by Nora
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.
It was a beautiful and warm October afternoon. The sun was
shinning and the sky above was blue with only small wisps of white clouds.
There was a slight breeze blowing that kept a freshness in the air. Surely on a
day like this only good things could come to pass.
The young couple was dressed for a special evening on the town. They were an
extremely handsome pair and they turned the heads of many of Stockton's
residents as they passed. The young woman in her lovely rose colored gown, her
blond hair swept up into curls, chatted gaily with the young man as she matched
his stride, her arm linked with his. Her equally blond companion, dressed in
his three piece blue suit, nodded smiling as he took in her excited prattle.
They were to meet their mother and older brothers at the Alehambro Club for a
celebration supper once their business was concluded at the bank.
"I just can't believe it Heath. Jarrod was able to work his magic. It's
only been seven months since the plans for the new orphanage fell through. Yet,
here I am today, signing the final papers so we can break ground next
week!"
"Jarrod's a man of his word, Audra. That was a painful evening for all of
us. But I remember him promising you that he'd do everything in his power to
expedite the process. It helped that Colonel Ashby's widow allowed mother to
purchase the land she originally planned to donate for the orphanage. Did she
know it was Mother's intention to donate it for the same purpose?"
"Yes, the Reverend Nelson told me she felt she had to remain loyal to her
husband and that's why she backed out. But she was deeply humiliated when all
the information concerning his drug involvement was exposed. She has always
been committed to this community and she sold the land to Mother for well below
the market price with the stipulation Jarrod not be openly involved in the
purchase."
By this time the siblings had reached the doors of the Stockton Community Bank.
Heath stopped and turned Audra to face him. Placing his hands on her upper arms
he looked with pride and affection into the blue eyes that matched his own in
their depth and sparkle. His deep voice warm and tender as he spoke to her.
"Little Sister, just know that while Jarrod has done one bang up job, the
real driving force behind this accomplishment is you. I am so very....very
proud of you. I hope those kids and this whole town knows how very hard you
worked and how much of your heart went into making this a success. Now Madam
Trustee, let's get in there and sign those papers before they close the
bank!"
Her eyes filled with tears as she murmured, "Oh Heath I....."
But he just shook his head and smiled propelling her through the door. Holding
out his arm again to escort her to the appointment. "Let's not keep Mr.
Hartley waiting. Besides, we need to get to supper before Nick drinks our share
of the Champagne we ordered for tonight."
* * * * * * * *
The two men in the General Store were making Tom Anderson,
the proprietor a little nervous. Their guns were slung low and they had they
look of gunfighters. From the odor, they had been on the trail for more than a
few days. They appeared a lot more interested in the activity out in the street
than in shopping for merchandise. He had seen them ride in earlier in the
afternoon with three other men.
"Can I help you gentlemen with something?" he asked loudly.
The one with the dark hat pulled down almost over his eyes looked around from
the window, seemingly almost startled...as if he had forgotten there was
someone else there. "Ohh...Ahhh, yeah" he replied, "Give us a
couple of boxes of those shells will ya, and", he glanced at his red
headed companion and shrugged, "also a pound of coffee."
Mr. Anderson filled their order, accepted their cash and watched in relief as
they hurried out the door to meet two other companions, who waited outside.
They looked at the time and headed towards the Cafe.
Pat Dyer was a cold hard man who earned his living selling his services to the
highest bidder. He had a fast draw, an accurate shot, two strong and
experienced fists and very little conscience. He was smiling as he sat across
from the bank on the bench outside the Cafe. It was quarter to five, the bank
would be closing in fifteen minutes.
By his calculations there were six customers and three employees inside the
bank. Mrs. Long, her elderly mother, Anna Tate and the Long children, Andy age
6 and Kelly, age 5 who had entered a few moments ago. They were closely
followed by Heath and Audra Barkley. He noted with interest that Barkley was
not wearing a gun. Then there was the bank president, a teller and a brand new,
young and inexperienced guard. This was going exactly as he had been promised.
As he slowly rose from the bench, he noted his men walking to join him. He felt
the adrenalin surge that always came with this type of job. He noted the
feeling of pleasure as he anticipated the fear his victims would experience and
the power and control he would achieve as a result of the fear. The money was
good....very good....but it was the power, control and terror he would generate
that was the real motivator in his life's ambitions. Slowly, deliberately they
made their way to the bank.
As Heath and Audra entered the lobby of the bank they
received a more than enthusiastic greeting from Andy and Kelly Long. The
children had become huge Heath Barkley fans within the last six weeks and were
delighted to see him walk through the door.
"Boy Howdy Mama!!!, it's Mr. Heath, Oh and Miss Audra", shouted Andy
as he and Kelly lunged for Heath.
Connie Long turned around smiling broadly, "Well Boy Howdy, it certainly
is!", she replied laughing. "It's nice to see you both, what brings
you into town so dressed up?"
"We're here to sign the final papers so they can break ground on building
the new orphanage next week and then celebrate with a family dinner here in
town." replied Audra as she enjoyed watching her brother scoop up the two
Long children into his arms.
Jim and Connie Long were two of the most amiable people Heath had ever met. He
loved spending time with them. Their marriage was clearly an equal partnership
based on mutual respect and affection. They thoroughly enjoyed each other and
their children. While life was not always easy for them physically or
financially, they made the very best of everything life sent their way.
Their farm bordered the Barkley Ranch on the southwest corner and the families
had always enjoyed a cordial relationship. Jim was an excellent wrangler and
when he was in need of extra cash, Nick would hire him to help break horses.
It was just a little over six weeks ago when during one such stint, Jim had
taken a nasty spill and broken his left femur. He would be confined to a wheel
chair for 8-12 weeks. Heath and Nick had set up a schedule where they rotated
with a variety of their hands to help Connie with the chores.
Connie's mother, Anna Tate had traveled from her home in St. Louis to help out.
It was this situation that was most baffling to Heath. How anyone as kind and
considerate and personable as Connie could have a mother like Anna was beyond
his understanding. She was a capable woman who cooked and cleaned and helped to
tend to the children. However, beyond that she was an extremely irritable,
critical, intrusive and overbearing female who freely dispensed her opinions
and advice without the slightest regard to the feelings of those around her.
Connie seemed to have developed the ability to let her mother's remarks roll in
one ear and out the other. However, poor Jim whose lack of mobility placed him
in close proximity to his mother-in-law for most of the day was clearly reeling
from the effort.
Last week Heath had been invited in for dinner. He had taken responsibility for
those chores that necessitated his being close to the house and barn after
Nick's first meeting with Mrs. Tate. Both Heath and Victoria had decided this
was the best arrangement after Nick had burst in the front door of the Barkley
mansion announcing he was going to "rip out the woman's tongue and use it
to poison everyone who had ever irritated him".
Following the dinner, as the woman were clearing the table. Mrs Tate began
criticizing her daughter's "wasteful ways" to her son-in-law.
"Mr. Tate and I could live on what your wife throws away!" she had
exclaimed to Jim.
Without a moments hesitation, in his own quiet way, and with a totally straight
face, Jim had nodded and replied, "Mother Tate, anytime you and dad want
to come and eat our garbage, it's just fine with Connie and I."
Heath had been drinking his coffee and taking in the conversation. At this
remark he aspirated a mouthful and it took several pounds on his back from
Connie before he could breathe again.
Mrs. Tate had initially looked from Jim to Heath suspiciously, but the beatific
smile Jim offered her, assured her of her son-in-law's sincerity. She had
glanced at her daughter as if to say "see even your husband agrees."
As he tipped his hat to Mrs. Tate and tried to hide the amused grin that
accompanied the memory, Heath turned his attention back to Andy and asked,
"So are you two here to open up accounts with all that money you've been
earning doing chores at your farm?"
"Yes sir" stated Andy, as Kelly nodded in agreement. "We have
the money that you gave us to help you with the chores and even more money that
Mr. Nick gave us to not help him with the chores."
"I see" said Heath chuckling softly.
"Mr. Heath, does Mr. Nick pay you to not help him with chores too?"
asked Andy.
"No, Nick takes a more direct approach with me when he doesn't want me
around", confided Heath.
"What do ya mean?", Andy queried.
"Well Andy, you're a big brother, what do you do when you don't want Kelly
around?", Heath prompted.
"Hmmm", Andy pondered the question, "I just double up my fists
and tell her to get lost, and she usually goes pretty quickly if she knows
what's good for her", he whispered his reply in Heath's ear to avoid his
mother's suspicious glance.
Lowering his voice also, Heath explained, "Well, things don't change much
when you grow up and your older brother decides he doesn't want you around. I
leave pretty quickly too, cause just like Kelly, I'm smart enough to know
what's good for me."
Andy considered the response, and smiled knowingly. He then very seriously put
his hand on Heath's shoulder to reassure him and stated, "But sometimes I
really like having her around, and sometimes it's important for me to be there
to protect her. Is that how Mr. Nick is with you?"
Heath's face mirrored Andy's serious expression, "That's exactly how Nick
is with me Andy. And you know what's even better? Someday when Kelly grows up,
you'll find she'll be there to help and protect you. Then just like when I can
do it for Nick, it'll make her feel about ten feet tall."
The poignant scene was interrupted by the arrival of Mr. Hartley who invited
Audra and Heath back to his office.
"We'd better get started on the paperwork or you two will be late for that
dinner your mother told me about." he stated as he held open the gate that
separated the lobby of the bank from the private offices in back.
Audra and Heath quickly said good-bye to the Long's, assuring them they'd be
out to the farm the next week, and accompanied Mr. Hartley to his office.
* * * * * * * *
As Pat Dyer and his men slowly ambled their way across the
street, he directed one of them to circle around to the rear of the bank and be
ready with the horses.
Dyer grabbed the arm of his tallest companion and looked him in the eye,
"Red, I don't want no mistakes this time....the guard is a wet behind the
ears kid. He makes one wrong move and you take him, but with your knife. We can't
afford no gun play, or it'll bring this whole town down on our heads....got
it?"
Red nodded, "What about Barkley, I hear he's fast with his fists and even
faster with a gun."
"You leave Barkley to me", his bossed instructed, "I watched and
he ain't packen today. Besides, all I gotta do to control him is point my gun
at that pretty sister of his. He'll do whatever I say."
"Alright, everyone know what to do?" he asked. His companions all
nodded in response. "Good, by tomorrow we'll all be rich men. Now, what do
ya say boys, shall we go have a little fun?"
"Okay Audra, all you have to do is sign the papers
where I've indicated and Heath can witness." Mr. Hartley instructed as he
laid out the paperwork.
"The account will be audited on Monday and then we can began the outlay of
the capital disbursements for the project. Although we'll still require your
signature on a regular basis, Jarrod will supervise the day to day
details."
Hartley stopped and sighed, " I am truly amazed that we're at this point,
I thought it would take at least a year to reorganize this effort, but here you
are ready to go."
Heath had felt the gnawing begin in his stomach as he followed Audra and Mr.
Hartley back to the office. It was all of a sudden, as if his collar was too
tight or the shoulders of his jacket too confining.
He knew Mr. Hartley did not like him...well that wasn't it exactly, it was more
as if he was disgusted by him. It was subtle, especially when other members of
the family were there. However, Heath had experienced enough disdain and
rejection in his young life to recognize the symptoms almost immediately.
He had once shared his thoughts and observations on this topic with Jarrod, who
to his surprise agreed with Heath immediately.
"I'm sure you're right Heath. He probably views you as an interloper with
very little in the way of a morally legitimate claim to be a part of the
Barkley family. He's officious, small minded and pompous."
"He always manages to look surprised and concerned when I go to the bank
to handle a financial transaction for the family. It's galling, but there's
never enough to call him on it"
Jarrod nodded, "Mother describes him as obsequious and insipid, and I
agree."
Heath cocked his head and raised an eyebrow, "and that means?"
"Sorry, now whose full of himself. It means he fawns all over the rich and
important people in town and that he is all form and no substance."
"He came here as a young man and hotly pursued the wealthy and beautiful
daughter of the owner of the bank. They married and her father died shortly
after wards. She was a very docile and compliant young woman and not overly
bright. Consequently, Hartley jumped in and took over both the bank and his
father-in-law's considerable fortune."
"Convenient", noted Heath.
"Yes and while he's seen as a paragon of virtue in Stockton, I understand
from friends in Sacramento that he leads a very sordid life. His wife has
gained at least a 100 pounds and is a raging alcoholic. He maintains 'nursing'
assistants that keep her confined to their home, and out of the public
eye."
"I also hear he has a very expensive and demanding mistress in Sacramento,
and a significant gambling problem."
"How does he maintain his position?"
"As I said, these are only rumors that exist in a very small circle of
highly influential men. Hartley still wields a lot of power, and he's been
fairly ruthless in the past with people who have crossed him. There has never
been any impropriety associated with the bank, but my guess is he'll trip
himself up eventually"
"Heath, Heath, HEATH!" Audra shouted to interrupt his reverie,
"You need to sign here. Where were you Big Brother?""
"Just daydreaming", he smiled.
As he picked up the pen it happened. There was a deep, masculine cry of pain
accompanied by a woman screaming and children crying.
Heath bolted from the office, ran down the hall and placed one hand on the
railing leaping over it. His heart dropped into his stomach as his eyes took in
the full horror of the situation.
There were four men with guns. Ian McGregor, the 18 year old guard was laying
on the floor with a knife protruding from his chest. A thick, dark pool of
blood was trailing from his back flowing toward the boot of a red headed man
who was leaning over him intent on retrieving his knife.
One of the men was standing behind Connie Long with his arm around her neck and
a gun pointed directly at her temple.
Andy and Kelly had their faces buried in their grandmother's dress, their
little hands clutching the material in an effort to escape the nightmare and
find some comfort. For her part, Anna Tate was standing white faced and silent
with one hand on each of the heads of her terrified grandchildren.
A third man was behind the counter with the teller Steve Taylor, pointing his
gun directly into Steve's chest.
As Heath vaulted the railing he was met with the stock of a rifle driven into
his ribs. He doubled over and hit the floor. A vicious kick to the side turned
him over onto his back. The barrel of the rifle came to rest on his forehead,
directly between his eyes.
"Feeling chivalrous are we Mr. Barkley?"
Robert Hartley and Audra came racing onto the scene. They also abruptly halted
as they took in the carnage.
Without removing his eyes or the rifle from Heath, Dyer hissed in a voice cold
as ice. "Join us Mr. Hartley...Miss Barkley. Both of you walk over slowly
and stand by grandma and the brats."
With a cold, vicious grin spreading across his face, Pat Dyer addressed his
captives. "Now we're all going to remain very calm. You will all do
exactly as I say or we'll gladly spill more blood"
Dyer jerked his head at Red who took two strides and grabbed Audra. He placed
the still bloodied knife at her throat. As the terrified young woman attempted
to swallow the fear rising from her chest, a trickle of blood ran from the
blade of the knife down her throat to her collar bone.
As Heath lay on the floor still reeling from the blow to his ribs he considered
his options. He had been in situations where the odds were against him but this
one had no equal.
There were three women, two children and two other men who had never handled a
gun or thrown a punch in their lives. He was flat on his back with a rifle at
his forehead, face-to-face with eyes as cold and ruthless as he had ever seen.
He had seen a countenance like the one this man presented while at Carterson.
It was from the guards who truly enjoyed tormenting the men under their
control. They were the most dangerous.
Heath tasted the bile from his stomach as it came up into his throat, and knew
he needed every ounce of control, skill and wit he possessed if there was any
chance for survival.
He calmly stared up into the face of Pat Dyer and cleared his throat, carefully
he measured his words and began speaking.
Tom Anderson hadn‘t closed his doors as he typically did at
5:00 pm. He was lingering on the sidewalk outside his store just staring at the
doors of the bank.
A lot of people had entered, including the men who had been in his store
earlier, it was well past 5:00 and no one had left. There was a side door to
the alley that he couldn’t see, but it was hardly likely they would have all
used that one. NO, he didn’t like it one bit.
* * * * * * * *
Nick Barkley had entered the Alehambro Club, and made his
way through the dinning room, greeting several friends and acquaintances on his
way to the table he had reserved for the evening.
The waiter hurried over, Nick ordered a glass of his favorite wine and sat back
to wait for his family. Life was good at the moment. They had sold a large part
of the herd for an exceptional price, the remaining cattle were settled in the
winter pasture. Heath was ahead of schedule breaking the horses for the army
contract.
The harvests on the various Barkley crops had all proved successful and their
wine master was drooling over some new vintage he was planning on releasing.
Yes, tonight would be a celebration for more than one reason.
His musing was interrupted by the arrival of his mother and brother Jarrod.
Nick stood and accepted a kiss from his mother as he held her chair for her.
“I see you’ve started without us.” observed Jarrod, gesturing to Nick’s glass.
“Just a small reward for the brother who does most of the hard work in the
family.” Nick countered.
Oh! Is Heath here already?”
“Very funny Jarrod. By the way how long do you think it will take them at the
bank, I’m starved?”
“I spoke earlier with Bob Hartley and he indicated he had everything all set,
so I expect them shortly. We can order some appetizers while we wait”, Victoria
suggested as she motioned for the waiter.
Before he could reply Nick saw Fred Madden, Stockton’s sheriff striding
purposely to their table. From the look on his face it wasn’t going to be a
social visit.
“Well, Good evening Fred, join us won’t you?” smiled Victoria.
“Thanks Victoria but I’m actually here to interrupt your dinner.”
“What’s the matter, Fred?”
“Well, Tom Anderson had some seedy looking customers in his store earlier this
afternoon. They unnerved him enough that he watched them after they left. They
went into the bank with two other men shortly after Heath and Audra. I also
think Connie Long and her children were in there. It’s twenty after five, the
shades are all drawn and it appears no one has left the bank.”
“Heath and Audra had business at the bank that could easily keep them and
Hartley there after five, but that doesn’t explain the rest.” mused Jarrod,,
his mind racing at the possibilities.
“What are we waiting for, I’ll need a gun, Fred.” stated Nick as he stood up
from the table.
“Now, hold on Nick, we can’t just go rushing in there, there’s too much risk.
We need a plan. Let’s head to my office, Billy is waiting for us and we’ll pick
up other guns if we need ‘em.
Victoria, do you want to wait here or in my office?”
“I’ll come with you, I only hope you’re wrong, because if you’re not………”, she
left her words hanging in the air, the implication to great to continue.
* * * * * * * *
“I’ll do what you
want, just don’t hurt them..
“Very sensible Mr. Barkley. “Now slowly, up on your knees and put your hands
behind your head and lock your fingers.” ordered Dyer.
Heath needed to use his hand to support his ribs as he rolled over and did as
he was instructed. As he knelt up he again took inventory of the scene. He
caught sight of Audra and the knife Red held at her throat. Ian was clearly
dead, his eyes in a fixed gaze at the ceiling.
Connie, Anna and the children were standing along the side wall all deathly
quiet, and all starring at Heath. Both Hartley and Taylor were behind the
teller’s cage with two of the men covering them with guns. He felt so helpless.
It would be one thing to risk his life, but with Audra and the Long family how
could he chance it?
“YOU HARTLEY, open that safe!.”, Dyer commanded, “Stall or play around and I’ve
got seven hostages besides you who’ll be joining the kid on the floor. Dace,
you and Joe have Hartley and the teller fill the bags with money as soon as the
safe is open.”
Without hesitation, the bank president leaned over and began twisting the
combination lock to the safe.
“It’s open!” yelled Dace, barely able to contain his excitement as he directed
Taylor and Hartley to fill the bags with the $150,000.00 in cash the vault
contained.
As Audra watched her brother struggle to his knees, her breathing began to
regulate as her thoughts became more coherent. As she looked again at Dyer’s
face it dawned on her that she had seen him before, but where.
There was something about this memory that was very disconcerting. As Dyer was
speaking to Mr. Hartley the memory returned and Audra gasped as the full horror
of the situation struck her.
Red moved Audra closer to Heath.
“This is a mighty pretty sister you got here, Barkley”, he murmured as his lips
touched her throat and his hand pulled a lock of her hair to his nose where he
sniffed it. “Smells awful good, too.” His hand began moving down her bodice and
over her right breast as he continued kissing her neck..
Audra tried not to react but as his groping became more intimate her breathing
came in staccato little sobs. She looked at her brother and silently mouthed
“OH! Heath.”
He could hardly breathe, the depth of his fury was overwhelming, but he knew he
had to keep his head. “That the only way you can put your hands on a woman, if
you have a knife to her throat? I’ll bet there isn’t enough money in the world
for you to even buy that kind of attention. The way you look and smell, you
must have been spawned by something that wasn’t even human.”
Dyer was watching the exchange with amusement. This could be interesting. He
knew Red was dumb enough to fall for Barkley’s gambit. He just wondered how
ready Heath would be for the physical response.
Connie Long was also watching the exchange. With so much going on it was almost
as if they had forgotten about them. Clearly they saw them as no threat. They
were close, so close to the side door that entered into the alley.
Maybe just maybe she could get at least the children out safely. Her eyes met
her mother’s eyes and she glanced over at the door. Her mother nodded in
agreement and slowly they inched their way toward the door.
With Heath’s words Red has frozen. A look of pure, unadulterated anger came
over his face as he shoved Audra toward Dyer. He raised his foot and kicked at
Heath’s midsection. Heath had anticipated the move and grabbed his foot
twisting it and dropping Red to the floor. He leaped on him and gave him two
quick punches to the head.
“What’s going on over there? yelled Dace.
“Nothing I can’t handle.” replied Dyer. “Just keep collecting that money.”
* * * * * * * *
As Fred and the Barkley’s arrived at the jail, Billy, Fred’s
deputy was waiting for them and they quickly began discussing strategy.
“There’s no way to know what’s happening in that bank with the shades drawn. I
think the only choice we have is for Billy and I to take the front door, Nick
and Jarrod take the side door, and try to surprise them.”
“To be honest, I don’t like it Fred, but I can’t think of anything else so I’m
willing to try it.” Jarrod conceded.
Nick who armed himself and was pacing throughout the conversation, growled
“Let’s just damn do something , because the longer we sit and talk the more
chance there is for them to hurt Heath and Audra. You three ready?”
With this he turned to his mother, brushed her cheek and said, “Don’t worry
mother, we’ll bring them back safely”
“Just see that you all come back safely”
There was nothing left to say, they nodded and headed out the door to the bank.
“We’ll need a way to coordinate our attack if we’re to have
any chance of success. That means breaking in both doors at the same time.”
Jarrod explained as they made their way toward the bank.
The Sheriff nodded, “Look, I’ll have Tom Anderson position himself so he can
see both doors. He can give us a signal when he sees we’re all ready, agreed?”
With this Madden veered off toward the General Store.
“I’ve got a bad feeling about this Jarrod. There are a lot of hostages in
there, most of them women and children.”
“If you’ve got a better idea, lay it out now, Nick.”
“No, No, nothen like that. I just feel uneasy.” He stopped and grabbed Jarrod’s
arm and smiled. “We’ll just do some depending on that famous Barkley luck, and
of course my skill with a gun.”
“Sure Nick,” Jarrod snorted a laugh at Nick’s bravado, “but let’s hope Audra
and Heath are in possession of some of that luck today, because despite your
skill and our luck, they’re the ones who are gonna need it.”
“Okay boys, let’s take up our positions. Tom’ll signal us when we let him know
we’re ready.” With that Fred and Billy moved to the front of the bank with Nick
and Jarrod crouching on either side of the door in the alley.
* * * * * * * *
As the altercation between Heath and Red continued, Steve
Taylor, accompanied by Dace came around from the teller’s cage with two sacks
of money in his hands. After placing the sacks on the floor the pair became
distracted by the fight. Hartley and Joe remained behind the counter continuing
to empty the safe.
As he pulled his fist back to take another punch, Heath felt the barrel of
Dyer’s rifle come to rest at the back of his head.
“Sorry Barkley, but I need him. Get off, now!”
As Heath stood, he caught sight of Connie edging the children toward the side
door. It was a risk, but he knew he needed to continue the distraction if they
were to have any chance. Red remained on the floor, still dazed from the blows.
Heath whirled around and slapped at the barrel of the rifle, “Get that thing
off me!”
The impassive look on Dyer’s face changed immediately. He clenched his teeth
and his eyelids narrowed as he sucked in his breath. He took the stock of his
rifle and drove it into Heath’s midsection; Heath’s knees buckled and he fell
forward. Dyer swung the rifle upward, striking him under the chin and knocking
him to the floor at Audra’s feet. “Heath” she cried and bent down at his side.
Connie saw her chance; she whispered a silent thanks to Heath for the obvious
sacrifice. She leaned over and whispered to the children, “No matter what you
see, no matter what you hear, once you’re out that door, don’t stop running
until you’re safe, understand?”
Andy took Kelly’s hand and they both nodded.
Connie jerked the door open and shoved them through. She and her mother quickly
followed, taking care to stay behind them to block any shots that may be fired.
* * * * * * * *
Tom Anderson had taken off his apron and had it balled in
his hand. Just as he was dropping it to provide the signal, the side door flew
open and the Long children came flying out into the arms of an amazed Nick
Barkley. He scooped them up and ran around to the front of the building, where
he set them down and directed them across the street.
“Tom” he yelled, “Tom! Get them to my mother in the sheriff’s office.” He
turned around to head back down the alley and saw Jarrod tackling Anna and
Connie as the bullets from Dace’s gun came flying through the open door.
Nick leaped over the pile of bodies, entering the bank as Billy and Fred burst
through the front door.
Steve Taylor shoved Dace from behind, upsetting his aim. Nick returned the fire
and dropped Dace immediately.
Red had come to and rolled over pulling his gun and shooting. He managed to
wound Billy in the arm before a bullet from Fred’s gun hit him in the head,
silencing him forever.
Joe came flying around from the safe, shooting wildly. As soon as Jarrod had
untangled himself from Connie and Anna he followed Nick in through the side
door. Together they returned Joe’s fire, riddling him with bullets.
As Dyer took in the scene, he recognized very quickly that he and his men were
now at a distinct disadvantage. Never one for pressing his luck, he grabbed one
of the sacks of money and flew over the railing heading to the back offices.
Still somewhat dazed from the assault, Heath looked up in time to witness
Dyer’s escape. He leaped up, hissed “Stay down!” to his sister and raced down
the hall after Dyer.
Scott Dyer, Pat’s little brother had been holding the horses behind the bank
when the shooting broke out. He followed the instructions his brother had
always left if things were to go awry and dropped the reins of the other
horses. Unnoticed in the chaos, he headed down the alley, toward the cabin they
had been using outside of town.
Heath heard the sounds of breaking glass as he rounded the corner in hot
pursuit of his prey. As he entered Hartley’s office he could see Dyer mounting
a horse in the alley. He leaped through the window, intent on one purpose,
stopping Dyer. He was so intent on his mission; he didn’t hear the footsteps
behind him.
As Audra huddled in the corner, waiting for the shooting to stop, she watched
as Robert Hartley scooped up Dace’s gun and ran by her. He too headed down the
back hallway to his office. The panic this created, drove her to her feet and
she followed. It was as she was about to enter the office that she heard the
shot ring out.
Heath launched himself into the air to knock Dyer out of the saddle. It was as
he left his feet that he felt the white, hot bolt of pain shoot through his
left shoulder. His momentum continued to carry him upward as Dyer kicked his
foot out, planting it in Heath’s chest. He hit the ground on his back, with a
thud.
Audra collided with an apparently distressed Robert Hartley in the doorway of
his office. He grabbed her by the shoulders and shouted, "OH Audra! Audra!
I’m so sorry. I was aiming at that outlaw and Heath leaped into the air. I shot
him, Audra, I shot Heath. I’m going to get Dr. Merar.” With that he ran by her.
Heath was lying on the ground. The impact taking the air out of his lungs and
sending fresh new waves of pain through his shoulder. He knew he was losing his
battle to remain conscious. Dyer was getting away and there wasn’t a thing he
could do about it.
Dyer leaned over in his saddle, cruelly smiling down at the wounded and
bleeding man. “We’ll meet again Barkley…if you live.” With that he kicked his
horse into a gallop and raced down the alley and out of town.
As Audra struggled through the window, the jagged edges of
the glass caught on her dress and impeded her frantic efforts. Once through,
she ran to her brother’s side and dropped to her knees.
“Heath, Heath, open your eyes, Heath” she pleaded as she carefully lifted his
head onto her lap.
He couldn’t determine where he was. It was as if a fog had enveloped him and he
no longer trusted what his senses were experiencing. Everything was in shades
of black and gray. His body felt so heavy and sluggish and the sounds he could
hear were muted and distorted. There was pain and fear and he couldn’t find his
way out.
Then slowly he began to hear the voice calling him. Such a warm, familiar
voice, one he could trust, one he could follow.
As she watched, his head began to move back and forth and his breathing became
deeper and more intense. As his movements and his breaths became more frenetic,
his eyes opened and a low moan escaped his lips. He closed his eyes, clenched
his teeth and swallowed hard as he fought to gain control over the pain.
“Aud…Audra…you…you …okay?”
“Yes Heath I’m fine.”
“And Nick …Jarrod…and the…the Longs, okay too?”
“Yes, all fine. Billy was shot in the arm I believe, but otherwise everyone’s
uninjured, except for you.”
“Dyer…Dyer got away…could….couldn’t stop ‘em”
“HEATH! AUDRA! HEATH!” came the familiar bellow from inside Hartley’s office.
“Out here, Nick! Quickly, hurry, Heath’s been wounded”
Nick was at their side in a moment.
“Hey, Little Brother, I see you’ve had another unsuccessful attempt at playing
the hero.”
Guess I…I need more les…lessons from you, Nick.”
“How bad?” he silently mouthed to Audra.
“I don’t know, help me turn him over, Nick.”
Nick shifted and bent closer, speaking soothingly into his brother’s ear,
“Heath, listen to me Boy, we gotta turn you over and take a look. I’m gonna
roll you toward Audra, OK?”
Heath nodded in response. He held his breath and braced himself for the
inevitable rush of pain, as Nick slowly turned him on his side.
He found the blue suit coat was saturated with blood. “I still can’t see much,
we need to get his jacket and vest off”
Do you have a knife on you, Nick?”
“No, but he does.” Nick replied motioning to Heath, “He keeps it in his right
boot when he’s dressed up.”
“We need more help. Where’s Jarrod?” Audra asked as she retrieved the knife
from Heath’s boot and handed it to Nick.
“He went to get Mother as soon as Hartley told us Heath was hurt, they should
be here any minute.” He answered as he began cutting away at the jacket and
vest.
“Mother, ain’t …ain’t gonna… be too happy with ya,…cut…cutten on my new suit
like this.”
“I got news for ya Heath, you shredded the sleeve diving through that window.
Plus this may come as a surprise, but there’s a hole in the back. So you
wrecked it long before I got here.”
“Shut up! Both of you!” Audra chided as she ripped two long strips from her
petticoat to serve as bandages.
She handed them over to her brother who had successfully removed the suit coat
and vest and was ripping away at the shirt.
“Here, get some pressure on that wound.” She ordered as she looked up to see
Jarrod and Victoria racing down the alley.
“Heath, Oh Heath.” Victoria murmured as she knelt by Audra at her son’s side.
“I’m…I’m…okay, Mother.”
“Yes, yes I can see you are son. As soon as Nick is finished bandaging do you
think we can still keep our dinner reservations?”
Heath sighed, looked up into his mother’s eyes and smiled, “Maybe…I was
exaggerating…a…a little.”
Jarrod, chuckling at the exchange, shook his head and stated. “Howard was in
the bank with Billy when we ran by. He should be here any minute.”
“He’s lost a fair amount of blood and that bullet is still in there. We need to
get him out of this alley and down to Dr. Merar’s office. He can’t do anything
here anyways. Jarrod and I’ll go get some more help to carry him out of the
alley. We’ll also hunt up a wagon or a buckboard. Mother, you and Audra stay
here, we’ll be right back.”
As usual Nick had taken charge, issuing commands and organizing the effort. The
familiarity of the scenario was comforting, especially in the middle of a
crisis. Nick stood, smacked Jarrod on the back and with that the brothers ran
down the alley and toward the street.
“Audra…I’m… I’m sorry for what…what happened in the bank… That man…I never
shoulda…let him…let him…….”
“Shhh, Heath, no, no, you stopped him. You protected me, you always protect me.
I always feel safe with you. Please, don’t think about it anymore.”
Victoria listened to the exchange and again marveled at the relationship her
children shared. It gave her so much pleasure to see the caring and concern,
hear the banter and observe the sheer delight they experienced in each other’s
company.
It hadn’t been all that long ago that Heath had battled his way into the
family. However, once there, he held a position clearly the equal of any of his
siblings.
His need for their love, approval and acceptance was returned in full measure.
His willingness to share in all aspects of family life and responsibility
earned him far more than his initial search for a name. It brought him the
peace and contentment only achieved through a sense of belonging.
Her thoughts were interrupted as she observed him more closely. He was fading
and she knew it. His initial bravado replaced by a gray pallor. He began to
tremble uncontrollably as shock set in from the pain and loss of blood.
“Stay with us, Heath. Keep your eyes open, Son. Nick and Jarrod will be right
back.”
“Can’t…can’t seem to…stop shaking, Mother…so cold.”
Her response was smothered by the return of her other sons accompanied by
Audra’s beau, Carl Wheeler and Dr. Merar.
“Let’s see what we have here.” The physician mused as he bent to examine
Heath’s wound. “Hmm, serious, but not life threatening if we remove that
bullet. Okay, let’s pick him up and move him to Carl’s wagon. Heath, hang on
and I’ll have you back to giving Nick fits in no time.”
Nick was sitting in the kitchen of Dr. Merar’s home, sipping
coffee and waiting. The rest of the family had gone to eat and would bring
something back for him.
He just couldn’t bring himself to leave. He needed to be there during the
operation. As foolish as it sounded, he felt as if it gave him some measure of
control over this whole nightmare.
Even the trip down the alley had been difficult. Nick, Jarrod, Carl and Dr.
Merar had to carry Heath out of the alley as it was too narrow to accommodate a
wagon.
Nick placed himself at the injured shoulder. As they lifted him, he could hear
his brother’s jagged intake of breath. His right hand shot across his body, grabbing
Nick’s suit coat and clenching the material in his fingers. He heard the low
moan of “Ohh Niicck,” escape his lips.
“Hang on Heath, hang on” he whispered reassuringly as they moved as quickly as
possible toward the wagon. By the time they reached it, Heath had slipped into
unconsciousness.
They carefully loaded Heath in the wagon. Nick and Dr. Merar were in the back,
Carl driving and Jarrod beside him. Victoria waved them off, “We’ll walk, just
get him there.”
As they carried him into the examining room, Helen Merar was waiting for them.
She had prepared her husband’s instruments and would as always assist him with
the surgery.
“Put him here” she motioned to the exam table, “on his stomach. Help me get the
rest of his clothes off while Howard scrubs.”
It only took a moment to remove his boots, pants and what was left of his
shirt. He never moved. As much as it bothered him, Nick now found himself
wishing for at least a moan.
“I’ll be out as soon as I finish” Howard dismissed the trio. “But it’s going to
take a while, so go get yourselves something to eat.”
Jarrod nodded, glanced at Heath and sighed, “Okay Howard, we won’t be long.
We’ll also need to speak with Fred; but we’ll make sure we have someone here at
all times.”
With that Jarrod and Carl exited, but Nick lingered. Howard shook his head and
smiled “Go on Nick” he said gently. “ I’ll take good care of him. You can wait
in the kitchen, I’m sure Helen has some hot coffee in there. Help yourself.”
Nick shut his eyes and nodded. The Merar’s watched as he approached the prone
man, put his hand on his head and whispered instructions in his ear. Helen
couldn’t hear what he said, but it didn’t matter. There was a bond between
these two of such intensity, that she was sure Nick reached Heath with whatever
words he spoke.
Nick turned and strode out of the room, spurs jingling in his wake.
As he entered the waiting room, he found it filled with people. Carl was on the
sofa with his arms around Audra, who was nestled into his side. Jarrod was
standing with his arm around Victoria. They were listening intently to Fred
Madden; who had arrived accompanied by the Long family and Steve Taylor.
“Billy’s settled at home with his ma fussing over him. Doc says he’ll be fine
in a few weeks. I also spoke with the McGregor family. They’re taking Ian’s
death pretty hard. Ian’s Pa and brothers are forming a posse for me now; but I
wanted to talk with Audra, Steve and Connie first.”
Nick’s eavesdropping was interrupted by two little tear stained faces. Nick
scared Andy a little. However, he knew from the conversation in the bank that
as Heath’s big brother, Nick protected and took care of Heath, as he, himself
did for Kelly. This connection gave him the courage he needed to approach Nick.
“Mr. Nick, I saw you carry Mr. Heath in here. I know he was bad hurt. Me and
Kelly are real worried about him. Is, is he gonna die like Ian.?”
The room went silent. Nick knelt down on one knee and gently took the small boy
by the shoulders.
“No, no son, he’s going to be just fine. Dr. Merar has to take a bullet out of
his shoulder, but he’ll be back helping me and your daddy at your farm in no
time.”
“That’s real good. You hear that Kelly, he’s gonna be fine.”
Kelly took a deep breath. If Andy could be brave enough to speak to Nick, so
could she.
“You know what, Mr. Nick? Mr. Heath’s a hero. My mama said so. We could never
have gotten out of the bank if he didn’t help. But that bad man hit him awful
hard.”
Nick looked up at Connie Long, who was listening intently to the conversation.
“Heath saw us inching toward the door” she explained. “He baited Dyer and
distracted him long enough for us to slip out, but I’m afraid he paid a price.”
Nick nodded, and even Andy at age six could see the sadness and concern in his
eyes. He also knew he could make him feel better.
“Mr. Nick, Mr. Heath told me that you protect him and take care of him. He also
said he feels ten feet tall when he can help you out.”
“He said that?” Nick smiled encouragingly. “What else did he say?”
“Well,’ Andy mulled over the question. “He also said he could tell right away
when you wanted him to get lost and that he was always smart enough to do it.”
Nick could hear Jarrod and his mother chuckling softly behind him. “He said
that too did he? Well, I might have to talk with him about that one.”
“Okay Andy, I think you’ve given away enough secrets for now.” Connie laughed
as she put her arms around her children and stated, “Why don’t you two go with
Grandma to get something to eat, while I talk with the sheriff.”
“We’ll be back to check on Mr. Heath, Ok Mr. Nick?” Andy reassured him as he
and Kelly left holding on to their grandmother’s hands.
“They’re sure attached to Heath.” Connie sighed as she watched them leave.
“Yeah, with him it happens all the time” Nick mused.
“I’d like to get an account of what happened. Do you all mind going over it
now” Fred requested.
“I don’t mind, but where’s Mr. Hartley” Audra asked.
“He’s still at the bank trying to determine how much cash was taken. That and I
think he’s reluctant to face your family after shooting Heath.”
“Hartley shot Heath” Carl exclaimed. “How did that happen?”
“It’s a long complicated story, Carl” Audra sighed patting his hand. “A very
long complicated story.”
With that they all settled in and Audra, Steve Taylor and Connie Long related
the details of the terror and violence they had experienced and witnessed. Each
related the story from their own perspective, leaving a horrifying impact on
their audience.
“When I saw Mr. Hartley pick up the gun and follow Heath down the hall, I was
concerned and ran after them” Audra explained as she finished her portion of
the story. “You know the rest.”
“Are you saying you were concerned with Hartley’s actions, Audra. Are you
implying his shooting Heath was not an accident” Fred asked incredulously.
“That’s exactly what I’m saying, Fred. And I know I’m going to frustrate you,
but before I tell you why, I’m going to need to talk to Jarrod.”
Fred pursed his lips and blew through them. “You’re right, I don’t like it. But
I know you well enough to know that won’t change your mind. Besides I have
enough on my plate now to keep me plenty busy. You just need to get back to me
by tomorrow, understood?”
“Understood” Audra agreed.
“Just one more question and then I’ll let you all go. How did you all know it
was Pat Dyer?”
“His wanted posters are all over, you can hardly miss them” Connie explained to
Madden as the others nodded in agreement.
With that Fred stood. “The posse will be going out first thing in the morning.
Either of you two interested in joining us” Fred looked at Nick and Jarrod.
They exchanged a glance and shook their heads, “Not until everything is settled
with Heath” Jarrod explained.
“Okay, I kinda figured that. Thanks everyone. I’ll see YOU tomorrow, young
lady” Fred ordered as he pointed his finger at Audra.
Audra nodded in agreement.
“Carl, would you care to join Audra, Jarrod and I for dinner. You’re both
welcome also” she acknowledged to Connie and Steve. “I assume you’re staying
here and we’ll be bringing something back for you” this was directed at Nick,
who nodded in reply.
“I’d love to, Mrs. Barkley” Carl smiled, as he helped Audra up.
“I really need to get the children home, Victoria; but thank you. Please keep
us posted about Heath. He’ll certainly be in our thoughts and prayers.” With
that Connie hugged each member of the family and left.
“And I need to get back to the bank, Mrs. Barkley; but I thank you also.” Steve
replied as he grabbed his hat, and hurried out the door, looking very anxious
to return to his place of employment.
“Well Audra” Nick fumed. “What in thee Hell was that all about?”
“Nicholas” his mother chided. “There’s clearly more to this story than meets
the eye. Give your sister some credit. We’ll have dinner, make arrangements to
stay in town at the hotel tonight and we’ll discuss the topic of Robert Hartley
in private. I’m already concerned about Steve Taylor's’ reaction.”
“I too have a lot of questions and concerns” Jarrod added, with a leveled gaze
at Audra. He then sighed and turned toward his mother. “ I guess I can wait
also, Mother. But like you, I wonder what Steve Taylor is going to say to
Hartley.”
Victoria paused and looked away, the strains of the day showing on her face, “I
know Jarrod. However, our first priority right now is Heath. We need to rest
and eat now, because he’ll be needing us later, understood?”
They all nodded in agreement. Everyone but Nick headed out the door for a late
supper.
“I’ll bring you back something good, Brother Nick” Jarrod assured him.
Nick didn’t have much of an appetite, but he nodded and smiled as they headed
out the door. He then made his way to the kitchen and a much needed cup of
coffee. There he’d hold his vigil. His thoughts were only with one person. His
prayers directed only toward one outcome. But he couldn’t help but smile as
Andy’s words came back to him “Ten feet tall” he repeated, “ten feet
tall..................”
Pat Dyer circled the cabin several times. First in a radius of
a quarter mile, than an eighth of a mile. His experienced eye looking for any
signs of approach from someone other than his brother.
As he directed his horse toward the back of the dilapidated structure, he
softly whistled the signal. He was relieved to see his brother appear at the
door and motion him in.
“You alone?”
“Yeah, Red, Dace and Joe all bought it. If it hadn’t been for Hartley, I’d
probably be dead or at best sitten in a cell myself.” He flopped in a chair,
still holding the bag of money he had stolen from the bank.
Scott pursed his lips and whistled softly, “All of em, dead? I just can’t
believe it. How did we misjudge so badly?”
“We didn’t. Hartley did. He underestimated several people. Not the least being
the Barkley’s.”
“But Hartley ended up helpen ya out, how?”
“Heath Barkley followed me out the window and was about to knock me off my
horse, when Hartley shot him.”
“Is he dead?”
“He wasn’t when I rode out of the alley. I told him we’d meet again if he
lived.”
“Why’d ya do that? You oughta avoid him like the plague.”
“I don’t know...there’s something about him...I can’t puzzle him out. I know
how to control and break most people. But Heath Barkley’s a challenge I still
wanna try.”
“Well, it’s your funeral. More important is what do we do now? I sure am hopen
that bag you’re holden has some spenden cash in it.”
“It does. I’m not sure how much, but from the weight of it, it’s enough to take
care of expenses for quite a while. We’ll just wait to hear from Hartley. I’m
sure he’ll have more work for us.”
“I’m starved kid. You rustle somethen up for supper while I tend to my horse.
I’m sure we’ll see Hartley later tonight.”
Scott nodded as his brother trotted back out the door. He had an uneasy
feeling. If it was his call, he’d hightail it out of the area with the money
they had now. But he knew his brother, and they wouldn’t be going anywhere
until Pat finished his business.
The problem was he didn’t always know what Pat’s business was. Scott was in it
for the money, pure and simple. But Pat, he was always looken for something
else...and this time Scott suspected it involved Heath Barkley.
* * * * * * * *
Hartley was still in his vault. While things had not gone as
planned, he had achieved a couple of his goals. No one would know how much the
bag Dyer got away with really contained. Consequently, Hartley helped himself
to a liberal amount of cash remaining in one of the other bags.
Money and lots of it was always his main desire. He had made some poor
investments when he initially took over from his father-in-law after the tragic
‘accident’ that caused his death. The fortune began to dwindle quickly and he
had been forced to look elsewhere for funds.
Embezzlement had been easy for a man with his ability for figures. He supplemented
with blackmail, illegal drug trafficking, land swindling and anything else he
could press his way into. Colonel Ashbey had assisted him in the narcotics
trade after Hartley found out about Ashbey’s involvement and began blackmailing
him.
He had major expenses. His wife, God! when he thought about her he wanted to
retch. Her beauty had so quickly faded as her obesity and addiction to alcohol
took control. She was a whining, simpering mess. It cost him plenty to hire the
help he needed to keep her in control and out of the public eye.
Then there was his mistress, Deanna. She was so beautiful, so beguiling; but so
cold, manipulative and demanding. He knew she only stayed because of what he
could offer monetarily. He couldn’t break himself from her spell, he needed her
the way his wife needed alcohol.
Who could have predicted that Jarrod Barkley would have pushed the agenda on
the new orphanage quickly enough to be ready to break ground in seven months?
When he embezzled from the account shortly after Colonel Ashbey’s death, he
assumed he’d have at least a year to replace it.
That’s when he’d been caught short. Fortunately, he’d worked with Dyer before
and together they hatched the plan for the robbery. While it wasn’t exactly
successful, there were now far fewer men with whom they needed to split the
money. Also, he was safe from the embezzlement coming to light during the audit
on Monday. The lack of funds would be attributed to the robbery.
There of course was the additional bonus of having shot a Barkley and
thankfully the one he despised the most. Unfortunately, it looked as if he
would live. He would have shot him in the head if he hadn’t leaped up at the
moment he discharged the gun. Oh well, it would keep the Barkley’s distracted
for a while.
He was interrupted by a loud banging at the door. As he went to answer it he
could hear Steve Taylor’s excited voice, “Let me in, Mr. Hartley. Let me in
Sir, please! I really need to talk to you right away!”
Steve Taylor was not a bad man, just a weak one. He had suspicions about his
boss for sometime now. However, he refused to give them any real credence. He
felt he was totally dependant on Hartley for his livelihood and that was enough
to ensure his loyalty.
Hartley opened the door, not disguising his irritability. “What is it that you
want, Taylor? I’m tired and I don’t need any interruptions.”
“I think you better hear me out on this one Sir, Miss Barkley is making
accusations you should be aware of.”
Hartley grabbed Taylor’s arm and yanked him forward, slamming the door behind
them. “What are you talking about” he demanded.
“Well I was over at the Doc’s office with the Barkley’s, Carl Wheeler, Mrs.
Long and Sheriff Madden. The sheriff, he wanted us all to tell the story of the
robbery. Miss Barkley went last and when she finished up, she talked about you
shooting her brother on purpose.”
“Did they take her seriously?”
The Sheriff, he wanted to know why she felt that way. She told him she had her
reasons, but she needed to speak with her brother Jarrod before she told the
whole story.”
“What did the Sheriff do then?”
“He agreed to let it wait until tomorrow.”
“So you don’t know what she’s basing this on?”
“No, the Barkley’s went to dinner together and I raced over here. I think
something must have snapped in her today. Those Barkley’s, they just need to
blame somebody for that fool getting himself shot.” Steve watched as his boss,
now clearly distressed and agitated, paced the floor.
“Alright, alright Taylor. Thank you for the information. I’m sure you’re
correct. Once the family calms down, I’m sure they’ll see the foolishness of
her accusation. By the way, is Barkley going to be alright?”
“Yes Sir, the Doc says it’s serious but not life threatening. He’s removing the
bullet now.”
“Very good Taylor. Now you go along home and don’t bother coming in tomorrow. I
won’t be opening the doors until there has been a complete audit and we
determine how much we lost. I’ll touch base with the Sheriff tomorrow and
straighten this all out.”
Hartley opened the door, encouraging Taylor to leave. He needed to be alone and
think.
“Okay, good night Sir. I’ll be back first thing Monday morning.” Steve Taylor
walked away relieved that he had informed his boss of the accusations. Hartley
was not an easy man to work for, and this would surely prove Taylor’s loyalty.
Hartley placed his hand on his forehead and began sweating profusely. What was
it that damned girl had seen or heard that made her suspicious? Was it anything
concrete or was she just basing it on supposition?
He hadn’t always been careful in the way he had treated Heath. His disdain for
the man getting the better of his typically obsequious behavior. But it galled
him, born on the wrong side of the blanket, but he rode in here one day as big
as life demanding his share. A nobody, a nothing, and the Barkley’s acquiesced.
The boy had never reacted to Hartley’s subtle comments, or feigned looks of
surprise when he came to conduct business for the family at the bank. Hartley
knew Heath noticed it, maybe he had complained to his sister. Rumor was that
they were very close and maybe this was revenge.
He hoped it was that simple. But in case it wasn’t, he needed to find Dyer, and
in a hurry.
* * * * * * * *
As the family entered the Alehambro Club, the owner greeted
them warmly.
“Hello, hello, welcome. We heard what happened at the bank earlier today. I’m
so glad to see you’re alright, Audra, what an ordeal! I’m also hoping you can
give me good news about Heath.”
“Thank you Mario.” Victoria smiled warmly. “Dr. Merar is operating now, but
assures us Heath will make a full recovery. Nick remained with him, so we’ll
want to take something back for him.”
“I know just the thing. A steak, medium rare, with all the trimmings and
chocolate cake for dessert. I’ll see that it’s ready to go when you are. Now
can we seat you?”
"Please Mario, and is the private dinning room available? We need to
discuss the events of the day in a more secluded atmosphere."
"Absolutely Jarrod. Carl, show The Barkley's and Mr. Wheeler to the
private dinning room. Bring them a bottle of our best red wine on the
house." He turned back to Jarrod, offering his hand. "I'll be in to
check on you later."
"Thank you Mario." Jarrod responded warmly, extending his hand in
acknowledgment.
The party was escorted to the private dinning room. Once their orders were
taken and the bottle of proffered wine opened and dispensed, they were left
alone.
"Well Audra I think you had better explain yourself. I know you believe
Hartley to be a cad, but a criminal?"
"Jarrod, do you remember before Mother purchased the land from Mrs.
Ashbey, you told me to stay far away from it?"
“Yes”
“Well as usual I should have listened to you.”
“Explain yourself please, and dispense from the melodramatics” her mother ordered.
“Well, there’s an abandoned house on that land. I had only glanced at it before
and I was wondering whether it was structurally stable. Then we could began
storing items there in anticipation of the move. I checked it out twice and
both times I saw Robert Hartley there with Pat Dyer.”
“Why in God’s name didn’t you say anything?” This time it was an aghast Carl
questioning the penitent young woman.
“I knew I wasn’t supposed to be there. Besides, I didn’t recognize Dyer for who
he was until today. I just assumed Mr. Hartley was still trying to sell the
place for the Colonel’s estate. I’m so sorry.”
“Is there anything else, Audra” Jarrod asked?
“Not really. Just little stuff, like looks they exchanged in the bank. When I
chased him down the hall, I just knew he was really after Heath. Though I can’t
prove that.”
The conversation ceased as the door opened and the waiters began bringing in
the dinner for which the recipients were no longer hungry.
After they finished serving, the staff exited, leaving them once again in
private.
Jarrod leaned back in his chair, cupping his hands behind his head and gazing
at the ceiling.
“We’re going to have to be very careful here. While this is enough to trigger
an investigation, maybe even file formal charges, it’s not enough to keep
Hartley in jail.”
He then lowered his gaze to Audra. “He’s a dangerous man. We’re going to have
to find a way to protect you. Clearly the man has resources, and the cunning to
use them.”
Carl reached out and grabbed Audra’s hand. His blood ran cold as he experienced
for the second time today, the fear of losing the woman he loved.
“I hope you all know you can count on me for help. My men and I are at your
disposal.” He turned and with his other hand brushed Audra’s cheek. “There isn’t
anything I wouldn’t do for you.”
She acknowledged the gesture and leaned over, gently brushing her lips against
his. “I know Carl, I know” she murmured softly.
Victoria smiled briefly, witnessing the tender scene between the two young
people. But like Jarrod and Carl, she was frightened by the implications and
the lengths Hartley would travel to protect himself.
“What’s our next step, Son? Should we share this information with Fred before
we have a plan in place to ensure Audra’s safety?”
“Audra and I can meet with the prosecutor, Dan Rose and Sheriff Madden tomorrow
in private. We’ll discuss our concerns with them. I’m sure they’ll cooperate
with us and wait to take action until we have a plan in place.”
Victoria nodded. “Alright, let’s try and eat. We need to get back to Heath.” As
she went to take a bite of her salad, the fork stopped halfway to her mouth.
“Actually the next obstacle I foresee is explaining all this to Nick. He’s
going to realize Hartley deliberately shot Heath.”
“One powder keg at a time, Mother. One powder keg at a time.” Jarrod responded.
He couldn’t quite place where he was and it was too much
effort to open his eyes. Just trying to organize his thoughts was enough. He
was in pain, he knew that for sure.
His head felt as it was stuffed with cotton. He was lying on his right side and
his left side was bandaged and immobilized. He was so dry his tongue was stuck
to the roof of his mouth. He could hear the soft rhythmic sounds of someone
sleeping not four feet from him.
As his thoughts became clearer, the last twenty four hours came filtering back.
First the bank, then lying on the ground, surrounded by his family. Finally the
memory of the tortured trip down the alley.
He also knew with certainty who was in the room with him. He didn’t need to
have his eyes open for that. It was the same man he rode beside everyday.
Together they worked hard and played hard. They laughed, argued, competed,
conspired and shared their dreams for today, tomorrow and the future.
They never talked about the feelings they shared for each other. They just
shared them and that was enough. Enough at this point for Heath to feel safe,
no matter where he was, just knowing Nick was there.
Besides his thirst, he had other more compelling needs. Ones that would require
some assistance and Nick was the logical and convenient candidate.
“Nick! Nick!” he croaked, his parched throat barely allowing the words to pass.
“Nick, wake up!”
There was a snort and a sharp intake of breath. He sat up and stretched. With
the realization of who was calling for him, he hurried to his brother’s side.
“Heath, you okay? You call me, Boy? Ya need some water?”
“Yeah I do, but first I....you know Nick. I need ta.......”
“Oh, Oh sure” he replied reaching under the bed for the chamber pot that was
stored there. He helped Heath position himself and then gave him as much
privacy as was possible.
“I’ll take that water now if ya don’t mind” Heath requested as they finished
with his other needs.
Nick poured some water and then supported Heath as the parched man attempted to
drain it down. Nick pulled the cup back and laughed at Heath’s efforts to flash
him a threatening look.
“Don’t look at me like that. I don’t fancy wearing it after it comes back up
from you gulpen like that. And that face don’t scare me cause I know you’re as
weak as a kitten. Now I’ll give ya some more as long as ya sip it, like a good
boy.”
Heath nodded his compliance, but whispered softly between sips, “I’ll get
even.”
“Good morning, Boys. I see you’re getting along just fine without me. How’s our
patient Dr. Nick?”
“Irritable, Howard. Irritable and ungrateful.”
Heath just snorted in response.
“Well if you two are at it already, I’m taking that as a good sign. I need to
take a look under those bandages, Heath. Nick, help roll him over on his
stomach so I can check my handiwork”
The two men worked at repositioning Heath. Howard poked and prodded until he
was satisfied with the scope and results of his exam.
“Everything looks pretty good. There’s no sign of a fever. The bleeding has
stopped and the site looks clean and free of infection. They’ll be no permanent
damage and with some exercises, you’ll be as good as new in four to five weeks.
Hurting much, Heath?”
“Not too much Doc” came the muffled reply, as he kept his face buried in his
good arm until he could compose himself.
“Ah huh” came the skeptical response. “Well regardless, I want you to swallow
this laudanum and get some more sleep this morning. Both the Sheriff and your
family will want to speak to you today, so you need to rest. When you wake up,
we’ll try some broth and maybe some soft foods to see how you tolerate them.”
Howard was prepared for the inevitable argument. Just as Heath began his
protest, the seasoned physician interrupted him. “I’ll tell you what Son. You
have two choices. You can either do what I tell you, when I tell you and go
home tomorrow. Or, you can do what you want and remain here for a week, so I
can be sure you won’t do anything stupid.”
Nick began laughing loudly until Howard continued. “Like your brother Nick did
with his last concussion. You were away checking out a mining situation, Heath.
I expressly told him to remain in bed. However, he got up, determined he knew
best. He passed out and fell down the stairs, breaking his arm.”
“That’s how it happened? You told me you were trying to break that stallion I
brought home. Even made me feel guilty I didn’t gentle him before I left. I
oughta.......”
“Well, I got the concussion trying to break him” Nick mumbled.
“Well Heath, what’s it gonna be?”
“We’ll play it your way, Doc.” He scowled at his brother and opened his mouth
and swallowed the two teaspoons of bitter liquid offered to him. It took effect
very quickly and the reluctant patient drifted off into a peaceful slumber.
“Now” Howard turned to Nick. “You march yourself over to the hotel, get cleaned
up, have some breakfast and don’t come back here until you get some sleep.”
Nick began his protest until Howard silenced him. “Don’t argue with me, Nick. I’ve
just about had it. Dealing with one of you is bad enough, but together you’ll
drive me into an early retirement. The next step is to complain to your
mother.”
“I’m going, I’m going” he boomed as he put his hands up and backed out of the
room. “But I’m gonna start bringing my business to Dr. Black if ya don’t quit
given away my secrets to Heath.”
“Dr. Black’s a veterinarian, Nick. However, come to think of it, given most of
your personality traits, you might be better off with someone who is familiar with
mules.”
Nick laughed loudly, grabbed his hat and strode purposely out the front door in
the direction of the hotel.
* * * * * * * *
The rest of the family had returned to the office last night
just in time to hear Howard’s report on Heath’s condition following surgery. It
had all been positive. Jarrod handed Nick his meal, which he was able to
consume with gusto as his concern for his brother was eased.
After dropping Victoria and Audra off at the hotel where Jarrod would join them
later; Carl headed out to the Barkley ranch where Silas packed clothing and
personal items. He would bring these by first thing in the morning, giving him
the opportunity to stay close to Audra.
Nick had made the decision to remain with Heath and there was no arguing with
him.
Jarrod stayed long enough to fill Nick in on Audra’s disclosure of Hartley’s
duplicity in the robbery and shooting of their little brother. This of course
led to the inevitable explosion and litany of curses and threats.
As Jarrod failed to respond to his theatrics in the usual manner, Nick suddenly
calm and suspicious stopped and asked, “What’s up with you?”
“I don’t know Nick. I guess just for once I’d like to be the one ranting and
raving and planning revenge on someone. I get tired of being the voice of
reason. Don’t you think I’d like to beat the hell out of Hartley? My stomach
twisted as we rushed Heath down that alley. He’s my brother too.”
“Sorry Jarrod. I just don’t think sometimes. I’m sure you have the same
feelings. You’re just so much better at handling them, and remaining rational.
I know it’s important we handle this your way. You can count on me.”
As he left for the hotel, Jarrod received the patented Nick Barkley resounding
slap on the back. He now had even more empathy and admiration for Heath who was
the constant recipient of this type of attention from their brother.
He’d also have to remember this strategy. He couldn’t use it frequently, but he
was sure it would be effective when he again felt just too exhausted to cope
with Nick’s temper.
When he reached the suite of rooms he had booked, Jarrod found his mother and
sister had already gone to bed. He entered his room, undressed quickly and fell
exhausted into a dreamless slumber.
* * * * * * * *
It wasn’t quite 8:00 A.M. and while her two cowboys were
swinging on Howard Merar’s last nerve; Victoria Barkley and her other two
children were preparing for the day ahead.
Carl had already been by and dropped off the suitcases Silas had so expertly
packed for them. As they entered the hotel dinning room and joined Carl, Nick
arrived.
“How’s Heath this morning” Audra inquired anxiously.
“Just fine. He was awake and arguing with Howard, who promised him if he took
his medicine, slept and followed orders he could go home tomorrow. What’s our
plan for today?”
“Jarrod is meeting with Dan Rose at 9:00 A.M. Fred left first thing this
morning with the posse to try and track Dyer. Carl is driving Audra and I over
to Ian McGregor’s home. I know his father and brothers are out with the posse,
so we’re going to bring some supplies and hopefully some comfort to his mother
and sister. We’ll be back this afternoon to see Heath and meet with Fred.”
Nick was filling his plate with eggs, sausages, pancakes and hash browns as
Jarrod joined the group. Eying the overburdened plate he asked, “How can you
eat that much this early in the morning?”
“Doctors orders. He told me to eat, bathe and sleep and that’s what I intend to
do.”
“I think he loses weight carrying around what he eats.” Carl laughed.
“I need to keep my strength up.” Nick protested. “With Heath out of commission
I’ll be doing the work of three men. I already usually do the work of two.”
Victoria sighed and shook her head. “Shall we agree to meet at Dr. Merar’s
office at 2:00P.M.?”
She looked around the table as everyone nodded in response. “Okay, it’s a
plan!”
* * * * * * * *
At 5:00 A.M. Hartley rode out to the little cabin to meet
the Dyer brothers. He had to give the signal twice before he received the all clear
to enter.
“Were you both sleeping" he demanded?
“No! Just being careful” Scott snapped. Scott didn’t like Hartley. He knew the
partnership between Hartley and Pat had proved productive for both of them for
sometime now. But he didn’t trust him, he thought he was reckless and
dangerous.
“What’s up, we expected you earlier?” Pat Dyer rolled off the bed he had been
sleeping on and poured two cups of coffee, handing one to Hartley.
“We’ve got trouble. Last night Steve Taylor came to tell me Audra Barkley is
making noises about my shooting her brother on purpose. She apparently alluded
to other information she had but wouldn’t elaborate in front of Taylor or the
Sheriff until she spoke alone with Jarrod. I don’t know if she’s just angry and
bluffing, or she has some real knowledge of my involvement.”
“Either way it ain’t good. What do you want to do about it?”
“I’m going to wait and see how real the threat is. I still have some very real
influence in this town and some powerful allies around the state. It’ll take
more than a few insinuations to bring me down. However, if she has something
concrete, she’ll have to disappear. That’ll be your task.”
“It’ll cost ya. Bringing down a Barkley is dangerous work.”
“There should be plenty in that bag you grabbed yesterday at the bank. Have you
counted it yet?”
“Yep, there’s almost $40,000. Your half is over there.”
“I’ll only need $10,000.00. There’s no way they can determine what you took. So
I helped myself to some from the other bag. Consider the other $10,000.00
payment for your continued services.”
“Fair enough. We may have to move from here if a posse gets too nosy. How
should I get word to you?”
“Use Scott, nobody has his description. Just make sure you stay out of sight.”
With that he reached over and took $10,000.00 in cash from the sack on the
floor. “Easy money huh?”
“I betchya Dace, Red and Joe don’t think so.” Scott responded.
“Tell your brother he needs an attitude adjustment. With those three gone,
there’s more for us. Stick with me kid, you’ll be richer than you ever
imagined.” As Hartley opened the door to exit, he turned back around. “Oh,
unfortunately it looks like Heath Barkley is going to live. He’s quiet but
dangerous, he’ll be looking for you, Pat.”
“And I’ll be waiten for him, and looken forward to it.”
Hartley shrugged in response, and left. He hoped Dyer knew what he was doing.
Dan Rose, the district attorney stepped out from behind his
desk extending his hand to Jarrod as he walked into the tastefully decorated
office.
“Good morning counselor. I have a nasty suspicion that from the urgency of your
request, this is going to provide me with another Barkley challenge.”
Jarrod grinned. “Good morning to you, Dan. I hear that lovely wife of yours is
pregnant again. Congratulations, with the twins, this will be number four?”
“Oh, oh I see. We’re going to exchange social pleasantries first before you
provide me with another legal headache. Then yes, we are happily expecting our
fourth. We’re hoping for a girl this time. I tell you Jarrod, parenting is the
greatest occupation on earth. Just hearing that excited chorus of, ‘Daddy’ when
I walk in the door at night, makes life worthwhile.”
“I envy you Dan.” A shadow passed over his face as his thoughts turned to Beth.
“I know it must still be tough, Jarrod. But I know it’ll happen for you.” Dan
sympathized and then looked up with a mischievous smile. “Carol has someone
lined up right now and I’m supposed to invite you to dinner some night to meet
her. She’s a pretty good judge of character.”
Jarrod let go of as much of the pain as he could and grinned. “You’re on, just
let me know when.”
“Now how can I help you?” He asked motioning Jarrod to a chair and seating
himself across from him.
“I’m assuming Fred has filled you in by now on the details of the bank robbery
yesterday afternoon. How it was Hartley that shot Heath, as he was aiming for
Dyer.”
“Yes of course. That reminds me. How’s Heath doing? Fred indicated he’d make a
complete recovery.”
“He’s doing fine. Howard’s letting him come home tomorrow. The problem is
Audra.”
“Audra?”
“Last night she told us that she witnessed two separate meetings prior to the
robbery between Hartley and Dyer. She saw them while she was riding by that old
abandoned house on the Ashbey property. She never placed Dyer as an outlaw
until the robbery yesterday. She believes Hartley deliberately shot Heath to
allow Dyer to escape.”
“Wow! Of all the people, Robert Hartley. I’ve never liked the man. I’ve seen
him deal pretty harshly with a lot of people here in Stockton. Especially those
with limited resources. However, as far as I know he’s always conducted
business within the law. Is there any other evidence?”
“No, nothing concrete anyways. I’m far from a rumor monger. But over the years,
information has come my way from some fairly prominent acquaintances in San
Francisco and Sacramento. It seems Hartley has a very expensive mistress in
Sacramento. Outside of Stockton he’s known as a big spender and has sustained
some heavy losses gambling in Reno. He’s also indulged in some fairly risky
speculation on the stock market.
Dan leaned forward in his chair. His face mirroring the concern and anxiety he
was clearly experiencing. “Go on Jarrod.”
“Dan, if he helped to plan that robbery, he did it when he knew Heath and Audra
would be in the bank. If he’s desperate enough to rob his own bank and risk
shooting my brother in the back to cover it up, then what lengths will he go to
in order to silence Audra?”
“I share your concern, Jarrod. I can file charges. But you know he’ll make
bail. There’s no way I could see he remained behind bars, with just Audra’s
testimony as evidence. Besides, it sounds like he doesn’t do his own dirty
work. He hires it out to some pretty dangerous men.”
“That’s why I’ll need a little time. Enough to get Heath home and settled and
devise some sort of plan to ensure Audra’s safety. The problem is Hartley may
be suspicious already. Audra alluded to her concerns in front of Steve Taylor
and I’m sure he’s already alerted Hartley. What do you think?”
“Well...fortunately it’s Saturday. I’m due to be in court all day Monday and
Tuesday. I could take Audra’s deposition on Wednesday and file formal charges
on Thursday. That would give us about five days. Will that be enough time?”
“It’ll have to be.” Jarrod stood up and extended his hand. “Thanks Dan, I knew
I could count on you.”
“No problem, Jarrod. But I have a feeling this is going to be a bumpy ride for
both of us. By the way, how’s Nick taking all of this?”
“Well, let’s see. Heath has been shot, something Nick takes very personally. In
addition, it means Nick will be running the ranch on his own for the next
couple of weeks. Now we’ll be facing the prospect of Audra’s life being
threatened. You grew up with Nick and I, what do you think?”
“I think you and your lovely mother will have your hands remarkably full,
counselor. Now if you’ll excuse me, I’m going home to spend sometime with my
wife and children. Because after Thursday, I have a bad feeling my life will
not be my own. Can you bring Audra to my office on Wednesday at 10:00 A.M.?”
“We’ll be there. Will you need to speak to Heath also?”
“Probably, but we’ll give him a little more time to recover. I’ll also fill
Fred in on everything. Give my best to your family. You’ll be hearing from us
soon with that dinner invitation.”
“I’ll be looking forward to it. Thanks for everything, Dan. I know this is
going to be an extremely difficult case. But I also know, there’s no one in
whose hands I’d rather be leaving this. “
The two men shook hands again and parted. Each with a renewed sense of respect
for the other. Each with a determination to not let the other man down.
At the same time Jarrod was leaving Dan’s office, Victoria and Audra were
leaving the McGregor home.
“I had no idea Mr. Hartley had just fired Phillip Martin as his guard the week
before the robbery, Mother. Mr. Martin has been the guard at the bank for as
long as I can remember and has always been held in high regard. I think this is
just another indication of Hartley’s guilt.”
“Shhh Audra. I agree but let’s not broadcast it until we’ve spoken to Jarrod.”
“I’m sorry Mother. It just made me feel so bad to see Mrs. McGregor and Heather
grieving so. Heather and Ian were so very close...like...like Heath and I. I
can only imagine what I’d be feeling if Heath had been killed.”
“I know Audra, I know. I was having the very same thoughts. We’ll stay in close
contact with them. They’re going to need our friendship and support to help
them through this ordeal.”
“Thank you, Carl.” Victoria acknowledged as he helped the two woman into the
carriage.
“Mrs. Barkley, after I drop you and Audra off at the hotel, I’m heading back to
my ranch. There’s a few chores I’ve been neglecting these past two days. I know
you’ll be bringing Heath home tomorrow and I’m sure Nick and Jarrod could use
some help with that. I can pick Audra up for church in the morning. That way
I’ll be available to help when you’re ready to go.”
“We’d really appreciate that Carl. Unless we get word to you otherwise, just
assume that’s the plan.”
It was a short trip back to the hotel. Victoria climbed down and smiled up at
the young couple. “Take your time saying good-bye, Audra. We’ll have lunch and
then go to see Heath. Carl, there aren’t words to express my gratitude for your
assistance these past two days. I hope you know how much it’s meant to all of
us.”
“My pleasure ma’am. I’ll see you tomorrow.” Victoria nodded and walked into the
hotel.
Carl turned to face Audra and took her hands in his. “Audra, you know how much you mean to me. You know how very much
I love you. I can’t imagine my life without you. I’m frightened Audra.
Hartley’s a dangerous man! Please, please don’t take any chances.” As he
finished, he took her into his arms. Tenderly he placed his lips on hers, as
she responded, he tightened his embrace and deepened the kiss.
She broke from his embrace and anxiously looked around. “Carl, we’re in the
middle of town.”
“Ya didn’t seem to mind.” He whispered softly.
“I didn’t.” She smiled returning his whisper. “But you know my brothers. I’d
better go, I am anxious to see how Heath is doing. I’ll see you tomorrow?”
He nodded, jumped down and reached up, grabbing her waist and lifting her slim
form from the carriage. She felt so good in his arms. His plan was to propose
this Christmas Eve, with a Spring wedding. He wondered now if he could wait.
She leaned in and kissed him again. “I’ll be ready in the morning. I’ll meet
you here in the lobby for church, okay?”
“Okay,” he responded and after one last longing look, he climbed back into the
carriage and headed for home.
Audra entered the lobby to find her mother and brothers waiting for her.
“That was an interesting scene.” Nick chided.
“Actually, what that was, was none of your business.” She replied.
“Shall we go to lunch? Then we can head over and see if Heath is awake.”
Victoria interrupted, rescuing her daughter from further interrogation.
Luncheon conversation consisted of a lecture from Nick on the impropriety of
kissing in the middle of Stockton’s busiest street. When that fell on deaf ears
and failed to get the desired reaction from Audra, he changed topics.
“Mother, don’t you think you should talk to Heath about his actions at the
bank. I mean how reckless he was. You know, baiting those men and chasing
Dyer.”
“Why Nick? Can’t you amuse yourself at Heath’s expense without my
participation?”
“Well no, not really. Like Audra, he tends to ignore me when I try and give him
a bad time about these things. But he never ignores you, and I think I have a
good point.”
“Come on Nick.” Audra protested.” First he was rescuing me, then the Long’s and
finally trying to stop a murderer. What would you have had him do?”
“A fair question, brother Nick.” Jarrod observed. “Besides, these gambits
usually backfire on you.”
“Not this time, Jarrod. The point is he was being reckless and we at least need
to point it out to him.”
“Alright Nick.” His mother sighed. “We can at least mention it to him.”
* * * * * * * *
Heath awoke feeling somewhat less disoriented than in the
morning. The pain was less intense and he found himself more than interested
when Helen Merar brought in a bowl of chicken broth.
“Thanks Mrs. Merar, you too Doc.” Heath smiled as the couple propped him up
against the pillows and steadied the mug of broth in his right hand. “I really
appreciate all the fine care you’ve given me.”
“All the thanks I’m interested in young man is for you to follow doctors orders
and get back on your feet. Is it a deal?”
“It’s a deal, Doc. I promise.” He agreed and then began sipping the broth,
which tasted better than he could ever remember. As the door opened, he looked
up to see his family entering.
“There was no one out there and we could hear your voices so we came back here,
I hope you don’t mind, Howard.”
“Not at all, Victoria. Not at all. As you can see, he’s awake and ready I think
for some company. Helen and I will be in the kitchen when you’re done. Then we
can discuss the plans for his going home and for his recovery. I know you’ll
see he won’t overdo it.” Howard smiled as Helen walked over, and hugged
Victoria. The couple then left the family to visit in private.
“I’m mighty glad to see all of ya. Wish there were words...words that said how
much I ahh....” Heath swallowed hard and looked up at his mother, who quickly
rescued him.
“No need, Son. No need. We all feel the same way. But there are a few things we
need to discuss. Some details that have come to light since yesterday that you
need to be made aware of.”
“That’s right!” Nick virtually shouted. “Like some of the decisions you made
during that robbery yesterday. Baiten them men the way you did. Then totally
disregarden anything sensible and chasing an armed man down the hall, when you
weren’t wearen a gun. What do you have to say for yourself?”
“Well first, he wasn’t the one who shot me, Nick. By the way, I’ve been
wonderen, who did shoot me?”
“We’ll get to that later, I ASKED, what do you have to say for yourself.”
Heath bent his head and looked contrite.
“Oh for Pete’s sake, Nick. Let’s do this later.” Jarrod retorted irritably.
But he needn’t have worried. Heath was more than ready for his brother. It was
a familiar tactic and it was so easy to counter.
Heath slowly raised his head, looked at his mother and began. “There is
somethen, somethen I should say to you about yesterday, Mother.”
Here it comes thought Nick, he’s gonna look all down in the mouth and start
apologizen and get clean out of any lecture their mother would give. That’s why
Heath’s next words took Nick totally by surprise.
Heath looked over at Nick, shook his head and sighed deeply. “Nick totally
ruined the new blue suit you just bought me. I tried to stop him, but he cut it
to pieces. Now I won’t have nothen to wear for that party you’re given at
Thanksgiving. I’m sorry, Mother.”
Jarrod quickly placed his hand over his mouth to keep from laughing out loud.
It would work, it always worked. Any number of times, the focus would be on
Heath, and in a second he could step aside and there would be Nick in his
place, sputtering and fuming. Busy ranting and defending himself and totally
forgetting his initial intent to needle Heath.
Audra just remained silent, unable to speak and still hide her amusement.
Victoria, the consummate actress played along, it was just too hard to resist.
“Oh Nicholas!”
“WHAT! WHAT! How did I get to be the bad guy. Besides it was Audra who handed
me the knife. I can’t believe this, I just can’t believe it. Practically save
his life in the alley and this is the thanks I get.” He began pacing, gesturing
wildly, the jingling of his spurs matching the agitation of his movements.
For a moment there was silence. Then the laughter began in earnest. Nick
realizing the joke was on him, turned red and then began laughing at himself.
“Alright, I surrender. You win, Heath. Jarrod warned me I’d get burned, but I
didn’t listen.”
Nick crossed the room to stand in front of Heath. He reached up, running his
hand through his unruly hair. “But you do scare me sometimes, little Brother.
There’s a whole lot of life ahead, a whole lot of good times and bad times,
worken times and playen times. I’d prefer ya be beside me during all of them.”
“I know ya would, Nick and so would I. You can always be sure that’s just what
I intend to do.” Then breaking the tension of the emotional scene he queried.
“But what else I’d like to know is, who shot me?”