The noisy streets of New York filtered through to the suite in their hotel. Kerry had been looking forward to her shopping spree with her Auntie Audrey. Kerry had not counted on what happened next.

Thomas entered the room in his typical reserved butler stoicism. "A gentleman caller for you, Miss Kerry."

"A gentleman caller? Who could that possibly be? We have just arrived here this morning." Kerry winced.

"His card says he is Everett Mann, Miss Kerry." Thomas responded after reading the presented card. "Shall I tell him you are indisposed?"

"No Thomas, you may show him in. I am curious to find out just how he found out I was here."

"You have many suitors, my dear." Audrey Stuart chuckled. She was still a beautiful woman at the age of fifty. Her eyes were still twinkling bright blue and had the same deep brown hair color of her niece only touched by sprinklings of gray. "Everett is certainly persistent."

"Too persistent, especially after I told him I am not interested." Kerry turned to look at the tall blond man entering the sitting room of their hotel suite.

"Kerry!" Everett beamed. "I am so glad I found you."

"Just how did you find me?"

"When I was told you were no longer in residence in Boston with your Aunt Audrey, I knew you would be shopping and of course New York is the best place to shop." Everett's smile was wickedly egotistical at his intellect and logic. "There are only a few hotels in New York that Audrey Astor would stay in and I was in luck. You were at the third hotel I inquired in."

"Well, you have found me." Kerry smiled graciously to her persistent suitor. "However I see no purpose in your reason for doing so. I hardly think you would want to shop with Auntie Audrey and myself."

"Dearest Kerry, I have taken a room in this hotel myself not for the purpose to shop with you, but to dine with you, enjoy a play or two and keep you company."

"Everett, I have told you before I returned to Geneva. I am not interested in your company."

"Yet you returned to Boston."

"I had promised Auntie Audrey I would visit regularly."

"Beautiful goddess, Kerry. I am too enchanted with your beauty to give up on us."

"Everett, there is no us!" Kerry said in exasperation. "There never was an us!"

"Not yet, Kerry. I intend to make you mine."

"I don't think you understand the word, not interested! Do you Mr. Mann?" Audrey snickered. "Perhaps, a simple no and go away would do."

"Nothing will do other than Kerry accept my proposal of marriage."

"I already told you, no!" Kerry's voice was rising in frustration. "I will never give up my home, Geneva!" Kerry stood and walked towards her room in the suites to escape this repeated irritating conversation.

"I will never understand what loyalty you have to that wilderness, when you can have the civilized world at your feet. I would see to it."

"And you sir, will never understand the clean air and freedom of the wide open spaces. You will never see the stars so clearly, enjoy the velvet purple view of a mountain sunrise, or watch an eagle soar in the skies. You, Everett, will never understand peace, serenity and beauty."

"I see your beauty, dearest Kerry. A beauty to be by my side."

"You want an ornament?" Audrey interjected caustically. "Kerry is a living breathing soul, her mother's daughter. She would never be an ornament."

"An ornament alone would never do. I also require an heir."

"Mr. Mann, please just leave right now before my head really starts to hurt."

"I would like you and Kerry to join me for dinner this evening, Mrs. Astor." Everett smiled ignoring her dismissal. Turning to Kerry he suggested, "We could discuss this love for the wilderness as we dine and then leave to enjoy a play."

"I really don't want to share dinner with you Everett." Kerry answered as she leaned against the door to her room. She was staring angrily into the gray eyes of the unwanted suitor. Everett Mann was handsome, there was no denying that, but he never worked a day in his life. Everything was given to him and his idea of life was watching the next polo match and sitting in the men's club discussing certificates and stocks that their bankers had invested for them. In reality, Everett Mann was a shallow person and a true bore. There was also something about him that disturbed her. Kerry had always felt that beneath that cordial and spoiled child persona was something deeper, a cruel side to his nature. Any wife of his would be a possession, not by love but by might and right. That feeling had frightened Kerry. It was Kerry's inner warning to keep him at a distance.

"I won't take no for an answer. You know that Kerry." Everett retorted. He was certain of one thing in his life. He got whatever he wanted, and he wanted Kerry. The beautiful dark brown haired, perfect figured, sculpted perfect face, light blue eyed, peaches and cream skinned, Kerry would be his one way or another. "Unlike your other suitors. I will not give up. I will stay here until you and your Aunt agree to dine with me."

"Oh alright, Everett. If it's alright with Auntie Audrey, we'll have dinner but that's all, understood?"

"Mrs. Astor?" Everett questioned for approval.

"One night for dinner would be fine." Audrey agreed just to get him out of the suite.

"Wonderful! I'll collect you at seven for dinner." Having his way again, Everett turned on his heels and pranced out the door.

"There's something about him that I don't like and never have since he first tried courting you. I just can't put my finger on it." Audrey revealed to her niece.

"My feelings exactly." Kerry agreed. "I love visiting you Auntie, and shopping with you, but I really love those miles between Everett and myself when I am at Geneva."

"I can understand that completely, dear Kerry. Let's forget that dinner engagement until this evening. I am in the mood to shop."

The rest of the day with Auntie Audrey was positively delightful for Kerry. They bought some new day dresses, and gowns. Kerry purchased several bolts of cotton and linen materials in different solid colors. She also purchased several bolts of different color and patterned calico. These were gifts for her Sosoni friends; they truly loved the fabrics, especially the calicos. For her Auntie Alyson she bought velvets, satins, brocades, and silks.

"Why do you buy that fabric for those Indians, I will never know." Audrey complained.

"It is more of a trade Auntie Audrey. I give them the calicos and I get buckskin trousers and shirts. They are comfortable for riding and they are warm and practical."

"Alyson must be furious when she sees you in that Indian apparel."

"She's accustomed to it!" Kerry laughed. "The two of you have seen to it that I was raised a lady from after my tomboy years, so don't fret!"

"Those brothers of yours still see you as that little tomboy, from what Alyson writes to me."

"I couldn't have learned to shoot, fight, ride and rope without them."

"Please don't admit to all of that!"

"I'm still always a lady with you and Auntie Alyson, don't worry. That other twin of mine only comes out when I am with my brothers."

"Just how are they doing?" Audrey asked. "Alyson doesn't write about them very much."

"She doesn't write because it's the same old story. They are kind of in a rut. Ayden spends most of his time in finances and new ranching principles to the chagrin of Papa. Ryan likes to spend most of his time working the ranch with hands on, and Dwayne spends most of his time fending off the eligible women in the county."

"Why don't those handsome brothers of yours ever come and visit their city cousins?"

"Your boys are usually across the ocean in Europe with Uncle Henry, and my brothers love the freedom of the open spaces. They still remember the visits with Mama and Auntie Alyson to the big cities. They never cared for the city at all. You know that." Kerry chuckled, "Besides, city folk don't care for the guns on their hips, and my brothers feel undressed without them."

"You manage to function in the city without your gun." Audrey shuddered in jest.

"I'm just more amiable."

"You are your mother's daughter!" Audrey laughed remembering the audacity of her sister with fondness. "And just as beautiful I must say."

"I do take after the Stuart women, don't I Auntie!"

Audrey only chuckled at her niece. "Let's get our purchases back to the hotel."

"Wait a moment Auntie, look at that!" Kerry was looking at a working sewing machine being demonstrated in front of a general merchandise store.

"Yes, it's what they call a sewing machine. They make our clothes now, there is no need for hand stitching anymore."

"I want to buy two, one for Auntie Alyson and one for dabai 'hubia."

"American names please!"

"Auntie Alyson and Morning Song."

"You are really influenced by the Indian woman, aren't you?"

"She was my wet nurse and then my nanny for ten years, until Auntie Alyson came to make a lady out of me. Of course she means a lot to me and influenced me."

"I just wish we could have cared for you sooner, you grew up in that male dominated and Indian influencing arena. Your father just wouldn't give you up."

"Of course not. After all, I am the only girl in this second generation. Besides, I like being Pa's little girl."

"Pa's little girl? Tomboy and fourth son is more like it!"

"I turned out alright."

"No doubt you are a lady when you choose, but you are twenty years old and you still haven't found a husband to suit you."

"Can I help it if the men in the west only want Geneva, the men of the east are wimps?"

"Your Uncle Henry is a man's man and so are your cousins."

"What can I say, Auntie. They broke the mold."

"I give up, but just remember you will have to marry sometime soon or you'll be an spinster."

"I prefer the word bachelor, and I see nothing wrong with that."

"What about your inborn mothering instinct? You will want children someday."

"I'll raise cattle and horses."

"You'll want babies."

"I'll have them without the excess baggage."

"I don't think Grady or your brothers would approve."

"I'll just have to talk them into it, but don't worry. I haven't even found a man I would consider to be father of my children."

"When you do, I think you will finally be in love."

"It hasn't happened yet."

"No, not yet. Soon I hope. You are too beautiful to be a spinster."

"Bachelor."

"Fine."

They purchased the two sewing machines and had them shipped to Geneva.

When Audrey and Kerry arrived in the lobby of the hotel they didn't notice the flash that darted around them and hid behind Kerry's peach silk street dress as they stopped to let a small, severe, and angry looking woman cross in front of them.

They did hear that worried and angry woman calling, "Bennett! Bennett! Come here at once!"

Once she had left the hotel lobby they continued on and walked the stairs to Audrey's second floor suites. Thomas opened the door at their knock and after entering the suites Thomas cleared his throat and asked, "Should I expect a young visitor with you today, Mrs. Astor?"

Audrey turned around and retorted, "What are you talking about, Thomas?" Audrey then saw the young boy behind Kerry. "And just who are you young man?"

"I'm Bennett Wessex, ma'am."

"Wasn't your mother just calling you in the lobby?" Kerry asked with a big smile as she knelt to eye level with Bennett. "Are you playing hide and seek with your Mama?"

"Miss Hudson isn't my Mama, she's my nanny. My Mama is in heaven, at least that's what Papa tells me." The little boy answered a little timidly.

Kerry felt an instant bond with the little boy upon hearing his mother was in heaven. Kerry understand so well what it was like not to have a mother at such a young age. Her own maternal instinct took over without her being aware of it as she asked, "Are you playing hide and seek with Miss Hudson then?"

"No, I'm not playing with Miss Hudson. I am hiding because I don't want to get spanked and hit again. She is so mean when Papa isn't with me." Bennett answered with a tremor to his voice.

"Where is your Papa?" Kerry asked in concern. It was obvious the little boy was afraid of Miss Hudson as Kerry watched him shake while talking about her. Kerry wondered about the little boy referring to spankings and being hit. Did his father know?

"He is getting business done with the telegraph and then getting tickets for a train ride." Bennett answered proudly. "Papa is always very busy. He is an important man."

"Your Papa is here with you in this hotel?"

"Oh yes, ma'am. He told me he'd be back before supper."

"Have you ever told your Papa that Miss Hudson hurts you?"

"I can't. Miss Hudson told me that she would beat me bad if I told Papa how she spanks me and pulls my ears. She's always mad and mean when Papa isn't around. She told me Papa wouldn't believe me." Little Bennett sighed heavily. "I don't think Papa would believe me. Miss Hudson is so nice and sweet when Papa is around."

Kerry couldn't help herself; she cradled Bennett in her arms and gave him a gentle kiss on his cheek. "I believe you, Bennett. Somehow we will get your Papa to believe you."

"You're a nice lady." Bennett grinned at Kerry. "You're real pretty too!"

"Why thank you Bennett." Kerry accepted and turned to her aunt, "Auntie Audrey, I think I am in love."

"With such a handsome young man, I can certainly see how it would happen." Audrey smiled at her niece. "Thomas, please find out where Mr. Wessex is staying in this hotel and send him a note that young Bennett here has found a playmate. We will entertain Bennett this afternoon. His Papa can collect him for supper."

"I will find out where his rooms are and relay the message." Thomas replied.

"Please make sure the note is signed, Mrs. Audrey Astor."

"Auntie, are you doing that for a reason?"

"Of course dear. I am married to a cousin of the Astors, and in New York it is wise to be a namedropper. I am certain it would keep Miss Hudson from collecting young Bennett before his Papa. Don't you think?"

"I do think." Kerry agreed. "We will have to work on convincing Papa, that little Bennett is telling the truth, won't we?"

"We will, given the right opportunity." Audrey combed her fingers through the dark hair of the young boy, "I believe you as well, young Bennett."

"Can we really play together this afternoon?" Bennett asked with a smile beaming on his face. "No one ever plays with me."

"We'll change that right away. Would you like to play cowboys?" Kerry asked playfully, "Can I call you Ben?"

"Sure you can ma'am."

"Ben, you can call me Kerry and that is Auntie Audrey. Okay?"

"Yes, ma'am, I mean Kerry."

"Cowboys say, `Sho Nuf!'" Kerry instructed.

"Sho Nuf!' Bennett repeated with glee.

Kerry spent the rest of the afternoon playing with Ben. She spent most of that time teaching Ben how to use a rope and lasso.

It was at dusk that a knock was heard on the door and Thomas answered it.

A tall and muscular man approximately the age of thirty stood at the door. "Good Evening. I am here to collect Bennett Wessex. I was left a note that he found a playmate and was spending the afternoon here."

"And you are?" Thomas questioned the stranger.

"I am Braden Wessex, Bennett's father."

"Do come in, Mr. Wessex. Bennett has indeed found a playmate and is quite involved in play at the moment. Shall I retrieve him for you?"

Before Braden Wessex could answer, Audrey Astor came into the entrance hall of the suite. "Mr. Wessex, I am Audrey Astor. We are captivated with your son, such a bright boy and a joy to be around."

"That's strange, his nanny Mildred Hudson says he is an introvert, slow in studies and doesn't like to play."

"I think you will find Miss Hudson to be in error. Just listen."

They both turned around to follow the sounds of a little boy laughing and a female voice giggling.

"I wouldn't take Hudson's word for that if I were you, Mr. Wessex." Audrey cautioned. "Why don't you look for yourself?"

Audrey slowly opened Kerry's bedroom door that had been left slightly ajar. Braden Wessex's eyes opened wide at the sight. His son Bennett had a rope around Kerry's waist and was sitting on her and tickling her rib cage area. Bennett was laughing as delightfully as Kerry.

"Little doggie, I'll git ya branded yet." Bennett laughed loudly as he began to tickle Kerry again. "Tickle Tickle."

"Please Ben that's enough, please stop!" Kerry was laughing even harder. She looked quite silly laying with her back on the floor, a child sitting on her and tickling her ribs. Her dress was a rumpled mess and was up to her knees by this time.

Braden cleared his throat to get attention, when that didn't work and he couldn't be heard over their laughter, he spoke, "Bennett! Bennett! It `s time to go to our suites. It's time for supper."

Bennett looked up and saw his father in the doorway, "Papa!" He got off Kerry and ran to his father.

Braden Wessex scooped his son up in his arms and gave him a warm hug. "I see you were playing and having a great time. I am sorry to break this up, but it is time for supper."

"I love Miss Kerry!" Bennett announced. "Papa, can Miss Kerry and Auntie Audrey have supper with us?"

"Would you really like that?" Braden asked his son with surprise. It was the first time Bennett had ever asked to have someone share supper with him. It was the first time he had ever heard Bennett laughing, and courting a large smile since his mother died. Braden shook his head briefly; he didn't want to think about Laura. The boy usually was sullen and introverted these past three years.

"I really, really, really would Papa. Oh please!"

"Mrs. Astor and Miss Kerry, would you please join us for supper?" Braden requested politely.

Kerry stood up at that moment and Braden got his first good look at her. She was incredibly beautiful. Braden Wessex suddenly felt weak in the knees and very much like a schoolboy. His response to Kerry surprised no one more than himself. After the death of his wife, Laura, he had stayed in mourning. Braden had not even looked at another woman in the three years since her death. He had loved Laura deeply and went into depression after her death. No woman would ever be as beautiful or as wonderful as his Laura, Bennett's mother! It was because of that depression he had left England to visit his father's friend on his parent's advice. Braden's father had told him he needed to get far away from his memories of Laura.

"Ben, sweetie! I would love to have supper with you, but we have promised another gentleman supper tonight." Kerry explained as she walked up to Bennett. Braden was still holding him as Kerry stood tiptoe and brushed Bennett's cheek with a little kiss. "I would prefer to have supper with you."

"Could you invite your gentleman friend as my guest as well?" Braden suggested. He was unable to take his eyes from her. Thunderstruck would be a good description of his current situation.

"What do you think Auntie Audrey?"

"I think I would prefer Bennett's company over Everett's myself. Everett will just have to adjust. Don't you think?"

"I think we will accept your gracious invitation Mr. Wessex. If you are sure it isn't too much of an imposition."

"No imposition at all. I have never seen Bennett so enthused or happy in quite awhile. I rather enjoy it and would like to make it last."

"Then we accept. I can't wait until supper, Ben."

"Can I have a kiss Miss Kerry?"

"My pleasure Ben." Kerry reached up on her tiptoes to softly kiss Bennett's cheek. Kerry focused on his father clearly then. He was handsome in a masculine way. Braden had dark hair and deep blue eyes like the color of clear lake. Kerry noticed how much Bennett resembled his father, the same hair and eye color as well as strong cheekbones, a square jaw and a full sensual mouth. Kerry looked at those lips on Braden Wessex and to her surprise wondered what it would be like to be kissed by them. How could I possibly be so attracted to a man I just met and know nothing about? Hold on there Kerry, don't get carried away!

Braden was thinking the same thing. Those full lips are most definitely kissable. I wonder how she would taste? This is crazy! I don't even know this woman. "Thank you. Bennett and I will bathe and change. We will meet you downstairs in the Golden Ring restaurant say about seven o'clock?"

"Seven it is!" Audrey accepted and walked with Braden Wessex to the door.

"I hope you are the one that will tell Everett Mann that we are sharing supper." Kerry said to her Auntie Audrey.

"That is the benefit of age, Kerry." Audrey smiled. "I get to tell the young studs where to go and what do with themselves without regret or fear. Of course I will tell him."

"I think I should change." Kerry said noticing her rumpled dress.

"That is a splendid idea! Your dress really wasn't meant to play in, much less play as doggie for roping."

"Aunt Audrey, admit it. You had as much fun as Ben and I did."

"I did indeed. It has been too long since a little boy was underfoot, and my sons still show no interest in providing grandchildren even though one of them is married for three years now."

"Last I heard a husband usually spends sometime in the same bed with his wife to make the children. Robert is hardly ever in the same town with Eloise."

"You are bold to say the least. It must be that Wild West Indian influence. I should blush to such references."

"After giving birth to two sons, if you don't know how it's done, then the world is truly in big trouble here in the East."

"A lady never discusses such things, Kerry McGillinen."

"She most certainly does! Just not in mixed company."

"I keep forgetting you are a grown woman. I think I am so sensitive to the subject because I know you are right. Robert and Eloise need some time together to make a grandchild."

"I `m sure you will find a way to make that happen."

"Maybe I should send them on a trip to Geneva and let those Indians show them how it's done."

"That, Auntie Audrey, is a great idea."

They both laughed and went to their rooms to bathe and change for supper.

Everett Mann arrived at their suite precisely at 7 o'clock. Audrey was the first to greet him.

"Good evening, Everett." Audrey offered her hand. "Kerry and I have a surprise for you. "

"Really?" Everett was taken aback.

"We will be sharing dinner with Kerry's new beau, and you are invited." Audrey related with a wicked smile on her face.

"A new beau? What? This is absurd!" Everett turned red with anger, but he knew he could not cross Kerry's Aunt if he wanted Kerry as his wife.

Kerry entered the room at that moment and Everett spun around to glare at her. Kerry had for the first time seen a glimmer of rage in Everett's eyes that confirmed her fear of his potential violence and cruelty.

"What is this about a new beau, Kerry?" Everett's voice was conspicuously restrained.

"I admit I have been completely captivated." Kerry smiled in response. "His name is Bennett and I fear it was love at first sight."

"And he feels the same for you? He has received your permission to court you?" Everett growled.

"Well I'm not sure if he feels the same. No, he hasn't asked to court me." Kerry replied. Inside she was laughing at Everett's consternation. It was especially funny because Everett had no idea that Bennett was about five years old. "Will you be coming to dinner with us?"

"Indeed!" Everett snarled. "I want to meet this competitor. Will he be taking you out after dinner? I would like to know because I purchased theatre tickets for tonight."

"I never agreed to accompany you to the theatre, Everett."

"You only promised supper, but since I now have to share dinner with my competitor, you should concede and accompany me."

"Did you purchase a ticket for Auntie Audrey as well?"

"I anticipated that, and I did."

"Then we will concede for the theatre, but do not depend on my agreeing to any more than that for the next week we are here."

"Let's get on with supper." Everett refused to respond to Kerry. Instead he opened the door and bowed slightly for the woman to proceed to the restaurant. When Kerry walked by, Everett took her arm and led her down the stairs. His grip was strong and Kerry thought she might bruise from it.

"Everett, your hold is quite strong. Could you be a little more gentle, please?" Kerry whispered to him.

"I apologize, you just mean so much to me. My instinct is to possess you." Everett whispered back.

"I will never be possessed." Kerry warned quietly as he released his strong hold and walked her down the stairs and towards the hotel restaurant.

Braden saw Kerry enter and stood up so she could see him. He was disappointed when he noticed the tall muscular blond man holding her arm. It shouldn't matter to him, but it did.

"Mr. Wessex." Audrey recognized and proceeded to walk towards his table and little Bennett.

"Miss Kerry!" Bennett squealed when he saw her and ran to her.

Kerry removed her arm from Everett and allowed Bennett to run into her arms as she knelt to hug him.

Everett was staring at Braden Wessex, assuming he was the new beau. Everett was not even paying attention to the little boy that ran into Kerry's arms until he heard Kerry.

"Do I get a big kiss from you Bennett?" Kerry asked hugging the little boy.

"You sure do!" Bennett gave Kerry a big smacking kiss on her cheek.

"That is Bennett?" Everett choked in surprise.

"Bennett, I would like you to meet Everett Mann an acquaintance of mine." Kerry had the politesse with introduction.

"I am please to meet an acquaintance of Miss Kerry." Bennett bowed. "Will you join us for supper?"

"Such a polite young gentleman," Audrey remarked. "Perhaps now you can see why Kerry is in awe of her Bennett, can't you Everett?"

"It is understandable, but I had no idea that Kerry was so fond of children." Everett grinned, "I am happy that obtaining heirs will be agreeable."

Bennett pulled Kerry over to the table and pulled her chair to seat her. "You will sit next to me!" Bennett was beaming.

Everett and Audrey came in behind them and Braden offered the chair next to him to Audrey. When Braden had seated her, he offered his hand to Everett Mann. "I am Braden Wessex, Bennett's father."

Returning his hand Everett asked. "Your accent is very heavy, you are English?"

"I am."

"You are here on business?"

"Actually, Bennett and I are on holiday."

"Will you be in New York long?"

"Only one more week. I have some business ends to tie up and then we plan on visiting a friend of my father's."

"Well, I hope you and your son enjoy your holiday in the States."

"I hope we do." Braden wanted to ask if he was Kerry's suitor, or fian. He chose not to ask since his question could be misconstrued, but more importantly he didn't even know Kerry and it was none of his business. Braden was aware that Bennett had taken immediately to Kerry and that was something special.

The meal was formal and conversation controlled with proper etiquettes. Kerry and Bennett were oblivious to the formality. They were enjoying each other. Kerry was also oblivious to the continual glances of Braden. Everett was aware of Braden's observations of Kerry.

"Kerry, we should be leaving for the theatre. I told my carriage to wait for us in the front of the hotel at precisely eight thirty. The play begins at nine o'clock." Everett said in authority.

"You will excuse us, Mr. Wessex?" Audrey asked for her niece. She had bristled at Everett's tone and did not want her host to be insulted.

"Of course. It is Bennett's bedtime as well." Braden answered. "In the future please call me Braden. Thank you for joining us. You have made Bennett happy."

"It was our pleasure. Good night and sweet dreams, Bennett." Kerry quietly said to Bennett as her hand gently touched his cheek.

"Can we play tomorrow?" Bennett asked Kerry hopefully.

"That is up to your Papa." Kerry answered looking at Braden.

Braden felt like he was going to melt when their eyes locked. God he wanted to kiss her, but Everett was her suitor and next to her. Braden's thoughts would never do and he took a deep breath for control. "If you have the time for Bennett, of course he can play."

"Yippee!" Bennett bubbled. "I'll see you tomorrow Miss Kerry."

"I look forward to it." Kerry told Bennett as she forced her eyes to break from Braden's and look at Bennett.

"We must go!" Everett said as he again grabbed Kerry's elbow to guide her out of the restaurant. Everett was not pleased when he had noticed the shared looks of Kerry and Braden.

At the end of the evening when Everett returned Kerry and her aunt to the hotel he whispered into Kerry's ear. "I was not aware you loved children so much. It pleases me to know that you will enjoy my heirs. I would like to take you home tonight and start making our children."

Kerry pulled away from Everett and glared at him. "You forget yourself, Everett. There is no us, there will never be an us, and I do not want your marriage or children."

"You're just tired. Good night my dear." Everett gloated with a so you say now tone.

Kerry stormed past her Auntie Audrey and nearly ran into her room. "Oh I despise that man." She said aloud to no one in her room.

She heard Auntie Audrey say, "Good night dearest. At least the play was enjoyable."

Kerry laughed in agreement. "Good night Auntie. The play was enjoyable." Kerry called Marie to help her change into her nightdress and crawled into her soft bed for a sound sleep.

Kerry had little sleep last night. She had tossed and turned so infuriated at Everett, and there was something else on her mind. Kerry kept seeing Braden Wessex. She saw him in her mind and she felt tingles in her stomach. Why did she think Braden was so handsome? Was it because she adored little Ben? She really did adore little Ben. Since it was useless to try and sleep Kerry dressed in her Sosoni buckskins and moccasins. Auntie Audrey hated her Indian dress so Kerry only wore it early in the morning whenever she took her rides. Auntie Audrey had no idea how soft and functional the buckskins were.

The sun was just starting to peek over the horizon as Kerry slipped out of the hotel. She had put her hair up and placed a cowboy hat on her head. Kerry gave thought she gave the appearance of a pretty man, and since the fringed buckskin jacket covered her to her mid thigh, and the trousers were lose enough so her curved calves were undefined, she could pass as a pretty young man and therefore was ignored as she left the hotel. Comments were made on her western dress, but that was all.

Kerry quickly walked to the stables where she could rent a horse. The ride in the park would be enjoyable. Kerry chose a black stallion since the stable master thought she was a young man.

Braden was also awake early in the morning. He too had spent a restless night with conflicting emotions. Braden loved his deceased wife and found his thoughts drifting to the beautiful Kerry. Braden was still in shock at how quickly his beloved son had taken to the young woman. Yes, he had taken to Kerry just as quickly as Bennett did. A ride in the park would be relaxing and he wanted Bennett with him. Braden reveled in the happiness Bennett had displayed yesterday and wanted to keep it alive. Silently he slipped past Mildred Hudson's room in his suites and opened the room next to hers to wake Bennett.

"Papa?" Bennett asked wiping the heavy sleep from his eyes.

"Wake up Bennett. We'll dress you and I'll take you for a morning ride," Braden whispered. "Do you want to go for a ride with me?"

"Oh yes, Papa. I really do. I get happy when you spend time with me." Bennett said with innocent glee.

"We must be very quiet not to wake Miss Hudson."

"Shh!" Bennett murmured putting his little finger over his mouth, "I really don't want to wake her."

"Come, I'll help you get dressed."

"Miss Hudson will get mad when she can't find you, Papa."

"Don't you worry about her! I left her a note."

Bennett was so happy that the delight twinkled in his eyes. Braden could hardly believe the sparkle he saw in his son's eyes as he dressed him. Braden promised himself he would definitely start spending more time with Bennett, Laura's precious son. Carrying Bennett in his arms, Braden went to the stable stall he had rented for his thorough bred, Socks. Braden had trained this horse himself and they had a special bond. Braden was determined to bring Socks with him for his holiday in the States. It had cost extra, but money was really no matter to the Viscount. Braden saddled Socks, put Bennett on the English saddle and then mounted himself behind Bennett. Once mounted, Braden picked Bennett up to ride on his lap. In a few moments they were headed for the park.

Braden handed Bennett the reins and started giving instructions on riding to his son when he spotted the black stallion and the buckskins of the rider. Curiosity took hold of Braden and he instructed Bennett to rein Socks towards the western cowboy.

As Socks came closer, Bennett recognized the rider. "Miss Kerry!" Bennett shouted. Braden choked on a quick gulp, looking closer he realized his son was right, it was Kerry. God, he didn't even know her last name.

Kerry turned toward the familiar voice. "Ben!" She reined her stallion to canter over to Braden and his son. God Braden Wessex looked gorgeous in the morning.

"Where did you get those clothes?" Braden asked blatantly not thinking how rude it sounded.

"I beg your pardon!" Kerry answered defensively. She loved these clothes but she knew it was upsetting to city folk, and of course a Brit would be shocked.

"I apologize, Miss Kerry. I didn't mean it the way it sounded. You see I will be heading out west the end of this week and those clothes look so comfortable. I find I would like to own some of my own." Braden tried to explain. "They look so functional as well as comfortable."

"Papa, Miss Kerry lives in the West. She is only visiting her Auntie." Bennett informed his father about his new friend.

"Bennett is right, and I am sorry to say I don't know where you can purchase anything like this. These are gifts to me from my Sosoni friends." Kerry clarified.

"Where in the West do you live?" Braden could not control his curiosity.

"I live in Nevada."

"That is where Bennett and I will be heading."

'What a coincidence." Kerry stated with amazement, "And I will be leaving the end of this week myself."

"Are you returning by train?" Braden hoped he wasn't sounding too eager. I f she wasn't he would offer her his private car he had just purchased yesterday for the trip.

"Yes, I will be taking the Saturday Central Pacific."

"Bennett and I are taking that same train." Braden was actually excited and he couldn't believe it. "It seems that we are fated to share company."

"I certainly will enjoy Bennett's company."

"I am also certain you can prepare him for our visit in the wilderness."

Kerry started laughing. "The West isn't really that much of a wilderness anymore."

"Papa does that mean we will be going with Miss Kerry?"

"It looks like that son."

"Yippee!" Bennett's delight was evident.

"I hope you can teach me about Nevada. Would you have breakfast with us?" Braden invited.

"I would be happy to accept, but let's enjoy the ride first."

"I couldn't help but notice how well you set the stallion." Braden complimented Kerry. "It is very unusual for a lady to ride one."

"As a young child, I learned how to ride and break horses from my brothers." The grin on Kerry's face was quite broad as she looked at Braden directly. "Mare or stallion, it's a horse."

"Miss Kerry told me that she has even been on cattle drives and she taught me how to lasso a doggie."

"A what?" Braden asked quite surprised. "How to lasso?"

"I think your Papa has a lot to learn Bennett."

"Sho Nuf!" Bennett spouted proudly. "That's cowboy talk, Papa!"

"I do have a lot to learn." Braden admitted holding back his laughter, he really did have a lot to learn and his five and half year old son was already ahead of him.

The trio enjoyed the ride in the park for more than an hour before they returned to the stables.

Kerry and Braden each held one of Bennett's hands as they walked back to the hotel.

Everett spotted Kerry in her buckskins before the trio spotted him. Everett was accustomed to seeing Kerry in buckskins and hated them. When he married her he would have them burned. Walking up to Kerry, Everett grabbed her arms.

"Kerry, I have been waiting for you for more than an hour!" Everett shouted when he grabbed her. "Why are you wearing those horrible Indian clothes? You are a lady, my lady. You embarrass me when you wear them. Damn you, I should rip them off you!"

"Everett, you're hurting me. Let me go!" Kerry squealed in pain. Everett was exerting great force and started shaking her.

"Let her go!" Braden said deceptively quiet. Braden had no patience for anyone that hurt another, especially a woman and to his surprise he had feelings for Kerry.

"Back off Brit. This is between me and my woman!" Everett snarled.

"I am not your woman. I never was your woman. I never will be your woman!"

"The hell you aren't! I want you, so you are! You'd better get used to it." Everett growled and applied more pressure.

"Obviously you didn't hear the lady." That was the only warning Everett received before he found himself knocked to the ground with right upper cut.

"That's my Papa!" Bennett beamed as he looked at the large blond man sprawled on the ground.

Braden put a protective arm around Kerry and took his son's hand as they walked past the embarrassed Everett Mann.

"Where did you learn to fight like that?" Kerry asked Braden, she was surprised that one blow knocked Everett down. Everett was a tall and strong well-built man.

"I had training from professional pugilists in London."

"Oh." Kerry said still surprised at the one punch it took to rid her of Everett. She was impressed even more by Braden Wessex.

Braden led Kerry and Bennett to his suites. "We'll order breakfast now."

"Good, I'm hungry." Bennett announced.

Mildred Hudson entered the room with a gasp, "Mr. Wessex, what have you brought into our rooms? A savage? Think of the effect on Bennett!"

"Kerry is hardly a savage Miss Hudson, and she has been a wonderful influence on Bennett." Braden informed his son's governess. "We are going to order our breakfast, did you eat?"

"No, I was waiting for you," Mildred said softly. "I wasn't anticipating company." The glare Mildred shot at Kerry could have melted iron.

"Perhaps this is an inconvenient time." Kerry tried to excuse herself catching the angry glare of Mildred Hudson. Kerry recognized the change in Mildred's tone and the unspoken; this is my territory of a she cat.

"I won't hear of it, and neither will Bennett. You must join us for breakfast. We would like that." Braden countered unaware of the hostility emanating from Mildred.

"Bennett, keep Kerry occupied while I order our breakfast." Braden ordered his son.

"Yes sir!" Bennett said proudly.

The moment Braden Wessex left the suites Mildred Hudson changed personality.

"You savage strumpet. Get out right now. I won't tolerate you interfering in my relationship with Braden Wessex!" Mildred snarled to Kerry.

"I have no intention of interfering in your territory Miss Hudson. I do believe I am correct in assuming that as a grown man, Mr. Wessex is capable of making his own choices."

"You bitch! Stay away from him! I have put up with his rotten spoiled little brat to make him learn to love me. I won't have a savage like you endanger that, just because you are pretty."

"Speaking of Bennett, how can you hit this boy to the point he is afraid of you and hates you."

"What do I care if the brat hates me? He deserves the beatings. He is a rotten little brat due to the spoiling his father provides him because of his guilt over the death of his wife."

"Beatings? You beat Bennett?"

"What of it?" Mildred hissed. "That little brat brought you into his father's life. I know, I heard them talking last night. I shall beat him well for doing that."

Bennett was trembling in fear at the Mildred Hudson he was used to, and when Bennett heard he was going to get a beating he hid under the table.

"You won't touch Bennett ever again, or you'll answer to me!" Kerry snarled back.

"You won't be able to. I will convince Braden that you are a lying trollop and a bad influence on his son."

"I think you will find that hard to do, Miss Hudson." The familiar male voice came from the side door. Braden walked into the room. He had forgotten his money clip and was returning to the rooms when he heard Mildred begin her tirade. He had waited to hear everything and he was glad he did. Braden now knew the truth of Mildred Hudson and was beyond furious to learn she had beat his son, Laura's son. "I think you will find that very hard to do. You're services are terminated immediately."

Mildred held her hand to her mouth. "Braden, this woman provoked me into anger. I didn't know what I was saying."

"You knew exactly what you were saying and I understood every word. You will never have the opportunity to lay a finger on my son again. Start packing. I will put you on the first ship back to England."

"Braden." Mildred's voice was imploring.

"Get out of my sight!"

Kerry was reaching for Bennett under the table. "Come out now, Bennett. It's safe."

Braden went on his knees to Bennett. "I'm sorry son. Why didn't you tell me she hurt you?"

Tears of fear were streaming from Bennett's eyes when he answered his father. "Miss Hudson told me she would hurt me worse and you wouldn't believe me."

"Don't you ever think that again, you must know you can tell me anything. I will believe you, I promise."

"How much did you hear?" Kerry asked Braden.

"I heard everything and too much. I apologize for her misguided infatuation and her atrocious language." Braden responded softly as he gently stroked his son's tear stained face. "I think our trip to the Geneva ranch will be postponed, Bennett. I have to find a new governess for you."

"Geneva Ranch!" Kerry took a sharp intake of breath. "You're going to the Geneva Ranch?"

"You know it?" Braden asked in astonishment. "We are visiting my father's good friend who owns it, Grady McGillinen. Do you know him?"

"Yes." It was the only answer Kerry could get out the shock was too much. Talk about fate.

"Do you live near there?" Braden surmised.

"Yes, you can say that."

"Then I have a wonderful idea. Bennett is already fond of you. I would like to hire you to be his governess."

"I don't know."

"Please say yes, Bennett adores you. I can't think of anyone that would make him a better governess. I pay well and I'll pay you more. My son's happiness is that important to me. We are both going to Nevada, even on the same train." Braden remembered he didn't even know Kerry's full name. " Say yes, Miss Astor." Now that was a good guess since her aunt was Audrey Astor.

"I'm not Miss Astor. I'm_" Kerry hesitated, she wasn't sure she wanted him to know she was Kerry McGillinen, the daughter of the man he was going to visit and she didn't know why that should matter, but she wanted to be close to Bennett and Braden. The thought of being employed as a governess sounded like fun and she liked Bennett a lot. Those strange feelings she had around Braden felt good as well. She had to think of a name, now what name could she think of. "I'm Kerry Blaine." Kerry thought of the name of a mining town near their ranch.

"Would you agree to be Bennett's governess?" Braden pushed. He wanted Kerry to stay near Bennett and himself.

"Please Miss Kerry," Bennett implored. "I promise to try to be a good boy."

"You are a good and wonderful boy, Bennett." Kerry sighed, "I will accept your employment Mr. Wessex. I can't so no to Bennett."

"Please call me Braden, Kerry." Braden found himself grinning from ear to ear. He didn't know why, but he was quite happy to keep Kerry near.

"Can we eat now?" Bennett asked. "I'm hungry."

"I'm hungry also." Kerry agreed.

"Let's go to the restaurant to eat. I don't think I can wait much longer myself." Braden concurred.

"You won't be ashamed being seen with a woman in buckskin?" Kerry questioned.

"Why? Should I be?" Braden queried back. "You Miss Blaine would look beautiful in a potato sack. Isn't that right, Bennett?"

"Sho Nuf!" Bennett giggled.

"Thank you kind sirs." Kerry answered as she took Braden's offered arm. When she touched him she felt those same funny feelings again.

Braden stopped at the desk in the hotel lobby and made arrangements for a room on another floor for Mildred Hudson and obtain passage for her on the next available ship to London. Braden Wessex was a true gentleman and would not leave the woman stranded in a strange country. He offered to pay all her expenses and left a sizable sum as severance pay.

In the restaurant only a few eyes turned at the woman in buckskin, but the few eyes that stared were men admiring the beautiful Kerry.

"Are you sure I'm not embarrassing in my ensemble?" Kerry leaned over and whispered to Braden Wessex.

"I think its just jealousy that Bennett and I are dining with the most beautiful woman in New York." Braden answered gallantly.

After breakfast Braden walked Kerry to her aunt's suites. "I should go in with you and talk to her about your accepting employment as Bennett's governess."

"I prefer to do that myself." Kerry replied knowing her aunt never questioned anything she did, but wanted to tell Auntie Audrey that she was going to Geneva with Braden Wessex and that he was visiting Grady McGillinen, her own father. The irony of it was so funny, Kerry wanted to share that with Auntie Audrey privately.