Author's Note: Well this has been getting more readers so I'm updating-thanks Jen23 and Freddo for your reviews
CONFRONTATIONS
Wednesday, November 12, 1980 7:45 AM
The morning sky was deep blue and the sun sparkled like a brilliant diamond scarab, in spite of the brisk mountain air. The ranch was two hours into the daily routine already; the horses in the stable already having been fed. Josh and Jim were in the corral next to the stables, exercising two gray colts in a circle with leads and Hank was busy brushing down Royal Majesty... a chestnut mare, the prime breeder of the ranch. She had been mated to a blue ribbon jumper, the stallion Midnight Rider, way back in late March and was due to drop her foal early spring. Hannah was making her way over from the bunkhouse to the main house, having finished feeding the hands and heading to the main house begin her day.
Hank called to his wife, "Hannah, where are you going to so all fired fast?"
She turned and answered over her shoulder, "Gonna see if Miss Julie wants to have some breakfast. She ate some supper last night and maybe she's got her appetite back."
"Okay, see you at lunch. Have a good day." He turned his attention back to brushing the mare...
Julie yawned and stretched waking up to bright sunshine streaming in from her window. She threw off the comforter and jumped from the bed, heading over to her closet to select her clothes. Once she made her selections, she gathered them together and opened the door to head to the bathroom. She was surprised when the door opened and Pete stepped out, showered, freshly shaved and dressed in a pair of jeans, a long-sleeved buttoned sport shirt and mountain boots. He looked ruggedly handsome as he smiled at her.
" 'Morning, honey," he said cheerfully.
" 'Morning to you too," she responded with a smile. "Did you sleep well?"
"Great...the bed's nice and comfortable."
"I'm glad...the bed's old, practically an antique...I don't exactly have luxury accommodations." Julie appeared somewhat embarrassed. "Life's a bit simpler out here."
"Julie," Pete admonished. "You can't be implying that I'm a snob...You should know better then to say something like that to me, of all people," he responded in a slightly hurt tone.
"I know, I'm sorry," she apologized. "I didn't mean it that way." She shook her head in consternation.
Pete sought to allay her fears. "Like I said I slept great; like a baby...You headed for the shower?" he inquired as he noticed her clothes draped on her arm.
"Yeah, I am. Why don't you head downstairs to the kitchen? I'll be done in about twenty minutes, so why don't you go get a cup of coffee? I'm sure Hannah's already there and has some waiting." Julie started into the bathroom as Pete stepped aside for her. "I'll meet you down there."
"Okay, I'll do that. But before I do could I use the phone? I need to check with the office and my mother. She's standing in for me at a board meeting this afternoon," Pete requested.
"Sure, you can use the phone in the study. It's private," she finished as she closed the door.
Pete descended the stairs, retrieved his briefcase and headed into the study. It, like the rest of the house was eclectic in its setup, displaying the right amount of rustic flavor amidst modern efficiency. Pete seated himself in the brown leather swivel chair behind the desk and placed his briefcase before him to open it. He withdrew his address book from it and began thumbing through to locate the numbers he needed then picked up the phone and called his mother first, to briefly go over strategy for the meeting. Having been told of Pete's absence at the meeting she was not at home so he tried the radio phone in the Rolls. It was there he was able to reach her...
"Good morning, mother."
Grace's voice crackled over the connection, "Good morning to you too."
"Thanks for covering for me at the board meeting this afternoon. I'm sorry but I just had to take care of this. Have you spoken to Phil?"
"He told me the basics about the deal with Fairchild. And I have to say this, your father would be very proud of you right now, Pete."
Pete smiled slightly and said, "Phil said the same thing to me yesterday."
"That's high praise...You should know that your father held Phil in high esteem, he was your father's right-hand man."
"I know."
"And your father looked at him like a son," Grace said. "He also let on that he's concerned about you."
Pete sighed. "He really shouldn't be."
"He's just voicing what I've said to you since your brief return to your former life last year. Your attitude when you came back spoke volumes, seeing your old friends again," Grace pointed out.
"They are far more than friends... For a long time they were my family," he stated.
"So, does this have to do with Linc...or Julie?."
Pete murmured, "Julie."
"I see," Grace said in resignation. "Well, I can't say I'm surprised...just be careful. You've been through a lot recently, with the company changes and the finalizing of your divorce. Don't bite off more than you can chew."
Pete heaved a sigh figures that Phil would recruit my mother into the guilting cause "Mother, this is something important to me...something I need to do. So please, don't worry."
Grace sighed as the line grew noisy with static. "Alright...you're a grown man. Just check in with me and keep me informed.
"Okay...I'll stay in touch."
He gave then her the number there at Julie's, without telling her whose number it was; just that he could be reached there in case there was an emergency.
Since his father's death and his divorce, Pete spent a lot of time at the family estate in Beverly Hills and he and his mother had gotten closer than they had ever been but there still was some reluctance on his part to totally confide in her about last year's reunion with his former colleagues and his rediscovered feelings for Julie. To her credit, Grace Cochrane didn't push her adult son for information about his personal matters. But she knew he came back different...as if he wanted to go to that time in his life. He continued to do a stellar job handling the family business now that he had inherited his father's role as CEO, but she could tell where his heart truly was.
As Grace had last year in Pete's absence from the business, she had the writ of proxy in his absence to make decisions at board meetings. His father had also left her second controlling interest. She agreed to do as Pete asked pertaining to the meeting and didn't press further about where he was and why, for which he was grateful. He hung up and dialed the office in Beverly Hills, Phil Adamson's private line.
"This is Adamson," he intoned.
"Hi, Adamson, this is Cochrane," Pete responded, just as businesslike.
"Hey, Pete, it's about time," Phil admonished. "I tried to get you at your beach house but there was no answer. Captain Osborne said he had flown you to Monterey Peninsula then you took off. I was about to report you as a missing person. Where are you?"
"I was going to stay at an inn in Salinas but Julie asked me to stay here at the ranch with her. Her daughter is spending the next few days with some friends and she didn't want to be alone," Pete informed him.
"Oh really? Sounds cozy," Phil replied a slightly sly manner.
"Hold it right there, Phil. I told you before that I'm here as a friend, to help my good friend and nothing more. So knock off the insinuations, okay?" Pete ordered, annoyed.
"Sorry, I was just trying to be funny."
"Yeah right." Pete grunted. "Stick to business 'cause you're no Johnny Carson."
Don't get so sensitive about it," Phil replied in a conciliatory tone. "Did you brief your mother on the issues that are going to be discussed at the meeting?"
"Uh-huh, I just got finished talking to her. I told her to touch base with you before the meeting. Just make sure a copy of the minutes is available to me when I come back. Which reminds me...don't go to her with your worries about me."
"So she told you I spoke to her."
"Yeah...and I want you to stop. I can handle everything that I have to...just watch the fort until I come back."
Phil sighed and acquiesced, "Okay Pete. And when do you think that will be?"
"I don't know, Phil. There's something going on here that has me a bit puzzled. I just don't know what to make of it yet but I intend to stick around till I find out," Pete stated, determined.
"You're sounding like you're back on the police force, pal. Are you sure or is it because this involves Julie?" Phil pointed out.
Pete sighed exasperated, "You really are digging for dirt aren't you?"
Phil asked, "Well, aren't you?"
Pete explained in a patient tone, "Phil, she's all alone out here. Dan's parents are dead and she hasn't anyone really to look out for her. And Dan's business partner is acting very strangely. For one thing, he's very pushy. And for another thing, he's been extremely antagonistic towards me for no apparent reason. I may be ultra-sensitive but I smell a rat."
"Maybe you're too personally involved to see things objectively," Phil retorted.
"Yeah, maybe I am but I know one thing. If I left and anything happened to either Julie or her daughter I'd never forgive myself. Especially if I could do something to prevent it," Pete stated.
Phil gave up. He knew from working with Pete for the past four years that although he was a man gifted with his father's efficient and successful business acumen, he was also a compassionate, sensitive, and sometimes emotional man who took things very much to heart. When he returned from his recent brief reunion with his former co-workers from the Squad, he was different; dissatisfied, seemingly reluctant to be back at the office and very protective of his privacy.
He conducted business with the same cool efficiency and sharp people skills as always, but Phil could tell Pete's heart wasn't in it. Even though he wouldn't say so, Phil knew he missed working on the force and missed working with Linc and Julie. When he first began working at the office, he had told Phil one night over beers how close the three of them had been. And from that conversation, Phil knew that if either Linc or Julie were in trouble at anytime, regardless of what business he was involved in, Pete would drop everything to go and help them. Phil knew that where Julie was concerned especially, if there was even a scintilla of a possibility that she could be in trouble, Pete would not leave until he was absolutely sure she was okay. It was no secret to Phil that Pete was in love with her.
"Okay, Pete, I know better than to go on beating a dead horse. Just let me know when you plan to come back," Phil said resignedly. "I'll make sure you get a copy of the minutes for every meeting while you're gone."
"Thanks, Phil," he gave Phil Julie's phone number. "Just in case you absolutely need to contact me."
"Got it. And Pete?"
"Yeah?"
"Take care, okay?" Phil cautioned.
"I will. Thanks Phil," Pete said and hung up. He closed the address book, tossed it in the briefcase and closed it. He put the case down under the desk, then rose and entered the foyer. Julie was just coming down the stairs, clad in jeans, mountain boots, a black top and her hair tied back. She smiled a greeting.
"Have you had your coffee yet?" she asked as he stepped forward to take her elbow and guide her to the kitchen.
"Uh-uh. I was on the phone. I'll pay you for the calls 'cause they were all long distance in L.A.," Pete informed her.
"Oh Pete, that's not necessary. You've been such a lamb to come out here and bring me that check the least I can do is let you use the phone any time you need to," Julie said in an appreciative manner.
"Yeah but I shouldn't be running up phone bills for you at this time. And about the check, don't mention it. It's my pleasure. After all what are friends for?" he said easily as they entered the kitchen.
Hannah was in the kitchen, taking a pan of fresh baked blueberry muffins from the oven. She turned and smiled a greeting.
"Good morning, Miss Julie," her eyes widened slightly as she spotted Pete walking into the room with Julie. "Good morning Mr. Cochrane," she greeted him.
"Good morning, Hannah. And why don't you call me Pete? If I'm not in my office building and hear someone calling me that, I still think they are talking to my father even though he's passed," he said.
"All right Mr. Pete," Hannah shyly tried the name on for size. Pete smiled his approval.
"Hannah, Pete's going to be staying in the guestroom for a while so when you go upstairs, you'll have two rooms to make up," Julie informed her.
"Yes, Miss Julie. How about some breakfast for the two of you? The coffee's ready, the muffins are almost done and I can make you both some Western omelets."
"Just coffee and a muffin for me. But I'm sure Pete would like one of your famous Western omelets. Pete, you haven't lived till you've tasted one," Julie encouraged.
Pete grinned, "That sounds great, I'm hungry this morning."
The kitchen was roomy and cozy at the same time. It was flooded with sunlight, creating a welcoming cheerful atmosphere. It had a large modern gas range with an overhead oven and underneath oven, a stainless steel refrigerator with side by side doors, carved Dutch styled cupboards, above and below where china, glassware, and serving dishes were kept. A Formica topped counter ran the length of one side, along with the cupboards providing plenty of space for food preparation. The table and chairs were located at the end of the room in an alcove surrounded by windows and to the left of the alcove was the back door. Julie led Pete over to the table and invited him to sit while she took the seat across from him. Hannah brought over two mugs of coffee, a pitcher of cream, a sugar bowl, spoons, and a basket of warm blueberry muffins. She then went to the refrigerator to get the ingredients to begin preparing Pete's omelet.
Pete took a sip of his coffee after fixing it the way he liked it. Julie fixed her coffee and reached for a blueberry muffin, and began to nibble on it between sips of her coffee. Pete watched her with concern. He noticed the way her clothes hung loosely on her frame and frowned.
"Julie, you should have an omelet too. You're getting too thin. You barely ate anything at dinner last night," he pointed out gently.
"Pete, you worry too much," Julie said. "I'm just not that hungry lately."
"You have to eat... You're wasting away," he persisted.
Hannah came over with the omelet and put it in front of Pete. "Mr. Pete's right, Miss Julie. You're getting way too thin," she agreed with a look of consternation on her face.
Julie sighed, "Would the two of you please stop ganging up on me? I'm okay, I'm just not overly hungry," she protested. "But here, to make the both of you happy." She took a healthy bite of the muffin, and chewed theatrically with her cheeks puffed out comically. Both Pete and Hannah chuckled at her.
"Okay, sweetheart, we'll back off," Pete surrendered, winking conspiratorially at Hannah. "You've made your point."
Julie swallowed her mouthful and took a drink of coffee from her mug to help it along. She turned to Hannah, "Before I forget, Hannah, David Slade is coming for lunch and to go over the books with me. Could you fix something here before you go serve lunch at the bunkhouse?" she requested.
"Of course. Anything particular that you want me to fix?" Hannah asked.
"No. Just make it easy on yourself. Sandwiches or a casserole and a salad would be fine," Julie said noncommittally. She turned to Pete who was just finishing his breakfast. "Any special requests?"
He wiped his mouth with a napkin. "Not me. I may not be here at lunchtime anyway. I'm planning to drive into Salinas to run a few errands and be back about one."
Julie looked disappointed. "You're heading out right away, Pete? I wanted to give you the fifty cent tour of the ranch," she informed him.
"I'll take a rain check on that tour. Besides, you're going to be tied up with Slade and the books, aren't you?" Pete inquired, noticing her slight reluctance to see him leave. "I'll be back soon, honey," he promised.
"If you have to...But," she demurred.
"What's up, Julie? Do you want me to stick around while Slade's here?" Pete asked.
He was slightly puzzled but secretly glad because he didn't really want to go into town, he just decided to give her privacy in dealing with the contrary David Slade. Besides, he had definitely decided that he did not like David and if David was insistent or treated her with disrespect, he'd be more than happy to show him just how much he disliked him. And Pete felt that his getting into a fight with Slade would be the last thing Julie needed to deal with now. So Pete decided that discretion was the better part of valor and his absence would be better for all involved.
"Well, since you have developed quite a reputation as a businessman, perhaps you should sit in and give us some pointers," Julie said hopefully.
Pete said patiently, "Didn't you tell me Slade was Dan's business partner? I'm sure he knows what he's doing. But if you want me to stick around, okay. I'll just be a silent bystander."
Julie looked relieved by Pete's decision. She had in fact been avoiding David since the memorial service for Dan, because she had picked up a subtle but certain sign from him that as he wanted to take Dan's place in running the ranch, he also wanted to do the same in her life. Dan had told her how he and David were friends but competed for pretty much everything and David always wanted what Dan had. From the beginning, he made it clear to her that he was interested in her when Dan wasn't around. After Dan's death, he invited her to dinner a few times but she declined. And there was that one time when Dan had been away...
Julie shuddered inside as she pushed that unpleasant memory away. She realized that after that incident, she was polite to him as not to let Dan know. But after Dan's death, she had really making sure she kept her distance; making it a point to avoid him, staying out of the office in the stables, even though the books needed her attention. She gave Pete a grateful smile.
"Thanks so much, I really appreciate you changing your plans," she said, squeezing his hand.
Pete smiled fondly at her. "It's no problem, sweetheart. I can run errands tomorrow if you really need me here today. After all, I came up here to help you any way I can."
Julie consulted her watch. "It's about nine twenty five. David's not due till quarter of noon. How about that tour?" she suggested as she rose and headed for the door.
"Sure. Lead the way," he replied, getting to his feet and following her. He gallantly opened the door for her to walk through first, then trailed her outside...
The day was warming up, the sun shining brightly for November. They made their way across the yard and headed toward the barn. Julie walked up to the barn with Pete in tow. As they drew up to the barn, Pete glanced up and marveled at the height of the barn roof. The building itself was impressive, it was about as high as a three story building, for it was not just a conventional barn, but also a well designed stable for the eighteen horses that were housed there. Julie came to the weathered double door and she hesitated with her head down, reluctant to enter. Pete observed her reticence and instantly became concerned.
"Angel, what's wrong?" he wanted to know.
Julie smiled shakily. "I'm just a little scared I guess. Considering what happened here last month, I've avoided coming here since then until now," she whispered.
Pete took her elbow, "I'm here for you. Just lean on me, I'm not going anywhere." He put his arm about her waist and opened the door for her, accompanying her into the barn.
Julie cast her eyes upward to the rafters of the large barn. There was a trapdoor at the highest point, just above the hayloft. A ladder was leaning on the wall, probably used both for climbing into the loft and climbing to the ceiling Pete surmised. As there were lofts along both sides of the barn, he found it strange that there was only one ladder. Julie stood and continued staring at the trapdoor that was the entrance to the roof. She sighed deeply and brushed at a tear that had traveled down her cheek. Pete gently raised his hand to brush the tear away.
"This is the first time you came in here since the accident, huh?" he asked softly, a slight catch in his voice.
Julie nodded. "I haven't been able to bring myself to coming here. I just keep picturing Dan slipping and falling off of the roof, lying helpless. When Hank screamed for me to come that horrible day and I saw my husband, who was my rock on the ground-" She took a shaky breath and continued, "He was bigger than life to me...and any thought of him crumpled on the ground like he was that day has been unbearable. I just can't allow any thought of him other than what I remember before the accident. If I do, I'm going to lose my mind," she declared brokenly, her grief present and ready to flow forth afresh.
Pete gazed at her with sympathy and concern. His heart aching for her, he cupped her face in his hands, "I know it's painful, honey, but you need to let it out. You can't keep avoiding it or keep it bottled inside, 'cause it will kill you. You've a responsibility to not only your daughter but to you too. You know that's what Dan would've wanted, for you to carry on and to go on embracing life because that's who you are. That's who you have always been," he finished earnestly, his eyes searching deeply into hers.
At that moment Dan's nearly identical words that September evening echoed in her heart Promise me that when it does happen, you will go on and embrace life and find another love because you deserve it. And make sure whoever he is he sees it as the precious gift it is and you as the amazing person you are. Julie smiled tremulously, feeling almost as if Dan had spoken through Pete.
"You're right, Pete, I do have to go on. And I have to confront it. It's just that it hurts so much, I feel like I can't bear it," she whimpered.
"I know, baby, I know," he murmured, gently caressing her cheek.
Julie hurriedly wiped her cheeks, "Let's get out of here, please."
She took his hand and walked with him quickly to the entrance to the stable area. Jim and Josh were in two stalls side by side, brushing down the silver gray colts they had been exercising earlier. They looked up and saw her and Pete approaching. They both smiled shyly at her.
"'Morning Miss Julie. We were just finishing up here and we're gonna be exercising Ol' Red and Thunder. They haven't been out for a few weeks," Jim announced.
"Yeah, today's a great day for exercisin' all of 'em. 'Cept Firechief and Willow 'cause we took them out yesterday," Josh piped up.
"Pa's just finishing washin' Royal...he had her exercisin' too."
Both boys now in their late teens, were born on the ranch and had worked on the ranch since they were both old enough to walk. Through the years, they became accomplished riders and often entered competitions riding the horses representing the Bennett Ranch. Although Hank and Hannah had wanted both boys to attend college after they graduated high school, both had opted to work on and ride for the ranch until they had definitely decided what they wanted to do as far as a career. And with Dan's death, both had taken over to provide as much personal care with the horses as Dan himself had. Their father Hank, as head trainer was in charge of assigning the daily chores and tasks since Dan's passing; not only to Jim and Josh, but also to the three other hired hands that lived and worked at the ranch. Julie deeply appreciated the Travis family for they kept everything running as smoothly as Dan had.
"Hello boys. I'd like you to meet a very old and dear friend of mine, Pete Cochrane. Pete, these are Hannah and Hank's sons Jim And Josh," Julie introduced.
The boys looked at Pete and then hurriedly wiped their hands on their coveralls. "It's good to meet you, sir," they said in unison, each taking turns to shake his hand.
"It's good to meet you too, fellas," Pete replied jovially.
A gravelly voice, full of impatient authority groused, "What's takin' you boys so long? The horses in the corral need runnin' and the day's getting away from us. Your ma will be bringin' lunch up soon." Hank Travis strode over to where Julie, Pete and the boys were. Noticing that the boys weren't alone and who it was with them, he immediately changed his manner and his tone of voice.
"I'm very sorry, Miss Julie, I had no idea you were in here with the boys, or I wouldn't have carried on like that," he apologized.
Julie sought to ease his discomfort. "It's okay, Hank, I was just introducing them to my good friend Pete Cochrane. Pete, this is Hank, Hannah's husband and the backbone of this ranch," she presented Hank to Pete.
"It's a pleasure to meet you, Hank," Pete responded warmly, holding out his hand.
"Likewise, Mr. Cochrane," Hank said taking his hand and shook it. "My wife told me that you came here to help Miss Julie out. We sure appreciate that," he said sincerely.
"Thanks, Hank, but just call me Pete, okay? I told your wife at breakfast earlier that she should do the same. And you guys too," he gestured to Josh and Jim who grinned shyly.
We'll do that, Mr. Pete," Hank responded. He turned to the boys, "You two better get a move on. It's nearly a quarter to eleven," he commanded. Needing no further urging, the boys jumped out of the stalls and hustled out the back of the stable. Hank bowed his head apologizing again, "We're finishing running the other horses and should have all of 'em exercised and rubbed down by day's end," he assured Julie.
"I saw you out there taking care of Royal… How is she doing today?" Julie inquired.
Hank replied, "She's doing just fine. All our other mares are as well...Appetite's good, they're putting away plenty. The vet'll be out to check up on them right after Thanksgiving to make sure everything is all right with the foals.
"Thanks Hank. I was thinking about taking Daffodil for a ride tomorrow maybe," she informed him.
"Yes ma'am, she could use the exercise... we'll have her ready whenever you want her," Hank said. He turned to Pete, "You know how to ride, Mr. Pete?" he asked.
"It's been a long time since I did ride, but yes Hank, I do," Pete replied.
"Well, if you'd like to ride with Miss Julie tomorrow, we have a few for you to choose from. They're all well broke and gentle as kittens," Hank said proudly.
Pete grinned at him, "Thanks Hank, I may take you up on your offer,"
"Well, I better get a move on myself. Been nice meeting you," he said to Pete. Turning to Julie he nodded his head, "Miss Julie."
"Bye now Hank," Julie waved as he turned and headed out the back stable door. She turned to Pete, "Those people are the best. Since Dan's death, they've done everything they can to help me by making sure everything continues to run as smoothly as it did with him in charge."
Pete agreed, "They're good people, that's for sure."
"They're the best. Melissa adores the boys and they treat her like a little sister. Everyone here is like family even though they work here. Dan's dad and then Dan made sure of that," Julie stated as they made their way through the stables...
The first stalls they came across held four mares..all in the varied mid stages of gestation, they contained the potential future revenue of on which the ranch depended. Julie led Pete to the first stall where a dapple gray stood, nickering and softly pawing the ground as they came close.
Speaking softly, Julie rubbed her velvet nose to calm her down. "This is Lady Sterling. She's the youngest of the mares, only three and having her first foal, due around the end of March." She fed the horse a carrot, which was eagerly gobbled up.
They moved to the next stall where a sorrel with white stockings and soulful eyes stood gracefully. Julie rubbed her and fed her an apple. "This is Penny Annie...she's as old as Melissa, six, and is expecting her second foal. Her first is a yearling filly named Spring Daffodil, who I ride."
The next stall held a red roan...she butted Julie playfully causing her to chuckle. "Hey now! I know...I won't forget you, Berry." She fed her a carrot then turned to Pete and said, "This is Strawberry Fields...eight years old and feisty as they come." She rubbed her nose and added, "Once she has her treat, she's as sweet as sugar candy... Which, incidentally is one of her favorite treats. She's due in mid-April."
The fourth stall held a sleek, dark bay mare whose forehead bore a cream flame patch. She stood there, patient and stoic as Julie handed her an apple which she took with quiet dignity. "This is Cocoa-belle...she's ten years, born just after Dan returned from the war. She's had six foals over the years." Julie's eyes clouded as she added, "Unfortunately, two of them were stillborn and one she miscarried two months before she was about to deliver. Even though I don't ride her, she's my favorite...poor girl hasn't had it easy...she's due in late April if all goes well." She gently scratched Cocoa-belle's nose as the horse leaned into her.
Taking all of this in Pete smiled as he remarked, "I'm not surprised that she's your favorite...you always had a huge heart for those in need, especially."
Julie returned the smile. "Yeah...but so did you."
Eyes locked Pete picked up and squeezed her hand and brought it up to his lips.
The rustle and clip clop of hooves heralded a new arrival. Josh Travis had entered the barn leading a beautiful chestnut mare, her step lively and her bearing regal. Josh took her into the next stall, which was empty and waiting...
Julie and Pete came over."And this-," she said with a flourish. "-is the grande dame...Royal Majesty. The boys all call her Queenie." She stepped into the stall with another apple, which was accepted with queenly grace. "She's nearly 11 and her eight foals have become prizewinners in the last several years throughout the West"
"She's a beauty for sure," Pete said, as he stood watching Julie interact. He saw her talk to the Travis elder son, who nodded and began brushing the mare.
As soon as she finished giving Josh some additional direction she guided him through the rest of the stable. Julie pointed out to Pete each of the other horses that weren't outside: three geldings; all bays, Melissa's pinto pony, the filly called Spring Daffodil and three colts, two chestnut, one black.
While Julie talked and Pete listened to her talk animatedly about this horse and that as she did he was amazed at how at home she was, as if she had been at the ranch her entire life. Always extremely bright, Julie was expertly telling him of the individual bloodline of each steed in the voice of one who was both knowledgeable and familiar with horses. She also gave each horse individual affection in the form of a rub on the nose or an apple or carrot from a basket located at the end of the stable placed for that purpose.
What an asset she must have been to Dan Pete mused, because she had gained such knowledge about his livelihood, she must have truly been a partner to him in both his profession as well as his personal life. Pete couldn't help but feel a bit envious; because early in his own failed marriage, his wife had shown little interest in his work and even less as they grew apart. He started imagining what his life could have been had he had the good sense to marry Julie to begin with. He was certain she'd have been a true partner to him in every sense of the word and that thought captivated him as he listened intently to her.
When they got to the end of the last stall, Julie consulted her watch. Alarmed, she exclaimed, "It's almost quarter of noon! We'd better head back to the house, David will be here any minute."
She took Pete's hand and led him through the rear exit of the stable, which brought them past the stable office to the front of the bunkhouse. They turned and walked down the driveway that ran adjacent to the side of the stables and barn. Walking along side of the building, they quickly made their way past the long side. However, neither noticed the black pickup truck, which had pulled into the driveway from the road and was traveling down toward the barn at a moderate rate of speed.
As the truck rapidly approached, Julie had started to hurry across the driveway to cut across the backyard to head into house. Not paying attention, she nearly walked right into the path of the truck, which was continuing without stopping. Spotting the truck just before she could get struck by the hood; a horrified Pete ran up and grabbed Julie at the last moment, forcibly pulling her away out of the path of the oncoming pickup which screeched to a halt in a cloud of dust. Stunned, she looked up at Pete dumbly, not realizing what had almost happened.
"Are you all right, angel?" Pete asked worriedly as the driver's door to the pickup opened and David Slade jumped out and ran over to them.
Julie nodded cradled in his arms, still shaking. He looked at who it was who was so careless and when he saw that it was David he completely lost his temper and became furious.
"What the hell's the matter with you, Slade? Don't you ever look where you're going or do you drive with your eyes closed?" Pete snapped. "You almost ran over Julie!"
David was shaken, "I'm sorry, I didn't see her. I was running late and drove too fast up the driveway. Are you all right, Julie?" he asked reaching his hand toward her but glaring at him, Pete shielded Julie from David and hurried her past to get her into the house.
As they crossed the driveway, Julie said to Pete, "Tell him I'll meet him inside for lunch."
Ever concerned, Pete hesitated...then nodded. "Okay."
Over his shoulder he said to David curtly, "She said for you to come in and come to the dining room for lunch." His arm around Julie protectively, he quickly guided her up the back staircase and in the house, slamming the door. David followed them also heading for the house, his expression stormy.
Once inside, Pete suggested, "Why don't you let me tell him to come back another day? After a close call like that, you look like you need some rest, sweetheart."
He sat Julie down in a chair at the kitchen table then went to the cupboard to retrieve a glass. He filled it with water at the sink and brought it to her, gently urging her to drink it.
Julie shook her head, "I'm okay Pete, really. I'd rather just get the books done and be finished with it."
She got up from the chair and a little unsteadily headed toward the dining room. Still angry, Pete muttered under his breath as he got up to follow her into the dining room, but at that moment the door opened and David strode into the kitchen carrying a large ledger. The two men stood at the same height eye to eye, steel gray to cold blue glowering at each other.
Pete growled, "You really need to watch your speed driving around here, Slade, this ain't a drag strip. You could've killed Julie."
"I told her I was sorry and I meant it."
Pete wasn't satisfied. "Do you always get so damn reckless behind the wheel around here?"
David scowled at him. "What are you, Cochrane, her self-appointed guardian?" he spat.
"You could say that."
David gave a nasty laugh. "Feeling guilty about the past maybe?"
"What in hell are you talking about," Pete retorted, his hands balling into fists.
"You were here all night talking, weren't you?" David gave a short, humorless laugh. "Or maybe you were doin' more than 'talking'."
Pete was itching to wipe the snide smirk from his face but restrained himself. "What ever we were doing, Slade, is none of your damn business."
"Huh... So with all the catching up between the two of you, you mean to tell me that as "close friends" as you claim to be with her that Julie hasn't told you about the circumstances the day that she met Dan? Cochrane, maybe you're losing your touch," he sneered.
Pete's eyes narrowed. "Cut the crap and tell me exactly what you're implying," he commanded, in no mood for games.
David grinned at him unpleasantly, "You know, Dan and me were like brothers. He pretty much told me everything about anything. Including how he met Julie," he added conversationally.
"Yeah?" Pete replied, suspicion appearing in his eyes.
"You do know how they met, don't you?"
"She told me they met one day in L.A. when Dan was down there on business."
"Uh-huh. He met her while she was living in L.A. It was a chance meeting, excuse the cliché. He was driving down Sunset and came to a stop at a light and she rear-ended him. Apparently, she was too upset to see that he had stopped. Care to guess what she was so upset about, Cochrane?"
"Just cut to the chase, Slade, and leave out the bullshit build up," Pete said grimly.
David went on, "Dan told me she was upset because of something she had just read in the newspaper. It was your wedding announcement," he finished triumphantly. "She was crying so hard, she didn't see the light turn red and WHAM, she smashed right into the back of Dan's truck. Neither one was badly hurt, but Dan saw how really troubled she was, and always the gentleman, came to the lady's rescue by taking her to lunch where she spilled her guts, I imagine. Dan told me some guy she worked with when she was a cop in L.A. broke her heart and I guess that must be you. They started seeing each other and a month later, he brought her to the ranch and married her."
Pete eyed him distrustfully. "Why should I believe you?" he asked.
David laughed nastily, "I don't really care if you do believe me, Cochrane. Just ask Julie for all the details of how she met Dan. Oh and by the way," he stated emphatically, smirking. "Dan told me one night all about what he'd do to you if he ever met you. And since he's no longer here to carry it out, as his best friend I'm much obliged to do it in his absence," he added meaningfully.
Pete leaned closer, glaring directly into David Slade's eyes. "If you mean that as a threat, you'd better make damned sure that you make it good on the first try. 'Cause there won't be a second one. And that isn't a threat, Slade, that's a promise," he assured him in a deadly tone.
"Well, I guess we know exactly where we stand, don't we," David pointed out arrogantly.
"Yeah, we do."
He turned and with the ledger still in his hand, headed down the hallway toward the dining room, leaving Pete standing there to contemplate the gauntlet that was just tossed at him. Pete pursed his lips and took some deep breaths to try to expel the burning rage he was feeling. He noticed that his hands were still tightly clenched in fists and how deeply he desired to wipe that arrogant smirk off David Slade's face.
Unsuccessfully willing himself to calm down, Pete didn't trust himself to join Slade and Julie in the dining room, at least not yet. Deciding that he needed more time to cool off and think clearly, he turned and strode out the door as Hannah was coming in, without looking at her or saying a word...
Meanwhile, David Slade strolled into the dining room. Julie was seated at the chair at the head of the table waiting before a tray of sandwiches, a large salad, and a pitcher of iced tea. The table was set for three, and she looked up as David sat in the chair to her left, showing concern and greeting her with a smile.
"How are you feeling, Julie? I really am sorry that I came barreling in here but I didn't want to be late for lunch with you." He reached and patted her hand, which she quickly withdrew from him.
Quashing her revulsion, Julie returned the smile. "I'm okay, David." She turned and glanced curiously at the door that led down the hall to the kitchen. "Did you see Pete out there when you came through there?" she inquired, worried.
David's smile faded, "He was there when I cut through the kitchen to get here. I guess he's still there," he said shrugging disinterestedly.
"Well, I'm going to check on him." She began to rise. David grasped her wrist, pulling her back down.
"He's a big boy Julie, I'm sure he's fine. By the way what's he doing here, and how long is he going to stay, anyway?" David demanded.
Julie eyed him oddly pulling her wrist free. "I invited him to stay here. And the length of his stay is indefinite, if you must know. This is my home remember?" she retorted icily.
"Hey, take it easy, I was just asking out of curiosity," David said, backing off. He reached for a sandwich and took a healthy bite. Chewing and swallowing, he added, "You don't have to be so touchy."
"I'm not touchy, I just resent your attitude." She took a deep breath to compose herself. "David, for your information, I can invite anyone I want to stay here with me and Pete and I have been friends for over twelve years...as a matter of fact he's like family to me," Julie informed him. "Besides," she added frigidly, "it really is none of your concern."
"Julie, I didn't-" he began but she cut him off with a wave of her hand.
"I'll be right back," she said, dismissing him. She headed for the kitchen. Hannah was there at the sink, washing some apples and she looked up when Julie entered.
"Miss Julie, is everything all right?" she asked as Julie swept past her and went over to the alcove where the table was. She found the area empty. Pete was no where in sight. Annoyed now Julie turned to Hannah.
"Hannah, did you see Pete when you came in here?" she demanded.
Hannah looked at Julie perplexed, "Miss Julie, he left just as I came in. He didn't say anything, he didn't even look at me, he just brushed past and went outside."
Julie frowned. "That's very strange, because that's not like him. Did you see where he went?" Julie persisted as she went to the door to look outside. She scanned the yard for a sign of him, but Pete was nowhere in sight.
"No ma'am, I didn't," Hannah said. "I'm sorry."
Julie turned and looked at Hannah. She softened her manner, "I'm sorry, Hannah, I'm just worried about Pete. He said he'd stay here with me and it's not like him to leave and not tell me where he was going."
She frowned, worried as she made her way down the hallway back to the dining room where David eyed her questioningly. She ignored him and walked through the dining room to the foyer. Julie opened the front door and noticed that the dark green Mercedes that Pete had driven to the ranch in, which had been parked in the circular drive in front of the house was gone. With an exasperated sigh, Julie closed the door and headed back to the dining room. She stared at David pointedly, suspiciously.
"David, did you and Pete have words before you came in here?" Julie inquired boldly, looking him straight in the eye.
David looked back at her evenly, "We had a discussion about the slight mishap with my truck. He wasn't too happy about it, even though I explained to him it was just an accident," he said matter-of-factly.
Julie was shocked at his blasé attitude. "Slight mishap?" she echoed incredulously. "If Pete hadn't pulled me back, you'd have run me over. Suppose Melissa had been playing or riding her bike out there today and Pete wasn't around? What do you think would have happened then, huh?" she railed, raising her voice. "And if Dan were still alive, what do you think he'd have done?"
David had the grace to look ashamed, "You're absolutely right, Julie. I'm very sorry, and I'll make sure that I drive slowly up the driveway from now on, no matter how much of a hurry I'm in," he promised. He noticed her untouched sandwich and salad and gestured to the food. "You sit down and eat now," he directed.
Julie, still upset, shook her head, "Let's just go into the study and get these books caught up," she replied crisply. "I don't want to spend all day tied up with this."
She strode out of the dining room and toward the study. With a shrug, David picked up his ledger, got up from the table and followed her.
NEXT…HAUNTING MEMORIES