RUN OF THE CAT

by Lily B.

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.

AN ALTERNATE UNIVERSE STORY – My thoughts on what happened after the episode "Run of the Cat" … one of my favorites.

They returned to the ranch, drenched with sweat, filthy and dog-tired to the point of barely being able to stand. The taller man was feeling the pain of the injuries he had sustained from the big cat and he leaned heavily into the professional hunter for support.

“Nick!” Victoria cried out when she saw her son appear in the doorway. Immediately, she went to his side and brought his arm around her.

Despite the fact that he towered over his Mother, Nick was always able to lean on her, both figuratively and literally. He was grateful for her offered assistance; the pain in his chest from his earlier wounds felt like hot irons shooting through him. All he desired was a hot bath and his massive bed.

Victoria looked up at the hunter with questioning eyes.

“Yes, the cat’s dead.” Edward Tanner replied simply. “Nick killed him.”

She nodded back at him numbly; tears beginning to well up in her eyes. If Tanner had expected a look of surprise at who was responsible for the cat's death; there was none to be found. Victoria had known from the minute that Nick had gotten out of bed, against doctors orders, that he would be the one to kill it and no one else. But all she had wanted was for her son to return home safely, in her mind, the death of the cat was merely a bonus.

Having sequestered himself in his room while he waited for his younger brother to return home; Jarrod paced the floor. He was anxious for his headstrong and badly injured brother to come through the door safe and sound. Upon hearing the door open and his Mother’s cry, Jarrod flung open his door and went to the stairs. He spotted Nick in the foyer, looking pained and worn; Jarrod wasted no time in going to his younger brother's side. Rather than trying to take his Mother’s place next to him, as he knew she would not relinquish it, he nodded at Mr. Tanner. Tanner acknowledged and moved away, allowing Jarrod to slip his arm around Nick and assist him to his room.

Victoria and Jarrod deposited Nick on his bed and the two set about removing his boots and clothing. Nick was halfway into a full sleep; he muttered something that neither one could understand.

“What was that Nicholas?” His mother asked him softly.

Nick groaned back at her, “lots prettier than a mud fence, lots.”

A small laugh escaped his Mother’s lips, “What on earth is he talking about?” She whispered to her eldest.

Jarrod just shrugged his shoulders, as equally in the dark as his Mother. “Probably just a dream of some sort Mother. Or perhaps, Mr. Tanner can shed some light on his comment.”

Victoria kissed Nick’s forehead and pulled the covers up to his shoulders. Jarrod offered her his arm and she gladly accepted. They left Nick’s room to allow him his much needed rest and returned downstairs.

Edward Tanner was waiting for them at the bottom of the stairs. He looked up when he heard the two of them emerge from Nick’s room. She has to be the loveliest, most headstrong woman I’ve ever met. Victoria met his gaze and he was half-tempted to turn away but continued to watch her, their eyes not moving off of each other. She’s a force to be reckoned with, to be sure, not some young filly that’s easily tamed. No, she’s a lioness, strong and willful.

“And how is that stubborn son of yours, Mrs. Barkley?” He queried, with a small grin on his face.

“He’s resting now, I’m sure in the morning he’ll be back to his self again.” Victoria placed her hand over his on the banister. “I can’t thank you enough for bringing him home safely.”

“There is nothing to thank me for madam. As I said, Nick is the one that took care of the cat, not me.”

“You mean, you didn’t kill the cat? What happened?” Jarrod inquired. He had hired this man to take care of their cat problem and he wasn’t very pleased that Tanner had not done the job he had been hired for.

Victoria led the three of them into the parlor and cast an angry glance in the direction of her son; she didn’t much care for Jarrod’s tone of voice. Sitting down on the loveseat; she was amused to find that she was glad when Mr. Tanner sat down next to her.

Edward Tanner ran through the events of the last day and a half with Victoria and Jarrod. He didn’t leave out anything, not even the run in they had with Giles and Beth. He added that he thought Nick had been quite taken with the young and pretty Beth. Victoria smiled to herself; her son certainly gave his heart away quite easily.

“Mr. Tanner?” She asked, “As Nick was drifting off, he said something about being prettier than a mud fence, do you know what that was about?”

Tanner laughed heartily, “He said that? Well, that was something Beth had said to him. I think she’s had rather a difficult life and she confided to Nick that her father told her she was uglier than a mud fence. I must say that her father’s assessment was quite off the mark. She really is a pretty thing, Beth doesn’t even closely resemble a mud fence!”

She looked down thoughtfully and asked, “Well, now that this Giles fellow is dead. What is going to become of this young woman?”

“Ah, well I do believe that your son promised to see to it that she wouldn’t wind up as a saloon girl again. We stopped back to see her on our way here and although I didn’t hear all of the discussion, that is the general gist of what Nick said to her.”

“That certainly sounds like Nick!” Jarrod laughed. He got up and poured three drinks off the small bar and handed them out. Leaning against the fireplace mantle, he looked over at Tanner. “So where will you be heading now, Mr. Tanner?”

Tanner looked to Victoria and their eyes met again, “I do believe I might stay in your lovely town a little longer. I seem to recall hearing that there’s a dance later in the week, am I correct?”

“Yes you are. And you would certainly have your pick of several pretty young ladies that live here. I doubt any of them has met a professional hunter, that would probably think it quite an exotic profession.” Jarrod, lost in his own apprehension for his brother, was completely oblivious of the growing attraction between his Mother and Mr. Tanner.

The land held endless possibilities. She could farm it; she certainly had sufficient experience when she was a lass. Beth had never felt so free as she did at this moment. Giles was dead and Purgatory was over with. Perchance now, she could truly be herself and exist the way she had wanted to.

There had never been possibilities for her before and she was elated at the prospect. When she had been the tender age of fourteen, she had become a saloon girl. There were no other options when her Mother died and she was left with three younger siblings to care for. Men had touched her, fondled her in places no girl her age should have experienced and yet it had kept food on the table and a roof over their heads. Beth didn’t regret it; she had merely done what needed to be done.

Beth’s thoughts wandered to the cowboy she had cared for yesterday and wondered if he was a man that was true to his word. Would he return, I did after all point a gun at him. Certainly wouldn’t mind if he came around again, Nick Barkley, she mouthed his name several times. Beth returned inside the diminutive house and went to the bedroom. From underneath the bed, she retrieved a small box and opened it slowly. Giles hadn’t left her penniless; she counted the money that Giles had never allowed her to touch before. Her eyes went large and her mouth dropped in shock. That can’t be right, she thought. Beth counted the money again, at a snail's pace. Two hundred dollars!

Beth left the money in the middle of the bed and changed her clothes as hurriedly as she could. Retrieving the one horse she had from his stall, she hooked him up to the wagon. Wadding up the money into a ball, she threw it into a small bag and headed to town. She was going to do something for the very first time; Beth was going to have her very own bank account.

Her first stop, however, was the General store. Determined to change her world for the better, she purchased several items for her home. Fresh and vivid curtains, new pots to cook with and brand new bedding; they would all serve to make the small house hers. She fully intended to burn the old bedding in a small bonfire, once she returned home. Beth couldn’t stop smiling while she walked down the street to the bank. The teller behind the counter had never seen this young woman before; but he was more than happy to open the account for her and explain to Beth how it would work and that she would collect interest on her money.

“You mean,” She asked incredulously, “All I have to do is leave some money in here and I’ll get more?” Whoever heard of such a thing! A familiar voice was heard and she turned to see Mr. Tanner conversing with the bank manager. Patiently she waited for him to finish and then approached.

“Why Beth! What a pleasure it is to see you.” Mr. Tanner bowed slightly before her and she couldn’t resist giggling a bit at his gallantry. “Do you have an account here?” He asked.

“I do now!” Beth said proudly. “Seems that Giles didn’t leave me completely penniless after all.” She paused and looked down at her feet, “How is Mr. Barkley?”

“He’s going to be just fine. Don’t you fret now Beth!” Edward Tanner put his arm around the girl’s shoulder and led her from the bank. “As a matter of fact, I’ve been invited there this afternoon to go riding. Why don’t you come with me? I’m sure Nick would be delighted to see you again!”

“Oh no, it wouldn’t be proper for me to intrude on his family like that!”

“You wouldn’t be intruding Beth! Nick would be happy to see you, I’m sure of it!” Tanner reassured her; he knew it would bring a smile to the man’s face to see her again. Besides, even Victoria had inquired after the young woman, he was certain that the Barkleys would be pleased to make her acquaintance.

“Well, alright, but you sure they won’t mind?”

“Of course I am. Now Beth, you hurry on home. I’ll come around about two this afternoon and we’ll head over there together.”

She couldn’t hide her excitement at the prospect of seeing Nick again; she only hoped he would be just as excited to see her in his home.

Tanner called her back from her sprint to her wagon. “Uh Beth?” He rubbed his beard hesitantly, not wanting to offend her. “You uh, you might consider a new dress before you see him today.” He wanted to add in a bath and a new hairstyle, but thought better of it.

Beth looked down at her old dress; she hadn’t bought a new one or made one in several years. “You’re right, Mr. Tanner! I could use a new dress!” She grinned back at him and then ran across the street towards the dressmakers.

At one o’clock, Beth was dressed and ready for Mr. Tanner to take her to the Barkley home. She paced about her small kitchen and bit her fingernails, nervously. Glancing down at her dress, she was pleased with the purchases she had made at the dress shop. Her ivory and sky blue gingham dress set off the blue in her eyes and she had tied her hair back with a coordinating blue bow. Beth hadn’t worn her hair down in a very long time, Giles had often told her that her hair looked like straw and he hadn’t meant it as a compliment. She had pinned up her hair every day since he had said that to her. Pulling a lock of hair to her nose, she sniffed at it; the faintest scent of roses hit her nostrils. The dressmaker had been so sympathetic, suggesting new soaps and scents for her to sample.

Beth heard a carriage stop in front of her house and went outside. Mr. Tanner pulled the horse to a stop and jumped down from the carriage. He stopped abruptly when he caught sight of Beth standing before him on her porch. Tanner pulled off his hat and swept it downwards in a large, exaggerated bow. “Why Miss Beth! You are truly a vision! Nick is not going to be able to take his eyes off you!”

“Ya really think so, Mr. Tanner?” She played nervously with her skirt.

“Oh most definitely, young lady. Why I can scarcely take my eyes off you! Nick’s a goner, that’s all there is to it. When he sees you, he’s a goner for sure!”

The door opened and Nick stopped his slow descent on the staircase. He could scarcely believe the sight before his eyes. “Beth, is that you?”

She stepped out from behind Edward Tanner and nervously smoothed imaginary wrinkles from her skirts. “Yes Nick, it’s me. I..I’m sorry, I wasn’t invited, I shouldn’t be here.”

Victoria, who had opened the door for this afternoon’s riding companion, watched the small scene unfold between her son and this young lady. Taking matters into her own hands, she swiftly put her arm about the attractive young woman and led her inside. “You must be the young woman that took care of Nick, out on the trail. We are all so grateful to you for your assistance. I’m Victoria Barkley, Nick’s Mother.”

Edward Tanner stood quietly watching; waiting for his opportunity to speak. “Victoria, Nick, fine day it is today.”

Nick, finally having completed his descent despite the discomfort, joined everyone in the front hall. All the while, not able to avert his gaze from the young woman before him. She cleans up real good, he thought to himself with a grin.

“Hey there Tanner,” He said, temporarily turning his attentions, “Whatcha doing here?”

“Oh well, your mother was kind enough to invite me for an afternoon ride. She wants to show off her precious valley, I suppose.” Mr. Tanner grinned from underneath his salt and pepper beard at the beautiful woman before him. Victoria’s eyes were extraordinary to the world-weary hunter and when she looked at him; he thought his heart could melt from her gaze. She was the type of woman he had avoided for years. Edward Tanner had always taken the company of young woman, pretty women, and inexperienced young women. Victoria was the type of woman he could spend a lifetime with, settle down with, and be her partner – her equal partner. His emerging feelings for her were more frightening to him; than any mountain lion he’d ever hunted. But perhaps, now he was ready for a real woman, a woman like Victoria.

Victoria looked at him, curious what was going through his mind. “Perhaps,” She smiled warmly at him, “We should leave these two to get reacquainted and go for our ride. There’s so much I’d like to show you!”

“Indeed.” Tanner replied, “I think a little time alone is just what the doctor ordered.”

Tanner put out his arm to Victoria and she locked her arm in his; they exited the house and headed to the barn to retrieve her horse. Mr. Tanner saddled Misty Blue for her and they were underway.

Victoria rode wordlessly and comfortably with Mr. Tanner. She immensely enjoyed this opportunity to go riding with someone other than her children. Not that she didn’t thoroughly enjoy riding with her children; but it had been entirely too long since she had enjoyed a man’s company. And she found Mr. Tanner, Edward, to be quite the intriguing riding companion.

She spoke of her land and the valley with so much love in her voice and he was beginning to comprehend why she adored this place. It seemed to him, that every nook, every rock, held some significance to her. He longed for a place that meant that much to him; one full of memories and filled with the devotion she held for the valley. What he longed for was a home and a partner to share it with.

Once his Mother left the house with Mr. Tanner. Nick put out his arm and escorted Beth into the parlor. His movements were slow and tentative; still a certain amount of soreness was involved in each of his steps.

Seating himself alongside her, Nick looked over at her with an appraising eye. Her hair was much lovelier when she wore it down, rather than pinned up. He liked the soft blonde waves that cascaded down to mid arm’s length. He could just faintly catch the agreeable scent of roses and soap on her and just the slightest hint of tint on her lips. But it was her eyes that virtually took his breath away; he had taken note of them when she had cared of him. Such large azure eyes, just like a doe’s he thought to himself. So full of innocence and yet, he remembered her telling him that she had seen a lot of ugly things in her life. Such beautiful eyes should never behold anything ugly in this world.

Beth interrupted his thoughts, “You seem to be feeling better today, and you’ve gotten your color back. I was concerned about you.”

“Huh? Oh yeah, much better today. Thanks to you! I can’t thank you enough for everything you did for me.”

Beth fidgeted nervously in the loveseat, then beamed at him in a large smile; brightening her full face. “Oh, it was my pleasure Mr. Barkley. I truly didn’t mind at all!”

“Now Beth, if you and are to be friends, you’re going to have to call me Nick, Mr. Barkley just doesn’t cut it.” Nick spoke to her in a silky voice, the same gentle voice he had used with her when he had knelt in front of her and took a gun from her hands. Had that only been two days ago, he wondered to himself.

“Alright..Nick.” She smiled again but it disappeared quickly and she bit her bottom lip hard.

Nick saw the change in her expression, “Beth, what is it?” He put his hand over hers, wondering what had darkened her lovely face.

“It’s just..It’s just that I wonder what you must think of me.”

He was puzzled by what she said, “Think of you? I’m afraid I don’t understand, what are you talking about?”

“Well, the fact that Giles won me in a poker game, you must not really think much of me.” Beth’s head lowered, ashamed of what she had been and what she had done with her life thus far.

Nick lightly squeezed her hand, “No Beth, that’s not true. You’ve had a very hard life. I don’t hold any of your past against you. What I see before me now is a beautiful woman, an independent woman; what you do with your life now is entirely up to you. Now, I would say that any person who would take in a complete stranger and nurse him back to health, why that’s a very special person indeed!”

No one had told her anything like that before. “You really think I’m special?” Her large eyes fixed on him; wanting so much to hear those words again.

“Not just special, very special Beth.” He traced her jaw line from its curve to her chin with his fingertips. Leaning in, he stole a soft but brief kiss. Nick looked at her closed eyes and her delightful mouth. She even tastes good, he smiled.

Beth’s eyes fluttered open slowly, her head full of thoughts and emotions. She wore a pleasantly surprised expression on her face. She wasn’t quite sure what to make of his kiss. Was it purely sympathetic, friendship or more than that? Beth silently hoped it was the latter.

Nick didn’t release her hand; he held it tightly in his own and softly caressed her palm with his thumb. “So what comes next for you Beth? You’re a free woman now. You know I did promise you that I would help you get on your feet.”

“Oh thank you Mr…I mean Nick. But I found a stash of money that Giles had hidden underneath the bed and you know what I did? I opened my very own bank account, over one hundred dollars!” Beth said, her voice echoing the excitement she felt.

“Now that is good news! But you know, even though it sounds like an awful lot of money, it won’t last forever Beth. Have you given any thought to what you might do with your life?”

Beth blushed fiercely, “Oh, you’re probably going to think it’s the silliest idea you’ve ever heard!”

“Oh no I won’t! Come on now, what are you thinking?” He bent down his head to look at her down turned face and she broke into a fit of giggles at the face he made.

She worried that he would bust out laughing when she told him, but decided to tell him anyway. “Okay. I went to the store and bought several new baking pans. See, I’ve always been real good at baking things: muffins, cakes, pies, breads, name it and I can bake it for you! I was thinking I could make up some pies and muffins and bring them into town. I could sell them to the restaurants and at the General Store. Then when people start buying them; maybe I can open my very own bake shop.”

“Now what exactly is silly about that? You want to go into business for yourself, I think that’s a wonderful idea!” Nick rubbed his chin, an inspiration coming to mind. “You know, I bet if you bring some by, my Mother might buy some. See Silas is a great cook, but he never much cared for baking and Audra, forget it! Audra’s baked goods are best used for paper weights and target practice!”

Beth laughed hysterically at Nick’s assessment of his sister’s baking prowess. “Maybe I could bring a pie and some muffins by tomorrow?”

“Perfect! Then afterwards, perhaps you would do me the honor of joining for a picnic at the lake?”

“I’d like that very much. But are you sure you’re up to it Nick?” His slow movement across the room earlier hadn’t been lost on her.

“There’s a lot that I can’t do at the moment. But I think I can manage a picnic. And to prove it, how about you and I go for a walk in my Mother’s gardens. Most of the roses are in bloom right now, quite something to see.” Nick stood up and pulled her hand, entreating her to stand beside him.

Their fingers intermeshed together and they walked out through the French doors and into his Mother’s gardens.

At the very same moment, angry hands ripped at the new bedding Beth had purchased. They flipped over the bed, destroying everything in sight. Searching but not finding what they were looking for.

“Giles hid it here somewhere, I know he did.” The larger of the two men said, angrily.

“What about his woman? I bet she knows where it is!”

“I’m sure she does, well we will just have to ask her now won’t we.” The angry man broke into a grin, “And now that she ain’t Giles property no more, she’s fair game! What’s her name again?”

“Beth, I think. Yeah, she sure is a looker ain’t she. I’m gonna enjoy getting what we want from her!”

They returned to the ranch late in the afternoon and Edward Tanner escorted Victoria to the front door. “My dear lady,” He began, “Thank you for a magnificent afternoon. I enjoyed seeing your valley and now I understand why all of your family loves this place so much.”

“I’m pleased that you enjoyed our ride. I truly relished your company, this afternoon, Edward.” Victoria smiled sweetly at him. Indeed, it had been an awfully long time since she had the pleasure of a man’s company and Victoria found herself feeling like a desirable woman for the first time since before Tom’s death.

Mr. Tanner took her slender hands in his, “Victoria, I know this must sound strange coming from a man my age, but I would like your permission to call on you again.”

Victoria grinned and blushed like a schoolgirl, “I would like that, Edward.” She lowered her head, embarrassed by the flush in her cheeks.

He raised her chin with his large hand, “Don’t turn away Victoria, never has a blush looked so becoming.”

“Oh!” She laughed huskily, “You are a charmer, aren’t you?”

“Only for you.” He replied in all seriousness. Fondling her cheek, he leaned down closer to her face. “May I?”

Answering with a small nod of her head, she closed her eyes as his lips touched hers in a warm kiss.

Nick and Beth came around the front of the house and stopped when they saw the scene by the front door. Nick glowered, not appreciating their little moment together one bit. Although he liked Tanner, he certainly didn’t see him as suitable for his Mother. He was, after all, a man who didn’t settle down and lived for the hunt. Nope, he didn’t like what he saw at all!

Nick cleared his throat, “Mother, Mr. Tanner, I see you’re back from your ride.”

The spell of their kiss broken by the booming voice of her son, Victoria backed away from Edward and turned to Nick. “Oh yes we are. We had a lovely ride, didn’t we?”

“Oh um yes, yes we did. Simply splendid.” Tanner rubbed his beard nervously, feeling a bit like a boy who’d been caught behind the barn.

“I was about to ask Mr. Tanner to stay for dinner, how about you Beth? Can you stay?” Victoria asked.

“Thank you Mrs. Barkley, but I really must get home. But, Mr. Tanner, I came out here with you.” She looked at him, puzzled.

“Well then dear child, perhaps Nick will escort you home?” Tanner raised his eyebrows at Nick, who was too busy scowling at Tanner to have noticed the conversation.

“Huh? Oh, of course I’ll take you home Beth! Let me get the carriage ready. Only take me a minute.” Nick, still holding her hand, gave it a little squeeze and left her side.

Minutes later, Nick helped Beth into the carriage and drove her home. When they arrived at her house, she looked at it quizzically.

“Something wrong, Beth?” He asked, seeing the expression on her face.

“That’s funny,” She replied. “I know I closed the door when I left.”

But the front door to her home was wide open. Nick developed an uneasy feeling rapidly. “Stay here.” He said, regretting not having put on his gun before they left.

Two men looked out from the barn door and then back at each other. “She’s got company with her. What’ll we do now?”

“We wait, we’ll get her alone soon enough and when we do, she better have some answers right quick.”

Nick walked through the front door cautiously. The kitchen table was flipped over; her curtains were in shreds and all the cabinets opened with their contents all over the floor. He looked in the bedroom and her mattress and pillows were ripped open. Feathers and bedding lay everywhere. He heard the sound of her gasp in the front room and went to her.

Biting her lip hard, she tried hard not to cry. All the new things she had bought at the General store were ruined. She’d taken such care in picking all of them out. “Why?” Beth choked on her words, “Why would somebody do this, who? I don’t understand.”

Spotting the tears begin to well in her eyes, Nick took her in his arms and held her. “Come on, you’re not staying here. We’re going to go talk with the sheriff and then you’re coming back to the ranch with me.”

Beth nodded, “Alright Nick.”

Nick helped Beth back into the carriage and rode off towards Stockton, neither one of them aware of the men watching them from only a few feet away in her barn.

They had both spoken with the Sheriff but it had proven to be fruitless, except for the fact that he would try to find out more about what had happened. He had inquired about Beth’s former relationship with Giles and Nick had balked at the line of questions. Beth understood the questioning, however, it had not been the first time she had sat in the sheriff’s office.

“It’s alright Nick! Really it is. Sheriff, Giles won me in a poker game. Now I ain’t proud of my life, in some respects, but I never did rob nobody or steal or hurt or..or anything like that. I put food on the table for my kin and it was the only way I knew how. As for Giles, I’m ‘specially not proud of that. He wasn’t a nice man or a very good man. And I can think of way more enemies of his and can’t think of one friend.” Beth thought for a moment, “That’s pretty sad, ain’t it, to go through your whole life without one friend. I can think of a dozen enemies iffen you wanna know ‘bout them.”

“Can you give me their names and a bit about why they’re enemies to this Giles fella?” Fred asked.

“Yessir, I can certainly do that.” Beth launched into nearly a dozen names, with vivid descriptions of them, where they were last known to live and why Giles had considered them enemies.

“Well now!” The sheriff exclaimed, “You sure got yourself a fine memory!”

“Yessir, I don’ forget much. Guess that’s one good thing about me.” Beth found Nick’s hand on her elbow and rose from her chair.

“Thank you for your time, I’ll look into this.” Fred held out his hand to Nick and they shook briefly, “Nick, I guess I can find the lady at your house if need be.”

“She’ll be staying at the ranch until we find out who destroyed her home.” Nick put on his hat and led Beth from the Sheriff’s office. He put his massive hands about her waist as if to lift her into the carriage, but stopped. “Listen to me Beth.” A finger went underneath her chin and pushed it slightly, bringing her eyes to gaze at his. “There are a lot of good things about you. Don’t ever sell yourself short, you hear me?”

Beth nodded her head, just slightly. “Alright, Nick.”

“Good. Now, up you go.” He lifted her gently into the carriage and took his seat beside her. “Git” He called out with a flick of the reins.

Only needing one hand for the reins, he put his free hand on Beth’s clenched ones and gave it a brief squeeze. The sun dipped from the horizon and left a wake of brilliant colors darting across the endless sky. There was not a sole to be seen on the road to the Barkley estate and neither of them spoke a word. Beth listened, listened to the sounds of the birds, the clopping of the shod horse leading them to his home and the sound of the leather as Nick flicked the reins again. But mostly, when he pulled her close to him, she listened to the sounds of Nick breathing and felt his heart beating rhythmically in his chest. She should still be upset, crying even, she had told herself. But not right now, she needed something good and she had it, sitting right beside her with his arm circling her waist. A tall and handsome cowboy, with a big and sweet heart and Beth refused to think of anything else. Not her home, not Giles, only the man she had helped nurse back to health; there was nothing else.

Jarrod sat at the head of the table, opposite ends from his Mother. He eyed the hunter, warily, like a witness to be cross-examined. “So, Mother tells me that you plan on staying in Stockton for awhile longer.”

“Why yes, as a matter of fact, I’ve asked your Mother to accompany me to the dance the end of this week.” Edward Tanner replied with fork and knife in hand.

“The dance? Oh that’s wonderful, Mother!” Audra gushed sweetly. “Why I can’t remember the last time you went to one. We should both go shopping together for new dresses, wouldn’t that be fun?”

“Yes Audra,” Her mother nodded, “I’d enjoy that.” However, she didn’t look at Audra. She was staring sharply at her eldest son and had the table been shorter in length, she would’ve kicked him. Victoria knew well of that tone of voice he was using and she did not appreciate his using it on Edward.

“Now here I would’ve thought you’d be off to the next big hunt by now. Africa, perhaps? A great big lion or a rhino.”

“Jarrod, even a hunter needs a rest once in awhile. I think Stockton is a lovely place to take a little vacation, don’t you?” Victoria continued with her glaring at Jarrod and he finally took note of her anger.

“Yes, Mother. Stockton is a nice place to rest up before going back to the hunt. As long as that’s all your doing Mr. Tanner, resting up.”

“Perhaps, Jarrod, perhaps. But I just might find the land and the company in this town to be so irresistible that I’m unable to part from it.”

Victoria felt a blush warm her cheeks and looked down at her dinner.

“Mother? Are you alright?” Audra asked, “You’re a bit flushed.”

“I’m fine Audra, just fine.” She looked over to find Edward smiling warmly at her and she returned it, in kind.

The front door swung wide open and Nick burst inside, with Beth following in behind him. “Mother!” He boomed out.

“Nick, for heaven’s sake!” Victoria appeared in the front hallway and stopped when she saw Beth with him. “Oh Beth, you came back, I’m so glad you decided to join us for the evening after all.”

“Mother, her house was broken into. Ransacked, everything’s destroyed!” Nick exclaimed. By now, his brothers had joined them in the foyer. “All the things she had bought to start her own business are ruined.”

“Did ya go see the sheriff?” Heath asked.

“Yep, course he wasn’t much help.”

“Nick, there ain’t a lot he can do jest yet. We didn’ see who done it.” Beth added.

“Oh dear, that must’ve been horrible for you to find your home like that. Come into the dining room and I’ll have Silas get you something to drink. Tea, perhaps or a sherry?”

“Ma’am, you wouldn’t be havin’ some whiskey in your house, would ya?” Beth asked meekly.

Victoria’s gaze and stance was warm and accepting to Beth, “Of course Beth, something like this does call for a stronger libation. Jarrod, would you pour Beth and I a whiskey please?”

Jarrod was still talking with Nick and Heath and replied, “Of course.” Without giving it any thought, he walked to the bar. “Mother? Did I hear you right?”

“Yes you did, Jarrod, two whiskeys please.” She assured him.

Jarrod looked to both of his brothers, both of whom were wearing amused grins on their faces. He poured out two liberal fingers of whiskey and walked them into the dining room, handing one to his Mother and then, Beth. “Ladies.”

“Thank you sweetheart.”

Edward Tanner chuckled softly as he watched Victoria drink down the burning liquid without a second thought. Victoria Barkley was definitely not like any other woman; he’d ever met before.

After a few games of billiards and more than a few icy stares from two of Victoria’s sons; Edward Tanner opted to call it a night and head back to the hotel. He was fully aware of her two sons being adamantly opposed to the idea of his spending time with their Mother. The other son, Heath, he found extremely difficult to read. Whatever this blonde haired son felt about his being there, he kept it under a thick veil that Tanner was unable to see through and it frustrated him to no end. Being able to read people, understand them quite easily, was a strong point of his that he took great pride in. But, this Heath was very good at keeping his emotions under wraps.

“I thank you for a most interesting evening everyone. Victoria, the company and the dinner were pure perfection.” Tanner took her slender hand and kissed the top of it, keenly aware of all the sets of eyes on him. “My dear Beth,” He said, turning his attentions to the lovely blonde seated next to Nick, “I am so sorry for what happened to your home today. If I can be of any assistance, please don’t hesitate to ask.”

“Thank ya Mr. Tanner. I do ‘preciate your offer. But I’ll be okay.” Beth replied.

“Of course you will young lady, I have no doubt.”

“I’ll walk you out Edward.” Victoria, conscious of the fact that her sons were watching, linked her arm in Edward’s and walked with him outside. As she stepped off the veranda, she took a moment to gaze up at the starry sky. “It’s a lovely night, isn’t it?”

“Most definitely, Victoria. I must admit that this evening I felt a bit like Daniel.”

“In the Lion’s Den?” She grinned up at him. “You’ll have to forgive my sons. I’m afraid they are not used to the idea of their Mother being with anyone or caring about anyone other than them. I’m afraid to admit that it’s been a rather long time since I’ve had a gentleman’s company.”

Edward put a hand on her shoulder and turned her to face him. “Don’t apologize for them. They obviously love you a great deal. I daresay that I would be the same way if I were in their shoes.”

“You are too kind. I will be having a talk with two of my sons, I can tell you that much.”

“And the other? Heath? What does he think about this?”

“I really don’t know, not yet, Heath keeps his emotions to himself much of the time and I often find myself trying to figure out what is going on in his head. Audra, you know, is quite taken with you. I think she truly adores the idea of her Mother having a beau.”

“So, is that what I am then, a beau?”

“If you’d like to be.” Victoria looked up into Edward’s eyes, trying to search them for what he was feeling. But she found him just as difficult to read as her Heath.

He saw her searching for answers, but he was so used to keeping up a mask. For the first time in many years, Edward let go of the mask and allowed Victoria to see in his soul through his eyes. He watched a warm smile appear on her lips. “I would like to be your beau Victoria, I’d like that very much.” Edward took a gentle hold of her shoulders and leaned in to kiss her, but from the corner of his eye, he saw the curtains move in the parlor window. “Oh my dear, I’m afraid we are under watchful eyes.”

“Let them, if I know my boys, they’ll turn away. Maybe its time that they realized that their Mother is still a woman.”

“A very desirable and beautiful woman, Victoria.” Edward leaned down and kissed her tenderly, he forgot momentarily about the curtains moving and lost himself. His arms wrapped around her back and he pulled her in closely, kissing her passionately.

“Oh would you two stop it!” Audra chided her two dark haired brothers.

“What?!” Nick said, turning away from the window. Embarrassed by seeing his Mother being kissed by someone other than his Father.

Jarrod turned away also; very uncomfortable with what he had just seen. “Sis, we’re just trying to look out for her, that’s all.”

“You mean suffocate her!” Audra shot back.

“Ya know,” Heath said thoughtfully, “Mother is a grown woman.”

“Of course she is Heath.” Jarrod replied. “But she hasn’t been in any kind of relationship in a very long time.”

“Maybe that’s because she was afraid you would behave so badly that you would chase any man away that she was interested in!”

“Look Audra, Jarrod’s right, we’re just trying to make sure that she doesn’t get hurt.” Nick turned back to the window and looked out, he couldn’t believe they were still kissing and his mouth dropped open.

“Nick, maybe I shouldn’t say nothing, but your Ma’s a very pretty and smart lady. She’s bound to have men wanting her attention.” Beth had stayed quiet until now, but she felt she had to step in on Mrs. Barkley’s behalf. After all, she was certainly very welcoming to her and Beth thought Mrs. Barkley to be a very fine lady.

“Beth, you don’t understand. This man lives for the hunt. I’d bet he’s got a dozen ladies pining for him all over this country.”

“And more than a few with broken hearts.” Jarrod added.

Heath was growing irritated with the both of them. While he certainly could understand their protectiveness, for he felt it as well, they had no right to keep Mother from being happy. He slammed his coffee cup onto the table. “Would you two just listen to yourselves? Beth’s completely correct, our Mother is a very pretty and smart lady and she is a grown woman, not some fourteen-year-old girl. You both need to realize that.”

“But..” Nick started.

“But nothing you two!” Audra had her hands firmly planted on her hips. “Honestly, you are both behaving like spoiled children.” She turned and walked out of the room with Heath.

Victoria tried to catch her breath, it had been far too long since she had been kissed like that and her heart was pounding wildly. Edward was holding her in her arms and she relished the feeling of them around her.

“Shall I come to call tomorrow evening about seven?” He asked.

“Seven?” She asked breathlessly.

“For the dance, my dear.”

“Oh yes, the dance. Seven would be fine.”

Edward reluctantly pulled away from her, but not without another brief kiss. He mounted his horse and looked down at her, “Goodnight then, I am truly looking forward to tomorrow evening.”

“As am I. Goodnight.” Victoria stood and watched Edward ride away. She turned back and saw the curtains in the window close again and sighed. She was going to have a talk with her boys and no time like the present.

Victoria closed the door behind her and stepped into the parlor. “Boys, I trust you that you enjoyed the show?”

Nick threw his head back, drinking down a finger of whiskey in one hot gulp. A guilty look was thrown in the direction of his elder brother. “What show?”

Her arms crossed and she moved toe to toe in front of her tall son. “I am referring to the show that you watched from the window, Nicholas! You and your brother.” She leaned to the side and looked around Nick’s large frame to her counselor son.

He was only Nicholas when he was in trouble and it was during his youth, that he rarely seemed to be called anything else. But, that name in his adulthood, was something he didn’t hear very often and he became exceedingly uncomfortable. Looking downward at his Mother, he attempted to come up with a reasonable explanation, but failed miserably. “Well, I..umm..you see…”

Pappy responded quickly and tried to come to his brother’s aide. “We were just trying to look out for you Mother.” He regretted the words as soon as they had passed his lips. His Mother stepped back from Nick and strode across the room to him, her arms still tightly folded against her chest.

“Really now? Seems to me that where I come from, what you did is called spying, prying, nosy…shall I continue?”

Heath and Audra, having heard the beginnings of the exchange decided to rejoin the room.

Heath placed a small kiss on his Mother’s cheek. “No, don’t think you need to, think they see the point.”

“Thank you Heath.” She told him sweetly. “Perhaps, you would both stay out of my business from now on?” She turned on her heels and started to exit the room, but her Nicholas couldn’t leave it alone.

“But he’s a hunter Mother!” He droned at her and it got directly underneath her skin.

An audible sigh echoed from both Heath and Audra.

Victoria stopped and rotated her small frame back around to her middle son. “Yes, so he is. But I do not see that it has any bearing on this conversation.”

“Mother, it’s just that, well I don’t want you to get hurt. That’s all.”

“Nick, look even though I’m angry at you right now for spying on me. I do know that you did it out of love. But you listen to me Nick and listen well! Last time I checked I was still a grown woman and fully capable of making my own decisions. Besides,” Victoria’s face lit up with a smile that brightened the whole room, “It’s quite obvious to me when I look at all of you, I know I’ve made wise choices when it comes to relationships.”

“But, that was a very long time ago.” Nick added then bit his tongue. ‘Not a good thing to say, not a good thing..’

“Yes it was a very long time ago, Nicholas. Too long. Now if you’ll excuse me, I’m going to retire for the evening.” Victoria kissed the cheeks of each of her grown children and when finished, she turned to Beth. “Beth, my dear, you should get some rest. You’ve had quite the day. Things will look better in the morning, I know they will.”

“Thank ya Missus Barkley. I sure do hope so.” Beth received the small kiss on the top of her head, gladly. She looked on as Mrs. Barkley made her departure from the room and headed upstairs. ‘A real lady’, Beth thought to herself.

“Well now,” Audra started smugly, “I hope you two learned your lesson!”

He completely ignores his little sister’s comment and asked Jarrod, “You hired him. What do you know about Tanner?”

“He came highly recommended from a friend of mine in Sacramento. Often leads African safaris and hunts in the mountains of the Far East. Very experienced and very well traveled. I did some checking on him when I first heard of him. Seems he owns property in Africa, Hong Kong and a small town home in San Francisco. Never married and quite wealthy. So, I don’t believe that money is the issue where Mother is concerned.”

“No, he’s just looking for another conquest!” Nick replied angrily.

“Will you stop it!” Heath said. “What? Can’t handle Mother finding happiness, a companion? I don’t understand either of you.”

She had enough of this talk. Beth rose from her seat, “If ya’ll would excuse me, I’m gonna go to bed.”

“I’ll walk you up.” Nick put down his drink and followed her to the staircase.

“Thank ya. But I think I can find the room myself.”

Her iciness left him somewhat shocked. “Beth, are you mad about something?”

“No..well yes I am Nick! You have no right to treat your Ma like a child. She’s a great lady, even I can see that. Why ya treating her like that?”

“I’m just worried about her, that’s all. Come on Beth, don’t be angry with me. I need to see that pretty smile of yours.”

“I’ll give ya a smile if ya promise to let your Ma be and apologize.”

“I am sorry Beth…”

Her head shook, “Not ta me, Nick, ta your Ma!”

“Beth, but..”

“Forget it Nick. I's going to bed!” Her hand was abruptly pulled from his grasp and she stomped up the stairs angrily.

Audra just couldn’t resist pouncing on the opportunity. “Oh yes, you’re a fine one to be discussing relationships Nick.” She grinned at him as she passed him on the stairs headed towards her room.

“Oh be quiet!” He grumbled back. Nick trudged upstairs, grumbling under his breath all the while. Why wasn't anyone as bothered by all of this as Pappy and himself? He paused at Beth's door, considering knocking, but instead shook his head and went to his own room.

Dawn crept across the valley casting a warm glow across the vast Barkley land. It found Heath and Nick in the barn preparing to ride out and take the herd to water. Nick threw his leg over Coco and glanced back at his quiet brother.

"Ya coming?" He asked in a loud baritone voice.

"Yep." Heath answered simply.

They rode out across the valley, still slick with morning dew. Approaching the herd, Nick yanked back on the reins and stopped hard. He sat tall in the saddle and breathed in deeply. "Smell that air, Heath! I tell ya give me this space any day and this land. Can't see how our brother Jarrod can take San Francisco all the time. All those buildings and all those people, nope! Give me the space to ride, cattle and horses and I am one happy man!" Nick turned to Heath, "Ain't that right?"

"Uh-huh. Yep."

His large hand wrapped around the saddle horn and the other pushed his hat back on his head. His attempt to leave behind the events of yesterday appeared to have gone nowhere. "Ya still sore at me, aren't ya?"

"Yep." Heath gave a small kick to Charger and moved on ahead to the herd. He wasn't much in the mood for talking this morning. He couldn't understand why Jarrod and Nick were giving Mother so much trouble over her enjoying a man's company. But, although he would never admit it; he was dealing with his own inner turmoil. Was he going to far in one direction to be accepting of whatever mother did, because of how she had accepted him and welcomed into the family? When he had first come to the ranch, she could have turned her back on him, refused to accept him in the house and he could hardly have blamed her for it. She had been a victim in her husband's sin as much as he himself was. And yet, she was the first to accept him, the first of his family to tell him to be proud of who he was. No, he affirmed to himself, he wasn't bending over backwards just to accept and to please. She had a right to happiness, to love and who were they to stand in her way. He gritted his teeth for a moment and kicked Charger to go after several steer that were beginning to break from the rest of the herd.

At the ranch, Victoria sat down to breakfast with Jarrod, Audra and Beth. The table was silent, so quiet in fact that even Silas found it to be worrisome.

"Everything all right this morning, Mrs. Barkley?" The old gentleman's furrowed brow only served to further deepen the set in creases that came with age and past hardships.

Victoria, lost in her reflection of yesterday's events, took a moment to answer. "Oh yes Silas, everything's fine, just a lot on our minds this morning." She eyed her eldest across the length of the table. She was still irritated with Jarrod and Nick this morning, their behavior the evening before had been inexcusable. But of curse, were they to offer an apology, she would gladly accept it. But neither of them had been forthcoming with one. She opted to turn her attentions onto their houseguest.

"How did you sleep last night Beth?"

"Oh jest fine Missus Barkley, that bed is so soft, never done slept on anything like that before. Coulda stayed there all day today." Her smile was warm and engaging, Nick's mother had no difficulty in knowing what her son saw in Beth. She was sweet and unassuming, though she had heard of some of the ugliness that Beth had known; the young woman had not lost her love for life and trusting spirit. Beth seemed to continue to search for the good in all things.

Happy for a new subject matter, Jarrod saw fit to join in the conversation. "You know sometimes I feel like doing that myself. It's much better than spending the entire day in court cross-examining someone."

Audra put her fork down on her plate, letting it chime against the china. "Speaking of which, shouldn't you be leaving soon?"

The abrupt drop in temperature at the table caused an involuntary chill to run up his spine. Oh yes, he was still in a pot of hot water, he realized. To mend a fence he acquiesced to the icy female stares about the room. "Mother. I am sorry if my behavior last night distressed you."

"It did Jarrod, yours and Nick's."

"I apologize dear lady. It's just, well frankly, you are about the last person on this earth that I want to see get hurt and I fear that is what will happen if you continue to spend time with Mr. Tanner."

"Oh Jarrod, I do know that you were trying, in your own misguided way, to protect me. However, as I said last night, I am a grown woman and can make my own choices."

"I know you are."

"Yes she is," Audra blurted out, "And so am I, why I don't think.."

Victoria silenced her daughter by simply raising her hand, a signal that all her children knew well and heeded. "Then allow me to make my own choices and take my own chances."

"But Mother."

"Jarrod, I am well aware of Mr. Tanner's profession, that he has never been married and that he rarely stays in one place for very long. That being well known to me; I still choose to spend some time with him. I enjoy his company, he is an excellent companion and I will continue to enjoy his company till he leaves or we grow tired of one another or whatever happens. There is nothing that you or Nick can do or say to change my mind. Besides," Her angry countenance dissolved and the hint of a smile curled her lips, "Do you really think that you got the famous Barkley stubborn streak from your father's side of the family?"

Jarrod raised his coffee cup to her in a toast. "Well said, dear lady and I hope that you will accept your son's most humble apologies." He rose from the table and walked to her end, leaning over he placed a sweet kiss on her cheek.

"Apology accepted. Now, I do believe that Audra was right, you do need to get going or you are going to be late for court."

"You are quite right." Jarrod started towards the end of the table to grab a last sip of coffee.

Audra jumped up as he was leaving and caught him in a hug. "Bye Jarrod. Thank you." She kissed his cheek and her brother smiled.

"Enjoy your day, ladies." He bowed gallantly and was off to the Stockton Courthouse.

"Oh Beth, now that we are finally rid of the men, we can set about doing the more important work!" Audra gushed at her new friend.

"Important work? Whatcha talkin' bout Audra?"

"Why getting ready for the dance, silly!" Audra linked her arm in Beth's and led her from the dining room. "Why we have to decide what to wear, how we're going to do our hair and…"

Beth paused and shook her head, "I don't know that I'm even going to the dance."

"What? Of course you are."

"Don't know Audra, I sure was powerful mad at your brother last night and seems ta me, Nick owes an apology to everyone."

"Well that, I'm sure will be taken care of soon enough."

"How ya figure that?" Beth queried, doe-eyed.

"Because, he is out with Heath today and I'm sure that Heath will get all of this straightened out. You just watch, Nick will come home all fumbling for words, playing with the brim of his hat."

"So ya think he'll say he's sorry?"

"Of course I do. And you are going to have a wonderful time at the dance this evening, trust me, I know my brothers."

"Awright Audra, I trust ya. But we've got another problem."

"Oh dear, what now?"

"I don't have a thing ta wear! They done ruined all my dresses at my home. Not that I had many but I got none now!"

Audra laughed and smiled, "That is not a problem Beth, that's a challenge! Come on upstairs with me, we'll have you in a new ensemble in no time."

Beth puzzled over her words for a moment, "A new what?"

"A new ensemble, a new outfit! Oh Beth, we're going to have so much fun today!" Taking her by the arm again, Audra led the way up the grand staircase and to her own bedroom.

Once inside, Beth's mouth gaped open in shock. Never in her life had she seen so many clothes belonging to only one person. She couldn't even begin to fathom the number of dresses that Audra owned and she was utterly spellbound. It was though Beth had entered the finest of dress shops, one that she would never dare to enter on her own, fearing the looks of disdain she would most likely receive from other patrons and sellers.

"Why Beth, what's the matter?"

"Nutting. Just never seen so many pretty dresses before." Hard working calloused fingers tentatively touched the fine woven fabric and hand-tatted lace of one of the garments. Beth jumped from her skin when Audra spoke to her again, fearful of being scolded for laying a hand on one of her dresses.

"Oh Beth, don't you worry now. We're going to find just the perfect one for you. It's such a good thing that you and I are so close in height and build. Otherwise, we might have some difficulty." Audra randomly pulled an armful of dresses from one of her armoires and tossed them onto her lacy bedcovering. "Let's start by looking at these first."

Heath dismounted from Charger and pulled the canteen off from around the saddle horn. He took a long drink of the cool water, closing his eyes as he relished the liquid soothing his parched mouth and throat. His eyes went up at the sight of Nick riding towards him. The metal cap was tightly screwed back on and slung around the saddle horn.

With a hefty yank, Nick pulled back on the reins and brought Coco to a halt next to Charger. He pulled his hat off and wiped his cuff against his brow. "Sure turned into a scorcher today!" He took a swig from his canteen and got down from his horse with a loud grunt. No acknowledgment was received and he raised an eyebrow at Heath. "Still not talking?"

"No, but I'm willing to listen."

"Okay, just listen then." He crossed his arms and looked down at the ground, uncomfortably. "Look I been doing a lot of thinking. Got no sleep at all last night. I umm..well maybe I was wrong yesterday."

"Maybe?"

"I thought you were just gonna listen." Nick growled.

"Sorry." Heath bit back a grin that threatened to explode across his mouth.

"Alright then, I wasn't exactly behaving like I shoulda last night." Large fingers tugged his own earlobe, a sure sign to Heath of Nick's repentance, he'd seen it a time or two before. "It's just that well, guess I wanna protect mother is all, don't want her to get hurt!"

"Nick, none of us wanna see mother get hurt. But ya gotta see that she's a grown woman, a smart grown woman."

"I know that!" He quickly retorted.

"We gotta let her make her own choices. She deserves to be happy, you and I both agree on that. So, let her make this choice and take a chance. Let her be happy and if she does get hurt, we're still gonna be there for her."

"Yeah, we will Heath. But if she gets hurt, I'm gonna make Tanner regret that he was ever born!"

Heath smirked at his brother, "And I'll be right there with ya, so he can doubly regret it!" Heath put a hand on Nick's shoulder, "But ya know ya still gotta tell two ladies you're sorry!"

"Yeah, mother's pretty sore at me. Who else do I gotta apologize to and don't tell me I gotta tell Audra I'm sorry!"

"Iffen ya wanna smooth things over with Beth and take her to that dance tonight; think ya better apologize to her too."

"Yeah…yeah I think you're right. And I do wanna take her to the dance, she sure deserves it. Beth's a sweet thing and mighty easy on the eyes, dontcha think?"

"Yep, sure is. Think ya done good this time big brother!"

"Yep, I think you're right. Ya know as a matter of fact, think I'll head back to the ranch now and have a talk with mother and Beth. Maybe by this evening I'll be back in Beth's good graces again." Nick gave Coco a quick spur and headed home, he only hoped that his portion of crow he'd face at home, wouldn't be too difficult to swallow.

From their vantage point, the two men could make out the grand mansion in the distance. They silently watched the tall cowboy riding back towards the mansion. "That was him, the one that came to the house with Beth yesterday." The older of them said. He pulled his dirty hat back on his hat and scratched the three-day beard growth on his chin.

"Yep, sure was. So what we gonna do now, Walt?"

"Wait for the right time. That Beth is surely moving up in the world, ain't she? And I just bet that she don't want anything to happen to that rich cowboy of hers."

"Nope, betcha she don't want that at all."

"So we wait for the right time and place, then maybe with a little help from that cowboy, she'll tell us just where to find the money."

Ciego took Coco's reins while his boss dismounted. "Good day today Mr. Nick?"

Still lost in his thoughts over the two men he had seen, Nick hadn't heard Ciego's question.

"Boss?"

"Huh? Oh yeah, good day, fine day."

"You be getting ready for the dance now, si?"

"Si, Ciego." He replied without so much as a grin. Nick remained deep in thought while he walked across the yard to the front door. First things first, he told himself, there were apologies to be made. Then, he was in need of a bath after a day in the sun and in the saddle. This was one of those rare times, he was actually looking forward to putting on a tie. It meant that he'd be taking one pretty and sweet lady to the dance. A familiar warmth seeped under his skin as he thought about holding her close in his arms. 'She sure has a figure, not some bony girl that's hard to hold. Nope, softness and curves, just like a woman should be.' His head shook away the thoughts, 'have to eat some crow first.'

Their conversation ceased when she heard the door open then slam shut and she put a finger to her lips, silencing Beth. On tiptoe, Audra pranced into the hallway and hid herself behind the thick velvet curtain. She was behaving like a bad, nosy little girl and her lips curled up in a slightly wicked grin.

Her elder brother hollered out loudly for their mother and she watched her mother walk silently to the entryway, all the while studying her son's face. She patted herself on the back, it was exactly as she told Beth it would be and she couldn't wait to show Beth just how well she knew her brother's habits and mannerisms. After having heard all that she needed to, ever so quietly, she stepped back to her room and took Beth's arm. She was led out behind the curtain where they could both get a bird's eye view of the goings on below.

The brim of his hat was being crumpled up and turned by large, callused hands. Nick dared not look up; his mother's gaze would certainly pierce his heart if he did. "I umm, well I just wanted to tell ya mother, that I'm sorry about last night. I don't mean to say that I'm gonna stop worrying about you though. But I guess I didn't handle the whole thing very well."

"Nick.."

"Just lemme finish what I need to say, please." She nodded and he noted that the warmth had returned to her eyes. "Sometimes I guess I just forget that you are so much more than just my mother. And well, Heath and Beth too, they reminded me what a true lady you really are and that any man would be darn lucky to have you in his company."

Victoria smiled up at him and put a soft hand to his bristly cheek. "Oh Nick, thank you. I know that the whole idea is not easy for you to swallow. And you're still allowed to worry about me you know. In fact, I think I would be more than a little hurt if you didn't worry. I do promise thought that I'll be careful with my heart. Alright?"

He heaved a heavy sigh, tossing off the burden that had weighed him down, "Thank you mother and I am sorry."

"I know, it's over now. Why don't you go upstairs and talk to Beth. She's in Audra's room. Nick, she really is a lovely young woman."

"Yeah, you're right about that." Nick planted a brief buss on his mother's cheek and turned to the stairs, mounting them in two's. He stopped at the top when she called out to him.

"Nick, a bath before the dance is part of your plan, isn't it?"

"Yes ma'am." He grinned. "And a shave."

Back in the safety of her room, Audra grinned triumphantly. "You see? Exactly what I said he would do. I knew Heath would straighten him out! I swear you can't have one of them without the other, Heath and Nick seem to balance each other out."

Three loud raps on the door and Audra called out innocently, "Who is it?"

"You know exactly who it is!" Nick's stance on the other side of the door, surprised his sister when she opened it. His arms were folded tightly against his chest and his hazel eyes bore down at her accusingly. "Don't look so surprised little sister, you think I didn't see that curtain moving up here? I don't much like being spied on!"

"Why Nick? Whatever do you mean? I'm sure you were just imagining seeing the curtain move, a sure sign of a guilty conscience!" She could be just as ornery as her dark haired brother if need be and she certainly wasn't going to admit to spying on him.

He ignored his sister's feigned innocent and walked into her bedroom, uninvited. "Beth, ya got a minute?" He asked sheepishly, still toying with the brim of his hat.

She didn't want him to see her smile, but it came over her nonetheless. It was a wonderful feeling; whenever he was near her. He made her feel safe and warm and like she was someone really special, they were feelings she wasn't accustomed to. But one thing she did know was that she liked feeling this way. Everything about this cowboy she liked. From the crow's feet that emerged when he smiled to the confident manner in which he carried himself most times. But this wasn't most times and as she gazed upon him standing there, nervously shifting his weight from one leg to the other, she found herself endeared to him now more than ever. "Sure Nick, I got a minute."

Nick found himself locked in her lovely doe eyes, and then he realized that his sister was still standing directly behind him. "Umm, Audra, do ya mind?"

Audra huffed, "Yes I mind, it's my room and I still have plenty of things to do before the dance this evening!"

His eyes rolled and he extended his hand, "How about a walk before dinner?"

Beth slid her hand inside his, "I'd like that."

Once outside, he still kept hold of her hand and took the time to explore the long slender fingers and the calluses on her palm. "Someone so pretty shouldn't have calluses." He said in an unusually low voice.

"Jest shows that I can pull my own weight Nick."

"I know ya can Beth." He turned to face her and took her other hand as well. "Listen, last night…"

"You don' hafta say a thing Nick. I hafta admit, we were behind the curtain. And I heard ya tell your Ma you were sorry."

Nick pulled his hands from hers in mock anger, but the glint in his eyes gave it all away. "Ohhh, so you were spying on me with my baby sister, were ya?! Why I should turn ya over on my knee for that and.."

"I'm sorry, Nick."

"I should give ya a spanking, but I'd much rather do this." With one quick move, his hands grabbed her waist and fiercely pulled her to him. His mouth dropped onto hers hungrily, forcing her lips to part with his tongue and plunging it inside her mouth eagerly. He ached to have more of her, he wanted to taste every inch of her soft body and she felt his need. She rubbed his back hard while his hands roamed beneath her waistline and felt her luscious curves. He moved from her mouth to kiss and nibble on her neck then earlobe, "Does this mean I can still take you to the dance?" He whispered huskily into her ear.

"Yes," She replied, "You can take me to the dance."

A portion of the day had been exhausted in a few friendly hands of poker and another fraction, devoted to shopping. It was something that he loathed to do, however, on this one occasion he found that he didn't mind it nearly as much as he had previously.

So, after Tanner had sent off a telegram, delaying his next safari by another three months; he went to shop for a small bauble. A token of his affection to a lady unlike he'd ever met before. Nothing too extravagant, that would say more than he was ready to at the moment. But, a small gift he thought was definitely in order. He'd bought many extravagant gifts in his days for many reasons. To woo the wives of clients and receive their husband's undying loyalty to his services as the best hunter and tracker. On occasion, baubles were bought to woo lovely young ladies into his bedroom. But this present was for none of those reasons and he found himself wondering when it was last that he had purchased a gift for someone with no underlying motives.

He had finally decided on a simple jade bracelet, no fancy engravings, no gold inlay; a plain bangle. The lady, he felt, truly needed no accoutrements; she stood fine all on her own. There was many a lady of society that resorted to large pieces of sparking gems and gold to show off their wealth and prestige. But Victoria Barkley, Tanner had reasoned, was not one who needed such things. She was a woman who stood well and proud on her own, something that came from within her and she needed no jewelry to show it.

The finest covered carriage available in Stockton was rented and after picking out his black suit and jacquard vest; Tanner rode out to the Barkley ranch. At exactly seven o'clock, he pulled the carriage to a halt in front of the mansion. Silas greeted him at the door; donned in his usual white jacket, black pants and kind smile.

"Evenin' Mr. Tanner."

"Good evening Silas. Fine night tonight! Might Mrs. Barkley be ready?" He asked, handing Silas his hat.

"No sir, not jest yet. Mrs. Barkley should be down in just a moment. All the ladies is upstairs getting ready. The men are in the billiard room right now, why don't you join them while you wait?"

Tanner grinned, feeling a small fluttering in his stomach. "Ah," He said under his breath, "So that's what they are calling the lion's den these days, the billiard room."

"Sorry?"

"Nothing Silas, thank you." Tanner walked slowly into the billiard room where he found Heath and Nick deeply embroiled in a game. Jarrod was standing by the fireplace, watching with a mild degree of interest.

Looking up from the shot he had just lined up, Heath was the first one to speak to him. "Howdy Mr. Tanner."

"Good evening gentlemen."

"Oh hey there Tanner. Care to join a game after I finish giving Heath a whooping?" Nick forced a grin towards his mother's would be suitor. Despite his apologies being made, something still bothered him about the whole thing.

"I might just do that Nick. So, how are you feeling now? Back to your old self?" Tanner asked as he accepted an offered brandy and cigar from Jarrod.

"Yep, fit as a fiddle!"

After savoring a sip of the fine quality liquor, Tanner pointed his cigar at Nick. "I would guess that a certain lovely young lady might have had a thing or two to do with your miraculous recovery."

"Well now, you might just be right about that!" Nick grinned slyly.

Tanner felt more uncomfortable in the billiard room than he had at dinner the evening before. It didn't feel right with them, he could sense something was amiss. Her three sons were being just a little too nice and the hair on the back of his neck bristled at the thought.

"And who is winning the game?"

Tanner turned to see a vision. Victoria swept into the room and he could see nothing else any longer. She was stunning in a dark gray gown with a high lace neckline and a bodice that was trimmed in a deep violet that set off her hypnotic eyes. Edward held out his hand and she accepted it. He leaned down and placed a small kiss on her soft hand. "Victoria, you look ravishing this evening, simply a vision."

"Edward, such flattery!" She laughed, not knowing whether or not to fully believe his words.

"It's not just flattery, I assure you that it's very sincere."

"Why thank you." Victoria turned her attentions to her sons. "Audra and Beth will be down in just a moment."

"Huh? Oh okay thanks mother." Nick replied absent-mindedly, too focused on the staring that was going on between his mother and Mr. Tanner. He wasn't the only one that noticed.

Without a word, Heath was quietly studying the interactions between the two of them, watching with trepidation and wondering if he'd done the right thing by making Nick apologize. He still had mixed feelings about mother's relationship with Tanner, but it was something Heath was just not ready to discuss, not yet.

Heath put the eight ball in the left corner pocket and ended the game, winning by several balls, as was the norm in his games against Nick. He took Nick's stick as his brother uttered a few incoherent words under his breath and put them both on the cue rack. He turned back around to hear Jarrod voicing his approval to the two young ladies that entered the room.

"My now, I do believe that the loveliest ladies in all of Stockton are right here in this very room!" Jarrod told them with a twinkle in his cerulean eyes.

Beth felt her cheeks blush a fierce pink and lowered her head, embarrassed by her own reaction. Audra took her Pappy's arm and allowed him to escort her into the room, which left Beth standing by herself. But the situation was quickly remedied.

Nick, temporarily lost in staring wide-eyed at Beth, allowed Tanner to get the upper hand.

"My dearest Beth, aren't you quite lovely this evening." Tanner gushed at her as he approached and took her arm in his.

"Why thank ya Mr. Tanner. Its one of Audra's dresses. It look okay?"

"Far better than okay my dear." Tanner escorted her across the room to Nick, who still remained dumbfounded.

Audra had done very well for the both of them. While Audra had chosen an ivory gown trimmed in silk roses that set off her slightly tanned skin. She had assisted Beth in picking out a light blue gown, off the shoulders with a princess waistline and lacing around the skirt. It made Beth's blue doe eyes stand out all the more and her pale blond hair was done up in ringlets and a small blue silk ribbon.

Nick still had yet to speak a word and Beth felt the growing urge to run back up to Audra's room and stay there for the rest of the evening. She smoothed the skirt and touched her hair, quite nervously. But the dark haired man in front of her stopped her flight from the room. She had seen Nick shirtless when she had cared for him, dirty and sweaty, dressed in the normal wear for working on a ranch; but she had never seen him in a suit before. He very nearly took her breath away. The dark navy suit and tie with a white shirt was so striking to her against his lean body and tanned skin. It was just the look of him and the scent of soap and a little bit of a woodsy scent that kept her utterly entranced.

"Beth, you look…you're beautiful." He said, forgetting the rest of his family as they stood around them.

"Ya really think so Nick?" She asked hopefully.

"No doubt about it, the prettiest girl at the dance tonight is gonna be on my arm!"

Audra smiled from ear to ear, feeling that she was one hundred percent responsible for Beth's transformation. "I picked out that dress for her, myself!" She informed everyone.

Nick and Beth didn't hear a word that she said. So Jarrod soothed his baby sister's ego. "And you did an excellent job with your selection, honey." Jarrod looked around the room for a moment. "Seeing that we are all together, shall we go?"

Three carriages were used and they rode in line together to the dance. While Heath took the reins of one, with his sister and Jarrod; Nick and Beth rode in the second and in the third was Edward Tanner and Victoria. They rode towards the dance and to what all hoped would be a most memorable evening.

The heady scent of new flowers and tree blossoms filled the air as the last streaks of oranges and pinks faded from the sky. The three carriages arrived in tandem, near the center of town. The center of town was decked out in all it's finest, the spring festival continued to grow and become more lavish as the valley grew in its populace. The lanterns that lined the center of town and the street leading up to it, spewed thin lines of dark smoke guided by the light easterly breeze that would help to cool the revelers throughout the evening. Work would not be accomplished in any part of the valley, that night; there were few people that weren't at the dance. Owners, ranch hands, travelers and two men waiting to find a certain young woman alone, were in attendance.

The festivities were well underway as Edward deftly guided Victoria through a small crowd of people. Both of them were keenly aware of the eyes that followed them and the chorus of ladies that were tittering over the couple. The attention caused Victoria to smile ever so slightly; but not unnoticed by Mr. Tanner. She could think of a few women who probably considered themselves far more deserving of Mr. Tanner's affections and a few who no doubt thought that it was shameful for a woman of her age to be courting a gentleman publicly.

Edward looked at her with a bemused grin; she appeared to be actually enjoying all of the tongue wagging going on about them. With a soft chuckle to himself, he took her arm and escorted her out to the center of the dance area. His index finger slipped underneath her chin and she shifted her gaze up to his warm face. "You know Victoria, I do believe that I've discovered a new and slightly wicked side to you!"

"Oh? And what makes you say that?" She asked innocently.

You, my dear, are actually enjoying the wide eyes and gaping mouths that seem to be following us this evening. Aren't you?" He couldn't stop looking at her and anyone else be damned that might have a problem with it.

"Perhaps, just a little. They are jealous, that's all. Oh I suppose I must admit that it's rather nice to have them notice me like that instead of just the mother of the Barkley men or Audra's mother. That must sound terrible to you."

He shook his head and put his palm on her cheek, "Not terrible, not at all. Maybe it's time that someone recognized what an incredible woman you are in your own right."

She leaned her face into his palm, no longer seeing the crowd around them. "Is that how you see me?"

"Yes, you are an incredible woman, not like anyone I've met before." Edward pulled her closer while they continued their dance.

Nick had barely gotten Beth down from the carriage when she was shanghaied from his arms buy his little sister. He began to voice his objections, but Audra was already pulling Beth through the middle of the crowd. She fully intended to introduce her new friend to her girlfriends in Stockton and perhaps even, a few young eligible men. It's not that she didn't like her brothers, she loved them dearly, but she had an urge to show Beth that there were other options out there.

Jarrod saw his younger brother huff and start walking by himself towards the party. He caught up with him and began walking alongside, trying to match Nick's long quick strides. "So brother Nick, I take it that you are back in everyone's good graces?"

"Yep, you too?" He asked with a sideways glance.

"It appears that way, at least for now. You, ummm, still have some misgivings about mother's relationship with Mr. Tanner?"

Nick stopped and turned to Jarrod with an exhale of resignation. "I don't know Pappy." He shifted his weight from one leg to the other, uncomfortably and folded his arms. "I don't know. Maybe Heath was right, maybe I just need to back off. But at the same time, Tanner strikes me as the love them and leave them kind of man. Lots of broken hearts in his path."

"And you don't want mother's heart to be one of them."

"Right. So, whadda we do Jarrod?"

"I wish I had a great answer." He put his hand on his brother's shoulder. "Be there, keep our eyes and ears open, watch for any warning signs. I don't know."

"Just be there for her and give her our love."

Jarrod nodded. "Nick, right now I think it's about all we can do."

"But like I told Heath, if he hurts her, then he's gonna learn first hand about my temper!" Nick pointed a finger at his brother.

Jarrod nodded with a grin then took a look around but didn't see the lovely young woman that his brother was spending his time with. "Speaking of relationships, where did Beth run off to?"

"Audra grabbed her as soon as we got here."

"Ah, showing off her newest friend to the town. I think you should go rescue her, little brother, before our dear sister has her entire dance card filled up for the evening."

"Yeah, s'pose you're right about that."

"Oh there's Audra over there talking to the Matt and Kyle." Jarrod pointed Audra out to Nick and his sister was flirting unabashedly with both the young men. It was quite clear that she had the two of them wrapped around her little finger. Jarrod craned his neck, but didn't see Beth anywhere nearby. "I don't see Beth."

"Neither do I." Nick agreed, he felt the hair on the back of his neck bristle and an uneasy feeling come over him. He quickly scanned the crowd but couldn't find her.

Jarrod was developing the same feeling as his brother. Ever since Nick had brought Beth back to the ranch, after her home had been ransacked, he'd had two thoughts burned into his mind. Who and why? It seemed obvious that whoever had done it were looking for something; but what and had they found what they were looking for? He knew the same things were running through his brother's mind and the sheriff's. But, the only ones who seemed to know the answers were whoever had ruined her house and Giles, who was dead and buried.

Nick took long quick strides through the throng and towards his sister; Jarrod had to move quickly to keep up with his long-legged brother. Nick reached his baby sister and the two men trying to gain her attentions, stepped back nervously. Audra swung around to face her two brothers, mildly irritated that her brothers had interrupted her yet again.

"Audra, where is Beth?"

"How should I know Nick, I was just about to introduce her and she was gone." Audra grumbled. She turned back to her suitors.

Nick took hold of her arm and turned her back around. "Audra! When did you see Beth?"

"Nick, oww, I just told you! She was here a minute ago and then just disappeared. She's probably getting punch or something!"

His eyes shot across the street to where the beverage tables were. But Beth was nowhere around the tables and he couldn't find her.

"Nick, over there!" Jarrod said, his voice tinged with an audible relief.

He brushed past the people in front of them and met them halfway.

"Lord Nick, you look like you've seen a ghost! Ya okay?" Heath asked.

"Yeah fine, I just couldn't see where you'd gone off to Beth!" He heaved a sigh of relief.

"Oh Nick, I'm sorry. Just that, I guess Audra's friend really wasn't my type and Heath here rescued me with a dance!" She smirked at Nick's fair-haired brother standing next to her.

"Beth here looked like she was dying of boredom, so I thought a little dance until you showed up, would liven her back up again." Heath cast a small lopsided grin towards his two brothers, feeling himself a bit of a hero. "By the way, where did you both get off to? Beth and I took a look around but didn't see ya." Heath had a feeling that his two brothers had been talking and an inkling just what the two were discussing while he wasn't around.

"Oh we were just jawing about a few things. Ya had me worried there for a moment."

"I am sorry Nick, really. Did ya see Misser Tanner and your ma out dancing? They haven't left the floor since we got here. I didn't know your ma was such a good dancer!"

The three brothers all set their eyes upon the dance floor and to their mother dancing with the bearded Mr. Tanner. She danced closely with her partner, their gazes seemingly locked in one another's. They whispered words to each other and occasionally, she giggled softly. The two dark-haired brothers were not prepared for the sight. What they both saw, shocked them. For out there dancing, for the very first time, they saw a woman and a man with the glow of new love upon them. Not their mother and Mr. Tanner, but a couple delighting in the growing feelings between them. Jarrod and Nick's breath were stolen away by the sudden realization. The eldest son was awash with guilt, he was supposed to be the logical one, the one who always thought things through. He mentally berated himself for never realizing before that she was so much more than just their mother. He had heard the words that she was so much more than that, but never had he truly taken them in; until now.

Nick suddenly found himself with an inexplicable grin on his face. She looked so happy out there and he wanted to see his mother wear that look everyday for the rest of her life. And if Tanner was the one that could keep that look on her face; then by god he wasn't going to get in the way of it.

Beth stepped uneasily towards Nick when she saw the grin; she hoped that he wasn't too angry with her. From what she'd seen of the tall cowboy so far; he was a force to be reckoned with, someone you didn't want to cross. But she had no desire to cross him. Underneath that force was a big heart, one that could be easily shattered; he had this quality that she couldn't quite put her finger on before. But it suddenly came to her as he watched his mother out on the dance floor and his frown had turned into an impish grin.

Innocence, for all his bravado and the cowboy way of life, there was something sweet and innocent about him. Oh, she had little doubt that he was a man, not a boy. He certainly knew how to kiss a woman, how to touch her. But there it was, a certain boyish innocence that she found to be completely irresistible.

Jarrod joined Heath's side. "Come on now little brother." He said, draping an arm on Heath's shoulders, "Let's find out if they spiked that punch yet." The elder led the younger away with a glance backwards to the new couple.

Nick turned to face her with his fists rammed on his hips, pushing his jacket back. "Now, pretty lady, do ya think ya can fit me in on that dance card or did my brother wear ya out!"

With a giggle, "I'm not plum wore out yet Nick, not even a little." Her eyes lit up with her smile and Nick found the bad gut feeling recede to nothingness.

He shook off the last edginess with a hearty laugh and took her hand. He led her to the very center of the dance floor, where the other couples were in the middle of dancing a waltz. "Good, a slow one, exactly what I wanted." One hand moved around her waist to the small of her back, pulling her closer than conventional society allowed. The large left hand took hers and laced his fingers in hers.

"Ya still mad at me?" She looked up uneasily into her dance partner's warm face.

"I wasn't mad at you Beth, just worried."

"You was worried 'bout me?" Beth asked incredulously.

"Of course I was. Whoever ransacked your house is still out there."

She knew she shouldn't be smiling, but she couldn't help herself. Hearing those words made her grin from ear to ear.

Her sudden smile caused him to be more than slightly befuddled. "Beth, that's nothing to smile at honey. We don't know who they are or what they were after!"

"Ya don' understand Nick. Maybe I shouldn't be smiling. But it's just…" She lowered her head, he wouldn't understand and she was embarrassed by her own feelings.

Leaning his head down to look at her face, he asked her in a quiet voice. "What don't I understand?"

"It's just that..just that nobody's ever told me they were worried about me before. Don't think anyone ever worried about me none."

"Of course I was worried, I care about you Beth."

"You do?" She looked up at him with her heart filled with hope. She wanted so much to believe that the kiss they had shared earlier had truly meant something to him. It had meant something to her, it had meant a great deal. She'd been kissed so many times before, whether she wanted those men to kiss her or not, they never seemed to care. Beth had only been fourteen when she went to work in her first saloon, already fully developed, she had no problem getting men to believe that she was older than that. Not that anyone seemed to care how old she was, not with that figure. Her father had never cared much how old she was or even that she was his daughter; ugly as a mud fence he had told her over and over again. But he sure never thought she was ugly when he'd come in her room in the middle of the night. So, at fourteen she had run and wound up in a saloon; she had found out far too young that her figure could get her many things including food on the table. By the time she was seventeen, a drunken saloon owner had used her as a piece of property in a bet and lost. A year later, the man that had won her had lost to Giles and she became his property. She hated Giles and hated her life, she'd try to run away from him before but he had found her and she had spent a week tied in the closet, with barely enough food and water to survive. Then Edward Tanner had shown up with the injured Nick Barkley and for the very first time, since she was a small girl, Beth knew hope.

"Yes I do care for you." Nick leaned in close to her ear, taking a small quick nibble. "I thought I made that clear earlier."

Beth felt her cheeks turn a fierce hot pink. "Yes, I guess you did at that. And I care 'bout you too."

Her head leaned against his chest and his heart rate increased, turning his blood to the boiling point. The eyes, the soft curves against his lean musculature and her scent could drive him to madness, he thought. But with all the ugliness she had seen but only briefly spoken of, Nick used every last ounce of his fortitude to show restraint and take things slower than his libido cared to. He was going to be the utmost of gentlemen with her; even if it killed him.

Jarrod and Heath soon joined them out on the dance floor. Nick was more than a little surprised to see Heath's dance partner. He'd heard she was back in town after having been gone for three years and during that time; Nick didn't fail to notice that she had become quite the young woman. He watched Heath from the corner of his eye, as his dance partner caused him to laugh out loud.

"Whatcha looking at Nick?" Beth asked.

"Oh, Heath and the young lady he's dancing with?"

"Ya know her?"

Nick nodded, "Yep, sure do, she was a guest of ours for Christmas a few years back. Her names Maybelle."

"Maybelle. That's kinda pretty name. Was she a friend of yours?"

"What? Oh no, I umm guess you can say she was an acquaintance of Jarrod's."

"Jarrod, really? Hmmm, she looks more like she's interested in Heath now."

"Oh it wasn't like that. Well, it's a long story actually. Remind me to tell you about it sometime."

"I'll remind you." She smiled up at him.

The third dance ended and Nick steered Beth from the dance floor and over to the beverages. By the time they arrived at the punch bowl, it had been well spiked. Beth flinched as she took a drink; it had been some time since she had tasted hard liquor. Nick drank down his cup without a breath or grimace.

"Not bad!" He judged. He poured the both of them another cup, just as Heath came alongside and pulled the cup from his hands. "Hey!"

"Thanks big brother, Maybelle could use a drink, certainly some hard work dancing!"

"Hello Mr. Barkley." Maybelle was more than a little uncomfortable with this meeting; of all the Barkleys, it had seemed that Nick had disliked her the most. But she was in for a pleasant surprise.

Nick beamed and boomed, "Well hello there Maybelle! Certainly good to see ya! You sure grown up since the last time I saw ya!"

"Why thank you!" She stammered out.

"Oh Maybelle, I want ya to meet Beth. Beth, Maybelle."

"Hello Maybelle, nice to meet ya!"

"You too." The young women smiled at one another then looked back towards their escorts.

"Maybelle just got back in town last week." Heath offered.

"And your brother was kind enough to dance with me, when no one else seemed to want to even talk to me."

"Boy Heath, you sure do know how to rescue damsels in distress, dontcha?!" Nick teased, much to Heath's chagrin.

"Walt, do ya think she even knows where Giles hid it?"

"For her sake, she better know. 'Sides, you see that man she's all hanging onto?"

"Yeah?"

"Name's Nick Barkley. You saw the size of the ranch he lives on. If she can't help us, I'm thinking that his family would sure pay a lot of money to get him back. Maybe even more money than what Giles owed us."

"Ya think so?"

"Oh yeah, one way or the other, them two is gonna make us rich!"

"My goodness, Maybelle!" Victoria exclaimed, coming up from behind Heath and Maybelle with Edward at her side. She wrapped her arms around the young woman and hugged her with the deepest sincerity. "You look wonderful! I'm so happy to see you again."

"Mrs. Barkley, so nice to see you! Thank you so much for your letters, they really did help especially when I was feeling kinda lonely. It was nice to know that someone was thinking of me." Over the last three years, Maybelle had been living in a small town just outside of Phoenix where she was the sole schoolteacher. She had wanted to make a name for herself somewhere, a good and solid name that wouldn't be looked upon with disdain. Thanks to the excellent reference letter she had carried with her from Victoria Barkley and also, Stockton's circuit court judge, she had gotten a teaching position. It was something that she was duly proud of. She was Miss Williams, not the outlaw's girlfriend or witness or any such thing. But Miss Williams, the pretty schoolteacher. When she had received the letter from Mrs. Barkley offering the position, she hemmed and hawed for quite awhile. She wondered how many arms had to be twisted by Mrs. Barkley and Jarrod in order for the position to be offered. But she had finally come to the conclusion that she missed California and wanted to return to the valley. Maybelle was prepared to show the entire valley what a lady she had become and who she really was deep inside.

"Well you are back home where you belong. I knew you wouldn't be able to turn down that teaching position!" Victoria felt Edward slip his hand beneath her elbow. "Oh Maybelle, I'm sorry where are my manners? This is Edward Tanner, Edward this is Maybelle Williams, a dear and true friend of the family."

With a slight gallant bow, Edward took Maybelle's hand and gave it a swift kiss. To which she replied with red cheeks and a sweet sigh. "It is a pleasure Miss Maybelle Williams, a true pleasure."

An arm went about Victoria's waist, "If you'll excuse us, please, I will let you get back to enjoying your evening. Nick, Heath, I'll see the both of you and Beth later."

"Awright Mother," Heath replied.

"See ya later," Nick added in.

"Good evening Mrs. Barkley and Mr. Tanner, see you soon."

Heath's sapphire eyes looked down at Maybelle and smiled, he put a hand on the small of her waist. "Can I interest you in another dance?" He asked.

"I'd be honored, Heath." She allowed him to lead her back onto the dance floor and she mused at the events that had brought them together at the dance.

She had been merciless with him at their first meeting three years ago; endlessly chiding him about his abilities to tame a wild horse. Cruel and unkind were the words that came to her mind; but they were feelings that had come to the surface whenever she was frightened. Though she was loath to admit it; being at the Barkley house terrified her. She thought on those days and how she had not taken Heath's stern advice. Her failure to take his advice had almost cost his sister's life and Maybelle was the sole responsible party for Audra's injuries.

When she had run into Heath a few days ago, in the General Store, her actions still weighed heavily upon her mind. And Maybelle, after a few words of social niceties had offered her sincere apologies for her behavior that day. Heath had been momentarily stunned by her sudden and heartfelt apology; but he couldn't help but feel that it took a certain amount of guts to admit that she had been wrong that day. He had accepted her apology with an offer of lunch and as he spent their time together, listening and watching, he began to admire her for the way Maybelle had turned her life around. By the end of the meal, the first sparks of attraction had begun to take hold and he surprised himself by how elated he felt when she told him that she'd be staying in Stockton as the new teacher. Heath had walked her back to the boarding house where she was staying and extended an invitation to accompany him to the dance; she accepted with the most endearing smile he'd ever seen.

"You know Heath, if I'd known back then that you were so light on your feet, I might've taken an interest in you a long time ago."

He grinned sheepishly, remembering just what she was like back then. But that was a Maybelle that no longer existed and this young woman in his arms was an entirely different story. "You're pretty light on your feet yourself Maybelle. Make that plain light, I'd forgotten how tiny you really are." He chuckled, Maybelle came up to mid chest on him and when he held her to dance he worried about her tiny frame that seemed so fragile to him.

Heath pulled her just slightly closer and the thick walls around her heart began to chip and crumble.

Edward turned back to look just briefly at the crowd they had left behind them. "I thought that it would be nice to break away from that throng. I hope that you don't mind, Victoria."

"I don't mind in the slightest." Victoria replied. She was rather thrilled by the idea of stealing a moment alone with Edward.

"You know, I understand that the hotel's restaurant is staying open late this evening for people that need a respite from all that joyful noise. Perhaps, I could interest you in a cup of coffee and dessert?"

"That sounds like a marvelous idea, lead the way!"

He led her towards the restaurant and as they stepped off the sidewalk between two building, Edward stopped. He didn't speak a word, but stepped in front of her and slid his arms around her back. The world around her dissolved in his kiss and she knew she was falling in love. A feeling that she never thought she would own in her lifetime again; a part of her that she had believed to have died with Tom was still alive and breathing. Her heart rejoiced for the first time in so many years.

Edward ended their kiss somewhat abruptly. He was feeling the same was as Victoria; but he suddenly felt uncomfortable. He was afraid and he hated that feeling. A mountain lion didn't scare him; a big game hunt didn't either, but Victoria Barkley? He took her hand and began walking again towards the restaurant. She felt the change, but didn't know the reason behind it.

"Is anything wrong?"

"No, no, I just realized how hungry I was. Didn't have any dinner this evening." He lied.

They were seated immediately in the sparsely filled restaurant and Edward took the liberty of ordering them both peach pie and coffee. Victoria took a small forkful of the pie into her mouth and noticed the crust wasn't very good. Edward looked at her expression and saw that she was deep in thought.

"Penny for your thoughts, Victoria?" He asked, but received no response. "Victoria?"

Her eyes brightened and the fork dropped on her plate with a loud clink. "That's it! Why didn't I think of it before?"

"Think of what?" His fear now forgotten, the smile and wide eyes of Victoria bemused him.

"Beth! She wanted to bake for a living. I could be her silent partner, help her to open a small bakeshop with a café in the front. A few tables indoor and outdoors. She could serve different beverages and all of her baked goods. I could help her with getting started; help her replace some of the things that were destroyed. Oh and I know just the place, there was a Millinery at the edge of town that closed last month. No one's rented the space yet, it would be a perfect spot for her to start out!"

Edward took her hand and squeezed it tightly, "You truly are something Victoria!" He meant it; the brief wave of fear at the prospect of falling truly in love had thankfully disappeared.

Nick pulled her close as the musicians ended their last song. Beth held tightly onto him, not wanting the evening or the magic she felt, to ever end. The crowd was mostly dispersed and they were the only ones still standing on the dance floor. Nick regretfully led her from the dance floor. The lamps and lanterns slowly began to fade out as they spent their last drops of fuel. Nick could find none of his family as he escorted Beth to his carriage and helped her inside. He was glad he didn't see anyone, he wouldn't need an excuse for not taking her straight back to the ranch. He had a place he wanted to show her first before they went home, with the clear evening sky, Nick thought it would be quite the spot for a moment alone with her.

"Why we stopping Nick?" She asked as he reached the very place he wanted to share with her.

"Just thought maybe you might like this place, much as I do." He jumped down from the carriage and went to the other side, helping her down with his hands about her waist. He led her through a cluster of tall pines and stopped.

A small lake shimmered in the moonlight, surrounded by majestic pines that towered far into the sky. The lake was so still and quiet that it appeared to be a mirror, casting a perfect reflection. She stood in awe for a moment, admiring the sight.

"Oh Nick, it is beautiful here."

"This is one of my favorite places. Found it when I was a boy and I used to come out here and slay dragons with my mighty sword."

Beth chuckled slightly, she could easily picture a young Nick playing the knight in shining armor. Come to think of it, she said to herself, he still was the knight in shining armor, after all he had rescued her whether he realized it or not.

He picked Beth up by the waist and sat her down upon a large boulder. He leaned up against it, very close to her. "Later, when I grew up, this place became where I liked to think things out. Helps me get a clear head when I'm here, a real clear head."

"And now?" She whispered, "What are you thinking about?"

He stepped closer to her and stroked her cheek softly. "Thinking about how much I like being with you. I am thinking about how much more time I wanna spend with you."

"You do?"

"Yes Beth, I do." He cupped her face in his hands and drew her to him. His kiss was voracious and charged with emotion. Beth couldn't get enough of him and she pulled herself even closer.

They both became so lost in their kiss that nothing else existed. Nick, normally ever alert, didn't hear the sound of the leaves and branches crackling under footsteps. He didn't hear the sound of the gun being released from its holster. Neither of them heard a thing, until the man cleared his throat. Nick broke from Beth just as the butt of the gun connected with his forehead.

Victoria and Edward were the first to arrive back at the ranch. At her invitation, Edward had followed her inside for a nightcap before he would return to town and the hotel. Two brandies were poured into crystal snifters, but before they took their first sip, he raised his glass to her. "Thank you for an utterly enchanting evening, my dear Victoria."

With a tender smile, she briefly bowed her head. "Thank you for accompanying me. I often attend the socials, but I must admit that its been a very long time since I've danced at one, except of course with one of my sons."

"Now that my sweet is a crime, someone as lovely as yourself should have their dance card completely filled at every such occasion."

"Oh," She chuckled lightly, "I do believe I'm a bit old for keeping a dance card!"

"Nonsense! As a matter of fact, I hope that you will allow me to occasionally fill your dance card, Victoria."

"Be careful Edward, I might just allow you to do that! So, by any chance, does that mean you will be staying in our fair valley for a time?" She asked hopefully, but was careful to shield her emotion from him. Afraid that if she appeared anxious or hopeful; she just might scare him away.

"I will be." Edward put down the brandy snifter and took her small hand in his; he led her to the plush sofa and sat down next to her. "I have no set plans for the next three months. Then, I will be going to Africa on a safari. I have already been paid to lead it and I must admit that it would be nice to see my home there again." Edward clutched both of her hands, "Oh Victoria, it is an amazing place, my house sits just on the edge of the Serengeti Plain. When I rise in the morning, I can step out onto my front porch and see a vast array of the wildlife just beyond the gates. I've watched a herd of wildebeest migrating just past the gates, zebras and gazelles. Have you ever seen a gazelle? They are extraordinary, they appear so delicate and graceful, yet move with such an astonishing speed and agility…"

She drank in every word he uttered, trying to picture in her mind the lands and animals that he described so enthusiastically and so vividly. He told her of the hunts and she watched his eyes grow wide with wonder and excitement. "It all sounds so incredible Edward! Someday, I would love to see it!"

He spoke again without a second thought or misgiving, "Then come with me!"

"What?" Her eyes grew wide as saucers.

"In three months, come with me to Africa. I know that we haven't known each other for all that long. But Victoria, I am falling in love with you. Tell me please, that you will think about it, you don't have to give me your answer now."

Victoria thought for a moment, there was a part of her that wanted to throw her arms around his neck and shout 'yes!' But the side of caution won out and she replied with a nod. "I will think about it, Edward, I promise I will."

He leaned forward and placed a gentle kiss on her soft lips.

The door flew open wide and Audra stomped inside. "Mother! Where were you? I looked around and everyone was gone! I couldn't find you, Nick, Heath or even Jarrod!

"Oh dear, I am so sorry. How did you get home?" Victoria left Edward's side and went to her daughter, putting a comforting arm around her shoulders.

"Carl Werther was kind enough to bring me home. But can you imagine? All he talked about the entire ride was herding sheep? He just bought over a hundred of them and wants to sell the wool! Sheep, I hate sheep!" She pulled away from her mother and trudged up the stairs, slamming her bedroom door behind her.

Victoria hid her amusement behind her hand. "Oh dear, I'm afraid she's going to be upset with all of us for a few days!"

Edward laughed at her exclamation, "She's very young, she'll get over it I'm sure." He patted the sofa cushion. "Now, I do believe I was going to kiss you again if you care to come back over here."

Victoria smiled mischievously and went back to the sofa, sitting down next to him.

Heath walked Maybelle back to the boarding house and aware of the owner peering through the curtain, he gave her a chaste kiss before departing. But not before he had planned his next time with her, a long horseback ride and a picnic the following afternoon. He whistled happily as he walked down the street, barely even noticing Jarrod pulling up in the carriage beside him.

"Howdy Jarrod!" He said after some time of Jarrod riding alongside.

"Howdy yourself Heath!" Jarrod studied the expression on his brother's face. "From the looks of things, I'd say you had an enjoyable evening with Maybelle?"

"Yep, got that right."

"You uhh want to climb on board or do you intend to walk the rest of the way home?"

With a small chuckle, Heath climbed aboard the carriage and leaned back, putting his hands behind his head. He was quite content to allow Jarrod to take the reins for the drive home.

"So Maybelle is going to be the new teacher here. Good for her, I can't tell you how happy I am to see that girl turn her life around."

"She's not just a girl anymore Jarrod or haven't you noticed that she's turned into a young lady?"

"I noticed and I believe you've notice that fact quite a bit, haven't you?"

"Yep, sure have. Not the same girl that stayed with us those few years back."

"No, you're right. She's made a life for herself now, a good one."

"So counselor, no problems with my spending time with her?"

Jarrod flicked the reins and urged the horses home faster, "Nope, not a one."

Heath leaned back in the carriage, allowing his tensed shoulders and neck to relax. He had half expected Jarrod to have something to say about his time with Maybelle; but was pleased as punch to find out he had his older brother's approval.

He had closed his eyes briefly but they suddenly flew open and Heath sat bolt upright. Without knowing why, his eyes searched the tree line to the right of the road home; his stomach was flipping and churning inside. "Jarrod stop." He said urgently.

"What is it?" He pulled the reins back hard and the horse whinnied in dismay.

"Over there, that's the carriage Nick had tonight."

Jarrod smiled warmly, "Ah, so he's taken Beth to show her his favorite spot. Hmmm, things seem to be getting rather serious between those two." Heath jumped down from the carriage. "Heath, what are you doing? Now's not the time to play one of your famous jokes on Nick!"

"Wasn't planning on it."

"Well then, what are you doing?"

"I dunno. Just got this bad feeling is all." Heath looked up at Jarrod, still sitting in the carriage.

"You worry too much little brother." Jarrod teased, his speech slurred just slightly from the spiked punch. "Come on Heath, let them enjoy their moment together.:

Unable to break free from the uneasy feeling that washed over him, Heath stepped away from the carriage. "Just gonna take a quick look. Be back in two shakes."

Rolling his eyes, Jarrod tried the reins in a grand gesture. It was times like these that he occasionally felt like the odd man out. Nick and Heath had formed such an intense bond between the two of them, though Heath was by far the quieter of the two, they were cut from the same cloth and Jarrod knew he didn't share in the bond.

Heath stepped carefully to Nick's carriage, but nothing there appeared to be out of the ordinary. With a measure of hesitation, he walked through the trees towards the lake that his brother loved so much. All the while, wondering if Jarrod was right, he was worrying too much. But that gut instinct, it was something he and Nick had shared since the first month he had moved into the house. The warm glow of the moon made it easier to survey the area. There was no sign of Nick or Beth. "Nick? Beth?" He called out. No response. He looked around again when his eyes fell upon a small luminous object. Pears, several of them were scattered around in a small area of the grass. Hadn't Audra loaned Beth a pearl necklace for the dance. His heart rose to his throat. "Jarrod!"

The fog slowly receded and Nick opened his eyes; an agonizing pain in his head caused even his eyelids to ache.

"Nick? Please, wake up. Please Nick!" Beth's entreaties urged him the rest of the way into consciousness. A meager attempt was made to reach out to her but he found he was foiled by ropes that bound his hands behind his back; he tried to free himself but to no avail. "Beth..wh..what happened?" He groaned out.

Beth, leaning against a crude wall, eased herself closer to him, her hands bound in the same fashion. Ropes were fashioned around their legs as well, both their shoes had been removed and the ropes were roughly tied from knee to ankle.

"Dontcha remember Nick? We was out by that lake then them two men came and one of them hit ya in the head! With his gun."

"That explains a bit why I feel like I've been kicked by a horse. Last thing I remember," he paused in an attempt to gather his thoughts, "we were at the lake and I kissed you. We had ourselves one grand time at the dance, I remember that." Using the wall as support, he up righted himself further, to a sitting position and Beth dropped her head on his shoulder. "Beth, do ya know who they are?"

She shook her head just slightly, "No, can't say that I do. Don't recall either of them."

"How about where we are now? Do ya know that, honey?" He spoke to her in whispered tones.

"No, they blindfolded me Nick, but I do know that we rode for at least a couple of hours. And after awhile the horses were climbing uphill for a long time."

"Uphill." He said thoughtfully. "Close to midnight when we left the dance, then about twenty minutes to the lake, then we rode a couple hours you said. Well, sun should be up not too long from now, that should give us some ideas about where they took us. But if we went uphill a ways, I'm thinking we're to the north or east of Stockton."

"Iffen ya say so Nick, I'm afraid I never been much good at directions." Tears began to fall down her cheeks and dampen Nick's shirt.

"Beth, you okay? Did they hurt you at all?"

"Noooo, jest kinda rough is all, but I's okay." Beth sniffled a little, "What do ya think they want?"

"I dunno honey. I'm sure though that we'll find out soon enough. But I'd bet a lot of money that these are the same men that wrecked your place!" Nick kissed the top of her blonde hair and leaned his head onto hers, waiting for the sunrise to come.

Heath and Jarrod had changed out of their suits and into riding clothes. They both stood in the front entryway, fastening on their gun belts. Edward Tanner was standing with them.

"We'll head to the Sheriff's office first Mother." Jarrod told her.

"Ciego is going to stay here with you and Audra, in case anything like a ransom note or any trouble comes this way."

Victoria nodded numbly at both her sons. At least until they were gone, she would retain an air of strength. It would be after they had ridden through the front gates that the tears would come.

Edward took her petite shoulders in his strong hands and squeezed them slightly. A brief kiss was placed on the center of her forehead, "We'll get word to you as soon as we know anything. We'll bring them home, both of them, safe and sound."

"Thank you," She murmured.

Edward followed the two brothers outside where Ciego had their horses saddled and readied for them. It was a solemn ride into town, no man spoke for the duration. Both brothers were silently glad to have Mr. Tanner alongside them, his profession they felt would no doubt prove useful in locating Nick and Beth. At the sheriff's office they dismounted and went inside, unaware that they had been closely monitored.

Heath and Jarrod took turns filling in the sheriff on what they had found; Nick's carriage and the scattered pearls on the ground. Madden readied himself, retrieving his favorite rifle from the locked gun cabinet and checking the arsenal of bullets.

Sheriff Madden turned his attentions to Mr. Tanner. "Well, I for one am glad that you're going with us. The services of a professional hunter might just come in handy."

"I sincerely hope that you are right, Sheriff. However I must inform you that tracking men is a farm more difficult task than any animal."

"Why's that?" Jarrod asked.

"Animals are somewhat predictable. Whereas man, often is not. An animal moves by instinct and not by emotion. It looks for the sources of food, the water and even moves by climate. A man is not governed by his instincts, especially not a desperate one and is often moved more by their feelings than anything else. That makes man more dangerous than any animal I've ever tracked."

Daybreak began its journey across the horizon. "We best get going," Heath stated, his normally calm voice etched with apprehension.

Everyone turned as the front door flew open.

"Heath? What's happened?" She said worriedly.

"Maybelle, you shouldn't be here."

"I..I couldn't sleep and I was sitting out on the front porch of the boarding house when I saw all of you coming into town. When I saw you go into the sheriff's office, I got worried."

"Go on back home and go to sleep Maybelle." Jarrod admonished.

"I'm not your ward anymore Jarrod. Please don't act like I am." She responded to him tersely, annoyed by the manner in which he spoke to her.

"Look Maybelle, Nick and Beth have disappeared. We think somebody's taken them. You go on back home and I'll let you know as soon as we find out anything."

"Oh the heck with that Heath! I'm gonna go with you!" Maybelle stepped forward and stood toe to toe with Heath, her hands planted firmly on her hips, she gazed up at him.

"Maybelle," Heath said softly, "It could get dangerous and I don't want anything to happen to you."

"I know that Heath." She put a hand to his rough cheek. "But I'm good with a gun, you know that and the fact of the matter is that if you don't let me go with you; I'm going to follow you. You've all done so much for me, I have to help, don’t you see that?"

Heath looked around for some help from Jarrod or Edward, anybody.

"Might be we could use an extra hand." The sheriff told him.

"You see?" Maybelle smiled up at Heath, triumphantly.

With a shake of his head and a sigh, he gave in. "Awright, but you do exactly what I tell you to do Maybelle and you stay close to me."

"I promise I will Heath."

A new ranch hand tracked and located the search party. He arrived bearing a note from the kidnappers, demanding ten thousand dollars each for the safe return of Nick and Beth.

"Where'd you find the note?" Heath demanded.

"Someone slipped by the front gate about a few hours after you left. It was pinned to the fence by a pocket knife." The young wrangler replied. He reached into his shirt pocket and produced the small knife, handing it to the sheriff.

"Nothing special about it, I'm afraid." Fred informed the group as he flipped the knife over in his hands several times.

Tanner held out his hand. "Pretty new, blades still shiny and sharp. But he's right, no special markings." His shoulders dropped thinking of how little they had to go on. The note only had promised more information later on where the money was to be left; the handwriting on it had been plain and unassuming. Though Heath and Tanner had easily picked up a trail from where Nick and Beth had been taken; it had ceased to exist. It had disappeared at the base of a range of hills and; several riding trails led up into the range and across it. It appeared at that point, that the kidnappers had become careful and cautious.

With a glance skywards, Heath added "We're gonna run out of daylight soon."

"I know this area, when we were younger father used to take us to a stream just over that hill. Some great trout fishing up there."

"Alright then, lets make it over there and we'll camp there. But everyone be ready right at sunrise to head out again. We may need to split up to cover these hills. Keep sharp." Heath ordered.

They began the trek up the steep hillside, but Heath hung back slightly and Maybelle stayed with him. Reaching over, he touched her hands. "Ya doing okay?"

"I'm fine Heath, you don't have to worry about me." Maybelle smiled and grasped his hand. "I can hold my own."

"I know ya can, but let me worry about ya just a little okay?"

"Okay, but not too much!" She admonished with a giggle. She kicked her horse and Heath followed, both catching up to the group quickly.

Finally, the door to their room was opened and two men walked inside carrying lanterns. Beth and Nick both squinted at the light that was shone in their eyes. Despite the sun having risen hours earlier; it had not brought much light or warmth to the small room they were held captive in.

"Who are you and what do you want?!" Nick demanded angrily. Hazel eyes shot venom at his captors, waiting for answers.

"Only want one thing. Money." Came the reply. The older man grabbed Beth by her arm and hauled her to her feet. "And you're gonna get it for me!"

"Ransom, so that's it!" Nick shot back.

"Part of it. But your man Giles had money of mine, almost five thousand dollars and I want it back!"

"Five thousand?!" Beth cried out as he twisted her arm. "I never seen that much money before. Never!"

"Sure ya haven't whore!" Beth was shoved back into the wall and the man pressed against her.

Nick did the only thing he could, in his situation and managed to slam his body against him. The man temporarily lost his balance and nearly fell backwards. He responded to Nick's thrust by planting his boot into the prone man's chest.

"Nick!" Beth shouted, "No, leave him alone!" She watched in horror as both men kicked him in the chest, groin and back. He felt nauseous and drew his knees closer to his chest in a feeble effort to protect his body from any more jabs.

"Now you listen to me girlie. My name is Walt and this here's Harley. You best think on our names and where our money is or your new money bags here is gonna find himself in a lot more pain and maybe even, dead."

"But I don't know anything about your money, I told ya that!"

"Well, ya got the rest of today and tonight ta remember. Ya best have an answer in the morning, or ya gonna find out how mad I can get." Walt forced a kiss onto Beth's mouth then released her from his grip, tossing her back down next to Nick. The door was slammed shut and she heard the sound of the lock being turned and an object dragged in front of the door.

"Nick!" Beth cried out, "Are ya okay?"

"Yeah.."Nick lied, pulling himself up again to a seated position. "I'll be fine."

"Nick I swear I don't know what they is talkin' bout! I don' know nothing bout no five thousand dollars. I'm so sorry, I don' …"

"Beth, Beth..honey it's okay I believe you!" He wished for freedom from the ropes that tightly bound him, wanting to wrap his arms around her and give her comfort. He hated the pained expression in her beautiful blue eyes.

Tears left wet trails down her cheeks, "I'm so sorry, Nick. I don' bring nothing but trouble! Ya should be sorry ya ever met me!"

"Oh hey now, what's this talk about?" The normally loud cowboy spoke to her in the most soothing of voices, "I won't have any of that! I am so glad I met you and so glad you're a part of my life. You're an incredibly beautiful and sweet young woman and I'm lucky to know you." With some measure of difficulty, he leaned forward to her and his mouth sought out hers, kissing her deeply. "I'm very lucky. Don't you worry Beth, we're gonna get out of here." Eyes met and locked, "Believe me, we will."

"I believe ya Nick, I surely do!"

Making camp had been a good decision; they would get nowhere searching that night. The moon and stars were almost completely blocked by cloud cover. They had made it up over the hill, but it was dark by the time they drew near to the stream. The bedrolls were set up a short walk from the stream and some food and coffee were pulled from the various saddlebags. Tanner watched as Heath helped Maybelle set her things up and unfold her bedroll. When Heath went to collect some firewood, Tanner joined him.

After a few silent moments, Heath was the first to speak up. "I'm glad ya came with us Tanner, thanks."

"So am I," Edward replied as he grabbed kindling off the ground. "But no thanks are necessary. Listen, Heath I wanted to speak with you about something."

"Its about you and Mother, isn't it?" Heath stopped and faced the older gentleman.

"Yes..it is. It's pretty obvious how your two brothers feel about your Mother and I. But you have been pretty quiet about all of it. Victoria, your mother, told me that you quite often keep your feelings to yourself. I suppose I'm curious to know what you think about the whole thing, I've been watching and listening but you have a very good poker face Heath."

"I'm not a bad player. As for you and mother, I dunno. All I can say is that I'm trying to keep an open mind about all of it."

"Well now," Edward said with a sigh of relief, "I can't ask for anymore than that, now can I?"

"But keep this in mind Tanner, if you ever hurt her, you're gonna find out just how angry I can get. And just how mad my brothers can get. Trust me, don't find that out. Don't hurt her."

Edward shook his head, "Never Heath, I never want to hurt her. She's the most amazing woman that I've ever met! Hurting her is the last thing I want to do."

With his arms filled with firewood, he released one hand and patted Edward's shoulder. "I'm glad to hear that. Now let's get back to the group before we all starve to death. Think I could eat a whole steer by myself right now."

With enough wood to keep them warm throughout the night, Heath and Edward returned to the campsite. But much to Heath's dismay, Maybelle was nowhere to be seen. "Jarrod, where's Maybelle?" He queried anxiously.

"I think she went to the stream, said something about wanting to get off some of the trail dust."

"You go find Maybelle. I'll get the fire and food going." Edward told Heath, "She seems like a fine young woman Heath, but that's just my opinion."

"There's something that we agree on." He smirked back at Tanner. Despite his efforts to remain as unemotional about the whole thing, he had to admit to himself that Tanner was growing on him. "I'll be back in a little bit."

Heath walked the short distance to the stream and found Maybelle a few short yards downstream. Silently, he watched her with admiring eyes. She'd removed her blouse and sat next to the river in a white camisole. She dipped a small rag into the stream and cleaned the dust from her face, then neck and chest. A faint sound caused her to turn and she saw him standing there, just watching.

"Heath Barkley!" She feigned shock and dismay. "What are you, a peeping Tom?"

"No, I umm..well I didn't know where you were and decided I best come find you. I told ya to stay by me!"

"I just wanted to wash some of this dirt off my skin. Honestly, you're getting as bad as Jarrod!" Maybelle folded her arms and harrumphed at him.

"Oh," He chuckled, "Now come on, I'm not THAT bad!"

"Alright, you're not that bad, yet!" She joined in his chuckle. "Are you just gonna stand there gawking?

Heath walked over and sat down beside her. A worried look came over him and Maybelle saw it.

"We're going to find them Heath. I just know we will. Come morning, we'll set out again and we're bound to pick up the trail. We know that they are up here in the hills somewhere, we'll find them."

"A lot of ground to cover in these hills, they could be anywhere." He said in a small voice, worried for his brother and for Beth.

"But with you and Mr. Tanner looking for them, we're gonna find them. I just know it! Have faith, Heath."

"Faith.."

"Yes," She whispered, putting her hand on his unshaven cheek. "Faith Heath. That's what kept me going these past few years."

"I just well Nick's my brother …my friend, you understand? Didn't always know that I had brothers and now that I do.."

"You don't want anything to happen to them. I do understand Heath." Maybelle told him softly, searching his eyes in the dim light. Hesitating at first, she reached out to him and put her arms around his trim waistline.

He sighed heavily and leaned his head onto hers.

"Hey Heath!" Jarrod called out, "foods ready!"

The hard plank floor set an ache in each bone of his damaged body. At least though, there was a soft and comforting place to lay his pounding head. She'd positioned herself, with great difficulty, so Nick could rest his head in her lap and she prayed for him to find a deep sleep; one that would aid him in beginning the healing process to the injuries he had procured at the hands of their assailants.

Eventually, he found the rest that she had prayed for. Beth silently dwelled on the damage that had been done to him. Perhaps a cracked or broken rib? Or had they done damage with their boots to his male area and caused permanent damage? No way for her to know for sure what damage had been done, at least not in their current situation. Beth did not sleep for a moment throughout the night. She listened to the sounds of Nick's breathing, hoping that it would not become labored or fluid.

She also tried to remember. Remember those men and the money that they had spoken of. But she found no memory for her to dredge up. By the time that sunrise came, she was absolutely sure she'd never heard Giles mention their names and she'd certainly never heard nothing about no five thousand dollars!

Warm blue eyes gazed down lovingly at her injured cowboy, seemed that she'd only known him injured most of the time. Surely his body could not stand much more battery from the two men. She remembered them telling her that he would suffer more if she didn't come up with the money that they wanted.

An idea came to her head just as the door was unlocked and their captors came inside. Nick weakly raised his head and forced himself up to stare at them. Without any further time to consider the feasibility of her actions, she felt she had to act. Nick couldn't take many more beatings, he hadn't quite fully recovered from the damage that cat had done to him and now he'd been beaten badly by the men. She had to do something.

"I think I remember now where Giles hid your money." She told them in a small voice.

Both men broke into wide grins and Nick looked over at her, utterly puzzled by her statement.

***

The bedrolls were all packed away on the back of their saddles and the fire had been doused by the time the sun had lit their campsite. Heath gave Maybelle a chaste kiss before giving her a leg up in the saddle.

Tanner sat in his saddle and leaned forward. "Well what do you think, Heath? Should we split up and take the separate trails or stay together and cover them one by one?"

He rubbed the stubble on his face, "I think we can stay together on the main trail for at least another couple of hours and then split up once we reach the higher hills. Frankly, I don't wanna be too hard to find if another note from the kidnappers comes in."

"You're right Heath," Jarrod added in. "We'll stay together until noon time and if we still haven't gotten anywhere, we split up."

Heath and Edward nodded in agreement and they spurred their horses back onto the main trail, deeper into the hills.

Sometime later, Heath checked the sun's position. Without needing any sort of timepiece, he knew that noon was drawing near and they had found nothing that would put them closer to Nick and Beth. Not one clue as to their whereabouts and worse still, no further news from home, no new ransom note. The frustration was building to a peak. "Dammit," He muttered under his breath. "Nothing, we got nothing."

Maybelle reached out and touched his shoulder. "We will Heath. I just know we're gonna find something soon."

"She's right Heath, they are up here somewhere, we're going to find them." His brother tried to comfort both Heath and himself, but the truth was that Jarrod was feeling just as frustrated as his blonde headed brother.

"I just have the worst feeling Jarrod that we are running out of time."

****

The two men had left the room in conference. Beth having insisted that they bring Nick along or she wouldn't show them where the money was had thrown a wrench into their plans. They had planned on getting rid of that pain in the neck cowboy before they set out with her. Once she had led them to the money, they were going to have themselves a little party with the pretty young woman and then she would have to go as well, no witnesses.

"Beth, I thought you said you didn't know anything about that money?" Nick whispered in a demanding tone.

"I don't."

"Then what in the Sam Hill are you doing?"

"Ever hear of a wild goose chase?" Beth smirked ever so slightly.

"What?!" His voice nearly raised, but he managed to quickly tone it back down again. "Are you out of your mind? What happens when they figure out that you have no idea what you're talking about."

"I'm hoping that it doesn’t get to that point. Either we'll get away or your family surely must be looking for ya!"

"Beth this is a very bad idea! You're gonna get yourself killed!"

"Nick I just couldn't let them beat ya again. If they do it again, they might kill ya! At least this ways we'll be out of here and iffen we play our cards right, maybe we can get away from them."

"You did this because you didn't want them to hurt me again?" His depth of caring and admiration for her grew tenfold in that moment; she was risking everything to protect him.

"Yeah, have to, can't let them hurt ya anymore Nick!"

"You are really something else Beth."

The door swung back open, "Awright you is both going! But I warn you girlie, any fool headedness on your part and your boyfriend is gonna die. And you cowboy, you try anything and we're gonna have ourselves a party with her while you watch!"

"You harm even one hair on her head and you're both dead men!" Nick growled at the both of them.

"Oh cowboy, you got us shaking in our boots!" Walt laughed at him.

Beth was put up on a horse behind Walt, her hands remained tied behind her back. Nick was led at gunpoint to a small wagon, his hands were tied to the bench behind him and he was tightly rebound around his bare ankles and feet. The other man climbed into the wagon next to him, keeping one hand on the reins and one hand with a six-shooter trained on Nick.

"Awright girlie, where do we go?" Walt demanded.

"Back down the hills, its in some mine shaft down south of town."

"Which mine?"

"I'm not sure right now.."

Walt's partner jabbed his gun into Nick's bruised side. He grimaced with the pain it caused.

"No, I know 'bout where it is, just gotta go there then I'll 'member which shaft. I'm sure I will."

"Best not be lying girlie."

"I'm not lying." She said with a sideways glance towards Nick. "Just ya get me to the mines and I'll 'member which one it was."

A slow going trek began down a lesser trail in the hills. Walt and his partner spent the majority of the ride bragging about what they would do with the money once they found it. Saloon girls, maybe buy themselves a place down in Mexico. Neither of them spoke on the agreement they had reached when they had left to talk over Beth's demands. Once the money was found, they'd make sure that the Barkley fella got a beating that he would never forget. But he'd stay conscious, at least long enough to see them have their way with his little whore. After that, two quick and painless bullets and they would be on their merry way.

By late afternoon, they were nearly to the bottom of the range of hills and the men decided to stop for a moment to water the horses. It was then that Nick decided it was their best opportunity. He'd spent the ride down working on the ropes that bound his hands and by the time they had stopped at the stream, they were loose enough to pull his hands free. As they turned their backs to fill their canteens, he worked quickly on the bindings about his legs.

Walt stepped near the wagon and Nick jumped, landing on top of him. Despite his injured condition, he was able to easily overtake the older man, pummeling him several times in the head and rendering him unconscious before his partner even realized what was going on. Grabbing one of Walt's guns, the partner made the mistake of drawing his own against Nick and was quickly dropped by a bullet piercing through his abdomen.

"Nick? Nick!" Came the shouts.

"Heath, Jarrod over here!" He yelled back. He'd never been so glad to hear his brothers yelling his name in his life. He lifted Beth off of the horse and untied her hands. "Never heard such a foolish idea in my life, but damn if it didn't work out just the way you thought it would, Beth!"

She threw her now freed hands around Nick's neck and kissed his scruffy cheek. "I knew it would! I love ya Nick!" She hadn't planned on saying the words, not yet anyways but it was too late to take them back now.

The look of surprise on his face made her hold her breath. Until he pulled her tightly into his arms and kissed her, he didn't need words to tell her how much she'd come to mean to him. At that moment, Nick knew for sure that this was the girl he wanted to grow old with, have a family with. He wanted Beth for his wife.

"Boy howdy Nick, sure is good to see you!" Heath patted him firmly on the back to which Nick responded with a low painful groan.

"He needs a doctor, those men beat him pretty bad."

"In need of a doctor again Nick?!" Edward chuckled, "Am I ever going to see you healthy?"

"I sure hope so Tanner." He saw Maybelle and the sheriff ride up behind them. "Maybelle, what are you doing here?"

"I uhh, well I thought maybe I could help." She replied shyly.

"Uh-huh." Nick smirked at his younger brother. "So what took you so long?" He demanded of his Pappy.

The metal caught the sunlight and Beth saw it rising up very slowly. Gun. "Nick!" Beth cried out as Walt lifted his gun and took aim. She had to get to Nick. A shot rang out and the careened through the air until it found a resting place.

The force of the bullet striking a mark, sent both Nick and Beth to the ground, together. Heath unloaded three rapid shots into Walt's body, killing him before he had dropped his gun back down.

"Nick!" Heath shouted at the still couple lying near him.

Jarrod raced to his brother's side. Tanner and the others followed closely behind.

It had only taken one brief shove to push him out of the bullet's path and as his soulful hazel eyes bore into her soul; she knew he was safe. A small smile was all she could manage for him with the pain she was so desperately trying to ignore.

"Oh no! Beth!" Nick cried out, taking her into his arms. He turned her just slightly and looked upon the blood that slowly stained across her dress. A small hole in the back of her dress, just beneath the center of her ribcage marked the bullet's entrance.

"Nick, you're alright!" She whispered.

"Yes honey I'm fine." He stroked her cheek lovingly. "We've got to get to a doctor, Jarrod!" He grabbed his brother's arm. "Help me get her into the wagon!" With those words, he lifted Beth into his arms and waited impatiently for his brothers and Tanner to line the back with blankets from their bedrolls. "You're gonna be okay Beth. You hear me?! You're gonna be okay! We're gonna take you to the doctors now and he'll fix you all up good as new."

Heath and Jarrod looked at one another and Heath shook his head slightly. He looked to Maybelle as she covered her mouth to keep herself from crying. Reaching over the side of the wagon, Tanner stroked Beth's blonde hair.

Nick started to leave her to take the reins of the wagon, but she clutched his arm. "Stay with me Nick. Please? I'm scared."

Heath patted his brother's shoulder. "You stay back here, I'll drive."

"Thanks Heath."

The riders and wagon began the slow trek back down the hills and towards town. Tanner broke from the group to ride back to the ranch and inform Victoria of what had happened.

Nick gingerly carried Beth in his arms into Dr. Merrar's office. Her skin had grown pale and cool to the touch. She had been in and out of consciousness on the ride to town. Dr. Merrar had ushered them quickly back into an exam room.

"It's gonna be okay Beth, I love you." He kissed her cool lips before Dr. Merrar ushered him outside the room. Then began the worst part of all, waiting. Heath and Jarrod told him how glad they were to see him but he didn't hear a single word of what they said. The bullet was meant for him and he knew it. She'd pushed him out of the way and now she was lying in the exam room with a bullet hole. Beth had to make it, he was going to marry her and spend the rest of his life with her. She HAD to make it.

The kindly doctor had only made one very brief appearance in the first five hours that they anxiously waited for word on Beth's condition. Dr. Merrar came out after the first hour to tell them all that he would have to operate; the bullet was in a most precarious position. He advised everyone that now would be the time to pray. He went back into the exam room and the door shut behind him.

"Precarious?! What in the Sam Hill does he mean by precarious?" Nick demanded in a loud voice. The rim of his hat was being mercilessly destroyed in his large hands. He paced around the room like a caged tiger; ready to pounce on the first person that would dare to release the force of anger he carried inside him.

"I don't know Nick." Jarrod shook his head as he watched his brothers' long strides back and forth across the waiting room. "I'm sure that the doctor will tell us more as soon as he can."

"Sides Nick, Beth's a strong girl. She's gonna come outta this just fine. You wait and see." Heath put a comforting hand on his brother's shoulder just as his mother and Mr. Tanner walked through the front door.

"Nick!" Victoria went immediately to his side and with gray eyes filled with love asked how Beth was doing. Edward kept his hands on her shoulders, squeezing them gently to give her some comfort.

"I dunno Mother. Dr. Merrar's operating now." Nick slammed his hat down on the floor with a large swing of his arm. "I can't..I can't take this waiting much longer!"

"Why don't you sit down for awhile.."

"I can't sit down! Mother she took a bullet that was meant for me! How can any of you expect me to be calm about this? She may be dying in there!" Nick shot back at his mother angrily, but regretted his tone as soon as it had left his mouth. "I'm..I'm sorry Mother."

Victoria shook her head and put a hand on her son's rough cheek. "You don't have to apologize, I understand." She took Nick's hand and he exhaled a deep sigh, allowing her to lead him to the waiting room chairs and sit down next to her.

As the room grew dark with the setting of the sun, Heath and Maybelle lit the lanterns in the waiting room and sat back down together, wordlessly. Jarrod had left briefly to retrieve some legal briefs from his office and returned to the same chair he had sat in before, pretending to read over the papers but unable to focus his attention on them. Audra had rode into town and brought a large basket of fried chicken and biscuits for the family but it remained sitting in the corner of the room, untouched.

The large grandfather clock in the corner of the room continued to alert them all to the passage of time at the top and bottom of the hour. Shortly after it had chimed eleven times, the exam room door opened and Dr. Merrar emerged.

Nick had heard the creak of the door first and jumped to his feet. "Doc, how is Beth?" He asked anxiously.

"She's going to make it Nick." Dr. Merrar replied.

Victoria noticed the lack of pleasure or a smile on the good doctor's face. "But?" She asked.

"But," He sighed. "The bullet hit her spine, just beneath her ribs. Right now, I can't tell you how much damage it's done. Not until she wakes up. However, it didn't sever her spine, it only nicked it. It's possible that she has no damage at all from it." He tried to be reassuring to everyone.

"It's also possible that there is damage." Victoria added.

"What kind of damage are we talking about here Doc?" Nick asked, but the thought was already firmly planted in his mind.

"There's no easy way to say it but she may have some kind of paralysis. Whether it's partial paralysis with some weakened movement or total, there's just no way for me to tell until she wakes up and I can examine her movement.

"When will she wake up doctor?" Jarrod asked.

"A few hours most likely."

"Can I stay with her." Nick more told the doctor then asked, he was halfway down the hall towards the exam room as the words came out.

Jarrod took on the role of Pappy again, pushing back his own emotions. "Heath, why don't you take Maybelle home. Mr. Tanner, if you could please take my Mother and Audra back to the ranch, I would appreciate it."

"And you?" Victoria asked her eldest.

"I'm going to stay here and wait."

"Alright, but you'll let us know as soon as Beth wakes up and Dr. Merrar finds out if…" Her small hand covered her mouth trying to choke back the tears that threatened to fall.

"I will Mother, I promise I will. Go home and get some rest, please." Jarrod kissed his Mother's cheek and watched as everyone left and he stood alone in the waiting room. His cerulean eyes switched their gaze towards the room his brother had entered. He wasn't often given to prayer, but on this one occasion he made an exception.

He pulled out a chair and sat down beside the narrow bed. Stroking the long blonde hair, he pushed tousled locks off her forehead and placed a kiss upon her. "Beth," He said in a deep gentle voice. "You're gonna be just fine now. Doc said you came out of the surgery just fine, good as new. You hear me, good as new! As soon as you get out of here, you and I are going to go for the longest ride across the whole valley and we're gonna have the biggest picnic right beside Frenchmen's Creek. I'll have Silas cook enough food for an army. And at the end of the picnic, right before we leave, you know what I'm gonna do? I'm gonna get down on my knee and ask you to marry me. And you're gonna jump right into my arms and say yes!" Taking her hand in his, he brought it to his lips and kissed her palm. "You know, Dr. Merrar is gonna take a look at you when you wake up and he'll find out that you're just fine!" He stopped speaking and watched her, looking and waiting for signs of her coming around. He silently prayed that she would walk out of the office and not have to be carried out. It should be him lying on that table and her waiting for him to wake up, it was not supposed to be this way.

An hour passed by and Nick rubbed his tired eyes. He kept hold of her hand in his, continuing his vigil. Jarrod had joined him and leaned against the doorframe.

"Beth, it don't matter if you walk out of here or if you can't. Heck I think I might actually like carrying you around, that's more time you'll be in my arms. No matter what the doc says, I'll still love you and I'm still going to ask you to marry me. No matter what Beth, I love you."

The doctor checked her pulse and heartbeat with great frequency. He nodded his head to the brothers that everything seemed fine. Heath returned to the doctor's office and joined his brothers in the vigil. Nick didn't speak it, but the support and presence of his brothers meant everything to him.

The grandfather clock gave notice it was the bottom of the 2am hour and Beth made her first stirrings. She turned her head in Nick's direction and muttered some brief incoherent words.

"Beth," He whispered, "C'mon now, open those beautiful eyes for me." A wide toothy grin came across his face as she lifted her arm and brought her hand to her face. "See that? You're gonna be just fine, c'mon Beth, wake up now." His spirits lifted at the one movement she had made.

The blue eyes opened and looked at the rugged and tired cowboy sitting beside her. "Ni..ck." Her voice was hoarse and raspy.

"Hello there beautiful lady." He beamed and looked back over his shoulder to his brothers.

"Hello." She replied with a small weak smile.

"Well now," Dr. Merrar moved to her bedside. "You gave all of us quite the scare, young lady! Why don't you let me take a look at you, alright?" He had already developed a suspicion that all was not right; he'd noticed it while she slowly came out of the affects of the anesthesia. "Nick, could you step back please?"

Nick reluctantly moved back the chair and stood up, leaning against the wall next to both Jarrod and Heath. He watched, holding his breath as Dr. Merrar checked the reflexes in both arms and hands. He smiled when Beth responded to all the poking and prodding in both arms. "Ya see Doc? Good as new!" Beth looked over at him and their eyes locked.

Dr. Merrar's attentions then shifted to her legs. He first lifted her foot from underneath the covers and ran his finger across the bottom of her foot. He expected and wanted to see her toes and foot flex in reaction, but instead there was no response. Nick's smile disappeared. The other foot was lifted and again, nothing. Next the reflexes in both ankles, Beth's eyes filled with tears as she watched the doctor's tests and felt nothing in either leg. She closed her eyes and with all her might tried to follow the doctor's directions and lift up her legs, but nothing happened. She felt that they had been cut off, removed, there was no longer any feeling in either one. "Nooo." She softly cried out.

Nick pushed away from the hand Heath put on his shoulder. It should be him lying there, he thought angrily. A large fist balled up and was thrust through the walls of exam room.

The heavy winds pushed down the pouring rain in angular sheets and cut directly into their faces as they made their way into town. Nick, Victoria and Edward struggled underneath the nearly gale force winds to keep the horse and carriage on the road. Were it for any other reason, the trip would have been delayed until the rains had gone. However, this was the day that Dr. Merrar would be releasing Beth from his care and she would be allowed to return to the ranch. There was nothing; not weather or any other force that would stop Nick from bringing her home to where she belonged. The ranch, as far as he was concerned, would be hoer home for the rest of her days. Whether or not she would ever run into his arms again or if he would be carrying her up and down the grand staircase, it didn't matter, this was her home. Beth was alive and she had made it through their ordeal and he would forever be by her side.

It had been three days since Beth had regained consciousness. Nearly four days since she'd been shot and had the use of her legs stolen from her. Nick had delayed a majority of his responsibilities at the ranch while he stayed with her, encouraged her and helped the doctor with trying to exercise and massage her legs back to health. She had spoken few words to him or anyone else since she had first woken. And the warm smile that he loved had yet to be seen.

Dr. Merrar had remained in a positive mind, speaking encouraging words to all of them. He had eased Nick's mind when he inquired on her emotional state, telling him that he had to understand it would take time to get over what had happened but she would soon return to her normal self again. He hoped that the good doctor was right and that the beautiful and vibrant young woman he had fallen in love with would soon return to him.

There also remained the hope that the use of her legs might return in some manner; perhaps a partial recovery of feeling or full usage of both legs again. Nick's heart held onto that hope with all its might.

Victoria had noticed a change in both Beth and her son. It almost frightened her, the way the both of them had become so different because of one tiny piece of metal, one bullet. What she saw in the eyes of both was anger, pure unbridled fury. In Nick she also saw more than a fair measure of guilt. Beth, whom she would expect to see a great deal of sadness from, appeared bitter and angered.

And in her son, a force of anger that was pushed back but just on the edge of coming through with a force she'd not seen in a long time. Victoria believed that the only thing holding back the anger; was a heavy dose of guilt that he had put squarely upon his own shoulders. Nick's usual bellow had dropped several levels, to a low tone that was at times, barely audible. Though some might have seen it as a welcome change, those closest to him knew that it was a cause for concern. The confident and rapid manner in which he carried and expressed himself had even changed. His shoulders slumped slightly, as though the guilt he carried was literally sitting on them and his stride had slowed considerably. He still kept pace with anyone else, but Nick was normally the man that was halfway down the street while everyone was still getting off their horses.

Edward had ridden to the ranch at dawn, before the rains had begun. He wanted to be there with Victoria when they picked up Beth. It affected him, what had happened, more than he could have possibly foreseen. These Barkleys had become more important to him than any other family he had known in the past, especially Victoria. She was suffering, along with her son and Beth, though she wouldn't say anything and tried to remain strong. Seeing her son this way was breaking her heart in two and Edward needed, no had to be there for her.

It was affecting everyone, deeply. Before they left, Heath followed Nick out to the barn under the guise of helping hitch up the carriage. Though it was truly a one-man job, Heath wanted the opportunity to speak with Nick. He had tried before, everyone in the family had, but he would brush them off or merely huff and walk away. The rain had already begun to fall as they crossed the front yard and went to the barn.

"So Beth finally gets to come home. Bet you're happy to have her under the roof again." Heath said.

"Yep." Nick said, without so much as a glance towards his brother.

Heath rolled his eyes, uncomfortable in this position, it was usually Nick that was dragging words out of him and now he had to do the dragging. Not one of many words, he got right to the point. "It ain't your fault, you know."

"Right." Came the instant reply. He continued to ready the carriage.

"Nick, would ya stop and look at me while I'm talking to ya?!"

He threw down the gear he was carrying and crossed his arms. "Awright Heath, I'm looking at ya! Now what?!"

"I wanna hear it from you, really hear that you don't believe that what happened to Beth was your fault."

The hazel eyes suddenly blazed and he glared at his brother. "Not my fault? That's what you wanna hear? She's got no feeling in either of her legs and she may never have use of them again! And do you know why? Because she took my bullet, yeah, my bullet. I should be the one that's lying in Dr. Merrar's office, not her. ME!" Nick used his shoulder to push Heath out of the way and finished hitching up the horses.

Heath grabbed his arm; he couldn't let Nick take on the blame. "Dontcha understand, its not your fault, or hers. Nick, blame the man that did the shooting but not yourself. It just doesn't make any sense at all!"

"What doesn't make any sense boy," Nick spoke slowly through gritted teeth, "Is that she may never walk again. That's what don't make any sense!"

Heath softened his voice, "You're right, it don't make any sense. I know how much you care about her and how much you must be hurting right now."

"I'm gonna ask her to marry me Heath."

"What? Are you sure Nick, that's awful fast. Look I know you feel responsible for what happened but…"

"That's not why I'm asking her to marry me. I decided I wanted to ask her when we were being held."

"Are ya sure Nick?"

"Yep, I'm sure and I'm through with talking about it. Got it?"

"I got it Nick."

When Nick, Victoria and Edward pulled up in front of the doctor's office, they found Dr. Merrar waiting for them just inside the door.

"I can't believe you made it all the way out here in this storm. Come on in and let me get you some towels." Dr. Merrar quickly ushered the soaked threesome into his office. He brought them into his office in the back where they could warm themselves in front of the small stone fireplace.

"How's Beth this morning, Doc?" Nick asked while he tried to dry off his tousled mane.

"Let me get you all some coffee and we can talk for a little before you see her."

Nick looked worriedly toward his mother then the doctor.

"What's wrong?" Victoria asked.

Dr. Merrar fetched three coffee cups and poured them all a hot cup. "Sit down, please." He waited for Victoria and Edward to seat themselves while Nick opted to stand and pace in front of the fire. "Look, I don't know how to say this exactly, except to come right out and say it. Beth doesn't want to go back to your ranch. She wants to stay here and finish her recuperation and then she expressed her wishes to move into the boarding house."

Nick's pacing finally stopped, "Whaddya mean she doesn't wanna come back to the ranch?!" He demanded of the doctor. "Of course she's coming back to the ranch.." His voice was rapidly growing in its exuberance until his mother held up her hand.

"Nick, please." With her son effectively quieted, Victoria turned back to the doctor. "I don't understand, why doesn't she want to go to the ranch?"

"She blames me for what happened, that's it."

"Nick! Please let Dr. Merrar answer my question."

"It has nothing to do with blame Nick, as far as I can tell. And everything to do with her feeling that she would be an undue burden on all of you." Dr. Merrar folded his hands at his desk and spoke in his usual good bedside manner.

"Beth's not a burden, not to me or anyone else!"

"Understand Nick, she feels useless right now. Like she is a burden because she can't walk. Its an awful lot for anyone to deal with, you might be feeling the same way if you were in her shoes."

"I should be in her shoes." Nick muttered under his breath.

"What Nick?" Edward heard what he had said, he was sure of it, but just couldn't quite believe it.

"Nothing." Nick looked down at the floor for a moment then back up at the doctor. "Can I go talk to her?"

"Alright Nick, but just be gentle with her, she's having a pretty rough time of it."

"I will Doc, you have my word on it. Mother, Edward, wait here for me. We'll be ready to leave soon."

"We'll be right here." Victoria told him with a warm smile.

Nick opened the door slightly and peeked his head inside. Beth was sitting in the corner, in a wheelchair and gazing out the small single window in the room. "Morning Beth, heck of a storm Nearly got myself drowned coming over here." He smiled a toothy grin at her, but she didn't take her sights off the window. "Umm, can I come in?"

"I s'pose so." She whispered.

He stepped inside, nearly on tiptoe; he'd never seen anyone with such a sad expression on their face before that his usual confidence was lost inside it. "Now, what's this I hear about you wanting to move to the boarding house?"

Beth looked down at her frozen legs and the wheelchair she might spend the rest of her life in. "I think it's for the best, don't you?"

Nick shook his head and went to her side, "No Beth, no I don't think it's for the best. You don't know anyone over at the boarding house. At the ranch, there's a whole houseful of people that know you and like you, that'll help take care of you. Help you get well again. That's what you need Beth."

"To be taken care of? I don't wanna be taken care of, be a burden to ya the rest of yur life! Or a burden to yur mother and sister! I don' want that Nick, not ever!" Salty tears stung her eyes and she turned away, not wanting him to see them.

"Beth, you're no burden!" Kneeling down next to her chair, he took her hand in his. "Beth, you mean the world to me. I will never, ever think of you as a burden. Do you hear me?"

"You say that now, but if I stay there with ya at the ranch ya'll feel that way someday. Iffen not today, then maybe tomorrow or the next day."

Frustrated, Nick grabbed both arms of the wheelchair and turned her around to face him directly. "Not today, not tomorrow, not ever Beth! I love you and I am going to spend the rest of my days showing you just how much you mean to me."

"What..what are ya saying Nick?" Beth's eyes grew wide.

"Well now, this isn't exactly how I planned on doing this. But umm," He got down on one knee in front of her. "Marry me Beth. Be my wife."

"Ya don't know what yur sayin' Nick. Ya don't wanna marry me."

"Oh yes I do Beth! I've known for awhile now, before this happened, that I wanted to spend the rest of my life with you."

"The rest of your life with a cripple? Look at ya Nick, yur half wild and so full of life. How I ever gonna keep up with ya like this?" The tears spilt over and left two shiny trails down her cheeks.

Nick wiped away the tears with a fingertip. "We'll find ways for you to keep up. That is, until you walk again. See now the way I figure it, if ya say yes then you'll be a part of what us Barkleys are famous for!"

"What's that? Hard-headed?"

He chuckled and for the first time saw a small smile return to her lips. It brightened the entire room and lifted his spirits. "Well that, but I was talking about the famous Barkley luck! Once you decide to become a Barkley, you'll get the luck too and then you'll be running to me in no time!"

"Oh I wish I could believe that Nick, I wanna believe that!"

"Believe it Beth. But its gonna be luck and hard work. We’re gonna exercise those legs everyday and I'm gonna make you work them till you're ready to knock my lights out. I'm not giving up Beth. Don't you give up either!"

"Promise I won't be a burden?"

"I promise, you won't be a burden to me or anyone else in my family!" He leaned over her, closing in until their faces were only inches apart. "But you still haven't answered my question Beth."

Silence fell and eh waited for what seemed an interminably long amount of time.

"Awright Nick." She said softly. "Yes, I'll marry ya."

One arm slid underneath her thighs and the other behind her back, he lifted her with ease into his arms. "I knew the Barkley luck wouldn't run out!" Their lips met in a sweet kiss that quickly became passionate. She wrapped her arms around his neck and let one hand play with his damp hair while he left a line of kisses across her cheek and kissed her soft earlobe.

"Oh I do love ya so Nick!"

Still holding her tightly, the familiar bellow returned. "Mother!"

She came running into the room with Edward and the doctor close behind her. "Nick, Beth; is everything alright?"

"Couldn't be better Mother!" He grinned. "Come on now, what are you waiting for? Let's get the future Mrs. Barkley back to the ranch!"

Victoria's mouth dropped open. "The future Mrs. Barkley. Oh Beth, I'm so happy for you both!" She kissed Beth's cheek then stepped back to help gather Beth's things together. As she did, she shot a very brief glance towards Edward and he could see the shadow of doubt cross her face.

Edward took the wheelchair and covering it with blankets, carried it outside in the rain to the back of the wagon.

Nick covered Beth's lap with an extra blanket then pulled off his black leather jacket and wrapped her snugly inside it. "Snug as a bug in a rug!"

"Yes Nick."

Edward moved up front and took the reins of the wagon with Victoria seated beside him. Nick moved to the back and wrapped his arms around Beth to keep her warm in the cold rain, which had at least let up in its intensity somewhat. "Lets go home."

Upon their return to the ranch, the deluge had ceased and the rest of the family was waiting on the front porch when they returned from town. All were waiting to give Beth a friendly welcome and make her feel at home. Heath had already informed Jarrod of Nick's intention to propose to Beth and both brothers expressed their mixed feelings over the idea. But Heath and Jarrod were both still unaware that the proposal had already taken place.

Audra beamed as Mr. Tanner pulled the wagon to a halt. "Beth! It's so good to have you back again. Dr. Merrar's office is so depressing, I don't know how you managed over there all this time!"

"Thank ya Audra, I guess I'm glad to be back here too." Beth replied quietly.

Nick jumped down from the wagon but just as he was about to take Beth into his arms, Jarrod nudged his surprised brother aside.

"Now Nick," He chided with a sly grin, "You don't think that you're the only one that gets to hold this lovely lady, do you?"

"Hey! She's my girl, ya know!" He huffed in return.

"That may well be, however I'm afraid that you are going to have to learn to share with your brothers."

Along with the other women, Beth laughed and smiled. "I s'pose your brother's right Nick. Wouldn't be right for ya not to share!"

"There now, you see?" Jarrod spoke triumphantly to his brother and brought Beth into his arms. "Oh Nick, do be a good man and bring in her chair would you?"

Nick grumbled while everyone went inside. Except Heath, who couldn't resist lagging behind and letting out a small snicker.

"You know Nick, do believe that I should get a chance to carry her around too!"

"Uh-huh. Why don't you just carry your own girl?" He said, referring to Heath's new companion, Maybelle.

"I might just do that." Came the reply. "So how's Beth doing?" He asked, becoming serious.

"She's gonna do just fine! Oh and by the way, she said yes!"

Heath didn't make any effort to hide his surprise. "You asked her to marry you, already?"

"Yep, sure did. Took a little convincing, but in the end she just couldn't resist my charms!"

"Right." Heath rolled his eyes and helped Nick bring down the cumbersome wheelchair from the wagon. "I just thought that you'd wait a while and see what happens."

"Look Heath, I'm gonna marry Beth whether she's still in that wheelchair or she can walk up the aisle. I'm gonna marry her."

Victoria opened the front door. "Silas has lunch ready. Are you two coming in soon?"

"Yes, be right there Mother."

Nick didn't leave Beth's side the rest of the day. Just before dinner there was a knock on the door and Maybelle joined the family for dinner, at Heath's invitation. After dinner, he requested a bottle of champagne from Silas and uncorked it with finesse and not a drop spilt. After pouring glasses for everyone, he stood next to Beth and took her hand.

"So what's the special occasion?" Audra asked her brother.

"Well now, it seems that I am a most lucky man. Beth here, as agreed to be my wife."

Audra shouted happily and then looked around at everyone in the room. "Am I the last one to know about this?" She demanded.

"I didn't know about it?" Maybelle smiled back. "Congratulations both of you!" She raised her glass to the couple and Nick nodded towards her.

Hugs and well wishes were exchanged. When the champagne bottle had been finished, Heath took Maybelle's arm.

"Care for a walk in the garden? Seems all the clouds have gone and it’s a beautiful night."

"I'd love to Heath."

Heath walked her out onto the veranda and into his mother's prized gardens. While Nick was busily talking off Jarrod's ear about ranch business; Beth looked towards the veranda. She watched Heath and Maybelle as they stepped into the gardens, walking arm in arm together. Walking in the gardens seemed like such a treasure to her now and she sighed as she wondered if she would ever do that with Nick again. Walk arm in arm. She turned back to look at him, even when he was just talking the man was always in a state of motion.

"Beth, you all right?"

The deep baritone voice drew her out of her self-pity. "What?"

"What are you thinking about?" Nick asked.

"Oh nutting really, jest thinking about when you and I went for a walk in the gardens. How pretty the roses are and how good they smelled."

"You know," He said gently, "They smell real good right now I bet. Ya know the way the grass smells so fresh after a rain, well the roses smell even better after that too. Lemme show you." Without waiting for a reply, Nick picked her up from her chair and she wrapped her arms about his neck. "Mother, we're gonna head into the garden ourselves for a bit."

"Alright Nick."

Nick stepped off of the veranda and into the gardens. She shook her head slightly, he was right; the roses did smell even prettier after a rainstorm. The fragrance was so heady that if she breathed deeply enough, she was sure she'd get dizzy from it.

There was a small wooden bench in the middle of the garden and he sat down, putting Beth down in his lap.

"Wonder where Heath and Maybelle went?" Beth said.

"Oh I figure my brother found a good quiet spot to maybe steal a kiss."

"Oh, so is that what you were planning?"

"Yep. That's exactly what I had in mind." Nick laced his fingers into her blonde hair and hungrily plunged his mouth onto hers in a kiss that left them both panting for breath. They held onto each other with all their might, not wanting the time to end.

"I love ya Nick, I love ya so much!"

Inside, Audra nudged Pappy in the arm. "You know Jarrod, I could use some help with that yarn for the new blankets I'm making for the orphanage."

Jarrod was busy watching the interactions between his Mother and Mr. Tanner. "I'm sorry, what did you say Audra?"

Audra sighed exasperated. "I said I could use some help…in the other room."

"Oh, oh certainly Sis." Jarrod reluctantly left the two alone and followed Audra out of the parlor.

"Finally!" Edward said in an exaggerated sigh. He took Victoria by the shoulders and gave her a brief kiss. "I was wondering if I would ever get a chance to kiss you again!"

"Well I'm afraid that's one of the downfalls of having children. Your private time all but disappears completely." Victoria paused and wrung her hands. "Edward, I was thinking about what you said."

"About Africa?"

"Yes. I'm afraid that with a wedding coming up, I'll have to say no for now. There's going to be so many preparations and planning to do."

"Then I guess my clients will just have to wait awhile longer."

"What?"

"You don't think I'd miss out on Nick and Beth's wedding, do you? They are practically family to me. Besides," He took both of Victoria's hands in his, "I will wait for you to come with me."

"You'd do that?"

"Victoria, don't you know by now how much you've come to mean to me? I'll wait for you, until you're ready. I want to show you my home there and I want you to be a part of it. I want to share all of it with you."

"Edward, I.."

He put a finger to her lips. "I love you Victoria."

Nick returned to the ranch for lunch; he'd felt guilty leaving the house this morning and found it very difficult to do. However, for the past two weeks he'd been shirking his duties on the ranch and it was high time that he returned to them. He'd taken a lot of pushing from his brothers and mother to continue with his work, but eventually he had given in. Besides, he had thought to himself, Beth hardly seemed to enjoy his company much anymore.

During the course of the last two weeks, Beth had changed and Nick was at a loss on how to bring her back around. It seemed that his bride to be had only two moods of late, one being sullen and quiet, the other angry and spiteful. He never knew quite what to expect when he saw her. The last two evenings, his goodnight kisses had even been spurned and she had put her hand between them when he had tried to be close with her.

His mother greeted him at the door when he returned home. "Nick, I thought you would be out all day with the men."

"I thought I might come home and get myself a bite to eat." He grinned while pulling off his gloves. "You don't mind a little extra company for lunch, do ya?"

"No, of course not. Edward should be here shortly for lunch as well." Victoria laced her arm in her son's. "But I suspect that I'm not the only reason that you came home for lunch."

"Well no, not the only reason." Nick looked up the staircase longingly. "How is she today?" He had tried to get Beth to come downstairs before he left this morning, but she had refused angrily and had shouted at him to leave her alone.

"I don't know Nick, I brought her breakfast upstairs after you left. But when I went to her room a little while ago, she hadn't even touched a single bite. I offered to help her with getting dressed, but she refused." Victoria was concerned for the young woman. When Beth had first returned to the ranch, there was an air of hopefulness about her. She had sensed over the past two weeks that slowly, Beth was giving up on both regaining the use of her legs and on her impending marriage to Nick. Victoria had tried to get her interested in planning the wedding and at first, she had. But the last two times that Victoria had brought up the subject, Beth had turned away to look out the window and wouldn't say a word.

"Not eating, is she? Can't have my bride wasting away to nothing now can I?" Nick replied, forcing a smile to his lips. He was worried, but the last thing anyone needed including Beth, was to show it.

"Nick, go easy. Remember the doctor said it's going to take some time for her to deal with all of this. It has to hurt that there still hasn't been any change. I'm sure she must be so frustrated right now; I know that if I were in her position, you probably wouldn't even be able to put up with me! I would be so cantankerous and unruly." She put a loving hand to her son's cheek. "Just tread lightly, that's all I'm trying to say."

Nick placed a tender kiss on his mother's white hair. "I will Mother and thank you." He bounded up the stairs in twos and strode down the hall until he reached the closed guest bedroom door. It was then that he hesitated, wondering what mood he would encounter on the other side of the door. His hand balled up and his knuckles rapped lightly against the door. Pausing, he waited for an answer but when none came, he knocked again, much louder this time.

"Beth?"

"Come in." Came the low reply.

He opened the door slowly and stuck his head inside the door. "Afternoon!" The door was pushed the rest of the way open and he stepped inside. "So how's the prettiest girl in all of California?"

"Fine Nick." Beth smoothed the covers in front of her, still in bed and in her nightgown.

"Now, what's this?" He went to the table by her bed and eyed the untouched breakfast tray.

"I wasn't hungry."

"Not hungry? How can you not be hungry for Silas's steak and eggs, why he makes the best steak and eggs you've ever tasted!"

She looked up at him then sighed and turned away. "I'm not hungry, Nick."

"Come on Beth, you need to eat something. Can't have you wasting away on me!" He sat down on the bed next to her and took her hand, but she pulled away and he slapped his thigh in frustration. "Beth.."

"Nick, can't ya jest leave me alone?!"

"Noooo, no I can't just leave you alone. I told you Beth, we're going to keep working those legs and I'm going to do everything and anything to see you get well again. And that includes making sure that you eat like you're supposed to. I am not about to allow you to give up, not on anything."

"Ya know, I can see purty good out that window. Ya know what I saw today Nick?" She looked out the window and a single tear spilled from her eye and down her cheek. "I saw ya ride off on yur horse, I saw ya fly like a March wind." Beth turned from the window and stared into Nick's eyes. "I ain't never gonna do that again. I ain't never gonna go riding with ya, unless its in a carriage. I can't even go for a walk with ya!"

"Sure you will Beth! One day you will, I know it. In the meantime, I'll take you on all the carriage rides that you want. I'll carry you across the valley for a walk. We'll go down to the lake and have ourselves a picnic, hey how about we do that tomorrow?"

"I dunno Nick."

Cupping her face in his hands, he leaned in just an inch from her face. "Beth, c'mon now. How about I get you some lunch and then we do those exercises. Don't give up on yourself or us."

"Awright Nick, guess I'm a little hungry."

"That's my girl!" He gave her a short but tender kiss and went downstairs to get the both of them some lunch.

When he returned, they ate their lunch together and Nick worked with her for over an hour. But her heart wasn't into working on her legs and they both knew it. Beth later watched Nick ride off again on Coco and she tightly closed her eyes. How could she do this to him, she thought, she was ruining his life. This man, this man so full of life being tied down by a cripple. No, she couldn't do that to someone, especially not Nick. She would eventually put out that fire in his soul that she loved so much; she couldn't kill his spirit.

Nick met up with Heath a short while later and dismounted to continue his work with his brother and some of the ranch hands. It was brutally hot and he tossed his freshly filled canteen to his shirtless brother.

"You have a nice little break Nick?" Heath teased with a grin. He gratefully accepted the canteen and drank down several gulps of the cool water.

"Yep, guess I did."

Heath noticed his brother staring at Coco. "Something wrong with your horse?" He asked, knowing that Coco was getting up there in years.

"Huh? No, I was just thinking about what Beth said earlier."

"Yeah? What she say? Sure looks like you're miles away there."

"She was pretty sad. Talked about how she may never get to go riding with me. How she saw me ride out this morning and how much she wanted to do the same." Nick fingered his saddle and the reins. There had to be some way.

Heath came to stand next to Nick and looked over the saddle as well. "Say Nick, who was that fellow that Jarrod paid to make that real pretty saddle for Audra last Christmas?"

"Umm, Town something I think? Why?"

Heath ran his hand across the saddle. "Maybe he could rig up something for Beth. That's until she can walk again, of course."

"You know, I was just thinking there has to be some way to fix it so she can ride again. Like the cantle, maybe they can make one that's higher and will support her back so she can sit up properly."

"Big brother, I think maybe ya got something there." Heath patted the rear of the saddle. "If they can raise this up, maybe a short wooden board or something and cover it with leather." He looked down the side of the saddle, towards the fender and the stirrup. "What about straps along the fenders, straps with buckles. That could hold down her legs, keep 'em in place. Be a danger though if the horse took a spill."

"Yeah, but you're right Heath. I'm not talking about Beth racing a horse, just being able to get up on one and go for a ride. Two straps should do the trick. But then we need the right horse.."

"One that will take just hand commands, without any need of spurs or kicks. Ya know that Morgan that Mr. Watson just bought. They are really good at learning quick and are real good horses for new riders."

"Think we can talk Watson out of his Morgan? He's real proud of that horse, Heath."

"Oh," he replied with a lopsided grin, "If you go for his giving spirit and have the right price, I think he'll part with it."

"Ya know Heath, I think that's your specialty."

"Be more than happy to. Hey Nick?"

"Yeah?" Nick replied with a sideways glance.

"It’s a good thing you're doing."

"I sure hope so Heath."

"So how long did this Townsend fellow say it would take to make the saddle?" Jarrod inquired. He watched from behind his desk while Edward and Nick played a friendly game of billiards.

"Not more than three or four weeks." Nick replied as he put down his cigar and lined up his next shot.

"Three or four weeks? That's unbelievable, it was a little over two months to get Audra's saddle ready!" Jarrod's feet came off his desk and he stared at his brother in amazement.

"Well ya could say I gave the man a little extra reason to hurry it up some."

"Nothing speeds up the process like a good tip." Edward added with a smile.

"And with the Morgan ready to go, Beth will be riding in no time." Heath chimed in.

"That's if I can talk her into coming downstairs at all." Nick sighed and missed his shot, allowing Edward to take the eight ball and win yet another game. But Nick had hardly paid attention to any part of the game. He was growing more angry and frustrated with the entire situation by the hour. He wanted his Beth back, the one with the sweetest smile and large doe eyes that sparkled when she was happy. He wanted the Beth back that could get giddy with excitement and blushed at even the smallest of compliments. That's what he wanted, but could not find.

"Perhaps you should quit while you're behind dear boy." He slapped his opponent on the back.

"Yeah Tanner, maybe you're right about that." Nick smiled at him and walked to the fireplace, he leaned his long body against the mantle and stared into the fire.

Maybelle stood up from her seat next to Audra. "I should get going back home. I do have school tomorrow. Can't have the teacher all bleary-eyed."

"Nope," Heath grinned, "Sure can't. C'mon, I'll take ya home."

"Mrs. Barkley, thank you for a lovely dinner. The cacciatore was wonderful!"

"Oh, you're most welcome Maybelle. I'm glad you enjoyed it."

"Goodnight everyone." Maybelle called as Heath led her out the door.

"You know," Victoria said after the door had closed. "They seem to be getting quite serious about one another."

"Who?" Nick asked absent-mindedly.

"Heath and Maybelle, they appear to be falling in love. I wouldn't be surprised if we need to start planning another wedding soon." Audra gushed. "Nick, haven't you been paying attention to those two? Why ever since you and Beth, ummm, disappeared, they've been inseparable."

"No, guess I hadn't really noticed."

"You've had a lot of other things on your mind Nick." Victoria quickly added in. "Maybe I should go check on Beth and see if she ate her dinner."

Nick sighed and slammed down the glass of brandy he had just poured himself. "No, no you stay here Mother. I'll go check on her and she is coming downstairs, I don't care if she's in her birthday suit!"

"Nick…" Victoria started.

"No, I've had enough. No more self-pity and no more hiding. She didn't die out there. She lost the use of her legs, that's it. She's still alive and I'm not gonna let her waste away in that room forever. Enough is enough." Nick was halfway up the staircase before his mother could get another word out.

Edward put his arm around Victoria, "Maybe Nick is right, she needs to know that she's still alive and she'll never figure that out if she stays up there for the rest of her life. This might be just what she needs, a good kick in the, well you know."

This time there was no soft knock, no pause to wonder how Beth was fairing on the other side of the door. Nick balled up his fist and pounded on the door. "Beth!" He bellowed. "Beth ya better be decent, because I'm coming in." Without delay, Nick threw open the door and went inside. The air inside the room was stale and thick. Beth at balked at the suggestion of opening the windows and allowing fresh air inside.

"What do ya want?" Beth demanded in the dim light. She had a book in her lap but it was face down on the same page that it had been for the past week.

"You're coming downstairs and getting out of this room, right now."

"I don' wanna go downstairs, I'm fine here."

Nick folded his arms and glowered at her. "You're not fine right here, all you do in here is bury yourself in why me and poor me. And I've had enough of it."

"Oh you've had enough, have ya? Well yur not the one who can't walk anymore, 'member? That's me, I can't walk. Don't ya dare tell me that ya had enough!"

"What happened Beth, was terrible, no doubt about it. But its history now and you can't change it. You're gonna have to learn to live with what happened and that's all there is to it." Striding confidently across the room, he threw the covers off of her and dragged her into his arms. "You, young lady, are coming downstairs with me right now! You are going to say hello to everyone, you are going to smile and be friendly and you are going to make contact with the rest of the people in this house!"

"Put me down ya big bully!" She threw her fists into his chest.

"Is that all you got Beth?! Well, 'fraid it'll take more than that for me to let you go."

"Put me down Nick Barkley, right now!" She screamed as he proceeded to carry her out of the room and headed towards the staircase. "Ohhhh, I hate ya Nick, I hate ya!"

"Fine, you go on and hate me all you want, but you're going to have to do it downstairs with the rest of us!"

Victoria, hearing the commotion, dashed into the foyer with Edward and Jarrod close on her heels. "Nick, what on earth are you doing?" She shouted upstairs, exasperated.

"Mrs. Barkley!" Beth cried out with angry tears spilling down her face, "Make him put me down, please make him stop!"

"No! Beth you are rejoining the human race whether you like it or not. You might as well stop all this fussing because I am NOT going to put you down!" Nick retorted, he refused to give up. He'd tried sweetness and understanding, love and patience; but no of them had seemed to have any effect whatsoever.

Beth once again slammed the heels of her palms into Nick's chest, to no avail.

"Would ya stop it Beth, I am not letting you go!"

Victoria's eyes grew wide as saucers and she grasped Jarrod's arm hard. She'd seen it, she was positive that her eyes hadn't deceived her.

"Mother, what is it?" Jarrod asked quietly.

In a startling outburst, Victoria shouted at Beth. "Come on Beth! You've got more fight in you than that!"

"What are you doing?" Asked a gawking Edward.

"You're supposed to be helping Mother!" Nick shouted back down the stairs.

"You don't want to come downstairs, Beth?" She saw it again and now was completely certain of it. "If you don't want to come downstairs then you fight him Beth, you fight him hard!"

Without warning, Beth's knee jutted upwards rapidly and caught Nick on the bottom of his chin. The shock and sudden pain landed him backwards onto his buttocks, his arms still gripping her.

Edward's mouth dropped open wide, "Did I just see…"

"Yes you did!" Victoria cried out joyfully as she mounted the stairs as quickly as she could.

Nick shot at Beth angrily, "You kicked me!" But the fierce cloud over his face slowly faded into the realization of what had just occurred. "Beth!"

"I'm sorry Nick." She said without thinking.

Nick wrapped his arms around her back. "Beth!"

"Oh my God!" Beth hugged Nick back with all her might.

"Honey, you kicked me!"

On a bright afternoon when the air was thick with the sweet scent of orange blossoms, a small chapel was filled to capacity as the pastor spoke his closing words. "But the power vested in me by this church and the state of California, I now pronounce you man and wife." The kindly gray haired man clasped his Bible to his chest and smiled from ear to ear. "You may kiss the bride."

The groom grinned and lifted her veil as she stood before him, trembling slightly with all the excitement. He put a tender finger under her chin and drew her up to his gaze and the lips that longed to take their first kiss from his wife. He could have quite easily have spent the rest of his life there, kissing her tenderly, but became very much aware of all the people and his family that were only a few feet away. So, with a great deal of reluctance he ended the kiss then proudly put his arm around his bride.

"Ladies and gentlemen, may I present Mr. and Mrs. Heath Barkley!"

Maybelle leaned her head into Heath's chest, blushing fiercely as the rest of the family and well-wishers from miles around quickly surrounded them.

Following the wedding, everyone met back at the Barkley ranch for the grand wedding reception.

The best man clanked the crystal champagne goblet with his spoon several times. The crowd quieted down and waited to hear the toast.

Nick raised his glass and spoke loudly, "Now first, lemme tell all of you that there are only two single Barkleys left, so ya best get a move on! The boys and me got a bet going as to which one will hold out the longest, Audra or Jarrod. But ladies, stay away from Jarrod for awhile, I'm betting that Audra's gonna go next!"

Chuckles could be heard throughout the gathering and his Mother rolled her eyes while Edward squeezed her waist gently in jest.

"You may have all heard by now that there's this rumor going around about the Barkley luck. Well I'm here to tell you that it's no rumor. It’s the real deal. And I can speak of it with a great deal of first hand knowledge. I am one of the luckiest men that you're ever gonna meet! I have a beautiful wife that I can talk to, go walking with and riding and I'm sure that everyone in the whole state knows by now that last month, I got lucky again. I have the most beautiful daughter in the whole world, Kathleen." He winked at Beth as she sat next to Audra, bouncing their baby girl on her knee.

"But I had another big stroke of luck that happened some years ago. It was the day that Heath walked into my life, into all our lives and he became my brother. I umm, well that was one of the best days of my life. If you had asked me back then, I wouldn't have seen it that way, but I sure do now. Now all I can say Heath, is to wish you and Maybelle all the love and happiness in the world and for a houseful of children like I know ya want. I tell ya, if you're half as happy as I am, you're gonna feel like your heart could burst its so full. That's the feeling I want you both to have the rest of your days!" Nick paused and sniffled quietly, but loud enough for Heath to hear him. "To Heath and Maybelle!"

Crystal glasses clinked together and shouts of the bride and groom's names rose from the crowd. Heath and Maybelle entwined their arms and drank from their champagne glasses. Heath took a moment to give his brother a wink and pat on the back for his heartfelt words.

Nick made his way through the crowd to his wife and baby girl. He bowed gallantly before them. Then pointed out towards the dance floor where several people were gathering. "May I dance with the two prettiest young ladies in all of California?"

Beth leaned down and looked at their daughter, "What do ya say Kathleen, dance with your Father?" Nick took his daughter in one arm and led Beth to the dance floor with his other hand. They both held on to Kathleen as they danced a slow waltz together.

"You know, aside from Heath right now, I bet I'm the happiest man on earth! I got myself a beautiful wife and daughter, this home and my family all around me. Man can't ask for anything more."

"I feel the same way. Nick, thank ya for never giving up on me." Beth leaned her head into his chest. "I do love ya so!"

"The feeling is very mutual honey." Nick kissed the top of her blonde hair.

Victoria watched the whole scene, smiling warmly. Edward didn't leave her side for a moment. "Look at that, Edward, they are so happy. Now Heath and Maybelle are married too and soon they'll have children of their own." She leaned her head against his arm. "Kathleen, she's going to grow up so fast."

"I know," Edward replied. "That's why you shouldn't miss a minute of all of this my darling."

Victoria turned to face him. "What are you saying?"

Maybelle and Heath came up to the two of them, "Mrs. Barkley, oh I'm so sorry I keep doing that!" Maybelle chided herself. "I mean Mrs. Tanner, I can't thank you enough for all that you've done with this wedding and the reception, everything was so perfect."

"Oh you're most welcome Maybelle, it was truly a joy to do this!"

"Heath," Edward said, "I suspect you'll soon be a father yourself like your brother over there. You would of course be needing the services and wisdom of one very lovely grandmother, wouldn't you?"

Heath grinned, "Now I do believe you're right Edward, could sure use the services of one grandmother, 'specially when the missus and I might like to have a little time to ourselves once and awhile."

"Does this mean you want to stay here in Stockton for awhile and not go back to Africa?"

"I do believe that's what I mean dear lady."

"How long will we stay here?" Victoria asked hopefully.

Tanner scratched his beard thoughtfully, "Now, I was thinking that we could stay here for oh say, the rest of our lives?"

"But Edward, what about the house in Africa? It is truly beautiful out there, I love watching the wildlife and going on safari with you. I don't want you to miss out on that."

"There's no denying that its beautiful out there and it was incredible just how well you fit in there, it was like you were born to it. But its not the same, Victoria, this place is home."

"Boy howdy, sure am glad to hear you say that!" Heath slapped Edward's back, ecstatic to hear that they would stay.

"What's all the excitement about?" Nick asked, coming off the dance floor with his wife and daughter.

"Edward and I are staying in Stockton!" Victoria replied excitedly.

"That's great, for how long?"

Edward pulled Victoria close and kissed her, "Forever."

"Nick fairly beamed, "Welcome home."

THE END