#fairfield stables

[heartlandians]

Photo by: Dave Marushy

#heartland #on set #behind the scenes #sign #set design #dave marushy #fairfield stables #logo #fairfield

[ammg-old2]

In the early 19th century, sailors making their way to Providence, Rhode Island, depended on the signal of the Warwick Neck Light to safely find their way. While it no longer carries the navigational significance it once did, the 51-foot tower continues to preside over Narragansett Bay from its clifftop perch. 

Now, this historical property’s dramatic views could be yours.

This year, the General Services Administration (GSA) will give away six of the historic beacons, including the Warwick Neck Light, at no cost. An additional four will be sold via public auction. The goal of the transfers is to preserve the historic buildings, even as technology renders them obsolete.  

For hundreds of years, lighthouses have welcomed travelers to the shores of the United States. However, the advent of navigation technologies like GPS has left many of the shore’s sentinels without a practical purpose. Since the passage of the National Historic Lighthouse Preservation Act in 2000, the GSA has been transferring ownership of lighthouses “no longer critical to the U.S. Coast Guard’s mission needs” to groups willing to preserve them, according to a statement from the agency.

“People really appreciate the heroic role of the solitary lighthouse keeper,” says John Kelly of the GSA’s office of real property disposition to Mark Pratt of the Associated Press (AP). “They were really the instruments to provide safe passage into some of these perilous harbors which afforded communities great opportunities for commerce, and they’re often located in prominent locations that offer breathtaking views.”

At many lighthouses, upkeep is challenging: Two of the structures up for auction, the Penfield Reef Lighthouse in Fairfield, Connecticut, and the Stratford Shoal Light in the middle of the Long Island Sound, are accessible only by boat.

“They’re such unusual reflections of our history that it takes a certain kind of person who wants to be a part of that,” Robin Carnahan, administrator of the GSA, tells the New York Times’ Michael Levenson.

For now, the lighthouses won’t be available to just anyone. The GSA is first offering them at no cost to federal agencies, state and local governments, nonprofits, educational agencies and community development organizations. To be eligible, interested buyers must be able to maintain the historic property and allow the public to access it. More than 80 lighthouses have found a new owner—and stable future—through this process so far, according to the GSA.

Several of the lighthouses up for grabs this year are already under the care of nonprofits, which can apply to continue their work, Kelly tells the AP. For example, the Nobska Lighthouse in Falmouth, Massachusetts is maintained by the Friends of Nobska Light, which has applied for the transfer of ownership, according to the Cape Cod Times’ Zane Razzaq.

If no owner is found, the lighthouses will be offered for sale to the public via auction. The GSA has auctioned 70 lighthouses to date, in sales ranging from $10,000 to over $900,000, reports NPR’s Emma Bowman.

Other lighthouses going to auction this year include the Cleveland Harbor West Pierhead Light in Cleveland, Ohio, and the Keweenaw Waterway Lower Entrance Light in Chassell, Michigan. The list of transfer-eligible lighthouses includes Lynde Point Lighthouse in Old Saybrook, Connecticut; Plymouth/Gurnet Lighthouse in Plymouth, Massachusetts; Little Mark Island and Monument in Harpswell, Maine; and Erie Harbor North Pier Lighthouse in Erie, Pennsylvania.

#current events #lighthouses #usa #I WANT A LIGHTHOUSE............

[doppleganger-rental]

This is a house I passed today in Fairfield Township. This isn’t some rundown, poor area either. This is a very stable, middle-class neighborhood. So many houses in Ohio want you to know exactly where they stand. And they are dying for you to call them on it. These assholes have always existed, but it seems as though Trump was the turning point where people started to flaunt their racism and anger.

#me #fuck trump #fuck racism

[alchemist-of-blight-a]

Given from what he had gathered from the whispers tickling the edges of his barely stable mind.

One of the other Dwights who had the misfortune of being converted into killers against their own will was the one nicknamed ‘Elf’. The eldest of the bunch, if time was able to be kept here; Talbot had surmised that this particular Dwight Fairfield had been trapped in the Fog for over fifty years. And came with his own brand of punishment, eyes and tongue gouged out that lead him to repeatedly spew blood from his destroyed throat and his eye sockets. Painful spikes had been grown out of him but there was no relief to be made to adapting his body to its new features, being another source of constant pain and made him unable to have a gentle or normal touch on anything; only serving to exact punishment to those on the receiving end of those wicked protrusions.

However, what piqued Talbot’s eyes to rest upon this one for the moment was the way ‘Elf’ navigated his surroundings. He was not truly blind, reacting to Killers and Survivors alike with violence(even if the survivors were subjected to more brutal attacks); as if the Entity had altered their personage.

And Elf was also not always feral, he could be coaxed out of it by means of repressive aggression from another party. Like the other Dwight, Fancy; and an unlikely person, the Oni. That latter one was strange enough as it is, being that Elf was a constant source of ire before this sudden change; visiting often to Elf’s part of the campfire and undoing the chains bounding him there after hunts.

Meaning, Talbot had a small window before Fancy and/or the Oni came by to check on Elf. Not that he was afraid of attacks by them, but it would be more of a headache to properly observe the changes transpiring with Elf as the serum took hold.

There was no more lollygagging as he hobbled toward the path leading below, Talbot’s eyes rapidly acclimating to the low light, his steps careful upon the cool stone flooring. The dim flames of candles decorated throughout the dungeon swaying curiously by some unseen breeze. Leading the way to Elf, the Jester; who lay on a bed of sorts, chains clinking against each other with each fidget of their prisoner.

@ask-the-dweets

#ask the dweets #barfs up words

[the-real-tc]

Fic Update! Bad Business: Ch. 12 A Place Called Heartland

Chapter 12:

A Place Called Heartland

***

To the childless wife he gives a home, and gladdens her heart with children.

- Ps. 113

***

[draft]

Hudson Hawk: Your Eye on Hudson

A BLOG

Bad Business in Hudson

If you've been following the local news lately — and it's hard not to — you'll be very aware of all the sinister events that have unfolded in our fair town over the past few weeks. Thanks to the dogged efforts of the Hudson Police and that of the neighbouring Calgary Metro Police, however, it looks like justice will prevail in the sordid murder and murder-for-hire cases that have come to light.

To recap: Mrs. Valerie Stanton of Briar Ridge Stables was shot to death while horseback riding up at Lookout Point. Also targeted for death was one Lisa Stillman of Fairfield Stables. One detail that came to light was that the horse Stanton was riding at the time of her death belonged to Stillman. This raised a troubling question: was Stillman the intended target with Stanton being the unfortunate victim of mistaken identity, or was it all a terrible hunting accident?

Nothing could have been further from the truth, as the culprits turned out to be much closer to home; their reasons much more disturbing. Facing various and sundry criminal charges are: Tanner Gunn, Theresa Haywood, Stanley Belmont, Jesse Stanton, and William Ulrich.

I know what you're probably wondering: Is Jesse Stanton related to Valerie Stanton? The answer is a resounding "Yes". He's the son of the same late Valerie Stanton, and Briar Ridge heir. He's been charged with soliciting a killer-for-hire to murder his mother. His reasons for so doing will probably come to light in the upcoming trial, or not. Whatever his reasons, what makes things all the more troubling is he decided to try to kill Lisa Stillman when the insurance payout for his mother's policy was held up due to the police investigation into her death.

Adam paused as he tried to summarize the facts of the case as he knew them. He stared at his laptop screen, wondering now if he had the right to be typing this story in his blog at all. After all, he knew the people involved. By now Georgie must have told the family at Heartland Ranch the Hudson Hawk was his chosen sobriquet.

An unconscious frown tugged at Adam's mouth. His conscience was nagging him. It had been easier when he could hide behind the anonymity of a screen name; he could pretend there was some distance between himself and the subject of his blog posts. Now...

So while he had the blessing of his parents to continue this blogging endeavour, Adam closed the file without saving it. Instead, he decided to check with Alberta Fish and Wildlife to see if they had anything new to report about the elusive bear that had been implicated in the attack on Herring and the man whose body he and Georgie discovered at the Dude Ranch. Doubtless when it was eventually found, it would be destroyed. Such would be the fate of any wild animal that targeted humans instead of other wild animals.

***

Monday, May 13, 2019

Somewhere on Highway 2, Due North.

"I'm glad she's finally feeling up to having visitors," Rachel said as Lou navigated the SUV to the hospital.

Lou glanced at her, then chanced a peek back at Ben, who was staring out the window at the passing scenery, seemingly lost in his own thoughts.

"It was driving me crazy having to wait," Rachel continued. "I still can't wrap my mind around everything that's happened. It's like some bizarre dream I'm waking up from. Well, nightmare is more like it. Thank God it's over."

"I can't believe everything that's happened, either," Lou quipped, thinking back to the night Amy shot Jesse, and how Chief Parker had been able to tell the rest of the family Lisa was alive.

Rachel's joy at learning her only sister had indeed survived the attempts on her life was tempered by the fact she had been led to believe the opposite.

"I thought I was coming out here to say 'goodbye' to her," Rachel commented, her voice just above a whisper. "I thought I was never going to see her again. And I know I shouldn't be upset the police couldn't tell us the truth right away—to protect her and all that—but I wish..."

"But it's gonna be okay now," Lou said reassuringly, filling in the silence when Rachel did not verbalize the rest of her train of thought. "She'll be so happy to see you two."

The rest of the family had elected to stay back at Heartland for the time being so as not to overwhelm the recovering patient. It was expected Lisa would be discharged within the week, anyway, and Georgie and Katie were already excitedly making plans for a 'Welcome Home' party of sorts, and the imminent arrival of Aunt Evelyn.

From his position in the backseat, Ben quietly spoke up: "I keep going over in my mind the time I spent at Briar Ridge. I remember being jealous of Jesse Stanton at the time because of all the 'toys' he had. He seemed to have anything and everything he wanted. I remember thinking how much I'd love to have a Ducati like his, and how my parents' splitting up meant I might be able to guilt one or both of them into getting me one. Then I thought, hey, maybe my rich aunt could. What she did buy was jumps for Red so I could practice at Heartland. It took me days to finally thank her. Days. What a shallow, ungrateful idiot I was.

"To think... to think Jesse was riding that same damned bike when he shot my aunt..."

"For what it's worth, Ben," Rachel eventually uttered with a smirk, "There's no way I would have been giving you a Ducati back then, no matter how guilty I felt about the divorce, and neither would your Aunt Lisa."

***

South Calgary Health Campus

Lou tapped her knuckles lightly on the door to Lisa's room.

"Yeah, come on in," Jack called from within.

Upon hearing this response, Lou let Ben and Rachel go ahead of her. Despite expecting this visit from her family, Lisa felt a lump forming in her throat at the sight of her sister and nephew, and instant tears flooded her eyes. Rachel crossed the floor quickly to her sister. Lisa readily received the gentle but fervent hug that lasted several seconds.

"Hey, Rachel," Lisa uttered. "Thanks for coming. I'm so glad to see you."

"I thought I'd lost you," Rachel murmured, voice choked with emotion as her eyes brimmed.

"I know," Lisa responded as Rachel released her. "I'm sorry. You know I never wanted to put you—any of you—through that. But the decision to keep you in the dark wasn't mine. I never wanted to cause you any grief—"

"We're just glad you're going to be okay, Aunt Lisa," Ben put in hurriedly, also approaching Lisa for a hug of his own.

"Ben," Lisa said warmly while accepting his embrace, "it's so good to see you."

"Ben's right," Rachel said. "All that matters is you're going to be okay. The people who did this to you are in custody and you're still with us. That's what's important. Oh, my goodness, let me look at you..."

Rachel spent a few moments taking in the bandage that still graced the left side of Lisa's forehead, and then noticed the sling on her arm. What she could not see beneath the hospital gown were the sutures sealing the incision where the chest tube had been inserted, and the additional bandage covering the patched-up bullet wound.

Shaking her head, Rachel said, "I'm so glad you're alive, sis. You look like you've been through hell and back."

"I feel like it, too," Lisa uttered wryly.

Jack rubbed her forearm in a comforting manner at this comment. He could not abide thinking she was in any discomfort.

"Rachel, I'd like you to meet Jack," Lisa said, motioning towards her husband.

"Jack," Rachel said with a wide smile, moving to hug the man her sister married. "At long last, we meet in person. I'm sorry it took something like this to bring us out here."

"Good to finally see you in person, too, Rachel," Jack said heartily, holding her tightly for a few moments before releasing her.

"Hi, Jack," Ben said, reaching over to shake the older man's hand. "It's been a while."

"Yes it has!" Jack rejoined, grasping his step-nephew's hand. "It's good to see you again, man."

"Jack... I want to thank you for being there for my sister when that monster tried to... you know..." Rachel trailed off. "You saved her life."

"Yes, Jack," Lisa said, sending a broad smile in his direction. "My hero..."

Jack did not wish to think about or speak any more of the night he found hitman Earl McCann trying to suffocate Lisa, so he quickly shifted the conversation to a more mundane topic.

"Well, I guess Aunt Evelyn should be getting in soon?" he asked, doing his best to sound upbeat about it.

"Yes, Grandpa," answered Lou, also sensing his discomfort about the former subject. "Her flight gets in tomorrow night."

"Oh, Aunt Evelyn," Lisa groaned, closing her eyes. "She'll never forgive me for putting her through all this!"

"Of course she will," Rachel rebutted. "I talked to her yesterday. Lisa, all she cares about is that you're alive and safe. You said it yourself: the decision to keep what was going on confidential wasn't in your hands. You were at death's door at the time, for heaven's sake! Nobody's blaming you."

At this, Lisa nodded. "Thanks, Rach. I needed to hear that."

"Anytime," Rachel said. "Someone's got to knock some sense into you."

"Right," Lisa said. "And thank you for not making cracks about my 'hard head'."

"Oh, rats! That was going to be my next joke," said Rachel, feigning disappointment.

"Well, I, for one, am glad for your 'hard head', Lis," Jack said with a small smile. He traced a thumb near the bandage below her hairline, once again so grateful the weapon Jesse had used was not as deadly as he intended it to be.

***

A Couple Days Later

Heartland Ranch

"They're here!" Katie cried excitedly, rushing from the porch into the house upon seeing Jack and Lisa pulling up into the yard.

"We're home, Lis," Jack said, putting the truck in park.

"Hmm," Lisa murmured, slowly peeling open her eyes. She had not intended to fall asleep during the drive home, but too many nights of poor sleep in the hospital meant her body craved rest. Jack's steady driving and the purr of the truck's engine proved to be a fairly good natural sedative.

"Wow, how long was I out?" she asked.

"About half an hour," Jack chuckled. "I didn't realise my company was that boring."

"Oh, you," Lisa said, realising he was jesting. Now that she was coming to full awareness after her brief nap, she finally noticed the yard was not quite as empty as it normally was. "Um, Jack... What's with all the cars and trucks..?"

"You have a lot of people who wanted to welcome you home, Lis," Jack explained. "Come on. Let's get you inside."

Jack opened the door on Lisa's side and carefully eased her down. "Slow and steady, now," he advised, gingerly supporting her on the way to the house.

Though she was feeling miles better than when she first woke in the hospital, Lisa allowed Jack this expression of care for her well-being. After all, she knew first-hand how challenging it could be when the person you loved most was resistant to help of any sort.

Almost as soon as she entered the house, Lisa was met by Evelyn.

"Darling," the older woman uttered, taking her niece's face in her hands before hugging her tenderly. "I'm so relieved you weren't taken from us like that... When Jack called me... oh, I thought my heart wouldn't be able to endure it. But you're here. It's a miracle."

"I'm so sorry I had to put you through that, Auntie," Lisa said sincerely.

"Nonsense," Evelyn stated flatly. "Lou and Rachel explained everything. The police did what they had to do to keep you safe and to flush out the guilty parties."

"Then I'm so glad you understand," said Lisa with relief.

"Jack, don't be a stranger," Evelyn chided, at last noticing him. "Come here. I want to kiss the man who saved my niece's life."

"Hello, Evelyn," Jack said, allowing her to give him a peck on the cheek.

Evelyn leaned in to Lisa. "Doesn't he ever shave, darling?" she asked in a low voice, though Jack managed to hear, anyway.

"Only when the mood strikes him," Lisa answered with a chortle, patting Jack's face playfully. "But I love him, anyway."

"Yes," Evelyn said seriously. "And he loves you. And that's really all that matters, isn't it?"

Tim approached just then. "Everybody's waiting in the living room," he announced, somewhat impatiently, then amended his tone. "Is Lisa okay?"

"I'm fine, Tim," Lisa replied. "I just didn't expect something like this when I got home."

"Let's go," Evelyn said perkily. "Can't keep your well-wishers waiting."

Lisa sank into the middle of the couch, deeply touched by the gathering of dear family and friends that afternoon. She was further impressed by the efforts Katie and Georgie put in to decorating the space to enhance the celebratory mood of her return home.

"Do you like what we did, Lisa?" asked Katie with expectant enthusiasm, grinning widely. Georgie stood by, also waiting to hear what Lisa would say.

"It's beautiful, both of you," Lisa responded, taking in the large 'WELCOME HOME, LISA' banner, streamers, balloons, and cheery tea lights. "This was so very thoughtful of you. So special."

Heartened by this praise, Katie zipped over to where Peter stood with Lou and happily told them that Lisa loved her handiwork.

Everyone took time to express to Lisa their happiness that she was going to be okay after her brushes with death. But there were two people in particular Lisa knew she was more than obliged to see and to publicly commend.

"Ty; Scott," Lisa spoke up, grabbing the attention of everyone. The two veterinarians looked uncomfortable under the sudden scrutiny of the others.

"I wouldn't be here if it weren't for your quick actions that day out on the road," said Lisa. "I don't remember any of it, but I'm eternally grateful you stopped and helped."

"Of course, Lisa," Ty said.

"We would have stopped for anyone in distress, Lisa," Scott added. "It just so happened we knew you."

Neither man was able to say anything further, as memories of that incident were still difficult and disturbing.

"We're just glad you made it, Lisa," Ty said.

"Right," Scott said in agreement.

"Thank you, both of you," Lisa said, once again fighting back tears.

An hour or so slipped by. Lisa could feel her energy starting to wane; friends such as Caleb, Jen, Mitch, and Scott made their departure. At length, only the family remained in the living room.

Before it got to be too late, and before Lou lost her nerve, there was something she had to get off her chest. "I know we don't always see eye-to-eye, Lisa," Lou said tentatively, "but the truth is you're very special to me, and to all of us here. It felt like losing my Grandma Lyndy and my mother all over again when we thought the worst had happened to you..."

Lou suddenly could not continue.

"I felt the same way, Lisa," Amy put in. "After my miscarriage, and after everything you shared with me, I was devastated at the prospect I was facing another personal loss... but you're here, and I'm so glad."

"And I..." Georgie started, but was unsure if she could continue. She looked to her mother, who nodded some encouragement. "I didn't know what to think of you when I first met you, Lisa. I thought you were some rich snob who was going to take Jack's time and attention away from me—"

"Oh, Georgie, honey..." Lisa murmured.

"I never got to say I was sorry for that," Georgie went on in a rush. "And Lisa, I'm sorry for all the mean things I said about you. I'm so sorry. I-I never knew my grandparents or my great-grandparents, for that matter, but you've been everything I could have ever wanted in a great-grandmother, and more."

"Thank you for that," Lisa said, eyes misting, looking at the family that had been grafted onto her heart. "Thank you all. And I want you to know I feel the same way. You know, I had a full life before I met Jack. A life I thought I loved. I thought I was living my dream life. But I look back now and see I didn't realise how sad and empty my heart was. I love you all very much. My life and my heart are full now."

***

Later that Evening

Dinnertime was over. Jack helped settle an exhausted Lisa into bed where she dropped off to sleep in minutes. It was early still, and after all the social activity of the day, Jack decided he needed to clear his head for a bit, so he brewed a cup of tea and escaped to the porch.

He had been there only a few minutes when he heard the sure creak of the door. Someone was coming outside and he turned expectantly to see who it was.

"There you are," Rachel said to Jack, softly closing the screen door while exiting the house.

"Hi, there," Jack said amiably from his position on the porch bench. "Have a seat."

"Thank you," Rachel said, and joined him. A few seconds later, she added: "It's every bit as lovely here as Lisa and Ben described, Jack."

Jack merely nodded.

"We haven't had a chance to really talk yet," said Rachel.

"No, we haven't," Jack said in agreement, though he wondered what Rachel might want to talk about.

"It's years too late, but I want to thank you for offering to put Ben up when I was going through my divorce," Rachel said. "At first, I wasn't thrilled with the idea when Lisa told me that 'plans had changed'; that he wasn't going to be at Fairfield; that he was going to be boarding at some place called 'Heartland'. But after Ben got over his own issues, he admitted he actually didn't mind this place so much, and he was sorry he didn't appreciate it enough at the time."

Jack nodded again, thinking back to how sullen Ben had been in those days. "Divorce is never easy on anyone, especially when there's kids in the mix," he said, remembering some of the ways Lou and Amy struggled to cope in the wake of Tim and Marion's divorce.

"I love my sister to bits, Jack," Rachel said. "She's my big sister, you know? I idolized her growing up. I was relieved she would be the one to take over the family business because I sure didn't want to be responsible for it. She seemed to be happy when she married Dan and moved to the U.S., but we both know how that all turned out. That time in her life changed her, Jack, and not for the better. I wish only happiness and love for her, and I'm so glad you're in her life, because it's clear you're the one who can provide those things for her."

"Well, I'm glad she's in my life, too," Jack admitted, though that hardly covered the length and the breadth and the height of things when it came to expressing how he felt about his wife.

"I don't know what fair wind blew you two together," Rachel said, "but I pray you two stick together."

"That's the plan," Jack said, thinking back to that evening at the Open House when he first laid eyes on Lisa Stillman. Never in a million years would he have guessed what the future would bring him after that chance encounter.

"You wouldn't happen to have a brother who's just like you out there somewhere, eh, Jack?" Rachel said with a laugh.

"No, no. Just me," Jack responded with a smile and a quick laugh of his own. "I think they broke the mold when they made me."

Rachel looked over at him, seeing his features in the light streaming from the kitchen window. "I think you're right about that, Jack. My sister is a very lucky woman."

"I think I am the lucky one," Jack said with sincerity. How many people get a second chance at love in their lives?

"Yeah..." Rachel said. "Well, goodnight, Jack. Thanks for loving my sister the way you do. You've saved her life in more ways than you'll ever know."

The younger Stillman sister leaned over and gave Jack a kiss on the cheek.

"Goodnight, Rachel," Jack replied.

***

Epilogue

#heartland #heartland fanfiction #my fanfiction #Bad Business #A Heartland Murder Mystery #Chapter 13 #A Place Called Heartland #Adam Parker #Lou Fleming #Ben Stillman #Lisa Stillman #Jack Bartlett #Tim Fleming #Aunt Evelyn #Amy Fleming #Ty Borden #georgie fleming morris #katie fleming morris #Scott Cardinal #JISA #Jack and Lisa

[tradedmiami]

SALE IMAGE: Leo Reilly, Robert Hunter & Ann Kelly DATE: 12/14/2023 ADDRESS: 3420 Lake Lynda Drive - Fairfield Inn & Suites MARKET: Orlando ASSET TYPE: Hotel BUYER: Lodgco Hospitality (@LodgcoHospitality) - Ann Kelly SELLER: HG Management BROKERS: Leo Reilly & Robert Hunter - Marcus & Millichap (@MarcusMillichapinc) SALE PRICE: $21,250,000 KEYS: 112 ~ PPK: $189,732 NOTE: Marcus & Millichap has sold a 112-room Fairfield Inn & Suites near the University of Central Florida in Orlando for $21.25 million. Lodgco Hospitality, based in Grand Rapids, MI, acquired the hotel and plans a $1.9 million post-closing renovation, highlighting the resilience of stable hotels in strong Florida submarkets, according to Robert S. Hunter, Senior Vice President at Marcus & Millichap. #Miami #RealEstate #tradedmia #MIA #FairfieldInnandSuites #Orlando #Hotel #LeoReilly #RobertHunter #MarcusandMillichap #HGManagement #LodgcoHospitality #AnnKelly

#Miami #RealEstate #tradedmia #MIA #FairfieldInnandSuites #Orlando #Hotel #LeoReilly #RobertHunter #MarcusandMillichap #HGManagement #LodgcoHospitality #AnnKelly

[rogers-pack]

Custom Corrugated Packaging

Corrugated cardboard primarily consists of pulp material derived from timber, wood chips, and mill waste. It comprises two glued paper sheets, known as liners, with an inner corrugated layer called fluting. This combination creates a stable structure capable of withstanding pressure and weather changes. Corrugated cardboard comes in different types, with the number of layers being the main differentiating factor. Examples include single and double-layer corrugated cardboard. The more layers it has, the greater its stiffness and durability.

Types of Walls in Corrugated Cardboard Corrugated cardboard can have different types of walls, which refer to the arrangement and structure of the fluting and liners. The most common types of walls include:

1. Single Wall: This is the most basic type of corrugated cardboard, consisting of one layer of fluting between two liners. It offers moderate strength and is suitable for lightweight or moderately heavy items.

2. Double Wall: As the name suggests, double wall corrugated cardboard has two layers of fluting sandwiched between three liners. This type of cardboard provides increased strength and is ideal for heavy or fragile items that require extra protection.

3. Triple Wall: Triple wall corrugated cardboard is constructed with three layers of fluting and four liners. It offers maximum strength and durability, making it suitable for extremely heavy or bulky items.

4. Micro flute:  Micro flute corrugated cardboard is characterized by its small flutes, which are usually less than 1/8 inch in height. It is commonly used for packaging small and delicate items, providing enhanced cushioning and protection.

Choosing the right type of corrugated cardboard for your packaging needs depends on factors such as the weight and fragility of the items being transported or stored. Understanding the different types of walls can help you make informed decisions and ensure the safety of your products.

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[blogaarti]

United Kingdom Automotive Plastics Market Insights, Growth, Analysis and Investment Feasibility By 2026

The automotive plastics market is poised for significant growth, driven by stringent road safety regulations, environmental concerns, and the adoption of electric mobility. As a result, the market is projected to make a substantial contribution to the global automotive plastics market, which is estimated to reach a valuation of US$ 68.6 billion by 2026. These findings are reported by Fairfield Market Research, a leading market intelligence firm specializing in automotive analysis.

For More Industry Insights Read: https://www.fairfieldmarketresearch.com/report/automotive-plastics-market

The automotive industry has witnessed remarkable expansion over the past few decades, resulting in increased demand for automotive raw materials. Automotive plastics have emerged as a preferred choice due to their versatility in application and lightweight nature, surpassing traditional materials such as cast iron and steel. In response to government norms aimed at reducing CO2 emissions, enhancing road safety, and meeting consumer demands for improved fuel efficiency, automotive manufacturers are increasingly turning to high-grade plastics for the production of modern vehicles. Automotive plastics not only offer functional benefits but also provide manufacturers with greater control in achieving desired aesthetic and ergonomic requirements.

 According to Fairfield Market Research, the global automotive plastics market is expected to exhibit a stable CAGR of 7.7%, reaching a valuation of US$ 68.6 billion by 2026. This projection highlights significant business opportunities within the global automotive plastics market. Key market players are actively pursuing strategic partnerships, open innovation, and extensive research and development to capitalize on these growth prospects.

 In the United Kingdom, the adoption of automotive plastics is witnessing substantial growth across various applications. With over 39 types of plastics employed in the automotive industry, including polypropylene (PP), polyamide (PA), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyurethane (PU), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), high-density polyethylene (HDPE), and polycarbonate (PC), the market has witnessed significant growth in the utilization of PP plastic. In 2020, PP plastic demonstrated robust growth due to its applications in interiors, exteriors, and under-the-hood components. The PP plastic market is projected to reach a valuation of US$ 13.5 billion by 2026, displaying a promising CAGR of 7.8%. Notably, the under-the-hood segment is expected to be the fastest-growing application category, driven by favorable government regulations and consumer preferences for lightweight and fuel-efficient vehicles. The high-temperature properties of PP plastic make it suitable for under-the-hood components, which are anticipated to witness a significant upsurge during the forecast period. Automotive plastics are also used in upholstery, interior trims, exterior parts, fuel systems, powertrain components, instrumental panels, dashboard, bumper, air-conditioning systems, and lighting.

 Leading key industry players in the automotive plastics market include SABIC, BASF SE, LyondellBasell Industries N.V., Borealis AG, Covestro AG, LG Chem, LANXESS AG, INEOS, Asahi Kasei Corporation, Celanese Corporation, and Koninklijke DSM N.V. These industry leaders are driving innovation and contributing to the growth and development of the automotive plastics industry.

 For More Information Visit:  https://www.fairfieldmarketresearch.com/

#United Kingdom automotive plastics #United Kingdom automotive plastics market #United Kingdom automotive plastics market size #United Kingdom automotive plastics market trends #United Kingdom automotive plastics market share #automotive industry #automotive products #automotive plastics market analysis #automotive plastics market growth #automotive plastics market demand #automotive plastics market trends #fairfield market research

[fairfieldmarketreports]

Mexico Carbon Black Market Demand, Size and Growth Opportunity 2021-2025

The carbon black market in Mexico has become an integral part of the country's modern automotive culture, revolutionizing the performance and longevity of tires. With carbon black reinforcement, tires now have the capability to travel significantly more miles compared to older tires, resulting in increased durability and reduced frequency of replacements. This transformation in the automotive industry has contributed to the remarkable growth of the carbon black market, which was valued at US$17.4 billion in 2018 and is projected to reach US$23.6 billion by 2025, with a healthy compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.5% between 2021 and 2025, according to a recent study conducted by Fairfield Market Research.

Access Full Report: https://www.fairfieldmarketresearch.com/report/carbon-black-market    

Carbon black, a fine black powder composed of elemental carbon, is primarily manufactured through the partial combustion and pyrolysis of low-value oil residues derived from coal or crude oils. The furnace black process accounts for over 95% of carbon black production globally. Its versatile properties make it a vital element in the production of numerous products used in everyday life, particularly those requiring a strong and deep black color. Carbon black is commonly used as a reinforcement agent in rubber and non-rubber applications, as well as a pigment, conductive or insulating agent, rheology modifier, and UV stabilizer.

Tires represent a key consumer segment in the global carbon black market, with the tire industry alone accounting for over 70% of the global demand in 2019. In Mexico, the increasing disposable incomes and expanding economic activities have led to higher vehicle ownership rates and a surge in the demand for carbon black in the tire industry. The adoption of high-performance and premium tires, as well as tire pressure monitoring systems, has further bolstered this demand. Additionally, the growth of the transportation industry, including the rise of electric vehicles, shared transportation, and driverless technology, is expected to fuel the tire replacement market, providing lucrative opportunities for the carbon black market in Mexico.

Apart from tires, carbon black finds extensive usage in industrial rubber goods, including mechanical rubber goods (conveyor belts, hoses, gaskets, and seals) and automotive rubber parts (anti-vibration parts, sealant systems, wiper blades, and fascia). Specialty carbon black, a niche segment within the carbon black market, is witnessing significant growth due to its applications as a black pigmenting, conductive, and UV stabilizing agent in paints, printing ink toners, plastics, batteries, wires and cables, sealant systems, and solid carbons.

In Mexico, the dominance of the carbon black market is expected to continue in the Asia Pacific region, which accounted for over 60% of the global demand in 2019. The region benefits from lower production costs due to the availability of low-priced feedstock and lower labor rates. China, in particular, is the largest producer of carbon black globally, accounting for more than 40% of the total production.

While Europe is anticipated to exhibit stable demand for rubber and mechanical rubber goods carbon black, the region is experiencing rising demand for specialty carbon black, particularly in the form of conductive additives for paints, plastics, inks, and electric vehicle batteries. Specialty carbon black plays a crucial role in supporting the EU's "Smart and Sustainable Mobility Strategy," which aims to have 30 million electric vehicles on the roads by the end of the decade.

To meet sustainability goals and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, companies in the carbon black market are actively focusing on cleaner and renewable sources for production. Technological advancements and the integration of renewable energy into the production process are becoming key priorities for industry players. Monolith Materials, for example, has announced significant investments in its carbon black production, utilizing proprietary technology to convert natural gas into carbon black while reducing emissions by up to 1 million tons annually.

As the carbon black market continues to thrive and revolutionize the automotive industry, Mexico remains a significant player in this global phenomenon. With its strong demand for carbon black in tire manufacturing and the growing adoption of specialty carbon black, Mexico's market is poised for sustained growth and prosperity.

Web: https://www.fairfieldmarketresearch.com/Email: [email protected]

#carbon black #Mexico Carbon Black Market #carbon black market #market research #chemical

[intlschnursing]

Benefits of studying nursing school

Most people considering a nursing degree may wonder about the benefits of studying nursing. Studying nursing has many positive aspects. Above all, it offers graduates a broad and stable career path and gives students more work experience than many other programs. Vallejo Cna School provides the students with a wide range of scientific and medical knowledge while simultaneously offering the opportunity for specialisation.

The students' stable job path is one of the most obvious advantages of studying nursing. Nurses are always in demand because people's health needs are independent of the country's economic climate. In addition to the constant availability of nursing jobs, the supply of jobs at any given time is incredibly diverse. For example, a nurse may find work in a local hospital or as part of a medical aid program in a faraway country. Your job consists of performing routine medical procedures, being an educator, assisting forensic teams, or many other options.

Another benefit of studying from Vallejo Nursing School is that almost all nursing programs require students to complete many clinical hours in a hospital, clinic, or other medical facility. This requirement allows students to gain significant work experience before completing their studies. This will enable a better entry into the labor market for the nursing profession. In addition, these clinical hours allow students to "try it out" before fully committing to a career in nursing and to pursue an alternative course of study if they realize that nursing is not a good option. Give students a chance.

Those who are deeply interested in scientific and medical subjects such as biology, anatomy, and pharmacology will find that one of the benefits of studying nursing is that it provides a broader knowledge of these subjects. Of course, people interested in something other than this kind of information may consider it a defect. For some students, one of the biggest benefits of studying nursing is that many colleges and universities offer undergraduate nursing programs in various formats. This usually means that a nursing program can be found near a person's home. In addition, nursing students can attend school full-time or part-time, during the day, at night, or on the weekend. As a result, Solano Nursing Program fits easily into today's lifestyle.

Nursing is a fulfilling and rewarding job.

It is no secret that nurses in most countries are trusted, valued, and respected. It is true. Nurses are essential for the healthcare system to function correctly. They can help administer medications and treatments, support patients in managing physical and emotional pain, and comfort worried family members and caregivers.

There is a deep sense of satisfaction in being a nurse because you get instant feedback on how your work affects the well-being of so many people. Nursing Schools in Fairfield Ca allow you to relate to others and learn from their life stories and struggles.

Nurses enjoy job security and stability.

There is a high demand for nursing jobs. In many countries, although many students have chosen this academic and professional path, professional positions in nursing still need to be filled. You will have the opportunity to provide detailed information and learn more about the division and its scheme!

[jacodmartinus]

Weight Loss Management Program in Fairfield, New Jersey

If you’re looking for a weight management solution that focuses equally on weight loss and stable weight management for the long term, Ideal Protein Protocol may be just what you need. Dr. Lacara has helped families and people of all ages from Fairfield, New Jersey. Call us at 973.826.0440. http://www.continuumatmecca.com/services-benefits/weight-loss

[heartlandians]

Throw back to some horse jumps we did back in season 13. Photos by: Simon Daykin

#heartland #behind the scenes #season 13 #jumps #simon daykin #fairfield stables #logo #fairfield

[thehorsedispatch]

New Post has been published on https://horsetoloan.com/heartland-tv-show/jessica-steen-lisa-stillman-heartland/

Jessica Steen Lisa Stillman Heartland

Jessica Steen, Lisa Stillman – Heartland

Jessica Steen is the actress who plays Lisa Stillman, a character who is part of the Heartland family. She is an integral character who is part of the ranch and the show from the get-go. She does spend a good chunk of her storyline overseas, but her travels never keep her from coming home. She first appears in season 1, episode 3, and dates Jack Bartlett off and on.

After their relationship goes on for a while, she marries him in season 7, episode 18. Lisa owns Fairfield Stables, a horse breeding operation. When she marries Jack, this becomes a turning point in her life and she is able to become a more caring and supportive member of the family.

The actress, Jessica Steen, who plays Lisa is a Canadian actress and producer. She was born in Toronto in 1965 to the actress Joanna Noyes and her actor and director father Jan Steen. Read on to learn more about Jessica Steen!

Jessica Steen Started Acting at 8 Years Old

Jessica was involved in show business very early in life, even though her parents warned her about the industry due to their own experience. One of her very first roles was in a McDonald’s commercial! After that, she began to book many more commercials. When she was 8, Jessica made her TV debut. She appeared in the kid’s show Sunrunners, where her mother also had a role!

This was when Jessica was also diagnosed with petit mal epilepsy and started her recovery journey. She later grew out of the condition and was able to have a normal adult life.

When Jessica was in school, she treated acting as a hobby and did some of the work to get a bit of pocket money. She thought of acting as a family business due to her parent’s jobs, too. Her first movie role came about in 1989 when she starred in the musical Sing. She acted in Canadian TV series and American telefilms until 1991. Then, she moved to New York and filled in for Noelle Beck’s maternity leave on the soap opera Loving. A struggle with finding roles in New York led Jessica to later move to Los Angeles. She commutes from Los Angeles now for her acting jobs, if they are located in other areas or countries. Some of Jessica’s most notable or recognizable roles include Captain Power and the Soldiers of the Future, Flashpoint, Armageddon, and, of course, the Heartland TV series!

Jessica Steen Is an Award Winning Actress

Jessica Steen won a Gemini award for Best Actress for her portrayal of Nora in a movie called Small Gifts. The Gemini Awards are basically the equivalent of the Emmys in Canada. She also received two more nominations for Geminis. These were in 1988 for her role in the Captain Power episode called Judgment, and then in 2010 for her work on the Canadian cop drama Flashpoint in season 2. 

Jessica was asked her favorite role during a fan Q & A interview hosted by CBC, but she had trouble only choosing one! She said that her top four were her roles in Armageddon, Small Gifts, Homefront, and Striker’s Mountain. When looking at the overall experience, though, her pick was her role on Heartland, of course! 

Jessica Steen Originally Auditioned for the Role of Maggie on Heartland

When Jessica first auditioned for the Heartland series, she was actually interested in playing Maggie. Maggie, of course, is the owner of the diner called Maggie’s on the show, and she is also Amy’s mother Marion’s best friend. Jessica certainly would have made a wonderful Maggie! However, she was instead asked to audition for the role of Lisa, which we know that she got! She ended up really falling in love with the character of Lisa Stillman.

Jessica felt that she had a lot in common with her character. Both of them have passions for animals and for travel. Plus, they also love to spend time outdoors and can sometimes be too helpful! They both have a fondness for Jack, too. Jessica has described her character as “fun and light and keen and concerned and loving to a cloying degree”.

These are why she loves to play Lisa Stillman so much. Of course, the awesome cast and crew on the Heartland show make the experience that much better, too!

Jessica Steen Grabs Every Opportunity to Ride on the Show

As Jessica grew up in downtown Toronto, she, unfortunately, did not have a lot of opportunities to spend time with horses. When she landed the role of Lisa, she had to take weekly riding lessons in preparation for all of Lisa’s horseback and horse-related scenes. It was important that she execute them accurately, but safely, too! 

Even though Jessica was not an equestrian growing up, she loves being on horseback now! She says that one of her most memorable scenes is the cattle drive in season 2 which featured gorgeous scenery and challenging weather conditions to ride and act in. She loves the rides that her character goes on, which is why she is sometimes disappointed that Lisa is not seen riding as often as she used to. 

Jessica has had many years of practice on horseback, but she is still modest about it and about her skills. She does not get to have a lot of equestrian time off of the Heartland set, due to her hectic schedule. She usually only spends time with horses on other horse-focused or western-style shows, like the CBC’s Magic Hour episode High Country. 

“Acting is such a small part of the overall toolkit of success”

Throughout her acting career, Jessica Steen has run into plenty of highs and lows. For example, in the early years of her career, she had to deal with dry spells and struggles to get work. Then, there was the pressure that came with working on big productions such as Armageddon. These experiences taught her to have a backup plan at all times and have multiple projects on the go. 

Having such a busy life does have its advantages, too, though! As an actress, Jessica gets to travel and meet interesting people, all as part of her job. She says that no two days in her life are the same. It must be hard to get bored, in this case! Jessica believes firmly that “variety is the spice of life”. 

She advises aspiring actors to manage their time and money wisely and to also make sure that they learn the business as best they can. Good actors should be able to connect with people and should be good at PR and be confident when auditioning, too. In this day and age, having a good social media presence is also important for the profession.

Jessica recommends doing acting as a hobby first, as she did, and having other streams of income so there is less pressure on yourself. 

She is a perfect example of the truth that acting as a career is not all sparkes and glamour! It also takes plenty of hard work and dedication. Having a mentor in the industry who can help to set you up for success or place you on the right path is worth its weight in gold, too. 

Jessica Steen Loves Hanging Out With Her Co-Stars

One thing that many cast members have said about the Heartland show and set is that it feels like a family! Jessica Steen also loves how close knit the cast and crew is, and has talked about how this makes the show such a great experience. 

She has been able to build close bonds with a number of her co-stars, including Shaun Johnston, who plays Jack Bartlett, and Michelle Morgan, who plays Lou Fleming. Michelle sometimes even comes to Jessica’s home in Los Angeles! In earlier seasons of the show, Jessica also spent a lot of time with Wanda Cannon, who plays Val Stanton. The two have known each other for a very long time. 

Jessica has talked a lot about Shaun, who plays her on-screen love interest! She says that he is dedicated to the show and really supports his fellow actors and artists. Jessica has also said that Shaun is the “heart of Heartland”. He always organizes fundraisers and get-togethers for the cast, and is typically the first to take someone under his wing. In addition to all this, he is a talented musician and a perfectionist, too!

He often plays the guitar for the entertainment of the Heartland cast and crew. 

Jessica Steen is Adept at the Circus Arts

A surprising fact about Jessica Steen, which many people may not be aware of, is that she is a practitioner of the circus arts. She first got into them in 1998 and found them to be addictive. Jessica can do several of the circus arts and do them very well! These include stilt walking and fire twirling. It is often said of her in the media that “she is better at stilts than high heels”!

Jessica Steen is a Passionate Animal Rights Supporter

Animal rights are very important to Jessica. Ever since she was young, she has been a huge animal lover, so she fits right in among the horses on the Heartland set! In fact, Jessica has said herself that many of her favorite moments in her career have involved the scenes or experiences she has had with animals. Because of all this, Jessica has worked to incorporate her passion for animals into her philanthropic efforts and how she gives back to the world and the community. 

All this to say, Jessica Steen is a dedicated animal rights activist!She supports animal rights and is also a passionate environmentalist. One of the things she does to help is to make regular donations to non profit organizations that are dedicated to the preservation of wildlife and nature. Some of the organizations that she supports are the World Animal Protection Charity and the Western Canada Wilderness Committee. Another foundation that Jessica donates to is the David Suzuki Foundation.

This is a science based non profit in Canada that works to protect the environment and is named for the Canadian television presenter David Suzuki.

5 Facts You Didn’t Know About Jessica Steen

We;ve gone over plenty of interesting facts about Jessica Steen in the article above, but we still have a few more for you! Fans of Jessica or of her character Lisa Stillman will be pleased to know some of these little known facts about her and her life.

Jessica has two half siblings.

Jessica is a certified driver. 

She has both Dutch and Scottish ancestry.

Jessica’s family is located all over Canada. Some of her close relations live in Toronto, where she grew up, as well as Vancouver and Montreal.

She has a lot of hobbies in her free time! She spends time with family, doing the circus arts, as a tour guide, and more! 

Related Articles

Does Amy Die in Heartland?

Where is Heartland Filmed?

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Jessica Steen still on Heartland?

Jessica Steen has been a long-running member of the Heartland cast, and over the years, she has gained quite a fan following! Her character, Lisa, was the shoulder to cry on for many of the family members who are going through tough times. She also helped Lou to organize her wedding. Luckily, Lisa— and by extension, the actress, Jessica Steen— is still on Heartland and will likely have a part on the show for seasons to come. 

Is Jessica Steen married?

Jessica Steen is not married, and she has never been married, either. Currently, she is not in a relationship, either. As a busy actress, she does not have much time to devote to her dating life! However, she has probably had multiple relationships. She also was rumored to be dating her co star on the drama series Homefront, David Newsom. In an interview with Rave It UP TV, she mentioned a past boyfriend. Despite all of this she has never made a public statement. 

[debamonk]

Fairfield stables. Want to see more of Jack and Lisa working together at her stables.

[bellwestmaintenance]

So this year started off busy with the owners of Fairfields Crisps requiring a stable block built from a remaining old brick built storage shed.

This is what we had to convert to stables with Carpenter

[the-real-tc]

Bad Business Ch. 7: Every Breath You Take

Chapter 7

Every Breath You Take

Shooting Victim Identified

Hudson Times—Print Version

May 3, 2019

Nadir Jutley

Hudson Police have released the identity of the motorist shot yesterday on Range Road 292. 53-year-old Lisa Stillman was found unconscious in her SUV by Hudson veterinarians, Drs. Scott Cardinal and Ty Borden at approximately 12:15 p.m., local time.

Stillman was found to be suffering from two gunshot wounds. She was transported by ambulance to the South Calgary Health Campus where she underwent emergency surgery and is currently listed in critical but stable condition.

Police are asking for the public's assistance in the matter. Anyone who may have witnessed anything suspicious on the road at the time of the shooting is asked to call local police or the RCMP. In particular, authorities hope to speak with an individual riding a motorcycle who may have passed Stillman and might be able to provide further details. Thus far, police have no motive or suspects in the attack.

Hudson Chief of Police James Parker expressed his concern for Stillman, and for the safety of citizens of the town. However, he stressed there is no reason to believe there is any danger to the public at large.

Lisa Stillman is the owner of Fairfield Stables, a renowned thoroughbred racehorse breeding facility in Hudson that was established in 1951 by her late father, Matthew Stillman.

• Email: nadir_jutley

The ringing telephone cut through the silence that Friday morning. Jack pulled himself from the kitchen table. The call display indicated it was from the hospital, causing his heart to jump.

"Hello?" he answered after picking up the receiver. "Yes, this is Jack Bartlett."

He listened while the voice on the other line spoke a few words. Amy and Tim watched him carefully, both on edge.

"Thank you," Jack said once he heard everything the other party had to say. "Good-bye."

"Grandpa?" Amy asked, trying to read his expression. "Is everything okay?"

"Yes," Jack answered, his heart exulting and mind spinning with the information he had been longing to hear. "Lisa's awake. She's regained consciousness."

"Oh, Grandpa, that's great news! I'm so happy!" Amy exclaimed. She wrapped her arms around him in happy relief.

"Great news, Jack," Tim said, slapping Jack on the back.

"I've got to get up there," Jack said.

"Of course. I'll take you," Amy said. "Let me just get Lyndy ready. You're still okay to get Lou from the airport, right, Dad?"

"Yeah, sure," Tim said. "You two go on. Tell Lisa I'm happy she's doing better, Jack. God knows what an insufferable bastard you would become if she didn't make it."

Jack just shook his head while a lopsided smile tugged at his mouth. "Shut up, you idiot," he said.

"Just sayin'," Tim quipped, always needing to have the last word.

***

Upon arriving at the hospital, Jack hurriedly returned to the ICU floor. The despair he had felt throughout the sleepless night before had lifted completely. He approached the nurse's desk expectantly. "I'm Jack Bartlett," he announced. "My wife was admitted yesterday. Lisa Stillman."

This nurse, different from the one yesterday, did not have to consult her records.

"Ms. Stillman has been moved from the ICU to another room, Mr. Bartlett."

"You mean she's not here?" Jack asked, disappointed he would be delayed in seeing her.

"No, she's not," the nurse confirmed. "Let me find out for you which floor she's on now, okay?"

A few minutes later, Jack was at last on the correct floor, but he would be disappointed yet again. The nurse on this recovery ward informed him: "She's resting again now, Mr. Bartlett. But you can go sit with her as long as you don't disturb her."

"You go ahead, Grandpa," Amy said while holding onto her sleeping toddler. "Lyndy and I'll wait out here for you for a bit."

Jack patted his granddaughter's shoulder. "Thank you," he said.

***

"Hey, Cowboy..."

Jack jerked his head up at the sound of the thin, wispy voice. Lisa was looking at him through tired, heavy-lidded eyes.

"Lis..." he whispered in awe, thinking he would burst with joy at seeing her conscious again. He had drifted off to a shallow nap while sitting at her bedside thanks to the lack of rest the night before, now all he wanted to do was keep his eyes open to be sure they were not deceiving him.

Jack forced himself not to overwhelm her, so he refrained from peppering her with all the frantic questions that were burning within. He instead sucked in a deep, steadying breath before taking a measured approach. "I am so relieved you woke up. How're you feeling?"

Lisa blinked slowly, as if considering how to answer. "Terrible," she eventually replied, after swallowing a couple times.

"Here, let me get you some water," Jack said quickly, reaching for the cup on the bedside table. He brought the straw to her lips and she drew a quick sip.

"Thanks," she rasped, throat still raw despite taking a drink. He put the cup back after intuiting she was satisfied for the time being.

"Are you in pain?" Jack asked anxiously.

A grimace crossed her face as she nodded in the affirmative. "Head," she muttered. "Arm... and side..."

"I can get the nurse or the doctor," Jack said, already rising up to get someone.

"No," Lisa spoke with more volume. "Don't go... just yet."

"Okay," Jack said, settling back into the chair, brushing her cheek gently to reassure her he was not going anywhere. "I'll just use the call button, then."

"Mm-hmm," she agreed, eyeing Jack as he pressed the device at her side. A few beats of silence passed before she spoke again. "What happened... to me? The doctors haven't told me anything yet... or maybe I was too out of it to remember if they did."

Jack searched her face. The dark circles under her eyes stood in contrast to the frighteningly wan pallor of her skin. "What do you remember?" he asked, hoping to forestall discussion of the trauma she had endured.

She reflected carefully before replying. "I-I was driving to a meeting, wasn't I?"

"Yes," Jack confirmed with an encouraging nod. "You were. Do you remember anything else?"

"I can't quite," she murmured, frowning with the effort of trying to recall the details of that drive. "There was a guy..."

Upon hearing this, Jack stiffened in his seat, pulse quickening. Maybe she would remember. Maybe they would be able to find her shooter and bring him to justice, effectively ending this nightmare. "What 'guy'?"

"On a motorbike," Lisa sighed. "He was trying to pass me on the road. I think he was afraid to risk it... did we have an accident? Did something hit us?"

Jack shook his head.

"Oh, no. Please don't tell me I hit him."

A soft, sad smile formed on his lips at the misery on her face at the thought she might be the one responsible for her current predicament. "No, no," he said to reassure her. "You didn't do anything wrong, Lis."

"Oh. Good." She sighed, blinking in relief to have that fear assuaged. "What, then?"

Jack was spared having to reply when a wiry nurse with short salt-and-pepper hair appeared at the door.

"Is everything okay?" she asked, looking in at the two of them.

"She woke up from her 'nap'," Jack stated.

"Wonderful!" declared the nurse, whose name tag identified her as 'Cheryl'. She strode into the room purposefully, immediately checking Lisa's vitals and asking about her pain levels.

"I have a terrible headache. But... my arm and side... hurt the most," Lisa responded tiredly. "Pain is about a seven or eight out of ten, maybe?"

"Remember there's a tube in your side," Cheryl said, "but I'll get the doctor to see if we can do something about increasing your pain meds to take the edge off—now that you're fully awake."

Lisa nodded. "Okay. Thank you."

"Be right back," the nurse said, smiling at the couple as she departed.

"Do you remember anything else?" Jack prodded when he was sure they were alone again.

"Mm-mm," Lisa mumbled, giving her head a slight negative shake.

Jack could see her lack of recall was frustrating her. He made the decision right then to give her the truth, without any dissimulation.

"Lis," he began slowly, finding it difficult to formulate the words even though he had gone over in his mind a hundred times what he knew about the heinous actions that brought her here. "You went off the road on the way to the meeting. We're not sure exactly what happened or why, but... Someone shot you."

His words struck a chord of distress in her, frazzling her nerves. Her face crumpled in confusion and Jack noticed a perceptible uptick in her heart-rate monitor.

"Shot...?" she uttered fearfully, unable to make sense of this piece of news. "Wh-why? Who would...?"

"We don't know. We were hoping you would be able to tell us something," Jack said, placing a hand over hers in comfort, delicately trying to avoid the I.V. port and lines. "Now, Chief Parker has got people investigating. But it's like I told him: my beautiful wife doesn't have an enemy in the world who would want to do something like this."

"I can't—I don't understand," Lisa said, still not recovered from the shock of Jack's news. "I have no memory of that... I—there must be some mistake..."

"I talked to Chief Parker," Jack said calmly, trying to ground her and bring her some peace of mind. "Like I said, he's got everyone he can looking into this, okay? We're going to catch who did this."

And he'd better pray I don't catch him first, Jack thought to himself.

Lisa sighed and nodded. "Okay."

***

Hudson Police Headquarters

"Chief, the hospital just called," Patterson informed her boss. "Lisa Stillman has regained consciousness."

"That's good news," Jim said. "You and Kavanaugh get up there right away. We need to get her statement about what happened as soon as the doctors will let you speak with her."

"All right," Patterson said. "We're on our way."

***

Lou's hurriedly booked flight from New York was scheduled to arrive early that afternoon at Calgary International Airport. The entire time in the air was spent in dread remembrance of a similar trip years ago. That time, she knew she would be coming home to a dead mother and a comatose sister, the result of an accident that occurred during a crazy rescue mission to save Spartan. Lou wondered what would be awaiting her this time. The shock of hearing that her grandfather's second wife had been shot had still not worn off.

What on earth did you get yourself into, Lisa? Lou questioned silently. This is going to kill Grandpa if you don't make it. I saw what losing Grandma Lyndy did to him, and what it did to him when we lost Mom. So you'd better live. Oh, why is this even happening?

"Dad!" she called out to Tim when she spotted his cowboy-hatted figure waiting for her outside the Arrivals gate.

"Lou, honey," Tim said, giving her a quick hug. "Good news. Lisa woke up. Jack's with her right now."

"Oh, thank goodness!" Lou exclaimed, happy she did not have to ask the question about Lisa's state of health. "I was so worried."

"Yeah, we all were," Tim said as he motioned for her to head to his truck while taking her suitcases. "But it looks like she's going to be okay, so we can probably stop worrying."

"That's a huge relief," Lou said. "Do the police have any idea what happened?"

"The police are clueless," Tim replied gruffly. "No leads except there was 'some guy' on a motorcycle."

"That's too bad," Lou said. "I don't even know what to think about all this."

"Yeah, it's a real mess," Tim said as they reached his truck.

"Dad," Lou began tentatively, biting her lip. "What about Amy? How's she doing?"

"She's better, I think," Tim answered plainly. "She's not as mopey and depressed today, anyway."

"That's good," stated Lou. "I guess things are looking up, then. I don't think this family could take much more, honestly."

"Yeah, it's been rough," Tim said in agreement. "Listen, I've got to stop in at Maggie's on the way home. You mind? It's been overwhelming with everything going on lately."

"You haven't let a couple family crises get in the way of your duties at the diner, have you, Dad?" Lou chided in mock reproach.

"Absolutely not," Tim said. "After all, isn't that why you hired Jen? To make sure things run smoothly while you're away?"

"Yeah, yeah," Lou quipped. "Let's go. I'm tired and I want to call Katie and Peter when I get home so we can arrange for her to come back now that everything is improving."

***

South Calgary Health Campus

"The police are here," Nurse Cheryl announced to Jack and Lisa. "They would like to speak to Ms. Stillman about what happened."

"Don't know how much I can tell them," Lisa said, feeling better now that the pain was back within tolerable levels. "I don't really remember much."

"That's all right. You just do your best, okay?" Jack said encouragingly. "Tell them what you told me, and they'll take it from there."

Lisa nodded and a small sigh escaped her lips. "Okay. I'll try."

Jack stepped out of the room to make way for Detective Kavanaugh and Detective Constable Patterson to enter and to give them some privacy.

"Good afternoon, Ms. Stillman," Kavanaugh said. Both he and Patterson seated themselves so Lisa did not have to strain to look up at them. "I'm sorry we have to meet again under such awful circumstances."

Lisa looked warily at the pair. "Good afternoon," she replied, somewhat guardedly.

"How are you feeling?" asked Patterson.

"Better than I was a couple hours ago. Thank God for good pain meds," Lisa remarked with a sardonic twist of her mouth.

"Good, we're glad to hear that," Patterson said. "Think you can answer our questions about what happened yesterday?"

"I'll try," Lisa replied.

"Thank you," Patterson said kindly. "We appreciate you're willing to talk with us."

"We'd like to go over with you the details—as you can recall them—of yesterday afternoon when you were shot," Kavanaugh said. "Thanks to Drs. Cardinal and Borden, we have some idea, but we're hoping you can fill in the blanks."

"Okay," Lisa said with a slow nod. "What do you want to know?"

"Tell us about the drive in to Calgary," Kavanaugh started. "Did you notice anything strange or unusual during that drive?"

"Yes," Lisa answered after a brief moment of consideration. "Sort of."

"Explain what you mean by 'sort of', please," Kavanaugh said.

"There was someone riding a motorcycle who kept trying to pass," Lisa said.

"Can you describe this person?" asked Kavanaugh.

"Not really," Lisa replied. "The memory of it is hazy right now. I'm pretty sure he was wearing a helmet so I couldn't see his face, and I think he was wearing a black jacket."

"Was there anything else about that jacket that was distinctive? Logos? Patches?"

"No, sorry," Lisa said. "Either I'm not remembering, or there weren't any at all."

"Okay, thanks, Ms. Stillman," said Kavanaugh.

"Do you think you could perhaps tell us what kind of motorcycle he was riding?" Patterson asked.

Lisa shook her head once in the negative. "Honestly, I don't think I could. Sorry. I mean, maybe it was something on the sportier side? My grandson-in-law—that's Dr. Borden—had a Norton, and whatever this guy had didn't look anything like that bike. 'Sleek' is probably a word I'd use, but that is all I could say."

"What about the colour?"

Lisa closed her eyes and tried to remember if she had, in fact, seen anything distinctive about the bike. "Red, maybe?" she finally answered, opening her eyes to look again at Patterson. "I mostly saw it in my mirrors. I can't be positive. I'm sorry."

"All right, thanks for trying," Patterson said, her blue eyes showing a little disappointment. "Tell us instead a little more about your drive to Calgary. Is this something you do on a regular basis? What was your reason for heading there?"

"I belong to a private investors' group. I was heading for a meeting with them."

"Who knew you were going to be attending this meeting?" asked Patterson.

"Well," Lisa began thoughtfully, "besides my husband and our family members at Heartland—maybe a couple of my staff at Fairfield—only the members of the investors' group."

"Is this meeting a regularly scheduled thing?" Patterson asked. "Is there a specific reason your meeting was yesterday?"

"Yes, you see, we've, uh, lost a member recently," Lisa began, sucking in a ragged breath as she remembered Val, wincing slightly at the immediate discomfort in her side this activity brought.

"And who was this member?" asked Kavanaugh.

"The late Val Stanton," Lisa answered. "We were meeting because her son, Jesse, is interested in taking her place in the group. We were going to vote on his membership at this meeting."

This piqued Patterson's interest. "Were all the members keen on Jesse Stanton's admission to your group?"

"Oh, yes," Lisa replied. "It was really just a formality to vote him in. Jesse is fully in charge of Briar Ridge now that Val is gone. He'd like to continue her legacy with the group. Nobody in the group had any problem with that as far as I know."

"When was the last time you heard from Liam Comox?" asked Kavanaugh.

Lisa's brow buckled. "Liam Comox?" she repeated, surprised by the turn this line of questioning had taken. "I haven't seen him in years. Not since I fired him and reported him to the Steward's Office."

Kavanaugh continued: "Has he been in touch with you since? Any phone calls? Threatening letters? Emails?"

"No," Lisa said, wondering how on earth these detectives even knew about her former jockey. "Nothing like that at all."

"Thanks, Ms. Stillman," Kavanaugh said.

Patterson jumped in again. "Ms. Stillman, I'm going to ask a very difficult question now: are you and your husband having any marital issues?"

The shock that registered on her face should have been enough of a clue for the law enforcement officers they had taken the wrong tack, but Lisa responded anyway:

"Most certainly not," she said emphatically.

"I know we touched on this earlier when you spoke to us about Val Stanton's habit of 'flirting' with your husband, but have there been any infidelity issues in the past we should know about, on either side?" Patterson pressed.

"Zero," Lisa said in a clipped tone.

"You and Dan Hartfield were previously married," Kavanaugh stated in a matter-of-fact manner. "Why did that relationship end in divorce?"

"If you're really asking if Jack Bartlett had anything to do with my divorce, the answer is 'no'," Lisa said, trying not to lose her temper. "My relationship with Dan ended because he was a lousy husband and was more interested in what I brought to the table for our business interests. I hadn't even met Jack when I was married to Dan."

"Then would you say your divorce was an amicable one?" asked Patterson.

"Mostly, yes," Lisa replied honestly. "We remained business partners afterwards, and we're still very civil to each other."

"Do you have a will, Ms. Stillman?"

Lisa suspected this question might be coming, but was still taken aback when Det. Kavanaugh asked it.

"Yes, I do," she answered, trying to sound as calm as possible.

"And who's the main beneficiary?"

"My husband, Jack Bartlett."

"How much does he stand to inherit?"

"Everything."

"On paper, you're worth millions in assets, Ms. Stillman," said Patterson. "Let's be frank—"

"Yes, let's, " Lisa said, growing more indignant these officers were insinuating Jack might be the reason she was lying in this hospital bed.

"I want to emphasize right now that you're safe with us, Ms. Stillman, and we can make sure you stay that way if what happened to you is domestic in nature," Patterson said earnestly before asking the next question. "Do you think your husband is behind this attempt on your life?"

"Absolutely not," Lisa stated, her eyes burning like coals. A knot of discomfort bordering on nausea was gathering in the pit of her stomach and her head was starting to pound.

"You seem very confident of that," Kavanaugh said, noting her shift in tone and demeanour. "It has not escaped our notice you're significantly younger than your husband—"

"Look, if you think my husband is some kind of murderous gold-digger," Lisa interrupted tersely, sending both detectives a piercing glare, "let me make something perfectly clear: I am the one who pursued Jack. I am the one who wanted to get married. It took him nearly seven years to ask the right way, but I can assure you he wasn't after my money, and he still isn't. In fact, he is uncomfortable with the notion he'll have to deal with Fairfield if anything happens to me."

"Noted," Kavanaugh commented with a curt nod.

Lisa exhaled in relief the cops were unable to make their suspicions about Jack stick. This respiratory action again resulted in another localized jab of pain in her side.

"Thank you for giving us your honest answers, Ms. Stillman," Patterson said. "Can you think of anyone either in your personal life or your professional life who might want to harm you?"

"None," Lisa said.

"Think carefully, please," Patterson said.

"I'm sorry, I really can't," Lisa responded, losing all patience with this interview. "I just don't think I've ever made someone upset enough to want to do this to me."

Patterson smiled wryly. "All right, thank you for trying. I can see this isn't an easy thing to think about."

"Is that everything, detectives?" Lisa asked, barely hiding her discomfort now. "I'm suddenly feeling really tired and really lousy, and I think my pain meds are starting to wear off."

"We are for now," Kavanaugh said, looking to his partner. "We may have more questions later. Thank you for your cooperation."

"You're welcome," Lisa managed to articulate, though she was now bordering on retching while the headache was beginning to feel like a C-clamp screwed around her skull.

"We wish you a speedy recovery," Patterson said as she and Kavanaugh stood to leave. "If you remember anything else from that day, or if something new occurs to you that you didn't mention, please call us immediately."

"All right," Lisa managed to say.

"You still have our cards?" Kavanaugh asked.

"At my office."

"Here they are again," Kavanaugh said, as the two cops placed them on the bedside table.

"Thanks," Lisa said, not bothering to even look at the contact information as Kavanaugh and Patterson slipped out of the room. All she wanted now was to have Jack with her again and to close her eyes and rest.

They're only doing their jobs, one part of her mind argued. You know they had to ask those questions about Jack. She let out a slow breath in frustrated anger. But Jack would never hurt me! She argued back. But they don't know that, the other side rebutted. Lisa wore a frown as she contemplated this. She hated to think her husband would be the target of a misguided investigation into who had actually tried to end her life. What a complete waste of time and resources if they start hounding Jack. I need to do something about this...

***

Jack watched Kavanaugh and Patterson exit Lisa's room. They're done, he thought in relief.

"I'm heading back in to be with her," he said to Amy. "Thanks for bringing me here. Are you okay to ask Ty to come get you? You don't have to stay, and this is really no place for Lyndy to be for any length of time. I'll be okay to drive myself home later."

"Are you sure?" asked Amy looking at him carefully.

"Positive," Jack replied.

"Okay. I'll call Ty," Amy said, pulling out her cell. "Tell Lisa we're all so happy she's going to be okay."

"I will," said Jack. "'Bye for now. See you later tonight."

He stepped back inside Lisa's room and immediately noticed her low spirits.

"Hey, are you all right?"

"Not really," Lisa said in a low whisper.

"What did those cops say to you?" Jack asked with concern.

"I... I don't really want to talk about that now," Lisa said weakly, her stomach still unsettled and her head still aching. She also intuited Jack would be upset if he heard about the kinds of questions that had been asked of him. He had already been through so much in the past 24 hours, she wanted to spare him.

"Hey, did I tell you it was Ty and Scott who found you out on the road?"

She looked at him in surprise. "No," she uttered, face brightening despite her current miserable state.

Jack nodded. "They were coming back into town. They saw your Porsche and stopped right away. They saved your life, Lis."

"My angels," Lisa whispered. "Please tell them I say 'thank you.'"

"Well, you can tell them yourself when we bust you out of this joint," Jack said with a grin.

Lisa cracked a small smile. "Yes, I suppose I can."

"There's that smile I was hoping to see," Jack murmured happily, brushing his fingertips on her cheek.

"I think I need a nap," Lisa said.

"Then go ahead and have a nap," Jack said. "I'll be right here with you."

"Thanks," Lisa whispered, as her eyes drifted shut again.

Jack simply sat and watched while she dozed, hopeful the worst was behind them.

***

Hudson Police Headquarters

"Lisa Stillman was quite adamant her husband had nothing to do with her shooting," Kavanaugh said during their debrief with Parker of their interview with Lisa.

"She has had no contact from Liam Comox, and she could not name any other potential threats in her life," Patterson added.

"Hmm," Parker hummed with a frown.

"The only other connection we've come up with so far that links Stanton and Stillman is one Dan Hartfield," Patterson said.

"And all three of them belong to some investors' group that was meeting in Calgary yesterday," said Kavanaugh.

A knock on the door brought the conversation to a halt.

"Come in," Parker called.

"Chief," Constable Becket said, opening the door, "there's a man named Dan Hartfield who's demanding to see you."

"Speak of the devil," Kavanaugh muttered under his breath.

"What's this about Hartfield wanting to see me? What's his problem?" Parker asked, irritated at having been interrupted.

"The man's a nervous wreck," Becket responded. "He says he heard about what happened yesterday to Lisa Stillman. He says he thinks his life is in danger, too."

"Oh, does he, now?" Parker said, considering this piece of information. "Did Hartfield provide any proof to support that idea?"

"From what he's told me, he pointed to the fact that all the shooting victims in Hudson so far—Stanton and Stillman—were all part of some private investors' group he happens to belong to," Becket said. "He thinks there might be, and I quote, 'a hit list', and that he thinks he could be next."

"Patterson; Kavanaugh, go have a talk with him," Parker commanded. "See what he has to say for himself and this little investors' group... and why he thinks there might be a 'hit list', as he calls it."

"You got it, Boss," Kavanaugh said, as both he and Patterson made a hasty exit.

***

"Where's Chief Parker?" Dan asked upon seeing Kavanaugh and Patterson enter the room in which he was asked to wait.

"Busy," Kavanaugh said evasively. "We'll take your statement."

Dan scowled. "Okay, fine," he said. "As long as you take this right to him."

"If what you tell us is worth mentioning, we will," Kavanaugh commented dryly. "Now, we understand you have reason to believe your life is in danger?"

"Yes!" Dan exclaimed. "You need to believe me when I tell you someone is out to get the members of an investors' group I belong to. Someone out there obviously has a hit list, and he's already taken out three of us!"

"Three of you?" Patterson asked, surprised by this revelation.

"Yes! Please listen to me," Dan begged. "My life and all our lives in that group could be in danger."

Moved by Dan's palpable sense of fear, Patterson said, "Fine. Tell us everything you can."

Later

"So Hartfield insists Val Stanton and Lisa Stillman were targets because of this investors' group they all belong to?" Parker said during his debriefing with Kavanaugh and Patterson following their interview with Dan Hartfield.

"He also brought up one that was not on our radar because it happened up in Calgary over a year ago, and it was listed as a home invasion-robbery gone wrong," Patterson said. "Husband and wife by the name of Lanny and Paige Barick."

"I remember hearing about that one," said Parker, growing serious. "Get me a list with all names of all those investors, pronto!"

"Hartfield already did. It's right here." Patterson passed a piece of paper to the chief that Dan had provided.

"This is the full list?" asked Parker after reading the contents.

"Affirmative."

"Barick, Stanton, and Stillman have all been hit," Parker said. "Hartfield is convinced he could be next. These other names: Stanley Belmont, Fred Garland, Tanner Gunn, Emma Fitzroy, Jesse Stanton, and Connor Wiebe... If Hartfield thinks someone is offing the members of this group, we have a lot of ground to cover."

"Chief," Patterson said slowly, "when Kavanaugh and I were questioning Stillman at the hospital earlier today, she mentioned the reason she was heading into Calgary that afternoon was to vote on Jesse Stanton's admission into the group."

"You think there's some connection between that event and all the shootings?" Parker asked.

Patterson shrugged. "I don't know," she answered honestly. "Stillman seemed to think Jesse's membership was pretty much a done deal, so maybe not."

"Another point worth mentioning: Hartfield had been romantically involved with Stanton, and he and Stillman used to be married to each other," Kavanaugh said. "He doesn't stand to gain anything if Stillman is out of the picture—nothing we've uncovered yet, anyway."

"Interesting," Parker murmured, wearing a pensive expression. "Think there's a life insurance policy he's kept up all these years?"

"Could be," Kavanaugh responded. "Jesse Stanton seemed to think Hartfield was just as rich as his mother, if not more so. But maybe if we go digging, we'll find Hartfield is strapped for cash. Could be motive to want Stillman out of the way, at least, and this whole 'hit list' thing is a smokescreen."

"It's worth looking into," Parker said. "We know Stillman and Hartfield maintained business ties after they divorced, but this little private investors' group... I want the team to dig a bit into their activity, too. See if we can find any reasons why someone would want to bump off the members, just in case Hartfield isn't just being paranoid."

"Yes, sir," Kavanaugh said. "We're on it."

***

Upon arriving at Maggie's, Tim immediately fielded questions from several of the regulars as to how Lisa was doing. He was able to pass along the happy news she was awake and on the way to recovery in the hospital.

"Oh, my gosh, I'm so glad you came in today, Tim," Jade Virani said in a rush, catching him between taking an order to the kitchen and picking one up. "Small-town gossip is insane. Everyone in here's been talking about what happened to Lisa."

"Well, she's awake now and doing a lot better," Tim said. "So whatever they've been saying can stop."

"You don't get it, Tim," Jade said, eyes shifting around the diner. "Some of your loyal customers are saying some totally dumb sh—uh, things."

"Yeah? Like what?" Tim ventured to ask.

Jade sidled up closer to him and in a conspiratorial whisper said: "Stupid stuff like maybe Jack did it so he could make it rich off Lisa's will."

"That's ridiculous," Tim snapped in a heated tone.

"I know," Jade said, "but it's what some people are saying."

Tim let out a breath in exasperation, also taking a quick glance around at all the patrons sitting at the tables and squeezed into booths.

How can they think Jack could be capable of doing that to Lisa? The thought was preposterous, yet, some of these so-called loyal customers evidently could not resist proposing the worst theories possible.

"Okay, get back to work, Jade," Tim urged. "We're not paying you to stand around. But if you hear anyone else saying they think Jack somehow wanted to get Lisa out of the way, you and the rest of the staff have my permission to deny them service. Better yet, kick 'em out and tell 'em not to come back."

Jade's mouth twisted into a conniving smile. "Can I just spit in their food, instead?" she joked rhetorically, and continued on to the kitchen.

***

That same day, a phone call took place between two people.

"We've got a problem. Lisa Stillman just woke up," the first voice uttered.

"'We', Kemosabe?" the other voice spat in derision, followed by a barrage of profanity. "You absolute idiot! It was foolhardy to go after Stillman when you did, but you got impatient!"

"C'mon, man, you know I'm running out of time. Help me fix this. If it wasn't for me, you would never have had access to—"

"Yeah, yeah, fine," the second voice interjected with annoyance. "But you've just used up all the currency you earned with that one, understand? No more favours. No more unauthorized moves. We lie low now for the next little while, got it?"

"Yeah, I got it."

"Good. And listen: if those vets become a problem—"

"Don't worry; I'll take care of them," the first voice said.

"I was hoping you'd say that, since you're the reason they might be a problem in the first place!"

***

Later that same afternoon, a new conversation took place between two individuals that would have been of great interest to Chief Parker and his team of investigators. Unfortunately, those law enforcement officers were unaware it was happening, and were therefore unable to act upon it.

"Is your man still in Hudson?"

"Yeah, probably. He says he likes the scenery and he likes bear hunting. I hear there's been some sightings around those parts lately."

"Tell him to forget the freakin' bears. I've got a different quarry for him again—of the human variety. This one's a bit of a clean-up job. I'm counting on your guy to finish it right."

"'Clean-up', eh?"

"Yeah. The first attempt was seriously botched."

"I'm insulted you didn't contact me for the job in the first place."

"Heh. If it had been my call, I would have brought your man in again for this one. But I have a maverick who thought he could take matters into his own hands. Went off, half-cocked, and left me with this mess."

"I see. Give me the details and he'll get it done. "

"The target is currently a patient in the South Calgary Health Campus. Her name is Lisa Stillman. I'll send you a picture, as usual. I really don't care how it's done; your man just needs to make her dead, and he needs to make it happen before she can be discharged. The sooner, the better."

"Hmm. The hospital is risky. Too many cameras, too much security, and too many people crawling around. My guy will want extra. Call it 'danger pay'."

"How much extra?"

"Ten grand."

"Done. And when he's through offing Stillman, tell him to stick around Hudson for a little while longer. I have a feeling there might be a couple other loose ends for him to tie up."

"Fine. The more, the merrier!"

***

After contacting Rachel Stillman in Montreal and Peter in Vancouver, Lou was finally able to reach Lisa's aunt, who was currently enjoying a cruise of the Mediterranean. The woman did not mind the late call, and had been anxious for word on her niece's condition.

"Do you need me to come out to Alberta?" Evelyn asked. "I can get off at the next port of call and arrange a flight."

"No, Evelyn, you can stay right where you are for now," Lou said calmly. "Lisa's out of the ICU. There's no need to come rushing back."

"Are you sure?" Evelyn's husky voice was filled with worry.

"I'm sure," Lou said. "We'll call if anything changes."

"All right. Tell her I love her, will you, please, Lou? I hope those doctors and nurses are taking very good care of her."

"I'm sure they are," Lou said. "'Bye for now."

***

With Georgie's excused absence from school, Adam and Wyatt paid a call on their friend, both to get her up to speed on missed schoolwork, and for moral support.

Georgie, however, was interested in neither. Her mind was turned to matters of justice.

"Adam, what's the latest on your father's investigation into what's happened to Lisa?" she asked, as soon as homework was delivered along with the expected but nonetheless welcome words of concern from the boys.

"Sorry, Georgie," Adam said with a slow shake of his head. "My dad can't share details with me about an active case."

"Oh," Georgie said with a disappointed pout.

"But that doesn't mean we can't do some investigating of our own," Adam added.

"What—do we look like the Hardy Boys and Nancy Drew to you?" Wyatt quipped.

Georgie made a face; Wyatt took the cue and quieted himself.

"Seriously, though," Adam said, "I have some theories."

"Like?" Georgie asked.

"Like the fact this is the second shooting to happen in Hudson where both victims were women who were in the horse business," Adam said plainly.

"Doesn't prove anything," Wyatt rejoined. "A lot of people in this town are in the horse business. It's, like, all you see around here. I mean, this town is practically built on equine-this and rodeo-that."

"Yeah, but not all of those businesses are as high-end as Briar Ridge and Fairfield," Adam pointed out. "They have some pretty exclusive clients. They're high profile. I've done some preliminary research. Fairfield is pretty famous in horse-racing circles, and not just in Canada. The same goes for Briar Ridge for showjumping."

"You think someone deliberately targeted Val Stanton and Lisa because of their high profiles in the equestrian business?" Georgie asked, stunned at what Adam was suggesting.

Adam calmly responded, "It's possible."

Wyatt snorted. "So, what—you think there's some psycho serial killer out there who's taking out women who train and breed horses for rich people?"

"No," Adam answered in his usual dry manner. "Serial killers tend to stick to a specific modus operandi. The news didn't provide a lot of details, but I've deduced Val Stanton was probably killed by a sniper with a rifle from a significant distance. Lisa Stillman was in her vehicle when she was shot, probably by someone with a handgun, and from close range. Val Stanton was shot once. Lisa Stillman was shot twice. Two completely different methods. It was clearly not the same person."

"Clearly," Wyatt said with a dubious shake of his head.

"Wait," Georgie said slowly, thinking now of the circumstances under which the Briar Ridge owner had died. "When Val was shot, she was riding Herring. Lisa had just lent him to Val so she could see if she wanted to buy him. What if—what if this has to do with Herring?"

"Why would someone kill someone else over a horse?" Wyatt sounded unconvinced.

Adam stared at Georgie. "How valuable is Herring?"

"Oh, I-I don't know," Georgie considered. "But Lisa's horses aren't cheap stock. He could easily be worth one hundred thousand, or more."

"A hundred thousand?!" Wyatt sputtered. "As in dollars? For a horse? You could buy a couple slick new cars for that amount."

"Not only that," Georgie said, looking between her two friends. "Olympic showjumping horses can be worth millions. And that's just the price of the horse. Stud fees is where the real money is for breeders like Lisa."

"'Stud fees'?" Wyatt echoed in confusion.

"You know, horse breeding?" Georgie said, searching his face for signs of comprehension.

"Whoa. People pay for that?" Wyatt exclaimed. "You mean, it doesn't just, like, happen? 'Born free'?"

Georgie rolled her eyes; Adam ignored his pal. "Georgie, what else can you tell me about this horse?"

"Um, not much, really. Lisa planned to have Herring as a hunter-jumper for when she goes on those faux fox hunts they do with the club. Then Val said she might be interested. Lisa's nephew's horse was the sire. I'm sorry; that's all I know." She shook her head while shrugging helplessly.

"See if you can figure anything else out," Adam advised. "There's got to be something special about him. He's still here at Heartland, right?"

"Right," Georgie replied. "We've kept him here since he belongs to Lisa, after all."

"You might want to consider keeping a close eye on him," Adam warned.

"Why? You think someone might try to steal him?" Georgie asked, suddenly uneasy at what Adam seemed to be suggesting.

"Maybe," Adam answered. "Right now, anything is possible, and Herring appears to be the only thing linking Val and Lisa."

***

South Calgary Health Campus

Despite wanting to stay awake, Jack eventually nodded off, emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion taking over. The turmoil of the past 24 hours soon played havoc on his dreamscape as phantom manifestations of Chief Parker and his investigators interrogated him about what happened to Lisa.

"Do you own any firearms?" the dream-Parker asked menacingly.

"A rifle," Jack replied, thinking Parker already knew the answer anyway.

"Does Lisa have a will?"

Jack knew he had to answer honestly. "Yes. Of course she does."

"And who's the beneficiary?" Parker asked.

"Well, I am," Jack replied.

The faces of the dream versions of Kavanaugh and Patterson seemed full of condemnation.

"But... that's all to ensure my—our—grandchildren and great-grandchildren will inherit the Fairfield property and business," Jack said, wanting to make them understand.

"I see," dream-Parker said, writing down notes on a notepad.

"Look, I don't expect to out-live my wife," Jack said, trying to keep his temper in check. "That will she made... she made it when she was worried about a possible health issue a couple years ago. It turned out to be nothing, thank goodness, and heaven knows I don't want to be saddled with a horseracing outfit. Lisa knows that. She was thinking of the kids, not of me."

"Mr. Bartlett, do you own a motorcycle?" Kavanaugh asked.

"No," Jack replied. "But my grandson-in-law does. A Norton." Wait, no, he doesn't, some part of Jack's brain argued. He sold it, remember?

"Mr. Bartlett, you're under arrest for the murder of your wife, Lisa Stillman," Parker said, reaching for a pair of handcuffs.

"Wait!" Jack shouted, fear building up inside him. "I didn't kill her! She's still alive! She's still alive!"

"Jack?"

Jack awoke with a start at the sound of Lisa's voice.

"Are you okay?" she asked.

Jack opened his eyes. Lisa was staring at him with a puzzled expression. "Hmph," he muttered. "Yeah, I'm fine."

"You were shouting in your sleep, honey," Lisa said.

Jack grimaced. "Uh, I had a bad dream."

"Want to tell me about it?"

"Not really," he answered, rubbing his face. The fear that had coursed through him when the dream version of Chief Parker was about to arrest him was already receding. "It was just stupid, irrational stuff. Didn't mean to wake you up."

"It's okay," Lisa said with a tired nod and a yawn. Her eyelids flickered shut and she drifted off to sleep again.

Jack sat himself straight up in his chair and resolved to stay awake this time, lest he slip back into another bad dream. Thank God that nightmare is over.

***

Chapter 8: Hunter and the Hunted

#Heartland #Heartland fanfiction #JISA fanfiction #my fanfiction #Bad Business #A Heartland Murder Mystery #Jack Bartlett #Amy Fleming #Tim Fleming #Lisa Stillman #Lou Fleming #Georgie Fleming Morris #Adam Parker #Wyatt #Chief Parker #Dan Hartfield #Aunt Evelyn #Jade Virani #nadir jutley