The boy scrunched his face. “I heard that on the street. I’m not sure what to believe other than I always figured he had a first name somewhere. I’m glad he finally owned up to it. As for the big change. I’ll see for myself.”
Sammy rushed ahead of her and opened the door.
Addie walked in, and Sammy took her to a table near the back. “I think Charlie will like it back here. He likes his back to the wall. That’s always important to him.”
“I see. You’re a good friend to him, aren’t you?”
“Yes, ma’am.” Sammy scooted the chair in for her and sat beside her. “He should be here any minute.”
And he was. Charles grabbed the chair and threw his hat on the empty one. “Hope I’m not too late.”
Addie grinned at him. “Did something of interest catch your eye?” She said it jokingly as she’d noticed before how Charlie watched the women as they walked by the clinic.
“Yes, as a matter of fact, I did. The sheriff was marching a handcuffed Dahlia to jail. He must think she’s responsible for shooting Fallon.” He waved at the waiter.
“That’s shocking. Dahlia has come to visit him several times. I would never believe she was responsible.” She stopped as she remembered the other day. “Although, someone had come in the clinic and dropped a pillow in Fallon’s room. There were dirt smudges on the cover. So, it had to be someone with dirty hands. That hardly fits Dahlia’s description.”
Sammy watched them, soaking up the information.
Charles pointed a finger at him. “Can I trust you to keep quiet about anything you might hear?”
Sammy nodded. “I won’t tell a soul, and I can listen on the street. I’m little, and people don’t pay me any mind. You’d think I was invisible. But it pays off because I hear things that might help others. Usually, for a dollar, but for you two, I won’t charge anything.”
“I’ll take care of you, Sammy. I don’t want you to hang around the rough crowd anymore. In fact, I’m thinking that I can afford the suite at the hotel, and you can stay in the extra room.”
The boy stared at him. “I don’t know. I’m not used to sleeping inside. I don’t have any money.”
Charles held a hand up. “Don’t worry about money. I have plenty, and I plan to become a lawyer with Mr. Higgins's help. I could use a messenger boy. So, you’d be working for me. If you want the job?”
A huge smile broke out on Sammy’s face. “Are you sure?”
“Positive. That way you can learn some schooling too. I’ll need my helper to be educated.”
“I’ve never been to school.”
Addie took Sammy’s hand. “I can help you catch up. You’re such a bright boy, I believe you’ll be the smartest in class in no time.”
The food came, and the boy dug into his bowl of chili as if he’d not eaten in a week. Addie buttered him a roll and set it beside him. “When you finish that one, I’ll butter you another. And if you want more milk, you ask for it.”
“Yes, ma’am.”
Addie looked across the table at Charles. “A lawyer. I think that’s wonderful.”
“Higgins said he’d help me learn what I needed to. Even gave me my first assignment. So, I won’t be able to walk you to the boarding house after work.”
Sammy looked up and grinned. “That can be my job. I can walk Miss Addie home.”
“All right. You do that, Sam, but I’d like you to ride Sinbad first.”
Sammy grinned. “I have to say. I feel like I gone and went to heaven. I need to pinch myself.”
Charles laughed. “Glad to have you aboard, Sam. Now, if you’ll walk Nurse Addie back to the clinic, and then ride Sinbad for me, you can meet me at the hotel, and we’ll get your room situated for you.”
“Yes, sir.” Sam jumped out of his chair and helped Addie with hers.
She looked at Charles. “You’re full of surprises.”
Charles nodded and took her hand and held it gently. “I was thinking of taking you on a picnic this Saturday, and we can watch the moon rise.”
She smiled. “Yes, I’d love to go with you.”
“I’ll pick you up at Gretchen’s. That’s this Saturday at seven.” He smiled at her. “In case you were worried, I’ll be taking Sam with us as a chaperone.”
Addie laughed, but she did feel better. How could she have agreed so quickly to go with him at night alone? “I can’t wait. Thank you.” Addie felt as if she were walking on water. Of course, she knew that Charles had a reputation as a scoundrel, but that he wanted to be a lawyer was promising.
She let Sammy walk her back to the clinic and entered, saying goodbye to Sam as he ran to the stables to get Sinbad.
Doc was sleeping, so she went in to check on Fallon. He was sitting up and dressed.
He looked up at her. “I think I’m well enough to leave the clinic.”
“Has Doc checked you out?” She was nervous about him leaving. He really hadn’t been up and around enough to make sure there were no problems. Not to mention, someone had come in to do him harm.
He shook his head. “I’m ready. I know he’ll say I’m not.”
“Fallon, Peter, the other day, I know someone came in here, and I think they were going to kill you.” She grabbed the pillow on the chair. “See, dirty fingerprints. I heard a noise and came in, but I didn’t see anything. Then I found this pillow by your bed as if someone had dropped it.”
She held up her hands. “You know me and Doc wouldn’t have dirty hands.”
He took the pillow from her. “That’s not much proof someone was going to kill me.”
“The bullet we took out of your head is.” She sat down in the chair by his bed. “Please stay here at least until you get your strength back.”
He looked at her and smiled. “If you’re here, I might just be inclined to do that. But I do need to get up and get my strength back. I’m too weak right now, and I don’t like how it makes me feel.”
“I can help you regain your strength, but I don’t think you should be alone. Are you planning on going back to the saloon?”
He shook his head and then put a hand to his forehead. “Maybe you’re right. My head is still sore. As far as where I’ll stay and what I’ll do, I’m not entirely sure. I mostly know what I won’t do. I won’t go back to the saloon, and I won’t be gambling.”
Addie was relieved to hear that. She looked around. “Doc did get you lunch, didn’t he?”
“Yes, he did. I think he’s worn out. He’s not young like he used to be. I’m glad you’re here.”
“I don’t know how long I will be. I know Charles’ father paid for me to come and take care of you because his son would be up for murder if you died. Now that you’re better, I’m not sure what my future holds.”
“The town needs you. I hear how you treat the patients and take a load off Doc. You should stay.” He smiled. “I want you to stay.”
Her face warmed. “Thank you for that. I do like the town and the people.”
“I hope I’m included in that group.”
Addie looked him straight in the eye. “You are, and I have to say that I am happy that you are doing so well.”
“All thanks to you. Doc said the way you worked with my arms and legs kept me from having more problems when I came to.” His blue eyes stayed on her face.
“I’ll be praying for you, Peter. God must have a plan for you to bring you back in such a dramatic way. I can’t wait to see what it is.”
He pulled the Bible from the table by his bed. “Me either. God hasn’t let me know what I’m to do, but I know I’m not to gamble or visit the saloons anymore.”
“That’s a good start. I’m sure the Lord will reveal it at the right time. Shall we read the Bible together?” She scooted her chair close to the bed. “You can read a chapter and then I will.”
He nodded. “I thought I’d start with the twenty-third Psalm. It gives me peace to think about the words.”
“One of my favorites.” Addie leaned over an
d began reading. She was aware of him. The man. More than she thought she should be when reading the Bible. But she continued. Content to be near him. Not afraid of a gambler, but at peace with a fellow believer.
When she first saw Fallon and heard about him, she was afraid of him. And when he first awoke, she wasn’t sure what to make of him. But now, when he read the Bible in his deep voice, her heart leaped at the words.
And when she looked at him. She had to admit, she was drawn to him in a way that she’d never been by any other man.
Chapter 13
Once Charles got Sam settled in his room, he’d spent the day and night reading the law book. He took notes and felt he was prepared to offer a case for himself. The first thing he was doing this morning was checking in with the lawyer.
Charles knocked on Higgins’ door and entered.
“Oh, Charles. Come on in. I’m going out to your father’s today. I was hoping you’d come with me.”
“I’d like that. I read most of the night and took notes. I think I have somewhat of a case you can start with to represent me.”
“Good, good. That’s what I wanted to hear. I also heard that you’ve taken in Sammy Taylor. What’s the story on that?”
Charles shrugged. “The kid has no one. I thought I could help him and keep him from going down the wrong path. He’s a good kid.”
Higgins nodded. “I see. Well, watch him. Kids like that have a way of being raised in trouble. He’s likely to steal you blind.”
The lawyer’s words stung, but then Charles figured many had said the same about him. Maybe he and Sam could prove them wrong. “I’ll watch him.” He turned to the window and stared at the jail. “I saw the sheriff bring in Dahlia in handcuffs. Do you know anything about that?”
“Nothing more than what you do. After we see to your father, we’ll stop in at the jail and see what Sheriff Fitzgerald has to say. Perhaps, we’ll have a client to defend.”
“Dahlia?”
“Sure, why not? Every citizen of the United States should have counsel. That’s our job, boy.” Higgins grinned and put his hands on his suspenders.
“I guess so. I don’t think Dahlia’s guilty of shooting Fallon.”
Higgins frowned. “Her guilt very well might set you free from the whole mess, and that is my job and what your father pays me to do.”
“I won’t be set free if the wrong person is accused and found guilty.”
“Perhaps not, but the law can be a slippery mistress. At times, you have to settle for less to get more. Remember that. Your client pays the bills.”
Charles looked at him. “Doesn’t the truth need to come out?”
“Yes, we aim for the truth, but most of the time, we fall short and settle for sounds reasonable.” Higgins drummed his fingers on the desk. “Well, let's get started for your ranch. We can take my buggy, or you can ride your horse if you like.”
“I think I’d like to let Sinbad stretch his legs.”
“All right then. If you would send the buggy to me after you get your horse saddled.” Higgins sat down and pulled out his thick briefcase. “I’ll be ready by the time you return.”
Charles stopped by the school to make sure Sam was settled in. The boy waved to him and looked proud in his new clothes and with his slate and books. The teacher came to the door and waved him over.
“Charles Walker, Sam told me you are no relation to him. I think it would be wise if you talk to Mr. Higgins and see about adopting the boy. It would settle issues that might come up. There are some fussy parents on the school board, and they are likely to make a fuss that Sam has no one to pay for his schooling.”
“Oh, I hadn’t thought of that. You just tell me what I owe, and I’ll pay for it.”
“It’s not that easy. It gets the town council involved. Talk to Higgins about adopting Sam if you are serious about helping the boy. Otherwise, there are parents here who will demand that Sam be sent to the orphanage, and if you have any feelings for the boy, you don’t want that to happen.”
“Thanks, Miss Gray. I’ll talk to Higgins today.” Charles waved at Sam and left him at the school, wondering why such simple things had to get tangled in complications.
Finally, Charles had Sinbad saddled and rode to Higgins’ office, where the buggy was already waiting for the big man. Charles grinned. It was a good thing he’d chosen to ride. That buggy didn’t look big enough for the two of them.
It was a two-hour ride to the ranch. Sinbad knew it well and gave Charles time to think about Sam. Adoption. He hadn’t figured on that, but then why wouldn’t he? If he really wanted to help the boy, he ought to put his money where his mouth was as his father would say. If you mean it, do it.
His father was big on sayings, but he lived by most of them too. Charles wasn’t excited about seeing his father but prayed his father would like the decision to become a lawyer. Charles just wasn't cut out to be a rancher.
Finally, he turned down the road to the ranch. Charles was more than ready to convince his father about his life’s direction. Of course, if his father cut off his funds, he’d not have the money to learn the law or to take care of Sam.
Charles sent up a prayer that the Lord would make a way for him to do everything he wanted. Mostly to take care of Sam. Somehow, that boy had warmed up Charles’ heart. Maybe Fallon’s conversion had been catching.
He grinned and dismounted in front of the house he’d grown up in. Charles waited for Higgins, and then together they walked up the porch.
Higgins knocked while Charles stood at his side. For once, feeling as if he were visiting and didn’t belong. It was an odd feeling.
The door opened, and Dean smiled. “Little brother, I was wondering if you were in jail or not. I see you brought Lawyer Higgins. He’s a good man if he can keep you out of trouble. Come on in.”
Charles grinned at his brother. They’d had their differences but generally got along.
Father walked into the room and looked him straight in the eye. “Charles, I hope you’re bringing me good news. I’ve had to fight rustlers on the west pasture and water rights for the creek that goes to the Blue River. I’m not in any mood for bad news.”
Mr. Higgins shook Father’s hand. “I think you’ll be pleased with the news we bring. Why don’t you tell him, Charles?”
“Father, Dean, I’ve decided I’d like to be a lawyer. Mr. Higgins has agreed to teach me the law.”
Father stepped back. “You’d give up the ranch?”
“Dean has always been the one to run things.” Charles went to his father and held out his hand. “I hope it pleases you.”
Father shook his hand. “If it keeps you out of trouble, I’m pleased.” He looked at Higgins. “You’re all right with this?”
“Yes, sir. Charles came to me, and I believe he is serious. He’s got a quick mind and will make a good lawyer.”
Father looked proudly at him. “If he can keep on this side of the law. What about the Fallon mess?”
Charles nodded. He deserved his father’s mistrust. “Fallon came out of the coma. He doesn’t remember anything, but we found out he’d been shot with a derringer. I saw the sheriff arrest Dahlia.”
“So, you’re out of trouble where Fallon is concerned?”
Charles looked at Higgins. “I think so. I’m reading the law books that pertain to the case and making my own case with Mr. Higgins's help.”
“Good. I must say this is a surprise to me. I had wanted both my boys to run the ranch, but maybe this is better. I can pay your fees to learn the law. Of course, it will come out of what is left of your inheritance.”
“I understand. There is one other thing. I’m thinking of adopting a street kid in town. Sam Taylor. He’s all of ten and smart as a whip. I talked to the teacher today, and she suggested it would be best for him if I made him my son.”
Father darted a worried glance to Higgins. “You know about that?”
“No, I didn’t. I would advise against it. If something should ha
ppen to you, Sam would have access to the inheritance of the ranch.”
Father nodded. “Just what I was thinking. I don’t want to have Dean lose out because you’re taking in a wild kid.”
Charles went to the fireplace and turned to face his father. “There must be a way. If I was married and had children—”
“That would be different. That would be my blood, and I’d want them to have something.” Father shook his head. “If you want my help getting your law degree, I won’t allow you to adopt the boy. Otherwise, I’ll pay your room and board and whatever fees Higgins requires.”
Charles looked at Higgins. “Is there any way around it?”
Higgins looked at them both. “I’ll have to look into it. Charles could give up his rights, but the boy, if adopted, could still sue for his.”
Charles frowned. “I won’t do anything to jeopardize your ranch. That much I can assure you. Dean, you deserve to inherit all of it. I won’t lay claim to any part.”
Father’s stern face softened. “I am glad you want to do something with your life other than getting into trouble. I hope you do well. Higgins, let me know what I owe you for the legal retainer and also for the nurse I hired. If Fallon is well, I guess she can go. As for the adoption, I’m against it.”
Charles shook his head. “She’s been good for the town. If Doc can’t afford her, you could help the town out by paying her keep.”
Dean grinned. “I heard she was pretty.”
Charles nodded. “She is. I have some interest in her. I know she’s helped the town out.”
“I’ll consider it at least for another month. Higgins, if you can tell Doc, I’ll pay for another month.”
“Yes, I will.”
Father smiled. “How about dinner? The cook made steaks and all the trimmings. I know that’s your favorite Higgins, and I’d like to have dinner with my son. I’ve missed you, Charles. I know we don’t see eye to eye on a lot of things. But you’re my son, and that will never change.”
“Thanks, Father. I’d like to stay.”
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