Prologue Staring into the flames Kid shuddered as he listened to the others moving in their sleep. Moving slightly he stared at Lou who slept soundly a few feet away, her face buried in her blankets the bruises hidden from his sight. Seeing her on that cross had been harder than anything he’d ever done. His heart had stopped beating and he’d felt pure terror as he gazed upon her. Seeing the look in her eyes he’d swallowed and stared at her, instantly seeing his life flashing before him. The terror had faded to be replaced with a dark anger, directed first at Jimmy than at Pike for ever laying a hand on Lou. Closing his eyes he rolled over and struggled to clear his mind of the jumbled images that raced through it. Still sleep was a long time coming, and when morning came he awoke more exhausted than when he’d gone to bed the night before. Riding silently back to Rock Creek with the others he’d lost himself in his thoughts, carrying on conversations he had no recollection of, appearing normal but deep inside a voice was growing strength. A voice that told him he had to make a choice, one that would ultimately decide his fate. Chapter One “Lou got a run for you.” Teaspoon said stepping onto the porch where the riders were sitting after a long day of work. “Where to?” “Alliance.” Teaspoon said. “I’ve got a parcel for you to carry.” “Kid’s up next..” Lou started. “Kid ain’t here.” Teaspoon replied quickly and handed the package to Lou who glared at it before heading for the barn. Moving quickly she had her mare saddled and was loping out of the yard headed north. “Where is Kid?” Jimmy asked with a slight frown. "I ain’t seen him since this morning.” “Probably at his thinking spot. He’s been kinda quiet lately.” Buck replied quickly. “I think he’s trying to figure something out.” “Why not ask for help then?” Cody asked. “We’ve always given him good advice.” “Really?” Teaspoon said with a slight shift of his frame. “Seems to me that your good advice got him in trouble on more than one occasion.” “Now Teaspoon, the advice was sound. It ain’t our fault if he didn’t take it the way we meant it.” Cody replied as the others rolled their eyes at him. “Just get cleaned up. Dinner’s nearly ready.” Teaspoon snapped and turned to walk away. Dropping the mail bags in Thedford Kid sighed and headed for the livery with Katy. After making sure she was taken care of he headed for the hotel. “Evening sir.” The clerk smiled at him as he pulled out the ledger. “How long will you be staying with us?” “I’m not sure.” Kid said softly as he signed the register. “Could be a day or two, could be a week.” “That’ll be four bits for tonight then.” The man said as the young rider placed the coins on the counter and collected his key. “Room eight, top of the stairs on your right.” “Thank you.” Kid smiled shakily and headed up the stairs to toss his saddlebags on the bed and sit down in the chair next to the window. He’d agreed to take this run for Teaspoon because it got him away from everyone including Lou. Laying in bed the past few nights listening to her breath, hearing her movement above him had driven him slowly insane. They were friends although that had taken a lot of time and hard work, he wasn’t sure that he wanted to ruin that and yet at the same time just listening to her was enough to give him hot flashes, and made sleeping uncomfortable to the extreme. He didn’t relish going to sleep and waking up hard, but he’d done it every night lately and somehow he’d managed to snag a few minutes sleep. Although he was often up before everyone for good reason and cold showers weren’t working anymore. Staring out the window he sighed, he loved her more now than he did before. He wished quite desperately that he could go back and change the past, that he could stop himself from hurting her the way he had but knew he couldn’t. He didn’t think he could face her anymore, he’d told her the truth in that letter he’d left with Rachel, he did love her. He was always going to love her but staying in Rock Creek would ultimately destroy him because he’d never be able to put the past behind him. He was his father’s son, his father had been a selfish, demanding man who cared nothing for anyone else as long as he got what he wanted and Kid feared that he’d turned out the same way. Kid had long since lot track of the times the old man had come home drunk and start beating on him or his ma. Shifting in this seat Kid rubbed a hand down his face tiredly, he was so tired of having to try to prove everyone wrong. All he wanted to was to rest, to have a little peace and some time to himself. With a sigh he admitted to himself if nothing else he needed to do some serious thinking, and then he’d go talk to Lou and come clean. Maybe if he was really lucky and she was in a generous mood she’d forgive him and the friendship that was so new, so dear to him could be salvaged. Feeling satisfied with that he moved over and crawled into the bed, his body more tired than his mind but he refused to let himself lay awake all night. Instead he blanked out everything and slid into a dream filled sleep, haunted by the happier times that played out in his dreams. Dusty and tired Lou pulled up by the corral with the response from that blowhard in Alliance and swung down. Glancing at the slight movement to her left she smothered a groan, Jimmy and Noah were coming her way and they looked like they wanted to talk. “Hey Lou.” Jimmy smiled at he and leaned against the corral fence. “What do you want?” Lou asked tiredly as she unsaddled the mare she was riding. “What makes you think we want something?” Noah asked quickly with a telling glance at Jimmy. “Because you’ve got that look on your faces that tells me you do.” Lou replied dragging the saddle down off the horse and turning to the barn. “So spit it out and let me get my chores done.” “I’ve got a run tomorrow with Kid and I don’t want to take it.” Jimmy said quickly. “Why not?” Lou snapped. “He’s still mad at Jimmy.” Noah explained. “Ain’t said more than three words to any of us in nearly a week.” “Maybe he’s thinking.” Lou suggested and glanced at them. “And if he’s indeed mad, why would you want to saddle me with him?” “Because you and he are better suited to fighting.” Noah smiled at Jimmy’s words. “You can put him in his place so easily Lou. Please, I’m desperate here.” “No.” Lou shook her head firmly. “I just got back from a week long run.” “Please Lou. I’ll do your chores for a week if you do this for me.” Jimmy pleaded. He didn’t want to ride with Kid, for some reason the other man’s silence cut too deeply in his mind. He’d watched Lou and Kid circle each other like a pair of wild animals fighting over a kill and knew even if both of them were too stubborn to admit it that there was still a lot of love there. Riding with Kid he’d just poke his nose in and get himself into trouble again, and he didn’t want to get thrown in jail because he beat the piss out of Kid. “I’m going to go for a quick swim then I’m coming back and crawling into my bunk. If you don’t want to take this run, get Teaspoon to switch Kid with someone else.” “You’re a genius Lou.” Jimmy said darting off for the jail as Lou shook her head and glared at Noah. “What?” “Let me guess you have something to add?” “No. Just going to say if you’re going to go for a swim you might want to keep your eyes open. I believe the boys went down to the pond.” “Thanks for the warning.” Lou shuffled off to grab a towel and clean clothing before she headed for the creek. There was a spot wide enough and deep enough for her to go for a swim and nobody would be there. Walking along the trail she sighed, she’d spent the past week thinking; in fact she’d given herself more headaches than anything over the past few days trying to think of what Kid had meant in his letter. Had he been serious? Did he still love her? She hoped he did, she wanted him to love her again. Deep down she knew that she’d rushed things, she’d taken for granted things that shouldn’t have been taken advantage of. She’d forgotten that she’d been dealing with the Kid, and with him it was either black or white, right or wrong. They’d both made mistakes, hell their whole relationship had been littered with them but maybe they could change that if they tried again. Coming around the trunk of the large birch tree Lou paused, sitting on the log watching the sun playing on the water was a very familiar man. One who it seemed everyone was trying to avoid. “You look lost in thought.” She said walking up to him. Smiling as he jerked around to stare at her before smiling. “How was your run?” Kid asked with a slight smile. He was glad to see her, even if she had interrupted his solitude. He’d spent the better part of this week deep in thought, ignoring everyone and everything that required him to think until he his head started to hurt. “Good. Long and dusty.” Lou said with a smile. “May I?” “Sure.” Kid moved over and watched Lou settle on the log next to him, her clothes and a towel piled in her lap. “Jimmy doesn’t want to take the run tomorrow with you.” Lou said with a shrug. “He spent the better part of the time I was unsaddling begging me to change with him.” “He shouldn’t have. You just got back.” Kid said a faint frown marring his features. “I told him to go see if someone would switch with you. They figure you’re mad.” “Naw. Just thinking.” “So have I.” Lou admitted turning to stare at the sparkling water. “Spent all week doing that.” “Kinda gives you a headache after a while though doesn’t it?” Kid chuckled softly. “Yep. But it doesn’t matter. The headache I mean.” Lou said shifting on the log uneasily, her fingers picking at the loose threads on the towel. “Made me face a few things.” “I know what you mean.” Kid said shifting and sliding so he was resting with his back against the log. “I was going to talk to you tonight..” “Oh?” Lou felt her heart freeze, and silently begged for him not to say he was leaving. “I wanted to apologize.” Kid started. “Okay.” “Louise, please do not interrupt me.” Kid said with a glance at her as she settled on the ground next to him, the bundle she’d been clinging to stacked on the log behind them. “I should never have rushed you, I know that now. I did everything I swore I’d never do with the woman I love, and I know I can’t make that hurt go away but I promise I won’t do it again.” “Kid.” Silencing her with a glance Kid continued. “When I was growing up my pa was a very unpleasant man. If he wasn’t drinking he was okay, but when he started god help us all. He used to beat on Ma something fierce, can’t recall the number of times she’d have bruises on her face and stuff. Spent more nights listening to him beating on her than anything. After I was born I guess things got worse. I was six I think when he came in and took a belt to me for no reason. Leastways none I could find. Ma tried to stick up for me but he just beat her again. By the time I was ten all I knew was drunken tirades, loud voices and anger. God that man was angry all the time. It got to the point where we were glad when he left for weeks on end. We’d spend a few days after he’d left watching for him but then things would even out and we’d just relax.” Kid stared at his hands. “Then he’d come back and it would start all over again. Finally when Ma got sick she sent us to foster homes, said we could make something of ourselves that way. She died a month after I went over to the neighbors, Pa came back sold the farm and disappeared again with the money of course.” “I’m sorry Kid.” “I always thought I could be better than he was. You know care about those I loved but I’m no better. I tried to control you, forgot that you had wants, needs, forgot you had a say even and I can’t forget that it cost me everything I’ve ever wanted.” “Kid you’re nothing like your Pa.” “I’ve never hit you that’s for sure but I just ignored the need you had to prove yourself. I’m sorry Lou.” Kid glanced at her painfully, the pain in his eyes evident and deep. “I know I don’t deserve your forgiveness but I’m asking for it anyway. Please Lou, forgive me. I’m so sorry.” “Did you mean it?” Lou asked rather than answer him. “Mean what?” “This.” Pulling the letter out of the pocket of her pants she held it out to him. “Did you mean what you said in this letter?” “Yes.” Kid replied taking it and opening it slowly. The paper had been unfolded and refolded so many times that he was slightly amazed that it hadn’t torn. “I meant every word Lou. I’m always going to love you, that won’t change no matter what I do. Seeing you on that cross just made it clearer to me. I love you, and I hurt you beyond endurance. Through my own stupidity I lost you and I’m sorry.” Nodding Lou turned her attention to the rippling water and sighed softly. “Do you think we could make it work?” She whispered. “What do you mean?” Kid asked, his tone filled with hope as he faced her. Did she mean what he thought she did? Could she want to try it again with him? “Could we make us, you and me work?” Lou faced his squarely, doubt and longing in her eyes. “We can try.” Kid replied. “Take things slow, ease into things. No jumping the gun, no planning no plotting for things that don’t feel right at the time.” Kid shrugged and grinned sheepishly. “And we need to talk more, I mean honestly. We didn’t do a lot of talking before.” “I know.” Lou nodded quickly and smiled. “Hi I’m Louise.” “I’m Kid.” Kid shook her hand and grinned at her as they sat there for a few minutes in silence. “I should let you get some swimming in seeing as how that’s what you came down here for.” “Thanks Kid.” Lou said with a smile as he rose. “I guess I should go talk to Jimmy huh? See what the problem is.” Kid said as he dusted his pants off and grinned at her where she still sat looking up at him. “You could I guess. Just don’t tell him I told you.” “I won’t.” Kid smiled and offered his hand, pulling her to her feet easily. “I’ll see you back at the bunkhouse?” “I’ll be there.” Lou said as he leaned down to softly kiss her cheek before he headed for the station, his hands tucked into his pockets and a slight swagger to his steps. Smiling she watched him walk away, he was happy almost as happy as she was with the turn of events. “Hey Kid.” She called and he turned with a quizzical look in his eyes, “It might be an idea not to tell anyone just yet. Knowing them they’ll have all sorts of advice and such. Maybe we should just try working our problems out between us?” “I agree.” Kid said and touched his hat brim. “I’ll see you for dinner Louise.” “Get out of here.” Lou laughed at his retreating back and reached for the buttons on her shirt. Chapter Two Leaning against the bunkhouse wall Jimmy watched Kid and Lou working together with a spirited mare in the corral a frown on his face. Something had changed, they’d been back from rescuing Amanda for a couple of weeks and those two were up to something. They still fought like cats and dogs, he couldn’t recall what the last one was about but he sure remembered walking in on it. They’d been standing toe to toe, staring at each other then he’d heard it. The soft, almost lethal little barbs they were tossing at each other. Grinning suddenly he focused on the memory. Walking into the bunkhouse he’d froze in the doorway as Kid and Lou faced off, they’d barely spared him a glance as they stood there tugging on something between the two of them. Then Lou had pushed against Kid only to have him refuse to budge. “Move!” Lou snapped angrily as she stared at Kid. She didn’t think Jimmy needed to be aware of just how close they had been. She could still feel the imprint of his arousal against her, and if Jimmy’d been any closer he could have seen it. “No.” Kid returned quickly. “It’s my bunk.” “Yeah well I need to use it to get into mine.” Lou snapped. “I’m shorter than you are so get out of my way.” “No. You’ve got your filthy boots on.” Kid started only to pause when she glared daggers at him. “Use a stool.” “I can’t.” Lou snapped and smacked him as the door slammed shut behind Cody who’d entered the room. Groaning silently she pleaded with Kid to move so she could get out of the bunkhouse. “Sure you can.” Cody tossed in. “I’ll grab one from Rachel.” “Shut up.” Lou snapped. “It’s never bothered you before if I used your bunk as a step ladder so why should it now?” “Because you haven’t taken your boots off that’s why!” Kid snapped pointing to the filthy boots still on Lou’s feet. “I have to sleep in those blankets.” “So?” Lou glared harder at him and pushed against his chest, not really expecting him to move, and let her hands linger as she pushed again. It felt good to have him under her hands again although she wasn’t going to admit it at least not in front of Jimmy or Cody. “Take your boots off then you can step up there.” Kid repeated knowing that he’d give in as soon as the other two were out of the bunkhouse. “God damn it Kid. If you don’t move I’m going to shoot you!” Lou shouted as she pushed against his chest then cringed when the door slammed and glanced at it uneasily. Shaking himself out of his memory Jimmy frowned, for some reason the argument had stopped shortly after Cody and he had vacated the bunkhouse and when they’d gone back in Lou was in her bunk with her boots on, and Kid was sitting reading a book like they hadn’t been at each other’s throats mere minutes before hand. “What are you looking at?” Cody asked sitting next to Jimmy. “Them two.” Jimmy pointed out toward the corral. “Something ain’t right.” “If you’re expecting those two to have a normal period of time together then you’re right. They can’t. If they ain’t fighting they’re ignoring each other.” Cody said. “Naw that ain’t it. I mean look at them.” Jimmy pointed out. “Working together like they’ve been doing it for years. Lou didn’t even glare at Kid when he lifted her out of his way earlier. I figured she’d kill him for touching her but she didn’t, just wiped her forehead and kept right on going.” “Maybe they’re working things out. I mean aren’t they friends?” “Sure they are.” Jimmy said quickly as he grabbed an apple from Cody’s hands. “But its funny how those two will fight at the drop of a hat over nothing when we’re around. Or when they know we’re watchin’ em.” “Weren’t they fighting earlier?” Cody asked as he frowned at the pair in the corral. They were standing in conversation over the back of the mare as Lou held her lead rope for Kid to swing into the saddle. “Yep. Over Lou stepping on Kid’s bunk again.” “In all this time they pick now to fight over it?” Cody raised an eyebrow and glanced at Jimmy. “Come to think of it, she stepped on Kid this morning when she was getting up and he never said a word.” “Something’s fishy about this situation.” Jimmy repeated. “And I intend to find out what it is.” “Jimmy you go poking your nose in..” Cody started then chuckled. “We’re going to get a real show for once.” “I know.” Smiling evilly Jimmy headed for the corral where Lou had stepped back to lean against the fence while Kid rode the mare around the pen. “Hey Lou.” Jimmy said climbing onto the fence. “How’s it going?” “Really good. She should be ready in a couple of days for a run.” Lou said glancing at the pair of them and groaning silently. Catching Kid’s gaze she glanced at them and he gave a barely perceptible nod. “What are you two doing?” “Just figured we’d go into town. See if you want to come with us.” Cody said. “Ain’t you got chores to do?” “Sure but who wants to do them now.” Jimmy replied quickly. “Besides there’s a new girl in town, figured she’d be perfect for Kid. Since you know so much about him..” “Go to hell.” Lou snapped glancing at the two of them. “I’m not setting him up with someone.” “But then he’d be out from underfoot.” “Who’d be out from underfoot?” Kid asked joining them at the corral fence, his chest heaving from the exertion of trying to control the mare. “You.” Cody replied with a grin. “See there’s this new girl in town..” “Oh?” Kid glanced at them with a frown. “You mean the school teacher that’s helping Rachel?” “Yeah.” “She’s more your style there Cody. Plenty of flash but no substance.” Kid said ducking through the corral fence. “Besides I’ve got to get ready for a run.” “But Kid, we don’t want you to go. We want Lou to go.” Jimmy repeated. “She’s an expert on getting on your bad side so we just figured she’d know how to get on your good side.” Shaking his head Kid walked away, his teeth ground together as they pondered his silence. He didn’t know how to keep dodging their matchmaking attempts but he’d figure something out. Hearing footsteps behind him he sighed looked like Lou wanted to talk. “How do you know so much about the schoolteacher?” Lou whispered leaning against the stall wall. “Because she stopped to ask me about Cody,” Kid replied quickly. “Last time we were in town. Guess she figured I’d know about him.” “How come you’re getting ready for a run that ain’t for another hour?” Lou asked with a smile. “Figured it would get me away from those two.” Kid replied and glanced at the door. “Besides it’s actually your run.” “Mine?” Lou frowned. “Then why are you taking it?” “I’m not. You are.” Kid replied hiding his grin as he finished saddling Katy. “I’m going the other direction on one of Teaspoons favor’s.” “God help you then.” Lou muttered as she glanced over her shoulder and glared at Jimmy and Cody who were moseying toward them. “Here we go again.” “What do you want to fight about this time?” “I don’t know.” Lou sighed. “I don’t really feel like it now.” “Neither do I.” “See I told you so.” Jimmy’s voice had both of them groaning before turning to face him. “What are babbling about now Hickok?” Kid demanded feeling a prick of irritation at the other man. “You two.” Jimmy replied. “Being so civilized to each other.” “I told you.” Lou pointed out with a glance at Kid. “I’ve got to get ready for my run if you don’t mind.” “Hey I resent that.” Kid snapped. “I said I’d take the run.” He easily fell into the role of wounded male, pushing aside his need to grin like a fool as Lou saddled her horse easily, seriously without glancing at him. Unlike the two fools who stood gawking at them he knew she was going on a run same as he was. “Yeah well I’m taking it.” Lou snapped without looking at him. “Besides don’t you have to run to town to see the schoolteacher?” “Look who I see is none of your business.” Kid shot back only too aware of how things would look to the other two. He wasn’t interested in anyone other than Lou and she knew it. “Besides you’re a fine one to talk. You’ve got a beau every where you go.” “That’s stretching it.” Lou snapped the hid her grin when she realized he was right. Kid was everywhere she went, she carried him within her heart. “Besides you’ve got skirts chasing you all over this territory.” “Uh guys, look we should get going.” Cody said glancing at Jimmy who was watching the pair easily, a look of stunned disbelief on his face. “Right Jimmy?” “Uh?” Jimmy opened his mouth in shock when Kid stepped past him with a nasty look and headed outside, followed quickly by Lou who glared at both him and Cody on her way out of the barn. Watching Kid and Lou retreat Jimmy scratched his head as they fell into step as soon as they had left the barn, their bodies relaxing slightly although he could still hear Lou complaining about every skirt Kid chased. “That was unusual.” Cody said as he glanced at Jimmy. “Yeah.” “They weren’t fighting until we showed up. I know cause we could see ‘em through the window.” Cody frowned as he glanced at the pair who’d tied their horses up and were heading for the bunkhouse. “They’re up to something.” “I know and it could prove to be dangerous for us.” Jimmy sighed. “Come on no sense wasting time. We’ll go see the new school teacher, maybe she’s more interesting then they are.” “I don’t know Jimmy. Could prove hazardous for your health if I get her first.” Cody laughed as he headed up the street. “I’ll see you in Harpsburg?” Lou whispered as she walked past Kid. “Sure. I’ll be there sometime tomorrow.” “I shouldn’t be far behind you. Hopefully our friends forget whatever they’re up to.” Lou said watching Jimmy and Cody laughing as they headed up the street. “Hopefully. If not you do realize we’re going to have to do something pretty drastic.” “I know.” Lou smiled. “Ride safe.” “You to.” Kid said with a smile and swung into the saddle before loping up the street to get the parcel from Teaspoon. Watching him lope off Lou hid her smile; she had to admit they were having fun. Pulling one over on the boys was always so much fun and in the weeks since they’d decided to try it again they’d spent a lot of time talking and it had helped. Sure they didn’t spend hours rehashing old topics, but when they sat down to talk, they talked about what was important and more importantly they spoke honestly about it to the other. She wished that tomorrow would hurry the hell up so she could spend some time with Kid alone from everyone’s prying eyes, the questions, the curious looks Jimmy kept giving her. She’d over heard him talking to Teaspoon about her sudden shifts of mood and realized that he was slightly relieved but more confused than ever that she’d stopped flirting with him. Shaking her head she headed for the bunkhouse to get her bedroll and to wrap up the dress she was taking with her. This secret stuff was harder work than she’d thought. Chapter Three Pulling up in Hapsburg Kid dismounted in front of the hotel and stretched out the tired muscles in his legs. He’d pushed Katy pretty hard to get here, in fact he’d spent the past half hour walking her to get her cool enough so she didn’t die from under him. Smiling he glanced up and down the street glad to see that there was no-one familiar hanging about. Stepping onto the walkway he entered the hotel and walked over to the counter to check in. Scanning the registry quickly he sighed, Lou hadn’t checked in yet so that meant he had time to have a bath, a shave and get into his suit. They’d planned this carefully, dinner, a stroll, and then back to the hotel for one of their now familiar chats. While he had to admit that he wasn’t a big fan of the talking they did, it sure helped to ease his mind when it came to things he had previously taken for granted. He now knew more about the woman he loved, her past, the shadows that haunted her although she hadn’t come quite clean about everything just yet but they were working on it. He’d finally stopped hiding about his past and told her more about his childhood, about the friends; family he’d left in Virginia. The memories that sometimes haunted him and found only acceptance and respect from her. This second chance had also shown him something about himself that he hadn’t realized before; he respected Lou on a level that he’d never felt before. Sure he loved her, had always loved her but before the breakup he’d forgotten that she was her own person, that she wasn’t an extension of him. Now he knew better, and he tried to treat her with the respect and devotion she deserved while hiding what they were doing from everyone. After paying for the room, collecting the key and heading upstairs he closed the hotel room door and tossed his bags, bedroll and coat onto the bed glanced around and smiled. A huge bath sat in one corner of the room and he was happy that he wouldn’t have to go use the public bath. “Better see to Katy.” Kid muttered under his breath as he headed back downstairs the key tucked into his pocket. Stepping out into the afternoon sun he adjusted his hat and moved to grab Katy’s reins. Swinging into the saddle he walked the paint down the street to the livery and swung down. “Hello.” He greeted the young boy who met him at the fence. “You got some room for a tired horse?” “Sure do mister.” The boy grinned at him and rocked back on his heels, his hands tucked into his suspenders in a manner only too familiar to Kid. “What you want me to do with her?” “Rub her down real good, and throw some corn into her feed. She’s come a ways and needs the rest.” “Corn’s extra.” “You take good care of her.” Kid said and offered the boy a dime. “I’d hate to have you feeling you didn’t earn your keep.” “Yes sir!” The boy said seriously and reached for the reins. Leading the mare inside he glanced once more at the young man and sighed, when he was grown.. “Hey you made good time.” Lou’s voice had him turning with a grin. “Yeah, I just got here myself.” “Figures.” Lou sighed and rolled her shoulders tiredly. “I swear old man Hodgkin is getting worse. I spent ten minutes arguing with him over the saddle being tight enough.” “Why didn’t you just saddle..?” “He wouldn’t let me.” Lou shrugged. “So I mounted up and left, got out of sight and tightened the cinch. Damn fool just about got me killed.” “He is getting old.” Kid said as the boy appeared and took the black mare Lou was riding into the stable with a questioning look. “Same as the paint.” Kid said and the boy scurried off to do his work. “So you arrange a bath yet?” Lou asked as she tried to dust herself off. “Got one in my hotel room. You’re welcome to use it while I check on dinner and such.” Kid offered being careful to keep the boundaries they’d set firmly in place. Much as he might want to be in the same room, and preferably in the same tub as Lou, he would wait like a gentleman to be invited back into her arms. “Great.” Lou sighed as she slung her bedroll over her shoulder along with her saddlebags. “I feel like I’ve got about three inches of mud and dirt on me.” “Yeah but mud and dirt never looked that good.” He teased her as they walked along the sidewalk. “Frankly I’m surprised you aren’t attracting more attention.” “Kid stop it.” Lou felt the flush climb her cheeks and ducked her head as they walked past an elderly couple. “I’m fine with the attention I’ve got.” “Good. Come on, you can use my room.” Kid said heading into the hotel. The clerk was harried with a young woman and several children so Kid just pointed the staircase out and led Lou up it. “I’ll order some water brought up.” Kid volunteered as he waved at one of the hotel clerks that were standing next to a door marked dining room. “Yes sir?” “Can I have a hot bath delivered to room six please.” Kid said quickly as the young man nodded and hurried off to summon someone to carry some water. “It’ll be nice to soak.” Lou admitted as she followed Kid up the stairs. “I should check in though don’t you think?” “Plenty of time for that.” Kid replied as he opened the door and stepped aside for Lou to enter. “I’ll go see about dinner and come back. Enjoy the bath and I'll see you in a bit.” “Okay.” Lou watched him leave and smiled, he was so determined not to rush into things, to take things slowly and yet there was that familiarity that came with being old lovers. Shaking her head she glanced at the tub and sighed, it would be filled with hot water shortly and she desperately wanted to soak away the last few weeks worth of tension. After securing a table for dinner at the restaurant next to the hotel Kid paused on the sidewalk and looked around. There had been so many times he’d wanted to do this, just be together with no worries, no rushing to get home and somehow he’d never found the time. Instead they’d spent any stolen moments in each other’s arms without worrying about what needed to be said. Determined not to make the same mistakes again Kid admitted if only to himself that sometimes he just wanted to slip back into the way they’d done things before. Stolen kisses in the barn, afternoons spent dancing in the pond, nights on the trail spent in the same bedroll all sounded pretty good to him. With a sigh he silently cursed himself and headed back for his room. He wasn’t going to rush into this again. He’d lost her to his own stupidity and pride before. This time it would be up to Lou how far they took things and he wanted to know that they’d done everything they could to make it work. He tried hard at the station not to nag when she had a run they both knew was dangerous, and he’d often caught the understanding in her eyes as she glanced at him before going out on the run. He’d spent hours listening to the silence, waiting for the sound of hoof beats to signal her arrival and he knew that his silence was a good thing from the small smiles she gave him and the stolen kisses she gave him before rejoining the group. Climbing the staircase he paused, yep it was harder than he’d imagined making it work but in the end he was sure he could do it. Knocking briefly on the door he opened it and stepped inside with a sheepish look at Lou who was lounging in the tub. “Sorry Lou. I tried to delay longer.” “No problem.” Lou said from where she lay in the tub her eyes closed as she rested her head against the back of it. “I’ll forgive you for it.” “We’ve got reservations at the restaurant for six.” Kid started. “What time is it?” Lou asked. “Five.” Kid replied as he unrolled his bedroll, he’d put his suit in it along with the duster and poncho he sometimes wore during the stormy parts of the rides. “Good. You want the bath when I’m finished or should I go get you another?” “I’ll just use that one.” Kid said with a glance at her. “It ain’t like you were rolling in manure or something. Just clean, honest dirt.” “Thanks.” Lou smiled at his words and glanced at him with a sharp look as he moved around unfolding his suit. “You brought your suit?” “Sure.” Kid smiled at her. “Same as you brought a dress.” “I think Jimmy’s getting suspicious.” Lou spoke softly as she shifted in the tub. “Him and Cody have been spending a lot of time with their heads stuck together.” “I know.” Kid acknowledged quickly. “I was sure that Jimmy would start something yesterday. I don’t know how we’re going to get him to forget about his suspicions.” “Simple.” Lou smiled at Kid. “We’ll keep him too busy to think. He seems to think when you get real quiet that you’re mad. Maybe we can use that to our advantage.” “I think we need to figure out something else to fight about to.” Kid said sitting in a chair and watching her. “You do realize that fighting over a run isn’t exactly the best thing to do.” “What did we fight about before?” “Everything.” Kid replied quickly. “Maybe we should try reverting to old habits in front of the boys.” “What do you mean?” “Arguing over you taking a run, me worrying myself into blisters. You know that sort of thing.” Kid said and held up his hand when Lou looked ready to argue. “Not that I don’t think you can do your job, and certainly not because I’m trying to tell you what to do. Your next run is out through Mattole isn’t it?” “Sure.” “Everyone knows it a dangerous route, what with the Indians, and the bandits. Maybe we could fight over that.” “Don’t tell me you think I can’t..” “Hell no.” Kid shook his head. “I’m well aware that you can do the run. You’ve done it twice already and you know to keep your gun handy and your horse at a lope.” “Good cause other wise I’d have to do something really mean.” Lou laughed and shifted. “If you’re going to have a bath you might want to pass me that towel so I can get out.” She pointed out the towel in question and waited for him to hand it to her before rising and stepping out of the tub. “Sound like a good reason to argue?” Kid asked peeling his clothes off and stepping into the tub as Lou quickly dried off before wrapping the towel around her head. “Sure. When are you due in?” “Tomorrow morning.” Kid replied making quick work of his bath. “And you?” “Tomorrow night.” Lou shifted and glanced at him. “You think it would be safe to hide out at the pond for a few hours?” “The creek would be better.” Kid said reaching for another towel and snagging it by a thread. “Nobody goes there.” “I hope you’re right.” Lou grinned at him and settled into a chair to tie her shoes and watch him dress. “Can we talk about something else now?” “Anything you want.” Kid replied as he grabbed his hat and settled it on his head. “You doing your hair?” “Yep.” Lou said jerking the towel off and tossing it at him before grabbing the brush and pulling her hair back into a jumble of waves at the back of her head and securing them with a comb. “There. Lets eat.” “You and your stomach are going to kill me yet.” Kid laughed as they headed downstairs hand in hand. Sitting down to dinner they laughed together as they retold old stories of runs and basically caught up on history without worrying about anything else. Keeping to safe topics usually worked when they were surrounded by people but every once in a while they’d slip in a serious conversation that would take hours to resolve, knowing this they stuck to safer topics. After dinner Kid sipped his coffee and smiled at Lou who picked at the chocolate cake in front of her. “You going to eat it or just poke it to death?” He teased. “I want it.” Lou looked at him with a guilty grin. “But I just can’t eat it. I’m stuffed.” “Well then I guess we’d better get you settled in.” Kid rose and held her chair for her. “You can sleep in tomorrow morning if you like, you don’t have to be back as early as me.” “Naw. We can leave together. I’ll just go spend some time at the creek.” Lou winked at him as they entered the hotel and moved to the clerk who looked tired. “Evening.” Lou acknowledged the man’s greeting with a slight smile. “How can I help you?” “Do you have any rooms available?” Lou asked and silently groaned when the man looked pained. “Oh dear I’m so sorry. I sold the last one just a few minutes ago. Perhaps you could try the boarding house.” He suggested. “That’s okay. I’ll let the lady use mine.” Kid volunteered and offered his arm to Lou as they started up the stairs. “You take my room, I’ll sleep in the barn tonight.” “Kid it ain’t like we’ve never shared a room before.” “Lou.” “We’re just going to sleep.” Lou smiled as they stepped into the room. The bath had been cleared out and their clothes were piled on the bed right where they’d left them. “I miss being able to sleep with your arms around me.” “I miss it to.” Kid admitted. “But I don’t want to rush you.” “We can sleep in our clothes if it’ll make you feel better.” Lou suggested. “That I can handle.” Kid grinned at her. “But isn’t your dress going to get wrinkled beyond recognition?” “Yes.” Lou shrugged. “Just means I get to sleep in my longjohns.” “Well into them then. I’ll be a gentleman and turn my back.” Kid said and promptly faced the wall as Lou stripped down to her skin and slipped on the pair of clean longjohns she packed with her. Hearing the bed creak Kid stripped off his jacket and boots and laid down next to her, pulling her closer to him as he pulled the single blanket over their bodies and snuggled into the pillow. “Mm this is nice.” “Yes it is.” Lou stifled a yawn. “Its really nice.” Feeling the warmth of the early morning sun Kid opened one eye and groaned. Despite being fully clothed and wrapped in blankets all night he’d barely been unaware of Lou’s warmth next to him. Every time she moved into his body he’d awakened and had to bite his lip to stop himself from groaning as his body came alive again. “Morning.” Lou’s sleepy word drew a smile from him. “Morning.” Kid said and untangled himself from the blanket to slip out of bed and stretch. “How’d you sleep?” “Better than I hoped, and worse than I expected.” Lou said sitting up and reaching for her pants. “How about you?” “Pretty much the same.” “Breakfast?” “You’ve got it.” Kid said with a groan and quickly changed into his riding clothes. “With a lot of coffee.” Smiling at his words Lou finished dressing quickly and gathered her things while Kid did the same before they left the room and headed downstairs on their way to the restaurant. Breakfast was quick, and they sat nursing cups of coffee in silence until the caffeine jolted their systems into some semblance of wakefulness. “I’ll see you tonight.” Kid promised as they led the horses out of the barn. “I wish we could ride together.” “I know but you’re were right. If the boys are out and see us together they’ll ask questions that we don’t need. I’ll be at the creek if you want to meet me there later.” Lou smiled at him as they mounted up and left town at a walk. They’d agreed over breakfast that they’d ride about five miles out of town together then they’d split up and Lou would take the safe route while Kid went through the gorge. “I’ll probably show up in the afternoon.” Kid smiled as they pulled up and stared at each other. “One for the road?” He asked glancing around. Hearing her laughter he leaned over and kissed her gently, softly before pulling back and smiling at her. “I’ll see you soon. Ride safe.” “Ride safe.” Lou said and watched him gallop off. When he had vanished she spurred her mount and headed home. Chapter Four Sitting on the porch Jimmy watched his peeling partner in silence. Lou hadn’t said more than two words to him since they’d sat down and he was getting a little nervous. “Hey Lou how’d your run go?” He asked knowing she’d gotten back last night while he’d been on his own run. “Fine.” Lou replied as she stared at the potatoes that she was peeling. She’d been later getting home yesterday than she’d wanted and Kid had been waiting patiently for her at the creek when she’d gotten in. They’d spent most of the afternoon cuddled up by the creek just watching the water, enjoying each others company but today? Today she had to admit that she wanted more than just the hugs and stolen kisses she’d been getting. “Louise can you go to Thompkins for me?” Rachel asked. “I need you to pick up a couple of things.” “Sure Rachel.” Lou said and rose easily. She’d discovered this morning to her horror that an old friend was in town, one she didn’t want the boys to know about. More importantly she didn’t want Kid to know about her. Going into town she’d be able to stop off and talk to Charlotte and clear up a few things. “Thanks Lou.” Handing the list to the young woman Rachel watched her walk off. She’d been silent since this morning when that Charlotte woman had shown up and it was beginning to worry Rachel. Walking up the street Lou spotted Charlotte by the store and sighed. Hurrying as much as she could without drawing attention she stepped into the store and glanced at Thompkins quickly. “I’ve got a list of things for Rachel.” Lou said handing it over quickly. “It’ll take me a few minutes fill it Lou.” Thompkins started. “I’ll wait.” Lou replied and moved to stand by the door. “Charlotte.” “Lou.” The older woman looked at her young friend with a slight smile. “What can I do for you?” “Wick’s is coming isn’t he?” She whispered. “Yes.” Charlotte knew better than to lie to Louise, the young woman had just as much at stake as she did. Memories flooded Charlotte’s mind of bruises and cuts to a young face, haunted eyes that seemed to swim in perpetual tears until she’d ran away. “Louise he isn’t going to know who you are.” “Yes he will.” Lou replied looking at her. “And everything that I’ve ever had is going to be destroyed by that.” Hearing Thompkins she turned and smiled at him before taking the two bags and starting back to the station. “Lou!” Stepping off the sidewalk Charlotte followed the young woman. “Lou, no one here knows anything about that night.” “There is someone who deserves to know.” Lou replied quickly and glanced at the ground. “Someone I should have told earlier.” “If he loves you he’ll understand. It wasn’t your choice.” Charlotte said pausing. “I’m sorry Lou, I never wanted to hurt you.” “I’ve got a run tomorrow I’ll be gone for a few days, hopefully by the time I get back this will all be over and I can have my life back.” Lou glanced at her quickly and saw the understanding in her eyes. “I won’t lose him again for nothing.” She snapped and turned to walk away leaving her old friend staring after her. “Dear God what have I done?” Charlotte whispered watching Lou walk away. She’d known that night when she’d escaped from Wicks that he’d follow, wanting the money she’d taken and it had plagued her but she’d pushed it aside, now she had to face the fact that she may have sentenced her friend to a fate that the girl didn’t deserve. Watching Lou ride out Kid frowned slightly something was bothering her. Something that didn’t include their relationship, or the friendship that they’d found within the time they’d been back together. In the two months since then they’d talked about everything and anything and yet there was some secret Lou was hiding, something that she was scared to talk about. He’d seen it in the quiet withdrawal from everyone in the last couple of days since her return from a run, the way she’d avoided looking at him or anyone for that matter. She’d spent the better part of last night in the barn and it worried him. Glancing at the others he wondered if he should saddle up and ride out to talk to her. Hearing gunshots he whirled with the rest of the boys and raced up the street to where a fancy dressed young man was holding the woman they’d met a few days before as Charlotte. “Get the doctor.” Teaspoon ordered and Buck raced off to do as he’d been bid. “It’s too late.” The man whispered as he stared at the woman in his arms. “She’s gone.” “I’m sorry. You see who did it?” “Wicks.” The man whispered. “He said she stole some money from him so he followed her. She didn’t have any money. I think he’s planning on leaving town now.” The man said. “Jimmy you and Noah see about rounding this fellow up.” Teaspoon glanced at Kid who had turned to head back to the station. “Kid what?” Pausing when he realized the other man wasn’t listening he glanced at Buck as he moved toward them. “Where’s the Kid going?” “I don’t know.” Teaspoon said as he glanced at the couple on the ground. Glancing up sharply as he heard hoof beats he frowned, Kid tore out of the yard in the same direction Lou’d gone and it worried him. Those two had a very delicate friendship, anything could set either of them off and on more than one occasion had. Shaking his head he turned back to the scene before him and put thoughts of Kid and Lou in the back of his mind. “Hold it right there.” Lou froze at the sickening sensation in her gut and turned her horse to stare into the eyes of the monster in her nightmares. “What do you want?” She snarled, hoping to bluff him. “My money Louise.” The man sneered at her and she felt her stomach roll again. God help her she wasn’t going to let him touch her again. She was too strong for that now. “I don’t have your money.” Lou snapped. “And if I did, I’d have given it away to a church or something.” “Don’t lip me you little whore.” The slap knocked Lou out of the saddle and onto the ground with a hard thump. Struggling to get breath into her lungs Lou watched him dismount and scrambled to her feet her hand automatically going to her gun. “Don’t touch me.” Lou whispered. “Or I’ll shoot you.” “You wouldn’t dare.” “Lou!” Kid’s voice had both of them turning. “He ain’t worth it.” Kid said his gun pointed at the man standing between Lou and her horse. “Teaspoon wants him.” “For what?” Lou asked rising, her gun hand steady. “He killed that lady that stopped off to talk to you the other day.” Kid replied quickly his gun pointed at the man who glared at him then at Lou. “Charlotte?” Lou gasped and glared at Wicks. “I should just shoot you now.” “You won’t though.” Wicks smiled at her and Lou glared at him. Holding her gun on him she waited for Kid to handcuff him before moving to swing into the saddle. “You want me to come back with you?” Lou asked, fearing the coming confrontation with Kid. She’d have to tell him the truth, and she didn’t want to. She didn’t want to see the revulsion in his eyes, or the way the love he felt for her shriveled and died. “You can if you want to.” Kid replied noting the uneasy and fearful way Lou was looking at the man in cuffs. “Might want to finish your run.” “I’m coming back to town with you.” Lou said suddenly, refusing to give Wicks any more power over her. She wasn’t going to be scared of him anymore, or scared of what he would do when he found her. Leaving Wicks in Teaspoon’s capable hands, Kid slipped silently away from the crowd headed down for the creek to think. He knew something was bothering Lou, had been in fact since Charlotte had come to town and he wanted to know what it was. Sitting on the log he stared at the fast moving currents and pondered things over until he heard footsteps behind him. Turning his hand on his gun he smiled at Lou who looked pale, and scared. “Lou? You okay?” “I’m fine.” Lou said sitting next to him. “He’s dead.” “Wicks? What happened?” “A friend of Charlotte’s killed him.” Lou said and glanced at Kid uneasily. “I um, I’ve got a confession to make.” “Have a seat.” Kid said with a smile and moved over to let Lou settle next to him. Studying her he frowned, the way she was hunkered around herself, one would think she was freezing even in the mid summer heat. “Lou you can tell me anything.” “That’s the problem.” Lou whispered staring at the water. “I don’t want to.” “Then you don’t have to.” “Yes I do.” Lou looked at her hands uneasily. Sitting in silence Kid waited for Lou to start the conversation. Something told him this concerned the pair that had been killed today, and more importantly it concerned her. No matter what she said, or had done he couldn’t see his feelings changing. Surviving was hard for anyone but a young woman was harder than a body could stand. Briefly he wondered what had her so scared, because fear was the only emotion on her face. He hoped it wasn’t fear over him or anything to do with his reaction because he didn’t hold her in judgment. He knew he’d done a few things in his life that were less than sterling, he didn’t feel as though he was better than anyone so passing judgment on the woman he loved only made him sick. “Charlotte was my friend.” Lou started quietly. “And she was a nice lady at that. We used to sit and talk for hours, I missed that until I met Emma, and you.” “It’s always nice to have a friend.” Kid whispered glancing at Lou who’d started worrying her bottom lip. “Look Lou it don’t matter what you’ve done in the past. You’re here now and that’s all that matters.” “It isn’t what I’ve done.” Lou whispered sliding to the ground and curling her knees up to her chest. “Its what someone else did.” “Okay.” Kid said and slid to the ground next to her, his head bowed to look her in the eye an uneasy feeling creeping over him. He’d never spoken to Charlotte, and yet somehow he’d known what she’d been and to hear Lou say that they’d been friends made him wonder what Lou would’ve been doing in a brothel. She was too untouched to have given her body very often. Hell she’d even flinched away from his touch in the beginning, a look of fear darting into her dark eyes. “I did laundry.” Lou started quickly, suddenly anxious to have it out in the open so she could hide from the pain again. “I worked there for a year before that night. Maybe if I’d been stronger, or smarter I’d have gotten away. Maybe if I hadn’t smiled at him he would have just kept ignoring me.” “Who?” “Wicks.” Lou replied and tossed a stone at the water watching it skim the surface before settling onto the creek bottom. “He locked the door behind him, I tried fighting him but he was too heavy. I’ve tried to block it out so many times but sometimes when I’m dreaming I can see it, feel him again and it terrifies me.” Kid stared at her as she hedged around saying exactly what happened and suddenly he knew. He knew what kind of monster Wicks was, and it made him furious. Nobody had the right to abuse a young girl like that, not even some hot shot business man. “Lou I’m sorry.” Shrugging Lou stared at her hands as she struggled not to cry, even as the tears slipped past her control. Heaving a sob she started to rise only to freeze when Kid pulled her into his lap. “I should go.” Lou cried softly. “No you shouldn’t.” Kid whispered rocking her back and forth. “What he did was wrong Lou. You didn’t do anything wrong.” “I should have been able to do something, scream even and I couldn’t.” Lou cried into his chest. “Shh.” Kid rocked her, his hand resting in her hair, holding her head to his shoulder. “How old were you Lou?” “Fifteen.” Lou replied. “You were still a girl Lou. There’s no way you could’ve done something to stop him. That’s why you’ve been so quiet the last few days huh?” Nodding Lou curled deeper into his chest, not wanting to look into his eyes. Now that he knew, would he turn away from her? Just because he was offering comfort didn’t mean too much. “Lou, Louise look at me.” Kid whispered tipping her chin up. He could feel the tension in her body and knew beyond a doubt that she was scared of his reaction but he didn’t want her to fear him. “Louise, look at me.” When she hesitantly glanced at him he smiled slightly at her and touched her forehead with his. “You’re going to be okay. You’re not alone this time, and he’s dead.” “But..” “But nothing Lou.” Kid shook his head firmly. “You didn’t do anything to ask for what happened. I don’t blame you, so stop blaming yourself.” “But you’re mad. I can see it in your eyes.” “Sure I am.” Kid shrugged. “But not at you. Never at you Louise. I’m mad that I didn’t know about this two hours ago. Hell if I’d have know I’d probably have shot him myself.” “You would have.” Lou laughed softly, hiccuping on her tears. “I was scared to tell you.” “I guess that.” Kid said pulling her closer and leaning back against the log. “It explains a lot though don’t you think?” “Does it bother you that you weren’t the first?” Lou asked quietly. “Was there someone other than me and Wicks?” Kid asked quickly. “No.” Lou shook her head. “I never let anyone get that close.” “Then I was still the first.” Kid replied nuzzling her hair gently with his nose. “Kid.” “Wicks raped you, he don’t count.” Kid replied firmly. “I was still the first one you chose to give yourself to, the first one you trusted enough to be intimate with. That makes me the first.” “Your logic is amazing.” Lou said snuggled against him, her head resting on his shoulder. “I don’t want anyone to know about this.” “Then no one will. My lips are sealed.” Kid replied as she glanced at him uneasily. “As far as I’m concerned there ain’t anything to tell anyway. The boys already think they know too much about you, why give ‘em something else to debate on.” “I guess you’re right. What if they find out?” “Who’s gonna tell them?” “I don’t know. There isn’t anyone else that knows I don’t think.” Lou shrugged her hands resting on Kid’s as they wrapped around her arms. “Then they’ll never find out.” “What about the nightmares?” Lou asked after a few minutes of silence. “They’ve come back. That’s why I’ve been spending so much time at night in the barn.” “We’re friends right?” Kid whispered as Lou nodded. “You have one just wake me up and we’ll sneak out to talk about it.” “The boys’re going to think we’re doing something other than talking.” “Lou I don’t care.” Kid shook his head. “I’m going to be here for you and that’s all that counts. Let them think whatever they want Lou, if you need something come to me okay.” “Okay.” Lou sighed quietly. “I should wash my face. Crying always makes me looked all spotted and red.” “Spotted and red on you looks sexy as hell.” Kid teased only too aware that she needed to forget what had happened to her. “But I guess you’re right. I’ll leave you to a swim and go find Teaspoon to see what he has to nag me about.” “I’ll see you at supper than?” Lou asked as he walked away. “I’ll be there.” Kid nodded and grinned at her. “Enjoy your swim.” “Kid?” Lou sucked in a quick breath and hurried to where he’d come to a standstill. “Thank you.” Leaning up on her toes she dropped a quick kiss on his lips, that quickly turned into something deeper. Pulling back before she could forget herself she smiled at him. “I love you.” “I love you to.” Kid whispered and tugged gently on her hair before turning and walking away. Chapter Five “Well if it isn’t the disappearing deputy.” Teaspoon’s rough voice had Kid grinding his teeth together. “Sorry Teaspoon.” Kid settled into the chair opposite his mentor’s desk. “I saw him headed out that way and followed. I didn’t think about it, I thought everyone else had seen him to.” Kid rested one booted foot against his knee and leaned back in the chair. “You should’ve said something. Just luck that Lou was there to help you out.” Teaspoon said and frowned when Kid smiled slightly, his eyes darkening at the mention of the young woman. “So what did he say on the way in?” “Nothing.” Kid replied quickly and glanced up as the door banged back against the wall and Jimmy and Buck walked in. “Matter of fact the only thing he did say was he was after the money she stole from him.” “Charlotte didn’t have any money.” “I know that.” Kid said glancing over his shoulder at the man in the cell. “All I’m saying is that’s what he was after. Who knows maybe he figured he’d get while the getting was good.” “You seen Lou?” Jimmy asked leaning against the railing. “She looked a little upset at the loss of her friend.” “No.” Teaspoon said and glanced at Kid who shifted to suddenly find interest in the wanted posters behind him. “Kid?” “Not since this morning.” Kid replied quickly, focusing on the wall behind Teaspoon. He knew Lou needed some privacy and he wasn’t going to spoil her swim just cause Jimmy wanted to talk. “Damn I swear that girl’s losing it.” Jimmy mused. “She don’t hardly talk to anyone anymore.” “Yeah Teaspoon she sick or something?” Buck asked as Kid rose and shook his head. “I’ll catch up with you later Teaspoon. Better go see if Rachel’s got dinner started.” Kid said and hurried out before he started laughing. Riding back to the barn he unsaddled Katy and put her up before climbing into the loft and sitting there to think. What happened to Lou had marked her whole life, scaring her immensely. He’d often wondered about the flinching, and the times she’s wake up in cold sweats, her eyes scanning the room as though trying to find an exit. How many times had she cried softly into her pillow at night as she curled into a ball and hunkered down under her blankets. Lou’s silence recently made perfect sense, she’d had to deal with the nightmare that she’d run from. That she’d been worried about his reaction had been evident even when she was telling him the truth, and deep down he knew she probably thought she had reason to fear that reaction. He could still feel the anger and rage that coursed through his body. He should’ve let Lou shoot the jerk but at the same time he wished it had been him that had pulled the trigger. Wicks had stolen something from Lou that couldn’t ever be replaced or taken for granted. Not only had he stolen her virginity but her innocence, the remainder of her childhood and it rankled him. The fact that Wicks had stolen from him didn’t escape his notice either, what he’d told Lou had been the truth. She had blessed him by choosing to give herself to him first, Wicks hadn’t been a choice therefore it didn’t count but at the same time it was irrefutable. Somehow, Kid couldn’t help but feel furious that Wicks had stolen his chance to show Lou what it meant to be loved that first time, the special time in a woman’s life. Briefly he wondered just how much Lou would withdraw from the relationship now that he knew her secret. Would she find some excuse not to take the runs they planned? Would she find something to put distance between them? That scared him almost as much as the rage he still felt broiling through him. He didn’t understand how anyone could do something like that to a girl, not even a woman although he knew it did happen. What kind of man would take advantage of a girl, granted Lou was beautiful but that didn’t change the fact that men weren’t supposed to abuse the women around them. “Hey.” Buck’s gentle voice had him turning to his friend with a raised eyebrow. “Hey.” “Rachel said she hasn’t seen you by the way.” Smiling Kid shrugged. “Just wanted out of the office.” Kid replied turning back to the window and staring out. “What’s on your mind?” Buck asked settling in the soft hay beside him. “I can read it in your eyes, something’s got you riled.” “Just something I’ve got to work out on my own.” Kid replied softly. “This concern us?” Shaking his head Kid smiled softly. “Not unless you can read minds.” He replied and glanced at his friend. “Nope. Sorry my friend I can’t do that.” “Thanks for the offer though.” Kid said and glanced up as the sound of hoof beats tore into the yard. “We expecting company?” “No.” Both men rose and headed down to see who had come in so quickly. Spotting Lou dismounting Kid hid his grin, it looked like she’d gone for her swim, her hair was soaked and her face had a scrubbed look all evidence of her tears gone. Catching his eye she smiled softly then turned away when Rachel appeared on the porch. “Looks like things are back to normal around here.” Buck said as Lou left the horse in the corral stripped off all tack and headed up to talk to Rachel. “Looks that way.” Kid agreed and watched Lou close the door behind her. He wasn’t too sure about that. Something told him that he was going to be spending a few all nighters in the barn talking. Sitting next to the creek a few weeks later Kid smothered a yawn, he’d been getting less sleep than he usually did and yet he didn’t complain. Spending time with Lou anyway possible was a huge bonus for him and listening to her talk out the horror of her nightly round with the nightmares showed him another side of the woman he loved. “You look as tired as I feel.” Lou’s soft voice had him glancing up as he struggled with another yawn. “Probably.” Kid said leaning back against the log. “How you holding up kid?” “They’re not as bad as before.” Lou admitted as she settled next to him. Last night she just crawled into his bunk and lay there dozing off and on until just before sunup. Somehow opening up, talking about it with Kid had helped to ease the trauma she’d suffered years before. “That’s good.” “For me. Not for you.” Lou snuggled up against him. “So what’s bothering you?” She asked after a moment of silence. “I can’t get over how angry I am.” Kid admitted uneasily. Despite everything he couldn’t shake the anger that seemed to cling to him at the thought of what had been done to Lou. “I can’t help feeling I’ve let you down.” “How could you have done that?” Lou asked. “You weren’t there.” “I know but I should have sensed something when we were dancing or something.” Kid admitted. “It’s like I wasn’t paying any attention to what you were feeling..” “I see.” Lou said and sighed softly as she moved to look at him. “The first time we made love Kid I was so shocked, it wasn’t anything like before. There wasn’t any pain, and your touch was so gentle, caring. Then it hit me as I lay next to you with your arms wrapped around me. You loved me enough to take the time to actually show me that it could feel good.” “Lou.” “No I’m serious Kid. I’m neither stupid nor blind, you’ve probably had women before me and you know more about sex in general than I do. Even during out worst moments, you know those awkward beginnings at Red Fern there was something that came through it all. It helped push the memories away.” “I just did what came naturally.” Kid muttered flushing slightly. “I wanted to please.” “Kid you do. Just by sitting there you help.” Lou admitted. “You can’t do everything Kid. You’ve never let me down.” “I should have shot the..” “You had no idea of what was happening. Its not like I told anyone.” “Still.” “You’re doing it again.” Lou advised softly. “Trying to be everything, and you can’t. What happened wasn’t your fault, it wasn’t my fault as you pointed out. Like Teaspoon said, you can’t save a person from themselves.” “I don’t know Lou. Saying it don’t help me shake the anger.” “Being angry is okay Kid, you know if you weren’t then I’d be worried.” Lou laughed softly. “As long as you’re not angry at me for what happened. If you are, I expect you to be honest with me about that.” “I’m not angry at you at all.” Kid shook his head quickly. “I’m angry at this useless feeling I’ve got. I can offer a shoulder to cry on, and a hug to help but what do I really know about how you’re feeling? How do I know what’s good and what’s bad to say.” Smiling Lou stared at him for a moment. “You know Kid, I think you just answered your own question.” “What?” “Being there for me is the best help you can offer. I know I can trust you, and that’s important to me Kid.” Smiling Kid ducked his head. “Then I’m not screwing this up?” “Of course not.” Lou chuckled softly. “So you gonna be ready for your run this afternoon?” “Why not?” Kid grinned at her. “You coming on it?” “Wouldn’t miss it for the world.” Lou said as they rose and headed back to the station. “So are we past arguing to distract the boys?” “I’m sure we will argue but it’s not important anymore. After all we are friends.” “Good.” Lou said and wrapped her arm around his waist. “I think we should have some fun tonight.” “Oh?” Kid glanced down at her and smiled as she winked at him. “What kind of fun are we talking about?” “Bring an extra blanket.” Lou replied and tugged on his hat. “See you at the station.” Laughing she turned and ran as Kid caught his hat and followed her. “I told you they were acting weird.” Jimmy pointed out as Lou and Kid hurried into the yard, laughing together. “Jimmy they happen to be friends.” Rachel pointed out. “Besides aren’t you the one that told me you were glad they were getting along so well? You can’t have life both ways Jimmy.” “It ain’t that. I know they’re hiding something and it’s bothering me.” Jimmy retorted as he handed Rachel another clothes pin. “They still argue but it’s not like they did before. The other day I thought Kid was going to break his teeth when Lou went on her run. You could see him worrying the moment she crawled into the saddle but he didn’t say a word.” “Maybe he values her friendship too much to just get carried away. Besides as you and everyone else likes to point out, it’s not his worry anymore.” Rachel said grabbing another sheet and holding her hand out for a pin. “Now then don’t you have something more important to worry about than what those two are or are not doing?” “But Rachel I hate..” “Jimmy.” There was an obvious note of warning in her tone and the incessant glare she gave him had him scurrying off toward the Marshall’s office. “Hey Rachel.” Lou smiled at the young woman and stared at a fast retreating Jimmy. “Where’s Jimmy going?” “To help Teaspoon.” Rachel said. “Now then you look like you’re in a good mood.” “I am.” Lou replied. “Why is there some law against that?” “No.” Rachel smiled at her softly and debated mentioning her suspicions. Something told her she would deny anything Rachel said about why the girl was in a good mood. “You better get ready for your run.” “Yes ma’am.” Lou said and darted off toward the barn as Kid came out leading Katy. Grinning at him she slid past him, sliding against him and earning a heated glance in the process. Sometimes life just couldn’t get any better. Riding out Lou followed Kid as they headed for Bedford a pleasant silence in the air as they galloped along. Watching him ride was almost as entertaining as watching him sleeping. Pulling up so Lou could ride along side him, Kid glance at her and smiled. She was everything to him and it showed. Quiet, capable Lou nobody would ever guess that she was so much more than that. He’d spent the better part of the last few hours with her eyes burning holes in his back and his whole body had come alive at the looks she’d been sending him. While he didn’t want to rush her into anything, he sure as hell didn’t plan on letting her go anytime soon either. “What are you so happy about?” “Being here with you.” Lou replied honestly, laughter dancing in her eyes. “No boys, nobody watching every move we make. If I wanted to I could kiss you silly and nobody would catch us.” “Lou you’re killing me.” Kid groaned as she spurred her mount on and tore up the trail, leaving him to bring up the rear. Urging Katy on he grinned, this was a viewpoint that he would never tire of. Lou rode a horse with the skill of an expert horseman, there was no unnecessary bouncing, no tension in her body as she guided the animal along. Beside the fact that she was as good in the saddle as she was at walking only increased his admiration for her, and yet he was still haunted by the niggling sense that he was leaving something out. That he wasn’t being honest with her or himself. Suddenly he longed for the night to come then they could make camp and sit down to talk . Grinning he shrugged, something told him that Lou had other plans that didn’t include talking for them tonight and he wasn’t going to complain. Pulling up in a stand of pine trees they dismounted and stripped the horses of their saddles as darkness seemed to close further around them until there was nothing left but the night sky and a few stars that had peeked out early. “God I’m glad to be off that animal.” Lou groaned as she plunked her saddle down on the ground. “Why is it that this ride seems like it’s taking forever?” She glanced at Kid who’d made a fire and was laying out his bedroll. “Maybe cause you’re not thinking of the run?” Kid suggested as Lou snuggled up into him as he sat on the ground. “You’re thinking of it as work.” “You think so?” “Sure.” Kid shrugged, his chest moving beneath her cheek. “I know I am.” “Mm, could be you’re a genius.” Lou said snuggling further into his warmth as a fire crackled pleasantly before them. “So what do you think?” “‘Bout what?” “I’m not dense Kid. I saw you grinding your teeth together the last time I took a run alone.” “I never said a word.” Kid pointed out. “I know.” Turning in his arms Lou smiled at him. “You hungry?” Frowning slightly at her Kid shook his head at her question. “What kind of question?” He started. “Cause frankly, I’m starving.” Lou whispered leaning forward until her face was inches away from his. “But not for food.” “Lou, this is sort of not what we agreed.” Kid pointed out as his body started to hum with the familiar sensations being this close to Lou awoke in him. “Not that I’m complaining.” “Good.” Lou whispered leaning forward to kiss him. “Cause then I’d just have to hog tie you.” Delving deeper into the kiss, she put all her pent up emotions, her fears and wants into it and moaned when he responded. She’d decided something about this relationship and she planned on getting all of Kid one way or another. Chapter Six Staring at the wheel on the wagon Jimmy couldn’t help the frown that marred his face. Ever since the Charlotte woman had been in town, Kid and Lou were acting really friendly toward each other. In fact not only had they gone on a run together without complaining but they actually seemed to enjoy it if the smiles they wore when they rode in were any indication. Turning from the wagon he glanced over his shoulder at Cody who sat dozing in the summer sun, yep looked like he needed some help on this one and Buck and Noah weren’t going to do. Rising to his full height he walked over and kicked Cody’s foot. “Cody wake up.” "Jimmy you better have a damn good reason for kicking me.” Cody complained as he pushed his hat up while the dark haired man sat down to his right. “What is it?” “I need your help.” “Okay.” Cody sat up straighter, his ego perking up already. If Jimmy needed help, he’d come to the right person. “What do you need help with?” “Kid and Lou.” Jimmy muttered glancing at the corral where the paint and black that the pair in question rode on a regular basis stood dozing in the late day sun. “What have they done this time?” Cody asked quickly, a frown marring his handsome face. “They didn’t argue or nothing when Teaspoon assigned them to a run together. In fact they seemed quite cheerful about it.” “And?” “And she ain’t been flirting with anyone lately.” Jimmy pointed out quickly, he was relieved that she’d flirt with him to piss Kid off but it would have been nice if she’d forgot about the sandy haired southerner and just focused on him for a bit. “I saw Kid head down to the creek this morning and Lou disappeared half an hour later. I was going to follow them only Teaspoon hollered at me and I couldn’t.” “You’re not jealous are you?” Cody teased with a grin. “Hell no.” Jimmy denied vehemently. “I would just like to know what the hells going on around here. One minute those two are at each other’s throats and the next they’re acting like the best of friends. Something’s going on and I would like to know what it is.” “Well we could track ‘em I suppose. Means we’d have to get Buck to help out.” Cody pointed out. “I know that.” Jimmy snarled. “But he won’t help out without a good reason and my curiosity isn’t good enough for him.” “Well then you’ll have to think of something.” Cody started then snapped his head around to stare at Jimmy. “I’m brilliant.” “Okay I’ll take the bait.” Jimmy sighed. “Why?” “Kid’s got a run tomorrow don’t he?” “Yeah?” “Get Lou to go for a picnic or something. You know something that she would do if they weren’t together.” “And if she refuses.” “Leave that up to me.” Cody smiled and rubbed his hands together. “I have a feeling she’ll be talking before long.” “Cody I don’t want to hurt either of them. I just want to know what’s going on.” Jimmy said quickly as the sound of hooves pounding on dried earth reached them. “Noah’s back.” “Damn. Why can’t he ever be late?” Cody whined and rose to his feet. “Come on. We can think of something later to get her to talk.” “As long as it don’t involve bloodshed.” Jimmy warned. “It won’t.” Cody smiled at him. “A lock and key maybe but no bloodshed.” “Hah. Just ours.” Jimmy muttered and shuffled off after Cody who looked deep in thought. “What are you two up to?” Noah inquired as he unsaddled his mount. “Nothing.” Cody chuckled. “Absolutely nothing.” Staring at Cody Noah glanced at Jimmy. “If you two aren't up to something I’m a monkey’s uncle.” “Cody’s going to help me with something.” Jimmy replied with a glance at his friend. “Since neither you nor Buck are interested.” “Of for pete’s sake. You’re still not going on about Kid and Lou are you?” Noah snapped. “They’re friends lets leave it at that.” “Noah they’re up to something. I can handle the friends part but if that’s all then why won’t they just come out and say so?” Jimmy reutnred. “They’re plotting something.” “Oh for.” Throwing his hands in the air Noah turned and headed for the bunkhouse. “Put my horse up will you?” “Sure.” Jimmy agreed standing next to the tired buckskin and watched the retreating rider’s back. He was going to get to the bottom of this if it killed him, and knowing Cody it might just be the least painful of means. Saddling Katy up Kid glanced up as a shadow fell across the barn floor in the early morning light. Smiling he stood and watched Lou walk into the barn, her shirt still hanging on the outside of her pants, her face cast in shadows as she moved. “I take it everyone’s asleep?” “Yep. Cody and Jimmy are up to something though so be careful.” Lou warned. “What do you mean?” “I have a feeling their up to no good. Spent most of the night after we all went to bed talking in low tones until I fell asleep.” Lou admitted twisting a lock of Katy’s mane in her fingers. “They’re getting suspicious again.” “Damn. Look I’ll only be gone a day, day and a half at most. Soon as I get back we’ll figure out what to do with that pair.” Kid said as he tightened the cinch and rested his hands on the saddle as he looked at Lou with a half-assed grin. “If you want though you an always shoot them. Make everyone feel a whole lot better.” “I might just do that.” Lou laughed and hopped up onto the stall wall and rested her hands between her spread legs as she watched Kid finished getting ready. “You sure about this run Kid? I mean Jimmy’s the one that switched with you wasn’t he?” “Yeah but Teaspoon said there’s an actual run..” Kid said and glanced past her as the bunkhouse door opened and Buck stepped out. “Damn.” “What?” Lou turned her head to stare at the half-blood who was stretching while staring to the east. “Could only mean there’s a rider coming in.” “I’ll be back as soon as I can.” Kid promised and dropped a kiss on her lips. “Hold down the fort while I’m gone okay?” “I’ll see you in a couple of days and don't go getting yourself into trouble.” Lou warned pointing a finger at him. “Or I’ll have your hide nailed to the barn door.” “Yes boss.” Kid laughed softly and led Katy out into the gathering sunlight before mounting up and turning west. He held Katy steady as the other rider tore into the yard and handed him a mochilla before galloping off without a backwards glance. “Okay Kid’s gone.” Cody muttered glancing out the window. Both Noah and Buck had taken off shortly after Lou’d come back in leaving him and Jimmy alone. “How do we get her away from here?” “I don’t know.” Jimmy snapped. “You’re the one with the brilliant ideas.” “Didn’t Buck said that he knew some herbs that would put a person to sleep?” Cody asked glancing at Jimmy. “Granted she’ll be madder than hell when we wake her up but still if she ain’t here then we can get her to talk.” “If she doesn’t kill us first.” Jimmy replied and glanced around. “Now how are we going to get Buck to tell us which herbs it was that we need?” “Simple we get someone to ask him.” Cody smiled. “I’m going to go down to the creek there’s an old cabin there we can talk to Lou there in perfect privacy.” “I must be insane to listen to you.” Jimmy muttered as Cody smiled at him and headed outside without a thought. “If Lou don’t kill us, Kid will.” “Naw. She’ll be back before he is so he won’t even know.” Cody’s words drifted back to Jimmy making him grind his teeth. “Cody sometimes I think you were dropped on your head as a baby.” Jimmy sighed and stuck his hat on his head. “Alright, I’ll get the dope from Buck, you just get the cabin set up. I want to know what’s going on and Lou’ll hopefully cooperate and tell us.” “We can hope.” Cody said as he moved off toward the barn. Watching the pair Lou frowned, they were definitely up to something and she wasn’t too sure she wanted to know what it was. Granted her and Kid hadn’t exactly been at each other’s throats lately, it was hard for her to fight with the man she spent hours daydreaming about, but still, to have Jimmy and Cody running around trying to find something out was hilarious although a tad dangerous. Shrugging her shoulders she headed for the barn, she had stalls to muck, then a chicken coup to repair. “But Buck it’s important.” Jimmy pleaded as he stood in front of Buck with his hat in his hands. As much as he hated begging he’d do it for this one time, his curiosity had gotten the better of him and he had to know what was going on. “No.” Buck shook his head. “I’m not going to tell you what it is, then you’ll just go try it on some poor unsuspecting fool.” “Only Cody.” Jimmy fibbed. “He’s a bigger pain than usual lately and I just want to put him out of his misery for a couple of hours.” “Sure you do.” Buck nodded as he hefted a feed sack onto his shoulders. “Which is why you’ve suddenly become inseparable?” “Buck come on this is important.” Jimmy pleaded and pushed aside the uneasy feeling in his stomach, he knew he wasn’t acting anything like himself. Hell he didn’t feel like himself, but he had to know if Lou and Kid were more than friends. “Jimmy you’re getting on my nerves.” “I’ll do all your chores for a week if you tell me.” Jimmy offered and silently groaned, Buck worked twice as hard as he did and both of them knew it. “All?” “All. For a whole week.” Jimmy promised quickly and sighed when Buck told him what the herb was and where to find it. “Don’t make me regret telling you Jimmy or I’ll have to pummel you some.” Buck warned staring at him with an impassive expression. “I won’t.” Jimmy said and turned back to the station. “I promise.” “Hah, I already regret telling you.” Buck muttered watching the other man race off. “If he’s using it on Cody I’m..I don’t know but it ain’t myself.” “You noticed it to huh?” Noah asked resting against the corral along with Buck. “I could’ve sworn Jimmy’s been losing his mind lately. Guess I was right.” “Maybe. Hope whoever he’s got in mind is somewhere safe and sound. I don’t think I want to be around when he starts using that stuff.” Buck grinned at Noah. “If it is Cody we’re going to be doubly lucky, maybe Jimmy’ll drink some of it to and then we’ll get some peace around here.” “You and me both.” Laughing at their friends they turned back to feeding the horses. Picking up Lou’s canteen that she’d set out for while she was working in the barn Jimmy poured the tea into it and capped it before darting back off toward the bunkhouse where Cody was waiting. They had horses saddled and ready, hidden behind the main house and Noah, Buck, and Rachel had gone into town to talk to Teaspoon so they should be able to make a clean getaway. Setting by the window Jimmy watched Lou appear but to their disappointment she didn’t seem to have any interest in her canteen as she headed for the toolshed. “Please let this work.” He muttered and waited a few minutes. When he didn’t see any further signs of Lou, he glanced at Cody. “Come on. W’er going to have to hurry.” “She didn’t drink any of it.” Cody said glancing up the street to see if anyone was coming. Seeing no one he darted fort the house. “Now what do we do?” “ I don’t know.” Jimmy drug a hand down his face and glanced outside. Lou had reappeared and looked like she was immersed in what she was doing. “we’re going to have to think of something else and fast.” “Yes boss.” Cody waved off the comment and hurried to retrieve the horses as Jimmy crept into the barn. Glancing around he sighed, Lou looked like she was busy brushing down her horse and he glanced at the water canteen. Could he tempt her into getting a drink? “Hey Lou.” “Whaccha want Jimmy?” Lou glanced at him and sighed. “If you’re wanting help setting the Kid up I’m sorry, not interested.” “Naw. He was right, she’s more interested in Cody than in Kid.” Jimmy said and reached for the canteen. “Drink?” “No thanks.” Lou smiled at him slightly. “Got work to do. Besides I grabbed a drink a few minutes ago.” “Oh.” Jimmy glanced around uneasily. With everyone due back soon he was runningout of options. Maybe if he just asked. “So you and Kid back together?” “Who said that?” Lou glanced at him subtley and sighed, Jimmy was looking perplexed not at all like he knew a big secret. “Just curious is all. I mean you two haven’t had a really good fight in weeks.” "Oh so since we’re not fighting we must be back together?” Shaking her head at the logic of her friend she patted Lightening softly as she stood running the curry comb over her shoulder. “Well I mean.” Shifting uneasily Jimmy glanced at lou then at the floor. “It’s not just that. You haven’t exactly been uh..” “Falling all over myself to talk to you?” Lou asked suddenly and shrugged. “Is it any wonder? If you aren’t trying to poison me, you’re plotting your next line of attack.” “Poison you? Who said anything?” “I saw you put something in my canteen.” Lou snapped and glared at him, her hands resting on her hips. “What was it?” “Tea.” Jimmy smiled. “Just thought you’d like a change of pace from water.” “So you had to be sneaky about it?” Lou replied with a firm pat on Lightening’s hip. “Jimmy when I know something that I want everyone to know I’ll tell you first. Okay?” Lou said patting him on the shoulder as she walked past him. “Until then, quit trying to figure out something that you’re off base about anyway.” Cursing Lou’s attentiveness to everything around her, Jimmy headed for where Cody was waiting with the horses. Swinging into the saddle he glared at his companion and shrugged. “She saw me.” He grunted as they trotted off. Buck glanced up as Jimmy and Cody trotted out of the yard and sighed, “they’re up to something those two.” He remarked to Noah who was sitting cleaning his gun, an oddity considering how seldomly the gun was used. “I know and I’m scared it’s going to come back and ht us.” Noah replied glancing up and reaching for his coffee. “You see Lou lately?” “Not since this morning when she was in the barn talking to Kid.” Buck said quietly. “Well at least those two have stopped fighting.” Noah smiled. “Course they can still get going on occasion but for the most part they’re pretty easy on each other and us.” “I know what you mean.” Buck chuckled at the thought of his two friends. “Wonder when they’ll wake up?” “Probably not anytime soon.” Noah said. “Pride goes before a fall, and gniether of them realizes that they’ve fallen for good. The way I look at it, as long as they aren’t throwing things at my head I’m happy.” Laughing Buck nodded and poured another cup of coffee before taking a drink and sitting down to repair the bridle he’d broken earlier. “Still it’s a lot better than when they were going together, all that mushiness and long drawn out stares that seemed to exclude everyone.” “Just be glad we didn’t get included. Can you imagine the embarrassment of walking in on them while they’re dancing?” Noah shuddered. “Call me a prude but that would’ve been disastrous.” “Couldn’t have been any worse than catchin’ em kissing.” Buck chuckled. “Man they used to sneak off to do that so often. Ifyou couldn’t find them, they’d be off stealing kiss and talking amongst themselves. It was better just to stop looking if both of them were missin’. Almost wish they’d still do that, you know it might help clear the air.” “Might.” Noah glanced up at the steady tread of booted feet on the porch. “Looks like one of those two knot heads is back.” “Sounds like it.” Buck said as the door opened and Lou stepped into the room with a dark look on her face. “Hey Lou.” “Don’t you ‘hey Lou’ me you jerk.” Lou snapped and slammed the door. “Why not?” Buck glanced at Noah who shrugged before returning his attention to the woman glaring at him like he’d grown a second head and sprouted horns. “What’s wrong?” “What did you give Jimmy to put in my water?” She demanded holding her canteen up. “I haven’t put anything in your water.” Buck started. “Oh really? Seems to me that you’re the only person I know that knows about teas and stuff , Jimmy sure as heck don’t so that means that you must have helped somehow.” “Oh no. Please tell me they didn’t.” Buck stood quickly and looked directly at Lou. “Lou I didn’t have anything to do with anything those two have done. Jimmy said he was going to use it on Cody.” “Sure you didn’t.” “Lou I’m serious. I wouldn’t have done anything like that.” Buck said as he moved away from the table slowly, sending a pleading look to Noah. “He’s right Lou. Buck’s been with me all day.” “What did Jimmy put in my canteen?” “It’s an herb.” Buck said quickly. “I’m sure he didn’t mean for you to drink it.” “According to Jimmy he did. Look just forget whatever you’re up to. I’m not going to warn you again.” Lou slapped the canteen on the table. “I’m not up to anything.” Buck protested quickly and glanced at Noah as Lou slammed out the bunkhouse. “But I know two jackasses that are.” “Why would they do that to Lou?” “Because they want to know what’s going on with her and Kid.” Buck explained and headed for the door. “All because they’re not at each others throats so much anymore.” “Did either Jimmy or Cody ever think that maybe they’d just decided to be friends? I mean they’ve known each other for months, its not unheard of to be friends with someone.” “I don’t think either of them is thinking too clearly.” Buck said sinking back into his chair. “I do know one thing, this is not something Jimmy would normally do.” “You know the old adage.” Noah smiled at him. “Curiosity killed the cat.” “In this case its going to be Jimmy and Cody.” Buck laughed as he picked up the bridle again and started working on it. “And I’m not going to help them in the least.” “You’d better not.” Noah said. “You’re likely to wind up on the receiving end of someone’s temper. Mainly Lou’s.” The sound of their laughter drifted outside to where Lou was sitting glaring at the horizon waiting and watching for two riders to appear so she could lace into them good. Chapter Seven Swearing steadily under his breath Kid glared are the young man standing between him and his horse. He was due back in Rock Creek this afternoon and nothing short of death was going to stop him. “I’m telling you there is no way you can just take off.” “And I’m telling you I’m going.” Kid snapped. “I’ve already got the pouch headed back to Rock Creek why would I hang around a little longer?” “Because you’re supposed to.” The man replied quickly looking nervously at the rider in front of him. “Look mister all I know is what I’ve been told. No express riders are to leave without talking to the station master for news on the trail.” “There isn’t any activity on the trail.” Kid ground out, anxious to get going. He was supposed to meet up with Lou tonight and he planned on being there. “I just came across it.” “Thank you can tell that to the station master.” The man replied tiredly. “You tell him. I’m going.” Brushing past the man Kid mounted the bay gelding and turned toward home. “You going somewhere?” The station master asked approaching the pair. “Yeah. I’ve got a run to finish.” “Just be careful. Ain’t no telling who or what’s on the trail.” “Nothing and nobody.” Kid muttered. “I’ll be careful.” He kicked the gelding into a lope and headed home. As son as he was on the trail and away from everyone he relaxed letting the gelding’s stride eat up the trail as he headed for the next switch. Hopefully he could get the ride out past Davenport this coming month. He’d been asking around and so far he figured it was the easiest, and safest place to be for a special evening out. In the four months since Amanda had been kidnapped, he’d come to learn a few things about Lou, and about himself . Like distractions didn’t work, admittedly he’d done some stupid things in his time, but dating Samantha had to be the worst. He’d done it out of spite and anger at Lou and regretted every minute of it when he realized that Samantha wasn’t anything like the woman he’d left behind. A woman he admired and trusted beyond just the trappings. With Lou he didn’t wonder if she wanted to be there, or if she was just pretending to be hanging on every word. With him she was honest and open and had a mind of her own. Smiling at the thought of Lou’s sometimes less than ideal reactions to things he’d planned Kid had to admit that he’d always felt that Lou’s temper was one of the things that he’d like so much about her. Sure they’d been doing a lot of talking, and a lot of sneaking around. The last time he’d been home for two days they’d snuck out after dark and gone down to the swimming home to spend some time together. Shuddering at the memories of the cold water on his heated skin Kid tightened his legs on the gelding, urging him a little faster as he let his memory wander back to that night. “Shh.” Kid whispered as Lou giggled softly into the sleeve of her long johns as they snuck out the door of the bunkhouse and closed it softly behind them. “You’re going to wake everyone up.” “No I won’t.” Lou whispered as she clung to his hand as they scurried across the yard in the dark. She glanced up at the full moon, thankful for that little bit of light. It meant that they didn’t need to risk lighting a lantern. Pausing in the barn they glanced over at the tool shed where Teaspoon slept and sighed, there were no signs of life in the windows so he was either sleeping soundly or in town at the jail. Either way they weren’t going to go looking for him. Grabbing the pile of blankets they’d hidden earlier, Kid smiled at Lou and leaned down to steal a quick kiss before they slipped back into the shadows and headed for the creek. Walking hand in hand they were silent as they moved, listening to the nights sounds and each other’s breathing. “Cody’s been nosing around again.” Lou said as they got to their destination. "I caught him sitting on your bunk trying to figure things out and boy did he look guilty.” “I know. They were trying so hard to listen in on our conversation earlier I didn’t have the heart to tell either of them that it was about them.” Kid laughed softly as he dropped the blankets. Sitting Lou on the log he quickly spread out the blankets and glanced at Lou who was staring at the dark water with the moons reflection splintering as it rippled with the current. “You gonna stare at it or swim in it?” Kid whispered in her ear as he bent to kiss her neck just below her ear. “I’m just waiting for you slowpoke.” “I’m right behind you.” Kid promised as she quickly stripped down and jumped in. Despite the heat clinging to the air from the day the water was still quite cool and she yelped when it touched her skin. “Cold?” Kid laughed as he shucked the last of his clothing and dived in next to her, coming up gasping for air as the coolness enveloped him. “Definitely not warm” He grinned at her as she splashed him. “Oh are you cold?” Lou whispered moving into his body. “I bet I know something that would warm you up in a hurry.” “Oh?” Kid raised an eyebrow as he watched her, the moon illuminating her pale skin so easily. Tracing over the curve of her shoulder and down her chest to glisten on the water lapping gently against her breasts. “Yeah.” Lou grinned suddenly, and pushed him under the water before ducking away as his head when under. “A swim!” Laughing she squealed when he came up and grabbed her to pull her deeper into the water, the familiar weight of his arms around her waist a comfort. “You’re going to pay for that Lou.” Kid growled low, shaking the water from his face as he pulled her against him for a split second. “And you are most certainly going to regret it.” Tugging on her, he got out to the deeper water and ducked under, pulling her with him before releasing her and swimming into the shallow water as she came up for air, sputtering and pushing her wet hair out of her face. “That was mean Kid.” Lou pouted as she watched him tread water. “Oh I’m sorry.” Kid laughed s she swam toward him, back stroking so he could stay one step ahead of her. “Did I get your hair wet?” “Alls fair in love and war.” Lou simpered at him, batting her lashes even though she knew he probably couldn’t see her doing it in the muted light. “And this means war.” Laughing at her threat Kid rolled over and swam back out into the deeper water to await her torture. Laughing at the water fight that ensued, he dodged her as she moved toward him until she slid beneath the water soundlessly. Feeling a frisson of fear when she didn’t come up right away in front of him he glanced around only to jump when a cold hand snuck around his waist to trail up his naked body. “Love or war?” Lou whispered in his ear, her breath hot against the chill on his skin. Turning in her arms Kid smiled at her as his hands wrapped themselves around her waist, “Definitely love Lou. Never war.” He whispered leaning into kiss her, groaning slightly at the response he got. Pulling her tight against him he held her with her legs wrapped around his waist as they floated in the slow moving water. “Kid?” Lou’s soft murmur had him pulling back slightly to look at her. “I’m sure glad you thought to bring blankets.” “So am I Louise, so am I.” Kid whispered moving back into kiss her softly. Jerking out of his memories Kid stared at the upcoming station and swore. “Damn it why couldn’t I be closer to home.” He muttered and did a fast switch before heading further along. Sitting on the stoop of the main house Teaspoon watched Lou as she moved between the bunkhouse and the barn. Following her and trying not to look obvious about it were two very familiar figures. For several days now they’d been trying desperately to find out what had her in such good spirits and he would wager a guess. Seems Kid was due in anytime and Lou didn’t look like she wanted to be anywhere else. He wondered briefly if they were back to being a couple then shook his head, they’d have to be careful if they were. Jimmy seemed determined to get to the bottom of Lou’s good moods lately and if what he’d been hearing was right, Lou or Kid was going to kill him. “They still at it?” Rachel asked handing him a cup of coffee. “Yep. Sorriest sight I ever did see.” Teaspoon said with a grin at her. “Course they may not live that much longer if she decides to be less tolerant of their shenanigans. “Rider coming!” Noah’s voice had everyone turning to see the familiar speckled mare that was galloping toward the station. “Looks like Kid’s back.” Pausing in the doorway of the barn Lou watched Kid come in and pass off the mochilla to a young rider from out of town. Watching Kid dismount she sucked in a quick breath and duckered her head as his eye caught hers; smiling slightly she bit her lip before heading further into the shadows of the barn to finish grooming Lightening. “How as the run?” Jimmy’s voice had her grinding her teeth. “Long.” Kid replied. “Spent ten minutes arguing with the station master at Owen’s Station, then my horse threw a shoe and I had to walk eight miles. And all that was before lunch. How was things here?” “Slow.” Jimmy said and glanced around. “Spent more time at the jail than anything.” “Really?” Kid glanced at his friend and surpressed a grin. From the look on Jimmy’s face he’d done something to annoy Lou and he was regretting it. “You spending a lot of time at the jail, you must be figuring on taking Teaspoon’s job.” “Hell no.” Jimmy said moving out of Kid’s way as he hefted the saddle onto the rack in the tack shed. “Just getting myself out of the way to speak.” “Good for you. Keeping out of trouble is always a good thing for you Jimmy.” Kid said as Jimmy glanced at the barn with a horrified look before muttering something and darting off toward the jail. “They still at it?” Kid glanced at Lou as he led Katy by her into the empty stall next to Lightening. Tethering her, he grabbed up the brushes and started to brush the mare down. “Of course. Meet me at the creek later.” Lou whispered. “After dark. We need to talk.” “Okay.” Kid said standing still as Lou brushed against him to squeeze his bottom cheekily before heading out into the sunshine and holler at Buck about something. Shaking his head Kid smothered a groan; if Jimmy and Cody were up to no good it was best to nip their plan in the bud before they really got going. Turning his attention back to his mare he quickly finished up with her grooming, fed and watered her and headed for the bunkhouse to catch a few minutes of sleep before Rachel rang the dinner bell and he had to sneak out to see Lou later. Fidgeting Cody watched Kid head for the bunkhouse and glanced around for Lou whom was standing talking over something with Buck. Sighing he sank down along the wall of the barn and leaning his head back. He’d thought for sure Jimmy could get an answer out of Lou but that attempt had failed and now they were back to square one with both Lou and Kid growing suspicious of their actions. He’d have to come up with something fast, he’d overheard Rachel and Teaspoon talking and Kid and Lou had the next long run in a couple of days and while he couldn’t speak on anyone else’s part he did have to admit that he needed to know something before then. Lying on his bunk Kid closed his eyes, his mind wandering back to the few stolen moments they’d managed to steal in the past few weeks. Sure they’d even danced once or twice but now it had more meaning than before, usually it was after a lengthy time apart or eve if they’d argued about something, anything. Knowing about Lou’s past he’d become more adept at sensing her mood, her willingness to do things, initiate things that often led to them making some pretty good memories; all of that had made it easier to put her first. Thinking of spending time with her at the creek he opened his eyes to an empty bunkhouse, he knew they’d have to figure out something to tell the boys else they’d be spending a good deal of time plotting against them. Sighing he realized that he’d long since stopped figuring on keeping their relationship a secret forever, he longed for a chance to just tell everyone about it and get it all out in the open again. With a small sigh Kid wished that they could talk to someone about their relationship, hell he’d welcome the chance to have everything out in the open again but knew that if they were to make it, things had to be as secret as possible for as long as possible. He’d seen the way Teaspoon would watch him or Lou and knew the old stationmaster was probably closer to figuring the truth than anyone but he didn’t mind. As long as Lou didn’t get hurt he’d put up with Teaspoon knowing. If Teaspoon knew then they could approach him about helping out with the boys but he wasn’t going to jump the gun. Hearing the door opening he glanced up and smiled as Lou slipped inside and breathed a sigh of relief. “I see it’s empty in here.” She smiled at him as she leaned back against the door. “Yeah. Cody and Jimmy are hiding somewhere so I guess we have a couple minutes of peace.” Kid said sitting up smothering a yawn as Lou sat down at the table and watched him with a funny little smile on her face. “What?” “You know everytime you do that it makes me want to crawl in next to you and curl up on you.” Lou admitted turning her head slightly. “I didn’t know exhaustion could be sexy.” “You never know what’s sexy until you look at it.” Kid replied as he rose to his feet and headed for the coffee pot. ‘For instance you look sexy as hell all sweaty and grimy after you’ve come in off a run, or been working on the fencing, in the corral or wherever.” Kid explained and poured a cup for Lou who sighed and wrapped her hands around it. “How’d things go while I was gone?” “Okay. Buck’s madder than hell at Jimmy and Cody and they’re hiding from me.” Lou said taking a sip of the strong brew. “Frankly I’m surprised that they’ve even bothered to show their faces.” “I don’t think I want to know.” Kid said sitting at the table next to Lou. “So we still on for tonight?’ “We are.” Lou smiled and shifted, leaning up against him with a smile. “So I’d better let you get some rest cause you’re going to need it.” Chuckling at her words Kid stole a quick kiss as the sound of movement from outside alerted them to the fact that they weren’t alone anymore. “I’ll see you tonight then.” “Okay. Don’t bring anything.” Lou whispered as he crawled back into his bunk. Watching him pull the blanket up over his shoulders she suppressed a shudder as her whole body hummed with pent up need and love for the man who sought sleep. Glancing up as the door swung open and Buck stepped into the room she smiled slightly at him and turned her attention back to her coffee. “I see Cody and Jimmy are nowhere to be seen.” Buck said settling next to Lou on the bench and glancing at the empty cup sitting on the table next to her. “Any coffee left?” “I think so.” Lou said as she watched Buck get up and fetch another cup to drink out of. She knew Kid wouldn’t have set an empty pot back on the stove so there had to be at least a cup left in it. “I owe you an apology for blowing up at you the other day. You didn’t know what you were getting into.” “Don’t worry about it.” Buck shrugged. “I’m still getting my satisfaction out of watching those two struggle to keep up with their promise and still stay out of sight.” “I know. Rachel wanted me to go into town, best get to it.” Lou said rising smoothly. “I shouldn’t be long if anyone needs me.” “Okay.” Buck said and slid a glance to the bunk where Kid shifted in his sleep as Lou walked out the door. They’d been talking when he walked onto the porch and while he couldn’t hear what them clearly whatever they’d been talking about hadn’t been bad. They were probably talking about Kid’s run or discussing the growing problem with Hickok and Cody. Shaking his head he rose, thankful that he wasn’t caught in the middle of the storm that was coming when Kid found out what that pair were up to. Staring at the walls of the bunkhouse Lou ground her teeth together and prayed harder than she’d ever prayed that Jimmy and Cody would fall dead from where they sat going on about some new girl in town. Didn’t they understand that she had a date tonight? Didn’t they understand that she wanted to meet Kid? Sighing she mentally shook herself, of course they didn’t. Why would they? After all they weren’t meant to know just yet that something was brewing between herself and the Kid. A fact that she was discovering was a mixed blessing. “Would you two shut up?” Kid’s angry growl had everyone turning to stare at him as he leaned on one elbow and stared at the pair at the table. “Awe Kid.” Cody whined. “If you don’t want me to get up and knock your heads together I’d suggest you go to bed. I spent the better part of two days straight in the saddle; in between arguing with ignorant station managers, walking miles when I should have been riding, and getting tossed I’ve had very little sleep. I’m tired and you two’s chatter is keeping me awake.” “Kid you’ve been sleeping all day.” Cody pointed out. “It ain’t like you’re missing any.” “Cody just go to sleep.” Kid ground out sitting up easily, ducking his head slightly so he didn’t connect with the bottom of Lou’s bunk. As long as those two were awake he couldn’t get out of the bunkhouse and meet Lou. Of course he knew she was still in her bunk, he’d been lying awake listening to her breath and feeling the slight movement of her body when she rolled over. “Grouchy that’s what you are.” Cody muttered. “You need to get out more. See some girls, jeepers you and Lou aren’t together you need some romance in your life. It would make you much more cheerful.” “Cody shut up before you get shot.” Kid grunted sitting down at the table and glaring at them. “You’d think you had to finish this conversation tonight.” “You’re still a grump.” Cody said as he crawled into his bunk, followed quickly by Jimmy hopping into his own bunk as Buck and Noah sat up as well. “Good night then.” Cody sneered and rolled over to settle into sleep despite the groans from the others in the room. Sitting sipping his coffee Kid waited until everyone had settled in before sneaking a peek at Lou who smiled back at him, glanced at the door and nodded. He moved silently in the darkness out the door and snuck over to the barn. He knew where the blankest and such were and figured if he got down there first he could get a small fire going and the blankets spread out before she arrived. Sitting on the blankets staring into the flames he sighed, he loved Lou just as much now as before but he’d grown up in the time they’d been apart. He’d gone from the self-possessed, ignorant boy he’d been when he’d first signed up to what he hoped was a good man in a short time. He’d learned the hard way that when it came to Lou he had to let her set the pace, let her feel like she was in control. Smiling at the thought he shifted, leaning back on one elbow and rocked a booted toe back and forth contentedly. Lou in control proved pretty intense at times, there were times when he felt like he was out of pace with her, but she always let him catch him up to her. Letting her set the pace for the intimate aspect of their relationship had proven to be more worthwhile than he could have ever imagined. The little things she’d done before that showed she was scared had faded, now she just responded wholeheartedly without that dart of fear when he touched her in the most elemental of ways. He wondered briefly if they could survive the coming hostilities that were tearing the country apart. He wanted more than just a fling with her, he wanted forever and not for the reasons that some would say. He sure didn’t feel like he had to do the right thing by Lou, hell if he could spend every day wrapped in a blanket with her he’d be happy. Instead he wanted to be there for her through the highs and lows, through babies, and bills, and all the stuff that came with living life. Sure he’d never really pictured himself settling down this early in his life but then he’d never imagined he’d meet Lou either. “You look lost in thought.” Lou’s voice had him glancing up as she settled next to him with a canteen and a wrapped packaged. “Just thinking of where I want to be in ten years.” Kid replied with a grin. “Oh?” Lou asked one eyebrow going up as she stared at him uneasily. They’d very rarely spoken of the future, more concerned with living in the moment, not wanting to rush into anything and make the same mistakes twice and yet deep in her heart she longed for this conversation. She could clearly see herself in ten years right where she was now. Next to the Kid with a blanket and the stars over them, babies, and daily chores, but no matter what it was the Kid she wanted to be with. “Just thinking that in ten years I’d like to be wrapped up in a blanket with you sitting staring into a fire without a care in the world.” Kid admitted pulling her closer to him and smiling down into her upturned face. “You know the worries of the day gone, just us alone.” “I suppose you’re going to say talking?” Lou asked with a soft laugh. “Doing whatever we want.” Kid replied his fingers tracing an invisible pattern on her arm through the cotton of her shirt. “Talking, dancing, just holding onto each other. You know the normal stuff, the everyday stuff.” “Mm.” Lou nodded slightly. “You do realize that in ten years I’ll be nearly thirty.” Lou whispered. “Old and fat.” Laughing uproariously Kid pulled her tightly against him and tickled her without a thought to anyone or anything. “I don’t care if you’re bald and hunched back I’m still going to love you no matter what.” Kid said laying partially on her as he stared down at her smiling face. “Good.” Lou said and snuggled into his warmth as she reached for the canteen and offered him a drink. “It’s water. I was going to bring lemonade but the boys drank it all.” “Don’t matter.” Kid said with a half smile and took a long drink before putting it down to stare into the flames with his arms wrapped around her. “So what did Jimmy and Cody do while I was gone that’s got everyone so upset?” “They tried to drug me.” Lou muttered angrily and tensed when he shifted to look down at her. “WHAT?” Kid was incredulous; he couldn’t believe they’d try something that underhanded. “See they figured that I’d tell them if we were together if they kidnapped me. Only problem was I’m not as naïve as they like to think.” Lou laughed. “Buck threatened to scalp Jimmy if he didn’t apologize and they’re still hiding out from me.” “Serves ‘em right.” Kid growled a frown marring his face. “You okay?” “Sure. I didn’t fall for their tricks and now they’ve got to come up with some other idea to get what they want.” Lou shifted, resting her chin on Kid’s chest as she stared at him. “I thought for sure Cody was going to stick his foot in it when he said you needed a little romance in your life.” “I’ve got all the romance I need.” Kid whispered gently. “I’ve got you and as far as I’m concerned that’s romance enough.” “Sometimes Kid I think you’re the best liar in the world.” Lou laughed. “I’m not anything like the other girls.” “Hey if I wanted another girl, I would get one. I want you, your temper, your bullheadedness, your stubborn refusal to listen when I say it might be dangerous..” “I get the point.” Lou laughed at him as he categorized her faults. “And right back at you for that matter.” “So what do you think we should do about Jimmy and Cody?” Kid asked after a few minutes of companionable silence, his mind more on Lou’s fingers and what they were doing to his shirt buttons than his question. “Shoot them?” “Too much blood.” Kid replied as another button slid free. “We got a run that they could take?” “Sure they can go to Georgetown.” Lou said as she shifted, her warmth pressed against him. “That way we can get out toward Bellevue next month.” “Have I told you recently how much I love the way your mind works?” Kid asked as he lay still under her hands as she freed the shirt from his pants. “I don’t mind being reminded.” Lou giggled as he rolled, pinning her beneath him, his head bending down to kiss her silly even as her arms crept up to wrap around his neck. Moaning softly into the kiss she forgot the boys, forgot everything but the man holding her as the flames danced across the pale skin that was slowly being revealed. Chapter Eight “Come on Teaspoon!” Cody whined. “I don’t want to go to Georgetown. I made it last time, send someone else.” “You and Jimmy are the only two riders that are free.” Teaspoon snapped. “Quit yer bellyaching and get a move on Cody.” “But Teaspoon.” Cody paused when he saw the familiar look on his boss’s face. “It ain’t fair Teaspoon.” “Get.” Hiding his grin Kid watched Cody and Jimmy saddling up for the run from where he stood leaning against the barn’s doorjamb. “Are they still whining?” Lou asked softly coming up behind him to trace one hand down his back, her fingers catching in his belt. “Yep and doing a pretty good job of it to.” Kid said with a grin as he glanced down at her. “Pity Buck and Noah aren’t here to see it.” Dropping an arm around her shoulders he gave her a slight squeeze. “You’ve got a run tomorrow, you want me to take it?” Kid asked as she smothered a yawn. They’d managed to sneak back in last night closer to dawn than dusk glad that everyone was still sleeping and it showed on both of them. “Why?” “Cause you’re looking a bit tired there girl.” Kid said imitating Teaspoon and ducking when she threw a mock punch at him. “Just kiddin’.” He laughed at her as she glared at him and headed for the bunkhouse. “Just for that you can chop the wood.” Smothering a groan Kid eyed the woodpile with a pained expression. The last time he and the woodpile had met, his hands were covered in blisters that had blisters. This time he had gloves and the need to get out of the sun, so maybe he wouldn’t go overboard. “Damn women.” Kid growled. “Never get any respect.” “Don’t forget to bring some in with you.” Lou hollered as she hopped onto the porch of the bunkhouse and opened the door. Shaking his head, Kid picked up the axe and glanced at the bunkhouse, “I haven’t forgotten.” He muttered. Picking up a block he sunk the axe bit into it with a vengeance and felt a little of the exhaustion leave his body. Working steadily he had a fair sized pile going before he called it quits and headed for the shower beside the bunkhouse. By an unwritten agreement everyone but Lou used it so it was always stocked with soap and such. Kid sighed, Lou hated the bath almost as much as he did but they couldn’t take the chance that she’d be discovered and lose her job. Stripping to his bare skin, Kid stepped into the stall and pulled the rope that opened the bottom of the barrel full of water. Letting the cool water wash over him he stood there a few moments enjoying the refreshing feeling of its tepid temperature on his hot skin. Reaching for the bar of soap he patted the ledge and silently cured, he was certain that there had been a block there before. Pushing his wet hair out of his eyes he glanced around and spotted the bar of soap in front of him, held in a familiar hand. Following the line of ascent he stared at the soaked shirt that covered the pale skin under it but didn’t hide it, up over a shapely shoulder to a pixy face that grinned at him. “What are you doing in here?” Kid whispered glancing around sharply. “Being bad.” Lou whispered. “Teaspoon’s at work, Jesse, Rachel, and the boys are in town. We have the place to ourselves for a few minutes. When you’re done your shower, come play.” She whispered trailing a hand across his naked abdomen and grinning when he sucked in a breath. “I’ll be in the bunkhouse.” Groaning at her Kid watched her walk away, her vest offering some cover but still anyone with eyes could plainly see she was a girl. “She’s going to be the death of me.” Kid groaned and tossed the soap in the air. “But I’m not complaining.” Finishing his shower in record time, Kid pulled on a clean pair of pants and his moccasins before grabbing his dirty clothes and heading inside. Stepping into the door he dropped the dirty clothes into the hamper Rachel had set up with strict instructions that clothes were the only things to go in it and closed the door behind him. Spotting Lou perched on his bunk, still soaking wet without her vest Kid groaned. “What exactly are we playing?” Kid asked as he stared at her swing her foot back and forth from the edge of the bunk. “How far can we go before we get caught.” Lou said taking her bottom lip in between her teeth. “Granted it’s a frustrating game but the rewards are worth it.” “If the boys come back how do you propose we explain ourselves?” Kid smiled at her as he shook his head and moved further into the room. “I’ll think of something.” Lou whispered crooking a finger at him. “Come play.” “Where’s your binding clothe?” Kid asked noting the way the white cotton clung to her curves and smothering a groan as other parts of his body became only to aware of that as well. “I took it off. It was wet and itchy.” Lou replied trailing a finger down his chest, stopping just short of his waistband. “Ready to play?” “So who starts?” “You can if you want?” “I think I already have.” Kid groaned and smiled at her. “Okay, what am I losing?” Lou adopted a playful pout. “My mind.” “Kid be serious.” Lou protested with a laugh. “Play the game by the rules.” “I am.” Kid said leaning forward to kiss her gently before standing back and studying her. “You’ve still got all your clothes on and I’m half naked. I’d say I’m playing by the rules.” “So what am I losing?” Lou repeated knowing Kid’s gaze had been drawn to her unbound breasts. “Boots.” Kid grinned when she groaned. “Kid that’s insane. Why would I lose my boots?” “This is a game of temptation and frustration right?” “Yes.” “Then the boots go and I’ll think of what’s next.” “I might just kill you before then.” Lou groaned as she toed her boots off and kicked them toward the door. “My turn?” “Your turn.” Kid smiled. “Just remember I don’t have as many clothes as you do so you’re going to have to be careful.” Grinning suddenly Lou nodded. “Agreed.” Raising a finger to her lips she smiled at him with an evil glint in her eyes. “Top button on your pants.” “Just the top button?” Kid asked reaching for it. “Just the top button for now.” Lou confirmed and watched him slip the button through the hole. Smothering a groan she shifted, this was going to be harder than she thought. “Socks.” Kid whispered standing toe to tow eith her and watched as she sighed and picked one foot up to pull the wet sock off without breaking eye contact. “And pants.” “That’s two.” Lou protested. “So it is.” Kid chuckled. “Pants as well Louise.” Groaning she quickly shucked her pants down her legs and kicked them out of the way. “Two buttons.” She said as his fingers moved to the waistband of his pants. “And I get to do it.” “You’re killing me.” Kid groaned as her fingers brushed against the naked skin. “But keep going.” Laughing Lou slipped the second button through the hole and stepped back with a simmering look. “Next?” Biting his lip Kid groaned and met her eyes, staring at her he grinned as he gaze widened before he reached over and pulled her against him so the wet shirt was sticking to both their skin. “Your shirt.” He whispered dropping a kiss on her lips. Riding into the station Buck groaned when he realized the place was deserted. It looked like Jimmy and Cody had slunk off to town, and everyone else was somewhere else. Lou and Kid had runs so he didn’t think they’d be here and he might just get the chance to have a couple hours of sleep before the place was a hub of activity before dinner. Unsaddling his mount he quickly headed for the warmth of his bunk only to pause on the top step of the bunkhouse and cock his head. The soft laughter he heard had him glancing around and he shrugged, probably Cody with one of his girlfriends Buck decided and opened the bunkhouse door. “Oops.” Buck froze as two sets of eyes turned to him, one blue and other brown. Both of them were soaked. “Hi Buck.” Kid said and glanced at Lou who still stood behind him, her shirt tangled in his grasp. “Hi. What happened?” “I fell.” Lou said. “Kid needed a bar of soap since someone stole the last one and I went to get it for him and fell through the gate.” “You okay? You want me to go get Doc?” Buck asked noting the embarrassed look on both their faces. “I’m fine.” Lou said. “She’s half drowned but other than that okay.” Kid explained. “If you don’t mind though, could you grab her some dry clothes, she’s still a little wobbly from her fall.” “Sure.” Buck said concern replacing his doubt at the way Lou was leaning on the Kid. Turning he headed for the clothesline and a change of clothes for the young woman. “That was close.” Kid whispered grabbing for a blanket, only to freeze when Lou grinned at him and rose up on tiptoes. “What?” “Thanks.” Lou said. “We’ll pick this up later okay?” “Okay.” Kid promised in a whisper as he wrapped a blanket around her. “Act wobbly.” “I don’t know how.” Lou snapped glancing out the window to where she could clearly see Buck taking clothes off the line. “Like this.” Pulling her sharply to him, Kid kissed her silly, his hands tangled in her hair to hold her steady as he plundered her mouth. “Course now I need to sit down as well.” He whispered at her dazed look. “Oh my god.” Lou whispered clinging to him. “Where’d you learn that?” “From you.” Kid whispered in her ear as Buck jumped onto the porch with the dry clothes. “You sure you’re okay enough for us to step out and give you some space?” He asked quickly so Buck wouldn’t think anything of him still holding her steady. “I think so.” Lou said as she sank down on to Kid’s bunk, the dazed look in her eyes. “Alright. Holler if you need help.” Buck said as he followed Kid’s lead and stepped out onto the porch and closed the door. “I thought you two had a run to make.” “We did fortunately Teaspoon decided that Jimmy and Cody could make it instead.” Kid explained sitting down and crossing his legs, his body still hadn’t calmed down and he didn’t want to explain his condition to Buck. “I don’t think Lou should take her next run if she fell. I mean she could have hurt herself.” Buck said glancing at Kid who looked only slightly guilty and wouldn’t meet his eyes. “How you doing? You look as soaked and uncomfortable as a body can be.” “I’m fine Buck.” Kid said shifting uneasily. “Just glad that I was here when Lou fell.” “So am I.” Buck said hiding a grin. Sooner or later those two would realize that they were meant to be together and quit acting so foolishly. Until then he’d keep his humble opinion to himself and just watch and wait. Dressed in dry clothes Lou opened the door a crack to see Buck and Kid sitting on the porch, staring at the barn and grinned. What Buck didn’t know certainly wouldn’t hurt the man but she sure wished he’d been a half hour later. “You want coffee?” Lou asked opening the door further and smiling at the pair. “Sure.” Kid jumped up and headed back inside with only a quick glance at Lou that promised they’d pick things up where they’d left off. “Coffee sounds good. As long as there’s something to go with it.” “Biscuits.” Lou said pointing at a plate on the counter. “Rachel must have left them earlier.” “Sounds good.” Buck said noting that Lou had piled her wet clothes next to the hamper and that there was a very noticeable wet spot in the middle of Kid’s bunk. Shaking his head he wondered just what he’d walked in on. “Teaspoon got the new schedules up?” “No.” Lou shrugged. “Leastways not that I know of. Course that ain’t saying much, he’s been a bit preoccupied lately.” “Figures.” “He said he was going to do it up today.” Kid put in and poured a cup of coffee. “So hopefully he’ll have it ready for tonight.” “I hope so.” Buck said. “I don’t want another long run for a couple of weeks.” “I see you three are here.” Rachel’s voice had them glancing at her. “Teaspoon’s got the schedule ready, Kid you and Lou have the Bellevue run.” “Thank you.” Buck breathed. “Hey.” “It’s a week long run, something I just came off if. I don’t need or want another one.” Buck explained. “You can have it and I’ll take a nice short run.” “Thanks.” Lou glared at him then grinned at Kid who winked at her and took refuge in his cup of coffee. “Oh by the way this Saturday night, everyone who’s here has to be at the church social.” Rachel declared. “Teaspoon figures you boys and girl can mind your manners.” “Rachel you know I don’t mind socializing but do I have to go?” Lou said with a frown. “All I do is sit in a corner anyway.” “I know but Teaspoon figures everyone should be there.” Rachel spoke almost apologetically. “Fine.” Lou said suppressing a shudder “When’s dinner?” “About an hour.” Rachel replied glancing at Kid who shrugged slightly. “Good then I can go check on Katy.” “Don’t get dirty doing it Kid, or you’ll be washing up again before dinner.” Rachel warned. “Yes ma’am.” Kid said and hurried out the door. Walking to the barn he couldn’t help but feel mad at Teaspoon, it was torture for Lou to have to sit in a corner all night as it was. Maybe they could sneak out and spend some time together without being noticed. Leaning against the stall door he stared at Katy who stood flicking flies and dozing softly. “It’s not the end of the world.” Lou’s soft voice had him turning to smile at her. “What?” “If I have to go to this social.” Lou said leaning against the wall next to him. “It ain’t the end of the world. I’ll just find a nice comfortable corner and sit down in it to watch.” “You shouldn’t have to.” Kid muttered. “Don’t start with that.” Lou pointed a finger at him, irritation in her stance. “Start with what?” Kid snapped. “If I quit I could dress like a lady routine.” Lou snarled. “I would’ve thought you’d understand by now..” “I ain’t saying you have to quit, hell I didn’t even think it.” Kid replied quickly, his anger still simmering. “You’re the one that brought it up.” “Then what did you mean?” “I was going to suggest we go, then sneak out. If nothing else we could sit outside and listen to the music together, even get a couple of dances in.” Kid said and grinned when she flushed. “With everyone there?” “Not that kind of dancing.” Kid whispered. “You know like before, when nobody knew.” “Really?” “Yeah. Nobody’s going to miss either of us you know. They’ll be too busy squabbling over the girls, and trying to outdo each other. Come on it’ll be fun.” “Okay.” Lou said looking at him suspiciously. “But no funny stuff.” “Lou.” Kid grinned at her as she backed away from him and headed for the door. “Rachel said to tell you to come in. She’s got dinner just about ready and figures you’ll need to wash up.” “Thanks.” Following Lou out the door he headed over to the washbasin washed up and headed inside. His mind made up, the social was going to be fun for Lou even if it killed him. Watching them Buck couldn’t shake the feeling that Cody and Jimmy might have something. For someone who’d slipped in the shower, Lou didn’t seem to have a single bruise on her, nor did she seem like she was favoring her head. In fact she’d moved around just like she normally did, not even blinking when the bright lights hit her eyes. If she hadn’t fallen then what was the real reason they were standing so close together? Besides that if Kid had been naked when she fell why did he take the time to get dressed before bringing her inside? And why would Lou be half undressed? He wondered as he glanced at where Lou’s wet clothes still lay. Hearing someone talking to him he glanced up and smiled easily, forgetting for the moment just what his thoughts had been headed. Chapter Nine Tugging on her tie Lou glared at the others as they puttered around getting ready for the upcoming social this evening. She dreaded it with a passion, the Kid and her would have to wait until the party was in full swing before they could sneak out or they’d be missed. Without thinking about it she glanced at the Kid and felt her heart stop, he looked so good in a suit. Turning to grab her hat she tried to stem the thoughts running in her mind, he looked good in anything or in nothing at all. “You guys ready?” She ground out as she headed for the door. “Yeah.” Cody sighed. “Lets get going, don’t wanna be late.” “Speak for yourself.” Lou snapped as she opened the door and the boys started filing out until Kid grabbed the door and held it. Glancing at him she noted the familiar look in his eyes and flushed slightly before ducking out the door and heading for her horse. “This’ll be fun.” Kid whispered just for her to hear and straightened to grab Katy’s reins. “Hey Rachel you look really nice.” He said acknowledging the housekeeper who walked toward them in a new dress. “Thank you.” Rachel smiled at him. “You boys are riding to the church?” “Of course.” Jimmy said. “It’s the other side of town, ain’t no point in walking.” Shaking her head at them Lou swung into the saddle, she rode for a different reason, one that was as private as it was special. After they snuck out they were going to have their own social this evening and she didn’t want to be late for it. Pulling up in front of the church the boys dismounted quickly and waited impatiently for Rachel to join them. “See it didn’t take that long to get from the station to here.” She admonished gently as she joined them quickly. “Now remember, best behavior and no fighting.” “We won’t.” Jimmy promised and glanced at the others, Lou looked less than comfortable but what was new, Kid looked impatient, and the others had varying degrees of indifference and excitement on their faces. “We’ll be choir boys.” “You’re so full of it Jimmy.” Cody laughed. “Come on, they’ve already started.” He darted past everyone as the music began to swell filling the night with it’s soft tempo. “Well you ready for this?” Rachel asked Lou who shrugged and started inside a distant look in her eyes. Lou was ready alright, and she didn’t think the girl was happy to be stuck in a suit watching the girls in their fancy dresses. Making up her mind to talk to the boys she watched Lou slink off to find a chair in a corner and Kid head for the punch bowl. Frowning slightly when he grabbed two cups and headed over to give one to Lou, Rachel shook her head. She’d heard them fighting in the barn the other day and now they were talking to each other? “Rachel don’t you look lovely.” Teaspoon’s voice had her glancing at him. “Thank you. The boys promised to be on their best behavior.” “I’m sure they will be.” “They better be or they’ll be doing the dishes for a week.” “Now that’s a threat.” Teaspoon laughed. “Shall we?” “Indeed.” Rachel laughed softly and followed him onto the dance floor. Sitting patiently Kid watched the others fall into their usual routines, Buck and Noah against a wall talking amongst themselves, Jimmy and Cody out on the dance floor trying to outdo each other, even Teaspoon and Rachel were dancing. “Do you think they’d notice if we disappeared?” Lou whispered softly. “Nope.” Kid said. “Come on lets get some air.” He said rising to his feet and heading for the door, Lou close behind. Pausing at the door he glanced around, the others were still immersed in their own things thankfully so he let Lou step out before him. Sticking to the shadows they hurried to the corral across the street and stopped laughingly gasping. “This gets more fun every time we do this.” Lou giggled. “What does? Sneaking around?” “No pulling one over on the boys.” Lou smiled at him. “They’re still in the dark.” “Which is a good thing or else we’d be listening to them exchange stories about what they would do if they were in our place.” Kid shuddered and grinned at Lou. “May I have the pleasure of this dance?” “You may.” Lou said quickly and moved into his arms moving slowly to the faint music that echoed around them. Staring down at Lou in the muted light Kid felt his heart kick and sighed, holding her tonight was so special. The warmth of her body seeped through his clothes as they moved together, each subtle breath she made brushing her curves against him. The warmth of her under his hand on her back as they moved slowly, bodies brushing against one another, giving him the desire to hold and protect her. “What?” Lou asked softly as she stared at the look in his eyes, the banked desire, and the open need telling her his mind had wondered from the dance. “Just thinking of how much I love dancing with you.” Kid replied. “I guess I never thought of the way you feel just moving against me when we’re dancing.” “Well that’s usually cause you’re too loud when we’re dancin’.” Lou laughed. “I meant like this.” Kid said pinching her lightly. “Just holding you, feeling your warmth against me is nice.” “Soothing even.” Lou said as she leaned her head against his chest and swirled into the waltz. “I miss the dress though.” “Who knows, maybe someday you won’t have to miss it.” Kid whispered softly. “Maybe someday you’ll have the dress, the fancy clothes, all that stuff you deserve.” “It’s funny though.” Lou paused and glanced up at Kid as the music from inside paused. “When we’re together I don’t feel like I’m missing it. Sure I’d like to dress up just once when we’re out together but if I had to choose between the fancy dress and you. It ain’t much of a choice Kid.” “I feel the same way.” Kid said pulling her to him and smiling into the darkness. She deserved the fancy dress, the night on the town and he’d give it to her soon. Suddenly he wished that they were leaving in the morning for Bellevue, then they could stop on their way back in Davenport and spend some quality time together. Glancing around Jimmy picked up the glass of punch and frowned at the corner. Turning he cast his glance over the room and spotted Cody talking to Noah and Buck. Moving quickly toward them he smiled at the young ladies in his path then slapped Cody on his arm effectively ending the conversatin he’d been having. “You’d better have a good reason..” Cody started. “They’re gone.” “What?” Cody spun around glancing hurriedly around the room. “When?” “I don’t know.” Jimmy spat out. “I just noticed it when I glanced at the corner.” “Who are you talking about?” Noah asked. “Kid and Lou. They’re gone.” “So? Lou probably went home and Kid went to check on Katy.” Buck said remembering the young man’s fondness for his horse. “No I don’t think so.” Jimmy said quickly shaking his head. “I’m going to go find them.” “I don’t recommend it.” Buck said. “Rachel’s watching every move we make, you take off she’ll have you doing the cleaning for a week.” “Damn. We’re missing the perfect opportunity here.” Jimmy glared at Cody. “You should have been watching them.” “Me? Why me?” Cody huffed. “Because you’re good at it.” Jimmy snapped back. “Come on. Might as well find Rachel, maybe she knows something.” “You’re going to get yourselves killed skulking around trying to figure those two out.” Noah said. “Look they’re friends again, lets not do anything that would endanger our own health. If you’ve forgotten they can get quite mean when they’re fighting.” “Yeah Jimmy, unless I’m mistaken you’re the last one to get a frying pan up the side of the head because you got in between them.” Buck pointed out quickly. “Don’t remind me.” Jimmy said and glanced around knowing that neither Buck nor Noah seemed in the least bit curious about those two. “We have to find out though.” “Are you kidding me?” Buck shook his head. “Look she’s barely got over the Kid, give her some time before you start in on her.” “That ain’t the point.” “It is the point. You’ve got a thing for Lou and everyone who’s got eyes can see it.” “She don’t have a thing for me anymore than I have for her.” Jimmy ground out, knowing that he was at least half right. Lou had lost interest in him shortly after they’d rescued Amanda. Now she was a good friend but that was all, or at least she was when he wasn’t trying to poison her as she put it. “Besides you’re just as curious as I am. I can see it when you’re watching them.” “Oh for..” Noah shook his head. “I’m going to go talk to Rachel, she at least makes sense.” “Uh oh.” Lou whispered as they paused next to the door. “Why couldn’t Jimmy have just not noticed we were gone?” “Who knows.” Kid replied and frowned at the young woman by his side. “Jimmy’s got a thing for you?” “If he has he’s been keeping it hidden.” Lou replied and grinned at him. “Not jealous are you?” “Lou, someday.” Kid warned and grinned. “Look if you want to sneak off back to the bunkhouse go ahead I’ll catch up in a little while then after the boys have gone to bed we can go out to the barn to continue our game from the other day.” “Now there’s a plan.” Lou said ducking back into the shadows and pulling him along with her. “One for the road?” She whispered stealing a quick kiss before melting away into the night as Kid watched her go. Stepping into the church Kid walked up to where the other four were standing, he’d seen he concerned look on Rachel’s face and figured warning them was a good thing. “You guys better cool off, Rachel’s watching you.” “And where were you?” Jimmy demanded glaring at him. Raising an eyebrow Kid stared at him along with the other three. “What?” “Where were you?” Jimmy repeated slowly. “Like it’s your business.” Kid snapped. “Why this sudden bout of concern?” “I know something’s going on and I intend to find out what it is.” Jimmy said poking a finger in his friend’s chest. With a final smile he walked away, leaving Kid staring after him. “What was that all about?” Kid asked Buck and Noah as Cody looked at him funnily and scurried off to join Jimmy at the refreshment table. “They thought you and Lou had snuck out.” Noah explained. “She’s taken off and with their suspicious natures..” “Lou went back to the bunkhouse.” Kid said. “I saw her riding back that way when I came back in.” “See? I told ‘em that.” Buck said. “But this fits right in with trying to kidnap her, stalking you two, I wouldn’t be surprised to see one or both of them suddenly become your shadows.” “Don’t they understand that it’s dangerous to get Lou riled?” Kid asked with a grin and rubbed his jaw. “Or have they forgotten that she swings a mean left?” “I think they’ve forgotten.” Noah said. “I’m not sure why they’re going on about this. I mean if you two were back together we’d know it right?” “Right.” Kid agreed nodding quickly so that they wouldn’t see him struggling to hide a grin. “You guys would be the first people we told.” “See I told them that the other day, and they just wouldn’t listen to me.” Noah said. “In fact they’ve gotten completely out of control. Just be glad that you’ve got a long run coming up. It’ll at least get you and Lou out of here for a while and give us some peace. Just don’t bring each other back half dead. We don’t want that sorta thing here.” “I’ll keep it in mind.” Kid grinned. “When’s your next run Noah?” “Day after tomorrow.” Noah sighed. “If I don’t wind up hung for murder before then. They’re going to be up all night whispering to each other about this.” “Don’t worry about it. Rachel’s got a surprise for them.” Buck said noting Rachel frowning at the pair obviously oblivious to everyone and everything around them. “I don’t envy them the chores they get to do.” “None of us do.” Kid said with a grin. “Look guys I’m going to head home now before they notice that I’m still here. I can’t put up with their little questions and such tonight.” “Sure. We’ll cover for you.” Buck said innocently, keeping a straight face. “Just keep Lou away from the shower okay?” “Sure.” Kid grinned. “She’s still cussing that damn thing so it shouldn’t be too hard.” “What are you talking about?” Noah asked as Buck grinned while Kid made his way outside. “The other day Lou fell into the shower while getting Kid some soap.” Buck explained. “Apparently hit her head a bit to.” “She was alright though?” Noah asked concern drawing a frown out of him. “Oh yeah. She seemed fine.” Buck said with a shrug. “But then you know Lou, she’ll hide it if she’s not. Wouldn’t want to be taken off the runs.” “I swear that girl’s going to be the death of us all one of these days.” “You and me both.” Buck said with a grin into his punch. “You and me both.” Riding into the station Kid noted Lightening was in the corral and there was a light on in the bunkhouse and grinned. Lou must have decided to do some reading he decided as he put his mare up. Turning to walk inside he froze, Lou stood holding the barn door closed with a grin on her face. “How long till the others get here?” “An hour or so I think.” Kid smiled. “Why?” “Shall we continue our game then?” “Okay. Uh you’re going to have to shed a few things first though.” “So are you.” She pointed to his suit and grinned when he flushed. “Same amount of clothes on as before.” “You’re the boss.” Kid said making short work of his clothes. He draped them on his saddle, careful not to wrinkle them or drop them so the boys wouldn’t have a clue. “Who’s turn was it.” “I believe it was your turn.” Lou smiled saucily. “And I believe you were about to remove my shirt.” “Indeed I was.” Kid grinned as she moved closer to him, her clothes wrapped in a bundle and tossed onto a feed sack. “Your clothes are never going to be the same.” “Don’t matter.” Lou shrugged standing before him with a smile. “Buttons are here.” She pointed out dropping his gaze to her hand. “And they don’t undo themselves.” Laughing at her comment Kid moved forward, his fingers wrapping around the soft cotton covering her. “No they don’t.” He agreed and bent down to kiss her gently. “And I’m telling you that they’re up to something.” Jimmy was all but shouting as the others rode before him. “And not for that reason either.” He repeated for the umpteen time since they’d left the social. “Jimmy just give it up.” Buck pleaded tempted to say when he’d been thinking if it would get the other man to shut up. “If they are up to something, which I doubt then that’s their choice and their business.” “Not when they’re not talking to us about it.” Jimmy grumbled. “Jimmy you’re going to get yourself into hot water with them.” Noah pointed out. “Both you and Cody are starting to wear on everyone’s nerves around here with this unending plotting to find something out that doesn’t need to be found out. If they were doing something, they’d tell us.” He said pulling up in front of the barn and dismounting. Hearing the voices outside Lou glared at Kid as he grinned back at her and held her jacket just out of reach. “Kid they’re going to find us in here.” She hissed from between clenched teeth. “So we’d better have a good reason for being in here right?” He said pointedly. “We haven’t had a good fight in weeks. Maybe if we scare them a little they’ll give it up.” “Kid I don’t want to fight.” Lou groaned as she moved into his warmth, her body still sated and relaxed after making love with him. “I’ll just slip out the back door..” “How am I going to explain being in here then?’ “You were taking care of Katy?” “For an hour?” “Fine.” Lou shrugged and tossed her hands in the air. “What are we fighting about?” “Could always revert to old habits.” Kid suggested and grinned. “Kid.” Lou glared at him quickly. “This isn’t funny. Just give it to me.” “Here.” Kid said and handed it to her even as he moved away, keeping it just inches away from her grasp. “God dammit Kid I’m going to wring your neck.” Lou snapped angrily grabbing her jacket and pulling it from his grasp. “So you keep saying.” Kid snapped back and winked at her as he headed for the barn door. “And since you want the barn, I’ll take the bunkhouse.” “Oh no, you’re not getting of that easily you jerk.” Lou snapped following him, pulling on the barn door when he closed it in her face. Growling softly she glared at the offending piece of wood and wished it was Kid’s head. “I’d love to just..ooh.” “Hi Kid.” Jimmy croaked when Kid stepped out of the barn and closed the door. Cringing when he heard the string of curses coming from within he glanced at Kid who shrugged as Lou stepped outside. “Women. Don’t know, maybe she’s tired or something.” Kid said and headed for the bunkhouse. “Ha, you wouldn’t know what that meant if it hit you in the head.” Lou shouted after him pushing Sundancer’s head out of her way. “Get back here.” “Good night Lou.” “I’ll good night you one in a minute.” Lou said stomping after him. “If you think for one minute that I’m going to put up with that kind of blatant disregard for my thoughts you’re insane.” “Yes Lou.” Kid called over his shoulder with a shrug. “Whatever you say.” Stomping one foot in anger Lou headed for the bunkhouse and slammed the door before glaring at Kid who sat casually at the table watching her. “What was that all about?” “They think we’re fighting again Lou, that means we’ll get some breathing room.” Kid explained quickly as she stopped in front of him. Spreading his legs he pulled her to him, his thighs straddling hers. “Forgive me?” “I shouldn’t.” Lou said quickly. “I should just let you stay miserable and guilty for a while.” Lou grinned and stole a quick kiss “But instead I’ll forgive you. On one condition.” “Name it.” “You cover for me tomorrow so I can go swimming.” “Deal.” “Thanks.” Lou said and shucked her clothes to crawl into her bunk. Pulling the blanket over her shoulder she grinned at the wall as the door crept open and Noah stuck his head in. “Is it safe?” Noah asked Kid who sat at the table with a cup of coffee. “I think so. Lou just went to bed.” “Good then we’ll come in. You know Kid you’d be better off if you didn’t get her angry.” “She wasn’t that mad.” Kid grinned. “She’s been worse.” “She threatened to wring your neck.” “Like I said. She’s been worse.” Kid said rising and stretching his arms over his head. “I’m hitting the sack. Try not to stay up too late Jimmy, Cody.” “Nag, nag.” Cody muttered as Kid readied for bed. “Good night.” Kid said crawling into his bunk and pulling the blankets up over his shoulders to close his eyes. Flopping into his bunk Buck pulled his covers over him and smiled into the darkness, yes indeed he’d be keeping his mouth shut. Watching Jimmy and Cody jumping through hoops to find out what was so plainly in front of them was going to be fun. Casting a glance at Kid who lay curled under his sheet sound a sleep, Buck grinned to himself. That man was as obvious to read as the weather, if anyone had bothered to really look they’d have noticed the expression in Kid’s eyes but instead they were so busy trying to figure out the actions that they forgot to read the signs. Chapter Ten “Alright Kid, Lou since you’re headed out to Bellevue this week I don’t have to tell you to be careful.” Teaspoon said walking up to the two riders saddling their horses and preparing to ride out. “Course not Teaspoon.” Lou drawled refusing to glance at Kid. “Was there something else?” “Yeah, I figure you two deserve those days off so you don’t have to rush back or anything.” “Thanks Teaspoon.” Kid said. “Hopefully it’ll be a nice quiet run and won’t take long to get home.” “Just keep your eyes open and don’t kill each other.” Teaspoon warned as he walked away. “If you do I’ll hang both of you out to dry.” “Yes sir.” Lou said glancing at him doubtfully before swinging agilely into the saddle and glancing at Kid. “Well you ready for this?” “As ready as I’m ever going to be.” Kid said and followed Lou’s lead out of the yard with the mochilla draped across his saddle. “I sure hope you know what you’re doing.” Jimmy said standing next to Teaspoon. “They’ve been fighting off and on since the social.” “Can’t help that.” Teaspoon said with a glance. “Now then since you’re the only one here, you can help out at the jail.” “Awe Teaspoon!” Jimmy said following the older man back toward the jail. “Why me?” “I told ya.” “I heard you.” Jimmy muttered and closed his mouth; a glance over his shoulder had him frowning slightly. Those two might fool everyone else but he didn’t believe for a moment that they were at each other’s throats as bad as they’d been acting. He’d seen the quiet looks, the way they stood close to each other without actually touching. Hell if he had to make a guess he’d wager a month’s wages that they were back dancing again and it irked him He hated having one put over on him. Keeping the horses to a walk Lou glanced at Kid and smiled. “So what you planning on doing with your time off when we get home?” She asked and glanced at the trail before turning her attention back to him as he ducked under a branch. “Figured we could do something before we get home.” Kid replied. “You know take our time getting home.” “What are you up to?” “Well I found out about this restaurant that’s supposed to be real nice, the kinda place a man takes off his hat.” Kid started to explain. “Since I’m suppose to be a boy Kid, I’m better off in a place where I can leave mine on.” Lou pointed out. “That’s just it Lou, you wouldn’t have to pretend. You could get dressed up like a lady and we could do the town.” Kid said quickly gesturing with his canteen. “Nobody knows us there, so you could let your hair down.” “Kid, I didn’t bring anything to wear.” Lou protested. “You don’t have to wear anything.” Kid flushed as she smiled at his choice in words. “Lou I don’t care what you wear as long as I can be with you it don’t matter. Please this is something I’ve been wanting to do for a long time now.” “Alright.” Lou said and glanced at him with a perplexed expression. “Just where are we going?” “Davenport.” Kid smiled at her as she nodded and turned her attention back to her horse. The run hadn’t taken nearly as long as they’d figured and he was glad, it meant they could spend some quality time together and he wouldn’t have to worry about dodging Jimmy and Cody. Teaspoon stared at the letter in his hand before glancing at Jimmy. “Well it’s a good thing you’re a deputy already.” “Why?” Jimmy said without looking up from where he sat with a book at the other side of Teaspoon’s desk. “Cause we’re going to transport a prisoner.” “Great.” Jimmy smiled at his mentor. “Who and what are they in jail for?” “Some kid and he’s in jail for robbin’ a bank.” Teaspoon said. “I need the other three to cover the runs while Kid and Lou are gone, and since you’re here. You can go with me.” “I’m jumping for joy Teaspoon.” Jimmy said rising to his feet. “I really am.” “Just get the horses.” Teaspoon snapped as Jimmy sauntered out of the room, his guns hanging low on his hips. Staring at the flowers in his hand Kid sighed, he had more butterflies in his stomach today, this minute than he had the first time they’d made love after Lou had confessed to being raped. He wanted to do this right, wanted the night to be perfect for her. Like a weight in his pocket, the ring he’d splurged on held him in place. He’d given the other ring he’d bought back to the shop keeper in Blue Creek and gotten his money for it and held off buying another one when he figured he’d never be with the one woman he wanted to spend the rest of his life with. Now though, he couldn’t help but feel very lucky that he’d found her again. The new ring he had was a symbol of them starting over, the tangible link that would bind them together. Sure Lou couldn’t wear it for a while, probably not until after the wedding but at least she’d have it. Turning he bumped into a hard body and glanced up to apologize. “Pardon me.” “No problem. It’s always nice to see a smile like that.” The preacher said. “I guess I had everyone’s attention huh?” “Now don’t go getting embarrassed young man, it’s a pity that more folks don’t share your joy.” “I heard about your Marshall, guess folks got a reason to be sour.” Kid said. “Perhaps. Unfortunately I keep telling ‘em that something good can come from the bad, but they don’t believe it. I think they’ve lost their faith.” “I hear tell that Marshall Teaspoon Hunter’s coming to get your prisoner.” Kid said quickly as the preacher turned to walk away. “He’s a good man. He’ll make things right again.” “I’m sure he will.” The preacher said and turned to walk away leaving Kid standing staring after him. Damn what had he gotten them into again? Kid wondered. Every time he tried to do something special for Lou it went wrong, didn’t matter that it wasn’t him that had caused it the effect was the same. Hearing a slight sound from behind him he whirled to stare at Lou. A different Lou, she was dressed up with jewelry and her hair done, even had on gloves. Staring at her in amazement he swallowed hard, he was lucky to be with her. “What are you looking at?” Lou whispered seeing his shocked look and liking it. “You. You’re beautiful.” Kid squinted slightly. “I thought you said you didn’t have anything to wear?” “I snuck out this afternoon, went to some shops.” Lou admitted with a smile and watched him carefully. “Here.” Suddenly thrusting the flowers at her Kid smiled. “I got ‘em for you.” “Thank you.” Lou said with a smile, breathing in the faint aroma of the daisies. She’d once told Kid they were her favorite and was amazed that he had remembered considering how long ago she’d told him. Wrapping her hand around his arm she smiled at him, he was dressed handsomely in a black suit with his hat in his hand. “Shall we?” Kid asked as they started down the sidewalk for the moment he was content just to be with her. Sitting across from her at the dinner table Kid watched her enjoying herself, the look in her eyes as she glanced around enjoying the way people didn’t seem to mind her being a girl. “More coffee?” Kid asked noting Lou’s cup was empty. “Or would you prefer something else?” “Nothing for me.” Lou said with a grin. “How about a walk?” “Sounds great.” Kid said rising and moving to help her out of her chair. After paying for the meal he led her outside and they started strolling down the street arm in arm. Studying her Kid sighed, she was beautiful dressed the way she was. The soft lights that illuminated the street shadowed her figure, but didn’t hide the beauty that she possessed. Seeing her as she was, Kid felt lucky and yet the butterflies he’d been experiencing hadn’t stopped fluttering. Instead they’d picked up the pace and were making his stomach tense in knots, pausing Kid sucked in a quick breath as Lou smiled at him. “That was the best meal ever Kid.” Lou spoke softly, not really wanting to disturb the night air. “Mmhm.” Kid spoke absently, his mind on the growing weight in his pocket. Could he do it? Could he get her to say yes this time? “It’s sure pretty out tonight.” “Yeah you are.” Kid grinned. “It is.” “Kid whats on your mind?” Lou asked. “You might as well tell me, you’ve been thinking hard since we left Rock Creek.” “Have I been that obvious?” Kid asked slightly dazed. “More” Lou replied patiently as they came to a standstill on the sidewalk. “I got something to say.” Kid started uneasily as he glanced at his hat in his hand. “And it ain’t exactly the easiest thing for me.” “Okay.” Lou said studying him, he’d been patting one pocket most of the night and she had a feeling she knew what was coming. Not that she minded, she was ready for him this time. “Please Lou don’t go interrupting me.” “Okay.” “You know how I feel about you Lou.” “I don’t mind being reminded.” Lou spoke softly then shrugged apologetically. “Sorry.” “Sometimes when we’re together everything is so right, it’s so romantic. And other times, like earlier when you were dressed as a boy it’s hard. So I came up with this idea to make things easier, better even.” Lou nodded biting her tongue so she didn’t speak as her nerves started going. Please don’t let him be practicing. She thought. Please. Opening his mouth to ask her, Kid jerked around when the sound of gunfight burst around them. Glancing at the jail where the lone deputy was trying to hold off several men with rifles Kid grabbed for his gun before growling a curse and diving for cover. It only took him a few seconds to realize that the deputy was both outmanned and outgunned and probably terrified. Racing for cover he sent a silent prayer that Lou would stay out of the way as he dived across the street and stopped next to the deputy who was struggling not to let fear overwhelm him. “They want Dawkins.” The young man gasped firing the gun. “He’s one of them, and they robbed the bank this morning.” “Give me the gun.” Kid said as he took it and fired, hitting one man. Firing again he got a second and kept firing as they finally pulled out. Glancing down at the deputy he sighed a gaping hole in the man’s chest oozed blood out all over him. “Kid you okay?” Lou’s voice had him glancing over at her and offering a supporting arm. “Better than him.” He said gesturing toward the fallen man. “Is he dead?” The preacher asked joining them. “I’m afraid so.” Kid said and guided Lou inside away from the growing crowd as they stated to take their fallen deputy away. Sitting within the jail, Kid gave Lou his coat and waited for the sun to come up as his apprehension grew. He knew the odds of them getting out, and he didn’t feel that they were that good. Watching Lou he wondered if he could get her to leave, maybe someone would take her in. “Hey.” The young prisoner spoke for the first time all night making both of them turn to him. “What?” “What do you care what happens here?” The boy asked. “Just want to do what’s right.” Kid muttered. “That’s a tall order for someone who ain’t wearing a badge.” The boy replied. “Why don’t you shut up.” Kid snapped and settled back against the edge of the desk his gaze falling back onto Lou. “How long you figure it’ll take for Teaspoon to get here?” “A day, two at the most. Too long.” Kid replied quickly watching her. “What are we going to do?” Shrugging Kid glanced at the desk where the badge sat abandoned. He was going to have to think of something. “Hey Miss, ain’t this a little dangerous for a lady like you.” The boy drawled crawling onto the bars of the cell. “Shut up.” Kid snarled and took a step toward the cell. “Or I’ll do it for you.” “Ohh.” Shaking his hands at the young man staring at him hostilely Dawkins moved back and sat on the bunk. “You’re never going to get out of here.” “We need help.” Kid said watching Lou. “I wonder if anyone’s going to help us.” “I don’t know. As scared as this town is, you might have a harder time of finding someone to help than finding the robbers.” “I know. Look you should get out of here.” Kid said looking at Lou seriously. “Even if you can’t get out of town Lou, someone’ll take you in.” “I ain’t leaving you Kid.” Lou stared at him in shock. “Not a chance.” Nodding at the familiar stubborn streak in her Kid glanced back at the cell where Dawkins was reclining on his bunk with a smug grin on his face. “What did I get us into?” “Nothing.” Lou replied. “You didn’t rob the bank.” “Maybe.” Kid smiled at her as she smiled shakily back. “But the end result is the same.” Sitting at the desk Kid watched Lou sleeping soundly, she’d finally fallen asleep a couple of hours ago and he was glad that at least she’d get a chance to rest. He wasn’t so naive as not to realize that there was a good chance that he’d never make it out of this, hell he was trying to protect a jail with a six gun and no shells. He didn’t want Lou hurt and yet he knew her well enough to know that she wouldn’t back down from a fight. Just the thought that something could happen to her made his teeth ache, was he being unrealistic here? Asking her to marry him was what he wanted but what about what she needed? Did she need to be tied to a man who had a bad habit of getting them into tight spots? He knew he couldn’t live with himself if anything happened to her, but how could he make her see that only wanted her to be happy and safe? Sighing he leaned back in the chair and stared at the wall, how did he convince her that he didn’t want her to get hurt without hurting her feelings. Seeing her moving around he rose, and poured her a cup of coffee before donning his hat. “Just going to see what I can find out.” He said by way of explanation as he slipped out the door and started down the street, fully aware of someone’s eyes upon him at all times. Slipping into an alleyway he waited impatiently for the man following him to pass him before he snagged him, dragging him roughly into the space and holding him against the wall. “Uh.” Seeing the preacher Kid released him much to the older man’s relief. “You’re smart to keep on your guard. They’re watching.” “We can’t do this alone.” Kid admitted. “We need help.” “No ones going to help you around here. They’re all too scared.” “No one?” “Please, I can’t.” The preacher looked pale as the young man stared at him. He didn’t want to have anything to do with the trouble that was circling the town but knew he couldn’t escape it. “Look you could just ride out toward Rock Creek, let Marshall Hunter know he’s in for a lot worse trouble then he’s reckoning.” Kid pleaded. “No. No I couldn’t.” “I guess you were right.” Kid said, the muscles in his jaw clenching. “Faith is in short supply.” “Alright.” Nodding his head quickly the preacher agreed. “I’ll try.” “Thanks.” Kid smiled and headed for the jail, his guts twisted as he tried to think of someway of keeping both the prisoner and keeping Lou safe. “Well?” “Asking for help around here is like sending a bucket down a dry well.” Kid said tossing his hat on the desk. “Ain’t nothing for it.” “Hope you two are praying. Cause the Lord’s the only one gonna get you out of this.” Dawkins called with a grin. Shaking his head Kid smiled slightly at Lou, “He don’t know how right he is.” Chapter Eleven Staring at the closed jail door Lou wondered just what the Kid was thinking, he’d gotten to be really quiet in the time since this whole mess had started and she feared he was rethinking things again. She didn’t know how to reach him, to make him understand that she could face this with him and they’d survive. Sure they’d faced easier things, and harder things at that but they’d always managed to come out on top. Feeling reckless she sighed, she even wished that they were at home right now with Jimmy and Cody’s plotting and planning to deal with. This was hard, they both knew the risks, and both of them knew just what could be done about those risks. With any luck they could survive this and Kid would learn to trust her a little more, believe she could take care of herself a little easier. “Well?” Dawkins said standing next to her as they waited for the Kid to show up. Earlier Kid had decided that the only way to get out of this was to make a break for it, maybe if they stayed on the run they’d be able to keep one step ahead of the rest of the gang until Teaspoon arrived. “Remember what I told you.” Lou said spotting Kid and the wagon coming barreling down the street. “And I’m a better shot than you think.” “I’ll remember.” Dawkins said staring at her. She wasn’t anything like any of the girls he’d ever met before. She loved the man she was with for one, and for two while she might be scared, she wasn’t going to back down. Briefly he wondered just what that would feel like to be loved to that point? He wished he’d taken the time to find a girl like her for himself instead of joinin’ a gang that didn’t really want him. “Come on.” Lou said half pulling, half shoving him out the door toward the horses. Pushing him onto his horse while a flurry of bullets rained down on them was easier said than done but the minute he was in the saddle she stuck a boot in the stirrup of Lightening’s saddle and pulled herself upwards even as they galloped off. Riding for a while Lou was glad of the moonlight, it helped them to see where they were going despite the fact that Dawkin’s was probably familiar with the area. She wondered how he was feeling, knowing that those men had been trying to kill him. Pulling up under a stand of trees Kid dismounted and started to strip the gear off Katy without glancing at Dawkins. “Hey a little help here.” Dawkins said holding his hands up to show the handcuffs that he still wore. Ignoring him Kid finished unsaddling his mount and glanced at Lou. She looked unflappable, composed and yet tired. Damning himself for ten kinds of a fool Kid sighed softly and glanced at Dawkins who was complaining about something. “Why should I help you?” Kid asked softly, lethally. “What do you mean?” “You probably know this area like the back of your hand and yet you ain’t lifted a finger to help us.” Kid started. “Why should I?” “Cause those men were shooting at you, not us.” Kid replied and smiled coldly. “Nothing to say?” “I think your fella’s been missing a little too much sleep.” Dawkins protested shakily, knowing full well that Kid was right. They were out for him, not the two who’d taken on his care. “No he ain’t. You know he’s right.” Lou said stripping her horse down and waiting for Dawkins to finish his complaints before jerking him over to a spot under a tree and sitting him down. It only took minutes for Kid to build a fire and he settled in front of it to stare at the flames. Smiling up at Lou as she moved to sit next to him he turned his attention back to the flames although he was glad to feel her warmth pressed up against him. “This ain’t nothing like I planned.” Kid said. “Parts of it was nice.” Lou whispered. “Better than nice, the walking, the dinner.” Smiling Kid nodded she was right, parts of this whole mess were indeed the highlight of his life but the rest, putting her in danger? They were the worst. “You were going to ask me something.” Lou prompted, praying that he hadn’t changed his mind about it by now. “Ain’t sure I should.” Kid muttered. “Why?” Lou asked feeling a prick of fear and anger at his words. “I just keep screwing things up.” Kid admitted. “I keep kicking myself for putting you in danger. I’ve been thinking about it Lou, what if something happens? If you get hurt or killed it’ll be my fault cause I just had to do the right thing.” “See that’s your problem Kid.” Lou said moving away from him. “You think too much.” Rising she stalked out of the flames glow, anger in every line of her body. “Not enough.” Kid muttered watching her go, his heart breaking at the thought that he’d hurt her. Watching them Dawkins frowned, it was hard to decifer who was madder, her or him. He did know one thing that there was a lot of love between them and a little fear and guilt. Could the Kid be worrying about what would happen to her if he was killed? Being completely unfamiliar with relationships Dawkins sighed, Lou was fiesty and brave and he envied Kid for the closeness that they shared. Sitting there he watched the pair as they settled in for the night, a stiffness that lay between them making him uncomfortable as he realized he was the cause of it. Deciding suddenly to help any way he could he closed his eyes and drifted off to sleep, intent on being honest with them come morning. Dawn saw Kid pouring left over coffee on the coals and saddling Katy. When he was finished he walked over to where Lou was saddling her horse and glanced at his feet. “I’m sorry about last night.” “You got a right to change..” “That ain’t it.” Kid said. “Things didn’t come out like I wanted ‘em to.” “Sounded like you knew what you were saying to me Kid.” Lou snapped and turned away from him only to whirl back around when he took her arm. “Lou I love you.” “Yeah, you sure got a funny way of showing it.” Lou said jerking her arm free and stalking off only to stop when Dawkins stepped into her path. “You’re right I do know this territory.” Dawkins admitted after a tense pause. “Any particular reason I should believe you now?” Kid asked glancing between him and Lou who shook her head and shrugged. “I do. Lets get going.” Silently cursing himself Kid walked over and swung up into the saddle to fall into place behind them. Watching the young man interact with Lou Kid wondered just how he could prove that he’d never meant to hurt her. Sure he’d been rethinking his stance on proposing but that didn’t mean he didn’t love her. Hell if he loved her anymore he’d be in even worse shape than he already was. Hoping that Lou would forgive him in time Kid sighed, maybe he had to rethink this whole thing. Maybe he wasn’t looking at it from Lou’s point of view. Sure he knew he could trust her to back him up, hell she’d done it countless times before now, maybe she thought he didn’t trust her. Maybe he had to prove that he did trust her, that he loved her the way she was. Sure his every instinct, every teaching told him to protect her no matter what but she’d done a helluva job on more than one occasion protecting him. Perhaps he should just give her the benefit of the doubt and let her decide what she wanted. Hearing gunshots he whirled Katy and stared at the oncoming riders. There were five or six of them and they were all coming fast. Dismounting quickly he grabbed for the cuff keys out of his pocket and took a step in Dawkins’ direction. “Ride.” He growled as he hurriedly reached for the cuffs. “What are you doing?” “Ride.” Kid said glancing at Lou. “I’ll hold ‘em off.” “What?” No matter what he had to prove that he trusted her, that he loved her. If nothing else he needed her to know he’d die for her. “I said ride.”Slapping Lightening on the rump he turned to the prisoner. Pulling on Dawkins as soon as the cuff’s were unlocked he glared at the young man. “You stay with her, don’t let her turn back. You hear me?” Dawkins nodded and stared at him as he glanced at Lou before galloping off. Every gunshot striking him like a willow switch. “Kid.” Hearing Lou’s cry he glanced back as he caught her reins and watched as Kid fell, red blossoming out along his white shirt. “Come on. We’ve got to go.” Dawkins said and pulled Lightening along behind him. Pushing hard they rode up a back trail he was familiar with and pulled up in a stand of trees. Seeing Lou favoring one arm he pulled out his bandana and helped her sit down. “Hold still so I can tie this off.” He grunted as she started to wiggle, making to get up. “Leave me alone.” Lou snapped trying to get to her feet. “Kid’s out there and I gotta find him.” “They’ll kill you.” “I don’t care.” Lou said hurrying for her horse with Dawkins right on her heels. “Listen to me.” “No.” Lou said slamming her elbow into his chest and cringing when the pain streaked up her arm into her shoulder. “It’s your fault he got shot. You’ve been about as much help to us as you were to that gang.” “Lou listen to me. If Kid’s still alive they’ll be holding him at the hideout. I can take you there.” “What would they want with him?” “Maybe figure you’ll come after him and bring me along.” Dawkins said pulling her to her feet. “Come on we ain’t got much choice.” “Why are you doing this? They want to kill you.” “I got my reasons.” Staring at him Lou nodded once and turned away, whatever his reasons were his own just as her reasons were hers. Mounting up she suppressed a shudder, if Kid was dead it was her fault. She was the one that told him he had to prove he loved her, if she hadn’t gotten carried away then this wouldn’t have happened. Sitting tied up to a tree Kid shifted as the pain in his arm intensified. He knew Lou had gotten away and he was glad about that. With any luck she’d make it back to where Teaspoon was and then they could come get him. Feeling the pain in his arm, he prayed hard that she was safe even as he cursed himself for not asking her to marry him. Sure there were risks, but he’d rather be with her for one day, one month, than without her for one hour. If he got out of this he was going to ask her to marry him no matter what and he was going to let her choose. He should know by now not to take things for granted, he needed Lou in his life and he hoped she needed him as much if not more than either of them could admit to. He knew that Lou would probably want a long engagement, hell he didn’t blame her she was bound and determined to prove herself, despite having already done it countless times to those around her. While he wasn’t keen on a long engagement he supposed giving her a few months was only fair. Leaning his head back against the tree he exhaled sharply, god when he saw her he was going to kiss her silly no matter who was watching or what anyone said. He was hers for however long she wanted him and he didn’t care anymore who knew it. “What the hells goin’ on here?” Teaspoon said coming out of the empty jail and walking up to Jimmy. “Don’t know. Don’t seem like anyone’s too anxious to talk about it neither.” “I will.” The voice was firm and filled with conviction causing both of them to look toward the coming man. He was older, probably in his sixties with a white beard and a very obvious black eye, he wore the habit of a preacher and carried a bible in one hand. “You saw what happened?” Jimmy asked quickly. “They all did. They’ve lost their faith and with it their courage. Finding your friends might go along way in restoring both.” Glancing sharply at Teaspoon Jimmy slowly nodded, the man could only mean Kid and Lou. Shaking his head Jimmy wondered just how those two had gotten caught up in the middle of this. “Well any idea where they’re at?” Teaspoon asked. “Indeed I do.” The preacher smiled. “I happened to overhear the men talking about a camp about five miles due west of here, in a wash. I’m sure you won’t have a problem finding it.” “Thanks. Teaspoon said. “Any idea where exactly our friends might be?” “They might be there by now.” The preacher said. “I don’t know what else to tell you.” “Thank you.” Jimmy turned to his horse and glanced sharply at Teaspoon. “I don’t know who to pity, the outlaws or Kid and Lou.” “Jimmy.” “It’s the truth. You know Kid, he’s going to go all protective and worrisome on Lou and she’ll get madder than hell and they’ll have another fight on their hands.” “Maybe they’ll wait until this is all over.” “Maybe.” Swinging into the saddle Jimmy gathered his reins. “We’ll never know until we find ‘em though.” “Lets go.” Seeing movement on the hill Kid groaned and squinted against the sun, please let that be Teaspoon or Jimmy. He prayed as the pain in his arm got steadily worse. “I could use a little help here.” Hearing something behind him he turned his head and smiled slightly when he saw a familiar face. “Lou.” Relishing the feel of her hand on his face Kid breathed a sigh of relief. “How’d you find me?” “Dawkin’s helped.” Lou said worrying the knot in the rope. “You okay?” “I’m fine.” Kid said as he ducked as another round of bullets tore through the air. “Where’s the other one?” Dawkins’ familiar voice had both of them glancing around, hoping to spot the man in question. Watching in horror as Dawkins shoved Lou to the ground and fell himself as gunfire thundered through the wash Kid closed his eyes and moved uneasily. “Lou!” Kid called as she climbed to her feet. “You okay?” “I’m okay.” Lou said as she went back to work on the rope as two familiar figures emerged from the brush. “You okay.” “I am now.” Kid said glancing at where Dawkins lay on the ground. “Best see about him.” Kid whispered as she moved away from him to roll the young man over. Tugging at the rope he didn’t hear what Jimmy hollered, or what Dawkins’ was saying all he could hear was a roaring in his head as he realized that he’d almost lost Lou forever. Rising to his feet shakily he walked over to where Lou was kneeling and sank to his knees next to her, his arms automatically going around her as she buried her face in his chest. “You guys okay?” Jimmy repeated as Kid struggled to his feet and nodded as he struggled to get to Lou’s side. Hours later Teaspoon and Jimmy stood by the cemetery gates watching Kid and Lou standing over an open grave with the preacher. Both Kid and Lou had bandages on their arm and Kid looked only slightly less tired now than he did this morning. “How long you figure before we head home?” Jimmy asked softly. “Probably leave right after they’re finished.” Teaspoon replied as the preacher started walking toward them with Kid by his side. “I wanted to thank you for helping Marshall Hunter find us.” Kid spoke softly as he held his hat in his hand. “Just a matter of luck. Me overhearing where they were camped.” was the reply. “Those two, they’re good men. Was he?” “He died for us.” Lou spoke quickly glancing at Kid and smiling slightly. “He died saving my life.” “Then you’re truly blessed.” With a final smile the preacher moved off leaving Kid and Lou alone in the middle of the cemetery. “He’s right ya know.” Lou stated moving to face Kid. “You didn’t know that all along?” Kid asked with a soft smile. “Maybe I did. Maybe I took it for granted.” Fidgeting Lou glanced at her hands before raising her gaze to his. “Promise me something Kid. Promise never ride on without me again. If there’s any trouble, I wanna face it with you.” Studying her Kid smiled. “I promise.” Kid paused and glanced around, this wasn’t the place he thought then shrugged it aside, maybe it was. “As long as you promise not to interrupt me.” “For how long?” “Just till I say what I gotta say.” “This ain’t one of your practice speeches is it?” Lou asked softly, nervously as he took her hand then grinned sheepishly when he looked at her. “Sorry.” She smiled and glanced around as a hundred butterflies took flight in her stomach and happiness bubbled along her veins. Finally, what she’d been waiting for all this time, and she wasn’t going to interrupt him at all. “Louise McCloud will....you....marry...” Kid started only to gasp when she knelt before him kissing him before he could get the rest of the question out. Nodding quickly before he could change his mind again, Lou smiled against his lips. “Yes.” Frowning slightly Jimmy watched them closely and swallowed as Kid got down on one knee, glancing sharply at Teaspoon’s softly uttered ‘uh oh.’ he swore under his breath. He didn’t have to be a genius to see that Kid was proposing again. When Lou knelt before him and kissed the Kid like there was no tomorrow he rolled his eyes for a second and grinned at Teaspoon who chuckled. “Guess that means yes.” Teaspoon said with a grin. “Guess so.” Jimmy replied watching as Kid rose smoothly with Lou pressed against him kissing like there was nobody around. Damn it he’d been right, they were up to something and now he had the proof. Only problem was how could he tell everyone else about? Following Kid and Lou back to the hotel he waited patiently with Teaspoon while Lou went in to change out of her dress and back into her riding clothes the same as Kid. Watching Katy and Lightening Jimmy didn’t see Teaspoon glance at him, or the slight frown that marred the old man’s face as he tried to come up with some way of getting an explanation out of those two still in the hotel. ‘What’s the matter Jimmy?” Teaspoon asked watching Jimmy who looked upset over something. “Them two. They been holding out on us.” Jimmy replied waving one hand at the hotel. “You’d think they wanted to keep things a secret.” “Now Jimmy maybe they’ve just been taking their time, not rushing into anything.” “Still could’ve talked to somebody.” Jimmy muttered as the door opened and the pair in question came out with their gear. “You two ready?” “As we’re ever going to be.” Lou said and climbed into the saddle, keeping one eye on Kid who was a little slower in getting in the saddle. “You okay Kid?” Fine.” Kid grinned at her and turned Katy. “Lets go home.” “Sounds like a plan.” Teaspoon said turning his mount toward Rock Creek and nudging him into a lope followed by the other four. Chapter Twelve Rachel smiled as she saw the four riders coming toward them. “Riders coming!” She called to the other boys behind her and watched as Cody, Noah, and Buck appeared out of the barn almost instantly to join her in the yard. “Looks like they’re in one piece.” Buck commented. “Wonder where the prisoner is?” “I don’t know.” Rachel shrugged. “Looks like Kid’s been hurt.” She said as they rode into the yard and dismounted, Kid’s arm still in a sling. “And Jimmy don’t look like his usual cheerful self.” Cody pointed out the black look on Jimmy’s face. “Hey Jimmy how’d it go?” “Great.” Jimmy muttered throwing Kid and Lou a dark, angry look and moving to unsaddle his horse. “Just great.” “Where’s the prisoner?” Noah asked. “He was killed.” Lou said softly with a glance at Kid before taking her saddle into the barn. “You want a hand with that Kid?” Buck asked seeing that Kid didn’t have a very easy time with his saddle. “Sure just pull it down, I’ll carrying it inside.” Kid said grimacing at the tearing in his shoulder. With a faint smile at Buck he glanced at Jimmy, a silent brooding Jimmy who’d refused to speak to either him or Lou the entire way home. With a slight shrug he turned away from his best friend, Jimmy’d talk when he was ready and not before. “How were things here?” “Quiet.” Rachel said following everyone into the barn noting the Kid led both his and Lou’s horse at the same time. “I imagine you boys want something to eat right away?” “Not for me.” Jimmy said quickly. “I’ve got stuff to do.” “Jimmy.” Teaspoon warned as the other man darted off ignoring everyone but Cody who looked bewildered. “What is with him?” Noah asked watching Jimmy’s fast retreat. “Don’t know.” Kid said. “Been like that since we left Davenport.” “Well there’s food on the table if you want to wash up quickly and come inside.” Rachel said with a smile at everyone. “Got a letter for you Teaspoon.” She said as he started out of the barn leaving Kid, Buck, Noah, and Lou standing in the aisle way looking at the pair of them. “Looks like you got hit.” Noah said pointing to Kid’s arm. “It’s not bad.” Kid shrugged it aside. “Only hurts when I move it.” “Then you shouldn’t be moving it.” Lou said quickly as she headed for the brush bucket she kept for her horse. “Doc said it would take a while to heal.” “How’s your arm?” Kid asked with a slight frown. “Fine. It’s only a scratch.” “Well we’ll see you to inside.” Noah said glancing at Buck before they made a fast retreat out of the barn, closing the door behind them for good measure. Walking across the yard they stopped where Jimmy and Cody were sitting. “You shouldn’t have done that.” Jimmy said wisely. “Should’ve just left the doors open.” “I don’t want to listen to another argument.” Noah explained. “Come on you can grab a bite to eat before you and Cody go into town.” “Who said we were going into town?” Cody asked hurriedly rising at the mention of food. “We may be a lot of things Cody, but we’re not that dumb.” Buck said with a grin. “Come on, we’ll feed you pair before you head off to find some recreation.” Shaking his head Jimmy glanced once at the barn the sighed and followed everyone inside. He hadn’t even gotten to tell Cody that they were right, that Kid and Lou were back together this time for good before Buck and Noah interrupted. “You sure you’re okay Kid?” Lou asked watching him move slightly, the brush strokes over the mare not as vigorous as they usually were. “I’m just tired Lou.” Kid replied with a slight grin. “Feel like I could sleep a week.” “We sorta missed out on sleep the past few nights huh?” “Sleep, meals. Nice comfortable evenings.” Kid smiled. “Granted parts of this little trip were fun but some of it was just plain bad.” “Getting shot is likely to turn anyone sour.” Lou pointed out dropping her brushes back into the bucket and leaning against the wall. She knew better than to ask Kid if he wanted help, he’d bite her head off. “Or wake ‘em up.” Kid paused and glanced at her. “I am sorry about how what I was saying came out the other night. It wasn’t what I meant at all.” “I know.” Lou nodded slightly. “You weren’t thinking clearly when you said it for one.” She moved closer to him. “And two I think you needed to see you could trust me.” “It had nothing to do with trusting you.” Kid protested. “It had to do with losing you. I was scared to death that you were going to get hurt and blaming myself for getting us into that situation. I didn’t want you to get hurt, or to lose you..” “Kid I’m fine, you’re a little battered but you’re fine. As long as you keep your promise, we’ll be okay.” Lou whispered reminding him of his promise before he’d proposed. “I will you know.” Kid leaned against her softly. “I’m never going to break it.” “Sure you will but that’s okay. I know you’ll be back.” Lou laughed and hugged him. “Now come on, I’m hungry and tired. Feel like sleeping a week would be easy.” “Then I guess I better feed you huh?”Kid said. “Before you go scrambling up into that bunk of yours and falling asleep.” Laughing at his words Lou fell into step with him and headed for the bunkhouse. Reaching for the door they stepped back when it opened and a glaring Jimmy stepped out, “Hey Jimmy.” Lou smiled at him slightly only to glance at Kid when he grunted a reply, stepped past them and headed up the street with Cody. “What was that all about?” “You’ve got me.” Kid said watching the pair retreat. “Seems like they’re in a bad mood lately.” “Seems like.” Lou said preceding Kid inside and sitting at the table. “Something Jimmy hasn’t cooked.” She breathed picking up her fork and looking at the stew in front of her. “Might actually be edible.” “Now Lou, that boy’s got plenty on his mind.” Teaspoon started only to stop when he noticed the way both Kid and Lou were trying to hide their yawns. “Finish up and hit your bunks. You ain’t gonna be of any use to anyone for a while” “Yes sir.” Kid said quickly finishing his helping and rising to shuck his boots and coat. Sitting on the bunk he rolled his shoulders and lay down, one arm going up to cover his eyes even as he felt the dip of Lou stepping next to him. From a distance he heard the thump, thump of her boots hitting the floor then darkness swept in and he fell into a deep sleep. Grateful for the chance to at least rest. “What is going on?” Rachel asked Teaspoon as the other two boys disappeared. “Jimmy’s acting awfully sour.” “He doesn’t like having a fast one pulled on him.” Teaspoon explained with a grin. “You know how he’s been moping around, trying to figure out ways and means to discover if Kid and Lou were back together?” “Yeah. Frankly I’m not sure he’s that far off but still it’s up to them to tell us.” “Well you’re right. He weren’t far off. Kid proposed in Davenport.” “What?” Rachel was shocked, she had no idea that things were progressing that quickly. “Are you sure?” “Jimmy and I witnessed it.” Teaspoon said. “And Lou said yes.” “I’m beginning to see what the problem is.” “Jimmy wants to tell everyone he was right, but at the same time he don’t want to ruin the surprise of finding out those two are back together again.” Teaspoon said with a grin. “Course I don’t mind spoilin’ the surprise, but then I’m old and cantankerous.” “Teaspoon Hunter, go on with you and read your mail.” Rachel laughed at him as she swiped a towel at him before picking up the dishes. Shadows were creeping across the ground when Noah glanced at Buck and they called it a night. “Sure seems awful quiet around here without Lou and Kid awake and bickering.” Noah said as he washed some of the sweat and dirt off his arms and chest before moving to wash his face. “I know. Checked in on ‘em earlier this afternoon and they were sleeping up a storm, almost like they’re trying to catch up on sleep.” Buck said quietly, he felt concern for the way both of them had come back bloody and exhausted. “Probably were.” Noah said catching sight of Jimmy and Cody coming toward them. Jimmy looked only slightly less sour than he had when they’d ridden in this morning. “See Jimmy’s mood ain’t brightened.” “He’s got a burr under his saddle for sure.” Buck said. “God only knows why though. Come on, I’m sure Rachel’s got dinner ready for us by now.” “Good. I’m starved. Did the work of three men today, need something to replenish the energy.” With a laugh they headed for the bunkhouse meeting up with Jimmy and Cody on the porch. “You two have fun today?” “If you call sitting around doing nothing fun, then yeah.” Jimmy snarled. “Had loads of it.” “Well it’s nice to see you so cheerful.” Noah said with a teasing grin. “Means this evening’s dinner’ll be very, very pleasant.” “I got a right to be sour if I want.” Jimmy snapped opening the door and automatically glancing at the set of bunks across from the door. Both Kid and Lou still slept peacefully, a blanket now covering Lou’s small frame as she lay on her stomach sleeping. Kid had rolled over onto his side, his bad arm laying on the mattress beneath him as he slept, a blanket tangled around his legs. Good let ‘em sleep then he wouldn’t have to break their heads open for keeping a secret. Sitting down to dinner the boys quickly cleaned their plates glancing over at where Kid and Lou slept soundly, Kid groaning slightly when he rolled over in his sleep, landing on his wound. “Hey Teaspoon how’d Kid and Lou get shot?” Buck asked. “I thought they were on a run.” “They were.” Teaspoon said with a shrug. “They’d stopped in Davenport overnight and somehow they got involved. Probably, Kid being Kid he stepped in to help after the deputy was killed. When we found ‘em they were in the middle of a gunfight with the outlaws and were wounded.” Teaspoon said with a slight grin. “I think Kid’s very glad Lou was along though.” “Why?” “Cause he can’t fight tied to a tree.” Teaspoon grinned at the chuckle going around the table then glanced at Jimmy who hadn’t even cracked a grin. “I doubt it. Probably cursing the fact that she was in the middle of it like usual.” “Jimmy try to leave your bad mood outside please.” Rachel said quietly, sternly. “Yes mother.” Jimmy said falling silent as Teaspoon began reciting the trip to Davenport. He cringed when the older man started talking about the funeral of the prisoner and breathed a sigh of relief when he didn’t mention Kid and Lou’s engagement. He wanted to be the one that ruined that little surprise. “Since you’ve been off tagging along after me Jimmy, you might as well take tomorrow off, then you can have the Forrester run.” “What about Kid and Lou?” Buck asked. “Both of ‘em have runs coming up in the next day or so.” “If they’re awake we’ll see. I doubt if they’ll take the run day after tomorrow. Besides that Kid’s arm ain’t in the best of shape, kinda want him around here till it heals.” Teaspoon replied noting the man in question move again in his sleep. He was obviously in pain, but it didn’t seem to be enough to wake him up completely. “Well Buck should we flip a coin?” Noah said with a half-ass grin. “Both runs are headed south right?” Buck asked. “Yeah.” “I’ll take Johnson Creek.” “I like Johnson Creek.” Noah pointed out. “I know but you’d spend an extra day there if you can, and since we’re short two people this way you can get back here sooner.” “You’re evil you know that don’t you?” Noah laughed at Buck then glanced at Jimmy who rose and headed for his bunk, muttering under his breath. “What is your problem?” Noah demanded. “Wait and see.” Jimmy replied crawling into his bunk and pulling his hat down over his face. “Wait and see.” “Talk sense.” Buck started only to stop when Teaspoon raised a hand. “He’s being sour for no reason.” “Don’t matter boys let him be.” “Yes sir.” Buck muttered with a final glance at Jimmy. Turning back to the table they rearranged the runs for a couple of weeks, time enough to give Kid’s arm a chance to heal and let Lou rest up. She’d probably be back on the runs before too long anyway, it would be Kid they would have to watch. Sitting on his bunk, Kid rubbed his hands over his face and glanced around. Sunlight lay on everything in the room, and the sounds of wagons and people moving around outside told him it was probably late afternoon. Rising he stretched, grimacing when the wound on his arm pulled. Glancing behind him he smiled, Lou was still sleeping from the look of it and he turned to head outside. “How long’ve you been awake?”Lou’s sleepy voice had him turning to smile at her. “Just woke up.” “Any idea what time it is?” “Late afternoon I think.” Kid replied as she sat up, swinging her legs over the edge of her bunk and sitting hunched over. “I hate sleeping in my clothes.” Lou muttered past a slight yawn. “How’d you sleep?” “So so. I’m refreshed but my arm kept hurting me every time I moved last night.” “Doc said you’d have to keep it steady for a while.” “I thought sleeping was keeping it steady.” Kid said as she moved to get down. Reaching up, he grabbed her with his good arm and lifted, setting her on her feet in front of him. “Guess we’re sorta late for whatever they were doing today.” “They could’ve woken us up.” “Yeah, they could’ve.” Kid agreed walking to the stove and lifting the coffee pot. “Coffee?” He asked finding a full pot. “Sure. Love some.” Moving to the table Lou sat down with two cups and leaned on the tabletop. “Man am I ever tired. I still feel like I could sleep for a few more hours.” “Probably could’ve if I hadn’t woken you up.” Kid said pouring to cups of coffee and sitting down next to her, pulling her back against him. “I guess we need to tell the boys sometime today or tomorrow.” “You know they’re going to want to know why we didn’t bother to tell ‘em we were back together.” Lou pointed out. “They’re family, they’ll understand after we explain things to them.” Kid said tracing a familiar pattern on her arm through her shirt with his chin resting on her head as she leaned against him. “Besides the only one who’s going to be a problem is Jimmy!” “He’s going to gloat for weeks!” “Not necessarily.” Kid smiled and shifted. “I think he just wants to steal the show, point out to everyone that he was right and that they should’ve listened to him.” “I hope you’re right.” Lou sighed snuggling back against him. “You know what’s so nice about telling ‘em?” “What?” “I can kiss you anytime I want to and they won’t say a thing.” Kid laughed and nodded.” That’s one thing.” “How long do you figure before they get back?” “A few minutes, a couple of hours.” Kid shrugged jostling her head slightly. “It’s hard to say.” “You think we’ve got time enough to steal a couple kisses?” “We’ll make the time.” Kid said bending his head to kiss her gently, even as she shifted, turning on the bench and wrapping her arms around his neck to deepen the kiss. “I sure hope they’re awake.” Noah said tromping back to the bunkhouse with Buck and Cody. “Jimmy’s due back in today and he’s going to be hell to live with..” “Rider coming.” Cody pointed out and squinted into the sun. “Looks like Jimmy.” “Hey Jimmy. Glad to see you made it back in one piece.” “They still sleeping?” Jimmy asked concerned for his friends. “Yeah. Should be waking up soon Rachel figures.” Buck said as Jimmy dismounted and tethered his horse up to join them on the walk to the bunkhouse. “I’ve got to grab something to eat before I do anything. Damn fool horse rolled, taking my supplies with it.” “Then you’re in luck. Rachel’s been in a good mood the last two days so her cooking’s even better than usual.” Cody declared with a grin as he lifted the handle of the door and swung it open. “Oops.” Stepping back he quickly closed the doors and frowned at the others. “What are you doing?” Jimmy demanded reaching past him to open the door. “I wouldn’t do that..” Cody trailed off as Jimmy stepped into the room and stopped. Hearing Cody’s voice Kid pulled away from Lou slightly and glanced at her. “What was that?” “I think Cody came in.” Lou replied from where she sat in his lap. “You think I should move?” “Do you want to?” Kid asked with a grin at her look. “Perhaps, it’ll save questions. “Aha!” Jimmy crossed his arms over his chest. “I knew it.” “Jimmy what are you talking about?” Kid asked patiently. “I knew you were back together.” “They’re sitting at the same table.” Noah said. “How does that make ‘em back..” “They were kissing.” Cody muttered under his breath a flush climbing his face as Kid and Lou looked at him. “Well you were.” “So what?” Buck glanced between them and shrugged. “Good for you both. Try to stay that way though, causes less stress and pain on the rest of us.” “Oh they will.” Jimmy smiled sweetly. “Won’t you?” “Jimmy I don’t understand you.” Kid started. “I was there remember.” “I remember.” Kid replied. “Just don’t have a clue what you’re talking about. Did you lose your mind or something? This ain’t like you in the least.” “Yeah Jimmy. Lets leave ‘em be for now.” Noah said. “Oh no, they’ve been back together for ages.” Jimmy said. “I tried to tell everyone that and you wouldn’t listen to me. Now look what happens.” “What happened?” Buck asked concerned that something had happened. “THEY’RE GETTING MARRIED.” Jimmy shouted. “Don’t you pay any attention around here?” Glancing at each other Kid and Lou shrugged. “It ain’t like it’s a big secret Jimmy.” “Don’t even think I’m going to forgive and forget. You both owe us a big, detailed explanation.” “Of what?” Lou spoke slowly watching her friend carefully. He must have lost his mind, there was no other way to explain the sudden change in him. “Well a wedding is..” “No why you didn’t bother to tell us that you were back together.” Cody spoke up. “Oh that.” Kid said and shifted as everyone glanced back at them with varying degrees of interest on their faces. “Well we just started talking and figured if we didn’t tell anyone than we wouldn’t have to listen to advice..” “We gave you good advice.” Cody said. “Cody I listened to you and got blisters on my hands for a week!” Kid pointed out quickly. “I listened to everyone of you about what you’d say or do and look where it got me! I acted like a complete jerk and lost Lou. I didn’t want a repeat of that.” “Oh so hiding from us was the answer?” Noah asked softly, his tone even although he was curious as to what their explanation would be. “We didn’t think of it as hiding it from you.” Kid explained. “We just figured that this time we should try and work out our problems before dragging someone else into this relationship, and it worked better than the last time.” “Great so you learned to talk to each other, doesn’t excuse your lack of consideration for us.” Jimmy snapped. “Can I shoot him?” Lou asked glancing at Kid then at Jimmy. “No, we’d wind up missing him.” Kid replied. “Did Lou actually fall into the shower or was that a slight exaggeration?” Buck asked suddenly, remembering the slightly embarrassed looks they’d shared after he’d caught them soaking wet in the bunkhouse. Thinking about it, Buck had to smirk, it was kinda funny that she looked as cleared eyed as hell when he caught them but had a dazed look when he brought her dry clothes, and Kid had sat in silent misery the whole time she was changing clothes. “I didn’t exactly fall into it.” Lou spoke quickly. “But I don’t see what that’s..” “Never mind, I’m glad you two are back together and now Jimmy can quit stalking around here trying to figure out something that’s in the open.” Noah said as Buck tried to hide his smirk. “What are you so happy about Buck, you’re looking like you know something that the rest of us don’t?” “I could have told you they were back together weeks ago.” Buck replied with a shrug and glanced around at everyone. “Well I could’ve.” “And why didn’t you?” “Cause I was having too much fun watching Jimmy and Cody make complete fools out of themselves.” Buck replied quickly. “Besides it’s not like everyone couldn’t have figured it out on their own. If you’d just stopped long enough to read the signs then you’d have known long before now.” “Buck I think I should shoot you.” Jimmy declared angrily. “If you knew then you should have said soemthing.” “And miss the show you and Cody put on? Not a chance. Besides it wasn’t my place to say anything. If they wanted you to know, they could tell you.” Buck glanced around and noted the coffee sitting on the stove and a pot bubbling away with a delicious aroma. “So I’m starving did Rachel leave anything for us to eat?” “On the counter.” Lou said quickly even as Jimmy stood staring at them his arms crossed over his chest, the familiar dark look on his face as he watched them. “Some reason you’re standing staring Jimmy?” Lou asked. “Yeah, you should’ve been honest.” “When’s the wedding?” Noah asked quickly, hoping to advert a full scale war before it got too bad. “Spring.” Lou smiled at Kid. “May is a nice month.” “You going to have it here?” Buck asked. “Or are you going to get married in Saint Joe?” “Here.” Kid said with a glance at Lou. “That way Lou can keep up on the runs right until the week before the wedding.” “You sure about that?” Cody asked. “I mean should Lou be taking runs now that she’s getting married?” “Don’t see why not.” Kid said. “Unless she don’t want to that is.” “Sticking with the runs sounds good to me.” Lou said with a grin. “Besides that way I can make some more money, I have a feeling we’re going to need it.” “You going home Kid?” Jimmy asked. “To Menasses?” “I haven’t thought of it in a while.” Kid replied glancing at Lou, both of them knew he’d said he’d go back if war broke out but now he wasn’t too sure. “You don’t seem to be too worried about us getting married Buck.” Kid pointed out. “Why not?” “Cause you two are meant for each other.” Buck smiled. “Everyone could see it, we just were waiting for you two figure it out.” “Hey guys.” Jesse’s voice had everyone glancing at him. “What’s going on?” “Kid and Lou are getting married.” Noah said sitting next to Lou at the table. “Oh? Are we all invited?” “Of course.” Lou said with a smile. “We’re family.” “Good. As long as it’s settled then.” Jesse said sitting at the table. The talk at the dinner table was all about Kid and Lou’s wedding plans and what they were going to do after the wedding. Sitting listening to the conversation Jimmy couldn’t help but feel a little left out, a little resentful of their happiness. After dinner he rose and headed out to the barn to check on his horse, knowing that once they were married they’d forget about everyone else and it would be just the two of them. “You know you’re wrong don’t you?” Kid’s voice had him glancing sharply at the other man who leaned against Katy’s stall wall watching him. “What are you talking about?” “Married or not there’s always going to be a place for you in our lives Jimmy. I’d have thought you would’ve known that by now.” “I envy you.” Jimmy confessed quietly. “You get a chance to have something I’ll never have.” “Why not?” “Most women don’t want to have a husband that’s always lookin’ over his shoulder to find trouble that comes calling at all times of the day or night.” Jimmy said turning to face his best friend. “I would love the chance to get married, have a family, all those things that you’ve got a chance to build.” With a shrug he smiled at his friend. “I am happy for both of you, I wish you all the best.” “Thanks Jimmy. That means a lot to both of us.” Kid smiled at him. “Now you up for a hand of cards? Cody’s bragging he’s going to win this time.” “I guess I should show the boy how it’s done huh?” Jimmy said falling into step with Kid as they walked back to the bunkhouse. “I swear that boy’s going to be trouble someday.” Laughing Kid looked at Jimmy and shook his head. “Someday? Hell he’s trouble now!” The bunkhouse door closed on the laughter and rowdy sounds of a card game in full swing, the darkness of the night forgotten as everyone realized that beginning again wasn’t so hard. Email Destardi HOME