Caroline managed to wake up when she felt David’s weight on the bed. Her eyes widened in fright as she realized what he had in mind. David’s back was to her, so she reached over, grabbed the lamp and hit him on the head with it. The sound of crashing glass brought Red Bear and Uncle Joe running into the house only to find Caroline running from the bedroom. Red Bear made his way to the bedroom to see what had frightened her, while Joe held a shaking Caroline in his arms.

Red Bear came out dragging a semi-conscious David behind him. Joe took one look at his disheveled appearance and flew into a rage. The only thing that stopped Joe from killing David was Caroline’s pleas to stop. As David regained consciousness, Caroline informed him that he was no longer employed there and he had one hour to pack up his belongings and to get out. David just sneered, “Who’s going to make me?”

“I am.” Red Bear’s voice was deep and strong as he crossed his arms over his chest and stared David down.

David’s next comment was directed to Caroline. “Think that stinkin Injun is going to be around to save your hind next time? I wouldn’t be so sure of that.” With that he stormed out the door with Red Bear following. The braves that rode in with Red Bear were still by the corral and waited for him to come over. They had heard the breaking glass and the shouting, but hadn’t understood what was going on. Red Bear told them what had happened and told them of a plan he had. They agreed to help, so Red Bear went back to the house to discuss it with Joseph and Caroline while the braves watched David.

Joseph poured Red Bear a cup of coffee while Caroline sat in her mother’s rocking chair staring at the fireplace. “I’ve got an idea and I’m sure my people will help. But I wanted to see if you would agree first.”

“What is it?”

“Caroline, come here please. You are in the middle of this, so I want your opinion.” Red Bear struggled over some of the words, but was able to get it all out. Caroline came over and sat down and smiled meekly at both men.

“I think it would be good for Caroline to leave for a while.”

“No, I won’t! This was poppa’s dream and I’m not going to let it fall to ruin.” Caroline started to leave, but Uncle Joe made her sit and listen. He had an idea of where Red Bear was going and wanted to hear him out.

“My brother, Running Buck rides for the Pony Express out of Sweetwater. I think you should go there for a couple weeks and stay. I can’t take you all the way there, but you are welcome to ride with us until we reach our camp. From there, it would probably be about a day’s ride or so. Running Buck has spoke highly of the woman who owns the station. I don’t think she would have a problem with you staying for a couple of weeks. I just wish there was some way to get word to her so she’s expecting you.”

“But who would help with chores and watch out for David? He’s pretty mad and what if he comes back?”

By then Uncle Joe had figured out what Red Bear was trying to say and finished up the idea. “If he comes back the boys and I will handle things. I figure he’d come to the house first, so I’ll probably bed down in the bunkhouse with the boys. If there’s anything dear to you, I would suggest you take it with you and if you can’t, I’ll move it out in the sheds. For travel purposes, I think you should disguise yourself as a man, this way you shouldn’t attract as much attention.”

Red Bear nodded in agreement and looked over at Caroline to see if she agreed. She nodded her head and smiled. Maybe this won’t be too bad Caroline thought. “If I’m going to be disguised as a man, maybe we should cut my hair? It’s not that there are very many men with hair as long as mine. Maybe about shoulder length or so?” Red Bear and Uncle Joe agreed so Caroline got out her sewing scissors and had Joe cut off her long braid.

They quickly finished the planning and decided that Red Bear and a few of his braves would come and help Uncle Joe with chores and security. Caroline was going to ride out as soon as she was ready with Red Bear and his Kiowa braves. Caroline headed to her room to change and pack up a few things while Red Bear and Joseph went out to let the others know what was going on and saddle a horse for her.

“Dammit Buck, how much longer do we have to wait?” Kid was frustrated and wanted to get back to see Lou, but Teaspoon had told them that this was an important package and they were to stick around and wait for it. They had made good time on their run, but their package to pick up had been delayed.

“The clerk said it should be in later today or tomorrow. As soon as it gets here, we’ll ride out. Meanwhile, let’s go grab something to eat. That restaurant down the street is supposed to be really good. Besides, I think there was a store next door to it - maybe we can find a birthday present for Emma.”

On to Chapter Four

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