Chapter 9 [Rancho Montoya]
Sebastian paced about his office. A deep frown creased his face. He knew the vaqueros wouldn't reach the High Chaparral until first light. His scouts searched for any sign of Sanchez's camp and Mercedes. The doctor had entered Manolito's chamber hours before. And then there was the matter of informing Mercedes' parents of her abduction.
A royal mess to put it mildly….
He poured himself a brandy and allowed himself a sip. He knew numbing his mind wouldn't solve his problems. Still he had to wonder what might have happened had he listened. What if instead of the games and pride, he'd worked with Big John? What if he'd listened to Manolito and Lopez about their security concerns? I allowed Sanchez and his comancheros to remain on my land. Now I have to do what I tell Manolito to do. I have to accept responsibility. He sighed. Ricardo and Lupe need to know about their daughter. They can help search for her. He walked back toward his desk; his mind already piecing together his letter's contents.
A knock came from the door.
"¿Si?" Sebastian called.
The elderly doctor opened the door. Reverence prompted a slow gait and a bow for the Old Lion. He looked the other man over with care. He still remembered the previous spring's charade at Manolito's and Victoria's expense. Still Duty demanded his report. "Don Sebastian, I have good news."
"Yes! Yes! What is it? What about my son?" Sebastian pressed.
The doctor cleared his throat. "Manolito's head wound wasn't deep. Your men did well to bandage it. I tended to it. I also bandaged his chest. He has a cracked rib and his shoulder was dislocated from where he landed on it. He needs to stay in bed, Don Sebastian."
"Don't worry about that! I will tie him to that bed if I have to!" Sebastian agreed.
"Just ensure that he stays there. He'll sleep at least until tomorrow. I will by tomorrow afternoon to check in on him," the doctor continued. "Good day, Don Sebastian." With another bow, he turned and departed.
"A cracked rib and a dislocated shoulder? ¡Ay! Then again, the bullet could have killed him. I suppose there are fortunate things after all," Sebastian told himself. He walked down the passage toward Manolito's room.
Lopez ambled up to him. "Perdona mi, Señor. Has there been word?"
"My son recovers from his injuries. The doctor dressed his wounds and wants him to stay in bed," he noted. "As for Señorita Vega de la Granada, my men still haven't had enough time to reach the High Chaparral. We should hope the Comancheros can be found before they harm her."
"Indeed. I just hope your son will be all right," she expressed.
He nodded. "Gracias. If you will excuse me? I want to check on Manolito. We will speak further at dinner."
She bowed and walked back toward the courtyard. Worry continued to eat at her. Mercedes, where are you? What will your parents say?
I will make it up to her later. He cracked the door and peered inside of the elegant guest chamber. He could see Manolito sleeping in the bed. A white clothed servant sat opposite to the bed watching the patient. A few candles burned in the room.
The servant jumped to his feet and bowed.
"Keep a close eye on him, Lorenzo. Any change and you let me know at once," Sebastian instructed.
Lorenzo bowed. "Si, Padron."
"Gracias," Sebastian offered a slight nod. Then he gently closed the door again. Hunger jabbed at his stomach. I lose track of time it seems.
Pepe rushed up to him. "Padron, dinner is ready. I have informed Señora Lopez. She awaits you."
"Very good, Pepe. Then it is time to eat," Sebastian concurred. He headed for the dining room to both share a meal and concerns with the chaperone.
Diplomacy demanded more and more in those days, it seemed…..