For personal use and select distribution only © April 2001 by "Tiff" Amber Miller
by Tiffany Miller
"I can't believe how much this itches!" Jake complained, resisting the urge to scratch the marks, even though every fiber in his being was fighting against him.
"Jacob, you remember Dr. Quinn's words about scratching. You could cause permanent scars to form, and you were the one who wished that no one in town knew about you having them. If you create scars, they will all know," she pointed out, wisely.
"Yeah, I know, but it ain't makin' it any easier to not scratch," he replied.
"Please, roll up your sleeves," she instructed, reaching for the tin of ointment on the table and coming to kneel in front of his chair. He did as she asked, and Teresa scooped out a small amount of ointment, tenderly rubbing it over the areas where he seemed to be having the most trouble.
"That feels good already," Jake sighed in relief.
"Perhaps we should put this all over, in case you have some more areas which have not developed red marks," she suggested.
"How long did Dr. Mike say this is supposed to last?" Jake asked, without answering her.
"I believe she said it was three to four days after most of the marks appear," Teresa replied.
"It's been a week since the first ones appeared, so I'm guessin' I'm about done with them," Jake observed.
"Perhaps you are correct, but we should not take any chances," she cautioned, holding out the salve for him to take.
"Yeah, guess you're right," he grudgingly agreed, taking the tin from her. He was just about out of the room, when there was a knock at the door.
"I will see who it is," Teresa told him.
"Jus' don't let them know I'm here, if they ask for me," Jake reminded her.
"Jacob, please," she replied, and waited until he left the room before turning to open the door.
* * * * *
"Mornin' Michaela." Hank joined her and Colin as they walked towards the Slicker home.
"Good morning, Hank," Michaela returned as Colin hid behind her skirts to avoid being too close to Hank. "What brings you out to the Slickers?"
"Thought I'd come and see what's been keepin' Jake from comin' into work," he replied. "Ain't seem him around, lately. Wanna make sure he ain't sick or nothin'."
"That's very thoughful of you, Hank, but Mrs. Slicker stated the other day that Jake had gone out of town for a few days. I don't suppose he's returned yet," Michaela informed him.
"He ain't outta town. He ain't even been in town to go outta town, and I know he'd take the train over a horse if he had business, so he's makin' folks believe he ain't around for some reason," Hank deduced.
"That may be true, Hank, and you're more than welcome to join us. Colin and I were just going to see Mrs. Slicker and thank her again for taking care of Colin while he had the chicken pox," Michaela said,.
"Chicken pox, huh?" Hank paused for a moment. "Don't reckon Jake ever had them, least not that he told me, so maybe that's what's keepin' him here. I'm just gonna have to see for myself."
By this time, they had come to the door and Michaela wrapped lightly. A moment later Teresa opened the door, quickly hiding her surprise at seeing Hank.
"Dr. Quinn! Colin! How nice to see you." She paused, briefly. "Mr. Lawson," she greeted him with a nod.
"We thought we might stop by for a brief visit to thank you for caring for Colin," Michaela began. "He helped me make this pecan pie, and he wanted you to have it."
"I didn't do much, but it's good," Colin added.
"I am certain it will be delicious." Teresa reassured him with a smile, taking the pie from Michaela's outstretched hands.
"Is Jake around?" Hank interrupted.
A brief glimpse of alarm entered Teresa's eyes and just as quickly disappeared as she masked her face to conceal anything that might show. She glanced at Colin. "I am sorry, Mr. Lawson. Jacob has not been home for several days." She didn't like lying, especially in front of Colin, but she had promised her husband. Now, what was she going to do?
"I see his horse still in the corral, and I ain't seen him in town to take the train. Where'd he go?" Hank continued to press.
"Is Mr. Slicker still sick?" Colin asked.
Teresa looked into Colin's worried eyes and knew she could no longer pretend. Hopefully, Jacob would understand. "I am sorry for not speaking the truth, Mr. Lawson. Jacob is here, but he has asked that no one see him and that no one know."
"Know what?" Hank asked.
"If Jake is ill, Mrs. Slicker, perhaps I should check on him," Michaela added, assuming her professional role as the town doctor.
"That will not be necessary, Dr. Quinn. Jacob only has the chicken pox, and they are just about complete. He only asked that I not speak to anyone about this."
"Can I go see him, please?" Colin spoke, quietly.
Teresa looked down at Colin and her heart wrenched at his pleading expression. There was no way she was going to turn the little boy away. "Of course, Colin. Mr. Lawson, Dr. Quinn, you may come in, too," she invited. "I do not think it will make a difference, now that you know." She stepped aside and allowed them all to enter, closing the door behind them.
* * * * *
"Hello, Mr. Slicker," Colin came into the room, followed by Teresa and Michaela.
"Hey there, Colin," Jake replied, watching as the little boy approached the chair where Jake was sitting.
"Are you sick, Mr. Slicker?" Colin asked in a small voice.
"Nah, ain't nothin' different than what you had last week," Jake reassured him.
"Yeah, ‘cept you ain't a kid, and it looks real funny on a grown man," Hank added, coming into the room. Jake immediately looked towards his wife, trying hard to keep his anger from showing. "So, how long did ya figure you'd be keepin' this from all of us, Jake?" Hank asked with a smirk.
"This is exactly why I didn't want no one knowin' about this," Jake heatedly stated.
"Ahh, ain't no reason to go gettin' mad, but ya gotta admit, you sure do look a sight with all them spots all over your face," Hank teased.
"Why'd you come all the way out here, anyway?" Jake demanded. "Ya ain't had any reason to come before."
"Ain't seen ya in town all week and wondered where ya been," Hank replied. "I know ya didn't take the train nowheres, so figured ya had a reason for not bein' around. Now, I know why." He shrugged. "Now that I know, guess I'd best be on my way. Got a business to run." He turned to leave, then turned back around and paused, before speaking again. "Hope to see ya in town."
Jake stared after him in silence, as much surprised to see him there as he was to hear his parting words. He turned abruptly back to the others in the room when he felt a small hand in his. Looking down into Colin's face, he smiled and reached out a hand to tousle the boy's hair. "I told ya I'd be fine, and I will be. Ain't that right Dr. Mike?" Jake turned to look at Michaela.
"From what I can see, Jake, yes. You seem to be doing very well, and I see no reason why you won't be fully recovered in about two days," Michaela replied.
"That mean they can come to supper?" Colin asked, turning to face Michaela.
"Supper?" Jake asked.
Michaela looked down at the floor in embarassment, but gathered her composure and raised her eyes to look at Jake. "Yes, although we wanted to thank you both for caring for Colin while he was sick, the other reason we came out here was to invite you both to supper at our homestead Thursday evening," Michaela answered his question. "You should be recovered from the chicken pox by then, and everyone else has had them, so I don't see any risk."
Jake looked down at Colin, then lifted his eyes to his wife, who was standing in the doorway. "Up to you, Teresa," he stated.
"Please?" Colin pleaded, turning to look at her.
The look in Colin's eyes made up her mind for her. "Yes, we would like that very much, Dr. Quinn. Thank you for inviting us." She smiled when Colin's eyes lit up in excitement.
"Wonderful!" Michaela exclaimed. "I know Colin will be very happy to have you, and so will Sully and I. Shall we say six o'clock?"
"That will be fine, Dr. Quinn," Teresa replied with a nod.
"I'll be certain to tell Sully." She paused and held out her hand towards Colin. "Now, we should be heading back to the clinic. Things were a little slow, so we thought we would take the time to come visit you. I am expecting a patient this afternoon, and there may still be one or two children who have yet to contract the chicken pox. Colin, are you ready to go?"
Colin looked back at Jake, then glanced up at Teresa, smiling at them both. "Yes, ma'am," he replied, removing his hand from Jake's and placing it in Michaela's. "Bye, Mr. Slicker. Bye, Mrs. Slicker."
"We'll see you Thursday evening," Michaela added, leading Colin from the room.
Teresa walked them to the door, then returned to the room where her husband was sitting and joined him in the chair opposite him. "What is troubling you, Jacob?"
"Nothin', really," he hedged.
"Jacob, you cannot keep things from me. Please, tell me what is bothering you," she pressed, reaching across and taking one of his hands in hers.
"It's just awfully quiet around here without Colin, is all. I never thought I'd say that, but I miss him," he admitted.
Teresa allowed a small smile to form on her lips. "I miss him, too, Jacob. He is a very good little boy, and there is something about him that touches my heart," she confessed.
"Ya ain't just sayin' that? Ya really mean it?"
"Of course I do. I would not lie about something like this," she replied, slightly affronted at his questioning her.
"I'm sorry, Teresa. I know you wouldn't. It's just that ever since I gave him that haircut a few weeks ago, I been thinkin' about him a lot. He don't seem to mind bein' around us, either."
"You are correct, Jacob," Teresa agreed. "The first day I saw him at school, he became very special to me. He has had so much happen to him. I wish there was something we could do to help him," she stated.
"Maybe there is," Jake replied, watching his wife's puzzled expression as she turned her eyes to look at him. "What do you say we take Colin in to live with us?" At her initial signs of protest, he quickly continued. "I ain't sayin' it'll be permanent, but maybe just for a little while, see how things go."
Teresa turned her eyes away and pulled her hand from his. "I do not know about this, Jacob. Colin is a very special boy, but he has so much from his past we do not know. What will happen if this does not work?"
"Like I said, we can just try it out for a while, see how it all works. Besides, we ain't even asked him yet. Maybe he'll wanna stay with Dr. Mike and Sully," Jake pointed out.
"Yes, you are correct, but..." she drifted off, not finishing her sentence.
"What is it, Teresa?" Jake pressed, reaching out and taking her hand in his once again.
She remained quiet for a few moments, then turned to face her husband. "I only do not wish for Colin to take the place of any children you and I may have," she whispered, her voice filled with a little pain.
Jake placed his other hand over Teresa's and gave it a reassuring squeeze. "That ain't gonna happen, Teresa. I promise. I ain't gonna give up tryin' to have a little on of our own. In the meantime, I thought it might be nice to have Colin around. If it all works out, he could be a big brother."
Teresa looked into his eyes and smiled, reaching up to wipe a lone tear which had fallen from her eye. "Thank you," she said. Jake didn't reply, just squeezed her hand again as they both sat back in comforting silence.
* * * * * * * * * *
"Colin, can you help me set the table? Our guests will be here very soon." Michaela hurried between the kitchen and dining area, checking on the meal cooking on the stove and making certain that everything was in order for their meal.
"Yes, ma'am," Colin replied, coming into the kitchen to take the utensils Michaela handed him.
"I help, too!" Katie toddled into the kitchen and pouted when she noticed everyone had a job except her.
"You can help Colin, sweetheart, but be careful," she admonished.
"Yes, Mama," the little girl replied. Michaela smiled when she overheard Katie and Colin talking. "Mama tell me to help."
"Here, put these forks and spoons next to the plates," Colin instructed. "Don't drop them, or they'll get dirty."
Michaela double-checked the meal one more time, then turned around and abrupty ran into Sully, who was standing behind her.
"Whoa, there!" he remarked, placing his hands about her waist. "Why dontcha stop frettin' so much. Everythin's just fine, and supper'll be delicious. I just know it," he reassured her.
"But, Sully, this is the first time we've had Jake and Teresa over for supper, and I want everything just right," she protested.
"It will be, and even if it ain't, there ain't nothin' you're gonna do to stop it," he pointed out wisely.
"Yes, I know that, Sully, but..."
He stopped her reply with a finger on her lips, then leaned towards her, placing a lingering kiss where his finger had been. "No buts," he whispered. "Tonight's gonna be just fine with or without your frettin'."
Michaela sighed and leaned against him, allowing herself to relish the comfort she always found in his arms. "Thank you, Sully," she whispered near his ear. "Sometimes, I suppose I can get a little carried away," she admitted.
"A little?" he teased.
She pulled away and looked up into his face, one corner of her mouth turning up in a crooked grin. "All right, very carried away."
"Yeah, but you do care, and I love ya for it," he replied, giving her a quick kiss. Hearing a wagon pull up outside, he gave her a final squeeze, then stepped back. "We'll have to continue this conversation, later." He winked and smiled when she blushed, then walked into the other room to greet their guests.
* * * * *
"Dr. Quinn, that was a very delicious supper," Teresa complimented, putting down her fork and wiping her mouth with her napkin.
"What did ya say it was?" Jake asked.
"Minced beef corncake," Michaela replied, "and of course collard greens and biscuits."
"Mmm," Katie added, causing everyone at the table to laugh at her adorable smile and childish antics.
"For dessert, we have apple dumplings," Michaela announced. "Why don't we retire to the living room, and I'll bring dessert out to everyone," she suggested.
"I'll clear the dishes, Ma," Brian offered.
"Thank you, Brian. You can feel free to join us when you're done."
"All right, Ma," he replied.
Michaela followed him into the kitchen, taking a few plates with her and setting them on the counter next to the sink before picking up the basket of apple dumplings, placing it on a tray with the coffeepot and cups, and returning to the other room to join everyone again.
"That Mama's chair," Michaela heard Katie say.
"Katie," Michaela reprimanded quietly. Turning to Teresa, she smiled. "I'm sorry, Mrs. Slicker."
"No, Dr. Quinn, it is all right. Jacob and I will sit over here," she replied, gesturing to the the two chairs Sully brought from the table.
Once everyone was seated, Michaela poured coffee and passed the cups around to the adults. The children were given small cups of milk to go with their dumplings. Everyone was silent for a few moments as they watched Colin and Katie sit on the rug in front of the fireplace and eat their dessert with their milk. Colin looked up at Teresa and Jake and smiled, and Michaela and Sully shared a silent glance.
Jake cleared his throat. "Ya know, Teresa and me are real glad ya asked us over, cuz there's somethin' we wanted to discuss with ya," Jake began, after swallowing his first bite of dumpling and taking a sip of coffee.
Michaela looked at Jake and noticed the serious expression on his face, wondering if her first thoughts of what he wanted to discuss were incorrect. "It's nothing serious, I hope! Nothing to do with the town, is it?" Michaela asked, worried.
"No, no, nothin' serious," Jake reassured her. "It's just that Teresa and me, well, we really liked havin' Colin around for the few days he was with us."
"He is a very good little boy," Teresa added.
"Yes, he is," Michaela agreed.
"Well, we was wonderin', that is..." Jake paused, battling within himself on how to ask and wondering how his request will be received. "It'll only be for a little while to start, see how things go...and well, what we wanna know is..."
"Jacob and I would like Colin to come stay with us," Teresa finished for him.
Colin's head snapped up when he heard his name, followed by Teresa's request. His glance darted back and forth from Michaela and Sully to Jake and Teresa.
Sully reached out and took Michaela's hand in his, and Michaela set her cup of coffee on the table between the wingback chairs. Placing her other hand on top of Sully's, she slid forward in her chair and looked from Colin to Jake and Teresa.
"I must confess this doesn't exactly come as a surprise to us," Michaela began.
"It don't?" Jake asked, confused.
"Not at all," she replied, glancing over at Sully. "In fact, Sully and I have both seen you with Colin, and we've seen Colin with both of you. He's opened up to you both like he hasn't opened up to anyone, other than our family, and perhaps Sarah."
"He found a special place in my heart the moment he entered my school," Teresa admitted.
"We've talked about it and all, and it's just too quiet around our place without him around. It was real nice havin' him with us, and if he's willin' to try it out, we're willin' to have him," Jake continued.
"Of course, this would have to be all right with both of you," Teresa added, looking at both Michaela and Sully. "Dr. Quinn, Mr. Sully, we do not wish to intrude in any way. This is why we are asking you first before proceeding with any arrangements."
"Well, I'd say it's up to Colin, more than it's up to us," Sully said. "Come right down to it, he's the one makin' the decision."
"Yes, yes, of course," Teresa agreed. "It would be Colin's decision, but we did not want to ask him before asking you," she reiterated.
"We appreciate that, Mrs. Slicker, Jake," Michaela replied. "Colin has become very special to us in the time he's been with us, but we have to admit, it's been very nice to see him become so attached to you both in such a short amount of time. I have a feeling the three of you will do nothing but help each other."
"So, it is all right with you for us to ask this?" Teresa questioned.
Sully shrugged. "Sure it is," he answered for them both.
"Sully is right, however. It is up to Colin," Michaela added.
Jake turned to face Colin, who had been listening intently to the entire conversation. "So, how about it? Wanna come stay with Miss Teresa and me?"
Colin looked at Jake and Teresa, and he almost jumped right up and ran to them, but then he looked back at Katie, and finally up at Michaela and Sully. "Do you not want me no more?" he asked in a soft voice.
Michaela saw the evidence of tears beginning to form in his eyes and pulled her hand from Sully's to reach out towards the little boy. "Of course we do, Colin," she reassured him, and he immediately came running to her, throwing himself into her arms. "We love you, all of us. We don't want to make you feel like you have to leave. This is your decision. It is entirely up to you, and we will go along with whatever you want."
Colin sniffed once and raised his teary eyes to look into Michaela's face. "You mean I get to pick all for myself?" he asked, surprised.
"Yes, of course," Michaela answered. "After all, it's not something anyone else can decide for you."
"But, will I still get to see you?"
"Colin, you may come and visit as often as you like," Teresa assured him.
"And you know Katie's always with me at the clinic after school. You can come and see us and Sarah anytime you wish," Michaela added.
"Col-win leaving?" Katie chimed in from the rug.
Sully reached out his arms, and the little girl shakily stood to her feet, then ran to him, immediately snuggling against him when he lifted her into his arms.
"Mr. and Mrs. Slicker want Colin to live with them," Sully explained.
"Why?" the little girl asked, putting her thumb into her mouth.
"Katie, do you know how we have Brian and you and sometimes Matthew or Colleen and Andrew here with us to keep us company?" Michaela asked. When Katie nodded, she continued. "Well, Mr. and Mrs. Slicker would like to have Colin at their home to keep them company," she explained.
"They pr-way for Col-win to come?" Katie asked, innocently.
The adults chuckled at her childlike innocence.
"Yes, Katie," Teresa replied. "We prayed and asked God for a little boy."
"Col-win little boy," Katie stated.
"Yes, he is, sweetheart," Michaela agreed. "That's why Mr. and Mrs. Slicker have asked Colin to come live with them."
Katie looked at the adults, then at Colin. "All right," she said, simply, accepting the explanation.
"Will you be my new mama and papa?" Colin asked of Teresa and Jake.
They exchanged glances, and Jake reached out to take one of Teresa's hands in his.
"We don't know that, Colin, and we didn't wanna ask ya that too soon," Jake replied. "Miss Teresa and me talked about it, and we would like, if you would."
"That's all right with you?" Colin looked up at Michaela.
She smiled and rubbed his back, then gave him a quick hug. "Yes, Colin. If it's what you want, it is all right with me."
"All right. Yes," he said, turning back to look at both Teresa and Jake. "I wanna come live with you and be your little boy. My mama loved me a lot, but she's in heaven watchin' me, and I need a new mama and papa," Colin stated.
Teresa and Michaela both wiped their eyes at his simple, yet profound reasoning. Jake squeezed Teresa's hand, and Michaela hugged Colin once more, before setting him down on the floor in front of her chair. He immediately took the few steps towards Teresa, and buried his head against her skirts. She reached down and placed a loving hand on his back and moved it in a circular motion.
"Well, that was actually the easy part," Jake said after a moment of silence in the room. "Now we gotta figure out the legal stuff involved to make this all work."
"Yes, you're correct, Jake," Michaela agreed.
"Well, it's not all that hard," Sully added. "Michaela and me have been through this before, remember? With the Cooper kids?"
"Sure I do," Jake replied. "I remember ya had to put a notice in two papers, lookin' for their pa, and if he didn't reply, the kids were yours." He paused and looked at Colin, wondering if he should continue with his thoughts.
Michaela noticed his hesitation and immediately knew where his thoughts were leading. "Katie, why don't you take Colin to the kitchen table and ask Brian for some paper and coloring pencils. Draw Mama a pretty picture, all right?"
"Yes, Mama," Katie replied. "Down, Papa," she asked, wiggling from Sully's lap and sliding to the floor. "Come on, Col-win. Let's go!" she stated, holding out her hand towards the little boy.
Colin moved away from Teresa and took Katie's hand, walking with her into the kitchen. Once they were out of earshot, Jake continued.
"See, I remember all that, but this time it's different. We know Colin ain't got any living parents."
"Yes, we do know that," Michaela agreed.
"But, what about any other relatives, maybe an uncle or grandparent?" Sully suggested.
"Gotta admit, I didn't think of that," Jake replied.
"Could we not ask Mr. Simon about the laws for this, and ask Mr. Bing to send telegrams for us?" Teresa interjected.
"Sure we could," Jake answered. "I guess I could go around askin' folks to help out. Sure ain't gonna be no secret for long. Don't see the point in keepin' it a secret, either."
"Why don't we all work together and each take a task?" Michaela suggested. "That way, we can speed up the process and perhaps get an answer back sooner."
"This is a very good idea, Dr. Quinn," Teresa began. "Unfortunately, I am unable to leave my school and my students during the day."
"You may not have to, Mrs. Slicker," Michaela stated.
"Michaela?" Sully quizzically replied.
"Well, from what I can gather, we only need to talk to Horace, Daniel and Dorothy. I can speak with Dorothy, since she's right next door to the clinic," she offered.
"And I can stop by and see Daniel," Sully added. "Jake, you could send a telegram or two with Horace."
"Sure," Jake agreed.
"It appears to be all settled," Michaela observed.
Teresa raised her cup to take another sip of coffee, then placed her cup back on its saucer and looked at Michaela and Sully. "I want to thank you both for helping us."
"We're glad to help, Mrs. Slicker." She briefly looked over at Sully, before turning back and facing Teresa. "Sully and I both know that you and Jake care very much for Colin, and we know you will give him a good home. Anything we can do to help make that a reality, we will do."
* * * * *
"It says here that I gotta make a formal request in writin' to the legal courts in Denver," Jake announced to Michaela the next day at the clinic. "Says if the parents are dead, I gotta prove we're fit to be parents and have the circuit court judge rule in favor of the decision."
Michaela noticed the look of concern on Jake's face and quickly reassured him. "Jake, I know this seems like a lot, but believe me, it's all quite routine. There's nothing at all that will give the courts any reason to see you as an unfit father, and most of the investigation, as they call it, is completed in a very discreet manner. They ask you and Mrs. Slicker a few questions, perhaps speak to some of your friends, check on any criminal past you may have, and it's all finished."
"But, Dr. Mike, what about my drinkin'? I ain't touched a drink in over a year, but if they start talkin' to folks, they might find out about it, and then what'll happen?"
"Jake, those of us who know you well enough to be considered friends, know enough to not tell them about things which are part of your past. We all know this is the best thing for you both, and Colin. We're not going to do anything at all to jeopardize this adoption in any way," she assured him.
"Thanks, Dr. Mike," Jake replied. "I can't tell ya how much Teresa and me appreciate your help."
"It is my pleasure, Jake." She closed the folder on her desk and stood to her feet. "Now, I don't have another patient expected for a little over an hour. Would you like to come with me to see Dorothy?" she invited. "We can have her print up the notice to be sent to the two papers about any members of Colin's family?"
"Sure, Dr. Mike," he accepted.
Michaela untied her apron and hung it on the hook by the window, then grabbed her shawl and wrapped it around her shoulders. Leading the way outside, she paused as Jake pulled the door closed, then they both walked around the front of the clinic to the Gazette office.
"Good morning, Dorothy," Michaela called upon entering.
"Oh, good mornin', Michaela. Jake," Dorothy replied when they both entered, turning from the printing press where she was working. "What brings the two of you here this mornin'?"
"You remember my telling you about Colin?" Michaela began.
"Yes, what about him?" the redhead replied.
"Well, Jake and Teresa are going to request adoption?" she stated, without preamble.
"Oh, Jake, that's wonderful!" Dorothy exclaimed, turning her eyes towards Jake. "I knew there was somethin' special between you two the moment I saw you both together. You and Mrs. Slicker deserve somethin' like this!" She paused a moment and looked at them both. "Now, what can I do to help?"
"Well, I been readin' these laws, and it says I gotta put a notice in two different papers, askin' about any of Colin's relatives that might be around somewhere. Thought you might be able to tell me which ones would be the best ones to do that," Jake replied.
"Of course! This is just like when Michaela and Sully requested adoption for the Cooper children, so I'm very familiar with the process." She turned to retrieve a pad of paper from the desk by the wall, wiped her hands on her apron, and picked up a pen to make notes. "Now, do you know anythin' about any other family, Jake?"
"No, not a thing. Colin don't talk much, except about his ma and pa, and it's usually his ma. I ain't ever heard him mention any other family."
"Michaela?" Dorothy looked at her. "Has Colin said anythin' when you've been around him that might help us know where to put the notices?"
"Nothing at all, Dorothy," Michaela replied. "I was barely able to get him to talk about the night the accident happened and about what he remembers of his mother and father, let alone asking him about any other family. From what the neighbors say, there never was any other family who came to visit, and no one in town seems to know anything, either, no even Loren."
"Well, if that's the case, I think our only options are Denver and perhaps New York. I can get a notice sent out today," Dorothy stated.
"Thanks, Dorothy," Jake replied.
"My pleasure, Jake," Dorothy answered, reaching out her hand to shake his. "I wish you both the best of luck with this. Anythin' I can do, you just ask."
"Sure will," Jake said, then turned towards the door. "Well, I best be headin' over to see Horace. Gotta get a telegram sent to the courts in Denver and mail this letter they tell me they need."
"Good luck, Jake," Michaela called as he left.
"Michaela, can you believe it? Jake requestin' adoption of a little boy? I never thought I'd see the day!"
"I know, Dorothy. Sully and I knew there was something special about Colin's relationship with them both, and we knew we wouldn't be able to keep Colin for an unknown amount of time, but we really didn't expect them to pursue adoption this quickly," Michaela replied.
"Well, I'm real happy for them both. Jake needs that little boy, and Mrs. Slicker does, too. They're all gonna do each other a world of good," she stated.
"Yes, I couldn't agree more," Michaela agreed. "Now, I still have a few moments before I must return to the clinic. Why don't you show me what you were working on when we interrupted you," she requested.
"Oh, it's nothin', and believe me, I welcomed the interruption," Dorothy assured her.
"What is it?"
"Well, you know how Preston started that move towards gettin' that lumber mill of his built?"
"Yes," Michaela replied. "Sully and I spent a lot of time talking about what it will mean to this town when that happens, but we also realized there was nothing we were going to do to stop it from happening. It's not like stopping him from building a hotel in town. He owns that land, and there's nothing we can do to keep him from doing as he pleases."
"I know, and since he's payin' good money for this ad, I ain't got a choice but to run it."
"Is it an announcement of sorts?" Michaela asked.
"Yes. He told me yesterday that his mill should be open in two weeks time. Once that happens, there's no tellin' what he'll do after that."
"Well, as long as he keeps his enterprises on his own land, our town won't have any cause to be disturbed by him."
"You're right, Michaela, but you and I both know it ain't gonna stop him from tryin'," Dorothy observed.
"Yes, I know." Michaela sighed, looking at the clock on the wall. "Well, I should return to the clinic. I still have some cleaning to do, and I want to take a look at the file on my next patient before he arrives."
"I should be gettin' back to work, too," Dorothy announced. "Have a good day, Michaela."
"You, too, Dorothy," Michaela returned, pulling her shawl around her as she left the Gazette.
* * * * *
"Now, lemme get this straight," Horace began, "You wanna send this telegram tellin' them you're sendin' them a letter, just like they asked?"
"Yeah, that's what I told ya," Jake replied, a little impatiently.
"Why dontcha just send the letter. No sense sendin' them both." Horace tried to understand.
"Because I wanna let them know the letter is on its way. They said once they knew that, they could get things moving in their offices, and I don't wanna waste no time," Jake explained.
"Oh, all right. Well, what do ya want the telegram to say?"
"Just tell them who I am and that just like they asked me to do, I'm sendin' an official letter that Teresa and me signed, and they can go ahead and start the next step," Jake replied.
"An this is goin' to the District Court in Denver?"
"Yeah, that's right."
"All right, Jake. I'll get this sent right away," Horace assured him, then looked at the letter. "Now, you gonna need a stamp for that?"
"Yeah, one stamp, and you can send it with today's mail, if it ain't too late."
"Nah, mail ain't come in yet, so you still got time."
"How much do I owe ya?" Jake asked.
"Uh, that'll be one penny for the stamp, and fifteen cents for the telegram," Horace replied.
Jake handed him the money. "Thanks, Horace."
"Anytime, Jake. Glad I can help." Horace looked around Jake to the next customer in line. "Can I help you?"
Jake stepped away from the window, feeling very hopeful about everything for the first time in a long time.
* * * * *
Sully stepped up to the jailhouse door and knocked.
"Come in!" Daniel called from inside.
He turned the knob and pushed, then stepped inside. "Hey, Daniel," he greeted. "Matthew, glad you're here, too," he added when he saw the young man, leaning over Daniel's desk.
"Sully!" Daniel stated in surprise, reaching across his desk to shake hands. "What brings ya over here?"
"Well, I'm doin' a favor for Jake, and I need ya to look up some things for me," Sully replied, not wasting any time.
"Sure thing, Sully, what do ya need?" Daniel offered.
"Well, I ain't sure if you've heard, but Jake and Miss Teresa are wantin' to adopt Colin, and Michaela and me are helpin' them get what they need to make that happen," Sully explained.
"That's great, Sully! No, I ain't heard nothin' about it, but I'll do what I can."
"Have they sent their request to the district court in Denver?" Matthew asked.
"Yep," Sully replied. "Jake did that this mornin', and Michaela talked with Dorothy about the two notices in the paper, askin' about any family Colin might have."
"That's good. At least they're doin' things by the book," Matthew stated.
"Well, we need to see if there's any records anywhere of any other family," Sully continued, "maybe listed in the Salinger's personal papers or somethin' they might've kept around the place. Somethin' ya mighta seen when ya went out there and searched the place for their belongin's?"
"Well, actually, I never found any form of a will that would name any other family or guardians," Daniel told him.
"And since there isn't one, all of their possessions become the property of the state, or in this case, our town," Matthew added.
"What about Colin?" Sully asked.
"Normally, he would be placed in the care of an orphanage, but since Jake and Miss Teresa are willin' to adopt him and take him into their home, we can overlook that small part for now," Matthew replied.
"Is there any ways we can check on any other family?" Sully wanted to know.
"We can have Horace wire Denver and check with the courts there for their birth certificates," Daniel suggested. "That'd be the only official evidence without there bein' a will of any kind."
"What about the deed to the cabin?" Matthew asked.
"Already checked. Seems he built the place himself," Daniel answered.
"And the land?" Sully added.
"Out here, you work it, you own it," Daniel said, simply.
"Daniel's right," Matthew echoed. "There ain't no laws statin' otherwise, unless you buy it from someone else. Then, a deed comes into play."
"So, other than a birth certificate from the hospital where Colin's folks were born, there ain't nothin' else around that'll tell us if there's any other family?"
"You got it, Sully. I'll have Horace wire the courts, but like you said, Jake and Miss Teresa's done about they need to do to make this thing work."
"Now, we just wait," Matthew stated with finality.
* * * * *
"Congratulations, Jake and Miss Teresa!" Robert E heralded.
"We just heard the news not too long ago. Thought everyone could use a bit of celebratin'!" Grace added.
"Thanks, Grace," Jake replied. "We just received word this mornin'," Jake announced to everyone gathered at the café. "The adoption went through!"
A chorus of cheers and congratulations went up from the crowd gathered that evening. Most were friends of Jake and Teresa, but there were some customers who just happened to be enjoying their supper when the celebration began.
"So, Jake, how's it feel to be a pa?" Hank called.
"Real good, Hank. Real good," Jake replied.
"I never thought I'd see the day that Jake'd wanna be a pa," Loren remarked with a chuckle.
"Well, I'm sure he'll make a fine father to Colin, and Miss Teresa will make a fine mother," Reverend Johnson added.
"Thanks, Reverend." Jake reached out and took his hand to shake hands with him. "And thanks to all of ya who helped us, especially Dr. Mike and Sully. We owe you a lot!"
"It was our pleasure, Jake," Michaela replied.
"Here's to success!" Loren called to the group, raising his coffe cup and encouraging everyone else to raise their cups, as well. "To Jake and Teresa and Colin! The best of luck to the new family!"
"Here, here!" everyone echoed, drinking to the toast.
"Jacob," Teresa whispered, and Jake leaned down to hear her. "I am going to sit with Colin."
"You all right, Teresa? You're not sick or nothin' are ya?" he asked, concerned.
"No, Jacob. I am fine. It is only that I do not like being the center of attention in such a large group of people," she explained.
"No problem. Everyone else'll understand, too," he assured her with a smile.
She smiled in return, then rose quietly and joined Colin two tables away.
"Colin, how are you doing?" Teresa asked the little boy, after sitting down next to him.
He looked up at her and gave a half-smile. "I'm good," he replied, looking around at everyone gathered in the café.
"You do not like a lot of people, do you?" He shook his head. "I do not like large groups. It is why I have come to sit with you. I hope you do not mind?"
"No, you can sit with us," Colin replied. "Right, Katie?" He turned to the little girl across the table from them.
"Yes, Col-win," Katie answered. "I like Miss Trees."
Teresa smiled at the little girl's pronunciation of her name, then looked up and saw Michaela approaching their table. "Dr. Quinn." She nodded.
"Good evening, Mrs. Slicker. I'm sorry for stepping away for a moment from the children. I hope they haven't been too much trouble," she apologized.
"Not at all, Dr. Quinn. I came here to be away from the many people. I am not very fond of crowds," she explained.
"I certainly understand that." Michaela nodded.
"You, Dr. Quinn?" Teresa asked, surprised. "I would think you enjoy large crowds."
Michaela dipped her head in minor embarassment. "Well, I do tend to speak to large gatherings of people, but that doesn't necessarily mean I'm comfortable in them. In fact, I prefer to be left alone to do my work without everyone making a big fuss over me."
"Yes, I do agree with you. It is why I am here and not with Jacob. I know this is a very important moment, but I cannot bring myself to join him right now." She sounded almost remorseful.
"Mrs. Slicker, it's all right. I know Jake understands, as do all of our friends gathered here," Michaela reassured her. "You spend most of your days with children, so it's only natural that you'd be more comfortable around them."
"Yes, you are correct, Dr. Quinn. I only do not wish people to think I am not happy with everything," she continued.
"I can assure you they think no such thing. You have been with our town for almost four years. In that time, many of us have come to know you, and no one is going to fault you for wanting to be with Colin at this time." Michaela turned to face the little boy. "Besides, I know Colin appreciates the extra company." She smiled.
"Dr. Mike, can Katie and I have a piece of pie?" Colin asked.
"Pie, pie!" Katie exclaimed, bouncing on the bench and clapping her hands.
"Katie," Michaela quietly reprimanded.
"I sorry, Mama," the little girl dutifully replied.
"I don't mind if Katie has a piece, since she did finish her supper, but...." she paused and turned to face Teresa. "Mrs. Slicker?" she asked, leaving the decision regarding Colin up to the other woman.
"I do not mind," Teresa stated, after a brief pause.
"Lydia?" Michaela called to the young woman.
"I'll get it, Dr. Mike," Lydia replied. "Would you both like a piece, too?"
"Yes, thank you," Michaela answered.
"Thank you," Teresa echoed.
Once the pie was served, Michaela helped Katie by cutting it into small, bite-size pieces, then turned her attention to her own piece.
"We must not be too long, here. There is still much to do this evening," Teresa said between forkfuls.
"You're right," Michaela agreed, turning to look at the crowd dispersing. "It looks like most everyone is departing. It won't be long, now," she stated.
Colin looked back and forth between both women, but remained silent as he ate his pie.
* * * * * * * * * *
"I believe that's everything," Michaela announced, coming down the stairs with a carpetbag of clothes. "We included some of his favorite clothes of Brian's from when Brian was little, and of course, his new ones from the store."
"Thank you, Dr. Quinn. These will be fine," Teresa replied.
"Don't forget this," Brian added, handing the soft, quilted blanket to Colin.
Teresa noticed the intitials stitched in the one corner and read them aloud. "C-J-S?"
"Colin Joshua Salinger," Michaela replied.
"Mama called me CJ," Colin offered, quietly.
"That is a very nice nickname," Teresa stated, smiling down at Colin. "I know it is very special to you, and we will only call you that if you wish."
Colin only nodded, holding the blanket close and rubbing it against his cheek. He looked back at Michaela, Sully, Brian and Katie, and tears began to form in his eyes.
"Why you cr-wy, Col-win?" Katie asked him. She toddled over to him and lifted her hand to his face to catch the tear that fell down his cheek.
"I'm gonna miss you," Colin answered, honestly.
"Hug?" she asked, lifting her hands towards him.
Colin sniffed back his tears and leaned down to allow Katie to give him a hug. He gave her one, as well, then straightened once more.
"We not go away," Katie stated. "Why you miss us?"
"I'm goin' to stay with Mr. and Mrs. Slicker," Colin replied.
"But, you still here. You see me at Mama's work," she told him, simply.
"I know, but I'll still miss seein' you all the time," Colin continued.
"I miss you, too," Katie said. "I like to play with you."
"Colin, you'll just have to promise to come visit us after school, if that's all right with Mrs. Slicker?" Michaela interjected.
"Of course it is," Teresa agreed. "Going to the clinic after school does not have to change. If Dr. Quinn and Sarah do not mind, I do not mind you going with them until Mr. Slicker and I can be with you."
"I can still play with them?" Colin still wasn't accustomed to being allowed to make choices on his own or to have adults treating him so nicely. It was going to take a lot to get used to it.
"Sure, ya can, Colin," Jake added. "Don't see any reason why what ya do after school's gotta change. When you like, you can even come see me at the barber shop."
"All right. That'll be fun." Colin nodded.
"Now, we must be leaving. We do not want to be very late getting home," Teresa stated.
"Goodbye, Dr. Mike. Goodbye, Mr. Sully," Colin said, taking a few steps towards Michaela.
Michaela stooped down and wrapped her arms around him in a warm hug. "We will miss you, but we know you're going to a very good home," she assured him. "And like we said, you're not going very far, so you can come and see us whenever you like."
"I will," he promised, turning slowly to face Sully and tentatively holding out his hand.
Sully grasped it, quickly, then released it. "Bye, Colin. Have fun."
"Thank you," Colin replied.
"Bye-bye, Col-win. Miss you," Katie added.
Colin blew her a kiss, and she did the same. The adults smiled at the two children, before Teresa placed a coat around Colin and gently led him towards the door.
"Sully." Jake reached out his hand to shake with Sully. "Thanks, again."
"Sure thing, Jake," Sully replied, returning the handshake. "You're gonna do just fine."
"We'll be more than happy to have Colin join us once in a while, if you ever feel the need for a break," Michaela offered.
"Sure, Dr. Mike," Jake agreed. "See ya around," he called, following Teresa and Colin out the door and closing it behind him.
"Now, it's time for bed, little one," Michaela announced, turning towards Katie.
"Stor-wy!" the toddler demanded.
"Only if you're a good girl and do as your mama says," Sully added.
"Yes, Papa," Katie replied.
"Sure ain't gonna be the same around here without him," Brian stated.
"No, it won't, but we will still see him in town and at church," Michaela countered. "It won't be exactly the same, but I am happy for him, and for Jake and Teresa."
"Yeah, they're made for each other," Sully added. "All right, let's go, Kates! Up ya go!" he announced, lifting his daughter in his arms.
* * * * *
"Here we are!" Jake announced, setting the brake on the wagon in front of their home. He hopped down, then turned and helped Teresa from the wagon, who in turn, took Colin's hand as he climbed down. "I'll get the bags. You two go on in," he told them.
Colin willingly followed Teresa inside, seeing his new home with new eyes, even though he'd stayed there for several days not too long ago.
"It has been a very long day. I think it is best to go upstairs and get some sleep," Teresa suggested.
Colin didn't say anything, only nodded. He was too overwhelmed with so much change, not to mention the fact that this was where he would be living from now on. Compared to his little one-room cabin, this home was a mansion!
"This will be your new room, Colin," Teresa told him, leading him into a room, completely furnished with a bed, washstand, and chest of drawers. There was a rocking chair in the corner, a rug in front of the fireplace, and a stuffed bear on the pillow on the bed.
"This is all mine?" he asked in shock.
"Yes, it is. Mr. Slicker and I are right across the hall, and you know where the outhouse is," she explained.
"So, how do ya like it?" Jake asked, coming into the room with Colin's two bags.
"It's so big!" Colin exclaimed.
"Won't be long and you'll feel right at home, trust me," Jake reassured him.
Colin turned and ran to him, throwing his arms around Jake's legs. "Thank you, Mr. Slicker," he sobbed.
Jake pulled Colin's arms from around his legs and stooped down to Colin's level. "Hey there," he began, putting his finger under Colin's chin and lifting. "No cryin', all right?" he asked.
"And I would like very much if you called me ‘Miss Teresa', just like at school," Teresa added.
"You won't get mad?" Colin asked.
"No, I do not wish you to be confused, and it will be much easier to keep the same name," Teresa assured him.
"Mr. Slicker or even ‘Mr. Jake' is fine with me, whatever is good for you," Jake added.
"All right. Thank you, Mr. Slicker, Miss Teresa," he said.
"Now, climb on up here, and let's get you tucked in," Jake stated.
They both helped Colin change into his nightshirt, then Teresa pulled the covers up and around him and made sure he had his blanket with him. Kneeling beside the bed, they said quick prayers, and Teresa crossed herself before rising.
"Why do you do that?" Colin wanted to know, watching Teresa.
"It is a sign of the cross. It is to help us remember that God's Son died there," she explained.
"Mama told me about God. I'm glad you like Him, too," Colin said, simply.
"Good night, Colin. Sweet dreams." She smiled and leaned down to place a kiss on his forehead.
"See ya in the mornin'," Jake called, following Teresa out of the room and pulling the door almost closed behind him. "It's gonna be a big change, Teresa," Jake remarked as they walked into their room.
"Yes, but a good one, Jacob. A good one," she repeated and closed the door behind them both.
* * * * *
"I never would have believed it could happen, Sully," Michaela remarked, after Katie was in bed.
"Me, either," Sully agreed. "Who woulda thought that Jake and Miss Teresa would become so attached to Colin, not to mention him takin' a likin' to both of them so fast."
"I knew Mrs. Slicker cared a lot about him, but I thought it was only because Colin was one of her students, and I know she cares about each one of them, very dearly."
"Yeah, remember how she reacted with Brian and Anthony when she first became the teacher?" he asked from his kneeled position behind her, methodically running the brush through her long tresses.
"Of course. Brian couldn't stop talking about her," Michaela recalled. "He even learned some Spanish words from spending time with her. As I recall, Brian was also pivotal in getting Jake and Teresa together. Remember her broken fence?" Michaela smiled.
"Sure do. I remember talkin' with Brian about how to get a man to talk to a woman he likes," Sully remarked.
"Is that so?" Michaela grinned. "And what did you tell him?"
"Told him it just had to happen, but if it didn't, the man might need a little push from behind," Sully replied.
"And who gave you that push, Mr. Sully?" Michaela teased.
"The way I remember it, you were the one who needed the push," he returned.
"I believe we both needed a push towards each other," she corrected.
"All right, I'll give ya that," he conceeded.
"Of course, once we both took that first step, there was no turning back," she stated, describing their mutual attraction and connection to each other.
"Nope, and truth is, I wouldn't have it any other way!" he affirmed, leaning towards her and turning her head to meet her lips with his.
She sighed when they broke apart. "I do miss him, Sully," Michaela lamented.
"I know ya do. So do I," he confessed, not missing a beat in following her line of thought. He resumed brushing her hair as they talked.
"It just seems so quiet."
"Quiet? With Kates around?" Sully chuckled.
Michaela smiled. "That's true, but I also know Katie enjoyed having a playmate. There's such an age difference between her and Brian." She paused for a moment. "Oh, I know the two of them have a good time together, but I know she and Colin really did get along very well."
"Yeah, they did, and like you said, Colin didn't move very far. They'll still see each other, and from what Miss Teresa said, Colin might still be comin' to the clinic after school most days," Sully pointed out.
"Yes, I know. I only hope it's enough to satisfy Katie," Michaela replied.
"This ain't all about Katie, is it, Michaela?" Sully observed, wisely.
She didn't reply, just closed her eyes and sighed.
"Michaela?" Sully gently called. He noticed a tear escape from beneath her closed lids, so he set down the brush and moved around to her side, turning her around to face him. Tenderly wiping the tear with his finger, he softly caressed her cheek. "Michaela, tell me what's botherin' ya," he whispered.
Slowly, she opened her eyes and looked at him. Taking a deep breath, then expelling it, she began. "Oh, Sully, it's not that anything is bothering me, as much as it is life's circumstances."
"What do ya mean?"
"You remember how things were when we first got married?"
Sully couldn't help but grin at that thought. "Sure I do."
"I mean when I was afraid we might not be able to have children because I thought I was past my childbearing years?"
"Sure, but what's this got to do with...."
"For a long time, I thought having Katie was the cure. I thought giving you a little girl helped heal the past and the hurts and helped to bring you and me closer together."
"Michaela, havin' Katie means the world to me, but there ain't nothin' needed more than our love for each other to keep us together. You know that," he reassured her.
"Sully, I want to have another baby," she suddenly announced.
He was stunned speechless for a moment. That was the last thing he expected to hear from her lips, and yet she'd just said it. Had he heard right? Or was it just his imagination playing tricks on him? "Michaela? Did you just say what I think you said?" he asked, when he was able to recover his voice.
"Yes, Sully. I want to have another baby. I know there's a chance that it won't happen, and I know I am older now than I was when we tried with Katie, but having Colin here for these past few weeks only made me realize how much I want Katie to have a little brother or sister, closer to her age. I just feel like she's all alone and so separated from her older brothers and sister."
Throughout Michaela's explanation, a slow grin formed on Sully's face. He lifted one of Michaela's hands to his lips and placed a soft kiss on each of the fingers, his eyes never leaving her face. Clasping both of his hands around hers in her lap, he pushed up off his knees and moved his face closer to hers.
Just before their lips touched, he paused and smiled, looking into her eyes. "There ain't nothin' I can think of that I'd like better," he whispered, then covered her lips with his own, his hands leaving hers to frame both sides of her face as they moved back and lifted her hair slightly.
Slowly, he stood and drew her up with him, never breaking their kiss. His hands moved from behind her head to her back, as his arms drew her closer to him. She allowed her hands to wrap around his back and slowly slide up to entwine in his hair, as she drew his head closer to hers, enabling him to deepen their kiss.
Sully broke apart briefly, and both of them were breathing heavily, their hearts beating an erratic pace. He bent slightly and swung Michaela into his arms, before walking over to their bed and placing her on top of the bedclothes. He pulled his shirt over his head, tossing it on the chair where she had sat moments before, then joined her on their bed, rolling over her to the other side.
They both quickly slid beneath the covers, then Sully drew her into his arms, once again covering her lips with his. His lips trailed kisses across her cheek, back to her ear, then down her neck. Michaela shivered from his caresses, trailing her fingers up his back to trace his ear, smiling as she felt him shiver in return.
Sully pulled back only a little to look into her eyes, then his fingers found the strings of her nightgown, as he pulled and untied the bow. Pushing the material partways off her shoulders, he ran his fingers across her bare skin, then followed his touch with his lips, placing brief kisses where his fingers had been.
"Whether...or not...we...make...a baby," he whispered, in between kisses, "we sure can have fun tryin'."
Michaela caressed the side of his face, then lifted his head to gaze into his eyes. "I love you," she whispered, her voice thick with emotion.
"And I love you," he echoed before claiming her mouth with his own in a kiss. A kiss which shared all of their feelings for each other as they began their dance of love.
THE END