CHAPTER 19
The three friends ride out of the logging camp headed north towards Everett, without being seen. Jeremy notices right off that they're going the wrong way. He reins his horse Brownie to a stop. "Wait! Wait!" he calls out to Rick and Mark.
They come to a stop. "What's wrong?" Rick asks with a scowl.
"This isn't the way to Arizona. We have to go south towards Tacoma."
"We know that, but Mark and I discussed it and we decided we need to go to Everett first."
"Why?"
"We were thinking of you, Jeremy. We figure when your brothers find out we've already left town, that they're going to be real pissed," Rick informs him.
"Yeah, they'll probably come looking for us," Mark adds. "They'll go to Tacoma. We're going north to throw them off."
"No, they won't. I left a letter telling them that we left early and that we took our wages out of the payroll. Sure, they'll be mad but they'll get over it," Jeremy chuckles.
"I don't think we should take any chances. Let them ride to Tacoma. We'll go to Everett and lay low for a few days. Then when they give up looking, we'll head for Arizona," Rick says.
Jeremy shakes his head. "Fine. I don't understand why you're so afraid of Jason and Josh. They do have a temper, but to come after us just because we left earlier than we said, nah, I don't get it."
"Do you want to take a chance of them finding us and dragging you back to Seattle? To embarrass you and treat you like that dumb kid they always called you," Mark states.
"I don't think they'd do that. Would they?"
"I don't know. What I do know is that I don't want to see you treated like that," Rick says.
"All right. We'll do it your way. Thanks for looking out for me. Besides I always liked Everett."
They gallop on towards Everett.
When morning comes and the camp comes alive, Jason and Josh pour themselves a cup of coffee to take to their tent. "Think Jeremy's up yet?" Josh laughs.
"Well, let's take him a cup of coffee to help him wake up," Jason grins.
Entering the tent, they look around and see that Jeremy is nowhere to be seen. "You don't think he's already gone up to his worksite, do you?" Josh asks.
"His crew is over eating breakfast. He wouldn't go up there by himself."
"Maybe he didn't go by himself. Maybe Rick and Mark went with him," Josh resentfully comments.
"Maybe. No need to worry about him." Going over to the table, he asks, "Where's that new schedule?"
Seeing the two letters and the small box, Jason picks the letter up that says 'JASON AND JOSH'. "I think we're about to find out where Jeremy is." They sit down. Jason asks, "You want to read it aloud or should I?"
Josh sneers, "You go ahead."
Jason reads:
Dear Jason and Josh,
Sorry to have you find out this way, but we have already left for Arizona. I thought it would be easier on all of us if I just left. We said our goodbyes last night. You just didn't know it. I took our wages from the payroll and put the rest back in the safe. I also took my savings. As for mine and Candy's money for the house, please see that she gets it. She can use it for whatever she wants. I owe her that much.
Please don't be angry at me for leaving like I did. I love you both and I wanted to spare us the turmoil of having to say goodbye again. Last night was upsetting enough. I'll try to stay in touch, but if you don't hear from me for awhile, don't be worried. I'll be all right.
Love from your brother,
Jeremy
"Why that dumb kid!" Josh fumes.
Jason reads the letter to himself again. "Maybe he has a point. Last night was upsetting for all of us. I had trouble falling asleep after Jeremy left for camp. Let's try not to think too hard of him."
"But Jason, he's gone! I'm just afraid we'll never see him again," Josh laments.
"I know. I feel that way, too. But we have to remember that he's not a little kid anymore. That's something we keep forgetting. He deserves to live his life the way he wants."
Josh wipes his eyes, "Even if it's without us?"
Jason clears his throat. "Even if it's without us." He lays the letter down and picks up the letter addressed to Candy. "Wonder how she's going to take the news?"
"Not good. She's going to be devastated."
"Well, let's get the money that Jeremy wants her to have from the safe. I'll take it all down to her. This isn't going to be easy," Jason says.
Josh goes over to the safe and opens it. He rummages through the contents searching for the money envelopes. "Jason, they're gone!"
"What's gone?"
"The money. All the money. The payroll, the savings. Everything!"
"What! That can't be! Jeremy said. . ."
"I don't care what Jeremy said. He lied!" Josh angrily clenches his fist. "I could wring his neck! That dumbass kid!"
"Now Josh, calm down. Jeremy doesn't lie. I know Jeremy didn't do this. He wouldn't," Jason says.
"What are we going to do, Jason? The men expect to be paid later today."
"Well for one thing, we're going to keep this between the two of us. Nobody can find out about this. You'll have to ride to Tacoma and get a loan for the payroll. Make it super fast. I'll stall the men if you're not back by quitting time."
"So, you're just going to cover this up to protect Jeremy? No matter what stupid thing he does, you always want to make him out to be a saint. When are you going to let him face the consequences of his actions?"
"Josh, Jeremy is our brother. I know he isn't a saint. And I also know there has to be a good reason for the money to be missing. I don't think Jeremy did this."
"Then who did?"
Jason sighs loudly, "I don't know. You better get going. Have a safe trip and I'll see you when you get back."
"Yeah, right," Josh moans as he hurries from the tent to saddle a horse.
Jason reads Jeremy's letter again. "Oh Jeremy, what a mess you've left us with."
CHAPTER 20
Biddie opens the dormitory door when Jason knocks. "Why good morning, Jason. What brings you by so early this morning?"
"Hello, Biddie. How are you today?"
"Oh, right as rain. How are you?"
"I'm right as rain, too. Is Candy around?"
"Yes, she is. Won't you come in?"
"I'll wait here for her, if you don't mind."
"No, I don't mind. I'll go get her."
Jason waits patiently for Candy. He looks around the square and wonders if his little brother could do such a thing. Rob them? No, he won't believe it.
The door opens and Candy steps outside. Jason turns and shuts the door behind her. "Jason, you wanted to see me?"
"Hmm, yes I do, Candy. How are you doing?"
"Fine. I'm doing just fine. And yourself?"
"I'm fine, too." He gazes at her intently. "Is there somewhere we can talk privately?"
"We can go to the church? Is that all right?"
"Yes, the church is fine."
Entering the church, Candy asks, "What is this about, Jason? Have I done something you don't approve of? Did Jeremy tell you what happened last night?"
Jason gets a troubled look on his face. "Last night? Jeremy hasn't said anything. Did something happen between you and Jeremy last night?"
"Nothing, I care to talk about. So, if this isn't about last night, what is it about?"
"Well Candy, it seems, hmm, when Josh and I arrived at camp this morning, we, hmm, we found this laying on the table inside our tent." He holds the letter and box out to her.
"What is it?" She takes it in her hands and looks closely. "This is Jeremy's handwriting. What does it say?"
"I don't know, I didn't read it. It's addressed to you. I'll wait outside while you read it. Then we'll talk."
After Jason leaves and she is alone, she opens the letter with nervous hands.
My Dearest Candy,
I love you. Please remember that. As you read this I am on my way to Arizona. Forgive me for running away in the dead of night. I'm a coward. A coward for not wanting to face you again to tell you goodbye. Letting last night be our goodbye is so much easier. I'm sorry I couldn't do what you asked. It wasn't because I didn't want to, because I did want to. As you probably know, I have wanted to for a long time. I couldn't do it and then just leave you. Please understand and don't hate me.
Candy, I want to thank you for the time we have spent together. Meeting you was the best thing that has ever happened to me. I honestly thought we'd grow old together. But obviously, that's not going to happen. I never intended to hurt you like this. But that seems to be what I do best. I hurt the ones I love.
I want you to go on with your life. Find someone to take my place, because I'm not worthy of your love. Just be sure he loves you and will treat you right. I'll pray for you and in return I hope you will pray for me.
Look in the box. I bought this for you when I ruined your weekend that time I went to Tacoma. I carried it in my pocket but I could never find the right time to give it to you. Until now. Now is that time. I'm sure it will be lovely on you.
Just know that I'm leaving my heart with you.
Love,
Jeremy
Tears cascade down Candy's pretty face. She slowly opens the box and gasps when she sees the beautiful heart necklace. "Oh, Jeremy. You are worthy. I love you," she whispers.
Candy goes to the door and opens it. Jason is sitting on the porch waiting. He jumps up and goes inside with her. "I don't know what to say, except I'm sorry Candy," he says as he hugs her. He lets her cry on his chest.
"He's gone, Jason," she cries. "I thought, no I hoped he would change his mind at the last minute and stay. What am I going to do now?"
"You'll do what we all have to do. We'll grieve for a while, then we'll pick ourselves up and carry on."
"I'm afraid that's easier said than done. Jeremy left me with his heart." She shows Jason the necklace. "Would you put it on me, please?" She holds her hair up so he can close the clasp.
"That's beautiful, Candy."
"I think so. I won't give up on him, Jason. He will come back home."
"I'm not giving up on him, either. I think one day he'll realize that he can't live without you and his brothers. We're family after all."
Candy sighs, "So, you really didn't know he was leaving early? He didn't mention it?"
"Not a peep. When he came in from seeing you last night, I could tell he was troubled. Like you, he didn't want to talk about it. Later he said he was going up to the camp, he had a lot of thinking to do. Neither Josh nor I thought anything of it. That's typical Jeremy. Then when we got to camp this morning, we found a letter for us and that one for you. We were stunned."
"I don't feel right about him going off with Rick and Mark. I don't trust them," she says.
"I don't either. I pray we're wrong. I'm hoping he took the guns and knife with him for protection. Hopefully, he won't have to use them." Jason takes her hand, "Come on, I'll walk you back home. I need to get to camp."
They walk over to the dormitory. "Now Candy, remember, you're family to Josh and me. If there's anything you need or you just want to talk, feel free to come find us. We'll help anyway we can."
Candy raises up on her tiptoes and kisses Jason on the cheek. "Thank you. I just may take you up on that."
CHAPTER 21
The next night as Jeremy, along with Rick and Mark, sit by the campfire outside of Everett, he asks, "Don't you think it's time we moved on towards Arizona?"
Ricks smirks, "Nah, not yet. We decided we'll wait another day or so."
Jeremy chews on the inside of his lip, thinking. "How come you two always do the deciding? Why can't I be included on the decision making?"
"Well Jeremy, Mark and I are old hands at traveling. You're a tenderfoot. After you become a seasoned traveler, we'll ask for your opinion."
Mark asks quickly, "You understand, don't you?"
"I guess." Jeremy pouts. He picks up a stick and plays around with it, sticking it in the fire, pulling it out, puts it back in and scatters some of the small flames.
"What's wrong, Jeremy? You homesick already?" Mark chuckles.
Jeremy continues to play with the fire. "No, not homesick. I guess I feel guilty over the way I left. Not saying goodbye and all."
"Don't let it eat you up. You did what needed to be done. They're probably glad you left like you did. Now, they can forget about you and get on with their lives."
A hurt look etches across Jeremy's face. "I guess."
Rick shakes his head at Mark signaling him to stop. Looking back at Jeremy he asks, "What's that mountain of yours worth?"
"I really don't know. We've never had it valued before," Jeremy replies.
"It's gotta be worth a fortune, don't you think?"
Jeremy shrugs his shoulders. "Probably. I guess you could ask Aaron Stempel. He probably knows since he tries every trick in the book to take it away from us."
"Really? Hmm. Since you're no longer going to live there, why don't you sell your part to Stempel?"
"I c-couldn't do that."
"Why not? You don't need it, but you could use the money to finance this trip. Make it a lot easier on all of us."
Jeremy shakes his head. "None of us can sell our share of the mountain. Our parents put it in a trust that states the mountain cannot be split up. Josh almost lost his share by using it to get a loan to start his own company. The court ruled it illegal. All of us would have to sell and that will never happen."
"You sure about that? Say for instance, one of you were kidnapped. Wouldn't all of you be willing to sell to pay the ransom?" Rick asks.
"We would want to, but still can't. We have a contract with Stempel. If the contract is broken, then Stempel gets the mountain. So we can't do anything with the mountain." Jeremy throws his stick in the fire. "Besides, our parents gave up everything for that mountain. To get rid of it, would be an insult to them."
"But you have a contract with Stempel. You bargained the mountain," Mark says.
"You're right. We did and that was a foolish thing for us to do. It'll never happen again. Not ever." Jeremy stands up. "Think I'll be turning in. Night." He goes over and spreads his blanket on the ground while Rick and Mark wonders what to do next since their plans just went south.
The next morning, Rick says, "We'll be heading out after breakfast. I think it's safe enough."
An excited Jeremy replies, "Good. I think it's boring just sitting around here. How are we going to get through Seattle without being seen?"
"We're not. We'll go east around Seattle. Then back over to Tacoma," Rick answers.
"Tacoma? I don't know about that. We do a lot of business in Tacoma. That's about as bad as me riding through Seattle."
"Then you'll stay out of sight. Mark and I will go into town and get some supplies. We'll hurry and get moving on as soon as possible. Okay with you?"
"Yeah, that works. I'll start breakfast," Jeremy answers. "Hope you're hungry!"
CHAPTER 22
The next day, the three riders make camp outside Tacoma. "Man, I'm beat!" Mark tells his two companions.
"Me too!" Rick answers. "Can't wait to get into town and get me a cold one."
"Wish I were going with you. Maybe I could go and . . . ."
"Nah, you better stay here. Don't want to take any chances," Mark says.
Seeing the disappointed look on Jeremy's face, Rick says, "We'll bring you back a bottle of whiskey. How's that?"
"Not as good as a cold beer, but it'll do." Jeremy gets a change of clothes and his green towel from his bag. "While you're gone, I think I'll go down to the river and take me a bath. I'm getting a little rank," he chuckles as he goes off towards the river.
Mark sniffs, "I could use a bath myself."
Rick replies, "Yeah, we all could, but ours will have to wait till we get back."
Jeremy gets less than half way to the river and remembers he forgot his soap. He goes back towards the camp and hears Rick and Mark talking. He stops and listens when he hears his name.
"Why'd you say you'd bring Jeremy a bottle of whiskey?" Mark asks.
"I thought if we got him drunk, it'd be easier to get him to Port Angeles."
"Good thinking. He can't put up a fight if he isn't aware of where we're taking him."
"Yeah, he'll be out until we get him sold to the highest bidder. Boy, I'd like to see the look on his face when he wakes up and sees that he's been crimped and is on a ship bound to the open sea never to be heard from again," Rick laughs.
Mark joins in the laughter until he turns his head and sees Jeremy standing there. "Where did you come from? Don't you know it's not safe sneaking up on someone like that?"
"Oh, um, I forgot my soap, that's all." He hurriedly grabs the bar of soap from his bag. Then goes back towards the river. He hides out of site until he sees Rick and Mark ride off. Then he comes back to the camp and starts getting his things together. He ties everything back onto Brownie and puts his foot in the stirrups when he hears a voice.
"Going somewhere, Bolt?" Rick asks.
"Yeah, I thought you were going to take a bath?" Mark chuckles.
"Hmm, uh, yeah, about that. I thought I'd, hmm, go into Tacoma after all. I was going to catch up with you. Why are you back here?"
Rick sees the nervous look and evasive eyes on Jeremy's face. "Jeremy, you're a terrible liar. Now, where were you going?"
Jeremy chews on his lip before answering. "I-I-I've ch-changed my mind. I'm go-going home."
Rick and Mark look at each other. "Why? Why do you want to go home all a sudden? You were just going off without saying goodbye?" Rick asks.
"Yeah, he's good at leavin' without sayin' goodbye," Mark cackles.
"I-I just didn't want to w-wait. I m-miss home."
"You know what I think? I think you heard Mark and me talking and you got scared. Ain't that right?"
"T-talking? Talking about what?" Jeremy questions.
"Don't play dumb, Jeremy. We know you heard us talking about Port Angeles. About taking you there and selling you to the crimpers."
Jeremy gulps. "Wh-why would you do that?"
"Well, it wasn't our plan to start with. We were going to ransom you to your brothers, but you put that idea out to pasture. So, this was our only alternative. We have to make money off you somehow."
"But, I thought we were fr-fr-friends," Jeremy stutters.
Mark chuckles, "Yeah, well that's what you get for thinking. We've been playing you all along. You were going to be our pathway to being rich."
"R-Rich? But I'm not rich. Why would you th-think I'm r-rich?"
"Because you own that damn mountain, that's why. We heard talk about how it was worth a fortune. Now you tell us you can't sell it. Damn it Bolt! It's as worthless as you are!" Mark shouts angrily.
Jeremy hangs his head in shame. Why didn't I listen when everyone tried to warn me about these two? What do I do now? "I tell you what! I-I'll let you have the money in the saddlebag. I know it's not a whole lot, but you can have it. I don't need it. I'll just go back to Seattle. I'll even get the rest of the money from the safe and dr-drop it off to you."
"Boy, no wonder your own brother calls you a dumb kid. Didn't you notice that the saddlebag was too heavy for the little bit of money you counted out? We've already cleaned the safe out," Mark says.
"You robbed my brothers? I don't believe it."
"Look for yourself. You'll become a believer," Rick smirks.
Jeremy looks inside the saddlebag and sees several envelopes he recognizes. He grits his teeth as his anger rises. "I'm taking this back to Seattle!"
"And tell everyone what we've done? I don't think so," Rick shakes his head.
"I promise not to say a word. I'll tell them I changed my mind." He throws the saddle bag up on top of Brownie's back. He starts to put his foot in the stirrups again, when this time he hears a click. He looks over and sees that Rick is holding his gun on him.
"What are you going to do?" Jeremy asks. "Shoot me and add murder to your list of crimes?"
"Only if we have to. Now move over there. Mark tie his hands."
Mark gets a piece of rope from his bag and stops in front of Jeremy. "Turn around."
As sweat pops out covering Jeremy's forehead, he slowly slides his right hand to the back of his jacket and grasps the handgun . He pulls it around front of him sticking the barrel in Mark's gut. "You really want to do that?" Jeremy asks.
Mark's eyes get large and he tries to knock the gun away. They struggle for control of the gun when it goes off. Mark grabs his stomach and falls to the ground. Jeremy stands frozen.
Rick yells, "Mark!" He rushes over to him and checks his pulse. He looks at Jeremy with hatred. "He's dead! You bastard! You killed my brother!" Rick stands up.
"I-I-I didn't mean. . . . ."
"Drop your gun!" Rick shouts as he points his gun at Jeremy.
Jeremy complies to Rick's demand. "I'm sorry."
"You're going to be even sorrier. I don't know whether to kill you straight out or take you to the crimpers and let them have their way with you. Either way, you'll be dead soon." He stares at Jeremy and then grins. "But first, I want to have the pleasure of beating you to a pulp. Maybe I'll get lucky and kill you with my bare hands." He starts to place his gun back in the holster when all of a sudden he smacks Jeremy up beside the face with it.
Jeremy stumbles as he feels blood running down his cheek. Rick drops the gun and lunges at Jeremy. Jeremy moves quickly out of his way. They bob, weave, and block as they go back and forth with their punches—jabs and crosses. They're getting worn down with bloody cuts around their eyes affecting their vision.
Panting hard, Jeremy gives his one last effort, a hook across Rick's right temple, knocking him out cold. Jeremy bends over trying to catch his breath, waiting to see if Rick gets back up. Deciding that he is out for the count, he stumbles over to pick up the piece of rope that Mark had dropped. He slowly drags Rick over to a tree. Falling to his knees, he bounds Rick's hands and ties him to the tree. Jeremy wipes the blood and sweat from his eyes and then glances around for something to tie Rick's feet with. He uses the only thing he can find, his belt.
Jeremy holds his head in his hands and moans. He gets himself together and holding his ribs, he staggers over to Brownie. He climbs up on his horse, then wonders where he should go. He wants to ride home to Seattle but he doesn't know if he can make it that far. Knowing that he is right outside of Tacoma, that is where he heads.
CHAPTER 23
Brownie stops in the main part of town with a passed out Jeremy slumped over and barely in the saddle. Some men close by see that he is about to fall, so they run to help him down and carry him to the small hospital close by.
"Hey! We've got an injured boy here!" one of the men shouts. A doctor comes running and he has them take Jeremy to an exam room.
"What happened?" Dr. Collins asks.
"Don't know. He came riding into town like this. Think he'll make it?"
"If I have anything to do with it, he will. Now, you men go on about your business. Thanks for bringing him in."
Nurse Amy comes in to assist. "Go tell Doctors Fletcher and Wright that I could use their assistance."
The nurse returns with both doctors on her heels. "My God, what happened to him?" Dr. Fletcher asks.
"I don't know, but I wager that someone doesn't like him very much."
As Nurse Amy takes a warm cloth and wipes the young man's face, Dr. Wright moves closer and gasps when she sees who it is. "Jeremy! Jeremy Bolt!" she calls out to him.
"You know him?" Dr. Collins inquires.
"Yes, I do. He's a dear friend of mine. His whole family is." She turns her attention back to Jeremy. Leaning over him, she says, "Jeremy. Jeremy, it's Dr. Wright. It's Allyn. Jeremy, can you hear me?"
She gets no response.
Dr. Fletcher says, "Since you're so close to the patient, maybe you'd better step back on this one."
"I most certainly will not. I can keep my emotions in check."
"Very well, then. Let's proceed."
After a good cleaning and a thorough examination, Jeremy is bandaged up and moved to a room. Allyn sits with him holding his hand. "Jeremy, what happened?" she whispers. She sighs from tiredness. Oh my goodness. I have to let his brothers know. Allyn steps out of the room and stops Nurse Barbara. "I need you to stay with this patient until I return. I have to let his family know what has happened to him. I'll be back as soon as I can." She hurries down the hall and out of the hospital.
"Can you send this right away?" Allyn asks the telegrapher.
"Yes, Dr. Wright. That'll be twenty five cents."
She pays him and says, "Please send any replies over to the hospital as soon as possible."
Jason and Josh are at Lottie's when Ben bursts through the doors. "My goodness Ben, where's the fire?" Lottie asks.
Ignoring Lottie, he looks around and sees the Bolts sitting at a table talking to Aaron Stempel. Ben hurries over to them and hands the message to Jason. "I'm sorry, Jason."
"Sorry for what?" Jason chuckles.
"Just read it."
Jason reads the telegraph and the color drains out of his face. "Damn! I had a bad feeling about this!"
"What is it, Jason?" Josh asks concerned.
"It's Jeremy. He's in the hospital in Tacoma. Hurry Josh, we've got to get going." He stands. "Allyn requests that Candy come with us."
"I'll go tell Candy. You two go pack. We'll meet you out front of the dormitory," Lottie tells them.
"Jason, do you want me to send a reply to Dr. Wright?" Ben asks.
"Hmm, yes, tell her we're on our way." He takes a couple steps then stops. "Also tell her to take care of our brother." He runs out of the saloon.
CHAPTER 24
The next day before noon, Jason, Josh, and Candy come running into the hospital. They see Dr. Wright talking to Sheriff Charlie Reid. "Allyn, how's Jeremy?" Jason asks as Candy asks at the same time, "Where's Jeremy?"
"Jeremy is going to be all right. He has a bad concussion and several bruised ribs. He's asleep right now."
"Can I see him?" Candy asks.
"Of course, come with me."
"I'll be in shortly. I want to talk to the Sheriff first," Jason explains to Candy.
Jason and Charlie shake hands. "Sorry about your brother. I was shocked when I found out about it."
"What happened, Charlie?"
"We had reports of a body, maybe two bodies, at a campsite outside of town. We rode out there early this morning. There was indeed a body and a man tied to a tree. He was beat up pretty good, but the doc says he'll live. As far as I can put the pieces together, it seems Jeremy may have encountered these two."
"Yes, Jeremy was in the company of two men, Rick and Mark Blackwell. They were on their way to Arizona." Jason scratches his head while thinking. "So, Jeremy gets into a fight with one of them. How did the other man die?"
"He was shot. By whom, I don't know. Hopefully, Jeremy can fill in the details when he wakes up."
"Thanks, Charlie. I need to go see my brother, right now. But we'll talk again soon."
"Right." Charlie starts to walk away, but remembers something. "Jason, Jeremy's horse is over at the stables. I have his personal effects at the jail. Drop by anytime to pick them up."
"I will and thanks again."
When Jason walks into Jeremy's room, Candy is sitting by his side holding his scuffed hand. Josh is standing at the head of the bed. Jason gasps when he sees Jeremy.
"He looks worse than he really is," Allyn tells him.
"Has he been awake any at all?" Jason asks.
"Last night, he was in and out for awhile. I don't think he was aware of anything but his pain. I gave him a heavy dose of morphine. It should be wearing off pretty soon," Allyn answers.
"How did this happen, Jason? Did Charlie tell you anything?" Josh asks.
"He doesn't know for sure. He needs to talk to Jeremy when he wakes up," he replies.
"Yes, we all do," Candy says as she swipes Jeremy's hair from his eyes.
Hours later, Jeremy opens his eyes and looks around the room trying to get his bearings of where he is. He sees Candy sitting by his side with her head laying on the bed holding his hand. His brothers are also asleep sprawled out in chairs across the room. He thinks he must be dreaming. He hopes he is dreaming.
Allyn comes into Jeremy's room to check on him. She tries not to awaken the sleeping visitors knowing how exhausted they must be having ridden all night without any rest. Seeing Jeremy awake, she leans over and whispers, "Glad to see you awake. How do you feel?"
"Hurt. I hurt all over," he whispers back. "What are they doing here?"
"They came because I sent for them."
"You-you shouldn't have." He licks his lips. "Water?"
She pours him a glass of water and helps him take a sip. "More?"
"No, thank you. Allyn, get rid of them."
"Get rid of who?" Allyn asks confused.
Jeremy slightly nods his head at Candy and his brothers. "Them. I don't want to see them."
"Why? Jeremy, they're worried about you."
"I know. I'm not ready to see them. Or anyone. Please," he pleads with tears in his eyes.
"All right. Close your eyes and pretend to be asleep." She waits for him to follow her instructions.
Allyn shakes Candy's shoulders and says in a gentle voice, "Candy, wake up. Come with me."
"What?" She sits up straight and looks at Jeremy. "Is Jeremy all right?"
"He's doing fine. I need you to come out in the hall with me." Candy follows her across the room where Allyn wakes Jason and Josh bidding them to follow her. Once out in the hall, she closes the door.
"What is it, Allyn? Is Jeremy worse?" Jason asks.
"No, this isn't about Jeremy. I want the three of you to go over to the hotel and get rooms. Then I want you to go to bed."
"I can't do that!" Candy exclaims. "I need to be with Jeremy."
"Candy, you're worn out. And so are the two of you," she says as she looks at Jason and Josh. "You're not doing Jeremy any good by being here. Go get something hot to eat and then go to bed. When you return later all refreshed, I'm sure he'll be awake."
"But what if he wakes up before we get back? Shouldn't one of us stay here?" Josh asks.
"If he wakes up, I'll send word over to you. Now go. All of you."
They reluctantly agree and Allyn watches them until she sees them go inside the hotel that is close by.
CHAPTER 25
After a good meal, a short nap, and a refreshing bath, Jason, Josh, and Candy head back over to the hospital. As they come to Jeremy's room, they see a sign on the door—NO ADMITTANCE.
"What's going on here?" Jason asks to no one in particular.
"Jason, is something wrong with Jeremy? Why can't we see him?" Candy anxiously asks.
"I don't know, but I'm going to find out." He knocks on the door, waits for several seconds and knocks again.
Allyn opens the door and steps out into the hallway closing the door behind her.
"Allyn, what's wrong with Jeremy? Why can't we see him?" Candy asks
Allyn sighs as she has news to tell them which she knows they won't like. "Come over here and sit down. There's something I need to talk to you about."
"Is Jeremy all right?" Josh inquires.
Everyone sits and Allyn answers, "Jeremy is going to be all right. Physically that is."
"What do you mean, physically that is?" Jason roars.
Allyn pats Jason's cheek. "Calm down, Jason. I mean that Jeremy is not in any danger. He's going to recover." She hesitates, "But the thing is. . .he doesn't want to see any of you. I'm sorry."
"What?" they all three asks quite loudly. "Why?"
"Jeremy has been through a lot. I don't know everything exactly, but it seems the Blackwell brothers were not really his friends after all. He feels like, as he said, a fool for trusting them. He's embarrassed and ashamed for everything he's done. Oh, and Mark told him he was worthless and Jeremy believes it."
"Allyn, I have to see Jeremy. Please! I need to be with him," Candy pleads.
"We all do," Jason adds.
"I'm sorry, but until he says he's ready to see you, I have to abide by my patient's wishes. Go back to your rooms and I'll let you know if or when he changes his mind. Again, I'm sorry."
"I'm going to go see the Sheriff and then I may just pay Rick a visit. He's not going to get away with doing this to Jeremy," Jason says angrily.
"Jason, you can't go into Rick's room and start trouble. If I have to, I'll have you removed from this hospital," Allyn sternly tells him.
"I just want to talk. I won't lay a hand on him."
"I'll go with him to keep him out of trouble," Josh says. "Candy, you want to come with us?"
Candy shakes her head. "No, I'm going to sit right here and wait until Jeremy is ready to see me. You two go ahead. I'll be just fine."
"Well, I have a meeting I need to get to. Candy, are you sure you want to sit here? I mean, he may not change his mind," Allyn says.
"I'm sure. I'll wait forever if that's what it takes."
All alone and desperate to see Jeremy, Candy decides to take matters into her own hands. She stands and after smoothing her dress down neatly, she pinches her cheeks, and takes a deep breath. Opening the door quietly, she slips inside the room, making her way towards the bed. Jeremy is asleep. She touches his arm tenderly, just to be touching him.
Jeremy's eyes pop open. "C-Candy, what are you doing here? Didn't Allyn tell you I don't, hmm, that I wasn't having visitors?"
"Yes, she told me. But Jeremy, I had to see you. I'm sorry," she begins to cry.
She knows I can't stand to see her cry. "It's all right, Candy. Don't cry. Now that you've seen that I'm okay, you can leave."
"Leave? Jeremy, please don't make me leave. I want to be here with you."
"Why? After all the things I've done, why do you even want to be in the same room with me?"
Candy moves her hand from his arm and swipes his hair from his face. "Do you really need to ask me that? I love you, Jeremy Bolt. All I want is for you to get better and come home with us so we can continue our lives together."
Tears fill Jeremy's eyes. "I-I can't do that, Candy. I can never go back to Seattle."
"Why not? Seattle is your home. You have family and friends there. Your mountain is there." She bites on her lip. "I'm there." She wipes her eyes.
He looks at her beautiful face. "Don't you understand? I can't go back and have everyone make fun of me for trusting Rick and Mark. I can't go through that again. I-I- c-can't." His tears finally fall.
"Jeremy, no one will make fun of you. Everyone knows how kind and trusting you are. Sometimes to a fault. Please, come home with me." She takes her hankie and dries his tears.
Jeremy lays there shaking his head. "Candy, you better go. I need to rest."
"Well, you go ahead and rest. I'll just sit here quietly. You won't even know I'm here." She sits down beside him. Taking his hand in hers, she kisses his fingers. "I love you, Jeremy."
Knowing how stubborn Candy can be, Jeremy sighs and closes his eyes.
CHAPTER 26
Dr. Wright comes into Jeremy's room and is surprised to see Candy sitting by his bedside. "Candy, what are you doing in here? Did I not make myself clear that Jeremy does not want any visitors? Now, you need to leave immediately before he wakes up."
"It's all right, Allyn. Jeremy knows I'm here. We talked before he fell asleep again."
Jeremy stirs as he hears voices. "What-what's going on?" he asks sleepily.
"I'm sorry, Jeremy. I told Candy she couldn't see you, but she somehow came in here anyways," Allyn says. "I was asking her to leave."
"It's okay, Allyn. We both know that Candy doesn't always follow orders," he smirks as he looks at Candy.
"Well, if you're sure. I came in to ask you if you feel like talking to Sheriff Reid. He's outside in the hall and he'd really like to talk to you. Jason and Joshua are with him."
Jeremy thinks it over. "I guess I might as well get this over with. Tell my brothers they can come in, too. I know they have questions and I only want to tell this one time."
"Very well. I'll be right back."
"Jeremy, may I stay and hear what happened?" Candy asks.
"Sure, why not."
After everyone gets settled, Jeremy begins his tale. "I guess, I better start at the beginning. Rick and Mark talked me into leaving Sunday night instead of Tuesday morning. They said it would be easier on all of you as well as for me. I opened the safe and counted out our wages according to the ledger. I also took my savings. As I was about to put the payroll back in the safe, Mark called me over to look at something he says he saw outside. Now I know he was only distracting me. Rick took the payroll from me and said he'd put it back in the safe and lock it. I swear I didn't know he took every last cent of money from the safe. Not until days later.
"We traveled to Everett to throw everyone off in case we were being followed. I explained that you wouldn't come after me, but I guess he figured you might since he took all the money. After a couple of days, we made a wide circle around Seattle, camping outside Tacoma. They were going into Tacoma for supplies and I was to stay behind. I decided to go to the river to take a bath, but I forgot the soap and turned around and went back to camp. I heard them talking about getting me drunk and taking me to Port Angeles to sell to the highest bidder. They wanted to sell me to the crimpers." He stops and closes his eyes to keep his tears at bay. Candy squeezes his hand.
"They see me and I tell them I forgot my soap. I didn't let on that I heard anything. I grab my soap and leave, hiding close by. When I heard them ride off, I quickly decided to leave for home so I packed my belongings and started to mount Brownie. But they had come back and asked me where I was going. I told them I decided to go to Tacoma with them. I was in a hurry to catch up with them. Rick called me a liar so I told the truth, that I was going home to Seattle. We had words and he confessed that they had played me all along. They had heard that we owned a mountain that was worth a fortune. They figured you'd sell the mountain for my ransom. But when we were camped outside Everett, I had told them about the trust stating we couldn't sell the mountain. That's when they came up with the plan to sell me to the crimpers. Mark said I was as worthless as the mountain. He also called me Josh's favorite saying, a. . .a dumb kid." A tear falls and Jeremy quickly wipes it away.
"Jeremy, I'm sorry," Josh apologizes. He hangs his head in shame.
"Jeremy, do you need a break?" Jason asks.
Jeremy shakes his head, "No, I want to get this over with. But could I have some water, please?"
Allyn pours him a glass of water and Jeremy drinks half of it. "Mark goes to tie my hands behind my back, when I slip my gun out from behind my jacket and stick it in his gut. He tries to disarm me. We struggle and the gun goes off hitting him in his stomach area. Rick is furious that his brother is dead. He says he's going to beat me to a pulp. He hits me up beside the head with his gun, then he lunges at me. We fight for quite a while. I think I'm about done for when I hit him with everything I've got and knock him out. I drag him over to a tree and tie him up. The last thing I remember is climbing up on Brownie and heading for Tacoma. How I got here, I don't know. I woke up with Dr. Wright taking care of me once again. She's my guardian angel. Thank you, Allyn."
Allyn blushes, "You're welcome, Jeremy. I'm just glad that I was still here."
"We all are," Jason says.
"Well, that's everything I need. I'll get this written up for you to sign. Rick Blackwell will be going to trial for kidnapping, robbery, and attempted murder. You may have to come back and testify. If found guilty, he may hang or at least he'll be going away for a long time," Sheriff Reid informs them.
"Hmm, what about me? I did shoot Mark," Jeremy asks with apprehension.
"I'm not going to charge you, Jeremy. The way I see it, it was self-defense. You're free to go home when Dr. Wright says you can. You take care." He shakes everyone's hand and leaves.
Josh asks, "So Allyn, when can Jeremy go home?"
Jeremy speaks up before Allyn can answer. "About that. Like I told Candy earlier, I've decided that I'm not going home."
"Oh Jeremy!" Candy begins to cry again.
"What do you mean, you're not going home? Where are you going?" Jason asks.
"I left Seattle because I wanted to prove to myself and everyone else that I was a man. But instead, all I proved was that I am that 'dumb kid' that always screws up. It's best if I go off on my own. I don't want to be an embarrassment any longer. Now, if you don't mind, I'm tired and I'd like to be alone. Have a safe trip home." He turns over in the bed putting his back to everyone.
"Jeremy, please," Candy cries. "Please don't do this!"
Jeremy ignores her, but says, "Allyn, would you mind getting everyone out of my room?"
Allyn finally manages to empty the room. "Jeremy, may I say something?"
"I guess. What is it?"
"I know you were hurt and disillusioned by what those men did to you, but you're wrong by not going home. Going back would prove you to be more of a man than running away ever will. Think about it."
CHAPTER 27
The next morning, Allyn comes into Jeremy's room. She opens the curtains letting in the bright sunshine. Jeremy moans as he wakes up with the sunlight shining in his eyes.
In a cheerful voice, she says, "Good morning, Jeremy. Rise and shine!"
"What's so good about it? Can you tone it down in here a bit?" he asks as he shields his eyes.
Allyn ignores his request. "I brought you some breakfast. Are you hungry?"
"Not really." Allyn helps him sit up, then plops the tray down on his lap. "Eat up because you're going to need your strength today."
"Why?"
"We're going to get you up out of that bed today. Walk you around a bit. Nothing strenuous. But it's a start."
"Oh." He takes a couple bites of his eggs before he asks, "Do you know if my brothers and Candy have left yet?"
"I don't know, but I doubt it. They did say they wanted to stop by here to check on you one last time before heading for home." She straightens a blanket at the foot of his bed. "Jeremy, have you given any thought of what I said about going home or running away?"
"Yes, I have thought about it."
"And?"
"I don't know, Allyn. If I do go home, will it ever be the same?"
"Well, you won't know until you try. Who knows, it may be better than before. At least your brothers now know not to put you down with the name calling. Why don't you give it a try?"
"I'll think about it. I'm finished eating. Would you mind taking my tray?"
Allyn removes his tray and leaves the room. Jeremy stares out the window as he thinks about what Allyn has said.
A little later, someone knocks on Jeremy's door. "Come in," he calls out before he realizes that may be a mistake.
The door opens and Candy, Jason, and Josh enter the room. "Before you say anything, we just wanted to come see you before we head for home," Jason explains. "May we come in?"
"Sure," Jeremy replies uncomfortably.
They come over to the bed. "How are you doing?" Josh asks.
"Good, I think. Allyn says they're going to get me up later to walk around a bit."
"That sounds promising," Jason comments trying to be cheerful.
Jeremy looks at Candy who has said nothing, but he sees the tears in her eyes. "Cat got your tongue?" he slightly chuckles.
Candy shakes her head. "I-I'm afraid to talk." She turns her head and blinks her tears back.
"Well, that's a first, isn't it Jeremy?" Josh laughs.
"Hmm, yeah, I guess." Jeremy looks at all three of them. They're all in an uncomfortable situation. "Look, I'm sorry for the way things have turned out. I don't want to hurt you anymore than I already have. I hope someday you can forgive me."
"Forgive you?" Jason asks. "If anything, it's us that should be asking for your forgiveness. We did this to you, Jeremy. Not intentionally, but we did it never the less."
"Jeremy, I'm truly sorry for calling you a dumb kid. Truth be known, you're the smartest of the three of us. Please accept my apology and let's part as equal brothers."
"Thank you. That's all I want is for us to be equals. Not to be baby brother, boy, kid, or dumb kid."
He holds his hand out to Josh and they shake hands.
"Jeremy, if there ever comes a time that you want to come home, just know the door is always open. We'll be there waiting for you with open arms. I love you, brother." Jason holds his fist out in front of them. Josh places his hand on Jason's fist. Jeremy slightly grins and places his hand on Josh's. "Well, I guess we better head out. Take care of yourself and stay in touch." He looks at Candy. "You ready to go, Candy?"
Candy takes a deep breath. "I'm sorry, but I'm not going. I'm staying here with Jeremy."
"Candy!" Jeremy moans. "You can't do that!"
"And why not? Jeremy, you came to New Bedford and talked me into coming to Seattle by promising me a husband. We fell in love and you promised to be that husband someday. I can't marry you if I return to Seattle and you stay here. Now can I? So I'll stay here with you until you're ready to make me your wife."
Jeremy's annoyance level begins to rise. "And what happens if I go somewhere else? You gonna follow me there, too?"
"Yes, I am. You're not getting rid of me, Jeremy Bolt. That's a promise," Candy says sternly.
"Oh good grief," Jeremy moans. "Jason, Josh, do something! Get her to go with you!"
"Candy, you can't stay with Jeremy. It hasn't been a year yet since you brides came to Seattle. If you don't go back there, then Stempel wins the mountain," Josh informs her.
"Mountain? I don't care about that mountain. It's not important to Jeremy anymore, so it's not important to me anymore either. I'm sorry Jason, Joshua that you'll lose it, but I can't help it. Jeremy means more to me than that stupid mountain."
"Candy! I never said the mountain means nothing to me. I can't believe you'd do this. Make us lose the mountain? What has gotten into you?" Jeremy asks.
"You don't know? Honestly, Jeremy sometimes you're so clueless," Candy cries. "I'm doing this because I want to be with the man I love. I love you, Jeremy Bolt." She holds up her heart necklace and shows it to Jeremy. "There's a hole in my own heart that only you can fill. Remember you gave me your heart. I'm begging you to please. . .don't break this one too." She leans over and kisses Jeremy on the lips.
He tastes her tears and he hugs her tight. "I'm sorry."
CHAPTER 28
Days later, Jason and Josh ready the buckboard for the return trip home. Jason helps Allyn up on the seat, then goes to the back to help Candy get Jeremy settled on a much padded wagon bed.
"Jason, I don't know if I'm doing the right thing by going back to Seattle. What if the men blame me for the payroll gone missing?" Jeremy asks.
"They won't. They don't even know it was missing," Jason replies.
"What? You didn't tell them? Didn't they ask why they weren't being paid?"
"There was no need to say anything about the missing payroll. Josh rode here to the bank and got a loan. He got back in time to pay the men." He ties Brownie to the back of the wagon. "I just came from the bank where I repaid the loan. We never have to mention this again."
Tears fill Jeremy's eyes. "You kept this from the men to protect me, didn't you?"
"Yes, I did. Only you, Josh, and I know the truth. Well, Candy and Allyn know it now, but they won't say anything about it either."
"Thank you, Jason. I owe you and Josh so much. I don't know how I'll ever repay you."
"No need to. We're brothers, remember." He pats Jeremy's shoulder as he walks by. "Let's go home!"
The Seattle bound travelers ride through town. Josh leads on horseback followed by the buckboard.
On the trip back, Jeremy and Candy talk things over. "Jeremy, are you happy about going back to Seattle?"
Jeremy sighs, "I don't know, Candy. In a way I am, but then in another way, I'm scared to death."
"Scared? What are you scared of?"
"I'm afraid of always being a kid. Of not being taken seriously. This all started because I wanted to be recognized as a man. What if everyone thinks of me as being that dumb, naive kid that believed he could just go off with some men who was playing him for a fool? I guess I was actually too dumb to see what was right before my eyes."
"Stop it. Stop putting yourself down. You are not a dumb kid nor are you a fool. Jeremy, Rick and Mark told you what they knew you wanted to hear. They made you believe you could trust them. And being the kindhearted, trusting young man that you are, you did trust them. There's nothing wrong with that. It's not your fault that they double-crossed you."
Jeremy is silent for a little while. "Hmm, maybe. Enough about this. I have a question for you?"
"Oh, you do, do you?" she playfully teases.
"Yes, I do. Would you really have followed me where ever I went? What if you lost track of me? What would you have done being out there all alone?"
"If I had lost track of you, I know that you would have turned around and found me when you noticed I wasn't around. You wouldn't let me be out there alone. I have faith in you, Jeremy." She kisses his shoulder. "I love you, Jeremy Bolt."
Jeremy gives her that beautiful big smile that she loves. "I love you too, Miss Pruitt." He leans over and kisses her lips. "And I love the way you love me. Thank you."
"My pleasure." She lays her head on his shoulder while he lays his head against hers.
Allyn turns her head to look in the back of the wagon. She smiles and whispers to Jason. "I think you can stop worrying about Jeremy. He's going to be just fine. Candy will see to it. Look at them."
Jason glances back at them. "I think you're right. I'm looking forward to having my litt, hmm, my brother back with us. I'm going to have to watch saying that. Old habits are hard to break."
"If you slip up, I'm sure Jeremy will be happy to remind you," she laughs.
THE END