The Ranch... Open..

[Luna-fey]

Anna

"Any wine down in that root cellar?" Anna asked, grinning.

Anna emerged, triumphant, with an inexpensive bottle of White Zinfandel.

"For the salad dressing, of course," she chuckled. "Mmm...those smell really good, Penny," she added, referring to the biscuits.

It was one of the few things that she could make, a zesty White Zinfandel vinaigrette dressing. Working in the kitchen alongside the other women made Anna think of the "Stone Soup" story she'd loved as a child. The story showed that when everyone contributed you could come up with a marvellous concoction.

The mood had definitely lightened and the ladies seemed more like old friends than the virtual strangers that they were to one another.

 

[shadowoftheheart]

"Thank you, thank you!"

The first tray of biscuits were indeed done, and she pulled them out to cool, while the second went in.

"Dressing? With real wine? Wow. Sounds good."

Penny had actally never felt better. This was fun and productive. She knew it might lose something if she did it too often ... it would become work ... but maybe she could see if she could stay for a while. Father didn't need her back anytime soon ....

 

[bullshot]

George

As George rode into the yard there was no sign of the girls so he assumed they’d gone straight into the ranch building. He could see the other hand trying to lead Katherin’s horse and Damion towards the stables. Damion didn't appear to like being so close to Kat's horse.

“Here I’ll take him,” George told the hand as he rode over. As soon as George had the reins Damion settled down.

“What do we call you, I didn’t catch your name?” George asked the hand.

As they were talking a woman rode into the yard, she looked quite slender with long brown hair wearing a baggy shirt and jeans.

“Howdy can we help you?” he asked. “I’m George the foreman here,” he added. “The owner is in the house somewhere she’ll probably be out shortly if we can’t help,” he told her.

 

[LadyFairy]

Katherin had enjoyed her race with Samantha, but had rained in slowing to a stop in surprise at seeing a red sports car, and an SUV in the drive. Sam passing her buy as she headed at a slower pace twords the stables.

Seeing Carolyn step out on the porch to speak with the the women they all seemed to greet each other easily and Carolyn headed straight to the kitchen to make something to drink.

Kat watched as she road into the yard as Carolyn left something to drink for the ferrier, and went back inside to start on the evening meal. Kat dismounted and Gave the regns over to Dave as he came out of the stables taking first Sam's Dameion and then Kat's Butter Cup..

Kat had to smile tho as she and Sam headed into the house so they could meet her guests. Watching Samantha walk was an amusing sight. It had been 3yrs sence she sat saddle, and Katherin couldnt help the slow smile that spread over her face as she tryed really hard not to laugh.

Hearing hoof beats behind her she turned seeing George ride into the yard and offer to help the other man, and Kat felt slightly ashamed of herself she rarely let anyone take over for her. It was her responsability to make sure everything was taken care of, but so much had happened, and was still happening in the last few hours that Kat was truly rattled.

Shaking her head she started walking back out to help George, and the other man with the horses when she saw another gal ride up. Katherin smiled as George greeted her and was even more glad that she had made George the forman.

Glancing up at George her eyes meeting his she said. Thank you...I am here George... I came ta help ya with the horses, so that you all could eat with us. If you'll go ahead i'll speak with her and be along to help you in a few moments.

Looking up at the woman on the horse she said. Hello my name is Katherin Renolds.. How can i help you?

 

[Hanalia]

Breanne

"Yes, you could. I'm Breanne. My father owns the Logan farm a few miles west of here. I heard you could use some help and I could use a place to stay. Though there seems to be enough help now..."

Breanne thought there was only one woman living here alone but that apparently had changed. Hopefully there was still room left in the bunkhouse. She was more than willing to do whatever work was needed to pay for board.

 

[bullshot]

George

As George followed Dave towards the stables Samantha caught up with him.

"Here let me help you with him George, I know you can handle him on your own but Kat seems to be busy. And tho my ass hurts a bit from disuse of being in a saddle, I can still help walk and brush him."

She didn't make any attempt to take Damion's reins but just walked into the stables alongside him.

George unsaddled both horses before getting the brushes to give them both a good rub down. Damion's ears perked forward when he saw George with the brush.

Smiling Sam says, "Your going to spoil him with all your sweet whisperings." Tossing a wink at George,

George smiled at this he liked both girls and hoped they'd get the ranch back on its feet together. Katherin appeared to be interested in Mr O'Connor and he was quite happy to become good friends with Sam. Although he normally steered clear of the owners family he was willing to make an exception with Sam.

"Have you had chance to pick yourself a good horse?" George asked Dave. Because he could see that Dave had finished Katherin's horse.

 

[LadyChance]

Sam

Watching Kat walk over to the woman on the horse, I could tell she was feeling slightly overwelmed with all that happened. I couldn't honestly blame her and it made me worry a bit over what I still had to tell her. Turning and catching up with George, seeing him handle Damion with an easy ease that only I had ever had with the rebellious horse. I knew how hard it was to handle him, but George made it look extremely easy.

"Here let me help you with him George, I know you can handle him on your own but Kat seems to be busy. And tho my ass hurts a bit from disuse of being in a saddle, I can still help walk and brush him."

I didn't make a move to take the reins but walked with George while he cooled the stallion off. Chatting comfortably with him, and at the same time watching Kat talk to the woman on the horse. I hadn't thought about it much but looking at Kat I see how much she has changed, the differences quiet and yet to me noticable. She must have grown a few inches taller since the last time I had seen her, and her hair was longer. The main thing I noticed was the slightly shy girl I remembered had now become more confident in handling people. Between Kat and I she had always come up with the ideas for things, I had always figured out how to get them done.

I just hoped that her and I would be that way again, I loved the ranch and I wanted to stay here at home. If I had added things up right and did the right things, I figured her and I could pull off making the ranch a big success. And with the right help, we could make it even better. With these thoughts I look once more to George, he was going to be a good addition. Seeing Damion's ears perk forward towards the man in question. Smiling, "Your going to spoil him with all your sweet whisperings." Tossing a wink at George, as I say this.

 

[bullshot]

George

"Here catch" George said tossing a grooming brush to Sam as he started to groom his own horse, leaving her to start on Damion, knowing that she loved the horse and would want to groom him herself.

With years of practice George finished his horse and stalled her before Sam was half way through doing Damion.

"Here let me give you a hand," he said as he approached her. "The sooner we get finished the sooner we can eat," he added.

As the worked they laughed as they both tried to brush the same part of Damion at the same time and their hand met with the brushes.

 

[LadyChance]

Sam

"Now I was brushing that spot," laughing with George enjoying the companionship working together that we seemed to have. George was cute, and yeah I had just lost my husband not but a month before. But Tom and I hadn't really had a marriage since the day we had left the ranch. So it was nice to find a guy, one with manners, who wasn't over bearing or commanding. Just sharing in the time and seeming to enjoy it as much as I was.

The soft brushes of his hands when he would accidently brush the same area that I was causing our hands to touch made my stomach flip. Something I hadn't felt in a very long time, Tom had been good looking in a sort of prep style way but George had that rugged weathered look. That reminded me of the guys from the old west. The ones that always saved the day, with their gentle words and strong sure hands.

"You know I don't ever remember Damion's coat looking so fine with shine before. He really is enjoying this treatment, its been so long since I have been able to do anything like this. It's going to take me a little while to get back into the swing of things. Maybe with us all working at it, things will change."
I knew I was flitting with George in my own little way, but I couldn't help it I wanted to see more of his smile and hear his easy laughter. The way his eyes lit up made me feel as if I was the reason for it and I loved that most of all.

Realizing that I had gone quiet and that George was looking at me as if I had missed something he had said, "I.. I'm sorry my mind was far away just now did you say something?" Oh yeah, I had been caught and my face knew it, there was no doubt about the heat that radianted from the reddness.

 

[LadyFairy]

Katherin looked the girl over and smiled as she said. Welcome aboard Breanne we can use all the help i can get around here... If you'll come with me to the stables we can get your horse taken care of, and after dinner will discuss what your job will be, as well as pay. She said motioning for her to dismount from her horse, and follow her to the stables where she had seen the ferrier, Sam, and George go.

Shaking her head at one more thing she had forgotten to do in her hurry to get the fence fixed. She was going to have to remember to ask the Ferrier his name... Damn she thought i really am slipping.

Thinking back on the fence Katherin doubted Mr'Oconnor would bother showing up on her doorstep, she was sure he had plenty of other things to deal with then accepting her invitation, and she hadnt really cared for the fact that he had barly acknowledged George....

Moving into the stable she smiled hearing Sam and George's banter back and forth as George finnished with his horse and helped Sam with Dameion. Kat enjoyed hearing peoples laughter and seeing people working toghether. The more she heard it the more she felt life was comming back to the ranch.

Hey ya Samantha.. George... I beleive we may have a new hand for the ranch, after dinner George if you would mind helping me find her a sutable position i would appreceate it, and then you Sam, and i can go over the books. She said showing Breanne where she could stable her horse and where to find the things she would need to brush him down.

Moving over to Dave seeing he was finnished with Butter Cup she smiled and said.. I am sorry i didnt get your name earler.. unfortunally my mind was preocupided with getting the fence fixed, and i want to thank you for taking care of Butter Cup for me, you and George are doing a fine job. Looking over at Breanne she nodded and said. This is Breanne she is going to be working for me as well, if you would help George, Sam, and I find her a sutable position after dinner i would appreceate it.

Turning back to the room at large seeing that all the horses were taken care of she said her Come on everyone lets go see what Carolyn has fixed up for dinner, and find out who our new guests are.... If their planning on staying we may have to set up rooms in the bunk house after all.

 

[bullshot]

George

Realizing that I had gone quiet and that George was looking at me as if I had missed something he had said, "I.. I'm sorry my mind was far away just now did you say something?" Oh yeah, I had been caught and my face knew it, there was no doubt about the heat that radianted from the reddness.

George laughed at the look of consternation on her face when she realised he'd said something and she hadn't heard. He was glad that she'd missed it because having had time to think about it he felt that he'd over stepped the mark. He'd only know her a few hours and he was saying things he normally avoided with the owners family, the effect this girl was having on him scared him a little.

He was thankful that Miss Katherin came into the stables at this point saving them both more embarrassment.

Turning back to the room at large seeing that all the horses were taken care of she said her Come on everyone lets go see what Carolyn has fixed up for dinner, and find out who our new guests are.... If their planning on staying we may have to set up rooms in the bunk house after all.

George was glad to hear Katherin say that, he'd been living on trail food for the past week and a good meal was something he was looking forward to.

"After you ladies," he said as he stood back for Katherin, Sam and Breanne to lead the way.

He wondered who the new guests where and what they were doing on the ranch. From the cars they'd arrived in he didn't think they were the type who'd be looking to work on the ranch, and they already had a cook.

Breanne looked as if she would be able to carry out the role of a ranch hand just from the way she rode her horse into the yard.

 

[LadyChance]

Sam

"Tis a pleasure to meet you Breanne, I'm Sam.. Kat's sister. I am sure your going to make a great addition to the ranch here." Smiling as I say this to the newcomer, seeing the way she controlled and handled her horse made me sure she would fit perfectly in on the ranch.

Turning to Kat, "dinner sounds great and from the smell of it I think its going to be great at that. Hopefully we aren't to late to enjoy it while its hot." Laughing lightly with the thought of a cold dinner. Even cold would be better then nothing at this point, my stomache must have agreed with my thoughts as it lets out a long growl of hunger.

Following along with the others as we all head towards the house, the smell of food on the air drawing us like moths to a flame. I had yet to speak to Kat but I knew before the night was over with her and I would. I just hoped it didn't hit her to hard.

"Kat, after dinner can we talk for a bit, I had something that I need to talk to you about. Its rather important and well it needs to be tonight please if you do not mind."

 

[LadyFairy]

Kat was smiling as they headed twords the house to eat, and hearing Sam's words she slowed, allowing George, Dave, and Breanne to go on in ahead of them.

Truning to look at Sam as they made it up on the porch she sat down on the old wooden porch swing crossing her legs at the ankels infront of her resting them on the porch railing. As she looked over at Samantha, Katherin's dark blue eyes saw alot, and offered understanding as they gazed into Green ones.

Tom had always been an Ass when it came to Sam and Kat had never understood why she had stayed with him for so long. She and Sam had always shared everything with each other... never holding back...

Kat new that Sam would have loved to smack her around a few times when Katherin had failed to notice when some guy or another was paying attention to her, and Kat had admitted to Sam on more than one occasion that she would like to meet a guy, but the right one hadnt come along yet.

When he did he would be one of those that made her forget everything, and Sam had told her time and again that she was dreaming... and in which case Kat would agree.. She had too much responcablitiy to forget anything, especally after her parents deaths... First had been collage and now the Ranch..

Well hun with this full house this is most likely the only chance we will have to talk, and i have a few things to discuss with you also.. So you first i know it has to do with Tom as he's not here with you so start talking, What did my no good brother do this time? She said her expression serious as she waited for Sam to join her on the swing.

 

[Cathleen]

Carolyn heard the sound of horses, it wasn't something she was used to. It sounded perfect to her ears. The voices too were wonderful to hear. She was thinking maybe this was a magical place because in just a few hours she felt like she was home. She was humming while she worked and the banter with Anna and Penny was pleasant.

"Ladies I'm going to start putting steaks on the grill, I'll be back in a few minutes." She stepped out the kitchen door and her breath caught, the colors of the sky and the vastness were incredible. She drank it in like water. Mountains and hills had always made her feel at home since a little girl and they still held that power. She wanted to find time to explore all she saw before her.

When she returned to the kitchen she smiled at Penny who held a large basket of home made biscuts - and a smile as large too. Anna had prepared a great relish tray and dressing for the salad and a few more bottles of wine that she had set on the table. The baked potatoes were about ready to come out of the oven. She wanted everything timed well for everyone to enjoy. She heard people coming and going and the shower going and stopping. It was all happened like a concert of movements.

Anna and Carolyn were snapping the green beans so they could be steamed. Penny was setting dishes out for the veggies and platters for the steaks. The three worked well together. Even if they didn't stay long it was always nice to have help in the kitchen. Kitchens were such a warm place in a home. There was always a sense of heart and caring there.

She heard Kat nearing the porch and met her out there with a few pitchers of ice water for everyone in case they were thirsty before dinner. She smiled at the young woman and thought how strong she must be to handle this place on her own. She looked forward to getting to know her, and the others too.

Carolyn stood on the front porch, her hands on her hips and smiled at all she saw and heard, the deep breath of clean cool air and let out a long held sigh. Yep, this was good.

 

[bullshot]

George

Because he was walking close to Sam as they neared the ranch house he heard her ask Katherin for some time to talk. When Katherin lagged behind pulling Sam with her he knew that Katherin had decided they wouldn't get any privacy with the house as full as it appeared.

He acepted the drink off Carolyn as did the others.

"like to show us the way to where we eat?" George asked Carolyn when he realised she was going to stay on the porch and stop Katherin and Sam having their private talk.

He waited for Carolyn to lead the way into the kitchen

 

[Trailryder]

OOC: Sorry guys not been able to post last couple of days. But Im back now on a regular basis.

IC: Dave introduced himself to Katherine telling her it was quite alright that she had been so busy. He explained that he had been spending time with the horses away from all the people getting to know them as they were the reason he was here. After looking at hundreds of horses he could size one in up in a few minutes and get an idea of its temperment, abilities, quirks, and began to form a plan to train the horse for what it would fit it the best." I really appreciate the chance to work with these horses and want you to know that I will totally devote myself to them. I often sleep in the stalls with some of my horses or just outside in the barn hallway. So I don't really need a room in the house as I prefer the company of my charges to that of people. I'm not saying I don't like people but I can understand horses and they understand me where people is always a mystery." He smiled at her hoping that she would understand and not think he was a wacko or anything like that. Dave began to make the rounds introducing himself to everyone but saying little though what he did say was very warm and friendly.

 

[Cathleen]

Carolyn

"Nice to meet you George. Come on, the kitchen is right down the hall. I hope you enjoy the meal. Penny, Anna and I all contributed and had fun bringing it together. Come on... eat to your hearts content." Carolyn led George down the hall.

The table looked inviting, lots of good food and wine. Carolyn had even found a few flowers in the small garden out back to add a little extra to the table. She made a mental note to talk with Kat about expanding the garden next spring, Carolyn loved flowers with a passion and no matter where she was, she had to have flowers. An obession but not a bad one she thought with a smile.

Everyone was making their way to the table. It was big enough for a small army, just like when she was a kid in the neighborhood. All the families had big dinner tables so seeing the scene here was bringing back fond memories. She was a bit quiet as she made sure all the dishes made it to everyone. She felt so useful, almost needed actually and that felt good.

She joined the table and enjoyed some of Penny's biscuts and smiled at her. It was a good day. One of the best Carolyn had had in a while. She looked out the window at the changing colors of the sky. After dinner was done and cleaned up, she thought she'd spend some time outside enjoying the night. It would be a chance to clear her head, and her heart maybe.

The chatter started slowly at the table but was growing as everyone started to settle in, with each other and the ranch. It felt good - right even.

 

[shadowoftheheart]

Penny smiled at everyone she met, and had a sense of pride at her biscuits, and how well they seemed to be received. She had enjoyed it.

She reminded herself to talk to Carolyn ... or whomever made decisions here ... to see if she could stay on, and help Carolyn out in the kitchen ... or wherever she was needed. For a while at least. She knew she'd eventually want to move on, to see the Rockies, Yosemite, the Grand Canyon, and so on. For now, maybe a horse ranch in Montana with good, honest folks was what she needed in her life.

 

[LadyChance]

Sam

Sitting down next to Kat not wanting to meet her eyes just yet, I turn to look at the evening sky. Taking in the beautiful array of colors, from deep crimson to pink then orange in areas mixed with grays and blues, there was just a hint of lavender in there as well. The evening was turning out to be loving actually, off to my right I could hear the night insects starting to buzz and move about. This had been my home for so long and now I just wanted it to be home again.

How did I tell my best friend all that had transpired with her brother and I these last three years. "Kat.. first off I would like to say, this has been my home for as long as I can remember. And I would really like to stay, if you will have me but.."

Holding up a finger to Kat as I see her mouth fly open, I knew she was going to tell me that I was welcome anytime, but I wanted her to know it all before she said anything she might regret. It wasn't that I hadn't done anything wrong exactly, but I had not wrote and told her of Tom's death or some of the other things she should have known about.

"Wait here me out before saying anything, first I need to start at the beginning. I know you have always wondered why I stayed with Tom, well in the beginning the answer was simple. I found out I was pregnant right before Tom purposed to me, I wasn't going to tell him yes. But you know how crazy I was about doing the right thing. Well, I married him with the understanding that we were to stay here with you on the ranch and help keep it going. Then Tom changed his mind and after we got married, he found another job and being his wife and with his child it was only right I went with. Tom forbade me from telling you or anyone, he said it was best to keep it between us for a while."

I could see the compassion building in Kat's eyes as she listened to the goings on. And why I had gone with Tom, but I didn't want pity I just wanted her to know all of what had happened.

"After we moved away I found Tom was having an affair, come to find out the one I found out about wasn't the first one. But in truth it was far from it, from what I could gather he had been messing around from the beginning. Starting with some girl at the office and then moving on to those he met while away on business. He was always gone never coming home from work and receiving late night phone calls, then leaving without telling me where he was going."

Now I could see anger mixed with the compassion, I understood her feelings though since I had already been through it all myself. Shaking my head at her as I once again see her start to form a sentence to say.

"Kat, I lost the baby.. It wasn’t do to Tom or anything he did exactly.. Her name was Sally and she was like his third or fourth affair. She actually came to me to let me know that Tom and her were messing around. She thought I should know what kind of man I was married to. Needless to say you know me, I got really upset and took off in the car, the roads were wet and I took the curve to fast. When I woke up in the hospital the baby was gone and Tom was there promising me all kinds of things. Things like he wouldn’t do it again, that we would get pregnant again. But it was all lies as I was to find out later, he had already been in to see a doctor and gotten fixed. He never meant for me to get pregnant again.”

All the feelings I had felt the day I had found out that information swamped me, and I felt my eyes misting again just thinking about it. But instead of letting it get to me I just continued to talk. Hoping that it would just go away and be lost in the back of my mind one more time.

“Tom got into gambling quiet a bit afterwards, he would leave for work and not come home for days. Of course he was seeing others again as well, we had a huge argument just before he went away for a work related meeting. They say the plane was caught in some major turbulence and all on the plane was lost, including Tom.”

Kat sudden movement next to me let me know she understood my words. And I wasn’t sure how to explain the next part but I did know it needed doing. I just didn’t want to hurt Kat anymore then she would be, but she needed to know all of it.

“I wanted to contact you to let you know but it wouldn’t have mattered, in Tom’s will he left most of what he had to me. But I had to pay off his debts, but he made a stipulation about his being buried. You were not to be allowed to know where, when, how or to even be there. Kat I don’t know what you two argued about before we left but afterwards I wasn’t allowed to even mention your name, he would tell people that he was an only child. I am so sorry Kat, you know I would have told you if I had been able to, and yes I know I still could have after Tom died but to be honest with everything else that had happened in those three years, I had everything else to adjust to. The only thing that wasn’t taken to pay off debts for Tom’s gambling and such was his life insurance policy. Kat there is enough once the lawyers finish their business with it, we could bring the ranch back to its glory. And if you would not mind I would like to do just that, to stay here and start over again. I have missed being home, I have missed being here with you and the horses. Its not going to be a whole lot, but it would be a good start and then if we talk to the others maybe we can work things out that everyone would have a share.”

Having had my say with all that happened the last three years, I waited for Kat’s reaction to decide if I was to stay or leave. Either way I would make sure that some way Kat would have the ranch brought back to its former glory. With or without her knowing about it. I had decided this just after Tom’s death when I had found all the letters that Kat had sent, Tom must have gotten to them first since I had never seen them before. But he had kept everyone of them in his desk locked away unopened. The day I had found them I remembered sitting at that desk reading for hours. The troubles that Kat had been having the pleas for help, her distress over having to sell some of the livestock. My choice was made now it was just left up to Kat. I was going to start over and begin a new, I wanted it to be here but that would be Kat’s choice.

 

[Screech]

ooc: Here at the request of Miss Fairy

Name: Timothy Douglas
Age: 27
Height: 5' 10"
Build: light frame
Appearance: Grey eyes and short, messy brown hair. small beard - hasn't shaved in months. Wears jeans, long sleaved shirt, shades and a baseball cap. Has a large duffel bag containing artists equipment

IC: Tim was in need of work. Being an artist, he survived on selling his drawings and paintings to galleries and, when able, at specific auctions. However, the cash from that only reall paid for living expenses. He had a bike to run as well as his paints and art equipment that wern't covered. So, he had decided to take to the road. Having sold off his home, he had loaded only the most basic of neccesities into his bikes saddlebags.

Having loved horses ever since his folks took a holiday to Ireland, and took him with them, Tim decided to check out the ranches. Roumer had it one of the ones in the local area, owned by a Miss Renalds, has some spaces for people willing to work. If not, the O'Conners were likley to hire too.

Pulling his Suzuki motorbike to a halt outside what he had been told was Miss Reynolds' ranch, he climbed off and slung his bag over his shoulder before walking toward the main building

 

[bullshot]

George

"Nice to meet you George. Come on, the kitchen is right down the hall. I hope you enjoy the meal. Penny, Anna and I all contributed and had fun bringing it together. Come on... eat to your hearts content." Carolyn led George down the hall.

George followed Carolyn down the hall into a large kitchen, the table in the middle was big enough to seat over twenty people so at some time the ranch must have had a large staff.

He walked around introducing himself to each one of the ladies present, Penny was here for a holiday but was willing to help out in the kitchen, Anna wanted to take riding lessons and stay for a while.

When he spoke to Dave he suggested that they choose three or four likely mares to be mated with Damion and see if they could get a couple of foals that would be suitable to train as race horses.

"Excuse me, I wont be long," he said to the room in general as he heard the sound of a motorbike driving into the yard. He turned to leave the room.

"I'll see who it is," he said to Katherin and Sam as he walked out of the kitchen

"Can I help you?" he asked. "I'm George the forman here," he added to the guy walking towards him.

 

[LadyFairy]

Kat smiled as Carlolyn brought out the drinks for them and said. We will be in shortly thank you for the drinks. and smiled as she and Geroge went inside so that she and Sam could talk in privet.

Hearing a mother bike pull up Kat looked to see who it was and nodded to George as he came out letting them know he would see who it was.

As Kat listened to Samantha's storie her eyes narrowed in anger. Not at Sam no never at Sam, but at everything her no good rotten brother had done. Katherin had always known he was an ass, but she hadnt thought he would go so far as what he had.

Katherin had done her best to keep her mouth shut while Sam had told her storie, and looked out at the sunset... Uncrossing her legs and sitting forward on the swing When Sam was finnished, her hands in front of her Katherin said. I am not mad at you Sam, and you should know me well enough to know you always have a home here, and hell you should have known that if you didnt want to marrie that......

brother of mine... then i would have taken care of you, and the baby but i understand why you married him, and why you stayed. My only regret was not getting to meet my neice..., and i dont blame you for that, and i never will. Tom never said a word about you or the baby the day i called, or i would have been there in a heart beat.

Standing she ran her hand thru her hair and then brought it down hard on the porch railing, cursing as she leaned against it and took a moment to calm down, Her gaze roaming over the Stable and pen's, listining to the horse's, and a cyote in the distance.

Looking back over at Sam when she felt some what calmer she said. Well know i now why you never awncerd the letters i sent, and as for the argument Tom and I had... the day i called.

Well it was about the Ranch.. I told him i needed help, and we hadnt talked sence....The bank has been on my ass sence Ma and Pa died. In away it was a good thing i didnt know about the funaral, i probly wouldnt have gone accept maybe to see how you were, but your home now and thats what matters.

And it will always be here Sam for as long as you like... As for the problems with the ranch they can wait, we dont need to talk about any of that right now we can do that later after dinner.... While were going over the books with George.

Moving away from the railing Kat new there was alot Sam wanted to say, but she shook her head. Knowing that it would keep until they were going over the books in the office. They could talk about the finances then as well as what prices would be the best to set for trail rides, and ridding lessions, and who would be giving them.

Kat would need to talk to George about setting up a rotation schedule to keep watch for cyote's and such at night until they could hire more people, but for now Carolyn's dinner was smelling awfuly good, and a shower sounded nice, but the shower would wait until before she went to bed there was still alot to be done.

Walking inside she new Sam was right behind her, as they moved twords the kitchen. Katherin smiled when she walked in seeing. Dave, Carolyn and two other wemon she had yet to meet all sitting at the large table ready to eat.. Geogrge she new would be inside shortly, after he was done speaking with who ever was out side.

Kat washed her hands at the sink her eyes mysting a little because it had been awhile sence that manny people had been at the table and it was nice to finally have people to share it with.

Seeing Dave had her thinking on their converstation in the Stables, and she decdied that if that was where he was most comfortable then she wouldnt mind him staying out there, and would see about setting up a room in the loft for him if he wanted, but until they had it ready he would have to stay at the house or if he prefered then the bunk house was still open as well it was in good repaire it just needed a little cleaning as it hadnt been open in 3yrs..

Drying her hands she walked over to the table a smile on her face. This smells good Carolyn i cant wait to dig in... Looking at the other two lady's she offered her hand and said. I dont belive we have had the pleasure to meet yet. My name is Katherin Renolds.. Hearing Sam enter as she took her seat she said., and this is my partner, and sister Samanta Renolds. What brings you two ladys out here?

 

[Screech]

Tim smiled and gave a lazy wave to the guy, who identified himself as George, who had come out to meet him. "Hi. I'm Ti Douglas. I was told that this ranch is taking people on. Uhh, this *is* Ms Raynolds ranch, right?"

Tim idly scratched his short, scraggly beard, hoping that, for once in his life, he had arrived at the right place...

 

[shadowoftheheart]

I dont belive we have had the pleasure to meet yet. My name is Katherin Renolds .. and this is my partner, and sister Samanta Renolds. What brings you two ladys out here?

"Penny Hughes. I was ... well, honestly on an adventure, touring the West. Came here looking for a hot meal and warm bed. I don't mind telling you, Carolyn kinda roped me into helping with dinner. Was more than my pleasure, though. I dunno if you have a spare bed for me, but I guess we can discuss that after dinner."

Penny smiled, hoping that Katherin was as nice as she seemed. She realized that her actions had been slightly presumptuous, even if she had ended up helping make dinner ....

 

[bullshot]

Tim smiled and gave a lazy wave to the guy, who identified himself as George, who had come out to meet him. "Hi. I'm Ti Douglas. I was told that this ranch is taking people on. Uhh, this *is* Ms Raynolds ranch, right?"

Tim idly scratched his short, scraggly beard, hoping that, for once in his life, he had arrived at the right place...

"Yes! This is the Renolds Ranch, Miss Renolds is inside, is she expecting you?" George asked.

Tim looked to George as if he'd never seen a horse in his life, well at least he'd be able to keep his balance as long as he stayed in the saddle

"You're looking for work are you, can you ride a horse as well as you ride that bike?" he asked.