From where she sat Elizabeth Carson watched the wounded rider coming up the drive between two of her father’s hands. When they got to the yard she rose, “William bring him inside and have his horse looked after. Joseph you go for the doctor. Father’s in town as well so tell him to come home as soon as possible.” She instructed the two men.

“Yes ma’am.” The two men did as they were instructed without comment. They both knew the young woman was stubborn and liable to do the job herself if they didn’t. After carrying the man into the house William Holley headed back out to tend the big bay gelding the boy was riding. Digging in his saddle bags, he found an envelope hidden in a pocket and pulled it out.

“Miss Carson?” He approached the woman as she bathed the wounds on the man’s face as two men stripped him down to his long johns.

“Yes William?”

“I found this in his bags. You might want to read it.” Handing the letter over William quickly left the women folk to care for the man.

Stepping back away from her patient Elizabeth opened the letter and unfolded the paper.

“If you are reading this it means I’ve been hurt or killed. Any and all personal effects with me including my paint mare Katy are to be sent to Lou McLoud Rock Creek Express Station. With the enclosed note. Kid” Folding the paper Elizabeth tucked it into her apron pocket and listened to the two nurses as they tended the badly beaten boy.

“Elizabeth!” The familiar roar of her father drew a smile from her and she headed downstairs meet the tall rancher. 

“What’s this I hear about a wounded boy?”

“He’s upstairs Daddy.” Elizabeth replied as the doctor headed for the sickroom his black bag in his hands. “He’s been pretty badly beaten. William found this.” Elizabeth handed the note to her father and waited.

“Well best get to work girl. We’ll wait for the doctor’s verdict before you go off to Rock Creek to get this boy’s friend.” Duncan Tyler replied after reading the note. “Until then you’ve got chores, leave the doctor to his work girl.”

“Yes Pappa.” Elizabeth smiled and headed for the kitchen. Her husband was due home in a few hours and she wanted to surprise him with a special dinner. 
Looking out the window at the fading darkness, Duncan Tyler wondered what to do with the young man upstairs. He was obviously in a great deal of pain, and he kept asking for someone named Lou. He’d already been here three days, and he didn’t seem to be getting any worse, but he wasn’t recovering either. 

“Pappa?”

Turning he faced his eldest daughter with a tired smile, “Yes Elizabeth?”

“I’ve sent William to Rock Creek to get that girl.” Elizabeth walked into the room, “She’s taking the second letter and the boy’s saddlebags. Pappa he’s hurt so.”

“I know baby but the doctor’s doing everything he can.” Duncan explained. “There ain’t too much more we can do other than get this boys girl for him!”

“It’ll take William two days on the back trails. I told him to be careful on the way back and not lead anyone directly here. He said he’d take the long way back with Lou.”

“Morning sir.” Elizabeth’s husband Matthew Carson walked into the room. “How is our patient?”

“Holding steady. His temperature is still climbing and he’s sinking in and out of consciousness, but he’s holding on.” Elizabeth replied smiling at her husband with a look of love.

“We’re gonna do everything we can to save him.” Duncan stated before turning back to the rising sun, this was the time of day that his beloved Annie had loved. It was going to get interesting around here to say the least. 

Frowning as she realized that they probably thought she didn’t care since her and the Kid were broke up. Shaking off that offending feeling she sighed, didn’t matter if they were broke up or not, she stilled loved the big oaf. It had taken a swift kick in the butt to make her aware of it, but now she couldn’t imagine living without him. If only he’d get back here so she could tell him that.

“I’ve gone over the Jacksonville run Teaspoon, there aren’t any tracks that I could find.” Buck insisted. “Unless he just disappeared, I don’t know what to tell you.”

“Anyone tell Lou yet?” Teaspoon asked.

“No.” Jimmy replied. “She’s been in a bad mood the last couple of days.”

“Don’t tell her. She’ll freak and we need everyone thinking clearly.” Teaspoon said unaware of the young woman standing holding the door open a half inch. 

Stepping back Lou whirled and headed for the barn, damn them! She thought, I have a right to know. He is my friend if nothing else. Storming into the barn she glanced around for something to do and noted Kid’s spare bridle hanging on a peg, she’d clean it. Tomorrow she’d head out and look for him. 

Come hell or high water, she’d find Kid and then they could all stick that in their hats.  

Buck walked into the barn as it got closer to dusk and stopped. Lou was sitting on a hay bale cleaning a bridle with a furious look on her face and stubbornness in the set of her tiny shoulders.

“Evening Lou.” Buck said walking up to her. “You gonna come in to eat?”

“Nope.” Lou replied focusing on the leather in her hand.

“Teaspoon wants to talk to you.” Buck said.

Lou glanced at her friend noting the apologetic look in his eyes and shrugged, “I’ll be in shortly.” she stated quietly. Probably was going to give her another run or something. She thought crossly, anything to get her out of the way.

“Rachel’s saved you something to eat.” Buck quickly checked on his mare and hurried from the barn mindful of Lou’s temper.

Nodding at the bridle Lou hung it back up and headed for the bunkhouse. No one seemed too interested in looking at her as she closed the door and glanced around. “Where’s Teaspoon?” She asked.

“In town.” Jimmy replied quickly refocusing on the cards in hands. He hated not telling her about Kid, but those two were at each other’s throats now! No telling what she would do if she knew.

Turning on her heel Lou headed for town, ignoring the little looks that passed between the riders. When she got to town she stepped into the Marshall’s office and faced her boss and mentor, “You wanted to see me?” 

“I’ve got an extra run for you. Thought you might enjoy a stop over in Saint Jo.” Teaspoon drawled from his chair.

Lou shook her head and felt the anger boiling in her gut, “Why?”

“What?”

“Why give me the extra run?” Lou demanded. “Isn’t it Cody’s turn?”

“Figured you might want to see your siblings. You ain’t gone to see them in a few weeks.” Teaspoon explained uneasily. No wonder the boys were all avoiding her, she had a nasty temper and the only one who seemed to be able to calm her wasn’t even around. Teaspoon was beginning to wonder if the Kid hadn’t got himself killed on his last run. 

Lou frowned, she did want to go see her brother and sister but Saint Jo was in the opposite direction everyone was expecting Kid from. If Kid was laying hurt somewhere it wouldn’t be on the trail to Saint Jo! Making her mind up instantly Lou shook her head at Teaspoon, “No thank you.” turning she hurried from the office ignoring Teaspoon’s incredulous look, and his voice as he called her name out.

She hurried back to the bunkhouse, she’d go looking as soon as she could. They might have given up hope but she knew the Kid better than they did, he wouldn’t just give up and not come home. And she knew he kept a letter in his saddle bag that was for whoever found him so word would have been sent if he’d been found hurt. 

Buck watched Lou come into the bunkhouse and settle at the table. She picked at the food Rachel had left out for her as the others chatted amongst themselves without including her. He cringed when he heard what Cody’s big mouth was talking about.

“Since Jimmy’s up next, why shouldn’t he take Katy?” Cody demanded of Noah as they sat talking, he hadn’t realized Lou had come back yet.

“Because she’s Kid’s horse.” Lou snapped angrily.

“In case you ain’t noticed Lou, Kid’s not here. He’ll never even know.” Cody replied uneasily. 

“Nobody rides Katy!” Lou glared at him, “Next one that even suggests it is gonna answer to me!” Shoving her plate away Lou stalked to her bunk and pulled her blanket over her shoulders. Ignoring everyone she rolled to face the wall, tears leaking past her tightly closed lids.

Early the next morning Lou was up and dressed before anyone. She was going looking for the Kid and she didn’t plan on wasting any time. Slipping from the bunkhouse she groaned as she recognized Jimmy’s palomino standing tied with the mare’s saddle in place. Hearing everyone moving around the interior of the bunkhouse she felt her hope for getting away unnoticed deflating. The boys had obviously decided that they needed to be taking turns watching her and it was worse than any of Kid’s worrying! He’d at least back off after she snapped at him.

“Morning Lou!” Jimmy patted her on the back as he walked past her and into the bunkhouse.

“Morning Jimmy.” Lou parroted as Cody and Buck came out to stand behind her.

“So Lou it’s your turn to help out with that new fence.” Buck said wrapping an arm around her shoulders as he pointed her toward the barn. He felt her tense and glanced at Cody, they both knew Lou could loose it faster than lightening. 

“I’ve got the barn to clean this morning!” Lou protested angrily. 

“Oh that’s okay Lou. I’ll clean out the barn.” Cody said happily and scurried off under her nasty look. Swallowing on the way to the barn, he swore he’d never laugh at Kid again when he backed down from Lou!

Two days later even Teaspoon was avoiding Lou’s temper. Rachel was the only one who’d speak to her and it amazed everyone that Lou hadn’t killed Rachel who came up with some interesting chores for Louise to do while they tried to figure out what happened to the Kid.

Sitting by herself on the front stoop of the big house, Lou watched the rider galloping toward her and rose. Rachel had slipped away to check on something in the house unintentionally leaving Lou a clean get away. Something she was debating taking as she pondered why she was sitting waiting for the boys to include her in their conversations about the Kid. 

When the rider pulled up and swung down next to the gate, Lou walked down the steps to where he was. The man was dressed as a drover, with chaps and a battered stetson that had obviously been stepped on more than once, “Can I help you?” she asked thankful that she’d left her gun on in case of trouble. The man glanced up at her and for some reason she felt a touch of hope. Maybe he was a messenger from the Kid.

“The names William Holley, I’m looking for Mr. McLoud. Got a message for him.” William stared at the young boy in front of him and pushed his battered hat back out of his eyes. 

“I’m Lou McLoud. What can I do for you?” Lou said tensing as the men pulled a letter from his pocket and handed it to her. Jerking it from his fingers she headed for the bunkhouse as she opened it and started to read it.

Dear Louise,
If you’re getting this letter it means one of two things, either I’ve been hurt bad or killed on a run. I just wanted you to know two very important things. First and most importantly, I love you, I always will no matter what. And secondly, I’m so sorry for ever hurting you. Causing you pain was the last thing I ever wanted to do Lou, and I’m truly sorry! My only wish is for you to be happy. Thank you for allowing me to get to know the amazing woman that you are. You’ve really shown me that strength comes in many forms and for that I’m grateful. 

All my love forever, 
Kid

“Where did you get this letter?” Lou demanded facing the delivery man in the yard near the bunkhouse steps. Hope was a precious commodity around here, and she wasn’t going to set herself up to be disappointed by false hope. 

“Out of his saddlebags. I brought them with me.” William noted the boys paler and realized that the boy was actually a young woman when he folded gracefully into a sitting position on the steps. He’d seen that reaction too many times in the boss’s daughters not to recognize it in this woman. 

“Where is he? Is he..?” Lou swallowed, she couldn’t bring herself to think he was dead.

“He’s at my boss’s place. He’s been pretty badly stomped but the doctor patched him up. Mr. Tyler and Miss Carson want you to come though. He’s been asking for you.” William replied as the woman rose and headed inside the bunkhouse.

Thankful that everyone was for once avoiding her, Lou hurriedly grabbed her bedroll, a change of clothes for both of them and her jacket before hurried out into the sunlight. “Did you need a fresh horse?” Lou asked as she glanced at the man, “Take anyone of those in the corral.”

Quickly switching his tack the man waited patiently while the woman stopped in front of a black’s stall before moving on to a paint’s stall. 

Leading Katy out of her stall, Lou saddled her quickly and swung up into the saddle, her gear stowed behind her on the back of the saddle. Looking at William she took a deep breath, Katy was so much faster than her horse, something for which she was immensely thankful that Kid’s horse could fly. 
“Lets go.” Lou said nudging Katy into a gallop. After being cooped up Katy was anxious to run, and quickly responded to Lou’s urging.

Wordlessly William lead the young woman toward the ranch, he knew she was trying not to show how concerned she was but he knew the signs of a woman in love worrying over her man. 

They slowed to a gentle lope after about five miles and just let the horses relax on the trail. The sun was directly over head when Lou pulled up sharply before she slammed into Jimmy who was coming home from his run. Glaring at him as he came around the corner she’d been so lost in thought she hadn’t heard the sound of his horse galloping. 

“Watch it LOU!” Jimmy jerked his horse to a halt narrowly avoiding a collision with Lou. He stared at Lou who was riding a familiar paint mare and raised one eyebrow, “How come you’re riding Katy? Thought no one was supposed to ride her.”

“So?” Lou snapped as Jimmy shifted in his saddle. “Kid won’t mind.”

“How the hell do you know? Sooner or later he’s gonna turn up and he ain’t gonna like anyone riding his horse, including you.” Jimmy pointed out. “In case you forgot you’re his friend now! Nothing else.”

“Just goes to show what you know Hickok. Why would he mind his woman riding his horse?” Lou asked sweetly noting William was waiting up the trail a ways. “Gotta go.” Urging Katy past Jimmy she sent the mare into a gallop and disappeared up the trail. 

Jimmy watched her disappear up the trail, not noting the cowboy who was sitting in the shadows and frowned. “His woman?” he muttered. “They ain’t even talking right now, much less that. What the hell did she mean by that?” Shaking his head he headed for the station, he needed a bite to eat and a good nights rest.

That night everyone sat around the table glaring at the two empty chairs, “Where the hell did Lou get to?” Teaspoon demanded. “I checked the barn her horse is here, her things for the most part are here so where the hell did she disappear to? Who was suppose to be watching her?”

“Last time I saw her she was riding west.” Jimmy said past a yawn. He pushed his plate away and rose to shuck his gloves, boots and hat.

“West!” Teaspoon snapped, “What the hell do you mean she was riding! Didn’t you just hear me say..”

“She’s riding Katy.” Jimmy hopped up on his bunk and laid down. “I’m sure of that cause she just about run me and Goldie over as I was coming in.”

“Back up here for a minute.” Cody snapped, “She threatened everyone when I suggested someone use Katy on a run, then she takes her out?”

“Why would she do that?” Buck asked Teaspoon a frown marring his face.
“I don’t know. But I’m gonna find out.”

“Said it wasn’t unheard of.” Jimmy rolled over to face the wall, “Kid wouldn’t mind his woman riding his mare or something to that effect.” 

Teaspoon choked on his coffee, “Would you explain yourself young man. They’re at each other’s throats. You must have misunderstood what she was saying.” He gasped as he choked on the coffee.

Rolling over Jimmy raised up on one elbow and faced everyone, “That is exactly what she said. Smiled at me ever so nicely and rode off like the hounds of hell were after her or Kid was in front of her. So I’m guessing she found out something.” Jimmy retorted frowning as he realized someone had left a note on his bed. Pulling it up he read the few lines and groaned then tossed it toward Lou’s bunk. “They’ve got to quit doing this to me.”

Buck rose and collected the note, reading it he grinned, “I don’t think it was intended for anyone other than her.”

“Just what is that?” Cody reach for the letter and Buck pulled it out of his reach.

“Never mind Cody. It’s between those two.”

“We’ll go out tomorrow first thing and try to pick up a track.” Teaspoon stated quietly. “I’m gonna get to the bottom of this one way or the other.” 

Lou pulled Katy to a halt in front of the massive stone structure and swung down. Turning to William she raised an eyebrow, “This it?”

“Yep. Here I’ll see to these horses.” Leading the horses away William left Lou to her own devices as the opulent door opened and a dark haired beauty stepped out with a smile.

“You must be Lou?” the woman asked softly.

“Yes. How’s the Kid?” Lou asked hurrying up the steps and stopping in front of the woman. She was truly pretty and for a moment Lou felt a tinge of jealousy before pushing it aside. Kid was her main worry at the moment.

“Hanging on. He’s upstairs.” Elizabeth said leading the woman in the house and up the staircase to a door. Swinging the door open she ushered Lou into the room and watched the woman freeze at the prone figure in bed. “He’s been lucid a few times, keeps asking for you.”

“What happened?” Lou whispered, tears pooling in her eyes as she touched Kid’s battered face. Glancing at the woman who only shook her head, she stripped her jacket off and sat down on the edge of the bed. Reaching for a cloth she wiped his face down with it and prayed harder than she had ever prayed in her life.

“I’ll leave you two then. If you need anything. Please don’t hesitate to ask. I’ll send Julie and Anthony up with a bath for you.” Elizabeth closed the door softly and smiled. That boy was lucky to have someone love him so much.

“Oh Kid! I love you so much. I’m here now, and I’m not going anywhere!” Lou whispered. “I’m so sorry! Please forgive me.” Lou couldn’t help the tears that filled her eyes. As they traced down her pale cheeks she focused on the Kid, unmindful of the people that brought a bath in for her.

“Your bath is ready.” Julie said and quickly ushered her brother out of the room. 

Stripping quickly Lou had a bath and swore as she realized she’d left her saddle bags downstairs. Hearing knock she grabbed a towel, “Yes?”

“Lou its Elizabeth, I’ve brought you some clean clothes.” Elizabeth said opening the door a crack and sticking her hand with the dress and under things in. “I know it’s not pants but it’s the best I can do.”

“That’s okay. I don’t mind wearing a dress.” Lou said taking the clothes and closing the door. She quickly dried off and turned her attention back to Kid who was starting to move around.

“Lou.” Kid moaned. He’d never hurt so badly in his life and now his mind was playing tricks on him. He thought he’d heard Lou talking, feeling a cool touch on his face he turned away from it, certain it was the dark haired woman who’d been there when he’d woken yesterday.

“Sh. I’m right here Kid.” Lou whispered sinking to her knees next to the bed. “I’m right here!”

Turning his head he met Lou’s eyes and smiled weakly, “Cold.” Kid muttered, not sure if she’d even understand him.

“I’ll get you another blanket.” Lou rose and stopped when he grabbed her hand.

“Don’t go. Please.” Kid pleaded. He didn’t want to loose her again. 

“I’m not going any where Kid.” Lou said as she crawled into bed with him and held him until he fell asleep, “You’ve got me and I’m not letting you go for nothing.” Lou stated kissing his sweat soaked hair. 

As the days blended together a routine developed of Lou sitting with him until she couldn’t stay awake any longer than Elizabeth would take over for a couple of hours. Lou ate only when someone pushed a plate in front of her, her focus on her patient who was starting to recover nicely. 

Every time Kid fell asleep he wondered if he would wake to find Lou gone, he should never have hurt her. If he hadn’t then she’d still be his instead of him being alone. Her presence gave him hope though that she might still care. Resolutely he promised himself if she’d forgive him he’d never do anything to hurt her again.

With her thoughts so focused on the Kid, Lou didn’t think of what was happening in Rock Creek with the boys. If she had of thought, she’d have realized they were going to follow her but as time past she didn’t think of that. She worked hard to get Kid out of bed and moving around. 

“Well?” Jimmy demanded sitting on his horse at the fork in the trail.

“Followed Katy’s tracks all the way down the trail, they stop at a gate for the Circle T ranch.” Buck said. He’d lost the tracks a couple of time because of heavy rain, but it hadn’t been too hard to spot the familiar track that Katy left as she moved. “She was traveling with someone.”

“Was she followed?” Teaspoon asked.

“We’ve got a circle T branded horse in the corral and missing an express pony, someone from the ranch came and got her.” Buck replied quietly. He was worried. In the past eight days they’d been successful in locating tracks then they’d lose them. If he didn’t know any better he’d swear they didn’t want the trail followed.

“Good. At least we know where Kid is.” Teaspoon stated calmly, “Still don’t like this though. Lou should have come for us.”

“Lou wasn’t too happy with any of us at the time Teaspoon, you know that as well as I do.” Cody stated feeling a little uneasy about this.

“We’re gonna have to make camp before too long.” Buck stated, “Can’t track in the dark and I’m not to interested in approaching that ranch unless they can see us coming.”

“Buck’s got a point.” Noah said, “they’re likely to shoot before talking.” 

“We’ll camp here tonight. Head in at first light!”

Feeling slightly normal with his fever broken, Kid blinked his eyes as he realized there was someone laying in bed with him. Turning his head he stared at Lou’s sleeping face in the pale light from the partial light of a lantern that burned in the corner of the room. Glancing around he noted there wasn’t anyone else in the room and Lou’s clothes she’d been wearing earlier in the day were draped over a chair. 

Frowning he shifted and studied Lou, unless he missed his guess she was sleeping au natural, feeling himself stir at the thought he quickly closed his eyes and rolled away from her before she woke up and got mad.

Lou woke up at Kid’s movements and lay there for a moment. Opening her eyes slightly she noticed his reaction to her presence and the way he rolled over to hide it.  Smiling slightly she shifted innocently until she was laying against his back. She felt him tense then relax when he thought she’d moved in her sleep. Struggling not to laugh at him she closed her eyes and draped an arm over his waist. He wasn’t in any shape to be doing any dancing at least for a while. 

Kid sighed as Lou wrapped an arm around his waist and closed his eyes, he was still so tired it didn’t take long for him to fall asleep. In the last three days they’d been doing so many leg exercises that he was beginning to think his legs were going to fall off. Thankfully though, Lou always insisted they go down to the swimming hole to do some swimming, making life bearable. 
Pulling Kid closer to here, she felt him go back to sleep and smiled as she kissed his shoulder, snuggling against him she groaned as her body responded to his and tried to concentrate on sleep instead of passion.

Teaspoon stared at Buck who’d just tensed. The sun was starting to get pretty hot, the horses were tired and he needed something to drink other than Cody’s bad coffee. “What is it?” he asked softly.

Buck glanced around trying to find the source of the sound that had reach his ears, slipping the loop off his gun he glanced at Teaspoon and shrugged, “I’m not sure. I can hear something but it’s too far away for me to hear exactly what. I know it’s voices but I can’t make out what they’re saying.”

“We’ll split up. Each take a different direction.” Teaspoon said, “Leave the horses here. Noah you mind watching the horses and our backs?”

“Not at all Teaspoon. Be careful.”

Separating the boys inched their way forward unsure of what was going on. 

“Come on Kid, you’ve got to try again.” Lou said splashing Kid with the water and grinning as she pushed away from him against the stone ledge she was resting against. Keeping one stroke ahead of him allowed them to turn this workout into a game. They’d spent a lot of time in this pond the last few days talking about where they were going in their relationship and Lou felt confident that Kid loved her still.

“You know Lou this was a good idea.” Kid said splashing her with his hand, and inched closer to where she was treading water. “But I think one of these days it’s gonna be you chasing me.”

Lou laughed as Kid pulled her closer for a quick kiss before he pushed away from her and swam out into the deeper portion of the water. The bruised muscles and tendons in his leg meant he limped something he wasn’t too happy about although he had yet to complain.  Glancing around at a slight sound Lou noted a figure walking toward them and shrieked a moment before she went under.

Kid glanced in the direction Lou’d been looking and swore, “What the hell are you doing creeping up on folks?” He demanded as Jimmy stopped at the edge of the water.

“What are you doing screaming?” Jimmy laughed as he glanced around.

“That wasn’t me. It was Lou and you’re gonna get it when she realizes..” Kid started as Lou came up for air behind him.

“James Butler Hickok, ain’t you got any manners?” Lou demanded as she treaded water behind the Kid.

“Hi Lou.” Satisfied that the only ones around were Kid and Lou, Jimmy turned to them and froze. Kid looked like hell, his face was bruised, one eye had obviously been swollen shut and the cuts on his nose and busted lip attested to the fact that he’d been in a fight. What was surprising though was the jagged cut running from his temple to his jaw. “What the hell happened to you Kid?” he demanded as he realized that thee were multiple bruises all over Kid’s torso. He wondered briefly who’d turned Lou loose but forgot it when he realized Lou was clinging to Kid like he was her lifeline.

Kid glared at Jimmy for reminding him of the fact that he looked like he’d been stomped, “What’s it look like?” he growled as Lou edged toward where they’d left their clothes. 

Cody frowned when he saw the bundle of clothes on a bush and picked them up, turning he headed back to where he could hear Teaspoon and Buck talking. “Look what I found.” He handed the articles of clothe to Teaspoon who took them and sent him a curious look. “Found these hanging on the branch of a spruce tree. I didn’t see anyone.”

“Some boys going for a swim.” Teaspoon said. “Probably the hands from the ranch.

Lou was thankful that Jimmy was focused on Kid’s bruises for once as she got out of the water, swimming nude had its disadvantages if you were a girl. Grabbing the blanket she’d folded near the water in case Kid got tired she wrapped it around her shoulders and took the few strides into the brush to find their clothes had disappeared.

“Jimmy where are they?” She snapped as she walked up to Jimmy.

“What are you talking about?” Jimmy asked puzzled as Lou stormed up to him.

“Our clothes Hickok. I don’t see anyone else around here but the three of us, and I know Kid didn’t jump out of the water and hide them. Where are they?” Lou poked him in the chest angrily.

“I don’t know. Maybe one of the boys found them.” Jimmy replied.

“One of the boys?” Lou spoke slowly, her temper rising.

“Yeah. Teaspoon, Buck and Cody are within shouting distance.” Jimmy explained, “You want to ask them?”

Lou glared at Jimmy as Kid tugged on the blanket, “Lou!”

“Yeah Kid.” Turning to Kid she noted the pain in his eyes, “What is it?”

“Muscle spasm. You want to give me a hand out of here.” He grunted feeling his leg spasming was more painful that Lou’s hitting him in the head.

“Jimmy give me a hand.” Lou said, tucking one end of the blanket under itself so it was tied she grabbed a hold of Kid’s arm and pulled. When he was sitting out of the sun warmed sand she could see the muscles as they rippled under the skin. Within seconds they’d stopped but she knew Kid was tired. Grabbing the towels she glanced at Jimmy, “You got something he can wear on you?”

“Uh?” Jimmy glanced between them and rolled his eyes. He quickly shucked his jacket off and passed it to Lou who slipped into it easily, and stripped his pants off to give to the Kid, “You two are going to owe me.”

“Think of it this way. I haven’t killed you have I?” Lou asked as she helped Kid into the pants and then to stand. “Come on Kid. We’d better get back to the house. The doctor’s coming out soon.”

Kid nodded, “I’m beginning to hate that man.”

Lou laughed, “You’re beginning to hate being cooped up.”

“That to.” Kid said as he leaned heavily on Lou. 

Jimmy noted the distinct limp Kid had walking and grabbed a hold of him as they headed back along the trail, “So did Lou tell you how she got here?” Jimmy asked certain that Kid knew.

“Um she rode.” Kid replied grimacing at the pain of the bruised muscles. 
“Why?”

“Well normally I wouldn’t say anything.”

“And you aren’t going to start.” Lou snapped. She wasn’t too sure Kid wouldn’t have kittens if he knew she’d rode Katy. He hadn’t said a word when he’d seen the speckled mare the other day so she thought he figured she’d led the mare here. Until she was sure what he’d say though she was just going to relax and wait for him to question the mare’s arrival.

“You’re the one that said..”Jimmy started.

“Jimmy if you want to live another minute, I suggest you shut up.” Lou warned as they came around the corner and spotted Teaspoon, Buck, and Cody talking.

Jimmy chuckled and bit his lip at Lou’s dirty look. 

Buck glanced over and tapped Teaspoon, “Look.” He indicated the direction he’d been looking.

Teaspoon and Cody turned around, Jimmy and Lou were walking back with Kid between them. Cody laughed at the way the trio were dressed and tucked the clothes he’d found under his coat. Knowing Lou he’d get killed if she saw them.

“What happened to your pants?” Teaspoon asked Jimmy who was walking around without his pants or his jacket.

“Someone took their clothes.” Jimmy replied. “Wasn’t going to let them walk around naked.”

“Nice dress Lou.” Cody laughed, Lou in Jimmy’s jacket and a blanket was definitely worth the wait.

“Shut up Cody.” Lou snapped as she helped Kid sit down, “I’ll get the horses.”

Kid nodded and stretched out his leg, he rubbed the muscles and waited while everyone let Lou disappear around the brush before they turned to him.

“What in the name of all that’s holy happened to you boy?” Teaspoon demanded.

“What do you think?” Kid snapped. He didn’t want to talk about the men that had jumped him. Duncan Tyler had already sent out riders and from what he could understand several of the men were in jail in town. 

“Come on Kid. If we’re late Elizabeth is going to be impossible.” Lou said leading Katy and the other horse forward. She waited patiently while Kid struggled into the saddle before looking at her own horse. Grimacing in disgust she tucked the blanket around her legs and swung up. 

“By the way who ever took our clothes, I’m going to kill you.” Lou snapped as she turned her horse around, “I happen to dislike riding in a blanket.”

“But Lou..”Cody protested as the boys glared at him.

“You coming or just gonna stand there like a bunch of mushrooms?” Kid snapped as he urged Katy into a jog.

“We’ll just get the horses.” Teaspoon said as he saw Noah coming around the corner with the horses and another rider.

“Kid!” Matthew Carson shook his head, “Elizabeth said the doctor is here and you’re running late. Bring your friends and lets get back to the house.”

“Why couldn’t that man ever be late?” Kid muttered to Lou who just laughed and fell into stride with him.

The boys and Teaspoon followed silently as they approached a large house and watched a young woman and an older man step out. Swinging down with Lou, Jimmy hurried to help the Kid if he needed it and glanced at the man on the steps.

“You have trouble?” Duncan asked.

“Naw. This is Teaspoon and the boys from Rock Creek, came looking for us.” Lou explained.

“Where are your clothes?” Elizabeth laughed.

“A funny little man stole them.” Lou growled glaring at a guilty looking Cody, before headed inside with Kid. “I’m going to get dressed Kid. Is the doctor in the room?”

“No he’s in the study.” Elizabeth said, “Come on Kid. Your new best friend is here.”

“I don’t think it’s fair to call him that.” Kid muttered limping along.

“Don’t worry about it Kid. You see more of him that most women see of their husbands.” Elizabeth laughed as she helped him down the hall.

“Speaking of husbands don’t you think you should go talk to yours?” Kid protested as she led him into the study.

Teaspoon faced the older man, “Much obliged for helping him.”

“Think nothing of it. I have sons and daughters of my own. You care for something to drink?”

“Anything but coffee.” Buck stated glancing at Cody.

“Hey I make good coffee.”

“No you make awful coffee.” Jimmy replied feeling a little out of place in his long johns. When the study door opened he stepped behind Buck and hoped the woman would just go by. He nodded at her as she handed him his pants back, “Thanks.”

“Don’t worry about it. My brothers did the same thing to us girls all the time. Course I don’t think you want Lou to find out who stole those clothes. She’s liable to kill you.” Elizabeth smiled as she heard Lou hurrying down the steps. Glancing up she noted the woman was buttoning the bottom of her shirt as she descended the steps.

“Nice skirt.” Cody said seeing bare ankles and feet as Lou hurried down the stairs.

“Cody.” Teaspoon warned as Lou sent him a look filled with daggers and hurried toward the study, a pair of pants and a white shirt under her arms.

When the boys sat down at the supper table that night, Cody sat as far from Lou as he could. He’d given the clothes to Elizabeth who’d taken them to be washed with a small smile and a shake of her head. 

“Any word on what happened?” Teaspoon asked Duncan, “I hate when my boys get hurt. This time was so senseless, he didn’t have any mail, was just on his way home.”

“We’ve got two of them in the jail in town. As for the others my riders didn’t find anything. I imagine they’re back across the border.”

“Kid say anything about it other than he’d been jumped?” Teaspoon asked as the man in question came into the room looking utterly exhausted. Lou was already sitting down, she’d changed into another dress and was busy talking to Elizabeth in a very animated conversation.

“No I am not moving into another room. Kid needs me.” Lou whispered.

“Father doesn’t care, I don’t care. But your friends may mind you sleeping together.” Elizabeth replied.

“Considering all we’re doing is sleeping, I doubt it. I sleep in the same room with him in Rock Creek!”

“In the same bed?” Elizabeth asked as Kid sat down next to Lou. She noted the blush creeping up Lou’s face and sighed, “Sometimes right?”

Lou nodded, “I’m not moving!”

“Louise!” Elizabeth sighed, “I’m not saying you have to, all I’m saying is you might want to get someone to move a cot into your room for now!”

“Whatever.” Lou said, “Don’t mean I’m gonna use it.”

“Fine. I’ll have Matthew move a cot into your room and you can do whatever you want to behind closed doors.” Elizabeth laughed at Lou’s slight discomfort.

“Sounds good to me.”

“I’ll arrange things after dinner.” Elizabeth turned her attention to her husband as Lou picked at her food.

“What was that all about?” Kid asked leaning against her.

“We get a cot added to the room.” Lou whispered back. “I’d rather not sleep in another room Kid, you still have trouble at night.”

“Sure with getting comfortable.” Kid replied, “But a cots better than another room.”

“I agree.” Lou replied and smiled at him. Glancing at Cody she raised an eyebrow and noted he looked away. She hid her smile and turned to the conversation going on around her.

“What are we supposed to do about this?” Jimmy asked seeing how gingerly Kid was eating, he knew his friend had to be in a great deal of pain.

“The only thing we can do. We’ll help the local law catch these bastards then we’ll go home.” Teaspoon replied. “Do you mind if Kid hangs out here for a while?”

“Not at all. He’s more than welcome.” Duncan replied quickly. “I’ll get the men that have already gone out to give you a hand. I don’t know how much more you can do, they’ve already worked the trail.”

“Buck’s pretty good at finding a trail that’s hard to spot.” Teaspoon said noting the easy way that these people dealt with Buck’s presence. 

“I’m sure he is. Again, if you need any assistance please don’t hesitate to ask.” Duncan replied noting the handsome half-blood. He shrugged, the color of a man’s skin didn’t make the man.

When the meal was over Kid rose shakily to his feet and shuffled from the room, he ached all over and all he wanted was to lay down. He closed the bedroom door and sank onto the edge of the bed, gritting his teeth as his leg protested the work out he’d given it today.

“Damn.” He glared at the bottle of ladanum the doctor had left and shook his head, no he wouldn’t take that stuff. Lou had said she knew someone who’d become addicted to that stuff and he didn’t want to end up like that.

“You okay?” the door opened and Jimmy stepped into the dark room. He lit a lamp and noted Kid was working the muscles in his leg.

“Yeah. The muscles are just sore from swimming, riding and that doctor’s poking and prodding.” Kid replied through gritted teeth.

“How come your leg’s so bad?”

“The muscles, tendons and bone are bruised.” Kid replied. “If I’m lucky all I may wind up with is a slight limp.”

“A slight limp is better than not walking I guess.” Jimmy said sitting next to the Kid. He fell silent as Kid massaged the muscles until they relaxed and refrained from mentioning the tears Kid was shedding. From the looks of it, the beating Kid had gotten had a bad one, he was glad he wasn’t in the man’s shoes.

“I guess you don’t want to come down and play some cards then?” Jimmy asked.

“Sorry, I think I’m just going to crash for a while.” Kid replied quickly. “This takes a lot out of me. Maybe Lou’ll play cards with you.”

“Naw. She’s busy taking to Elizabeth about something.”

“That bunk thing.” Kid replied flopping back on the bed with a sigh. He tossed an arm over his eyes and lay there as Jimmy rose. “Good night.”

“Night Kid.” Jimmy quietly left the room and headed downstairs. He nodded at Lou who was sitting talking to Buck and Noah and slapped Cody on the shoulder, “You up for a game of cards?”

“Sure anything to get away from Lou.” Cody replied rising from where he was sitting with only a passing glance at Lou.

“So what did Kid say to you riding Katy?” Noah asked, “Did he have a fit?”

“No.” Lou replied. “I’m sure he’ll be fine with it.”

“He doesn’t know?” Buck grinned, “You’re a brave woman.”

“No just desperate.” Lou shook her head, “You should have seen him when I got here. He could barely move, he had so many bruises and cuts I thought he’d been trampled. Whoever did this deserves to hang.” Lou frowned at her hands in her lap. 

“At least he’s up walking around. He’s not moving very fast, but he’s moving.” Buck said. He wouldn’t admit it but he thought Lou was wrong, they didn’t deserve to hang they deserved a slow death. “How come you’re so worried?” He asked sipping his coffee, “You and he ain’t uh?” He paused unsure how to ask what he wanted to know.

Lou smiled, “Riding double?”

“Yeah.”

“Not yet, although we are riding the same trail now.” Lou rose and stretched out the kinks in her body, “Besides what you don’t know, makes things easier for us.”

Noah laughed at Lou’s secret little smile and reach for his coffee, “You off to bed?”

“Yeah. Gotta be up early. Kid’s going swimming again tomorrow.” Lou said waving as she walked past Jimmy, slapping Cody in the back of the head along the way she headed up the stairs.

“Lou.” Teaspoon stepped closer to the foot of the stairs.

“Yes Teaspoon,” Lou paused despite the lack of physical work she’d been doing she was tired.

“Next time come get us.” Teaspoon smiled at her as she quickly smiled and hurried up the stairs. 

Kid stirred as Lou slipped into bed, turning over he puled her closer to him and slipped back into sleep. Smiling into the darkness, Lou snuggled into his heat and closed her eyes the cot that had been set up in the corner unnoticed.

Kid groaned as Lou shook him awake, squinting he saw it was nearly dawn, “Don’t you have anything better to do than wake me up?” he grumbled good naturedly.

“Sure. But it’ll get us into trouble. Come on Kid, it’s time for your morning swim. Doc said it’ll help. You don’t want him out here do you?” Lou teased knowing Kid hated the doctor’s visits. They usually meant that he’d be sore from the work out he’d give him.

“I’m coming.” Kid groaned and rose slowly. He grabbed his clothes and dressed before joining Lou who’d dressed and was waiting by the door to their room. “I could’ve used another hour or so of sleep.”

“So could I. Just think, after our swim we can come back and nap.” Lou promised as she opened the door. They headed downstairs, unmindful of the partially opened door where a grizzled man stood watching them with a slight frown.

“Damn.” Teaspoon said, he hadn’t heard any movement except from the room Lou and Kid had exited. Glancing at Buck and Noah who were sharing his room he shook his head, “Hey you two wake up, I’ve got a job for you?”

Smothering a protest Buck rose and dressed quickly. After Teaspoon told him what he wanted he looked at Noah and they headed outside. “Why are we spying on the Kid and Lou?” Noah yawned.

“Because Teaspoon said to.” Buck replied following the two horses a head of them to the pond. He glanced away when Kid shrugged out of his shirt and waited while Lou stripped before jumping into the water, Kid followed her a little slower.

“Come on.” Noah groaned, “I can just hear them. You’re spying on us! How could you?”

“I don’t like this one little bit.” Buck whispered tying his horse up and taking a seat under a stand of spruce. “Wonder why Teaspoon’s so worried about them. Kid isn’t about to take advantage of Lou.”

“Maybe she’ll take advantage of him.” Noah replied as the pair swam a couple of laps.  They could hear Lou laughing at something the Kid had said but were hesitant to get any closer.

Lou laughed at Kid’s perverted look, “I haven’t got a clue?”

“Well there has to be a reason, Buck and Noah are sitting under those trees watching us. Did you say anything to them?”

“No. But that don’t mean anything. Probably just wanted to make sure we’re not going to get into trouble.” Lou replied treading water as Kid swam around her a couple of times. 

“I’m sure we’ll find out.” Kid said swimming up to her, “I’m thinking Teaspoon’s going after those boys that aren’t in jail.”

“That’s exactly what he’s going to do.” Lou replied as Kid ducked under and came up pushing his wet hair out of his eyes.

“You going with him?”

“Thinking about it.” Lou replied.

Kid frowned at her words then looked at her with worry plain in his expression, “Just be careful okay.”

Lou studied him for a minute then smiled, wrapping her arms around his neck she laughed, “Oh Kid! Just when I think I’ve gotten you figured out, you do something that totally surprises me.” 

“Gotta keep you on your toes.” Kid replied pulling her a little closer. “Just promise me you’ll be careful. Don’t let the boys talk you into anything.”

“I’ll be careful. I’m not about to let you get away now!” Lou said as she leaned forward to kiss him.

Buck groaned and glanced at Noah, “Why is it Teaspoon’s punishing us? I really don’t want to watch them uh.”

“Maybe we should let them know we’re here.” Noah suggested quietly, “I’m not in a hurry to watch them either.”

“Teaspoon said not to let them know.” Buck retorted.

“Who’s gonna tell him we did.” Noah pointed out, “I won’t tell if you won’t.”
“They might.”

“I doubt it. I don’t think they want the boys to know what we know.”

Buck laughed and nodded, “Probably not. I can’t see them wanting anyone to know they’re dancing.”

Neither man was paying much attention to the pair in the water until Noah felt something dripping on him. Glancing up he flushed guiltily as he met Lou and Kid’s eyes. “Morning.”

“You come down for a swim?” Lou asked laughing at their unease.

“Uh.” Noah glanced at Buck for help and back at Kid and Lou.

“So why did Teaspoon send you down here to watch us?” Kid asked folding painfully to the ground next to Buck.

“Said he saw you two leaving the same room. Wanted to make sure you weren’t takin’ advantage.” Buck shrugged sheepishly. “I told him he was imagining things but he insisted.”

“There is a cot in Kid’s room you know.” Lou pointed out quickly. 

“But did you use it?” Noah asked and shrugged when Kid glared at him.

“Come on you three, we’ve got to get back.” Kid struggled to his feet, “Unless I miss my guess Teaspoon’s probably got Jimmy and Cody up. If we don’t turn up, he’s likely to send them down here. Personally I don’t want anyone to be aware of this little conversation.”

“Told you.” Noah looked at Buck with a cocky grin, “We’ll keep our mouths shut won’t we Buck?”

“Oh yes.” Buck agreed as they grabbed the horses. 

“Good. Hate to have to kill you two.” Lou drawled as she started walking back. Kid fell into step with her and after a moment’s hesitation the other two followed.

“How is it we’re walking back?” Buck asked.

“It’s better for Kid’s leg to walk.” Lou explained smiling at the Kid. 

Jimmy sat on the stoop and watched Teaspoon pace his brow furrowed. “What are you worried about Teaspoon? Lou ain’t killed the Kid yet so she must be going to stick with him.”

“It ain’t that.” Teaspoon replied, “Anybody have an idea where she slept last night?”

“Sure in the room three doors down from yours.” Cody replied. “The second one from the top of the stairs. Right next to our room.”

“And where did Kid sleep?” Teaspoon smiled as realization dawned on Jimmy’s face, “I don’t think our hosts would approve.”

The door opened and Elizabeth stepped out after her husband, they smiled at the boys, “I’ll see you tonight Honey. Take it easy.” Matthew said and headed for the barn. 

Elizabeth watched him till he went through the doors before turning to Teaspoon. “I wouldn’t be worrying too much about that Mr. Hunter. There is a cot in the room.”

“A cot?” Teaspoon frowned.

“Yeah, Lou refuses to sleep anywhere else. So I had a cot moved in the room. Kid still has problems at night. She wanted to be close in case he needed help.” Elizabeth explained.

“How’d you hear what we were saying?” Teaspoon asked.

“I didn’t. Lou and I had a chat last night at supper.” Elizabeth smiled. “Breakfast is in half an hour. By the looks of it, they’re coming back with the watch dogs you sent.”

Teaspoon glanced down the path and noted Kid and Lou deep in conversation with Buck and Noah. Feeling a touch foolish he watched the foursome approach, Kid limping a little less than yesterday but he still looked pained. 

“Morning.” Teaspoon addressed everyone.

“Morning.” Lou acknowledged everyone as she tied her horse up in front of the house. “When are you riding out?”

“After breakfast.” Teaspoon replied noting Kid watching Katy with a neutral gaze. 

Lou nodded and headed inside she had to get ready if she was to ride with the boys. When she had her saddlebag ready she turned to find Kid standing there watching her. “I didn’t hear you come in.”

Shrugging Kid watched her for a moment before responding. “There’s something I wanted to tell you before you go. I know you’re capable of handling yourself, but please be careful.”

“I will.” Lou smiled as she hugged him hard, “You follow doctors orders okay. I’ll see you when I get back.”

Kid smiled, “I’ll be here. I love you.”

Lou grinned and kissed him, “I love you to.” She whispered as she pulled back. She studied him a moment then hurried from the room and down the stairs. The boys had already saddled up and were getting things ready. 

Sitting down to breakfast, everyone noticed Kid didn’t join them but didn’t say anything. They knew how he felt about Lou riding with them and sometimes it was better to let things lay then stir ‘em up.

After a silent breakfast the boys and Lou mounted up and headed out with three of Duncan’s riders. From the bedroom window Kid watched them till they were out of sight a smile tugging on his lips as he realized Lou was riding Katy.

“Kid? You want anything to eat?” Elizabeth knocked and entered the room Kid had been sleeping in.

“No thank you. I’m not really hungry.” Kid replied turning from the window. He studied his hostess, “I hope things work out.”

“I’m sure they will. The boys will watch out for her.” Elizabeth stated. “She’s lucky.”

“We both are.” Kid replied. “When’s that torture specialists supposed to get here?”

“Unless I miss my guess that’s him driving up now. You better get down stairs if you want to avoid him coming looking for you.” Elizabeth retreated, she knew Kid would push himself harder than ever with Lou gone. Shaking her head she headed downstairs. Sometimes love was so confusing.

It took Buck two days to locate a trail, then another four to follow it to a small box canyon that looked like they’d been living there for some time. From where they sat Teaspoon studied the four men below, they had good horses and two wagons. “I’m not sure if this was a random act or if they’re part of something bigger.”

“Look.”Buck pointed to the approaching riders and they glanced at each other as recognition set in. “Ain’t that Jed’s right hand man?”

“Yeah.” Teaspoon glanced at Lou’s snarl.

“Lou take it easy. We got to find out what we can before we got marching in.” Teaspoon patted her on the shoulder.

“It don’t matter.” Lou replied. “They should all be in jail.”

“I agree.” Jimmy replied, he hated the way Kid had been treated. Granted they didn’t always see eye to eye but the Kid was his best friend, next to Lou and he knew the other man felt the same way about him.

“If we surround them then let them know we’re here. We might get the drop on them.” Teaspoon suggested.

“I hope so.” Buck said glancing around. “Noah and I’ll go this way, the rest of you find a safe place to be, they may start shooting as soon as they hear us moving around.”

Nodding quickly everyone got into place as Buck and Noah inched their way around the men until they were in a good position to get a clear shot.

Before Teaspoon could utter a word, the sounds of a gun blast rocked the air. Glancing up he noted the men down below had spotted something or someone in the rocks. From where he was sitting it looked like Buck had drawn their fire.
“Okay.” Nodding Teaspoon noted the way the boys reacted and soon the only sound were gunfire popping off.

“Hold your fire boys. You’re under arrest for assault.” Teaspoon shouted down.

“Go to hell Hunter. We ain’t gonna hang for that boy.” the man shouted back.

“You’re right! You ain’t gonna hang. You keep this up you’re gonna be planted six feet below with only lead in your guts.” Teaspoon shouted back even as Lou glared at him. 

“Like you’re gonna do that. What you got with you that bunch of boys the Kid was riding with. Ain’t one of them able to take us on and win and you know it.” the man laughed.

“Like hell there ain’t.” Lou muttered as she reloaded.

“Lou!” Teaspoon hissed, “You get yourself hurt Kid’ll kill us. You stay put you hear.”

Lou looked at Teaspoon coldly, “I’m not going to let them get away with this Teaspoon. As aggravating as Kid can be, he still didn’t deserve to be stomped like that.”

“I know that.” Teaspoon said and swore as he realized he was talking to thin air. “Hickok you find Lou. Keep her out of trouble.” 

Jimmy shook his head and followed orders, he found Lou inching her way down a thin trail, grabbing an arm he shook his head and pointed to a short outcropping of stone a few feet in front of them. “That’s a better spot. At least offers some cover.”

Lou nodded and altered her direction a little. Sinking behind the rocks she looked at Jimmy with a frown, “It don’t make sense to attack him.”

“Sure it does.” Jimmy replied. “He’s Jed’s brother, I killed Jed leaving that guy high and dry for a spell. What better way to get even than to attack the man who should have stepped in to his brother’s shoes.”

Ducking as bullets struck within inches of their heads Lou rolled over and fired back. The stone around her shattered as bullets struck it and she lost track of Jimmy as he moved to another position to return the fire they were getting from below.

Seeing another man down, Buck smiled slightly. He felt bad for the way everyone had been treating Kid lately, they knew he was hurting and had allowed his bad moods to come to the front. Biting his head off and picking fights with him hadn’t helped, it had only made matters worse. He’d taken a run he wasn’t supposed to, and Lou had gone from silently sulking to being a foul tempered little shrew something he hated to see. 

“There’s only one left.” Noah whispered, “We’re gonna have a lot of explaining to do when we take the bodies into town.”

“Don’t worry about it.” Buck replied, “We’ve been here before. Teaspoon handles this part of the mission. We’re just supposed to head for home.” Buck instructed. 

“I give up!” the voice from below had Buck drawing a deep breath of relief, now all they had to worry about was Lou.

“What do you mean?” Noah asked startling Buck who hadn’t realized he’s spoken aloud.

“Lou’s gonna kill him if she gets her hands on him.” Buck explained.

“We should probably avoid that.” Noah said with a chuckle, “Kid would kill us if anything happened to her.”

“I know.”

“Where to?” William asked although he knew.

“Swimming hole. Doctor said I need to keep doing what I’ve been doing. My leg’s coming along real good.”

“As long as I can ride, I don’t mind.” William teased gently. He watched Kid grin and realized the young man was actually happy to be keeping this busy with the exercise the doctor had give him. Following him they fell into step, William looking longingly at his horse as he went by before turning to walk silently down to the swimming hole.

As was the routine, Kid spent hours at the pond, it helped to relax his tired muscles and yet played him out enough that he could sleep at night. He missed Lou, he even missed the boys who had been a pain for the last couple of weeks before he’d taken that last run. 

“When do you figure they’ll be back?” William asked dangling his feet in the water.

“Soon I hope.” Kid said as he made another round in the pond. Stopping in front of William he tilted his head, “How’s your missus doing?”

“Good. She’s staying close to home seeing’s how the baby’s due anytime.”

“You want a girl or a boy?” Kid asked thinking that he wanted a little girl if he and Lou were ever blessed enough to get to the point where they were talking about a family.

“Don’t matter. Long as it’s healthy.” William laughed. “Come on you’re starting to look like my Grandfather with all those wrinkles. Best get back up to the house, Mr. Tyler wants me to look at that new stallion he bought before supper.”

Smiling Kid waded out of the water and dressed quickly, he was bone tired and his body ached but at least he knew he’d sleep soundly tonight. Even if his dreams were filled with images of Lou and him making love.

The walk back to the house was slow going to say the least, but at least it gave them a chance to enjoy the late afternoon sun. Once at the house, Kid headed inside and up the stairs to lay down.       

Lou sighed, relieved to see the massive house a short ride up the driveway. Glancing at the boys she noted they were too involved in discussing whether Cody had actually won at cards the night before and not interested really in where they were.

“I’ll see you at the house.” She said nudging Katy into a gallop.

“Wait! Where are you going?” Jimmy called after her, not hearing what she said. Looking at the others he saw confusion on their faces same as he felt.

“She went to the house.” The red haired man that Duncan had sent with them spoke. “It’s five hundred yards down the drive.”

“Figures.” Cody muttered. “Kid didn’t seem too bothered with her riding Katy. At least not the way I thought he would be considering..”

“Considering Lou’s stubborn ways, I’d say he’s acting as expected. Knowing Lou they’ll be back together before they leave here.” Buck said as the Tyler riders galloped off toward the barn.

“How much you wanna bet on that?” Cody asked quickly.

Shaking their heads the boys laughed and urged their horses into a lope as they neared the barn. They noted William taking care of Katy and grinned, “That would have been easy money Cody if you could have talked us into it.” Jimmy laughed as he swung down. 

Lou darted up the steps after a brief hello to Elizabeth and entered the bedroom Kid had been using when she arrived. He lay stretched out on the bed, a thin sheet covering his obviously naked body. Feeling a tug on her heart she dropped her hat and guns on the chair and quickly locked the door. Walking up to the bed she kicked her boots off and knelt on the feather mattress, the dip in it didn’t wake him as she inched her way up the bed until she was straddling his waist. 

Leaning forward with a half grin she licked at his exposed chest and smiled as he shifted in his sleep. Using a feather light touch she bent to kiss his throat and move up to nip gently at his ear. He groaned as he shifted under her, responding to her light touch much to her delight. Blowing softly in his ear she tugged on it with her teeth and smothered a moan as he arched his pelvis into hers. 

“Mm Lou?” Kid woke slowly, feeling someone on him had him hoping he wasn’t dreaming again.

“Hi.” Lou brushed a light kiss on his lips, teasing him as he responded by trying to deepen the kiss. She repeated the same light teasing touch until he grabbed her head and held her in place to kiss her deeply, his tongue snaking into her mouth, mating with hers as it traced the contours of her tongue, teeth and lips. 

Feeling a thrill at making him respond she pulled back to rest on her sock feet as she slowly unbuttoned the shirt she wore. With each button the fire in his eyes got a little hotter until he reach up to help her, “You’re driving me crazy.” He moaned as she brushed his hands away. They seemed to fall automatically to her thighs where he squeezed as she slowly peeled the shirt off.

“Good. Now you know what I feel like every time you look at me.” Lou whispered as she slowly shook the shirt off her shoulders to toss it in the direction of the nearest chair, unmindful of the fact that it never reach the piece of furniture.

Arching into her touch, Kid watched her through his lashes a smile tugging on the corners of his lips. As she bent to kiss his chest again, her hands tracing the well tone muscles that came from hard work.

“I missed you.” Lou whispered tracing an invisible line with her lips down his chest toward his navel. She smothered a chuckle when he groaned and grabbed for her head, “Did you miss me?”

“More than you know.” Kid groaned as she reach the edge of the sheet. When she started back up the way she’d gone down he swore softly, and reach for the buckle on her belt. Undoing it with quick movements he pushed her pants off her hips and tugged on them when she lifted up to shimmy them down her legs. 

They both stilled at a knock on the door, “Lou you in there?” Jimmy called through the door.

Rolling her eyes she glared at the door, “Yeah what do you want?”

“Where’s the Kid?” Jimmy asked feeling Teaspoon staring at him from the bottom of the stairs.

“Why?” Lou closed her eyes as Kid suckled on her collarbone. Smothering a moan she pushed at the sheet laying between them and growled in frustration when it wouldn’t budge.

“Teaspoon wants to talk to him.” Jimmy explained.

“He’s not here at the moment.” Lou said as Kid pulled her a little higher on his body so he could push the sheet down toward the foot of the bed. Feeling his lips on her breast she moaned and glanced sharply at Kid when he nipped her already sensitive nipple.

“What are you doing?” Jimmy asked as he heard the carefully worded sentences coming from behind the closed door.

Choking on her laughter Lou arched into Kid’s touch as he rolled, pinning her beneath him, “Having a bath.” She replied as Kid lapped at her breast with his tongue, “A tongue bath.” she whispered just loud enough for Kid to ear.

Kid buried his face in her shoulder to stop the laughter at her statement.

“Well when you’re done your bath you might want to let him know.” Jimmy blushed as he heard the unmistakable sounds coming from the bedroom of both of them laughing softly, and the soft moan Lou made.  

“I’ll let him know.” Lou called watching Kid mouth the same words with a grin.

“Okay.” Turning Jimmy headed down the stairs and shrugged at Teaspoon as he headed to find the boys. Stepping outside he saw them standing by the corral watching the tired horses.

“Hey Jimmy you look a little flushed. You feeling okay?” Noah asked.

“What do you think?” Jimmy muttered resting his chin on his hands on the top railing of the corral. “Teaspoon’s gonna owe me big for that one.” 

“Let me guess he sent you to find out where Kid was?” Noah asked.

“Yeah.” Jimmy glanced at the other man. “Right where Lou wanted him I’d say.” 

Buck and Noah glanced at Jimmy’s muttered words and sighed. “That makes three of us he owes.”

“Really?” Cody said. “What’s he owe you? And what’s he owe you for?

“I haven’t figured that out yet. But I can tell you this, I’ve never been so embarrassed in my life.” Noah stated, “Makes me glad I’m not into working in a saloon.”

“What are you talking about?” Cody asked curious at the way the boys shuffled their feet, “You don’t mean Teaspoon sent you to spy on them when they were..?”Cody froze at the blushes on his fellow riders faces. “That’s disgusting!”

“Tell me about it.” Jimmy said. “You ever carry on a partial conversation with someone in the middle of uh taking an afternoon ride?”

“Jimmy!” Buck looked at his friend shocked at the way he’d put things. “That’s pretty vulgar if I do say so myself.”

“Yeah, well so was what they were doing by the sounds coming from the room.” Jimmy pushed away from the fence, “Anyone up to a swim?”

“Sure.” The boys instantly headed down to the pond and tried to forget the conversation they’d been having. 

Using a slow touch Kid traced the familiar contours of Lou’s abdomen and upper thighs as she moaned softly. Trailing wet kisses down her legs he always stopped just short of the apex of her thighs, he knew she wanted him there but he was going to drive her insane for a bit. 

Lou whimpered at the heat that was building under his expert touch, she reach out to touch him, tracing her hands and eyes over his body with undisguised lust. Licking her bottom lip she smiled at him when he paused before lowering his head to the center of her desire. Arching off the bed she grabbed a pillow to muffle the sound of ecstasy coming from deep inside her as his tongue made love to her. With every brush of his tongue on that spot her body trembled on the verge of exploding something she didn’t want to happen until he was inside her. 

Feeling out of control she reach for him only to have him lace his fingers through her’s and pin them to the bed. “Not yet.” he whispered ruthlessly, “I want you to cum for me first baby.” Groaning in pleasure he bent back to his task, leaving Lou breathless as she responded to his insistent touches.

“Kid!” She moaned as the tension in her body built to a fevered pitch and she could feel the pressure building stringing her tighter than Cody’s hat band. Gasping for air she pulled on her hands and cursed when he refused to let go. Closing her eyes tightly she bit her lip to keep from screaming as the tension in her body released catapulting her into bliss. Trembling as she felt her legs relax, spreading to allow him in as he slid gentle kissed down her thighs to her knees and back up. 

Letting her hands go, Kid traced lazy patterns up her body even as he felt her reach for him. Groaning at the friction of rubbing against her he inched his way up until he was laying on her with a lazy grin in her direction. His body throbbed with desire, his erection was damp from pre-cum as he watched her slowly coming down from the high of orgasm. When she smiled at him he leaned forward to kiss her, teasing her lips gently with his tongue until she opened them then darting inside to deepen the kiss.

Moaning as her hands found the hardness of him and gently stroked him, he thrust against her hands and felt a shaft of pleasure shoot straight through him. At her nudging he rolled over pulling her with him. Looking into her eyes he noted the happy little grin on her face and the mischief in her dark eyes.
Arching off the bed when she kissed his throat he stifled a groan when she traced circles around his aroused nipples then headed south. When her warm lips touched his member his whole body jerked, “Lou you’re killing me.” he whispered gutturally.

“Good.” Lou replied as she sucked on his thick erection. Feeling Kid tense she knew he was enjoying her ministrations. Ignoring his little pleas she pushed him nearly to the brink then backed off before starting all over again. She could feel his hands in her hair and the pressure on her head as he directed her movements. Glancing up to his face she saw the passion filled gaze he had on her, the blue of his eyes darkened nearly to black as she made love to him. 
Kissing the tip of his penis she started sliding back up his body, being careful to rub her nipples across his erection and sending an electric current between their bodies. She relished the tiny groan he made as she kissed her way up to his lips.

Rubbing herself against him she felt the pleasure building again as she rotated her hips in circular movements until he grabbed her hips to hold them steady. Arching against her center Kid pushed her toward the brink again, without actually entering her body. Feeling the tables turning, Lou leaned forward to grab a hold of the headboard and kiss his lips.

When he rolled her under him she grinned, he was close to losing control. His lips found hers again and suckled them as he nipped at the fullness, hearing her moan and feeling her moving her hips he raised up a little, intent on keeping things going for as long as possible. Feeling her nails biting into his shoulders he leaned forward to take her breast into his mouth again, and drive her to the brink.

“Kid please!” Lou whimpered. “I need you inside me.”

Moving slowly, he pushed into her depths and groaned at the sensations. Feeling her body clutch at him drove him insane and he had to bite his lip to keep from moving fast and hard within her. Taking short soft thrusts against her he impaled her on his member and stilled, giving her time to adjust to him.
“Kid!” Lou’s tone held quiet desperation. “Make love to me please!” She raised up to kiss him suckling on his tongue as his hips started to move. With each thrust tiny little shards of pleasure courses through her body, pushing her closer and closer to the ultimate pleasure. Meeting each thrust she could feel his response as they neared completion. Wrapping her legs around his hips, she urged him faster as her body strained against the urge to explode in desire. Feeling herself falling into the abyss of a massive orgasm Lou arched her head back as she felt her body falling apart, glad Kid was holding her. 
Feeling Lou’s muscles clutching at him, milking his seed Kid let go and fell with her. The pleasure was so intense it was like a white hot poker straight to the gut and he muffled his shout against her neck. They didn’t really need Teaspoon up here knocking on the door.

Smiling sleepily Lou held onto him as he rolled and lay next to her. Placing a hand on his heart she felt the rapid beating of it and soothed it with a gentle kiss. Closing her eyes she rested her head on his heaving chest and felt him wrap his strong arms around her and pull her close. 

Kid kissed her forehead and pulled her closer to him as they lay letting their bodies cool in the warm summer air. Kid felt Lou’s breathing even out and knew she’d fallen asleep smiling he pulled the sheet up over her and after kissing her he dressed quickly. Leaving her a note saying where he’d gone, he closed the door and headed for the swimming hole. His body was tired but he’d been sleeping when she’d got there so while he was pleasantly tired, he wasn’t as exhausted as she obviously was.

Jimmy glanced up and groaned, “Hey Kid.” He addressed the young man walking towards them in the pond.

“Jimmy. You boys having fun?” Kid asked hunkering down on the edge of the water.

“You could say that.” Jimmy glanced at Noah. “Course probably not as much as some people.”

Raising an eyebrow Kid rolled his shoulders and waited for the boys to finish Noah’s thought.

“Where’s Lou?” Cody asked frowning the way everyone was acting he knew something was going on but no one was telling him.

“Sleeping last I saw.” Kid replied quietly noting the way Jimmy flushed and looked away. “Why?”

“Just figured she’d be down here with you.” Cody replied frowning at Jimmy.
"Nope.” Kid shrugged. “She’s pretty tired.”

“You coming in for a swim?” Buck asked innocently. Thankful for once that Cody wasn’t aware of what was going on.

Kid paused, he’d seen the faint tracks of Lou’s nails on his shoulders and knew the boys would pick up on them, but he had come down here to swim so he nodded and shucked his clothes. Jumping in he swam out to the deeper water and dived under. When he came up the boys had gathered round and he was glad Lou wasn’t there. 

“So how was the workout this afternoon?” Jimmy asked noting the faint pink lines on Kid’s shoulder. 

“Fine.” Kid replied pushing his hair out of his eyes. One of these days he was going to have to get it cut. “How was the ride back?”

“Not as interesting as yours.” Noah laughed at Kid’s slightly affronted look. 

“Would you like to let me in on this joke?” Cody demanded sulkily. “I have a feeling I’m missing something and it’s not funny.” 

Buck laughed at Cody’s irate expression, “We’re not leaving you out.” He stated. “Open your eyes.”

Kid laughed along with everyone and shook his head, “Say what did Teaspoon want with me Jimmy?”

“Uh I’m not sure.” Jimmy replied. “He didn’t say. Just that he wanted to see you.”

“I didn’t see him when I was leaving so obviously it couldn’t have been that important.” Kid said as he swam past Jimmy. He followed the usual pattern he had when he came down here. Better to keep the muscles in his leg working, then he could go back to work sooner as opposed to taking time off he couldn’t afford to.

“Probably the same reason Noah and I were here when you and Lou went swimming when we got here.” Buck stated quietly so Cody wouldn’t hear.

“Probably.” Kid shrugged. “Don’t matter I’ll see him at supper. Speaking of which it’s just about supper time. You want dinner you’d best get a move on.”

“We’ll wait for you.” Jimmy smiled sweetly. “Besides I want to know how come you didn’t have a fit when Lou rode Katy here.” 

Kid grinned, he’d figured that out when he’d seen the mare trotting around the corral. “Why should I?”

“You weren’t exactly riding double when she took her.” Buck said. 
“Considering how mad she got when Cody suggested Jimmy take the mare on the next run, I’d have thought you didn’t want anyone touching her.”

Kid looked at them and shook his head, “Lou and Jimmy are two different people. There’s lots of things Lou does I wouldn’t want Jimmy doing.”

The boys laughed and Kid rolled his eyes, “Just leave it be.”

“So it didn’t bother you?” Jimmy asked.

“No. I trust Lou.” Kid said pulling his shirt on and tucking it unbuttoned into his pants.

“Come on, we’re gonna be late for supper.” Cody called from up the path. 

“Coming!” Kid called and hurried after him leaving the other three standing exchanging glances.

“I’d say he had a very interesting ride this afternoon.” Jimmy stated quickly. “If those scratches on his back are any indication.”

“No wonder Lou’s so tired. He plum wore her out.” Noah laughed and headed up the path followed by the other two.

Shaking his head at the other two Buck followed without a word. He’d never say so but he agreed with them. Too bad he hadn’t been a fly on the wall, they probably could have taught him a thing or two.
    

Teaspoon studied Kid and Lou as they finished dinner, noting they sat deep in conversation and wondered what was so important. Kid still hadn’t come to talk to him and he wondered if maybe he’d been right, maybe those two were getting back together. Shaking his head slightly he turned to their host.

“When do you plan on heading back to Rock Creek?” Duncan asked quietly as the table was cleared by the servants.

“Probably tomorrow. Can’t leave Rachel too long, and the boys have jobs to do.”

“It’s gonna be nice to get back to the boring old runs for a change.” Cody said. “All this riding around and such has been killer on my appetite. I’ve hardly eaten anything.”

Elizabeth stared at the young man who’d spoke. “You’ve hardly eaten anything? You had three helpings of every meal we’ve had since you arrived! How much do you eat when you’re home?”

“Oh about the same, maybe a little more. Just at home I can eat anytime, usually work in a couple of snacks during the day.” Cody explained as everyone groaned. 

“Cody just eat.” Lou said as Kid grinned. 

“You coming back with us?” Jimmy asked glancing at the pair.

Kid glanced at Jimmy surprised. “Of course. Why wouldn’t I?”

“Well you haven’t been doing too much riding since we got here. Just curious.”

“Of course he’s going home with us. He’ll ride Katy and I’ll take the bay.” Lou snapped. “Sometimes Jimmy you’re I don’t know what.”

“Well at least you can take your next run then.” Cody said. “Saves me from having to do it.”

“Kid isn’t going to be taking a run for a week or so. He don’t need to be jostling himself all over the country until he’s recovered.” Teaspoon stated amongst protests from all the boys and Lou. “My mind is made up. You boys had better just learn to live with it.”

Lou hid a smile, “We’re gonna have to leave pretty early then.”

"The earlier the better.” Teaspoon responded. 

“I’m gonna turn in then. Good night.” Lou rose and headed for the doorway smothering a yawn. Climbing the stairs she laughed softly, Teaspoon didn’t know it but Kid was on to him and so was she. It might take a while, but they’d get even.

“Lou’s got a plan there Teaspoon.” Kid rose and glanced at Duncan and Elizabeth. “Thank you for dinner. It was excellent as usual.”

“Thank you. I’ll tell Annie.” Elizabeth smiled at the young man and realized she hadn’t moved Lou out of his room but it didn’t seem to worry him.

“Kid you got a minute?” Teaspoon rose and followed Kid out into the hallway. 
“Everything okay son?”

“What do you mean?” Kid asked perplexed by the question.

“Lou driving you crazy yet?”

“Lou always drives me crazy, usually in a good way.” Kid replied with a grin. “But no she’s not making me want to run the other direction. Why?”

“Just wondered. Don’t like it when my boys and girl are fighting.” Teaspoon responded somehow feeling like he’d been outfoxed.

“Goodnight Teaspoon.” Kid said with a smile and headed up the stairs. 

“Plenty of rest for the wicked.” Jimmy said and Buck and Noah laughed while Cody glared at him. 

“What aren’t you three telling me?”

“Come on.” Noah rose and waited for Cody. “I’ll explain it while we check on the horses.”

“Fine.” Cody followed Noah out of the room leaving everyone else looking at Jimmy and Buck.

“What was that all about?” Duncan asked.

“Cody figures we’re keeping a secret from him, when we aren’t really keeping anything from him. That is if he’d open his eyes.” Buck explained. “Sometimes Cody gets blinded to things right in front of him.”

“I see.” Duncan grinned. “I take it he doesn’t realize that Lou and Kid are more than friends?”

“Exactly.” Jimmy confirmed. “Lou did have a good idea. If we’re gonna be out of here by sunrise we’d best get some rest. Thank you for everything Mr. Tyler, Mrs. Carson.”

“Good night boys.” 

Kid closed the bedroom door still chuckling at the thought that Teaspoon wanted to know what he and Lou were doing. The lantern threw a pale gold light on the room and he noted Lou wasn’t in the room. Frowning slightly he shrugged and started to undress. 

Opening the door Lou noted the Kid was stripping down to get ready for bed and smiled, stepping closer the nightgown she’d borrowed sliding from her fingers unnoticed. Stepping up to where he stood she frowned. “Did I do that?” She asked tracing the scratch marks on his back.

“Yeah.” Kid glanced at her and smiled. “Don’t worry about it. They don’t hurt.” 

Lou smiled. “Guess we’ll just have to get used to them huh?”

“I guess.” Kid replied as he kissed her before stepping back to allow her to get ready for bed.

“You talk to Teaspoon?”

“Yeah. Wanted to know if everything was okay.”

“He sent three men to spy on us to find out if everything was okay?” Lou demanded slowly not sure she’d heard right. Quickly stripping down she slid in between the sheets and rolled over to her side to face Kid while he undressed. Watching him she felt the tiredness she’d been feeling fading replaced by desire and lust for the man in front of her. 

“Basically.” Kid stated as he set on the edge of the bed to shuck his boots and pants. Siding between the cool sheets he pulled Lou close to him and traced a lazy pattern on her naked skin. “I think he’s worried that something isn’t right.”

“What do you mean?”

“Well he thinks we’re still split.” Kid stated trying not to state that he wasn’t too sure himself. “I mean a few weeks ago we were at each other’s throats and I was being a dumb jackass with Samantha.”

“Did you tell him his worries were groundless?” Lou asked.

“I told him everything was fine.” Kid replied. “I didn’t want to put words in your mouth.”

“Telling him we’re reconciling isn’t putting words in my mouth.” Lou raised up and noted the hopeful look in his eyes. “Kid no matter how aggravating you’ve been, I’ve always loved you. I just needed some space I felt like I was being smothered. I’ve been on my own for so long Kid, it was scary leaning on someone else. I just didn’t want to get hurt.”

“And I certainly didn’t help matters by trying to protect you from yourself did I?” Kid smiled at her. “It wasn’t that I didn’t think you couldn’t handle a situation. I’m well aware that you can. It was more about my insecurities. I wanted and needed you to need me.”

“Kid I’m always gonna need you, but you have to realize that sometimes I need to be able to be me.” Lou replied. “Needing someone doesn’t mean that you have to smother them!”

“I wasn’t trying to smother you.” Kid replied quietly. “I guess I just didn’t know how to tell you what I was feeling so I clung.”

“As long as I can cling to you like you do to me we’ll be fine. I love you, you big oaf. I need you to want me the woman I am not some illusion.”

“I have no illusion about you. You’re strong and capable of dealing with life on your own, but you’re also pretty and smart and a hell of a woman. Even if you can’t cook!” Kid teased her gently.

Lou grinned as she realized he understood what she’d been saying. It might prove to be explosive, their relationship was for once on solid ground. “Thank you.”

“I love you Lou, always.” Kid kissed her gently, “We’d better get some sleep. Sunrise comes early.”

“Yeah.” Lou replied hiding her smile as she shifted under the sheet, “There’s only one problem with your thinking though darlin’.” 

“Yeah what would that be?” Kid could feel her inching even closer to him if that was possible. 

“We both had a nap this afternoon.” Lou whispered as her hand crept under the sheet trailing down his body.

“You’re heading for trouble woman.” Kid groaned as he responded to her touch. 

“This kind of trouble I can handle. It’s a lot more fun then the kind we usually get into.” Lou whispered sliding over to sit on him as she reach for the lantern. The both stilled at a knock on the door.

“Lou?” Cody’s voice drifted through the wood.

“I’m gonna kill him.” Lou muttered. “What?”

“Your nightgown’s in the hall.” Cody said holding the garment in question up to have a look at it. “You might want it.”

Groaning Lou grabbed Kid’s shirt and walked to the door. Pulling it open enough to reach through she smiled at Cody and grabbed the nightie. “Thank you. Glad you found it.” she snapped and closed the door locking it for good measure. 

Cody shrugged, Lou was her usual foul tempered self tonight. She just needed more rest and she’d be fine. He headed for his room, not seeing Jimmy or Buck standing behind him. 

“Should we let him in on it?” Buck asked. “Noah said he didn’t tell him anything.”

“I think so. Payback for their foul moods.” Jimmy nodded and headed for the room he shared with Cody. “Hey Cody.” He sunk onto the edge of the bed while Cody was brushing out his hair.

“What?” Cody glanced at his friends. “What is it this time?”

“So you gonna tell us?” Jimmy asked.

“Tell you what?”

“What Lou had on when she answered the door. It wasn’t the nightgown you were holding.” Buck replied.

“Her shirt.” Cody frowned. “I think. A shirt anyway, one that was a few sizes too big.”

“He gets to look and we’re stuck listening.” Buck moaned regretfully.

“What are you babbling about?” Cody demanded.

“Where exactly was Kid?”

“In bed..” Cody froze as realization dawned and he felt his face go red. “Eww I really didn’t want to know that.”

Jimmy and Buck laughed. “Too bad. Now you can fit in with the rest of us.” Buck rose and headed for his room, “Night you two.”

“That’s just disgusting.” Cody declared.

Jimmy shrugged and stretched out to get some sleep. “Night Cody.” 

Kid watched Lou walk back to bed, “Well that’s everyone.”

“Except Teaspoon and Rachel.” Lou groaned as she slid his shirt off and slipped between the sheets. “Now where were we?”

“I can’t recall.” Kid teased. “We’ll just have to start over again.” He pulled her into the bed, kicking the sheet out of the way as he kissed her. Using his tongue he teased her lips until she opened her mouth and let him inside. Kissing her gently he waited for her to take the lead, something that happened after only a few seconds. Rolling over with her on top, he let her lead him where she wanted to go.

Lou smiled as she kissed him passionately and broke the kiss, suckling on his lip she bit him hard and groaned when he arched into the pain, pulling her head back to him to kiss her roughly. 

Chuckling softly she used her tongue to trace circles down his throat and across his chest until she was suckling on his nipples. Flicking them with her tongue, she relished each and every moan he tried to smother. 

“Lou!” Kid protested when she rubbed her center of desire against his erection sending waves of pleasure up his body. Hearing her soft laughter he groaned and realized she was in control. Letting her lead could prove hazardous to his health he thought a moment before she took him in her mouth and he jumped as she raked her short nails across his abdomen.

“You like it when I do that?” Lou asked softly.

“Yeah.” Kid replied as he felt the wet heat of her mouth encircle the tip of his member. As she slid more into her mouth he bit back a cry of pleasure. 
Arching his hips he fell into a rhythm with her sucking until he knew he was close, “Lou no! I’m gonna come.” He pleaded pulling on her hair gently.
Smiling to herself Lou rose up and slid along his body until she was sitting on him, his erection between her legs. Sinking slowly down, she took all of him and gasped at the sensation of having him inside her. No matter how often they did this, it always felt like the first time she thought as she started moving slowly. With Jimmy and Cody in the room next door they didn’t need the headboard banging the wall.

Realizing why Lou was moving so easily Kid rolled, pinning her beneath him and draped her legs over his shoulders as he thrust into her heat. Bending down he kissed her roughly, sucking on her tongue when he could and letting her suck on his. Feeling his completion coming he reach between them for that tiny spot that was the center of her pleasure. 

Moaning into her mouth he felt her explode around him and let go to bury himself to the hilt while he erupted inside of her. For the second time that day he felt whole, complete like he was where he was supposed to be.

“Kid.” Lou’s soft moan had him shifting to the side pulling her on top of him as his body started to cool. 

“Hm?”

“We have got to do something about this. When we get back, we’ve got to figure out a way to get away, the boys ever find out exactly what we’re doing we’re gonna suffer.” Lou gasped for breath.

“Somewhere other than the barn?” Kid asked his chest heaving.

“The barn is good, but I’m thinking maybe your thinking spot. That way no one would hear us.” Lou replied licking at the sweat that covered Kid’s chest.

“I like it.” Kid replied chuckling, “As long as we can get away from the boys. Knowing them they’re gonna stick pretty close.”

“I’m sure we can think of something to get their attention away from us.” Lou replied. “Besides I don’t really care. If I want to be with you its not up to them to decide.”

Kid smiled and kissed her passionately, groaning as he did. “Lets get some sleep tomorrow’s going to be a long day.”

“Not as long as tonight.” Lou replied with a wicked grin as she closed her eyes.
Kid laughed softly and hugged her hard as he slipped into sleep, the blankets and sheet forgotten.

Cody glared at Jimmy who appeared to be sleeping, he hated this room. He could hear the rhythmic thuds coming from the next room and it was driving him crazy thinking about what they were doing. Sporadically he’d hear someone moan, pulling his pillow over his head he glared harder at his room-mate. 

“How can you sleep?” Cody hissed.

“I’m not sleeping.” Jimmy retorted. “But unless you want to go knock on the door we’ll just have to wait for them to play each other out.”

“That could take a while.” Cody replied. “At least they’re sleeping in between.”

“Cody where are your manners.” Jimmy chuckled. “It’s not nice to mention that sort of thing.”

“Jimmy I may have to listen to them banging on the wall, but I don’t have to like it.”

“You’re just jealous.” Jimmy laughed.

“Go to hell Hickok.” Cody snapped rolling away from the other man as a faint moan came through the wall.

Pulling the pillow over her face Lou groaned at the faint light creeping through the cracked curtains. Glancing at the still sleeping Kid she smiled, today was going to be long but it was worth it. Kissing his bare shoulder softly, she quickly rose with a groan, muscles she hadn't used in ages protesting the passion they'd shared the night before. Sighing she shrugged a hot bath would cure what ailed her as long as she could get downstairs before Teaspoon saw her.

Pulling her nightgown on and the dressing gown over it she slipped soundlessly from the bedroom and headed downstairs to where she could hear the house staff coming to life. Slipping into the kitchen she smiled at Annie, "Morning. Is anyone around to bring up some hot water?" She asked. "I really wanted a hot bath before we leave."

"I'll send Julie up with some water for you. You staying for breakfast?" Annie inquired noting the happiness in the girl's dark eyes.

"I think so." Lou smothered a yawn. "At least I am. It's way to early to start home anyway."

"If you say so." Annie laughed softly as Lou blushed and quickly departed the room. 

Heading up the steps Lou groaned as she recognized Teaspoon standing watching her. "Morning Teaspoon. The boys awake yet?"

"Nope. Figured I'd let them sleep in a few minutes. The trip to Rock Creek ain't exactly short." Teaspoon noted the happy flush on Lou's face. "So you and Kid worked things out?"

"Yeah." Lou smiled. "We settled a few things that needed to be settled."

"Good. You better put some clothes on before the boys get up, else you'll never hear the end of it." Teaspoon smiled and watched her shrug good naturedly.

Within two hours they were on their way, riding together the way they always had only this time Lou and Kid rode together a lot closer then they had in weeks.