Trouble Brewing in Thunder Creek

Evernight Publishing www.evernightpublishing.com

Copyright© 2012 Lorraine Nelson

ISBN: 978-1-927368-33-6

Cover Artist: LF Designs Editor: Dana Horbach

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

WARNING: The unauthorized reproduction or distribution of this copyrighted work is illegal. No part of this book may be used or reproduced electronically or in print without written permission, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in reviews. This is a work of fiction. All names, characters, and places are fictitious. Any resemblance to actual events, locales, organizations, or persons, living or dead, is entirely coincidental.

DEDICATION I'm dedicating this book to Kathleen King Grieve for taking the time out of her busy schedule to provide expert assistance with the medical aspects of my novels.

TROUBLE BREWING IN THUNDER CREEK Thunder Creek Ranch, 3 Lorraine Nelson Copyright © 2012

Prologue Lucas Manning Sr. walked toward Winnie, his wife of three years, and wrapped her in his arms, holding her tight against his heart. His love for this woman knew no bounds, but what he had to tell her was going to hurt her badly. He released her, took her by the hand and led her to the living room where they sat on the sofa, side-by-side. “You’re scaring me, Lucas. What’s happened? Did they catch Zakia’s stalker? Are the kids really all right?” “They caught him,” he admitted. “Luke, Zakia and their twins are fine, but….” “But? But what?” Lucas heaved a heavy sigh. There just wasn’t an easy way to break news like this. “It turns out that Roy was Zakia’s stalker.” “Roy? My Roy? No! There must be some mistake,” she said, pulling away from him. “He wouldn’t do such a thing!” She jumped to her feet and paced the room, her agitation plain to see. “Winnie, they caught him red-handed. He’s been arrested, and they’re holding him in the Calgary jail to await a preliminary hearing.” “In jail? I must go to him!” Winnie rushed from the room, Lucas on her heels. He grabbed her arm to still her forward momentum, the action turning her into his arms. “Let me go! I need to see Roy.” Tears streaked down her cheeks as she pounded furiously on his chest, but he held tight.

“Shhh! Calm down. He’s not allowed visitors yet. If you want to see him, I can drive you up later.” “Why Roy? Why are they picking on my boy? He’s been doing so good. He couldn’t have done this.” She collapsed against him and sobbed hysterically. He eased them back toward the living room and sat on the sofa, pulling her down on his lap to comfort her as best he could. He’d never been much good around crying females. It made him feel helpless in the face of their distress, and he didn’t like feeling that way at all. Not one little whistling bit. Suddenly, she sat up straight, swiping a hand across her eyes to brush away the tears. “A lawyer! Lucas, we have to get him a good lawyer.” “Like hell we will! He got himself into this mess, and I’m not about to be the one to bail him out of it,” Lucas thundered. “But he’s innocent! He has to be! He wouldn’t hurt anyone. Please, Lucas!” “Nope. He terrorized my family, and I won’t lift a finger to help him.” Angrily, she stood and faced him. “Roy’s your family, too. You became his step-daddy when we married.” “Maybe so, but I’ve drawn the line.” Tiredly, he rose to his feet. He didn’t want to hurt her but this emotional outpouring for her no-good scum of a son was wearing on his nerves. “He used us—used family ties to ride along with the round-up. He intended to hurt Luke and his family, and he came damned close to succeedin’. I know this is difficult for you, honey, but you have to realize what’s at stake here.” “Roy’s life is at stake here! I can’t just sit and do nothing. I’m going up there. I need to hear his side of things.” “Fine, I’ll take you.” “No, I don’t think so. You’ve made your position quite plain. I’ll drive myself and get to the bottom of this. They’ve made a mistake, I tell you. A huge mistake.” She turned on her heel, went through to the kitchen, grabbed her purse and car keys then paused at the door. “I pray they’re wrong, Lucas.” Worried eyes sought his but he couldn’t give her the hope she waited for. “For your sake, I wish they were. Drive safe.”

With a nod in his direction, she left. He watched her from the back porch as she reversed her flashy red Mustang convertible and headed down the driveway, taking a piece of his heart with her. Her eyesight wasn’t what it used to be, and he worried about her. He should have insisted on driving her to the city. Maybe it’s for the best that he didn’t go near Roy right now. His anger toward the man hadn’t abated one whit. How such a gentle woman could produce the devil’s own spawn was a mystery. Roy didn’t deserve his mother’s love. She’d bailed him out of enough trouble when he was younger. Now this. Even from behind bars, Roy’s latest shenanigans were still causing trouble in his family. Only this time, it was his marriage on the line, and he knew it.

Chapter One Winnie arrived at the remand center and had to enter through a security checkpoint. She was slightly embarrassed to have the contents of her purse emptied into a bin, especially when they looked at her accusingly and confiscated her nail scissors and file. No alarms went off as she walked through the barrier, and she followed the guard to an empty waiting area. There she sat in a hard, uncomfortable chair with a guard stationed at the door, while someone went to fetch Roy. Her guard finally led her to a long narrow room, divided by partitions that kept the inmates separate from visitors. Roy sat at one of the stations, drumming his fingers nervously on the counter in front of him. She rushed over, threw her purse on the floor and dropped into the chair facing him. “Roy, what’s going on? Why are you here? Did someone set you up? I know there’s been a mistake. It has to be a mistake.” He shook his head and motioned for her to pick up the phone, which she hadn’t even noticed in her hurry to talk to him. “Hello?” she said, a little more calmly now the initial surge of relief at seeing him was over. “Roy? Are you all right?” “Ma, I’m in jail. How all right could I be?” he answered in a sarcastic tone. “Please tell me this is all a mistake. You didn’t do all those things, did you?” “Of course not! You have to get me out of here.” With a sigh of relief, she smiled and said, “How? Tell me what to do. Do you want me to call a lawyer?” He smiled back and spoke into the receiver. “No, I have a lawyer. Spoke to him already. The preliminary hearing is Monday morning at nine a.m., and I need you to be there. Bring as much cash as you can get your hands on and be ready to bail me out.” “How much are you talking about? Our money is all tied up in the ranch. You know that, Roy.” “Maybe so, but marrying a rich husband should have given you access to Thunder Creek funds. Use that.” She gasped. “Lucas would never agree to that.”

“So don’t ask!” he said in a hard tone, then softened his voice to a pleading whine that tugged at her heartstrings. “Mama, I need to get out of here. My cellmate is a big, burly guy I don’t dare turn my back on. I’m scared, Mama.” “I’ll see what I can do,” she promised. “Is there anything you need?” “I don’t intend to be in here long enough to need anything. Just make sure you’re in court Monday morning.” “All right, dear, I’ll be there. I love you, Roy.” The guard stepped up beside her. “Time’s up.” “I have to leave now. See you Monday and take care.” “Bye, Mama,” he said, then hung up the phone and turned away from her, only to be handcuffed and escorted out of the room. She hated to leave him here. She sighed. There was nothing she could do until Monday. Her mind churned with questions. How could she get her hands on some money? She had a few thousand in her savings, but would that be enough? She didn’t dare ask Lucas–did she? **** Lucas walked over to the corral to lean against the railing and watch the horses chase each other. He sighed, wishing he had half their energy. Tonight, he felt his age, all forty-seven years of it. How could he reassure Winnie of his love and devotion without lifting a finger to help her son, Roy? Damn it! Roy was family, although it sorely strained him to admit it. What he’d done was unforgivable, yet Winnie stubbornly held onto the belief that he was innocent. Could he be? Surely Blake, as head of the R.C.M.P. detachment in Fort McLeod, wouldn’t make a mistake like that. His son, Luke Jr., and Blake Northrup had been best friends since childhood. Lucas wondered for a brief moment if their friendship had influenced a too quick resolution to the case. No, the evidence had to point to Roy in order for him to be arrested and charged. Lucas pushed away from the fence and walked the short distance to the ranch house. He washed up at the outside tap and toed off his boots, leaving them on the back porch. Winnie had made tea and sandwiches for their night lunch, and he crossed to where she sat at the old oak table, her head in her hands. “Hello, luv. Were you waitin’ on me?”

She gasped and sat upright, bumping her head against his chin as he bent to nuzzle her neck. “Lucas! I didn’t hear you come in.” He rubbed his chin and smiled. “Heavy thoughts?” “Yes, I’m so worried about Roy.” Her face pinched and pale, she looked up at him, her eyes pleading for understanding. He hated that she worried so much. “I know you are, but there’s nothing we can do until Monday.” “We, Lucas?” “Yes, we. We’ll go to the hearing and see what evidence they have against him. If it sounds like he’s innocent and if he’s allowed out on bail, we’ll discuss it then.” She jumped up and threw her arms around his neck, kissing him and holding him tight. “I knew you wouldn’t let me down. I just knew it!” He held her and leaned in for another kiss, his heart in his throat. He didn’t ever want to let this woman down, but a niggling feeling in his gut told him they’d arrested the right man. Why hadn’t he prodded Blake for more details? For Winnie’s sake, he hoped the evidence against Roy was circumstantial. The intensity of his thoughts caused the kiss to deepen and passion ignited a roaring flame. His erection pressed against the zipper of his jeans, straining to break free. Winnie rubbed against him, letting him know without words that she was aware of the effect. “Shall we lock up and hit the hay?” Lucas whispered in her ear. “Morning does come early for a rancher,” she teased, “but I have your tea ready.” “My appetite is veering toward other things at the moment.” “Then you’d better stay hungry while I put the tea things away.” Winnie gave him a shrewd once-over and palmed his shaft, giving it a gentle rub. “You’re not helping matters any,” he groaned. “Is that a compliment or a complaint?” “Argh, woman! You drive me crazy.” She giggled as she pulled away to clean up the kitchen then joined hands with him as they went down the hall toward the front of the house. Lucas ducked sideways to lock the front door, and she halted to wait for him. “Come on, woman. We can’t stand around here all night.”

“I didn’t intend to, dear.” She sashayed ahead of him, her buns still firm and lush. His passion rose at the provocative sway of her hips. Closing the bedroom door, he hauled her into his arms and kissed her properly, running his fingers through the short, sassy curls adorning her head. Her hands worked the buttons on his shirt loose, baring his chest for her exploring touch. When she tweaked his tiny nipples, he groaned and pulled back, wanting to free her breasts so he could do the same. Not bothering with the fasteners, he slipped the blouse over her head and had her bra undone in a heartbeat. “Beautiful,” he said as he cupped their fullness, bending to suckle each puckered nipple in turn. He dropped to his knees and pressed his face to her belly, easily undoing her jeans to slide them down over her hips. His lips rained kisses on her exposed skin and he delighted in inhaling her fresh, feminine scent. She rested her hands on his shoulders and stepped out of her jeans, her silky panties the only barrier to his rapt gaze. He stood, picked her up, and carried her to the bed, laying her down atop the covers to wait as he disposed of the rest of his clothes. He sniffed the air. “I smell like the barn. I’ll go have a quick shower.” “Want me to wash your back?” she asked, her voice soft and sexy. “Well now, darlin’, I thought you’d never ask.” He smiled as she rose to her feet then, taking her hand, led her through to the en suite bath. The warm water sluiced over their hot bodies in a rushing stream as they stood entwined in the tiny stall. Her kisses tasted like chocolate mint from the candy bars they’d snacked on earlier. She poured a liberal amount of his shower gel into her palm. “Turn around.” He did as requested, and she dutifully soaped his back. As her hands moved to soap his chest, she rubbed her breasts against him, and he shivered in response to the sensations rioting through his body. When her hands reached to soap his cock, he gasped, taking in a mouthful of water, which he promptly spewed out. “Lady, you sure are full of surprises,” he said as he turned to face her, rinsing off under the spray before turning the taps off. He

grabbed a towel and dried her body, his ministrations causing exquisite little moans to escape her lips. Quickly drying himself, he tossed the towel aside and wrapped an arm around her waist. Side-by-side, they walked through to the bedroom where he could make love to her in comfort. He loved this woman. He’d shown her every day in every way he could, but the words themselves didn’t come easy, not since his first wife died and took a piece of his heart with her. As they lay down, he cuddled close and worshipped her body with his hands and mouth, old memories pushed to the farthest recesses of his mind. Her breasts spilled from his hands as he massaged their silky softness. “So damned soft. I could play with them all night long.” She clutched his head urging him forward to taste her rosy buds. “Be my guest.” He laved a tongue over a nipple, teasing before pulling it into his mouth, his hand pinching the other one. Her soft murmur of delight spurred him on. He let go of her breast, with a light bite, trailing kisses down over her abdomen to reach the honeyed prize nested in reddish curls. Her legs spread for him, the most feminine part of her open and waiting for his attention. She tasted like honey, her essence sweet on his tongue as he lapped at the wetness. Soon, he had her writhing in readiness, eager to join her body with his, but he held off, wanting to make this a special night for her to remember. **** When the climax seized her, she screamed his name. He rose to his knees, straddling her, entering her in one huge thrust, his mighty shaft filling her completely. Gone were the days of do-ityourself pleasure. This man satisfied her needs better than any who’d come before. He paused, as he always did, allowing her body to adjust before beginning to move. Time and again, she moved to meet him as he pushed forward and withdrew, in and out in an ever-increasing rhythm. She dug her heels into the bed trying to lift her body closer, to feel him deeper and deeper still. Her insides convulsed around his cock in a second climax as Lucas shot his load, spilling his seed deep inside.

For a moment, he slumped on top of her then rolled to the side, holding her tight against him as his hand played with her breast. “Mmmm, that feels nice,” she said. She moved her hand to his chest, stroking in light circles so he could feel the same. “Relaxing.” “Relaxing, is it? Yes, I suppose so. I love the feel of your soft hands on my skin—almost like having my own personal masseuse.” “I love touching you and being touched by you,” she said, rising up to plant a kiss on his lips. “And I’d better be your only personal masseuse.” He chuckled. “Lady, you’re all I can handle.” “Good!” She curled up to his side, her head on his chest, thinking over the day’s events. “Lucas, do you really think Roy is guilty?” “I don’t know, luv. Blake seemed certain, and it’s not like him to falsely accuse.” “Maybe not, but he is Luke’s friend. He could have acted too hastily in charging Roy to tie up loose ends, you know? Put Luke and Zakia at ease.” “I’m not sure I like that idea. If Roy wasn’t responsible, that means the threat to them is still out there.” “You’d rather believe Roy is guilty?” “Not at all. But if he isn’t, it sure puts a different spin on things.” “I wish we knew more. This waiting is driving me crazy!” “Want me to call Blake and see if I can find out the details?” he suggested. She took a quick glance at the clock. “No, it’s too late to call now. I wouldn’t want to bother him just to ease my mind. Besides….” She allowed her voice to trail off, not wanting to speak the words aloud. “It may not be what you want to hear.” “No, but why would Roy lie to me?” She grabbed the sheet, twisting the edges into a knotted mess. “Could be he had to watch what he said with the guards listenin’ and all.” “Umm, maybe.” “There’s no use worryin’ yerself sick. We’ll find out the truth of the matter come Monday mornin’.” “I’m afraid for him, Lucas.”

“As any parent would be. Go to sleep now. The rest will do you good.” He hugged her tight, and she felt him brush the hair back from her forehead before he kissed her. This man was so gentle and caring, but what if Roy was guilty? Could she depend on him then? Would he even want her around—a daily reminder of the terror his kids had gone through these past months? With a tired sigh, she pushed her worries away and took comfort in having him near. Tomorrow could take care of itself. She’d worry about it then. **** Lucas feasted his gaze on his wife’s naked body as she flung back the blankets, prepared to rise. “Not so fast, woman.” He reached over and pulled her against him, his erection hard to miss as it prodded her belly. “But Lucas…the chores.” “Let ‘em wait. I intend to have me some lovin’ this mornin’.” He kissed her then, a long, passion-filled kiss that had her clinging to him in response. “Oh my, yes! Love me, Lucas.” “Always, my darlin’, always.” He rolled to his back, pulling her on top of him as he went. “Ride me, sweetheart. Let me watch you as you ride herd on my cock.” She stroked his erection, driving him almost over the edge before she mounted him, impaling herself on his hardened length. “See what you do to me? One look at that beautiful body gilded by the sun and I had to have you.” She starting rising up and lowering herself down on him, her breath coming in short pants as she replied, “Lucas, you say such wonderful things, but shut up and get busy. It’s not fair to make me do all the work.” “Glad to oblige.” He chuckled and raised his upper body to suck on a turgid nipple. In response, she rode harder, faster. His hands fastened on her waist as he hugged her upper body closer. The climax, when it came, forced him backward on the bed, and he thrust up into her warmth a few more times to bring her release. Sated at last, they collapsed in a worn heap, still joined together. “Wow!” She mouthed against his chest.

“Uh, huh,” he agreed, unable to find his voice, his breathing harsh and ragged. “Can we get up now?” “Thought I was already up.” He joked as she raised her body to a sitting position. “Well, there’s up and then there’s up, up.” She giggled. “I much prefer the former but I have to do the grocery shopping, and it gets too busy later. He feigned a long-suffering sigh, pulling her back for one last kiss before she could get away. “Yeah, and the chores won’t do themselves, more’s the pity.” “You love ranching so there’ll be no pity from me.” “You’re a hard woman, Mrs. Manning.” “Have to be to handle a hard-headed man like you, Mr. Manning.” She stepped into the bathroom, and a moment later, he heard the shower running. He rose and dressed, knowing he’d return for his shower after mucking out the stalls. Maybe he could even talk her into washing his back again. Smiling at the thought, he left the room, went to the half bath to wash up and then walked into the kitchen to start coffee. He was just taking his first sip when she appeared in the kitchen. She had a gorgeous figure and filled out her jeans better than she had a right to…and that cleavage—he salivated with the barest glance at the V of her curve-hugging T-shirt. “I’ll have breakfast ready in a jiffy,” she said as she hauled food out of the fridge, her derriere stuck up in invitation. He walked up behind her and placed a hand on her hip as she straightened back up, nuzzling into her neck for a quick hug. “Great! I’m starving! You look and smell so delicious, I could eat you.” She laughed, and Lucas heard her whistling as she worked, happy to be in control of the kitchen. “You Manning men are always starving,” Winnie said, smiling to take the sting out of her words. “I don’t know where you put it all.” **** Winnie found herself in her husband’s arms again as soon as breakfast was over. She liked that he was so spontaneous in his loving. After a scorching, mind-numbing kiss, he said, “Just a little something to tide me over.” Smiling, he left for the barn.

She set to work tidying up the kitchen, removed her apron and hung it on a hook in the pantry, and grabbed her purse, ready to go. They only needed a few things to tide them over for the weekend so it didn’t take long to complete her shopping, but as she returned to the car, Blake pulled up alongside. She bristled with rage when he lowered his window. “Hi, Winnie! How are you?” “As good as can be expected, seeing as how you’ve got my boy in jail.” She could tell that her answer caught him off guard. Had he expected her to praise him for a job well done? “I wish it had been someone else, anyone else, but the evidence all points to Roy.” “I don’t care what evidence you think you have. He says he’s innocent, and I believe him.” “Then we’ll make certain he has a fair trial. Is there anything I can do for you?” “Sure there is! Drop the charges!” “Sorry, Winnie. I can’t do that, not even for you.” “Then there’s nothing left to say. Good-bye, Constable Northrup.” She didn’t give him a chance to respond, just stowed the groceries in the trunk and pulled away. Half-afraid she’d broken some eggs in her hurry, she tried to calm down, forcing back tears of fear and abject misery. It wouldn’t do to arrive home with reddened eyes from crying. Spying a drive-thru up ahead, she pulled in and ordered an iced tea, parked the car and sat sipping her drink until she felt capable of coherent speech. She knew Blake had only done his job, but what evidence could they possibly have against him? Roy was innocent, wasn’t he? She finally calmed enough to put the car in gear and drive home then sat behind the wheel deep in thought. Questions still reverberated through her mind in a constant rotation. She cringed at the thought of visiting Lucas’s family at Thunder Creek and agitated over what Luke Junior would say. Did he blame her for Roy’s misdeeds? Did Zakia? She was such a lovely, young woman. Well brought up and caring to those

around her. Why would Roy target her? Had she done something to provoke him? Maybe she wasn’t as gentle a soul as she seemed. Her door opened, and she started nervously, having been unaware of her husband’s approach. “Lucas! You nearly frightened me to death.” “I heard the car pull up and thought I’d help unload the groceries.” His chuckle grated on her frayed nerves. “They’re in the trunk, not up here,” she snapped. “Since when is it a crime to hold a door open for my lovely wife?” She felt the rush of color suffuse her face as she considered his words. “Ah, Lucas, I’m sorry. I’m wound tighter than a spinner’s wheel.” “Want to escape to our room for a massage,” he asked, mischief sparkling in his deep-set brown eyes. She giggled at his nonsense, her anxiety lessening for the moment. “Groceries first.” “Ah, darn! And I had my hopes up, too!” He took her hand and helped her out of the car, then hauled her up against him for a breathtaking kiss. “Lucas! The wranglers!” “Everyone on this ranch knows how much I love you, woman. If’n I want to steal a kiss or two, I’m a goin’ to.” He kissed her again then sauntered around to the back of the car as she pushed the button control to open the trunk. He reached in and passed the lighter bags to her before loading up with the rest. She put the groceries away, put on a pot of tea, and made sandwiches for lunch. Thoughts of the Manning family and tomorrow’s dinner at Thunder Creek kept her mind in turmoil. Her throat dried up with dread, and she quickly washed down each bite of her sandwich with a sip of tea, afraid she’d choke otherwise. Sunday always saw them at Thunder Creek for a family meal, but Winnie wasn’t looking forward to it this week. Not at all.

Chapter Two Lucas witnessed myriad expressions crossing his wife’s face during lunch, but the one worrying him the most was fear. What was she afraid of? Then it hit him. Not what, who? She was afraid for Roy. He knew that was inevitable. After all, he was her firstborn, but was there something else bothering her, too? Before he’d figured out a way to ask, she glanced up and caught him looking at her. Her smile blossomed, bright enough to outdazzle the sun in its intensity. Maybe he was worrying about nothing. She seemed fine now. He smiled back, relieved. “Want to go for a ride this afternoon?” he asked. “I’d love to, but just a short one. It’s my turn to make dessert to go with dinner tomorrow, and I haven’t got a clue what to bake.” “Whatever you decide on, it’ll be demolished in seconds. Quit fussin’ and come ridin’ with me before I start feelin’ neglected.” “You? Neglected? That’ll be the day!” Her tinkling laughter filled the unusual silence of the kitchen. “It seems quiet without the twins around, doesn’t it?” “Yep, gotta love those boys, but I like having my privacy, too.” He raised an eyebrow in a lascivious manner, bringing forth more of her delightful laughter. Yep, he must’ve been imagining things earlier. “Let me clear up the lunch dishes and grab my hat.” “All right. While you do that, I’ll go saddle the horses.” “I’ll meet you out there in a few minutes.” She began to pick up their dirty dishes. “Not so fast,” he said as he came around the table. “A man needs some lovin’ to help him over the dry spells.” She giggled. “You haven’t had a dry spell since we came back from our stay at Thunder Creek.” “Well, you’d said you’d be a few minutes, so I’m a needin’ a few kisses to tide me over.” He held her in his arms and lavished her with kisses, playful teasing kisses to coax more smiles from her. Her smiles had a way of brightening up his entire day. “Now then, I’ll just mosey on out to the barn and saddle them horses.”

He was in the back porch pulling on his boots when the phone rang. “Hello…yes, I’m Mrs. Manning…yes, Winifred GraysonManning…. Who is this?” He heard the phone drop and bounce off something. He rushed back inside to see his beloved slumped in the chair by the phone. “Winnie! What is it? What happened?” She didn’t answer him, just stared straight ahead as if in shock. He picked the phone up off the floor. “Who is this?” he demanded. A man’s maniacal laughter greeted his words before the dial tone sounded in his ear. Damn! He glanced at the call display. Private name, private number! Double damn! He hung up the phone and focused his attention on his wife. Squatted down in front of her, he searched her face. Fear. Not good. “Winnie, darlin’, talk to me.” He reached up a hand to brush the curls back from her face. “Who was that on the phone?” She shook her head. A response at least. “What did he say?” She stared at him as if she didn’t know him, then all of a sudden, she lurched forward and hung on to him for dear life as she sobbed uncontrollably. The force of it almost knocked him over backwards, but he grabbed the table leg for support and held on. Once she quieted down, he tried again. “Winnie, what did he say?” Her words were low and muffled from her face buried in his shirt. “Winnie?” He held her a little away. “What was that you said?” “He said…he said…that…I…I’m a d…dead woman.” “For the love of God! Who in tarnation would pull a stunt like that? Did you recognize the voice?” She shook her head and burrowed back into his shoulders. “I need to call Blake.” She shook her head wildly. “No! You can’t!” “Why in hell not?” “Because I…I was rude to him today.” “Today? In town?” She nodded.

“Aw, honey. He wouldn’t take no notice of that. He knows Roy is your son. You’re bound to be a little put out at him being arrested.” “I hated being rude.” “Everyone around these parts knows what a sweet, lovin’ woman you are. Don’t think no more about it. I’m goin’ to go use the phone in the barn in case they can trace the last call on this one. Want to come with me?” He held his breath, hoping she’d say yes. He didn’t want to leave her alone. “Yes, but give me a couple minutes to wash up first. Okay?” “No problem. I’ll wait right here.” He watched as she stood and walked to the half-bath off the kitchen. At the door, she stopped and looked back, as if to make sure he was still there. He nodded his head in reassurance then settled in to wait as she went inside and closed the door. Blake’s card was in his wallet so he used the time to dig it out, his anger at the unknown caller growing by the minute. When Winnie emerged, she had herself under control again. Only the redness around her eyes told of her crying jag. They sauntered out to the barn as if it was time for their leisurely, afternoon walk. A quick glance at his watch verified that it actually was. He didn’t want to rush her in case it brought on another bout of crying, but the closer they got to the barn, the more impatient he felt. They went to the little office in the back corner, relieved that no one else was there. Lucas picked up the phone and dialed the number. “Blake Northrup, please.” He waited, his free arm around his wife, holding her tight to his side. “Afternoon, Blake. Lucas Manning here. We’ve had an incident I felt you should know about…. Yes, someone called the house and threatened my wife…. Okay, thanks.” He hung up the receiver. “Blake’s comin’ right out.” “I don’t know what for. You could’ve told him what the guy said instead of making him come all the way out here.” She fiddled with papers on the desk instead of looking at him. He knew she was still distraught over the phone call, but he figured she was nervous about facing Blake after their run-in in town. “His choice, honey. As long as he doesn’t tell me how to run the ranch, I won’t tell him how to run his investigations.”

That made her look up, and he saw that his words had coaxed a smile out of her. “That sounds fair enough, I suppose. Come on up to the house with me. I may as well put on a pot of coffee.” “Got any of those raisin cookies left?” he asked hopefully. “Maybe one or two.” “Let’s get to it then.” While Winnie busied herself with setting out afternoon tea, Lucas went to the den to fetch his gun and holster. It wasn’t leaving his hip until he knew who had made that phone call. Winnie gave him a strange look when she noticed it, as did Blake when he arrived, but wisely, neither commented. The three of them sat at the kitchen table, talking casually as if it was a social call. Lucas figured it was Blake’s way of putting his wife at ease, for which he was thankful. “I’m sorry for being so rude to you in town,” said Winnie. “Think nothing of it. If I was in your shoes, I’d probably hate me, too.” Blake smiled a friendly grin, and Winnie visibly relaxed. “I don’t hate you, Blake, just the circumstances that ended with Roy in jail.” “Understood. So what can you tell me about this phone call?” he asked. “What time did the call come in?” “We’d had a late lunch because of my trip to town, and it was right after that. Around 1:30.” “Did you recognize the voice?” “No. It sounded kind of high-pitched and garbled.” “What was said?” “He asked for Mrs. Manning. I confirmed that yes, I was Mrs. Manning. He asked which one, and I said Winifred GraysonManning. Then I asked who it was.” She paused. “You’re doing fine. What did he say then?” “His voice changed, became lower, gruff, and he said, ‘You’re a dead woman.’ That’s when I dropped the phone and sat down. My legs wouldn’t hold me up. Lucas came running and I felt his presence, saw him, but couldn’t speak.” “Then what happened?” “I picked up the phone and demanded to know who was on the line. My question was met by crazy laughter and then the phone went

dead,” said Lucas. “That’s when I hung it up, and we called you from the barn.” “Okay. Good. First off, I’ll need your permission to access your phone records. We may just get lucky, but it’s not usually that easy.” Blake pushed the consent form toward him. “You’ve got it,” said Lucas as he signed the paper. “I brought some trace equipment with me today. I’ll hook it up while I’m here and explain how it works. Scott will be out later to take over monitoring the line and provide some additional protection. I, uh, have a hot date tonight with a feisty little dark-haired lady we all know, but I’ll check in later and be back tomorrow. All right?” “Sounds good, Blake. Where do you want to set up?” “Is there an extension in the living room?” “Yes.” “Good! I’ll set up in there so as not to interfere with Winnie’s cooking.” She laughed. “Nothing interferes with my cooking. Does this mean you’re staying for dinner?” “I’d love to, Winnie. Thanks! You are by far the best cook around these parts, hands down.” “Quit flatterin’ my woman and find your own,” Lucas said, chuckling. “Working on it, sir. I’m working on it.” Blake picked up the case from the floor and followed Lucas through to the living room. **** Winnie dug out the ingredients for apple pie and set to work making a few, one for tonight’s dessert and two to take to Thunder Creek tomorrow. Her concentration was a little off due to the nature of that phone call, but baking was good therapy, and she soon found herself smiling as she worked. Everyone loved her apple pie. While those were baking, she cubed some beefsteak, diced up some green pepper and onions, and browned them for a stew base. She added boiling water, spices, peeled potatoes, carrots, and turnip to the pot. Not satisfied without some green veggies, she unearthed a bag of frozen green beans and one of peas and added them to the mix, leaving it on the stove to simmer as she cleaned up the kitchen and sat for a much-needed cup of tea.

Her husband’s voice carried easily from the front of the house, as did Blake’s. She heard her boy’s name mentioned, and her ears perked up. Surely they didn’t think Roy was responsible for that nasty phone call. He was in prison for crying out loud! To top that off, she’d know his voice and it definitely hadn’t been him on the line. She rose to her feet, ready to go and tell them so when the phone rang again. She froze, afraid to answer. Lucas must have picked up the extension as she heard him speaking. “Leah? Is that you?” His daughter. Winnie let out a relieved breath, unaware that she’d been holding it, and sank back down into the chair she’d just vacated. How nice for Lucas that she’d called. They hadn’t seen her since she’d left right after graduation. Of course, she wasn’t married to Lucas then, but they had spent a lot of time together. Apparently, Leah lived a busy life in Vancouver. Lucas was proud of her for making her own way in the world, but he worried about her constantly. Why was she calling today? It wasn’t his birthday or Christmas. Maybe she’d heard of Roy’s arrest, after all, it was plastered all over the news. She sighed. Why is it bad news always travels faster than any good? It was great that Luke and his family were all right after what they’d been through. She just wished the media would quit dragging her son’s good name through the muck and mire. There would be a hefty public apology made when they discovered their mistake. She’d make sure of it. The smell of beef stew filled the kitchen, and she developed a sudden hankering for dumplings. She mixed up a batch, dropped them on top of the stew to cook then set the table and called the men to wash up. “That was Leah on the phone just now,” said Lucas as he took his sat at the table. “How is she?” asked Winnie. “She says she’s fine, but she seemed distracted, as if somethin’ is botherin’ her. I told her we’d like to see her, tried to encourage her to come home for a visit, but she put me off.” “Leah is an independent gal. Takes after her daddy,” said Winnie. “She’ll come home when she’s ready.” “Yeah, I reckon. How’s your soup, Blake? Need anythin’ else?”

“This is fine, more than fine. Delicious as usual, Winnie,” he said then took a drink of water. “My stews are tasty but never this delicious. What’s your secret?” She smiled. “If I told you, it wouldn’t be a secret anymore.” Blake laughed. “I’ll settle for a hint.” “A shake of oregano, a dollop of soy sauce, and a touch of bouillon.” “Ahhh, I use bouillon but never the other two. I’ll have to try that.” She smiled and nodded. “Lucas, why did Leah call?” she asked, not liking his silent, contemplative mood. “I’m not sure. Just to touch base I think.” “Oh.” She resumed eating, finishing off her meal, and then rising to her feet to dish up their dessert. “Winnie, darlin’, I truly do love you,” said Lucas as he dove into his slice of pie. “Me, too,” said Blake around a mouthful. “Me, too.” After dinner, Blake showed them both how the trace equipment worked. “You’ll need to keep the line open as long as you can for us to pinpoint the location he’s calling from. Can you do that?” “Yes, it was just so unexpected, so scary—that first call. I’ll be fine, and I’ll try to keep him talking.” “Good girl! Scott will be here shortly, and I’ll take off. Any questions?” “What happens if he doesn’t call back?” asked Lucas, a worried frown puckering his forehead. “What if he just shows up and tries to carry out his threat?” asked Winnie, nerves starting to get the best of her. “If he doesn’t call back within the next forty-eight hours, we’ll have to accept that it was a one-off, a prank call. If anyone strange shows up on your property, Scott will radio it in and we’ll be here with back-up ASAP. Don’t take any unnecessary risks and stay out of sight as much as possible. I’ll be back in the morning.” “Thanks, Blake,” said Lucas. “I knew we could count on you.” “No problem.” He smiled and glanced out the window. “Here’s Scott now. See you in the morning.” ****

Scott walked into the kitchen sniffing the air. “Darn! Why does the boss have to take all the good shifts? No one cooks at night.” “Did you have dinner, Scott?” asked Winnie, smiling at the young man. “Yeah, I grabbed a burger on the way here.” “Got room for some beef stew and dumplings?” “Oh yeah, if it’s all right?” “Sit down and I’ll fix you a plate. It’s still hot.” She set a full plate in front of him and came back with dessert. “I’ve died and gone to heaven, for sure. Thank you, Mrs. Manning.” “Winnie. If you’re eating at my table, that means we’re friends. Call me Winnie.” “Thank you, Winnie. This is delicious!” He ate heartily and stood, taking his coffee into the living room. “Waiting is always the toughest part of something like this,” he said. “I’ll put on a movie. We can always mute it fast enough if the phone rings,” said Lucas. They sat together and watched the movie. Lucas kept the remote in his hand, but the phone never rang. “Do you need anything before we go to bed?” asked Winnie as the movie ended. “Is it all right if I make more coffee?” “Help yerself to anythin’ you need. We’ll see you in the mornin’. Good night, Scott,” said Lucas. “Nite all. Sleep well.” Lucas had laid awake deep in thought long after Winnie’s gentle snores told him she’d fallen asleep at last. Damn Roy for putting her through this! And for terrorizing his family. If he was guilty, and that was a big if, he hoped the weasel rotted in jail. **** Life returned to normal on the Grayson spread, except for the necessity of having a cop for a ranch hand. Randy was the obvious choice. He had ridden along on the round-up and was familiar with the other wranglers. The outbuildings needed a fresh coat of paint, which kept him in close proximity to the ranch house. Lucas sat on the front porch rocker, watching him, knowing he’d do the job at hand and monitor the comings and goings as well.

As for himself, he kept his wife practically glued to his hip. He’d protect her with his life if need be. Blake hadn’t confined them to the ranch as such, but they didn’t go far. They spent so much time together it felt like they were newlyweds again. He smiled. There were definite advantages to every situation. The screen door rattled and he jumped to his feet, taking the loaded tray from Winnie as she joined him outside. “Iced tea and strawberry shortcake.” He licked his lips. “Winnie, my love, you’re the best!” She laughed. “You just say that because I feed both your hungers.” He joined in the laughter then looked her up and down suggestively. “Well, I’m sure these treats will keep if you’d care to join me inside.” “And after I went to all this trouble. Shame on you, Lucas!” “Can’t blame a guy for tryin’. Come, sit with me a spell.” “I intended to,” she said as she grabbed her iced tea off the tray. “Are we still going to Luke’s for dinner? I don’t like to think we’re putting them in danger again.” “Yep, no worries. Blake will stay and monitor the equipment in case someone calls. If it goes to the answerin’ machine, and if they’re stupid enough to leave a message, this might be over by the time we get back.” “You really think so?” she asked, a hopeful expression on her face. “No, but it sure would be nice.” He tucked into his strawberry shortcake and waved his spoon in the air. “You know, the timin’ of this whole thing bothers me. If Roy was framed, as he told you he was, maybe this is just extra insurance to keep him quiet.” “How? Roy doesn’t even know about that phone call.” “Maybe whoever called figured you’d go see him today and tell him about it.” “Hmmm, maybe, but who?” “Beats me, but I’m wonderin’ if we should call Roy and ask him if he has any ideas. Or maybe Blake could call.” “Blake would have a better chance of getting through. Roy told me he’s not allowed any calls until after the hearing tomorrow.” “All right, then. I’ll mention it to him before we head for Thunder Creek.”

Chapter Three Sunday seemed like any other day in the Manning household, normal banter, easygoing laughter and talk of cattle and horses. Except Winnie felt anything but normal. She felt guilty for raising a son who could do harm to another being. “Winnie, are you all right?” Zakia asked, her voice low. “Not really, but thanks for asking. I’m so sorry for the things you’ve been through.” “What Roy has done is not your fault. Don’t be blaming yourself or making apologies on his behalf.” “Are they certain it was Roy?” she asked, not entirely sure she wanted an answer. “Yes. I wish it had been someone else. This must be so difficult for you.” “Difficult? Yes, I suppose that’s one word for it. But why, Zakia? Why did he target you?” She noticed the silence around the table then and looked up to see all eyes focused on her. “Maybe we should discuss this later, if you don’t mind?” “Later would be best, and I don’t mind at all.” Zakia reached over and squeezed her hand in a comforting gesture. “Just know that we all love you.” Winnie nodded in reply, the power of speech lost to her for the moment. How could this girl be so generous toward her in the face of all that had happened? Was it just for show to appease the men at the table? Could she really be that forgiving? Her face must have registered her confusion. Lucas gave an imperceptible nod and smiled as if to say everything would be all right. Except it wasn’t. She felt like an outsider, no longer a real part of the family. How had her world come to this in such a short space of time? Her errant thoughts came to an abrupt halt at the sound of Luke’s voice. “I think I’ll take the boys for a ride. It’ll feel good to get back in the saddle,” Luke said. “Anyone want to join me?” “Not me,” said Zakia. “Not with this ankle still acting up.” “Get your boots on, boys, and let’s go saddle our mounts.”

The kitchen was ominously quiet after they’d left. Winnie began gathering up the dirty dishes but Lucas stayed her with a gentle hand on her arm. “Leave those for now. We’ll talk.” “All right, but let me refill our cups first.” She poured tea and rummaged around for some cookies, killing time. Did she really want to hear what Zakia had to say? She sighed heavily, knowing she’d best be prepared. If she was to help Roy, she had to know the facts. Zakia started the conversation once they were seated again. “I’ll answer any questions you have as honestly as I can, but I can’t promise you’ll like the answers, Winnie.” She spoke in a soft voice, concern evident in her expression. “I need the truth, Zakia. Don’t try to sugarcoat the facts for me.” “Okay, what do you want to know?” “When did they first suspect Roy?” “Luke said he suspected Roy when he and his camper disappeared at the same time as my abduction.” “He could’ve just been finished taking pictures, ran out of supplies, anything.” “Yes, he could’ve, but he didn’t. They found evidence of Roy’s involvement.” “What evidence?” “His lighter, which was found beside the dead puppy, Sampson and the horse he rode, which he’d culled from the herd the night he stole the puppy, also my hairclip, which was found in his garage, and various other things.” Winnie nodded toward Zakia’s foot, propped on a chair. “Your ankle? Did he hurt you?” “No, I did that when I tried to jump and run from the camper. With my attention diverted by the garage floor lowering us underground, I landed wrong.” “You must have been terrified!” “Yes, I was. When I found out it was my landlord, I couldn’t imagine why he would stalk and threaten me, or kidnap me for that manner. I knew him as Leroy Williams. It was only later, after Luke found me, that I discovered he was your son. I hadn’t recognized him at all.”

“Yes, well, the surgeons did a great job. During all this, did you actually see Roy?” “Well, no, he used chloroform or something. When I woke up, he had me tied hand and foot to the bunk. He came in to gag me when we reached the city, but he wore a mask. Why?” “So you didn’t see Roy at all?” “No, I didn’t see his face,” Zakia admitted. “Then how do you know it was him driving the truck?” “Winnie, they found his personal vehicle in the same parking lot the truck and camper were stolen from. That was enough to obtain a search warrant. Luke found my hairclip when they searched the garage. After that, they discovered the garage floor, triggered by remote, became an elevator of sorts, taking them underground to a labyrinth of tunnels. That’s where he left me. If he wasn’t the one driving the truck, he was definitely a party to what was going on. I’m sorry.” “He could’ve been framed.” “No, Winnie. He would have heard the garage door open and close and that floor made a ghastly noise. There’s no way around that.” “Maybe he wasn’t home. I wonder if anyone else had a key or remote to his garage.” “I don’t think so. I’d never seen anyone else come and go except him. He rarely had company.” “Thank you, for your honesty, Zakia.” “Is there anything else I can do for you?” “Not unless you’re willing to drop the charges.” Zakia opened her mouth as if to speak but Lucas spoke up first. “That’s not fair of you to ask, Win.” “Why not? Roy didn’t hurt anybody.” “Winnie, luv, kidnappin’ is a federal offense.” “Yes, but if Zakia doesn’t press charges…?” she asked hopefully, her pleading eyes trained on her daughter-in-law. “Winnie, he terrorized us for months! He threatened Luke and my children. How can you ask that of me?” “He’s my son,” she stated, tears streaming down her face. “He’s…my…son.” She slumped forward in her chair, her head on her hands, all energy depleted.

“Come on, love.” She allowed Lucas to lead her to the truck, and they went home. He led her to the master bedroom where they lay together on the bed. “Shhh, darlin’. Don’t worry so. It’s tearing you apart.” Her tears soaked the front of his shirt as she cried out her misery, and finally falling into the blissful darkness of true exhaustion, she slept. **** Lucas held her as she dozed, relieved that her crying jag was over, at least for now. Her smiling countenance was what had drawn him to her in the first place. She never allowed anything to get her down for long. He hoped the same held true in the days ahead. Lucas was proud of Luke and his family for not shutting her out. She was his wife. They were family. He only hoped she’d remember that when facing the unsavory truths to come. There was more to this story than anyone was telling so far. Much more, he figured. Tomorrow morning they’d attend the hearing and find out exactly what charges Roy faced and what evidence they had against him. It must be pretty damning for Blake to have arrested him. When Zakia had told them about the underground tunnels, he’d felt sick to the stomach and angrier than he’d ever been. She must have been terrified! The question uppermost in his mind, the one he burned to have an answer to, was why Zakia? She’d known him as her landlord, but he’d obviously known who she was all along. If his aim was to cause trouble in the Manning family, all he had to do was inform Luke about the twins. No, there was much more to this story, and he needed to hear it. Unfortunately, so did his wife. Roy was guilty. On that, he’d bet his best horse. **** The drive to Calgary on Monday morning was a solemn one. Thanks to Blake’s intervention, they’d meet up with Roy in a private room to talk about the charges before court. He glanced over to where Winnie sat, her eyes downcast, her hands busy mutilating the strap on her purse. His heart ached for her – for what she was going through. He’d never known a purer love than that of a parent for their child. Unconditional…like his love for Leah.

A sudden, sharp pain in his chest had him jerking the wheel, drawing Winnie’s attention. “Lucas! Are you all right?” she asked as he brought the car under control. “Yeah, I’m fine. Just a muscle spasm,” he said, absently rubbing the sore spot. “Are you sure that’s all it is?” “Yep. Quit worryin’, it’s gone now.” He gritted his teeth against the residual pain and forced his hand to move back onto the steering wheel. “I’ve been so worried about Roy that I never gave a thought to how this could be affecting you. Maybe we should stop at the hospital and have the doctor there check you over.” “Don’t fret, woman. We can’t afford to sit around that darned hospital all day while they poke and prod me to death. Besides, Roy’s waitin’ on us.” “But if it’s your heart….” He reached over with his free hand and placed it on hers, squeezing gently. “My heart’s fine. You’ve enough to worry about today. If it happens again, we’ll go straight to the hospital. All right?” “All right, if you’re sure.” Lucas found a parking spot close to the entrance, one advantage of arriving early. He put the roof up on Winnie’s sporty little Mustang convertible to keep the seats from getting too hot in their absence, then strode to the door with his wife’s hand held securely in his. He gave his name to the bailiff, and he showed them to a small room with a table and three chairs. A bare bulb hung near the ceiling, shining meager light on the room’s contents. There was no window to break the austerity of the solid cement wall, the only way in or out through the one door. The lock clicked ominously in the quiet of the room as the guard closed it behind him. “Lucas?” Winnie asked, her claustrophobia rearing its ugly head. “It’s all right, honey. I’m here with you, and Roy will be in shortly. This is probably one of their holdin’ cells for prisoners awaitin’ trial.” He led her to one of the chairs, waited until she was seated, and then sat down beside her, settling in to wait. Lucas had counted

every brick in the wall twice over before he moved to counting the scratches in the table. They sat there quietly, waiting for such a long time that Lucas felt certain court must have started without them. He got up and went to the door to inquire of the guard just as it opened. Blake came inside, closing the door behind him. “I’m sorry to tell you this, but it isn’t possible for you to speak to Roy today.” “Why not? Blake, you promised,” said Winnie, jumping to her feet in agitation. He nodded his head. “Yes, I did, but this is out of my control.” “What happened, Blake?” asked Lucas, sensing a distinct tension in the man standing before him. “Roy and another prisoner were on their way to the courthouse when the Sheriff’s van they were traveling in got waylaid by masked gunmen. The prisoners escaped. The Sheriff and his deputy weren’t so lucky. They died at the scene.” “Oh…my…God,” said Winnie, and then promptly fainted. Lucas made a mad dash to her side and caught her before she hit the cold, hard cement floor. “Get me a cold cloth or drink or something.” “Coming right up,” said Blake as he pounded on the door for the guard. **** Winnie came to slowly, aware of a coolness in the air surrounding her. She opened her eyes to see Lucas perched at her side. “What happened?” “You fainted.” She looked around. “What! I’ve never fainted in my life. Where are we?” “We’re still at the courthouse, but this is the lawyers’ lounge. Blake arranged for me to bring you in here.” “Oh! Yes, I remember now. Have they found Roy? What would those men want with him?” “I don’t know, honey, but they got away. No sign of them yet.” “My poor baby!”

“If you’re feelin’ okay now, we should head home. The others are waitin’ on us. We need to pack our things and head back to the Thunder Creek Ranch.” “Whatever for?” “Winnie, love, whether you accept it or not, Roy is an escaped convict. We know the man he escaped with is dangerous, very dangerous. Blake wants us all at one place so it’s easier to provide protection.” “I don’t need protection from my own son,” she huffed, sitting up and putting her feet on the floor. “Maybe not, but we don’t know why he’s with those other men. Until they’re rounded up, we need to stay safe, especially after that phone call yesterday.” “Urgh! I’d forgotten about that. Do you think it had something to do with today’s escape?” “Could be, and I’m not willin’ to take any chances.” “Okay, Lucas. Whatever you think is best.” She felt bonetired, weary, and exhausted, both physically and emotionally. If Roy was at the root of everything happening lately, she didn’t know if she could ever forgive him. Her car, driven by one of Blake’s Mountie friends, joined the procession headed south. She and Lucas sat in the back. With the top up on her Mustang convertible, the interior would have been suffocating in this heat if not for the air conditioning. They stopped off at the Grayson Spread to pack a few things, their guard sticking with them and insisting on checking out the house before they entered. The other vehicles kept moving toward Thunder Creek. It didn’t take long to pack what they needed for a short stay. If it turned out they needed to stay longer, she’d just have to launder their clothes more often. She snapped the suitcase closed and latched it, her thoughts returning to Roy. Tears filled her eyes as she thought of him being in the hands of murderers. What did they want with him? Roy had always been impulsive and mischievous, but what boy wasn’t? She didn’t know much about his life since he’d moved to the city, but surely those men weren’t his friends. Were they? **** Cammy and Casey, Luke and Zakia’s twin boys, met them with exuberant greetings as soon as they arrived. You’d think they’d

been gone for weeks instead of a matter of days, and they’d been here for dinner just yesterday. They tackled Lucas, and he picked them up, one under each arm to swing them around, eliciting squeals of laughter from the two little boys. He set them back on their feet and grabbed the suitcase, which he’d dropped just inside the door. “We’ll play later,” he said as they ran to Winnie for hugs. “We have to put our stuff away.” His free hand reached for Winnie’s and, hand in hand, they went up to their room. Lucas hung some of their clothes in the closet while she put the rest in bureau drawers. “I hope Roy’s all right,” she said. “Why wouldn’t he be?” Stunned at his cavalier attitude, she turned to face him, hands on hips. “Lucas, he’s in the clutches of those murderers! What do they want with him? I wonder if he’s even still alive.” He stood, staring at her for a moment before he spoke. “Well, I suppose you’re bound to feel uneasy, seein’ as we don’t know whether they’re friends of his or foe.” His words seemed careful, measured, as if he was afraid of saying the wrong thing. “Uneasy? I’m terrified for him!” He walked toward her and took her cold hands in his much larger, warm ones. “The fact is, he escaped with them. He ran. They didn’t drag him along at gunpoint. His runnin’ sure makes him look guilty.” “Maybe they didn’t give him a choice.” “Maybe they didn’t, but until Blake and his men catch up with them, we won’t know for sure.” “My Roy isn’t a murderer,” she said, searching his eyes for a glimmer of concern. It was there, whether for her or for Roy, she wouldn’t ask. “I hope not, but he’s facin’ some pretty tough charges.” “Lucas, what’s going to happen to him?” “I don’t know, luv. I just don’t know.” He held her close, so close she felt his heart beating against her cheek. Why couldn’t life be simple? Why all the questions and uncertainty when she just wanted to live a normal life. How was she supposed to act around Luke and his family? They said they didn’t

blame her, but how did they feel about having her living under their roof again? Could she put off joining them downstairs? “Lucas, do you think anyone would mind if we stayed up here for a while?” “I don’t reckon anyone would care. Why?” “I’d like to lie down for a while. Would you hold me?” “Anytime and for always.” She led him to the bed where they lay, fully clothed, with her nestled in the crook of his arm, her hand fingering the snaps on his western-style shirt. “Thank you.” “For what? Holdin’ my woman?” “For being here, for staying with me.” “Woman, don’t you know by now that there ain’t any place I’d rather be?” He hugged her tight in reassurance. Eventually, her thoughts calmed with the steady beat of his heart, and her eyelids fluttered closed. **** Lucas heard the phone ringing in the master bedroom across the hall, jarring him awake. He hoped it was good news, for his wife’s sake, but a niggling sensation in the pit of his stomach warned him against it. Winnie yawned and stretched beside him. “What time is it?” He glanced at the bedside clock. “Almost three.” “Heavens! I didn’t mean to sleep the day away.” He chuckled, still feeling uneasy. “You must have needed it. It’s been a rough few days.” “Yes, it has, but we’d better get up. I need to help Zakia with dinner for this crew.” “Okay, Luv. I’ll go see what Luke and the boys are up to.” Everything was still and silent when they reached the main floor. Too still and silent. He peeked into the living room, but no one was there. They found Luke and his family sitting around the kitchen table, the twins coloring quietly. “What’s up?” Lucas asked. “Zakia’s friend, Samantha, was on her way here, but she’s been hurt. Blake found her and had her taken to the hospital.” “How bad? What happened?”

“Her truck went off-roading and landed on its side. We don’t have all the details yet. Blake’s supposed to call.” “Do you want me to fix dinner, Zakia?” asked Winnie. “Would you mind? Time would probably pass quicker if I kept busy, but I just don’t have the energy. There’s a roast in the oven so if you could put on some potatoes and veggies, that would be great.” “I don’t mind at all,” she said as she busied herself at the counter. “Anyone want coffee? I can make a fresh pot.” “That sounds lovely,” said Zakia, her face etched in worry for her friend. Lucas grabbed the cream, sugar, and a couple spoons, then joined them at the table. “I don’t understand. Sam is Army-trained, an excellent driver. How could this happen? A wild animal or somethin’?” “Something. Blake thinks she had help.” “Dag nabbit! Of all the da….” “Dad, the boys,” warned Luke. That’s when Lucas heard what they weren’t saying. He shot a glance toward Winnie when she dropped a potato. She’d obviously come to the same conclusion. Roy and his cronies were up to no good. But why target Sam? He pondered a moment. “Retaliation against Blake, you think?” “Could be,” answered Luke. “Or to prove a point.” “Hmmm.” He was getting gall-darned tired of all the menace aimed at his family and friends. If Roy was behind this latest fiasco…. Damn! The phone rang, and Zakia jumped for it. Her face wreathed with smiles soon after. “Sam’s fine,” she said as she hung up the phone. “Except for a busted arm and temporary amnesia. It could’ve been so much worse.” “She only has one arm,” said Cammy. “What’s amnesia?” asked Casey. “Amnesia is when a person forgets some things or some people,” said Luke. “If it’s her dummy arm that’s broke, we’ll have to get her a new one.” “It’s not the prosthesis,” said Zakia. “Darn! There’s just no end to the bad news around here,” Lucas said.

“Blake’s bringing her out here after they finish in the plaster room.” “Good! She won’t have to lift a finger while she heals,” Lucas remarked. Zakia smiled. “I doubt if she can.” Lucas stayed out of the way when Blake brought Sam in. Too many faces all at once might confuse the poor girl even more. Besides, he figured she’d be busy enough with Zakia and the twins asking questions. He’d see her tomorrow, she how she fared. Tonight he intended to spend with his woman.

Chapter Four “Good morning, Winnie. Any news?” Zakia asked as she herded her twin boys into the kitchen. “Nothing yet,” she answered, from her stance at the window. She hated being such a short woman, having to stand on tiptoe to see out. “I do hope we hear something soon.” “Yeah, me, too,” Zakia commented. Winnie turned to greet them with a smile. She caught her grandsons up in a bear hug of greeting. “Now what do you two want for breakfast?” “Toasty eggs,” said Cammy. “And bacon,” chimed in Casey. “Does that mean you want toast and eggs or French toast?” Winnie asked, smiling at the boys. “French toast.” “And bacon.” “Zakia, what are you having?” “The same, but right now coffee sounds good. Can I help with anything?” “No, dear, just grab yourself a coffee and relax while you can.” “Where’s Grandpa?” asked Casey. “Outside helping your Daddy with the chores.” She dished up two plates, set them in front of the boys then went to the fridge for milk and juice. “Winnie, are you all right?” asked Zakia. “You seem preoccupied this morning.” “I’m fine, nothing to worry about.” “Can I help with anything?” “No, I’m a tad superstitious is all. I woke with a niggling nervousness in my stomach, and it hasn’t gone away. The last time that happened was when my second husband…. Well, you know,” she said with a pointed look toward the boys. “Hard to explain right now.” “Yes, I understand, but try not to worry.” Easier said than done. Everyone seemed too determined to believe the worst of Roy. Her husband and oldest son had never

gotten along, not really. Not since their marriage when Lucas had moved in to take over the running of the Grayson Ranch. Of course, none of her sons had been interested in doing so, but that fact was lost on Roy. Jack, her youngest, still enrolled in Agricultural College, was the only one willing to take over the ranch one day. Michael had become a cop and moved to Vancouver, not at all willing to sacrifice his life to the land as his father had. And Roy, well, his future had always been uncertain. Cold shivers traveled up her spine. Something was wrong. Dead wrong. She could feel it. She hoped nothing had happened to her son. **** Winnie grabbed up her purse and met Lucas in the yard. “I’m going to head into town and pick up some groceries.” “Not without me, you’re not. Just give me a few minutes to wash up and change clothes.” “Certainly! You’re not setting one foot in my car with the smell of the barn on you. I’ll wait on the front porch.” When Lucas came back out, Charlie was with him. Another precaution, guaranteed to protect her, but from what? Her own son? Roy would never harm a hair on her head. She tossed him the keys and walked around to the passenger door, but he got there before her, opening the door with a flourish. “Your chariot awaits, m’lady!” “Oh, Lucas, you are such a ham.” She giggled as she slid onto the seat. Charlie didn’t seem to take any notice of Lucas’s nonsense, just quietly climbed into the back seat. The drive to town was uneventful, even though they’d stopped off at their place for a few items she’d forgotten to pack. Lucas braked to a stop in front of the general store and escorted her inside. Shopping was such fun with him tagging along. His humorous remarks always made her smile. “They plant eggs these days?” he’d ask, holding up an eggplant. Or: “Why should I eat pizza that tastes like cardboard when I have the best cook in the west?” He coaxed smiles from her on every aisle. True, they received their share of strange looks from the people they met, but she was

always happy to have him along. If people didn’t like it, they could tune him out and look the other way. He was her man, and she loved him just the way he was. All too soon, they arrived back at the ranch. The two men carried the bags of groceries in, and she put them away. Then they joined Luke for coffee. That’s when they found out that Blake had captured one of the men. He’d been in the house—in the master bedroom. “Oh, dear! Zakia, are you all right?” “I’m fine, just a little shaky.” “I would imagine, after a fright like that. You look a little pale, too. Why don’t we go plug in a movie? Relax for a bit.” “Sounds good, but the boys beat us to it. We might have to settle for one of their Disney movies. Cars by the sound of it,” said Zakia. “Oh, good,” said Lucas. “I watched that with them once before. It’s pretty good.” “Then let’s go. Luke, you coming?” “In a few minutes. I’m just waiting on Blake.” “Okay.” Winnie and Lucas took a seat on the sofa as the boys eagerly restarted the movie. Sam and Zakia sat in matching armchairs on either side of the fireplace and the twins went back to lying on their stomachs on the floor. Lucas swung his arm up behind her, hugging her close, and she relaxed enough to watch the movie. When it was over, the boys went upstairs to play, and Sam noticed the game board set up at the side of the room. “What kind of game is that?” she asked. “It’s chess, a game of strategy. Do you play?” “I don’t know, but something about it seems familiar.” Lucas rubbed his hands together in glee. The man loved chess. “Come on, Zakia. We may as well start dinner. Once Lucas gets that steely glint in his eye, I know I’ve lost him to a chess game.” “Well, Sam. Want to play?” he asked as if on cue. Winnie laughed and left the room with a smiling Zakia. **** “Well, I’ll be damned!” said Lucas as Sam beat him fair and square. “Rematch, best out of three,” said Lucas.

“Oh no you don’t,” said Winnie, from the direction of the kitchen. She’d overheard his challenge from the end of the hall. “Dinner is ready, and I refuse to make everyone wait because of your compulsion with winning. Good job, Sam! He doesn’t get beat often enough, and I’m afraid it goes to his head.” She smiled, taking the sting out of her words. “Maybe after dinner?” Sam asked. Blake, stationed at the front entry during their game, cleared his throat. “Sam, I’m doing the night watch tonight, so I’ll have to get some shut eye after dinner. Did you want to stay on shift with me or keep regular hours?” “Oh, I’ll stick with you. Sorry, Lucas. Some other time?” “Sure, lass. Sure.” They went through to the kitchen and took their places around the table. Talking ceased as they all dug in, quiet conversation slowly followed, as the twins never remained quiet for long. Sam and Lucas were discussing the chess plays, and how she’d remembered the game. “Auntie Sam, why did Grandpa want to play with your chest?” Casey asked with a confused look on his face. Zakia sputtered her drink. Winnie coughed, and Lucas turned red in the face. Luke, Blake, and Sam laughed out loud. “Casey, chess is a type of board game. Your dad has one set up in the living room. When you’re older, I’ll teach you how to play,” Sam said. “Ok, but why is everybody laughing?” “Oh, they just have a weird sense of humor sometimes,” said Lucas. “Ok.” He shrugged his shoulders and looked at his brother as if to say, “Grown-ups are weird.” Lucas turned to his wife with a mischievous smile. “Care to take a walk around the yard, my dear. I’d like to play chest.” It was Winnie’s turn to blush. “Lucas!” “But Grandpa, the chess is in the living room,” said Cammy. “So it is.” He chuckled. “So it is, but I’d still like to take a walk. Comin’, luv?” he asked as he rose to his feet. “Don’t go too far,” Blake cautioned. “We won’t.”

They stepped out into the evening air, warm for the time of year. Lucas kept one hand on his gun while the other held his wife at his side. “Those boys are really something,” she said. Lucas snickered. “What they don’t think of. I’d like to know how those little brains come up with such stuff.” “Well, they don’t know chess and hearing the conversation, well, I suppose it’s only natural to assume.” “Made for an embarrassing moment or two.” “Sam handled it really well. If you ask me, that girl needs kids of her own.” “Maybe so, luv. Maybe so. What do you say we go up to our room and work at makin’ our own?” “Lucas, we could work at it until the cows come home, but there’ll be no more babies from this gal.” “Well, gee! I know that, but we can have fun tryin’.” She giggled. “It’s too early. What will everyone think?” “Damned if I care as long as you’re beside me.” He took her in his arms and kissed her, careful not to let it get out of hand. Danger lurked nearby, and it was time they headed back to the house. A horse whinnied in the pasture, and he glanced that way but saw nothing. “Come on, luv. Let’s head back.” They made it back to the safety of the house without incident. Luke and Charlie were in the kitchen. “Somethin’ or someone is out and about. Couldn’t see anythin’ in the dark, but I felt it and the horses are restless.” “Thanks, Dad. We’ll keep on our toes.” “See that you do. We’re off to bed. Good night.” “Nite, you two.” The grin on Luke’s face said plenty, and Lucas was careful to keep Winnie turned toward the hall. It wouldn’t do for her to feel selfconscious and decide to sit down here a spell. Nope, he didn’t care what anyone thought. He loved his woman. **** Lucas sat in the kitchen drinking his morning coffee, enjoying having his family near and knowing they were safe. He couldn’t believe he and Winnie had slept so sound. He’d noticed the plasticcovered window first thing, and Luke had filled them in. A rifle shot blew out the kitchen window while Blake guarded the place. They

hadn’t heard the shot or the hammering involved to fix a temporary covering over the window. There was a sense of expectancy in the air, and it was coming from his son. What was he up to? Harrumph! What could he be up to with everyone rounded up and penned in as they were? Still, he got the feeling that he was waiting for something or someone. Ha! Weren’t they all? His Winnie was at the counter helping Zakia with the breakfast dishes. She was no slouch when it came to cooking and keeping a house in order and happily did her share. The sound of vehicles pulling in drew him to his feet, but Luke beat him to the window. “It’s DuShane, the cop from Calgary.” “What’s he doin’ here? And what’s with all the troops?” He turned to his son for an answer, only to see him sprinting toward the stairs. Going to wake Blake, he reckoned. He shoved his hat on his head, pulled on his boots, and went outside to see what was going on. “Good mornin’! Who’s in charge here?” he asked as he trudged across the yard. “That would be me, Officer DuShane with the Calgary Detachment,” he said as he stepped forward, offering a handshake in introduction. Lucas shook it. “What brings you down here?” “We’re here to search for the escapees.” “What? Who gave permission for you to go traipsin’ across Manning land?” “Lucas Manning.” “I’m Lucas Manning, and I don’t recall invitin’ you down here.” “Sorry, Dad,” said Luke as he and Blake walked over to join them. “I okayed the raid on the line camps last night. We have reason to believe Roy and his friends are holed up here, but it could be a wild goose chase. No sense getting you and Winnie worked up,” Luke said. “I suppose, but a man has a right to know what’s happenin’ on his own land.” “Yes, you do, Lucas, and I apologize as well,” said Blake. Then he turned to the new arrivals. “What’s up, DuShane. I take it they weren’t holed up at any of the line camps.”

“No, they weren’t, but they had been. Plenty of tracks in and out of all three. I’d say someone tipped them off.” “Well, it wasn’t any of mine,” Lucas said. “Seein’ as how most of us didn’t even know.” He gave Luke a shrewd look. “But we’ll discuss that later.” “Our department obviously has a leak, then,” said DuShane. “So what now? Why the troops?” asked Lucas Sr.. “We’re going to search on horseback.” As if on cue, two tractor-trailers hauling stock pulled in. “What the hell?” said Lucas. “Our horses,” said DuShane. Lucas watched as the horses were unloaded and listened as the men outlined the area for today’s search, putting in his two cents worth here and there. “Is there anything else I should know about the area?” asked DuShane. “Yeah, if it starts rainin’, get the hell out. I’m not likin’ the looks of those clouds and that river is known for flash floodin’,” said Lucas Sr.. “Okay, thank you, Mr. Manning. Consider us warned.” Lucas left them to it and returned to the house. He wished he didn’t have to tell his wife what they were up to, but she’d probably figured it out by now. He hadn’t ever lied to her and wasn’t about to start. Lucas shucked his barn boots before entering the kitchen. Winnie was a real stickler about clean floors. Thunder Creek might be a working ranch, but the barn smell could remain outside. He smiled at the thought as he entered, then abruptly sobered as he saw the worry etched on his beloved’s features. “They’re searching for Roy, aren’t they?” “Yes, Luv. They believe he’s hidin’ out here at Thunder Creek. They raided the line camps last night and found evidence that they had been, but they were gone.” “Roy was here?” “Yes, they found two sets of prison garb.” “Oh, thank God! At least I know he’s still alive.” “Yes, but it also means he’s willingly travelin’ with murderers and led them here.” “Oh, no! What will happen now?”

“DuShane and his men are organizin’ a search party. They think the men are still in the area.” “And if they find them?” Her worried eyes searched his, seeking the truth he didn’t want to share. “They’re lookin’ to arrest the men, but if they put up a fight, well, who knows what will happen?” “Oh, my poor baby!” Winnie cried. “Poor baby, my ass! Didn’t you hear what I said. Roy brought them here—to my ranch!” “He probably didn’t have any choice, after all, he saw them murder those cops. He’s probably terrified!” “Ah, Winnie, darlin’, such is a mother’s love.” “What do you mean? Of course, I love him.” “Yes, I know you do, and you persist on seein’ him as innocent through all this, even with all the evidence stacked against him. I hope you’re right, but best be prepared for the worst.” “Never!” she said, and left the room in tears. His thoughts so heavy they dragged him down, Lucas poured himself a coffee and went outside in time to see Winnie’s car turning onto the main road. Stubborn woman! Just because Roy is her son she doesn’t believe she’s in any danger, but after what happened to Sam, he couldn’t help but worry. He sat in a back corner of the porch, cursing Roy and praying he’d find the right words to console his wife when she returned. From what he knew of the evidence against him, Roy wouldn’t be eligible for bail anytime soon, if ever. And that was before the escape. He was still sitting there, lost in thought, when Blake came out. He heard him talking on the phone then the screen door creaked, and he thought Blake had gone back inside until he heard Luke’s voice. “Sam said you might have some news, so she came and got me.” “Smart girl. I’ve had some news, all right. It seems Old Red took out Simon Clarke, Roy’s cellmate. A real badass as per reports and the charges he’s up against. I’m glad he’s out of the way, but I do have to wonder how many men were involved in the escape.” Lucas was glad they’d caught two of the men, but didn’t wait to hear anymore. He stood and quietly left via the side steps, headed

toward the corral where Luke kept the boys’ ponies. His grandson’s ponies, Candy and Dandy, were in a corral all by themselves. Luke didn’t want the twins trampled by the larger horses if they happened to spook them. He shook his head and smiled. Those boys never walked anywhere, always on the run from one spot to the next. They could easily spook the horses without even trying. He wondered if Luke had done the chores this morning and decided to mosey on over and check. At least the horses were glad of his company, whinnying to him in greeting as he mucked out their stalls and laid in fresh hay and oats. They were on the mend, but he still didn’t dare allow them into the north paddock. Something out there had made them deathly ill and until he found out what it was, they’d be kept closer to the ranch. Their vet, Mark Welch, had taken blood, urine, and stool samples to have them analyzed. He’d even taken a water sample from the creek. The results should be back soon. Then he’d at least know what to look for. He fed Rounder, the ranch’s round-up dog, and her pups before leaving the barn. **** Winnie drove away from the ranch with tears streaming down her face. It was the first time they’d argued about anything, and it had to be about her son. Why couldn’t the stubborn man understand a mother’s love? It wasn’t like she could pick and choose her feelings. He could have at least given her a ray of hope to cling to. But no! Tears ran anew, blurring her vision, and she felt the tires skid in the loose gravel as her car dropped off the edge of the pavement. Oh, Lord! Thankfully, she righted the vehicle in time, coming to a halt at the side of the road, but the ordeal gave her pause. Maybe she shouldn’t have been so quick to leave, but with his mind dead set against Roy, it seemed like a good idea to go home to her own ranch. She’d decided to return to Thunder Creek and was making a three-point turn in the road when a white half-ton came out of nowhere, headed straight for her. Making a quick decision, she gunned the accelerator and whipped the wheel around. Her rear tires struck gravel again, but this time the spin helped propel her out of the way. She drove as fast as she dared back to the ranch, arriving in a cloud of dust as she braked to a halt.

Lucas crossed the yard in a hurry when he saw her car. He yanked the driver’s door open, and she just sat there, visibly shaking. He helped her out and held her close. “What happened? Somethin’ frighten you?” She nodded, but couldn’t speak the words she knew she had to share. He’d been right all along. Taking a deep breath, she spoke. “I was turning around to come back when a truck almost broad-sided me.” “Aw, honey. Your eyes aren’t what they used to be. Maybe you should give up drivin’ and stay safe.” She shook her head and pulled back to search his eyes, to connect with him and make him see the seriousness of what almost happened. “It wasn’t my eyes, Lucas.” “What are you sayin’?” “That truck, a white half-ton, intended to hit me…and I’m certain it was Roy sitting on the passenger side.” “Oh gawd! How much heartache can one child cause his mama? I’m so sorry, luv.” “I’m sorry, too, for not listening. You were right all along.” She broke down then, mad, hurt, and disillusioned. How on Earth had it come to this? What had she ever done to deserve Roy’s hatred? And what had she ever done to deserve the love of the kind, gentle man who held her? More importantly, what would she do if she lost him now? He took her arm, as he always did, and walked her to the porch swing. “Would you like a cup of hot tea or cold?” “Iced tea sounds lovely.” “Then sit yerself down and relax. I’ll bring you a glass. You look exhausted.” “Be right back,” he said as he planted a chaste kiss on her forehead. Once he’d disappeared inside the house, she leaned back against the cushions, closing her eyes against the sun’s glare, which seemed much too bright even through the overhead awning. Her eyes were itchy and sore from crying and her body totally drained of energy. She was exhausted, mentally and physically, yet the ordeal had barely begun. The gentle rocking motion of the swing calmed her as nothing else could, and as her mind wound down, she dozed.

**** Lucas found Blake in the kitchen and didn’t waste any time filling him in on Winnie’s near escape. He heard him radio it in as he poured iced tea into two tall glasses, added a few ice cubes and rushed outside. “Sorry to have kept you….” He stopped when he saw Winnie asleep on the swing. “Well, I’ll be!” He set the glasses on a side table, removed her shoes, and gently eased her legs up onto the cushions. Next, he fetched a light blanket from the house, covering her body. He stood there, admiration for her quick thinking and even quicker reflexes at the forefront of his mind. His attention was solely focused on this woman who’d shared his life the past few years. She meant the world to him, and he’d never been happier. He took a seat in the rocker nearby and watched over her as she slept. She wasn’t getting out of his sight again until Roy and his crew were behind bars. He resolved there and then that Roy’s predicament would not come between them. Whatever he was up to, somehow, they’d make it through.

Chapter Five Winnie struggled awake knowing there was something she needed to do. When she sat upright and saw Lucas sitting and sipping iced tea, she remembered…and wished she hadn’t. Why couldn’t it have all been a dream? “Why didn’t you wake me?” she asked, reaching for her glass. “You needed your rest.” “I need to tell Blake about that truck.” “Already taken care of.” She slumped back against the cushions. “Thank you, Lucas. I wasn’t looking forward to turning in my own son.” “No mater what they’re up to, they’re still our children and we love them.” “You’re thinking about Leah?” “Yeah. I’m kinda glad she’s not here durin’ all that’s goin’ on, but I can’t help wonderin’ why she called the other day.” He swirled the ice cubes in his glass of iced tea, his third while he’d waited for her to wake up. “Did she sound okay?” “Yeah, mostly…a little distracted. Hard to say what’s goin’ on in her life. She never says anythin’ except that she’s workin’ every day, and she’s fine.” “Well, that in itself is a relief.” “Yep, sure is.” The screen door opened, and Luke stuck his head out. “Lunch is ready.” “Be right in,” said Lucas, helping Winnie to her feet. He swooped in for a quick kiss before entering the house. “I love you, woman!” “I love you, too, my dear man.” Smiling, they entered the kitchen. **** Lunch over, Winnie decided to stay in the kitchen to do some baking. Lucas knew he’d just be in her way, so he challenged Sam to another game of chess. She bested him two out of three games. “Where did you learn to play so good?” asked Lucas.

“In the Army,” she replied without thinking. “Lots of time on your hands?” “Occasionally. The doctor I worked with was a competitive player. He taught me to play so he could keep his skills in practice.” “He taught you well.” Suddenly, her hand flew toward her face, and she doubled over as if in pain. Before he could say or do anything about it, Blake was there, helping her to her feet and ushering her upstairs, leaving him on guard duty. When they finally came back downstairs, Sam’s headache was gone, and she was smiling. “You’re lookin’ a mite better.” “I’m feeling a whole lot better. Lucas, I remember! My memory came back.” She’d given him a spontaneous hug and a chaste kiss on the cheek. Her and Blake had been holed up in Luke’s office ever since. Something about evidence before she forgot again. What a feisty little thing she was. She never complained, but it had to be a big relief to have her memories return. Luke saw him standing at the front entry and joined him. “What are you doing here? I thought Blake had called one of his men in.” “He must’ve forgot in all the excitement.” “I’ll go find someone and send him in.” “Nope, I’m fine. A little guard duty isn’t goin’ to hurt these old bones none.” Luke smiled. “Dad, I don’t think you’ll ever grow old.” “We all grow old sooner or later.” “Are you all right? You sound kind of maudlin.” “Worried about my Winnie. This is difficult for her.” “Yes, I imagine it would be. Roy needs his ass kicked for putting her through this.” “Yep.” The office door opened, and Blake and Sam stepped into the hallway, their smiling faces a sight to behold. “We got it! Sam is an excellent artist!” She stood beside him, blushing beet red. “I do what I can.” “What have you got?” asked Luke. “Kincaid, Roy’s lawyer.”

“How does he figure in all this?” asked Lucas. “When the truck pulled alongside to run me off the road, a man in the passenger seat pointed a gun at me. That man is Roy’s lawyer. Blake recognized him from the picture I drew.” “Hot damn! Now we’re gettin’ somewhere,” said Lucas. “And we’re getting some much deserved coffee and sunshine. No offense, Luke, but your office is kind of stuffy.” “Can’t help it. Have to keep it locked to keep the boys out.” “Speaking of which, I’ll send in a couple of my boys as reinforcements,” Blake said. Sam and Blake laughed as they headed to the kitchen. A short while later the screen door slammed shut. “It sure rained hard earlier,” said Lucas. “I hope those men didn’t get caught in the ravine.” “I don’t think it rained long enough for that.” “Don’t take long if it started up the mountain.” “True enough. Let’s just hope they’re okay.” “Yep.” Blake sent Seth and Charlie in as promised, so Lucas and his son joined the twins in the living room. They were on their stomachs on the floor, coloring in gigantic coloring books. “What cha colorin’?” asked Lucas. “Cars,” they chorused then giggled. Three shots rang out, barely heard in the confines of the house. “Sounds like someone’s spotted our campers,” said Lucas. “I hope no one gets hurt.” “I hope DuShane and his men have a successful round-up.” “Are we going on another round-up, Daddy?” asked Casey. “Not this year.” “Okay.” Another shot rang out followed by Sam’s scream. “Luke!” They went running to the back of the house, Seth in the lead. “What is it? What’s happened?” Luke asked as Sam grabbed the front of his shirt, clinging to him in fear. “I heard a shot and, Blake…Blake’s out there somewhere. We have to do something.” “Was Blake hit?” “I don’t know,” she cried.

“Stay here. Lock the doors and don’t let anyone in. Dad, you okay helping Seth with guard duty if I take Charlie with me?” He patted the gun in a holster on his hip. “Been ready. Take care out there.” “I will. Lock up and take everyone upstairs. Come on, Charlie.” “I’m coming with you,” said Sam. “No way. Blake would have my hide.” “He may be hurt, and I have first aid training. You may need me.” Luke nodded. “Come on then.” The three of them stepped out the door, Sam bringing up the rear. Lucas locked up and herded his family upstairs. Seth remained on guard downstairs, wanting to be handy when Sam and the men came back. From his position at the head of the stairs, Lucas heard the banging on the kitchen door a short while later. “Winnie, stay up here with Zakia and the boys. I’ll go see what’s goin’ on.” “Be careful.” “Always am.” He was right behind Seth when the door opened to admit Sam. “Blake’s hurt. Can you help bring him in?” They darted out the door in answer, returning a few minutes later with an unconscious and bloody Blake. They carried him through to the living room and laid him on the sofa. “I called an ambulance. They’ll be here soon,” said Sam as she knelt at Blake’s side, tending to him as best she could. Sirens blared in the distance, and Sam breathed a heartfelt sigh of relief. Lucas opened the front door and let the paramedics in, then walked up behind her and hauled her to her feet. “Come on, lass. We need to stay out of their way so they can do their job.” “I know, Lucas, but I don’t want to leave him.” “We’re not leavin’, just steppin’ back a pace or two to give them room.” He led her to a chair by the fireplace and threw a couple more sticks on the fire. She was shivering like tumbleweeds in a prairie

wind. Sam had been through so much already, but he was afraid this might send her into shock. He grabbed an afghan off the sofa and draped it around her shoulders, but she didn’t seem to notice, all her attention focused on the unconscious man bleeding from a gunshot wound a few feet away. The paramedics loaded him on a stretcher and when they headed for the door, Sam rose to her feet. “Sam, where are you goin’?” Lucas asked. “With Blake.” Two simple words that held a wealth of meaning. “I’m staying with Blake.” “God bless ya, lass. Call us later.” She nodded her head in acknowledgement, and then she was gone. Luke and Charlie came back into the house and life returned to normal, or what passed as normal these days. Seth took his position at the front entry, and Lucas went upstairs to call the family down for dinner. **** It was a somber meal except for the boys’ chatter. They toned down the talk around the table so as not to alarm the twins. They knew Blake was hurt because they’d champed at the bit to get downstairs when they’d heard the sirens, but that’s all they knew. Lucas and Winnie cleaned up the kitchen and allowed Luke and Zakia to spend time with their sons. Zakia was looking mighty peaked these days. “I think she’s expecting,” said Winnie, as if reading his mind. “Yeah, my mind just clued in. I wonder why they haven’t said anythin’?” “With everything else going on, I’m not surprised. Hard to celebrate a new life when you’re fighting to keep this one.” “True enough. How’d you get to be so smart?” he said as he wrapped his arms around her. “Lucas! That dish towel is wet.” She giggled. It had come up against the front of her breasts and, as he turned her to face him, could see her nipples had reacted to the cold dampness. “Hmm, looks mighty good to me.” She cupped his cheeks in her soapy hands in retaliation. “Get a dry towel and keep your mind on the dishes. We’re almost done.” “That sounds like a promise for later.”

“Much later. I want to wait until we have news of Blake. That poor man.” “That poor man knew better than to go traipsin’ off alone.” He wiped his face with the damp towel and threw it over the back of a chair, then grabbed a fresh one and continued drying the dishes. When they finished, they joined the family to watch some TV. Luke and Zakia were upstairs putting the boys to bed when Seth alerted Lucas that riders were coming. He rose and joined them in the kitchen to wait and watch. It was DuShane and his men. The officer came to the door. “Mr. Manning, I was sorry to hear about Blake.” “How did you find out?” “I called his cell, and Sam answered.” “Oh. How did the search go? Didn’t lose any men in that rain, did ya?” “No, but it was close. That river sure does rise fast. As to the search, we caught three men, Leroy Williams, his lawyer, Kincaid, and another man who isn’t giving any answers yet, but we believe it might be the doctor who owns the Hummer involved in the escape.” “Where were they?” “They’d gotten their truck stuck in the muddy river bottom. You might say the rain aided their capture.” Lucas chuckled. “Good! Glad to know they’ll all be behind bars.” “Yes, sir. We’re heading to Calgary with them now.” Lucas reached out and shook his hand. “Job well done, DuShane.” “Thank you, sir. I’ll be off. Just wanted to let you know it’s over.” “Maybe not. If’n you nabbed them three, who shot Blake?” “Kincaid. He’d stolen one of your horses and rode off, but one of Blake’s men followed. Caught up to him at the edge of the ravine. He was trying to make it back to the others.” “He joined up with them all right.” A hearty guffaw followed his words. “At least now we can rest easy. Just out of curiosity, what were they drivin’?” “A white Ford F150.” “Bastards! Winnie was right. That truck damn near ran her off the road.”

“Did she report it?” “Yep, and Blake called it in.” “Good enough. If there’s nothing else, I’ll say good night.” “Good night.” **** Winnie heard the entire conversation from where she stood in the hall. She couldn’t help the few silent tears that ran down her cheeks. How could her son have gotten mixed up with those men? They were evil! Murderers! She could still see Roy’s face, just a glimpse was all she’d had, but his anger had shown loud and clear. At her? The driver of the truck? Why hadn’t he yanked the wheel when that truck was coming at her? Or had he thought Lucas was driving? Even still, that wouldn’t make it right. He might not have any love for the Mannings, but he should respect her choices. Now he would be behind bars again. Should she go see him? Confront him? Find out what was behind all this nonsense? And his lawyer…what kind of man was he to take a pot shot at Blake like he did. Roy would need to hire another lawyer, but this time she didn’t feel inclined to offer any help. She ducked into the downstairs washroom to freshen up. It wouldn’t do for Lucas to know she’d been crying over Roy after what happened to her today. Luke and his wife were coming downstairs when she emerged, so she joined them enroute to the kitchen. Seth and Charlie were on their way out the door. “Good night, folks,” said Charlie. “I’m going to miss your fine cooking, ladies.” “Come back and visit anytime, Charlie. You’ve earned the right,” said Zakia. “Just part of the job, ma’am, but thanks just the same.” Lucas closed and locked the door behind them. “It’s over!” he said as he took his wife in his arms. “DuShane and his men are transportin’ the culprits to jail as we speak.” “I figured that’s who it was when I heard the horses. Are they still here?” “Just the men loadin’ the horses. Three cars pulled out a few minutes ago with the prisoners inside.” “So it really is over?” Zakia asked.

“Oh, Zakia. I’m so sorry for what you’ve been through on account of that no good son of mine,” said Winnie, tears filling her eyes. “Don’t you be sorry. We make our own choices in this life. You’re not responsible for Roy’s actions.” “Thank you, dear, but I can’t help feeling that I failed him somehow.” Zakia walked over and held her hands. “No one could’ve had a more wonderful and loving person for a mother. I feel bad for what this is doing to you.” “I’ll be fine. I’ve got the love of a good man. What more can a person ask?” “Actually, I’d like to ask something,” said Luke. “Would you two mind staying another night? We’d like to go check on Blake and keep Sam company.” “Off with ya. I’m going to take my woman up to bed. See you in the mornin’.” “Thanks, Dad, Winnie. We’ll be back as soon as we can.” “No rush. Stay as long as you need to. I hope he pulls through all right,” said Winnie. “Me, too,” said Zakia. **** Lucas locked up after they left and turned out the lights as they went upstairs. He hoped the cops were able to keep those guys in custody this time. He’d had enough. Although the trial was still ahead of them, hopefully they’d hold up all right. He worried about Winnie. She was much too quiet. She crossed the room to switch on the bedside light, turn down the covers, and close the drapes, creating a cozy feel to the room. He took off his shirt and held his arms open wide. She rushed into them. “Hold me, Lucas. Don’t ever let me go.” “Gladly, luv. I don’t ever want to be without you.” He kissed her then, a kiss of love, of comfort. His hands splayed across her backside as he held her to him and, as always happened with her in his arms, his cock reacted to her nearness, springing to life with a force of its own. Her hands were soft against his chest, caressing his skin and exciting his small male nipples. The kiss became passionate, demanding, their tongues dancing together to a tune only they could

hear. His body heated up, and his dick throbbed in protest at the confines of his tight jeans. He reached a hand to undo the belt, but hers were already there. When his erection sprang free he breathed a sigh of relief, then gasped as she took him in hand, her fingers rubbing up and down the length of him as her thumb smoothed over the top. His hands moved to tug her blouse free of her jeans and reached around to stroke her silky, smooth skin and undo the fastening on her bra. He pulled away long enough to slip the buttons free and eased both garments down her shoulders and off, nuzzling the vein in her neck and kissing her bared shoulders. She moaned against his ear as he cupped her full breasts, kneading and pinching lightly until the peaks stood firm. He bent forward, raising them up to his greedy mouth, hungry for a taste of her. As he nipped and suckled, her hands worked his erection feverishly, combined pleasure and pain. She started pushing at his jeans, and he did the same. Soon they stood naked in the dim light, wrapped in each other’s arms as they kissed and sidestepped toward the bed. They lay down facing each other, hands and mouths greedy for more. He reversed position and moved down her body to part her legs, eager for a taste of her honeyed essence as he burrowed face first into her curls. As concentrated as he was on giving her pleasure, he damn near exploded when he felt her lips close over his cock. He reined in, trying to regain control, but she would have none of it. She cupped his balls, playfully bouncing and caressing them as her mouth worked its magic, while he, in turn, laved her clit, making her squirm in delight. When the first flow of juices came, he lapped them up then pulled away from her to work his way back up. She was ready for him. His gaze locked on the desire he saw in her eyes as he straddled her, plunging to the hilt with one mighty thrust. Her liquid warmth enveloped him like a glove, and her legs came around him to hold him closer. She met him thrust for thrust, arching up off the bed as she did so. His hands slipped under her bottom to raise her higher. He plunged in deeper, holding her tight against him. He felt her insides contract, squeezing the length of his cock as she neared her peak. Letting go of her ass, his hands reached to raise her upper body, and he sucked on a rosy-tipped nipple. With a few short, swift thrusts,

he came in tandem with her and promptly collapsed like a rag doll at her side. Every time with her was like the first time. Glorious and earthshattering. To his dying day, he’d never get enough of this woman and the way she made him feel. He held her close to his side, his free hand smoothing the hair back from her face. “Good night, luv.” “Good night, Lucas,” she said as she snuggled in closer. He reached out and turned off the lamp, plunging the room into darkness.

Chapter Six Repetitious knocking had him awake at dawn. “Grandpa, is Grandma going to cook breakfast?” “Grampie, can we go riding today?” “Just a second you two. We’re not up yet,” answered Lucas. “The sun’s up.” Lucas chuckled. “So it is. We’ll be down in a minute or two,” he said as he watched his wife yawn and stretch. “Stay out of trouble until then.” Little voices giggled, and tiny feet scampered down the hallway in the direction of the stairs. “Care for a mornin’ tumble, luv?” he asked as he nuzzled her ear. “Ummm, and how, but I need to feed the boys before they decide to fend for themselves and make a mess of the kitchen.” “You go shower, then. I’ll wash up quick and keep an eye on the rascals. Unless you need me to wash your back?” he asked hopefully. “Not today. I didn’t hear their parents come in and don’t dare leave those two alone too long.” “Okay, luv.” He washed up, pulled on jeans and a T-shirt, and went downstairs humming a rowdy tune. His smile disappeared at the sight that greeted him. “What in thunderation happened to the kitchen? Did a tornado whiz through here?” The boys stood on chairs at the counter. They whirled to greet him, wide grins on both faces. “We’re making pancakes.” “I see that, but I think we should clean some of this up before your Grandma comes down.” He couldn’t see the counter because of the flour and batter drippings. Flour streaked both faces and covered the chairs and floor. “Okay.” They jumped off the chairs in a cloud of white dust and landed in a slimy, yellow mess that had to be a dropped egg and went slipping across the floor, giggling all the way. Good Lord! What those two didn’t get up to. Lucas started laughing and grabbed the

dishcloth. He washed up the kids, sending them up to their room to change into clean clothes then wiped up the counter, the chairs, and the floor. By the time Winnie appeared, the kitchen was spotless, as usual. The boys came back on the run, sliding the last few feet through the hall entry, stopping when they ran into Lucas’s open arms. “No runnin’ in the house. You could get hurt.” “Okay, Grandpa,” said Casey. “Okay, Grampie,” agreed Cammy. The boys spoke to him with that slight difference to Grandpa, helping him figure out who was who. He still had a difficult time telling them apart, especially when they switched places trying to fool a person. He chuckled at the ingenuity of young minds. “Your grandma is dishin’ up breakfast. Have a seat at the table. I’ll join you as soon as I doctor up a cup of coffee.” The twins laughed, but took their seats, whispering and giggling. Lucas shook his head, wondering what about. Concocting some mischief, most likely. He grinned and grabbed a mug and two glasses from the cupboard. He filled the glasses with orange juice and set them on the table for the boys, then went back to pour his coffee. The phone rang, and he stepped over to answer. “Hello…. Good mornin’, Luke. How are things? That’s great.... I can just bet you’re tired. Why don’t we take the boys with us for the day? You can come get them later…. Good enough. See you then.” He hung up the receiver and turned to see Winnie’s anxious expression. “Blake pulled through the operation all right. He’s goin’ to be okay.” “Thank God! Are they coming home now?” “Shortly, but they’ve been up all night. I offered to take the boys home with us. That okay with you?” “Of course it’s okay, but I’m not sure we have enough groceries in the house for these two munchkins. This is their third pancake—each. I swear, I don’t know where they put it all.” “Hey, guys! Save some for me. I like Grandma’s pancakes, too.” The boys giggled as he sat down. Winnie brought over a plate piled with pancakes and sausage. “Looks good, luv,” he said as he doused the pancakes with maple syrup.

She joined them a few minutes later. “So you guys are coming with us today. What would you like to do?” They both shrugged their shoulders. “Would you like to go to Fort MacLeod to see the Fort?” “Yay! I want to see the Fort,” said Cammy. “You boys will enjoy tourin’ the fort. It’s our most famous attraction. You might even get to see the Musical Ride,” stated Lucas. “What’s that,” asked Casey. “It’s a ridin’ demonstration put on by the RCMP. Worth watchin’. The horses and riders are magnificent.” “But we already know how to ride.” “Yes, but the Mounties do it special, all dressed in their uniforms,” said Winnie. “Okay,” said Casey, not sounding too enthused. “You’ll enjoy it. You’ll see. Now, go wash up and change your shirts. You guys managed to get syrup all over,” she scolded gently. **** She cleaned up the kitchen and called ahead to inquire about times for the Musical Ride. They were in luck! “You guys are in for a real treat!” she said as the boys came running back. Lucas drove, taking the twins on a mini tour of Fort MacLeod before pulling the car up to the front entrance of the fort. “Get yerselves inside and buy the tickets while I find a place to park. I’ll be right in.” Winnie purchased their tickets and as they waited for Lucas to join them, she had to laugh when the twins started galloping all over the foyer on imaginary horses. Surely, Roy wouldn’t have put these beautiful children at risk. They were an absolute delight, even though she hadn’t figured out their “twin speak” yet. The twins sat in awe as they watched the Mounties perform, and chattered all the way back to the ranch, asking questions, telling her about the “histry” of the “horse police” and wanting to go again. Answering their questions took her mind off her problems and for that, she was truly grateful. For lunch, she fixed a simple meal of baked beans and hot dogs at the boys’ request, and afterward they went riding. Their horses were all too big for two little boys, so Casey rode in front of

her and Lucas took Cammy, the more rambunctious of the two, with him. The sun shone brightly, the breeze warm as they rode west across the range. The Rocky Mountains loomed ahead, majestic in their height and breadth, the snow on the peaks reminding her of the cold weather to come. She hated the cold, but couldn’t see herself living any place else. Many were the winters in which they’d had to load the sleigh with feed for the animals and hitch it to their snowmobile, the snowdrifts being much too deep for the horses. She’d had to snowshoe her way to the barn at least twice every winter. Whiteouts meant running a rope from the veranda to the barn, either that or take a chance on turning in the wrong direction and perhaps freezing to death before you found shelter. The livestock came first on a working ranch and had to be tended to, no matter what the current weather. “Let’s rein in here so the horses can have a drink and rest a spell,” Lucas said as they came to the creek. He pulled up and dismounted, lifting Cammy down before coming to assist with Casey. To Winnie’s surprise, she’d just slung her leg over the saddle to dismount when his strong hands settled on her waist, easily helping her to the ground. In the process, her butt cheeks rubbed against the front of his jeans, and she felt the hard bulge secreted there. “Oh, my,” she exclaimed. “Yep,” he whispered in her ear. “Been hot for you since early mornin’. Guessin’ I picked the wrong day to have the twins over.” She giggled. “There’s always tonight.” He smiled lecherously. “Hold that thought.” The boys led the horses to the creek and allowed them to drink their fill while they ran around collecting pretty rocks for their Mama’s flower garden. When they had their pockets full, they mounted up and rode a circuitous route back to the ranch house, surprising some geese swimming in the pond. They took to the air in a flurry of wings that formed a magnificent V and had the boys laughing out loud, excited to see so many at once. “They’re flyin’ south. Snow’s a comin’,” said Lucas, studying the sky. “Yay! Snow!” chorused Casey and Cammy. “Not this soon, I hope,” said Winnie.

“By the looks of that sky, we’ve got rain or snow coming, and soon. Probably rain, seein’ as it’s a mite warm today, but we’ll be getting’ snow soon enough.” They stabled the horses, the boys helping to curry them as good as any pro could. As a special treat, Winnie whipped up a batch of chocolate chip cookies to go with their afternoon tea. While she was at it, she baked some lemon squares for tonight’s dessert. The Manning men all had a sweet tooth, especially for lemon and chocolate. Her squares were in the oven and afternoon tea was ready, but there was no sign of Lucas and the boys. She found them in the living room, hunched over the chessboard, all three in deep concentration. “Hey you guys! Want a snack?” “In a minute, dear,” came Lucas’s reply, his attention never leaving the chessboard. “Do ya really want to move that one, Cammy? If’n you do, Casey can take out yer queen.” “Oh.” Cammy pondered the board for another minute, decisively picked up his knight and took out Casey’s bishop. He smiled broadly and high-fived his grandfather. “Yay!” “Okay. Let’s go have our tea and when we come back, it’s Casey’s turn.” The boys trooped into the kitchen after Lucas resembling miniature soldiers on the march. Winnie couldn’t help but smile. They sure loved their grandpa. After they gulped down their snack, the three of them returned to the living room and Winnie set about preparing dinner. The phone rang. “Hello.” “Hello, who is this?” Suddenly her blood turned cold, her knees weakened, and she dropped to the floor, the phone crashing against the floor. Lucas was there in a heartbeat. “Winnie! What is it?” She pointed to the phone where they could now hear the buzzing of the dial tone. “Who was it? What did they say?” “A m…man. He…s…said…you think you’re s…safe, but…you’re not.”

“Damn! I thought this was finished when they rounded those guys up. I’ll call it in, get them to set up their equipment again.” She nodded. “May as well use this phone.” “The boys?” “They’re busy playing chess. Won’t take but a minute.” He called it in, and the dispatcher assured him someone would be out right away. “Come on, Luv. Sit with us for a spell.” “No, I’m fine. I’ll just finish making dinner, but could you check the door and window locks? Make sure the house is secure? I’d never forgive myself if something happened to those boys.” She still trembled, in shock or fear, she wasn’t sure which, but she had to do something. It might as well be cooking. “Sure, honey. I’ll do that right away.” He locked up the kitchen and pantry then disappeared toward the front of the house. She rose slowly to her feet, amazed that her legs would hold her, but after the first few steps, resolve kicked in. If they wanted her, they could come get her, but not until after those boys went home. She picked up the phone and dialed Thunder Creek, inviting them to dinner. That small action restored her sanity and when Lucas came back to check on her, she smiled reassurance. Everything would be all right. She just knew it. **** Charlie arrived with the trace equipment but had a difficult time setting up with the twins asking questions every time he plugged in a line or placed another piece of equipment on the coffee table. He was a good-natured soul who obviously adored children, and took pains to answer each question as honestly as he could without scaring them as to the reason it was necessary. Lucas tried his best to keep them from bothering him, but those grandsons of his were so doggoned inquisitive, he fought a losing battle. Finally, he gave up. “If you’re okay in here, I’ll go check on Winnie,” he said, rising to his feet. “Sure, no problem,” replied Charlie. “Everything’s about setup. Remember to let the phone ring twice before you answer.” “Will do.”

Winnie was busy at the stove when he arrived in the kitchen. “Mmmmm, that smells delicious. Fried chicken?” “Yes, along with french fries, green beans, and corn. Wanted to make sure the boys ate.” He laughed. “They’ll eat anything you set in front of them, and you know it.” She smiled. “They do have good appetites.” “Are you all right, luv?” he asked as he hooked an arm around her waist. “Yes, I’m fine. That call took me by surprise is all, what with the arrests and everything.” “Yeah, that’s the weird part of all this. Who else is involved? Maybe I should have Charlie contact DuShane.” “Not until after the twins go home. I don’t want them upset.” “Okay, Luv. Luke should be callin’ for them soon.” “I called. They’re coming for dinner.” “Good! I love havin’ me some grandkids, but those two sure wear a person out.” “I’m just glad that whoever is making those calls didn’t make a move while we were out riding this afternoon. The sooner the twins go home, the better.” “They might not be any safer at home. I’ll take Luke aside once they get here and tell him what’s going on.” “Good!” In the end, the twins beat him to it. The boys ran out to greet their parents as soon as they heard the truck pull in. Lucas followed, his hand hovering over the gun in the holster on his hip as he scanned the general area. “Daddy! Mommy! Charlie’s here with phone stuff,” yelled Cammy as he ran for his father. “What kind of phone stuff?” Luke asked, glancing at his father in concern. “The kind that answers when Grandma does,” said Casey, holding tight to his mother. “Zakia, why don’t you take the boys inside so I can have a private word with Dad?” “Come on, guys. Let’s go see what your grandma’s cooking up for dinner.”

Once they were safely inside, Luke turned to his father. “Spill it. What’s going on?” “Winnie got a threatenin’ phone call last week, and Blake set up a trace on the line, but when Roy escaped, they disconnected the equipment and moved us to Thunder Creek. Today, he called ag’in. It doesn’t make sense, Luke. Those men were all arrested.” “Apparently not. Why didn’t you tell me?” “You had enough to worry about, and once they were behind bars ag’in, I didn’t see the need. Now I’m not so sure. There must be someone else in on this.” “What’s Charlie’s take?” “Haven’t had much chance to talk it over with the twins here. Be careful, Luke. Maybe we should have Charlie request a guard for your place?” “No, I’ll have Pete stay in the house at night. He has eyes like a hawk and hears everything that moves. We’ll be all right. This time the threat’s not directed our way.” Lucas nodded his head, not sure he liked them being unprotected. “If’n you’re sure. I don’t like my Winnie being a target.” “I know exactly what you’re saying, Dad. It wasn’t easy for us either.” “How’s Blake? Any more news?” Luke smiled. “Yes, he pulled through the operation all right and is in intensive care. Sam came home with us for a shower and change of clothes, then drove back to stay with him. She even badgered the doctor into moving a cot into his room.” “That’s one feisty little gal. She’ll do all right by Blake.” “Did I tell you they’re engaged?” “No! That’s no surprise, though,” he chuckled. “I saw the looks they cast each other. Figured it was only a matter of time. Too bad it took him getting’ hurt before they realized.” “Yeah, it was a rough few days, first her accident, then him getting shot. Look, would you and Winnie like to come back to Thunder Creek? There’s always room for you.” “Thanks, son, but our place is here. If that guy calls ag’in, we need to be here to answer or we’ll never get to the bottom of this. Now, let’s join the family for dinner. Then you can take those grandsons of mine home where they’ll be safe.” “Okay, Dad.”

**** Numerous hugs and kisses saw Luke and his family off after dinner. Winnie stood on the porch beside her husband, waving until they were out of sight. “Come on, luv. Back inside where it’s safe.” As if on cue, they’d just closed and locked the door when the phone rang. “You okay to answer?” he asked, concern written on his face. “Yes,” she said as it rang a second time. “Okay to pick up now,” yelled Charlie. She picked up the receiver. “Hello.” “I hope you enjoyed your dinner. It may be your last.” “Why is that?” she asked. “Your son screwed up. We told him you’d pay if he didn’t do the job.” “What job? He’s a photographer. He can’t take pictures from jail.” Evil laughter came over the line, shivering its way down her spine. “Are you really that naive?” “Well, no. I don’t think so.” “Think again. He’s no photographer. He’s guilty, and he’s no good to me behind bars.” Charlie appeared in the doorway, giving her a thumb’s up to signal that he’d gotten the trace, flipped his cell phone open and went back into the other room. “Roy’s innocent. He told me so.” Crazy laughter again, and the phone went dead. Lucas was right there, his arms enveloping her in his warmth and bolstering her strength, as soon as she hung up the phone. “You did great, luv! Charlie got the trace.” “Yes. I’m glad. I wonder where the call came from?” “Charlie will tell us soon. Have a seat. I’ll make us a cuppa.” “Thank you. Tea sounds wonderful.” “It’s a Calgary number,” Charlie said as he rushed back into the room. “So I notified DuShane, since he’s been working that end of it. Get this—he knew the number! He’s not saying anything or naming names until he gets a warrant, but he’ll get back to us shortly.”

“You may as well join us for tea, Charlie. Could be a long wait,” said Lucas, filling another cup. “Grab the tin of cookies, too,” said Winnie. “Thanks for doing your part, Mrs. Manning. Keeping him on the line made my job a lot easier.” “Call me Winnie and, well…I just want an end to it all.” “Sounds like we may have that soon.” He took a bite of cookie. “Mmm, these sure are good!” “Thank you. Help yourself.” “Don’t mind if I do.” He helped himself to a couple more cookies as they drank their tea. “Seems strange to not have the boss around. He’ll be off work for a while.” “Eight weeks is what Sam told Luke,” said Lucas. “He’s not even allowed to ride a horse until after his six-week checkup.” “If I know Blake, he’ll be back in the saddle long before that, even if it’s just to canter across the yard,” said Charlie. “He’s got some fine looking horseflesh out on that spread of his.” “Well-trained, too. Luke and I bought a couple before the round-ups started,” said Lucas. “Yeah, some of us guys go out to lend a hand now and then, probably more so now that he’s laid up.” “That’s mighty neighborly of you,” said Lucas. “Not so much, we just like riding. Ain’t no hardship to exercise a beautiful, well-mannered horse.” Charlie grinned and downed the rest of his tea. “Guess I’ll go back to the other room in case our friend tries to call again.” “I hope DuShane gets to him before he has another chance. Whatever he’s planning, it sounded like it would be tonight,” said Winnie. “Don’t your worry none, ma’am. Charlie’s on the job.” He rose to his feet and left the room. Winnie stood and gathered up the tea things, restoring the kitchen to its usual pristine order. She couldn’t stand clutter or dirty dishes. “What do you say we join Charlie and see what’s on the tube?” asked Lucas. “Yes, we should. It’ll help pass the time while we’re waiting.”

They sat and watched a sitcom and, despite the cloud of menace hovering over them, laughed outrageously at the characters’ hijinks. DuShane called back shortly after the show ended. Judge Landers issued the warrant, and he’d acted on it in due haste. Judge Seaman was now under arrest. Winnie and Lucas both breathed a sigh of relief when Charlie delivered the news. “Come on, luv. It’s time for bed. Charlie, yer welcome to stay.” “I think I will, just in case some other scumbag crawls out of the woodwork. Goodnight now. Sleep well.” “Thanks, Charlie. I actually think I will,” said Winnie as she tucked her hand in Lucas’s and proceeded toward the master bedroom. “Very well.”

Chapter Seven Lucas flipped on the ceiling light as they entered the bedroom, closed and locked the door, and turned to take his wife in his arms. As per routine, she’d gone to switch on the bedside lamp, turn down the covers, and close the drapes. “You can turn off the overhead now, dear.” He did, then walked toward her. “I’ve been waitin’ all evenin’ for this, and I’m not waitin’ a second longer.” His arms wrapped around her, pulling her close for a kiss. A kiss that turned scorching hot and had them stripping each other in minutes. “Oh, Win! You’re so beautiful. There ain’t another woman alive who can turn me hornier than a rooster in mere seconds.” She giggled. “When are you not horny?” “With you around, never. I can’t seem to get enough of you, woman.” “And I hope you never do. Let’s go to bed.” “Not so fast.” He reached out to pull her close again, running his hands up and down her body in a lingering caress. “I love the feel of you, so soft and silky whereas I’m so hard and rough.” She reached for him then, her hand unerring in direction as she grabbed hold and boldly stroked his stiff cock. “Well now, pardon me for saying so, but it’s no good unless you’re hard.” He chuckled. “For you, always.” He picked her straight up, and she wrapped her legs around his waist as he carried her to the bed, his erection poking and bobbing at her ass with every step. He let her slide slowly down, his erection rubbing against her stomach. She backed up and lay on the bed, taking his hands to pull him down beside her. It didn’t take any effort for him to join her and haul her unresisting body into his arms. Their lips met, their tongues danced, and their hands roamed wantonly. He massaged her breasts, coaxing the rosy tips to hard peaks then skimmed her hips to cup her mound. She was hot and wet…for him. He loved how she responded to the simplest touch, arching her back to push against his hand as she moaned in delight. Their lips parted as he shifted to suckle a rosy tip. Her body squirmed beneath him. “Now, Lucas! Take me now!”

He took the other nipple in his mouth as he prodded her thighs apart with one knee. He paused to look at her face, filled with desire, as he pressed against her entrance, feeling her moist heat against the head of his cock. He pushed in slowly, pulled back and drove home again, taking his time. She’d have none of it. She grabbed his ass and tugged him forward as she arched her lower body into him, sheathing his length in her molten heat. “Impatient tonight, luv?” “Yes!” He chuckled, then gave her what she wanted, what they both needed—a hard, frenzied mating that had them soaked with sweat and gasping for each breath. His control starting to slip, he slowed and turned onto his back, with her on top, still joined. She rode him hard and fast, her breasts bobbing in his face as she leaned forward. He grabbed the full globes and brought them to his mouth, laving first one, then the other. When he nipped gently, he felt her insides contract, milking him for all it was worth, squeezing his cock and releasing repeatedly. He nipped again and with his other hand, sought the second breast and pinched the turgid peak between his thumb and forefinger, rolling it back and forth and tugging it a little for good measure. She came in a gush of liquid fire setting off his own inferno. When the tremors ceased, she collapsed on top of him. “Wow!” was all she said. “Yep, it just keeps gettin’ better and better.” She rolled to the side and snuggled in to him. “I love you, Lucas.” “And I love you, darlin’, more than life itself.” “Mmm, same here. Nite.” “Good night, luv. Sweet dreams.” Nothing felt better than having a satisfied woman in his arms. Lucas hugged her closer, smiled, and closed his eyes. Yep, felt real good. **** Charlie was awake and had the coffee on when they went downstairs the following morning. “Any more news?” Lucas asked as Winnie started cooking breakfast. “Nope, quiet night all around.”

“Well, that’s good for a change. We’ve had enough excitement around here to last a lifetime,” said Lucas. Charlie grinned in response. “You Mannings sure have kept the department busy.” “Not intentionally, but I sure do appreciate all you’ve done.” “Part of the job, Lucas. The home-cooked meals are a bonus. Something we don’t usually have on a stakeout.” “That’s the least we can do for the protection you guys have provided,” said Winnie as she fried bacon and eggs. The toast popped and she buttered it, then loaded the plates and carried them to the table before fixing her own. The phone rang shrilly in the morning quiet. Charlie ran to his equipment, and she picked up after the second ring. “Hello…yes, Officer, he’s here…. Charlie it’s for you.” “Got it,” he hollered back. She hung up the kitchen extension and joined Lucas at the table. “That was DuShane.” “So I gathered.” Winnie swirled her coffee in the cup then took a sip and resumed eating, wondering how best to approach the subject of her son. Charlie entered, smiling broadly. “Thanks to you, Mrs. M, DuShane rounded up the ringleader, and a few more of his cronies are under investigation.” “How did that come about?” Lucas asked. “It seems, according to his phone records, that Judge Seaman made conference calls to three men—two cops and a prison guard— right after he made those calls to threaten you. Reporting his progress, no doubt. All four have been placed under arrest, pending investigation results.” “Halleluiah!” said Winnie, jumping up to hug him. “It’s finally over!” “All except for the trials. Judge Landers has decided to try them all separately.” “What does this mean for Roy?” “Well, ma’am, I don’t rightly know. That depends on his story and, so far, he’s not talking.” “Lucas, can we drive up to see him? I need to talk to him.”

“After what he did? Don’t forget, he was a passenger in that truck that damned near ran you over.” “That’s it exactly! He was a passenger. Maybe those higherups coerced him into doing what he did.” “And maybe cows can jump over the moon.” He stood and paced the room. “What’s your take on the situation, Charlie?” “Well.” He thumbed his chin as if deep in thought. “Your missus may have a point. If he were to tell his story, give evidence to help convict the others, the court may be inclined to be lenient with him. They might also charge you for relaying information he’s not privy to, so you’d need to be careful what you say.” Winnie rose to her feet. “I’ll be careful. I want to hear his story, not tell him mine. We have to leave.” “No hurry. He’s not goin’ anywhere.” She gasped at the blatant remark, so unlike the dear man she’d married. “Lucas! That was cruel and uncalled for.” “Sorry, honey. All I meant was that visitin’ hours are from two to four and six until eight. I checked with Blake the first time he was arrested, remember? Plenty of time.” “Oh! All right. We can leave right after lunch then.” “Sure, luv. Sure.” He resigned himself to making the trip, if only to keep his wife happy, then helped Charlie pack up his equipment and sent him on his way. He trudged upstairs to shower and change into his “town” clothes…clean Levi’s, long-sleeved western-style shirt, and black cowboy boots, polished until they shone. All he needed was lunch, his Stetson, and a preacher’s patience. **** Lucas escorted Winnie into the building, but before they were allowed in the visitors’ area, they had to empty their pockets and walk through a metal detector. “You don’t have to come in with me, you know,” stated Winnie as they sat and waited. “I know, but I will if you need me.” He squeezed her hand in a gesture of support. “No, I think it’s best if you wait out here. I need to hear his side of things without interruption and I don’t know how long we’re allowed to visit.” “Okay, luv, just know that I’m here for you.”

She turned sideways in her seat and reached out to palm his cheek in a loving caress. “You’re the best thing that’s ever happened to me, Lucas. Never forget how much I love you.” “How could I forget? I love hearing those three little words every day.” He chuckled and brought her hand to his mouth, kissing each finger in turn. The door opened, and the guard called their names. “You go visit Roy. I’ll wait here.” He watched her when she stood, her bearing straight and tall as the guard escorted her from the room. With all his heart, he wished things were different. She was hurting something terrible, and there was nothing he could do to ease her pain. His anger surged to the forefront, and he couldn’t help hoping that Roy would rot in jail. Although he wanted to ease her burden, he wouldn’t be hypocritical enough to assure Winnie otherwise. **** He was waiting where she’d left him and, together, they walked out of the police station without a word said until they arrived at the truck. Lucas opened the passenger door and assisted her in climbing in. “Are you all right, darlin’?” “I will be. Roy says he can be out on bail after the hearing.” “Is he loco? Kidnappin’ is a federal offense. Not to mention everything else he’s been involved in.” “Roy assured me he didn’t do it.” “Um, hmm.” “What does that mean?” He closed the door and walked around the truck to climb in behind the wheel. “Winnie, think about it. He’s not goin’ to admit to anythin’ with all those cops hangin’ around. It’s not as if you could speak privately in there.” “My boy has never lied to me! He’s telling the truth.” “Harrumph! You’ve got it in mind to believe whatever makes you happy, but I think you’d best prepare for the worst.” “I won’t. He said he didn’t do it, and that’s good enough for me.” She sat back in her seat and buckled up, not willing to say another word. At least she had her answer. There wouldn’t be any

help coming from the Mannings. She’d have to figure this one out on her own. Lucas parked beside the house and helped a silent Winnie down from the truck. “I’ve got chores to do.” He turned on his heel to head to the barn and tend to the evening chores, leaving her standing there in silent frustration. Winnie’s heart filled with dread. It was beyond her right now to play the part of a caring, loving wife. If only she could crawl back into bed and wake up once this mess was over and done with. She’d never backed away from a fight, but it was oh, so tempting! No! She had to be strong for Roy. He needed her. **** Over the next few days, Lucas saw a side to Winnie he never would’ve believed possible. She sulked, pouted, and gave him the silent treatment, no matter how much he tried to tease a smile out of her. It was almost a relief to set out for Calgary early Monday morning. At least she couldn’t walk away from him when he tried to reason with her. “I made arrangements with DuShane to see Roy before the hearin’.” “Why? So you can tell him what a scumbag he is?” His hands tightened on the wheel. He took a deep breath and counted to ten…then twenty. “No. We’re allowed to talk to him privately, no guards, cops or lawyers.” “Why would you do that?” “For you, for us. We need to hear his story and if, mind you it’s a big if from where I’m sittin’, but if he’s as innocent as he says he is, I’ll arrange bail.” “You’d do that for Roy?” “For you—that and more,” he said with a sideways glance her way, “but don’t get your hopes up. That boy has a lot of explainin’ to do.” She sighed audibly and relaxed back against the seat. “I know, Lucas. I’m not such a fool as to think he’s totally innocent in all this, but I want to do right by him. You know?” “Yeah, I know.” He parked the truck and walked into the courthouse with Winnie by his side. As before, he gave their names to the bailiff, and

he showed them to the same austere room. This time, they didn’t have long to wait. The door opened, and Roy sauntered in, the lock snicking into place as the guard left them alone. Winnie jumped up and ran to him, sobbing as she engulfed him in a motherly hug. “How are you? I’ve been so worried.” Roy shot a dark-eyed glare his way then snarled, “What’s he doing here?” “Lucas drove me here.” “Then he can wait outside. I’m not talking to a damned Manning.” “If that’s the way you feel, we’ll leave,” Winnie said, pulling away from her son. “After all, I’m a Manning, too.” “Mama, I didn’t mean you,” Roy backpedaled. “Then sit. You’ve got some explaining to do,” she said. Lucas had never been more proud of his wife than at that moment when she took charge. He joined them as they sat at the small table, trying his best to stay as calm as possible. “Did you bring the money?” Roy asked his mother. “Don’t need it,” replied Lucas. Roy snorted. “I should’ve known not to expect any help from you, old man.” “Leroy! Show some respect! We’re here to help if we can, but we can leave just as easy.” Roy’s head jerked toward his mother’s sharp tone, a tone Lucas had never once heard her use before. “What do you want to know?” “For starters, why did you lie to me? The police have some pretty damaging evidence against you.” “Mama, I don’t want to talk about this with him here,” he said, poking his thumb in Lucas’s direction. “If you don’t talk to us and convince us you had a damned good reason for doin’ what you did, there’ll be no need for bail money. You won’t be out of here for years to come,” Lucas said. “But my lawyer said he’d have me out on bail.” “Kincaid got arrested when you did,” Lucas reminded him. “Not Kincaid, another guy, Braddock or something.” “Who hired him?” “I thought Mama did.”

“No, Roy. I didn’t,” she said. “I’ll have him checked out, but Roy, kidnappin’ is a federal offense. So is murder. That rules out bail, but there might be hope for you yet if’n you come clean.” Lucas spoke soft yet firm as he stated the facts. “There’s more to this than we’ve been told. Level with us. I can’t promise anythin’, but I could pull in a few favors.” “And why would you do that for me?” he asked sarcastically. “Not for you—for your mother. If it were up to me, I’d let you rot behind bars. Now start talkin’. Why did you target Zakia?” Roy squirmed in his seat, his eyes carefully scanning the room. “Is this room secure?” “No hidden cameras or Michaels, if that’s what you’re askin’.” “Roy, how did this all come about?” Winnie asked. He heaved a heavy sigh and slumped in his chair. “It’s a long story.” “We’re listening,” she said. “When they released me from the hospital after the fire, I decided to move to Calgary and bought the duplex with some of the insurance settlement. By renting out the other half, I had extra income without ever stepping foot outside. I hated the stares from passersby. Hell! I hated getting up in the morning and having to look in a mirror. Those first few months, I lived like a hermit, even had groceries delivered, until my skin healed enough for more intensive plastic surgery. “Then, I began the process of finding a doctor to do the reconstructive surgery. They were all so damned expensive! Most of my money from the insurance went into the house. With only a few thousand left, and the doctors all wanting full payment upfront, I felt doomed to remain a monstrous figure of a man…until one day when a doctor called me to schedule an appraisal, as he called it. “He’d heard about me from another doctor and become intrigued. My injuries required the exact type of surgery he’d specialized in, and he asked if I could come to his office the following afternoon? I went.” “What does all this have to do with the current situation?” Lucas asked. “Get to the point.” Roy shot him an angry look, but continued. “The point is, he agreed to do the surgeries and take payments at regular intervals, after each surgery. When it came time for the final surgery, he wanted the

money up front, but I didn’t have it. He refused to operate. I begged. I pleaded, but all he did was show me to the door. “I was furious! To come so far and have to walk away didn’t seem fair. The area around my eyes still grossly scarred, I went home and resolved to raise the money somehow, but the final surgery was the most expensive. I seriously considered selling the house when I couldn’t raise the money, but the doctor surprised me by calling back. He’d do the surgery, but I’d owe him. He’d call in a favor sometime. I was ecstatic! I agreed immediately. What I didn’t know was that he had a grudge against Magnus Fielding, Zakia’s father.” “So that’s when this all started?” asked Lucas. “Not right away. He performed the surgery, allowing me time to heal then hit me with his favor. At first, he only wanted me to follow Zakia, make her squirm, and report back to him, which I did. It was pure luck that had her rent the other half of my duplex. Made it easier to keep tabs on her.” He paused and looked around. “Do you think I could have a drink of something? Coffee would be good.” Lucas thought it was just a ruse for him to make up the rest of the story, but he went to the door and knocked to get the guard’s attention. The door opened. “Yes?” “Do you think we could have coffee sent in?” “I’ll check with DuShane.” “Thank you.” He waited by the closed door until the guard came back, three coffees in a cardboard tray, complete with cream and sugar packets. Lucas took the tray. “Thanks. Much appreciated.” The guard nodded and closed the door, and Lucas went back to sit at the table. Roy fixed his coffee and took a sip, then started talking again. “Soon, following her wasn’t enough. He ordered me to capture her and hide her for an unknown expanse of time. I think he intended to hold her for ransom: blackmail her father. I tried leaving cryptic messages, to warn her, but she just seemed to ignore them.” “Roy, those messages near scared her out of her wits. Why would you agree to such a thing?” Winnie asked. “I’m sorry, Mama, but he knew all about me, about the ranch, the fire, the Grayson Spread, and he knew about you. If I hadn’t followed through, he would’ve gone after you. I’d gotten myself into this mess, and I thought I could play the hand he’d dealt without

anyone getting hurt. I was wrong. Each time I failed, he threatened your life in sinister ways, and I became desperate to finish my dealings with him. Tell Luke I’m sorry about the kitten, the pup and everything else. I went half-crazy trying to protect you, Mama.” “Does your lawyer know all this?” Lucas asked. “No.” He snorted. “I don’t know him from Adam and didn’t tell him dick shit. Sorry, Mama. And if you didn’t hire him, I’m afraid he might be one of them.” “Them who?” Lucas was quick to ask. “Doc has his own group of mafia-type thugs. They’d come pick me up and make me watch as they beat the crap, or worse, out of people who’d wronged them. That’s how I knew he was serious about using Mama for retribution if I failed. I need to get out of here to make sure she stays safe. A knock at the door preceded its opening. DuShane popped his head inside. “Court’s in five minutes. You about finished in here?” Lucas thought for a moment, deliberating on his choices. “Do you think you can smuggle the DA in here without Roy’s lawyer knowin’?” “I can try.” “All right. See if they’ll postpone Roy’s hearin’ while you’re at it and run a check on Roy’s new lawyer. No one seems to know how he happened to be here.” “Phew! This better be good is all I can say. Back in a few.” When DuShane returned it was to usher the three of them down a back hallway to the judge’s chambers. “Roy’s lawyer is already in court. The Judge and the District Attorney are waiting for you in chambers. Am I allowed to sit in on this one?” “The more the merrier,” quipped Roy, earning a dark scowl from DuShane. “I think you should,” stated Lucas, shushing Roy with a stern look. “Some of the fall-out from this could affect your entire investigation.” “Oh, shit!” said DuShane, immediately contrite when he remembered Winnie was within hearing distance. “Sorry, Mrs. Manning.” They stopped in front of a door, and DuShane knocked lightly. It opened immediately to admit them.

Judge Landers exuded confidence as he stood to welcome them. “Please, come in, have a seat. Mr. Grayson, this is highly unusual. Are you certain you want to speak without counsel present?” “Yes, Your Honor, I’m sure.” “Then we shall proceed. Matt Fellowes here is the residing District Attorney. I understand you two are Mr. Grayson’s mother and step-father.” “Yes, Your Honor, Lucas and Winifred Manning,” Lucas replied. The judge sat behind his desk, his expression thoughtful as he spoke. “Do you mind if I record our conversation?” At Roy’s nod, he pushed the button on the machine on his desk. He recorded the date and time and the occupants of the room, then asked, “What can I do for you, Mr. Grayson?” Roy retold his tale, this time relating the events leading up to the escape and their recapture. When he finished, there was absolute quiet. Had the judge believed him? Did the DA? “Mr. Grayson, that’s quite a story, but it hasn’t explained why you wanted to share it without your lawyer present.” “I think my lawyer may be one of Doc’s men. I didn’t hire him and neither did Mama.” “Understood.” The judge’s single word decisive. Suddenly, he rose. “Excuse me for a moment. I need to speak with the bailiff and have him postpone court appearances this morning.” Lucas breathed a sigh of relief, as did Winnie and Roy. DuShane moved to the window, his back to the room. Lucas noted his stiff posture and wondered what he was thinking. Would the family diagnostics help influence any decisions he might have to make here? Or would he try to convince the judge that Roy had concocted this story to save his hide? What of the DA? He continued to sit there, jotting notes on a yellow legal pad, seemingly uninterested in the other people in the room. Roy’s voice broke the stillness. “Lucas, would you call Thunder Creek and have them be on guard. It’s in their best interests not to admit strangers right now. With the judge canceling court

today, anything is possible, especially if my lawyer gets a hint of what’s going on.” “I’ll take care of it,” said DuShane. “They came up for the hearin’ but I think Pete, Luke’s ranch hand, is watchin’ the boys,” said Lucas. DuShane pulled out his cell phone and dialed the ranch. “No answer. I’m going to find Luke.” “Text him the info so no one overhears,” suggested Roy. “Good thinking,” he acknowledged with a swift glance in Roy’s direction. “Tell him I’m coming to get him,” said the DA, rising to his feet. His strides conveyed a sense of urgency as he left the room. Lucas gave Winnie’s hand a comforting squeeze, trying to convey that everything would be all right.

Chapter Eight Winnie listened intently as Roy recounted his tale, embellishing the details for the judge. She was amazed that he’d gone through all that, and she hadn’t known. Why didn’t he come to them, explain what was going on, and enlist their help? He hadn’t hesitated to ask them for bail money. Why hadn’t he asked for help with the surgery? She gave her head a mental shake. What was she thinking? That wasn’t Roy’s way of doing things. He’d always been fiercely independent; even more so since the fire. She’d wanted him to come home where she could tend to him until he’d truly healed. He’d refused. With insurance settlement in hand, he’d moved to Calgary as soon as the hospital released him. He’d been lucky Luke hadn’t pressed charges. Thunder Creek stood to lose a lot if one of their barns burned down. Roy’s visits were sporadic at best, Mother’s Day, her birthday, Christmas. After she’d married Lucas, his visits had pretty much stopped altogether, substituting weekly phone calls instead. Maybe the current situation would work for some good if it brought these two men to an understanding of each other. They’d never be close, she knew that, but the tension between them put a heavy strain on her relationship with Lucas whenever Roy did come around. The judge got to his feet and rushed out the door, effectively interrupting her thoughts. Lucas squeezed her hand in support, and she turned to him, the serious expression on his face softened by the hint of a smile. Everything would be all right. He didn’t have to say the words, so attuned was she to his nuances. Soft pressure from her hand reassured him she understood. When the DA left, her worry began anew. Would Roy’s doctor really come after her as he’d threatened? Would he go after Luke and Zakia again? Were the twins in danger? She loved those boys, pranks and all. Life sure wasn’t dull with them around. It reminded her of when her two youngest were small. She’d birthed them within a year of each other, so it was almost like having twins. They couldn’t switch places as the grandkids did, but they could sure get up to a bundle of mischief.

The opening door preceded a room full of people as Judge Landers led them into his domain. Lucas rose to greet Luke and Zakia, effectively curtailing Luke’s furious move toward Roy. “It’s all right, my boy. You need to sit and listen.” “Listen? To what?” Luke growled. “Some trumped up story to save his own ass?” “I don’t think so. Neither does the judge or the DA or we wouldn’t be standing here.” Luke hugged Zakia to his side, a thoughtful expression crossing his features as he looked into her eyes. A brief nod from his wife and he said, “All right, Dad. We’ll listen.” He nodded to acknowledge Winnie, and she thought he’d probably avoided a scene for her benefit. For whatever reason, she appreciated his willingness to listen. The DA and a hardy, no-nonsense looking woman sat near the judge’s desk, notepad in hand. A bailiff entered with more chairs and everyone sat, waiting quietly until the judge spoke. “Roy Grayson is charged with many crimes directed toward the Manning family, specifically Zakia. I’ve recorded his story and will play it back now for those in this room. Lila here.” He pointed to the extra woman. “Will be taking notes and typing up a statement for Mr. Grayson to sign. Please hold all questions until the end.” Nods of acceptance came from all in attendance. Judge Landers hit the play button on the recorder, and Roy’s voice filled the room. As requested, all remained quiet for the duration. Winnie watched each person in turn as the story played loud and clear into the stillness of the room. How did Zakia feel being in the same room as her abductor? Luke seemed skeptical, but listened with rapt attention. When the judge turned off the recording, he asked, “Does anyone have any questions?” “Names,” said Luke. “He hasn’t named any names. Who are these people?” “Except for the men already in custody, who they are will not be revealed except to the DA and I. If his story checks out, we’ll arrange witness protection until these men are brought to trial.” He looked straight at Luke. “The last thing this case needs is some hotheaded, well-meaning person turning vigilante and taking justice into their own hands. Understood?”

Luke nodded, as did everyone involved. “Will Roy be allowed out on bail?” Winnie asked. “I’m afraid not, Mrs. Manning. Releasing him at this point would tip them off and put his life on the line.” “Oh,” she said, glancing apologetically toward her son. Roy nodded in understanding, addressing the judge. “Your Honor, how long are we talking about here? Another day? A week? How much time will I have to spend behind bars?” His voice came out slightly whiny, which seemed to perturb the judge. “Not nearly as long as you’d be serving time for your offences, young man.” “Sorry, sir.” Roy actually sounded contrite if one discounted the petulant expression. “Your hearing has been rescheduled for two weeks’ time. In the duration, we’ll be checking into your story and arranging a safe house. Any other questions?” “Can I be transferred home to Fort MacLeod?” “I’ll check into it. Any particular reason?’ “My, uh, cellmate, he’s been making advances and, uh, threats. I think he may have connections to them.” “If not Fort MacLeod, I’ll arrange a private cell, but you’d still have interaction with him at recreation periods.” “Understood, Your Honor. Thank you.” Zakia spoke up then. “Your Honor, this man has terrorized us for almost three years. Are you saying he’ll get off scot-free?” “If he turns over the masterminds behind this scheme, then yes, it’s possible. Does that bother you, Mrs. Manning?” She cast a swift glance in Winnie’s direction. “In a way, yes, it does bother me, but his mother doesn’t deserve to be dragged through this. And we’re all family. I’ll abide by whatever decision you think is best.” “Thank you, Mrs. Manning. You’re being most gracious under the circumstances.” His attention turned to the others in the room. “Any other questions or comments?” When no one else spoke up, he continued. “Officer DuShane, can I assume that you will arrange protection for both Manning families?”

“Yes, Your Honor,” he assured him. “This discussion is dismissed. I’ll ring for the bailiff to accompany you to your transportation, Mr. Grayson.” Roy nodded and remained seated as everyone else filed out, until his mother approached him. He stood and gave her a huge hug. “Thanks for believing in me, Mama. After that truck incident, I wasn’t sure you would. Thank God you got out of there. My heart was in my throat the whole time, but as I told the judge, I was handcuffed to the seat.” “I have always believed in you, Roy. I love you.” “I love you, too, Mama. Thank Lucas for me.” “I will.” She walked over to where her husband waited at the door, but before she left, she looked back one more time. Was that a confident smirk on her son’s face? Had he played them all for fools? Surely, the judge would seek out the truth…whatever it may be. **** They met Braddock halfway down the hall. “What’s going on here? Where’s my client?” he thundered. “I’m not at liberty to say, but this is for you.” DuShane handed him a sheet of paper. “What’s this all about?” “You read it. You’re under arrest, pending investigation.” Braddock’s pale skin paled even more. “Investigation for what? This doesn’t say.” “No, it doesn’t, does it? Bailiff, arrest this man and hold him for me, will you?” “On what grounds?” demanded Braddock. “Suspicion to conspire against justice, for starters. Confiscate his phone and take him away. Here’s the warrant, signed by Judge Landers himself.” Lucas smiled to see another high-class criminal bite the dust. Blake was going to love hearing about this. “Dad, we’re going to stop off at the hospital to see Blake.” “Is that wise, Son?’ “Yeah, just cleared it with DuShane when we were waiting for you.” “What about the twins?” “They’re fine. I got through to Pete a few minutes ago.”

“Okay. Off with you then. We’re headed home. Stay safe and say hello from us.” “Will do. See you later.” One of DuShane’s men drove them home again, only this time it wasn’t a convoy, just a single guard for protection until the investigation was complete. Charlie waited for them at the house. **** “Lucas, what if Roy’s not telling the truth? I mean, the whole truth?” she asked in the privacy of their bedroom. “Why are you doubtin’ him now?” he asked as he pulled her close to his side. “I’m not. It’s just, well, he’s involved up to his neck. How much did he sugarcoat the truth do you think?” “Anybody in his position would try to save their own butt first. That’s a given. Judge Landers struck me as being pretty sharp. I don’t think he’ll act on anythin’ Roy says until he’s certain of the facts.” “Good! As much as I love him, I’d hate to see him get off easy if he’s truly guilty.” “I know, luv. We did what we could for him, but the rest is up to the justice system.” “Thank you for listening and for requesting the meeting with the judge.” “You know I only did that for you. His story did ring true in places, though.” “Yes, I felt that, too.” “But?” She wasn’t sure she should voice her concerns when Lucas was willing to help Roy, yet because of his willingness to help, she felt she owed him the truth. “When that truck came at me?” “Yeah. What about it?” he asked, concern evident in his expressive face. “I could’ve sworn one of Roy’s hands was on the dash.” She felt his body stiffen. In anger? “If so, then that boy has a lot to answer for.” His words were measured, as if carefully thought out before speaking. “I know, and I feel guilty for not mentioning it before…in the judge’s chambers.”

“Well, you’re not sure so I don’t think they’d hold it against you if that turns out to be the case. Now stop frettin’ and give your man some lovin’.” “With pleasure!” She raised on one elbow to lean over and plant a loving kiss on his mouth, her hand finding its way to his cheek to hold him where she wanted him. His arms came around to gather her closer; the kiss grew deeper, more passionate as his hands began to travel. One tangled in her hair while the other rubbed her ass, creating a sizzling sensation that rioted through her entire system. Making love to Lucas always thrilled her to the core, a core that was already drenched with need and begging to be filled. When his hand slid down to cup her wet mound, she squirmed in delight, turning slightly and throwing one leg over him so he could gain better access. One finger ventured into her chasm, and she arched against his hand, rotated on it as she would his cock. His mouth captured a nipple, sucking heartily on it until it beaded, laving and nipping until she moaned for more. Suddenly, she found herself on top of him as he lifted her into position. “Ride me, sweetheart. Show me how much you love this old stallion.” “Oh, yeah. I’ll show you.” She reached a hand between their bodies and grasped his hardened length, rubbing up and down his cock until it stiffened even more. Placing the head at her entrance, she lowered her body, bit by bit, until she’d sheathed him within her heat. She began to ride. Up and down, around and around, moving and gyrating to an inborn rhythm. He sucked in a breath and gripped her ass, trying to slow her movements in an effort to gain control, but she moved even faster, seeking relief. Their rhythm increased in tempo, and he thrust upwards, her insides clenching as she climaxed. A few quick, hard thrusts later, he joined her, pulling her down for another kiss as he came. “You are sensational!” he said. “You’re not too bad yourself, cowboy.” He chuckled. “Does that mean I’m not too good either?” She swatted him playfully. “You’re the best, and you know it.”

“How would I know?” he asked as his hands caressed her ass in slow circling motions. “I’ve told you often enough. Don’t you listen when I speak?” “I hear every word, Luv. Every last word.” He kissed her nose, nuzzled her neck, nibbled on her ear, and slowly pulled back to look at her. “Ready for another round?’ “Yeah, but this time you can do the work.” He expertly flipped her onto her back and she giggled. A giggle that was cut short when he cupped her breasts, sank his face in the valley between and stilled, his entire weight coming to rest on top of her. “Lucas?” No answer. “Lucas!” No answer. She rolled him off to the side and felt for a pulse. It wasn’t there! She straddled him, applied CPR, tears streaming down her cheeks as she continued to call his name, and worked tirelessly to revive him. “Don’t you die on me, Lucas Manning! Don’t you dare!” Finally, a pulse! She grabbed up the bedside phone and dialed 911, giving the details to the dispatcher, one hand constantly on his wrist to make sure the pulse continued. Once the ambulance was on its way, she diverted all her attention back to the man she loved. He wasn’t breathing right. With his head tilted back, she pinched his nose and breathed into his mouth. Again…and again, until his breathing evened out, less harsh. When she heard the sirens, she left his side long enough to dress, hurriedly pulling on the clothes she’d recently discarded. She grabbed his robe, slippers, and clean briefs, stuffing them in a bag to take to the hospital. Her purse, where was her purse? She must have left it in the kitchen. Opening the door, she ran through the house, forgetting all about the guard on duty. His sudden appearance frightened her beyond belief. She stopped in mid-flight to catch her breath. “Charlie! I forgot you were here.” “I came on shift at four. What’s wrong?” “An ambulance is coming for Lucas. I think he had a heart attack.”

“You go back to him. I’ll let them in.” “Okay. Find my purse will you?” she said as she raced back to the bedroom. “It’s on the kitchen counter. I’ll bring it to you.” He let the paramedics in and brought her purse to her, wrapping a comforting arm around her to hold her back out of the way as the attendants did their job. Soon, they had him loaded on a stretcher, an oxygen mask over his nose and mouth and wheeled him out the door. “You ride with Lucas. I’ll lock up and follow behind.” “Thanks, Charlie. Call Luke will you?” “Don’t you worry none. I’ll get hold of him and meet you at the hospital.” She nodded in response and scampered into the ambulance. No way were they taking her man without her! She sat as close to him as she could, holding his hand during the entire trip. **** Nurses hurried and scurried back and forth, machines beeped, buzzed, and flashed here and there. Winnie sat in the small family waiting area in acute care while the doctors worked on her man. She couldn’t lose him now. She just couldn’t! He’d suffered another attack on the way in and the paramedic went to work immediately, bringing him back to her for a second time. How much could one heart stand? He was only forty-seven, too young and strong to have a heart attack. She heard a squeaky sound coming up the corridor just before Sam arrived in the open doorway, pushing Blake in a wheelchair. “Oh, Winnie! How horrid! Have you heard anything?” Sam asked, enveloping her in a welcome hug. “No, I’ve just been sitting here, waiting and waiting,” she said, trying to hold back a fresh bout of tears. “How did you find out?” “Charlie called Luke and Zakia called me. They’re on their way, but didn’t want you waiting alone.” “Thank you for coming.” “We could’ve been down here sooner if that blasted nurse of mine hadn’t insisted on getting a doctor’s permission to let me leave the floor,” said Blake. “Well, she was only doing her job and looking out for what’s best for you. You’re here now and for that I’m grateful.”

“How are you holding up?” asked Blake. She attempted a smile of reassurance, but felt its weakness. No sense trying to be brave in front of these two after all they’d just been through. “As well as can be expected, I suppose.” “Waiting is hell,” blurted Sam. “Yes, it certainly is.” A nurse came to the door. “Mrs. Manning?” “Yes?” Winnie answered as she stood. “Your husband is stable at the moment and resting peacefully, but will require immediate surgery. Dr. Walker will be in to explain the procedure in a moment.” “Can I see Lucas?” “You’ll have to ask the doctor, but a few minutes shouldn’t be a problem. Anything else?” “No. Yes! This Dr. Walker…is he a specialist?” The nurse smiled encouragingly. “He’s a cardiothoracic surgeon; the best in his field. No worries there.” Winnie relaxed her stance and let out a breath she hadn’t been aware of holding. “Thank God.” “Here he is now. Dr. Walker, Mrs. Manning.” “Good evening, Mrs. Manning. As you know, your husband has suffered two severe heart attacks within a very short time. Those were brought on by a narrowing of the arteries due to plaque build-up. Was he aware that his cholesterol was high?” “Yes, and for the most part, I’ve adjusted our meals accordingly.” He nodded his head. “That’s good, but I suspect he’s been having chest pain for some time now?” “Well, yes, some, but he put it down to indigestion. We’ve been under considerable stress lately.” “Which all contributes to coronary heart disease, commonly referred to as hardening of the arteries. I’ve started him on antiplatelet and anti-coagulant medications. This will prevent any further growth of blood clots in his arteries. We need to open the clogged arteries as quickly as possible to restore blood flow to the heart’s muscle.” Winnie nodded but didn’t say a word. “An angioplasty—inserting a balloon to open the artery—will work for two of the clogged arteries. For the other two, I will need to

perform a surgical procedure defined as cardiac artery bypass grafting, which involves taking a good vein, usually from the leg, and using it to replace the damaged arteries in the heart. For this, I will need written consent. Are you all right with this?” “What are his chances without the surgery?” “Without replacing those two veins his activities will be severely limited and heart muscle will continue to die from lack of oxygen. With the surgery, he has a ninety percent chance of leading a normal life.” “Then, of course I’ll sign, but can I see him before the surgery?” “Certainly. Nurse, will you show Mrs. Manning to her husband’s room?” “Right this way.” She looked toward Blake and Sam. “Can you wait?” “We’ll wait right here,” said Sam. “Thank you.” Winnie hurried after the nurse. She entered the room and rushed to her husband’s side, alarmed by the multitude of IV’s and monitors they had hooked up to him. “Lucas, darling, I’m here,” she said, taking his hand in hers. A gentle squeeze preceded a brief fluttering of his eyelids before they opened to focus in on her. “Hi, luv. Not exactly how I expected our evenin’ to end.” His speech was lazy, slurred somewhat, due to the drugs, she supposed. “Don’t worry about that, just get better so I can take you home again.” “For you, anythin’. I’ll be fit as a fiddle in no time.” “I’ll hold you to that. They’re taking you to surgery soon, but I’ll be waiting right here when you wake up.” “Love you, Win,” he whispered as his eyes fell closed again. “I love you, too, Lucas.” She leaned forward to brush the hair back from his forehead and kiss his lips, reassured by the warmth she felt. “See you soon, my darling.” Luke and Zakia waited for her in the hall. “How’s Dad?” he asked. “Holding on. He’s certainly seen better days,” she said. “They’ve given him something for the pain, and he’s resting right now, but they’ll be taking him up to surgery soon.”

“Yes, Sam told us. Can I see him?” “I’m sure that would be all right, dear. Go on in. I’ll wait for you here.” “Thanks.” They disappeared into Lucas’s room, and she leaned heavily against the wall for support. Please, God! Guide the surgeon’s hands and let my Lucas pull through.

Chapter Nine The nurse guided them to the waiting area outside the recovery room. Their wait was long, interminable at times, but having the support of friends and loved ones helped her make it through. “Winnie, do you know if Dad has a number for Leah? She should be here.” “No, Luke. It frustrates him to no end, but she won’t leave a phone number or an address. He worries about her so much.” “Yeah, I know. Have you called your sons?” “No, they’re busy with their own lives and by the time they got here, the worst will be over. I’m just thankful to have you all here.” Sam and Zakia sat on each side of her. Blake had long since had to return to his room, but Sam had stayed. Luke made several coffee runs and brought sandwiches back with him the last time. She hadn’t felt much like eating, but they bullied her into it. “Come on, Winnie. You’re going to need your strength to deal with that hard-headed father of mine.” That coaxed a smile out of her. “He hates being sick. And he’s worse than a little kid for whining and complaining, but I don’t mind. It’ll give me a chance to pamper him a bit, whether he likes it or not.” “Oh, I suspect he’ll enjoy the attention well enough. It’s not being able to come and go as he pleases that gets him down. He’ll want to be out riding as soon as he gets home.” Winnie chuckled. “Yes, you Manning men are all the same. As long as you can ride a horse, you’re fine.” “He’ll be right as rain before you know it.” “I hope so, Luke. I certainly hope so.” The doctor appeared in the doorway, his face a wreath of smiles. “That’s one tough hombre. He made it through the operation just fine.” “Thank, God!” said Winnie, jumping to her feet, fresh tears formed to run unchecked down her cheeks. “Can I see him?” “In a few minutes. We need to settle him in Cardiac Intensive Care first. I’ll have the nurse come get you then.” “I don’t know how to thank you, Dr. Walker.”

He smiled a soft, comforting smile. “You just did.” With a quick wave, he turned on his heel and left. Lucas slung an arm around her, and she noted the glisten of tears in his eyes. “He’s going to be okay, Luke. Isn’t that fantastic?” “Best news I’ve heard all day.” He smiled and hugged her. Zakia and Sam joined them, and they stood in the middle of the room, laughing and crying with relief as they hugged each other. **** Lucas made excellent progress, and they moved him from the CICU on the second day. He still had a long recovery ahead of him, but he’d be all right. Winnie stayed by his side day and night those first few days, going home only to shower and change into clean clothes. Now that he was in a regular room, Winnie would have to leave each evening, which meant driving home alone after dark. He worried about her driving back and forth every day. He fairly champed at the bit, wanting his walking papers. Although still weak, he tried to convince his doctor to release him, but he wouldn’t. “I can heal just as good in my own home. Might just get up and walk on out anyway.” Dr. Walker called his bluff. “Mr. Manning, I’ve done my best to repair the damage to your heart and now you need time to heal. If you’re so certain you’re well enough to go home, then walk to the end of the hall and back. When you can accomplish that, I’ll sign your release papers.” “Fair enough,” he said as he shifted to the edge of the bed and sat up. He put his feet on the floor and stood, but would have fallen if not for the doctor’s strong arms and quick reflexes. “Harrumph! I’ll try ag’in later.” His incision burned, and he felt as weak as a wet dishrag by the time he crawled back beneath the covers. “I wouldn’t advise you to try again until tomorrow. Make sure there’s someone with you when you do.” Luke and Zakia stopped by that afternoon with the children. “I know this probably isn’t the best time, and we don’t want to tire you out too much, but the twins needed reassurance that their grampie was okay.” “It’ll take more than a couple ‘a clogged arteries to keep me down. The sooner I’m outta here, the better.”

Luke put the side rails up to prevent the boys from climbing onto the bed. As it was, they stood on the rails. “Lift them up, one at a time, so I can have me some hugs.” “Sure, Dad.” Lucas gave them each a hug and a raspberry then motioned for Luke to set them down again. “Do you need anything, Dad?” “A drive home?” “They’re releasing you already?” “No, just wishin’ is all.” Luke chuckled. “Don’t be too hard on the nurses. Your being here isn’t their fault.” “Yeah, I know.” “We’ll head home now but we’ll check in with you tomorrow.” He herded the twins toward the door, and Zakia stepped up to give him a hug and kissed his cheek. “What’s bugging you, Lucas?” He eyed her shrewdly. “You don’t miss much. I’m worried about Winnie driving back and forth and being alone.” “She’s welcome to stay with us. Where is she?” “I sent her to the cafeteria to get somethin’ to eat, but thanks. I’ll extend your offer when she returns.” “Okay, see you tomorrow.” He issued the invitation, but she shook her head. “It’s too far to travel and besides, Charlie is at the house. It’s not like I haven’t been alone before.” “I know, but I worry.” “Then don’t. I can survive a few days without you snoring beside me. Might even manage to sleep,” she teased. If only it was that easy to stop worrying. If he could, his blood pressure might return to normal, and he’d get out of here faster. The only solace for his peace of mind was that Charlie had stayed on at the house. He’d look out for Winnie while he was laid up. In the meantime, he had the phone in his room hooked up so she could call when she arrived home, but it was a poor substitute for being with her. Cranky and irritable, he didn’t earn any favor with the nursing staff.

Reading didn’t hold his interest. Neither did the miniscule television Winnie had insisted on. He worried, fretted, and finally slept, if you could call it that with the nurse coming in every hour to check his temperature and blood pressure. When the doctor did release him four days later, Lucas baulked at the restrictions placed on him, even though he was still very weak and in a great deal of pain. “No drivin’, no ridin’, no sex…he may as well have let me die.” “Lucas! Don’t talk like that! It’s not forever. Be glad you’re alive. I know I am.” “Aw, Luv. You know I wouldn’t leave you. Come on over here and give your man a hug.” He sat in the recliner, his sore leg propped up to encourage better circulation. She went to him and hugged him tight, careful not to pull him or put any strain on his incision. “It’s great to have you home again.” “It’s good to be home. Hospitals are great for sick people, but I’m more comfortable here with you. Any more phone calls?” “Not a one since I’ve been back. Charlie’s machine recorded one. The guy ranted on and on because I wasn’t here, and he was able to run a trace, so I think that’s the last of them.” “Good! One less thing to worry about.” “You are not to worry about anyone or anything, at least until you’re healed.” “I wouldn’t be much of a man if’n I didn’t worry some about my loved ones.” “Macho Man Manning. How did I ever get lucky enough to deserve you?” “Naw! It’s me that’s the lucky one. I’ve got the best woman west of the Great Lakes.” “Uh, huh, and you’re still sticking to that diet the doctor put you on.” “Who said anything about a diet?” He chuckled. “You know me too well.” “Is there anything you need before I go start dinner?” “Yeah, pass me the remote. I may as well watch some television.” She did. “Holler if you need anything.” “Will do.”

When she went back to check on him twenty minutes later, he was fast asleep, the remote still clutched in his hand. She pried it loose and laid it on the side table, then covered him with an afghan. Sleep was good. He’d heal faster if he didn’t get agitated. She smiled as she walked back to the kitchen. Yes, she was certainly glad to have him home. **** Roy’s story didn’t totally check out and his trial began two weeks later, Judge Landers presiding. Against her wishes, Lucas insisted on attending. Luke and Zakia picked them up on their way, saving her the hassle of driving through the city. Her eyesight just wasn’t equal to the fast-moving city traffic. Sam and Blake would meet them there. She wasn’t sure her son, Jack, would make it. He had a grueling schedule at University this year. And Michael, well, he might not want to come, him being a cop and all and his brother arrested. Dexter Malloy, the lawyer Roy hired, had wanted a deposit of ten thousand dollars, which she and Lucas had paid. Other than that, he was on his own. Charged with stalking, terrorizing, and kidnapping, the defense lawyer had his work cut out for him. The District Attorney, Matthew Fellowes, presented the prosecution’s case first. Officer Patrick DuShane took a seat on the witness stand. His testimony lasted for most of the morning as he related the case from the beginning, where it all started, in Calgary. He told of the threatening notes and messages Zakia had received. He suspected her landlord, the accused, Leroy Williams, at that point as some of the notes had been left inside the house, but after overseeing the changing of the door and window locks, the perpetrator still gained entrance. It both stymied and frustrated him in his investigation. When Zakia and the children disappeared, he feared the worst, until Constable Blake Northrup and Lucas Manning, Junior, had contacted him. That’s when he’d been informed of the kidnapping and put his resources to work. He obtained a warrant to search the Williams’s residence where they’d located an underground passage accessed through Mr. Williams’s garage. They’d found Zakia that same day, and Leroy Williams was arrested.

When questioned as to Roy’s escape and subsequent terror, DuShane had to admit that he wasn’t certain if Williams was involved or an innocent bystander. Although Leroy Williams was recaptured in the company of suspects involved with the murders of Sheriff James White and Deputy Larry Beech, and the attempted murder of Blake Northrup. Malloy began his cross-examination. “Detective DuShane, in your initial investigation, did the results point to Mr. Williams as the suspect?” “No.” “Mr. Williams did in fact lead a quiet, law abiding life. Correct?” “Yes, as far as his neighbors were concerned, Williams lived a quiet life.” “A quiet, law abiding life.” “We didn’t locate any criminal records under the name of Leroy Williams, but he....” “Had anyone witnessed my client harassing Mrs. Manning at any time? Entering her house? Leaving messages?” “No, no one had seen Williams leave messages or enter her house.” “Had his vehicle, a 1997 Dodge Ram, been spotted following her anywhere?” “No, I’m not aware of any reports involving his personal vehicle tailing her.” “So, your search warrant for Leroy Williams’s residence had no specific evidence with which to back it up?” Malloy asked. “Well, not tangible evidence per say. We had reason to believe he was involved.” “Third party hearsay.” “From a reputable source…a fellow RCMP officer, Constable Blake Northrup.” “Who just happens to be friends with Mrs. Manning’s husband?” “I object,” said the DA. “Overruled. Witness will answer the question.” “From what I understand, yes, they are friends, but….” “No further questions at this time.”

Malloy took his seat. He hadn’t seen fit to question DuShane about the underground passage or allow him to present information on Leroy’s previous criminal record as Roy Grayson. Winnie breathed her first sigh of relief. It seemed Roy had hired himself an excellent lawyer. Time would tell. Judge Landers called a two-hour break for lunch, and they filed out of the courtroom. **** They agreed on the 5th Avenue Grill. It was within walking distance of the court and served a lunchtime buffet, which meant they didn’t have to wait an hour for their food. Lucas immediately steered the conversation away from the trial in deference to Winnie. “Hey, Blake, how’s it goin’?” “I’ve had better days. How about you?” “Truthfully? I haven’t felt this good in years. The doctor fixed my ticker and gave me a new lease on life. One which my darlin’ wife reminds me of daily.” He chuckled. “She makes sure I eat right and go for regular walks. “My personal nurse makes sure I get enough exercise but as to meals, well, it’s a good thing I like to cook.” Blake winked at Sam. “Don’t worry, Blake. Everyone at this table knows I can’t cook,” said Sam. “Maybe not, but she sure knows how to clean,” said Lucas. “And she’s great with kids,” added Zakia. Sam’s face fell, and she focused on her plate of pasta. “Mmmmm, this is delicious. I don’t believe I’ve ever eaten here before.” “I don’t know what I would have done without her in Calgary.” “You would’ve managed. You had your parents if no one else. They always enjoy having the twins over.” “Yes, they do, but they also spoil them rotten. You don’t let them get away with nearly half what Mom and Dad do.” “They’re good kids. Pop some popcorn and plug in a movie and they’re good until bedtime.” “When do you return to work, Blake?” asked Luke. “I’m not sure. Doctor says eight to ten weeks but I’m thinking of taking a leave of absence.” “Oh, why’s that?” asked Lucas.

“I didn’t like getting shot. Sam and I both love horses and the ranch would benefit from our working it full-time.” “True enough.” “I think that’s a wonderful idea! Have you decided on a date for the wedding?” asked Winnie. “Not yet, but you’ll be one of the first to know,” said Blake. “Sam’s cast had to be redone so she’s looking at another four weeks before it comes off.” “Thank God the new prosthesis came in. At least I can fend for myself and help Blake around the house a bit more.” “You’ve been a big help, Sam. No problem there.” “Well, when the day does arrive, I’d be honored if you’d allow me to give the bride away,” said Lucas. Tears welled up in Sam’s eyes. “I was meaning to ask, but didn’t know how. Thank you.” Blake reached out his arm and wrapped it around her shoulders. “Luke, you up for best man?” “Sure enough, buddy.” “Zakia, will you be my Matron of Honor?” “Well, yeah. I kind of took that for granted.” Everyone laughed at that. “We’ll have two ring bearers,” said Blake. “Guess who?” Laughter erupted from their table again, earning a few disgruntled looks from customers at nearby tables. Such behavior was not appropriate for the 5the Avenue Grill, but Lucas didn’t care. He was here with his family, and they needed to relax after the harrowing testimony that morning…especially his Winnie. “What about a flower girl?” “Nope. Nobody I know has little girls,” said Sam. “We’ll make do with the twins.” “Sounds like you’re ready except for setting the date,” Zakia said. “And better health. We’re not going to rush it,” said Blake. “Oh! You’ll need a bridal shower!” said Winnie. “I’d be pleased to have one for you.” “Winnie, you are too kind, but, yes, thank you. That would be lovely. Zak, would you help me pick out a dress sometime?” “You know it, girlfriend.”

She smiled at Sam as she spoke, and Lucas couldn’t help but think how pretty Zakia was, especially now that she was pregnant again. “So, is it twins ag’in?” he asked. Zakia almost choked on her food, and Luke sputtered his water. He grinned at his father. “How did you know?” “Dang it all, boy! I wasn’t born yesterday.” “Didn’t think you were.” “Well?” “We don’t know yet. Our first ultrasound is next month, November twenty-first.” “Okay, then.” Lucas glanced at his watch. “If you want dessert, best grab it now. We have to head back soon.” “Lucas, nothing too rich,” warned Winnie. “Then you better come with me and help choose.” In the end, they loaded a plate with assorted squares to share, grabbed a refill of coffee, and returned to the table. The others came back with their choices, and soon it was time to leave. **** The walk back was a solemn one, everyone’s mind on the testimony ahead. Winnie was surprised to see Michael waiting on the courthouse steps. She rushed up to him, and he enveloped her in a warm, welcoming hug. “Hi, Mama. How are you holding up?” “As good as can be expected.” “Is Roy guilty of what they’re accusing him of?” “I’m afraid so, some of it anyway, but he has a good lawyer.” Lucas and the rest hung back out of earshot, allowing them privacy to speak to each other. “How is all this affecting your relationship with the Mannings?” “Lucas and I had a few disagreements at first, mostly because I felt guilty for what Roy had put them through, but everything’s fine now.” “So they’re treating you all right?” “The very best.” “Good. I worried about you and tried to get here sooner, but couldn’t get leave until today.”

“I’m so glad you’re here. Will you sit with us?” “On the prosecutor’s side?” “Yes.” “Shouldn’t we be sitting on the defense side to show our support?” “You can if it makes you feel better, but Lucas and I already had this discussion. Roy has caused enough trouble. We’re not willing to divide the family. We’ve helped him all we can, and he knows it. He knows I’m there for him, but I’m also there for the Mannings. I am a Manning. It’s a difficult situation, to be sure.” “Yes, I can see that. For now, I think I’ll sit behind Roy.” “That’s fine, dear. Do what you think is best. Will you stay with us while you’re in town?” “Where else would I get loving attention and home-cooked meals the caliber of yours?” He grinned. “Come on. I’ll walk in with you.” She turned and motioned for Lucas. The others had gone inside. “Hello, Michael. Glad you could make it,” he said as they shook hands in greeting. “Thanks, Lucas. Shall we go inside?” Winnie proudly walked between the two men as they entered the building, giving her son a quick hug as he seated her, and then took a seat across the aisle. “He’s okay with you sittin’ here?” “Not really, but he does understand.” “That’s good then.” Testimony that afternoon was from specialists in the field of forensics. DuShane had sent a crime scene unit into the underground tunnels to search out evidence linking Roy to the crime. They’d found a computer room directly under Zakia’a half of the duplex and toward the back corner. Several monitors displayed different rooms in the house, including her bedroom and bathroom. Recorded tapes proved that he’d watched Zakia from the day she’d moved in. Forensics analyzed samples of semen taken from the scene, which contained Roy’s DNA, adding the charge of voyeur to his list of crimes. They also discovered a secret door, which led to her half of the basement. Disguised as support for the electrical panel, a hidden button beneath the panel opened it from her side. This evidence

proved that he could easily come and go as he pleased, know where she was going and, approximately, when she’d return. Winnie hung her head in shame as the new evidence came to light. Never in her life had she heard of such mischief. And for it to be initiated by her son made it even more horrendous to contemplate. Thankfully, court adjourned for the day so she could escape.

Chapter Ten Not a word was said as they walked to their vehicles. Lucas couldn’t stand it. Before they reached the car, he stopped and turned to his wife. “Winnie, I hope you’re not blamin’ yourself. That was Roy’s devious mind at work. It had nothin’ to do with the way you raised him.” “How could he have done such a thing? Zakia, I am so sorry. I had no idea.” “That testimony was a shocker for sure, but none of us holds you responsible, Winnie. We love you.” “You are too kind, Zakia. You didn’t deserve what he put you through.” “None of us did. His actions affected all of us, not just me. I wonder what the judge and jury thought. Some of them seemed as shocked as I felt, but others, well, it’s hard to tell.” “It’ll be interesting to see what tomorrow brings,” said Sam. “I don’t think I want to hear any more. That’s not the boy I raised,” said Winnie, her voice breaking as tears threatened. “We don’t have to attend, luv, not if you don’t feel up to it.” “No, I don’t think we should, besides, I saw you clenching your fists in there. That’s not good for your blood pressure or your heart. I think we should sit the rest of this one out. I just can’t stand to hear any more. I’m sorry, but at this particular moment, I wished I’d never given birth to him.” “Here’s the car. Come on,” She sat in the backseat with Lucas, huddled close to his side, her face buried in his sports coat as she cried silent tears. No mother should ever have to undergo what she just had. What a perverted, sick man Roy had become. It was all he could do not to barrel across that courtroom, grab him by the scruff of the neck, and give him what for. He imagined it was even worse for his son. How Luke and Zakia had sat quietly through the whole thing was beyond him. And Sam! What a hoot that one was! She was so mad! Blake had to literally hang on to her to keep her from jumping the restraining rope and going after Roy herself. She was just a bouncing throughout the entire testimony. At one point, she’d hollered, “You bastard!” and the judge had threatened her with contempt of court.

She kept quiet after that, but he could tell how difficult it was for her to do so. Blake certainly had a firecracker in that one. Lucas had glanced at Michael a time or two and witnessed the fierce frowns etched in his forehead. Seemed like he wasn’t none too pleased with his big brother either. He’d felt sorry for him having to sit there and listen as the evidence against his brother piled up. As a cop, he’d probably seen and dealt with worse, but hearing that crap about your own family was even worse, made it personal, kinda like. “Dad, we’re here,” Luke said as they arrived at the Grayson spread. “You still coming in for tea?” he asked. “Sure thing.” He turned off the engine as Sam and Blake’s vehicle pulled in beside them, then another, which had to be Michael’s. Having grown up with Luke and Blake, he knew both men, and Luke introduced Michael to his wife and Sam. “I’m going in to put the kettle on,” said Winnie as she hurried to the door. “This has to be hard on her. On all of you for that matter,” Michael said as he watched her go. “That was pretty damning evidence.” “Yes it was, and your mama took it real hard,” said Lucas, his attention focused on the door she’d disappeared through. “We’ll give her a minute or two to collect herself, then go in.” “I heard about the cops that were murdered. Was that Roy’s doing?” “The Sheriff and his deputy were shot and killed during his escape, but we don’t know if the escape was planned for him or his cellmate. So far, nobody’s talkin’.” “And Blake, you were shot, too, as I recall.” “Yes, but I’m healing nicely.” “Good to hear it. Sam, if you don’t mind me asking, what happened to your arm?” “Which one?” “What?” Michael looked at the other arm and noticed the prosthesis. “Sorry about that. I never even noticed.” “That’s okay. You can always tell who’s a cop. Questions, questions, and more questions. Roy’s friends ran me off the road, and

I suffered concussion, temporary amnesia, and a busted arm. Minor compared to Blake and Lucas almost dying.” Michael’s attention riveted on Lucas. “What happened?” “Heart attack. Too much stress. Those guys targeted your mama, too. I was wound up tighter than a coiled lasso.” “Phew, you guys have really had a run of bad luck. I’d apologize for Roy but I don’t think that would put a dent in the restitution you all deserve. Zakia, glad to see you’re none the worse for it, and Luke.” “Thanks, Michael. We’re okay now but it was a hairy situation for a while.” “I can imagine. I see a lot in my line of work in the city, but this hits a little too close to home for my liking. I’ll stay and see it through until the end though. For Mama, if not for Roy. I’m thinking he’s got a good deal of time coming to him.” “I’m sure she’ll be glad of your company. We should go in. Need any help with your luggage?” asked Lucas. “No thanks. I travel light. I’ll grab my bag and join you inside.” Michael’s presence made all the difference. Winnie gushed and fussed over her middle son as if she hadn’t seen him in years when, in reality, he’d spent time with them during his summer vacation in June. “How long can you stay, Michael?” Winnie asked. “The department allowed me an open-ended leave of absence due to the circumstances, so I’m here for as long as you need me to be—or as long as you’re willing to put up with me.” Michael grinned. “Then you could be here for quite a while. We’ll have plenty of time to catch up.” “For sure. The best part is that I’ll be here for your Thanksgiving feast. There’s nothing quite like it anywhere else.” “You need to find yourself a wife, someone who knows how to cook, instead of eating out all the time. If I did that, I’d weigh two tons by now.” Winnie smoothed her hands over her full hips. “Now there ain’t nothin’ wrong with a few luscious curves in the right places,” Lucas said as his gaze traveled the area her hands had just outlined. She laughed self-consciously. “Yeah, but then you’re prejudiced in my favor.”

“Favor…mmm, love that word,” Lucas said. Everyone chuckled at his obvious innuendo. “Are we keeping you from something here?” asked Luke. “Nah! Just gotta let her know I love her, curves and all.” Winnie blushed like a schoolgirl as she turned toward the pantry. When she came back, she held a cookie jar in one hand and a precariously balanced a tray of squares and sweetbreads on the other. Michael jumped up to grab the tray and set it on the table. Mugs and coffee essentials were already set out. Winnie passed Luke the cookie jar, grabbed the pot to pour their coffee then joined them at the table. “How did this year’s round-up go?” asked Michael. Coffee sputtered everywhere. “What did I say?” he asked, looking confused. “Nothing, it’s just that, well, that’s when Roy was the most active,” said Luke. “Active! He used us to wrangle permission to tag along on Luke’s round-up taking photos and kidnapped Zakia,” said Winnie. “Oh! No one suspected him then?” “No. Not then, although the Calgary RCMP had him investigated.” Michael nodded his head. “As Leroy Williams. Yes, I heard that mentioned today. He looks entirely different since the surgery. It must’ve cost a bundle.” “Luke’s insurance paid for most of it.” “How’s that?” He turned toward Luke. “Even though he was the one to set the fire, it was an accident and the ranch’s insurance company settled quite a large amount on him. That’s how he purchased the house in Calgary.” “Real estate isn’t cheap. How much did he gouge you for?” “Seven hundred and fifty thousand,” said Luke. Michael whistled. “Hey, man! Can I go set fire to your barn?” Winnie bristled. “Michael! Don’t even joke about something like that. It’s horrid, the pain and disfigurement he endured.” “Sorry, Mama.” “You know,” said Blake, “I wonder if that’s when he flipped, for lack of a better word. Maybe the humiliation he suffered afterward caused a severe depression from which he never returned?” Michael glanced his way, a pensive expression lining his features. “You could have something there, Blake. His anger probably

built every time he had to look in a mirror. A man in a depression induced rage is capable of just about anything.” “Exactly!” “Maybe I should put a bug in his lawyer’s ear to have him tested?” Luke looked from one to the other. “Are you saying he’s insane?” “Well, golly gee! I wouldn’t find that hard to believe,” said Sam. “Sorry, Winnie.” “It would certainly explain a lot,” Zakia said. “I say go for it. The sooner this is over, the better.” “You wouldn’t mind him going free?” Michael asked. Zakia glanced at Winnie, then back to Michael. “I’d rather see him get the help he needs, if that’s the case.” Right at that precise moment Lucas fell in love with his daughter-in-law. He knew she was only doing it for Winnie, but it took plenty of guts to let a man walk after what she’d been through. “Are you sure about this?” asked Luke, his arm coming to rest on her shoulders. “Yes, I’m sure. Call him, Michael.” “Mama, do you have Malloy’s number?” “It should be on the receipt,” Lucas said, reaching for his wallet. “Receipt?” asked Michael. “Yes. He wanted a retainer, and Lucas and I put up the money,” said Winnie, her tone almost apologetic. “If he has to serve time, we have power of attorney to sell his house and get our money back.” “And if he doesn’t?” “If he doesn’t, he’ll need a place to live, and I don’t want him here. I’ll gladly let him have the money,” she said. “O…kay,” Michael drawled. “That’s a lot of money.” “Let’s just call it an investment in his future—if he still has one,” said Lucas. “Here’s the number.” He passed the slip of paper to Michael, and he went out on the back porch to make the call. The door opened again almost immediately. “Damned answering machines! Sorry, Mama! I left a brief message. Hope he gets it and calls back before court tomorrow. I left my cell and the house number. I hope that’s all right.”

“That’s fine, boy. Now sit and finish your coffee.” Talk around the table turned general after that as Michael regaled them with comical stories concerning his being a vice cop. “We had this one guy dress up as a woman complete with blonde wig and high heels. He’d pulled an armed robbery at a liquor store. When he got outside, he ran around the corner, ripped off the dress, threw down the wig, and kicked off the heels to run barefoot down the back alley. The video cameras captured it all. What the perp didn’t realize—that particular back alley was a drunkard’s paradise, broken bottles everywhere. He was bleeding profusely, unable to walk let alone run and screaming with pain, making it easy for us to locate him.” “Oh my God! That is so funny. Wish I had been there,” said Sam. “Knowing you, he never would have made it out the door,” Blake said. Sam giggled. “Always did enjoy a bit of excitement now and then.” “Well, I’ve had enough excitement to last me a lifetime. Shall we head home and check on Pete? Hopefully the boys haven’t worn him out,” Zakia said. “They love Pete. He’s teaching them how to whittle.” “Luke, they’re too young to use sharp knives,” she said, alarmed. “No, Zia. They’re old enough to learn how to handle a knife properly. That way they won’t get hurt.” “He’s right, Zakia, my girl. Around any ranch, a wrangler always has a sharp knife on him. You never know when it might come in handy. Luke’s been using a jackknife since he was four, or thereabouts.” “Thanks, Lucas, but I still think they’re too young.” “Make you a deal. If they’re not bleeding when we get home, they’re allowed to keep the knives.” “And if they are?” “We call an ambulance,” he said, smiling. “Not funny, Luke. Let’s go. Thanks for tea, Winnie. See you all later.” The room erupted with laughter as soon as they were out the door.

“That girl worries too much,” said Winnie. “Yep, just like someone else I know,” said Lucas, squeezing her hand. “We should go, too. It’s been a long day. I still tire too easy for my liking,” Blake said. “Join the club,” said Lucas. “At least you don’t have to survive on rabbit food. I’d rather have me a medium-rare T-bone any day.” “Oh! Blake’s grilling steaks for dinner tonight,” Sam said enthusiastically. Lucas groaned. “Rub it in, girlie. Rub it in.” “Sorry, Lucas, but I love it when he fires up the grill. Food tastes so much better.” “Get away with you before I invite myself for dinner,” he growled. Winnie laughed. “I’d only tag along to make sure you didn’t eat any.” “Spoil sport!” Lucas wrapped an arm around his wife, pulling her close. Michael’s phone rang. “Hello.” He nodded in answer to their silent questioning looks, then stood and walked into the other room, leaving them to wonder what the lawyer would do. They sat in near silence, only the ticking of the wall clock disturbing the sudden quiet. A triumphant grin marked his features when Michael reentered the kitchen. “Malloy’s going to request a meeting with Judge Larson and the DA before court tomorrow. Based on today’s testimony, he doesn’t see how they can refuse. He’s going to request a thirty day psychiatric evaluation.” Winnie broke down and cried, not quite the reaction expected. Sam and Blake nodded farewell and slipped quietly out the door. Lucas helped Winnie to her feet. “Help yourself to anything you need,” he said as he left Michael in the kitchen and walked Winnie to their bedroom. ****

“Oh, Lucas! I’m so confused. Earlier today, I disowned Roy, but what if he is sick? What if he needed help and I didn’t see it? Maybe I could have intervened and prevented all this from happening.” She clung to him, this man of hers, his body heat and strength somehow ebbing into her own body, warming her and making her stronger. He never failed to come through for her. “Don’t be beatin’ yerself up over this. Maybe he’s sick, and maybe he’s just plain ornery and evil-minded. We won’t know unless the judge sees fit to order an evaluation.” “I know, but even that seems like another way for him to escape justice for what he’s done. As much as I’d hate to see him behind bars for years to come, I’d hate to see him get away with it because of an insanity plea. Wouldn’t that only encourage him to keep doing unspeakable things?” “I reckon that if the judge allows it, he’ll have a plan worked out to reintroduce him to society after treatment.” “Do you really think so? Can a judge remand him for medical and psychiatric treatment?” “Yep, if’n there’s call for it. Now stop your worryin’ and rest for a spell. We both need it. It’s been a hell of a day.” “I need to start dinner.” “Dinner can be late this once.” His hand smoothed the hair back from her face, and he pulled up a corner of the sheet to dry her eyes. His lips brushed her forehead in a gentle caress, not quite a kiss, but the sensation gave her a fleeting sense of well-being. “But Michael?” “Michael is old enough to fend for himself if he gets hungry. He probably understands what you’re going through better than anybody.” “Because of his job?” “That, plus he’s Roy’s brother. He has to be feeling some of what you are.” “Well, it has been a trying day. A nap sounds good.” He tugged the blankets up around them and held her close, drifting into a sleep of relaxation and healing. ****

Lucas found Michael sitting on the back deck watching the last rays of the sun disappear behind the horizon. “Red sky at night, sailor’s delight. Looks as if we’ll have another nice day tomorrow,” said Lucas. “Yeah, looks like. How’s Mama?” “Tired, worried, but that’s to be expected.” “Yeah, I guess. You know, there for a while today, sitting in that courtroom, I wanted to wring his bloody neck for what he’s putting Mama through.” Lucas chuckled. “You’re not alone there. Take a number and stand in line.” Michael turned toward him, a wicked grin highlighting his strong bone structure and facial features. He was a good-looking son of a gun. Too bad Leah hadn’t hooked up with someone like Michael. Strong, caring, protective. She’d still be miles away, but at least he’d know she was all right. “You know, there’s an openin’ in the Fort McLeod detachment if’n you’re interested.” “Could be. Is it Blake’s job?” Lucas nodded. “Seems like no one wants to be the boss. They had to bring down a temp from Edmonton, or so I heard.” “It’ll be years before I could achieve top position in Vancouver. Too many ahead of me not anywhere close to retirement age. I might just check into the possibility while I’m here. Don’t tell Mama though. Wouldn’t want to get her hopes up.” “Mum’s the word.” They both chuckled. “You’d be welcome to stay on here.” “Thanks, Lucas, but I wouldn’t want to impose. You two need your privacy.” He smiled. “For that matter, so do I.” Lucas guffawed and slapped his knee. “Sure’n you don’t have some Manning in ya?” “Don’t have to be a Manning to appreciate a woman’s charms.” “True enough, boy. True enough.” “Mama cooking dinner?” “Yep, that’s her therapy—cooking. She’s at her best in the kitchen…er…well…mostly.” He grinned.

“Too much information, but I’m glad she’s found happiness with you. She was alone too long.” “Yep, she’s a woman who needs someone to fuss over, and I’m more’n happy to oblige. Of course, I do my own share of fussin’ and coddlin’ sure enough.” “Which is as it should be.” Lucas sensed the boy had something on his mind, so he sat, quietly rocking in the old oak rocker as he waited for him to speak. “Do you mind if I borrow a horse and go for a ride after dinner?” “Not at all. As you know, Lightnin’ is still here. You always were fond of that devil.” “Yep, and a wild ride on that stallion might just clear my head.” “Uh, huh, would mine. You’re welcome to take your pick though. Wish I could ride out with ya.” “You’re not allowed to ride?” “Not for two more weeks. At least I can drive ag’in startin’ next week.” “Bummer.” “Yeah, I’d chance it but I don’t want to undo what the doctor fixed and end up back in the hospital. And besides, your mother worries too much.” “Don’t I know it. Why didn’t she call me, Lucas? I had to hear the news on the radio for God’s sake. I almost ditched the cruiser and had to explain to my partner why I almost got us killed.” “Well, your mother knows how busy you are, and there wasn’t much you could’ve done, but yeah, she should’ve told you what was goin’ on. Does Jack know?” “Yeah, I called him when I found out. He’s got a heavy exam schedule or he’d be here, too.” “Family needs to stick together.” “Even for low-life like Roy?” “Even then. Makes you the better man.” “Or a foolish one. I really hope they find him certifiably insane. Otherwise, I have to admit that he’s just plain evil. Thinking of him right now is enough to make my blood boil. I wish Mama hadn’t heard all that this afternoon.”

“Well, I’m a thinkin’ she had to hear it to believe it. Maybe now she won’t worry so much.” “Doubt it. She’ll still worry, but his fate won’t cost her as much anxiety as if she hadn’t been aware.” “True.” The screen door opened and out walked Winnie, a tray of iced tea in her hands. “Thought you two might be a little parched after all that jawing.” She smiled as she handed them each a glass and took a seat. Lucas exchanged a look with Michael, wondering if she’d overheard their conversation. “We were talking about Lightning. I think I’ll take him for a ride after dinner.” “Speakin’ of dinner…what are we havin’?” “Ham and potato scallop. The ham just needs reheating, but the scallop will be a while yet. Sorry dinner’s so late.” “No need to apologize, Mama. Not after all the home-baked goodies I stuffed myself with this afternoon,” Michael said, patting his stomach. “It sure is nice to be home.” “I love having you here.” “The evenin’s are cooler every day. Won’t be long now until we have snow.” “Is the Artic Cat still trail worthy, Lucas?” “Yep, but it could do with an oil change before the snow flies.” “I’ll tend to that this weekend and put the snow blower on the tractor.” “Thanks, Michael. Hadn’t thought that far ahead yet, but doc won’t let me do anythin’ anyway.” One more thing to add to the list of what not to do. “At least I’ll be able to drive it by the time we have snow.” Michael grinned. “Take pleasure in the little things, eh, Lucas?” “Harrumph! I’m surprised doc allows me to dress myself.” “Now, Lucas, don’t be grumping and grousing. Be thankful you’re still alive,” Winnie said. “Yeah, I suppose, but I’m not used to sittin’ around so much. It tires me out.”

“I can let you do the dishes tonight. Wouldn’t want you to tire out too early.” Lucas grinned. “Even that is preferable to doin’ nothin’. Although I have enjoyed the extra pamperin’ I’ve been gittin’.” “As well you should! I barely have time to cook or clean anymore for all that pampering.” “A little dust never hurt anyone.” “Yeah, Mama. I hate to admit it, but your place is immaculate compared to my digs. Was going to clean before I left, but decided to pack and get going. I’ll need to do laundry soon, though. Could only find two clean pair of jeans.” “Put your things in the laundry room and I’ll see to it,” said Winnie. “Nope, you’ve enough on your hands. I didn’t come home to make more work for you. Lucas, is there anything else that needs doing before winter?” “Joe, our foreman, sees to the barn and stock, but we do need to get a fresh supply of wood in for the stove and furnace. You reckon you’re still good with a power saw?” “It’s been a few years, but yeah, I think I can handle it. Where are you cutting this year?” “Haven’t rightfully decided yet. Maybe those woods borderin’ the south pasture. The trees have grown so much, it’s gotten pretty dense over there. If we cut away the biggest hardwood, the animals would have more shade next summer.” “So, you’re not clear cutting?” “Nope. Got enough pasture and farmland for now. Gotta think of the years to come. Let the smaller trees grow.” “Good. Once I get the tractor and snowmobile geared up, I’ll start in on the wood. Have to keep in shape or I’ll gain too much weight eating Mama’s cooking.” “I can keep you company while you’re workin’ at least,” said Lucas. “Don’t want you runnin’ a power saw out there alone.” “I’ll be fine.” “Have a heart, man. I’ve got to get outta the house now and then.” Michael grinned. “In that case, I’ll be glad of the company.”

“Maybe I’ll tag along, too. I can still pile wood and keep an eye on Lucas at the same time. He’d try to do more than supervise and I know it.” “Nope, you’re wrong this time, Luv. I’m not doin’ anythin’ that would land me back in the hospital.” “Glad to hear it. I better go in and check on dinner and get your coffee brewing.” “Okay. We’ll be in shortly.” She gathered up the empty glasses and went back in the house. “Winnie’s in better spirits now that you’re here, Michael. I think you were just the tonic she needed.” “She looks tired.” “Of course she’s tired. We’ve been through a lot these past weeks.” “I’m glad she had you looking out for her.” “Wouldn’t have it any other way. Let’s go in.” “You go. I’m going to take a short walk first.” “See you later then.” Lucas rose and entered the house, leaving Michael to himself. Something was troubling that boy and instinct told him it wasn’t family oriented.

Chapter Eleven Lucas went to lie down after dinner for some much-needed rest and, although tempted to join him, Winnie had plenty of work to catch up on. She’d finished cleaning and dusting the downstairs rooms and was baking up a few treats by the time Michael returned from his ride. “Mmmm, something sure smells good in here,” he said. “That’s because you smell your favorite pumpkin chocolate chip cookies.” “I’d give you a hug, but I smell like the barn. Decided to muck out a few stalls after I brushed Lightning down. Figured a little physical exercise would help me sleep.” “You haven’t been sleeping? Is it because of this mess with Roy?” “Partly.” She sent a curious look his way as she rolled out pastry for lemon meringue pie. “Anything you need to talk about?” “Not just yet. Mostly a pile of thinking to do.” She grinned. “Does it involve a woman?” “Not this time.” He grinned back. “I haven’t been involved with anyone special, if that’s what you’re asking.” “A mother can always hope.” “No amount of hoping will find me a woman who’s as loving and caring as you. Besides, most of the ones I know can’t even cook.” “Then why date them?” “Ah, well, they have other assets.” She acted suitably shocked, which garnered a bout of laughter. “I’m headed for the shower, but I’ll return shortly for some of those cookies.” “Tea?” “Sure. Be right back.” The pie shell was in the oven, meringue whipped into soft peaks and in the fridge, and Winnie was at the stove cooking up her lemon filling when Lucas wandered in. “Hi. What cha cookin’?” He wrapped his arms around her from behind and nibbled on her ear.

She giggled, when what she really wanted to do was turn into his embrace, but she had to keep stirring the filling. “Lemon pie.” “My favorite. When will it be ready?” “Not for a while yet, but the cookies are in the jar. Could you put the kettle on for tea? Michael should be down soon.” “Sure thing.” He moved to do her bidding, filled the kettle and plugged it in. “It’s chilly in here tonight.” She gave him a strange look. “Lucas, I’ve been baking. It’s not cold in here. Are you running a fever?” “Nah! Probably chilled from just crawling out of a nice warm bed. I’ll go grab a sweater.” She’d taken the pot off the burner and stirred in a dollop of butter when she heard a thud at the front of the house. “Mama! Come quick!” She ran to the front of the house to see Michael kneeling beside her husband. “Lucas!” she cried. “He passed out. His pulse is okay, but he’s burning up. Should I call the ambulance?” “Yes, Michael. Please do.” Lucas started to come around. His eyes fluttered open. “Hey! What am I doin’ on the floor?” “You passed out. Do you hurt anywhere?” Winnie asked. “Nah, but I am cold.” “You have a fever. Maybe we should take you to the hospital,” she said. “Nope. Give me a couple aspirin and tuck me back into bed. I’ll be right as rain come mornin’.” “Lucas, you don’t pass out because of a chill. Something’s wrong. You’re going to the hospital,” she insisted. “Listen to her, Lucas. She’ll only worry herself sick all night if you don’t. Want a hand up?” “Sure.” Lucas stood and promptly staggered backwards. Michael grabbed hold of him and supported his weight as he led him to a chair. “May as well fetch my good boots. I’m not walking in there in my slippers. And get me a sweater.” ****

Michael drove, and Winnie used his cell phone to call ahead. Because of Lucas’s recent surgery, they were calling in Dr. Walker. “Harrumph! Makin’ them call in a specialist to treat a man who has the flu,” said Lucas. “It’s a precautionary measure on their part, dear,” Winnie informed him. “I didn’t ask for him.” Michael pulled up to the emergency entrance and helped her guide Lucas inside, then left to park the truck. The fact that Lucas accepted the help proved he was weaker than he was letting on, and that worried her. The triage nurse produced a wheelchair, recorded his vitals, and took him straight through to acute care. Winnie helped him change into a johnny shirt, and he laid back on the stretcher, exhausted, his breath coming in short gasps. She was relieved when the nurse appeared and hooked him up with a nasal cannula, providing oxygen. His breathing evened out, and he rested while waiting for the doctor. Michael came in and gave her a much-needed hug. “You okay?” “Yes, I think so. He was recovering so well. I don’t understand what’s happened to set him back.” “Hard to say. His doctor should be here soon. We’ll know more then.” “It’s the waiting, the not knowing, that drives me crazy.” “I know. Just hang in there.” He pulled up a chair and sat beside her, prepared for a long wait, but the doctor surprised them when he showed up a scant ten minutes later. “Good evening, Mrs. Manning. What has our patient been up to?” “Nothing much. He’s been following your instructions to the letter, except for that darned sweet tooth of his.” “A few sweets shouldn’t hurt as long as they’re not too many or too rich.” She shook her head. “They’re not. I make them myself.” “Good. So tell me, what happened tonight?” “He seemed fine at dinner, went for a nap afterwards, and woke up chilled. He went to get a sweater and Michael, my son here, found him passed out in the hallway and burning up with fever.” “How long was he unconscious?”

“Only a few minutes, five maybe.” “Did he take anything for the fever?” “No, we came straight here.” “Good. I’ll have the nurse bring him some aspirin. I’m also going to order blood work and an ECG.” Dr. Walker stepped over to the bed. “Mr. Manning, Lucas, can you hear me?” His eyes opened. “Hey, doc. I missed ya.” “Did you now? Okay if I have a listen to your heart?” “My heart’s fine. Told Winnie I had the flu, but she insisted on me comin’ here.” “Smart woman. Any fever after major surgery needs to be checked out.” He placed his stethoscope to his ears, pulled the johnny shirt down and listened. Next, he removed the bandage and checked the incision on his chest. “Everything looks fine. How’s the leg?” “That funny sock feels tighter today.” Dr. Walker moved to the foot of the bed and removed the elasticized stocking Lucas had to wear until the incision healed. He removed that bandage as well. “Ahhh! I think I’ve found your problem, or at least part of it. The area near the bottom of the incision is red and swollen. It may be infected. Has it been paining at all?” “Nope.” “That’s good. I’m going to admit you and run some tests. You’re hypotensive, meaning your blood pressure is too low. This could be due to an infection, or I may need to change the dosage of your medications. I’ll have the blood, urine, X-rays, and an ECG done tonight and should know more when the results come back. In the meantime, I’ll have the nurse set you up with an IV. Through that, we can administer an antibiotic that will start you on the road to recovery. Once the tests are run, you’ll be moved to a private room in the ICU where the nurses can monitor you overnight. Any questions?” “How long you keepin’ me this time?” “That would depend on the test results. If there’s nothing else, I’ll be back to check on you in the morning.” “Thank you, Dr. Walker,” said Winnie. “I’m glad you were able to get here on such short notice.” He laughed. “Some days, I feel like I live here. See you in the morning.” She turned to her son. “You go on home, Michael. I’ll stay here.”

Lucas was sleeping, but she stayed at his bedside, holding his hand. “We never did have that tea. Care to join me for a cup before I leave?” asked Michael. “Could you bring it back here? I don’t want to leave him alone.” “Sure, be right back. Is there anything else you need?” “No, I’m fine.” Michael left, and she leaned back in her chair to rest her head and close her eyes for a few minutes. Why did her life seem to be falling apart lately? Everything had been going so good this summer. First Zakia, then Roy and now Lucas. People always say bad luck happens in threes, so this had better be the end of it. She didn’t know how much more worry and stress she could take. She dozed fitfully but awoke when Michael returned. The nurse came to draw some blood and produced a urinal for Lucas, needing a sample for testing. An orderly showed up and took him to X-ray, and Michael kept her company. He’d brought sandwiches and snacks with the tea, and she found she was hungry. “Thanks, Michael. I needed that.” “You needed to fortify your system with something to keep up your strength. It’s been a rough day all around.” “Are you going to court in the morning?” “Yes, I’m curious to hear what the judge decides.” “Will you stop by and let me know what happens?” “Of course, but I’ll stop by the house first in case you’re there. Did you want me to call Luke?” “Maybe you should. Tell him we may need a ride home tomorrow.” “Won’t he be in court, too?” “Right. Oh well, if we need a ride, Joe will come pick us up. Don’t bother Luke. It’s almost midnight. They’re probably in bed already.” “Are you sure?” “Yes, don’t worry about us. I can always call a cab if I have to.” “Okay. I’ll fill Luke in when I reach the courthouse in the morning, and I’ll see you after court lets out.”

The orderly wheeled Lucas back in, and Michael said his goodbyes and left. “How are you feeling?” she asked once the orderly had gone. “Better, not so dizzy. Sorry for passin’ out and scarin’ ya, luv.” “That’s all right, just don’t do it again.” She smiled to take the sting out of her words and he smiled back, his blue eyes twinkling with life again. “You’re looking much better, not so pale.” The curtain parted and in walked Michael, carrying a pillow and two warm flannel blankets. “Here, I thought you might need these.” He passed her the pillow and a blanket then spread the other one over Lucas. “Figured you’d need more than a cotton sheet.” “How thoughtful! Thank you, dear.” “Thanks, Michael,” said Lucus. “No problem. See you guys tomorrow. Take care, both of you.” “We’ll do our best,” Winnie said. “That’s quite a boy you’ve got there,” Lucas said after Michael left. “Yes, he’s always been the caring and protective one. It’s no wonder he ended up in law enforcement.” She stood to wrap the blanket around her shoulders then sat back down. “I feel warmer already.” “Me, too.” A technician entered with the ECG machine, hooked Lucas up, and turned it on. She left as soon as the test finished and the orderly came back to take Lucas to his room. It had taken over an hour by the time all the tests were completed, and they moved him to a room. Winnie was glad. Emergency was always so busy and noisy, and she wanted Lucas to be able to rest. The nurse in ICU hooked him up to an automatic blood pressure machine and a couple other monitors. She also elevated the foot of his bed. “How’s a man supposed to sleep with his feet stuck up in the air?” he questioned. “It’s necessary to reduce the swelling in your leg. Doctor’s orders.” “Harrumph!”

“Would you like a light snack before you bed down for the night?” “Buttered toast and a glass of water, if’n you don’t mind. And jam. Don’t forget to bring me a couple packets of strawberry jam.” “Be right back.” “You and your sweet tooth,” Winnie said. “A man’s got to have some nourishment.” The nurse brought in his lunch, setting it on the tray, and positioning it over the bed. She raised the head of it to a sitting position, and Winnie laughed. “Better eat quick. You look like a squashed sardine.” “Feel like one, too.” He grinned and picked up his toast, slathering it with jam as the nurse left. “That hit the spot. Could you lower the bed for me, luv?” “Of course.” She lowered the head of his bed, and he laid back. “Come here, woman.” She went to his side, and he grabbed her hand, pulling her forward for a good night kiss. “Want to crawl in here with me?” She looked askance at the bed. “No, I don’t think it would hold both of us, and besides, I’d end up tangled in all those cords.” “You didn’t have to stay, you know.” “Yes, I did. Wouldn’t want to be anywhere else. Get some sleep.” “Good night, luv,” he said, his eyelids already drifting closed. “Good night, Lucas.” She pulled a small chair in front of the big armchair to rest her feet on, put the pillow behind her head, and covered herself with the flannel blanket. As comfortable as she could be, she allowed the day’s events to drift away, thinking only of Lucas and that scorching kiss. He might be sick, but the man could still push her buttons with only a kiss. With that thought uppermost in her mind, she fell asleep, still smiling. **** “Good morning, Lucas. How’s my patient this morning?” asked Dr. Walker as he breezed into the room. “Feelin’ much better. Did you find out what caused this yet?”

“Yes, your blood work shows infection, so I’m going to clean out the incision on your leg and keep you on the antibiotic. The good news is, your heart is fine, but I’ll need to adjust the dosage of your heart medications as they seem to be the culprit in regard to your blood pressure.” “Can I go home then?” “Not today. Once I change your medication, I want you monitored for at least forty-eight hours. Your blood pressure has slowly risen during the night, but not high enough for me to release you. Any sudden movement or stress could have you keeling over again. The next time might be with more disastrous results.” “Stress! Try sleepin’ with your feet up in the air and nurses comin’ and goin’ all night to check my temp and squeeze the daylights out of my arm with that blood pressure cuff,” he groused. “That’s stress.” “Well, it is necessary if we’re to do our jobs properly. You’ll be moved to an operating theatre shortly and I’ll get that leg seen to. No anesthetic this time, just local freezing. Nothing to eat or drink until after the procedure. Any questions?” “Can we bring a cot back in for Winnie? She refuses to leave,” he said with a loving glance at his wife. “I think that can be arranged. See you shortly.” **** An orderly wheeled in a stretcher, transferred Lucas onto it, and left. Winnie made use of the time to freshen up and go to the cafeteria for breakfast. She glanced at the clock on the wall to see that it was only ten past eight and her thoughts transferred to her son, Roy. Would the judge consider sending him for psychiatric testing? Was it even feasible? According to Michael, Roy’s lawyer seemed to think so. Winnie breathed a heavy sigh and heaved her tired, aching body out of the chair. She gathered up her breakfast dishes and returned the tray, then ordered another cup of coffee to take back to the room. Lucas hadn’t returned, and the bed looked so inviting. She set her coffee aside and lay down for a few minutes. Lucas’s laughter woke her some time later. “Well, you’re certainly in good spirits.” She smiled as she crawled off the bed. “How did it go?” “Fine, I guess. Took long enough.”

Housekeeping came in to remake the bed, and Winnie stood off to one side as the orderly switched Lucas from the stretcher, rearranged the IV stand, and moved the stretcher into the corner. “Doc said to leave this here for you, Mrs. Manning. I’ll send housekeeping in to remake the cot for you,” he said. “Thank you.” “If you need anything else, ring for the nurse. Have a great day,” he said as he strode into the corridor. “Did you enjoy your snooze?” asked Lucas. “Yes, I did, but I can’t believe I slept for two hours.” “Must’a needed it, Luv. That chair you slept on probably wasn’t all that comfortable. You should’ve gone home with Michael.” “The chair wasn’t so bad. It’s the late night and early morning that got to me. That little nap did me the world of good.” The nurse came in, checked his vitals, and made sure the monitor was hooked up and turned on. “I’m going to order some breakfast for you, Mr. Manning. Any preferences?” “Yeah, can my wife cook it?” The nurse laughed. “No, I’m afraid not.” “Then surprise me. Actually, if it’s edible, that in itself would be a surprise.” His eyes twinkled merrily. The nurse giggled. “Will do. Coffee or tea?” “Coffee, and is there some place handy for my wife to warm hers?” “Sure, follow me.” Winnie picked up her cup and followed the nurse down the hall to a miniscule kitchen complete with microwave. “Here we are. Help yourself to anything you think your husband may want.” “Thank you,” Winnie said as the nurse left her there. She rummaged through the cupboards and fridge, where she found packets of cheese, butter, crackers, jam, peanut butter, arrowroots, and lemonade. If he didn’t like breakfast, at least he wouldn’t starve. Loading it all on a tray, she went back to the room and set it down in front of Lucas. His eyes lit up when he saw all the goodies. She pulled a chair up to the bed, grabbed her coffee, and sat down.

“Thanks, luv. I’m starvin’ so bad, my stomach feels hollow.” He took a hefty swallow of lemonade then opened the crackers and cheese. “Do you want some of this?’ “No, I went to the cafeteria when they took you away. I’m fine.” “But that was hours ago. Here, have a cookie with your coffee.” He passed her a package of the arrowroots, and she munched one down. “Mmmm, these are good.” “Not as good as what you make, but they’ll do.” Breakfast arrived, whole-wheat toast, jam, boiled egg, orange juice, and coffee. He ate it all with gusto. “That was darned good for hospital fare,” he said. “So I noticed,” she said, smiling. “Well, I was starvin’.” “Uh, huh.” “Stop lookin’ so smug, woman. It’s almost noon, and they wouldn’t let me eat earlier.” “I know. It’s just so nice to see you feeling better.” “Yep! Would be even nicer if doc would sign me outta here.” “Patience, honey. Would you like the TV hooked up?” “Nope, I prefer watchin’ you.” The heat of a blush rose into her cheeks. Imagine, blushing at her age. “Come on over here so I can reach you,” he said. She stood and walked the short distance to perch on the edge of his bed. “That’s better,” he said as he reached for her hand. “I hate knowin’ you’re worryin’ about me. Would it do any good if I told you to stop?” “When you love someone as much as I do you, a person can’t help but worry. If it were me in that bed, you’d worry, too.” “Darned tootin’ I would.” He smiled mischievously. “Where else would I get such a competent cook so cheap?” She laughed. “My cooking isn’t all you’re interested in, or you wouldn’t have married me.” “Darn! She found me out.” He laughed, then sobered up and in a serious voice said, “I adore you. You know that. And if I wasn’t stuck in this bed, I’d show you how much.”

“Promises, promises.” “How about a little get-well kiss to tide me over?” He tugged at her hand until she leaned forward, and he wrapped her in his arms, holding her close to his heart. When she looked up at him, their lips brushed, the tingle of that small contact going straight through her. Their next kiss was even better, sizzling hot in its intensity. She was half-lying on top of him, supporting her weight on her elbow so as not to put any pressure on his chest. She gave back as good as she got, allowing her tongue to dance with his as the fire inside raged hotter. So intense was the kiss that it took a moment to register the fact that he’d fevered up again. She broke away, reaching a hand up to feel his forehead. “Lucas, you’re burning up again. I need to call the nurse.” “Nah! I’m just hot for you.” He lay back on the bed, and she could tell he was weak and exhausted. She rang for the nurse anyway. His temperature registered one hundred and three, and his blood pressure had dropped again. The nurse left to consult Dr. Walker. “What’s this about your pressure dropping again?” he asked as he walked in. “I’m going to have to change your meds entirely and run more blood work. The fever is to be expected with the infection running rampant through your body, but I’ll up the dosage a little. You need to relax and not get worked up about anything. Understand?” Lucas squirmed in the bed. “A man can’t even kiss his own wife!” “Ahhh! So that’s what brought this on. It’s a wonder your pressure didn’t go up instead of down.” He chuckled. “I’ll be back to check on you in a couple of hours. Until then, behave yourself and get some rest.” “May as well. Can’t do anythin’ else,” he groused. The doctor was still chuckling when he left the room.

Chapter Twelve Lucas and Winnie were resting, waiting for lunch, and talking quietly as they lay in their beds, when a triumphant Michael arrived. “The judge issued a thirty day evaluation,” he said. “That’s fantastic!” Winnie said as she sat up. “How did Roy take the news?” “He seemed okay with it. His lawyer would’ve run it by him before talking to the judge.” Michael walked over to give her a hug. “Well, that’s all right, then.” “How are you doing, Lucas?” he asked. “Fine. Picked up an infection in the leg. Doc cleaned it out and has me on antibiotics. Hopin’ to go home tomorrow.” “Good. Leah called last night. We talked for quite a while. I haven’t seen her since your wedding. Strange, considering we both live in Vancouver, but it’s a big city, and I’m usually either sleeping or working.” “I’m sorry I missed her call. How is she?” Lucas asked. “She seemed fine—worried about you, but I filled her in and she seemed okay. Said to send you and Mama her love.” “Too bad she hadn’t seen fit to send a phone number,” said Lucas. “She certainly keeps to herself since she moved out there.” “You don’t have her number? That’s strange.” “Tell me about it. At least she calls so I know she’s still livin’.” “I could probably get it for you.” “Nope. If she wanted me to have it, she’d give it to me herself.” “All right, I see your point, but if you ever need to get a message to her, let me know.” “Thanks, Michael.” “Now that the trial has been postponed, will you be going back to Vancouver or staying for a while?” asked Winnie. “If it’s okay, I’d like to stay on for a while, help get stuff ready for winter.” “Oh, good!” she said, her face wreathed in a smile.

“Appreciate that,” Lucas said. “Sure can use the help this year.” “And I can use the break, so I’m staying.” Lucas’s lunch arrived. “Mind if I take Mama for lunch in the cafeteria? We won’t be long.” “Go ahead. See you when you get back.” She gave him a quick hug and a chaste kiss on the forehead, then left. Lucas finished eating and pushed the table tray away. He hated lying around in bed. He’d much rather be up and about doing something. Too much time to think this way. For Winnie’s sake, he was glad the judge had ordered the evaluation, but he’d rather see him behind bars for the terror and trouble he’d caused. Of course, the tests could prove that he was capable to stand trial. In that case, all they’d done was buy him a little time, which the lawyer could use to prepare a better defense. He felt himself tensing up and forced himself to relax, clear his mind of everything except his lovely wife. That kiss sure was something! Who’d a thought he’d get so turned on while in such intense pain? He chuckled to himself. That woman had had him wrapped around her little finger ever since she’d laid her second husband to rest. It had taken him a long while to convince her that she loved him, too. He’d met her through his first wife while Winnie was still married to Roy’s father. The two women had been best friends. It had been a comforting gesture on his part to pull her close for a hug when he witnessed her tears. His own wife had been long gone by then, but he remembered the feeling of abandonment, the hurt and anger of a loved one leaving them behind. He allowed her time to mourn, but in the meantime, he’d made himself indispensable around her ranch, fixing this and painting that. When there was nothing that needed doing, he dropped in for coffee and sat with her a spell. They become firm friends, and when he felt the time was right, began to court her. They’d gone to dinner and the occasional movie, but he loved to take her dancing, to hold her in his arms as they swayed to the music. It was on one of those nights that she became aware of the effect she had on his libido. She’d tried to pull away, but he wouldn’t

let her. Instead, they’d gone for a walk in the town gardens, and he had asked her to marry him. She’d refused, but he was nothing if not persistent. He tried to prove how much he loved her and wanted her in his life permanently. Nothing worked until he finally got up the nerve to say those three little words…I love you. They’d married the following weekend and had been together ever since. He hadn’t regretted a moment of that time. They were meant to be together and that was that. He lay back thinking over all the good times they’d shared, and dozed off with a smile upon his face, one hand beneath the blanket, rubbing his aching cock. **** Winnie and Michael returned to find Lucas sound asleep, so they strolled the corridors until they came to a lounge area where they could sit and talk. “How are you really doing, Mama? With everything that’s been going on, you must be exhausted.” “I am tired,” she admitted, “But that’s to be expected, I guess.” “Want me to go home so you can lie down and rest?’ “No, dear, I appreciate the company, especially when Lucas is sleeping, as he is now.” “Then I’ll stay and visit with you for a while.” “Michael, is Roy’s trial the only reason you came home?” “Not really, but we don’t need to go into that. It’ll keep.” “If you need to talk, I’m always here for you.” She placed a comforting hand on his arm, and he covered it with his own. “I know that, Mama, but you’ve enough on your plate right now.” “Is it that bad? You’ve got me worried now?” She watched his face as he spoke, concerned as to the true nature of his extended leave from a job he’d always enjoyed. “No, not bad, just different. There’s no need to worry. I have a few things to figure out, is all.” “Is city life getting to you? You can always come home, you know.” Unable to quell the anticipation of having him near, her heart lifted.

“I’m not cut out to be a rancher, Mama, and I love living in Vancouver, but these past few months, well, I’m not sure how to explain it—restless maybe.” “Then a change of scene should serve you well.” “That’s what I’m hoping. With Lucas laid up, you two can sure use the extra help.” “Yes, I’m so afraid he’ll overdo.” “I don’t think he’ll push himself too hard, especially since landing back in here.” “You’re probably right. Shall we walk back?” Michael nodded and took her hand to help her to her feet. She was really feeling her age these days. **** Luke was visiting his father when they arrived in the room. “Hi, Luke. Thanks for coming. I’m sorry I didn’t reach you last night, but it was late.” “That’s all right, Winnie. Michael filled me in this morning.” “How’s it going, Luke?” Michael asked. “Where’s the family?” Luke grinned. “Managed to get away without them today. We can’t have the twins jumping all over Grandpa in his weakened condition.” “Weak, my ass! It’ll be a cold day in hell when I can’t handle those two.” “Is it cold in here or is it just me?” Winnie asked. Everyone laughed. “All right. I’ll admit to being a mite sore, but they’re good boys. You could’ve brought them to see me.” “Dad, as much as I love having them with me, a man does need some down time, if for no other reason than to be able to think coherently.” “Yeah, I remember a time or two like that when you were younger. A right mischievous little rascal you were. There was that time when you were seven or so that you thought you’d learn bullridin’ and climbed into the bull pasture…and you were wearin’ red, for God’s sake. I saw that bull pawing up dirt in warning and I ran, hell-bent for leather and leaped over that fence post like it was nothin’. Baron charged you like a locomotive, even though bulls are red-green color blind, or so they say. I didn’t believe it that day, for

sure. If’n I’d been two seconds later reactin’, we would’ve been nothin’ more than field fodder for that ornery old bull.” “Wasn’t he Old Red’s sire?” asked Luke. “Yep, sure enough was. Called his bull calf that name because of your red shirt.” “Really? I thought it was because he’s a Red Angus.” “That, too, but mostly because of your shirt. Old Red’s mama birthed him that same day.” Winnie laughed. “Funny how I’ve never heard that one before.” “I remember being chased by that bull. Didn’t want to ride him anymore after seeing how big he was up close and personal.” “I should’a tanned your hide for scarin’ me half to death, but I rejoiced in saving you instead.” His terror that day had been indescribable. Luke had been so tiny and that ornery old bull was huge—had to have weighed two thousand pounds at least. The remembrance still brought cold chills and the odd nightmare. “I thought you were going to break me in two, you hugged me so tight.” “Believe me, I didn’t let you out of my sight for days afterward.” Luke chuckled. “Guess I knew how to get your attention.” “You always had more’n your share, boy. Nope, you grew too big for your britches and figured you could do everythin’ the wranglers did. Our old bull sure enough taught you a lesson that day.” “No doubt. So, how long are they keeping you this time?” Luke asked. “Dr. Walker said he might be able to go home tomorrow,” Winnie answered, seeing that Lucas was tiring out. “Might?” “Yes, he cleaned the infected area on Lucas’s leg and changed his heart medications. The ones he’s been on have brought his blood pressure too low. If he stabilizes by morning, he could be allowed to go home.” “If not, I’ll bring the boys in to see you tomorrow. Need anything before I go?” “Coffee would be nice.” “I can make instant in that little kitchen down the hall,” Winnie said.

“That’ll do in a pinch, but I need the real stuff.” He smiled tiredly at Winnie. “What you need right now is rest. I’ll get you a coffee when you wake up.” “Okay, Luv. Thanks anyway, Luke, my boy. See you tomorrow.” “See you, Dad.” “I may as well shove off, too. Maybe Mama will take her own advice and have a nap this afternoon.” She smiled his way. “I may just do that. Looking after this cranky, old curmudgeon has me tuckered out.” “Hey! Easy on the old! I haven’t even reached fifty yet.” The boys laughed as they said goodbye, then walked out together. “I’m going to grab a glass of that lemonade if there’s any left. You want one, dear?” “No, luv, but a glass of cold water would suit me fine.” “Be right back.” When she returned to his room with the promised ice water, he was sound asleep. She took a couple sips of her juice and lay on the other bed. Her eyes closed and her mind shut down as she drifted off to sleep. **** In the end, Lucas was hospitalized for three more days before the doctor pronounced him recovered enough to go home. This time, Dr. Walker insisted on him using crutches to keep the strain off the leg. He groused about it, but agreed, anxious to get home. Michael came to pick them up and when they arrived home, Luke, Zakia, the twins, Sam, and Blake were there waiting for them. Then Winnie turned and saw Jack, her youngest. She ran to him, and he gathered her up in a swift hug. “Jack, why didn’t you tell me you were coming?” “Kind of a last minute decision. Michael called, and we got to talking and he came to pick me up last night. I wanted to surprise you.” Her accusing gaze landed on Michael. “You never said a word.” He laughed. “Couldn’t, Mama. Jack swore me to secrecy.”

“Never mind, at least he’s here. What’s everybody doing standing around? Have a seat and I’ll put the coffee on.” “Already made,” said Zakia as the four adults moved aside to expose a table laden with goodies. “I didn’t think you’d feel much like cooking today, so we arranged this little get together to welcome you both home.” “For good this time, I hope,” said Lucas. “From your mouth to God’s ears,” said Winnie. “I don’t need any more scares like the last two.” “Harrumph! You think I enjoyed wakin’ up on the floor?” “No more than I was thrilled to see you there,” she said. “Now hop on over to the table and take a seat so I can put those crutches out of the way.” “Yes, ma’am.” Lucas said in a conciliatory tone then blew her a kiss, which the boys thought was funny. “You’re silly, Grampie,” Cammy said. “I am? Why is that?” “Because you made Grandma turn red,” said Casey. All eyes turned to Winnie, and she felt heat consume her cheeks as she blushed even brighter. “I’ll pour the coffee.” “Have a seat,” said Sam. “Pouring coffee is the one thing I excel at in the kitchen.” Everyone chuckled as they claimed seats around the table. Sam was not a cook, something they all knew. “I’ll have to spend some time studying while I’m here, but it sure feels good to be among family again,” said Jack as he reached for a sandwich. “Pleased to have ya,” said Lucas. “How long are ya stayin’?” “Michael’s driving me back Sunday night. I have an early class on Monday.” “How’s it going?” Luke asked. “Are you learning anything we should know about?” “I’m learning lots and, as soon as it’s all clear in my own mind, I’ll share the knowledge.” “When do you finish?” asked Zakia. “I have one more year to go before I can settle into ranching full-time.”

“I’m so proud of you for sticking with it, Jack,” said Winnie. “Although I had my doubts at first…all that partying.” She shook her head in remembrance. “I thought for sure they’d kick you out.” “Now, Mama, I partied hard in the evenings, but I always showed up for class. Only fell asleep once and that was theory, boring.” She smiled at him, pleased with the sort of young man he was turning out to be. “Well, I’m proud of both of you, going after your dreams and making something of yourself.” “Thanks, Mama,” said Michael. “Yeah, thanks, but I’m not there yet. Congratulate me next year, when I’ve deserved it.” “I’ll do that, too.” Conversation ceased for a short time as they ate. “Hey, Lucas, you up for a round of chess after lunch?” asked Sam. Jack groaned. “Another one bites the dust.” “Uh, uh. The lass bested me two out of three…when she had amnesia, for cryin’ out loud.” “Really? This I’ve gotta see,” said Jack. “Mind if I watch, too?” asked Michael. “I don’t remember you ever being beat.” Lucas chuckled. “The more the merrier, just remember to keep your traps shut. She don’t need any help.” Everyone laughed as they moved away from the table, the men going to the living room and the women staying behind to clean up the kitchen. “Go with them, Sam. Zakia and I can finish up here.” “Are you sure? I don’t mind making them wait.” “Sam, you comin’?” hollered Lucas. “What did I tell you? Go!” Winnie said. “And have fun.” “Oh, I will,” Sam assured them as she left to play chess. **** Sam won the first round, and everyone cheered. Lucas won the second. They were playing their third game, and Lucas planned every move carefully, even still, she bested him again. “Have you ever played in tournaments, lass?” “No, I haven’t. Until I came here, I’d only played in the Army. Why?”

“Just wonderin’ if’n I was goin’ to have competition this year for the district title.” “No, I don’t think so.” “Why not?” he asked. Sam smirked. “I wouldn’t want to show you up in front of your friends.” A loud guffaw issued forth. “Girlie, I don’t care much about retainin’ the title, but I’d love to see the looks on the faces of a few of them to have a woman beat them.” “Ahhh, like that is it? Sounds challenging.” “Darned tootin’! You game?” “When does it start? Is there a cost involved?” “January. We meet once a week, and you only have to pay if you lose.” “I’ll think about it and let you know.” “Good enough.” Lucas moved to the recliner so he could put his feet up for a while. He could feel the leg swelling and it had started to throb, but he didn’t want to ask for meds and alarm Winnie. “Lucas, dear, you forgot your noon antibiotic. Do you need one of your pain pills, too?” Damn! That woman was astute! “Yes, luv.” “I’ll get them for you.” She left and came back with his meds and a glass of cold water. “Thank you, Winnie.” The twins wanted to sit with him on the recliner, but Luke shooed them away. “Grampie has a sore leg. It has to heal and it won’t if you guys start climbing all over him.” “Okay, but can we hug him?” asked Casey. “His neck’s not sore, is it, Daddy?” Cammy asked. Luke laughed. “Yes, you can hug him.” They stood, one on each side of the recliner, to hug their Grampie. Lucas smiled. “Your hugs make me feel much better. Thanks, guys.” “I think it’s time we headed out so you can get some rest. Is there anything you need?” “Thanks, Luke, but no. We have everythin’ we need. Thanks for the welcome home. It sure feels good to be back.” “I hear ya, Lucas,” said Sam. “I hate hospitals.”

“We need to shove off, too. I still tire easy and have taken to having an afternoon nap,” said Blake, with a fond look toward Sam. Sam blushed prettily, her rosy cheeks in stark contrast to her porcelain-toned features. “Come back anytime,” Lucas said. “We invalids need to stick together.” Blake laughed at that and stood, taking Sam’s hand in his as they left the room. Luke and his family followed. Winnie and Jack saw them to the door. “Michael, could you pass me those crutches. I think I’ll lie down for a spell.” “Sure.” He passed him the crutches and held out a hand. Lucas took it. “Thanks, boy. I’m a little unsteady.” “Why don’t I help you to the bedroom? Mama will never know.” Lucas nodded and passed him a crutch to carry, leaning heavily against his stepson as they traversed the short distance. “Are you all right?” “Yeah, but my leg is swollen and throbbin’ somethin’ awful. Left it down too long while playin’ chess. Should’ve known better.” “Want me to fetch an ice pack?” “No, but if you could prop some pillows under my leg after I lay down, it would be a big help.” He did. “Is that all right?’ “That’s fine. Thanks.” Winnie came waltzing in, and Michael left. “Decided to lie down for a while, I see. Are you feeling all right?” “I’m fine but that leg’s hurtin’. Thought I’d rest it a bit.” “Good idea. I’m glad to see you’re being sensible. Do you need anything before I go back to the boys?” “I thought you might want to join me.” “Not today, Jack and I have lots of catching up to do and only two days to do it in.” She leaned over to give him a hug and a chaste kiss on the cheek, but he turned his head and captured her lips instead. The intended swift kiss turned into a molten hot mating of tongues, leaving him wanting more.

“I’ve missed you—missed sharin’ a bed with you, but I understand. If’n I fall asleep, wake me when dinner’s ready.” “Yes, I’ll do that. Sweet dreams,” she said as she tucked the blankets in around him. She went out and closed the door behind her to leave him staring at the ceiling. Lucas found it too quiet and lonely in the bedroom without her. He considered getting back up but the throbbing in his leg kept him where he was. He’d just rest until the pain subsided, then go find her. For a minute there, he was almost jealous of her sons, but Jack was only here for a couple of days. He couldn’t begrudge them their time together. Winnie would be back in his bed tonight, and they could make up some lost loving then. His head resting comfortably on the down-filled pillows, he closed his eyes and thought of his beautiful wife. Eventually, the pain eased off and he fell asleep.

Chapter Thirteen Winnie sat on the back porch, basking in the attention of her two youngest sons. She loved having them with her, but it didn’t happen often enough. Her focus riveted on her youngest. “I swear you’ve grown since I last saw you, Jack, and matured quite a bit, too.” “Mama, I was home last Christmas. Hopefully, I’ve matured some, but I don’t think I’ve grown any taller.” “No, maybe not. You’ve slimmed down some though.” “Yeah, I worked at a vegetable farm this summer, remember? A body’s bound to lose a few pounds working in the heat.” “How could I forget? I never got to see you all summer, although I’m sure it was a great experience for you.” “Yes, and I found out the type of soil we have here is great for growing certain kinds of vegetables. Could be a good way to generate some extra income for the ranch in years to come.” “I’ll leave that up to you. You’re the expert, or soon will be.” She smiled, happy to know that he still planned to return to the ranch after graduation. “So, what are your plans for the weekend?’ “Michael wants to get started on your wood for winter, so I think we’ll take the four-wheel drive and head out in the morning. Is the wood splitter still on wheels?” “Yes, it is,” she answered. “Good, we’ll get a couple loads cut and split and piled into the basement tomorrow. You sure didn’t have much left over from last year.” “No, it was an extremely cold winter. I know we need the wood, but I hoped for more time to visit,” Winnie said. “We’ll still have time to visit. Since we’re taking the truck, you could pack a picnic lunch and come with us.” “That’s a terrific idea! I’ll run it by Lucas and see if he’s up to it. His leg has been causing him a lot of pain. Traveling over a bumpy trail might not do it any good.” Michael laughed. “If I know Lucas, he’ll be overjoyed to get out of the house for the day.” “Hmm, maybe. We’ll see.”

“We can always take the tractor and wagon, that way if he’s feeling poorly, you could bring him back in the truck,” Jack said. “If we take a tarp to cover the wood splitter, it would be fine until we fetch it in the morning.” “Yes, that could work. Sounds like a plan. I’m going in to check on him and then start dinner.” “Okay. I’m going to take Bella for a ride,” said Jack. “I’ll come with you. There’s not much chance to go riding in Vancouver. See you later, Mama.” “Don’t get lost and make sure you’re back in time for dinner.” The boys chuckled as they headed for the barn, and Winnie smiled as she watched them race each other to the door. Always competitive, those two. A few minutes later, she saw them ride out of the yard. It felt good to have them home. Too bad they couldn’t stay. She heard a noise from the front of the house and went to check on Lucas. He was awake and sitting at the edge of the bed. “Hey there, handsome. Enjoy your nap?” “Yep, had some mighty pleasant dreams of a pretty woman I know.” He reached out an arm and pulled her between his legs, kissing her soundly. “My oh my! That must’ve been some dream,” she said as she straightened up. His chuckle sounded decidedly wicked. “Care to join me? I can show you better than I can tell you.” Tempted to forget about dinner and lay down with her man, she hesitated. What would it hurt if dinner was a little late? Her answer was to push him gently backwards and lie down beside him. “Shouldn’t you lock the door? We have guests.” “The boys have gone riding. They won’t be back for a while yet.” She leaned forward, her lips brushed his and her fingers wove through his hair. “You’ll need a haircut soon. It’s quite long.” “If’n I can stay out of that danged hospital long enough, I might have time to get one.” “I kind of like it this length.” “You do? It’s been a lot of years since mine grew out like this. I do remember a time when you used to wear yours long. So shiny and sleek. Reminded me of a well-groomed horse.” She laughed, amused at the comparison. Anyone could tell he was a rancher.

“What made you decide to start wearin’ it short, Win?” “I had an attack of bursitis in my shoulder a few years back. It became too difficult to take care of, so I got it cut and soon became used to the shorter length. Now I prefer it.” Her fingers continued to sift through his hair as they talked. She leaned in closer to nibble on his earlobe and rained soft kisses down the line of his jaw. “You need a shave.” He chuckled and rolled her over on her back. Her blouse and bra disappeared in a hurry, and he bent to take her nipple into his mouth. The stubble on his chin electrified the sensation as it rubbed against the sensitized flesh of her breast. Both hands twined in his hair, pulling him closer, tighter. She heard the rasp of a zipper as he reached between their bodies. He pushed her panties aside and went straight for her pussy, his large, calloused hand working her to a fever pitch in an instant. When she lifted her bottom, he pushed her jeans down and off, and came back to suckle the other breast. He rolled onto his back, taking her with him, and she straddled him, surprised to find that he’d undone his own jeans and his magnificent cock awaited her. She didn’t waste any time lowering herself onto his hardened length. He filled her perfectly, and she rejoiced in the joining after so many days sleeping apart. Ride him she did. Slowly at first, but her need was too great. Faster and faster, she rode as he pushed up harder and harder, their eyes wide open and focused on each other. When the climax came, she shuddered in pure ecstasy, her insides clenching around his cock to milk every last drop of juice. Finally, exhausted, she lay beside him again. “Thank you, luv. I sure needed you.” “And I you, but somehow, I have to get up and cook supper when all I want to do is stay right here.” “Then stay. The boys know how to fend for themselves.” “Lucas! I couldn’t! What would they think?” He chuckled. “They’d think Mama has somethin’ good goin’ on.” “Exactly!” She gave him a swift kiss and climbed off the bed to dash into the en suite shower. A few minutes later, she wrapped herself in a towel, sarong fashion, and went back to the bedroom to dress. Lucas was still lying where she left him.

“Ummm, beautiful,” he said. “Are you coming?” “I think I just did.” She laughed. “Get out of that bed and come keep me company while I cook dinner.” “Yes, ma’am.” He reached for the crutches, but they clattered to the floor. “Damn things! I can walk just fine without them.” “Now, Lucas, the doctor warned you against putting weight on that leg,” she said as she bent to retrieve the crutches. “You don’t want to end up back in the hospital again. Do you?” “No, you’re right. I’ll give it another day or two.” He stood and balanced himself before walking toward the bathroom. “I’ll be out in two shakes.” Winnie giggled delightedly. “Any more than two and you’re playing with it.” Lucas guffawed loudly as he went in and closed the door behind him. She finished dressing and headed for the kitchen, wondering what she could whip up before the boys returned. **** At dinner that night, the boys were full of their plans for the morning. Lucas thrilled to the idea of going with them. “As long as I remember to take my meds with me, I’ll be fine.” “We’ll take the tractor and wagon along anyway. Saves making a return trip for another load.” “Good idea, Jack. I can sit and run the splitter.” “Except you’re forgetting one major detail,” Winnie said. He arched an eyebrow in question. “You’re not allowed to lift more than ten pounds.” “Damn! I did forget. Must be from the pain in my leg. Forgot about this old ticker of mine.” “I can help the boys.” Lucas mumbled beneath his breath. “What did you say, dear?” “It’s not right, you workin’ and me sittin’.” “And it wouldn’t be any better with you working and me worrying. So either you’re willing to sit and do nothing, or we don’t go.” “Harrumph! I’ll sit.”

“Great! Now that’s settled, I have some studying to do. Excuse me,” Jack said as he rose to rinse his plate and place it in the sink. “Want to join us and watch TV?” Winnie asked. “There might be something good on.” “Not just yet. I can watch all the TV I want when I return to Vancouver. I think I’ll mosey on out to the bunkhouse and talk to the guys. They might have a poker game going.” “They might at that,” said Lucas. “Don’t let ‘em take all your money.” “I won’t. See you later.” He waited while Winnie cleaned up the kitchen then hopped alongside her as they headed to the living room. “You sit in the recliner so you can put your leg up.” “Nope, I’m cuddlin’ with my wife on the sofa.” She immediately pulled the coffee table closer and placed a big, fluffy pillow on top. “There, you stubborn old coot, rest your leg on that.” She smiled as he readjusted his position. “Comfy?” “Yep, now pass me the remote and sit yerself down right here, luv.” He patted the sofa cushion beside him. She did, and he wrapped his free arm around her shoulders as he thumbed the remote to see what was on the tube. It felt good to sit with her tucked snug against him as they laughed at the antics on the comedy show they’d settled on. CSI came on next, and she snuggled in closer during a hideous looking scene. “It’s only a show, luv. It’s not real.” “I know, but it looks real. That coroner must have a heart of steel to be able to examine those mangled bodies. Makes me realize what they go through in real life.” “There are all kinds of sickos in this world, true enough.” His thoughts turned to her son, Roy, and all the shenanigans he and his friends had done. Murder, kidnapping, and terror. They deserved whatever was coming to them, as far as he was concerned. “At least Roy didn’t hurt anyone.” So, her thoughts had turned to him, too. It wasn’t unusual for them to pick up on each other’s wavelengths. “No, but his friends sure

did. Two cops dead and one badly injured. If Sam hadn’t insisted on looking for him, Blake surely would have bled to death out there.” “Yes, her instincts were spot on that night.” “We don’t have to watch this if’n you don’t want to.” “Oh no, I love this show. I need to know how it ends.” He chuckled and hugged her tight. “That’s my girl!” The show ended, and Jack hadn’t reappeared. “Want to wait and say good night to the boys?” he asked. “No, it’s hard to say when Michael will come in, and I don’t want to disturb Jack while he’s studying.” “Then help me up and we’ll call it a night.” Lucas hobbled alongside her as they made their way to the bedroom, then turned and locked the door. Tonight, he intended to make slow, passionate love to his woman. He didn’t want to worry about anyone walking in, not that the boys would, but he wanted to make certain they had their privacy. Winnie went through to the bathroom, and he sat at the edge of the bed to shuck his clothes as he waited. When she emerged, she wore the hottest little scrap of lingerie he’d ever seen. Made entirely of black lace, it hugged all her womanly curves and showcased her cleavage to perfection. His dick stood at attention, harder than he’d thought possible. So much for slow. Damn, she was hot! “Wow! Where did you find that outfit?” “Do you like it? I saw it in the hospital boutique and bought it on impulse.” “Like it? I love it! Not that you’ll be wearin’ it long.” He reached out his arms, and she came to him. He hugged her close, burying his face between her breasts as his hands molded her ass, caressing her butt cheeks, and pulling her even closer. His cock rubbed between her upper thighs, and she wiggled against it, tilting her pelvis up to make better contact. One hand rubbed her ass crack while the other slid between their bodies, pushing the lace aside to cup her moist wet pussy. She reached with one hand to undo the snaps at her crotch, and he was lost. “Pull that footstool over here, would you, luv?” “For your leg?” “Nope, for you.” He smiled lecherously.

Once it was in position, she passed him a tube of Vaseline then turned her back to him, using the footstool to support her upper body as she bent over. Greased and ready, he pulled her ass against the head of his cock, easing it in bit by bit. She wiggled and pushed against him, trying her best to hurry him up. “Impatient, luv?” “Yes! Do it, Lucas! Make me squirm with delight.” He chuckled. “Your wish is my command.” His cock was all the way in now and, holding onto her hips for leverage, he pumped into her, driving it home again and again. She was so tight and felt so good. It was all he could do to maintain control with her meeting him, thrust for thrust. Her ass clenched the head of his dick, and he knew she was fast reaching her climax. A few more hard, hurried thrusts and she darned near clamped the head of him off. He let loose his own orgasm, his seed spilling into her in a rush of release as she collapsed on the stool. “Oh, Lucas! That was sensational!” “It was pretty darned good from where I’m sittin’, too.” He pulled out, and she scrambled to her feet, kissed him deeply and headed for the bathroom. When she came back a few minutes later, she brought a pan of warm, soapy water and a facecloth with her. With deft, sure strokes, she cleaned him up and dried him off, encouraging another hard-on in the process. “Mmmm, looks like it’s going to be a long night,” she said. “What can I say? It’s been a long few days without you…without lovin’ you.” “I feel the same way, but you don’t want to overdo.” “Can’t. Once we’re in bed it’s you doin’ all the work. And I do love that nightie you’re wearin’.” She giggled. “It’s called a teddy.” “A teddy to wear for your teddy bear.” He wrapped her in his arms for a long, loving kiss. His lips trailed a path to her breasts, sucking each nipple in turn through the lace. “How do I get you out of this thing?” She reached down to pull it up and over her head, exposing her nude body to his view. Never in all the days he had left on this Earth would he get enough of this amazing woman. Never. “Come to bed.”

He lay back on the bed, and she curled up beside him, her hand making lazy circles on his chest before zeroing in on a hard, male nipple. She squeezed and tweaked it, setting off internal sparks that had his cock springing forth in reaction. His cock twitched in anticipation as her hand stroked his chest and played around his belly button, before moving lower. She palmed his balls, rubbing and squeezing gently, her thumb sliding along the underside of his erection. When her fingers wrapped around his dick, smoothing the length up and down, he thought he’d died and gone to heaven. Pure bliss! Her grip firm, yet gentle, zinged heat through to his very soul. Her mouth settled over him, sucking earnestly, and he almost came right there and then. The intensity of emotion he felt for this woman made it even more pleasurable. He was quickly reaching his peak and tried to pull her up and over him, but she wouldn’t let go, continuing to suck and brandish the tip with her tongue. His self-control pushed to the limit, when she cupped his balls and tweaked a nipple at the same time, his juices gushed forth, and she swallowed every last drop. “Woman, get up here. Time for you to get some of that pleasure you’ve been dishin’ out.” She straightened out to lie beside him, and he kissed her, tasting himself but preferring to taste her. “Uh, uh. Sit up here. Straddle my face so I can drink of your sweet nectar.” Giggling delightfully, she did as he bade her, holding onto the headboard for support. He dove right in, his tongue lapping her clit before diving in to tickle her insides. Her body moved in reaction to his intimate kisses, bearing down on him and rotating in rhythm with the swirling of his tongue. He reached up to hold onto her breasts, massaging their fullness and pinching the nipples ever so slightly. She pushed forward into his hands, and he squeezed, earning a taste of her honeyed wetness. He pinched and massaged, squeezed and tweaked, and she moved faster, rotating on his face. When he slid a finger along the crack of her ass, she exploded, and he drank his fill, releasing her only when she sagged against him. She shifted to lie beside him, her movements slow, listless. “Oh, wow! You’d think that after three years of marriage this would be same old, same old, but it never is.”

“I know exactly what you’re sayin’, luv. With you, every time seems like the first, only better.” “Yes,” she said as she drew the covers over their naked bodies and snuggled in close. “And I hope it stays that way.” Lucas chuckled and kissed the top of her head as he hugged her tight to his side. “With you to inspire me, our lovin’ can only keep gettin’ better and better.” “Hmmm, maybe I should buy sexy lingerie more often.” “It’s your sexy body that holds my interest, but a little stage dressin’ sure didn’t hurt none.” He rubbed his hand down her arm, feeling the coolness of her skin as the sweat dried, and he pulled the covers over her shoulders. “Go to sleep, luv. We have an early day tomorrow.” “Good night, Lucas. I love you.” “I love you, too, darlin’. Good night.”

Chapter Fourteen She’d showered, dressed, and come through to the kitchen to put coffee on, but the boys had been there before her. She found them sitting on the back porch. “Isn’t it kind of crisp to be sitting out here?’ “Good morning, Mama. It’s a little on the cool side, but such a beautiful day, I had to be outside,” Jack said. “Ditto that. Morning, Mama.” “Good morning, Jack, Michael. Have you had breakfast?” “I gulped down a quick bowl of cereal about an hour ago, but I’m still hungry,” said Jack, smiling at her in a hopeful, puppy dog way. “Yeah, I grabbed a piece of toast, but I could eat again if it’s not too much bother.” “No bother at all. You know how much I love having you boys home. I’ll holler when it’s ready.” “Thanks, Mama,” they said at about the same time. Winnie put eggs on to boil, fried up some leftover ham, poured juice, and made toast. Lucas sat at the table, his leg propped on a chair while he drank his first cup of coffee. She could feel his gaze follow her around the kitchen every time she moved. Once she turned and caught him, but he only smiled lasciviously and kept watching. Finally she turned, hands on hips. “Lucas, you have got to stop ogling my ass. The boys will be in soon.” “I’m not doin’ that,” he said. “I’m dressin’ you in that black scrap of lace again. Makes a mighty fine picture as you go about your cookin’.” “Oh! Lucas, you’re incorrigible!” She laughed and blew him a kiss, then went back to her cooking, knowing he’d play nice during breakfast. After breakfast, she made their lunch and filled a thermos with tea. Lucas went out to help the boys get ready for their trip to the woods. He’d finished filing the power saw blades by the time she went outside to join him. She watched her boys while they hooked the wood splitter up to the tractor then loaded the saws and gas jugs.

“Don’t forget the helmets, gloves, and safety glasses,” Lucas reminded them. “Got them,” said Michael. “Loaded the first aid kit, too,” Jack said. “Good. What about a tarp in case we have to leave the splitter there overnight?” asked Lucas. “I’ll get it.” Jack ran to the barn. “Funny how they didn’t move that fast when they were in their teens. The wood could’ve rotted in the yard if I hadn’t kept after them. They wouldn’t have regretted it at all, until winter set in, although it never did come to that.” “Teenagers only think in the present. They’re men now, and you should be proud of them wantin’ to help and all.” “I am proud of them, Lucas, very much so, but it took an awful lot of nagging to get them to this point.” “Nah, they just had a lot of growin’ up to do. Typical boys.” “Did you have the same kind of problem with Luke?” “No, can’t say that I did. He followed me everywhere, always wantin’ to help.” “Perhaps if their father had lived longer….” “Hush, luv. You did a fine job with those boys. A damned fine job.” She leaned her head against his shoulder, thankful to have such a caring, understanding man. “Thanks, at least these two turned out pretty good. I don’t know what happened to make Roy the way he is.” “Nothing you did, of that I’m certain. I wonder what’s taking Jack so long. The tarps are stacked right inside the barn door.” “Maybe he thought of something else we might need,” said Michael as he came up the steps to sit with them. “It’s been a while since we did this.” “If’n we want to get any amount of wood cut today, we should head out.” “No rush. I’m going in for a drink. Want one?” “Yeah, sure,” Lucas said as he cast a strange glance at Michael. “Not for me, thanks.” After Michael went in the house, she asked, “What’s on your mind?” “Those boys are stallin’ on purpose.”

“You think so?” “Yep, I’d bet my best horse on it.” “That’s not fair. What’s yours is mine already,” she said, smiling. “You know what I mean,” he said as he reached for her hand. “Yes, but why would they be stalling? It doesn’t make sense. They’re the ones who wanted to go in the first place.” Michael came back outside carrying the cooler containing their lunch. “I thought you went inside for a drink,” said Lucas. “Drank it already.” He walked down the steps to place the cooler on the back of the truck. “I better go fetch the thermos before I forget it,” Winnie said. “Michael, come get the water jug, will you?” “Sure thing, Mama.” He bounded up the stairs and followed his mother into the house, returning to place it in the truck with the cooler. Right then, Luke’s truck pulled into the driveway, with Blake’s close behind. “Looks like we got us some company,” said Lucas as Jack finally made an appearance. “Nope, what we have are extra helpers,” stated Michael proudly. “Well, I’ll be darned!” Lucas said as he positioned his crutches and got to his feet. “Come on, Mama. Let’s git this convoy under way.” He headed down the steps and hopped into their truck. “Thanks, Michael. He was worried about being laid up and not getting enough wood in.” “When I spoke to Luke last night, he volunteered. We’re supposed to have snow on the weekend, so we’ll do as much as we can today.” “Oh, dear! I didn’t pack enough lunch.” “Not to worry. They said they’d bring their own. Ready to go?” She nodded, and he took her arm as he led her down the porch steps, opening the truck door to assist her in. “Lead the way. We’ll be right behind you.” Luke had brought along an outdoor lounge chair and set it up for his father.

“There you go, Dad. I wanted to make sure you were comfortable while supervising the rest of us.” “Thank you, lad. That was mighty thoughtful. Now get to work.” Lucas laughed along with everyone else. Cammy and Casey entertained their grandfather while the rest went to work. Luke, Michael, Jack, and Sam ran the power saws. Michael and Jack cut down trees, and Luke and Sam junked them up to be split. Blake also had to take it easy, but was allowed to run the splitter. He just couldn’t lift the chunks onto the machine. Zakia and Winnie did that. They had a good jag of wood cut and split in no time. “Time for a break,” Winnie called above the roar of the saws. One by one, they shut down and came over to where Winnie and Zakia were setting up a snack on the truck’s tailgate. Winnie filled a plate with goodies and a mug with tea and took it over to her husband. “Here, honey. You must be getting thirsty.” “Harrumph! It’s not as if I’m doin’ anythin’ to work up a thirst.” She laughed. “You’re keeping the twins occupied. That counts for a lot.” He smiled up at her. “Yes, it does, doesn’t it? I didn’t want them getting’ in the way and perhaps hurt.” “I think that’s what they counted on,” she said, nodding her head in the direction of the others. “Better go get yerself somethin’ to eat before it’s gone.” When they finished their snack, everyone helped load the wood they had split then went back to cutting and splitting more until it was time for lunch. By the time they returned to the house for dinner, the wagon and all three trucks were loaded with wood. Luke and Michael positioned the chute in the basement window and threw the wood in, with Sam and Jack waiting downstairs to stack it in rows. Blake and Lucas sat on the porch, keeping an eye on the twins as they ran around the yard. Winnie nodded to Zakia and the two women went inside, washed up, and went to work in the kitchen. Winnie smiled, pleased that their family and friends had come together to help them. All in all, it had been a very productive day. ****

Lucas drove into the ranch yard and parked next to the barn. “What do you say to goin’ for a ride?” “A walk would probably serve us better after that huge dinner we ate in town.” “That was to celebrate my freedom.” “Freedom?” she asked. “Am I missing something here?” He chuckled merrily. “Freedom from restrictions, girl. The doctor finally gave me a clean bill of health today. I can ride a horse ag’in. You comin’ with me?” “Of course, but let me change out of this dress first.” “Mmmm, can I help?” he asked, looking her up and down, his mind’s eye seeing the curves hidden by her long, winter coat. “If you do, we might not have time for that ride.” “I’ll take my chances.” They entered the house to find Michael seated at the table, eating a sandwich and some fries. “Hi, Michael. You’re home early,” Winnie said. “Hi, Mama, Lucas. Went to court this morning and decided to pull a few night shifts. Need to get to know the rest of the officers under my command.” “How did it go?” asked Winnie. “The evaluation was inconclusive.” “Meaning?” she asked. “Meaning that Roy will stand trial, but the jury has been instructed to be lenient due to him thinking he was protecting you, Mama.” “Oh!” “How do you like the job so far?” Lucas asked. “Well, it’s a lot different than working in Vancouver, but I like the slower pace. A few B and E’s are much better than murder and mayhem.” “I would certainly think so!” she said. “It’s so nice to have you home.” “Yeah, about that. If I’m infringing on your privacy, just say so and I’ll find an apartment in town.” “Don’t be foolish! If it weren’t for you bein’ here, we never would’a been ready for winter. Stay as long as you want to.” “Thanks, Lucas. I must shove off. Don’t want to be late my first night on the job.”

“You go ahead. Take care, dear.” “I will, Mama. See you sometime tomorrow. I’ll probably sleep in if I can.” “All right. See you then.” “Drive careful, the snow’s falling pretty hard and the roads are messy,” Lucas said. “Will do. Good night.” He gave his mother a swift hug and went out the door. “That boy has excellent timing. Now, about that dress….” He reached for her hand and led her toward the bedroom. **** “Beautiful!” She breathed, reining in her mount and reaching for Lucas’s hand. The winter sun balanced on the horizon, turning the sky a molten mix of reds, yellows, and oranges. “Never more so,” he agreed, his face turned toward her. “I was referring to the sunset!” “I’d much rather look at you, all beautiful, regal elegance the way you sit your horse.” “Then you’re missing a wonderful sunset,” she half-scolded. “There will be many more sunsets to share. I’d rather drink in the sight of you against the fiery backdrop. It’s mesmerizing. You’re mesmerizing. I’m sure you’ve cast a spell on me.” She giggled at his flowery words, so unlike him. “Oh, so now I’m a witch am I? Does that mean I can have my wicked way with you tonight?” “Tonight and every night. Let’s ride!” Their horses fairly flew as they allowed them to have their head, covering the open ground in record time. Lucas dismounted, lifted her down and hugged her tight before leading the horses into the barn. He removed their saddles, and she helped give the horses a brisk rubdown, all the while their eyes spoke of hunger, of need, of insatiable desire. Finally, he closed up the barn, slung an arm around her waist, and hugged her close as they traversed the short distance to the house. It was full dark and still snowing. They shed their outer gear and, not bothering to turn on any lights, she unerringly led him to their bedroom at the back of the house. Guided by the silvery stream of moonlight coming through the window, she crossed to the bed and turned back the blankets. Lucas

came up behind to embrace her, his hands gently cupping her sensitized breasts as he nuzzled her neck. His nimble fingers undid the buttons of her riding jacket and blouse pushing them down off her shoulders to pool in a puddle at their feet. The front fastening of her lacy bra proved no problem and soon she felt the roughness of his work-callused hands as they kneaded her fullness, teasing her nipples to hard, aching peaks. She moaned aloud as a mounting fire raged through her, her legs shaky and weak from desire. When one hand moved beneath the waistband of her slacks to cup her mound, she would have fallen except for his strong arms holding her upright. “Oh, Lucas!” she moaned as his erection pressed against her back. “Yes, luv?” “I need to feel you, skin to skin.” He undid the side zip on her slacks and pushed panties and all down over her hips, and turning her gently, sat her on the edge of the bed to remove them. She felt his lips press along the exposed skin as he worked his way back up her body. He paused long enough to strip and joined her on the bed, nudging her legs apart with his knees as he straddled her. She reached for him then, running circles through his chest hair, scraping a fingernail across his taut male nipples and building the promise of more to come as they kissed their way to abandon. When she palmed his shaft, he groaned, spurring her on to pleasure him as he had her. Each time they made love, it was more exciting, more intense than the time before. When their bodies joined, his slick hardness sliding into her silken wetness, she felt complete. She pushed upward in rhythm with his thrusts, taking him deep inside, then deeper still until she climaxed in colorful hues as brilliant as the sunset they’d witnessed earlier. He was her lover, her friend, her soul mate, her world. Whatever the future brought, she’d hold on tight and never let go. But if it turned out that Roy was guilty of terrorizing Lucas’s family, what kind of future would they have? She’d think about that tomorrow. For now, she had her man right where she wanted him. The End

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Other Books by Lorraine Nelson: Zakia and the Cowboy Covert Mission: Undercover Cop

Evernight Publishing www.evernightpublishing.com