The Year of Discontent

by Leona

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

This story deals with mature subject matter. If you are easily offended please do not read this story.

Summer on the Barkley Ranch was always busy. They had branding to do, calving to tend to, horses to break, fences to mend. It was never ending. They often rounded up the herd of cattle and moved them from one part of the ranch to another. The ranch was very productive along with the orchards and vineyards. It was home and all the Barkleys loved it.

Heath loved the ranch life. He had many jobs during his thirty-three years, but ranching was one he loved. He loved the feel of the Californian breeze on his face, and he loved the horses, especially. When he was a young boy, growing up in the small mining town of Strawberry, he had been told that he had a special way with horses. He was gentle with them, didn’t use unnecessary force when breaking them. He liked the cattle and all the work that went with raising cattle but horses were his forte.

His life was good now, not like those early days when he first came to the ranch. He was content, because he was married and had a child. His wife, Janine, loved him with reckless abandonment, and there wasn’t anything she wouldn’t do for him. His daughter was a beautiful, precocious, two year old. She was the love of his life. Ever since they lost their baby boy just about a year and a half ago, they turned all of their affection to Leah. They have given up all hope of having another brother or sister for Leah, so they looked to the orphanage for help.

He was thinking all of this when he rode on the range, feeling sentimental. He decided to go home early to see his family. Janine would be surprised but he often came home early to surprise her. He would stop and pick a bouquet of wildflowers. He loved to see her smile and her eyes fill with love for him. He pictured her in his mind’s eye, smiling, her curly strawberry blonde hair blowing in the breeze, standing in the door way watching him as he rode in. Beside her was their daughter, an identical image of her mother, except with blonde hair, running out to meet her father. The image made him smile. He loved being a husband and a father.

He rode up to their house, happily, and saw Janine out in the garden. Leah was playing in the yard, at her picnic table having a tea party with her dolls. Since she didn’t see or hear her father, he watched with interest as she poured them all tea. He took Charger to the barn, turning around to see Janine standing there watching him. He winked at her and motioned her to come over by him. She glanced back at Leah, who was still playing, and went into her husband’s arms. They stood there for a while, then went out to see Leah.

“Is this a private party or can anyone join?” teased Heath

“Papa!” She got up excitedly and ran to her father. Heath lifted her up and hugged her. “Pway?”

“Sure honey” He eased his large frame onto the picnic table bench. He picked up the tiny teacup and held it out for Leah to fill it. Janine smiled at her husband and daughter playing. Heath didn’t have much of a childhood so he made up for it when it came to Leah. He always made time for her, no matter what he was doing. Janine felt guilty that she couldn’t give him any more children so they brought home a child from the orphanage to spend a week with them during the summer.

Janine went back into the garden to pick some peas and carrots for supper. She listened to Leah’s childish laughter at her father when he pretended to spill the tea all over himself. She smiled and congratulated herself for marrying such a wonderful individual three years ago. She picked all the vegetables she needed and went into the house to start the evening meal.

She heard the door open and her husband’s quiet drawl as he spoke to Leah. Leah went upstairs and he came into the kitchen to speak to Janine. He put his arms around her waist and kissed her neck. “I love ya, my pretty” She leaned back into him, trying to ignore his insistent kisses but eventually she turned around and put her arms around his neck.

“I love ya too, Heath” She answered, kissing him back. “How was your day?” He grabbed a carrot before answering.

“Not too bad. I missed ya today so I thought I’d come home early.”

“Awwwwww…..you’re so sweet” gushed Janine blushing. Heath couldn’t believe she was still so shy with him. It was a trait he found enduring. She was about to hug him again when Leah came bounding down the stairs.

“Mama! Papa!” Leah stared at them both demanding their attention.

“What is it Sweetie?” Janine asked her.

“Hungy”

“Me too Mama!” Janine smacked a towel at them both and pointed to the counter. There were apples, oranges, and cookies there. Heath reached over and picked an apple for them both. “I’m going to go get cleaned up. See you in a bit, Janey.” He kissed her and bounded up the stairs followed by his shadow.

“Wide Papa?” Leah asked her father in a loud voice. Janine giggled when she heard Leah’s voice and Heath’s answer of “Okay piggy back ride when I’m done” She started supper, then looked out the window as she was peeling the potatoes. The chickens were clucking, pecking the ground, looking for food. She could see the fruit trees she and Heath planted two years ago. They were getting big and this year may even produce fruit as they had plenty of blooms on them. They even had a small vineyard, with red and green grapes just for personal use. They left the wine making to Nick, Heath’s older brother.

She heard a giggle behind her and little hands covered her eyes. “Guess who?”

“Well gee I don’t know. Could it be…umm. The Queen of England?”

“No” Giggle, giggle

“Papa?”

“No” more giggles and a snicker

“I give up! Who is this?”

“Mama! It’s me! Leah!” Leah uncovered Janine’s eyes and laughed. Heath and Janine laughed along with her. Janine put the potatoes on to boil and set the table with their help. She loved days like this. Total family togetherness, it was heaven to her.

Later on that night, after the dishes were done and Leah put to bed, they sat outside on the porch swing. Heath put his arm around her shoulders and she lay her head on his shoulder. They talked about their day and other unimportant issues. “Heath?”

“yeah?”

“I love ya”

“I love ya too”

“Heath?”

“Yeah?”

“Is Kelly coming to stay with us next week?” Kelly was one of the teen age children from the orphanage.

“I reckon so. Audra said that there is a baby that just arrived. A little boy. Did you want to go see him?” Janine sat up and looked at her husband.

“Oh yes! Can we Heath?”

He nodded, “his parents were killed in a wagon accident just a few days ago. The baby has no kin that they know of, so the rescuers brought the baby to the orphanage.” Janine nodded.

“That poor baby losing his parents like that! Let’s go see him tomorrow.” She leaned back against Heath’s shoulder with his arm wrapped around snugly around her. He kissed the top of her head. They sat there for a while longer lost in their thoughts. Janine yawned, almost falling asleep where she sat. Heath nudged her, telling her it was time to go in. She sat up, stretched and nodded. He helped her up and held her hand as they entered the house, securing the door. They checked on Leah before retiring to the bedroom.

They talked quietly after finishing the chapter in their book. They spoke of the future and what it held for them. They turned out the lamps and snuggled together waiting for sleep to make its nightly appearance. Janine was excited about the baby and what it would bring to their household.

The next morning, they were up early as was their custom, with Heath fixing breakfast. Janine got Leah up out of bed, and played with her a little bit before bringing her downstairs. “Mama, pway me?”

“K daughter. What do ya want to play?”

“Hide see”

“Okay you hide and I’ll find ya”

“No see Mama”

“I won’t peek” Janine smiled at her and closed her eyes. Leah quickly found a place to hide. “Here I come Leah. I’m gonna find ya!” She searched all through the room, and pretended like she couldn’t hear the giggling coming from under the crib. Heath had come upstairs to tell them that breakfast was ready but couldn’t help watching the scene being played out in front of him.

“Leah, oh Leah, where are ya? I lost my Leah!” Janine pretended to cry and Leah came out from her hiding spot.

“Here Leah is! Leah not lost!” Janine took her hands away from her face and attacked Leah with some tickling. They were laughing when they heard a voice from the doorway,

“Breakfast is served my pretties.” Both of them looked at him, surprised that he was there.

“Heath! How long have you been standing there?”

“Long enough!” He helped Janine off the floor and picked up Leah for her ride down the stairs. They all sat down at the table eating the scrambled eggs, bacon, and toast that Heath had prepared.

After breakfast, Leah sat on the sofa looking at a book while her parents did the dishes. After the morning chores were done, inside and outside, they got ready to go to the orphanage. Leah loved playing with all the children, enjoying the time she spent there.

They arrived at the orphanage, apprehensive about the reason why they were there. Heath helped Janine and Leah out of the wagon, going inside looking for the padre.

He was busy with Audra looking after all the children. Leah found her favorite friends and soon took off playing with them.

“Hi Heath, Janine. What brings you here?” queried Audra curiously. They were watching Leah play with the children.

“Well…ummm…well..” started Janine suddenly very shy.

“Audra is that baby still here, the one that was orphaned just the other day?” asked Heath.

“Why yes he is. Are you interested in taking him home? That would be wonderful!” Audra went over to the nursery where the lone baby lay.

He was so tiny, just a few months old. Too young to lose his parents so tragically, thought Janine who had reached over to pick him up. She cuddled him close and looked to Heath. “Has he any relatives who can claim him?” asked a nervous Janine.

“None that we can see. We know his parents were just moving here as the wagon was full of furniture and personal belongings. His parents were of Italian descent, according to some papers that were found on them. We can get Pinkertons to get any information we can on the family.” The Padre came in observing the couple holding the baby.

“He is a good baby, Heath. He needs a good family to look after him. Would you like to take him home?” Janine once again looked to Heath who was unsure of this himself.

“What if you find relatives for him? Will we have to give him up?” Heath worried about getting too attached to a baby then having to give him up. That would be hard on Janine, he thought, as he was asking questions.

“Yes Heath possibly. There is a slight possibility that we may never find any kin for him. There may be a slight possibility that if we do find anyone related, they may not want anything to do with him. If you want to take him home and take care of him, please feel free to do so.” Heath looked at Janine who had already taken to the baby and nodded.

“Thanks Padre for bein’ so honest with us. Let me discuss it with Janey and get back to ya in a few minutes. Janey, give the baby to Audra for a few minutes. We need to talk.” Heath watched as Janine gave the baby back to Audra. They went outside for a few minutes to discuss what the padre had told them. “Janey are ya sure? We may have to give him back to his family. It’s goin to be tough if that happens.”

“I know Heath. But he needs a home and love, both of which we can give him. If we have to give him back, I’d be happy that we did somethin’ that would benefit the baby even just for a little while. I won’t feel good if we leave him here.”

Heath nodded, knowing he felt the same way. “Okay, Janey, if you’re sure.” Janine nodded, knowing if family did show up for the baby it would be difficult to give him up.

They made arrangements to take the baby home with them that day. Heath gathered up Leah, explaining to her that they were bringing home a baby to stay with them for a while. Leah was delighted. “A baby? Mine?” Her parents chuckled, knowing this was going to take some explaining to a two year old girl.

When they got home, Heath dug out the bassinet that was Leah’s and cleaned it out. He set it in the room next to theirs and Janine lay the baby in it. He’s so cute, thought Janine. She left him sleeping and went downstairs to see about supper.

Heath and Leah were outside, feeding the animals and collecting the eggs. Janine started supper then went to check on the baby. He was awake so Janine picked him up, taking him downstairs. She warmed up a bottle and was feeding him, making supper at the same time when Heath came in. He gently took the baby from her while she finished with supper. Leah helped by setting the table.

“Come eat, Heath, Leah.” Janine took the baby and sat at the table. Leah sat at the table, waiting for her father to put some food on her plate. They said Grace and finally started to eat.

“Leah don’t play with your food,” admonished Janine

“K” Leah kept stealing glances at the baby. “Baby eat?”

“Baby had a bottle. That was his supper.”

“Oh.” Leah looked at the baby. “baby seep?”

“Pretty soon, baby will sleep.” Leah nodded her head and concentrated on eating. Heath watched this exchange, not saying anything. He was hoping that Leah would not be jealous of the new baby.

After supper, Leah helped with the dishes while the baby slept in the playpen that Heath found after supper. Leah wanted to play with the baby, but they had to explain that he was still too small but she could be a help in other ways. Leah tried to understand, but it was hard. Janine sat on the sofa, picked up the mending and sewed as Leah played a quiet game of dolls. Heath picked up the checkerboard and asked Janine if she wanted to play. She put down the mending, thrilled to be doing something else. “Sure” she said, a little too enthusiastically.

Heath gave her a sideways glance and set up the board. He gave her a slight smile and told her to go first. They played a game, then it was time for Leah to go to bed and the baby woke up for his nighttime feeding. They went upstairs to put Leah to bed. Heath fed the baby while Janine read Leah a book. She finished the poetry book and covered Leah up. She gave Leah a hug and kiss, “Night Mama. Night Papa. Night Baby”

“Night Leah” They turned the lamp down on low and put the baby in the crib in the room next to theirs. They held hands and walked down the stairs. They went out to sit on the porch swing and discussed their day. They snuggled together, observing the stars. “See that group of stars there, Janey?” She nodded, “That’s the constellation called Orion.” Heath never failed to amaze her with the knowledge he had acquired over his thirty three years.

“Heath?”

“Yeah?”

“We need a name for the baby. We can’t keep callin’ him baby.” Heath smiled and nodded. “I was thinkin’ of David.”

“Sounds mighty fine to me, my pretty.” He hugged her tightly. “If they find family for him, are ya really goin’ to be okay with givin’ him up?” Heath waited patiently for an answer from her.

“I don’t know Heath. But I just didn’t feel right leavin’ him in the orphanage like that. We will cross that bridge when we come to it.” Heath nodded, knowing how she felt, as he was enjoying having the baby around too.

The next week was busy, having two kids to worry about, both Heath and Janine taking turns in entertaining both. On Sunday they went to the main house for Sunday dinner and visit. Nick and Janine were enjoying their pool game together while Victoria and Audra gushed over the kids. Jarrod had gone to San Francisco, for an important case he was working on, so Heath watched his wife and brother play.

“Nick! How come you missin’ all the easy shots?” Janine teased her brother-in-law.

“Neen! That was no easy shot and ya know it! I bet ya couldn’t make that shot!”

“Bet? Did ya say bet?” Heath smirked at her remark, she was good at pool and she enjoyed letting Nick know it. Nick gave Heath a defeated look.

“No Neen. I don’t wanna bet. Let’s get this game over with so I can beat Heath. At least him I know I can beat once in a while!” Janine took her shot and it missed.

“What? Ya missed a shot? Whatever is the matter with ya?”

Janine shot him a mischievous look but didn’t say anything. Nick took his shot and was finally on the eight ball which he called and missed. Janine finished sinking all her balls into the right pockets and sunk the eight ball into the right pocket. “Twenty dollars brother!” Nick grumbled something as he handed her the money. “What was that Nick?”

“I said, Heath married a winner when he got you!” There was laughter from the room when this was announced.

“Thank ya, Brother Nick. I appreciate the comment. It means a lot when it comes from you!” Nick racked up the balls and motioned to Heath to come play. Janine handed him the cue and gave him a kiss for luck. Nick scoffed at them and told him to play. Heath blushed, taking his shot.

Janine sat down meanwhile to talk to Audra and Victoria who were entertaining the kids. “Aunt Audwa, wead me?” Leah was asking her.

“Sure honey. What would you like?”

“Wapunzel”

“Okay sweetie. Let me see if I can find it.”

“Pwease, Aunt Audwa” Audra found the book and set Leah on her knee while she read the book to her. Victoria rocked little David till he fell asleep. Janine felt a little left out as her kids and her husband were all busy doing something else. She listened to the story, and spoke quietly to Victoria about David and what a good baby he was. She also told Victoria of all the accomplishments that Leah was making herself, how she helped with the chores and what a big girl she was getting to be.

A while later, they got ready to leave, as Leah was getting sleepy. Leah asked her father for a piggy back ride to the buggy all the while giving everyone a hug and kiss. “Bye Unca Nick. Wove you. No mad Mama, k?”

He chuckled at his niece, “I’m not mad at your mama. We like to play mad.”

“Oh. That good, Unca Nick. Night.”

“Night Honey.”

With that they left the main house making their way back to their own house. They spoke very little on the way home, both lost in thought about their day. They put Leah and David to bed then went outside to relax a little and enjoy the coolness of the night. Tomorrow Kelly would be arriving for a couple of weeks as well as Steve, another orphan boy. It would be a busy couple of weeks.

The next morning was a busy one. They rose up early and started their morning chores early. Heath had to go to the orphanage early, picking up Kelly and Steve, dropping them off and going to work with Nick. There was a lot of work to be done there as there was some animal disturbing the cattle and they had to go hunt it down. That meant late nights for the ranchers.

Heath arrived with the teens saying he was off to the ranch taking Steve with him. Kelly came in the house, following Heath and Steve who were bringing the valises in with them. Heath apologized about leaving so soon, but Janine waved him off, having to contend with a two year old and a baby. “Bye Papa.” Called Leah sweetly while waving. He waved back and they took off to the main ranch.

“Come on Kelly. We have some things that need to be done.” Kelly sighed and followed her in. Janine observed the red hair teen quietly not saying anything. Its hard being a teen she thought. I will have to pay extra attention to her.

“And how are you doing Kelly? I sure am glad you’re here. Is there anything special you want to do?” Kelly glared at her. She hated being here. She wanted to be on her own.

“No” she said sullenly.

“Okay. Well I need to get the crib out of David’s room and put it in ours. You’ll be sharing a room with Leah since Steve will be with us too. Can you help me with that?” Kelly didn’t say anything to her but went upstairs with Leah. Janine followed along behind, leaving David asleep in the bassinet downstairs. She opened the baby’s room, “this is where Steve will be sleeping,” and entered. The room was immaculate. Kelly followed along behind, dragging her feet. They dragged the crib into the master bedroom and put it by the window. “Now I have to get the cot. Would you keep Leah company while I do that?” Kelly nodded her head and went to the little girl’s room.

“Wead me Kewwy?” Leah shoved a book into the older girl’s hands, not really giving her a chance to say anything. Janine chuckled and went to the attic to grab the cot. She should really wait for Heath to do it, but she didn’t know what time he would be home. She dragged the cot down and managed to get it set up in David’s room. There that’s better, she thought.

“I’m goin’ to make some lunch now girls. Any offers for help?”

“No” came the answer from the older girl

“No” echoed Leah copying Kelly.

“Okay. Have fun girls.” She went downstairs, wondering about Kelly and her sullen mood. She made some soup and sandwiches, hoping silently that Heath would be home. Knowing that was wishful thinking, she set the table and called the girls. They came running down and sat at the table. At that moment, David woke up, demanding his lunch as well. Janine sighed, putting lunch on the table and went to pick up her new son. It was going to be a long day, she brooded.

By the time supper time rolled around, Kelly had both kids amused and seemed a little more happier. Janine got the supper on the stove and sat down to feed David. “So Kelly, how’s things goin’ for ya?”

“Not bad, Mrs. Barkley. I can’t wait for the time when I can move out on my own. Will be another year.” Janine nodded. She understood her sullen mood now. She was biding her time but she didn’t have to like what she had to do until that time.

Janine got up to check on supper, when the door opened. “Mr. Barkley!” Kelly was happy that he was home. He nodded, looking very tired. Steve walked in behind him, and Heath told him to go on up and have a bath. He shook his hand and patted his back, thanking him for a job well done. This brought a smile from the large boy, as he ran up the stairs.

“Papa! You home!” Leah jumped into her father’s waiting arms and Heath laughed as his daughter tickled him with her hair. “I miss you” she said.

“I miss ya too, lil one. Were ya a good girl?”

“Kewwy wead me. Kewwy nice.”

“She did? That’s good, Leah. Where’s Mama?” concerned that Janine hadn’t come to meet him yet, he was curious to know where she was. Leah pointed to the kitchen. “cookin’. Feedin’ baby.” He nodded and put Leah down. “How was your day, Kelly?”

“Not bad. Better now, that you all are home.” She swooned. Janine called Kelly and Leah to help her with the table. Kelly got up, sighed and went to help. Heath went to grab David from a very weary Janine. He gave her a kiss as he took the baby from her arms.

“Sorry I didn’t meet ya at the door, Heath. Too much going on here today.” She gave him a tired smile. She put her arms around his waist and hugged him, not caring that he was still dirty from being out on the range all day. “I did miss ya though.” She whispered pressing her lips against his.

“I missed ya too, my pretty.”

“Mr. Barkley! Mr. Barkley!” came a female voice out in the living room. Janine sighed, turning around to check the supper.

“We’ll talk later,” he said as he took David and went to see what has happening in the living room. “What is it?” asked Heath, sitting down with David and Leah plopped beside him. “Aren’t ya ladies supposed to be helping Janine with setting the table?”

“Oh yeah. Sorry Mr. Barkley. Come on Leah. We’d better do as your father asks.”

Steve came down stairs at that time and said hello to Janine. She managed to give him a smile, replying, “Howdy Steve. How nice to have you in our home. I hope you like roast beef, as it is almost ready. Can you tell Heath that he needs to get cleaned up now. Thank ya” Steve nodded at Janine and left to tell Heath that he was done.

After the supper was eaten, the dishes done and the younger kids were put to bed, Heath and Steve had a game of checkers while Janine picked up her mending. Kelly sat on the sofa, mesmerized by the game. “Kelly do you want to crochet? You can make some mittens for the children at the orphanage.”

“No.” snapped Kelly.

Heath glanced up at Kelly, and said something about her attitude. “Sorry Mr. Barkley. I meant no thank you Mrs. Barkley. I don’t like to crochet.”

“That’s okay Kelly. If you’re gettin’ tired, ya can go to bed anytime.”

“Thank ya Mrs. Barkley. In a while I will. I wanna watch this game first.”

“All right, Kelly.” Janine put her mending down and watched her husband play. They hadn’t much time to themselves tonight and she was missing their quiet time. Well this is what I wanted, was a busy household, right? she admonished herself.

After the game was finished, Steve got up and announced he was going to bed. Heath nodded and told him they would leave earlier in the morning. “Breakfast is at seven.”

“Okay Mr. Barkley. I’ll see ya in the morning. Night Mrs. Barkley.”

“G’night Steve. See ya in the mornin’. Pleasant dreams.” Steve went upstairs and they heard the door close. Heath motioned to Janine for a game. Just as he did so, Kelly mentioned that she would like to play. Janine sighed and let their ward play. She would have plenty of time to talk to him later.

After the game was over, Janine yawned, glancing at Heath. Kelly caught the hint and said good night to Heath but didn’t say anything to Janine. “G’night Kelly. Pleasant dreams” Kelly stopped in her tracks but didn’t say anything. She continued on her way up the stairs then they heard the door shut.

“We are alone at last,” sighed Janine, stretching then strolling over to her husband.

“Yep we are.” replied Heath. She reached out a hand to him and led him outside to the swing. Heath pulled out his rolled cigarette and lit it, putting his arm around Janine drawing him closer. “I missed ya tonight, Janey. You’re so quiet.”

“I missed you too. It’s hard to say anything when there are so many in the house. But I can’t complain. This is what we wanted, right?” She snuggled closer to him, wanting to feel the warmth and love that radiated from his body.

“Yep, we did. How was David today? Was he cranky?”

“Nope. He was good, but he did sleep most of the day. Kelly helped out with Leah so I could get some things done.”

Heath nodded. “That’s good. Kelly sure is indifferent to you.”

“Yeah I noticed that too. She sure seemed to perk up when you came home though.”

“Give her time Janey. She just needs to get into a routine.” Janine nodded and lay her head on his shoulder. “You should see Steve work. Boy howdy, he is a good worker!” Janey smiled, and nodded.

“Good to hear honey. Leah was good today too. She was a big help in helping me move stuff around in David’s room, making room for the cot.”

“Did you move that cot by yourself?” she nodded. “Janey! I told you not to do things like that. I don’t want you hurting yourself!” Heath lifted her chin to make her look at him. “You won’t do that again, will ya?”

“No Heath, I won’t. I’m sorry but I wanted to get it done before ya got home.” She batted her emerald eyes at him. He couldn’t resist that look and kissed her deeply. “I love ya”

“Let’s go in and get some shut eye. I am plum tuckered.” Janine giggled and sat up. Heath got up holding out his hand for her to take. They made sure the house was secure, turned off the lamps and went upstairs.

They got dressed for bed and read their chapter book. They turned out the lights and waited for slumber to overtake them. Janine rolled on her side, unable to sleep. “Heath?”

“yeah?” came a mumbled reply.

“Are ya sleepin’?”

“Not anymore.” Heath drew her closer. “What’s wrong?”

“I don’t know. I just can’t sleep. Must have been an exhausting day.” She hugged him tight, kissing his cheek. “I’m sorry I woke ya. Go back to sleep”

“Janey! You’re goin’ to be the death of me yet! Go back to sleep.” He grumbled into her neck and kissed her. She giggled. “Ya woke me up, now ya gonna pay for it!” He released some seductive kisses while she returned the favor. After a while, their passion spent, they fell asleep.

The next week went by quickly and soon it was Saturday. Janine was putting the baby to bed, while Heath went outside to do some chores. Kelly followed him, chatting with him out the door. She had seemed to settle down, but still snapped her answers to Janine whenever she asked a question.

With David finally sleeping, she took Leah outside to see her father and to work in the garden. Each year her garden grew and she had lots of things growing in it. Leah sat down under the tree, seemingly didn’t want to see Heath. That was unusual, she adored her father, often following him all over the property. Janine decided to go see what Heath was up to in the barn. She walked to the barn, and saw a scene she had never anticipated.

Kelly was hugging Heath, and trying to kiss him passionately. Janine stood in the door, quietly, while Heath gently pushed her away. “Now that isn’t the way ladies act, Kelly.”

“But Mr. Barkley, you gotta know that I love you!” the girl wailed

“Ya don’t love me Kelly. Ya only think ya do.” Heath was getting frustrated at this situation and hated it. He was at a loss at what to do. When he was single, he often had women proclaiming their love to him, even a few teenagers. Now he was married, with children, and nothing he said was going to make her listen. She was all over him. At first he thought it was cute and didn’t think much of it but now it was getting out of hand. When she tried to hug him again, Janine cleared her throat.

“Kelly, go help Mrs. Barkley. I don’t need your help!”

“Kelly can ya help me in the house for a minute please?” Heath gave his wife a pleading look but Janine turned on her heel and headed into the house. Her emotions were all askew. She had no idea what she was going to say to her but she wanted the girl out. Today. Now.

Kelly gave Heath an unhappy look and left the barn, very slowly, looking down to the ground. When Kelly reached the house, Janine was seething but she controlled herself. She was the adult here and she had to act like one.

“Sit down Kelly.” demanded Janine. Kelly sat down on the settee, slowly, not knowing what was going to happen but whatever it was, she was ready. “What were ya thinkin’ Kelly?”

“Nuthin’!” answered the girl.

“Why were ya throwin’ yourself at my husband?” Kelly shrugged and didn’t answer that one. “WELL! DON’T YOU HAVE SOMETHING TO SAY FOR YOURSELF?” She was getting frustrated. “Look, if ya don’t talk to me, I can make life real hard for ya. DO YOU UNDERSTAND?”

“LOOK LADY! YOU’RE ALL HIGH AND MIGHTY, TAKIN’ US POOR LITTLE ORPHANS IN. MAKIN’ LIKE YOU’RE ALL IMPORTANT! WELL YOU AINT! YOU AINT YOU HEAR ME?” Janine stiffened at the attack. She didn’t have anything to say. “I love your husband Mrs. Barkley. And he loves me. He hasn’t told me, but he will. He doesn’t deserve the likes of you. I may be only sixteen, but I know what I want and I want your husband.” Kelly sat down, satisfied she put Janine in her place. “I will do what you say. I will leave your husband alone. For now. I only have a week left here then I will be back at the orphanage and out of your hair. But never far from your thoughts and when you least expect it, I’ll be back.” Kelly was indignant in her speech, leaving Janine little time to prepare for the attack.

“One week, Kelly. Behave yourself for one week. You will do what I say, and when I say. Then I want you outta my face and outta my life. Have I made myself clear?” Kelly nodded just as the door opened. In walked Heath and Leah, talking quietly. “Kelly get David for me please. He looks to be awake. He’ll need his bottle.” Kelly gave her a glance and did what she was told, not looking at anyone. Janine made her way upstairs.

“Leah, you go with Kelly. Help her with baby, k?”

“K Papa. Wove you.”

“Thanks Lil One. I love ya too” He gave her a kiss and sent her to see Kelly. He went upstairs to talk to his wife. This was too important to let go. He slowly opened the door to their bedroom and saw his wife lying face down across their bed. Her body wracked with sobs unable to stop. “Janey?”

“Go away! I want to be by myself!” She cried into the pillow but Heath sat on the bed, stroking her hair. She turned on her side and stared opaquely at him. “I’m sorry Heath. I’m acting rather childish.” She reached out to caress his face. “I should remember that she’s only sixteen.”

“Janey, ya have every right to act the way ya did. I’m sorry about this. I knew she had a crush on me but I never thought she’d act upon it. I shoulda stopped it before it got this far.” Janine peered into his eyes seeing the pain that she caused him.

“I’m sorry Heath. I shoulda seen it comin’. She’s always so unhappy when she’s around me. Then when ya come home she’s as happy as a lamb. Like ya, I never thought she’d act upon her feelings. I made her a deal so hopefully she’ll leave ya alone. It’s only another week, Honey.” Heath nodded, trusting his wife’s judgment.

“K, my pretty. Now dry your eyes and let’s go downstairs. We have three kids down there.” Janine smiled slightly, and took his hand. Things would be okay, as long as they always talked about their problems. Heath and Janine had one thing in common, when it came to their problems, they kept inside and stewed about it. Then when it was all solved in their minds, only then they would talk about it. This was a first for them.

They went downstairs and found Kelly reading a book with Leah and David. Kelly glanced up at them, then went back to reading, ignoring them both. Janine went into the kitchen to make some lunch and gather her wits for the afternoon. Heath sat down to listen to them taking David away and holding him.

“Lunch everyone” Janine said without much enthusiasm. Everyone sat down and dug into the meal she prepared. Egg sandwiches and homemade beef soup, one of Heath’s favorite lunches. Heath winked at her making her blush.

Kelly saw this and frowned, he’s not supposed to wink at her. She ate her lunch angrily but didn’t say anything. She made a promise but she’d get back at her. She finished her meal and cleared off the table without asking. The front door opened and in walked Steve.

“Howdy Steve!” greeted Heath, “How was your visit?”

“Fine Mr. Barkley. Is there anything I can do for you this afternoon or help you with?” He sounded sincere in his question. Heath glanced up at him and thought for a few minutes.

“Actually I wanna build a fence at the end of the North pasture, wanna help me?” Steve nodded. “Okay just let me help Janine with a couple of things. You can go out to the barn and load up the wagon with the stuff we need. Its all in the far corner.”

“Okay Mr. Barkley.” He went outside to gather up the things they needed.

“Papa! Papa! Wide?” Heath picked Leah up and swung her on his broad shoulders. “Wheeeee! Fun Papa!” He chuckled and walked past Janine. “Mama! Wook me! Papa wide me!” Janine giggled at the sight of father and daughter playing.

“Be right back my pretty!” Heath took Leah for a ride around the house settling her down on the settee. Kelly was sewing on a blouse that she was making. “Very pretty, Kelly” he complimented.

“A lot you care,” she mumbled. Heath ignored her comment and asked her to keep an eye on Leah for them while they did the dishes. She glanced at him sullenly and nodded. One more week she thought.

Heath went into the kitchen and picked up a towel to start drying the dishes. “Ya don’t have to help Heath.” She told him truthfully.

“I know I don’t Janey. But I wanna. I like helpin’ ya.” Janine did not say anything but kept washing the dishes. “I love ya”

“I love ya too” she blushed at him. They finished the dishes, Heath lied the towel on the table and drew his wife close to him. He kissed her passionately leaving her breathless then held her close. They stood there for a while until an argument broke out in the living room. Janine sighed and kissed him passionately, “Gotta go break this up.” She kissed him again. “I don’t wanna though.” She pulled out of his protective arms and went into the living room.

“What’s goin’ on in here?” She demanded with her hands on her hips.

“Mama! Kewwy mean.” Leah stared defiantly at Kelly. “me hurt”

“Ya hurt Kelly?” Leah shook her head and showed Janine her arm. There was a long scratch on it. “Go see Papa. He will fix it for ya” Janine stared at Kelly. “Why did ya do that, Kelly?”

“Cuz!” she retorted.

“That’s not an answer young lady!” She was furious with this girl.

“Because she is a spoiled little brat!” Janine was just about to lose her patience when she heard a drawl from behind her.

“Janine, David is awake and Leah needs you.” She turned around to face him and he stepped back. He had never seen such a look on her face, it scared him.

“Thank you Heath.” She turned around to face Kelly again and glared at her. Heath put his hands on her shoulders, gently pushing her towards the playpen where David lay. She picked up David and went to fetch him a bottle. Leah followed her, sucking her thumb. “Come on Leah. We’ll go upstairs and feed baby.”

“Kelly. I wanted to talk to ya about your attitude. I know you think ya love me but that’s wrong. I love my wife and no one will ever change that. Not you. Not anybody. I didn’t appreciate ya hurtin Leah like that. How dare ya!” Kelly looked at Heath with such contempt in her brown eyes.

“I don’t care. She is such a spoiled brat. Always getting her own way. She has you wrapped around her little finger. I hate her, I hate Mrs. Barkley and I hate this stinkin’ house. I wish I had never seen you!”

“You’re goin’ to have to change your attitude! You’ll be here till next Saturday. I want ya to behave or I’ll take ya back myself. Do I make myself clear?”

“Very!” She stood up to get away from him but he touched her arm. She looked at him differently then. “Okay Mr. Barkley. I’ll behave myself. But this isn’t over yet. Not by a long shot!”

Heath left the house after checking on Leah and Janine. He and Steve went out in the pasture to mend the fences out that way. They didn’t come back till late. They ate a late supper and played with the kids for a while. Janine took them upstairs, bathed them, read them a book and put them to bed.

When she went downstairs an hour later, Heath and Steve were involved in a game of checkers, and Kelly was working on her blouse. Janine brought coffee out for everyone plus some dessert. She picked up her mending and listened as they good-naturedly teased each other. Janine smiled at Heath as she looked up from her mending. Her eyes full of love for him. He glanced at her when she was sewing, thinking of all that they had been through. Their relationship had changed over the three years since they wed. They endured a lot of hardships but their love always pulled them through it.

Steve won that game of checkers and decided to go to bed. They were going to church in the morning and he was tired. He said good night to everyone and dashed up the stairs. Kelly finished sewing the cuff on her blouse and put it away. “Night Mr. and Mrs. Barkley”

“Night Kelly. We’re goin’ to church in the morning. Please make sure you’re ready.”

“Yes ma’am.” She headed up the stairs and they heard the door shut after a bit. Janine put her mending down. Heath motioned for her to play a game of checkers with him. She grinned and set her black checkers up.

“Ya really think ya can beat me? Huh?” she laughed haughtily at him.

“I reckon. Remember, I’m not Nick! I’m a little smarter than him.” He grinned at her, grasping her hand. They played one game, which she won. They played another which he won so they had to play another to see who was the big winner.

It got down to the end pieces. Heath jumped three of her pieces and won the game. “Okay! Okay! You win.” He pulled her over to sit on his lap and kissed her.

“Am I better than ya?”

“No!” He kissed her so that she was breathless. “You’re not going to get me to say that you’re better then me!” He rubbed his burly face into her neck. “That’s not going to work Mr. Barkley!” She said breathlessly. She got up and ran outside. He followed after her and caught her. She laughed and struggled to get out of his powerful arms. He picked her up, carrying her to the swing. She sat there while he rolled his cigarette, then absentmindedly put his arm around her, drawing her close. She lay her head on his shoulder, loving the feel of his muscular body. She sure was lucky to have this man for her husband. She snuggled closer while he smoked.

“Janey?” She looked up at him.

“Yeah?”

“Ya know I love ya, right?”

“Yeah”

“I’d do nothin’ to hurt ya. Ya know that, right?”

“What’s wrong Heath? Of course I know that. Ya don’t have to tell me.”

“I know. I’m just a little upset with the incident today.” Janine sat up and stared at him. “I tried to stop her Janey. She’s pretty smart and I have a feelin’ she might try somethin’ after she leaves here.” Janine sat up and faced her husband, caressing his face.

“Heath, lets not borrow trouble. There is a week left. I have a feelin’ she’ll behave herself and not bother any of us again. Don’t worry about earlier. I know you tried everythin’ you could to stop her. She is sixteen and headstrong. Much like I was, I think which makes it all the harder.” She watched her husband struggle with his emotions. “Heath, look at me.” He lifted his head and she saw such pain in his eyes. “It’s not your fault, Heath. I don’t blame ya. I love ya and will stand by you forever. Please lets put this incident behind us. Please Heath?”

He nodded and drew her close. “Let’s go to bed, my pretty. I’m beat.” She kissed him and nodded.

Sunday was designated as family day. It was a day for them to get to know one another, and do things together that they didn’t do during the week. Today they decided to have a picnic after church with Heath’s family. They set up the picnic area by the river, with Heath building another two tables. The family was growing, Audra finally married Fred a month ago. She still came over to visit quite often with Janine going over to visit her.

Jarrod was bringing his fiancée Jenny Kwan. They had met while he was trying her brother’s case in Sacramento earlier in the year. They were inseparable from the first time they laid eyes on each other and Jarrod asked her to marry him, soon after.

Nick was also bringing a girlfriend, Chelsea Sutton. They had met while Nick had been getting supplies in town. She worked in the feed store with her parents and Nick couldn’t keep his eyes off of her. They were all hoping he would ask her to marry him soon. She was good for him.

Janine was thinking of this as she was getting David up for his breakfast. Leah came in the bedroom, rubbing her eyes. “mornin’ Mama.”

“Mornin’ Leah. Did ya have a good sleep?”

“Yeah. Papa?”

“Papa’s getting breakfast, why don’t ya go down and say mornin’ to him?”

“K mama. Wove you.”

“Love ya too sweetie. Tell Papa I’ll be down in a few minutes. Ask him for baby’s breakfast.” She was out of the room and down the stairs faster then Janine could blink. Janine chuckled as she brought David downstairs to feed him his bottle.

Kelly and Steve got up a little while later, and they all ate breakfast together. After the dishes were done, Heath got the carriage ready so they could all go to church. They would come right home to get ready for the picnic with everyone coming a little later. Janine so loved days like these.

The picnic area was set up in the shade of the big willow trees that adorned the property. They had made a cooking pit with rocks so it sat about two feet off the ground, it was fairly large and Heath had put an oven in it as well so they could cook roasts on the open fire. There were now three long tables with benches along side the banks of the river, and if the weather did not co-operate Heath had built a shelter they could move into. They enjoyed their little picnic area so much that sometimes they stayed the night.

Heath loaded up the wagon with the things they needed and headed off towards the picnic site, taking Leah and Steve with him. Kelly and Janine would be down in a while as they still had some things to do. Janine made an apple pie, a cake and some other desserts to bring. Victoria and Audra would be bringing some food as well, so no one would be going hungry.

The group at the river got bigger as everyone arrived. Heath had to go back to the house and get another table to set all the food on in the shelter. Nick, Chelsea, Jarrod and Jenny talked together and poured wine for all the adults. Then they poured lemonade for the younger crowd. Nick set up a game of horseshoes and was teaching the others how to play. Audra and Fred were the last to arrive, bringing with them salads, wine, and some steaks for everyone.

Leah went around to her relatives, chatting to all who would talk to her, ignoring Kelly. She was still very angry at her for hurting her. “Hi Gama Vic. You good?”

“Yes sweetie. I’m fine. How are you?”

“I fine Gama Vic. Up?” Victoria picked the girl up, and brushed the curls out of her face. “I wove you.” Leah gave her a kiss on the cheek. She saw her Uncle Nick and asked to be let down. Victoria chuckled at her granddaughter and put her down. “Unca Nick. Wide?” Nick picked her up and swung her on his shoulders. “Whee Unca Nick!”

Chelsea watched Nick with interest. He is very good with children she thought with a smile. Leah giggled as Nick took her down and flew her through the air. “Unca Nick, down. Pwease!” She said in between giggles. Nick placed her gently on the ground. “tank you Unca. Wove you” Nick bent down and placed a kiss on her cheek.

“Love ya too Leah” He went over and stood by Chelsea, stealing kisses from her when he thought no one was looking.

Kelly watched all this with amusement. She went over to Steve and put her arm around his waist. He looked at her in surprise and moved away. She moved with him, wanting something from him. “What’s the matter Steve? Don’t you like me?” she whispered to him.

“Kelly leave me alone, will ya? It didn’t work at the orphanage and it ain't gonna work here!” Steve stalked off, leaving Kelly fuming at the whole situation. She really couldn’t wait till she left the orphanage. Too many rules, she thought grimly, nobody likes me or pays attention to me. Well I’ll teach them, especially Mr. and Mrs. Barkley!

The rest of the picnic went well. Everyone played games, horseshoes, charades, gossiped and ate. David slept a lot and when he was awake, he was passed from relative to relative. He was as loved as Leah, and was just as contented. Jenny and Chelsea loved being with the family. Jenny talked to the others about her and Jarrod’s wedding, which was to be in a month and she was getting nervous about it. Chelsea said in a secretive tone to the others that she wished that Nick would ask her to marry. They had been going out for a few months and made no secret of her feelings toward him.

Slowly the day ended and it was time to go home. No one wanted to leave but it was Sunday night and there were jobs to go to in the morning. They cleaned up the picnic area, put their belongings in the wagons thanking Heath and Janine for the great day. Janine promised them they would come and visit soon. They waved, flicked the reins and went home. Steve and Heath loaded up the wagon with the things they brought, while Janine took the other wagon she brought.

The week passed by quickly, with nothing out of the ordinary happening. Heath and Janine put the incidences of the last weekend out of their minds. They focused on their children and tried making Kelly happier. Janine gave her some crafting projects to do when she had time and some baking to do. Kelly seemed to enjoy being in the kitchen. She helped with the cooking but still refused to help with the general cleaning. Janine didn’t care though, she just wanted to get the week over with and Kelly out of their lives.

Saturday rolled in with a thunderous crash. Janine sat up in bed and almost cried out when she realized it was just thunder. The rain was pelting down in torrents. Janine sighed and snuggled closer to her husband, throwing the covers over her head. She never liked storms as they reminded her of her life with her former husband. Heath sighed in his sleep and automatically drew her closer, kissing her hair. Janine curled herself up in his body, letting his warmth envelop her. She couldn’t go back to sleep so she lay there, trying not to wake Heath.

She heard a door close so she got up to check who was wandering around in the middle of the night. She checked on Leah, and seeing that she was sleeping soundly, she checked Kelly. She was shocked to find that the bed was empty. Janine stole out of the room and checked downstairs. It was possible she was just hungry or thirsty. She looked around downstairs and didn’t see her. She made her way up the stairs upon hearing a door shut again. She stayed on the stairs watching as Kelly came out of Steve’s room buttoning her nightdress. She waited till Kelly went into her room then quietly went back to bed. Heath was moving around, indicating he was on the verge of waking up.

Janine slipped into bed, quietly, careful not to wake Heath up. She was not ready to discuss with him what she had seen. She laid there, listening to his shallow breathing, relieved that he had fallen back to sleep. She snuggled closer to him, and kissed him, lightly on his chest. He stirred and moaned softly. Not caring now if he was awake or not, she smiled, kissing him again near his neck. He wrapped his arms around her pulling her on top of him. She kissed his chin, his cheeks, and finally his lips. He hungrily sought her tongue, hands roamed her body, lifting her nightdress over her head. She moaned quietly while her hands roamed his body. He groaned, waking up, and their passions got the best of them. After a while, their passions spent and both wide awake, they decided to get up.

After checking on David and Leah, they got coffee and sat on their verandah watching the sun make its daily rise in the eastern sky. Janine took Heath’s hand and caressed it. “I love ya Heath Barkley.” She said lovingly.

“I love ya too, my pretty.” She had to tell him what she saw in the middle of the night but was unsure of how to go about it. She observed Heath, her emerald eyes filled with an emotion he couldn’t decipher. It was a cross between fright, and confusion. He searched for a reason for this look on her face. Seeing he wasn’t going to find one, he waited for her to speak. “What is it Janey? Why ya lookin’ at me like that?”

“Oh Heath! I saw somethin’ last night and I don’t know how to tell ya!” she blurted out but quietly. Heath looked at her, stunned.

“What did ya see Janey?” He took her shaking hand and caressed, trying to calm her down.

“Kelly! Kelly was comin’ outta Steve’s room buttoning her nightdress!” She burst into tears as she really didn’t know what to think. She kept her voice down low, as she didn’t want to wake the rest of the house yet. Heath ran his hand through his sandy blonde hair, not knowing what to think. He had to take the both of them back later on today and then their lives were to be back to normal.

“Are you sure about this Janey?” She nodded slowly. She told him about the storm and how it woke her up. She couldn’t go back to sleep so she had gotten up when she heard a door close and what she had seen. Heath nodded thoughtfully.

“I’ll talk to Steve when we do the morning chores. I don’t understand why he would do this under our roof. He seemed to respect us and our wishes. We’ll get to the bottom of this.” He drew her closer. “Don’t worry she’ll be goin’ back today. We’ll talk to the padre about what has been goin’ on. Maybe he can get to the bottom of it. She sure isn’t goin’ to listen to us.” David woke up then, and Heath picked him up, hugged him, giving him to Janine. “I’ll start breakfast and get his bottle, my pretty. I think I hear Leah.”

Leah walked into the bedroom, her blonde curly hair all over the place, rubbing her eyes. “Papa, Mama” she ran into Heath’s arms. “Kewwy mean” Heath sighed and caressed her hair.

“What happened, Lil One?” Janey was concerned.

“swap me. Kewwy mean. Book wead me kewwy.” Janine was furious, she wanted to go and shake some sense into that girl. Heath could sense what she was thinking and put a reassuring hand on her arm. She shrugged it off and glared hotly at Heath.

“I have had enough!” she put David back into his crib and stormed into the Leah’s room where Kelly was still in bed. Janine pulled back the covers and pulled the girl into a sitting position. “What is the matter with you?” Janine was livid with anger. “Since you been here, you have done nothing but cause trouble! I thought maybe you would settle down, get into a routine and enjoy being around us! We are not bad people! WHY?” Kelly sat there, shaking, but didn’t say a word. “Let’s start with why you hit Leah. Why did you do it?”

Kelly gave her a venomous stare. “BECAUSE SHE IS A SPOILED BRAT THAT’S WHY!” Janine could not take much more of the girl’s surly attitude. She pulled her up to a standing position and without thinking what she was doing, slapped her face, hard. Not once but twice.

Janine, shocked at what just happened, walked out of the room and went downstairs. Heath was quietly fixing breakfast, Leah helping him and Steve feeding David. She glared at everyone and went outside to calm down. She walked to the barn, sat on a bale of hay stacked in the corner, and burst into tears. She wept there for a long time then composed herself and went back in the house. It was going to be a long day.

When she sat at the table, she found she couldn’t eat, so she drank her coffee. She went over to the playpen picking up her son. She hugged him tightly and sat on the sofa not talking to anyone. Heath talked quietly to Leah and Steve, Kelly still hadn’t come downstairs.

After they ate, Steve went outside to start the morning chores, taking Leah with him. Heath cleared off the table, then sat down beside his wife, taking her in his arms. “I love ya Janey.” He said quietly. She didn’t say anything just leaned against his muscular chest, letting the tears fall. They heard a noise behind them.

“I want to go back now, Mr. Barkley! I hate this house, I hate her and I want to leave right now!” She headed towards the door.

Heath nodded. “Before I take ya home, Kelly, we need to talk. Sit down.”

She put her valise down and stubbornly sat down. Things weren’t working out the way she wanted them. She had a red hand print on the side of her face and Kelly absently rubbed it. “Kelly, we want some answers. Ya’ve been nothing more then rude since ya arrived. Ya flirted with me, with Steve, been extraordinarily mean to Leah and Janine. I wanna know why!” Janine watched her husband with interest. He was calm, cool and collected. He was upset, she knew but whether it was because she lost her composure and hit the girl, or whether it was because of the stubborn girl or a combination of both. She knew better then to say anything but the truth when he was like this. Janine hoped Kelly realized this.

Kelly also observed Heath. He was different, he had a look in his eyes that scared her. She didn’t let down her guard, but listened to him. She had never been in this kind of situation where someone didn’t get angry with her for something she did. She kept her lips tight and uttered not a word.

“Well? You’re really tryin’ my patience, girl! I oughta take you over my knee!” Kelly started to shake but she wouldn’t say a word. Heath sat on the edge of the sofa and looked her in the eyes. He was a patient man, he would wait till the earth caved in, if need be, for an answer.

“I-I-I-I” she stuttered, trying to figure a way out of this situation she put herself in. “I don’t know why I do it Mr. Barkley. I just don’t like her and her spoiled brat. I don’t like the baby. You two are all high and mighty thinking you’re doing the right thing by taking us poor little orphans in! Giving us a home for two weeks out of a summer and then sending us home! Well you’re not doing us a favor! Not at all!” She spat all this out in one big breath.

“Okay. I understand now but I don’t reckon ya should take your anger out on us! It’s not fair and ya’ve hurt everyone around ya. I’m sorry ya feel this way. I want ya to say sorry to everyone includin’ Leah.”

“NO!” she screamed at him. “I WILL NOT APOLOGIZE TO ANYONE! ESPECIALLY TO HER!” she left the house abruptly, kicking the door open and stomping down the stairs. Janine went to get up to follow her but Heath stopped her.

“I’ll go after her. You start lunch. I’ll send Leah in as well, she don’t need to see or hear this.” Janine nodded with tears in her eyes. “It’ll be okay, Janey. I promise.” He hugged her, leaving out the door a bit more quietly then the person before him.

Heath followed the girl out to the barn to where Steve and Leah were. “Leah!” he called urgently, “Leah come here!” she came reluctantly from the corner of the barn.

“Papa!” she yelled running to hold his outstretched hand.

“Leah, go into the house and help Mama. She needs your help, okay?”

“K Papa. Bye Stevie.”

“Bye Leah. Thanks for your help.” She ran cheerily into the house to help Janine, her hair flopping all over the place.

Heath checked what Steve had done, and asked him to milk the cow. He nodded, grabbing the milk stool and went to work. He strolled around the barn, finding things out of place and putting them away.

Kelly had walked down the road a ways, trying desperately to find a place to hide. Imagine having to apologize to her! There is no way I’m apologizing to her! She hit me why shouldn’t she apologize? She was fuming while thinking about what Heath had said to her. She sat down on an old log, relaxing and thinking. She didn’t hear him walk up in front of her until she saw his shadow. She got up to run but he grabbed her arm and sat her down.

“You’re not getting away that easily Kelly.” He sat beside her, watching her closely, making sure she wasn’t going to bolt anytime soon. “Why did ya leave like that? We aren’t that bad, ya know.” She glared at him. “I understand your feelin’s about the orphanage. We would love to have all of you stay at our place, but its just not possible. So we take a few of ya home at a time so that ya get a break from that place. I thought ya liked coming to our home.” He cupped his hand under her chin to make her look at him. “Why don’t you like Janine? She was so lookin’ forward to your comin’.”

She exploded with anger, “ She doesn’t like me! She makes me work and look after those damn brats of hers!” Heath sat there calmly beside her but inwardly the anger was growing. “She thinks she is better then me. She thinks that what ever I do is wrong. I hate her! I hate her! I hate her!”

“You’re wrong Kelly. She likes you very much. You haven’t given her much of a chance to like you. You have been rude to her the whole time you’ve been here.” Kelly looked at him with tears in her eyes.

“I’m not sorry Mr. Barkley. I just don’t like her. There is no law that says I have to right?”

“I reckon. But if you’re to stay under my roof, ya have to behave yourself. That’s my rule. I know ya goin’ back today but I don’t want ya to leave under these circumstances.”

“Mr. Barkley, I love you. I wish I was married to you. Not her. She isn’t right for you.” She blurted out, surprising the both of them. On an impulse, she turned around and kissed him full on the lips.

He roughly pushed her away and stood up. “That’ll be enough of that, young lady!”

“But I love you Mr. Barkley! Can’t you see that?”

“No you don’t! I’m happily married! Can’t ya see that?”

“No! You don’t love her. You’ll love me. I’ll see to that.”

“Kelly! It can’t be! I can’t, won’t and don’t love ya!” She burst into tears and stood up. “I don’t hate ya. You’re a very pretty girl and a very nice one when ya want to be. Don’t throw it away. Don’t throw yourself at any man. Wait for the right one. It’s not me, Kelly. You know that.”

Kelly looked at him and spat, “I’ll show ya, Heath Barkley. I’ll show ya both for turning my emotions on, then shutting them off! I’LL SHOW YA!” Heath didn’t say anything from this venomous attack. He followed her back to the house, pondering about what was said and wondered if anything at all had been accomplished.

He took them back to the orphanage after lunch. Janine stayed home, cleaning the house and re-arranging things back to normal. She was happy that her house will be hers once again.

“Mama?” Leah interrupted her thoughts and Janine gathered her in her arms.

“What is it Honey?”

“Why Kewwy mean?” Janine looked at her daughter in surprise. She never expected this question from her two-year-old daughter.

“I don’t know Leah. Some people are like that. It takes all kinds to make a world.” She tried to reassure her that not everyone was like her. She held her daughter close and was sitting there like that until Heath came home a while later.

Janine got up to make supper while Heath fed David and talked to Leah. It was a nice family evening. After supper, Heath put some water on the stove for the dishes and sat down to play a game of checkers with Janine. Leah was playing with her dolls and David was in his playpen. There wasn’t much talking going on, only noise was Leah playing with her dolls.

That night as they sat out on the porch swing, they discussed the events of the day. Heath told her about talking to Kelly and what was said. Janine didn’t know what to say. She listened quietly and then said, “Heath, we can’t borrow trouble. We tried to help her, she didn’t want to be helped. So she is in God’s hands now. She will not come back to this house. I will not put our kids through that again!”

Heath agreed with her. He hugged her tightly, kissing the top of her head. “Ya know ya make me the happiest man alive?” He asked her hesitantly

“I do? Well I couldn’t be happier either Heath. Its been great three years. It just gets better. Our own little piece of property is doing good, Leah is a beautiful child and David is a gem. I love this life.”

“Do you regret anythin’ Janey? I mean with being married to me and all?” Janine looked at him incredulously.

“Regrets? Me? Never! The only regret I have is not having you sooner in my life. That’s it. What about you? Any regrets?”

“None here, my pretty. I love our life. I love the way ya are with the children. I love the way ya are with people. Oh blazes, I love ya!” Janine giggled. He pulled her onto his lap, swinging the swing at the same time. He kissed her passionately as the swing gently rocked in the night air. They sat holding each other, kissing and murmuring soft words of love. It was a beautiful night for romance. They decided to go in after a while to check on the children before retiring for the night. They checked on Leah first, noticing that the blanket was off her, Heath pulled it up high around her neck. He gave her a fatherly kiss on the forehead and closed the door slightly.

He took his wife’s hand and walked across the hallway to David’s room. Janine checked him, making sure he was covered up, giving him a kiss on the cheek. Heath gave him a kiss on the forehead and they closed the door slightly and stood out in the darkened hallway. He took Janine’s hand and drew her closer to him. “I’ve got an idea, Janey.” He whispered as he nibbled on her earlobe.

“What?” she was curious as to what he had in mind. He took her hand, leading the way up to the attic. He opened the door to the attic and lit the lamp he had sitting on a table they put up there earlier. She looked around, surprised at what she saw.

He drew her closer and asked, “Do you like it?” She kissed him, thanking him for the great surprise. He had made another bedroom in the attic. When he did this, she had no idea, they had been busy with two extra children for the last two weeks.

“When did you do this?” she asked , not believing her husband could do this.

“Well when you went to town with Audra the other day, I wanted something to do, so I did this. That way when we take in other children there is an extra room for them.” He drew her closer and kissed her neck, and worked his way up to her cheeks. “mmmm….I know something else we can use this room for.” He said wickedly.

“mmm….what?” She returned the kisses and started to unbutton his shirt. Heath groaned with passion, picking her up and placing her gently on the cot. “Heath! What do you think you’re doing?” she lay there looking deep into his eyes, finding all the love for her in them. He undid the buttons on her dress and pulled it down below her shoulders. He kissed the top of her chest, making her groan in anticipation of what was to come. He chuckled continued to kiss and undressing her. She was doing the same to him, sending their romantic mood to a sensual one. Finally after a while, their passions sated, they lay together, still kissing each other and murmuring the soft words of love. Their voices floated through the attic air, sending messages of love to their children.

They went back to their own room and fell asleep, not awaking till Leah pitter-pattered to their room the next morning. Janine woke up when the blankets came off of her. She snuggled closer to her sleeping husband and made room for her daughter. “mornin’ Mama” whispered Leah.

Janine hugged her daughter close and whispered, “Mornin’ Leah. What ya doin’ up so early?” She shrugged her little shoulders and put her arms around Janine’s neck. Janine and Leah fell back to sleep. Awhile later, Heath turned over, snuggling to his wife, finding an extra body in their bed. He lifted his head, looked over his wife, and saw his daughter snuggled closely to her mother. He tousled her curly head and rose quietly out of bed.

He checked on David, who was awake and went downstairs with the baby. He made a fire in the cook stove, made coffee and got a bottle. He sat on the couch feeding the baby, then heard a noise from upstairs. He smiled to himself as he heard his wife and daughter speaking to each other.

“Hey sweetie. We should get up. I bet baby is awake now.”

“Baby hungy?” Leah yawned but didn’t move to let her up. Janine tickled her to make her move. “Mama! Top it!”

“Are ya gonna move or am I gonna tickle ya off the bed?” Janine kept tickling her relentlessly.

“Mama! I gonna move. Top it! Pwease Mama!” Janine was laughing as hard as her daughter who leaped off the bed and started down the stairs. Janine got off the bed, following her daughter, caught her and carried her down the stairs. At the bottom, she put her down and tickled her once again. “Mama! Kit it! Papa! Papa! Tell Mama, kit it!” She ran to the protection of her father. Heath had just finished feeding David, handing him over to Janine to be changed. Janine made a face and kissed him.

“Come on Leah. Do ya wanna help me make some breakfast?” Leah nodded enthusiastically. She put her tiny hand into her father’s large one and they headed off to the kitchen. Breakfast was soon ready, and they all sat down to eat.

After breakfast, they did the dishes together then went out to do the chores. Leah fed the chickens, the rabbits, with Janine helping. Heath fed the horses, milked the cow. Janine went inside to check David, because he was awake, brought him outside and lay him in the stroller so he could be with them while they finished the chores.

Heath brought Titan out to the paddock to be exercised. Janine’s mount from her first marriage was now getting old and they decided to pasture him. He was a good, quiet mount for Leah to learn to ride and loved to ride she did. Heath led Titan by his lead, while Leah sat holding on to the horn of the saddle. Janine watched, as she held David, smiling while she observed her husband and daughter having fun.

The next month passed quickly. Jarrod and Jenny were preparing for their wedding. It was to be a quiet ceremony, with family and close friends but the reception afterwards was to be a lavish affair. Important people would be on hand to congratulate the popular lawyer on his marriage. They decided that they would live in San Francisco but would come back frequently to visit the family. They both loved the ranch but the city is where Jarrod’s work took him. He would still have his office in Stockton, but most of his cases would be tried in San Francisco. He had a partner now, Lloyd McMann, a competent lawyer so that relieved him from being in Stockton all the time.

Janine and Audra helped with the wedding plans, which Jenny was grateful. The girls remembered their own weddings and added details to hers which they had forgotten in theirs. Jenny didn’t seem to mind, she had her mind on other things, mainly trying to keep her nervous stomach at bay. It seemed she was always running to the water closet and losing the contents of her stomach. Janine looked at her suspiciously as it was always at the same time she went rushing to the water closet but she didn’t say anything. She decided to wait till after the wedding when they announced the news.

The wedding day came and Jenny was a wreck. Audra and Janine were bridesmaids, looking beautiful in their emerald green dresses. Jenny wore a beautiful white bridal dress, with a matching veil, and looking very pale. The women reassured her that Jarrod was just as nervous as she was. Jenny smiled, saying that might be true.

Jarrod was very nervous. Heath and Nick agreed to be best men for him and they were trying very hard to keep the usually calm man from pacing furiously. “Jarrod, it will be over in a matter of minutes. You’ll be fine. Just think of that wonderful woman ya will be marryin’. I remember when we got married, I thought I was goin’ to die, I was so nervous. Not of her but of makin’ a mistake. Boy howdy I musta had a mind full of things that might have happened. Boy howdy, Jarrod, when ya see her walk down that aisle, you’ll wonder why ya were so nervous!” Jarrod stared at his brother with wonder. He had never heard him say so much all at once. He smiled at his little brother and patted his back.

“thanks Brother Heath. Of course you would know what you’re talkin’ about. You been through all this. I’m not nervous about marrying Jenny. I love her very much. But what if I fall? What if I miss my cue to say I do? What if you lose the ring?” Looking at Nick when he said this last part, he smiled at his brother.

“Jarrod, I won’t lose your rings. I almost did that at Heath’s wedding but I got it all figured out. They are….uhhhhh…..right….here….somewhere..” Jarrod got a panicked look on his face. “Uhh, here they are Jarrod!” He produced them out of his pocket. “Just kidding!”

“Boy Howdy Nick, don’t do that again! That look on Brother Jarrod’s face is enough to knock ya down without his fist!” Nick grinned at his brothers and nodded. Victoria came upstairs and told the men it was time. The wedding was about to start.

The ceremony was beautiful. The men stood in front of the fireplace, watching for the women to come down the stairs. Audra was first, followed by Janine. Heath got misty-eyed when he saw his wife in her dress. They both remembered their wedding three years before and the happy times afterward. Jenny came down, tears slowly making their way down her cheek. Jarrod watched as his bride made her way to him and when she did, he took her arm, faced the minister and took their vows.

They went on their honeymoon a little later that night, not telling anyone where they were going. They would wire everyone when they got to their honeymoon destination. The others were tired and decided to leave the clean up for the next morning. Heath and Janine decided to spend the night at the big house instead of waking the children up.

Leah got up first and went running downstairs to see who was up and about. Finding only Silas in the kitchen, she gave him a hug and a “mornin’ Mr. Silas.” Silas smiled at her, thinking about how much like her parents she was. She helped him with breakfast. One by one, the sleepy family got up and came downstairs, finding the table all set for breakfast, backwards but set up. Victoria chuckled at the little girl’s exuberance in everything she did. “G’mornin Gama Vic. Seep well?”

“Yes Sweetie, I did. How about you? Did you sleep well?” Leah nodded and helped Victoria sit down. She helped everyone to their seats greeting them and then finally sitting down herself. Janine and Heath smiled at their daughter, who was surprising them everyday with her thoughtfulness and friendliness to everyone that came near her. Leah chatted away to anyone who would listen to her about her horses, chickens and rabbits, about her toys, her dog and kitten.

She was explaining to Audra about the new dress her mother had made for her when Heath interrupted, “Lil One, I reckon ya should eat your breakfast. You’ve just bout covered every topic there is.”

“K Papa. I eat now. Baby eat?”

“Yep Baby ate his breakfast,” interjected Janine, “So maybe ya had better eat yours so ya can grow up big and strong, k?”

“K Mama. I eat now, see?” Everyone chuckled as she shoved a spoonful of eggs into her mouth.

They helped clean up the mess from the wedding and everyone went their separate ways. Heath wanted to break the new stallion they had just rounded up from the hills behind their place while Janine and Audra made some plans to go riding. Fred and Nick decided to go with Heath and do some other work around the ranch. Victoria said she would look after the baby for them as Leah wanted to go riding with them. Janine nodded, knowing that she wasn’t going to get off that easily.

At dinner time, they all gathered at the table talking about the wedding, their day apart and what their plans were for the week. It was an enjoyable meal with Fred and Audra teasing each other. Janine and Heath smiled at each other, knowing they tease each other a lot as well. A sign of a happy marriage, thought Janine, eyes twinkling at the happy couple.

The next few weeks passed by quickly, and soon it was time for the fall roundup. Janine couldn’t believe that their third anniversary was just around the corner. She wanted to plan something special for them. Every day was special to her. She thought about her life before Heath and still couldn’t believe that she was married to someone like him. They hardly ever fought but when they did, they made up before bedtime.

One day as Janine was doing her chores while Heath was at the ranch fencing , there was a knock at the door. She checked on David, who was sleeping in the playpen in front of the bay window and Leah who was sweeping the floor in the living room. “Who is it?” she asked before she answered the door.

“It’s Audra, Janey, I need to talk to you.” Janine opened the door and let Audra in.

“What’s wrong Audra?” Audra looked like she was going to burst into tears. “Do ya wanna cup of coffee?” The blonde girl shook her head.

“Where’s Heath?” Janine glanced at her friend and wondered why she was asking such a silly question. Where would Heath be in the middle of the day during the week?

“Out with Nick, mending the fence in the North pasture, why?” Audra looked terror stricken.

“Oh something terrible has happened to someone at the orphanage, Janey!” Audra struggled with her emotions, not knowing how to tell her friend that her world was about to crumble. Janine sent Leah outside to play so they could talk with no interruptions. She didn’t want Leah to hear what Audra had to say.

“What happened, Audra? Tell me the truth!”

“Oh Janine!” she wailed, “One of the girls at the orphanage is in the family way.”

“Yeah? Oh that’s terrible, what does it have to do with us?”

“It’s Kelly, Janey! She says that Heath is the father!” Janey sat back on the couch, not knowing what to say.

“THAT’S NOT TRUE!” screamed Janine in horror, not believing what she just heard. “She said she was going to get us and this is how she repays us? She is a liar, Audra, believe me, IT’S NOT TRUE!”

“I believe you, Janine! I believe you! You and Heath love each other and he would not do this. I know him, he would not do something like this!”

“Go home Audra. Thanks for tellin’ me. We will work this out. If Heath’s there, tell him to come home. Don’t tell him why, I’ll tell him when he gets here. Please, Audra, don’t tell anyone till we have a chance to talk this out!”

“I won’t Janey. Sure you don’t want me to stay?” she asked her sister-in-law, admiring the courage that Janine was displaying. She wasn’t sure if she could handle a situation like this herself.

“I’ll be okay. Thanks for comin’ and tellin’ me. I love ya Audra. And we’ll come over a little later.”

“I love you too Janey. I’m sorry my friend.” Audra stepped over the broom that Leah had left on the floor and hugged her. “Padre knows Heath didn’t do it either. We’ll get to the bottom of it Janey. We will!”

Janine went to the kitchen to fix lunch for her and Leah when she heard the door open a while later. Thinking it was Leah coming in to tell her she was hungry, she told her to go wash her hands for lunch. It surprised her to hear her husband’s quiet drawl, “K Janey I will.”

“Oh Heath! I’m so glad you’re home!” She burst into tears and threw herself into his protective arms.

“Boy howdy, Janey! What’s this? what’s the matter?”

“Where’s Leah?” Janine looked around the kitchen and didn’t see her anywhere.

“she’s upstairs washing her hands like ya told her to do. What’s the matter? Why are ya so upset?” Janine shook her head.

“It’ll have to wait until after Leah is out of earshot. What I have to say she can’t hear.” Heath looked at her incredulously.

“Okay, We’ll take the children over to the house for Audra to look after and we will go for a drive, how does that sound?” Janine nodded, tears filling her eyes. He is going to be fit to be tied when he hears what I have to say, she thought.

After lunch, they took the children over to the house asking Audra if she would take care of them while they went for a drive. Audra, knowing the reason why, said yes she would and not to worry about them. “Thanks Audra, Hopefully we won’t be too long. Fred isn’t home from the round up yet?”

“No I told him I would be here after I left the orphanage, so he will know where to look for me. Go for your drive and don’t worry about the children, they’ll be fine.”

“Thanks Audra. You’re a real pal!” Janine hugged her friend and jumped in the wagon with Heath. They started down the road towards town and went to their private picnic area. A quiet place by the river, where the deer came to drink, the birds soared through the sky and the grass the greenest green they had ever seen. It was a lovely place.

Heath stopped the wagon and helped his wife down. Still holding her hand, they sat down by the river and watched the current of the river pull the grasses back and forth.

“What is it, Janey? What is so important that I had to leave the ranch to come home early? Audra looked like death warmed over and you don’t look much better.”

“Oh Heath!” Janine was having a hard time controlling her emotions. “Something terrible has happened!” Terror gripped Heath’s heart. What could be so awful that would make Janine act this way?” he asked himself. “Kelly’s going to have a baby, Heath!” Janine blurted this out in a blaze of fury. “She says your the father! It’s not true, right Heath?”

Heath was stunned. Kelly going to have a baby? His? “NO! I DIDN’T TOUCH HER THAT WAY JANINE!” Heath roared. He was not a loud person even when he was upset but this was different. No one had ever accused him of doing something like this. “It’s not mine, Janey, I swear!” Heath pleaded silently to her. She knew the truth, she knew her husband wouldn’t touch another woman especially one so young. But the memories of her former husband came floating back. The ones that she thought she had buried. She couldn’t stop the flow of words that came out of her mouth. There was no reason to what she was saying, but she said it anyway.

“HOW DARE YOU TOUCH HER AT ALL HEATH BARKLEY! WHY OH WHY IS THIS HAPPENING TO US?” Heath stunned by her words, got deathly quiet. He let her rant on, knowing that she didn’t mean all the things she was saying but it hurt all the same. Then he had enough. He had to stop her before she went too far.

“JANINE MARIE BARKLEY!” she stopped and stared at him. Did he just call her by her full name? Did I just accuse him of something I know in my heart of hearts that he couldn’t have done? Oh what have I done? She burst into tears.

“I’m sorry Heath. I’m just so confused, hurt, angry. I don’t know where all that came from!” Heath took her into his arms, stroking her hair, then the action calming them both. “I’m sorry Heath. I didn’t mean what I said. I just remembered how much it hurt when Gary cheated on me and I didn’t say anything, and I had to go yell at ya when I KNOW ya couldn’t and wouldn’t be tempted. I just couldn’t help myself. I am so sorry!”

“I know Janey. You know that I wouldn’t do anything to hurt ya. I made ya a promise that I would give ya a much better life and I have kept it, haven’t I?”

“Yeah, ya have Heath. And I’m really happy being married to ya. But what are we gonna do about Kelly? How can we prove that you did not touch her? There were instances that you were alone with her.”

“I know, Janey. Maybe we should talk to Jarrod about this. I knew she was goin’ to do somethin’ but I had no idea it was gonna be this! Oh Janey, I’m so sorry! I thought it was a harmless crush! She did try to kiss me a couple of times, but I put a stop to it, real quick.” He put his head between his hands and wept. Janine drew him closer to her and held his shaking body till the sobs subsided a while later. He put his arms around her waist and pulled her closer, trying to draw strength from her. He needed her, loved her and knew he could not deal with this alone.

She felt his need and held him close. They had two children of their own that would be affected by this girl, and she knew Leah hadn’t forgotten what Kelly had done to her. They would deal with this and make sure she wouldn’t do this to anyone else again. That girl was so full of hatred, and Janine thought maybe she could teach her a lesson, somehow. She let her own tears flow, this would be the only time that she would give in to her emotions. Heath needed her to be strong and strong she would be.

A couple of hours later, they made their way back to the house. They decided to talk to the family as it affected them all. There would be rumors and Heath had to make sure he told them the truth before the rumors ran rampant. They had each other’s support and strength when the impact of the rumor hit full speed.

Heath slowly got out of the carriage and helped Janine down. He held her hand in a tight grip. “Ow! Heath, I know you’re worried but could ya do me a little tiny favor?” Heath looked at her blankly. He nodded. “Could ya…ummm…loosen the grip on my hand. You’re hurtin’ me!” She smiled serenely at him and he gave her a half grin, loosening his grip a bit. He didn’t realize he was holding her hand that tightly.

“Sorry, my pretty. I guess I’m a little more worried than I thought!” Janine gave him a kiss on the cheek as they entered the house.

“Mama! Papa! Where go?” Janine scooped Leah up in her arms and hugged her tight. “Mama! Ow! Hug hurt!”

“Sorry Leah. I love ya. Love me?”

“Wove me? Wove you” Leah hugged her mother with reckless abandonment. “Baby seep Mama. Feed baby bottle, me.” She stretched out her arms and wanted her father. “Papa, wide?”

Heath put her up on his shoulders and gave her a ride to the study where the family was gathered, having a drink before supper. “Thanks for looking after the children for us,” greeted Janine. Nick offered them a drink which they took gratefully. Leah went to her Uncle Jarrod and sat on his knee. “Wead me, Unca Jawwod?”

“Okay sweetie. Then it will be supper time. You’re going to stay for supper, Heath?” Heath nodded. Janine looked at her husband and grasped his hand. Her eyes conveying the love she had for him.

The next few days passed in a blur. They spoke to the family and explained what was going on. Then they went to the orphanage trying to talk some sense into Kelly, but she stuck to her story that Heath was the father and he was responsible for her unborn child. They spoke to Steve, but he denied he had even touched the girl. He said that she came to his room that night, but nothing had happened. She threw herself on him and tried to seduce him, but he threw her off.

They spoke to the Padre, while he believed that Heath did not touch the girl, he had to inform the sheriff of the girl’s condition. He hated to do it, because Heath was such an honest, quiet, family man, but the law was the law. In this case, Heath was guilty till proven innocent.

When the sheriff came to pick up Heath, Janine held him telling him that she would ride over and get Jarrod. “Don’t worry. We’ll get ya out, Love.” Heath knew he was in good hands and kissed his wife. She watched as her husband rode out with the sheriff, she loaded up the children and went to the house to get Jarrod. He was on his steed in a minute, riding to town to bail out his brother, Nick was also on his feet and out the door with Jarrod.

It was so unfair, thought Janine. Why does she hate us so much? She knows Heath couldn’t have done it. She knows it! Janine thought she would go to the orphanage and talk to her once again. To try to get the truth out of her. It couldn’t hurt, she thought.

She left the children with Audra, saying she had an errand to run and would be back before dinner. Audra knew what she was up to and agreed to look after them. Janine kissed her children and rode off to the orphanage.

“Padre, I want to talk to Kelly, is she around?” the padre nodded and went to the back room, bringing back a sour looking girl. “Is there a private place we can talk?”

the padre led them to tiny room in the front where he held conferences with potential parents for his kids. He left them there, shutting the door firmly behind him.

As soon as the door shut, Kelly lit into Janine with a vengeance. “Why are you here, Mrs. Barkley? Scared it might be the truth? Are you scared that your precious husband actually made love to me? Yes I am having a baby and YES IT IS YOUR HUSBAND’S!”

Janine fought back the venom that was threatening to foam out of her mouth. She fought back the cruel words that were threatening to spurt out at any second. She spoke calmly, clearly, “Why are ya so sure its his, Kelly? All he did was fend ya off when ya tried to kiss him. I saw that. I was mad then but I passed it off as a harmless crush. You tried to hurt Leah, that I couldn’t pass off. She is only two years old. How dare you interfere with our family! You’re a whore! Yes I said whore! I saw ya that night coming out of Steve’s room and told Heath about it. Are ya so sure its not Steve’s? Did ya throw yourself at him too? Did you need attention so badly that ya have to try and wreck my marriage? Well I’ll tell ya something, missy. You’ve taken a wonderful man and made a fool out of him. Now he’s second guessing everything he does! He is sitting in jail because of you! I hope you are proud of yourself! You are a self centred, lying, whore!” Janine paused for a breath and was going to continue on but Kelly interrupted her.

“He touched me Mrs. Barkley! He did! He told me he was going to leave you and marry me! He loves me, not you! How dare you call me a whore! No one ever touched me like he did. I don’t know what you saw, but I never came out of Steve’s room on any night! It was your imagination!”

“Are ya willing to testify under oath in court? I’ll charge ya with slander in my husband’s good name. If you’re caught lying, ya can go to jail then ya will have that baby in prison. Are ya willin’ to risk that?” The girl shook with the idea of going to court but she held fast to the fact that the baby was Heath’s.

“I’m willing to do anything to make sure this baby has a father and I have a husband. Believe me, Mrs. Barkley, I will make your life look so terrible, you’ll wish you hadn’t taken me in. I told you, I was going to make you pay! And pay you shall!” With that, Kelly got up from the chair and walked out the door, slamming it on her way out. Janine sat there stunned. She got up slowly out of the chair and sauntered over to the door, deep in thought.

The padre opened the door just as Janine reached for the knob. He looked at her with concerned eyes saying quietly, “Did it go as planned, Mrs. Barkley?” She shook her head no.

“Thank you Padre for letting me try. Let’s put this to a higher authority and see what happens. Please pray that things go well.” It was the padre’s turn to nod and opened the door for the defeated woman. He felt bad this was happening to such a nice couple. He would most definitely pray for them but he would pray extra hard for Kelly. She needed the help worse, she had no one in which to depend on.

Janine rode back to the ranch house, defeated, and withdrawn. She tried her best to speak to the girl but to no avail. She would talk to Jarrod and see if she could charge her with slander. If she could do it or if Heath had to do it. Either way she was going to pay for what she was doing to her family. She would not stand for anyone hurting her or the ones she loved. Confident in what she was going to do, she flicked the reins of the horses and headed down the road, the house in sight.

She pulled to a stop at the barn where Heath was waiting for her. He helped her down and hugged her. “I missed ya my pretty,” he told her huskily.

“I missed ya too, Love.” They kissed passionately, completely forgetting there were others wandering around the barnyard.

Presently they heard someone clear their throat. They broke apart, guiltily. They turned to look to see who was intruding on them and found it was Jarrod with Jenny. “Oh excuse us, Jarrod, Jenny. We didn’t realize anyone was around.” Explained Janine blushing.

“It’s okay Janine. We understand. Don’t we pretty lady?” Jenny blushed slightly and nodded. Janine smiled and warmed to Jenny. She liked her new sister-in-law and hoped they could be good friends.

“Jarrod, I wanted to talk to you. I went to see Kelly.” Heath threw his wife a look that told her that he would talk to her about this later.

“You did? That was a dumb thing to do, don’t you think?” Janine crossed her arms in front of her chest and stood defiantly, looking at her husband and her brother-in-law.

“I thought if I could talk to her, I could get her to stop her accusations against Heath.” She said rather indignantly.

“Janey, I appreciate that you want to protect me. But remember what I have told you on numerous occasions? That I do the protecting in this family? Remember?”

“But Heath, this is against ya. You’ve no idea how venomous this girl is! I’ve a right to protect ya too ya know! Ya don’t have to be the protector all the time. As your wife, I have a responsibility to protect what I think is mine! You’re mine and I’ll fight with my life to keep ya! I don’t care who or what it is!” Heath stared at his wife with new eyes. Jarrod and Jenny stared at her as well, not believing what they were hearing. They rarely fought and this was something they had never heard before.

“Okay Janine. Just remember we’re in this together, we have children to think of. Ya can’t be running all over and gettin’ hurt just because ya want to protect me. Do ya hear me?” Janine’s emerald eyes filled with tears, nodding, she knew he was right. “So ya went to talk to her. What did she say?”

So Janine told them all about what Kelly had said and how she said it. How she didn’t care that she was destroying a family and all that she wanted was Heath. They all stared at her, not believing that this sixteen year old girl was capable of such pain. Finally Jarrod spoke, quietly, and in a lawyer voice, “We will charge her with slander.”

“That’s precisely what I was thinkin’ brother Jarrod. Do ya agree my husband?” Heath nodded, this whole thing seemed surreal. He was flabbergasted that this was happening to him, but with the love of his wife and his family, things would be all right. They had to be.

That night as they sat on the porch swing, Heath held Janine in her arms and stroking her hair. “You’re a special woman, ya know.” he told her.

“Thank ya husband. You’re pretty special, too.” She sat back in his arms, loving the feel of him stroking her hair. “Are ya mad at me, Love?”

Heath stopped stroking her hair, sat her up and kissed her lips deeply, parting them with his tongue before he answered. “Not really, my pretty. I was upset that ya went and tried to do somethin’ on your own. But I understand why ya did it. Blazes, honey, I woulda done the same thing. I’m glad ya want to protect me. I love that about ya. Ya have a fierce loyalty to your family and will lay your life on the line for us. That’s a wonderful thing. But honey, I just wish ya wouldn’t do things like that without talkin’ to me first.”

“But I couldn’t Heath. Ya were in jail. Am I supposed to have gone to the jail and talk to ya ? Then wait for your permission? I don’t think so! I want to be able to do what I have to without waitin’ for your permission. I’m your wife, Heath Barkley! Not your servant or anythin’ else!”

“Oh Janey, that’s not what I meant at all! I just want to know what you’re doin’ and I would like to be able to defend myself once in a while too, okay?” He cupped his hand under her chin and lifted her head to face him. “I love ya and if anythin’ was to happen to ya because of me, I wouldn’t feel good about it. Do ya understand?”

“I understand. But I want ya to promise me the same thing to me. Don’t go runnin’ off doin’ somethin’ stupid without tellin’ me first! Understand?” Heath nodded. “Okay, let’s drop this subject for awhile! I have better things in mind!” Heath grinned as she straddled his lap and kissed him passionately. They moaned in unison, and stood up, arms around each other, and went into the house. They checked on the children then went to bed, exploring each other’s bodies. Passions soaring then calming down. They settled down after a while, falling asleep soon after.

The next week went by quickly. There were visits to the orphanage, trying to get Kelly to confess that the baby wasn’t Heath’s but she wouldn’t relent, no matter who spoke to her. Jarrod spoke to her, Audra spoke to her, Victoria even tried to speak to her but she was adamant in her accusation. Heath was the father and there was no changing her mind. The padre tried speaking to her as well, but by this time she was closed mouth and would not say a word to anyone.

Jarrod was preparing for the slander case against Kelly. He hated prosecuting someone so young but she needed to be taught a lesson. She was so stubborn about the whole episode and would not relent. Heath and Janine were hoping it would be over soon. He had papers strewn all over his desk and Jenny was trying to clean it up while he was working. He was frustrated at this case and almost yelled at his bride for being so helpful. He looked up at his wife whose eyes were filling with tears and was immediately sorry for snapping at her. “I’m sorry Jen. I didn’t mean to raise my voice.”

“It’s okay Jarrod. I understand that Heath’s case means a lot to you. I shouldn’t have been bothering you while you are working.” Jarrod took her in his arms and hugged her tightly, glad that she had interrupted him. “I’m sorry for bothering you honey”

“You’re not bothering me milady. I should put this away and pay attention to my bride. I’ve been neglecting her lately. I’m sorry!” They kissed passionately and even though it was in the middle of a Sunday afternoon, they went upstairs to have a nap.

A while later, Heath showed up for the Sunday visit with his family. Janine was looking forward to her regular game of pool with Nick and she wasn’t missing any game where there was money involved. Of course, she loved to tease her brother-in-law and didn’t miss an opportunity to play a joke or tease him relentlessly. Tonight Chelsea would be there as well so it would be doubly fun to embarrass him in front of his girlfriend. Heath told her to be nice to Nick, as Chelsea would be there. If Chelsea was to be part of the family, she would have to see what she was going to get herself into she told him. Heath sighed, there was no changing his wife’s mind once she had an idea and when it involved pulling the wool over his brother’s eyes, there was no stopping her. Janine heard that sigh and held his hand. Her eyes flashed with amusement and love towards him.

They went into the parlour where everyone was sitting and chatting. Leah ran into her Uncle Nick’s arms and hugged him tightly. “Hi Unca Nick. Miss me?” Nick chuckled and nodded.

“Yes Leah, I count the minutes till I see ya again.” Leah smiled at his answer and wanted down. She went to Victoria and sat on her lap, giving her a kiss on the cheek.

“Wove you Gama Vic.” Victoria put her arms around her granddaughter and hugged her tight.

“I love you too Leah. How bout you and me check to see if supper is almost ready?” Leah jumped off Victoria’s lap and hugged Audra.

“K. Gama Vic. Let go” They all chuckled as Leah took Victoria’s hand and dragged her off to the kitchen to check on supper.

Jarrod and Jenny came down soon afterwards and poured themselves a drink. Nick poured everyone a drink, and soon there was a knock on the door. Nick’s face lit up as he opened the door as their stood Chelsea, the woman he was going to marry in the New Year. They had made the announcement last week and everyone congratulated them wholeheartedly. Judging by the look on their faces it wasn’t too soon for the proposal.

Victoria and Leah came back to the parlour announcing that supper would be ready in twenty minutes. They all nodded and Janine sat down with David, feeding him his bottle.

Leah threw herself at Jarrod, “Hi Unca Jawwod. Miss me?” Jarrod hugged his niece, nodding. “You nice Aunt Jenny.” Jenny beamed at the unexpected compliment.

“Thank you Leah. You’re nice too.” Leah gave her new aunt a half grin, similar to her father’s. They all grinned at the little girl who just loved to be the centre of attention.

Leah looked at Chelsea and asked “Aunt me?”

Chelsea looked at Nick and smiled. “Soon I’ll be your aunt Leah. Won’t that be nice?” Leah nodded, contented with the answer. She loved Sundays and her family. She left her uncle’s protective custody and went to her father, hugging him.

After dinner, they adjoined to the pool room where Nick challenged Janine to a game. He was insistent that he would win eventually against her. Janine smiled sweetly at him, loving this challenge he put forth. Leah whispered quietly to Chelsea, “Unca Nick and mama not mad. They pway mad.” She didn’t say it quietly enough so everyone heard her and chuckled. Heath picked up Leah and tickled her.

Janine and Nick played their game rather noisily but they were ignored by the others in the room. Janine was really torturing Nick and Nick was taking it all in. He was trying to concentrate on winning this game and making an impression with Chelsea, but it wasn’t to be. He was going to have to practice more. It doesn’t matter how much he practiced, it seemed that he would never be as good as she. The game done, Janine put the cue away and nodded to Heath and Jarrod. They had some business to discuss about the hearing coming up. Victoria took David and Audra read to Leah while their parents and uncle made tracks to another room where they could discuss things in private.

“First things first,” started the dark haired man in his lawyer voice. “I received the report back from Pinkertons Friday.” The couple looked at him expectantly. They did not want to lose custody of their baby boy. “There are no relatives anywhere. If you want to make David legally yours, its free and clear to do so.” Janine’s smile could not be any larger. She looked over at Heath whose smile was just as wide.

“Thank ya Jarrod. That’s wonderful news! You’ve made our day!” announced Janine happily taking her husband’s hand.

“Now onto the other thing.” Jarrod took a cigar and lit it. He sat back on the chair and observed them both. “The hearing starts tomorrow. Are you ready for it?” Heath sunk lower into the settee, and nodded.

“I reckon”

“It’s going to be rough Heath. We have some tough questions to ask to get to the root of the problem. Are you willing to answer, under oath, any question posed to you?”

“Yes Jarrod. We need to know the truth. I want this over and done with. I just wish she would come to her senses. I want my life back.” Heath glanced at his wife. She was quiet too quiet.

“What kind of questions Jarrod?” she asked timidly. Jarrod searched her face and took a drag of his cigar. He leaned forward and took her hand.

“Questions about your relationships, Janey. Your relationship at the orphanage, your children. Questions about your marriage. Are you able to bare your laundry in public under oath?”

“Is there anyway it can be kept quiet without having the whole town know?” Jarrod shook his head.

“Sorry Heath, Janine. I am sorry that you have to go through this. But its the only way. The other lawyer is a tough one. Mark Summerston. He will put you through the grinder.” The couple looked at him thoughtfully. Jarrod hated doing this to them but he knew that Heath would want the truth. It was his way, no matter how hard it hurt, the truth was the best way. “the hearing is at nine. I’ll meet you at the courthouse.”

“Okay Jarrod.” answered Heath sullenly. Jarrod got up to join the others in the pool room. Janine and Heath sat there holding hands while Jarrod left the room. Jarrod stopped, turned around and looked at the couple. They were sitting there, their heads together, hands clasped, wishing for the whole thing to be over. Jarrod strolled into the pool room, searched out his wife, and hugged her. Jenny hugged him back, knowing the reason for the hug. This was tough for him and she would stand by him, no matter what happened.

They decided to leave the children at the house with Victoria and Audra. They spent the night and got up early to spend some time with the children before they left them for the day. They were up before the children so they went outside to watch the sunrise from their favorite spot on the ranch, Lookout Peak. They hadn’t been there for a while and spent an hour up there, reliving memories of their first year together.

They sat on the edge of the mountain, watching the sun make its morning pictures. They sat in rapt silence, till the morning show was over, arms around each other, each deep in thought about what was to happen at court. Janine had a nervous stomach but Heath was calm as he always was. Janine stood up and announced that they should go see the children before they left. Heath nodded, taking her hand. He drew her close and kissed her. He helped her up on her mount and slowly they rode back to the ranch, not looking forward to this day.

They arrived at the courthouse five minutes early. They entered the building, Heath taking his seat with Jarrod at the front of the room. Janine sat directly behind them, watching the proceedings. Right on the appointed hour, everyone stood up as Judge Harry Martin entered the courtroom. No one sat until the honorable judge was seated at his desk.

Jarrod and Kelly’s lawyer read their opening statements about how they were going to prove their case. Since this was a hearing and not a trial, there was no jury but they still had to have their arguments ready. The judge listened, unbiased, with rapt attention.

It was time for the first witness on the prosecuting side. Jarrod called up Padre Michael for his first witness.

“Can you tell the court how you know the defendant, Kelly Humphries?”

“She is a ward at the orphanage, which I manage here in Stockton.” responded the padre, clearly nervous.

“How long has she been at the orphanage?”

“About six years, sir.”

“And in those six years, has she ever displayed displeasure at being at the orphanage?”

“When she first arrived, she was very angry. She was only ten then, so it was to be expected. Her parents were killed, murdered, I believe and she was the only one to survive. After a while, say a month, she seemed to accept that she was in an orphanage.”

“In the last year, did she seem displeased at anything?”

“She appeared to be all right. She always had a tendency of teasing the other kids on the verge of tears, but she never hurt them physically. She helped out in the kitchen and looking after the children. She never shirked her duty in that regard.”

Jarrod nodded thoughtfully, thinking of his next question. “Did she have a boyfriend or beau that you know of?”

The Padre pondered the question for a few minutes before answering. “I don’t recall her ever having a beau. We frown upon that sort of thing because of the younger children. That doesn’t mean that she couldn’t go out to the dances and other organized activities that were chaperoned by adults. But she never seemed interested in anything like that.” Kelly seemed a little uncomfortable at the questions but continued to listen attentively.

“Have you ever seen her wander around at night?”

“She never really slept well at night. She often had nightmares when she first arrived, but they stopped after awhile. She still gets nightmares, and gets up to walk around to calm herself down.”

“Where does she walk when she gets these nightmares?”

“She usually goes to the kitchen to get some milk and cookies. Or she will come to me and we talk about her dreams. She doesn’t make friends easily, so she doesn’t talk to any of the other children.” Jarrod nodded.

“What was her reaction when she was told she was going to stay at a regular home for a couple of weeks?”

“She looked surprised. She had never been asked to go anywhere before. I think shocked would be a better word.” Padre looked thoughtfully for a few minutes before adding, “I never thought she would be capable of doing anything like this. She is such a nice girl.”

“Why hadn’t anyone asked her to go stay with them before?”

“No one has asked any of the children to go with them. If they ever did, its usually the younger ones.” Jarrod nodded in agreement.

Jarrod glanced at the judge, saying “No more questions, Your Honor. I reserve the right to call back this witness.”

“Granted” replied Judge Martin.

Kelly’s appointed lawyer, Mark Summerston, had been listening carefully to Jarrod’s questions and took careful notes. Summerston, a tall lanky man was in awe of the other lawyer’s prowess in the courtroom. Jarrod’s abilities as a lawyer had not gone unnoticed by other up and coming lawyers. Summerston, an accomplished lawyer himself, felt almost defeated, being up against such a formidable lawyer.

“Good morning Padre Michael” Padre Michael nodded his head, and placed his hands in his lap. “You say you have known Miss Humphries for six years?” Again the Padre nodded. “Can you answer orally so we can all hear you?”

“Yes”

“Is she a good person?”

“Isn’t everyone?”

“Has she ever caused any trouble before now?”

“No sir”

“Has she ever lied to you before?”

“Not that I am aware of”

“So you believe her about the baby being Mr. Barkley’s?”

“No sir”

“But you just said she doesn’t lie”

“I didn’t say that sir. I said she never lied to me before. There is a difference”

“But you don’t believe that the baby is Mr. Barkley’s?”

“No sir”

“May I ask why not?”

“Mr. Barkley comes to the orphanage often. He plays with the children and is really good with them Since he married Mrs. Barkley, they both come and spend time with the children, often bringing their daughter with them. Not once has he touched them in any offending way.”

Heath flinched at the questioning, glancing at Jarrod but listening. Janine sat forward to listen more closely to the questioning. Jarrod was right, these questions are brutal. Will they be tougher on us? she thought woefully.

Judge Martin banged his gavel down. “Court will be recessed for lunch. We’ll adjourn again at one pm sharp.” Jarrod closed his briefcase and looked to his family. Heath stood up, looking more than a little bewildered and started out the door. Janine caught up to him but he shrugged her off. Nick and Jarrod watched this exchange, deciding to go for lunch while the two of them fought their emotions. It was a hard case for all of them. This was a special man being torn down inch by inch. Jarrod was going to do all he could do to stop that vindictive girl from destroying his brother.

“Heath! Don’t shrug me off! Honey! Please talk to me!” Heath kept walking, ignoring his wife’s pleas to stop. He didn’t know what to do. He didn’t know what to think. What must people think of him? What does his wife think? These thoughts were uppermost in his mind. He spent all his life fighting the bigotry of his heritage. He found a place in society where he was accepted and now this. His life flashed before his eyes. He saw himself as a child, being laughed and scorned at. He saw the same bigotry as an adult but he learned to deal with it. This was something different. Totally different. He was being accused of something he never did and would never think to do.

He came across a bench and sat his large frame upon it. He put his hands to his face and sat there, lost among his thoughts. He felt an arm go across his shoulders, squeezing him lovingly. He looked up and saw the concerned look in his wife’s beautiful emerald eyes. “Honey, I love you. Please talk to me Heath! It’s not good to keep it all in.” Heath opened his mouth to say something, anything, but all that came out was a big sob. Janine drew him closer to her and held him while he sobbed. Her own tears threatening to fall, she kept them at bay while she soothed her husband.

After a while, Janine pulled him away from her and looked deep into his pained blue eyes. “Honey I love you. No matter what anyone says or believes, we know the truth. As long as we have that it doesn’t matter what anyone says. We have to trust each other or there is no sense in continuing with this marriage. Right?” Janine pleaded with him passionately, trying to reach his hurt soul. He nodded, needing her reassurance that everything was going to be all right. “Jarrod is trying his hardest to make things right. He knows ya didn’t do it as does the rest of your family. Let’s just take this slowly and not let her win okay? Heath are ya listenin’ to me?”

Heath held her tightly, grateful for this woman he married. “I’m sorry Janey. I never knew she was this way. I thought she was a nice girl when we picked her from the orphanage. She looked so sad, sitting there away from everyone with that sad look. She kinda reminded me of a lost soul. I had to bring her home. Ya understand, don’t ya Janey?” Janine nodded.

“Honey don’t let this incident mar you for the person you are. You are a kind, decent person with a beautiful heart. If you lose that, then she wins, no matter if she loses the case. Please Heath, don’t let her destroy you.” Heath nodded and rose from the bench. Janine stood up and took his hand. “I love ya Heath Barkley, for better or for worse. Remember that.”

“Thanks Janey. I love ya too.” He held her hand and together they walked into the courthouse, feeling a little better about themselves.

As everyone filed into the courtroom, a hush fell over the room. They were done questioning the padre and Jarrod called his next witness. “Your Honor, I call Mrs. Janine Barkley to the stand” Janine stood up and went to the witness stand and swore on the Bible that she would tell the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth.

“Good Afternoon, Mrs. Barkley.” Janine nodded as Jarrod asked his first question, “How do you know the defendant, Miss Kelly Humphries?”

“I met her several times at the orphanage and she stayed two weeks at our home as our guest.” replied Janine.

“I see. And when you met her the first time at the orphanage, what did you think about her?”

“Objection Your Honor. Can’t base a testimony on opinions.”

“Sustained”

Jarrod tried another tactic. “Was she pleasant towards you when you first met?”

“She was”

“How many times have you seen her at the orphanage before you brought her home as a guest?”

“About five”

“And you thought she needed a break from the orphanage, so you brought her home?”

“Yes sir”

“Had she ever made any comments to you about your husband?”

“Not really. She did say that I was lucky to have such a wonderful handsome man for a husband. Naturally I agreed with her.” Janine smiled slightly at Jarrod. There was a slight chuckle from the audience as she said this.

Jarrod smiled in spite of himself while continuing on, “But she never hinted that she was interested in Heath in anyway?”

“No sir”

“What was she like at your home?”

“She was surly, and rude to our two year old daughter. I thought she was just having a bad day the first day, so I didn’t say much to her, thinking it was just the excitement of the day.”

“And what was she like when Heath was around?”

“Her whole attitude changed. She did whatever he asked of her, and was real sweet.”

“Did you know what was going on at that point?”

“No idea. I figured she had a crush on him, as a lot of young girls do when they see a good lookin’ cowboy.” Again she blushed when she said this. Heath winked at her, saying she was doing all right. She smiled slightly and watched Jarrod as he went back to his briefcase to glance at some notes.

“Did you ever see them kissing or touching each other inappropriately?” She gulped and glanced at Heath. He nodded his head slightly.

“Yes sir”

“Can you tell the court what you saw?”

Janine nervously wrung her hands that were in her lap. She gulped and looked at Jarrod. “Go on Janine. It’s all right Just tell the court what you saw”

“I went to see if I could help with what ever it was he was doing in the barn.”

“Then?” prompted Jarrod, knowing how hard this was for her.

“I saw Kelly hugging Heath and trying to kiss him in the barn.”

“Did they see you?”

“Not at first.” came the reply.

“Did you see anything else?” Jarrod rested his arm on the rail of the witness stand, baring his eyes into hers.

“I saw Heath push her roughly away and tell her that wasn’t the way young ladies were supposed to act.” Jarrod nodded.

“What did you do when you saw this between your husband and Miss Humphries?”

“I went in the house after telling Kelly I wanted to speak to her.”

“And you spoke to her?”

“Yes”

“What did you say to her?”

“I asked her why she kissed my husband and she gave me a story about her loving him and him loving her. Then she told me I was all high and mighty taking the orphans in…and….and…” Janine was close to tears remembering what was said. Jarrod handed her a glass of water, for which she was grateful. “Thank ya.”

Jarrod nodded, asking, “Can you go on now?”

“Yes. I made her a deal. Told her if she behaved herself for the rest of the time, did what I asked and when I asked, that she would leave Heath alone and get out of our lives. She agreed.”

“Did she follow through on the deal?”

“Yes but then she started attacking Leah, our daughter, and that made me angry.”

“What happened then?”

“Heath stepped in and talked to her. Then she threatened us by telling us it wasn’t over. She would do anything to destroy us.” Janine was sitting on the edge of the chair as she was speaking and sat back suddenly, relieved it was all out in the open.

Judge Martin took the testimony to heart and made some notes. He had been a lawyer and judge for many years and had seen many different cases. This one he hadn’t seen before. He listened to the impassioned voice of the woman sitting in the witness stand. She believed everything she was saying. Her body language said it all.

“Thank you Janine. Your witness, Mr. Summerston.” Janine froze in her seat. She was more nervous now.

Judge Martin hammered his authoritative gavel. “the court will now take a recess until nine am tomorrow morning. The witness will be excused and recalled tomorrow.” The lawyers nodded their heads as Janine left the stand and went to her husband. She was shaking like a leaf. Heath put a reassuring arm around her shoulders and squeezed.

“You did good, my pretty.” he whispered into her ear.

They watched as everyone filed out of the courtroom, and Nick came to the stand to talk to them. “You did good Neen,” Nick told her and Jarrod echoed the sentiment.

“What about tomorrow, Jarrod? What will happen tomorrow? I don’t mind tellin’ ya, I am frightened!”

“It’ll be the same as today. Only it will be the other lawyer not me.” Janine gave him a frightened look. “It’ll be okay. As long as you tell the truth, you’ll do fine.” Jarrod tried to reassure her. “Mother is expecting us home for supper, so we should get going all right?”

They arrived at the house, refreshed, but still a little shaky at the day’s events. Leah jumped into Janine’s arms. “Mama! Miss you!” Leah kissed Janine’s cheeks and hugged her tightly.

“I missed ya too Sweetie. Were you good girl for Aunt Audra and Gama Vic?”

“Yes Mama. Aunt Audwa wead. Pway me. Lunch me. Baby feed. Baby change. ewwww…baby stinky.” Leah held her nose. Janine laughed. “Papa come?”

“Yes, Papa will be here soon. He’s takin’ care of the horses.” Leah nodded, hugging her mother tightly again. “Lets sit down, k, Sweetie?” They sat down on the settee closest to the door and they had a quiet talk about Leah’s day. Soon after, the door opened and the three Barkley men strolled in.

“Papa! Unca Nick! Unca Jawwod!” Leah went running to her father who picked her up.

Audra and Victoria came out of the kitchen then with David when they heard Nick’s bellow, “MOTHER!” Leah put her hands to her ears and admonished her uncle,

“Unca Nick! Loud!” Everyone chuckled at the little blonde girl.

“Supper is ready everyone!” They all went to eat while Janine fed David. She missed her children and her house. They decided that they would go home tonight and have Audra come by the house tomorrow morning. After supper, Heath took his family home to sit and relax. It had been a long, exhausting day for them both and tomorrow would prove to be just as exhausting.

They arrived home, exhausted and bewildered. They settled the children down, and went out to their swing to relax. They didn’t say much, just sat there holding each other. Janine thought about her testimony today, hoping she didn’t cause her husband too much grief. She told the truth of what happened that day, and she was glad it was out in the open now. She had nothing to fear, everyone told her she did the right thing. But she didn’t like the fact that Heath was so quiet. She knew he was hurting but she did not know how to heal this pain. She sighed, snuggling closer to him, hoping she could love the pain away.

Heath sat on the swing, stroking her hair. He loved the feel of her hair, so silky and soft. He was thinking of her on the stand today. It took courage to testify like she did. He knew she was afraid of hurting him but if he didn’t know the truth, it would hurt him more. He could tell she was worried about the testimony tomorrow. That lawyer was going to be tough. Asking difficult questions, and finding her weak spots. He wasn’t looking forward to his turn.

“Janey?”

“Yeah Heath?”

“I’m proud of ya.”

“You are?” Heath nodded his head. “Why?”

“Ya did good on the stand today. Ya told the truth, and that’s what I wanted.”

“I was scared, Heath. I didn’t want to hurt ya. I’m sorry it has to come to this. That damn girl has got to get out of our lives!” Heath chuckled.

“Janey, did ya know that you’re beautiful when you’re riled up like a rattlesnake ready to strike?”

“Heath Barkley! What a thing to say to me!” She hopped into his lap, “I’m not a rattlesnake!” He chuckled as she placed a kiss near his lips. “Come on Heath, we have a long day tomorrow, we should get some sleep, don’t ya think?” She got up off his lap, waiting for him to follow her. They checked on the children and went to bed, falling asleep almost immediately.

The next morning they rushed around getting ready for another trip to town. Janine did not want to testify again today but she had no choice. Heath was up after her. Then the other side would call their witnesses. Jarrod stopped by, dropping Audra off to look after the children. He told the couple not to worry and that he would meet them at the courthouse.

The small courthouse was filled to capacity. Word of Heath’s supposed indiscretion had gotten out and everyone wanted to see the outcome of the hearing. Heath and Janine strolled slowly up to the front table to where Jarrod had his notes and briefs laid out. Jarrod looked up and motioned them to sit down.

Judge Martin entered the courtroom and everyone stood up while he seated himself behind the massive bench. The court was now in session. Kelly’s lawyer recalled Janine up to the stand. She retook her oath to tell the truth and seated herself on the witness stand.

“Good morning, Mrs. Barkley.” She nodded, wringing her hands in her lap. “ How long have you known Miss Humphries?”

“Not long, I reckon. About a year.”

“You met her at the Orphanage?”

“Yes sir”

“Did she seem to be happy when you observed her there?”

“Yes sir.”

“Why do you go to the orphanage?”

“I was invited to go there with my sister-in-law who helps out there every week.”

“What did you do there?”

“I helped Audra with the children, keeping them entertained with games and stories, things like that.” Summerston nodded.

“Did Miss Humphries help you at all?”

“Once in a while she did, but she mostly kept to herself, in the kitchen and doing other things away from the children.” answered Janine.

“Did she give you any sign of not liking you?”

“No sir. We didn’t speak much.”

“When she was a guest at your house, was she angry?”

“Yes sir, she seemed to be angry at me for some reason.”

“You gave her no reason to be angry at you?”

“No sir” Heath sat forward, listening to his wife answer the questions with no emotion. He was concerned that she was going to break down in tears, but she trudged through the questions, answering truthfully as she remembered it.

“How do you and your husband get along?”

“Good”

“Do you fight?”

“No”

“Has he ever strayed from the marriage before?”

“NO! I mean no sir.” Janine did not like to think about Heath kissing anyone else but her. “Heath is not like that”

“But he kissed Miss Humphries”

“No. She kissed him, there is a difference.”

“Oh? Explain it to me.”

Janine fidgeted in her chair, clearly uncomfortable with this topic. She looked to Jarrod, to Heath then thought about how to explain what she meant.

“Well…ummm…she hugged him while he stood there. She pressed herself against him and tried to kiss him. He pushed her away. That’s the difference, Sir” She looked down at her hands, embarrassed that she had to answer such a question.

“Do you believe the baby that Miss Humphries is your husband’s?”

“No I don’t”

“Why? Don’t you think your husband is capable of straying?”

“My husband is a good, kind man who wouldn’t dream of touching anyone the way you’re suggesting, let alone a young girl” She was close to tears.

“Why would Miss Humphries say that the baby she is carrying belongs to Mr. Barkley if he didn’t touch her?”

“I don’t know! She’s lying!”

“How do you know she’s lying?”

“Because I know my husband!” The tears were threatening to fall but she refused to give in to her emotions. Heath wanted to give Summerston a piece of his mind for putting her through this.

“Objection Your Honor!” interjected Jarrod with authority.

“On what grounds?”

“He’s badgering the witness”

“Sustained”

“Mrs. Barkley, you were married before were you not?

“Yes sir” Janine looked around at Jarrod, clearly puzzled. Jarrod sat forward in his chair, listening to every word. There was no expression or emotion on his face. Heath sat back on his chair, listening, and fuming but kept quiet.

“Was that a good marriage?”

“No sir”

“Was he unfaithful?”

“Yes”

“But you don’t think your present husband, could be unfaithful to you now?”

“No sir, Heath is nothing like my first husband!”

“You trust Mr. Barkley explicitly?”

“Yes sir” Heath gave her a slight smile and a wink.

“No more questions Your Honor.”

“You may leave the stand, Mrs. Barkley. Thank you”

Jarrod stood up and called his next witness. “I call Heath Barkley to the stand” Heath stood up, weakly, and made his way to the stand. He swore the oath to tell the truth the whole truth and nothing but the truth. He sat in the witness stand, no expression on his face, staring blankly at Jarrod, waiting for the inevitable questions. Boy howdy, how did I get myself into this? he thought gloomily to himself. He had been through trials before as a witness but never to defend himself from such a vicious lie. His emotions were all over the place, he didn’t know whether to run, to hide, or to laugh at the ridiculous accusation. It just seemed hopeless. His eyes wandered over to Janine who was sitting stiffly in her chair, but listening to every word.

“Heath, I know this is difficult for you but I have to ask. Are you the father of Kelly Humphries’ baby?”

“No I’m not”

“Did you in anyway touch her?”

“Not in that way, Jarrod”

“In what way, did you touch her?”

“I-I-I helped her into the wagon, put my arm around her when she was upset about something.”

“Did you ever kiss her?”

“She kissed me, I pushed her away”

“How many times did she throw herself at you?”

“Objection, leading the witness” Summerston interjected, rather loudly

“Sustained” Judge Martin was listening intently to the dialogue and agreed with Summerston about the objection.

“How many times did she kiss you Heath?” Heath looked up at his lawyer brother with such a pained expression in his eyes but his voice remained steady and calm.

“about four times I reckon. I pushed her away and told her to stop it” Jarrod observed Heath who was struggling with his emotions.

“How long have you known Miss Humphries?”

“Not sure, met her a few times when we went to the orphanage.”

“Did she, at any time, show any inclination towards you?”

“She was always very nice towards me. But she never made any advances to me if that’s what you mean”

“That’s what I meant. How did she act at your house?”

“She was very sullen, and spoke in rude tones to my wife, mean to my daughter. I spoke to her about it and it stopped in my presence.”

“Was there a reason for her acting this way towards your family?”

“None that I could see. I spoke to Janine about it but she had said nothing that made me believe that she had caused the insolence.” Jarrod walked over to his notes that were lying on the table, and winked at Janine. She smiled at him and wondered what was coming next. He shuffled through the papers, set them down and paced himself back to the witness stand.

“She did all these things to you and yet you let her stay?” Jarrod prodded gently.

“Well I thought she would settle down. After she hurt Leah, I was angry, real angry. I thought takin’ her back to the orphanage and decided it wasn’t a good idea. It would’ve been like running away from the problem, remove it and it will disappear. Doesn’t work. I thought if we showed that we cared about her, she would be a better person.”

“I see. You tried to show her that kindness and consideration was the better route to go?”

“Yes” Heath was fidgeting around in the uncomfortable chair.

“You had another orphan staying with you as well?”

“Yes. Steve Barlow”

“How was he as a guest at your house?”

“He was fine. He went to work with me on the ranch and helped out at the house.”

“Did he and Kelly get along?” Heath thought about the question before answering. He sat there for quite awhile, thinking, until Jarrod said, “Well?”

“I reckon they did”

“You don’t know?”

Heath looked at his feet. “No” he said quietly. “When we came home from a day’s work on the ranch, he sat around and talked to Janine and me. Played with Leah and David but never really said much to Kelly.”

Jarrod nodded. “No more questions Your Honor but I reserve the right to call this witness again”

“Granted” The spent judge picked up his gavel and pounded it against the desk. “Court is recessed until two pm” He picked up his notes and left the room. Heath dragged himself out of the worn chair and slowly made his way to his wife. He put his arm around her and guided her out the door to the restaurant across the street.

After lunch, they made their way back to the courthouse, dreading the rest of the afternoon. Summerston was bound to ask some pretty hard questions so Heath steeled himself and sat down, waiting to be called up to the chair again.

Once up on the stand again, Summerston probed the cowboy with questions.

“Why do you bring children home from the orphanage Mr. Barkley?”

“Because we like children and want them to have a little holiday away from the orphanage.”

“Do you do this often?”

“This was the first time.”

“Why did you pick Miss Humphries to come home with you?”

Heath pondered this question. “Because I thought she could use the time away. She looked sad sitting in the corner, away from everyone else.”

“So you felt sorry for her?”

“I reckon”

“Sorry enough to father a baby with her?”

“I didn’t touch her!”

“Why did you ask Steve Barlow to come home with you?”

“Same reason”

“Felt sorry for him?”

“Yes”

“Do you love your wife?”

“Yes”

“Do you love your children?”

“Yes.”

“Did you kiss Miss Humphries?”

“No. She kissed me.” Heath fidgeted in the chair, trying to understand the questions.

“And you let her?”

“I didn’t! I gently pushed her away”

“With the young boy in your house, did she make any advances towards him?”

“Once at the picnic we had. She flirted with him, wanting attention I reckon.”

“Any other time?”

“My wife caught her coming out of his bedroom late at night doing up her night clothes.” Summerston stared at him. Obviously Kelly hadn’t told him about this.

“You didn’t see her?”

“No.”

“But you believed your wife?”

“No reason why I shouldn’t.”

“No more questions Your Honor,”

“Witness may step down from the stand. Thank you Mr. Barkley.”

Heath wearily walked to the table where Jarrod and Janine were sitting and sat down. Janine grasped his hand and squeezed. He gave her a sideways glance and sighed. Now just for Kelly. What would she say about it?

The Judge banged his gavel and announced that court was adjourned until the next morning at nine. “Court dismissed!” He picked up his notes and swept out of the courtroom.

That night, they had a quick supper and played with the children. They both missed them and enjoyed the gaiety of Leah. “Mama, town again?” Janine nodded.

“Ya havin’ fun with Aunt Audra?”

“Yes. Audwa pwayed me. Me help lunch. Walk me. Pwayed hide see.”

“That sounds like fun Leah. Where did ya walk to?”

“Outside. Horses. Orange trees. Vewwy nice.” Heath listened as his wife and daughter shared their day. He grinned to himself as Leah threw herself on his lap. Janine picked up David and changed his diaper, then went to give him a bottle. She sat back down on the chair and heard Leah ask, “what do you?”

“We visited Uncle Jarrod at his work” drawled Heath quietly.

“Oh Unca Jawwod fun?” Heath smiled widely at the question.

“Sure Lil One” He laid her down on his lap and attacked her ribs with a tickling. Janine laughed at the squealing that Leah was eliciting. David wailed when the bottle slipped out of his mouth, Janine put it back in and he hungrily drank it.

“Papa! Top it! Pwease!” Heath laughed and set his daughter onto her tiny feet. She stumbled a bit after the excitement but he caught her before she fell. She attacked him with a tickling of her own. He fell back onto the sofa and she crawled on top of him, tickling him.

“Leah! I reckon Papa’s had enough!” Leah didn’t relent as quick as he wanted so he picked her up with one strong arm and rose off the sofa. He placed her on his shoulders and took her for a ride. She giggled with glee as they went all over the house, finally settling down on the couch. “K Lil One. Time to settle down now. I reckon its shut eye time soon for a certain young lady.”

“Papa. No seep.” She looked at him with her big blue eyes and yawned. “reckin I seep now Papa” Her parents chuckled as Heath took her hand, leading her upstairs. Janine followed along behind bringing David and lying him quietly in his crib for the night. “Mama wead me?”

“Sure Love. What would ya like to hear?”

“Seeping Buty” Janine opened the fairy tale book and sat on the bed beside her as did Heath. This nightly ritual took place of the reading that they used to do in their bed before Leah was born. Janine read the story and when she was done they tucked her in and pulled the blankets up. “G’night Mama. G’night Papa.”

“Night Lil One” they said together. They left, leaving the door ajar and going down the stairs. They took their nightly place out on the porch swing, swinging in comfortable silence. As they sat together, enjoying each other’s presence, they thought about the happenings of the day. It had been a long hard day, tomorrow promised to be just as long and difficult.

Jarrod and Jenny sat up late talking about what his brother was going through. Jarrod was worried but he tried not to let anyone know. He hoped that Kelly would come to her senses and tell the truth once and for all. Jenny kissed him and told him not to worry. That everything would work out. “Don’t fret honey,” she told him. “Besides I have something I need to tell you” Jarrod looked up from his papers and took her gently in his arms.

“What is it Lady Love?” His eyes full of concern.

“Oh silly. It’s nothing serious. Nothing that can’t be cured in six months” Jenny said casually, waving her hand.

“Oh that’s………” Jarrod hugged her tightly. “You…me….I mean….” He was flabbergasted.

“Yes Honey! We are going to have a baby in about six months. In the spring. Are you happy?”

“Jenny you just made me the happiest man!” Jenny smiled and hugged Jarrod, kissing him passionately. Now if they could win the slander case, everything would be perfect! They went to bed that night full of emotions. Happy that they were going to be parents and worried about Kelly’s testimony tomorrow. Holding his wife, he put it out of his mind for the minute. He had better things to think about.

The next morning at the courthouse, everyone arrived early. Heath and Janine took the seats next to Jarrod. The judge entered the room and all is quiet. The hearing had started.

“You may call your witness, Mr. Summerston.” Mark Summerston, rose from his table and walked towards the judge’s bench.

“I call Kelly Humphries” She strolled up to the stand, took her oath and sat down. She looked like a hurt little girl. She watched her lawyer with interest, but inside she was frightened. She fidgeted in her chair, waiting for Summerston to ask his first question.

“Good morning Miss Humphries” Kelly looked at him blankly not saying anything. “How are you today?”

“I’m fine.” She replied sullenly.

“How well do you know Mr. and Mrs. Barkley?”

“I met them a few times” She lowered her eyes and looked at her hands.

“At the orphanage?”

“Yeah”

“Do you like them?” she shrugged her shoulders.

“Answer yes or no, please.”

”I don’t know. I guess”

“Are you going to have a baby?”

“Yes”

“Who is the father?”

“He is” she said pointing towards the blond cowboy. Heath closed his eyes and grasped Janine’s hand. She squeezed it, telling him it would be okay.

“And who is he?”

“Heath Barkley” Heath almost leaped out of his seat at the accusation but Jarrod and Janine calmed him down. Janine whispered in his ear that she loved him and it would be all right. Things would work out. Trust your brother. The crestfallen cowboy nodded slowly and held her hand.

“Are you sure?”

“Yes sir”

“Can you tell me what happened while you were under the care of the Barkleys?”

“They were making me do all the work, baby-sitting the little br—I mean the kids. I did not like that. If I wanted to work I woulda stayed at the orphanage.” She was clearly agitated at the memory. Janine smiled at Jarrod and sat back. This was going to be good.

“Can you tell the court how you came to be intimate with Mr. Barkley?”

“Well, I was in the barn, watching He-I mean Mr. Barkley tend to his horses. We talked a little bit about how much work it was to take care of them. He was talking so quietly, I had to move closer to hear him. He has a wonderful voice you know.” She smiled serenely at the lawyer. She continued, “ Anyway, I moved closer and he put his arm around me and showed me how to curry, I think its called, the horse. He held my hand and then I don’t know how it happened but he kissed me. Telling me that his wife was always nagging him about this and that and that he wasn’t happy.” She paused looking over to the Barkleys to see their reaction. Heath was clenching and unclenching his fist. Janine just sat there stunned that she would say such a thing. Jarrod had on his best lawyer face, taking notes, showing no emotion at all but inside he was seething. He knew his brother loved Janine with a passion that matched his own with Jenny’s. He knew Heath was not the father of this child. There was no doubt about it.

“He told you that he wasn’t happy in his marriage?”

“Yes sir”

“Go on” Summerston encouraged.

Kelly took a deep breath and continued. “He kept kissing me and rubbed his hands all over me. It scared me.” She burst into tears at this point.

Janine smirked behind her hand, this girl is so good, she mused to herself.

Kelly went on to describe the whole incident, claiming he took her forcibly in the back of the barn. She cried through the whole testimony, making Heath wince.

“Did you tell anybody about what happened?”

“No sir.”

“Why not?”

“Because I was scared no one would believe me. No one ever believes an orphan” She looked pitiful as she spoke.

“No more questions Your Honor”

“Mr. Barkley your witness” Jarrod got up and strolled over to Kelly.

“Hello Miss Humphries. We meet again.”

“Mr. Barkley.”

“Tell me Kelly…May I call you Kelly?”

“Yes sir”

“Tell me Kelly. Have you had many boyfriends?”

“One or two”

“Did you love them?”

“Yes, I guess”

“Did they love you?”

“I guess they did”

“What happened when you broke up with them? Were you upset?”

“Yes of course I was!”

“Did you just break up with someone when you stayed with Mr. and Mrs. Barkley?”

“Y-y-yes”

“Is it possible that your former boyfriend is the father of your child?”

“No! It’s Mr. Barkley I tell you!” She burst into real tears and Jarrod handed her a tissue.

“Who was your last boyfriend, Kelly?” She stopped crying and pondered the question posed to her. “Kelly? Who was your boyfriend?”

“Steve Barlow” she said very quietly.

“Who?”

“Steve Barlow” she said a little louder. Heath and Janine sat up and took notice of her answer. That explains it, she thought to herself and glanced at her husband. He was deep in thought, his brow furrowed in understanding.

“Was it true that Mrs. Barkley saw you coming out of his room in the middle of the night?”

“Yes” she said quietly.

“Why were you in his room?” He pierced his eyes at her.

“Because I wanted to make up with him”

“Were you intimate with him that night?”

Kelly hung her head. Janine and Heath leaned forward waiting for her reply. When she did, it was barely audible.

“Yes” Jarrod leaned against the bench.

“Could you say that a little louder?”

“Yes! Yes! I was intimate with Steve that night. I wanted him back. He wouldn’t take me back so I thought I would accuse Mr. Barkley of being with me because I didn’t like Mrs. Barkley. I hate her. She is so almighty good and nice, she makes me sick. Her daughter is so spoiled rotten, that I just wanted to hurt them. Happy? Are you happy?” She burst into real tears at the admission and the Barkleys sighed in relief.

“Your Honor, I move that this case be dismissed.”

“Do you concur, Counselor Summerston?”

“Yes I concur.”

Judge Martin clapped the gavel on the large wooden bench. “Case dismissed. Heath Barkley, you’re dismissed of all charges.” He banged the gavel again, “Court dismissed!” He took his notes and exited the room in a regal fashion.

Jarrod gathered up his notes and Janine walked over to the sobbing teen. “I’m sorry we had to put you through all that Kelly. I hope you and the baby will be okay. I really do like you. I hope you believe me.”

Kelly looked up at the lady with tear stained eyes and spat, “I hate you! Don’t you ever come near me again. I hate you!”

“I’m sorry you feel that way, Kelly.” Janine turned around walking away from her and taking the welcoming hand of her husband. It was over. They wouldn’t have anything to worry about anymore.

After they left the courthouse, they went home, told Audra the good news and headed off to the mansion for supper. Everyone was in good spirits that night. Leah went from relative to relative, enjoying the attention that was lavished upon her. Jarrod and Jenny announced their good news after supper. Nick poured drinks for everyone and made a toast to the new parents. “This family just keeps expandin’ and next year we will add another one to our midst.” He stopped to put his large arm around Chelsea. She smiled up at her cowboy and snuggled closer. “this is to happiness all around. May it always last.” Everyone raised their glasses in the toast “Here, Here” they all smiled and had a sip.

Later that night, snuggled tightly in their bed, they spoke in quiet tones. “I’m so glad everything worked out Heath. I was gettin’ worried.” She teased him with a kiss near his lips.

“Boy howdy, Janey. Me too. I didn’t know what to do. But I knew I hadn’t touched her, I was hopin’ her conscience would start buggin’ her.” He nibbled on her ear, making her moan lightly. He kissed her face slowly, enticingly, and lovingly.

She tried to say something, but he looked deep into her emerald eyes and placed his long slender finger upon her lips, shushing her. “Let’s not talk, I have a better idea.” His gaze penetrated her soul. She shivered in anticipation as he caressed her lovingly, and kissed her lips. She parted her lips and melted in his arms. This was the spot she wanted to be, in her cowboy’s arms. Now and forever.

THE END