© 2004
Chapter One
“Thank you Sully, I had a lovely time.”
Sully smiled, staring into Michaela’s eyes, “Pleasure’s all mine. Come I’ll take ya home.”
“That really won’t be necessary, I’ll…” Sully bent down to kiss Michaela, wanting to stop her idle chatter. Michaela hesitated at first not wanting to welcome the kiss with so many around, but Sully’s lips found hers before she could move.
“Sully.” Michaela blushed, noticing people staring in their direction.
“What?”
“The townsfolk are staring at us.” Michaela had felt a little uneasy with all the eyes she saw glued to them.
“Let them look.” Sully had the attention of the most beautiful woman in town and a little staring didn’t bother him.
Michaela smiled, “Alright, let’s go home.” Sully helped Michaela up onto the wagon, before climbing up beside her. He grabbed the reins, and turned the wagon towards the homestead.
“Did I ever tell you, how pretty you look tonight?”
“No.” Michaela answered with a blush followed by a smile.
Sully stopped the wagon, “You were the most beautiful woman there,” causing Michaela to turn another shade of pink. “And you Mr. Sully were looking rather handsome tonight in your suit.”
“Why thank you.” Sully leaned over brushing a curl from Michaela’s face, staring deeply into her eyes. Michaela’s heart skipped a beat at his touch. The closeness and intimacy were all new things that still frightened her. She believed that courting was more about talking than touching.
Sully sensed Michaela’s discomfort and pulled away. He climbed down and went over to help Michaela. She welcomed the arms reaching up, their strength lifted her off the wagon and set her gently on the ground.
“You gonna tell me what’s botherin’ ya?”
“Nothings bothering me.” Sully looked deep into Michaela’s eyes, something wasn’t right. He wanted her to talk about it, but she seemed intent on not speaking.
Michaela didn’t want to tell Sully she was frightened of a man touching her in such ways. Her new emotions from his touches stirred new feelings that she wasn’t sure of, but she welcomed his open arms, letting their strength surround her.
Sully walked away leaving Michaela standing there staring off in his direction. He was glad for the peace and quiet, giving him time to think. Sully had no idea how jealous Michaela had been in his spending time with Dorothy. Seeing her flustered and caught off guard brought a smile to his face. Michaela was stubborn, obstinate and he loved her all the more for it.
Michaela stood for a moment, watching Sully disappear from sight. Their courtship had gotten off to a rocky start and she only hoped everything would work out. Dorothy had done her best to reassure her that Sully’s feelings were pure and true. He had no place in his heart for anyone but her. Michaela was impressed that he’d learned new dances, just to surprise her yet again. She still remembered his sudden appearance in Boston, seeming out of place and then doing his best to fit in. Michaela loved every minute of dancing with Sully and felt a fool when she learned Dorothy had been giving him lessons before the Sweetheart’s Dance. Michaela’s attempt had failed neither really seeing eye to eye. She felt at times they had too many differences, but deep down she wanted no other.
****
Michaela left early the next morning to get a few things in town and to speak with Dorothy. She’d put her trust in her, grateful for a friend to talk and share things with. Before the dance, Michaela felt that trust slowly slipping away. Dorothy had told her that Sully had no room in his heart for anyone but her. Michaela knew now, Dorothy was right.
Michaela entered the store, basket in hand, her eyes scanning for anything she might need. Dorothy came out of her room, watching Michaela study two balls of yarn. Smiling, Dorothy approached, “Mornin’ Michaela.”
Michaela, startled by the voice, nearly dropped the yarn she was holding. She turned to find Dorothy standing at her side. “Morning, Dorothy.”
“Anythin’ I can do for ya?”
“No, I’m, umm” Michaela trailed off, unsure of how to approach the subject.
“You gonna tell me what’s wrong?” Dorothy looked into Michaela’s eyes, something wasn’t right, hoping Michaela would talk about it.
Michaela glanced up at Dorothy; she’d been hurt thinking her best friend had stolen Sully. Now she felt like a fool, knowing Dorothy was only trying to help him learn how to dance.
“You were right.”
“Right about what?”
“Sully.” Michaela blushed.
“Oh.” Dorothy smiled. “You didn’t believe me did ya?” She watched as more color came to Michaela’s cheeks.
“I do now.”
“I can see that. I’m glad you finally came to your senses.” A look of understanding passed between the two women. “You gonna get any of that yarn?”
“Yes.” Michaela handed Dorothy a small handful of yarn she’d been looking at for the past five minutes.
****
“Michaela.”
“Sully.” Michaela watched and Sully walked over, she blushed at the look he was giving her.
“Let me help you with that.” Sully gently took the basket from her hand.
“That’s very kind of you but,” Michaela’s words were lost in Sully’s gaze.
“Ain’t no harm in lettin’ folks help ya.” Michaela recalled the first time Sully had said that, she’d been nearly helpless with a broken wrist. She hadn’t wanted his help with anything, wanting to prove that she could do anything he could.
“Dr. Mike!” Myra ran out of the saloon, throwing a shawl over her shoulders.
“Myra.” Michaela turned towards the saloon.
Myra stopped in her tracks, out of breath from the short distance she’d run. “You gotta help me.”
“What’s wrong?” Michaela’s face took on a concerned look.
“Somethin’ just ain’t right with me. Hank’s awful mad that I can’t…, um…”
Michaela registered that what Myra wanted to discuss, wasn’t appropriate to talk about outside. “Come inside and we can talk more.” Michaela smiled, putting her arm around Myra and leading her into the clinic. Sully followed, basket still in hand and sat down on the bench.
Hank came out of the saloon a few minutes later. He took one last puff from his cigar before throwing it to the ground. Myra had run out just as a customer had paid for her services; he wasn’t happy with her at all.
Sully watched Hank approach, a glare evident in his eyes. “Myra in there?”
“And if she is?”
“I’m bringing her back. She ran off on a payin’ customer.” Hank made for the door, aiming to go inside. Sully took note of Hank’s actions and stood up, blocking Hank’s path.
“You gonna let me pass?”
“Just let her be.”
“She’s costing me good money.”
“So? Is that all you can think about?”
“Yah, so you mind moving out of my way.”
“Sit down.” Hank shot Sully a look, angry with him for interfering. What right did he have to keep him from his best girl? Business was business and he had customers to please. However, Sully’s hard cold look told him otherwise. He’d rather not be on the receiving end of his tomahawk.
****
“What’s wrong with me?” Myra searched Dr. Mike’s face for answers.
“Nothing. Hank’s working you too hard, which explains why you are tired all the time. You need to be getting more sleep at night.”
“Is that all?”
“Yes, you’re going to be fine.”
“Thanks, Dr. Mike, I appreciate what you done for me.”
“You’re welcome, Myra.”
“I’d best be getting back. Hank’s probably mad as heck that I left.” Myra slid off the examining table and headed for the door. She found both Sully and Hank sitting there after opening the door.
“Hank, what are you doing here?” Myra asked, a puzzled look crossing her face. He hardly left the saloon during the day, unless it was to step outside for a smoke or to get something from the general store.
“You’ve got customers to attend to. Can’t have you runnin’ out on ‘em either.”
“Look Hank, I had to see Dr. Mike about something. I would think the state of my health would be important to you.”
Michaela appeared in the doorway, shooting Hank a look. “You’re working her too hard, she’s gonna make herself sick.”
“Why don’t ya let me be the judge of that? I don’t need a lady tellin’ me what to do.”
“Suit yourself.”
“Come on Myra, we’re leaving.” Hank grabbed Myra’s arm, nearly dragging her back to the saloon.
Michaela turned back into the clinic, shutting the door behind her. Hank was damn near impossible sometimes, and poor Myra just wanted to become someone. Horace could well be the best thing that happened to Myra.
“May I come in?” Sully asked, sticking his head through the door.
“Oh Sully, I’m sorry.” She’d almost forgotten that he was sitting out there with her basket.
“No worries.” Sully walked over to Michaela’s desk, setting the basket down.
“Michaela, you alright?” Sully asked as he closed the clinic door behind him.
“Yes, I’m fine.” Michaela was a little worried about Myra; it seemed that Hank didn’t really care about her, except that she brought in money.
“No, you’re not. Somethin’s botherin’ ya.”
Michaela hesitated for a moment before speaking. “It’s Myra. She can’t keep going on like this.” Sully nodded.
“I think you just gotta let her deal with that.” Michaela nodded, “Maybe you’re right.”
“How ‘bout we go get some lunch at Grace’s?” Sully offered his hand to Michaela hoping she would take it in her own.
“I can’t I have work to do.” Michaela hadn’t accomplished anything this morning and looked around at all that needed to be done.
Sully ran his fingers through his hair, “Nothin’ that can’t wait.” He then took Michaela’s hand in his, “You’re coming, ya need to eat something.” Michaela reluctantly followed Sully, worried still that she might not get anything done today.
****
The stagecoach rolled into town, dust swirling all around, and the horses moving at a steady pace. The driver stopped in the middle of the town, as the townsfolk gathered round.
A petite figure of a woman peered out through the windows. She noticed the dusty streets, and eager faces awaiting mail and packages. An old man came, opening the door, offering her his hand.
“Ma’am.” Laura took the hand that was offered to her, stepping carefully down on the street below.
“Thank you, sir.”
“My pleasure.” Loren thought she looked to be a mere child, innocent and naïve, but her eyes told that she’d seen a lot.
Laura, clutching her bag close, began her exploration of the town. Everything seemed so small and dusty from what she was used to. After the death of her parents, the West seemed to hold hope and opportunity. She very much wanted to start a new life.
Spotting the saloon, Laura marched over to inquire about a room. She received shocked looks, and catcalls.
“Anythin’ I can help ya with?”
“I’d like a room please.” Hank laughed, thinking this young lady must be crazy. Didn’t she know what went on here?
“We don’t have rooms for ladies.”
“Pity.” Laura turned facing the crowd before exiting. The men in Colorado were going to be a challenge.
Laura started walking out of town when the smell of good food made its way to her nose. She turned, letting her empty stomach and feet lead her to the source of the smells.
Grace was busily waiting tables and almost didn’t see Laura. “Oh, I’m sorry I didn’t see ya. Can I help ya?”
“I’d love some of what smells so good.”
“Have a seat and I’ll bring some to you.”
“Thank you.” Laura turned; her eyes searching for an empty table, unfortunately there were none. She stood for a moment, pondering who to sit with, when a gentle voice chimed in.
“You may sit here.” Myra smiled at the girl, who did the same back. Laura sat down, setting her back at her feet. Grace came by a moment later with a plate of food.
“Grace is the best cook in town.”
“Meat loaf’s delicious.” She had wasted no time in savoring the meal in front of her.
“It’s the best.” Laura nodded her approval.
“How long ya in town for?”
Laura swallowed the food she had been chewing. “Dunno ma’am. I’m looking to start my life all over again.”
“It ain’t easy for a single woman to survive out here by herself.”
“Nothing is.”
“Don’t you give up now.” Myra hoped for the best for this new girl. Seeing how young she looked, it wasn’t going to be easy to survive all alone on the frontier.
“I won’t.” Laura answered a determined look in her eyes. All her life had been filled with disappointments and untrusting people. Now she had the chance to start all over, leaving the terrible past behind. Laura missed her parents dearly, they had been among the few she could trust, other than her brothers and sisters who were always double crossing her. Laura thought perhaps she could trust the nice lady from the saloon, only time would tell.
Chapter Two
Laura finished her meal, thanked Grace and left a small amount on the table. She didn’t have much money to begin with; the journey from the east had been long and hard. It was time now to find work if she was going to be able to support herself.
Laura walked back in the direction of town, making her way this time to the general store. She hoped to find the nice man from earlier; maybe he could help her out. The store was filled with clothing, books, candy, food and a small amount of people. Laura noticed a woman operating a large machine with some difficulty.
“You need any help with that ma’am.” Dorothy looked up surprised to see a young well dressed girl standing beside her.
“No, I’m fine thanks.” Dorothy replied, wiping her brow with a handkerchief.
“What is that thing you’re operating?” Laura was curious, having never seen such a machine before.
“It’s a printin’ press.”
“I’ve never seen anything like it. How does it work?” Laura moved closer, peering around at the fascinating machine. Dorothy went on to explain how the printing press worked and showed her how she put words on paper. Laura’s eyes widened when she saw the blank sheet appear again with many words all over.
Dorothy handed Laura the fresh printed copy, she was reluctant to take it at first, and afraid she might smudge the ink. “It’s alright, you can touch it.” Laura carefully took the paper from Dorothy, treating it like a freshly plucked rose. She dared not do anything that might ruin the words.
Laura looked back up a few moments later, ready to hand the paper back when she noticed sweat dripping from the lady’s brow. “You ok ma’am?”
“It sure is hot in here.” Dorothy wiped her brow again with the handkerchief she had.
Laura looked puzzled, the air was cool outside and it certainly wasn’t hot in the store. She didn’t know what to do, but when she saw Dorothy collapse on the floor her feet carried her outside, searching for help. “Someone, help me!” Laura cried out as she moved through the street, her eyes scanning the town for any signs of help. Spotting an open door, Laura ran inside.
Sully had just opened the door to leave when a figure darted by. He turned, noticing a petite girl a little older than Colleen. She was out of breath, searching the room for something. Her mind registered that she was in a clinic, but where was the doctor?
Laura turned to Michaela, “Ma’am”, thinking she must be a nurse and could tell her where the doctor would be. “We need a doc over at the store; you know where I can find him?”
Michaela took a moment to register that the young girl thought she was a nurse. “Pardon?”
“You’re a nurse right? And I’m sure you work for the doc in town?” A puzzled look crossed Laura’s face, something wasn’t right.
“I’m the doctor.”
Laura’s eyes widened in surprise of discovering the town doctor was a lady. “Oh, I’m so sorry. Best come quick.” She darted out the door again; Michaela and Sully at her heels.
****
“Dorothy, what happened?” Michaela rushed to her friend’s side, kneeling down to examine her.
“She collapsed and woke up not long before ya got here.” Laura looked between the two women; there was something more than a doctor/patient relationship.
“There doesn’t seem to be any sign of fever.” Michaela concluded after feeling Dorothy’s forehead. “How are you feeling?”
“I’m fine, just got a little warm was all.” Dorothy didn’t want Michaela fusing over her hot flashes and fainting spell.
“You ought to get some bed rest.”
“No, no I can’t do that; I’ve got a paper to print.
“Michaela’s right; here let me help you up.”
“Thanks Sully.”
Dorothy made her way back over to the press, when another hot flash occurred. Michaela and Sully were there immediately to take Dorothy to bed. She didn’t protest, giving in to Michaela’s orders.
Laura watched them lead Dorothy to bed before turning to face the printing press. She made up her mind to finish what Dorothy had started. “Here goes nothing,” Laura thought to herself; picking up a sheet of paper to put in the press.
Laura found the press tough to turn and nearly fell over in her efforts. “My, this is hard work.” She wiped her brow leaving a smudge of ink behind and later found the remaining pages to print much easier, after several unsuccessful prints. It was a hard job and she admired those who made a living this way.
“What do you think you’re doin’?” Loren had just walked in from lunch to discover a strange girl operating the printing press. She was also covered in ink from head to toe.
Laura looked up, peering over a clean sheet of paper. “Printin’ the paper.” She didn’t seem too confident in her answer, staring down at the floor avoiding Loren’s hard stares.
“Dorothy know you’re doin’ this?”
“No, sir.” Loren had the urge right then and there to find Dorothy, but he didn’t know where she was.
“Mark my words, when I see her again I’m gonna tell her what you was up to.” Loren then turned back to the customers who had just entered the store. Laura chose to ignore the comments and continued with her work.
Dorothy appeared sometime later, surprised to find Laura still there and covered in ink. “My, you have been busy.” Laura beamed with pride; she’d worked so hard to print as many copies of the paper as she could. “Yes ma’am, hope everything meets to your approval.”
Dorothy picked up one of the copies, studying it with the young girl watching her every move. “Hmm,” Dorothy paused. Laura held her breathe, waiting for the moment of truth. “You’ve done real good, thank you for your help.”
“Welcome, ma’am.”
“Please, do me one small favor, call me Dorothy.” Laura nodded. “Nice to meet ya Dorothy, I’m Laura.” Laura extended her small hand meeting Dorothy’s in a friendly greeting.
****
Hank kept a watchful eye on Myra all evening wanting to make sure she didn’t run off on good money again. He watched as Myra moved through the tables and chairs, occasionally stopping to greet one of the men. Maybe she could draw in a good man tonight. A poker player wanted a drink, “Hey little lady, how bout a whiskey?” Myra caught Hank’s protective gaze on her way to the bar. “Comin’ right up.” She took the awaiting glass from Hank, and dropped the man’s money on the counter. Hank stared at her a moment, drinking in her features before she turned away.
Jake lumbered into the saloon and plopped down on one of the bar stools. “What’s ya starin’ at?” He noticed a faraway look in Hank’s eyes, a look only a woman could produce. Hank came back to reality a moment later ignoring Jake’s comment. “Anythin’ I can get for ya?”
“How ‘bout a whiskey and you telling me what’s goin’ on?” Hank produced the drink and much to Jake’s dismay kept the latter to himself. Jake knew Hank was one for keeping the soft side of him locked away, but this time it was threatening to surface.
Myra waltzed back over the bar producing an empty shot glass. She stopped long enough to invite Jake to play in the poker match. “Gonna join in on the game?” Jake shot Hank a look, jealously hiding behind those eyes. “Be right there.”
When Myra was out of ear shot, Jake spoke in a low voice. “You can’t do this again Hank. It ain’t good fallin’ in...”
Hank cut Jake off before he could finish his sentence, “Don’t say it.” Jake backed away, going over to join the game. Hank stood there realizing deep down that Jake was right, falling in love with a whore would only get him into trouble, best not to feed those feelings. He spent the remainder of the evening at the bar, watching the poker game unfold and Myra as she flirted with the men playing.
Myra’s sweet seductive voice spoke into the ear of a handsome young man., “Hey there.” He turned to face her, his eyes daring to look where they shouldn’t before settling on her face.
“Ma’am.”
“Mind if I join ya?” Myra started to sit down on the man’s lap, when he suddenly got up. There was a mischievous gleam in his eyes, “I got me a better idea.” He grabbed Myra’s arm, dragging her behind him to the bar where he left coins for Hank and then into one of the back rooms. Hank took the coins in his hand; put them in a safe place before going over to join the game.
“Now, ain’t this much better.” Butch came closer to Myra, watching her shake with nervousness as he gently ran his hand down her face. Myra forced herself to enjoy what was going on, “Yes it is,” truth was she didn’t want to be here.
“You sure are one purdy lady.” Butch smiled, pleased with himself for catching such a pretty one. Myra looked at the floor seeming uncomfortable. Butch lifted Myra’s chin, “Don’t look so sad, Butch ‘ill make it all better.” She wasn’t so sure about that, Butch had an air about him that she didn’t like, there was something about him. Before Myra could contemplate what to do next, Butch lifted her up and dropped her on the bed. She wanted to shout out in protest, but the gleam in his eyes changed and all went black.
Chapter Three
“Michaela! Open up!” Hank shouted into the clinic door. He had no idea what time it was, nor that the town was still asleep. Hank only cared about the lifeless form cradled in his arms. Last night had been a blur of emotions, ones he shouldn’t be having.
Hank hadn’t heard Myra’s cries, if any, nor did he see or hear Butch leave. He’d gone to bed thinking she was safe, until morning came. One of his girls had gone into borrow something from Myra when she found an unlocked door and a lifeless body covered in bruises.
Hank came running when he heard the scream; nothing prepared him from what he saw. Myra laid there, a welt on her head, bruises all over her legs, red marks starting on her neck and moving downward. Anger built up inside him. He wanted very much to find the guy and kill him.
Lily had brought him back to reality, “Hank, you ought a take her to Dr. Quinn.” Hank nodded, moving over to the bed and lifting the lifeless body, treating her like a china doll, and carrying her to the clinic.
Hank yelled and cursed at the door a few more times, before sitting down carefully with Myra nestled in his arms. Tears threatened to form. This couldn’t be happening, not to him.
****
Michaela had fallen asleep in the middle of a medical textbook. She’d been reading about Dorothy’s condition, trying to make sense of it all. The candles around her had long gone out and their trails of smoke had disappeared. Matthew, Colleen, and Brian left for town after finding Dr. Mike fast asleep in the rocking chair.
Brian was eager to see if Mr. Bray had any new candy in the jars to taste. He was a regular candy customer and each time he entered, Mr. Bray always knew what he was after. Colleen would open the clinic for Dr. Mike, rather than going directly to school. She hated to miss a day of learning, but there was no telling when Dr. Mike would arrive in town. Her patients were important and she would want them looked after. Matthew kept his business to himself as he drove Colleen and Brian into town. He wanted to see Ingrid and try to find work to pay for the house he wanted to build.
Michaela awoke to a knock on the door. She opened her eyes, looking around the room only to find herself in the same place she’d been last night. The book still lay on her lap, which she then set down on the floor to go answer the door.
“I’m coming,” Michaela called when she heard the knock again. She opened the door to find Sully standing there. “Mornin’ Michaela.”
Michaela looked a bit confused wondering what Sully was doing out here. “Good morning, what brings you out here?” Sully gave her a puzzled look, “Came to see ya.” Michaela smiled and tried to hide her blushing cheeks by staring at the floor. “I suppose I should have known that.”
“Why don’t we get some tea at Grace’s, then we can go walkin’.” Michaela hesitated a moment, she loved Sully but being alone with him brought out those feelings she wasn’t sure of yet. “I’m afraid that’s not possible. I really should get to the clinic.”
“It would give us another chance to be together.” Sully interjected before Michaela could give him another excuse.
Michaela opened her mouth to say something else but the way Sully was looking at her made her knees weak. She couldn't say no to those deep blue eyes and handsome face.
****
Hank awoke at the first noise he heard, cursing himself for even sleeping. Getting up was not a possibility either, with Myra still unconscious. He would just have to wait.
The wagon stopped in front of the clinic, Matthew noticed Hank’s distraught face and Myra’s limp body, “What happened?” Matthew climbed down and standing on the porch. “Is she ok?” Colleen asked, coming up right behind Matthew.
“I was hopin’ ya could tell me that.”
“Bring her inside.” Hank wasted no time in getting Myra on the examining table; he wanted very much to know if she would be ok. “How’d this happen?” Colleen saw the hesitation in Hank’s face before he spoke. “The customer she was with last night did this. Found her this morning just as you see her now.”
“Has she been conscious at all?” Hank shook his head. This was not a good sign at all, Colleen thought to herself. She wished Dr. Mike was there with Sully going through a similar incident; only Myra’s didn’t look to be as bad.
“I’m going to need to put a cold compress on her head. That welt it gettin’ awful big. She’s gonna need examined too.”
“You can save her right?” Hank looked to Colleen for reassurance. Without Dr. Mike, Colleen was his best hope right now.
“I’ll do everything I can.” Hank nodded, knowing he shouldn’t doubt Colleen’s abilities. Colleen was worried; she hadn’t seen someone beat so badly since Sully. There could be wounds inside that she couldn’t see.
A cold compress was put on Myra’s forehead,
while Colleen gently prodded for any broken bones. Myra moaned softly, she was
beginning to wake up. Colleen and Hank turned their attention to her, urging
for Myra to wake up. Hank took Myra’s hand in his own, “You gotta wake up,” and
said a silent please in his head.
After a few moments Myra opened her eyes, “Where am I?” It was
clear she didn’t know where she was.
“In the clinic,” Colleen answered staring into Myra’s confused eyes. Myra absorbed Colleen’s answer before speaking again. “Why am I lyin’ here, I ain’t sick am I?” Colleen looked to Hank, gesturing for him to tell her, but he shook his head. The burden would fall on Colleen. “You were hurt real bad. Hank brought ya here.”
“Oh.” There was no registering in her voice that she knew what had happened. It was possible that the hard hit she received on her head might have done more damage than Colleen thought.
****
On the way to lunch, Sully couldn’t help himself, stealing kisses wherever he could. The best part was watching Michaela, who’d promptly give him a look as if to say, “Sully, we’re out in public.”
“Ain’t no one around ta see us.”
“Yes, but...” Sully didn’t give Michaela a chance to finish, as he lifted her feet off the ground, skirts and hair flying through the air. “Sully….” He gave her a playful smirk. Michaela wasn’t quite used to all the “sparkin’” as Sully called it, she preferred talking to all the kissing. Trying to teach Sully to dance had generated the same playful response of wanting to kiss and touch. She wondered if she would every get used to being this way with a man.
“Somethin’ botherin’ ya?”
“No, it’s nothing…really.” Michaela tried to brush off her fears of intimacy, but she noticed Sully’s eyes bearing into her very soul. There was no turning back now; she’d have to tell him. Sully listened to every word Michaela said, “I’ve never given all of myself to anyone before, and it scares me to be so close to someone.” He wasn’t sure what to say; they’d both come a long way allowing their hearts to love again.
Sully wanted to tell her that it was nothing to be afraid of, being close to the ones you loved, but he too knew the pain of losing someone. With his wife and daughter gone, he never dreamed of meeting Michaela. She’d changed everything and he wasn’t about to let her go. He gave Michaela a smile letting her know all would be ok, and put his hand around hers. They were silent during the rest of their walk to Grace’s. Neither sure of what to say.
Michaela and Sully arrived at Grace’s unaware of the events unfolding in the clinic; and doing their best to find a table. Things at the café were busy as usual, lots of customers and Grace bustling around from table to table. Grace waved to them, on her way to deliver a few plates of food to awaiting customers. Shortly after, Sully found a small table near the cooking ovens for them to sit.
Moments later, Grace came over pencil and paper in hand ready to take their orders. “What can I do for ya’ll today?” Grace asked before launching into the featured menu items. “I got meatloaf today, along with wild turkey.”
“Meatloaf.” Michaela and Sully answered in unison. “Comin’ right up.” Grace scribbled on her pad of paper before turning back to wait on more customers.
****
Brian stood outside watching everything that was going on. He hadn’t seen anyone so badly hurt, since Sully, and wondered why someone would do that to Myra. She was a nice lady, and didn’t seem like the type to cause trouble either. Saying a silent prayer, Brian asked that Myra pull through.
Colleen would do her best to save Myra, but Hank didn’t look convinced. Brian wished Dr. Mike was there, she always knew what to do when it came to someone in need. He’d watched her many times already save lives; Myra needed her now.
Brian came around the corner heading towards Grace’s, his tummy was grumbling again. Just as he turned, Dr. Mike and Sully came into full view. “Ma!” Brian called running towards their table.
“Brian, Is something the matter?” Michaela momentarily forgot about the meatloaf she was eating, becoming focused on Brian’s problem at hand.
“It’s Myra; she’s hurt real bad…..Colleen’s takin’ care of her…” Brian replied in the midst of catching his breath.
Before getting up, Michaela looked at Sully as if to say, “I’m sorry.” She hated to run, but Myra needed her. Michaela followed Brian back to the clinic to assess the situation.
Hank’s face washed over in relief when he saw Michaela. Colleen had done a fine job, but with Michaela there he knew Myra was in good hands.
“Dr. Mike, thank goodness you’re here. I done all I could but…..” Colleen said in a rush of words before trailing off.
“But?” Michaela was curious now; walking over to Myra she began her examination, deep in thought. Myra looked to Michaela for reassurance, wishing she knew what was wrong.
“The outside damage is evident, and from the welt on her head, she was probably knocked out.” Looking to Myra with sympathy in her eyes, “Myra, I need you to tell me what happened, can you do that for me?”
Myra’s eyes filled with tears, she had no idea what had happened. The last memory she had was Butch coming towards her with a sly grin. “I’m sorry, I don’t remember.”
“Found her unconscious this mornin’.” Hank chimed in, looking to Michaela with hope in his eyes. Michaela focused back on Myra’s head wound, prodding around near the welt. It was on her forehead, unable to cause any memory loss. With further examination, Michaela found another bruise just behind her left ear. “Her temporal lobes have been hit; they are the ones that control memory. Its no wonder she can’t remember what happened.”
“Will she get better?” Hank was worried now; he didn’t want to see Myra’s memory wiped out. Seeing anything happen to Myra was hard enough, let alone to any of his girls.
“I hope so.” It would only be a matter of time before Myra’s memory would return or be gone forever.
****
Sully wandered back to his lean-to, wanting to be alone. He was getting used to Michaela’s sudden departures to help a patient, yet he never expected one to come in the middle of a date. Courting Michaela had gotten off to an awkward start, both on different pages and not able to agree on much. At times, neither was sure the courtship would survive, but their love for each other was strong and nothing was going to disrupt it. He felt that now things were beginning to slowly settle down, however Michaela still had her hesitations. Sully would try again to get her away from the clinic, which he knew wouldn’t be easy.
****
Hank had agreed to stay with Myra, so Michaela could go home. She looked exhausted. Horace had come by with a letter right before Michaela left, and finding Myra hurt and Hank with her infuriated him. He wanted to be the one staying with Myra, after all they were in love and he cared about her very much.
“Horace, I think you should go back home. There’s no sense in taking your anger out on Hank.” Michaela hadn’t known what came over her, but Horace looked ready to charge, and Myra seemed pleased with Hank staying. Horace then sulked back to the telegraph office mumbling and slamming doors.
Michaela left locking the door behind her, wanting to go home and read a good book, but she knew her heart would not rest till she talked with Sully. Getting up as she did in the middle of lunch wasn’t very polite, and surely he’d understand?
Chapter Four
Laura woke refreshed, rested and ready for a brand new day. Dorothy had been kind enough to give her a room for the night. The shopkeeper protested at first, wanting to run her out on the street, but Dorothy calmed him finding the soft spot. “Oh all right, she can stay.”
“Thank you Loren.” Dorothy leaned over to plant a kiss on his cheek. Laura watched the whole scene before her, wondering if there was something more going on between the shopkeeper and the town editor.
Dorothy led Laura to a room upstairs that had been shut for years. Cobwebs and dust were everywhere. It had taken an hour to get it all clean and ready for its occupant. Laura slept like a baby once her head hit the pillows below. She didn’t wake till the morning sun crept through the curtains. Careful not to wake anyone, Laura tip toed down the wooden stairs and out into the fresh air.
The town had not yet begun to wake up when Laura left the store. Cold, crisp air surrounded her when she opened the door. Robert E’s dog gave her a look, too sleepy to think of barking an alarm. Laura walked down the middle of the street, noticing for the first time, the clinic sign. Had she seen it the other day, she would have known the doctor was a lady. Glancing to the other side she saw the saloon, the memories still fresh of the bar keeper. He hadn’t been the nicest to her since she arrived.
Laura marched into the saloon, fully expecting to see the long haired man behind the bar. Instead she was greeted by a drunken card player and scantly dressed woman at his side. There wasn’t much to leave the imagination as Laura turned to look in their direction.
“Hey little lady. Gotta place for ya right here.” Laura turned away not seeing the man’s hand on his open leg. She didn’t want any part of him, nor did she want to be near one of “those women.”
“No, thank you. I’m looking for….” Laura trailed off, as the man reached out and grabbed her arm. “Let me go.” Squirming, Laura tried to free herself, but the man only tightened his grip.
****
Horace, first chance he got, marched over to the clinic wanting to see Myra. Neither Michaela nor Hank had told him much of what happened. As far as he could tell, Myra was badly beaten and lucky to be alive. Lifting his hand, Horace made a fist and knocked loudly on the door.
Hank heard the knock, but didn’t make any efforts to move. Maybe Michaela was downstairs and would let in the patient outside. He didn’t want to be bothered. Last night had been rough, Myra in and out of memories past and present. Some of her mumbling didn’t make sense, yet he was glad she knew who she was and recognized those around her.
Hearing the knock again, Hank reluctantly made his way downstairs. A tall frame stood in the door, Horace. Hank would have loved to leave him standing there knocking, but even that would get bothersome.
“Took ya long enough.” Horace shot Hank a look, letting him know he wasn’t happy. Hank grabbed Horace by the shirt, “Calm down, Horace. Ain’t nuttin ta get all worked up about.” When Hank let go, Horace started for the stairs, still angry at Hank for delaying him.
Myra lay in bed sleeping peacefully, unaware that Horace had entered the room and that Hank was right behind him. Horace found a chair and set it right next to the bed, his eyes never leaving Myra. “Horace, I think there’s sumthin’ you oughta know.”
“What’s that?” Horace spat, wishing Hank would just leave.
“Myra’s sufferin’ from a slight memory loss. She was with a customer yesterday and he beat her. One a the places he hit, affected her memory.” Horace’s face went from anger to fear. “You ain’t sayin’ she don’t remember us do ya?”
“No, all I’m sayin’ is that she don’t remember what happened to her.”
****
Laura picked herself up off the saloon floor, facing the man, a cold look in her eyes. “Don’t ya know it ain’t polite to hit a lady?”
“A lady? The only lady I sees is the one that’s over there.” He tried to point to the scantly clad woman to his left, but succeeded in only stumbling backwards.
“She ain’t no lady.” Laura stepped up closer to the man, “I’m the only lady in here.”
“Oh? You both are mighty purdy, sure would like to…” Laura didn’t let him finish, as her hand reached out and hit him hard.
Dorothy and Loren were both up when Laura returned to the store. Loren was busy taking inventory, while Dorothy was back to printing the paper. Laura noticed that Dorothy didn’t look much better than she did yesterday. Apparently she didn’t always follow doctor’s orders, to Laura’s way of thinking.
“Here, you let me do that. You look like you need a rest.”
“I’m doing just fine…” Dorothy insisted before another hot flash took over in which Laura was right there to catch her. “I think you’d better sit down.” Dorothy nodded in agreement unable to fight the way she was feeling. These ‘hot flashes’ as Michaela called them, seemed to be happening at least once a day.
“She should be in bed.” Loren set down his pencil, going over to Dorothy and offering her his hand. Laura chimed in, “He’s right.”
Dorothy looked at Loren’s outstretched hand, “I suppose you’d stand there till I went to bed.” Loren nodded, not about to move until Dorothy was where she should be. Reluctantly, Dorothy got up and made her way upstairs to bed. Loren followed, close behind in case she collapsed.
Laura set to work on the paper, finishing what Dorothy had tried to start. She had an easier time with the press today, but still managed to get ink all over her clothes. By the end of the day, Laura had near fifty copies of the Gazette printed. She hoped that would be enough. How Dorothy managed it all was beyond Laura.
****
“Butch! No! Please don’t hurt me!” Myra screamed, sitting up straight in bed, her eyes flying open, arms flaying about in the air.
Horace was shocked to near tears, and did his best to calm Myra down. “Myra, honey, it’s me Horace.” His words were lost as Myra continued to fight.
“No, leave me alone!” Myra shouted before falling back on the pillows into a peaceful slumber.
“She don’t mean that do she?” Horace asked a troubled, hurt look in his eyes. Hank secretly wished it was true, he never cared much for Horace. “No, she’s probably just relivin’ a memory in her sleep.” Horace nodded then asked a moment later, “Who’s the Butch fella?”
“Dunno, but I’d lke to take care a him.” Hank figured Butch must have been the man that hurt Myra. The whole town knew Hank didn’t like customers hurting his girls. With Myra in her state of mind, the culprit ought to be found and brought to justice.
“I’m gonna go find him.” Horace got up and made for the door. Hank stopped him, “Not so fast, It’d be best if ya stayed put, listenin’ for any telegrams that might come through.
“Get outta my way Hank.”
“It won’t do no good going after a man angry.” Horace brushed past Hank, ignoring his words of warning.
Horace didn’t waste any time in packing his things together, wanting to get going as soon as possible. Myra meant the world to him, and he vowed to find the man that hurt her. Before Horace could mount his horse to leave, Hank came running up, out of breathe.
“Don’t do this.”
“I got to, so get outta my way.”
Hank refused to move, he wasn’t going to allow Horace to run after the man who hurt Myra. After all, Hank felt it his responsibility to find the man himself, not Horace.
“I’m not gonna let ya do this, she’s my girl.” As soon as the words were out, Hank regretted saying them, feeling a fist hit him in the eye. Hank followed introducing his fist to Horace’s lip. The fight went on till Jake came along to break it up.
****
Michaela did her best to follow Sully’s tracks, but with night closing in, visibility wasn’t good, twice she’d broken sticks, and nearly fell. Her empty stomach didn’t help either; she hadn’t eaten anything since lunch. But Michaela wasn’t going to give up, she had to find Sully. Her will and determination was strong, the question now was, would she find him?
Sully sat under the stars, sipping a hot cup of tea. The air had turned cold quickly; luckily Sully had plenty of warm blankets. Wolf was by his side, curled up next to the fire. The flames licked the air, dancing under the curls of smoke that disappeared into the night. Listening to the creatures of the night, Sully heard the owls hooting to each other, the crickets chirping and the sound of sticks breaking.
Michaela spotted a lone figure, near a flickering fire. She couldn’t quite make out who it was and decided to get a better look. Unfortunately, the stick she stepped on snapped, making a loud noise. Frozen in fear, Michaela wanted to run looking about her for any direction she might take, until she saw the figure emerge.
Sully set his tea cup down, got up slowly and made his way towards the noise. The closer he got, Sully realized it wasn’t an animal who snapped the stick. “Michaela?” Sully called in a near whisper. A moment of silence passed before Michaela found her feet leading her straight into Sully’s arms.
“What are ya doin’ out here?” Sully asked breaking the embrace. “Ya put urself in danger comin’ out this way.”
“I wanted to apologize for earlier.”
“Earlier?”
“Leaving in the middle of our lunch together.”
“Michaela, don’t you go worrin’ about that. Myra needed ya, and sides I understand.”
“I should have known. Yet I came all the way out here just….” Sully didn’t let Michaela finish, planting a gentle kiss on her lips.
“Now that ya came all the way out here, might as well stay.” Michaela was beginning to grow tired and didn’t protest to Sully’s suggestion, letting him lead her next to the fire.
****
Myra slept peacefully that night, unaware that her attacker was still at large. Butch had been running from the law for month’s now, hurting women along the way. Surprise had crossed Butch’s face when he found that Colorado Springs didn’t have his wanted poster up. He also heard his sister was out west and wanted to find her. “She was probably making friends in some town, waiting for her ole bro to show up”, Butch thought to himself.
Butch moved quietly through the dark woods, not wanting to disturb any nightly creatures. He’d nearly had a run in with a bear back in Kansas. The bear had looked ready to rip him in pieces, if it hadn’t been for al his dishes falling down. The noise scared the bear so much he took of running.
Off in the distance, Butch spotted the warm glow of a fire. “Food,” he thought, maybe this was his lucky day. Butch hadn’t eaten much the past few days. Moving closer, his stomach growled. “Damnit,” Butch cursed under his breath, hoping no one had heard. Butch moved closer to the fire, being more careful now as to where he stepped. Two figures began to appear illuminated by the firelight, one looked like a savage, and he could smell the other; a woman. He smiled at the thought of finding a woman, just thinking of what he would love to do.
Sully turned his head, searching for the cause of the noise. Something or someone was indeed out there. Rather than trouble Michaela, Sully brushed the whole thing off as nothing. He would worry about the noise later. However, Michaela didn’t seem convinced, she knew something was bothering Sully. She was puzzled as to why he wasn’t telling her what was going on.
“Sully?”
“Ya.”
“What’s bothering you?”
“Nothing.”
“I don’t believe that. Something is…”
“Don’t ya trust me? Ain’t nuttin’ botherin’ me.”
“Course I do, it’s just….” Sully didn’t let Michaela finish, silencing her with a kiss, not even noticing the figure towering above them.