PROLOGUE

It was a dismal grey day in Denver.  The rain had started at dawn and it was now early afternoon with still no let up from the constant downpour in sight.  The gloom hung over the city like a smothering blanket. 

Daisy Cooper turned her head and watched the rain as it ran in uneven streams down the windows of her room.  She was propped up and comfortably resting on huge billowy pillows and covered by fresh linens that smelt of carbolic and soda.  She felt warm and comforted to be indoors on such a day as this though she wore a look of concern on her small delicate features.  She turned back to the letter she’d been reading, smiling again at the uneven childish scribble, her fingers stroking each word as she read them for the hundredth time.  The letter had become a precious possession over the couple weeks she had been in Denver as it was her only link to home.  ‘Home’ - oh how she longed to be there. 

She read…”Aunt Daisy, I’m bein’ real good and helping Slim and Jess with the chores.  I am keepin’ my room real clean and I wash every day just like you taught me.  Please come home soon.  I miss your pie and I miss you.  Love, Mike.” 

Then her eyes moved to the familiar writing of the post-script. 

“Know that our prayers and thoughts are with you.  We love you and miss you and wish we could be there with you.  Hurry home to us.  All our love - Slim and Jess.” 

Daisy refolded the letter. “Oh how I miss you all and our dear home,” she spoke and held the letter close to her heart.  She closed her eyes picturing the small house with its barns and corrals nestled against the hillside.  She could almost hear the chickens as they clucked about in the yard, searching for that elusive grain of corn they may have missed.  The clatter of the stage as it rolled into the yard and Mose shouting his usual greeting.  She breathed deeply as the smell of honeysuckle wafted about her and she felt the movement of the rocker on the porch in the late evening as she would sit and watch the spectacular sky turn from blues to reds then to yellows and oranges as the sun set behind the hills.  Tears flowed freely down her cheeks as the memories of her beloved home filled every fibre of her being.  Would she ever see it or her beloved boys again?

FAMILY - THE TIES THAT BIND

By Moira 

Chapter One 

It had all begun several weeks earlier. 

Daisy sat on the porch shucking peas for supper in the late afternoon sun.  She looked up as shouts of laughter drifted across the yard from the corral.  Slim and Jess, with the help of Jeb Miller, had finished the annual wild horse round-up a few days previous to fill the regular army order for re-mounts that Slim and Jess had been fortunate to obtain a couple of years back. 

Over the years, Slim and Jess had earned a good reputation for providing sound, well broken horses, with many of the townsfolk and other ranchers coming to them either to purchase or just for some good advice.  Hearing of this, the army had approached them when looking for a new supplier of good cavalry horses. 

“There’s nothing Jess doesn’t know about or can’t do when it comes to horses,” Slim had once told Daisy.  “Doesn’t matter how stubborn or ornery the horse, Jess can gentle it.” 

Daisy smiled at the activity in the corral as she watched with concerned interest.  The boys had been working with the horses since sun up and had only stopped to change stage teams as required. 

“Go on Jess, stick with her,” Jeb Miller encouraged from atop the corral fence.  “Think Jess has met his match with this one, Slim,” he continued as Slim maneuvered Alamo to where Jeb sat. 

“Not met a horse yet that Jess couldn’t gentle, Jeb.”  Slim however did have his concerns about this big bay mare.  She had already tossed Jess off several times but he wouldn’t give up.  Each time he climbed firmly aboard for the next round of bone shaking bucks and kicks.  Jess talked to her quietly while he rubbed her neck with a large gentle hand as he re-mounted. 

The mare was certainly giving Jess some trouble.  She continued her onslaught of twister- like motions as she bucked and reared, trying to dislodge this pesky intruder from her back.  Jess was having none of it and kept his grip firm while trying to keep his balance.  Then, just as he thought he was winning the long battle, she turned, violently bucking as she went, and sent Jess flying over her head.  Jess cried out as he landed with a resounding thud in a cloud of dust, his right leg bent at an ugly angle beneath him. 

Slim reacted and quickly moved Alamo between Jess and the whirling dervish, preventing flying hooves from injuring his partner any further.  Jess pulled himself to his feet and staggered to the fence, climbing as quickly as his leg would allow.  Once he saw that Slim had the troublesome mare by the halter and well under control, he gingerly climbed back down to the corral floor. 

“Seems like you’ve found another female who don’t want to be tamed, Jess!” Jeb laughed from his perch. 

Jess brushed the dust from his clothes yet again and walked stiffly towards Slim and the mare.  He had strained his right leg in that last fall and it was giving him some pain although he wasn’t going to let Slim or Jeb see it.  But it was too late. Slim had seen both the limp and the pained expression fleet across his partner’s face, though he was doing his best to hide it.  Jess had taken out a red bandana from the back pocket of his jeans and wiped away the beads of perspiration that were running down his neck and face.  Stuffing the bandana back into his pocket, he pulled his hat firmly back on his head ready to go again. 

“Enough’s enough, Jess.  Let’s try this lady again another day,” Slim said sternly as he dismounted and handed Jeb Alamo’s reins but still kept a firm hold on the mare’s halter. 

“I’m fine, Slim.  You just hold’er,” Jess told him as he reached for the halter and placed his hand on the mare’s neck. 

Slim put a large hand on his partner’s.  “No, Jess you’ve done more than enough for one day.” 

But Jess wasn’t about to give in.  “I’m fine, Slim. Now let go.” 

Jess was stubborn to the last, but Slim could be just as stubborn when the need warranted it.  He put his arm across Jess’ chest grabbing his far shoulder to prevent him from mounting. 

“I said no, Jess.  Jeb, come take this dad-burned mare and put her back with the others.  I’m going to help Jess to the house.” 

“Slim just what ya playing at?  I ain’t going back to the house until I’ve shown this little lady how to act like a lady.  Now get outta my way,” Jess said defiantly as he tried to push Slim aside. 

Jeb jumped down from the fence and tied Alamo to it, then approached his two friends.  He could see that sparks were going to fly and he wanted to be well out of range when they did. 

Jess turned on Jeb.  “Jeb you touch that halter and I’ll...” 

“You’ll what, Jess?”  Jeb smiled at his friend.  “Slim’s right. You’ve done plenty for one day.” 

As Slim handed Jeb the halter and had to restrain Jess from doing something he’d regret, Jess gave him a hard shove and Slim staggered back to hold on to his footing but he wasn’t going to back down.  He boldly stepped forward blocking Jess’ pursuit of Jeb and the mare. 

“Okay, Jess. You say you’re fine,” Slim’s voice was harsh and questioning, “let me see you walk over to the fence.” 

Jess’ eyes blazed as he turned and strode toward the fence but on the fifth stride his right leg buckled under him and Jess once again found himself face down in the dirt. 

Daisy, having heard the raised angry voices, had put aside the peas and was standing on the porch step.  As Jess fell, her hand went to her mouth and she hurried toward the corral.  Jess’ hat lay on the ground and Daisy picked it up as she approached the fence.  Jess struggled to his knees, grabbed two handfuls of dirt, and threw them back into the ground in frustration. 

“Damn it!” he shouted, angry that Slim was right, as usual.  Then he saw two small feet and the hem of a floral skirt through the fence. 

“Jess,” a sweet voice calmly called to him.  Jess looked up, his eyes still ablaze, and saw dear sweet Daisy standing there breathless and holding his hat.  “Jess, do as you’re told.  You can hardly stand let alone walk. Now stop being so mule-headed and let Slim help you.”  Her tone was gentle but firm and Jess knew he couldn’t argue further and win, not with Daisy anyway; no man could when she set her mind to something. 

Jess blew out a long breath and sat back on his heels, his anger subsiding.  As he felt two firm hands under his arms and was hoisted back to his feet, he made no effort to fight back accepting the assistance gratefully.  It was time to admit defeat, well at least for today anyway. 

“Don’t know who’s more ornery, you or that mare?”  Slim was brushing the dust from Jess’ battered body as he spoke.  “Now will you come peaceably or am I going to be forced to carry you?”  

Jess tried a step but his right leg just wouldn’t hold him. This time however, Slim was there to catch him.  Jess looked at his partner as a strong arm was wrapped around his waist.  “Sorry, Slim,” Jess said, now humbled into submission. 

 “That’s okay, Pard,” Slim smiled at his friend.  “Now let’s get you inside and see to that leg.  Probably just a bad sprain so a good massage with some liniment should put it to rights.  But you’ll probably have to rest it for a couple of days.  No more riding any wild ladies for you this week!”  

The two men chuckled. 

Jess moved gingerly trying not to put any weight on his leg as he and Slim gradually made their way toward the fence.  They were concentrating so intently on Jess’ leg that neither of them had noticed Daisy and the distress she was in.  She had a hand on her chest and was finding it hard to catch her breath.  Jess grabbed hold of a fence rail to steady himself as Slim reached up to unhook the gate.  As Jess stood waiting for Slim he caught sight of Daisy’s distress. 

“Daisy!” Jess cried out in alarm. 

Slim turned sharply and instantly saw the reason for Jess’ outcry. He rushed through the gate and was quickly by Daisy’s side. 

“Daisy you okay? What’s wrong?” 

“I’m alright, Slim.  Just give me a minute to catch my breath.  Shouldn’t be running at my age - but when I saw Jess fall…”  She patted Slim’s arm and smiled assuredly at him. 

All this time, Jess had been steadily making his way to where Daisy was standing.  He was holding onto the fence as he hobbled along.  “Daisy, Daisy - are you alright?” His own pain forgotten, he was concerned now only for her. 

“Just a little out of breath that’s all, not as young as I used to be you know,” she paused, her kind face full of concern for him.  “Now, Slim, you bring Jess along to the house and I’ll get the liniment.”  With that, she hurried in the direction of the house as if nothing had occurred. 

Slim turned to Jess and placed the supportive arm back around his partner, Jess wrapping his around Slim, and they began the painful journey back to the house.  They looked at one another acknowledging that they had both seen how pale Daisy went and the blueness around her lips. 

“Do you think she’s really okay, Slim?” 

“If she isn’t, she’s not about to tell us, Jess.  Maybe she was just out of breath because she ran so quickly from the porch.  She is right about one thing - she isn’t getting any younger and shouldn’t be doing things like running.  We’ll just have to keep an eye on her.”  Slim turned his head at the familiar sound in the distance and saw the afternoon stage coursing its way down the hill. 

“Stage is coming.  Mose is certainly pushing them along - must be someone important on board.”  By now they were at the porch.  “Jess, will you be okay if I sit you here on the porch just while I change the team?” 

“Just sit me down, Slim.  Mike will be on the stage coming back from school.  He can give you a hand.”  Slim lowered Jess into a chair and called through the open door to Daisy that the stage was in. 

Daisy came out of the house and stood on the porch wiping her hands on her apron.  As he looked at her out of the corner of his eye, he noted that she looked better now.  Her cheeks were full of their usual rosy glow but he was still worried that there was more to this incident.  In fact, he was sure of it. 

The stage thundered into the yard and the chickens squawked and scuttled out of the way to avoid the flying hooves as Daisy went back inside to see to the coffee. 

“Howdy, Slim, got some passengers onboard looking for ya,” Mose yelled as he climbed down and moved to open the stage door. 

“Passengers looking for me, Mose?” Slim queried. 

“Well, Miss Daisy actually,” Mose opened the door and Mike leapt out fresh from a day at school and obviously full of energy and excitement. 

“Hi, Mike, have a good day at school?” Slim asked but Mike never even gave him a glance as he rushed to the house with a casual “Hey” to Jess, who looked at Slim with raised eyebrows at the youngster’s disinterest in them both. 

“Daisy, Daisy!” Mike exclaimed as he ran into the house.  “You’ll never guess who’s on the stage to see you!” 

Daisy came out of the kitchen as Mike almost knocked the cups she was carrying out of her hands.  “Mike what have we told you about running in the house?” she scolded putting the cups safely on the table. 

“But, Aunt Daisy, you’ll never guess who’s on the stage!” Mike grabbed her hand and pulled her out to the porch just as Slim assisted a very elegant elderly lady down from the coach.  She wore a blue traveling dress festooned with cream flowers and a small, feathered hat was perched securely on her head.  She smiled warmly as she saw Daisy, and put her hand out in greeting as she walked towards her. 

“My dear sister, I’m here at last.” 

Chapter Two 

“Sister!” Slim exclaimed, as he looked first at Daisy and then at Jess, who just shrugged his shoulders in disbelief. 

Daisy’s eyes were wide with surprise.  “Rebecca,” Daisy stepped forward to kiss her sister gently on each cheek then as she glanced over the elegant shoulder, “Lucy too,” as a lovely young girl of about nineteen was handed down by Slim. 

“Oh, that’s not all, my dear. I’ve brought your two favorite boys with me.”  As Rebecca spoke two heads appeared in the coach windows.   They looked tired and bedraggled and obviously not at all impressed with their aunt or their surroundings. 

Slim stood back before being trampled by the young men as they exited the coach. 

“James! William!” Daisy exclaimed as they kissed her more from duty than desire. 

“Aunt Daisy,” they said politely removing their hats.  “Get our luggage down - there’s a good fellow,” one of the young gentlemen instructed and flippantly waved his hand towards the coach as he spoke to a somewhat bewildered Slim. 

“Luggage?” Slim inquired as he continued, “you plannin’ on stayin’?” Slim had moved to the porch step and stood with his hands on his hips, a firm hard expression on his usually gentle features. 

Daisy stepped down off the porch and touched Slim’s arm in gentle recognition of his bewilderment.  “Slim, this is my sister Rebecca and her daughter Lucy.” Rebecca and Slim shook hands as Lucy watched on, a shy smile on her ruby lips for this tall blonde Adonis who stood before her.  “These two young rascals are my nephews, James and William.” Daisy beckoned them forward but both simply nodded a brief acknowledgement to Slim and stood with their hands in their pockets. 

The introductions were interrupted by a rather disgruntled growl from Mose.  “Anyone besides me working around here today?” he asked. 

“Sorry, Mose,” Slim apologized as he turned and headed for the corral and the new team. 

Daisy turned to Rebecca.  “Now, Rebecca, I don’t know if it will be alright for you to stay.  After all, this is Slim and Jess’ home and I don’t think…” 

“It’ll be okay for tonight, Daisy,” a soft deep voice said from the shadows of the porch. 

Everyone turned to see who had spoken.  Seated in the shade of the porch nobody had noticed him.  Through all of the surprise arrivals and greetings, Jess, forgotten until now, had sat sore and silent as he watched the reunion unfold before him.  He had taken note of each member of the party and had sized each one of them up.  His conclusion?  He disliked each and every one of them. 

“Oh, Jess.  What with all this excitement,” Daisy quickly stepped back onto the porch her face again full of concern.  “Are you alright dear?  We should get you inside.”  Her hand stroked his dark hair and forehead and came to rest on his shoulder. 

“I’ll be fine, Daisy. Slim will help me inside when he’s finished with the stage.” 

Rebecca having followed her sister stood close behind her.  “Aren’t you going to introduce us, Daisy?” she asked looking down at Jess taking note of his dusty and dishevelled condition.  ‘How dare my sister, a lady, be so openly affectionate with this young rough’un?  Obviously, living out west has turned her mind.  Thank goodness I arrived when I did.  This definite lack of decorum must be nipped in the bud.’ 

“Rebecca, this is Jess Harper, Slim’s partner.”  Daisy squeezed Jess’ shoulder and smiled proudly at Jess.  However when her sister gave no greeting, she turned her head towards Rebecca and met the disapproving stare. 

“Slim’s partner. How interesting,” and with that she gave Jess the merest of nods and turned back to her sister.  “So Daisy, as it appears, it will be alright for us to stay. Perhaps Mr. Harper would get our luggage.  I’d like to freshen up and change before dinner.” 

Her sister had not changed one bit, Daisy thought and was emphatic in her reply. 

“Jess just had a bad fall from a wild horse he was breaking.  James and William, climb up and get the luggage down.  Then we will have to sort out the sleeping arrangements for tonight.  We don’t have much room so we will have to make arrangements to get you to the hotel in town in the morning.” 

“But Daisy, how can we have a proper visit if we’re stuck in some grubby little back water hotel.”  Rebecca said disagreeably and looked most put out. 

The whole affair was now agitating Daisy. 

“Rebecca, you can’t just turn up unannounced and expect to stay.  I’ve told you we have very little room and this is a working ranch so I wouldn’t be able to spend much time with you anyway.  You would be much more comfortable at the hotel and Laramie is not some little back water - it’s a fast growing town.”  Daisy was again feeling somewhat short of breath as her frustration with her sister grew and she placed her hand on her chest again, trying to calm herself.  “You haven’t changed one bit have you? You are still self-centered and demanding to get your own way.  Well you’re not in Baltimore and this is not your home- it’s the boys’ and I won’t have you upsetting the smooth running of this ranch.” 

The silence was deafening. 

“So, Mother,” James approached the sisters and continued, “are we staying or not?” 

Jess had sat silent as he watched the proceedings. Taking note of Rebecca and her obvious disapproval of Daisy, but especially he took note of Daisy and the fact that she was having problems with her breathing again which alarmed him greatly.  ‘There is something wrong I just know it.’ Jess though, ‘ I will have to speak with Slim when we’re alone tonight.’  

He had seen and heard enough.  “You’re staying!” he shouted decidedly towards the young man.  “For tonight anyway.  Now get the luggage like you were told or don’t you heed your elders where you come from?”  His voice was probably sharper than he had intended but his leg was hurting and all he wanted was to lie down.  At any rate, his tone certainly got the two young men to move.

Slim and Mose had finished hitching the fresh team and Mose was helping James with the last of the bags, which now formed a large neat pile by the porch step. 

Slim took note of the luggage pile and looked at Daisy.  “They stayin’ then?” 

“Jess said we could manage just for tonight, if that’s alright with you, Slim,” Daisy said, stepping off the porch looking gently up to him. 

“Of course it’s alright, Daisy.” Slim was still wondering where they would put them all to sleep. But knowing Daisy, she had probably got that all figured out by now. 

“Wonderful!” Rebecca said clapping her hands.  “Now let’s get inside. This heat is just too unbearable.” With that, she strolled into the house as if she owned the place, gently fanning herself with her hands and followed closely by Lucy and her two sons. 

Daisy started to follow but Slim took her by the hand holding her back for a moment. 

“Is she always like this?” he asked as they slowly followed the entourage into the house. 

Daisy smiled shaking her head.  “I’m afraid so, ever since she married and settled in Baltimore.  Her late husband was a banker.” 

“Oh, Slim, would you be a dear and bring in the luggage,” Rebecca had settled herself in Jess’ rocker with Lucy gently fanning her with a lace handkerchief.  James and William sat at the table with no obvious signs that they were prepared to assist. 

“Luggage,” Slim said in quiet exasperation.  Daisy squeezed his arm with an I’m-sorry look on her gentle features. 

Slim walked back out onto the porch and stood letting out a long exasperated breath as he stared at the oversized pile of luggage.  He scratched his head as he approached the pile.  “Why is it that women need so much stuff when they travel and then only use half of it,” he muttered under his breath as he filled his hands and arms with the bags. 

“Wanna hand there, Slim?”  Slim jumped, dropped the bags he held and fell into the pile of trunks spewing bags and boxes in all directions. 

“Jess!” he exclaimed, his heart still pounding as he turned to look at his forgotten partner. 

Jess grimaced as he shifted his weight in the chair and rubbed his outstretched leg. 

“Oh, Jess!  I’m sorry, Pard.”  Luggage forgotten, Slim was by Jess’ side in a flash helping him up out of the chair.  Jess put his arm around Slim’s shoulders to support himself as Slim slipped his strong arm round Jess’s lithe lean waist and very gradually they entered the house. 

“Goodness, Jess! I’d completely forgotten.  I’ll get the liniment, Slim,” Daisy said as she bustled into the kitchen and returned almost immediately with a large brown glass bottle and some fresh towels. 

“Mike will you open the door for me please?” Slim gestured towards the bedroom. 

Mike leapt from his seat on the hearth as he saw Jess being almost carried in by Slim and ran to open the door.  Jess could see the boy’s worry and ruffled Mike’s hair with his free hand. 

“No big thing, Tiger, just had a slight disagreement with one of the mustangs for the army.” 

“Slim you see to our guests. I’ll get Jess settled in bed and give him a good massage,” Daisy said as she followed them into the bedroom. 

“Daisy Cooper!” exclaimed Rebecca rising out of her seat. 

Daisy turned on her sister.  “We do our own doctoring out here when we can, Rebecca,” she said sharply.  “Jess has been breaking in wild horses all day.  He’s sore and bruised and has badly strained his leg and he needs a good warm massage with some liniment.  Otherwise his muscles will seize and he’ll be stiff and in pain for days.”  Daisy glared at her sister daring her to say anymore. 

Jess quietly asked Slim to stop and they turned in the doorway. Jess put a supportive hand on Daisy’s shoulder and gave it a comforting squeeze. 

“Daisy, you spend time with your family, Slim might not have the gentlest hands in the world but I can bear it just this once.”  He winked at her as Slim poked him fondly in the ribs.  “Ouch, Pard, I have enough bruises without you addin’ to ‘em?” 

“Just for that I won’t warm my hands first.  Now let’s get you to bed, Jess.” 

Jess smiled at his friend and patted him on the back as they went into their room.

Slim carefully sat Jess on the first bunk and took the liniment and towels from Daisy and closed the door behind her as she went back into the living-room. 

About an hour later Slim emerged leaving the door slightly ajar so that they could hear if Jess called out.  He found the living-room empty except for Mike who was doing his homework at the table.  Daisy was in the kitchen busy with supper preparations, there now being four extra mouths to feed. 

Slim put the towels into the laundry bucket and returned the liniment to its place on the shelf above the water pump.  Daisy was mumbling away to herself as she hurriedly peeled extra vegetables and checked the pot-roast.  Slim noticed that she was acting quite erratic and not her usual self at all.  Her sister’s sudden and unexpected arrival was obviously the cause.  Slim came up behind her and put his arms around her waist giving her a firm hug of reassurance. 

“Calm down, Daisy, everything will be fine,” he said trying to comfort her. 

As Daisy pulled away from him and turned to face him, her face was flushed.  “Everything won’t be fine.  She’ll find fault with every little thing; you just wait and see.  You’ve already seen how she can be.  I should’ve tended to Jess, Slim, and you’ve still got the evening chores to do and, Jess’ too.” She was becoming more flustered and out of breath with each word. 

Slim took her by the shoulders and looked calmly into her eyes. She had obviously been crying.  “Slow down, it’s not the first time and it won’t be the last that one of us has had to do the other’s chores.  Now just take a deep breath and relax.  Mike can come and help me.”  Slim’s voice was calm and soothing as he continued, “Now where is everyone? You didn’t do anything rash like shoot the lot of them did you?” he chuckled in an effort to lighten her mood. 

Slim and Jess could always blow away those dark clouds of uncertainty for her and he knew that he had been successful in doing so once again as he saw the familiar gleam come back into her eyes. 

“Course not,” Daisy said giving Slim a gentle slap on the wrist, her gentle features now resembling the Daisy he knew, her eyes smiling back at him. 

“So where is everyone?” Slim asked as he pinched a piece of raw carrot from the vegetable pile that she had been preparing. 

“Well,” began Daisy.  “I’ve put James and William in the bunkhouse.  Rebecca and Lucy will have my room.”  She could see the look on Slim’s face and beat him to the retort, “and no - she didn’t like it or the fact the she would have to share.”  Daisy put her nose in the air in an imitation of her sister, “not what I am accustomed to at all but I suppose it will have to do.” 

“Daisy you rascal,” Slim was glad to see the old Daisy.  “So where will you sleep?” 

“I’ll sleep in the spare bed in Mike’s room.  So you see, we did have just enough room and without disturbing you and Jess.  You boys work so hard I didn’t want this sudden invasion to disrupt your privacy or sleeping arrangements, especially with Jess being hurt.” 

“Always thinking of others,” Slim kissed her gently on the cheek.  “Thank you, Daisy.  I know Jess will appreciate it.” 

“How is Jess?” she asked as she added the vegetables to the pot-roast. 

“Very sore and quite subdued now, especially since I did what I threatened to do.”  Daisy looked at him puzzled.  “I didn’t warm my hands.” Slim gave a soft chuckle as he recalled Jess almost falling off the bunk as he had poured cold liniment onto his backside and then, to add insult to injury, had used his freshly washed and still cold hands to apply the soothing liniment.  But after the initial shock was over, Jess had been grateful for the relaxing massage. Slim went on to tell her that he and Jess had decided it would be a good idea for Jess to take a couple of days to rest and continue the horse training once his leg was healed.  “He’s going to be sore for a few days but Jeb and I will have finished breaking most of the horses by then and Jess can use his magic in schooling them.” 

“Slim you are bad.   Poor Jess!” But there was definitely the hint of a smile on her face and she thought of these two strong, young men who worked side by side from dawn till dusk in all weather and when the work was done, were so full of fun and life - their feelings for each other beyond that of friendship.  The antics these two got up to, she shook her head grateful to be part of such a wonderful family. 

* * * * * * * * * * * * 

Daisy then made up another plate of pot-roast, adding slices of buttered bread and a cup of coffee and placed it all on a tray.  “Everyone just help yourselves while I take this in to Jess.” 

Rebecca glared uncertainly around the table at her children then she looked at Slim and Mike but they both continued to eat and ignored the icy stares although they could feel the coldness.  Rebecca then gingerly helped herself, as did her children, all the while looking from one to the other of their party.  Daisy returned to the table and sat down as Slim poured her a well-deserved cup of coffee. 

“Jess seems fine, Slim, just tired I think.  He says his leg isn’t hurting him much but you know where the painkiller is if he needs some tonight to help him sleep.  He’s determined that you aren’t to touch that darned mare though.  He says he wants to finish what he started.  That boy is stubborn to the last.” 

Slim smiled as he finished his coffee and poured himself another. “You’re right there, Daisy, but I don’t want Jess near that mare again. She has a mean streak in her that I don’t like. I think that little lady will be finding her way back out onto the range again real soon.”  Slim took a sip of his coffee. “Jess isn’t going to like me for it but I don’t want him getting hurt again.  He is worth more to me than one mare for the army.” 

Daisy agreed but as she and Slim exchanged glances they knew that Jess was going to be as mad as a hornet for their making such a decision without consulting him. 

“I’ll tell him tomorrow once he’s had a good night’s sleep,” Slim said as he tensely raised his eyebrows.  In fact it was Slim who wanted the good night’s sleep to prepare himself for the onslaught of argument he would get from his partner.  But it was in Jess’ best interest so he would bear it. 

“You leave Jess to me, Slim.   You have enough to worry about with him being out of action.  He’ll get madder than an angry bull with you but coming from me, well, it might be just easier all round.”  Daisy was adamant in her decision and she could see the relief and gratitude on Slim’s face.  She knew Slim hated it when he and Jess fought. This way she could diffuse Jess somewhat before Slim had to face him. 

“Now,” she said as she pushed her chair back from the table and stood.  “Who wants some apple pie?” 

“Me please,” Mike said as he jumped up his empty plate in his hands as he headed to the kitchen.  “Can I eat mine with Jess?  He must be awful lonesome all by himself.” 

“Course you can, Mike,” Slim replied as he followed Mike into the kitchen his empty plate and several others that were half empty in his hands. 

Daisy brought out a huge deep-dish apple pie and placed it in the middle of the table.  She cut two pieces and put each on a plate along with a fork and gave them to Mike.  “Now walk slowly and when you’ve both finished, you can bring out Jess’ other dirty plate and cup.  He has a tray so you will be able to carry them on that.  Alright, Mike?” 

Mike nodded and eagerly headed towards Slim and Jess’ bedroom. 

Daisy had just finished serving pie to the others when Mike re-appeared at the table carrying the two plates of dessert.  He sat down and began to eat his pie gloomily.  Daisy looked curiously over at Slim who shook his head. 

“Didn’t Jess want his pie?” she asked quietly concerned for she had never known Jess to ever refuse her pie. 

Mike continued to eat, his expression still gloomy. 

“Mike, Daisy asked you a question,” Slim said a little shortly.  Then he thought he would try another approach.  “Didn’t Jess want any company?”  Slim knew Mike had been worried about Jess.  He had noticed how Mike had fidgeted all through supper and then to be allowed to eat dessert with Jess and spend time with him would have reassured Mike that Jess was okay.  The boy still didn’t answer and although Slim was now getting somewhat miffed with him, he still didn’t lose his temper but tried something else instead. 

“Mike, you know, Jess has been working really hard today and his leg is badly strained.  You can’t blame him for not wanting any company tonight, Mike.  Jess is sore and bruised and probably really tired.  Let’s save him a piece of pie for tomorrow shall we?” 

Mike still continued to eat his pie as if he hadn’t heard a word Slim had said.  Slim was not having any more of this kind of behaviour, especially not with Daisy’s family present. 

Slim pushed his chair back and turned to face Mike at the same time pulling Mike’s chair abruptly away from the table.  “Mike I’m talking to you.  Now what’s wrong?  Did Jess say something to upset you?”  Slim asked exasperated by the boy’s silence. 

Mike looked surprised it was obvious that he hadn’t heard a thing. 

“Nothing’s wrong, Slim.  Jess is asleep, that’s all and I wanted to ask him if he would help me with my new school project.  It’s about horses.”  He had been thinking about his project - he hadn’t meant to get Slim mad.  “I’m sorry, Slim.  Can I finish my pie please?” 

“Jess is sleeping?” Slim puzzled. 

Mike nodded.  Slim smiled as he ruffled the boy’s hair.  “You finish your pie, Mike.” 

“Sleeping.” Daisy breathed a sigh of relief as she and Slim exchanged smiles and a soft chuckle to themselves. 

Slim glanced about the table at the cool expressions but he ignored them.  “If you’ll excuse me,” he said cordially as he got to his feet.  “Daisy, I’ll just check on Jess and make sure he’s comfortable.” 

As Slim headed to the bedroom Daisy got up and casually went into the kitchen.  She heated some water and began to clear the supper table of dishes.  Mike helped at her request grumbling as he went back and forth with her.  She filled the bowl with the warm water and added dish soap.  Mike still grumbled as he took a fresh dishtowel and began to dry for her. 

“What’s wrong now, Mike?” she said an obvious note of tension in her voice.  This day had been a disaster and she longed both for it to end and for her bed. 

“Don’t do much to help do they?” he grumbled. 

Daisy smiled.   Her family’s visit certainly was causing a strain on everyone, even young Mike who usually took everything in his young stride. 

“Well, Mike, they’re just not used to having to do things for themselves.  Rebecca has servants at home to things for them,” Daisy answered.  “Now you’ve been a real help this evening but its time you were in bed so run along.  Slim and I will be to tuck you in just a soon as these dishes are done.”  She patted him gently on his backside.  “Don’t forget to be polite and say goodnight to everyone.” 

Mike headed for his room but turned at the door with a quick glance over his shoulder.  “Goodnight,” he said in his most polite voice as he slammed the door behind him. 

* * * * * * * * * * * * 

Slim had found Jess slumped awkwardly forward his chin resting on his chest.  The tray with the plate of half-eaten supper rested precariously on his lap.  Slim smiled as he carefully removed the tray and took the fork out of Jess’ limp fingers.  “Poor guy - so tired you couldn’t even eat,” Slim whispered softly.  He put the tray on the nightstand.  Then he gently supported Jess as he removed the pile of pillows he had placed behind him earlier for support and tossed them on his own bunk.  Jess stirred as Slim slowly lowered him onto his back; deep blue eyes peaked out briefly through long dark lashes. 

“Only me, Jess, you go back to sleep now,” Slim whispered as he pulled the covers up around his partner’s waist. 

Jess winced as he turned on his side seeking his preferred way to sleep and closed his eyes. 

“Night, Pard.” 

Daisy had almost finished the dishes and those that Mike had not dried were stacked neatly in a pile to drain.  Her family sat comfortably unconcerned that she was still at work.  Rebecca and Lucy were doing needlepoint while the two young men sat at the table playing cards.  They all gave Slim the same cool look as he crossed the room to the kitchen giving him the briefest acknowledgement. 

As Slim entered the kitchen he gave a shiver.  Suddenly he didn’t feel welcome in his own home and he didn’t like the feeling but tomorrow would see the end of it.  He handed Daisy the tray. 

Daisy took the tray and gave a sigh.  “Poor, Jess he was too tired even to eat,” she scraped the remains of the meal into the trash bucket and washed the last plate and cup. 

Slim picked up the dish towel and finished drying the remaining clean dishes, cups and cooking pots putting them away as he did.  They worked in silence exchanging smiles and glances as they enjoyed the task and time together.  As they finished, Rebecca and her children appeared from the living room. 

“I am retiring now, Daisy,” Rebecca announced giving her sister a peck on the cheek and followed closely by Lucy disappeared into Daisy’s room.  James and William gave a curt nod to their aunt and headed in the direction of the bunkhouse mumbling under their breath as they went. 

Slim, seeing the look of relief appear on Daisy’s face, put the dishtowel aside and pulled her to him.  “Don’t worry. I’ll have them in town right after breakfast.”  He felt her relax in his embrace.  “Now off you go to bed and I’ll lock up.” 

Removing her apron Daisy headed for Mike’s room and some well needed sleep.  She turned at the bedroom door as Slim locked the front door and checked the windows. 

“She’s my sister, Slim.” 

Slim looked over to her as he reached his own bedroom door.  “I know, Daisy. Sleep well.”   

Chapters 3 and 4