Fred, Howard and Helen were shocked at the whispered news from the marshal after they arrived. Helen walked over and knelt beside the couple in the grass. Melinda’s sobs had stopped but her body was still trembling.

Heath unwrapped his arms from her and said quietly, “Mel, Mrs. Merar will take you and the children to her house. I’ll be there with you after Nate and me speak to Fred.”

The red rimmed stunned green eyes still fresh with tears gazed into the sapphire one and she shook her head, “No, I have to stay here and take care of mother. I can’t leave her like this.”

“Melinda, there’s nothing you can do here now.” pleaded Heath softly, holding her face in his hands.

Her lips trembled and Melinda whispered, “I sent her away and now she’s dead.”

“Mel, it’s not your fault. You didn’t do anything wrong and you couldn’t have stopped it.” assured Heath wiping the tears from her cheeks. “Please take the children to Mrs. Merar’s. They don’t need to be here, honey. Please.”

“You’re right, I’m sorry. They shouldn’t see this.” nodded Melinda, her voice weak from spent tears and emotion, thankful for the strong hands lifting her onto her feet.

Heath gently placed a kiss on her forehead, held onto her arm and lead her over to Nick with Helen Merar. Helen took Megan out of Nate’s arms and Melinda held Timmy’s hand firmly, sending him a small smile, saddened by the fright in his eyes.

Heath put an arm over Nick’s shoulders and pulled him to the side. “Nick, can you go to doc’s and stay with them?”

“Why don’t you come with us, Heath? Fred’ll take care of this robbery and murder. Melinda and the kids need you.” stated Nick quietly.

“I didn’t tell Mel, but it wasn’t a robbery, Nick.” informed the blonde, his eyes hardening with fury. “Whoever did this wasn’t looking for things they could sell and if they were burglars, well, they usually don’t beat a woman and kill her. No, this is something else.”

Nick’s face darkened at the news and he whispered, “I thought her mother went back to Sacramento on Saturday. What was she doing here?”

Heath frowned, “I don’t know, Nick.”

Nate stood quietly by while the brothers conversed and he put a hand on Nick’s shoulder, “I’ll be with Heath. Nick, we need you to watch Melinda and the kids so we can find out what we can.”

“Alright. We’ll wait at Dr. Merar’s til you’re finished and then we can all head out to the ranch.” agreed Nick.

Wrapping his arms around Nick and patting his strong back, Heath whispered, “Thanks, big brother. I’ll feel better knowing you’re there keeping them safe.”

Nate and Heath stood with Fred and Howard until the small group climbed in the surrey. Nick turned the surrey and headed down the street to the physician’s office.

Entering the small house, the men walked back to the bedroom and lifted the sheet to reveal the grisly find. Howard set his bag down on the floor and knelt beside the woman. The lawmen watched while the physician examined the still lady, assisting Howard when asked.

Standing, Howard wiped his hands on a cloth and sighed, “I’d estimate two days ago based on the bruising and stiffness. She left her mark on whoever did it.”

“How do you know that, doc?” asked Fred as he wrote in a small notebook.

Lifting one of the small hands, Howard indicated to the fingernails, “Skin and blood under the nails. I’d venture to say they have some deep scratches on them somewhere.”

“What else, doc?” queried Heath, his blue eyes noting the physician’s slight hesitation.

“The majority of the bruises are on the right side of her face, well, whoever did this could be left handed.” admitted Howard. “I can’t be sure though. It’s just a guess.”

Nate frowned and glanced at Heath, “Nichols is left-handed.”

“Nichols?” repeated Heath. “Yeah, he is but this doesn’t make any sense. He didn’t know Melinda and what would he be looking for in her house? Sides, Nichols isn’t the only left-handed person in the state.”

“Heath, did you say Ciego brought Mrs. Fields into town on Friday night?” asked Fred.

Nodding, Heath stated, “He brought her to the hotel.”

“Let’s check to see if she got a room there. I’ll have the undertaker come for the body, Dr. Merar.” said Fred. “Thanks for your help.”

“Heath, I’ll go see how Melinda is doing.” informed Howard after the men left the house.

“Thanks, doc.” said Heath gratefully.

The lawmen headed to the hotel and obtaining the key from the desk clerk, the three men climbed the stairs. Heath’s face paled slightly when Fred stopped outside the room and put the key in the lock.

“Heath, what’s wrong?” asked Nate in a low voice upon seeing the paleness in his friend.

Wiping his face with a hand, Heath smiled slightly, “Nothing, it’s just this is the room I left through the window instead of the door.”

Nodding, Nate squeezed the blonde’s shoulder and whispered, “Freaky, huh?”

“There’s already too many strange things going on.” whispered Heath with a slight grin.

Turning the key, Fred swung the door open and walked in. The room’s interior indicated a search occurred there also. The three men searched around the small room and nothing was found. Frustrated, they closed and locked the room, headed down the stairs and out onto the boardwalk.

“I don’t get it.” snapped Heath angrily as the men walked towards the physician’s home. “What are they looking for? What’s the motive for killing her? Why here in Stockton and not in Sacramento? All we know is whoever did this sure thought Mrs. Fields had something they wanted.”

“I’ll send a wire to Sacramento to see if Mrs. Fields reported any problems to the law up there. Someone could’ve followed her from there.” suggested Fred. “What does Melinda’s father do? He’ll have to be notified so arrangements can be made.”

Opening his mouth to reply, Heath stopped suddenly and grabbed onto Nate’s arm with a fierce grip. “No, it couldn’t be or could it?”

“What?” asked Nate.

“Melinda’s father’s died over three weeks ago. He was a banker.” stated Heath.

Nate’s head tilted and his gray eyes turned inquisitive, “A banker in Sacramento?”

Nodding, Heath looked into the gray eyes and frowned, “Coincidence or motive?”

“If it’s not a coincidence, Heath, it’d be a very powerful motive. A motive which would cause him to kill anyone who got in his way.” stated Nate, his gray eyes with seriousness as he looked at the other two men.

“If we’re right and he thought Mrs. Fields had the plates, he might think Melinda knows where they are. If we’re right, no sense in giving him three more targets. We’d best get Melinda and the kids to the ranch.” added Heath turning and rushing to the doctor’s office down the street with Nate and Fred following.

Unable to sleep, Heath dressed and walked down the grand staircase, the mantle of the grandfather clock chimed two times. Scowling at the wooden time piece, Heath entered the study and poured a tumbler of scotch. Standing in front of the french doors, Heath’s eyes gazed up at the stars while the smooth scotch burned his throat as it went down.

Putting his empty glass on the desk, Heath opened the french doors and leaned against the doorframe, arms crossed over his chest, letting the cool night air brush against his face. His mind wandered over the past days, his eyes fought the tears which recently seemed to be hovering just behind the orbs.

The ride to the Barkley ranch with Melinda and the children was thankfully uneventful. Stopping at the telegraph office, Nate sent a wire before the small calvacade continued on its way. Heath watched Mel out of the corner of his eye, her pale face and shakiness concerning him.

Reaching the house, the rest of the family was shocked and upset at the morning’s events. Heath whispered his concerns to his Mother. Victoria saw the look in the emerald eyes of the young woman, her heart cried out for justice to whoever had done this. Victoria and Audra led the young mother and the children upstairs.

The days passed and Melinda seemed to be stunned to the core of her very being from the horrid crime. Her motions almost mechanical without a touch of emotion. She was withdrawn and caring for her children without being aware of doing so.

Sapphire eyes watched, full of concern and unsure of what to do, helpless to bring a spark back into the green eyes of the woman he loved. Victoria felt Melinda was still in shock and sent for Dr. Merar. Howard examined Melinda and prescribed a sleeping agent to help the exhausted woman replenish her strength.

Time would take the shock away, Dr. Merar had stated. But Melinda found her mind constantly wondering if it would ever erase the overwhelming guilt she carried inside. She had sent her mother back to Stockton into the hands of a murderer.

Four days later, Marshal Thane had arrived at the Barkley mansion where tension and worry hung over the mansion like a thick summer fog. Nate, Heath and Marshal Thane sat in the study, discussing the evidence which was uncovered in Sacramento.

“You were right, Thomson.” admitted Thane. “It was more than a coincidence.”

Sighing, Heath nodded, “So, Henry Fields was involved with Dan Nichols.”

“Yes, he was filtering the counterfeit money through his bank. By the way, we found Martha Simmons in Sacramento. She said someone paid her to bring a package to Sacramento.” stated Thane.

Rolling his eyes, Heath snorted, “Sure they did!”

Shrugging, Thane grinned slightly, “Well, we can’t prove she knew she was carrying plates being used to make counterfeit money. All we know is her husband was involved with the counterfeiters and nothing else. We couldn’t hold her on supposition.”

“How’d Mrs. Fields wind up with the plates?” wondered Nate.

“Mrs. Simmons stated she was hired to bring the package to the residence of the Fields. She didn’t know how Mrs. Fields came to have the plates. I’m guessing, she was trying to keep any knowledge of her husband’s illegal activities hidden and out of the public eyes. Seems counterfeiting wasn’t the only thing he was into.” stated Thane. “Nichols probably followed her here to get his plates back and then killed Mrs. Fields for them.”

All eyes turned to the door at the sound of a loud gasp. Melinda stood in the doorway and the men stood up as she walked slowly forward.

“You lied to me. You said it was a robbery.” whispered Melinda, her hands clenched at her side. “You said that’s why my mother was murdered. When did you know?”

“Mel..” stated Heath

“WHEN DID YOU KNOW, HEATH?” screamed Melinda furiously. “TELL ME!”

Nick and Victoria ran into the room at the sound of the screams. Nate and Thane had stepped away from the couple to give them room, mother and son joined the two marshals in watching the drama before them. Holding onto her arms, Heath stared into the angry eyes, his voice was calm and soothing.

“Melinda, does it really matter why she was murdered? The only thing that matters is we have to catch whoever did it.”

Shrugging out of his hold, Melinda’s voice was firm, “It matters to me that you lied to me, Heath. What else have you lied about?”

Clenching his jaw to stop the angry retort, Heath shook his head, “Mel, you’re emotional right now and not thinking clearly. Once you get over the shock, you’ll realize I did what I did for you and the children. There was no reason to cause you further pain, honey.”

“Did you ever consider Heath that Nichols murdered my mother to get to you? Did you consider that?” snapped Melinda, her questions causing Heath to physically flinch.

“Nichols was only after the plates. He wouldn’t know we’d been courting.” reasoned Heath softly, reaching up to caress her cheek.

Pulling her face away, Melinda stepped back. “The children and I are going to Sacramento to settle my mother’s estate. I received word from her attorney today.”

“No! Melinda, you need to stay here.” protested Heath, his anger seeping through.

Melinda turned away and Heath stopped her with a firm hand on her arm, “Mel, we don’t know if Nichols found the plates. You can’t leave and you certainly can’t go alone.”

“I’ll be leaving in the morning.” replied Melinda coolly.

Heath’s eyes flashed with anger, “I can’t believe you’d put the children in danger like this! It’s not right!”

Stepping in front of her fiancee, the others in the room winced at the loud crack as her hand left a stinging mark on Heath’s cheek.

“You have no right to speak to me about right or wrong. You kept the reason my mother was killed from me. You lied! YOU HAVE NO RIGHT TO QUESTION HOW I HANDLE MY LIFE!” shouted Melinda, tears burning her eyes while she fled the room.

Heath stood rooted in his spot, the mark of the slap clear on his face, the stinging feel of her hand on his face reaching down into his soul. Victoria followed the sobbing woman and Nick motioned for the others to leave the study.

“Heath, she’s not thinking clearly right now.” urged Nick placing a hand on Heath’s shoulder.

“God Nick, what have I done?” whispered Heath looking into the hazel eyes of his big brother. The torture in the replica of his father’s eyes took the breath out of Nick’s lungs.

Pulling Heath into his arms, Nick held his shaking brother and whispered in his ear, “Heath, you didn’t do anything but try to keep the woman you love from further pain. You did it out of love and when things are clearer, Melinda will realize just that. Give her time to deal with all this and then she’ll be back to herself, you’ll see.”

Nodding, Heath laid his forehead on Nick’s shoulder and fought the tears from spilling out, using his brother’s strength to keep a sliver of hope alive within him.

A hand startled Heath out of his late night thoughts and he turned. Nick’s concerned hazel eyes looked over the weary face of his little brother.

“Heath?”

“I’m okay, Nick.” stated Heath with a small smile which couldn’t reach his eyes.

Keeping his hand on the smaller man’s shoulder, Nick smiled slightly, “With the rest of the family and Hiriam in Sacramento with Melinda and the kids, nothing will happen to them. They’ll be well watched over.”

Nodding, Heath turned his eyes upwards and his throat was choking him with emotion. “The day after grandfather came back from Virginia was supposed to be my wedding day. It should be today and now, I wonder if it’ll ever happen, Nick. I don’t know if she’ll ever forgive me. It seemed like the thing to do at the time.”

“Heath, you can’t give up hope. Everything will get better with time.” sighed Nick, squeezing the blonde’s shoulder again before Heath started to close the french doors.

Both brothers jumped at the sound of the clanging of the fire bell in the ranch yard. Running outside, Nick and Heath stopped at the sight of the burning bunkhouse roof. Men rushed out of the burning building, coughing and sputtering from the smoke. Buckets of water were gathered and thrown on top of the burning building.

Nate Jackson woken from his sleep joined the others in the fight to save the building. Duke at Nick’s shouted order took a head count of the men fighting the fire, relieved that all appeared to have made it out of the inferno.

Silas had set up a small table away from the frantic men fighting the blaze. He was there with the first aid supplies, ready to help if any of the men needed medical attention. Twenty minutes passed before the fire was under control and the damage inspected.

“Thanks, Nate for your help.” stated Nick as the marshal smiled and headed back to house to retrieve more bandages for Silas.

“Go on, Heath. I’ll finish up out here.” suggested Nick with a gentle push towards the house. “Try to get some sleep.”

Heath walked to the mansion and slowly climbing the stairs, he glanced downwards while he brushed at his shirt covered in soot. Looking up, his head exploded in pain and he didn’t feel the effect on his body from the tumble down the grand staircase.

Martha Simmons was positive the arrival of her nephew at the hotel in Strawberry meant the law was onto the gang. She hadn’t known Heath, now an ex-marshal, was only there to bring a father and son, together face to face, after years of separation. Her assumption killed Matt and Jed, stopped the printing of the bills.

After fleeing Strawberry upon Matt’s death, Martha Simmons traveled to the prison to meet with Nichols, her late husband’s partner. Dan directed the woman to travel to Sacramento and seek out the middle man, Henry Fields. The law arriving in Strawberry forced Nichols to make a desperate escape from prison.

When Martha Simmons arrived in Sacramento with the plates, Henry Fields grew worried and ceased his filtering activities. Martha stayed in Sacramento and was angered weeks later at the news of Fields’ death, his heart attack happening at a most unfortunate time.

Dan Nichols had uncovered Fields’ involvement with an opium dealer and several other less than credible people while working on an unrelated case. Henry Fields held no love for anyone, not even his wife and daughter. All he loved was money and power.

Nichols showed up one day in his office and gave the greedy man an opportunity to expand his networth in a plan which seemed fool proof. Fields’ acceptance was given after the marshal hinted what he knew and would readily expose if the banker didn’t cooperate.

Henry’s responsibility in the partnership was to filter the counterfeit money to the public using his position within the bank. In the city of Sacramento, the banker was considered an honest citizen and a leader in the community. Such a man was ideal and almost above suspicion.

The plan was simple enough.

Dan and his other partners would print the money. Dan would use his position in the marshal service to help the gang keep one step ahead of his fellow lawmen. Matt and Jed would transport the money to Sacramento and Fields would take care of the rest. It was a lucrative business for all involved.

Dan Nichols hadn’t planned on Marshal Heath Thomson uncovering evidence against him and Fremont’s nephew signing a confession which lead to his arrest. The only regret Nichols had while he was in prison was he hadn’t killed Thomson years before at the time his mother been murdered by Terry Parker.

Grace Fields who had grown comfortable with the lifestyle her husband provided to her through the years of the loveless marriage, knew why the other woman was in Sacramento. After Henry’s death, she grew frightened of the implications if anyone found out about her husband’s criminal activity. Her mind screamed out at her, shouting she would be considered an accessory if anyone found out what he’d done.

Self-preservation caused her to steal the plates and leave her home behind. She wanted the evidence out of her house and away from anyone who could connect the metal items with Henry.

Arriving in Stockton, Grace’s tears of joy which fell from her eyes at seeing her daughter were real. She had missed her little girl over the years. The shock of finding out her daughter’s beau was the ex-marshal son of the Barkley family caused her to quell up again with fear.

The ideas burned into her psyche from years of degraded living with her husband couldn’t be put aside in a matter of weeks. Those archaic and prejudicial ideas caused her to be sent packing to Stockton, right into the waiting hands of Dan Nichols.

Dan Nichols had done a complete background check on Fields before he’d made his offer to the man and was aware the daughter of Fields lived in Stockton before he arrived with Jack Larkin and Marshal Fogarty. Stockton was the logical place for Grace Fields to head after she stole the plates from the unsuspecting Martha Simmons.

After searching the home of Melinda Rankin thoroughly, Nichols surprised Grace Fields in her hotel room early that Saturday morning. Gagging and tying the woman, he searched the room, coming up empty handed. With a knife held to her side, he forced the woman to the home of her daughter.

Nichols planned on using the daughter and her children as leverage against the mother to get his plates back, but the house was empty. Grace pleaded for her life as Nichols used his hands to force the whereabouts of the plates from her. In the end, his rage caused his hands to snap her neck, stifling her pleas after the location was revealed.

Dan Nichols spent the last year of his life in jail, his desire for revenge, his focus for a chance at escape driving him through the twelve months of hell, he’d been sentenced to by his own criminal activity.

Prison was not kind to those who once were on the side of justice. He struggled to survive against attempts on his life, beatings from the other inmates, beatings from the guards. His features changed drastically in the past year.

Scars graced his once good looking face, lines from constant worry and backwatching made him look older by ten years. His muscles were hardened by the labor and constant battles he waged in his concrete and steel home. His dark hair creased with gray, hung over his ears, a mustache and beard hid the rest of his face.

His dark eyes watched the parade of people arrive at the small house, his fists clenched tightly at the sight of the former blonde marshal. His presence on the roof across the street was hidden from those on the ground.

Grace Fields had revealed to the escaped convict the location where the plates were hidden on the Barkley ranch, in the Barkley mansion. Moving steadily to the trees, he grabbed the reins of his horse and mounted. Pushing the horse into a gallop, he rode while his mind worked.

Dan Nichols had to figure out how to retrieve the plates from the ranch house without being captured or killed. If the marshal service had taught him anything over the years, it had taught him patience. Staking out the Barkley ranch provided Nichols with the opportune time frame he needed.

His dark eyes glittered while the wagon was packed and headed into Stockton. His eyes were thoughtful when he realized only three remained at the house. Moving away from his position, Nichols turned the problem over in his mind, deciding upon a plan of diversion.

Night had long fallen when the trespasser crept closer to the Barkley buildings. Taking a can of kerosene, he pulled himself quietly up onto the roof of the bunkhouse, on the end which was furthest away from the mansion. Spreading the accelerant, he climbed down and lit a cigarette.

Inhaling, the end of the cigarette glowed red and he tossed it up onto the roof. Instantly, the red end ignited the kerosene and it hungrily licked across the roof. Running to the bell which hung from the other corner of the bunkhouse, he rang it loudly and sprinted away from the light of the flames into the darkness of the shadows. Three men ran past him and he crept into the house through the opened front door.

Hurrying up the steps, he opened the door of the nearest room. Stepping to the window, he glanced down to ensure the men were still busy with the fire. Grabbing the dresser, he moved it away from the wall and felt the back with his hand. Striking a match, he frowned at the lack of the items he was searching for.

Leaving the room, he headed to the next room and continued his search. The last room on the left ended his repetitive search. Grabbing the plates, he headed down the hallway to the staircase, hiding behind the curtain when Heath entered the mansion. Grinning widely at his good fortune, Nichols waited and hit the unsuspecting man in the head with his pistol leaving a wide gash over the right eye of his former peer.

Heath crumpled and fall backwards down the staircase, tumbling like a rag doll and landing with a sickening thud on the wooden floor of the foyer below. Heath’s tumbling stopped with his legs on the stairs, his upper body on the oak flooring. He lay still as a rock.

Nate entered the foyer from the kitchen when Nichols was descending the stairs. Dropping the white bandages, his hand froze above his gun when Nichols pointed his pistol and ordered.

“Move and Thomson’s dead.”

His order stopping Nate’s hand. The gray eyes scorched him with their hatred and watched his every move.

“I’m only here for my property.” growled Nichols, moving slowly to his avenue of escape.

Nichols kept his gun pointed at the unaware blonde man and walked around the obstruction on the stairs. Nichols walked backwards to the front door and Nate moved closer to his prone friend. The men mirrored each other’s movements in a half circle pattern. An evil smile spread across the convict’s face and his finger tightened on the trigger.

Jumping sideways and grabbing his gun, Nate felt the bullet enter his body when he landed on the floor in front of Heath. Throwing a shot at the back of the fleeing man, his bullet entered the muscled body and his gray eyes closed.

The sound of gunfire in the house brought the crew and boss running towards the building, their feet stopped at the sight of the man who staggered outside and leaned against the doorframe before he fell to the ground, the metal plates falling into the dirt of the Barkley ranch.

Running into the house, Nick and Duke knelt by the men laying on the floor at the bottom of the stairs, blood from both men mixed in together on the oak floor.

“Someone get the doctor.” ordered Nick loudly from the floor where his shaky hands started to examine the unconscious men.

“Joe went for the doc and sheriff, boss.” informed Jim. “The one outside is dead.”

Nodding, hazel eyes burned with anger at the large gash on his brother’s forehead. The area of the injury was bleeding profusely, the swelling in the area causing Heath to appear to have a ball under his skin instead of an eyebrow and eye socket.

The strong hands of Nick ran down the limbs of his unconscious brother and his sides, the probing causing groans of pain. Scotty held a cloth to the head wound watching his boss as he made a rough diagnosis.

“Broken ribs, broken left forearm and wrist, split open head and who knows what else.” muttered Nick. “Duke, how’s Nate?”

“He took a bullet in the left side. It’s still in him.” advised Duke working on stopping the bleeding.

“Jim, help me turn Heath while Scotty keeps the bandage on his wound.”

Kneeling on the other side, Jim and Nick carefully turned Heath onto his back. Making a sling out of cloth, Nick’s touch was gentle and firm as he handled the broken extremity, binding it to keep it close to his chest.

The jostling of the arm sent a fiery surge of pain through the unaware man, his head flopped from one side to the other and his right hand reached outward, seeking the cause of the flare up.

“Heath, don’t move.” growled Nick grabbing hold of the seeking right hand and holding it firm in his. “Lay still, Heath!”

Moaning, Heath fought to open his eyes, confused as to why he could only open one. Nick smiled at the cursing from the pain, glad Mother and Audra weren’t there to hear it. He caught the raising of the lid on the left eye and was relieved when a sliver of blue looked outward.

“Nick?” whispered Heath.

“I’m here, little brother.” said Nick placing his face in his brother’s line of sight. “How ya’ feeling?”

“Okay.” was the automatic pain filled whisper.

“Yeah, sure you are.” snorted Nick, holding up two fingers. “How many fingers you see?”

Heath’s eye drooped and he whispered, “Don’t know bout fingers but there’s three of you.”

“I’d venture to say you earned yourself a concussion, boy.” advised Nick with a shake of his head.

“What happened?” moaned Heath before losing the battle to stay awake against the pain stealing him into the darkness.

“Nichols.” stated Nick quietly wondering if Heath had heard him. “Let’s get these two upstairs into bed. Silas, you help Duke take care of Nate til the doc gets here.”

Hours later, the sun was high in the sky and Nick sat in a chair by the bed which contained his sleeping brother, twit brained from laudanum. Left arm and wrist encased in plaster, a wrap wound around his stomach holding his fractured ribs in place, stitches on his forehead covered by gauze held in place by a bandage tied around his head, tufts of blonde hair peeked out from under the cloth. A concussion topped off the list of injuries.

Bruising dotted every part of Heath from his unceremonious fall down the grand staircase. Even though it was carpeted, Dr. Merar stated he’d be feeling every inch of the fall for the next week or so.

Nate lay sleeping in the next room being tended to by a rotating shift of Barkley hands. A mild fever started to rise in the man from the foreign object that had been embedded in his body. The crew volunteered for sick duty when Nate woke briefly to reveal what happened after Dr. Merar took the piece of lead from his ribs.

The marshal’s act of unselfishness had undoubtedly saved their marshal boss. The crew was indebted to the thin man for keeping him alive and keeping his promise to them.

After leaving Heath in Silas’ care at the request of Fred Maden, Nick had followed the sheriff outside and knelt by the expired convict on the ground. Nick’s eyes trailed the deep scratches which graced the face of the dead man.

“I bet he got these from Mrs. Fields.” stated Fred explaining to Nick, the blood and skin found under the nails of Melinda’s mother.

“Now we know who murdered her.” sighed Nick standing. “The boys give you the plates?”

Nodding, Fred motioned to Billy who helped lay Nichols across the saddle. “I have them. Nick, you want me to wire Jarrod in Sacramento?”

“That’d be helpful, Fred.” replied Nick walking the man to his horse. “Marshal Thane went back to Houston. Can you wire him too?”

Agreeing to handle the details and extending their well wishes to the injured men, Fred and Billy left the ranch with the dead man. After handing out work details to Duke for the upcoming morning, Nick relieved Silas and slept in the chair by Heath’s bed.

Nick stood on the platform, anxiously waiting for the incoming train. Two weeks had passed since Nichols appeared at the ranch. The family members in Sacramento planned to return home immediately at news of the two injured men but Nick’s answer back stated everything was fine and there was no need to rush. In a separate wire to Jarrod, Nick clearly stated he wanted Heath to have time to handle knowing Nichols was Mrs. Fields’ murderer.

Two days later, the blonde’s eyes were guilt ridden at the news given to him when he woke with clarity for the first time. Nick was surprised when after several hours of silence, Heath took hold of his brother’s hand.

“At least we know who did it, Nick.” informed Heath quietly. “Not knowing would be worst, wouldn’t you agree?”

Patting the hand, Nick agreed, “Yeah, you’re right about that.”

“I don’t know..” paused Heath.

“You don’t know, what?” puzzled Nick.

Frowning, Heath sighed, “Nick, well, I don’t know if it’ll make a difference to Melinda or not. She was really angry when she left.”

“I know she was, Heath. I think she’s had enough time to realize she was acting out of grief and sadness.” replied Nick, the hope in his voice not felt inside his heart.

“Maybe. Can I see Nate?” requested Heath, his left eye pleading since the right was still swollen shut.

Putting his hands on his hips, Nick stared down at the battered brother, his face and deep voice thoughtful. “I don’t know, Heath. If a fly flew by it could knock you on your ass.”

A grin flashed across Heath’s face and he said quietly, “As long as you’re by my side, I’ll chance it.”

“Like a shadow, little brother.” assured Nick helping the shaky man to his feet, receiving a one armed hug and a whisper of brotherly love.

Returning the hug, Nick held onto Heath’s arm and assisted him next door. Sitting him in a chair by the bed, he frowned at the sweat running down Heath’s face from the short trip.

“You get worse and doc will string me up.” growled Nick wiping the sweat away with a cloth.

Nate grinned from his place in the bed, “I don’t know, Nick. He looks better to me this way.”

Rolling his left eye, Heath snorted, “Nick, now we know who’s really twit brained.”

Laughing loudly, Nick left the room promising to send Silas up with some food for the two friends. Heath leaned forward and squeezed Nate’s hand.

“Thanks, Nate.” smiled Heath gratefully.

Returning the squeeze, Nate grinned, “Now, I only owe you one.”

“I think you better study math again.” snorted Heath settling back in the chair. “What kind of schools they got in Texas anyway?”

Winking, Nate smirked, “Only the best my friend! Only the best!”

Silas appeared with a tray, his keen ears catching the bantering between the two men and his face widened in a smile. Setting the tray on the bedside table, Silas helped Nate to sit up against the headboard propped up with pillows.

Heath and Nate’s anticipating faces fell when a bowl of porridge was set before each man. Heath groaned from displeasure while Nate stared at the bowl’s contents and poked at it with a spoon.

“Mr. Silas, what’s this? Baby food?” drawled Nate, his lips curled in disgust. “Guess I ain’t got to worry about buying new jeans with grub like this.”

Howard stood in the doorway, unsuccessful in an attempt to hide his grin. Two of the strongest men he knew looked like they wanted to hightail it away from the porridge placed in front of them. Silas shushed the protests and ordered the two to eat as that was all they was getting.

Patting the older man on the shoulder as he left the room, Howard smiled, “You boys be good and eat all that’s in front of you, maybe then we’ll talk about something more substantial.”

Twin glares were directed at the physician before hands slowly made their way towards the spoons and the first tiny step into the porridge diet was taken. After the unsatisfying breakfast, Howard examined both men and helped Heath back to his room to rest. Satisfied with the progress of both men, Howard had left the ranch advising Nick to let him know if anything changed.

Nick’s thoughts were pierced by the sound of the far off whistle of the black shining locomotive rumbling up the tracks. The train crept to a stop at its destination. Nick scanned the passengers disembarking and hurried towards the last car at the sight of Hiriam and then Jarrod climbing down. Reaching up, Hiriam helped Audra to the ground while Jarrod assisted his Mother.

Reaching the family, Nick greeted everyone and answered the multitude of questions launched at him over the welfare of the two injured men. Looking around, Nick asked, “Where’s Melinda and the kids?”

Heath smiled widely, his face bearing the faint traces of bruises, lit up with happiness at the surrey entering the ranch yard. Nate felt a nudge in his side and followed Heath’s trail of sight.

“I swear Heath your sister is more beautiful every time I see her.” drawled Nate with a wink towards Scotty.

Grumbling under his breath, Heath growled, “Keep your eyes off my sister.”

Scotty chuckled as Nate put an arm across his friend’s shoulders, “Now, Heath, I never said that to you about my sister.”

Rolling his eyes, Heath smirked, “No, you just kept trying to get me to marry her so she’d stay out of your hair and off your horses.”

“Well, heck! How many guys ya’ know have a sister that can out ride them?” complained Nate as they walked towards the surrey.

Nate stood by Nick and watched the family greeting their blonde member. Leaning over, he whispered, “Nick, where’s Melinda?”

Not taking his eyes off the reunion, Nick shook his head and Nate swore under his breath. The two men watched as Victoria took Heath’s arm and lead him away from the eyes of the rest of the family.

There were few times in life which the two older male men of the Barkley family felt helpless and stood with uncertainty filling their very being. Jarrod moved to stand by Nick, the two men walked away from the others, following their Mother and Heath’s path in the distance.

Victoria held onto Heath’s arm leading the gentle man away from the hearing of others. Stopping under a tree, Heath cleared a space and helped his Mother to a place in the shade provided by the outreaching branches. Smiling her thanks, Victoria waited until Heath lowered himself to a spot beside her and leaned against the tree.

Gazing into the light gray eyes, Heath’s sigh was barely audible, “Melinda’s not coming back, is she Mother?”

Taking a hold of his right hand, Victoria’s eyes dropped and she gathered her thoughts while tracing her thumb over the large scarred knuckles. Anger at the young woman’s decision had turned to despair on the trip back to Stockton. Despair as to how to explain one’s life changing decision to another.

Heath closed his eyes briefly, the caress of his hand brought back memories from the familiar touch.

“My mama used to hold my hand like this and run her thumb over my knuckles when she was worried.” informed Heath quietly, catching a look of surprise in his Mother’s eyes. “She was a lot like you, Mother.”

“She had silver hair and gray eyes?” teased Victoria softly, surprised at Heath’s train of thought and conversation.

Flashing a grin, Heath’s eyes sparkled, “No, but you both have the same mother’s touch. If you had met in a different place or in a different lifetime, I think you may have become the best of friends.”

Thoughtful, Victoria squeezed his hand. “If Leah’s soul was anything like yours, Heath, I’m positive we would’ve been. She must have been an extraordinary person to have raised a son by herself, in the conditions she had to.”

Sighing, Heath’s eyes were taken back years, “I know we’ve never spoken about my mama and, uh, father. I think the reason he loved her was because of you, Mother.”

“Because of me?” puzzled Victoria.

“Yes, you two are alike and share many similar traits. You have the same inner glow, the same motherly love, the same laugh and the same sense of what your family means to you. I think Father missed you so much when you were apart, he found you in my mama.” explained Heath, his eyes glistening suddenly.

“Oh, Heath. I’m sorry for the pain it must cause you to see the similarities.” whispered Victoria, her eyes filled with pain. “I never knew you saw those things when you look at me.”

Shaking his head, Heath grabbed her hand, “No, Mother, if anything it reminds me how lucky of a man I am. I’m reminded that I’ve been fortunate enough to have two mothers love me unconditionally, fight for me unselfishly and box my ears when I’ve needed it.”

Laughing, Victoria wiped her eyes and caressed his cheek. “You are my son and that’s my job as a mother. A job I’ve never give up for anything.”

The amusement faded from the sapphire eyes and Heath turned his gaze out towards the horizon. Several minutes passed before his whisper reached her ears, “Life’s not very fair, is it?’

“No, it’s not.” agreed Victoria taking in the bruised profile of her son. Reaching over, she ran her fingers through his blonde hair and saw a single tear trickle out of the corner of his eye.

“In books, I know it’s said love conquers everything, but in reality, sometimes even love cannot overcome. I’d do anything to take this pain from you, sweetheart.” stated Victoria softly, receiving a slight nod at her declaration. “I have a letter. She asked me to deliver it to you.”

“Would you mind if I read it in private?” asked Heath, wiping his cheek as he continued to gaze at the horizon.

Turning his face towards her, Victoria replied, “There is someone for everyone in the world, Heath. Don’t let this stop you from finding that someone. In time, the pain will fade although it may never completely go away and really, it shouldn’t. A part of you will always love her. Remember, you have all of us, your family, to help you when it gets too difficult.”

Staring into the love filled gray eyes, Heath nodded and climbed to his feet. Holding out a hand, he pulled his Mother to her tiny feet and stared at the letter she took out of her pocket.

Taking it in his hand, he placed a gentle kiss on both her cheeks, wrapping his right arm around her, he smiled and kissed her silver hair, “I love you, Mother. I’m glad you’re home.”

Victoria leaned back against the tree, her tearing eyes watched as Heath turned to walk further away from the ranch buildings, seeking a place of asylum to open and read the letter. Nick and Jarrod’s steps towards their brother was stopped by their Mother’s firm command.

“Not now, boys.”

Hours later, sitting on a hill in the middle of the grass blowing gently in the breeze, Heath’s eyes stared at the horizon, his hand clenching the unopened letter. Wiping the sweat from his forehead, he itched under the beginning of his cast, his eyes falling downwards to read the writing.

‘Like a shadow’ written in ink with Nick’s familiar scrawl. A smile lit up Heath’s face and he took a deep breath. His hand shook as he opened the envelope and gently straightened the paper.

Heath,

It is said adversity is the test of one’s endurance and inner strength. I’ve been tested and I have failed. Unfortunately, my weakness has caused those around me a considerable amount of pain from my failure.

I now realize I am not strong enough to stand beside you in the future. I’m afraid and that fear is overwhelming me. I thought my love for you would be enough, but the recent events have proven to me, it is not.

I’m sorry for giving you false hope. I find I am wondering if you’ll always be there for me. You are a wonderful person and deserve someone who will love you without reservation.

I know you were only trying to protect me and the children. You did not deserve the treatment I gave you out of anger and grief. All I can ask is you can somehow find it in you to forgive me for the pain I have caused.

Melinda

Nick and Jarrod found their brother sitting on the hill, eyes closed and facing the setting sun. Heath felt two strong hands squeeze his shoulders and he sighed, the tears having stopped hours ago.

Two older brothers each kept a hand on a shoulder, no words spoken but the connection between the three could be felt all around them in the summer air. Their support given and accepted in the silence of the twilight of the evening.

Nate Jackson returned to his family’s ranch in Texas a week after the Barkleys returned from Sacramento. Before leaving, he secured a promise to return and visit the Jackson family’s ranch from Heath.

Time was spent in the trial of Barrett and Benton. After the trial, Benton was shipped back east where he was wanted on several other charges and faced more trials. Barrett was sentenced to five years in prison for his role in the attempted kidnapping of Heath Thomson.

The sun rises and the sun sets, days begin and end, time passes even if you want to stop the world from moving. As with all things, there is no constant. Things as constantly changing and there is constantly work to be done on a ranch. The constant work a godsend if one wanted to seek a way to drain themselves physically so the nights were shorter and be worked to a frazzle, falling into a sleep of exhaustion.

So, it was the pattern for several months which the family around the blonde son witnessed and frowned at. Heath worked the ranch during the day, rising early and heading out before anyone was awake.

Stopping his ranch work mid afternoon, he would ride over to the house Hiriam purchased on his return from Sacramento. Working around the building, gave Heath time needed to further enhance his relationship with his grandfather.

Standing in the yard, grandfather and grandson, looked at the house before them. Heath put an arm over the older man’s shoulders and said, “I think you can add construction worker to the list of jobs you’ve done over the years, grandfather.”

Chuckling, Hiriam nodded. “It wouldn’t have been possible without you, Heath.”

Waving off the kind words, Heath took off his hat and wiped the sweatband. Hiriam snickered at the hair pulled back into a ponytail. “I see Nick hasn’t gotten to you yet like he threatened.”

Laughing, the blonde’s head shook and he grinned, “I think Mother hid the scissors.”

Entering the house, Heath sat at the kitchen table while Hiriam made coffee. “How are you doing, Heath?”

Smiling slightly, Heath sighed, “I’m fine, grandfather. It’s not as bad as it was.”

Patting the strong hand, Hiriam nodded, “I’m here if you need to talk.”

Standing, Heath wrapped the older man into a hug, “I know, grandfather. Thank you.”

Walking into the mansion, Heath followed the daily ritual of taking off his gun and hat, placing them on a round table.

“Heath, if I was you I’d hide out in the barn for a while.”

Puzzled, Heath looked over at his little sister, “Why?”

“Nick’s on the warpath.” stated Audra.

“SILAS, WHERE’S MY BLACK VEST?” shouted Nick loudly from his bedroom.

Silas entered the foyer, muttering as he ascended the stairs, “Boys got least ten black vests, think he’d able to find one.”

“What’s got Nick’s britches in a twist?” wondered Heath outloud.

Laughing at the question he heard when he entered the foyer, Jarrod clapped his little brother on the back. “Seems our brother has a date with the new school teacher tonight. It’s taken him months to get her to agree.”

The sapphire eyes lit up. “Really? Months, huh?”

Audra and Jarrod saw the look in the ocean eyes and both siblings smiled widely.

“Yes, Heath. She’s been very elusive.” informed Audra.

“Excuse me!” whispered Heath and ran up the stairs.

Audra held onto Jarrod’s arm and the two giggled happily at the shout of indignation.

“WATCH WHERE YOU’RE GOING, BOY!”

“Sorry, Nick!”

Heath ran down the hallway and down the grand staircase. Flying past Audra and Jarrod, he opened the door and ran outside.

“WHAT’S WRONG WITH THAT BOY?” shouted Nick from the balcony down to his other siblings.

“He didn’t say, Nick.” called Jarrod from below.

Stalking into the foyer, Victoria stated loudly, “Will you please stop running and shouting in the house!”

“Sorry, Mother.” was heard throughout the house.

Jarrod lead Audra and Victoria into the parlor, listening to their events of the day. An hour passed before Heath came running in and slid to a stop on the wooden floor.

“Sorry, Mother.” apologized Heath sitting in a chair and grabbing a newspaper to hold in front of his face.

A raised eyebrow was directed towards Jarrod, who shrugged in response. Nick entered the parlor, bowing at the compliments directed to him from his Mother and siblings. Looking at the raised newspaper, Nick sighed and shook his head, his hazel eyes showing concern.

“Hey, Heath.”

“Yeah, Nick?” asked Heath from behind the paper.

“Heath, I can’t see you with that paper in front of you.” growled Nick in exasperation.

Lowering the paper, Heath looked into the hazel eyes, “Sorry, Nick. You want something?”

“I ain’t seen you for a few days. Where you been?”

“We finished grandfather’s house today.” replied Heath quietly. “It looks real good.”

“That’s great! Well, I better be going.” explained Nick. “I’ll see you all at breakfast in the morning.”

Hearing the front door close, Heath threw the paper to the side and ran to the window. Inside the house, an unearthly howl could be heard from the outside.

“WHAT THE HELL? WHO DID THIS?”

“HEEAAATTTHHH!!!!”

Spying, Nick coming back to the house, Heath ran past the foyer into the study. Nick caught the blue blur running past and followed in a flash. The other family members hurried into the room where Nick was chasing the blonde around the room.

“When I get my hands on you..” threatened Nick.

Heath’s eyes were filled with tears of laughter and his body shaking. “Now, Nick. It was all in fun.”

“What are you boys doing?” asked Victoria, happy to see a spark in Heath’s eyes. “Nicholas?”

Stopping, Nick turned his back to Heath and faced his Mother and other siblings, winking at them, he stated angrily, “Just look at what he’s done! It’s not right, Mother!”

Leading the family out of the study, they left the front door and walked over to the hitching rail. Tied to the rail was Coco, mane and tail braided with bright colored hair ribbons.

Heath leaned against the post and chuckled, “Coco looks as pretty as you tonight, Nick.”

Nick suddenly grabbed the blonde only to find his brother’s reflexes faster and leaving him laying in the dirt on his back, shocked at the turn of events. Heath knelt beside Nick and grimaced, “Sorry, Nick. It was an automatic response.”

“Damn boy, someday you gotta teach me those moves.” groaned Nick accepting the hand and climbing to his feet.

Putting an arm across his little brother’s shoulders, Nick shook his head, “I was wondering what you did with those ribbons. That’s what I get for wondering.”

Smirking, Heath winked, “I’ll take them out for you.”

Heath found his progress stopped with a firm hand on his arm. Looking over, Nick called out, “Scotty, can you take Coco back to his stall and take out his braids?”

The directive causing several hands to bust out with laughter and Nick to turn crimson.

“Nick, ain’t you been trying to get this date for months?” asked Heath after Scotty lead the horse back to the barn.

Clapping the smaller man on the back, Nick shook his head, “Heath, I don’t know who insinuated that but Nick Barkley does not beg women for dates! Com’n Jarrod, let’s play a brotherly game of pool before dinner.”

Nick pulled Heath back into the house, Jarrod followed with his Mother and sister. Their grins hard to keep off their faces at the familiar bantering between their connected family members.

“If ya’ don’t beg, do ya’ bribe them?”

“Boy, you’re lucky I’m in such a good mood!”

“This is a good mood?”

“Smart ass!”

“Twit brain!”