Stronger Than the Rest Read Online Free Page B

patient, continue with the treatments, and let nature take its course.”
    Doc Garland was a good man, used by most of the influential residents of Denver, and considered the best in this region. Drew knew he was getting the finest treatment available, but that still didn’t relieve his frustration.
    “I’ll do my best, Doc. I’m just damn tired of sitting in this chair.” Drew’s face reddened a little when he glanced at the nurse. “Sorry, ma’am,” he added.
    “No need to apologize, Mr. MacLaren. You’re doing much better than you know and handling it well. You’re much stronger than you realize. I’ve seen patients throw fits of frustration and others give up completely. They don’t even try. You aren’t either of those types. If anyone can walk again, you can.” Her smile was broad and her tone conveyed that she believed what she said.
    “Thank you, ma’am. I’ll try to remember that.”
     
    ******
     
     “The message says another of the Bierdan ranch hands quit. She can’t have more than seven or eight men left.” Drew set down the piece of paper with the latest update from Frank Alts, their contact in Cold Creek.
    Alts was a former Colorado Ranger. He’d helped clear out the rustlers at the Taylor Ranch, and had been there the day Drew was shot. Alts had already made up his mind to quit the Rangers, find another job in Denver, and raise his son, Aaron. The death of the previous sheriff had left an opening for an experienced lawman, and the people of Cold Creek had wasted no time offering the position to Frank, along with a house and monthly account at the general store.
    “And the Langdon ranch?” Louis asked.
    “Frank says he’s struggling. Langdon was a farmer back East and is trying to make a go of it as a cattle rancher. Frank says he works hard but just doesn’t have the skills for it. It’s just a matter of time.”
    “Do we know if Grant Taylor is interested in either of these ranches?”
    “I haven’t heard of it, but that doesn’t mean he’s not.”
    Louis contemplated going against Grant for the same land. It didn’t sit well with him, but he was a businessman, and he wanted the Langdon and Bierdan ranches. “It’s time to make an offer to both Eloise Bierdan and Langdon. You’ll have to be the one to go.” A knock on the door interrupted Louis.
    “Excuse me, Mr. Dunnigan, Mr. MacLaren, but Mr. Jericho is outside. He says he must speak with you right away, Mr. MacLaren.” Terrance stood at attention, waiting for a response.
    “Please, ask him to come in, Terrance.”
    Drew never ceased to be amazed at Jericho’s size. He filled the doorway, ducking so he wouldn’t hit his head, and stood with his hands at his sides. “Mrs. Alicia MacLaren and Miss Tessa Taylor are at your house, Mr. MacLaren.”
    “They’re here, in Denver?” Drew’s brows furrowed. His surprise was apparent but he gave no indication as to whether the news pleased or angered him.
    “Yes, sir. Both are resting at the house.”
    “Well, Drew, it appears our conversation must be put off until a more appropriate time. Go ahead and see to your guests.” Louis Dunnigan excused himself as Jericho moved to assist Drew with his papers.
    “Terrance,” Drew called for his assistant while Jericho wheeled him to the elevator.
    “Yes, Mr. MacLaren?”
    “Make reservations for three at The Regency. At six. My guests are used to eating supper early.”
     

Chapter Four
    Cold Creek, Colorado
    “That’s enough. Anymore and you’ll kill him,” Luther’s voice pierced the quiet night as he watched his partner, Vern, haul the bloodied man up. The others in their group stood around, unmoved by the brutality but making no effort to join in the beating.
    They’d been sent to Cold Creek to encourage the men of both the Bierdan and Langdon ranches that they’d be better off working somewhere else. If words weren’t enough, they’d been instructed to use whatever level of persuasion necessary to achieve