Grace Fields’ eyes couldn’t hide her unhappiness over the engagement news from her daughter. The remaining Barkley family members were overjoyed at the news and eagerly greeted the happy couple enthusiastically with hugs and kisses. Gene took Timmy by the hand and offered to help him get dressed in his Sunday best.

Heath made an effort to talk to Melinda’s mother to no avail. She would not be swayed. Nick looked ready to throw the woman out of the house but Victoria placed a small hand on her son’s arm, reining in his volatile temper. Heath threw an arm over Nick’s broad shoulders and directed him up the stairs while speaking quietly in his big brother’s ear.

Heading up the grand staircase to dress for the party, Melinda paused at the top and looked back towards the parlor. Audra put an arm over her shoulders and lead her towards the guest room, “Melinda, I can’t wait to see the new dress you told me about. It sounds beautiful!”

Melinda hugged Audra and whispered, “Are you sure you don’t mind us stealing some of your limelight during your party?”

Audra’s blue eyes sparkled and she nodded, “I’m so happy for you two, I’ll probably tell everyone before you can!”

“Thank you, Audra.” smiled Melinda. “Let me show you the dress. I made it myself.”

Entering the room, the two girls talked about fashion and parties. Melinda, an only child, felt tears spring into her eyes.

“What’s wrong?” queried Audra.

“I’ll have brothers and a sister! I’ve never had siblings before.” said Melinda wiping her eyes.

Handing her a hanky, Audra giggled, “It’s not all fun, let me tell you! Those brothers of mine are real rascals. I don’t think they got spanked enough when they were little.”

Melinda chuckled and hugged Audra again, “I’m going to enjoy every minute of it!”

Victoria handed Megan to Jarrod, her gray eyes relaying the desire to be alone with Melinda’s mother.

“Come on, little princess. Let’s go get your party dress on.” said Jarrod walking up the stairs with the toddler, away from the adult conversation about to take place.

Grace stood looking outside the window and turned at Victoria’s words, “As mothers of the bride and groom, we certainly have our work cut out for us. Planning a wedding takes a lot of time. I’m so happy Heath and Melinda found each other.”

“Mrs. Barkley, he is not your son, not really.” stated Grace.

“Really? In my heart and soul, Heath’s been my son since the first time I saw him.” smiled Victoria. “I’m not sure what children or family mean to you, but to me they mean more than life itself, more than the air I breathe.”

Shaking her head, Grace sighed, “I don’t understand you or your family. How can you welcome him? Isn’t he a reminder of what your husband did to you?”

“Heath is an innocent person in what happened. He had nothing to do with his parents’ indiscretions. He is a person I’m proud to call my son. If you allow yourself time to get to know him, I think you’ll feel the same way.” urged Victoria. “All you have to do is open your mind and heart.”

“He’s not the type of person who should be around Melinda and the children. His past is too violent and well, his background is quite questionable!” snapped Grace.

Gray eyes flashed with cold anger and Victoria took a step closer, “I am finding it hard to believe you’d question Heath’s integrity while as a mother, you did nothing to protect your own daughter from her father’s less than loving treatment. You are the one who is a disgrace, not my son!”

Shocked, Grace stepped back, “You have no right to question how I raised my daughter!”

Victoria’s eyes flashed, her voice cold. “I have every right when you impugn the character of my son.”

“Well, I never!” shouted Grace in outrage.

“Mrs. Fields, this is my home and you are here at our request for a happy occasion. I will allow you to stay because quite simply, you are Melinda’s mother. However, if I hear one whisper out of you regarding your opinion of my son Heath tonight – I will personally throw you out myself!”

“You are threatening me!” gasped Grace.

Turning to leave, Victoria spun around, “No, that is a promise!”

Grace stared at the petite woman as she walked back towards the kitchen. Melinda walked into the parlor carrying her bag, the angry words had floated to her ears on her way to the watercloset. Setting it down, she looked at her mother’s look of outrage.

“Melinda, this family is shocking!”

“No, Mother. They are real people with real feelings. Much more real than I think you’ve ever been capable of or have ever shown me. I don’t believe you will enjoy yourself tonight. At my request, Silas has informed Ciego to take you to the hotel. A train leaves in the morning for Sacramento. Be on it.” stated Melinda firmly.

Grace’s face was red with fury and she picked up her bag. Melinda watched as her mother glared at her and opened the front door. Tears streamed down Melinda’s face at the sound of the closing door and two strong arms encircled her from behind.

“Let me talk to her again and bring her back. I’m sure we can get her to change her mind.” whispered Heath in her ear.

Turning in his arms, Melinda shook her head, “No, Heath. I’d like to think in some way, she does love me, but I’m afraid my mother will never get past the ideas she’s been forced to live with for so many years. I know it took me a long time but with Mike’s help, I was able to become a whole person instead of a shell of a person.”

“Mel, she’s your..”

Putting her fingers on his lips, she sighed, “You and the children are what’s important in my life. My mother may never be able to experience the same joy the rest of us can. It’s sad and I’d like to think the future would be different, but no one has control over these things. It’s not your fault and it’s not my fault.”

Realizing the truth in what she was saying, Heath placed a kiss on her forehead and stroked her hair while he held her in his arms, amazed at the woman who agreed to be his wife. Melinda leaned against the man holding her, his arms were the safest place in the world to her and she welcomed the strength and comfort they provided.

Jarrod’s voice shouted from the top of the stairs, “Megan, come back here! Nick, grab her!”

Hurrying up the stairs, Heath and Melinda laughed at the suave attorney and strong rancher chasing after a giggling two year old who escaped from the watercloset, dressed only in her undergarments.

Timmy, who stood in the guest room doorway with Gene, watched the two grown men chase his little sister in the hallway and stated simply, “She’s only running cause you’re chasing her. She thinks it’s a game, Mr. Nick.”

At Timmy’s words, Nick and Jarrod stopped their pursuit. Both men rolled their eyes when Megan walked over and took the dress out of Jarrod’s hand. “Pary ess”

Melinda squeezed Heath’s hand and whispered, “This family is wonderful.”

Placing a kiss on her hand, Heath winked, “Don’t I know it, darlin’.”

Melinda opened the door of the guest room and entered the hallway, holding onto Megan’s hand. The mother and daughter wore matching dresses of a deep green color. Melinda’s hair was swept up into ringlets, her eyes appeared darker from the contrasting dress. The rounded neckline revealed a hint of cleavage, teasing the sapphire eyes staring at her. Her bare arms tingled when Heath ran his fingers over her soft skin, his lips tenderly kissed her cheek.

“You look absolutely stunning, Mel.” whispered Heath unable to take his eyes off her.

Blushing, Melinda smiled. “You are looking rather dashing in your tux, Heath."

“More like a monkey suit.” teased Heath before placing a tender kiss on her lips.

Megan pulled on Heath’s hand and looked upwards at the tall man, vying for his attention. “Mr. Heaf.”

Heath knelt down and grinned, “Who’s this beautiful girl in her pretty dress?”

“Me.” said Megan holding out her arms to be picked up. Heath wrapped her in his arms and stood up, his eyes sparkling at the two women in his life.

“Shall we, ladies?” asked Heath holding his right arm out for Melinda to hold and carried the toddler in his left. Watching the trio descending the stairs, Nick and Jarrod nudged each other at the picture before them.

“What a beautiful sight.” said Jarrod.

“It is, Pappy. They’re perfect for each other.” stated Nick, a wide grin spreading across his face.

As soon as the couple hit the wooden floor of the foyer, Mrs. Collins rushed over and greeted the couple, showing them with congratulations. Taking the toddler out of Heath’s arms, she winked and encouraged them to not worry about the little one.

Thanking her, Heath took Melinda’s hand and stopped in front of his grinning brothers. “What are you two smiling at?”

Leaning over to kiss his future sister-in-law’s cheek, Nick winked at her and stated, “Pappy and I were saying how the sight of Melinda on your arm makes it a whole lot easier on our eyes when we look at ya’.”

Jarrod and Melinda laughed while Heath grabbed his brother by the back of the neck, “Twit brain!”

Audra and Victoria came over and stole Melinda from his side. Heath’s blue eyes twinkled at the sight of the arriving physician and his wife. Nick and Jarrod saw the deviltry pop into the sapphire eyes and followed when Heath made a beeline to the older couple.

“Mrs. Merar, what a vision of loveliness you are tonight!” exclaimed Heath gallantly bowing over her hand. “I believe dances three through ten are ours, right my dear lady?”

Helen giggled at the outrageous behavior and smiled, “Heath, you are a few years too late, I’m afraid.”

Feigning a wounded look, Heath watched Howard roll his eyes upwards and shake his head. “Come along, Helen. I can see that I’ll have to keep guard over you all night!”

Chuckling, Heath winked when Howard walked by and squeezed the blonde’s shoulder. “You’re looking healthy, Heath. Try to stay out of trouble tonight.”

Nick and Jarrod snickered and pulled their blonde brother over to where Gene stood. Timmy was helping Silas carry trays in from the kitchen and place them on a table. Seeing Heath, he ran over, “Mr. Heath, you look different in those clothes!”

“Different, huh?” teased Heath. “Well, sometimes even ranchers have to dress up.”

Timmy agreed, “Not just for church, either.”

Nick knelt down and tousled the boy’s hair, “You helping Silas, Timmy?”

“Yep! He said I’m a hard worker!” stated Timmy. “Hey, Mr. Nick, I heard a lady asking about you.”

Heath and Jarrod chuckled at the hopeful grin which spread across Nick’s face, “You did? Can you tell me which lady without pointing?”

“Nick!” admonished Jarrod with a shake of his head.

“Sure. She has on a dress and earrings.” stated Timmy before heading back to help Silas.

Groaning at his brothers’ laughter, Nick growled, “Heath, you gotta teach Timmy to be more observant! A dress and earrings? That’s every woman here!”

Putting an arm across the scowling man’s shoulders, Heath sighed, “At least we know four women you can rule out for sure, Nick. Mother, Audra, Melinda and Megan!”

“Smart ass.” smirked Nick, his hazel eyes sparkling with laughter. “Time for a drink. You too, college boy!”

The four brothers made their way to the table and stood sipping their beers, talking with the other men at the party. Heath’s eyes glanced around the room, stopping at the sight of Melinda engrossed in conversation with another young lady. Feeling eyes on her, Melinda looked up and smiled.

The two women made their way across the room. “Heath, this is the new school teacher, Miss Baxter. I met her last week at the shop. This is my fiancé, Heath and his brothers, Jarrod, Nick and Eugene.”

Returning the greetings, the others watched the two sets of hazel eyes meet. Nick bowed over the extended hand of the pretty young school teacher, his radiant smile oozing with charm. “Miss Baxter, the pleasure is all mine.”

Melinda grinned while the young woman blushed, “Thank you, Mr. Barkley.”

The small string orchestra in the corner struck up a chord signifying the start of the dancing. Excusing themselves, Heath led Melinda towards the dance floor. Nick followed with the newest lady to Stockton on his arm. Jarrod and Eugene looked down at the mugs which had been thrust into their hands.

“You planning on being a mug holder tonight, Jarrod?” sighed Gene.

“Not me!” stated Jarrod emphatically putting the crystal on the table. “Care to join me, college boy?”

“You bet!” exclaimed Gene scanning the crowd and leading a young lady out on the dance floor.

Victoria stood with the Merar’s and watched her children on the dance floor. The waltz had the couples spinning around in perfect circles. Silas whispered in her ear and she frowned before whispering back.

The waltz ended and Victoria made her way towards the rest of the family. Heath saw her gesture and excused himself.

“Mother?”

“Heath, there’s some marshals here to see you. I asked Silas to show them into the study.” said Victoria catching the look of surprise in the sapphire eyes.

Nodding, Heath left her with a kiss on the cheek and made his way to the study. Overhearing their Mother’s words, Nick and Jarrod followed his path between the guests, curious at the unexpected arrivals. Gray and green eyes were filled with trepidation watching the sight of the brothers heading towards the study.

Reaching the study, Heath put his hand on the doorknob and stopped when he left a large hand squeeze his shoulder. Looking over, he flashed his big brothers a grateful lop-sided grin before turning the brass fixture.

Entering the room, Heath greeted one of the two men with a large hug, “Nate, what are ya’ doing here!”

Nate Jackson returned the enthusiastic hug and walked around his friend, checking his clothing attire like he’d check a horse.

“Wowee, Heath. Can’t say I’ve ever seen you look prettier.” drawled Nate.

“My brothers, Nick and Jarrod Barkley.” smiled Heath. “Nate Jackson. We go back a long ways, before the marshal service.”

Nick and Jarrod shook hands with the marshal and nodded their greetings.

“Heath, this here’s Marshal Thane. Out of Texas.” noted Nate standing to the side.

Introductions aside, Heath waited for the reason for the visit. Marshal Thane, a man in his forties with almost white hair, cleared his throat.

“Mr. Thomson, I think it’s best if we speak alone. Too many ears create loose lips.”

Nick and Jarrod glanced at each other, their surprise evident on their faces. Nick opened his mouth to protest as he stepped forward, “Listen..”

Heath put a hand on Nick’s chest and shook his head. “Nick.”

The two lawmen watched the anger deflate from the hazel eyes at the small gesture from the former marshal. Acquiescing, Nick nodded and stepped over to lean against the desk.

Turning back, Heath stood with arms folded across his chest and smiled, “Whatever you have to say, you can say in front of Nick and Jarrod. I trust my brothers with my life, so can you.”

Marshal Thane nodded, “Mr. Thomson for the past several years we have been working to destroy a counterfeiting operation which runs from Houston to Sacramento. As you may recall from your prior service with the agency, these operations are often shoddily run and more often than not, easy to break up.”

Heath leaned against the pool table. “Yes, I know. Perhaps you’d like to get to the reason you are here. As you see, we are in the middle of entertaining guests. This is our sister’s birthday.”

“Of course.” agreed Thane and then asking, “I believe Martha Simmons is your aunt?”

“Yes and not by choice.” snapped Heath.

Jarrod and Nick’s eyes riveted back and forth between the two men. Immersed in the conversation and afraid of what it meant for their little brother.

“Your aunt and uncle were associated with Jediah Parker. Parker was deeply involved in the counterfeit ring until his death over two months ago. Approximately three to four weeks ago, all circulation of the money stopped. We’re not sure exactly why, however, we think it has to do with whoever the middle man was. We found the press in Strawberry at your uncle’s hotel and the plates are the only items not accounted for.”

“You think my aunt has them?” asked Heath squeezing his temples.

“Yes, we do.” stated Thane. “We need to find those plates. The circulation of the fake money has already put a strain on several states’ economies. We cannot allow it to start again in another place and perhaps jeopardize the nation’s.”

Sighing, Heath replied quietly, “As you are no doubt aware, Marshal Thane, I killed my own uncle and Jed Parker. My aunt disappeared shortly after. I have not seen her since that morning.”

“We know that, Mr. Thomson. I read the report from Sheriff Watkins in Pine Crest.” admitted the marshal. “There is something else you should be aware of.”

“What?” growled Heath, his patience wearing thinner by the minute.

“Dan Nichols has escaped from prison. He appeared to have been one of the ringleaders before you arrested him.”

Staring at the man, Heath frowned, “Nichols was imprisoned over a year ago. How could he have continued leading the ring from prison?”

“The Simmons’ visited him each month, which provided our first big lead on the operation. We need your help to find your aunt and recover the plates. Of course, we also want to get our hands on Nichols, too.”

Shaking his head negatively, Heath stood up, “Marshal Thane, I am a rancher now. If I run across my aunt, I’ll either shake the plates out of her or haul her to the nearest jail cell. I will not actively seek her out. That is all the help I can give. Good night.”

“Heath.” stated Nate softly. “You know he’ll come after you. Being a former lawman, he didn’t have an easy time in prison, even though he was crooked as the rest of the men in there.”

Nate’s words stopped Heath’s progress towards the door. Heath turned slowly. Nick and Jarrod saw the warring emotions in the blue eyes. “Nick, will you tell Mother and the rest of the family we’ll be right out?”

“Sure, Heath.” assured Nick leaving the room seeing the concern in the ocean eyes, reading his brother’s request to stay by the side of the other family members.

Jarrod stood by Heath and placed a hand on his back. His limb felt the tension in the strong back. His blue eyes, slightly darker than his little brother’s, were inquisitive and demanding as they stared into the older marshal’s eyes.

“Marshal Thane, how can you be positive he’ll seek out our brother? After all, he is an escaped convict. I’d think freedom and lessening the chance of capture would be utmost in his mind, not revenge.”

“You are correct, Mr. Barkley.” admitted Thane with a slight nod. “However, due to Mr. Thomson’s family connection with the Simmons and Strawberry’s proximity to Stockton, Jack Larkin has requested we place a marshal here until we deem the threat has passed.”

Heath glanced over towards Nate and received a wink. “I drew the short straw, Heath.”

Smiling slightly, Heath sighed, “I don’t think we’ll have anything to worry about tonight. Too many people around. Silas will show you both to a room where you can sleep tonight.”

Nate and Marshal Thane nodded their agreement and followed the brothers out the door. Jarrod caught Silas’ eye and motioned him over. Shaking the hands of the two men, Heath frowned, “We’ll talk more tomorrow. Good night.”

Melinda met Heath in the foyer, her eyes filled with anxiety. Wrapping his arms around her, Heath whispered, “Sorry for the missed dances, Mel.”

“We have our whole lives to dance together, Heath.” whispered Melinda in his ear. “Are you alright?”

Heath smiled, “I’m fine, honey. We’ll discuss it tomorrow. Tonight, I want to hold you in my arms as we dance and forget the rest of the world.”

Placing a soft kiss on her lips, Heath caressed her cheek before leading her back to the party.

Rising early the next morning, Heath knocked softly on the door of a guest room. Repeating his action, he knocked louder, the door opened and a blurry eyed marshal scowled.

“Damn, I forgot how early you get up.” groaned Nate wiping the sleep from his eyes.

Heath smirked, “I’m gonna have coffee with Silas. Hurry up, I want to see the sunrise.”

Nodding, Nate closed the door and quickly changed. Descending the backstairs into the kitchen, he took a seat at the table with Heath and Silas.

Extending his hand to Silas, he smiled widely. “We weren’t properly introduced last night. I see Heath’s manners haven’t improved over the years. Nate Jackson.”

“Silas Whiting.” replied Silas shaking the extended hand with a slight smile when Heath rolled his eyes at the man’s teasing.

“This here’s some mighty fine vittles, Mr. Whiting.” claimed Nate digging into his breakfast with gusto. “Best cooking I’ve had in a coon’s age.”

Silas smiled widely and waved off the young man’s thanks. Finishing their breakfast, the two men left Silas alone. Nate walked beside Heath, stopping and leaning against the corral beside him, his eyes not watching the glorious sunrise instead scanning the outlying areas away from the ranch buildings.

An hour passed while Nate watched Heath work with a new horse in the corral. The scene caused memories to flood the marshal’s mind from years before. Patting the horse one last time on the neck, Heath joined him outside the corral. Nate nudged Heath when he saw a vision walking towards them. Heath looked over and smiled.

“Heath, what a beautiful woman!” whispered Nate. “Who is she?”

“I’ll introduce you.” drawled Heath seeing the gray eyes light up. “Melinda, this is Nate Jackson. Nate, this is Melinda Rankin, my fiancee.”

“Fiancee?” groaned Nate softly. “I’m always a dollar short and a day late, eh Heath? Nice to meet you, Miss Rankin. Hard to believe you tamed this wild one.”

“Nice to meet you, Mr. Jackson.” smiled Melinda. “I do believe however, Heath is anything but tame.”

Heath glared at Nate’s laughter and held Melinda’s hand as they walked back to the house. “Are the kids up yet?”

“KIDS?” shouted Nate in disbelief, stopping the couple in their tracks.

“Yes, kids. You know small people about yea big.” stated Heath holding his hand below his hip, palm down. Melinda giggled at the red which appeared across the marshal’s face.

“I see your sense of humor hasn’t improved over the years, either.” snorted Nate, his gray eyes darkened with amusement.

Heath’s reply was cut off by Nick’s call from the house, “Heath, everyone’s in the parlor.”

Heath squeezed Melinda’s hand gently and winked at her questioning look. “This’ll be your first family meeting, darlin’. Be prepared.”

“Prepared for what?” asked Melinda curiously.

Chuckling, Heath smiled, “The fireworks Nick is usually good for.”

Entering the house, the trio made their way to the parlor where Marshal Thane was with the rest of the family. After introducing Nate, Heath explained the reason for the appearance of the lawmen at the ranch.

“Heath, do you think Dan Nichols will come here?” asked Victoria.

All eyes in the room turned towards the blonde standing in front of the mantle. Heath’s inclination to keep his family from having to face the truth had him hesitating. He didn’t want them to worry. He didn’t want them to be constantly watching, but he knew preparation was the best offense.

Heath’s slow nod of ascent thickened the tension in the room. “As the old saying goes ‘revenge is sweet’. At first, I was inclined to wave off Jack’s concern. But I could see how revenge for what he had to suffer in prison would be great motivation to Nichols.”

“We’ll just be prepared!” stated Nick firmly. “We’ll set up watches and the men can parole the grounds.”

Shaking his head, Heath said quietly, “Nick, this is a ranch. We can’t stop the workings of the ranch because of something that may not happen.”

“Heath’s right, Nick.” agreed Jarrod.

Nick’s frustration clearly showed on his tanned face, “Well, what do you expect us to do? Just let him waltz in here and kill our brother!”

“NICK!” snapped Heath at the three female faces draining of color. “That’s why Nate is here. He can keep watch and I’m capable of using a gun also.”

Running his hand through his hair, Nick sighed and looked over at the three ladies on the sofa, “I’m sorry for how that sounded.”

“It’s okay, Nick. We know you’re just worried.” assured Melinda with a smile, her eyes leaving the hazel ones to seek the sapphire ones. Heath grinned at his lady, his eyes reflecting the emotions in his heart.

“Nick, we can let the men know what’s going on and they can watch for anything unusual while they’re out on the range.” explained Heath calmly. “The crew can’t pull double duty of guarding at night and working a full day. Instead of leaving Ciego on the ranch during the day alone, we’ll start leaving a second man behind. His job will be to watch the home base while we’re working.”

“Okay, we’ll try it, Heath.” scowled Nick. “I’m not giving you up to Nichols so if I think it’s not enough, we’ll do it my way!”

Victoria smiled and caught Jarrod’s eyes. Smirking, Jarrod shook his head and winked at his mother. Her thoughts the same as his, two sons, both stubborn.

Gene cleared his throat, drawing Heath’s attention to him. “Heath, you and Melinda are still getting married, right?”

The question had lingered in all of their minds. The fear which almost drove the couple apart was still fresh in their thoughts and souls.

Dropping his gaze to the floor, Heath said softly, “Only if she’ll still have me.”

Melinda smiled widely and jumped up from the sofa. The tension was replaced with relief and happiness as the couple embraced. “Of course, I do. I wouldn’t let you off that easy, Heath.”

Laughing, Heath looked over at his little brother, “There’s your answer college boy. Let’s check on the little ones, Mel.”

Heath and Melinda left the family with smiles on their faces. Climbing the staircase, Heath took her hand and lead her into his room. Closing the door, he leaned against it and pulled her to him.

“I’m not going anywhere, Mel. I’ll be right here with you. Dan Nichols or not.” whispered Heath firmly.

“I know.” whispered Melinda, drawing his face to hers and urged his lips to respond.

Closing his eyes and breathing deeply, Heath groaned, “Boy howdy, we better get married soon.”

Laughing softly, Melinda teased, “How about next week?”

“Don’t you want a big wedding?” asked Heath kissing her eyelids tenderly, his hands caressing her back softly.

“No, just us and the family. That is all I want.” sighed Melinda, her knees rapidly becoming weak from his touch.

“How about the day after grandfather returns from Virginia as our wedding day?” suggested Heath, receiving a gentle kiss of agreement on his lips.

After the couple left the room, Marshal Thane thanked the family for their hospitality and left the parlor motioning to Nate. Reaching the front door, the senior marshal put a firm hand on Nate’s shoulder.

“Jackson, don’t leave his side when he’s out of this house. I’m counting on you to handle this personal favor Larkin requested.”

“I am aware of that, sir. I’ll stick to him like a tick.” replied Nate firmly.

“Good! I’m headed to Sacramento. Hopefully they will have found out some news on the middle man. I’ll keep you informed.” explained Thane shaking Nate’s hand before departing the house.

Closing the door after his superior, Nate headed back to the parlor. Nodding to the family, he took a position by the wall where he could watch the foyer.

“Marshal Jackson, how did you meet Heath?” asked Audra curiously.

The other family members watched the man’s face break out in remembrance before being replaced by a mask of professionalism. “I’m sorry, Miss Barkley. You’ll have to ask Heath.”

Surprised at the answer, the family members exchanged looks between each othe, each desiring an explanation for the man’s reluctance to share the information.

Audra frowned, “I don’t understand, Marshal. Why can’t you tell us?”

“Well, Miss Barkley. It’s not that I don’t want to, mind you. I, uh, well, we have just known each other a long time.” stammered Nate, shuffling his feet and twirling his hat nervously.

The puzzled looks of Heath’s family shifted from him to the small dark clothed blur that ran into the room and jumped into Nick’s arms.

“Mr. Nick, you ready to go fishing today?”

Nick’s grin turned into a frown at the small voice quivering with excitement, “Timmy, we may not be able to go today. Why don’t you see Mr. Silas and I’ll let you know after breakfast.”

Timmy’s wide smile faded from his face, his brown eyes loaded with sadness. “Mr. Nick, can’t you go fishing like we planned?”

Seeing the uneasiness on his brother’s face, Heath stated from the entry, “Mr. Nick needs to talk to me first about some ranch business. Your mama’s waiting in the kitchen with your breakfast, Timmy.”

Satisfied with the explanation, Timmy nodded, “Okay, Mr. Heath.”

Waiting until Timmy left the room and foyer, Nick growled, “Heath, I didn’t know what to say to him. He caught me by surprise.”

Heath said quietly, “Nick, why don’t you take him fishing with Scotty or Joe?”

“I don’t know.” hesitated Nick.

“Nick, he’s been looking forward to it since yesterday. Melinda’d like to keep everything as normal as possible for the kids.” explained Heath.

Victoria smiled, “I think that’s the wisest thing to do. Children can sense when something’s not right.”

“Yeah and besides, the stream isn’t that far from the house.” added Heath.

“Okay, I’ll take both Scotty and Joe. Joe can watch and Scotty can haul all the fish back I’m gonna catch.” grinned Nick with a wink at the groans heard throughout the room.

“Marshal Jackson won’t tell us how you two met.” stated Gene curiously to Heath.

“Well, Heath I wasn’t exactly sure…” paused Nate.

Looking into the gray eyes, Heath nodded, “They know, Nate.”

Nate sighed loudly, “If you told me that before, I wouldn’t have been standing here stammering like an idiot!”

Heath rolled his eyes, “What’s unusual about that?”

Snorting, Nate said to the family, “Heath recovered on my family’s ranch in Texas.”

“From what?” asked Audra before any of the others had time to blink.

“From Carterson, sis.” clarified Heath quietly. “Nate’s parents, who are quite unlike him I might add, offered me a place to recuperate after the army released me.”

“Unlike me? Heck, I’m the one who dragged your sorry, uh, carcass home to the ranch!” retorted Nate.

“Nate, I dragged you back to the ranch after you got beat up, remember!” declared Heath crossing his arms across his chest.

“Beat up? Now, Miss Barkley, you’d best close your ears to such foolish talk.” stated Nate with a smile. “Sometimes, I think your brother here kissed the blarney stone.”

Puzzlement flew across Heath’s face, “Blarney stone? What’s that?”

The gray eyes flashed victory to the rest of the family members listening to the exchange with interest and amusement. Nick clapped his little brother on the back and laid an arm across his shoulders, directing him out of the room.

“Heath, don’t be upset. Pappy kissed the blarney stone, too.” stated Nick loudly, laughing at the shout of outrage from the oldest Barkley son, before asking. “You ever been to Ireland?”

“You crazy, Nick. With Nate on my side, I’m lucky I even made it out of Texas!” declared Heath.

“HEY!” called Nate following Jarrod’s path after the two brothers, leaving the others to shake their heads in wonder and laughter.

The sun was high in the sky, shining down, glancing off the water and glistening in the faces of the two fishermen. Nick leaned against a tree, his line in the water, his thoughts on Heath. After explaining the legend of the blarney stone to his little brother, he left Heath in Jarrod’s hands going over some ranch accounts. Nick and Nate walked to the bunkhouse and gathered the men. Briefly, Nick explained the reason for Marshal Jackson’s presence at the ranch.

Nate was surprised at the willingness of the men to watch over one of their bosses. His surprise must have reflected in his gray eyes causing Scotty to stand and speak for the rest of the crew. “Marshal Jackson, all of us have the deepest respect for Heath. He has earned it the hard way. We all admire the man he is and we intend to see no one takes our marshal boss from us. No matter what the cost.”

The men loudly voiced their agreement to the short but honest speech. Joe looked over and asked quietly, “Marshal, if it comes down to you or our marshal boss, how do we know you’d make the right choice?”

Nick’s eyebrows raised at the question and all eyes turned towards the lawman. Nodding, Nate smiled, “Well, that’s a good question. You men don’t know me from a hill of beans. I could say simply because it’s my job, but that’s not the strongest reason.”

Glancing around the room at each other, their eyes went back to the man standing beside Nick.

“Heath and I’ve been through some tight spots in the past, way before we were both marshals. I was surprised at your readiness to fight for Heath, but knowing your marshal boss like I do, I shouldn’t have been. He’s the type of person everyone should be fortunate enough to meet once in their lifetime.”

Several of the men mumbled their agreement and Nick firmly nodded his head. Nate put a boot on the seat of a chair and leaned forward, his voice earnest and sincere.

“That man up in that fine mansion’s had a rough time in his life, starting just seconds after his birth. Now, he’s got a fine family, a grandfather, a beautiful fiancee with two kids he adores and loves. He’s works with a fine crew of men. He’s a rancher! A dream I know he held in his heart for a long time. A dream he never realized ever come true. That man was afraid to dream for years and years. He’s always put others before himself. If you think, I’m gonna let some tainted, backstabbing, no good, lower than a rattlesnake’s belly escaped convict take all that away from Heath, a man I’m proud to call a friend – You boys can think again, cause it ain’t gonna happen if I can help it!”

Nodding, Nate looked at the faces of the men once more before leaving the bunkhouse and walking to the house. Nick and the crew were stunned by the passion behind the words, the firm tone causing their fears to be laid to rest. ‘Yes, this man would make the right choice by their marshal boss.’

Nick cleared his throat and handed out some minor work to be done. “Seeing as how today’s Saturday, Scotty and Joe will be taking Timmy and I fishing.”

A chorus of cushy jobs and boss kissers was whispered jokingly around the crew. Nick grinned and held up his hand, “After the section of fence is mended, you can all have the day off. Tonight, Heath and I will not be joining you in town for poker, but you boys can head in if you want.”

Jim, an older hand stood up and stretched, “Reckon I’m too tired for town tonight, boss. Think I’ll stay here.”

Nick watched, his hazel eyes filled with gratitude when the rest of the crew followed the older hand’s example and his deep voice trembled slightly, “Thanks, boys.”

Timmy sat by Nick, waiting patiently for a tug on his line. Glancing to his left, he saw Scotty further down the bank, his line in the water but his eyes keeping watch upstream.

Joe was nowhere to be seen by Timmy. When they reached the stream, he disappeared and hadn’t come back. Timmy wondered at the actions of the two men. Unknown to the small boy, Joe had circled the area and was in a tree on the other side of the stream. High up in the branches, he stayed at his post and scanned the horizon around them.

“Mr. Nick?”

“Yeah?” answered Nick, his mind on everything but fishing.

“Who’s Dan Nichols?” queried Timmy.

Startled, Nick glanced down into the small face beside him, “Where’d you hear that name?”

Shrugging, Timmy said, “I heard the two marshals talking about him on my way to the watercloset. They was in their room, but the door was open a little. They were talking about him and Mr. Heath.”

“He used to be a marshal.” replied Nick, hoping his answer would end the questions.

“Like Mr. Heath?”

“No. He’s nothing like Mr. Heath.”

Puzzled, Timmy looked upwards, “Mr. Nate’s kind of like Mr. Heath. He’s real nice. Wasn’t this other marshal nice?”

Putting an arm across the small shoulders, Nick sighed, “Timmy, do you know the Swenson brothers, Mike and Mick?”

“Yeah, I know them.” nodded Timmy.

“The marshals are all like a family and being a marshal is like being a brother. Sometimes two people raised in the same family can be different. One good, the other bad. Mike is the good brother, Mick is the bad brother.”

Timmy’s face reflected his thoughtfulness and he bit his lower lip. “Mr. Mick went to prison cause he was the bad one.”

“That’s right, Timmy. Mick went to prison for breaking the law. Now, his brother Mike is a fine man, a good husband and a good rancher.”

“So, this Mr. Nichols is a bad marshal? Mr. Heath and Mr. Nate are the good marshals?” asked Timmy seeing the nod Nick gave him. “Mr. Heath put Mr. Nichols in jail.”

“Mr. Heath did arrest him for breaking the law, but the judge put him in jail.” stated Nick.

Timmy’s brown eyes widened and his lower lip shook, “They said he was coming after Mr. Heath!”

“Now, don’t you worry, Timmy. No one’s gonna do anything to my little brother or your soon to be papa.” assured Nick squeezing the quaking shoulders. “Me, Mr. Nate and the men won’t let that happen.”

“Mr. Nick, can we go back to the ranch now?” asked Timmy quietly. “I don’t feel much like fishing.”

“Alright, Timmy.” agreed Nick tilting the boy’s face upwards. “When we get to the house, you, me and Mr. Heath’s gonna have a talk, okay?”

“Bout what, Mr. Nick?”

“Your mama and Mr. Heath need time to plan the wedding. So I was thinking I could take over your riding lessons instead of Mr. Heath for now. Would that be okay with you?” inquired Nick with a smile.

Smiling widely, Timmy nodded, “Sure, Mr. Nick.”

Gathering up their fishing gear, Timmy stopped Nick with a small hand on his wrist. “Mr. Nick, when mama and Mr. Heath get married, you’ll be Uncle Nick, right?”

Grinning, Nick knelt down and nodded, “Sure, but you can call me uncle now if you want to practice.”

“Alright!” exclaimed Timmy wrapping his arms around his neck. “Thanks, Uncle Nick.”

Patting the small back and holding on tightly, Nick sent a prayer upwards for some extra help to deal with whatever the future might bring.

Rising early on Monday, Heath knocked on Nate’s door and grinned at the blurry eyed marshal. Nate shook his head and shut the door, changing into his clothes. Buttoning up his shirt, his fingers stopped their motion and his head tilted slightly to the side. A brief picture of the two guns belted around Heath’s hips flashed in his mind. Frowning, he grabbed his hat and hurried down the back stairs to the kitchen.

Glancing downwards as he walked to the table, he verified what his subconscious had picked up on. Greeting Silas, Nate grabbed a cup and poured some coffee before he sat down at the table, across from the blonde.

“Don’t you ever sleep in?” complained Nate, taking a sip of the hot coffee.

Smirking, Heath nodded, “Sure. Christmas day.”

Silas smiled slightly and put a full plate of breakfast in front of each man. Heath smiled his thanks and Nate rubbed his hands together in anticipation of the feast. “I’m gonna have to buy new jeans if I keep eating your vittles, Mr. Silas!”

Looking across at the thin man, Heath snorted, “Nate, ya’ could eat a whole herd of cattle and still have room for dessert.”

“You got some dessert, Mr. Silas?” asked Nate with a wide smile.

Silas couldn’t stop his chuckle from escaping at the question and smiled at the two men before leaving the kitchen to prepare the dining room.

Finishing their breakfast and sitting over coffee, Nate stared into the ocean eyes, his tone held a hint of accusation, “Planning on going somewhere, Heath?”

“I was gonna take an early morning ride before we take Melinda and the kids back to town.” stated Heath.

Setting his cup down hard on the table, Nate leaned forward, his gray eyes flashing, “Consider me an attachment of you, Heath. You’ll not step foot outside this house without me.”

“I woke your ass up, didn’t I?” snapped Heath.

“You know the drill, Heath. No excursions unless planned before!” retorted Nate firmly, his eyes not leaving the other’s.

Heath’s eyes hardened with anger briefly before he took a deep breath. He rubbed his hands over his face and smiled slightly. “You’re right, Nate. Sorry, I didn’t get much sleep last night. This whole thing’s making me edgy. I’d prefer action to waiting for the other boot to drop.”

Accepting the statement, Nate replied, “I know how hard this is on ya’, Heath. I don’t like anyone watching over me either, just think of your new family when the confinement seems to be too much and how it’ll all be worth it in the end.”

Smiling widely, Heath nodded, “You’re right.”

“Besides if anything happens to you, Larkin and Thane will ship me off to the Dakota territories.” groaned Nate.

Heath flashed a grin, “We can’t have that now, can we?”

Leaning forward, Nate’s eyes were wide, “Damn right we can’t! Heath, do you know how cold it gets up there? Do you think this Texas boy would survive up there? You can get frostbite on places you don’t even want to imagine!”

Heath smirked. “Boy howdy, I could’ve done without that picture, Nate!”

Walking outside to the barn, the two men saddled their horses and rode out of the ranchyard. Topping a rise, they dismounted and sat beneath a tree to watch the sunrise in silence.

“Heath, I thought the nightmares stopped years ago.” stated Nate quietly, catching Heath’s slight jump out of the corner of his eye.

Surprised at the observation, it took a minute for Heath to gather his thoughts and admitted quietly, “Sometimes, they’ll start after I see something that reminds me of the war or Carterson. Sometimes they come on when I’m feverish. I won’t have them for months and then I’ll have them for a week. Nothing like before, though.”

Nodding, Nate stood up and scanned the land around from their vantage point. “That’s good. Ya’ used to scare the pants off me with those dreams, Heath.”

“I know.” replied Heath softly.

Pushing himself to his feet, Heath put a hand on Nate’s shoulder, “How about getting in some shooting practice before we head back?”

Smiling, Nate slapped the blonde on the back, “You shoot and I’ll keep watch.”

“I’ve seen your shooting, maybe you should spend the time practicing and I’ll keep watch.” teased Heath walking over to Charger and tightening the girth.

“Heath, you’re such a bad shot I don’t know how you made it into the marshal service.” retorted Nate climbing into the saddle, his eyes picking up a lone rider coming towards them. Taking out his field glasses, he smiled. “Hey, Nick’s headed this way.”

Stopping Coco, Nick growled, “Morning boys!”

“Nick, kind of early for you ain’t it?” asked Heath, his eyes full of innocence.

“Smart ass.” retorted Nick with a grin. “I had to check on that fence section so thought I’d ride back with you to make sure you two young’uns keep out of trouble.”

Snorting, Nate winked, “Nick, I’m only a day younger than you.”

“You’re still younger!” replied Nick.

“At least, I don’t have gray hair!” teased Nate kicking his horse into a cantor and listening to Nick’s loud objection. Heath laughed from where he was safely tucked in between the two men.

....Continued