He Heard My Cry - Chapters 1-8

Quinn's Library by Jasmine L

 

When Sully develops a mysterious illness, the entire family comes to his aid;

not only for his physical wellbeing but his spiritual as well.

 

 

“I love the Lord, for he heard my voice; he heard my cry for mercy.”

Psalms 116:1

 

“The great art of life is sensation to feel that we exist, even in pain.”

 ~ Lord Byron

Chapter

     A change was coming over Colorado Springs; there was a chill in the air, a sense of comfort as the colors deepened. Layers of coats, shawls and gloves were being worn as the days were darkening earlier. Indeed, Autumn had arrived. The season brought busyness to the town; Loren with receiving merchandise to prepare his customers for the cold. Grace had constant demands for hot soup and Dr. Mike was taken over with patients experiencing symptoms of the change of weather. The season also put pressure on Sully’s shoulders, for he was met with the deadline of completing Preston’s homestead. The banker had his mind set on moving in before the first snowfall.

  Daniel, although occupied with his new job as sheriff, helped when he could with the building; but most of the work was up to Sully. The effects of the weather and extreme work load were weighing heavy on him. Something Preston couldn’t sympathize with when he rode out to critique the process.

 

  “Not as far along as we planned, are we, Sully?” He descended his horse.

 

Beads of perspiration rolled down Sully’s face as he hammered the floor boards.

 

“This ain’t buildin’ weather, Preston,” he breathed heavy.

 

“Even so,” he slipped off his leather gloves. “This is your week’s pay.”

 

Tossing the hammer to the ground, Sully accepted the envelope.

“This ain’t right,” he counted.

 

“I told you I’d be deducting wages each day you run late.”

 

“I ain’t been late,” Sully defended.

 

“Sully,” Preston cleared his throat. “I expanded your completion deadline to eight months; it has now been ten. You are late.”

 

Sully wiped the sweat from his face.

 

“Preston, you know how bad these storms have been,” he reasoned.

 

Lifting the hammer, Preston handed it to Sully.

 

“Then those walls better be sturdy.”

 

Sully could feel an anger brewing in him as the banker rode off. Sitting on the ground, he observed his progress. There wasn’t enough time and with Preston’s deductions, the hard work wasn't turning out to be worth much.

 

XXXXX

 

“Hey Daniel,” Brian ran up to his uncle.

 

“Hey there Brian,” he saddled his horse. “How was school today?

“Good,” he replied. “Got a new history project, gonna ask Ma for help. Hey, wanna go fishing with me?”

 

“Aw, I’d love to, Brian, except I was on my way to Preston’s. Gonna help your Pa.”

 

“All right. Will you two be home for supper?’

 

“Sure thing,” Daniel mounted his horse. “You tell your Ma, we’ll be home.”

 

As Daniel rode out of town, Preston was returning. He rode quickly passed the sheriff but not quick enough. Daniel caught eye of his uneasy expression and noted to ask Sully about it.

 

XXXXX

 

Upon arrival, Daniel immediately noticed the tension off of Sully.

“What’s got you on fire?” He approached.

 

Sully’s head shot up; he hadn’t heard him arrive.

 

“What?” He breathed heavy.

 

“You doin’ all right?” Daniel rolled up his sleeves.

 

“Yeah,” Sully frowned. “What are you doin’ here?”

 

“I came to give ya a hand, unless you reject good Christian conduct.”

 

Sully blew out a laugh.

 

“No,” he reached for his canteen.

“Saw Preston on my out here,” Daniel said.

 

Sully huffed.

 

“What’d he do?”

Reaching into the pocket of his buckskin coat, Sully handed him the envelope.

 

“Sully,” Daniel sighed.

 

“Selling my soul to the devil,” he sat down.

 

“That bad?” Daniel frowned.

 

“Just about.”

 

“Come on, I’ll help ya,” he said. “We’ll get this thing done together.”

 

There was no argument from Sully, to Daniel’s surprise; time was of the essence and he needed the help. Daniel began taking on a load of work and Sully rose to finish his part.

Sully swayed slightly and in seconds Daniel was at his side.

 

“Sully, you alright?”

 

Sully gripped tightly to his forearm to steady himself.

 

“Yeah, I just…got up too fast.”

 

“You’re working too hard,” he said. “Come here, sit down.”

 

Guiding Sully to a small stump, Daniel reached for his canteen. Pouring a small amount onto his hands, he moistened Sully’s neck.

 

“Drink some,” he handed over the canteen.

 

Accepting it, Sully consumed a generous amount. His hands trembled slightly as he brought it to his lips.

 

“I think you’ve had enough for today,” Daniel said.

 

“I’m all right,” Sully shook his head. “Just need-”

 

“To rest,” Daniel cut in.

 

Sully glanced at him.

 

“Daniel, I’m fine.”

 

The older man paused, deciding whether or not to believe him.

 

“All right, you sit here for a few more minutes though.”

 

After a moment, Sully went on with his work. Although, he did his best not to lead on, there was something different in his movements; something that deeply concerned Daniel.

XXXXX

“How was school today, Brian?” Michaela said, after saying grace at the dinner table.

 

“Good,” Brian nodded. “We started a new chapter in history, ‘bout ancient Egypt. I got an assignment to make a model of a pyramid.”

 

“How interesting,” Michaela said. “There’s a book in the library about ancient Egypt. Perhaps we can look at it.”

 

Brian nodded enthusiastically.

 

“Pa,” he shifted his attention. “How’s Mr. Lodge’s house coming?”

 

Everyone’s eyes turned to Sully when there was no response. Brian glanced at his mother in uncertainty.

 

“Sully,” She spoke up.

 

He sat at the head of the table, his eyes downward at his plate of untouched food.

 

Daniel, who was seated beside him, touched his arm.

 

“Sully.”

 

“Hmm?” He jerked slightly.

 

“You all right?’

 

He paused and pulled away.

 

“Yeah.”

 

“Something troubling you?” Michaela asked.

 

He shook his head.

 

“No, just…” he paused, once again looking down. “Will you excuse me?” He rose from his seat.

 

The family watched him closely as he stepped outside.

 

“Is Pa alright?” Brian looked towards his mother.

 

“Yes, Brian,” Michaela replied. “I’m sure he’s just tired from the day’s work.”

 

XXXXX

 

  Michaela decided that the time it took to finish dinner was enough time to leave Sully alone. Afterwards, she slipped on her shawl and stepped outside; the evening brought a chill in the air as the moon rose early.

 

Without a word, Michaela joined her husband on the steps and he too remained silent.

 

“Sully,” she uttered in a low voice.

 

“Hmm?” He kept his head down.

 

“Is every all right?”

 

“Yeah,” he looked at her.

The quickness of his response told her quite the opposite.

 

She sighed. “Something’s troubling you. Please tell me what it is.”

 

He sighed and wrung his hand together. He knew he could open up to her, but there was something…kept him from doing so.

 

“It’s nothing, Michaela. I’m just tired, that’s all,” he reached for her hand.

 

Michaela wasn’t sure if she completely believed him; but given the fact that he had been so occupied on Preston’s homestead, it would be understandable. However, she knew Sully too well. If he was tired, he’d be asleep, not skipping dinner and going outside by himself.

 

Chapter 2

 

It was sometime during the night when Michaela suddenly awoke. A harsh coughing was heard and she perceived her husband to be standing over a basin, regurgitating.

 

“Sully,” she pulled back the covers.

 

Drawing near, she noticed a significant amount of vomit in the basin. Sully was unable to communicate as the contents of his stomach poured out. A few minutes passed and he continued to be sick. Michaela stood by him, holding back his hair and stroking his back, comfortingly. After a while the vomiting ceased, but Sully had dry heaves.

 

“Just breathe,” Michaela soothed. “Try to relax.”

 

Finally, Sully was able to regulate his breathing.

 

“S-sorry,” he swallowed hard.

 

“Shh,” Michaela put a hand to his forehead. “You have a fever. Why don’t you lay down? I’ll brew you some tea.”

 

“I can do it.” Sully clasped her hand.

 

“It’s all right,” she cut in. “Let me take care of you.”

 

He nodded, wiping a hand over his face and relaxing his shoulders. As he crawled into bed, Michaela cleaned up and then went about preparing the tea.

 

Sully’s pain began to intensified while Michaela was downstairs; he wanted to call for her but didn’t want to wake the house. Lying there in the dark room, he thought back to when he first began to feel this pain. Why didn’t he tell Michaela?

Yet, now there was something, in the way his symptoms escalated in a matter of minutes, that caused him anxiety. He did his best to mask his pain when his wife returned.

 

“This will soothe your stomach and bring down your fever,” Michaela sat at his bedside with a steaming cup of tea.

Accepting it, Sully consumed a generous amount.

 

“Perhaps dinner didn’t agree with you,” Michaela reasoned. “Were you feeling ill before dinner?’

 

Sully made no response. He had that faraway look in his eyes, the one that always worried Michaela.

 

“Sully,” she reached for his hand. “What's wrong?”

 

He blinked as if awakening from a dream.

 

“Yeah, I’m just, just tired.”

 

“Here,” she took the mug from him. “Why don’t you lay down and get some sleep.”

 

Sully nodded and sunk deeper into the bed. As Michaela drew the covers over him, he reached for his hand. Bringing it to his lips, he tenderly kissed her.

 

“Thank you,” his eyes were tired, but full of love.

 

“Rest, my dear,” she stroked his feverish forehead.

 

Once Sully had fallen back to sleep, Michaela took her spot beside him in bed. For a while she watched him sleep, making sure he was alright. There was something inside her that was uneasy, she wasn’t quite sure what it was, but something urged her to say close to him, closer than she usually was.

 

XXXXX

 

  Sully’s fever had broken in the night. He reassured Michaela that he was feeling better, but she still wasn’t completely convinced. Although she knew she couldn’t keep Sully tied down. He was set on going to work and getting finished with Preston’s homestead.

 

 “Morning Pa,” Brian had entered the barn.

 

“Morning Brian,” Sully stood saddling his horse.

 

“Going to work?” The boy asked.

 

“In just a minute,” Sully said.

 

“Will you be home for supper?”

 

“Should be,” Sully replied. “Don’t see w-” he stopped suddenly when the reigns fell from his hand.

 

Brian watched his father, who looked to be confused.

 

“Pa?” He took a step closer. “Are you all right?”

 

Sully bent down to pick up the reigns, what seemed to be simple task, but they slipped from his grasp again.

 

Brian noticed Sully’s hands shaking slightly. Finally, Sully was able to hold onto the reigns, but he wasn’t sure if he could finish saddling his horse.

 

“Pa?” Brian was unsure. “Do you need help?”

 

Sully looked at Brian and shook his head.

 

“No, I’m all right, Brian,” he said. "You go on and get ready for school," Sully tried to make light of the situation.

 

Finishing saddling his horse, Sully rubbed his hands together. A strange sensation took them over, but he quickly brushed it off, telling himself he was just tired from all the work lately.

 

XXXXX

 

A while had passed and Sully still didn’t seem himself. Although he continually told Michaela he was fine, her intuition told her otherwise. This night, Michaela walked through the upstairs hall to bid her children goodnight, she paused when she heard their voices coming from Matthew’s room.

 

“Come in,” Matthew said as a knock was heard.

 

“I thought you children would be in bed by now,” Michaela opened the door.

 

“We were just about to,” Colleen replied, sitting on the edge of her brother’s bed.

 

“Is everything all right?” Michaela inquired.

 

The siblings looked at one another and then nodded.

 

“Yeah,” they replied.

 

Michaela thought otherwise, but she decided not to press them. They were getting older and she was sure they had things to discuss privately.

 

“All right,” she smiled and was about to exit the room.

 

“Ma,” Brian spoke up.

 

Michaela turned back; she noticed Matthew and Colleen looked at their brother surprised. Brian looked back at them, timidly.

 

“What’s going on?” Michaela asked.

 

“There’s uh…something we gotta tell ya,” Brian said.

 

“All right,” she prepared herself.

 

Matthew sat up straight.

“Why don’t you close the door?” He spoke.

 

Michaela was beginning to worry. She closed the door behind her and approached the end of the bed, waiting for her children to speak. Brian looked at Colleen and Colleen looked at Matthew.

Matthew cleared his throat.

 

“It’s about Sully,” he stated

 

Michaela wasn't expecting that.

 

“What about him?”

 

“Have you noticed anything…different about him?” Colleen said.

 

“Well,” Michaela thought. “I know he was ill a few days ago."

 

Colleen looked at younger brother again.

 

“Brian,” Michaela directed her attention to him.

 

“Well, it’s just…we were in the barn and…” he paused.

 

“Yes?” Michaela’s brow furrowed.

 

“Pa dropped his horses reigns he couldn’t pick ‘em up.”

 

“What do you mean?”

 

“Well, his hands were shaking,” Brian explained. “I was telling Matthew and Colleen and they said he hasn’t been himself lately.”

 

“That’s right,” Matthew chimed in. “He seems real tired.”

 

“So, I’ve noticed…” Michaela thought.

 

“I think it’s more than just tired from work,” he said.

 

“What do you mean?”

 

Matthew drew in a breath and paused, not wanting to scare his siblings or Michaela, but he knew they were already worried.

 

“I think he’s sick,” he said.

 

“Sick?” Michaela repeated.

 

“I could be wrong,” Matthew raised his hands. “But…we know Sully,” he glanced at his siblings. “And whatever it is…something’s wrong.”

 

Michaela had thought the same thing recently and hearing it from her children made her worry turn into fear.

 

“I didn’t wanna cause any trouble, Ma,” Brian said.

 

“You didn’t, Brian,” she lovingly touched his arm. “You did the right thing. I’m going to go talk with Sully.”

 

Before she opened the door, Brian spoke up again.

 

“Ma.”

 

“Yes?

 

“Tell Pa we love him,” his eyes expressed the concern they all felt.

 

Michaela nodded.

 

Descending the stairs, Michaela watched her husband standing at the fire place. The dying flames and a small lamp was the only illumination in the room. She approached with small, quiet steps; but not quiet enough for Sully, he had heard her for a since she came from the children’s room.

 

“Hey,” he turned to her with a smile. “Ready for bed?”

 

Drawing near, Michaela placed her hands on his strong arms.

 

“In a minute,” she brought her head to his chest.

 

Sully didn’t think anything of the contact other than to return the loving gestures. Running his hands up from her waist, he tucked his face in her neck. Michaela’s pulse quickened as he lips me her skin.

 

“You smell good,” his whispered in his ear.

 

Michaela wanted to melt at his contact, but ever so gently put a hand on his chest. She wanted to talk with him before things got too far.

 

“Sully,” she took a small step back.

 

“Did I hurt you?” He stroked her hair.

 

Ever since the loss of their child, intimacy had been different for the both of them. It wasn’t strange, but it wasn’t at comforting as they were accustomed to. Naturally, they were comfortable with one another, but there was an air of fear whenever they drew that close. Neither of them were ready to face endure another disappointment, so they settled for soft kisses and embraces, their feelings and words were enough, for now.

 

“Michaela,” Sully didn’t let her step too far.

 

“No,” she tucked her hair behind her ear. “You didn’t hurt me.”

 

Taking his hand from behind her neck, Michaela stroked his cracked and rough knuckles.

 

“I just…wanted to talk to you,” she said.

 

He looked at her with gentle eyes.

 

“Bout what?”

 

“Sully,” she breathed. “The children…think something’s wrong... with you?”

 

Sully’s brow knitted close together.

 

“What do you mean?”

 

“They told me you’ve been acting different and tired lately.”

Sully paused in consideration and then slightly shook his head.

 

“Nothing’s wrong with me, Michaela,” he reassured.

 

Michaela lowered her gaze and Sully knew that she didn’t believe him.

 

“Hey,” he touched her chin and their eyes met again. “I’m all right.”

 

“Brian told me what happened in the barn,” she said.

 

Again, he frowned in uncertainty.

 

“Your hands.”

Sully fell silent.

“Michaela,” he sighed.

 

“Sully, please,” she stroked his beard. “If something’s wrong, I can help you.”

 

Reaching for her hand, Sully turned his face and kissed her palm.

 

“Nothing’s wrong,” he said. “I promise.”

 

Her eyes still expressed her worry and uncertainty, but she knew he would continue to insist he was fine.

 

“Come on,” he took her hand. “Let’s go to bed.”

 

XXXXX

     Preston strongly disliked it when Daniel help Sully with his homestead, as he went on about how he wasn’t hiring another worker. However, Daniel didn’t care about the money, he cared about his brother and taking what bit of the load he could off his shoulders. Just before he rode out this afternoon, he was met by Michaela.

 

“Daniel,” she ran up to the sheriff’s office.

 

“Michaela,” he mounted his horse. “Something wrong?”

 

“Nothing,” she carried a basket. “Are you riding to Sully?

 

“Yeah,” he replied.

 

“This is some fried chicken from Grace, would you bring to him?” She requested. “He hasn’t been eating much lately.”

 

“Sure thing,” Daniel accepted the basket.

 

“There’s plenty in there for the two of you to share,” Michaela smiled.

 

After thanking him again, Michaela returned to the clinic and Daniel rode out of town. In the two years Daniel had been in Colorado Springs, he had grown especially close to Sully’s family. Especially now that they were family. For the first time in, well ever, Daniel had a home, not a just a physical one, but a home in his heart, the heart of his family.

 

The ride out the Preston’s was a bit of a long one, but the scenic view and fresh air, made it pleasant. It was a beautiful spot the banker choose, overseeing a river and the mountains in the distant. Daniel had to pause and take a moment to thank his Maker.

 

Coming up the building site, he didn’t notice his brother.

 

“Sully,” he called out.

 

Riding around Sully’s wagon full of supplies, Daniel’s heart dropped and he quickly sprung into action.

  

Chapter 3

     The sound of the wagon loudly pulling into town, drew the attention of the citizens.

 

“Daniel,” Matthew approached. “What’s wrong?”

 

“Get your ma,” he yelled.

 

Matthew rushed to the clinic as Daniel pulled the wagon in front; by now the town had gathered in front of the clinic with questions and concerns.

 

“Daniel, what’s wrong?” Michaela approached.

 

“It’s Sully,” he jumped down.

 

Coming around the wagon, Michaela’s gasped, spotting her husband lying unconscious.

 

“What happened?”

 

“Found him like this at Preston’s,” Daniel gathered his brother into his arms.

 

As Matthew waited outside, the town drew near with questions.

 

“He shouldn’t have gone back to work,” Michaela grabbed her stethoscope. “His fever was so high.”

 

“What fever?” Daniel stood at his brother’s side.

 

“He’s been ill,” was all she said.

 

Placing the bell of the stethoscope on his chest, she paused and listened. Moments of silenced passed and she poked and prodded on Sully’s body. Feeling his abdomen, she paused worriedly.

 

“What is it?” Daniel inquired.

 

“His liver,” she felt again. “It’s enlarged.”

 

She began to unbutton his shirt to get a better look and stopped suddenly. Noticing strange markings across Sully’s torso, chest and abdomen.

 

“Michaela,” Daniel noticed her expression.

 

She stared in shock momentarily and then suddenly went to the shelves, frantically flipped through the pages of her medical journals.

 

Daniel waited, knowing better than to question her in this moment; but when she looked up from the book and gazed upon her husband, Daniel could feel the anxiety weighing heavily on him.

 

“Oh God no,” she closed the book.

 

“What’s wrong?” Daniel stood straight.

 

“Oh Daniel, I hope to God I’m wrong.”

 

XXXXX

  A crowd had formed around the clinic, awaiting word from Michaela. Matthew remained outside also, but Daniel remained at his brother’s side. Halfway through her examination, Michaela felt Sully stir.

 

“Sully,” she spoke softly and his eyes began to flutter opened.

 

The surrounding of the clinic started to become clear. His wife and brother’s figures came into view and Sully lifted his head, which felt heavy, slowly.

 

“Michaela,” his throat was dry.

 

“I’m right here,” she clasped his hand.

 

“What’s going on?” He attempted to lean back on his elbows.

 

“Don’t try to move,” Michaela put a hand to his chest.

 

Daniel put a hand on his shoulder as well. Sully felt a sudden wave of dizziness and put a hand to his head.

 

Michaela rubbed his back as he willed it to pass.

 

“What happened?” He turned his attention to her once more.

She gave a quick, worried glance to Daniel.

 

“Sully,” she pressed her lips together.

 

Sully had seen this look many times before and he mentally prepared himself for whatever news

his wife was about to break.

 

“I believe the symptoms you’ve been experiencing lately are…due to a more serious condition,” she began.

 

“Alright,” his brow furrowed.

 

She sighed heavily.

 

“Your liver is enlarged and these marks on your arm,” she paused.

 

Sully glanced downward, he knew she realized he had been hiding the for some time.

 

“They are signs of a disease in which an abnormal amount of white blood cells produces, rapidly.”

 

Michaela was now holding his hand.

 

“Disease?” Sully could feel his pulse quicken, but somehow his surroundings slowed.

 

Michaela tried to remain as strong and professional as she could, but it was near to impossible.

 

This wasn’t a patient, it was Sully; but she had to go on.

 

“It’s called leukemia,” tears welled in her eyes. “It’s a type…of cancer in the blood.”

 

He didn’t seem shocked or frightened, saddened or hurt. There was just a distance in his eyes.

 

Michaela wished he would have reacted, but she knew in his own way, he was.

 

“I’m so sorry,” she drew closer.

 

Sully took in a slow and steady breath. He glanced at Daniel, who kept a supportive, quiet composure.

 

“You’re sure,” his voice was just a whisper.

 

The pain in her eyes was the her only response.

 

“Do the children know?” He looked away.

 

Michaela swallowed hard.

 

“Not yet,” she replied.

 

Sully nodded and sat up straight. A small murmur of voices was heard outside the door and

Daniel volunteered to go outside.

 

“Daniel,” Sully spoke up. “Please don’t say anything.”

 

Daniel dipped his head in understanding and stepped outside.

 

Michaela came around her husband and he held her hand.

“Brian’s still at school,” she said.

 

“Colleen and Andrew?” Sully began to slip on his shirt.

 

“He took her on a picnic,” she informed.

 

Lowering her head, she began to button his shirt. When her hands came near his chest, Sully held them close.

 

“I’ll talk to them,” he said.

Without a word, Sully pulled her into an embrace. She cried softly and he soothingly rocked her.

 

Taking in a deep breath, he inhaled the scent of her sweet hair and closed his eyes, relishing her aroma.

 

“Everything’s gonna be all right,” he whispered in her ear.

 

Sully wasn’t quite sure if he was convincing Michaela or himself, but they both needed some kind of reassurance and weren’t sure where to find it.

Chapter 4

 

     Michaela decided to close the clinic early that day. When she and Sully stepped outside, Matthew and Daniel were waiting for them.

 

“Sully,” Matthew stood.

 

Sully slipped on his buckskin jacket.

 

“You all right?” The younger man inquired.

 

“Yeah,” Sully put a hand on his shoulder.

 

“Matthew,” Michaela locked up the clinic. “Would you mind picking Brian up from school today?”

 

He blinked, slightly confused.

 

“Sure,” he replied. “You sure everything’s all right?”

 

Sully nodded.

 

“Yeah, just a little sick that’s all.”

 

Matthew knew better from the look in Sully’s, but he figured it would best not to press the matter at the moment.

 

Michaela put a hand on her husband’s back, allowing him to climb into the wagon first. Sully did so, his slow movements did not go unnoticed. Leaning back, Sully handed the reigns to Michaela; not an important gesture, but nonetheless caught her attention and Matthew’s as well. Whatever it was, Matthew knew it was serious.

 

“Sully,” Dorothy walked from the Gazette. “Are you alright?”

 

Sully glanced at his wife and nodded.

“I’m fine,” he replied quickly.

 

Dorothy looked to Michaela. The doctor glanced back, hoping the conversation wouldn’t go on.

“Well, do you need anything?” The journalist offered.

“No thank you,” he smiled slightly.

 

“See you tomorrow, Dorothy,” Michaela said.

 

With a small whip of the reigns, they drove down the road, followed by Daniel on his horse.

 

Dorothy stood there momentarily before she was approached by Jake.

 

“Ask me, something’s going on,” the mayor said.

 

“What do you mean?” Dorothy turned her head.

 

“Dr. Mike closing up in the middle of the day,” he said. “Not saying a word about Sully. She knows we all saw him.”

 

Dorothy was thinking the same thing, but she figured once her friend was ready, she’d tell her.

 

XXXXX

 

  Shouts of laughter were heard as the children poured from the school house. Brian followed his friends as they made plans for the following day. The boy stopped suddenly however when he saw his brother nearby.

 

“I gotta go,” he said. “See ya tomorrow. Matthew,” he ran forward.

 

“Hey little brother,” Matthew descended his horse.

 

“Where’s Sully?” Brian inquired. “We’re supposed to go fishing.”

 

Matthew took of his hat and ran his fingers along the brim.

 

“Brian, Sully’s not doing well,” he said.

 

The boy’s brow furrowed.

 

“What do you mean?”

 

“Well, he passed out working on Preston’s homestead. Dr. Mike and Daniel took him home,” Matthew informed.

 

“What’s wrong with him?”

 

“I ain’t sure,” he replied.

 

“Ma didn’t tell ya?”

 

Matthew shook his head.

 

“I’m sure he’s fine,” he put a hand of reassurance on his brother’s shoulder. “He’s probably just working too hard, you know Sully.”

 

Brian did know Sully; and he’d seen him work hard most of his life, but never physically effected by it.

 

“Come on, let’s go home,” Matthew tried to sound somewhat uplifting. “Dr. Mike will tell us what’s going on.”

 

XXXXX

 

When the brother’s arrived home, Colleen and Andrew were there as well, sitting on the porch, awaiting their arrival.

 

“Hey Brian, Matthew,” Colleen greeted them with an embrace.

 

“Ma and Pa here?” Brian asked.

 

Colleen nodded.

 

“Did they tell ya what’s going on?” Matthew asked.

 

“Not yet,” Andrew replied. “Michaela said, she wanted all of us together.”

 

At that moment, Michaela stepped onto the porch with Katie in her arms and Daniel close behind.

 

“Ma,” Brian spoke.

 

Closing the door behind, Michaela gave a worried glance to her brother-in-law, who gave a nod of encouragement.

 

“I’m sorry, I’ve made you all wait so long,” she said. “I just…wanted you all together. I know you’ve all noticed how Sully’s been…well, not himself lately.”

 

The silence and worried expression made it difficult for her to carry on.

 

“I’m afraid…he’s very ill.”

She paused when the door quietly opened behind her. Sully stepped out and Michaela was slightly relieved by his presence, she wasn’t sure how she’d tell the children.

 

“I was just…”

Sully nodded. Drawing near to Michaela, he put an arm around her.

“I’m sorry for worrying you all,” he said.

“What’s going on Pa?” Brian asked.

 

“Dr. Mike said you ill?” Matthew said.

 

Drawing in a deep breath, Sully nodded.

 

“Yeah,” his voice was lower than a

whisper. “I have…” he paused, looking toward his wife and daughter, hoping to gain some kind of strength. “Leukemia,” he revealed.

 

The fear and painful expression were a knife to his heart, but it was Brian’s words than pained him the most.

 

“What’s… leukemia?” The boy asked innocently.

 

Michaela tried to conceal her tears, turning her face towards Sully.

 

“It’s cancer,” Sully said.

 

  The world seemed to stop turning. A tear fell from the boy’s eyes and he did his best to hide it. Yet, Sully didn’t miss it. Without a word, he pulled his son into a warm embrace. It was a familiar embrace, one that Brian always found strength and comfort in. Somehow with this dreadful news, nothing and everything seemed to change.

 

“Everything’s gonna be all right,” Sully whispered.

 

  There were no more words needed. Their pain and fears were united; the only thing they could hold onto was each other. They had faced many hardships through the years; but nothing seemed to shake their world so harshly. This was a true test of their endurance, their love.

 

  Sully, however, wasn’t sure he was strong enough for such a fight, so he held each of his children a little longer.

Chapter 5

     Sully did his best to keep a light disposition at the dinner table, however nothing could keep the heaviness at bay. After they had finished dining, the children offered to clean up and Michaela was grateful; Sully had quietly snuck upstairs and she wanted to join him.

 

  A worried conversation struck among the siblings, as they shared their fears for their father with one another.

 

“How could this of happened?” Colleen stood at the sink. “Pa’s always been so healthy and strong.”

 

“Perhaps it’s hereditary,” her husband reasoned. “Do we know anything about Sully’s family history.”

 

The siblings looked at one another with blank expressions.

 

“No,” Colleen said.

 

“Maybe we could ask Daniel,” Brian thought. “He might know something.”

 

They nodded in agreement.

 

“Sully never had any prior illnesses?” Andrew inquired.

 

“Can’t even remember the last time he had a catarrh,” Matthew said. “He’s been hurt many times but illness,” he shook his head.

 

“Other than his migraines,” Colleen mentioned. “You know we’ve had typhus, influenzas, diphtheria, that outbreak at Ma’s clinic and Sully’s never caught a thing.”

 

“He must have a strong immune system,” Andrew said.

 

Colleen handed the washed dishes to her husband to dry.

 

“It’s more than that,” she said. “There’s something about Sully…his spirit, he’s…the strongest person I’ve ever known. He and ma have fought against so much, this almost doesn’t seem fair.”

 

XXXXX

 

  An inviting cool breeze blew in from the opened the window. Sully stood there staring out into the night sky. It was clear night, a vast number of stars shone in the distance; gazing upward, he recalled years ago when he would sleep under the stars. How he never dared to imagine his life to turn out this way, the good and bad. Somehow the good always outweighed the bad.

 

  He remembered when he first came to this land, from New York City. He’d never seen mountains so high, smelled air for fresh or saw the sun so brightly. It was in this place, Sully met life, love and the Lord and it was this place he wished to live his final moments. He knew he really shouldn’t ponder on such things, but when you’re in such a boat as this, you really can’t help it. Thinking back on the words of his mother, how she always told him it was the city that broke his father; he understood that better now.

 

  Sully hadn’t heard Michaela steal up behind him; but he wasn’t alarmed by her touch on his back.

 

“Sully,” her voice was gentle and soothing. “Are you all right?’

 

He momentarily remained silent and finally replied with a nod and blink of his eyes.

 

“It’s getting late,” she stroked his hair. “Why don’t we go to bed?”

 

“In a minute,” he reached for her hand. “Come here.”

 

Allowing her husband to guide her, Michaela stood before him with her back against his chest.

 

“It’s so beautiful,” she said.

 

Sully hummed in agreement in her ear.

 

The couple gazed out the window for a while. Each feeling one another’s pain and their own fears, strongly.

 

“Sully,” Michaela said, holding his arms that were around his waist.

 

“I know,” he inhaled the scent of her hair.

 

Michaela closed her eyes, relishing his embrace.

 

“I wish,” she couldn’t find the words.

 

Sully however, could always verbalize the expressions of her heart.

 

“We could just stop time…me too.”

 

Gently reaching for her shoulders, Sully turned her to face him; willingly, she did so.

 

“Then let’s do that,” he drew his hands up to her cheek.

 

As he cupped her face in his hands, Michaela saw nothing but him and all they shared together. His deep ocean eyes peered into hers and she saw once again the mystery and wonder that she fell in love with years ago.

 

“Right now,” his tone was precise and comforting. “It’s just you and me…nothing can come between us,” he brought her hand to his heart.

 

Michaela leaned forward and laid her head against his strong chest. Focusing on his heartbeat that felt like her very own.

 

She had so many questions, so many fears, so many what ifs. He had so much pain, restlessness and also what ifs; but in that moment, the fears stopped knocking at the door and left them alone. As long as they held onto one another, it left them alone and both were too afraid to let go, at least for tonight.

 

XXXXX

 

  After the house was asleep, Daniel found himself restless. The heaviness of his heart prevented him from sleeping. He went outside to clear his head; and Daniel being a man of faith knew nothing else to do but pray. He knew his brother always had a difficult time with his belief, but he hoped his prayers would bring him some kind of reassurance. Facing many hardships in his life, Daniel could not be more convinced of the Lord’s existence. Now more than ever he relied on him.

 

  He walked around the property for many hours that night. Pouring his heart out to his Father for his brother’s behalf. Overtaken by the emotion, Daniel was at a loss for words. His tears were his prayers now as he fell to his knees. When the emotion seized all that was left was the cool wind and the sounds of night.

 

“I have prayed to my spirits also,” a familiar voice spoke from behind him.

 

Rising to his feet, Daniel composed himself and turned.

 

“You know?” He already knew to answer.

 

Drawing near from the shadows, Cloud Dancing nodded his head.

 

“I stayed in the mountains many days, hoping they were wrong,” he said. “But one cannot fight against the will of the spirits.”

Daniel although respected his friend’s beliefs, could not share them and he found no comfort in his sayings. However, he realized there was something profound about Cloud Dancing and he silently prayed for his salvation.

 

“What do your spirits say?” Cloud Dancing wondered.

 

Daniel leaned on the fence and took in a deep breath.

 

“This ain’t gonna be just Sully’s fight,” he replied. “There’s something more here than just him getting sick.”

 

“I believe you are right,” Cloud Dancing said.

 

Daniel looked at him.

 

“It is more than just an illness,” the medicine man said.

 

“What is it?” Daniel asked.

 

“I am not sure.”

 

Daniel gazed upward at the night sky.

 

“My people believe that when a person is ill it can also be a sign of a spiritual sickness.”

 

“Could be,” Daniel said.

 

“What do your people believe?” Cloud Dancing inquired.

 

Daniel looked at him with a frown of uncertainty.

 

“My people?”

 

“Your beliefs?” Cloud Dancing clarified.

 

“For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen."

 

Cloud Dancing had never heard such a response. He knew Daniel in believed in what he called the white men’s God, but he had never seen those man so display such certainty or diligence; it made him have a definite respect for Daniel.

 

“We have much to pray for, my brother,” Cloud Dancing extended a hand.

 

Daniel nodded and accepted.

XXXXX

 

Sometime during the night, Michaela turned over and felt moisture beneath her arm. Becoming more aware, she sat up and reached for her husband; she perceived Sully to be perspiring profusely. 

 

“Sully,” she brushed the hair from his face.

Sully, breathing heavily turned to her.

 

“Mi…Michaela,” his voice was hoarse.

 

“Oh, you’re soaked,” she drew back the cover.

 

Rising from the bed, she filled a basin with cool water and fetched a cloth. Returned to him, she put on a lamp. She unbuttoned his night shirt and began working to cool him off.

 

“Michaela,” he reached for her hand.

 

“I’m here,” she reassured.

 

“My head…” he shut his eyes.

 

“Shh,” she laid a cloth over his forehead. “I’ll brew you some tea for your headache,” she said.

 

“No,” he squeezed her hand, tightly. “Don’t…leave me.”

 

“I won’t leave you,” she stroked his forehead. “But I need to go downstairs to make the tea. It will help you, Sully, please.”

 

Exhaling loudly, Sully put his head back on the pillow and nodded.

 

“Hurry back,” he pleaded.

 

“I will,” she kissed his cheek and departed.

 

Michaela prepared the tea as fast as she could, not wanting Sully to try to move about.

Upstairs, Sully’s pain had significantly increased. He was reminded of his state just a few days prior, before his diagnosis, when he was ill. How he never imagined how things could escalate so quickly. However, his pain stopped him from pondering and he sank into the bed.

 

Feeling a strange sensation run down his beard, Sully slowly sat up and wiped his face. At that moment, Michaela returned and grew concerned.

 

“Sully,” she came around the bed.

 

“Michaela,” he became alarmed and showed her his hand.

 

A significant amount of blood marked is hand and dripped from his nostrils.

 

“It’s all right,” she grabbed a cloth. “Sit up.”

 

Sitting back, Sully allowed his wife to tend to him. Michaela held his nose close with a wet cloth.

 

“Breathe through your mouth,” she directed.

He did so and glanced at her.

 

“I’m sorry,” his voice was slightly muffled.

“Shh,” she stroked his hair. “There’s nothing to apologize for.”

 

Sully sighed with a nod, still feeling bad but he knew he needed her help.

 

After a few minutes, Michaela removed the cloth and instructed him to blow his nose. The cloth came clean and she sighed in relief.

 

“You may lay down in a few moments,” she said. “Does your head still hurt?’

“Yeah,” he rubbed his temples.

 

Michaela reached for the steaming cup of tea.

 

“Here you are.”

 

After consuming a significant amount of the healing liquid, Sully laid back down. Still holding his wife’s hand, he willed for sleep to take over. Coming behind him, Michaela spooned herself against him rubbed soothing circles on his back.

 

“Michaela,” he suddenly reached for her.

 

“I’m here,” she whispered in his ear.

 

“H-hold m…me.”

 

She held him tighter and gently rocked him until he drifted off. It was while before Michaela was able to fall asleep herself, keeping an eye on Sully, making sure he was all right.

Chapter 6

 

     It was early afternoon when Preston came riding into town, upset and irritated. He was on his way to the clinic when he saw Dorothy departing from the establishment.

 

“Dorothy,” he descended his horse.

“Preston,” Dorothy dipped her head.

 

“Is Michaela in?” He inquired.

 

“Um, no,” she replied. “I was just looking for her myself. Colleen and Andrew are in if you need something.”

Preston huffed.

 

“What I need to dependable employees,” he huffed.

 

“What do you mean?” She inquired.

 

“What I mean, Dorothy is that if Sully isn’t going to finish my home, he could have given me the common courtesy of a notice.”

 

Dorothy pulled her shawl tighter around her shoulders.

 

“You don’t know?” She realized.

 

“Know what?

 

“Preston, Sully was found passed out at your homestead three days ago. He and Michaela haven’t been in town since.”

 

The banker blinked in uncertainty.

 

“What happened?” He fidgeted.

 

“Haven’t heard anything.”

 

Dorothy sighed and turned her back, walking to the general store.

 

“Dorothy,” Loren smiled at her appearance.

 

“Loren, I need to order some things for the press,” she handed him a list.

 

“Sure thing,” he took it. “You uh, hear from Dr. Mike and Sully yet?”

 

She shook her head.

 

“Loren, I’m worried about them,” she said. “It’s not like them not to come to town for three days.”

Loren nodded in agreement.

 

“Not after a scene like that,” he pressed his lips together. “Maybe you should ride out to their homestead.”

 

“Well, Loren, I don’t want to invade their privacy,” she turned her at.

 

She noticed Cloud Dancing walking towards the clinic and she politely excused herself from her brother-in-law.

 

“Cloud Dancing,” she greeted.

 

“Aho,” the Cheyenne approached.

 

“What brings you into town?” She inquired.

 

“I am bringing medicine for Dr. Mike,” he replied.

 

“Did you hear about Sully?” She asked.

 

He had and he knew his brother wanted to keep things private, but his silence gave her the answer; so, he nodded.

 

“How’s he doing?” Dorothy went on.

 

“He is fine,” Cloud Dancing replied. “Excuse me, Dorothy,” he smiled and entered the clinic.

 

Dorothy stood there momentarily. She didn’t want to be nosey or over step her bounds, but she knew something was up. So, she made up her mind to visit the Sully homestead, if her friends didn’t come into town.

 

XXXXX

 

  After his brief encounter with Dorothy, Cloud Dancing made his way to the homestead. Upon arrival, he remained a way off, taking in the scene and considering how he would approach his brother. Sully sat on the front porch, with Katie in his arms. The baby slept peacefully as her father gentle rocked her.

 

“Aho,” the medicine man descended his horse.

 

Sully smiled at his presence.

 

“Cloud Dancing,” he remained seated, not wanting to disturb his daughter.

 

“She feels safe,” Cloud Dancing motioned to the young one.

 

Sully stroked her blonde whisps of hair. He knew why his brother had come, but he didn’t want to be the once to breach the subject.

 

“And you?” Cloud Dancing said.

 

“What?” Sully looked at him.

 

“What do you feel?”

 

Again, Sully gazed at his baby. He felt content in this moment, but buried under that satisfaction were waves of emotions, that he was not prepared to deal with.

 

“I’m all right,” he whispered.

 

“The town asks about you,” Cloud Dancing took a seat beside him.

 

Sully lowered his head.

 

“Bound to find out,” he said.

 

“Would you rather they not?” The older man wondered.

 

“Maybe…for now.”

 

“What does Dr. Mike say?”

 

“I gotta take it easy,” he replied. “Rest, medicine…”

 

A moment of silence passed between them, until Sully spoke in a low voice.

 

“Cloud Dancing.”

 

The medicine man leaned close.

 

“Why did this happen?” Sully kept his gaze downward.

 

Taking in a deep breath, Cloud Dancing paused; he often asked the same question.

 

“The spirits do not always tell why such things happen,” he replied. “But they will provide an answer, a way if you are willing?”

 

Sully sighed.

 

“Was a time when that made sense to me,” he said. “But now…I…” he fell silent.

 

“You are afraid,” Cloud Dancing said.

 

Katie shifted in her father’s arms and without a word, he drew her nearer.

 

“Never felt this kind of fear,” Sully whispered.

 

“It is not only physical,” Cloud Dancing reasoned.

 

Sully looked at him.

“I don’t know about the spiritual,” he said.

 

Cloud Dancing didn’t understand his meaning. Sully was always a deeper than the surface kind of man. He understood the intangible meaning of things and people. Yet, now Cloud Dancing saw a void in his spirit, one that he wasn’t sure how to help.

 

XXXXXX

 

After dinner, Sully had gone upstairs to sleep, he was growing more tired these days. It was night now and Michaela descended the stairs to check the house before turning in herself. Upon descension, she noticed a faint illumination coming from the kitchen.

“Brian,” she drew near.

 

“Oh,” the boy didn’t hear her approach. “Hey, Ma.”

 

“What are you still doing up?” She inquired.

 

“I…couldn’t sleep,” Brian spoke slow and had a faraway look in his eyes.

 

Sensing her son’s worried disposition, Michaela went about preparing some warm milk. Brian was aware of his mother’s actions, but remained silent. After a few minutes, she poured two mugs and joined her son.

 

“You seem to have a lot on your mind,” Michaela spoke in a gentle tone.

 

A tone that Brian was familiar with and comforted by. Although, she wasn’t his birth mother, Brian was young enough when Dr. Mike adopted them that the majority of his fondest memories were accompanied by that voice. Hers and Sullys. Thinking back on all the shared conversations and memories, he was eased by her presence, but somehow found it difficult to breech the subject.

 

“Do you want to talk about it?” She inquired.

 

Brian took a sip of the warm milk and shrugged, slightly.

 

“I don’t know,” he said.

 

“I understand,” she said.

 

Brian looked at her, his brows furrowed.

 

“You do?”

 

Michaela nodded and reached for his hand.

 

“And so will Sully,” she stroked his knuckles.

 

Brian lowered his head and gathered his thoughts for a moment.

 

“Ma,” his voice was lower than a whisper.

 

“Yes?”

 

“I’m scared,” their eyes met.

 

Michaela took in a breath, attempting to control the heavy emotions she felt.

 

“I am too, sweetheart.”

 

“Not just of what’s happening but…” he fell silent.

 

Michaela gave him a moment, yet he did not continue.

 

“But what, Brian?” She pressed, gently.

 

The boy pressed his lips together.

 

“I don’t wanna…hurt you,” he sniffed.

 

Michaela moved closer to him and put her arm around his shoulder.

 

“Oh, Brian, you’re not going to hurt me. I understand, but when it’s when we don’t share our pain that we hurt one another.”

 

“But you’re already so worried about Pa,” Brian said.

 

“You’re right,” she nodded. “I’m very worried about your Pa; but my pain isn’t greater than yours, Brian. We all love Sully and we’re all hurting for him. And if we can express our pain and go through it together, that’s how we heal.”

 

“But…what if…” Brian’s lips quivered with emotion. “What if he doesn’t heal?”

 

Tears welled in Michaela’s and before she could find any words of encouragement, Brian went expressing his fears.

 

“Ma, is…what if…” the boy paused in fear.

 

“It’s going to be all right,” Michaela read the look in his eyes.

 

Brian swallowed hard.

 

“Is he…” he couldn’t find the words.

 

Michaela’s throat tightened with emotion

 

“I won’t let anything happen to him,” she pulled him close. “I promise.”

 

Brian let a few tears escape as he held onto his mother. They remained in a comforting embrace for quite a while, unaware of Sully’s presence on the stairs. He was trying so hard, for his children and wife, but he could feel the weakness caving in on him, the pain increasing and a heaviness weighing on him as he returned to his bed with feeble steps.

Chapter 7

 

    

     The following morning Cloud Dancing found Michaela in the back of the house, tending to the garden. They had spoken briefly about the circumstances, but nothing significant. Cloud Dancing wanted to change that.

 

“Aho,” he approached.

 

“Cloud Dancing,” Michaela paused from her work.

 

“You’ve done well,” he motioned at the garden.

 

Michaela had grown a variety and vegetables and herbs, mostly for medicinal purposes.

 

“I had a good teacher,” she smiled.

 

As did he.

 

“I’ve brought you something,” he handed her his medicine bag.

 

Accepting it, Michaela peeked inside.

 

“Food?” She noticed.

 

“It is for Sully. These fruits and vegetables have been used by my people for years. They can help with his condition.”

 

“Thank you, Cloud Dancing,” Michaela forced a smile.

 

The medicine man could see the pain in her expression and he drew nearer.

 

“Oh, Cloud Dancing,” she lowered her head. “I’m so afraid,” tears welled in her eyes. “Sully’s always been so strong, I just…I can’t imagine if…” she couldn’t bring herself to go on.

 

“It is that strength he needs from us,” Cloud Dancing said. “He is also afraid.”

 

“And the children,” she worried. “They don’t show it, but I know they’re hurting. I just can’t understand why this is happening.”

 

Before Cloud Dancing could attempt to console her, Brian’s voice was heard from the back door.

 

“Ma!”

“Brian,” she turned.

 

“It’s Pa…”

 

Rushing inside, Michaela’s heart dropped at the sight of her husband, motionless on the floor.

 

“Sully! Brian, get me my bag.”

 

Hurrying to do so, the boy was back in a minute.

 

“Cloud Dancing, help me lay him on the sofa.”

 

Scooping his brother into his arms, the medicine man gently laid him down. He and Brian were silent as Michaela poured over him.

 

“His blood pressure is dropping,” she said.

 

After a moment, she prepared an injection and reached for Sully’s arm; his skin had a discolored appearance, resembling bruises. Reaching into her medical bag, Michaela pulled out an injection and inserted it into Sully’s arm.

 

A few moments went by until Sully slowly began to come to.

 

“M…Michaela,” he was disoriented.

 

“I’m right here,” she held his hand.

 

His complexion was cold and clammy to the touch.

 

“Wha…what’s going on?” His eyes were heavy.

 

“Shh, just rest now,” Michaela knew his wasn’t able to comprehend much in this current state.

 

“I…” he looked at her with glassy eyes.

 

Resting his head back, Sully was unable to fight the lethargy overtaking his body. Michaela monitored his condition as he fell back asleep.

 

“Is he gonna be all right?” Brian inquired.

 

“Yes,” she sighed. “He just need rest. I’ll sit here a while with him.”

 

The tone of her voice revealed she was upset. Cloud Dancing put a hand on the boy’s shoulder, implying that they step away.

 

The medicine man took Brian into the kitchen and began to instruct him in brewing a tea for Sully.

 

“Cloud Dancing,” Brian spoke in a low voice, not wanting his mother to overhear.

 

The Cheyenne turned his attention to him.

 

“Do you think my Pa’s gonna be all right?”

 

Cloud Dancing wasn’t sure if he should answer truthfully. He didn’t want to make the boy afraid, but he also knew that Brian wasn’t a boy more and he deserved to be aware of the circumstances. However, he was not the parent and did not wish to upset Michaela and Sully.

 

“Your father has a strong spirit,” he said.

 

Brian nodded and glanced behind at his parents.

 

XXXXX

 

A dull pain behind his eyes stirred him to consciousness. Before he was fully aware of his surroundings, he found himself reaching to his side.’

 

“Sully,” Michaela clasped his hand.

 

“Hmm?” Sully’s eyes fluttered opened.

 

Taking in his whereabouts, Sully was confused.

 

“Wha…what’s going on?” His voice was dry.

 

Michaela sighed and glanced at Cloud Dancing, as did Sully.

 

“Sully,” Michaela sighed. “You fainted.”

He still seemed disoriented.

 

“Hurts,” he slowly raised his head.

 

His slightest pain was a knife in Michaela’s heart.

 

“Where, sweetheart?”

 

Without a word, he exhaled, holding his sternum. She put a hand atop of his.

 

“Here,” she reached to the side. “Cloud Dancing brewed you this tea. It will help with the pain.”

 

Holding the cup to his lips, Michaela noticed that Sully didn’t attempt to take it from her. His hands were too weak.

 

“I’m sorry,” he said after a few swallows.

 

“Shh, just rest.”

 

At the moment, Brian came through the front door.

 

“Ma,” he said. “Ms. Dorothy’s outside.”

Michaela looked at Sully. Sully sighed and nodded, implying that it was all right she leave him.

 

As she departed, Brian and Cloud Dancing remained at his side.

 

“Dorothy,” Michaela closed the door behind her.

“Hello Michaela,” she stood near her horse. “I hope you don’t mind coming out to see ya.”

 

“Oh, not at all,” the doctor descended the stairs. “What can I do for you?”

 

“Well, Michaela, I just wanted to stop by and see how Sully’s doing?”

 

Michaela could feel his chest tighten. Dorothy noticed a reaction in her friend.

 

“Michaela, what is it?”

 

“Oh, nothing, Sully’s doing fine,” she replied, quickly.

 

Too quick for Dorothy to believe her.

 

“Michaela? Is everything all right with Sully?”

 

Michaela ran her hands together.

 

“Yes, he’s just…come down with a slight catarrh.”

Michaela hadn’t planned on lying, but she knew Sully didn’t want to tell anyone about his condition at the moment.

 

The sound of a horse was heard and Daniel could be seen riding up toward the homestead.

 

“Hello, Ms. Dorothy, Michaela.”

 

“Daniel,” the older woman greeted.

 

“Everything all right?” He descended his horse.

 

“Yes, Dorothy was just visiting.”

Daniel smiled and tied his horse to the porch.

 

“Well, Dorothy I have to be going now, thank you for visiting.”

 

Michaela smiled.

 

“All right,” Dorothy smiled back.

 

She could tell Michaela either couldn’t or didn’t want to talk right now. Ascending her horse, Dorothy rode and Michaela and Daniel went up the stairs.

 

“You told her?” Daniel turned to her.

 

“No,” Michaela said. “I don’t think Sully wants anyone to know just yet.”

 

“What did you say?”

 

“Oh, I just told her Sully has a catarrh.”

 

“You think she’ll believe that,” Daniel folded his arms.

 

Michaela shrugged. Daniel knew she had too much to worry about without the town’s involvement.

 

“How’s Sully?”

 

“He passed out earlier,” she sighed. “He had just woken up when Dorothy arrived.”

 

“Come on,” Daniel reached for the door.

 

Sully had fallen asleep, but Michaela still remained at his side.

 

XXXXX

 

“Passing out from a simple catarrh?” Jake lit a cigar. “That don’t sound right.”

“Especially for Sully,” Grace put her basket on the counter top.

 

“If you ask me, they’re hiding something,” Loren said.

 

“Loren,” Dorothy chastised. “They’re entitled to their privacy.”

 

“Loren’s right,” Jake said. “A scene like that don’t happen and you blow it off with a catarrh. Ask me, something’s wrong.”

 

Dorothy knew it wasn’t her business, but she agreed with Jake; and with the whole town a witness, she felt they had the right to know.

 

“Say Grace, maybe you could go over there, give ‘em some food or something.”

 

“And do your dirty work?” Grace raised a brow.

 

“Dirty work? Who’s talking about dirty work? I’m talking about being a neighbor.”

 

“Since when do you know anything about being a neighbor,” Grace took her basket and left the store.

 

Loren pressed his lips together and turned his attention to his order book.

 

XXXXX

 

Sully rested on the sofa for the day. The children kept him company, even eating dinner in the living room, for he felt too ill to eat much. He felt bad, having them care for him. He continually told them he was fine, even though he didn’t feel fine and said he didn’t need help, yet he did.

 

It was too much for him to ask for help, so he decided to turn in early. However, even that couldn’t be done with ease. Daniel noticed, his brother’s shakiness upon rising. Without a word, he drew to side and aided him in climbing the stairs.

 

Reaching the top, he led him to his bedroom.

 

“Thanks,” Sully lowered his arm from around his shoulder.

 

“No thanks needed,” Daniel helped him sit down. “How you feel?”

 

“Tired,” Sully breathed heavily.

 

“You need some rest,” Daniel said.

 

“I’ve been resting all day,” Sully sighed.

 

He was already becoming frustrated with his illness. Daniel sat beside him and touched his hand.

 

“You need to take your time, Sully,” he said.

 

Lowering his head, Sully gave a slight nod.

 

“Daniel,” his voice was lower than a whisper.

 

“Yeah?”

 

He remained silent for a moment.

 

“It’s getting worse,” he said.

 

“I know,” he rubbed Sully’s back.

 

Sully didn’t know what to say. He looked at his brother with an expression that broke Daniel’s heart. Pulling him into an embrace, he whispered quietly.

 

“You gotta fight hard, brother,” he said.

 

Pulling back, Daniel held his brother at arm’s length.

 

“I wanna tell you what I told Cloud Dancing.”

 

Sully nodded.

 

“For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory… beyond all comparison, as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen.”

 

Sully frowned.

 

“That from the Bible?’

Daniel nodded.

 

“You’re looking at this illness with through the physical, with your heart. That’s not how God sees it. He allowed this for a reason.”

 

Sully stared out and Daniel wasn’t sure if he understood him.

 

“You believe in God, Sully?”

 

He shrugged slightly.

“I don’t know,” he said. “I never really…believed,” he emphasized. “Ya know?”

 

Daniel nodded.

 

“Why did God do this?” Sully asked.

 

Daniel shook his head.

 

“He didn’t do this, Sully. Sure, He allowed it to happen. There’s no sickness in God, no hurt. That’s in the world, but He’ll allow us to endure pain for His glory. If not…” He paused.

 

“What?”

 

“Your pain won’t ever end,” Daniel said. “I don’t just mean your cancer.”

Sully fell silent.

 

“I don’t know what to do,” he said.

 

Daniel touched his cheek.

 

“Just think about it. Open your heart, He’ll help you.”

Sully nodded and Daniel rose from the bed.

 

“And so will I,” he kissed his brother’s forehead. “Get some sleep.”

 

“Thanks,” Sully smiled.

 

Daniel departed, leaving Sully alone with his thoughts.

 

It wasn’t long before Michaela came in.

 

“Katie’s asleep,” she said.

 

“Good,” Sully laid in bed.

 

“How are you feeling?” She sat at his side.

 

“I’m all right,” he kept his eyes forward.

 

“Sully, what’s wrong?”

 

“Nothing,” he glanced. “I was just thinking about something Daniel said to me.”

 

“What?”

 

He shook his head.

 

“It’s nothing,” he replied. “Come on, let’s get some sleep.”

 

Michaela nodded and stood to put on her night gown.

 

“Sully,” she said.

 

“Hmm?”

“Will you be all right if I go into town tomorrow?”

 

“Sure,” he thought. “I guess you gotta go back to work, right?”

 

“Well, that and…” she paused.

 

“What?”

 

“Well, someone has to tell Preston you won’t be going back to work.”

 

Sully hadn’t thought about that. Michaela pulled the sheets back and laid beside him.

 

“Oh yeah,” he said.

 

“But don’t worry, I won’t tell him or anyone about your illness.”

 

“I just…don’t know if I can tell everyone and…” he paused.

 

“I understand, honey,” Michaela reached for his hand. “You don’t have to do anything you’re not ready for.”

 

“I just…need to take things slow,” he reasoned.

 

Michaela stroked his arm.

 

“You take all the time you need. Just focus on getting better.”

 

Again, Sully’s mind went back to his conversation with Daniel; and Michaela saw that far off look in his eyes.

 

“Sully,” she stroked his knuckles. “Something troubling you?"

“No,” he blinked. “I’m just…tired, that’s all.”

 

“Here,” she turned and lowered the light. “Lay down and get some rest.”

 

“I’d rather do this…”

 

Michaela felt his arms slip in beneath her and he scooped her onto his chest. She immediately felt a wave a calmness and ease at his embrace.

 

“I don’t want to cause you any pain,” she lifted her head.

 

Sully looked at her. The moon illuminating their room just enough to see each other’s eyes.

 

“Your touch…the most healing thing I have.”

Michaela reached forward; their lips met for many minutes. Until finally, she laid her head on his chest; she drifted off to the rhythmic beating of his heart and he to the sweet scent of her hair.