No Direction Home (Sweet Home Colorado)

by Jude Willhoff

  The bear was only a few feet away. Two more steps and he’d be on top of her. Grace dove behind a boulder and clung to it when the shot rang out. The bear didn’t flinch. He jerked his head and growled. Seth fired two more times. The beast gave one last scream of pain and pitched toward Grace, swinging his paws as he came down on top of her, pushing her against the rocks.

  Imagining the damage those claws could do, Seth shouted, “We have to get up there.” He turned to the others. “Come on, the weight of the bear could smother her.” Fear clutched at his heart as he rushed up the rocks, refusing to lose her this way. “Hurry, men!"

  Together, the men pushed the bear away from Grace. Her limp body lay between the rocks. Seth’s heart nearly stopped as he checked her strong pulse. There were no claw marks. Thank God. She must’ve hit her head. He gathered her in his arms and carried her down the steep incline to the base of the cliff. Joey and Jamie rode up on Shorty’s horse.

  “Is she okay?” Jamie asked with fear in her eyes. “She saved us.”

  “Yes, I think it only knocked the wind out of her. With the boulder taking most of the weight of the bear, she must’ve hit her head when the animal fell on her. We need to get her to a doctor.”

  Grace squirmed in his arms and pushed against his chest. “Get off me.” “Calm down. It’s me, not the bear.” Relieved she was able to fight back, he let her down to lean against him. “Are you hurt?”

  Standing a little wobbly, she brushed herself off, staring up the cliff at the beast. “No. Is it dead?”

  “Yes.”

  “Good.” She glanced at the kids on the horse. “Thank goodness, you’re okay.” Uncontrollable tears streamed down her face when she rushed over to them.

  Seth stood and watched her, waiting for the delayed reaction...feeling pretty much the same way she did. He knew by the way she stumbled that she was in a lot of pain from the activity. Thank you, God, for taking care of the children and this stubborn woman you’ve brought into my life.

  He moved over to them and put his arm around Grace. “Kids, let’s get back to the ranch so you can get checked out by Doc Kruger.” Grace smiled at him through her tears as Seth held her in his arms for a moment, then helped her onto his horse. He climbed up behind her and wrapped his arms firmly around her waist and whispered in her ear, “Let’s go home.”

  ***

  Riding onto the Cactus Rose Ranch, Grace was amazed at how many vehicles were parked in the driveway and around the barn. All these people had come to help search for the children. What a wonderful caring community. Glad to be home, she realized there were lots of good things about being in your hometown. People cared and pitched in when a crisis happened.

  “Thank goodness you’re okay,” Cindy shouted as she ran to meet Grace in the barnyard. “Sheriff Thompson called and told us what happened.”

  Yeah, she was okay, but her back felt as if it were broken and other sore muscles screamed for mercy. She’d paid the price for her heroics, but she knew how to deal with the pain. The children came first. Grace acknowledged Cindy with a wan smile. “Yeah, there for awhile, it was mighty close.”

  Seth helped her off his horse and held her close, then he turned to the children following on the horse behind them. Warmed by Seth’s affection, Grace still couldn’t stop shivering, thinking about the bear chasing her. He had come to her rescue like a knight in shining armor. In a way, he was her knight, in other ways as well, rescuing her from her inner demons. He had taught her she could feel love again. She glanced across the yard, watching him help the children dismount. He was a caring father. Was she mistaken? Could she let herself believe he cared for her?

  “Come inside and let me look at you.” Cindy helped her up the porch steps. Several people Grace didn’t know stood around the porch talking quietly.

  “Don’t fuss. I’m okay. I only bumped my head when the bear fell on me.” Grace reached up and touched the knot on the side of her temple, wincing at the tender spot.

  “There are people from all over the county inside waiting to hear your story.” Cindy glanced around the room as they strode through the entryway. “They came to search for the kids, but want to know what happened. Do you feel up to it?”

  “Sure, that’s the least I can do with everyone coming to help us. Thanks to Seth, things turned out fine. He saved my life.”

  “I know. Come, sit down and I’ll get you some hot tea.”

  “That would be great.” Grace eased her sore body down into an overstuffed chair.

  An older cowboy stood in front of Grace, wearing a grin on his weather-beaten face. “Ma’am, I heard what you did. That was a mighty brave thing to do.” Others crowded around, wanting to listen to what she had to say.

  “Not really, I was scared to death. But when I saw the kids clinging to the top of a blue spruce and the bear ripping off the bark, climbing up after them, I knew I didn’t have much time.” She shuddered, thinking about what the bear could’ve done to the children. “I had to get the bear’s attention to get it away from the kids.” She glanced down at Jamie and Joey, sitting at her feet next to Seth—her beloved family. Her heart soared with joy at the sight of them.

  “Mom was awesome,” Jamie exclaimed. “She came out of nowhere just when the bear was coming up the tree to eat us.”

  Grace's heart sang with joy at being called Mom, then she frowned at the memory. “I tried to get a shot at the bear, but was afraid I’d hit the kids. I fired in the air a couple of times to get its attention.” She groaned, trying to sit in a more comfortable position. “That’s when things went bad. My horse panicked and I fell off and smashed my gun against a rock. The bear sensed my fear and came after me.”

  “Then Dad came.” Joey reached for Seth’s hand. “He shot the bear and saved Mom.” Grace’s heart swelled with pride as she listened to her family.

  “Well, it wasn’t quite as simple as that.” Seth grinned and pushed the brim of his Stetson back. “My wife was crawling up the ledge of a cliff hanging over a hundred foot drop down to the river. She had nowhere to go to escape. I knew I had to kill the bear.”

  Seth glanced toward Travis and the other ranch hands. “The boys made enough racket to raise the dead. Then that old bear turned and gave me his meanest look.” Grinning at the kids, Seth continued, “Grace was smart enough to duck down so I could get a good shot at him. I did. Straight through his black heart.” Thank goodness he was a good shot or she wouldn’t be sitting here. A vision of the bear’s claws coming toward her when she ducked behind the boulder caused her to shiver.

  He sighed. “That bear will make us a mighty fine rug. Think we’ll keep him around to remind us how lucky this family is.” He leaned down and kissed Grace on the cheek. “But right now, folks, I’m taking my family upstairs so Doc can give them the once-over. There’re plenty of sandwiches and coffee in the kitchen. Make yourselves at home.”

  Seth was right. Today they had been lucky. The fates were on their side. Grace sighed in relief. Thank you, God, for giving this family another chance.

  ***

  Feeling blissfully happy, fully alive, and wanting to tell Grace that Travis had asked her to go riding in the moonlight, Cindy tapped lightly on the bedroom door.

  “Come in.” Seth opened the door and let her in the sitting area. “Doc Kruger is still checking her out.”

  “How are the kids?” They looked okay, but you never knew. She cared about those little scamps.

  “Fine, except for a few scrapes and bruises, they were lucky.”

  The look in his eyes when he spoke of Grace and the children was tender. She’d been right. He cared, big time. “Yeah, you never expect something like that to happen. I wanted to see Grace a few minutes. Most of the people have left."

  “Thanks for being here for us. You’re a good friend.”

  She felt her face flush at his compliment. “Anytime. I care about all of you.”

  “I believe you.” He breathed lightly through partially closed lips, se
eming nervous to Cindy. “How about helping me surprise her?”

  “Surprise her? What do you mean?” What was Seth up to now? “With what?”

  “Can you keep a secret, if you know it’s something that will make her happy?”

  “I don’t ordinarily keep secrets from Grace, but if it’s a good thing, I could do it.” Amusement flickered in the eyes that met hers. “Fess up. Tell me.”

  His expression stilled and grew serious. “Okay, here goes. I bought the ranch next door and I’ve been building our own home out on the back forty. Plan to call it Rosewood.”

  The shock of discovery hit her full force. He really did love Grace. “Rosewood, that’s fabulous. Wow...so you’re building a new home. That explains why you’ve been so tired and distant.”

  Worry flashed in his blue eyes. “Tired and distant, is that what she thinks?”“Oops, I’ve said too much.” Cringing inwardly, Cindy knew Grace would be angry with her for telling Seth she was worried about him.

  With a puzzled expression, he sat down in a chair. “Is that what Grace thinks about me?”

  “Well, yeah, I guess since we’re sharing secrets I can tell you.” A twinge of guilt ate at her...but by telling Seth, maybe he and Grace could work things out. It was for Grace’s own good. “She thinks you don’t care for her because you don’t pay any attention to her when you’re alone.”

  “Hmmm...I was trying to give her space to sort things out. I know about the changes she’s been going through the past few months and I wanted to give her time to accept me.” He stroked his chin. “I thought by building her the house, she’d realize how much I care. I love her!”

  “Well, you don’t have to convince me. I’ve known it all along. You need to tell her.” At that moment, Cindy was extremely happy for Grace.

  “I will...in good time. The house is almost ready.” He ran a hand through his hair, glancing back at Cindy. “What I want you to do is to come out and get her to go riding with you. Show up at the new place.” The more he spoke, the more animated his voice became. “Travis can take you to the trail that leads there. I want it to be a complete surprise.” He grinned. “Knowing how much she enjoyed growing flowers in California, I had them add a greenhouse last month.”

  “She’s going to love it. I can’t wait.”

  “I’ll let you know when.” Seth glanced up as Grace came into the room.

  “Hey, what are you two whispering about?” Grace asked with a grin when she came across the room to stand beside them.

  “Nothing—Seth was telling me about how he’s going to have a bear skin rug made.” Cindy grabbed Grace’s hands. “Sweetie, how are you feeling?”

  “Like I said before, I’m okay, just a little sore. Doc says I’m fine. Are there still a lot of people downstairs?”

  “No, most everyone has left. Travis and I will clean up and then he’s taking me on a trail ride in the moonlight.” She glanced at Seth. “You should get some rest. Are the kids still up?”

  “No, they’ve gone to bed. The whole experience has worn them out. They’ll sleep like rocks tonight.” Seth winked at Cindy. “Thanks for taking care of everything.”

  “Not a problem.” Cindy gave Grace a hug and left. “I’ll call you tomorrow. Sleep tight.”

  “What was that about?”

  Seth noted the tired expression on her face and could tell she was in a great deal of pain by the way she was walking. “I was thanking her for the way she pitched in and took care of everyone. You’re tired. Why don’t you go take a hot bath and relax some of the soreness out of your bones? I’ll go downstairs and make sure everything is under control.”

  Grace stretched and yawned. “I think I’ll take you up on that. I'm exhausted.”

  He kissed her on the cheek and turned to go downstairs. Glancing back at her, he grinned. A home of her own would help her learn to love and accept him. There was hope for this marriage to work. She loves the children and from what Cindy had to say she feels something for me, too.

  Chapter Twenty-One

  Nana gasped softly as she and Grace drove down the long Cactus Rose Ranch driveway. It was impossible to steady her erratic pulse caused from her own excitement. The day had finally come. She was coming home. With a shiver of vivid recollection she remembered the night when Seth had taken her to the hospital. She’d thought she’d never see home again.

  “Is anything wrong?” Grace glanced at her and slowed the car to a stop.

  Nana could feel the moisture building in her eyes. “Nothing. I’m just happy to see the ranch.” The sight of her beloved log home nestled among the rocks and pines made Nana’s heart swell with pride. When it was her time she wanted her ashes scattered on the land like her many ancestors who lived there before her, but she was glad she had some time left to enjoy her wonderful grandchildren.

  “We’re thrilled you’re coming home. Seth had an emergency with some of the cattle out on the back forty or he’d be here, too. But, he’ll be home for your celebration dinner tonight.” She smiled. “By the way, I’m making your favorite things.”

  Nana enjoyed listening to Grace chatter while they drove to the family home. She knew where Seth was. He was putting the finishing touches on their new home.

  “Oh, yeah, Seth and the boys finished the addition to the bunkhouse. I think you’ll like what they’ve done to it.”

  “I’m sure I will. Seth brought pictures to the hospital to keep me updated. Looks like he did a fine job.” Unknown to Grace, he had also brought pictures of the new home he was building for his wife. Gracie Bell, you are one lucky lady. I can’t wait till he tells you about it. Nana smiled to herself, keeping the secret close to her heart.

  Jamie and Joey ran out on the porch to greet Nana holding a welcome home sign, happily jumping up and down. Ollie sat on the porch railing cleaning his paws, keeping an eye on the car. Nana hesitated, blinking with bafflement. “Where are Joey’s crutches? That boy is a wonder.”

  “He wanted to surprise you.”

  The kids ran up to Nana’s side of the car when Grace pulled into the circular driveway alongside the porch.

  Jamie opened the car door and held out her hand. “Nana, I made banana nut bread for you.”

  “Oh, honey, I can't wait.” The children looked like they had grown at least a foot. “Did you do it all by yourself?” Although she didn’t need it, Nana let the little girl assist her in getting out of the car.

  “Joey helped me. He lifted it out of the oven and cleaned up for me.”

  “I know how the boy cleans up.” Nana’s gentle laugh rippled through the air as she glanced at Joey. “Look at you...walking all by yourself. I’m proud of you.” Stopping, she hugged him close to her chest, kissing his cheek and put an arm around Jamie kissing the top of her head. “I’ve missed you both.”

  Grace followed them through the entryway like a mother hen looking after her chicks. “Don’t overdo, Nana. Sit here in your favorite chair.”

  Nana eased herself down in her recliner and Ollie jumped in her lap, expecting to be scratched. “Apparently, somebody else missed me, too.” Nana grinned at Ollie, rubbed him under the chin and listened to his welcome home purr.

  “He really did miss you.” Jamie reached over and patted Ollie’s head. “Sometimes it looked like he had tears in his eyes.”

  Nana leaned back in her recliner resting her eyes, happy to be home.

  “Kids, why don’t you go play outside for a while and let Nana rest,” Grace suggested and hung their coats on the rack.

  “Okay, we’ll take Pokey an apple.” Joey and Jamie ran outside, laughing as they went out the door.

  “They seem happy.” Nana glanced at Grace. “They didn’t have to leave. I’m not tired.” Pushing her recliner back, she stared around the room at her favorite things. Being home, made her feel much better.

  “They can wear a person out. I don’t want you to have a relapse the first day you’re home.” Grace grinned. “Now, that sounds like something you’d say
.”

  “Yes, we’re going to have to do something about you. Dr. Kruger said I’m fine, just have to slow down a bit. Don’t you get too bossy with me. I’m still your Nana.”

  “Yes, I’m fully aware of that." Grace busied herself in the open kitchen. "I'll fix us some tea."

  “Tell me, how are things going with you and Seth?” Nana asked, wanting to pull the pieces together. How did Grace really feel? Was she happy? “We never were able to talk much about your marriage.”

  Two deep lines of worry appeared between Grace's eyes as she tried to sidestep the question. “His parents are coming next week to meet all of us and see Jamie and Joey. We’re excited about the visit.”

  Something was bothering Grace, something she wasn’t saying. “They’re staying here, aren’t they?”

  “Well, no, they insisted on staying at the hotel. His mother said she wouldn’t dream of putting you out with you just getting home from the hospital.” Grace pushed a strand of hair behind her ear. “I think it’s for the best this time.”

  Nana realized, without Grace saying a word, her granddaughter didn’t have a clue to how much Seth cared for her. “Next time they can stay here. We have plenty of room. This is Seth’s home.”

  Grace flinched. “Yes, I don’t think he has a problem with that. He and the kids love it here.”

  She’d be glad when Grace knew how much Seth loved her. Only a week to go and to think the man added a greenhouse just because he knew how much Grace missed her flowers in California. He was one of a kind...lucky woman.

  ***

  Seth stood on the top balcony, staring out at the unobstructed view of the valley below. The huge multilevel log home with a view from every window was all he’d hoped it would be and more. Lord, please let the woman love me and our new home. When I ask her to marry me this time—let her say yes for real.

  The idea had come to him during a dream. He had cheated Grace out of a real wedding so he was determined to make it up to her. Nana had agreed his plan was a good one.