Return Of Buck: Serendipity's Sacrifices, #1

By Linda L. Lattimer

Serendipity Beasley faces a challenge when her Pa leaves home. After her brother is gunned down, will she be able to keep the family together?

• Language: English
• Publisher: Wings ePress, Inc.
• Release date: Aug 23, 2023
• ISBN: 9781597053846

Book preview

Dedication

To my grandmother and grandfather, Beasley, and to all the Beasley sisters and brothers, (my precious aunts and uncles) who instilled great morals, and kindness, and passed it on to their children. To those who have gone but still remain in our hearts, Uncle Woodrow Beasley, Uncle Woodrow Hall, Aunt Eloise Beasley and Aunt Judy Beasley.

To Bob, who watches from above. And always to the Good Lord.

One

The short, gray-headed woman held the small stepladder as her husband reached to the top shelf. Taking a lace handkerchief she quickly wiped a bead of sweat from her forehead. July had always been warm in Franklin, Texas. Today was no exception. She would much rather be sitting in a rocker on the front porch with a fan and some cold lemonade, but they had a store to run. Relaxation would have to come later.

Mr. Cooper, don’t you be falling off that ladder. You want me to climb up there and get those canned peaches?

The man turned his hazel eyes down to her gray ones. Now Miss Cooper, I don’t think you can reach that high, even on this ladder.

You’re only afraid that my portly body won’t hold that ladder. I’d be glad to give you some of this poundage if I could. Ole man you sure could use some of it on those skinny bones of yours.

Mr. Cooper grabbed three cans of peaches and handed them to his wife. He looked over to a young girl examining bolts of cloth. Marjorie Beasley shifted her bright blue eyes from the fabric flashing a smile his way.

The Coopers always enjoyed seeing the Beasley girls when they traveled into town. Marjorie was always the best dressed. She searched the latest catalogues and styled her clothes to match, as if she had ordered them straight from Paris. Sarah Beasley, the girls’ mother had been the same way when she was alive. She always wanted to look presentable whenever she was meeting the public. The girls had taken after their mother with their fine porcelain figure, yet Marjorie and her stylish fashions stood out more.

The youngest of the litter, Louise, was sort of shy. She had long straight auburn hair and lovely green eyes that lit up like dazzling jewels. She was precious in the emerald dress she wore this morning. She stood near the front door keeping a watch on the wagon and horses.

Next was Sandra, more of a tomboy and always mischievous, wishing to be into everything, trying to be witty when the moment struck her fancy. She always dressed in breeches and shirtwaist and wore her long dark hair braided or pulled back in a ponytail. A Stetson hat usually draped her head and that made it hard to detect her bright blue eyes. She fumbled with some hats trying to see which one complemented her features the best. She gazed longingly at the six-guns and holsters nearby. She couldn’t allow Serendipity to know her mind thought only of guns.

Sandra was the second oldest, then Marjorie, followed by graceful, always full of laughter, Amanda. There was something about that full rich smile of hers that could warm the coldest heart. At least most people’s hearts. Hair so richly brown and lips that always drew attention. Eyes a rich dark blue. Absolutely breathtaking in the blue dress that fitted her so well today.

All the girls were so beautiful that the small town of Franklin couldn’t remember seeing anything so pretty to come from Texas or any parts as lovely as these shining creatures. The townspeople had often hinted that they were by far the loveliest faces to grace the town. But the one that stood out the most in people’s minds was always Serendipity.

After giving birth to Alan, then suffering three miscarriages, Sarah hadn’t thought she would ever be blessed with having a child again. She had always wanted a daughter. When her prayers were finally answered, she insisted on the first girl being named Serendipity. She felt that fate had finally landed on their steps bringing them good luck. From then on, fate brought Sarah Beasley seven more beautiful daughters, each as flawless and breathtaking as the mother.

But after giving birth to her last child, Nadine, fate ceased to be on her side. The birth had been hard and she died a year later. It almost killed Alan Senior. His wife and children were the most important things in his life. He had worked long and hard to secure enough acres of land for their homestead. And now she was dead.

Serendipity and Alan had taken over. It was hard on them but for their Pa it was rougher. He aged overnight. But Alan and Serendipity struggled to keep the family alive and full of his strength.

Now their Pa was gone to parts unknown. The girls were alone again, with Serendipity the one in charge of the whole lot of them including the land and cattle.

A few years later, Patricia, Theresa, and Nadine perished in a mine cave-in. Serendipity blamed herself for not keeping a closer watch over them. It had been Buck Calahan who had eased her mind and come to her aid. Then there was the accident with Alan and the trial. It was a wonder that Serendipity could still muster enough strength to carry on.

One thing Serendipity had was determination and backbone. Others might have thought Marjorie to be the grandest of the girls, but Serendipity was by far the prettiest, even in the trousers she always wore with the shirtwaist and boots. Her long shiny auburn hair and her bright blue eyes always caught the eye of the passersby.

Mr. Cooper, you gonna just stand there and gawk or help me finish this order for Miss Serendipity? She ain’t got all day to stand around. She’s got chores to do just like us.

Sorry dear, I was just...

Daydreaming again. What was it this time?

He turned to Serendipity as she scanned the items laid out on the counter.

I was thinking what a great job Miss Sara here has done raising the girls. Her Mama and Papa would be right proud. Right proud.

Serendipity sent a smile his way. He always preferred to call her Miss Sara ever since her mother’s passing.

Yes indeed. Have you heard word from your Pa, child, about when he might be returning? Mrs. Cooper inquired while totaling the items.

The question caught Serendipity off guard. The other sisters noticed it.

Actually, no, I haven’t. I suspect he’s busy digging for that gold. We should be hearing something soon.

It’s been years. I would think he would drop a line, Mrs. Cooper voiced.

LOUISE GAZED TOWARD the end of the street watching a man step down from the stagecoach. Dressed in black pants with a white shirt, a thin black tie and a black vest, his black Stetson hat looked vaguely familiar. Could it be? It had been sometime, what two years, but yes, it was him.

H-He’s back. He’s back! she yelled, clapping her hands and jumping in the air, finding it hard to contain her excitement.

Marjorie dropped the bolts of cloth to the counter and raced to the door. Who?

Louise pointed down the street. He just got off the stage. And he’s more handsome than when he left.

Marjorie glanced up the street and quickly agreed. You’re right. He is back.

Like a swift current of wind, the other girls rushed to the door staring outside. Serendipity didn’t stir. Could their Pa really have returned? Nonsense, she’d heard what Alan had said. He wouldn’t have lied about that. Would he?

Well I’ll be, Sandra said slapping her hat to her pants. Ole Buck is back. The rascal is back. Yippee.

Who did you say? Mrs. Cooper asked. Did I hear you right?

Sure did, Sandra burst out happily. Buck Calahan is back. After two long years he’s back. Yee haw.

All eyes focused on Serendipity as the news spread through the general store. Her knees wanted to buckle. Had it been that long since it all happened? Buck Calahan was the man who had comforted her with her Mama’s passing when they were only young children. The man who had fallen in love with her, and cared for her when the mine had caved in on the three youngest girls. The man her brother had warned her to stay away from as he lay dying in her arms.

Serendipity watched as each of her sisters faces lit with excitement at the mention of Buck’s name. Why couldn’t she allow her excitement to show? It would be nice to have a man to help around the homestead. She could spend more time with her sisters instead of being like a Mama to them all the time. Not to mention allowing someone else to herd all the cattle when it came time to sell them.

Serendipity knew that each of them had been dealt a hard life with their Mama’s passing but it was Louise, at fourteen now, that she was sure had missed out the most. Now that Buck had returned, this would give her the chance to be that sister to Louise and all her sisters. She watched as each displayed a huge smile on their faces.

Come on, Serendipity, its Buck. He’s returned. You can have that same happy smile dancing on your face too. Not to mention feel those strong arms embrace you with a hug each day, just like before.

Marjorie stepped over to Serendipity. I’m glad that Buck has returned. Now you can go back to wearing dresses and behaving like a woman should, instead of being like a darn cowpoke worrying over that land.

Serendipity’s eyes intensified as well her words. Marjorie had a way to fuel the fire with her bladed tongue. That land is our home, our heritage. Pa and Ma worked hard for us to keep it. I won’t fail either one of them. Or Alan. Have you forgotten how hard he slaved? Have you so soon forgotten his memory now that another Calahan rides in here?

But I’m sure he still loves you, and you...

Serendipity raised her hand. Enough, Marjorie. That was over a long time ago.

Then I guess it’s true what Milton said.

Milton? Milton Calahan? Have you been sneaking around behind my back to see that man?

I only see him when we come into town, and on Sundays at church. And don’t think that I’m not aware that you probably already know this.

"I can put a stop to it."

Oh no. It’s bad enough that you don’t even go to church any more, you aren’t going to keep us from that. Marjorie spoke firmly as she flattened her hands on her hips.

Oh I wouldn’t mind, Sandra blurted.

Use your head, sister. She needs you to drive us in and keep her posted on events, Marjorie reminded.

One I see that has slipped her mind in this case. Serendipity arched a brow.

Come on, Serendipity, Sandra said. Marjorie’s right. Deep down you knew she was sneaking out to spend time with Miltie. We ain’t dumb. We’re Beasley girls. So stop you’re pretensions.

"He is handsome, Amanda voiced to her sister. I think he would make a fine husband, and a good provider."

See, even Amanda thinks so about Milton. Marjorie smiled.

You both are crazy drooling over that wiry Milton, Sandra poked.

Oh, I’m not talking about Milton. Amanda’s face shone. I was referring to Buck. I bet he’s still got those dimples that glow deep in his cheeks.

Serendipity clenched her fists to her side, anger threatening to explode like a stick of lit dynamite. If you wanted Buck so much, then you should have gone after him, dimples and all.

Kind of hard when you told us we had to stay away from those Calahan boys, Louise spoke shyly.

Well I see none of you listened to me in that field. I bet everyone of you here has your eyes so locked on one of those boys that you can’t wait to run off with them behind my back.

No one spoke a word.

I thought so. I’m not dumb. That’s one thing Sandra spoke truthfully.

We aren’t saying you are, Serendipity. We want to care for you like you have us since Ma died. Don’t you ever want to be happy, in love and feel a man’s arms around you? Marjorie asked, her words a bit warmer.

Serendipity’s blazing eyes penetrated Marjorie.

Look Serendipity, Marjorie said. I haven’t even kissed Milton. Are you happy? And as far as Buck is concerned, Milton told me Buck found him a girl back East. A fine fancy girl.

It was as if a razor slowly sliced into Serendipity’s heart. She tried not to let it show, but the pain flashing over her face was apparent to all.

Yeah, it appears so, Amanda noted as she edged back to the door. There’s a woman standing by him. She sure is beautiful.

Can’t be, Mr. Cooper replied. You girls are the prettiest girls this side of Texas or anywhere—including my wife here.

Mrs. Cooper nudged his arm. Oh hush up about me, ole man.

Nope, Sandra said looking out the door. She is mighty fine looking.

Serendipity settled the brown dusty hat on her head. Got my order tallied, Mrs. Cooper?

Yes, dear. You paid more than enough this morning with all those baked goods and eggs you brought in.

I’ll have a side of beef for you when I sell that other herd of cattle at the auction. I’m keeping one of the best aside for you.

Why don’t you allow Mr. Cooper and some of the men go with you instead of the girls this time? Choking on all that dust on those trails isn’t a pretty sight. And you know how Marjorie doesn’t like to get her hair and fingernails caked with dirt.

There’s plenty of water and soap for bathing, Mrs. Cooper, when we return. Besides, I can’t let these girls out of my sight anymore. Not since... A tear sprang in her eye. Her deceased sisters were never far from her mind.

The others noticed.

Marjorie, get what cloth you need, and any extras that you want. Her eyes shot to Sandra. No guns, young lady. You’re a lady, not a boy.

But you...

Not a word. It’s different.

Louise continued standing by the door. He’s coming this way.

Hurry, Mrs. Cooper, Serendipity urged.

But it was too late.

Two

M orning ladies, Buck said removing his hat and nodding to each in turn. Mr. and Mrs. Cooper. Serendipity. His voice was thick and raspy with trail dust.

Serendipity smirked. He must not have thought her a lady. Of course did she really look like one? Dressed in dusty covered breeches, boots caked with mud from working on the ranch. She shrugged inwardly. At least she was clean and smelled fresh underneath it all. She just wished that she had not braided her hair this morning, and had applied a little makeup.

Oh stop it, Serendipity scolded herself. It was obvious that he hadn’t loved her enough to fight for her, even though she’d let him know in no uncertain terms that she didn’t want another thing to do with him. No wonder he found another woman’s arms. She drove him to it.

Is it really you, Buck? Louise’s smile was wide.

He took hold of her hand. Yes dear, I’ve come home, after all this time.

We saw you with a beautiful woman, Amanda remarked.

Serendipity glanced past him. Yes...

Marjorie embraced him with a quick hug. Glad you’re back, Buck, but wish it was under different circumstances. Milton told me you were seeing another woman. Guess it was serious after all.

I hate to interrupt this blessed arrival after all this time, but we need to go. Serendipity’s voice shook with a cool edge. Mrs. Cooper, did you cut the cloth for Marjorie?

Yes, dear, you’re all set until next time. I really wish you would consider letting Mr. Cooper and some of the other men help you herd those cattle. It’s getting risky for women to be alone with those Indians, not to mention those other dirty-dealing cowpokes. It’s hard on a man but even harder on a woman.

I’ve taken care of myself and the girls these last two years. I can do it again. Her eyes fixed on Louise. But thank you for the offer. I’ll keep it in mind should I change my mind.

And I do wish that you would attend church with us like you used to.

She don’t cotton much to church anymore, Sandra said. Not since all the bad things she’s had in her life.

That will be enough. Serendipity eyed Louise again. I just feel like with all my bad luck, well, I suppose I can’t find any good in attending, Mrs. Cooper. I’ve lost so much.

The good Lord rains on both the righteous and the unrighteous, dear. There’s a reason for everything. Please give that some thought too.

Serendipity nodded then reached for the heavy bag of flour. Buck finished listening to the exchange, slapped the hat back onto his head and grabbed the bag from her hand.

I’ll throw this in the wagon for you, Serendipity.

I don’t need...

Too late. He already had it slung over his shoulder.

You’ll get your clothes dirty and I wouldn’t want your new bride to get upset with me because of...

New bride? he interrupted. You don’t understand...

Her eyes met with his, and for a moment she wished years could be reversed and she could be holding him again.

What I mean is... He considered for a moment. Clothes can always be washed.

Yeah, I reckon they can. Mr. Cooper, Mrs. Cooper. Serendipity said, slightly annoyed as she lifted another box and headed to the wagon.

Serendipity, can we stay a while and spend some time with Buck? He’s been away for so long, Marjorie insisted.

Why, so you can sneak out and see Milton? No, she said flatly, and dropped the box onto the back of the wagon. I have the ranch to tend to.

That stupid ranch.

Marjorie, I’ve heard enough. Even if you were to land Milton Calahan, you wouldn’t be living in a grand palace.

"Well I wouldn’t have to keep sewing and doing all the cooking and baking by myself. It would be different if I had my own shop. Face it, Serendipity, sometimes I feel like I am