Settling In

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 honeymoon over, the newly married couple, looked upon their life together as an adventure. They got up in the morning before anyone else in the house, had their cup of coffee, and went outside to enjoy the sunrise. There was usually an hour left before breakfast, so Janine would help Heath with his morning chores, saddling Charger, gathering the equipment he needed and placing it in the wagon and hitching it. This was their time before the hustle and bustle of the household demanded it.

They had been home a week, and while they enjoyed being home, they missed the quietness of nature. They understood each other, one often reacted to the other without being told. They had a need to be near each other, when they were apart the other wasn’t far from their thoughts. When they were together, they always had a kind word, a touch of hands or a touch of the smile. The smile meant a lot to each of them. When they were in the same room doing different things, Janine looked up and her husband would be watching her. He smiled and winked at her, knowingly. She would smile back and go back to whatever she was doing at the time. They loved each other and of that there was no doubt.

They sat down to breakfast just as the others were entering the room. Heath brought their breakfast and sat down. “Thank you Heath” Janine began to eat. Victoria watched the pair and smiled. They are quite a couple, she mused.

“Well Heath, what do you say we get those fences mended in the south pasture today?” Nick asked in his usual loud voice.

“Yeah okay Nick. Then we can go look at the dike and see if its going to hold the rain water.” Nick nodded, gulping his coffee.

“Good idea, boy.” Heath threw him his lopsided grin and finished his breakfast. He put his napkin on the plate and sat back to let his meal settle. Janine was talking to Audra about some new catalogue that she had gotten in the mail. “I just gotta show you this wonderful dress in there!” she said. To Heath, she mentioned that she was going to town to see her parents for a while and pick up some of her things. Heath nodded, and watched her eat. “Audra, we will look at that catalogue later if you like.”

“Janine, that would be wonderful! I would like that very much.” Audra smiled, she was fond of having a sister in law very much. Finally someone to talk to who wasn’t a mother or a brother. Someone she could confide in when she needed to.

“Well, Heath old boy, we should be working, not sitting here. This is a working ranch you know!” They heard this saying so many times that they could predict when he was going to say it.

“I’ll walk you to the door, Heath” Janine expressed to her husband. Heath kissed his mother’s cheek, and said good bye to Audra and Jarrod. He took Janine’s hand and they walked out to the door.

He took his hat off the table where he had placed it earlier and put it on his sandy blond head. Janine said that she was leaving for town in an hour and would be back before supper.

“Be careful, driving, ya hear? I’ll hitch up the buckboard for ya.”

“Thanks Heath. I just want to visit Mama and Papa for a while and grab a few of my things.”

They kissed passionately until the door opened and a loud masculine voice shouted “HEATH! HEA…..” The couple looked at him and chuckled. “Heath, would you hurry up! This is a working ranch you know!”

“Gotta go Honey, the boss bellows. See you tonight and say howdy to your folks for me” Heath kissed her again, following his older, dark haired brother out the door. Janine looked forlornly at the door, missing him already.

An hour later, she was on her way to town, it was the first time she had been there since they arrived home. She headed down the main street, made a left onto a side street towards her small cabin. She was going to give it up, but with her parents still in town, they decided to keep it.

She pulled the wagon up to a stop in front of the small log cabin. She jumped off the wagon and walked up the stoop. She knocked on the door once and walked in. “Hi Mama and Papa. Sorry I haven’t been by sooner, its been busy at the ranch.” The older couple got up and hugged their daughter, and sat back down again.

“Would you like some lunch Daughter?” Janine nodded in the affirmative. “How was your honeymoon?”

“Oh Mama!” She excitedly told her, “It was marvelous! We had the best time! We saw wild animals, saw some really nice scenery and just enjoyed each other!” The older couple smiled at each other. It was nice to see her so happy. “I came by to pick up some of my things as well as visit you. I’m so glad you’re still here!”

“We decided since we are here, we are going to do some sight seeing around the great state. It sure is pretty here!” commented her father. While they ate their lunch, they talked of non-important things, like the weather, and what was happening around town.

“Well I had better get some of my things packed if I’m gonna make it home in time for supper.” commented Janine. She went out to the wagon and took out the crates that she had put in earlier from the ranch. She brought them in and put them on the sofa in the living room. She took her pictures off the walls, her nick-nacks off the shelves and some books and filled one crate. She took the other crate and moved into the bedroom, where she filled with stuff from the dresser and her end tables.

“Janine” her mother stood in the doorway watching her daughter pack her things. “We need to talk before you go home.”

Janine turned to face her, searching her face, wondering what there was to be said that made her purse her lips like that. She nodded, “I’m ‘bout finished, mama.”

“We’ll meet you out in the dining room. Have a coffee before you go.”

Janine turned back to her work, thinking. What did I do wrong now? Were they mad at me for some reason? Her heart beat faster, knowing something was up. Something was wrong. She finished filling the crate and took it out to the living room. She set it down, intent on taking the two crates to the wagon. Her father motioned her to the table and offered her a coffee.

She knew she had no choice to sit with them and face the inevitable. Whatever was wrong, she would put on a brave face and make it right, she couldn’t lose her parents twice in one lifetime. She took a drink of the steaming coffee, not looking at either parent.

“Janine, we want to talk to you about your husband.” Janine snapped her head up at his name.

“Heath?” She was confused, what did her precious husband do? He wouldn’t hurt anyone or anything unless he was provoked. He was a kind, gentle man and she loved him dearly.

“Yes Heath. We heard things. I am hoping they are rumors.” Stated her father, who was looking stern at her. She was uncomfortable, she didn’t like the way her parents were looking at her.

“W-w-what did you hear?” she asked in a very small voice, afraid of the answer.

“Is it true that he is not Victoria Barkley’s son?” Charles’ eyes bored into her, making it impossible for her to look away.

“Y-y-yes Papa. It’s true. Should that matter? He is a good man. I love him, you liked him Papa. You said yourself that he was a good choice for me.” She was near tears.

“Yes Daughter. That was before I knew what he was. A bastard. The worst kind. If I had known you would never have married him! He is no good, Janine.”

“PAPA!” she shouted at her father. “HEATH IS A GOOD MAN. HE SPENT HIS LIFE LOOKING FOR A FAMILY AND THE BARKLEYS ACCEPTED HIM! HOW DARE YOU CRITICIZE SOMEONE BECAUSE OF A BIRTHRIGHT!”

The older couple shrank back at the venom in their daughter’s words. She was ready to defend her husband at any cost. Even if meant losing her parents. Again. “I’M NOT DONE YET MAMA! I SUPPOSE YOU THINK PAPA IS RIGHT! AM I CORRECT IN ASSUMING THIS MAMA?”

Marjorie just nodded, near tears herself. “Don’t yell Janine Marie! You know we’re right! Being married to a bastard is not a good thing. Do you know what the townspeople are saying about you?”

“I DON’T CARE!” she took a deep breath and calmed down a little. “If you believe what other people say and not care about your daughter’s happiness, then fine, I don’t want to have you in my life anymore! You know Heath is a fine man, he is respectable, kind and a gentle man. Not to mention one of the most polite men I’ve ever met! He won’t harm anyone or anything unless provoked. You think about that, Mother and Father.” She picked up a crate and went out to put it in the wagon. She came back in, picked up the other crate. “If you want to see me, you know where to find me. How dare you criticize me!” She walked out of the cabin threw the crate into the buckboard, climbed in and raced towards the ranch. Tears filling her eyes, she let the horses find the way back.

When she pulled into the barn, Heath was there waiting for her to come back. She didn’t look at him, just got out of the wagon and started towards the house. “Hey Janey, aren’t ya even going to say howdy to your husband?” She turned around and stared at him. She nodded and continued her way to the house. She couldn’t face him yet. Not yet. She needed to be alone. Her parents’ attitudes really disturbed her.

“Hey Janey! What’s wrong?” he asked, concern written all over his face.

“Leave me alone Heath! Just leave me alone!” She ran into the house and up the stairs to their bedroom. She threw herself on the bed and cried.

Heath stood in the barn wondering what had happened. He decided to unhitch the wagon, giving her some time to work out whatever was wrong with her. After he was done with the horses, he slowly made his way into the house, thinking about his wife.

He entered the foyer of the house, putting his hat on the table. The family were all gathered in the parlor, talking, so Heath joined them. “Janine isn’t here with you?” He looked around the room.

“No she’s not Heath. I never even saw her come in” said Victoria.

“I did, she is upstairs” said Nick, “and she looked very upset, she didn’t even say hello to anyone!” He sounded disappointed. Janine was very good at saying something to everyone. To not say anything to anyone, not even him was not like her.

“I’ll go check on her. Don’t wait supper for us Mother. We’ll get something later.” She nodded.

“Did you have a fight with her, boy?” inquired Nick, cautiously.

“No, we didn’t fight.” And with that he went upstairs to find out what was wrong with his wife. He opened the door to their bedroom quietly so not to disturb her. He watched his wife’s body shake with tears. He sat on the bed next to her, wanting desperately to hold her. He put his hand on her back, rubbing it, trying to calm her down. She turned on her side, and stared at her husband who looked as bewildered as she felt. She sat up and threw her arms around his neck.

“I love you!” she sobbed into his neck.

“Hey what’s wrong, my pretty? What happened?” His strong arms went around her waist pulling her close. He loved the feel of her body and couldn’t get enough of her. She pulled herself away and wiped her emerald eyes.

“Oh Heath! My parents are so….so…..so ignorant!” Heath shot her a look of disbelief. “They found out about your parentage! You wouldn’t believe what they said about you!” He pulled her closer, tears coming to his eyes, will people always think of him this way? He thought that maybe since he was married, things would change. Things had calmed down over the years, he was an accepted member of the town, earning respect over and over again with his heroism, loyalty and with his kind and gentle ways. When he was single, he courted the daughters of respected residents, but they always had the decency not to say anything to him about his being illegitimate to his face but always forbade them to see him again.

“I’m sorry honey,” he soothed her, “I knew this was going to happen. I didn’t think your parents would react like that. I’m used to the scorn and ridicule from people who don’t understand.” He hugged her tightly and kissed the top of her head.

“I made a big mistake Heath. I didn’t tell them about ya. I just didn’t think it was that important. But I was wrong! They told me if they had known, they wouldn’t have let me marry ya. I hate them so much! How can people be so shallow?”

“Honey, ya don’t hate your parents. Please don’t say that. Remember what you told me? It doesn’t matter what people think. We love each other and that’s all that matters, right?” He lifted her face to meet hers. “I know it hurts that its your parents that think like that. We’ll go over tomorrow, together and talk to them, okay?” He touched her nose with his finger.

“’K Heath. Did I ever tell ya that I loved ya?”

He chuckled and replied, “I think I might have heard that somewhere before!” She kissed him passionately and laid back on the bed pulling him with her. He chuckled and remarked, “Such passion woman! I’m glad we’re married!”

They got up after a while and went downstairs to eat the supper that they missed. Victoria put it in the warmer of the cook stove so it would be warm when they wanted it. They sat in the kitchen to eat their meal. Victoria came in after a bit to see if they had come down to eat. “Sorry Victoria for missing supper. I-I-I was upset about something. It won’t happen again” she apologized for profusely.

“It’s all right Janine. I figured something was wrong. I hope it’s all worked out now.” Victoria smiled at the couple and said good night. She was going upstairs to read and get an early night. Heath kissed Victoria on the cheek and watched her ascend the stairs. They finished their meal and washed the few dishes they used.

They heard Nick and Jarrod in the billiard room playing a lively game of pool. They opened the door, and the two older brothers were arguing about a shot that Jarrod had taken. “It was too a called shot” argued Jarrod.

“Was not, that was a fluke shot!” Nick shot back. Heath and Janine watched this exchange and chuckled.

“Hey ya guys! Wanna play a real game?” challenged Janine. She winked at her husband. Heath knew what she was up to and backed her up. “Me and Heath against you and Jarrod” Nick agreed to this arrangement and racked up the balls.

“Are you sure you want to play against an expert?” challenged Nick to Janine. Janine didn’t say anything but gave him a sidelong glance. She was going to love this. Heath handed her a cue, telling her she could break.

“No, Heath, I think you should break.” He gave her a lopsided grin, remembering what happened the last time he let her break. At least this time, he would be able to have one shot in. He took his shot and one ball fell in the corner pocket. It was a high ball. He shot and missed at the fifteen ball. Jarrod stepped up to the table and took a shot at the four ball. He missed the shot then it was Janine’s shot. She lined up her shot at the eleven ball and sunk it. She shot at the thirteen ball and sunk it. She sunk all the high balls. All was quiet in the room. She looked at Heath and winked saying “Eight ball right side pocket.” She lined it up and the eight ball made two banks against the rag and went in where Janine wanted it. Nick and Jarrod were stunned. They had never seen anything like it. She was good. “Now who’s the expert?” she asked Nick

“Heath, can I have a drink of sherry?” Heath grinned and poured her a drink. She took it and had a big sip. She was waiting for the brothers to say something, anything.

Jarrod was the first to speak. “Good game, sis!” he managed to get out. “I never seen anyone play like that! Heath did you know about this?”

“Yeah Heath? Did you know about this?” Janine grinned as Heath took a ribbing from his brothers. She took another sip of her sherry.

“Yep, she got me in Sonora. Exactly the same way she got you. I suspected it when she took that first shot here that night.” Heath put his arm around his wife.

“Well Sis, what do ya have to say for yourself?” Nick stood in front of her with his hands on his hips.

“Nuthin’” came the reply. “I won fair and square. What’s the matter, upset you were beaten by a WOMAN?” Jarrod and Heath laughed at the look on their dark haired brother’s face.

“Maybe now ya will watch what you say, hey? What’s the sayin’ Heath? Looks are deceiving?” Heath nodded, not wanting to get between his wife and his brother. They seemed to enjoy sparring with each other.

“You wanna play for money, next time big brother? Maybe ya can beat me, huh, if there is money involved?” She grinned at him.

“Maybe next time Neen. I’m tired.” Nick laid down his cue and ventured out of the room. “Night everyone!” he said.

Jarrod watched as Nick left the room. “I think our brother is a little upset with losing.” He looked at Janine, “I think you will be good for him, Janine. He enjoys a good challenge!” Heath agreed wholeheartedly.

Janine finished her drink and decided it was time for bed as well. “See ya in the morning Jarrod.” She left the room purposely knowing full well that her husband was watching her.

Heath and Jarrod decided to play a game of pool as they rarely spend any time with each other. “Boy howdy Jarrod! It’s been a spell since we played!” commented the younger, blond brother.

“Sure has Heath. And I say its ‘bout time too!” Heath racked the balls and Jarrod broke. They played in silence for a while till Jarrod said “that’s some wife you got, Heath. You happy?”

“Don’t I know it Pappy! She’s a wonderful lady, helpful, friendly, sensitive and a lot of fun to be with. You know most women would frown upon camping and riding for so long. The trip to Sonora, she didn’t complain once. Even when I knew she was tired, she trudged on.” Jarrod looked at his little brother in amazement. He rarely said a lot at once and tonight he was very talkative.

“You shoulda seen her Jarrod. She wanted to go for a beer in Sonora. So I agreed. We went into this friendly little saloon, there was a pool table. Boy howdy her eyes lit up. She asked me if I wanted to play. I said yes of course and racked up the balls for her. Well Jarrod! I didn’t get one shot in on that game!”

Jarrod smiled at the image of Heath standing there watching her sink ball after ball. “After that she was asked to play for money, so I let her play. Jarrod, she won a hundred dollars playing! I was so impressed!” Jarrod let out a low whistle.

“Where did she learn to play like that?” Jarrod was curious, he had seen no one play like that.

“She said her father taught her” Yep, Heath thought, she is full of surprises.

Heath yawned after the game was done. “Thanks Jarrod, great game! I think I’m going to bed now.” He put the pool cue back in its slot on the wall.

“Yeah I have some work that needs to be done before I can go to bed. I guess I’d better get to it. Night Heath”

“Night Pappy!”

They got up early and decided to go for a morning ride to Lookout point. They arrived just as the sun was making its appearance in the gray-blue sky. They dismounted and sat at the edge of the mountain. They didn’t say anything to each other, both were lost in their own thoughts but they sat close to one another with Janine laying her head on Heath’s shoulder. The birds were waking up with their morning songs, making it a beautiful morning. Heath put his arm around her, pulling her closer.

Janine’s stomach rumbled, making Heath chuckle. “I guess we had better go get some chow, now.” He commented breaking the silence. Janine eyed him and didn’t say anything, just rose, pulling him with her. She embraced him and mounted Titan. She waited patiently for him to mount Charger all the while not saying much. She was not happy that they were going to face her parents about Heath’s parentage.

They talked about it again last night before they went to sleep. Janine became angry at his insistence that they needed to straighten things out. She knew it had to be done, but she wasn’t happy about it. They had come very close to their first fight last night. He just didn’t understand her parents, once they made up their mind about something there was just no changing their minds, she tried to reason with herself that he was right. In her mind she knew he was right, but she was being stubborn about it.

Heath was thinking about the night before. She could be so stubborn. She argued with him that it wouldn’t do any good to talk to them. They weren’t going to change their minds about him. He really didn’t care what they thought about him, it was Janine’s relationship with her parents, he was worried about. He didn’t want to be the cause of her estrangement with her family. Family was just too important.

They rode in silence back to the house. They dismounted their horses and went into the house just in time for breakfast. Janine got a plate and filled it with scrambled eggs, hash browns and bacon. She poured herself a coffee and sat down. Heath did the same and nodded good morning to everyone. Janine didn’t say much to anyone as she was too agitated to talk. Heath nudged her, Janine realizing she hadn’t said anything to anyone, said good morning as cheerfully as she could.

“Good morning Heath, Janine. How are you this morning?” Victoria greeted them cheerfully.

Heath answered for the both of them, “ Mornin’ Mother. We’re fine.” Janine nodded in agreement. Victoria knew that something had happened between them last night as she heard the arguing coming from their room. Whatever they were arguing about certainly wasn’t settled judging by the look on her daughter-in-law’s face.

“Nick,” Heath started slowly, “Janine and I’ll be going to town today. We have an important errand to do.” Nick was putting food on his plate when Heath made this announcement.

“Heath, we need to get those fences mended today” Heath nodded, knowing full well what had to be done, but he had to work things out with his wife and her family first.

“I know Nick. But this is important. I’ll ride out there when we get back.” He stated firmly, giving Nick a look that said not to argue with him. Nick nodded and looked at her. She was not looking at anyone, head down, eating her breakfast. Anyone could see that something was wrong so he decided not to push the issue.

“Just see that you come back early boy! We can’t be taking off whenever something comes up!” Heath threw Nick a look that warned him not to say anymore. Victoria sat back watching this exchange between the two brothers concerned for Heath and his wife. It must be serious if Heath is willing to risk a fight with Nick, she thought.

“Nicholas!” scolded Victoria, “Let your brother be! He will be back when he can.” Heath threw her a grateful look. Janine excused herself and left the room, heading up the stairs to their room. They all watched her leave, not knowing what was happening between the two of them and Heath certainly wasn’t going to enlighten them, not yet.

Janine got herself ready to go to town. Nope, I’m not goin’ to like this at all. Someone is goin’ to lose their temper and I’m afraid. I don’t wanna lose my parents again, but I don’t want to see Heath hurt. What am I goin’ to do? I don’t want to lose Heath either. Oh how I hate this! Having to choose between my parents and my husband! Why oh why do they do this to me? Why?

She was arguing with herself when Heath walked into the room. He watched for a while from the doorway. She was angrily brushing her hair and mumbling to herself. He couldn’t make out what she was saying but by the way she was pulling at her hair, she was getting angrier and angrier. He walked over to her and took the brush. He gently brushed her hair, calming her down. When Heath saw the tears running down her face, he put the brush down on the dresser and turned her around. “Janey” he mumbled and pulled her close.

“Oh Heath. I’m sorry about being rude this mornin’” He stroked her hair, wanting her to talk to him. “I’m afraid to go talk to my parents. Yer gonna be so angry. They’re gonna be so angry. I don’t wanna have to choose between you and my parents. It’s not right!” She sobbed into his shirt, soaking it.

“Boy howdy, Janey! Everythin’ will be all right, I promise.” Janine knew he didn’t promise things lightly, so she simply nodded, not knowing what else to say. She pulled away, wiping the tears from her eyes.

“Heath, don’t make me go! Please!” she begged him.

He simply said, “We have to. I don’t care what they think of me, but its your family, Janine. I don’t want to be the cause of you losing them. Look how long it took you to get in contact with them last time. No, Janine, we have to go talk to them.” He looked deep into her beautiful emerald eyes, “Now wipe your eyes, and we’ll go.” He handed her a tissue.

They descended the stairs a little while later, and headed out the door, when Victoria came out of the dining room. “Heath! Janine! You weren’t going to leave without saying good bye were you?”

“No Mother. We weren’t. We just have some things on our minds is all.”

Victoria nodded in understanding. “Janine,” she put her hand on her face, “whatever it is that’s troubling you, please feel free to talk to me. I’m a good listener.”

Janine nodded, “yes ma’am. Thank you” She looked at Heath and gulped. “Heath, we’d better go.”

Heath kissed his mother on the cheek and opened the door. “We’ll be back soon Mother.” She nodded and watched the couple leave the house.

They arrived at the small cabin an hour later. Heath pulled up to the cabin, and stopped. Heath jumped out of the wagon and helped Janine out. He held her hand as they walked up the stairs and he knocked on the door. He hoped he looked confident because he didn’t feel very confident. Maybe this wasn’t such a good idea, he thought, I’m beginning to act like Nick now. Acting before I think. No, I did think this out. Her family is important. I will not let her lose them on account of me! He was arguing with himself as the door opened. Janine boldly walked in and made herself at home. Heath sat beside her on the sofa still holding her hand.

Marjorie smiled in spite of herself. She knew that she would be back, and she also knew that she would bring her husband with her. She was so predictable. Charles came out of the bedroom and saw his daughter sitting on the sofa with her husband. He was expecting this.

“Would you like a coffee?” offered Marjorie. Heath nodded, and put his hat on the coffee table.

“What brings you here?” Charles asked.

“Mama! Papa! Quit playing games!” Janine told her parents hotly, “You know very well why we’re here!” Heath patted her hand soothingly.

“Yes, well. We had our say yesterday, Daughter!” Marjorie was at the cook stove stirring a pot of soup she was making for lunch.

“Yes MOTHER but you didn’t tell Heath!” Janine got up from the sofa and started pacing the floor.

“Janine Marie, you sit down right this minute!” ordered Charles. He really hated it when she started pacing, it meant trouble was about to happen. Heath was watching this exchange between mother, father, and daughter. He was feeling a little uncomfortable, knowing that this meeting was his idea and it was about him. “Now you two! Heath I gather you know why my daughter, your wife, is so mad at us?”

“Yes sir.” Heath looked him in the eye and stated, “and I don’t like your attitude one bit Mr. Greene.” He was calm, too calm. Janine watched her husband, not knowing what to expect, she had seen this calm twice before and knew that no good came from this. Heath was angry, very angry.

“I have spent my whole life fighting people like you. You liked me well enough before you found out I was a bastard. Yes I am a bastard. But your daughter loves me. I don’t know why, but she does and I love her. That should be good enough. I’m sorry we didn’t tell you before the wedding but I think Janine had her reasons. I’m sorry that you don’t feel that I’m good enough for your family but there is nothing I can do to change my past!”

“Papa. Mama,” Janine took a cue from her husband and calmed down, “I didn’t tell you about Heath’s past because it wasn’t important to me. He is a bastard, sure. So what! He had no choice in the matter! His parents made wrong decisions and he ended up growing up without a father. But he is as good as anyone, better than a lot of people. He doesn’t have to prove himself to you, or to you, mama or to me. I love him because of the person he is. A kind, gentle person who means no harm to anyone. If you give him a chance he can be your best friend or your worst enemy. Your choice. My choice is to stay by my husband for better or for worse, I made that decision at my wedding and I intend to abide by it!”

Heath sat back, stunned by Janine’s outburst. She had more to say, but she kept quiet to gather her thoughts that were flowing furiously through her head. She rose off the sofa and poured herself a glass of water. She took the coffee off the stove and poured everyone another cup. It was all silent as they watched her pace back and forth. Charles wanted to shout at her to stop pacing but she said a lot that was making him think. Marjorie was silently sobbing on the chair in the corner.

“Father,” she looked him in the eyes, “Heath told me that I had to come here and straighten this out. I will tell you that I argued with him. I did not want to come here. I was so upset and angry and confused. I still am a little confused. I know I am acting like a spoiled brat, but I’m not fifteen years old anymore. I won’t let ya tell me who can be my friends, husbands or enemies. I have a mind of my own and have learned a lot in the last few years. I promise you that I will not make the same mistake twice! I only wish you would take the time to get to know me, instead of judging me.”

Heath spoke up in his own defense, “Janine is right Mr., Mrs. Greene. I have lived with this kind of prejudice all my life. I have been scorned, scoffed, beaten, but I’ve learned to turn a deaf ear to it. My mama taught me to stand proud, to stand up for what I believe in. I love my wife. I told her last night that I wanted her to come here and talk to ya because I didn’t want to be the cause of ya leaving and not talking to her again!”

It was Charles’ turn to be stunned. Here was his daughter defending her husband the way she is supposed to and her husband defending her the way he was supposed to. He told her to come here and talk. He is a good man, he thought, too bad he is bastard. Her daughter married a bastard! He couldn’t get past that thought. But this man was a good man, all he wanted for his daughter. He was going to have to think this one through. “Okay you two you had your say. I’m going to have to think this through. I’m not pleased you kept this from us Janine Marie. That was the wrong thing to do. I can’t punish you anymore, and I’m unsure how to deal with this. Your mother and I need to talk.”

Heath and Janine glanced at each other, not knowing what to say or to think. Heath stood up, pulling Janine with him. “Well sir, I guess we’ve said our piece. We’ll go now, rest assured that we won’t stand in your way of any decision ya make. I’d like ya to know that I don’t want ya to leave ‘cause of me. Ya spent way too long regretting the last decision ya made about your daughter. Don’t do it to her again. Family is way too important. Believe me I know! Good bye Mr. Greene, Mrs. Greene. Hope to see ya again soon.” He picked up his hat and placed it on his head.

“Bye Mama. Bye Papa. I love ya both, and I hope we can be a real family sometime.” She gave them both a hug, and went back to stand by her husband. Heath tipped his hat to them and left out the door with Janine trailing behind. Charles and Marjorie stood in the doorway watching the couple drive away in the buckboard. They went back into the house, knowing what their decision would be. Tomorrow, they would go out to the ranch and tell them.

Heath drove the buckboard into the barn and helped Janine out. Janine helped her husband unhitch the wagon, all the while thinking about her parents. He had been right, her husband, to insist that they go back together, and clear the air. She felt guilty about the way she acted this morning. Heath led the horse into the barn and curried her before he stabled her. Janine sat on a bed of hay, watching her handsome husband. Wanting to say something to him, she rose, grabbed a curry brush and brushed the other side. Heath didn’t say anything to her, just kept brushing, waiting for her to speak up. “Heath?”

“Yeah, my pretty?” He kept brushing, waiting for her to go on.

“I’m sorry I got so mad at ya this morning. I was just so confused, so hurt by my parents reaction. I didn’t stop to think about you.” She kept brushing, glad that she couldn’t see his expression over the horse.

“It’s all right Janey. I’m pretty used to people’s actions towards me. It’s not so bad now, but every once in awhile, it rears its ugly head. I hate it but I hate what it does to ya. I warned ya about the consequences of marrying someone like me.” Janine nodded. “I hope ya aren’t going to get this upset every time someone mentions my past.”

Janine’s eyes watered, “I’m so sorry Heath. I promise I’ll be more considerate of your feelings from now on. I have handled everything so badly in the last couple of days. Will ya forgive me?” She kept on brushing and didn’t hear Heath come around the horse. He put his hand on hers and turned her so that she could face him.

“I already have, my pretty. I was pretty proud of ya, the way you stood up to your parents. I couldn’t have said it better myself.” Janine threw her arms around his neck and hugged him. “Janey” he said huskily, “I hope we don’t argue like this again!”

“Me too, Heath, but I can’t promise anything!” Heath chuckled and kissed her passionately. She responded to his kiss and pressed her body up against his. After a few minutes, they decided to stable the horse and go into the house.

When they arrived inside the house, Victoria was waiting for them. Heath placed his hat on the table and took hold of his wife’s hand. “We’ve been waiting for you two. Come into the study.” Heath and Janine glanced at Victoria and at each other, shrugging their shoulders. They obediently followed the matriarch into the study. Everyone was there waiting for them. Jarrod, was sitting at his desk, and rose when he saw them come in. Nick was standing by the fireplace, holding a drink and looked deep in thought. Audra was on the settee, crocheting. They all looked at the couple as they walked in. Victoria had set her self down on the settee next to Audra.

“What’s goin’ on?” questioned Heath, not understanding anything.

“Sit down Heath, Janine.” Janine sat on the big chair in front of the fireplace. Heath sat on the arm of the chair. “It has come to our attention that you weren’t given a wedding present from any of us.” Heath started to speak, Victoria held up her hand to stop him from saying anything more.

Jarrod spoke up, “Heath you know the forty acres up in the North Pasture by the river?” Heath nodded. “We all talked it over and we want it to be yours if you want it.” Heath was stunned, Janine didn’t know what to say.

“Thank you,” she managed to get out. This family was too much. First letting her move in here and giving them this generous gift. She was overwhelmed.

Heath finally found his voice and drawled, “thank ya. We’d like it. Thank ya!” He hugged Victoria then shook hands with Jarrod and Nick. Next he hugged his sister, then hugged Victoria again. He looked at Janine and squeezed her hand. He would show her the property later.

Jarrod spoke up again saying, “We just have to sign some papers and in a few days it will be yours legally. Sorry the gift is so late in coming Heath. But we wanted to make sure it was perfect for you!” He held out a pen for Heath to use. Heath signed the paper with flourish and hugged his wife. He left his arm around her shoulders and faced his family.

“Thank you all! You’re all so wonderful! Let’s have a drink to celebrate!” Nick poured them all drinks and passed them all, toasting the couple, “To my little brother and his beautiful wife!” “Here! Here!” and they all took a drink. It was a wonderful evening.

Early the next morning, Heath took Janine to see their property. They sat on the edge of the river, watching the sunrise and making plans for their new house that Heath was going to build for them. It was to be a log house, they decided, with a wrap around porch. It would be two stories with lots of rooms. Their bedroom window would face the east so they could wake up to the sunrise. Janine sighed.. One day she was going to wake up and find that this was all a dream. She grasped Heath’s hand and pulled him up from the ground. “Come here!” she called to him. He followed here obediently away from the water. She stopped in a clearing and took his hand. “This is where we are going to build our house Heath!” He nodded liking the spot she chose. “When can we start building?”

Heath chuckled at her exuberance. “As soon as I get the plans drawn up honey!” He couldn’t help but be excited. It was exciting, having a house built, having this land given to them. Never would he have dreamed that this would be happening to him. He put his arms around his wife and held her tightly. “I love you Janine” He whispered. She smiled shyly and kissed him.

When they got back to the ranch house, it was breakfast. They went in, washed up and sat at the table with the family. “Thank ya for the property everyone” said Janine. “Heath showed it to me this mornin’ and its just lovely!”

Victoria nodded at them “You’re welcome dear. I’m glad you like it.” Janine got up, and much to everyone’s surprise, hugging the silver haired lady of the house. No one was more surprised then Victoria Barkley. When Janine sat down again, she glanced at Heath, who was suspiciously wiping his eyes. His wife was surprising him a lot these days. Such passion that woman has, he thought.

Heath left for the range soon after breakfast was over, and Janine decided to clean up their room. She left the door open so she wouldn’t feel so lonely. She was making the bed when she heard a knock at the door. She saw that Audra was standing at the door, “Come in, Audra.” She came in and sat down, watching her sister in law make her bed. After she was done, Janine sat down at the table beside the blonde hair beauty.

“Am I bothering you Janine?” She asked timidly.

“Nope. Just tidying up a little. Did you wanna talk?” Audra nodded, she so wanted a sister to talk to about things. Things she couldn’t talk to her brothers about or her mother.

“It’s so nice to have a someone around my age around the house. I never had a sister, so this is kinda nice. Having three brothers older then you and overprotective at that, is no fun at all. They are great, though, teaching me all kinds of things.” Janine nodded, understanding just how protective they can be. “Janine, can I ask you a personal question?” Audra observed her pretty sister in law.

“Sure Audra. As long as its not too personal.” Janine winked, and decided to shut the door.

Audra gulped, wondering how to ask the question that was uppermost in her mind. “How did you know when you were in love with Heath?” Audra looked at her feet, embarrassed.

“Oh that’s not such a bad question. Ya just hit my favorite topic!” Janine grinned at the blonde and they both burst out laughing. “Okay. How did I know that I was in love with Heath? Hmmmm…that’s a good question. I don’t think I can pin point it to one particular time. Its more of a time thing. Love takes time. When I first met him, his eyes attracted me to him. Then when I got to know him, it was his personality. He is such a gentle man, so patient, so unlike my first husband. Do ya think you’re in love, Audra?” Audra nodded, turning a shade of red. Janine got up and hugged her. “I take it I’m the first one to know?” she nodded again. “Do ya wanna tell me about it?”

Audra took a deep breath. “Well…I’ve been seeing Danny Sanderson for a few months now.” Janine nodded her head. “He is a nice boy, so polite, so gentle. I like him a lot. He asked me to marry him Janine.” Janine thought maybe something was wrong. She didn’t sound like someone who wanted to get married.

“Are you happy with him Audra?” Audra pondered the question.

“There is something else Janine.” Audra looked down at her hands, not sure how to proceed. When she looked up at her sister in law after a few minutes there were tears in her eyes. Janine was immediately concerned.

“Audra what’s wrong?”

“He told me if I loved him…I would….I would….” The tears rolled down her cheeks.

“lay with him?” Janine said quietly. Audra nodded. “Ya didn’t did ya?” Audra didn’t answer at first. “Audra, you didn’t?”

Audra looked at Janine and sobbed. Janine took Audra in her arms and rocked her. “No Janine, we didn’t. I was so scared. He figured if we were in love, it would be okay. I told him I didn’t want to and he accused me of not loving him. He tried to force himself on me and I got so mad at him that I hit him!” Janine chuckled in relief.

“You know. Guys will say anything to get you to sleep with them. Guys are pigs, including your brothers. But some of them outgrow it and realize the responsibility of their childish actions. Like your brothers. Any guy who tells you anything like that doesn’t really love you. A guy that loves you will wait till you’re married. Do you understand?” Audra nodded. “I won’t tell anyone about what you told me. That’s a sister thing. Like you, I am totally unfamiliar with having a sister but I think secrets are part of it..” Audra hugged Janine. “Feel better?’ Audra nodded. “Wipe your eyes and lets go down stairs to see about a drink of lemonade.”

They went down the back stairs and into the kitchen. Silas was busy making some soup for lunch. “We just came for some lemonade, Silas.” Silas nodded and went on stirring. The girls got a pitcher of lemonade, two glasses, made a couple of sandwiches, took some cookies and went back upstairs to Janine’s room.

“Here is that catalogue, Audra, I was telling ya about the other day.” Audra took the catalogue and leafed through it. “Wow! There are some really beautiful dresses in here. I should order one for the thanksgiving dance.” Janine looked at Audra.

“There is a dance?”

Audra nodded. “It will be soon. Oh here is one I like!” She pointed to a picture. “I think I will order that one.”

Janine took the catalogue and showed Audra the dress she ordered and Audra gushed over the picture. “That’s beautiful Janine!”

Janine flipped a few more pages to where the boots and shoes were, “These are the boots I ordered to go with it.”

“Does Heath know?” Janine shook her head no, “Let’s hint about the dance, and see if he asks me or if I’m gonna have to ask him since I have the outfit to wear!” Audra nodded her blonde head in agreement. She loved to tease her brothers.

The door opened just then and Janine slammed the book shut, startling Audra. They burst out laughing. “Oh oh, looks like I interrupted something here. Should I go out and knock on the door? My own door?” drawled the cowboy. Janine and Audra looked at each other and giggled.

“Oh Heath, you’re so funny. What are you doin’ here anyway? I thought ya were out for the day?” Heath looked at his wife and his sister who were trying very hard not too laugh. Heath felt like an intruder in his own room.

“Janine, I’m glad we had this visit. We should do this more often. Maybe we can go for a ride sometime?” Janine nodded and told her that would be fun. Audra hugged her sister in law and whispered “Thank you. I’ll remember what you told me.” Janine nodded and hugged her back. Audra picked up the dishes and left the room.

Heath filled up the basin with water, so he could wash up a little from his day out on the range. “So what are you doing home so early, honey?”

“Early? Do ya know what time it is?” Janine shook her head. “Its five o’clock, my pretty!” Janine sat on the bed. Where did the time go? She was stunned. She spent the whole day talking to Audra!

“Gee whiz, Heath! I don’t know where the day went to! We got to talking and the whole day flew away from us! I can’t believe it!” Janine got up and put her arms around Heath, laying her head on his back. “I missed you.” Heath smiled crookedly and turned around.

“I missed you too, honey.” They kissed passionately. “I gotta change my clothes.” He said wickedly.

Janine giggled. “Okay. I’ll help ya.” she answered back just as wickedly. Janine undid his shirt and caressed his chest and put her arms around him. “Mmmmm….this is nice” she purred pulling him down on the bed.

There was a knock on the door and Heath groaned “of all the rotten luck!” Janine nodded, threw on her wrap, opening the door, “Yes?”

“Sorry to interrupt your private time but your parents are here to see you .” Victoria told her.

Janine looked shocked. “My parents? What are they doing here? Thanks Victoria, we’ll be right down.” Victoria nodded, turning to leave, she grinned to herself. To be young and in love, she thought as she descended the stairs.

Janine shut the door and observed Heath still lying on the bed. “Guess any fun is out of the question, honey.” Heath pouted and pulled her to him. She kissed him passionately. “Can’t keep those people waitin’ long. They may disown me if we keep them waiting. Oh wait! I am already out of their will!” They chuckled at that remark and reluctantly sat up. “I’m sorry Heath. Let’s make a date for tonight, k?”

Heath kissed her, “All right.” he expressed sadly. She found his clean clothes, watching him as he dressed. She kissed his back, his front as she helped him dress. “Janey,” he moaned, “we can’t.”

“I know, I can’t help it!” she got off the bed and brushed her hair. Sighing she stated, “I guess we better go downstairs. We know what its all about, so we may as well face the music, right?” Heath nodded, walked over to her, and kissed her passionately. “Heath” she moaned. “Let’s go before we never leave this room!” He gave her a half grin and opened the door.

They walked into the parlor and greeted everyone. “Howdy Mama. Howdy Papa.” They nodded to the young couple. It was an awkward moment then Heath offered everyone a drink. “Yes please”

“Janine, Heath,” started Charles.

“Maybe we should go into the study.” Janine nodded and led the way, “Excuse us Mother.” Victoria nodded at them. Hoping that everything would soon be settled between the four of them soon.

When they were all in the study, Heath closed the door and motioned them to sit down. They chose the settee and Janine stayed standing, she was nervous.

“We thought out everything that was said in the last couple of days. You are right. We didn’t give you a fair chance Heath. You are a good man and my daughter should be proud to be married to someone like you. I trust you with my daughter’s life.” Charles looked at his daughter, “life is too short for grudges, Janine. Can you forgive a couple of old fools?” Marjorie swatted her husband for calling her old.

Janine nodded, glancing at Heath. She went over to her parents and hugged them both telling them, “I love ya both. I guess we’ll have to learn how to compromise some.” Her parents nodded, hugging her. Marjorie held out her arms to her son-in-law, asking him to forgive her for judging him. He held her in his strong, yet gentle arms, and telling her yes, I forgive you. He shook Charles hand while Charles was begging forgiveness. Heath put his arm around his wife, saying that all was forgiven and forgotten.

They filed out of the study with smiles. The Barkleys observing the mirth of the Greenes, offered them drinks and an invite to dinner. The Greenes readily accepted the invitation.

Later, after supper and drinks, the Greenes decided it was time to go home. Janine and Heath walked the older couple to the door, hugging them. “G’night Mama and Papa. We’ll come by soon.” The older couple nodded, and left the house, feeling better that things were finally settled.

Heath closed the door after the Greenes left. He put his arms around Janine and kissed her. “What was that for?” she asked innocently entranced by his eyes. They were so full of love for her.

“For being the person you are. Don’t ever change.” He said huskily . She kissed him then by the door, never wanting to stop. She loved him so much. “Lets go to bed,” he teased her. She nodded in agreement.

The next morning, they entered the house, laughing, and teasing each other, making others laugh at their antics. Heath teased her about being a girl and she teased him about being a brat. They so enjoyed being with each other. They stopped when they realized where they were and saw that everyone was watching them. Embarrassed at being caught at their game, they grabbed their plates and dished out their breakfast, giggling.

“G’mornin’ everyone,” greeted Janine. “Audra, do ya need help organizing that dance?” She winked at Audra.

“Just need help with the decorations, Janine.” She winked back at Janine, smiling.

“I’ll help ya then, just tell me what you need done.” Audra nodded as they ate their breakfast.

“Dance? What dance?” The Barkley men looked perplexed as Audra explained about the Thanksgiving Dance in two weeks. It was for charity she explained. The men nodded thoughtfully, wondering who they were going to bring. Heath didn’t say anything, just nodded, and continued to eat his breakfast. Janine smiled at Audra and nodded at her. “Thank you” she mouthed to her. Audra nodded in understanding.

Victoria watched her family as she ate. The two girls were getting along splendidly. Laughing and giggling together. They both need each other, she thought. It’ll be good for them to do things together, to get to know one another. Yes Heath did himself good, marrying this girl, I have never seen him so happy, so playful. Even Jarrod and Nick seem to appreciate her. What a special girl this one is. She watched as Janine swatted Heath for some remark that he had whispered to her. Those two really deserve each other but are we going to regret having those two joking around with us? She smiled to herself as she took another bite of eggs.

“Come on Heath. We need to go see about those horses.” Heath nodded at his brother, “We can’t dilly dally all day you know!”

“Yeah. Yeah. Yeah. Nick. Don’t get your pants all tied in a knot.” They all laughed at his remark. Heath pushed his plate back on the table, then got up. He walked over to Victoria and gave her a peck on the cheek. “Have a good day Mother,” He told her. He took Janine’s hand and strolled out to the front door.

They went out side and stood on the porch talking. Nick came up behind them and walked past, saying on the way by, “Don’t be too long, lover boy, we have work to do!” Heath grinned at him, telling him he would be as long as he darn well pleased. Janine laughed at the brothers’ bantering, wishing she had brothers and sisters she could tease like that. She had Heath and that would just have to do.

“Well I gotta go, Janey. Before he bellows again.” Janine nodded, not wanting him to go. “Come to the paddock later?”

“I think I will. I have some chores to do around here, and I want to go for a ride with Audra too.” Heath nodded and he put his hands on her hips. He pulled her close and kissed her deeply.

“See you soon, my pretty. Have a good day!” He touched her cheek soothingly, and kissed her again.

“Heath, you’d better go.” she told him forcibly. “I’ll see you later. Be careful on those horses!” He grinned and walked towards the barn. “Love you!” she called after him.

“Love ya too Janine!” He answered with a huge smile on his face.

Later that afternoon, Audra and Janine rode to the paddock to watch the men break the horses. Janine had watched horse breaking before, when she came west, but she wanted to watched Heath break horses. She heard the hands talk about him. She heard the pride in their voices when they spoke of her husband and his way of gentling them. She wanted to see it for herself.

They dismounted their horses and walked to the fence. There were a few hands and Nick watching Heath. They climbed onto the fence beside Nick. Nick put his fingers to his lips making sure they didn’t say a word. They watched in silence as Heath talked gently to the large chestnut mustang. He walked around the paddock, stopping every now and again to say something to the horse. He would start walking and the horse would follow him, nudging him, as if he wanted more attention. Heath turned around and petted him, speaking quietly. Finally he sat on the fence close to the girls and the horse followed him, nudging him. Heath spoke to him in gentle tones, putting a halter on him. The horse bulked at the thought of having something on him, but Heath ignored it, speaking to him. Soon, the horse got used to it and he decided to give the horse a break. He fed the horse some oats and sat on the fence.

“Heath that was incredible! Ya got that horse eating out of the palm of your hand!” Janine was impressed. She had never seen anything like it. Heath jumped off the fence and walked over to the pump. Janine pumped it while he washed the sweat and dirt off of himself. “Where did you learn to break horses like that?” she asked him.

He raised an eyebrow while he dried his hands. “I don’t break their spirit, Janey. I gentle them. Makes them better horses.”

Janine nodded in agreement, “Makes sense, honey. But where did ya learn that? That’s the darndest thing I’ve ever seen.”

“I honestly don’t know. I think I was just born knowing.” He threw her a lopsided smile. “Did ya come to criticize me? Or did ya have something else in mind?”

A smile cast a shadow on her face. “I came to watch you but since ya aren’t doing anything, I’ll be moseying along.” She teased him. She put a kiss on his cheek and turned to go to her horse.

“Janey! Ya aren’t actually leavin’ are ya?” Janine turned around, hands on her hips, noticing that everyone was watching them and opened her mouth to speak when suddenly, everything went black.

When she woke up, she was lying in bed, with Doctor Merar leaning over her. she put her hand to her head and groaned. “W-w-w-what h-h-h-happened?” she asked weakly.

“Shhhh…Janey, don’t try to speak. Don’t ya remember?” Heath was holding her hand, stroking it. Janine said that didn’t remember. He looked at the doctor, who motioned him out of the room. “You rest, my pretty, I’ll be right back.” She closed her eyes, shutting out the spinning room.

Out in the hallway, Howard Merar spoke seriously to Heath. “She has a severe concussion, Heath. The next twenty-four hours will be crucial, she may not be able to walk later, as where she was kicked, was in the spine. Several bones are broken and its lucky that she even survived.” Heath looked at him, his thoughts running wildly through his head. “I’ll be back in the morning to check on her. I’m sorry Heath.” he added as he put his hand on the large man’s shoulder. Heath nodded, composed himself and went back into the room where his wife lay as if in a deep sleep.

Doctor Merar descended the stairs, heavy hearted. He knew the family was downstairs waiting for a prognosis. He hated to tell them of the bad news he had to deliver. Nick and Jarrod stood up when they saw the doctor. “Howard, how is she?”

He looked at the family, such a close knit family, such a tragedy to befall them. He didn’t speak at first, trying to compose his thoughts. Nick looked at him and yelled, “WELL?”

Victoria put a comforting arm around Nick and Audra moved closer to Jarrod. “The next twenty-four hours will be crucial, Victoria. She has a severe concussion. The bones in her back are broken and if she passes this hurdle, she may not be able to walk. That boy of yours is going to need all of your support. She is very lucky to have survived.” He looked at Victoria. She was crestfallen, but she would support this son of her husband’s. They all would. Audra hugged Jarrod while Victoria hung on to Nick for support. “I’ll be back in the morning to check on her. If anything changes come get me. I’ll be at home.” They nodded and Jarrod walked the doctor to the door.

“Thanks Howard, we’ll see you in the morning.” The doctor nodded and walked to his buggy. Jarrod closed the door and composed his thoughts. I need to tell her family he said to himself. To Victoria, he said his thoughts out loud. She agreed with him and he left right away.

Victoria left to go upstairs to be with Heath and Janine. They needed her right now.

Heath sat beside the bed, tears in his eyes. How could this have happened? She was teasing me one minute, the next she was on the ground covered with blood. That damn horse kicked her. She was just standing there and that damn wild horse kicked her through the fence! The tears were rolling down his cheek, Janine, oh my Janine, please be okay! I’m lost without you! Please Janine! He put his head down on the bed and sobbed.

Victoria opened the door, her heart breaking in pieces as she watched this blond blue-eyed son sob over his wife. She went over to him and put her arms around him. “Shhhh…Heath…it’ll be okay.” She told him as she rocked him. “She’s going to be all right. She’s a fighter, I’m sure she has survived rougher roads then this.”

Heath sat up, wiping his eyes, embarrassed Victoria caught him sobbing like a baby. “Sorry Mother. It’s just so hard” He was still holding her hand. She nodded, understanding the feeling. She got up and grabbed the basin with a cloth in it and wiped Janine’s forehead. This was serious, but I won’t break down in front of him. He needs me to be strong.

“Heath, why don’t you go downstairs and have something to eat? Get some rest.” Victoria looked at him imploringly.

Heath shook his blond head. “No, Mother. I need to stay here and see to Janine.” Victoria knew it was useless to argue with him so she nodded. Heath took the cloth from her and wiped his wife’s forehead gently, lovingly. He didn’t say another word to Victoria and kept his bedside vigil over her.

“Jarrod went to get her parents. I think they need to be informed of what happened.” Heath searched Victoria’s face as she spoke then nodded.

“Thank you,” he said simply.

Janine woke up briefly a little while later. “H-h-heath?”

“Right here, my pretty.” He answered, holding her hand.

“Thirsty” Heath gave her a sip of water with a spoon. She groaned.

“Shhhhh. It’ll hurt for a while, but everythin’ will be okay.” He tried to sound confident and hoped he did.

“My head hurts. What happened?” Heath had trouble regaining his composure.

“That horse I was gentlin’ kicked you. I’m sorry honey.”

“Will I be all right?” Heath nodded.

“You rest now. I will stay with you. ‘Member? I said I was going to protect you always. You have to listen to me now, it’s important, all right?”

“Yes Heath. It’s not your fault. I love ya.”

“I love ya too, Janine, my pretty.” She closed her eyes then, falling back to sleep.

Heath sat there, holding her hand, willing her to get well. She had a high fever and was delirious. Victoria, Marjorie and Audra shooed Heath out of the room, telling him to go have a bite to eat. They had informed the others to get Heath outside, to get him to rest. It wouldn’t do Janine any good if Heath fell sick from exhaustion.

He reluctantly went downstairs where Nick tried to get Heath to eat. Heath looked terrible, his eyes were bloodshot from crying and lack of sleep, his face unshaven, and he just seemed lost. Nick was at a loss as to what to do.

“I have to get up there! I have to stay with her!” Heath got up from his chair and started up the stairs. Nick grabbed him as he went by and forced him back down.

“You won’t do her any good if you are sick too, boy!” Nick tried to reason with him. Heath just pushed him down, and headed up the stairs. Jarrod and Charles came out of the study, just then, to see Nick trying to stop Heath from going up the stairs.

Charles motioned Nick to move away from him. Charles took Heath and sat him on the sofa, and put his arm around him. “Heath, my boy, I know how you must feel. She is my daughter, and she will be all right! She married you and she has a lot of life left. Let’s leave it up to God. We won’t do her any good if we get sick, will we?” Charles hoped he was getting through to him. Heath nodded and lifted his head.

“You’re right, Charles.” Nick and Jarrod were surprised that he listened to his father in law so quickly. Heath got up and poured himself a drink. He offered everyone a drink which was accepted. Heath sat back down on the sofa, and closed his eyes. He was sleeping a fitful sleep in a matter of minutes. Nick covered him with a blanket and they all left him alone.

“I’m going upstairs to see how she is,” said Charles. The dark haired men nodded, saying that they would be up in a little while to check on her as well. Charles nodded and left the room very somberly.

He walked into the bedroom and saw his daughter lying very still. She looked very small on that bed. This woman was his daughter and he remembered what she was like when she was living at home. Janine was always a lively child, he remembered, curious about everything. She loved to watch him shave, asked questions about his job, asked questions all the time. She was not comfortable with sitting still. Seeing his daughter lying there, so still unnerved him. It frightened him.

Marjorie saw her husband looking at Janine, she came over and placed her arm around his waist. They stood like that for several minutes. Victoria and Audra kept their vigil over Janine, wiping her brow, and calming her down when she became too restless. Her fever climbed and Victoria was worried. “Audra, go tell the boys to fetch Dr. Merar.” Audra caught the look in her mother’s eye and hurried to do her bidding.

Audra came down the stairs, “Nick! Jarrod!” They came racing out of the billiard room, with Heath right behind them.

“What’s wrong?” Heath ran up the stairs, two at a time. “Mother said to fetch Dr. Merar. Her fever is climbing!” Jarrod offered to go and Nick raced up the stairs to see to his brother. Heath would need him now.

Heath ran into the bedroom, asking, “What’s wrong?” he couldn’t keep the panic out of his voice.

Victoria was calm when she told him her fever had risen to a dangerous level. He could see her thrashing about in the bed, he sat on the bed and held her hand, caressing her face with his other hand, speaking in soft tones. “Janine, it’s me Heath. Please Janine! If you hear me, please settle down! I’m sorry you got hurt honey. It should have been me that got kicked, not you. Oh honey! I should have put that horse in another stable! I’m sorry, its all my fault you got hurt! I promised to protect you and I let you down. Will you ever forgive me?” Miraculously, she calmed down some, opened her emerald eyes and gasped for air. Heath jumped back, not knowing what to do. Marjorie had some experience with nursing and saw this happen before. She told them they would need ice and fast. The fever was taking a toll on her and she need to cool down fast. Heath and Charles watched as the women took the ice that Audra and Nick brought up and covered Janine with it. She shook with the cold. The ice melted and still they got more and covered her with it again. Heath stepped up and wiped her brow, soothing her and himself. He was scared but he wasn’t going to let anyone know just how much.

Nick watched as Heath tended to his wife. It was bittersweet watching him. He wanted to tell his younger brother that things would be all right. He wanted to tell him that she would be right by his side, holding his hand, loving him forever. But he couldn’t. Not when he didn’t know for sure. Nick put his large hand on Heath’s shoulder to get him to relax. The distraught man shrugged his brother’s hand off and kept on working at his furious pace. “Heath, please, sit down, relax. Let Mother and Mrs. Greene attend to her.” Heath ignored Nick’s pleas.

Dr. Merar came rushing in and checked Janine over finding that the ladies did right in covering her with the ice. Her fever had come down and she wasn’t convulsing any more. Her skin had taken on a healthier colour. Everyone sighed in relief, the first hurdle crossed. Dr. Merar decided to stay the night to keep a closer eye on her.

“Heath you need to rest, my friend. I know you don’t want to leave your wife, if you have a cot, you can set it in here. Maybe you’ll rest if you’re in the same room.” Dr. Merar checked Heath over. “You’re exhausted. Please Heath, you don’t want to be ill. Your wife needs you to be healthy now.” Heath nodded and Nick offered to get the cot for him.

Nick set the cot up for his brother, Jarrod set the blankets on the cot. Victoria got everyone to leave the room to get their rest. Victoria said she would be back in a couple of hours to check on them both. Heath nodded and laid on the cot. He waited till Victoria left then pushed the cot closer to the bed. “Janey, my pretty, this is the first time since we were married we slept apart. I miss you so much. Come back to me, my pretty! Let me make it up to you. We can go riding and camping to Indian Springs. Christmas will be here and I want to spend it with you. We have some presents we need to get, ‘member?” Heath grasped her small, tanned hand in his large, tanned one. “Janey, I love you. Please don’t leave me. I’m not ready for death do us part, yet!” His voice broke and while he sobbed, her hand fell out of his. He didn’t notice as she lifted her hand and put it on his head. He had fallen asleep.

A couple of hours later, Victoria came in to check on Janine and saw that he had put the cot right next to the bed. He was laying on his side, as close to his wife as he could, her hand resting on his head. Victoria checked Janine’s forehead and found that she was cool. She covered her up then went over and covered him up as well. She gave him a kiss on the cheek and quietly went out of the room.

Marjorie came in a little while later to check on her daughter. She sat on the side of her bed and whispered to her. “please Janine. We have a lot of years to make up for. Don’t leave us yet. I love you daughter, and I’m sorry I was such a bad mother.”

Janine moved around a little and opened her eyes. Her head hurt so much. “Mama.” She whispered, “thirsty” Marjorie gave her a sip of water and Janine silently thanked her. “Heath?” Marjorie nodded her head towards the sleeping man. Janine couldn’t move her head but she moved her hand to touch him, to feel him. Heath woke up then, seeing his wife awake, he grinned at her.

“G’mornin” Janey!”

“G’mornin’ Heath.” she said quietly. “Mama can I have a drink? I’m awful thirsty.” Marjorie gave her a sip of water.

“How are ya feelin’?” asked Heath full of concern. He sat up and looked at her. Her pretty face was swollen, her hair was in her eyes.

“How do you think I feel?” she snapped, immediately regretting her harsh words. “I’m sorry Heath. I didn’t mean it. I feel horrible!” she added quietly.

Marjorie left the two alone, deciding to go find the doctor. Janine closed her eyes as the room was spinning violently around here. “Can you stop the room from spinnin’ Heath? It’s making me sick!” Heath moved to the side of the bed and brushed the hair out of her eyes.

“I’m sorry, Janey, you have a concussion. It makes the world spin. Trust me, I’ve had a few.” Janine tried to nod but it hurt too much. “Don’t try to move honey. Makes things worse.”

“K Heath. Did I tell you that I love ya?”

Heath nodded, “I think I heard that rumor somewhere.” He kissed her gently. “Ya rest some more, k, Janey?”

“Yes Heath.” She closed her eyes and fell asleep again.

She slept for the whole day, only waking up for something to drink and to see who was watching her. Her head hurt, the room spun, so it was easier just to close her eyes and sleep. Heath sat by her side the whole time, the only time leaving for something to eat and to stretch his legs. Dr. Merar said she was out of the woods so far, but only time would tell if she could walk or not.

A week went by and Janine was looking better. Her parents went home, promising to be back the next day to check on her. “Heath can I get out of bed, yet?” she begged him. He had been putting her off, telling her it was too soon yet. She agreed only because her head hurt. “Can I just sit by the window? I want to see the outside, feel the breeze on my face. I miss outside.” Heath knew how she felt. He hated being stuck in bed too.

“We have to check with Dr. Merar, first before we do anything. I wouldn’t want ya hurting yourself anymore than ya are!”

Janine groaned, “I wanna get up Heath Barkley. Now let me out of this bed!” she threw off the blankets intending on getting up. Heath reached over and pushed her gently back. “HEATH BARKLEY, LET ME OUT OF THIS BED RIGHT NOW!”

Heath calmly pushed back into bed, drawling, “Boy howdy Janine! If ya yell at me again, I’ll not let ya out of this bed ever!”

Janine started crying. Heath tried to hold her but she pushed him away. “Go away Heath. I don’t like you right now!” Nick came running into the bedroom when he heard Janine yelling.

“Heath, Mother needs you downstairs right now!” Heath looked at Nick, knowing he was lying, but he looked at Janine and left the room. That woman had a temper on her!

“Now Janine” said Nick in his most serious voice, “Why are ya yelling at your husband like that? I think the devil himself could hear ya!” Janine wouldn’t look at Nick. “Oh come on Neen. Look at me! You have to stay in bed, ya hear? I want ya well so I can get even with ya. I can’t let people know I was beaten by a WOMAN in a game of billiards!” this made her smile.

She looked at him shyly. Nick took her hand in his own large, callused hand. “Neen, you hurt Heath’s feelings. I don’t like it when you do that. He loves you very much. Did you know that he spent every waking minute with you when you were unconscious? Did you know that he feels guilty ‘bout you gettin’ hurt? Did you know, he let that horse go?” Janine did not know any of this.

“All I wanted to do is sit by the window, Nick! It’s not like I asked for the world!” Nick nodded.

You have to wait for the doc’s permission, Neen. We really don’t wanna hurt ya anymore. Please don’t yell at Heath anymore! He feels bad enough as it is.” Janine sobbed as Nick was talking to her. Nick used his other hand to caress her face. “I love ya Janine, you’re my sister, my friend, and ya love my brother. That makes me very happy because ya make him very happy.” He pulled her into an embrace. “Besides that I saved your life, ‘member? Ya owe me!” He pulled her away and grinned at her. “Are ya ready to see him yet?”

“Nick, ya just keep saving me from myself, how come?”

“I told ya, you’re my friend and I love ya!” She hugged him back. She then kissed his cheek and laid back.

“I love ya too Nick. You’re a good friend and great big brother! Now go get my husband. I think I owe him an apology. Oh Nick?”

“Yes?”

“I like the name you gave me, Neen. Ya guys come up with some pretty nice nicknames for me.”

“You’re welcome Neen. I’m off now that my job is done.” He smiled his big toothy smile at her.

“Thank ya Nicky.” He kissed her cheek and left the room in search of Heath.

Janine laid back on the bed. Something was wrong, she could feel it. Heath was acting strange towards her. She understood now that Heath was feeling guilty about the horse. That wasn’t his fault. It was just something that happened. There had to be more to it. She closed her eyes, trying to rest. Her head still hurt some but it was getting better. Its only been a week. Dr. Merar was going to be here tomorrow. I guess I can wait that long. Boy howdy, Heath must be real mad at me! She started sobbing. All I ever do is cry these days. I just wanna get outta bed!

Heath was downstairs having a drink, thinking about what had happened. Janine was just frustrated, that was all, he told himself. I would react just the same if it was me. Heath poured himself another drink and was deep in thought, when he felt a hand on his shoulder. He turned around to face his brother, Nick.

“What ya doing boy?” Nick poured himself a drink.

“Nuthin’ Nick. Why ya askin’?”

“No reason, just thought I’d ask. Janine is quite the lady, wouldn’t ya say?”

“Yeah she is. She’s a courageous lady to go all through what she did and now this.” Heath stopped to think. She went through that bad marriage, traveled by horseback across this country, married him, she deserves something for her bravery. “Nick, how am I goin’ to tell her she may never walk again? How are we going to cope with this?” Heath started to shake, scared what the future is going to hold for them.

“I don’t know Heath. But if you really love her, I mean really really love her, you’ll find a way and make it work. She is scared, Heath, and she needs ya. She knows something is wrong but doesn’t know what. If I were ya I’d tell her soon!”

Heath nodded, “you’re right Nick. I guess I’d better go up and see her. Thanks for talkin’ to her. You’re a good brother.”

“So you keep tellin’ me! If ya don’t go up there soon, I’m gonna have to knock some sense into ya!” Heath gave him a lopsided grin and cuffed him lightly on the chin. He put his drink down on the table and went upstairs.

He walked into their bedroom quietly and saw that she was sleeping. He looked around the room and noticed a lot of things he took for granted. The pictures she so lovingly collected, their wedding picture. They made a handsome couple, he reflected. The picture of her parents taken on their wedding day, the picture of his mama. He saw that her clothes hung neatly in the closet alongside of his own, nice and neat, the books they read together, Hamlet, Romeo and Juliet, Tom Sawyer, A Tale of Two Cities. They read together every night. It was a ritual they enjoyed. He walked over to the dresser and saw a piece of folded paper. He unfolded it and read:

Heath:

I just wanted to tell you how much I love you. I love you more and more each day. I love the way you look at me. I love the way you respect me. I love the way you treat your family. I love your attitude for life. You are a good person Heath Barkley. Don’t ever forget that. You’re my reason for living, my joy of life. Don’t ever change. I love you for now and ever!

Your loving wife,

Janine Marie, your pretty

Heath looked over at his wife who was still sleeping. He folded the note and put it in his wallet. He would keep it forever.

He took his boots off and sat on the bed, picked her hand up and kissed it. He laid on the bed on his side, caressing her face, loving the softness of it. She was awake but pretended to be asleep. She loved the feel of him next to her. She gave an involuntary groan making Heath smile. Heath moved closer, kissing her hair, stroking it, loving the silky feel. Janine couldn’t keep up the pretense any longer. She opened her eyes and saw him looking at her. She put her arms out and he snuggled between them, knowing she couldn’t turn over. He brushed the hair out of her eyes and kissed her gently. Her face was wet with both their tears. He kissed her over and over, whispering her name. Janine just squeezed him to her, not wanting to let go.

After a while he stopped, searching her face for any sign of pain. “Ya didn’t hurt me Heath, don’t worry.” Heath smiled lovingly at her and kissed her again.

“I have something to tell ya, my pretty.” Janine observed his face, knowing what it was he needed to tell her. She knew from the minute she woke up. She didn’t want to hear the words, but he needed to tell her. She put her finger against his lips.

“Hold me Heath. I wanna feel ya. I can’t feel ya. I’m scared.” Heath held her tightly in his arms.

Heath sat up, letting her lean against him. “Honey, I’m scared for ya. I’m so sorry this happened. I feel so guilty for that horse kickin’ ya.” Janine leaned against his chest listening to his heart beat.

“Don’t Heath. It wasn’t your fault. You didn’t know it was going to happen. It was a freak accident. It could’ve happened to you just as easily.” Heath never thought about that, he was too busy feeling sorry for himself. “How do you feel, really, Janey? Don’t yell at me anymore, okay?”

“I’m sorry I yelled at ya. I’m just frustrated at having to stay in bed.” Heath nodded. “Heath is there something else?”

Heath nodded. He didn’t know how to tell her. Janine watched him wrestle with his emotions. It must be serious, she thought, he looks so miserable. “ Janine, can you feel your legs?”

“I can’t move them, Heath.” she replied. She was going to be brave. She wasn’t going to cry. She mustn’t cry.

“Honey, some bones in your spine were broken. The doctor says you may not be able to walk.” Janine couldn’t look at his face. To do so, it would mean she would cry. She would not cry. “Janey, look at me, please?” She shook her head, she was having trouble keeping herself from breaking down. She didn’t want to upset Heath anymore then he was. “Janine Marie Barkley! You look at me! Don’t try to deal with this yourself!” He cupped his hand under her chin and lifted her face to his. She couldn’t hide the tears anymore. She held him tight, her body shaking. Heath sobbed as well, not knowing what the future was going to bring them.

They stayed that way, holding each other for hours, till they were exhausted and fell asleep. Victoria came into the room, knocking first, when she didn’t get an answer, she walked in. She placed the food she brought for both of them on the table and left again, smiling at them huddled together on the bed.

They woke up the next morning, refreshed and more sure of their love for each other. Heath woke up and kissed his wife awake. She kissed him back and told him to leave her alone, she was still sleeping. He kept teasing her. She tried ignoring him, but he wouldn’t leave her alone. Finally she opened her eyes and looked at his blues ones staring at her. “Heath! Gee whiz! If I gotta stay in bed, you can at least leave me sleep!” she scolded him. He chuckled at her.

“Did anyone tell you that you’re mean when you first wake up?” He caressed her face. He kissed her nose, her hair, and nuzzled her neck. Then he kissed her passionately on the lips. “Are you hungry, my pretty?” she nodded. “I’ll go round us up some chow, then, all right?”

“K Heath. Can I sit in the chair today by the window, please?”

“Janey! Dr. Merar will be here this morning. We will ask him then.” Janine pouted. Heath kissed her on the forehead and got off the bed. “Be back with breakfast,”

Dr. Merar came while they were eating their breakfast. He looked at her head, checked his stitching, listened to her heart, lungs, checked her legs, back. “Well my dear, it looks like you’re getting better. It’s been a couple of weeks now, I think I can reward you with getting out of bed for a little while at a time.”

“Ya mean I can get up and sit by the window? Can I go downstairs and out of this blasted room?”

Dr. Merar nodded. “Only for an hour or so at a time at first. Can you move your legs at all, Janine?” She shook her head no. “The bones in your back seem to be healing well. I cannot say for sure, if you will walk again or not. Sometimes people do after this type of injury and sometimes they don’t.”

“I’m gonna walk again Doc. I am!” Heath looked at his wife with pride. With her determination, she would walk again, he was sure of it and he would help her accomplish this goal, anyway he could.

The kindly doctor packed up his bag, getting up, observed the couple, “I believe you will walk again my dear! I believe you can if you set your mind to it!” With that he was out the door and down the stairs.

As soon as he was out of the room, Janine started in on Heath. “Oh please Heath. Let me out of this room. Please!” she was pleading.

Heath was amused. “Just let me finish my breakfast first all right?” She crossed her arms and pouted. Heath loved teasing his wife. He finished his breakfast, then pulled a chair closer to the window. He went over to the bed and gently picked her up. She put her head on his shoulder as he carried her over to the chair. He set her in the chair, wrapping a blanket around her legs. “Comfortable?” he asked.

She nodded, “Can you open the window?” Heath opened it and she smiled as the cool morning breeze flew over her. She sighed. “Thank you Heath. I’m sorry I’m such a pain”

“You’re not a pain, Honey. I’d do anything for ya, ya know that. You sit here for a while, then you’ll have to lie down. A little later, I will take you downstairs, okay?”

“K. Heath. You are too good to me.” She grinned at him. He pulled up a chair beside her sitting his large frame into it.

“I know it.” He chuckled, “But you deserve the best.” He grasped her hand, and held it while they stared out the window.

It was the night of the dance. Everyone was getting ready. Heath and Janine were going to go for just a little while. Janine wanted to go see what the dance was going to be like and who was going to be there. Heath agreed, saying that they would just stay for a little while. “You’re such a mother hen Heath. I’m fine!” She chuckled, enjoying his mothering. Janine enjoyed teasing her husband, but she would only push him so far. Heath took the teasing, was very patient with her, and teased back, pushing only so far. They both knew where the limits lie before one of them got angry.

Janine would not let Heath help her dress, instead she called Audra to help her. She wanted to surprise Heath with her new outfit bought specifically for the dance. She would call him in a little while later, after she was dressed. She had been practicing standing up, her legs getting stronger. Something else she didn’t let Heath on. She wanted to surprise him when she could take a step or two on her own. Jarrod had been helping her with this little surprise.

“Thank ya Audra. I appreciate you helping me surprise Heath. Do I look all right?” Audra nodded and buttoned her dress for her.

“You look beautiful. The boots look lovely.” Audra looked at her shyly. “You remember what we were talking about a while ago, ‘bout Danny Sanderson and me?” Janine nodded. “He apologized to me, told me he didn’t know what had gotten into him. He asked me to marry him and I said yes.”

Janine hugged her, “Are ya sure Audra? This is what ya want?” Audra nodded. “Then I’m happy for ya! When are ya going to tell everyone?”

“Thanksgiving dinner, I invited him here and we are going to tell everyone then.”

“I’m so happy!” They hugged each other. “Ya look so pretty Audra. I’m sorry I couldn’t help ya with the decorations for the dance. I was looking forward to it.”

“That’s okay Janine. I understand you had other things on your mind.” She grinned then sobered. “How are you feeling now?”

“I have my days where I just want to give up and stay in bed. It’s a lot of work just being up and about some days. Heath has been wonderful, too wonderful at times. He drives me crazy! But he is learning to let me alone. He wanted to stay home and not go to this dance. But I insisted.”

Audra giggled. “I’ve heard some of your disagreements, you two are really something you know that?”

Janine nodded, “Can ya really hear us argue?” Audra nodded. “I guess I will have to learn to quit yellin’” They both laughed at that when Heath walked in.

“Am I gonna have to start knockin’ when ya two are together? Are ya ready, Janine?” The two girls laughed at the look on his face.

Audra got up to leave, leaving Janine sitting on the bed. “Thanks Audra.”

“Your welcome, sis. See ya at the dance.”

Heath looked at his wife and whistled, “Janey, you’re beautiful!”

Janine blushed, “thank ya Husband. I’m ready to go, are ya?” Heath picked up his wife and kissed her passionately. “Keep that up and I may change my mind about the dance, Mr. Barkley.” He chuckled. He kissed her again, while she wrapped her arms around his neck and returned the passion. “Come on Heath! We’re gonna be late”

Heath carried her down the stairs. Everyone observed the couple as he gently set her down in the wheel chair. Jarrod winked at her, saying, “You look lovely sis!”

“Why thank ya, big brother!” She blushed from the compliment. Nick whistled and complimented her as well. “Audra will be down in a few minutes. Sorry for making her wait to get dressed” They all told her that it was fine.

Victoria came down the stairs just then, ready for the dance. Audra came down soon after. The men complimented them, saying they felt out of place with such beautiful women. They all laughed, and left the house, heading for the dance.

The dance was wonderful. It was adorned with paper flowers, streamers, a banner that read Happy Thanksgiving. All of Stockton was at this dance and everyone was having a grand time. There was plenty of food and drinks for everyone.

Nick and Jarrod were out on the wooden dance floor dancing with some local single ladies and enjoying themselves. Heath was asked several times to dance, but he preferred staying by his wife. Janine finally told him to go have some fun and not to worry about her. Heath finally decided to dance with Harriet Simms. Janine watched her husband, covering a yawn. She was helping at the food table, serving, and talking with everyone. Heath came back a little while later, and asked if she wanted to go soon. She nodded, admitting that she was getting a little tired.

They arrived home a little while later. Heath drove into the barn to put the buggy away, he set Janine onto a bale of hay while he unhitched. She hated watching, she loved to help him do the most menial of tasks. He took the chair out of the buggy, and set it beside Janine, helping her get into it. he then took care of the horse. Finally he was done and he wheeled Janine into the house.

“Heath?” They were in the house and all was quiet.

“Yeah, my pretty?” Heath was busy turning on the lamps making it bright.

“Did ya know this is the first time we have been alone together in this big house?” Heath smiled. He had thought of that.

“I know. What are we going to do about that?” They smiled knowingly at each other. Heath walked over and picked Janine up in his strong arms. She placed her head on his shoulder as they walked up the stairs. He went to their bedroom, and placed her gently on the bed. He closed their door, sat back down on the bed and took off his boots. Janine watched silently as he moved closer to her, taking her in his arms once again.

“I had fun tonight, Heath. Thanks for taking me to the dance. I wish I could’ve danced one with ya. Maybe next time, right?” Heath nodded, it was nice to see her smile. He caressed her face, hair, and smiled at her.

“I had fun too, Janey. I’m looking forward to the next dance. You and I will dance then.” She raised her face up to look into his eyes. She caressed his smooth face and pulled him closer to her. She raised her self up a little bit, and kissed his neck, his cheeks, nibbled on his ear. She hugged him tightly, not ever wanting to let go. He returned the kisses, feeling the same way.

The next morning, the family was getting ready for church. Heath was outside, hitching up the wagons when he heard a voice up above him. “Hey Cowboy!” He looked up and saw his wife leaning out the window, smiling at him. “You ‘bout done?” He nodded up at her, then went back to hitching up the wagon. “Cowboy! Ya ignorin’ me?”

Heath sighed and told her, “no, I’m not ignorin’ you wife! I’m tryin’ to get this buggy hitched!” He heard a giggle from her and he went back to hitching the horse.

“K when ya done I wanna come downstairs!” The window shut and all was silent. Heath shook his head and chuckled to himself, that wife of his can be demanding when she wants to be! He finished hitching up the wagon and went into the house to change his clothes.

He entered the house, going up the stairs to the bedroom that Janine and he shared. Janine was sitting in the chair, waiting for him, frustrated with herself. She had walked by herself to the chair then tried to walk back to the bed. She fell, skinning her knees, crawled to the chair and stayed there. She didn’t look at Heath when he entered the room.

He walked over to her, kissing her neck. She shrugged him off and sulked on her chair. Heath lifted her out of the chair and placed her gently on the bed. “What’s the matter, honey? Are ya mad at me?” She shook her head no and looked at her knees. The dress was torn where she had fallen.

“I’m not goin’ to church.” She stated simply refusing to meet those blue eyes. Heath tried to put his arms around her shoulders. She moved away from him. “I’m not goin’ to church as God has forsaken me. He is punishin’ me for some reason by not lettin’ me walk so I’m not goin’ to church.”

Heath sat there, not knowing what to say. He had felt this way many times, when he was trying to decide what to do with his life. “Honey, we won’t go to church if you don’t want to. But please don’t feel that way.” When he grasped her hand, she didn’t pull away.

“I’m so angry Heath! I want to go out and ride Titan! I want to go for a walk with you! I want to WALK!” He pulled her to him, and she hit him with her fists on his chest. She realized what she was doing, looked at her husband and sobbed.

There was a knock on the door just then, Victoria walked in. “We will be ready to go in five minutes Heath.” she announced.

“Y’all go on without us. We aren’t going today. Sorry Mother.”

She looked at the couple, saw her torn dress, understanding why they were staying home, “All right Son. We’ll be back soon.” Heath nodded, holding the weeping woman tightly.

“Janine, honey, don’t cry. Talk to me, please!” He held his wife for a long time. Rocking her, trying to get her to calm down, “I love you Janey. Please, I can’t say I understand how you feel, but ya mustn’t give up. Ya mustn’t. You have the courage, the will power. Ya will walk again. I know ya want to and I know if ya really really worked at it, ya will walk again.”

“Heath I have tried, my legs just don’t want to co-operate! I’m so angry. I’m frustrated! Why is God doing this to me? Why Heath? Why?” She did her best not to cry. She hated that she cried all the time.

Heath held on to her and stroked her silky strawberry blonde hair. He thought about the question for a while before he answered. “I can’t pretend to know the answer to this question, I am as confused as you are honey. But we can’t dwell on what has happened, it happened, nothing can be done about it. What we can do is work on the future, we have the power to change things. We have to accept what is. If we accept this accident and not work at being well, then you’ll always be in a chair. We can fight it and learn to walk and do the things we’re used to doing. We can thank God for sparing your life, that’s a blessing. We can thank God for bringing us together.” Janine listened to his words spoken in his sweet drawl. She nodded, what he was saying was just right. What she needed to hear. Heath put his hand on her knee and fingered the rip in her dress. “Ya tried to walk today?”

“Yeah Heath. But I fell and scraped my knees and it made me mad. I just wanted to do things on my own. I hate askin’ for help all the time. You have better things to do then tend to me all the time. It bothers me that I’m takin’ you away from your work.”

Heath hugged her tightly. “I don’t mind honey. I love ya. I love takin’ care of ya. Now it bothers brother Nick. I think he would like to take care of you as well as Jarrod. They love ya too. They love havin’ you around as much as I do.” He chuckled. “Nick told me to tell ya he wants to play pool with ya as soon as you’re able. Apparently he thinks he can beat ya now.” Heath grinned at her. “Do ya think he can?”

“We’ll have to see. I think I’ll be able to beat him in my chair still!” She giggled at this thought. “Yep I think I’ll challenge him later. What do ya think?”

Heath nodded, “Yep. I believe you can do anything you put your mind to! Are ya goin’ to get angry every time somethin’ goes wrong?”

Janine thought about this, “no Heath. I guess I’ve been a little selfish, expecting everything to be exactly the same when I know it’s been changed. Will ya forgive me?”

“I’ve forgiven ya many times over, my pretty. That’s what being in love means.” He kissed her forehead. “and I love you”

“Oh Heath! I’m such a fool at times! Sometimes I wonder why ya married such a fool like me!”

Heath chuckled and kissed her, “Sometimes I wonder too!”

Janine slapped his arm and gasped mockingly. “Gee whiz! I wonder who the bigger fool is, you or me?”

Heath went out on the range, leaving Janine to her own devices all week. That meant a lot of ingenuity on how to get around on her part. She decided she would only ask for help only when absolutely necessary. She enlisted Jarrod’s help when he was around to help her walk. He was very patient with her. She was getting better on her feet and could walk a few steps. Jarrod found a cane in the attic for her to use, but she was still having problems with the stairs. She made him promise not to tell anyone about this as it was to be a secret until thanksgiving, just a few days a way.

The stairs proved to be a big problem. Jarrod told her to hold the rail and use the cane, going down the stairs slowly. She did that the first few times, almost slipped, but Jarrod walked beside her and caught her before she got hurt. After trying for quite a few hours, one day, she finally mastered the stairs. She told Jarrod to go to the bottom of the stairs and wait for her. He did, and watched as she made her way down, holding the banister and using her cane. When she made it down, he gave her a hug and a kiss on the cheek. Now she was ready to show off to everyone.

Thanksgiving day was a rainy day and everyone was inside. Heath left Janine upstairs while he went to do something outside. Jarrod stopped by her room watching her walk around. “Jarrod when its supper time, come tell me. Don’t tell anyone what you’re doing. Then go back to the table and wait for me. Make up some excuse why Heath can’t get me. Like I’m not hungry or something.” Jarrod nodded. He was pleased with the effort she put in walking and was making good progress.

That night Jarrod came to her door to tell her that everyone was waiting for her. She nodded. “I told Heath, I wanted to bring you down tonight. I hope you don’t mind.”

“Okay Jarrod. But go down and tell him that I decided I’m not coming down. I’ll be down in a few minutes.” Jarrod nodded and left the room.

She followed him out the door, cane in hand. She was nervous. What must Heath think of her, missing out on thanksgiving dinner? He is going to be surprised! she surmised.

She stood at the top of the stairs, nervously, waiting for Jarrod to look at her. He nodded his head and she slowly made her way down the stairs. Jarrod watched her, then everyone turned to see what he was staring at. Heath made a move to go to her but Jarrod stopped him with his hand. Janine descended the stairs, paying close attention to where her feet were going. She got to the bottom of the stairs and walked steadily over to her husband, who held his hand out to her. She grabbed it, pulling him into her loving embrace.

“Honey, you did it!” he whispered into her ear. “I’m so proud of you!” Everyone congratulated her.

She turned to Jarrod, saying, “Thank you Big Brother, I couldn’t have done without you!” She left Heath to go to him, wrapping her arms around his waist and kissing him on the cheek

Heath pretended to be jealous at his big brother and punched him on the arm. “Thanks big brother,” Jarrod nodded, and pretended to be hurt after that punch in the arm. Then Heath shook his hand, and pulled him into a brotherly embrace.

Nick took Janine aside, saying, “I challenge you to a game tonight. Be there and bring your money. Oh by the way, congratulations!” He pulled her into a hug, “You could’ve asked me, you know!” Janine giggled and tried to get out of his embrace.

Audra invited Danny Sanderson for Thanksgiving supper. After Janine surprised everyone coming into the parlor on her own. They decided to wait until the actual meal to make their own announcement.

They sat down to the table, and before everyone had filled their plates with the delicious food that Silas had so eagerly prepared, Jarrod said Grace. It was a short prayer but meant from the heart. Everyone had tears in their eyes when he was done.

“Thank you Dear Lord,

for the food we are about to eat.

Thank you for the friends and family you graced us with tonight.

Thank you for the memories we are about to create.

Thank you for the happiness you brought to us.

In your Sacred name, I ask this blessing,

Amen”

Every one started dishing up their food to their plates, and Audra spoke up loud and clear. “Danny and I have an announcement to make.” Janine smiled at her sister-in-law and friend. She grasped Heath’s hand as Audra and Danny told the family they were going to get married in the new year. There were smiles and congratulations from everyone.

They went around the table giving thanks for things through out the year. Victoria was thankful for her family, Audra was thankful for her family, friends, her new fiancé and the love she was surrounded with. Jarrod was thankful for his family, the love he was surrounded with, his work. Nick was just thankful for everything. Everyone chuckled at his remarks about thanking the ranch. Heath was thankful for all the changes this year brought. His wife, his marriage, his family. Janine was thankful for her new husband, her marriage, her reconciliation to her parents, and now the ability to walk again.

I hope the next year will be just as wonderful, she thought as she smiled at everyone, through her tear filled eyes.

THE END