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.
Part 19
Dinner was winding down and Victoria listened as easygoing banter filled the
air among the young people gathered around the table. Jarrod, Nick, Audra,
Jessie, and Anna seemed to be enjoying one another’s company immensely. But one
voice was missing and it pained her to see who’s it was. She watched as Heath
pushed the food around on his plate trying to give off the appearance that he’d
actually managed to eat some of it. His face was pale and his shoulders slumped
as he sat quietly trying hard not to be noticed. As dinner ended she watched
and listened as he excused himself saying he had some work to finish up out in
the barn. She took in the lingering looks the rest of the family and Anna gave
him once his back was turned. Anna even took a few steps towards his fleeting
form but stopped as the door closed behind him.
Jessie noticed the hurt look on Anna’s face as she turned back towards the
parlor to join the rest of the family. Seeing the hurt look in her eyes was too
much for him and he ran up the stairs to his room. As Victoria watched he scene
unfold around her, her motherly instincts took over and she climbed the stairs
and went to Jessie’s room. Standing in front of his closed door she could hear
his muffled sobs. Knocking lightly she called out softly to him, "Jessie
may I come in?"
Straining to hear anything through the oak door she just faintly made out the
sounds of little feet scampering across the bare floor. After a moment or two
she heard his small voice call out to her. "You can come in now."
As she entered his room she found him seated on his bed with a book in his lap.
By the look on his face she seriously doubted that he had been reading. His
eyes were red and puffy and the book in his lap was upside down. Sitting down
on the bed next to him she reached out and grasped his hand.
"Audra tells me you two had quite a time at the orphanage this
morning," she began trying to lighten his mood.
"Yes Ma’am," he replied more out of courtesy than anything else.
Victoria flinched a little at his polite reply; she too was taken at how alike
Jessie and Heath’s mannerisms really were. Here was this small boy acting
almost exactly as Heath would given the same situation. "Jessie, Audra
mentioned that you left after lunch to help Heath with the house. How are
things coming along? I haven’t been out there since you and Nick helped Heath
stake out the ground work." She stated, trying to draw him out of his
protective shell.
"It’s coming along OK, I guess," Jessie answered half-heartedly. He
really wished Victoria would leave; he wasn’t in the mood to entertain. He had
too much all ready on his mind and didn’t feel like talking to anyone. He was
more worried than anything, after his talk with Heath he was hoping Heath’s
spirits would pick up. That he would see he wasn’t to blame for what happened
to Anna, no matter what those bad men said. He also couldn’t understand why
Heath thought he was a bad person, he really didn’t understand what being a
bastard meant, but one thing was for sure he was convinced Heath wasn’t spawned
from the devil.
Victoria watched as Jessie played with the buttons on his cuff and avoided
looking directly at her as he answered. "Another one of Heath’s
tricks," she thought as she watched him. Jessie usually wasn’t this
evasive, that was unless something was really troubling him. "Jessie did
something happen with Heath today?"
Looking up he saw the concern on Victoria’s face, he knew he couldn’t lie to
her but he didn’t know how to tell her how he felt, or how scared he really was.
"No, nothing really." He replied trying his best to sound convincing
hoping that she would just leave it alone.
Victoria sighed a little at his answer; this was going to take more doing than
she initially thought. “Jessie I was hoping you might be able to tell me why
Heath was so quiet at dinner tonight.” She offered up hoping to get him to open
up.
Jessie’s heart sank a little as he continued to watch the worried expression on
her face. He knew she was just trying to help Heath but he still didn’t know
how to explain things to her when he himself didn’t really understand them.
“Sorry Ma’am, I can’t,” he answered as he looked down at the book in his lap
and righted it. He was fighting to hold back the tears that were threatening to
come as he thought back to the words Heath used to describe himself. As he
thought back to that afternoon a single tear made it’s way down his cheek
unnoticed.
It didn’t go unnoticed by Victoria however, “Jessie you know you can tell me
anything, don’t you?” She questioned as her hand caressed his cheek.
“I don’t know how to fix it,” he said quietly as he sat in defeat.
“Fix what?” Victoria responded trying to draw more out of him.
“His heart,” Jessie answered as the tears began in earnest. He felt ashamed at
the lack of control he had over his emotions but his mother always told him he
had a big heart. She said that showing that heart was not a sign of weakness
but of strength, and he should be proud of his caring nature. But right now he
didn’t feel that way, he was upset with himself for possibly hurting the lovely
lady sitting on the bed next to him.
Victoria put her arm around Jessie and drew him up close to her, running a hand
through his hair she tried to comfort him. “It’s all right Jessie, I can help.
This isn’t something you should face by yourself.”
He knew deep down Victoria was right but that knowledge didn’t bring him any
comfort. He didn’t want to burden her with the pain he was feeling, but he
didn’t see any other way out. “I tried to tell him those men were wrong.” He
choked out quietly. “That he didn’t come from the devil.”
“Jessie where ever did you hear that?” Questioned Victoria as she held him even
tighter.
“Heath said that’s what it meant to be a bastard, but he’s not!” Jessie stated
as the same fire he’d felt out with Heath started to once again build within
him. “He didn’t come from the devil, he didn’t!” He added forcefully as he sat
up and looked straight into Victoria’s eyes. “I just know he didn’t!”
Victoria’s heart saddened as she realized the reason for Heath’s sullenness.
“Your right Jessie, he didn’t.” She stated as she searched for a way she could
help Heath.
“It isn’t his fault, what happened to Anna and all.” Jessie stated confidently
as he wiped his runny nose on his shirt. “How come he thinks it is?”
“He’s heard it all his life and I think it’s hard for him to think or feel
otherwise. But we can help him change all that Jessie, what’d ya say? Are you
up for a challenge?” Stated Victoria as she held his hand.
“I’ll do anything, anything.” Jessie stated exuberantly. “I just want his heart
to heal.”
Part 20
He sat facing the window and watched as the moon slowly edged its way down
towards the horizon. Sleep had eluded him again tonight as both his mind and
body just wouldn’t let him rest. Sitting up had actually taken some of the
pressure off his chest as he continued to struggle with his broken rib. But
unfortunately sitting in the chair did nothing for the questions and guilt
running around in his head.
Slowly easing his tired body out of the chair he went about getting into his
work clothes. Starting the day bright and early before everyone else was
something he normally enjoyed. But today it brought him only more pain and
worry. Lately his own loneliness overwhelmed him. Isolation and loneliness were
bitter things, and their strong grip nearly choked him at times. It was not
good to be alone. It hurt to be alone. The loneliness was like a large gaping
wound. His very soul seemed to seep out, leaving a pallor of extreme unhappiness.
But if he allowed Anna back in, back in to ease that loneliness and fill the
wound he would only bring her more pain. With that thought still whirling
around in his head he made his way down the back stairs and through the kitchen
as he headed of towards the barn.
As the next few days drifted by and faded into the background his rib started
to heal but the emptiness inside of him only grew larger and more intense. He
excused himself from most of the families activities and mainly kept to
himself. Nick had confronted him several times but each time he’d managed to
fend him off. But now as he packed for the cabin his spirits couldn’t have been
any lower. No matter what excuse he tried to give Victoria she wouldn’t hear of
him not attending the family outing. He knew once she had her mind set
especially where the family was concerned she wouldn’t budge.
Going up to the cabin had always been something he enjoyed. The quiet times
he’d spent there in the past had helped him form a special bond with each
member of the family. This time however he wasn’t looking forward to the trip,
Victoria had insisted that Anna join them. To hear her infectious laughter, to
watch her eyes sparkle and her nose wrinkle up as she smiled, to feel her
gentle touch, her loving embrace would simply be to much for him. His heart
broke in two at the thought of losing her but that paled in comparison to the
crushing weight he felt knowing just by being with her he had caused her harm
and would probably continue to cause it. It would be better to let her go than
to see her in pain.
Jessie was in extremely high spirits as the party rode along in the bright
morning sunshine. He kept racing from the front of the group to the back and
then back to the front again talking all the while.
“Jessie!” Shouted an irritated Nick. “Your gonna tire that horse out and we’ve
still got a long way to go!”
Audra giggled as Jessie smiled at Nick and raced up next to Jarrod. Hearing his
sisters laugh Nick turned in his saddle and shot her a scowl before continuing
on.
As they neared the cabin the smell of pine assaulted Jessie’s nose. Jarrod
smiled as he watched Jessie inhale deeply as he lifted his face towards the
sky.
“It sure does smell good up here,” stated Jessie as he took another deep
breath.
“That it does my boy, clean mountain air, there’s nothing else quite like it.”
Boasted Jarrod as he rode alongside Jessie.
“How much further is it?” Jessie questioned, as he looked further down the
trail and noticed all the pine trees.
“Well once we make our way through that grove of trees up ahead, the cabins
only another half hour or so.” Answered Jarrod as he pointed the trees out to
Jessie.
As Jessie looked at the trees lining the side of the hill a chill ran through
him, Hank his mind shouted. Hank and his men had kept him captive in a cabin
surrounded by pine trees. Not realizing that he had stopped moving, Jessie
jumped as he heard Nick shout.
“First we can’t get you to slow down, now we can’t get you movin’,” Shouted
Nick as he came up behind Jessie.
“Sorry Nick,” Jessie replied quietly before giving Buck a kick to get him
going.
Nick watched as Jessie caught up to Jarrod, but something bothered him in the
way Jessie looked. Was that fear Nick saw in his eyes? He hadn’t seen that look
in his eyes since Hank was killed. He’d have to have a talk with the boy when
they reached the cabin. But for now he had enough to worry about with Heath.
How could he get it through his brother’s thick skull that he and Anna were
meant for one another.
Part 21
It stood tall and proud across the meadow from him, it’s back snuggled
amongst the pine trees while it’s front looked ready to take on anything. His
mind relaxed a little as he realized this cabin looked nothing like the one
Hank had held him captive in for all those months. This cabin was at least four
times as big as Hank’s had been, and everything was so well maintained. The
windows weren’t broken, there were no holes in the roof, and it even had a
porch that seemed to wrap around the entire cabin. He wasn’t sure but he
thought he could even see a swing rocking on the porch in the breeze. There
were lots of windows across the front of the cabin and even three windows
coming out of the roof. They reminded Jessie of the letter A, each of the
windows had a roof above them that made the windows look like giant A’s. There
was another window off to the right of the cabin and a chimney on the left
side. There were four steps leading up the front porch to a large wooden door.
The door was set in the middle of the cabin with two sets of windows off to
each side.
Taking a moment to absorb his surroundings Jessie stopped Buck as he took in
the spectacular view. As his eyes wandered around the meadow he noticed a large
barn set off to the right of the cabin. It was almost as big as the one the
Barkley’s had on their ranch. This one wasn’t red like the one back home
instead it was made out of the same logs as the house. Off to the left of the
house the land slopped downward away from the house and he could just make out
splashes of blue through the trees.
“Best fishing hole around these parts,” stated Nick confidently as he rode up
alongside Jessie. “There’s trout in there the size of your arm,” he added with
a large grin.
Jessie looked up at Nick and snickered, did Nick really think he’d fall for
that line, “trout as big as your arm?”
“I’m telling you the truth, boy!” Nick yelled as Jessie started to giggle.
“Bright and early tomorrow morning you and I are going fishing! And I’m going
to prove to you just how big those fish really are!” He added before urging
Coco onward.
Jessie laughed even harder as Nick continued to talk to himself as he rode on
ahead. Turning around in his saddle he noticed Heath riding alongside Anna. His
heart leapt with joy at the smiles on both of their faces. He’d been so worried
about Heath lately; he hadn’t seen him look this bad since Hank had taken him
captive. But now to see that goofy grin once again on his face made Mrs.
Barkley’s plan almost seem possible.
The smile Anna wore was one he surely wasn’t soon to forget. He watched as she
took in the scenery around them. Her green eyes sparkled as the gentle breeze
blew stray stands of her hair across her face. “Heath it’s beautiful,” she
stated quietly as her eyes roamed around the meadow.
Without even consciously realizing it he reached over and took Anna’s hand in
his own. “It’s nothing compared to you Anna,” he stated quietly while squeezing
her hand.
Anna looked over and saw the sincerity she heard in his voice reflected in his
eyes. She in turn squeezed his hand and continued looking around the site.
“It’s so big, when Mrs. Barkley asked me to come along to the family’s cabin in
the mountains I never expected it to be so large.”
“Surely you must have realized by now the Barkley’s never do anything on a
small scale,” kidded Heath as he threw her a lopsided grin.
“Heath Barkley!” Exclaimed Anna as she laughed along with him.
As they finally reached the barn Heath jumped off of Charger and helped Anna
down from her mount. His slight intake of air as he helped her down didn’t go
unnoticed by her; she knew his rib hadn’t completely healed. Hopefully some
time away from the ranch and all those chores would do him some good.
“Anna! Heath!” Jessie shouted as he raced over to them. “Isn’t it grand!” He
added as he grabbed her hand with one hand and Heaths with the other. “Come on
let’s check out the inside!”
Anna and Heath both smiled at one another before letting them selves be led
towards the cabin by a very enthusiastic Jessie. As they walked up the porch
stairs, Jessie looked at the large pine door open in front of them. Slowly
walking inside he was greeted by a grand staircase carved out of the same pine
logs as the walls of the cabin. Looking over to his left his jaw hit the floor,
instead of the grimy surroundings he remembered from Hank’s cabin, the sun
shown down on a magnificent fireplace made of fieldstone. The rooms ceiling
went all the way up to the roof, and the rafters were actual pine logs. Looking
towards the back of the great room he could see where the stairs ended and a
small landing with a wooden railing led to a loft. The great room’s chairs and
couches all appeared to have been cut from pine logs also. Their arms and legs
were sanded smooth and they had nice comfortable leather cushions with lots of
pillows adorning the couches.
Draping his arm over Jessie’s shoulder, Heath bent down and quietly spoke into
his ear. “You keep your mouth hanging open like that and I’m almost positive
you’ll catch a fly or two.”
Closing his mouth he shot his friend a smile as he turned to face Anna, “Isn’t
it the best cabin you’ve ever seen?” He stated more than questioned as he
turned back to the great room.
“It certainly is breath taking,” replied Anna as she reached for Heath’s hand.
“Now come on you two, you’ve only seen one room. There’s so much more left to
show you.” Stated Audra as she walked out from under the loft. “Heath will you
show Jessie the upstairs? I want to show Anna where we’ll be staying.” Asked
Audra as she approached the three some.
As Audra led Anna away, Heath and Jessie made their way up the stairs. Looking
out over the railing Jessie took in the view of the great room from above.
“I’ve never seen a room that went all the way up to the roof.” Stated Jessie as
he turned to face Heath.
“Wait until you see the view from the loft,” Heath replied as he continued on
up the stairs.
Turning left as he reached the top of the stairs Jessie walked into the loft
area and stood looking out over the railing down into the great room. “Heath
can I sleep in here tonight?” He asked as he leaned a little further over the
railing.
“Only if you promise to stay off the railing.” Replied Heath as he grabbed
Jessie’s overall straps and lifted him away from the railing.
“I promise!” Shouted Jessie as he threw his arms around Heath. “Would you stay
here with me?” He asked innocently as he looked up at his friend.
How could Heath refuse the pleading look in the little boy’s eyes, “Sure I’ll
stay up here with you. At least that way I won’t have to listen to Nick’s
snoring.” He added ruffling Jessie’s hair.
As if on queue Nick and Jarrod entered through the front door, “Nick! Hey
Nick!” Shouted Jessie as he waved his hands in the air.
“There you are,” replied Nick as he pointed up at Jessie. “You do know you have
a horse outside that needs tending too.” He stated, placing his hands on his
hips.
“Heath I forgot about Buck! I’ll be right back,” replied Jessie before he raced
down the stairs. “Thanks Nick!” He shouted as he ran past.
Jarrod just smiled as he held the door open for the whirlwind that masqueraded
as a little boy. “Seems I can remember a time someone else used to charge down
those very same stairs.” He stated as he looked over at Nick.
“Now don’t go making this about me!” Snapped Nick as he turned and headed off
into the great room.
“I wouldn’t dream of it Nick my boy,” replied Jarrod as he closed the front
door and followed his younger brother.
Part 22
After watching Jessie run down the stairs and out the door past Nick and
Jarrod, Heath laid down on one of the beds in the loft and tried to relax a
little. The nice soft bed did wonders for his sore rib and tired muscles. He
wasn’t sure how he pulled it off but he was pretty sure none of the family
members or Anna suspected anything was wrong with him. Putting up this front
was taking more out of him than he imagined it would, trouble was he couldn’t
think of any other way. The more he thought about things the heavier his
eyelids became, before long he was fast asleep.
Outside Jessie walked through the meadow grass over to the barn. Upon opening
the big barn doors he took in all the different sights and smells. The late
afternoon sun peaking in through the windows and door illuminated the large
barn quite nicely. As he walked over to Buck the granger of the barn and cabin
again took him back. Standing in the middle of the barn he turned his eyes
upwards towards the roof. Even in here everything was top notch, the rafters
were made from cut pine similar to those in the house, the roofs planks were
also cut out of pine. Why even the horse’s stalls were constructed out of pine.
Taking a deep breath he closed his eyes and drank in the pine and fresh hay
aroma. The smells reminded him of home and his Papa, slowly spinning in a circle
with his arms outstretched and his eyes closed he remembered back. Back to a
time when his family was a live and well, when he and his Papa worked side by
side. “Isn’t it grand Papa.” Jessie stated quietly as he continued to turn
around slowly. A gentle breeze blew in through the barn doors and swirled
around him, opening his eyes, Jessie smiled as he continued to dance with the
breeze.
As the front door slammed shut both Nick and Jarrod looked over their
shoulders. “Must you always be so loud!” Stated Nick as he stood up from his
chair.
“Why Nick, Jessie’s actually quieter than you are when you enter the house.”
Replied Jarrod as he shot a smile over at Jessie.
“There you go sticking up for him again!” Answered Nick as he walked over to
Jessie. “You get Buck all settled?”
“Yeah, he sure does love that big old barn you got.” Jessie replied with a
smile. He had long ago realized like Heath said, “Nick’s barks a lot worse than
his bite.”
“You remember to close the doors tight?” Nick asked as he placed his hands on
his hips.
“Of course… I’m not a little kid ya know.” Jessie answered as he started to
walk past Nick on his way into the great room.
“Not a kid huh!” Replied Nick as he grabbed Jessie around the middle and
flipped him upside down. “What’d ya say I just take you outside and dunk you in
the lake!” He added laughing.
“Help me Jarrod!” Jessie shouted as he frantically tried to hold onto one of
the room’s chairs.
“Nick, you know how upset Mother gets when you roughhouse.” Jarrod reminded him
before picking his paper back up.
“Your right,” replied Nick as he righted Jessie again. “How about a game of
checkers instead?” He asked.
“I’m black!” Shouted Jessie as he plopped down into one of the room’s chairs.
“Now what just a minute! I asked you to play so I get to pick the color!”
Exclaimed Nick as he carried over the checkerboard and sat across from Jessie.
Jarrod peeked over the top of his paper and smiled at the two little boys
playing checkers across from him.
Part 23
"I wouldn't move there if I were you," laughed Audra as she sat next
to Jessie watching Nick as he prepared to make his next move.
Frowning as he looked over the checkerboard at his sister, Nick defiantly moved
his piece despite his sister's warnings.
Jumping up like a drop of water on a hot frying pan Jessie quickly jumped
Nick's piece and added it to his growing pile.
"I tried to warn you Nick," giggled Audra as smiled at him.
"Don't you have anything else better to do!" Nick hollered as he
waved his hands at her.
"Now Nick, I do believe Audra was only trying to help." Stated Jarrod
as he looked over the top of his newspaper to get a better look at the
threesome.
"Now you just keep your nose out a this! Replied Nick as he pointed a
finger at Jarrod.
"Come on Nick it's your turn again," stated Jessie as he squirmed in
his chair.
"Keep your pants on boy, I'll move when I'm ready!" Replied Nick as
he directed his energy back across the board. Nick scoured the board looking
for the best move as Anna came up behind Jessie.
"Who's winning?" Anna questioned as she looked down on the board over
Jessie's shoulder.
“I am!” Shouted both Jessie and Nick in unison as they looked up at her.
“I see,” replied Anna as she tried to suppress her laughter. Trying to change
the subject she asked Jessie where Heath was. “Jessie, have you seen Heath?”
Jessie turned in his chair to get a better view of Anna, “No I haven’t seen him
since I took Buck over to the barn.” He replied as he looked around the room
almost expecting to see Heath sitting on the couch.
“Did he go out to the barn with you?” Asked Anna as she too scanned the room
looking for Heath.
“No…he was up in the loft when I left.” Replied Jessie as he glanced up there.
“Want me to help you find him?”
“You’re not getting out of this game that easy!” Stated Nick as he pointed
across the table at him.
“It’s all right Jessie, I’m sure I can find him.” Replied Anna as she bent down
next to Jessie. “Just don’t beat Nick to bad, all right?” She stated softly
before gently kissing his forehead.
“I won’t,” giggled Jessie as he looked over at Nick.
“You won’t think things are to funny after I win!” Exclaimed Nick as he tried
to wipe the smug smile off of Jessie’s face.
Anna walked towards the stairs as the playful banter between Nick and Jessie
rang in her ears. She remembered back to the small shy child Jessie had been
when she first met him; the change in him was almost magical. He had won back
his self-confidence and his feeling of self worth and it shown through clearly
in everything he said or did. Heath had played such a large role in Jessie’s
recovery. If it hadn’t been for him she doubted very much that Jessie would
have survived at all. Now if only she could make Heath see his own self worth.
As she reached the top of the stairs she looked into the loft, there lying on
the back bed next to the window was Heath. She smiled as she came up next to
the sleeping cowboy, one of his feet rested on the floor while the other hung
over the end of the bed. Anna watched as his hands went up and down with each
breath he took as they rested on his stomach. His eyes were shut and his lips
closed tight, gently sitting down next to him she ran her hand over the back of
his.
Sitting there next to him on the bed made her heart pound. The love she felt
for this quiet thoughtful man was overwhelming at times. Whenever he was near
her, her heart fluttered in her chest like she was a love sick little
schoolgirl. One goofy grin from him and she was done in. As she sat looking
down on him caressing the back of his hand she remembered back to the first
time they met.
Audra had successfully managed to drag her to one of the dances she was always
raving about. Being new in town, Anna hadn’t had a chance to meet to many
people especially men and Audra thought this was the perfect opportunity to
change that. Audra had spent countless hours telling her about her older
brother Jarrod and how much she was looking forward to the two of them meeting.
But when they arrived at the dance Jarrod was already on the dance floor. It
was then that Audra introduced her to her youngest brother, Heath. He certainly
was handsome and when he politely asked her to dance she accepted. She wasn’t
quite sure what to expect from a cowboy seeing as how back east there weren’t
any. But she was quite pleased to find him very interesting; he enjoyed talking
about the ranch, his family and his love of horses. She found herself hanging
on his every word. He never let the subject of their conversation dwell on
himself for very long as he often changed the subject back to her. As they
danced she felt more and more at ease with him. His simple easy demeanor was
one she found very appealing, his unselfish nature apparent in the way he
talked and acted around her. The sparkle in his eyes as he talked with her set
her heart to flutter and her face to blush.
Feeling his hand close around hers she was brought back to the present. Looking
over at Heath she watched as he sat up slowly. “Well Mr. Barkley we wondered
where you’d run off to.” Anna said with a smile.
“Sorry, didn’t realize I’d drifted off.” Stated Heath trying hard not to let
Anna see his discomfort. “I’d better get out side and tend the horses.” He
added as he struggled to get up off the bed without letting Anna see the pain
his rib caused him.
“Heath,” replied Anna as she stood up next to him and placed her arm on his.
“Are you sure you’re all right?” She asked trying hard to keep her own emotions
under control.
He knew it the moment he looked into her eyes that looking at her had been a
mistake. He could clearly see the fear and uncertainty she felt registered in
her clear green eyes. His heart flipped in his chest at the realization that
once again he was the cause of her pain. “I’m fine Anna, really.” He stated
quickly before turning away from her gaze and heading down the stairs.
Anna sat down on the bed with her hand loosely lying across her lap. She’d seen
the look in his eyes and knew everything was not all right.
Part 24
Anna sat upstairs a few moments longer gaining her composure
before rejoining the family downstairs. Audra watched as Anna slowly descended
down the stairs, she knew right away it wasn't the same Anna that just a short
while ago had gone up those very stairs in search of Heath.
Anna continued on into the great room past Nick and Jessie without a word. Her
thoughts were far away as she sat down on the sofa facing the fireplace, her
back now to everyone else in the room. Jessie and Nick hardly noticed her
passing as they sat glued to the checkerboard, each one trying to out wit the
other.
But both Audra and Jarrod noticed her quiet passing. Jarrod followed her with
his eyes as she sat down on the sofa. Looking over at Audra he noticed she too
had seen the change in Anna. Audra looked back across the room at Jarrod and
winked at him before standing up and going over to Anna. Sitting down next to
her friend she could really see how lost Anna truly looked.
Reaching out with her hand she gently touched Anna's arm. Anna jumped at her
touch causing Audra to withdraw her hand and apologize. "I'm sorry Anna, I
didn't mean to startle you." She stated hoping to bring Anna some comfort.
"I'm the one who should be sorry Audra," Anna began as she took
Audra's hand. "I was just daydreaming," she added smiling.
"About your up coming wedding I hope." Replied Audra cheerfully.
Anna's smile suddenly turned upside down; as it did she turned her head away
from Audra.
"Anna, what is it?" Questioned a very concerned Audra.
Anna sat and stared into the fire trying hard to hold back the tide of tears
that threatened to fall at any moment.
"Please Anna, I only want to help." Stated Audra as she squeezed
Anna's hand.
Anna heard the plea in Audra's voice and turned to look at her friend, she
could see the concern written across Audra's face. Standing up Anna forced
herself to keep her emotions in check. "Not here Audra," she said
quietly as she looked over at Jessie. Taking Audra's hand in her own, the two
girls walked through the great room and into the kitchen where they opened the
back door and walked out onto the porch.
Sitting down on the steps Anna turned and faced Audra, the tears she had tried
so hard to stop now ran unabated down her cheeks. "I'm sorry Audra, I
didn't mean to fall apart on you." Anna tried to apologize as she wiped
her eyes.
Handing Anna her lace handkerchief, Audra tried to comfort her. "It's all
right Anna, that's what are friends for. Can you tell me what's wrong?"
"That's the problem, I'm not really sure if anything is wrong."
Replied Anna as the tears began anew.
"Anna something's upsetting you, does it have to do with Heath?"
Questioned Audra as she put her arm around Anna.
Anna sat and thought about Audra's question, how could she possibly tell her
what she was feeling if she herself wasn't sure. She knew Heath felt
responsible for what happened with her and those awful men in town but she
thought, at least until a few moments ago that all that was settle between
them. She knew his rib was troubling him again but after his cold shoulder and
the sad hurt look in his eyes upstairs she was no longer certain everything was
all right. "I'm just worried about Heath," Anna spoke softly. "I
thought we'd left the incident in Stockton with those men behind us but now I'm
not so sure." She looked up at her friend through tear filled eyes.
"He just seems so distant all of a sudden. I miss him so much Audra and
he's right here with me. How can I get him back?"
Audra threw her arms around Anna and let her friend cry. Tears also found their
way down her face as she thought about the last week and how she too had
noticed a change in Heath. It saddened her to think she really hadn't thought
much about it until Anna mentioned it. How many times had Heath been there for
her in the past? How many times had he figured out something was wrong with her
before anyone else in the family had. And now when she could finally help him
she'd failed. "I should have been there for him," Audra cried as she
held onto Anna. "I could have helped him."
Anna sat back up and wiped away some of Audra's tears, "It's not your
fault Audra, it's not anyone's. Please don't blame yourself, I don't think any
of us saw this coming."
"He's always been there for me Anna. He always knows just what to say or
do. Even though he hasn't been part of our family for very long it's as if he's
been here my entire life. I don't know what I'd do without him. And now when he
needed me I failed him." Audra sobbed as new tears began to caress her
cheeks.
"You didn't fail him Audra, he's so good at hiding his feelings he had us
all fooled. But not anymore, now we can fight to get him back. I'm not going to
let him hurt himself any longer. Whaddya say, you with me?" Anna asked,
once again wiping the tears from her own and Audra's cheeks.
"I'll do anything to help him Anna." Replied Audra as she hugged her
friend.
Victoria watched silently from the kitchen window as Audra and Anna continued
talking on the back porch. She'd seen the tears both women shed and knew who
they were shed for. Taking off her apron and placing it on the counter she
headed for the back door to talk with the girls. She was determined all this
foolishness was going to end tonight!
Part 25
The evening air was starting to turn chilly as the sun made it’s way down past the
mountain peaks and the three women sat on the back porch hatching out their
plan. Even though the chilly air caused the skin on her arms to break out in
goose bumps Anna's heart felt warmer and lighter than it had in days.
Victoria's idea was sure to work, with the entire family involved how could it
not.
Asking Anna a question and getting no response Victoria turned to her left and
looked at her. She watched as Anna sat with her arms wrapped around her staring
off into the distance. Putting her arm around Anna’s shoulders, she tried to
comfort her.
“We’ll make him stop all this nonsense tonight, don’t worry.” She remarked as
she tenderly rubbed Anna’s back.
Victoria’s touch brought Anna back from her thoughts, “Thank you Victoria,” she
stated with a smile.
“Why don’t we head inside, it’s getting a little chilly out here.” Stated
Victoria as she helped Anna up. “If you two wouldn’t mind setting the table for
me, I’ll go and fill in the boys.”
As the girls set the table for dinner Victoria made her way into the great
room. “Jessie, would you mind going out to the barn and getting Heath for me? I
need to speak with Nick and Jarrod a moment, about you know what.” She added
with a smile.
“Sure,” replied an obviously excited Jessie.
Nick and Jarrod both watched as the boy ran out the front door slamming it as
he left. “Would you mind telling us dear lady what it is you two are planning?”
Questioned Jarrod as he helped Victoria sit down. Victoria motioned for Nick to
join her and Jarrod on the couch before she began.
Rushing out into the cool evening air, Jessie quickly closed the distance
between the house and barn. With his heart hammering away in his chest he
slowly opened the large barn door and peered inside. He could see light coming
from a lantern hanging near the far end of the barn but the barn itself was
eerily quiet. Closing the barn door he quietly made his way down towards the
soft glow of light at the end of the barn. As he grew closer he could just make
out Charger standing tall in his stall at the end of the row but he couldn’t
see Heath. The cool air and eerie quietness made the hairs on the back of his
arms stand straight up as he slowly made his way down to Chargers stall. Coming
around the back of Charger he finally spotted Heath. He was sitting on a hay
bale with his elbows resting on his knees and his head resting in his hands.
Jessie stood silently and looked at Heath, his heart sank as he took in how sad
Heath looked. His proud shoulders were rounded as he sat holding his head in his
hands, and there was a certain look of defeat about him Jessie had never seen
before.
“Heath?” Jessie spoke quietly almost jumping at the sound of his own voice in
the quiet barn.
Having been lost in a world all his own Heath hadn’t heard Jessie enter the
barn and was equally surprised at the sound of his voice. Looking up he tried
to once again hide the pain he was feeling both physically and mentally. “Sorry
Jessie didn’t hear you come in,” he replied quickly while standing up and
walking over to Charger.
Jessie watched as Heath walked over and started brushing Charger without so
much as a glance backwards. He could feel the tears welling up in his eyes as
he watched Heath with Charger. Why did all this have to happen now just when
everything was starting to go Heath’s way? Mustering up all his courage, Jessie
shuffled forward towards Heath. “Mrs. Barkley wanted me to come get you,
suppers ready.” He managed to say without his voice giving away his true
feelings.
His hand stopped brushing Charger but his head remained turned away from
Jessie. “Tell her I’m sorry but I’m just not hungry.” He stated quietly before
once again brushing Charger.
“I can’t Heath,” came Jessie’s quiet reply. “She told me I couldn’t come back
up to the cabin unless you were with me.” Jessie added as he looked down at his
boots.
Heath stopped brushing Charger and looked over at the small boy. He couldn’t
see Jessie’s face but he could tell from the slumped shoulders and trench he’d
dug with his heel in the soft dirt floor that all was not well. Knowing once
again his actions caused someone else’s pain; Heath gave in and went over to
Jessie.
“Well we can’t have you wasting away now can we.” Stated Heath as he placed a
hand on Jessie’s shoulder.
With a smile as wide as the Grand Canyon, Jessie looked up at Heath. He’d won
the first battle; he’d gotten Heath to come inside. Mrs. Barkley was going to
have to do the rest; just this little bit had worn him out. “I’m starving!” He
added as the two began their journey towards the cabin.
“Well I’m sure mother will be pleased about that.” Replied Heath as they walked
out the barn’s door.
Heath kept his hand on Jessie’s shoulder as the pair made their way up the
porch steps and into the cabin. Once inside they made their way to into the
kitchen to wash up before joining the rest of the family at the dinner table.
Victoria looked around the table and watched Jarrod, Nick, Audra, Anna, and
Jessie all glancing at Heath whenever they could. All seemed quiet now but
Victoria new the real test of their family would come after dinner.
Part 26
Jessie wiped his mouth and looked down as he placed the linen napkin back on
his lap. As he looked down at the napkin he realized his hands were shaking. He
wasn't sure how he was going to be able to cope with what Mrs. Barkley had
planned for after dinner, but he knew he had too. He'd noticed over the course
of the past few weeks how far Heath had managed to distance himself from the
rest of his family and especially from Anna. He hated seeing the sad hurt look
in Heath's eyes whenever he thought someone wasn't looking. He'd seen that same
look in Anna's eyes also, and he didn't care for it one bit. No matter what it
took he was going to make Heath understand the type of man he truly was, he had
to fix his heart. He'd tried once to help him alone but this time he had
Heath's family and Anna on his side.
A hand on his shoulder startled him out of his thoughts, looking over to his
right he found the hand belonged to Nick. "We can do this Jessie," he
said quietly as he rubbed Jessie's back.
Jessie smiled up at Nick thankful for the comfort he felt just having him by
his side. He knew he could count on Nick’s help and support through what ever
was to come.
As dinner came to an end Victoria asked everyone to gather in the great room as
she had a family matter to discuss with them. Audra, Anna, and Jessie sat next
to one another on the sofa with Nick and Jarrod seated in chairs across from
them. Heath stood next to the fireplace staring into the flames with his back
to everyone.
As Victoria made her way into the great room all eyes except for Heath's made
their way to hers. Victoria looked at the hopeful faces all turned her way and
smiled slightly, that smile faded as she noticed Heath's lack of interest.
Turning back to the rest of the family she began.
His head pounded and his side ached, he'd rather be anywhere else but here,
facing Matt Bentell had been easier than facing his own family. Why wouldn't
they just leave him alone, why couldn't they see it was for the best? How many
times did he have to explain it to them? No matter how hard he tried he
couldn't shut them out, they just wouldn't leave him alone. Backed up against
the fireplace he had no place to run, to turn, he was forced to listen to their
concerns.
"Heath, loving knowing that you are going to get hurt, is like living
knowing that you are going to die. But not loving so you don't get hurt, is
like killing yourself before you die." Stated Victoria as she placed her
hands on his cheeks trying as she might to get through to him.
Heath looked into her eyes and could see the pain she was feeling the idea that
he caused her pain once again nauseated him. For the past hour he'd been forced
to listen as each member of his family confronted him about his heritage and
why he shouldn't let others actions and words affect the way he felt about
himself or Anna. The pain he saw in Victoria's eyes was too much and suddenly
the room seemed a lot smaller than it had only a short time ago.
"Please Heath, you'll never lose by loving. You'll only lose by holding
back." Added Audra as she watched the hurt look in her brother's eyes
deepen. They'd been talking to him more than with him for the past hour now and
to Audra it didn't seem as though any thing had changed. Heath still seemed so
lost and withdrawn it hurt her to see him this way.
"I need some fresh air," Heath stated quietly as he gently removed
Victoria's hands from his face. As he turned to walk from the room, Nick met
him head on.
"Not until we resolve this Heath." He stated calmly. "I'm not
letting you walk out that door until I'm sure this is settled."
Heath could see the concern in Nick's eyes but he just couldn't deal with this
issue a moment longer. He needed to be outside where he was sure he could clear
his head and sort out this whole mess. As he tried to step around Nick, Nick
grabbed Heath's left arm with his left arm to stop Heath from going any
further.
"Take your hand off me Nick," stated Heath, as he looked Nick in the
face.
"Like I said before, not until we settle this." Replied Nick calmly
as he kept a hold of Heath's arm.
Jarrod walked around Nick and stood next to Heath. "Heath I think it would
be better if you stayed. There's still a lot more that we need to discuss.
"He stated trying to defuse the situation before it could get out of hand.
He knew how hot headed both his younger brothers could be and given the already
delicate situation he knew how short their fuses would be.
"There's nothing left to discuss Jarrod." Replied Heath before
quickly wrenching his left arm free from Nick's grasp. The sudden turning
motion did cause Nick to loose his grip but he recovered quickly and grabbed
the back of Heath's shirt before he could take more than a step away.
"I said you're not going anywhere!" Shouted Nick as he spun Heath
around to face him.
Before Heath could lift his fist Jarrod was behind him locking his arms behind
his back by entwining his own arms through his brother’s elbows. Heath quickly
broke free from his brother's grasp but managed to once again aggravate his
injured rib. "Stay out of this Jarrod," he stated before turning back
to face Nick.
As the two brothers faced off a new voice was heard over the shouting,
"Stop it! Just stop it! Please!" Shouted Jessie as he ran in between
Nick and Heath. "It wasn't supposed to be this way!" He sobbed more
than shouted.
“Jessie….” Started Anna as she quickly came up next to him.
“No Anna,” Jessie stated as he moved back from her. “You said this would help
him, you said he would understand if we all talked to him.” Stated Jessie as he
turned to face Victoria. “But it’s not can’t you see he’s hurting even more! I
can’t lose another family I just can’t!” He shouted before running from the
room and out the front door.
The room was strangely quiet; as Heath turned to follow Jessie Nick grabbed his
arm.
As Heath turned and looked back at him, Nick saw the pain in his brother’s
eyes. He knew Heath only wanted to follow Jessie and let go of his arm. Jarrod
walked up next to Nick as Heath walked away and out the front door.
Anna looked at all the emotionally drained faces in the room, as her glance
fell on Victoria their eyes met. A slight smile graced the corners of
Victoria’s mouth as she motioned for Anna to follow Heath.
Anna returned a small smile of her own before rushing out the door after him.
“Shouldn’t we follow them Mother?” Questioned Audra as she walked over to the
window.
“No dear, this is something they have to deal with as a family.”
Part 27
He raced down the porch steps and off into the tall grass at full speed. Not
caring whether he tripped over anything in the darkness or not. His heart ached
at the scene that had played out before him. He needed to get away, he need to
clear his head. He desperately needed the crushing pain in his chest to go
away. He couldn't take seeing the lost lonely look in Heath's eyes any longer.
He'd had such hope that Mrs. Barkley's idea would finally bring him around.
That it would make him see how much he meant to everyone.
But to Jessie it only seemed to make matters worse. His heart simply couldn't
take seeing his hero hurt any longer and he had to put a stop to it. But now
after doing so his heart still ached and he didn't know how to mend it.
Tripping over some unseen object hidden within the tall grass Jessie flew
through the air and landed in a heap. Curling himself up into a small ball he
lay in the darkness and cried.
Heath walked down the porch steps holding onto his left side. The short scuffle
with his brothers had proven too much and his rib protested loudly. Pushing
down the pain his first thoughts were of Jessie. He'd heard the desperation in
the boy's voice and seen it in his eyes. He needed to find him and correct his
mistake; he needed to reassure Jessie he would never leave, that he would
always be there for him. As that last thought raced through his head he stopped
dead in his tracks.
"I could never leave him, him or Anna." There he'd said it at last,
and he knew it to be true. He couldn't leave them; he had to fight for what was
right. He'd work the rest of his life making sure they had the best of
everything.
Hanging his head and shaking it, he realized what a fool he'd been these last
few weeks. His heart ached at the realization of the pain he caused Jessie, Anna,
and his family. He was brought back to the present as a small warm hand found
it's way into his own. Looking down at Anna he could see the moon reflected
back in the tears that had fallen down her face.
Pulling her into an embrace he apologized. "Anna I'm sorry," he said
quietly while holding her tightly. "I was so wrong, can you ever forgive
me?"
Stepping back slightly but keeping her hands on his waist she looked up at him
and answered, "I love you Heath, I always will. There's nothing to
forgive."
Heath pulled her tight against his chest and ran his hand through her soft
hair. Her unwavering love for him started to heal the gapping wound in his
heart.
As Anna rested her head against Heath's chest a warm feeling spread throughout
her. She had a strong sense that this time he was here to stay. As she listed
to his steady heartbeat a small sound managed to work it's way into her ear. It
sounded like a small child crying, Jessie! "Heath, we need to find
Jessie."
Anna wrapped her hand in Heaths as they took off together towards the small
sobbing sounds coming from the grass ahead of them. Anna noticed the painful
way Heath moved and the sweat now forming on his brow even in the cool night
air as they hurried through the grass. As Jessie's cries became clearer Anna
turned her attention back to the task at hand.
They came upon the small form curled up in the tall grass. Dropping to their
knees both Heath and Anna placed a hand on Jessie's back.
"Jessie…Jessie are you all right?" Questioned a concerned Anna as she
gently pushed the hair out of his eyes and back across his forehead.
Jessie remained curled up in a ball as Anna looked up at Heath. "Jessie,
are you hurt?" Questioned Heath as he rubbed the boy's back.
Jessie recoiled from Heath's touch, sitting up he shouted, "Don't touch
me! You lied! You lied to me Heath!"
Heath withdrew his hand and looked over at Anna. She could see the hurt
bewildered look in his eyes and her heart went out to him. "Jessie, Heath
hasn't lied to you." She replied as she took the small boy in her arms.
"He did, Anna." Sobbed Jessie as he buried his head against her
chest. "He said he'd never leave."
Jessie's words stirred Anna's own fears, as she looked over at Heath she was
unable to read his face in the darkness but she knew the pain Jessie's words
would have caused.
"Jessie Heath's not leaving us." Replied Anna as she ran her hand in
small circles on his back.
"He is Anna, I know he is!" Shouted Jessie defiantly as he looked up
at Anna.
"Jessie what makes you believe that?" Questioned Anna as she tried to
quiet him down.
Jessie looked over at Heath and then back to Anna, "because he's pushing
us and everyone else away." Jessie answered in a quiet scared voice.
Heath looked up at Anna and she watched as a tear traced its way down his face.
She saw the hurt look in his eyes and knew he'd taken everyone of Jessie's
words to heart. She knew the pain he was feeling but part of her was glad he
was feeling that pain. It meant he still cared for them, it meant he wouldn't leave
them.
"Jessie…" Heath started before loosing his voice and turning his head
away.
Anna heard the sorrow in his voice, reaching out she cupped his cheek in her
hand and turned his head back towards her and Jessie. "Tell him
Heath," was all she said as she looked into his tear filled eyes.
After a moments silence he began, "You're right Jessie? I did lie to
you." Stated Heath as he reached out and touched Jessie's shoulder.
"When I told you the men who hurt Anna were different than Hank and his
men I was wrong. You were right; they were using me just like Hank and Matt
used you. I'm sorry I hurt you and Anna Jessie, I hope you can forgive
me." He added as fresh tears fell down his face.
Seeing the pain etched on Heath's face and hearing the anguish in his voice,
Jessie knew Heath was telling him the truth now and not holding back on him.
Relief swept through his aching heart as he threw himself into Heath’s arms.
Heath held the small child tightly as Anna joined them. They sat in the cool
moonlight for a long time just enjoying the closeness and warmth of each
other’s embrace.
Part 28
Jessie sat and stared at the point on the lake that
intersected with the line of his fishing pole. The small off white line
punctured the crystal clear blue water about twenty feet in front of him. He
sat up straighter and tightened the grip on his pole as little ripples appeared
radiating out from the line as it moved ever so slightly in the water. Watching
the line intently he pulled back and up as soon as it jerked in the water.
Feeling the weight of a fish on his line he jumped up to his feet and began
fighting to bring the fish to shore.
Butterflies and dragonflies swam in the air around the small boy as he
struggled with his prize. Deep concentration was etched on his tan face and his
tongue peeked out between his lips as he pulled the large fish closer to shore.
Perspiration beaded up on his brow as his small muscles struggled to pull the
fish in. Jessie watched in fascination as the fish leapt out of the water and
flopped around in mid air. Time seemed to stand still as the fish hovered over
the water twisting back and forth trying to dislodge the hook. The sun
glistened of it’s back as Jessie marveled at it’s sleek beauty. Just as quickly
as it appeared it once again slipped beneath the water sending shimmering
ringlets out in it’s wake. Fighting with the fish for all he was worth Jessie
managed to reel him in close to shore. With one last mighty tug he heaved his
prize up on the bank, there flopping around at his feet was the biggest
steelhead trout he’d ever seen.
Bending down he noticed the coloration on the back of the trout. It was
blue-green that shaded into olive with black, regularly spaced spots. The black
spots also covered both lobes of its tail. The black coloration faded over the
lateral line to a silver white coloration blending more to white on its
stomach. The silvery sheen that colored the remainder of the trout was
breathtaking.
“How’d you get all the way up here?” Jessie asked the fish as he ran his hand
across its side. “There must be a stream feeding this lake huh?”
Jessie continued to talk to his prize as he gathered up his belongings and
headed off back to the cabin. “Wait’ll Nick sees you,” he exclaimed happily as
he held up his prize.
Nick was seated on the porch steps with his back resting against a post
whittling away as Anna and Heath sat on the porch swing in each other’s arms
talking quietly. Sneaking a peak at the pair, Nick was pleased to see the large
smile his younger brother wore. At the beginning of this trip he almost thought
he’d never see that silly half grin again. Confronting Heath had been hard but
Nick had to admit once again his mother had been right and they had won Heath
back. It hadn’t been easy and had taken quite a toll on the entire family, but
now the ugly mess was gone, buried, hopefully forever this time.
Turning his head away from the lovebirds, movement off to the right caught his
eye. Nick smiled and chuckled to himself as he watched Jessie make his way through
the tall grass as he struggled with a rather large fish.
“Nick! Hey Nick!” Shouted Jessie as he waved his hand unceremoniously dumping
the fish on the ground. “Isn’t he grand!”
Nick laughed at the site before him, putting down his knife and wood he walked
down the steps and out into the tall grass. “That’s some fish, boy. You catch
him all by yourself?” Asked Nick as he stood in front of Jessie with his hands
on his hips.
“I sure did,” answered Jessie proudly as he tried to recapture his prize. “ Isn’t
he the biggest steelhead you ever saw?” Added Jessie as he held the fish out
for Nick to see.
“Jessie that’s not a steelhead it’s a rainbow,” replied Nick knowingly.
“No Nick sees how his guy is really sleek, and he’s mainly silver. That’s
because he came from the ocean. My Pa says that’s the way you can tell them
apart and all.” Jessie answered hoping he had made things clearer for Nick.
“And just how do you suppose he came all the way from the ocean to our little
lake?” Questioned Nick as he folded his arms across his chest.
“There must be a stream feedin into it is my guess,” replied Jessie as if it
was the most obvious answer in the world.
“I still say it’s a rainbow,” replied Nick before turning around and heading
back towards the porch.
Jessie followed close behind Nick so he could show his prize to Heath and Anna.
Carrying the large trout up onto the porch he dropped it in front of them as
they sat in the swing. “Have you ever seen one so big Heath?” Questioned a very
enthusiastic Jessie.
“Well little guy I think that there is just about the biggest steelhead I’ve
ever seen around these parts.” Answered Heath as he slowly sat forward.
“Rainbow!” Shouted Nick as he looked over at the trio from his seat on the
steps.
Heath looked down at the trout and studied it for a moment before answering.
“It’s a steelhead alright Nick.”
“Your just side’ in with the kid,” answered Nick as he got to his feet and
stomped over next to Jessie.
“Look at it Nick, it’s much to sleek and see the body, it’s mainly silver.”
Answered Heath as he turned the fish over so Nick could get a better look at
it. “Any how Nick, it’s still bigger than anything you’ve ever pulled out of
the lake.” Laughed Heath.
“Why I’ve caught fish bigger than that when I was barely up to my father’s
knees!” Replied Nick defending his honor.
Anna laughed when she heard Nicks reply which in turn only seemed to make him
madder. “Jessie why don’t you let me help you clean him so we can cook him for
dinner.” Injected Anna as she rose to her feet.
“You wanna help Nick?” Questioned Jessie as he picked up the trout and held it
out to him. “I mean since you’ve caught bigger ones you must be pretty good at
it.” He added smiling.
Heath and Anna couldn’t contain their laughter any longer and laughed out loud.
“No I don’t wanna help clean that fish! Now why don’t you just run along and
get out a here!” Shouted Nick as he waved his hands in front of Jessie.
Anna and Jessie scampered away laughing leaving Nick and Heath alone on the
porch. Trying as hard as he could not to laugh at his older brother, Heath was
loosing the battle.
Looking down on his red faced younger brother; Nick took off his hat and
swatted him with it. “It’s not funny Heath!” He shouted as he plopped down next
to him.
Regaining some of his composure, Heath sat up straight and answered, “No I
guess if I was in your shoes Nick I wouldn’t say it was funny either.” He
answered seriously.
Slowly turning his head he looked over at Heath and saw the twinkle in his
brother’s eye, “How’s the rib?” He questioned, trying to find out how Heath was
feeling.
“I think it’s finally healing this time,” replied Heath as he rubbed his side.
“Anna did a real fine job of wrapping it for me.”
“Well she had better get used to you all wrapped up,” replied Nick as he shot
Heath a smile. “Maybe she’ll be able to keep you in one piece.”
Nick and Heath sat in silence for a while just silently enjoying one anthers
company and the pleasant scenery. Heath could tell Nick had something on his
mind, as it wasn’t like him to sit in one place for too long. “Something on
your mind Nick?”
“Well I was just wonderin if everything was OK between you and Anna,” he asked
looking over at his brother.
Sending his brother his patented half smile Heath answered, “Yeah Nick,
everything’s just fine.”
To be continued…