Cheyenne

Cheyenne11

She was running for her life. Praying to God with every step she took. The long dirty skirt she wore got tangled in her feet, she almost started to cry. They were after her; they knew she and Morgan had escaped. No mercy will they have? No, they only knew evil. She thought of Morgan, the fourteen year old who was picked up in front of her own home. Her hip was hurt, she cried some, but she wasn’t afraid, she would fight. Suddenly car lights opened up the darkness. Cheyenne was in the middle of the road; the driver would either stop or run her down. It was his call. The bikers were almost with in touching distance.2

The driver reached out and pulled her across his lap into the passenger seat. She wrapped her skirt around her feet; they were cut and bleeding from running on the broken sidewalk.3

The driver hit the gas about the time the bikers got to the car.4

He drove away to safely stop, he took our his cell phone and dialed some numbers.5

He spoke to Ken, told him a young girl had flagged him down.6

The bikers and the woman were in Dad’s old fishing shack. Also they are holding a young girl about fourteen, she was too badly injured to get a way but the rescuer hid her before she ran for safety. Ken already had cars on the road, was leaving for back up, Phillip told him to send a couple of vans, there was a lot of loot in the old hotel basement, including some home made whiskey and Meth. With in a quarter of an hour the blue lights were in sight. They went into the camp parking lot.7

Parking in a way to keep the riders from escaping. Cheyenne had told him, the one named Big Sam tried to rape her. She would have died rather than allow that for herself or Morgan.8

Phillip got around to introducing himself, as Phillip Diamond,9

Part owner and business manager of the Diamond Grand Hotel10

He lived on the top floor, pent house, alone. He asks if she had anyplace to go. She said no, if she had she would not have been in the fishing camp tied up in a basement not fit for pigs to live in. Phillip told her he was taking her to his apartment.11

The house doctor would welcome a patient not after sleeping pills or nerve pills. He told her he worked with Kirk and Ken trying to find young run always, uniting them with their parents. Some times they got lucky, but most of the time there is mo way to get the kids to go back. He employed as many as he could at the hotel. Kirk was a full time, over time, keeper of young people. His mother was a drunk, he never had a good home until Pop gave in and took him into the family. They had lived in the family house then. Kirk just fit right in. Then there was Ken’s upside down life. He had married Carol right out of collage. He had a room in our house. Every one of them took care of his little sister. She was born when he was about fourteen. She road in a basket on either bikes, she went to base ball practice in the summer, foot ball in the fall, the cheer leaders took care of her. So long as she didn’t go near the water, she could stay with them.12

When the police vans and cars left Phillip pulled out behind them. He told Cheyenne to take a nap; she had to be worn out.13

She told him she was so thirsty she could drink river water. He reached behind her seat and brought out three bottles of water. Never again would it taste as good. Well sated on water Cheyenne, went to sleep. Phillip had to feel sorry for her; wherever she had been she had been treated rough. She should have some story to tell. Little did he know at that time?14

She would save his family.15

The trip back to St. Augustine was made in record time. Ken kept Phillip informed of the booking and charges. He said they had found more than they could handle in one trip. He wasn’t sure a couple didn’t hide out in the old hotel. If it goes up in flames we will know. Phillip turned the phone off. What a night,16

He had been to a dinner party given by Senator Vander. He had been misinformed by his daughter Elizabeth. She had told him17

Phillip was going to ask him for her hand in marriage. She had even saved him the trouble of buying a ring; Her Daddy had it in his coat pocket to slip to Phillip. When the time came for toasts the Senator announced he had some pleasure to share.18

If Phillip would just stand and put the ring on her finger, the most difficult part of getting engaged was over. Phillip was seeing red. He slapped the ring to the floor, and turned to Elizabeth. He told her she had played a trick on him to get him there, he wasn’t asking for her hand anymore than he would for a glass of water in hell. Elizabeth covered her tracks well. She said her Daddy had misunderstood. She had intended to ask him to marry her. Phillip turned and left the stately house, paid the attendant and went in a straight line to the old fishing19

Camp road. For all he knew it might have burned down. He was20

Still furious when he realized there was a woman standing in the middle of the road in front of the camp. He had no choice but to stop. That was when he heard the bikers running and cussing. They were after the girl. He reached out and hooked her in his arm, brought her over his lap and into the passenger seat. She was a little thing, clothes half torn off, feet cut from the ragged street, her hair looked worse than a horses tail. Who ever cut it had no eye for beauty.21

They were near the Diamond Grand, he had wanted her to see it, and in it’s Thanksgiving finery .She awakened easily. He told her this is where you will be living for a while. The bright lights dazzled her. He drove around to the back to his private entrance. The elevator was glass, and as clean as any thing could be. Phillip had a wheel chair in the garage. He went to bring it out. Cheyenne almost fainted from pain and the trauma of the day. Phillip put her in the chair and rolled her to the elevator, took time to park his car. She was in awe of the elevator; of course she had seen one before even rode with Caroline. They went straight to the top floor. Phillip wheeled her down a short hall to a door, which were two doors. Again he had to get his key out. He told her every one who had permission to go inside had their own key. The elevator was locked all time. From the up stairs could be seen any one entering, and while they made the assent. The door remained locked until some one with a key came by or some one in side unlocked it.22

They were on the landing, two steps down to go into the living room more to go up stairs She was expecting wealth and the beauty it can buy, but the rooms didn’t look that way. She knew expensive when she saw it. The living room where they went was carpeted in off white. The windows were covered with shears and velvet drapes, which fell straight and folded like a pool of gold. The stairs were open; the next room was a dinning room. The kitchen in back of that. Phillip told her there was balconies out side every door. She loved the sound of the ocean. She remembered when she came to Florida with Sid and Caroline. They shared a bungalow with George and Betty. Caroline refused to come down if they were going to be there.23

She could see the pool and umbrellas, in so many colors on the beach. Aunt Caroline didn’t go out much, because her skin was so fair, but Cheyenne was naturally brown, the sun didn’t burn her.24

Getting to the hotel had been a milestone for Cheyenne. Just take it one day at a time, don’t look forward to any thing, don’t let anyone get close; it hurts too much when they leave your life. Cheyenne had not told Phillip enough, just enough to get Morgan to safety and her out of the filth of the hotel. She didn’t have any clothes, not even her ring, The Mother had kept it. The Mother had told her she had devils skin. She hadn’t even cared when Sister Alice was murdered. Just had a simple funeral and burial in the convent garden where they were allowed a few minutes in the after noon. Where she had last seen Cathy.25

Phillip had already called Myra, didn’t tell her much but she would be there with a frown and tender heart. Cheyenne was left in the wheel chair, no need to move her anymore than necessary. He called the switchboard to send the house doctor up in about an hour, then called the kitchen an ordered a large platter of food. The girl had to be hungry, she had inhaled two bottles of water, and he gave her more from the refrigerator. A wine o wouldn’t have been any happier. Cheyenne counted all her blessings big one’s and small. She had never had any real religious desire; it would have been a sin to be a Nun when she hated it. She thought also it was probably against someone’s law to make someone become a Nun against their will. As for being Jewish, she thought one had to be born in to that religion.26

Myra was the next one to arrive; she was ready to give Phillip what far until she saw the girl. Her resentment went to zero. Phillip took Cheyenne to the bathroom, and left Myra the chore of cleaning her up. Myra had seen a lot in her day, but never anyone as mistreated as this girl was, she had scars on her back and on her legs. Her hair looked like an old Raggedy Anne doll. Her skin looked worse than field hands. It would be months before she could call her self-well to go any place. She had ask Cheyenne about family. Cheyenne told her, they were mostly dead. She had a brother somewhere, but he had changed his last name and she couldn’t remember it. Her Pa had thought he was Nathan’s father, but Nathan knew better. His mother told him on her deathbed who his real father was.27

Cheyenne was Pa’s all right. She would run and hide if she heard Pa’ voice. Myra said what a shame for a man to take death out on the baby he sired.28

Bath over, Phillip brought a gown he said belonged to his sister. She protested but he insisted, he told her his sister would be happy to share her clothes. He would get some to fit the next day. Myra told her she just as well leaves him alone, he needed something to crowd out his black cloud. Cheyenne ask Myra if something was wrong with his sister, they talked about her as if she was dead. Myra told her to hear it from Phillip. He would tell her all about it when they got the present mess cleaned up.29

Cheyenne ask what if she knew something that might help to find her. Myra said honey if you can do that you have a place in my heart and home until kingdom come. Cheyenne smiled for the first time. She asks Myra if she believed in second sight. Myra told her she had never experienced it but she didn’t say it was wrong. Cheyenne told her she had been able to see things when she was younger, she hadn’t practiced it since she was ten, but she thought if she could have some paper and pens she could tell Phillip something. Myra told her right after they ate she would get what she needed out of Phillips computer.30

Time to eat, way past time for Cheyenne. She asks for milk and more milk, said she had not had milk or juice since she left New York. The convent only served oats and bread with jelly they canned from the garden. Phillip came to get her, she looked better all ready, the hair would have to be cut even shorter but it curled and would actually look cute, it was black. Her skin was he hoped not beyond care, her feet would heal but the skin was like leather. How she would like to get that witch of a Reverend Mother for a few minutes she would put some mortal hurt on her. 31

For Cheyenne she kept smiles but in side she was boiling over. Cheyenne was going to be one of her children just like the boys. Of course Ken had a wife and twins with a nice home, and his wife had a nice job doing private duty at the hospital. She loved Miss Barbara; she had been with Ken all their lives, stood back and let him do the boy things that they did.32

The doctor came after the meal was over, he said she would be off her feet for two weeks to a month, soaked every day, dressed and kept covered, no shoes. Kirk said he could do the dressings, doctor said he wasn’t going to take his only legal patient away from him, he would come up every morning and do the dressing, thank you very much. Cheyenne wheeled her self around, back to the open windows where the ocean could be heard, she thought she was going to sleep, but she had to see Kirk and Kin before her back touched a pillow. So much to tell and explain, would they believe she had not been able to call anyone in those years, they had one phone in the convent, it was in Mother’s Office, all ways locked up and besides who could she call, where was Doris? Uncle George, he would have her locked up in the basement. Where was Nathan and Pete, she still didn’t know her brothers last name. There are some things simply impossible. She took enough beatings as it was to make her remember she belonged to them, body and soul.33

They talked a short time, Morgan’s parents wanted to see her. And help her if they could. She was just too worn out to see any one for a few days. She had to start working on finding Nathan and Pete. She had to draw some pictures to show Phillip. Myra brought her computer paper, and pens. Cheyenne went to the desk to draw, a few strokes to each one was all she needed. When she finished she took the papers to Phillip and ask him to look at them please, he hesitated but looked at them, and looked some more, he called his two friends over so they could judge. They were of Cathy, Elizabeth and Jewel. No doubt in anyone’s mind. Myra had taken a look when she brought the wheel chair over. 34

The men were beside themselves. Kirk wanted to go to Mexico right then, Ken said no they had some groundwork to do first. Find out where he was keeping her, guards, dogs, and guns. When he was away from the place. First he would have to bring Elizabeth in for questioning. She would probably be indicted, but not right away. As it worked out Elizabeth did confess to her part in Cathy’s abduction. Jewels would have her killed if she told; she was tired of being afraid all the time. She wanted to talk with Phillip, but he refused to see her. His message to her was.35

He would see her in court.36

In the mean time Cheyenne was on her own or where ever she wanted to go in the Pent House. She loved the big balcony over the ocean. The sand was not as white in St Augustine as it was on the Gulf side, but the cobble streets, the closed off town squire gave the shoppers and vacation people all the safety they needed, having no traffic. She was glad they were not on the gulf shores, too many memories, happy ones with Sid and Caroline when she was less than ten. Phillip had bought a load of clothes, lounging pajamas, under wear, fancy stuff, and gowns. Satin house shoes, a dressing gown, out fits of slacks and blouses, long skirts and sandals when she could wear them. The hotel had a work out gym in the basement, a good place for her to build up her muscle tone. And a tanning bed, she needed some color in her face.37

Books, enough to keep her busy for a year. She didn’t notice the TV for several days. She had not seen one since she was ten. The set was like a cabinet, she opened it up. The news was on CNN, and whom else did she see? Her brother, her beautiful brother Nathan. He was a man. Broad shoulders, slim, dressed to the nines. Oh if Caroline could just see him. She just sat down on the floor in front of the set; it was in color, something entirely different to Cheyenne. Phillip and Kirk were working none stop on tracing the trail of Cathy and the man who took her. Heavens, she prayed don’t let Phillip kill him. He would want to, might even try. He would lose it all if he did. Kirk seemed to be the strong man of the three, Ken the calm one, and Phillip the one to get things done. 38

She knew Phillip wanted to be in Mexico but all three of them could not be gone at the same time. Mr. D seemed useless, as to perusing the man named Jewel. He had come close to a heart attack when they told him what had happened and who was involved. He went straight to the governor of Florida, to work on getting Jewel arrested and back in the states. Political asylum did not cover what this man had done. Elizabeth would testify against him to get a break for her self.39

Cheyenne had picked her information up from conversations between Phillip and his friends. Nathan was speaking on the TV. She turned it up to get his voice better. He had been running for some office, which he won. She could see banners with his name; he had changed it to Winslow. It didn’t tell her where he lived but she could get hold of Pete, call information get the number and dial, that was all she had to do to bridge a fifteen year gap in her life.40

Cheyenne took the phone off the desk to the floor with her, called long distant information in Colorado, got a number for Pete Winslow, the operator said she could put the connection through for her, she said yes please. A woman with a strange voice answered, sounded like Mexico. She asks if either Mr. Winslow was in, the woman said both only Mr. Pete. Cheyenne ask for him. He answered the phone in a rough voice, which she remembered. He ask if some one was on the line, she hardly could speak, finally she said Uncle Pete, he shouted Cheyenne as loud as he could. 41

She answered Yes Uncle Pete it is I. I saw Nathan on the TV and had to try and get to you, I didn’t know what your last name was or his either. Cheyenne don’t you apologize for anything, every dark thing is set aside.42

Where are you? She told him in Florida, she was staying with the man who saved her life. His name Phillip Diamond, owner and business manager of the Diamond, in St. Augustine City.43

She had been there for about a week, Mr. Diamond was working on a project, which demanded all his time right now. Yes Cathy she is his sister, they haven’t seen her yet but they know where in Mexico she was being held against her will. Mr. Diamond had two friends helping to find her. Pete asks if by chance his name was Morris Diamond. She told him yes that is his name. Pete knew the man, had worked on a project to save the marshland a few years back. How was she? Where was she living, was she all right? She answered, she was fine except her feet were torn up she was using a wheel chair, she was with Mr. Diamond in his pent house. He had saved her life, after she helped an abducted girl get away.44

How did she get to Florida and from where? She knew he had to hear the outline of the story. She told him about the death of Caroline and Sid. He said he and Nathan were in the mountains hunting Elk, they found out about the car bombing.45

Went to New York to question George, he said some one snatched you at the funeral service. She said no he sent her to a private airfield; the pilot took her to Mexico and left her at a Catholic convent. She had stayed there until the first of November. She was held against her will, but had no way to call anyone, she didn’t know his last name, and it had been too long. The only phone was in the Mother’s office, which was locked all time. No one was brave enough to help her except two workers there Maria and Tony. Kirk was bringing them across today. 46

It had been awful, the Nuns were horrible. She went to collage two whole years with two of them looking over her shoulder, she couldn’t even close the stall door in the bathroom. They looked at every book or paper she handed in or received .She got away before they made her take the vows.47

She got to Florida by bus, not intentionally but that was as far from the convent as her ticket went. When Phillip found her she was standing in the middle of the road, weighting for help or death. He told her that was enough; she would have to go over every inch of it with Nathan. She ask what he had been running for, He told her District Representative, the one who had been in had died suddenly. She told Pete to tell him how and what he wanted him to know. George had paid a lot of money to the convent to keep her; she wasn’t allowed to take anything with her. She had been wearing a ring on a chain, which she got for her birthday. It was taken from her later. Were they mean to her?. Yes they had been mean. Phillip’s sister Cathy has been missing over a year. She was there for rehab. Drugs were forced on her. A woman the men know was in charge of her. She wanted to marry Phillip, but he couldn’t stand her; she is Governor Dorian's daughter. She told him she was really all right. She did want to see them as soon as possible, and no she didn’t plan to go back with them, she and Nathan had a lot before them to straighten out the Goldman Estate. Half of it belonged to them, if not more. Sid may have deeded it all to the two of them, or maybe just her since she was their legal daughter. He would get a third, He was half Goldman also. It would be a big affair; lawyers would be busy for a year to find all the accounts George had hidden away. Then there was the house and the Florida house. If he wanted to get a lawyer started on it was OK by her, just so he understands he is to work with Phillip and his friends. Pete said that would not be a problem. They hung up on I love you. 48

Phillip came home shortly after she talked with Pete. He said he was wondering why she had not called him. She told him she had been afraid they would insist on her going back with them. He asks her if she wanted to stay there, she said yes or some place near. She had to be there in case Cathy needed her or if the law needed her to testify on the way they treated her. He told her he didn’t want her to leave, later on a short vacation to the land of snow, but they had so much cooking right then, he just could not leave, she told him she knew that. They had to pay some attention to Uncle George, and the Goldman fortune, which should be hers and Nathan’s. She knew in her heart the past years had been on account of George’s greed .She hoped he liked cement walls and broken floors.49

Phillip told Cheyenne they would go to New York as soon as they got Cathy home and taken care of. Not knowing what kind of shape she was in was driving him crazy. If they were forcing drugs on her they were probably using alcohol also. Cathy never drank, not even when she was a kid and every one else was drinking, neither did she do drug, by the time she got out of school he had been in a war, and she had grown up. No more rides on my bike, no more keeping her away from the water. Men. He had men to worry about employment. Would she be so disgusted with men she would never consider marriage? Only one thing there was Kirk. He loved her like life it’s self. He went bananas when she disappeared. He grew up with them, she was like his little sister, he never had girl friends, and although he could have had anyone he wanted. He was and still is a handsome devil. We never have talked about it. They doubt he knows they picked up on it a long time ago. And to further complicate the situation she loved him, she all but worshiped him. Kirk would be too honorable to approach her, before he learned how she felt. When it was all in the clear they would be free to marry, it just depended on what Cathy’s behavior was like.50

Kirk had found a boy willing to take some chances, to get to the USA. Kirk told him he would get him over and help get his citizen license, if he found just where Jewel and Cathy were. He told Kirk he already knew. He had made arrangements for Kirk to ride in on a supply truck so he could scout the place out. Kirk felt as if he could fly, he was making some headway. He met the truck gave the driver who spoke English some money, more to be given when they got back, and no the money wasn’t in his pocket it was with the chief of Police. The boy just grinned, he said why would he steal from a man who was saving his life. He lived in the Don’s big house. Like Tony he had used his favor, he belonged to the Don body and soul. Kirk told him his body and soul would soon be free, maybe as soon as the next day, depending on what they found at the house. The driver went through the gates and right up to the house. Kirk could count, four guards with guns and dogs. The driver told him the biggest meanest dog was in the house keeping a death grip watch over Cathy. He had seen him one day when she got as far as the veranda. She was limp, looked awful, and she was heavy with a child. Kirk almost broke his own silence to scream no, but the driver talked him down. He also wanted to leave Mexico. Kirk didn’t know what to tell Phillip. He had to tell him the truth. He helped unload the truck, Jewels wasn’t at home so the housekeeper said. He would be gone until late tomorrow. Kirk wanted to snatch her right then, but he didn’t know what kind of shape she was in, he would come back in a UNIBAC with medical supplies, a medic if he could get one, the woman said she was ready to deliver, she promised she would tell the girl he had been there and would be back before dark tomorrow.51

After picking up Tony and Maria with the truck driver, Kirk made the trip back to St. Augustine City, in a state of frustration and52

anger at himself for not bringing her out, but if it was her time to deliver what would he do? Phillip had gone to the Pent House to spend some time with Cheyenne. He hated what he had to do. He went straight to the Grand from the airport. Turned his new friends over to Robert, Myra’s husband, he was in charge of security. He would find them a place to sleep and eat. Tomorrow they would find better quarters. He didn’t know if the girl and Tony was a couple, he thought so, the driver didn’t care, and he had no one.53

Kirk, used his cell phone to call Ken to come as soon as possible he didn’t want to have to go over this but one time. Ten minutes later the van came in the private drive with every light on. He also had his own key, and went on up. Kirk was having some food and milk, he hadn’t thought about eating all day. He hoped Robert would see to his passenger’s welfare and get them some food. When Ken came in Kirk had him in a bear hug, telling him he had found Cathy. Cheyenne wanted to know if she needed to go up stairs, they said no she was family. Kirk went through the trip inch by inch. When he got to the part about seeing Cathy so heavy, with child he lost it. They had to let him cry it out . He told them he had always thought Cathy’s babies would be his, he knew Phillip would hate him, but he couldn’t help it and she felt the same way. They hadn’t done anything about it out of respect to the family. He loved her and would marry her as soon as he could.54

They told him they had known for years how the two felt. There would be no hesitation when he wanted to marry her. Phillip said he would tell his Dad, he had sent him to the Keys for fishing to keep him out of the world of hurt he was going to feel. His heart was weak; he couldn’t stand to see this play out. Ken had come in, was filled in on what he missed, Kirk couldn’t do it again. Ken gave them his take on what Elizabeth had written in her account of the things she had been in on. She had brought Jewels to the picnic, hoping Cathy would pay some attention to him, it went just the opposite. Jewel had even tried to over come Cathy in the elevator. Elizabeth was sure if she could bring someone in to take Cathy’s attention off her brothers she might have some time with Phillip. Then Phillip went off, he had wanted to kill her for trying to hook him into an engagement, and he should have done it then. Cheyenne very softly talked him down; he sat on the couch with his arm around her. She was holding his hands, she so little and defenseless looking beside the muscle up sportsmen was quiet a picture to see.55

Kirk went on with his adventure, he told Phillip he had brought three out, and they had helped him at the danger of losing their life. Cheyenne had gone mouth dry, and had to ask for water before she could speak. She ask if he had seen Maria, Kirk said yes she and Tony with another young boy were resting where ever Robert put them for the night. Phillip said Hell, put them in the best rooms we have open. Kirk told him he was sure Robert had placed them in a nice place.56

Next day Phillip called the hospital what they could be ready for, so they could have a specialist waiting when they got back.57

He was assured there would be the best doctor there. Every thing would be covered, if he could have called before they came in would have helped them prepare. Kirk told them he would do that. He went to his suit of rooms, which were also his office; he had to sleep some, to stay able to go through what was waiting tomorrow.58

Cheyenne was restless when every one left. She was thinking about the odds on Cathy and her being in the same place, she had felt a kinship with her. They would be the best of friends, no matter what happened with Phillip and her. She loved him, but she had heard him say he was past the age of wanting a family; she had been wounded hearing that from him. He didn’t know she had heard him, and she would never ask him.59

She loved every thing about him, his little boy look, when he was enjoying something. His natural care for people in distress. Taking the entire load off his Dad. No one but a good man would do so much, and love so deeply. She wanted so much to be loved that way, to know anything she did would be fine with him. He would teach her the things she needed to know to avoid embarrassing him in public. But did he want her to stay here? He had never mentioned it; he had never touched her, except to carry her up the stairs, until tonight. His hands on her shoulders and back sent bolts of lightening through her body. What would she do if she just could not keep her hands off him? Pretend she was sleeping walking. Yes that would be a good self-defense story.60

Cheyenne had changed into a gown and went to the balcony for some air and listen to the waves as they danced on the sand in the dark, the white caps were visible. Tomorrow. Tomorrow all their lives would change; she just prayed not one would be lost.61

Morning brought sunshine, no chance of storms in the next twenty-four hours. A paramedic had volunteered to go with them. The chopper was a large one from the National Guard. There was room for Cathy to lie down, and room for the Medic to work if he had to .It was nearly dark when the chopper set down, it was as quiet as a BMW. The guards didn’t know they were there until they felt the cold barrel of a gun in their neck.62

Weapons down with out any fuss. The dogs were worthless. If the one inside was just as easy to get along with. The old man and woman went inside their apartment and locked the doors, and turned off the lights. The guard who spoke English said Jewel had gone out dressed fancy; he probably would be gone a long time. He left the girl alone more and more as her due date came closer. All three of the men went to the door, Phillip called Cathy’s name, she answered, and the dog began to growl. They slowly opened the door; Cathy was on the bed, restrained at the ankles and wrists flat on her back, laboring for air. They cut the restraints on the wrist first, then the tape on her mouth. She begged for water, she was starved for water. One of the boys got water from a freezer, she drank down three eight ounces of cold water, she said she thought her water had broke, she needed to clean up. Phillip told her he would wrap a blanket around her, he would take to the bathroom if she needed to go. She said no, she had not had water since last night. She was holding on to Phillip and Kirk, it would take both to get her to the chopper. When they picked her up the dog jumped, a gunshot and a knife got there at the same time. He was dead before he hit the floor. There was nothing there that she wanted, just to get out and do something about her baby. He had made her take pills and alcohol. The baby hadn’t moved all day, she thought it was dead. The medic checked her over when they got to the chopper, she was in early labor, and there was no fetal heartbeat, not even when on the monitor. They would try to get her to the hospital but it was doubtful, a dry delivery was to hard on mother and child, but this child would never know what pain was, only the joy of the here after.63

Later they learned Jewel was picked up that night and jailed in Mexico City, on possession to sale and use of drugs. One, which the medic knew about. It was a killer, once taken the person would never want for any thing else, it literally turned the brain to mush. They pulled in the emergency room parking just before daylight. The nurses were ready; they had kept radio contact on and off. The doctors were scrubbing, and ready for the surgery before they got her clean and prepped Mr. Diamond had been called and flew in from the Keys. Phillip had to call Cheyenne and Myra. He took a seat for a few minutes, to do that. Myra was crying. She was on her way to the hospital. She had raised that child since her Mother had died when she was one. Myra and Robert had moved into the family house. Mr. Diamond had lost all interest in the children or the hotel, between the time Phillip had gone to collage and four years in the Service the Diamond Grand was ready to sell at auction. Her and Robert had been Mother and father to the three boys and the baby. Mr. Phillip had pulled the hotel up to a decent place if not the best place in the day. Slowly Phillip was able to turn it around. With money coming in on the Missing Child organization, some life set up in the Grand. Myra never had children, and she loved Phillip and Cathy as if they were hers. Cathy was in surgery when Myra got there. One of the doctors came out and talked to Phillip and Mr. Diamond,64

Phillip motioned Kirk and Myra to listen in. The doctor told them she had been force fed narcotics and alcohol, they would have to put her on an alcohol drip and Morphine until she was strong enough to wean herself off. Taking her off cold turkey would kill her. Her baby was dead at birth, probably for several days. Death in this case was a blessing; the child would have had to be institutionalized, all his life. They were finished with him but Cathy would be in there at least another hour, then recovery where they could go in two at a time, for five minutes.65

Did they want to tell her about the baby or should the recovery nurse? Phillip said he didn’t think he could, it would be better all around if they told her, and she might even want to hold him. They agreed if she asks to see him she would be allowed. In the meantime arrangements had to be made.66

They settled on a graveside funeral in the cemetery his Grand Mother was in. Cathy would have to give them a name for him.67

The nurse said they could see him and hold him if they wanted to, he was in the dirty nursery. They wanted to see him and hold him. Phillip feared for his Father’s heart, but if he saw every thing he would not ever have reason to accuse them of keeping secrets from him. He was a beautiful baby, black hair and dark skin, his little fists were closed, and he had good skin and muscle tone, fingernails and toenails, eyebrows and cupid lips. Phillip thought he would smother if he didn’t get away .In the lobby Robert and Cheyenne were waiting, Robert gave him a man’s hug, but Cheyenne gave him what he needed, he knew he had her love, and he would give his to her. He might be too old to marry some one as young as her. But he could no longer be with out her. He hugged her and called her his darling. Every one knew better times were coming their way. Every one loved Cheyenne, they didn’t know much about her, except she was a fighter.68

The funeral for the baby was private, family only. It had started to rain; one of the nurses had made good pictures of him. They could get them anytime. The half hour it took to put him away seemed like a day to the family. They had to be strong for Cathy. Kirk had told them he was staying with her day and night until she was safe to leave in the daytime. Cheyenne said she would do days. Mr. Diamond would be in and out, to give the sitters a break. Ken’s wife was a special forces RN. She would be there until it was safe to leave her. Her sister was flying in to take care of the twins and the house. That was music to the family’s ears. Cheyenne remembered Pete and Nathan would be in town for two days, she had to get back to the apartment right away. Robert had to check on the new people, and would take her with him. She kissed Phillip goodbye. She had not even seen Maria and Tony yet, and she was supposed to take Maria shopping. Not to the shop in the lobby, but to some good shopping place, Tony needed clothes also but he would wear the same thing forever before he would ask for help.69

2)Cheyenne70

Cheyenne and Phillip were not good at keeping secretes, but they were not about to answer the questions. Cathy was completely out of the picture. But they still weren’t going to tell. She improved daily.71

All she wanted to talk about was going home for Thanksgiving. That thought helped her make it through many bad days and nights. She had been gone so long, but nothing had been moved in the house and the grounds looked like a picture from a book. She ask Cheyenne if she had a green thumb, she told her no, she hadn’t ever been able to make anything grow. Had she gained any weight, yes five pounds, She said she didn’t want to get big and fat, Phillip didn’t like big and fat.72

Later in the evening the bad ones came calling. Cathy had been alone for just about ten minutes; the nurse went in on shift rounds found her almost off the bed, IV lines out, blood going all over the bed. Kirk came in while they were cleaning her up. He had to be told what had happened; even though they also knew he would have someone’s job over it. But as usually happened with Kirk he blamed himself. He was slow getting finished, traffic heavy, heavy lot of teens on summer break. No one’s fault really, just so she is all right. The nurse was almost bowing as she went out the door to tell her fellow teammates they would not get fired over this one.73

Myra and Maria were working on Thanksgiving already; they cooked every thing they could freeze. That saved a lot of last minute work on the Day. Every one wanted to talk and just take it easy for one day. Pete and Nathan would be there; Barbara’s sister could come and help with the twins.74

When Nathan and Pete got in on Wednesday, Nathan had presents for the children and the Lady of the hour Miss Cathy .A big box of cigars to be smoked all the way to the fishing dock, if anyone could walk that far. Cheyenne and Phillip were there bright and early the next morning. The house was perfect as it was, live flowers had been brought in, the scent of autumn was in the air. The slightest smell of wood smoke made some homesick.75

Cheyenne couldn’t remember the last time she had Thanks giving, with Sid and Caroline. They had a big party most of the time catered, with wine pouring like water. She had never talked religion with them but she always ask God to for give her for making it look as if she believed in it. There were many little cousins to get to know but they didn’t care about Cheyenne, all they wanted to know what it was like being an orphan. Cheyenne over heard them making fun, as adults making the same remarks and cemented her No I Will No Go76

if she were to be ask.77

Cheyenne could hear something like a train, she knew the tracks didn’t run this close to the house; she went to the front door and placed the sound coming from the living room. She opened the door just a peep, and almost fell out of shoes. There sat her brother in the middle of this mansion’s living room floor setting up a train that reached around the room. The Caboose had real smoke, which smelled like burning wood. He had a farm and a village with some people at their chores. She had to shut the door to laugh; she wouldn’t ruin this moment for anything. She wondered if Nathan would ever find a wife. He was in his early thirties, very handsome, intelligent, loving, and kind. Did taking care of her cause him to not want children? She would be sure to ask him, and find some way around it. She wouldn’t go through twenty-five years again for any reason .She had been happy with78

Sid and Caroline, and very happy with Phillip and his never-ending family. Phillip had promised he would go with her to New York right after Thanksgiving. It was already snowing there. She missed the snow so much. The Hudson River home owners made sure it stayed clean, a racket of any kind brought out the ever-vigilant night men with guns.79

Dinner was on the table, a feast they had cooked, Cheyenne felt bad that she didn’t help, but the cooking she knew would not be eaten by this bunch. Just laborers and orphaned children who had no choice had to eat the course bread and fatty meat. Mr.D said a prayer giving thanks for all he had done for the family and sending Cheyenne to be part of them.80

Cathy’s house was the Old Southern State Colonial with authentic furnishings. No wonder she wanted to live there rather than in the Hotel. After dinner she walked Cheyenne around the rooms. The wood was hard wood. Fireplaces were of stone. The ceiling lights hung down, twinkling like candles. The living room now with a train running through it was furnished in dark red velvet and silk, black enamel lamps and light plates. Those magnificent high backed chairs, with footrest. Prize glass wears, a whole wall of pink glass, which her father had bought for her mother for years. In the study beneath a lamp was a picture of the most beautiful woman, beautiful81

Cheyenne had ever seen on paper or anyplace else.82

She had to catch her breath and sit down; Cathy told her it had the same effect on different people. They allowed people who helped come in and look at it hoping to jog some ones’ memories. It didn’t look at all like Cathy and sure not Cheyenne with her dark skin and unruly hair. Cheyenne went to get Nathan and Pete, they had not been in there yet, so they couldn’t have seen the picture. Cathy turned the light off until every one who wanted in could get there. Then she turned the light on and indicated the picture.83

No one knew what to say. Mr. D. told them he had bought it at a going out of business sale for a little or nothing had cleaned the frame. And window and gave it to his wife. Who does she look like Nathan, you should know or Pete. Tears were pouring from the eyes of Nathan and Pete, Sid could hardly talk had to go after water for every one. He said if he drank he would tie one on tonight. All those years they had been looking at Lilly Mare Goldman. Never giving a thought that she might have been. My God said Nathan she was more beautiful then than she was when she left. Cathy announced that was the color she wanted for her Wedding day; she knew no one could copy the pattern. But Cheyenne could, getting it made would be the only trouble, if she was still in hospital the dressmaker could see her there. It would be a break for the nursing staff. After all they couldn’t be at the wedding because it was going to be in Colorado.84

Then it was Pete’s turn to pay attention, in my house you want to have your wedding? What if the snow is knee deep, they can have their wedding night in the Cabin, won’t take much to fix it up. Of course now Kirk will have to go a head of time to get the license.85

Kirk slapped him on the back for that one; he didn’t care if he could go tomorrow. But the dress has to be made. Cathy insisted they listen to her, she was tired, and she had to go back before the sweating started. She thanked them for a great day and evening. She took time to say good night to Myra and Maria, and then she was gone. The rest had coffee and cake before leaving. They also prayed. And sent their love with thank you to the kitchen. Mr. D. Was so proud to have had the two families together, no two wanted to argue or have a fuss. The Twins had been very good, even the police dept had not called Ken about anything. Which could mean they are drunk or all locked in a cell. But what ever it had been the best time the old house had seen in many years.86

Cheyenne and Phillip were at a loss for what to do. After a big day like they had a long nap in the easy chair with the TV going would be the order of the day. But what about Cheyenne? No stores open today for buying clothes for Tony and Mira. They could use the scrubs the housekeepers wore. Phillip bet they did more than look for something to do. How could he keep Cheyenne with him and not touch her, last night he felt the vibrations when he put his arm around him. And she didn't take her hands away; she had kissed him at the hospital when the doctors told them how Cathy was. Did she share his feelings? She was so young, but he wasn't really old just forty, still able to carry his weight in anything he under took. He was respected in the town. A number of women had set to catch him but he didn't want to be caught, he wanted to be loved, and comfortable. He had to have trust and an open book to a wife to a87

better life. No secrets, no oh she forgot to tell. He didn't want to have to be on his good behavior all time. He lived a clean life, didn't drink or smoke, didn't drive a big car, or own race cars. He liked horses; maybe he needed to find out if Cheyenne liked horses. She had come down stairs with a novel she was reading. He asks her out right if she liked children, she told him yes, and she liked children. Would she want some of her own? That depended on what he was getting at. He said he was getting around to ask her to be his wife. He got up and went to her, she was crying. He was afraid he had hurt her feelings and asks her. No he hadn't hurt her feelings, he just removed the last thing that she had to worry about. If she didn't get anything from the Goldman Estate she could always teach. She could live with Pete and Nathan, throw their life in a whirl .She put her arms around him and kissed him with passion, the same vibrations she had felt before. She told him she loved him. He answered he loved her to distraction. She said she should go to a gyn doctor to check on having a baby. He said he would go with her. The evening news was on, the president had done something stupid again, had all the news people up set and trying to beat out the next man, she didn't know any thing about the state of the world, but this President took a bashing on the news every night. He was soon to be replaced. They both went up to take baths. When Cheyenne came out of her bathroom she wasn't surprised to find Phillip in her bed. He was wearing some kind of bright silk pajamas. She slipped her gown on over her head, no one had seen her naked since Aunt Caroline had given her last bath before she was killed. Phillip was a good bedmate; he gave her time to get used to having him in her bed before he jumped her bones. He expected her to be a virgin, and she was, she wouldn't give him time to play games with her, she wanted it over with. He made love to her gently and loving, her comfort became the most important thing in his life. She felt full filled, a woman, not a girl in a woman's body. She told him he was about to get pounced on if he hadn't make a move soon. He laughed and kissed her some more. She was still too thin, but the way she ate she should fill out. Do they make size 2 bridal gowns? The next time was her's to make him happy. She didn't know exactly what to do but she managed to get the reaction from him. About dawn they had gone to sleep. Phillip was up at eight but Cheyenne didn't awaken until almost noon. How did they feel? On top of the world.88

Would it show on their face? Would every one know by just looking? Who had time to feel guilty? He would only feel bad about it if she did. And she was still ready to go.89

Next came the trip to New York. Cheyenne really dreaded that one, she wanted to see the house and make a big deal over them living in90

It, when it should have been hers. On Tuesday Cathy was feeling well enough for Phillip to go to New York to find her Uncle George. Nathan would be there but not Uncle Pete. He didn’t want to get in it unless they needed him. The weather was so nasty, snow already thick on the ground. Phillip wanted to go by plane and get a car. Cheyenne was still working on the reading of that book she carried around. They had an appointment to see the Lawyer at the family bank, she would have to give blood to match to the Goldman family, and so would Nathan. He wasn’t going to like that. But Cheyenne didn’t want one stone unturned for the Goldman’s to have. Nathan knew of the over seas investments91

And the interest in gas. The lawyer Mr. Myers was straight forward with them. He had been holding the trust funds since Sid died. He knew what he and Caroline wanted. Of course their death came out of the blue you might say. They had no reason to think they would die until they were old and Cheyenne a grand mother herself.92

He asks if it would suit them to read the will with Nathan on the speakerphone. They were OK for that. Cheyenne was the main concern.93

She was left all the Sid Goldman and Caroline Goldman’s holdings, everyone money, house and all property belonging to the Goldman’s House,94

to Nathan and to Caroline. She also got one half of the third that belonged to Lilly Marie.95

Mr. Winslow would receive the second half; in any way he wanted it. Nathan said to leave his inheritance where it was for the time being. He needed to do some looking before he used any of it. He probably never would use it, but neither would George. Neither Sid nor Caroline left any thing to the Uncle. They needed to get the blood work done soon and get the process started, it took several days. The Lawyer looked to Cheyenne for instructions on what to do with her part. She knew nothing about companies, or bonds, or taxes, she had to turn to Phillip for advice. He said it would be best if he had called someone and talk to Mr. Myers; He didn’t want anything to be done on his say so. The Lawyer bid them good-bye and good luck. Cheyenne thanked him for protecting her inheritance for her. They were going to lunch, and then pay a visit to Uncle George at the discount store. There were something’s there she wanted to take home with her. Snow was coming down in sheets. They went to a nice place to have lunch, didn’t have to wait for a table. The food was good but not as good as the Grand. The snow was piling up on the cars, but there was no ice.96

Phillip called the airport to find out if the plane back to Florida was still, up, the lady said no flights had been cancelled as of yet. They went their way to the Foreign Export and Import.97

A lone sales man walked through the priceless things as if they were his. The cases were shining98

Blue velvet was the background for jewelry. Cheyenne looked but didn’t see any of Caroline’s.99

Then she saw the jewelry box. No one had opened it. She went right to it; a small box with a dancer on top was behind it. She told Phillip she had to have both boxes, could not leave them. Phillip told her to look around she might see some other things belonging to her parents.100

The picture of Caroline in ruby red, where was it. Phillip ask the salesman, he had not had it101

to sale. He said this floor of things just went on the market. It will move quickly, she ask how long he had it for sale, he told her just a week.102

It had belonged to a family who died a horrible death. Much time has to pass before those things are sold. Cheyenne was boiling mad. She was close to the man any way, turned and told him to take for sale off every thing in that order. He looked at her with a moment of hope. A moment was all she needed to get her self together; the salesman went to talk to the boss who was Uncle George. He came back huffing and puffing; wanting to know by whose law she ordered the removal of the sales tags. She said did you ever know a little girl named Cheyenne? Well here I am, every thing in here belongs to me, anything you have sold or shipped is mine. Phillip was calling the Lawyer, told him what was going on.103

He gave them his word he would see that George got every thing back and ready for shipment.104

He looked to Cheyenne for information. “Send it back to the house on Hudson Bay and put every piece where it came from, yes every thing, especially the china dolls. In fact I want them wrapped up and mailed to Florida. Every one of them. Phillip gave him a card. Cheyenne said there were ten of them, one brand new. You killed my parents before I got to even look at them. And I know about Mexico also, you paid them to keep me, they did, for years, but I would guess you have been informed about that. George said of course they had called him. Any thing concerning her was to be known by him”.105

So you knew I was scrubbing floors with a cloth with out gloves, that I slept in a room more like a cell on a narrow bed about four inches off the floor, that I went hungry most of the time, I never saw milk or juice all the time I was there.106

Now I am taking vitamins to raise my “D” so I can gain some weight. The night this gentleman found me I was headed to a river to throw my self in rather than be with a bunch of dog drunk bikers. And you were told all of this? Shame on you Uncle, you have taken very good care of me.107

Phillip went to find the sales man so he would know what to ship and where, it didn’t look as if George was going to be in charge very much longer. She wanted the jewelry boxes in shopping bags so she could take them home with her.108

When they went back out side the snow was still falling, every thing was covered. Phillip called the airport again; this time he got bad news, no planes out until the next day. Phillip knew a few places where there would still be rooms or suits even a condo, what ever they could find. The Regency had a suit open on the twelfth floor. Sounded good to both of them. Inside parking to.109

The sales man had the Jewelry boxes in shopping bags. Ask her if she wanted the dolls left at the house or delivered to her. She wanted them shipped to her. He had the address. Ten dolls he whispered yes not big dolls, collectables, Madam110

Alexander dolls. The essence of a little girl is in those dolls. Caroline had bought one every year111

Cheyenne and Phillip were at a loss for what to do. After a big day like they had a long nap in the easy chair with the TV going would be the order of the day. But what about Cheyenne? No stores open today for buying clothes for Tony and Mira. They could use the scrubs the housekeepers wore. Phillip bet they did more than look for something to do. How could he keep Cheyenne with him and not touch her, last night he felt the vibrations when he put his arm around him. And she didn't take her hands away; she had kissed him at the hospital when the doctors told them how Cathy was. Did she share his feelings? She was so young, but he wasn't really old just forty, still able to carry his weight in anything he under took. He was respected in the town. A number of women had set to catch him but he didn't want to be caught, he wanted to be loved, and comfortable. He had to have trust and an open book to a wife to be happy in their life. No secrets, no oh he forgot to tell you. He didn't want to have to be on his good behavior all time. He lived a clean life, didn't drink or smoke, didn't drive a big car, or own race cars. He liked horses; maybe he needed to find out if Cheyenne liked horses. She had come down stairs with a novel she was reading. He asks her out right if she liked children, she told him yes, and she liked children. Would she want some of her own? That depended on what he was getting at. He said he was getting around to ask her to be his wife. He got up and went to her, she was crying. He was afraid he had hurt her feelings and asks her. No he hadn't hurt her feelings, he just removed the last thing that she had to worry about. If she didn't get anything from the Goldman Estate she could always teach. She could live with Pete and Nathan, throw their life in a whirl .She put her arms around him and kissed him with passion, the same vibrations she had felt before. She told him she loved him. He answered he loved her to distraction. She said she should go to a gyn doctor to check on having a baby. He said he would go with her. The evening news was on, the president had done something stupid again, had all the news people up set and trying to beat out the next man, she didn't know any thing about the state of the world, but this President took a bashing on the news every night. He was soon to be replaced. They both went up to take baths. When Cheyenne came out of her bathroom she wasn't surprised to find Phillip in her bed. He was wearing some kind of bright silk pajamas. She slipped her gown on over her head, no one had seen her naked since Aunt Caroline had given her last bath before she was killed. Phillip was a good bedmate; he gave her time to get used to having him in her bed before he jumped her bones. He expected her to be a virgin, and she was, she wouldn't give him time to play games with her, she wanted it over with. He made love to her gently and loving, her comfort became the most important thing in his life. She felt full filled, a woman, not a girl in a woman's body. She told him he was about to get pounced on if he didn't make a move soon. He laughed and kissed her some more. She was still too thin, but time would take care of that.. 112

Time seemed to fly between Thanksgiving and Christmas .The material in the right color was found. A dressmaker who would work by Cheyenne’s picture was also found. The dressmaker even went to the house to see the picture. She promised to have the dress ready by the 23rd. gowns for the other woman was their own choice. Kirk would wear a tux but the others would wear dark suits.113

They talked to Pete or Nathan every day, Pete had a professional decorator coming to do the house. Pete wanted big trees down stairs and small ones in each bedroom. Pine and cedar with red ribbon decked each window. Before they finished the yard looked like Christmas in the woods. Kirk flew out early enough to get the license and back home before Cathy even knew he was gone.114

Elizabeth was not dismissed by the court, the Judge was still furious such a thing could happen in his township. She was under a million dollars bound. Jewels had not yet been deported to Florida. Bond was the same as Elizabeth’s.115

Ken thought she might get off with a fee and community work for the next half of her life.116

Jewels father could not raise the money to bail Jewels out. He was also wanted in Mexico when the US was finished with him. The Mexican117

Government would not even consider that much money, on the no good that had a wife and a child in Spain. Add bigamy to the charges. Immunity was up for review, too many foreigners getting away with drug dealing.118

Shopping for winter clothes was another day in New York. Fleece lined suede coats. Knee high boots, heavy sweaters and fleece lined pants.119

Cheyenne bought a flannel nightgown like her grand ma once wore. Bags were packed and repacked in the flowing days. Packages and suitcases were sent the day before. Santa Clause would come after the wedding. The housekeeper brought her husband for free labor to help keep the fires going and the water on ice. No one drank alcohol; sparkling water and mulled cider would have to do.120

More snow fell that night, Christmas Eve morning had a new snow-white dress, every pine tree was bent low with the snow they were121

Carrying. Red birds and Blue J’s were at war over the feeding trays. Pete’s old cat Max was afraid of going out because of a mocking bird 122

Who seemed to want his fur for her nest? He slipped out the back door and kept close to the house, then run as fast as he could to get under the gate. The wild life put in a good winter performance. The twins were glued to the window, to see what was coming next. The cowboys were to have the twins after lunch.123

Barbara just gave up on knowing where they were every moment. The cowboys were also going to provide the music for the wedding and after. Even Old Allen would have his jug there to blow.124

Pete knew Nathan was taking Ken and Kirk125

To do some shooting. To make things go a little126

Smoother, Pete ask the girls to go with him on a slay ride to the village just over the hill.127

They were delighted. The slay was pulled by two matching Grays, they had red ribbon with bells. It was so lovely, much more that the Holidays in the Mountains, trying to hide from Pa. Hoping this year he would have Santa bring a real doll. She was always disappointed although Nathan did every thing he could to make her happy. He always hung garlands of cedar and bush with purple berries, some were orange. Nathan told her one or the other was poison, so she left them both away. It was hard for Cheyenne to remember what actually happened that night. He had told her to stay dressed with backpack at hand; they might have to leave in a hurry. When Pa was coming up the steps she heard what he said about selling her. He had threatened her so much she didn’t even get upset any more. Never before had Nathan been ready to actually leave. Natheniel would beat the fire out of him, or at least try. They had gone to New York to Mama’s brother, and her life had never been stationary since then. The girls had a good time in the village; it was made up like a Victorian village. It had shops and clothing stores, and jewelry, Indian made Jewelry. Cheyenne could not pass up a white leather dress with beads and bright things on the front; she also bought a locket for Maria and Myra. The white man made boots were just more than Cheyenne could pass up. They fit like a glove and the insoles we soft and washable. Pete ask her if she needed any help, she told him Phillip might, but she was doing fine. She had to buy something for Phillip. Then she saw the quilts, she had not seen a quilt made that way since long ago, a lifetime ago. Lone Star128

Was the pattern? She had it especially wrapped. Pete was having the gifts brought out to the house. 129

Cheyenne didn’t know Phillip liked Country Music. The TV was all they used even though there were at least three radios in the pent house. She would have to go through his CD’s130

To see whom he liked most, right then he was listening to Vince Gill sing Christmas songs.131

She listened to for a while until he did O Holy Night, the most beautiful voice singing her favorite song, she had tears. When Phillip turned he was startled to see her standing there with tears on her cheeks. He put his arms around her and told her they would make new memories to replace the old ones. This was his first Christmas also. Myra always cooked a special dinner, them the boys were off to some adventure, either in the lagoon behind the house or out on the sea, which frightened her half to death. Barabara had come around with a gift for Ken. He hadn’t had money to buy her anything, but he dove deep to find a special shell for her collection. They had gathered a load of small shells that morning, and then in the after noon some tourist offered to buy them all. One hundred dollars for the lot. They were wealthy boys going home with money in their pocket. Ken didn’t see his mother that Christmas or any other. She just disappeared. Kirt didn’t have any family either; it didn’t touch him, he had two blood brothers and a good keeper in Mr. Diamond, and Robert. Welfare finally gave up on putting him in the system. He was part of the Diamond family also. It was an extended family which worked for them.132

Back at the big house, Pete was putting packages under the tree in the game room. The children didn’t like it down there. In a few years it would be hard to keep them away from the guns and weapons on the wall. Nathan was a professional hunter; sometimes he took a few boys out into the woods to rough it for a few days, as punishment and a deterrent to going to jail.133

He hadn’t had to have one locked up since that program went into effect. Young boys now days didn’t like to rough it. They had to have the latest in telephone, and communication. When told that was their punishment, they had laughed; coming back they were much less jolly.134

The twins were napping; the lady’s were experimenting with perfumes and lipstick color. Cathy’s gown was magnificent, and on her even more so. She couldn’t wear it for a few hours yet, but she would leave the house Mrs. Kirk O’Malley. The men came in with tails of target shooting glory. Kirk had been a sharp shooter in Desert Storm. Phillip and Ken had been self taught Medics. While they went in Kirk covered them. They had brought out a hundred when their time was up. They had some close calls, and decided Lady Luck might not be on their shoulder for another four years.135

There had been no one to greet them, the big parades and speeches by the President and other States Men, viewed all over the world. But the old green chopper they came in on didn’t even get an after midnight mention. They were heroes in the books kept by some 136

Cross-eyed clerk who never even got his hands dirty. It bothered the guys; Mr. D was in the keys fishing. Robert and Myra were there to welcome them back, trying to keep Cathy from climbing a fence to get to her brothers.137

Dinner was over; the ladies had dressed for the ceremony. Cathy looked so beautiful in her fancy dress. She would be offered a fortune for the pattern. Cheyenne wore midnight blue with pearls and sparkles on the front. Cut low and fit the waist and hips before it made a circle. Phillip was in a faint138

If he hadn’t asked her to marry him he would do it before the night was over. Barbara wore, coral, a knock out with her dark skin and sun-streaked hair. They had some one to make pictures, and the Judge was on his way. The house and grounds were covered with twinkling lights. The cowboy band was playing softly in a room joining the living room. The children were half asleep with the nap and the amount of food they consumed. They told Barbara the cowboys had some fine punch in the bunkhouse. They got just a touch of it, Cowboy was afraid it would ruin supper for them, and then he would be in trouble. They didn’t want any one in trouble with Mom. Mom got mad every one run for cover.139

The lights were out. Nothing but candles burning. The cowboys started out with the first tune. The Judge was there on time, looked the marriage license over good and signed it. He asks if anyone there had anything to say about this marriage, if so come forward, or forever hold his peace. Mr. D. stepped up. He said” We all know each other here. Each one of us has undergone some misfortunes; except for my darling wife every thing is settled with us and with God. This boy came to me, at fourteen years of age, told me his mother was a falling down drunk, he could not be with her any longer, if he had to run away. I ask him if he wanted to be part of my family, he responded he would be honored to be a member of my family; he would always make me proud.140

And he has done that; he has so much compassion for others in trouble, I have never been sorry I ask him into my family.141

Now he will officially be my son, and I could not be anymore proud .Ken gave Kirk away, Barbara give Cathy away. The twins were on their toes. Ready to give over the rings. The Judge spoke a short message on being sure of the mate you pick. Then he signaled the band to break out Here Comes The Bride, he joined their hands after placing a ring in each hand, and pronounced them Man and Wife. And presented Mr. And Mrs. Kirk O’Malley. It was a joyful occasion, and a beautiful one.142

When ask about their wedding date, Phillip let Cheyenne field that one. She said New Years Day 6pm in the Ball Room of the Diamond Grand. That suited Phillip the sooner the better for every one. Cathy was in her element, with friend and family as it should be. They had some dancing and toasting with mulled wine, then some present opening. The twins had been so good.143

They should get a treat that night.144

Next day they were homeward bound. The newly married had gone to the cabin for the night. Had no honeymoon plans yet. Just wanted to sit at home and be together.145

Phillip and Cheyenne were quiet, they were tired. Cheyenne had so much on her mind; she didn’t know where to start. Open wedding, no cards or invitations, hotel cater the food. She would decide on decoration but she liked the baby blue and silver. She had to find a wedding dress. Did they come in a size 2? She doubted it; maybe they could find one in the attic at the Diamond house. She would look before she did anything else. What kind of food? What did they usually serve? OK with that. It would be impossible to use the no alcohol rule. Every one was grown and on their own word of honor. There was so many if’. So many things could go wrong. What if Pa did survive the fire, he would see Nathan Winslow on TV and pictures of the newspaper. Surely if that had happened some one would have looked into where his children and his truck loaded with money had gone. But he didn’t know, no one did except Grandma. She had died while living there with them. Could she have written in the Bible? But it burned with everything else. No way Pa could have escaped the fire to get out alive. Only God knew how he died. Maybe he wasn’t hurt much and just left out. The good truck was gone with all his money under the seat. But he was dead. Nathan swore he was dead. She wished she had seen him dead, then she could rest assured he would never hurt her again. She had a nightmare that night, Pa was looking for her, she awakened drenched with sweat, and screaming her lungs out. Phillip had come running into the room with a gun out. He held her until she got quiet. In the gold rocking chair in the corner of Cathy’s room. Would she have to move now that Cathy was found? No of course not. They had gone to the house, Mr.D had his own rooms. He wouldn’t be coming and going anymore. No one was going to bother her. She would be extra careful of people coming around. Her feet hurt from having on shoes for a day and night. Phillip got her Indian boots and slipped them on her tiny feet. She liked them so much. Presents were under the tree down stares. She had forgotten it was time to open them.146

So many times in her childhood she had cried at Christmas because there were no presents under the tree. Nathan had slipped and made something for her. A writing slate with chock to erase. She could make words and figures also. Then all hell broke lose, to frighten her then and for the rest of her life.147

Myra and Maria decorated the house while they were gone. Cheyenne tried to get her to take extra pay for doing domestic work. But both flat refused. They said it had been so dark and gloomy there with the adventures gone they could hardly stand it.148

The first day of the year dawned clear and bright, the wind had even settled down. The sea looked like a mirror. Cheyenne could not believe her luck, no rain. The ballroom was ready, fire and safety inspected and passed.149

Cheyenne had some of her winter stuff put away but thoughts of New York made her hold back of putting things away. They might even make a second trip to Colorado.150

She had enough closet space to put a car away. She hadn’t bought anything for Phillip except in the Mountains, what did he really want? She could call New York for money to be transferred to an account for her. In fact she had an account, which she had never used. First she called Ken and Kirk to get suggestions, they drew blanks. A car, what kind of car had he always wanted.151

She called a local Car dealership to check on prices. A BMW yes that was what she wanted. Jet black with every thing on it. She didn’t know about cars except that is one she wanted. She wanted it tomorrow; the money was deposited in her account. She would be by to see it tomorrow, in the mean time a picture of it would help her out. The picture was carried by hand to her. She wrapped it with a big bow on the top. One more day until she was going to be a wife. One more night to feel sinful while she made love with Phillip. She so wanted to make him happy. Cathy had done well, no episodes of withdrawal. Kirk was so happy he could not be still unless he was holding her. He hadn’t told her she could never have a child. She hadn’t mentioned it so he didn’t know if she had been told. Best thing to do was go by the hospital and have some one look in her chart. He was remembered and respected for what he was there. A nurse looked and found an entry that said the patient took the news well. Not even her Father or Brother was to know she could not give Kirk a child.152

He had to tell Phillip, he just had to.153

First day of a new year, sunny and bright, no clouds in the sky. A wedding day for Phillip and Cheyenne. Cheyenne went through her usual morning, called a cab to take her to the Car dealership. The car was in the show room. The cab driver asks her if he needed to wait she told him thank you no.154

She went in the show room right to the car. A Salesman was waiting for her” Good morning may I help you” Cheyenne said yes you can get a bill of sale for the Black BMW, she was taking it home. He looked at her like she was demented, little girl like her with a car like that, he didn’t think so. She told him she didn’t have time to waste. He brought out an older man asking if she was the one he talked to yesterday about the car.155

She told him yes she was Cheyenne Brayer. She wanted a bill of sale and some one to drive her back to the Diamond Grand. He went behind the counter and started making out copies. She interrupted him” sir I am writing a check for the car, do I have to wait for all the paper work I am getting married at six o ‘clock tonight. He wrote the number of her bank and called praying they were even open. And they were, the bank manager OK the transferor of the money by personal check. Cheyenne thanked him for his help, took to sets of keys and joined a young man already in the car to take her home, she ask how would he get back, he said by cab. That was all right, she gave him some cash for taking care of her.156

Hiding the car wasn’t easy, Robert had to help her, but they got it done. He had a two-car garage to use later.157

Cheyenne dressed herself; she had gone into the attic of the house looking for gowns and found Phillip’s Mother’s wedding dress. The cleaners had made it look brand new. It fit like it was made for her. No one but Mr.D knew she had it. She wore the cameo necklace she got from Pete, it was very old. She had a garter from Cathy. A bracelet from Barbara. Phillip was about to storm the doors if she didn’t come on out. He was dressed in the tux and white tie. He had the rings she had his. The music brought them out, the brides maids first, then Cheyenne.158

The dress had a short veil. Nothing she might step on. The minister asks them to hold hands. Phillip was shaking. He started the ceremony much as in Cathy’s wedding he told them they had a long road before them, many stumbling blocks. Patience they would need, and advice of their elders. He ask if anyone had any thing to say, it remained quiet. He read the ceremony to them, had them exchange rings, groom kiss the bride.159

Introducing Mr. and Mrs. Phillip Diamond for the first time. White doves were turned loose in the room, Mr.D went to a window, said it was snowing flakes as big as duck feathers.160

No one noticed the man across the street, raged overalls and a KY ball cap.161

17644, 72 pages162

Prologue. Cheyenne got all of George’s estate, he had left it in Sid’s name, and Goldman Enterprises belonged to Nathan and Cheyenne. It would take months for the court to untangle the web of secret trust’s George had made. In the mean time Cheyenne would get an allowance and so would Nathan if he wanted it. George had died the day after Cheyenne’s wedding. He never made peace with her, or even tells the truth.163

Cheyenne was better off having seen her Father. She could avoid him, or have him jailed for stocking. She had to tell Phillip and Nathan she had seen him in New York. Cheyenne was correct to tell Nathan so he could make some safety plans. Pete said if he came there he would just shoot him and that would be over with. They encouraged Cheyenne to learn to shoot a hand gun and get a permit to have it because her safety was in jeopardy. The end.