For personal and
select distribution only (c) by Lori Martin, December 2000
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"Did you sleep well?" Bobbie asked as Sully and Michaela, carrying a wide-eyed Katie, entered the hotel lobby. They had all agreed the previous night that they would meet in the lobby promptly at 9:00 a.m. The big game didn’t start until 7:00 p.m. that night so today they were going to go explore the city.
"Yes, we did," Sully answered as he cast a sly smile Michaela’s way, and then walking up to Bobby he whispered, "And the hot tub was great, just the thing Michaela needed last night."
Bobby cast him a knowing smile and then returned, "Yep, it definitely does set the mood." Just then Michaela and Gracie approached them and seeing the smug grin on their faces Gracie asked, "and what are you two talking about?" In unison they both replied, "Oh, nothing."
Just then Matthew and Brian walked up with Dotty not far behind. "Morning everyone," Matthew spoke as they joined them. "Good morning, Matthew," Michaela returned and then observing Brian’s red eyes she added, "I hope you boys didn’t stay out too late."
"Oh Ma," Brian scorned, "you don’t have to worry about us, we’re not little boys anymore."
"I’m sorry, Brian, it just.." Michaela began. Coming over to her Matthew put his arm around her shoulder. Giving her a tight squeeze he said, "It’s alright, Dr. Mike. We know you can’t help it," he said with a twinkle in his eyes, "and no, we didn’t stay out late."
"Matthew just kept me up all night is all," Brian explained, and then seeing the questioning look in Michaela’s eyes he added, "he couldn’t stop talking about Tracy all night."
Michaela flashed Sully a worried look, a look that said ‘I told you so’ and then turning back to Brian she said, "Is that right?"
"Yeah, he’s crazy about her ma," Brian began but as he looked past Michaela he could see Sully standing behind her barely shaking his head with a look of warning on his face.
Brian had seen that look on Sully’s face many times before and although he didn’t quite understand the reason, he knew enough to quickly change the subject. "Uh, there’s Colleen and Tracy now," Brian replied as he spied them walking through the doors.
After all of the greetings were finished, Sully looked at all of them and said, "Well, let’s get started, then. Where to first?"
Matthew stepped forward and slightly clearing his throat he looked at Michaela guiltily and then said, "Uh, Ma, Sully, if you don’t mind too much, the four of us thought we might take off on our own this morning and then maybe meet up with you later on."
"But Matthew…," Michaela protested but she was quickly cut off when Sully interrupted. "That will be fine, Matthew. How ‘bout we all meet back here for lunch."
Matthew looked at Sully and replied, "Thanks, Sully." And then turning to Michaela he said, "We’ll meet you back here around noon. Is that alright?" his eyes pleaded with Michaela.
"That will be fine Matthew," Michaela relented softly, "but please, stay together, this is a strange town."
"Thanks ma," he answered as he leaned over and gave her a kiss on the cheek, "we’ll see all of you later."
As they watched the four of them walk out the door, Michaela turned to Sully and retorted, "Sully, how could you let them go off on their own…" But it was Dotty who quickly interceded this time. "Ah, Michaela, you know how kids are. They don’t want to walk around with their parents all day."
Michaela looked at Dotty and attempted a smile. "I suppose you’re right," she conceded.
Sully walked over to Michaela and taking Katie from her arms, he said, "How about we all get going then." As they started to walk out the doors, Michaela stopped abruptly. Eyeing the revolving doors, she looked at the group and said firmly, "I’ll use the other door."
Bobbie and Gracie laughed aloud and turning to her, Bobbie remarked, "Ah Dr. Mike, you’re not very adventurous, are you?"
"Those things are dangerous," she quipped and then flinging her hair over her shoulder, she walked out the side door.
Sully couldn’t help but laugh as he followed his wife out the door. When they had arrived at the hotel yesterday Michaela had eyed the revolving doors with caution. But after a little coaxing from her friends she had entered the door with Sully close behind. She had made the mistake of stopping to turn around to speak to Sully when suddenly she was rammed from behind with a glass door, causing her to stumble into the door in front of her. According to Michaela she had barely escaped with her life and she was not about to go back through that door again.
It was now almost 1:00 p.m. and Michaela paced about the lobby nervously wringing her hands. Walking up to her, Sully placed his arm around her and said, "Michaela, why don’t you sit down. I’m sure they’re fine."
Michaela looked up at him, her brow creased with worry. "They should have been back an hour ago, Sully. Maybe something has happened to them."
They were once again gathered in the hotel lobby waiting for everyone to return for lunch. Matthew and Tracy had arrived right on time, but Colleen and Brian were missing.
"I’m sure they’re okay, Ma," Matthew tried to reassure her. "Maybe they just got lost."
"How could you even let them go off by themselves," Michaela turned on him angrily, "and after I explicitly told you to stay together."
"Michaela," Sully’s voice was gentle but firm as he lightly squeezed her shoulders, "It’s not Matthew’s fault. Brian and Colleen are old enough to go off on their own, so just calm down."
"Calm down?" Michaela’s voice was agitated, "How can you say that. You saw the city today, Sully. You know what goes on here. They may be in danger, or hurt somewhere." A sheen of tears glistened in her eyes.
Tracy quietly walked up behind Matthew and placing her hand on his arm she looked towards Michaela and said reassuringly, "Colleen knows her way around, Dr. Mike. They probably just got delayed or maybe they lost track of time."
"It’s not like Colleen to be late," Michaela retorted curtly as she coldly eyed Tracy. She still could not believe that Matthew and Tracy had decided to go off by themselves and leave Colleen and Brian to helplessly defend for themselves in this big and strange city. She knew she was being irrational, but the thought of her two children out there alone, in a big city frightened her.
Sully leaned down and lightly kissed the top of Michaela’s head and as he did so he heard Michaela’s stomach growl. "They’ll be fine, Michaela and I’m sure they’ll be back soon," he whispered soothingly. "Why don’t all of you go on to lunch. I’ll wait here for them."
"Come on, Dr. Mike," Gracie approached her and taking her by the elbow she began to lead her away. "We’ll go on into the restaurant and get a table. I’m sure they’ll be here any minute."
Reluctantly Michaela started to follow when suddenly she heard a familiar voice call out, "Ma!" Turning around she saw Colleen walking towards her with an apologetic look on her face.
"Where have you been, Colleen? Are you hurt? Did something happen?" Michaela rambled anxiously.
Colleen reached out to give her ma a hug. "We’re fine, Ma. I’m sorry we’re so late."
"Where’ve you been, Colleen?" Sully asked and then looking around he added, "and where’s Brian?"
"We’ll tell you all about it over lunch, okay. And Brian’s right outside," Colleen answered.
"Outside?" Matthew raised a questioning eyebrow, "What’s he doing outside?"
Colleen looked around at the group that had now gathered and then looking once more at Michaela she hesitated slightly, "Because he wasn’t sure how you’d react."
"How I’d react? What do you mean?" Michaela questioned.
Once again Colleen hesitated before speaking. "Well… he’s outside…. with someone."
"Someone?" Sully asked anxiously and then upon seeing the look of fright on Michaela’s face he said in a somewhat firmer voice, "Maybe you better explain, Colleen."
"Alright," Colleen answered quietly. "Brian’s outside with an elderly gentleman that we found on the street." Seeing the scornful look on her mother’s face she rushed, "He’s homeless Ma. He doesn’t have anywhere else to go and you know Brian, he couldn’t just leave him there."
"Colleen," Michaela’s tone had softened. "I know how much you and Brian want to help this man, but you can’t bring just anybody home," Michaela rebuffed, her maternal instincts running full force.
"Your ma’s right, Colleen," Sully placed him arm around Michaela, "you don’t know anything about this man."
Colleen looked at Sully and Michaela and rebuffed, "You wouldn’t say that if we were in Colorado Springs. You’ve always taught us to help others. You would never have turned someone in need away."
Now it was Dotty who stepped forward, holding a sleeping Katie in her arms. "Colleen, today there are places where people like him can go for food and shelter and maybe he’s chosen to live like that, maybe he doesn’t want help. Besides, your ma’s right, you shouldn’t bring a total stranger home with you."
"Colleen, I know you want to help him, but," Michaela began.
"Ma, please," Colleen interrupted, "can’t he at least have lunch with us?" and then as an afterthought she added, "I’ll pay for him."
Michaela glanced at Sully and after a slight nod of his head she turned to Colleen and answered, "Alright, I suppose it wouldn’t hurt to let him eat lunch with us. Please, go get Brian and have him bring him in."
With a big smile on her face Colleen leaned in and gave her mother a kiss on the cheek. "Thanks, Ma," Colleen beamed.
A few moments later Colleen returned with Brian close behind. As they approached the group Brian spoke softly, "I’m sorry if we worried you ma," and then turning to the rest of them he said, "Everyone, I’d like you to meet Lawrence Gray."
An elderly gentleman in his mid-sixties with graying hair slowly stepped forward. "It’s nice to meet all of you," he replied meekly.
"Larry, I’d like you to meet my parents," Brian said proudly. "This is my ma, Dr. Michaela Quinn and my pa, Sully." Sully extended his hand and Mr. Gray shook it weakly. "And this is my little sister Katie," Brian pointed to the sleeping child, now in her father’s arms.
After the remaining introductions were made it was Bobby who then spoke up. "Well, I don’t know about the rest of you, but I’m starving. And I don’t think Gracie can last much longer; after all it’s been what, a whole two hours since she’s had something to eat," he said teasingly.
"Yeah, I’m starving also," Matthew added.
"Well then, let’s go eat," Sully replied as he led the procession into the hotel dining room.
Sitting next to his ma at the table Brian had prepared himself for her numerous questions so he was quite shocked when she politely said, "He seems to be a very nice man." As he studied his ma’s face, he could tell that she wanted to ask more, but seeing Sully’s hand placed firmly on top of hers, and seeing the gentle squeeze he gave her, he sighed in relief.
Brian put his fork down and swallowed his food. "Ma," Brian began hesitantly, "I’ve asked Mr. Gray to stay with us here tonight," and then seeing the look on his ma’s face, he quickly added, "I’ve already spoken to Matthew about it on the way in here and he agreed."
"Brian! I know how much you want to help this man, but you just met him," Michaela exclaimed in a whisper.
"Ma," Brian pleaded softly, "he has no one."
"Well, where’s his family," Michaela asked in a low voice.
"His wife and only child were killed in a freak accident," Brian explained. "He went into a severe depression and then shortly after that he lost his business and his home. Now he has nothing and he’s been living on the streets ever since," Brian said sadly.
"I know what that can do to a man, losing your family like that," Sully sadly spoke from the heart. Michaela smiled at him warmly and lovingly squeezed his hand.
"Well, Sully, what do you think?" she asked softly, "should we allow him to stay with the boys?"
"Well, he seems harmless enough. I suppose it would be alright," Sully replied.
"Thanks, Ma," Brian beamed, "He wants to go with us tonight and watch the poker game. I told him maybe he’d bring us good luck."
"Maybe he will Brian," Michaela smiled warmly and then glancing down at the table she said, "Speaking of which, I wonder if Matthew is getting nervous at all about the game tonight."
Following Michaela’s gaze, Sully watched as Matthew and Tracy were deep in conversation, their heads bent close to each other, laughter bubbling from their voices. "I don’t think Matthew’s mind has been on tonight’s game too much. I think he’s been to preoccupied with other things," Sully smiled knowingly.
Looking into Michaela’s eyes, Sully immediately knew that he had said the wrong thing. Leaning closer he grasped her hand and squeezed it tightly and then he whispered into her ear, "We want him to be happy, right? That’s the most important thing."
Meeting Sully’s eyes, Michaela forced a smile. "You’re right, I know," Michaela’s voice quivered. Suddenly she reached for Katie who was now sitting happily on her father’s lap. "I’m not very hungry right now but I think Katie is. If you’ll excuse me I think I’ll take her up to our room and feed her."
Sully eyed Michaela closely and then seeing her rise, he softly replied, "Alright." Placing his hand on the small of her back he said softly, "I’ll be up shortly and I’ll bring you something to eat." Silently nodding her head, Michaela departed the dining room with Katie squeezed tightly against her chest.
The room was buzzing with excitement as men and women of all ages scurried about. At one end of the room a man was calling out numbers while another man could be heard shouting "place your bets". In the background the constant clanging of the slot machines was at times almost deafening.
It was now a quarter ‘til seven and Mr. Flicker was leading them into a large room off to one side. Michaela and Gracie, along with Colleen and Tracy, had decided to do a little shopping while the men went to the poker game. Dotty had opted to go with the men, being the reporter that she was. She figured there had to be a story in there somewhere.
As Mr. Flicker opened the door a tall, handsome man with long, wavy blond hair that reached past his shoulders strolled towards them. "Evenin’ gentlemen, ma’am," the man drawled as he extended his hand, "the name’s Frank, Frank Clawson. And you must be the Sully gang. Jack told me all about you."
Sully stepped forward and shook the man’s hand. "I’m Sully, and this is my son Matthew and my other son Brian and these are our friends Bobbie and Dotty.
Frank blew a puff of smoke from his cigar and then flicking it on the marble floor, he proceeded to stomp it out with his boot. "I hear you’re looking to win a lot of money, big money Jack tells me. So, who’s feeling lucky tonight," he asked as he surveyed them each in turn.
Matthew took a step forward and then looking Frank in the eye he said, "I am."
Frank let out a loud bellowing laugh and looking at Matthew he asked, "You, why you’re barely old enough to.."
"Yeah, yeah, I know, to shave," Matthew sarcastically finished the sentence for him, "Mr. Flicker already said the same thing. But I know enough. I’m gonna win that money tonight," he spoke with confidence.
"Well, if you say so, but I gotta warn ya, the competition will be really tough." Frank eyed Matthew warily, "This ain’t no game for little boys. These men won’t take pity on you."
"I don’t expect them to," Matthew retorted angrily, "and I’ve played with professionals before. I would have won too if he hadn’t of cheated."
"Well, there’ll be no cheating at my table," Frank assured them, "cause if they do…"
"What, you’ll shoot ‘em dead," Bobbie chimed in half-jokingly.
"No, there’s too much blood in doing that," Frank returned, his eyes twinkling, "but seriously though, we don’t allow any kind of cheating and if they do, they’ll have to answer to my boys." With that Frank pointed to several ‘large’ men standing around the room.
For the first time Frank noticed the elderly gentleman standing behind Brian. Looking him over he noticed the tattered clothes, the unkempt hair and that the man was in definite need of a shave. "What’s he doing here," Frank asked as he pointed to the man.
"He’s with me," Brian stated boldly, looking Frank directly in the eyes. After a moments pause, Frank turned away from Brian’s stare, "Well, he better not cause any problems and he better stay out of my way."
"He will," Brian spoke up, "but you don’t need to talk like he’s not in the room. He’s not deaf, he’s just homeless."
"Well, there’s a reason he’s that way," Frank looked disgustingly at the old man.
"Yes, there is," Brian returned, "And if you had any compassion for your fellow human being, you might take the time to find out."
"Well you just make sure he don’t bother my customers," Frank shot back, though the tone of his voice was somewhat softer. Looking around the room he then announced, "Well, since we’re all here now, let the games begin." And with that he led Matthew over to a round table where five other gentlemen were seated.
As Frank made the introductions, Matthew became aware of one of the gentlemen staring at him. As Matthew stared back at the man he had a strange feeling that he had met him before. But that was impossible, Matthew told himself, wasn’t it? But when Frank introduced the man as Julius Hoffman, a cold shiver ran down his spine.
Matthew turned around to look at Sully, who had the same bewildered look on his face. "It can’t be the same man, can it, Sully?" Brian asked in a whisper. Sully shrugged his shoulders, "I don’t know, Brian, I don’t see how it could be, but anymore just about anything could be possible."
It was Mr. Gray who leaned in and whispered, "I know that man. He’s a real sharp poker player, too sharp if you ask me. I know he cheats but no one has ever been able to find out how. He never loses, ever. You gotta be real careful of him."
"How do you know him," Brian asked out of curiosity.
"Ah, I used to play a little poker in my days. I learned from the best too," Mr. Gray replied and then nodding his head towards Mr. Hoffman he added, "He’ll be a tough one to beat."
Matthew swallowed over the lump in his throat as Sully patted him on the back. "You can do this, Matthew," Sully replied with confidence, "don’t let him get to ya."
"Yeah, Matthew, you’re just as good as any of them, we’re counting on you," Brian reassured him.
Two hours later as they were all taking a short break, Matthew was beaming as he sat at the table with a large pot of money in front of him. He had been winning easily for the last hour and his spirits were soaring. He had come to the table with $20,000 and now before him sat over $75,000. He never dreamed it could be this easy.
Bobbie slapped him on the back, "Nice work, Matthew, and in only two short hours."
"Keep it up, Matthew and we’ll be home before you know it," Brian added his encouragement. Sully, being a little more leery, placed his hand on Matthew’s shoulder and squeezed it lightly, "Good work, Matthew, but we still got a long way to go. Let’s just be cautious."
"No sweat, Sully, I’ll have us all home in no time," Matthew bragged, his confidence at an all new high. "You just watch, before the night’s over I’ll have all the money we need."
It was then that Mr. Gray quietly spoke up, "He’s just baiting you, making you think you can win," he now had everyone’s attention.
"Who?" Bobbie turned to ask.
"That Julius fellow, that’s who," Mr. Gray returned. "Mark my word, by the end of the night he’ll have you flat broke. I’ve seen him do it too many times before."
"Well, he’s not going to win this time," Matthew perked, "I’m on a winning streak and no one’s gonna stop me."
Sully eyed Matthew with concern, "Matthew, just don’t get too cocky, alright. Remember what happened last time."
"This ain’t like last time, Sully," Matthew retorted angrily, "What’s the matter, don’t you trust me now."
"Matthew, I didn’t mean it that way. Of course I trust you," Sully tried to amend. "If I didn’t I wouldn’t be letting you do this."
"Sorry, Sully, I didn’t mean to snap at you," Matthew apologized, "I guess I’m just a little edgy is all."
"I understand," Sully patted Matthew on the back, "so just take a deep breath and calm down. The night’s not over yet."
Just then Frank announced, "Alright boys, back to the tables."
The tension in the room was thick as Michaela paced frantically back and forth around their room. "I can’t believe it, you lost how much, $150,000. My god, Matthew, how did that happen?" her voice was shrill.
"Dr. Mike, I’m real sorry," Matthew pleaded for her forgiveness. "I was winning all night and I had a winning hand. I don’t know how it happened, but it did," he spoke in a somber voice, "I’m so sorry."
"Don’t go blaming yourself, Matthew. It ain’t your fault," Sully tried to console him. "I saw your hand and I would of done the same thing. That Julius fellow is a sly one, that’s for sure."
Michaela turned on Sully, rays of anger darting from her eyes. "Why didn’t you make him stop when he had already won $150,000. How could you let him lose that much money, Sully, and in all one game no less," in exasperation she threw her hands up into the air.
"Michaela," Sully replied calmly, "You know as well as I do that it still wasn’t enough. We didn’t have any choice but to go on."
Michaela tried to control the quiver in her voice as she spoke. "I told you this would happen, Sully. I told you all along this wasn’t a good idea, but I trusted you on this." She once again began to pace. "We should have just given the money we had to Mr. Weston, like I wanted to, but no, now we have nothing," Michaela continued to ramble on. "Now what are we going to do? All we have left is $5,000."
"Michaela," Sully slowly approached her, "please, just calm down. We’ll figure something out."
"Calm down?" Michaela asked incredulously, her volume increasing even more, "you want me to calm down? And how am I supposed to do that? Now we’re going to be left here forever. We may never see our friends again or our home again, my family in Boston…" her voice began to break.
"Michaela, please," Sully cautiously placed his hand on her shoulder and slowly turned her around, "don’t be upset, we’ll figure something out."
"And what would that be, Sully?" Michaela returned harshly, fire burning in her eyes, "huh, tell me, what are we going to do now?"
"Well, we still have $5,000 left," Sully proceeded hesitantly, shooting a glance at Matthew, "We’ll just go back to the tables tomorrow night with a new plan."
"Go back to the tables?" Michaela raised her voice in utter shock. "Are you crazy?"
"Ma, please," Matthew began but was quickly halted by the sound of his mother’s harsh voice.
"Stay out of this Matthew," Michaela snapped and then turning once again to Sully she continued, "I trusted you Sully. I was against this from the very beginning but I trusted you completely. And now look where it got us. Now how are we ever going to get home?" The look of disappointment in Michaela’s eyes tore at Sully’s heart.
"Michaela, I know it don’t look good right now, but I promise, we’ll make it through this," Sully took a hesitant step towards her.
"NO!" Michaela halted him in his tracks. "I’ve had enough of all of this and your promises," she screamed and then turning around she walked to the door. As she reached for the handle Sully quickly asked, "Where are you going?"
Turning on him, her eyes moist with tears, she answered coldly, "For a walk." "Michaela!" Sully called out as she slammed the door behind her.
Matthew and Sully stood in silence as they watched Michaela walk out the door. Sully cringed as she slammed the door in anger. Looking towards Matthew he shrugged his shoulders and said sarcastically, "Well, that went well, don’t you think?"
Matthew looked at Sully and in reply he asked, "Aren’t you going after her?"
"No, not right now," Sully glanced at the closed door. "I think she needs some time to herself right now, some time to cool off."
"I’ve never seen her so angry before, Sully. I’m really sorry," Matthew replied guiltily.
"Like I said before, Matthew, it wasn’t your fault, and your ma will come around once she cools off," Sully replied hopefully.
"If you want me to stay here, I will," Matthew turned to look at his pa. "I can tell Brian to go ahead and take the girls home."
"No, that’s alright, Matthew. Tracy and Colleen are downstairs waiting for you. You boys go ahead and take them home. I’ll be fine," and then seeing the concerned look on his face, Sully added, "your ma will be fine too."
"Well, if your sure," Matthew began. "I’m sure, Matthew," Sully reiterated. "Now, go on, take your girl home," he smiled knowingly at Matthew.
"Thanks, Sully," Matthew returned his smile.
"Oh, Matthew," Sully stopped him as he reached the door, "what about Brian’s friend, Mr. Gray, is he staying with you again tonight?"
"No, I don’t think so," Matthew replied, "Right after the game was over he told Brian he had an idea for tomorrow’s game and that he’d see us before the game."
"An idea?" Sully’s look was puzzled.
Matthew shrugged his shoulders, "That’s all Brian said, but right about now any ideas will do."
"That’s an understatement," Sully returned dryly as he once again glanced at the closed door. "Well then, I’ll see you in the morning. Have a nice time," Sully smiled.
As Colleen and Brian walked a few paces ahead of them, Matthew reached down and took Tracy’s hand in his. Walking hand in hand, they were both lost in their own thoughts. Breaking the silence, Tracy began, "I don’t think your ma likes me very much."
"Why do you say that," Matthew asked surprised.
"Oh, I don’t know, maybe it’s just a feeling, but today while we were shopping she just didn’t seem to warm up to me at all. It was like she wanted to keep me at a distance or something," Tracy tried to explain.
"I don’t think it’s you, Tracy. I think it’s just this whole situation, and it’s got her scared," Matthew returned warmly. "Just give her time, she’ll end up loving you just like I do." There, he said it. He loved her.
Tracy stopped in her tracks. Slowing turning to face Matthew, she looked up into his eyes and asked softly, "What did you say?"
Clasping her hand even tighter, Matthew looked her in the eyes and repeated, "I said I love you Tracy."
"Oh, Matthew, I love you too." Tracy gushed. "I know it’s awfully sudden, but I’ve never felt this way about anyone before. I can’t bear the thought of you leaving."
"I know," Matthew answered softly, "and I’ve been thinking about that." Taking both of her hands in his, he lifted them to his lips and kissed them gently. "I’m gonna stay here, with you," Matthew blurted.
Shock reigned on Tracy’s face. "But Matthew, what about your family, your friends, your home?"
Looking deep into her eyes, he spoke from the heart, "I want you to be my family, my friend, and I want to make my home here with you."
"I don’t know what to say, Matthew," Tracy returned as she lowered her eyes to the ground.
Lifting her chin with his forefinger, Matthew gently brushed her lips with his. "Say yes, say you’ll marry me."
"Yes, oh yes, I’ll marry you," Tracy beamed. "Oh, Matthew, I want to make you so happy," she cried tears of joy.
"Just saying yes has already made me happier than you could ever know," Matthew replied, tears in his eyes as well. "Come on, we’d better catch up with Colleen and Brian."
"Should we tell them?" Tracy asked as they hurried along.
Matthew stopped once again and gently turning Tracy to face him, he said, "Look Tracy, I don’t think we should say anything to anyone just yet, especially Dr. Mike." Seeing the puzzled look on Tracy’s face he tried to explain, "Ever since we met on the beach that day, Dr. Mike’s been so afraid that something, or someone, would keep me from going back to Colorado Springs."
"I’ll do whatever you think is best, Matthew, but when do you think we should tell them?" she asked. "We can’t very well wait until the last minute and then announce something like this. It wouldn’t be fair to your family."
"You’re right, but let’s at least wait until after the outcome of tomorrow’s game," Matthew leaned down and lightly kissed her cheek. "Dr. Mike’s not exactly in the best of moods right now," Matthew replied.
"Was she upset over the game?" Tracy asked curiously.
"That’s a mild way to put it," Matthew smiled crookedly.
"What will happen if you don’t return," Tracy wondered, their hands swinging together in perfect synch.
"No one really knows for sure," Matthew shrugged his shoulders. "That’s something we’ll have to ask Dancing Cloud when we see him."
Colleen glanced over her shoulder at Matthew and smiled. Nudging Brian with her elbow she said, "I think Matthew’s falling in love."
"Yeah, I think your right," Brian returned. "But I don’t think Ma’s gonna be very happy about it." He turned to look at Matthew just as he was placing a kiss on Tracy’s cheek. "What if he decides to stay here, Colleen?" Brian asked in a stressed voice.
Shaking her head, Colleen answered, "I don’t know, Brian. I guess we’ll just have to wait and see. Maybe Dancing Cloud will be able to tell us more." After a moments silence Colleen turned to Brian and asked, "So, what about you Brian? Have you thought about staying here?"
"Yeah, I thought about it, but just briefly," Brian answered and then seeing the questioning look on Colleen’s face he continued, "I kinda like our simple life in Colorado Springs. Everybody looks out for each another, they care about one another. It’s almost as if everyone is one big family. Here, well I don’t know, it just seems that everybody only thinks about themselves."
"Yeah, I know what you mean," Colleen agreed. "Just look at that homeless place Mr. Gray took us to yesterday. It’s hard to believe that so many people are all alone, with no one to care about them, to love them."
"I can’t ever imagine that in Colorado Springs," Brian’s mood was somber. "So what about you, Colleen, have you thought about staying here? I mean there’s so many opportunities in medicine here."
"You’re right, Brian, there is. It’s unbelievable how far they’ve come in terms of medicine in the last hundred years." Colleen paused momentarily to collect her thoughts. "I don’t truthfully know what I’m going to do yet." Seeing the distressed look on Brian’s face she quickly added, "but I do know that each time I think about staying here, somehow my thoughts always go back to Colorado Springs," and then shyly she added, "and Andrew."
Brian smiled at his big sister and then hooking his arm over hers he said, "Well, it looks like it might be love that keeps Matthew here and love that takes you home. I do know one thing, though," Brian stated.
"What’s that?" Colleen answered as she tried to keep in step with him.
"I don’t think I wanna be around when Matthew tells Ma that he’s staying here," Brian’s lips turned up in a smile.
Colleen returned his smile, her eyes twinkling, "Oh, I don’t know. Maybe Dr. Mike will surprise all of us, maybe she’ll just give Matthew her blessing and be real calm about the whole thing."
Brian halted in his steps and then turning his head to look at Colleen he stifled his laugh, "Are you sure we’re talking about the same Dr. Mike?" As their eyes met in unison they both burst out laughing.
Matthew wiped the sleep from his eyes and quickly sat up in bed. There it was again, someone was pounding at their door. Getting out of bed he quickly threw his pants on and walked to the door. By now Brian was also sitting up in bed as the persistent knocking grew louder. Throwing open the door, Matthew was surprised to find Sully standing there with Katie asleep in his arms.
"Sully, what’s wrong?" Matthew asked frantically as he peered into the hallway.
"It’s your ma," Sully’s voice was full of worry, "she ain’t come back yet and I’m getting real worried."
"She isn’t back yet?" Matthew asked in alarm as he glanced at the clock on the nightstand, "it’s almost midnight, Sully."
"I know, and it ain’t like her to leave like that, especially for so long." He stepped into the room to face his two sons. "I need for you to watch Katie for me. I’m gonna go look for her."
Reaching for Katie, Matthew answered, "Sure thing, Sully. You just go find ma, alright," the concern in Matthew’s voice was evident.
"Where do you think she went?" Brian asked anxiously as he climbed out of bed.
"I’m sure she wouldn’t have gone far," Sully tried to remain calm, "I’ll check the lobby first and then ask around if anyone’s seen her."
"Alright," Matthew replied, "Katie will be fine with us. You just go find her. I know how upset she was when she left."
"Thanks, guys," Sully replied as he walked hurriedly out of the room.
The hotel lobby was quiet when Sully descended the stairs. His eyes quickly scanned the area but to his dismay he didn’t see Michaela anywhere in sight. Walking up to the hotel desk, he asked the night clerk on duty, "Excuse me, I’m looking for someone, my wife." The man stared blankly back at him. "She has long brown hair, petite build," Sully described his wife, "very beautiful," he added with a smile, "have you seen her?"
As Sully had done before, the clerk quickly scanned the lobby and then pointed to a dark secluded corner of the room. Following the man’s finger, Sully finally spotted a small form slumped in an overstuffed chair. "Thank you," Sully spoke quietly as he turned towards his wife.
Sully approached the chair with caution, uncertain of his wife’s present mood. As he reached the chair he noticed that Michaela was staring blankly off into space, so deep in thought that she hadn’t even noticed that he was now standing in front of her. Kneeling down, he tentatively placed a hand on her knee. Startled, Michaela jumped slightly, blinking her eyes, but when she recognized Sully standing before her she quickly lowered her eyes to the floor.
"Michaela," his voice was but a mere whisper, "it’s late, past midnight," but still no response from her. "I was getting worried," Sully continued, "have you been down here all night?"
Finally Michaela looked up at Sully, her eyes puffy and red. "No," she whispered, "I walked around most of the night."
"By yourself?" he asked incredulously, "Michaela, you shouldn’t be walking around this strange town at night all alone. What if something would have happened to you?" his voice raised slightly in anger.
"Nothing happened to me so you can stop your yelling," she rebuffed and then seeing the hurt look in his eyes she quickly lowered her eyes to the floor.
"I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to raise my voice but I was worried about you," his voice was now gentle and full of love. Reaching out he gently lifted her chin so that their eyes met. "Why didn’t you come back up to our room?" Sully questioned, his eyes searching hers.
"I don’t know," Michaela stammered, her voice once again quivering.
"Hey," Sully reached for her, "everything will be okay, Michaela, I promise."
Michaela held out her arm to keep their distance, "Stop it! Just stop saying that," Michaela quietly screeched. Startled by her reaction, Sully gently implored, "Stop saying what?"
"Stop saying that everything will be alright. You can’t promise that. You don’t know anymore than I do if we’ll ever get back," Michaela cried softly, tears once again streaming down her cheeks.
"You’re right, I don’t," he replied meekly, unable to find the words to comfort his wife. "I’m sorry, I’m sorry about the game tonight, I’m sorry about…"
"None of this is your fault, Sully," Michaela interrupted, "and I’m not angry at you," her voice became softer. Now it was her turn to apologize and reaching to take his hand she said, "I’m sorry for taking my anger out on you and Matthew earlier."
"That’s alright," Sully raised her hand to his lips and kissed it.
"It’s just that I feel so.. so.." Michaela hesitated.
"So what?" Sully’s eyes silently encouraged her.
"I don’t know," her lower lip trembled, "It’s just that I may never see our home again, our friends, my family in Boston," and then looking into Sully’s eyes, she whispered, "I’m so frightened Sully, why is all of this happening?" Sully held out his arms and this time Michaela willingly went to him.
As he held her tightly and soothingly rubbed her back, Sully whispered, "I don’t know Michaela, maybe we were brought here for a purpose, maybe Dancing Cloud will be able to tell us more. But I do know one thing for certain," he pulled back slightly to look into her eyes. "What’s that?" Michaela sniffled. "No matter what happens we still got each other, right?" Sully reaffirmed.
Swiping at a tear she answered, "Absolutely. And we have all of our children here also." Sully leaned in and lightly brushed her lips. "So where do we go from here," Michaela asked, squeezing his hand tightly, "we only have $5,000 left."
"Michaela," Sully began hesitantly, "I know how you feel about gambling, but we don’t really have any other choice but to go back to the tables tomorrow night," Sully explained, "We’ve come to far to turn back now."
"But what will happen if Matthew loses again?" Michaela asked as she nervously wrung her hands.
"Let’s not think about that now, okay," Sully grasped her hands to still them. "Mr. Gray said he had a plan and that he would meet us back here tomorrow," Sully replied.
"Mr. Gray, the homeless man?" Michaela queried, "we’re going to put our trust in him, our future depends on a complete stranger?" she was skeptical.
"We’ve been puttin’ our trust in strangers ever since we got here, Michaela," Sully replied softly.
"I suppose you’re right," she answered in resignation.
"Michaela," Sully suddenly had an idea, "Why don’t you come to the game with us tomorrow night? You could be our good luck charm," he added as she was about to protest.
"I don’t know, Sully," Michaela was unsure, "and I couldn’t take Katie with me."
"Michaela, please," Sully leaned in to lightly kiss her neck, "I’m sure we could find someone to watch Katie for a short time," Sully could tell by the look on Michaela’s face that she was wavering. Again Sully began to place little kisses on her neck, slowly moving down to her shoulder. "Mr. Flicker said they have a real good nursery here and the people are trained to care for children. She’ll be alright for a short time, Michaela," he pleaded.
"Well, I suppose for just a little while," Michaela gasped as Sully continued to kiss her, "and I can always go check on her, can’t I?" Michaela was slowly coming around.
"Sure ya can," Sully pulled back slightly to lovingly caress her cheek, "now how about we go on back up to our room. It’s getting awfully late," he raised his eyebrow in query.
"Alright," Michaela answered as she let Sully help her to her feet. As Sully slid his arm around her waist, Michaela looked at Sully and asked, "By the way, where is Katie?"
"She’s with Matthew and Brian, in their room. We’d better stop there and let them know you’re alright," Sully cast her a reprimanding look, "they were worried about ya also."
"I’m sorry," she answered sheepishly.
"That’s alright," Sully smiled softly and then seeing Michaela stifle a yawn, he added, "come on, let’s go up to bed."
Matthew paced nervously around the room, glancing often at the door. "Where is he, Brian? He said he’d be here," Matthew asked frantically.
"I don’t know, Matthew," Brian signed as he looked helplessly around the room, "He told me he’d be here before the game started. Maybe he got stuck in traffic or something else held him up," Brian knew his excuses sounded lame, even to him.
Matthew looked once again at the clock on the wall. "The game starts in fifteen minutes and we still don’t have any kind of plan." Matthew looked helplessly around the room at his family and friends. "I was really counting on Mr. Gray to come through for us. I sure as hell don’t have any plan," Matthew said in frustration.
"Matthew, watch your language." Michaela chastised gently.
"What am I going to do, Sully," Matthew asked with uncertainty, "We only got $5,000. I can’t possibly win a half-million dollars with just that."
"Sure ya can, Matthew," Sully looked at Matthew convincingly. "You just have to have confidence is all."
"I just don’t want to let everyone down," Matthew looked around at the small group standing before him.
"You can do this, Matthew," Tracy whispered close to his ear, giving his arm a loving squeeze, "I know you can."
"Thanks, Tracy," Matthew turned to look into her eyes, "that really means a lot to me," and then with his lips close to her ear he whispered, "I love you."
Michaela watched as Matthew and Tracy exchanged whispers. She could see the broad smile on Matthew’s face and she saw him mouth the words "I love you". Michaela swallowed over the lump in her throat and taking a deep breath she looked at Matthew and said, "You won’t disappoint us, Matthew. No matter what the outcome of the game is. We know you’ll do your best."
"Thanks, ma," Matthew smiled, "I really appreciate that, especially coming from you. I know what it took for you to come and watch this today."
Michaela smiled demurely at Sully, "Well, some people can be very persuasive."
Just then they heard a commotion outside the room. A deep voice could be heard saying, "You can’t go in there without an invitation," followed by another voice shouting, "I have an invitation, now get out of my way." Suddenly they saw Mr. Gray pushing through the crowd, followed by a rather tall, dark haired gentlemen.
Brian rushed up to him, "Mr. Gray, where’ve you been. We were beginning to think you weren’t going to come."
"It just took longer than I thought," Lawrence Gray answered and then turning to the man standing beside him, he said, "Everyone, I’d like you to meet Rev. Timothy Jackson. He’s going to win the money for you."
All eyes were now on the two men. As the taller gentlemen stepped forward, a gasp could be heard from Michaela and Gracie as they all noticed that he was dressed in black with a white collar around his neck. "But he’s a man of the cloth," Michaela was horrified.
A wry smile crossed Mr. Gray’s lips. "Now don’t go getting all worked up, ma’am, he’s not really a reverend." He looked around the room at the many pairs of eyes now staring at him, "He’s an actor. He’s performing in a play on the other side of town and he’s just playing a reverend."
A barely audible sigh escaped Michaela’s lips, "Oh," she whispered.
"What makes you think he can win the money for us," Matthew stepped forward, his voice full of skepticism.
"Well, for one thing," Mr. Gray stood with his thumbs in his pockets, "he used to be a professional gambler, and for another, he’s the only one to ever beat Julius at his own game."
"You’ve played against Julius Hoffman before?" Sully asked in astonishment.
"Yes sir, I did. And I beat him," the man answered triumphantly.
"Why aren’t you playing anymore if you were so good?" Brian wondered.
"It was a personal decision I made," he paused to reflect, "a promise I made to my wife right before she died."
"That’s what took me so long to get here," Mr. Gray explained his tardiness. "It took quite a bit of convincing on my part to get Mr. Jackson to come here today."
"We’re very grateful to you, Mr. Jackson. Do you really think you can win us the money?" Michaela asked hopefully.
"Well, it may be somewhat difficult, what with only $5,000 left. But I will try my best. Mr. Gray explained your ‘delicate’ situation to me."
"And you believed him?" Bobbie asked in wonder.
"Larry has never lied to me before so I saw no reason to disbelieve him now," Mr. Jackson replied as he looked at Mr. Gray with a deep respect.
"So what made you change your mind?" Tracy peered around Matthew’s shoulder.
"Well, young lady, Mr. Gray had a very compelling case and also, I owe him. He saved my life once," Timothy Jackson replied.
"Well, like my wife said," Sully patted the man on the shoulder, "we’re real grateful that you’re doing this for us," and then looking around the room at all of their new friends he said, "we’re thankful for all of ya."
"All right gentlemen, let’s get this game started," Frank Clawson bellowed out above the noise in the room.
"Mr. Clawson," Sully halted the man, "there’s been a slight change. Mr. Jackson is going to be playing our hand for us tonight. Any objections?"
Mr. Clawson turned to the men now sitting around the table. Four of the men seated shook their heads but as Frank’s gaze fell to Mr. Julius Hoffman, there was a sudden silence. "No rule against that," Frank stared hard at Mr. Hoffman, daring him to object.
As Timothy took the seat once occupied by Matthew, he turned to Frank and said, "I’d also like to start this game with a new deck of cards, one that hasn’t been opened."
"Or tampered with," Matthew muttered under his breath as he stared coldly at Julius.
"That sounds fair enough," Frank replied, "I got a brand new deck, never been opened. I’ll go get it right now."
As time passed by, the winnings flowed back and forth between the two men. After only one short hour there were now only two of them left, Julius Hoffman and Timothy Jackson. Mr. Hoffman smiled wickedly at Timothy and with a sly grin on his face he said, "Well Timothy, it looks like it’s just the two of us. Just like old times, huh?"
Timothy looked Julius squarely in the eye and replied with confidence, "Yep, that’s right, Julius, just like old times," he paused and then added, "and I’m gonna win, just like old times."
Julius looked at Timothy and with a sly grin he said, "Well, if you’re so sure of yourself, let’s end it right now. The pot’s worth well over a half million dollars as it stands." Julius let his eyes roam around the room and with a smug confidence he said, "So, I call your $50,000 and I raise you… ," he paused as he watched the expression on the faces around him and then throwing his entire pile of chips into the pot he said, "I’ll raise you $350,000."
There were gasps all around as everyone’s eyes turned to Timothy. As he
mentally counted his chips before him, he quickly looked over his shoulder at
Matthew. "I only have $349,000," he sounded defeated.
"Well then," Julius smiled crookedly, "it looks like the pot’s mine, doesn’t it." As he reached for the pile of chips on the table, Matthew suddenly called out, "Wait!" All eyes were now focused on him. Reaching deep into his pocket he pulled out a small silver object and threw it on the table, "Will this cover it."
Michaela’s breath caught in her throat and she quickly glanced at Sully. He too had recognized the object. It was her engagement ring from David, the one she had given to Matthew when he and Ingrid had become engaged. Matthew had gambled with the ring before, and that time he had lost it but Sully had later bought it back. Now he was gambling with it once again.
With Sully’s hand firmly on her arm, Michaela held her tongue. As she looked at Matthew, her emotions clearly written on her face, Matthew quickly turned away. "After all," he thought, "the ring’s mine." And then glancing at Tracy, his thoughts continued, "and now I don’t need it anymore. I’ve found love again, and besides, I’m not going to lose it."
Mr. Hoffman picked up the ring and carefully turned it around in his hand. As he eyed it closely he remarked, "This is a nice piece of jewelry for its time," his eyes met Matthew’s, "I’ve only seen a piece as fine as this once before, a long time ago."
Matthew looked at Julius in disbelief, "Could this really be the same man?" Matthew wondered to himself, "How is that possible?" But he was quickly brought out of his reverie when Julius exclaimed, "Yeah, this will cover it," and he proceeded to throw the ring onto the pile.
"Well, Rev…," he let the word roll mockingly off his tongue, "let’s see if you can beat this," Julius replied smugly and then looking around the room, all eyes glued to the table, he neatly laid out his hand. "Four queens and a nine," he said self-righteously.
There were gasps heard all around the room and Michaela suddenly felt weak in the knees. Colleen walked up to stand beside her and grasping Michaela’s arm she whispered, "I can’t bear to watch, Ma. Tell me when it’s over." Michaela squeezed Colleen’s arm lightly and then taking a deep breath, she turned her attention to Mr. Jackson who was sitting calmly at the table, his expression unreadable.
"Well, Mr. Jackson," Frank finally spoke up, breaking the heavy tension in the room, "it’s your move."
Slowly Mr. Jackson moved his eyes over the room. When he was certain that he had everyone’s complete attention, ever so slowly he began to lay his cards face-up on the table.
Michaela watched as if in slow motion Mr. Jackson spread his cards on the table. Holding her breath, she closed her eyes in anticipation. Suddenly her eyes popped open when she heard him exclaim, "Three kings and a 10." His smile broadened and his eyes twinkled in delight and glancing around the room he saw the look of relief on the faces around him.
"Thank God," Michaela breathed a sigh of relief. There were shouts of joy all around but their joy was quickly brought to a halt when they suddenly heard Julius’ boisterous voice, "That’s impossible, I dealt you…, I mean that can’t be," he jumped up from the table, staring at Timothy with demon eyes, "you cheated," he accused loudly.
Frank quickly snapped his fingers and his ‘men’ hurried over to the table. Calmly Timothy stood up to face his opponent. "Did anyone here see me cheat? Did you see me cheat?" Timothy looked around the room but everyone was shaking their head. "No, Mr. Hoffman," Timothy eyed him coldly, "I simply beat you at your own game."
Dotty stepped forward with her notepad in hand. "Mr. Hoffman, I’m a journalist from the Gazette and I’m writing an article about this high stakes poker game. I’m sure you wouldn’t want to be known as a sore loser, now would you? You’d never be able to show your face at a poker table again."
Julius leered at Dotty and then turning to Timothy he was about to lunge at him when out of the corner of his eye he saw two large men approach him. Thinking better of it, he roughly pushed his chair back from the table and standing up he muttered under his breath and stormed out the room.
Frank watched as Julius stormed out and then beckoning his men he spoke in just a whisper, "Make sure he leaves the premises and doesn’t cause any trouble."
Finally the tension left the room and congratulations were extended from everyone around. Scooping up the pile of chips and picking up the engagement ring, Mr. Jackson exclaimed, "Boy that felt good," and then turning to Sully he said, "Here is your money, sir, over 1 million dollars."
Sully stepped up to Timothy and replied, "Please, call me Sully. I don’t know how we can ever thank you enough. But we only need half of that to get us back. The rest is rightfully yours."
"No, I insist, the money belongs to you," Timothy returned, "please, give it to charity or to whomever you think is worthy of it."
Michaela stepped forward and putting her arm through Sully’s she looked at Timothy and said, "Please then, would you at least let us treat you to a late dinner. It’s the least we can do."
"That would be acceptable, ma’am," Timothy nodded his head. "With all of the excitement tonight I did work up an appetite.
"Yeah, me too," Gracie spoke and everyone turned their eyes on her and began to laugh.
"When aren’t you hungry woman," Bobbie teased. "I’m sure glad this baby is due shortly or else you’ll be as big as a house," he lovingly rubbed her stomach.
Swatting at his arm, Gracie exclaimed, "That just means there’s more of me to love, right?" the look she shot him dared him to respond.
Gradually everyone began to empty the room. Sully caught Matthew as he was about to leave and pulling him off to one side he slid the engagement ring back into Matthew’s hand. "I thought you might like to have this back."
Matthew clutched the ring in the palm of his hand and then said, "Thanks Sully, again. But I think the ring should rightfully go back to Dr. Mike, if you don’t mind that is. I don’t really need it anymore." Matthew glanced at Tracy who was standing with Colleen by the door and seeing the questioning look on Sully’s face he tried to explain, "I’ll always love Ingrid and she’ll always hold a special place in my heart. But like you’ve said before Sully, it’s time to move on. And I’ve found someone who I want to spend the rest of my life with."
Sully smiled at Matthew and patted him warmly on the back, "I understand, Matthew." And then pausing a moment he looked into Matthew’s eyes and asked, "So does this mean you’re not going to return home with us?"
Matthew hesitated a moment before answering, but deciding that honesty would be the best thing he replied, "I’ve asked Tracy to marry me and she said yes." Matthew saw the look of shock on Sully’s face. "Look Sully, I know it’s sudden but I love Tracy and she loves me. I’ve never been more sure about anything. And I know how Dr. Mike feels about me staying here, but this is something that I have to do for myself. I hope that you can understand that," he pleaded with his eyes.
"I do understand, Matthew," Sully answered sincerely, "and I also know that if you’re lucky enough to get a second chance at love, that you gotta take it. That’s what I did, and I’ve never regretted it one bit." Sully smiled as he remembered those early years with Michaela. "And as for your ma, yeah, she’ll be upset, but we both want you to be happy Matthew, and no matter what, we’ll both support you in whatever decision you make."
"Thanks Sully, that really means a lot to me." Matthew paused before speaking again, "Uh, Sully, do you think maybe you could break it to Dr. Mike, real easy I mean."
"Matthew, I’m not the one to be telling her that. That’s something you and Tracy need to tell her together," Sully answered.
"Yeah, you’re right I know, but it couldn’t hurt to ask," he smiled wanly at Sully.
"I think you should tell her soon, Matthew. We’re leaving in the morning for Montana," Sully told him.
"You’re right, I know. I’ll.., we’ll tell her after dinner tonight," Matthew replied. "But Sully, if you wouldn’t mind, Tracy and I have already discussed it and we want to go to Montana with you and then of course we’ll want to see everyone off."
"I’m glad to hear that," Sully answered. "And of course you know your ma will want to be with you for as long as possible. This won’t be easy for any of us."
Matthew swallowed over the lump in his throat, "No, it won’t," his voice cracked slightly. And then seeing Michaela walk towards them, Sully put his arm around Matthew’s shoulder and said, "Come on, the others are waiting for us."
"What were you two talking about?" Michaela inquired as she joined the two men.
Exchanging a quick glance, Sully replied, "Oh, not much. I was just giving Matthew back the engagement ring, but he wants you to have it back instead."
"Oh?" she glanced at Matthew but it was Sully who quickly spoke up, "Matthew just thought that it was time to return the ring to its rightful owner. I told him you wouldn’t object."
"Alright," she took the ring from Sully and eyeing Matthew closely she replied, "if that’s what he wants." Sully could see the emotions flash across Michaela’s face, but he was thankful that she didn’t pursue it any further. Squeezing her hand he exclaimed, "I’m starving, let’s go eat. We have a lot to celebrate tonight."
Turning her full attention to Sully, she smiled, "Yes, we do. Just think Sully, in just a few more days we’ll be home."
"Home," Sully spoke quietly, "it does sound good, doesn’t it?" and then slipping his arm around her waist they joined the others for a celebration dinner.