Of course there were other reasons why he was spurring his horse on! He couldn’t believe how he missed Michaela and the kids. Last time he’d returned home from a trip Michaela had admitted that she’d been having dreams … about him … . That memory brought a smile to his face. Michaela’s coyness and embarrassment about such matters made her all the more endearing to him – always had. At the time he’d only vaguely mentioned that he was also prone to dreaming about her, but this time she seemed to fill his dreams constantly. Maybe it was because of her condition - he was always concerned about her attempting to do too much. Maybe it was because since back in April, when they’d been forced to spend a night out in an isolated cabin and utilised that entire night talking and loving each other, they’d been happier than he could ever remember. He'd always believed that the two of them were capable of communicating without words, across space, and maybe this time, while he was away, that was what had been happening. All he knew was that she never left his thoughts.

And lastly he was looking forward to the comforts of home - a hot meal, sitting by the fire with his family, a bath. That thought brought him up short. For years he’d lived in the wilderness making do, using the ways of the Cheyenne. A quick dip in a freezing stream, a shave whenever he got around to it, these had been necessary habits he’d formed back then. But now? Perhaps he was going soft, because he really *was* looking forward to a shave, soaking in a warm bath, the fresh smell of soap and bay rum, and maybe, if he was lucky, Michaela there to wash his back ….and …. His heart quickened for a moment.

Looking up into the sky, searching for a sign of the sun’s position behind the dense, dark cloud, he did a quick calculation. It must be about two o’clock. Surely with her new clinic hours she’d be at home by now. Unless, as so often happened, something had delayed her, kept her in town - his heart sank. He sent a heartfelt message to the spirits to allow him to reach home before the bad weather hit, and that Michaela would be there when he arrived. Another blast of icy wind buffeted he and his mount. He drew the fronts of his jacket close around him, and turned up the collar to protect his neck against the elements.

He heaved a sigh of relief as at last home was in sight, sitting there nestled into the steep slope, just as it should be, and yes, from the chimney there was smoke spiralling upwards and sideways, being blown almost parallel with the ground by the strong gusty wind. He slowed his horse as he neared the yard and was surprised to see another horse tethered on the outside rail of the corral, a horse he didn’t recognise. Again his heart sank. A visitor, when he so yearned to be alone with Michaela, and the kids if they were home.

As he reached the gate, he slid from his sweating, chestnut mare and loosely tied her to the yard post, before walking across and unlatching the gate. Once in the barn he quickly wiped her down and covered her with a blanket. His supplies and surveying equipment he left in a pile on the floor to be sorted later. When he emerged into the daylight again he half expected that whoever had been visiting may have gone, or at least be departing, but the homestead door remained firmly shut and the unknown bay was still tied to the rail.

Well there was only one thing for it. He straightened his shoulders, ran his fingers through his unruly, wind-blown hair and prepared to be sociable, though making small talk was definitely the last thing he felt like doing at the moment. He ascended the front steps, thrust the front door open and stopped short. There, before his eyes was the last person he’d ever have expected to be sitting companionably sharing coffee with Michaela at their dining table. In the space of just a few seconds a stab of uncontrollable jealousy ran through his entire body, knocking the breath out of him, followed by dismay at his own reaction, and then calm sanity as he realised there was no way in the world he should be jealous of seeing Michaela and this man together.

In the meantime, Michaela was fighting the urge to leap up out of her chair and throw her arms around Sully’s neck. How could she miss him so much in just three short days? Her eyes had lit up and her face beamed.

Sully smiled lovingly in her direction and then stepped forward, towards their visitor, his hand held out, "Howdy Hank," he said amicably. "What brings ya all the way out here?"

The rangy barkeep stood and took Sully’s proffered hand. "Hey Sully, I was out this way, thought I’d just drop in …. check if Michaela needed anythin’," he answered almost apologetically, even a little embarrassed.

Sully walked around the table to Michaela, stooped to kiss her lightly on the cheek and then stood behind her, his hands resting possessively on her shoulders. "That’s good of ya Hank …. thanks for takin’ the trouble," said Sully, all the while amazed by Hank’s gesture and apparent concern.

"Aint nothin’ ….. like I said ….. I was just passin’ by." Hank eased his chair back and stood. "An’ now you’re here ….. I’d best be headin’ back to town ….. saloon’ll be gittin’ busy ‘bout now." He grinned at the couple opposite him, both of whom had declined on many occasions to frequent his establishment. He strode towards the door. "Be seein’ ya …… Michaela …. Sully." He glanced back at Michaela and added, "Thanks for the coffee."

Sully, suddenly remembering his manners, quickly walked to the door and pulled it open. "Ah … be seein’ ya in town Hank," he said politely. He looked out at the dark sky and windswept landscape. "I wouldn’ be wasting any time gittin’ back ….. looks like some real bad weather’s blowin’ in."

The barkeep turned and gave him a wry smile, tipped the edge of his broad-rimmed hat and in few long strides, crossed the yard, mounted his horse and took off at a gallop.

Sully closed the door against the strong, cold wind and turned back to discover Michaela right behind him. "Hey ….," he said softly. "Missed ya …." He held out his arms and Michaela walked into them.

"Mmmm …… missed you too," she said, her cheek resting against his chest.

He looked down on the top of her head, waiting for her to lift her eyes to his. When she did he leant down to kiss her lovingly. As the kiss ended he murmured, "Mmm … missed that too."

As Michaela circled his waist with her arms in under his coat she exclaimed, "Sully … you’re frozen and your clothes are damp. You’ll get a chill."

"Well I *was* kinda thinkin’ about a warm bath." He looked around. "Kids home?" he asked.

"Only Katie …. and she’s exhausted. Went to sleep only about twenty minutes ago …. She’ll probably sleep for a couple of hours."

"Why’s she exhausted?"

"You won’t believe me when I tell you," answered Michaela mysteriously. "I’ll tell you all about it after we get you warm. You go upstairs and get some clean clothes and anything else you need ….. I’ll put some water on to heat and pour you a coffee. Have you eaten?"

"Well not since breakfast …. was kinda anxious to git home," he replied with a glint in his eye that caused Michaela to blush.

"Well then I’ll make you some lunch too …. Now go on …. get your things." She shooed him up the stairs and then went into the kitchen where she industriously pumped water into every available kettle and pot and put them on the hob to heat.

When Sully came down the stairs a few minutes later Michaela was busily slicing cold ham, and humming as she did so. He couldn’t resist walking up behind her to enfold her in his arms and nuzzle her neck.

"Sully!" she exclaimed. "You shouldn’t surprise someone when they’re working with one of these …" She turned and brandished a large and very sharp carving knife under his nose. Despite her sharp words *and* knife, her face was alive with amusement and delight at having him home. "Now you sit down and eat and then we’ll see about preparing that bath."

Michaela tried not to look as Sully shed his clothes and stepped into the bath, but she couldn’t resist, never could. Her breath caught in her throat as reflections from the leaping flames in the fireplace danced on his bronzed skin. Even after three and a half years of marriage, enjoying the carnal delights of being with her husband still made her feel a little wicked. As Sully settled into the warm, steaming water and sighed contentedly he looked up and caught her almost lustful expression. He smiled broadly causing Michaela to blush and quickly look away.

"Ya could join me ya know …" he said quietly and mischievously, his eyes twinkling.

"Sully!"

"Well ya could …"

"It’s the middle of the day!"

"What’s that got to do with it?"

She bit her lip. "Ah …. Katie’s upstairs …"

"Yeah … asleep …"

"She might wake up …." said Michaela, obviously weakening.

"I promise if she does I’ll git out an’ go up to her ……. An’ stay up there long enough for ya to git dry an’ dressed if ya want …"

There was a pause then, "I won’t fit ….. not at the moment anyway." She rubbed her swollen stomach.

Sully sat up straighter in the tub and indicated the expanse of water in front of him. "Reckon you’ll fit just fine ….. *especially* at the moment …," obviously not referring to her size.

Michaela glanced back at the front door. "What if someone comes?"

"We’ll lock the door ….. sorry *doors* ….. can’t have Matthew comin’ in interruptin’ us." His smile was much broader now.

Both of their minds flew back to a time just after they were married when Matthew had arrived home at a most inopportune moment. Michaela caught Sully’s eyes, blushed and grinned too.

Sully continued, "Besides …. with the weather that’s brewin’ out there …. nobody’s gonna be visitin’. When are the boys comin’ home?"

"Matthew’s having supper out at the Chateau with Colleen and Andrew, and Brian’s working with Dorothy at the Gazette - expect him home around supper time." She glanced worriedly out of the window at the unsettled weather. "He will be alright, won’t he Sully?"

"Course he will …. If I know Dorothy she won’ let him leave if it looks stormy." He eyed her hopefully. "So …. looks like we’ll be alone for a while …. Whatdya say?"

She stood biting her lip, wanting desperately to give in, but even after all this time, still a little shy and unsure of herself.

His eyes twinkling, he said quietly and threateningly. "If ya don’ hurry, I’ll git out an’ put ya in ….. clothes an’ all."

Michaela chuckled and suddenly conceded. She walked briskly to each door, ensuring that the key was turned and then, her eyes lowered, she began to slowly undo the buttons on her blouse.

Sully watched as Michaela shyly undressed in front of him. At times, in the privacy of their bedroom, during their lovemaking, she would surprise him with her openness, her lack of inhibition. And then there were times like today, when she reverted to being the bashful bride, unsure of herself and her appeal. If only he could make her understand that she should never be unsure of herself with him. Now, as she slipped her petticoats and undergarments down and moved tentatively towards the tub, he felt as if he’d explode with his need for her.

He held out his hand to assist her into the tub and then gently settled her between his legs, her back against his chest. His arousal was instant and he knew she was aware of it, as she nestled into him and her body relaxed against his. He enfolded her in his arms, pulling her closer so that her head rested against his shoulder. He began to place light, loving kisses to her neck and shoulder. She closed her eyes savouring the sensations he was engendering, and gently stroked his arms and hands holding her so lovingly.

"I wish we had some way of keeping the water hot," she said dreamily. "I could sit here with you like this forever."

"Might get a little wrinkly," whispered Sully against her ear between kisses.

She chuckled. "Mmm …. but it feels so good. Hey, listen Sully …. its raining. I love the sound of rain on the roof, especially when I’m feeling all warm and you’re holding me in your arms. I know you were only away three days but I missed you so much."

His embrace tightened a little. "Mmm … I missed you too …… I was kinda surprised to see Hank here when I got home though."

Michaela chuckled again. "That was nothing ….. if you’d arrived home at the same time yesterday ……" She glanced up at the clock. "No about this time actually … it would have been Jake. I think they’re my new self-appointed guardian angels."

Sully stopped nibbling at Michaela’s neck in amazement. "Huh?"

"See the pile of wood next to the stove and each fireplace? Hank did that. And did you notice the wagon had been unhitched and the horse stabled in the barn? He did that too. It was the same yesterday with Jake. He said he’d just dropped by to see if there was anything I needed doing. It seems that when you’re away, they’ve decided that they’ll make sure I’m looking after myself." She turned to look into Sully’s wide, startled eyes. "Mmm … I had the same reaction as you …. but its rather endearing really. Rough exteriors and soft hearts."

"Funny I’ve never thought of ‘em like that before …. seems I’ll have to change my opinion," murmured Sully wonderingly.

"But that’s not the best part Sully," laughed Michaela.

"Whatdya mean?"

"Well, you know I said Katie was exhausted?"

"Yeah."

"Well … that was because of Hank."

"Hank!?"

"I’m sure he has no idea that I was watching. He finished piling up the wood in here and then went out to move the wagon down beside the fence. Unbeknownst to him or I, Katie followed him out. I looked out of the window in time to see him push the wagon into position and turn to almost trip over Katie right behind him. I expected him to be angry. Instead he stooped down to tickle her, and then I don’t know what he said, but she took off squealing in delight and for the next half hour or so he chased her around and around the big oak. Every now and then he’d catch her and swing her up high over his head and then put her down and she’d take off again. It was so funny Sully. I couldn’t believe it. You know how the grass down there is fairly long? Sometimes all I could see was the top of her blond head and this tall streak of a man running around and around the oak. Needless to say, when they both came inside, out of breath, I didn’t mention that I’d been watching. He was so gentle with her Sully – I’d never have believed it."

"Neither would I," said Sully quietly, falling still and silent as he contemplated this new side to a man he’d known, or thought he’d known, for many years. "Funny how kids can change a person … for the better," he mused. "An talkin’ of kids …. look at how ya belly’s sitting up out of the water Michaela, like an island in the middle of a lake," he chortled.

"Sully!" she exclaimed, blushing. "I can’t help it!"

"I know …. I was only jokin’ Michaela." He began to lovingly caress her skin, running his hands over her stomach and up to gently cup her breasts. "Ya aint getting’ cold are ya?" he asked softly.

"No," she replied, her voice a low whisper. "Sort of warm….." She moaned softly as he increased the intensity of his caresses over her body, his mouth trailing wet kisses across her shoulders and up her neck to her ear.

Then, cupping her chin, he gently turned her head to look into her eyes, now misty and heavy with desire, and then he dipped his head so that he could cover her mouth with his. Provoked by the sensations which had been building in both of them, the kiss was suddenly afire with uncontained passion. As Sully slipped his tongue into her mouth, Michaela gasped, and eagerly returned the gesture, the prolonged kiss deepening until they were panting and their hearts were pounding.

"Sully," moaned Michaela. "Please ….."

Sully broke off the kiss to draw up his knees, lift Michaela slightly and then settle her down in his lap, before wrapping his legs around her, holding her captive. His arousal was almost unbearable and he enfolded her tightly in his arms and pulled her back hard against himself. As Michaela, restricted by the situation they were in, began to move gently above him, he grunted with desire and appreciation and returned to the stimulating stroking of her body above and below the water.

Michaela was certain she was going to explode as Sully stirred her with his desire, his loving. His beautiful hands were arousing sensations in her which were overwhelming. While Sully, who had instigated this unique lovemaking, was now unsure as to whether he was going to live through it! He keened softly, "Michaela……!" The tempo of her gentle movement increased and his breath caught. He could hear her moaning and sighing softly with the effort, the desire, the need for fulfilment which arrived quickly and shatteringly for both of them.

Michaela slumped back against Sully and closed her eyes, while he uncrossed his legs and gently slipped free. When their heartbeats had returned to something akin to normal, Michaela shivered and turned slightly to look at him. "*Now* I’m cold," she said softly.

"Me too …." replied Sully. His eyes glanced upwards. "Katie’s still asleep."

"Mmm … so she is ….," Michaela purred.

"How ‘bout we dry each other off real quick an’ head upstairs an’ git warm under the covers til she wakes?"

Without replying Michaela edged forward in the water and awkwardly pulled herself upright. She grinned down at Sully. "Coming slowcoach?" she asked saucily and stepped out of the tub.

"I dunno … I kinda like it …" said Sully laconically, as he reluctantly finished tying his tie.

"You would! *You* don’t have to go out in public in it!" said Michaela, now very close to tears. "Who ever heard of a pregnant fairy godmother anyway?"

Sully came to rest his hands gently on her shoulders. "Well it *is* fairy god*mother*," he said placatingly.

Michaela dismissed his remark and went back to minutely examining her image in the mirror. "But look at the neckline …?!"

"Mmmm ….. that’s the best part," said Sully with a grin.

Michaela humphed disgustedly and again tried to pull the neckline up a little higher, to a more respectable level.

Sully grasped her hands in his. "Ya look beautiful Michaela ….. you’ll have everyone starin’ at ya."

"But I don’t want everyone staring at me!" she wailed again. "How could Colleen have made the neckline so low? I’m sure it wasn’t like this when we drafted the pattern."

Once again Sully grasped her hands in his and then turned her to face him. "How long ago did ya draft the pattern?" he asked.

"A few weeks …. maybe a month ago," muttered Michaela dejectedly.

"Uh huh," Sully replied non-commitedly.

"Uh huh?! Is that all you’re going to say?"

"Well Michaela, seems to me a lot’s happened to you in the last month …. don’ ya reckon ….. um …… maybe things’ve changed a little." He gently ran his hands over her swollen abdomen.

Michaela blushed and glanced down at the swell of her breasts clearly visible above the neckline.

"Seems to me …… some places mighta grown a bit," he said softly, staring into her beautiful eyes. He lovingly traced the neckline of her dress, from one shoulder to the other, running the tips of his fingers over the swell of her breasts. Then he bent to place a gentle kiss above each one. "An’ I really mean it when I say ya look beautiful," he added sincerely.

Michaela trembled and looked up into his adoring eyes. He bent and captured her mouth for a long, leisurely kiss. When they parted he said quietly, "Feelin’ better?"

"Well a little ……. but I’ll still feel embarrassed. I don’t think the town’s seen me looking quite like this before." She turned back to the mirror. She was wearing a long, soft pink satin gown, cut low in the neckline which had been painstakingly edged with tiny pearly beads. The sleeves were full at the shoulder and then tapered just past the elbow to fit snugly at the wrist. Colleen had skilfully cut the fabric so that it fell softly from just under Michaela’s breasts to the ground. "Well …. if it wasn’t for this problem …" She again tugged at the neckline. " ….it’d be rather lovely wouldn’t it?"

"Yep …… I think it is anyway …. just the way it is …." said Sully. "So, are we goin’ to the Halloween party or not?"

"Of course we’re going …… but I think I’ll just …." Michaela began to rummage around in the bottom drawer of the big chest. "Here it is," she said triumphantly as she withdrew a fine, cream cape and flung it around her shoulders. "That’s better!"

"Ahh …. I remember that ….. ya wore it to ……" He feigned memory loss as Michaela looked on with amusement. "Ah yes …. the Sweethearts Dance ….. the first time we kissed ….. well *really* kissed."

Michaela blushed again and then chuckled. She stood up on her tiptoes and kissed him lightly. "Lucky you remembered," she said warningly, as they left the room and headed downstairs.

By the time the Sully family finally arrived in town, the annual Colorado Springs Halloween party was in full swing. Last year’s party had been a subdued affair and, in fact, a number of townspeople had chosen not to attend, including Michaela as Sully, at the time, had been in hiding from the law. But this year it was obvious that people were out to make up lost ground.

Sully and Michaela were greeted by Dorothy, dressed all in black as a witch, and Robert E, as a dashing pirate. Dorothy reached up to take Katie from Michaela.

"Meow…. meow ….," squeaked the little girl as she went into Dorothy’s arms.

"You’re a mighty pretty black cat aint ya little Miss Katie …. I might haveta carry you around when the judgin’s goin’ on …. we might win a prize," chuckled Dorothy, who was greeted by a hug from the little girl, who had whiskers painted across her cheeks, little black ears and a long tail.

Dorothy turned and watched as Sully carefully lifted Michaela down and then passed a sparkly magic wand to her. "An what have we here ….. a fairy?" asked Dorothy.

"Well …. a fairy ….." Michaela glanced up into Sully’s amused eyes and then back to Dorothy. "A fairy god*mother*," she laughed.

Dorothy joined in their laughter and then turned to Sully. "An’ you Sully …. you’re lookin’ mighty fine …. but what character are ya supposed to be?"

"Well actually, with writin’ my report an’ workin’ on the clinic additions …. I didn’ have time to be thinkin’ of costumes …. So I figured that most people would say that seein’ me in a suit was fancy dress enough," he answered with a wry smile, to which Dorothy nodded in smiling agreement.

Brian, dressed in forest green as Robin Hood, came running up to them. "Ma … pa …. Do ya want me to take Katie for a little while ….. I can show her some of the games."

"Are you sure you don’t mind Brian? I want you to enjoy the party too," replied Michaela.

"Nah … I don’ mind …. just as long as I can bring her back when she starts grizzlin’," he said with a broad grin. He reached up to take his baby sister from Dorothy, placed her on the ground and grasped her hand. "Now Katie …. lets see what some of the boys an’ girls are doin’," he said as they wandered away, with a smiling Dorothy not far behind them.

Sully turned to Robert E. "Hey Robert E," he said. "That eye patch an’ kerchief suit ya …. don’ know about the earring though."

"The earring was Grace’s idea ….. I aint so keen on it either," Robert E chuckled.

"Speaking of Grace," said Michaela. "Where is she?"

The blacksmith turned and pointed to a table where Grace sat watching the merry-making. "She’s over there ….. feelin’ kinda tired … I don’ think we’ll be stayin’ too long …. these last weeks are takin’ it out of her."

"I’ll go over and sit with her," said Michaela at once. "Sully, you and Robert E go and enjoy yourselves …. relax ….. for a little while."

Michaela wandered across to sit beside Grace who was draped in colourful scarves and gaudy jewellery, including very large hooped earrings. "Tell my fortune Grace?" asked Michaela with a smile.

"Only wish I could Dr Mike," laughed Grace. "Fact is, this is the only costume I could think of that it didn’ matter I was as big as a house."

Michaela laughed sympathetically. "I know Grace," she said. "The last few weeks you feel like you’ve been pregnant forever and that its never going to end. How are you feeling anyway?"

"Oh I’m fine Dr Mike ….. just a little tired. Wasn’t sure whether to come tonight but then I always enjoy our Halloween parties."

Both women looked out over the crowded meadow as people joined in the games, or ate supper sitting on blankets on the ground. Some were even dancing to the sound of a harmonica.

Above the noise Michaela suddenly caught the sound of a child crying. The sound gradually grew louder until Brian bearing Katie emerged from amongst the throng. The little girl was sobbing and had her arms around Brian’s neck.

"What happened Brian?" asked Michaela, as she reached up for her daughter. "Oh sweetheart its alright," she crooned softly, rubbing the little girl’s back. Then she exclaimed, "Brian …. her hair’s all wet?"

Brian looked a little sheepish. "I know," he said disconsolately. "We were watchin’ kids bobbin’ for apples an’ Katie kept tellin’ me she wanted to do it. I tried walkin’ away but she started cryin’. I told her it was real hard to do …. but she wouldn’ listen …. so finally I let her have a go. I don’ think she realised she was gonna git wet, an’ then she got real angry when they wouldn’ let her use her hands." He shrugged his shoulders and looked on helplessly.

Observing his worried face, Michaela suddenly burst into laughter, followed immediately by Grace. "Its alright Brian …. that’s how little ones learn … she’ll forget all about it in a minute …. You go off and enjoy yourself."

Brian’s face lit up. "Thanks ma," he said gratefully, as he sped off back into the crowd.

"Apple mama ….," said a little voice over Michaela’s shoulder.

"I know sweetheart …. you just wanted an apple like the other kids …. Papa will get you one when he comes back, alright?"

A tired little girl nodded her head and a few minutes later was asleep in Michaela’s arms.

Shortly after, Robert E and Sully arrived to join the two women. They brought with them plates heaped high with delicious party food. "Thought you two pregnant ladies might be hungry," said Sully with a grin.

"Mmmm … I am," laughed Michaela, reaching across for a cookie.

For the couple of hours the two couples watched the goings on, laughing at some of the strange characters who had assembled, cheering when Colleen and Andrew as Romeo and Juliet won first prize for couples, and Horace won a prize for his Frankenstein’s monster.

By nine o’clock it was obvious that Grace was flagging. She couldn’t stop yawning and had shown no interest in the food on their table. Robert E glanced across at her with concern several times and finally said, "I think we better be goin’ …. this is way past Grace’s bedtime lately." He stood and unhooked her thick shawl from the back of her chair.

"You go home and get a good night’s sleep Grace …. We’ve got an appointment tomorrow haven’t we?" asked Michaela.

Grace turned and smiled at her friend, laying her hand over Michaela’s on the table. "That’s right," she said. "Ten o’ …….." Her hand suddenly grasped Michaela’s tightly. "Um ….. Dr Mike …… um ….. I think my water just broke ……" she said quietly and tearfully.

Michaela was at once the doctor. "Any pains?"

"No …" said Grace uncertainly. "Maybe a twinge …. an’ I feel kinda heavy …"

"Well ….. it seems you won’t be going home after all Grace … Robert E ….. I think we’ll head across to the clinic."

Robert E had been watching this exchange in horror. "Its time Dr Mike?" he said incredulously.

"Looks like it Robert E."

"But its two weeks early …… is that alright?"

"Certainly it is ….. babies rarely arrive on the day they’re expected," she answered reassuringly. She looked up at Sully, whose brow was also creased in concern. "Sully I think we’ll need our wagon … could you bring it round ….. and tell Andrew and Colleen about Grace …. Its going to be a long night."

Sully nodded and sped off.

"Oh …. and tell Brian what’s happening," called Michaela to his retreating back.

Within fifteen minutes Sully and Michaela had Grace and Robert E in the clinic. On the very short wagon ride across the meadow, Grace had, not unexpectedly, experienced her first full contraction and so labour was truly underway.

"Grace, I think the best thing for you is to tuck you up in one of the recovery room beds for a while. Delivery probably won’t be for several hours and the examination table is extremely uncomfortable if you’re going to spend a number of hours lying on it," explained Michaela. She turned to Robert E. "Perhaps you could go home and collect a couple of Grace’s nightgowns, nice full ones … so that she’ll be more comfortable.

The worried father nodded mutely and hurried out the door.

The door reopened only seconds later to admit Andrew and Colleen. "How far along is she Michaela?" asked Andrew matter-of-factly.

"Only just started full labour Andrew ….. its going to be a long night," smiled Michaela. "Do you think you and Sully could get Grace upstairs to one of the comfortable beds?"

"Yes of course." He turned to Sully. "Sully?"

Sully stepped forward, but before the two men could help Grace to her feet she grasped Michaela’s hand. "Dr Mike," she said tearfully. "How long is it gonna take?’

Michaela smiled. "Everyone’s different Grace. Could be just a few hours, could be many."

Grace then startled her by asking urgently, "What time is it?"

"Oh Grace, it doesn’t matter about the time," she placated.

But Grace repeated a little more agitatedly, "What time is it?"

Michaela glanced up at the clinic clock. "Just a little after nine," she replied.

"Dr Mike …. I aint havin’ my baby born on Halloween …. alright. *I aint*," insisted Grace. "Could that happen?"

"Well its highly unlikely," smiled Michaela.

"Good …. cos if it takes everythin’ I got ….. my baby aint havin’ its birthday on Halloween. Life’s hard enough without that …."

"Grace …. you’re the first woman I’ve ever treated who’s been determined to prolong her labour," laughed Michaela. "Most want it to be as short as possible." She rubbed her friend’s hand reassuringly. "Now Andrew and Sully will get you upstairs and we’ll make sure that you’re comfortable."

"Dunno … ‘bout three hours maybe," answered Hank in the same vein.

The two men were part of a small group of costumed townspeople slumped tiredly at a table in the meadow, after the break-up of the Halloween party. Around them a few good citizens were desultorily cleaning up some of the rubbish from the evening’s festivities.

"Kinda feel like maybe I should be over there," muttered Loren, as he took another swig of whisky.

"Don’ be crazy old man. ‘Sides we’ll know soon enough," scoffed Hank.

"Took days when Myra was havin’ Samantha," mused Horace. "I kinda liked havin’ other folks waitin’ there with me ….. ya need to know that …."

"Yeah …. but folks’d think it awful strange if we was all to be standin’ round outside the clinic waitin’ for …….," expostulated Jake.

"Well if it was one of our wives …. Robert E’d be there," reasoned Loren.

Hank chortled. "Loren … in case ya aint noticed …. None of us here has a wife …. cept Jake …. an’ Teresa’s doin’ just fine …," he retorted scornfully.

"Well I agree with Loren," said Horace loudly and decisively. "Robert E was there waitin’ with me when Samantha was bein’ born, an’ Grace helped deliver her ….. so I’m goin’ over to see if there’s anythin’ I can do." Horace stood and strode away across the meadow towards the clinic. Then he stopped and turned back towards the motley group. "An’ Hank," he called. "In case you’ve forgotten, Grace visited ya when you were in that coma ….. an’ Jake, she was the one who called the prayer meetin’ for the reverend that Christmas." Again he turned his back on the group and quickened his pace towards the clinic.

In the lamplight, Hank watched the telegraph operator stride purposefully across the dewy grass. His eyes narrowed. He resented being reminded of other people’s kindnesses.

"Still reckon other folks’d maybe think it wasn’ right …… Still, Robert E *is* a town councillor …." pondered Loren, obviously wavering.

"I bet that’s where Dorothy an’ the reverend are at the moment," added Jake thoughtfully.

"Tell ya what …… saloon’s just across the street …… I could sure do with another whisky …… maybe Robert E could too …… how about I open up for a while …. til we see what’s goin’ on …. drinks on the house," suggested Hank with a wry smile.

Delighted that a suitable solution had been found to their dilemma, the group rose with alacrity and started off across the meadow on the same path recently trodden by Horace.

Grace grasped Michaela’s hand firmly in her own as another contraction hit and then gradually eased. "They’re gettin’ stronger, Dr Mike," she said, between gritted teeth. "How much longer?"

"I’d say you’ve still got quite a while Grace ….. but you got your wish …. its just past midnight …. no Halloween birthday," Michaela replied with a chuckle.

Grace smiled determinedly and took a sip from the glass of water Michaela held to her lips.

"I’ll tell you something else Grace …." added Michaela, as an amusing thought struck her.

"What’s that Dr Mike?" asked Grace in puzzlement.

"Well I just realised that you’re probably the very first woman to have her baby delivered by a fairy godmother …!" exclaimed Michaela, with a grin. "Not to mention Romeo and Juliet!"

Grace chuckled along with her until another pain abruptly cut off her breath.

Andrew entered the room and asked, "How’s it going Michaela .. Grace …?"

"I think it’ll be a few hours yet Andrew," replied Michaela, trying in vain to stifle a yawn.

"Well Colleen and I have been talking, and we think it would be a good idea if you went and laid down for a few hours. Sully put Katie in one of the beds down the hall …. you could join her Michaela … and I’ll call you if things speed up in here," the young doctor suggested.

"I promised Grace I’d be by her side Andrew …. I’ll be fine," replied Michaela.

Smiling stoically, Grace quickly interjected, "No Dr Mike ….. you need to get some rest ….. I’d rather have you wide awake with me when the baby’s bein’ born …… your baby needs some sleep too."

"But I promised …"

"You’ll be with me …. Andrew’ll call ya …. You go rest now …. alright," insisted Grace.

"Well if you’re sure ….. I’ll only be down the hall …."

"Go on Dr Mike." Grace made a shooing gesture with her hand and then quickly grasped Andrew’s as another contraction hit.

As Michaela walked hesitantly out the door, her friend was softly moaning and then, as a distraction, demanded that Andrew tell her of his early life in Boston.

Robert E again rose from the bench outside the clinic and paced up and down like a caged lion.

"Robert E … ya gonna wear a hole in them floorboards …. An’ I’ll be askin’ ya to fix em," said Sully with amusement. "If ya keep up that pacin’ ya won’t have any energy left when the baby comes."

"Yeah, Robert E ….its probably gonna be a long while yet …. ya just gotta be patient …" recommended Horace, who’d only recently joined the others at the clinic.

"I knew I’d be no good at this damn waitin’," muttered Robert E, using a rare expletive and then glancing apologetically at Dorothy. He looked up at Horace as a thought occurred to him. "I don’ remember you bein’ too patient when Myra was the one in there," he said good naturedly. "Seem to remember Sully havin’ to stop ya from breakin’ the door down."

Horace reddened. "Yeah well …… it took so long …." He quickly looked across at Robert E. "Probably won’t take that long with Grace though …. Colleen said Myra’s labour was unusually long," he added reassuringly.

"I’m sure everything’s gonna be just fine Robert E …. we can say a prayer if you’d like," suggested the reverend.

The conversation on the porch was suddenly disturbed by several townsfolk noisily returning from the Halloween party in the meadow. Much to the amazement of Robert E and his friends, Hank flung the saloon doors open, lit the lamps and proceeded to pour drinks for those who settled themselves on the front porch of the Gold Nugget.

Loren looked over anxiously a few times before casually wandering across the street to the clinic. He walked up to the blacksmith. "Any news Robert E? Everythin’ goin’ alright?"

Robert E, surprised by the shopkeeper’s concern, answered candidly, "No news so far Loren …. probably be quite a while yet." He glanced across at Horace and added with a half smile, "I just gotta be patient."

The old man nodded his head sagely, reassuringly grasped Robert E’s shoulder for a moment, and then wandered back to take up his former position on the steps of the Gold Nugget.

"Dr Mike …… Dr Mike ……" Someone was calling to her. She sat up in bed disorientated. The soft voice was coming from the darkest corner of the recovery room, near the window. There was a sudden rush of cold air and a vague, shimmery shape appeared out of the darkness. As the figure neared the bed, it became more clearly defined.

"Abagail?" uttered Michaela incredulously.

"Dr Mike …."

"What do you want? …… And here at the clinic?" asked Michaela wonderingly.

Abagail seemed to focus on tiny Katie, peacefully sleeping curled up on her side next to her ma, her painted whiskers now smudged on her cheeks. "Yours?" she said softly. Her eyes glistened with unshed tears. "Yours and Sully’s." She appeared to be answering her own question. She took a further, tentative step forward, her head tilted to one side, her lips trembling.

Michaela glanced down at her darling Katie, and when she looked back tears were coursing unchecked down Abagail’s face.

The young woman turned her wide, teary eyes back onto Michaela. "You said that you’re a good doctor ….. that you would have done everything you could to save me and my baby ….," she murmured, as a sob caught in her throat. "Grace needs you now …. she’s ready ….. I thought I’d make sure you knew …… look after her Michaela …. and her baby ….." Her voice trailed off and then she was gone……..

Michaela woke and sat up, turning immediately to the corner nearest the window, which was now softly illuminated by a glimmer of dawn light. Her heart was pounding a little and she felt out of breath, but she knew that she was needed now ….. that Grace was nearing her time and that she had to be with her. She rose, straightened her apron, tucked a few errant wisps of hair back behind her ears, turned and gave Katie a light loving kiss on her cheek, and left to join Andrew in bringing another life into the world.

"Them folks at the Gold Nugget are sure makin’ a long night of it," remarked Robert E, as he paced up and down the clinic porch. It was now full daylight, his face was shadowed with new whiskers, and his pirate costume, with the sleeves pushed up and lacking the kerchief and earring, was almost unrecognisable.

"Nah … they aint ….," said Sully with a smile. "Most of ‘em aint had a drink for hours."

Robert E swung around to look at him in puzzlement and then turned back to stare across the street at the saloon and the various folk sitting nonchalantly on the porch and steps.

"They’re waitin’ just like us Robert E …. just didn’ want us ta know it," added Sully wisely.

Robert E shook his head in wonder and then exclaimed agitatedly, "What time is it? We aint heard anythin’ for hours …"

Horace pulled an old pocket watch out of the deep recesses of his baggy costume pants and flipped it open. "Nearly eight …..," he said, and then pondered, "Guess it’s a bit different … Grace bein’ upstairs an’ all …. that was the hardest part with Myra ….. ya could hear her …." He trailed off remembering.

"Well I wish we’d just hear *somethin’*," complained Robert E.

Grace grasped Colleen’s hand firmly, closed her eyes and took a deep breath. The pain was worse than she’d ever imagined. Everything hurt, her back, her stomach, her head, her chest, even the tops of her legs. It even hurt to breath. When would it be over?

"That’s it Grace …. you’re doin’ fine," whispered Colleen gently in her ear. "Just hold my hand and take some deep breaths …… that’s it …. won’t be long now …."

"Ooohhh …..Dr Mike ….," she moaned.

Michaela looked up and smiled at her friend. "Colleen’s right Grace …. won’t be long now ….. its almost time to push."

Another contraction struck, even longer and more fierce than the last, and Grace couldn’t help but let out a scream. "I gotta push *now* Dr Mike …… *now*!!"

Michaela and Andrew exchanged glances and then smiles.

"Then push Grace …. with all your might," said Andrew encouragingly.

Grace’s eyes opened wide, she took a deep, deep breath and then closed her eyes tight as she concentrated on just one thing – pushing the baby out. For the longest moment all that could be heard was Grace’s grunting as she pushed *hard*, but that changed to a moan as it seemed to be having little result.

"Now lay back for a minute … take some more deep breaths … that’s it," urged Michaela. "Now push again!"

Again Grace closed her eyes tight, tensed her entire body and pushed.

"That’s it ….. you’re doing well …. I can see the head Grace …. push hard," urged Michaela.

"I *am* pushin’ hard," muttered Grace, through clenched teeth.

"That’s it … the head’s delivered ….. now I need the hardest push you can give me ….. *now*!!"

Again, she tensed and pushed – hard - and all of a sudden Grace felt the baby slip free. She lay back against the pillows in relief, panting, trying to regain her breath. "Dr Mike," she whispered fearfully. For what seemed hours but was really only seconds, Michaela and Andrew worked together, their hands hidden by the sheets draped over Grace’s abdomen and legs. She watched anxiously as they concentrated on what they were doing.

Suddenly there was a loud, indignant wail and Michaela beamed at Grace. "You’ve got a beautiful, healthy baby boy Grace," she said softly, tears glistening in her eyes. She held up the squalling infant. His skin was shiny, his legs were moving up and down with his crying and his face was screwed up with the effort of facing the world. Michaela walked around to the side of the bed and gently placed him in Grace’s arms.

Grace looked in wonder at the face of her new, tiny, baby son. As she clutched him against her breast he quietened and looked up at her curiously. "Oh Dr Mike," she said softly and tearfully. "I can’t believe it …… he’s here …." Despite her wide smile, tears began to run silently down her cheeks. She looked up at Michaela for reassurance, doubting her own eyes. "He’s alright? He was early …"

Michaela reached out to gently brush the wet hair back off Grace’s brow and said softly, "He’s fine Grace …. nearly seven pounds I’d say." She turned to Andrew. "Wouldn’t you say Dr Cook?"

"I think that’s probably pretty close Dr Quinn," replied Andrew, also bearing a wide smile. "Now how ‘bout we finish up in here so we can bring in the new father to meet his son?"

Sully heard the clinic door open for the first time in many hours. His head swung up and he watched tensely as Michaela appeared in the doorway.

"Robert E," she called softly.

There was a hush and Robert E turned to face her as if in slow motion. He was holding his breath and his hands were clenched into fists at his sides.

Michaela smiled and said softly. "You have a son Robert E, a healthy baby boy."

Tears instantly sprang into the blacksmith’s eyes, followed by a wide smile. "A boy?" he whispered.

Michaela nodded.

"An’ Grace?"

"She’s tired but fine."

Suddenly a cheer rang out and all those who had patiently, and not so patiently, waited out the long night wanted to slap Robert E on the back or wring his hand. One by one, the townsfolk who had sat on the Gold Nugget steps throughout the night also joined those on the clinic porch, their faces beaming, eyes alight, thrilled for the man who had waited so long to become a father.

At the rear of the joyous group Sully held Michaela tenderly in his arms. She rested her cheek against his chest and wrapped her arms around his waist. He rested his chin on the top of her head. He couldn’t help but whisper tentatively, "Everything’s alright Michaela?"

"Mmmm …. everything’s wonderful Sully," she replied with a satisfied smile, giving him a loving squeeze. Then she straightened. "Now I’d better see if I can persuade this crowd to let Robert E go up and see his son."

As Robert E and Michaela entered the clinic, the bedraggled, unusual looking, though happy crowd began to slowly disperse. "Omigosh," exclaimed Horace as he glanced at his pocket watch. "Its almost nine. Train’s due an’ I aint even opened the office!!" He thrust the watch away and took off down the street at great speed, chased by the good natured laughter of his friends.