Ultimate Freedom Mimi Barbour

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 Ultimate Freedom
Land of the Free Trilogy - Book #3
By
Mimi Barbour
NYT Bestselling author
Copyright 2024

Description:
Conquering conflicts and battles, Demi and her Alaskan family face more unexpected adventures. Battling for her
life is just the beginning. Before she has a chance to catch her breath, she’s deep in a fight for her best friend’s happiness.
Nothing comes easy in this wild country. Even with the support of the handsome gold prospector, her new brother,
an orphan, and the wolf who shadows her, life in the North continues to challenge her every step of the way.
If she fights with everything in her, will she finally find the peaceful existence she craves?
Table of Contents:

Ultimate Freedom
Description:

Table of Contents:

Prologue – the final chapter of Unforgettable Freedom – Book #2

Chapter One

Chapter Two
Chapter Three

Chapter Four

Chapter Five

Chapter Six
Chapter Seven

Chapter Eight

Chapter Nine

Chapter Ten
Chapter Eleven

Chapter Twelve
Chapter Thirteen

Chapter Fourteen
Chapter Fifteen

Chapter Sixteen
Chapter Seventeen

Chapter Eighteen
Chapter Nineteen

Chapter Twenty
Chapter Twenty-one

Chapter Twenty-two
Chapter Twenty-three

Chapter Twenty-four
Chapter Twenty-five

Chapter Twenty-six
Chapter Twenty-seven

Chapter Twenty-eight
Chapter Twenty-nine
Chapter Thirty

Chapter Thirty-one
Chapter Thirty-two

Chapter Thirty-three
Chapter Thirty-four

Chapter Thirty-five
Chapter Thirty-six

Chapter Thirty-seven
Prologue and Chapter One – Special Agent Isabella

Afterword:

Also author of:

About the author, Mimi Barbour:

Contact me:
Prologue – the final chapter of Unforgettable Freedom – Book
#2
Demi drove toward her home, watching carefully for any wildlife on the road. Often, they had close calls with
deer, bears, wolves, and even rabbits that paid no attention to the noisy vehicles whooshing down on them.
When she saw the unidentified truck halfway in the snowbank on the side of the road, she instantly thought to keep
driving. Until a man jumped out in front of her vehicle with his gun pointed toward her. Then she stopped.
Christ, she’d seen that face before. She knew without a doubt, this was Philip Crane, the nutjob out to kill Loretta
Hillside. How the hell did he find their lane? Unless you knew exactly where to turn off the highway, most people would just
drive past.
Could he have followed Norrie and Loretta here? A rush of thankfulness overrode her fear for as long as it took the
man to get into the truck with her. As happy as she was to imagine Norrie being alive, her own situation had suddenly become
dire.
“What do you want? What’s your problem?”
“Shut up. Keep driving. There’s a woman near here who’s about to get what she has coming to her. I intend to find
her.”
“Look, I don’t know what your beef is with her, but it’s none of my business. You’re a strang—”
“I said, shut up. Just do as you’re told, and you won’t get hurt. Drive.” He shoved his gun into her side to convince
her he meant business.
Demi put the truck into gear and started slowly forward, hoping to see her wolf in the distance. Nito always
seemed to know when she arrived and would often be waiting for her at the cabin. She prayed this time he’d show up.
“Pull in front. No one will suspect anything’s wrong when they see your vehicle.”
Demi didn’t argue. But she knew damned well that anyone who knew her would know that she’d never drive to the
front of the cabin. Even though Whit had cleared a narrow area there, mainly for them to be able to walk from the parking spots
to the front door easily, they’d never gotten in the habit of driving there.
“Climb over me and go out this door. I want them to see you first.”
“No way. I don’t want to be anywhere near you.”
“Don’t mess with me, lady. If I have to shoot you, I won’t hesitate. I’ve come this far to put a bullet in Alex, so
killing one more won’t make a whole lot of difference.”
“Who’s Alex? I have no idea who you’re talking about.”
“Your precious doctor. Quit stalling. Out.”
Hearing the madness in his voice, Demi decided that she’d have more luck making a move when their proximity
wasn’t so close. Doing as he ordered, Demi shivered with revulsion. Being within inches of the clean-shaven, white-haired
aristocratic made bile gather in her dry throat.
She scrambled over him… thinking to accidently stumble and shove her elbow into his groin. But when he held the
gun barrel against her temple, she changed her mind. Scanning the area, praying to see Nito, she slowly descended from the
truck.
There. The clever, beautiful bastard. God she loved that animal.
She watched him run like the wind in their direction, silent yet deadly.
“Stop here.” Philip shoved her forward slightly to give him room to get out himself.
Knowing Nito was only seconds away, she decided to make her move. Ramming herself backward, his body
between her and the truck, she then tried to get out of the wolf’s way. Unfortunately, when the bullet pierced her back, she had
no idea if her strategy worked.
Norrie and Loretta saw the raging wolf fly through the air to take down the killer. They waited as the vicious
animal went for the throat… only to get the next bullet.
Seeing Philip throw off the animal’s carcass, Norrie aimed Harold’s rifle and pulled the trigger.
Chapter One
“Demi.” Norrie’s scream tore through the air. Dropping the rifle she’d used to shoot the man who’d put a bullet in
her best friend, she ran to the lifeless body only to be pushed aside by Dr. Lexie Bower.
“Let me examine her. You go check on Philip. See if he’s alive.”
“God help me, I hope he’s dead. Bastard shot my Demi. He’s a madman.”
“Go. Rotten as he is, he’s a human being.”
Norrie went to where the body of her nemesis lay in the snow, blood seeping all around him. She checked for signs
of life and found none.
Next, taking her courage in her hands, she knelt beside the wolf who’d saved the day, praying he wasn’t conscious
and therefore dangerous. Tentatively, she leaned over Nito’s prone form.
From what she could see, his wound appeared to be in his shoulder, and it was bleeding profusely. Taking off her
sweater, though the frigid temperatures should have made her think twice, she rolled it up in a ball and held it close to his
wound, wanting to stem the blood.
Thinking quickly, she took handfuls of snow and packed it around the makeshift bandage, keeping it in place.
Knowing she couldn’t stay outside without adequate clothing, she left the animal and headed for Lexie whose concentration
remained completely with her patient.
Running inside the cabin, she reappeared with their parkas and threw one over Lexie’s shoulders. “Philip’s dead.
And Nito’s alive but hurt bad. What can I do to help here?”
“We need to get Demi in the house. You’re stronger than me. Can you lift her shoulders? I’ll get her legs. Be gentle.
That bullet is still in there. Once she’s in the house, I’ll need my bag from the car. If I can operate as soon as possible and get
that bullet out, she’ll make it.”
Feeling lighter from Lexie’s words, Norrie gladly followed instructions. Once she leaned over the still form,
Demi’s face appeared pale and some of the blood spray from her wound colored her waxen cheeks. It made Norrie tremble to
see her best friend in such a condition.
With as much care as possible, she raised Demi, balancing her and trying to take as much of her weight as possible.
Between the two of them, they carried Demi over the threshold and with superhuman strength, they lifted her on the table,
pushing the used coffee cups out of the way.
“Please go get my bag. Where’re her sheets and towels?”
“Here, in this cupboard she has dishtowels and there’s another closet by Glen’s room over there where she keeps
the rest of the linens. I’ll get the bag.”
Minutes later, running through the snow, Norrie fetched the bag and on her way back inside, she made a
heartbreaking discovery. Nito had disappeared. Only her bloodstained sweater remained. Now why would that wolf leave? It
made no sense. Unless he wasn’t injured as badly as he’d appeared to be. One could only pray.
Shaking off that particular worry, Norrie headed back into the house, knowing she had a lot more to deal with.
Once she’d done everything she could to help Lexie, she took a few seconds to text Whit with a message for him to come
quickly and bring the sheriff.
They needed all the help they could get.
Chapter Two
“I’ll build the fire and get it warmed up in here.” Norrie needed to keep busy.
“Good idea. Make it hotter than normal. We want to keep the patient comfortable.” While Lexie puttered around
getting organized, she sent Norrie to boil the kettle and then fill a huge pot so she could sterilize her instruments.
Once they were done, Lexie again examined Demi and nodded with satisfaction. “She’s ready. Let’s get this
finished.”
Norrie had never seen an operation up close, except on television. Turns out real life was completely different.
Lexie took charge and soon they had the table draped with clean sheets, they were both decently covered to the extent of
wearing proper plastic gloves, special masks, and there were sterile pads and bandages for their patient.
Naked from the waist up, Demi’s face appeared ashen. Her long red hair now draped behind her head, hung over
the back of the table.
“So you know, I’ve never been involved with anything like this before. I hope I don’t disgrace myself and faint, or
worse… upchuck.”
“If you feel anything close to that, step away. Otherwise, I could use your help. Just pass me what I ask for.” When
she saw the confusion on Norrie’s face, she added, “I’ll help you by pointing to what they are. Just hand them to me carefully.
No dropping anything now that we have them sterile.”
“Yeah. Okay. I’m good. But you’re my witness, Demi’s gonna owe me – bigtime.”
Chuckling, Lexie looked up from concentrating and winked. “She’ll be buying the next round for both of us.” The
doctor talked as she worked. “I saw you on the phone.”
Norrie caught on to Lexie’s ploy of getting her mind off the surgery in front of them. As she removed the bullet from
Demi’s chest, the sucking noise almost got to her. But again, Lexie covered it up with another question. “Who did you text?”
“The sheriff and Whit. They’ll be here soon. Are you sure we shouldn’t have taken Demi into the hospital for this
procedure?”
“Nope. Don’t want there to be any more chances of infection. Besides, she’s lost a lot of blood. Look, just go and
boil the kettle again. I’ve got it from here.”
Handing over the last requested instrument, Norrie stepped back. Gleeful that her knees didn’t give out, she
stumbled like an old lady toward the kitchen area and then dropped to the floor.
Don’t fall apart now you idiot. Her brain gave her hell, but her legs didn’t care.
She was done for. A wuss. Good for nothing. Her head dropped into her shaking hands, and it shocked her to feel
the tears dripping through.
Growing up in Alaska, she’d killed a lot of animals in her life, but never a two-legged one. She sniffed, trying
desperately to regain her cool and not let Lexie down when the woman needed her. After all, hadn’t the doctor just faced the
disgusting stalker who’d made her life hell for a long time? Seeing him get shot after he put the bullet in Demi - one that was
meant for her - couldn’t have been easy.
So, if she could manage to stay focused and operate, then Norrie could bloody-well get her shit together and do
what she could to help. Struggling, she wiped her face, left the snot on her sleeve without caring whatsoever, and pulled herself
to her feet. Like an old woman, she began to gather the kettle and fill it.
While leaning near the sink, she saw Whit’s speeding truck swerving in the snow as it came into view. Within
seconds, it braked to a stop, almost hitting Demi’s truck still parked in front of the cabin. She banged on the window to stop
both men from hurling inside while Lexie still worked.
“Is that Whit and the sheriff?” Lexie must have heard the truck pull up.
“Yes. I’m trying to get their attention, so they don’t come in and disturb you.”
“It’s okay. Demi’s bandaged and covered now. I could use their help to move her to the bedroom.”
Whit’s scared expression questioned Norrie in the window. When she waved him in, he burst into the room alone,
his face filled with anxiety, and his blue shockers wide with fear. “What happened? We saw the body. That’s Philip Crane
who’s been shot, right?”
Suddenly he saw Demi’s unconscious body on the table. He stopped dead, his face whitening. Totally shocked,
words died on his lips as he faced Norrie and then swerved to look at the doctor. “Wha… wha… Oh, my God. Please tell me
she’s alive,” he beseeched.
Lexie smiled comfortingly. “She’s alive, Whit. And she’ll be fine. But I need you to help us get her into her bed
before the drugs wear off. I’ve given her morphine and a sedative, but both will fade soon, and she’ll wake up.”
Ripping his outer clothes off, Whit nodded. Then as if dealing with a precious treasure, he tenderly lifted Demi into
his shaking arms, hugged her close for an infinitesimal second so he could place a kiss on her forehead, and then turned toward
the bedroom.
Norrie watched the large man carry the woman like a cherished treasure, her long red waves draped over his arm,
flowing almost to his knees.
Getting there before him, Lexie helped Norrie lay a clean pad on the bed, readying it for Demi. “Wait, can you hold
her for a few seconds?” She looked at the dresser then at the man. “Does she have a nightie that’s warm and easy to get into?”
Whit looked bewildered as if his mind couldn’t cope with anything so mundane. Understanding his shock, Norrie
went to the drawers and soon came back with a recently purchased fuzzy Christmas nightie that would work. Between them,
they dressed Demi and then laid her under the covers.
The doctor took her pulse and nodded, satisfaction sliding over her pale face. “She’s doing fine. We just need to
watch for shock and any kind of rise in temperature. I’ll have to stay with her all night.”
Before Whit could answer, the sheriff stood at the open door, beckoning for her and Norrie to come with him.
Lexie nodded and patted Whit’s shoulder. “You watch her and call me if she wakes up. We’ll deal with the sheriff.”
Chapter Three
Norrie added more wood to the fire and then bustled around clearing the table while Lexie put on the kettle.
“Dawson, you want a coffee? Lexie and I need it bad. Just wish I had a bottle of whiskey to add some to it.”
The sheriff reached into his parka pocket and brought out a flask before he removed the coat and threw it over the
sofa. “Your wish is my command,” he said gallantly, making her laugh. Soon, they were seated around the table and nibbling on
the biscuits Norrie found in Glen’s cookie jar.
Dawson watched both her and Lexie, his frank gaze finally getting to her. “Ask us what you want, man. We have
nothing to hide.”
“I know that Norrie girl. I’ve known you since you were a small poppet making your Mama’s eyes roll. You
always were one for mischief.” He sipped at his coffee before taking out his notebook and a pen. “Okay. How about you tell
me what happened… from the beginning. But first, I want to know why Norrie is calling you Lexie and not Lorraine?”
“And I want to know why she’s calling you by your last name Sheriff Dawson instead of your given name?”
“You first. I’m the one with the badge.” He chuckled, thinking himself funny, and both women smiled along with
him.
Lexie started. “Remember when I first came here, and how I had explained that I had taken a different identity to
protect myself? Well, I finally came clean to Norrie, and she’s decided to call me Lexie rather than Alexandra.”
“Okay. Makes sense.”
“Now you.”
“Hate my first name and prefer to be called Dawson. It’s as simple as that.”
“Are you going to tell us your first name?”
He scratched his day-old whiskers and grinned. “Nope. Now, let’s get on with the story.”
Norrie, knowing that Dawson wouldn’t be changing his mind, looked at Lexie and sent her a confident smile, her
way of backing off so the doctor could begin. After wiping the cookie crumbs from her hands, Lexie wrapped her fingers
around the hot mug and cleared her throat. After a few seconds, where one imagined she got her thoughts straight, she began her
story.
“Well, I saw Philip at the clinic last night. He didn’t see me. While he walked around the front of the building, the
motion lights flashed on, and I recognized his face. I snuck out the back and got into my car. At first, I didn’t know what to do.
But once I calmed down, I drove to the Glacier Inn to find you.”
“Yep. I was there all right. Why didn’t you come in and get me?”
Norrie watched Lexie closely, knowing her answer was important.
“I just couldn’t. I know personally how difficult life is for you and Margie, having to deal with your grandson.
When I watched you dancing together, and you both looked so carefree and happy, I didn’t want to bring my nightmare into your
world. I should have because Norrie caught me dithering and ended up getting involved. To keep warm, she pushed her way
into my car and finally got me to tell her why I was such a mess. Then she brought me here, thinking that madman would never
find this isolated cabin.”
“I wondered about that too, so I checked his phone. He’d put a tracker on your car.”
Lexie nodded. “Should have known. Philip bragged about being a tech wizard. What I can’t understand is how he
ended up in Demi’s truck with her.”
“He’d run his own vehicle into the ditch. My guess is when Demi came along, he jumped out in front of her waving
his gun and made her bring him along.”
“Thank God he didn’t just kill her and take her vehicle.”
“He didn’t know how far the place was you were going to. Best stick with someone from around here is my guess.”
Lexie nodded, showing her agreement. “When they drove up, we just expected Demi. He’d forced her to get out of
the passenger side in front of him.” Lexie began crying then, the composure she clung to for so long finally disappeared.
Norrie sent her a supportive glance and took over the tale. “It happened so fast, Sheriff. One minute, we saw Demi
with her hands up. Then my guess is she saw Nito coming and threw herself back against that creep to help the wolf. That’s
when all hell broke loose. First, Philip shot Demi just as Nito appeared out of nowhere. See… when the wolf leapt to attack, it
made the gun lift. No doubt that beautiful wolf saved her life and took the second bullet himself. But it gave me the opportunity
I needed to shoot that sick prick and my aim was deadly.” The last few words were spoken in a harsh voice… no pity
whatsoever.
Dawson grunted. “Like you were taught.”
“Exactly. You made sure I learned my lessons, didn’t ya.” Norrie’s grin was shaky but thankful.
“Yep.” Dawson patted her clenched hands. “Wasn’t easy. What was it you used to say – you loved all of God’s
creatures. I believe that to be the excuse you used every time you balked at taking the fatal shot after targeting an animal. Guess
paper targets and bottles worked just as well.”
 “See, that’s why I ended up working Mom’s store. I’d rather buy my meat all packaged.”
Dawson laughed heartily before sobering to ask, “So where’s the gun you used?”
“Over there somewhere. I threw it away after I knew he couldn’t hurt anyone again.” Norrie stood and wearily
walked over to where she’d left Harold’s rifle. “Here it is.” She stood it up against the pillar and came back to the table.
“Good, it’s evidence. How soon before I can get a few words with Demi?” He looked toward Lexie.
“She’ll be pretty groggy and in a lot of pain. I have more morphine for her, but it can wait until after you question
her. She’ll be coherent long enough for you to talk with her but only for a few minutes.”
“It’s all I need. You warned me about the possibility of that man finding you here. I already contacted the RCMP in
Stewart. They’ll come and investigate the scene, collect evidence, and probably ask you more questions. I’ll want you to stick
around if you don’t mind.”
Norrie looked at Lexie for her agreement. When she nodded, Norrie answered. “Sure thing. Whatever you say.”
The sheriff turned to Lexie who’d stopped crying. He patted her hand clutching the tissues and spoke gently. “I
wanted you to know there’s a recent arrest warrant out for that man. Seems he’s been escalating over the last few days and shot
a motel owner over a disputed bill in Vancouver. Plus, his housekeeper in L.A. called the police after he left and filed charges
for abuse. Guess he lost his temper and beat her badly. She’s in the hospital with cracked ribs and a broken jawbone.”
Lexie made a face. “He spiraled that badly?”
“Yep. Suppose the stress of losing his sister, then his brother, and finally locating you, broke the last strand he had
to sanity.”
Whit appeared in the doorway from the bedroom, breaking up their discussion. “Demi’s awake.”
***
Whit’s shoulders heaved as he clawed back his emotions, praying to keep them under control. Seeing his Demi
lying there unconscious, a bandage around her body showing from under the collar of her nightie, and her face as pale as the
white pillow she lay on made his stomach grind in fear.
He wouldn’t blame her if tonight’s battle ended up as the last straw she’d take from this wild country he loved so
much. Being a city girl, he had to believe she’d never undergone dangers such as those she’d experienced while in Alaska.
He wished he knew if she had a family he could call. The only people she ever talked about were friends he’d
thought at first were her siblings, but she’d corrected him and then changed the subject. “Tanner and Bella couldn’t be closer if
they were my real family.”
He had no idea how to get in touch with them or even if she’d want him to bring them here to be with her. He’d
have to go into her phone and that didn’t sit well with him. From the start, she’d been such a private little soul, he hesitated to
dig into her world without permission.
They needed to talk.
Holding her hand, hoping somehow she’d sense him there with her, he whispered. “You and me… we’re gonna
come to an agreement, my love. I need you in my life forever. That means we need to trust each other with our secrets. I’ve told
you mine and now it’s your turn.”
Before he could go any further, her eyes fluttered open, and she answered with a groan. “Ca-an it wait till I’m
feeling better?” Her eyes roamed the room and then she let out a sob. “Where’s Nito?”
Chapter Four
Once Whit knew Demi was in Dawson’s care, he made it his business to follow the trail left by the wolf. He
thought it went to the trees because of the pawprints, but they could have been old ones.
Then he backtracked and saw where Nito had run to the cabin and then came out from behind the shed to attack at
the truck. Knowing he was missing something, he searched around, and that’s when he saw the body of the wolf lying not three
feet from the cabin. The recent snow had covered the dark fur, making it impossible to spot him unless one looked carefully.
He must have been trying to get to Demi after she’d been shot. With his scenting ability, he probably smelled her
blood. As Whit approached warily, knowing he and Nito had never bonded, he called out using a low, calm voice. “Nito. It’s
me, Whit. Let me come close, boy. I just want to help you.”
He lowered his body so as not to appear threatening and inched closer to the prone animal, only to hear a warning
snarl.
Thank God, he’s alive.
If he’d had to tell Demi she’d lost her wolf, he didn’t know what she’d do. Considering she’d once told him she
hated dogs, this guy mattered like a best friend. He sat back and made a decision. He’d need help to get the little bastard inside
the cabin, but once Nito knew Demi was there, he’d surely settle down.
Turning back to the animal, he leaned in to reassure him he’d be back. Getting too close, Nito lunged before he fell
back weakly.
“You little bastard, you bit me.” Whit pushed his hand into the snow where the teeth had grazed the skin. Then he
heard a whining sound that made him turn back to the wolf. He saw Nito staring at him as if questioning. “What? Now you want
to be friends. No wonder Demi calls you her little bastard, you’re a menace.”
When he stopped raving, Nito whined at him again. No more snarls. No more attitude. It was as if once he’d heard
his name, Bastard, he decided Whit could join his small group of family.
Tentatively, Whit held out his hand and this time Nito lay quivering but quiet. “I’ll be back with help, boy. Then
we’ll take you to Demi.”
***
Once he’d explained the situation to Lexie and the Sheriff, things moved quickly. “I have something we can give
him.” Lexie opened her medical bag, searching for the vial she wanted. “It’ll put him out long enough for me to make my
examination and hopefully be able to treat him, and then to get him into Demi’s room.”
She went along with Whit and the sheriff to where the animal still lay, and once Whit had approached and was able
to secure Nito’s head, she quickly injected the pentobarbital and within minutes, they made a sling out of the heavy tarp they’d
brought so they could haul the big wolf up to the cabin.
With everyone helping, they were able to carry him inside where Lexie used her skills to sew up the long gash the
bullet had made. Once she’d finished, she sat back exhausted. “Thank God it only grazed him. It was deep but not fatal. Now
that the bleeding’s stopped, he should be fine.”
Once more, they lifted the tarp and carried him to Demi’s room to make him as comfortable as possible.
In the kerfuffle, Demi woke up once again and watched as they placed the wolf close to her bed. “Is he badly
hurt?” Her voice sounded shaky… her lack of strength noticeable.
“He’ll be fine, honey.” Whit calmed her quickly. “The doctor sewed him up where the bullet tore a strip out of his
shoulder. He lost a lot of blood, but he was awake when I found him. The bastard had enough strength to bite me too.” He
showed her his wound and chuckled when she pretended not to see it.
“Dawson said Nor-rie shot the kil-ler.” His lady was quickly fading.
He caressed her cheek and leaned in close. “Yep. The bad man’s gone, and the good guys won the day.”
“I’m glad. Nito?”
“Once again, he’s a hero.”
***
During the long hours of the night, Demi heard her door being opened often while various people looked in on her.
The doctor became a regular visitor, along with Norrie. Whit stayed in the room the whole time, and his presence soothed her
as did the panting she heard from the floor area.
Towards dawn, she woke and called out but there was no answer. Whit must have left, and she found herself alone.
She tried to move to the edge of the bed to see Nito, but her body’s weakness wouldn’t allow it. Upset, she fell back against the
pillows. That’s when a wet nose poked at her hand in the dark, and she felt Nito’s presence by her side.
Overcome with gratitude for her pet, feeling weak as a baby, a sob broke loose that she didn’t expect. Emotions
lower than at any other time, sad and frustrated because she couldn’t check Nito for herself, she tried to stop the tears.
Suddenly, a loud grunt sounded as a huge animal awkwardly climbed to be by her side. He straddled her body with
his front paws. As if he knew what she had wanted so badly, he’d come to her, close enough for her to be able to hug him and
cry into his fur. “Thank you, baby. For saving my life again.” She ruffled the softness around his ears. “You’re my little bastard,
you know that, right? I love you so much.”
A warning growl began but soon stopped. Demi realized the door had opened but closed without anyone appearing.
Whit must have sensed it wasn’t a good time to intrude.
Demi continued to stroke Nito’s fur and place kisses on his face now lying close to hers. The large animal allowed
her this behavior, but she had a feeling it was only because they were both survivors sharing wounds, both thankful for being
alive, and both accepting they were now a team.
Filled with happiness that cleaned out all the earlier yucky emotions of self-pity and fear, she closed her eyes.
Before she could allow herself to slip into a restful sleep, she remembered the words she’d heard earlier from the other male
she loved. One who needed a lot more from her than she’d so far allowed herself to give.
Having undergone such a close call, Demi understood one thing. She had to let go of those protective restraints
she’d erected. Had to force herself to be vulnerable. Whit mattered… more than anyone else. He was her man, and she better
let him know how much she cared. Life was too uncertain to let any more time slip away.
Having made the decision to share her feelings as soon as possible; with her fingers clinging to her sleeping wolf,
she relaxed, and her eyes closed.
***
Whit had heard Demi’s words of love for Nito. Words he’d longed to hear himself. She treasured the wolf. And it
was only right that she did. After the animal saved her life yet again, he also felt an enormous affection for the little bastard.
Selfishly, he longed to hear those same vows of affection too. Shaking his head at his vulnerability, almost ashamed
for being envious of the wild animal, he waited before entering the room. Tiptoeing back to his chair, he watched over both his
patients for the rest of the night.
Chapter Five
Demi began to feel better by the next day. As the medication wore off, and her strength returned, she demanded that
she be able to stay on the couch rather than being an invalid, hidden away in her bedroom. To her annoyance, no one paid any
attention.
When Glen heard about the shooting the night before, he’d rushed to the cabin to check on Demi before traveling
back to the hospital to spend the night with Rudy.
Now home again, he’d forced Whit to go into his room for a well-needed rest while he carried a tray of breakfast
to the invalid.
“Glen. Hi. I’m fine, stop fussing. Can you help Nito? I think he needs to go outside.”
“Sure.” Glen watched as the animal slowly limped to the living room. Following him to the outside door, he
opened it, and saw the wolf slowly make his way to the trees in the distance.
Returning, Glen helped Demi lean back against the bunched-up pillows, placed the tray on her lap, and pulled the
chair over by her side. “You just can’t stay out of trouble, can you? The minute I turn my back, you’re into the shit-pile again.”
Demi laughed weakly. “Then don’t turn your back.”
“Easy for you to say,” he grumbled. “It’s been crazy around this place lately… never a dull moment.”
“Yeah. Except it’s Christmas tomorrow, and I refuse to spoil it. Please help me get up and onto the couch. No way
I’m spending my first Christmas in Alaska in a sick bed.”
“Jesus. You sound like Rudy. He wants out of the hospital so he can have Christmas with me. I told him he can’t
come here now with you being hurt.”
“Why can’t he? If the doctor says it’s okay, he can sleep in your bed, and you can use the sofa for one night. Come
on, Scrooge. It’s the season to be jolly.”
“Yeah. And you jolly well know that Whit won’t like it one bit… you overdoing yourself.”
“I won’t. I promise I’ll behave. You and Whit can cook the turkey and make dinner.”
“Me? Whit? Hell, Demi. We’d burn the place down.”
“Not with me instructing you. Come on. I’ll be comfy in Whit’s chair and Rudy can stay on the couch for the day.”
As if she just thought of it, she added, “Maybe we can get Norrie and Lexie to come, and they can help.”
A movement at the door made them both turn.
“Just as I suspected. You’re both crazy.” Whit moved to the end of the bed to perch on the blankets before reaching
for a piece of Demi’s toast.
Demi felt herself glow, seeing him so close. She reached out her hand and felt the warmth of his. Gripping tightly,
she beseeched in her most cajoling voice, not something she’d ever done before. Amazed at how scary it felt, she hid her eyes
and spoke softly. “I want this, Whit. Please.”
Glen’s head swiveled to Whit’s, and she peeked up to see a warning in his gaze. Then he spoke. “Demi wants her
first Christmas in Alaska to be special.”
“Then if that’s what she wants, it’s what she’ll get.” Before they could react, he held up his hand. “But if at any
time I see either of our patients overcome, we call a halt for a period of rest. Right?”
“Agreed.”
Getting her way, Whit carried her to the couch, and she made herself as comfy as possible. With a sling to support
her shoulder, and pillows piled for her back, she rested easy. Between the two men following her commands, they fixed up the
rest of the Christmas decorations and even let her play her carols.
When Norrie and Lexie dropped by later in the day to check on her, she cajoled them into promising to come and
share their Christmas dinner the next day.
While Lexie examined her wound, Demi waited patiently.
“Do you feel much pain? How about headaches or fever?”
“It aches, but it’s bearable. I stopped taking the morphine and use only Tylenol. My head’s much clearer. I know
from previous injuries, I heal fast.”
“That you do. Everything looks good. But don’t overdo things.”
“How can I with these two guards watching my every move.” Demi pointed towards the table where Norrie, Whit
and Glen were enjoying her homemade beef and barley soup. A place waited for Lexie to join them once she’d finished with
her patient.
“I have a question.” Demi kept her fingers crossed while she asked for advice.
“Shoot.”
Demi flinched and Lexie grimaced. “Too soon?”
Both chuckled, and then Demi continued. “Do you think it would be okay for Rudy to come here later and spend the
night with us so we can all have Christmas together?”
 Lexie sat thinking before she nodded. “That devil has been threatening to leave the hospital since yesterday. It’s
only Glen keeping him there with threats and promises.” Lexie made eye contact, so Demi understood how important her next
words were. “Rudy feels protective of you after what happened. It’s killing him that he hasn’t been here when you needed help.
Yet with Fred gone, I couldn’t let him out of the hospital to go home alone, and though Glen would normally take care of him,
he won’t leave you.”
Demi wasn’t surprised to hear of this situation. She’d already suspected that Glen was being torn in two directions.
“Then this will work out for everyone, right? Glen will be here with me and Rudy at the same time.”
Lexie smiled. “Right. Sounds like a plan. Plus, with Rudy out here, we can get him to back off making any
decisions about his father. Glen and I both think it’s too soon for him to have to handle those details. Dawson has been
wonderful in contacting his brothers. He’s gone ahead and made a lot of the arrangements for Fred’s body to be looked after in
the meantime. And the rest can wait until after the holidays.”
Feeling better for having everything arranged, Demi snoozed and woke up to find herself in her own bed with the
covers snuggled around her. She knew she might get in trouble, but what the heck… she slowly lowered her feet to the floor
and waited to feel oriented. Once she felt ready, she took a few steps to the chair to get her housecoat. Resting for a few more
seconds as her strength grew, she dressed herself and then wobbled to the door.
Leaning against the doorframe, she watched the others in the room talking and laughing. She saw that Rudy had
arrived and was on the couch, dressed in loungewear and being supported by lots of pillows. Whit and Glen were wrapping
presents on the floor near him, arguing over what color tissue to use in each gift bag.
Filled with love for her family, she walked forward and all three looked up. Whit shot to his feet and came to pick
her up. “No. Whit. I’m fine. You don’t need to carry me around anymore. Just maybe let me use your arm. I need to go to the
bathroom.”
When she’d finished and had opened the door to join the others, she found Whit waiting to guide her to his chair.
“We have a blanket and pillow here if you want it.”
“No. I’m good for now.” She made herself comfy and smiled at the man across from her on the couch. “Hey Rudy.
Glad you could make it.”
“Thanks for having me, especially when I know you must feel like… ahh, terrible. I’m so sorry about what
happened to you, Demi. Glen was frantic when he heard you’d taken a bullet.”
Demi smiled her thanks at Glen who’d brought her a cup of hot chocolate and was placing it on the table near her.
“Can’t leave her alone for a minute, and she’s in trouble.” His grumbling made her grin.
Whit added in a wry tone. “Tell me about it.”
Teasingly, she grouched. “Hey, give me a break. It’s not like I’m the only one here who’s had turmoil to deal with.
That’s why it’s so important to celebrate with each other for Christmas. It’ll be one day where we’re all together, safe, and
happy.”
***
Her words turned out to be true. After a warm, rather peaceful evening with more bowls of soup followed by
eggnog and cookies, all four people were satisfied just to be together.
Stories told in front of the fire became funnier and funnier until Rudy begged them to stop. Glen, who sat on the
floor next to the couch, promised no more, and even Whit tried to conceal his twinkling enjoyment.
Demi suspected that laughing hurt Rudy’s insides but seeing the joy on his face, they couldn’t take his pleas too
seriously. When he’d lowered his fingers to stroke Glen’s hair, she saw the joy he couldn’t hide. Hell, could there be a better
medicine in the world than to come out from hiding your true self and be accepted?
They broke up early, and the only sour note to the night’s fun came when Whit refused to sleep on the bed with
Demi. “I’m such a bear in bed, I don’t trust myself. I’d never forgive myself if I hurt you accidently.”
“Don’t be silly. I’m fine. If you do come too close, I’ll wake you.”
“Are you sure? You know I have a habit of reaching for you in my sleep.”
“And I like when you do it, so stop arguing.” She wearily took off her housecoat and let it drop on the bed. Before
she climbed back under the covers, she gave him a kiss. Trying to keep her eyes from closing, wanting to tell him about her
love for him, she felt her body’s weariness sink in. Accepting it wasn’t the right time to share, she shut her eyes and
remembered that tomorrow was going to be a big day for her. She drifted off into with the last thought that made her smile.
They would be together for her first Christmas in Alaska.
Chapter Six
The next thing she knew, Whit had risen for the day, and she’d slept much later than her usual early inner alarm
allowed her. Shaking off the stupor, realization hit her hard.
It was Christmas day.
Delight burst, clearing away her earlier annoyance. Never before in her life had she planned and looked forward to
the holidays like she had this year. Filled with excitement, she found her clothes. Earlier in the month, she’d bought an ugly
sweater and had hidden it away. Carefully dressing in her black yoga pants and fuzzy socks to match the joyous red Santa
emblazoned on her chest, she looked in the mirror and laughed.
Her wild hair amassed around her body every which way made her look like a child. Gathering it in her hands to
first brush it and then form a quick braid, she tied a red bow over the elastic and let it hang over her left shoulder. Then she
made her way to where she heard noises, meaning the others had begun to rise.
When she appeared it seemed to be the sign the rest of them needed to start celebrating the day. And it couldn’t
have been better if she’d planned every detail.
First they gorged on the wonderful breakfast Whit and Glen produced with Demi giving them orders. Both men
could make a mean omelet and with the ham and onions mixed with the mushrooms and cheese, the whole room smelled
delicious from their efforts. Warming the biscuits she’d frozen days ago; they toasted them then washed everything down with
orange juice and hot chocolate.
Finally, they put their plates in the kitchen to deal with later and formed a group around Rudy whose sofa bed was
next to the Christmas tree. The lights on the branches twinkled beautifully, and so did the ones that Whit had strung around the
top of the garland shrouding the fireplace. He’d purposely found branches with clusters of red berries, which added to the
decoration. In fact, the whole room looked as festive as they could make it. Seeing it all now, Demi’s heart swelled with
delight.
Watching others bursting with family spirit had always meant sadness for a girl who never belonged. This time it
was different. While she petted Pearlie who’d curled up in her lap, she gazed at everyone around her and saw a matching kind
of delight. It made her wonder if this might be the first time they too had experienced the same closeness and feeling of coming
home. Closing her eyes, she blessed the fact they were here together.
Then she glanced at Whit. Of course, as a boy growing up with a mother who loved him, he would have had other
Christmases to remember. Feeling glad for him, she clapped her hands. “Let’s each open a present one at a time so we can all
enjoy what’s in them. Okay? Glen, can you play Santa?”
After the presents were opened everyone showed their appreciation to each other. Demi loved the top-of-the-line
cellphones that Whit had given both her and Glen. She’d clung to him when he’d bent down to receive her thanks. “I love it.
Now I’ll be in touch with everyone all the time like you are with your phone.”
“Good. See there’s method in my madness. I hated thinking of either of you being stranded and not being able to
reach me.”
Glen had shyly hugged Whit too… to show his gratitude. And both had hugged her when they’d opened their gifts
and found the new scarves she’d knitted. This time, she believed they really liked them. And so did Rudy. His had actually
been made for her, but since she’d used a dark blue and knew it could be for a man as well, she’d gladly and frantically
wrapped it up at the last minute.
Suddenly a pall hung over the mood. Disheartened, Rudy apologized for not having gifts for anyone but Demi. “I’m
sorry. I just couldn’t get anything this year. Last minute, Norrie helped me for Demi.”
Both Whit and Glen spoke at the same time and then chuckled. “It’s fine. But the next steak dinner at the café is on
you.”
“Deal.” Rudy settled back with a satisfied grin.
Demi held up Rudy’s gift. “Can I open it now?”
“Sure.”
She took the top off the box and began to laugh. There sat the elaborately decorated cookie tin she’d had her eyes
on in the store. “Thank you, Rudy. Is this a hint for me to make you cookies?”
He blushed. “Aha! You caught me. But there’s something special for you inside.”
Surreptitiously shaking it, she heard a noise and opened the lid to see something wrapped in tissue. When she
spread the paper, a lovely bracelet lay nestled between the layers. Lifting the gorgeous pearl chain with a rhinestone encrusted
charm, she found the engraved words Earth Angel.
“It reminds me of you.” Rudy appeared choked up when he spoke.
Sentiments of delight broke loose from her shock. “How beautiful!” The gift made such an impression that she
fought her budding emotions not wanting to act like a blubber-puss. “I-I love it, Rudy. Thank you.” Not able to reach him, she
slipped it on her wrist and smiled his way, letting her delight show openly.
 Glen, knowing how close she came to breaking down, interrupted with his gift. “And this is from me. I hope you
like it. I didn’t know what to buy a girl.”
Carefully taking the box from the tissue paper it had been wrapped in, she opened it to see the same book on
writing that she’d often used on her Kindle. More than once, she’d muttered about losing her place, wishing she had it in
paperback so she could flip back and forth through the pages.
“You rascal. You heard my frustration every time I had to look something up about writing. I don’t know how many
times I hated the eBook format. It made searches so difficult.”
“You did mention it annoyed you when you couldn’t just go to certain places in the book.”
“You mean I’d scream obscenities when I’d lose my spot.” Laughing, she hugged the present. “I’ll use it all the
time, buddy. I love it. Thank you.”
Before they could get the paper put away, there was a bark at the door and Whit rose to let Nito in. The animal
hesitated when he saw so many people, especially Rudy who wasn’t quite a stranger but not someone he had accepted yet as
belonging.
Pearlie ran to greet him and nuzzled her face against his shoulder as if she knew where his recent wounds had been
the worst. He nudged her gently with his head before she ran back to where Glen’s lap waited.
Demi couldn’t let the large animal leave without the treat she’d saved. “Nito. Come here. I have a present for you
too.”
The wolf, who wouldn’t leave the mat by the door, just stared at her. Then as if he accepted she was fine, he turned
around to go back outside. “No, wait.” Demi rose awkwardly from her chair and slowly made her way to the fridge, Whit right
beside her.
There she took out a parcel wrapped in butcher paper and found the ham bone she’d saved for the wolf. She
lowered it so he could take it from her hand. He hesitated. They hadn’t quite gotten to the point where he accepted food she
didn’t just lay in front of him.
She nudged it closer, and he slowly took it and turned to leave.
Whit still beside her in case she needed his support, moved to accommodate the wolf. “I’ll let him out.” He opened
the door and purposely patted the animal’s back without flinching with fear. Demi, seeing that move, quickly turned to face him,
and saw the pride he couldn’t hide.
Whit and the little bastard had finally made friends.
***
By the time Lexie and Norrie arrived with more gifts and lots of premade food, the cabin smelled like paradise.
Between Demi and her two slaves, they’d gotten the dressing made, and the turkey stuffed and into the oven with lots of time to
spare.
Later, after unwrapping the pile of gifts from the girls and putting the empty apple pie plates aside, Demi sat back
in her chair. Filled with pride, she looked around the room and beamed. Not only had Norrie loved her new sweater but Lexie
had seemed to really appreciate the box of cookies and the two jars of jam she’d wrapped up last minute for her.
They all laughed when Rudy mentioned quite loudly how much he loved jam too, angling for some of his own to
take home.
“Don’t beg, man. It’s embarrassing.” Glen teased him. “Besides, I know where she hides her stock.”
Once Glen and Rudy relaxed in the living room, talking quietly with Lexie, Norrie sidled over to Whit and Demi
who were still at the table. “I have a favor I need to ask, Whit. But if you can’t, I’ll understand. It’s just that I trust you more
than anyone. You’ve done it all before. And you’re good—”
“Hey. Stop with the butter. Just spit it out.”
“I need someone to look after the store for a few days. I want to go back to L.A. with Lexie to help her settle things
before she moves here for good.”
Whit didn’t hesitate. “Sure. Starting when?”
“Tomorrow?” Norrie’s low voice turned questioning. She winced when she saw his eyes flash. “I know. It’s so
soon. But we didn’t think the FBI would want her to return right away. Seems there’s questions they need answers to. Plus, her
family hasn’t seen her for some time since she was basically in witness protection. She feels she owes them an explanation.
I’m just worried for her to go back there alone.”
Demi saw how much it meant to Norrie and broke in. “We understand, Norrie. The doc went through a tough time
with that psycho. It’ll be hard for her to return to the old mess without backup.”
Demi had seen the growing relationship between the two girls and was thrilled for both women who might have
thought that romance had passed them by.
She turned to see that Whit was watching her reaction, and she nodded her head encouragingly toward him. “I can
help if it’s too much for you alone.”
He began to chuckle, and Norrie shook her head before speaking. “This crazy-assed broad doesn’t get it, does
she?”
“Not even a little.” Whit rolled his eyes.
Turning to Demi, Norrie patted her hand jokingly and spoke as if Demi were a child. “Honey. You were shot. You
need to rest. You can’t work. Not for some time.”
Making a grotesque face at them both, she pretended to pout. “Fine. I’ll just stay here in the cabin, twiddle my
thumbs, and rot away.”
Whit put his arm around her shoulder and asked very seriously, “Are you sure you’ll be able to manage? Glen and
Rudy can hang around for a few days. I don’t think his brothers will be here until after the New Year.”
Perking up, losing the pretend act, she said, “Oh well, if they’ll be here, that makes all the difference. I’ll have
someone to do my chores… and keep me company.”
As if speaking to a child, she added, “Whit, I’ll be fine. We’ll all be fine. You go and do what you should. If it’s to
help Norrie, please don’t stop on my account.”
***
Once he and Norri had settled the details, she knew that the despair she kept hidden stemmed from regret. Again,
her fantasies about how she’d make them a romantic dinner and tell him about her past, her feelings for him, and her hopes for
their future would have to wait.
It had become very important that she fill him in on all her secrets. And that couldn’t be rushed in the dark before
making love. She needed to watch his expressions. See for herself the proof that it wouldn’t matter to him that she had come
from such a rotten beginning… an abandoned throwaway.
Chapter Seven
Whit hated being away from the cabin and Demi for the days he stayed in town to look after the store. Working the
hours that Norrie put in, he soon came to realize that the woman didn’t have a life. Well, apart from her business that is.
She kept the place open until nine in the evening and unlocked the doors at eight the next morning. He’d be talking
to her about this crazy itinerary as soon as she returned. The people in the tiny town just took advantage of her good nature.
Thinking back, he knew he’d been a culprit too. And, because they all expected to find the store open, Whit didn’t
like to take it upon himself to make any drastic changes. Unsurprisingly, he found that not all the customers were there to shop.
They expected to hang out, drink coffee, and catch up on the daily gossip.
Clive stopped by numerous times a day to warm up while clearing snow off the highway and local areas.
Whit teased him after the third break. “Hey man, don’t you have a home life?”
“Nope. My old lady’s going through early menopause, and she’s driving me crazy. At least here, Norrie’s always in
a decent mood, and her coffee’s the best in town.”
“Hey, that woman of yours spoils the hell outta you. Maybe Maude just needs a trip to a sunny place. You know the
ladies get affected when there’s so little daylight over these winter months. Try sending her to her sister’s place in Oregon for a
few weeks. That’ll brighten her spirits up.”
Clive looked thoughtful. “Maybe you’re right. She has been kinda weepy lately and seems depressed. Planning a
trip might be the best medicine. Okay. Good call, Whit. I’ll suggest it today.” Clive settled in for a chat and asked the same
question Whit heard from everyone. “So, what’s the news today?”
“Give me a break. Why do you always figure I’m your Facebook feed?”
“Cause… everyone comes in here to share their stuff. Don’t you listen?”
Personally, he seldom paid attention to the various stories, but it didn’t seem to make much difference. They still
expected him to share what he heard from others. He shook his head and went to stack shelves.
If it wasn’t for Demi having her new phone now and being able to Facetime with her every day, he’d be seriously
pissed. Even the weather wouldn’t behave. He’d have traveled home each night if the thermometer hadn’t dropped to record
lows which made him worry that he might not be able to get back into town the next day.
Instead, he bunked in Norrie’s guestroom and made do with her two affectionate cats for company. As more days
passed, he kept hoping he’d hear the news that Norrie and Lexie would be on the next flight, but it seems that either the lawyers
needed them to stick around for extra days or the weather held them back.
One of the problems that he dealt with had to do with a kid called Charlie Welch. He’d watched the scruffy little
beggar coming in every day, wandering the aisles, and leaving without buying anything. The noticeable bulge in his parka told
the story of his activities and rather than call him out, Whit decided to talk to Norrie about him.
“Christ. That poor kid can’t catch a break. They’re new in town… him and his mom who’s a single woman. Beth
works at the bar, and Jack lets them stay in the room above. At least it’s warm, and a place to hang out, but that’s about all I can
say for it.”
“Jesus. It’s a dump.”
“I know. Jack used to stay up there when he got snowed in, but now he lives in town so it’s usually empty. Look,
Whit, I figure if the kid steals a can of stew to feed himself now and again, I can write it off. I gather when Beth goes on a
bender, she often disappears for days on end. I hate to think of the kid being hungry. For Christmas, I gave him a bagful of food:
peanut butter, chips, cookies; you know, things a kid likes to eat. I asked him about his mom, and he said she wasn’t feeling
well and had stayed in bed. But then when Jack showed up, he said Beth was MIA, and that it happens all the time. According
to him, if one of the miners comes to town, she takes up with them until they have to go back to work. Then she returns all
apologetic and promising it won’t happen again. Jack’s so desperate for workers, he’s allowed her to get away with that shit. I
made him promise to leave Charlie alone when this goes on, and he agreed.”
“How old is the boy?”
“I think maybe eleven or twelve. Why?”
“Letting a kid get away with stealing isn’t sending a good message, Norrie. You know that.”
“You’re breaking my heart here.” The uncomfortable ring in her tone let him know she felt bad.
“It’s true and you know it.”
“Yeah, I hear you. But things have been a bit crazy, and it was easier to turn a blind eye than make a fuss.”
“Well, I can’t do that. I’m calling him on his thieving.”
“Oh, Whit, don’t be hard on the kid.”
“Don’t worry, I won’t. But by the time you get home, you’ll have a new employee. Bye now.” When he hung up, he
did so with a smile on his face.
Not long after, he watched Charlie make his way to the canned soups and waited for a beat before sneaking to the
end of the aisle, standing with his arms crossed… lingering until the kid noticed him. His eyes picked up on the skinny frame
topped by a mass of uneven auburn curls, undoubtedly cut by someone with a pair of scissors and no money.
He moved out of hiding. “What’s that you got there?”
Charlie’s face turned red, and his fingers curled into fists. “Nuthin.”
“Yeah? I say you stole something, and it’s in your jacket.”
The boy looked up and Whit saw him pale and then start to shake. But he swallowed and still tried to play the
innocent. “You’re wrong mister.” Before Whit knew the little bastard would, he began to run, and if the doorway hadn’t been
blocked by Clive arriving for his regular coffee break, he’d have gotten away. “Clive, grab the kid.”
Without questioning him, Clive grabbed Charlie’s hood and held him in place. “What’s going on?”
“Can you help yourself to coffee. This little beggar and me… we got some talking to do.”
Clive looked into Whit’s face and relaxed as soon as he saw the sneaky wink. “Right. Here. You take him. I’ll get a
drink.”
Whit took Charlie by the arm and led the unwilling, wriggling, skin & bones body into the storeroom.
“Stop fighting. Settle down. I’m not going to hurt you.” He let go of the jacket and stood in front of the door to
destroy any ideas of running. “Give me what you took.” He held out his hand.
“I didn’t take nuthin’. I told you already.” This time, Charlie’s voice wobbled, and he couldn’t look Whit in the
eye.
“Hey brat, I wouldn’t recommend you add lying to stealing. You don’t do either well. Just give it over.”
Suddenly, Charlie tried to rush Whit, thinking to fight for his freedom, and while he attacked, the can of stew fell to
the floor. The noise stopped him in his tracks.
Whit pushed the boy back and leaned down to pick up the evidence. “So… what’s this?”
“Hell if I know.”
“Christ on a stick, kid you’re pushing my patience. Why’d you take this?”
Charlie wouldn’t look at him. Instead, he shoved his hands in his pockets and kicked at a box lying close by. “For
my mom. She’s sick. She’ll pay for it when she comes in herself.”
“Why didn’t you say so when I asked you before?”
“Because you called me a thief. And you attacked me.”
Whit began to laugh. “You’re a real little actor, ain’t ya? I never hurt you, and you know it. I just want to get to the
bottom of why you’re stealing instead of working for what you need.”
Charlie made a derisive sound, too mature for a youngster to have in his arsenal. “Me working? Get with it, mister.
Nobody’d hire me. I’m a kid.”
“And a bag of bones at that. But you’re wrong about me not hiring you. You want to eat? You pay for your food by
earning a wage. I need somebody to help out here at the store. There’s a sidewalk that needs shoveling and this storeroom
needs cleaning and arranging all the time. Plus, shelves could stand to be washed and organized. It doesn’t take a genius or a
man to do that kind of work. You want a can of stew, it’s yours. After you shovel the front walk. Your hours are every day, four
to six.”
And so started a weird kind of friendship. Every day, Charlie appeared at exactly four o’clock and Whit gave him
a list of three or four chores. It didn’t take long for Whit to realize the kid had trouble reading.
From the beginning of their relationship, Whit had laid down the law. “A man who can’t read, won’t ever earn a
decent living. Hell, dude, even stocking shelves means a man has to know how to read.” Whit went to the revolving stand and
slid out a paperback. He pulled the same one out from under the counter and passed the new one to Charlie. “Here’s a new teen
book called Shadow Jumper that I’m reading myself. It’s good and full of action.”
Green eyes filled with disbelief stared into his face. “You serious? You want I should read?”
“You got better things to do? When you can’t read the list I print out every day, then you have to read me a page
from this book before you start work. Deal?”
Confused yet interested, Charlie replied, “Deal. And I get to keep this copy?”
“Yep. You have to practice, right? And not during working hours.”
Being a kid with few words, Charlie took the book, and Whit watched as he put it carefully aside as if it were the
crown jewels. Then he did the chores for the day and before he left, he gathered up the book, asked if he could take a plastic
bag to protect it from the snow falling, and disappeared.
The next day, he haltingly read the first page. And so it continued like that each day they worked together. Whit
brought Norrie up to date on what had transpired, and when she questioned him about the boy’s wages, he admitted they’d
settled on minimum wage… but he’d be taking care of that himself.
“No way, Whit. You know I can use some help around the place. I’ve just been too lazy to deal with hiring
someone. The money’s no problem.”
“Hey, he’s my responsibility. I hired him, and I’ll look after the money. You pay him, and I’ll pay you. Capuche?”
“Fine. You always have to win. I won’t bother arguing. Just know how much I love you for helping me out.”
 “You’re pretty swell yourself, sugar. Have fun in the city but get home soon.”
***
Lying in bed, he thought about the earlier call he’d made to say goodnight to Demi. He’d sensed that something was
different. In fact, each day he was held up, things got downright weird. Like she appeared almost shy… hell he didn’t know
exactly.
Sensing her being troubled, he finally asked, “What’s wrong, honey?”
“Nothing. We’re fine here. I’m up ten games of crib on both Glen and Rudy. And… Laurie liked my book so much;
she sent me a huge advance to start my second story.”
He’d laughed at her bragging and was thrilled she’d decided to continue with her writing. “That’s great, baby.
Look, I miss you guys. If the cold snap breaks, I’ll try and get home tomorrow.”
“We miss you too. I hope you can get here, but I understand if you can’t.” Then she’d shut down the call, and he
sensed she’d left something unsaid.
Unable to relax, deciding he’d question her on their next face-to-face, he thought about how things must be going at
the cabin. He knew Rudy had started getting around a lot better, and Glen kept busy with chores like keeping the firewood well
stocked, shoveling the snow, and watching the generator so it didn’t freeze. According to the frequent talks he had with his
buddy, they spent most evenings playing games and taking turns cooking. In fact, they sounded like they were totally enjoying
life without him, and it kinda pissed him off.
By the time he heard from Norrie that their flight had been cancelled yet again, he’d been taking care of business
almost a week. “I’m so sorry, Whit. We’ve been at the airport for hours, and they shut down another plane just now. Doesn’t
look like we’ll be able to fly out until tomorrow.”
“Hey, don’t worry. You can’t fight Mother Nature. Just get here as soon as you can.”
He fumed quietly for the rest of the day and woke up the next morning feeling lonesome. Maybe he’d just close
down for a few hours and try to get out to the cabin with Clive. Feeling certain they were snowed in, or they’d have drove Blue
into town, he decided to pay extra to have their road cleared.
Thinking it was a great idea, he made the arrangements and felt a lot better. But just as he was about to lock the
store up and head outside to where Clive waited, he got a call that changed everything.
Chapter Eight
Demi hated having Whit being close and yet so far that they couldn’t be together in person. As much as she loved
the efficiency of her new phone, she hadn’t quite gotten into the vibe of seeing another person on a screen, knowing they could
see her. She’d always been one who needed her personal space, and this felt like a complete invasion to her. Though she tried
not to let it interfere with their discussions, she couldn’t wait until Norrie returned, and life got back to normal.
Thankfully, her shoulder became stronger every day. When she overdid things, her body let her know, and so she
still had to take things easy. Thankfully, Lexie kept in touch, and they discussed her healing process.
“I want to start working it. What do you suggest?” If exercises would help her get strong again, she itched to get
started.
“Hey, just be patient and let everything heal. Maybe this week you can begin with some light massage. It’ll help
loosen the tightness. Get Whit to use a cream and work it in gently, not too hard.”
“Whit hasn’t been home since you guys left.”
“What? Why?”
“It’s completely snowed in here. We had a huge dump the day you flew out; you were lucky it came after your
flight. Then everything froze. And more snow fell each day. The highway has been so treacherous, he’s worried if he does get
through our road, he won’t be able to get out again.”
“Jesus, I’m sorry, Demi. We didn’t know. He never mentioned it to Norrie. We’ll get back as soon as we can. I’m
glad you still have Glen and Rudy with you to take care of things.”
“Me, too. Rudy’s healing fast now. In fact, he’s more anxious than I am to be done with this living like a patient.”
“I know. When I talk to him and Glen, he keeps trying to push the limits. Not that it’s a bad thing. In Rudy’s case,
his body will stop him going overboard. Those ribs will take their merry old time healing. I already told him he needs to pay
attention, or he’ll suffer for his foolishness.
Demi chuckled. “He’s already paid the price a few times. Glen’s been like a clucking hen around him… hell,
around both of us. Actually, he’s been quite wonderful.”
“Norrie showed me a picture of Glen from last year. I can’t believe how much better he is after meeting you.
Norrie explained what happened. In fact, she’s told me a bit about all the characters in town, and between us, I can’t wait to get
back. I’m thinking about the place like it’s home now.”
Demi let out a small laugh. “Bet knowing Norrie lives here makes a difference.”
Lexie giggled; a sound not usually heard from the woman who previously seemed so serious. “She’s wonderful.
My folks love her. I promise, we’ll get home as soon as we can. Now listen, doctor to patient, leave your shoulder alone to
heal, and I’ll do an examination when I’m back at the clinic. Then we can discuss some exercises.”
Demi hung up agreeing yet frustrated. Sneaking various chores, she admitted there was a lot of tenderness around
her wound, and yet if her mind could drive her body, she’d be outside helping Glen shovel instead of inside arguing about
cooking.
One thing she could do was to work on her computer. Deciding not to snivel over things she couldn’t change, she
got out her laptop and checked her emails.
That’s when she saw the letter from Lefty, Harold’s friend in Vancouver. The same man who owned the café and
had cooked them one of the best meals she’d ever eaten in a restaurant.
Dear Demi,
I know Harold would be upset if he knew I was writing to tell you this, but I felt you’d want to know. He’s been
going downhill for the last few months, lost quite a bit of weight and is often tired. I was finally able to drag him to the
doctor’s, and they say he’s in congestive heart failure.
I first noticed it when he started wheezing, and his appetite had dwindled. You know him when he comes to my
place, he usually eats like a bear. Not so much now. He fainted last week, and I saw how bad his ankles are swollen. He’s
slowed down so much. Doc says he needs more oxygen but he’s being stubborn.
All he talks about is coming to see you in the Yukon. Says if it’s the last thing he gets to do, he’ll die a happy
man.
I asked the doctor, and he says Harold should go if he wants to. They can give him some medicine to make him
breathe better and to keep him stable for now. Since he’s determined, they told me there’s no time to waste.
If you can find us a place to stay, I promised him I’d come with him in the airplane. He wants to surprise you,
but I told him no. It’s not fair. So, he will bring it up next time you call him on Sunday.
I just wanted to warn you about the truth. If you can’t have us there, I understand.
Your pal,
Lefty
 At that instant, the world shifted, and fear began to take shape. When Demi saw the signature logo under his name
with the restaurant’s title, address, and phone number, she didn’t hesitate. Calling the number, she anxiously waited to hear
Lefty’s voice.
Thankful it wasn’t one of his workers answering, she quickly replied, “Hi, Lefty, it’s me, Demi. I just opened your
email and found out that Harold is sick. I’m so sorry. He looked well in the summer, but I know he’s getting on.”
“Yeah, hi Demi girl. I rewrote the note a number of times, and then almost didn’t send it. Harold would be mad if
he knew I went behind his back.”
“Then we won’t tell him. I just wanted to reassure you that you can bring him whenever it suits you. I know Whit
wouldn’t mind if you both stayed at his house in town. He had it closed down, but he recently opened it for some friends over
the holidays who needed a place for their parents to stay. They leave tomorrow.”
“That sounds good. I know you’re kinda isolated at the cabin.”
“We are. His house is better situated because the clinic is close by and so is the store. Of course, as long as the
weather is good, you’ll spend a lot of your time here with me at the cabin.”
“Are you sure it’s okay we come, Demi? He’s feeling pretty low, and I know it’ll cheer him a lot to have something
to look forward to. And… he talks about you non-stop. You’ve become very important to the old fart.”
Laughing, as if he knew she would, her face broke into a huge smile, and her delight at the prospect seeing them
sounded in her voice. “I think it’s a wonderful idea. I can’t wait to have you both here. When did you figure to travel?”
“I’ve been watching the weather, and I know you’ve had it bad for the last week. But it looks like there’s a break
coming and some better times to follow. Would three days from now work for you? It’s New Years Day and one of the easier
times to get reservations.”
“Good thinking. We’ll pick you up in Terrace – just send me your itinerary. And don’t worry. We’ll get you settled.
Do you have winter clothing?”
“I do… from when I lived in Manitoba. I might even have a parka for Harold. No problem, we’ll come properly
attired.”
Laughing at his witticism, she ended the call in all seriousness. “I’m going to call Harold right now.”
“He’ll wonder why. You already called for Christmas.”
“Hey, I have other news I can share. My editor just sent me a big royalty payment and wants me to write a second
book. He’ll be happy for me. If he brings up the trip, I’ll know what to say.”
“Can you let me know how it works out?”
“Absolutely. I’ll call you right after I talk to him.” Before she hung up, she added, “Lefty, keep me up to date with
your plans. If there’s anything I can do from my end, let me know.”
“Thanks, Demi. You’re a sweetheart. Talk soon.”
Demi sat back and let the information she’d just heard sink in. Sick inside at the thought of Harold being unwell
made her sigh long and hard, clench her hands, and bow her head. Goddammit. Just when she felt like she had a family, this
kind of shit happened.
She hated to think of a world that didn’t include that old man. She’d kept him involved in everything she’d
accomplished over the months of living in Alaska. At first, she’d sent letters, but since his writing had declined so much over
the last few months, she’d called instead. The recent phone calls had brought them closer. In her dreamworld, she thought of
him like her family, and it had made her feel safe to know he existed.
Dealing with her misery before calling him, she swallowed her pity for the man, cleared her throat, and sat up
straight. When he answered, happy to hear from her, she shared her news. His excited congratulations were like a balm to her
wounded spirit.
Since she’d sent him a copy of her manuscript once it was finished, she knew his praise came from a place where
he’d read her work, had even pointed out a few blatant errors, and had raved about the finished product. She loved hearing him
tell her how he just knew she’d be writing a lot more books in the future… because in his case, they weren’t just empty
compliments.
Trying not to let out her knowledge about his secret, she sneakily led the topic to when he’d be able to visit…
something she did often. Only this time, he told her that he’d convinced Lefty into traveling with him, and they’d like to come
soon. Pretending shock, she let out a little scream. “Oh, Harold, I would love that. I can’t wait to see you. I have so much to
show you. All the things we’ve done with the cabin, plus introduce you to Charlie and Nito. I have no doubt you’ll like them
both.”
Neither he nor she brought his doctor’s diagnosis into the conversation. Unknowing how to bring it up without
upsetting the old guy, she decided to wait for that talk until she saw him.
By the time their discussion ended, she felt a bit better. He sounded much the same as usual and seemed thrilled by
her acceptance of them coming to Alaska.
In fact, he shut down their call, leaving her surprised at the speed. Usually, he liked to talk for as long as he could
string it out. His voice filled with excitement, he said, “I gotta tell Lefty. He wanted to wait for the weather to get better. I told
the wuss I didn’t care about a bit of cold and snow. Now, I’ll tell him to get started making our arrangements.”
“It’ll be wonderful to have you here, Harold. I can’t wait to show you what’s been done on the property.”
“Missy, you just can’t understand how much I want to see you, and to show off to the scenery to Lefty that I’ve
bragged about for years. No doubt, it’s probably the worst season to travel there, but you know what? I don’t care. Just to smell
the winter mountain air and see those stars again will do me wonders.”
“Hey… what about me?”
Harold laughed loud and hard, his excitement infectious. “It goes without saying that seeing you again will be the
best medicine of all.”
“Now you’re just buttering me up.” She laughed with him. “Seriously, let me know when to expect you. I want to
share the news with Whit.” She cleared her throat from the huskiness that had suddenly appeared. “And Harold, I can’t wait.”
Feeling better for having had the conversation with a man she thought would sound sickly, only to find him more
robust than usual, her depression disappeared. Happier, she called Whit with the news and before she could share, she found
out that he had some of his own. Information that wasn’t what she wanted to hear.
“You’re leaving? Before New Years? Why?”
Chapter Nine
Whit absolutely hated sharing the misery he couldn’t hide from her. “Demi, there’s something I’d meant to tell you
about before the shooting took place. After all that excitement, I forgot completely.”
“Is it with your Ophthalmologist? When he called, you hid your conversation, and I was worried that he gave you
bad news.”
Hearing the hurt in her voice, Whit figuratively kicked his ass for not telling her about the call when it happened.
Trying to save her from being disappointed if he wasn’t chosen for the trials, he’d kept it all a secret. Yet now he finds out,
she’d known something all along and felt left out.
Fuck! A guy couldn’t win.
“I didn’t want to get your hopes up. It’s not that I didn’t want to share—”
“I understand. You didn’t want me that involved in your life.”
“No. No, no. It wasn’t like that. Honest to God, sweetheart, I was going to tell you. I promise.” Frustrated with
having to deal with such a sensitive topic over the phone, he let his displeasure appear and knew she took it to heart.
Dammit, how could a guy talk to his lady about all the things he wanted to share over a phone?
“So, tell me.” Having no acting skills, she had to be aware that he heard the disappointment she couldn’t hide.
“When the doc called, he told me about a trial they would be doing on eye problems like mine, and he wanted my
permission to put my name on the list. But before he could, he explained I’d have to go there for another examination.”
“Okay. But so soon? I don’t understand. Why didn’t he make the arrangements, giving you more time?”
“He did. I got the email the day you were shot. My appointment was to be later in the month. I was going to ask if
you wanted to make a trip of it and go with me. But they just called to say it’s been moved up because the specialist in charge
of the trials has taken an assignment to work for the Doctors without Borders… for veterans wounded in the war.”
She sounded less huffy when she spoke next. “Okay, when do they want to see you?”
“If I can make it, they want me there the day after tomorrow. Can you be ready to travel with me?”
***
Son of a bitch!
With her good mood now slithering into a mess on the floor, Demi let out a groan. “I can’t. I want to, but it’s
impossible. That’s why I was calling. I just got off the phone with Lefty and then Harold.” By the time she’d explained about
their future visitors, she wanted to pound the walls. She’d relied on Whit to help her with the two old men.
“Christ. We can’t catch a break, can we? I’d love to have been with you to go pick them up, but I’ll have to leave
tomorrow if I want to get to Miami in time. Maybe I should just tell the doc to put me in the next batch of patients. My sight has
improved, especially in my left eye. And I do have better vision in my right. It’s not perfect, but I get around fine.”
“Don’t you dare. I’ll never speak to you again if you miss this opportunity. Besides, you’d never forgive yourself.”
“Honey, I’m not even sure if they’ll accept me in the trial. What if he examines me and says I won’t be admitted?”
“Well, if he does, at least you’ll know you did everything you could on your end. Look, I figure the two oldies will
most likely spend a couple of weeks here. You’ll probably be back in time to see them, right?”
“I don’t know. Hell, I don’t know anything. But listen, Clive’s here now. I’m closing the store for a few hours and
heading your way. We’ll clear the road on the way in, and while he plows the parking area, we’ll have a bit of time together
before I have to head back.”
***
True to his word, he showed up an hour later, and Demi’s whole body tingled when she saw him after so long.
Glen met him at the door, and as Whit talked with him, his eyes sought hers, and their gazes met and held. His look burned a
hole right through her defenses, and she yearned to be able to run into his arms and never let go. Only shyness and the other two
playing cards at the table stopped her acting on her impulses.
Glen waited until Whit had devested himself of his outerwear and then spoke. “Demi said you want me to take you
to the airport tomorrow? Good thing the weather’s clearing up. Norrie and Lexie will be back too.”
“Yeah, it’s best if you keep my big truck with the plow around here rather than have it sitting at the airport.
Especially with your expected company. You okay with that?”
“Of course. Whatever you want. Okay if Rudy comes along?” Rudy gave him the thumbs up sign and grinned happy
with the news. “He’s getting housebound and needs to get out. Plus, his older brother is arriving in Terrace tomorrow. We can
hang out and bring him back with us, save him renting a vehicle. If you don’t mind.”
“No problem.” Whit walked to where Demi sat in her chair watching him like a hawk. “Any chance for a cup of
coffee?”
Galvanized, she jumped up only to have him hold her shoulders to keep her sitting. He leaned down and brushed
his lips over hers. “Not right now. But Clive will be looking for some when he’s finished plowing.”
Glen moved toward the sink. “I’ll get it, Demi. You talk with Whit.”
 Whit held out his hand and waited until she took it, then guided her to stand and follow him to the bedroom. “Come
help me pack.”
Once he’d shut the door, he turned and gathered her in his arms. “I’m sorry, honey. I hoped to be able to spend lots
of time with you after Norrie and Lexie got back. I really was intending on explaining about the appointment. Everything is just
so mixed up now.”
His tender voice, like balm to a wounded spirit, made her forget all her previous angst, and she simply nestled in
lovingly, feeling his warmth and his strength. She basked in the safeness he always made her feel. Even his personal smell…
that of a man whose been out in the fresh air, made her close her eyes and enjoy his nearness. “I would have come with you.
You know that.”
“I do. But I understand how much Harold means to you. Besides, I’m not sure the doctor would advise you to be
traveling this soon after your own operation.”
She pulled away to look up at him. “Whitaker Hart… don’t you start that nonsense with me too. Everyone treats me
like I’m fragile, and trust me, I’m not. As soon as Lexie gets back, she’s promised to help me with some exercises to strengthen
those muscles again, and I’ll soon be as good as new, you’ll see.”
Laughing now, he looked into her face. He placed his hands on both sides of her head, holding her there so he could
gaze into her eyes. “I’ve no doubt whatsoever that you’ll be strong as a horse.” Then he rubbed his nose against hers before
leaning in to kiss her forehead.
Not satisfied, Demi reached with her lips, searching for his. Once their mouths linked, it was pure combustion.
They each struggled for control but neither had the strength to deny what was so obviously needed by both.
In seconds, they’d loosened their clothing, were against the wall, and he was deep inside her. Holding on with her
one good arm, she sunk into every kiss, every caress, and as he plunged into her body, she kept her legs wrapped around his
thighs and basked in the aching, breathtaking buildup of their passion.
Crushed by desire so strong, she couldn’t breathe. Instead, she softly moaned her delight while he did the same.
Drenched, hungry, explosively close to completion, she tightened her inner walls and after a few more penetrations, she
pumped him dry.
Incredibly sensitized, they held each other in place for long moments while the spasms continued, and shudders
slowly ebbed. Finally, weak now, Whit lowered her carefully and leaned in so he could place his face by her neck. Groaning
into her ear, he whispered, “I didn’t hurt you, did I? I’m sorry, honey. I couldn’t stop. You just look so beautiful.”
“I’m fine. It was good, Whit. It’s always good with you and me.”
A knock at the door sounded above the country music being played in the other room. They both stiffened. Glen
spoke loudly. “Clive’s here now. Says you have to get ready cause he has another run to make before the end of the day.”
Whit’s voice sounded hoarse until he coughed to clear the after-sex grittiness from his throat. “Just packing. Be
there in a minute.”
While he talked, Demi straightened herself and went to the closet to get his duffel bag.
By the time they joined the others for a quick coffee before leaving, Whit had given Demi extra keys for his house
and instructions on everything she’d need to know for the two oldies to have a good time.
“I’ll be back as soon as possible, baby. But we’ll talk every day. Promise not to overdo things.”
“Go.” She pointed at the door. “I promise. I’ll be fine.”
Glen and Rudy squeezed into the big rig with them as they drove back into town, and for the first time in many
weeks, Demi found herself alone with Nito and Pearl…. and her memories of what had happened.
At first, all Demi could think of was their lovemaking… their passion and how it ignited so quickly. Would she
ever tire of seeing that man? Of being drawn to his magic?
Completely honest with herself, she admitted that as much as she craved his body, she cared even more for how he
made her feel by just looking at her.
Sadness flowed, and she had no way of controlling it.
Once again, she hadn’t told Whit how much she loved him.
Chapter Ten
Demi enjoyed the days she had alone, but as soon as Norrie and Lexie reappeared, she was more than ready for
company. Able to drive Blue into town now that the road had been cleared, and there hadn’t been more snow, she did her town
chores as well as catching up on their news.
“Tell me about your trip.” She’d talked Norrie into leaving the store with her casual worker so they could sit and
have lunch together at the café. “I’m glad Edna got back in time for Whit to leave.”
“Yeah, me too. She had a good visit with her sister in Vancouver, but she needs some extra hours… says she spent
a fortune while in the city.”
“Easy to do.” Demi understood that concept. “With her wanting more hours, you can take some time to yourself.
What about Charlie? Whit told me about him. How’s he working out?”
“Seems to be okay. He’s been on time every day and stays busy without me needing to scold him. Strange thing
though, when he first arrived, he asked for his list. I told him he didn’t need one, but he said that Whit had given him a list of
chores every day. Something about if he couldn’t understand it, then he had to read a page from a book that Whit had left by the
till. I told him I’d get Whit to explain it to me, but for that day, I could just tell him what I wanted him to do. He looked kinda
miserable. I wasn’t sure if it was because Whit had left and I was back, or he missed not having to read. I’ll get to the bottom
of it when Whit returns my call. In the meantime, do you know what it’s all about?”
Demi nodded. “Just a bit. Best talk to Whit, and he’ll explain more. But the day he’d made those arrangements with
Charlie, he told me that when he’d realized that Charlie didn’t read very well, he’d made a deal with him. If he couldn’t make
out what he’d printed on the daily list, then Charlie had to read him a whole page from a book he’d given him. He had a copy
and gave one to Charlie. Guess the boy got into it. Whit said that at first he’d read from the beginning pages, but Whit could see
he’d been reading it at home and was soon reading from the middle section. I’m sure he left it for you at the store.”
“I’ll look for it.” Norrie chuckled, shaking her head. “Typical Whit. The man’s a genius for getting through to
people without them knowing he was playing them. Look at Duffy; Whit’s been bankrolling the man for years… giving him all
kinds of work on purpose to keep the garage afloat. Even makes sure that the Premiere Mine project sends work his way. Same
with Mrs. Libby. He eats there a lot, sends his co-workers to the place, and pays a portion of her rent so the bank only charges
her half. Now he’s making me let him pay Charlie’s wages… said he’d hired him, and he would take care of the boy.”
“I never knew he was such a philanthropist.” Demi’s pride swelled for the man she considered her boyfriend.
Norrie eyed her, grinning at her obvious pleasure at hearing about Whit’s generosity. “Why do you think I asked
him to look after my store when I was stuck without Edna? I can trust him implicitly. He’s stepped in other times and saved my
bacon after Mom died. Once I actually got to see how badly she’d mishandled the place, it could have closed down without
Whit’s financial help. I’d do anything for that man.”
“Me, too. But now you have Lexie in your life. What did you two get into while you were away… apart from the
legal stuff that must have been difficult?”
By the time Norrie had finished raving about what a wonderful time they’d had, Demi felt a lot lighter about life in
general. Once she’d explained about Harold and Lefty’s upcoming visit, she’d brightened up considerably.
Making up her mind to look ahead and enjoy what life had to offer, she promised to come into town for the New
Year’s Eve festivities at the Glacier Inn. She even agreed to spend the night with Norrie before heading to Terrace the next day
to pick up Harold and Lefty.
During the next day with Glen sharing his time between the cabin and Rudy’s house, they had more chances than
ever to get closer. Over a meal of meatloaf, gravy, mashed potatoes, and the delicious corn on the cob she’d frozen in the fall,
they sat and caught up with each other’s lives.
Demi had to ask, “What happened when Rudy told his brothers about Fred’s passing?”
“You mean did he tell them he was gay?”
“That too.”
“I promised to stay with him while he admitted his truth. I wanted to be there as a backup. But you know what, they
were fine. Took the news well. Frank admitted he’d guessed, and the younger one, Brian, shook Rudy’s hand and said he was
glad the old man hadn’t found out. That’s when we told the boys what happened.”
“Good. I hoped you would.”
“It wasn’t easy… but necessary. Both of those guys had taken their share of beatings from Fred, dealing with his
black moods. Neither had any love for the man. According to them both, they’d only come back for their little brother’s sake.
Frank, who owns his own place in Ketchikan, wanted nothing to do with Fred’s business here, but Brian’s been jobless for
some time. He’s kind of a loner with his own drinking problem.”
“Not surprised.” Demi sighed with sadness. She’d seen that happen a lot. She’d heard it referred to as the circle of
life – a child growing up with an alcoholic parent then taking up the same vice as an adult.
“Yeah, me either. After hearing Fred’s story, they both had more sympathy for what the old shit had gone through...
Brian’s words, not mine. When Rudy willingly offered him a job with the possibility of working his way to half-owner, Brian
began to cry. Like he couldn’t believe anyone would be that good to him. He actually asked Rudy, ‘In all seriousness, you’d do
that for me?’
“I was so proud of the way Rudy answered him. ‘Of course. I remember the times you hid me and took the beatings
alone. You’re a good man, Brian. As long as you can control the boozing, we can make it work. Let’s say you give it a try and
see how things pan out.’”
By the time Glen had finished telling Demi how it all went down, she had to fight her own sorrow. “Jesus, Glen. I
saw so much of this kind of dysfunction working at the center. For some crazy reason, I didn’t understand how prevalent it is
among every walk of life. So many people are hurting and have social, never mind economic problems. I’m glad you two are
healthy now and can help Brian. Let’s have them over tomorrow for a meal so I can meet them.”
“They’d be thrilled to get a homecooked dinner. I’ll call later and let them know. Now… what about you? How are
you doing?”
“Me? I’m fine. Why?”
“Because you looked shattered when Whit left without you.”
“I’ll miss him.” She saw the mockery in Glen’s expression and added, “Okay. So, I hated seeing him leave again.
But you know I couldn’t go. Not with Harold and Lefty coming.”
“Why not? They’re just a couple old dudes you met once in Vancouver.”
“Oh no, Harold’s much more than that to me. He’s… he’s like the dad I never had.”
Settling in, pouring another cup of coffee, Glen reached to fill hers too. And then spoke. “Tell me.”
And so she did.
Chapter Eleven
The next two days went by so quickly, Demi swore she had whiplash. It all started when a tearful Norrie called
her. “Can you come into town? I need you.”
“Of course, I can. What’s up?” Instantly worried, Demi didn’t hesitate.
“Remember I told you about Charlie’s mom, Beth? How she disappears for a few nights sometimes?”
“Yep. Not impressed.”
“Me neither. But this time, she got back, went to work at the Inn, and they figure she took something… probably
cocaine. Hell, I don’t know. Sheriff figures whatever it was had to be laced with fentanyl. Thank God, he was in the bar at the
time and gave her a shot of naloxone. They brought her to the clinic, but Lexie isn’t sure she’ll make it. Says the woman’s
abused her body for years. Charlie’s withdrawn, won’t say anything. Just sits beside her and waits. It’s eerie. I don’t know
what to do.”
Stomach sinking with sorrow for the boy, she replied, “Why ask me?”
“Rudy told me you spoke to Glen… about working with kids at a center in Phoenix. Says you might know how to
handle a situation like this.”
Demi thought back to the night before when she’d broken her rule and let Glen in on her past. “I’ve had some
experience. Just not sure it’ll help in this situation. The kid doesn’t know me.”
“True. But he knows Whit… has asked about him every day. I hope that since he knows you two are involved, he
might turn to you.”
Demi didn’t have it in her to refuse. “Could happen. I’m on my way.”
She quickly put away the ingredients she’d taken out to bake bread and headed into town. Soon, she arrived at the
store where Norrie had been watching for her. Enfolded in a huge hug, Norrie’s tearful greeting made her stiffen. “What
happened?”
“Lexie just called. Beth died.”
“Oh, no. I’m so sorry. Where’s Charlie?”
“She’s bringing him here in a few minutes. Didn’t know what else to do with the kid.”
“Right. Okay. I guess you want me to talk to him.”
“Would you? It’s like he just suffers me. As much as I’ve tried to get close, it’s a no-go. God, I wish Whit were
here now.”
“Me, too. He’s still waiting on his test results. Then he’ll know if they’ll accept him into the trials.” Before she
finished, they both saw Lexie pull up in front of the store and watched Charlie get out of the passenger seat. Head down and
hands in his dirty, ragged coat pockets, he stomped through the falling snow and followed Lexie inside.
Signaling with a shake of her head that he still wasn’t talking, Lexie stepped toward Demi and reached for her
hand. “Happy to see you here. I want to introduce Charlie.”
When he hung back, she took his arm to pull him forward, and added, “Charlie, this is Demi Fedora. She’s Whit’s
lady, the woman I told you about.”
Sudden interest sparked in a face that had worn only fear. In the past, she’d seen that look many times. Terror of the
unknown was still preferred to the horror many escaped from. Poor Charlie had lost his mother. Nothing could be worse than
that. Well, other than an empty, frightening future.
Understanding there’d be limitations… that one couldn’t deal with Charlie like a normal kid, she stayed out of his
space and just said the words that most others had shied away from.
“I’m sorry about your mom, Charlie. Norrie told me she passed away. It’s tough, I know. Do you have any other
family we can call?”
“Just Whit.” Head down, the boy talked to the floor.
Stunned, Demi spoke louder than she intended. “Excuse me? Whit is your family?”
“No.” He grumbled the next words so low she had to strain to hear them. “There’s no one else I know.” He shrank
back but then thought best of running. Instead, he faced Demi.
“Mom…” here he swallowed hard before continuing. “I mean Beth ran away from her folks. I don’t know anything
about them. She never told me her real name… just Welch. Said she chose it from a can of grape drink.”
“Okay. So where else did you live?”
“We moved around a lot. But only in Alaska.”
“Did she tell you anything else about herself?”
“Nope. I stopped asking. She’d get mad.”
Lexie stepped in. “Charlie, we want to help you. Can you think of anyone we might be able to call so they can look
after you?”
Stubbornness appeared, and Charlie caught Demi’s eye, his green shockers drowning, yet glazed with a strange
kind of pride. In a voice growing louder, he reiterated. “I told you. Whit. He’s my friend.”
Before they could continue, Sheriff Dawson drove up to the store and joined them inside. “Hey, Charlie. I just
came from your room over the bar. Where’s the rest of your belongings?”
Charlie looked blank. “They’re all in the room. We brought everything with us.”
“Jesus.” With his head turned aside, Dawson muttered his disgust.
Norrie gestured to Charlie, “Why don’t you go and grab a package of whatever you like to eat and a drink… let us
talk?”
“Okay. Then I can shovel the snow from this morning.” He strode off to do as requested, and Norrie waved the
others to follow her. Once away from the boy’s hearing, she opened her hands in a gesture of frustration. “Now what do we
do?”
As Demi followed behind them, her phone rang. Glad to hear from Whit and be able to share their dilemma, she
answered. In a very few words, she explained about Beth and Charlie.
“Whit, when we asked him if he had any family, he could only name you… said you were his friend.”
“He’s right. I am his friend. Put me on speaker.”
Doing as requested, Demi held the phone out so they could all hear. “Dawson, what did you find so far?”
“That’s just it. There’s nothing. The gear I found in the room they shared is pitiful. A few changes of dirty clothes,
mostly hers, and toiletries. She didn’t have any identification other than a fake driver’s license. And Charlie’s no help. Says his
mom told him she changed her name, and he doesn’t even know what the real one is. Far as I can tell, the boy’s an orphan.”
Whit groaned. “Son of a bitch. That’s a shame. He’s a good kid.” There was a pause, and they all watched him look
to the distance before turning his eyes back to them and answering. “I want to help him. Can you keep him there until I get back.
Then we can decide what to do?”
“Sure. We’ll figure it out. Want to talk to him? So far he’s shut down to everyone but Demi.”
Whit grinned. “Why doesn’t that surprise me?”
Demi added, “I think it’s because Norrie told him I’m with you, and that seemed to make a difference. Look, you
want me to take him to the cabin with me until you get back? Glen’s been spending most of his time with Rudy and the boys, so
there’s room.”
“Good idea, thanks. Let me talk to him.”
Demi took the phone over to where Charlie sat nibbling on some crackers and cheese while immersed in a
paperback that looked well-read. She handed him the phone. “It’s Whit. He wants to talk to you.”
Face lighting up, Charlie took the cell in his shaking hand and let his eyes lift to see Whit. “Hi.” His voice
wobbled with emotion the youngster couldn’t hide.
“Hey, brat. Demi told me about your mom. I’m so damn sorry, Charlie. But don’t worry. If it’s okay with you, Demi
wants you to go and stay with her at the cabin. The one I told you about. She’ll keep you with her until I get back. Then we’ll
talk.”
“You mean the one where the wolf lives?”
“Yep. Nito’s around a lot. No doubt you’ll get to meet him. You gonna do as I ask?”
“Sure. Okay, Whit. I won’t do nuthin’ bad. I promise.”
“Never had a doubt. You reading those chapters like I asked you to do?”
“Every one of them.” Charlie cleared his throat and added, “Truth is, I finished the book and started reading it for
the second time.”
“Hey. Good job. There’s a bunch of reading at the cabin for you to choose another story. And, if you like reading so
much, talk to Demi. Remember? I told you she writes books.”
Within a short time, Demi found herself with a garbage bag filled with dirty clothes and a forlorn,
uncommunicative kid sitting beside her in the truck’s seat.
Shaking her head, her thoughts in a tangle, she groaned inwardly. Another lost kid. Would she ever get away from
orphans and needy souls?
***
Understanding that Charlie didn’t talk a lot, she let him be until they pulled up outside her home. Once there, she
parked Blue and then led Charlie to the front door, telling him about the rope and why they had it tied between the parking area
and the porch.
“You ever have to use it?”
“Yep. Saved my life not too long ago. Well, Nito did when he got me this far. Then I used it to guide me to the front
door. Never really understood how cold forty below could be. Froze my feet and hands and parts of my face. Took a long time
to heal. Freezing’s no picnic so you have to be careful, right?”
“Okay.”
Suddenly, Demi heard the wolf before she saw him. “Nito, stop growling. You’ll scare Charlie. He’s having a
tough day so be good.”
The boy pushed into her space, and she suddenly had the unexpected urge to hug him even closer. Hmm… strange.
“It’s fine, Charlie. Nito’s just being a brat. You’re a stranger and he doesn’t like me being near people he doesn’t
know. Just stand still, and he’ll come to you.”
Sure enough, the wolf prowled closer to investigate and stood in front of her and Charlie. She saw his nose
working as he smelled the air, almost like he was sniffing the boy’s character. Step by slow step he approached, majestic as
hell, his huge head at a proud angle.
Demi, trying to help Charlie relax, pulled him to sit beside her on the porch steps, knowing that Nito would follow.
He did, laying in front of them as if on guard.
Then she told the tale of how the canine had been shot not that long ago, and the proof showed in the scar still
noticeable on his shoulder.
“Right over there. This wild animal tackled a crazy man with a gun and saved my life.”
“Whoa, true? He’s a hero.”
“Yep. He’s my hero. Wanna know a secret?”
“Sure.”
Demi could see that as they talked, both the boy and the wolf had begun to relax. “I’ve always been terrified of
dogs, hated them actually. One bit me when I was a kid, and I never grew out of the fear that I’d be attacked again.”
“Were you?”
“Sure. This little nutcase did a good job of it when I tried to save his life.” By the time Demi had told the story of
her adventures with Nito in the fire, she could see Charlie had begun to accept her.
As if that mattered to Nito, the wolf came close enough for Charlie to touch him, pat him, and then went to the door,
expecting to be allowed inside. Jumping up, Demi opened the door and sure enough, Pearl sat on the other side, mewing her
dislike of being kept from her best friend.
As the animals went towards the banked fire, Demi showed Charlie to Glen’s room. “Make yourself at home.
Don’t know how long it’ll be before Whit returns. Until then, you’ll be here with Nito and me. Okay?”
The boy nodded. Standing alone, his eyes huge, he looked terrified… like he hadn’t a friend in the world.
One of the hardest things for Demi to do was to push aside her own insecurities. Hadn’t she been forced to do this
at the center more times than she wanted to remember? Yet, when it came to needy kids, something inside her released those
impenetrable walls. They’d open, allowing them to see the sincerity of caring she felt for them.
Approaching slowly, she knelt in front of Charlie. “I know you’re scared, Charlie. Truth is, I grew up as an orphan,
spent my early years as a foster kid in the system. Just so you know, you don’t have to be afraid when you’re with me.
Nobody’s going to hurt you. I promise.”
Bravely, the kid nodded, refusing to speak. Yet the tight expression on his pale face had lightened. He backed away
from her familiarity and threw his plastic bag on the bed. “Do you want I should shovel the porch? I know how to work hard.”
Understanding their moment had passed, she answered lightly. “Not right now. I have two visitors arriving
tomorrow, and I’ve run out of my homemade bread. I could sure use some help making a batch.”
“You want I should help?”
“Yes, please.”
“I can try.”
“I’ll show you how.” She led the way into the kitchen area. “Good thing I still have four slices left for the hot beef
sandwiches we’ll be making for supper. Once the bread’s in the oven rising, I’ll get our supper ready, and you my friend can
shovel the porch. Deal?”
“Deal.” His satisfied reaction made Demi understand she’d hit the right note with Charlie. He needed to feel
needed.
Good.
Because she needed to help.
Chapter Twelve
By the time she and Glen were on the way to pick up the oldies from the airport, Demi admitted that even though
life here in Alaska made her happier than she’d ever been before, it certainly held a lot of unexpected challenges.
Thinking back to the night before, and how after they’d eaten, Charlie had asked for permission to go to his room
and read. Probably wanting to get away from her.
“Of course, you can. First, let me show you how to use the washer and dryer so we can get those clothes of yours
looking better. Okay?”
“Sure.”
She’d led him into the bathroom where Whit and Glen had installed a stack set of appliances that ranked high in her
affections. Her two thoughtful guys had surprised her with the unexpected gift on her birthday. Not having to pack loads of
laundry to town had been a lifesaver, especially once the snow hit.
It hadn’t taken long to understand that the kid had two small loads, one light and one dark, and all rather pitifully in
bad shape. Sweet Jesus, not only did the kid’s body look scrawny, but he had no clothes worth keeping. They would all need to
be replaced.
Demi couldn’t help but see the shame he tried to hide. And not wanting to step on his pride, her comments were
tactful as hell. “Looks like you’ve shot up lately. It’s normal to grow out of your clothes when you’re a kid. How about when
you get your next paycheck, we put some orders in on Amazon?”
“I don’t know how?”
“Hey, I’m a pro at ordering online. I’ll show you.”
“Okay. Can I go to my room now?” He held a pile of books she’d given him permission to choose from. Seeing his
face light up from the stash in his arms, she was glad Whit had mentioned his sudden love of reading.
“Sure. But before you go, I need to tell you something.”
From the closed look on Charlie’s face when she explained about leaving him at Norrie’s on New Year’s Eve and
then the next day, she knew he’d taken it as a brush-off. He’d nodded stoically as if used to being dumped.
Feeling guilty, she explained, “Hey, I’d bring you with us on the drive to Terrace but there’s simply no room in the
truck. Remember I told you about Harold and Lefty? They’re too old to be squished for such a long drive, and they’ll have a lot
of gear between them.”
Charlie had squirmed while lying. “I don’t care. I’ll stay with Norrie and catch up on my chores in the store. I
didn’t get my work done today, so I lost wages.”
“Hell, Charlie. Norrie will pay you for the day and put it down as bereavement leave. I told you that.”
“Okay, I guess so. But I don’t mind working a double shift.”
Double shift? Where’d he hear that? Grinning, she sighed. “Fine. I’ll pick you up when we get back to town.”
***
Driving with Glen gave her the opportunity to discuss Charlie. Though they didn’t come up with any acceptable
options other than finding the kid a home in their general area, they covered a lot of possibilities.
Finally, Demi changed the subject. “I’m glad we had Rudy and his brothers over before all this happened. They
seemed to enjoy the roast we cooked. In fact, I never saw men eat so much. Good thing, I had two apple pies and loads of ice
cream. I swear Brian ate half a pie himself.”
Glen shrugged. “My friend, not everyone can make a roast taste like you do. Your gravy is to die for, and according
to Rudy, the guys talked about those yorkies and pies most of the way home.”
“I guess it’s true that the best way to a man’s heart is through his stomach.” Demi giggled at her comment.
Glen’s sudden serious agreement let her know something cheeky would follow.
“It must be the reason Whit’s stuck around.”
She lightly punched at his arm. “Quit teasing. You know Whit likes me for my brains.”
Both laughing, they carried on talking about other subjects… like the folks at the New Year’s Eve party. “It was
good to see Lexie and Norrie enjoying themselves so much.”
“Yeah, and Dawson and Margie were dancing up a storm. For once, the town appears to be in a calm state.”
Glen reminded her of her own dilemma. “Other than yourself and Charlie. Where did you stash him during the
festivities last night?”
“He wanted to stay at Norrie’s with her cats. I couldn’t bring him to the dance and put him through the torture of
being fawned over by the moms in town. We know they’re only sharing their sadness for his plight, but it could be
overwhelming for a kid who’s lacking in social skills.”
“Good. You did the right thing.”
Demi looked over at the smiling man sitting so casually behind the wheel of Whit’s big truck. Speaking of good
things, she thought back to the first time she saw Glen. What a change. Handsome devil that he was now, healthy in body and a
clear gaze. It made her heart swell.
“Hey, what’s the latest on Whit’s situation? I meant to ask earlier.”
“Turns out, he rushed there and then got held up as the trial was again pushed out a few more days. His own doctor
did follow through on the examination he insisted on, but all the test results aren’t in yet. Poor guy’s sitting on pins and needles
waiting.”
“That can’t be going well. Never knew a dude who hated being left to twiddle his thumbs so much.”
“See… you get him too. He’s livid about the delay. I asked him what the rest of the trial entailed?”
“You mean like an operation?”
“Right. But Whit didn’t know if they would be operating or if it just meant taking shots or even pills. He has to wait
to talk with the guy in charge. Once he’s told if he’s a candidate, I guess they’ll go into more details. It’s maddening as hell
when a person doesn’t know what to expect.”
“I can imagine. But knowing Whit, he’ll come through with no problem. He’s a winner, that man.”
“That’s true. Oh look, I think we just made it in time. There’s a plane landing.”
Rushing to get into the airport with Glen right behind her, Demi flew through the arrivals entrance and was
anxiously waiting when Harold and Lefty were the first to arrive through the doors.
“Harold.” Demi waved and rushed toward him, slowing down with shyness as she closed in. Harold would have
none of that nonsense. He reached for her and hugged her hard. “Demi, my girl. You’re a sight for sore eyes.” He continued to
hold onto her hand until forced to release it.
Once the rest of the introductions were made, and while they still had daylight, they took the oldies for lunch and a
short drive around the city before heading to Hyder.
At one point, Lefty sneakily brushed up against Demi and whispered, “Harry’s faking his strength. Best not keep
him out too long.”
Demi gave him a sad smile in reply, but then addressed the group. “Time to head home. Pearl and Nito need to be
fed. First we’ll drop you at Whit’s house, the place we arranged for you to stay. We’ve set everything up there, so you’ll be
very comfy. A big dish of stew is in the fridge and can be heated when you’re ready to eat.”
Lefty spoke for them both. “No problem. I work a mean microwave.”
Laughing, Demi added, “I’m hoping once you’ve had a chance to rest well tonight, and if you’re feeling up to it, I’ll
bring you to the cabin tomorrow so we can spend more time catching up.”
Purposely turning to watch the road, within a few moments, she heard the sounds of snoring and looked back to see
Harold out cold with his head leaning against Lefty’s shoulder.
What a precious sight? Lefty caught her peeking and winked at her, making her heart swell with the joy of their
arrival. Seconds later, her heart twisted painfully, accepting the truth… Harold was very sick.
Chapter Thirteen
The next morning in her cabin, she looked at Charlie eating breakfast and felt her heart melt at the memory of the
day before. When she’d arrived at Norrie’s to pick him up, he’d worn a shocked expression before a smile lit his pale freckled
face and had his green eyes glowing with relief.
“You came.”
“Of course. I promised, didn’t I? Wanna grab your gear, and we’ll head home?”
Norrie finished with her customer and interrupted. “Hey, don’t rush off. Stay and eat with me.”
Demi saw Charlie’s expression tighten and shook her head. “Thanks. But it’s been a long day. I think we need to get
home, feed the beasts, and have an early night. Okay with you, Charlie?”
“Yeah. Good.” He rushed to get his parka and the latest book he’d brought with him.
Norrie sidled closer and whispered. “I paid him his wages today. The kid’s thrilled, insisted I take back half the
money to pay for the book Whit had given him, and the cans of stuff he’d stolen. I told him it was way too much.”
“What did he say?”
Norrie chuckled. “Said it was just a downpayment.”
Demi laughed.
“When I asked him just how much stuff he took, he hid his blushes… said he’d never do it again. Goddamn, Demi. I
wanted to hug him so bad, I had to back away.”
“Good for him. Means he’s got a conscience. Whit is gonna be pleased.”
“That’s just it. He told me – a guy’s gotta work for what he needs. Said Whit taught him that.”
Demi’s pride grew. She shared a smile with Norrie before heading to the door where Charlie stood impatiently
waiting.
Now… watching the boy trying to eat slowly and not gobble down his food as he no doubt wanted to do, she
silently complimented him but said nothing.
“Have another toast? I can make more.”
Happily, Charlie reached for the last slice and took the jar of blueberry jam she passed over.
“Do you want more eggs?”
“No.”
She waited, and he seemed to know why.
“I mean, no thanks. Two is lots. Your toast is the best I’ve ever tasted.”
“Why thank you kind sir. It’s from the homemade bread you helped me make the other day. It takes a bit of effort,
but I believe it’s worth it in the end.”
“Me, too.” He looked up at her shyly, jam smeared on his cheek, and an unusual smile in his eyes. “I got paid
yesterday.”
Demi had waited for him to say something. Pleased that he’d shared, she asked, “Hey, that’s great. So…what are
you planning to do with your money?”
He reached into his pocket and pulled out a twenty. “This is for my room and board. Once I finish paying Norrie
back what I owe her, I’ll give you all of it.”
Stunned, Demi slid from her chair and knelt in front of his. Not allowing him to shrink away from her, she took the
hand holding the money in hers and wound his fingers around the bill. Then she spoke very slowly, making sure he understood
her words. “Charlie, remember when I told you that I grew up in a foster home?”
“Yeah.”
“Well, they were real bad people… mean-hearted and stingy. I swore if I ever got a chance to help another kid like
me, an orphan, I’d never treat them so bad. You’re that kid. I can’t take your money, and before you say what I know your
gonna… you’re welcome to stay here with me for as long as you want to. Let’s just put it down to me helping a friend.”
Charlie swallowed. He cleared his throat. Yet his words still came out all croaky sounding. “If I can’t pay, I can
work.” Earnestly, he added, “I need to.”
“Tell me. Why is paying so important?”
“My mom didn’t pay, and we got thrown out of a lot of places. Or we had to run away.” Remembering the
indignities they went through, Charlie’s voice hardened. “I hated it.” He bit down on his wobbling lip and stopped talking.
“And you figure you’ll need to run away from me if it’s not a money arrangement.”
“Ye-ah.” He sniffed and wouldn’t look her in the eye. “It’s good out here.”
“I know. Same way I feel. Okay, I’ll make you a deal. I hate bringing in the wood and doing the supper dishes
alone. How about you take on those chores as payment for you staying here? Would that be okay?”
“Yeah.” Charlie brightened up considerably. “I’ll get some wood now.”
“Hold up. We still need to talk. How about we order some clothes for you that fit… if you want brand new. If not,
Norrie gave me a big box of stuff that the ladies in town dropped off at the store. Things their own kids grew out of. Now, if
you don’t want hand-me-downs, I understand. Lord knows, I grew up in them myself. But if you’d rather use your money to
order new things, we can do it together.”
“A boxload?” His eyes were huge. “I don’t mind wearing other folks’ clothes. My mom only bought me stuff from
the thrift stores, so I’m used to it. I can save my money for books.” Pleased with this idea, he looked to see if she had anything
else to add.
Backing away, knowing it was enough serious discussion for now, she stood up. “Great, you load up this wood box
from the shed I showed you yesterday, and I’ll clean the kitchen. Then we can go pick up Harold and Lefty, the two old guys I
told you about.”
“You mean the sick man from Vancouver?”
“Yep. He’s the one that sold me Blue, my truck. And he gave me a garage-full of gear he swore I’d need to live
here in Alaska. Most of it I’m still using.”
“Have you known him long?”
“Never met the man before that day. Same with Lefty. He owns a restaurant Harold took me to. I’ll tell you the
story on the way to town. Let’s move. I don’t want to keep them waiting. Oh, and I put that box in your room in case you
decided to keep some of the gear.”
Happy now, Charlie raced to his room. A short time later, he appeared wearing an outfit that looked like new.
Jeans way too long, a flannel shirt a bit too big, and warm socks, all were different colors and nothing matching.
Demi stifled the laugh trying to break loose.
“I’ll just get that wood.” The boy grabbed his torn parka and floppy boots and rushed from the house, only to be
met by a wolf still not sure about this new human.
Demi scrubbed at the frosted window to get a view and watched as Charlie stood still, letting Nito approach.
Making sure the boy hadn’t frozen in fear, she looked at his relaxed face and knew that wasn’t so. He had stopped as a kind of
tribute to Nito, a way to show respect and of not provoking him.
The wolf approached, sniffed Charlie’s face, and then snorted with acceptance before coming to growl at the door.
Charlie turned back and opened it for the animal and then ran off to gather his armload.
***
Demi felt good seeing her Vancouver family relaxing around the kitchen table after they’d filled up on the lunch
she’d served. The salmon steaks had disappeared quickly as did the little golden potatoes and sweet peas she’d grown in her
garden.
Both Harold and Lefty had caught her up on all their news and were now pestering her to tell them stories about her
life in Alaska.
“Okay, but first, we need to go and relax in the living room. These chairs get hard on the tush if we stay in them too
long.” Demi made sure not to look at Harold when she said that, but she’d seen him wince a time or two.
Charlie, who’d stayed to visit with the oldies, jumped up. “I’ll clean the table.”
“You will? Thanks, bud. I’d appreciate that.” Wanting the boy to hear what she had to say, she made sure to speak a
bit louder. The stories she would tell were ones he could listen to.
Once they were settled, she described her first few weeks in Hyder, and her meeting Glen and Whit. Without going
into any damaging details, she described life at the beginning and how different her new world had suddenly become. About
how they all fixed the cabin together, fished and gardened, storing food for the winter.
She elaborated on the story of saving the wolf pup and how that decision had paid her back tenfold. The
descriptions of him saving her life not once but twice kept the males mesmerized, as well as the boy who’d snuck into the
room, sitting on the floor against the wall, his rapt attention never wavering.
Soon, her voice began to give out, and she looked over to see Harold fast asleep. Motioning to both Lefty and
Charlie, she pointed to the kitchen. When they followed her, she whispered, “Wanna go for a walk? There’s a blue sky and it’s
sunny today. Let’s take advantage of the unusual, good weather.”
They quickly dressed and headed outside, Charlie in the direction of the wood shed. “Hey, Charlie. Just leave the
pile by the door so you don’t wake Harold.”
He waved to let her know he’d heard. “Okay.”
Once alone, she took Lefty’s arm to be sure he didn’t lose his footing, and they made their way slowly to where she
parked her truck. The road had been plowed from there and easy to walk on. “Harold doesn’t look good, does he? He’s lost so
much weight.”
“Since you last saw him, yes. I guess he overdid things getting ready for the trip. But I haven’t seen him this happy
for a long time. Being here with you, it’s the best medicine in the world.”
“I’m glad.” Demi felt herself getting choked up over Lefty’s words.
“All he could talk about last night was being back in the mountains again and seeing your pretty face. I swear, if he
died today, he’d go happy. Best thing a man could ask for.”
Surprised at the total acceptance of death, Demi slowly released the dread she’d had twisting in her guts since she
saw her friend at the airport. If his best buddy believed Harold would go happy because of seeing her, then she’d accept the
truth of it.
“I’m glad he’s here. Yet now that I’ve seen how weak he is, I can’t help but worry about him living alone in
Vancouver.”
“I know. When I went to help him get ready, I noticed the house is a mess. In fact, Harry was embarrassed. For
years, taking care of the place where he and Gloria knew such happiness kept him busy and content. Now, it’s too much for a
sick man.”
“Oh, Lefty, what will happen to him?”
The old man turned to her, letting her see the fear and sadness in his rheumy eyes. “I do the best I can, honey. But
he’ll have to go to a home soon. He’s taken a few falls, and by the grace of God was able to drag himself up. Now, I doubt he
has the strength to do it anymore.”
“Would he be able to stay here… where I could take care of him?”
“He’d never ask it of you. He loves you Demi. Wants you to have a good life, not to look after a sick old man.”
“Christ, Lefty. I want to. He’s been more of a family to me than anyone else in my whole life. We’ve shared so
many moments both in our letters and then on the phone. I feel like I know him and his big old generous heart. It kills me to
think of him being sick and alone.”
Lefty put his arm around her and pulled her close to his side. “Other than Gloria, in the short time you’ve known
each other, you’ve made that old man very happy. He never had kids, never had much of a life after he lost his wife. You’ve
given him that special something money couldn’t buy… family. He loves you. But even better than that, he knows you care
about him. That’s worth more than you could imagine.”
To hide her tears, Demi put her face on the closest shoulder and blocked the crippling emotions that fought to be
free. “I wish I’d known him as a young man. He must have been really something.”
“I can tell you this, he could get my whole restaurant laughing from his antics. And Gloria would just smile and
watch his goofing around with pride. She loved that man something terrible. In the past, he had a good life. Our Harry’s never
been one to complain.”
Demi began walking again, knowing that to stay in one place for too long would let the cold seep through their
warm clothes. Before she could say anything more, Charlie came running up. Thinking how wonderful it was to see the boy
looking healthy rather than pale and sad, she greeted him with a smile. “Hey kiddo.”
Now all three continued walking together with Charlie making snowballs and throwing them into the forest. He’d
watch the piles of snow high in the trees shatter from the force of his missiles.
Just as they reached a curve in the road ahead, Demi heard a strange screaming sound… like that of an animal in
pain. Suddenly, Nito appeared. She’d seen him trailing them every so often, as he tended to do if she left the cabin. Guessing he
didn’t like the appearance of yet another stranger with her, he’d kept his distance.
Now, he came barreling out towards her. He’d bark, and then turn back swiftly to bound into the trees. He’d stop
and then do the same maneuver again. Instinctively knowing he wanted her to follow him, she made up her mind. “Charlie, stay
here with Lefty. It’s too deep for him to crawl through those snowbanks. Nito’s showing me there’s a problem. Plus, I can hear
that something’s in trouble.”
“Okay, Demi. But it could be dangerous. Maybe you shouldn’t go in there alone.” The stark fear on the boy’s face
made her hesitate until she heard the screams intensify.
“Don’t worry, Nito won’t let anything hurt me, and he wouldn’t be wanting me to go there if it was unsafe.” Before
they could argue more, the sounds of the distressed animal became even louder. Without sticking around to argue, Demi began
plowing through the piles of snow to where Nito waited near the trees. Once she reached that area, it became much easier to
travel.
In a few minutes, she watched the wolf turn again, stopping beside a small pile of brush. Seeing it moving, she
stepped forward cautiously. Once she closed in, the animal in distress thrashed around in a state of shock. Leaning in carefully,
she made out the thrasher to be a fawn. It looked to be five or six months old and very thin.
Glancing around, she looked for the mother and could see by the new fallen snow, there’d been no recent tracks.
“Nito, I think the baby’s alone, and she’s hurt.” The back leg lay in a bad angle, and it seemed obvious the deer
couldn’t stand. Still crying in terror and pain, the poor thing again tried to flee from obvious threats of the wolf and the human.
But not having the strength, it collapsed and lay gasping.
Nito approached, whining his worry, no threat at all to the baby. Except the fawn didn’t know she was safe.
“Nito, come here. You’re scaring her more by getting so close. I don’t know how we can carry her out of here
without hurting her more.” Demi put her hand on Nito’s back to keep him next to her and then pulled out her phone to call Doc
Harper, the vet in town.
 Once she described the situation, he gave her instructions on how to set the leg between branches so it couldn’t
move and then bring the baby in to his office.
Gathering the wood she’d need to place along both sides of the poor leg,
careful to approach slowly, she crooned to the wild animal, her tone as soft as she could make it. “It’s okay, baby. I
won’t hurt you.” Once she was close enough, she put her scarf over the fawn’s face and that seemed to settle the frightened
thing so that it stopped flailing around.
Realizing her error, knowing it could have been used to tie the leg up, shivering from the cold, she undid her parka,
slipped it off long enough to remove her top sweater before replacing the outer wear as quickly as possible. Once she had that
article of clothing, she moved to the side where the doe couldn’t hurt her by kicking out. There she placed the sticks she’d
gathered on either side of the injury.
Then she slid her sleeve of the sweatshirt under the works and began to tie everything in place, scared that she
could be doing it all wrong. Nonetheless, it was the best she knew how to do.
Once the leg seemed secure, she wrapped the scarf around the fawn’s head permanently so it couldn’t bite at her.
Looking around, she spied a cedar branch that would do as a bed. Leaning down, struggling to keep her balance, she picked the
fawn up in her arms, crooning all the while.
Thankful for having spent months carrying loads of wood - though one shoulder felt much weaker than the other -
she took on the wriggling weight long enough to place her captive on the branch.
“Shush, baby. Demi’s not going to hurt you. I’m trying to help you. Calm down sweetheart.”
All she needed to do now was get to the side of the road where Charlie and Lefty were waiting. Taking her time,
thankful that the snow wasn’t as high here, she gripped the end of the branch and pulled it carefully behind her. Finally, she got
to the edge of the tree line where she made out the other two dancing around to keep warm.
“Charlie, I need your help. Can you get to me?” She yelled the words, knowing the fawn would react, and it did…
almost twisting off the branch. With all her might, she held it down until it settled again. There would be no way she could
crawl through the snowbanks and carry the squirmer at the same time, so she needed it to stay safe on the made-up platform.
Charlie bound through the snow like a rabbit, mostly not sinking too much. “What’s that you have there, Demi?”
His eyes were glowing with excitement now that he saw her. And his reddened cheeks wore a huge grin of relief at seeing her
unhurt.
“It’s a fawn. She’s got an injured leg. I couldn’t find any sign of her mother. It appears that she’s on her own, poor
thing. Look, I need something better that we can slide her back home on. Can you get to the woodshed and fetch one of the
sled’s we use for the snowmobile?”
“Sure. But I think Lefty’s getting really cold. Maybe he should come with me.”
“No way young man. I can help Demi get the animal she’s got there to the road.”
Demi looked up to see Lefty halfway to them and struggling to get closer. “Lefty, you shouldn’t exert yourself like
this. It’s too much for you.”
“Baloney! I work hard at my restaurant and keep in good shape at the gym. I might look as ancient as Harold, but
the old fart’s got eight years on me, and he’s still in his seventies. Here, let me help you.”
“I’ll be back as soon as I can.” Charlie took off and reached the road in no time, disappearing around the bend.
Between them, Lefty helped pull the fawn step by careful step. At one point, the man fell, and Demi took on the full
weight before he brought them all down with him.
Cursing under his breath, he apologized. “Sorry, my foot hit something that moved.” He tried using his arms to push
himself back up except that his weight made him sink. Cursing under his breath, he rolled on his back and with a huge thrust, he
forced his body to first sit and then stand. Struggling mightily, his face flushed from the exertion plus the cold, with a hand from
Demi, he gained his balance, and Demi breathed a sigh of relief.
It seemed to take them forever before they reached the flat surface of the road and by that time Demi was thrilled to
see Charlie barreling toward them, pulling the sled behind him.
Once he got close enough, Demi made out the old blanket he’d grabbed from the cabin. “Hey, bud. Good thinking.
We can keep the baby wrapped up, so he doesn’t move and fall off.”
Between the three of them, they bundled up the animal and then Demi removed the scarf to use it as an added strap.
Now the poor fawn could see them. Hearing their voices had to have been traumatic enough but actually being this close, the
wild animal again began to flail. Until Nito moved to the side of the sled and growled.
For some strange reason unknown to Demi, the deer instantly settled. It laid there quietly, and she blessed Nito
under her breath before gathering the straps. With Charlie on the other side, they hauled their precious cargo toward the cabin.
Waiting for them, Harold came onto the porch, his face alight with interest. “You’ve been gone so long, I got
worried. What’s that you have there?”
Charlie piped up before the others could speak. “It’s a baby. A deer baby. Nito and Demi saved it’s life.”
Chapter Fourteen
By the time Demi and Charlie were on their way back to the cabin with their forest waif settled on the rear seat,
Demi could hardly believe their adventures that day.
Charlie, never one to say much, couldn’t seem to stop talking, especially once they were alone. It was like he’d
saved it all up for their drive home.
“Harold sure liked the deer.” Charlie explained in some detail everything Harold had told him about the animal.
“And Lefty, he’s a pretty tough old guy. He made us a good lunch, right? And Doc Harper sure knows his stuff. I like his clinic.
He has dogs, two sick rabbits, a mink, and lots of kittens.”
“Yep. He does.”
The kid finally took a short break after his last statement but only for a few minutes. “Demi what can we name
her?”
“Her?”
“The fawn.”
“You think about it. Take your time and then let me know what you’ve come up with.”
Silence.
Finally.
It had been a whirlwind over the last few hours. By the time they had gotten the poor animal to the vet’s, with
Charlie insisting on riding in the back seat of the truck with the fawn while Lefty and Harold rode in front with her, they were
relieved to get to the clinic safely.
Doc Harper did an examination, made a diagnosis that the leg had a clean break and wove his magic in the
following operation. He gave her the medication she’d need when the fawn woke up and showed her how to prepare food to
keep the baby from starving. Otherwise, she and Charlie were on their own. Doc couldn’t keep the baby at the clinic. Too many
other animals to care for already.
Thinking about Whit and how she wished he could have been with them during this situation, she decided she’d
call him as soon as they got home. Usually, he’d be the one to call her but this time, she couldn’t wait.
Remembering one of their last conversations, she grinned and let her memory return to New Year’s Eve at five
minutes after midnight. She’d kept her phone close and wasn’t at all surprised when it rang just after the celebrations.
“Hi. I hoped you’d call.” Demi ran into the washroom for privacy and was breathless.
“You okay, you sound winded.”
“I ran to the bathroom so I could hear you. It’s too loud to carry on a conversation in the bar.”
“Did you doubt that I’d call?”
“Wasn’t sure… but glad you did.”
“I wanted to give you time to celebrate with the others at midnight so it’s a few minutes after the hour. Happy New
Year, darling.”
“Happy New Year, Whit. I wish you were here with us tonight. Everyone’s in such a good mood. And they’re all
asking about you. I don’t know what to tell them. I just say that you’re waiting to hear.”
“Pretty much the truth until earlier. Got the news late this afternoon that they aren’t letting me into the trials.”
Not understanding why he sounded so relieved about what she considered terrible news, she commiserated. “I’m
so sorry, Whit. Why aren’t you upset? Going all that way and spending so much for nothing, I’d be furious and miserable at the
same time.”
“I would be too if the news wasn’t this great. The reason they wouldn’t accept me is because my problem seems to
be healing on its own. Doc says my eyesight is coming along extremely well, and the consensus is that I wouldn’t benefit
enough from their help.”
“Oh, Whit. That is super great news. I’m thrilled for you. When can you come home?”
“That’s just it, they want to do some final tests before I leave, and because it’s the holiday, they can’t book me for a
few days. I’ll have to get back to you about the date.” His voice lowered. “Just so you know, I’d get on the next flight if they
weren’t so insistent. I miss the hell outta you, baby.” The throaty sound of suppressed passion came through clearly.
Demi melted instantly. Before she could stop herself, she groaned. “Oh, man. I wish you were here. I miss you so
much. Everyone’s having such a good time with their partners tonight. The whole town seems to be in a great mood. Makes me
feel even more alone.” Admitting that fact took a lot of courage, and she blamed it on the tequila shooters she’d had earlier
with Norrie and Lexie.
“Jesus, I want to hold you so bad, it’s killing me. The last time we were together, I had so much to tell you and no
time.”
“Oh God, me too.”
A loud sigh came over the line followed by a groan from his end. “Not like this, baby. But when I get home, it’ll be
just us. I promise.”
Demi grinned at his determination, spoken in such a no-nonsense tone. She had no doubt he meant what he said. Not
willing to mess up the mood by mentioning her promise to Charlie, she answered softly, “Agreed. Now tell me what you’re
doing to celebrate.” She’d had to change the subject, or she wouldn’t have been able to sleep that night. Cravings of having her
man beside her… inside her, would have kept her awake for sure.
“Just having a few drinks from the mini bar and watching old movies. How’s the kid doing? Is he showing any
signs of breaking down over his mom’s passing… what’s her name, Beth?”
“Not yet. He’s very quiet. Spends a lot of his spare time reading. Like I told you before, he does chores for his
room and board, and he’s always polite, but a sad little guy that needs more time, I think.”
“I agree. Can’t expect a kid to get over losing his mom, even a bad one like Beth, overnight. I’ll work with him
when I get there. I’m sure it’s going to help having the two oldies around. It’ll keep his mind off his troubles.”
Thinking about Harold and Lefty brought Demi back to the present moment. She found Charlie watching her
closely. Feeling a bit uncomfortable, she said, “What’s wrong? Do I have muck on my face?”
He laughed. “Muck? What’s that?”
“Dirt. Stuff. You know… muck.”
His face alight from her teasing tone, he shook his head. “No, it’s just your hair glows red in the light from the
moon. It’s right behind you outside of the window. I wish I could take a picture.”
“Seriously? Go ahead.” She slowed to a crawl. “My new cellphone’s on the dash. Take your picture if you want
to.” Demi liked that Charlie had an interest in something other than reading. Plus, she felt the tender tone in his voice right
through to her heart. He’d spoken with affection, and it thrilled her that he viewed her in such a way.
Not wanting to end the conversation, she added, “While you’re at it, you can begin filming the fawn too. How about
we make like a daily calendar of events about how the little one gets on. Doc says it’s a white-tailed deer and feels it’s a
female because of the flat head and no pedicles for antlers… or at least that’s what I think he called them.”
“I’ll read up about it on the internet. If you don’t mind that I use your phone.”
“Sure you can. And my laptop when I’m not on it. Do up a summary of what you find out, and then you can teach me
too.”
Charlie chuckled, his voice appearing rusty like it wasn’t something he did often. “You sound like a school
teacher.”
She chuckled. “I did, didn’t I? You like school?”
“Not really. Well, I guess I like learning stuff but not the other kids. They’re mean. Besides, I didn’t always get to
go.”
Stiffening, yet hiding it, she posed for him to get his shot of her and then she spoke. “Why not?”
He began to fidget, and she regretted mentioning the subject while driving and unable to watch his reactions.
Taking the chance to swing her eyes from the road, she turned to see him squirming.
“You’re going to be mad.”
“Am not. Tell me.” Swerving, she quickly turned her attention back to the snowbound tracks she drove through.
“Beth… ahh, my mom, she didn’t care if I went to school all the time. Lots of days I had to stay home and look after
her. Cause she’d get sick.”
“Right. Okay. But did you want to go?”
“Sometimes. I guess. When I was little, yeah. Now, not so much. It’s hard to keep up in class. I never had the things
I needed, and kids don’t share. The nice teachers often gave me scribblers and pens, you know that kind of stuff, but when we
had to ru… leave, mostly I couldn’t take a lot of stuff with me.”
“I understand, Charlie. I knew quite a few kids that were in the same situation back in Phoenix. But here, the
teachers are pretty cool. They can determine how you’re doing and help you find the right classes at your level.”
“You want I should go to school?” Perplexed, it showed in his startled question.
“Of course, you have to go to school. I’m surprised the authorities didn’t catch on that you weren’t going.”
“No one said anything to me. But Beth made me stay inside a lot. Except when she needed me to steal stuff.”
He said the latter as if he accepted it as normal. Demi shivered at the thought of what Charlie’s earlier life must
have been like. Poor kid. Keeping her thoughts to herself, she watched the road and didn’t answer.
As if he knew what he’d said might have shocked her, he added, “I won’t steal anymore, and I can read better now.
Whit showed me.”
Knowing she had to put him at ease, she ignored the first part of his remark and said, “Good. It’ll be easier
catching up. Especially with help.”
Charlie nodded almost too enthusiastically… like he couldn’t quite believe, but desperately wanted to. “Whit will
help me. He told me so.”
“Of course, he will. And hey, I’m no Einstein but I’m not a dummy either. I can work with you too. Right?”
 Charlie seemed to take a while before answering as if it was a very serious decision. Demi waited to hear what
he’d say before breaking the silence. When he spoke, his voice had lowered. “Do you want to?”
“Of course.”
“I mean… you don’t have to.”
“No. But what if I like helping you?”
“Okay.” He sniffed. “I’ll take a picture of the fawn now.”
Demi got the message – subject’s closed. Just as well. They’d arrived. She pulled up in front of the cabin on
purpose and shivered when remembering the last time she’d parked the truck here. Shaking off the old memory, she quickly got
them organized to carry the fawn carefully in to the cabin. The leg cast doc set in place had to be carefully maneuvered.
When she saw Nito step out of the darkness, she hid her grin. She’d expected him to be there, so no surprise.
Chapter Fifteen
The next few days were full for Demi.
Because New Year’s Day fell on a Friday, they didn’t have to worry about school for now. Between cooking many
of the meals for everyone, keeping the cookie jar filled, and looking after a human and an animal orphan, she went to bed each
night exhausted.
Harold and Lefty spent most of their days at the cabin with Demi and the boy and took it upon themselves to do
research with Charlie about the fawn. Choosing her name became a serious endeavor.
It was Charlie who finally came up with the perfect one, bringing tears to Harold’s eyes and agreeable nods from
the others.
“I think we should call her Glory. Because she’s a glorious creature, right? Plus, Demi said Harold’s wife was
called Gloria. And… and I like the name a lot.” He slid his hands into his pockets, fidgeting. “What do you all think?”
Standing alone in front of the group, having everyone’s attention, and not shying away, made Demi’s motherly
instincts swell. Pride over Charlie’s ability to be the focus, and his faith that no one would take offense or be angry was
paramount to her happiness. The little boy had begun to feel worthy, and nothing could please her more.
During these happy days, Glen and Rudy spent time with them also, and it was Glen who came up with the best
idea of where the fawn could live. “It’s too hot inside the cabin for her, Demi. She should be outside but somewhere sheltered
and safe.”
“I wondered about that myself. Yet, I wasn’t sure if we could leave her in the woodshed. It’s so dark inside.”
“I have a better idea. Why don’t we close off a section of the porch and make a pen there. Charlie would have to
go around the outside of the stairs to get the wood though.”
“I don’t mind. I can tie a rope around the area if you want me to, Demi.”
“Good idea. Yes. I want you to stay inside a boundary in case it blows up a storm again. You’ve seen how the
snow can come down so thick a person can’t see two steps in front of them.”
Between Glen, Charlie and Rudy and an industrial stapler, they used one of the large heavier tarps to close off a
section of the porch and made a cozy pen there for the fawn. The light from the kitchen window made it easy to see inside the
space, and Demi could keep an eye on her new baby.
Knowing that Nito would be nearby gave them a sense of security for the fawn from other wild animals. It seemed
a perfect solution.
Wanting to see the newest orphan for themselves, Norrie and Lexie appeared unexpectedly early one afternoon,
bringing casseroles and extra baked goods. The enlarged group had a blast that day playing games and carrying on well into the
night. The ladies were able to drive the oldies home and saved Demi and Charlie the trip, giving them time to clean up and hit
the sack early.
Between them all, they’d coaxed Charlie to take these days off work at the store with the promise that he could
return once school started. Norrie had arranged with him to come straight to her after his last class and work his two hours.
Then someone would be there each day to bring him home. Though he never brought it up, Demi sensed his nervousness and
stopped his fretting by mentioning it herself. “Either Whit or I will be there to get you, Charlie. Don’t worry.”
“But it’s a lot of trouble.” His large eyes were filled with apprehension. “I don’t want to make you mad.”
Glad that this conversation happened during one of their alone times, Demi went to where he sat on his chair, knelt
down in front of him, and took his hands to stop him from squirming. “Charlie, school is very important. I’m sorry Beth didn’t
understand that, but it could be that school had been a bad experience for her as a youngster. Could she have been trying to save
you from the same thing happening to you?”
“Nope. She didn’t care. About me learning anything.”
“Not true. If she didn’t care, she would have put you into foster care. But she kept you with her.”
“Because she was scared of the dark.” His earlier harsh tone lightened then. “She told me so. Said she hated being
by herself. Sometimes, she was nice to me.”
“Oh, Charlie. I have no doubt your mother had a lot of issues we’ll never understand. And unfortunately, you were
forced to deal with them. But no more. I promise. We’ll get you started in the school here. For the first while, it might feel
awkward and scary. But eventually, you’ll find that learning about the world we live in is fascinating.”
His face reddened as he admitted painfully, “But Demi, I don’t have money for the school fees. And they want us to
have proper materials… and, and stuff. I know cause I asked one of the teachers who came into the store.”
Demi smiled gently. “I know, pal. We’ll get whatever you need. And you can pay me back by taking on Glory’s
care. Her pen has to be cleaned every day, and she needs attention with her feeding and grooming. If I can leave it to you in the
morning before school and in the evening, it will be a huge help.”
Pretending… she rubbed her shoulder. “Since I had the injury, I’ve been careful not to overdo things, but carrying
Glory out of the bush might have pulled my muscles a bit too much. Having you take on the heavier chores these last few days
has been a godsend.”
Charlie hesitated, the fear of being rejected written on his features but as if he couldn’t help himself, he leaned his
head towards her shoulder and let it lay there.
Very carefully, she wrapped her arm around his back and rested her cheek on his hair. She didn’t squeeze hard,
knowing it might scare him. Instead, she just waited for when he was ready to move. It took long moments before he sighed and
broke away, twisting from their embrace. “I’ll check if Glory needs food.”
She let her hand rest on his hair for a second longer before answering. “I see you’re making inroads with Nito.
He’s a good friend to have around here.”
Charlie shrugged and spoke in a matter-of-fact way. “I think he just puts up with me. All he cares about is you.”
“See… it’s because I saved his life when he was tiny. Same as you’re doing with Glory. She won’t forget you.”
Charlie’s expression turned sad. “Harold said I’ll have to let her go when she’s healed. Is that true?”
“I believe so. As long as she has full ability to get around safely. But it’ll be her choice. We won’t keep her caged
in any way. It’ll be up to her when she’s ready.”
“She’ll leave.”
“Maybe. Or maybe she’ll stick around. But it has to be her decision. There’s a whole world out there in the
forest… her world. It’s only fair that we give her the opportunity to go and be with others like her. Right?”
“I guess so.”
“She needs us now though. It’ll be at least another week before she’s healed and well enough to leave.”
Before either could move, they heard Nito bark a warning and then a strange vehicle appeared in front of the cabin.
Demi went to the door and sent the wolf away, giving the woman safe passage inside.
“Are you Demi Fedora?”
“Yes. Please… come in where it’s warm. It’s freezing out there.”
The woman stared at the boy and then continued. “I’m Mrs. Stanch from the Department of Health and Human
Services in Terrace. There’s been a report that a child called Charlie Welch recently lost his mother and is now a ward of the
government.” Once the middle-aged, heavyset woman stepped into the warmth, Demi closed the door behind her. Startled by
the unexpected visitor, she still remembered her manners. “This is Charlie Welch. Can I take your coat?”
From the corner of her eye, Demi watched Charlie seem to shrivel in place. As he stared at the newcomer, his
terrified expression shocked her. She turned to her guest.
Shivering, the woman seemed to melt a little when she glanced around at the decorations, smelled the bread
baking, and let the warmth from the glowing fireplace thaw her tone.
Demi put the coat on the hook by the others and answered the earlier question. “Yes, I’m Demi Fedora.”
“You should have brought him to us within seventy-two hours of him being orphaned. Didn’t the sheriff explain?”
“Not really. Once he knew that Charlie would be coming home with me, he seemed satisfied for the boy’s safety.
You must realize that Ms. Welch passed away just before the New Year’s celebrations and normal activities pretty much
stopped for the holidays.” Demi ignored the defensive feeling of wanting to rip the woman’s face off and became the hostess.
Her belief that a person using honey rather than vinegar had seemed to work for her in the past, so she followed
that plan. “Can I get you a cup of tea or hot chocolate, Mrs. Stanch? Maybe coffee. You’ve had a long drive, and you must be
tired.”
She gestured for the woman to go to the table where the remnants of their lunch still rested, and then motioned for
Charlie to help her clear it away.
Glad to see that the boy understood her silent request, she let him clean off the table while she added a few logs to
the fire. Turning, she watched as he carried the dishes to the sink and began to run the water, ready to wash them. Fumbling, he
took the last load and accidentally knocked the dishes against the cabinet. Two of the plates shattered on the floor.
His pale expression of abject fear brought her rushing to him. ‘Hey, bud, glad you dropped those. They’re starting
to get cracks in them and were about to be dumped soon anyway. The dustpan and broom’s in the linen closet by your room.”
She pointed at the right door.
Not paying any attention to the newcomer, she gave the boy an encouraging smile as he rushed to do her bidding.
Clear to anyone who knew him that Charlie was close to collapsing, she helped him clean up the shards, making sure he didn’t
cut himself.
Her patient nods of reassurance worked, and he cleaned up the mess, watching her face to be sure she wasn’t mad.
When he saw her wink and grin, his fear visibly diminished, and he went back to washing the dishes.
Demi filled the kettle and began a conversation with her guest. “Were the driving conditions very bad, Mrs.
Stanch?”
“Yes. The worst part is driving from the highway into your road. I had to stay in the grooves, or I was afraid I’d get
stuck.”
“I’m sorry. We haven’t been very conscientious about plowing. My truck gets through easy, but a car would be
difficult. Glen promised he’d come out sometime today. He has a plow on the front of his heavy vehicle, and it clears up the
road well.”
Demi took the boiling kettle off the burner and repeated her earlier question. “What would you like to drink? We
had milk with breakfast, but we usually have a hot drink about now.”
“Whatever you make is fine. I like them all.”
“Good. How about you, Charlie? Are you ready for a hot chocolate or would you rather have mint tea?”
“I don’t mind either.” The boy answered, his voice wobbling but he refused to turn her way. She sensed his unease,
and as she went to make the drinks, she squeezed his shoulder showing her understanding.
“Would you mind if I used your washroom? It’s been a long drive.”
“Of course, you can.” Demi pointed to the far open doorway just past the lit Christmas tree and watched the woman
toddle off in that direction. Then she turned to see Charlie staring at the departing back, abject misery on his face. “She’s gonna
take me away.”
“I’ll sic Nito on her first.”
“What? Demi….” Charlie began to grin, his face lit with absolute joy.
“You’re staying here. With me. Where you belong. That’s if you want to.”
“More than anything.”
“Good. Now, let’s let the nice lady see what great people we are.”
The far door opened, and Demi rushed to finish preparing the hot chocolate and added a plate of homemade
cookies. Then she took the bread Charlie had helped her bake from the oven and set it on the racks before buttering the tops.
Charlie helped her carry the mugs and plates to the table and left the one she’d put out for him behind. “I need to
check on Glory.”
Before Demi could agree or disagree, he ran to get his parka and headed out the door.
“You have a very comfortable home here, Miss. Fedora.” Mrs. Stanch settled back into her chair.
“Please, call me Demi. And thank you. We’ve done a lot of work to make it livable. My grandfather left me this
place years ago. It hadn’t been occupied for a long time, so you can imagine how much had to be done. I still have a list a mile
long of repairs I intend to make.”
While she talked, Demi made sure the woman had everything she needed. “Now, as much as I’m delighted to have
a visitor, what can I do for you?”
“Oh, nothing. I’ve just come to pick up Charlie.”
“I gathered that. But you see, I can’t let you take him. I promised him a home here with us for as long as he wanted
to stay. You can ask him if he’d rather leave, but I’m pretty sure he’d say no.”
Mrs. Stanch’s clear-eyed stare was met with an equally stubborn gaze. She finally continued, “You know he’s been
picked up a number of times and would either run away or was taken back.”
Shocked, Demi sat back in her chair. “He has? I thought Beth, his mother, kept him with her.”
“Oh, that’s true. She’d fetch him each time but against our wishes. We knew she didn’t… ahh, provide a decent
lifestyle for the boy. Nor did she keep him in school. We’ve followed them from time to time, but as soon as we’d close in,
she’d up and disappear.”
“Well, I can assure you, that isn’t going to happen here. Charlie has agreed to start school when it opens tomorrow.
First thing, we’ll get him enrolled and pick up whatever materials he’ll need. I’ve talked to the principal, and she’s agreed to
evaluate him to decide what level he’s at.”
“Yes. I see. But that isn’t possible. He must come back with me. If you wish, you can go through the formalities of
applying to be his foster family. That’s if you want to take him, of course.”
“See, that doesn’t make any sense. I mean, I’ll fill in all the forms and sign any papers you need me to, but why
would you force him to go with you when we both figure he’ll just run away. And without Beth waiting for him, who knows
what can happen to an eleven-year-old boy on his own in this part of the country? At least, while he’s here, he’s safe.”
Demi watched the other woman surveying the mug in front of her, chewing on her snickerdoodle, and looking as if
she’d just found herself in the middle of a world war.
“You want him.”
“Oh, yeah.”
“Why?”
“Because he’s alone. And scared. Just like I was when I was a lot younger than him. The foster family I lived with
was a shitshow. I couldn’t stand the thought of Charlie going through that too.”
“You know I came here to get him. It’s my job.”
“Yes. But I thought your job was to find him a home where he’ll be appreciated and loved.”
“Are you married, Demi.”
“You know I’m not. You called me Miss which tells me that you’ve already looked into my background.”
 “I did. And you know what I found? A woman who ran her own successful center in Pheonix for runaway teens.
Your reputation was unblemished.”
“That’s a plus, right? You know you can trust Charlie with me.”
“Oh, that was never the problem. The problem is that Charlie has a father. And the man wants him.”
“What?” Shocked speechless, Demi’s mind whirled in circles. Her thoughts flittered back and forth until a question
surfaced. “How do you know this man’s his father?”
“I don’t. He says he is and has pictures of them living together when Charlie was a few years younger than he is
now.”
“What father’s name is showing on Charlie’s birth certificate?”
“Can’t find one… a birth certificate. His mother moved them around a lot and could have changed her name a
hundred times for all we know. We have no record that he was even born in a hospital.”
“Then, by law, how can this man have any right to Charlie?”
“He’s willing to take a DNA. It’s the only way we can prove for sure he is who he says he is.”
“Just because his sperm checks out, it doesn’t mean he’s a father.”
“That’s true. But the government’s mandate is to keep children with their parents if at all possible.”
Demi’s heart sunk. Now what? Jesus help me, I don’t want to lose him, especially to a stranger who couldn’t be
bothered to find him in eleven years. Hoping for time, she asked, “Can’t you get Charlie’s sample now and leave him here
until you know for certain? And even then, don’t you have to be sure he’ll be taken care of? What does this man do?”
“I can’t go into any details other than to say he’s relatively new to the area. And yes, I could get Charlie’s sample
now.” Mrs. Stanch leaned back in her chair and took off her glasses to clean them on a tissue she’d taken from her pocket. Her
salt and pepper hair frizzed around her face, giving her a grandmotherly appearance, but the stare from hard eyes told another
story. This woman was nobody’s fool.
Charlie chose that moment to come back into the house and seemed to pick up on the tension. His glance flew to
Demi, and he held her gaze. “What’s wrong?”
Not willing to hide the truth, Demi forced the subject. “Mrs. Stanch says your father has suddenly materialized.
Says he showed her pictures of you two being together. Do you know who this man could be?”
Charlie took his time removing his jacket. When he dropped it, Demi could see he was trembling so badly he
couldn’t function. She went to him. “Charlie, what’s wrong?”
“Orville’s not my dad, Demi. He’s rotten. Beth used to say the devil lived in him. We’d run away from him every
time he caught up with us.”
“Orville. He’s the man who claims to be you father?”
“He’s not. My dad. I asked. Beth said she didn’t know who my dad was cause she hung out with a lot of guys.” The
tears began then, a flood of them pouring down his cheeks.
“Hey, you’re not going anywhere for now.” Demi pulled him to her, and his arms wrapped tightly around her waist
while his face hid against her chest. “Mrs. Stanch will take a sample of your DNA which will prove he isn’t who he claims to
be. Meanwhile, you’ll stay here with me until this gets straightened out. And I’ll be filling in all the papers they need me to so I
can be your legal foster parent. Okay?”
She felt Charlie sag with relief. Then he turned to Mrs. Stanch, swiping at the mess on his face. Demi saw the
uncertainty in the woman’s eyes and dared her to argue. As if she understood the limitations facing her, Mrs. Stanch nodded and
rose to get the gear she needed from her briefcase-like purse. Once Demi had filled in the necessary forms, the older woman
was on her way back to Terrace… a bag of snickerdoodles on the seat next to her.
Charlie sat desolate at the table; his expression sadder than she’d ever seen before. “What’s wrong, Charlie?”
“What if he is my dad?”
Stunned, Demi asked, “Is there a possibility?”
“Anything’s possible with my mom.”
Demi approached and sat across from him. “Hey, I think you’re forgetting our secret weapon.”
Charlie’s face shot up, and he met her gleeful look. “Secret weapon?”
“Yep. We have Whit on our side.”
Chapter Sixteen
Later the same day, Charlie and Demi were on their way to get the boy settled in school. But first, they stopped in
Stewart at the mercantile store where she bought him new boots and a parka that fit him properly.
“Charlie, I can see by your face that you’re worried about the cost. Stop. Please. I don’t want you to go to school
looking like a waif and have the other kids making fun of you anymore. We’ll figure out a way for you to pay me back later.”
“Demi.” He groaned. “I’ll be in retirement like Harold before I can cover this.”
Pleased at his teasing, she chuckled. “Then I’ll have you with me for a long time. You can look after me when I’m a
crippled old lady.”
“Yeah? Deal.” He stopped fretting then and helped her choose the one he preferred.
The fact that it turned out to be the cheapest, she ignored. His wishes had to count, and so she agreed. Then she
took him to Harold and Lefty where Lefty promised to give him a decent haircut.
“Are you sure you know what you’re doing?” Demi inquired when she saw how he held the scissors.
“Hey, little girl, I’ve been cutting my own boy’s hair forever.”
Harold piped up. “Poor kid never took his hat off.”
Lefty kept turning Charlie’s head this way and that until Demi’s anxiousness overtook her. “You know what, I’ll
take him to the barber’s in Stewart tomorrow.”
“You want he should go to school looking like a girl with all those curls everywhere? I’ll fix it. Just let me take my
time.”
Charlie, happy to be with his old buddies, sat quietly and grinned. He had faith in Lefty.
Demi saw the wink Harold sent Charlie’s way and decided to give over. How much damage could he do? Thirty
minutes later, she had the answer to her question.
Poor Charlie politely thanked Lefty before they left and once in the truck, he turned to Demi. “It’s not that bad.”
“It is that bad. Look, maybe we’ll wait to take you into school till tomorrow and head over to the barbershop in
Stewart now. Hopefully, Mac will have time to take care of you.”
“Glen told me you cut his hair. Can’t you just fix mine too?”
Demi hesitated. She had cut hair a number of times back home and did a pretty good job. No doubt, she would
make Charlie look a lot better. “Okay. I’ll try.”
They quickly drove over to the store, and Norrie waved them into the house. “Sure you can use my bathroom, but
why?”
“I need a good pair of hair-cutting scissors. Do you have any?”
“Yep. Top drawer on the right. Help yourself.” Looking after a gaggle of customers, Norrie waved them past and
got back to the three ladies in front of her.
By the time Demi finally lowered her hand, and checked Charlie’s beaming face in the mirror, she sighed with
relief. He looked a hell of a lot better. She took her time staring at the boy and saw where he’d filled out even in just a few
days. His skin had lost that pale, starving look, and his eyes looked back at her instead of the floor. “Thanks, Demi. I like it.”
“Really?”
“Yes. You made it even now and – and normal. I like it,” he repeated.
Knowing he did look more like the other kids with curly hair such as his, she nodded and washed the scissors
before putting them away. “Right. We still have time to grab lunch at the café. Then dude… it’s off to school with you. I don’t
want Mrs. Stanch-ie to have any complaints about your behavior.
He giggled over her play on the name and agreed. “I like eating at the café. My mom took me once. I ordered a
grilled cheese sandwich.”
“My fave too. And a chocolate milk shake.
“Oh-kay!”
Once Demi had dropped a happy boy off at the school and spent some time with the principal explaining about her
visitor the day before, she was promised all the help they needed for both Charlie to settle in and for her to get custody.
***
Feeling much better, she returned to the store and found both Norrie and Lexie in a deep conversation.
“Oh, Demi. I’m glad you came back. Lexie hoped to be able to talk with you.” Once Demi approached, Norrie left
them together and went back to her counter to look after Clive who had to pay for his coffee.
“Hey, Lexie. What’s up?”
“It’s about Harold. He stopped by for an appointment yesterday.” She pointed at the coffee pot and raised her
eyebrow. After Demi shook her head, she poured a mug for herself.
Demi’s stomach tightened. She felt her inner pulses start fluttering, squeezing painfully, similar to the way they’d
behaved during her conversation with Mrs. Stanch. Bloody stress had begun to fade over the last few days, but now it washed
over her in waves.
“Is he okay?”
“First, I want you to know, I got his permission to share his medical situation with you so there’s no talking out of
turn. He’s been having some chest pain that’s new. And his heartbeat is irregular. I gave him a light medication that should take
care of the pain, but he needs to be kept quiet. And he should be getting more oxygen. His levels are lower than I like to see.
When I suggested it to him, he agreed for me to order him a portable oxygen concentrator. That’ll make a huge difference.”
Grabbing the coffee counter, Demi lowered her head and felt her worries blossom. She’d begun to feel better about
Harold. Since he’d arrived, he seemed to flourish. “I thought he was looking and feeling better.”
“Oh, he is. I’m sorry to scare you, I didn’t mean to. He’s a sick man, you know that. But he’s not worse. In fact, if
anything, he seems to be a bit better overall. These chest pains can be many things… arthritis, or even digestive problems.
Let’s not get ahead of ourselves. It’s just something to watch. From what I gather, Lefty had been preparing a lot of rich food,
and I’ve taken him aside and told him to cut it out. He says he’s been a cook all his life, and he doesn’t know how to make
bland food.” Lexie laughed. “I love that old man. He’s such a hoot.”
“Will he listen?”
“He will. He promised. You do know that both those old reprobates have flourished since they arrived here. I’m so
glad you’ve taken them under your wing like you have. Norrie and I want you to know you can count on us to help in any way
we can. And with the boy too.”
***
“What about the boy?” Norrie appeared, ready to join in the conversation.
Demi took her time explaining about her visitor yesterday and both the ladies listened without interruption. Until
Demi spoke the name of the man who claimed to be Charlie’s father, Orville Blanchard.
Norrie’s expression hardened, and she spit the name out as if she had a mouthful of poison. “Orville Blanchard is a
no-good son of a bitch around these parts. Dawson’s thrown him out of town more than once. Probably caught him sniffing
around Beth. Wouldn’t be surprised if that bastard didn’t give her the shit that killed her.”
“He’s a drug trafficker?” Demi felt her spirits rise.
“Not officially… but the miner’s know him well.”
“Can you get any evidence about this type of activity? Like from well-respected town folks around here and some
of the old-timers you know who work at the mine. You get to see these people all the time. If we can gather enough proof that
the man’s not decent to take on a child, I can pass it over to the welfare people.”
“Absolutely, I can and will. Do you think he’s Charlie’s birth dad?”
“Hell if I know. But if he is, that still doesn’t give him the right to step in and take Charlie away. From Charlie’s
reaction to hearing about Orville, the kid hates him.”
“The law wouldn’t force Charlie to go with him, would they?” Lexie stared at Norrie and then at Demi who
clenched her teeth to stop the cuss words. Instead, she answered solemnly. “Not if Whit has anything to say about it.”
Once those words were spoken, all three women nodded gravely. Now all they needed was for him to get home.
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