开云体育

I am so sorry for the delay - hope everyone is staying safe!

There was a crispness to the air as Molly walked with Buck toward the Saloon. He'd assured her that everyone made it through unscathed, if not worried for being separated. Deacon Kay stopped just a head of them outside the hotel and turned to watch them approach.

"Ms. O'Rourke, I wanted to take the opportunity, in case I don't see you later, to wish you a Merry Christmas." He turned toward Buck. "You must be the Mr. Willimington I heard about. I don't think I have to tell you how lucky you are."

"That you don't. I'm grateful to you for staying with her."

"It wasn't a hardship," Deacon responded, directing a smile toward Molly. She felt Buck tense underneath her arm.

"Buck, we should get to the others," she said, pulling on his arm toward the saloon. "Merry Christmas, Mr. Kay."

"Did he try anything?" Buck asked.

"He's as much a rogue as you are," Molly retorted.

"Molly..." Buck's tone held a warning edge to it. She stopped and stood in front of him.

"I'm not sure whether to be flattered or insulted but I'm leaning toward insulted. He's not the first man whose advances I've had to discourage," she said, crossing her arms over her chest. "And to be clear, he may have tried, and wasn't subtle in the least, but nothing happened."

"There you are, cherie," Lily's voice came from behind them. "Come on inside and warm up with some tea." Without waiting for a response from Buck, Molly turned and smiled at Lily and walked into the saloon.

Molly refreshed herself after the long night with tea and conversation with the other ladies. They each offered to help Lily with the meal she planned on having after service that night. After taking a short nap, Molly changed into a dark green and brown dress and walked with Mary and Billy toward the church for service. The men of the town had cleared paths in the street and along the sidewalks. Lanterns were lit in windows and those who were out seemed in a festive mood. Mary hurried ahead to keep up with Billy who took off in a run toward several other children. She watched as Buck walked out of the boarding house he lived in. As if sensing he was being watched, he turned toward her and smiled when he saw her. That smile of his always had the effect of making her knees slightly weak, especially when he placed it against her skin...feeling her face heat at the images going through her mind she returned the smile and walked toward him.

"Merry Christmas, Mr. Willimington," she said in a light tone. The light in his eyes changed and Molly realized he knew what she'd been thinking. He pulled her toward him and against the building as he kissed her.

"Miss O'Rourke," he said against her mouth. "I've been waiting all day to do that." He leaned in for another kiss and Molly pulled away, placing a gloved hand over his mouth.

"And you'll have to wait longer for anything else. Service will be starting soon."

"We could have our own service," Buck nodded toward the door of the boarding house. Everyone would be at the church. They'd be alone, a rarity since they'd been back in town away from Mr. Larabee's cabin.

"You are right next door to a perfect heathen," Molly scolded good naturedly.

"I do have a present for you," he reached into his jacket pocket and pulled something from it. "I didn't get a chance to wrap it," he handed it to her. It was a copy of Little Women. Dora had let her read her copy of it years before and it was a favorite. How Buck could know that Molly had no idea. The cover of the book was embossed black leather and had to have cost him a small fortune. The bell rang at the church singling that the service was about to start. Molly reached up and kissed Buck before pressing the book to her heart with one hand, grabbing his hand with the other and hurrying down the road to the church.

Hello,

My name is Marlies and I am a fan of the Magnificent Seven movie. I
honestly didn't know there was a show until today, but I am now tempted to
find and watch it. My favorite character form the movie is Fred. Always
been a fan of James Corburn. Watching the movie gave me my love for The
Great Escape. Since I haven't seen the show, I am afraid I cannot say much
more about it.
Thank you for adding me here and I am excited to read some of your work!

Mars

Welcome to our new member Marlies, she comes from the Planet of the Apes Group Ann and I write in.
Welcome aboard Marlies hope you enjoy the stories. although its been pretty quiet. Tell us who your favorite is. Whats your favorite episode?
Linda

Cold air tickled the hair on Emma's neck.? She buried deeper under the wool blanket and wondered why Ezra had left the window open.? Her mind woke remembering that she was in her shop and not in bed above the saloon.? The fire in the stove burned low.? Nathan who had slept in a chair by the stove was gone.? Emma climbed from bed and added some wood to the stove.? She'd need more since they had used most of it during the night.? Pulling on her boots and shawl she opened the front door to the shop.? A handful of men milled about in the streets trying to clear the walkways in front of buildings.

"Emma," a voice called out her name.? She turned and saw Ezra striding toward her.? He enveloped her in his arms. ?
"Ezra," she admonished him and took his arm pulling him into the shop and closing the door behind them.? She started to tell him how improper his action was but he silenced her with a long deep kiss.
"I am relieved that you are safe.? I was worried you might have strayed out into the storm." He winked at her.
"I learned my lesson in that regard.? No, I stayed warm here."? She chose not to mention that Nathan had spent the night there as well.? If Ezra didn't already know that fact, it wasn't worth bringing up now. He kissed her again.
"Let's get you back to the saloon." They extinguished the fire in the stove and Emma wrapped the wool blanket around her shoulders.? It wasn't far to the saloon but the air was cold and crisp.? Josiah was clearing the snow from in front of the mercantile.? He gave Emma a wave.? Ezra ushered her to the saloon.? Lily was pouring coffee for men taking a break from moving the snow.
"Ah, cherie, so glad that you are well." She gave Emma a hug. "I thought this one would pace a hole in the floor last night he was so concerned." She nodded at Ezra. He mumbled something under his breath and rolled his eyes.? "Are you hungry?"
"Starving."
"Then let's get you some food.? Come back to the kitchen with me."? Ezra kissed the back of her hand before letting Emma go.? Lily laughed as they walked back to the kitchen.? "Between Ezra and Buck I'm surprised either one of them slept a wink.? Both wanted to be out at dawn to get to you and Molly."
"Molly wasn't at The Clarion?"
"No, she was trapped at the school all night."
"She must have been terrified there all alone."
"Oh, she wasn't alone." Lily poured tea and handed the cup to Emma.? "My acquaintance Mr. Kay was at the school with her.? I believe that Buck was most motivated to rescue her from the school this morning." She saw the look on Emma's face.? "Oh, no need to worry, I do not believe that Molly was any danger of being taken advantage of.? Knowing him as I do, he would have made the offer, but he would also never corrupt one unwillingly."
"And Cheyanne?"
"Safe all night with Josiah and Vin at home."? She laid a plate of food in front of Emma. "Speaking of Josiah, he plans to give a service tonight at the church for any who wish to attend and celebrate Christmas.? I offered the saloon for a private supper after.? If you were willing, would you help me prepare for that."

Hi Linda and everyone,


The email version looked fine to me, but it doesn't heard to have the Word option if someone wants to read it that way.


And welcome back to writing/role playing! ?


~Ann

my mail seems to make a mess of my posts when I paste them into email so here is the word attachment that I forgot to include with the original post.? might be easier to read.
Thanks
Linda

Cheyanne woke to the aroma of frying bacon. She could hear voices in the other room talking just above a whisper. A tiny whimper from the wooden box on the floor next to her bed drew her attention. Vins Christmas gift stirred in his blanket. Cheyenne moved her own blankets aside, slide out of bed and quickly scooped the little wolf pup up into her arms he squirmed and wriggled.

“I understand little one”

She set the pup down for a moment while she took the quilt from the end of her bed and wrapped it around her shoulders then picking the pup up again she made her way into the other room.

?“Mornin Annie” Josiah greeted her “Breakfast is about ready”

?Vin stood and politely pulled a chair out from under the table for her to sit in.

?“He is restless I must take him outside.”

?“Here, I’ll take him.” Vin offered as he promptly grabbed his coat from the back of his chair and put it on then gently took the pup from Cheyanne’s arms.

?“I'll clear him a spot so he won’t have to traipse threw all the snow.”

?Cheyenne gave the bounty hunter a thankful smile and followed him to the door. Tightening the quilt around her shoulders against the cold Cheyanne looked out toward the barn. Though the biggest part of the snowstorm seemed to be over, small flakes still fluttered lightly over the ground.

“Barn doors are still shut Annie, I looked out there first thing this morning.” Josiah smiled as he set a plate of bacon on the table. He didn’t’ have to look over at her to know she was worried about her horse. “Come have some breakfast, Vin and I will clear a path to the barn after we eat so you can tend to Blaze.”

Cheyanne flashed her guardian a grateful grin before returning to her room to dress.

**

Belle sipped at the hot coffee in her cup as she peered out the window of her up stairs room down into the street below. The snow had stopped for the most part thank goodness, save for a few small flakes that slowly floated down from the roof tops with the gentle breeze. The streets were quiet although there were a few towns folk that had begun to clear the walkways in front of their shops, something she told herself that she needed to be doing as soon as she finished her coffee.It wasChristmas Eve morning and a feeling of melancholy drifted over her. She missed her father and Brother. Even Though life had not always been easy in recent years a part of her still missed the holiday festivities with her family.Mr. Sanchez had mentioned a church service this evening. From what she had heard from the towns people there had not been a service in the rundown old church in many years, and there were some who had their doubts as to Mr. Sanchez’s preaching ability’s. But Belle was looking forward to it.A Christmas Eve services was just what she needed to help her get over her holiday recession.



By the time Belle ready herself and made her way downstairs and out the front door to take on the daunting task of shoveling the walks in front of her store she was pleasantly surprised when she opened the door to find some kind soul had already done the job for her. Belle looked up and down the walk hoping to see who had been so thoughtful when she spied Mr. Sanchez and some of the other men a few doors down shoveling their way towards the Clarion.

“Good Morning. I take it I have you men to thank for clearing the walkway for me?”

Josiah stopped, turned, politely removed his hat and leaned on his shovel.

“Good Morning Miss Chandler, why it was your beautiful smile that just melted that snow plum away ma’m.” Josiah grinned

Belle blushed. “Why Thank You Mr. Sanchez, but I’m more inclined to believe it was your hard work and the rest of you. Thank You, your kindness is very much appreciated.”

“Just doin our part ma’m” Vin tipped his hat and went back to shoveling.

“Are you still planning on holding church services this evening Mr. Sanchez?”

“That I am Ma’m will you be attending?”

“I’m looking forward to it.” Belle smiled. “I’ll see you then”

With that Bell retreated back into the store.

Josiah let out a smitten sigh holding his hat over his heart.

Vin and JD shared an amused glance. They had seen Josiah smitten like this before. Once with Emma Dubonnet and again with Ezra’s mother, neither relationship ended favorably. Of course his lust for Maude seemed to be just a crush, Emma Dubonnet however had broken his heart.They hoped this time he would fare better.

**

Cheyanne watched as her little pup frolicked in the hay.Blaze paid the young wolf no mind as Cheyanne continued to smooth the brush through his mane. The black and white paint had come through the storm unscathed thanks to the barn doors holding shut. Cheyanne had spent much of the day caring for him and letting the little pup play in the barn. But it was going on late afternoon and it was time she went in, she wanted to help Josiah ready the church for services tonight.

Setting the brush down Cheyanne shut the stall door and latched it. She picked up her wolf pup and brushed the hay off of him before she went inside.

The church was warm and a fire crackled in the fireplace. Josiah stood at the pulpit practicing his sermon. Cheyanne stealthily closed the door behind her as she entered then carefully, so as not to disturb him, made her way to one of the pews and sat down her little wolf curled up at her feet.

It had been a very long time since she had heard Josiah preach, she was just a child the last time she’d watched him practice a sermon, it was not long after she and her father had met Josiah that she first heard him practicing in the woods…Cheyanne’s memory drifted back to a time when she was just a little girl. /A young Josiah stood under a large tree bible in hand shouting out as if he were driving out evil spirits from the trees./

/He stopped when he noticed her peering at him from behind one of the pine trees./

/“Don’t be afraid. Come here little Annie, I’m not angry”/

/“You shout to much.” She scolded coming out from behind her hiding spot./

/Josiah let out a big chuckle. “I suppose I do, that’s so all those sinners will hear my words and head the almighty word of God.”/

/The little girl looked at him quizzically and still speaking in her father’s French language innocently asked. “what is a sinner?”/

/Josiah crouched down in front of the little girl /

/“Well that little Annie is some one who goes against God’s words.”/

/“I do not know your God, am I a sinner?”/

/Josiah sat on the ground “Come her Annie” /

/The little girl made her way over to her fathers friend and he set her on his lap./

/“Of corse you are not a sinner Annie, just because you don’t know God as I do does not mean you are a sinner, you know him as the creator, you worship him in your own way. The way Blue Leaf and your father have taught you. God is all things, he is the creator, he is Jehovah, he is Yahweh, he is everywhere and all things. He is love. Sinners are bad men, men who steal from others, men who kill. Those are real sinners.”/

/Like the men who killed John Henry and stole his furs Are they sinners?”/

/“Yes darlin, those men are sinners, very bad sinners. Now here, you are much to young to worry about bad men and sinners, look over there.”/

/The little girl turned to see her pet baby racoon sitting next to an old stump staring at them./

/“I think troublemaker over there wants you to come and play”/

/“His name is not Troublemaker; it is only Papa that calls him that. His name is Ayashe it means little friend.”/

/Josiah chuckled. “well go on then and play with Ayashe, but don’t stray to far, your father will be looking for you.”/

//

Josiah’s anxious voice pulled Cheyanne from her memories.

“Well what do you think Annie?”

“Very good”

Josiah paced

“I’m not so sure, maybe I should call it off, I haven’t done any preachin since, well, since you were a little girl. I got no business trying to be a preacher, hell I only believe about half a what I preach anyways.”

Cheyanne stood and went of over to her guardian putting a soft hand on his arm.

“There are many ways to worship the creator, you and my father have taught me this. You will find your own way. It will be a good thing. I believe in you.”

Josiah reached over and smoothed her hair. “Thank You Annie, listen I know you don’t much like being around many people, but I was hopin maybe you would come tonight sort a be my back up and reassurance?”

Cheyanne smiled “I will come, for you” She paused “Just, do not shout to much, the creator can hear you.”

Josiah laughed and pulled her into a loving embrace “I promise, no shouting.”

"So Ms. Molly O'Rouke. Are you at Four Corners by way of Ireland?" Mr. Kay asked from the other side of the room. He'd made himself comfortable against the wall by the stove. His legs were crossed and Molly was only slightly surprised to note he still had his shoes on.

"No. Baltimore," she answered.

"It's warmer over on this side of the room," he said. Molly stood from where she'd been sitting at her desk for the past quarter hour and paced to the window. The view hadn't changed and hopefully it was just in her imagination that the show was coming down even heavier.


"And did you teach in Baltimore?" Mr. Kay asked. "Perhaps on the art of conversation?"

"You're mocking me," Molly said from her spot at the window.

"I'm trying to distract you from our current situation. Though there are are much more interesting ways we could be distracting to each other."

"I am not interested in revisiting that subject with you, Mr. Kay," Molly said.


"So who is he?" Mr. Kay asked.


"He?" Molly repeated.


"The man that is lucky enough to have claimed you?" Molly wanted to scold that she'd not be 'claimed' by anyone as so much a piece of property but had not the energy to engage Mr. Kay.


"His name is Buck Wilmington. He is employed on behalf of His Honor, Judge Orin Travis as one of seven to protect Four Corners."


"So noted," Mr. Kay responded.


"One can only hope," Molly muttered, pacing back to her desk.


"So, Baltimore. Not many Irish there. Most go to New York or Chicago."

"I was a governess," Molly replied.


"Why not stay?" he asked. "You can't tell me being a teacher in the middle of nowhere had appeal?"

"What about you, Mr. Kay? What brings you to Four Corners?" Molly asked.

"I had a business proposition for Lily," he responded. "And you're dodging my question."


Molly paced back to the desk, pulling her coat tight around her. The temperature in the school was dropping. She glanced over to the basket by the stove to see there were only a few pieces of wood left in it.


Mr. Kay glanced over at the basket. Shifting his weight he stood, rolling down his sleeves and walked over to the basket, picking up a piece of the wood and putting it in the stove, stoking the fire a bit higher. Molly walked into the library and retrieved his jacket and overcoat and firmly closed the door behind her hoping to keep as much of the warmth in the school as possible.

The rest of the night passed restlessly for Molly. Mr. Kay had convinced her to sit next to him nearest the stove. She'd dozed, waking up to see that his overcoat was covering her legs. A faint light was coming in through the windows. But it wasn't the light that had woken her, it was something else. A noise, a sound. Molly sat up and brushed the overcoat off her legs. There it was again.

'Oh please, please don't let that be my imagination,' Molly thought, gathering her skirts up enough so she could kneel and then stand.

"Is it too much to hope that you've now changed your mind?" Mr. Kay's voice thick with sleep came next to her. Forget her ankles, he'd seen the better part of her legs as she'd scrambled to stand.

"Oh do hush, Mr. Kay," Molly said. "Listen." There it was again. Her name being shouted by Buck. Molly opened the door letting in snow that had drifted against it and Buck. Without a word he pulled her into his arms and Molly took in a breath. Even in winter he smelled like sweet grass. Lifting her head up she met his lips with her own. The clearing of a throat broke them apart.


"Later," Buck murmured to her. For the first time in hours, warmth filled Molly's body.

?While not as heavy as earlier the storm continued to drop flakes on their town. Emma was thankful that she’d asked JD to bring in some wood for her stove two days earlier. There’d be enough to keep her and Nathan warmth through the night and into tomorrow if needed. Food was another story. She’d had a few things tucked away; a carrot, an onion, and a pair of potatoes. It wasn’t much but fried up, it kept them both from starving for the night.

“Awful good meal Miss Emma.” Nathan said with a satisfied smile.

“I probably should have kept back one of the potatoes for the morning.”

“I’d wager by morning we’ll be able to make our way.” He took a sip of tea. “And I don’t imagine Ezra would stand not knowing you’re safe longer than that. Half surprised he didn’t try coming to get you in the storm.”

“He wouldn’t be that careless.”

“Maybe not. But when those fellas took ya, I had to make sure and stitch him up good because nothing was going to stop him from riding out to find you.”

“Was it really that bad?” When Emma has asked, Ezra had played it off, made it sound like the bullet barely grazed him.

“Wasn’t as bad as it coulda been. Vin was worse off. But neither man should have been out on horseback.”



Lily stood at the window in her room watching the snow fall. It had slowed considerably in the last few hours. A strange silence had fallen over the small town. She could almost envision families cuddled around stoves and fireplaces taking refuge from the weather.

“Anything the matter?” Ezra’s voice came from her doorway. Lily turned and smiled.

“No, just admiring the beauty of it.” Ezra snorted in derision. “Oh now, I know you don’t care for it because you’re worried about Emma. I dare say that if she were here and you could lock yourselves away in your room, you would have no issue with Mother Earth.” She raised an eyebrow at him.

“A fair evaluation of the situation.” Emma’s shop sat along the same side of street as the saloon which meant he couldn’t even try to see if a light burned inside.

“If she didn’t stay in her shop, then she found refuge somewhere else. Perhaps with Mary or at the mercantile.” She crossed the room and laid a hand on his arm. “She is safe and will be back with you again.”

Hello ladies.

I'm afraid that my muse has take a vacation with out my permission. I haven't been able to write a thing for any of my fandoms or my on going stories in my hero zone group.? I am just drawing a blank on everything.??????????????????????????????????????????? so until I can coax my muse back from her unscheduled vacation. I am going on hiatus for a while. Given the fact that we haven't had a post since January and it's the end of March I'm thinking this group will be on hiatus as well.

Have a great summer ya'll

Linda

HI,

Just wondering if anyone is still around and if you are all surviving the cold. I know it's been a real deep freeze in some places. Down to 12 degrees here and I know other places have been in the minuses.? Is anyone still interested in writing? I've been doing my writing in my Combination group. I've been working on my V RPG story that starts from the arrival of the visitors. Ill be doing more with others story's also.

Any way just saying hello hope everyone is doing well.

Take Care

~L

"Shall we deal you in?" Ezra asked as Lily set the bottle of whiskey on the table.? Chris nodded in thanks.? She laughed and shook her head.? The saloon was empty but for their table.? Snow and wind blew outside.? Lily wrapped a shawl around her shoulders. ?

"I've never seen weather like this."? This was the first time Lily had seen snow.? From what the mean had said, it was rare even in this part of the country. The door burst open, snow and wind chilling the room.? Buck pushed the door shut behind him, brushing snow off his shoulders. ?
"Can't see a damn thing out there.? I was going to go over to make sure that Mary and Molly are settled and can't see across the street."? Anyone who had spent any time on the prairies knew stories of folks losing their way in the few feet between their house and the barn and dying out in the snow.

"She ain't with Ms. Travis."? JD spoke up from where he was camped by the stove.? "She's at the school."
"At the school?" Buck hit JD with his hat.? "Why didn't you bring her over here?"

"She asked me to help take the kids home. But she wasn't alone." JD nodded toward Lily.? "Lily's friend was there."
"Deacon? Deacon is with her?" Lily's brow furrowed.

"Yep, so at least she ain't alone."




Emma had lost track of the time.? She'd only meant to go to the shop to collect some handwork and pieces that she could work on in the saloon.? The wind and snow had come on so quickly. She could make the faintest outlines of the buildings across the street. Taking a peek out the back had been even worse.? It was a landscape of blowing snow, white swirls blocking out anything. Fear gripped her chest as she remembered wandering the storm months and months ago.? She had could wait out this storm in the shop.? It couldn't last more than a few hours, she assumed.? It wasn't the first time she'd seen snow.? She'd come from Chicago, snow was part of every winter.? But this was different. The front door rattled and swung open.? Cold air filled the room before the door was shut again.
"Miss Emma, what are you doing in here?? You ought to be over at the saloon." Nathan rubbed his hands together.

"I could say the same to you." She took his arm.? "Come stand by the stove. What are you doing out?"
"Was headed that way when I saw you in here.? I dare say Ezra's going to be beside himself in worry."

"I was going to head there, but then," she stared out the window. "I thought I'd just wait it out."
"Probably best." Nathan held his hands over the heat of the stove. "Person could get lost out there."

"You must stay too."
"Uh, I don't know, ma'am. Not sure what folks would say about that."

"I care little about what they might say. I could not live with myself if something happened to you. Were it not for you, I'd probably be dead."



"Are we to assume by that look that you do not feel that our young schoolteacher is safe in the company of Mr. Kay?" Ezra asked as he shuffled cards. Ezra had a sense of the man in the time he'd spent in Four Corners.? There was something about him that he didn't quite trust, though Lily certainly did.

"What? Oh no, it's not that... I just...," she stalled her words as she stared out at the raging storm.
"Just what?" Chris hadn't trusted Deacon Kay from the moment he stepped off the stagecoach.? He hadn't done anything while he'd been in town, but the feeling he gave Chris made him distrustful.? He was a little too polished; too quick with a smile. Chris had known too many men like that, men that in the end would sell you out to save themselves.? Ezra had been that type of man when they first met.? He didn't hold the same opinion of the gambler anymore. Ezra had proved himself many times.

"Oh it's nothing," Lily tried to smile, "Deacon wouldn't overstep any boundaries, but he can be a bit of a scoundrel."
"What's that mean?" Buck huffed up his chest.? He was already burning to race into the storm to fetch Molly.

"Mr. Wilmington, I would think if anyone would know the definition of the scoundrel, it'd be you." Ezra smiled and stood from the table.? "Excuse me a moment, won't you."



"How long do you think the snow will fall?" Emma poured a cup of tea for Nathan and took the seat across from him.? She'd set up the two chairs she had and a small table near the fire.? Nathan cut up an apple and placed half on the saucer of her cup.

"Don't rightly know.? Never seen a storm like this.? Never saw snow like this before."
"At least neither one of us has to be alone in this."



"Where is Emma?" Ezra raced down the stairs two at a time. ?
"She's not upstairs?" Lily asked. "When she heard about the storm, she was going to fetch some handwork from the shop, something to keep herself busy. I thought she'd returned before and was just upstairs."

"She's not stupid. She wouldn't try to go out in this." Buck tried to reassure him even as he contemplated doing the exact thing himself. Lily's description of her friend did nothing to dissuade Buck's worry about Molly.
"Gentlemen, may I suggest we all sit down. I have some soup and bread.? We can eat and wait out the storm." Lily smiled at them all.? It was going to be a long night.

Josiah shielded his eyes from the biting wind and blowing snow. “Cheyanne!” he shouted as loud as he could so that his voice would carry over the encompassing wind.

Cheyanne threw another arm full of hay into Blazes stall. She’d already seen to Josiah’s horse and was doing her best to keep her steed calm. Storms made the black and white paint nervous and this one in particular seemed to have him more anxious than usual, especially the wind, he was even refusing the sugar cube Cheyanne offered him.

“Annie!” Josiah called to her as he was half blown in through the barn doors he held tight to the inside of the door to regain his footing.“Com’on girl, you need to get inside”

“No.” She insisted “Blaze is very afraid. I must stay with him.”

Josiah let the doors swing open and strode purposely over to her. Today he was not taking no for an answer and took hold of her arm.“He’ll be fine, now you get your tail into that house before I throw you over my shoulder and carry you there you hear.”

Cheyanne had not heard that fearful fatherly tone from her guardian in a very long time, she knew what that tone meant, something bad was coming. The authoritative sound in his voice assured her that Josiah meant business and he meant it now.Telling the horse in her native Cheyenne language that he would be alright she gave Blaze one last gentle pat and reluctantly obeyed.

“Yes Josiah”

Josiah closed and latched the barn doors from the outside to keep them from blowing open. Cheyanne shielded her face against Josiah holding tightly to him as they made their way through the blinding snow back to the house.

Once inside Josiah pulled off his coat and hung it on one of the hooks next to the door, then put another log on the fire thankful he’d brought in extra wood earlier. Cheyanne hung her shawl next to Josiah’s coat then moved to the window over the sink and stood there looking out at the barn doors. Even though they were latched the wind was so strong that they still rattled.

Josiah came up behind her wrapping his comforting arms around her. “Don’t worry so much, He’s safe and warm in that barn, he’s got plenty of hay and water. He’ll calm down. “

“I have never seen him like this Josiah.”

A commotion out in the church interrupted anymore comforting words Josiah could offer. Both he and Cheyanne rushed to see what the disturbance was.

Vin shook the snow off and grinned when Josiah and Cheyanne came through the door from Cheyanne’s residence. The surprised look on their faces nearly made him chuckle.

“Well, since Christmas is only a few days away and you mentioned you were thinkin’ about gettin’ a tree for the church, just thought I’d do my part and donate one, for the church you know.”His voice said the church but his eyes were on Cheyanne.

“Well now brother Vin that is right kind of you.” Josiah walked up to his friend giving him a friendly pat on the shoulder and a wink that Vin acknowledged with a small nod of his own. Truth be told, the two of them had planned this all along, getting a tree, not so much for the church as for Cheyanne. It had been several years since they had had a real Christmas. Now that they had set down roots, and given everything Cheyanne had been through this year. Josiah wanted to make this holiday special for her.

“I Think right up there on the pulpit would be a good place to set this handsome tree. What do you think Annie? We could make some fine ornaments and string some corn, it’d give us something to do while we wait for the storm to pass. Vin did you get those supply’s I asked for while you were in Eagle Bend.”

Vin Helped Josiah to set the tree on the pulpit in the corner opposite Cheyanne’s door then nodded.

“Yup sure did they’re over there in the corner.”He tilted his head toward the back corner of the church.

A noise from behind the back pew drew Cheyanne’s attention from the tree.

“Oh ya, I almost forgot, there’s one more thing” Vin quickly finished helping Josiah secure the tree in place then hurried over and retrieved a box from behind the pew. He handed it to Cheyanne who eyed him curiously.

“Merry Christmas Cheyanne. I know it ain’t quite Christmas yet, but I don’t think this present can wait much longer, best open it now.”

Something inside the box moved and a small whimper echoed inside.

Cheyanne carefully untied the string while Vin held the box steady.

A little black nose poked up out between the flaps of the package, then two little ears and a head as the fluffy little 9-10-week-old wolf pup struggled to free himself from the confines of the box, a big red ribbon was around his neck.

Cheyanne’s heart melted as she reached for the little animal, she cooed and spoke softly to it in her French/Cheyenne language as she lifted him from his confinement and snuggled the little pup close to her.

“Little feller lost his mama.” Vin told her as he set the box aside. “I found him out in the woods near where I found the tree poor little guy was half froze. Knowin how you are with critters ‘n’ all I thought maybe you’d be a good substitute mama for him.”

Cheyanne looked up at him and for the first time in months genuinely smiled.“A’ho”

Seeing the sparkle in Cheyanne’s eyes again was all the thanks Vin needed. He tipped the brim of his hat to her “A’ho”

Josiah grinned and nodded approvingly. He had not seen the light shine so brightly in his ward’s eyes in a very long time.

“well what are you going to call him Annie?”

“I do not know” she giggled as the pup stood in her arms and licked at her nose.“he will earn his name soon enough.”

Taking his gaze from Cheyanne Vin turned toward the door. “I Best get the buckboard back and get the horses to the livery, snow’s comin down pretty hard and that winds bound to start it driften.”

“Vin” Cheyanne called to him.

Hearing his name Vin turned to face her.

“When you have finished, I have food inside, you are welcome to eat with us.”

Vin let a smile escape and politely removed his hat. “I’ld like that.”

Josiah had been watching the two of them with a twinkle in his eye. His Annie was slowly starting to get her life back. He could see the deference in the way she smiled at Vin. A few months ago she wouldn’t so much as come out of the house when anyone was around, and when she did it wasn’t for long and she would quickly retreat back into thesafety of her home. Especially when it came to Vin. Now she was inviting him to dinner. It warmed his heart to see her coming out of the darkness that had overshadowed her for so long.

“Vin, why don’t you let me take the horses and buck board back to the livery.” Josiah offered “I should go check on Miss Chandler make sure she’s got everything she needs to hunker down in this storm since she’s all alone you know. You stay here and have some of Annie’s stew and get warmed up.”

Vin did his best to hide a knowing grin, it was no secret that Josiah had been smitten with the new store keeper since her arrival.

Cheyanne followed Josiah into her living area while he retrieved his coat.

“Josiah?” Her concern for him had replaced the joy that masked her delicate features only moments ago.

“I’ll be alright, and so will you. I won’t be long” he assured her laying a comforting hand on her cheek.“Vin, you make sure she don’t try to go out to that barn.”Josiah warned before shutting the church doors behind him.

*

It took Josiah longer that he had expected to get the horses and buckboard back to the livery. The snow was indeed beginning to drift by the time he made it to the Mercantile. The wind gusts were enough to knock even the strongest man to the ground. The doors to the store were locked, and the sign in the window read Closed.

Josiah pounded on the door for what seemed like an eternity until Belle finally answered.

“Mr. Sanchez, what are you doing out on a day like this? Come in. Is there something important you are in need of that would have you braving this weather?”

“No M’am” Josiah answered humbly removing his hat. “I Just thought I would check on you. and see if there was anything you needed to weather out this storm. Do you have enough wood for the fire?”

Belle smiled sincerely appreciative of Josiah’s gesture. “That’s very kind of you and Yes I have plenty, Young JD was good enough yesterday to make sure I was overly stocked. I’m fine, thank you for being concerned.”

“We’d be glad to have you at the church it might be safer? Cheyanne’s a mighty good cook and suppers on the stove.”

Belle was grateful for the invitation but refused. She had every intention of spending this unexpected time to herself writing letters to her he father and brother and catching up on some reading. “Thank you very much for your kindness Mr. Sanchez but..”

“Please M’am , Josiah ” he interrupted.

“Josiah” Belle blushed “but I’ve had my supper and as you can see I have all that I need here in the store. I plan on settling in with a good book and turning in early.”

“If you insist m’am, I won’t keep you enjoy your evening.” Putting his hat back in its place he politely tipped the brim to her and turned to leave suddenly snapping his fingers as if he had forgotten something he quickly spun back around. “I’ll be conducting a small service on Christmas eve at the church, if you’d like to join us, around 7:00.”

“I will remember that, Thank You for the invitation Mr., I mean, Josiah. It’s been a long while since I’ve attended a Christmas service. I look forward to it.”

“Until then” Josiah smiled graciously bowing slightly with a tug on his hat brim before he started back toward the church.

*

Josiah, Vin and Cheyanne finished a supper of hot stew and warm fresh bread.Josiah popped corn in a pot over the fire as the snow storm raged outside.Cheyanne strung the popped corn into a garland for the tree which proved to be a bit of a task trying to keep Josiah and Vin from eating her decoration.The three of them spent the rest of the evening adorning the Christmas tree with the popcorn strings and wooden ornaments that Josiah had carved for just this occasion along with several pine cones Vin had picked up along the way.

As Josiah set the wooden star on the top of the tree then began lighting the candles that sat in small candle holders secured to several of the branches Cheyanne took a step back and was suddenly quiet, a tear escaped from the corner of her eye as a memory from the past abruptly popped into her mind. A memory she had long forgotten.

Josiah quickly picked up on the sadness that fell over the young woman who only moments ago seemed so happy.

“Annie? What is it?”

“Papa” she answered softly as she wiped away a tear. “I remember When I was little, he did this with the tree, it was Christmas eve. He gave me a present he had sold many beaver pelts to buy.It was a store-bought doll. She was like me, dressed in buckskins with braided hair.When I was older Blue Leaf told me he had taken the doll to her and asked her to make her look more Indian.”saddened eyes looked up at him for solace. “I miss them”

Josiah put a comforting arm around her shoulder and did his best to ease her melancholy.

“They loved you very much, let their memory bring you comfort, not sadness. I know for a fact they would both be very proud you and how far you have come. I know I am.”

Cheyanne offered him a small appreciative smile.

The howl of the wind and a sudden gust blowing the church doors open sent Vin and Josiah running to close them and startled the little wolf who’d been laying in the corner on a blanket sleeping. Cheyanne hurried over and gathered him in her arms blanket and all.

The drifted snow made it hard for the men to get the doors shut but perseverance paid off and the church doors finally closed. Josiah had to bolt them from the inside. Vin helped to set a couple of benches in front of it to make sure they didn’t blow open during the night.

“I’ve got an extra bedroll, Vin you best sleep here tonight.”

“Appreciate it Josiah.”

“Blaze!”Her horses name fearfully erupted from Cheyanne’s lips. She turned on her heels and ran back into her home heading straight for the back door, Vin and Josiah were on her heels. Josiah catching her before she could open her door.

“Barn doors are still closed” Vin announced relieved. It was hard to see through the nearly snow-covered window. But he could definitely make out the barn doors. Cheyanne hastily pushed her way in front of him. Vin was right, the doors were still closed. Cheyanne breathed a sigh of relief, still she would feel better if she were there to help calm Blaze’s anxiety.She prayed he would stay safe.

Nice post ! Colleen, loved it...Poor Molly hope she stays safe. Bucks going to have a canary I can just see it now LOL

~Linda

If the weather forecast of the men who gathered outside of the livery was to be believed, Four Corners was in for a big snowstorm. Apparently these men had been accurate enough in the past that Mary had suggested to Molly school should be canceled for the day. The problem was there were enough children who lived outside of town that getting word would be difficult. Molly decided to hold classes for the morning and if the snow prediction held, release the students at the dinner break.


She had just set the students up with a series of arithmetic problems when the door opened bringing with it a blast of cold air and a bundled up JD Dunn. The distraction was enough for several of the students to turn around.

"Back to work please," Molly said as she walked down the aisle to where JD stood.

"Sorry to interrupt," he said.

"Not at all. Come with me, you're half froze," Molly said, leading him over to the stove at the back corner of the room. She poured him a cup of coffee and he wrapped his hands around the mug gratefully.

"Buck sent me, he and the others think you should close the school now. This looks to be a bad one," he took a sip of the coffee as Molly let her gaze out one of the windows. The clouds did seem to be building and getting heavier. Before she could open her mouth to answer him, the door opened again, this time admitting the father of three of the students.

"Sorry to interrupt, Miss," he said, taking off his hat. "But I've come to take the kids home. Looks to be a bad one."

"Yes, of course," Molly said. "Class," she addressed the students. "Put everything away and gather your things. We're dismissed for the day."

Excited chatter greeted the announcement as the children hurried to put books and slates away in their desks and rushed to the side wall to pull on coats. Two other fathers arrived to gather up their children and arrangements were made that those who lived outside of town all had an adult seeing them home. Billy Travis and a girl named Mae were the last students from town to leave. Molly was helping Mae button her coat; in her haste the little girl had paired the wrong button with the wrong buttonholes leaving the coat gaping. Molly placed the little girls hat on her head.

"Mr. Dunn will walk you and Billy home. Hold his hand and mind what he says," Molly said. Mae nodded her promise.

"Will you come see my snowman when I've built it?" she asked.

"Of course," Molly responded. "Perhaps we'll have enough snow to build him a family." She stood and led the two children to JD.

"We can wait for you," JD said.

"I'll be fine. I'm going to finish some things here and then I'll head home." JD seemed to hesitate before leaving with Bill and Mae. Molly shut the door behind them.

"You should be a mother," a man's deep voice came from behind her. Molly spun around, her hand clutching for the doorknob, ready to pull the door open and run. The man who stood at the other end of the room was dressed in a black pin-stripe suit of a cut and fit that Molly hadn't seen since she was back East. He wore a buttoned up vest over a starched, bright white shirt, the sleeves of which were rolled up over his forearms. The gold chain of a pocket watch gleamed at his waist. His beard was neatly trimmed and it and his hair were salted with grey. Molly had seen him a couple of times with Lily and had asked her about him. All Lily would tell her was that she'd known him for a long time and his name was Deacon Kay. Any other questions had Lily changing the subject.

"I'm sorry," he said, holding out his hands in front of him as he took a couple of steps forward. "I didn't mean to startle you. I hope you don't mind my using the library while you have school?"


Molly let herself relax slightly. Despite any history that Lily may have with him, she also knew if he was dangerous the men in the town would have run him off by now.

"Of course not," Molly responded. The lending library had been Mary's idea and the men were able to easily add space to the new school building for it.

"I'm being rude, I should introduce myself," he walked up to her and held out his hand. "Deacon Kay."

"Yes, Lily told me your name," Molly responded taking his hand. "Molly O'Rourke, very nice to meet you," she said.

"So you've been warned off then?" he responded, holding on to her hand for a few seconds longer than would be considered proper.

"I'm sure I don't know what you mean," Molly responded. "If you'll excuse me, I'd like to use this time to get caught up on some things."

"Of course," he said, giving her a sort of half bow and stepping to the side. Molly nodded her thanks and walked to her desk feeling his eyes on her the whole way. It wasn't until she sat at her desk that he walked back into the library. The soft click of the connecting door closing had Molly letting out a breath she didn't realize she'd been holding. Deacon Kay had the kind of air about him that said he knew he was attractive and had means and would use either or both to get what he wanted - often before the giver knew what they doing.? Even though their interaction was nothing more than an introduction, Molly had the sense she had something he wanted.


The room had grown cool and the light was going dim, which is what drew Molly's attention from her work. She checked her watch. It was not quite three o'clock, but it appeared much later outside. Molly stood and walked over to one of the side windows and looked out. Snow was falling so fast and heavy she couldn't see anything. A strange sort of panic filled her as she went to the door and opened it. She should have view of the town but instead could see nothing. She had to leave, now, before it got full dark. Hurrying back down the aisle she walked to the door connecting the library. She hadn't heard the outside door since Mr. Kay had gone back into the library but she'd also been fully focused on her work. She gave a cursory knock

"Mr. Kay?" she called out, opening the door. "Mr. Kay are you still here?" The sound of a chair being scraped back greeted her and he appeared. "I'm terribly sorry but the storm has come and I must lock up and leave." She said as she walked to the coat rack and pulled on her coat. He walked up to the door and opened it then closed it.

"You're not going out in that and neither am I," he said, walking over toward the stove in the corner and building up the fire.

"We can not possibly stay here," Molly said, pulling on her gloves and gathering her things. "Please stop that, we must go." He stood from the stove and dusted his hands together.

"I'm afraid for the time being we are going to have to stay here. The snow is too heavy and it's only going to get worse. People have died less than three feet from their own front doors in weather half as bad as this. We're staying here."


Molly watched warily as he took two measured steps and stopped in front of the door.

"Fine," Molly said, frustration filling her tone. "If you want to stay here you're more than welcome but I am leaving." She spun on her heal and walked toward the connecting door between the school room and the library.

"Ms. O'Rourke. Molly," Mr. Kay's voice reached Molly's ear and turned around, nearly colliding with him. He placed his hands on her upper arms to steady her. "I'm afraid I can't let you leave. Not in this weather."

Molly's entire being froze. She'd been held at the mercy of a man once and swore she never would be again. Her expression must have shown her fear because he let go of her and took a step back.

"I promise you, whatever you might be thinking, my motives are pure."

"I have a feeling, Mr. Kay, you've never had a pure motive in your life," Molly retorted, pulling off her gloves.

"You're unmarried," he said, with a nod toward her left hand that just appeared out of her glove. Molly unbuttoned her coat but left it on in deference to the still cool room. "Is it your reputation you're concerned with? I don't know what Lily's told you but I'm hardly a scoundrel. Unless you'd like me to be." Where Buck's voice might have gone lighter in tone making such a flirtatious statement, Mr. Kay's went lower, darker. This man could be dangerous to a woman who didn't know better. Molly was thankful she knew better.

"Understand something, Mr. Kay, right here and now. I have faced worse than you and I'm still here. If you so much as lay a finger on me uninvited, I will open that door and scream bloody murder. I've no doubt that at least seven men in this town will come running, storm or no and it will not end well for you. Do you understand me?" Molly understood what she was saying was bluster, for one thing she'd have to get past him to get to the door and for another she doubted with the raging storm if they could hear anything.

"Understood, but just one question, is there any chance of you inviting me to lay a finger on you?" Molly's temper was about to go up when she realized the darkness was gone in his tone and this time he was truly teasing.

"None whatsoever, Mr. Kay," she responded.

"Pity, just think of the story we could tell our children one day of how we met." Molly didn't try to stop herself from rolling her eyes as she walked over to the lamp on the edge of the desk and lit it. It was going to be a long night.

Okay excuse any typos since I primarily wrote this on my phone (because the bus is about the only time I have currently to write). And sorry it took so long. I promise to do better!




Emma knelt on the floor while she marked the hem for Lily’s new dress. It was dark emerald green silk with black lace. There had been two adjustments to the bodice before Lily was happy. Emma found the amount of décolletage showing to be a bit scandalous but LIly never concerned herself with such things. Emma wished she could feel the same. For the first time Emma noticed a trunk that sat behind the dressing screen.

“Are you planning a trip?” Emma nodded to the trunk.

“No, it’s not mine. Do you remember the man you said inquired after me that day? Handsome, salt and pepper hair and beard?”

“Oh yes,” Emma nodded. It had been when Judge Travis arrived for Cheyenne’s trial. In the commotion after that and the ensuing time, Emma had forgotten about the gentleman but realized she didn’t remember having seen him since.

“He asked me to keep it for him while he took care of some business in the area. He’ll be back.” There was disapproval in her voice.

“Lily,” Emma had been practicing this talk in her head for days, “may I talk to you about a matter.”

“Of course, my dear.”

“You know that I care deeply for Ezra.”

“And I believe we both know he feels likewise about you.” Lily stepped down from the chair and Emma began to help her out of the dress.

“Now that he and I no longer have secrets between us, I wish to,” Emma’s cheeks burned. The words did not want to come.

“You two haven’t?” LIly waved her hand in the air. Emma shook her head. Dear god, the state he must be in most nights, Lily thought to herself.

“My mother never really told me anything about the act, other than it was something that a wife must endure.” LIly snorted. “And I can’t say my experience with my husband disabused me of that notion.” Emma twisted her fingers. “When I was recovering from the tornado and stayed in the room next to you. I.... I heard... sounds that...”

“That lead you to believe that it can be pleasing?” LIly finished the sentence for her. A small smile rugged at the corners of her mouth. “Quite pleasing in fact. Sit down my dear, let’s have a talk.”




The morning sun woke Ezra. He’d forgotten to close the curtains fully the night before. He’d forgotten more things than the curtains the night before, like properly hanging his jacket which lay crumpled on the floor. But he’d lost the ability to think when he’d arrived to the room the evening before and found Emma clad only in her dressing gown. If he needed reminding of the pleasures they’d taken in each other’s bodies, the feel of her warm flesh against his did it. If sensing him awake, Emma snuggled against him interlacing her fingers with his.

“Good morning my dear,” he laid a kiss on her shoulder.

“Good morning,” Emma answered sleepily. “May we lay in bed all day?”

“I do believe people would talk.” He teased.

“I think they already do. And so what if they do.”

“I do believe that Lily has been a terrible influence on you.” He kissed the side of her neck. “I’m going to fetch us some coffee. And the. We can discuss this plan of yours to stay in bed all day.”

I was able to get this email -

Hi,


got it. :)


~Ann

Hi everyone.

So I took my laptop in to have it cleaned up from viruses and such and just a check up. The Guy at PMT Tech force who usually works on my computer and who I absolutely prefer was busy last week and unable to take care of it. So he let the other guy do the work on my computer. it should have been just an easy clean up no problem.? Well I get it back and my email is GONE, all my folders, addresses everything. So I take it back in for Ed ( the guy I prefer) to fix it and he spent over an hour trying to fix what the other idiot screwed up , long story short, My email was so screwed I lost Everything! and he had to load another email program. so I'm starting over with folders and addresses. I lost bill receipts, work stubs ,? all my RPG stuff. which thank goodness I can just go to my groups and pretty much find everything from there.

I'm sending this out to make sure it number one the email program works the way I need it to and to make sure I have addresses right. Thank goodness most of my email addresses were on the other computer so I could copy them. If you would please let me know you got this email from both the RPG groups and your personal email I would appriciate it.

I couldn't remember who's turn it was and as you are both having a great
vacation. I just through this in. It's not very long. But it tally's up the
recent story line. Again it is also sent as an attachment for better
paragraphing.

? ? ? ?
Linda

My Angel Wings are in the shop for repair good thing my broom is in working
condition..

Cheyanne ran the curry brush through Blazes long white mane. It had been a
long few weeks and she was glad they were over. She and Molly had been
forgiven for any wrong doing in Hawks escape and they were both relieved and
Thankful for the judge’s mercy. Molly especially, since she had been allowed
to keep her job as teacher. Her part in the escape was kept as quiet as
possible although it was no secret she had helped Cheyanne in some way.
Buck and some of the other men had made an official start on the new school
house that was being built not far from the Church. Josiah had even left his
continuing work on the church to help build the school. The women in town
had been bringing the men their lunch so that work could be continued
without interruption until evening. They hoped to have the building
finished before winter set in, and there was talk of a celebration once the
work was complete.
Hawks murder trial had been held here in Four Corners to assure he was
given a fair and unbiased one. Elly Conner had finally admitted on the stand
that what Hawk had said was the truth. He had not intended to kill Chase
Hancock. The man had attacked her when he found out that She and Hawk were
in love. Hawk had been protecting her when Chase pulled the knife and tried
to kill him. Hawk was only defending himself when he Knocked Hancock down
and the man fell on his knife. She admitted to that it was fear of her
father’s wrath that had made her lie in the first place. Afraid of what he
would do if he knew that it was the half Indian young man she was in love
with and not the man he believed was the best choice for her. Hancock was a
controlling and cruel man who cherished her father’s money more than he had
ever cherished her. She and Hawk had shared a awkward moment when they had
said their good byes. It was obvious the love they had had for each other
was now only a hurtful memory.
Fancy Dan Parker had made the biggest mistake of his life when he chose
to challenge Judge Travis after the trial. Chris and the others had stepped
in, but it had been Chris Larrabee’s expertise and speed with his gun that
had ended Parkers life.
Cheyanne was relieved to see the famous bounty hunter dead. Now both Hawk
and Vin were safe.
Hawk had left not long after the trial. He had finally accepted the deep
feelings Cheyanne held for the once buffalo/bounty hunter Vin Tanner and he
wished them both happiness. He knew she would be safe now with both Tanner
and Josiah looking out for her.
Now that he was a free man, he would continue on his path back to the Sioux
That is where he belonged. And Perhaps one day he would find some one who
would help to heal his heart, someone who would love him the way he had
always hoped Cheyanne still did.

Cheyanne set the curry comb on the rail of her horse’s stall and opened the
gate giving her beloved stead a pat on the head before she exited she longed
to climb on the horses back and go for a long ride before the weather became
to cold to do so. But the events of the past summer still left its unseen
scares upon her. It was only recently that she had began to step out side
the church or walk through the town as long as Josiah was at her side. The
courage to ride away on her own had not yet returned but, she was trying.
Returning to her home Cheyanne gathered some bread, some fresh churned butter and apples then put it in the basket that was sitting on the table. She covered the food with a cloth and walked thought the church and out the front door. Molly, Lilly and Emma met her at the bottom of the stairs it was their day to bring lunch for the men building the school. Lilly had made a pot of stew and Molly had made some dessert. Emma had brought eating plates and utensils. The women fell into step as they made their way to where the new school was being built. Through everything the woman had been through the past summer, one thing had never faltered. Their friendship.