A Haunted Child

Part 4

by sharie05

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.

Taking the canteen Jessie left for him, Nick bent down with it next to Heath’s head. "Come on little brother, I need you to drink some of this," he said placing his hand under Heath’s head and lifting it up.

Heath, cried out as Nick moved his head. He immediately began having dry heaves as wave after wave of nausea passed over him. His body began to shudder as he desperately tried to get air into his lungs. Between his battered ribs and the nausea he just couldn’t take in enough air. His dire need for air was overwhelming, his mouth opened and closed as he tried to suck in air that just wouldn’t come.

Nick was aghast at how quickly his brother’s condition turned. "Heath, take it easy," he said calmly as his brother struggled for air. Nick tried to hold Heath up against him allowing his rib cage to expand more, "Heath, please you have to relax."

Heath’s world spun around him at phenomenal speed, his heart raced as he continued his struggle. Opening his eye he tried to look up at Nick but found it impossible to focus on anything. It felt as though his lungs would burst at any moment, panicking as his body screamed for air Heath tried to twist away from Nick.

Nick wasn’t prepared for his brothers sudden burst of energy and Heath landed on his side next to a stunned kneeling Nick.

"Heath!" Nick cried as he tried to catch his brother, as Heath landed in the dirt, Nick saw the ugly wound in the back of his head. Looking down at his own hand he saw it was covered with blood. "How could I have missed it," thought Nick as he cradled his unconscious brother in his arms. Tears flowed down his face as he wrapped a bandage around the gash, "I’m sorry little brother, I’m sorry I wasn’t there for you." Nick cried as he looked at his brothers pale complexion. "At least he’s calm now," thought Nick as he held Heath close checking on his breathing.

Nick took a moment to look at the scene around him; Matt’s body lay just off to his right. The man’s black eyes still staring straight up at the moon, his mouth hanging wide open. The big man was laying in a heap up by the now dying campfire, "I really should get some more wood," thought Nick as he looked back down at Heath who remained cradled in his arms. "But I’m scared to death to move him," he cried. "Hang on little brother, just hang on. Please God I can’t lose him, I just can’t"


Anna had to hold Jessie tightly as the wagon made it’s way through the field as he was practically jumping out of his seat. "We have to go faster!" he cried as he tried to will the team on faster.

"Jessie we’re going as fast as we can, the wagon won’t be any good to Heath if we lose a wheel," replied Jarrod as he looked over at Anna. The expression on her face was one of sorrow, Jarrod’s heart went out to her. Here she was helping his family and a child she just met while facing unknown danger.

He’d liked Anna since the first moment they met; he saw immediately how well she and Heath complimented one another. He was very proud of his little brother; he’d come such a long way since first coming to the ranch two years ago. And now just when everything was finally going his way this whole business with Hank had come about. Now his little brother was fighting for his life out there somewhere.

Nick could hear a small voice calling out to him as he sat cradling Heath. As the wagon drew nearer he made out Jessie’s voice, "Nick! We’re back! I brought Jarrod!"

A smile crossed Nick’s face as Jessie came running across the camp at full speed towards him. "Nick is he…." Started Jessie as he landed on his knees next to them.

"He’s hanging in there kid," smiled Nick as he looked at the frightened expression on Jessie’s face.

Jessie reached up and put his hand on Heath’s cheek, "I told ya I’d be back Heath, I brought the doc he’ll fix you right up good as new," he said quietly; his eye’s never leaving Heath’s face.

"Nick!" Shouted Jarrod as he made his way around the campfire. "How is he?" he questioned as he bent down to check on Heath.

"It’s bad Jarrod," stated Nick as he looked up at his older brother noticing the shock in Jarrod’s eyes as he continued to stare at Heath.

"Heath, it’s Jarrod," he said gently as he placed a hand on his brother’s shoulder. Jarrod was shocked at Heath’s condition, "how could someone look this bad and still be alive?" He wondered. He looked so pale and lifeless and his breathing sounded dreadful. "Howard! Over here!" Shouted Jarrod as he motioned for the doc.

"Anna," exclaimed Nick as he looked over to see the young woman kneeling next to him.

"How are you Nick?" Anna asked as she placed her hand on his cheek. She could see the anguish he held in his eyes for Heath.

"I’m all right," he replied as he looked down at Heath. "I’m glad you’re here Anna, I think it’ll help him.

Anna smiled at Nick and kissed him on the forehead as he sat holding his little brother. "Nick let me hold him for a while," Anna stated as she moved closer to Heath.

"I’m afraid to move him," Nick replied.

"We’ll take it slow," she said.

Nick looked in Anna’s eyes and saw the anxiety in them. "He has a serious head wound, the last time I moved him he became ill," replied Nick as he slowly started to slide out from under Heath so Anna could take his place. As the two changed places they managed to keep Heath from moving much at all. He only let out one small groan as they switched places.

With Heath’s head now resting in the nook of Anna’s shoulder, and his body still elevated, his breathing was a little easier. Anna rested her head next to Heath’s and spoke quietly to him as the Doctor started to examine his wounds. "You listen up Mr. Barkley," she whispered quietly in his ear, "The doctor is here to take care of you and I need you to cooperate with him. Let him do his work, you do yours and lie still. You’ve got a whole bunch a people here pulling for you."

Heath was starting to grow restless as Doc Merer poked and prodded his injuries. Through the pain Heath could hear someone talking to him, the voice was so familiar and soothing he had to find out who it was. Fighting the pain and fatigue he felt he slowly opened his good eye a crack.

"Welcome back Mr. Barkley," Anna smiled as she kissed his cheek. "You don’t have to say a word Heath, just lay back and let the doctor finish." Anna added quietly as she held on to him tightly.

Heath wanted to hold her, his heart longed to reach out to her. He wanted her to know how much he loved her, how much he needed her. But his exhausted body and damaged mouth just wouldn’t let him.

Anna felt Heath tense up in her arms as he tried to talk. "Heath love, please don’t try and talk. I all ready know what you’re trying to say and I love you just as much," she said as a tear rolled down her cheek.

For the first time all evening he relaxed as he lay in her arms, the pain seemed far away as he was lost in her love. A tear slowly rolled down his face as he felt her breath on his cheek and felt her arms around him holding him tight. He never wanted to lose this feeling; it had been so long since he’d felt such love.

Anna held onto him as her heart ached, she had to hold herself together, it was the only way she’d be able to help him. But it was so hard he was in such terrible pain. She didn’t know how long she could hold out seeing him this way. How could anyone do such things to someone she loved so much. Trying to relax both herself and Heath she quietly started to hum an old Irish tune her mother used to sing to her as a child.

Nick looked up at Anna as he heard her gentle voice; he saw the way Heath relaxed in her arms even while the Doc cleaned his wounds. "What are his chances?" Nick asked Howard quietly.

Standing up he motioned for Jarrod and Nick to follow him. Away from both Heath and Anna, Howard told the brothers about Heath’s grave condition. "I’m afraid it’s not good, first off the wound to his leg is a serious one. The bullet appears to be lodged in the bone. I’m also concerned about the knife wound in his abdomen; I think it may have penetrated his spleen or worse lacerated his diaphragm. His head wound it yet another matter, not to mention all of the blood he’s lost."

"What does all that mean?" Asked Jessie as he stepped out from behind Jarrod.

"Well son," stated the doctor as he bent down and took Jessie’s hand. "That means your friend Heath is going to need an operation in order to get better."

"But he will get better, right?" Piped up Jessie as the concern in his voice came shinning through.

"That’s what were hoping for son," replied Howard. "Now why don’t you go and get an extra blanket for Heath from my buggy, OK?"

"Sure," Jessie replied as he quickly ran off.

"Nick, Jarrod, I have to be honest with you. I’m not sure Heath will pull through an operation right now. In his weakened condition it just may kill him." Stated Howard as he watched the blood drain from their faces.

"But if we do nothing he dies any how, right?" Asked Nick, placing his hands on his hips.

"That’s right, Nick." Replied Howard.

"Howard," said Jarrod as he walked up to the doctor and laid a hand on his shoulder, "tell us what you think we should do, how can we help Heath."

Howard looked at both Nick and Jarrod when he spoke, "I need to first off fix his spleen, it’ll have to be done here. We can’t afford to move him now so we’ll have to make him as comfortable as we can where he is. Nick I know you’ve given him blood before and I may need you to again."

"I’m not going anywhere," replied Nick as he smiled at Howard.

"All right then let’s get things set up. Nick, can you tell Anna what needs to be done? I’m going to need her help controlling Heath, this is going to be very painful for him." He said as he took Nick aside for a moment.

"She’ll be fine Doc, she’s mighty attached to that little brother of mine." Nick replied as he started towards Anna.



"Mrs. Barkley is there anything else I can do for you Ma'am?" asked David as he and Claude stood by the open front door.

"We'll be fine now David, thank you for everything," replied Victoria as she saw David and Claude out.

"You're welcome Mrs. Barkley, if you need anything we'll be right over in the bunk house." Said David as he and Claude made their way back towards the bunkhouse.

Victoria closed the heavy wooden door and stood quietly in the foyer a moment collecting her thoughts. This evening had started out so well, it was scary to think how fast things had changed. Her sons, who had all earlier been safely at home, were all now out there somewhere with those horrible men. And Heath, they had taken Heath. The man they had tried to help was responsible for his disappearance, he had laughed about that fact until the very end. He'd been delighted to see the fear on their faces even as he lay dying. And Jessie, that sweet little child was now missing also. Her heart went out to him as she remembered hearing his anguish filled cry upon learning Heath was missing.

Climbing slowly up the grand staircase she made her way back into the spare bedroom. "Silas, I can take care of that," stated Victoria as she took the clean linen out of his hands. "You should go and get some rest."

"It's no trouble at all Mrs. Barkley," replied Silas as he helped her change the bed. "Besides it's you who should be getting some rest, I expect those boys are gonna be needing you when they get back."

Victoria stopped what she was doing and looked over at Silas. He had been with them for such a long time now but he could still amaze her. She could see in his eyes how nervous he was over this whole situation. She knew he loved all of her children but he had a special place in his heart for Heath. "Silas," she said as she walked around the bed and placed her small hand on his shoulder, "Nick will find him, he'll be all right, he has to be." She stated as a tear fell down her cheek.

"I know Mrs. Barkley, themes' mighty fine boys you have. And that Mr. Nick sure does love that boy." Replied Silas as he continued to pull up the bed sheets.

"Thank you Silas," stated Victoria as she watched him tuck in the bedspread. "I had better go and see how Audra is, I'll help you with the dirty linen when I return."

Before Silas could get a word out, Victoria was out the door and walking down the hall towards Audra's room. "Audra, may I come in?" Victoria said as she knocked on her daughter's door. "Audra?" she stated again upon hearing no reply. Opening Audra's door, Victoria found her room empty. "Audra!" Shouted Victoria as she rushed down the hall heading for the main stairs.

"I'm in here Mother," came Audra's reply from inside Heath's room.

Victoria opened the door to her youngest son's room and found Audra making his bed. There were clean sheets and extra blankets stacked on a chair, and fresh water in the basin with extra towels on hand.

"I didn't mean to worry you Mother I just wanted everything to be ready for Heath when he comes home." Said Audra, her voice cracking. "I've already finished changing Jessie room," she added as Victoria gave her a hug.

"Audra you need to get some rest," stated Victoria as she held Audra out in front of her.

"Oh Mother I don't think I could sleep, if I sit still I'm afraid I'll...." She began as the tears started to form in her eyes.

"All right sweet heart, I'll be downstairs giving Silas a hand if you need me." Stated Victoria as she hugged her daughter again before leaving Heath's room.

Walking across the hardwood floor, Audra stopped in front of Heath's dresser. There on top of the dresser was a picture of Heath and his Mother when he was just a boy, next to that was the family portrait Mother had taken of the family before last Christmas. Audra saw the same happy expression on Heath's face in both pictures; his eyes were sparkling and so alive. Audra remembered back to Heath's first few months with them, his eyes had been so clouded then. He almost never smiled or joked with the family, but once he started to find his way the cloud lifted from his eyes and he found his place in all of their hearts. "Please Heath, you can't leave us now. I need you big brother." Audra cried as she held his picture in her hands. "Please lord we all need him."



"Jarrod, I'm going to need your help. It's going to be messy and extremely difficult on Heath. Do feel you'll be able to handle it?" Asked Doc Merer as he stood facing Jarrod.

"Just tell me what to do Howard," answered Jarrod as he looked over at Heath.

"OK, first we need all the light we can find; we should also build a fire a little closer to Heath. It should help warm him and it will give us access to hot water for my instruments." Replied Howard.

"Doc, here's the blanket you wanted me to get. Should I take it over to Heath?" asked Jessie as he stood in front of Howard holding the blanket.

"Yes Jessie, why don't you do that. Then can you get us some more firewood? I'm going to need your help keeping the fire going while I help Heath, all right?" Said Howard as he watched the small boy closely.

"OK," came the small almost disappointed reply. Jessie left the doctor and raced over to Heath. Anna was still holding him and Nick was kneeling down next to her talking. Kneeling down next to Heath, Jessie placed the extra blanket over him gently. "There you go Heath, I brought another blanket to keep you warm." He said quietly next to Heaths ear. Jessie could hear Heath's ragged breathing and looked up at Anna.

Anna could see the fear in Jessie's eyes as he looked up at her, "thank you Jessie, I know the blanket will make Heath feel better." She told him trying to cheer him up some.

"Nick, can I see you a moment?" Stated Jarrod as he walked towards them.

"I'll be right back Anna, holler if you need anything." He said standing up to meet his brother.

Leading Nick away from Anna, Heath, and Jessie, Jarrod filled him in on what Howard needed. "Nick, we need you to keep Jessie occupied. Howard doesn't feel he should see the operation, Heath's going to be in a lot of pain and it'll only frighten him." Stated Jarrod as he laid a hand on Nick's shoulder. "I told Howard I'd assist him," he added in a shaky voice.

"Jarrod, are you sure?" Asked Nick in a worried voice.

"Someone has to; I figured I was the best one for the job. Jessie's more comfortable with you and Anna needs to help keep Heath from moving for us." He said as he watched a scowl form on Nick's face.

"Well big brother, we better get started," said Nick as he slapped Jarrod on the shoulder. "Jessie!" Nick bellowed, "come on boy I need your help."

Jarrod watched as Nick walked over and took Jessie by the hand and went off to look for firewood. "I don't care what anyone else say's brother Nick, you're something special," he thought as a smile crossed his face, "Yes sir, something real special."

Nick was concerned at how quiet Jessie had been while gathering wood. No matter how hard he tried he barely pried two words out of the boy. Oh he did more than his fair share gathering wood, but Nick could tell his heart just wasn't in it. Nick couldn't put his finger on it but something was definitely wrong with the boy, and he could bet it had more to do than just what happened to Heath.

"Jessie, he's going to get better," Nick, stated as the two neared camp. Jessie never acknowledged Nick's comment at all; he kept walking at a steady pace with his head hung low carrying an armload of wood back towards the camp.

Truth was he hadn't even heard Nick he was concentrating on Heath. "As long as I stay close to him he'll fight," thought Jessie as he walked through the trees. "I can't let him die too, I just can't."

"Jessie," Nick said again as the two dropped their wood next to the fire. Getting no response yet again, Nick took a hold of Jessie's arm. "Jessie, I need to talk with you," stated Nick as Jessie finally looked up at him. "Come over here and sit down a minute."

Jessie reluctantly followed Nick all the while looking back at Heath. Sitting down next to Nick, Jessie heard him say, "Jessie, Doc Merer has to operate on Heath. It's pretty serious and we'd only be in the way if we went over next to them, we need to stay over here and make sure that fire keeps going." Said Nick as he waited for Jessie's reaction.

Jessie stared blankly up at Nick before saying in a far away voice, "OK Nick."

Nick was actually a little frightened by the look Jessie's eyes had taken on. It was almost as if he wasn't there, even his voice sounded far away. Nick wrapped his arm around Jessie's shoulder and held him tight as he watched Howard set up his instruments. "Please lord, help him, I'm not ready to let him go. We all need him especially this little boy," he said in a silent prayer as he looked down at Jessie.

"Jarrod, I need to go over the procedure for you." Stated Howard as he finished drying his hands.
"You're going to be my extra set of hands. I'm going to enlarge the wound slightly so I can use my forceps to hold the incision open. Once I locate the spleen I'll tie off the blood vessels to it so I can remove it and minimize bleeding. I'll need you to keep the light focused on the incision and hold the forceps for me. I may ask you to wipe blood away, can you do that?" He asked looking up at Jarrod.

Jarrod nodded yes to Howard as his stomach did a flip-flop, "I hope I can do this," he thought as he looked at Heath.

"Once I remove the spleen I'll cauterize the arteries to control bleeding. Jarrod I don't have any chloroform, this is going to be very stressful for Heath." Stated Doc Merer as he finished wiping his instruments clean. "Washing these instruments in the boiling water will help but if Heath's spleen has been lacerated, his abdomen will be full of bacteria. I'll need to wash the cavity out once the spleen is removed."

"Howard, how many times have you done this?" asked Jarrod with a worried voice.

"Quite a few, but they were done in my office or in the hospital Jarrod. This is not the first place I'd choose to do this operation, but if we don't he'll die before we can get him anywhere." Replied Howard.

"Doctor Merer how can I help?" asked Anna as she continued to hold onto Heath tightly.

"Anna, we need to lay Heath down flat for this. I need your help keeping him as still and quiet as possible. It's going to be very hard on him, this position will also make his breathing more difficult." Replied Howard as he handed a wet cloth to Anna, "Use this to help wipe his head and neck, it may help him a little. I don't like the way his temperature is starting to raise. I need to get the spleen out now."

Anna took the washcloth and placed it on Heath's forehead, "Heath love, I'm going to lay you down now. The doctor needs to fix the wound in your side, I'll be right here with you." She whispered in his ear before kissing his warm cheek.

Heath had been dreaming about his picnic with Anna when his world changed from one of peace and tranquility to one of never ending agony. As Jarrod helped Anna lower Heath gently back onto the grass, the pain in his abdomen and back returned with a vengeance. He let out a loud moan as he clenched his jaw tightly, his breathing coming out in short shallow pants through his clenched teeth. He could feel Anna's hand on his forehead and holding his right hand; turning his head he opened his eye slightly to look at her.

A tear ran quickly down Ann's face as she looked into Heath's pain filled eyes, "I'm sorry love," she said bending down close to him and running her delicate hand through his wet hair. "You’ll feel better once the doctors finished." She desperately hoped her last statement was correct; she couldn’t bear seeing him in any more pain.

Before his mind could formulate a response, he yelled out in pain as Doc Merer began working on the knife wound. His first instinct was to try and turn away from the pain, but Anna was there trying to comfort him.

"Heath, please don't try and move." She pleaded as she gripped his hand harder and bent down next to his ear. She could see his body shake as the doctor continued to work, his jaw was clenched shut and his breathing was rough and ragged. His eye had a desperate far away look as he gazed up at her. Wiping his face and neck with the cloth she began to sing softly to him,

"Oh the winter it has passed
And the summer's come at last
The small birds are singing in the trees
And their little hearts are glad
Ah, but mine is very sad
Since my true love is far away from me

And straight I will repair
To the Curragh of Kildare
For it's there I'll finds tidings of my dear

Oh the rose upon the briar
And the clouds that float so high
Bring joy to the linnet and the bee
And their little hearts are blessed
But mine can know no rest
Since my true love is far away from me."

Heath could just barely hear Anna through the wall of pain he was in. As he closed his eyes he started to hear her calling him, he could see her standing next to a pond. Her hair was blowing back in the warm gentle breeze as she held her arms out to him. Her green eyes sparkled as she smiled at him, "come her my love, let me hold you," he could hear her say as he walked through the long grass of the meadow.

As Jessie heard Heath's agonizing cry he tried to rush over to him. Nick caught him and pulled him close, "Jessie you need to stay here. I know it's hard, but you'll help Heath more by staying away right now." He said as he struggled to hold the distraught youngster.

"Nick I have to go, please! He needs me!" Jessie pleaded as he struggled to get free.

"He sure is strong for his size," thought Nick as he continued his battle with Jessie. "Jessie don't you think I want to run over to him too? He's my little brother, Jessie."

Nick's words struck a cord in Jessie's heart, he too had a little brother once, and he understood Nick's feelings. Calming down, he let Nick hold him tightly to his chest. "I'm sorry Nick," Jessie said through his sobs. "I.... I just don't want anything to happen to him…. It hurts so much Nick," he cried.

"I know Jessie," Nick said quietly as he held onto the small child and slowly rocked him. "He's in good hands," added Nick as a tear rolled down his own face.

"Jarrod, hold the clamp right here." Stated Doc Merer as he positioned the clamp in Jarrod's hand. "I'm going to tie off the blood vessels to the spleen," he said as Jarrod watched him work the needle and thread inside the wound.

Jarrod looked up at Heath's head just as Anna looked back towards him. Her eyes clearly showed the pain she was in. "Jarrod, Heath's breathing is pretty shallow. His color has dropped some too." Anna informed him in a shaky voice.

"How much longer Howard?" Jarrod questioned as he looked over at Howard's sweaty brow.

"I've almost finished tying off the major blood vessels, can you move the light a little to your left for me Jarrod." He replied, "thank you. There that's the last one, now I'll cut them away and pull out the spleen."

Jarrod watched as Doc Merer cut the last blood vessel and pulled out the spleen. "The knife went pretty far in," he stated as he showed the knife wound on the spleen to Jarrod. "The contents of the spleen have been leaking out into his abdomen. That's why his temperature is climbing. Hold this cloth inside the wound while I heat this," stated Howard as he walked over to the fire with an odd looking metal rod.

Jarrod cringed as he held onto the cloth soaking up the blood in his brother's stomach. His hand was beginning to shake when Howard returned with the hot instrument. "OK Jarrod you can remove the towel now, just hold the clamp wide open for me."

Jarrod did as asked and watched as Howard carefully lowered the hot instrument into Heath's wound. Small trails of smoke came rising out of the cavity as the doctor cauterized the ends of the blood vessels to stop any further bleeding. "I don't see any further damage, Jarrod. Let me wash this out and then I'll sew him back up." Stated Howard as he took the warm wet clothes from the bowl next to him and began cleaning out the wound.

Jarrod turned his head away from the gory site and looked up at Anna. She was quietly humming as she held onto Heath's hand and wiped the sweat off of his face. Jarrod could see the tears running down her face as she looked lovingly down upon him. "Hold on brother Heath, were almost done," thought Jarrod as he turned his attention back to the task at hand.

Nick watched from afar as Jarrod and Doc Merer worked on Heath. He hadn't seen Heath move a muscle in quite some time and that concerned him. Trying to ease his own fears he ran his hand through Jessie's hair, he was glad the boy finally managed to fall asleep. At least he could escape this terrible scene for a little while. "I know why you're so close to him," he thought as he continued to run his hand through Jessie's hair. "You both have so much in common, so much heartache. But that's going to change, for both of you. I'm going to make sure of it!"

"Jessie...Jessie!" shouted Mary Thorton as she stood on her front porch. "Were is that child," she asked herself while wiping her hands on her apron. "Jessie!"

As he was busy finishing up the repairs on the shed door, when he heard his Mamma calling him. Dropping what he was doing he ran through the backyard and around to the front of the house, "what is it Mamma?" Jessie asked as he skidded to a stop in front of her.

"Jessie I told you fifteen minutes ago it was time for Supper, what's keeping you?" She asked as she looked down at his dirty clothes.

"Sorry Mamma," he replied hanging his head, "I just thought I could finish the shed before supper."

"You'll have enough time after supper to finish it, now go and get washed up, you're filthy." She said as a smile spread across her face.

"But Mamma, Papa needs me to help him in the barn after supper and I haven't finished with the shed yet." He stated trying to plead his case with her.

"I'll talk with your father son, now lets get going. You don't want cold chicken now do you?" She asked as she held her hand out to him and smiled.

Jessie bound up the porch steps and grabbed his mother's hand as the two walked inside. Hurrying into the kitchen, Jessie pumped some water into the sink and washed his hands and face. After toweling off he made his way over to the table, "nice of you to join us," said James Thorton as he first scowled at his son and then had to chuckle at him. "Come on boy sit down and eat," he laughed as the worried look was replaced by a smile on Jessie's face.

Sitting down Jessie held out his hand to his baby sister and then his father, the Thorton family all said grace while holding hands. "Everything smells real good, Mamma," stated Jessie as he heaped string beans on his plate.

"That's cause I helped," replied Carrie as she sat up straight in her chair, her eyes revealing her delight.

"Yuck!" shouted Thomas as he put his fork down, "you touched this?" he said as he stuck his tongue out at Carrie.

"Thomas! That's enough," said Mary as she waved a finger at him. "Carrie did a wonderful job helping me in the kitchen today. Now you're going to finish everything on that plate young man." She added as she smiled at Carrie.

"Oh Ma," Thomas sighed as he looked down at his plate. "But..."

"But nothing Thomas, I mean it." Mary replied cutting him off.

Jessie laughed to himself as he watched a very dejected Thomas stare down at his plate as he slowly moved the food around with his fork. "This is really good Carrie," Jessie stated as he took a bite of his chicken.

"Thanks Jessie!" Replied Carrie as a big smile crossed her lips.

Jessie looked over at his Mamma and winked as she smiled back at him.

"Is good Carrie!" said Mary Beth as she waved a chicken leg over her head.

Little Mary Beth's comment caused everyone at the table except Thomas to laugh. "See Thomas, I told you I can cook," stated Carrie as she crossed her arms across her chest and stared defiantly at him.

Breaking up the laughter James asked Jessie how the shed was coming along. "Papa I'm almost finished with it." He replied as his heart sank, he knew his father was hoping to have that chore completed before supper so he would be free to help him with the wagon in the barn after supper.

"James, I asked Jessie to do a few chores for me this afternoon, that's why he's running a little behind with the shed." Spoke up Mary as she looked over at Jessie.

"All right son, how much longer will you need?" asked James as he bit off a piece of his bread.

"Only about a half hour Papa," replied Jessie as a small sigh of relief escaped his mouth. His father didn't seem mad at all that the shed wasn't finished.

"After supper you can finish it up and then help me in the barn." Replied James as he continued to eat. "And Jessie, thanks for helping your Ma today." He added as he shot a smile over to his oldest son.

Jessie ate the rest of his dinner with a smile on his face, his Papa was still proud of him. His father never threw compliments around unless he really meant them, and this one had meant a lot to Jessie.

After supper Jessie ran outside and finished the rest of his repairs on the shed, after cleaning up his tools and storing the extra supplies, he raced over to the barn to help his Pa. "All finished Papa," he said as he walked up next to his father.

"Well you're just in time," replied James and he laid a hand on Jessie's shoulder. "Here you take the wheel and put it on the axle when I tell you too," he said as he rolled the wagon wheel over to him.

Jessie stood by and held onto the wheel as his Pa used a hoist connected to one of the barns cross beams to pull up the wagon. "All set Jessie, go ahead and set the wheel on," stated James as he pulled on the hoist's rope.

Jessie set the wheel on the axle with no problem and stepped back as his Pa set the wagon back down. "Well done son, how about handing me some grease for this nut."

"Here Papa," replied Jessie as he handed a cloth filled with grease to him.

"Why don't you tighten the nut for me, I'll go in and tell your Ma were going to take the wagon out for a while. Don't put to much grease on," he added as Jessie watched him leave the barn.

Quickly getting to work Jessie had the nut on and tightened in no time. He loved it when his father trusted him to do things around the ranch with out him around. It made him feel very grown up.

"Good job son," stated James as he returned to the barn and checked the wheel. "What a ya say we go and try her out."

"I'll get Daisy," Jessie almost shouted as he ran over to her stall. "Come on girl, we're going for a ride," he said to her as he led he over towards the wagon.

Jessie watched as his father hitched up the horse and led her out of the barn. "Well hop on up here," James said as he looked down at Jessie and patted the seat next to him.

Jessie smiled and scampered up into the wagon nest to his Pa. "Here you go, why don't you take us over to Jake's. I want to check up on him and Katy, they weren't feeling to good yesterday when I picked up the grain." James said as he handed the reins over to Jessie.

"Thanks Papa," said Jessie as he started the wagon moving down the road. The two rode on in silence for a while just enjoying each other's company and the lovely scenery around them. Jessie inhaled deeply as the aroma of pine filled his nostrils; there was nothing better than riding along with his Papa.

"Jessie what do you say you and I take a little camping trip next month," asked James as he leaned back in his seat.

"I'd really like that Pa," stated Jessie as his heart began to beat faster and faster under his shirt.

James smiled as he heard the excitement in his son's voice. The ranch had been keeping them extremely busy for the past few months and he hadn't had a lot of time alone with Jessie in a long time. He was growing up so fast it was almost scary; he couldn't ask for a better right hand man when it came to running the ranch. That boy could put in a days work equal to that of a full-grown man. But that fact pained him at times, Jessie shouldn't have to do the work of an adult; after all he was still only a child. Hopefully this camping trip would let him be just that again, a child, at least for a little while.

"All right then it's settled, we'll fill your Ma in on the details when we get home." James stated as he ruffled Jessie's hair. "Let's get this wagon moving a little, your Ma's gonna skin us if we don't get home at a reasonable hour," laughed James.

Jessie urged Daisy on faster as his heart soared. He was going camping alone with his Pa; it just didn't get any better than that in his book. He adored his Papa; he could do no wrong in Jessie's eyes.

Jessie pulled up in front of the Butlers house and jumped down from the wagon. Walking up to the front door with his Pa and knocking, he noticed how quiet everything seemed. Usually when they came over to the Butler's Katy was outside working in her vegetable garden or hanging out laundry. Jake was always fixing up something on the house or in the barn, but today they were nowhere to be seen.

James rapped on the door a second time, just before he was going to knock again he heard footsteps inside. "Who is it?" Came a very groggy sounding voice.

"Jake, it's James and Jessie," he replied as he looked down at Jessie.

Opening the door Jake Butler greeted James, "Sorry to keep you waiting James, the missus and I haven't been feeling to well lately." Stated Jake as he began to cough.

"I'm sorry to hear that, is there anything we can do for you?" asked James as noticed how tired Jake looked.

"No thank you James, we should be feeling just fine in a few days I expect," replied Jake as he forced himself to smile.

"All right Jake, I'll stop over in a day or two to make sure. You know Mary she'll have me hauling some of her soup over to you in no time." Stated James as he shook Jake's hand.

"I hope you feel better Mr. Butler," said Jessie as he stepped up next to his Pa.

"Thank you son," replied Jake as he bid them good-bye.

As Jessie and his father walked back to the wagon, Jessie couldn't help but think how tired Mr. Butler looked. And it wasn't like Mrs. Butler not to come to the door whenever someone came over. He hoped they both got better real fast.

The ride back to their ranch was a quiet one; Jessie could tell his father was troubled about something. As they pulled up to the barn James told Jessie to go ahead inside and that he would take care of the Daisy and the wagon. "Tell your Ma I'll be in shortly."

"OK Pa," replied Jessie as he headed off towards the house. As he walked up the porch steps he could hear Carrie crying inside. Opening the door he saw his Mamma holding on to Carrie. Carrie in turn was holding on to a headless doll.

"Honey I'm sure Thomas didn't mean to break her," stated Mary as she tried to comfort Carrie.

"He...did too...Mamma!" Sobbed Carrie, "he...went like...this," she sobbed as she made a twisting motion with her hands where the dolls head used to be. "And then...he pulled...it off!"

"Don't fret Carrie; I can fix her up good as new. I'll also have a talk with Thomas." Said Mary as she gave Carrie a big hug. "Now go in and get ready for bed, I'll be up to tuck you in shortly."

Jessie watched as his little red headed sister kissed her Mamma and ran up the stairs. "I guess Thomas was playing with Carrie's doll again." Stated Jessie as he walked across the room.

"How are the Butler's?" asked Mary as she pulled Jessie down onto her lap. "Are they feeling better?"

"No Mamma, it took Mr. Butler an awful long time to answer the door and he sounded all wrong." Replied Jessie as he relaxed in his mother's arms.

"What do you mean wrong, Jessie," questioned Mary a little confused by his comment.

"Well he sounded kind a like a frog, and he coughed a lot too." Replied Jessie.

"I'll have to take some soup over for Katy tomorrow, hopefully that'll make them feel better." Said Mary as she hugged Jessie.

Jessie let out a small giggle as his Mamma mentioned the soup. "What's so funny Jessie?" inquired Mary as she looked down at him.

"Oh nothing Mamma," Jessie said as he tried to control yet another giggle.

"I think you're hiding something young man, I’ll just have to find out what it is." Stated Mary as she began to tickle him.

"I'm... not...Mamma!" Laughed Jessie as he tried to wiggle away from her.

Mary loved listening to her oldest son's laugh. Most days he was so preoccupied with helping his father around the ranch that she never got to spend much time with him. He was a complex child that was slowly turning into a fine young man. One that made her feel truly blessed. Giving him a big bear hug she kissed him on his head.

"No mushy stuff Mamma," Jessie stated as he continued to squirm.

"OK you win," laughed Mary. "Now go in the kitchen and finish up your reading while I tuck Carrie in and have a talk with that younger brother of yours." She said, while helping Jessie to his feet.

As they both stood up, Jessie turned around and put his arms around his Mamma. "I love you Mamma," he said quietly as he held on to her tightly.

"I love you to son," replied Mary as she hugged him back. "Now scoot," she laughed as she swatted him on the backside.

"I'm going," he laughed as he walked off towards the kitchen. He wasn't sure how long he'd been reading when his Papa walked into the kitchen and sat down across from him. "All finished Papa?" Jessie asked as he laid his book down on the table.

"All set for today," replied James as he smiled at Jessie. "How about a game of checkers, that is if you've finished your reading."

"I'm a whole twenty pages ahead," replied Jessie as he jumped up to get the checkerboard. "Can I be black this time?" He asked as he set the board down on the table.

"Fine by me," replied James as they set up the board. "Doesn't matter what color you pick, I'll still beat you," he chuckled. His chuckled soon turned into a slight cough, "hang on son, I'm just going to get a glass of water." Said James as he made his way over to the sink.

"You OK Papa?" asked Jessie in a concerned voice.

"I'm fine son, just a little tickle in my throat is all," he replied as he sat down with a glass of water in his hand. "Come on let's play," he said smiling at Jessie.

Mary walked into the kitchen only to find Jessie and her husband staring at one another across a checkerboard. "Who's winning?" she asked as she pulled out a chair and sat down.

"I am," came the reply in unison from both of them.

Mary sat back and laughed, "I'm not sure why I even bothered to ask that question."

Just then there was a knock at the front door, "I'll get it," shouted Jessie as he jumped up and ran to the door. Opening the front door he was greeted by a tall cowboy wearing a blue shirt and light tan pants. The cowboy's blue eyes looked so familiar…. "Heath?" He questioned looking up at the stranger.

"Boy Howdy Jessie, did you go and forget about me all ready?" stated the cowboy as he took off his hat.

"Heath!" Jessie shouted as he raced into Heath's arms. "Your all right!"

"Of course I am Jessie," why wouldn't I be?" asked Heath as he hugged the boy.

"But you were hurt, remember, Hank and Matt, they….." Said Jessie as he pulled back a little.

"Sorry little guy, I'm not sure I met those fellas," stated Heath as he looked down at Jessie. "I'm just here to meet your parents." He added smiling at Jessie.

"But if you're here...then that means you di... No Heath! You have to leave now! You can't come in here!" Screamed Jessie as he tried to push Heath off the porch and away from the house. "I don't want you here! You have to leave! Please!" He screamed as he continued to push Heath backwards.



Doctor Merer had finished stitching both wounds in Heath's side and was preparing to work on the bullet wound to his leg when Anna let out a startled cry. "Come on Heath, breath!" She shouted as she tried to pull him up to a sitting position.

Nick tried to wake up Jessie as the boy began to scream for Heath in his sleep. "Jessie wake up, your having a bad dream," he said as he shook Jessie gently.

Jessie opened his eyes and looked up at Nick, "Heath?" he said as a terrified look came over his face.

"Jessie, it's Nick," he replied as he nervously looked at the boy.

"Heath!" screamed Jessie as he pushed off Nick's chest and raced over towards the campfire. Nick was up and after him in a flash. Jessie made it to Heath's side just as Anna was picking him up and pleading with him to breath. "Heath! You can't leave! You can't stay there! Come back!" He screamed as he grabbed Heath's shoulders.

"Jessie!" Shouted Nick as he grabbed him around the waist and tried to pick him up.

Jessie felt Nick's hands around his waist and screamed for him to stop, his desire to help Heath over ruled his every thought. He had to bring him back; thrusting his elbow backwards as hard as he could it connected with Nick's jaw.

Stunned by the blow to his face Nick let go of Jessie; dropping back down in front of Heath Jessie began shouting at him again. "Heath, we need you here!" Grabbing his shoulders, Jessie shook him as he shouted at him. "You can't stay with them! You have to come back!"

Doc Merer and Jarrod were shocked by Jessie's actions; Jarrod had his hand on Jessie's back as he watched the heart-breaking scene.

"Heath ...Please!" Screamed Jessie as he frantically tried to bring Heath back, "Your not welcome there! You have to leave! I'm here! Please come back! I need you here! Anna needs you here!" He wailed as he continued to shake Heath's shoulders.

Doctor Merer feared the worst as he looked down on the lifeless young man; he was about to pull Jessie away when he saw a shudder pass through Heath's body. Kneeling down next to him, he watched as Heath tried to take a breath. "That's it Heath, just keep breathing." Stated Howard as he watched Heath's chest rise and fall ever so slowly.

Jarrod held onto Jessie as Doctor Merer placed his stethoscope on Heath's chest. "He's breathing again but his lungs are full of fluid." Said Howard as he looked up at Jarrod, "There's no way I can take that bullet out of his leg now, he's just not strong enough."

Jessie knelt back down on Heath's side next to Doc Merer; reaching up his small hand he placed it on Heath's cheek. "Oh Heath, I knew you'd come back," he cried through his tears. He looked up as he felt Anna's hand now covering his own. She had tears streaming down her face but she was smiling at him.

Anna looked down on Jessie and smiled as she held onto Heath, he hadn't left them; she could feel his labored breathing as his head rested against her chest. She panicked when Heath had stopped breathing just those few horrible moments ago, if Jessie hadn't started screaming at him she was sure he would have died.

"Anna are you all right holding him upright?" asked doctor Merer as he looked up at her.

"I'm fine" she managed to say with out breaking down.

"His breathing should improve with him in this position, if he starts to come around see if you can get any of this water into him." Stated Howard as he set a canteen next to Anna. "I'll be back in a moment, let me know if anything changes."

Anna nodded as the doctor rose and motioned to Jarrod and Nick. Anna looked back at Jessie, the boy looked awful. His eyes were red and swollen; his cheeks had a sunken in look to them. He looked so lost and alone, "Jessie where did you think Heath was?" she asked in a soft voice.

Jessie continued to look at Heath as he replied quietly, "He was at my house, he wanted to met my Mamma and Papa,"

"Jessie, I'm sorry I don't understand," she said as a puzzled look crossed her face.

"Heath wanted to come inside and stay with my Ma and Pa," he replied slowly as if reliving the moment.

"Inside where Jessie?" she asked trying to reach him.

"My old house, he was at the door Anna," replied Jessie as he looked up at her. "He wanted to come in with us, to stay with us." He said as a tear rolled down his face. "Oh Anna, I just couldn't let him in. If I did he couldn't come back, don't you see!" He cried as the tears began falling down his face.

"I understand Jessie," she said as a tear ran down her face. "You brought him back to us, thank you," she added as she held Heath close.

Jessie moved up next to Anna and laid his head on her arm as she held onto Heath. "I'm sorry Anna, I was really scared. It hurts so much all the time," he cried as he touched the side of Heath's face. "I couldn't let him stay, I know it was selfish. Do you think God will forgive me?" He sobbed as he looked up at Anna.

"Of course Jessie, I don't think there is anything for God to forgive. He saw how much we all still need Heath and he let him stay, at least for awhile longer." Replied Anna as she looked lovingly down at Jessie.

"Do you think he'll let Heath stay with us forever Anna?" Asked Jessie as he held onto her arm.

"I hope so Jessie, but that's up to him. All we can do is pray that he does." She replied softly.

Jessie squeezed her arm tighter as he began to cry once again. "Jessie what is it?" Asked Anna concerned at his sudden sadness.

"Anna, I prayed for my Mamma and Papa when they were sick but God didn't listen to me. I tried so hard to be a good son to them but he took them away from me." He sobbed as he held onto her.

Jessie's words bore into her heart; this small child had been through so much. Why must he be forced yet again to suffer so? "Jessie God didn't take your parents away to punish you. He had other plans for them, and you. I'm not sure why God does some of the things he does but it's not my place to question him. Just know that you carry your parents around with you every place you go. Everyone you've ever loved has a place in your heart; all you have to do is remember the good times you shared with them and their right back with you again. Your parents never really left Jessie, you still carry them around with you every where." Said Anna as she felt the boy's cries slow.

"Anna, sometimes I can still hear my brother and sister playing. Is it wrong to want them back? Won't God be mad at me?" He asked in a small-frightened voice.

"No Jessie, I think God knows how much you loved your family and how much you miss them. It's normal to want them here with you, when my father died I wanted him back more than anything else in the world. I prayed every night that God would send him back to us, but he had other plans for him." Replied Anna hoping her words would help him.

"I'm sorry about your Papa, Anna." Jessie said quietly as he looked down on Heath.

"Thank you Jessie, I'm sorry I never had a chance to meet your parents. I would like to tell them what a wonderful and brave son they have." She replied smiling at him.

"Thanks Anna," stated Jessie as the two sat in silence listening to the sound of Heath's slow but steady breathing, both praying that God would answer their prayers for him.

Nick, Jarrod, and Howard Merer listened quietly as Anna talked with Jessie. Each one was beginning to understand what the small boy had just gone through to try and save Heath. "Jarrod, do you think what Jessie dreamed really happened?" asked Nick as he stood staring at the boy.

"Nick right now I think anything's possible." Replied Jarrod, a little bewildered about the past hours events.

"Something's keeping him alive, I'm not sure what it is myself. By all rights, Heath shouldn't be here." Stated Doctor Merer as he looked at Nick and Jarrod. "I really thought we lost him, it's almost as if that boy willed him back."

Nick looked at Howard and then back to Jessie, he was resting his head on Anna's arm while keeping a hold of Heath. "Could he really be responsible for Heath still being alive?" he wondered amazed.

"Howard, what about the bullet in his leg?" Asked Jarrod, concerned for Heath.

"He's just to weak right now, he's lost a lot of blood and with his breathing so labored I'm afraid he wouldn't last long." Replied Howard trying to delicately alarm Jarrod about his brother's condition.

Taking Howard's arm Jarrod led him away from Nick; "We can't just leave the bullet in him, the infection will surely kill him." Stated Jarrod as he stared Howard in the eyes.

"Jarrod, I'll kill him if I try and take it out right now. I'm sorry; but I think you should prepare Anna and Jessie for the worst." Replied Howard as he looked over at Heath.

"Now what just a minute!" Shout Nick as he came up behind Jarrod. "Nobody's given up on that boy!

"Nick..."

"That includes you Howard!" Nick shouted cutting him off. "Would a blood transfusion help him?" Questioned Nick as he moved in front of Jarrod.

"It might help, or it could just prolong his agony." Replied Howard.

"Well come on, what are we waiting for!" Shouted Nick as he started to storm off towards Heath.

"Nick, the conditions here are terrible, you may give Heath your blood but the danger of infection is extremely high. We've already had him opened up once out here, now your asking me to do it again. I have no carbolic acid or any antiseptic, we'll also have to boil the instruments again before we start." Replied Howard as he caught up with Nick and tried to explain the complexity of the situation to him.

"Howard, just what is carbolic acid?" asked Jarrod, a little puzzled by Howard's remarks to Nick.

" An English doctor named Sir Joseph Lister, recently discovered that by spraying carbolic acid sprays in a room before surgery he greatly reduced the risk of infections in his patients. He theorized that germs live on our hands and can also live on surgical instruments. He recommends using antiseptic, but it hasn't made its way out here just yet. That's why I boil my instruments and wash with lye before I touch my patients. But being out here makes everything much more difficult to control." Stated Howard, as he watched Jarrod absorb what he said.

As Jarrod stood reviewing all of the information Howard had just given him, Nick broke his concentration. "Come on, I'll get us some water you round up what you need and let's get on with this," Stated Nick as he broke in between the two men.

"Jarrod you do realize what could happen, don't you?" Asked Howard as he placed a hand on Jarrod's shoulder.

"I do," replied Jarrod, "But I also know what will happen if we don't do anything." He stated before turning to follow Nick.

His never-ending struggle to breathe is what finally brought him back to a world of pain. Anna could feel him starting to stir and tried to ease his discomfort. "Heath, just relax love." She whispered softly in his ear, "I've got you now and I'm not letting go. The more you relax the easier it will be for you to breathe." She added quietly.

Jessie listened quietly as Anna talked to Heath; fresh tears fell down his cheeks as he watched Heath struggle with the pain. If only he could take some of the pain away from his friend, he knew he had to be strong for Heath but it was so hard. His heart felt as though it was going to break in two, how could he possibly help him.

Heath could hear Anna as he tried to find some way to ease the pain he was feeling, but no matter how he tried to move there was no getting away from it.

Anna was becoming increasingly alarmed, she knew the more he tried to move the more he was likely to harm himself further. "Heath Barkley, you listen and you listen good! I want you to stop fussing this instant, do you hear me! I'll have no more of it! Now lay back and relax, let us do the work for you." She told him as her voice started to tremble revealing the fear she held for him.

He could feel Anna's arms around him and hear the fear in her voice as she spoke to him. A new pain washed over him, he was causing the pain he heard in her voice. He needed to open his eyes; needed to make sure she was all right. He couldn't bear the thought of causing her any pain; he had to let her know how much she meant to him.

It felt as though he was deep underwater, and trying to kick his way up to the surface. He managed to open his good eye slightly but nothing would come into focus; everything swam around in a blurry haze that made his stomach roll. He fought against the sea trying to keep his head above the water so he could breathe, he had to see her, had to make her understand he'd be all right.

Anna watched him continue to struggle, "Heath please, please don't try and move," she pleaded with him as her voice cracked. Jessie looked up at Anna; his eyes were as big as full moons. She could tell how frightened he was.

Heath tried to talk but the words he had in his head just couldn't find their way out of his mouth. Closing his eye he tried once again, "Anna," he managed just barely above a whisper.

Hearing Heath say her name made her even more fearful, he needed to save his energy and not waste it trying to talk. Usually getting him to talk was the hard part, now getting him to be quite seemed to be. "Heath, normally I can't get more than two words out of you at once. Now I can't beg you to be quiet," she told him as her voice returned. "You need to save your strength, you owe me another picnic and I aim to take you up on it. Besides Jessie here needs his fishing partner back. Now I want you to rest, if you try anything further I'm going to be forced to leave you here with Nick." She added hoping to get her point across so he would rest.

"Yeah Heath, I know I can catch more fish than you any how." Said Jessie as he stroked Heath's cheek. "If you don't rest up and get better it'll be winter and then we'll have to wait a real long time before we can go fish in again."

Anna smiled down at Jessie, he still looked scared but he was a fighter. He understood so much more than his tender years let on, here on the face of a child she could see the wisdom of an adult.

Heath relaxed back into Anna's arms, it had taken all most all of his energy just to get her name out. And instead of making her feel better, just the opposite had occurred. Maybe they were right; if he could just relax he'd feel better in the morning. Then he could tell them how much they meant to him. But no matter how hard he tried he couldn't find a way to make the pain go away, not to mention everything seemed to be getting hot one moment and then cold the next. He could hear Anna's soft voice humming quietly by his ear; he could feel the vibrations from her cheek on his own. He could feel himself drifting away, her humming becoming more and more distant until finally there was nothing.

Anna felt Heath relax against her as she continued to hum softly against his cheek. As she looked towards the campfire she could see Jarrod, Nick, and Doctor Merer discussing something. From the way Nick was waving his hands around in the air she was sure he didn't agree with something that was said. She watched as he started to make his way over towards her.

"How is he Anna?" Questioned Nick as he knelt down next to her side.

"He's quieted down some, but it took some doing." She replied almost as a sigh.

Nick could tell she had been crying again, her face was still damp with tears. "Anna, why don't you let me take over for a while, you need to get some rest." Stated Nick in a gentle voice as he placed a hand on her shoulder.

"Nick...I don't think I could rest right now," she replied as she held Heath tightly.

"Anna you can't help Heath if you're exhausted. How about I take him for a while and you go help Jessie get settled in. I think he'll listen better to you." Replied Nick as he looked into Anna's eyes. He could see the pain behind those eyes, the anguish she felt, so very much like his own.

Anna looked down at Jessie; the lost look was back in his eyes once again. She needed to help him; he looked so small and alone. "All right Nick, but you promise to get me if he wakes up." She replied looking him directly in the eye.

"I promise," he said smiling at her.

Very gently Anna moved out from underneath Heath and Nick moved in. Heath didn't make a sound as the two switched spots. Jessie remained on the ground now next to Nick, his eyes never leaving Heath.

"Jessie," Anna said quietly as she got down on her knees next to him, "I need your help, can you come with me?" she asked taking his arm.

Jessie kept his focus on Heath; he was scared to death to leave his side. "I can't...Anna," he replied in a far off voice.

"Jessie, Nick's got Heath now. He'll be all right, I need you to come with me." She said again as she watched his expression remain the same. Grabbing a hold of his shoulders she turned him around to face her, "Jessie please, I need your help," she said trying to reach him.

Jessie looked up at her in a daze he was so tired. He tried to turn back around to face Heath but Anna wouldn't let him. "Come on Jessie, up on your feet," she said pulling him up by his arms. As Anna pulled him up to his feet she began leading him away from Heath and towards the campfire. She had to pull on his arm in order to get him to move; the entire time they walked he had his head turned around towards Heath. She sat him down in front of the fire and placed a blanket around him. Sitting down behind him she wrapped her arms around him.

He sat without making a sound staring at Heath. Anna watched as Jarrod and Doctor Merer walked over and started talking with Nick. She had a feeling they were going to try and remove the bullet from Heath's leg. The idea of him going through all that pain again brought tears to her eyes. She wished she could take Jessie away from the horrible scene, but she knew he would refuse to go. She was amazed she managed to drag him away from Heath at all.

She watched as Doctor Merer sat Jarrod down next to Heath and began inserting something that looked like a small tube into their arms. "Jarrod must be giving him blood," she thought as she watched the scene unfold.

"I should be the one doing that, Jarrod." Stated Nick as he watched Jarrod prepare to give Heath blood.

"Nick we've all ready discussed this, Heath needs you where you are. It wouldn't make sense to move him again." Replied Jarrod as he watched Howard prepare for the transfusion.

"Well little brother," Nick said quietly as he held onto Heath. "I hope you realize your gonna have fancy lawyer blood running through those veins of yours." Nick watched as Howard began the blood transfusion, blood flowed freely down from Jarrod's arm into Heaths. Nick hoped it would help pick up the boys color some he was so pale.

As Doctor Merer finished up with the transfusion, Anna could hear Jessie mumbling something. As she looked down on him she could see that his eyes were closed and he had his hands clasped together in front of him. As she leaned in closer she could hear what he was saying, "O Lord of all compassion, whose hand is ever stretched out in blessing and healing upon the sick; we pray for Heath. May he be set free from the sickness which afflicts him, and healed by thy power, for the honour and glory of thy name. Amen." He kept repeating it over and over again, "he's reciting the prayer for the sick," thought Anna as she held him close. Quietly she joined him in prayer for Heath.


"The transfusion appears to be successful Jarrod, but it would be wise to let Heath rest a little while longer before I try and remove that bullet." Stated Howard as he began cleaning up his instruments.

"All right Howard," replied Jarrod, rolling down his sleeve.

"Now you take it easy Jarrod, you may be a little light headed for a while," Stated Howard as he helped Jarrod with his sleeve.

"I'll be fine Howard, thanks." Replied Jarrod as he smiled.

Jarrod turned his attention back to Heath, he still looked so lifeless, almost as if he was a mere shell. It was alarming seeing his younger brother is this condition; Heath was always so full of life. Oh sure he was still one of the quietest members of the family but that didn't mean he wasn't just as involved in family matters as everyone else. Heath was so much like their Father more so than either Nick or himself, who’d grown up with him. Their father was one to always think through a situation before passing judgment or taking action, and Heath was the same way. Their father's favorite spot to think was in front of the fire, how many times had he caught Heath doing just the same.

Looking up at Nick, Jarrod could tell his brother was also having a hard time with all of this. Trying to lighten up Nick's mood, Jarrod spoke up. "Nick, remember the time Heath got Adam Short to dance with Audra at the Spring Social?" Laughed Jarrod as he remembered back to that night.

"Yeah, I thought that little sister of ours was going to string Heath up herself," replied Nick as the memories of that dance came floating back.

"He sure knows how to stir things up," chuckled Jarrod. "Adam Short was just about the last person in the world our dear sister wanted to dance with."

"I'm still not sure how he managed to pull it off, Adam's so shy I'm surprised he even came to the dance at all." Replied Nick as he shot Jarrod a smile.

"I spoke with him about that shortly afterwards, seems our little brother here promised him a dance with our dear sister if he came. He also mentioned that Heath told him how much Audra had enjoyed his company at the church picnic." Stated Jarrod with a smile.

"Enjoyed his company! Audra couldn't get away from him fast enough! She claimed he was the most boring self centered man she'd ever met!" Commented Nick as the sight of Audra with Adam Short made him chuckle again.

"I think what really set Audra off was how Heath kept dancing around them saying what a handsome couple they made," laughed Jarrod. "Adam kept Audra busy the entire evening, remember how he offered to drive her back to the ranch?" He asked laughing.

"Boy do I! I thought she was going to run away screaming into the night!" Nick replied.

"She was mad at Heath for days! He kept up his innocent act the entire time too." Laughed Jarrod.

"Now you must remember what he told her," stated Nick as he looked over at Jarrod.

"How could I forget!" laughed Jarrod. "The look on Audra's face was priceless. He told her now she knew what it felt like to be fixed up with one of his friends, and he had so many more for her to meet." Replied Jarrod.

"I can still hear her screaming at him and chasing him around the house until Mother yelled at them both. But not before Audra managed to get in a few good whacks on our little brother," laughed Nick.

Sitting quietly for a moment, Nick spoke up. "Jarrod, he'll be all right won't he?" Questioned Nick as he looked up at his big brother, his eyes revealing the deep concern and love he felt.

"I hope so Nick, ...I hope so," replied Jarrod as face took on a solemn look.

As the morning sun broke over the horizon and the first few rays of dawn fell through the trees, Anna stretched her tired muscles. Looking around the small camp she could see Jarrod curled up and sleeping just off to her left, slowly uncurling her arms from around Jessie and gently lowering him down she quietly rose up to her feet.

She wasn't sure just when she had fallen asleep, the last thing she could remember was hearing Heath cry out as Doctor Merer tried to remove the bullet from his leg. She remembered holding on tightly to Jessie as he had tried to rush to Heath's side. She had held onto him as he cried and pleaded with her to let him go. Her heart had just about broken in two as she cried along with him; it was so hard to hear his anguished cries when she herself had wanted to rush over to Heath as well.

As she walked around the fire she could see Howard checking Heath's bandages. "That means he's still alive!" Her mind shouted out as she quickened her pace. "Howard how is...he?" Anna questioned almost afraid to ask.

"He's still not out of the woods, but he has improved some." Replied Howard as he stood up and placed his hand on Anna's arm. "Did you manage to get any sleep young lady?" He questioned noting the dark circles under her eyes.

"Yes some, thank you," Anna answered as she looked down at Heath.

Nick was still holding Heath in his arms, "he looks so tired," thought Anna as she knelt down beside him.

"Morning Anna," stated Nick as he forced a smile across his face.

"Nick you need to get some rest, let me take over now," replied Anna as she ran her hand along his cheek.

Nick looked down at Heath and then back over at Anna, "I could use a little break, my legs are kind a cramped." He replied.

Heath moaned a little as the two moved him ever so gently. Anna was glad on one hand to get a response out of him but horrified on the other to think that she caused him more pain. "Sorry love," she said quietly as she ran her hand across his forehead and through his hair. "Just rest Heath."

His coloring looked a little better but his breathing still alarmed her. His lips still held a slightly bluish tint to them and his breaths came in short shallow pants. His breathing reminded her of bubbles, it sounded like he was underwater blowing bubbles up to the surface. "Howard," Anna said as the doctor came to check on Heath's head wound.

"What is it Anna?" Questioned Howard as he unwound the bandage on Heath's head.

"It's Heath's breathing, he sounds...well like he's drowning," stated Anna as she looked up at the doctor.

"I'm afraid your almost correct Anna, Heath's lungs are filling up with fluid." Replied Howard as he continued to change Heath's bandage.

"Can you do anything?" Pleaded Anna as her fear for Heath's life grew.

"Anna, Heath has at least four broken ribs. Normally I would bind them but with his lungs so full of fluid I can't, he wouldn't be able to get in any air." Stated Howard as he stopped what he was doing to talk with Anna. "We need to start making him take deep breaths, we need to force him to expand his lungs. Coughing will also help, place a pillow across his abdomen it will help with the pain. All of this is going to be very painful for him and he's bound to fight us on it. But it's the only way to help him."

Anna drew the blanket up and around Heath's shoulders as she felt him shiver. How was she going to get him to breath deeply when it would cause him so much pain. Her heart went out to him as she held him close.

Nick walked up to the fire and sat down in a heap, his body was so tired but his mind wouldn't let him rest. He couldn't get Heath's pain filled cries out of his head. It seemed to take Howard a lifetime to dig the bullet out of Heath's leg, all the while his brother moaned in agony. There was nothing he could do to ease his brother's pain, and this affected Nick deeply.

Jarrod awoke to find Nick sitting next to him staring into the fire. Nick looked exhausted, "How is he Nick?" Jarrod asked as he sat up next to him.

Nick continued to stare into the fire unaware Jarrod had asked him a question. Placing his hand on Nick's shoulder, Jarrod asked again, "Nick how's Heath?"

Jarrod's hand startled Nick and he jumped at his brother's touch. Turning to look at him, "He's the same Jarrod." Came his quiet reply as he turned to look back at the fire.

Jarrod could see the toll last night had taken on Nick. "Nick, I think you'd better get some rest," stated Jarrod as he tried to comfort him. "Heaths going to need your help getting through this."

Nick looked wearily up at Jarrod as he spoke, " all right Pappy, let me know if...let me know when he wakes up." Nick laid back and put his hat down over his face, Jarrod watched his brother for a moment before taking a blanket and placing it over him. "Don't you worry brother Nick, we'll pull Heath through this." Stated Jarrod quietly, more to himself than anyone else.


"Morning Howard," stated Jarrod as he walked over next to the doctor. "Any change?"

"He's still very weak and his temperature has risen some. I'm more concerned with his breathing though. He hasn't been expanding his lungs enough and with the beating he's taken the fluid just keeps building up in them." Replied Howard as he watched Jarrod's face take on a more serious look.

" What can we do to help him?" Asked Jarrod as the two walked back to the fire.

"Keeping his body elevated will help. He needs to take deep breaths, coughing will also help. The problem will be getting him to do these things; it's going to cause him a great deal of pain. Placing a pillow over his stomach will help him some. Jarrod if we can't get him to do this he'll likely develop pneumonia." Replied Howard.

"How soon can we move him? I think it would be good for him to get away from this place and get back to the ranch." Stated Jarrod as the two men sat down.

"Jarrod, Heath is still not out of danger. It would be best to let him recover some before we move him. But then again this is not an ideal location, the chance for further infection is very likely the longer he's out here. We need to be as gentle as possible with him, that wagon ride back to the ranch is going to be pretty bumpy." Replied Howard as he took a cup of coffee from Jarrod's hand.

"What if we could rig up a softer bed for him in the back, extra straw and grass that might help soften things a little." Jarrod offered up.

" It's a start Jarrod, but it's going to be a long trip for him regardless." Replied Howard quietly.

Jarrod sat quietly looking into his coffee cup thinking, "should they chance taking Heath all of the way back to the ranch now or should they wait. What if he couldn't handle the wagon ride, but if they stayed here Heath risked further infection. This had also been where he was held captive and tortured." Jarrod sat for a while longer before getting up to check on Heath, his mind was made up they should get Heath out of this place and back to the ranch.


Heath could hear the birds singing in the trees far above him; he could feel the morning sun beginning to warm the blankets he was under. For some reason it felt as though he was moving but how could that be, after all he way lying down. If only he could open his eyes he could see what was happening, but they felt so heavy and tired.

Anna could feel Heath beginning to stir as she sat in the back of the wagon with him. So far he'd been relatively quiet, he hadn't cried out at all when Jarrod and Nick carried him over to the wagon. Doctor Merer attributed that to Heath's exhaustion from the previous nights events, he had instructed them all not to worry. Jarrod, Nick, and Jessie had packed the back of the wagon with a layer of soft field grass and straw. The ride was much smother on this soft bed, and Heath had remained quiet until now.

"Shhhhhh Heath, your almost home love. Lay back and relax, you'll be home in no time." Anna said quietly as she ran her fingers through his hair.

Anna! It was Anna's voice he heard! Oh how he wanted to hold her, to gaze into her eyes. If only his would open! Why couldn't he open his eyes! His entire body seemed so weighted down, as though someone was sitting on him. He couldn't take a deep breath; his chest just wouldn't expand far enough. If only he could push what ever was on top of him off, he'd be able to breath.

"Heath please you'll only hurt yourself if you try and move." Anna stated pleading with Heath as his movements started to increase.

Heath continued to struggle with the unknown force causing him to feel trapped. His only thought was to remove the terrible weight he felt on him so he could breath.

Anna became increasingly worried as his struggles continued; nothing she said to him seemed to bring him any comfort. "Jarrod! I need your help!" Shouted Anna as she looked over her shoulder at Jarrod.

Jarrod who had been riding in the wagon next to Jessie and Nick turned around and saw the panic in Anna's voice matched that in her eyes. Climbing over the seat he positioned himself next to Heath, "Heath it's Jarrod, you have to stop moving. You're only going to injure yourself further." Said Jarrod as he placed his hand on Heath's shoulders in an attempt to calm him.

Heath felt the pressure on him increase as Jarrod placed his hands on his shoulders; this only made him struggle further. His need to be free of the terrible crushing weight in his chest was over whelming. He felt trapped, suffocated he needed to breath. He had to see what it was holding him down, slowly he managed to open his eyes a crack. Pain exploded into his head as the bright sunlight shown in his eyes. His body convulsed as the pain in his head caused his stomach to heave.

Jarrod helped Anna turn Heath's head as his stomach continued to convulse. "Nick give me your kerchief!" Shouted Jarrod as he held out his hand to Nick. Folding Nick's kerchief a few time he placed it over Heath's eyes. "Relax Heath, I've got you," said Jarrod as he held onto Heath's head holding the kerchief over his eyes to shield him from the sun.

Heath's head swam in the black turbulent sea once again. The black tide was pulling him under, there was no use fighting against it; he finally let himself be drawn back down within it's depths.

Anna looked up at Jarrod as Heath slumped back in her arms; the look on her face was one Jarrod would not soon forget. It wasn't until that moment that Jarrod realized how much Heath meant not only to his family but also to everyone who knew him. Heath touched everyone he came in contact with in very special but different ways; Jarrod could see that now in Anna's eyes.

There it was standing out like a beacon in the midst of a storm, calling out to them as they rode closer. Nick couldn't remember the last time he truly noticed how spectacular the ranch was, with all of its many pastures and fences, the barns and corals. The main house stood tall and proud in the morning sunshine, just the sight of it caused Nick's spirits to rise. The house meant hope, hope and love; the two things his little brother needed most right now.

As he drove the wagon up closer to the house Nick could see the front door open. Mother, Audra, Silas and Claude Wincer ran out and greeted them as he pulled the wagon up to the front door.

"Nick!" Shouted Audra running up to his side as he jumped down from the wagon. "How is Heath?" She all most didn't need him to answer; the look on his haggard face spoke volumes to her. "Oh Nick!," she cried as Nick took her in his arms.

"He's still fighting Audra," replied Nick quietly as he held on to his baby sister. "Audra, I need you to get some extra pillows and bring them up to Heath's room. Can you do that?" Nick asked as he held Audra out in front of him and looked into her tear filled eyes.

Audra shook her head yes and with a quick look towards the back of the wagon she was off and running into the house her golden hair flowing behind her as she ran.

Watching his Mother and Silas rush up to the back of the wagon, Jarrod jumped down to meet them. "He's unconscious right now Mother," stated Jarrod as he held her hands. "Howard had to operate on him last night.

Victoria turned to look at Howard as the Doctor who'd been following along behind Nick's wagon walked up to greet her. "Thank you Howard," said Victoria as she grasped his hand. "Is Heath going to be all right?" she added her voice letting on just slightly how worried she really was.

"He's been through a lot Victoria, what he needs now is rest. Why don't we take him inside and I can fill you in on the rest." Stated Howard as he took Victoria's arm.

Victoria looked up at Jarrod and saw him nod his head, "we'll all be right in Mother," he said as he placed a kiss on her forehead. Victoria and Howard walked back into the house as Jarrod and Nick prepared to lift Heath out of the wagon.

"Silas can you take care of Jessie for us while we move Heath inside?" Asked Nick as he jumped up into the back of the wagon.

"Sure thing Mr. Nick," replied Silas as he walked around to the front of the wagon. "Now I was sure that boy was up here just a moment ago," thought Silas as he looked around for Jessie. "Where could he run off to?"

Anna gave Nick a quick smile as he climbed up next to her and Heath, "we're going to take him inside now Anna, you all right?" He asked concerned for her as well as Heath.

"I'm fine Nick," she replied and again tried to smile at him. Nick could see the pain she was trying to hide with that smile. "He made it Anna, he made it home," replied Nick trying to ease some of her fears.

"I know Nick, and that scares me," she said quietly as she ran her hand down Heath's cheek.

"What do you mean sca..."started Nick before Silas cut him off.

"Mr. Nick! I can't find that boy any where!" Shouted Silas as he ran up next to the wagon.

"Here was just here!" Shouted Nick as he turned to face Silas.

"I know that Mr. Nick but now he's gone!" Came a worried Silas's reply.

"Silas check the barn, he may have gone there to check on Charger," said Anna as she tried to control her emotions.

"Nick, Claude's going to help us get Heath inside. We'll use the blankets the same way we did when we carried him to the wagon. Anna, cross Heath's arms over his chest and wrap him just as tightly as you did before. Nick you and Claude take the blanket by his shoulders, Anna you take Heath's head again and I'll take his feet. Is everyone ready?" Asked Jarrod as he looked around the wagon at their weary faces. Seeing everyone nod their heads, Jarrod gave the go ahead. "All right then on the count of three everyone lift him up slowly and move towards the back of the wagon. One...two...three..."

Very gently the four-moved Heath slowly towards the rear of the wagon, he moaned quietly as Claude and Nick climbed down off the back. Anna looked up at Jarrod as the four walked slowly towards the house. Audra meet them in the foyer and let Nick know Heath's bed was all ready for him.

To Anna the walk from the wagon up to Heath's room seemed to take forever. She was happy that he was finally safe and home, but something else in the back of her mind kept surfacing. She had seen injured people hold on just long enough to die at home surrounded by family. She prayed to God Heath wasn't one of those people.


Jessie hid in the corner of Heath's closet, he knew Nick and Jarrod wouldn't let him stay with Heath and he just had too. He'd jumped down off the wagon when Audra was talking to Nick and ran inside up to Heath's room. He figured if he hid in Heath's closet he could come out when everyone went to sleep, then he'd be alone with Heath. He had to stay with Heath; he had to make sure he was all right. Heath had been there for him and nothing was going to keep him from doing the same for Heath.

As he lay hidden in the closet he could hear footsteps coming down the hall, it sounded like a lot of footsteps this time not just Audra's like before. Audra had almost caught him in the closet; he had just barely laid down when he heard footsteps racing into Heath's room. Through the crack under the closet door he could see Audra's shoes, he held his breath as she walked towards the closet. "Did she see me go in here?" his mind questioned as she drew nearer. Before he could ponder that thought any longer the closet door flew open. Jessie shut his eyes and held his breathe, he was sure Audra would spot him. He knew the bedroll he was hiding behind was nowhere near long enough to hide all of him.

Opening his eyes he could just see Audra's feet inside the closet next to him, she was standing up on her toes. He could hear her rummaging for something up high in the closet, "please don't see me, please don't see me." He prayed as he continued to hold his breath, "here it is," stated Audra as she pulled something down and out of the closet. In her hast to gather more pillows Audra didn't push Heath's closet door all the way closed.

Letting out sigh Jessie took in a deep breath, "she didn't see me!" He thought as he tried to peek out the crack the door left. He could see Audra placing pillows on Heath's bed; "they must be about ready to bring him up here." He thought as he settled back down behind the bedroll.

As the footsteps drew closer Jessie could hear Doctor Merar telling Nick how to place Heath on the bed. "Nick put Heath's head up here on top of these pillows, they'll help keep his head and back elevated." Stated Howard as he helped guide Heath over to the bed. "Jarrod place his leg on these pillows, it'll help him with the pain if we keep it elevated as well."

As they got him situated on the bed Heath hardly uttered a sound, the entire room was oddly quiet. Jessie listened as Mrs. Barkley ushered Jarrod, Nick, and Anna off to get some rest. She thanked Claude for his help and asked him to tell the rest of the men what had happened. Doctor Merar stayed and examined Heath for a short time before Mrs. Barkley made him go lie down also, but not before promising to wake him if Heath came around.

Silas came into the room to let Mrs. Barkley know that he still hadn't found Jessie. Jessie felt awful about making Silas and everyone worry about him but he needed to be near Heath. He knew he could never make them understand, so this was his only choice.

"Mother, I'll go and help Silas look for Jessie. I'm sure he didn't go very far." Said Audra as she stood up and placed a kiss on her Mother's cheek. Before leaving the room she went over to Heath, "I'll be right back big brother, you get some rest. Remember you promised to help me get ready for the dance and I'm not about to let you back out of it either." She told him before placing a kiss on his cheek. Wiping away a tear, she grabbed Silas's hand and the two headed out of the room.

Jessie watched as Victoria sat on the side of Heath's bed and held his hand. He could hear her talking to Heath. "Oh Heath, I'm so sorry." She cried as she rubbed his hand.

For the first time in a long time she felt so helpless, there was nothing she could do to ease Heath's suffering. Howard had explained his injuries to her on their way into the house but seeing him up close like this was truly frightening. He looked so pale, the only color he had was due to the bruises covering much of his body. His face was so swollen; she could see the marks the rope left on his face. Even the hand she held had rope burns around its wrist. His head was wrapped in a large white bandage; she could see some blood on it just above his swollen eye. His chest was wrapped from just under his arms to his waist in another large white bandage. The thought of him going through the operation caused a chill to run through her.

He was still so warm to the touch and his breathing sounded very labored. At least he appeared to be pain free for the moment, she thought as she took a cloth and bathed his face with it. "Heath, it's Mother your home now. We'll take care of you now, you just rest and concentrate on getting better son." She said softly as she continued to wash him with the cool cloth. "I love you son," she told him as she place a kiss on his cheek.

Jessie could hear everything from his spot in the closet, his heart went out to Victoria. She loved Heath as much as he did; he knew how much pain she was in, he was in that same pain. Without really thinking about it he slowly made his way out of the closet, across the floor and over to Heath's bed. Reaching out his small hand he touched the side of Victoria's dress.

Wheeling around at his touch Victoria dropped to her knees in front of him, "Jessie! Where have you been child!" She said as she cradled him against her chest holding him close. "We were so worried about you," she cried as she held onto him.

"I'm sorry," he said quietly as he returned her embrace. "I didn't want to leave Heath," he said as the tears began to fall down his face.

"Jessie no one is going to take you away from Heath right now." Replied Victoria as she held Jessie out in front of her.

"You don't understand I have to stay here with him. In his room with him, I can't let him leave again." He said as even more tears started to fall.

Victoria looked at Jessie as she tried to understand what it was he was trying to tell her. "Jessie what do you mean you can't let him leave again?" She asked puzzled by his comment.

"He wanted to meet my Mamma and Papa, but I wouldn't let him inside. Don't you see if he went inside he could never come back out again." Jessie cried as Victoria drew him once again into her chest. "I couldn't let him stay, please don't make me leave Mrs. Barkley...please!" He pleaded as he cried into her dress.

"No Jessie I won't make you leave," she said quietly as she rocked him. "You can stay here with Heath, he needs you now." She added as she looked over at Heath lying so still on the bed. "He really does need you," she thought as she held tightly onto the small boy.

The dinner table was extremely quiet, Victoria watched as all three of her children picked and prodded at their food. A small chuckled crossed her lips, the way her children moved the food around on their plates reminded her of Heath. Whenever something was bothering him he would do much the same with his food, it was almost as if he were looking for answers underneath the food he moved around.

"Care to let us in on what's so funny Mother?" Asked Jarrod as he smiled at her from across the table.

"Oh it's nothing Jarrod," replied Victoria as she placed her napkin on the table.

"Come on now Mother, something made you laugh," stated Nick as he looked over at her.

"Yes Mother tell us," added Audra.

Victoria looked around the table at the eager faces of her children and smiled, "well it's just that watching you all pick at your food reminds me of Heath. He does the exact same thing when something's troubling him." She told them as a smile crept crossed her face.

Jarrod had to laugh himself as he looked down at his plate, sure enough his food was hardly eaten but it had been carefully moved about his plate to give the appearance as though some of it had been consumed. How many times had he watched his younger brother do the exact same thing. "Well Mother it seems that you've stumbled on yet another commonality we Barkley's all share." Stated Jarrod with a smile.

"Speaking of Heath, I'm goin' to go and check on him." Stated Nick as he pushed his chair back from the table.

"Nicholas you just sit right back down, Anna's upstairs with him and I'm sure she'll let us know if she needs us." Said Victoria as she watched Nick struggle with his emotions.

"But Mother...." Nick began before Victoria stopped him.

"Sit down Nicholas and finish your dinner. How do you expect to run a ranch on an empty stomach." Stated Victoria as Nick sat back down and grabbed his fork.

"You know brother Nick, Mothers right. Your going to need all the strength you can get to run the ranch while Heath's laid up. After all he does do most of the work around here." Jarrod replied as he winked at Audra.

"Does most of the work! Jarrod I'll have you know..." he began before seeing the smile on his brother’s face. "Why you!" he replied waving his fork in the air at Jarrod before joining him in a good laugh. Looking up he could see Audra wink at Jarrod, "now don't you start anything!" he said as he pointed his fork at Audra.

"Why Nick, I'm surprised. What would ever make you think I might be up to something?" Replied Audra as she batted her eyes at him smiling.

"Oh now don't give me any of that!" shouted Nick as he banged his hand down on the table.

"Nick is all that noise really necessary?" Questioned Victoria as she watched him lower his head at her comment.

"They started it," he commented as he began eating his food. Jarrod and Audra both laughed as they watched Nick shovel in his food.

Victoria looked at Heath's empty chair and her thoughts wandered back upstairs to her injured son. She thought about the young boy who wouldn't leave Heath's side, and about Anna. What a terrible thing these poor young innocent children had to live through. And she prayed they all lived through it.


Jessie sat on Heath's bed and watched him breath. He kept a constant eye on the rise and fall of Heaths chest. The dinner tray Silas prepared for him remained untouched on the bedside table.

"Jessie you must eat something," said Anna as she walked over and placed a hand on his shoulder. "You're only going to make yourself sick, and then how would you help Heath."

"I'm just not hungry," came his quiet reply as he continued to watch his friend.

"Please try Jessie," she said as she handed him a piece of bread off his plate. "Here it's just a little something."

Jessie took the bread from Anna's hand and turned his attention right back on Heath. Anna watched as he took small bites of the bread, "well at least he'll have something in him," she thought as she watched him take another small bite.

Silas knocked quietly before walking into Heath's room. "Miss Anna I brought up some broth incase Mr. Heath wakes up, that boys usually mighty hungry." Added Silas as he smiled at Anna.

Taking the bowl Anna placed it next to the bed, "Silas won't you stay for a moment?" she asked taking his hand in her own.

"No Ma'am I've got things downstairs that need tending to." Stated Silas as he started to walk towards the door, "but if you don't mind I'd like to stop up later and check on Mr. Heath, if’n its all right." Silas questioned.

"Oh Silas you know Heath would want you here, and so do I." Replied Anna as she hugged him.

"Thank you Miss Anna, you let me know if you need anything." Silas said before closing Heath's door.

Anna walked back across the room and sat down beside Heath's bed. She gazed upon his bruised and battered face, "please Heath just open your eyes. I only need to look into them to know you'll be all right. Please I couldn't bear it if anything happened to you," she thought as she held onto his hand. "Please God, he's a good man who is loved by so many. Please bring him back to us."


His head was throbbing and his lungs burned as he tried to break through the surface, the closer he came the more pain he felt. It would be so much easier to just sink down into the cold dark depths. Down there he was free from the pain, he could relax, he could breath. But something didn't feel right down there, something felt out of place. Something inside him made him kick towards the surface but the closer he got the more the darkness called out to him. Its voice was sweet and inviting, it offered him an end to all his pain. All he had to do was let go, relax and let the darkness swallow him. It promised him only pain and torment if he continued upwards, he should let go and fall back to where he was welcomed.

He stopped and looked back down for a moment, it would so easy to let himself go. But there were people he loved up at the surface, Anna; Anna would be up there. What would Nick do in his place? Heath knew the answer he'd fight. No matter how long it took or how hard the battle was he wouldn't quit, he'd fight for what he wanted. "And so will I!" Heath shouted down into the darkness. Giving it everything he had, he lunged for the surface. As he broke through his world was once again filled with pain.

Although the light coming from the lamp was low, Victoria could see Heath beginning to stir. She watched him carefully as she held onto a sleeping Jessie. Quietly waking Jessie she placed her finger to her mouth and then pointed at Heath.

Rubbing his eyes as he turned his head, Jessie could see Heath starting to wake up. Quickly jumping down out of Victoria's lap Jessie climbed up carefully next to Heath's feet on his bed and watched him.

Victoria picked up a cloth and submerged it in the basins cool water, after wringing it out she took it over to Heath and began wiping his face and neck with it. She could see the battle he was waging against unconsciousness, "Come on Heath, fight! We're all here waiting for you." Victoria told him as she continued to try and cool him.

It wasn't long before she was rewarded. Heath slowly opened his eyes, although the room was fairly dark the light hurt his eyes and made his head pound even harder. It took him a long time before anything came into focus, "Mother..." he managed in a horse whisper as he looked upon her smiling face.

"Oh Heath, your home and your safe now," Victoria said as she ran her hand over his cheek. "It's so good to have you back," she added as she bent down and kissed his forehead. As Victoria stood back up she looked over at Jessie. The boy had tears running down his face. "Heath, there's someone else here who's been waiting a long time to see you," Victoria told him as she held out her hand and motioned Jessie to join her.

Jumping down from the foot of Heath's bed Jessie slowly walked up to Victoria and took her hand. Looking up he could see her smiling at him, he was suddenly afraid. He wasn't really sure of what but he was afraid, he couldn't look at Heath. It wasn't until Heath said his name that Jessie's fear vanished.

"Jessie..." Heath managed in a soft whisper.

Jessie looked at Heath and saw the small slits of his blue eyes looking directly at him; he was alive! He hadn't stayed with Mamma and Papa! Sheer joy raced through Jessie's heart! "Heath you stayed!" Jessie shouted as he laid his head on Heaths upper arm and cried. "You didn't leave me! You stayed!" He sobbed as he lay on Heath's arm and put his left hand on the top of Heath's head.

Victoria watched as very slowly Heath raised his left arm and placed it around Jessie. The boy continued to cry but Victoria knew they were tears of joy this time. Heath would recover, oh it was bound to be a long road but she could see it in his eyes. He had won the battle; he'd chosen to come back to them, to fight for those he held so dear.



The mood around the breakfast table was very different from the previous evenings. Instead of solemn glum faces everyone now had a sparkle in their eye and a smile on their face. Food was actually being consumed instead of picked at and pushed around on plates; the chatter was lively and festive. Victoria was pleased by the changes she both saw and felt it was amazing what one small little lopsided grin could do.

"Good morning Mother, and might I add you're looking lovely today," stated Jarrod as he made his way into the dinning room and placed a kiss on her cheek. "Good morning Audra, Anna," he added as he smiled and sat down at the table.

"Well Jarrod I'd say from the look of your clothing you're planning to stay around the ranch today." Stated Audra, commenting on Jarrod's lack of a suit and tie.

"Right you are little sister, I was planning on helping Nick around the ranch today." Replied Jarrod as he reached for the jam.

"Well Jarrod it will certainly be nice having you around the house today," stated Victoria as she winked at him.

"I must say I'm surprised at you Jarrod," giggled Audra as she looked over at Anna.

"Oh and why is that young lady?" Questioned Jarrod as he wiped his face with his napkin and turned to look at her.

"Well I just figured you wouldn't want to get any of that old ranch dirt under those clean nails of yours." She laughed as she watched Jarrod's surprised look.

"Very funny, I think you've been talking to Nick to much lately." He laughed throwing his napkin at her. "Speaking of Nick where is he?"

"Oh he's upstairs with Heath," replied Victoria. "I'll be going up and taking over for him right after breakfast."

"And I suppose Jessie's right up along side him," said Jarrod more as a statement than a question.

"Yes, Silas finally managed to get him to eat a little bit this morning but he still refuses to leave Heath." Replied Victoria as a worried look crossed her brow.

"Mrs. Barkley, maybe I can help out with Jessie. I mean if it's all right." Stated Anna as she too worried about the little boy.

"Anna that's a wonderful idea, he's really taken with you." Replied Victoria as a smile crossed her face.

"Thank you Mrs. Barkley," replied Anna as she pushed back her chair and walked over to Victoria.

"And Anna please call me Victoria," she said as she reached out and held onto Anna's hands. "Tell Nick I'll be up in a moment, and that his brother will be waiting patiently for him downstairs."

"I will," replied Anna as she squeezed Victoria's hands before turning and heading out of the dining room. Stopping at the bottom of the stairs she took a moment to look up at Heath's closed door. All the images from the past two days came flooding back to her on an emotional roller coaster. She sat down on the bottom step and began to cry softly. She herself didn't quite know why the sudden tears, after all Heath was going to get well.

"Miss Anna," stated Silas as he ran over and placed his hands on her arms. "What is it? Is something wrong?" He asked as his concern for her grew.

"I'm all right Silas, thank you." She replied as she tried to dry her tears.

"Now I know that's not true Miss Anna. You don't have to worry about that boy up there, he's goin' to be just fine." Stated Silas in an attempt to cheer her up.

"It's not that Silas," Anna began before pausing a moment. "I think everything just finally caught up with me. Two days ago Heath and I were so happy, Silas I finally found the man I want to spend the rest of my life with. Then to almost loose him before we even had a chance to really get to know one another, really frightened me. Does that make any sense?" Asked Anna as a fresh tear fell down her cheek.

Silas could see the love she held for Heath written all over her, "Yes Miss Anna, what you and Heath had to go through was terrible. But remember, it was your love for one another that pulled you through it. Don't you go forgettin' that now, you two is goin' have a long future ahead of you so don't worry about the past. Enjoy each other right now." Stated Silas as he watched the tear fall down Anna's face.

"Oh Silas thank you!" Shouted Anna as she threw her arms around him. "What would I do with out you?” She added as she pulled back and looked at him.

"Now don't be standing around here any more. Go on get upstairs and see Heath." Replied Silas as he shoed her away with his hand.

Silas watched as Anna made her way up the stairs and into Heath's room. That girl was something special indeed.

Opening Heath's door as quietly as possible Anna entered his room. Nick had pulled the drapes closed so the light in the room was fairly low. Anna could see him sitting in the large wing back chair next to Heath's bed; Jessie was curled up on him sleeping. Walking up quietly behind Nick she watched him look at the sleeping Heath, she could see the concern in his eyes as he watched his younger brother. Reaching out and touching his head, Anna asked him how he was feeling. "How are you Nick?"

"I'm fine Anna," Nick replied as he took her hand and smiled. "He's been pretty quiet for the past few hours," Nick said as he motioned towards Heath.

"Could you get him to take anything?" Anna asked as she noticed the bowl of soup still on the night table.

"I'm afraid not much, about half a glass of water and a couple teaspoons of broth is all." Nick replied with a frown. "I've been trying to get him to take a deep breath every once and a while but it's not easy. He's still in a lot of pain." Nick added his voice fading a little.

"Nick I think just you being here for him helps ease some of that pain." Stated Anna as she squeezed his hand. "Now here, let me take Jessie. I'm going to try and get him out of this room for a while."

Nick lifted Jessie into Anna's awaiting arms as he stood up from the chair. Anna started to carry the still sleeping child towards the door when she turned around and quietly spoke to Nick. "Nick I almost forgot, your Mother will be up shortly and Jarrod's waiting downstairs for you. I think he plans on helping you around the ranch today." She said smiling before continuing out through the door.

"That's just great! I've got a million chores to do and to top it all off I get to baby sit my big brother!" Nick said into the quiet room as he sat back down in the chair hard. Watching the pained look on Heath's face as he lay in bed made Nick's mood soften once again.

Things could have turned out so differently, instead of sitting here in Heath's room watching over his little brother, the unthinkable could have happened. What would he do without him; he hoped he’d never find out the answer to that question.

Walking over to the nightstand he picked up a clean cloth and placed it in the basin. Wringing it out he started to wiped Heath's face, neck and chest with the cool cloth. "Well little brother you sure know how make everyone wait on you hand and foot," Nick joked quietly as he continued to wipe his brother. "I gotta hand it to you Heath, that Anna is something special. You better hurry up and get well or I just may have to steal her away from you."

"Just...try..it," replied Heath very slowly and quietly.

"Well now if I knew you were awake I would have planned some chores for you." Stated Nick as a smile crossed his face.

Heath slowly opened his eyes and looked over at Nick, "Got ...any water?" He asked in a horse voice.

"Sure, sure hang on I'll pour you a cup," Nick replied as he jumped up and poured a glass of water. Walking back to the bed he sat on the edge by Heaths head. "Here let me hold if for you," Nick said as he tilted the glass towards Heath's mouth. With Heath in an elevated position there was no need to support his head or move him. "Nice and slow now, you don't want Mother yelling at me for trying to drown you now do you?" Nick joked as Heath struggled to swallow the water.

He was so thirsty, if only he could get his mouth to cooperate. The harder he tried to swallow the water, the more it ended up running out the sides of his swollen mouth and down onto his chest.
Frustrated he shook his head slowly to let Nick know he was through.

"You certainly didn't drink very much," Nick stated while holding the still nearly full glass up for inspection. "Care to try again?"

Heath turned his head away from Nick and shut his eyes; he needed to concentrate on his breathing. Trying to swallow the water had taken a toll on his battered ribcage; he could feel a tickle building in his throat. His need to cough was growing and he couldn't stifle it. He knew how painful it was going to be and tried to brace himself.

Nick watched as Heath's body suddenly tensed up, "Heath, what is it?" He asked as he quickly put down the glass of water.

Nick got his answer as the cough Heath was trying so hard to suppress worked it's way out. Nick grabbed a pillow from behind Heath and placed it across Heath's stomach as he held him up with his other hand behind Heaths back.

Sweat broke out on Heath's face as he tried to breath between coughs. After his brothers coughing subsided Nick laid him back down onto the bed of pillows. Grabbing the damp cloth he started to wipe the sweat from Heath's face. He was growing concerned as he watched Heath struggle to catch his breath. "Heath take it slow and easy, deep breathes. I know they hurt but they'll help, trust me." Nick said softly as he tried to help.

Heath tried to do as Nick instructed. He could only manage one or two deep breaths but they did seem to help, after that his ribs were just too painful and he went back to his more familiar shallow breathing pattern. As he turned his head towards Nick his eyes were once again feeling very heavy, "Thanks...Nick" he said hoarsely before closing his eyes.

"You're welcome little brother, now rest up." Nick stated as he ran his hand through Heath's hair.

"Good afternoon Dr. Merer," stated Silas as he welcomed the doctor inside the house.

"Afternoon Silas, is Mrs. Barkley home?" asked Howard as he handed his hat to Silas.

"Yes sir, she's upstairs with Mr. Heath. You can go right on up if you'd like." Replied Silas as he walked the doctor over towards the stairs.

Tipping his head in thanks Howard made his way up the grand staircase, lightly rapping on Heath's door he heard Victoria invite him in.

"Howard, thank you for coming back so soon." Stated Victoria as she rose from Heath's bed and walked over to greet him.

"How's our patient?" Questioned Howard as he walked over to the bed with Victoria.

"He's more alert but his breathing is still pretty labored." Replied Victoria as she watched the doctor pull up the chair next to Heath's bed and sit down.

Howard took out his stethoscope and listened to Heath's chest as he breathed. Both lungs still sounded very congested but not quite as bad as last evening. "Have you been able to get him to take any deep breaths or cough?" Questioned Howard as he continued to listen to Heath's chest.

"Nick managed to get him to cough a little this morning, he's also managed a few deeper breaths but they seem awfully painful." Replied Victoria.

"That's a start, but he needs to work harder. Once his lungs clear up a little more I'll be able to wrap those ribs. Just make sure he stays put for a while. Now let me change these bandages." Stated Howard as he began to inspect Heath's wounds.

As Doc Merer cleaned and redressed Heath's wounds he began to stir. "Well I must say it's nice to see you finally awake," stated Howard as Heath's eyes fluttered open.

"Hi... Doc," Heath managed in a whisper as he looked over at Howard and then to Victoria.

"How are you feeling Heath?" asked Howard as he checked the gash over Heath's eye.

"Like… I got...caught... in a ...stampede," he answered slowly.

"Can you remember anything that happened?" questioned Howard as he checked Heath's eyes.

Heath tried to remember, he could remember stopping on the road to help a man with his horse. The man had pulled a gun on him, he remembered trying to get the gun away from him before a shot went off and his side felt as though it was on fire. The last clear memory he had was seeing a very large man holding a riffle over him as he lay on the ground, but other than that everything seemed lost.

Victoria watched Heath as he lay pondering over Howard's question, she could tell by the look on his face he was trying hard to remember.

"Not... much," he finally answered exhausted from the effort.

"That's to be expected Heath, you took a mighty serious blow to the head young man." Replied Howard as he wound the clean bandage around Heath's head. "You may experience some severe headaches and some blurred vision for a time, I don't want you getting out of this bed for at least a week. Is that understood?" Replied Doctor Merer as he finished with Heath's head. "Let me just change the dressing on your leg, then I'll be all finished."

Heath clenched his teeth and closed his eyes as Doc Merer changed the bandage on his leg. The pain in his leg seemed to radiate right down to his toes. Victoria noticed the distress Heath was in and started wiping the sweat off his forehead. "He's almost done sweet heart," she said gently to him.

Howard finished with Heath's bandage and gave him some last minute instructions before leaving. "Now young man, I need you to continue taking deep breaths. This will help elevate some of the congestion in your lungs allowing you to breath easier. Coughing will also help, place a pillow across your stomach that should help with any pain. I know it's painful but in order to get better you must follow my instructions." Stated Howard before turning to Victoria. "See that you keep him quiet. Keeping his room dim will help with his head injury; try making it a little lighter each day. I'll look in on him again tomorrow afternoon."

"Thank you Howard, please plan on joining us for dinner tomorrow as well." Replied Victoria as she walked him to Heath's door.

"Thank you Victoria, I'll do just that. Don't worry I know the way out, I'll see you tomorrow." He said before walking out the door and down the hall.

Victoria closed the door and walked back over to Heath.



Nick watched as Jarrod dug yet another fence posthole, he was surprised having Jarrod around all day hadn’t been as bad as he thought. In fact it felt good having his older brother working along side him. Jarrod had managed to keep up with him just fine all day and with out a single complaint. Having his brother around helped him keep his mind off of Heath some too.

"Well Jarrod I can see working behind that desk of yours hasn’t made you too soft, yet." He joked as he handed him a canteen.

"I’ll have you know brother Nick that I can still put in a days work equal to or better than yours any day." He replied smugly while taking a drink from the canteen.

"Well we’ll just see about that!" Shouted Nick as he shook his fist at Jarrod and laughed. "What’d ya say we finish up here and head back to the ranch?"

"What’s the matter Nick, getting tired?" Jarrod asked with a smile on his face.

"Tired! I’m not tir…. oh, very funny Jarrod!" Laughed Nick as he finally caught on to Jarrod's teasing. "I just thought you might want to check in on Heath. I also promised Anna I’d try and get Jessie interested in something else besides Heath’s room tonight." Replied Nick as he took his hat off and wiped his arm across his forehead.

"Nick, I never did ask you…how did you manage to find Heath?" Jarrod asked looking up at Nick.

"I didn’t, Jessie did. He saw a campfire burning in the distance. He was so sure Heath was there." Replied Nick growing quiet.

"Can you tell me what happened?" asked Jarrod as he placed a hand on Nicks shoulder.

Nick looked into Jarrod’s eyes; he could tell his brother really wanted to understand everything that had taken place that night. "I couldn't make Jessie stay behind no matter what I said, so I finally gave in and let him follow along behind me. We were about a mile away from the campfire he spotted when a rider came up on us. We hid in the tall grass and he rode on by. Jessie told me the man’s name but I can’t remember it now." Nick replied as he shifted from foot to foot.

"As we got closer to their campsite we both got down on our hands and knees and crawled up as close as we could. That’s when I saw Heath, he was tied up to a tree just across the fire from us." Stated Nick as a lump formed in his throat. "Just as we noticed him the one Jessie calls Matt stood up and walked over to him. He took out a large knife and used it to cut Heath’s face." Nick stopped and looked up at Jarrod, his eyes showing the horror he had witnessed.

"Jarrod I didn’t know what to do, the man was so far away. I thought if I fired off a shot I’d hit Heath. That’s when I heard the most horrible gut-wrenching cry I’ve ever heard… Jarrod it was Jessie." Nick stated as he watched a shocked look appear on Jarrod’s face.

"Jessie stood up and shot the man dead center. I was so stunned I almost didn’t get a shot off at the other man in time, lucky for me he was just as shocked at Jessie’s cry as I was. I ran over to check on the man I fired upon while Jessie ran directly over to Heath. I checked to make sure the big man was dead then I ran over to check on them. As I made my way over, I saw Matt pull Jessie to the ground and began choking him." Nick stated as he looked past Jarrod and off into the distance as the awful images came flooding back.

Looking back at Jarrod, Nick continued. "Just as I got close to them Jessie drove a knife into the side of Matt’s neck. I knocked Matt off the kid but Jessie jumped on top of him grabbing for the knife. Jarrod I’ve never seen anyone move as fast as that kid did. He grabbed the knife out of the side of Matt’s neck and held it high over his head with both hands before driving down into Matt’s chest." Nick stated as he remembered the blank look on Jessie’s face.

Jarrod could see the toll all of this had taken on Nick, "I’m sorry Nick," he said as he tried to ease some of his brother’s pain.

"Jarrod, if you could have seen the look on his face…. for a moment ….I wasn’t sure it was really him." Nick replied as a single tear ran down his face. "He helped me cut Heath down and that’s when I sent him back for help."

"Nick you did the right thing," replied Jarrod, a little concerned that his brother was trying to second-guess himself. "You handled it the only way you could."

"I’m not so sure Jarrod, I should have forced Jessie to stay behind; taken him back to the ranch." Nick said as his voice trailed off.

"Nick if you’d left Jessie behind I don’t think Heath would be with us. It took both of you to save him." Replied Jarrod as he grabbed Nick’s shoulders and looked him in the eye.

"Jarrod the last thing I wanted to do was hurt that kid, but for him to see Heath like that…" Nick started but stopped.

"Nick the important thing is that you were there for him you helped him through it. And you’ll continue to help him through it." Jarrod replied as he tried to make Nick understand.

"Jarrod, what’s going to happen to him? He doesn’t have anyone." Nick stated as he looked into his brothers blue eyes.

"If the state can’t locate any of his family, he’ll become a ward of the state. I suppose he’ll be sent off to one of the state run orphanages." Replied Jarrod.

"An orphanage!" Shouted Nick, as he broke free from Jarrod’s grasp. "After all that kids been through you’d let them send him to an orphanage!" He ranted as he stomped around waving his arms.

"Nick what else would you have me do?" Asked Jarrod trying to reason with him.

"Let him stay here! With us!" Nick shouted as he placed his hands on his hips and stood looking defiantly at Jarrod.

"Nick it’s just not that easy," replied Jarrod as he tried to defuse the situation.

"Oh and I suppose sending him off to some orphanage is!" Bellowed Nick as he once again threw his hands up in the air.

"Nick there are other people we have to consider in all of this, Jessie for one. What if he doesn’t want to stay here with us?" Questioned Jarrod as he watched Nick think about his question.

"What do you mean, he wouldn’t want to stay here?" replied Nick a little uncertain of himself now.

"What I’m trying to say is we really don’t know much about him at all. What happened to his family, are you sure he has no other relatives, where is his family’s ranch? Did you ever stop to consider that he might want to go back there?" Jarrod questioned in a gentle tone.

Nick wiped his arm across his forehead and stood looking at Jarrod a moment before answering, "I guess I never thought about those things. There has to be something we can do Jarrod."

"I'll tell you what brother Nick," stated Jarrod as he clapped a hand on Nick's shoulder. "Let’s talk it over with the rest of the family before we start worrying about anything, agreed?"

"Agreed, now let’s get back to the house, I’m starved!" Replied Nick, slapping his brother on the shoulder.



Victoria watched from the hallway, as Jessie lay curled up on the loveseat next to Anna, his head was resting in her lap as she read to him. She could see the light from the fire dancing across their faces. Anna spoke in a soft voice as Jessie stared dreamily into the fire hanging on her every word.

"The Ghost replied: Pity me not, but lend thy serious hearing to what I shall unfold." Read Anna in a serious voice.

"To which Hamlet said: Speak; I am bound to hear." Said Anna as she read on.

"So art thou to revenge, when thou shalt hear. Said the Ghost."

"What? Questioned Hamlet."

"I am thy father's spirit; doom'd for a certain term to walk the night, and for the day confin'd to wastein fires, till the foul crimes done in my days of nature are burnt and purg'd away. But that I am forbid to tell the secrets of my prison-house, I could a tale unfold whose lightest word would harrow up thy soul; freeze thy young blood; make thy two eyes, like stars, start from their spheres; thy knotted and combined locks to part, and each particular hair to stand on end like quills upon the fretful porcupine: but this eternal blazon must not be to ears of flesh and blood.--List, list, O, list!-- If thou didst ever thy dear father love— Cried the Ghost."

"O God! Cried Hamlet." Anna read as Jessie sat up and looked at her.

"Revenge his foul and most unnatural murder. Cried the Ghost."

"Murder! Shouted Hamlet."

"Murder most foul, as in the best it is; but this most foul, strange, and unnatural. Was the Ghost’s reply"

"Haste me to know't, that I, with wings as swift as meditation or the thoughts of love, may sweep to my revenge. Said Hamlet."

"I find thee apt; and duller shouldst thou be than the fat weed that rots itself in ease on Lethe wharf, wouldst thou not stir in this. Now, Hamlet, hear. 'Tis given out that, sleeping in my orchard, a serpent stung me; so the whole ear of Denmark is by a forged process of my death rankly abus'd; but know, thou noble youth, the serpent that did sting thy father's life now wears his crown. The Ghost told Hamlet."

"O my prophetic soul! Mine uncle! Cried Hamlet."

"Oh Anna how could Hamlet’s uncle do such an awful thing!" Cried Jessie as he looked up at her.

"Jessie, sometimes when someone wants something so badly they don’t think with a clear head. They almost forget the difference between right and wrong." She replied while caressing his cheek. "They may even hurt the ones they love."

"I would never do anything like that," stated Jessie confidently.

"No I don’t think you would Jessie, I don’t think you would." Anna replied as she watched his eyes sparkle.

"Good afternoon Anna, Jessie," stated Victoria as she made her way into the living room and sat down in a chair across from them. "May I ask what you’re reading?"

"Anna’s reading Hamlet to me Mrs. Barkley," replied Jessie excitedly. "She’s really good at it too!" He added looking up at Anna.

"From what little I heard I’d have to agree with you on that Jessie," replied Victoria with a smile.

"OK that’s enough from both of you," laughed Anna as she started to blush.

"Jessie I was wondering if you’d mind doing me a favor?" asked Victoria.

"Sure Mrs. Barkley," came Jessie’s speedy reply.

"Would you mind going in the kitchen and letting Silas know that Heath is awake? I thought the two of you might like to take him up some broth." Victoria told him as she watched a huge smile spread across his face.

"Boy will I!" He shouted jumping up and rushing over to Victoria hugging her. "Thanks Mrs. Barkley!" He shouted as he ran towards the kitchen.

"I do believe you just made him about the happiest boy around Victoria," said Anna as she smiled and closed the book.

Standing up Victoria walked over to the loveseat and sat down next to Anna. Taking her hand she began, "Anna I wanted to thank you for everything."

"Please Mrs. Barkley you don’t have to..." Anna started.

"Anna dear but I do, Nick told me what happened out there. I also know that without your help our Heath wouldn’t be here today." Said Victoria as her voice started to show the emotion she felt. "I can only imagine what you had to go through and not to mention the awful stress it must have put on you. I owe you an awful lot." She added as a tear fell down her cheek.

Anna reached out and drew Victoria close, the two women hugged one another and shared a good cry before separating and wiping their tears. "I’m not really all that brave…I was scared to death the entire time." Stated Anna as she looked into Victoria’s eyes. "I was so afraid of losing him after just finding him," added Anna as fresh tears threatened to flow from her eyes. "I knew if I let him see me upset it would only make him feel worse, and I just couldn’t bear that."

"Oh Anna, don’t you see how much your being there for him helped? He fought for you Anna and for us, but I think it was his feelings for you that really pulled him through." Replied Victoria as she squeezed Anna’s hands.

Anna could see the sincerity and love in Victoria’s eyes, "Thank you Victoria." She said Quietly as she squeezed her hands back.

"Why don’t we go and see how Silas and Jessie are making out." Offered Victoria as she rose from the loveseat and offered her hand out to Anna.

"I think that’s a fine idea," smiled Anna as she took Victoria’s hand and followed her into the kitchen.

"Silas!" Hollered Jessie as he ran full speed towards the kitchen, bursting through the door he ran right into Silas.

Catching the boy in his arms Silas said, "Why Jessie if I didn’t know better I’d swear the house was on fire." He joked trying to calm Jessie down.

"Sorry Silas, it’s just that Mrs. Barkley said Heath was awake and that I could take some soup up to him with you!" He replied excitedly. "Come on let’s go!" He said while trying to drag Silas towards the back stairs.

"Calm down son, don’t you think we’d better take some of that soup with us?" Questioned Silas as he tried to get Jessie to simmer down some. "You go run in the dinning room and get me a bowl, OK?" Silas laughed to himself as he watched Jessie rush out of the room, "That boy sure does take to Mr. Heath."

Silas had just started the broth warming when Jessie came rushing back into the kitchen, "Here you go Silas, can we go up now?" He asked as he handed Silas the bowl.

"The soup will be ready shortly, why don’t you help me fix the tray." Replied Silas as he tried to keep the excited child at ease.

Jessie helped Silas gather everything for the tray, Silas had to calm Jessie down more than once. "If that boy don’t slow down he’s gonna come clean out a his skin," thought Silas as he smiled at Jessie.

"Is it done yet?" Asked Jessie more as a sigh than a question.

Silas shook his head as he walked over to the stove; filling the bowl with the warm broth he placed it on the tray and followed Jessie up the back stairs.

Jessie was waiting patiently in front of Heath’s door by the time Silas made it up the stairs and down the long hallway. Quietly knocking on the door they heard Audra’s voice invite them inside.

"Good afternoon Miss Audra," Stated Silas as he walked across the room and placed the tray down on the night table.

"Afternoon Silas," replied Audra as she rose up out of the chair next to Heath. "Hi Jessie, I know somebody that’s been wondering about you." She stated as she smiled over at Heath and then at Silas.

Jessie walked up to the side of Heath’s bed and almost jumped for joy when he saw Heath reach his hand out to him. "Hi Heath!" he shouted as he took his hand. Noticing Heath flinch slightly at his loud greeting, Jessie apologized. "Sorry Heath, I didn’t mean to shout so loud," he said as he hung his head.

"Hey none…of that," Heath managed in a horse voice as he squeezed Jessie’s hand. "I’m happy to…see you…to." He added as he tried to smile.

Jessie lifted up his head and smiled at his friend, "Silas and me brought you some soup," he said in a quieter but still very excited voice. "Want some?" He asked almost jumping up and down at the chance to help Heath.

"Sure I’m …starved," came the horse reply. "You offering…to help?" Heath asked slowly. He already knew the answer; he could see how excited Jessie was just being in the room. It was good seeing him this way, he’d been afraid the boy might withdraw from everyone after everything he witnessed.

"Is it OK if I do?" asked Jessie as he looked from Heath to Silas.

"If’n you don’t spill any on Mr. Heath," replied Silas as he picked up the bowl.

"Here Jessie, let me help you up on the bed," stated Audra as she picked him up and placed him next to Heath. "There now you can reach no problem," she added with a smile. "You boys have fun, I’ll catch you later big brother," replied Audra as she first ruffled Jessie’s hair then bent down to give Heath a kiss on his cheek.

"Later Sis," replied Heath as he attempted to give her a lopsided grin.

Silas handed Jessie the bowl, "now take it slow, just a little at a time." Silas told him as he watched Jessie carefully ease the spoon towards Heath’s mouth. Ever so gently the little boy slowly feed his friend the broth, he was beside himself with joy as he watched Heath slowly eat the soup.

Heath finally said he’d had enough about half way through the bowl but Jessie encouraged him to take a few more spoonfuls, much to Silas’s delight. "Jessie if I…eat another…bite it’s gonna…come out my stitches," Heath said slowly before smiling at Jessie.

"It won’t really…will it Silas?" Jessie asked with a puzzled look on his face as Silas started to laugh.

"No child, it’s just Mr. Heath’s way of letting you know he’s done." Replied Silas as he took the bowl out of Jessie’s hands and winked at Heath.

"No fair teasing," Jessie stated as he smiled at his friend. "How’s your head feeling?" He asked as he inspected the bandages wrapped around Heath’s head.

"Better," Heath replied as he watched Jessie check him over.

"Looks awful sore to me," Jessie said as he continued to stare at the bandages.

"How are you …feeling," Heath asked hoarsely as Jessie looked him in the eyes.

"Fine I guess," came the halfhearted response. "I only got a few bruises," he added as he showed Heath his neck.

"No Jessie…I mean… in here," he said as he laid his hand over Jessie’s heart.

Jessie looked into Heath’s eyes; he could see himself reflected in the soft blue pools. But how could he tell him how he was really feeling he couldn’t hurt him any more, he just couldn’t. "Fine, really," he replied as he turned his head away from Heath. "God why is it so hard to lie to him!" His mind screamed out at him.

Heath knew Jessie was trying to cover up the truth, "I can’t let him keep all that inside it’ll just eat away at him." Thought Heath as he tried to reach Jessie again, "Jessie please…tell me."

"I can’t Heath, I just can’t!" He shouted as he jumped off the bed and ran from the room.

"Jessie," Heath tried to call out, only to have it rewarded by a coughing fit.

Silas rushed over and tried to help Heath as the coughing caused him to double over in pain. "Relax Heath, it’ll only hurt more if’n you don’t," stated Silas as he tried to comfort Heath.

Slowly Heath started to relax and his breathing returned to a more normal state, "Silas…please find…him," he said wearily before closing his eyes.

"I’ll find him Mr. Heath, you just go ahead and rest now," replied Silas as he pulled the covers up over him. Rushing downstairs Silas explained to Mrs. Barkley and Anna what happened with Jessie, as the two of them rushed upstairs to sit with Heath; Silas set out to look for Jessie.

The inside of the barn was growing darker as the sun began its journey below the horizon. The quietness of the barn was disturbed by a small voice sobbing in the darkness, "How could I be so mean?" Jessie sobbed as he rubbed Charger’s nose. "I didn’t want to hurt him Charger, but I did. I just couldn’t face him and lie to him." He continued to cry. "He’s up there because of me! It should have been me Charger, it should have been me!" He wailed as he slowly sank down into the hay. "Please let me stay Mamma, please…I want to stay with you. Please Mamma, please…"

Jessie never heard the two silent figures as they made their way into the barn. He was also unaware that they had heard everything he said and were deeply shaken.

Turning to look at Jarrod his eyes wide, Nick quietly asked, "Tell me he’s not saying what I think he is?"

Almost afraid to confirm Nick’s thoughts Jarrod finally answered, "I think he is Nick, I think he is."

Nick wasn’t about to stand for it, he wasn’t going to stand by and let Jessie wish he were dead. Some way some how he had to make the boy see how much he was needed, how much he was loved. Nick stood and listened to the boy’s anguished cries, he loved this child, just as much if not more than if he were his very own flesh and blood.

Taking a quick glance at Jarrod, Nick turned and ran towards Charger’s stall. In the fading light he could just see the outline of the small boy. Dropping to his knees he gently lifted the sobbing child out of the hay and cradled him in his arms. "Jessie," Nick said gently as he wiped the boys hair from his eyes. "It’s Nick and Jarrod."

Jessie rubbed his eyes as he tried to look at Nick through the darkness, "Nick?" he asked as his sobs subsided some.

"Jarrod, get the lantern." Stated Nick as he continued to hold Jessie close. "Yes Jessie, it’s Nick. What happened, why are you out here?" Asked Nick as he tried to figure out what was wrong.

As the light in the barn was turned up, Jessie could now see the concerned look on Nick’s face as he awaited an answer to his question. "Now I’ve gone and done it, not only have I upset Heath I managed to hurt Nick and Jarrod too." Thought Jessie as fresh tears started to well up in his eyes.

"It’s all right Jessie, you can tell me." Nick said as he saw what appeared to be shame in Jessie’s eyes.

"I’m sorry Nick, I didn’t mean to hurt him." Cried Jessie as he looked away from Nick.

"Didn’t mean to hurt who Jessie?" Asked Nick as he looked over at Jarrod who was now kneeling next to him.

"Heath, I didn’t mean to hurt Heath!" He cried, as he looked first at Jarrod and then back at Nick.

"Jessie you didn’t hurt Heath, far from it." Stated Jarrod as he placed his hand on Jessie’s shoulder.

"I did! I didn’t want to, but I did!" He shouted at them.

"How Jessie, how do you think you hurt Heath?" Questioned Jarrod as he gripped Jessie’s shoulder tighter.

"I couldn’t tell him the truth; it would a hurt him too much. I just couldn’t!" He cried desperately trying to make Nick and Jarrod understand.

"The truth? The truth about what?" Asked Nick, turning Jessie’s head so he could look him in the eyes.

"Jessie, what couldn’t you tell Heath? Were you with him just now?" Asked Jarrod as he began to understand the problem.

Jessie shook his head yes as he looked up at Jarrod, "Mrs. Barkley let me help Silas with some soup for Heath. After he was done eatin’ we started talking, he asked me how I was but when I told him he didn’t believe me." Cried Jessie as he stared up at the two brothers. "He asked me how I felt here," he stated as he touched Nicks chest just over his heart.

"Well that doesn’t sound so bad," replied Nick.

"I couldn’t tell him how I really felt I couldn’t lie to him. Don’t you see he’d know and that would only hurt him more so I ran out. I’m sorry, I’m so sorry." He cried as Nick and Jarrod turned towards one another.

"Jessie, Heath was only concerned about you. He wanted to make sure you were all right." Replied Jarrod as he squeezed Jessie’s shoulder.

"But it would only make him sad if I told him I was too." Replied Jessie coming out more as a big sob than actual words.

"No it wouldn’t Jessie, it would have made him feel special. Just knowing that you trusted him enough to tell him how you really felt." Replied Nick as he stood Jessie up.

"Jessie, Heath knows that if you’re honest with him things will work out. But if you try and hide something from him well then everything may not be as it seems. And that will only cause him to worry more." Stated Jarrod as he dusted some of the hay off Jessie’s cloths.

"So if I told him I was feeling bad then it would make him feel good?" Questioned Jessie, a little puzzled by Jarrod’s comment.

"Well not exactly good," laughed Nick, "but better."

"How about we go inside and have ourselves a little chat with Heath? What a ya say?" Asked Jarrod as he placed his hat on top of Jessie’s head.

"You don’t think he’ll be mad at me?" Questioned Jessie as he pushed the rather large hat back on his head so he could see.

"He’ll be glad to see you!" Shouted Nick as he grabbed Jessie and put him up on his shoulders. "Come on Jarrod, we’ve got a little brother to go check up on!" Shouted Nick as he walked towards the barn door.

Jessie rode tall and proud with a huge smile on his face across the yard and into the house on Nick’s shoulders.

"Mr. Jessie! I’ve been lookin’ all over the house for you!" Exclaimed Silas as the trio stomped into the house. "Where you been?"

Nick lowered Jessie to the floor in front of Silas, "I’m sorry I was out in the barn." Replied Jessie as he looked down at his feet.

Putting his hand under the boy’s chin, Silas lifted up his head so he could see his eyes. "Well don’t you be doin’ that again Mr. Jessie! You plum near gave me a heart attack!" Stated Silas before drawing the boy in for a hug.

"I promise Silas, next time I’ll let you know where I’m runnin’ too." Jessie replied with a smile.

"Silas, is Mother around?" Asked Jarrod as he looked around the foyer.

"She’s up stairs with Mr. Heath and Miss Audra." Replied Silas, "Mr. Heath’s awake if you wanna go on up."

"That’s exactly what we had planned to do Silas, thank you." Said Jarrod before making his way up the stairs closely followed by Jessie and Nick.



Well it’s about time you opened those eyes, boy!" Exclaimed Nick as he, Jarrod and Jessie walked into Heath’s room.

"Nicholas, lower your voice," replied Victoria as she walked over and greeted the three some. Bending down in front of Jessie and taking his hands she said, "I’m glad your back Jessie, Heath’s been worried about you. Why don’t you go up and talk to him for a moment." Stated Victoria, standing up and taking his small hand in hers as she led him over to the bed.

Jessie’s stomach felt as though it would pop out of his mouth at any moment. His grip on Victoria’s hand tightened as they reached the side of Heath’s bed. Slowly lifting his gaze from the floor, he looked up to find Heath smiling at him. His heart immediately went out to his friend as he clamored up onto the bed.

"I’m sorry Heath, I didn’t mean to hurt you." Said Jessie as he lowered his gaze.

"Sorry little…guy, I don’t know…what you’re talking about." Replied Heath slowly as he took Jessie’s hand in his own.

Jessie didn’t quite understand what Heath was saying and just sat staring at him with his mouth hanging open.

"You tryin’ to catch…flies?" questioned Heath as he joked with the boy.

"Huh…No, I mean…" started Jessie before a large smile spread across his face. "I wouldn’t eat a fly," he laughed.

"Didn’t think …you would," replied Heath as he squeezed Jessie’s hand. "Just like…you wouldn’t hurt…anybody on…purpose, right?" He asked as Jessie watched him intently.

Jessie could see the sparkle in Heath’s eyes; he knew his friend was trying to tell him everything was going to be all right. But he still needed to get something off of his chest and the only way he could do that was to talk to Heath.

"I was scared Heath, I didn’t want to hurt you by telling you how I really felt." Jessie said as he looked at Heath.

"Can you tell…me now?" Asked Heath, realizing that Jessie needed to talk in order to feel better.

Jessie looked down at Heath and shook his head, "I feel like its all my fault, if in you never met me you’d be OK now. Seems every where I go bad things happen, I’m scared Heath." Said Jessie quietly.

Heath could see by the expression on Jessie’s face and the tone in his voice how hard this was for him. "Jessie, none of …this is your… fault." Replied Heath before taking a moment to catch his breath. "I’m glad I…met you, I’d…do it all… again. You mean…a lot to me…more than you …know."

Jessie’s eyes welled up with tears as he listened to his friend’s raspy voice. If he turned his head and looked at the others in the room he would have seen the same tears welling up in their eyes as well. "I love you Heath," he said as the tears flowed freely down his cheeks.

Reaching up and touching Jessie’s cheek, Heath said four words that made their way straight into Jessie’s heart; "I love you too."

Jessie lay his head down on Heath’s shoulder and cried as Heath wrapped his arm around the child and held him close.

Victoria turned around to face the others in the room, "Why don’t we give them a few moments alone." She stated as she started to usher them out. Before closing the door she turned back to look at Heath, "thank you," she said quietly as she smiled at him.

Walking down the front staircase, Victoria could hear voices coming from the living room.

"He’s really beginning to pick up some Mother," Stated Nick as he walked over and escorted Victoria into the room.

"Yes he is," she replied with a smile as they walked across the room. "I only hope he doesn’t try and over do it."

"Don’t worry Mother, I won’t have him breaking any horses for at least another week!" Exclaimed Nick as a smile snuck across his face.

"You’ll do no such thing!" Stated Victoria as she playfully swatted Nick’s arm.

"Well Mother, you know Heath I’m surprised you’ve managed to keep him in bed this long." Laughed Jarrod as he tipped his drink towards Victoria. Turning his attention towards Anna, Jarrod added, "Anna you’ll soon learn that shy quiet brother of ours isn’t one for bed rest."

"He may be my quietest brother, but he’s definitely the most stubborn." Exclaimed Audra as she smiled at Anna.

The next half hour went by quickly as the gay spirit in the room reflected the mood everyone was feeling. "Mrs. Barkley, dinner is ready." Stated Silas as he walked into the living room.

"Thank you Silas, we’ll be right in." Replied Victoria as she rose from he chair. "Nick would you go up stairs and bring Jessie down? Tell Heath I’ll be right up."

"Mrs. Barkley…. Victoria, would you mind if I sat with Heath?" Asked Anna as she jumped up off the loveseat. "I’m not really hungry right now."

Jarrod and Audra smiled at one another as they watched Anna’s enthusiasm.

"That would be fine dear," Victoria replied as she reached out for Anna’s hand. "I think it’s time you two spent a little time alone with one another any how," she whispered quietly into Anna’s ear.

"Thank you," Anna replied as she hugged Victoria before walking towards the stairs. "Are you coming Nick?" She asked, turning around to look at him.

"Oh yeah right, Jessie." He stated as he put down his glass and followed her up the stairs as the rest of the family headed off towards the dinning room.

Anna knocked softly on Heath’s door before entering with Nick. As they made their way over towards the bed they both stopped and smiled at the sight before them. Jessie’s head lay in the nook of Heath’s shoulder; his arm was draped across Heath’s chest, as he lay sound asleep. Heath had his arm wrapped around the child as he too slept.

Nick took Anna’s hand as he spoke, "looks like you have two sleeping children instead of one." He commented as he smiled at her.

"Seems to me Mr. Barkley that there are three children in this room." Anna replied with a laugh as she pulled Nick over to the bed. "Do you mind taking him down for dinner? He really should eat something." Stated Anna as she ran her hand through Jessie’s hair.

"Don’t worry, I’m sure Jarrod and I can get him to eat." Replied Nick as he bent over and picked up the sleeping child.

Jessie started to stir as Nick shifted him in his arms. "Where we going?" He asked as he rubbed his eyes.

"Down for dinner, if you eat I’ll bring you back up later with Jarrod and I to visit Heath. But only if you eat." Stated Nick as he let Jessie down.

"OK," replied Jessie with a sigh, "I’ll be back later Anna." He added as Nick took his hand and led him to the door.

Anna watched as Nick and Jessie made their way out of the room and closed the door behind them. Turning her attention back to Heath, she moved the chair up next to his bed and sat down. Reaching her hand up and across the bed she began gently stroking his hair. He looked so peaceful when he slept, his breathing was still labored but it had been improving throughout the day. His face still reflected the awful beating he received but she could see the color starting to return to his cheeks.

"Well Mr. Barkley," she said quietly as she brushed her hand across his cheek. "You sure do know how to keep a lady in suspense," she added smiling. "If I didn’t know better, I’d say you were pretty used to teasing women."

Although his eyes were still closed Anna felt Heath’s arm move. Taking his hand in her own she could feel him squeeze her hand. "You rest love, I’ll be right here when you wake up." She told him softly as she bent over and kissed him on the check. She laid her head next to his arm on the bed as she held onto his hand. She was happy just being near him, watching his chest rise and fall as he rested was a wonderful sight. She remembered those horrible moments from two nights ago when his chest stopped rising, she couldn’t imagine a life without him.

"I’m not going anywhere, Heath." She whispered softly as she squeezed his hand, "unless it’s with you." She added as she watched his chest rise and fall, rise and fall.

The next few days passed by slowly for Heath Barkley, being cooped up indoors and bedridden was not something he enjoyed. He missed the outdoors; all the sounds and smells floating through his open window didn’t help at all. He longed to have the sun on his face, to feel the breeze blow over him as he rode high on Charger. Right now he’d even settle for being able to go out and dig irrigation ditches.

He was also becoming upset with his recovery; his ribcage was slow to heal. It was still a struggle just sitting up, and that wasn’t even figuring in the pain it caused him when he stood up. The first time he managed to slide his legs over the side of the bed and actually attempt to stand he was rewarded by a dizzy spell that caused him to black out.

Heath was sure Victoria was going to have him tied to the bed she had been so upset with him. She lectured him for over an hour on how careless his actions had been, she’d asked him why he was trying to undue all the healing he’d all ready gone through in one careless moment? It took a while but Heath was finally able to assure her that he wouldn’t try anything like that again unless he had Nick or Jarrod’s help.

Heath’s other concern had been Jessie; that boy was constantly sneaking in his room to be with him. Not that Heath minded, he enjoyed Jessie’s company, but he did feel that it would do the boy some good to get outside and act like a child for a while. It dawned on him just the other day how to accomplish it, he asked Jessie to take care of Charger for him. That meant feeding him, grooming, and exercising him. For exercise he could either ride in the corral or follow Nick out for a morning around the ranch. It worked like a charm; the smile on Jessie’s face when he asked the boy to take care of Charger was priceless. From everything both Nick and Jessie told him things seemed to progressing along just fine around the ranch with out him.

The only part about being cooped up inside he truly enjoyed was all the time Anna spent with him; he never tired of her company. She was the best medicine for him, her smile lit up the room when she was near him. They talked for hours about all different kinds of things, from his life in Strawberry to hers growing up in Boston. She never made him feel like less of a man for growing up the way he did. She had a way of turning the bad things that happened to him around and making them appear as if they happened that way only to teach him some valuable lesson for later on in his life.

He enjoyed listening to her life in Boston, he had laughed so hard when she told him she always felt like a fish out of water there that he ended up coughing so hard he had to lie down and rest for a while. Later that day she told him it wasn’t until coming out west that she truly felt at home. It was amazing how quickly you could fall in love with a place, a way of life. She felt there was no place on earth quite like the valley, there was so much beauty here, and there was no other place she’d rather be.

Propping himself up in bed, Heath tried to look out his window. The sun was shinning and the afternoon breeze was warm as it found it’s way inside his room. As he listened to the noises coming from the outside world he could hear Jessie’s laughter floating in with the breeze. It’s joyous sound brought a smile to his face, slowly pulling back his covers he eased his injured leg over the side of the bed. Sliding his other leg over he managed to get both of his feet on the floor, pushing off of the bed with his arms and not his stomach muscles he was able to stand. He stood still for a few moments regaining his breath and taking some time to make sure another dizzy spell didn’t come along. Just as he was about to take a step forward he heard his bedroom door open.

"Heath Barkley!" Shouted Anna as she came into his room carrying a tray. "Just where do you think you’re going? Sit back down on that bed this instant!" She told him as she placed the tray on his bed and hurried over to his side. Taking his arm she helped him ease back down to a sitting position.

"Heath you promised you wouldn’t get out of that bed unless there was someone here to help you," stated Anna as she stood in front of him with her hands on her hips.

Heath looked at her standing in front of him and started laughing. He couldn’t help himself; he knew it was bound to upset her but he just couldn’t stop.

"What’s so funny?" Questioned Anna, as she watched Heath continue to laugh and clutch his sides. "Heath!" She added loudly becoming more and more impatient with him.

Calming down and catching his breath he finally managed to answer her, "well it’s just that you looked so much like Mother standing there in front of me, it felt like I just got caught sticking my hand in the candy jar." He replied as he chuckled.

"Heath Barkley, your… well your just…" she couldn’t finish as she too burst out laughing. Sitting down next to him on the bed she put her arm around his back and rested her head on his upper arm. "It’s good to hear you laugh again," she said as she rubbed his back.

"I just wish it didn’t hurt so much," he replied as he rubbed his stomach and smiled at her.

"Well Mr. Barkley, just what was so important that it made you get out of bed all alone?" asked Anna as she took his hand.

"It was nothing really," Heath said as he looked out the window.

"Heath, it was too something. If you tell me I promise not to laugh," she said as she smiled up at him with a twinkle in her eye.

Heath looked over at her and returned the smile, "I guess I’m just tired of being cooped up inside. I heard Jessie laughing and just…. just wanted to watch I guess." He replied with a sigh as he turned his head back towards the window.

Anna could see the sadness held within his eyes as she watched him gaze out the window. Thinking quickly she jumped up and walked around to the other side of the bed. Grabbing the top of the wingback chair she began to slide it across the room, only stopping when it was in front of the open window. Walking back to Heath, she held out her hand to him. "Come on how about trying to walk with a little help this time." She said as she waited for him to take her hand.

"Anna are you sure?" He questioned as he placed his hand in hers.

"Yes, I figure if you fall at least you’ll land on me and I’m bound to be softer than the floor." She said jokingly.

Using Anna’s strength and his own he slowly stood up from the bed. Anna moved around to his side and placed his arm over her shoulders, she then wrapped her arm around his waist. The two slowly made their way over to the window and the awaiting chair. Anna helped Heath ease into the chair with out much discomfort at all.

"Thanks Anna," stated Heath as he looked up at her from the chair.

"Well Mr. Barkley as long as your happy then I suppose I am too," she replied with a warm smile.

"Here, sit down," he said as he patted his good leg.

"Heath, I don’t…." she began before he cut her off.

"You’re not going to hurt me Anna, please?" He said as he smiled at her.

How could she resist that smile, it lit up his entire face. She sat down gently trying not to lean back on him or sit on his other leg at all.

Heath took his arms wrapped them around her, and carefully pulled her back into him so her back was resting on his chest. He held onto her tightly as they both sat together quietly and watched the world go by outside their window. He felt some how better just having her close to him, the feel of her body on his made him relax. The smell of her hair, of her was intoxicating; he never wanted this moment to end. But one loud bellow from Nick broke through their quiet afternoon.

"JESSIE!….. JESSIE!" Bellowed Nick as he stormed out of the barn his spurs jingling. "JESSIE! When I get my hands on you boy!" He ranted as he walked around towards the coral.

"I wonder what’s got him in such and uproar?" Questioned Heath as Anna began to laugh. "What’s so funny?"

"Just look at him Heath, he’s covered in mud." She laughed as she watched Nick storm around the grounds.

"You don’t think…" Heath began as he joined Anna in a good laugh.

Anna looked at Heath as they both laughed and came up with the same idea, "Jessie must a been playing a joke on Nick." Laughed Anna as she wiped a tear off her cheek.

"And from the sounds of it Nick’s not to happy with him," added Heath as he winced from the pain all the laughing was causing him.

"JESSIE! You come out here right now!" Shouted an angry Nick as he came back around the barn into view.

"Nick! I thought this was a working ranch. What are you doing playing in the mud?" Shouted Heath as he watched Nick look up at them.

"This is all your fault!" Nick shouted up to them as he waved a muddy fist in the air. "I’ll bet you put him up to this! When I get my hands on him…." Nick shouted as he started over towards the pump to wash himself off.

Anna and Heath looked at one another and laughed again as they heard Nick washing the mud off while at the same time cursing Jessie.

Seeing motion out of the corner of her eye, Anna looked towards the barn. "Heath look up in the loft," Anna said as she pointed her finger out the window.

Following her finger as a guide Heath started to laugh again, there sitting up in the loft waving at them was Jessie. "Why that little sneak," said Heath as he hugged Anna. "Nick’s gonna have his hide."

"And just who was it that taught him how to play these pranks, Mr. Barkley?" Asked Anna as she turned her head towards his and placed her arm gently around his neck.

"Anna, do you seriously think I would teach him such a thing?" Joked Heath as he placed a kiss on her cheek.

"Don’t give me that innocent act Mister Barkley," she replied as she touched his nose with her finger.

"Why Miss Holden, if I didn’t know better I’d say you don’t believe me." He stated with a smile as he hugged her tight.

"Let’s just say I’ve seen the look you get in your eyes when you know you can pull something over on Nick." She replied with a smile.

Heath just chuckled and held her close as she laid her head next to his so their cheeks were touching. They sat that way, together, for another half an hour. That was until Nick started shouting outside their window again.

"There you are!" he shouted as he spotted Jessie coming out of the barn. "Get over here! I wanna talk to you!" He added as he pointed his gloved finger at Jessie.

Jessie took off like a shot, he ran straight out of the barn and into the back door of the house. Nick was after him in an instant, Heath and Anna heard the back door slam once and then twice. They could hear Silas faintly hollering at someone in the kitchen and heavy footsteps rushing up the back stairs.

"Get back here!" Nick’s loud voice could be heard shouting as he pounded up the back steps.

Anna stood up just as Heath’s door flew open and Jessie came barreling inside. Seeing Anna over by the window, Jessie ran straight over and hid behind her skirt as Nick made his way into the room.

"Where is he!" Nick shouted as he walked across the room towards Anna. "I got a few things I need to discuss with him!"

"Nick, he’s just a child. What could he have possibly done?" Questioned Anna as she smiled at Nick innocently.

"You know exactly what he did!" Shouted Nick as he placed his hands on his hips.

"Now Nick," began Heath before Nick cut him off.

"You stay out a this! You probably put him up to this in the first place!" Shouted Nick as he pointed his finger at Heath.

"He did not!" Stated Jessie as he stepped out from behind Anna.

"Ah ha! There you are!" shouted Nick as he took a step towards Jessie.

Jessie quickly ducked back behind the protection of Anna’s skirt. "You leave him be, Nicholas Barkley!" Anna stated as she made a stand in front of him. "I’ll have a talk with him and I’m sure he’ll clean up any mess he’s made." She added as Nick took a step backwards.

"Better not argue with her big brother, she’s got a mean left hook." Snickered Heath as he watched the confrontation.

Nick frowned at Heath before turning his attention back towards Anna. Her face was set and he could tell there was no way she was going to back down. "Well you better give him a good talking too! Because the next time I’ll be the one doing the talking!" Stated Nick before he turned around and stormed out of the room slamming the door behind him.

Heath and Anna giggled as they heard Nick hollering something about small boys and little brothers as he stomped down the stairs.

"Well I’d say you won that round," joked Heath as he took Anna’s hand.

Anna smiled at his remark, "I guess I did didn’t I." She laughed.

"Hey Heath your out a bed!" Exclaimed Jessie as he moved in front of him.

"Yup, Anna here thought some fresh air might do me some good. Now tell me exactly what did you do to ole Nick out there?" Heath questioned.

"Well he dunked me in the horse troth yesterday so I figured to get him back is all." Replied Jessie as he looked between Anna and Heath.

"And just how did you get him back?" Asked Anna as she sat down on the arm of the chair.

"Well I placed a bucket of water over the barn door and when he walked in it fell on him." Exclaimed Jessie with a gleam in his eye.

"But how did he get all covered in mud?" questioned Heath.

"When the water fell on him he slipped in the mud it made on the floor, when he tried to get up again he slipped again." Giggled Jessie as he remembered Nick rolling around on the barn floor trying to get up out of the mud.

"Jessie, you didn’t." Laughed Anna as she tried to keep a straight face.

"Uh huh, I did." He said as a smile crept across his face.

Both Anna and Heath laughed out loud as they pictured Nick wallowing around in the mud. Regaining their self-control, Heath told Jessie he should apologize to Nick.

"But he didn’t say he was sorry for dunking me!" Came Jessie’s hurt reply.

"But that still doesn’t make it right, you’d be the bigger man if you apologized first." Replied Anna as she placed her hand on his shoulder.

Jessie thought hard about her words; she was so much like his Mamma. She would have used those exact words on him herself. "OK, I’ll apologize to him."

"I knew you’d do the right thing." She stated as she hugged him. "Now how about helping me get this cowboy over here back into that bed of his?" She asked with a smile.

With Jessie on one side and Anna on the other, Heath slowly rose up out of the chair. He was actually grateful to be heading back to bed; all the laughing he’d done this afternoon had really tired him out.

"Thanks you two," Heath said as Anna helped him pull up the covers.

"Your welcome Mr. Barkley," replied Anna as she kissed his cheek. "You rest for a while, I’ll be back up later with some fresh broth." She added as she picked up the tray and made her way to the door.

"See ya later Heath!" Shouted Jessie as he waved and followed Anna out the door.

Heath laid his head back and closed his eyes. As his body began to relax he let his mind wander back to the events of the past afternoon. Back to the feeling he had when he held Anna close, as that feeling spread over him he drifted off into a peaceful sleep.

"It’s your move Papa," stated Jessie as he watched his father from across the checkerboard.

"Give me a second," replied James as he sat stroking his chin.

Jessie shifted back and forth anxiously in his chair as he waited for his father to move. If his father took the bait, he’d have him in just two more moves.

"Jessie quite squirming, if I didn’t know better I’d say you were up to something," laughed James as he moved one of his pieces.

Jessie smiled and quickly made his move, he smiled to himself, his father had taken the bait and the game would soon be his.

"That sure was fast," commented James as he noticed the smile on his son’s face.

"Jessie love, is there something wrong with your pants?" Asked Mary as she watched him squirm around in his chair.

"No Mamma," Jessie replied as his face started to turn red from embarrassment.

"Are you sure?" She questioned as she winked at her husband.

"Really Mamma there fine, I’m just waiting for Papa to move is all." Replied Jessie as he tried to force himself to sit still. But sitting still was proving to be extremely difficult; after all he hardly ever beat his father in a game of checkers. The anticipation of finally doing so was almost more than he could handle.

Jessie watched as his father moved his piece, his hand was up and moving his own piece almost before his father had finished his move. "Your turn again Papa."

Mary laughed to herself as she watched her husband and son play. She knew how much Jessie loved spending time with his father. That boy thought the world of James, it never mattered what they did or where they went as long as they were together they were happy. It made her heart joyous as she watched the special bond the two shared, it was one any other father and son would be envious of.

"Well it looks like you’ve got me cornered son," stated James as he looked over the checkerboard. "I guess that explains why those pant you have on seemed to have shrunk two sizes since we sat down," laughed James before his laugh turned into a long coughing bought.

"You Ok Papa?" questioned a concerned Jessie as he stood up from the table.

"I’m fine, just seems that little tickle is back," replied James as he threw his son a smile. "All right I guess I’ve put this off long enough," he stated as he moved his checker right into Jessie’s trap. "Go ahead, you earned it," he stated leaning back in his chair.

Jessie picked up his checker and jumped his father’s remaining pieces. "I win Papa!" He commented with a smile.

"Nice game son," replied James as he made his way around the table placing a hand on Jessie’s shoulder. "You’re getting quite good, I think I just may have taught you too well." Added James as he ruffled Jessie’s hair.

"Wanna play again Papa?" asked Jessie as he began to set up the board.

"I think it’s time for you to get up to bed young man, we’ve got a busy day ahead of us tomorrow." Replied James as he looked down at his son.

"Ahh Papa," exclaimed Jessie looking up at his father.

"None of that now," stated James as he pulled Jessie’s chair out from the table. "Run over and give your Mamma a kiss, then scoot." Added James as he playfully swatted Jessie on his rear.

"Night Mamma," exclaimed Jessie as he wrapped his arms around her and hugged her tight.

"Good night Jessie," replied Mary as she kissed the top of his head.

Jessie walked up next to his father and threw his arms around him, "Night Papa," he said as he held on to his father.

"Good night son," replied James as he returned his son’s hug. "Now run along, we’ve got us an early morning tomorrow."

Walking out of the kitchen Jessie crossed through the living room and headed up the stairs, it didn’t take him long at all to wash up and brush his teeth. As he walked down the hall to his and Thomas’s room he checked in on his two little sisters. As he quietly opened the door and entered he could see them both sleeping peacefully in their double bed together. Mary Beth had her blanket up next to her cheek wrapped around one hand, and the thumb on her other hand was stuck in her mouth.

Jessie chuckled to himself at the condition of his baby sister’s blanket. There really wasn’t that much left of it, she had been carrying it everywhere she went for as long as he could remember. He couldn’t remember a time where he’d ever seen her with out it. She sure was a cute little kid with all of that blonde hair and those big blue eyes. Jessie often wondered how she got all that blonde hair since his Papa’s and his was brown while Mamma, Thomas and Carrie’s hair was red.
Mamma just said that God worked in mysterious ways that was always Mamma’s answer when she really didn’t have one.

Carrie had her mended dolly cuddled up next to her under her arm. Jessie could see the stitch marks where Mamma had sewn her head back on. Poor Carrie, Thomas was always doing something to one or more of her dolls.

Jessie carefully bent over and placed a kiss on each of his sister’s heads before continuing on down to his room. Entering his room he made his way quietly over towards the bed. He could see his brother Thomas once again wrapped up in all of the beds blankets. How Thomas managed every night to wrap himself up in a cocoon still mystified him. Taking the spare blanket from the end of their bed, Jessie climbed in and laid down next to his little brother. It was a lot easier using the spare blanket than it was trying to unwrap Thomas. "Night Thomas," he whispered as he kissed his little brother’s head.

Jessie turned over on the bed and stared out the window, the night sky was full of stars. How magnificent they looked suspended up in the dark sky, each one just slightly different from its neighbor. "I wonder what it would be like to float up there with them," thought Jessie as his eyes lids started to grow heavy. "I bet it be like floating in heaven," he thought as his eyes closed and he drifted off to sleep with the vision of stars in his head.

He awoke with a start; he thought he had heard someone cry out. "Thomas?" he questioned as his eyes tried to focus in the darkness. As the room finally came into focus it took him a moment to realize where he was, "Heath’s house, I’m at the Barkley’s." He mouthed quietly as he jumped out of bed, "Heath, I gotta check on Heath." His mind shouted at him as he ran barefoot across the floor and opened the door. Running down the dark hall he quickly reached Heath’s room and raced inside, "his bed’s empty!" He said to himself as the shock of not finding Heath in his bed started to sink in. "Heath?" He said in a small meek voice into the quiet dark room as he started to look around.

Hearing the wind blow through Heath’s open window he turned his attention there. He could see someone kneeling and holding onto the bottom of the window frame. "Heath?" He asked quietly as he made his way over towards the window. "Heath!" He shouted as he raced forward and knelt down next to his friend.

Heath was shaking and Jessie could tell that he’d been sweating, as his face and neck were still wet with it. Jessie placed his arm across Heath’s back in an effort to comfort him. "Heath what is it?" Asked Jessie in a frightened voice.

Heath turned his head slowly and looked at Jessie, "Jessie?" He said in a far off voice.

"Yeah Heath, it’s me," came the reply. Jessie didn’t like the look in Heath’s eyes; it was as if he’d seen a ghost. He seemed to be so far away even though Jessie could touch him, "Heath what is it? Please tell me I’m scared." Cried Jessie as he moved right up against Heath.

Hearing Jessie’s frightened voice seemed to bring Heath back, his eyes started to gain clarity in them once again and his shaking eased. "It’s all right Jessie," stated Heath as he embraced the small boy. "I didn’t mean to frighten you."

Jessie’s fears eased as he looked up and saw the concern in Heath’s eyes, "what happened Heath, I heard you cry out?"

"Just a bad dream I guess, nothing to worry about," Heath said as he slowly rose to his feet. "Come on let’s get you tucked back into bed." He added as he helped Jessie up.

"You sure you’re OK?" Jessie questioned as he took Heath’s hand and the two began walking towards the door.

"I’m fine now Jessie, I can’t even remember what it was about anymore." Replied Heath as he tried to smile.

Jessie didn’t think Heath was telling him the truth, his eyes told another story one of pain and fear. Jumping up in bed Jessie looked questionably up at Heath, "you can tell me about it if you want to," he said hoping he could help Heath.

"Another time, you need to get some rest." Replied Heath as he pulled the covers up around Jessie. "I’ll see you in the morning…and Jessie, thanks." He added before limping out of the room.

Jessie lay for a long time looking up at the ceiling, something was troubling Heath. He needed to find out what it was; he wanted to help him more than anything else. "I’ll ask him again tomorrow," he thought before drifting off to sleep.

Heath wasn’t as lucky as Jessie, he couldn’t fall right back to sleep. Every time he closed his eyes the same vision filled his head, cold black eyes as dead as night, just staring at him, staring and laughing.

Continued…