It had hardly begun and yet Tom felt worn by the day ahead of him. He should have made Strawberry yesterday afternoon but one of his newly purchased colts came up lame and he was forced to slow up. When he finally rode into town it was well past midnight. He'd stabled the horses, found himself a room, and collapsed on the bed but once again found himself unable to sleep. Last night Tom rested unsure of his decision to make the trip but now, only a few hours later, those thoughts were gone, never to return in his lifetime.

Before daylight worried about his horses and the injured colt, Tom strolled back to the livery. Even through the thick heavy haze already warned of another extremely hot summer day, he was glad for the early light. Strawberry was not the town he remembered and after a quick look around the reality was almost too much to bare. This town he remembered as full of life, hope, and unbridled enthusiasm was now just another of California's many dying mining towns.

The livery was quiet due to the extremely early hour. Tom wandered over towards his horses and found them freshly curried enjoying a hearty breakfast in immaculately clean stalls. The colt was missing so Tom continued out into the back corral. There he watched a young boy chatter away to the normally nervous beast. In response to his banter and gentle touch, the animal was letting the boy clean, treat, and redress his sore leg. Surprisingly the animal wasn't frightened or nervous. He was actually following the boy's every move attempting to play with him.

The colt smelt Tom before the boy heard him. Tom decided to make his presence known hoping not to frighten the youngster.

"Hello," he moved forward.

The young boy jumped up and spun around all at the same time. He looked down at his boots after quickly checking out Tom from head to toe. The colt nuzzled into his shoulder and the boy reached to pet his mane.

"Mr Corley won't be in until daylight."

"That's all right. I just wandered back here to check on this colt. I've been very worried about him. Thank you for taking such good care of all my stock."

The boy didn't look up. Quietly he spoke, "You're welcome but that's my job".

"You work here all alone?"

This question caused the boy to snap his head up and straighten his shoulders to meet Tom's gaze.

"I've worked here without missing a day since I was six. Mr Corley trusts me with the livery. You got a problem with that, mister?"

Tom couldn't speak but did manage to shake his head indicating he didn't have a problem while still holding the boy's gaze. Instinctively he reached out and patted the young man on the back but the boy pulled away and headed back into the stables. Tom stayed frozen by the colt in shock from what his eyes had just seen.

Unable to settle the thousands of thoughts rushing through his mind, Tom retreated across the street to the general store's bench. It was now two hours later, the sun blared in the sky but he sat stunned.

The livery owner arrived shortly after Tom retreated and he worked with the boy finishing the morning chores. Around 7:00AM, the boy rushed away unaware he was being watched. He turned to call his dog allowing the spy from across the street one more brief gaze at his face and eyes. Tom assumed the boy was going for breakfast.

Tom gathered his nerve and returned to his animals. Mr Corley nodded as he entered but continued to talk to another customer. Tom found the animals remained in wonderful condition resting in their stalls.

"Checking out, mister?"

Tom looked up and accepted the hand as it was offered.

"No, I have some business around Strawberry for a few days. I wanted to check on my animals. They have been wonderfully cared for ... Thank you."

"Wish I could take credit. Wasn't me. My stable boy, Heath, has a way with animals."

"Yes, I can see that is more than true. I was in earlier and he had this skittish colt well under control."

Mr Corley laughed as he walked towards the front to greet another customer.

"Let me know if you need anything."

Tom leaned against a piece of fencing. His mind went back to the boy's, Heath's, face. It was like seeing his father. As if those azure blue eyes weren't enough ... There was also the nose, mouth, blond hair, fair skin and look of brightness which all matched exactly his memories of his father, Theodore Barkley.

Yes! There sure was something Mr Corley could do for him. He wanted to chase after the owner and ask him a million question about the boy but felt it was better if he held his tongue. No matter how hard that decision was to stick with.

He finally wandered back to the front of the stable. Mr Corley was getting ready to do some blacksmith jobs which made the area even hotter with the newly built fire.

"When will Heath be back?"

"Not till this evening. Why? He leave something undone."

"NO!", Tom thought up a small lie to cover why he really wanted to see the boy, "I wanted to watch him redress that colt's leg. Figure I could learn a few things."

Mr Corley laughed, "Surely you could. The boy has the touch. But Health works out on Mr Duncan's ranch all day. He usually stops by home for a bite of dinner then comes back to clean and close up the livery for me."

"My goodness. He looks too young for a schedule like that."

"Mister," Mr Corley laughed, "Heath is the hardest working boy or man I've ever known. He handles his schedule fine".

"I'm sure he does. I'll try and make it back this evening."

They exchanged farewells and Tom wandered through town. The dust lay thick on everything giving the entire place a look of being old and worn out. The mine was obviously on it's last legs. Luckily, the freight companies still routed through Strawberry explaining the good condition some of the businesses, namely the livery, saloon, and general store, remained in.

Tom stopped as he turned the corner at the edge of town. There it was, just as he remembered. A small green house with a white picket fence. It was in good shape and had obviously been well cared for over the years. Tom walked up to the door but stopped before he knocked.

He took a moment to mentally review her letter. The shock of hearing from Leah after almost thirteen years still lingered. The letter had been brief:

DEAR TOM,
FORGIVE ME FOR CONTACTING YOU AT YOUR FAMILY'S HOME. I KNEW OF NO OTHER WAY TO REACH YOU. IF YOU CAN, PLEASE COME TO STRAWBERRY. WE NEED TO TALK.

I'LL UNDERSTAND IF YOU DISREGARD THIS LETTER.

REGARDS, LEAH THOMSON

Still lost in his thoughts of the letter, Tom didn't notice when the front door opened.

"Mr Barkley?"

His eyes settled on a small black woman with large dark pools for eyes. He instantly remembered her.

"Yes, Miss Hannah. Is Miss Leah available? I apologize for the early hour."

"Come in. She's been waiting for you. Mornings is her best time anyway."

They walked into the one room home. The combined kitchen/living area had been changed into a sick room. Resting on a overstuffed chair by the bed was a very ill woman. She was dozing until Hannah whispered in her ear.

Their eyes met ....

Tom swept in the room and fell to his knees at Leah's feet. Without a word he enclosed her small hands inside his own and gazed into her wondrously green eyes. She didn't speak but used the little strength she had to hold on to Tom.

"My God, why didn't you write to me sooner? What can I do for you?"

His words brought tears to her eyes and she struggled to sit up to catch her breath. Leah's attempts to breath were a combination of wheezes and gurgles. This poor woman hadn't long to live.

"Never mind me. I'm going home soon."

Hannah reached down and gently patted Leah's shoulder. She left for the kitchen and started to prepare her friend's pain medication and a pot of tea.

"We have to talk ..."

The attempt to speak while trying to contain her emotions was too much. Tom shook himself mentally and stepped in so she could rest.

"I met Heath."

Leah rested her head back and tears flowed steadily down her horribly thin face. She closed her eyes but he could tell she was listening due to the grip she kept on his hands.

"He's an outstanding young man. I recognized Heath the moment I saw him at the livery this morning. I know you never met or saw my father ... Heath could be his twin. Oh Leah, all these years, why didn't you tell me?"

Hannah was back at their side and offered Tom tea. When he looked up, her eyes and mouthed words indicated he shouldn't push Leah for answers to such questions at the present time.

He quickly changed the subject, shifting his weight, he quietly asked, "Does our boy know about me?".

Leah opened her eyes and shook her head to indicate Heath was unaware Tom Barkley was his father. They sat in silence for a moment. Suddenly Leah shuttered trying to hold back her reaction to pain. She coughed and sputtered, Hannah slid in front of her pushing Tom aside.

They argued, with the shorthand language used between the closest of friends, but Leah continued to refuse the pain medicine Hannah prepared. Instead she took a few sips of the tea before waving Hannah off and setting her gaze back on Tom.

He moved closer to hear as she spoke in a horse whisper, choking out brief phrases, "Need your help. Must take guardianship. Can't let Matt get him".

"Matt?"

Hannah answered his question for her friend.

"Mr Simmons over at the hotel. Remember he is Miss Leah's older half-brother. He and his wife, Martha, have made their intentions to adopt the boy known to us all. Even though Miss Leah signed papers saying Miss Rachel and myself should haves him."

Yes, it came back to him. Matt Simmons was a mousy drunk who ran the broken down Strawberry hotel where Tom currently rented a room. His wife was a strange character ... A dangerous woman with an unstable mind.

But he smiled remembering Rachel Caufield and her husband. Funny Mr Caufield's name wasn't easily dug from the back of Tom's mind.

"Oh, Leah! Of course I want Heath. He's our son. I only wish I'd known him for all these years."

His mind drifted as he looked around at the dismal surroundings. The house was clean enough to eat off the bare wood floors but shouted poverty at every turn. There was a small cot at the end of Leah's bed and another one squeezed into the kitchen. The wash facilities were outback but offered little in the way or privacy or comfort. Some pictures dotted the walls but otherwise there were no decorations beside a few vases of wildflowers. The entire house smelled of illness and yes, it smelled of death.

Leah's quiet voice brought him back to her side.

"Got your letter. At first, I didn't want to hurt your family. Later, I was too proud to come begging for charity. But now ..."

She began to cough uncontrollably. Hannah rushed to her side and tried to comfort her. The mask of pain covered her face. He turned his head from the wretched scene.

Leah pushed Hannah and her medicine away once more. Pulling herself up onto her elbows and leaning forward, she reached down into the depths of her soul for strength. Glaring into Tom's eyes, she finally spoke, "Now ... Heath needs his father. He needs you, Thomas Barkley. Please hurry".

Leah collapsed back into her chair gasping for air. Hannah pushed Tom back one more time.

"You go now. Miss Leah done told you what you needs to do. She won't rest lessen that boy be safe."

"I'll go. But I'll be back later."

Neither woman paid him any attention as he quietly slipped out the front door. Back on the streets of Strawberry, he started to formulate a plan. There wasn't any legal counsel in this little town so he prepared a wire for an attorney he liked in San Francisco. He had the text completely thought out by the time he wrote it down to be wired.

Next, he went to the livery and had his horse saddled. Requesting directions for the Duncan ranch, Tom headed in that direction unsure what his next action should be. A short distance from town, he turned his horse around.

The house looked pretty much the same as it had thirteen years before. The small dressmaking shop attached to the side looked empty. He took a chance and went in. "Morning, Mrs Caufield. May I borrow some of your time?"

The older woman put down the dress she was hemming and stood up to better view her visitor. Instantly recognizing him, she couldn't hide the distaste seeing him brought to her being.

"As I recall, Mr Barkley, you and I were on a first name basis before you left town."

"Yes, ma'am. May I call you Rachel?"

"Of course. But being a Christian woman I can't use the names rushing through my mind right now regarding you, Thomas."

Their conversation remained heated for a few moments. Finally Tom mentioned his intention to legally declare Heath as his own. The ice in Rachel's demeanor began to melt after that.

Through his conversation with Rachel Caufield Tom learned much about Heath's early life. Rachel, her husband, and Hannah took active roles in his care including assisting during his birth. The town basically shunned Leah and Heath.

Things were so heated when Heath began school, they pulled him out for fear of his life. Since then, he worked with Rachel whose parents were both teachers. In her opinion, Heath was a gifted student with a talent for mathematics and an insatiable thirst for new books to read. Rachel's husband spent time with Heath when he was young. They used to go riding, fishing, hunting, and all the things a boy usually does with his father. When Heath was five, Rachel's husband passed on. The only other men who paid Heath any mind were Mr Corley (livery), Mr Duncan (rancher), and his uncle, Matt Simmons. But those relationships were all based on Heath being their employee.

In the case of Mr Simmons, Rachel insisted the employment relationship was violent. Often, she'd seen Matt Simmons slap Heath around and when he was drunk the beatings could be extensive. The sheriff, pastor, and local citizens all turned their eyes from Heath's swollen lips and black eyes. They seemed to feel an illegitimate boy deserved to be mistreated.

Leah tried to protect Heath from Matt but when her health failed eighteen months before ... Heath's various jobs became their only income. Necessity forced Heath to accept more and more work at the hotel but he never complained. Rachel and Hannah did all they could but with Strawberry slowly dying ... Their wasn't much money available to any of them.

"Do you want Heath, Thomas?"

"Yes. I thought I'd made that perfectly clear hours before we sat down to lunch." "Oh, you said it. But do you really understand what those words mean?"

"I thought they meant I finally did what I should have been allowed to do years ago. Claim my boy and provide him a name, a heritage."

"Yes, it does mean those things. But what about your family? Victoria and the children? Your decision effects them too."

Tom lowered his head. He remembered Victoria's worried smile as he set off on a trip supposedly based on purchasing a few new horses. Horses which they didn't need at the present time. She knew it and so did he. He couldn't find any words to tell her about Leah's letter and his need to grant her request.

"I could be headed for real trouble at home. You are very correct. But ..."

His mind drifted to Heath's face.

"But?"

"But ... Heath is my flesh and blood. He isn't responsible for the circumstances of his birth and yet he seems to have suffered greatly because of it."

"There were many, many good times too. Back before Leah got sick I never once walked up to their front door without hearing laughter on the other side. She's loved that boy as few have been loved. In return, you're getting a wonderful son."

"I know. I could tell from your stories. Leah has done a wonderful job. But I accept my responsibility to step in now that she is unable."

Giving in to her uncontrollable desire to comfort this man she only hours ago loathed, Rachel hugged him and patted his back. She stood back with her hands on his shoulders. Staring into his face, she saw a good man and knew Heath must be with him. "I'll do anything I can to help ease Heath's way. Perhaps you and I should work as a team when the time comes for him to leave Strawberry."

Tom didn't try to wipe the tear which spilled down his check, replying, "Thanks, Rachel. I'm sure your assistance will be of great comfort to him".

They reviewed the plans Tom had formulated. Rachel was impressed with his ability to quickly act in this uncomfortable, unusual, and distressing situation. Finally they said goodbye.

"Please hurry, Thomas. Leah is fighting but I don't think she has much strength left."

He shook his head and turned his horse away from town. Tom used the ride to the Duncan ranch to clear his mind for the tasks before him. As he rode up the long approach to the house, he watched a young man training a cutting horse. The boy was small but easily commanded the large beast.

Someone needed to remind his son that he was only twelve. There wasn't a job he'd watched Heath tackle which many full-grown men could have completed as well. How he longed to know his boy.

Tom handed the reins off to the groom. Without hesitation, he approached the Duncan's front door. As he knocked, he reviewed this part of his plan. If he was going to assist Heath with the transformation between life in Strawberry and life in Stockton ... He needed to gather all the information regarding Heath he could.

"Hello, Mr Duncan. My name is Thomas Barkley and I'm visiting here from my ranch in Stockton."

He took the hand as it was offered and began another odyssey into the many revelations people who knew Heath could provide about his young life. Tom knew he was gaining an unfair advantage. He was beginning to know Heath but Heath didn't know him. He would take care of that very soon. Tom was more than disappointed he'd missed seeing Heath at the livery. When he arrived back at the hotel from the Duncan's ranch, a telegram from the attorney's office in San Francisco was waiting for him. He thought about briefly seeing Heath but then remembered Leah's frail state and hurried to the bank. It took some organizing but he finally had things set.

Hannah rushed off to the livery with Heath's dinner so he wouldn't come home. Rachel, the sheriff of Strawberry, and the head of the local bank all joined Tom by Leah's sick bed. If it was possible, she looked paler in the early evening light. Rachel and Hannah propped her up on a mound of pillows upset when she once again refused her pain medication. Although full of guilt, Tom suggested, for now, Leah was right and needed to be in full control of her mind.

Tom sat down on the edge of the bed. While trying to control his emotions, gazing into Leah's ever sincere eyes, Tom took her hands and began to explain his plan.

"Leah, my attorney has informed me of the laws regarding Heath parentage in the state of California. For Heath to legally use my name and claim his birthright, he only need be accepted into my home with my public acknowledgment of being his father. Before these witnesses I do hereby state that your son, Heath, is my natural child." : Tom glanced around and watched for the nods from the two men acting as witnesses.

"I've thought this over and decided to be absolutely sure, as my lawyer also advised, of preventing Matt Simmons or anyone else from ever laying claim to our Heath. Therefore, after your death we need to have some things written down. I've asked Mr Anderson from the bank and Sheriff Frewellyn to be here as witnesses to this meeting and some paperwork I'd like them to agree to sign. Do you agree with my plan so far?"

The tiny woman held his gaze while managing a weak smile as she nodded her comprehension of his words. He patted her hand, raised it to his lips, and gave her hand a light kiss before wiping tears from his eyes.

"Mr Anderson's secretary graciously made up these papers. I'll read them for you before we sign them.

"I, LEAH THOMSON, being of sound mind do declare to all persons the following: HEATH MORGAN THOMSON is my son through natural birth. His birth father, previously undeclared on his birth certificate, is THOMAS BARKLEY of Stockton, California. In the event of my death, I forward guardianship of our son, HEATH MORGAN THOMSON, to THOMAS BARKLEY of Stockton, California. THOMAS BARKLEY, or his designate, shall be the only guardian of HEATH MORGAN THOMSON until the time of his eighteenth birthday. "We'll both sign it plus Mr Anderson and the sheriff will be witnesses. Mine is pretty much the same and will require everyone's signature also. It declares Heath as my natural son with full rights as an heir to my estate. It also declares he will be known as HEATH MORGAN THOMSON BARKLEY from this day forward. After we both sign these, I'll take them back to Stockton and lock them in my safe. If anyone, ever, attempts to remove Heath from my home, my attorney feels these, plus the fact Heath will be living with me, will prevent that from happening. " Rachel helped Leah read through each piece of paper one more time. They all watched as the frail woman struggled to sit up and place her signature and initials in the appropriate spaces. Tom stayed beside her and signed next. The witnesses adjourned from her bedside to the nearest table to read and sign the papers.

While the men were signing, Tom leaned over and kissed Leah's forehead. Her hands were trembling in his own and tears spilled from her eyes.

He whispered, "These papers won't ever be needed, Leah. No one, no one, will ever lay a hand on our boy. I promise you he'll receive a fine education, abundant home, and anything else he will ever need" . The sheriff walked over and returned the papers to Tom. He stood to shake the men's hands and Rachel walked them to the door. Before she returned, he bent low towards the exhausted woman he once loved and now realized he still cared for deeply. This was more important than any paper... Tom had promises to make.

"Leah, I promise you Heath will be loved. I'll do whatever is necessary to provide him the life he so richly deserves. Thank you ..."

Tom fell to his knees and buried his face in her lap. Leah stroked his hair. Rachel tried to make herself busy in the kitchen while preparing Leah's pain medication.

Tom regained control and lifted his eyes to meet her gaze, he whispered, "Thank you for this good, strong, and brave son. Although I will forever wish you had come to me, I'll never be able to thank you for birthing him, loving him, and guiding him this far" . Tom felt himself slipping emotionally again which wouldn't help Leah. He stood and nodded for Rachel to bring over her medicine. Rachel sat with Leah and Tom paced and talked.

"In the morning, I'm heading back to Stockton. I'm going to leave the colts here so I can make better time. If the weather holds, I'll be home by early afternoon. "I'll speak to Victoria and the children and start back here the following morning. Luckily, Jarrod should be home today or tomorrow from school so he'll be there too. I hope some of them will ride back with me to meet you and Heath."

Leah finished her medication and the stress of the meeting had worn her completely. Rachel took the cup back to the kitchen and Leah patted the bed indicating she wanted Tom to sit beside her. They sat quietly until well after dark.

Tom began to think about getting back to the hotel since Leah appeared to be sleeping. For an instant, he moved his gaze from his son's mother and found Hannah and Rachel sitting nearby. Leah sensed the change and opened her eyes.

She smiled and softly spoke, "You shouldn't thank me. I've had a wonderful life. I've been lucky. Sometimes I marvel, I've been the proud mother of Heath Morgan Thomson ... Barkley. That's more than enough happiness for one lifetime.

"Take care of him. Heath needs to learn how to be a boy. Life has been very hard on him. He's going to be very angry ... And lost. Love him, Tom. Always remember Heath is a good person down deep inside."

Leah's eyes drifted open and shut. She fought the darkness but wasn't winning. Once more, Tom kissed her forehead softly then got up and walked through the door. He sat on the front porch stoop trying to regain control of his emotions. Shaking his head, he gazed around at the deplorable surroundings while hearing her words "I've been lucky".

As he walked back to the hotel he remembered the night Heath was conceived. Tom knew he'd probably burn in hell for all of eternity for his sin but he wasn't sorry. Leah was truly the only woman he'd ever met who he could have loved as much as he loved Victoria.

That night, thirteen years ago, if only for a brief time, he did love her. What a magnificent woman she was. Tom decided then and there to never, ever, let Heath think he'd been a mistake. No, he was the product of love and Tom was grateful to Almighty God for his existence.

After he washed up, Tom flopped onto the top of his bed back in the hotel room. Earlier, he'd glanced over to the livery but it appeared to be closed for the evening. He guessed he'd barely missed running into Heath on his way home for the night. Suddenly, there was a loud sound outside on the steps leading down to the lobby. He definitely heard a bucket being kicked and then a man, possibly Matt Simmons, began to yell in a drunken rage. He listened for a moment.

"You stupid bastard! How many times do I have to tell you not to use so much soap. It's not cheap and the hotel isn't full very much anymore."

There was no reply but suddenly he heard a slap. Then more horrid sounds of someone's flesh being under attack. He rushed out and followed the noises.

Tom's entire body became full of rage when he saw Matt Simmons hit Heath. The hotel manager had the young boy pinned against the wall on the stair landing below. Water, soap, and scrub brushes cascaded down towards the lobby. Matt raised his hand for another blow and Heath closed his eyes while bracing himself.

"If you're mother wasn't dying ..."

Matt Simmons never knew what hit him. There was a tug on his shoulder and when he wheeled around his face exploded from the impact of a hard fist. He slid down the wall landing by Heath's feet. Heath opened his eyes and saw the man from the livery pulling his uncle to his feet. Simmons put his hand up, signaling for Tom to stop, saying, "This is none of your business, Mr Barkley. This dumb kid never scrubs the steps down right, that's all. If you want, I won't hit him no more ... I just won't give him his nickel for the job".

Tom shook Simmons till he heard his teeth rattle. Now was his chance to set Simmons straight. Fury prevented him from taking the time to consider the entire situation.

"Simmons! If you ever, EVER, lay another hand on my boy, I'll kill you. He's not going to be scrubbing anymore floors around here. In fact, if you contact him again, I'll bring you up on charges. Do you understand me?"

Matt gasped for air, then replied, "Ya, Tom. Now, take your bastard and get the hell out of my place".

Heath stood frozen forgetting about his bruised face while blood dripped from his nose onto his shirt. Had he heard what he thought he did? Tom let Simmons fall back to the floor. Then he looked at his son's stunned face, sharply he ordered, "Stay put. I'll be right back".

Tom ran up the steps and quickly threw his things into his saddlebags. He grabbed his coat and headed back for Heath. As he raced down the steps, he hooked Heath's arm and pulled the boy down to the lobby. He threw some money on the desk and didn't stop until they were outside.

Heath stared at the man then dropped his gaze to his feet. Pulling at his shirt sleeve, he was still confused and overwhelmed.

"Heath ..." Tom reached out to touch his swollen eye but the boy took off down the street with his dog in hot pursuit. Tom didn't know Strawberry well enough to chase Heath in the dark. So he planted himself on Leah's front porch after telling the women what had transpired. Heath might stay out all night but he knew he'd come see his mother before going to open the livery. Rachel handed him some coffee and he prepared to wait the boy out.

"Why was Heath there tonight?"

Rachel pulled her shawl around her shoulders and tried to breath in heat from her coffee cup before answering.

"Heath's been working more and more at the hotel. There simply isn't anything else available. Each day more people pack up and leave Strawberry."

"But why was he there tonight?"

"On Monday and Thursdays Heath scrubs the hall floors and stairs at the hotel. He's been doing it for more than a year. Honestly, with all the excitement, I forgot to warn you he might be there."

Tom stared into his cup. They sat quietly for a moment.

"Perhaps ... Perhaps it's better."

Rachel reached over and patted Tom's shoulder before she continued.

"We don't have much time. Leah was hanging on for your arrival and now I fear she'll leave us. So young, so terribly young ..."

Rachel began to cry softly but refused comfort when Tom reached out to her. "Tom, Heath needed to know you are his father. I think it is best he's got the information flying around in his head tonight. Hopefully, he can talk to his mother while you are in Stockton. It might help in the long run."

Of course she was right. But Tom couldn't forget the hurt look in Heath's eyes before he ran away. Hurt Tom put there. Rachel eventually said her farewells and left Leah under Hannah's gentle hand for the night. Tom dozed on and off while hoping to see his boy wander down the street with his dog by his side. Suddenly, he did see something but had to lean forward to see in the moonless night.

"What are YOU doing here?"

"Waiting for you?"

The hostile tone in Heath's voice made his dog stare at Tom and begin to form a rattling growl in the back of her throat.

Tom quickly changed the subject, "What's your dog's name, Heath?".

Heath's face smoothed out, obviously Tom picked a good subject, then he quietly patted the dog saying, "Nicki. I got her from ma at Christmas when I was five".

"Nicki for Saint Nick?"

"Ya," Heath laughed softly, "Not original but it fits her".

The boy came through the gate and sat on the steps in front of Tom's feet. They listened to the night for a moment.

"Is what you said to Uncle Matt true?"

"Yes. Heath I'm your father and I'm so very proud to finally know about you." Heath whirled around to face Tom.

"You mean you didn't know about me? I mean ... You didn't leave us?"

Tom slid down on the step next to Heath and put an arm around the exhausted child's shoulder. "No, I didn't know about you and I would never have left you if I did. Your mother wrote for me to come and I did. I didn't know about you until I arrived in Strawberry."

"Life can be a kicker sometimes."

"What do you mean, son?"

"I mean ... Here you are just stopping in for a visit and next thing you know you've got a kid!"

"It's not like that. But it doesn't matter, I'm so glad you're mine."

Heath pulled away and stared at Tom.

"Oh sure you are!"

Tom didn't try to defend his feelings. Instead he stood to face Heath. He returned a hand to the boy's shoulder.

"I am. And when your ma passes ..."

Heath didn't let him finish his statement. He pulled away with the fire of anger in his eyes.

"My ma is going to get better. You just wait and see. I'm taking care of her." "Heath?" Tom stepped to the boy still trying to touch him. "No," he shrugged his shoulder and stepped further away, "And if you are going to talk like that ... Why you can leave. We don't need you. We're doing fine just like we always have".

Tom dropped his head and thought about his words carefully.

"Okay, Heath," Tom took a deep breath, "I won't talk about your mother's illness any more. But I am glad to meet you and I hope we can be friends".

Heath took the hand Tom offered and put up little resistance when he was pulled into a bear hug. Life had left this boy of his trying so hard to be a man so tired, Tom could feel the ache of exhaustion when he held him. For an brief instant, Tom thought he felt Heath relax and let his father be the strong one. It didn't last.

"I've gotta get inside. Ma always likes to see me before I go for the day."

"Okay, son. I'll wait here and walk to the livery with you."

Heath's eyes narrowed. There was distrust in his voice when he said, "Why? You going somewhere?".

"Yes."

Heath turned for the door but Tom caught him and turned him around.

"I need to go home to Stockton and tell my family about you and your mother. But I'll be back late tomorrow."

Heath's eyes dropped and he shrunk from Tom's grasp, saying, "Sure ya will".

"I will."

Heath laughed, then added, "Some day this turned out to be. I find out I've got a father and he leaves right away".

Tom tightened his grip on the boy, sternly he said, "Heath, I'm coming back. I'll talk to my wife and your brothers and sister ... Then I WILL be back".

Heath spoke to his boots, "Ya, like you'll say, 'My trip was fine and I also found this bastard of mine.' Good-bye, Mr Barkley. I'm not that stupid!".

Tom grabbed Heath's face ignoring the grimace and holding tight. He spoke through clenched teeth, "Heath Morgan Thomson BARKLEY, I'm your father and I will be back".

Heath eyes were glassy as his father's eyes freely spilled tears. When Tom lessened his grip on the boy's face, he pulled away and ran inside. Tom slumped down on the stairs waiting to walk Heath to the livery. This wasn't going to be easy. His actions, or more his lack of self-control, had lead to so much heartache. Closing his eyes, he imagined his beloved family pulling from him as Heath did. What if he lost them all? This was going to be a very, very long day indeed.

Tom's backside ached but he didn't dare slow up. The ranch wasn't too much further and he longed to see Victoria and the children. They'd be surprised since he hadn't wired ahead and he would have to savor the welcome. There was no doubt the rest of his homecoming could be quite rocky.

They were close enough now to let his horse concentrate on heading for the barn and a large reward of oats. Tom, on the other hand, let his mind go back to his predawn exit from Strawberry. He'd briefly drifted off on Leah's front porch. When he woke, he peeked inside. Leah was asleep holding Hannah's hand. Hannah was resting in the overstuffed chair but Heath was no where to be seen. Checking his pocket watch, he realized Health was already at work in the livery.

Tom ran through town and stopped when he rounded the corner to the main street. There, in the livery's front corral stood his horse. The large beast had been fully cared for and prepared for his trip. The saddle was even freshly shined. The colts were tethered near by. Seemed Heath didn't think he even needed to stop inside.

"Thanks, son. I'll see you late tomorrow."

Tom stared into the stall watching Heath ignore him while feverishly cleaning. Heath never missed a beat, looked up, or replied. Tom smiled recognizing the Barkley pride shining bright in Mr Corley's stable.

He walked back out front after putting some bills under a stone on the counter. The sky promised another hot one but it didn't matter, he needed to push to make Stockton before dinner. After walking his horse and the colts out of the corral, he called Heath outside.

Heath stood by his father's boot staring at the ground. Tom fought off the temptation to rustle his hair knowing Heath would pull away.

"Here ..." : Heath looked up. Tom handed him the lead to the colts. Ignoring the shocked look on his son's face, Tom admitted, "You better watch them for me. I'll make better time to Stockton on my own."

With that Tom gave into his desires and tousled Heath's blond hair before spirring his horse and riding for home. He'd learned quite a bit about his son in the time he'd been in Strawberry. Heath wasn't dumb, in fact, he was frightenly intelligent. Leaving those colts was Tom's way of assuring the boy he'd be back. They were worth a pretty penny and Heath would know he'd never leave them and not return.

Someone rustled across the drive waving their arms and yelling. He wasn't sure at first but then Nick's booming voice rode across the hot air to him. Tom galloped home.

The children gave him little room to sit on the couch. Jarrod smiled from his chair by his mother watching his two younger siblings try to crush their father with their delight. Tom made up some stories about his horse buying venture but as he spoke his eyes meet Victoria. Yes, he may pull off a story or two with his children but never this woman. She'd seen inside his soul from the day he'd met her. Today was no different.

"Okay, you two. Go finish your chores."

"Ah, mother?"

"Audra ... None of that. Your father needs some time to freshen up before dinner. Then we can all talk some more."

Nick and Audra looked to Tom for help, he laughed, "Go on now. You heard your mother".

They left slowly and Tom stood to shake Jarrod's hand once more.

"It's so good to have you home, son. I guess your mother and I will never get used to your being away. School end on a good note?"

"Yes, sir. I've got a few things I'd like to get done this summer but I can wait and talk to you later. Mother has gone to draw your bath ... You don't want to get in trouble either."

They laughed and Jarrod went back outside. Tom stood at the bottom of the stairs trying to collect his thoughts. He and Victoria would have almost an hour before the children would be due back in to clean up for dinner. Now was the time.

He entered their bedroom and found his saddlebag already unpacked. Victoria came in from the bath with her purposeful walk which made her skirts swish in the most wonderful way. Tom was facing the wall putting his wallet on top of the dresser but he knew she was directly behind him.

"Your bath is perfect, if you hurry!"

Tom turned around and reached for her. One look into his eyes and Victoria knew she was in trouble. She pulled away and walked to the window. Audra was chasing a stray chicken back towards the coop. Must have left the door ajar, again!

"Better just tell me, Tom. My imagination is far worse than anything you could possibly say. I've known something was wrong since before you left. I'm not to proud to admit, I'm frightened."

Tom took a moment to close his eyes and pray for guidance. Here was the person, his lover and best friend, who meant everything to him and he was about to hurt her, deeply. : "Victoria, there isn't any easy way to tell you this. I guess I'll start from the beginning."

She instinctively knew this was going to be hard and slid down into a chair without taking her eyes from the barnyard.

"Thirteen years ago we were really struggling here. The ranch wasn't quite off the ground and the boys, well they were small yet. You and I went through a very difficult time in our marriage. Not that we ever doubted each other, I guess we'd both agree the stress of that time in our lives left our relations strained.

"I headed off to Strawberry to check out the mines. Little did I know it would be six long months before I came back home. During that time, I was beaten and robbed outside a saloon. When I woke up, I was being cared for by a beautiful young woman with the assistance of her two friends.

"My recovery was slow and I don't recall much about the first week I was there with Leah. After that, I worked hard to gain my strength and get back to the task which sent me to Strawberry. Problem was I enjoyed Leah's company and used her as a distraction from the hard times we were enduring. It was horribly wrong and I'll never forgive myself but this is the truth.

"I'm not sure when it happened but before I left I realized I had very strong feelings for Leah. There will never be any excuse but I gave in to my desires and consummated our relationship. When I did, it was like a bolt of lightening. All I could think about was you and how much I loved you, our boys, and the life we were building here.

"I left. Wrote Leah a letter explaining that I was a married man and loved my wife. Wished her all the best and high-tailed out of there as fast as I could. Shortly after I got back I sold everything in Strawberry and hoped never to return."

Tom took a moment and watched Victoria. She sat poker straight clutching the chair arms while staring out the window. He figured he might as well try to choke the rest out.

"A few weeks ago, I received a letter from Leah. She asked me to come to Strawberry but said she'd understand if I didn't show or answer her. For some reason, I knew in my heart I had to go.

"What I found in Strawberry made me glad of my decision. Most of what I found anyway. The town is dying and poor as can be. Sadly, Leah is dying of the cancer.

"But, Victoria, I also found a son, Heath. The boy is twelve and I have no doubt what-so-ever he is mine. Leah asked me to give him a home once she's gone and I agreed. Now I'm here to try and figure out ..."

Victoria never moved, coldly she said, "Take your bath, Tom. I need time to think".

He walked over to touch her shoulder but felt her disdain and stopped. Turning away, he left to soak in the tub. When she heard him get into the water, Victoria put her head down on the window sill and cried. She wasn't surprised by Tom's revelation, she'd sensed his infidelity when he returned from Strawberry. But it was fact now and she needed to think.

A child? My God, Tom had a child with another woman. He hadn't said it but she knew he wanted to bring this boy into their home. What was she going to do?

Tom slid down under the water to rinse his hair. When he sat back up, a hand slapped him hard across his wet face.

"Thomas Barkley, I'm so angry with you."

He sat motionless. Victoria's eyes were swollen and red. She stood over him with her hands on her hips. There was nothing for him to say.

She took a few breaths and sat on the edge of the tub. The children pounded into the foyer and Silas mentioned them bathing before dinner. Luckily she heard Jarrod, the ever perceptive one, mention their father was resting and head them to the billiard room instead. They had time but not much.

"I remember that time well. We'd just lost another baby and I was terribly unhappy as were you. I was happy when you said you needed to go away for a while. Later, I missed you so much. When you did come home, so strange and distant, I knew you'd been with someone else though we never spoke of it."

Tom reached for her hand but she stood up and moved away from him.

"Have their been others?"

"No! Never! Victoria ..."

She held up a hand. He instantly followed her command and fell silent. Then he stood up and exited the tub grabbing the large towel to dry himself. She watched emotionless. When he was dry, Tom followed Victoria back to their bedroom. He sat on the bed and waited but she threw his clothes at him and told him to dress before the children came upstairs.

"Tom, I'm not sure if I'll ever forgive you. I'm hurt but not as hurt as you may have feared because I grieved over this matter thirteen years ago and decided I wanted to stay. This family is what is important to me ... Frankly, our marriage is secondary, especially now."

Tom finished dressing and stood across from his wife.

"The presence of the boy could threaten this family, Tom. You do realize that?" "Yes, I do. But Heath is mine and there's no getting around that. What do you want me to do?"

For the first time in his presence Victoria began to cry. He reached to touch her but she rushed away.

"I want you to go back thirteen years and undo the damage you've done. I want you to ride back through the gates of this ranch full of good news. I want ..."

"What?"

"I want to hate you," she spun around to face him, "But I can't."

Finally, she melted into his arms and they both shed tears. Their marriage was strong. Much stronger than it had been thirteen years before. If he had admitted being with Leah when he returned from Strawberry, they wouldn't have endured the blow. But time had bonded them and made one functionless without the other. It would be a long time before the strain between them would mend but Tom prayed a prayer of thanksgiving knowing his marriage was intact.

Victoria broke away and sat on the end of the bed, asking, "Tell me more about Heath?".

"He's lived a hard life. He and his mother ..."

She interrupted, "Leah, what?".

"Leah Thomson. The two of them haven't been treated well as you can imagine. She has two close friends, Rachel and Hannah, but other than that they have no one. But, Victoria, when you see him ... He's special just as our children are special."