Chapter 1

Marshall Sam Cain threw the pencil that he was holding across the old pine desk. ‘Who am I trying to kid,’ he asked himself as he leaned back in his chair. Pulling his dusty boot clad feet to rest on the desktop, he knitted his fingers together behind his head. He leaned back into the chair as he contemplated what he should do next.

He had been trying all week to catch up on some of the paper work that his position generated. But his mind could no longer rest on work any more than a child could sit still through church. He was restless and his worry continued to grow with each passing hour that his deputy did not return.

Dropping his feet to the floor, he turned his chair around to face the empty cell. He knew he should have take the prisoner to St. Joseph himself. It wasn’t that he thought Barnett wasn’t responsible enough to handle the simple transport, he just felt responsible for the young man. “If anything happens.....” he said to himself as he stared at the empty cell, his hands resting on either side of the armrests.

“If anything happens to what?”

Sam turned quickly to see his dust covered deputy come strolling through the door. “Where the hell have you been?” Sam asked as he jumped up from his chair. Barnett stopped in front of the water bucket, drawing up the ladle. A puzzled expression covered the deputy’s face.

“I took Jamison to St. Joseph. Just like you told me. Why? Did somethin’ happen?” He sipped from the ladle, voicing a sigh of relief from the cool clean water. Taking another longer sip, he put the ladle back in the bucket and turned his full attention to Sam. “You knew I’s goin’.”

Sam stood with his hands resting on his gun belt. Shaking his head, he smiled at Barnett. “Sorry. You took so long. I thought Jamison might have gotten away.” He turned back to his desk, running his fingers through the loose light brown hair. Sighing, he turned back to Barnett. “I guess I’m just restless. Something’s coming. I can feel it. I just don’t know what it is.”

Barnett’s eyes widened with anticipation. “What do ya think it is?”

Sam shook his head. “Don’t know. But I feel it.” He looked past his deputy out into the bright afternoon. He watched as a man and woman passed by the small jail office. “Hey, you want to go get a drink?” he asked, turning his attention back to Barnett.

A smile appeared on the deputy’s dirt streaked face. He looked tired. Taking off his hat, he ran a hand across his matted hair. “Yeah, you bet. I just need to get cleaned up first. You go on over and I’ll meet ya there.”

Sam smiled, thrilled at the idea of getting out of the too quiet office. He needed some conversation. He needed some people. ‘And a drink sure couldn’t hurt,’ he thought to himself. “Sounds good. Meet you over there,” Sam said as he pulled his hat off the wall hook. Placing it firmly on his head, he headed out the door into the warm Spring afternoon.

He inhaled deeply on the clean air. The jail was beginning to get a musty smell to it. He knew sooner or later, he was gonna have to take a day and scrub it clean. He hated when it got like that. But today wasn’t the day. He couldn’t stand the thought of being cooped up in that office for another minute.

“Afternoon ma’am,” he said as Miss Sadie, the dress shop owner passed by him. Tipping his hat, he smiled as the lovely young shop owner batted her long lashes.

“Afternoon Marshall,” she said as she continued on by. Sam looked at her quickly over his shoulder. She was quite an attractive woman. ‘Better not let Emma see you staring like that,’ he said to himself as he turned back around. Smiling, he shook his head. Even when she wasn’t with him, she was.

“Cody, will you give me back that letter!” Lou shouted as she ran after the rowdy rider. “That’s mine.”

“It’s a love letter, ain’t it? Oh Kid, you’re so handsome. Oh Kid, you’re so special. Oh Kid......” Cody said, mocking a young woman’s voice. Lou stood before the flamboyant man, her hands on her hips. A stern look was stamped on her pretty face. Squinting her eyes, she pushed up her glasses with her index finger.

“I mean it Cody. Don’t make me kill you.” As the words came out of her mouth, she tried to keep her straight face, but couldn’t. She, Cody and Buck laughed playfully at her stern vengeance.

Cody leaned forward, his hands covering his stomach and laughed as if it were the funniest thing he had ever heard. Lou took that opportunity to snatch the letter that he held loosely in his right hand.

“Hey,” he said as she took off at a run. Cody looked at Buck and they both smiled. They looked back at Lou and took off after the spry rider. Cody’s interest was piqued. He had to read it; he had to know what was said in the letter that had gotten Lou so riled up. The three ran towards the main street of Sweetwater. They had come into town to pick up a few supplies for Emma and had been playing around along the way.

As Lou turned the corner, she came to a screeching halt. Cody and Buck piling into her as she stood with her arms out. “Lou, what the heck are ya....”

“SSSSHHHHHHH” she said, her focus staring straight ahead of them. Buck looked up, smiling at the fun of such a carefree day when he saw what had halted Lou in her tracks. Sam stood on the boardwalk with a young woman in his arms.

“I wonder who that is?” Lou asked, pushing her glasses back up her nose. The three stood staring, frozen to their spots as Sam hugged the young woman tightly to his chest. As the young woman pulled back from Sam, he leaned down and kissed her on the cheek.

“Emma’s not going to like this,” Buck said, knowing how smitten their house mother was with the handsome Marshall. He looked, with wide eyes, from the scene before him to Cody who was suddenly very quiet as well.

“We can’t tell her, can we? What if it’s something else,” Lou said, her eyes fixed on Cody. “It could really hurt her.” Lou’s eyes were filled with conflict. On one hand, she knew that if Sam were seeing someone else, Emma had every right to know. But on the other hand, she felt that maybe it wasn’t their business to get into.

Cody shook his head, looking back at the other two riders. “No, she ain’t gonna like this. But I don’t think we should tell her. Not yet. Ain’t Sam supposed to come over for dinner tomorrow?” he asked, a plan forming in his mind.

“Yeah, I think so,” Lou said, looking at Buck who shook his head yes also. She pushed at her glasses with her index finger. “Why?”

Looking at the ground in front of him, Cody scuffed his feet. He never thought he would be having to keep anything from Emma. She was one of the only people in his life that he had ever been able to be one hundred percent honest with. “Well, we will wait until tomorrow and keep a watch on him. If he acts fine when he comes over for dinner, I think it best if we speak to him about it first.”

“Ain’t she just a bit too young for him anyways,” Lou said gruffly, folding her arms across her chest. Her brow furrowed as she considered the man that she had come to think of as a good friend. She never imagined he would do anything to hurt Emma.

All three of them watched closely as the Marshall stood talking and laughing with the young beauty. He slid his arm around her small waist and guided her to the hotel. Placing his hand on her back, he led her inside, looking around the streets of Sweetwater quickly before disappearing into the hotel’s lobby.

Lou held a hand to her face, covering her gaping mouth. She turned to see the same look of shock and dismay on Buck and Cody’s faces. Shaking her head, she started back toward her horse. It was going to be dark soon and she wanted to get back to the station. Thoughts of Emma weighed heavily on her mind. ‘Poor Emma,’ she thought as she stuffed her hands into her pockets. ‘She never saw it coming.’

“Marshall! Marshall!”

Sam walking casually toward the saloon. He had been so deep in his thoughts of finding a decent card game that he didn’t hear the young woman at first.

“Marshall Cain!”

He stopped abruptly, turning to see who was calling his name. There was an attractive young woman walking toward him, a brilliant smile on her youthful face. Sam smiled. ‘I certainly don’t remember seeing her around here.’ As the young woman got closer, something very familiar began to creep into the unsuspecting lawman.

“Bo, is that any way to treat a guest?” the young woman said, her hands coming to rest on her defined waist.

‘Bo?’ he thought to himself, a strange sense of knowing falling over him. ‘No one has called me Bo in......’ Then it struck him like lightning from the clear blue sky.

“Hannah?” he asked, his eyes wide with surprise. “Hannah Cain, is that you?”

The young woman squealed with delight. “Yup, it’s me big brother,” she said as she threw herself into his strong arms.

Sam couldn’t believe it. He had his little baby sister in his arms, after so many years. He lifted her slightly off the ground and spun her around. He set her back down on the boardwalk, pulling away slightly. “I can’t believe it. When did you get here? How long are you staying? What about school?” A million questions ran through around his head as he tried to grasp that she was really there.

“Slow down Bo,” she laughed, a brilliant smile covering her entire face. “First things first. You look so good.” She pulled back, looking the tall lanky sheriff up and down. “The West certainly agrees with you.”

Sam shook his head. “Me? Look at you. I can’t get over it. You are so grown up.” He held her hands out to get a better look at her. Pulling her back into his arms, he squeezed her tightly. “I’ve missed you so much,” he said, kissing the side of her forehead.

“So tell me, what are you doing here? You are the very last person that I ever thought I would see here. Why did you leave school?”

“I just got in today. I came to see you big brother,” she put her arm around his waist. “What a nice little town you have here.” She looked out into the small dusty street.

“But Hannah, what happened to your studies? Miss Mason? She must be worried sick about you. I know she wouldn’t just let you......” he said, his hands resting on his hips in an authoritative fashion.

“Bo, Miss Mason died three weeks ago,” she said, the smile slipping from her face. She looked down at her hands, fidgeting with her nails. “My studies were cut short.” Looking up at Sam with weary eyes, she tried to muster a smile. “I didn’t have anywhere else to go.”

He felt his heart break, the stress of the last month obviously weighing heavily on her youthful face. “The school decided that it was best if I left. Miss Mary, a housekeeper at the school, gave me what money she could spare before she left to go back to Virginia,” she said, fully wringing her hands. She looked up as a tear fell down her cheek. “I just didn’t have any place to go.”

Sam wrapped his long arms tightly around the small woman that he had adored his entire life. He had no idea that she had been in any trouble at all. Many times over the years, he had wanted to get her from the boarding school that she attended, but he knew that she was better off getting a good education. He knew he didn’t have much to offer her, especially when he had been running around as a hired gun.

But now, the only think he wanted to do was protect his baby sister. She was the one bright spot in his life that he always held on to. He knew one day that she would be back with him. She was part of the reason for him changing his ways, for him becoming a lawman.

He stroked her hair, placing a gentle kiss on the top of her silky mane. “Don’t you worry Hannah. You’re with me now. I’ll take care of you. You never have to worry about anything again.”

She pulled back from her brother and her heart felt so full of love. “I’ve missed you so much Bo,” she said as she took in every detail of his face.

Sam smiled, kissing her on the cheek. “You too sweet pea. Now, come on. Let’s get you settled at the hotel for tonight.”

As they were entering the hotel, Sam had the strangest sensation that he was being watched. He quickly scanned the quiet streets, but saw no one. Shrugging, he followed his sister into the hotel. There were so many things that he still wanted to know.

“What the heck is up with you three?” James Butler Hickok asked as he threw the wood he had been carrying down to the ground. “You all been acting goofy all mornin’ and you’re making me crazy.” With his brow furrowed and his lips pursed, he looked from Cody to Buck to Lou who shifted her stance uncomfortably.

Jimmy had tried all morning to ignore them. The three riders had been quiet the entire previous evening, periodically exchanging confusing glances. It had carried over to the morning chores as well. Not only had he been bumped into on three separate occasions, he was stabbed with the pitch fork, had wood dropped on his foot, and was nearly decapitated by Cody’s wild swings with the ax. He didn’t know what was wrong, but all the distractedness was finally getting on his last nerve.

“It’s nothing Jimmy,” Cody said as he turned back to the woodpile that he was making his way through. His tone was calm and soothing, but Hickok would not be swayed.

“You call this nothing. Tell me what is going on!” he demanded, his hands resting on his hips as a stern look replaced the usually cool expression that Jimmy sported. Seeing that Cody was paying him no mind, Jimmy’s anger grew stronger. He grabbed Cody by the shoulder, turning him roughly. “I’m talking to you.”

Cody was jerked back toward Hickok. It happened so fast and without warning that Cody nearly tumbled forward at the lack of balance he had. Grabbing Jimmy’s arm, he steadied himself. Finally realizing the harshness of Jimmy’s manner, Cody stood up tall, coming nose to nose with the reckless rider.

Lou didn’t like what was happening at all. She wasn’t used to seeing Jimmy get so mad. She shoved her hands in her pockets. Giving a quick glance in Buck’s direction, she saw the same look of worry that she knew was on her own face. Pushing her glasses up, she grabbed Jimmy by the arm.

“Jimmy stop,” she said swallowing hard. Jimmy turned his full attention to the spry rider, a look of ‘this better be good’ resting on his face. Clearing her throat, she looked deep into Jimmy’s eyes, trying to convey the seriousness of the situation. “We got some news that we don’t rightly know what to do with, I guess.”

Jimmy looked as if his patience had finally broke. Throwing his hands in the air and letting them fall hard against his sides, he shook his head. “And just what is that supposed to mean? What kind of news are you talking about?”

Buck licked his dry lips, wondering where to begin. “Jimmy, when we went to town yesterday, we...ah, we saw somethin’ that we think we weren’t meant to see.” He looked quickly down at the ground. He felt uncomfortable discussing what was Emma and Sam’s business. But he also felt hurt that Sam would do such a thing to Emma. He had come to think of Emma as somewhat of a mother. He certainly didn’t want to see her hurt.

“Weren’t meant to see? Would you all quite talking in riddles?” Jimmy said through clenched teeth. His head ached from the double talk he felt he was getting from his friends. He didn’t know what to think. He knew his friends would never do anything to cause him or the others harm, but he didn’t like the tone of their voices. There was something in them that made the hair on the back of his neck stand on end.

Ike McSwain came out of the barn, Buck’s saddle in his arms. He had spent most of the morning, oiling and cleaning all the rider’s saddles. He was hot and tired and ready to take a rest. He could feel the sweat roll down his forehead and threatening to fall into his eyes. Setting the saddle on the wooden corral fence, he exhaled sharply at the relief of setting down the heavy piece of leather.

He pulled his handkerchief out of his back pocket and wiped at his dirt-streaked face. Shoving it back into his pocket, he looked up when he heard someone shouting. Near the bunkhouse porch, he could see Jimmy and the others standing in a circle. Jimmy was waving his hands wildly, an angry expression on his face. Curious and even a bit alarmed by Jimmy’s obvious agitation, Ike approached the meeting to see what was going on.

Everyone turned at Ike’s approach. Buck looked over his shoulder, worry plastered all over his face. Ike didn’t like the feelings he was getting from the unusually aggressive group. Cody glanced over and offered a nod to Ike as he turned his attention back to the task at hand. “Okay Jimmy, okay.” Cody said, trying to get him to lower his voice.

Jimmy crossed his arms over his chest, an exasperated look on his face. Cody wondered how the hot headed man would ever be able to deal with people when he had such a short fuse. “When we were in town yesterday, we...ah, well, we saw Sam.”

Jimmy looked at Ike, a look of disdain on his youthful face. “Do you believe this Ike? They saw Sam.” Turning back to Cody, “you got to be kidding me. You saw Sam...in town....and that’s what’s got you all worked up. Cody, he lives in town. For hell’s sake, he’s the Marshall; ‘course he’s in town.” Jimmy shook his head. He had enough.

He turned and started to walk away. “Jimmy, will you let us finish?” Lou said curtly, her nerves a mere bundle of raw ends. Jimmy stopped, putting his hands on his hips and allowing his head to fall to his chest. He didn’t want to keep playing the same games. He turned abruptly to face the three riders, exchanging curious glances with Ike as they waited.

Lou looked at Buck and then Cody, before she turned back to Jimmy and Ike. “We saw Sam, but he didn’t see us.” Seeing that Jimmy was just about to give up and walk away she quickly continued on. “He was with a woman.”

This stopped both Ike and Jimmy abruptly. Jimmy looked at Lou, a darkness setting in to his cool blue eyes. She could see him searching her face, as well as the faces of Cody and Buck for proof of her accusation.

Lou sighed. She didn’t want to say it out loud. Neither her, Cody or Buck had even mentioned it since they had witnessed the whole event the previous afternoon. In a way, she felt that if she vocalized it, it made it true. And she didn’t want it to be true.

“He was standing on the boardwalk with a young woman in his arms. He was hugging her and holding her and then....” she stopped, taking a deep breath as she looked at Ike to see the same confused look that Jimmy had. “He kissed her.”

The rage began to boil in James Butler Hickok. He couldn’t believe that Sam would do something like that to Emma. Jimmy knew that Emma loved Sam more than anything. For him to abuse that love, and in such a blatant manner, made Jimmy more furious than he could ever remember being.

“Now, we don’t really know what was happening though,” Cody said, knowing that he didn’t even believe the words that he was saying. He wanted so bad to give Sam the benefit of the doubt, but after the display of affection that they had witnessed, it was hard to.

“Don’t know what happened?”

The five riders turned to see Kid standing by them, pieces of hay scattered across his dark hair. He was breathing hard as he wiped at the sweat that covered his face. Kid could feel the anger that ran through the group. Jimmy was pacing in a small circle, his fists opening and closing in an unconscious gesture.

He looked to Ike, whose eyes were filled with such pain. Quickly he scanned the rest of the group. Something was terribly wrong. “Lou, Cody, what is it? Is something wrong?” Knowing that they were all safe, he tried to think of anyone else that could be in trouble. “Emma! Is something wrong with Emma?” he said, panic nipping at his words.

“I’ll say. Something sure as hell is wrong. How could she trust him? How could we trust him?” Jimmy ranted as he paced back and forth. Lou ran her fingers through her hair as Ike sat down on a piece of wood, his head resting in his hands. He unconsciously rubbed his hands across his bare head, a gesture Kid knew he did only when he was worried or afraid.

Kid grabbed Lou by the arms. “What is it? What’s a matter with Emma?”

Lou turned, startled by Kid’s insistence. “Oh no,” she said, shaking her head. “No, physically she is fine. Don’t worry ‘bout that. It’s just that.....” She looked deep into Kid’s eyes, her brown eyes full of sadness. “We saw Sam with another woman in town yesterday. He was kissing her.”

A million thoughts raced through Kid’s mind as he let go of Lou’s arms. “No, there must be some mistake. He wouldn’t do that.” Kid ran his fingers through his thick brown hair, lacing them together at the base of his neck. He looked at Jimmy who paced back and forth, mumbling to himself as he clenched his fists.

“Did anyone tell Emma?” Kid asked, a feeling of being older than his time biting at his heels.

Cody turned quickly to face Kid. “We can’t tell her that. It will hurt her terribly.” Cody knew that if it were the case, that out of love and respect for Emma, she deserved to know. But he just couldn’t help thinking that it just couldn’t be so. Sam loved her too. ‘He wouldn’t do anything to hurt her, would he?’ Cody asked himself.

Lou looked at the ground in front of her. She felt tired. She loved Emma like a mother and she hated the idea of lying to her, but she hated the idea of hurting her worse. Sighing heavily, she looked briefly at Cody and Buck. Turning to face Kid, “there’s more.”

Jimmy stopped his pacing, a silence falling over him. Ike looked up from where he sat, not knowing if he wanted to hear any more. Kid’s every expression held comfort for Lou. “We saw him go into the hotel with her.” Lou left it at that. She thought about adding Sam’s suspicious look around, but knew that enough had already been said. In their eyes, he was already convicted. That would have only added more fuel to the fire.

She looked quickly at Cody and Buck to see that they approved of her omitting that last piece of information. She would save it, bringing it back to light only if it were completely necessary.

“HE WHAT?” Jimmy shouted, an absolute look of shock on his face. That was the last thing that he expected to hear come out of the female rider’s mouth. Ike sat with his mouth open, a million thoughts racing through his mind.

“I can’t believe that he would do that to Emma?” Kid finally managed to say. He was at a loss. This was more of a situation than he could have ever dreamed of.

“Do what to me?”

Lou jumped as the group of riders turned to see Emma Shannon standing before them, a basket of linens balanced perfectly on her small hip. A pleasant and comforting smile rested on the beautiful woman’s face. She blew at a stray piece of hair that tickled her forehead before turning her full attention to the group in front of her.

All six riders stood with their mouths hanging open. No one knew what to say. Finally, Cody stepped in. Smiling, he threw Emma a patented charmer smile. “We were just laughing about how mean that was of Teaspoon to insult your biscuits last night.” The other riders forced themselves to laugh, following along for lack of any other reasonable idea.

Emma laughed as she batted at a stray piece of silky red hair. “That Mr. Spoon is quite a joker.” Looking at Cody, “but you noticed that he ate three of them biscuits, didn’t ya?”

Cody laughed again, “Yeah Emma, sure did. Well, I think we better get back to our chores. We just needed a break.”

Smiling, Emma placed a comforting hand on Cody’s arm. “You all are working so hard. Take a little extra time. I’ll bring some lemonade out in a little bit.” She turned to go back to the house to hang up the rest of the linens. “By the way, don’t forget to be washed up and ready to eat by 6. Sam’s having dinner with us tonight.” With that said, she resumed her journey back toward the house, humming a sweet tune as she went.

Jimmy stood with his hands on his hips, his head hung forward. He shook his head. Looking back at the others, “Now what?” Kid could feel the raw emotions that ran through the group. He knew he had to get them in check before someone did something that they might all later regret.

“I think what we should do is wait and see how Sam acts at dinner tonight. If he acts like nothing’s wrong, then one of us might want to take him aside sometime during the evening and ask him about it. If he acts different, then I think we should wait until tomorrow and go talk to him in town. We don’t want a scene in front of Emma,” Kid said, trying to be as diplomatic as he possibly could. He just couldn’t make himself believe that Sam would hurt Emma that way.

“Why? So he can lie to us?” Jimmy said curtly, anger still coursing through the young man’s veins.

“Jimmy, I understand how you feel. If he did do it, I want to protect Emma just as much as you do. But I just think we need to give him the benefit of the doubt. Sam is our friend. You know he would never do anything to hurt Emma or us,” Buck said, his voice low and controlled. He wanted so bad to believe it to be true.

Jimmy stood, staring at the ground. He wanted it to be true too. He wanted it all to be a misunderstanding. “All right. We wait till he comes over for dinner tonight. Then we take it from there.”

The riders exchanged uncertain glances. All wanted it to be a mistake, but most of them finding it hard to accept as a viable answer. ‘I guess we wait until tonight,’ Ike thought to himself as he headed back to the barn to finish his chores.

It was nearing 6 as all the riders made their way into the bunkhouse. Emma had spent all afternoon preparing a meal of meat and potatoes. Gathering around the table, idle chit-chat filled the air. Kid could sense a nervousness that ran through the riders. He didn’t want that, but he didn’t know how to stop it.

He knew that they were all on edge, waiting to see what Sam would do. None of them wanted to believe that Sam was cheating on Emma, but they didn’t want to rule it out either. Kid listened quietly as Cody relived one of his many tales of adventure that happened during a run. Kid often wondered why it was only Cody that seemed to get those adventure runs all the time.

As time passed quietly, the conversations grew quieter. As the clock neared 6:30, Emma looked out the window, concern on her soft features. “I hope nothing has happened to him.”

Jimmy looked at Cody, a snarled expression on his face. He was going to kill Sam for hurting her the way he was. He looked at Buck and Ike, and raised his eyebrows in a ‘now what’ gesture. Ike only shrugged. He too was at a loss. Jimmy looked at Lou who kept her head focused on the table in front of her. She wouldn’t look up. Kid nudged her gently with his elbow to which she irritably brushed it aside.

“Well, I think we should go ahead and start without him Emma. He must have got hung up. I’m sure he will be along shortly,” Teaspoon said, licking his lips as he looked at the delicious smelling meat that lay on the plate in front of him. With his fork in one hand and his knife in the other, he was ready to spring on the meat at a second’s notice.

Emma looked longingly out the window one more time. “I guess you’re right. Besides, everything’s getting cold,” she said, wiping her hands on the apron tied to her small waist. She took her seat at the head of the table, next to Teaspoon. “Let’s eat.”

The riders were quiet all through supper, a rarity indeed. Emma was amazed at the lack of pranks or jokes that usually flew around the supper table. The riders seemed somber, even a little down. She looked at Teaspoon to see him savoring every bite of his meat, chewing each piece slowly as to enjoy every morsel. He smiled broadly, showing his approval of such a fine meal.

Lou felt her stomach weak. She couldn’t believe that Sam didn’t show up. She would never have expected that to happen ever. He always came when he said he would or else he came by to cancel. It was just the way it had always been.

She looked at the men that sat around her, men whom she thought of as brothers. As she looked in their faces, she could see the sadness that each one felt. Sadness as well as anger. They had all silently agreed not to say anything. At least not until they had a chance to talk to Sam.

After dinner, they decided to turn in early. Emma went back to the house, claiming that she was in dire need of some extra sleep. But as she left, Buck saw terrible sadness on her face, even though she tried to cover it up. Teaspoon turned in early too, claiming that he was so enchanted by the wonderful dinner that he had to go dream some good dreams.

As Teaspoon shut the door, Jimmy turned quickly to Kid. “Still don’t think he did anything wrong?” he asked abruptly, his anger gripping his heart. He couldn’t stand to see Emma so sad. He wanted to find Sam and kill him, friend or not. He looked over at Lou as she sat away from the rest of them. “You okay Lou?”

Everyone turned there attention to the quiet rider. She sat on her bunk, her back against the wall and her head resting on her drawn up knees. She looked up quickly, startled out of her thoughts. A great sadness rested on the young woman’s face. “I can’t believe that he didn’t show up.”

“Who’s turn is it for morning run?” Kid asked, knowing very well that is was his, but not wanting to miss the opportunity to talk with Sam. He was afraid to send Jimmy in there alone, without someone to try and keep his temper under control.

Cody smiled at Kid, shaking his head. “You know it’s your run.”

Kid dropped his chin to his chest, thoughts racing through his mind. “Damn,” he said aloud, “don’t suppose anyone wants to take my run?” He looked around the room, only to be met with ‘not a chance’ looks. Smiling, “that’s what I thought. Just promise that you will hear Sam out before you do anything rash, okay?” Kid said looking from rider to rider, stopping on Jimmy. “Okay Jimmy?”

Jimmy looked at his closed fisted hands as they lay on the table. “I ain’t promising nothing,” he said, looking Kid right in the eyes. Kid tried to search for the truth of just how far Jimmy would go with this if good reasons were not established. Kid knew that Jimmy would at least hear him out. He knew he couldn’t ask for anything more than that.

The fact was that if Sam was cheating on Emma, he deserved whatever Jimmy or the others may do or say. Kid knew there was nothing he could do to stop it. “I’m going to bed. Night,” he said as he went to his bunk and laid down.

The other’s followed suit, each of them lying in their bunks. But sleep was far from their minds. Each rider lay thinking, going over the conversation or course of action that would ensue the following morning. None of them wanting to confront Sam, but none were willing to let it continue on unanswered for.

As the darkness of the night lulled the young riders to sleep, their thoughts drifted away from them. Most falling into simple dreams while others slept with a dreamless night.

Kid was up and ready for his run at the crack of dawn. Going to the barn to get Katie saddled, he looked out at the morning sun as it crested over the eastern horizon. The sky was a clear soft blue. As the sun peeked it’s way into the sky, it threw off an array of colors, all subtle. Light pinks, yellows and oranges cascaded across the horizon line. Kid loved having early run because he loved the sense of awakening that the sunrise left in him.

Mounted comfortably atop Katie, Kid stared at the small sliver of sun as it began to grow. In the distance, he could see Justin galloping in. He pulled his jacket up around his neck and readied himself for the exchange. He wanted to get back as soon as he could, in order to keep tabs on what was happening with Sam. ‘I just hope they know what they are doing,’ he said to himself as he reached out for the saddle bag and headed for Fenton.

The others were up fairly early as well, quickly dressing before heading for breakfast. They still had morning chores to do and they didn’t want to alert Emma to the fact that something was wrong. After breakfast, they quickly did what chores were absolutely necessary before heading in to town.

“Jimmy!”

Jimmy turned to see the woman he had come to love a great deal, hurrying over to them. Emma smiled, glad that she caught them before they left. Handing him a list, “can you boys pick up these few things for me?”

Jimmy forced a smile, looking lovingly at the small woman who stood before him. “Sure Emma. We’ll be back in a little while.” He looked at the others with a questioning look. He hated not telling Emma about Sam. He knew she had every right to know. But he couldn’t help feeling that Sam just wouldn’t do that.

Turning his horse, he readied himself to ride. “Oh and if any of ya see Sam, tell him to come see me today,” she said, a soft understanding smile on her face. Jimmy smiled, looking long and hard at her. He would kill Sam if it was true. That’s all there was to it.

“Will do,” he said before kicking his horse into a gallop, the others close behind him.

Hannah stepped out on to the boardwalk, a smile resting on her face. “What shall I do first?” she asked herself as she surveyed the small buildings all around her. She needed to visit the dress shop, the general store, and she also had intended to take Sam some lunch at the jail. She brought a hand up to shield her eyes from the bright afternoon sun. Seeing that the dress shop was the closest to the hotel, she decided that it was as good a place to start as any.

People passed by the young beauty, some smiling at her while others didn’t seem to notice. That was all right with her. She was just happy to be there. Turning her face up to the clear blue sky, she inhaled deeply on the fresh clean air. She felt so free and alive.

"Afternoon Ma'am."

The deep southern drawl startled Hannah. Jumping, she turned toward the voice and smiled. "Afternoon," she said, her voice cheerful and bright to the black clad cowboy that stood on the boardwalk beside her.

The tall stranger eyed her intently, but Hannah failed to notice. Instead, she turned back toward the street, the man all but forgotten as her thoughts drifted to the previous nights' events. "The West is certainly different than what I ever could have imagined," she thought to herself with a smile.

Sam had taken her to Seneca to get a few personal effects that Tompkins's store didn’t offer. While there, the two had shared a wonderful dinner, reminiscing about old times. Hannah wanted to hear everything about the West and Sam’s new life in the small town of Sweetwater.

He talked about life as a hired gun, the tough choices he had made and the mistakes he had paid for. He talked of his new job as Marshall and how much it meant to him. Hannah watched his face light up when he spoke of Emma Shannon, the woman that he loved, and how he couldn’t wait for Hannah to meet her. He also talked of her riders and the Pony Express.

Hannah was in awe of her brother’s experiences. Growing up in the boarding school, she had led a sheltered life. Her only dealings with the ways of the West were from books. But she thrived on adventure, never quite quelling her curious nature.

While they were at dinner, gun shots rang out through the town. Hannah was horrified. She had never actually heard a gun being fired before. Sam ran out to see what was going on, Hannah close behind. As they stepped out into the dusky late afternoon, they saw a man laying on the ground, blood seeping from a hole in his shoulder. A few feet away, another man lay dead, his blank eyes turned toward the heavens.

Hannah had never seen a dead man before. Standing in the middle of the dusty street, she stood staring at the still form. Except for the fact that he wasn’t breathing, a person would have never known that he was dead, never to wake up again. Hannah felt the finality of the situation weigh heavy in the air.

Sam went to check on the hurt man. Hearing the light conversation between the two men, Hannah walked slowly to her brother’s side. She drew back her lips in a grimace, seeing the blood that oozed out the older man’s shoulder. I

t turned out that the shot man was Seneca’s Marshall, Jack White, a good friend of Sam’s. With Hannah’s help, they were able to get the Marshall home and the doctor out to check on him. They had stayed with him for several hours until Mrs. White could return home from her relatives.

It was an exciting, if not frightening, evening for Hannah. Marshall White had carried on all night, telling her tales of gun battles and ambushes, of Indian attacks and drunken brawls. Sure she would never want to stay in such a foreign environment after hearing all of what Jack had to say, Sam was glad to leave when Mary White finally arrived home.

As they rode slowly back, Sam had questioned Hannah about her feelings toward the West. She smiled lovingly, wrapping her arm around his as he held the wagon reins. “I think this is quite an adventure Bo.”

Sam shook his head. “You know Hannah, it ain’t all exciting like that all the time. That’s why they keep us Marshall’s around for, to keep the peace. I just want you to be sure this is where you want to be,” he said, afraid that she would be too uncomfortable to stay.

She laid her head on his shoulder, staring up at the millions of stars that littered the night sky. “Bo, I can’t think of a single place I would rather be.” She looked at him, her eyes taking a seriousness to them. “I know that things like that happen, and I understand that it happens when people come looking for it. You don’t have to worry about me big brother. I don’t think I’ll be going into any saloons anytime soon and starting a brawl.”

Sam looked quickly at his little sister to see the teasing in her smile. He couldn’t resist a smile in return. “I just want you to know that there are lots of good people out here. It’s safe, you know. I would never let anything happen to ya,” he said, putting an arm around her shoulders and squeezing her tightly.

“That’s why I’m not worried. I know you are here, and besides, I like it here. It’s fresh and new, and it’s time that I started to live,” Hannah said as she kissed her brother on the cheek.

Rubbing her arm gently, Sam sighed. “I can’t wait for you to meet Emma. I just know you two will get along great. Plus there’s the boys. They are.....” Sam stopped, the wagon rolling to a halt as well. Hannah sat up, looking at her brother curiously.

“Bo, what is it? What’s the matter?”

Sam closed his eyes, slapping his palm to his forehead. “I plum forgot. Dammit!” he said, flicking the reins to get the horses moving again. “I was supposed to have dinner at Emma’s tonight.”

Hannah’s eyes grew big. “Oh Bo, I’m so sorry. I didn’t mean....”

Sam cut her off. “It ain’t your fault. I just forgot. I was so caught up in you being here and then with Jack getting shot. Ah hell,” he said, looking at Hannah and seeing the guilt that his little sister felt. “Don’t worry. I’ll talk to Emma in the morning; explain everything.”

Putting his arm back around her shoulders, he pulled her back to him so that her head rested once again on his shoulder. “When I tell her about you, she will understand. She’s always wanted to meet you.”

Surprised, she looked up at Sam. “You told her about me?”

Sam laughed. “Course I did. Why would you think that I wouldn’t?”

Hannah shrugged, a big smile on her face. “I don’t know.”

They rode the rest of the way back to town, simply enjoying each others company. Hannah watched the millions of stars dance across the blackened sky. She felt safe, comfortable, loved. She was with her family, and that was something she hadn’t had in a long time.

She smiled to herself as she thought fondly about the previous night. A bond had already begun to form between herself and Sam, one that she would cherish forever. Sighing, she turned toward the dress shop. “It’s going to be a very good day,” she said as she thought about getting to meet the woman that had captivated her brother so.

As she started down the boardwalk, she noticed a group of men heading her way. Sam had taken it upon himself to warn her, at least a dozen times during the course of the previous day’s events, to be leery of the men in town. “Most of them do not have good intentions,” he said warningly, making sure that she understood.

She looked the motley group over, and was intrigued. She hadn’t met any boys her own age in town at all. In fact, she was beginning to wonder if there were any. As the group drew closer, she looked from man to man, taking in every detail.

One of the men walked ahead of the others, his face full of disdain. “I wonder what has him in such a huff,” she thought to herself as she watched the confident way he walked. His long brown hair hung loosely under the flat brimmed black hat he wore. Hannah took in the strong handsome jaw and dark eyes of the stranger.

Behind him were four other men, following close behind. To his right was a small, spry boy with short brown hair and wire rimmed glasses. His frame was small and his face soft. If Hannah didn’t know any better, she would swear that the young man was actually a young woman. But why she would masquerade as a man was beyond anything Hannah could understand.

To the small boy’s left was a lanky looking young man dressed in a heavy tan fringed buckskin coat. Blond hair hung in his eyes as he stayed focused on whatever it was that had all their attention.

On the other side of the charging fellow was a tall Indian man. Black hair, tucked neatly behind his ears, hung down brushing lightly against the black vest that he wore. His eyes were dark and looked full of turmoil. As she looked him up and down, she saw the knife sticking from his boot and the gun belts that hung around each of their waists, and wondered why the men were so heavily armed.

As Hannah turned her attention to the last of the men, she smiled in spite of herself. She felt her heart beat quickened at the sight of the handsome man. His face was full of a mixture of anger and sorrow, but his eyes held wonder. He wore a red bandanna tied around his head, his skin tanned and smooth.

Hannah couldn’t stop her eyes from trailing down the young man’s well built body. He wore a light tan coat and dark brown pants. The white shirt he wore was a stark contrast to his tan neck. Hannah’s eyes lingered at his face as she continued on down the boardwalk. “What a handsome man,” she said to herself.

All had the same look of disdain as that on the face of the leader, only some not as sure of it as the others. She wondered what had happened that had gotten five young men riled to the point that they were currently at.

As the young men approached her, she smiled a gracious smile, turning sideways to slip between the men. “Afternoon,” she said, trying to keep from staring at the one in the bandanna. Expecting the men to go around her, Hannah was startled to see them stop right in front of her. Suddenly, she realized that the look of disdain was meant for her.

She looked from face to face, wondering what had happened to have them staring at her so. “Afternoon,” she said again, the smile slowly slipping as the leader stood directly in front of her, his blazing eyes drilling holes into her soul. Hannah suddenly felt extremely uncomfortable with these men.

“Who are you?” he asked gruffly, barking it in her face.

Hannah drew back slightly at the force of his tone. She tried to look to the others for help, but he blocked her view.

“Hannah,” she said meekly, her heart racing from fear.

“What are you doing here?” he barked again, his expression never changing.

Something in Hannah clicked. She was not going to stand and be yelled at by someone she didn’t even know for reasons she was completely clueless of. She took a step back before straightening her shoulders. Narrowing her eyes, she looked directly into his. “I don’t exactly understand what business it is of yours who I am or what I am doing in Sweetwater. Now,” she said, looking past Jimmy and the others. “If you will excuse me.”

She started to walk past Jimmy when he grabbed hold of her arm, his fingers digging into her soft tender flesh. “Where’s Sam?” he said, his face only inches from hers. Cody grabbed Jimmy by the arm. “Let her go Jimmy. Ma’am, we just wanted to talk to ya,” he said, trying to keep the situation from getting out of control.

Jimmy pushed Cody away from him, his eyes never leaving Hannah’s. “I asked you a question. Where is Sam?”

Hannah knew she owed this man nothing, but she was terrified. She could see the raw hatred in his eyes. “Why? Are you gonna hurt him?” she whispered, barely audible over Jimmy’s ragged breathing.

Jimmy felt momentarily confused. She seemed so innocent to what was going on. Either she really didn’t understand or she was a fantastic liar. Whatever the reason was, he didn’t really care. “Tell me where he is and tell me now.”

Ike felt his heart go out to the scared young woman. He didn’t know how it had ever gotten as far as it had, and he had a terrible feeling that they had made a mistake. But getting Jimmy under control was like stopping a stream engine with no brakes.

When they had arrived in town, they stopped in front of the saloon and tied up their horses. They weren’t really sure what they should do at first, but Jimmy was determined to find Sam and confront him. “Jimmy, you can’t go flying off the handle at him. Sam ain’t gonna sit and listen to that,” Cody said, trying to reason with the stubborn rider.

Jimmy stood in the middle of the street, his hands hanging to his sides as he looked from building to building. Slowly, he turned to Cody, a dangerous look in his eye. “I don’t care if Sam wants to listen or not. He’s gonna listen.” Ike looked over at Buck and could see the same expression on his best friend’s face. Jimmy was too wound up.

“Jimmy, we agreed that we would let Sam speak his peace before we go getting all upset,” Lou said, pulling her glasses out of her breast pocket and putting them on. She glanced quickly to Buck and Ike, looking for some additional support.

“That’s right Jimmy, we need...” Buck started, but was cut off.

“We don’t need nothing!” he said gruffly, his cold calculated gaze biting into Buck’s resolve.

“Ain’t that the woman?” Cody said, staring at the hotel at the end of the street. All five riders turned to see Hannah coming out of the hotel, a smile on her face.

“That’s her?” Jimmy said, looking from Cody to Lou to Buck. “You sure?”

~She looks kind of young.~ Ike signed, his movements smooth and fluid.

“She’s the one all right,” Cody said, eyeing the beauty as she stood in front of the hotel.

“Let’s just have a little talk with her.” With that said, Jimmy was on his way to the boardwalk.

The remaining four riders were frozen to their spots. “Talk to her?” Lou asked, a puzzled look on her face. She turned to see Jimmy walking toward the mysterious young woman. “Oh no,” she said as she ran after Jimmy. This was not good. She could feel it.

The other riders followed, running to catch up with Jimmy as he strode toward the woman. Ike looked up to see the young woman looking at them, a curious expression on her face. He almost stopped where he was, feeling captivated by the young beauty.

Never had he seen such a woman. Her long strawberry kissed brown hair fell in soft curls down her back. She had a smile that would melt a thousand winters, rosy cheeks that gave way to soft dimples.

As they neared the young woman, his heart began to beat stronger. Her skin was a creamy white, so smooth that Ike was sure if he touched it that it would feel like silk. She cocked her head to one side as she seemed to be sizing each of them up.

What really made Ike’s breath catch in his chest were her amazingly bright hazel eyes, green and brown and flecked with gold all at the same time. But there was so much emotion and curiosity in the young woman’s eyes. She had an innocence about her that made Ike feel weak in the knees.

He looked over at Buck, who seemed not to notice anything but the beating of his own heart. Ike could tell that Buck too felt that something wasn’t quite right. Looking over at Cody, Ike saw the same look of awe that he knew he also wore. Cody walked with his mouth hung open, his blue eyes fixed attentively on the young woman.

When Jimmy had first confronted her, Ike wanted so bad to grab him and pull him away. She didn’t deserve to be talked to like Jimmy was. Ike wasn’t sure what was going on or what Buck and the others had seen, but he knew it all had been a misunderstanding. She knew nothing of what they were talking about.

When Jimmy grabbed her by the arms, Ike could see the first tears as they fell down her pale cheeks. Cody had grabbed Jimmy by the arm, trying to get his attention. But Jimmy only shrugged him off.

“I asked you a question,” Jimmy had yelled, causing not only the girl but Lou and Ike both to jump a little. Finally unable to take anymore, Ike put both arms around Jimmy’s chest, trying to pull him back from the girl.

“Ike, get the hell off me!!” he yelled, still holding tightly to the young woman’s arms.

“Hickok!”

All five riders turned at the sound of Sam’s voice. Coming out of Tompkins's, Sam ran across the street, confused as to what was going on. “Bo,” she cried, trying to pull her arms out of Jimmy’s grip. Jimmy looked from Sam to Hannah, and loosed his hold.

Her arms finally free, Hannah jumped down from the boardwalk and ran to Sam, falling into his open arms. Sam wrapped his arms tightly around the scared young woman, whispering quietly and kissing the top of her head. Stroking her hair, he looked up at Jimmy, fury in his eyes. “What the hell do you think you are doing?”

The riders stood on the boardwalk, their resolve breaking apart with each passing minute. Ike watched as Hannah’s body racked with sobs, her face buried to Sam’s chest. He stepped down from the boardwalk and took a step toward Sam. “Don’t Ike,” Sam warned, his voice full of contempt.

Putting his hands on Hannah’s shoulders, he pulled her back so that he could see her face. “Hannah, listen to me.” She looked up at him with big frightened eyes. She was confused and hurt and lost. It broke his heart to see her like that. He wiped at the tears that clung to her cheeks, taking her face in his big hands. “I want you to go back to your room. I need to talk to these fellas.”

Hannah shook her head up and down. “Okay,” she said so softly Sam almost didn’t hear it. Wiping at her eyes, she managed a quick side glance at Ike before she took off running back to the hotel. Ike watched her leave, his mind full of confusion.

“Mind telling me what the hell that was all about,” Sam said through clenched teeth as he approached Jimmy. He stopped two feet from the riders, his hands resting on the gun belt slung low on his hips. “Jimmy, you had my sister scared half out of her mind, and I want to KNOW WHY!!!” he yelled, his brow furrowed.

“We know all about.....” Jimmy started to return the yell when what Sam had said began to sink in. “Your what?” he said as he looked Sam straight in the eye. His once clear mind was now filling with jumbled images. He looked quickly to Cody and Lou who had the same look of shock that he knew he had.

“Yeah Jimmy, that was my sister that you had in tears. She was terrified and you sure as hell better have one damn good reason for it or we are gonna have some serious trouble.”

Jimmy opened his clenched fists, flexing his long fingers. Putting his hands on his hips, he hung his head down, his chin resting on his chest. “Did ya hear that Cody? Lou?” Jimmy stood up straight, shaking his head. He turned toward Buck. “Did ya hear that Buck? His sister.”

“What the hell is going on?” Sam yelled, his patience wearing thin. He had spent all night the previous night telling Hannah how much she was going to love the riders only to find Jimmy yelling in her face.

“Sam,” Jimmy started, trying to find some words to explain the whole misunderstanding. “I swear, I didn’t know. I thought.....well, um....Cody saw you kiss her yesterday and we thought.....” He didn’t even know how to finish.

All five riders stood with their heads hanging down, their eyes fixed on the ground in front of them. ‘That poor girl,’ Lou thought to herself as her stomach felt weak. ‘What have we done?’

“Saw me kiss her? What are you boys doing? Spying on me?” Sam asked, exasperation in his voice. He was worried about Hannah. He had never seen her so frightened before. Jimmy started to talk, but he stopped him. “Don’t even say a word Hickok. I don’t want to hear it.” He looked over his shoulder at the hotel, thoughts of how to handle the situation finally coming into place.

“Here is what we are gonna do. I’m gonna check on Hannah. You five are going back to the way station. As soon as I’m sure that Hannah is all right, I’ll be out there to talk to Emma about this. I let her decide what to do with you all,” he said, shaking his head. He had never been so disappointed in anyone as he was those five.

“Sam,” Lou said, afraid to speak. Sam shot her a daggered glare, but didn’t not tell her to be quiet so she continued on. “Can I go talk to her? Tell her how...”

“NO, absolutely not,” he shouted, dumbfounded that Lou would even suggest it. “You all have done enough.” He turned and started toward the hotel. Glancing back over his shoulder, he saw them still standing there. “I said GO,” he yelled, as he turned back to the task at hand, checking on Hannah.

Jimmy shook his head. He brought his hands up and wrapped them around the back of his neck as he looked up toward the sun. “I swear...I know better than to listen to you Lou.” Looking at the small woman, “this is the second time you done this to me, the last time with Sarah.” He shook his head as he headed for his horse. ‘Emma is going to be so mad,’ he thought to himself as he mounted his horse, the others following behind him. “I’ll learn,” he said as he turned his horse and headed for the station.

Ike stood with his back to the bunkhouse as he looked around at his friends. None of them had spoken much since they had returned to the way station. Sam had arrived twenty minutes after they got back, heading directly for the house. Now they all were awaiting the wrath known as Emma.

“You think Hannah will ever forgive us?” Cody asked, staring at the ground in front of him. He was sharing the bench with Jimmy, his hands clamped loosing together in front of him. He looked up at Buck who was leaning against the porch roof support. Buck barely noticed that Cody had spoken. He was lost in his own thoughts.

“Why Cody?” Lou asked, curious as to what he was thinking.

Cody smiled, his eyes a bright blue. “She sure is pretty, don’t you think?”

A collective groan rang out over the group. “Cody,” Lou said, punching him in the leg. “Is that all you think about?” Lou shook her head. Turning back to the open land that surrounded the way station, she smiled when she realized she could see Kid in the far distance. She stood up, brushing the dust from her pants. “Rider coming.”

The riders all turned as Kid rode in. Jumping off his horse, he looked toward the house and saw Sam’s horse tied to the fence. Looking back at the glum faces, he feared that his worries had been warranted. “What happened?” he asked, holding Katie’s reins tightly in his hands.

Lou shook her head, pulling her well worn hat down low. Looking at Kid from underneath it’s brim, she could see all the questions that were rolling around in his head. “Turns out it was Sam’s sister.”

Kid felt as if he had been slapped. He didn’t even know Sam had a sister. Sam had never mentioned her before. With his hand on his hip, he looked at the ground in front of him, considering the matter. Finally, he looked back up.

“Well, at least you talked to Sam first. Could have gotten real me...s...s....” he stopped. Jimmy looked up at him, guilt written all over his face. Kid turned to Buck, only to find his attention placed on the surrounding land. Turning to Ike, he found him with his head down, his left foot bent back resting on the bunkhouse wall. Cody was holding his head in his hands. As he turned to Lou, he felt like he could read the entire situation in the sadness and shame that lay in her eyes.

“Aww man, don’t tell me you talked to the girl?” he asked, looking directly at Lou. She immediately broke eye contact, looking down at her hands. “You did it, didn’t ya Jimmy? What did ya say? What happened?” He waited for someone to reply, but was met with only silence. “Well?”

Lou glanced at Jimmy over her shoulder and could see that he wasn’t going to volunteer any information. Sheepishly, she looked back at Kid. “It was awful,” she said as she filled Kid in on the details of the morning’s events. By the time, she was finished, Kid sat on the bunkhouse steps, his head in his hands.

“God Jimmy, you probably scared the girl to death. How could you just charge in like that?” he said, thinking only of Emma. She was in a terrible situation because of their lack of thought. Kid stood, his hands on his hips. Just as he was about to continue on with his rant, they all heard the front door of the house open.

All eyes turned to see a fuming Emma come barreling down the steps of the house, Sam following close behind. Slamming the fence shut behind her, she strode with a vengeance to the fearful group.

“Buck, saddle me a horse,” Emma said, her voice on the verge of becoming a yell. Stopping in front of the remaining riders, she stood for several minutes, her hands on her hips and her lips pursed tightly as if holding back all the things she wanted to say. The riders began to shift uncomfortable.

The silence hung heavy over the group. Jimmy would have rather had her yelling and screaming than not saying anything at all. Looking up at her, he saw the disappointment that she had in her eyes. Just as he opened his mouth to talk, she stopped him.

“Don’t even say a word Jimmy. Not one word.” She scrutinized each of them in turn, her heart heavy with sadness that her riders would hurt someone so badly without finding out the facts. She thought she had taught them better than that. “I’m going to town to try to talk to Hannah. She has been through a terrible ordeal over the last month and you boys just succeeded in completely alienating, not to mention terrifying, her.”

She stopped and waited to see if anyone would challenge anything she had to say. Hearing nothing, she continued on. “When I get back, I want to see this place shine. I want the stalls in the barn cleaned, I want all the rest of the wood chopped, and I want the bunkhouse to sparkle. I’m going to try and talk Hannah into giving us.....giving me another chance.”

Buck brought her horse out and quickly moved to rejoin his friends. Taking the reins, she started to mount, but stopped. Turning back to the riders, she sighed. All six riders looked up at once, the sadness in that sigh apparent to them all. “On one hand, it warms my heart that you all would be so concerned over the justice in my personal relationships.” Glancing over at Sam as he rode up beside her, “but I just can’t understand why you didn’t come to me or Sam with your concern. Why physically harm an innocent young girl? Jimmy, not only did you scare her with your tirade, but you left bruises all over her arms. Are you happy with yourself?” She climbed up on the horse, putting the reigns in her lap. “I thought I taught you all better than that.”

Hannah stared out the window of the small hotel room. Looking out to the barren lands that surrounded the town of Sweetwater, she wondered if there would ever be a place she could go that she wouldn’t be judged before given a chance. A tear slid down her cheek as an image of the angry man’s face filled her mind.

“What had I done?” she thought to herself. She always expected to be treated harshly at the prestigious Westlake Academy, but not out in the West. She had foolishly thought that people were different, more willing to give a person a chance. But that man acted as if he knew her, that all those men knew her. And they hated her. The anger she had seen in his eyes scared her far more than she had even let on to Sam.

Biting back a sob, she folded her arms across her chest, the hopeless feeling in the pit of her stomach growing like an unwatched fire. She let her eyes fall to the empty alley that ran beside the hotel. Broken whiskey bottles and crumpled papers lined the ground as a darkly clad cowboy walked gingerly toward the street. Hannah sighed as the stranger glanced up, steel gray eyes meeting hers and for a moment she saw something so familiar in his eyes.

Rubbing her hand across her arm, she winced, breaking the absent gaze that she held with the stranger. Instead she lifted up her sleeve, seeing the ugly purple bruises caused by the man’s fingers and once again, she fought back a sob.

Pressing her fingertips to her lips, she stared out at the small rolling hills that surrounded the small town. She saw only loneliness in the deserted area, and wondered if that was what her heart looked like. She certainly knew that was what it felt like.

A knock at the door startled Hannah out of her thoughts. She quickly brushed the fallen tears from her cheeks. Running her hands across her light blue dress, she cleared her throat. “Come in Bo,” she said loudly, knowing that it was her brother.

Sam opened the door slightly, peering in to make sure she was presentable. “How ya doing kiddo?” he asked as he crossed the small room and placed a kiss on her forehead.

Hannah smiled, trying to be convincing. “Bo, I’m fine. I was just a little shaken up is all.”

He searched her eyes for the truth, strongly hoping that it was. He smiled, placing another kiss on her forehead. “Good. There is someone that I want you to meet.” Sam stood aside, leaving Hannah facing a young woman. “Hannah, this is.....”

“Emma Shannon,” Hannah said, finishing for him. Hannah was in awe of the woman that stood before her. Sam had done nothing but talk of her. And every word he had said was true. She just as beautiful as he had described.

She had soft fiery red hair, pulled loosely back in a bun. Her friendly face held a warm smile, her green eyes equally caring. She was small in frame, but held a strong, independent presence.

Hannah moved forward, her hands held out. “Miss Shannon, it’s an honor to finally meet you. Bo has done nothing but talk of you,” Hannah said, feeling a kindness that seemed to radiate from Emma. Hannah took Emma’s hands in her. Leaning forward, Hannah placed a small friendly kiss on her cheek.

Emma laughed lovingly. “Please Hannah, call me Emma. It’s quite a pleasure to finally meet you as well. Sam had told me so much about you that I feel as if I know you already.” Emma looked into the young woman’s brilliant green eyes. She could see a sadness there that was far from the charismatic appearance she projected.

“You’ve grown to be quite a lovely young woman,” Emma said, gently rubbing her hand down Hannah’s arm. Emma could see the questioning look that rested on Hannah’s face. She laughed. “How would I know, you ask?” Looking past Hannah to Sam, “Sam always carries your picture with him. Has ever since I met him.”

“You do?” Hannah asked, a look of wonder on her face as she turned to her older brother.

Sam smiled. “Course I do sweet pea. I even got two of them, but one I got in a real nice frame that Emma gave me on my desk at the jail. The other I got right here,” he said as he dug in his back pocket, producing an old worn picture. He looked at the picture lovingly before handing it to Hannah.

Hannah watched as Sam smiled broadly, looking at the picture in his hand. When he held the picture to her, she could see that same love in his hazel eyes. She took the picture and held it in both hands, gasping slightly when she realized when it had been taken.

She was eight years old in the picture. Hannah could remember that day like it was yesterday. They had gone to the carnival, just her and Sam; just like it always had been after their parent’s death. They had watched all the performances and had laughed like she couldn’t ever remember laughing since.

When they were getting ready to leave, Sam had paid to have the picture taken. Hannah always felt that Sam had known that day that he was leaving for the West. She never blamed him though. Why would a twenty year old boy want to take care of an 8 year old. She had been grateful that he had stayed with her as long as he had, having raised her by himself since she was three.

Hannah ran a finger over the picture as her mind played back those long ago memories. She let a tear slide down her cheek. Quickly wiping it away, she looked up at Sam and smiled. She threw herself in his arms, hugging him tightly. Sam wrapped his arms around her in return.

Pulling herself out of his embrace, Hannah turned back to Emma. She smiled. “Please excuse me Miss Shannon. I never realized that Bo still had that picture.” As if a second thought, “You said there were two. What is the other one?”

“It’s one of you at a dance recital.” Emma watched the emotions play on the young woman’s face. She could only image what was going on in her mind. “Hannah, would you mind if I talk with you for a little while? I would like the chance to get to know you more. If it’s all right you with, of course.”

Hannah looked over her shoulder to see the hope and eagerness on Sam’s face. She knew that Sam wanted her and Emma to get along almost as much as she wanted it herself. Smiling, “That would be very nice.”

Emma smiled. “Wonderful. Sam, why don’t you see if you can get us some lemonade from the restaurant down stairs.”

Sam agreed, kissing Hannah on the top of the head and Emma on the cheek before he flew out the door. Both watched as he left the room. They looked at each other and laughed. “He looked anxious to leave us alone,” Hannah said smiling as she pulled a chair out for Emma to sit in.

“Thank you Hannah,” Emma said as she sat down, motioning for Hannah to sit on the bed. “Well, how are you liking our little town so far? Sam tells me that you have never been out West before.”

Hannah shook her head. “No, actually I haven’t ever been anywhere but Martinsville. That’s where the academy was,” Hannah said, looking at her hands that were folded in her lap.

“Yes, I know. Sam and I went to visit with you last year, but they wouldn’t let us see you.”

Hannah’s eyes grew big. “What did you say?” She couldn’t have heard right. Why would they have not let Sam see her. She had wondered her whole life why he had never tried to stay in contact with her, except for a few letters over the years. The only way she even knew he was in Sweetwater was an address in Miss Mason’s personal journal.

Emma looked surprised. “They said you had gone with Miss Mason to St. Louis. Didn’t they tell you that we were there? What about the gift that Sam left for you? Did you ever get the music box?”

Hannah felt her head swim. Thoughts raced threw her mind. Why would they have done that? She couldn’t understand. “I never heard a word about it. And I certainly never went to St. Louis.” Hannah looked back down at her hands, slowly wringing them. “They didn’t like me much at that school.”

Emma’s heart ached for the young woman. There was so much turmoil that she was dealing with. Emma didn’t want her to deal with it alone. She leaned forward, taking Hannah’s hands in hers. “I know you may not feel comfortable around me yet. But I hope that we can change that.” Looking deep into Hannah’s eyes, “I will be here for you whenever you are ready to talk. Please remember that.”

Hannah felt suddenly very aware of the quietness in the room. She wanted to open up, to share everything that she had carried with her for so long. But she knew it wasn’t quite the right time. Just then, they heard a soft tapping on the door.

“Can I come in?”

“Yes Sam,” Emma said, a smile across her face. “You can come in.” Hannah marveled at how milky white Emma’s skin was. It was smooth and silky looking, sparsely dotted with tiny red freckles.

Sam set the lemonade down on the table, rubbing his hands unconsciously on his pants. “Listen, I need to go talk with Barnett about a couple of things. I’ll be back in a little bit, okay?” he asked, looking from Hannah to Emma. From the closeness of the way they sat, Sam felt that they must be getting along fairly.

“Go Sam,” Emma said, shooing him out of the room. She laughed as she shut the door behind him. Turning back to Hannah, “now, where were we?”

“Bo tells me that you run the way station with a bunch of riders. What’s that like?” Hannah asked, the curiosity getting the better of her. It was a rarity that a woman be allowed to hold that much responsibility in the times that they were living in. Hannah marveled in Emma’s strong will.

“Well, I’ll tell ya. Them boys can be a handful sometimes. Like what happened with you today. Jimmy is awfully....” Emma could see the strange, confused look on Hannah’s face. “Is something wrong dear?”

Hannah was puzzled. “Jimmy? What happened with me?” Slowly, it began to dawn on her what Emma was saying. “You mean that man that did this,” Hannah said, pulling up her sleeve to reveal the dark purple bruises on her arm, “was one of your riders. Were all them boys your riders?”

Emma felt horrible. The events of the morning still fresh and painful in the confused woman’s mind. “Yes Hannah, Jimmy and those boys are my riders. I can’t condone what Jimmy did at all. It was inexcusable the way in which he treated you. I can only say that he feels horrible. See, it was all....”

Hannah stood up quickly, knocking over the glass of lemonade that Sam had handed her before he had left. Her heart ached. Why would he do that? Looking at Emma, “he never even gave me a chance.” Tears began to fall as she tried to move from the spot where she stood.

Emma wrapped her arms around Hannah, rubbing her back gently. “Wait Hannah. Shhhh, let me explain,” she said softly, rocking the hurt woman in her arms. Hannah pushed a little for Emma to let go, but not enough to actually break the hold. Emma knew that she really didn’t want her to let go.

Once it seemed that Hannah had calmed enough, they sat back down. Emma took Hannah’s hands in hers. “It was all such a horrible misunderstanding. Three of my boys saw Sam kiss you on the cheek. They didn’t know who you were, had never seen you before so they automatically assumed Sam was being unfaithful.”

Hannah sat with tear filled eyes, watching Emma closely. There was something so comforting in the way that Emma spoke. Hannah absorbed everything she said about the events that lead up to the early morning fiasco.

“He never would have caused you any harm. His temper just gets away from him sometimes,” Emma said, shaking her head. She looked down at her hands. “If it’s any consolation at all, Jimmy fells so horrible. They all feel horrible.” Emma looked up with sadness in her own eyes. “And I understand if you don’t ever want to see them...or me again. It’s within.....”

Hannah was completely caught off guard. She never expected Emma to say that. “Emma, why would I not want to see you or those boys again? I was very hurt at first, one because I was terrified. I’m sure that Sam has told you that the only thing I have ever experienced was the academy. I’ve been very sheltered. I know that,” she said, offering Emma a heartfelt smile.

She looked down at the floor, biting her lip as she thought of how to begin. “I guess the other was that they were the first people in Sweetwater that I had actually seen that were my age. And when Jimmy started yelling at me, I felt like the outcast that I always was at school.” Hannah sighed heavily. She felt tired. The whole day had taken a lot out of her.

As if an after thought, “the one fellow with the red bandanna did try to stop Jimmy. I was grateful for that,” she said, smiling as she thought of the handsome young man. She had felt an immediate spark when she had seen those clear blue-green eyes of his.

Emma smiled. “That was Ike. He’s a good boy,” she said, thinking lovingly about the riders. “In fact, they are all really good boys when you give them half a chance.” Emma looked up at Hannah with hopeful eyes. “They really want to make it up to you.” She waited to see if Hannah would flat out protest. When she remained quiet, Emma continued. “Would you come out to the way station and have supper with us?”

Hannah considered the offer carefully. Looking out the window, she could see the sun slipping behind the horizon line as the afternoon slowly slipped away. She thought about the one Emma had called Ike and his beautiful blue-green eyes. She thought about the chance to get to meet all of them, the one she knew had to be a girl. She certainly couldn’t believe that Emma would invite her into a situation where she would be hurt. Sam could never love someone that would be that cruel. Besides that, Hannah felt a comfortableness with Emma that she hadn’t felt ever. Seeing the hopefulness in her eyes, Hannah smiled. “I would love to.”

Emma clapped her hands together, throwing her arms around Hannah and hugging her tightly. “Hannah, that’s wonderful. You won’t regret it. You’ll love the boys. They are quite charming when they want to be,” Emma said, her mind going directly to Cody, knowing that he would certainly have his eye on the beautiful young woman.

Emma looked out at the darkening sky. “I going to go back to the station. You get some rest. You looked tired. I’m sure today took a lot out of ya,” Emma said, a caring smile on her face. “Why don’t you have the hotel draw you a bath so that you can relax. Then you and Sam can come out tomorrow for supper.”

‘A bath,’ Hannah thought. ‘That does sound like a great idea.’ She considered the slipping sun. “Emma, you better get Sam to ride with you back to the station. Sam said that it was a short distance out of town. With it getting dark and all, you....” Hannah looked up to see Emma smiling broadly, a look of ‘I had planned on it’ resting on her face. “You already got that covered?”

Emma laughed. “Yes, Sam is gonna ride with me and then take you to get some supper.” Turning, she started toward the door. She stopped and turned back to Hannah, a concerned look on her face. “Hannah, I can’t tell you how happy I am that you are here. Sam is thrilled beyond imagination. So am I.” Walking back to Hannah, she put her arms around the young woman and squeezed her gently.

Hannah was a bit taken back by the emotional display at first, but felt such comfort in her genuine nature. She returned the hug with equal vigor. Emma opened the door, and turned to leave. “Emma.” she called, as Emma began to pull the door shut. Opening it back up, Emma looked in. “Thank you,” Hannah said, her eyes full of gratitude.

Emma smiled at the confused, lost young woman. “Sleep well dear,” she said as she again pulled the door shut. Opening it back one last time, “by the way, why is it that you call him Bo?” Emma asked, having never heard Sam mention it.

Hannah laughed softly, a big smile that revealed her small dimples. “I’ll tell ya tomorrow at supper. Deal?”

“Deal,” Emma said as she pulled the door shut.

“So what’s she like?” Lou asked as Emma hung up the wash. Emma had given them all extra chores as punishment for the interference with Hannah. Lou had been cleaning out the stalls in the barn, but had taken a short break. She stood drinking from the ladle, sweat dripping from the young woman’s face.

Emma looked curiously at Lou. She knew that Lou was often quite lonely herself, being the only girl with a room full of boys all the time. It wasn’t easy for Lou. Emma also knew that since the boys had found out she was a girl, they started treating her different and there wasn’t a thing that anyone could do to change it.

“She’s a nice girl Louise. She’s sweet and friendly. But she’s had a rough time since she was kicked out of her school. You’ll like her I’m sure,” Emma said, seeing the curiosity in Lou’s eyes.

Lou stared straight ahead, contemplating what Emma had said. “Emma, why’d she get kicked out of her school? She didn’t seem like no troublemaker or nothing.”

“Well, from what Sam has said, when he left Missouri, she was only eight. He couldn’t care for her so he begged a friend of his parent’s, someone who had periodically helped him and Hannah out after their parent’s death, to care for Hannah. Her name was Miss Mason. She was a dance teacher at the Westlake Academy.”

Emma looked at Lou to see her transfixed on the story. When Emma stopped, Lou turned quickly. “And?” she asked, her eyes pleading for Emma to continue. Lou didn’t know why she wanted to know so much about Hannah for. There was just something about her that made Lou curious. Some of it was because Lou hadn’t been around many girls her own age. But the other was the terrible sadness that she had seen in Hannah’s eyes, something very deep.

“Miss Mason lived at the academy and was able to work it out so that Hannah was allowed to attend the school. I don’t know if you have ever heard of it Lou, but Westlake is a very rich, high society school. From what I gather, most of the kids that attended the school didn’t much like Hannah ‘cause she was poor. Miss Mason was only a teacher and made a modest wage.”

“But Hannah is strong. She continued with her education, learning everything she could, reading every book she could find. And she studied dance.”

Lou turned quickly to Emma. “Dance?” she questioned. The idea of being able to dance like those people in the ballet she had seen in St. Joseph one time when she and Kid had gone was something so unreal to her.

“Yeah, Miss Mason taught her everything she could. Hannah took all her classes and spent all her time practicing. Well, last month, Miss Mason died. Hannah was lost. Sam said that Miss Mason was not that much of a loving person to Hannah, but she was all that Hannah had. When Miss Mason died, the school took the opportunity to throw her out without warning. They said that if she couldn’t pay that she didn’t belong there.”

Lou felt her heart ache for the woman that she had yet to meet. “What did she do? Is that why she came here?”

“Yeah, a housekeeper that worked at the school, who was quite fond of Hannah, gave her money for the stage to send her to Sam. That was the only thing that she could do. Sam and Hannah have no other family but each other,” Emma said, laughing to herself as she watched the boys as they rough housed by the barn.

“And us,” Lou added, looking at Emma was certain eyes. Emma smiled, never more proud of Lou than she was at that moment.

“That’s right Lou. And us.”

Hannah stood looking at herself in the vanity. Scrutinizing her appearance, she considered changing her dress for the third time. ‘I wonder what they will think of me?’ she thought to herself as she felt her heart beating a little faster than usual.

Her pale green dress fit snugly around her small waist before opening up to a full skirt. The heart-shaped neck line flattered her soft white skin and revealed the small silver locket that she always wore, a gift from Sam when she was 7. She ran a brush through her long curls one more time, making sure the small flowery comb was firmly in place.

Running a nervous hand across the front of her dress, she brought both hands up to her stomach, trying to settle the butterflies that danced madly. She sighed, thinking about the handsome rider with the blue-green eyes. “Just be yourself Hannah,” she said to her reflection. “That’s all you can do.”

Knocking softly, Sam opened the hotel room door as he slipped his head in. He smiled seeing Hannah standing in front of the mirror, her nervousness expressed clearly in the lines that covered her crinkled up forehead. “Okay if I come in?” he asked as he opened the door all the way.

Turning to face him, Hannah smiled. “Of course you can.” She took one last look in the mirror, wanting to look just right.

Sam walked over to Hannah, and put his hands on her shoulders. Kissing her on the top of the head, “you look beautiful.” He stared at her reflection in the mirror, in awe of what an attractive woman she was growing in to. “You look just like Mama.”

Hannah’s eyes widened in surprise. She looked at Sam in the mirror, then back to her own reflection. “Really?” she asked, a look of wonder crossing her face. Hannah was only three when their mother died. She had no real recollection of her at all, only what Sam had said over the years and one old worn picture. “You really think so Bo?”

Sam wrapped his arms around Hannah’s shoulders, hugging her lightly. “You sure do sweet pea. Just like mama.” His mind wandered back to those days long ago when their mother and father had still been alive. “You ready to go?”

Hannah looked at her reflection one last time. Taking a deep breath, she smiled. “As ready as I’m gonna get.”

They rode out to the way station in Emma’s wagon. Sam had brought it back to town with him the night before when he had seen Emma home safely. Hannah sat beside him, her hands folded in her lap and her heart beating loudly in her ears.

As the station came into view, Hannah marveled at the quaint house with it’s white picket fence. Next to the house was a large barn and corral. Hannah could see a stable full of magnificent creatures roaming around in a pen. On the other side of the corral was what she determined to be the bunkhouse. ‘Must be where the men sleep,’ she thought to herself as she saw an older man standing with Emma by the house.

Sam reigned the wagon to a halt as Hannah watched the riders come out of the bunkhouse to stand on the porch. She could feel all eyes on her as Sam gave her his hand to help her down. Turning her attention to Emma, she smiled as Emma approached her.

“Hannah, you look so beautiful. Thank you for coming,” she said, hugging her tightly. Emma was radiant in the late afternoon light, her high collar blue shirt and long flowered skirt accentuating her gracious figure. “I want you to meet Teaspoon Hunter.”

Hannah held out her hand to the older gentleman, looking him over curiously. His face was warm, his smile twisted into a friendly grin. She could see the many years that had played on his face, sure that he had seen more in his life than anything Hannah would ever see in ten lifetimes.

Teaspoon took her hand and kissed the back of it gently, his hands then resting on his dark blue suspenders. “My, my Sam, you didn’t tell us she was so pretty.” Leaning in, Teaspoon smiled his crocked smile. “I’ll be sure to have a talk with him about that.”

Hannah laughed despite her nervousness. She leaned back in toward Teaspoon, a playful smile on her face. “I’ll help ya with that little talk.” Teaspoon laughed heartily as he held his arm out to her. “Shall we? I’m starving. You know, Emma makes a mean pot of stew,” he said, shaking his head matter-of-factly.

Taking the arm offered to her, Hannah laughed. “Is that so? I’m always ready for some mean cooking,” she said returning his jest. Teaspoon placed a hand on hers and headed toward the bunkhouse.

Sam and Emma exchanged a comfortable glance. Emma was certain that things would go good. ‘Leave it to Teaspoon to put even a nervous grizzly at ease,’ she thought to herself as they headed for the bunkhouse.

Ike looked around the sparkling bunkhouse. Him and Buck had done everything. Emma had made them wash nearly every surface in there before the morning was over. Now admiring his work, he straightened his vest. Glancing quickly in the small mirror that Lou kept under her bunk, Ike made sure that his bandanna was straight. He wanted to look nice when Hannah arrived.

Ike had seen the way that Cody had looked at her too. He had heard all of Cody’s comments about how pretty he thought she was. Ike knew that if Cody really wanted something, he was persistent. And from what Ike could tell, Cody wanted Hannah.

But that didn’t stop Ike’s heart from beating faster when he thought of her brilliant green eyes. And it didn’t stop his palms from sweating when he thought of her coming for supper. Even if Cody did get her attention, Ike just wanted a chance to get to know her. ‘Who knows’ he thought to himself, a smile on his face. ‘Maybe Cody won’t get what he wants this time.’

He heard a laugh from behind him. “Ike, what are you doing?” Turning quickly and dropping the mirror behind his back, he saw it was only Buck. Smiling, he replaced the mirror back under the mattress where he had found it. Buck stood with his arms crossed on his chest, his head cocked to one side.

~Don’t sneak up on people~ Ike signed, a smile on his face. He ran his hands down his shirt, wiping any wrinkles out of it. Walking past Buck, he headed outside to wait for Sam and Hannah to arrive. As he passed, Buck quickly grabbed his arm.

“She’s quite pretty, isn’t she?” he said, eyeing Ike carefully. Buck had seen the way that Ike had looked at her when they first saw her. He had noticed the way Ike had smiled as he took in her every movement. He had seen the sadness in Ike’s eyes when Hannah had begun to cry.

Ike looked at his best friend, a knowing exchanging passing between them. An image of her face flashed through his mind and he blushed slightly. Dropping his eyes to the floor in front of him, he knew it was silly to be so smitten with a woman that he really hadn’t even met. But he was about to and that excited him.

“Thought so,” Buck said as he clapped Ike on the back. The others had already gathered on the bunkhouse porch, watching as Sam and Hannah stood at the house with Emma and Teaspoon.

As Ike looked up at the scene in front of him, he felt like his breath was stuck in his chest. He stood with his mouth open as Teaspoon walked arm in arm with the radiant beauty. Ike felt weak in the knees as she looked up at them and smiled, her eyes so bright and full of hope.

Ike took in every detail of the young woman as she stood before him. Her pale green dress made her eyes even more green that he imagined was possible. Her hair was pulled back from her face, the back falling freely in long curls. And her smile....Ike was in awe.

“Boys,” Teaspoon said, as he stood with Hannah on one arm and the thumb on his other hand hitched around his suspender. “Let’s do this again, all proper like this time.” He looked at Jimmy as he spoke. Jimmy held his head down, a slight blush on his handsome cheeks. “This is Hannah Cain, Sam’s sister.”

Hannah felt like her heart was in her throat. She smiled looking from rider to rider, trying to make eye contact. “Hi everyone,” she said softly, feeling like she was completely exposed with everyone’s eyes on her.

“Hannah,” Teaspoon said, pointing to each rider in turn. “That’s Buck.” Buck leaned forward, greeting her with a warm and friendly smile and offering her a hand. Hannah shook it, eyeing the quiet man curiously. She could tell that he was an Indian, but it didn’t look to her that he was full blooded. “Kid,” Teaspoon continued on. Kid smiled and nodded his head. Hannah could see a strength to the tall dark haired man. She returned the smile. “This here is Lou,” Teaspoon said, pointing to the smaller rider. Lou stood with her hands shoved deep in her pockets. She smiled awkwardly as she pulled her hand out and offered it to Hannah. Hannah watched her closely, knowing that Lou was definitely a woman. She could see it in the small rider’s eyes and smile. Grabbing her hand and shaking it firmly, a quiet acknowledgment seemed to pass between the two young women.

As Teaspoon moved to Cody, he stepped up before Teaspoon could continue. “William F. Cody, at your service,” he said, a charismatic smile on his youthful face. He took her hand and placed a gentle kiss on the back of it, bending slightly as he looked up at Hannah with amazing blue eyes. ‘This must be who Emma was referring to yesterday when she talked about them being charming,’ Hannah thought as she smiled.

She felt her heartbeat quicken as Teaspoon moved on to the one she had been waiting for. “This is Ike.” Hannah’s gaze connected with Ike’s and didn’t let go. She leaned forward, a bashful smile on her pretty face.

“It’s a pleasure Ike,” she said as he took her hand in his. Hannah felt her knees weak from the strong touch of his hand, his grip lingering a few seconds longer than the others. As she pulled back, she watched as Ike began moving his arms in smooth, easy movements. Curious, she watched as his hands made different shapes and motions. She looked up into his trusting eyes. Finally realizing what he was doing, she smiled. “That’s sign.”

Ike looked surprised to see her smile as she said it. Most people that he met always acted as if he had a disease when they found out he used sign. He smiled, shaking his head. “He can’t talk. Never has. Do you understand sign?” Lou asked, watching Hannah with innocent fascination.

Hannah reluctantly pulled her gaze from Ike’s. Turning to Lou, she smiled. “Well, I know a little. I have read some books about it. But I’ve never really used it before.”

“This is Indian sign,” Teaspoon added, knowing that Hannah was referring to conventional sign language. “But some of the signs are the same.”

Hannah listened to Teaspoon before turning back to Ike. “Well, I may be able to understand some of it. But I can always learn,” she said, dropping her eyes bashfully as she felt her cheeks grow slightly red with a blush. “I mean if you will teach me.” She looked back to see Ike nodding his head vigorously, an eager smile on his handsome face.

“And this here is Jimmy.”

Hannah stood before the embarrassed young man, his head hanging down. “Look Hannah, I apologize for what I did yesterday. It was all a mistake.” He looked deep into her eyes, his shame so apparent to Hannah. He offered her a apologetic smile and then handed her a small bouquet of flowers. “These are for you.”

Hannah took the flowers, drawing deeply on their lovely fragrance. “You sure it’s okay if I take these?” she asked questioningly. Jimmy looked up at her, surprised by her uneasy question, only to be met by a playful grin. “I’m just teasing. Thank you Jimmy. They are lovely.”

“Well, now that’s done,” Teaspoon said, pulling on his suspenders. “Let’s eat. I’m starving.”

The riders laughed, Jimmy shaking his head. “Teaspoon, you’re always hungry.”

Hannah took a deep breath as they entered the bunkhouse, smiling nervously at Sam as he slipped his muscular arm around her waist. The small bunkhouse was like nothing she had ever seen before. Beds lining the outer edges of the walls and a big wooden table sat in the center of the room. A large black stove stood against the only open wall, its looming form like a watcher over the small domicile.

As the riders began taking their places at the table, Hannah stood uncomfortably by the door, not sure where she should sit. Before Hannah could ask, Lou resolved the young woman's conflict by grabbing her hand, and pulling her to the table. “Here. Sit here,” Lou said, her eyes sparkling as she looked up at the young woman.

Graciously Hannah followed, relieved to have been selected where to sit rather than having to choose. But just as she had begun to relax, she felt her body stiffen once again as Ike sat down at the table beside her, offering her a shy and awkward smile. Hannah couldn't help wondering what it was like for Lou to spend so much time with the riders, all of whom were attractive in their own right.

But her musings were interrupted as Emma set the food on the table, backing away quickly. Amazed by the speed with which the riders dove in, Hannah couldn't resist laughing as she watched them inhale their food, shoveling it in quickly and talking in between mouthfuls. 'Definitely not like the dining hall at Westlake,' she thought to herself, savoring her first mouthful of Emma's delicious stew.

All evening the conversation remained light and comfortable, often falling to Hannah and Sam. Questions were asked about her childhood and what Sam had been like. “Bo was such a sweet brother,” Hannah said, smiling at Sam as she talked. She could hear the questions whispering between the boys from her calling him Bo. “He used to always take me with him where ever he went. Not many brothers would do that with a much younger little sister.”

“Hannah, you said yesterday that you would tell us why you call him Bo,” Emma said as she happily watched the ease with which they all were getting along. Hannah looked at Sam who just shook his head. Sam had never really liked being called Bo when they were younger, but as he grew, the name sort of grew on him too.

Hannah laughed. “I’m sorry. It’s such a habit to call him that, I forget I do it most times.” She could feel Ike’s eyes on her as she dared to steal a glance in his direction. Their eyes met for a brief second, an innocent curiosity passing between them, before she returned her attention to the group.

“It’s nothing really exciting,” Hannah said, feeling all eyes on her. “When I was a child, I could never pronounce my R’s.” Hannah blushed slightly as she looked at Sam. “He was always trying to get me to say ‘brother’, but it always came out ‘bother’. No matter what he did. He would always say ‘bro Hannah, bro.’ To which I always replied ‘bo’. Eventually he gave up, but it just seemed to stick. After awhile, it was always Bo.”

Hannah looked sheepishly around the table to see if anyone was laughing at her. She was met with warm smiles. Jimmy looked over at Sam. “Does that mean we can call you Bo too?” he asked teasingly.

Sam threw his head back and laughed heartily. “Just try it Jimmy and see what happens.”

The conversation continued well after the meal had been finished. Teaspoon pushed away from the table, patting his round belly as he did. “That was another splendid meal Emma. Anyone up for some coffee?” he asked, groaning as he stood up.

A collective yes rang through the group. Emma stood up, gathering the dishes as she did. “I’ll help you with that Mr. Spoon.” Sam stood too, helping Emma collect the dishes. Hannah stood up to help with the dishes when Lou grabbed her hand “

You want to see our horses?” Lou asked, eager to talk to her new friend. The boys were talking about some big adventure that Cody had been on while the adults were gathering up dishes and talking quietly amongst themselves. Hannah smiled, shaking her head yes. “Good,” Lou said, turning to Emma. “We are going out to the corral. Holler when the coffee’s ready.”

They stepped out into a dusky evening, the darkness of night slowly closing in. Lou turned to Hannah, excitement in her eyes. “We have some real pretty horses. What kind do you have?”

Hannah inhaled deeply on the evening air. It was so warm still, even as the sun set on the western horizon. “I don’t have one. To be honest, I’ve never even ridden a horse before.”

Lou stopped, staring at Hannah as if she had just grown a new head. “You have never ridden a horse before? How come?”

Hannah had expected Lou’s reaction, especially given the fact that Lou’s life revolved around her horse. “We had a stable at the school I went to, but I never got to ride. Anywhere I went, we rode in a wagon.” Shrugging her shoulders, “just never had the opportunity I guess.”

Lou took Hannah’s hand and squeezed it gently. “We’ll have to teach ya.” Lou pulled her into the barn, lighting a lantern as they went. As they approached the back stall, Hannah could see a proud smile cross Lou’s face, a sparkle in her eyes. “This is my horse. Ain’t he nice?”

Hannah stood with her hands on the wooden gate that led to the stall. “Oh, he’s beautiful,” she said as she stared at the magnificent brown creature. Lou turned and stared lovingly at the horse. “Did you just get her?”

“Yupe,” Lou said, pride bursting from every seam. “Bought her with my own money too. Her name is Chestnut.” They stood in silence, staring at the horse for several minutes.

“Lou, can I ask you a question?” Hannah said, looking at the ground in front of her.

“Sure,” Lou said, happy to have someone to talk with. She had been around the boys for so long, that she almost forgot what it was like to have a normal conversation. Their usual talks revolved around shooting or riding, and not much else in between. She turned to face the young woman, her foot resting on the bottom wrung of the stall gate.

Hannah looked up and met Lou’s eyes. Smiling, she wondered how to ask. “Um, do they know you are a woman?” Hannah asked, not wanting to over step her bounds. She could see the smile slip from Lou’s face, only to be replaced with an embarrassed look.

“How did you know?” Lou said, turning toward her horse. Lou could feel her face turning red. Her first thought was to lie, to tell her it wasn’t true. But she knew that Hannah could see past her false facade. She wondered if Hannah would think badly of her for trying to be a boy.

Hannah smiled, taking Lou’s hand in hers. “Just a feeling I guess. It’s in your eyes. Women see things differently than men do. I don’t mean to be nosy.” She could feel Lou pull away from her. “I can understand why though. I know that The Pony Express will only hire men. Is that why you do it?”

Lou looked at Hannah to see her face filled with understanding. She hadn’t judged her like most women did. If anything, it seemed that Hannah felt closer to Lou to be able to share her secret. “It’s hard for a woman in the West. Not much we can do, but be wives or whores. I needed the work so I made myself fit what they needed.”

“Do the others know?” Hannah said, sensing that Lou was beginning to feel more at ease with her intrusion.

Lou shook her head. “Yeah, they all know. People in town don’t though, well except for Sam.”

“It must be exciting sometimes to be able to be someone else,” she said dreamily as she watched Chestnut come closer to her. Lou reached up and began petting the horse’s nose. Hannah looked at Lou, eagerness in her face. “Can I touch him too?”

Lou laughed heartily. “Sure you can. Pet him right here,” she said as she took Hannah’s hand and placed it on Chestnut’s nose. Hannah was in awe of the majestic creature. She had read all about horses and had spent many hours staring out the library window, watching the wealthy girls when they went on rides.

Lou watching, a smile on her face as Hannah stroked Chestnut’s nose. She felt comfortable with the young woman, a bond already beginning to form as Hannah looked at Lou with amazement as the horse nibbled on her hand. Leaning forward, Hannah placed a small kiss on the horse’s nose.

Turning to Lou, she brushed her hands against her skirt. “So tell me how you can be around all those handsome boys and not fall madly in love, ” Hannah said with a twinkle in her eyes.

Lou laughed at the thought of falling in love with Cody or Buck or the others. They were so much like brothers to her. She couldn’t even imagine it. But an image of Kid came into her mind and a shy smile took over her face as she lowered her head.

Hannah laughed gleefully, grabbing her hand. “So there is one.” She looked around the barn for some place to sit. Seeing an empty stall, she pulled Lou over and sat down in the soft hay. “Tell me.....which one,” she said eager to hear about someone else’s love since she had none of her own. “Wait,” she said as Lou sat down next to her. “Let me guess.”

Lou shook her head and waited to see who she would pick. Hannah thought about all the men that she had met and the way in which they had acted at dinner. Buck and Ike seemed to interact with her like a sister, often hitting her on the arm. Cody was a bit more of a possibility, but it seemed that he had been trying awfully hard to get her own attention so she didn’t think it was him. That left only Jimmy or Kid.

“I bet it’s Kid,” she said finally, looking at Lou for reassurance. A big smile broke out on the young woman’s face. Hannah laughed, clapping her hands together. “I’m right, aren’t I.” Lou shook her head yes.

“He’s cute, don’t you think?” Lou asked, her heart swelling with love when she thought of Kid. “How did you guess?”

“He is very handsome. I noticed the way he kept looking at you when we were eating supper. When you talk, he hangs on your every word,” Hannah said, running her hand through the soft hay that they sat on.

Lou smiled broadly, her cheeks turning pink as she brought her hands up to cover her face. “No, he doesn’t,” she said leaning forward, her head resting on Hannah’s knee.

Hannah ran her hand over the young woman’s hair. “Yes, he does.”

“Hannah! Lou!”

Lou sat up quickly, not wanting their talking to end. She took both of Hannah’s hands in hers. “You sweet on any of them yet?” she said, knowing how sweet and charming the other riders could be.

Hannah stood up, pulling Lou up with her. Wiping hay off of her bottom, she smiled as she turned to leave the barn. “Oh no you don’t,” Lou said playfully as Hannah stepped out of the barn. She caught up with her as they walked up to the house. Everyone was already sitting around the steps, drinking coffee. Lou grabbed her hand, “our secret, kay?”

Hannah smiled, winking at her new friend. “For life or longer.”

“Besides, I already know who you’re sweet on,” she whispered as she opened the gate. Hannah looked at Lou with wide eyes, her mouth hanging agape.

“No, you don’t,” Hannah finally managed, following her up the walk.

“You don’t what?” Jimmy said, sipping his steaming cup of coffee.

“Nothing,” Hannah and Lou both said at the same time before breaking out into a fit of gigglish laughter. ‘There’s no way Lou would know who I am interested in,’ she thought to herself as she started up the stairs. Ike stood up from where he sat, offering his spot to Hannah.

Hannah was taken back by his thoughtful gesture. Lou grabbed her and Hannah’s cup of coffee and handed it to Hannah as she sat down on the steps beside her. “Do to,” she whispered, gently nudging Hannah in the arm.

Hannah could see Ike standing up behind her. Feeling guilty that she took his spot, she pushed Lou over, moving her closer to Kid. “Here Ike, there’s room for everyone,” she said, patting the open space on the stair.

Ike smiled shyly, nodding his head as he sat back down. He couldn’t help but see Buck staring at him, a knowing look on the Kiowa’s face. ~How’s your coffee?~ he signed, trying to make his signs slow and sharp to see if she would understand.

Hannah smiled, turning to face him. “Oh I see, you’re gonna test me.” She watched his movements closely, pulling from her memory of those long ago books. “My drink?” she asked, pointing to her coffee. “Do I like my coffee?”

Ike nodded, smiling at the look of concentration on her face. When she was right, she smiled coyly. “It’s good. I like coffee.” Taking the cup in both hands, she blew on the steaming brew. “Besides, it keeps me warm. Am I the only one getting cold out here?” she asked, looking around at the others. Ike was ready to jump up and run to get his coat when Sam wrapped his jacket around her shoulders.

“There you go sweet pea,” he said, running his hand along her hair.

Settling back into the porch swing, Sam wrapped his arm around Emma’s shoulders as she nestled herself to his chest. She was amazed at the complete change in Hannah since she had arrived at the house. Earlier she had been so stiff and proper, keeping to herself. But now she smiled with youthful excitement, laughing and joking with the riders like she had known them forever. It did Emma’s heart good to see her fitting in. She knew it was what Hannah had wanted more than anything.

“Hannah, what did you study at your school?” Jimmy asked as he laid back on the steps just below her, turning his head up so that he could see her, even if it was upside down.

“I studied dance,” she said as she looked down at the man that only yesterday had scared the life out of her. Now she felt as if they were already becoming friends.

All the riders turned to her at once, curious to that course of study. “As in that ballet stuff?” Cody asked, intrigued by the idea of seeing Hannah dance.

“Yeah, as in ballet. I started dancing when I was eight. I had an amazing teacher. She taught me everything that she knew. She had danced in New York. Can you believe that?” she asked, her excitement shining like a star in the sky as she looked over at Cody.

“Wow,” Lou choked out, unable to even imagine getting to see a city like New York. “Have you ever been to New York Hannah?” Lou asked, watching the dreamy look that Hannah had when she thought of dancing.

“Oh no. Not me. I always wanted to, but I haven’t been much of anywhere. Well, except for here now,” she said, offering her new found friends her only bit of worldly knowledge.

“We would love to see you dance some time Hannah,” Emma said, her head resting on Sam’s shoulder. Hannah nearly choked on her coffee, coughing as she tried to clear her windpipe. Ike and Lou patted her back as everyone laughed.

“Emma, you got her all choked up,” Cody laughed, his blue eyes sparkling like diamonds.

Finally back in control, Hannah felt her face burning red. “Maybe some day,” she said, knowing that she would never be able to dance in front of them. Her dancing was a private thing for her. She liked to throw her whole body and soul into her dance.

Ike could see the sheer terror that crossed her eyes when Emma had mentioned her dancing. He couldn’t help but laugh, knowing how terribly awkward that would be for her, still being so new to them and all. But he couldn’t help think of how wonderful it would be to see her dance. She was beautiful just sitting next to him, a big bulky coat draped over her shoulders. He could only imagine she would be even more beautiful when she danced.

Sam kissed Emma softly on the lips, nodding that it was time to go. They both stood up, Sam stretching his long arms over his head. “You ‘bout ready sweet pea?” he said, watching as Hannah and the riders talked softly.

Hannah stifled back a yawn, downing the last of her coffee. “I guess so,” she said, not really wanting to leave. She liked the comforting feeling that she had, surrounded by the riders with the enormous dark blue sky up above. The moon hung low on the horizon, and Hannah finally felt like she belonged.

She stood up, slipping her arms into Sam’s coat. The air had taken on a nip to it that Hannah wasn’t used to. “Who’s got morning run?” Emma asked, her arms crossed tightly to her chest. She too thought it was a touch cool.

“I do,” Jimmy said, not sounding too excited about it.

“Well, I suggest you get some sleep. It’s pretty late Jimmy,” she said, her voice taking on a motherly tone.

“I know. I’m going,” he said, standing up and stretching his arms over his head. Bending his head from side to side, it cracked several times. “Awww,” he groaned, smiling sheepishly. He turned toward Hannah as she stood at the bottom of the stairs. He opened his arms, looking at her for a hug. “You sure you forgive me?” he asked as she moved forward to hug him.

“Of course I’m sure,” she said, patting him on the back. “But you owe me,” she said playfully, pushing him toward the bunkhouse. “Now get some sleep.”

Cody was the next one by, a cocky grin on his face. “Do I get one too?” He held out his arms, waiting for his turn. Hannah laughed, hugging him briefly before pulling away. Cody smiled, his eyes full of mischief. “I’m in heaven,” he said as he headed on toward the bunkhouse.

Hannah pushed him playfully. “You are such a ham.”

Kid and the others laughed. “She’s only known you one day Cody and she’s already got you figured out,” Kid said as he hugged Hannah quickly. Winking at her, he smiled. “Glad you’re here.”

Buck grabbed Hannah’s forearm, shaking it strongly. “I can’t tell you how sorry we are for what happened yesterday. I’m glad that you gave us another chance.”

Hannah smiled. “That was the past Buck. But thank you. I’m glad that Emma invited us out here.”

Lou and Ike stood side by side as Sam and Emma talked quietly on the porch. Lou glanced at Ike as she walked up to Hannah and threw her arms around her. Whispering in her ear, “I know it’s Ike.” As Lou drew back, Hannah only smiled.

“For life or longer, right Lou?” Hannah said as she watched the young woman walk toward the bunkhouse. Lou turned back to Hannah, a smile on her face as she shook her head yes. Hannah turned back to face Ike, a smile on her face. As Ike approached her, she started to open her arms for a hug when he did something that caught her off guard. He took her hand and placed a gentle kiss on the back of it. Looking up at her, his eyes were filled with wonder and fascination.

~I look forward to getting to know you better~ he signed, his heart racing from being so close to the amazing young woman.

Hannah watched his signs carefully. “You like horseback riding?” she asked, not quite sure of some of his movements. He laughed, shaking his head no.

“He said he looks forward to knowing you better,” Emma said, Sam standing behind her with his arms around her waist.

Hannah laughed, laying her hand on Ike’s forearm. “I’m sorry. I blew that one. If you ever get a chance, you’ll have to teach me.” Her face was red, the blush burning through her cheeks. “I look forward to getting to know you too Ike,” she said as Sam came over and wrapped an arm around her shoulders. Ike nodded and headed for the bunkhouse, a goofy grin on his handsome face. “You ready?” he asked, rubbing Hannah’s shoulder briskly.

Hannah turned quickly and ran over to Emma. Throwing her arms around Emma, she embraced her tightly. “Thank you so much Emma. For everything.”

“You’re welcome darlin’. When you coming back over?” Emma asked, curious as to what her plans were.

Hannah shrugged. She hadn’t thought about that. “I guess tomorrow if that’s okay with you. Maybe I could help with chores,” she said, looking at Emma for approval.

Emma laughed. “I don’t think I ever heard anyone say they want to help with chores before.” Taking Hannah’s hands in hers, “you are welcome here any time you want. You don’t have to do any chores. Just bring yourself. That’s all we want.”

Hannah smiled. “Okay, see ya in the morning,” she said as she ran over to Sam who was patiently waiting in the wagon. As she climbed in, she waved at Emma. Looking back at the bunkhouse, she could see a shadow looking out the bunkhouse window and hoped it was Ike. She looked up at the now fully shining moon and smiled. It felt good to belong.

“Come on Cody,” Hannah said, pushing him playfully. “Let me try. I can do it.”

Cody turned his bright blue eyes on the beautiful young woman. With a smirk on his face, he shook his head. “Nah, you’re just a girl.” Cody looked back ahead, his smile covering his whole face as he glanced over at Ike. Ike looked at him with wide eyes, shaking his head as he laughed to himself.

Cody realized that she had gotten quiet beside him. He turned to see that she had stormed off. “Just like a girl,” he said playfully, smiling at Ike as he swung the ax, breaking the piece of wood in two.

Ike laughed at Cody’s arrogant behavior. Just as he was about to head back into the corral, he saw Hannah sneaking up behind Cody with a bucket of water in her hands. She put a finger to her lips, her eyes sparkling with mischief.

Cody was just pulling the ax out of the wood when he was doused with the cold clean water. A look of disbelief crossed his face as he turned to Ike, his eyes wide and his mouth hung open. Hannah erupted in a fit of laughter, her hand held to her stomach. “Just a girl, huh?” she said, standing triumphant with her hand resting on her hip.

Cody slowly turned his head toward the young woman, one eyebrow cocked. “Ooohhh, you are so dead,” he said, dropping the ax and running after the small woman. Hannah screamed when she saw him coming after her, laughing as she ran.

Ike watched from the corral fence. It was amazing to him the change in Hannah since she arrived. It had only been two weeks, but she was like a part of the family. Sam brought her out to the way station nearly every other day. She would help out with chores, often causing more trouble than good.

Lou had developed that greatest attachment to Hannah. They would often disappear for hours, always talking and laughing when they returned. Ike was glad too. He knew how hard it was for Lou not having any girl friends her own age. He had often watched them from a far when they went into the barn. They would sit and talk, laughing and sharing. He wondered how they always found so much to talk about.

He had also spent quite a bit of time with Hannah. She had come to him on several occasions, asking if he would teach her more signs. They would sit out behind the bunkhouse, the sun to their backs, for hours. She was tireless. He would show her a sign and she would have it memorized within minutes.

Ike cherished every moment that he spent with Hannah. She was like a breath of fresh air. She made him feel special. When they sat together, it was as if no one else existed. She talked of herself and of Sam, and asked a million questions of him. She seemed to want to know it all, everything that he had done, every place he had been, everything he felt.

Buck warned him not to fall too fast. Cody was still pursuing her relentlessly, but from what Ike had seen she had made no gesture to him that expressed anything more than just friends. Ike knew he should be careful in his mind, but his heart wouldn’t listen. He thought of her all the time, even trying several times to draw her as she sat with Lou or Jimmy or Kid talking about anything they were willing to share.

“I mean it Cody. Don’t make me hurt you,” she said, trying to be serious but laughing as the words came out of her mouth. Cody looked more determined than ever to catch the quick woman.

Hannah saw Jimmy walking toward them and ran for him, putting her arm around his waist as she hid behind him. “Jimmy, save me. Cody’s being mean to me,” she cried through fits of laughter. She ducked behind Jimmy’s arm, holding tightly to the back of his shirt.

“I’ll protect ya,” he said playfully, grabbing Cody in a headlock and wrestling him to the ground. The two wrestled around, the upper hand switching every few seconds. Hannah took the opportunity to get away. Brushing her hair out of her face, she half walked-half jogged to the corral fence where Ike stood.

“Whoa, that was close,” she said, a smile permanently etched on her face. Her bright green eyes shined like jewels in that afternoon sun. Ike stood on the inside of the corral, winding a rope around his arm. He was just about to have a second try at the new stallion that Teaspoon had recently bought. He smiled, watching the way her curious nature got the better of her.

She put her arms on the fence railing, laying her chin to rest on them. She stared at Ike, taking in every detail of his handsome face. ~What are you doing?~ he signed, his curiosity piqued.

“I like to watch you when you work with the horses,” she said, cocking her head to one side. Ike felt his pulse quicken. Even just being near her made him feel like there was nothing he couldn’t do. “I’m not bothering you am I?”

He smiled. ‘If only I could tell you,’ he thought as he smiled widely. Shaking his head, ~You never bother me.~ The minute he finished it, he could feel his cheeks burning. Hannah smiled bashfully, batting her long thick eyelashes. As he watched her, his heart melting from her smallest gesture. He wanted so badly to kiss her.

Knowing that was out of the question and blushing more profusely for even thinking it, he turned back to the task at hand which was breaking in the new horse. As he turned to the majestic animal, he could feel her eyes still on him and for the first time, he didn’t mind being watched. It actually even made him feel good.

Forcing his mind to focus on the spirited black stallion, he tried to determine a way to mount the animal that refused to allow him to even get on. It had taken him all morning just to get the saddle tightened.

Hannah loved watching him when he broke horses. She had spent a great deal of her time over the last few weeks, standing by the corral simply watching for hours on end. She loved the way he stood before the animal, the statue of determination. She loved to watch his fine, muscular body tense in anticipation as he neared the jittery animal.

She watched as he stood, comfortingly rubbing the scared horse's nose. Slowly, he was able to mount the animal, only to have it erupt in a wild fit of bucking. Unprepared for the outburst, Hannah gasped in horror as Ike sailed through the air, landing on the ground with a resounding thud.

“Ike,” she screamed, ripping open the gate and running to his side. Hannah dropped to her knees, gathering him up in her arms. The horse still bucked wildly around the corral, snorting and whinnying. Pulling him up so that his back rest against her chest and thighs, she protectively wrapped her arms around his head, arching her back and bracing for any impact from the horse.

“Ike, Hannah!” came Buck’s screams as he ran to the slowly calming horse. Venturing to look, Hannah raised her head slightly to see that Buck was finally getting the horse under control. She turned her attention to Ike as she unwrapped her arms slightly.

His face was turned up to hers, his eyes searching her soul. Hannah smiled, seeing that he appeared to be unharmed, save for a small cut on his temple. Tracing every inch of his face with her mind, Hannah realized that his lips were a mere two inches from hers. She could feel his hot ragged breath on her lips, and she ached to taste him. She could see that he was considering the same as his eyes visually outlined her lips. Licking her lips in anticipation, she felt herself being slowly drawn to him.

“Hannah,” she heard and felt herself being pulled up from the ground. Buck had grabbed Ike’s arm and was helping him to his feet. “I gotcha Hannah.” She recognized Cody’s voice as she felt herself being swept up into his arms.

“Cody please, I’m fine,” she said as he carried her outside the corral and to the bunkhouse porch. Gently he set her on the bench. “Cody, really. I’m fine,” she said, taking the probing hands and holding them in hers. “Thank you.”

She could see the look of concern on Cody’s face as he looked her over to make sure that she wasn’t injured. Her heart went out the eccentric rider. Cody smiled a grand smile, shaking his head. “You foolish woman. You could have been killed.”

Buck sat Ike down on the bench beside her. “She okay?” he asked of Cody, concern marring his handsome face.

“Yes Buck, I’m fine. Thank you though,” she said, as she turned to Ike. Seeing the blood that trickled from the gash on his temple, she pulled her handkerchief from her pocket and gently pressed it to his head. He winced in pain, drawing slightly back in spite of his desire to have her so close. “Are you okay?” she said, placing a finger under Ike’s chin and turning his face to meet hers.

He sighed as he looked into her brilliant green eyes. Looking up at Cody, he could see him staring, transfixed on Hannah. Ike could tell that he was love struck with the amazingly spirited woman. He looked back at Hannah and nodded yes. ~Thank you~ he signed, knowing that if she hadn’t risked her life for him, he may have been seriously injured.

“Ike, Hannah.”

They looked up to see Emma running toward them from the house. Her face was a mask of fear. “I heard the commotion. What happened? Is everyone okay?” She could see Hannah covered in dirt, a small trial of blood on her white blouse. “My God Hannah, you’re bleeding.”

Hannah’s eyes widened as she followed Emma’s eyes down to her blouse. “No Emma, it’s okay. It’s from Ike’s cut. I’m fine, really.” Emma pulled Ike’s hand away to see the gash across his temple. “Ouch, come here Ike. Let me get that cleaned up,” Emma said, taking him by the hand and leading him into the bunkhouse.

“You sure you’re okay Hannah?” Cody asked, taking Ike’s vacant seat. He took hold of her hand, cupping it in both of his. Caressing the back of it, he looked up bashfully, gazing deeply into her eyes. “I was so worried when I seen you on the ground like that. What made you do such a fool thing like go into the corral with a wild horse loose anyway?”

Hannah stared at Cody’s hands. Watching the way he was rubbing it, she began to wonder just exactly how he thought of her. She connected her gaze with his, only to find his sweet blue eyes staring back at her. Hannah quickly looked up at Buck to see a look of indignation as he turned and went into the bunkhouse.

Hannah slipped her hand out of Cody’s, quickly patting him on the leg. “Thank you Cody for your concern. I am grateful for you pulling me out of the corral. I just didn’t want to see Ike get hurt is all.” Standing, she offered him her hand. “Let’s go make sure he’s all right.”

Reluctantly, Cody took it. It wasn’t that he didn’t want to make sure Ike was okay. Ike was his friend and he cared deeply for the quiet rider. It was just that he wanted to take the opportunity to spend some time alone with Hannah. Between Lou and the other riders, Hannah was never alone for very long. Someone was always with her. Not that he could blame the others for wanting to be around her. There was something so magnetic about her, something that just drew a person to her.

Standing up, he followed her into the bunkhouse. Sighing, he thought of the way she had felt when he held her in his arms. A lop-sided grin crept on to his charming face. He would just have to be persistent. “‘Cause what William F. Cody wants, William F. Cody gets.”

Hannah sat on the old pine desk, her feet swinging gingerly. Staring out the jailhouse window, she watched the people passing by. She wondered where they were all going. Some she knew lived in Sweetwater, having seen them many times since her arrival. Others looked like drifters, moving from town to town.

An older, dust covered cowboy dismounted his horse and tied it up in front of the saloon. Hannah watched as he checked his guns and adjusted his hat as he made his way into the already lively establishment. ‘I wonder where he came from?’ she thought to herself for no reason at all.

Staring at the entrance to the saloon, Hannah contemplated the world around her. Since she had come to Sweetwater, she had done and seen things she had only dreamed of before. She had finally been able to live. And now, she was learning how to deal with love. She smiled as she thought of Ike, his gentle smile and expressive eyes. He was everything she had ever wanted. The way he looked at her made her feel like she was something special.

“What time is it Bo?” she said, growing impatient while she waited for Lou to arrive.

“It’s ten minutes later than it was the last time you asked me sweet pea,” Sam said, laughing to himself. He loved the change in his baby sister. She had taken to Emma and the riders just like he knew she would, especially to Lou.

Hannah rolled her eyes at her brother, turning her attention back to the window. That was when she noticed him, for what seemed like the tenth time that week. A tall lanky cowboy was leaning against the outside wall of the saloon. He wore black pants and a long black duster, a gun belt hung low on his hips. He stood with his arms shoved deep into the pockets of his duster.

“He’s just a man,” she thought to herself, trying to dismiss the individual from her mind. But something wouldn’t let me. It wasn’t what he was wearing that bothered her; everyone wore guns, even the riders. And it wasn’t that he was outside of the saloon. She had nothing against the saloon. She had even gone into it with Sam once after much begging. No, what caused the tinge of panic in Hannah was that several times over the last five days, he always seemed to show up where ever she was. And every time she saw him he was always doing the same thing, leaning against the wall and staring, his dark eyes seemed to be focused intensely on her as if he were looking into her soul.

An eerie feeling crept over her as she started to turn away just as she saw Lou riding up. “Lou,” she cried, running outside and throwing her arms around her best friend. “Bout time you got here.”

“Kid was buggin’ me,” she said, a bashful smile on her face as she entered the small jail. “Hi Sam.”

“Hey Lou. So what are you two up to today?” he said, as he swiveled his chair to face the exuberant girls. He put his dusty boots up on his desk, his fingers laced behind his head.

“I’m going to have my final fitting on my dress. And I’m gonna see if Miss Sadie can make me some pants. I get tired of wearing all this fabric,” Hannah said, blowing at a loose piece of hair. “Lou’s gonna get a dress too.” Hannah smiled, bumping Lou with her hip as she entwined her arm around Lou’s. “Isn’t that right?”

“I told you I don’t know yet,” Lou said smiling, her cheeks turning the softest pink. “What am I gonna wear a dress to anyway?” Lou shoved her hands deep in her pocket. She could hear Sam laughing playfully.

“Gotta get Kid to take you somewhere nice. Is that what yours is for Hannah? In case Ike wants to take you out?” he said, nudging her playfully.

Hannah’s mouth dropped open. “Bo! That is not your concern. I’ll have you know that Ike and I are just friends,” she said playfully as she turned her head in mock disgust. Linking her arm with Lou’s, “let’s go Louise.”

“Come back around 2 and I’ll buy you all some lunch,” he yelled after them as they walked out the door.

“Okay Bo.”

Turning to Lou, as they headed down the boardwalk, a curious smile on her face. “So what was Kid buggin’ you about?”

Lou looked at her. “You know Kid. He wanted to know what we were gonna be doing, if we were gonna be getting into any trouble, interrogating me.....you know, typical Kid stuff,” she said, rolling her eyes.

Hannah smiled, poking Lou in the rib. “You know you love it though. Don’t ya? You can admit it.” Hannah could see the light in Lou’s eyes when she talked about Kid. There was so much love between them that it warmed Hannah’s heart. She loved to see the way Kid was with Lou, so protective and caring.

Lou just smiled. Grabbing her hand, she took off at a slow run. “Come on. If we are late again like last time, Miss Sadie is gonna kill us.”

Hannah and Lou took off toward the dress shop, the warm afternoon sun on their backs. Both girls felt so free and alive. It was their time, so full of life. As they stopped in front of the dress shop, both giggled as they tried to catch their breath.

Hannah smiled as she opened the door, trying to recoup her feminine demure, the man in black completely pushed out of her mind. He was forgotten, but not gone as he stood across the street from the dress shop, watching and waiting for the time to be right.

“Do you think Kid’s gonna like that dress?” Lou asked, worried as she thought of the soft blue fabric that she had finally decided on. She hadn’t wanted to get a new dress. There wasn’t much call for it in Sweetwater. But when she saw the smooth satin bodice and the soft ruffle of lace, she had fallen in love.

Watching Hannah trying on her new dress didn’t help matters any. Seeing her in her new dress had made Lou want one even more. She looked marvelous. “Ike is going to love it,” she said as she ran her hand across the emerald green satin fabric.

“You really think so?” she said as she ran her hand across the small green beads that were embroidered to the bodice. The green of the dress made her eyes shine even brighter as she looked at Lou, so full of hope.

Lou gaffed as her best friend’s question. “He’d be crazy not to,” she said turning Hannah back toward the mirror. “It’s beautiful.”

Satisfied with the dresses, the girls quickly changed. “I’ll go ahead and make the last few changes. I should have them for you both by Wednesday,” Miss Sadie said, priding herself in the quality of her work.

“Thank you Miss Sadie,” they both said in unison as they opened the door. They looked at each other in surprise, before breaking out in a fit of laughter. “See ya Wednesday,” Lou said as she playfully pushed Hannah out the door.

Lou looked up at the afternoon sun as it was slipping it’s way across the clear blue sky. “What time were we supposed to meet with Sam?” she asked as she pulled the old pocket watch from her vest.

“At 2. Why?” she said, turning her face up toward the sun. She loved the way it seemed to tingle her cheeks as if it were awakening every pore on her face. Turning toward Lou, Hannah nearly jumped out of her skin as she realized that the man in black was standing just a few feet away from them.

“Afternoon Hannah,” he said, an awkward smile on his face. Hannah tried to muster a smile, wanting to be cordial even when her heart raced out of control. She didn’t know him, had never talked to him, and yet he looked at her as if they were old friends.

Lou could sense Hannah’s uneasiness. Turning to the man in front of them, she wondered how Hannah would know him. He certainly couldn’t have been someone from Westlake. His clothes were old and worn, the trial dust so ground in that the color had been permanently changed. Lou let her eyes trail all the way down the man’s body, stopping as she came upon his gun.

She stopped, again wondering why this man would be talking with Hannah. He was obviously a gun fighter, by the way his belt hung at a slight angle for easy drawl. The gun was well taken care off, looking as if it had been polished just recently, even when the owner of the gun hadn’t.

“Afternoon Sir,” she said, a forced smile on her face. “We must hurry Lou. Marshall Cain is waiting.” As she started past the man, he stepped directly in front of her.

“Where are you going Hannah? I just want to talk with you,” he said as he casually picked up a loose curl off of her shoulder, slowly running his fingers over it. “My name’s Dustin...Dustin Michaels, and I’ve been watching you for a long time Hannah, since you arrived. And I know that you have been watching me too. I understand that we have to keep our love a secret from your brother. I know he wouldn’t approve,” he continued as he twisted the curl around his finger, his eyes searching her innocent face.

Hannah was in such shock, she didn’t know what to do. She turned toward Lou to see the same expression glued to her face as well. Terror was beginning to take over. The more he started at her, the creepier it began to feel. His eyes held so much love and admiration, but she couldn’t understand why it was being directed toward her.

“I’m sorry Sir, but I don’t know you. Now if you will please excuse.....” she started to say, but was cut off by his shouts of rage.

“DON’T BE THAT WAY!!!” he yelled, his eyes closed tightly together. Hannah and Lou both nearly jumped out of their skin at the sound of madness that rang through his voice. When he opened his eyes, he was once again the model of composure. “I’m sorry love. Please forgive me. I don’t know what came over me,” he said, smiling as if it were all so perfectly normal.

Hannah’s mind ran in a thousand different directions. She didn’t know what to do. She wanted to yell for Bo to save her, to get this man away from her. She wanted Ike to hold her in his strong protective arms. But what she wanted more than anything was to get away from the crazed madman.

“I’ve been up to your room many times, wanting nothing more than to knock, but I always feared that your brother wouldn’t understand. You know....number 5 has always been my lucky number,” he said as he brought his hand up to her cheek, gently brushing the back of his fingers against it.

Hannah pulled back as a shiver ran through her body. She felt repulsed to have his hand’s anywhere near her; she certainly didn’t want them on her face. But she could see the change in his face as she pulled away and her heart stopped. Complete madness crossed the dangerous man’s eyes as he drew his lips back in a grimace.

It was so quick, neither Lou or Hannah ever saw it coming. In one smooth motion, he lashed out, the back of his hand connecting with Lou’s face as he knocked her backwards on the boardwalk. Hannah screamed, her silence finally broken. Turning to Lou, she felt his cold hands grab her arms, gripping them so tightly she thought for sure they would break.

She cried out in pain as he drew her to him, their faces only inches apart. She could smell stale cigars and old whiskey on his breath as he shouted in her face. “Who do you think you are? I love you. You should be grateful to me for that. I’m going to make you my wife,” he said as he forced his lips on hers, biting her bottom on to the point of drawing blood.

::BAMMMMMM::

The gunshot rang through the quiet afternoon. “Let her go,” Lou said, her voice strong and in control. Holding the pistol over her head from her first discharge, she brought it down and pointed it at the man in black’s crazed face. “I said let her go.”

The man in black shoved Hannah to the side. She was so close to the edge of the boardwalk that she tumbled into the street, her head bouncing off the bottom step. She landed in a crumpled heap, a broken yelp caught in her throat.

Sam heard the gunshot from the jail. He had just been dozing, thinking dreamy thoughts of Emma when it had brought him back fully awake. Grabbing his gun from the wall hook, he ran out on to the boardwalk to see Lou holding a gun on a tall man. Blood was dripping from her mouth as she held the gun to his face.

‘Where’s Hannah?’ he thought as he tried to register what was happening. Finally, his eyes found her, lying in the dirt of the street, not moving. Sam took off running. “Hey, what the hell is going on?”

The sound of Sam’s voice startled the man in black. He turned quickly to see Sam charging toward him. Panic setting in, the man in black swiftly knocked Lou’s gun out of her hand before disappearing beside the dress shop.

Sam ran passed Lou, unsure of what had happened, but not wanting to let the fleeing man get away. As he rounded the corner of the dress shop, he was met with only an empty alley. Sam looked around, visually checking all possible ways of escape but came up empty. Concerned for the girls, he ran back to the main street.

As he stepped on to the boardwalk, he could see Lou holding Hannah in her lap, quietly brushing Hannah’s hair off of her face. Blood flowed from a deep gash on the right side of Hannah’s temple as Lou softly rocked Hannah in her arms. She looked up as she saw Sam kneel down beside her.

“You okay Lou?” he asked, seeing all the blood in the young woman’s mouth. Lou looked up at him as if in a daze.

“I’m fine. Is she gonna be fine?” Lou looked frightened; her mild blue eyes were big and round. Sam reached over to check Hannah’s pulse. It was strong and her breathing seemed normal.

“I think she just knocked herself out.” Sam looked up to see Barnett, as well as half the town, standing over him. “Go fetch me the wagon,” he said to Barnett as he laid a hand on Lou’s shoulder. “We need to get to Emma’s. She’ll know what to do.” He looked closely at Lou’s mouth, the blood still dripping from her lip. “Did he knock out a tooth?”

Lou looked up at Sam, her mind still reeling from the shock of the whole situation. Finally allowing Sam’s question to sink in, “oh no, I bit into my lip. Damn bastard bit hers. Look,” she said, as she turned Hannah’s slacken face up to Sam. He could see the dark purple mark on the side of her bottom lip. Looking closer, he could even make out two teeth marks.

Sam looked Lou square in the eyes, rage gripping his soul. “Who was he Lou? How did Hannah know him?”

Lou looked back at her best friend, wrapping her arms tightly around her. “She didn’t. She didn’t know him at all. But he sure knew her Sam.” She looked up into his face, tears in her eyes. “He sure knew a lot about her.”

Ike sat on the stairs of the house, his sketch pad in hand. He had spent most of the afternoon working on a new picture of Hannah. With his pencil in hand, he made smooth slow marks across the paper. As he visualized her face, he began to mold the lines until they started to form a discernible picture. He thought of her every feature....the small dimples, the bright green eyes, the smooth line of her jaw. With each stroke he made, he pulled more and more from his mind, almost willing the lines to conform to his image.

As he continued to draw, he could hear the sound of an approaching wagon that was being driven hard. Curious, he set his sketches aside and stood to see if he could get a better view. Realizing that the wagon was coming in from the Sweetwater route, he started around the side of the house when it finally came into view.

Seeing Sam in the benching, driving the wagon, he straighten up. If Sam was coming, he knew Hannah would be with him too. A smile spread across his face as he waited for the approaching wagon. But the closer Sam got, the more Ike’s smile began to fade.

Ike could see terrible uncertainty on his face, a mixture of pain and fear. Ike didn’t like it. The closer Sam got, the more Ike began to worry. ‘And where was Hannah?’ he thought to himself as he walked to the gate to meet the wagon.

As Sam neared the house, he began to shout. “Emma! Emma!” Ike froze to his spot at the sound of Sam’s voice. Emma came running out of the house, slamming the door as she wiped her hands on her apron. Jimmy and the others must have heard Sam’s calls too. They all came bursting from the bunkhouse, Kid in the lead. As Sam pulled the wagon to a stop, Ike was the first one to reach it, automatically heading for the back.

What he saw nearly made him fall down. Lou sat with her back resting against the wagon wall, blood still oozing from her mouth. In her lap, still unconscious, was Hannah, a dark purple bruise on the side of her mouth and a huge purple lump on her temple. Ike could also see the blackened marks on her arms, the size and shape of fingers, some of which had even drawn blood.

Ike jumped in the wagon and scooped Hannah into his arms as the others reached them. Kid grabbed Lou as she climbed out of the wagon, wrapping his arms around her and holding her tightly as she cried.

“What the hell happened?” Jimmy asked, trying to help Ike with Hannah. Seeing he had it under control, Jimmy turned to Lou. “Lou, are you okay?” he asked as he tried to talk to her, but her face was buried against Kid’s chest.

“Sam, what happened?” Emma asked, her hand to her throat. Seeing Hannah, she ran to Ike. “Bring her in the house,” she said, opening the gate and the house door as she lead him to the spare bedroom. “Here Ike, put her here,” she said as she pulled back the clean linen sheets.

“Wait. Her head’s bleeding pretty bad,” Sam said as he followed behind. Ike laid Hannah gently on the bed, holding her head up for Emma to put a towel under it. Emma immediately pushed Ike back so that she could clean her head wound. “How the hell can this happen?” Sam said, his fingers laced together at his neck. “She wasn’t more than 100 feet from me.”

“Shhh,” Emma hissed, shooing the men out of the room. “You all go outside. I’m gonna clean this up. I’ll be out in a minute. She needs some quiet.” Ike and Sam were reluctant to leave, but Emma would not be swayed. Sullen, both men walked back outside. Lou was waiting for them at the door, a handkerchief held to her lip. The other riders stood behind her, a shared look of confusion on everyone’s face.

“How is she? Is she okay?” Lou asked, a bit slurred as her lip was beginning to swell. Kid laid a hand on her shoulder, gently rubbing her back as she waited for an answer.

“Far as I can tell, she’ll be fine. She was just knocked out. She’ll probably have a serious headache when she wakes up though. She’s got some terrible bruises on her arms but luckily they aren’t broken, a few cuts, and a horrible dark purple bruise on the side of her mouth and on her temple,” Sam said, running his hand down his face. “What the hell happened Lou?”

Lou shook her head. “You should have seen it. It was crazy. He was crazy. Carrying on about Hannah being his love and following her to her room. She was terrified. And he bit her,” she said still unable to believe that it had happen. “He damn well bit her on the lip. I swear Sam, he was crazy. One minute he was talking all nice and sweet, then the next he was yelling and carrying on about them getting married.” Tears began to slid down her cheeks as she turned back in to Kid’s embrace.

“What about you Lou? What happened to your mouth?” Kid asked, rubbing her back soothingly.

Lou pulled back a little bit, her tongue rubbing against the swollen tissue. “When he grabbed her by the arms, I tried to stop him. That’s when he hit me right in the mouth. My teeth went right into my lip.”

All eyes turned as Emma opened the door. She brushed at her hair with the back of her hand. “She’ll be fine. It wasn’t too bad of a cut. He didn’t break the skin on her lip, just bruised it pretty bad.” Emma shook her head, looking up at Sam with sadness in her eyes. “What would possess a grown man to bite a young girl for like that? Her arms are gonna be sore for a while. His nails dug into her skin pretty bad in some spots. She’s got some good size cuts, but nothing that won’t heal quickly.”

“Lou, what can you tell me about that man? Who was he? Where did he come from? Anything would help,” Sam pleaded, wanting to see justice done. He sat down on the step and motioned for the others to do the same. All eyes were on Lou, waiting to find out who had caused them such pain.

“It was so strange........” she started and proceeded to relive every moment with the mad man. She told them everything he said, everything he did, every detail she could remember, hoping that it might lead them to the man in black. “The worst thing was the underlying madness. He seemed so perfectly calm and normal, but when Hannah tried to walk away, something flashed through his eyes that was more frightening than anything I have ever seen,” she said as she buried her face in Kid’s arms.

“She asleep?” Jimmy asked as Kid pulled the bunkhouse door closed. He nodded his head yes as he took a seat with Sam and the rest of the riders. He had never seen Lou so physically drained. He had fought with her for nearly a half hour, to get her to lay down. She wanted to stay with Hannah, but Kid had finally convinced her to lay down. She was sound asleep within minutes.

“So what do we do Sam? If he was fool enough to approach her right in town, causing a scene, he isn’t gonna give up that easy,” Buck said as he considered that matter closely. He looked at his best friend, knowing the pain it was causing him to see Hannah that way.

“I already talked to Emma. Hannah is gonna stay out here. Emma said she could stay in the guest room, and it’s not like she isn’t out here all the time anyway. That way there is always one of you boys around. Or Lou too. You know she’ll be right by Hannah’s side,” Sam said, his hands clasped together loosely in front of him.

“Good,” Jimmy said, looking at Sam. “There’s always someone around here. We can keep an eye out for this guy.” Jimmy glanced over at Cody only to find him with his head in his hands. The usual quirkiness now silenced as his anger raged toward the man that had caused so much pain, not only to a woman that he thought of as a sister, but to the young spirited woman that had stolen his heart.

Jimmy felt eyes on him and turned to see Buck watching him closely. A silent knowing passed between the two men as Jimmy turned his attention to Ike. The quiet rider was pale, his face a mask of pain. He sat on the bunkhouse porch, his knee drawn up to his chest. With his head resting on it, Jimmy could see just how deeply Ike had grown to care for Hannah. ‘I think he’s in love with her,’ Jimmy thought to himself, looking back at an equally love sick Cody. ‘This is not going to be good.’

Emma stood over the men, her arms folded tightly across her chest. The thought of the crazed man still on the loose made her skin crawl. Shaking the thought out of her mind, “I’ve got some supper ready. With Lou sleeping in the bunkhouse, I think we should eat in the main house,” she said, a tired look on her face. “But we have to keep the noise down. Hannah’s in the back room and I don’t want to disturb her.”

“She still ain’t come to yet, has she?” Cody asked as he stood up, rubbing his stomach. He could hear it rumbling. With all the excitement of the afternoon, he had forgotten to eat anything.

Emma sighed as she looked at Sam, her heart aching for her lover’s pain. “No, ‘fraid not. But I know it will be soon.” She looked back at the house, a need to be near the young woman strong. “In fact, I’m gonna sit with her for a little while. But I’ll put supper on the table first,” she said, already on her way back to the house. Sullenly, the riders and Sam followed behind, their thoughts on the two shaken women.

The riders ate in relative silence, their thoughts preoccupied. “You know, now that he’s seen her with Lou and knows that Lou tried to stop him, she could be in big trouble too,” Kid said, considering the implications of the madman’s actions. “We need to keep an eye on her too.”

Emma emerged from the back room, her eyes tired and weary. “Still out,” she said as she sat down at the table. She ran her fingers across her eyes before looking at Sam with a questioning expression. She didn’t know what to do. The only possible solution was just to wait, and she hated that.

After supper, coffee was taken out on the porch. “We need to have a plan. I want that bastard caught,” Sam said as he paced the front porch. The riders sat, staring at the ground or off in the distance, each formulating their own plan to secure the two young women’s security.

~I’m going to get more coffee~ Ike signed, the somber mood wearing him down. ‘If only she would wake up,’ he thought to himself as he walked into the kitchen. Standing over the stove, he turned toward her room. He felt his heart heavy. ‘If only I could see her.”

Ike looked over his shoulder, seeing that the others were preoccupied with their discussion. Setting his cup down, he quietly went to Hannah’s room, carefully opening the door as not to make any noise.

The room was dark with the shades drawn. Hannah lay on her back, covers nestled up to her chin. Ike could see the bruise that ran along her hair line from her fall and the dark purple bruise on her lip. He gritted his teeth together, feeling the intense anger that built up in him. He just couldn’t understand how anyone could hurt her like that.

Quietly closing the door, Ike crossed the room, taking the seat that Emma had occupied since Hannah had been brought back to the station. Sitting forward as far as he could, he watched over Hannah, cocking his head to the side as he took in her every detail. In that moment, Ike knew exactly how much he loved her.

Hannah felt as if she were swimming in a muck of black goo. She couldn’t move, couldn’t open her eyes, couldn’t speak. Fighting with all her might, she tried to shake off the darkness that held her captive. Slowly the muck began to ease up. As it did, off in the distance she heard a moan and tried to focus her attention on it. But after several seconds, she realized that it had actually come from her.

She fought her way through dark clouds and endless murkiness only to be met with searing pain in her head. She moaned again, trying to make it stop but to no avail. It only continued to ache. As she tried to raise her hand to her head, she felt it restrained as if being held.

Finally able to open her eyes, Hannah realized she was staring at a ceiling. Darkness filled the room that she was in, leaving only confusion in the young woman’s mind. She tried to turn her head, but felt the searing pain rip through it like a knife. Moaning softly, she continued turning until she was greeted by a familiar face.

Even in the darkness, she see the concern in his eyes. He watched her carefully, her hand wrapped in both of his. She tried to talk, but nothing came out. She closed her eyes for a minute, her thoughts heavy and pressed. She felt fingers running down the side of her face and felt her hair being pushed back off of her forehead.

“How long have I been out?” she croaked, her throat as dry as an Arizona desert. She licked her lips and felt the stickiness in her mouth. “Water,” she said in a whisper so soft Ike barely heard it. She turned to him, her eyes finally able to grasp where she was. Offering him as much of a smile as she could manage, “I’m okay Ike.”

At Hannah’s request, Ike grabbed the glass that Emma had kept on the night stand and held it to Hannah’s lips. Bracing her head up, he lifted the glass, allowing her only a small amount of water. He didn’t want to make her sick.

Hannah drank greedily at the cool refreshing liquid, wincing as the glass brushed the side of her mouth. As Ike lay her back to her pillow, she drew her free hand up to her lip. Ike watched as she lay her fingers gently on it. She rubbed her tongue over it, trying to smile. “Must look a fright,” she whispered as she looked into his love filled eyes.

He shook his head slowly, placing a gentle kiss on the back of her hand. With her hand still wrapped tightly in his, he placed his other hand on her cheek, gently caressing it as he looked deep into her soul. Although he never said one word, Hannah knew in that moment that he loved her just as much as she knew she loved him.

“Did Sam get that guy?” she whispered, not wanting to talk about him, but having a desperate need to know. She felt her breath hitch in her chest as he shook his head no. ‘That means he’s still out there,’ she thought to herself as she turned her attention to the ceiling.

She thought of the craziness she had seen in his eyes, his insistence that he knew her and that she loved him, his eerie ghastly expression, the things he had said. Hannah closed her eyes, hearing his voice echo through his mind. “But you love me.....” The heavy thoughts pressed down on her tired mind. She could feel sleep nipping at the edge, beckoning for her to join it. She wanted to stay with Ike, but it was more powerful. In her weakened state, she was no match to fight it. Just before she finally allowing it to envelope her, she felt a gentle kiss on her forehead and smiled as she fell into a restful sleep.

Hannah woke up early the next morning, her mind much more clearer than the night before. She felt sore and drained, but otherwise good. Needing fresh air but not wanted to get dressed, she wrapped her blanket tightly around her shoulders and headed out of the house.

The dawn was just getting ready to break from it’s cover of the horizon and Hannah was in awe of the peaceful serenity that laid over the small way station. Pulling the house door closed with a concentrate quietness, she slipped into the swing, inhaling deeply on the cool morning air.

Rocking the swing ever so gently, Hannah stared out into the horizon. As the outer edge of the sun was just about to slip above the horizon, she held her breath with eager anticipation. It was a most spectacular sight.

“You shouldn’t be out here like that?”

Hannah yelped softly, her hand clenching her chest. Turning quickly, she was greeting with a bright smile and brilliant blue eyes. “Cody, you nearly scared the life out of me. What are you doing up at this hour?” she whispered, not wanting to wake Emma up.

Cody stood at the side of the house, his buckskin jacket collar pulled up against the coolness of the morning hour. “I got first ride.” Hannah never thought about anyone else being up. It hadn’t occurred to her that the riders left so early in the morning.

Relaxing a bit, Hannah motioned for Cody to join her. “I don’t want to make too much noise. Emma’s still sleeping,” she said, watching the lanky rider as he mounted the steps. Hannah couldn’t help but marvel at his beautiful eyes. ‘I bet he has charmed many a girls with those before,’ she thought to herself, a welcoming smile on her face.

As Cody sat down beside her, she could see him looking her face over and knew she must look awful. Pulling her hand up to her mouth, she smiled bashfully. “It does look worse than it really is.”

Cody was surprised by her unexpected comment. He couldn’t imagine Hannah ever not looking beautiful. Taking her hand that rest in her lap, he gently squeezed it before bringing it up to his lips and placing a small kiss on the back of it. “I was just musing at how pretty you look.”

Hannah felt her cheeks burn red, bashfully looking back out at the morning sun. “Thank you Cody, but you don’t have to say that. At least I feel better.” Wanting to change the subject, she looked out in the direction that she knew the new rider would be coming in. “So where are you headed this morning?”

Cody shook his head, amazed at how oblivious Hannah was to her wealth of beauties. “I’m headed for St. Joe. Probably won’t be back till dark. Can I bring you anything?” he asked, watching her out of the corner of his eye.

Hannah laughed playfully, laying her hand on his arm. “Oh thank you Cody, but that’s quite all right. You just come back safe is all.” The sounds of hoofs pounding the ground was faint in the distance as both Hannah and Cody turned to see the next rider coming in. Cody jumped up, and headed down the stairs.

“Will do ma’am,” he said playfully, tipping his hat to her. With a grand smile on his youthful face, he winked once at Hannah before running to the fence and mounting his horse. As he readied himself to receive the saddle bag, Hannah watched. She was mesmerized by the whole exchange, having never seen it done before.

She watched as Cody rode out of sight, heading in the same direction as the sun was rising. Hannah’s mind filled with thoughts of wonder at the idea of riding the ranges freely. ‘If only I could ride,’ she thought to herself as she turned her attention back to the sun.

As her thoughts raced of all the possibilities of life in the West, Hannah felt her mind growing heavy with sleep once again. Sighing, she took one last deep breath before turning toward the bunkhouse. Inside its wall, she knew her gentle, sweet Ike was sound asleep. She thought of the concern on his face, the way he had watched her that night at dinner, his smile that lit up his clear green eyes. With a smile on her face, she stood up, stretching her arms high above her head. Yawning quietly, Hannah made her way back into the house, shutting the door tightly behind her.

Dustin Michaels sat on his horse, his eyes fixed attentively to the woman that held his heart in her soft, delicate hands. “Why does she resist me so?” he thought to himself as he felt his heart ache for her.

From his vantage point, he could see her sitting on the porch swing watching the sun rise. Taking a deep breath, he silently thanked whatever lord had told him to head out to the way station early that morning. Even with her hair roused from sleep and a blanket covering her womanly figure, she was a beauty.

Squinting sharply to cover the distance, he could see the dark bruise that covered her lip and hated himself for doing it. ‘Why did she have to act like that?’ he cursed under his breath at the remembrance of that afternoon.

He couldn’t understand why she had acted as if she didn’t know. He had seen her around Sweetwater on several occasions since his arrival to the small backwards town. She had talked to him for which he was certain that her “hi” had been more than just a simple greeting. She had often smiled at him, her eyes inviting and alluring. “And....” he thought to himself as he stared fixedly at the object of his desire. “I know that day she bumped into me was on purpose,” he said, remembering the way she had smelled as their bodies had brushed against each other.

Dustin knew that it was her damn brother that kept them apart. If he could just get rid of her brother, then she would be free to be with him as he knew she wanted to be. “And she does want to,” he said, a touch of uncertainly in his voice.

As he sat on his horse contemplating riding down to the house and claiming his bride, Dustin watched as a blonde rider sat on the swing with Hannah. Instantly, his blood began to boil, his teeth clenching so tightly together. He watched as the rider took her hand and kissed. Without thinking, Dustin drew his rifle, training it expertly on Cody. “I’ll kill that blonde bastard,” he hissed.

His finger twitched near the trigger as thoughts, sounds, and voices slipped around in his mind. “Shoot him,” he heard them say as his hands began to shake with rage. “That slut,” he whispered as if he was afraid to hear his own words.

At the sound of hoofs beating of in the distance, Dustin decided that it wasn’t the time, lowering his rifle. He knew in his heart that Hannah was just being sucked in to the devilish rider’s scheme. He knew that she really loved him. “He just wants her to himself,” he said aloud, watching the rider as he jumped on his horse. “We’ll see about that.”

“You better be careful. She’s pretty feisty.”

Ike turned quickly as Hannah’s sweet voice drifted through the air. She stood with her arms draped over the corral fence, leaning her body against the rails. Ike couldn’t help but smile at the mischievous grin that played on Hannah’s lips. The dark bruise was beginning to fade as Hannah returned to her normal self, the crazed man a long forgotten memory.

~I know. I’ve been trying to break her for a week now.~ he signed as he approached the fence where she stood. ~What are you doing?~

Hannah shrugged her shoulders, turning her face up to the afternoon sun. She had been taking it easy for the past several days, helping with easier chores and all the while growing closer to the riders and to Ike. In the evenings, they would all play games, cards or chess or one of Teaspoon’s crazy ideas. And although they tried, no one could beat Hannah at Chess. But Ike could tell that she was growing restless, wanting something more to do.

“I was helping Jimmy in the barn, but we are done. Most of the riders are heading into town. I was just wondering if you are gonna go?” she asked, a sparkle in her hazel eyes. Ike could tell she had something more in mind, but he had no idea what it could be.

Ike pulled the worn leather gloves off his hands, wiping at the sweat that clung to his forehead. He looked at the new stallion with a curious gaze. She was a tough horse, but he knew that he would be able to get through to her sooner or later. Looking back at Hannah, he could see the hopefulness in her eyes. ~No, I’m not. What did you have in mind?~

Hannah’s face lit up. She had hoped that he would said that. “Well you all said that you would teach me to ride. Lou has taken me out a couple of times, but no one has had any time as of late,” she said, feeling like a burden to bother Ike with such trivialities. “I was just wondering if we could go for a ride?” As if realizing how presumptuous she sounded, she blushed profusely, turning her gaze to the ground in front of her. “I mean, if you want to?”

Ike couldn’t help notice how beautiful she looked in the bright afternoon sun. Her hair was tied back with a thin black ribbon, leaving spiral auburn curls to dance softly around her face. Though her lip was a dark yellow, light purple color, her smile more than covered any signs of the fear she had experienced.

The riders had made it a special point that neither Lou or Hannah was to be left alone, under any circumstances. Sam and Teaspoon had hunted for the crazed man, but they had little to go on. Seemed as if he just disappeared from existence. But Ike knew better. He knew he was out there somewhere, and he would never let Hannah out of his sight again. He just couldn’t afford to risk it. Not when he loved her as much as he did.

A warm smile spread across his handsome face. ~I’d love to. Let me wash up and then we’ll go. Wanna help me saddle up some horses?~ He could see the light beaming from her big hazel eyes. Shaking her head frantically, he held up one finger and headed for the house to get washed up.

After scrubbing the afternoon heat from his face and arms, he changed into fresh clothes and went out in search of Hannah. As he neared the corral, he heard her sweet laughter as it drifted through the quiet afternoon. Curious as to what she was doing and knowing that everyone else had already left to go into town, Ike rounded the corner only to be stopped in his tracks at the glorious sight that he beheld.

Standing in the doorway, Ike leaned against the old wooden frame, a smile on his face. He watched as Hannah stood in his horse’s stall, taking softly as she stroked his noes. he could see the sheer delight on her face as she rubbed her cheek against the gentle beast’s head.

Ike couldn’t help marveling at the scene before him. Sunlight spilled through the other end of the barn, illuminating woman and beast in an almost surreal manner. the sunlight reflected in her auburn locks, bring out her red highlights. It looked as if fire danced through her hair. There was such peace in her that it made Ike’s heart feel overjoyed with love.

As if summoned by his thoughts, Hannah looked up, her cheeks slightly red. “Sorry,” she said shyly as she continued to rub the horse’s nose. “Dancer and I were just discussing the finer points of hay.”

Ike laughed at the young woman’s comments, loving her carefree nature. ~What’s this about calling my horse Dancer?~ he signed, smiling as he approached the stall. Again he could see the color rise in her cheeks as she continued to stroke the horse’s nose.

“That’s his name. He told me,” she said bashfully, looking to see if Ike was buying any of it. “He said that you ride so gracefully and with such ease that he felt like a dancer.” Batting her long thick eyelashes, Hannah looked playfully at Ike. “He did really. I can see that you doubt my honesty.”

Ike laughed in spite of his efforts to keep a straight face. Shaking his head yes, ~I believe ya. I just thought I was the only one he talked to.~ Hannah laughed heartily at his jestful return. ~But he has good taste to confide in you.~ he signed, diverting his eyes to the ground in front of him before he headed off to grab the saddles.

Hannah watched him go as she stood next to Dancer, her head resting gently against his. A wistful sigh escaped her lips as she watched from a distance as Ike lifted the heavy saddle from the stand at the back of the barn, the muscles in his back and arms flexing considerably. “That, Dancer,” she said dreamily, “is the love of my life.”

Cody let his mind wander as he rode across the vast empty plain. The morning ride out to Thayerville had been uneventful. But he was grateful for such a marvelous afternoon. The sun shone brightly and the air was warm as he covered the last fifteen miles of his trip. Looking out into the distance, he wondered how anyone could ever live anywhere else besides the West.

Oh, he talked about visiting all those cities that he had read about like New York and Paris, but his heart would always live in the West. Even after he was gone, he knew his spirit would still roam it.

Even with his intense love for the beautiful wonders of the open countryside, Cody was anxious to get back to the way station. He and Hannah were going to work on her riding. She had insisted that she didn’t want to be a bother, but Cody was thrilled with the idea of getting to show her a few tricks on a horse. She wanted to lean to side mount and to raise the horse on its back legs, all of which Cody was an expert at.

Cody had met many women in his short existence, but never any like Hannah. She had an eagerness to live and learn that rivaled his own. The excitement that danced in her eyes when she talked of seeing the world made him love her even more. She was not only remarkable, but beautiful as well.

A smile spread across his lips as he thought of the wonderful times that they have shared since her arrival to Sweetwater. All the water fights and horsing around, all the quiet games of chess or even the times when they would simply sit on the porch and read a book.....all of which made Cody ache with emotion for the beautiful young woman.

As Cody rounded a bend in the trail, his mind still reflecting on his attraction to Hannah, he never even noticed the man that lay in wait in the small patch of trees surrounding the trail. It wasn’t until he felt the bullet rip through his shoulder, the sound of the gunshot echoing through the perfect stillness in the air, that he saw the man in black.

The bullet hit him with such force that Cody few backwards off of his horse, the movement and noise from the gunfire scaring the poor creature into a frenzied run. Cody hit the ground with a thud, coddling his arm as he withered in pain. Confusion filled his mind as the events had occurred too quickly for him to process.

“So the devil ain’t so might anymore, is he?”

As blackness drifted into his mind, Cody was startled by the maliceness in the words that broke through the afternoon air. Trying to focus his attention to the origins of the remark, it wasn’t until Cody felt a hand sink itself into his hair, grabbing it roughly. “Ain’t that right devil man?”

Cody felt himself being lifted from the ground by his hair. Shrieking in pain, he tried to turn to face his attacker. “What did you think?” he heard right before he felt the fist connect with his ribs.

“Aw hell,” he howled as stars filled his eyes. “What are you talking about?” Cody grumbled as he held his breath from the pain that coursed through his side. “Who the hell are you?”

As if in answer to his question, Cody felt another impressive blow to his ribs, followed by what he was sure was a crack as at least one of the broke. The blackness pressed heavily on his mind as pain consumed his entire body. As his head fell forward, lolling from the lose of consciousness, Cody was instantly brought back to his senses as incredibly intense pain flared through his shoulder.

Screaming in pain, Cody turned to see the man in black pressing the butt of his pistol into his bloody shattered shoulder. “Awww, God...” he screamed as the pain was worse than anything he had ever known.

Dustin smiled an even grin at the pain he was inflicting in the bastard that dared try to steal his love. Pulling the butt of his pistol away from the bullet wound, he couldn’t help but laugh at the look of relief that covered the pathetic man’s face. “She’ll never be with you. She loves me. Do you hear me?” he screamed as he let Cody drop from his grip, crumbling to the ground like an old rag doll. “NEVER!”

Dustin could see the rider’s eyes roll back into his head as consciousness slipped away from him. Dustin regarded the man with disgust, wondering incredulously what Hannah would see in a worthless piece of shit like that. Shaking his head, he knew deep down it wasn’t Hannah at all. Because he knew that she loved only him; the voices had told him that.

Cocking the hammer on his Colt as his lip turned up into a snarl, Dustin aimed at the fallen rider’s head. “I’ll just take you out of the equation,” he said, knowing that it was the only way to ensure that the devil rider’s treachery would be resolved.

Just as he was about to pull the trigger, Dustin heard the approaching horses as they were to round the bend. “Dammit,” he cursed, not wanting to fire his gun with people so near for fear that they would come after him. ‘I leave before they see me, and they will think that the culprits were long gone,’ he thought to himself as he looked down at the fallen rider.

“This is your lucky day,” he whispered through clenched teeth. Pulling back his leg, he let it fly, kicking Cody with all his might into his ribs. He smiled grandly at the wonderful sound of more ribs cracking. Looking to see that he had no more time, Dustin ran for the trees. “Next time, I’ll kill you....” he whispered as he stole off into the approaching night.

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