PLAYING WITH FIRE
Chapter Three
Hank couldn't have been more confused if the "Michaela" he knew had walked into
the saloon that minute. He was sure Kay was really Michaela, especially after
looking into those unique eyes of hers last night. What he didn't know was why
she didn't recognize him, or what had happened for her to end up here. Then,
a thought struck him. How long had she been gone? What must be happening back
in Colorado Springs right now? Was there anyone out looking for her? How must
Sully be feeling right now? He must be frantic looking for her! His first thoughts
were to leave and head home, returning only with Sully. Then, he realized he'd
never convince Sully to return with him just on his word alone that he had found
Michaela, especially if he told him "where" he had found her. He needed some
answers first. "I gotta get her ta trust me," he thought, wondering if he'd
be able to pull this off.
When he didn't respond, Kay started to turn away, stopping when he reached out
and gently, but forcefully, grasped her arm. Momentarily stunned by the odd
feelings she felt from his touch, she turned back to face him. They weren't
feelings of attraction, although she had to admit to his being handsome, in
a roguish sort of way. Moreover, they were feelings of familiarity, giving her
a sense she should know this man but not revealing any clues as to why.
Hank could see he had Kay's attention, at least for the moment, so he had to
think fast. "Sorry for sayin' those things. Ya just reminded me of someone I
know. You're both beautiful," he said, lowering his voice to a gruff sound only
she could hear. Watching her blush, he added, "It's easy ta see how a fella
could get mixed up."
He saw Kay look down at her arm, noticing he still held it firmly in his grasp.
She still wasn't talking, so flattery obviously wasn't the way to go. Was it
possible she was more used to the lusty looks of the men than to the courteous
actions of a gentleman? If that was the case, this could sure turn into a lot
of fun! There was only one way to find out.
He released her arm, leaning back in his chair. "So, how's a fella go about
gettin' some service around here?" he asked, making sure his smirk was clearly
seen on his lips.
Kay looked up from her arm, where his large hand had just held it, and saw the
teasing look in his eyes. She immediately warmed to him and smiled, leaning
towards him and smiling suggestively. "You have only to ask, darlin'," she intoned,
reaching out and grasping a lock of his long hair and twirling it between her
fingers.
Hank was stopped, cold, by how quickly she transformed from the shy girl who
had been standing there a moment before, to Kay, the barmaid, ready to please.
"This ain't gonna be easy, if she keeps lookin' at me like that and leanin'
towards me," he thought, finding it very hard to keep his eyes on her face and
not stray lower. No matter how tempting it was, he had to think of Sully, but
more than that, he had to think of Michaela, and acting on the temptations just
wouldn't be right. Still, that didn't mean he couldn't have a little fun in
the meantime.
"For starters, how's about another glass of whiskey, then ya can come on back
here and keep me company," he invited.
"I can get your whiskey, but as for the company? We'll have to wait and see
if you're worth my time," she teased, playfully running her fingers down his
scraggly cheek before turning and sashaying back towards the bar.
Hank groaned deep in his throat, wondering if he could, indeed, pull this off.
* * * * *
Kay purposefully avoided Hank the rest of the evening, fighting off the strange
thoughts which invaded her mind. There was no way of knowing why she couldn't
get him out of her mind, but she was determined not to allow time spent with
him to cloud her feelings or judgement. She was much safer in continuing in
her duties and serving the other customers, making sure they were happy. After
all, she wasn't the only barmaid, so Belle or Alice or another one of the girls
could tend to his needs.
Nevertheless, as closing time neared, Kay risked a quick glance to the corner
table, realizing Hank still sat in his same spot, almost as if he was transfixed
and unable to move. She wondered why he had remained so long, even though her
mind said it was because of her. Why didn't he just leave her alone? What did
he want with her? Why couldn't she stop thinking about him? What about him worried
her? All of these thoughts went round and round in her head until she didn't
know if she stand it any longer.
Encouraging the last of the customers to leave, she avoided that one corner
and saw Alice walk over and speak to him. She saw him shake his head and nod
in her direction, communicating to Alice that he would wait. Alice shrugged
her shoulders and left, heading back to the kitchen and leaving Kay alone in
the room with Hank. Now, what was she going to do? She couldn't just ignore
him and leave. That would be rude. However, she couldn't talk to him, because
she wasn't sure she could trust herself around him. She didn't understand it,
but there was just something familiar about him which caused her to feel inhibited
around him, as if she should be ashamed of her work and how she was acting.
Not being able to pinpoint the reason for these feelings was almost driving
her insane.
Lost in her thoughts, she didn't see him approach. She didn't even know he was
coming towards her until he was standing two feet away. She started when she
realized he was standing directly in front of her, her breath catching in her
throat. Never before had she seen him standing, and now that he was, she realized
he cut a very impressive figure, even thought at such close proximity, she was
looking directly at his muscular chest. At over six feet tall, with broad shoulders
and deep-set eyes, he was actually a very attractive man. If she wasn't careful,
her feelings might go beyond the friendly approach she took with all the Shady
Oak customers.
Hank noticed how quiet Kay had become, and he had to admit, it sure was strange
to see Michaela acting this way. He had noticed her avoiding him all night,
not to mention avoiding even looking over in his direction. What was going on
inside that pretty little head of hers? What was she thinking at that moment?
"Ya did a real good job of avoidin' me all night, wanna tell me what I did?"
Looking up at him, she realized there was a small trace of hurt in his face,
and she immediately felt bad for her actions. Why should she, though? She didn't
know this man, despite what she felt, so why should she pay him any more attention
than she would any of her regular customers? "I was very busy tonight, as you
saw. We had quite a few customers, and our barmaid staff was limited," she explained,
knowing before the words left her mouth how hollow the lie sounded. If truth
be known, their numbers were actually lower than normal, and all of the barmaids
were working tonight.
Hank knew she was lying, and he knew she knew it, but he decided not to press
her. There was time for that later. First, he had to get her to know he meant
no harm, that he was merely being friendly. "How ‘bout now? Ya ain't busy
now, are ya? Think ya can talk?"
"Why?"
"Cuz I wanna make ya see I ain't out ta git ya, or nothin'," he replied.
"Mr. Lawson....."
"Hank," he corrected.
"Hank, I have never once entertained the notion that you held any animosity
towards me, or that you were a threat to me in any way, so I haven't the faintest
idea why you would need to assure me of it. Secondly, as I have only just met
you this evening, I don't understand why you would want to spend additional
time with me, nor why you have been watching me for the past two nights."
"Leave it to Michaela to use those high-falootin' words and get right to the
point," Hank thought, trying hard to keep the grin from his face. He was sure
of who she was, so why wasn't she? "Miss...?" he began, leaving her to fill
in the missing information, in hopes it would shed a little light on this mystery.
"Kay," she replied.
"Ya ain't got a last name?"
"It's just Kay." She tried hard to hide the hurt in her voice at being unable
to supply him with a last name, but he didn't need to know anything about that.
"Kay," he repeated. That was a start. Her refusal, or more probably her inability
to supply a last name didn't surprise him; in fact, he had expected it. She
couldn't' tell him her last name because she herself didn't know what it was.
It was the only answer that made any sense! Somehow Michaela had lost all memory
of who she was! But what could have happened to her to have caused her to forget?
"I ain't sayin' I done the right thing in watchin' ya and gettin' ya all riled
up about me bein' here, but like I said, ya just reminded me of someone I know,
is all. Ain't nothin' else to it," he lied. "As for talkin' with ya, can't it
just be I just wanna know more about ya?"
"Why would you want that?"
"Cuz maybe I like talkin' with ya and wanna continue?"
She blushed, not accustomed to being flattered in this manner. Sure, she endured
the many leering gazes and suggestive touches by the other male customers, and
Hank certainly behaved the same way in the beginning, but now he simply being
friendly. It was hard to doubt his sincerity.
"What are ya afraid of?" he challenged.
Just as he expected, a spark of fire started in her eyes as she met his own.
"Afraid? I am not afraid of anything! Especially not you! If you want to talk
to me, then talk! Otherwise, I have better ways of spending my time!" she spat
at him, turning around to leave but immediately stopped by his hand grabbing
her arm. He turned her back around to face him, pulling her closer towards him,
causing her to lose her balance and fall against him. He supported her with
both hands until she could regain her stand, but Kay didn't like how she felt
being so close to him. She immediately took two steps away from him and stood
tall, trying to appear in control despite her raging emotions and rapidly beating
heart.
Holding up his hands as a form of surrender, Hank grinned. "Didn' mean nothin'
by what I said. Just tryin' ta be friendly. Never knew ya had such fire in ya,"
he lied again, "but can't say I don't like it!" he teased. At the sign of her
starting to turn away again, he hurried to continue, "Now don't go gittin' all
fired up agin. We been through that already, so how's about havin' lunch with
me tomorra?"
Kay looked him directly in the eyes, trying to see if there might be a hidden
purpose behind his invitation. Seeing none, she still wondered what to do. Since
she arrived, she had never spent time in the company of any man alone, except
for Brady, and even that was just walking to or from the Shady Oak. Still, what
could it hurt? Hank seemed nice enough, and he appeared genuine in his request
to just be a friend and get to know her better. Why shouldn't she accept? After
all, it may just be a very enjoyable time, and she had to admit, she was mildly
attracted to him. Despite his gruff exterior, she could see there was a gentleman
buried beneath, and she didn't mind the chance to spend more time with him.
"Hank, I would be honored," she agreed, "but can we make it an early lunch?
I have to be at work at noon, and Brady doesn't like us to be late."
"No problem," Hank agreed. "Wanna eat at the restaurant? I'm sure you're sick
of seein' this place by now," he teased.
"That sounds fine. Shall we say eleven?"
"Fine by me."
She held out her hand, although not completely knowing why. The gesture would
have been appropriate if they had come to an agreement, and they had, in a way,
but this was different. Nevertheless, Hank grinned and enveloped her small hand
in his large one, grasping it slightly but not releasing it right away. She
pulled a little, unsuccessfully, and looked up at him, a questioning look in
her eyes.
Hank merely smirked and released her hand, nodding his head slightly and turning
to leave. Not a word was said in farewell, and Kay realized he wasn't really
a man of many words, choosing instead to say what he meant as quickly and as
concise as possible. It was one thing she liked about him, as she had known
some rather long-winded gentleman who frequented the Shady Oak. This was a very
welcome change.
Turning to complete her tasks of closing down the bar for the night, she noticed
Brady standing in the doorway to the kitchen, a frown marring his countenance.
She turned away from him and allowed her thoughts to wander, trying to figure
out why he would look so displeased. Was it right to agree to have lunch with
Hank? What would Brady think or say about it? She had felt the obvious tension
between the two men when she approached earlier that evening, and she couldn't
forget the obvious gesture of "staking his claim" when Brady possessively put
his arm around her waist during introductions.
While she hadn't responded then, she felt a small amount of anger rise within
her at his actions. Who was he to make it look like she was his girl? She had
never made any commitment to him, nor he to her! So, why would he think she
had to answer to him regarding her activities outside of work? Sure, she was
grateful for his helping her after her accident and giving her a job here, and
she didn't mind his friendship, but that was all. He might think there was more
to their relationship than just friendship, but she knew there wasn't. He would
just have to accept that.
Deciding there was nothing wrong with what she had done this evening, she finished
her work and brushed past Brady into the kitchen, not saying a word. A moment
later, she re-entered the main room and walked by him again, headed towards
her room. Let him see how he had upset her, and let him apologize. She didn't
owe him anything, and she certainly wasn't going to let some man take control
of her life!
She sighed in frustration
the moment she closed the door behind her. Why did this have to be so difficult?
Why couldn't there just be some clear-cut answers to all of her questions?
What was the reason she had to endure this hardship? Like every night, no
answers were forthcoming, and out of habit, Kay walked to the window overlooking
the main street. Every night, she stood here, questioning her situation, asking
why it had to happen to her, and every night, she was met with nothing but
silence.
However, there was something that kept her coming to this window every night.
Each time she looked up at the moon, she felt as if someone was calling out
to her. It was a ridiculous notion, she knew, but she just couldn't bring herself
to end this nightly vigil. Like each night before, her eyes sought the glowing
light of the moon, and like each night before, she felt the same shivers course
through her body. Despite her confusion at these feelings, her mind and body
wouldn't let her walk away.
* * * * *
"How long ya bin workin'
here?" Hank decided the best way to find out about what happened was to ask.
They had eaten their lunch of beef and potatoes, and he watched the waitress
clearing their plates, then returning to fill their cups with coffee. Now,
was as good a time as any to start getting Kay to trust him. It wasn't easy
thinking of Michaela as Kay, but he thought it best, since he didn't want
to make the mistake of calling her Michaela again.
"I've been here about a month."
"Do ya like it?"
"Yes, I do. At first, I was a little uncomfortable, but I have come to enjoy
working at the Shady Oak, and I dearly love the people in this little town.
They have been so nice to me since I arrived...." She stopped short, wondering
why she had allowed that little bit of information to slip out. She needed to
be more careful in talking about her circumstances. After all, she still didn't
know him very well.
Hank pretended not to notice, even though he saw it as the perfect opportunity
to ask about her past. He had to be careful not to ask too much too fast, even
though patience was never a virtue of his. "Ya wanna stay here, or ya got plans
ta go somewhere else?"
"Truthfully, I haven't really given it much thought. I mean, I enjoy doing what
I do, and I have a place to live, food to eat, and friends. I don't really need
anything else, so there's no reason why I would pursue other interests in order
to get more," she replied, honestly. "However....." She stopped again. What
was it about Hank that encouraged her to be honest about the feelings she had
been hiding?
"What do ya want?" Hank asked, not in a rough manner.
Kay thought for a moment, wondering if she should tell him anything. How would
he react? What would he think about her? Could she trust him? That was the most
important question. Everyone in town knew her story, but she lived here, and
she had seen these people every day for the past month. Who was Hank? He was
a stranger to her, even though something about him told her it was safe. She
risked looking in his eyes, and she lost all doubt. It wasn't easy to explain,
but she just knew it was safe. She knew he'd understand. She knew he wouldn't
laugh or change how he treated her.
Taking a deep breath to give herself courage, she began. "I want to know who
I am."
"You're Kay," Hank replied, simply, not wanting to say too much, so she would
do all the talking.
"No, I know that's what people call me, here, but that's not who I am. I told
you I have only been here for about a month, and that's true. However, before
that, I don't have any knowledge of where I lived, what I was, what friends
I had, who my family is, or who I was. From what has been discovered, I was
in the train yard just outside of town when an explosion occurred. I was directly
affected, suffering a severe blow to my head, which resulted in a minor concussion
and amnesia -- that's forgetting everything about your past and who you are,"
she hastened to explain.
"Brady, the man who owns the Shady Oak, found me and brought me to the saloon,
giving me a room where I could recover. Julia, the lady who runs the mercantile
with her husband, Thomas, stayed by my bed day and night until I had recovered,
and when the doctor pronounced me well, Brady gave me a job as a barmaid. Not
knowing anything about my past, and not having any identification or luggage
on me, save a ripped piece of a letter, they thought it wise that I remain here.
I was in no place to argue, so I stayed. Nothing else has happened, since, and
I am still left with an unknown past," she finished, the pain and turmoil of
the circumstances evident in her heartfelt explanation.
Hank fought hard, trying not to reveal anything to her about who he was, or
who she was, since for some reason, he knew it wouldn't be wise. He didn't know
much about these medical cases, and it was rather ironic that the woman who
did was the one who was affected. He held back the grin his mouth fought to
form, knowing it would only hurt Michaela -- Kay. "What about the letter they
found on ya?"
"It didn't say anything or reveal anything about my life. It was something about
visiting a relative in another city, but the city's name wasn't visible, and
neither was the name of the relative. I do know it was my uncle, but I don't
know where he is or his name, so it didn't help any. My name wasn't even on
the letter, anywhere."
They had finished their coffee and were waiting for the waitress to bring their
bill. Hank plunked the money on the table and silently invited Kay to join him.
Once outside, they began to walk.
"How'd ya get ‘Kay'?" he resumed their conversation.
"Julia and Brady came up with that, saying I had to have a name, and Julia thought
I looked like a "Kay", so Kay I am......for now," she finished, dejectedly.
"Ya don't know nothin' ‘bout your past, no faces, no names, no nothin'?"
"It's all a complete void, absent of any images."
"Ain't ya thought about tryin' to find out?"
"Yes, I have, but I have no idea where to start. What exactly would I say to
people? ‘Hi, I don't know my name, and I can't remember anything about
myself, but could you help me?' That certainly wouldn't work!"
"Yeah, guess you're right. If ya could do somethin', what would ya do?"
"I'd most likely contact the train station and try to find out which train I
was on and where it was headed when I arrived here. I know I must have been
on a train, since no one around here knew me. I don't know how much luck I would
have, but it's at least a start. Maybe the train station manager, or someone
on the trains would recognize me or remember me, or something," she pleaded,
hopefully, more in regards to the situation than with him.
Hoping he was doing the right thing, he sighed, causing Kay to look up at him.
"What if I was to do the askin' for ya?"
Kay stopped short, causing Hank to stop as well. "You'd do that?"
"You sure ain't gonna have any luck!"
Impulsively, she threw her arms around his neck, giving him a quick, but grateful,
hug. Aware of what she had just done, coupled with the fact they were standing
in the middle of the street in broad daylight, Kay backed away, blushing. "I....I'm....so
sorry," she stammered, wondering why she had done such a thing.
"Ain't gotta apologize to me. ‘Sides, I didn' mind," he teased, causing
her to look up at him and smile.
What was happening to her? Why was she being so taken in by this man's charms?
What was it about him which caused her to feel as if she had known him for years,
when she had only seen him two days ago? Shaking her head, she tried to clear
her thoughts. She started to say something, but Hank interrupted her.
"I know ya gotta get to work, so I'll start askin' and see ya later tonight."
Kay nodded, not trusting herself to speak. She looked into his eyes, communicating
her thanks without words. He just nodded and turned, walking in the direction
of the train yard. Left standing alone, Kay shook herself and headed towards
the Shady Oak. There was no time to dwell on this now.
* * * * *
Although she didn't want to admit it, Kay had missed seeing Hank sitting at
what she had come to see as his "customary" table in the corner. She went about
her usual work, serving drinks, smiling and entertaining the men who came into
the saloon, but there was an empty feeling inside, and she didn't want to admit
to herself it was because of Hank. However, when he walked in a short while
before closing time, she couldn't help but smile at him. He only nodded in return,
but took his seat at his usual table.
Not wanting to appear too eager, Kay took her time in approaching him. "Whiskey
again?"
"Yep, ya know me already!" he teased, but he saw the look of confusion which
crossed her face. Hoping it was confusion about knowing him and maybe a little
of her past not making sense, he decided to continue with his facade. Watching
her walk back to the bar to request his drink, he swore to himself. "Damn, this
ain't gonna be easy!" It didn't help that he had always found Michaela attractive
and quite a woman, but with her dressed the way she was, it made it near impossible
to keep his mind focused on his purpose. Of course, she wasn't making it any
easier by the suggestive tone she took when working, or the way she touched
him when she talked. "A man can only endure so much!" he thought to himself,
working hard to put those thoughts out of his mind as she approached his table.
"Here you are, one whiskey, just as requested!" she announced, setting down
the glass and standing close to him.
Hank immediately grabbed the glass, swallowing the contents in one long swig.
He needed to focus on anything but Michaela at that moment, or he'd lose his
resolve. Why did she have to make this so difficult? "Damn, but she looks good
in that get-up!" he thought, watching her walk away to serve the other two tables
occupied in the saloon. He realized it was closing time, and he hoped to get
a chance to talk to Michaela again before the night was over. Watching the few
remaining customers leave, he noticed Brady hovering near the stairs, watching
him and Michaela, switching his gaze between them both.
Kay appeared oblivious to Brady's presence. Either that, or she was ignoring
him on purpose. Whichever it was, she was now walking towards Hank with a very
welcoming smile on her face. He groaned in the back of his throat, willing himself
to be strong.
Taking the glass from him and wiping the table clean, she saw Hank close his
eyes, as if he didn't want to look at her. Wondering what she had done, she
reached out and touched his bearded cheek, causing him to open his eyes with
a start. He grabbed a hold of her wrist and placed it down on the table, forcing
himself to focus only on her face and seeing the confused look in her eyes.
"Can we talk outside?"
Not really caring what people would think about walking alone with a man this
late at night, she agreed. She tossed her cloth into the bucket in the corner
and accompanied him outside. They walked for about a minute without talking,
and Kay wondered what was going on. Deciding she was going to have to be the
one to start this conversation, she stopped walking, noticing that Hank continued.
"Hank," she stated, imploringly.
Hearing her voice, he noticed she was no longer right next to him, so he turned
and walked the few steps back to join her. "Yeah?"
"Is there something wrong? Did I do something to offend you?"
He saw the hurt look on her face and called upon all of his willpower to remain
in control. It wasn't easy, especially when every fiber within his being was
crying out to grab a hold of Kay.....Michaela, and kiss her like he'd always
wanted to do. "Nah, it wasn't you, it was me. I tried findin' somethin' out
today, but no luck," he tried to sound convincing, hoping she would believe
he had actually asked around about her past. It wasn't all a lie, since he had
asked around, but it wasn't about her past, it was about her life here and any
clues he thought he might find from those here in town. He found a few more
pieces to the story, but still wasn't completely sure of everything that had
happened.
Kay reached out and touched his cheek again, running her fingers down his bearded
cheekbone, then grasping a lock of his hair and twirling it between her fingers.
"Don't worry about that. The important thing is that you tried, and I'm very
grateful for you doing that for me. I won't pretend to understand why, but I
am very thankful," she told him, honestly.
Hank looked down into her upturned face, seeing it bathed in the glow of the
moonlight and finding it increasingly difficult to ignore his desires. He
knew it wasn't right, but he fought within himself all the same.
Unexpectedly, he felt her hands on his chest, slowly and sensually moving up
to his shoulders as she stood on tiptoe to bring her face closer to his. Helpless
to resist, he felt her lips touch his, and he responded with all the pent-up
desire he had been harboring for years. Surprised at the intensity of his response,
as well as Kay's own reaction, he forced himself to put a stop to it.
Abruptly, he broke off the kiss and shoved Kay back a few steps, putting distance
between them both. Her confusion and hurt were obvious on her face, but he couldn't
think about that. He had taken unfair advantage of the situation, and things
had gotten way out of control. What just happened was unfair to Sully. It was
unfair to her family. Most of all, it was unfair to Michaela. Silently cursing
himself for allowing it to get this far, he took another step back.
"We gotta stop this. I gotta get outta here, before I do somethin' we'll both
regret later. I'm leavin', Kay," he continued, not wanting to look at her and
see the pain he was causing her. "I gotta get away from here and you, or I'm
gonna get us both in a lotta trouble!"
"I don't underst...."
He cut her off. "Don't even try, Kay. Just trust me on this one. I gotta get
outta here!" he said and turned, walking away from her without a backwards glance.
It didn't matter that the train wasn't due to arrive until tomorrow morning,
he had to be alone. Not wanting to think about Michaela and what had just happened,
he decided to focus on what he would say to Sully when he told him about Michaela.
"God, what have I done?!"
Kay stood there, watching him go, wondering what had just happened, still shaking
from the experience, and wondering at the cold feeling which permeated her entire
being. Shivering from the feeling as well as the cool night, she walked, distractedly
back to the Shady Oak. Not seeing anyone or anything, she mechanically walked
up the stairs to her room, closing the door behind her, not wanting to face
anyone.
Unbeknownst to her, Brady had been standing at the door to the Shady Oak the
entire time, and he now watched her closed door, anger clearly evident on his
face.
My Dearest Michaela,
I trust this letter finds you in the best of health, as well as Sully and your family. I know it has been some time since you have heard anything from me, and for that, I offer you my sincerest apologies. It is not for want of thinking about you, for I do that often enough. Of late, I have been very distraught over the circumstances of our last parting, and I am now seeking to make amends for my inexcusable behavior.
I have been recently on tour throughout the country, doing performances and recitals at various locations. Sadly enough, none of these locations bring me very close to you, but I will be in San Francisco in a few weeks, and it is my greatest hope that you will be able to find the time to accompany me. I know this is late notice, but I will pay for all of your expenses. You have only to wire my bank in Boston and have the money transferred there for your use.
You may be wondering why I have waited until now to invite you, but I remember you telling me of your interest in seeing San Francisco, and there are some wonderful places I would love to show you. There is a new hospital I believe you would enjoy seeing, and we could also visit Woodward's Gardens. I have heard of some friend tell me about other areas of interest, and I know you would enjoy them as well. There is the Mission Dolores, the Ocean House, Seal Rock, Fort Point and the Presidio.
I have arranged for all of your accommodations. You will be staying at the Portsmouth Hotel, in a suite next to mine. The entire trip will take about two weeks, and I have included a schedule of the train you would need to take to ensure your arrival here, on time.
Please, at least consider joining me, as I sorely miss the company of family, and it is not my wish to be estranged from you any longer. I am hoping to also make amends to Brian this summer, if you will permit it, as I would like to invite him to accompany me on my tours. Again, do not think on this now. I look forward to seeing you or hearing from you, whichever the case may be.
Sincerely yours,
Uncle Teddy
He writes that
he's going to be in San Francisco this weekend, performing as part of his
tour, and he has invited me to join him!" Michaela announced after opening
and reading the letter from her Uncle Teddy which arrived that afternoon.
"Really, Ma? That's great! Do you think you'll get the chance to ride on a
cable car? I read an article Ms. Dorothy had ‘bout a man named, um, Andrew
Smith Hallidie, who invented the first cable car two years ago. They only
started bein' run by electricity last year. I think it would be a lotta fun
to ride on one!" Brian exclaimed. "And did ya know it used to be a Spanish
garrison called Yerba Buena, before bein' changed to San Francisco in 1847?
I read about all that after my first pa left last time."
Michaela placed a comforting hand on her son's arm, proud he was learning
so much on his own.
"Mama, are you goin' on a train?" four-year-old Katie asked.
"Well, I don't know yet,"
Michaela replied, looking down the table at her husband. "It's only three
days from now, and I would still have to pack, and then there's the matter
of getting coverage for the Clinic, and making sure that everything here is
taken care of," Michaela began making plans in her mind.
"Does he say why he's got this sudden need to see ya?" Sully interrupted her
thoughts.
"Well, he says he has felt simply terrible about the way we parted when last
he was here, and he wanted to make amends. There is a new hospital he says
I would enjoy seeing, and he mentions something about visiting Woodward's
Gardens. He also says he plans on keeping me fairly busy taking me to places
such as the Mission Dolores, the Ocean House, Seal Rock, Fort Point and the
Presidio," Michaela listed, reading from the letter.
"How long?" Sully continued to press for more information. He still wasn't
sure about her uncle's motives. Based on what had happened when her uncle
visited, inviting Michaela for a visit just didn't sound like that was all
he planned.
"Two weeks. It will take two days by train, I will be staying at the Portsmouth
Hotel for a little over a week, and then be on the return train the next Tuesday."
"Wow, San Francisco! What I wouldn't give to be goin' there!" Brian was still
awed at the prospect of his Ma traveling to the West Coast and seeing the
Pacific Ocean.
"Well, actually, Brian, he does mention that he will be continuing to tour
into the summer, and he is very interested in inviting you to join him at
a later date, just the two of you," Michaela informed him.
"Really? Just me and Uncle Teddy? And it would be in the summer, so I wouldn't
have ta miss school! Do you think I can go?!"
"Mama and Bwian goin' away? I wanna go, too!" Katie pouted.
"Now, wait just a minute. Nothing is set in stone, yet," Michaela smiled at
her daughter's expression and her son's enthusiasm. She looked again at Sully,
wondering at his silence. She knew it meant they would discuss it later, so
she decided to change the subject and get back to their dessert.
* * * * *
"I don't know, Michaela," Sully said, still unsure.
"It's only for a little over a week, Sully," Michaela stated, trying to reason
with him. "I can wire Dr. Bernard to come and cover the Clinic. After all,
he said he would welcome the change sometime should the need arise for his
services. Brian has school and work with Dorothy on the Gazette, and Grace
can watch Katie while you're working."
Sighing, Sully turned from the washbasin, facing his wife who was sitting
at her dressing table, pulling the brush through her long tresses and talking
to him through her mirror. With the light from the fire casting a soft glow
about her, he just ached to reach out and touch her soft hair. Drying the
remaining drops of water from his face, he dropped the towel on the stand,
took a few steps and kneeled behind her, taking over brushing her hair.
"I just think there's
more to your uncle's invitation than just wantin' ta make amends. Ya sure
he ain't gonna try to change your mind about Brian again, or go plantin' more
negative statements about me in your head?"
"Oh, Sully, can't you just give him a chance? Perhaps this tour has changed
him for the better. Perhaps he's realized the mistakes he made when he was
here, and he wishes to apologize. Besides, I'm all he has left, with relations
so strained between mother and him. I merely feel he's a lonely man who would
love to have family around him again. How could I possibly deny him that?"
"Are ya sure ya wanna do this?"
"Yes. I am. I could use a break from everything, and I would love the opportunity
of touring the hospital there. Are you certain everything will be all right
here without me?"
"Everythin'll be fine. That's not what's worryin' me."
"Oh? What is?"
"You bein' gone. I miss ya when you're not here," he stated, lowering his
voice and placing the brush on the dressing table. He moved around to her
side and took her hands in his.
Turning to face him, Michaela gave his hands a squeeze. "I miss you, too,
when we're apart, but it won't be for long, and I'll be home before you know
it," she assured him.
"I guess I can get along without ya for a little more'n a week," he grinned,
standing up and drawing her up with him.
"I have an even better idea. Each night, after the children are asleep, I
want you to come to our window and look up at the moon. I'll be at my window,
looking at the same moon, and we can talk to each other in our hearts."
"Mrs. Sully, I'd say you're turnin' into quite a romantic," Sully teased.
"I had the best teacher," she replied, teasing him in return, leaning in for
the kiss she knew was coming.
A long, tender moment later, they broke apart. "Well, seein's how ya'll be
busy in the next few days gettin' ready and sayin' goodbye to everyone, guess
I'll have to settle for sayin' my goodbyes at night," he suggestively whispered.
Michaela returned the seductive smile, an inviting look entering her eyes.
She willingly followed her husband to their bed, anticipating the loving farewell
she would receive.
* * * * *
"Now, Brian, you make certain to keep up with your studies. Don't get too
involved with work on the Gazette," Michaela admonished.
"I won't, Ma."
"And Katie, I want you to be a good girl for your Papa and me, and especially
Ms. Grace."
"Yes, Mama."
"I'll see about picking up something special for you both from San Francisco,
but only if you promise to behave yourselves."
"We, will!" they echoed simultaneously.
"Are you sure everything will be alright?" Michaela worriedly asked her husband.
"Everythin'll be fine, Michaela. Just have a good time," Sully replied, assuring
her. "Stop you're frettin'," he smiled.
"Mama, I love you," exclaimed little Katie, clinging to her mother's skirts.
Michaela picked up her daughter, hugging her tightly. "I love you, too, my
little angel."
"Bye, Ma. Have fun in San Francisco. See you soon."
Pulling Brian close to her, she hugged both of her children, then released
them, turning to her husband. Brian took Katie's hand and stepped back.
"I'll miss you," she whispered, placing her hands around his waist.
Locking his arms around her back, he replied, "Me, too. I love you."
"I love you," she echoed, lifting her face for his kiss.
The train whistle blew and the conductor shouted, "All aboard! Last call!"
They both broke apart, breathless.
"Ya'd better get goin' or you'll miss your train," Sully said, reminding her
of the same words she had spoken to him when he left for Nevada to visit Daniel
nearly three years ago. She smiled, boarding the train with Sully's assistance.
Waving to her family and friends who had come to see her off, she felt tears
come to her eyes. She stared at each one in turn, her eyes coming to rest
on her husband. She wanted to hold the images of their faces in her mind to
comfort her while she was gone. The train pulled away amidst farewells from
her friends and her family, and she stood waving until they disappeared from
sight, only then entering the train car to take her seat.
* * * * *
It was over two weeks since Sully had said goodbye to his wife on the train
bound for San Francisco. She should have arrived on yesterday's train, if
she had been on the one that left Wednesday. He hadn't heard anything and
was getting worried. He had sent a couple of telegrams to the hotel where
Michaela was supposed to be staying, but there had been no reply. Maybe she
was busy with her uncle. Still, it wasn't like Michaela not to respond. He
walked up the steps at the train station, intending to send another telegram,
and Horace greeted him at the window.
"Mornin', Sully, there's a letter here for Dr. Mike," the telegraph operator
told him, handing him the piece of mail.
"Thanks, Horace," Sully replied, turning the letter over and looking at the
return address: San Francisco! It was from Michaela's uncle! Why would he
be sending a letter to her if she was there with him? Maybe it was meant to
arrive earlier and had been delayed. Sully didn't have a very good feeling
about things, and despite the fact he knew he would hear it from Michaela
when she got home, he opened the letter and began reading:
My Dearest Michaela,
I am very sorry you were unable to meet me in San Francisco, as I had planned to spend a very enjoyable time with you. My performances went on with great success, and I have been invited back for future recitals. Maybe at one of those times, you will be able to join me. Or, maybe my invitations will find me in Denver, a trip you can no doubt make with great ease.
Please give my best to your family, and I hope to see you again, sometime soon.
Sincerely yours,
Uncle Teddy
Sully's face
went white.
"Ya all right, Sully? Ain't bad news, is it?" Horace asked, concerned at the
change in Sully.
"This letter here's from Michaela's uncle, and he's expressin' his disappointment
that she couldn't join him for his time in San Francisco," Sully stated, more
to himself than out loud.
"But, Dr. Mike left two weeks ago to go see him," Horace pointed out, then
remembered news he had received earlier that day. "Oh, an' I found out why
them telegrams you sent out last week never got a reply."
"Why's that?"
"The telegraph wires were down at several locations in San Francisco, including
that hotel where Dr. Mike was stayin'. That's why ya never heard back. They
never went through," Horace explained, concern evident on his face.
"Well, is there any way we can get a message to somewhere in San Francisco
that'd get a message to the hotel?"
"Well, I could wire the train station there and see what kinda information
I could find."
"Yeah, do that! I gotta find out what happened!"
"Sure!"
San Francisco Train Depot. Inquiring about the telegraph lines in city. Need message to be delivered to Portsmouth Hotel. Guest registered. Dr. Michaela Quinn. Arrival time. Please respond immediately. Colorado Springs Train Depot.
"I ain't heard
anythin' on any train accidents or anythin'. What could have happened?"
"I don't know, Horace, but I ain't got a good feelin' about this."
"Well, I won't be leavin' this telegraph ‘til I get a reply."
"I appreciate that, Horace. I'm gonna go pick up Katie and stay at the livery.
The minute you get a reply, lemme know."
"Sure thing, Sully."
* * * * *
"Papa!" Katie exclaimed, running into Sully's open arms.
Swinging her around, then hugging her to his chest, he kissed her cheek. "How's
my sweet Kates?"
"Good. Miss Grace teach me how to cook."
"So's that mean you'll be cookin' supper from now on?" he teased, tickling
her ribs.
The little girl squirmed, pushing his hand away. "No, Papa, Mama cooks supper,"
she corrected, then paused. "Papa? When is Mama comin' home?"
"Soon, Kates."
"I miss her."
"Me, too, Kates. Me, too," he sighed, hugging his daughter closer to him,
trying hard not to let her see how worried he was. She buried her head into
his shoulder, grasping his neck to be sure she didn't fall.
"Sully!" What brings you out here this early?" Grace inquired, wiping her
hands on her apron and approaching the pair.
"I just thought I'd come pay a visit to my favorite girl. Katie tells me you've
been teachin' her how to cook."
Laughing, Grace turned back to the stove. "Well, I don't think she'll be makin'
any big feasts, but she did help me mix some of the ingredients for the meatloaf,
pie, and biscuits. She's a good little helper," she complimented, lightly
touching Katie's light-brown locks.
"See, Papa? I am a good helper. Miss Gwace say so!" the child stated, triumphantly,
lifting her head from Sully's shoulder and staring him in the face.
"So, she ain't been any trouble today?"
"Not at all. In fact, I'm happy to have her."
"How's Michael doin'?"
"Oh, he's takin' his nap over there with Robert E. He fell asleep ‘bout
half-an-hour ago, an' Robert E said he'd watch him for me."
"I help rock Michael, Papa."
"Guess ya've been busy today. Maybe ya didn't miss me," Sully said, trying
to sound sad.
"No, Papa! I miss you all day! I love you!" the little girl stated emphatically,
squeezing her little arms around his neck again in a hug.
"I've missed you, too. All day!"
"Any word from Dr. Mike?"
Sighing, Sully looked at Grace. "Actually, I got a letter today from her uncle."
"But why would he.....?" she stopped at Sully shaking his head, gesturing
to Katie and letting her know he didn't want to discuss it with Katie there.
She looked over at Robert E, signaling him to come join them. "Katie, would
you do Miss Grace a favor?"
"Yes, Miss Gwace."
"Would you go over an' watch Michael for a few minutes, please? His Papa needs
ta take a break and get a drink."
"Okay," she agreed. "Papa, put me down, pwease." She ran off to where Michael
was sleeping, as soon as her feet touched the ground.
Robert E joined them a moment later. "What's goin' on?"
Making certain that no one else would overhear them, Sully began. "I's just
tellin' Grace I got a letter from Michaela's uncle today, addressed to her.
I wondered why he'd send a letter here when she was with him, so I thought
it was just a late letter. But, I ain't heard nothin' from her since she left,
and I got to worryin'. So, I opened it."
"What did it say?" Grace asked.
"He was expressin' his sadness that she wasn't able to join him for his performance
and see San Francisco. The letter's dated for last Friday."
"But she did go see him!" Robert E stated, getting worried as well.
"Seems she never made it."
"Never made it!? Are ya sure?" Robert E asked.
"Well, did ya contact him?" Grace wondered.
"I sent telegrams to the hotel last week, but Horace just found out the wires
were down at several locations in the city. So, he sent out a telegram to
the train station immediately after I told him about the letter. I'm supposed
ta hear..."
"Sully!" They all heard Horace's frantic voice, seeing the telegraph operator
running towards them. "The train station wrote back," Horace announced, handing
the short message to Sully.
Colorado Springs Train Depot. Message sent to Portsmouth Hotel. Reply. No guest checked in as Quinn. Registered. No arrival. No further information. San Francisco Train Depot.