For personal and select distribution only (c) by Lori Martin, December 2000
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Michaela quickly found a chair in a secluded corner of the room, and settling herself down in it she began unbuttoning her blouse. As Katie latched on, her cries were immediately quieted. Sully looked down at his nursing daughter and his face beamed with love. "She's so precious," Sully whispered as he leaned down and kissed her little head.

"Yes, she is," Michaela replied in a soft whisper. They sat in silence for a few minutes as they watched their daughter feed. Sully looked up at Michaela and seeing a faraway look in her eyes he asked, "What ya thinking about?"

"Nothing really," returned Michaela and then seeing his eye's gazing into her own, she replied softly, "I guess I was just thinking about what we would be doing if we actually lived in this time. I mean me, I'd probably still be a doctor. But what about you, what do you think you'd be doing?"

"Oh, I don't know," Sully pondered, "whatever it was I'm sure I'd be working outside, maybe in one of them State Parks. Just can't see myself sitting behind a desk, wearing a suit." Michaela leaned in and lightly kissed his lips. "I can't see you doing that either."

"Now, you," Sully gently tapped the tip of her nose, "well you'd probably be working in one of those big fancy hospitals, doing something real challenging, like brain surgery or maybe even taking out someone's bad heart and putting in a good one."

"Hmmm, I wonder if they can actually do anything like that these days," Michaela wondered aloud. "I'm sure the medical advances have far exceeded anything we could possibly imagine."

"I don't know Michaela, even that seems a little far fetched. Replacing someone's heart?" Sully replied skeptically.

"Well maybe, but you never know what new medical advances are just around the corner waiting to be discovered," Michaela answered with a mystical look in her eyes, "after all, Gracie told me that they have actually sent a man to the moon."

"Really?" Sully asked in astonishment.

"Yes, really," Michaela answered as she shifted Katie to her other breast. "Can you imagine that Sully. Remember when Brian was so fascinated by the moon. I can still remember him asking me that question. None of us ever believed it could happen, and now look, they've actually shot a man up in a space ship and sent him to the moon."

"That's amazing," Sully reiterated, "well who knows then, maybe they can do heart transplants now."

Michaela lightly stroked Katie's cheek with her finger. "Sully, what do you think those things are?" Michaela watched as people walked into the room, deposited some coin into a row of very large metal boxes, and then they would reach inside the box and pull something out.

"I don't know, I was wondering that myself," Sully answered, "wait here and I'll go find out." Several moments later Sully called out to her. "Michaela, would you like something to drink. A soda or maybe some apple juice or water. These boxes have food and drinks in them."

"Some water would be great, Sully," Michaela called back to him. Katie was now asleep so Michaela readjusted her clothing and buttoned her blouse. Out of the corner of her eye she saw someone walk into the room and over to the row of metal boxes. Her head flew up in a flash as she heard Sully exclaim, "Brian!"

"Sully? Is that really you? Where's Ma and Katie?" Brian asked worriedly.

"Yes, it's really me," Sully returned as he gave his son a hug. "And your Ma is right over there with Katie."

"Brian!" Michaela shouted, her eyes suddenly filling with tears, "what are you... how did you..." Michaela was too overwhelmed to speak anymore.

"Ma! It's so good to see you," Brian rushed over to his ma and gave her a hug. "I'm so glad you're here."

"Oh, Brian, I've missed you so much, but how did you get here," Michaela asked through her tears.

"I don't really know, ma. The other morning I woke up and found myself sitting on an airplane, dressed in this outfit."

Michaela looked at his attire, her eyes full of questions. Seeing the expression on his ma's face, Brian said, "I'm a flight attendant, Ma."

"A flight attendant?" Sully asked inquisitively. "What's a flight attendant, Brian."

"Well, I take care of the passengers on an airplane. I serve them food and make sure everyone is comfortable. But Sully, Ma, what are you doing here?" Brian suddenly asked. Just then their flight number was announced over the loud speakers. In unison Michaela and Sully looked at each other and said "that's our flight" while at the same time Brian said, "that's my flight."

All three stopped and looked at each other. "You're flying to Las Vegas?" Brian asked. "Yes, how did you know?" Michaela was surprised.

"Because that's the flight I'm supposed to be working next," Brian replied and then seeing the blank look on their faces he said, "I'm going to Las Vegas with you."

Michaela and Sully's faces lit up, "Oh that's wonderful Brian," Michaela exclaimed, "we have so much to tell you."

Brian leaned over and gave his ma a kiss. "I have to be going now but I'll see you on the airplane. We'll talk then, okay, and then you can tell me everything."

"Alright son, we'll see you in a little while," Sully shook his hand. "We'll be sure to tell Matthew that we found you."

"Matthew's here also?" Brian asked in surprise.

"Yes, but we'll tell you all about it later. Right now we have to get going, and so do you," Sully told him.

"Alright, see you on the plane," Brian called over his shoulder as he hurried out the door.

Michaela clutched the arms of the seat as the engines started to roar. "Relax, Michaela," Sully whispered as he placed one hand atop hers while the other held a sleeping Katie. Michaela was sitting on one side of him, her hands clutched tightly in fear while Matthew sat on the other side, nervously wiping his hands on his pants and staring out the window.

"It figures that Brian would be working on an airplane. He always did want to fly," Sully spoke casually. For the past several minutes he had been trying to take their minds off of flying, but it was no use. He could tell by the expression on Michaela's face that she was in no mood for casual conversation.

Just then the airplane jerked slightly as it started down the runway and Michaela's complexion turned an even paler shade of white. Bobbie and Gracie, along with Dotty, were sitting in the seat in front of them. Gracie looked over her shoulder and seeing Dr. Mike's face, she laughed softly and then repeated Sully's earlier words, "Relax, Dr. Mike. There's nothing to be afraid of. Just sit back and enjoy the ride."

Michaela attempted to smile, all the while her fingers digging into Sully's hand. Michaela glanced at Sully, sitting back calmly in his seat. "Aren't you at all nervous, Sully," Michaela asked as Sully pried her fingers from his hand.

"No, not at all," Sully answered honestly. "I kind of like the idea of being up in the sky along with Mother Nature. It's real peaceful." Michaela looked at her husband and smiled. She should have known that he would enjoy something like this, after all, Brian is so much like him. But as she looked over at Matthew she could tell that he was nervous too, although he was trying not to show it.

Suddenly the airplane began to shake as it left the runway and Michaela let out a gasp. Her knuckles had turned white from gripping Sully's hand and her eyes were tightly closed. As the airplane ascended higher and higher into the sky the shaking slowly ceased but Michaela suddenly felt her ears pop. "Sully, my ears just popped, did yours?"

No sooner were the words out of her mouth when suddenly Katie let out a loud wail. "Sshhh, it's all right, Kates," Sully whispered soothingly as he gently rocked her back and forth. But no matter what he tried, her cries would not cease. "Maybe her ears popped also, maybe that's why she's crying," Sully looked to Michaela for help.

Michaela reached for Katie and said, "I'll take her, Sully." She then whispered soothing words to Katie, rubbed her back and gently rocked her back and forth. But no matter what she tried, Katie would not stop crying, her little fingers pulling at her ears. In the back of the plane they heard a male voice, "Would somebody shut that kid up." Sully cast an angry look towards the back of plane and then looking at Michaela he leaned over and whispered, "Michaela, can't you do something?"

Michaela looked around the airplane and noticed that several people were now staring in their direction. Katie's screams echoed throughout the plane. Brian approached them a little reluctantly and in a timid voice he said, "Ma, the passengers are starting to complain. Can't you get her to stop crying?"

"I'm trying, Brian, I'm trying," Michaela's voice cracked slightly as she gingerly bounced Katie up and down. Just then she spotted Dotty looking over her shoulder and she looked at Michaela and whispered, "Michaela, try the nursing." Michaela looked at Dotty and gave her an exasperated sigh, "Alright, I'll try the nursing, I'll try anything at this point."

Michaela threw Katie's blanket over the front of her and quickly unbuttoned her blouse. As she put Katie to her breast her cries were immediately stilled and suddenly both baby and mother began to relax. Sully looked over at his wife's flushed cheeks and knew how embarrassed she was at doing something so private in such a public place. He reached over and gave her hand an encouraging squeeze and kissing her lightly on the cheek he whispered, "I love you."

Michaela flashed him a warm smile and then looking over towards Matthew she asked, "Matthew, are you doing okay?"

"Yeah, I'm fine Dr. Mike," Matthew replied and then shrugging his shoulders slightly he said, "I will have to admit I was a little nervous at first, but now, well, this is fantastic." He looked out the window again and then turning back to Sully and Michaela he said, "It's amazing everything you can see from up here. Everything looks so tiny."

Matthew looked up when he heard a familiar voice, "Hey, Matthew, so how do you like flying?" Brian asked as he knelt down beside them.

"I love it," Matthew answered without hesitation and then glancing over at Michaela he added, "and I even think Ma's beginning to like it a little."

Michaela glanced at her two sons and then smiled, "Well, maybe just a little, but Brian..." her sons looked at her and waited, "when do we land?" she asked anxiously. "I'll feel much better when this plane is safely on the ground." This caused both of them, and Sully, to look at her and laugh.

"It won't be long, Ma," Brian answered as he tried to conceal his grin. "I'm sorry we haven't had much time to talk, but I want to hear everything. Maybe once we get to Las Vegas we can spend some time together. In fact, my next flight out isn't until Wednesday so I'll be able to spend the next couple of days with all of you."

"That's great, little brother," Matthew returned, "and we do have a lot to tell you, but we'll have plenty of time for that later. But right now," he pointed to a passenger a few rows in front of them who was waving an empty glass around, "I think you're needed."

"Yeah, you're right, gotta go. See ya later Ma and Sully," Brian replied as he stood up to attend to his passenger.

Nikki and Danny were sitting in the seat directly behind Sully and Michaela. All throughout their flight Michaela had felt Danny's eyes on her and it was now beginning to bother her. She leaned over close to Sully so only his ears could hear. "Sully, he's beginning to make me feel uncomfortable?"

Sully raised his eyebrow in question, "Who is?" he asked.

"Danny," Michaela kept her voice to a bare minimum, "he keeps staring at me."

"I've noticed that also," Sully spoke with a tinge of anger in his voice, "and I'm gonna say something to him right now. He's got his own girlfriend sittin' right next to him," he spoke in a bitter tone as he glared over his shoulder, "and by the look on her face I don't think she's too happy with him right now either."

"No, please, Sully, don't make a scene," Michaela begged as she placed her hand on his arm. "We'll be in Las Vegas soon, and then home." Sully's brow was creased and his jaw was clenched tight but when he looked into his wife's pleading eyes, his voice suddenly softened. "Alright, if that's what you want," he squeezed her hand lightly, "but if he continues while we're in Las Vegas, I will say something to him."

Michaela leaned back in her seat and letting out a small sigh of relief she gave Sully's arm a light squeeze, "Thank you," she whispered softly. Sully leaned into her and kissed her warm lips. "Your welcome," he whispered, "but if he makes you feel uncomfortable anymore, you'll tell me?" Michaela gave her head a slight nod and smiled warmly into her husband's eyes. She loved him all the more for trying to protect her.

Nikki too had noticed the way Danny looked at Michaela at the airport, and even now during this entire trip. Having put up with it long enough, Nikki leaned in close to Danny and whispered, "Would you stop staring at her," Nikki looked him in the eye.

Danny lowered his eyes and quickly blurted, "What do you mean?"

"I mean," Nikki lowered her voice so no one else could hear, "you've been staring at Dr. Mike ever since we got to the airport."

"I have not," Danny answered guiltily.

"Don't try to deny it Danny. I've been watching you since we arrived and it's pretty obvious to me. And if it's that obvious to me then I'm sure it's obvious to everyone else, including Sully," she added as a warning.

"I've never seen anyone so beautiful before," Danny whispered under his breath but being so close to him, Nikki could hear.

"Yes she is," Nikki replied in frustration and Danny's eyes shot up, "but she also has a husband sitting next to her and you," she stared him coldly in the eye, "have a girlfriend who is right here, sitting beside you."

Danny slid his arm around her shoulder. "Uh, Nikki, I didn't mean anything by it love," Danny stumbled over his words.

Taking his arm by her hand, Nikki placed it back down on his lap. Looking at Danny she said, "We are not staying in Las Vegas. As soon as our meeting is over tomorrow morning, we're leaving for Montana."

"But...," Danny started to protest.

"We're not staying and that's final," Nikki stated again, more firmly this time. "Besides, I'd like to spend some time with my Great Grandfather."

"But they won't know how to get there. We need to stay here so we can take them to your Great Grandfather," Danny tried to reason.

"We'll give them directions, and besides, Gracie, Bobbie and that other woman, Dotty, are with them. They won't get lost," Nikki reaffirmed her position.

"I don't know Nikki, I think maybe......" Danny began but suddenly he stopped as he looked up and saw Sully's steely eyes staring right at him. He quickly turned his head away from Sully's gaze and then looking back at Nikki he replied with resignation, "Alright, we'll leave tomorrow." He leaned over and gave Nikki a light peck on the cheek.

"I'd like to speak to Jack Flicker, please?" Sully asked the man behind the desk.

They were standing in the hotel lobby of the Grand Shire Hotel. Sully and Michaela didn't quite know what to think of this city, Las Vegas. Large neon signs flashed about everywhere advertising the 'lowest price in town'. Gambling was plentiful, and to Michaela's horror, scantily clad women stood on street corners passing out pamphlets advertising sex.

"I'm Jack Flicker, they said you wanted to see me," a medium-build man with dark hair neatly slicked back stepped up to the counter.

"The name's Sully," Sully extended his hand to shake. "Beth Sullivan told us to ask for you. She said you knew we were coming."

"Oh, yeah, she did call me. I was expecting you," Jack firmly gripped Sully's hand. "I've reserved some of my best rooms to accommodate you. Any friend of Beth's is a friend of mine."

"We appreciate that very much," Sully answered sincerely and then he turned to introduce the rest of his group.

"So, how long will you be staying," Jack asked.

"Well, that depends," Sully returned, somewhat reluctant to tell him the real reason that they were there. "Maybe a couple of days or so."

Just then Danny spoke up. "Excuse me, Sir, but we'll only be staying the night." Upon seeing the questioning look on everyone's faces, Nikki glanced at Danny and then quickly explained, "We'll be leaving tomorrow after our meeting. We're going to go ahead to the reservation to spend some time with my Great Grandfather."

After a long moment of tense silence, Bobbie spoke up. "Well then, we'll meet you there," Bobbie replied, "I'll call you and let you know exactly when we'll arrive." Bobbie had also noticed the stares that Danny cast Michaela's way and knowing his friend all too well he had a pretty good idea why they were leaving tomorrow.

Sully too had been surprised by Danny's statement and unconsciously he let out a small sigh of relief. Michaela noticed this and clasping her hand in his, she gave his hand a light squeeze. "We're sorry that you won't be staying," Michaela replied politely, "but we do appreciate your help and we look forward to meeting your Great Grandfather."

"Well, if you're ready, I'll show you to your rooms," Jack interrupted as he stepped out from behind the counter. As Mr. Flicker led the way he suddenly leaned over to Sully and whispered, "I hope you don't mind, but Beth told me all about you." Seeing the puzzled look on Sully's face, he asked, "Is it really true what Beth told me, that you're a time traveler from the 1800's."

Sully couldn't help but smile. "Well, I don't know anything about being a time traveler, but yes, we are from the 1800's. In fact, that's the reason we're here, to try to get home."

"You don't say," Jack replied skeptically, and then shaking his head he said, "Beth did tell me that you were here to try and win some money so you could return home. Well, you sure came to the right place," he grinned.

"Well, we sure hope so," replied Sully. "Beth also told us that you might be able to help us get into a high-stakes poker game. She said it's by invitation only but that you would be able to get us in."

"Well, yes, I could probably do that," Jack replied cautiously, "but I must warn you that all of the people in that game will be professional gamblers and it won't be easy for you to win." And then looking over the small group he added, "Do any of you even know how to play poker?"

"Yeah, I do," Matthew spoke up confidently. Mr. Flicker looked at Matthew and with a slight grunt he mocked, "You, what do you know about poker. You're barely old enough to shave."

"I know enough to win," Matthew replied defensively.

Jack just shrugged his shoulders. "Well, if you say so. The game will start tomorrow night and the winners from that game will play for the final pot the following evening." Mr. Flicker paused as he looked around the group, "Are you sure this is what you want to do. There's an awful lot of money at stake here."

"Yeah, we're sure," Sully spoke up but one look at Michaela and he knew that she wasn't at all sure about this. Sully stood beside Matthew with a reassuring hand on his shoulder. "Matthew can do this," he stated with unwavering conviction.

"Alright then," Jack replied, "I'll make sure you get in the game. In the meantime there's plenty of other things for everyone to do. We have a real nice dinner and show that starts at 6:00. I'm sure all of you would enjoy that."

As they entered the elevator and Mr. Flicker pushed the button, he turned to Michaela and said, "Ma'am, we have a real nice nursery if you'd like to join the others during the game. All of our people have been trained and certified in child care."

Michaela smiled meekly and then glancing at her husband she replied, "Thank you, Mr. Flicker, but I won't be joining them. Katie and I will find something else to occupy our time."

"Ain't the gambling type, huh?" smirked Mr. Flicker. "Well, if there's anything I can do for you, please let me know."

"Thank you, Mr. Flicker, I will," Michaela replied.

"So, how did you meet Beth," Jack asked as they stepped off the elevator.

"We met her at the park yesterday," Sully answered, "she and Dotty were at the Paramount Ranch when we ran into them."

"Yes," Dotty spoke up for the first time, "Beth and I are quite good friends. She talks about you often, Mr. Flicker."

Mr. Flicker's face lit up, "Really, she talks about me?" he asked in surprise. "She's a very special person, that's for sure. She doesn't know it yet, but I'm going to marry her someday," he said matter-of-factly, a smug grin on his face, "Well, here are your rooms." He handed them the keys and then turned to leave, "If there's anything you need, don't hesitate to call me personally."

"What type of a show is this?" Michaela asked innocently as she handed Katie a cracker. Brian had now joined them and they were all seated at a large round table in front of a stage. They had just finished their dinner and were now waiting for the show to begin.

"It says in this program that it's a dance show performed by 'The Las Vegas Show Girls'," Sully answered as his eyes skimmed the page. "It goes on to tell a little bit about the Show Girls and how they got started."

"Dancers?" Michaela's eyes's widened and she placed her hand on top of his, "Oh, Sully, you know how I love to dance. Do you think we could dance after dinner, maybe a waltz or something?" she asked hopefully.

Matthew and Brian rolled their eyes and smiled happily at their parents. Brian leaned over and whispered in Matthew's ear, "I guess it doesn't matter where we are, Ma wants to dance."

Sully leaned in to Michaela and lightly kissed her lips. "We'll see," Sully smiled, "but you know I ain't much for dancin' Michaela."

"But you're a good dancer," Michaela reminded him.

"Only when I got the right partner," Sully returned softly.

"Sully didn't even know how to dance before he met me," Michaela explained to the others. "It was right before our Sweethearts Dance and I had attempted to teach him to dance, but it wasn't going very well. So instead, he went to a very good friend of ours and secretly had her teach him." Michaela leaned towards Sully and gave him a light peck on the cheek. "I was actually quite jealous at the time."

"Why," Dotty asked, "did you think something was going on between the two of them?"

Michaela nodded her head, "Yes, I did, though I know now how foolish that was."

"Yes, it was," Dotty returned. "I can tell just from the short amount of time that I've known the two of you that Sully adores you, and vice versa."

"Thank you," Michaela answered softly, and then turning to Dotty she said, "You know, you remind me of our good friend Dorothy. She's a lot like you."

Dotty reached over and patted Michaela's hand. "Well Michaela, I have no doubt that if I had been alive a hundred years ago and lived in Colorado Springs that we would have been good friends also."

Michaela smiled at Dotty in return and replied, "I'm sure we would have been."

"Well, Dr. Mike," Gracie grinned, "as much as we'd all enjoy watching you and Sully dance, I can't possibly imagine you up there dancing with them.

"What do you mean?" Michaela asked.

"Well, Dr. Mike, these dancers wouldn't have been considered appropriate in your time," Bobbie explained, "though I'm sure Sully would enjoy watching you," his eyes twinkled mischievously.

Michaela looked around the table and saw everyone smiling at her. "I don't understand," she replied in confusion. Looking at Sully, he simply threw up his hands and shrugged his shoulders, implying that he was as much in the dark as she was.

Just then the lights began to dim and the room became quiet. "You will," Bobbie snickered as he turned and winked at Sully. Suddenly the curtains opened and standing before them were 12 scantily clad women. They were dressed in sequins and glitter and they sparkled under the lights. As the music started up they began to kick their legs and shake their bodies like Michaela had never seen done before.

With her hand over her mouth, Michaela gasped, "Oh my!" Sully turned to her and even in the dim light he could tell that she was blushing. Smiling, Sully removed her hand from her mouth and held it tightly in his own. Leaning close to her he whispered, "You still wanna dance?"

"Sully!" Michaela admonished softly, "that's not funny."

"It's not?" Sully couldn't help the smile that played on his lips. Looking around the table Sully saw that Brian and Matthew were mesmerized by the dancing girls. Rubbing Michaela's hand with his thumb he whispered, "You may not like this show Michaela, but I know two people who do." He pointed in the direction of Matthew and Brian, sitting side by side, their eyes glued to the stage. "I think Matthew and Brian are definitely enjoying the show," Sully stated.

Michaela nervously fingered the napkin in her lap. "Sully, Brian's still at a very impressionable age. I don't think a show of this nature is appropriate for him, do you?"

"Michaela," Sully grabbed hold of Michaela's hand, "Brian's not a child anymore, he's a young man," and then leaning closer he whispered, "and whether you approve or not, young men like looking at girls."

Michaela blushed even more. "And not only young men, right?" she replied. She had noticed how all of the men at their table, including Sully, were watching the stage with big smiles on their faces.

Sully leaned over and gave Michaela a kiss. "You know I only have eyes for you," Sully spoke softly while under the table his hand moved sensually across her knee, "But aren't you the one who said there's no harm in lookin'," Sully asked, a slight grin on his face.

"No," Michaela retorted, "that was Gracie who said that," and then smiling timidly she added softly, "and my mother." Michaela raised her eyes to see Sully smiling at her. "And I suppose they're right," Michaela replied, "I guess there isn't any harm in looking."

"Does that mean I can watch too?" Sully asked teasingly, a twinkle in his eye.

Michaela playfully slapped his arm, "Yes, that means you also," she smiled in return, "now be quiet and watch the show."

Sitting next to Brian, Danny leaned over and lightly nudged him in the side. "Hey Brian," Danny chided teasingly, "by the look on your face I'd say you've never seen a half-naked girl before."

"I have too," Brian retorted defensively, remembering the day he and his friend had spied on his sister in the creek.

Matthew laughed softly and leaning in to Brian he whispered, "I don't know if you can actually count that time, I mean it was your sister after all," Matthew teased.

"It wasn't just Colleen, her friends were there too," Brian replied smugly but that only caused Matthew and Danny to laugh even more.

"And like you've seen so many naked women before, Matthew," Brian shot back.

"Boys! That's enough," Michaela quietly reprimanded from across the table. Brian's head shot up and seeing the look in his mother's eyes, he quickly changed the subject. "So Matthew, which one do you like best?" Brian asked.

"What do you mean, which one?" Matthew asked innocently.

"Oh come on Matthew, I seen you looking real hard, so which girl do you like best?" Brian continued.

"Well, they're all very pretty of course," Matthew blushed slightly.

"But one in particular has caught your eye, right?" Danny guessed correctly.

Matthew shyly nodded his head. "Which one is she Matthew?" Brian asked excitedly.

"The blonde-haired girl in the middle," Matthew whispered. "She has such a sweet and innocent smile, kinda reminds me of Ingrid," he continued wistfully.

"Which one," Brian whispered as he pointed to the group of girls, "they all have blonde hair."

Matthew pointed his finger at the stage and said, "She's the fifth one in on the right, there, you see her?." Just then the girl on the stage caught his eye and smiled back at him. "Hey," Brian nudged Matthew's side, "she's looking right at you. I think she likes you too, Matthew."

Turning a deeper red, Matthew quickly lowered his gaze. "So which one do you like best little brother," Matthew asked.

"Hmmm, let me see," Brian contemplated, "they're all pretty, but if I had to pick just one," his eyes scanned their faces, "I'd pick....." Squinting his eyes Brian focused his eyes on the dancing girls. "Colleen!" Brian exclaimed, nudging Matthew with his elbow, "Matthew, that girl looks just like Colleen, except with blonde hair."

"Where? Which one?" Matthew asked incredulously.

"Colleen!" Michaela shrieked as she overheard her two sons, "where?" But as Brian pointed to the stage the dancers began to move around and the girl moved to the back row, her face obscured from their view.

"No way, Brian, you must be seeing things," Matthew shook his head in denial, "Besides, there's no way that Colleen would be one of those dancers."

"Why not?" Brian asked, "she wanted to be a Herdie Gerdie dancer, remember?"

"I don't think that's quite the same thing Brian," Sully spoke in a low voice, his hand reaching out and clasping Michaela's, "besides, Colleen hasn't had blonde hair since she was a young girl."

"Uh, Sully," Bobbie kept his voice low, "those are only wigs. I doubt if any of them are natural blondes."

"Who's Colleen?" Dotty asked as she looked around the table at the many faces. She seemed to be the only one who didn't know who Colleen was.

"Colleen is our oldest daughter," Michaela explained. "She's going to school in Denver to study to become a doctor. She was on her way home for Thanksgiving but her train couldn't get through because of the storm."

"Well, maybe it is her then," Dotty conceded, "after all, Brian and Matthew are here, right?"

"No, Matthew's right, it couldn't be her," Michaela replied. "She'd never dress like that or dance like that."

"Now Dr. Mike," Gracie smirked, "remember, this isn't the 1800's nor are you in Colorado Springs anymore. And look at you, you would have never worn that bathing suit in Colorado Springs, but you did here, right?"

"Only after much convincing," Michaela murmured shyly, a slight blush rising on her cheeks.

Sully leaned in closer and for her ears only, his eyes twinkling, he whispered, "Would you wear it again for me tonight?"

"We're not at the beach anymore, Sully," she spoke softly.

"No, we're not, but Bobbie told me this place has a swimming pool inside." Sully flashed her an impish smile, "So what do you say?"

"I say we can discuss this later," she whispered in return, and then flashing him a crooked smile she added in a soft and husky voice, "and if you're real good tonight, Mr. Sully, maybe I'll even show you my own private dance."

"Now that's somethin' worth waiting for," Sully grinned broadly. Just then the music stopped and as the dancers lined up to take their bow, Michaela's eyes met briefly with one of the girls. As the lights began to brighten and their faces came into full view, Michaela dropped her fork and shrieked, "Colleen!"

"Ma!" the girl on the stage mouthed silently, her eyes wide open in shock. As the curtain came down, the table began to buzz with conversation.

"Oh my God Sully, that is Colleen," Michaela exclaimed in disbelief.

"See, Matthew, I told you it was her," Brian replied smugly and then he added, "Wow, she looks great up there, doesn't she?"

"She sure does," Danny replied right before he felt Nikki's elbow in his side. "What?" he asked innocently.

A few minutes later Colleen came rushing over to their table, "Ma! Sully! What are all of you doing here?" How did you get here?" Colleen wondered.

"Colleen, I can't believe it's really you," Michaela's voice choked as she reached out for a hug. After giving her mother a hug she then turned to Sully and giving him a hug also she said, "How did all of you get here, and what are you doing in Las Vegas?"

"It's good to see you too, Colleen," Sully returned her embrace. "And how we got here is a very long story." Looking up into Colleen's eyes Sully asked, "Can you join us?"

"Sure, this was my last show today," Colleen replied and then looking around the table she shook her head in amazement, "I still can't believe it's you." Bending down she kissed the top of Katie's head and then glancing towards her brothers she exclaimed, "Matthew, Brian, it's so good to see you again."

Suddenly Colleen heard someone standing behind her clearing their throat. Turning around she suddenly remembered her friend. "Everyone, I'd like you to meet my friend Tracy Snyder," Colleen began and then taking Tracy by the hand she pulled her over to the table. "Tracy, I'd like you to meet my ma, Dr. Michaela Quinn, and this is my pa, Sully," she said proudly.

"It's nice to finally meet you both. Colleen has told me so much about you," Tracy replied meekly.

Sully pushed back his chair and standing up, he extended his hand. "Tracy, it's nice to meet a friend of Colleen's. Please, have a seat," Sully replied, pointing to the two empty chairs that Bobbie had thoughtfully brought over to their table.

Pushing his chair back, Matthew stood up and pulling the empty chair up to the table beside him he turned to Tracy and said, "Hi, Tracy, I'm Colleen's older brother, Matthew. Please, have a seat."

Tracy looked shyly at Matthew and in a timid voice she answered, "Thank you, Matthew. Colleen has told me so much about you. I feel like I already know you."

"I hope it's all been good," Matthew returned and then remembering Brian he said, "Tracy, this is my little brother, Brian."

Colleen took the empty chair next to Michaela and turning to her, she anxiously asked, "Ma, what are you doing here?"

"I could ask you the same thing, Colleen" Michaela returned as her eyes scanned Colleen's scantily glad body, "but first, I think you should put some clothes on."

"Oh ma!" Colleen exclaimed, "you always were such a prude," but after a stern look from Sully, Colleen quickly added, "but I'll go get our capes if it will make you feel better."

"Thank you, Colleen," Michaela breathed a sigh of relief. Several minutes later Colleen returned with a cape for herself and one for Tracy. As soon as Colleen took her seat Michaela anxiously grabbed her arm and asked, "Colleen, what are you doing up there dancing. I don't think it's very appropriate for a girl your age..."

"Ma! this is Las Vegas," Colleen cried in exasperation, "and there's nothing wrong with what I'm doing or with the way I'm dressed. Please," Colleen begged, "don't be upset with me."

"I'm not upset, Colleen," Michaela sighed heavily, "it's just.. well, so much has happened in the last few days and I guess I was just a little shocked at seeing you up there."

"Oh, that's alright, Ma, I understand," Colleen spoke softly.

"Colleen, what are you doing 'here'?" Michaela asked gently, "I mean of all the jobs to choose from, why would you pick dancing up on a stage half dressed?"

Colleen looked at her mother and rolled her eyes, "Ma, I'm going to college here to become a doctor and I only work here during the summer and my breaks. This job really pays a lot of money and that way I can save enough and not have to work while I'm going to school."

"I see," Michaela replied, her tone disapproving, "and how did you find out about this job?"

"From my friend Tracy. I met her at college and we've become best friends," Colleen answered, "but ma, tell me, what are you and Sully doing here, and in Las Vegas of all places. I mean, I know how you feel about gambling."

"That's a long story Colleen, but I'll fill you in as much as I can," Sully spoke up and then glancing across the table, his lips turning up in a slight smile, he said, "It looks like Matthew and your friend Tracy have hit it off real good."

"Yes, it does," Colleen smiled and then leaning closer to Michaela she whispered, "Tracy hasn't had it very easy. She lost both her ma and her pa in an airplane accident when she was only 15. She's pretty much been on her own since then."

"Didn't she have anyone else, any brothers or sisters?" Michaela asked woefully.

"No, she was an only child, she didn't even have any aunts or uncles. She told me she lived with a friend of her mothers for awhile but they didn't get along so she left when she was 16. She's been living on her own since then."

"Well, I'm glad she has you as a friend now," Michaela spoke softly. "Yeah, me too," Sully replied, "I know what it's like to be on your own at such a young age." Michaela grasped Sully's hand and squeezed it lightly.

It was much later when Michaela leaned over and in a quiet voice she said, "Sully, it's getting late. I really should be getting Katie to bed. She's already half asleep." Sully lightly stroked the top of Katie's head. "Yeah, you're right. We probably should be getting back to our room now, we got a big day ahead of us tomorrow."

Turning to Colleen, Michaela asked, "Colleen, where are you staying?"

"Tracy and I have an apartment not far from here," Colleen answered.

"An apartment, what's that?" Michaela asked curiously. But it was Sully who answered. "You remember all those buildings that Gracie and Bobbie showed us on the way to the airport," Sully reminded her, "remember they all looked alike and Bobbie said they were where people lived." Nodding her head Michaela answered meekly, "Oh that's ri, I remember now."

Glancing across the table at her brothers Colleen smiled at her friend and said, "Maybe Matthew can walk us back?"

"Yeah, that would be great," Matthew quickly answered as he lay his hand over top of Tracy's, "I'll be glad to walk you home." He flashed a smile towards Tracy who returned it with a shy smile of her own.

"I'll walk with all of you," Brian spoke up, "if you don't mind, that is."

"Of course we don't mind," Colleen answered but then looking at Matthew she asked softly, "do we?"

"No, of course we don't mind," Tracy piped up. "We'd be delighted to have you come along, Brian. Maybe we can even show you a little bit of the city."

As Michaela pushed back her chair she turned to her sons and said, "Alright, but I don't want either of you staying out late. This is a strange town and..."

Matthew let out a sigh and rolling his eyes at his mother he said, "Dr. Mike, we aren't little kids anymore. We can take care of ourselves."

"I know that Matthew, but..." Michaela began but as she felt a gentle hand on her shoulder she heard Sully interrupt, "Enjoy yourselves boys," he winked and then turning to Michaela he spoke softly, "They're not children anymore Michaela, you gotta learn to let go."

Casting Sully a disapproving look, Michaela turned to her sons and said reluctantly, "Alright, but please be careful."

"We will Ma," Brian answered as he walked over to give her a hug. Kissing Katie on the top of her head, Brian said, "Goodnight Ma, we'll see you in the morning."

Back in their hotel room, Michaela undressed in silence. Walking up behind her, Sully gently placed his hands on her shoulders and slowly turning her around to face him he asked, "You’ve been awfully quiet, is something wrong?"

"No," she answered curtly, her eyes falling to the floor. But Sully knew better. Lifting her chin to look at him he pleaded softly, "Come on, Michaela, I can tell when something's bothering ya. What is it?"

"I just don't think you should be encouraging him is all," Michaela's voice was disapproving. "Encourage who?" Sully asked, truly in the dark.

"Matthew, that's who," Michaela retorted in exasperation. "Didn't you see him holding hands with her?" Sully lifted his hands off of Michaela's shoulders and shrugging his own he replied, "Yeah, I saw, so what?"

"He just met her Sully. I don't want to see him getting hurt again," her voice quivered.

"Michaela, he was only holding her hand," Sully returned lovingly.

"I know," Michaela sighed, "but what if he ends up falling in love with her and decides to stay." Looking up into Sully's eyes, Michaela cried softly, "He can't stay here, Sully, he can't."

"Is that what's worrying ya," Sully wiped away the single tear that was silently falling down her cheek.

"I'm just afraid that if he thinks this is his last chance at happiness, that he'll want to stay here, and I couldn't bear that, Sully," Michaela cried hopelessly.

"I think you're getting ahead of yourself Michaela, after all, he just met her," Sully replied reassuringly, but he too had seen the sparkle in Matthew's eyes.

"Yes, I know that, but..." Michaela's voice trailed off.

"But?" Sully asked, his eyes searching hers.

"Well, it's just.." she lowered her eyes to the floor. "Yes?" Sully implored as he gently squeezed her shoulders.

Michaela slowly raised her eyes to meet Sully's and in a soft voice she said, "I just don't want him to make any rash decisions, that's all," her voice quivered, "I mean, I know how unhappy he's been ever since Ingrid died and I don't want him rushing into anything."

"But we want him to be happy, right? You said so yourself," Sully brushed his thumb lightly across her cheek.

"Of course I do, but.....", Michaela hesitated.

"But what?" Sully's eyes gently encouraged her.

"But I don't want him falling in love with the first girl that comes along," Michaela's fears came out in a rush, "and I'm afraid that he may rush into a decision about returning home, especially if he's smitten with a certain young lady."

"Maybe it's fate," Sully shrugged his shoulders as he tried to explain, "maybe that's why all of this has happened. Maybe Matthew's meant to stay here."

"How can you say such a thing, Sully," Michaela raised her voice, "Don't even think that. Matthew has to return with us, he just has to," her eyes shimmered with tears.

Sully quickly reached for her and gently squeezed her shoulders. "Just calm down and let's not go jumping to any conclusions," his voice was soothing. "And I ain't saying that's gonna happen any ways, it was just a thought," he added.

Looking up at Sully she sighed, "You're right, I know, and I can't very well tell Matthew what to do with his life. But I don't know what we'd do without him Sully" she whimpered softly. Sully suddenly drew her into his arms and embraced her. "It'll be alright, Michaela," he whispered as he kissed the top of her head.

Michaela took a deep breath and straightening her shoulders she raised her head and nodded, "but you're right, I'm letting myself get all worked up over nothing." She paused and then in a soft voice she continued in a bare whisper, "I'm sorry, it's just that so much has happened.. and now Colleen."

"It's alright, Michaela, I understand," Sully pulled back to look into her eyes. Suddenly his eyes began to twinkle and smiling mischievously he said, "I think what you need right now is something to help you relax, and I got just the right medicine."

Michaela raised her eyebrow and with a crooked smile of her own she asked, "Oh? And just exactly what medicine is that, 'Doctor' Sully?" she suddenly shivered as he ran his hands slivered slowly down her spine.

"Come on, I'll show you," he whispered seductively as he led her into an adjoining room. Much to Michaela's surprise a large round tub was tucked away in the corner. "It's called a hot tub," Sully answered her unspoken question. "Bobbie told me all about it." Sully walked over to the tub and turned it on. "You just hit this button and the water shoots out from these holes," Sully demonstrated.

"This is wonderful, Sully," Michaela beamed as she stuck her hand in the tub to feel the temperature of the water, "It will be just like sitting in the hot springs back home."

"Yep," Sully smiled broadly and walking over to stand behind her, he wrapped his arms tightly around her. Michaela reached up and placed her hands over his and turning slightly she said, "It is just what the doctor ordered. Thank you, Sully," she spoke softly.

"You're welcome," he returned, "now come on, the water looks real invitin'." As Sully began to remove his shirt Michaela suddenly brushed by him as she turned to walk away. "Where ya going?" Sully asked, reaching out to her.

"I was going to change into my swimming suit," Michaela smiled shyly, "you said earlier that you wanted me to wear it tonight."

"Wait, please," Sully asked softly, his voice melting Michaela's heart. Walking over to her he gently turned her around to face him and then reaching up he slowly began to unbutton her blouse. With his sensual smile he whispered close to her ear. "It's true, I do like seeing you in that suit, but I like you even better this way," he slowly removed her blouse and camisole and then sliding her skirts to the floor he took a small step back to gaze lovingly at her naked form.

"You're so beautiful, I love you so much," Sully's husky voice mirrored the desire in his eyes. "I love you too," Michaela panted as she drew his head down for a kiss. As the kiss ended Michaela reached down to unbutton Sully's buckskins and sliding them down over his hips they soon joined her clothes on the floor.

"Come on, let's get in," Sully spoke softly as he swept Michaela off of her feet and then gently set her down into the hot bubbling water.

"Oh, this is heavenly, Sully," Michaela whispered as they sat side by side, submerged in the hot, steamy water. Michaela leaned her head back against the tub and closing her eyes she let out a sigh. "This is so relaxing, I could fall asleep in here."

Suddenly Michaela's eyes shot open and she let out a slight gasp as she felt Sully's hand move provocatively up her inner thigh. "What are you doing?" she breathed heavily.

"Can't have you gettin' to relaxed and falling asleep on me," he whispered enticingly, "there's still so much more to do tonight."

"Oh there is," she perked up as his other hand gently cupped her soft breast, "and what might that be?" she smiled seductively.

"Well, we could watch something on that television box," Sully's hands continued their gentle caresses across her bare chest.

Michaela was warm, very warm, but now her whole body was tingling, "We could," she whispered huskily.

"Or we could read a book," Sully began to trail hot kisses up and down her arm.

Her breathing quickened and Michaela responded softly, "Yes, I suppose we could do that."

Smiling broadly at the effect he knew he was having on her he continued, "or we could go downstairs and try our hand at gambling."

"We could," Michaela murmured softly as she began to play with the hair on his chest, "but you know how I feel about gambling."

"You took a gamble with me," Sully blew into her ear.

Michaela shivered slightly and then gazing into his deep blue eyes she smiled lovingly, "and I won."

"I think we both won," Sully whispered in return and then without warning he suddenly grabbed Michaela and in one swift motion he lifted her onto his lap. "Sully!" she squealed playfully. Gazing into her sultry eyes he gently drew her close. "Or we could do this," he seized her lips and kissed her deeply, passionately.

Returning his kiss with enthusiasm, Michaela moaned in delight, "Yes this, definitely this."

Continue...