Allyson Cooper

by Jarrodisforme

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.

Part 1

Victoria went into the kitchen to grab something to eat. She was running late. Nick came downstairs and met her at the door.

"Good morning. Mother," Nick said. "Where're you going?"

"Good morning, Nick," Victoria replied. "I have to interview the new teacher."

"They haven't found a teacher yet?"

"No. They haven't," Victoria answered. "I hope she is a good one."

"Okay," Nick replied. "Be careful."

"I will."

Nick went to the dining room and sat down. Heath, Eugene and Audra also entered the dining room.

"Where's Mother?" Heath asked.

"Mother went to a meeting to interview the new teacher," Nick said. "Too bad Jarrod is in San Francisco. He won't be back for weeks."

"Yes. I hope she's beautiful," Heath said.

"I agree," Nick replied.

"Me too," Eugene said. "I hope she's interested in us."

"It that all you think about?" Audra yelled. "If she's beautiful or interested in you?"

They all looked at each other and said, "Yeah!"

"You men are all alike," Audra replied, frustrated.

"Thank you," they all said at the same time.

After breakfast Audra went to her room. Nick, Heath and Eugene went to the stable where they saddled their horses and left the ranch.

* * * * * * * *

Victoria arrived in Stockton and went right to the schoolhouse.

"Hello, Sam," Victoria said.

"Hello, Mrs. Barkley," Sam replied.

"Where is she?"

"She should be here any minute."

"Okay, we'll wait," Victoria said.

* * * * * * * *

A beautiful young woman with brown hair and gorgeous blue eyes stepped down from the train and spoke to the conductor.

"Excuse me, sir. Where can I find the schoolhouse?" the woman asked.

"The school is right next to the church. You can't miss it," the conductor answered.

She went straight ahead, found the school, and went inside.

"Excuse me," the young woman said. "I'm here to apply for the teacher's job."

"Welcome to Stockton, Miss?" Sam said.

"I'm Allyson Cooper," Allyson replied.

"I'm Sam Walker," Sam said. " And this is Victoria Barkley."

"Welcome, Allyson," Victoria said. "Tell us about yourself."

"Well, I'm single, I love to teach, love the outdoors, and I love to read, especially poetry," Allyson replied.

"Well, Let's get down to business," Sam said.

They talked about the last job she had, and they could tell she loved to teach, so they made their decision.

"You're hired, Miss Cooper," Sam said.

"Thank you so much!" Allyson said excitedly.

Allyson left the school and went to look for a place to stay.

"Nice lady, Victoria," Sam said.

"Yes, she is," Victoria agreed.

Sam and Victoria left the school and went their separate ways.

Part 2

Allyson went to look for the place to stay. She noticed a sign that said: To Rent. She walked up to the house and knocked on the door. Mrs. Baker answered the door.

"What can I do for you, Ma'am?" Mrs. Baker asked.

"I need a place to stay," Allyson answered. "The sign said: To Rent."

"Oh, please come in," Mrs. Baker said. "What's your name?"

"Thank you," Allyson replied. "I'm Allyson Cooper. I'm the new teacher."

"That's a pretty name."

"Thanks."

Mrs. Baker showed Allyson a bedroom. She decided to take it. Mrs. Baker informed Allyson that she needed to go the store before it closed. Allyson offered to go to the store for her.

"No. I can't let you do that."

"That's okay. I don't mind at all. I insist." Allyson said.

Mrs. Baker agreed and gave her a list. Allyson went to the store. She bought the supplies Mrs. Baker needed. Just as she was about to leave, Allyson bumped into a young man, and dropped the supplies on the sidewalk.

"I'm sorry, Ma'am," Nick said. "I didn't see you."

"That's okay," Allyson replied.

They picked up the supplies from the sidewalk. They looked at each other, and Nick's heart told him to ask her name and ask her out on a date.

"Hello, I'm Nick Barkley. What's your name?"

"I'm Allyson Cooper. Are you related to Mrs. Barkley?"

"Yes. She's my mother," Nick said. "I wondered if you would like to go out with me tonight?"

"Yes, I would like that," Allyson replied. "I better go. I need to take these supplies to Mrs. Baker."

"Okay. I'll pick you up at six."

"That's fine."

* * * * * * * *

Allyson arrived back at Mrs. Baker's house. She placed the supplies on the table and told Mrs. Baker she needed to get ready for a date.

"Who's the lucky guy?"

"His name is Nick Barkley."

"He's not your type," Mrs. Baker said.

"What do you mean he's not my type?" Allyson replied.

"Trust me on this, he's not. Go ahead and date him. Nobody believes an old lady."

"Okay. I will let you know if you're right," Allyson said. "I'd better get ready."

Allyson got washed up then looked in her closet for a dress to wear. She found a beautiful green dress. She put it on and fixed her hair, then went downstairs to wait for her date. Nick picked her up at six, and they went to the Cattlemen's Restaurant, sat down and ordered their food.

"You know, you look beautiful today," Nick said. "What do you like to do?"

"I love to teach. I love the outdoors, and love the-."

"Me too," Nick interrupted her. "I'm not a teacher though. I'm a rancher."

"I know that. Yes, I know you're a cowboy."

Allyson thought to herself. "Mrs. Baker is right. He's not my type, but he reminds me of my sister. He would be interested in her."

Nick watched her and wondered what she was thinking. She looked up at Nick and smiled. He smiled at her. Later he took her home.

"I had a good time," he said and kissed her on the cheek.

"Me too," Allyson agreed. "You know, you and I don't have a lot of common, except the outdoors. I hope we can be friends."

"You're right. You and I don't have a lot of common, except the outdoors. Yes, I would like that."

Allyson went in the house and saw Mrs. Baker sitting on the couch.

"I thought you would be in bed," Allyson said.

"Well, I couldn't sleep," Mrs. Baker replied. "How was your date?"

"You're right. He's not my type. He's loud, just like my sister, but he has a good heart."

"Yes, he does."

Mrs. Baker and Allyson went upstairs and went to bed for the night. Allyson hoped there was a man out there for her.

Nick arrived at the ranch and walked into the house. He saw his family in the living room.

"Hello, Nick," Victoria said. "How was your date?"

"It was fine," Nick replied. "But, I don't think she's the one for me."

"What do you mean she not the one for you?" Heath said.

"She's not. Don't get me wrong. She's beautiful, but she's not my type."

Heath was just about to open his mouth when Victoria glared at him.

"Don't worry, Nick," Victoria said. "There is a woman out there for you."

"Thanks, Mother."

Nick went to bed thinking to himself, "I wonder if mother is right? If there is a woman out there for me?"

Part 3

Heath came downstairs whistling, went into the dining room, and sat down.

"What are you whistling about?" Nick asked.

"Sorry, Nick. I can't help you with the fence today," Heath said.

"What do you mean you can't help me with the fence?" Nick bellowed.

"I have to fix the roof at the schoolhouse," Heath said.

"Oh, you're going to meet the new teacher," Nick chuckled.

"No, I'm not. I'm just going to fix the roof."

"Yes, you are. I'll bet you five dollars that you will meet her and ask her out on a date, but she will not be interested in you," Nick said.

"You're on," Heath replied.

Nick and Heath shook hands. Then Heath went to the stable, saddled his horse, and left the ranch. He arrived in Stockton to fix the school roof. He saw a beautiful young woman walk toward the school. She rang the bell then went inside.

Heath thought to himself. "Nick is right. She is beautiful. I think I will ask her out on a date."

When school was out, Allyson went outside and saw a good-looking blond young man.

"Hello. I'm Allyson Cooper," she said. "What's your name?"

"I'm Heath Barkley," Heath replied. "I know we just met, but I wonder if you would like to go out with me? Where do you live?"

"I'd like that. Do you know where Mrs. Baker's lives?"

"Yes, I do."

Heath and Allyson went their separate ways.

Allyson entered the house.

"Hello, Allyson. How was your day?"

"It went great," Allyson said. "I'm going out on a date."

"Who is this guy?" Mrs. Baker asked.

"Heath Barkley," Allyson said.

Mrs. Baker looked at Allyson. She looked at Mrs. Baker and said. "I know, I know."

"What?"

"He's not my type."

"You said it, not me."

Allyson got ready then went downstairs to wait for Heath. Heath had almost left the ranch, when Nick told Heath to wait.

"What do you want, Nick?" Heath asked. "I'm late for a date."

"I know. I just want to say Good Luck."

Heath picked up Allyson at Mrs. Baker's house, and they went to the restaurant, sat down and talked.

Allyson asked Heath. "How did you meet your family?"

"Well. Before my mama died she told me I had a family and she told me to come to Stockton to find them. So here I am."

They talked about a lot of things, but later they had nothing more to say.

Allyson asked Heath, "Do you like poetry? I love poetry."

"I like it sometimes," Heath said. "But I know someone who likes it more."

"Who?" Allyson's eyes lit up.

"Well, he's not here, but he will be soon."

Allyson thought to herself. "Heath's not my type. He's a lot like my younger sister. He would be interested in her."

Heath took Allyson home. He kissed her on the cheek and said, "Good Night."

Allyson told Heath she wanted to be friends. He agreed with that, then she went inside the house.

Mrs. Baker asked Allyson, "How was your date?"

"It was fine. He is shy like my younger sister."

"How many sisters do you have?" Mrs. Baker asked.

"Three. One loud, one shy and the other one loves animals," Allyson said.

"You don't like animals do you?"

"Yes, I do, but I'm afraid of them, especially horses."

"Okay."

Allyson and Mrs. Baker went upstairs to bed.

Heath arrived back at the ranch, put his horse in the stable, and went inside the house.

"Nick?"

"Yes, Heath?"

"You won the bet. Here's the five dollars I owe you," Heath said.

"I won the bet!" Nick said excited. "She's not interested in you. What did she said to you?"

"Yes, you did," Heath said. "Yes, Nick. You're right, and she said she wanted to be my friend."

"Don't worry, Heath. There is a woman out there for you."

"Where did I hear that from?" Heath grinned.

"Well, I got it from our mother," Nick said.

"I thought so."

Heath thought about it. Nick was right. There was a woman out there for him, but who?"

Part 4

Eugene came into the house after enjoying riding his horse. He went into the dining room and sat down.

"I'm sorry I'm late," Eugene said.

"That's okay. We just got here ourselves," Victoria replied.

Eugene asked Nick and Heath, "I heard that your dates didn't go too well."

"Yes, our dates didn't go too well," Nick said. "She's not interested in us. She just wants to be friends."

"Well. I guess I'll ask her out on a date," Eugene replied. "She will probably be interested in me."

"I doubt it," Nick mumbled.

"What did you say?" Eugene asked.

"Nothing. She'll probably say yes," Nick said.

"Thanks. I better get going if I'm going to ask her out tonight."

Eugene went to the stable, saddled his horse, then left the ranch. He arrived in Stockton and went to Mrs. Baker's house. He knocked on the door. Mrs. Baker answered it.

"Hello, Eugene. What can I do for you?" Mrs. Baker asked.

"Hello, Mrs. Baker. I just wondered if Allyson is around."

"Yes, she is. Come on in," Mrs. Baker said. "You wait in the living room. I'll go get her."

Mrs. Baker went upstairs and knocked on the door. Allyson opened the door. Mrs. Baker told Allyson there was a young man downstairs waiting for her. She told Mrs. Baker to tell him she would be down in a few minutes. Mrs. Baker went downstairs to tell Eugene. Allyson came downstairs and went to the living room to meet the young man.

"My gosh! My brothers are right. You're beautiful," Eugene said.

"Thanks. What's your name?" Allyson asked.

"I'm Eugene Barkley."

"Oh, I'm Allyson Cooper."

"I just wondered if you want to go out with me?" Eugene asked.

"I'd like that," Allyson said.

"Okay." Eugene left the house, and arrived back to the ranch. He walked into the house and saw his mother in the living room.

"Hello, Mother," Eugene said. "Don't expect me for dinner. I'm going out with Allyson."

"Hello, Eugene. I hope you have a good time," Victoria replied.

"Thanks." Before Eugene went upstairs to get cleaned up, Audra told Eugene to wait.

"Audra, I have to get cleaned up for my date," Eugene said.

"I know, I heard. I just want to let you know about my party tomorrow," Audra replied. "When you go out, can you ask Allyson to come to my party?"

"Sure I will," Eugene said.

Eugene went upstairs to get clean up. Later he went to the stable and left the ranch to pick up Allyson. He arrived in Stockton and Allyson was waiting for him. They went to a restaurant and sat down.

Allyson asked Eugene, "What do you like to do? Do you go to school?"

"I would like to be a doctor," Eugene said. "I'm going to college."

"Oh, okay." Eugene talked to Allyson about everything, especially his love of animals. Allyson yawned. She found him boring.

"Are you okay?" Eugene asked.

"Yes, I'm fine. I went to bed late," Allyson lied.

Allyson thought to herself, "He's not my type, but he's like my youngest sister. He would be interested in her."

Eugene took her home. Before he left, he asked her, "Allyson, Audra asked me to invite you to her party. Would you like to come?"

"Yes, I would like that," Allyson said. "When?"

"Tomorrow."

"I'll be there."

Allyson went into the house and saw Mrs. Baker in the living room.

"Don't you even ask me about my date," Allyson said.

"I won't. Was it that bad?" Mrs. Baker asked.

"Yes. He's is so boring," Allyson said. "I might as well give up dating."

"Don't give up yet."

Allyson went upstairs to her room.

Eugene arrived back at the ranch and went into the house. He saw his family in the living room.

"How was your date, Eugene?" Victoria asked.

"It went great."

"How come you're home early?" Nick asked.

"She was tired. She said she went to bed late," Eugene said.

Eugene told his family good night and went upstairs to bed, hoping Allyson would be interested in him.

Nick and Heath look at each other, "I guess Allyson isn't interested in him," Nick said.

"Are you sure that she's not interested in him?" Heath replied. "Why is he home early?"

"Maybe she is tired like he said."

"Or she's not interested in him."

"Maybe you're right. She's not interested in him," Nick said.

"Who will tell him?" Heath replied.

"Not me. Let him find out the hard way," Nick said.

"Okay."

Will Eugene find out that she's not interested in him?

Part 5

Allyson came downstairs and went into the living room, feeling very depressed. She sat down.

Mrs. Baker stared at Allyson. She knew something was not right.

"You look down today. Are you depressed?" Mrs. Baker asked.

"Yes, I am," Allyson said.

"Why is that?"

"Because I can't seem to find the right one."

"You will."

"But how? I dated three Barkley brothers," Allyson said. "They don't seem to catch my eye."

"Actually, there is one more Barkley that you haven't dated yet," Mrs. Baker said.

"What?" Allyson confused. "How come I counted three?"

"He is the oldest one," Mrs. Baker said. "You haven't met him yet, that's why."

"Where is he?" Allyson said excited. "Is he handsome? Where can I find him?"

"Calm down, Allyson," Mrs. Baker laughed. "He should be here soon. He is a lawyer."

"A lawyer. I can't wait to meet him."

"Don't you have a party to go to?" Mrs. Baker asked.

"That's right. I forgot about it," Allyson said. "I'm too busy to think about this lawyer I want to meet. Anyway, I have to go to the store to buy a dress."

Allyson went to the store to buy a dress for the party. She found a gorgeous burgundy dress. Allyson took the dress to the counter, paid for it, then walked out of the store. She bumped into the young man.

"Oh, I'm sorry," Allyson said. "I didn't see you."

"That's okay. I wasn't paying attention," the man said.

The man picked up Allyson's package and gave it to her.

"Thanks." Allyson looked up to see beautiful blue eyes. She hoped he didn't hear her heart pounding. He gave her the chills.

"Excuse me, Ma'am," the man said. "I've got to get going."

"Me too." Allyson never got the chance to ask his name. She thought to herself, "He is so good-looking."

Allyson went to the house and saw Mrs. Baker.

"I met him," Allyson said. "I met the man of my dreams."

"What does he look like?" Mrs. Baker asked.

"He wears a suit. He's got black hair and gorgeous, I mean gorgeous, blue eyes."

"He has to be the lawyer," Mrs. Baker said. "Did you get his name?"

"No. But I will get his name," Allyson replied. "I know he's the one for me."

"How do you know he's the one for you?"

"I don't know," Allyson said. "Something about him makes my heart pound. All I know is that my heart tells me he's the one for me."

"Did he hear your heart pounding?" Mrs. Baker asked.

"No, I-I-I hope not."

"Okay. If you say so."

"I better get ready if I want to meet him at the party," Allyson said. "I hope he's there."

"Okay. I'll see you tonight," Mrs. Baker replied.

Allyson went to the bedroom to get ready.

* * * * * * * *

Jarrod arrived at the ranch, and put his horse in the stable. He walked into the house and saw his mother in the living room.

"Hello, Mother," Jarrod said.

"Oh, hi, Jarrod," Victoria replied. "How was your case?"

"It went great. I'm done for now," Jarrod said.

"Good."

"I guess I have to get ready for Audra's party."

"Okay. Jarrod, did you meet the new teacher while you were in town?"

"No, I haven't."

"All right, you can go now."

Jarrod went upstairs to get cleaned up.

* * * * * * * *

Allyson arrived at the ranch and knocked on the door. Silas answered it.

"Hello, Miss Cooper, come on in," Silas said.

"Thanks." Allyson went into the living room and looked around the house, Victoria walked into the living room and saw Allyson.

"Hello, Allyson," Victoria said.

"Hello, Mrs. Barkley," Allyson replied. "You've got a beautiful house."

"Thank you, and please call me Victoria."

"Okay."

When the boys came home from working they saw Allyson in the living room. Eugene went up to Allyson.

"You came," Eugene said.

"I'm glad I came." Allyson was not looking at Eugene. She was hoping to see the good-looking man.

"Well, Allyson, we're going to get cleaned up. Will you be here waiting for us?" Eugene asked.

"Yes, I will." Allyson felt uncomfortable around him. Audra entered the living room.

"Hello, Allyson. I'm Audra Barkley," Audra said.

"Hi, Audra," Allyson replied. "Can I ask you something?"

"Sure, you can ask me anything."

"How many brothers do you have besides those three?"

"Four," Audra said. "One, you haven't met yet. He's the oldest."

"Where is he?" Allyson replied.

"Oh, he's here. He went to clean up. He should be down in a few minutes."

"Okay, thanks." Allyson's heart was pounding in her chest. Nick, Heath and Eugene came downstairs and went to the living room. The men asked Allyson to dance with them. She danced with all three of them, but she didn't seem interested in dancing with them. Jarrod came downstairs and walked into the living room. Allyson went to the table to get something to drink. Audra and Allyson talked about a lot of things until Jarrod went to the table.

"Hi, Honey," Jarrod said. "You did great job with the party."

"Hi, Jarrod, thanks," Audra replied. "Jarrod, I want to introduce you to someone."

"Who?" Jarrod asked.

"Allyson."

"What?"

"This is my oldest brother, Jarrod," Audra said. "Jarrod, this is Allyson Cooper."

"Hi, Allyson." Jarrod stared at her eyes and lips. He wanted to kiss those full lips. Allyson stared at his beautiful eyes and wanted to kiss him passionately until she couldn't breath. Jarrod told Allyson he would be right back. While Allyson waited for the man of her dreams, Eugene talked to Allyson. They talked about a lot of things until Jarrod came back into the living room.

"May I have this dance, ma'am?" Jarrod asked.

"Sure, I'd like that," Allyson said.

They danced until it was time to go home. Allyson wished she could dance with him all night. Jarrod walked Allyson to her carriage. She gave him a paper with her address on it. Jarrod told her he would be there, then she left.

Eugene asked Jarrod, "Are you interested in her?"

"Interested in her? No, I'm not interested in her," Jarrod lied.

Eugene was glad Jarrod was not interested in her so he could ask her to go steady with him. Jarrod stayed outside in the fresh air. Nick came outside to talk to Jarrod.

"She's beautiful, isn't she?" Nick asked.

"Beautiful? She's gorgeous," Jarrod said.

"Why did you lie to Eugene, saying you weren't interested in her?"

"Because I know Eugene is interested in her," Jarrod said. "It she interested in Eugene?"

"No, she's not," Nick replied. "I know she's interested in you."

"How do you know?"

"Because Heath and I saw Allyson looking at you all night like she wanted to kiss you."

"Really?" Jarrod said. "I did want to kiss her before she left."

"Why didn't you?" Nick replied.

"Because I don't even know her, and anyway I didn't ask her out on a date yet."

"Why don't you go ask her?" Nick said.

"Maybe I will, and please don't tell Eugene."

"I won't tell him, but you'd better hurry because I overheard Eugene telling mother that he's going to ask her to go steady with him."

"I guess I'd better hurry," Jarrod said.

"Think you better," Nick replied.

Jarrod went inside the house, and to his bedroom. Nick, thinking to himself, hoped Eugene wouldn't get hurt when he found out that Allyson was interested in Jarrod, and not Eugene. He hoped Jarrod's plan didn't fail him.

Would Jarrod's plan work?

Part 6

Allyson came home from the party, happy that she had met the man of her dreams. She went upstairs to bed with a smile on her face. The next morning, she came downstairs, went into the kitchen and sat down next to Mrs. Baker.

"How was the party?" Mrs. Baker asked.

"It was great. No, no, no, I mean, it was excellent." She couldn't make up her mind.

"Did you get his name?"

"Yes, I did. His name is Jarrod Barkley," Allyson said. "I wish I could have danced with him all night."

"Why didn't you?" Mrs. Baker asked.

"Because it was so late last night," Allyson said. "Maybe he will ask me out on a date."

Mrs. Baker asked, "What about Eugene?" Allyson told Mrs. Baker that she wasn't interested in Eugene.

She told Allyson, "But he seemed to be interested in you."

"I'm sorry he feels that way," Allyson said. "But I'm not interested in him."

"Did you tell him that?" Mrs. Baker asked.

"Ooops, no I didn't!" Allyson had forgotten to tell Eugene that she just wanted to be friends with him. "Should I tell him?"

"I think you should before he finds out that you're interested in Jarrod," Mrs. Baker warned.

"I will. Right now I have to get ready for work. I will tell him as soon as I can."

"All right. I'll see you after work." Allyson got ready for work.

* * * * * * * *

Victoria and Audra went downstairs to the dining room and sat down to wait for the boys. When the boys came downstairs they sat down and ate.

"Well, Mother, I'd better run," Jarrod said. "I've got a case to finish. I probably won't see you all tonight, but I will see you all in the morning."

Jarrod went to the foyer to grab his briefcase. He looked around to make sure nobody was looking then grabbed his suitcase, and left the house. He placed his suitcase in the carriage and left the ranch.

"Well, Mother, we've got to go," Nick said. "Let's go, Heath and Eugene. This is a working ranch!"

"Okay, Nick, can I talk to you a minute?" Victoria asked. "You both can go. Nick will be with you in a few minutes."

"Okay," Heath said.

Heath and Eugene left the house to saddle their horses and wait for Nick.

"What is it, Mother?" Nick asked.

"I need your honest opinion," Victoria said.

"Okay."

"Who's Allyson interested in?"

"Jarrod. She's interested in him," Nick said.

"What about Eugene?" Victoria asked.

"She's not interested in him," Nick said. "I guess she finds him boring. I don't know."

"It going to break his heart."

"I know, but he will get over it as soon as he finds out that Allyson is not interested in him. Well, Mother, I've got go now. I've got lot work to do."

"All right. Be careful," Victoria said.

"All right." Nick left the house, got on his horse and left the ranch.

Part 7

Jarrod arrived in Stockton and went straight to Mrs. Baker's house. He stepped down from his buggy and went to the door. He was just about to knock on the door when Allyson opened it and saw Jarrod standing there in front of her.

"Jarrod, what are you doing here?" Allyson asked.

"I'm here to see you," Jarrod said.

"Well, I'm here, but I'm going to be late."

"It won't take long," Jarrod said. "I just wondered if you wanted to go out with me?"

"Yes, yes, yes," Allyson said excitedly. "Well, I have to get to work."

"I will take you there. My office is not far from the school."

They walk toward to the buggy. He helped her into the carriage, then got in. They left the house. He dropped her off at school then went on to his office.

Later that night, Jarrod picked her up and took her to the Cattlemen's Restaurant. He pulled her chair out, and she sat down, then he sat across from her.

"You look beautiful," Jarrod said.

Allyson blushed. "You look so handsome."

While they waited for their food they talked some more.

* * * * * * * *

Nick, Heath and Eugene arrived at the ranch, put their horses up for the night, and went inside the house. Eugene went upstairs to get cleaned up.

"How was your day?" Victoria asked.

"It was good. We finish all the fences," Nick said. "Anyway, where's Jarrod?"

"He's still at work," Victoria replied.

"Again? He needs a vacation."

"I know, but I've got this feeling that he's not at work."

"What do you mean?" Nick asked.

"It mean he went out on a date," Victoria said.

"With Allyson?"

"Yes."

"What about Eugene? He is getting ready to ask Allyson to go steady with him," Nick said.

"Well, he's going to have to find out on his own unless they tell him the truth," Victoria replied.

Eugene came downstairs and went into the living room. He said. "I'm going. Wish me luck."

"Good luck, Eugene," Victoria said.

Eugene went outside, saddled his horse and left the ranch. He arrived in Stockton, and went straight to Mrs. Baker's house. He knocked on the door and Mrs. Baker answered it.

"What can I do for you?" Mrs. Baker said.

"Is Allyson here?" Eugene asked.

"No, she's not."

"Where is she?"

"She went out on a date," Mrs. Baker said.

"With who?" Eugene asked.

"I don't know. She didn't say," Mrs. Baker said.

"Okay." Eugene went by the restaurant and saw Allyson through the window, smiling and laughing, and saw the man she was with from behind, and thought to himself, "I wonder who that guy is? He sure knows how to make her laugh."

Eugene turned around, got on his horse and left Stockton. He arrived back at the ranch, put his horse up for the night, and went inside the house to the living room.

"Did you talk to Allyson?" Victoria asked.

"No. She had a date with someone," Eugene said.

"I'm sorry."

"That's okay."

Eugene went upstairs, went to his room and to bed.

Part 8

Jarrod walked Allyson home. While looking into each other's eyes, they kissed passionately. His kiss left her breathless.

"Thank you for dinner. I had a great time," Allyson said.

"Me too. I have something to tell you," Jarrod said.

"I need to tell you something too," Allyson replied.

"How about we talk about it at the picnic by the lake?" Jarrod asked.

"I would like that," Allyson replied. "I love picnics."

"I'll pick you up tomorrow."

"I'll be ready." Just as Allyson turned to go into the house, Jarrod grabbed Allyson and kissed her again, leaving her breathless. Allyson said, "Good night, Jarrod."

Jarrod did the same thing. He hated to leave and hoped that she would go steady with him.

Would Allyson say yes to Jarrod?

* * * * * * * *

"Hey, Jarrod. How was your picnic?" Nick asked.

"It was great," Jarrod said happily.

Eugene stopped by the living room to listen to what they were saying.

"You know what, Nick?" Jarrod asked.

"What?" Nick replied.

"I think I'm falling in love with her," Jarrod explained. "I'm going to ask her to be my girlfriend."

Eugene hoped Jarrod wasn't talking about Allyson so he could ask her to go steady with him.

Jarrod asked Nick, "Where's Mother?"

"She's in the billiard's room," Nick said. "Before you talk to Mother-."

"What it is, Nick?" Jarrod replied.

Nick told Jarrod about Eugene spying on him and the woman. Jarrod was angry at Eugene for spying on him and the woman he loved.

"Well, did you tell Mother about Eugene spying on us?" Jarrod asked.

"Actually, he told us that he spied on you two. Mother told Eugene not to do that again," Nick said. "Boy, was she furious with him."

"Will he do it again?" Jarrod replied.

"I don't know. But we will have some fun with him," Nick snickered.

"Thanks." Jarrod went into the billiard's room and saw his mother reading a book.

"Hello, Mother," Jarrod said.

"Hello, Jarrod," Victoria replied. "How was your picnic?"

"It was great. Can I borrow one of your flowers?" Jarrod asked.

"Yes, you may. You can choose any of my flowers."

"All right." Jarrod went into the flower garden. He picked a flower, then wrote a poem for his love. Later, he went outside, saddled his horse and left the ranch. Eugene got ready to leave when he saw his brother leave with the flower. He wondered who the flower was for, so he decided to follow him.

Allyson arrived at the house and saw Mrs. Baker in the living room.

"Hello, Mrs. Baker," Allyson said. "I'm back."

"How was your picnic?" Mrs. Baker asked. "How did Jarrod react when you dressed up as a man?"

"It was excellent," Allyson said. "At first he was confused, wondering why a man was there instead of me until I kissed him on the lips. Boy, can he kiss."

"How do you feel about Jarrod?"

"I'm crazy about him," Allyson said. "I hope he asks me to be his girlfriend. I'm going to get cleaned up, then I'll help you with the supper."

Part 9

Jarrod arrived in Stockton, and went into a store. Not far behind, Eugene saw Jarrod go into the store and waited for his brother to come out. He saw a man with a flower go straight to Mrs. Baker's house and he thought to himself, "I knew that flower guy was Allyson's date."

The man went to the house and knocked on the door. Mrs. Baker answered it.

"May I help, sir?" Mrs. Baker asked.

"Can you give this flower to Allyson?" the man said.

"Sure." Mrs. Baker took the flower from the man and put the flower on the table. Allyson came downstairs. Mrs. Baker told her the flower on the table was for her. Allyson went to the table, picked up the flower, smelled it, then read the poem.

* * * * * * * *

Nick put his hand on Eugene's shoulder and said, "What do you think you're doing?"

Eugene almost jumped out of his skin and said, "Don't you ever do that again! You scared me to death," Eugene said.

"Do you want me to tell your mother that you have been spying on them?" Nick asked Eugene.

"No, please don't tell Mother yet!" Eugene yelled.

"I saw Allyson's date come out of the general store with a flower," Eugene said.

"You did?" Nick replied.

Eugene saw the man. He told Nick, "There he is! That's the man Allyson is dating."

"Him!" Nick said, hysterical. "That's not a man. That's a kid!"

"Kid?" Eugene confused.

"He's 15 years old," Nick said.

"Oh." Eugene looked embarrassed. "It's not funny!"

"Sorry," Nick said.

"Who is the man she's dating?" Eugene asked.

"I don't know," Nick lied.

Eugene saw Allyson come out of the store in tears, not realizing it was fake. Eugene wondered what was wrong.

"She's upset about something," Eugene said. "I've got to go to her."

"I know." Nick wondered what had upset her. Eugene went straight to Mrs. Baker's house. Nick saw Jarrod walk out of the store and went over to him.

"What's wrong with Allyson?" Nick asked. "Why is she crying?"

"She's not crying," Jarrod said.

"But she-."

"She's faking it. I taught her that," Jarrod interrupted Nick. "She knows Eugene is spying on us. Boy, was she mad."

"Oh."

Jarrod told Nick, he had to go to San Francisco. Nick couldn't figure why Jarrod had to leave Allyson behind 'till Jarrod whispered in his ear, Nick was happy for him. Jarrod went to the train station to get a ticket, got on the train, and left Stockton.

* * * * * * * *

Eugene went to Mrs. Baker's house and knocked on the door. Mrs. Baker answered.

"Hello, Eugene," Mrs. Baker said.

"Hi. Is Allyson here?" Eugene asked.

"Yes, she is. She's in the living room."

Eugene went to the living room and saw Allyson sitting on the couch. Allyson looked up and saw Eugene. She resisted the urge to slap Eugene for spying on her and her boyfriend.

"Are you okay?" Eugene asked.

"Yes, I'll be fine." She tried not to get angry with him.

"I've got to tell you about something," Eugene said.

"I've got something to tell you too," Allyson replied. "You go first, Eugene."

"When I met you, I fell in love with you," Eugene said. "Will you be my girlfriend?"

She hated to break his heart, but she had no choice.

"I'm sorry you feel that way, Eugene," Allyson said. "I'm not in love with you."

"What do you mean?" Eugene asked confused.

"It mean I can't be your girlfriend, because I already have a boyfriend. I'm sorry I didn't tell your sooner. I see you only as a friend," Allyson said. "I'm too old for you. I'm 31 years old, you're 21 years old. Can't we be friends?"

"Yes, we can be friends," Eugene said though he was hurt.

Eugene left the house, got on his horse and left Stockton to confront his brothers for lying to him about their feelings for Allyson.

Will Eugene realize that Jarrod is Allyson's boyfriend?

Part 10

Jarrod arrived in San Francisco, got off the train and got on a carriage.

"Take me to the jewelry store," Jarrod told the carriage driver.

"Yes sir," Mr. Walker replied.

Jarrod got into the carriage. Mr. Walker took him to the jewelry store. Jarrod asked Mr. Walker to wait for him.

Jarrod went into the jewelry store and saw all different kinds of beautiful engagement rings. Mr. Taylor, the jeweler, saw Mr. Barkley looking at the rings.

"Hello, Mr. Barkley, what can I do for you?" Mr. Taylor asked.

"I'm just looking for a beautiful ring for my future wife," Jarrod said. "I don't know which one to pick. I like them all."

"I can help you if you let me choose the ring," Mr. Taylor replied.

"Sure."

"I pick the diamond with rubies and emeralds," Mr. Taylor insisted. "What size does she wear?"

"She has little fingers. Can you hold it for tomorrow afternoon for me?" Jarrod asked. "I'll pick it up then."

"Sure."

"Thanks." Jarrod left the building, got in the carriage and told Mr. Walker, "Take me home."

"All right." Mr. Walker took him home. Jarrod got out of the carriage, paid Mr. Walker, then went into the house. The next day he went to work. Soon he was done and walked out of the office. He closed the door then went to the jewelry store. He went in the store, paid for the ring, then went to the train station to get a ticket. He got on the train and it rolled out of San Francisco.

Meanwhile back to the ranch.

Eugene came home, put his horse up in the stable, then went into the house. He slammed the door angrily.

Victoria heard the door slam and went to check it out. She saw Eugene in the foyer.

"What's wrong, Eugene?" Victoria asked.

"Where are Nick and Heath?!" Eugene yelled.

"Don't use your tone with me, young man," Victoria said.

"I'm sorry, Mother," Eugene replied.

"That's all right. They're in the billiard's room."

"Thanks." He went into the billiard's room and saw his brothers playing pool.

"Hello, Eugene. How was your day?" Nick asked.

Eugene looked at his brothers so angrily, he looked like he could explode. Nick and Heath couldn't figure why Eugene looked so angry, so Eugene told his brothers.

"You both lied to me!" Eugene yelled.

"What did we lie about?" Nick asked confused.

"You know what I'm talking about. Don't play dumb." Eugene said, upset.

"No, we don't. Tell us," Nick said.

"You both told me Allyson was not interested in you both," Eugene replied.

"She's not."

"Then who's her new boyfriend?" Eugene asked.

Nick knew who was Allyson's new boyfriend. He want to tell Eugene, but he couldn't because he made a promise to Jarrod, so he lied to Eugene.

"I don't know who her boyfriend is," Nick lied. "You just have to wait and find out.

"All right. Why isn't she interested in us?" Eugene wanted to know.

"Well, She found Nick too loud, and she found me too quiet," Heath said.

"What did she say about me?" Eugene asked.

Heath want to know what Eugene said to Allyson on his first date.

"What did you say to Allyson on your first date?" Heath asked.

"I say I'm going to be a doctor and other things," Eugene said. "Why?"

Heath thought to himself, "No wondered she called him boring."

"Maybe she's looking for a man that has a lot in common with her," Heath said. "Anyway, you don't talk about doctor this and doctor that on your first date."

"Oh, that's why she's not interested in me."

"Yes. I'm sorry didn't work out for you," Heath said.

"That's all right." Eugene left the billiards room so sad. He hoped there was a woman out there for him. He also hoped that Allyson had a sister, so she would be the one for him. Eugene went upstairs to the bathroom to get cleaned up for dinner.

Meanwhile in Stockton.

Jarrod got off the train, then went straight to Mrs. Baker's house. He walked to the house and knocked on the door. Allyson answered the door. When she saw Jarrod standing in front of her she threw herself on him and kissed him passionately.

"Oh, I missed you so much." Allyson was excited to see him.

"Me too. I've got a surprise for you," Jarrod said.

"What?!" Allyson asked happily.

"You have to wait 'till tomorrow. Will you go out with me again?" Jarrod asked.

"Yes, I would love to go out with you again," Allyson said.

"I'll pick you at 6:00 P.M."

"I'll be ready for you."

Jarrod and Allyson kissed again then he left Allyson standing by the door. She watched him 'till he disappeared and wondered what kind of surprise he had for her. She went into the house and closed the door behind her. Jarrod went in the stable, saddled his horse, and left Stockton. He hoped she liked the ring he bought her. He arrived at the ranch and put his horse up for the night. He went in the house and saw his mother in the living room.

"Hello, Mother," Jarrod said.

"Hello, Jarrod," Victoria replied. "You sound so happy. What is it?"

"Yes, I am," Jarrod said. "I bought an engagement ring for my girlfriend. I hope she likes it."

Jarrod showed his mother the ring. She saw how beautiful the ring was.

"She will love it," Victoria said.

"Are you sure?" Jarrod asked.

"Yes, I'm sure," Victoria said. "When are you going to tell Eugene?"

"I'll tell him after my date tomorrow," Jarrod replied.

"All right." Jarrod kissed his mother on the cheek then went upstairs with a smile on his face. Victoria hoped Jarrod would tell Eugene about Allyson. She also hoped Eugene would forgive Jarrod and Allyson for putting him through this.

Will Eugene forgive Jarrod and Allyson?

Part 11

Jarrod came downstairs and saw his family in the living room.

"Good morning, everybody," Jarrod said.

"Good morning, Jarrod," Victoria replied.

"I thought you were going to the dining room to eat breakfast," Jarrod said.

"Breakfast will be ready in a few minutes," Victoria said.

Silas came into the living room and said, "Breakfast is ready."

"Thank you, Silas," Victoria said.

"Well, everybody, I'll see you all later," Jarrod replied. "I'll eat in town."

He left the house, saddled his horse and left the ranch. He arrived in Stockton, and went straight to Mrs. Baker's house. Jarrod knocked on the door. Allyson answered it. Jarrod's mouth dropped when she opened the door.

Allyson told Jarrod, "You're drooling."

"I'm sorry." He wipe his mouth with his handkerchief.

He thought to himself, "She's looks so beautiful, and the burgundy gown she's got on looks good on her."

They went to the Cattlemen's Restaurant and ordered breakfast.

Jarrod told Allyson, "Wait here. I'll be right back."

"Where are you going?" Allyson asked confused.

"Trust me," Jarrod said.

"Okay." Jarrod left the table, and went to the waiter. He asked him if he had any strawberries and whipped cream. The waiter said yes. He gave the strawberries and whipped cream to Jarrod.

"Thanks." He cut one of the strawberries in the middle, put the ring in the strawberry ,then put the whipped cream on top of the strawberry, and walked back to the table to sat down.

"What are - -." She stopped when she saw the strawberry with whipped cream on top.

"Eeeeek," She shrieked. "They're my favorite."

"Me too." Jarrod picked up the strawberry covered with whipped cream, and put it close to her mouth. She bit it and felt something on her tongue. Taking it out of her mouth, she saw a beautiful ring.

"My gosh, Jarrod, it's beautiful," Allyson said happily.

He sat beside her, took her left hand, then kissed it.

"When I first laid eyes on you. I knew you were the one for me," Jarrod said. "I love you with all my heart. You' re my heart and my soul. Will you marry me?"

"Yes! Yes!" Allyson said excitedly.

Jarrod placed the ring on her finger and they kissed passionately. Jarrod paid for the food and walked out of the restaurant. They went to Mrs. Baker's house. Before she went inside the house, Jarrod asked Allyson, "Can you meet me at the ranch, say 6:00 p.m.?"

"I will be there as soon as I mail a letter to my sister, Becca," Allyson said.

"All right." They kissed again, then she went inside the house. Allyson went into the kitchen and saw Mrs. Baker cleaning. Allyson showed Mrs. Baker her engagement ring.

"Oh, my Lord. That's beautiful," Mrs. Baker said.

"I know. I'm getting married," Allyson replied.

"Congratulations."

"Thanks. I have to go write my sister, Becca, a letter," Allyson said. "Then I will be at the ranch. You can come with me if you want to."

"I wish I could, but I can't," Mrs. Baker replied. "I have to go to the ladies' quilt meeting."

"That's all right." Allyson went upstairs to her room and picked up her pen and wrote:

Dear Becca,

How are you? I haven't heard from you for a while. I wish you were here with me. I've got good news. I'm getting married! How exciting is that? I'm engaged to a very special man, and his name is Jarrod Barkley. Anyway, before I forget to tell you, I'm the new teacher in Stockton, California. You've got to come here as soon as you can. I miss you so much.

Allie

She put the letter in the envelope and went outside to mail her letter.

Later that evening, Allyson arrived at the ranch. She stepped down from the buggy and knocked on the door. Silas answered the door.

"Hello, Miss Cooper," Silas said.

"Hi, Silas. Everybody's here?" Allyson asked.

"Yes, they are. They're in the living room," Silas said.

"Thanks." She went into the living room to see the family.

"Hi, everybody," Allyson said.

"Oh, hi ,Allyson," Victoria replied. "Supper will be ready any minute."

Silas came into the living room and said, "Supper is ready."

"Thanks, Silas." They went to the dining room, then sat down to eat. A few minutes later, they went to the billiard's room to play pool. Jarrod got his family's attention.

"May I have your attention, please?" Jarrod said.

"What, Jarrod?" Victoria replied.

"I have something to tell you all," Jarrod said. "Allyson and I are getting married!"

Eugene could not believe his ears and ran out of the room. The family congratulated Jarrod and Allyson. They were so happy for them. Jarrod noticed Eugene was not in the room. He went upstairs to find him.

"I'm sorry, Eugene," Jarrod said.

"You lied to me!" Eugene shouted. "You told me that you weren't interested in her!"

"I know that. I'm sorry about that," Jarrod said. "I knew you were interested in her."

"Oh, you knew," Eugene replied.

"Yes, I knew," Jarrod said. "One day you will find a woman, but don't show your jealousy if the woman shows she is interested in another man."

"I'll try. I'm sorry I yelled at you."

"That's all right, I understand."

"Congratulations."

"Thanks. They hugged each other, and went downstairs to the billiards room. Eugene congratulated Allyson.

She told him, "Thanks."

They gave each other a hug and celebrated Jarrod and Allyson's future wedding.

Will they be back?

THE END