Louisa sat at the picnic table, chatting with Joanne Desoto and Dixie McCall. The three women got along famously, discounting the differences in their ages and backgrounds. Louisa was telling Joanne and Dixie what things had been like the first few months she had worked on the ranch.
“ Buck , our foreman, was so afraid that I was going to get hurt, he never let me do anything except clean out the stalls for the first couple of months. It wasn't until I throw an 80-pound bale of hay up to him that he realized that I wasn't some weak little girl,” she said with a chuckle.
“ Dixie laughed. "Those bales weigh 80 pounds ?” she said. “I couldn't lift one, let alone throw it!”
Joanne joined in the laughter. “I bet he was surprised when you did that, Louisa !”
“He sure was! Once he picked his jaw off the barn floor, he told me that he would have to give me more responsibility around the place,” Louisa grinned. “He thought I was some “city girl” who had no idea how a ranch was run. Buck can be a real bear sometimes, but underneath, he's really just all bark and no bite!”
The three women chatted on for several minutes before Captain Stanley and Doctor Joe Early came over. “Hello, ladies,” said the kindly gray-haired Dr. Early . “Is this table reserved for beautiful young women, or can a couple of old men join in?”
“Sit down, fellas,” invited Dixie . “ Louisa was just telling us how she proved her mettle to her ranch foreman.”
“ Joe smiled. “And how did you do that, Miss Martin ?” he asked.
“Please, call me Louisa . I threw an 80-pound bale of hay 6 feet up into the hay loft to him. That's how!” she answered. “He was so surprised he almost fell out of the loft!”
Hank smiled. “And I thought dragging hoses was hard work,” he said.
“I couldn't do your job, sir,” said Louisa . “Just keeping Chet and Johnny from killing each other must be a full-time job in itself.”
“You got that right,” Hank grinned. “The Phantom makes a few too many appearances some days. Too bad Gage is the one most often in the line of fire.”
“ Marco told me what a prankster Chet is. I've pulled a few in my day,” Louisa smiled. “Maybe Chet would like a visit from the “Montana Prankster”. It might take some of the wind out of his sails!”
Stanley grinned, thinking how upset Chet would be if his friend's sister out-pranked him. “That would be interesting, I'm sure, but we'd never hear the end of it.”
“I'll have to think of a really good prank for that. Maybe Johnny would want to help me,” Louisa said, a mischievous twinkle in her brown eyes. “From what Marco told me, he's usually Chet's favorite target.”
“I'm sure he would,” smiled Dixie . “I hear enough about the pranks to know Johnny tries to pull pranks on Chet, too, but most of the time they backfire on him.”
A shout from Mike interrupted the conversation. “Looks like they're starting to choose up teams for a baseball game, Hank. Shall we go over and join in? Are you going to play?” Louisa asked Dixie , Dr. Early , and Joanne .
“What do you say, Joe ? Should we show these hose jockeys how the game is played?” Dixie said, smiling broadly.
“Sounds like a plan to me, Dix . How about you, Joanne ?”
“I'll just watch, Dr. Early . Baseball really isn't my game.”
“Let's go,” said Hank. “Station 36 beat us last year. Let's show them what a high school varsity player can do.”
They walked over to the field where groups of firemen were choosing up sides. As they reached the diamond, Johnny looked over and grinned. “Hey, Sanchez ,” he said; “Here comes our ringer. You going to let her play or would having your butt kicked by a girl tarnish your reputation too much?”
Sanchez looked over at the group just arriving. “ Miss McCall is your ringer? That's a good one, Gage!” he laughed.
“No, Sanchez . The other lady. Marco 's sister. She's visiting from Montana and she played varsity softball in high school.”
“High school?!? Are you kidding me? She looks pretty delicate to me,” Sanchez replied, a hint of sarcasm in his voice.
Louisa winked at Johnny . “Maybe you'd like to make a little wager on the game, Sanchez , is it? You might be surprised what a delicate little high school player can do.” Louisa waggled her eyebrows at Johnny , who smothered a chuckle.
“You're on, missy. What's your name, honey?”
“It isn't “Honey”, that's for sure. My name is Louisa . What's yours , sweetheart?”
The rest of the two stations 51 and 36, walked up just in time to hear Louisa 's comments. Marco grinned, knowing his little sister was up to no good. She had played baseball with his friends and beat them most of the time. He knew that Sanchez and the rest of Station 36 would be whistling a different tune by the end of the game.
“ Miguel ,” answered Sanchez , “but you can call me ‘sweetheart' if you like.”
“How does $20 sound to you, Miguel ? And the loser has to wait on the winner hand and foot for the rest of the picnic,” challenged Louisa , her eyes gleaming with mischief.
“ Hope you brought you serving tray, doll face. I like my burgers rare, my beers cold, and my women sassy.”
Mike Stoker , watching the interchange, knew something was up. He turned to Marco and whispered, “What's the deal? Sanchez trying to make time with your sister?”
Marco smiled. “He's about to be fleeced. Louisa isn't as sweet and delicate as she looks. Sanchez will be laughing out of the other side of his face before all is said and done.”
As the two teams took their places, having decided that 51 would bat first, Louisa threw her brother a smile, mouthing, ‘ Sanchez is mine'. Marco grinned back, knowing Louisa would be running Sanchez ragged after the game.
“Batter up!” shouted the umpire. “Let's go, people!”
Roy was first at bat, and hit a long pop fly straight out to center field. Two players from 36's tripped over each other trying to catch the ball.
“Hey, Johnny ! I think we need a squad out in center field!” shouted Louisa . “You want to make the call?”
Johnny laughed, knowing that she was trying to psyche out the other team. “I don't know. It might be better if they moved in closer to the plate though!”
Rick Collins , one of Station 36's paramedics, called out, “Very funny, Gage! Maybe you and the skirt would like to check them out yourselves!”
“Who you calling a skirt, hose jockey?” returned Louisa . “Maybe you guys need a few traffic signals out there!”
“Knock it off, you twits!!” shouted Captain Stanley . “I swear, I'm dealing with a bunch of kindergarteners!!”
“Sorry, Cap!” called Johnny and Louisa . “We'll behave!”
As the game went on, Station 36 was unable to get a runner on base for most of the inning. When Station 51 came up to bat, they jeered and tried to distract them but without success. At the bottom of the 9 th inning, Chet Kelly hit a long pop fly, sending the ball over the fence and out of the game. Station 51 won the game, 14 to 3 . Sanchez and Collins gaped at Louisa , shocked and embarrassed that a small, almost petite young woman had shown them up when they routinely beat Station 51 every time the two station played baseball.
“Hey, Sanchez ! How about some cold drinks over here for my teammates??” called Louisa .
Sanchez walked over to her, stuck out his hand, and said, “Good game, doll face. Your wish is my command. I apologize for being rude earlier. Friends?”
“Friends. Don't feel bad. You guys played a great game. Let's say we go get some food. It looks like everything is ready.”
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
It was starting to get dark when Hank Stanley and Louisa Martin found themselves alone at the table. The rest of the crew and their families had gone to watch the fireworks that signaled the end of the Fireman's Picnic for that year.
Louisa bit her lip, not sure how to begin. Finally, she took a deep breath and said, “ Captain Stanley , Mama told me that you lost your wife recently. Please accept my condolences.”
Hank glanced up, surprised at her words. He was speechless for a minute but recovered his composure quickly.
“Thank you, Louisa . That's very kind of you. I appreciate it.”
“I know we haven't known each other long, Hank, but I feel bad for you. It must have been heartbreaking to lose her like that.”
“I miss her so much,” said Hank, tears welling up in his eyes. “ Sarah was my life. I feel like a part of me has been ripped away.”
Louisa laid her hand on Hank's arm, tears of her own glistening in her eyes. “I know words don't mean much, but I understand what it's like to lose someone special. My Papi died when I was 17, but not a day goes by that I don't think about him.”
Hank smiled sadly. :I think about Sarah a lot, too. We married a month after I graduated from the Academy. I thought she would always be her with me.”
“Mama says time and good friends heal all wounds,” said Louisa softly. “I'd like to help and be a friend to you, if you will allow me too.”
Hank looked at the young woman sitting next to him, not sure what to say. Everyone had been dancing around the subject of Sarah 's death, afraid to talk to him about it as if they would add to his pain.
“I think I could handle that,” replied Hank, touched by Louisa 's kindness. “I would welcome you to the station it you wanted to visit.”
“ Marco told me that Roy and Joanne are hosting a barbeque next Saturday. Maybe we could talk some more then?” she asked, more than a little self-conscious. “I wouldn't want anyone to get the wrong idea if we met for dinner someplace.”
Hank studied her for a long minute. “I think that would be nice. I'd like to hear more about Montana .”
Louisa smiled widely. “I brought some pictures of the ranch with me. I'd be happy to show them to you. That way you could understand why I love the place so much.”
“Great. Saturday it is, then.”
“I'm looking forward to it,” said Louisa , breathing a sigh of relief, afraid she had been too forward.
“So am I,” said Hank, feeling better than he had in weeks.
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
The Desoto's barbeque the following Saturday
Carrying a large bowl and a bulky photograph album, Louisa walked up to the Desoto's front door and rang the bell. She had taken extra pains in her outfit, wanting to look nice for her brother's friends.
The door swung open. “Hi, Louisa ,” greeted Joanne with a smile. “Here, let me help you with that. It looks heavy.”
“Hi, Joanne . Thanks. It is heavy. I made extra, considering what Marco told me about Johnny 's “bottomless pit”.
Louisa followed Joanne into the kitchen, placing the photo album on the table. Roy came down the stairs, whistling, and greeted her with a grin.
“ Louisa ! Glad you made it. Can I get you something to drink? Soda, juice, beer?”
“Hi, Roy . Soda is fine, thank you. Are the others here yet?”
“Everyone except Cap. He should be here any minute.” Noticing the large photo album, he said, “What's this?”
“Pictures that I took of the ranch. I thought that maybe you guys would like to see them.”
“ Johnny sure will, I bet. He doesn't talk about Montana much, but I think he misses it a little.”
At that moment the paramedic in question bounded through the sliding glass door. “Hey, Louisa . How ya doing?”
“Great, Johnny ,” she smiled. “I brought some pictures of the ranch. The album is over on the table.”
Johnny picked up the photo album and started leafing through it, gazing at familiar places captured in the photographs. Coming to a picture of a large, coal-black horse, he said, “Beautiful horse. Is he yours?”
Louisa smiled. “No, that's our foreman's horse. He's not fully gentled yet, so no one is allowed to ride him, except for Buck , of course. He's pure Arabian, according to the papers Buck has on him.”
Roy and Joanne came over, looking at the picture. “He sure is a beauty,” said Joanne .
Johnny turned a page of the album, finding a picture of Louisa dressed in an old-fashioned style dress and bonnet. “When was this taken?” he asked.
Louisa looked at the picture and smiled. “ Mr. Johnson took that the day we had Pioneer Days. Everyone dressed in 1880's style clothes and did things like we were back in that period of time.”
“That sounds like fun,” said Joanne . “What did you do?”
“The local farmers got together and set up an old time County Fair with animals and things, and that night we had a square dance. It was so much fun!”
Roy smiled. “Was everything completely authentic?” he asked.
“Right down to the corsets and gartered stocking,” Louisa answered, noticing Roy 's face turn red. “Now I know what it feels like to be laced into a birdcage.”
“ Roy recovered and said, “Kind of like that woman in the girdle, huh Junior?” he said with a chuckle.
Johnny blushed to the tips of his ears and said, “Please. Not the girdle story, Roy . I'm begging you.”
“Girdle?” said Louisa , giggling. “Was she stuck getting into it or out of it?”
Roy burst out laughing. “Never mind. I'm keeping my mouth shut on that one.”
“Okay. I won't take it any farther,” said Louisa , seeing Johnny 's uncomfortable expression. “I had enough trouble getting that corset on, so I'll let it rest.”
“Thanks,” said Johnny , grinning. “It was bad enough to go through it without telling it again.”
The group laughed, and headed out the sliding glass door to join the rest of their friends and co-worker's.
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
When Captain Stanley finally arrived, the barbeque was in full swing. Chet, Marco , Mike , Johnny , Louisa , and the Desoto children were playing a spirited game of volleyball and the teasing was flying fast and furious. “Chet, you serve like an old lady,” needled Johnny . “You need me to show you how it's done,” he said.
“Yeah, right, Gage. Just get ready for this one,” returned Kelly . “Hope you brought your helmet with you, even though you can never keep it on your head anyways!”
The ball came flying over the net, straight to Louisa . She made a fist and sent it flying back to the other side. Stoker returned it, sending it right to Johnny , who tripped and missed it. “Score!” shouted Chet triumphantly. “Match point, kiddies.”
“In your dreams, Kelly . Serve it before we all grow old,” teased Marco .
Roy noticed that Hank had joined them and went over to greet his captain. “Hey, Cap. Glad you could make it,” he said with a smile.
“Thanks, Roy . What's going on over there?” he said, gesturing to the backyard.
Roy chuckled. “Chet is trying to make an impression on Marco 's sister again. Too bad the only one's he's making is how not to serve the ball.”
Hank laughed. That's our Kelly , all right. Anything you need me to do?”
“Nah. Relax and have a beer, Cap. The slaughter should be over soon.”
Hank went over to the cooler set up on the deck, took out a beer, and sat down on the stairs leading to the backyard. He grinned at the playful insults being traded by Louis and Chet. Kelly was trying his best to match wits with the young woman, but was coming up short.
“Come on, Irish. Show a little country gal what you got. Or is your brain clogged with smoke from all those fires?” Louisa joked.
“Keep talking, little girl. Hope you like the taste of humble pie,” he hollered.
“As long as it's not served with your Irish stew, baby!”
Roy went to stand beside Hank and watch the game. “Hurry it up, gang. The food's almost ready,” he shouted.
“Five minutes, Roy ,” replied Johnny . “We're just waiting for Chet to lose.”
“Here it comes, kids. Heads up!”
As the ball came over the net, Mike Stoker returned it with a might shot, sending it flying over the other team's heads and out of the game. “Good deal!” shouted Gage, pumping his fists in the air. “We win!”
The players jogged over to the picnic table that had been set up. “Great game, Chester . Hauling hose must build up those muscles of yours,” grinned Louisa , shaking Chet's hand.
“It was a good game,” smiled Marco . Now, I'm starving. Let's eat!”
The gang sat down and dug into the spread. Roy had grilled plenty of hot dogs and hamburgers to go with the variety of salads and side dishes the guests had brought.
“Tell us more about the ranch, Louisa ,” said Joanne . “I know you have horse and cows, but what other animals do you raise?”
A few chickens, a couple of goats, and about half a dozen pigs,” said Louisa, “I was never fond of pigs, but I found out that those critters are almost as smart as dogs.”
“Really?” said Johnny , wiping his mouth. “Can they be trained?”
“I've never tried, but it probably could be done. You want to come back with me and give it a try?”
Chet laughed. “ Gage could give the pig mouth-to-mouth if it stops breathing,” he said, making the others laugh. “That pig couldn't look any worse than the chicks you date, Gage.”
“Chet, be nice. Some pigs are kind of cute, in a way,” teased Louisa . “Might be better than kissing the Blarney Stone, like you seem to have done.”
“Ouch, that really hurts, country girl,” said Chet, pretending to be hurt. “Now who should be nice?”
“I'm sorry, Chet. I was only kidding. Peace.”
“Knock it off, you twits,” said Captain Stanley . “This is supposed to be a relaxing day, not babysitting day.”
"Maybe you should make them go stand I the corner of the yard, Cap," grinned Roy .
"Don't tempt me, Desoto," returned the Captain with a smile.
After everyone had eaten their fill and the table had been cleaned up, Hank and Louisa settled on the deck with Roy and Joanne . Louisa brought out her photo album, passing it around to the group, explaining what each picture was and where it had been taken. Roy 's daughter, Jennifer , leaned against Louisa 's knees, gazing up at the young woman.
“Are you really a cowboy?” she asked, causing Louisa to smile. “I guess you could say that, Jennifer . I do get to ride the horses sometimes.”
“ Uncle Johnny has horses, don't you Uncle Johnny ?”
“You didn't tell me that, John . How many do you have?”
“Right now, just two. Horses are pretty expensive to keep, as you now. Sometimes I have to pull a lot of overtime to get money to buy feed.”
“I hear that,” said Louisa . “But it's all worth it in the long run.”
Johnny smiled. “It sure is.”
As the afternoon passed, Hank studied Louisa , noticing how her eyes lit up when she talked about Montana . The longer he was around her, the more Hank liked the young woman. She had a spirit that attracted him like a moth to a flame. But mixed in with the attraction was guilt. Hank felt like he was disrespecting his wife by noticing another woman so soon after Sarah 's death.
Roy and Joanne sat quietly, trying to understand what was going on in Captain Stanley 's head. The dark-hair captain was smiling more than he had in weeks, all thanks to the bubbly young woman sitting next to him. Joanne smiled when Hank offered to get Louisa 's sweater from her car. The temperature had dropped several degrees now that the sun had set, and the young woman was starting to shiver.
“Why don't we go in and sit inside for a bit, Louisa ?” said Joanne .
“That sounds good. I am getting a bit chilled out here.”
The two women went inside and sat down at the kitchen table.
“ Joanne , did you know Captain Stanley 's wife very well?” Louisa asked, biting her lip.
“Some, but not much,” answered Joanne . “Why do you ask? Are you interested in Hank?”
Louisa blushed. “Does it show that much?” she asked. “I know that he just lost her, but I feel a connection with him.”
Joanne studied the young woman in front of her, trying to decide what to say. She had noticed the looks that had passed between the two over the course of the day. Finally, she spoke.
“If you feel something, are you planning on acting on those feelings?” she asked gently.
“I don't know, Joanne . I'm not sure Hank would even welcome them. His wife has only been gone a couple of months. I don't want to disrespect her memory.”
Hank stood just outside the screen door leading to the deck, un-noticed by the two women. He couldn't believe his ears. Louisa cared for him? Was that what had been nagging at him all day? Hank had caught Louisa looking at him a few times over the afternoon, but wasn't sure how to read the message she was sending. He had felt very comfortable in the girl's company, but was unsure how to react. Besides not wanting to disrespect Sarah 's memory, he was unsure how Marco would react.
Joanne spoke, trying to ease the girl's mind. “I don't think you would be disrespecting Sarah 's memory, Louisa , if you genuinely cared for Hank. I'm just not sure now would be the right time to reveal how you feel.”
“I know you're right, but I'm also worried about how Marco will react. I doubt he would want me to be spending time with his boss.”
Joanne laughed. “I think Marco would want you to be happy. But it might be difficult to spend time with someone if you were far away.”
“I can't explain it. When I'm around Hank, I feel like we're the only two people in the world. I suppose that sounds silly,” said Louisa , blushing again. “Do you feel that way around Roy ?”
Joanne smiled. “Yes, I do. Roy and I have known each other a long time, though.”
“I just don't know what to do. Should I keep quiet or follow my heart? Everything is just so mixed up. I never expected to feel this way about anyone after I broke up with my last boyfriend. I thought he and I would be together forever, but it didn't work out that way,” said Louisa , tears welling up in her eyes. "Turns out Tom wasn't the golden hero like I thought he was in the beginning."
Joanne touched the girl's hand, trying to comfort her. “All I can say is do what feels right to you,” she advised. “If it's meant to be, it will be.”
Louisa smiled at the older woman. “Thanks, Joanne . I guess I need to think things over and try to come to grips with it. I just don't want to rush things. I don't think it would be right.”
“Why don't we go back outside for a while?” suggested Joanne . “It's much too quiet out there. Who knows what those hose jockeys are up to."
“It's getting late. I should be heading home soon. I'm getting tired trying to sort all this out, anyways.”
The women walked out to the deck, seeing that the men were deeply involved in a game of cards.
“ Marco , I'm going to head back to Mami's. I'll call you in the morning.”
Marco looked up. “Are you sure?” he said, concerned. “Yes, I'm sure. It was nice seeing you all again. Good night,” said Louisa , making her way out to her car.
“Good night, Louisa ,” said the men. “We'll see you later.”
On the drive back to Mrs. Lopez 's home, Louisa thought about the conversation she had had with Joanne Desoto . By the time she reached her destination, the confused girl was no closer to a decision than she had been an hour ago. *” Maybe a good night's sleep will make things clearer,” she thought. “I certainly hope so.”*
One week later:
"What are you planning for today, Johnny ?" asked Roy , while changing to go home after the shift.
" Louisa is picking me up and we're going horseback riding," answered Johnny , smiling. "When I mentioned it at your barbeque, she almost foamed at the mouth," he laughed.
"You're taking my sister riding?" asked Marco , his eyes wide. " John , if I hear that you hit on her, you're in deep trouble."
"Relax, Marco . Louisa is nice, but she's not my type," soothed Johnny . "She just wanted to see my ranch and ride for a while. Nothing more."
Marco frowned as he eyed the paramedic. "Just be sure that she returns in one piece, John ."
"I'm sure Johnny won't let anything happen, Marco ," said Mike , coming into the locker room. "Besides, Louisa has ridden before. I'm sure she knows what to do and what not to do."
"I guess you're right. Sorry, John . I'm just very protective of her," said Marco . "But if something does happen, I'm not the one you'll have to worry about."
"I promise I'll keep a close eye on her, Marco ," said Johnny .
"Gage! Your ride's here!" Hank shouted from the bay. "Get a move on!"
"Coming, Cap. See you later, guys," said Johnny , dashing out of the room.
Louisa sat in her vintage Mustang, waiting for Johnny to emerge from the station. She noticed Captain Stanley walking to his car, and called to him. "Hi, Hank! How goes it?"
Hank smiled at the young woman, thinking how pretty she looked with her hair swirling around her face. "Pretty good. We had an easy shift for once. What are your plans for the day?" he asked.
" Johnny and I are going riding. He promised to show me his ranch. I admit I miss Montana ," she grinned. "Maybe pitching a few hay bales will settle me down."
Hank started to reply, but Gage's arrival interrupted the moment. "Well, enjoy yourself. Be nice, Gage," he said to the lanky paramedic, who was climbing into the car.
"I will, Cap," returned Johnny . "See you next shift."
Johnny directed Louisa as they pulled out of the station's driveway. "Another beautiful day in Southern California ," he grinned. "You hungry? We could stop and have breakfast before we head out to the ranch."
"Sounds good to me, hose jockey," said Louisa , smiling. "From what Joanne Desoto told me, you're a bottomless pit, anyways."
Johnny joined the girl in her laughter. "Bottomless pit, huh?" he teased. "Seems I'm not the only one, considering how you put away 5 hotdogs at the picnic."
"And I still keep my girlish figure," laughed Louisa . "Do you want to pack a picnic for the ride or what?"
"Way ahead of you," replied Johnny . "I ordered stuff from a deli not far from my place."
Guess we're all set then," said Louisa . "Let's eat, Junior. This cowgirl is starving !"
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
At the ranch, Johnny and Louisa saddled their mounts, and stowing their picnic lunch, started off up Johnny 's favorite trail. The girl was in awe of the beauty of the forest around her.
" Johnny , this is so incredible! It's almost like being at home," she called to him.
"I know what you mean. This place makes me kinda homesick sometimes."
The pair rode on, taking their time and enjoying the sunny day. As they rode along, they heard birds singing in the trees, adding a musical charm to the forest around them.
"We'll stop in that clearing up ahead, Louisa ," Johnny called back. "The view from the cliff there is incredible."
"Okay, Johnny ," answered Louisa , ready for a break. "How far up are we?"
"About 1,000 feet, give or take," answered the paramedic. "Wait until you see the view!"
The duo rode into the clearing that almost magically appeared in the middle of the trees. They dismounted and stretched cramped muscles. After a brief rest, they tied their horses to a nearby branch and set up camp.
Louisa stood near the edge of the cliff, awed by the panoramic sight spread out before her wondering eyes. Soaring high above, a golden eagle screamed as it spotted a meal far below in the canyon.
" Johnny , this place is gorgeous ! It's like being on top of the world," said Louisa , grinning from ear to ear. "I have never seen anything so pretty in my life!"
"Yeah, I love it up here. It's so peaceful. Sometimes I just need to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city."
"Have you ever brought anyone else up here?" asked Louisa .
" Roy and I came up here to camp a few weeks ago. We had a blast, just relaxing and fishing."
"Fishing?" questioned Louisa , her eyes lighting up. "I'm usually too busy working to go fishing anymore."
Johnny grinned at the girl's enthusiasm. "I have some hooks and line in my pack. I'm sure we could cut a couple of branches and try our luck."
Louisa laughed joyfully. "Thank you so much for bringing me here, Johnny . Marco was going to take me boating, but something, or should I say "someone", came up."
Johnny laughed. "As long as we're back before dark, it'll be okay."
"Then let's get started. I can almost taste those fish!"
Johnny cut two branches from a nearby tree and tied some line and a hook to each one. Pulling a bad of brightly-colored Gummi worms out of his pack, he strung one onto each hook.
"Gummi worms?" chuckled Louisa . "I thought I was the only one who did that."
Johnny grinned. "Come on, kid. Let's fish. Careful when the fish jump. You might just get a little damp."
"Uh huh. We'll just see who gets wet," teased Louisa . "Didn't Marco ever tell you how many times he "swam with the fishes"?"
"I'll have to mention it to him," grinned Johnny .
Johnny led the way to the pond. Louisa gazed around her, taking in all the natural beauty surrounded them and sighing in wonder. "I love it up here; it's so quiet. Not like back in the city. I thought I would go nuts listening to all that traffic," she said.
"I hear you," said Johnny . "Why do you think I come up here as much as I can?"
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
The duo reached the pond and cast their lines into the calm water. Almost immediately, the fish were snatching at the bait. In the space of a half an hour, they had caught 4 large fish and were looking forward to cooking their catch.
They headed back up the trail where they had left their horses and picnic basket. All of a sudden, Johnny heard a clatter behind him, followed by a scream. He turned around, horrified by the sight that greeted him.
Louisa had slipped on the loose gravel near the edge of the canyon and lay on the side of the trail, too silent for the paramedic's taste. Throwing down the fish,he dashed to the girl's side, checking to see that she was still alive.
" Louisa ! Can you hear me?" he asked frantically. When she didn't respond, he tried a sternal rub, eliciting a low moan from the injured girl. "Thank the spirits," he breathed. Gently sliding a hand under the girl's head, he felt the wetness of blood from a cut on the back of Louisa 's head. "Damn! Head injury!" muttered Johnny . He checked the rest of the young woman's body for injuries, breathing a heavy sign of relief as he found nothing other than a few scrapes. "Now how am I going to get you out of here?" he wondered, looking around him for a suitable object to use as a back board. Spotting an old canvas stretcher lying in the weeds close by, Johnny pulled it out to examine it. Seeing that it was mostly intact, he dragged it over to the prone girl. Carefully keeping her neck straight, he rolled Louisa onto the canvas. At the movement, Louisa moaned softly, her face twisting in pain. " Louisa ! Lie still. I need to go back and get some rope to hold you to the stretcher! I'll be right back. Don't move!" said the frantic paramedic.
Johnny dashed back to the horses and grabbed the coil of rope from his saddle. Leading his horse back with him, he prayed that he wasn't too late.
When Johnny reached the injured girl, he saw that she had lapsed into unconsciousness. He carefully tied the rope around the girl, being careful not to tie it too tight. That done, he used his shirt to fashion a cervical collar to keep the girl's neck straight. "Come on, boy," he spoke to the horse. "Let's get her out of here."
The trip back to the ranch was nerve-wracking for the paramedic. During the trip, Louisa had moaned in pain several times, but was otherwise silent. Johnny wanted to hurry, but knew that speed could only make things worse. Finally, the paramedic and his charge reached his ranch. Johnny carefully lowered the stretcher to the ground and ran inside to call for help. After what seemed an eternity, the bright red rescue squad pulled into his driveway.
"What you got , Gage?" asked Rick Collins , the paramedic from Station 36, said as he climbed out of the truck.
"It's Marco 's sister. We were up the trail riding and she fell and hit her head on a rock."
Collins blanched. "How bad?" he asked, already pulling the equipment out of the side door of the squad.
"She was unconscious when I saw her. She's bleeding from a cut on the back of her head. She moaned a few times on the way down, but never fully woke up."
Collins and his partner, Dave Phillips , took over, checking vitals and contacting the hospital. Receiving instructions, they immobilized the girl and started an IV. Johnny put the horses into the corral and went inside to call Marco , dreading the task.
" Marco ? It's John . Um, there's been an accident. Can you meet me at Rampart?" he said, his voice trembling.
"An accident? What happened?" said Marco .
" Louisa fell and hit her head. I'm not sure how bad, Marco . Collins and Phillips from 36's are here. The ambulance just left."
"I'm on my way. I want to know exactly what happened," said the Latino firefighter, anger and fear making his voice rough.
Johnny hung up the phone, a tear sliding down his cheek. "Spirits, please let Louisa be all right. It's in your hands now," he whispered., climbing into his Rover and driving to Rampart.
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
When Johnny reached Rampart, Marco was already there, surrounded by the remaining members of their shift. Spotting Gage coming down the hall, Lopez launched himself at the man, grabbing him by the front of his shirt.
"What the hell happened up there, Gage?" he shouted, a vein throbbing in his neck. "How did she get hurt? Tell me!!"
Hank and Roy pried Marco 's hands loose from Johnny 's shirt. " Marco ! Calm down!" ordered Hank sternly. "This won't get you anywhere."
" Marco stepped back, horrified by what he had just done.
"I'm sorry, John ," he whispered. "Please, tell me what happened up there."
Johnny took a deep breath, and said, "We were coming back from the pond with our fish and I heard a clatter and then Louisa cry out. When I turned around, she was on the ground. She apparently slipped on some loose gravel and hit her head on a stone buried in the ground. I'm so sorry, Marco . It was all my fault." Tears rolled down Gage's face, washing away some dust clinging to his cheeks.
" Madre de Dios ," whispered Marco . "Was she conscious at all?"
"No," said Johnny , swiping at his tears. "She moaned a few times on the way back, but that was it."
"How did you get her back to your place, Johnny ?" asked Roy , remembering how far the pond was from Johnny 's ranch.
"I found an old canvas stretcher in the weeds and used the rope from my saddle to keep her on it," replied Gage .
Before anyone could reply, Dr. Joe Early came out of the treatment room where he had been taking care of Louisa . His grim expression didn't bode well for the situation.
"Doc, how is she?" asked Roy , placing a steadying hand on Marco 's arm.
"We've stopped the bleeding, but she's still unresponsive. Johnny , the paramedics said she moaned on the way back down to your place. Is that right?" he said.
'That's right. How bad is she, Doc?"
"Well," returned Doc Early, "I'm sending her up for a CAT scan as soon as I stitch up the gash in her head. I'll know more after see the results of the CAT scan."
"Can I see her?" asked Marco . "Just for a minute, Marco . I need to suture that cut."
Marco followed the doctor into the treatment room, uncertain of what he would see. Louisa was lying on the table, looking paler than he had ever seen her. Marco reached out and took his sister's hand, cradling it gently between his own.
" Louie , I'm here. You're going to be all right. Lucky for you, you've got a thick skull," he said, tears welling up in his dark eyes.
Dixie McCall rested her hand on the fireman's shoulder, squeezing gently to convey her support. " Marco , we need to take her up to x-ray now," she spoke softly.
The Latino man looked up and nodded. "I can't believe this happened, Miss McCall . Will she be okay?"
"She's young, healthy, and strong, Marco . But head injuries are hard to call. We'll know more after the CAT scan comes back."
" Gracias, " said Marco . "Take good care of my baby sister, will you?"
Dixie smiled softly. "You bet," she said.
Marco walked out of the room, making his way to the waiting area. Gage flinched when he saw Marco , and slid down in his chair, feeling guilty.
Noticing the man's discomfort, Marco smiled. "Relax, John . I don't blame you for this. I know it was an accident. No one is to blame. Besides, Louisa always was kind of a klutz," he smiled trying to relieve the tension building up in the room.
Johnny visibly relaxed. "I feel awful, Marco . I should have been paying more attention to where we were walking. I knew that there was lose gravel there."
Roy patted his partner's shoulder. " Johnny , Marco is right. It was an accident . How many times have we slipped on that gravel up there?"
Gage nodded, seeing what his best friend was doing. "You're right, Roy . But I still feel awful. I hope that Louisa will be okay."
For the first time since arriving at the hospital, Chet Kelly spoke up. "Yeah, Marco . Louisa 's tough; she'll be fine. Don't worry."
Marco smiled at his friend. "If knocking her head all those times as a child didn't hurt her, why should this? Mama always said Louisa was hard-headed." The Latino man suddenly gasped. "I forgot to call Mama!! I better do that right now!" he said, running for the pay phone.
Johnny stopped the man with a hand on his arm. "It's okay. I called her before I left the house. She said she was on her way."
At that moment, Maria Lopez came running into the waiting area. "Where is she? Where's my baby?" she cried.
"Mama, Doctor Early took her up to x-ray. They should be back shortly," Marco said, trying to calm the older woman.
Maria paused, drawing in a breath. She noticed Johnny standing behind the others and walked over to him. Taking the younger man's hands in hers, she said, "Thank you for getting my baby back safely, Juan . I thank God that you were with her when she fell."
Johnny 's mouth dropped open and he couldn't speak for a moment. Recovering his composure, he said, "But this is my fault. If I hadn't taken her up there, she wouldn't have been hurt," he protested.
" No , Juan . We don't know that. It could have happened anywhere," replied Mrs. Lopez .
Johnny started to speak, but was interrupted by the return of Dixie and Dr. Early . Mrs. Lopez turned her attention to the gray-haired man. " Dr. Early , how is Louisa ?"
Joe smiled. "There is a hairline fracture of the left parietal bone of the skull, but no underlying hematoma. Other than that, she has a few scrapes and a gash in the back of her head that I have sutured."
All those gathered around the doctor breathed a sign of relief.
Dr. Early continued: "She is still unconscious, however. All her vitals are normal and she is slightly responsive to pain stimulus."
"When will she wake up, Doc?" asked Hank. "That's hard to say, Hank. Head injuries are an inexact science. It could be an hour, a day, a week……"
"Or she could never wake up," said Marco . "She's got youth and heath on her side, Marco . Don't give up hope."
Maria drew herself up straight. "May we see her?" she asked. "I need to see for myself that she is all right."
"Certainly. As soon as we have her settled in the I.C.U., you can go in. It shouldn't be long."
No one noticed that Johnny had slipped away until Dr. Early returned. "Where did Gage run off to?" asked Hank. "I thought he would want to see Louisa ."
"I don't know, Cap. I'll see if I can find him," answered Roy , turning and walking down the corridor towards the lounge.
Desoto found Johnny sitting at a table in the doctor's lounge, a cup of coffee in front of him. Gage looked up as Roy entered the room. "How is she?" asked the junior paramedic, his voice sad and soft.
" Dr. Early says there is a hairline fracture of left parietal bone, but no hematoma. He thinks she will be just fine."
"Good. Roy , I feel awful about all this. Marco and Mrs. Lopez must hate me right now."
Roy sighed. " Johnny , no one blames you for this. Certainly not Mrs. Lopez or Marco . None of us do either."
"Are you sure, Roy ?" Johnny asked, afraid to think that Marco blamed him for Louisa 's fall.
"Very sure," grinned the blond man. "In fact, I'll bet they would want you to visit Louisa when she gets settled."
Johnny smiled slightly. "That would be great, Roy . I was really freaked out when I turned around and saw her sprawled out on the trail like that."
"Come on, Junior. Let's go check on your 'patient'".
"Right behind you, Roy ."
Three weeks later
Hank sat beside Louisa 's bed in the I.C.U., listening to the steady beep-beep of the heart monitor attached to the girl's chest. She had been comatose for three weeks after the fall in the canyon. Hank had been coming to the hospital on his days off, waiting for the young woman to wake up.
As the door behind him opened, Hank turned around, seeing Marco Lopez come into the room.
"How is she, Cap?" whispered Marco , looking for any signs of consciousness in the supine girl.
"No change, Marco ," replied Hank. " Dr. Early was just here, but he said there is no sure sign of when she will wake up."
Marco studied his Captain. To him, the man looked exhausted, not to mention depressed. Dixie McCall had told him that Hank had been here nearly every day, except when the crew was on duty. This fact puzzled the Latino fire fighter, considered none of his crew members were all that close to Louisa .
Just then, the two men heard a sound, different from the sounds created by the life-support machines. It sounded almost like a moan. They looked down at the girl, noticing that she appeared to be waking up. Marco dashed out into the hallway, calling to a nurse to page Dr. Early .
"Dr. Early, to I.C.U., stat. Dr. Joe Early , I.C.U., stat," came the announcement. Hank and Marco waited impatiently for the doctor to respond.
"Guys, what's happening?" said Dr. Early , coming into the room.
"We think Louisa might be waking up, Doc," said Hank, gesturing to the form lying on the bed. "She moaned a little, and looked like she was trying to open her eyes."
"Let's see what we got here," Dr. Early said calmly, smiling a little at the two men's expectant expressions. "Why don't you go and wait out in the hall?"
"Okay, Doc. Come on, Marco ," said Captain Stanley , leading his friend outside.
Hearing a small commotion at the end of the hall, Hank and Marco turned to see the rest of their shift-mates running towards them. "We heard the page. What's going on?" asked Johnny Gage , with an anxious look on his handsome face.
Marco grinned broadly, showing off his white teeth. "We're not sure, John , but we think Louisa might be coming out of her coma."
The crew breathed a collective sign of relief. They all knew how anxious Marco had been these past three weeks.
Chet Kelly started to speak, but was interrupted my Dr. Early coming out of the I.C.U. The gray-haired doctor smiled, and said, "You were right. Louisa is definitely showing signs of awareness. At the rate she's going, it shouldn't be much longer."
"Thank God!" said Chet, with a grin that threatened to split his face in half. "Does this mean that she'll be okay, Doc?"
"It's a good sign, Chet," answered the doctor. "Her vitals are good, and she is more responsive to stimulus now."
Marco smiled, tears of joy welling into his expressive eyes. "Can we see her?" he asked.
"One at a time, Marco . And only for a few minutes. Let me know if there is any further response."
As Marco walked into the I.C.U., the rest of the crew went to find the chapel and say a prayer of thanks to God for pulling their friend through this ordeal. Johnny was still feeling a bit guilty for what he thought was his fault. Knowing Gage as well as he did, Roy noticed this fact.
" Johnny , are you still blaming yourself for this? It wasn't your fault!" he said, trying to ease his friend's torment.
"I know that, Roy . I just wish I'd had chosen another route to the campsite."
" John , stop beating yourself up about this," said Hank. " Dr. Early told us that the likelihood of Louisa having any permanent damage was very slim. Besides, Roy is right. This was not your fault."
"Thanks, Cap," grinned the paramedic. "I would never forgive myself if she wasn't completely okay."
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
Later that afternoon
Hank had taken up residence beside Louisa 's bed again. For the past three weeks, as the girl lay there unconscious, he had been wrestling with feelings he had thought were dead. Since Sarah 's death, Hank had been, in turn, angry, sad, lonely, and resigned. Now he had one more feeling to add to the list: guilt. Hank had grown to like Marco 's sister more than he had thought possible. She had a quick wit and a spirit that made him feel almost alive again. When Hank had gotten the news that Louisa had been injured, his heart had leapt into his throat, and the first thought that had gone through his head had been "not again." As he sat next to the hospital bed, Hank thought back over his reaction, wondering if he would have the courage to admit to Louisa how he felt. He had fallen in love with the young woman. *But does she feel the same way about me ?"* he wondered. The lanky man decided that time would tell, and he would have to wait.
Hank was startled out of his reverie by a sound. At once he realized that Louisa had spoken.
"Hank?" came the soft whisper. "What happened? Where am I?" asked the confused girl, looking around her with fear shining in her eyes.
"Calm down, Louisa . You're all right. You took a bad fall. You're at Rampart Hospital ," soothed Hank, a wide smile on his face. "I'll go get the doctor."
Louisa blinked, wondering how long she had been here. Her head hurt terribly and her mouth felt like she had been chewing on a feather pillow.
Hank returned, followed by Dr. Early . "Welcome back," said the doctor. "How do you feel?"
"Like a herd of elephants stomped on my head," came the reply. "How long have I been here?"
"Three weeks,"
"Three weeks ?!? Are you serious? What happened?"
"From what Gage told us, you slipped on a patch of gravel and hit your head. You have a small hairline fracture and a moderate concussion, but other than that, you're just fine," said Dr. Early .
"Just fine, he says. Then why does my head feel like it's splitting in two?" answered Louisa , wincing. "How about an aspirin, Doc? Or maybe something to drink?"
Hank and Dr. Early laughed. "Of course," said Hank. "Here. Drink it slow now."
"Yes, Daddy ," said Louisa , smiling. "Much better. Has anyone thought to call my family?"
Marco and the rest of the guys are on their way," answered Hank. "I called them as soon as I had Dr. Early paged."
At that moment, the door burst open and Marco , followed by the rest of his shift-mates, came into the room. " Louisa ! Thank God!" he said. The sentiment was echoed by the men, as they crowded around the bed.
Louisa , noticing that Johnny was hanging back a little, said, " Johnny ? What's wrong?" The concern was evident in her voice.
Gage looked up, a strange expression on his face. " Louisa , I'm so sorry this happened."
Louisa looked confused. "Sorry? Why are you sorry? It's not your fault I tripped over my own two feet," she grinned. "It's not like you pushed me or anything. Or did you," she teased.
Johnny grinned, relieved. "Nah. I might push the Phantom, but I'd never push you," he said, chuckling.
The rest of the crew laughed at Chet's indignant expression. "Now wait a minute….." he began, as the men and Louisa laughed. "Gotcha, Chet," grinned Gage .
The I.C.U.nurse entered the room. "Okay, now. let's let this young lady get some rest. You can all visit more tomorrow."
As the men turned to leave the room, Louisa spoke softly. "Hank, can you stay for a few minutes, please? I need to talk to you about something."
Hank looked surprised. "Um, I guess I could stay, if you like." With that, he took a seat beside her bed, wondering what she had to say.
Louisa looked down at her hands for a minute and then spoke. "I know this may not be the proper time, but, while I was unconscious, it seemed like I could hear you talking to me. Have you been here the entire time?"
Hank was surprised. "Yes, I was," he said. "I was worried about you." The Captain's face flushed with embarrassment. "I suppose you think that's strange," he said.
Louisa smiled. "No. Not at all. I think it's very sweet," she said, reaching out to take Hank's hand. Blushing, she continued. "I can't explain it, but when I heard your voice, I felt like I had something to come back to." She chuckled. "Listen to me; going on like some giddy schoolgirl."
"I know this may be a strange time to ask, but when you get out of here, will you have dinner with me?" asked Hank, surprising himself.
Louisa smiled. "I'd love to. But I'm not sure Marco will be too thrilled. But he's my brother, not my keeper."
Hank grinned. "I should let you get some rest," he said, getting up to leave. "Can I call you later tonight? You know, just to check up on you?"
"I'd like that," replied Louisa , feeling better than she had in weeks. " Dr. Early says he might move me to a regular room later, so you should be able to get through."
Hank squeezed Louisa 's hand. "Rest. I'll talk to you later."
Bye, Hank."
After Stanley left, Louisa lay back in her bed, trying to find a comfortable position. Just as she closed her eyes, the door opened and Dixie McCall came in.
"Glad to see you finally awake," she said. "How are you feeling?"
"Better than I have in a long time, Dix ," Louisa responded. "I feel like I've been here forever."
Dixie smiled. "Was that Hank Stanley I just saw leaving? Something you want to tell me?" teased the head nurse.
Louisa blushed. " Dix , just between you and me, but I think I'm in love," said Louisa .
Dixie was taken back for a moment, not sure how to respond. Finally, she said, " Louisa , slow down. In love? With whom?" she asked.
"Hank Stanley ," came the reply. "I know it may seem sudden, but I can't explain it. You don't think I'm going too fast, do you?"
"Well, Hank did just lose his wife. I'm not sure that he is ready to move on again just yet."
Louisa sighed, understanding what Dixie was trying to say. "I know that, but I can't help the way I feel. Besides," she said with a grin, "he wants to take me to dinner once I get out of the hospital."
Dixie laughed. "Dinner, huh? By that time, you'll be ready for something other than hospital cuisine."
"The only thing that really bothers me is how Marco and Mami will react. Marco may not want me to date his Captain. But at least, it's not Chet or Johnny ."
"Hank is a good man, Louisa , but take things slow," advised the nurse. "Don't rush into anything."
"Thanks, Dixie . I appreciate your advice. I'll keep the brakes on."
"Good. Now get some rest. Joe plans to move you out of here later on this afternoon."
"Bye, Dix . Se you later."
Louisa smiled, thinking back to Hank's invitation. The smile melted off her face when she envisioned Marco 's response to the news. *"Oh, boy. Marco will definitely not be a happy camper when I tell him. Oh, well. I'll deal with that when the time comes." With that, the girl turned over onto her side and drifted off, a happy grin on her face.
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
Three days later
Marco Lopez walking into Rampart Hospital , wearing a broad smile. Louisa was being released today, and the Latino man was very happy, to say the least.
As he went past the nurses' station, he saw that the door to his sister's room was open. Curious, he quickened his steps a little. When he reached the room, he heard Hank Stanley's voice and his eyebrows raised, wondering why Cap was here.
"I'm so happy that you're finally going home today, Lou ," Hank was saying. "You must be going crazy in here."
"You got that right, Hank," answered Louisa with a grin. "A few more days of hospital food, and even Chet's cooking would taste good."
Hank laughed, knowing exactly what she meant. "I'll have to bring you over some of my famous clam chowder to get you used to good food again," he said.
"Sounds great, Hank. I love your clam chowder."
At the moment, Marco walked into the room. With a glance, he noticed that Louisa and Hank were holding hands. The Latino man's face registered shock, confusion, and then anger.
"What in Hades is going on in here?!" he exclaimed, his eye flashing dangerously. "Cap, why are you holding hands with my sister?"
Louisa and Hank looked at each other, wondering how to break the news to Marco .
" Marco , calm down. I ca explain everything," Louisa , said, trying to prevent a major explosion. "Hank and I have become close friends since I came out of my coma."
"Just how close, Louie ? Close enough that you're holding hands with a man who just lost his wife?!?" Marco was very close to losing his tenuous hold on his temper. "Does Mama know about this?" he nearly shouted.
"Keep your voice down. This is a hospital, you know. She doesn't yet, but she will soon enough," Louisa retorted, close to losing her temper as well. " Marco , in case you have forgotten, I am an adult, and I can choose my own friends, thank you very much!"
Marco turned to Hank. "And what do you have to say about this, Cap? Sarah has only been gone a few months and you're already moving on?"
Hank took a deep breath, trying to be diplomatic. " Marco , I like your sister; I won't deny that. We were hoping that you would understand."
"UNDERSTAND?!? Are you kidding? She's 23 years old, Cap, too young for you!"
" Marco ! Stop it!" Louisa shouted, losing the battle to hold her temper. "I'm not too young. Stop treating me like a baby! I know what I'm doing!"
Drawn by the loud voices, Dixie and Dr. Early stepped into the room. "What is going on in here?" asked Dixie , seeing the angry faces. "We could hear you all the way down the hall."
Louisa looked up. "Sorry, Dixie . Marco just found out that Hank and I are involved and, needless to say, he's not taking it well."
"You're darn right I'm not taking it well! What is going to happen when you go back to Montana , Louisa ? Or haven't you even thought that far ahead?" Marco said, anger in his voice.
Louisa blushed. "I'm not sure I'm going to go back, Marco . I might just stay on for a while."
Marco clenched his fists and tried to calm down. "First you say you can't wait to go back, and now you want to stay? I don't understand you sometimes, little sister."
" Marco , please don't be angry with me. You're my only brother and I love you dearly, but I have to live my own life. Nothing is set in stone as of yet, but if things work out, I will be staying in Los Angeles ."
Marco had heard enough. "All right. We'll discuss this at home. Are you ready to go?"
"Yes, I am. Marco , please let me be the one to tell Mami what's going on. She'll take it better coming from me."
"I'm not so sure about that," Marco muttered under his breath. "If you think I'm mad, wait until she hears about this!"
Louisa rolled her eyes, and collected her things. "Hank, I'll call you later once I talk to Mami. Dixie , Dr. Early , thank you so much for everything."
"Take care," replied Dr. Early . "If you start feeling out of sorts, don't hesitate to call me."
"Thank you; I will," promised Louisa . "Come one, Marco . Let's get out of here. No sense in putting off telling Mami that I may be staying."
The siblings left. Hank sighed, wondering how the rest of his crew would react to the news that he and Louisa were involved. He had predicted Marco 's reaction perfectly. Now he would have to deal with the rest of his men.