The Suspicion

San Joaquin Valley, California

Shenanigans. It’s the word Winnie would have used to describe Johnny and my activities over the last week or two. I'm certain our childhood days as brothers would have been filled with shenanigans. Johnny would have helped me keep Winifred busy. Now, my brother and I spend our time working the ranch peppered with moments of arguing and disagreeing. The arguing is often a result of his temper. My stubbornness is the root of the disagreements. Perhaps, if we had grown up together, we would have balanced each other out. Missed opportunities. Lost time. I believe this is the reason when an opportunity such as the Sharpshooters Jamboree presents itself, Johnny and I enjoy recapturing the lost time as brothers growing up. Acting like a kid now and again is very therapeutic for the soul.

And then there is Kinsey. It appears my cousin is providing some of the balance which has been lacking between Johnny and myself. The concern with her welfare and happiness has become our shared interest. She is sometimes a worry; one I shouldn't have but do with no regrets. In the beginning, I balked at Murdoch’s suggestion to know Kinsey better. Now, it’s hard to remember when I wasn't tripping over her. Again, time lost but grateful we can make up for it now.

I suppose I should feel slight guilt making her a clueless accomplice in the plan to unseat Howie Aspinwall as this year’s champion. When the guilt increases I think of her statements of convenience, tea party tantrums, and jail time. I shake my head and smile. It helps to put the situation into perspective. God provided her with a devilish nature so when our tall tale becomes common knowledge Kinsey will see the humor in it all. If she doesn't, I'm sure she will find a way to get even.

Murdoch, on the other hand, will not be as understanding. Hoodwinking Howie will be mildly tolerated, but involving Kinsey in our scheme will not sit well with our father. Keeping Murdoch away from the competition would be ideal, but so far Johnny and I have not come up with a viable plan.

“I won’t be able to attend the Sharpshooters Jamboree this year.”

At Murdoch’s announcement, the brothers’ heads snapped up from their focus on the evening meal as Kinsey lamented.

“No! You promised to be there.”

Teresa joined in. “Oh Murdoch, you enjoyed it so much last year.”

The patriarch nodded. “I was looking forward to going and Kinsey I’m sorry I have to break my promise to you, but it can’t be helped. A meeting of the Cattlemen's Association in Sacramento was suddenly scheduled for the same day. I need to leave tomorrow.”

Glancing over at his brother, Scott added his thoughts. “Sir, Johnny and I wish you would reconsider. It would be a shame not having you at the Jamboree.”

“Agreed, big brother. Won't be the same without you, Murdoch. You always told us family first.”

Murdoch frowned. “True. I have said that. Perhaps I wouldn’t have to attend…"

Shifting in his seat, Scott cleared his throat. “However, I believe you have also mentioned how important responsibility is. I think we can all understand why you need to be in Sacramento and your responsibility to the Cattlemen’s Association. I mean...there’s always next year.”

Murdoch donned a warm smile. “Thank you, Scott...Johnny...I really do need to be at the meeting. I appreciate your support.” Placing his hand on Kinsey’s, Murdoch winked. “And sweetheart, I promise I will make this up to you.”

Leaning on the corral fence, the two brothers discussed the turn of events while listening to the distant soft mooing blend with the other sounds of the night.

Johnny placed his chin on his crossed arms resting on the top rail. “You think it’s suspicious the old man is conveniently leaving for Sacramento tomorrow?”

“I do.”

“What do you think it means?”

“Well, brother, I think it means we are incredibly lucky or terribly stupid.”

“I would like to put our money on incredibly lucky.”

“Agreed.”

“What are you two talking about?”

Scott turned around, scowling. “We are talking about rude little girls who sneak around and listen in on other people’s conversation.”

“Oh.” Kinsey climbed up to sit on the fence rail. “Know of any?”

“Correction. Rude, cheeky little girls. And isn’t it past your bedtime?”

“Honestly, Scott. I don’t have a designated bedtime.”

“You don’t?” The older cousin pulled out his watch. “Well, let me correct this oversight right now. It’s late. Go to bed.”

Kinsey sighed. “I’m sad Murdoch will miss the Jamboree.”

“Help me here, Johnny. Did you understand what I just said or was I speaking in tongues?”

Johnny grinned and rubbed the back of his neck. "Maybe you were spoutin’ off in that Latin of yours.”

Kinsey giggled. “Latin. That’s funny. But seriously, aren’t you two disappointed Murdoch won’t be at the competition?”

“Of course we are, Freckles.”

“Well, I think he could be persuaded to stay. I’m going to talk to him.”

Negative responses filled the air.

“Now half-pint, I know you’re disappointed too, but making the old man feel guilty about leaving isn’t fair.”

“Johnny’s right, Kinsey. Our father has a responsibility to represent the cattlemen in this area. Sometimes sacrifices have to be made.” Scott helped his cousin down from her perch. “So, no conversations with Murdoch about the Jamboree, understood?”

Kinsey’s smile dipped in honey was visible in the moonlight. “Understood.”

“Good.” Pointing his thumb over his shoulder towards the hacienda, Scott returned the smile. “Goodnight.”

The brothers remained silent until they watched Ricochet Rose disappear through the side door and observe a light in her bedroom window.

“You think that young lady is up to somethin’, big brother?”

“I do.”

“So now what?”

“We consider putting our money on terribly stupid.”