“Riders comin’’.” Lou looked out into the distance and saw that Rachel was right. However, instead of only two riders who were expected, she saw what looked to be three riders. She stood up curiously from the porch and walked out into the yard beside Jesse, waiting to see who the third person was.
“Who’s that?” Kid asked as he came to stand beside her. She looked at him startled and smiled. She shrugged her shoulders and waved to Buck as he mounted his horse to accept the battered mochilla from the returning Jimmy and Noah. The three weary riders pulled to a halt not far from the trio.
“Looks like you brought us some company boys.” Kid said.
Lou studied the stranger from below lowered eyes and felt her face flush. He was one of the most handsome men she’d ever seen. He was tall, with a slender build. His eyes and long hair, which was tied back in a thick pony-tail at the back of his neck, were dark and his features were chiseled. He smiled and flashed his white teeth and Lou liked him immediately. He jumped down from is horse and extended his hand to Kid.
“Hallo, the name’s Ryan, Ryan Murphy. I’m your latest addition.” He said graciously as he moved his eyes to sweep in Lou and Jesse.
“New rider? We didn’t hear nothin’ about a new rider.” Kid said suspiciously.
Ryan’s smile faltered for only a minute, but he regained his composure and reproduced a ragged piece of paper from his pocket. He handed to Kid and said almost apologetically, “Well, they didn’t have time to send word before hand, so they decided I could deliver it personally.”
Kid looked at it and transferred his gaze to Jimmy and Noah, who merely shrugged. He handed the man the article and smiled. “Well, welcome aboard I guess. I’m Kid and this here is Lou and Jesse. You just missed Buck and Cody is in town with Teaspoon, the station master. Rachel saved some lunch for you all, so we can take your horses for you if you like.”
“ Thank you very much Kid, but I’d prefer to take care of my own horse.” he replied quietly.
Noah and Jimmy had since then dismounted their steeds and handed the reigns to Kid and Jesse. “Well, we’re starved so you can take care of our horses Kid. Much obliged.” Noah said smiling as he followed Jimmy into the bunkhouse to eat.
Lou watched as Kid, Ryan and Jesse made their way to the stable. There had been something in Ryan’s eyes when he looked at Lou that didn’t sit too well with her. It was as if he’d known what she really was. She quickly dismissed it though because she’d been living like this around people she’d known for a few years and they’d never guessed her secret. There was no way that a stranger she’d just met would know, would he? She pushed her thoughts aside and walked back towards the house to reclaim her spot on the porch.
*****************************************************************
Teaspoon looked across the table at the newest member of their team. There was something about the young man that he didn’t like. he knew it was unfair, and chalked up his suspicions to the fact that he was wary of having anyone in to replace Ike. The others seem to feel the same way and kept their conversations with him short and cold. If Ryan noticed, he didn’t act like it.
“So son, where you from? You speak kinda funny.” Teaspoon finally said as Rachel started clearing the dishes.
“Oh, I was born in Ireland, but I came over here eight years ago”
The others looked at him in interest, but it was Kid who spoke for the rest of them. “Why’d you come here?”
“I was seventeen, I wanted adventure and this place seemed as good as any. I stowed away on a merchant ship, but was found out about halfway through the trip. The captain was a good man though and he let me work off my fare rather than throw me overboard.” he laughed.
“They could have thrown you overboard?” Jesse asked wide-eyed.
“He’s just sayin’ that to scare you Jesse.” Kid said arrogantly as he stood up to go outside. Lou gasped at Kid’s remark and glared at his back. She turned back to apologize, but he was laughing. She stared in confusion as he stood from his place and bowed to Rachel.
“That was fantastic cookin’ Miss Rachel.” as he exited through the door, Rachel looked at Lou and smiled.
“Well, I’ll be, we finally have a boy with some manners.” The two women laughed, while the boys just glared.
“Yeah, can’t say much for the rest of ‘em though.”
“What’s that supposed to mean Lou?” Jimmy snapped.
“Oh come on Jimmy, you guys have barely said two words to him, and when you do talk, you insult him.”
“Ike ain’t been dead two weeks and you already forget your loyalties.”
“That’s not fair and you know it Jimmy. I cared for Ike just as much as the rest of you, but bein’ mean to Ryan ain’t gonna bring him back. He’s just doin’ his job, you could cut him some slack.”
“The only reason you’re stickin’ up for him is because you like him.” Cody added.
“What are you talkin’ about?” Lou demanded
“Oh get off it Lou. You been lookin’ at him like a lost puppy.”
“I have not!” Lou exclaimed angrily.
“You’re just tryin’ to make Kid jealous. Give it up Lou, he don’t care no more.” Jimmy accused.
Lou looked in shock at Jimmy and had to fight the tears that sprung to her eyes. She stormed out of the room, trying to control the sobs racking her body.
Rachel looked at each of them in fury. Jimmy glared back at her defiantly and asked, “Don’t tell me you don’t see how she’s makin’ a fool of herself.”
“Let me remind you boys about something right here and now. Anytime any of you boys were makin’ fools of yourselves in front of some pretty face, Lou was always rootin’ for you. Lou has always supported you, and what you just did was uncalled for and plain mean. And as for you Jimmy, she don’t need to be reminded about Kid. I thought you were her friend.”
They all had the grace to look ashamed, but they wouldn’t admit they were wrong, even to themselves. Rachel continued lecturing them for ten more minutes before she dismissed them. She turned her anger on Teaspoon and said, “You could have helped me you know. They follow your example and you been actin’ just as bad as the rest of them.”
Teaspoon knew it wasn’t wise to argue with Rachel when she was this angry, so he sat through another ten minutes of lecturing before he escaped.
Lou was a ball of fury as she walked by the waterhole. She couldn’t believe what they’d said to her. She missed Ike as much as them and to be called disloyal was too much. She knew they were all still hurt and grieving, but it wasn’t fair to shun Ryan, or to turn their tirades on her. Especially Jimmy’s last comment, You’re just doin’ this to make Kid jealous. How could she explain to them that it didn’t matter what she did, Kid wouldn’t ever feel the same way about her again. They were still friends, but that was it. Lou wanted to be able to tell Kid that she’d marry him and spend the rest of her life with him, but she just wasn’t ready. It wasn’t that she didn’t trust Kid, but she needed to make her own way before she settled down for good. She’d seen what happened to her mother and she wouldn’t let that happen to her, not for Kid, not for anyone.
She was broken out of her reverie when a soft voice called to her, “Gettin’ too cold back in there for you?”
She looked around and spotted Ryan sitting on a log. She walked over and sat beside him and smiled. “Actually it was gettin’ a little too hot.” After a long pause she looked at him and said quietly, “You know, it’s not you they dislike, it’s the idea that you’ve come to replace Ike. We all loved him, he was family...so anyway, I just wanted to let you know that it’s goin’ to take a little time for them to get used to you.”
“So I gather. I know it’s tough for them, but I’m willin’ to wait. Afterall, Rome wasn’t built in a day.”
“No, I guess not.”
He looked at her sharply, “You know the meaning of that reference?”
She looked at him like he was crazy and nodded her head. “Of course I do.”
“”It’s just that...usually when I say that, no one understands...”
“My ma was a school teacher before...well, anyway, I better be gettin’ back.”
“Tell me somethin.” Ryan said as he stood beside her. She looked at him from behind the large spectacles and waited. “Do the others know.”
“Know what?” Lou asked suspiciously.
“That you’re...a girl.” Lou gasped and took a step back.
“How did you know?”
“What do you mean? Look at you, your features are too soft and your eyes are too expressive. Your hands are too small and your shape too feminine.”
Lou looked at him in wonder, debating whether he was complimenting her or not. She blushed and responded quietly, “The others here know, but no one in town does, and they can’t find out, do you understand.”
“Yeah, but no one told me.”
“Told you what?”
“That the people here were blind.”
“What?” Lou asked confused.
“Well, they must be if you’ve been passin’ for a man.”
Lou laughed and smiled at him shyly. They both headed back to the bunkhouse in silence and Lou blushed to herself as she thought of his compliments. She wasn’t used to hearing herself praised like that, except for those rare times when she dressed like a lady and one of the boys would say something. The only other person who ever complimented her when she was in her disguise was Kid. Kid, why can’t I go through a day without thinking of him. She shook him from her thoughts and smiled as Ryan opened the door for her. Oh Lou, what have you gotten yourself into this time she thought to herself as she entered the room.
******************************************************
Kid walked into the barn and stood in front of Ryan, who was tossing hay into each of the horses stalls. He cleared his throat to get the other man’s attention.
“Uh Ryan...I’d like to apologize for last night. I know it ain’t no excuse, but it’s just that it’s kinda hard to accept the fact that Ike is gone. But with you here, we have to accept it and I think that’s why everyone has been less than...um friendly.”
Ryan smiled at the slightly shorter man and extended his hand. “I understand Kid. I ain’t here tryin’ to take anyone’s place, I just want to earn enough money to send for my family.”
“Your family?”
“Yeah, I have two brothers and a sister. I wanted to bring them over with me when I first came, but I was just a kid.”
Kid looked at the man in admiration. Maybe he ain’t as bad as I thought.
***********************************************************
“Lou, wait up, can I talk to you for a minute?” Lou turned around in mid-stride to see Cody approach her, somewhat hesitantly. She tried not to smile because she remembered she was supposed to be mad at him.
“Look, there ain’t no easy way to say it, so I’m sorry, alright? I was wrong and I’m sorry.”
“Well, I’ll be, I never thought I’d live to see the day that William Cody would admit that he was wrong.”
“Come on Lou, that ain’t fair...”
“Oh, I’m just teasin’ Cody. Apology accepted.”
He looked relieved and a twinkle appeared in his blue eyes. “Hey Lou, can I uh...can I borrow ten dollars?”
“What? Are you crazy? You still haven’t given me the last ten dollars back.”
He laughed and ran back towards the bunkhouse as she made her way to the stable to get Lightning ready for her run to Willow Springs. She passed Jimmy but didn’t say a word. He’d really hurt her last night, even though she’d never admit it to anyone but herself. Of all the riders, she never thought it would be Jimmy to hang Kid over her head. He avoided her eyes, but made no move to apologize.
She walked into the barn and found Ryan talking quietly to his horse. He had taken his shirt off and a thick sheen of sweat covered his muscular back. She felt like an intruder, but she had to get Lightning. He turned around at the sound of her footsteps and smiled as he saw who it was.
“Mornin’.” Lou said as she headed towards Lightning’s stall.
“Hey, I already got Lightning ready for you. Rachel told me you were scheduled for a run today, so I figured I do you a favor.”
“Thankyou.” she smiled as she took the reigns from him, blushing as their hands brushed.
“How long are you going to be gone for?”
“Depends.”
“On what?”
“On whether the bank drafts are on time or not. In my experience, they’re always late.” she smiled.
“Well, what if they’re on time?”
“If they’re ready when I get there, I should be back by supper time tomorrow.”
“Well, ride safe.”
“Always.” Lou said as she led Lightning in to the yard.
Jimmy watched Lou ride away into the horizon and felt a pang of guilt. He knew that he’d hurt her, but somehow he couldn’t bring himself to apologize. He was angry at her and he didn’t know why. He knew he’d taken a cheap shot last night with that remark about Kid, but it had come out of his mouth before he knew what he was saying. He saw Ryan emerge from the barn and felt that he owed him an apology too. He kicked the dirt in frustration, and stomped onto the porch. He watched as Buck dismounted and came face to face with the new rider.
Jimmy hoped they would fight, or that Buck would throw dirt in his face, anything to cause a confrontation. However, Jimmy was disappointed as Buck extended his hand and smiled at the man warmly. As Ryan obligingly took Buck’s horse, Jimmy stood on the porch, ready to question Buck.
“Why you shakin’ his hand?” Jimmy asked angrily as Buck stepped onto the porch.
“What are you talkin’ about Jimmy?”
“Don’t you know why he’s here?”
“Look Jimmy, I knew they’d be sending someone sooner or later to replace Ike, it was inevitable. Me bein’ angry ain’t helpin’ Ike and he wouldn’t have wanted it that way.”
“Well, you should see the way Lou looks at him, you’d think she was in love.”
Buck’s eyes suddenly filled with understanding. He shook his head and smiled tightly. “You not likin’ him ain’t got nothin’ to do with Ike. It’s about Lou.”
“What in the hell are you talkin’ about?”
“You can deny it to me, but you think about it Jimmy.” was all Buck said as he entered the bunkhouse.
Jimmy sat down heavily. He’s crazy, this ain’t got nothin’ to do with Lou. Oh damn James, it has everything to do with her. Jimmy hadn’t had a problem with the man until they’d gotten back to Rock Creek and he saw the look in Lou’s eyes. He was jealous because Lou obviously liked the man, more than she was willing to admit. He knew it wasn’t fair, but he couldn’t help the way he felt. Even after Kid and Lou broke it of, Jimmy knew he could never go against the silent code of loyalty and pursue her. He was too loyal to Kid, but he still dreamt about her sometimes. And now, Ryan, who was not bound by any loyalty to the Kid, had a fair chance of winning the heart of the woman he loved. He buried his face in his hands and moaned.
**********************************************************
Lou looked behind her frantically and found that she’d lost her pursuers. She’d been halfway home, the bank drafts had been surprisingly on time, when she rode into an ambush of men. She’d stopped to water her horse, when out of nowhere, five men charged at her, guns raised. She’d backed up towards the pouch and looked around her for a way out.
“Look little feller, we don’t want to have to kill you, but we need them drafts.” the leader, an old grizzled brunette had said.
“Why?” Lou had asked trying to buy time.
“Look, we don’t have time to explain, now are you gonna give it up, or do we have to take it?”
Lou had since secretly slipped her Hand into the pouch and had emptied it’s contents into her pocket, not the most secure place, but there weren’t many options. She smiled and threw the mochilla onto the ground. The five men dove for it simultaneously, and Lou took the opportunity to jump on Lightning. Just as she started away, she heard the cries of dismay from the men.
“That snivelin’ bastard, get him boys.”
Lou had turned around to see how far they were when she felt something rip into the flesh of her upper arm and knew she was done for. She didn’t give up however and spurred her horse faster, trying to get away, despite the incredible pain in her arm.
She’d been riding for a few hours now and was sure she’d lost them. Her eyes filled with tears of relief as the waystation came into view. She almost collapsed with exhaustion on Lightning, but somehow she kept her composure. She was surprised when no one came out on the porch, which was almost ritual for returning rides. She got off Lightning, wincing in pain and stumbled towards the house looking for someone.
She made it as far as the porch before she stumbled to the ground. She looked down at her arm and saw that the blood hadn’t stopped pouring from her wound. She didn’t even know whether the bullet was still in her arm, but she knew she had to stop the blood loss and fast.
“Is anyone here?” Lou shouted in frustration
When no one answered, she closed her eyes in defeat. She was feeling dizzy and Lightheaded and knew there was no way she’d make it into town, even if Lightning were in the condition which was sadly not the case. She’d pushed the horse too hard and he looked ready to collapse.
Her eyes flew open suddenly as she heard the approaching sounds of horses. She thought it might be the boys returning from wherever they’d gone, but she put that thought down as the saw the shadows of guns held high and knew they were her attackers. She struggled to her feet and ran into the house with the last of her reserves. She began looking around frantically for any weapons. She’d be no match against five other men, especially in her present condition, but she wasn’t going to let them kill her without a fight. If only the others had been here. That’s when she noticed the note left for her on the table.
Lou, The church is holding a dance tonight. Come join us when you get in. Rachel. Lou balled up the note in fury and sank to her knees. Why was everything going against her suddenly. She jumped as she heard the man she’d encountered earlier yell,
“Come out boy, you have something that belongs to us, and I promise you this time, we ain’t goin’ to be so nice.”
**********************************************************
Jimmy smiled at Buck as he looked over at Ryan dancing with one of the pretty residents of Rock Creek. He seemed to be having a good time and was not at a loss for partners to dance with. Buck narrowed his eyes and asked quietly, “What are you so happy about?”
“I just wish Lou were here to see this.”
Buck stood up disgustedly and turned away from Jimmy, walking towards the door. Kid walked over cautiously and sat beside his friend. “Whoah, what’d you say to him?”
“Doesn’t really matter. But tell me, why ain’t you dancin’?”
“Haven’t found the right partner.” Kid said quietly.
Jimmy looked at his friend surprised and knew that he still cared for Lou, no matter how hard he tried to hide it. Jimmy didn’t know what to say, so he cleared his throat and looked away. Just then a pretty blonde approached the two men and smiled winningly at Kid.
“You haven’t asked me to dance all night.”
“What could I have been thinking.” Kid said as graciously as possible before offering his arm and leading her into the middle of the dancefloor.
Jimmy suddenly stood up from his chair and headed out the door. He knew he had to go apologize to Lou and try to explain to her that he didn’t want her to get hurt again. There was something about Ryan that he didn’t like, and it had more to do with Lou’s interest. With any luck, she’d be home now and he could talk to her alone.
**************************************************************
Lou removed her jacket, gasping in pain. She had to hide the jacket or they’d find the bank drafts once they killed her. She stuffed it under Kid’s bunk and moved to the other side of the room, removing her gun and aiming it at the door. Before she knew what was happening, bullets began spraying through the doorway and windows. Lou ducked and lay close to the ground. Suddenly, the door burst open and she backed up towards the wall in fear.
“Give us what we want and we won’t make you suffer too much before we kill you.”
“I...I don’t know what you’re talkin’ about. I already gave you...” but before she could finish, the man struck her across the face, effectively knocking her to the ground. She lost her grip on the gun she’d been holding behind her back and the other’s laughed as she tried to get it.
The leader pulled her roughly to her feet and laughed some more as she panted in pain. He tightened his grip on her wound until she cried out in agony. Something in her face struck him and without warning, he tore her shirt open, revealing a thin white undershirt, which didn’t hide her decidedly female form. He looked at her again and snatched her hat and glasses away.
“My, my, my. What do we have here?” Lou flinched as he brought his rough hand to caress her face. “Boys, it seems like we have a lady among us.”
The others laughed and eyed her hungrily. She shivered violently, not only from the cold night air which now assaulted her, but also from fear of what was to come if the boys didn’t get back, and soon. “We are goin’ to have fun with you.” he smiled evilly.
“Hey Frank, shouldn’t we be gettin’ out of here soon? Whoever stays here could be comin’ home real soon.”
“Are you tryin’ to order me around? Just remember who leads this outfit. Matter of fact, since you’re so anxious to get out of here, you go check the horse to see if the drafts are here while me an’ the boys entertain ourselves with this pretty Miss.”
The man looked like he was about to protest, but obviously thought better of it. Instead he cast a long gaze at Lou and walked out of the door. The man called Frank turned his attention back to Lou and laughed. He pulled her closer and leaned into her. She spit in his face and as glad when he threw her to the ground.
“Oh, you are goin’ to pay for that.” he said maliciously as he reached for her.
********************************************************
Jimmy’s pace slowed as he approached the station and heard the soft nickering of horses, instead of the silence that should have greeted him. He stopped beside the wall of the house and looked a few feet further, spotting a suspicious man rifling through Lou’s things. He looked around but couldn’t see Lou, and suddenly he felt a knot in his stomach. He heard a cry come from the house and then the laughing of men. Jimmy narrowed his eyes and guessed what was happening. He just hoped he wasn’t to late to prevent them from hurting Lou. He stealthily sneaked behind the man and put his gun to his head, clicking the hammer back.
“If you say one word to the others, I’m sending you straight to hell.” Jimmy warned quietly. “What in the hell are you doin’ here?”
The man swallowed hard before he answered. “We tried robbin’ an express rider earlier, but he...or she tricked us and we followed her here.”
“Is she hurt?”
“Frank shot her in the arm...and now he’s gonna have some fun with her.”
“Over my dead body.” Jimmy whispered tightly as he prodded the man forward towards the house.
As they entered, the other men took no notice because they were watching gleefully as Frank tried to pull Lou’s trousers off. A blind fury engulfed Jimmy as he realized what would have happened if he hadn’t shown up. Without a word, he began shooting the men closest to him. One by one the thieves fell to the ground clutching at wounds, until only Frank was left. He edged away from Lou, his hands high in the air. Lou looked at Jimmy through swollen eyes, but he avoided her gaze and leveled his gun at Frank.
“Jimmy, he ain’t worth it.” Lou cried. Jimmy seemed not to hear her though as he fired his gun, instantly killing the cruel man. He stared at the dead man for a few moments before he rushed to Lou. He knelt beside her and looked at her arm, his eyes wide with shock at the amount of blood escaping. Jimmy gathered her in his arms and took her on shaking legs to Kid’s bunk, where he gently laid her.
“Lou...I gotta go get help.” Jimmy said as calmly as he could, not wishing to alarm Lou. He was afraid for her. The wound was definitely serious, maybe if it had been treated earlier, it wouldn’t have posed a threat, but she’d lost a great amount of blood and her face was deathly pale. Lou didn’t seem to have the strength to speak so she just nodded her head and closed her eyes. Jimmy became alarmed as her breathing became more shallow. He rushed out of the bunkhouse and raced across the yard to go into town. However, he didn’t have to get far before he met up with teaspoon and the others.
“What’s goin’ on son? We heard gunshots.”
“Lou...she’s hurt and...”
Kid didn’t wait for Jimmy to finish as he raced across the property. He entered the bunkhouse out of breath and crashed to his knees beside Lou’s still figure. He felt sick as he saw her wound, and looked in curiosity at the dead mean littered in the room. He brought his hand to touch her cheek, which was decidedly wan. Her eyes suddenly opened in terror and she began to struggle, but Kid’s hands were gentle as he held her down and tried to soothe her.
“Shh...it’s me, Kid. You’re all right now, no one’s goin’ to hurt you.”
She calmed down and tried to speak, but Kid pressed his finger to her lips. “Save your energy Lou. We got to get you fixed up.”
Suddenly the others burst into the room and looked at the scene around them with a nauseated feeling. Jimmy had informed them of all that had happened and they knew what would have happened to Lou if Jimmy hadn’t intervened in time.
“Boys, get these...vermin out of here.” Teaspoon ordered gruffly. He softened his voice and walked over to Lou. “How you doin’ sweetheart?”
Lou smiled bravely, but something in her eyes warned teaspoon that they had to act quickly. He was about to issue another order when Ryan suddenly appeared beside him.
“I have experience in this area Teaspoon. I need to get that bullet out quick and stop the bleedin’.”
“What do you need son?”
“First I need you to get some more light in here. I’m goin’ to need some boiled water, a nice long, thin knife, and a couple of bandanas.” The other’s overheard this and quickly set to task, gathering the equipment. Kid stayed by Lou’s side, refusing to budge. Even as Ryan gathered her in his arms and carried her to the table, which had since been covered with a few blankets, he continued to hold her hand.
“Lou, this is goin’ to hurt, I ain’t goin to lie to you, so brace yourself.” However, Lou had since then flitted into unconsciousness. Jesse looked at the others in distress, but no one seemed to notice except for Rachel.
“Jesse, why don’t you go and take care of Lou’s horse. She’ll be real thankful when she wakes up.”
Jesse nodded and wordlessly left the bunkhouse. Jimmy, Cody, Buck, Teaspoon, and Noah had since moved to the porch and began pacing nervously. Kid pulled a chair up beside the table and pulled Lou’s hand to his lips. Ryan looked at him annoyed and said quietly,
“Kid, why don’t you go and wait outside with the others. This isn’t going to be pretty.”
“I’m not leaving.” Kid replied without looking up.
Ryan sighed audibly and picked up the gleaming knife. He looked at Lou’s face, contorted in pain and almost didn’t want to proceed. Wordlessly he dug the knife into her arm, searching for the bullet. She screamed in agony and tried to sit up, but Kid abruptly pushed her back down, holding her shoulders firmly against the surface. Both men tried to ignore the anguish-filled cries that escaped from Lou’s lips, hoping the job would be done soon.
After what seemed like hours, Ryan finally removed the deeply-imbedded bullet. Kid’s eyes seemed to flood with relief, but Ryan knew the worst of the task wasn’t yet finished. He wiped blood from her arm and walked over to the blazing fire. He placed the tip of the iron poker into the fire, waiting till it shone a dull red before walking back toward Lou. Kid looked at him in alarm and was about to protest when Ryan held his hand up.
“Kid, she’s lost far too much blood. We can’t just wait for it to stop, we have to seal the wound. Now, I need you to hold her still.” Kid nodded, dazed and looked down at Lou’s tear-streaked face. Suddenly, Ryan brought the tip to Lou’s wound and closed his eyes as her flesh sizzled. She let out a scream that would haunt him for the rest of his life, but then fainted from the pain. Kid looked at him in horror and back down at Lou. He released his grip as Ryan pulled the poker away, satisfied that blood was no more oozing. He let the iron rod clatter to the floor as he wiped the remaining traces of blood from her arm. He turned his gaze to Kid.
“You have to let the burn breathe, you hear? Don’t bandage it up.” was all he said as he walked out of the bunkhouse and into the darkness.
********************************************************
You have a job to do, you can’t start getting feelings for these people Ryan thought to himself as he washed Lou’s blood from his face and hands. He silently berated himself for his lapse in judgment. It would have been better to have let her die, then he could have brought in another of his partners. However, he knew that he couldn’t have just watched as she bled to death. For some reason he couldn’t quite explain, he cared about the small girl, who he didn’t even know.
He looked across the yard as teaspoon’s deputies began loading the dead thieves on a buckboard. Fools, if you’d waited like I told you, you wouldn’t be dead. He whirled around as footsteps caught his ear. He recognized Jimmy’s tall form.
“Hey...Ryan, I just wanted to thank you for saving Lou’s life. We all do...I know we haven’t all been that welcomin’, but we appreciate it.” Jimmy said quietly as he extended his hand.
Ryan smiled and took Jimmy’s proffered hand. Maybe it wasn’t such a bad idea saving her life. I’ve won their trust. This is going to be easier than I thought. He thought as he followed Jimmy back into the house.
**************************************************************
Lou opened her eyes and and tried to ascertain where she was. Kid’s worried face peered over hers and he smiled. She tried to sit up, but he gently restrained her. Suddenly, she remembered the events of the previous night and her eyes grew wide with terror. Kid understood her look and took her tiny hand in his.
“It’s all right Lou. Those men are never goin’ to hurt you again. You’re safe.” Lou tried to speak, but her voice was hoarse from the previous night’s shrieks. Kid placed a gentle kiss on her forehead before he rose to get her a glass of water.
She looked across the room and saw that bright rays of sunlight were shining through what was left of the glass in the window. She saw that they’d removed the broken glass from the floor and the door was taken off it’s hinges, allowing for a slight breeze to rustle through the room. Kid followed her gaze as he handed her the cool liquid.
“The boys are makin’ a new door.” He explained. She nodded and then gulped down the water. She finally looked at her arm and grimaced as she saw the ugly burn. She remembered everything from last night and shivered as she thought about the pain. Now though, her arm was only throbbing.
“I thought they were goin’ to kill me.” she finally croaked, fighting the tears that sprung to her eyes. “I came back and no one was here and they showed up and...”
“Shh...Lou, you’re gonna be fine. Jimmy saved you.” Kid said, adding the last part almost bitterly. She looked into his eyes and saw the love that still shone through.
“Oh Kid...” she began, but was silenced as he brought his lips to hers. The kiss was soft and gentle, but filled with passion.
“Lou...I love you so much. If something were to have happened...” Now it was Lou’s turn to comfort. She brought her hand to caress his cheek and brought his head down to hers.
“Kid, I’m fine. Everything’s fine..” She was interrupted as someone stepped into the room. Jimmy quickly tried to leave as he realized what was going on, but Lou stopped him. “Jimmy, don’t go.”
He turned around and watched as Kid placed a light kiss on her cheek before rising to go. He passed Jimmy and smiled, but he thought he saw some resentment in his eyes. Lou beckoned him over and he knelt down to the place Kid had occupied earlier. She reached out to grab his large hand and squeezed.
“Thank you Jimmy. You saved my life.”
“Lou...I said some things I shouldn’t have and I’m sorry. I don’t know what’s wrong with me...I never wanted to hurt you. I could never hurt you...I’m sorry.”
Lou looked at him and smiled tenderly. “I know Jimmy.”
She sat up in the bunk and tried to stand. Jimmy immediately stood up to support her. “Lou...this ain’t a good idea...”
“My arm was shot, not my leg Jimmy. I’m hungry.”
“I can bring you some food in here.” but he knew it was futile to argue with the spirited girl.
As he looked down at her, he felt a sharp pang in his heart. He knew that she would always love Kid and he would always love her. She would never belong to him, and in his heart he knew this was the way things had to be. She was destined to love another man; his best friend. He noticed how her eyes lit up ever so slightly as she spotted Kid, and in turn how he smiled widely as he caught sight of her. Kid walked over and tried to look at her in mock anger.
“You shouldn’t be up Lou.”
“What is it with you two? I’m fine.” she returned, laughing.
“Where you headin’?”
“I’m goin’ to the house to eat.”
“Would you like some company?”
“As a matter of fact, I would. Now where is Cody?” she said as she scanned the yard.
Kid laughed and swept her up in his arms, careful of her wound. They made their way across the yard and Jimmy felt terribly alone. He looked across the yard and spotted Ryan looking at the young couple, his eyes narrowed to slits. Jimmy felt the hairs on the back of his neck stand on end. There was something in his eyes that bespoke trouble, but Jimmy shrugged the feeling off as he walked to the stable to attend to his horse.
***********************************************************
Lou walked out on the porch and jumped as a voice called from the darkness.
“How are you feeling?”
As her eyes adjusted to the darkness, she recognized Ryan’s lithe form. She walked over to the swing and sat beside him. “I’m fine, thanks to you.”
She could feel, rather than see him smile. “Don’t mention it. Just do me a favor.”
“What’s that?”
“The next time some thieves demand the mail, give it to them. I don’t know if I could make a repeat performance.”
“Would you have given it to them?”
“No, but...”
“So, why should I have, and if you say it’s because I’m a girl, I’ll hit you.”
“Fine, I won’t say it.” he answered amiably. “Look, I just don’t want you to get hurt, or worse and you came pretty close to that last night.”
“It’s part of the job.”
“I suppose so, but can I ask you something personal?”
“What?”
“Now, don’t take this the wrong way...but why? I’m not saying that women can’t do as good a job as men, but not only are you a woman, you’re a small one. You probably don’t weigh more than ninety pounds. You’re askin’ for trouble because you look like an easy target.”
“You want to know why I do this? What decent job is out here for a single woman? I got a brother and sister back in St. Joe that I plan on bringing out here once I get enough money saved up. I know it’s dangerous, but there’s not much else to do, a woman ain’t got a lot of choices.”
Ryan nodded thoughtfully and knew there was more to her story than she was telling. He knew that something had to have happened to her to force her to take such drastic measures, but he could tell that she wasn’t ready to talk about it. He didn’t know why he even asked, he didn’t really care, did he? Oh Ryan, you better watch yourself. You can’t let a woman ruin your plans.
“I take it you and the Kid are more than just friends?” he asked sarcastically.
“Once...I don’t know I guess we still are. I love him if that’s what you’re wondering.”
“Well, if you love him, and I know he loves you after the way he worried over you last night, why not marry him and get away from all this?”
“I ain’t ready.” she said simply “Now, can I ask you something personal?”
“What?” he asked, his mind already on alert.
“Where’d you learn to...doctor people up?”
“My father was a doctor in Ireland. I used to go all around with him before...he passed on.”
“Oh. Well, that brings me to my next question. Why are you working here, putting your life at risk when you could be a doctor? I mean, I’m sure the pay’s better and you’d get your brothers and sisters over here a lot quicker.”
He was about to ask her what she was talking about when he remembered the lie he’d told them a few nights ago. “Uh...it’s just a selfish boyhood fantasy. I get to play the hero, be a part of history.”
Lou looked at him and smiled. “Well, I’m glad you’re here.”
He was about to respond when Kid opened the door and poked is head out. He gave Lou a dazzling smile as he said, “Lou, me and the boys are waiting.”
When Ryan cast her a curious gaze, she explained, “I’m goin’ to clean them out in poker.”
“That’s what she thinks. She don’t know that we’ve been practicing when she’s out on runs.” kid responded as he affectionately tugged at her hand.
“Kid, all the practice in the world ain’t goin’ to stop me from bein’ able to read your face.”
Kid turned around and tried to look hurt. He suddenly pulled her to him and placed a quick kiss on her lips. “Bet you didn’t know I was goin’ to do that.” he responded as they entered the warm bunkhouse.
Ryan looked after them and felt an emotion swell up in him that he hadn’t felt in a long time, jealousy. He tried to dismiss the feeling, but he found he couldn’t. After hearing the girl’s story he’d come to admire her more. It was dangerous to have feelings for her, and he knew he had to suppress them. He hadn’t come this far to be stopped by a woman, albeit a beautiful, brave and intelligent one. He shook his head as if to clear the thoughts and entered the bunkhouse to find that Lou indeed was cleaning the boys out.
*************************************************************
“Teaspoon, this is the fourth attack of a Pony Expess Rider in the past week.” Kid complained as he looked at the beaten man before him. “We gotta do something.”
“I agree Kid, but what do you want me to do? Send out armed guards with every rider? That’d just draw more attention.”
Kid nodded and looked at Buck sympathetically. He’d come back from his ride a few hours before, bruised and battered. He’d explained that he’d been halfway to his destination when he’d been ambushed by a gang of five or more men. They’d taken the pouch and left him for dead. He now looked at Teaspoon from his swollen eyes.
“Is there some kinda pattern? I mean, location, documents, anything?”
Teaspoon thought for a minute before deciding to tell them the truth. “I didn’t want to say anything before, but it seems all the riders have been carrying information for the Union.”
“So, I guess it stands to reason that all these raiders are southern sympathizers.” Kid said quietly. “Wait a minute, how are they finding out all this information? I mean, they don’t seem to follow a pattern, except in the fact that they seem to know exactly what each rider is carrying. How are they finding all this out?”
“Well son, the army’s working on that. They think some one has been leaking information from the inside. They don’t know if it’s a rider or stationmaster, but they’re determined to find out.”
“How are they goin’ to do that?”
“I don’t rightly know son.”
*******************************************************
Lou walked into the bunkhouse and found the others sitting around the table, their faces set in tight lines, especially Kid’s and she knew right then that they’d been discussing her. She pushed her bangs out of her eyes and cleared her throat. They looked at her in surprise, and Teaspoon stood up.
“Lou darlin’, why don’t you sit down here for a minute, we got somethin’ to discuss.”
She didn’t like the way Kid avoided her gaze, but she sat down and looked back at Teaspoon. “Now honey, you know the army’s been investigatin’ all these assaults on our riders. They still haven’t found the leak, but they need to get some important documents out, without risking it’s theft.”
Kid snorted in disgust and Lou tried not to smile. “All right Teaspoon, what do I have to do?”
Teaspoon smiled in relief that he didn’t have to go on any further before reaching the plan. “Well, we won’t be sending you out alone, but we will be sendin’ you out as a lady. You and Ryan are goin’ to go out carryin’ some important documents, disguised as a young couple, teachers to be exact. All you have to do is make the run to St. Joe, it’s that simple.”
“You don’t have to go Lou...” Kid started, but Lou interrupted.
“Well, what time do we leave?”
“Lou, don’t be a fool. This could be dangerous.”
“I’m not the one actin’ like a fool Kid.”
“You’ll leave tomorrow, first thing in the mornin’.” Teaspoon said quickly, hoping to prevent the argument he knew was coming. He walked towards the door and motioned for the others to follow him, knowing the couple needed to talk things over.
When they were gone, Lou rose and sat next to Kid, taking his large hand in hers. “Look Kid, I know that you’re worried, but there’s no need to be. I’m goin’ to be fine, besides Ryan will be with me.”
Kid smiled, thinking of Ryan. Over the past two months, he’d grown very close to the slightly older man, as had Lou. Kid trusted him, eventhough he knew that Ryan had more than just brotherly feelings for Lou, no matter how hard he tried to hide them. He’d seen Ryan staring at Lou from across the room with a look in his eyes that mirrored Kid’s when he looked at her.
“You know, Ryan tried to talk Teaspoon out of sending you.”
“What?? Why’d he do that? Don’t tell me you’re starting to rub off on him. Oh Lord, I don’t know if I can handle another Kid.”
“He loves you.” Lou looked up startled and tried to read Kid’s eyes. She saw no anger or jealousy in his eyes though.
“I know that, I didn’t know you knew though. So tell me Kid, why aren’t you out there poundin’ his head in?” Lou teased.
“Aw Lou, that ain’t fair. I can’t be mad at him for carin’ about you, I mean he obviously has good taste.”
Lou swatted his arm and looked into his eyes. Her tone had turned serious as she said, “ Kid...I know things ain’t right between us now, but you know that I love you, don’t you?”
Kid answered her by pulling her close to him and kissing her passionately. He pulled back first, but still held her in a tight embrace. “I love you more than anything else in this world Lou, and that’s why I want you to be careful tomorrow.”
Lou smiled as Kid gave her his blessing and hoped that things would go smoothly tomorrow. She wouldn’t admit it to the others, but she didn’t have a very good feeling about any of this. Her burn scar had just started fading, but the scar on her memory hadn’t even begun to heal. She was still haunted by the memory of the men and what they’d done. She’d thought she was going to die that night, and had come pretty close to it. She felt better though, just knowing that Ryan was coming along. She felt safe with him, almost as safe as when she was with Kid and Jimmy.
*************************************************************
Lou descended the steps of Rachel’s house and blushed under the gazes of the boys. She wore a lavender dress that accentuated her female figure. Rachel had bought it for her the day before, complete with white gloves and shawl, which she pulled tighter around her self-consciously. Her hair was swept back in a bun at the nape of her neck, but her bangs and and several strands of her dark hair framed her small face. She carried an elegant hat in her hand and placed it on her head as she made her way to the buckboard. Kid approached her first and took one of her gloved hands to his lips.
“You look beautiful Lou.” Kid whispered huskily. She stepped closer and planted a gentle kiss on his cheek. She looked around embarrassed as she noticed that the others had been watching them intently.
“Well, I’m jealous that I ain’t goin’.” Buck smiled as she passed him.
“Now Buck, you’ve ridden with Ryan before, it’s my turn.” Lou teased as she boarded the wooden transportation.
They all laughed, except Ryan, who didn’t even seem to notice that Lou had clambered in beside him. She cleared her throat and he finally took notice of how beautiful she looked. He’d always thought she was pretty, but now she looked more lovely than he though possible. Worry and fear crept into his heart for the young girl as he thought about what could happen to her.
He smiled at her and suddenly spurred the horse into action amidst the cries of “Ride safe”.
Ryan felt Lou’s eyes upon him, and he turned to her irritated. “Is there something I can do for you?”
Lou was taken aback, although she didn’t show it. She knew he was just edgy about the job they were doing. “I was just wonderin’ what’s been on your mind since we left the station. You haven’t said two words since we left.” Lou snapped back.
He avoided her question and instead turned to lecture her. “You know, you shouldn’t have come on this mission.”
She rolled her eyes. “Look, I can take care of myself.”
“Oh yeah, you did a real good job of that last time didn’t you? Face it Lou, you’re not as efficient as you claim. You’re just a little girl tryin’ to prove yourself.”
Lou looked at him in shock, and then in rage. She didn’t trust herself to speak, so she turned away from him, crossing her arms around her chest. A sudden movement attracted her attention in the trees in the distance. She reached under her dress and pulled her gun from the strap on her leg.
Ryan looked at her and snapped, “Put that away, you’re going to get our heads shot off.”
Before she could respond, five men emerged from the brush, surrounding them menacingly. Ryan slackened the reigns and laid them down slowly. He put his hands up in a sign of peace. One man rode forward and let his eyes roam over Lou’s body. He smiled lasciviously and Lou shivered.
“Where is it?”
“What are you talking about?”
“Where’s the maps, don’t make me ask again.”
“You seemed to be mistaken. My wife and I are teachers...”
Suddenly, three soldiers emerged from behind them, their guns trained on the ragged men. The man who’d been eyeing Lou looked to Ryan sharply, confusion in his eyes. The soldiers rode up and looked at Lou and Ryan.
“Throw down your guns.” a Lieutenant ordered. The men did so reluctantly. “Are you two all right?”
“Yes, but how...” Lou started
“We’ve been following you since you left the station. We obtained some information that these men would try to attack you, seems they’ve been tipped off. With them in custody, we can pinpoint the leak.”
“It’s a good thing you followed us.” Ryan said strangely as he withdrew his gun and shot the three men before they knew what he was doing. Lou screamed in shock and looked at Ryan in disbelief.
“For a minute there, I thought you sold us out Murphy.” The grizzly leader laughed as he and the other men hopped down from their horses to retrieve their guns. Lou took the opportunity to jump from the buckboard and mount the Lieutenant’s horse, riding off speedily.
Ryan motioned for the men to lower their guns as he jumped on a dead soldier’s horse. He started after her and it wasn’t long before he was close on her. Her dress hampered her ability dramatically and before she knew it, Ryan was beside her, yelling something she couldn’t understand. Without warning, he jumped at her and both of them tumbled to the ground. Lou struggled under his greater weight, but to no avail. He slapped her hard against the face, cutting her cheek. She quickly regained her composure and looked into his eyes.
“Why?” she cried
“You wouldn’t understand. Everything would have been fine if those damn soldiers hadn’t showed up, now I’m going to have to kill you.”
She looked at him fearlessly and closed her eyes as she heard the hammer on his gun click. He pressed it hard against her throat, but found he couldn’t go through with it. She opened her brown eyes, wide with shock and looked into Ryan’s dark ones.
“Damn you, I can’t do it.” He whispered as leaned closer into her. Her chest was still heaving from the chase but she couldn’t move. “You’re going to have to come with us.” he said finally as he pulled her roughly to her feet. He dragged her over to the horse and pushed her on, climbing on behind her, trapping her in his arms. He rode to where the others were waiting and met their gazes head on.
“She’s coming along for insurance Cole.”
“This wasn’t part of the plan.”
“Well, the plan’s changed. I can’t go back know, they’re on to me or they wouldn’t have sent those men.”
“Why not just kill her?”
“I told you. Insurance.”
“You’re the boss.”
“You’re damn right. Just remember that.” he growled as he rode off.
******************************************************************* “Boys, I need to talk to you.” Teaspoon called from the front porch. Dusk was beginning to settle across the land and the boys were finishing their chores.
He waited for them all to assemble before taking a deep breath. He wasn’t going to enjoy this. “I wasn’t completely honest yesterday.”
“Honest about what?” Jimmy asked suspiciously.
“The mission.”
“What in the hell are you talkin’ about Teaspoon?” Kid asked furiously.
Noah placed a soothing hand on his shoulder. “Calm down Kid.”
“Look, the army thinks they know who’s been selling us out.”
“Who?”
“Ryan Murphy.”
“And you sent Lou out with him alone?? Are you crazy?” Jimmy almost yelled.
“She ain’t exactly alone. Three soldiers are supposed to be following them. They know that sooner or later, them band of thieves is goin’ to catch up with them. Of course Ryan’ll play along as the victim since Lou’s with him, but the men will be in custody and hopefully they’ll testify against him.”
“Ryan won’t let that happen.” Kid said quietly, dangerously so. “Have you thought about what he’ll do? He’s got Lou teaspoon...he could hurt her.”
“I told you Kid, those soldiers...”
“I’m goin’ after them.” Kid interrupted.
“Me too.” Jimmy said standing up.
Teaspoon looked at Buck, Noah and Cody and smiled ruefully, “I guess it’s unanimous. Saddle up boys, I’ll go tell Rachel.”
**********************************************************
Lou glared across the fire at Ryan. Her cheek still throbbed from when he struck her and she knew it was bruised. Ryan for his part seemed to ignore her completely. He was involved in telling the men about how he’d tricked all of them into believing he was they’re friend.
“They’re the most ignorant people I’ve ever met. They think they’re hot stuff though. I was stealing information right and left and they didn’t even know it.” All the men laughed, and rage bubbled in Lou’s chest.
“You’re a pig.” she spat. Suddenly, Cole kicked her in the side, knocking the wind out of her. Ryan laughed and walked over to her. He pulled her head back by her hair, forcing her to look in his eyes.
“I’m not Kid little girl. You better watch how you talk to me.”
Lou narrowed her eyes. “No, you’re not Kid. He’s honorable and decent. You’re just a low-down scoundrel.”
His eyes reflected his rage and he released her head forcefully, hitting it on the ground. She cried out in pain, but didn’t back down. He walked back to his place and retrieved a rope from the saddle of his horse. He walked behind her and tied her hands roughly, but she didn’t cry out.
“You boys get some sleep, we’re leavin’ here bright and early. I’ll watch her. She might try something.”
“I think I see something.” Kid said quietly as he rode into the clearing. He almost got sick at the sight that greeted him. Three men laid sprawled on their backs, gaping wounds in their chests. He dismounted Katy and walked closer, the others close behind him.
“Jesus, what happened?” Jimmy asked through clenched teeth as he approached the abandoned buckboard. He spotted Lou’s shawl and hat close by and felt a lump rise in his throat.
“Ryan Murphy.” Teaspoon answered solemnly.
“Well, he’s got Lou wherever he is.” Kid retorted.
“We’re goin’ to find her Kid.” Buck said quietly as he knelt down to examine the tracks. After a few minutes, he looked up and pointed south. The others mounted their horses and reluctantly left the bodies behind them. There would be time to take care of the dead later, right now they had to help the living.
Ryan looked at Lou and felt ashamed. Her cheek was bruising badly from where he’d hit her and her neck showed the beginnings of bruising. Her dress was torn and dusty and her hair was extremely disheveled. He hadn’t wanted to hurt her, but things hadn’t gone off like they were supposed to. He walked closer to her and sat down, but she wouldn’t look at him.
“I’m sorry Lou.”
“Save it, I don’t want to hear it. I trusted you...we all did and this is how you repay us?”
“Look, I had to do this, you don’t understand.”
“You’re right, I don’t. I don’t understand why you lied to us...to me. We welcomed you and all you did was lie.”
“No...I didn’t. I’m not lying now when I tell you I love you. I’ve loved you from the moment I saw you, even though I knew it was dangerous. I don’t want to hurt you Lou.” he said softly as he bent down to kiss her. His lips were soft as they met hers, but she pulled away in disgust.
“I despise you. I will never, ever love you, do you understand me?” she spat.
He moved away from her as if she’d burned him. He stood up angrily and left the camp, heading out into the darkness. She knew it was her opportunity to escape, so she began to struggle with the ropes, but they were too tight. She looked around to see if any of the men were awake. She tried to stand up, but was interrupted as all chaos descended into the camp. She looked in relief as she recognized Kid and Jimmy. Before she could move, Cole seized her arm violently and pulled her to her feet, putting his gun to her head.
“Don’t do nothin’ stupid boys, or this little one’ll be meetin’ her maker.”
Kid lowered his gun and Jimmy followed suit. However, Cole felt a gun placed roughly at his temple. “If you don’t let her go, you’ll be meeting your maker.”
Cole didn’t need time to think before he shoved the girl away. She fell roughly to the ground and turned around to see Teaspoon smiling at her. Kid was immediately by her side, untying the ropes that’d almost cut off her circulation completely. He looked at her face and reached out to softly touch the bruise.
“I’m goin’ to kill him.”
“No...I’m fine Kid.” she whispered as she hugged him tightly.
Teaspoon and the others rounded up the men as Kid helped Lou to her feet. “Where’s Ryan?” he asked her softly.
“I don’t know...he stalked off earlier.”
*******************************************************
Ryan watched from the darkness as the scene unfolded in front of him. He’d almost emerged when cole had held the gun to Lou, but Teaspoon stepped in just in time to save him the trouble of giving himself up. His eyes narrowed as he watched the tender exchange between Lou and Kid and he drew his gun. He didn’t know what his intentions were, but he found himself aiming at Kid. He caught himself just before he clicked the hammer back. What was he doing? He didn’t want to kill Kid, he actually liked the man, but jealousy was eating him up inside.
I despise you, isn’t that what she’d said? Hell, she had every right to hate him after everything that happened. He’d lied to them and ultimately betrayed them all. He wasn’t thinking about the raids he helped plan, or the information he’d passed on to Cole, instead he was thinking of how he’d fooled them all into thinking he was their friend. That was worse than anything he could have done in their opinion, and they were right.
He sank back on his haunches and swore softly to himself. He had to get out of there before they found him. He looked one last time at Lou and took in every detail of her small, lovely face. Her warm brown eyes were wide in fear as she looked around the camp, probably looking for any signs of his return. He stood up silently and wandered toward the edge of the clearing where he’d tied his horse up. He stealthily mounted his horse and rode off into the darkness, not sure of where he was going.
**********************************************************
Kid looked around the camp, anticipating Ryan’s return. He was going to kill him for all he’d done. Not only had he made Kid and the others feel like fools, but he’d endangered Lou’s life and that was crossing the line. As if reading his thoughts, Lou slid her small hand into his large one and squeezed, forcing him to look at her.
“Kid, I know what you’re thinkin’, but it ain’t worth it.”
He looked down at her and read the silent plea in her big eyes. He brought his free hand to caress her dirt streaked face and tried to smile, but failed miserably. Suddenly, Teaspoon walked over to the pair and squeezed Lou’s shoulder.
“How you doin’ darlin’?”
“I’m fine.” she whispered.
Teaspoon was goin’ to press her further, but one look in her tired eyes made him change his mind. Instead he turned to Kid and said solemly, “We’re goin’ to wait till mornin’ before headin’ back to Rock Creek. Now, I’ve set Buck, Cody and Jimmy around camp so they can catch Ryan if he comes back.”
“What do you mean if?” Kid asked suspiciously
“Look son, I sent Buck to get all the horses from over yonder and it seems, that there’s some fresh tracks, headed south. Now, that could mean that Ryan’s already been here...”
“Well, we got to go after him.”
“I’m afraid not Kid. Our main concern is gettin’ these men back to Rock Creek and on trial. ‘Sides, the army’ll set off after him once we get back. We’re in no condition to go followin’ him.”
“But, he hurt Lou.”
“I know, and he’ll pay, but not right now. I suggest the two of you get some sleep. Don’t worry, if Ryan does come back, which I doubt, we’ll get him.” and with that, he left the couple standing by the fire.
Kid didn’t say anything for a long time. He glared into the fire and didn’t move until Lou tugged at his hand and led him to sit under a near-by tree. She snuggled against him and was comforted by the beating of his heart. He sighed and tightened his grip around her, as if he’d never let he go.
“Lou...did he try to...” Kid began, but couldn’t finish.
“No, Kid...I don’t think he would have tried to, not ever.”
“What makes you say that? He did this, didn’t he?” Kid said sarcastically as he touched her cheek.
“Kid you’re angry right now, but I think you know he was a better man than that.”
“Why are you defending him?” Kid said angrily, letting her go so she could look at him.
“I’m not defending him Kid...I just think that he must’ve had his reasons. I’m not sayin’ he was right, but...”
“Lou, he killed three men, Lord knows how many others...”
“Don’t you think I know that Kid? I was right there, I saw everything.” She sobbed, beginning to stand up.
He was instantly sorry for his words to her and pulled her into his warm embrace. “I’m sorry Lou...I don’t want to fight.”
She silently hicupped and kissed his neck softly. “I know...”
Kid removed his jacket and placed it around Lou as he pulled her closer, but not before placing a gentle kiss on her lips. They both closed their eyes and before long they’d fallen asleep in eachother’s arms.
***************************************************************
Lou was in the stable, making her way to Lightning’s stall when a hand clamped around her mouth and a strong arm encircled her waist, dragging her into the darkness.
“Don’t say a word...please.” a familiar voice whispered. Lou’s eyes widened in shock as she recognized Ryan’s light brogue. She nodded slightly and he released her. She spun around and locked eyes with him.
It had been two months since she’d last seen him and he looked worse for the wear. He had grown a shaggy beard and his hair was tangled wildly around his shoulders. His eyes were exhausted and he looked like he’d lost more than twenty pounds.
“What are you doin’ here? If you get caught, they’ll hang you.” she whispered fiercely.
“I...I had to see you before I left. I had to explain...”
“You don’t have to explain, but you do have to leave. The boys...if they find you here, they’ll kill you and there’s nothin I can do.”
“I love you Lou.”
“Yeah, well you got a funny way of showin’ it.” she instantly regretted her harsh words as sorrow shone in his eyes. She softened her voice and stepped closer. “Look Ryan...I don’t want you to get hurt.”
“Come with me Lou.”
“What???”
“I’m goin’ down to Mexico to start a new life...and I want you with me.”
“You know I can’t do that...I love Kid.”
“And despise me.” he said bitterly
“No...I don’t. I don’t know why because lord knows I wouldn’t be wrong if I did. But I gotta know something...when I was attacked...were you behind that.”
“I...Lou...”
“Answer the question.”
“I didn’t mean for that to happen. They were supposed to wait till they heard from me...Jimmy was supposed to be carrying some intelligence information a couple days after you, so they camped close to his route. You weren’t supposed to be hurt Lou...it wouldn’t even have involved you if they’d had half a wit...but...”
Lou held up her hand to silence him and he obeyed. “Did you ever have second thoughts about savin’ my life?”
“No...Lou, you gotta believe me.” She looked deeply in his dark eyes and found her answer.
Suddenly, the door opned and they both froze. “Lou, are you in here? Lou?” They both recognized Kid’s voice. Lou reassured Ryan with a look and walked into the center to meet Kid. His eyes lit up at the sight of her and she couldn’t help but smile.
“Hey...Rachel says it’s time for supper. Figured I’d come in here to warn you cause you know Cody.”
Lou laughed with him and was surprised when he kissed her and pulled her close. “You know, maybe you should be in there learnin’ how to cook, I mean, the weddin’ ain’t that far off and...”
Lou lightly punched him in the ribs and laughed as he doubled over in pain. “You’ll eat whatever I give you, and don’t you forget that.” She said archly
Kid held his hands up in defeat and smiled. “I don’t care what you make, just as long as you’re there with me.” he said seriously.
Lou looked into his blue eyes and thought her heart would overflow with all the love she felt for the man standing before her. She hugged him tightly, almost causing both of them to crash to the floor. After a minute, Kid pulled away and took her by the hand, leading her towards the door.
“Wait...I’ll meet you inside, I just have a few things to finish in here.”
“All right, but you’d better hurry.” Kid laughed as he walked toward the bunkhouse.
Lou walked back to the corner where she and Ryan had been talking, but to her great surprise, he was gone. She looked around and called his name softly, several times, but to no avail. Suddenly she spotted something on the ground. As she bent to pick it up, she recognized the small white glove she’d had on the day they’d ridden together. It was still remarkably white, and Lou knew that Ryan must have taken special care of it. She also knew this was his way of saying goodbye.
She clutched the glove tightly and put it in her pocket. She didn’t condone any of his actions, but she did hope that he would make it to Mexico and start a new life. She cared about the man, no matter how hard she tried not too and knew that he would always hold a place in her heart, though not as special as Kid, or even Jimmy. She sighed audibly and walked out the door, unaware of the dark eyes, marred with pain, that followed her from a distance. Once she was inside, the pair of eyes kicked his horse into action and disappeared in the horizon.
The END
