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.
The air was refreshingly crisp as he rode along in the
predawn light. The first few hints of color were just beginning to appear over
the horizon as he looked back over his shoulder at the new mare he'd recently
purchased. The moment he'd spied the
exceptional horse at auction he knew his sister would simply love her. She had
a beautiful shiny chestnut brown coat with a lush black mane and long black
tail. She was as gentle as a summer rain but had loads of spirit and a real
fire in her eyes. He smiled to himself as he pictured the look on Audra's face
when he presented his gift to her. As he thought about his sister he let his
mind drift back to a few months ago.
His first few months on the Barkley Ranch had been hard ones. He thought coming
to terms with who his father was would be difficult but it paled in comparison
to actually facing his father's family. If he'd known the pain it would cause
them he doubted now that he ever would've even set foot on Barkley property. He
hated to think of all the self doubt Mrs. Barkley had put herself through upon
learning of his existence. At least most of that had been resolved when Hannah
sent Victoria a letter written from Tom Barkley to Heath's mother Leah so many
many years ago. Reading the letter Victoria realized Tom hadn't known of
Heath's existence and had professed his love for her and their children. At
least for Victoria one demon could be put to rest.
Of his new family members, Jarrod had accepted him right after the fight at
Sample's Farm and the two had grown closer ever since. Heath enjoyed spending
time with his older brother and often sought him out in the evenings after
dinner to discuss ideas or concerns he had for the ranch. Heath admired the
fact that Jarrod never talked down to him and always treated him as an equal,
even though he'd never had much of a formal education.
His sister Audra had also accepted him readily. He'd never imaged having a
little sister would be so much fun or so much responsibility. He'd never felt
protective over anyone besides his mother, Hannah, and Aunt Rachel before. But
having a little sister now changed all that. He loved Audra's free spirit but
truly cherished her unselfish nature and kind heart.
His younger brother Eugene had been skeptical of him at first but following
Jarrod's lead, soon accepted him. Listening to Eugene tell stories about his
studies and the different professors, students, and subjects at his University
could keep Heath entertained for hours. It was a hard place for him to imagine,
the only school he'd ever been in had one room with only one teacher. The idea
of being able to study more than one subject with more than one teacher truly
astounded him. Even more, the idea of being able to discuss ideas, problems and
solutions with other students the way Eugene described it to him was like
something out of a dime store novel. The only problem with the University as
Heath saw it was that it took Eugene away from the family for long periods of
time. He'd just started to really get to know Gene when he had to return for
the start of classes.
There was one member of the Barkley family having a particularly hard time
accepting Heath. Unfortunately for Heath it was the one member of the family he
most wanted approval from. Even after Heath made his stand at Sample's Farm and
Victoria shared with the family the letter Hannah had sent; Nick Barkley
couldn't and wouldn't allow him self to accept Heath as his brother. He
couldn't believe his father would have ever stooped so low as to have an
affair. Somehow Heath's mother must have tricked him into trusting her and then
taken advantage of him. There was no way he was going to let that mangy, good
for nothing, blonde scoundrel whose mother was most likely a whore stay on his
ranch.
For the first few weeks it seemed every other day Nick and Heath were throwing
punches at one another over some disagreement or misunderstanding. Nick would
hound Heath from sun up to sun down, humiliate him in front of the men every
chance he got, and load him with twice as much work as anyone else on the
ranch. For the past few months' things had calmed down some but tempers were
still quick to flare. When Mrs. Barkley suggested he go on this horse-buying
trip alone, Nick stormed out of the room without a word. Heath was actually
looking forward to the time alone, he hadn't had a chance to be alone for quite
a while and really wanted a chance to be able to think this whole situation
with Nick through.
As the morning's sun continued it's path into the sky the area around him
started to come alive with activity. Birds chirped and sang happily in the many
trees lining the meadow. Dragonflies, butterflies, and bees fluttered
effortlessly back and forth over the meadows many wildflowers. The air around
him came alive as well with the scent of honey suckle, wildflowers, and pine.
Just before noon he stopped for a moment, tilted his head back and drank in the
sweet air while gazing up at the now clear blue-sky overhead. The sun felt warm
and comforting on his handsome face as he basked in its warm glow. Catching a
slight movement out of the corner of his eye, he noticed a group of buzzards
circling in the air about a mile or two away. Since he was headed in their
direction anyway he decided to check it out.
At the end of the meadow the roadway meandered through a small strand of trees
for a while before opening up into another large meadow, it was then he noticed
the reason for the buzzards. About four hundred yards away lying just off the
side of the road were the remains of a covered wagon. Pushing his Modoc on a
little faster Heath soon covered the short distance, jumping down he tied the
Modoc to the wagon wheel and secured the rope for the mare on his saddle horn.
The wagon lay on it's left side in the tall meadow grass just a few feet away
from the road, it's contents scattered all about. Walking around to the back of
the wagon Heath lifted up the still intact tarp and looked inside. He wasn't
prepared for the sight that greeted him. Inside the back of the wagon were the
remains of a woman and a small child. The woman still had her arms wrapped
around the child trying to protect it from some unseen evil. She had numerous
bullet wounds and appeared to have died trying unsuccessfully to shelter the
child from harm.
Heath quickly closed the tarp, stepped back, and took in a few gulps of fresh
air. From the state the bodies were in and the fresh blood he'd guessed they
died sometime earlier that morning. Regaining some of his composure he walked
on around to the front of the wagon and made yet another gruesome discovery.
About four feet from the wagon was the body of a young boy of about 12 or 13
lying on his stomach in the grass. Two large angry red circles adorned his back
and turned his light tan shirt a dark red. Still clutched in his unmoving hand
was a rifle, a child's rifle. Heath's eyes were drawn to the rifle, it reminded
him of the ones he used to admire and stare at in the window of Strawberry's
General Store when he himself were just a boy. A few feet further up in the
grass from the boy lay the body of a man and woman. The man was on his back
staring up at the blue sky with unseeing eyes, his face and chest covered in
blood. The woman's arm lay draped lazily across the mans chest as she lay on
her stomach next to him. It appeared she'd received a shotgun blast in the
back.
Turning away from the sight he walked back over to his horse, the macabre scene
had really unnerved him. He'd seen death before but this was different. This
was the senseless killing of a family, of children. His mind reeled with a
thousand questions as he took in the scene around him. He was miles from the
nearest town and he hadn't seen a house or ranch anywhere in the area all
morning. Who were these people and what drove someone or something to murder
them? From the items scattered about on the ground Heath guessed the family had
been in the process of moving. Most of the items surrounding the wagon were
household items, clothes, and tools, there didn't seem to be anything of real
great value. Picking up several hastily discarded blankets and sheets he
proceeded to cover up the bodies. Checking the pockets of the man before
covering him, he found a wallet containing close to fifty dollars. There were
also two different tattered pictures of a man and woman in wedding attire.
Turning the first picture over Heath read the writing on the back, George and
Nancy Lawson August 19th 1860. The second one read George and Claire Lawson May
20th 1871. Studying the two pictures for a moment Heath noticed the man was the
same in each photo. Putting the pictures back inside and closing the wallet he
noticed the initials GL engraved on the leather, other than the pictures and
money, the wallet contained no other information about the man who carried it.
Placing the wallet in his saddlebags he untied his horse and started back on
down the road leaving the macabre scene behind. He made up his mind to stop in
the first town he came to and report what he'd found. If he was lucky maybe
these people had passed through there and someone in the town would have
information as to who they were. As he traveled and took in the scenery around
him an uneasy feeling began forming in the pit of his stomach, he couldn't
quite put his finger on it but something wasn't right. The air around him
seemed quieter than it had been earlier in the day; the sky had even begun to
darken and now showed hints of coming rain.
As the shadows grew longer Heath decided to make camp for the night. Finding a
suitable location near a small grouping of trees, he guided his Modoc and the
mare down to a small stream nearby and let them drink their fill. Kneeling down
himself he decided to wash a little of the trail dust off with the cool crisp
water. Cupping his hands he brought the water up to his face and neck trying to
scrub off some of the dirt and grim he'd collected. Although the air was cool
and the water was cold it sure felt good on his face and neck as he continued
to wash. The cold water made quick work removing most of the dirt but it couldn't
clean the images of the murdered family out of his head.
Watching the sparks from his campfire weave their way up into the evening sky,
Heath tried to relax. He thought about his new home and family. A smile crept
across his face as he thought about Audra, Jarrod, and Gene. His expression
turned to one of awe as his thoughts turned towards Victoria. It still amazed
him on how she'd taken him into her home on nothing more than his word
regarding his heritage. She'd fought for him, supported him, and nurtured him.
She'd accepted him as one of her own. The unselfishness of her actions was not
lost on him, but part of him still believed he didn't deserve her love. As his
heart began to sink his thoughts turned towards his hotheaded older brother,
Nick.
Nick was the kind of brother he had dreamed about having all his life. Someone
who shared the same passion for ranching and everything that went with it as
he. Someone who loved the outdoors and relished in her many splendors, who
wasn't afraid of a hard days work. Someone who took pride in a job well done, a
man who deserved to be treated with respect not because he was rich but because
he was hardworking, honest, fair, and just. A man who was loyal to his family
and friends, and a man who wasn't afraid to fight for what he believed was
right no matter what the cost. That, all wrapped up in a high-strung,
ferocious, hotheaded bundle was his brother Nick. Thinking about his family he
soon drifted off to sleep.
* * * * * * * * *
*
The rain lasted well into the afternoon and showed no
signs of dissipating as the gray clouds continued to blanket the sky. He had
plenty of time to think as he rode along in the rain and his thoughts always
wondered back to the wagon and the family that had once ridden inside it. What
he couldn't figure out was why someone would murder them in cold blood and just
leave everything behind. It didn't appear anything was taken except for the
team pulling the wagon. The man still had $50 dollars in his wallet, and there
were plenty of items strewn about so money couldn't have been the issue. And
why would anyone want to murder a family for a team of horses? It just didn't
make sense.
Up ahead in the growing darkness he spotted what appeared to be a small town
slowly coming into view. The closer he drew to the town the more he wondered if
it were abandoned. The few small houses on the outskirts of the town were in
good shape but looked to be uninhabited. Slowly walking his Modoc down the main
street he finally saw the first signs of life as a curtain was quickly drawn
shut in the upstairs window of a building as he rode by. Pulling up in front of
a building labeled Inn, Heath tied up his horses and looked around the street
once more before mounting the steps and trying the door. Finding it locked he
knocked loudly on the glass hoping to gain the owners attention.
"What do you want? Go away!" Shouted a bald little man as he jumped
up behind the door startling Heath.
"I'm looking for a room for the night," explained Heath as he
carefully observed the man.
"Ain't got any rooms. Now go away!" Shouted the little man as he
disappeared once again from view.
"This is an Inn, isn't it?" Questioned Heath as he looked through the
window trying to spot the elusive Innkeeper.
"We're full!" Shouted the man from the other side of the door.
"I'd be willing to make it worth your while," stated Heath calmly as
he pulled out his wallet and began flipping through the bills inside.
Slowly rising up and peeking out the window, the man watched as Heath thumbed
through the wad of cash. "Just how much worth my while?" He
questioned as his eyes remained on the cash.
"Twice what you normally charge." Offered Heath as he continued to
finger his cash.
"Make it three and ya got yerself a deal." Exclaimed the bald little
man as he continued to watch Heath finger his money.
"Deal," answered Heath as he watched the delight in the little mans
eyes.
"Take yer animals out back, I'll met ya at the back door." Stated the
little man as he disappeared from view.
Chuckling to himself Heath turned around and placed the money back in his vest
pocket. As he started down the steps he glanced across the darkening street
just as a curtain was quickly drawn shut. Looking up and down the street in the
growing gloom he once again noticed how unusually quiet the town was. The only
sounds to be heard were that of the rain gently falling down on his hat and
slicker. Something made him suddenly shiver; shaking it off as just a chill
from the rain he grabbed his Modoc and the mare and led them around to the back
of the Inn.
There was a small stable in the back of the Inn where he settled his horses, it
wasn't much but at least it would keep them warm and dry. Grabbing his
saddlebags he made his way to the back door of the Inn where the bald little
man met him promptly.
"Come in, come in," he stated urgently as he grabbed Heath's poncho
and pulled him through the door. Closing the door quickly the little man looked
out the window for a moment before quickly pulling the shade shut. "Right
this way," he added as he gently nudged Heath through the kitchen and into
the dining area. "Can I get ya some coffee Mr. a ...?" He asked as he
pulled a chair out for Heath to sit on.
"Barkley, Heath Barkley and thanks," he replied taking off his hat and
poncho before sitting down.
"Nice to meet you Mr. Barkley, names Hiram Brown." Stated Hiram as he
shook Heath's hand. Heath watched as Hiram walked over to the front windows and
peered out through the curtains before heading off into the kitchen. Settling
back into the chair he looked around the dusty dimly lit little room. It didn't
appear there'd been any guests around here for quite some time. Reaching into
his saddlebag, he pulled out the wallet he'd recovered from the wagon. Opening
it up he took out the two pictures it contained. Comparing them side-by-side he
was certain that the man was the same in both, the women were different and one
of them looked like the woman he found in the back of the wagon.
Heath was startled by the sound of breaking glass just behind his chair.
Turning around he saw Hiram staring at the photos he held in his hands as a
broken cup, saucer, and puddle of coffee lay at his feet.
"Where did you get those?" He questioned quietly never taking his
eyes off the photos in Heath's hands.
"Do you know them?" Asked Heath as he handed the photos over to
Hiram.
"I asked where you got them," Hiram stated in the same voice as
before. The pictures trembled in his hands as he looked down at Heath for an
answer.
"I'm afraid the owner was killed." Heath answered as he watched a
tear slip down Hiram's face.
"What about his wives? His children?" Asked Hiram frantically.
"Wives?" Questioned Heath as he watched Hiram begin to break down.
"The two women here," he replied as he turned the pictures around and
held them in front of Heath with shaking hands.
Heath just shook his head no and watched as the little mans knees gave out and
he sat down in a chair cried. "The children?" He asked as he
continued to cry and stare at the pictures his hands held.
"I'm afraid not," answered Heath laying his hand on the mans
trembling shoulder. "I'm sorry." He added as Hiram looked over at
him.
"Where...where did it happen?" He asked as the tears continued to run
freely down his face.
"About a days ride west of here. I came across them yesterday."
Replied Heath as he tried to comfort Hiram.
"How?" Hiram asked his voice shaking.
"They were shot," answered Heath lowering his head as the memories of
the gruesome scene came rushing back.
"I was hoping they.... they got away." Stated Hiram quietly as he
looked over at Heath.
"Got away from who?"
Hiram looked around the dimly lit room before standing up quickly, "You
must go, I changed my mind ya can't stay here." He stated as he tried to
lift Heath out of his chair. "They'll come for you too," he added as
he frantically tried to get Heath to leave.
"Who Hiram? Who did this?" Asked Heath as he grabbed Hiram by his
upper arms and tried to settle him down. The frightened look in Hiram's eyes
unnerved Heath a little as he tried to get an answer to his question.
"No...no you must leave now!" Shouted Hiram as he shook off Heath's
hold and started gathering up his belongings.
"I can help you Hiram, but I have to know what's going on."
"No one can help us son." Replied Hiram as his chin hit his chest in
defeat.
The sound of approaching hooves caused Hiram to spin around. Racing over to
blow out the rooms only light, he went to the front windows and peeked out
through the shades just as five men on horseback road past and stopped in front
of the saloon. He watched as they dismounted and looked up and down the street
before banging through the saloons doors. "If ya leave now you can get
away," stated Hiram as he rushed back over to Heath's side. "Please,
I shouldn't a let ya in."
"Hiram, I'm not leaving until I know what or who your so afraid of."
Stated Heath as he stood his ground in front of the little man. "Let me
help."
Hiram looked up at the young blonde man standing in front of him and saw the
sincerity in his blue eyes. "Those men out there, they're the ones that
killed George and his family." Spoke Hiram quietly as he sat down and
picked the pictures up off the table.
"The family I found?" Stated Heath as he sat down next to Hiram.
"Yes, this here's George Lawson and his wife Nancy." Stated Hiram
quietly as he pointed to the older of the two photos. "And this is George
and his wife Claire," he added holding out the other photo for Heath to
see.
"Your Mormons," stated Heath more as a statement than a question.
"Yes," answered Hiram as he looked up at Heath. "Still want to
help?"
Heath looked back down at the innocent smiling faces of the people in the
pictures and then back up at Hiram, "tell me more about those men
outside."
* * * * * * * * *
*
Hiram talked well into the night, he explained how he and
forty other Mormon families had come to this uninhabited town over a year ago
for a fresh start. It was somewhere they could live in peace and as a community
without being hounded or exiled for their beliefs. The town had really thrived
up until three months ago, that's when John Crocker and his so-called deputies
rode into town. Things had started off innocently enough, John offered to
protect the town if they were to elect him sheriff and pay him a small yearly
salary. At first things ran smoothly, John ran off any riffraff that drifted
into town and everyone had a feeling of peace and security. But then everything
changed. It happened one night as John and the men he'd deputized were drinking
heavily at the saloon.
Sarah Minck had been on her way home after helping a friend Mary Keating
deliver her first child, little Suella. James Keating offered to walk Sarah
home due to the late hour but Sarah insisted that she could make her way home
just fine and that James should stay with his new family. Sarah and her husband
Lloyd lived just on the outskirts of town practically within shouting distance
of the Keatings.
Sarah's path home had unfortunately taken her down the
sidewalk in front of the saloon just as a drunken John Crocker and his men made
their way outside. The drunken men surrounded the poor defenseless girl and
dragged her into the alley alongside the saloon, where they proceeded to have
their way with her. When they finished with her they decided amongst themselves
that they should leave no witnesses. So they strangled her to death and dumped
her body in with the garbage behind the saloon.
Sarah's body was found the next day and the entire town went in to a state of
morning. John Crocker vowed to find the person responsible and bring them to
justice. But what he hadn't bargained on was a little old man named Thomas
Evans. Thomas had seen the attack from the upstairs window of his home but
being nearly 85 years old could do nothing to stop it. Thomas shared what he
saw with Lloyd, Sarah's husband, who called a meeting of the town's elders for
guidance. The elders' suggested the best way to rid themselves of these demons
was to pay them off in hopes that they would leave town. When that didn't work
a very distraught Lloyd Minck tried to take matters into his own hands but was
gunned down in the middle of the street by John Crocker and his men. The
following day Thomas Evans was found hanging from the banister in his home.
John Crocker ruled the death a suicide even though there were rope burns on
Thomas's wrists and bruises on his face and body.
After that families talked about moving away from the town for fear that they
or their loved ones would be the next innocent victims. Once news of this reached
John Crocker's ears all hell broke loose. John and his men ransacked the town
and threatened all of the town's people. They were told that anyone trying to
leave town would be shot on sight that included women and children. No one was
safe after that.
Hiram took a deep breath before continuing on with the story. Heath could see
the sadness in his eyes as he told of the horrors he'd witnessed. It was hard
to imagine living in fear the way Hiram and the other families had been these
past few months. Although Heath didn't agree with the Mormon lifestyle, he did
know no one deserved to be treated like this.
"Hiram has anyone tried to leave?" Questioned Heath as Hiram finished
talking.
Hiram shook his head yes and looked down at the table before speaking.
"David Stenson sent his oldest boy Seth out looking for help late one
night about three weeks after John Crocker made his announcement. The next
morning John and his men dumped Seth's lifeless body on the front steps of his
parents home. They dragged that poor boy for miles, there was nothing much left
of him." A tear ran down Hiram's face as he remembered the anguished cries
coming from both David and his wife Carolyn at their sons' funeral.
"George and his family were the latest ones to try and get away. I tried
to talk him out of it but he wouldn't listen. He was so sure he could protect
himself and his family from those demons. But from what you found that wasn't
true." Added Hiram quietly. "Markus Quinn took his family away from
here over two weeks ago. He said he'd send help back but no ones come. I wonder
if they met with the same fate as George."
"Hiram this Crocker and his men, do they follow any certain schedule or
pattern?" Questioned Heath as he placed a consoling hand on Hiram's
shoulder.
Hiram's face changed from one of sadness to concentration, the lines on his
forehead deepened as he pondered Heath's question. "They should be in the
saloon for at least another hour or two. Then they usually stumble around the
streets shootin or attacking anything that moves before headin to the old docs
office just down the street for the night."
"How far is the nearest town?"
"That would be Silver Springs, about a days ride east a here. It's a small
mining town from what I remember." Replied Hiram as he scratched his head.
Heath sat back and looked over at Hiram, he knew in his heart there was no way
he could ride away from here without helping these people. He couldn't leave
them here to face the same fate as the Lawsons and others. "Hiram, I'm
going to ride over to Silver Springs bring back the sheriff and wire my family.
My brother Jarrod's a lawyer in Stockton I'm sure he can help."
Hiram stood up and extended his hand out to Heath, "thank you son, thank
you!"
As Heath stood up to shake Hiram's hand, he was pulled into a bear hug. As the
color rose in Heath's cheeks Hiram took a step back and shook his hand.
"You don't know what this means to us." He added as his eyes welled
up.
Putting on his rain slicker once again, Heath picked up the wallet and handed
it to Hiram. "Why don't you keep this," he stated as he swung his
saddlebag over his shoulder.
Opening the wallet Hiram tried to hand Heath the cash it contained, "you
should keep this. After all it was my greed that forced you to get caught up in
this in the first place."
"I was caught up in this the moment I stumbled across George Lawson and
his family." Stated Heath as he pushed the money back towards Hiram.
"Use the money to give them a decent burial after this is over."
As Heath turned to leave he felt Hiram's hand on his shoulder, "Be careful
son, these are real bad people."
"I will," replied Heath with a half smile as he turned and headed
towards the back door.
Closing the back door quietly he took a look around the small yard before proceeding
back towards the stable. He was in the process of synching up his Modoc's
saddle when he felt the mussel of a gun in his back.
"Evenin there friend," stated John Crocker as he took a step
backwards allowing Heath to turn around and face him. "What brings you to
our fair town?" He questioned with a laugh.
"Do you always greet "friends" with a gun?" Questioned
Heath as he turned around and faced the man responsible for so much suffering.
"Only when I'm not sure what type of "friend" I'm facin,"
replied John with a chuckle. "What brings you to my fair town."
Heath looked to John's left as two of his men came around the side of the
stable. "Just passing through."
"For someone just passing through your sure taking a long time...
friend." Replied John as he snickered to the two men now standing beside
him.
The same cold shiver that Heath felt run through him in front of Hiram's Inn
now passed through him again. But this time he knew it wasn't due to the cold
rain but rather to the cold blooded killer standing in front of
him.
* * * * * * * * *
*
"That boy was supposed to be back yesterday
morning!" Shouted Nick as he stomped around the dinning room trying to
extenuate his point.
"Nick, he probably just took refuge from the rain and stayed someplace
warm for the night. Why I bet he'll be home any minute now." Stated Jarrod
confidently before taking a sip of coffee and winking at Victoria.
"Jarrod's right Nick, I'm sure Heath will be home soon." Added
Victoria as she tried to calm her volatile middle son.
"I still say he ran off with our money and we'll never see it or him
again!" Shouted Nick as he pulled out his chair and sat down forcibly.
"Heath wouldn't do that Nick, he's our brother. What's ours is his, he
doesn't have to steal anything." Stated Audra as she looked across the
table at Nick.
"He's not our brother!" Shouted Nick slamming his fist down on the
table causing the dishes to rattle.
"He is too Nick and the sooner you accept it the better!" Replied
Audra on the verge of tears.
"He may have you fooled little girl, but he certainly hasn't fooled
me!" Shouted Nick as he stood and pointed his finger at Audra across the
table.
"If you'd just open your eyes and stop treating him like... like dirt
you'd see he's our brother!" Replied Audra as she stood up and fled the
table in tears.
"That's enough Nick! How many times do we have to go over this! Heath is
just as much a Barkley as you or I or any of us! He's your fathers son Nick,
your brother and no matter what you say or do will change that." Stated
Victoria as she scolded her hotheaded middle son.
As Victoria finished her speech, Nick threw his napkin down on his plate and
left the room without a word.
"It'll just take some time mother, you'll see Nick'll come around."
Said Eugene as he tried to lighten his mother's spirits.
"I hope your right Gene," replied Victoria as she placed her napkin
back in her lap. But in her head she had doubts, she was afraid Nick would
never get the chance to know the brother he'd always dreamed of having. The one
person who shared the same passion for ranching and everything that went with
it as he. The one person he could share his dreams and ambitions with. If only
he'd stop long enough to take a good look at Heath, he'd see how much of Tom
Barkley there was in him. But Nick was to busy taking out his anger on Heath
instead of the person who deserved it, his deceased father.
Gene and Jarrod watched as Victoria slowly rose from the table and excused
herself. Staring into his coffee cup Jarrod wondered how much longer Heath was
going to put up with Nick's treatment of him before he'd finally had enough and
chose to leave the ranch. Maybe just maybe it had already happened, that's why
Heath wasn't back yet. He didn't want to believe that because deep down he knew
Heath would never run out on the family he'd always wanted and worked so hard
to become a part of. Putting down his coffee cup he excused himself and went
out to the parlor to collect his gun belt and hat.
* * * * * * * * *
*
"Afternoon Mr. Barkley," stated Travis Green.
"Afternoon Travis."
"What brings you into the bank this fine afternoon?" Questioned
Travis as he sat down behind his desk.
" I need to ask you a favor," replied Jarrod as he sat down across
from the bank manager.
"Certainly Jarrod what can I help you with?"
"I need to see my brother Heath's account." Stated Jarrod as he
leaned in towards Travis's desk.
"Jarrod you of all people know that information is confidential."
"I realize that Travis but Heath may be in danger, I need to see if his
account has been active recently." Replied Jarrod as he looked around to
make sure none of the other banks patrons were listening to his conversation.
Sitting back in his chair Travis thought over Jarrod's question. He certainly
didn't want to offend the banks largest contributor but in complying with
Jarrod's request he'd have to go against bank policy. Weighing the options he
decided to help. "Wait right here Jarrod, I'll see what I can find
out."
Jarrod didn't have to wait long as Travis was back with the needed information
quickly. "Here's a listing of all your brothers deposits Jarrod."
Taking the slip of paper form Travis's hand Jarrod noticed there were no
withdrawals noted. "What about any withdrawals?"
"He's never made a withdrawal Jarrod. Puts the same amount in week after
week too. He does wire a little bit of money each week from his pay to
Strawberry." Replied Travis.
"Much obliged Travis," said Jarrod as he folded the slip of paper up
and put it in his pocket. As he exited the bank Jarrod stopped and stood for a
moment on the walkway and took the slip of paper out of his pocket again. The
dates on the slip corresponded with the paydays of the ranch. Heath had taken
and deposited all of his money each week for the past five months he had been
with them. If Heath had planned on leaving surely he would have made a large
withdrawal before he left, or at least not deposited his last few weeks pay.
With Jarrod's fears now renewed that something may have happened to Heath he
raced back towards the ranch.
* * * * * * * * *
*
"Nick he has over $4000 in his bank account, don't
you think he'd take that money with him!" Replied Jarrod angrily as he
handed the deposit slip over to Nick.
"That doesn't prove a thing!" Shouted Nick as he waved his hands in
the air and stormed around the study. "That boy had over $2,500 dollars
with him when he left for the auction!"
"Yes Nick and if he'd taken his money from the bank he'd have over $6,000.
Why would he leave with just the $2,500 and not the rest of his money?"
Replied Jarrod exasperated.
"Who knows maybe he was gonna wire the bank for it later!" shouted
Nick with a little less conviction than before.
"Wire the bank! He knows we'd put a hold on his account if he left Nick.
You made that quite clear to him when he opened the account if I remember
correctly." Stated Jarrod as he stood directly in front of Nick. "We
need
to go and find him Nick."
"Find him! I couldn't be happier that he's gone! And if it only cost us
$2,500 to get rid of him, I'd say we made out!" Shouted Nick as he poked
Jarrod in the chest to accentuate his point.
"I knew you were hardheaded Nick, but this...." Turning his back on
Nick, Jarrod walked to the study doors. "Gene and I are leaving in the
morning to find Heath, your welcome to join us." With that he left the
room.
Nick stood staring at the closed doors for a moment before looking down at the
deposit slip he still held. He remembered the first date on the slip as though
it were yesterday. He and Jarrod had gotten into a heated argument over just
what Heath was entitled too. Jarrod wanted to make Heath an equal partner while
he wanted the mongrel run off the ranch. The argument finally ended but not
before he was forced to give that whore's son a weekly salary until Jarrod
could straighten everything out.
As Nick stared at the note in his hands some of what Jarrod said started to
sink in. If Heath had all this money why would he leave it behind? He'd gone
through Heath's room last night and discovered he hadn't taken any of
his personnel items along either. It just didn't make any sense and that
infuriated Nick, balling up the deposit slip and throwing it in the fire Nick
stormed out of the study and out into the barn to think.
* * * * * * * * *
*
"Leave that boy alone!" Shouted John as he
grabbed Mark buy the shirt collar and dragged him backwards out of the cell.
"He's had enough."
"Come on Johnnie, we gots him trusted up like a little ole pig."
Laughed Mark as he stumbled out into the office. "We's just funnin with
him."
" Art you get out here too! I can't leave you two alone for a
second!" Shouted John as he went back into the cell to pull out his other
deputy.
"Ah we ain't hurtin' him much John," stated Art as he reluctantly
left the cell. "Why can't we play with him?"
"I don't want you boys killin him just yet" Replied John as he led
the two drunken deputies out the door. "No go on and sleep it off, I want
you back her bright an early."
"You know somethin Johnnie...ur no fun no more." Laughed Art as he
and Mark made their way out the door and down the sidewalk.
Closing the door and locking it, John went back to check on his prisoner. The
boy lay face down on the dirt floor with his arms and legs securely hog-tied
behind him. The boys hadn't just hog-tied him but beat him more as well. Taking
out his knife John prepared to cut Heath free of his bonds. Kneeling down on
the floor he spoke to him before he began, "now listen here boy, I'm gonna
free ya out a this but mark my word you make one wrong move an your life ends
here."
Heath could barely make out what the man was saying, for some reason he sounded
very far away even though he was kneeling right next to him. As the ropes were
cut connecting his hands to his legs some of the tension was
taken off of his shoulders. John cut through the ropes binding Heath's feet and
then cut through the ones so cruelly pulling the boys elbows together. Leaving
Heath's wrists tied John tried to get him to sit up.
"Come on boy let's get you over on the cot." Stated John as he tried
to lift Heath.
Heath let out a small moan as John pulled him up into a sitting position. His
head swam as he tried to focus in on his surroundings. For some reason no
matter how hard he tried he just couldn't get his left eye to open. The
more he tried to focus the worse his head hurt. He could hear John saying
something to him but the words were muffled.
"Up we go boy," said John as he pulled Heath up to his feet.
The room began spinning out of control and he couldn't get his legs to hold him.
Loosing consciousness Heath slumped towards the floor. Catching him John
carried Heath over to the cot and laid him on his side. Cutting the ropes
binding his wrists, John turned Heath over on his back. It was then he got a
really good look at just what the boy had been through.
"They beat you up good son," stated John as he looked down on Heaths
battered form.
Heath's left eye was completely swollen shut; there was a large ragged
laceration across his left cheekbone. His lower lip was split and swollen and
there was a deep cut on his chin. His face was a mess, dirt from the floor
stuck to the blood running from his many wounds and broken nose. The ropes
around his wrists had cut in cruelly and left angry bloody welts, his shirt was
filthy and torn.
Walking back out of the cell John reminded himself to have a little chat with
his men. "I finally get myself a prisoner and they almost kill him. Ain't
no fun being a sheriff unless you got your self a prisoner and I am
to keep him for a while." He thought as he sat back behind his desk and
put his feet up, "yup I am to keep him a long while."
* * * * * * * * *
*
"I'll send word every chance we can," said
Jarrod before gently kissing Victoria on the forehead.
"Be careful Jarrod," replied Victoria as she watched her oldest son
mount his horse.
"We will Mother," said Eugene before he too placed a kiss on his
mothers forehead.
"Gene you stick close to Jarrod," added Victoria as her youngest son
mounted his horse.
Just as the two brothers were about to get underway Nick strode out of the barn
leading Coco. "Wait a minute Jarrod, I'm coming with you."
"Nick are you sure?" Questioned Victoria as she placed her hands on
Nick's arms.
"I'm sure mother," replied Nick bending and placing a kiss on her
cheek. "We have to find him."
Victoria watched as her three sons set out in search of the fourth in the early
morning light. A tear rolled down her cheek as she thought about her lost son
and what may have become of him. During these past few months she had really
come to love and cherish Heath as if he had been one of her own. He reminded
her so much of her beloved Tom that at times it scared her. He brought a sense
of wholeness to the family, something that had been missing since Tom died.
* * * * * * * * *
*
As the morning sun wove its way into the jail cell its
lone occupant began to stir. His entire body ached, his head most of all. In
fact it felt twice its normal size. Slowly and painfully reaching up with left
hand Heath touched his cheek and flinched in pain. Feeling the lump and sticky
wetness he knew why his left eye wouldn't open. Slowly rolling over onto his
side he managed to push himself up to a sitting position with his feet hanging
off the cot as his back rested against the cells wall. Taking a deep breath he
slowly looked around his cell.
Hearing his prisoner stir, John walked back to Heath's cell. "Well boy you
sure are a mess." Exclaimed John as he looked upon Heath's dirty bruised
and battered face. "You hungry?"
Heath said nothing, his eye was locked on John and he didn't blink. He wasn't
about to take anything from this man who'd held him captive for the past three
days.
"You have to eat son," replied John as he tried to coax his prisoner.
"I'm not your son," stated Heath before turning his head away from
John.
"Listen boy! I'm tryin to help you!" Shouted John angrily. "I
can make this a lot harder on you!" Not getting a reply from Heath, John
got even angrier. "You broke the law boy and now you gotta pay!" He
shouted.
"And just what law was that?," questioned Heath as he turned back
around and struggled to stand.
"You tried to undermine my authority boy, your little accomplice told us
everything." Laughed John as he watched Heath struggle to walk towards
him. "You see boy, I just can't allow that in my town. I have to make an
example out of you two."
Stopping in the middle of his cell Heath cocked his head slightly and looked at
John. He was an older man with a neat gray beard and rather bushy gray hair.
His white shirt looked almost painfully starched and he wore a green bow tie
tied precisely under his chin. Around his waist he wore a elaborately decorated
leather gun belt sporting two holsters both occupied with shinny new colts. He
didn't really look like much but Heath knew exactly how dangerous this man
really was.
"What do you mean by example?"
John smiled and stroked his beard, " Now I just can't let some stranger
let alone a respected and trusted member of the town try and undermine our way
of living now can I? So you see I have to remind the people who's in charge,
not to mention what happens when you break the law."
"Don't you mean your way of living?"
Taking a step closer to Heath's cell John laughed, "No boy... you see
these folks needed some guidance and that's exactly what I provide for
them."
Turning around and gingerly walking back to his cot, Heath sat down. "Is
that what you call it, guidance?"
"Don't question me boy!" Shouted John, "these people are
heathens! They need to be shown the proper way! You have no right to judge me,
you have no idea what I've done and
sacrificed for these people!"
"And what about them, haven't they sacrificed enough?" Questioned
Heath as he closed his one eye to quell the dizziness once again threatening to
take over.
"Sacrificed? Them? They have no idea what real sacrifice is."
Exclaimed John as he glared at Heath.
Heath chuckled quietly breaking open the scab that was trying to form on his
swollen lip, looking back up at John with a glint in his eye, Heath lay back
down on the cot and turned his back on John.
"Don't you laugh at me boy!" Shouted an enraged John. "I've
helped these people more than you'll ever know!" He added before hitting
the cell bars with his hand. "Your no better than they are! I'll make you
pay along with them!" Enraged he turned around and left the cell area
slamming the door behind him.
Heath rolled back over on his back and tried to relax his sore body. Picturing
the ranch in his mind seemed to sooth some of his pain, trying to picture what
each of his siblings might be up to took him out of his prison and freed him
for a little while. Just before he drifted away he thought how good it would
feel to hear even Nick yell at him right about now.
* * * * * * * * *
*
John sat out in the front office at his desk and seethed.
How dare that boy question him! What right did he have! He'd teach that boy
about respect! Hearing a knock on the office's door John grumble for the person
to enter.
"Morning Mr. Crocker," stated Mary Chatman with her eyes downcast as
she gingerly walked into the sheriffs office. "I have breakfast for you
and...."
"Bring it over here!" John shouted interrupting her.
Moving quickly Mary placed the picnic basket on the desk and stepped back.
"Is there anything else Mr. Crocker?" She asked nervously.
Standing up, John walked over to the frightened girl and lifted her chin up
with his hand. "There's no reason to be frightened child." He stated
before placing his hands on the sides of her face and kissing her lovingly on
the lips. "Go on and take some of this food to the prisoner in the
back," he added handing the basket back to Mary.
Keeping her eyes downcast Mary took the basket and went through the door back
to the holding cells. Wiping her mouth with the back of her sleeve she stopped
in front of Heaths cell, cringing as she noticed what poor condition he was in,
Mary called out to him. "Excuse me Mister?......... Mister?" Spoke
Mary quietly as she tried to wake Heath. "I've got some food for
you."
Heath stirred slightly as Mary's lovely voice drifted over to him. Turning his
head towards the sound of her voice Heath opened his good eye to look at her.
There standing at the door to his cell was a girl right around Auras age, she
wore a long-sleeved gray dress with a high collar. On her feet were pointed
black lace up boots and on her head she wore a gray
bonnet covering her long brown hair. But what really caught his attention were
her eyes, her eyes were as blue as the ocean. But they showed only sadness,
there was no joy to be
found within them.
Groaning slightly as he struggled to sit up he finally made it to his feet.
Slowly walking over to the cells door he stuck his hand through the bars,
"My names Heath, Heath Barkley."
Looking down at his dirty hand, Mary could see blood and rope marks on his
wrist. Uncertain as to weather or not to touch him for fear of hurting him
further she took a step backwards.
"I'm sorry," stated Heath as he withdrew his hand, "I forgot how
dirty it was." He added as he tried to smile at her.
"No... I'm sorry... I didn't mean to..." began Mary before hanging
her head. She hadn't meant for him to feel bad or insulted, she just didn't
want to cause him anymore pain. She'd seen first hand what the sheriff and his
deputies could do.
"No harm ma'am," replied Heath trying to make her feel better.
"Now what've ya got hidin in that basket? It sure does smell good."
Looking up Mary noticed the twinkle in his eye and felt a little bit more at
ease, "I hope you like biscuits and gravy," she stated quietly.
"Why that's my favorite miss... I'm sorry I didn't catch your name."
"Mary Chatman," replied Mary as she took a step closer to the cell.
"Is there anything else I can get you?" Mary asked after she handed
Heath his breakfast.
"This should do me just fine Mary." Replied Heath as he took the
biscuit and slowly walked back over to his cot. Breaking off a little piece he
put it in his mouth and swallowed. "Why that's the best tasten biscuit
I've had in a long while."
Mary smiled as she watched Heath savor the sweet tasting biscuit. She watched
him chew gingerly and figured his swollen mouth and face must make it difficult
for him to eat.
"Get out here woman!" Shouted John from the front office.
Cringing, Mary quickly folded up the cloth in her basket and closed the lid.
"Thank you Mary," stated Heath as she turned around to leave.
Turning back around as she opened the door, Mary smiled shyly at Heath before
leaving.
* * * * * * * * *
*
They'd been on the trail for a little over two days now
and still no sign of Heath. Normally Nick loved being out on the range with his
brothers tagging along by his side but this trip had been different. They
weren't traveling to a horse auction or rounding up stay calves or just
spending the night out under the stars, they were heading off in search of a
man who'd brought great controversy and turmoil into their lives.
As Nick tightened up the cinch on Coco's saddle he thought back to the first
time he, Jarrod, and Gene confronted Heath in the study after he'd made the
outlandish statement he was Tom Barkley's son. He had been ready to throw Heath
out on his ear right then and there but Jarrod wanted to give him a chance to
explain him self and to prove his story. Jarrod had also been the one to argue
in Heath’s favor after the fight at Sample's farm with the rest of the family
and won their approval. And now again it was Jarrod who had them all out
searching for this alleged brother.
The more Nick thought about the evidence Jarrod presented him concerning
Heath's possible disappearance the more he began to question his feelings
towards Heath. He was beginning to believe that maybe just maybe Jarrod was
right and something had happened to Heath. Something deep down inside him just
wouldn't let it rest, he had to find out if Jarrod was right. He still didn't
trust Heath, the boy was to quiet for his liking and he still didn't believe
his crazy story but there was just something so familiar about him, something
he just couldn't put his finger on.
"You two ready?" Snapped Nick as he threw his leg up and over Coco's
saddle. "I'm not waitin all day!" He added turning Coco away from his
brothers.
"Come on Gene, I think brother Nick is ready to hit the trail." Said
Jarrod as he placed a hand on Gene's shoulder.
Smiling at his older brother Eugene mounted his horse and followed along behind
him as they raced to catch up with Nick.
* * * * * * * * *
*
"Johnnie!" Shouted Cole as he burst through the
front door of the sheriff's office. "James and I just spotted three riders
headed this way!" He exclaimed placing his hands on the front of Johnnie's
desk.
Rubbing his beard with his left hand John contemplated his next move. "How
far away are they?"
"About two miles or so."
"All right round up the rest of the men and meet me back here as fast as
you can."
As Cole raced from the office, John unlocked the gun cabinet and readied the
rifles it held. In no time at all Cole had the rest of John's deputies gathered
out in the front office.
"All right, Clay are you sure you and James cleaned up the mess we talked
about?" Questioned John as he walked up in front of the two men.
"Yeah Johnnie we burned everything." Stated Clay as he looked into
John's cold brown eyes.
"There's nothin left of that wagon nor them people neither," added
James.
"Well if you two would a done what you were supposed to in the first place
that fella back there wouldn't even be here!" John shouted. "But you
two couldn't follow a simple instruction and now we got even more unwanted
company! Since your both the reason that boys here get back in that cell and
make sure he stays quiet! I don't want anybody to know he's here. The rest of
us will be over in the saloon. Hopefully we can persuade our visitors to leave
quickly and quietly."
* * * * * * * * *
*
Heath stirred as he heard the door to his cell creak open.
"Just stay where you are boy," said James as both he and Clay leveled
their guns at Heath.
Heath looked up at the two men now standing over him, one appeared to be
roughly Jarrod's age and the other just a tad younger.
"Damn boy Mark and Art really worked you over," whistled Clay as he
looked down at Heaths battered face.
"They sure did," laughed James as he reached out to touch Heath's
swollen cheek.
"What you want?" questioned Heath as he swatted James's hand away.
"You better watch yer self boy!" Threatened James as he poked Heath
in the ribs with his gun. "Were here to make sure you stay quiet. Now get
up!"
Getting up slowly Heath stood in front of his captors and stared at them with
his one good eye.
"Turn around boy!" Shouted James as he shoved Heath. "Clay, go
out front and get Johnnies cuffs. I don't want this boy tryin anything
funny."
Heath watched as Clay did as he was told and left the cell. Once he was alone
with James he figured he could gain the upper hand. Slowly reaching up as if to
feel the cut below his left eye he quickly swung around and knocked the gun out
of James's hand with his forearm.
James quickly shoved Heath backwards into the bars of the cell and dove for the
gun that lay just a few feet away on the floor near the edge of the cot.
Lunging forward Heath landed on top of James as he struggled to reach the gun.
As James's hand found the gun, Heath's hand did also. Thrusting his left elbow
up and back, James managed to deliver a hard blow to Heath's left side.
Grunting in pain Heath reached up with his free hand and grabbed James by the
hair and pulled his head backwards before pushing it forwards into the dirt
floor.
Hearing the struggle in the other room Clay grabbed the cuffs and quickly made
his way back into the cell just in time to see Heath push James's face into the
dirt. Pulling out his gun and placing the barrel next to Heath's head, Clay
warned him. "Get off him now boy or I'll put a bullet in your head!"
Heath reluctantly let go of the gun with his right hand and rolled off of
James. Using the cot to pull himself up, Heath stood in front of Clay as Clay
leveled the gun at his chest.
An infuriated James quickly jumped up to his feet and grabbed Heath by his
shirt. "I should kill you!" He shouted as Heath watched the blood
from his nose mix with the dirt on his face and drip down onto his shirt.
"Gimme those cuffs!" He shouted holding his hand out to Clay.
Taking the cuffs he spun Heath around, clasped both of his hands together and
slammed them into Heath's back knocking him to the floor. Kneeling down and
placing his knee between Heath's shoulder blades he grabbed Heath's hands and
pulled them backwards placing the cuffs on them securing them behind his back.
Standing up he bent down and grabbed Heaths arm and pulled him to his feet.
"Now you won't be any trouble," laughed James in Heath's face.
Knowing he shouldn't but finding the need to anyhow, Heath leaned forward
slightly and spit in James face.
The blow came from his left and smashed into the side of his head knocking him
to the ground. James began kicking him as soon as he hit the dirt floor; Clay
joined him shortly there after. Trying as best he could to curl up into a ball
Heath couldn't protect himself with his hands cuffed the way they were. The
blows rained down on him from both directions. His ribs were taking a severe
beating. As the beating let up he tried to catch his breath but found it simply
to painful. Everything hurt, his breathing came in short shallow pants, it was
all his battered chest would allow. He could feel blood running down his face
once again.
Bending over James unwrapped the kerchief from around his neck and used it to
gag Heath. Tying it tightly behind Heath's head James stood up and kicked him
in the stomach one more time before picking up his gun and leaving the cell.
Clay followed James out into the front office and closed the door leading back
to the cells.
"Johnnie's not gonna like you roughin him up like that." Stated Clay
as he sat on the corner of John's desk.
"Just look what he did to me!" Shouted James as he pointed to the
blood still running freely from his nose. "You expect me to let him get
away with that!"
"I'm not saying that, but I am saying Johnnie's not gonna like it." Answered
Clay as he walked over to the front window and peered outside.
"Damit Clay you was beatin on him too!" Replied James as he wiped
some of the blood off his face with his shirt sleeve.
"I know James, but I think you went to far. He doesn't look any to
good." Said Clay turning around to face James.
"Johnnie told us to keep him quiet and we did. Don't worry we'll be
fine."
"I sure hope so," stated Clay more to himself than to James.
Heath lay on his right side on the floor of the cell desperately trying to
breath. The gag he was wearing and the beating he'd just received were severely
limiting the amount of oxygen his lungs could take in. Trying to draw air in
through the gag was like breathing out of a straw. With his nose broken he
could only breath through his mouth. As he lay there he started to panic as his
body craved more and more oxygen but not enough was being delivered. With his
eye nearly bulging from it's socket he desperately struggled to drawn in a
breath. Just before passing out he saw Nick's face and heard his voice in his
head, "I'm comin boy."
* * * * * * * * *
*
"What's the matter
Nick?" Questioned Eugene as he watched his older brother jump down from
Coco's back into the middle of the road.
"Didn't you hear that?" Asked Nick as he walked around in the road in
front of his brothers looking off into the distance.
"Hear what Nick?" Asked Jarrod as he surveyed the road around them.
"I swore I heard somebody call out for help," he answered continuing
to look around.
"Nick we haven't seen anyone for miles." Replied Jarrod as he
continued to watch Nick look around.
"I know what I heard Jarrod!" Shouted Nick more than a little
perturbed at his older brother for doubting him.
"It looks like there may be a town up a head." Said Eugene as he
pulled his hat down further shading his eyes from the sun. "Maybe it came
from there Nick."
"It sounded a lot closer than that," stated Nick, as he looked around
one more time.
Jarrod watched as Nick looked around as though puzzled. Nick had been quiet
pretty much the entire trip, which wasn't like him at all. He'd half expected
Nick to challenge him on his decision to go and look for Heath but he hadn't
uttered a word. Was it really too much to hope that Nick had changed his mind
and was willing to accept Heath?
Climbing back up into the saddle Nick started off towards the town. He didn't
know how to tell his brothers the voice he swore he'd heard had sounded just
like Heath. But if it had been Heath then where was he and why didn't Jarrod or
Gene hear him too. For the first time he actually began to wonder if something
really did happen to Heath. For some reason he couldn't shake the feeling that
something bad had happened to him.
Drawing close to the town the trio looked around as they passed a small group
of homes. The houses were small and all identical to one another. They appeared
in good shape but looked uninhabited. Walking their horsed down main street
they passed the Inn where Hiram met Heath, the shades where all drawn and a
closed sign hung on the front door. The streets were deserted and most of
buildings had their shades drawn. It was hard to tell if anyone actually lived
in the small town.
"Doesn't look as though anyone lives here," stated Eugene as he
looked over at his brothers.
"There's some horses tied up ahead," replied Nick as he spurred Coco
on a little faster.
Pulling up in front of the saloon the three brothers dismounted and made their
way inside. "What can I get for you gentlemen?" Asked the bartender
as he walked over towards the brothers.
"Three beers," Replied Nick as he pulled out a chair and sat down.
Looking around he noticed the only other patrons in the saloon looking back at
him. Elbowing Jarrod he watched as one of the men stood up and headed over towards
them.
"Afternoon gentlemen names John Crocker, Sheriff John Crocker."
Stated John as he stood next to Jarrod and eyed the trio.
"Afternoon sheriff, I'm Jarrod Barkley and these are my brothers Nick and
Eugene." Answered Jarrod as he reached out to shake the sheriffs hand.
"What brings you boys all the way out here?" Questioned John as he
ran his hand over his beard.
"We're looking for someone," Replied Nick gruffly, "maybe you've
seen him. He's about my height has blonde hair and blue eyes, calls himself
Heath."
"No... no can't say as I've seen him. We don't usually get to many
visitors around here. Why ya lookin for him? Is he wanted for something?"
Questioned John as he once again rubbed his beard.
"No he's our brother," answered Jarrod.
"Well I'll certainly keep an eye out for him in case he comes this way,
but like I said we don't get to many visitors." Replied John as he smiled
down at the brothers. "You boys are the first visitors we've had in over a
month. You plannin on staying long?" He added.
"Just long enough to finish our beers," answered Nick as he eyed the
sheriff. Something about the man just didn't sit right with him. Here they were
in a town that was all but deserted and the sheriff looked as though he
belonged in a place more like San Francisco. The mans clothing was impeccably
clean and the gun belt he wore was unlike any other sheriffs he had ever seen.
It resembled something a hired gun might wear.
"Well then boys enjoy your beers, and if I see that brother your talking
about I make sure and tell him you're out looking for him." Said John
before heading back over to his table. Sitting down he grabbed a hold of his
beer and took a nice long drink. If he could just keep things under control
until these boys left he'd have his prisoner for a long time. Long enough to
teach the heathens in this town just what happens when they conspire against
him.
Finishing their beers the brothers decided to head back out on the trail.
Thanking the sheriff they were soon mounted and heading out of town. John
walked over to the saloons doors and watched them go. But what he didn't know
was that someone else was watching them ride away too. Mary Chatman pulled back
the window shade slightly and watched as the three men made their way out of
town. "Oh how I wish I were one of them," she thought as she watched
them go. "If only I could get away from here, from him." She thought
as she looked over at John standing in front of the saloon. "Then I'd be
free of him."
Walking back into his office
John found Clay and James playing a game of cards on his desk. "How's our
prisoner?" He asked as he stored his riffle back in the gun cabinet.
"He's been quiet," laughed James as he lied down his hand.
"He didn't cause any trouble did he?" Asked Johnnie as he turned
around and faced his men.
"Nothin we couldn't handle." Answered James with a chuckle.
"What's that supposed to mean?"
"He got a little out a line but we took care of it, didn't we Clay."
Replied James as he elbowed Clay.
"What happened Clay?" Questioned John as he took a step towards them.
"We was doin like ya said John, you know keepin him quiet an all but he
took a swing at James and knocked him down. We finally got some cuffs and a gag
on him but he got roughed up some." Replied Clay as he avoided looking at
John.
"How roughed up?" Asked John impatiently. "I said how roughed up
Clay!"
"He's not looking to good Johnnie.... I told James to stop but he kept
kickin him an..."
"Shut up Clay! You were right there alongside me! It's as much your fault
as mine!" Shouted James as he stood up and shoved Clay backwards.
"Damn it!" Shouted John as he hurried back into the cell area.
Opening the door to Heath's cell he rushed over to the downed man. Untying the
gag from around Heath's head he was shocked to see the bluish tint the boys
lips had taken on. "Clay! James! Get in here!" Taking the key out of
his back pocket he unlocked the irons so cruelly binding Heath's arms behind
his back.
"Help me lift him up on the cot," said John as they both entered the
cell.
The three men lifted and unconscious Heath onto the cot. "Clay run and get
Doc Chatman, tell him I need him right away!" Stated John as he bent down
to check on Heath's breathing. After making sure he was still alive John stood
up and confronted James.
"Can't you do anything right!" He shouted grabbing James's shirt.
"You were just supposed to keep him quiet not almost kill him!" He
added shoving James to the floor.
"He tried to get away Johnnie I swear it!" Stated James as he cowered
at John's feet.
"Get out!" Shouted John as he kicked James, "get out!"
James scrambled out of the cell and out the front door. Kneeling down next to
Heath's cot John started to check him over. With the gag removed his breathing
was a little easier but Johnnie still didn't like the sound of it. The cut on
his cheek had opened up once again along with the one on his lower lip. Dirt
stuck to both the sweat and blood on his face and chest. John could already see
bruises forming on the boy's chest and rib cage from the beating.
Hearing the door to his office open he stood up and met the doctor as he
entered the cell area. "My boys got a little rough with him doc, I need
you to fix him up some." Stated Johnnie as he moved out of the way so the
doctor could enter the cell.
As the doctor made his way into the cell his daughter Mary followed quietly
behind him.
"What's she doing here?" Questioned John as he grabbed Mary's arm
before she could pass.
"I thought I might need her help and I was right. Mary run and get me some
clean water," said Doc Chatman as he handed a bucket to Mary. "I'll
need some clean cloth too."
Mary stood and looked at the floor as John held her arm firmly. "Now
Mary," stated Doc Chatman as he placed a hand on her shoulder.
Looking up at her father and then up at the man she hated, Mary took the bucket
and fled the cell the moment John released her.
"This boys in bad shape sheriff." Stated the Doc as he began his
examination.
"My boys gotta little rough is all," stated John as he walked over
next to the doctor.
"I'd say your "boys" got more than a little rough." Replied
the doctor looking up at John.
"Just fix him up Doc!" Shouted John angrily before storming out of
the cell.
Hurrying down the sidewalk Mary made her way back into the jail and quickly
past John so she could help her father. "Here father," she said
handing him the bucket and strips of clean white cloth.
"Thank you child, now dip these in some water and help me clean him up
some." Stated the Doc as he handed some of the clean strips back to Mary.
"Be careful Mary, this is going to be painful enough for him."
Taking one of the clean strips Mary soaked it in the cool water and gently
began to wipe some of the dirt off of Heath's forehead while her father cut off
the rest of his shirt. Mary could hardly believe this was the same man she
served breakfast to earlier that morning. He didn't really look good then but
now he looked and sounded so much worse.
"Father?" Asked Mary as she continued to gently wipe Heath's face.
"Yes Mary?"
"Why does he sound like that?" She asked questioning the sound of
Heath's labored breathing.
"I think he may have a few broken ribs, I'll know more in a minute after I
examine him." Replied her father as he began poking around Heath's ribs.
Mary watched as the injured young man moved slightly and groaned as her father
poked around on his stomach and chest. Continuing to clean off his face as best
she could, she was startled when his one good eye opened and looked up at her.
"Father, he's awake." She said sitting back away from Heath on the
cot.
"Hello there young man, I'm Doctor Chatman. How are you feeling?" He
asked as he sat down on the cot next to Heath.
Heath looked up at the doctor, he could see the doctors mouth moving but
couldn't quite make out what he was saying. There was a terrible ringing in his
ears and compiled with the pounding in his head it drowned out everything.
Closing his eye he decided to try and sit up. The moment he tightened his
abdominal muscles and tried to push himself up on the cot with his arms he knew
it had been a mistake. Sharp stabbing pains radiated down his chest and stomach
taking away what little breath his lungs had been able to hold. Falling back
down onto the cot Heath tried desperately to get air into his burning lungs.
Desperate he opened his eye and looked up at the doctor for help.
"Easy now son," Said Doc Chatman as he placed his hands gently on
Heath's shoulders, "calm down, it'll be easier for you to breath if you
do." Added the doctor noticing the terror in Heath's eye.
Heath felt a cool cloth on his forehead and looked up to see eyes as blue as
the ocean staring back at him. It was the young woman who'd brought him
breakfast earlier that morning. Closing his eye he tried to relax his breathing
as the young girl dabbed his forehead with the cool cloth. As he finally
managed to regulate his breathing the ringing in his ears diminished some.
Hearing the Doctor speak to him he opened up his eye.
"Son I'm going to wrap these ribs of yours. That should make it easier for
you to breath. That cut under your eye and the one on your chin are going to
need some stitching. I can offer you a shot of whiskey to help with the pain
but I'm afraid that's all I have." Stated the Doctor as he looked down on
Heath.
Nodding his head slightly, Heath tried to assure the doctor he understood what
was said. Taking a drink of the whiskey the doc offered him Heath once again
closed his eye and tried to relax his aching body. Feeling the young woman run
the cool cloth over his forehead again helped him to relax some. He
concentrated on the memory of her blue eyes and tried to take himself away from
the pain as the doctor cleaned the wounds on his face.
After cleaning up the boys face and wrapping his ribs the doctor applied some
suave to the rope burns on his wrists. "That's about all I can do for
him." He stated to Mary as he put away his instruments.
"You think he'll be all right?" She asked as she gazed down on his
now clean but still swollen and battered face.
"As long as Sheriff Crocker's in control, none of us
are safe." Replied the doctor as he took his daughters hand and led her
out of the cell.
* * * * * * * * *
*
"They're gone," said Gene as he caught up to his
brothers. "They turned around and headed back the way they came." He
told of the men that had been following them since they left the small town.
"I don't like it," stated Nick as he rode along next to Jarrod.
"Don't like what Nick?" Asked Jarrod. He knew something had been
gnawing away at Nick ever since they rode away from the town. He too had felt
uneasy, something just didn't seem right. He had a strange feeling they were
leaving something behind.
"That man was hiding something, I could feel it." Answer Nick looking
over at his older brother.
"The sheriff? What would he have to hide?" Asked Jarrod, the lawyer
in him coming out.
"How the hell should I know? But I know he was!" Shouted Nick.
"You don't think it has to do with Heath?" Asked Jarrod trying to
draw more out of Nick.
"I don't know Jarrod, but I do know that man was no small town sheriff.
Did you notice his guns? And why would he need two deputies in a town that's
practically empty?" Questioned Nick as he pulled Coco to a halt.
"You do raise a good point Nick," replied Jarrod as he pushed his hat
back on his head.
"Why don't we just head back in tonight and see what if anything he's
hiding." Stated Gene, like it was the simplest thing in the world.
"And how do you propose we do that! Just waltz up Main Street and confront
him!" Replied a frustrated Nick.
"Not exactly Nick, why don't we just sneak back in to town tonight and
have a look around?" Replied Gene as he smiled at Jarrod.
"What'd ya say Nick?" Questioned Jarrod as he straightened up in the
saddle.
Nick sat a top Coco and looked at his brothers. Going back to check out the
town seemed like the right thing to do, in fact the more he thought about it
the more it felt like something he had to do. "We can camp right over
there until it gets dark. Then Jarrod and I'll ride back and check out that
sheriff. Gene you stay and wait for us."
"Why should I wait here?!" Questioned Gene jumping down from his
horse.
"We need someone to guard our backs Gene." Replied Jarrod. "And
besides if Mother knew we were placing you in any kind of danger she'd have our
heads." Added Jarrod slapping Gene on the back.
Nick left Jarrod and Gene alone as he walked Coco back to a shady spot off the
road. Taking his saddle down from Coco's back, Nick set it on the ground and
lay down with his head propped up against it. Looking out over the flowing
meadow his thoughts drifted back to the ranch and Heath. Closing his eyes and
frowning he tried to turn his thoughts away from the man claiming to be his
fathers son but he found it impossible. Why couldn't he keep Heath out of his
head? Why must he always picture those damn blue eyes looking at him, threw
him. Those eyes so much like .... like... his fathers.
Nick's eyes shot open as he sat straight up. Shaking his head he tried shaking
the images of Heath and his father out. It's not true! It can't be his mind
screamed. Father would never do such a thing, he'd never stray from Mother or
leave a child to grow up the way Heath had. It has to be a lie, it has too! But
even as the words rang in his head his heart began to tell him a different
story. He began to see things that were always there, things he just never
wanted to accept before. Like Heath's laugh, it sounded so much like his
fathers, why hadn't he noticed it before. His eyes and the way he thought
through things before reacting were identical to fathers. Even the way Heath
walked reminded Nick of his father. How could I have been so blind? I've been
blaming Heath for something he had no control over.
As the guilt of how he'd acted began to wash over him he sent a silent
message out to his lost brother. "I'll find you Heath and when I do I
promise to set things right."
* * * * * * * * *
*
"You know those men'll most
likely come back here when they don't find that brother of theirs." Said
Mark as he sat back in his chair with his feet resting on John's desk.
"And they'll leave again just like they did this time when they don't find
him." Replied John knocking Marks feet off his desk.
"We're pressin our luck keeping that boy Johnnie, sooner or later
somebody's gonna find him." Stated Mark leaning forward in his chair,
"then what a we gonna do?"
"You just let me worry about that!" Spat John, "he's my prisoner
and I got big plans for him."
"What'd ya need him for any how? These people are already beat."
"Don't question me Mark, you didn't question me when we took over this
town so don't start now!" Replied John glaring at his deputy.
"It's just that we got it real good now Johnnie, seems like we're risking
an awful lot keeping that boy." Said Mark, hoping that John would see
things more his way.
"So good? We had two of those so called families try and high tail it outa
here this past week! Or don't you remember!" John replied angrily.
"Seems to me we don't have quite the handle on this town we thought we
did. That boy back there's gonna insure that we will and soon."
"And how'd ya plan on doin that?" Asked Mark as he watched John
smile.
"Once they hear his screams and realize they caused his suffering and
death, I guarantee not a one of those heathens will try anything like this
again. Why I bet even if his brothers waltz back into town nobody'll make an
attempt to talk to em for fear of facing what he got." Laughed John as he
sat back in his chair.
"And here I was thinkin you was gettin sweet on the boy," laughed
Mark as he shook his head.
Outside the jail house door Mary Chatman stood with her basket in hand and
listened to the men inside. A chill ran down her spine as she listened to
Sheriff Crocker's plans for the man he held captive. As she listened to the
part about his brothers she remembered the three riders from earlier that
afternoon. They were his brothers, they'd come so close to him. If only she
could've gotten word to them some how surely they would have helped. Hiram said
the young man was going for help when John and his men captured him, so it
would stand to reason that his brothers would help in the same way. Her
thoughts were interrupted as the door to the jail house flung open.
"What are you doing here girl!" Barked Mark as he grabbed Mary by the
arm and dragged her into the office.
"I... I came with Sheriff Crocker's supper." Replied Mary, her eyes
looking straight down at the floor.
"Well what'a ya doin standin at the door, bring it on over to him!"
Stated Mark as he shoved Mary roughly over towards John's desk.
"That's enough Mark, why don't you leave the two of us alone for a
while." Smiled John as he rose from behind the desk. "I've got a few
things I need to discuss with the young lady."
Mary cringed as John's hand wrapped around her upper arm. She felt the bile in
her stomach rise as he pressed his body firmly against hers.
"You have fun now Johnnie, I'll see ya later in the saloon with the
boys." Laughed Mark knowing full well why John wanted to be a lone with
the pretty young woman.
Mary watched as the outside world was there briefly and gone once again as the
office door closed. "Here's your supper Mr. Crocker," she said meekly
holding the basket up for him.
Taking the basket from her hand and placing it on his desk, John turned the
young woman around to face him. "I'm not really hungry right now, why
don't we go in the back and make ourselves more comfortable." With that he
took
Mary by the arm and forced her back towards the holding cells.
"Please Mr. Crocker my fathers expecting me back home," she pleaded
as John led her into one of the unused cells.
"He won't miss you for a little while, here have a seat." Stated John
as he forced Mary to sit on the empty cot. Looking into the cell next to him
John watched as Heath lay sleeping.
"Looks like your knight in shinning armor is still out cold," he
laughed sitting down next to Mary. "My what pretty eyes you have," he
added as he cupped her cheek with his hand. "Your skin is so soft so
inviting," he said
his mouth drawing closer to hers.
As Mary tried to back away, John placed both of his hands on the sides of her
face and forced her head towards his. Kissing her fully on the lips he pushed
her backwards onto the cot and climbed on top of her. Panicking as his weight
crushed down upon her Mary tried desperately to get out from under him. Turning
her head away from him she managed to scream until his hands turned her head
and his mouth found hers again smothering it.
Hearing Mary's screams Heath awoke sore and confused. The light in the cell
area was waning as the sun began to set. Hearing a muffed cry Heath forced his
foggy brain to function and tried to sit up. The pain in his side was almost
unbearable but somehow he managed to lift his body up into a sitting position.
Looking over in the direction of the noise he saw a sight that enraged him.
There in the next cell was Sheriff Crocker fondling the young
woman who had been so kind to him.
"Get off of her!" He shouted weakly as he struggled to stand.
Placing one hand over Mary's mouth and the other over her breast holding her
down, John turned his attention to Heath. "I'd about given you up for dead
boy," laughed John as he watched Heath struggle to stand.
"Let her go!" Heath said as he staggered slowly towards the bars of
his cell.
"Now you mind your own business son, me and the little lady are just
getting better acquainted," replied John as he once again began to kiss
and fondle Mary.
Mary struggled even harder as she felt John's hand come up underneath her dress
and pull at her undergarments. "No...please..." she tried to cry as
the sheriff smothered her mouth with his own.
Heath made it over to the bars of the cell joining his with the one Mary was in
just as John managed to pull Mary's undergarments down to her ankles. Unbuckling
his own belt with one hand he was soon positioned to take from the young woman
what no man had ever previously.
"Don't!" Shouted Heath as he grabbed a hold of the bars for support.
"Leave her alone or I swear I'll kill you."
John turned his head and laughed at Heath before plunging his manhood into
Mary. Mary's scream tore straight through Heath's heart; slumping down to his
knees he tried to catch his breath as the rage inside him built with
each passing moment. Not being able to help the young woman really tore at his
heart, for the first time in a long while he felt utterly defeated.
After John finished he left the crying woman lying on the cot and went over to
the bars next to Heath, "you want a turn next boy?" He laughed
heartily as he watched Heath struggle to stand.
"Your no better than a dog," stated Heath through clenched teeth as
he glared at John.
"You got it all wrong son, it's them that's no better than dogs." He
replied pointing over at Mary. "At least now she can say she's had one
real man." He added laughing.
"You're no man, you're an animal," seethed Heath as he tried to grab
John through the bars.
"No son," laughed John as he easily dodged away from Heath's arm.
"It's them and sympathizers like you that are the real animals. You
Heathens go against everything the good book says."
"Since when did the "good book" say it was alright to kill
innocent men, women, an children?" Questioned Heath sarcastically as he
held onto the bars for support.
"Innocent? These folks are anything but innocent son," laughed John.
"Don't you realize they're already damned!" He added laughing even
harder.
"It's you that has it backwards sheriff, you're the one who's
damned," spat Heath as he glared at John.
Taking a step closer to Heath's cell, John stopped laughing. "You know boy
you just about plum wore out your welcome here," he stated angrily.
"I done had about enough of your smart tongue." Turning his back on
Heath, John
walked back over to the cot where Mary lay gently sobbing. "No more a that
now," he stated as he bent down and grabbed her arm. "Fix yourself up
and get on home," he added pulling her to her feet. Lifting up her chin he
looked her directly in the eye as he spoke, "now remember you breath a
word of this and I'll kill that daddy of yours. Then I just might take those
fine looking wives of his to boot."
Mary looked up into his eyes and knew he meant every word. Shaking her head in
agreement she slowly fixed her clothing as John walked out of the cell.
"Mary," Heath said quietly.
Turning to face him Mary walked up the bars and grasped his hand. She could see
the emotion toll this had taken on him as well. "There's nothing you could
have done, there's no way you could've stopped him."
Seeing such sadness in her eyes broke his heart. "I promise you Mary he
won't get away with this."
Seeing the sincerity and hurt in his eyes brought her a little comfort,
"I'm afraid he will as long as we all keep letting him." She stated
as a tear ran down her cheek. "He plans on killing you to frighten us. He
doesn't want any of us to leave."
"I figured as much," replied Heath holding onto Mary’s hand.
"There were three men in town earlier today looking for you, I heard John
say they were your brothers."
"My brothers? Where are they now?" Asked Heath as he straightened up
a little.
"They left, John told them he hadn't seen you." Replied Mary as she
watched some of the hope fade from his eye.
Mary turned as she heard John's boots announcing his return, "get out her
woman and leave him be!" Shouted John as he grabbed Mary by the arm and
roughly escorted her out of the cell area. Opening the door to the jail he
thrust her through it and out on to the sidewalk. "Remember what I told
you, not a word." He said before slamming the door.
Heath slowly made his way back over to the cot and sat down gingerly. Laying
down he closed his eye and pictured his brothers. They'd been so close, if only
some how he could've let them know where he was. But how? And Mary said there
were three men, was Nick one of them? He hadn't figured on that, he thought
Nick would've been glad he was gone. In fact he'd probably throw a party to
celebrate. The thought made Heath chuckle, he could just picture the smile on
Nick's face as he ran around telling everyone how right he'd been all along.
"That's all I've ever wanted for you Nick, was to be happy," thought
Heath as he pictured his brother smiling. "If I'd a known what destroying
the image of your father would do to you, I'd a never come."
* * * * * * * * *
*
Mary hurried down the darkening sidewalk wiping the tears
from her eyes. She had to figure out a way to keep what happened between her
and the sheriff a secret. She was positive her father would be able to tell the
moment he saw her she was no longer a virgin. And if he found out he'd most
certainly confront the sheriff. Mary cringed at the thought of her father going
up against John Crocker and his men. Her father was only a doctor, not a hired
gun, in fact he didn't even carry a gun. He wouldn't stand a chance and she knew
it. Walking in front of the Inn she heard a noise around back that sounded
strange but familiar. Slowly creeping down the ally next to the Inn she peeked
around the back corner of the building to try and find out what was causing the
small commotion she'd heard.
There standing under the small stable was the most beautiful mare she'd ever
seen. She had a chestnut brown coat with a lush black mane and long black tail.
The noise she heard was the mare trying to lower her head down into a bucket of
water someone placed beneath her. Problem was her lead was to short and she
couldn't quite reach it.
"Quiet now," Mary, said softly as she ran her hand over the horse’s
flank. "Let me help you." Picking up the bucket she held it under the
horses head so she could drink. "There now isn't that better," she
said brushing through the mares mane with her free hand. "I haven't seen
you around before, why you must be Heath's horse huh girl. I should a known
he'd have a pretty horse like you." She added as the mare continued to
drink.
When the horse finished Mary put down the bucket and rubbed the mare's nose.
Looking at the mare the image of Heath's brothers flashed in her mind. "I
can help him," she thought. "I can use you to find his
brothers." Walking away from the mare she crept back down the now dark
alley and peered around the corner at the sheriff’s office. Light was shinning
through the window so she figured the sheriff was still inside. Looking across
the street at the saloon she could hear the sheriffs deputies inside laughing
and shouting. If she waited here for the sheriff to join his men, she could
easily ease the horse down the street and ride off in search of Heath's
brothers.
Stretching her cramped muscles, Mary watched as the light in the sheriff’s office
went out. She held her breath as the door opened and John Crocker stepped out.
She watching him walk slowly over to the saloon all the while looking around as
if he knew someone was watching him. After waiting a while longer to ensure the
sheriff was going to stay in the saloon, Mary quietly walked back to get the
mare. As she came around the edge of the building she was startled when someone
grabbed her arm. Clapping her hand over her mouth to try and stifle the scream
building up inside her, Mary turned to face Hiram Brown. "Mr. Brown,"
she said as relief washed over her.
"Mary what are you doing back here, alone?" Questioned Hiram just
barely above a whisper.
"I'm taking the mare and going for help," stated Mary as she
continued on towards the mare.
"Do you know what you're doing child?" Asked Hiram as he hurried to
get in front of her.
Mary stopped and looked up at Hiram, his face still bore marks from the beating
he'd sustained at the sheriff’s hands. "I do Mr. Brown, if we just sit
back and do nothing as usual their going to kill Heath. I can't sit back and
let that happen any more."
Hiram heard the conviction in her voice and saw it in her eyes, "Mary if
they catch you... you know what'll happen don't you?"
"The same thing that'll happen if I don't go Mr. Brown."
"Mary do be careful," he warned as he gave her a quick hug.
"Mr. Brown, please tell my father... tell him I'm sorry." Mary said
sadly as she started to lead the mare away from the stable.
Slowly walking the mare down the alley Mary's stomach began to churn. She could
see the light spilling out from the saloons doors into the street as she
approached the end of the alley. "All right girl, we need to be real quiet
now." She whispered to the horse as she gently rubbed it's nose. Knowing she
could be seen once she left the security of the alley, Mary gathered up all of
her courage and stepped out into the roadway. As a shadow passed in front of
the saloon doors her heart leapt up in her throat stealing her breath. Keeping
up her slow but steady pace, she was soon
several buildings away from the saloon. Breathing a short sigh of relief she
lead the mare on a little faster until they were about a quarter mile outside
of town. Looking back on the dark town one more time, she was about to jump up
on the mare’s back when she was grabbed from behind. Mary tried to scream but
found it impossible with a gloved hand clamped securely over her mouth. Try as
she might to escape her captor, his vise like arms held her tight.
* * * * * * * * *
*
"Shhhhhh we're not trying to hurt you." Stated
Nick as he held onto the frightened young woman.
Upon hearing his voice Mary realized it wasn't John or one of his men that had
grabbed her but someone else. Calming down some she tried to turn and view her
abductor.
Nick feeling the girl relax a little decided to allow her enough freedom to
turn around although still keeping a firm grip on her.
Looking at the handsome cowboy in the large black hat, Mary remembered him from
earlier that afternoon. "I was on my way to find you," she said as
tears sprung from her eyes and she fell into Nick’s arms. Her whole body
relaxed in relief as Nick comforted her. She'd never felt so relieved, finding
Heath's brothers gave her hope that John Crocker and his men could finally be
defeated.
Nick looked over at Jarrod as he walked up beside them and spoke to the young
woman. "Can you tell us why you were trying to find us?" He asked as
he gently placed his hand on Mary's shoulder.
Looking over at Heath's other brother the first thing Mary noticed were his
eyes. They were so much like Heaths, they weren't the same shade of blue as
Heath's but they were just as caring and loving. "You're his brothers
aren't you?" She asked reaching out and touching Jarrod's cheek.
"Are you talking about Heath?" Questioned Jarrod as he watched the
young woman carefully take in every detail of their faces.
"Yes... Heath," said Mary almost as a whisper.
"Can you tell us where he is?" Asked Jarrod as he looked over at
Nick.
Mary looked back over at Jarrod and reached out to touch his cheek again. She
had to make sure he was real. "He's in the jail."
"Well let’s just go and get him!" Stated Nick as he let Mary go from
his grasp.
"Oh but you can't! The sheriff and his men will kill you!" Exclaimed
Mary as she grabbed Nicks arm.
Nick saw the panic in the young woman's eyes as she pleaded with him not to
confront the sheriff. "He's just one man with two small town deputies how
much trouble could he be?" Questioned Nick as he looked over at Jarrod.
"You don't understand, he's killed before. He doesn't like us, and he
doesn't have just two deputies there are five of them and they all know how to
use a gun."
"Mary?" Questioned Jarrod as he reached out and held her upper arms
gently. "What do you mean he doesn't like you?"
Mary looked into Jarrod's blue eyes, the same caring eyes as Heath's and knew
she'd made the right choice in coming to find them. "Everyone in the town,
he hates us all." She answered and watched Jarrod's brow wrinkle.
"Why would he hate the entire town?" Questioned Nick placing his
hands on his hips.
"Because... because we're..." began Mary before stopping and looking
down at the ground.
"Because you're what?" Asked Jarrod as he gently tilted Mary's head
back up to meet his gaze.
"Mormons," Mary replied quietly as Jarrod looked over at Nick.
"You're all Mormons?" Questioned Nick.
"We came here altogether over a year ago to start over; to live in peace
in a town of our own where we wouldn't be hounded or exiled for our beliefs. A
little over four months ago the sheriff, John Crocker, came into town with his
men. He promised that for a small fee he would keep us safe and run off any
unwanted visitors. He did just that for a while but then things changed."
Stated Mary as she remembered back to Sarah's death.
"What changed?" Asked Nick as he still tried to contemplate an entire
town of Mormons and what the sheriff could possibly want with them. And how the
hell did Heath figure into this?
"They murdered Sarah and then her husband Lloyd. They killed old man Evans
too because he saw what they did. After that they told us not to leave or
they'd kill us. They took all our money and anything else they wanted."
Mary added as tears began to once again fall down her cheeks.
"Why'd they take Heath?" Questioned Nick as Jarrod put his arm around
Mary in an effort to comfort her.
Looking up at Nick as she spoke Mary told them as much as she knew. "Hiram
said Heath was going to get help for us, he was going to ride on to the next
town and bring back a real sheriff. But Mr. Crocker stopped him before he could
get out of town. Then they beat out of Hiram what Heath's plans were. They beat
Heath too."
"How is he? Is he all right?" Asked Jarrod in a very concerned voice.
Mary shook her head no as the battered image of Heath lying on the cot came
into her head. "My fathers the doctor and he looked after him some but
they beat him up real bad."
Nick stormed around in the dirt his spurs jingling. They beat him! Six against
one and they beat him! The more he thought about Heath alone against those men
the more angry he became. "Those worthless animals!" He shouted,
pounding his fist into the palm of his hand. "Oh when I get my hands on
them they'll wish they never laid eyes on that boy!"
Jarrod watched as Nick stormed around in a circle ranting and raving. The site
actually warmed his heart, he knew once Nick let Heath inside his heart he
couldn't help but realize he was truly a Barkley.
"Mr. Crocker plans on killing your brother that's why I had to come and
find you. I just couldn't live with myself if I didn't" Stated Mary as she
looked between the brothers.
"Thank you Mary," said Jarrod as he squeezed her a little tighter.
"Come on Jarrod we gotta get that boy out a there before they do kill
him." Stated Nick as he stormed over to Coco.
* * * * * * * * *
*
Light was once again shinning from inside the sheriffs
office and pooling out onto the street as Jarrod, Nick, and Mary made their way
into town. Standing between two buildings in the shadows Mary pointed out the
sheriff's office and the saloon to Nick and Jarrod.
"When I left they were all in the saloon, but the lights back on in the
jail now." Whispered Mary as she pointed at the jail.
Nick looked around at the surrounding buildings and noticed most of them were
dark. The few that showed any signs life had their shades buttoned down
tightly. He didn't figure on getting any help there. He figured their best
opportunity to thin the sheriff’s men some was to take them as they came out of
the saloon. If their luck held out hopefully they'd come out one at a time and
drunk.
"Mary you'd better get on home, you've helped us enough," said Jarrod
as he turned towards her in the dark alley.
"Please Mr. Barkley, I'd much rather stay and help."
"Just knowing your home safe would be help enough Mary." Replied
Jarrod as he turned her around and walked her to the back end of the alley.
"Be careful Mr. Barkley," Mary said before making her way along
behind the buildings.
Hearing Jarrod return to his side, Nick turned around to face his brother.
"Lets move closer to the saloon. We'll try and take them quietly as they
come out." Jarrod nodded and followed Nick as they silently crept towards
the saloon. Making there way up along side the saloon they listened to the
commotion going on inside. They weren't outside long when they heard the doors
of the saloon open and bang shut as one of the occupants walked out onto the
sidewalk.
Like a mountain lion waiting for it's prey, Nick crouched down and waited for
his victim to pass by the alley.
* * * * * * * * *
*
Art staggered half drunk out of the saloon and decided
he'd go scratch and itch that had been growing in his pants all evening. He'd
spied the Stenson girl walking into the store earlier in the day and noticed
how much she'd matured. She was no longer a young girl but a fine looking
woman, one he meant to get a hold of. Turning towards her house he stepped off
the sidewalk and into the alley between the saloon and dress shop.
As the unknown man stepped off the sidewalk and into the alley Nick was on him
in an instant. Knocking him in the back of the head with his gun butt, Nick
shoved him down pinning him in the dirt as he grabbed his hands and tied them
behind his back. Jarrod grabbed some of the cloth strips they'd readied and
shoved one into Art's mouth. Tying another strip around his head to hold that
one in place, Jarrod effectively gagged him.
"Let's drag him around back before anyone sees us," stated Nick
quietly while grabbing the unconscious mans arm. Grabbing his other arm, Jarrod
helped Nick drag the man around to the rear of the saloon. Dumping him in the
back they made their way back up the alley to wait.
They didn't have to wait long before the doors to the saloon banged open once
again and two voices made their way towards the alley. Nick looked back at
Jarrod and held up two fingers, nodding Jarrod readied himself.
Cole Mitchell and Clay Butler laughed and joked about something only the two
semi-drunken men could understand as they stepped off the sidewalk and into the
alley's entrance. Nick and Jarrod leapt as one and grabbed both Clay and Cole
before they had a chance to react. Quickly knocking the two men unconscious
they went about the task of tying them up.
Unknown to them their little attack hadn't gone unnoticed. James Turney had
exited the saloon at the same time as Clay and Cole. He'd just waited by the
saloon doors to light a cigar before following his friend’s back to the
sheriff’s office. Witnessing Clay and Cole being jumped by two strange men,
James quietly slipped back into the saloon undetected. Fleeing through the
saloon he slipped out the back door and into the back alley where he heard
muffed moans and something scratching in the dirt near by. Feeling his way
cautiously down the alley his foot bumped into something soft on the ground
that let out a small moan.
Art tried to lift up his head as James bent down next to him. Trying to mumble
through the gag he motioned for James to untie his hands.
"Shut up!" Whispered James as he pulled out a knife and began cutting
the rope binding Arts hands. Once his hands were free Art pulled down the gag
and spat out the cloth in his mouth. Putting his finger up to his lips James
motioned him to be quiet. Pointing around the corner to the alley he whispered
in Art's ear. "There's two of em' they got Clay and Cole. I figure they'll
drag em' back here like they did you. Then we'll kill em'."
Art smiled in agreement as the pair readied themselves for the attack.
Nick and Jarrod each grabbed a man under the arms and started to drag them down
the alley. "That's far enough!" Shouted James as he and Art crept out
of the shadows at the end of the alley with their guns drawn.
Freezing in their tracks Nick glanced over at Jarrod and nodded slightly. As
quick as lightning both brothers spun around and dropped to their knees using
their captives as shields and opened fire.
Art fell to the ground as a bullet tore through his midsection, trying to
steady his arm as he lay on the ground he returned fire wildly. One of his
bullets struck unconscious Clay in the chest killing him instantly.
James dove behind the saloon for cover as a halo of bullets ricocheted around
him. Returning fire from around the corner of the building James fired at the
two men in the alley.
Looking over to his left Nick noticed a door on the side of the dress shop.
Pushing Cole away from himself he jumped up firing and crashed through the door
and into the dress shop. Quickly jumping back up he raced to the door and
opened fire as Jarrod ran towards him.
"You all right?" Asked Nick once Jarrod was safely inside.
"Fine, it's just a graze." he replied holding his left arm.
Reaching over behind him Nick pulled a large piece of fabric off one of the
dresses hanging in the back room. Tying it around Jarrod's arm he then helped
him to his feet. "We'd better get out of here, all that shootings goin ta
bring that sheriff for sure."
Hearing the gunfire cease, James carefully made his way around the corner of
the saloon and out into the alley. Kneeling down next to Art he turned him over
only to find his friends lifeless eyes staring back up at him. Moving slowly
down the alley he came up next to Clay only to find him dead as well. Hearing
footsteps quickly approaching the end of the alley he laid down next to Clay
and readied himself.
Mark pulled up in front of the dress shop and peered around the corner of the
building into the alley. Seeing his friend’s face reflected in the light from
the saloon, James called out to him. "Mark! Watch out! There are two of
them! They killed Clay and Art!"
"Where are they?" Questioned Mark as he crouched down.
"They went in through the side door of the dress shop."
With his back against the dress shop wall Mark made his way down the alley
towards James. Stopping just shy of the open door he looked over at James who
was still lying next to Clay. "You Ok?"
"Yeah, I'm not sure about Cole though." He answered pointing over at
Cole's still form.
"Who are they?" Questioned Mark as he scanned the alleyway.
"Looked like the same men that rode in here earlier." Replied James
as he scooted over to Cole. Untying Cole's hands James rolled him over.
"He's alive, but he took a pretty good knock on the head." He said
noticing the bump on Cole's head. "Don't think he's gonna be much use to
us." He added quietly as he made his way over to the other side of the
door across from Mark.
"We'd best get on back and get the sheriff," stated Mark as he
pointed inside the door and silently counted down from three to one on his
fingers.
"Yeah wouldn't want to cheat him out of a kill," replied James as he
watched Mark count down silently.
When Mark counted down to one both men dove through the open door and into the
dress shop. Mark rolled to his right while James rolled to his left both with
guns drawn.
* * * * * * * * *
*
Heath rolled over on his cot and struggled to sit up as he
listened to the gunshots outside. Slowly standing up and holding on to the cot
for support, he made his way towards the small window, although his cell was
dark he couldn't make out any of the activity taking place down the street. He
turned and squinted as the doors to the cell area opened and light from the
office spilled in with it. "Well boy I see you're feelin better,"
Laughed Johnnie as he walked in carrying a rifle and lit the lamp outside of
Heath's cell. "You sure as hell don't look any better," he added
laughing even harder.
Leaning his back against the wall for support Heath looked over at the sheriff.
"Sounds like trouble in your little town, sheriff."
"No trouble at all boy," laughed John as he stood in front of Heath's
cell. "That's just the boys throwing off a little steam is all."
Heath looked at the smile on John's face and noticed right away that it didn't
reach up into his eyes like normal. "I think it's more than that sheriff,
I think there's something else going on. Who's really out there?" He asked
once again turning to look out the window.
"You'd like to think it was someone else wouldn't you boy," John
laughed. "Maybe you think it's someone come to save you."
"Someone like my brothers?" Questioned Heath as he turned back around
to face John.
John stopped laughing and glared at Heath. There was no way that boy could've
known about his brothers being here earlier. Who would've told him? None of the
boys had been in the back with him. He couldn't have seen them ride in to or
out of town. So how could he possibly know? "Your brothers? I think one of
the boys must have hit you a little too hard son." Stated John as he forced
himself to smile.
"I know they were here earlier sheriff and I have a gut feeling they're
here right now." Heath stated calmly. "What's the matter sheriff,
afraid your little empire is about to topple?" He added with a half smile.
"You don't know what you're talking about boy!" John shouted as he
grabbed the bars in front of Heath.
"Oh but I think I do, I think my brothers are out there and they're
looking for me." Stated Heath as he slowly walked towards the sheriff.
"Well boy the only way they're going to find you is dead!" Shouted
John as he raised the rifle and pointed it at Heath.
Making their way quietly out the back door of the dress shop, Nick and Jarrod
quickly ran behind the building towards the alley they'd just left moments
before. Peering around the corner Nick watched as two men dove into the side
door with their guns drawn. Motioning for Jarrod to follow him Nick ran across
the alley to the back of the saloon. Once safely behind the saloon the two
brothers hid and waited.
Looking over at Mark, James motioned for him to move forwards into the shop
while he covered him. Creeping on his hands and knees Mark silently made his
way into the front room of the dress shop. Looking around and finding no one he
stood up and motioned for James to join him.
"They must a gone out the back," whispered Mark.
"They could be any where by now," replied James. "We should tell
Johnnie."
"I'm not going back there and telling Johnnie that we couldn't handle two
farmers. If you want to explain it to him go right ahead. I'm going after those
two and they're not leaving this town alive!" Answered Mark angrily.
James watched as Mark opened the back door and looked around carefully before
exiting. Looking out the front windows of the shop he could see light coming
from Johnnie's office. Thinking about what Mark said, James knew he was right.
Johnnie would probably shoot him on the spot if he came back empty handed. The
only way out of this was to help Mark and bring in those two men, dead or
alive.
Lying in wait Nick and Jarrod watched as first one shadow then another made
their way out the back door of the dress shop and in to the back alley.
Silently waiting they watched as Mark and James ran past the end of the alley
and right in to there a waiting arms.
"That's far enough boys!" Shouted Nick, as he remained concealed
behind a wooden packing crate.
Not willing to give in to defeat Mark opened fire in the direction of Nick's
voice. Returning fire Nick cut him down. Dropping his gun James raised his hand
over his head and turned to face the brothers. "Don't shoot!" He
shouted as he stared at Mark's crumpled form on the ground in front of him.
"Don't move," stated Nick as he held his gun on James while Jarrod
walked up behind him and grabbed his arms. Once Jarrod had him tied and gagged,
Nick grabbed his arm and forcibly led him down the alley where they stepped
over a still unconscious Cole. Hearing a noise from the sidewalk up ahead both
brothers drew their guns.
Mary peeked around the corner of the dress shop to find Nick and Jarrod holding
James. "Oh thank God!" She exclaimed as she ran down the alley
towards them. "I feared you were dead." She added falling into
Jarrod's arms.
"Mary what are you doing here? We told you to go home, it isn't
safe." Said Jarrod as the young woman with eyes as blue and as deep as the
ocean looked up at him.
"I'm sorry Mr. Barkley, I just couldn't." She replied looking between
the brothers. "Your brother sacrificed everything to help us. I have to
help both him and you."
"Mary you just can't stay here, it's far to dangerous." Stated Jarrod
trying to reason with the young woman.
"Your hurt!" Replied Mary noticing the crude bandage on Jarrod's arm.
"My fathers a doctor, he can look at it for you."
"I'm fine, really it's just a scratch." Said Jarrod as he took Mary's
hand away from the bandage. "Now you must go back home an promise me this
time you'll stay there."
"But...." began Mary.
"Mary please." Said Jarrod as he held onto her arms.
Cole lay still and listened to the conversation-taking place just a few feet
from him. Opening his eyes he saw the dark silhouettes of four people. He
didn't know whom the two men talking to Mary were, but he could make out James
and the fact that his hands were tied. Slowly drawing his gun from his holster
Cole raised it up and pointed it at the back of the man talking to Mary.
Seeing movement behind Jarrod, Mary shouted and shoved him just as a gunshot
went off in the alley. Swinging around, Nick fired off three shots before Cole
had time to squeeze the trigger again. All three bullets found their mark as
Cole dropped his gun in the dirt and exhaled his last breath.
Mary stood staring at Cole as Jarrod picked himself up off the ground and
grabbed her arm. "Mary are you all right?"
"I don't think..." she began before falling.
Catching her in his arms, Jarrod eased her to the ground were he began to look
her over. A large red stain was spreading on her left side as she looked up at
Jarrod. "I'm sorry I got in the way... Mr. Barkley." She said reaching
up and gently caressing Jarrod's cheek.
"Let me get you to your father," said Jarrod as he placed his hands
underneath her to pick her up.
"No, it's ... to late for that." Replied Mary as she looked past
Jarrod and up into the starry night sky. "Don't you... see them?" She
asked pointing upward.
Nick and Jarrod both looked up at the star filled sky and then back down at
Mary. "They're beautiful." She said quietly as she continued to stare
up at the heavens. "Angels... real angels."
Nick looked skywards again as Jarrod continued to hold Mary, "I didn't...
think... they'd come... for me..." she whispered quietly as the light
faded from her eyes.
Reaching down Jarrod sadly closed her eyes before pulling Mary up against his
chest. "I tried to tell you it was to dangerous," he whispered into
her ear. "Why wouldn't you listen?"
Nick looked over at Jarrod and placed his hand on his brother’s arm,
"there's nothing we can do for her now. But we can still save Heath."
Jarrod laid Mary down gently and folder her arms across her stomach before
standing up and facing Nick. His eyes turned in to steel blue slits as he
rushed forward and grabbed James by the shirt and slammed him roughly up
against the wall. "You're going to help us get our brother out of that so
called jail or as God is my witness I'll kill you where you stand!"
* * * * * * * * *
*
"Move back boy!" Shouted John as he kept the
rifle pointed at Heath.
Heath slowly moved away from the bars and stood against the wall near the
window. Putting down the rifle John drew one of his handguns and trained it on
Heath as he unlocked the cell door. "Turn around and put your hands behind
you. You try anything and I'll put a bullet in you!" Shouted John as he
advanced towards Heath.
Shoving the gun in Heath's back John pressed him against the wall as he slipped
the handcuffs on Heath's wrists. Grabbing his upper arm John turned him around
and shoved him back against the wall.
Wincing in pain as his battered body took yet another jolt, Heath tried to catch
his breath and stand tall in front of the sheriff. "Well son it's been a
pleasure having you in my jail but I'm afraid our time is up," laughed
John as he looked into Heath's bruised face. Grabbing Heath by the arm John
forced him out of the cell and into the front office. Barely able to keep up
with the sheriff Heath tried his best to remain standing. Opening the front
door, John forced Heath out onto the sidewalk.
As the cool night air blew over the sweat on his face and chest, Heath
shivered.
"What's the matter boy, scared?" Exclaimed John as his laugh filled
the night air.
Heath turned around quickly as the sound of Mary's voice and then gunfire
filtered down the street.
"Mary!" Heath shouted as he took a step towards the street.
"Why don't you go and help her!" Shouted John as he pushed Heath off
the sidewalk.
The distance from the sidewalk to the road was only three feet but with his
hands fastened securely behind him Heath had no way to break his fall. Falling
head over heels, his right shoulder hit the ground first with a sickening thud
as his collarbone snapped. The blinding pain in his arm and shoulder stole all
the air he had in his lungs away as he lay in the dirt struggling to breath.
Slowly walking down the three steps in front of his office, John walked up to
Heath and looked down on him. "You look like a fish out a water boy!"
He laughed as he watched Heath struggle to suck in air. "Come on boy get
up!" He yelled as he bent over and grabbed Heath's arm and attempted to
haul him to his feet.
Heath's world was quickly fading from view as he struggled to breath, he felt
himself being lifted off the ground but was powerless to do anything about it.
Nothing worked, he couldn't move, he couldn't think and he couldn't breath.
Dropping Heath back in to the dirt John kicked him savagely in the stomach in
an attempt to make him cooperate. He was about to deliver another kick when he
heard the cocking of a gun behind him.
"That's enough sheriff," said Hiram Brown as he looked down the
barrel of his shotgun. "Drop your gun."
"Oh you don't want to do that Hiram," stated John coldly as he looked
down at Heath. "Your gonna force me to shoot this young fella." He
added pointing the gun at Heath's head.
"I don't think so sheriff," came the reply off to his left.
Cocking his head slightly, John saw the face of David Stenson looking down his
rifle at him.
"Drop it sheriff!" Stated Doc Chatman as he walked across the street
towards the sheriff holding a rifle.
Hearing voices down the street Nick looked towards the sheriff’s office and
noticed the sheriff standing over someone in the street. "Let him go
Jarrod," said Nick as he turned and placed a hand on his brothers
shoulder. "Something’s happening with the sheriff in front of the jail."
Very slowly Jarrod let go of James shirt and brought his emotions back under
control. Forcing James to sit down in the alley Nick tied his wrists and ankles
together so he wouldn't go anywhere while they checked out the situation with
the sheriff.
Keeping close to the buildings the brothers made their way closer to the
sheriff’s office. Finally catching a good look at the figure on the ground in
front of the sheriff, Nick took off running.
"Heath!" He shouted as he raced towards his downed brother.
"Ahhh come to watch him die?" Laughed John as he waved his gun over
Heath and looked up at Nick.
Seeing the sheriffs gun pointed at his brother, Nick stopped in the middle of
the road.
"Now that's a good boy," laughed the sheriff as he continued to wave
his gun over Heath.
"Your days of playing sheriff are over Crocker!" Spat David Stenson
as he took a step forward.
"Oh I doubt that Mr. Stenson, I've only just begun," he laughed as he
turned to look at the men now surrounding him. "I have so much more to
teach you, all of you."
As John turned his back on Nick, Nick drew and fired at the sheriff. As Nick's
gun went off so did those of the men surrounding the sheriff. John Crocker was
dead before he even hit the ground at Heath's feet. Only Heath was unaware of
the sheriff’s demise, he was off following a girl with long brown hair and eyes
as blue and as deep as the ocean.
It was the greenest grass he'd ever seen. The blades were thick, long and lush.
It was as soft as a feather bed as he lay looking up at the white fluffy clouds
floating by in the blue-sky overhead. Taking a deep breath he breathed in the
sweet smelling air as he let the sun warm his face and body. He felt so
comfortable here, so relaxed, so at ease. Hearing a woman laugh softly he
rolled over in the grass and looked for her.
The area around him was breath taking. Sitting up on his knees he looked around
in awe. He was in a large valley surrounded by lush green mountains topped with
brilliant white peaks. A waterfall cascaded down the face of the mountain
directly in front of him, it's top shrouded under the brightest rainbow he'd
ever seen. The water from the waterfall ran through a grove of magnificent Oak
trees and cut a clear blue line through the meadow he was in. The air around
him was as sweet and fragrant as a thousand rose gardens.
Hearing the gentle laugh once again he spotted a lovely young woman peeking out
from behind a large Oak tree. She wore a long lavender dress that shimmered in
the sun when she moved. Her long brown hair was swept back over her shoulders
and seemed to wave slightly in the gentle breeze as she stood smiling at him.
"Hello," he shouted as he stood up and waved at her. She waved back
before quickly hiding from his view behind a tree.
Intrigued by her beauty and the beauty of the valley he was in, Heath walked
through the meadow and up to the edge of the Oak forest. Hearing her gentle
laugh once again he walked under the canopy into the forest. The sunlight
shimmering down through the trees danced on the ground all around him as the
leaves moved back and forth in the gentle breeze.
Catching movement off to his right, Heath saw the tail end of the young woman's
dress dart around a tree. Following close behind her he listened to her
delightful laughter as she darted from tree to tree always one step ahead of
him. Hearing her laughter and playing the game of cat and mouse made him laugh
as well.
The sunlight filtering in through the canopy above kissed the top of his blonde
head and he chased the mysterious woman between the trees. Finally catching up
with her as she ran out from behind a tree in front of him, Heath recognized
her.
"Mary!" He exclaimed as she stood in front of him smiling.
"Hello Heath," she replied happily taking his hand as she watched him
return her smile.
Heath felt the warmth in Mary's touch and smiled even more. She was so vibrant
so alive. Her blue eyes had a light from within the likes of which he had never
seen. Her brown hair reflected in the shimmering sunlight coming through the
trees in much the same way as her dress. As the two walked hand in hand beneath
the trees Heath swore Mary's feet were hardly touching the ground. She seemed
to glide across the forest floor. Coming to the far edge of the forest Heath
could hear the roar from the waterfall just up ahead. Walking out from under
the canopy he watched as the water cascaded down the side of the mountain and
into a large pool at its base.
Mary smiled up at him and winked before pulling him along after her as she ran
up to the waters edge. Looking out over the pool of water, Heath thought its
deep blue color and clarity matched Mary's eyes to a tee. He watched as Mary
knelt down on her hands and knees and scooped some water up to drink.
"Try some Heath, it's the best water you've ever tasted."
Bending over and kneeling at the waters edge Heath stuck his hand in the water.
Instantly his hand tingled under the cool crisp water, the sensation wasn't
alarming but actually comforting. Bringing the water up to his mouth he drank
it in almost greedily. The water tasted sweeter than anything he'd ever had
before. As the water ran down inside him he could feel the same comforting
tingle he had on his hand. His insides seemed to warm as the water made it's
way down to his stomach.
"What is this place?" He asked looking up at Mary.
Lying back in the grass and looking up at the sky Mary said, "it's my home
now Heath, at least part of my home. And it's everything I dreamed it would
be."
"I don't understand Mary?" Came Heath's confused reply as he sat down
next to her.
"No I guess you wouldn't," she laughed as she sat up and took his
hand in her own. "This isn't your home Heath, you can only stay here a
short while. You have to go back."
"Go back where?" He asked as he looked into her sparkling blue eyes.
"Home, with your brothers." Mary answered gently caressing his cheek.
"I think they'd rather I stayed here," he said looking away from her
and out towards the mountains.
Turning his head back to face her Mary responded, "that's where you're
wrong Heath. They came looking for you, they want you to come home with them,
all of them."
"You're wrong Mary I destroyed what they believed in. I destroyed the
memory of their… our father. Now every time they see me they're reminded of
that betrayal. I can't hurt them anymore." He replied trying to make her
understand.
"Heath, you'd be hurting them more by staying away, they love you."
Answered Mary taking both his hands.
"They pity me more than anything, I can see it in their eyes."
“Heath Barkley! How could you think such a thing?" If only you'd seen your
brothers faces and heard their anguished cries you wouldn't think such a
thing." Stated Mary as she stood up in front of Heath.
"You don't understand Mary," replied Heath as he stood up and faced
her.
"I do Heath, I know how scared you are. You're afraid to let them inside,
your afraid to love them and to let them love you. Because everyone you've ever
loved has either died or left and you never want to feel that pain again."
Replied Mary as she grabbed his hand and held it tight.
"I can't? it's just to hard." Heath replied in a whisper.
"Heath it has to be hard, that's what makes it so rewarding. Heath can't
you see that a life without love is no life at all? Fight for what is right,
fight for what you want, and fight for love because without it you're not
really alive." Stated Mary before drawing him close and embarrassing him.
Heath held onto her until a gentle sweet smelling breeze blew across them and
Mary stepped back from him. "It's time for you to go back now Heath."
Mary said with a smile.
"You're not coming are you?" He asked as she smiled at him.
"No I can't go back this is my home now."
"I can't do it on my own Mary, I'm too tired." Heath said before
sitting down in the grass.
"Yes you can, just lay back and go to sleep." Replied Mary as she
knelt down next to him and pushed his shoulders back down into the grass.
"Remember I'll always be there to help you. Now go back to your brothers
they need you and you them." She added caressing his cheek.
Before closing his heavy eyelids, Heath looked up into her deep blue eyes one
more time. No longer were they the dull pools he saw in the jail cell, they
were alive and sparkling full of love and life. "Good bye Mary."
Stated Heath sleepily before drifting away.
"Good bye love, tell my Father I love him." Said Mary as Heath fell
asleep and disappeared from view.
"Don't you quit on me boy!" Hollered Nick as he
watched Heath's bruised chest quit rising and his battered body relax into the
bed. Pushing the doctor out of the way Nick grabbed Heath's swollen face and
turned it towards him. "Come on fight boy! I never figured you for a
quitter!"
Jarrod and Gene stood side by side at the end of the bed and watched with heavy
hearts as Nick tried desperately to bring Heath back. The pain and urgency in
Nick's voice tore through Jarrod's heart; he knew exactly what Heath's death
would do to Nick.
"Damit boy! I won't let you take the easy way out!" Shouted Nick as
he shook Heath.
"He's gone son," Said Doc Chatman as he put a hand on Nick's
shoulder.
Brushing the doctors hand aside Nick replied, "You're wrong! He just needs
a minute to rest is all!"
The darkness surrounded him like a lovers embrace as he floated along under
it's dark cloak. The deeper he sank into it's unknown depths the more at peace
he felt. Images from as far back as childhood started to swim through his head
as he continued to float deeper and deeper into oblivion. As his
mothers face came into view, he could smell her sweet fragrance and feel her
gentle touch on his body as he floated along. How he longed to be with her
again, to sit nestled up within her arms as he had when he was a child. She had
a way of making all the bad things people said and did to him melt away with
her touch. He could remember the feeling of her robe against his skin as they
sat in front of the fireplace while she read him a tale of some far off
adventure. He remembered the way her eyes sparkled in the firelight as she
read. She had a way of bringing a story to life, weather it was pirates
pillaging and looting on the high seas or a story about lands far away where
giants and men who were half horse and half man lived side by side.
Other images started to appear before him too, friends who were killed in the
war, old ranch hands he'd worked with, even friends he hadn't seen since
childhood. All seemed happy and content as they continued to float in and out
of his view. Before long the images stopped as quickly as they had begun and he
was once again alone in total darkness. But this time the darkness was not
quite as comforting as it had been just moments before. There was a slight
turbulence in the air around him, instead of floating gently his body now
rocked back and forth as if in choppy water. With each passing moment the
turbulence grew and grew until his body felt as though it was being tossed from
wave top to wave top far out in the ocean. Fearing that at any moment he would
plunge under the water and drown Heath struggled to stay afloat. Taking a deep
breath he tried to open his eyes, pain invaded his world as he opened his one
good eye and stared blurrily up into the face of his brother.
"That's it Heath, breathe," stated Nick as he watched his newest
brother take a breath. Relief washed over him as he watched Heath struggle to
come back. A small blue slit greeted him as he pushed the sweat soaked hair
back from Heath's forehead. "Welcome back Heath," said Nick as he
watched the bloodshot blue eye look up at him.
Trying to focus on the image bending over him, Heath tried to take a deep
breath to clear his head. Pain as sharp as a hundred knives shot through his
chest and ribs making it impossible to breath. Searching for the face just out
of focus Heath desperately tried to get air into his lungs. If only he could
get some help, the dark curtain was closing in fast and he was sure this time
he'd drown under it.
"Calm down Heath!" Urged Nick as he tried not to let his emotions get
away from him. "Breath slowly boy!"
A familiar voice forced it's way trough the dark curtain and forced him to
fight back. He found that by closing his eye and focusing on his breathing he
could manage a few small breaths without to much pain. Gaining some control
over his breathing he once again opened his eye to look around.
Stepping aside so the doctor could look at Heath, Nick didn't move to far away.
Feeling a hand on his shoulder he turned his head and looked into his older
brothers eyes. "I almost lost him Jarrod," said Nick quietly as he
looked back down on Heath.
"But we didn't Nick," replied Jarrod as he strengthened his grip on
Nick's shoulder.
"Hello son, do you remember me? Don't try and talk just blink once for yes
now." Said Doc Chatman as he bent down over the bed to examine Heath.
"Good," replied the doctor as Heath blinked at him. "I need to
check the wounds on your face Heath. I've already wrapped your ribs and set
your
collarbone back in place. I'm afraid you won't be using that arm for quite a
while it was a nasty break. Now just lay back and relax, I'll be as gentle as I
can."
Heath tried to relax as the doctor removed the bandages from his eye and chin
and began poking around. His mouth was dry and tasted like vomit, dirt, and
blood all mixed together. He really wanted a glass of water, trouble was he
just didn't have the energy to ask for one.
Nick, Jarrod, and Eugene looked on as the doctor cleaned Heath's wounds and
re-bandaged them. Each one silently imagined the horrors their new brother must
have faced alone. Eugene looked on and doubted weather or not he would
have even survived such harsh treatment. The will Heath possessed to have
survived such a beating warmed Gene's heart. Jarrod looked on and marveled at
how far his new brother would go to put someone else's well being above his
own. Heath didn't have to help these people but he risked everything in order
to do so. Jarrod's heart grew with pride as he looked down on his little
brother. Nick looked down on Heath and saw a future that could slip away form
him at any moment. He'd ignored that possible future for months and now when he
was finally starting to embrace it, it was slowly being torn away from him.
There lying before him was everything he'd ever wanted in a brother. Someone
who shared the same passion for ranching and everything that went with it as
he. Someone who was more at home out on the range than anywhere else in the
world. A brother whose heart and sole went into everything he did and every
relationship he had.
Turning away from his brothers, Nick walked over to the window and looked out
into the darkness. "I should have been there for him!" His mind
shouted as he stared out into the blackness. "I pushed him into this, it's
my fault!"
Looking over and seeing Nick hanging his head Jarrod walked over to him.
"He'll pull through this Nick, he's strong."
"I should have been there for him," answered Nick quietly as he
continued to stare out the window.
"You're here for him now and that's what matters." Replied Jarrod.
Turning to face Jarrod Nick replied. "You don't understand Jarrod, I
forced him into this. I pushed him to prove himself to us... to me."
Seeing the anguish in Nick's eyes, Jarrod realized he was blaming himself for
what happened to Heath. "This wasn't your fault Nick. Heath wasn't trying
to prove himself to anyone. He saw someone who needed help and he acted on it.
No one forced him to Nick, that's just the type of man he is. You would have
acted the same given that situation because you're a Barkley just like
him."
Looking over at Heath's now resting form, Nick couldn't shake the feeling that
he'd failed him. How was he ever going to repair the riff he'd created between
them? "I'm not sure how I'm ever going to make it all up to him,"
Nick said more to himself than to Jarrod.
"Nick I don't think Heath expects that or wants that from you. He needs a
brother Nick, you. He needs your respect, your guidance, and most of all your
approval. That's all he's ever wanted." Answered Jarrod as he placed a
comforting hand on Nick's shoulder.
Doc Chatman stood up as he finished with Heath's bandages and walked over to
where Nick and Jarrod stood talking.
"How's he doing?" Questioned Nick as his eyes never left Heath's
battered features.
"I'm not going to lie to you boys," started the doctor as he looked
between the brothers. "Your brothers not out of the woods yet. Frankly I'm
surprised he's come this far. The sheriff and his hence men didn't show your
brother any mercy."
"Tell us what needs to be done Doc." Stated Eugene.
"Right now we just need to keep him comfortable and let him rest. He needs
to regain some of his strength back. I'm a little worried about his abdomen,
it's awfully rigid. With the beatings he took I'm afraid there may be some
internal bleeding. If his abdomen gets much worse I'm afraid I'll be forced to
operate." Replied the doctor as he watched the brothers exchange worried
glances.
"Doc what about his shoulder?" Asked Jarrod.
"It was a pretty nasty break, but he's young. I think with rest and
rehabilitation he should regain full use of his arm again. He's going to need
to take it slow for a long time. Those ribs won't heal over night either. I'm a
little concerned about his left eye though. He did take repeated beatings to
that side of his head. I'm hoping there's no permanent damage, we'll know more
once the swelling goes down."
"Thanks Doc, I know my brother would appreciate everything you've done for
him." Stated Jarrod as he looked down at Heath.
"Well gentlemen you're more than welcome to stay here with your brother
but if you'd rather be more comfortable Hiram has offered up his best rooms to
you free of charge. He owns the Inn just down the street. I'm afraid I must
tend to my family downstairs so if you'll excuse me I'll be up to check on your
brother later." Stated the doctor before he turned to leave the room.
"Mr. Chatman, thanks again for everything you've done. Please tell your
family were sorry we couldn't save your daughter. She was a lovely woman and
you should be very proud of her." Stated Jarrod as he moved forward to
shake the doc's hand.
"Thank you Mr. Barkley, I am." Replied the doctor as a tear rolled
down his face.
The brothers watched as the doctor left and closed the door behind him.
"I'm not going any where," said Nick as he walked over and sat in the
chair next to Heath's bed. "Why don't you two go over to the hotel and get
some sleep."
"I think I'd rather stay here," said Eugene as he walked over and sat
down gently at the end of Heath's bed.
"Well that settles it, we'll all stay here and keep an eye on Heath."
Replied Jarrod as he grabbed the chair by the door and brought it up along side
the bed.
Nick looked over at his brothers for a moment before returning his attention to
Heath. He watched as Heath breathed in and out slowly through his swollen
mouth. His face was so swollen and dirty it was almost hard to remember the
handsome young man who'd ridden away from the ranch such a short time ago. He
watched as the white bandages wrapping Heath's stomach and chest moved up and
down quietly. There wasn't a spot on the boy not covered with some type of
bruise or cut. The fury he'd felt just hours before out on the street as he
faced the sheriff once again began building inside him. He knew the man
responsible for his brothers suffering was dead but that fact didn't ease his
pain. He'd deserved to suffer more, he hadn't really paid for his crimes
against the town or Heath.
Standing to stretch his stiff muscles, Nick looked over at his sleeping
brothers. Jarrod lay asleep in a chair with his legs propped up on the side of
Heath's bed. Gene had taken the extra quilt off the bed and was now sleeping
quietly curled up on the floor near Jarrod's chair. Walking over to the window
as he tried to work out the kinks in his legs, he watched as the first few rays
of the coming day kissed the sky. As he looked down the street he noticed some
men digging what appeared to be a hole next to the body of the sheriff. After
the unknown men finished the hole they dumped the body of the sheriff inside
and began filling it back up. Before he had a chance to wonder why they were
burying the sheriff where they were he heard a slight moan come from Heaths
bed.
They were after him. With his hands tied behind his back he wasn't able to move
as quickly and they were gaining ground, fast. His vision was blurred by sweat
he couldn't wipe away as he continued to run for his life. Their taunts and
threats were getting closer and closer, he could hear their footsteps as they
ran behind him. Fear gripped his gut as a hand brushed against his back
followed by more taunting and laughter. Darting left he tried to shake them but
they continued, he was certain at any moment hands would close around him
hauling him to the ground.
Nick raced back to his brother's side and watched as Heath slowly tossed and
turned in his sleep. Sweat beaded up on his face and neck as he continued to
fight some unseen demon. Reaching out and gently shaking his good shoulder Nick
tried to wake him. "Heath... Heath... come on now boy wake up it's only a
dream."
Feeling a hand on his shoulder Heath tried to turn away but ended up falling.
As he lay in the dirt awaiting the beating he knew would come he tried to curl
up into a ball.
As Heath continued to battle his demons, Nick grew more and more
concerned. "Heath, ya gotta lay
still boy." He said as he grabbed a cloth from the side table and dipped
it in the water basin. Using the cool cloth Nick dabbed at the sweat on Heath's
face and chest.
Instead of the hurtful kicks and punches he was prepared for, Heath felt a more
gentle, soothing touch. Turning his head he opened his eye and tried to focus
on the face looming above his own.
"That's it, take it easy," Nick said quietly as Heath calmed down.
Taking the cloth and dipping it in the water again he was greeted by a
questioning blue eye as he turned his attention back to Heath. "It's about
time you woke up," stated Nick with a smile.
Heath recognized the voice that went with the blurry face right away. Only
trouble was he'd never heard Nick speak so quietly in all his five short months
on the ranch. He let his body relax as the nightmare quickly faded from memory.
Finally able to focus on Nick's face, Heath noticed how ragged and tired he
looked. "Yoouuu... OOOK?" He managed hoarsely as he watched Nick
frown.
"Me? Damit boy it's you lying there in that bed not me!" Shouted
Nick, he immediately regretted yelling at Heath as he watched the boy flinch at
his harsh words. "Sorry Heath it's just you I'm worried about." He
said as he gently wiped his brothers sweaty brow.
"I'm... fine...Nick," said Heath slowly as he tried to gather enough
strength to make it sound somewhat convincing.
Nick had to laugh, "you're any thing but fine boy. I don't think you've
seen yerself in a mirror lately but I can tell ya you ain't winnin no beauty
contest."
Heath tried to smile but the pain and swelling around his mouth made it
extremely difficult.
Watching his brother try and wet his swollen lips Nick figured he must be
thirsty. "Heath can I get you some water?" He asked pouring a glass
from the pitcher next to the water basin.
"Thanks... Nick," replied Heath quietly.
Putting his hand behind Heath's head he very gently tried to tilt it up enough
for him to drink. Most of the water ran down the sides of Heath's mouth but
what eventually made it way into his mouth and down his throat felt wonderful.
After going through a glass and a half of water he signaled that he'd had
enough. Lying back against the pillows Heath tried to quell the rising nausea
he was beginning to feel. Closing his eye he tried to will his stomach to cooperate
but the churning and upheaval continued. Trying to push himself up with his
left arm he tried to get out of the bed before he threw up all over himself.
"Just where do you think you're going?" Questioned Nick as he pushed
Heath easily back down onto the bed. As Nick looked down at him he could easily
tell what was wrong with the boy, he was turning green right before his eyes.
Grabbing the basin of water Nick dumped it out on the floor and placed it next
to Heath. Gently turning him slightly on to his left, Nick held the basin under
Heath's mouth as he expelled the contents of his stomach. Water mixed with
blood poured out of Heath's mouth as Nick helped hold him steady.
Lying back against his pillows, Heath closed his eye and tried to regulate his
breathing. His chest and stomach ached terribly, and his head pounded with each
shallow breath he took. Feeling the cool cloth on his forehead once again he
opened his eye and looked up at Nick who was now joined by Jarrod and Eugene.
Jarrod held a cloth under Heath's nose and wiped away the blood, which ran
freely from his broken nose once again. Looking up once at each of his brothers
he closed his eye and sank down into sleep with a comforting feeling of
security.
The morning passed by slowly as the brothers kept a very watchful eye on Heath
who thankfully slept away most of the morning. When he was awake Nick forced
him to drink small amounts of water and eat warm broth that one of Doc
Chatman's wives had graciously brought upstairs for them. Doc Chatman had been
in and out all morning checking on Heath and noted that the swelling in his
abdomen and face seemed to be going down some. The tenderness of his abdomen
still worried the doctor but not quite as much as it had the night before. Nick
still thought Heath was just as swollen and discolored as the previous evening,
but if the doctor thought he looked better then he was happy.
Eugene left for Silver Springs in the early afternoon as Jarrod forced Nick
into getting some much-needed rest. He sat with Heath and watched as Nick slept
in a chair next to Heath's bed with a quilt pulled up around him. Feeling the
bed move a little, Jarrod was happy to see Heath looking up at him as he turned
around. "Good afternoon brother," stated Jarrod with a grin.
"Can I get you anything?"
Heath looked up sleepily and tried to focus in on Jarrod's face, "just
some... water." He answered hoarsely.
"Slow and easy Heath," stated Jarrod as he gently raised Heath's head
and gave him a drink of water.
Laying his head back down he looked around for Nick and Gene. Seeing Nick
asleep in the chair made him smile. "You finally... got... him to...
rest." He stated as he looked up at Jarrod.
"That I did little brother, but it certainly wasn't easy." Laughed
Jarrod. "You see Heath our brother is about as stubborn as they come, I
never figured on meeting anyone as stubborn as Nick Barkley until I met you. I
mean that as a compliment Heath believe me."
Heath saw the humor in Jarrod's eyes and reached up to pat him on the shoulder
with a very shaky left hand. "I think... he... he gets it... from
you," Heath said as he tried to smile.
Jarrod laughed and shook his fist at Heath. "You just wait until you're
better little brother."
Looking back over at a sleeping Nick, Heath asked Jarrod a question.
"Why'd... he come?... Figured he'd... be happier... with me... gone."
Said Heath slowly.
"I could answer that for you Heath but I'm not going to. That's a
conversation that's best left between you and he. But I will say this Heath,
Nick's realized his mistake in all of this and he's trying to correct it. All I
ask is for you to give him another chance." Answered Jarrod.
"You're my... brothers Jarrod... you don't have... to ask... for an
other... chance." Replied Heath as he looked up at his older brother with
love.
"Remember that goes both ways Heath," said Jarrod as he put his hand
on the top of Heath's head.
Noticing the bandage on Jarrod's arm Heath reached up to touch it.
"What... happened?" He asked in a very concerned voice.
"It's nothing, just a scratch. Doesn't even hurt at all." Replied
Jarrod as he tried to reassure Heath.
"Where's... Gene?" Asked Heath as he looked around the room, concern
etched on his swollen face.
"Gene volunteered to ride on into Silver Springs to get the sheriff and
send a telegram to Mother and Audra. He left a little while ago." Said
Jarrod.
As Jarrod mentioned the word sheriff a picture of John Crocker formed in
Heath's mind. He'd go after him, he had to warn Jarrod and Nick. John and his
men would kill Gene if he tried to leave the town. Struggling to sit up and
swing his legs over the edge of the bed Heath brushed Jarrod's arm aside as he
tried to restrain him.
"Heath, Heath calm down. What's the matter?" Asked Jarrod as he tried
to restrain him.
Hearing the commotion Nick awoke and went straight over to Heath's bed. Pushing
him back down on the bed Nick forced Heath to look at him. "What's the
matter with you boy? You tryin to undo all the doctors handiwork?" As Nick
looked into Heath's eyes he saw something he'd never seen before, fear.
"They'll... kill him..." He said, his strength fading fast.
"Kill who? What are you babbling about?" Asked Nick as he looked from
Heath up to Jarrod.
"Heath are you talking about Gene?" Asked Jarrod as he figured out
the reason for Heath's sudden outburst.
Turning to face his older brother Heath shook his head yes, "the....
sheriff... the sheriff... will... kill...him..." He answered as the room
started to spin.
"Heath the sheriff's dead." Replied Jarrod as he watched Heath's eye
struggle to remain open.
"Dead?..." Questioned Heath as he began to loose the battle with
consciousness.
"I killed him Heath," stated Nick as Heath's eye closed.
"Dead... sheriff... gotta... tell... Mary..." were Heath's last words
before he drifted off.
"Heath, Heath." Said Nick as he shook his brother gently.
"He's exhausted Nick, lets let him sleep." Stated Jarrod as he stood
up and pulled the blanket over Heath's chest.
Sitting down in one of the rooms' chairs Nick looked over at Jarrod. "He
didn't know, he didn't know about the sheriff."
"I think that's why he was so upset, he was worried about Gene our there
alone against the sheriff and his men." Answered Jarrod.
"He was scared Jarrod, but not for himself, for Gene. How could I have
been so wrong all these months?" Questioned Nick as he looked over at the
sleeping form of his newest brother.
"Nick what's done is done, there's no use dwelling in the past. You're
here for him now and that's what matters most. Just be his brother Nick, that's
all he's ever wanted." Replied Jarrod.
"He was mumbling something about Mary, you don't suppose he knew her do
you?" Questioned Nick as he sat down.
"She did mention that her father tended to Heath once, she could have been
with him." Answered Jarrod as he remembered back to their meeting just
outside of town.
"How do we tell him, about her I mean?" Asked Nick as he ran his hand
through his hair.
"I don't think we should just yet, he's awfully weak right now."
Replied Jarrod as he looked up at Nick. "I think he's been through enough
for while."
Shaking his head in agreement Nick stood up and crossed over to the door.
"I'll be back, keep an eye on him, OK?"
Jarrod saw the concern etched on Nick's tired face and heard it in his voice.
"I'll be right by his side Nick."
Walking out into the late afternoon sun, Nick looked around the street and
noticed just how much the town had changed. People were mingling about and
talking freely on the streets, windows were open and curtains fluttered in the
afternoon breeze all over town. He hadn't realized before there were so many
people living here. Walking down the street he made his way over to the jail.
Stopping in front of the freshly dug earth he stopped to reflect on the past
days events.
"It's better than he deserved," stated Hiram Brown as he walked up
along side Nick.
Startled out of his thoughts, Nick looked over at the little man. "Better
than who deserved?" Questioned Nick.
"The sheriff, he always told us how far above us he was. Now he's where
he's always belonged, beneath us." Stated Hiram as he pointed to the mound
of earth.
Both men stood and stared at the earth for a moment until Hiram turned to face
Nick, "I want to thank you Mr. Barkley, for everything." He stated as
he held out his hand. "Not many people would have acted the way you and
your brothers did, especially knowing what we are."
"From what I can see," stated Nick as he shook Hiram's hand and
looked around, "you're hard working honest people."
Hiram smiled as he vigorously shook Nick's hand. "How's Heath?" He
questioned, finally letting go.
"He's holdin his own right now." Replied Nick as he looked down the
street in the direction of the doctor's house.
"I'm sorry we didn't help him sooner," said Hiram as he looked down
at his feet.
Looking back at Hiram, Nick noticed the bruises that were still healing on his
face. "I'm sure you did everything you could." Stated Nick, placing a
hand on Hiram's shoulder.
"You're a lot like him, I bet your mama's real proud of you all." Stated
Hiram, as he looked Nick sincerely in the eyes.
Nick smiled as he thought about his mother, his family. That family picture now
contained one more person, Heath. "Thank you Hiram."
Continued…