Ranch Life

by Leona (Heathisforme)

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 days were getting longer and warmer with the coming of spring. The ranch was becoming more active, with round up and branding of the new cattle. Heath and Nick just arrived back from Modesto with a hundred heads of cattle, so they were to be busy for a while.

Janine was large with child and just as miserable. Nothing was going right for her. She found something wrong with everything she or Heath did. Heath hired some hands to help with the building of the new house. She was excited about that. She went over there a couple of times, complaining about this and that. Finally one of the hands complained to Heath about her, he nodded and said he would talk to her.

That night Heath talked to Janine about the house. She complained about the way the work was being done. Heath put his finger to her mouth and shushed her. “Let me handle it, Janey. Ya don’t worry your pretty little head none.”

“But Heath! I want to have a say in the building of the house, too!” exclaimed Janine

“Ya can. I will take ya over there myself. The hands are complaining that you’re disrupting them and I can’t watch ya and do the work on the ranch at the same time!”

“Heath Barkley! Since when do I need watching? You’re treating me like a child! I’m twenty-five, almost twenty-six!”

“Janine Marie Barkley,” he countered, “When ya start acting like an adult, I’ll treat ya like one! I realize that ya aren’t yourself right now, but you’re tryin’ my patience!” Janine knew she pushed the line when he called her by her full name.

“Sorry Heath. You’re right, of course.” The tears rolled down her cheeks. Heath wasn’t sure about this baby business. She changed moods fast and it was starting to take a toll on him, almost to the point where he didn’t want to be around her.

He drew her close to him, not knowing what else to do. “I’m sorry honey. I can’t say that I know how ya feel, but I can try to understand. Do ya wanna talk to me? If nothin’ else we can always talk, right?” She nodded, wiping her eyes, she looked at him.

“I know I haven’t been my usual self. My back hurts, I’m fat, I can’t do the things I want to because you tell me I can’t!” She lashed out at him, “I don’t like this. I want your baby, but I didn’t figure on all this other stuff. Don’t do this…Don’t do that…I’m about ready to burst from all the friendly advice!”

Heath didn’t say anything. He felt guilty but he thought he was helping. “I’m sorry, my pretty, I thought I was helpin’ ya!”

“Well ya aren’t!” Janine decided to get ready for bed. “I’m tired and my back hurts.”

Heath nodded, “I’m goin’ downstairs to talk to my family.” He helped her get undressed and get her nightclothes on. “You’re beautiful Janey. I love ya” He caressed her tummy, feeling the baby move. “That baby of ours is really movin’” he remarked. “I can’t wait to meet her.”

“I’m sorry I’m so grumpy Heath. I hate being like this.” She leaned against him. “If I knew having a baby was going to be like this, I may never have another one.” She winked at him. “I’ve been a pain, haven’t I?”

He nodded, “I know. Its just like when ya were laid up with your back. I hated being around ya then as well!”

She chuckled. “Well ya wanted to marry me!”

“I didn’t know ya were gonna be so mean!” He tucked her into bed. “I’ll be back in a while.”

She put her arms around him and drew him close. “G’night love. I’ll see ya soon. Just tell everyone I’m sorry that I won’t be joining them tonight.” Heath nodded. They kissed passionately, then he left, leaving the lamps on low.

Heath went into the billiard room where everyone was gathered for conversation and drinks. Jarrod and Nick were playing pool, Victoria and Audra were working on a sewing project. Heath poured himself a drink, and sat down to watch his dark haired brothers play. “I’ll play the winner,” challenged Heath. The men nodded and continued playing.

“How’s Janine?” asked Audra, concerned about her friend and sister-in-law.

“She’s tired and grumpy.” Replied Heath, sounding very tired himself.

“It’s hard for a woman when they are with child,” remarked Victoria. Putting down her sewing, she observed Heath. “I’m think its worse for the husband. Do you want to talk about it Heath?” The blond son shook his head. “If you or Janine need to talk please come to me.” Heath nodded.

A couple of games later, Heath decided it was time to go to bed. There was a lot of work to do, fences to mend, cows to brand and to herd. Work is never done in the summer. Nick and Jarrod decided it was time for them to go to bed as well.

Heath opened the door quietly, took off his boots, belt and clothes. He crawled into bed and snuggled with his wife, putting his arm over her waist. She moaned involuntarily in her sleep and moved closer. The baby moved then and Heath loved the feel of it. He couldn’t go to sleep, he had a lot on his mind. He thought about all the changes his life was going through and it seemed to be moving at a rapid pace.

His wife was a wonderful woman, always thinking of others, helping out when need be, but a little unsure of her self worth, and at times really moody. I suppose the baby makes her that way, he observed, but it’s gettin’ harder and harder to cope with the moods! Heath rubbed his hand over her belly and she turned over to face him, putting her arms around him. He chuckled quietly, knowing she was still sleeping, while she kissed his neck, and chest. He moaned , closing his eyes and returned the kisses. She may be moody, but she was his wife and he loved her deeply.

Two weeks later, Janine woke up early. She looked over at her sleeping husband and smiled. He was something special, putting up with her these days. She caressed his face and moved closer to him. He moaned and drew her closer, finding her lips with his eyes closed and kissing her. He opened one blue eye, and grinned. “G’mornin’!” he greeted her.

“G’mornin’!” She responded, kissing him fully awake. “It’s time to wake up sleepy head” he nodded, sitting up and wiping his eyes.

“Let’s go get some coffee and go for a short ride,” he suggested all ready getting dressed. She put her arms around her husband and hugged him tight.

“All right Heath.” She hurriedly dressed, brushed her hair and went downstairs for her cup of coffee. He had already gone out to the barn, by the time she had gotten ready.

“Mista Heath, he is out in da barn, He told me to tell ya.” related Silas.

“Thank ya Silas” She finished her coffee and went out to find her husband.

She strolled out to the barn only to find Heath hitching up the buggy. “Where we goin’ honey?”

“It’s a surprise,” was all Heath would say. By the time he got the buggy hitched and helped Janine up, the twilight was brightening the early morning. The birds started their morning songs, roosters crowed, the ranch was starting to wake up. They loved this time of morning. This was their quiet time. A time to reflect on the day before and plan their day ahead.

Heath was quiet as he drove the buggy through the morning dew. The only noise was the clip clop of the horse hooves and the breeze through the trees. Heath drove up to their property and stopped in front of their house. Janine looked at her husband in surprise. She knew it was close to being done, and all her complaining didn’t help speed matters up, but here it was. Heath jumped out of the buggy, going to the other side, helping Janine down.

“Heath? Is the house done?” Heath didn’t say anything, just took her hand and went to the door to the house, opening it. He let her in first and she gasped. It had been a week since she been to the house. The porch wrapped around the house with it finishing at the back door.

As she surveyed the room and was astonished at the workmanship that was put into it. The hardwood floors were made of varnished oak and the walls were tongue and groove cedar. There were two large bay windows in the parlor with thick red and gold velvet drapes. Heath had even furnished the living room with a Victorian style love seat and sofa. There was a large brown Victorian style chair in front of the fireplace. The fireplace was large with a huge mantel. On the mantel sat a large wooden clock.

She wandered into the dining room and found it furnished with a wooden oak table and chair set. She then went into the kitchen and found it to her satisfaction. Heath took her hand and went up the stairs to the second floor where the four bedrooms were. He opened the door to one of the rooms and it was furnished with baby furniture. There was a crib, and a dressing table.

She followed him into their bedroom and gasped. The room was large, with a bed with a beautiful headboard. There was a bureau to match the bed with a large mirror. The headboard was hand carved with swans making the curve of the headboard and in the middle was inscribed:

Heath and Janine Barkley

married Sept 25, 1882

Janine looked over the whole room with tears in her eyes. She turned to look at her husband, not knowing what to say. “It’s beautiful Heath” she managed to get out. There were no curtains on the French doors which he opened to show her the sunrise. They stood out on the little verandah, watching the sunrise, arms around each other, not saying a word.

After the sun rose high in the sky, Heath took her hand once again and gently led her out of the room. She opened another door, and found that it was the washroom, and it was just as beautiful as the rest of the house. She stopped in the hallway, and faced Heath. “I’m sorry I’ve been such a pain Heath. Ya did a great job on the house. I’m really really impressed!” She put her arms around her husband’s neck and kissed him deeply. “When can we move in?”

“The house is ready anytime we are, my pretty.” Janine pulled out of his arms and looked at him surprised.

“Really?”

“Really.” She was so happy that she kissed him again and again.

“Boy howdy Janey! If I knew you were goin’ to get this excited, I woulda done this ages ago.” He teased her. He enjoyed surprising her, anything to make her happy.

Janine smiled shyly at her husband. “Can we move in next week?” Heath nodded. “Thank you Heath, the house is beautiful!”

They went back to the big house, arriving just in time for breakfast. Janine sat at the table, while Heath dished up hers and his breakfast. He set it front of her and sat down to eat. The others were already eating when they arrived. They apologized for being late, Heath explaining to them that he took Janine to see the house.

Nick and Jarrod smiled at them. “It’s beautiful, isn’t it?” inquired Jarrod. Janine nodded, overwhelmed that her husband built the beautiful home.

“We went over and helped him on the weekends, Neen.” Nick interjected.

Janine glanced over at Heath, “you worked on the house on the weekends, and you didn’t tell me?” He nodded. “Of all the sneaky, underhanded things…” She swatted him on the arm.

“OW! JANEY!” He teased her while the others laughed at their bantering.

“When are you moving in, Janine?” asked Audra, interested in the new house.

“Next week! I’m so excited!” Everyone chuckled at her exuberance. “Heath, can we have horses?” He nodded. “Can we have a dog?” he nodded. Never in her life could she have pets, and now she could have whatever kind of pet she wanted.

“Come on Heath. Time’s a wastin’ we got some fencin’ to do today. This is a workin’ ranch ya know!” Heath nodded. Nick finished his breakfast, pushed back his plate, and stood up, throwing his linen napkin down on the table. He walked around the long table and put his hand on Victoria’s shoulder, kissing the top of her head. Victoria grasped his hand lovingly, watching as her middle son left the room.

Heath rose from the table, wiped his mouth with the napkin, putting it on his plate. He gave Victoria a dutiful kiss on the cheek, grasped his wife’s hand and left the room as well. They stood at the door talking, when the door opened. “Come on Heath, we don’t have all day, ya know!” The couple chuckled as the door closed.

“K. Heath. You’d better go, Nick will be belly achin’ soon about this bein’ a workin’ ranch.” Heath threw her a lopsided smile.

“Talk to ya later, honey. Won’t be back for lunch. Try to rest, k? I’ll see ya later at supper.” With that he kissed her and went out the door. She closed the door behind him and strolled back to the dining room to help clear off the table.

The brothers headed off to the west range where the fences were broken down from the branches of the trees had fallen. They had a storm a few days ago, and with all the work that was involved in running the ranch, they were just now getting to it.

There were large branches over the fence rails. The posts were broken in half, wires ripped off, it was a mess. They had the buckboard full of poles, wire and tools they needed for the work. The men jumped out of the wagon, setting themselves right to work. It took both of them to lift the heavy branches. After a few hours they had most of the branches moved off the fence and they started putting in the posts.

Heath held the post making sure it stayed in the hole while Nick pounded it in, then they both stamped around it, pounding the dirt in. They both stopped for a break, resting against the buckboard. They passed the canteen of water, back and forth, till their thirsts were quenched. They sat in comfortable silence, till Nick broke the silence.

“Goin’ to be movin’ soon, huh?” he said a little sadly.

“Yep” replied Heath, looking forward to it but a little melancholy. He was hesitant about moving, he had found this family, took a while to adjust, now he was leaving, just down the road a piece but he won’t be living in the huge house anymore.

Nick looked at Heath when he heard his blond haired brother sigh involuntarily. “you wanna talk about it, little brother?” Heath gave him a sideways glance and shook his head no. Nick pressed on, “You’re worried, aren’t ya?” He didn’t reply.

“Ya worried about the baby?” Heath shook his head. “My God, Heath! Its like pulling teeth to get an answer outta ya!” commented Nick, knowing that when he was ready, his younger brother would talk to him. “Okay, little brother, I’m here when you’re ready to talk. But I’m not leavin’ ya alone till ya do.” Nick was awarded that silly half grin of his. Nick slapped Heath on the leg with his hat, “Come on, Boy, we got work to do!”

They went back to work repairing two miles of fencing. Heath was deep in thought, wondering about the baby, actually wondering how he was going to be a good father, when he grew up without one. He loved children, sure enough, and the children loved him. He was easy going, and kind. But would he be strict enough when the time called for it or would he be too strict?

Nick watched his brother as he worked. He could always tell when something was bothering him as Heath always wore a faraway look, with no expression. He worked harder then ever, if that was possible, Heath was by far the hardest worker he had ever seen. He did the work of two men and more when something was bothering him, like today. Nick wanted to shake him, make him talk but from experience, he knew that wasn’t going to work. No, he thought, Heath will just have to talk and soon. That boy is goin’ to drive himself crazy keepin’ it all in!

Heath wiped the sweat off his brow. He had worked hard, working out all his anxiety on the fencing. He watched his older brother work, wanting to talk to him, but not knowing where to start. He was worried about a lot of things but mostly being a good father. He pulled the wire taut and secured it on the pole. They moved to the next length of fencing, took the branches off, and replaced the poles.

“Nick?”

“Yeah?” Nick watched his brother curiously. Was he going to talk to him? Was he going to confide in him and would he be able to calm some emotions that certainly stirring up in him?

“I’m nervous about the baby comin’.” Nick nodded and put the shovel down that he was using to dig the new post hole. He put his arm around Heath’s shoulders and sat him down. Heath poured out his feelings to Nick, with Nick nodding his head, not saying a word. “I’m worried that I won’t be a good father. I’m worried about all the responsibility that comes with it.”

“Ya know, Heath, old boy, you worry too much! You’ll make a good father! You’re really good with kids, ya can get down to their level and ya understand them I seen ya with the orphans. Yep, you’ll make a great papa! Does Janine know all this?” Heath shook his head. “I think you’d better tell her. Janine may be just as worried as you are.”

Heath was startled to hear this. Janine nervous? Well boy howdy! Sometimes I can be an empty headed fool! “Nick, sometimes you amaze me! I’ve been too busy thinkin’ of myself. I guess I never considered her feelin’s. I think I’ll do somethin’ special and talk to her. Boy howdy!”

Nick chuckled, “You’re somethin’ else little brother! You’re somethin’ else!” Nick patted his brother on the back “Lets finish this section of fence and call it a day” Heath nodded, he wanted to go home and see his wife.

Janine and Audra set to packing some of Heath’s and her things. Janine’s back was getting sore from sitting so long. She stood up and stretched. “I can’t wait till this baby is born.” She complained.

“I can’t wait till I see my niece or nephew! Do you have names picked out?” Audra was so excited. “I bought some outfits for him or her!” Audra paused for a breath. “Janine what’s wrong?”

Janine had tears streaming down her face. “I’m worried. I hope I can be a good mama.” Audra hugged her friend. “You’ll do fine, Janine. I don’t know how you feel, but I think I can understand. Just think you’re having a baby! Heath’s baby! This should be the happiest time of your life. Now take me. I’m getting married after you have the baby. I’m petrified!” Janine glanced at her friend to make sure she wasn’t joking. Audra was shaking at the very mention of marriage.

“Audra, you’re sure about getting married to David aren’t ya?” Audra shrugged her shoulders. “Audra, if you’re not sure, why are ya even considering marriage? Ya have to be absolutely sure. This is a lifetime arrangement, no turning back!” Janine got up and shut the door. She sat back on the bed, and said to her sister-in-law, “talk to me. My problem won’t go away. But we need to talk about yours!”

Audra looked at Janine with tear-filled eyes. “I don’t know how to back out of it Janey!”

“Ya just talk to him. The words will come. Honest. I don’t want you to wait ten years like I did to do something about your marriage and end up like me! You need to do something about it NOW!” Audra nodded. She had forgotten about Janine’s first marriage, and thought about it.

“Why did you stay with your first husband so long?”

Janine sat back and pondered the question. “I don’t really know Audra. I thought once you were married, you were married forever, good or bad! No one told me that you’re husband was supposed to be nice and not hit you. I had no one to talk to, never had a sister to talk these things over. I just want you to know, that I’m always here, even when we move to the new house!” Audra smiled. “But I want you to talk to David and tell him how you feel. Saves a lot of heart ache in the future.” They hugged each other when the door opened and they heard a masculine groan.

“Boy howdy you two! Every time I open this door, you two women are always talkin’ and cryin’! I’m not about to start knockin’ on my own door!” The women looked at each other and laughed at the confused look on the cowboy’s face.

“Sorry Heath. I’ll leave if you want. Thanks Janine, I needed that today. I’ll help you tomorrow, ok?”

“Sure Audra. Anytime. It’s kinda nice to have a sister to talk to!”

“Yeah it sure is. Beats having three annoying brothers! See you at supper!” Heath looked at his sister retreating out the door. Janine pushed the box out of the way and rose off the bed. She walked over to her husband, putting her arms around him, while he cleaned up. She kissed the scars on his back and then laid her head against him.

“I missed you Heath” she hugged him tightly. He finished up and turned around so he could face her.

“How would you like to go out for supper tonight?” Janine looked at him with her large emerald eyes.

She nodded, surprised and said quietly “We can have a good talk too.”

He nodded, “that’s what I had in mind, sweetheart.” He put his arms around her waist and pulled her tight. “Put on your prettiest dress. We’ll make this a special night.” He kissed her deeply and passionately, parting her lips with his tongue. She responded in kind and moaned. “I love you”

“I love you, my pretty.” They kissed and caressed in silence with the occasional moan from each of them. Janine pulled away and looked deep into his blue eyes, seeing all the love he had for her. She took his hand, leading him to their bed. She laid on her side and patted the bed beside her. He lied down, wrapping his arms around her. He moaned when she started to press kisses on his neck and chest. “Janey,” he moaned.

She giggled, “Love me Heath. It’s been a long time” Heath nodded, passion filling both of them.

After a while, they dressed and got ready for their supper date. They had a lot to talk about, the baby, the house and the move. They walked hand in hand down the stairs and saw that everyone was waiting for supper. “Sorry Mother, Janine and I are going into town for supper.” Victoria nodded, Nick grinned, Audra and Jarrod smiled.

“Okay dears. You two deserve a night out together, once the baby comes, you won’t be able to go out alone too much.” Victoria admitted to them. The young couple looked at each other, one more thing they hadn’t considered!

“Sorry Mother, we never told ya earlier, it was a quick decision.” Heath looked apologetic.

“It’s okay Son. You go have a good night. We’ll talk later.” Janine hugged Victoria, and told her they wouldn’t be too late. Heath gave Victoria a kiss on the cheek.

“G’night everyone!” Heath took his wife’s hand and left the room, opening the door for her.

They rode in comfortable silence to town, each lost in their own thoughts. Janine wanted to tell Heath about how nervous she was about the baby. She was excited about the house, wanting him to know how much she appreciated the hard work he had put into building it. She was excited about having animals, a garden, an orchard. She had a lot of plans! She sighed a satisfied sigh, loving her life with her husband.

Heath was looking forward to this supper date with his wife. It was a spur of the moment thing, but he was glad he thought of it. They had so many things to discuss, the move, the baby. That baby who was making him nervous and it wasn’t even born yet. He put his hand on hers, holding it tightly. She smiled a shy smile at him, loving the feel of his hand on hers.

They pulled up to a stop in front of Griffins. A new and fancy restaurant that had just opened up. Heath helped his wife out of the buggy, and went into the fancy building. They found a table by the window and sat down, waiting to be served. The waitress came by and took their orders, bringing them a bottle of champagne that Heath asked for.

“Remember on our honeymoon, when we went to the saloon and got drunk?” asked Janine.

“Who got drunk?” teased Heath.

“Ya did” countered Janine, smiling.

“If I remember correctly, my pretty, it was you!” They both chuckled.

“It was both of us, my dear and ya know it!”

“Yeah you’re right, Janey. As always” Heath grasped her hand over the table and held it, rubbing her wedding ring. “ya know, one of the happiest days of my life was when I married ya.” Janine smiled at him, “the other happy day is the day ya told me that we were goin’ to be parents.” Janine remembered that day. It was near Christmas, a special gift for both of them. “A lot of changes’ll be happenin’ after the baby is born.”

“Yeah I know, Heath. I’ve been thinkin’ about all the things we won’t be able to do, or can do, we just have to include a third person.” Heath nodded. “You know Heath, I know it’s a little late to have doubts, but, wow! I have a lot of doubts about being a mama!” She was relieved she finally got it out. At that point, their food arrived, and they commenced eating. In between bites, they continued talking. “You know, doubts like, will I be a good mama? Will I be able to handle all the responsibility? What if he gets sick and I can’t help him?” Heath gave her a faint smile.

“You know what Janey?”

“What?”

“I have had those same doubts too. I never grew up with a father. So I don’t have anyone to compare myself too. I have been dreading the baby because I don’t know if I’ll be a good father.” He hung his head as he said this.

Janine grasped his large masculine hand and held it in her petite, small one. “Heath look at me!” He lifted his head and looked in her eyes. “You will make a great father! You are wonderful with children and they just love you. You’ll be playing with them, teaching them things like how to ride, how to play, how to work.” Heath nodded. “Our baby was created by our love and will be raised the same way.” She finished.

“Let’s go now, Janey.” He wanted to say more, but he wanted privacy to say what he wanted to say. She nodded and he paid their bill. They walked out of the restaurant, and into the buggy. They drove towards the ranch, taking a different road when they reached the property line. They were going towards their home.

Heath pulled up close to the house and helped Janine down. He lit a lamp and set it on the railing of the porch. He picked Janine up and carried her over the threshold. “Oh Heath, you silly goose!” she laughed. “I wanted to thank you for this beautiful house honey. I been such a grouch lately, I’m sorry. Nothing seemed right. I wanted to help but instead of helping, I was a hindrance.”

“Hey I understand, Janey. It must be hard to carry our baby, if I could, I would carry it for ya but since that seems to be out of the question, I guess I can bare the grumping for a little while longer. But promise me something Janey.”

“What’s that Heath?”

“Do you promise to be back to normal once the baby is born? Please?” Janine laughed loudly at the look at his face.

“I can’t promise that! But I can promise I will try!” She leaned over to kiss him.

They turned on some lamps and she looked around the luxurious living room. “Where did ya find time to do all of this?” She asked curiously.

Heath observed her as she looked about the room, touching this, touching that, “Well honey, I told ya I had to go to town for supplies a few times, I told ya I was workin’ fencin’. Well I did both, just didn’t tell ya what fence or what supplies!” Janine turned around, and grinned at him.

“You’re sneaky, ya know? She sat down on the sofa, enjoying the new feel of it.

“Yeah, I know.”

“I never had anything brand new. This is nice.” Heath sat down beside her. He took her hand in his and kissed it.

“I promised ya a better life then you had Janey. I hope ya like it.”

“I love it and you Heath. I don’t deserve all this! I’m so overwhelmed you’d do all this for me!”

“Ya deserve all of this and more, my pretty! You’re bringin’ our baby into this world, we’re goin’ to raise it here. We’ll teach her about life, love, happiness, our values. We’ll be the best parents in the whole world!” Janine smiled when Heath announced all of this, he generally didn’t say a lot, but when he did, one did well to listen.

“I wanna move in today, now, but we still have all of our things at the house. I have some packed, plus some in the attic that I brought over from the cabin.”

Heath nodded, “We can start bringing over some things tomorrow afternoon. I’m looking forward to having you all to myself!” He nuzzled her neck as he was speaking. “Ya do know how to cook, don’t ya?” He said seriously, with a twinkle in his eye.

“Heath Barkley! Who cooked on our honeymoon? HUH?”

“I did!”

“Yeah right!” Janine picked up a cushion off the couch and threw it at her handsome husband. “Ya better think again, Cowboy!” They played a while, then got serious. “I can’t wait till we are in here Heath!” she said quietly.

“Me neither, Janey, my pretty. Me neither!”

A while later, they decided to head back to the main ranch, since Heath had to work in the morning. Janine needed her rest, her legs felt weak, and with the extra weight of the baby, she tended to fall down a little more often. Before they left the house, they promised each other that they would take time each night to talk about things that were important.

A few days later, they were packed up their things and moved into their house. All of the Barkleys helped with the moving, as Janine couldn’t lift too much and was having a little difficulty walking now. She was in constant pain but didn’t complain, Heath gave her questioning looks when she grunted quietly and sat down. Victoria brought over some dinner for them all to have so that Janine could rest. The men put the crates down in one of the spare rooms so it was out of the way, they would be unpacked later at their leisure.

Victoria and Audra exclaimed over the beauty of the house as Heath took them through it. They were as impressed as Janine was over the details of the workmanship that Heath put in the house. All the details were his alone and wouldn’t let anyone else help him with it. Jarrod and Nick stood around drinking coffee, talking to Janine.

“Well Neen,” started Nick, sipping his coffee, “Guess we won’t be having too many games with ya. I’ll miss them. Ya still owe me.” Nick winked at her.

Janine teased back, “We’ll still be coming over on Sundays, brother Nick, and you can TRY to beat me then.”

“I’ll do more then just try Sis! I will do it!” The three of them laughed at this remark.

“Don’t you owe me money from last night, Nicky?” She informed him. “I believe it was five dollars.”

Nick looked disgusted. “I paid ya!” He was giving Janine a look when he glanced at her face and saw her smile.

“Gotcha!” Jarrod laughed at the two of them. She was going to be missed by all of them, she made quite an impression.

“Oh you two! I’ll say one thing, Janine, it’s going to be quiet without you two always at each other’s throats! Whatever will you do?” Nick and Janine looked at each other and laughed. Whatever will we do? They both pondered that question.

Soon it was time for the others to leave, it was getting late. Audra promised to come over in a few days so they could have a visit. “Good Audra. I’m gonna miss our talks.” Audra hugged her friend, then they all left, leaving the couple alone in their new house.

“Alone at last” stated Janine. She sat down and groaned. Heath gave her a sideways glance, sitting down beside her, he pulled her into his arms.

“Yep. Back’s been botherin’ you, hasn’t it Janey?” She nodded as tears came to her eyes. He hugged her gently, “Do you think we need to get Dr. Merar?”

She shook her head no, “not yet. If we do, I’ll have to stay in bed. I’m not ready for that yet.”

As Heath held her, he told her, “You just take it easy. Don’t worry about unpackin’ anythin’. We can unpack as we need to. I will take our clothes upstairs and put them away. Tomorrow. Not tonight. We did enough for one day.” She leaned against him, loving the feel of his powerful arms holding her tight. He kissed the back of her neck, making her sigh in contentment.

“It’s late honey, maybe we should get ready for bed.” She grinned mischievously at him. He was tired, but he wasn’t ready for bed yet. He got up, untangling himself from her, and poured himself a drink. He brought her a drink as well.

“Let’s have a toast to our new house.” He held up the glass to hers. “To new beginnings!”

“To new beginnings,” echoed Janine losing herself in his eyes. They drank the sherry, Janine rose awkwardly from the sofa and grasped her husband’s hand. “Let’s go to bed.” Heath put his glass down on the coffee table, following his wife up the stairs.

They laid in that beautiful bed for a while, holding each other, kissing, caressing. Soon sleep overtook them and they fell into a deep slumber.

The next morning, he woke up to his wife moaning and groaning. He opened one eye and observed his wife bent over, crying.

“honey, what’s wrong?” Heath sat up in bed, concerned. He moved closer to her, trying to ease the pain in some way.

“I don’t know honey, but somethin’ isn’t right! Get Victoria and the doctor!” Janine told him between sobs, Heath dressed quickly.

“I’ll be back soon. I hate to leave ya, Janey, but I’ll send someone for the doctor and bring back Mother. Be back real soon!”

“Hurry Heath!” He nodded, laid her back on the bed and left quickly for the ranch house. He was worried, Janine was pale, and in pain. He didn’t know what to do, but he knew it was much to early for the baby. Almost two months too early.

He rode the twenty minute ride quickly. He slammed the door to the house, yelling, “Mother! Mother!” Victoria came running out at Heath’s bellow. There was an urgency to his yell. He hugged her, telling her, “come quickly, something is wrong with Janine!” The others came running out after her and Jarrod said he would go for the doctor. Heath nodded and raced back to Janine, hoping all was right with her.

He raced in the house and up the stairs. Janine was lying on the bed, crying, the pain unbearable. As he held her in his arms, Victoria and Audra came up after him, observing the couple. Janine looked to them, pleading for them to help her. “It hurts so bad, Victoria! Help me!”

“Okay, Janine. First thing we need to do is to relax. Jarrod went for the doctor, so we have to make do till he gets here. Let me look and see what’s going on.” She made a check of Janine and realized that she was in labour. “Well Janine, it looks like this baby wants to be born now! Are you ready for this?” Janine shook her head no.

Heath looked at Victoria incredulously, the baby was to be born now? He voiced his fears to Victoria. “Are you sure Mother?” She nodded yes and it would be anytime. It looked like she had been in labour for a while now.

“Why don’t you go downstairs? Nick came with us, and I think he wants to know what’s going on. You’ll do Janine a lot more good if you are out of the way.”

“But Mother, I need to be with her! She needs me!”

Victoria observed Heath with concern and interest. “Son” she told him firmly, “Janine needs you to be calm. I know this is totally unexpected, but you need to go downstairs and wait. I’m sorry but its better this way.”

“Heath?” He went over to her side and grasped her hand.

“Yeah my pretty?” He pushed a piece of strawberry blonde hair out of her eyes.

“Go downstairs and wait for the doctor. Victoria and Audra will look after me. I’ll be okay.” She had tears in her eyes but she refused to let them fall.

“Are ya sure Janey? Ya don’t want me to stay?” She shook her head no. “You let them know if ya need me, k?” Janine had another burst of pain, contractions she knew now. She nodded and shooed him out of the room.

Heath walked slowly down the wooden staircase, looking over his shoulder at the bedroom. Nick watched him as he descended the stairs. He put his arm around Heath’s shaking shoulders and guided him towards the sofa. He sat his brother down, and poured him a drink. Heath took it gratefully, holding it in his shaking hands. He downed the drink, setting the glass down on the coffee table. He put his hands to his face and sobbed. Nick held his brother while the sobs intensified then weakened as Heath gave way to his pain.

Jarrod entered the room with the doctor and Nick pointed up the stairs. Jarrod and Dr. Merar climbed the stairs and disappeared into the room where Janine lay. Jarrod came down the stairs a little while later and told the brothers that it wouldn’t be long now till the baby was born. Heath looked at both of his brothers with his tear stained face, and gratefully accepted another drink from Nick.

“Heath, everything will be all right. She is doing great, Mother says.” Jarrod looked at his brother and put his arm around him.

Heath nodded “I wish I could be up there!”

“I know. But its not the man’s place to be there when there is a baby being born.”

“But its too early Jarrod! Much too early!” Jarrod nodded, and held his shaking brother.

“It’ll be okay, Heath. Trust your big brother!” Heath nodded.

Soon they heard a scream coming from upstairs. Heath was up on his feet in a minute, scared that something was wrong. Jarrod and Nick put their hands on his shoulders and set him back down. “Won’t be long now, Heath” Heath nodded, “I can’t stand her being in so much pain!” He groaned. The brothers reassured him that it was normal. Another scream came from the bedroom, and all was quiet.

After a long while, they heard another sound. It was the sound of a baby’s cry coming from above, The brothers watched in amusement as Heath ran up the stairs, two at a time at the sound. He threw open the door and there was his wife, sitting up, and smiling.

“Heath!” she exclaimed opening her arms up to him. He fell into her arms gently, hugging and kissing her.

“Are ya okay Janey? I was so worried!” He looked intently at her.

“I’m fine. I will be laid up in bed for a while because of my stupid back, I sprained it somehow. But we have a baby now.”

Victoria placed the baby into his arms, smiling at the couple. “here is your baby girl, Heath. She looks just like you” Heath held the little bundle with care, amazed that she was so little.

“She’s beautiful, Janey!” Janine nodded, “but so tiny. Will she be all right doctor?”

The doctor observed the couple, “I won’t lie to you, the baby will need a lot of care for the first little while. She is little, but she has strong lungs. I will be back once a week to check on her. But with a lot of love, and a lot of caring, I think she will be just fine.”

“Thank you Doctor.” Dr. Merar smiled at the couple, took Victoria by the arm and led her down the stairs. Audra was cleaning up the room and quietly left when she was done. The couple didn’t even hear her leave. They were too busy examining the fingers and toes of their new baby.

“What are we goin’ to name her?” questioned Heath. “We plum forgot names.”

:I know honey, but I have a name all picked out. How does this sound? Leah Victoria?” Heath looked at his wife, lying there, holding their baby, watching his expression.

His eyes filled with tears as he replied, “That’s beautiful, Janey. Simply beautiful.”

“Let’s find some clothes to dress her with and introduce her to the family.” Heath looked in the chest at the end of the bed. He pulled out a small white dress with booties. “That’s fine Heath.” Together they dressed little Leah and when they were done, Heath picked her up carefully, taking her downstairs.

“Be right back my pretty,” he told her. She nodded and closed her eyes. She was a mama!

Heath walked down the stairs with his baby daughter, talking quietly to her and bringing her to his face so he could kiss her. His family looked at them in awe, he was radiating in love for his baby and his wife.

“Mother, would you like to hold Leah Victoria?” He gave the baby to her gingerly as tears filled her eyes.

“What a beautiful name for a beautiful baby!” They all gathered around her, cooing at the baby.

“I wanna hold my niece,” said an impatient Nick. Victoria handed her over to her middle child, and watched as Leah spoke to him. “Hey she likes me,” marvelled Nick. Everyone laughed at his remark. Reluctantly he handed the baby over to Audra.

“She is simply beautiful, Heath. Congratulations Big Brother. I’m so happy for the both of you.” She held the baby for a few minutes and handed her over to Jarrod.

“Well, hello, Precious. I’m your Uncle Jarrod, and I’m going to spoil you terribly.” He held the baby with such care and grace, one would have thought she was his own. She woke up then and stuck her fist in her mouth. “I think she’s hungry Heath. Better take her back to her mama.” He handed the baby back to her father.

“Thank ya for being here, and helping bring Leah into the world.”

“That’s what families are for, Heath. That’s what families are for. We will leave you now, and come back tomorrow. You’ll be okay?” Victoria asked in motherly concern.

“Yes mother, thank you. See ya tomorrow.” The family nodded and watched as Heath spoke quietly to his newborn daughter who was eagerly awaiting her supper. Victoria smiled, rounding up her grown up children and went home.

Heath handed the baby back to Janine and watched as she nursed. “I love you Janey.” Blurted Heath, full of emotion. Janine smiled at her sensitive husband.

“I love you too, Heath. Isn’t she beautiful? She is so small and we have to be careful with her for a while…but she is beautiful!” Heath took his boots off and crawled into bed with her. The baby fell back asleep while her parents watched her. Heath got up and went to the baby’s room, bringing back the cradle. He placed a kiss on Leah’s cheek, and put her in it.

He crawled back into bed with her and pulled her close. “You did good, honey. How is your back?” She snuggled into his arms and put hers around his neck.

“Its very sore. Dr. Merar said it was sprained from carryin’ the baby and all the walkin’ in the last few days. He figures that is why I delivered so soon. Too much strain. But she looks fine, doesn’t she?” Heath nodded and placed a soft kiss on her lips.

“I was scared Janey. Real scared. I wanted to be here with ya. But Nick and Jarrod kept me downstairs.” She smiled and pulled him closer, kissing his cheek softly. He moaned. “What a way to start our new life in our new house!” he chuckled and nuzzled her cheek.

“Doc says I have to stay in bed for a couple of weeks.” They were kissing each other softly as they talked.

“I’ll get Audra to come stay with ya during the day so that you won’t be doing anything ya aren’t supposed to be doing.” He teased her.

“K Heath. Whatever ya think is best.” She closed her eyes and fell asleep. Heath watched her sleep and kissed her lightly. He turned on his back, put his arms behind his head and fell asleep. She snuggled closer and placed her head on his chest. They slept that way until the baby woke them up a couple of hours later, wanting to be fed and changed.

Two weeks later, Janine was feeding Leah when Audra came in with her crocheting. “G’morning Janine.”

“G’mornin’ Audra” she replied, sitting Leah up and burping her. “How are ya today?”

“I’m fine. Got something to tell you but I’ll wait till after Heath leaves.” Janine nodded, giving the baby to her.

“He’s still here? I thought he left.”

“No, he’s getting some breakfast.” this made Janine angry. She wanted to be up and making breakfast. She hated being stuck in bed. She punched the bed and the tears rolled down her cheeks.

“What’s the matter, Janine?” She couldn’t say anything, she was sobbing so hard. Audra left the room in search of her brother, to tell him about Janine.

Heath came in the door, and sat on the side of the bed. He went to hold her hand, but she just glared at him, and turned the other way. “Are you mad at me Janey?” He asked hesitantly.

She shook her head. She couldn’t stop the tears from flowing. “Heath, everything is so wrong. Ya shouldn’t be cooking yourself meals. I should be doing that. I should be taking care of you and Leah. I want out of this bed!” Heath took her hand and kissed it.

“Its not your fault honey. Now calm down. Ya know ya can’t leave this bed until Dr. Merar says ya can. Please Janey!” He was pleading with her. “I gotta go now. Don’t give Audra a hard time, k?” She nodded, tears still streaming down her face, she just couldn’t stop sobbing. Heath hated leaving her this way. “I’ll cook us somethin’ special tonight, k? I can cook ya know!” This brought a smile to her lips.

“No ya can’t!” she said to him. She held out her arms and he went to her willingly.

“Please don’t cry anymore, Janey. It’ll be okay. I love ya and we’ll be normal soon. Dr. Merar comin’ today?” She nodded. “Ya can ask him when ya can get out of bed and start bein’ a wife!” She giggled.

“K Heath. I’m sorry. Seems like I’m always apologizin’.” She grinned. “I love ya. Now go to work. I’ll be all right now.” She placed a kiss on his nose. He smiled at her, standing up.

“Are ya sure ya gonna be ok?” He felt better when she smiled and nodded. “Okay I’m not gonna worry ‘bout ya. Love ya.” He kissed her softly.

“Love ya too Cowboy. Have a good day! See ya later.” He looked back at her as he left the room, half waved at her and descended the stairs.

Audra came in a while later, carrying Leah, followed by the family doctor. “She is such a quiet baby, Janine.” Janine nodded. “Oh Dr. Merar is here to see you. I just wanted to put Leah to bed, she is sleeping. Do you want some breakfast?” Janine nodded. “Okay, I’ll go see what Heath cooked and bring you some. Be back in a bit.”

“Good Morning, Janine.” He pulled out his stethoscope and checked her heart, lungs. He had her sit up so he could check her back. “Guess what? I think you may be able to sit up in a chair today!” He announced. “You can start taking a few steps but I don’t want ya to over do it. You hear me?”

“Yes Doctor, I hear ya. Does this mean I can go downstairs?”

The kindly doctor nodded, “Your back wasn’t sprained as I had originally thought. Just very sore from carrying the baby. You can’t carry the baby around too much though, you make sure you are sitting down when holding her. All right?” Janine nodded, understanding. “Leah is doing fine, she is growing very well and doesn’t seem to have any problems yet. We can’t stop worrying though. She is still quite small, but she is gaining weight and that’s always a good sign. Babies born early like she was have a high mortality rate. You are very lucky.” He packed up his black bag. “I’ll be back in a few days to check on you and Leah. You take it easy and don’t overdo, okay?”

“Thank you Doc. I’ll be careful. I don’t wanna end up here again!” She got up, and grabbed the cane which was lying beside the bed. Dr. Merar helped her up and steadied her. “I just want to sit in the chair by the doors, Doc” He helped her over there.

“Now, young lady, don’t do a whole lot today. Sit here for a while, then go back and lay down. I don’t want to have to come back before I plan to!” Janine nodded.

The doctor left the room just as Audra was bringing in Janine’s breakfast which consisted of potatoes, ham, scrambled eggs, a glass of milk and coffee. Janine’s mouth watered, “Heath made this?”

Audra nodded, “Well most of it, I had to make the eggs, as apparently he ate all that he made.” Janine smiled, that man really did know how to cook!

Janine ate in the chair, chatting with Audra between bites, “So you had somethin’ to tell me?” Leah started crying right at that moment. Audra nodded and went to pick her up.

“I talked to David last night.” she said as she handed Leah over to her mother.

“And?” She put Leah up to her breast and nursed her.

“And we had a long talk. I guess he had been feeling the same way and we decided not to get married. I feel so relieved Janey!” Audra watched the baby nurse, deep in thought. “The whole relationship went too fast, and I was scared. He only wanted to get married so he could get close to me! You were right Janine, men can be pigs!” They giggled at that. “But I’m glad I made this decision. I feel so much better!”

“I understand. I tell ya. When I married Gary, that was a mistake. I was fifteen, the whole thing went too fast, but I was just too young to listen to anybody. That was the biggest mistake I ever made! I’m so glad I got outta that marriage. That’s why I wanted you to slow down.” Janine admitted to her blonde friend. “But then again, meeting Heath, it went too fast as well. But I admit this time I think I made a good choice! We hardly ever fight. It seems like I’m always apologizin’ to him. I been horribly mean to him.”

“He doesn’t say anything to us about your relationship. Maybe he talks to Nick and Jarrod, but he sure doesn’t say anything to me!”

“Well that’s Heath for ya. He only says what he has to, but at least he thinks before he speaks. You gotta love his voice, though.” Janine was thinking about her husband and smiling.

“Janine, I think I’ll take Leah and put her to bed, since she seems to be sleeping. Is there anything you want me to do today? I’ll do the dishes, and clean up a little.” Janine reluctantly gave her daughter to Audra.

“Can you help me back to bed? I think I want a nap for an hour or so. When you’re done downstairs, bring up your crocheting and we can talk again.” Audra put Leah in her cradle, and helped Janine back in her bed. “Thanks Audra, you’re a good friend”

“As are you!” replied Audra, sincerely. “If you need anything just holler. I think Heath said he would be back at lunch, so I’ll see what I can find for him to eat if he’ll eat it. He doesn’t complain about my cooking not like Nick.” They laughed at the thought of Nick and the openness of his opinions. He wasn’t one to keep quiet.

Janine woke up a little while later when she felt the bed move with added weight. She rolled over when she felt strong hands pull her onto her back. She kept her eyes shut even when she felt soft kisses on her cheeks, chin and finally on her lips. She opened her eyes and found herself staring into those beautiful blue eyes of her husband’s. She smiled, wrapping her arms around his neck and drew him closer. She wasn’t quite awake yet so she let Heath wake her up with his insistent kisses. She smiled and moaned, “Heath!” When she was fully awake and aware of her surroundings, she looked for Leah. “Where’s Leah?”

“I asked Audra to take her home for a while, that I would take care of you.” He stared lovingly into her emerald eyes.

She wrapped her arms around him again, drawing him closer, “I love the way you take care of me, Heath.” They explored each other, a touch here, a touch there. After a while, their passions spent, Heath got dressed and helped Janine dress. He then picked her up and brought her downstairs.

“How come ya home, Heath?” she asked as he tucked her onto the settee.

“Decided you needed me worse then them cows.” He chuckled, “besides I wanted a day off. I think I’m entitled once in a while, don’t ya think?” She grinned at him, slapping him on the arm.

“Ya better not be using me as an excuse, Mr. Barkley!” She told him with a twinkle in her eye, “But if ya are, then this better be the last time!”

“I forgot to tell ya, I sent a wire to your folks, telling them of Leah’s birth.” Janine gaped at her husband, then nodded.

“Ya are so considerate, Heath. I plum forgot about informing them. I’m a bad, bad daughter! But you are a good son-in-law!”

“Not so perfect anymore are ya?” Heath teased her. “Do ya want some lunch? I’m gonna make some sandwiches and warm up some soup.”

She nodded settling back on the settee, waiting for Audra to bring back Leah, so she could be fed again.

About a month later, Janine was getting better, her back still afflicted her but the pain lessened as time went on. She felt like a housewife now, and Audra only came once a week to visit. Heath helped out on weekends with the heavier chores such as sending the washing out to the laundress.

He loved his daughter and it showed. He helped with Leah who was now just over a month old, playing with her, feeding her, and changing her diapers. He wasn’t shy about showering her with his love. Whenever he was around the yard, he took her out with him, setting her in a bassinet beside him where ever he was.

Their little homestead was growing now also. Now that Janine was better, they had planted a garden, with all the vegetables they needed. Heath made a paddock for the horses he brought from the main ranch, breaking them and training them, then taking them back to be sold. They also had chickens, a milk cow, a dog and a cat. Janine ordered some fruit trees for the back yard, she wanted to make an orchard and expand their property. The winding river that ran through their homestead was their picnic ground. Heath had built a cooking pit, a table and often invited the other Barkleys and their friends for get togethers.

Janine was putting Leah down for a nap when there was a knock on the door. She opened it and there stood a woman, she had never seen before. She was dressed in the most beautiful dress she had ever seen, it was red with golden lace around the collar, cuffs and hem. She wore a pink stole which was wrapped around her shoulders. “Does Heath Barkley live here?” the lady in red asked her.

“Yes. But he is out on the range today. Can I help you? I’m his wife.” She put the emphasis on wife. The woman gaped at her, knowingly and licked her lips. They were the brightest red she had ever seen. Even the hat she wore on her head was loud. Janine didn’t like this woman. Not one bit.

“No, I just came to return something of his, that he left at the saloon.” She held out his pocket watch. Heath was looking for it just this morning. He had gone to the saloon with his brothers the night before, came home slightly drunk, but Janine just tucked him in and laughed at his antics. He didn’t go out that often, and Janine felt he needed to cut loose with his brothers.

“Well thank you Miss….Miss”

“Melissa Parkins, Mrs. Barkley. My friends call me Missy.” Janine was shocked. This was the woman Heath had told her about. The one he was going to marry. She knew she was a saloon girl, but he didn’t mention that she was beautiful.

Missy smiled when she saw the expression on her face. This is going to be good, she thought. My plan will work out and I can have him to myself.

“Thank you Miss Parkins. I will tell Heath you returned his watch. He will be happy he has it back.” Janine tried to close the door, but Missy put her hand on the door and stared intently at her.

“You married him, Mrs. Barkley, but he still loves me! he told me so last night.” She sounded convincing, but Janine wouldn’t believe it.

“You lie!” She tried to shut the door, but Missy barged in.

“Oh but I’m not. I have heard all about you. About your first husband and how he was so mean to you. How you were going to divorce him. I heard about your little accident. How do you know it was an accident? Maybe you got hurt on purpose so you could keep your husband from straying like your first husband?” Janine was seething.

“GET OUT YOU BITCH! DON’T YOU EVER COME BACK HERE AGAIN!” Janine pushed the woman towards the door. “IF YOU DARE SHOW YOUR FACE AROUND HERE AGAIN, YOU WILL BE LOOKING AT THE BUSINESS END OF A RIFLE. NOW GET OUT!"

“Now, now Mrs. Barkley. There is no cause for such behaviour. I’m leaving now but I want you to know. I’m going to have your husband and I won’t stop at nothing to get him!” Janine slapped her face as hard as she could and opened the door, pushing the rude woman out.

“GET AWAY FROM HERE! I DON’T WANT YOU NEAR MY HUSBAND OR THIS HOUSE AGAIN! I MEAN IT!” Missy got into the buggy she arrived in, laughing, wickedly at the bewildered woman.

“I’ll be back MRS. BARKLEY, then we’ll see who’s the better woman. You or me!” She flicked the reins and drove off. Janine went back into the house and shut the door, quietly so as not to wake Leah. She leaned up against the door and cried. She didn’t know what to do. She held the watch in her hands, it was the one she gave him at Christmas. She read what was inscribed on it:

To Heath,

my love, my life,

I love you always,

your pretty,

Janine

She closed the watch and put it on the coffee table and went to make supper. Heath would be home soon.

Heath came home, tired, dirty and hungry. She went to him and kissed him lightly, telling him that supper would be ready when he cleaned up. He took his hat off hanging it on the rack by the door. How he loved coming home to her. She always had a kind word, always had a smile for him when he walked in the door. He walked up the stairs to have a bath, smelling the air as he went by the kitchen. Mmmmmmm…apple pie, ham, he thought as he licked his lips and his stomach growled.

A half hour later, he came down, refreshed and clean. His stomach growled loudly as he approached the kitchen. Janine was just putting the supper in serving dishes and was setting them on the table. Heath went over to the cradle and picked up Leah. Leah smiled at her papa and gurgled. He picked up the bottle and fed her while Janine was finishing supper. “Come get it Heath, its ready!” She told him.

Heath and Leah wandered to the table and sat down. Janine took Leah while Heath dished his supper up. “How was your day, Honey?” she asked.

“Good. We got those fences mended and the stray cattle rounded up. Now maybe they’ll stay in one pasture for a day. They sure like to bust fences. It seems like we are always fixing them.” Janine nodded, only half listening. She was trying to eat and feed Leah at the same time. “How was your day?”

“Not too bad. Leah kept me busy all day. I never knew looking after a baby was such hard work!” He chuckled at her. She looked as pretty as a picture. She held the baby expertly, feeding her, and eating. Her hair was mussed, and she had a streak of flour down the side of her face from baking earlier. When she looked at him with those emerald eyes of hers, it was all he could do from taking her in his arms and hug her. He never knew family life, his family, could be so rewarding.

Later, as Leah lay sleeping, they did dishes together. Heath always helped with the dishes, it was his way of saying thank you for supper. He knew he didn’t have to, but he knew that her back still bothered her, so he helped out where he could. He laid the towel on the counter when he was done and took her in his arms. They stood there for a while just holding each other. This was their favorite time of day. Heath took her hand, leading her out to the porch where the swing was and sat down. He rolled himself his nightly cigarette, and put his arm around her shoulders. She snuggled into them and laid her head on his shoulder. This was heaven, she thought.

“I see ya found my watch, Janey.” She sat up suddenly and looked at him. She nodded but didn’t say anything. She had forgotten about the watch lying on the coffee table. “Where did ya find it?”

She gulped, not knowing what to say. She decided that the truth was the best course of action. She didn’t have to tell him the whole conversation she reasoned with herself. “A friend of yours brought it over. Apparently ya dropped it when you went to the saloon last night. I looked at it and it looks like the hook is broken. I’ll fix it tomorrow for ya.” Heath gave her a sideways glance. She was talking fast, something she did when she was nervous. He didn’t say anything. She would tell him what was wrong eventually, he hoped.

“Who brought it over? I’d thank the person myself. That watch means a lot to me. I was so upset that I lost it!” He hugged her tight.

She gulped again and told him it was Melissa Parkins. He looked at her incredulously. “She was here?” Janine nodded. “I told her last night, that I didn’t want to be anywhere near her!” Heath was getting angry. If she was here, then she was up to something. He didn’t like it. Not one bit. “What did she say to you, exactly Janine? I want the truth!”

Heath gave her a look that really scared her. She gulped and told him the truth, there was no way she was going to lie to him, not when he looked at her like that. He was angry after she told him what she had said.

“No Heath. I’m sure she was just talking to hear herself talk. She didn’t mean it, I’m sure of it. She just came to see what she missed, I think. I can’t believe you ever had anything to do with that woman, Heath. She is pretty but she sure is vicious sounding!” Janine heard Leah crying and went inside to get her. She brought out a bottle and fed her while they talked quietly. Heath calmed down some, but was still very angry. He would go to town tomorrow and have a talk with her once and for all. She would not threaten his wife again. He would make sure of it.

They went to bed after lying Leah down, leaving her door partly open. They got undressed for bed and picked up the book they were reading. They had just finished Gulliver’s Travels and decided to read Oliver Twist next. They took turns each night reading a chapter. They turned out the lamps and snuggled into each other’s arms. They murmured words of love to each other, in between kisses and caresses. They got more passionate, as they didn’t get much private time these days. Leah took up a lot of their time. They made love with a passion they had forgotten existed. Passions spent, they laid close to one another, holding hands and legs entwined, falling asleep.

Leah woke them up the next morning. Janine groaned and pulled her head under the blankets. She heard a manly chuckle, so she nudged him saying, “Go get your daughter, I’m sleeping.” Heath kissed her and got up, padding down the hallway and scooped up his daughter. He brought her back to her mother and went down to light the stove to make some coffee. He brought back two cups of coffee and a bottle of milk for Leah. They went outside to sit on the love seat they recently set out on their verandah. They watched as the sun made pictures with oranges, pinks and reds. Heath put his arm around his wife’s shoulders. She leaned against him, loving the feel of his strong arm around her.

Heath went down to make breakfast, it was something they agreed upon when they moved into the house. Heath liked to cook, so he told her he would cook breakfast and she did lunch and supper. She didn’t mind, Heath was a good cook, and enjoyed having a meal served to her in the mornings. Sometimes Nick, or Jarrod would stop by in the mornings and saw Heath in the kitchen. They teased him about it, but admitted their brother was a good cook after they had some. Janine came down while he was still cooking with Leah in her arms. She put Leah in the play pen and helped Heath with the meal by setting the table. They sat down for breakfast and discussed their plans for the day.

“I’m going to town today for supplies. Do you need anything, Janey?” She nodded and produced a lengthy list. “Boy howdy Janey! That’s some list!” he chuckled. “It may take some time to get all this, I have to go get some feed for our animals as well.”

“No problem. I have some things I need to get done around here, like weedin’ the garden, feedin’ the chickens, and rabbits. ”

“Rabbits?” He looked at her puzzled, he had no idea they had rabbits.

“Yes rabbits.” She looked at him, shyly. “Ummmmm…..I guess I forgot to tell ya. I bought two rabbits from the Macgregor’s the other day.”

“Oh good….Food!”

“I don’t think so, Mr. Barkley. They’re my pets, named Romeo and Juliet. You’ll not go near my rabbits. Do ya understand me?”

“Boy howdy, my pretty, don’t get so riled up! I was only jokin’.” She slapped him on the arm.

“Just so you know!”

They finished eating their breakfast while their daughter gurgled in the background. They did the breakfast dishes together, then Heath went to hitch the wagon while Janine changed Leah and brought her outside. There was a play pen outside all ready and Janine moved it under the tree. She gently placed Leah in it and went about her outside chores.

Heath left for town a little while later, thinking about what he was going to say to Missy when he saw her. He purposely didn’t mention the real reason why he wanted to go to town. He had supplies to buy, but he was going to stop in at the saloon and give that woman a piece of his mind.

Heath went to the general store and picked up the supplies that Janine needed for the house. Then he went over to the feed store and picked up feed for the horses, the cows, the chickens and the rabbits. He chuckled thinking, She bought rabbits for pets. My wife is really something! He loaded up the wagon and headed towards the saloon. He wanted a beer and to see if Missy was there.

He pulled up to the saloon and leaped out of the wagon. He sauntered up to the counter and told Harry he wanted a beer. He thanked Harry for the beer, turning around to observe the room. There were few people at this time of day, just a few of the ruffian town drunks, and a couple of saloon girls. He asked Harry if Missy was working today. Harry told him not until later in the day.

“Do you know where I can find her?”

Harry gave him a strange look, pointing upstairs, “Room nine.” Heath nodded, drank his beer and went upstairs to her room. He knocked on the door, once, twice. The door opened a crack.

“Yes?”

“Open up Missy! We need to talk!” The door opened wider and Heath pushed his way in.

“Well, well, well. If its not the great Heath Thom…..I mean Barkley! You can’t be bothered with the likes of me. Not when you got the whole world in your hands!”

“Listen ya whore! Ya made a fool of me once, but I won’t let ya do it again! I don’t want ya nor have I ever wanted ya in the past!” She scoffed at that.

“Listen Mister Barkley! I don’t know what you’re doin’ here but if I were you, I ‘d get out now! She thrust a knife towards him, which he stepped back when he saw it.

“I wouldn’t do that if I were ya, Missy! Thanks for returning my watch, by the way. I appreciate it, it was a gift to me.” He was busy planning a strategic move to get that knife out of her unwavering hand.

“Did your wife send you? Is that why you’re here?” She was ready to strike if he moved any closer.

“No. She doesn’t know I’m here. If she knew, she would try to talk me out of it. I don’t take too kindly to people threatening to my wife and I don’t really like people spreading lies about me!” He slowly made his way towards her. She backed up, as she didn’t like the way he was glaring at her.

“I didn’t lie about you. You did see me the other night and we did have fun, didn’t we?” She struck out with the knife but he kept coming closer. “Heath if you touch me, I’ll scream!” He grabbed her hand and squeezed it till she dropped the knife.

“Now ya wouldn’t do that, would ya?” she opened her mouth to scream. His hand covered her mouth, “Now ya listen to me. And listen to me good! I want you to leave this town, and not come back! At first I didn’t care if you stayed here, but you went too far, you threatened my wife so now I want you out of my life. Go back to where you belong, I don’t want to see you again!”

He took his hand off her mouth and said. “I don’t know why I should listen to you Cowboy. You were always too big for your britches! But I decided I was leaving anyway. There is nothing here for me in this God forsaken town!” As she spoke, she picked up her knife and thrust it into Heath’s arm. He reacted, backhanding her and sending her backwards into the wall. Harry heard the noise and came running upstairs.

“Heath! What’s going on here?”

“Get the sheriff, Harry! I want to press charges!”

“I think you might need the doctor too!” Harry ran out of the room, giving orders to someone to get the sheriff and the doctor.

A while later, Heath was on his way home, wondering how he was going to explain his arm to his wife. He was worried about what she was going to say. He pulled up to the barn and unhitched the horse. He curried the horse and stabled him. He was taking his time and was about to leave the barn, when he walked into her.

“Uh…hi ya Janey!” He said and tried to walk past her. She stood in his way with her arms crossed.

“Don’t hi Janey me!” Heath winced at the tone in her voice, “I knew you were up to something when you left this morning!” She hugged him then checked his arm. “ya are really somethin’ ya know that? I wish ya had told me what you were plannin’ on doin’”

“How did ya find out?”

“I didn’t know for sure until ya drove in. I saw the look on your face when you were brushing Princess. Then I knew ya saw her. I wish ya had left well enough alone!” He hung his head.

“I’m sorry Janey, but I couldn’t let her threaten ya like that. It made me mad and I had to do something! I wanted to protect ya!”

“Oh Heath! sometimes I wonder ‘bout ya! Thanks but next time would ya tell me what ya plan on doin’. I’m not ready for death do us part yet!” She smiled at him, “Come on, let’s go in. Your daughter is waiting for you!” They held hands and walked into the house.

That night as they finished the chapter in their book and laid quietly in the dark, Janey asked him, They went into the house where Heath picked up Leah, hugging her. She was just over a month old and looked more like her mother everyday. Heath smiled to himself while feeding her. He listened to Janine banging around the kitchen, cooking the evening meal. She was something else his wife, loving her had changed his life, and their daughter was beautiful. Contented, he lifted himself off the sofa when he heard his wife tell him, “Come eat Heath.” He sat down, gave Leah to her and dished up his supper.

After dinner, Janine lay Leah down in the playpen while they waited for the water to heat for dishes and coffee. They sit side by side on the sofa, Heath cleaned his gun and Janine picked up her needlework. She put it down suddenly and asked “Do you think you can save me from every bad person ya have ever encountered?”

Heath kept up his cleaning answering, solemnly, “No, however, I can try Honey. I know you would’ve done the same for me!” She moved closer to him and put her arms around him.

“Next time, let’s get together and discuss what we are going to do, all right. I hate knowing that you’re up to something, and not knowing what! You coulda been killed!”

“All right, my pretty, but let’s hope there is no next time!”

Janine rose up from the sofa and poured the water into the sink, starting the dishes. She thought about her life since she married her cowboy and sighed. Things sure have changed in the last year, she thought, and for the better. She glanced at Heath as he picked up a towel and dried the few dishes she had washed. He winked at her making her blush. They were contented with their life. A home and a family, my family, thought Heath.

They finished the dishes and went outside to enjoy the evening air before bed. As they snuggled together on the porch swing, they spoke quietly of the future, their dreams and their hopes. Life was good to them, and they couldn’t be happier.

THE END