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More than a few folks had sought refuge from the heat of the day in the saloon. Buck tossed his hat on the table where JD and Ezra sat. The gambler’s fingers shuffled a deck of cards. “Care for a game, Mr. Wilmington?” Ezra asked with his slow drawl. “I think I know better than that.” He laughed and dropped into a chair. A quick wave at the bartender and a beer was in front of him. Ezra wanted to ask Buck about Cassie but thought better of it when Chris entered the saloon. Even if Chris had not joined them, he thought it might be better to stay any questions since Buck would undoubtedly go straight to Chris. And from experience the last thing Ezra wanted was an overprotective brother after him. The rumble of wagons and horses in the street outside pulled everyone’s attention. Several folks stood to peer out the dirt and dust covered windows. JD was the first up from the table and out the batwing doors. Ezra leaned back in his chair continuing to shuffle the cards. Buck and Chris took long draws on their beers before standing to look at the commotion. “Thank you again for the invitation, Mrs. Travis.” Eva took a sip of tea as they sat in the small sitting room behind the Clarion’s main room. “I was glad you could join me. And please call me Mary. How are you finding our little town? Must be quite different than Baltimore.” “Yes it is. But it does have its charm.” Eva paused, she wasn’t sure she should ask her next questions. “The graveyard, I was walking through it… I know, morbid but a peculiarity of mine… I saw a name, Anna Thompson, she seemed so young to have passed.” The spectral figure she’d seen still pressed on her. “Oh yes, scarlet fever. Such a sad story. Her husband had died a few months earlier. She was waiting on her brother to arrive to escort her and her two children back to Kansas City. She hadn’t come to get any supplies in a few weeks. Another rancher checked in on them and found her dead. She’d been dead a couple of days. The children were 3 and 6, just trying to get by eating bread and some salt pork. Thank goodness we found them then.” “What happened to them?” “Her brother arrived a week later and took them back to family in Kansas.” Eva wanted to ask more questions but the rumble of hooves halted her. “What could that be?” The two women stepped out into the street. A half dozen covered wagons loaded with people and crates stopped in the middle of town. A man on the middle wagon stood up on the seat. “Greetings! We are a merry band traveling group of performers. We will be setting up just outside of town and invite everyone to come join us for a performance or two.” Eva pulled her shawl around her shoulders. The day was gray and overcast, a cold wind blew. She watched from behind the hotel at the colorful set of tents set up just east of town. Most of the traveling troupe were staying in tents and wagons with their group, but a pair of the performers, a married couple were staying at the hotel. The wife, Sabine, was French and had a lovely singing voice. Her uncle expected all the rooms in the hotel to fill up with people coming from other nearby towns to see the troupe. A strange prickling feeling skittered up her spine. Eva scanned the area and saw a man watching her. He was with the theater troupe, but stood alone by a wagon. He had a hat pulled low so she couldn't see his face, but she knew he was watching her. She hurried back inside pulling the door tight behind her. "Everything alright, ma'am?" Cassie asked as she pulled loaves of bread from the oven. "Yes, quite." Eva took a steadingly breath. "I suspect we'll have a full room for supper tonight. I'll ask Molly to help with taking orders out." Eva continued through to the dining room and the hotel lobby. Her uncle stood chatting with the same man from the day before, who asked about hanging posters in the windows. "And this is my niece." "Yes, we met briefly yesterday. But were not properly introduced, Benson Taggert." He shook Eva's hand. "Eva Weathers." "A pleasure, ma'am." Eva wanted to ask about the man she'd seen but that would not be pro

“Buck,” Mary Travis called out from where she stood in front of the hotel. At her side was the owner, Thomas Cole, who was checking his pocket watch. He crossed the street followed by JD. “What can I do for you?” He pushed his hat back. The day was already warm and he could feel sweat pooling down his back. “The stage was due in an hour ago.” Mary could see their ready objection. “And yes I know it could be running late from Eagle Bend... but with the recent trouble...”. A half dozen stages had been hit in the county in the last month. “You ‘specting someone on the stage?” “Yes, a woman from New York escorting a pair of orphans.” “And my niece.” Cole looked at his watch again. “Well I suppose JD and I could take a ride that way, see what we find.” “We would both greatly appreciate that.” Buck squinted looking up at the sun. They were a half hour out of town and no sign of the coach. He’d bet JD fifty cents that it hadn’t even left Eagle Bend. This would end up being a fool’s errand. JD gave a whoop. “You owe me 50 cents.” They’d rounded a corner and there ahead was the stage. It sat at a lopsided angle. A man leaned against the side, a pile of luggage near his feet. Buck recognized the driver and raised a hand in greeting. The sound of female laughter carried to him from a small copse of trees. Two women sat on a fallen tree while another chased two children around. “Hey Mills, what happened?” “Damn wheel axle snapped. Almost dumped us on our side. Sent Charlie to get help. Guessing he went backwards instead of to Four Corners.” He shook his head. “Surprised he ever keeps north and south straight.” “JD, ride over to the Johnson’s farm. Borrow their wagon so we can get these folks into town.” The Johnson farm was only a mile to the east. JD nodded and turn his horse. Buck nodded toward the women and children. “I suppose you at least got pretty scenery while you wait.” Eva Weathers had watched the two men approach on horseback. From where she sat their conversation with the stage driver didn’t travel. One of the men left and the other made his way toward their little group with the driver following. The man was tall, like her Robert. But where her Robert had been fair, from what she could see this man had dark hair. He smiled at the women. “Morning, name’s Buck. Buck Wilmington.” “Buck sent for a wagon so we can get you ladies on yer way.” “That is very appreciated.” The woman next to Eva stood and put out her hand. “Mrs. Caroline Pressman, my maid and I are escorting these children.” She nodded toward the young woman who stood to the side with the children, a baby on her hip. “Ms. Travis mentioned that. And you,” he focused on Eva, “must be Mr. Cole’s niece.” “Yes.” She hesitated for a moment. “Eva Weathers.” “A pleasure.” He touched the brim of his hat. Buck tried to make conversation with the women. The maid kept to her duties with the children. Caroline laughed at his jokes but Eva was harder to read. She’d barely looked up from the book in her lap. He excused himself at the sound of JD returning with the wagon. “Now that is a dangerous man.” Caroline said under her breath. Eva glanced over at him. She didn’t doubt that his good looks and charm had bedded more than a few women. The men loaded up the luggage and the driver called to the women. “Alright, these fellas as going to take you in to town. I can vouch for them. They’ll get ya there safe.” The women could do little but go along with the change. Caroline, her maid, and the children climbed up and got settled. Buck held out a hand to Eva to help her into the wagon. His fingers brushed the bare skin at her wrist above her glove. Warmth swept over Eva and a feeling of safety. A feeling that she hadn’t felt in a long time. There had been little chance for Buck to strike up a conversation with the women on the ride into town. The two children were excited and overwhelmed by the scenery and pointing out everything they saw. He smiled to himself thinking of how once everyone was all settled he'd have to make a special stop over at the hotel to check on Eva Weathers. It

Charlotte Weathers (30) - Charlotte’s mother died when Charlotte was 3. She was raised mostly by household staff. Her father, a surgeon, loved her but just didn't know how to interact with a child. She became interested in medicine at an early age and wanted to become a surgeon (or at least a doctor) but her father said that was no career for a woman. Charlotte did the next best thing and became a nurse. Charlotte married a doctor, Robert. He was a field surgeon during the war and was killed near the end of it. Charlotte spent a lot of time taking care of soldiers, so she’s seen some horrible stuff. They had been married only 5 years when Robert was killed. Much of their marriage was spent apart, since he was helping on the battlefields. Her father died a few months after she was married, so she feels very alone now. Since Robert's death and the end of the war, she's sort of been adrift. She has visited and stayed with various relatives, not finding anywhere she feels comfortable. Charlotte uncle, Thomas, her father’s brother, owns a hotel in Four Corners. It's taken quite a bit of convincing on his part but she's agreed to travel west to the town. Charlotte carries a secret with her. Since she was young, she would have visions and see spirits. She told her father about it once and he told her it was impossible and to never speak of it again. Since then she's never told anyone of it, even Robert did not know. The visions of the dead soldiers she tended to during the war nearly drove her to madness. She hopes that this new place so far from the horrors she saw will cleanse these memories from her. She has long auburn hair which she always wears up. While it's been more than a couple of years since her husband died, she still thinks of herself being in mourning and therefore sticks to dark colors, primarily dark gray and dark navy.

The warmth of the sun on her face caused Molly to stir before a sense of panic filled her. She was always up well before the sun which meant she was late in starting her day. Mr. Cole would be angry. “Hold on there, honey,” came a deep voice she struggled to place. A pair of hands kept her from sitting upright. Molly opened her eyes to see Nathan Jackson's face. Concern filled his dark eyes and it all came rushing back to her; bringing a meal for him and his patient, the encounter with the man named Jonah and Ian. Sweet Jesus. Ian. Her intention to throw herself up and out of the bed she was laying on must have shown on her face because his hands tightened on her arms, “Ms. Crowley...” “Let me up,” Molly demanded. “I want to see him. I want to see my brother.” If her demand coupled with her declaration surprised him at all he didn't show it. “He's restin' which is what you should be doing,” he responded. Molly let the statement sink in. “Resting?” she echoed. “He's not...he's alright?” “A few steps removed from alright but...” “But not...gone...” Molly couldn't bring herself to say the word. Even the euphemism seemed too much like tempting fate. “No. Jonah got him here just on time. You should know though I ain't a doctor. Just do what I can to heal folks.” He stood and walked over to a table that sat underneath a window. Molly sat up and swung her legs over the side of the single bed she now realized was more like a cot. “I've seen the result of some so-called doctors efforts,” Molly responded. “There's hardly enough space in the room for their egos and their patients.” Molly stood and for the first time got a better look at the figure in the bed in the room. Except for the bandages on his arms which lay on top of the quilt he could be sleeping. “How long since you last seen him?” Nathan's voice was quiet. “Years,” Molly whispered. Molly ran her hands down the front of her dress smoothing it out, doing the same with her hair. She rolled up her sleeves. “What needs doing?” she asked, turning to face Nathan. “Ms. Crowley, you don't need...” “Mr. Jackson,” Molly bit out. “I have traveled the length of an ocean and a country to find my brother and been through hell and back between. If you think I am leaving this room without assisting you in his care you are sadly mistaken. Now I ask you again. What needs doing?” he sound of Molly's voice filled Nathan's clinic. Through her chatter, Nathan got a better sense of what she'd been through in an effort to search for her brother. 'Hell and back between' was the term she'd used and it sounded not like much of an exaggeration. She worked as she talked; folding, scrubbing, mending. Ms. Pressman had come to assure her that the hotel was making due but Nathan got the sense Molly could have been fired on the spot and she'd have hardly cared. Nathan believed that people who were unconscious, even deeply so, could hear those around them. He watched as Ian began to stir more and more as if he could sense his sister was near him. Nathan learned quickly that Molly Crowley was not to be handled. She'd insisted early on that he was to call her Molly even as she still called him Mr. Jackson until he likewise insisted she call him Nathan. She wasn't the least bit disrespectful and deferred to, in her words, his expertise. Lord how he didn't want to prove her faith in him wrong. She seemed to have come by nursing much like he'd come by healing, by watching and doing. Nathan had heard her mention a foundling hospital. Late the end of that first night, as they both tried getting some rest, a voice came from the bed, just above a whisper. Where it had Nathan thinking twice about what he was hearing, it had Molly bolting upright out of the cot she'd been laying in. She turned up the lamp next to the bed. “Ian?” the hope in her voice nearly brought Nathan to tears. “Kathleen?” Ian's voice was raspy but at it's sound Molly let out a laugh. “Can that be you, love, or have I met the angels?” “Ian Crowley, you are as ever a caution.” Nathan stood and saw as Molly placed her head on her brother's chest.

Margaret “Molly” Kathleen Crowley grew up in County Cork, Ireland and left for America with her cousin and aunt after the death of her parents and uncle five years before at the end of the great famine. The trio ended up in New York, in the Five Points tenement living with extended family. Molly has worked as a seamstress's assistant and maid-of-all-work and currently serves in the household of Michael and Caroline Pressman, an upper class couple. Caroline sits on the board and is a sponsor of several charitable causes including the New York Foundling Hospital and their so-called “Mercy Trains” (often called “Orphan Trains” though not at time). She's convinced Molly to accompany her as an aid on a trip, helping to supervise and care of a group of children being placed into homes out west in a town called Four Corners. Caroline's been exchanging letters with Mary Travis, a newspaper editor who is assisting in locating homes for the children. Wanting to see more of America and rapidly losing patience with her current crowded living arrangements, Molly readily agrees, though not all of her family is keen on her making the trip. Molly is hoping to get information on the whereabouts of her oldest brother, Ian, who she hasn't seen in nearly seven years but had last heard was living out west. Molly is 22, 5'5” with long, wavy red hair and green eyes. Molly is a survivor, not afraid of hard work, kind and soft spoken. My inspiration for Molly is actress Rachel Hurd-Wood in her portrayal of Laura in the movie Perfume: The Story of a Murder: The sound of horses galloping caught Molly's attention as she kept Hannah and Matthew within arm's reach while trying not to jostle the baby too much and keep them all from Mrs. Pressman and the other passenger. The drive had already been cramped with them all inside the coach and then the axle broke, stranding them until the other coachman could bring help. Molly shielded her eyes with her hand as she looked toward the noise. Two men, too far away to make out any features but the closer they came the harder Molly's heart beat. The hat on the one was similar to what most men seemed to favor wearing this far out west. But the other's...every other young man in New York had that hat with the rounded top and rounded brim. Ian had one. She could remember him walking down the road toward the harbor after kissing her forehead and promising his “fair Kathleen” he'd see her soon. That had been seven years before. She'd lived a lifetime since then. The closer the riders came, the more she could make out their features and see that rider wasn't her darling older brother. The baby let out a cry and Molly re-directed her disappointment to the here and now. The two men passed her and both touched the brim of their hats as they did so. The one with the western hat was older, had a mustache and a ready smile that was full of what her mother would have called “malarkey”. The other in Ian's hat was younger, her age, clean shaven and wore clothes that could have been found on the streets of New York. Molly dipped her head in response and returned her attention to the children now that help had arrived. The younger man had been sent to fetch a wagon from a near-by farm. Soon they were on their way to Four Corners. The entire town could have fit within four square blocks of New York. “Is this where we're living now?” Matthew asked. “Yes,” Molly responded. “I believe the Erickson's live just outside of town but you'll come here to go to school.” “It's small,” Hannah remarked in a tone that Molly couldn't quite tell meant if she liked it or didn't. “You're staying, right?” “You'll be so busy meeting your new family and getting settled, you'll hardly notice if I'm here or not,” Molly assured her. The wagon pulled up outside of a Livery and there was a scurry of activity as several people came to great them and help with trunks and luggage. One, a blond haired woman, greeted Mrs. Pressman warmly and Molly surmised she must be the Mrs. Travis that had helped to place the three children. Molly was the last to remain in

As evening fell on Four Corners and the sun began to set, the men returned from their search and of warning the outer towns folk of a possible predator in the midst. The elusive animal had not yet been found and tensions were running high among the outlying ranchers as they doubled their guards and sent out extra patrols with the herds. In town Chris and most of the men have taken to the saloon for a meal and a drink. Ezra sat calmly at his regular table enticed in a card game with some of the usual saloon patrons. “I take it you have returned with no good news?” He drawled as the rest of his compatriots entered all finding a seat at the nearby table. “Vin thinks its bear” JD piped up in his usual boyish manor. “But what a bears doin down this far outta the mountains he aint sure.” “Hard tellin” Buck chimed in “It was a pretty rough winter, might just be hungry for some good ole beef and then he’ll move on.” The bartender came to the table taking orders for beer and food as the men talked. When ready he returned with plates of food for each man while they contemplated the next move if there was to be one. A sudden rush of wind blew through the bat wing doors and all eyes turned as a young man with long braids, his clothing covered in blood came bursting through them. He was out of breath as he called out anxiously. “There a doctor here? I got a man outside hurt bad.” Nathan quickly stood, “No Doctor I’m the closest thing there is.” He admitted. “You’ll do” The young man nodded eagerly. “You’re the one brought Josiah’s god-daughter in the other day aren’t ya?” Nathan observed as he got closer to him. “The girl with the black and white paint?” Nathan nodded. “Ya that was me, this guy’s hurt a lot worse” he motioned for Nathan to follow him outside with a look of urgency written on his smudged face. As Nathan followed the young man outside many of the others inside the saloon took interest as well and followed them, gathering around as Nathan and the young man rushed over to the horses tied to the post a few steps from the doors. Another man was sat slumped over his saddle his clothing shredded and covered in blood from his wounds. Nathan took a quick assessment. “Let’s get him up to my place so I can get a better look.” Buck and Chris helped to clear away the on lookers giving Nathan and the one called High Wolf room to lead the horse with the wounded man to Nathans. Once he had him upstairs and settled Nathan was able to get a better observation of the man’s injuries. Gashes, scrapes and scratches covered his back, his face and arms and his chest. Nathan shook his head Wondering how he had survived the attack at all. “What happened to him?” “Damn Grizzly” High wolf answered shakily “Came outta nowhere and just attacked before we had chance to get a shot off. That bear was crazy I tell ya.” Nathan looked back at him concerned “You hurt?” High Wolf shook his head “Not bad,” It was clear he was more concerned for his partner. “I’ll be ok, just see to him.” “He a friend of yours?” “We work at the Royal ranch together, ya guess you could say were friends.” “He got a name?” “Only name I know is Ian, he’s an Irishman, he’s got some crazy stories let me tell ya.” High Wolf looked over at his friend then back to Nathan. Worry laced his tone. “He gonna be alright Doc?” Nathan shook his head “he’s lost a lotta blood, some of these wounds are pretty deep. I’ll do what I can.” He nodded toward the chair “You best have a seat over there, soon as I get him settled, I’ll check on those scratches you got.” ***Sometime later**** High Wolf made his way from Nathans toward the saloon. His wounds not nearly as severe as his friends. A couple of scratches on his face, and a gash on his arm that needed to be stitched was about the just of it. He took a glance toward the church and for a moment thought of checking on the girl Cheyenne and see how she was getting along from her accident then thought better of it. What he needed right now was a drink. Chris leaned back in his chair after finishing his meal and looked up at the bartender moti

The Magnificent Seven Ride Cheyenne In a small dusty saloon nestled in the small town of Four Corners five men sat enthralled in a game of five card stud. The dealer, a handsome debonair gambler shuffled the cards expertly. Ezra Standish was an accomplished card player among other things who had recently decided to make Four Corners his home, for the time being anyway. A promise of amnesty had lured him to stay and be part of the seven men hired to protect this small town. To his left a young man with long sandy brown hair, his hat hung behind his back and his fringeless buckskin coat giving him the ambiance of a hunter, to those who knew him he was Vin Tanner ex-buffalo, ex bounty hunter who was also one of the seven men who had recently decided to call Four Corners home, for now. A dollar a day and board and room had been a deal he could not pass up. His personal business would keep for now. He sipped his drink and casually eyed the cards being dealt to him while the man dressed in black sitting next him poured himself another shot of whiskey. Chris Larrabee was a hard man, a self-made gunfighter born out of traumatic loss with a keen sense of right and wrong he favored justice. To the gamblers right was Buck Whilmington, a good-hearted Casanova who you could always count on to back you up in a fight. If you could get him out of bed. Next to Buck doing his best to try and guess the gamblers next move was the youngest of the group, John Dunn affectionally known as JD, a dark-haired young man who probably wasn’t more than eighteen or nineteen, with a fast draw and eager to prove he could hold his own with the best of them. “Ah Hell!” Buck cussed tossing his cards into the middle of the table, “I’m out, this hands about as worthless as a one-legged man in a but kickin contest.” He picked up his mug of beer and strolled over to the bar striking up a conversation with one of the scantily dressed ladies who had been serving the drinks. The saloon doors swung open, a young colored man came through them and made his way over to the table. “Have a seat Nathan, you can take Bucks place. He was losing anyway” JD laughed Nathan Jackson was also one of the men hired to protect the town, An Ex-slave, and a steady hand with a knife. He was also the towns healer and only physician of sorts, he had lived in Four Corners for a few months before any of the others had arrived. He’d learned what doctoring he knew from his time as a stretcher bearer in the union army. And from what he had picked up from a certain Sioux medicine man he had met some years back. Nathan removed his hat and took JD up on his invitation. “You and Josiah sure been busy builden on that church, you get finished yet?” JD asked “Finished up a few days ago” Nathan answered before he ordered some food and a beer from the young waitress. “Why were you building on to it anyway?” JD’s curiosity could not be silenced “You’ll see when Josiah gets back” was the only response Nathan would give. “And where dare I ask has our illustrious preacher gone off to? He’s been quite elusive these past several days”. Ezra questioned while keeping a steady eye on his cards. Vin tossed his cards down discontentedly “I’m out” “Call” Chris declared laying his hand on the table. “Straight flush” Ezra announced as he spread his cards out while flashing a sparkling smile, to the dismay of the remaining players. “He had some place to go” Nathan answered Ezra as the waitress set a plate of food in front of him. “He should be back in a few more days, might be a bit longer” Josiah Sanchez was the last of the seven peacekeepers hired to take care of this small town. An ex-preacher turned gunfighter. No one really knew what had turned the man from his calling but like the rest of them, he had his fair share of secrets in his past. Not even his friend Nathan knew the whole story. eight days later It was midafternoon when a very excited JD came bursting through the saloon doors and rushing over to where some of the seven protectors sat having an early dinner or late lunch depending on how yo

Greeting to all our readers, We would like to inform you that the Ladies of the Magnificent Seven Group has gone on Hiatus for the extended future. We have how ever been hashing out a new idea for a new Magnificent Seven RPG. Nothing is up and going yet its in the very early stages. But if you would like to read our stories please let me know and I will send you an invite. as soon as things get up and running. Thank You and have wonderful day Linda *List Owner*

Ok here it is such as it is. I"m sorry it seems a bit rushed, but I wanted to get it to a good enough place that I can leave it for a bit. Unless I get a wild hare and decided to add more to it I have decided to take a sabbatical, I need a good long break. If y'all want to keep going your free to do so but I have run out of gas. And will be taking a leave from writing for a bit. I've left my other two RPG groups, V The Unseen Resistance I have put on hiatus and Planet of the Apes I left the group. It just seems the longer it takes for posts and the more the story drags the less interested I get in it and it's hard to write. I feel like my muse is just old and tired. So I am taking a break . I'll just be leaving Josiah,Vin and Cheyanne where they are for the time being. Have a great day y'all any comments or concerns feel free to email me off list. Until we meet again Linda Josiah:Part two Belle hurried from the telegraph office back to Nathans. Most of Josiah’s friends had gone for the time being choosing to wait elsewhere. She pulled her shawl tighter around her shoulders more out of uneasiness than cold. She tapped lightly on the door to Nathans room and wondered if it would be Nathan or Cheyanne that would answer. She was relieved when Nathan appeared in the doorway. “How is he?” she asked in a small unsteady voice “He’s holden his own m’am” Nathan answered giving her a hopeful smile. Belle took in a heavy breath then slowly let it out “Would it be possible for me to see him?” Nathan thought for a moment before he answered “I suppose so, but he he’s still unconscious ma’am” “I promise I won’t stay long, please Mr. Jackson” she begged “I need to see him” Nathan hesitated then nodded giving his permission and moved aside to let her enter. Belle entered the small room and going over to Josiah’s bedside she sat on the chair next to where he lay, tears trickled down her cheeks as she reached over and gently took his hand. “I’m so sorry Josiah, if you hadn’t been protecting me none of this would have happened.” Josiah slowly stirred, his eyes began to open and he tried to smile when he beheld the woman he was beginning to care for “Belle” his voice weak and raspy. “Hush don’t try to talk,” she answered holding back her emotion. “Not, yo-ur f-fault.” “Shh” Belle insisted “Rest now.” She looked over at Nathan. “That bullets still in there Josiah,” Nathan told him “You got to stay still, no more talking, We sent for the doctor,” Josiah looked over at Nathan, “An-nie” “I expect her any minuet. Now will you take it easy; you need your strength.” “Vin- ne-need- to ta-talk to- Vin” he queried <https://www.wordhippo.com/what-is/another-word-for/queried.html> “He’s gone for the doctor, lay stay still now” Nathan repeated more strongly “I don’t want that wound to start bleeding again” After giving Nathan a weak nod that he understood Josiah attempted to speak again then closed his eyes and mercifully lost consciousness. Belle tenderly set his hand down and bent over and kissed his cheek. “I’ll be back to check on him later.” She told Nathan and with one last look to Josiah she quietly left. ** Cheyanne raced from the church back to Nathans arriving Just as Belle reached the bottom of the stairs. Their eyes met for only a moment before Cheyanne scurried passed flashing a vile glare Belles way as she rushed up the stair way. * Quietly Cheyanne opened the door to Nathans room and went inside. Her eyes immediately fell on the wounded Josiah. Her worry unmistakably written in her furrowed brow. “He came to a few minutes ago, he was asking for you.” Nathan offered Cheyanne slowly went over to where her benefactor lay sleeping. She knelt by the bedside and took his hand. “I am here Josiah.” She stayed for a long moment there at his side until finally she stood going over to the bundle shed brought with her she began to unravel it. Nathan watched as Cheyanne unwrapped the small bundle she had brought with her and set the contents out on the table. He’d seen her do this once before When her Friend Emma had been shot, he stayed quiet and

Okay here it is... I had a major mental block in trying to write this (just blocked creatively with all my writing right now). Emma straightened the length of fabric out on the table. It was deep blue satin that would become a dress for Lily. She had ordered lace to go with it that should have arrived on the day’s stagecoach. She debated going to the mercantile to check now or wait till the afternoon. Gunshots and a woman’s scream stopped her thoughts. Emma opened the shop door and stepped on to the boardwalk. People were running. Men emptied from the saloon. Ezra was suddenly at her side. “Get back inside and lock the door.” He gave her a gentle shove. She nodded mutely and did as he instructed. Emma checked the back door to reassure herself it was also locked. From her hiding spot in the back room she could not see what was happening outside. There was yelling and commotion. Time seemed to stand still. It was several minutes before a furious knocking on the front door. “Emma, open up.” It was Ezra. She opened the door and he grabbed her hand. “Mr. Jackson has requested your presence.” “I-I don’t understand.” She followed in his wake. “What is happening?” “Two gentlemen decided to rob the mercantile. Our Mr. Sanchez was shot in the altercation.” “Shot? Is he....” She found she couldn’t say the words. “He is still with us.” “I’ll come for you as soon as Nathan says it’s okay.” Emma knew her words would be little comfort for her friend. Once the door was closed she looked to Nathan for direction. “Wash up yer hands and then we gotta get this bleeding stopped.” Lily hung back at the end of the boardwalk. People had gathered in twos and threes at the bottom of the stairs to Nathan's talking in low voices. Chris was standing with the young woman that Lily had come to know was his sister. They had not been introduced even though she'd been in Four Corners for some time. Lily had not asked about her, beyond noting that she'd heard his sister was in town. Their relationsip was not conventional and she wondered if his sister would approve. As if sensing her watching, Chris broke away from his sister and made his way to Lily. "How is Josiah?" "Don't know yet. Shot in the chest." "Buck said that Emma is assisting." Chris nodded. "Well then, I'll go back to the saloon." "Lily," he grabbed her hand, "I sh-." His words stopped almost abruptly. He shook his head. "Nevermind." "Alright." She tried to smile but found the act too difficult. "If there's anything I can do, please come and get me." It could have been hours or days, Emma lost track of time as she worked with Nathan. The air in the room was thick with the scent of blood. Nathan sat down on a chair and hung his head. “Don’t know what else I can.” Emma rinsed out a washcloth in the water basin. She sat next to Josiah. “So what do we do?” “Maybe if we can get a doctor from Eagle Bend. I don’t dare try to remove the bullet. It’s so close to his heart.” Nathan stood. “I need to tell everyone what’s happening.” Emma stayed behind cleaning up the room as best she could. She didn’t want to leave Josiah alone. The door opened a few minutes later; Ezra entered behind Nathan. “I can’t thank you enough for your help Ms. Emma.” Nathan gave her a tired smile. “I don’t feel like I was that much of a help.” Emma sighed. She suddenly felt exhausted. “And now what?” “To start,” Ezra reached out a hand to her, “I believe we should get you cleaned up.” Emma looked down at her dress. Blood stained much of it. “What about Josiah?” “Our Mr. Tanner shall be departing shortly to find a surgeon.” He explained that Belle was sending word to get her father’s private surgeon. “I can stay and help till then.” “I appreciate the offer Ms. Emma, but nothin’ more to be done right now. Nothing but wait.” Emma felt like she was sleepwalking as Ezra lead her back to the saloon. He took her through the kitchen entrance knowing that the state of clothing may cause a commotion even among the daytime drinkers inside. Lily was in the kitchen when they entered. "Oh cherie," she took hold of Emma's hands. "How is Josiah?" Ezra relayed the information about Belle sending for her father's surgeon. "We must get you cleaned up. I'll have Henry start bringing in water for a bath. Ezra, why don't you take her upstairs." They were barely through the door to Ezra's room when Emma collapsed in tears on the floor. Ezra lowered himself with her holding her shaking body to his. He'd seen a fair number of men die, some horribly. But he doubted Emma had ever been this close to seeing death before. "It's okay." He stroked her hair trying to soothe her. "No, no it's not." She shook her head. "I was useless. All the blood... I wanted to throw up. I've never seen..." "According to Mr. Jackson you were most helpful. And I do not believe he gives out praise lightly." Ezra stood and crossed to the other side of the room. He dipped a washcloth in the basin on the dresser and came back to sit with her. Gently he took her hands in his cleaning the blood from each finger. "Unfortunately, I'm not sure even our laundress could save your dress." He tried to joke. Emma looked down at the soiled and stained dress. "I don't think I could wear it again, even if she could." "Let's ponder that another time. Now let's get you undressed and ready for that bath."

Molly stood outside the door to Lily'sroom working up the nerve to knock on the door. She'd gone over whatshe'd planned to ask Lily several times in her mind. Lily had provento be liberal with her views on a lot of different topics includingmen and women. She had encouraged Molly's relationship with Buck andwhere most at this point may be urging marriage, Lily understood whatMolly's Independence meant to her and the price she'd paid for it.But if anything might test the true nature of Lily's acceptance,Molly's request might be it. Deciding she had nothing to lose, shefinally knocked on the door. It opened nearly immediately. "Good morning, chere," Lilygreeted cheerfully. She wore a simple day dress of cream and blue buteven a simple dress on Lily was worn with an elegance most womenwould envy. "I was wondering when you'd bring yourself toknock," she stepped back and allowed Molly to enter the room. "You know you never have tohesitate at my door," she said, taking a seat at her vanity shebegan to unwind her hair from the braid it was in. Molly set herschool things down on the table near the door and pulled off hergloves. "Yes, well, I have aquestion...more like a request and I'm not quite sure how to ask it,"Molly said, walking up to the vanity. She picked up Lily's brush andpulled it through her hair. Lily sat up straight and looked at Mollythrough the mirror. "I would suggest the directapproach might be best,” Lily responded. Molly nodded as shedivided Lily's hair into several sections. “You also know I neverexpect you to...tend to me when you come see me?” “Of course I know that. I don'tmind.” Molly focused her attention on her task for a couple ofminutes. “Is your request to quit teaching andbecome my lady's maid?” Lily teased. “Because it would be verydifficult to say no.” “It's about Buck,” Molly said,“About Buck and I. We've only been...together...one night. Thenight we were at Mr. Larabee's house. It's been...aggravating to nothave any privacy. The time we've been able to find alone is hardlyever enough to be conducive to...” Molly placed the last hairpin inplace and Lily turned on the vanity seat to face her. “He won'ttake me to his room...” “I should hope not,” Lily respondedand stood up. “I may have an idea,” she walked to the door andled Molly into and down the hallway toward the back staircase Mollyused when she came to visit so she wouldn't have to go through thesaloon. She stopped in front of a door Molly had always assumed was acloset and opened it. Except for several crates stacked at one end ofthe room, it was empty. “It simply needs a bed.” Molly felt herface heat as she crossed the room to a window that looked out on tothe alleyway. “How would you explain that?” Mollyasked, turning back around. “This is my place, chere, I owe noone an explanation.” “What about Buck? What would hethink? Maybe this isn't a good idea...” Lily crossed the room andtook Molly's hands in hers. “Buck would be charmed. I know it.He's waited this long to be with you again, he's taken care to seethat your reputation has been kept up and he's taken care to be sureto see how very special you are to him. Leave this to me. Give me afew days and then this is your space.” Molly embraced Lily, sothankful to have found a friend in her. They walked out the room andback toward Lily's when a noise stopped them both. Molly reached forand grabbed Lily's hand. “Was that...?” The pair hurriedtoward the front stairs to see several men exit the saloon. Molly wasabout to start down when Lily pulled her back. “Wait.” The pair stood for whatseemed to be hours while more gunfire and shouts and screams filledthe air. Molly was thankful it was still early enough that herstudents wouldn't have begun making their way to the school yet.Finally, it seemed to be quiet and the pair cautiously made their waydown the stairs and out the door. Buck hurried across the street to them,holstering his gun and a chill ran through Molly. “Nathan asked for Miss Emma but hemight need you both too,” he said. The trio made their way down thestreet toward Nathan's clinic as

Ok here it is and as usual I have attached the word version for better reading and paragraphing. Hope it was ok including your characters as I have. and tag who ever is next. Colleen? Sam? Josiah: Part one The Wind blew, the clouds parted, and out came the sun. Josiah smiled to himself remembering when Buck had said that very same line over three years ago in a small Indian village a day’s ride from the town that had become their home. Of course Buck had meant it in a slightly different context than Josiah did right now. It was a beautiful warm and sunny day in Four Corners. Winter had passed fairly uneventfully, and Spring had finally arrived. Josiah was in high spirits today, his budding romance with Belle Chandler looked to be going well, and Cheyanne seemed to have finally recovered from the torments of her past and the sorrows of the last year. He doubted she would ever ‘really’ be over it all, but she had learned to overcome it. She still kept Vin Tanner at arm’s length, but it look as though they too had been socializing more. Josiah had to admire Vin’s persistence and patience. He surmised that Vin must care very deeply for Cheyanne to stand by her and wait so patently for her all this time. It gave him much comfort to know that Vin would be there for his surrogate daughter should, God forbid, something happen to him. Josiah stepped around the corner of the church just as Cheyanne walked out of the barn with Blaze, her wolf pup who had become her constant companion followed close behind then lazily laid down nearby. “Annie” Cheyanne fed Blaze the carrot she had in her hand and upon hearing her name turned to see Josiah coming toward her. “I’m going to the mercantile do you want to come along?” he asked as he reached her. Cheyanne shook her head no and with the curry brush she held in her hand began brushing Blaze along his back. “Alright then, do you want me to bring you anything?” Turning back to look at her benefactor she nodded “Carrots for Blaze, and sugar cubes.” Josiah chuckled “with all the sweets you feed that horse it’s a wonder he can run the way he does.” Cheyanne smiled, “You are only jealous because you did not win our race yesterday.” Josiah laughed, “I want a rematch, the wolf got in my way” Cheyenne’s Christmas present from Vin had grown substantially in the last few months, his thick grey coat was taking on a more white hue and he seemed to be growing more and more by the day, he was already standing knee high to her, he had the stealth of a cat and was proving to be quit the guard dog. “You got a name for him yet?” Josiah asked nodding toward the sleeping wolf pup. Cheyanne nodded “Ghost” “Well it Suits him. I’ll be back soon, you sure you don’t need anything else?” “I am sure” Cheyanne answered before resuming her task. Her thoughts lingered on Josiah and the storekeeper Belle. She was glad to see Josiah so happy. It had been a long time since a woman had put such a twinkle in his eye. This Belle Chandler seemed pleasant enough, but Cheyanne sensed there was more to the woman than was visible, she held a secret. What it was Cheyanne had no way of knowing. But there was something, something that kept her from trusting completely. And that something is what kept Cheyanne from trusting her as well. **** “Good morning” Belle greeted Josiah when the bell over the door jingled as he entered the store. Josiah removed his hat “Well good morning Miss Belle and how is the most beautiful storekeeper in town doing this fine day?” Belle blushed. She had come to enjoy the preacher’s flirtatiousness and found it amusing. “I am well, thank you Josiah. And where is your ever-constant ward this morning?” The girl Cheyanne was usually with him when he visited the store. She was a noticeably quiet girl, she seemed very shy and never said much.Belle had started to become more at ease around her. She had heard about the trouble with the bounty hunter last year. The girl had stuck up for her innocent friend and taken the blow for her actions.Belle knew how hard that must have been for her. She had also found her

ok here it is such as it is. But just wasn't into it I guess, sorry its kinda lame but it will do. Its about all I could think of. Tag Shawna your it Cheyanne stood and wrapped the quilt tighter around her shoulders as she tried to stretch out the kink that had formed in her neck. She had spent the night sitting in a chair in Nathans room so that she could look after the girl who had fallen ill the night before. Nathan had taken up a bedroll at the church. The embers in the fireplace still burned red hot as Cheyanne poked at them with the fireiron before she put another log in. Once the log began to burn Cheyanne moved over to the bed where the girl still lay sleeping. Shawna stirred and her eyes fluttered open. It took a few minutes for her to get her bearings and remember what had happened the night before.When the memory finally came into focus she looked over to see a familiar face looking down at her. “Cheyanne?” The half Indian girl gave her a small smile “Do you remember me?” She asked as she tried to sit up Cheyanne moved to help her “Yes, I remember you. It has been a long time.” “I never expected to see you here, where’s Josiah? You still traveling with him?” Cheyanne nodded “He is at the church” Shawna’s eyes widened “The church!? He take up preachin again?” Cheyanne nearly laughed at the girls surprise “Josiah held a Christmas service, but I do not think he will be doing such things all of the time. Maybe sometimes if his heart tells him.” “Sure wish I could have seen that” Shawna giggled From what she remembered of Josiah he may spout the bible but as he once said, he had a hard time turning the other cheek. Cheyanne set a kettle on the stove to heat. “Are you feeling better?” “A little “Shawna answered “My head is still throbbing some” “I will fix you more of the herb tea. Do you have a place to stay?” “Not yet, do you know of a place in town?” The tea pot whistled and Cheyanne removed it from the stove, she sprinkled some of the herbs from her pouch into a cup and poured the hot water into it before handing the hot brew to Shawna. “Yes, We will take you there when you are dressed. Josiah will be here soon.” An hour later a knock at the door broke the silence and nearly startled both girls. Shawna took notice at how uncharacteristically nervous Cheyanne seemed to be until she saw Josiah. She was unaware of the turmoil Cheyanne had been through the last year or how much she had accomplished since then. It had been a long while since they had seen each other. But she was happy to reconnect with her friends again. “Well now” Josiah greeted the girl as he and Nathan entered the room. He immediately recognized the girl clad in men’s clothing complete with duster and hat, as the young woman that he and Cheyanne had met on the trail some time ago. The young woman had taken ill and fallen from her horse when they came upon her. Cheyanne had used her knowledge of Cheyenne medicine to help her get back on her feet. They had ridden together for a few days until finally their paths lead in different directions. “Miss Shawna? Is that you?” Shawna smiled “Hello Josiah” “Shawna is in need of a place to stay Josiah.” Cheyanne spoke up. “I told her we could take her to the boarding house.” “Lead the way ladies” “Now hold on” Nathan interrupted “you sit right back down there young lady; You aren’t going nowhere until I have a look at you” Conceding to Nathans wishes Shawna removed her coat and sat on the nearby chair. Once Nathan was satisfied the girl was well enough to leave he warned her to take it easy for the next few days before she departed. Josiah, Cheyanne, and Shawna made their way toward the boarding house. The morning air was crisp and cold. Cheyanne pulled the hood of her cape over her head in an effort to keep warmer, she pulled it tight around her neck and kept her eyes focus on the ground as she did her best to keep in step beside Josiah. “Good morning” a friendly voice called out to them. Cheyanne looked up to see Emma and Molly standing at the doorway to Belles Mercantile. She smiled and greeted them both warmly. “We were just on our way to see you” Molly said as she greeted her friend and tried inconspicuously to hide the small wrapped gift she had in her hand. Emma did her best to do the same as she greeted Cheyanne with a quick embrace. “We missed you at dinner last night.” “I am sorry, Nathan needed my help” Cheyanne apologized “These are my friends” she announced turning to Shawna then back to the other girls “This is Emma and Molly” They each greeted her politely. “Nice to meet you, I’m Shawna, Shawna Larrabee” “Larrabee?” Josiah questioned “Any relation to Chris Larrabee?” “He’s my brother” Shawna answered, the forlorn expression she held gave them the sense that the sibling relationship was an estranged one. “Is that right. Well now, maybe we should head over to the saloon and see if Chris is there” “He’s here? You know him?” “Yes ma’m everyone here knows who Chris is.” Josiah answered her eagerly “Why I’ll bet he’s at the saloon right about now. C’mon I’ll take you.” “No please,” Shawna stopped the burly man before he trudge off with her in tow. “If it’s all the same to you Josiah I’d rather get a room and lay down for a bit first” “If that’s what you want” He politely tipped his hat to Emma and Molly. “Ladies” “Good day Josiah” Emma smiled “Cheyanne will you be home later?” Molly asked Cheyanne nodded “It’s alright Cheyanne,” Shawna spoke up not wanting to keep Cheyanne from her friends. It was obvious they had Christmas gifts for her“ you can go on It’s cold out and I’m sure your anxious to get back indoors where it’s warm. Josiah can take me the rest of the way. I’ll see you later on” Cheyanne handed her a small pouch. “You should rest, If the pain returns make a tea with this.” Shawna thanked her before continuing on toward the boarding house with Josiah.Cheyanne, Emma, and Molly hurried off toward the church.

Okay ladies here it is. Sorry so delayed, I really need to get my mojo back (plus I have terrible tendinitis in my arm which makes writing difficult). ? Lily greeted folks at the doors. She’d invited a handful of people for supper at the saloon after Josiah’s service. She couldn’t remember the last time she’d sat through a church service. It had been long since she’d felt comfortable inside a church. “Josiah,” Lily smiled at the older gentleman, “it was a lovely service.” “Thank you.” He ducked his head, his cheeks turning warm. Josiah motioned to the woman at his side. “You’ve met Ms. Chandler?” “I have not.” Lily extended her hand. “Our new mercantile owner, correct? It is nice to meet you.” “Thank you. Nice to meet you as well. I hope that I’m not intruding,” Belle gestured toward the long table set up in the saloon. “Absolutely not. You are most welcome to join us.” “Josiah seems enamored by our new mercantile proprietress.” Ezra remarked as he removed his boots. “I noticed that.” Emma looked at him in the mirror reflection. She sat brushing her hair. “I wonder how Cheyenne feels about that. She is quite protective of him in her way.” “You are missing your family tonight are you not?” Ezra had seen her it in her eyes. “I suppose I am.... I do miss my brother. I hate thinking of him believing that I’m dead.” “While I can do nothing to about that,” Ezra pulled a white box from the wardrobe; a dark blue silk ribbon wrapped around it. “Merry Christmas.” “Oh Ezra,” Emma slowly undid the ribbon and opened the box. Under delicate white tissue paper sat gorgeous pale blue silk brocade fabric. “I.... this is beautiful.” “Lily assisted me in procuring it from a dressmaker she knew in New Orleans. I made the assumption that you prefer to make your own dress with it.” “It is the most beautiful fabric I’ve ever seen.” Lily pulled a small box from the pocket of her robe. She handed it to Ezra. “I’m not sure this compares to your gift but...” Ezra took the box and opened it. Inside sat a pair of gold cuff links inset with a dark green stone. Emma sat next to him on the bed. “They were my father’s.” “Emma... I...,” Ezra found himself speechless; something that rarely happened. “I never wanted to give them to...” she was unable to say her husband’s name. “But I want you to have them.”

Hi all! Just wanted to say that I am working on a part. Sorry for the delay. It’s been crazy at work the last couple of weeks (we’ve had to furlough folks and we all had to take a pay cut - and I had to send out the emails telling folks their new pay rate). But by the end of the week I’ll have something put. Sent from the TARDIS

Welcome and thanks for joining us! I'm looking forward to getting to know Shawna and reading more. I think Sam is going to go next to finish up Christmas and then the plan is to jump ahead a few months - Cheers and happy weekend (for whatever that's worth right now) :) Colleen :)

Christmas Eve: Cheyanne finished brushing her long dark hair then pulled the sides up and back securing each side with the tortoise shell hair combs Vin had given her months ago. She then stood back admiring her new gingham dress. The color was a light blue, The small yolk and cuffs on sleeves were white and a thinblack ribbon outlined the yolk and tied in a small bow around the neck. Tiny black buttons accented the white cuffs and down the front of the yolk. Josiah had insisted they exchange their Christmas gifts before the service so that she could wear the new dress he’d gotten her. He had sent for it all the way to Kansas City and had enlisted Emma’s help with the measurements. It was a perfect fit. Before she left her room Cheyanne glanced over to the little box at her bedside. Her wolf pup slumbered peacefully in his blanket. She hoped he would sleep soundly until her return. Leaving her living quarters Cheyanne went into the church and over to the room off to the side of the pulpit that Josiah occupied. The door was slightly ajar. She tapped lightly on the door as not to surprise him. “Josiah?” Josiah was nervously fumbling with the top button on his black shirt when he answered. “Annie can you help me with his, my fingers don’t seem to want to work at the moment. Cheyanne quietly stepped inside and assisted him with the last button. He thanked her then removing his prayer beads from where they hung over the bed post he slipped them over his head.Taking in a heavy breath and letting it out He tried to calm himself. “Well, what do you think?” Cheyanne gave him a small smile “très beau**(Veryhandsome)” Josiah’s tension was getting the best of him as he walked over to the window and peered out. “Awe Annie, what am I doin? I’m no preacher anymore” Cheyanne went over to him and put and comforting hand on his arm. “Then do not preach, feel what is in here” She touched his chest “Share what is in your heart. It will tell you what to say.” Her understanding and encouragement touched him and he took her hand in his giving it a loving squeeze.“You know that dress suits you, you look absolutely beautiful.” Cheyanne smiled “merci beaucoup Josiah” A soft knocking made them both turn to see Vin standing at Josiah’s doorway. He politely removed his hat. “I’m sorry if I interrupted.” “Not at all, Is it time?” Josiah asked nervously. Josiah’s anxiety was obvious and Vin tried not to be amused by it. “No, you got a few minutes yet. I just came ta see if I could escort Cheyanne to church.” He turned his attention toward her. “You look mighty pretty tonight Cheyanne.” Cheyanne blushed and quietly Thanked him. Josiah smiled inwardly. He’d never known Vin to be much on religion. He presumed the man’s interest tonight was more for Cheyanne than the enlightenment of a spiritual nature. It did Josiah’s heart good to see his Annie beginning to come out of the darkness that had robbed her of her spirit. The last several months had been rough with everything that had happened. The kidnapping, the massacre of the Sioux, the death of Blue Leaf, the trouble with Hawk, and Cheyanne remembering her tragic past. She had been withdrawn and isolated from everyone and everything she ever cared about for months now, except for him. But recently he’d began to see a slight change in her.She seemed to be coming out of her depression more and more and it made him happy to see her smiling again. He hoped and prayed she would continue to heal, maybe this is why he had felt the need to conduct this Christmas Eve service. It was his way of giving thanks. “Josiah?” Cheyanne’s gentle voice broke him from his thoughts “Will you be alright?” “Yes, yes,” He answered her with a grin and an approving nod. “You go on now, I’ll see you after the service.” Vin held out his arm “Miss Beaujeax?” Cheyanne timidly slipped her hand around Vins outstretched elbow as he led her from the pulpit to a seat in the front row next to the isle as Josiah closed the door behind them. Not long after more people slowly began to trickle into the church. Molly and Buck were one of the fir

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.

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."