Part One: To find Justice Jimmy shook his head at Cody who sat muttering into his sarsaparilla about some blonde haired vixen and hoped the other man would hurry up. They were due to meet Lou in a few minutes and she wouldn’t be happy with having to come to the saloon to find them. “Come on Cody. Lou’s waiting.” Jimmy snapped impatiently. “Then go meet her. I don’t want to have to talk to anyone right now.” Cody snapped, “I’m heart broken.” Shaking his head Jimmy rose and headed for the doors. Stepping out into the grey light of a raining day he noted the two riders coming up the street. A burly looking fellow was riding with a young woman with black hair and a blacker scowl. She had a pair of fancy colts, and an even fancier stallion that pranced beneath the saddle rather than walk. Shaking his head he headed for the livery to meet Lou McCloud it was time to go home. Stepping into the barn he rolled his eyes, Lou was arguing with the stable manager about something and he wasn’t sure he wanted to get in the middle? “Everything okay Lou?” Jimmy asked doubtfully. “Fine.” Lou replied glaring at the man, she knew she’d left the package for Kid here; it was a birthday present for her fiancé. They still hadn’t told the boys yet that they were getting married and Lou was glad in a way. The less the boys knew, the easier it was on her and Kid, although she wondered what they would say when she finished her last run next week. “I’ll have another look Mister but I ain’t promising anything.” the young man said looking harassed. “You’d better locate it boy or I’ll have your hide nailed to the door.” Lou snapped crossing her arms over her chest. “He lose something?” Jimmy asked looping and arm around her shoulders companionably. He like Lou, she was spunky and stubborn although recently she’d started acting a little strange, but then so had the Kid. Jimmy just figured it had something to do with the last ‘special’ run they made together. “A package I left here.” Lou turned to face Jimmy, “It cost me a month’s wages Jimmy. If he lost it Kid’s out a birthday present.” “I’m sure Kid don’t expect anything other than you for his birthday.” Jimmy muttered as a stable boy came out of the office with a bundle wrapped in brown paper. “Is this it?” The boy asked. “Yes.” Lou smiled relieved that she wouldn’t have to explain that his present went missing. “I hid it. Isaiah likes to drink, I wasn’t too sure he wouldn’t break it or what if he fell.” The boy whispered. “I’m sorry.” “Thanks. It’s okay.” Lou patted the boy on the shoulder and turned as shadows fell across the floor. “Howdy, you got empty stalls?” The sultry voice sent a shiver down Jimmy’s spine. “Got three of them. You need your horses put up?” the boy asked quickly. “Yeah. Rub ‘em both down real good. Put some grain in their feed box.” Danny replied leading the horses toward the barn. She noted the pair of young boys watching her and smiled to herself, they reminded her of her brothers. “Hey Danny, you might want to come check this out?” Darrel said coming up behind her quickly making sure that he broke the silence before he reached her. “What is it Darrel?” Danny handed the reins over and followed her saddle partner out the door. Standing in the corral was a familiar Palomino mare with an oddly shaped white patch on her hip. “Hey Sugar!” Patting the mare gently Danny glanced at Darrel, “Find out if he’s here.” She muttered. The stable boy ducked behind the two express riders when the dark haired woman strode in and stopped in front of the trio. Peeking out from behind the riders he smiled shakily, she scared him a lot. “That Palomino with the white hip is the owner around here?” “Yeah. He’s at the saloon. Came in two days ago.” The boy replied, “Course he ain’t gonna own that horse much longer the way’s he’s been going.” “Why?” Danny demanded. “He ain’t paid a dime for any of the work we done with her or the feed she had. If he doesn’t pay soon we’ll just send her on down to the Pony Express. She’d make a good horse for them.” Nodding Danny frowned and suddenly smiled, softening her features, “I tell you what boy. You quit hiding behind that young ‘un I could lift him with one hand tied behind my back and make arrangements to ship that mare out today. That man ain’t gonna need her where he’s going.” Tossing the boy a coin she headed for the street, “You best get to work boy. You’re burning light.” “He’s here.” Darrel said approaching her on the sidewalk. “He’s in the Silver Spur Saloon.” “Which one is he?” “Davidson.” Darrel replied, “He’s been playing poker but he ain’t drunk.” “Don’t matter, drunk or sober he’s gonna die today.” Danny said softly as she headed for the Saloon. Cody glanced up at the sound of spurs and stared, he’d seen that woman before and he didn’t want to be anywhere around when she was in the area. She was a crack shot and short tempered, so when she opened the saloon doors and stepped in followed by a tall, broad-shouldered man he tossed the money for his drink on the bar and took the bottle of sarsaparilla as he inched toward the door. Glancing around the room Danny noted the pale rider she’d seen somewhere before and frowned, she sensed a connection with the young man and turned to her friend. “Darrel delay him. Find out what you can.” She said nodding slightly at Cody. Turning her attention back to the room she spotted the battered Stetson of Albert Davidson and headed that direction. Groaning Cody stared at the man who was barring his path and wished he’d left when Jimmy had said to. Staring at the man he saw his life flash before him and said a reverent prayer that he’d get to see Kid’s birthday. “Just a minute.” Darrel smiled at the young man, he knew he was intimating at the best of times but he knew Danny was curious is all, “I just want to know something.” “I don’t know anything.” Cody replied quickly. “Where you headed?” “Home. Rock Creek.” Cody cringed when he realized he’d given himself away. “What’s in Rock Creek?” Darrel frowned. He’d heard of that place an old ranger was the Marshall, Hunter something he thought. “I ride for the express.” Cody said watching the woman walk across the room. He noted more than just his attention was focused on the woman, although he doubted the others were even aware of the danger of their actions. Stepping up behind Albert, Danny glanced at his cards and noted the Ace of Spades and smiled, “Perfect hand for a dead man, don’t you think Davidson?” She asked quietly startling the man. Whirling Albert tried to grab for his gun only to come up empty, “I don’t know you. What do you want?” He growled belligerently. He knew the girl, seen her back home before she went east to some fancy school. “You.” Danny replied throwing the man’s gun on the table within easy reach after she picked it up from where he’d dropped it in his haste to get up, if he was stupid enough to go for it. “Go ahead. Reach for it.” Feeling a coldness spreading through his body, Albert swallowed and wished he had a drink as he rose to stare into a pair of icy grey eyes. He knew why she was here and he didn’t like it, no one was supposed to have cared what came of Robert and Dianne Metcalfe but someone obviously did. Glancing around he saw the watchdog that the woman traveled with and swallowed a groan. He knew he’d die today, but he was determined to take this little witch with him. No one in the room could say who moved first, the woman or the man she’d been talking to. But they could say who landed in a heap on the barroom floor a spreading pool of red creeping across the floor as the woman holstered her gun and turned to walk out the door. “Look out!” Darrel called just as Danny hit the floor as a blast echoed across the room. Grabbing the young man’s arm he drug him to where she was climbing to her feet, “You okay?” he asked as he say the man who’d been about to shoot her in the back in a crumpled heap on the floor near the busted table he’d landed on. “I’m fine.” Danny said glancing over her shoulder. “Lets go.” Dragging Cody along with them, the pair left the bar and headed down the street. “Um if it’s not to much. I’ve got to get to work.” Cody said hoping to get to the barn where Lou and Jimmy were if they hadn’t left him behind because of his stupidity. “In a minute.” Danny said opening the door for the hotel and ushered the two men in before her. Quickly registering she led the way up the stairs to the room. Pushing the door open she ushered Cody in before them with a not so gentle shove. Cody stumbled forward and caught himself on the edge of the bed. Sinking onto the bed he wondered what they would want with him. Granted he was an express rider but they weren’t even on a mail run. Just on the way home from Saint Jo. “He said he’s an express rider.” Darrel said slinging his hat onto the dresser and pouring some water into the washbowl. “That right?” Danny demanded. “Yeah. I’m here with two other riders who are gonna be worried if I don’t get back to the barn to meet them before we leave.” Cody said hoping they hadn’t already left him behind. “Where bouts you from?” “Rock Creek.” Cody replied, “I told him already. Why don’t you ask him and I’ll just show myself out?” Cody groaned at the-you’ve-got-to-be-joking look she sent him. “I don’t know anything, don’t want to know anything and don’t particularly care about anything either.” Cody said flashing a smile at the woman. “How far is it to Rock Creek from here?” Danny asked ignoring the smile. She was tempted to smile back but right now she had to think of her work, not the blue stare of a young man. “Two days. At least the way we ride. It would take you four maybe.” Cody replied nervously watching the door. “What do you think?” Darrel asked Danny who paced between the door and the bed deep in thought. “We could go there next I suppose. I heard that Coulter fella was out that way. It might be worthwhile to investigate.” Danny rubbed her forehead in an agitated habit. “We would have to leave early tomorrow.” “We may be leaving earlier than that. The Marshall is coming this way.” Darrel pointed out from the window. “What does it look like?” Danny froze looking at her friend. She put out a hand and held the young rider in his place. With contact she nearly jerked her hand away as an electric jolt raced through her body. “Not good.” Darrel replied glancing at her. “We’d better sneak out another way.” Jimmy was pissed, “Cody should have been here by now. That boy’s holding us up.” He growled. “Kid’s gonna be worried.” Lou patted Lightning’s neck her thoughts on home, “I told him I’d try to be early.” Jimmy rolled his eyes heavenward, between Cody’s broken heart and feeble mind and Lou with her Kid this, Kid that, he was going insane. “I guess Kid can wait then. Cody’s my worry at the moment.” Jimmy glanced at Lou and shook his head, “He ain’t back in five minutes I’m leaving without him.” “Jimmy we can’t leave him.” Lou protested half-heartedly. “Oh yes we can. We’ve been sitting next to this creek for the better part of an hour and Cody still hadn’t shown up. If he’s in such a state that he don’t want to keep up then he can ride alone.” Jimmy snapped tightening his cinch. That finished he pulled the stirrup into place as hoof beats reach them and Cody looking pale and slightly sick rode up in a hurry. “Where the heck have you been?” Lou demanded. “We’re running late.” “Lets go.” Cody snapped and spurred his sorrel. He was more interested in gaining some distance than answering questions. Besides he thought, they wouldn’t believe me anyway. Shaking her head Danny watched the express rider sneak off, “You’d think I was scary or something.” She said to Darrel as they rode out of town after dealing with the Marshall. Danny had just flashed her Ranger badge and said the man was wanted and the Marshall had backed off. “You are.” Darrel laughed at Danny’s affronted look, “You have to admit Danielle you’re not exactly a friendly looking individual.” “All I wanted was the boy’s name.” Danny protested, “I’ve seen him before. I just wanted to meet him, you know introduce myself.” Looking heaven ward Darrel nudged his horse into a canter and left a laughing Danny in his dust. Two days later Cody was hiding in the barn, Kid was after him for making Lou late, Jimmy was trying to kill him with work and Lou still hadn’t said more than two words to him. He knew they’d back off if he told them what had happened, but how do you tell a bunch of rough riding boys and girl that a dark haired woman with amazing grey eyes scared you spit less. Sitting in the stall he cringed when he heard Kid and Lou’s voices coming into the barn. Glancing skyward he asked for a little intervention. If they found him they’d kill him, although if they didn't he'd kill himself because listening to those two and their mushiness was sickening. “I don’t know Cody’s never done anything like this before. At least without bragging about some girl the whole way through. He hasn’t said a word about it.” Lou explained as Kid and her headed for the barn. They were supposed to be cleaning the bunkhouse but it hadn’t taken that long so they were headed out to the barn for some quality time. “When I find him he better have a good excuse.” Kid muttered, “ He won’t even look at me.” “Could be you telling him you were going to kill him for keep us on the road longer than necessary.” “I didn’t mean it Lou.” Kid said as he opened the barn door. “I was just upset at the time.” “I know. He’ll wake up sooner or later. Speaking of waking up. Where is he?” Lou asked looking around. Cody’s horse was in the corral and yet the horse’s stall looked like it was occupied. Smiling she headed for the stall just as someone called “Riders coming.” Turning the pair headed for the yard, pausing only long enough to steal a kiss before disappearing into the sunlight. “Thank you.” Cody mouthed as they left. Rising he peeked out and headed for the back door. Sneaking around the side of the barn he noted two dark colored horses at the watering trough next to the barn and cringed. Hoping no one was looking he ran toward the bunkhouse and slipped inside via the back door. Danny noted the man running from the corral to the back of the bunkhouse and smiled, “You got someone here you’re not supposed to?” She asked the young boy she’d seen in Silverfern. “No.” Lou replied. “Well someone just ran into the bunkhouse.” Lou looked at Kid and sighed, “Cody.” Kid nodded and headed for the bunkhouse. “Cody?” “A rider of ours. He’s been acting real strange the last few days.” Lou explained. “Oh?” Darrel asked silkily. “Well we just got back from Silverfern and he’s just hiding. Made us late by staying in town.” Lou explained. Danny looked at Darrel as he grinned, “Your Romeo.” He explained. Danny nodded suddenly understanding what he was referring to. “Well I wanted to know him better.” “Excuse me?” Lou studied the woman in front of her; she didn’t look like someone Cody would be romantically involved with. “Just something that I though up when we were traveling this way.” Danny replied and turned to the bunkhouse, “Do you mind if I go in?” “Not at all.” Kid noted Cody was lying in his bunk, his blanket over his head. Shaking his head he walked over and grabbed it, jerking it off Cody who looked like he’d rather be dead. “What are you doing?” Kid demanded wondering briefly if he was hurt or sick. “Go away. I’m dead. Anyone asks about me I fell and broke my neck.” Cody snapped and jerked the blanket back over him. He had a bad feeling about this, now he wished that he’d said something about what happened but it was too late for that. Kid glanced up as the door swung open and the woman who’d rode in walked in. “Hi.” “Hi.” Danny replied walking up to the bunk. Grabbing the blanket she tugged on it until Cody was looking at her, “Wake up sleeping beauty.” Danny said. “Go away. I don’t know anything. Ask him. He’ll tell you I’m stupid.” Cody said moving away from her on the bunk. Danny laughed, “I have no problem with you. Relax would you.” “Oh sure. You just go around kidnapping innocent bystanders.” Cody snapped then instantly regretted it. “I did not kidnap you! I just encouraged you to join us.” Danny snapped back confidently. “It was kidnapping. I could have you arrested you know.” Kid frowned, “What are you babbling about He’d never seen the young man this upset before. Danny frowned, “Interesting name.” “Don’t care. Go away. Take your watchdog and leave.” Cody said pulling his blanket up again. “Come on, you’re not making any sense.” Kid snapped. “Would you quit acting like a jackass and get up?” “I am not moving until she has left.” Cody pointed at Danny from under the blanket. “Excuse me.” Danny touched Kid’s arm. “I’d like to talk to him privately then I’ll leave.” Kid glanced between them and smiled, “Sure. We’ll be outside.” He replied, he’d seen the way Cody’d looked at her. Revenge was going to be sweet for making Lou late for their date. “No!” Cody grabbed for Kid’s arm, “You can’t leave me alone with her.” “I’m sorry Cody but I can and I am.” Kid replied smiling at the woman before heading out the door. "Look at it this way, I warned you I'd get even. Now I am." Glaring daggers at her Cody sat up in his bunk as she studied him. “Look I don’t know what you want, but I haven’t got anything so why don’t you run along.” Danny smiled and hopped up on the bunk, “So why don’t you tell me what is it that you find so scary about me? And don’t say you’re not, because I can read you like a book.” “I don’t know. Maybe the fact that you killed two men in front of me and didn’t even blink? Maybe it’s the cold way you deal with everyone around you. Every time I’ve seen you, you’re scowling.” Cody snapped angrily, “Where’d you ever learn to shoot like that. Even Jimmy’s not that good and he’s the best I've ever seen.” “My brother’s taught me.” Danny replied. “I learned watching my father as well. Just one of those habits you pick up.” “Bull.” Cody snapped. “Go away. I ain’t talking to you anymore. I don’t even want to know what you’re doing here.” “You know anyone named Coulter in these parts?” Danny asked drawing a leg up on the bunk and sitting comfortably. “Coulter? No.” Cody said, the name did ring a bell but not from the Rock Creek area. It had been the last name of, ‘Oh my god.” He thought, ‘Jed!’ “What?” Danny watched his expression carefully noting the shock in his eyes. “Nothin’.” Cody mumbled hoping someone would go get Teaspoon he’d help him. Cody just knew he would. “Oh it was something. And I’m not moving until you tell me.” Danny crossed her arms and glared. Sitting up Cody leaned toward her and snapped, “Yes you are. You’re a pain in the butt and I’ve put up with you all I’m going to. Go away.” “No. I want to know about Coulter, you know something. I’m not leaving until you tell me.” Danny poked him in the chest with her finger, frustrated by his bullheadedness. When he grabbed for her finger she jerked back and it felt like someone had completely upset her. Grabbing onto the nearest thing, which just happened to be Cody they landed in a heap on the floor with a clatter and a scream. Darrel sat on the corral fence and watched the horses as the two boys he’d been sitting with headed for the barn. He knew Danny could be stubborn, but when she found out what she wanted she’d be out. Hearing the scream from inside he headed for the bunkhouse at a run, the two boys hot on his heels. “Danielle!” Stepping onto the porch he froze, from the sounds of it she was swearing in Irish, not a good sign. “Danielle you okay?” “I’m fine.” Danielle hollered trying to untangle herself from the man on top of her. “Would you get off of me?” She hissed as his hand brushed against her thign “I’m trying.” Cody snapped back. He struggled for a moment then froze, “I think we’re stuck.” He whispered feeling a tug on his gun belt. “We can’t be stuck.” Danny said still trying to get up unsuccessfully. Hearing the door open she paled, she did not need Darrel knowing she was stuck to a cocky express rider. Kicking at the nearest chair she sent it crashing into the door and sighed when the door slammed shut quickly. “Cody? What’s going on?” Hearing Lou’s voice Cody groaned, just what he needed an audience? Trying in vain to free himself he heard a ripping sound and glanced down at the woman under him, “Tell me that wasn’t your shirt.” “No.” Danny said. “That was my pant. Hold still and I’ll try to work the buckles loose.” Danny glared at the man as she felt the leather ties of her guns biting into the exposed flesh on her pant leg. “How did you manage to tear my pants?” “I don’t know.” Cody snapped. “I still haven’t figured out what I’m doing down here.” Cody?” Lou’s voice sounded a bit harried. “I’m fine.” Cody hollered before muttering, “I’m just buckle to buckle with a crazy woman.” “Hey! I’m not crazy.” Danny snapped genuinely hurt at the thought that anyone would consider her insane. “You sure aren’t sane.” Cody replied jerking on the belt he wore, if he could get to the buckle maybe he could undo it. Feeling naked flesh he jerked a hand away hoping he didn’t get slapped on top of this humiliation. Darrel frowned, “There another way in?” “The backdoor.” Kid replied as Jimmy and Buck rode up. “Is it locked?” “No.” Kid replied, “We were airing the place out earlier and it didn’t make sense to lock the doors when the boys have to bring in wood through that door.” “I hope she hasn’t killed him.” Darrel muttered. “What’s going on?” Buck asked as he and Jimmy joined them. “We’re going to find out." Lou stated just as they heard Cody start swearing followed by a loud thump. “For Crypts sake woman would you hold still? I can’t get this undone if you’re going to wriggle all over the place.” Cody ground out, her wiggling was having a definite effect on his body, something that could be very embarrassing. “Then undo it and quit pawing me. You’re the one who ripped my pants.” “And you’re the one who pulled me down, so don’t even start with that routine.” Cody said as she shifted again. Danny slapped at his hands and reach to undo the buckle on her gun belt only to have her hands shoved out of the way sending her gun across the floor near the door. “This isn’t funny buster. My hands are smaller than yours if you’d just let me try.” “Sure I don’t mind some help, if all you’re grabbing is the buckles.” Cody hissed as her hand came into contact with something other than the buckle on his gun belt. Groaning he shifted and heard her pants rip even more. “Hey I’ve only got two pairs of pants buster, you keep it up you’re gonna be replacing one of them.” Danny hissed as she heard footsteps on the back steps. “Oh great, is that door locked?” “No.” Cody replied hearing the steps and dropping his head down her shoulder. “Ouch.” Danny shoved at his shoulder, “Come on we have to hurry. This is embarrassing.” “How about we cut them?” Cody suggested. “If we cut them then we could get up and they’d think nothing happened.” “You got a knife?” “No. Do you?” “I don’t usually carry it. My corset doesn’t allow for that sort of thing.” Danny snapped her voice dripping with sarcasm, “Why would I ask if you had one if I did?” Kid frowned as he turned the doorknob. From the sounds coming from inside they were either killing each other or she was trying to drive Cody crazy. “Well how the hell would I know?” Cody was past angry. He suddenly wished Jimmy had killed him, “All I know is they’re gonna come in and I don’t know about you but this doesn’t look very respectable.” “Oh shut up and hold still.” Danny snapped slapping at his hands as he put them on the floor next to her waist. When he moved them he landed on her knocking the wind out of her, “Oomph. Cody!” “Sorry. Where am I supposed to put them then?” “How about in your pockets?” Danny replied as she struggled to see the clasp on the buckles. If she could get one undone then maybe he could get off of her. “What is going on in here?” Darrel demanded taking in the pair on the floor. Seeing Danny’s red face and Cody’s white one he had to bite his lip to keep from laughing. “You having fun darlin’?” He asked his friend kneeling next to her. He brushed a lock of hair away from her eyes and waited. “Shut up and get me a knife.” Danny snapped wriggling to get out from under Cody to some degree. Cody glared at her when her thigh came into contact with his groin sending an electric current through him, “Sorry.” She muttered with a halfhearted shrug. She could feel his reaction as much as she could feel her own at her squirming. “Just stay put.” Cody snapped. “When this is over you may leave. Go somewhere far away.” Smothering his laughter Jimmy stared at his bunkmate, “You need some help there Cody?” "Hey Cody she too much to handle?" Buck laughed outright at Cody's glare. Glaring at Jimmy and Buck, Cody just snapped his mouth shut and tried to lift himself a little off her only to freeze when she grabbed the lapels of his coat. “What?” “Do not move.” Danny whispered, “In case you have forgotten my pants are ripped and you’re um assets so to speak, are um pressing against my uh feminine assets.” Shrugging Cody just grinned at her, “Payback.” “Here!” Buck offered her his knife out of his boot, “This help?” “Only if I get to kill her with it.” Cody snapped reaching for it. “CODY!” Danny shouted, “Hold bloody still or I swear I'm gonna kill you slowly and painfully.” “It was your brilliant idea to cut them!” Cody protested, he couldn’t help it if he was a little rough; he was trying to get them separated. “Well for God’s sake wait a minute.” Danny snapped and reached for the knife before he could grab it. Spinning it on her finger she looked at it for a half a second the shook her head, “What I wouldn’t give?” “Just cut them and lets get this over with.” Cody snapped. He could feel the flush of embarrassment creeping on his face as the crowd tried to smother their laughter. “And here I thought you beginning to take a shine to me.” Danny laughed, she was embarrassed but she could at least escape the questions. Brushing his arm aside she gritted her eat as his hand came into contact with her breast. Rolling a little to the side and inserted the knife between her hip and his. Being careful she sliced through the leather with a tortured expression. “You owe me a gun belt on top of a pair of pants.” “Ha. I ain’t responsible for your misfortunes.” Cody replied feeling the belts give way and starting to rise. As he came up, she sat up and glared at him. Feeling slightly out classed with her holding the knife he moved to get up, “ I need a pair of pants.” “Lou? Can she borrow a pair of yours?” Cody asked hopefully. “Sure.” Lou laughed at Cody as she pulled out a pair of pants from her trunk and tossed them to the young woman picking herself up off the floor. “You can change behind there.” She pointed to a blanket that had been strung up to give her a little privacy when she needed it. Grabbing the pants, Danny stepped behind the blanket and quickly changed clothes. Frowning at the torn jeans she stepped out and threw them at the fireplace. “Why don’t you just stitch them?” Cody asked sweetly, “You’re a woman. Don’t all women know how to sew?” He ignored the dirty look Lou was sending him but felt a chill at the look Danny sent him. “Sure I know how to sew. Do you?” Danny said picking up her gun belt and wrapping it up as Darrel held a hand out for it. “Thanks Darrel. You want to see if you can pick me up another one in town?” She said taking her guns from Lou who had picked them up. “You gonna be okay?” He asked concerned for the blonde haired man. “Oh I will.” Danny nodded, “He on the other hand is dead.” “Now Danielle, you can’t take offence at him. He’s young and stupid.” Darrel said hoping the young man would keep quiet. "Besides you said you wanted to meet him." “That’s right. Young and stupid.” Cody said ducking behind Buck. “I’m still not moving until you tell me what I want to know.” Danny snapped and sat down on the bottom bunk, she was sore from falling from the top one, especially when she’d gotten sandwiched between the hard floor and a hundred some odd pounds of wiry muscle. “I don’t know.” Cody tossed his hands in the air. “I have never met anyone here named Coulter. I knew someone in Sweetwater named Coulter but he’s dead now.” Danny raised on eyebrow and stared at her nails. Crossing her legs she just ignored him as he swore and threw his hands up in the air. “What do you want with him?” Kid asked. He knew as well as everyone that was the name his brother had been using when Jimmy had killed him. “He’s wanted for murder.” Danny replied quickly. “And Mr. I don’t know anything Cody knows him.” “Knew him.” Kid replied. “He’s dead. Was killed almost a year ago.” “By whom?” Danny frowned as she got off the bunk. “Me.” Jimmy replied. “Why?” “You killed Jed Coulter?” Danny looked at the man and quickly shrugged, “I guess that would make sense, a gunslinger kills a gun runner.” Shrugging she spun her guns on her fingers and waited for Darrel to get back. “You don’t know where the man he was riding with is do you?” “He was riding with a gang.” Kid snapped irritated at the woman's questions. They were a little too close to him for him to be completely relaxed. “Breed wouldn’t ride with a gang. So that means sometime between the time they left Swift Valley and when he met up with you they split.” Danny figured, “That means it may take weeks to locate him.” “Breed?” Cody asked. “What does he look like?” “Tall, dark hair. He’s mixed breeding, Mexican and white.” “Sounds like that fella Teaspoon’s got a flyer for. Wanted for robbery over at Big Forks.” Cody suggested. “Where is Teaspoon?” Danny asked rising from the bunk. “Oh no!” Cody shook his head, "I’m not letting you get anywhere near him. I’ll go ask him and come back. You stay put!” Before anyone could say anything he dived out the door and headed for town. Hurrying into the Marshall's office he stepped up to Teaspoon and tapped him on the shoulder. It looked like he was napping. "What do you want Cody?" Teaspoon asked. "Where's that flyer on that Mexican man you got?" "Hanging on the wall. Why?" Teaspoon sat up and noted Cody looked like he'd been wrestling. "What happened to you?" "You don't want to know." Cody replied grabbing the flyer and rushing back outside. He hurried back to the station, and stuffed the flyer in Danny's face. "Here. No need to bother anyone you can just go look elsewhere." "I'm beginning to think you don't like me." Danny said with a grin as Darrel handed her the new holsters and she slung them on. "You've got that right." Cody muttered avoiding everyone’s eyes. "Danny we should get going." Darrel said, "Big Forks is a good ways off, it's not likely he's still there. But it might be a good start to finding him." "He's no where near Big Forks." Danny shook her head. She glanced at her companion, "He's gonna go where he thinks he'll be safest." "Where do you think?" Darrel asked softly. He trusted her judgment; it had proven to be the only thing that had saved his life more than once. Danny stepped to the window and stared out she shivered at the clouds gathering and turned to him with a sad shrug, "Here." "Not good." Darrel sat down watching her, "Is it possible he would go somewhere else?" "It's possible, but no." Danny frowned, "I'm sure he'll come this way. The only problem is catching him." "We should tell Teaspoon if he's coming this way." Kid said. "Yeah. Hide the women and children lock up the horses. Breeds coming." Danny snickered tiredly. She hated dealing with him he was bad news. Lou glanced at Kid who glanced at the door, "Come on we'd best get Teaspoon." "How do you know he'll come this way?" Cody demanded. "I don't know." Danny replied truthfully. "I just know." Buck studied the woman, he hadn't of thought she was a shaman, after all she didn't look Indian. Shaking off the bad feeling Danny sighed, "Ain't no sense in dwelling on it. He won't be here for a day or so." Shaking their heads Lou followed Kid out of the bunkhouse and into the barn. After saddling up, they rode into town and approached Teaspoon. "You better come to the station." Lou said. "Cody's new friend thinks troubles coming." "Oh?" Teaspoon followed his riders back to the station. After introductions the young woman explained the situation to him and he hesitated. "You're sure?" "Trust me Marshall if she says he's coming. He'll be here." Darrel stated. "I've seen her do this before. She's always right." "We need to set a trap for him then." Teaspoon stated. "He'll sense it." Danny said as she made a pot of coffee. "It's better to just let him come then set the trap. There's something here he wants." "What?" "I don't know." Danny replied. "I just know that he doesn't travel anywhere without a purpose." Cody watched the young woman pacing and felt uneasy if she was right, and her watchdog said she was, then it could be bad news. "Why don't you relax?" "I can't." Danny replied shifting again. Something told her something was wrong. She feared for Rachel's safety as well as the safety of the riders. They had something Breed wanted and she wasn't sure what it was. She'd been watching Kid and Lou for the last hour and noted the easy way they interacted with each other. She'd seen them disappear into the barn a little while ago and noted no one had gone to the barn since. Shaking her head, she realized the young couple was in love. It had to be nice to know she didn't have to hide her feelings for people, Danny thought jealously. She'd always known being different made people avoid her; it was a gift her mother had said from her ancestors. "You have any idea about what he would want here?" Buck asked watching her. Tension seemed to eminate off her and her constant movement was driving everyone crazy. Danny frowned and glanced out the window at the sound of laughter, Kid and Lou were coming back in Lou laughing as something Kid had said. Paling she stepped back shaking her head, "No." Glancing at Darrel through her lashes she wondered what he do if she told him the truth. Breed was coming for her, but she couldn't let them know. Instead she focused on thinking of someone that he might go after if he killed her. "We don't have anything anyone would go out of their way to get here." Cody said. "It's not what, it's who!" Danny said quickly watching the couple coming. Hoping they'd forgive the little white lie she made up her mind instantly, she'd be damned if Breed was going to do anything to hurt anyone else, she should have killed him years ago. "What?" Jimmy demanded rising. "Why?" "What is it Danny?" Darrel asked from where he sat playing cards with Noah. "I'm not sure." Turning to face Darrel she noted the concern on everyone's face. "I just have this feeling he’s after someone, not something. I can’t explain it." "We ain't going to go anywhere." Cody started. Danny smiled at him and Cody groaned, "I’m not saying you have to run, all I’m saying is something doesn’t feel right." "Okay what the hell do you mean?" Jimmy demanded. "Simple, I simply have to figure out the who and why." Danny replied as they entered the room. Kid held the door for Lou and followed her inside. When they entered he felt a moment of trepidation but shrugged it off, Danny's pacing had driven him nuts. "Hey Kid can you do me a favor?" Darrel asked rising. "What do you need?" Kid asked frowning. He hoped it didn't involve going anywhere. He wasn't going to leave Lou sitting waiting around for trouble. "We need to get Rachel to safety. I don't know the woman that well, so I was wondering if you could come with me to talk to her." Darrel explained. The excuse was weak but it was the best he could do on short notice. "Sure." Kid said he needed to talk to her anyway. "Come on. She's up at the house." Kid replied with a smile at Lou he led the other man from the room. Danny waited until the door was shut and the pair was on their way to the house before she turned to Lou, "I have a feeling he knows someone here, or at least someone connected to an old associate." "What?" Lou frowned. Glancing at the boys she noted their unease, "What's going on?" "That guy she's waiting on is after Kid." Jimmy explained quietly "Kid ain't gonna run." Lou protested. "It's not worth dying Lou." Danny snapped, " You and he will simply take Rachel to safety. I’ll figure out a way to deal with Breed.” "Darrel said he was going to do that?" Cody put in. Danny waved off the comment. "I'll deal with Breed." "You?" Jimmy laughed, "How? Like you dealt with Cody?" "Shut up Jimmy." Cody snapped. "She can handle this all by herself." "How would you know?" Jimmy replied still laughing, "You reading her mind." "No. I've seen her in action. She's fast. Faster than you." Cody replied as Danny started pacing. With every step she rubbed her forehead. "Kid isn't going to like this. He doesn’t run from problems and y'all know it." At the quiet look from Danny she shrugged, "Fine. I'll get Kid out of here." Lou frowned twisting the ring on her finger she'd decided to start wearing. Kid had given it to her for their engagement. Danny noted the woman's hands and smiled softly, "The only place that Breed wouldn't go is the jail. If you can get him there and keep him there. Darrel will come back to me sooner or later." "You and he are very close aren't you?” Cody asked, "You married or something?" "Hell no!" Danny shook her head, "His wife is in Washington at a hospital there." "I still don't like this." Cody muttered relieved beyond words that she wasn’t married. "Lou is right, Kid's gonna be pissed when he realizes that we're protecting him." "He isn't going to find out." Danny retorted, "No one is telling him. Darrel will do whatever it takes to keep him at the jail, it's up to her to make sure he doesn't have to." Lou glared at Cody who shrugged innocently. He hadn't said a word about Lou being a girl. "He didn't say anything." Danny replied seeing the men heading back with Rachel in tow. "They're coming. Remember Lou he doesn't need to know anything." "I don't like keeping secrets from him." Lou muttered, "But I'll keep my mouth shut anyway." Danny smiled as the two men led Rachel inside. Darrel simply said in the morning and Danny nodded. Breed wouldn't be there before nightfall the next day anyway. When dawn arrived Danny shifted in her chair, she hadn't slept more than an hour last night. Her instincts were screaming at her that danger was close. She wasn't sure how much she could handle about this coming fight; she knew Darrel would back her in a fight. He had always been there for her, sometimes she wished she'd been the one he'd married but that stubborn blonde inside touched her in a way Darrel never could. "You need to get some sleep." Cody said, he'd heard her leave earlier and wondered why she didn't come in. The woman sitting in a chair next to him was an enigma. She wore a dark cloak around her to keep everyone at a distance, but she could joke and laugh with everyone so easily. He wondered why that was so familiar then realized she reminded him of Jimmy. "Can't sleep." Danny replied quietly. "We should get everyone moving." "Yep." Cody replied sinking onto the chair next to her and leaning back in it. "I guess we should." Shrugging when he didn't move she glanced at him and smile softly, "So you hear Lou and Kid talking last night?" "Yep. Couldn't make out what they were saying but it must have been a great conversation. Lou didn't go back to her bunk until about an hour ago." Danny laughed softly, "Take a look at her left hand,” she suggested rising and stretching. "Why?" Cody frowned. Kid would kill him for snooping if Lou didn't beat him to the punch. "Because that's what they were talking about." Danny said ruffling Cody's hair affectionately. "I'm gonna go for a walk. If I'm not back by lunch come find me." "Which way you going?" Cody rose with her and watched her step off the porch. "West." Danny replied as she headed out into the gathering light. Cody watched her go for a few minutes and shook his head she obviously had issues. Knowing Jimmy's prickly attitude he figured Danny probably wouldn't think of settling down. Shaking his head at the thought he headed inside. Stopping near Lou's bunk he noted she was still sleeping facing the door one hand under her pillow. Lifting the edge of the pillow he glanced down when Kid shifted but didn't wake up. Tugging on Lou's sleeve gently he moved her hand so he could see it and smiled. A simple diamond stone set into a gold band decorated her hand and he smiled softly. A soft sound had him meeting her angry eyes, "What are you doing?" she whispered jerking her hand back. "Nothing." Cody replied guiltily. " Danny said it's time to get a move on." "Where is she?" Lou said pushing her hair out of her face and tugging the blanket up over her shoulder. She noted Cody was dressed and raised an eyebrow, "You're up early aren't you?" "Just get going." Cody replied and headed for his bunk. On the way he nudged Darrel to wake him. Hours later Cody frowned as he glanced at the West she still wasn't back. How long could it take to go for a walk to clear her mind? He wondered. Turning his attention back to the stall he was cleaning Cody's mind drifted back to the missing woman and he wondered again what could be keeping her. Danny stared at the cold black eyes of Breed and swallowed. She would never admit it but this man scared her, he was a cold-blooded killer. Hoping to bluff her way out of a bad situation she straightened her shoulders and faced him. Despite not having her guns she wasn't unarmed, the knife she'd borrowed was sitting in its usual place under her vest and a small dagger was tucked into her boot. She still wished that she wasn’t alone with him. She wasn’t completely convinced that she could face him and win. "Well if it ain't the daughter of a whore." Breed's distinct baritone grated across Danny's nerves and she shrugged. "I wouldn't know, you're momma was the whore." Danny replied quickly. "I'd almost forgot about you when we rode out. Pity you weren’t back when we arrived." Breed smiled coldly at the woman before him. He knew her reputation with a gun but she didn't have hers. It didn't matter anyway. He'd have a little fun with her before he killed her. She'd make a good woman to play with before he killed her, he only hoped she was half as spirited as her mother. "Too bad I didn't forget you." Danny replied stepping away from the water's edge. She knew he'd kill her if he got the chance. She also knew if he could; he'd rape her first. "Oh?" Breed asked walking toward her, adjusting his gun belt. Swallowing her fear Danny tensed, "Sure. I knew you'd slink out of whatever slimy hole you'd crawled into. Pity you didn't just curl up and die. Save me the work of killing you." Danny replied disgusted as he shrugged off his jacket and kept coming. She never saw the first slap that sent her sprawling across the grass. Gasping at the pain she felt him come down on top of her and pushed her fear down and clung to the rage that bubbled through her blood. This was a life or death struggle now, pride was forgotten as Danny struggled to get to her knife. When Breed rolled her over she struggled to get to her knife even as he beat her again and again. Finally grasping the handle she tugged even as she felt the earth beneath her touching bare skin as he ripped at her pants. The sound of her blouse ripping as he mauled her breasts sent shivers of disgust through her and she trembled. She couldn't stop herself from screaming as his hand brushed her bare hip. Finally pulling the knife free she rammed it into his stomach as hard as she could and jerked upward with the blade. His flesh gave way beneath the sharp blade and she twisted the blade a little more as the blood from the wound flooded out and soaked her hands, and clothes. Despite the dizziness and pain she felt Danny knew she had to kill him. Grabbing for his gun as he swung at her again she pulled it from the holster hanging from his hip and lifted it. The boom echoed in her head as she squeezed the trigger the muzzle against his throat. Flinching at the blood that spattered on her face and clothes she dropped the gun next to her with a thud and gasped painfully for breathe. The dead weight on top of her made her close her eyes in relief. Pushing a blood soaked hand against him she rolled him off her and pulled out the knife. Wiping it off she slid it in her sheath and rolled over. Her chest hurt and the taste of blood in her mouth made her want to throw up. Dragging her body toward the water she ducked her head under and lifted it. Pushing her hair back she glance at the man still twitching in death behind her and couldn't stop herself from throwing up. The convulsions that racked her body send pain screaming through her rib cage, knowing he'd busted several of her ribs she glanced down at herself. The buttons on her blouse were gone exposing the white globes of her breasts and the bruising rising up from the exposed flesh, her shirt was nearly shredded and soaked with blood. Crying softly she stumbled to her feet and headed for his horse. She stumbled several times before she managed to reach the grey gelding. Digging in his saddlebags she pulled out a folded package and noted it was a white shirt. Feeling relieved that at least she could cover her self she pulled it on over top her clothes even as she slid to the ground fighting the wave of dizziness that hit her. Using a leather thong she tied her pants on, the buttons had long since gone flying at Breed’s rough hands. "Come on girl. You've got to get back,” she told herself as she grabbed for the stirrup only to have the horse trot off as she missed it and hit the ground. Cursing at the horse she crawled up the incline, unmindful of the cuts on her hands or the condition of her clothes. Struggling to her feet she headed back toward the bunkhouse. After a couple of steps she fell and struggled to get up. The heat from the mid day sun was intense but she refused to consider it, all she knew was she had to get back! After several attempts at walking she gave up and figured she'd just crawl back, it would take longer but at least she would get back. Jimmy opened the bunkhouse door and stepped outside. He noted Darrel and Kid standing in the yard talking and frowned, he'd have thought that they'd be in town at the jail with Lou and Rachel. Shrugging he went to the triangle and rang it to summon everyone to lunch. Cody heard the triangle and smiled, lunch was ready. Stepping out into the sunlight he frowned Darrel was in the yard talking to Kid but Danny was nowhere to be seen. Worried that something had happened had him turning around and heading back inside to saddle his horse. Leading the mare from the stall he headed outside as he heard the bunkhouse door close. "Where's Cody?" Kid asked setting at the table next to Darrel. Lou'd told him the truth about what was going on and he wasn't too impressed. "In the barn." Jimmy replied as he set the pot of stew on the table. "He's usually the first one in here, he sick or something?" Buck asked. "Not that I know of." Jimmy replied sitting down just as they heard the soft clatter of a single horse leaving. "Who the hell was that?" Rising they glanced out the window in time to see Cody heading west around the barn. Glancing at each other they shrugged, "Something's wrong. He wouldn't miss lunch." Kid said. "I know." "Where's Danny?" Darrel asked suddenly. "Went for a walk earlier, she hasn't got back yet." Noah stated quickly. Darrel frowned then shrugged carelessly, "Probably went to meet her." "I hope you're right." Kid snapped, "I don't think he'd appreciate it if he got into trouble without a gun." Kid pointed to where Cody's hung from the peg by his bed. Unease filled the room and everyone started to rise, "Sit down. We don't know if there’s trouble." Darrel said, "We go rushing out there Danny's likely to kill us for interrupting talk or something. That woman's as bad tempered as they come." Shrugging the boys turned their attention back to Rachel's left over stew that Jimmy had heated up. Cody trotted the mare along the road as he tried to find something that would say Danny'd been this way. Pulling up when he saw a heap in the road a few yard up he spurred the horse into a gallop and raced toward it. Jumping from the still moving horse he hurried up to the still figure and rolled him over only to gasp in shock. "Danny!" He exclaimed. She'd obviously been in a hell of a fight, the bruises on her face, a split lip and a small cut on the bridge of her nose showed she'd been beaten, the blood-soaked shirt and torn jeans showed who ever it was had one thing on his mind. Glancing around he didn't see anyone or anything and felt a shaft of fear tear through him. He should have come with her; maybe he could have protected her. "Help me." Danny whispered softly. She didn't know if it was Darrel or someone else but she needed to get to a doctor. "Sh. We're gonna get you to Doc Shaybern, he'll patch you up." Cody said lifting her and setting her on his horse. Easily swinging up behind her he wrapped his coat around her and turned his horse around to head for home. "Hang in there Danny." He pleaded sinking spur into the mare he galloped toward home. Hearing the hoof beats that slowed as they came up to the bunkhouse Jimmy glanced around, "Cody's back." Everyone jumped when the door burst open and Cody walked in carrying a bloody figure, "Get the doctor." He ordered. "Danielle!" Darrel knocked his chair over getting up but Cody had already put her down on Kid's bunk. Buck raced outside and grabbed Cody's horse to get the doctor. "What happened?" Jimmy demanded. "I don't know. She said she'd be back for lunch when she wasn't I went looking for her, found her about five miles out." Cody explained brushing the blood-encrusted hair away from her face. Danny shifted; the pain was so bad she couldn't breathe. Pushing at the restriction on her chest she couldn't move it. Oh god no! Please not that! She cried soundlessly, she'd die if it was Breed on top of her. "Sh. it's okay." From far away she heard the familiar voice trying to soothe her even as the weight on her chest shifted, easing a little. "You've got to keep covered." "I wish I knew who did this." Darrel said staring at the battered face of his friend, "How far are out did you say she was when you found her?" "Five miles. " Cody replied then muttered a protest as Darrel jerked on his arm, pulling him toward the door. "What are you doing?" "You're gonna show me." Darrel said dragging Cody along with him as he headed for his horse. The two men noted Buck coming in with the doctor and another man, who Cody said was the Marshall. "Why is it I'm showing you?" Cody complained. "Because you found her." Darrel replied as he followed Cody out on the trail back the way the younger man had come. Within an hour they were dismounting next to the trail where Cody said he'd found Danny. Glancing around Darrel noted the scuff marks of a body crawling and started back along them. "Oh my god!" Cody gasped staring at the scene below him. A man lay sprawled along the grass next to a pond, his belly sliced open and half his face blown off. Dismounting he followed Darrel down the incline and watched the older man's furious expression. "Who is he?" Cody asked, "I've never seen him before." "Breed." Darrel said squatting next to the man's body, "Or what's left of him. Damn she knew it was her he was after. That's why she was out here." "How can you be sure?" Cody demanded. "She doesn't seem like the kind of person who'd set herself up." “Breed wouldn't have left Jed if he owed him anything. My guess is she was trying to protect me." Darrel shook his head, "Or you." "She'll be okay. Won't she?" Cody asked as they grabbed a blanket off the back of Darrel's saddle and rolled the dead man in it. Catching up the horse that stood patiently nearby they tossed his body over it and tied it in place. Darrel glanced at Cody and noted the frown, "I don't know." Both men glanced up at the sound of hoof beats and saw Teaspoon coming with Jimmy and Kid. When the oncoming trio spotted them they slowed down and finally pulled up next to them. "What did you find?" Teaspoon asked. Something told him he wasn't going to like it. "Breed." Darrel said handing the reins over. "From the look of it he surprised her." "Damn." Teaspoon lifted the edge of the blanket. "Looks like he bit off more'n he could chew." "Only a fool would walk up unannounced on Danny." Darrel shook his head, "Breed might have thought he had the upper hand but she knew what she was doing. Her daddy taught her well." "We'd better get back. The doctor was with her when we left." Kid stated quietly he could see the blood in the grass and realized it could have just as easily been Lou or Rachel that madman had gone after. Cody swung into the saddle his mind racing, what would the doctor have to say. Whether she liked it or not, Danny was a very slight woman there was no telling how much damage had been done. Cursing himself he followed the other riders back into town and waited with Buck and Noah for the doctor to come out. The sun was fading when the bunkhouse door opened and the doctor came out a tired look on his face. "Well?" Cody demanded rising from his seat. "She's got a few busted ribs and bruised internal organs. The bruises and cuts on her face will heal, it's just gonna take time." The doctor explained, "She can't be moved for at least twenty four hours, someone's got to sit up with her and watch her. If she gets worse come get me." "I'll watch her first.” Darrel volunteered and Cody nodded before preceding the man into the building. "I think he's taking this awful hard." Buck commented when the door closed softly. "He hasn't even asked once about dinner." "I know." Teaspoon glanced up at Rachel who was quietly leaving the bunkhouse with a sad smile. "Cody's sleeping. He said he'd take the second watch. Who are we watching for?" "Where's Lou?" Kid asked quickly glancing around. "Main house. Said she was going to make something to eat." Rachel replied as Kid departed for the main house at a run. Shaking her head she turned back to the rest of the boys. "Well?" "Doctor Shaybern said we had to keep an eye on Danny round the clock." Buck replied as Kid closed the main house door behind him. "Makes sense. I've never seen anyone that badly beaten in my life, to be still alive is a miracle in itself." Rachel wiped at a strand of hair and shrugged. "I don't know where you boys are gonna sleep. She can't be moved or I'd say move her to the main house." "We'll sleep in the barn." Noah said quietly concerned for the young woman and Cody. "I'm more worried about Cody, I have a feeling he feels guilty about this." "T'weren't his fault." Teaspoon replied, "I guess we'd better go find out what Lou burnt for supper." Groaning the boys rose to their feet and headed for the house. "Hey." Kid smiled at Lou who'd finished making sandwiches and was starting on coffee. "Hi." Lou smiled; she could see the boys coming and leaned in to quickly get a kiss, "Meet me at the barn later." "I have a feeling the barn's gonna be occupied. Boy's are probably going to sleep there." Kid replied with a sad smile. "Your thinking spot?" "Just tell me when." Kid said kissing her back passionately before reaching for a sandwich. "We found him." "And?" Lou said tensing up at the thought that a monster was on the loose. "She got him." Kid shrugged at Lou's look, "He was dead when we got there." "Good." Lou snapped she hated to admit it but the bruises on that woman's face reminded her of the night she'd been raped all over again. "What are you burning for supper tonight?" Jimmy asked coming into the kitchen. He smiled at the disgusted looks he got from both his friends and took a seat. "We're having sandwiches." Lou replied quickly, "And if you want to eat them you'd better have something nice to say next time I cook or you can do all the cooking from now on!" "Yes Lou!" Jimmy reached for a sandwich and munched away. Regardless, Lou was improving with her cooking. He just liked to tease her because he knew Kid would stick up for her. From the intimate little looks those two were sharing he had a feeling they wouldn't be sleeping in the barn tonight. "Where's Cody?" Lou asked not seeing the rider who usually was the first to the dinner table. "Sleeping." Rachel explained. "Said he'd take the second watch over our patient." Lou nodded and put a couple sandwiches on a plate, "Someone want to run this out to them?" A chorus of 'no's' had her rolling her eyes, "Here I'll do it." Kid volunteered rising from where he was sitting. Taking the plate he dropped a kiss on her cheek and headed over to the bunkhouse. "Poor Cody! He really likes Danny." Lou said setting in the chair Kid had just vacated. "I hope she pulls through." "I'm sure she'll pull through. Anyone figure out what exactly they were here for?" Teaspoon asked after a few minutes of silence. "Sure." Darrel said walking back in with Kid he tipped his hat at Rachel and Lou and settled grabbed a chair. "She stepped back into the Deputy shoes she wore at one time." "Danny was a Deputy?" Teaspoon asked. "For who?" "Her father. Richard Metcalfe was the US Marshall for Swift Valley for a number of years. About a year ago both he and his wife were killed very violently. There really wasn't anyone too interested in finding who did it because of Richard's being a half-breed so Danny stepped in to do it." Darrel shook his head, "I shouldn't have let her but she's like explosives when it comes to something like this. Once she starts she doesn't stop until the job's finished." "Why didn't she ask the army? I'm sure they'd have helped her." Buck asked realizing his words sounded false. "It was a civil matter." Darrel laughed humorlessly, "They were too busy trying to kill off every Indian within a hundred mile radius to pay attention to one slip of a girl." "It doesn't seem fair that they would let her do this on her own. She should have had help. More than just you." Noah protested. "If we could have found her brothers she would have had plenty of help. But they've scattered, withdrawn from any contact with anyone." Darrel picked at the table clothe, "I should have known she was setting me up when she said she could handle this. Danny's so stubborn but she's not that big. A kitten thinks she's a tiger." "Between you and Cody you'd think you two should have read her mind." Teaspoon snapped. "She knew what she was doing when she went off by herself. Ain't anyway you could have known he was so close or that she was setting him up." "Still. I'm supposed to be a help for her, not letting some monster try to rape and murder her like he did her mother." Darrel rose and raked a hand through his hair, "Fine sandwich Lou. Thanks." Lou nodded as the big man waked out of the room headed back for the bunkhouse. Shaking her head she faced Teaspoon, "That's two that feel responsible. What are we going to do? Sam finds out what happened, he'll arrest her for sure." "Sam won't arrest her. She was acting in self defense." Teaspoon shook his head, "And no one is gonna say any different." Teaspoon looked at the riders and waited for them to agree. Satisfied he started to eat, his mind on the young woman laying in a bunk in the bunkhouse barely clinging to life. Danny struggled through the darkness that surrounded her like a suffocating mist. It lay heavy upon her, soothing her with whispers of peace and an end to the pain. Something told her it wouldn't work; she had to go back to the pain. It was important that she go back, she had a job to do and she'd do it. Trying to swim through the blackness she could hear two men's voices talking in low tones and frowned. They seemed to be talking about her and how they'd failed her, screaming at them that they weren't to blame she wondered curiously why they didn't seem to hear her when she was right there. Focusing on the voices she forced herself through the shroud about her and slowly blinked as the light hit her face making her head throb. Moaning she turned away from the light without seeing the twin smiles of relief that were turned toward her, feeling like her arms were weighed down with steel bars she struggled with the pain in her head as she tried to move. "I'll get the doctor." Darrel volunteered seeing Danny moving with a dark look at the window. "Take it easy." Cody soothed, "You're okay." Turning her head toward the voice Danny licked her dry lips and tired to speak. A moment later she took a long pull on the water Cody offered her. "How long?" she croaked softly. "You've been out nearly two weeks." Cody replied softly hearing the boys coming, "Darrel went for the doctor." "I don't need a doctor." Danny protested reaching for the water again. She felt like she could sleep for a week, but at least she was where she was supposed to be. Sinking back into the pillow she closed her eyes and fell asleep quickly. "Cody!" Lou walked in followed by everyone, "How is she?" "Sleeping." Cody replied tucking her in, "Says she doesn’t need a doctor." "Well if she's saying that, it's good sign." Teaspoon said following the boys inside. He smiled at Cody who'd stayed close to the bunkhouse the last couple of weeks. He'd taken the few runs he had but Lou had stayed with Danny something Teaspoon was sure was aggravating to the young woman. "Excuse me." Doctor Shaybern hurried into the room and quickly set to work. A moment later he smiled, "I'd say her chances are improving. She needs plenty of rest but she can be moved up to the main house if you like." "I'm sure Kid'll be relieved to hear that." Jimmy said as Lou glared at him. Jimmy knew as well as everyone else Kid had been sleeping in Lou's bunk with her the last couple of weeks. Laughing at Lou's indignant look he slapped Cody on the shoulder and headed back to work. "She won't like it." Darrel said softly. "Danny'll be up moving around within a couple of days then she'll decide where she wants to sleep." "She doesn't need to be walking about with those wounds. Her ribs aren't healed you know." The doctor snapped. "Tell that to the girl." Darrel shrugged, "I've got some mail I want to read." "Okay everyone out. You included Cody, there are chores to be done and you can help out." Teaspoon said leaving Rachel in the room with Lou. "Kid's back tonight ain't he?" Rachel asked quietly. "Yes he is." Lou said sitting down at the table with some mending. So far only Cody'd even noticed the engagement ring on her hand, although everyone had noticed that when Kid was in from a run he slept in her bunk. Lou saw no reason to pretend they weren't involved, in another three months they were getting married. "You don't sound happy with Jimmy's comment." Rachel settled next to Lou and waited. "What's to be happy about?" Lou asked, "He knows Kid and I are involved. He doesn’t need to make jokes about us." "Well I'm sure he wasn't trying to hurt your feelings. Just seems kinda funny is all. You and Kid are always the last ones to bed the first ones up." Rachel shrugged, "They're just making fun cause Kid's not here. Jimmy wouldn't have said that if he was and you know it." "I can protect myself." Lou muttered. "Sure you can. But it's not like they're trying to kill you, just irritate you a little. Don't worry about it too much." Rachel laughed and studied the item Lou was working on. It looked like a woman's blouse but she couldn't be sure. Patting Lou on the shoulder she left the bunkhouse with a soft click of the door. Danny opened her eyes and rolled over, Lou sat alone at the table lost in thought the shirt she'd been working on forgotten. Smiling Danny struggled into a sitting position noting that she wore an oversized shirt. "Lou?" Lou jumped and glanced at the bunk where the sound had come from. "Danny! You want me to get the doctor?" "NO!" Danny shook her head, "I hate doctors. Where is everyone?" "Out fixing fence. They'll be back for supper." "How come you're not on a run?" Danny asked and noted the woman's blush. "You tell any of 'em?" "Tell them what?" Lou asked hesitantly. "The last run you made was really your last." Danny said swinging her legs over the edge of the bunkhouse. "No." Lou shook her head, "With everything that's been happening we just thought it best to wait." "You set a date yet?" Danny asked reaching for the nearest pair of pants. "August 20th. What are you doing?" "Getting up. I’ll go insane in bed." "Doc said you need your rest." "I've been resting." Danny replied quickly sliding the pants on. "I'm not going to go anywhere I just need to be somewhere other than that bed." Lou nodded she knew how it felt to be stuck in bed when you wanted to move around. Lately though she preferred spending more time in bed than out, but that had more to do with who was in bed with her than laziness. "I've got a bucket of potatoes to peel. You want to help?" "Want to?" Danny laughed softly instantly regretting it as her ribs screamed a protest. "No. But I will." Lou smiled and rose to grab the bucket of potatoes. Within a few minutes they had the bucket peeled and Danny had learned a bit about Cody from Lou. If Lou wondered what the questions about her friend were about she never said, just answered them quickly and honestly. As they lit the lamps Lou started supper while Danny gave in to her body's orders and went back to lie down. Covering her with the blanket she quickly dozed off. Kid's tired muscles protested as he rode into Rock Creek and swung down, glancing around he noted the boys must have gone out fixing fence because the buckboard was gone. Hurrying to take care of Katy he headed for the bunkhouse intent on having a brief nap before supper. Grinning as Lou stepped out of the bunkhouse he watched her smile at him and hurry down the steps. Swinging her in his arms he kissed her quickly before setting her down, "So what have you been doing while I was gone?" He teased softly. She smelled like fresh bread so he figured she'd tried baking. "Cooking." Lou grumbled well naturedly, "Danny was up today." "Hey that's fantastic. What did the doctor say?" "We could move her up to the big house. Danny wasn't too thrilled at that suggestion." Lou replied stepping through the door ahead of Kid. "I take it you weren't either?" Kid asked. "Cause I know I'm not." "I could have killed him. But I'll settle for torturing Jimmy for his smart mouth instead." Lou confirmed quickly setting the table and glancing at the bunk where Danny slept. She'd been muttering in her sleep earlier and from the way she'd struggled with the blankets it hadn't been a pleasant dream. "She say anything about what happened?" Kid asked softly not wanting to wake her up if she was sleeping. "No. Asked a lot of questions about Cody though." Lou smiled at the thought. "And she helped me finish most of the small work on my wedding dress. Remind me to never get that brilliant idea to sew anything ever again." Kid laughed and set his bags down on top of his trunk the started when Danny sat up right reaching for something in her haste to face whatever had awaken her. Probably her gun he thought. "Damn it Kid! Don't go scaring people half to death." Danny muttered trying to shake off the demons from her sleep. Smiling at him she shook her head, "Sorry." "No harm done. I'm just glad you're not armed." Kid replied watching the shadows in her eyes fade to be replaced by a familiar detachment that he remembered. "How are you feeling?" "Tired." Danny replied bending her leg and resting her arm on her bent knee. "I feel like I should be sleeping a month of Sundays but I can't bring myself to sleep that much. You want your bunk back?" "Naw, if you're comfortable keep it." Kid replied moving to help Lou finish setting the table and putting supper on the table. "I'll ring the supper bell." Lou volunteered, "Cody's probably gonna run anyone in front of the door over so just stay out of his way." Smiling Danny nodded her agreement and lay back down. She hadn't been lying when she said she was exhausted, her body needed rest to heal. Sinking in to a deep sleep she rolled away from Kid and curled into a ball to sleep and wake in spurts. Somehow she had to deal with the nightmare she was living. The only way to do that was to confront the ghosts, something she couldn't do here. Pushing that thought away she sought solace in sleep and found it as she dreamed of a handsome man with a killer grin. Part Two It took nearly a month for Danny's ribs to heal enough for the doctor to give her a clean bill of health, something that she had mixed feelings over. Watching the boys outside she smiled sadly; she knew she had to go. Darrel had asked her earlier when they were leaving and she hadn't answered him. When the wind shifted they'd be riding out and Danny knew it would break her heart. She'd spent plenty of evenings with Cody just sitting talking on the porch swing and knew he'd be disappointed but there wasn't any other way. She had a job she had to finish and a life to get on living. Hiding behind friends wasn't her style and if she couldn't face the ghosts from the pasts how could she expect anyone to want to have a future with her. "So when are you leaving?" Cody asked softly taking a seat next to her on the swing. Starting she glanced at him and away tears filling her eyes, "Am I that easy to read?" "For someone who cares, yes." Cody replied sadly. Something pulled at the young woman who'd changed his life so drastically in the short time he'd known her. The thought of her leaving tore at his soul but he wouldn't force her to stay, in the end it would kill any feelings they had. "When the wind shifts." Danny replied leaning against him. "Day or two at the most." “We’ll miss you around here. You've brought something with you that wasn't here before." Cody said wrapping an arm around her shoulders and holding her. "Oh it was here." Danny looked up at him, "Kid knew it, and Lou knew it. They felt it. Its just that this was your time, our time." Danny replied softy before turning her attention back to the boys working with a new horse. "They look happy together." "They are happy. In a way I almost want them to be miserable." Cody shrugged sheepishly, "It's selfish but they're happy and my world's falling apart." Danny smiled sadly. "You want to go for a walk?" "I'm supposed to be helping them." Cody said with a grin, "But what the hey, I'll let Rachel know we're going for a walk. That way they won't send out a search party if they can't find us." "I'll just grab my jacket." Danny said rising and stepping in side to grab the jacket Cody'd given her. Jimmy glanced up and frowned, "Now where's he off to?" "Who?" Kid asked ducking out of the way of flying hooves. "Cody. He's taking off with Danny." Jimmy replied quickly. "Let him be." Darrel said from where he sat watching the horse galloping around as Noah picked himself up off the ground. "Darrel he's supposed to be helping." Jimmy protested. This was getting worse by the minute Kid's mind wasn't on his job, Lou hadn't take a run in weeks and now Cody was off strolling about the countryside. "We're leaving soon, let them have some quiet time alone." Darrel turned to Jimmy, "He knows it and so does she. Let them be. If you want help I'll pitch in and work with that mustang." Jimmy shook his head and stepped into the corral as Buck caught the bay stallion and held him while Jimmy swung up. Cody watched Danny as they sat under a tree next to the pond, "Where are you going from here?" "Arizona." Danny replied. "There's someone there I have to see. She needs to know what happened, its one of those loose ends I have to tie up." "Was Breed the last one?" Cody asked softly. He couldn't bring himself to ask the question that he knew everyone wanted to know. What would he do? How would he react to the truth if Breed had raped her? "There's one more." Danny confirmed. "But Breed was the nastiest." Glancing at Cody she saw the look he head and shook her head, "No he didn't. Another minute and maybe, but the fool hadn't taken his gun off so I took a risk." She answered the question she knew he’d never ask. Cody glanced at her then away to watch the sun's reflection on the water a tiny feeling of joy in his heart, "Everyone was kind worried about it. I blame myself for not being there with you." "You aren't to blame Cody. The bruises have faded, the bones have healed now I just have to deal with the ghosts up here." Tapping her head, Danny met Cody's eyes. "How could you know what Breed was? Even I didn't know what made him tick. Breed was a product of life; he'd never have given it a second thought. Don't blame yourself Cody; if anyone is to blame it's me. I could have said something, I could have told you what I was thinking. But I didn't, and I paid the price." Cody studied her expression and saw the earnest pleading in her eyes and smiled, "How'd you ever get to be so smart?" Danny smiled and leaned over to kiss him, pulling back she reach up to run her fingers through his hair, "Trial and error darling, trial and error." She waited for him to push her away when he didn't she leaned back into him and kissed him again, this time he responded and she moaned as she felt him take control of the kiss, his hand splayed on her back. The feeling of grass beneath her should have sent fear through her body, but instead she smiled softly at Cody when he pulled away from her to work on the buttons on her shirt. When he paused and looked at her she nodded, "I'm sure Cody. I don't know what tomorrow might bring. We only have today, and today is you,” she whispered softly pulling him down toward her. Darrel slipped away from the boys as Lou came out and started talking to Kid about something in quiet tones. He followed the path down to the pond where he guessed Danny and Cody had gone. Seeing Danny kissing Cody he smiled when Cody lay her down on the grass Darrel shook his head and turned to head back to the corrals to help out with the horses. Sitting wrapped in Cody's arms Danny sighed contentedly, "Supper'll be ready soon. You want to head back?" She asked snuggling against him. "No. I'd rather spend time with you." Cody replied. Since he'd fallen for the young woman in his arms he'd been spending less time worrying over his stomach and more time thinking of her. Danny smiled and rested her hands on his forearms that were around her. Silently they sat watching the fading light from the sunlight before Cody rose and offered a hand. Taking it Danny fell into step with him as they headed back to the bunkhouse, "It's a beautiful country around here. You're lucky you get to see this all the time." "Yeah." Cody glanced around at the dusk lights touching of the area turning it a burnt orange. "In a way I'm glad that I got to be here with the boys and Lou. I never realized before how much I longed to have a family, now I've got one it's hard to believe I ever lived without one." "Family is important." Danny agreed, "But so are friends." Cody smiled as they came into sight of the bunkhouse. "I've got both here." Stopping Danny faced Cody, "Just remember I'm your friend to." Cody laughed, and slung an arm around her shoulders to turn her to the bunkhouse. "Honey you're more than just a friend. Come on I'm starving." Jimmy glanced up hearing laughter, "Sounds like they're back." "Sounds like." Darrel said as the door opened and Danny came in still laughing. "What's so funny?" "Nothing." Danny replied setting in an empty chair as Cody settled next to her. The conversation around the table drifted for a few minutes before Darrel asked softly, "So when are we leaving Danny?" Danny froze, she'd been happy up until that moment. Glancing angrily at Darrel she replied softly, "Tomorrow I guess. Sooner we get to Arizona the better." Feeling Cody tense next to her she glanced at him and smiled shakily, "Rita needs to know." Darrel glared at his saddle partner, "What the hell do you mean Rita needs to know? Why would you go out of your way to tell that woman anything?” "Because she was my mother's sister Darrel!" Danny snapped back suddenly. "Oh that's just brilliant. Rita will be overjoyed to have you show up. Last time I heard from her she was ranting about your mother selling out to some filthy Indian." Darrel tossed his fork into his plate and went to rise. "Really? Considering I’m aware of how she feels, I have no intention of staying any longer than ten minutes! Unfortunately I’m not like my aunt. I believe she has a right to know, even if she could give a damn." Danny rose and faced him evenly. Darrel stared at her for a moment then bowed, "By all means we'll go to Arizona. Then I'm going home." He snapped. "You do that." Danny snapped sitting down with a furious glare at her saddle partner. Turning to Cody she asked him to pass the biscuits and ignored Darrel for the rest of the meal. After dishes were done she slipped out to the barn to pay some attention to her horse, she didn't notice Cody or Darrel following her. "Danny?" Darrel stepped into the barn and sighed, she stood patting Blackheart and wondered why he'd attacked he like that. Right now she was clinging to normalcy like a lifeline. "I'm kinda busy Darrel." Danny replied resting her forehead on the horse's neck. "What do you want?" "I shouldn't have said anything against Rita. I know she's family but she's never liked you. I just don't want you to get hurt is all.” Darrel apologized as he rested against the barn door. "She can't hurt me." Danny whispered, "I have never given her that much power over me so don't worry about it." Cody paused by the corral, he wanted to talk to Danny before they left and he figured now was the time to do it, if he wanted to be uninterrupted. Making love with her earlier hadn't been planned, but he was glad they'd done it. Somehow he had to make her aware of how much she meant to him, if they weren't granted a lifetime then at least they could have a few days. When Darrel headed back to the bunkhouse Cody slipped into the barn and up to Danny where she was leaving the horse's stall. "Danny?" "Yes Cody?" Danny noted the way Cody was studying her and smiled. Stepping into his embrace she felt the tears choking her and pushed them aside, she wanted to spend the remaining hours here with him in his arms. She didn't know if they'd ever have more than this but for now this was enough. "Where can we go?" "It's a little chilly at the pond." Cody replied. "We can't stay out here, Kid and Lou come out here all the time. There's a shack behind the Marshall's office. It's for him when he stays in town. Considering how Teaspoon likes to spend his time in the jail, we could go there." Cody whispered. "Lets go." Danny said patting her horse once they headed out into the darkness unmindful of the figure standing on the porch watching them leaving. When the shadow entered the bunkhouse neither one noticed he'd even been there. Time was running out for them. Lou shifted in her bunk and glanced over at Cody's bunk. It was empty frowning she slipped out of bed and noted Teaspoon was sleeping in the empty bunk that Rachel had had the boys bring in for Danny to sleep in. Nudging Kid she tugged on his arm when he opened his eyes sleepily. Rising Kid followed Lou out to the barn still half asleep, "You know where Cody is?" "Darrel said he saw him walking into town with Danny." Kid yawned, "Why?" "We have one empty bunk inside and Teaspoon's asleep in the bunkhouse." Lou replied as they entered the barn. Dragging him into the loft she smiled and settled on the blankets they used when they came out here. Tonight she wanted him but she'd settle for talking seeing how tired he was, "I think Cody's in love." "Cody's always in love." Kid replied laying down, "Give it a week and he'll be chasing some other skirt." "I don't think so Kid." Lou insisted. "I think this is different. He hasn't been eating like he normally is." Kid stared at Lou amazed at her words, "What do you mean he hasn't been eating?" He was late for supper tonight, not to mention that his shirt was on inside out." Lou smiled curling up in Kid's lap. "I think he's fallen hard." "Oh god." Kid groaned smothering a laugh, "She's leaving I sure hope you're wrong." "We won't know until after she leaves will we." Lou said laughing softly as she went to work on Kid's long johns, slowly peeling them off his body, "You wide awake now?" She asked kissing the exposed skin as she waited for his response. "Definitely." Kid laughed softly rolling over to pin Lou under him and bending to kiss her passionately. Danny saddled her horse and led him from the barn as Cody stood silently watching her. "You take care of yourself Cody." She ordered softly. The first rays of sunlight had started peeking over the horizon and she wanted to leave before everyone was awake. "You take care Danielle." Cody dropped a kiss on her lips and stepped back. "Keep yourself safe." Danny smiled, "I'll see you again." She touched his face and stepped up into the saddle, "Tell Lou I said congratulations when they announce things." Cody nodded and watched as Darrel led his horse out of the barn and offered his hand to shake, "Thanks for everything." "You're welcome. Watch out for her for me." Cody asked softly, "Keep her safe." "I'll do my best.” Darrel said and swung into the saddle. Turning they waved a final time and trotted off. Cody stood watching them until he couldn't see them any longer. He didn't even notice when Kid came out to get started on cleaning the barn, "Morning Cody." Kid murmured. He'd just got back from the barn a couple of hours ago, but he wasn't going to admit it especially not to Cody who'd be teasing him about it for weeks. Cody just nodded and turned away from the trail to follow Kid into the barn. He'd help him clean out the barn; he'd heard that working was good for a broken heart. Danny paused on the road and glanced back, she knew she couldn't see him from this distance but she could always hope. Angrily she brushed at the lone tear that tracked down her cheek and sat for a moment listening to the beating of her heart. "Danny." Darrel's quiet voice drew her back to the trail and she spurred her stallion into a gallop racing past him and away from the little voice that called her back. Shaking his head Darrel followed quickly, he knew she was hurting but there wasn't anything he could do to help her out. Maybe time would help, but for now they had things to do and he realized once again her mind would focus on the work at hand then she’d drift for a while. Part Three Lou glared at Cody in frustration, Teaspoon had sent the Kid with him on a run and she’d tagged along, refusing to allow Kid out of her sight. The way Cody’d been acting Kid would wind up spending their wedding day in jail with Cody or because he'd killed him. “I’m telling you Cody you’re not supposed to be dragging me along to pick out a wedding present. You can do it on your own.” Lou snapped as Cody pulled her along toward the store. “It’s your present, why shouldn’t you have a say in what you’re getting?” Cody asked mildly. He didn’t really want to be shopping, he’d gotten a letter from Danny the other day and he hadn’t had a chance to read it yet. He wished he were in his room at the hotel reading that letter. “Cody just pick out something and have it wrapped. Don’t forget to meet us for supper at the hotel tonight. I’m going to go find Kid. He at least makes sense.” Lou whirled and hurried down the sidewalk in search of the Kid. Shaking his head Cody turned back to the mercantile and sighed. Pushing the door open he paused, he could’ve sworn that someone was watching him but glancing around he didn’t see anyone so he kept going. He’d get Lou and Kid’s wedding present then have something to eat, retire to read his letter and wait for morning when they could head back. Danny stared out the window at the familiar figure entering the store and swallowed, her heart beat against her ribs and a little of the weight she'd been carrying around drifted away. Glancing at the woman next to her she couldn’t help smiling. “What are you so happy about all of a sudden?” Mary Beth Ludkey asked. She’d made peace with the young woman who had traveled with her husband for so long and understood the need the pair had to watch over each other. Though they loved each other, it was more a sibling love then a romantic love. In a way she wondered why she hadn't seen it before, neither her husband nor Danny had ever even given the barest hint that they were involved in anything other than a close friendship. “He’s here.” Danny whispered fingering the cuff of the dress she was having fitted. She had finished what she'd set out to do, now it was time to go back to Rock Creek and see if Cody still felt the way she did. Considering the number of letters she’d received as well as sent out she wouldn’t be surprised if he did, but she wanted to be sure. “Well go see him then.” Mary Beth laughed, “Change quickly and getting going.” “Thanks.” Stepping off the stool Danny quickly changed into her traveling dress and grabbed her shawl as she headed out the door. “Would you finish the alterations and we’ll need three more dresses in the same size as well.” Mary Beth instructed, “Also wrap this one and put in some hair ribbons. I have a feeling she’s going to be wearing it sooner than later.” Sighing Danny scanned the room and spotted Cody staring at a shelf of books a distant look in his eyes. Smiling she walked over to stand next to him and reach up for the first hardcover book she could reach. “Books don’t make good wedding presents.” She whispered and felt him jerk at the words. Jerking in surprise Cody glanced at the dark haired woman next to him and smiled slightly, “What does then?” he asked softly, refraining from pulling her into his arms and kissing her senseless the way he wanted to. The shopkeeper would probably have a heart attack. “Well considering how Kid and Lou are, you might want to get them matching headstalls with silver trim?” Danny suggested, “Or you could get them some linens for their new house.” “Linens would be better than headstalls. Knowing my luck Lou’d kill me.” Cody replied and glanced at what she was flipping through. “Why are you looking at books?” Danny smiled. “I wasn't too sure about coming over here after I got in the store. It seemed like the easiest way to break the ice.” “You want to go for coffee?” Cody asked, “Before I get us in trouble. The way I feel I could make love to you right here and that might create a stir in here.” “When you’re right, you’re right.”Danny grinned, “Come on lets grab something for them and get out of here before I do something that would get me thrown in jail.” Cody sat in his chair in the hotel dining room and laughed as Danny explained that she’d spent two days talking Mary Beth into coming with her. “I swear all I wanted was for her to ride with me since Darrel’s out at his brother’s place. She insisted she wouldn’t travel with me as long as I was dressed like a boy.” “You don’t look like any boy I’ve ever seen.” Cody declared with a laugh at her flush. Frowning Lou paused and turned back to go inside only to run into Kid who’d been following her out. They’d decided to go down to the barn since Cody hadn’t come back to the hotel yet and as quiet as he’d been lately they figured he might have gone down there. “You forget something Hon?” Kid asked catching her before she stumbled back. “No.” Lou shook her head, “I just saw Cody.” “Where?” Kid asked quickly glancing around. “The dining room.” Lou replied heading back that way. The stopped in the doorway of the dining room and watched Cody laughing at something the woman he was sitting with was saying. The pair were sitting close together their heads bent over the table and the conversation they were having. “Hey isn’t that Danny?” Kid asked studying the woman. “It is.” Lou smiled at Kid. “It’s good to see him smiling again. He really took it hard when she left.” “Come on lets join them for a few minutes.” Kid suggested quickly. “We have to head back in the morning.” “Cody’s gonna be hell to get out of here.” Lou commented as they approached the table. “Do you mind of Lou and Kid join us?” Cody asked spotting his friends coming toward them. “Not at all. It’ll be nice to visit with them again. Mary Beth will probably turn up shortly as well.” “The one that you don’t like.” “Oh I’ve no problem with her. She just had to get over her jealousy. Figured I was after Darrel.” Danny smiled at Cody and shifted her attention to Lou and Kid who’d arrived at the table. “Hi! Join us for coffee?” “Sure.” Kid sat down next to Cody and Lou sat across from him. After they’d placed their orders and the waitress had departed they quickly fell into a conversation that carried them to suppertime. Only the gentle reminder of the waitress had them glancing about. “Miss?” Danny smiled, “We had reservations for dinner tonight, is it okay if we just stay here at this table or were you going to move us? “How many were in your party?” “Well there were two reservations.” Danny said glancing at Kid and Lou, “Between the two there are five of us.” “No. You can stay here. I’m sure it won’t be a problem.” Turning back to the conversation Lou asked Danny, “So where are you headed?” “I was headed for Rock Creek.” Danny smiled at Cody, “Figured I’d stop in a say hi to everyone.” “Sure.” Kid said with a grin as a woman walked up to the table. “Danielle!” Mary Beth shook her head; she’d spent the better part of the afternoon in their room waiting for her to come back. Thankful that the girl had gotten out of her mood, she couldn’t stay mad at her. “How come you didn’t come get me?” She remembered what it was like to see her husband after a long absence. “I figured you’d be down sometime.” Danny replied. “Besides you said you wanted to rest.” Rolling her eyes heavenward she shook her head and took a seat. “That I did.” After placing her order and introductions the conversation got going again. "So are you having the ceremony in Rock Creek?" Danny asked quietly of Lou. "Yes we are. It isn't going to matter too much where we have it, sooner or later we have to go home so I figured to get the explanations out of the way." Lou shrugged and grinned, "Besides we're going to honeymoon in Saint Jo where my siblings are. Spend some time with them before Kid goes back to work." "You must find it frustrating." Danny said. "You're off the runs, is there something that Teaspoon will allow you to do?" "Sure I can work with Rachel." Lou shrugged and glanced at Kid who was busy talking to Cody, "But I have a feeling I won't be working too long anyway." "Oh?" Mary Beth asked softly. "You planning on starting a family right away?" "Yes actually." Lou smiled, "We are planning on having a baby right away. Some of the issues we had are resolved so I want a child as soon as possible." "He going back home if war breaks out?" Danny asked softly. "No." Kid said. "We're going west if war breaks out." Danny smiled and glanced at Cody for a moment before turning back to Lou. She knew Cody would probably join the army, how could he not when he was a thrill seeker. Shaking off any thought of him leaving she listened as Lou talked about her wedding dress and some of the things she'd been given as wedding presents. Laughing at the thought of someone giving her knitting needles Danny realized she envied the woman next to her. "Do you knit?" Mary Beth asked a slight frown puckering her brow. "No." Lou shook her head quickly; "I've never knitted a stitch in my life." "Knitting is easy." Danny said, "But I wouldn't want to do it for long. Too dangerous." Cody laughed, "This from a woman who was packing a pair of colts when we met." "Colt's can't stab you if you sit on them." Danny replied quickly. Laughing the group changed the topic while they waited for their dinner to arrive. After eating Kid rose and offered Lou his hand to help her up, "Well since we're leaving in the morning. We'd best get a move on. Good night Danny, Mrs. Ludkey." Kid nodded at the women, "Cody don't forget you're coming with us in the morning." "Oh I almost forgot I have to wait for a package from Captain Burrows. He's got a delivery for Fort Sedgwick." Cody said quickly, "I won't be going with you." "Just see that you get yourself home within a few days or you're going to be in hot water Cody. You can't miss our wedding." Lou ordered as she followed Kid from the room. "Well, I think I'll turn in myself." Mary Beth smothered a yawn, "Good night Mr. Cody." Rising she left the restaurant and headed up the stairs. "Shall we?" Cody asked rising. After paying the bill, he offered his arm to Danny who took it and headed outside into the night air. They strolled up the street toward the church just enjoying being together again. "How long you going to be in Rock Creek?" he asked her suddenly as they sat down on the church steps. Leaning back against the steps on her elbows, Danny stretched out her legs and crossed the ankles, "Depends on you." "What do you mean?" Cody asked hopefully. Maybe she'd stay if he asked her to. "Depends on how long you want me around." Danny replied. "I love you and I think you love me. With everything going on with the war and things so unsettled a future is pretty uncertain, but I want whatever I can have with you Cody. I’d rather spend a day with you then a lifetime alone. Maybe doesn’t make too much sense but its how I feel. I can’t help it if my heart tells me it needs you.” Danny smiled and shrugged, “I’d rather be happy than miserable and I’ve already had a taste of how miserable I could be without you. I don’t want to go through that again.” "It makes perfect sense to me, its how I feel.” Cody brushed a lock of hair out of her eyes,"No one really knows what tomorrow will bring, or for that matter how much time we have. I'd rather spend a lifetime with you and the way I feel, than one day without. The first time I saw you, there was something about you that scared me. You were self-sufficient, you didn't seem to need anyone and I think I knew in my heart I wanted you to need me. Don't get me wrong here, I'm not saying you shouldn't do what you think is right, I'm just saying that I wanted you to want me." Danny nodded at what he was saying, "It's funny, I never realized how intimidating I could be until Darrel said I wasn't too friendly looking and you ran from me. When I stopped you in Silverfern all I wanted was your name, you know just to meet you. Then in Rock Creek when you tried to hide from me I wasn't too sure if it was just because I'd killed two men in front of you or there was something about me personally." "I'm still hearing about Rock Creek." Cody laughed, "The boys haven't given up teasing me about getting our gun belts stuck." "Well you do have to admit it was funny." Danny grinned. "How often do you have a gunslinger under you like that?" "For one night a couple of months back. She seduced me then rode out in the morning." Cody said laying a hand over his heart and watching Danny laugh. "You sure? Seems you seduced me." Danny teased and moved closer to him. "How long you gonna be on this run for that Captain fella?" She asked as she laid her head on his shoulder and snuggled close to him in the darkness. "Three days. It’ll take me a day or two to get to the fort, then I have to head to Rock Creek. It’s a day and a half from Fort Sedgwick. Why?” "Why not make it a week, we'll wait here and ride back to Rock Creek with you?" Danny suggested as Cody wrapped his arms around her. "I could do that. We'd still get to Lou and Kid's wedding with a day or two to spare, depending on how hard your friend can ride." Cody replied as a column of soldiers went by. "Mary Beth? She doesn't ride." Danny replied. "Oh not because she can't, but because she refuses to. Says a lady shouldn't ride anything that doesn't have wheels." "What does she do?" Cody asked, curious about what the woman did with her ideas about how ladies should act. "She'll ride. I promise she'll ride." Danny smothered a yawn, "I didn't realize it was so late. We should be heading back don't you think?" "Yep." Rising Cody helped Danny up and they started back to the hotel. Wordlessly they climbed the stairs and stopped outside of Danny's door. Staring at the door Danny shook her head, "You want to come in?" "I'd love to. But what about Mrs. Ludkey?" "We'd her wake for sure." Danny whispered regretfully. "Come on." Tugging gently Cody led her to his room, thankful that he'd though to get a separate room from Kid and Lou. Closing the door softly behind them he tugged on her until she was standing against him while he leaned on the door. Pulling the pins from her hair he let them drop to the floor as her long hair came tumbling around her shoulders. Danny watched the longing in Cody's eyes and smiled standing on her toes she reach for him and moaned when he pulled her closer to deepen the kiss she'd started. Feeling his fingers working on the buttons on her dress she pulled back enough to start unbuttoning his clothes and pushing them off his body urgently. She needed to be with him, her body cried out for his touch and she knew nothing would ever feel the same as when they made love. Laying her on the bed Cody followed her down feeling overwhelmed at the prospect of loving the young woman in his arms. Smiling into her eyes he leaned down to gently kiss her lips. Kid watched Lou brush out her hair and smiled. "You want to see if Cody's coming for breakfast?" "Do you mean do I want to wake him up?" Lou turned with an easy smile, "No. But will I? Yes. I want to make sure he's awake for that run he said he had." "I have a feeling that run has more to do with Danny being here than an actual run." Kid said pulling Lou into a warm embrace. "But I remember what its like to need someone so desperately that it seems so important to take an extra day on a run to spend time with them." "You loose that urgency?" Lou asked with a saucy grin stepping up against him. "Nope. Just got worse." Kid replied kissing her and stepping back to let her exit the room before him. They stopped next to Cody's room and knocked loudly on the door. Danny jerked upright in bed at the pounding, "What?" she demanded turning to Cody who was still sleeping. Lou glanced at Kid at the sound of Danny's voice. "We're just making sure Cody's awake. You want to join us for breakfast?" Lou called hesitantly. She tried to keep from grinning at the sounds coming from the room. She doubted Cody was awake yet, good thing they’d come by. “I’ll bet he’s still sleeping.” Kid whispered in her ear and she nodded with a grin. Groaning Danny flopped back into the covers and grabbed the sheet. Tossing the blanket over Cody's still sleeping figure she walked to the door and opened it a crack. Flushing slightly at Lou's look she pushed her hair out of her face and smiled shakily, "Sure. Give us ten minutes." "We'll see you in the dining room." Kid said pulling Lou along as he headed downstairs. He could feel her shaking as she laughed. "Louise." he whispered. "Oh I'm gonna enjoy teasing him about this." Lou laughed as they headed into the dining room. "Finally the tables are turned." Kid laughed, "I can just hear Jimmy, 'what do you mean he was still sleeping when someone answered his door? You must have caught him with his pants down!” Cody groaned as he heard Lou and Kid's voice talking to Danny, shifting he pushed the blanket out of his face and glanced at the door. Danny stood there wrapped in a sheet telling them they'd be downstairs in ten minutes. Feeling this body respond to the picture Cody shook his head, ten minutes wasn't long enough. Closing the door Danny turned back to the bed to see Cody watching her with a crooked smile. "We'd better get downstairs before Mary Beth comes looking for me." She said walking back to the bed. Sitting on the edge of it with her back to him she glanced around for her clothes only to give a shriek of laughter when he pulled her down to the mattress and shifted so he was lying next to her. "So we have ten minutes to get ready and get downstairs?" Cody whispered trailing a line of kisses down her neck and shoulder. "Give or take a couple." Danny whispered arching under his touch. "They'll wait." Cody declared rolling so Danny was lying on top of him. He couldn't hide his reaction to her and she didn’t appear to mind. "Definitely." Danny agreed kissing him back. “If not we’ll just eat alone.” She stated between kisses, her mind wandering to what his hands were doing. Fifteen minutes later Kid was looking at Lou with a smirk, "Told you." Kid indicated the still empty chairs of the couple that were supposed to have joined them five minutes before. She must have woken him up." Lou replied as Mary Beth came into the dining room. "At least her friend is around.” "Have either of you seen Danny?" Mary Beth asked setting down at the table with the young couple, "She didn't come to the room last night. I'm a little concerned." "She's with Cody." Lou replied and jerked her head at the doorway. Cody was coming in alone, he smiled at them as he headed their way and Lou waited for him to get there. "Morning." Kid acknowledged Cody's appearance. "Morning.” Cody settled into the chair and reach for the coffee. "You get plenty of sleep last night?" Lou asked innocently as Danny hurried into the room and sat down, her hair in a thick braid down her back. Her sleeves unbuttoned and the pins for her hair still in her hands. "Enough." Cody replied hiding behind his coffee while Danny just flushed and glanced at Mary Beth. "Danielle where were you?" Mary Beth asked seeing the look that past between them she smothered a groan. "Out." Danny replied as she ordered breakfast. Thinking it would be a good idea to avoid any and all conversation she hid behind the paper after tucking her hair pins into her purse, she’d finish putting her hair up later. "When do you pick up your package for the Captain?" Kid asked Cody who looked faintly uncomfortable, but not regretful. "Nine." Cody replied disgusted, "It's a late start but at least I'll be able to get things in motion and reach Fort Sedgwick within a few days." "You going to make it back in time for the wedding?" Lou asked suddenly. Fort Sedgwick was a three-day round-trip run from here. "Yeah, I'll get back the day before the wedding. It's cutting it close but I'll make it." Cody replied he'd already worked out which trail he was taking. He'd intercept the rider that was headed that way and pass off the package, come back for Danny and Mary Beth then head out for Rock Creek. "Good. Otherwise I'll have to kill you." Lou growled before turning to answer Kid who'd asked about their trip back. Danny smiled at Cody and tried not to look at Lou or she'd die of embarrassment. She felt kind of bad for getting caught in her birthday suit in Cody's room but she didn't regret what they'd been doing. She'd take things as they came, besides she didn’t think Lou would judge her too harshly considering Lou had shared a room with Kid last night and they weren’t married yet! After a quiet breakfast Lou and Kid rose, "We've got to get back to Rock Creek. We'll let Teaspoon know you're coming in late." "Thanks. I hope this run's uneventful. I'm not to anxious to be late for that wedding." Cody replied leaning back in his chair as Mary Beth leaned over to talk to Danny. "Why aren't we going with them?" Mary Beth asked softly. "Are we going on the stage?" "No. We're going with Cody." Danny replied reaching for her coffee, she nudged Cody's boot under the table and smiled when he raised an eyebrow and grinned at her. "Have a good trip Kid, Lou." Danny said with an innocent smile. Shaking their heads the pair walked out leaving the trio sitting at the table. When they reached the barn they saddled up and headed home. Danny sat in her room and patiently let Mary Beth fix her hair, Cody was due back this afternoon, then they'd be leaving in the morning. She hadn't been listening to Mary Beth drone on about something to do with whatever he was babbling about so when the woman whacked her with the brush she jerked and glared at the woman as she rubbed the wounded spot. "What was that for?" "You didn't hear a word I said did you?" Mary Beth replied with a shake of her head. "Girl you're going to get yourself in trouble one of these days. I asked you why we didn't go with Kid and Lou." "Because I want to spend time with Cody." Danny replied. She smiled softly, "I've missed him." "I'm sure you have." Mary Beth replied as a knock sounded on the door. Grabbing the blanket on the back of chair she covered Danny and went to answer the door. Smiling at the smiling man in front of her she stepped back, "Come in." Glancing up Danny rose and rushed to hug the man standing in the doorway, "Cody!" "Danielle you're not dressed!" Mary Beth protested. Shaking her head she slipped from the room as the pair embraced, suddenly she wished Darrel was there but she'd see him soon when they got to Rock Creek. An hour later she stood glaring at a black mare, "You expect me to ride that?" "Yes I do." Danny replied with a chuckle, "Unless you would prefer to wait for the stage that is late." "What I do for you." Mary Beth replied swinging into the saddle and facing Danny, "Now what are you riding. And don't say you're doubling with him or I'll smack you." Mary Beth muttered. "No, she's gonna ride this horse." Cody said leading a familiar black stallion forward. He'd seen him in the lot at the express station and taken him out along with his fresh mount. When the stationmaster asked him he'd said he knew the owner, and the horse might be stolen. Figured it would make things easier to get him back to Danny if they thought he'd been stolen. Since the stallion had been brought in separately the stationmaster hadn't said a word. "Did you talk to the Captain about passing off the package?" Danny said patting her horse with affection. Giving Cody a quick kiss she swung up and settled on him, her skirts were a little uncomfortable to ride in but she figured she'd get the hang of it in a couple of strides. "Yep. He said as long as it reaches the party it's supposed to he don't see no reason why it can't be a day late if need be." Cody shrugged as he mounted his mare. "You ready?" "As I'll ever be." Danny replied as the trio headed out. Teaspoon glared at Lou and Kid, "I thought you said he'd be here. The boy's running late." "He said he would be Teaspoon. It's not our fault he's running late." Lou snapped back Teaspoon was getting on her already frayed nerves. "He'd better get here and fast. You shouldn't have left him in Fort Benson." Teaspoon snapped as they sat eating breakfast. Tossing her hands in the air Lou snapped her mouth shut and shook her head, "Don't we have work to do?" "Yeah. Henderson's fence is down again! Offered you boys to help him fix it. Best get on over there and get to work." Teaspoon replied noting the furious look in both Kid and Lou's eyes. He hadn't meant to be hard on them but Cody was late even for him. Considering the way the boy had been acting he didn't know what to think, he wondered if maybe he had gone looking for Danny. Rising the boys and Lou hurried out of the bunkhouse a few seconds before a shadow fell across the floor, "Morning Marshall." The familiar voice of Darrel Ludkey boomed into Teaspoon who waved him in. "Morning Darrel. You passing through town?" "Meeting my wife here. I'm not sure when she's supposed to be here, so I came down to see if you mind if I hung around a few days." Darrel replied quickly, “She left me a note saying they were coming this way.” "Not at all boy. Everyone's headed out to fix fence so you can tag along or just take it easy here for a spell." Teaspoon offered. "I've got work to do in town." "I'll just set a spell. My horse is as tired as I am. We just got in." Darrel explained. Laughing Mary Beth watched Danny and Cody as they tried to outdo each other in the water. "Come on you two. It's going to be lunch soon and I don't know about you but I'm in a hurry to eat something other than your cooking." Danny splashed Cody and turned to head for the shore, laughing she felt Cody's arms around her waist and wiggled in his grasp, feeling his hands touching the underside of her breasts through the wet cotton she groaned, "Why didn't I get rid of her when I had the chance." she whispered. Cody laughed, "Yeah why didn’t you. Come on you’re driving me to distraction and as much as I hate to agree with her, we should get going before Teaspoon sends out a search party.” Wringing her hair out Danny grabbed a blanket and wrapped it around her shoulders. From the way she was shimmying Cody knew she was stripping down, when she grabbed her white blouse and a petticoat he nearly groaned. When she dropped the blanket he swore softly and faced his horse. She was right; it was hard not to be able to touch her when they had an audience. Cursing softly he shook his head, now he knew how Kid felt when he was around Lou. A minute later he swung into the saddle and glanced at the women, "From here it's a ten minute hard run to the bunkhouse. You want to go?" Mary Beth looked at the two people she'd been traveling with and nodded, "Last one in has to take care of the horse." "You're on." Danny said and kicked the horse under her into a gallop. Darrel frowned at the sound of hoof beats and walked outside to look, Danny, Cody, and Mary Beth came tearing into the yard, full speed only to slide to a halt near the corral. The trio was laughing so hard Mary Beth nearly fell from the saddle. "I won!" Cody declared. "You lost!" Danny laughed. "I won." "How about you two take care of the horses. I won." Mary Beth said sliding to the ground. Glancing at a slight movement she left the horse standing and ran, "Darrel!" she cried as he swung her up into his arms. "Hi Baby." Darrel said hugging his wife hard. He'd missed her so much, when he'd gotten home to find a note saying gone to Rock Creek he'd headed out as fast as he could switch horses. Now he was glad he had. He watched Danny coming toward him with a smile she looked relaxed and happy. "Hey Danny, how are you doing girl?" "Really good." Danny replied, "Look who I found." She glanced at Cody who had come up behind her and wrapped her in his arms. "Hi Cody." Darrel shook the other man's hand. "Everyone's gone fixing fence. Rachel's in town I think." With a shrug Cody turned back to the horses, "I'll take care of the horses if you two want to go inside. Darrel can give me a hand." "Thanks." Danny kissed Cody on the cheek as she headed inside with a beaming Mary Beth. Quickly stripping the three horses Cody tossed hay into the corral and turned them loose. "Where did you meet the girls?" Darrel asked as he finished stowing the saddles. "Fort Benson." Cody replied calmly, "Mary Beth seems to mother Danny a lot." "Yeah. Funny isn't it? There’s only about two years age difference between them but Mary Beth seems to like mothering Danny. I think the two women actually enjoy the way things are, keeps them from actually having to admit that they're friends." Darrel chuckled. Walking back into the bunkhouse the two men found the women talking animatedly about the package Danny had tossed on Lou's bed. When the door opened they glanced up and just let the conversation drop. "So what do you think?" Cody asked, "You going to stay in town?" "Darrel and I are. It would be too cramped in here with everyone." Mary Beth smiled softly. "Teaspoon isn't going to let me stay in here." Danny smiled, "Much as we might like it if he did. Lou'll be staying in the main house until the wedding so I figured I'd stay in town. Gives you an excuse to come to town." Danny winked at Cody and Darrel laughed. Dusk was falling when the boys got back to the yard, the could smell supper cooking and Jimmy groaned, "I'm too tired to eat." "Jimmy no one is too tired to eat." Lou replied. "Come off it guys, Teaspoon'll have our hides if we don't put this stuff away before we eat." She ignored the groans of protest and started unloading the wagon. The faint sound of laughter drew Buck from the barn and he noted the movement in the bunkhouse window, "Looks like Rachel's back from Mrs. Keller’s." "Thank God! That means Teaspoon isn’t cooking." Noah made a face at the thought. "Cody's back." Kid said rushing form the barn, "His horse is in her stall. Unfortunately, the team Rachel was driving isn’t back yet, so it’s either Cody or Teaspoon cooking!” "Great. Neither one can cook, so we’re gonna suffer." Jimmy muttered. "At least there’s gonna be lots, since Cody’s not eating anything." "He was eating fine in Fort Benson." Lou said. "Didn't get a lot of sleep, but was eating fine." Glancing at Kid as he tried to smother a chuckle, she laughed as she headed for the bunkhouse. "Louise! You be nice." Kid chuckled at the thought of Lou's payback. Poor Cody, he wouldn't know what hit him. "What's she talking about?" Jimmy asked perplexed by Lou and Kid’s expressions. Kid laughed outright, "Come on, I'll explain on the way." Quickly he recounted the morning Danny had opened the bedroom door to everyone and the boys roared with laughter as they headed for the door of the bunkhouse. Cody heard them coming and groaned, "Kid or Lou told them." he warned Danny as he held her in his lap. His feet in the chair next to him he leaned back to grab the coffee pot and poured another cup of coffee. Sliding his hand up her leg, he grinned when she slapped his hand and winked at him. Shrugging Danny smiled as she glanced at Mary Beth who was protesting the trip was hard. "Oh don't even say it Mary Beth! You went swimming with us. She even went fishing Darrel so don't let her tell you she didn't have fun. Besides you know as well as I do that being a lady isn’t a lot of fun at times. You just got a chance to be a girl again.” "Fishing?" Darrel glanced at his wife who sat in his lap, then turned to Danny and Cody, "You went fishing with them, and you won't go with me?" "I had no choice. Those two weren't doing anything to help with supper. A person can only eat so much jerky and canned foods before they give out." Mary Beth protested with a laugh, "Unfortunately I can't eat affection. And that’s about what they were interested in the whole way here. Spent more time sneaking kisses then paying attention to the trail!” "Really? Funny you should say that. Who was it that told me she couldn't live without her husband? Any way Mary Beth it’s called love! You did it with Darrel for the first two years you were married. Couldn’t find one of you without the other stuck to you! And thinking such thoughts isn’t proper for a lady!” Danny laughed at the blush on her friends face as the door opened and the boys filed in. "Hey Cody. Teaspoon's hopping mad." Buck said laughing at Cody who squirmed under his gaze. "You're late." Buck didn’t comment on where Danny was sitting, talking to the young woman sitting across the table in an animated conversation. "I am not late. Didn't you tell him I took an extra run?" Looking at Kid and Lou for confirmation, he waited for them to nod. "Sure you did, that's why your horse is bone dry and well rested." Jimmy snickered, "Unlike you. You look a little tired there Cody, not getting any sleep?" Laughing at him the boys stowed their guns on their bunks and sat down around the table as Danny rose to check on supper. She stirred the pot her mind on the man sitting at the table talking to Kid. “Teaspoon says you’re late Cody. He’s not listening to us say you’re not late.” Kid explained. “I said I’d be here a day or two before the wedding. It’s not until day after tomorrow so what is everyone all fired up about?” Cody demanded as the door opened and Teaspoon walked in. Teaspoon froze as he realized that there were three extra bodies that hadn’t been there when he’d left this morning. Seeing Cody he frowned then realized it wasn’t Rachel making supper, and another young woman sat next to Darrel chatting away with him in low tones. “Evening Teaspoon.” Danny said to the Marshall. She liked him even when he was being obtuse. “Evening Danny.” Teaspoon realized now why Cody was late. He’d run into Danny on the trail somewhere along the lines. Shaking his head he muttered, “Cody you’re a day late.” “No I’m not.” Cody replied. “I’m a day early.” Shaking their heads everyone just refrained from mentioning that he was actually on time for the run he’d taken. Supper was a relatively quiet affair with only sporadic conversation tossed in. Thinking it wouldn’t be long before everyone had retired for the night Teaspoon, sat back in his chair and watched the youngsters. “Well I hate to disappoint everyone but I really do have to get out of here.” Darrel rose, “I’m dead on my feet.” “Good night.” Mary Beth rose with her husband and they headed for the door. “You want me to come along with you?” Danny inquired from where she’d sat next to Cody. “Nope.” Darrel grinned at her, “See you in the morning.” “See you.” Glancing at the others Danny hid a smile, “I’m gonna head out to. Hopefully I can get a room in town.” “I’ll walk with you.” Cody volunteered and held her chair. Leaving everyone staring he followed Danny out the door and headed for town at a leisure walk. “You going to get a place around here?” “I was thinking on it.” Danny said. “That way you’ll be able to come there instead of sneaking around the hotel.” Cody laughed softly, “If the express closes, which I’ve heard is a possibility, the army’s offered me a position as a scout.” “Are you going to take it?” Danny asked as they entered the hotel. “Depends on you.” “Me? Why?” “I’d like you to come with me if I sign on.” Cody said waiting while she signed into the hotel and got her key. He followed her up the steps and into the room. “Cody you know as well as I do what would happen..” “Not as my mistress.” Cody interrupted. “As my wife.” Danny stared at Cody in amazement. “You serious?” “Very. I told Captain Burrows I’d let him know as long as I could have my wife with me. He said no problem.” Cody shrugged sheepishly, “I want to get married Danny.” Danny turned to the window and sucked in a deep breath, “Oh Cody.” “You don’t have to answer me right away. Take some time think on it.” Cody said quickly, “I’m patient I can wait.” “I don’t need to think on it.” Danny smiled at him through her tears, “Of course I’ll marry you.” “I love you. It’s all well and good the way we’ve been going but I want more. Whether we have a month together or a lifetime together, I want it with you.” Cody whispered as Danny clung to him. “When?” “Soon.” Cody replied. “Kid and Lou’s wedding took them forever to plan, I just want a simple ceremony. We could go into Sweetwater to the Justice of the Peace and have him marry us.” “How about a week from Saturday?” Danny asked pulling back slightly. Smiling Cody leaned down to kiss her; he knew he’d made the right choice in asking her to marry him. Now all he had to do was tell everyone. He’d wait until after Kid and Lou’s wedding to tell everyone he thought, and then they’d see how things went. He knew the express was failing; soon there wouldn’t be a need for riders to carry the mail. But as long as he had Danny, he’d be fine. Email Destardi HOME