“There are a few things you need to know,” James added in a whisper.
“I was shot in the back because after the first shot fired from them, I turned to cover Jason while firing my second round. I don’t want him or anyone else to know that.
“Second, I will be in a wheelchair for a while, and maybe permanently. This will not keep me from fulfilling my duties as mayor or around the ranch.
“And third,” he said, lowering his voice even more, “the docs said I could use the restroom by myself, and our intimate time should be unaffected.”
“You’re still my strong man,” she told him, looking into his fatigued eyes, “and together we will soldier on, always for good.”
“I got lucky, Babe, when I found you. Now get some rest. I’ll be right here.”
The doctor asked a reluctant Janice to return in the morning, telling her they expected no change in his condition overnight.
Janice, along with her new family, settled in for the night above the restaurant. They consoled Billy, who was worried about losing another daddy.
* * * *
The next morning Sheriff Johnson checked in on James and the shooter, who would be a future addition to his next public execution.
“We have three now,” the Sheriff whispered to James. “Two who thought it wise to disrespect me, and the other one in the jail next door, who did this to you.
“I was thinking about something different this time. I’m getting a bit bored with the hangings. I’ll let you know when I come up with the alternative. Rest assured, Mayor, you will have the opportunity to face your shooter and send him straight to hell!”
“With all due respect, Sheriff, I only want to focus on healing, my family, and my duties to this fair town.”
“Rest up for now, James, and we will have you back at your post in no time.”
* * * * * * *
Chapter Two
Weston, Colorado
Sheriff Johnson wanted the full story on James’ recovery and when he could expect him back to work, so he talked to the doctors before leaving.
He tasked Doc Walters with finding a wheelchair that would work for now. Meeting Janice on his way out, he expressed his best wishes for James’ recovery and assured her James’ post would be held open for his return.
James’ family, both old and new, would spend the next days in the rented rooms before heading back to the ranch. Jason and Janice made the short drive home each day to do chores and to settle on the next steer to butcher.
“We need to get this done before James comes home,” she told Jason. “He’s going to want to help if we wait until he’s back here.”
* * * *
The butchering took from sunrise until after 4 p.m. Jason pitched in and carried his full weight, even though this was only his second time preparing a steer.
The carcass was delivered in the truck that same night to the restaurant owner, who was happy to pay the agreed-upon price. He personally delivered room service to his new guests without being asked. Janice thought this would be the last time for a while that she would be delivered hot food.
Jason had an idea for a project he wanted to deliver to James in the next couple of weeks and was up early the next morning, hoping to meet the electrical “magic man,” as the restaurant owner sometimes called him.
Cam was his actual name, as Jason learned when he offered to buy the old-timer breakfast.
“I don’t pay for breakfasts since I keep the restaurant freezers working full time.”
“Sorry,” replied Jason. “I had heard that from the owner before but forgot about it. Anyway, I figured since you’re so good at electrical work that maybe you could help me with a project I have in mind.”
“You know you’re not the only one to ask me a favor, don’t you? I get at least one request every day, and sometimes more.”
“This one,” replied Jason, “is for Mayor James VanFleet, and I can pay you.”
“Well, that changes everything,” replied Cam with a laugh.
“Which part?” asked Jason.
“Both parts, son. That’s why we’re still talking here.”
Jason relayed his idea of building James an electric wheelchair. “Not the kind old peop...well, I mean not like the traditional slow ones you used to see around.”
“No need to mind your tongue around me, Jason. I’m damn old and proud of it. I was so cocky and careless as a young man, I never expected to live past the age of 30. So, you want a wheelchair that a tough cowboy like James could be proud of, right?”
“Yes, sir,” said Jason, getting excited. “Like a monster truck, only smaller, I guess.”
Cam laughed, thinking that it sounded like an interesting project.
“Okay,” he said aloud.
“Okay, what?” asked Jason.
“We can build it for six silver dollars and no less, paid up front. Plus, you will pay for all the parts.”
The price was a little more than Jason had budgeted, but he had already discussed it with Lauren and she was on board. It took a fair amount of the money Jason and Lauren had left, but he paid Cam without another word.
“We should have it done in a week or two, and it will cost you about another four silvers for the parts, I’m guessing. Meet me downtown at the old hardware store tomorrow morning around 9 a.m.,” he added. “Now, let an old man enjoy his breakfast.”
“Yes, sir,” replied Jason, “and thank you.”
Jason told Lauren the good news, keeping it a secret from Janice and the kids for now.
* * * *
Sheriff Johnson prepared the cell for his newest guest. He was particular about the cleanliness of
