Prologue Ike glanced behind him at the Sweetwater station a silent goodbye, he could barely see the buildings in the gathering light of predawn, and turning his horse, he kicked him into a high gallop headed for Wilson Station. The bay galloped hard as they ate up the miles, dawn’s pink fingers fading to reveal a blue sky as the sun climbed higher in the sky. The horizon took on the shapes and outlines of the hills, revealing the rocky ground and open expanse of Nebraska’s beauty. Following an invisible map, Ike galloped his horse until he saw the familiar landmark that marked the turn off for Wellsburg. Soothing his mount, he slowed him to a jog he needed to cool him down or he’d never make it. Feeling only slightly guilty he wondered if the boys were awake yet, and if they’d found the note he’d left for them. Shrugging he knew he could not go back; he was needed at Wilson Station. Besides, if Teaspoon ever found out about Sara she could lose everything she’d worked hard to get. Smiling at the thought of the dark haired woman waiting for him, Ike resisted urging his horse faster. He’d met Sara months before on his first run to Crooked Top; she’d been running the wait station twenty miles west of Wellsburg. Relaxing, he let the memories over come him as he headed for the place he now called home. He’d ridden in, his horse covered in sweat and lather, craving sleep and a hot meal. He’d pulled up only to see a slight figure leading a sorrel toward him, thinking it was a boy he’d stepped forward to take the mount only to freeze when his eyes met a pair of baby blue eyes filled with laughter and something he hadn’t recognized. Feeling the jolt at the young man’s touch he’d blinked and realized that the young boy was indeed a young woman. The horse had jerked back; knocking her hat off sending a riot of dark curls tumbling down her back. *Thanks.* He signed. “You’re welcome.” The woman had smiled at his surprised look. “I learned sign from Pa, he was trapper, traded with the Indian’s all the time.” *Ike McSwain.* “Sara Wilson.” Her hand had been warm and calloused from years of hard work. The blunt nails short but clean and her hands had a firm grip to them that belied her tiny stature. Holding her hand a few seconds longer than necessary Ike had studied her, a light burn crossed her nose and a tan slid down her throat into her shirt which gapped at the throat, revealing a slim neck. He’d blinked suddenly when she pulled on her hand before releasing it and swinging onto the sorrel she held. With a final look at her he’d galloped out of the yard without looking back, an uncomfortable, too-tightly drawn feeling covering his body as he rode on to Crooked Top. On the way back he’d stopped off to get the mount he’d rode in on and noted her waiting for him with the horse saddled and a bag of grub slung over the horn. “Best you have something to eat on the trail.” Sara’d said quickly flushing as he looked at her. She’d ducked her head a moment before he’d swung onto his horse, with a half smile at him, she’d slapped the horse’s rump sending him into a gallop. It had been nearly a month before he’d made it back to Wilson Station, and he remembered it well. He’d ridden in on a run that had preceded a day off and pulled up. Sara’d been out in the corral working with a rambunctious mount, saddling him as he danced away from her. The horse had reared and thrown his head, nearly knocking Sara off her feet. She’d kept her balance only to be pinned between the corral and the horse as he slammed her into the fence. Hurrying to where she lay in the dirt, Ike had pulled her out of the corral and knelt to check her over. Seeing only bruises he’d shaken his head. *Who’s winning? * “That horse is at the moment.” Sara had climbed to her feet. “I’m sorry, I didn’t realize there was a run going through or I’d have had a mount for you.” *No big deal. I’ll just get one and saddle up myself. Feel free to take rest. * Ike had smiled at her softly noting the way she’d flushed prettily. Sara had nodded her head, pushing the strands of hair out of her face. “Thanks. I think I will.” Ike had saddled up and ridden on to the next station where he’d dropped off his mail pouch, and headed back. He’d stopped in a Wilson’s Station for a hot meal and they’d spent the evening playing cards and talking. Always an early riser, he’d had to be traveling with Buck; he’d been up at the crack of dawn and moving to saddle his horse before heading home. “Ride safe.” Sara called from the porch. Ike had waved and disappeared down the trail. He’d had more runs that way then anyone else, and he’d often spent the evening waiting for another rider to show up or with Sara who’d gotten adept at figuring his schedule. The night of a huge storm after nearly two months of drought, he’d rode in and had to stay put. The wash had flooded out, leaving him stuck in a difficult situation. That night things had gone to the next to step, they’d gone from being friends to being lovers, and every time he’d had some time off he’d gone up to spend it with her. That had been the start of a long and passionate affair, but recently he’d asked her to marry him and she’d agreed. Teaspoon had said that they were moving the station to Rock Creek, and since he hadn’t wanted to go he’d opted instead to return to Wilson’s Station. He’d chose between the love of his family and the love of his wife, now he’d have to settle for taking care of the farm, working with horses and hoping the boys would go through the odd time so he could see them. Pulling up he stared at the small cabin flanked by a large barn and several corrals, grinning he urged his horse into a gallop as the front door opened and the familiar form of his wife stepped out into the morning light. Sara smiled at him as he galloped in. Her laughter reached his ears as he did a running dismount that would have made the others envious had they seen it and hurried to embrace her. “You miss me or something?” Sara’s voice was filled with laughter as he pulled away to kiss her deeply. He let his hands and mouth do the answering for him as she wrapped her arms around him and kissed him back. *It’s good to be home.* Ike declared as he smiled down at her. “I missed you.” Sara whispered. “I’ll put your horse up, there’s grub on the table if you’re hungry.” *Thanks. But it ain’t your cooking that had me rushing to get here.* Ike grinned as she slapped his hand playfully before stepping off the porch to hurry to the horse that stood next to the corral. Watching her Ike knew in his heart he’d made the right decision, he couldn’t lose her and he could always find another job. Smiling he shook his head and ducked inside, hanging his coat on the peg by the door before slipping the plain band of gold back onto his finger as he poured himself a coffee, yep he was definitely glad to be home. Chapter One It had been nearly two months since Ike had disappeared leaving only a brief note saying he’d had no choice and that he was sorry to leave, that he’d miss his friends and family; and the boys had a hard time trying to figure out why. “I’m sure he’d have said something if he had a problem in town.” Lou said watching the others. She’d relaxed since they’d discovered she was a girl and now felt comfortable with them although she was still closer to Kid than anyone. “He never said a word to me.” Buck declared, the others knew Buck had been hurt by his friend’s departure and angered at the lack of explanation from the silent rider. “Anyone seen him on a run?” “Nope.” Cody shook his head from his bunk. “If he’s still working for the Pony Express he ain’t been taking any runs.” “Maybe he got some girl in trouble?” Ben suggested, he’d only met the silent man a couple of times and frankly he’d been a little put off by his demeanor, Ike didn’t socialize well with others, and talking to women for him was impossible. “Ike isn’t like that.” Buck retorted of the rider just passing through on a run. “When’s Kid due back from Wellsburg?” Jimmy asked cleaning his guns. “Tomorrow early.” Lou replied with a frown. She knew his runs as well as her own. “Why?” “Just thought that he might have seen the knot head.” Jimmy replied glancing up. “We all know Ike liked taking the Wellsburg run.” “We’ll just have to wait and see.” Buck declared as the door opened and Rachel; the new cook stepped in. “Anyone met the new station master of Wilson Station?” “Boys don’t you have work to do?” Rachel crossed her arms and waited as the boys rose still grumbling under their breath. “Sure thing Rachel.” The boys gathered their things and exited still worrying about Ike’s whereabouts. Staring at the familiar sorrel Kid watched the rider come out of the mercantile with a sick feeling in his gut as the rider swung into the saddle tossing a couple of saddlebags over the saddle. Nodding at the aging shopkeeper, Ike turned west and trotted out of town without noticing Kid. Grinding his teeth together, Kid watched Ike ride out until he couldn’t see him any longer then turned back to the blacksmith who was shoeing Katy. Noting the man was done he paid him and led his horse out of the stall to mount up. A frustrated glance down the street later, Kid adjusted the mailbags and headed home for Rock Creek. Pulling up a few miles out of town he glanced behind him before turning his mount around and headed back the way he’d come. Following the trail, he pulled up as he spotted Ike trotting along. Following him at a slower pace he watched him dismount in front of a cabin as the door opened and a raven-haired beauty stepped out to throw herself into his arms. Turning away at their embrace he shifted in the saddle, Kid knew he was expected back in Rock Creek, but he knew four riders who would be only to happy to know who he’d seen. Opting to stick around for a few minutes he waited patient as Ike and the young woman spoke before Ike mounted up to gallop off down the trail headed the opposite direction. “Well old girl, looks like this might be our only chance.” Kid muttered nudging Katy forward. Loping into the yard, he pulled up and glanced around. “You lost?” The woman’s soft accent drew his attention to where she stood on the porch. “I think so. I’m headed for Rock Creek on an express run. I think I’ve taken a wrong turn somewhere.” Kid fibbed slightly. “Not really, Rock Creek’s two days that way.” The woman pointed behind Kid. “Looks like you got turned around in Wellsburg.” “Thank you Ma’am. Much obliged.” Sara nodded at the young man and watched him gallop off the way he’d come. Something told her trouble was sure to follow his arrival and she turned in the direction her husband had taken off in. Ike was in serious trouble, and if he had hair Kid would have put money on a bet that Buck would gladly scalp him for putting them all through some serious worry. Katy ate up the miles until it got too dark to see then Kid pulled up and made a cold camp, the image of Ike and the young woman still bothering him. What would have made the young man leave Sweetwater; leave the others? And who was the dark haired woman Ike was so friendly with? He tried to remember if anyone had said anything to him that might have set him off but couldn’t think of anything. They’d been teasing him about finding himself a girl, but Ike had just shrugged it off, saying he didn’t need one right then. Shaking his head Kid pulled his hat down over his eyes and got a couple of hours sleep before mounting up and heading home. Pushing his paint mare Kid rode into the station mid-morning and pulled up sharply, sending the mare into a sliding stop. “You’re late.” Jimmy called as Kid hopped out of the saddle and headed toward him. “Where is everyone?” Kid asked seeing only Jimmy sitting in the shade. “They are out at Hobbs getting the rest of the horses.” Jimmy rose lithely a frown on his face as Kid pondered something over. “Why?” “Saddle up, we’re going to Wellsburg.” “What the hell’s in Wellsburg?” Jimmy demanded as Kid swung up on Katy and nudged her into a gallop, setting up a dust trail out of the yard. Throwing his hands in the air he headed for the barn to saddle his palomino. Lou glanced up at the sound of hoof beats. “Rider coming!” “Who the devil is that?” Cody demanded, he’d missed breakfast and was starving. “Kid.” Buck declared as he glanced at the horses with out expression. “Something’s wrong.” Lou gasped swinging into her saddle without waiting for the others she galloped to meet the paint mare. “What is it?” Lou gasped as she pulled up next to Kid. “I saw Ike.” Kid gasped as Katy pranced under him. “Where?” Lou demanded as Cody and Buck galloped up to them. “Wellsburg.” “You sure it was him?” Lou asked. “Yes!” Kid nodded quickly, “I don’t know anyone else that looks like him.” “Who?” Buck demanded. “Ike.” Lou replied as she glanced at the other two. “He’s in Wellsburg.” “Lets go.” “I’ve got to get a fresh horse.” Kid stated as they turned back to the station. “And Jimmy’s got to get ready.” “This means I’ll miss lunch to.” Cody whined. “Shut up Cody, or I’ll shoot you myself.” Lou snapped. “How far is it to Wellsburg?” Buck asked. “A day’s hard ride, we should get in sometime tomorrow night.” Kid shrugged. “Guess this explains why he liked the Wellsburg run.” “He with anyone?” “He rode out of town on that sorrel he favored.” Kid shrugged and shifted in the saddle. “Headed out of town and stopped off at Wilson Station.” “He better have a damn good excuse for pulling out without explanation.” Buck snarled. “Yeah.” Lou agreed. “You’d think he’d at least tell us.” “We’ll find out.” Kid said pulling up and swinging down as Jimmy led a gray stallion and his palomino out into the sun. After taking care of Katy he swung into the saddle as they others gathered their reins and prepared to take off. “Hold it!” Teaspoon’s voice had all five of them turning to face him. “And where do you think you’re going?” “Wellsburg.” Buck replied. “What’s in Wellsburg?” Teaspoon frowned at the mention of the mining town. “Come to think of it you boys got work to do here.” “And we’ll do it soon as we get back.” Jimmy declared. “We got business to see to.” Leaning forward he urged his mount into a gallop followed by the others leaving Teaspoon standing in the middle of a cloud of dust watching their departure. Teaspoon rubbed his face briskly, it looked like someone had seen Ike. If the boys and Lou’s attitude was any indication Ike was going to regret pulling out without an explanation for the boys. Chapter Two Sara watched her husband working in the corral with a big black mare and shook her head. “Hon, leave her be for the time being. Come eat your supper before it gets cold.” She called. Ike waved a hand in her direction intent on getting the mare calmed down. Moving slowly he managed to get the halter on her, and the lead rope before she bolted across the corral coming up short as he tied her to the center pole. “Ike?” Sara walked over to the fence. “That mare ain’t going anywhere. You can come out and finish with her later.” Tying her off Ike faced his wife while rubbing the sweat from his forehead with his sleeve, Ike set his battered hat back on head. *She’ll be a good mount, when she’d broken.* “I hope so. Come on in Hon, ain’t no point in you starving over a horse.” Sara pleaded watching him. Shaking her head as he rolled his eyes she laughed as he wrapped an arm around her waist as he closed the corral gate. *Have I told you how much I love you today?* “Not in the last little while. A girl doesn’t mind being reminded.” Sara said as he squeezed her before dropping a kiss on her cheek and heading for the washbasin on the porch. Watching him getting cleaned up she sighed softly, in the three months they’d been married she’d watched him do this countless times but something about the strength in his hands, and the easy way he had of moving made her long for the time when they could shut out the world and be alone together. *Any mail? * Ike asked. “Nope.” Sara replied softly. “The last pouch was headed for Denver. New rider went through though.” Ike nodded and stepped inside the cabin, new riders weren’t anything to get excited about, they came and went around this part of the country with startling regularity. The interior had definitely changed since he’d first started coming here, flowers now decorated the table along with lace curtains and a few hand sewn blankets covered one wall with elegance. The spare bunk she’d had the first times he’d been here and been replaced with a long storage trunk, filled with the dry goods that they needed to make a daily living. The massive bed that had set in one tiny room behind a curtain now sat in a real bedroom with a door and windows, a fireplace sat in that same room along with a set of built in dressers and a full length mirror. “You want coffee?” Sara asked reaching for a cup. Ike smiled at her with a slight shake of his head he sat at the table and leaned back. *If you’re gonna have a cup.* “I’ve been going over those receipts for the last month. We’re a head by about ten dollars, if we keep this up we may actually have enough to live out the winter on.” *What do you think we need before the snow flies? Sooner or later we’re gonna have to get winter supplies, might as well get ‘em tomorrow when we go into town.* “Well we’ll need coffee, side bacon, flour, sugar, molasses, could do with some material if I’m gonna be cooped up in the house this winter, I might as well do some sewing.” Sara replied settling on Ike’s lap. “Course I’ve got you to keep me occupied but I should do something while you’re working.” Smiling Ike pinched her lightly on the butt, *We should probably get some more lumber and a few more boxes of shells. Never know when we might need them.* “Agreed.” Sara sighed leaning into him, glad to have his arms around her. “I talked to old man Davies.” *What he have to say?* “Well if you want to get rid of the mule, he’ll trade him for a milking cow.” Sara suggested. “Course we’d have to lay in feed for her, but we could always use the milk. Then we wouldn’t be spending money on butter and such.” Ike nodded, *We can take the mule over after supper. Draw up a list of the things we’ll need then we’ll go to town tomorrow.* Smiling Sara rose to do as she’d been told only to shriek with laughter when he pulled her back into his lap. Looking into his laughing eyes she sighed and leaned over to kiss him hungrily, the shopping list forgotten as he picked her up to carry her to their bedroom. Harry Davies smiled at the young couple that rode up his drive, the older bay mule between them as they laughed at each other. He remembered being young and in love, glancing at his wife his smile turned into a full grin as he realized he was still in love, although maybe not so young. “Evening Mister, Mrs. McSwain.” He addressed the young couple with ease. Some folks didn’t care for them cause the Mister couldn’t talk, but they’d never done him wrong, in fact had helped him out time and again. “Evening Mr. Davies.” The easy greeting from the young woman drew a chuckle. “We brought the mule. Need the milk cow.” “Well I’ve got a couple of young ones. Good producers both of ‘em. You can take a look and make up your mind.” He stated taking the lead rope for the mule and heading for the barn. He didn’t really need a mule, but the youngsters were just starting out, and the express didn’t have no use for a mule so he figured he’d trade ‘em. Stepping into the barn he glanced at the youngsters as they walked along holding hands, “These are the two heifers.” he said pointing to a pair of dairy cows that were standing eating as they waited for milking. “I like this one.” Sara patted the black and white one gently as she munched on the hay. “Course we need the one that’s broke to lead.” “Both of ‘em are halter trained.” Harry said as he put the mule in a stall. “I’ll leave it up to you. That one she’s a better producer although they’re both excellent milkers.” Sara looked at Ike as he looked the animals over, she knew very little about cows other than how to milk one. When he glanced at her and patted the cow she’d mentioned she knew he’d come to the same conclusion she had. “We’ll take her.” “Good choice.” Harry said leading the cow out of her stall. “You best milk her as soon as you get home, she’ll be ready by then.” Sara nodded and smiled as they led the cow out into the fading daylight. “You need any eggs?” “Got plenty of layers myself. You might want to take ‘em into town. Mr. Mclure buys eggs.” “I’ll do that when we go in again.” *Does he need anything from town?* Ike asked as he swung up into the saddle. “What was that?” “You need anything from town?” “I do need some tea.” Mrs. Davies said coming out onto the porch. “I’ll be happy to fetch it for you.” Sara said mounting up easily and gathering her reins. “Well just hold on girl, I’ll get you the funds.” Smiling Sara waited for the white haired woman to return with the nickel for the tea. Taking it with a nod she tucked it into her pocket and followed Ike as they headed home. The ride the ten miles back to the cabin was done in silence, the soft look in Sara’s eyes as they rested on her husband telling more than any words could have. Together they got the stock fed, water and bedded down before heading inside. *There a run tonight?* Ike asked hanging his hat, coat and gun up. “Nope. Next runs on Thursday.” Sara replied as she shrugged out of her jacket and work shirt. Hanging them on the back of the nearest chair she stoked the fire as Ike closed the shutters, locking the place up, as they got ready for bed. Lying in each other’s arms they quickly fell asleep the only sound the popping of the fire as it devoured the wood in the fireplace. The pink glow of the clouds told of another sunny day on the horizon as Ike stirred pulling Sara closer to him and groaning silently as he opened his eyes to see the sun creeping across their bedroom floor. Leaning over he kissed Sara’s bare shoulder before smacking her on the butt to wake her. Swinging his legs out of bed he rose and stretched, the bare wood cold beneath his feet as he stretched his arms reaching over his head. “Would you quit doing that?” Sara’s muffled voice had him turning to look at her with a raised eyebrow. “Makes me want to drag you back in bed and we can’t do that. We’ve got to get to town.” *I know. Come on woman, get some clothes on and lets get going.* Ike leaned down and kissed her quickly before reaching for his clothes. In no time they were dressed and hitching up the team to the wagon. “I’ll grab that list and be right back Hon.” Sara said rushing toward the house, grabbing the paper she’d left on the table she headed back outside and over to the wagon, her hat firmly set in place along with her gun on her hip. Old habits died hard. Urging the old team into motion Ike drove steadily the twenty miles to town before pulling up in front of the store. Hopping down he turned to help Sara down quickly, his hands wrapping around her waist. *You want me to go get the lumber?* He asked. “Naw, two of us loading will make things go faster.” Sara replied starting up the steps. “Besides you’ve got to sign for that order for the express since you took over as station master.” *Don’t remind me.* Ike grinned as they walked into the mercantile. “Morning Ike, Sara.” the shopkeeper’s voice had both of them grinning at each other. “Morning Mr. Mclure.” Sara replied. “How are you this fine morning?” “Oh can’t complain Miss Sara, how about yourself?” “‘Bout the same.” Sara replied glancing at Ike as he studied a lantern as though he hadn’t seen one before. “I’ve got a list of things we need. Can you fill it for me?” Handing the slip of paper over she watched the man read through it. “Sure can Miss, course it’ll take me a while. How about you come back in say half an hour?” “Sure.” Sara glanced at her husband at the pressure on her arm. *We can get the lumber.* Nodding Sara glanced back at the shopkeeper. “We’ll be back for those things. Do a tally and we’ll settle up when we get back.” “Sure thing.” Watching the pair depart the man smiled and went to fill the order; as usual when Sara McSwain came in it was with a massive order, an amazing feet considering they were in on a regular basis. Sara let Ike check out the lumber and work out a deal with the millwright as she watched. Ike had a tendency to be abrupt with the man, getting him to drop his price by a couple of pennies was a feat in itself considering the man refused to allow Sara to translate. *Come on, we’d best load up and get back.* Ike said as the man walked away shaking his head after Ike handed him the few dollars for the load of lumber. “Remind me to get a new pair of gloves.” Sara grunted as she hefted lumber onto the back of the wagon. “These one’s have more holes than my lace curtains.” Laughing Ike tossed the last bit of lumber into the wagon and offered his hand to Sara who took it and climbed up onto the seat. Lifting the reins she held them for Ike who climbed up after her and turned the team toward the store. “Lets go for lunch.” Sara suggested as they finished loading up the dry goods and other supplies that they’d ordered. *Where?* Ike shook his head. *Only two places in town, the saloon or the hotel.* “We can go to the hotel, Miss Annie ain’t gonna mind making us something to eat.” Sara smiled at Ike. “Please Hon, it’s been ages since we’ve eaten out.” *Okay.* Ike agreed. *As long as we’re out of town by two we should be able to get home before dark, giving us time to unload.* “Thank you.” Sara squeezed his arms lovingly. “We’ll have plenty of time.” She promised as they stopped in at the hotel to have lunch. “Why Mrs. McSwain, Mr. McSwain!” The voice drew their attention to the aging black woman who ran the place. “Hi Miss Annie, we came for lunch.” Sara said hopefully. “Well come on in and sit down. I’ll fix you up right nice like.” Annie declared rubbing her hands together gladly, Ike and Sara only came in once a month and she relished their visits. “Thanks Annie.” *Much obliged.* Ike sat next to Sara, his arm resting on the back of her chair as they accepted the coffee Annie poured ‘em. “So what are you two doing in town?” Annie asked. “Getting supplies. Gonna add on to the cabin.” Sara replied as Ike sipped his coffee. “Need another room.” “You expecting so soon?” Annie asked a twinkle in her dark eyes. *You’d think so the way we’re trying.* Ike grinned into his coffee. “No at this time.” Sara flushed slightly at Ike’s sign. “Course you never know, good Lord’ll give us a child when he’s ready.” “Well I wish you all the best.” Annie said setting two plates down in front of them. “Best make sure that you get a room if you’re gonna be in town much longer. Don’t want you driving after dark.” “Gonna head home right after lunch.” Sara said with a smile. “Got a wagon to unload.” “I’ll talk to you later.” Annie declared as the room started to fill with other customers. “Don’t be strangers.” Ike nodded as he pushed his empty plate away, Sara followed his example a few minutes later and rose. Tossing a bill on the table Ike led Sara out the door. Lifting her onto the wagon he climbed up behind her. *You finished socializing for now?* “Yep. Lets get home.” Sara said grinning at him with a twinkle in her eye. Shaking his head Ike started the team home. “I hate this town.” Kid shifted in the saddle as they watched the saloon girls lounging on the porch of the saloon. Riding slowly they stuck together, trouble didn’t need to come calling especially now that they were so close to finding their friend. “Hell if I had to live here I’d just shoot myself, it’s a hell hole.” Jimmy whistled at the loudness of the mining town. “Oh shut up.” Lou snapped. “You’re beginning to sound like Cody.” “Well sitting here jawing ain’t getting us any closer to any answers.” Kid stated and nudged his mount forward. Falling into stride the others followed him as they headed down the road. “Don’t make sense. Ike has a harder time of dealing with girls than anyone, wonder how come he finds it so easy to talk to her.” “Probably cause he don’t say nothing.” Buck replied as they walked the horses along. Falling silent the riders kept their horses to a slow, easy trot following Kid’s lead as it became apparent that he’d been here before. “Hey isn’t this the way to Wilson’s Station?” Cody asked suddenly. “Yep. How’d you know?” “I remember Teaspoon saying Wilson Station was a drop off point, that it was out this way.” Cody shrugged. “Hopefully you’re right.” Buck said as they moved along. Pulling up on the team, Ike jumped down. *We’d best get the supplies unloaded, the lumber can wait until tomorrow.* Nodding her agreement Sara hopped down, and reach for a bag of flour. Lifting it onto her shoulder she headed for the house, leaving Ike with the barrel of Molasses. Together they made short work of the supplies, depositing them in the cabin or barn depending on where they had to go. “Hon, you want something to eat?” Sara asked as she wiped her forehead with her sleeve. “I’ll make something for us to eat if you’re hungry.” *Why don’t you just reheat what we had last night?* Ike grinned at her innocently, they both needed to unwind and the only way to do that was to have some fun. Pulling the team along he tied them to the corral fence before turning back to his wife. Nodding Sara turned to go back inside; with a frown she turned around to face him and shook her head. “Don’t you dare Ike.” She pointed a finger at him as she walked backward. The too innocent look on his face alerted her to the fact that he had something on his mind, and she didn’t like the look of things. *Don’t do what?* “If you’re thinking of tickling me, you’d best just forget it.” *Me? Tickle you, now where on earth would you get that idea?* Ike laughed as she backed away. “You’ll regret it.” Sara warned laughing as she ducked out of his way and headed for the barn at a dead run. If she could get around the wagon she could get back to the house before he caught her. Knowing how her mind worked Ike ducked around the front of the wagon and reach for her as she tried to go past him. Grinning he chased after her she sideswiped him, narrowly missing her. Catching her he picked her up as she shrieked. “Ike!” Laughing as he tickled her ribs Sara squirmed in his grasp, hooking a foot behind his leg she dumped him on his butt only to squirm even hard as he shifted, holding her in place with a leg wrapped around her thighs. “Ike, don’t. Stop! I’m ticklish.” Sara gasped in between bouts of laughter. *That’s the whole point.* Ike signed wrapping his arms around her so he could sign. *It’s payback time.* “For what?” Sara laughed. *Sticking your cold feet on me this morning.* Ike signed before tickling her even harder. The way she was bucking on top of him he had a hard time holding her but a slight shift of his body, his leg wrapped around her and she was laughing so hard she lost the power to squirm. “I give up.” Sara gasped as she swiped at the tears of mirth running down her cheeks, her stomach ached and she didn’t think she could laugh anymore. *Poor baby.* Ike grinned cockily. Shaking with laughter Sara bucked under him and screamed when he pinched her before starting to tickle her again. “Ike! You’re gonna kill me!” Holding her steady Ike shrugged as he poked at her ribs. “I promise not to stick my cold feet on you ever again.” She giggled wiggling in his grasp, her body shaking with laughter. *Not good enough.* Ike replied sending her into peals of laughter as he laughed at the way she squirmed under his weight. “Ike I need to get Mrs. Davies her tea.” Sara laughed curling into a ball as her stomach ached from laughing. “Ike I’m serious!” *Then you’d better get to it. Try to be back before dark.* Ike said sitting back on his haunches as she climbed to her feet and headed for the house. After grabbing the bag of tea she hurried out to the barn where Ike had saddled her a horse. “I’ll try to be back before dark. In case you get hungry I left some bread on the counter, make a sandwich if you want.” *Get going woman. Sooner you’re gone the sooner you’ll get home.* Ike smiled at her as she leaned down out of the saddle to kiss him. “I’ll be back.” Kicking the gelding into a run she headed down the trail to the Davies homestead a smile on her face. Ike watched her go a smile on his face, turning he headed for the corral to unharness the team. Pausing he glanced up the road and frowned, looked like there were riders coming. They’d never had any trouble but that didn’t mean that it couldn’t start. Picking up the rifle he waited until he had a better view then set it back in the wagon and going to work on the buckles of the harnesses that horses wore. “Well I’ll be damned.” Jimmy said pulling up as they watched a dark haired woman race out of the yard down a well-worn trail. “Yeah.” Cody breathed. “If that’s the reason he left I can understand perfectly.” “Oh shut up Cody.” Lou snapped as she watched Ike set the rifle he’d picked up back into the wagon. “Looks like he seen us.” “Come on, let’s see what he’s got to say.” Buck said urging his mount forward. Pulling up next to the corral they dismounted as Ike released the team into the pasture and turn to face them. “So Ike, you got an explanation?” Jimmy asked silkily. “Or do you just like worrying folks.” “Yeah Ike. It would have been nice to have an explanation; hell even a letter to say you were safe would have been nice.” Kid crossed his arm over his chest. *Why? Looks to me like you found me easily enough.* Ike said shifting as he headed by the boys toward the barn. “Don’t give us that.” Lou snapped. “You could have said something Ike.” “Well now he can explain it, I mean since we’re all here.” Buck drawled slowly. “Who’s the girl?” Cody asked shifting slightly. “If I had that hanging off my arm I’d stay up here to.” *Sara?* Ike smiled and shook his head. *She used to run the station.* He wasn’t sure about the extra work of milking a cow but he’d give it a try if Sara didn’t get back in time. “We ain’t going away Ike without an explanation. You owe us at least that much.” Buck snapped as Ike exited the barn sans harnesses. *Might as well come in.* Ike replied. *As for an explanation what do you want to know?* “What the hell happened?” Kid snapped. “I’ve been racking my mind to see if something was said, or done that would have made you leave.” *Had nothing to do with you. It was my choice.* Ike said stepping onto the porch and washing up quickly. *I made the choice to stay behind, there isn’t anything in Rock Creek for me.* “And there is here?” Jimmy stared in amazement at Ike’s slight shrug. “What’s that suppose to mean?” he glanced around at the lush grass, and livestock grazing in the pasture out front as well as the garden that looked well tended off to the side near the barn. *Exactly what I said.* Ike signed angrily. *I chose a future over a job, what’s so hard to understand about that!* “Don’t give me that.” Buck snapped. *What is that supposed to mean?* Ike said stepping inside as the others followed quickly. “How long you been here?” Lou asked sipping on the cup of coffee Ike poured for her. *Couple of months.* Ike shrugged leaning back in his chair. *When I left Sweetwater this is where I came. * “It ain’t like you to leave your friends, family over a pretty face.” Cody stated. Ike grinned at Cody’s words. *So what is it exactly that you want me to do?* “Come back with us. Teaspoon’ll give you back your job.” *Nope.* Ike shook his head firmly. *I don’t want my old job back, I like it here.* “Admittedly the view is better but still, you should be with friends and family.” Buck replied crossly his eyes boring into Ike’s. “I agree Ike, whatever went wrong I’m sure we can fix it.” Kid started. *Nothing went wrong; no one said anything. It had nothing to do with you guys.* Ike slapped the table. *It wasn’t a choice for me to stay, I have no desire to live and work in Rock Creek any more than I would want to work in Sweetwater or anywhere else. I have everything I need here.* “Ike please, you’re being unreasonable.” Lou stated staring at him as he rose to stare out the window, Shaking his head Ike glanced out the window, he didn’t like Sara taking off this close to dark. There were too many things that could go wrong even on the ten-mile trip to the Davies’ homestead. “Earth to Ike!” Cody smacked him on the arm, “You listening to us?” *Not really.* Ike replied. *Look I’m happy right here why can’t you understand that I made this choice and let it lay.* “Because you’re making your decision based on hormones.” Buck threw his hands in the air. “I hear a rider coming.” “Maybe it’s Teaspoon.” Cody suggested. “I don’t think he was too happy with us taking off like that.” “Probably not.” Kid agreed glancing at Ike. “But he can scream at Ike.” *It’s not.* Ike signed as he caught sight of the horse galloping back along the familiar trail. By the look of the dust on the horse’s legs she took the creek path. Shaking his head in frustration Ike waited for her to come inside. “You walked out on us!” Buck snapped trying to drag the conversation back into the reason for their arrival. “Look Ike whatever the reason for your leaving is your own. The least you could have done though was to tell us what the problem was.” Jimmy drawled leaning back against the wall, his chair tipping dangerously. Staring out at the barn Ike shook his head slowly. *Look I love you guys but I couldn’t stay. If I had of stayed I’d have lost Sara and that’s not something I was prepared to do.* “What the hell are you talking about? If she loves you she would have waited or moved..” Buck asked dreading the answer. He’d caught the flash of gold on Ike’s hand. Ike glanced at them and sighed, explanations were always more difficult when you had to start at the beginning. *I met Sara on my first run out this way. I don’t know it just seemed to be really easy to talk to her. She was always one step ahead of me, had a fresh mount for me when I came in. Packed a lunch most times.” Smiling to himself Ike had to admit though that her cooking had improved slightly in the last few months. “What’s that got to do with you moving up here?” Cody asked as Buck translated softly. *You remember that big storm we had? The one that I said I got caught in?* Ike asked quickly. “Sure, took you two days to get home past when you were due.” Lou shrugged. “What’s that got to do with anything?” *I stayed here. Sara and I did some talking.* Ike paused he didn’t really want them to know all the details. *Things just sort of happened, I got into coming up here and helping out when I had spare time. Then about three and a half months back I asked her to marry me, she agreed. I moved up here to be with her end of story.* Ike declared. Buck stared at his friend as the others waited impatiently for him to translate. “And you didn’t think we’d want to be in on it?” *As a matter of fact no! I tried to talk to you about it and you went on about the job!* Ike signed angrily. “Oh so some woman is more important than you family?” Buck rose. *That ain’t what I said.* Ike rose as well, anger replacing the calm demeanor he’d shown earlier. “Would you two calm down and tell me what the hell is being said?” Kid rose as well. “I’m supposed to be your best friend, the least you could have done was trust me enough to tell me!” *I tried. You just walked away every time I mentioned moving on, or talking about having a family.* Ike stormed. *If you were so worried about how things were going to happen, then you should have listened to me!* “I did!” Buck snarled. *Oh? What did I say when we went on a run to Seneca?* “Something about looking to the future.” Buck waved a hand distractedly. *I said I’d made a decision about my future. I was going to have a family, a home. You brushed it off with the comment that I didn’t need to worry so much about it! That there was plenty of time for such things!* “What the hell are they saying?” Cody asked. Although if Ike moved slowly he could understand him from the way Ike’s hands were flying there was no way he could grasp what was going on. “I don’t know. Something about Buck not listening.” Lou shrugged. “He’s going too fast for me.” “Buck sit down and tell us what he said!” Kid shouted. “I’m not translating anything for him!” Buck stormed. *Just like you to brush it off!* Ike waved catching Buck’s eye. “What the hell’s going on in here!” The unfamiliar voice had everyone jumping. Turning the all faced a dark haired woman with startling blue eyes, standing in the doorway her arms crossed over her chest. From her furious expression the boys knew she wasn’t happy about something. “This is a private conversation.” Cody stated. “Not if it’s taking place in my house. And for damn sure not while you’re yelling at my husband.” Sara snapped slamming the door. “I could hear you all the way out to the corral.” “Then you should have stayed outside.” Jimmy muttered under his breath. Sara stepped forward only to freeze when Ike pulled her onto his lap. *It doesn’t matter. There’s coffee on.* “Thanks.” Sara reached for the pot, poured herself some and sighed. “That ride gets longer every time I take it.” *You haven’t even been gone two hours.* “That’s cause Mr. Davies was waiting for me at the creek. Said he’d just decided to go for a walk-about. Sent his regards.” *You want something to eat?* Ike asked watching her carefully. “Naw. I think I’m gonna go have a nice, hot bath then go to bed. I’ll be up before dawn anyway. Did you milk the cow?” *Tried to.* “I’ll do it before my bath. You want to put the water on for me?” Rising Sara glanced at the others sitting at her table and shrugged. “I’ll only be a few minutes.” Ike nodded and went to fill the buckets for a bath. Staring at the closed door the boys glanced at each other as Ike brushed past them to fill the water for a bath. They felt the barb of his temper as the pots shook with him slamming them. *Its’ getting late for us. If you’re gonna be here for much longer, you can bunk down in the barn and leave in the morning.* Ike looked at them. *Let Sara come in first.* Slamming the front door he left them sitting in stunned silence at the table. “Well guess that settles that.” Kid whistled. “No wonder he didn’t say anything.” “It don’t make sense.” Jimmy said slowly. “Why not just tell us, didn’t he think he could trust us?” “Somehow I don’t think trust was the issue. He likes to keep things to himself, always has. And he’s right, I did brush him off more than once.” Buck shrugged sadly, his shoulders falling dejectedly. “We all did.” Lou said. “Would you like to explain what the hell he said.” Cody addressed Buck. “He said he didn’t think it would matter to us if he got married. He moved up here to be with her.” Buck whispered sadly. “And the way I was acting he didn’t think we’d want to be involved so he didn’t say anything. I guess he thought that we wouldn’t want to be included.” “That’s ridiculous.” The others declared. “Of course we want to be included.” “I know but he doesn’t think so. And now that his wife’s pissed off, I have a feeling that he isn’t gonna want to talk to us at all.” Buck kicked at the table leg ashamed of the way he’d treated his friend. “Maybe we could try and tell him that he’s wrong?” Kid suggested. “He is after all our friend.” “Yeah, and a much better friend than we are.” Jimmy stared at the closed door regretfully. Settling next to Sara, Ike brushed the hair that clung to her face aside, *It’s not that bad.* “I embarrassed you in front of your friends. How could it be anything but bad?” Sara hiccupped as she stared at the barn wall. *I’d say you fit right in with the rest of us. We let our tempers get out of hand Baby; don’t mean we aren’t still friends. Just means that it’s gonna take a little work to get back to the way we were.* “If it weren’t for me you wouldn’t be fighting with your friends.” Sara replied closing her eyes as he brushed her face with his palm. “I’m sorry.” *Oh Hon, it isn’t about you.” Ike said pulling her into his arms, shifting so she was leaning against him so his hands were free he finished his thought. *It’s about keeping a secret. They didn’t want to listen to me when I told ‘em what I was going to do. Now they have to come to terms with that. It has nothing to do with you.* Sara smiled softly. “I never wanted to come between you and them.” *You haven’t.* Sighing shakily she glanced at the gathering darkness. “I have.” *Sara listen to me. If anyone’s to blame it’s me, I could have forced them to listen and I didn’t. Now come on, since you want to work on that mare tomorrow, I think it’s about time for bed.* “You coming to bed to?” Sara asked rising from the bale of hay she’d been sitting on. *Of course, can’t leave you in that big bed all alone, might get lost.* Grinning at his joke Sara headed for the house, a hot bath and bed sounded pretty darn good to her. Ignoring the boys who sat on the front stoop she walked inside closing the door quietly before lighting a lamp and stripping down to take a bath. She glanced up as the door opened and Ike stepped in, closing the door behind him. A smile drifted across her face as she watched him walk toward her. *You need a hand?* “From you?” Sara squeezed his hand. “Anytime.” Laughing softly, Ike shed his shirt and knelt by the tub to wash his wife’s back a sign of the caring ritual they’d developed when one of them was upset about something. It didn’t take long to finish her bath before he picked her up and carried her to bed, locking the rest of the world out at least for the time being. Chapter Three Ike jolted out of bed at the pounding on his bedroom door. Rolling his eyes he glanced at Sara who’d rolled over, pushing the sheet off and lay sprawled naked across the bed, her dark hair in stark contrast to the white of the pillows. “Ike?” the familiar voice of Kid had Ike groaning. “Come on its time to get up we need to talk to you.” Shaking his head, Ike covered Sara and climbed out of bed grabbing his pants and pulling them on over his hips. Picking up his shirt he padded across the wood floor to the door and opened it enough to slip out before closing it with a quiet click. A glance told him everyone was in his kitchen. *I’m sure I locked the door.* He signed moving toward the coffee pot. “You did.” Buck declared. “Just some of us know how to pick the lock.” Sighing Ike rubbed his forehead as he picked up the pot, *And you couldn’t start the coffee?* “Yeah we did. Just used the other coffee pot.” Cody said pointing to the battered coffee pot sitting on the stove. Pouring himself a cup of coffee Ike settled at the head of the table, stretching his legs out in front of him. He could still remember seeing Sara in the store in Sweetwater. She’d been down to get supplies just before he had a week off and they’d smiled softly at each other. He’d offered to help her and she’d taken him up on it. “We wanted to apologize.” Buck started. *Why?* Ike shrugged. “We didn’t really mean to ignore you Ike, it’s just that sometimes we get carried away with things of our own and forget that you aren’t as selfish as the rest of us.” Cody shrugged with a slight grimace. “I know I speak from experience you wait for us to catch up to you, not force us to listen to you.” *So I should have been a bit more selfish. I’ll have to remember that next time.* “You’re right though, I was ignoring you.” Buck glanced away embarrassed at the admission. “I guess I thought if I ignored what you were saying you’d change your mind. I just didn’t want to admit I’d have to share your friendship with someone I’d never met.” *You all met Sara. * Ike protested. “I don’t recall.” Kid declared. *Miss Wilson? Came and got a couple of horses from us several months back. Took particular interest in them before she left. * Ike signed. “That was Sara?” Buck asked whistling under his breath. “I didn’t recognize her.” *Few do. * Ike smiled at the thought that they would really have a problem when she went all out and dressed up. Grinning at the blue gingham dress she’d worn the last time they went to a social, he remembered the looks she’d gotten from both the men and the women. The men admiring the fact that she was a beautiful woman, the woman slightly envious. He also remembered what happened to it when they’d gotten home and his grin spread a little further across his face as he hid behind his coffee cup. He still hadn’t figured out where that dress had landed, but Sara had to have picked it up and put it away. “Hello Ike, you in there?” Lou tapped him on the shoulder as a distant look came across his face. With a shrug Ike turned his attention back to the boys. *I made a decision. What’s so hard to understand about that? * “It wasn’t the decision we had a problem with,” Jimmy said. “It was the fact that we had no idea that you’d made one. Never even crossed my mind that you were involved with some good looking girl, just thought you needed to get away from everything now and then.” *We both know that if the company finds out, she’s gonna get fired. * Ike shrugged. *It wouldn’t bother me so much now, we’re stocked for winter, got plenty of blankets and Sara owns the land. It did bother me before but now, well it don’t. * “We ain’t gonna say anything.” Kid promised. “It’s up to you what you decide. Just don’t be a stranger; we are after all your friends. There’s a lot of people who miss you, most of whom are sitting in this room but Emma’s written a couple of times to ask about you. Give us another chance, maybe this time we won’t be so deaf.” Shrugging Ike glanced up as the bedroom door opened to reveal a sleepy Sara dressed in one of his shirts, a pair of pants and her riding boots. “Can’t you guys talk softly?” Sara yawned. “Some of us are trying to sleep.” *I’d say you’re awake now! * Ike grinned at her black look. “Just for that you can do the morning milking.” *You said you would. * “Awe come on I’m tired!” Sara pleaded. *So am I. * “I didn’t keep you up half the night.” Sara protested. Ike grinned at her choice of words. *I’d have to say you did. * Groaning as she realized she’d stepped into it she headed for the stove and her new coffee pot. “It’s in the old one.” Cody said watching her stare at the pot for a few seconds. “You figure out what you’re gonna do?” Sara asked past a yawn her back to the table. *Thinking on it.” Ike asked as she glanced at him before reaching for her coat. “I better take care of the milking.” Sara said quietly. “If you need me I’ll be in the barn.” The door closed quietly on her words, leaving Ike with a stunned expression on his face. Walking on the path to the barn, Sara stepped inside the barn and let herself relax. She knew he was going, hell she knew he’d leave when she got home last night to find him in the middle of an argument with their guests. Moving down the stalls she stepped into the pen with the milk cow and sat down to milk her, her mind on getting ready to be alone again. Patting the milk cow gently she took the milk up to the house, set it on the porch and headed back to the barn. There were stalls to be cleaned, chickens to be fed and horses to be turned out. Working quickly she made short work of the cleaning as she heard the boys moving around on the porch. Turning the horses in the barn out into the corral she carefully held back her bay gelding and Ike’s sorrel. Saddling her horse she glanced out at the boys, they looked like they were getting ready to leave. Noting Ike standing talking with Buck she shook her head, she needed to get out of here before they came over to the barn. Having never been good at goodbyes, she didn’t think this one would be any easier than the last one. Leading the bay out into the weak sunlight she dropped the reins and walked back into the barn to pat the sorrel, “Well old boy looks like you’re in for a workout.” She said with a final pat on his rump. “In the mean time I’m gonna go over to Lizzy’s. Can’t do any worse over there than I will here.” Turning she smiled at the barn cat before walking out, collecting the reins and swinging into the saddle. A sharp thump on her thigh had her glancing down. *Where are you going?* Ike asked quickly. Sara didn’t usually act so weird. “Over to Lizzy’s. Figured I’d give her a hand with her garden.” Sara replied as her horse shifted, he was anxious to run and she was in a good mood for it. *You gonna be back before dark?* Ike signed. With a smile Sara shrugged. “I’ll be back before you will.” With that she kicked the gelding into a gallop, heading up the trail across the pasture headed for the Morgan place. The gelding’s stride kicked up the grass on the trail, his shoes biting into the soft earth as she headed over to her friend’s place. Ike watched her go with a squint; obviously she had something on her mind. “Everything okay?” Buck asked standing next to his friend. *Nope.* Ike glanced at his friend. *She’s being temperamental.* “Why?” *You tell me.* Ike glanced at Buck with a raised eyebrow. “Our arrival?” Ike nodded. *I think she expects me to go back to Rock Creek with you.* “Aren’t you?” *Not without her.* Ike replied and headed for the barn. He’d have to catch her at the pass otherwise she’d get to the Morgan’s place and heaven help him if she didn’t want to talk to him over there, Lizzy Morgan was well known for having as prickly a disposition as his wife did. Chapter Four Pushing her horse Sara galloped along the trail, pulling up sharply at the appearance of three riders in her path. Swallowing hard she stared in cold terror at her older brother, he’d changed since she’d last seen him. His long hair clung to his clothes in greasy strings, his face with drawn and pinched; his gray eyes were sharp, and piercing as they settled on her. “Well where you off to in such a hurry Sis?” His grating voice scratched across her already exposed nerves. “None of you business.” Sara said her heart pounding as she tried to look for a way out. She couldn’t go back the way she’d come that would be too easy for them to follow her, and she needed to escape now before Harris decided he to kill her. “Is that anyway to talk to your loving brother?” Harris tone smoothed out to a sinking smoothness causing Sara’s gut to twist in revulsion. Gathering the reins she met her brother’s eyes with disdain, “Loving brother? I don’t have a brother.” She tightened her legs around her mount; she’d head up the hill toward the trapper’s cabin, double back and try to make it home before he caught her. It was a long shot, but it was the only chance she was going to get. Watching the three men she picked up on their impatience and shifted slightly in the saddle, her horse gathering himself at the movement shifted under her, alert and ready to fly at the slightest signal. “Where’s that dummy of yours?” Harris said noting the lack of fear in his sister’s eyes. It had been replaced with a confidence and self-awareness that disturbed him. She’d always been independent, self-reliance was important living as a trapper’s daughter, but she’d never shown him a lack of total fear before, and frankly he didn’t like it. Fear meant respect, respect meant he didn’t have to work to get what he wanted it was just given to him. “Go to hell Harris.” Sara whispered before kicking the gelding sending him up the deer trail between a stand a spruce trees and out of the beaten path’s ease. Allowing the horse to pick his way along she galloped toward the one place she was sure they would follow; she had to get away from Harris. The sound of hoof beats filled the air as she raced along, she knew they weren’t too far behind her and that made it hard to escape they’d see every move she made. Pulling up sharply she slapped the horse on the rump as she dismounted, the bay couldn’t follow this trail and if they were on foot all that much better she could move faster than they could. “Sara!” Harris’s voice had her stomach dropping. “You get back here girl, you’ve messed things up enough.” Gasping for breath Sara ran blindly. She didn’t know what was in her attacker’s minds but she had no plans to stick around and find out. Heart pounding, her breath coming in gasps Sara paused next to a tree and glanced behind her, she could hear them coming slightly which meant they were closer than she wanted them. Pushing off from the tree she headed along the trail, picking her way carefully amongst the rocks, stumps, and fallen trees. Stopping suddenly she stared at the drop in front of her, she’d come to the end of the trail. A glance to her left showed the trapper’s cabin in clear view, a glance behind her showed her brother and his cohorts were closing in on her. “What do you want?” Sara gasped backing away along the edge of the drop off. “Only what’s mine.” Harris replied. “You weren’t suppose to want him, you were suppose to just wait..” Harris paused as realization dawned in Sara’s eyes. “You sick bastard.” Sara whispered walking backward. “You sold me out.” “Of course.” Harris shrugged dispassionately. “You’re a valuable commodity.” “I hate you.” Sara hissed as her heel came into contact with air. She could hear the rocks falling down the embankment, the sand and gravel shifting, but the loudest sound in her ears was that of her heart pounding in fear and revulsion. Watching Harris coming toward her she knew he’d kill her this time, there wasn’t any way out of it unless she stepped back. “Hate me, love me.” Shrugging Harris kept walking toward her, he knew she was stuck, she’d never step back another step. “Don’t matter none. You should have just done as you was told girl, then you wouldn’t have the problems you got today.” Reaching under her coat to grab the knife she carried at all times, Sara heard the roar a second before a burning pain hit her in the chest, clawing at the air she tried to keep her balance, suddenly she was falling backwards, weightless and yet heavy at the same time. Like it was in slow motion, Sara watched the gun smoking in the hand of one of her brother’s cohorts and felt a moment of elation. At least Harris hadn’t had a chance to kill her. The elation faded as she hit the ground tend feet down the cliff, the sound of her body hitting echoed up to the men standing watching her fall and they shuddered at the cracking of bone even as she rolled down, her body falling over itself on the way down. Feeling her head connect with a something hard Sara was grateful for the darkness that surrounded her, dragging her into its depths where there was no pain, only a quiet sort of peace. She didn’t realize that unconsciousness made her body go limp, and she bounced off the impediments in her way with ease, she’d still be sore and bruised for a while but at least it didn’t kill her. “Well boss I’d say that she’s a goner.” The man who’d fired said standing next to his employer. “Yep.” Harris glanced at the man. “But the plan was for me to kill her, not you.” “Sorry boss didn’t want her to get to her gun and kill you.” The man drawled quickly and walked away, he preferred life from the back of a horse. Harris watched the small figure sliding, and tumbling down the rocky ground until she came to a rest with a thump at the bottom of the ravine, nearly a hundred feet below. Staring at her for a second he shook his head, “He’s gonna suffer with your death, that’s good enough for me.” Shaking his head he turned and headed back down the trail to where the horses were, he had a card game to get to. Groaning at the pounding in her head Sara opened her eyes and glanced around uneasily. She could feel the cramps low in her belly and the pain as she moved her head. Something told her she needed to get up. Taking her time Sara climbed to her feet, her hands raised to hold her head as a wave of dizziness struck her hard, sending her back to her knees. After several attempts to get to her feet, Sara glanced around gasping in pain as she blinked hoping to take the red tinge out of her vision. When that didn’t work she rubbed at her eyes and stared at the blood on her hands in horror. Whimpering she took a step and nearly fell as another wave of pure agony hit her soundly. Bracing herself she moved gingerly feeling the moisture running down the inside of her legs she glanced down uneasily. Pulling at her pants she stared at the blood that was creeping into the top of her boot, turning her wool sock a bright red. Wiping her hands on her blouse she didn’t notice the dirt, and scrapes as she jerked on her belt, she had to find out if she’d been shot in the leg. A quick glance told her that it wasn’t a cut that had caused the unusual bleeding, instead from the looks of things her little trip down the cliff had taken her baby from her. Sobbing at the loss of a life she hadn’t even known she was carrying she curled into the pain and leaned against the rock sticking out of the ground. “Why?” Sara rocked back and forth crying harder as the pain of broken ribs penetrated the fog in her mind. “What did I ever do? Why couldn’t you leave my baby alone?” She glanced heavenward and stood, she needed desperately to get home, to get to Ike if he hadn’t already left for Rock Creek; she had to follow him even if it killed her. Pushing off from the rock she headed toward home, her steps slow and agonized as she moved leaving bloody prints along the grass and rocks. Struggling to breath past the pain she had no idea how far she’d come as she stumbled and fell, rising she moved on only to fall again. Rising three more times she finally collapsed next to the creek she usually swam in. Dipping her head under the cold water she welcomed the cold of the water as she lay there desperately trying to catch her breath. A glance at the sky revealed it was late afternoon, and she knew she’d never make it back before dark, not at the rate she was walking. Crawling away from the water’s edge she curled into a ball clutching her body as she closed her eyes, the cramps from earlier had subsided into painful twinges now and then, leaving her to focus on the pain from her ribs. Ike paced the porch as darkness settled in; Sara had never been gone this late. Even when she got mad and went up to the Morgan place she was usually home within a few hours depending on when she’d taken off. Now he wished he’d gone after her to begin with instead of waiting for her to come home. “If she’s not back by morning we’ll go out looking.” Kid volunteered. Ike nodded and leaned back against the wall. Tonight was going to be a long night; he doubted if he’d sleep at all. Lighting a lantern he hung it off the porch and slipped inside to pour himself a coffee, his thoughts on the woman who hadn’t come in, ignoring the boys for the most part. Staring into their coffee the boys waited for the sun to come up uneasily, Ike shifting every few minutes and opening and closing the door didn’t help their nerves as they watched their friend as he struggled to find out what had happened without actually leaving the house. Sitting at the table for the first time since darkness had fallen Ike stared at the worn table with a frown, if she’d gone to the Morgan’s she’d have been back by now so the only thing he could think of was that she’d gone over to the trapper’s shack. “It’ll be daylight soon.” Buck said softly. “We’ll ride out then if you like, probably just stayed over at who ever’s place she was going to yesterday.” *She doesn’t stay at the Morgan’s long. Her and Lizzy don’t spend a lot of time socializing.* “Then why would she go up to her place?” Lou asked. *Cause she was in a foul mood. Lizzy can argue with the best of ‘em, sometimes Sara just needs to vent and Lizzy lets her.* “Now you’re confusing me.” Cody rubbed his head tiredly. “Why would she go to someone’s place to fight with them when she could stay and fight with you?” *We don’t fight. She don’t let her bad moods get in the way of other more important things. Besides, I can’t fight like Lizzy so there goes that idea.* Ike replied rising from the table to go to the window. “Maybe you two should learn?” Kid suggested glancing at Lou. “Makes things more interesting and it’ll clear the air.” *Thanks for your suggestion Kid but I happen to like things the way they are.* Ike replied stepping out onto the porch. Glancing at the moonlit trail he listened carefully, hoping to hear the familiar thud of hooves on the ground. Leaning on the railing he prayed she’d get herself home in one piece and before daylight otherwise he’d tan her hide when he caught up with her. Stepping back inside he didn’t see the dark colored horse come tearing down the trail, it’s saddle still firmly in place, as it smelled the familiar comfort of the barn. “I hear a horse.” Buck said rising with the others as they stepped out into the yard. Watching carefully they saw the lone horse-galloping rider less into the yard. The horse slid to a halt next to the corral as the boys raced to meet him, rearing he tossed his head angrily. He couldn’t smell his rider here; she’d left him alone on the trail earlier in the day without a clue what to do. “Isn’t that Sara’s horse?” Cody asked dumbly. “Yeah Cody.” Lou slapped him as Ike calmed the animal down. “Why not just hit him over the head with it.” “Sorry.” Cody shrugged holding up the lantern he’d grabbed. “Where the hell is she?” Kid glanced at Buck sharply. *She’s on the trail.* Ike signed desperately as he unsaddled the bay. *Something went wrong!* “How can you be so sure?” Kid asked. *She wouldn’t let him run off like that. If she’d seen him take off she’d call him back with a whistle. And if she were at the Morgan place she’d have unsaddled him.* “Dawn’s only an hour maybe hour and a half away. We’ll go out at first light. Come on Ike, better get some rest.” Lou said leading him from the corral *I should have..* “You shouldn’t have done anything differently. Maybe she got thrown, who knows. No point in worrying yourself into an early grave just yet.” Lou soothed as Buck glanced at Ike with a frown. “Lou’s right.” Kid stated. “We’ll go first thing see what we can find.” Someone’s got to stay here. If she’s hurt she’ll try to come back. Ike declared stepping inside, his face lined with worry. “I’ll stay.” Lou volunteered. “Kid’ll keep me company just in case there’s trouble, that way if she does come back one of us can come get you.” “Sure.” Kid agreed, he didn’t want to stay behind but he wasn’t going to upset Ike right now. *Okay.* Ike sat down at the table and reach for the coffee pot, they’d be off in an hour and he wanted to be ready. Staring into the dark brew he wondered what had happened. A chill shot through him as he thought of the man who’d shown up while he’d been here the second time he’d come since they’d become lovers. Harris Wilson had been an odd man, cold to the point of cruel, he’d ranted at Sara about something along the lines of ruining everything, he’d taken off shortly there after with the threat that he’d be back. Sara had said it wasn’t anything to worry about; Harris did it all the time he’d disappear for a few months and reappear in a better mood. Ike had seen the fear in her eyes though and the slight tremor in her hands as she’d moved around the place. “Is there something you haven’t told us?” *Just thinking of something that happened ages ago. I’d nearly forgotten it.* Ike replied. *Sara’s brother showed up, he’s a bit of an odd ball. Sara isn’t scared of very much, but she is of her brother.* “Why?” Jimmy asked. *I’m not sure. She’s never said, and I’ve asked her a few times. Just says he’s moody.* Ike shrugged pushing his coffee cup around on the table. “Starting to get light out.” Cody glanced at the window. “Might as well saddle up.” “Come on.” Buck patted on Ike on the shoulder, “I know it’s hard but we’ll find out what’s going on.” Standing on the porch Lou and Kid watched the others saddle up and head off in the direction Sara had ridden off in the previous morning. Glancing at Kid out of the corner of her eye, Lou wondered how she’d gotten things so tangled in her mind. It and been months since they’d been together, and while they were still close friends, she didn’t know if he still loved her. “I wonder if she’s gonna get in soon.” Kid mused, slightly uncomfortable with Lou although he trusted her with his life. Sometimes though it was hard to be around her, and right now was one of those times. “I hope so.” Lou murmured. “Ike’s about ready to kill her for making him worry.” “Naw, he’ll just yell at her some.” Kid shrugged, slapped Lou on the shoulder and walked inside to get another cup of coffee. Lou glanced behind her at the young man and sighed softly, she had to get to the bottom of this and now was as good a time as any considering they’d be there for a while. Pushing off the post she turned and walked inside, closing the door behind her. “So you gonna talk to me or stare at your coffee till they get back?” Lou asked leaning against the door. Seeing Kid flush as he glanced at her sharply she knew she’d hit the nail right on the head. Shaking her head she walked over and sat down at the table, “Come on Kid. I know something’s bothering you. You haven’t really talked to me in ages how come?” “Just got things on my mind.” Kid muttered uneasily. “Kid.” The soft tone drew a strangled moan from the young man sitting at the table holding his coffee in a white knuckled grip. “Talk to me.” Glancing up Kid stared at Lou for a few minutes before taking a deep breath, “What do you want to talk about?’ Sitting back in her chair Lou smiled, “What’s on your mind?” Shivering Sara struggled to get up, she’d spent the night drifting in and out of sleep against that rock and the cold temperatures mixed with the blood loss hadn’t helped her any. Struggling to her feet she forced herself to move, it felt like she was lifting feed sacks instead of her feet as she took each step and her chest burned with the exertion it took. Coughing slightly she tugged on her coat tails, hoping to pull it tighter around her waist although she didn’t think it would help her keep out the chill. The feel of sweat trickling down her back drew a shudder from her but she refused to acknowledge the discomfort. “Have to get home.” Sara whispered, repeating it like a lifeline. “Ike might be there.” Slogging through the dew damped grass she hardly felt the slippery surface, or saw the sun coming up over the treetops. Head down, she forced herself to keep moving even as her body cried out for rest. Stumbling she hit the ground with a strangled groan as shards of pain seemed to stab at her whole body. Gasping for breath, Sara put her hands in front of her and pushed herself onto her knees. Pausing she tried to gather her breath despite the pain in her lungs. Sitting back on her heels, Sara felt the cold steel of her spurs digging into her hips and laughed hysterically, she should have kept her horse then she’d be home by now. Moving slowly she fought her way to her feet, pushing back the nausea and dizziness that swamped her, pulling her into it’s murky depths as she climbed to her feet. Keeping her eyes on her feet she put one in front of the other slowly, each step dragging a little more than the previous one. Pushing at the hair that clung to her face she flinched when she pulled it from the bloody wound on her forehead where it had dried the night before. Feeling her breathing get shaky she paused sinking to the ground as a wave of dizziness over took her knocking her out. She didn’t have any idea how long she’d been lying there when she blinked at the bright light shining in her face. Pushing at it she turned her head into her arm and closed her eyes, all she wanted to do was rest. “Come on girl, you’ve got to get up!” The familiar refrain drifted into her mind as she gasped through the pain of coughing harshly. Struggling into a sitting position she gasped as another wave of coughing struck her. Pulling herself along she crawled to an outcropping of rocks, trees, and a few shrubs. Using them she pulled herself to her feet, hardly aware of the bloody mud that clung to her body, or the bruises on her face, hands and throat from hitting against so much debris on her way down the hill. A glance around told her it had to be close to noon, but more importantly she was only about half a mile from home. The familiar wind chimes Ike had made and strung up made a musical tinkling noise as a breeze kicked up. Resting against the trees she sucked in a short breath and started off again pushing her coat off her shoulders as sweat rolled down her face, streaking through the muddy blood that caked her skin. Wiping at the sweat she forced herself to keep moving, a fresh horse stood at the barn and she could get going to Rock Creek if he’d left already. Wincing as she stepped in a hole she stumbled, hitting the ground hard. Feeling like her lungs had collapsed she could hear her breath wheezing out of her chest and coughed. Tasting the acrid bite of blood in her mouth she spat hurriedly, wiping a hand across her mouth as she realized she might have punctured a lung. Praying silently that she hadn’t punctured a lung she kept walking although it felt like each step was tearing her legs off. Pausing at the edge of the pasture she glanced at the cabin, smoke still curled from the chimney, a paint and a black stood patiently waiting for their riders near the barn their heads hanging as though they were dozing. A quick glance revealed no other signs of life although Sara couldn’t be sure of that. Coughing harshly she started to the cabin, her steps sluggish as dizziness struck making her stop and hit her knees. Waiting until the dizziness passed she climbed slowly to her feet and started forward again. Lou glanced out the window as Kid shifted in his chair, he’d fallen asleep about two hours ago after their talk. For the first time in a long time she was confident in their relationship. Freezing she gasped as she saw the figure coming toward them, “Kid!” Dropping her cup she darted for the door as Kid came awake his feet hitting the floor. Racing toward the figure they saw her fall a couple of time before they got to her, the last time she struggled to get to her knees. Sliding to a halt next to Sara’s battered frame Lou looked at Kid with a horror stricken expression. “We’ve got to get her inside.” Reaching down she took a hold of Sara’s arm only to jump back when she swung at her. “NO!” Striking out, Sara jerked away from the grasp, she had no idea who was at her house, but she wasn’t going anywhere but the barn. She had to get to Ike. “Sara. Sara listen to me. It’s Lou, remember I’m a friend of Ike’s.” Lou spoke softly. “Have to go.” Sara croaked gasping for breath. “Go where?” Kid asked softly helping Sara up as she struggled to get to her feet. “Uh?” Sara paused as she tried to remember where she was supposed to go. “Ike?” “He’s out looking for you.” Lou whispered as Sara stumbled and fell. Shaking his head Kid bent at the knees and swung Sara into his arms despite her weak protests. Following Lou he carried her back to the house and inside. Setting her down next to the table, he helped her into a chair as Lou grabbed several buckets of water and poured them into the pots atop the stove to heat them. “I’ll go get Ike.” Kid suggested. “No stay here.” Lou declared with a glance at Sara who sat in the chair staring at the stove with exhaustion written all over her face. She shifted as the water started to boil, “Bring the tub over here.” Lou said as she spotted the basin sitting in a corner. Helping Kid carry it closer to the stove she glanced at Sara who’d started to doze off. “Sara?” Lou whispered touching her hand gently. “Sara we need to get you into the basin, get you cleaned up. Kid’s gonna go get the doctor.” “There isn’t a doctor here.” Sara whispered. “At least not one that will come up here.” “Why not?” “He doesn’t like me.” Sara whispered sleepily. “Mrs. Davies was a nurse.” “Where does she live?” “Ten miles down the draw.” Sara said as Lou went to work on her shirt buttons. “I’ll go get her.” Kid grabbed for his hat and gun. “Kid?” Lou waited until he faced her. “You’re gonna have to wait. I’m gonna need help.” “Awe Lou I ain’t..” Kid protested. “Please. I can’t lift her myself.” Lou replied smiling softly at him. “Besides it ain’t like you’ve never seen it before.” “Alright, but as soon as she’s in the tub I’m gonna go.” Lou nodded as Kid turned to face the wall before pushing Sara’s shirt off her shoulders, seeing the ugly gun shot wound high on her chest, Lou shuddered. “Sara?” Rocking back and forth Sara stared at the white tub; Ike should have been back by now. “I didn’t know.” She whispered. “Didn’t know what Sara?” Lou asked gently. “I didn’t know.” Sara repeated softly her eyes filling with tears. “He’s gonna be so mad when he finds out.” “Who’s gonna be mad Sara?” Kid asked kneeling next to Sara’s chair as Lou worked the blood encrusted garment free of her arms. He glanced at Lou as she unbuttoned the girl’s chemise and pushed it off her shoulders to reveal the tan of a woman comfortable outside. Ignoring her nudity, Kid turned Sara’s head toward him. “Sara who’s gonna be mad?’ “Ike.” Sara whispered although she couldn’t have said whom she was talking to. “Ike’s gonna kill me.” “Why do you say that? What didn’t you know?” Lou said standing Sara up and reaching for her pants. “Baby.” Sara whispered brokenly pushing at Lou’s hands as they worked on the buttons. “What baby?” Lou asked as Kid wrapped a towel around Sara’s shoulders for modesty’s sake. “Ours.” Sara shivered, she felt cold, too cold and she couldn’t move anymore. Sinking back into the chair she closed her eyes, all she wanted to do was sleep. Lou glanced at Kid who stared back at her shocked beyond belief. With a slight shake of her head Lou put off the questions until later. Pulling Sara’s pants off her legs Lou hissed in a breath at the multiple bruises and gashes down the young woman’s body and legs. What sickened her most though was the blood that had dried, caked to her pale skin along the inseam of both pants legs, and the grayish discoloration of Sara’s pants. “Come on Kid, we’ve got to get her into the bath.” Lou said softly as Kid lifted her into the water. “Looks like you’re gonna be stuck here. At least until I can get her clean and then we’ll have to get her into the bed.” “Then I’m going to go for Mrs. Davies?” “No then you go get Ike.” Lou replied quickly as Sara sank into the warm water. Lou noticed it went nearly red immediately. “Kid go get more water and put it on. We may be at this for a bit.” Nodding Kid headed outside with the buckets. He refilled them and carried them back inside before stepping out onto the porch to wait for Lou to call him. Kid had no idea how long he’d been sitting there watching the sun going down when he glanced up to see Ike and the boys returning. “Lou!” Calling her name he rose and stuck his head inside to see Lou getting towels ready. “Good you’re awake. Come help.” Lou grunted as she tried to get a very tired Sara out of the bathwater. It had taken most of the afternoon to get the blood and filth off Sara enough to put her into a nightgown. “Ike and the boys are back.” Kid whispered softly he didn’t want Sara to get upset just yet, besides that she looked like she was nearly asleep. “We’d best get her in bed, then you can go meet them.” Lou said. “Get Ike to take you to the Davies place.” “He ain’t gonna go anywhere when he realizes she’s here.” “Sure he will. But we’re gonna have to get her into bed first.” Lou replied as she pulled a fresh nightgown down over Sara’s wet hair. Pulling it out of the neck, Lou glanced at Kid as he lifted her patient and carried her into the only room with a bed in it. Laying her down gently Kid stepped back as Lou covered her. They glanced up at the sound of hoof beats. “Damn. I was hoping they’d take a little longer.” Lou swore as she ushered Kid out of the room. “Give me a hand with the bath water, and you can explain things to Ike.” “Why me?” “Because I asked you to.” Lou replied with a grin. “Besides I’ve got to clean up in here.” Lou glanced at the pile of clothes she’d decided to burn as the door opened and the boys walked in. Seeing their tired expressions Lou bit her lip as she glanced at Kid. “Has she come back yet?” Buck asked exhaustion in his voice, and in the droop of his shoulders. “Uh?” Lou glanced at Kid as Ike followed the boys inside. “Kid needs to talk to Ike.” “Thanks.” Kid muttered as he stepped past the boys, standing carefully in front of the pile of rags Lou had ordained being burnt. *Has Sara come back?* Ike demanded glancing between them. Seeing the worried expression on Lou’s face, and the uneasy expression on Kid’s he felt his stomach drop out from under him. *What happened?* “Come on Ike, we have to go.” Kid pulled him toward the door glancing at Lou when he put up a struggle. “Ike go with Kid he needs some help.” Lou ordered pushing Jimmy aside so he was blocking the bloody clothes still lying in a heap on the floor. “I’ll go with him.” Buck volunteered seeing Kid’s silent desperation. *Where are we going?* Ike demanded trying to pull away. “Uh the Davies’ place.” Kid replied quickly. *Why?* “Just thinking that she might need some help.” Kid croaked pulling the door closed behind him as Ike stood on the front porch staring at him. Once the door was closed Lou shoved Jimmy out of the way roughly and bent to gather the clothes they’d stripped off Sara. Opening the stove door she threw them inside and glanced at the boys. “Not one word out of any of you.” “What’s going on?” Buck asked sensing trouble. “Sara’s sleeping. And you’re gonna let her sleep for right now!” Lou replied watching Kid almost dragging a still protesting Ike toward the corral. “How bad is it?” Cody asked leaning on his rifle. Shaking her head Lou wondered just how much she should say, “Bad.” Was all she finally decided upon. Hearing movement from the bedroom she hurried inside leaving the door ajar. Seeing Sara struggling to get up she hurried to her. “Shh. Easy now, we’ll fix it.” “Go.” Sara gasped at the pain in her ribs. “Go where?” Lou whispered pushing the other girl’s dark hair out of her face. “Rock Creek. He went to Rock Creek.” Sara whimpered twisting as another bout of cramps hit her. “Who? Ike?” Lou watched her nod in affirmative. “No he’s with Kid they went to get Mrs. Davies.” “No he went..” Sara mumbled sleepily as she slipped into unconsciousness again. Sitting on the edge of the bed Lou glanced at the door and met the boys eyes a quick glance back at Sara told her the bleeding from the miscarriage hadn’t completely stopped. “Cody hand me a couple of towels would you?” She asked softly, it was gonna be a long night. “Here.” Cody handed Lou the towels and stepped back as Lou pulled the blankets down to reveal a spreading pool of blood on the white sheets and Sara’s once pristine nightgown. “What’s wrong with her Lou?” Lou glanced at Cody for a moment. “Ain’t my place to say.” “Come on Lou, we’re in this just as much as anyone.” Jimmy started from the doorway. “Alright, but you gotta promise not to say anything to Ike just yet.” Lou glanced at the boys. “Alright already.” The boys groaned and glanced at each other. “We promise.” “She’s miscarrying.” Lou muttered. “What?” Buck stepped forward shocked at what Lou had said, and seeing the shock on Jimmy and Cody’s face he wasn’t sure he wanted her to confirm what she’d said. “You heard me.” Lou muttered. “Now out of here. She needs to rest.” Stepping out of the room the boys settled at the table and stared at each other wondering what Kid and Ike were doing riding out to the neighbors place when they were needed here. Watching Lou light the lamps they sat sullenly waiting to hear the hoof beats marking their fellow riders’ return. “That ain’t normal is it?” Cody asked suddenly. “What?” “Miscarrying like that, I mean she had to fall or something right?” “Who knows.” Lou shrugged. “Being no expert on babies and having one the only thing I can say is miscarriages are a common occurrence, but they ain’t normal.” “That ain’t all that’s wrong with her is it?” Buck asked. “No, she’s been shot in the shoulder, bullet went clean through by the look of it.” Lou replied making coffee. “You guys hungry?” “Naw.” Cody wrinkled his nose at the thought of food and glanced at the bath basin. “Shouldn’t we get that out of here?” “Yeah, make yourselves useful.” Lou smiled shakily. “You can dump it by the back walk way.” “Thanks.” Grateful for something to do the boys rose to carry out the full tub ignoring the soap scum floating on the top or the pink tinge to the water from the blood that had coated Sara’s tiny frame. “Ike ain’t gonna be happy when he gets back.” Cody said as they dumped the water out and watched it run down the slight incline to pool in a muddy, slimy puddle in a dip in the land. “Nope.” Buck agreed. “He ain’t. God help the man that did it.” “We’d better be ready to ride.” Jimmy drawled. “If we ain’t, he’ll leave without us.” “I know.” Buck said watching the gathering shadows. His chest felt tight, as though someone was sitting on it and he wanted to curl into a ball and cry, his heart broke for his friend. Chapter Five Pulling up Kid watched Ike fight to keep going forward, sighing he shook his head. “Ike?” *Look Kid I know you’re trying to help but.* “No this isn’t about me.” Kid shook his head sadly. “Sara made it back, but you know that already.” *Yeah. And if we’re going to the Davies’ place it had to have been bad.* “It was. I’m sorry Ike.” *About what? Sara’s alive isn’t she?* “Yes but.” Kid paused unsure exactly how to tell his friend what Lou’d told him and what Sara had said. “Sara’s thinking you’re gonna kill her.” *For what? I knew she was feeling uncomfortable with all you around, that’s why she took off.* “It has nothing to do with our arrival. Sara was shot..” Kid started. *And she thinks I’d blame her for that?* Ike was shocked at the thought that his wife would think that. “No. She thinks you’re gonna kill her for losing the baby.” Kid moved Katy a couple of steps away unsure what Ike would do. Ike stared at his friend for a moment before shaking his head as though to clear it. *Come again?* “Sara miscarried.” Kid said softly. “She blames herself right now, her thinking isn’t too clear.” *How do you know she miscarried?* Ike asked slowly. “Sara said she didn’t know she was pregnant, and Lou said she had when Lou gave her a bath.” Kid replied as Ike swung down off his horse. *Then I should be at the house, not on the road to Mrs. Davies.* Ike declared. “Sara needs rest, and more medical help than Lou can give her.” Kid protested swinging down. *Buck can help.* Ike declared pacing back and forth his horse forgotten. Buck knows about medicines. “Not about miscarriages. Sure he knows what to do if your sick or shot but that don’t count when it comes to woman problems.” Kid dismounted quickly his grip on his reins tight as he watched Ike pace. *She say who did it?* “No, just kept saying you were going to be mad, and that she didn’t know.” Kid shrugged apologetically. “I don’t know what else to tell you.” *We’re going home.* Ike declared swinging back onto his horse. “But what about?” *Mrs. Davies isn’t going to be any help. Besides its not her responsibility to take care of my wife, it’s mine and by God that’s what I’m gonna do.* Sinking spur, Ike whirled his mount and headed back down the trail Kid hot on his heels. Buck glanced out the window at the sound of hoof beats. “Ike and Kid are back.” “That didn’t take ‘em long.” Cody pointed out. “No it didn’t.” Lou said rising to open the door. “I doubt if they got half way there.” She said seeing the fury on Ike’s face and the pinched look on Kid’s. Stepping out of Ike’s way she watched him walk past everyone and enter the bedroom, jumping slightly when the door closed she glanced at the Kid. “I take it things didn’t go very well.” “Nope.” Kid shrugged. “Once he knew, flat out refused to go to the Davies’ place.” “Well we’re gonna have to think of something. He’s gonna want to go find who did this.” Buck declared. “I know.” Sighing Lou glanced at the closed bedroom door, “The only problem is can we stop him?” “Why bother?” Jimmy said as he checked his guns over. “Don’t seem to be too much like he should be.” “I agree with Jimmy; Lou, it’s Ike’s call what we do.” Buck declared leaning against the counter. Kneeling next to the bed, Ike pushed the damp tendrils from Sara’s ashen face and watched her sleep for a couple of minutes. Seeing her eyes open slowly he smiled. Hi baby “Ike?” Sara closed her eyes as fresh tears well. “When did you get back?” *Just got in a few minutes ago.* Ike shifted tossing his hat and gloves onto the desk by the bed. *I’m sorry for hurting you.* “You didn’t.” Sara smiled weakly, “I did it to myself.” *What happened?* Ike asked as she drifted in and out of conscious thought. “Harris.” Sara whispered brokenly her eyes meeting his sadly. “I’m so sorry Ike, I didn’t know.” *Didn’t know what?* Ike smiled softly at her as she shifted in bed, the pained expression crossing her face breaking his heart. “About the baby.” Sara whispered tiredly. “I fell near the trappers shack, down that embankment.” *After you got shot?* Ike watched her nod her head slowly. *You just rest Darlin’, let us handle it.* “NO!” Sara struggled to sit up. “I’ll deal with Harris myself. I lost our baby, I won’t lose you to.” *You forget, I’ve got a hell of a back up team.* Ike smiled softly. *Besides Harris has it coming.* “Please Ike, let me handle it.” *I ain’t going after him just yet. You’re running off means I ain’t slept in two days, gonna get some sleep first before I do anything else.* Sara nodded, her strength rapidly fading as she snuggled deeper into her pillow. She knew Ike would go but not before he’d had a chance to rest. Seeing Sara fall back asleep Ike moved to sit in the chair next to the bed, his eyes never leaving the sleeping woman even as Lou brought in a lamp and set it on the table. Ignoring the slightly open door he kept a silent vigil over the woman sleeping so soundly, a reverent prayer crossing his lips now and then as he watched her move gingerly in her sleep. Jerking awake Lou glanced around as she sat up, Kid lay sleeping next to her, his arms wrapped around her waist, the others were sleeping soundly spread out along the floor their bedrolls covering them even as the glow from a fading fire threw shadows across them. “Its just Ike moving around.” Kid whispered pulling her back into his embrace. “Sara’s been kind of restless.” Nodding slightly Lou lay back down, unworried what the boys had to say since they’d bedded down together. The only thing they’d remarked on was that they’d need few pillows since Lou had a built in one. Shifting closer to Kid, Lou closed her eyes and drifted back into a light sleep. Sara coughed harshly as Ike bathed her face with a cold, wet rag. “Thirsty.” She whispered painfully as Ike held a cup of water to her lips. Drinking from the cup she made a face at the bitter taste but kept drinking when Ike refused to move it away. Sinking back onto the pillows Sara closed her eyes she knew she couldn’t stay awake; her body craved the sleep it needed to heal. Sighing as she felt the bed dip she turned her face into her pillow certain Ike had risen to take his place in the chair he’d occupied most of the night. She could have cried in relief when she felt him pull her back into his body his arm wrapping around her waist to hold her tightly as his hand splayed over her flat tummy. “I love you.” Sara whispered softly exhaustion claiming her as she felt his hands move. Smiling as she realized that his fingers spelled out the words she’d just said Sara relaxed, letting sleep finally claim her. The clatter of pots and pans woke Ike the next morning as the sun rose in the sky. Glancing at the sleeping woman next to him he lay still and watched her breath slowly, painfully her breath catching now and then. Moving slowly he rose from the bed, his clothes wrinkled and dusty, a haggard drawn look crossing his face as he made his way out into the kitchen. *Morning.* He addressed the boys as he headed for the cupboard. Pulling out the usual morning fare he glanced at the others as they watched him with a pained expression. *What?* “You’re cooking?” Jimmy asked. *Yeah why?* “Uh maybe Lou should cook, she can at least make it taste edible.” Cody suggested. Shaking his head at them Ike grinned for a split second before turning back to the stove. Sara had taught him how to cook for himself, she’d insisted in case he got hungry and she wasn’t home. Moving with practiced ease he made breakfast before glancing in on Sara who hadn’t move since he’d gotten up. “So you got any plans for today?” Kid asked the dreaded question, knowing the others wouldn’t. *Figured I’d head down to town. See Harris.* Ike replied setting a plate on the table. “He the one responsible?” Jimmy asked. Ike nodded. *Yes, only problem is he’s a gunman, I’m not.* “Yeah but you’ve got help.” Buck declared. Ike smiled at his friend. *Sara’s gonna be laid up for a while, she’s gonna need to be watched real careful like.* “What are getting at?” Kid stated quietly. *Just saying as long as Sara’s laid up I’m not going to Rock Creek.* Ike declared. “Wouldn’t expect you to.” Kid leaned back in his chair. “When you headed for town?” *After the stock’s fed.* Ike replied. “Which means after breakfast.” Cody declared digging in. Taking a bite of the fresh biscuits Ike had set on the table he paused and groaned. “Who ever taught you how to cook, did a hell of a job.” He said glancing at Ike. “Almost as good as Rachel’s.” “You’re kidding?” Reaching past him Jimmy grabbed one and took a huge bite. “You’re right.” “Who taught you how to cook and when?” Cody demanded. Ike grinned at them. *Who do you think? Sara taught me, had to learn sometime and since I spent most of my free time up here she insisted.* “Well she’s a helluva cook.” Cody declared. “Best instructor I’ve seen in a long time.” “Cody just eat.” Kid grinned at the other man. “We’ve got work to do.” After breakfast was finished, Kid did the dishes as the others filed out to feed stock, clean out the barn and get caught up on things before heading out. Glancing at Lou as she walked past him he smiled softly, “How’d you sleep last night?” “Not bad.” Lou smiled softly. “See you in the barn in a few.” Kid nodded as they walked out the door, a glance told him that Sara still slept soundly her breath coming in painful gasps, but it was better than not at all. Finishing up the dishes Kid stepped out onto the porch and headed for the barn unhurriedly a slight smile on his face as the boys glanced at him. “So you get any sleep last night?” Cody asked innocently. “What do you mean?” Kid asked the smile fading. “Just heard you talking up a storm last night is all.” “I said two sentences, that don’t make it a storm.” Kid shrugged as he headed for the tack room to get to his tack. “So what’s this Harris fella so bent out of shape over with Sara?” Jimmy asked as Ike saddled his horse quickly. *Don’t know.* Ike replied. *He just seems like he hates her all the time.* “Maybe he does. It ain’t unheard of.” Lou shrugged at the boys glance. “I heard about something like that at the orphanage before I ran away. Boy tried to kill his sister one night, it was horrible.” “I’ll bet.” Cody shuddered. “Why would anyone want to do something like that? Family’s important.” *Don’t much care as to the why of it.* Ike glanced at them. *But I’m gonna get to the bottom of this come hell or high water.* “Yeah. So who’s staying with Sara?” Jimmy glanced at Lou who stood against the corral her horse in still in the pen. “I am. Why you want to?” Lou smiled at his stricken face. “We won’t be too long Lou, keep your eyes open.” Kid said leading Katy out of the barn. “Take care.” Lou replied watching him. “And don’t do nothing stupid.” “No ma’am.” Kid grinned as he swung into the saddle. They’d done this often enough that they knew the routines of everyone. Glancing down at Lou as she put her hand on his thigh he smiled softly, “I’ll be careful.” “See that you are, or you’ll answer to me.” Lou muttered patting his leg as the others swung into their saddles. “Ride safe and don’t take too long.” “Yes mother hen.” Jimmy chuckled at Lou’s outraged expression before turning his horse away. Leaning down Kid stole a quick kiss before galloping out of the yard with the others, leaving Lou standing in front of the barn alone. Glancing over his shoulder he waved slightly before facing the front his mind drifting to the upcoming fight. Chapter Six Pushing the horses hard the boys rode into town close to one and pulled up at the livery. Swinging down they watched a man coming out of the barn’s shadows. “Well hell Mr. McSwain, I didn’t know you was in town.” The man walked up and shook Ike’s hand heartily. *Got some horses for you.* Ike took the man’s pad and wrote out what he was saying. “I see that.” The man said after reading Ike’s words. “The usual treatment?” Ike nodded and handed over the reins. *Come on.* “Where are you going?” Jimmy asked. *The one place in town Harris has to be.* Ike said pulling his hat down over his eyes. *The Silver Star Saloon.* “If you say so.” Jimmy declared falling into step with Ike along with the others. Glancing around he noted that people were watching them, but made no move to stop ‘em. “What’s with these people, you’d think they’d never seen a bunch of rough riding men before.” Ike grinned. *Not like this.* Stepping onto the boardwalk Ike swallowed a groan as he recognized the sheriff coming toward him. “Afternoon boys.” The sheriff a balding, pot bellied man swaggered up to them. “You boys looking for trouble, huh McSwain?” “Depends on what you call trouble.” Kid retorted. “Well I don’t like no trouble, you hear. Keep your nose clean and your guns in them holsters or I’ll arrest you.” “He’s gonna arrest us!” Cody laughed softly glancing at his companions. “Well Sheriff, seen as how we ain’t here to see you, I’d suggest you go find someone else to worry about.” Buck replied brushing past the little man. “I’m warning you boy, don’t start something you can’t finish.” The sheriff looked furious at the five men in front of him. *Move.* Ike stepped up the Sheriff and glared at him for a split second before walking past him, shoulder checking him as he went. “Afternoon Ike, where’s Sara?” A tall, thin man wearing a dusty old coat and black pants stopped Ike on thewalk. *Home.* “Not feeling well?” Ike shook his head negatively. *Harris around?* “In the saloon. He done got her didn’t he?” the man asked softly watching Ike’s stony expression. Swallowing hard he stepped out of the younger man’s way. “He’s got three men with him.” Ike nodded and moved along to the swinging doors of the saloon. Pausing before them he took a deep breath and pushed on them, stepping into the dark, smoky interior. The piano sat silent in one corner and the bar tender looked like he needed a break badly. There were only four tables occupied, several men wearing guns stood at a table watching a fast moving card game. Glancing around the room Ike stepped toward the table as the others followed. Stopping next to a blonde haired woman clinging to a man’s arm, he moved her out of the way, shifting slightly as he pushed his coat back, revealing his gun. “Well I see the dummy made it into town.” The man’s voice scraped across the room echoing coldly like the rake of nails on a chalkboard. Tossing a couple of cards onto the table he picked up the new cards he was dealt without glancing up at Ike. *Yeah I made it.* Ike flexed his fingers as the man continued to play cards. “Sorry about that girl of yours. Never could get her to do as she was told, right from when she was a baby.” Harris chuckled. “Course I’m sure you know that you being her uh husband.” “You think you’re a pretty big man don’t you Harris?” Buck translated Ike’s words knowing the others wouldn’t be able to follow him. “Don’t think it, know it boy. Now you boys want to move along. Ain’t got anymore to say to any of you.” Laying his cards down he jumped when Ike drove the knife he carried into them on top the table. “Too bad, cause I got lots to say to you.” Watching Harris, Ike felt only cold anger at the indifference and disregard he saw in the man’s face. He’d known Harris was dangerous, he just didn’t want to admit how dangerous. “You always this much of a pain? How does oh sorry, did she put up with you?” “Sara puts up with me just fine.” Buck stated quietly for Ike. Turning to face the bald mute Harris froze at the anger in the man’s eyes. “You’re bluffing boy.” Raising an eyebrow Ike stared hard at the man in front of him and pulled out the knife from the table. “Why’d you do it?” Cody demanded as Jimmy shifted next to him. “If you’re referring to my sister, she had it coming.” Harris said glancing at his gunman who stood patiently waiting a signal. “No. No woman deserves what you did to her.” Kid snapped fury in his tone. *Get up.* Ike grabbed Harris by the collar and lifted him out of the chair. Glancing at the door he saw the sheriff and nodded his head at Buck. *Trouble.* “Don’t worry about the sheriff.” Buck murmured. “He ain’t gonna do squat.” Shoving Harris roughly toward the door Ike kept a close eye on his friends as they backed out of the room. “You’re a dead man.” Harris snarled as he stumbled out the door. Seeing the crowd that had gathered he felt a chill trace his spine. “If I don’t kill you my men will.” “Ike says, your men won’t do anything.” Buck stated with a grin. “How’s it feel to be a dead man?” “Go to hell.” Harris jerked away from Ike turning to face him. Fury exploded in his gut as he stared at the one man standing between him and his goals. He’d known that windy day when he’d ridden in and seen the two of them laughing as they hung the wash up together that Sara had made her choice, she’d fallen and fallen hard. A glance at her had told him, she’d already at the bald man in her bed and he’d been furious. She was supposed to be his and yet another man had taken her from him. He’d made up his mind then and there to make her pay, and he’d done a good job of it killing her dreams when she’d fallen over the edge of the cliff. Now though faced with the man he’d come to see as an adversary he felt nothing but fury and fear a deadly combination as the man faced him with a stony expression. “You think you’re the only one?” Harris taunted the man, knowing he wouldn’t get a verbal response. *I know I am. But that ain’t the issue here.* Ike waited for Buck to translate. *You owe me a life.* “I don’t owe you anything.” Harris replied noting the way his hired guns had moved out into the street, backing him up. *I say you do.* Ike replied glancing at Buck. *You owe me my child’s life.* Harris paled at the translation “Child? She’d been pregnant when she’d fallen?” The thoughts raced around in his head as he heard the murmurs and gasps of those around him. It suddenly hit him, by killing Sara McSwain he’d killed himself. His men moved off slightly, unwilling to back a man they had doubts about, especially when that man was accused of killing a woman and her child. “You’re lying.” Harris gasped. Shrugging Ike tucked his coat behind his gun and backed off a few paces. He knew Harris was fast, he was a lot faster than him but he had no choice. Sara had been an innocent bystander in Harris’s grand plans and now she was hurt bad. Moving slightly the boys backed out of the way, they’d learned to stay out of Ike’s way when he got into the mood he was in. Moving they separated seeking an easy shelter when the shooting started. Keeping his eye on Harris, Jimmy knew exactly when he was going to draw and a slight move of his hand alerted Ike who pulled his gun, fired and dropped to the ground all in one motion. “Ike!” Pulling him out of the middle of the street the boys ducked behind the watering troughs, wagons and other cover in the street. “You didn’t kill him.” Kid said kneeling next to Ike as they returned the heavy fire they were receiving. Didn’t plan on it. Ike replied. He’s got to suffer first. “We just want the dummy, don’t have no bones to pick with any of you.” The harsh tone set the hairs on the back of their necks on end. “You take one on, you take us all on.” Jimmy declared watching him carefully, trying to pick up on a weakness that could be exploited. “Suit yourself.” the man shrugged. “I ain’t the one gonna be digging holes today.” Oh yes you will. Ike signed angrily. Glancing at Ike who’d followed him behind a water trough Kid smiled, “Well at least we’re sticking together.” “Yeah.” Ike grinned. “Shouldn’t have to be life or death though.” “True.” Kid ducked after firing a couple of rounds. “What I wouldn’t give for the Beckwith.” “It would be handy.” Cody agreed from where he was hunkered behind an empty wagon. “Hey you two, you hit?” Buck called from his position. “No, you?” “No, I think Jimmy’s hit but I’m not sure.” Buck pointed to where Jimmy was hid behind a set of steps. “I can’t hear what he’s saying from here.” “I’ll find out, cover me Kid.” Cody said crawling on his belly even as bullets drilled the ground around him. Ducking when they came too close she could smell the stench of blood and horse manure as he crawled in next to Jimmy. “You hit?” “Shoulder.” Jimmy declared with a grimace. “He’s got a sniper up there.” He pointed to the church steeple. “As long as he’s got a man there, we’re pinned down.” “Kid!” Cody drew his attention with a wave, “We need a distraction, Jimmy’s saying there’s a sniper.” “We’ll cover you. See if you can get a clear shot.” Kid replied ducking as another round of bullets tore through the water trough, cutting through the wood releasing the stagnant water over Kid’s shoulder and side. Cody nodded and lined up his shot, the familiar boom of his Hawkins echoed amongst the other riders, giving them a moment’s relief. The muddy ground near the trough stank of blood, sweat and whiskey as Kid struggled to keep his head down. Ducking Kid tightened his grip on the old colt he held and waited for the firing to settle before popping up and firing at the men across the way from him. Seeing one downed he ducked back down as Ike followed suit. As suddenly as it had started the roar of guns faded replaced by an eerie calm, glancing amongst them they got up slowly without holstering their guns. Moving together they stared at the sheriff as he walked toward them with a shotgun cocked. “Well looks like he plans on arresting us.” Jimmy said glancing at the street. “That’s what he thinks.” Kid muttered as the sheriff got closer to them. “Alright drop those guns boys.” The sheriff raised the shotgun an inch. “Well I wouldn’t do that if I was you Mister.” Cody shifted resting his hands on the barrel of the gun. “Could get you killed.” “I said drop ‘em. I’m arresting you for murder.” “Murdering who?” Buck asked. “Mister Wilson. He’s one of our more prominent citizens.” *He pays the sheriff’s wages.* Ike laughed suddenly. “What do you say Kid?” Jimmy glanced at his friend. “He said drop ‘em, didn’t say where.” Kid replied holstering his colt and turning to walk away. “I’ll shoot you buzzards down if I have to.” “Oh go home Sheriff, all you’ve ever done is sit and drink whiskey on our tax dollars. You want to do something. Clean up the street.” The shopkeeper stood glaring angrily at the man who held the shotgun. Shaking their head the boys turned and walked down the street, ignoring the stares and the whispers as they approached the livery. Ike smiled at the liveryman as he led their horses, saddled and ready to go out to them. “Say hi to Miss Sara for us won’t you?” The man said walking away as the boys swung into the saddle. Ike stared at the rough, weathered boards of the barn for a few seconds before smiling and turning to his friends. Lets go home. “Now that’s an idea I can appreciate.” Kid said as they galloped out of town. Hearing the dull thud of hoof beats Lou stepped out onto the porch her gun ready as she watched the run. Seeing who it was her face lit up as she dropped the gun on the porch and raced to meet them. “Well either she’s happy to see us..” Jimmy started as Kid did a running dismount that had even Buck whistling. “Or she’s happy to see Kid.” “I’d say the latter.” Cody chuckled as Kid wrapped her in a bear hug, the rest of the boys forgotten. Pulling up sharply in front of the house, Ike dismounted and hurried inside. Walking quickly past the table he slipped into his bedroom and smiled. Sara was awake although she looked groggy. *Didn’t wake you up did we?* “Yes you did, and I’m glad of it.” Sara smiled weakly. “I missed you when I woke up.” *Well I’m here now. I’m not going anywhere for a while.* “Good.” Sara said pulling him closer. “I’d hate to have to ride after you.” Smiling Ike pulled her into his embrace gently, ever mindful of her ribs. *As long as you come after me, I don’t mind.* Laughing painfully Sara glanced past her husband to see his friends standing in the kitchen. “Thank you.” “For what?” Kid asked. “Bringing him home.” “Don’t mention it ma’am. He would do no less for us.” Tipping his hat Cody glanced at the others. “Much as we might like to stay, Teaspoon’s gonna be hopping mad about now. What do you say we head home?” “Sounds like a plan.” Lou said as she glanced at Sara who was hugging Ike tightly. “Definitely sounds like a plan.” “Then lets go. Leave these two in peace, figure they’ll come along directly.” Kid said wrapping an arm around Lou’s waist as they walked out the door. Closing it softly behind him he watched Lou for a moment then grinned. As long as Lou was around he didn’t much care where he was. She definitely made the view a lot more attractive. “Come on Kid quit daydreaming and lets go.” Cody called as he swung onto his horse. “I’m coming Cody, hold your horses.” Kid said as he mounted the grey and turned back the way they’d come. The ride home was going to be nice and quiet! Email Destardi HOME