Three days later, Hiriam stopped the rented buggy in front of the Barkley mansion and climbed down. Silas directed the older Thomson to the barn. Hiriam’s ears picked up the raised voices between the two brothers, some of the ranch crew quickly left the barn making themselves scarce.

Walking over, Hiriam leaned against the frame of the large door. Heath stood hands clenched to the side and Nick was leaning forward, almost nose to nose with the blonde.

“When you can pick up a saddle without wincing in pain and ripping out your stitches, Heath, then you can ride out with us!” growled Nick angrily. “Until then, you work around the ranch.”

“I am perfectly capable of taking care of myself.” stated Heath firmly yanking the blanket out of his brother’s hand. “I did it for a lot of years before I came here.”

“YOU WANT TO RIP OUT YOUR STITCHES AGAIN! BE MY GUEST!” shouted Nick stepping away and turning back suddenly. “You’re a fool Heath if you think beating yourself down is gonna take away the pain in your heart. You’re the only one who can do that!”

Walking past, Nick nodded to Hiriam and left the barn. Shaking his head, Heath turned and put the blanket on Charger, his words mumbled, the tone angry. Putting a hand on the horn of the saddle laying on the ground, he lifted and dropped it back down, wincing and grabbing his right side. Grabbing the blanket off the horse, he threw it against the wall and cursed wildly.

Charger shied away nervously from his angry owner. Heath leaned his head against a post before taking a deep breath and stepping closer to calm the bay stallion. Leading the horse back into it’s stall, he said a few more quiet words to the large animal while rubbing his nose.

Hiriam picked up the saddle from the ground, placing it back on the rail of the stall and put the thrown blanket away. He put an hand on his grandson’s shoulder, surprised when the blonde grabbed him and held on tightly.

“Hi, grandfather.” whispered Heath.

Patting his back, Hiriam returned the greeting. Putting an arm over Heath’s shoulders, Hiriam walked him out of the barn. At the corral, Duke nudged Nick, turning the hazel eyes to the sight of the two leaving the barn and walking away from the ranch buildings.

Nick’s eyes reflected hope at the sight of Hiriam’s arm over his little brother’s shoulders. The blonde man had been nearly impossible to live or work with over the past three days.

Duke saw the look in Nick’s eyes and knew his probably reflected the same look of hope. Bunkhouse gossip decreed the uncharacteristic foul mood of the blonde boss had to do with a certain young lady in his life. All the crew knew to be true was what they could see with their own eyes. Whatever it was, it was eating the man up inside and they were all powerless to put a stop to it. Heath firmly rebuffed any offers of help or understanding from those close to him.

Heath allowed his grandfather to lead him away from the ranch down to the stream where they had spent a previous afternoon talking together. Hiriam sat him down under a tree and looked into the blue eyes.

“Heath, what is going on?” asked Hiriam quietly. “I saw Melinda yesterday and she looked like she hadn’t slept in days.”

Anguish flew into the blonde’s eyes and he sighed, “I didn’t mean to hurt her, grandfather. Some things just can’t be what you may want them to be, is all.”

Hiriam nodded in agreement, “Well, you know how women are. They always want more than a person’s willing to give.”

Heath’s head shot up and he snapped, “She’s not like that! Don’t talk about her that way!”

“I know Heath. I just wanted to see what your reaction would be. Now, tell me what’s going on with you and Melinda.” replied Hiriam with a smile.

The angry look in the blue eyes faded and a slight grin turned up a corner of his mouth. “Melinda’s a wonderful woman, but I can’t take the chance of endangering her or the kids cause of my past. I have too many enemies to sleep soundly.”

“I see. You’re afraid someone you arrested will come after you and find Melinda instead. Benton and Sheila were not people from your past, but still you could have been killed and left them alone.” stated Hiriam with a deep sigh. “I can understand why you must feel that way.”

“You’re the only one.” smirked Heath leaning his head against the tree. “The family doesn’t understand it at all.”

Waiting until Heath rolled his cigarette, Hiriam smiled, “I said I understand Heath. I didn’t say I agree with you.”

Staring intently into the brown eyes, Heath waited for the older man to continue.

“Regret is a horrible thing to live with Heath. Take it from me, I’ve had lots of experience with it. Don’t live your life based on fear. Grab at happiness with both hands and hold on with all the strength you have.”

The sapphire eyes lowered and a thoughtful look took over Heath’s face. Hiriam reached over and squeezed his arm, his voice low and full of love.

“Your grandmother, Leanne, was a ray of sunshine. When I first saw her, I thought she was an angel. Her eyes sparkled, her smile could light up the blackest of nights, her laughter was absolutely contagious. She was so full of life and happiness. I swear the world around us brightened each time she stepped out the door of our home. Everyday, she shared with others her love and compassion.”

Heath saw the brown eyes fill with tears and squeezed his grandfather’s hand. Hiriam smiled slightly, happy for the support to continue his walk down memory lane.

“I always felt as though I should have died in her place. She was taken from this world too early and given a place high in the heavens where she could watch over everyone on this earth. If there’s one thought I want to leave with you to think on it would be this Heath.”

Staring into the sapphire eyes, Hiriam stated firmly. “Love with a woman who compliments your heart and soul is the greatest love a man could ever receive.”

“It took me a long time to realize that if I never had the chance to receive love from a special person like your grandmother, I would’ve been the lesser man for it. If I hadn’t taken the chance to grab at that moment of happiness, I would have regretted it for the rest of my life. Don’t give up a chance to have love, not everyone finds it in their lifetime. Don’t put off til tomorrow what you can do today. No one lives forever and you should live your life as if it were your last day on earth.”

“I bet if you ask your Mother, she’d say she’s happy to have had the love of your Father for the amount of time she did.” suggested Hiriam seeing a question form in the sapphire eyes.

“Has it ever bothered you I call her Mother?” asked Heath quietly.

Hiriam admitted, “At first, it did. But the more time I spent with your family, I realized, Victoria is as much your Mother as Leah surely was. It is a rare woman who’d love unconditionally as she does. You are blessed to have the love of two mothers in your lifetime, Heath.”

Heath sighed, “Yes, I am. Are you leaving grandfather?”

“Yes, but I will be back.” stated Hiriam. “I have decided to sell my business and move out here. Unfortunately, not all of the details can be handled by telegrams.”

“I’m glad, grandfather. I like having you near.” smiled Heath. “When will you be leaving?”

“Tomorrow. I have to be back by the end of next month for Benton’s trial.” stated Hiriam. “Would you like to travel with me?”

Shaking his head, Heath replied, “Thanks but I’d rather stay here, grandfather.”

“Heath, promise me you’ll think about what I’ve said today. Only you can decide if you’re able to get past your inner demons and grab at your chance of happiness.”

Pulling the blonde to his feet, Hiriam held onto his shoulders, “Melinda’s a wonderful woman. If you give yourself the chance, you’ll find an abundance of happiness and joy with her.”

Nodding, Heath put his arm over the older man’s shoulders and they walked back to the ranch house. After spending the morning together, Heath stood watching from the front steps as he drove the rented buggy back to Stockton.

Mrs. Beatrice Collins watched her young worker rip out a seam for the fourth time. Her wise old eyes were in quiet contemplation of the beautiful young woman she’d come to hold dear to her heart.

Melinda was an excellent seamstress, her work the best she’d ever seen. Hiring the young lady had been the best thing she’d ever done. She was an asset to her business, gaining Mrs. Collins many returning customers by her dedication and finished product.

For several days now, something had been bothering the normally conscientious young woman, her mind was obviously not on her work. Melinda had to take her work home to complete it by the deadline given to their customers.

“Melinda, is everything okay?” inquired Beatrice.

Looking up, Melinda gave her employer a small smile, “I’m sorry, Mrs. Collins. I’m having a small problem, but I’ll have the dress completed in time.”

Reaching over, Beatrice patted the small hands and smiled, “I’m not worried about the dress, dear. I’m worried about you. Are the children okay?”

“They’re fine. Thank you for asking.” assured Melinda, any further conversation ceased by the ringing bell in the forward area of the shop announcing an arrival of a customer. Beatrice heaved herself out of the chair making her way to the front of the store.

Melinda shook her head to clear her thoughts of Heath. She’d gone over the time spent with him, unable to come up with the reason for him pulling away. He hadn’t said anything, she’d seen it in his eyes and recognized it in his actions over the past week.

She knew he loved her, but why would be pull away. Questions running through her mind kept her from sleeping. ‘Was it her?’ ‘Was it the children?’ ‘Was she asking too much from him when she declared her love for him?’ ‘Had she lost him forever?’

At a call from Mrs. Collins, Melinda put the dress she was working on to the side and walked to the front area of the store. Stopping at the counter, her hands gripped the edge of the wooden shelf, supporting her shaking knees.

“Mother!” exclaimed Melinda, her green eyes wide in her pale face.

The memories flew across Melinda’s mind while her eyes stared into the face of her Mother. Years of stringent rules, perfect manners, perfect behavior and stymied dreams came rushing back like the water in a flash flood.

She felt an odd constriction in her chest, her stomach burned and she stepped back from the counter. The woman before her lived with the man, who when she was a child with one look, could send a chill down her spine. She’d lived in fear of her father, hungering for the love he withheld. Fear of not performing in school well enough, fear of not being the perfect daughter, fear of being a blight in his perfect styled professional life.

He used fear to control his family. He didn’t need a physical weapon of metal, such as iron or steel, he used mental weapons faster and quicker. The damage inflicted by mental weapons went deep into a person and couldn’t be seen by the naked eye.

Children no matter how old they get still look to their parents for approval or disapproval. Melinda finally stopped looking to them and taken a giant step towards breaking out of her prison when Mike Rankin smiled at her. Her husband, though not formally educated, had taken the girl from the cocoon and freed a delicate butterfly.

He never understood how a man could treat his family as her father did. The treatment endured during Melinda’s childhood she vowed would never be the same for her children.

“What do you want?” asked Melinda, her voice shaking uncontrollably, matching the movements of her hands.

Grace Fields’ green eyes welled with tears at the sight of her beautiful daughter, torn from her life by her husband’s decree. Her voice trembled and tears spilled out onto her cheeks.

“Mellie, I’ve missed you so much and I love you.” whispered Grace.

Grace felt her feet moving and went around the counter. Standing in front of her shocked daughter, she held a shaky hand to the soft skin and cried openly while she pulled the stunned girl into her arms.

“Does Father know you’re here?” asked Melinda stepping out of her mother’s hold and looking around nervously.

Wiping her eyes, Grace shook her head negatively. Taking a hold of her daughter’s hand, she closed her eyes briefly and then looked into her girl’s eyes, “Your Father had a heart attack, Melinda. He passed away three weeks ago.”

Melinda’s hand flew to her mouth, the gasp heard throughout the room. “Mother, I didn’t know.”

Grace caressed her daughter’s cheek, “I could have sent a wire but I wanted to tell you in person. I’m sorry I wasn’t here sooner, but it took me two weeks after his death to realize he couldn’t tell me what to do anymore, how to live or who to love. It’s ironic, even in death he controlled me for two weeks afterwards.”

Grasping her daughter’s hands in hers, the emerald eyes were pleading. “Melinda, I want to be part of your life, please forgive me for not being strong enough to go against your Father in the past. I love you. I hope you can find it in your heart to forgive me and give me another chance.”

Melinda heard the words and saw the pleading in the green eyes. Her emotions already in turmoil were sent spiraling out of control from the news of her Father’s death and her Mother’s sudden appearance, her mind strived to sort through the information it was bombarded with. The room started spinning and the sound of waves crashed in her ears.

Victoria entered the doorway of the dress shop and saw Melinda fall to the floor when she fainted. Rushing over, she stared at the woman holding Melinda’s hand and knew instantly who she was.

“I’ll get Dr. Merar.” informed Victoria to Mrs. Collins before rushing out the door.

Scotty sat in the surrey and jumped up as the matriarch of the family rushed out the door. “Melinda’s fainted, Scotty. Get Dr. Merar!”

“Yes, Mrs. Barkley!” shouted Scotty running down the street and bursting into the doctor’s office.

The sound of a galloping horse brought Heath away from the corral where Duke was working with a newly broken horse. Billy Peterson brought his horse to a stop in front of the former marshal.

“Heath, Mrs. Rankin was taken to Dr. Merar’s. She..” stated Billy, his eyes widening when he was pulled quickly from the saddle of his horse. Laying on the ground, he lifted his head and stared at the man galloping away on his horse.

Duke rushed over and helped the young deputy to his feet. “You okay, Billy?”

“He stole my horse again!” groaned Billy knocking the dust off his clothes.

“No, he just borrowed your horse, Billy.” smirked Duke with a slight shake of his head. “What’s the matter with Mrs. Rankin? Is she okay?”

Gesturing to the cloud of dust settling over the ranch yard, Billy stated, “Scotty said she fainted and asked that I come out to tell Heath, but he didn’t give me a chance to explain! I didn’t even see his hands move before I felt the ground on my backside!”

Chuckling and clapping the irritated young deputy on the back, Duke grinned widely, “Com’on I’ll get you a horse to ride back to town on.”

Howard jumped at the sound of the slamming door and running feet. Heath flew into the room, his face panic stricken and he grabbed the physician by the shoulders.

“Where is she? Is she okay?” demanded Heath, his blue eyes wide with fright.

The startled physician’s mind took a moment to get over the unexpected arrival of his harried visitor, his thoughts gathered themselves quickly as he realized who Heath was asking after.

“She’s fine, Heath.” assured Howard patiently. “Melinda just fainted. She’s at home.”

The diagnosis worked it’s way into the cavities of the blonde’s brain, he slowly nodded and released his firm grip on the family physician. Victoria watched from the doorway as the fear released itself from her son’s body leaving him quivering.

Heath patted Howard on the shoulder and sank into the nearest chair, his legs unable to hold his body weight. Leaning forward with his elbows on his knees, Heath held his head in his hands.

Victoria motioned for Howard to leave, waiting until her old friend left the room and closed the door. Walking over, she knelt in front of Heath and pulled his hands away from his face.

The tortured look in the blue eyes swimming with tears stirred concern and anger within her. Concern over the deep emotion Heath held for Melinda, emotion he was fighting and causing his future happiness to be in danger. Anger for the stubbornness in the man who seemed to always put others before himself. The fear created in him from a life he should never have had to live.

Pulling his head to her shoulder, she wrapped her arms around him and rubbed his back. Heath couldn’t control the tears which left his eyes or the trembling of his body. The wild ride into town had his mind running with all sorts of horrors as to what he would find when he arrived. The thought of Melinda hurt caused him physical pain as much as emotional.

“Heath, why don’t you take the chance?” whispered Victoria after the tears subsided.

Staring into the ocean eyes, she stated quietly. “You can’t run from it, sweetheart and it’s tearing you apart.”

Heath sighed and mumbled, “I’ve never been so afraid in my life, Mother. I kept thinking she’d die without knowing or worse thinking I don’t love her.”

Holding his face in her hands, she wiped his tears off his cheeks with her thumbs. Her gray eyes fraught with love.

“Don’t fight it, Heath. Can’t you see, you were meant to be together? When you’re apart, it’s as if you are both missing something. When you’re together, you’re whole.”

Closing his eyes, Heath took a shaky deep breath and nodded, “I’m sorry for taking it out on you and the rest of the family. I know I’ve been a bit disagreeable lately.”

Chuckling, Victoria smiled into the blue eyes, “For a while I thought I had two Nicks as my sons instead of one.”

Smirking, Heath kissed the top of her silver hair and pulled her into another embrace, “Thank you, Mother.”

Breaking the hug, Victoria held out her hand and smiled, “I’m guessing there’s a very special young woman who would benefit very much from a visit right now.”

Taking hold of her hand, Heath stood up and held it as they walked outside into the sunshine. Stopping suddenly on the boardwalk, Heath groaned outloud.

“Billy’s gonna be mad at me!”

Puzzled, Victoria asked, “Why would he be mad?”

Shaking his head, Heath pointed to the mare tied to the hitching rail, “I stole his horse again!”

Laughing, Victoria smiled and pushed Heath in the direction of Melinda’s house, “I’ll ask Billy not to press charges against you.”

Kissing her cheek, Heath whispered, “Thank you, Mother.”

Giving the diminutive woman one last hug, Heath headed towards the small white house. Standing at the gate of the fence which surrounded the property, Heath slowly stepped through the opening, walked up the small flower bordered pathway and climbed the two steps of the porch.

Taking off his hat, he ran his fingers through his blonde locks and brushed the dust off his clothes. Reaching up, he knocked and stood hat in hand until the door opened.

Grace Fields opened the door and looked at the man before her. “May I help you?”

Heath stared into the emerald eyes, his blue eyes questioning and he cleared his throat, “Is Melinda home, ma’am?”

Grace nodded hesitantly, “Yes, however she is resting right now. I’m her mother, Grace Fields.”

“Heath Thomson, ma’am.” stated Heath offering a hand in greeting. “Mrs. Fields, is Melinda okay?”

“Yes, she’s fine. Just tired.” smiled Grace. “Perhaps you’d like to come back another time Mr. Thomson when Melinda is feeling better.”

Heath shifted his feet slightly and turned at the shouted greeting. “Mr. Heath! Mr. Heath!”

Kneeling, he grinned, “Timmy, how’s my deputy?”

Timmy wrapped his arms around the strong neck and shook his head, “Mr. Heath, I’s sorry but I can’t be a deputy. Don’t be mad.”

Heath titled his head slightly and looked into the brown eyes, “I’m not mad, Timmy. If you’re not gonna be a deputy, what are you gonna do?”

“A rancher.” stated Timmy firmly. “Like you and Mr. Nick.”

Chuckling, Heath grinned, “Sounds good to me.”

Helen Merar smiled and set Megan down on the ground, the young toddler’s feet took off running and she was encased in a strong armed hug. Her small face placing a kiss on the tanned face. “Mr. Heaf.”

Heath chuckled at her imitation of Timmy’s words and rubbed her nose with his eliciting a giggle out of the little girl.

“Afternoon, Mrs. Merar.” stated Heath standing with Megan in his arms. “Did you meet Mrs. Fields?”

“Yes, I did.” said Helen. “I just brought the children home from the Collins’ for Melinda, Heath. I really have to get back to help Howard.”

Waving goodbye, Heath set Megan down on the porch and tousled Timmy’s hair. The kids stared up at the unknown woman in the doorway.

“Hi, Timmy and Megan. I’m your grandmother.” stated Grace softly. “I came all the way from Sacramento to see you.”

Timmy shook the hand she held out and looked up, his face scrunched with confusion, “How come you didn’t come before, grandma? Sacramento’s not that far.”

Grace turned crimson, “I’m here now, Timmy.”

Satisfied for the moment, Timmy turned back towards his hero. “Mr. Heath, are you spending the day with us?”

“No, Timmy. Your mommy is resting.” sighed Heath. “I’ll come back when she’s awake, okay?”

“Mr. Heath, we haven’t seen you forever.” pouted Timmy pulling on his hand. “Mommy will want to see you, too.”

“Yes, mommy would.”

The soft spoken words floated out the door and snapping his head up, Heath’s eyes took in the pale complexion of the woman he loved, enhanced by the white blouse she was wearing.

“Mother, would you take Timmy and Megan inside for me?” asked Melinda.

Grace took the hands of the children and nodded, “Nice to meet you, Mr. Thomson.”

“Likewise, ma’am.” mumbled Heath, his blue eyes only seeing the woman before him, his hand absently patted Timmy on the back when he was lead away.

When the door closed behind the departing three, Heath held out his hand and his breath caught in his throat when Melinda stood looking at it, her body not moving, her eyes deep in thought.

The world stopped spinning on its axis, the sun stopped shining, the wind stopped blowing and all forms of life were held in a suspended moment of time. Nothing moved, nothing breathed and no sound could be heard while the green eyes stayed deep in thought.

Heath felt the ground beneath him begin to crumble, his heart started to crack as the time crept by second after second. Slowly, tentatively, a small hand reached out towards his. A surge of electric current rushed up both arms when their palms touched lightly and Heath wound his fingers around her hand.

“Mel.” whispered Heath, his eyes showering her with love. Leading her down the porch, he sat her on the steps and knelt down in front of her.

Taking both of her hands in his, Heath gazed into her green, pained eyes and stated softly, “I’m sorry, Mel for hurting you. It’s the last thing in the world I vowed to myself I would do, but I ending up doing it anyway.”

“Why, Heath?” queried Melinda, her eyes beseeching the answer she needed from the blonde who held her dreams. “Is it me? The children? Why?”

“It wasn’t cause of you or the children. It was me.” stated Heath, her eyes showing confusion at his statement.

“I was doing it to protect you and the children from people in my past. When I was a marshal, I never dreamed of ever settling down and raising a family. I was afraid if I married as a marshal, I’d leave my wife a widow and my children fatherless.” sighed Heath pausing to gather his thoughts.

“Heath, you’re not a marshal anymore. I knew you were pulling away for some reason, but I’m more upset you didn’t tell me why or even give me a chance by explaining it.” stated Melinda, her eyes filling with tears. “You didn’t trust me enough to take the chance with you.”

“No, honey.” urged Heath holding her face in his hands. “I didn’t trust myself to be able to live without the fear. I thought I could be the big tough man and go on without you. But I can’t Mel, when it comes to you, I’m a weak man. Not weak in a bad way, but in a way I’d never thought would be possible or I’d ever welcome.”

Wiping her tears from her cheeks, Heath picked up her hand and placed a kiss on her palm. His voice cracked with bottled emotion, “Mel, I love you so much. I can’t bear the thought of anything happening to you because of me. Or the children. You have become such a large part of my heart, I’m lost without you.”

“Oh, Heath.” whispered Melinda unable to stop the tears from spilling out again.

Pulling her into his arms, Heath placed a kiss on her strawberry blonde hair, “I’ve missed you and when I heard you’d been taken to Dr. Merar’s…”

Unable to finish his words, Heath tightened his hold on her and Melinda could feel a quiver run through the strong blonde. Her arms were encircled around his waist and she ran her hands up his muscular back.

Tilting her head up, Heath sought the delicate lips and the lingering, gentle kiss left them both desiring more. Looking into the glazed green eyes, he whispered, “Please forgive me, Mel for not being strong enough to push my fear aside and grab at happiness with both hands.”

“I love you, Heath. There’s nothing to forgive.” whispered Melinda, then winked. “Just don’t do it ever again.”

Chuckling, Heath smiled widely, “Yes, ma’am.”

Putting a stray wisp of hair behind her ear, Heath’s eyes turned to concern. “Are you okay, Melinda? Why’d you faint and what’s your mother doing here?”

Putting her fingers on his lips, Mel’s green eyes sparkled with love. “If you stay and have dinner, I’ll answer your questions.”

“Blackmail is against the law, I’ll have you know.” teased Heath staring into her eyes.

“Really?” inquired Melinda with a small smile, “What’s the punishment for that?”

Sapphire eyes light up with anticipation and he slowly lowered his head, stopping just before the touch of their lips. “Ah, it’s punishment of the sweetest kind.”

Melinda’s hand reached behind his neck and pulled him closer. The world was spinning wildly on it’s axis, the sun was bursting in the sky with glowing light, the wind blew a gentle breeze across their warmed bodies and life around them burst into a flurry of motion as love was rejoined. The pathway lay clear before them, the future bright with possibility.

Looking out the window, Grace spied on the two adults on the front steps. Even in Sacramento anything concerning the wealthy Barkley family was news and made the society columns. When she met Heath Thomson, she hadn’t realized he was the other son. The one born out of wedlock, a product of an act of sin and impropriety.

That knowledge was provided by an overly excited eight year old Timmy who explained all about Mr. Heath and Mr. Nick at the Barkley ranch. He told about their last visit and how Mr. Heath’s brother, Mr. Nick took him and Megan out riding.

Pulling on her hand, he stated, “Grandma, wanna see my marshal’s badge?”

Grace drew her eyes downward and smiled, “Sure, Timmy. Did you make it out of paper?”

Shaking his head, Timmy lead her to his room. Megan followed dragging her cloth doll behind her. Timmy took out a wooden box from his drawer, his small fingers reached inside and placed the heavy metal badge in his grandma’s hand.

“See, it looks just like Mr. Heath’s when he was a marshal.” explained Timmy. “It’s shaped like a star and you use this thing in the back to pin it to your shirt.”

“Did Mr. Heath give this to you?”

Nodding, Timmy put the prized possession back in the box. “Sure after he got better from his bullet wound.”

“His bullet wound? You mean he was shot?” queried Grace.

“In the side. I saw ‘em when they brung him in.” stated Timmy putting his box away. “He looked awful. He was real sick. I cut my hand on some metal trying to make a badge. Then, Mr. Nick said maybe Mr. Heath’d give me a real badge and he did!”

“That must have been scary for you, Timmy.”

Shrugging, Timmy sat on the bed by his grandmother. “Nah! When I saw Mr. Heath thrown out the hotel window that was real scary. He was in the street all bloody and crumpled up. People were running around and screaming.”

Staring at the child, Grace frowned, “When did that happen?”

Thinking, Timmy replied, “When he was a marshal. I don’t know who did it. All’s I know is another marshal was killed at the jail that day. I heard the sheriff say it was a aversion.”

Taking a lace cloth out of her pocket, Grace dabbed at her face. “Oh my.”

“I was gonna be a marshal, but now I’m not. I didn’t like that dead body I saw in the woods. It was disgusting!” shivered Timmy.

“What dead body?” asked Grace, her eyes wide with shock.

“Some lawyer. I think Mr. Heath knew him.” stated Timmy.

“Oh. Mr. Heath’s a rancher now, isn’t he?”

“Yep, with Mr. Nick. They have a huge house. It has a hundred rooms in it!” exclaimed Timmy. “I got lost in it. Mr. Thomson said he got lost too.”

“Mr. Heath got lost in his own house?”

Laughing, Timmy shook his head, “No, grandma! Mr. Heath’s grandfather. He’s Mr. Thomson. He stayed at the ranch too.”

“He lives there?”

“No. He got shot too. He was there to cuperate.” said Timmy before jumping off the bed to take a book out of Megan’s hand. “Megan, you can’t read yet. Play with your doll.”

Grace closed her eyes and felt sick to her stomach. ‘Out of the mouth of babes’ she thought. Fanning herself, she found herself wondering why Melinda was subjecting Timmy to such violent people. Especially one who was not of the ideal upbringing for a woman or children to be around.

Timmy looked up, his brown eyes concerned, “You okay, grandma? You look sick.”

Grace nodded, “I do feel a little sick.”

Running out the door, Timmy shouted to his mother, “Mama, Grandma’s sick!”

Melinda heard the shouts and rushed into the house. Heath stood in the living room while Melinda followed Timmy into his bedroom. Melinda returned to the room and walked over to Heath.

“Do you want me to get Dr. Merar for your mother?” asked Heath.

Shaking her head, Melinda sighed. “No, she thinks it was just the long trip and not having enough to eat.”

“I’d best go. Your mother should rest.” suggested Heath caressing her cheek. “We have lots of time to talk later.”

Melinda nodded, “I suppose you’re right.”

Leaning over, Heath brushed a kiss across her lips, “You’re coming to Audra’s birthday party, right?”

Melinda squeezed his hand, “I am now.”

Grinning, Heath opened the door. “How about if I pick you and everyone up at four that day to take you to the ranch?”

“I’d like that, Heath. Thank you.” smiled Melinda. “I’ll see you in a couple days.”

Placing one last kiss on her lips, Heath whispered, “Give the kids a hug for me.”

Closing the door behind him, Heath’s smile was wide and happy. Walking down the street, his smile faded slightly at the stance of an angry deputy and dark haired brother waiting on the boardwalk by Dr. Merar’s.

“Hi boys!” said Heath stopping in front of the pair. “Sorry about earlier, Billy. Guess I was a little worried and not thinking too clearly.”

Nodding, Billy grinned, “At least Matilda isn’t lame this time.”

“Matilda!” choked Nick. “You named your horse Matilda?”

Turning crimson, Billy snapped, “My grandmother named her! Ain’t nothin’ wrong with that name!”

Heath shook his head and Nick watched the deputy climb onto the mare, “You gotta admit it’s kinda funny, Billy!”

Rolling his eyes, Billy smirked and nudged the mare forward, “It’s about the same as naming a horse Coco.”

“Hey!” shouted Nick to the retreating chuckling deputy, “Coco’s a good name!”

Heath laughed and his steps towards the Barkley horse were stopped by a firm grasp on his arm.

Nick poked his finger into the blonde’s shoulder, “You want to know what really chaps my ass?”

Moving to the side caused Nick’s finger to miss his shoulder and Heath replied with a smirk. “No, but you’ll tell me anyway.”

Scowling, Nick threw an arm across his brother’s shoulders, “Cantankerous and stubborn little brothers! Little brothers whose skull must be as thick as a board. Little brothers who pretend they can’t work, then gallop all the way into town on someone else’s horse. A horse they stole!”

“Is that what’s Gene done now?” inquired Heath, his blue filled with amusement.

“Smart ass.” growled Nick and then staring into the blue eyes, asked, “Melinda?”

“She had a fainting spell. She’s fine, Nick.” said Heath walking over to the horse standing by Coco.

Placing a firm hand on Heath’s shoulder, Nick turned the younger man and shook his head, “Wait right there! Fine as in ‘fine, I guess’ like the other day. Or fine as in ‘we’re courting again, fine’?”

“Fine as in I’m a lucky man whose in love with a wonderful woman!” grinned Heath receiving a hearty slap on the back from his big brother.

Heath climbed into the saddle and glared at Nick on Coco. “Nick, you want to know what chaps my ass about big brothers?”

Nick groaned, “Okay, what?”

“Absolutely nothing!” winked Heath before he urged the horse into a cantor in the direction of the ranch. Smiling broadly, Nick caught up quickly to his brother’s side.

Melinda tucked the children into bed, kissing their foreheads gently. Timmy was excited about the upcoming trip to the Barkley ranch, even if he had to wear his Sunday clothes. All evening his favorite topic of conversation was Mr. Heath and Mr. Nick.

Finally getting the excited boy to sleep, Melinda closed the door behind her. Leaning against it, she sighed deeply. Pushing away from the door, she straightened her shoulders and walked into the small living room.

Grace was sitting on the sofa sipping tea. Melinda sat in the chair across from her mother, her green eyes staring at the healthy woman.

“Why did you pretend to be sick, Mother?”

The unexpected question startled Grace. “Whatever do you mean, Mellie?”

“I am not blind, mother. As soon as Heath left miraculously you were cured.” snapped Melinda angrily.

Putting her cup and saucer on the side table, Grace sighed, “I was feeling nauseous, Mellie and I don’t appreciate your tone of voice.”

Taking a deep breath to calm herself, Melinda sat back in her chair, “Mother, let me put it to you another way then. Why did you pretend to be sick like Timmy pretends so he doesn’t have to go to school?”

Grace brushed an imaginary piece of lint off her skirt, her voice nervous. “Really, Mellie, I cannot believe you think I would do such a thing. I think you are imaging it.”

“I don’t believe I am, Mother.” stated Melinda quietly. “I will not have you making judgments on my life here in Stockton.”

“Since you brought up Stockton, Mellie.” paused Grace. “I think you should consider moving back to Sacramento. The city will have more to offer the children as they grow and our house has more room than I need. It would be perfect for all of us.”

“Mother, thank you for the offer, however, the children and I are happy here.” smiled Melinda. “I would never consider moving.”

Disappointment shown in the emerald eyes and Grace asked quietly, “Timmy told me about Mr. Thomson’s violent past. The children shouldn’t be subjected to all that and Melinda are you aware, well, of his parents’ sin?”

“So that’s it.” snapped Melinda. “You are judging Heath and you don’t know him. All you can see is how it will look to the other snobs around you. I see nothing has changed after all!”

“I am not judging, Melinda.” replied Grace rubbing her pinkie and thumb of her left hand together.

Melinda caught the nervous gesture which brought her back in her mind to her childhood. A gesture which caused Melinda’s stomach to curdle when she entered the room and noticed it. More times than not, her father would be demanding she improve herself, her acquaintances or her life. His words made her feel lower than a snake’s belly, her mother sat in the room prim and proper.

No movement except the nervous gesture of the fingers on her left hand. No words said to the head of the household to stop the emotional wounds he inflicted. No hugs or kisses from her mother after he left the room – only a vacant look before she followed his footsteps leaving her daughter behind, craving and yearning for love.

Shaking her head and forcing herself back to the present, Melinda looked over at her mother.

“Heath Thomson was a marshal when he came to Stockton. Marshals have a dangerous job and get injured, Mother. I love Heath Thomson. He’s a wonderful man with a kind and gentle spirit. When he came into our lives, we were blessed.”

“Melinda, I’m sure you think that. He is very handsome and rich.” stammered Grace. “Those are two nice qualities to have in a potential husband.”

“Quite frankly, Mother. His financial matters are not your concern.” informed Melinda. “I could care less if he were rich or not. It doesn’t matter to me.”

“Melinda, I don’t want to fight with you.” smiled Grace nervously. “Let’s talk about something else and we can discuss Sacramento later.”

“No, Mother. I will not talk about anything else. You need to understand I am not a little girl anymore. This is my home, these are my children and this is my life. If you cannot accept how things are, go back to Sacramento.” stated Melinda firmly, leaving her shocked Mother sitting on the sofa.

The Barkley mansion was decorated with flowers and streamers. The birthday cake sat on a table in the corner of a room, presents lined a table next to it. The guests would be arriving in a short time and Victoria breezed through the mansion ensuring all was set.

Audra was upstairs changing when Heath arrived with the first guests. Silas showed Mrs. Fields to an upstairs room where she could change into her gown. Heath stopped Melinda from following and lead her outside with the children. Walking towards the barn, Timmy greeted Nick who was leading out two horses.

“Mr. Nick, what ya’ doing?” asked Timmy.

Kneeling, Nick grinned, “Well, Coco and Sport here need some exercise. You and Megan want to help?”

Timmy’s brown eyes grew wide as saucers and he looked up at his mother, “Can we mama? Please?”

“Nick, both of them? Are you sure?” hesitated Melinda.

“Sure, it won’t be any problem. I’ll have a lead rope attached to my saddlehorn. It’ll be fine, Sport’s real gentle. Don’t worry.” informed Nick.

“Please, mama?” pleaded Timmy pulling on her hand.

Receiving a nod from Heath, Melinda smiled, “Okay, but you have to be back in time to get ready for the party.”

“Alright!” shouted Timmy.

Heath helped the youngster into the saddle, adjusted the stirrups to his height and gave him some last minute pointers. Megan sat on the saddle in front of Nick, his arm holding her in place. Waving goodbye, the riders headed out at a walk.

Duke lead Charger out to the marshal boss, thanking the foreman, Heath mounted. Leaning down, he offered his hand and Melinda smiled with a question in her eyes. Sitting sideways in front of him, she wrapped her arms around his waist and whispered in his ear.

“Heath, where are we going?”

“Wherever we want, darlin’.” replied Heath squeezing her hand and nudging Charger into a cantor, in the opposite direction of Nick and the children.

Reaching a small stream, Heath jumped down and reached up to help Melinda down. Holding her in his arms, he smiled into her eyes. “I’ve missed you, Mel.”

“I missed you too.” whispered Melinda standing on her tiptoes and brushing her lips against his. Heath moaned and pulled her closer, their desires building between them.

Holding her hand, he grabbed his saddlebags and lead her beneath a large old tree. Spreading out a blanket, she smiled when he helped her down. Green eyes watched while Heath took out a bottle of wine, two glasses, bread and some cheese.

“What’s all this?” asked Melinda while Heath opened the wine and nibbled on a piece of cheese he handed her.

Handing her a glass, Heath grinned, “Compliments of big brother Nick. He thought we should spend some quiet time together before the festivities tonight. He said I was a grouchy old bear from not having seen you.”

“Well, I have to remember to thank Nick properly.” teased Melinda.

“Properly?” growled Heath leaning closer to her. “What do you mean by properly?”

“Why, Heath. Nick has done us a great favor, I think a small kiss of appreciation wouldn’t be too much.” said Melinda seriously.

Heath flashed a grin, “This is the perfect spot for our quiet time, don’t you think?”

Looking around, Melinda’s green eyes filled with appreciation. “It is perfect. So beautiful, quiet and private.”

Taking a sip of wine, Heath tilted his head, “What kind of kiss will Nick get?”

Putting her glass on the ground, Melinda moved over in front of the blonde. Reaching out, she pulled his face towards hers and kissed his cheek at the last second. Giggling, her green eyes filled with laughter, her hand covered her mouth trying to stop her laughter.

Chuckling, Heath put his glass down and smiled evilly. “No, I think this is more of a kiss of appreciation.”

Pulling her closer, his lips placed a trail of kisses down her soft neck, his hand entwined in her hair. Melinda’s breath grew heavy from the tingling on her skin. Heath’s eyes glittered like blue ice and he kissed the corners of her mouth.

Pulling them over onto their sides, he caressed her cheek and stared lovingly into her fiery eyes before claiming her lips. Holding onto his vest, Melinda pulled him closer to her and urged his kiss to continue. The responsiveness between them heightened their awareness of each other, the need of longing and desire was threatening to erupt.

Stopping his kiss, Heath ran his hands over her arm and smiled, “Melinda, will you marry me?”

Surprise and shock flew into the green eyes which welled with tears. “Yes, Heath. Oh yes.”

Wrapping his arms around her, Heath held on tightly and tilted her head back. “I love you so much, Melinda.”

“I love you, Heath.” cried Melinda when he slipped the solitaire on her finger.

Kissing the diamond, he released her hand and cupped her cheek. Smiling with happiness, he pulled her over onto him and their kisses deepened along with their hunger. Gasping for air and control, Melinda lay by his side, her left hand on his chest.

“Heath, are you sure? You’ll have an instant family.” whispered Melinda.

Kissing her forehead, Heath smiled, “When you marry me, you’ll marry into the whole family. You’ll have more brothers than you’ll know what to do with or can shake a stick at."

Laughing, Melinda’s tears of joy ran down her cheeks. “I’m a lucky person to have found you, Heath.”

“No, honey. I’m the luckiest man in the world to be able to share my life with a wonderful woman like you.” stated Heath leaning on his elbow and gazing into her eyes. Gentle kisses on the tracks of her tears ended with one last lingering kiss on her soft lips.

....Continued