Chapter Eight: The Death of Mary Collins

Calian hated to admit that he had found the last two weeks to have been…tedious. Taza had made it clear that he wanted Calian to remain close to home not only for his security, but also for his overall well being. He needed to reconnect to his own people, fall back into the routine of their lives, and focus on his future.

The time away from Independence only proved to Calian that he was meant for more.

Life with the tribe was the same every day. The limitations set on them from the government didn’t allow them the same freedoms they once enjoyed, like traveling with the seasons, or interacting with others. They were isolated on that little plot of land, and it made Calian restless.

Taza finally allowed Calian to join him on a hunt, and it was the first time in two weeks Calian found himself excited by anything. He missed Augustus and their talks. He missed Abby. It was like a piece of him was missing, and it took a great deal of energy to turn his mind from thinking on her. He even missed Hoyt and his easy humor. He missed the spontaneity of life in town. 

While they were walking together, tracking nothing at the moment, Taza broke the silence with, “You seem at peace. This time away from town has done you good.” 

Calian didn’t want to say something he might regret, and thankfully, he didn’t have to say anything. There was a commotion a short distance from them, and they ran off to seek out the source.

A small dying fire was the only visible evidence of a potential danger, but being so close to their camp was enough to put them all on edge. A younger man of their tribe had joined them, and Calian urged both he and Taza to return to camp and warn their people. It was always best to be overprepared than to be surprised. Calian would continue on and see if he could discover whether the tribe was at risk.

A short walk through the trees that dotted the landscape and he found himself ambushed. A woman from another tribe was quick to defend herself, barely giving Calian a moment to react. They ended up tumbling over a short drop and the woman got the upper hand. 

She straddled his mid-section and pressed her knife to his throat. “Are you going to kill me, or let me help you, Calian?”

She knew his name, and this caught him by surprise. “Who are you? What do you want?”

She had not shifted her threatening position, but did give her name, Topsannah. She continued that she was there to save his life. He gave her a raised eye brow in response given it was she who had attacked first, and was still ready to slit his throat.

Calian grabbed his horse and with Topsannah, set off for her camp. They didn’t speak much on their long ride. Calian wanted to stay focused, he’d already been ambushed once, and because Topsannah hadn’t been overly forthcoming with any information, she hadn’t encouraged any conversation between them. And besides all that, she was Comanche. Their tribes were not exactly on friendly terms.

Hours later, they arrived where her people lived…past tense.

Their homes had been burned down, their cattle slaughtered, the people annihilated.

It was an all too familiar scene.

“Government agents came. Said this land…was too valuable.” Topsannah’s voice was on the verge of breaking. The wounds of such a tragedy would never heal. Calian knew them well.

“They wanted to relocate you?” Calian’s anger was rising.

“Yes. But the railroad men would not wait. It was not enough to move us. They needed to kill us.”

These actions taken against their people was a reason to unite. It was becoming too commonplace. 

And somehow, Topsannah had heard of what had happened to his sister. She knew of his time spent in town, and given the sneer on her face and in her tone, she did not approve. “My elders spoke of you with curiosity. And respect.”

Calian’s reputation often preceded him. Despite their differences, Calian offered Topsannah sanctuary with his tribe, and did so in her own tongue, so she would know the offer was genuine.

It surprised her. She continued by letting him know that she had tracked the men who had massacred her people, and Calian’s camp was now in their sights. “You cannot defend yourselves on your own. That was our mistake.” Neither of them had been able to tear their eyes away from the destruction that was laid out before them, but with her final words, she looked at him, and spoke in the white man’s language. “You need allies, Calian, wherever you can find them.”

Thankfully, he thought to himself, he knew a few people who would be up for the challenge.

~ * ~

Chapter Nine: Strange Bedfellows

Topsannah burned with vengeance for her people, and until she mourned them, properly, she would not return to Calian’s camp. She thanked him for the invitation, while he thanked her for the warning, and then they went their separate ways.

He wasn’t certain he would ever see her again.

The long ride home gave Calian a great deal of time to think. He was tired of feeling helpless. His life had nearly been taken from him because of what other people had deemed him as – a non-citizen of his own land. Then, having been beaten and segregated to small portions of their once vast regions, those parcels of land were now being taken for the white man’s own expansion. 

They would never have enough. And they could do whatever they wanted.

And then, because their citizenship to their own land was invalidated, there was no one to stand for them. There was no one to defend them. They had no rights. They would gradually all be exterminated simply for the fact that they had been there first, were too primitive to stand up to the ever advancing technologies, and they had something others wanted.

They didn’t have a chance.

Anger seethed under Calian’s skin.

He arrived home in a bad mood, but it swiftly changed to concern when he saw the face of the one who came to tell him that Taza had fallen ill. He had collapsed after the hunt.

Calian handed over his quiver and took purposeful strides into Taza’s tent.

Taza’s tent was large, and Calian was able to stand upright as he moved to Taza’s bed side. A sliver of dread ran down Calian’s spine as he looked at his leader brought low. He rambled about where he had been and what he had seen, he wanted to share the information with Taza, but as he looked at him, he realized that Taza was, indeed, ill. “Rest now, and heal. When you wake, I’ll need your guidance more than ever. We all will.”

Taza sighed, tired, and looked up, as if there were answers to be found there. “I have outlived my time to lead.”

“Don’t be so sure, old man.” Calian never let an opportunity to tease his mentor pass them by.

Taza couldn’t help but smile. “Your thoughts should not be of me, but of you, and whether you are ready to lead.”

And there it was. 

Taza had been hinting at it for years, but in the last few months, he had become more determined to have Calian follow in his footsteps and become chief. Calian had never been certain that was the right path, but then, given Taza’s health, he might not have another choice.

Calian left Taza to rest while he went to find a quiet spot where he could think.

Just outside of camp trying to find peace, Calian sat on a large rock and enjoyed a moment’s reprieve. He didn’t know what he was going to do yet, and as he tried to find his way through his muddled thoughts and emotions, the biggest diversion to his concentration came riding up on horseback.

Abby.

In spite of his emotional state, seeing her put everything right. 

He stood up to greet her and led her horse back to camp. He helped her dismount, and then they walked together. “I’ve been hoping to see you again.” She had looked anxious when she arrived, but hearing words she clearly needed to brought her a sense of relief. “I thought of going to town, but it’s not an option for me right now.”

“I know. That’s why I came to you.” With everything going on, Calian didn’t wish to burden her, and just the slight change in his demeanor was enough for Abby to notice. “Calian, is something wrong?” They stopped walking and looked at one another.

“Chief Taza. He’s dying.” Said out loud, to her, made it more real.

He watched as the weight of his words hit her. Her breath caught and tears immediately welled. “I’m sorry.” Abby responded in Apache and reached out to take Calian’s hand.

He looked down at their joined hands and let his thumb slide back and forth over hers. He took a moment to feel gratitude that she was there and he could touch her. It was all he had wanted these past weeks, but now there was this. “When he’s gone, I don’t know what it’ll mean for the future of my people. Or how I can protect them.” This was what was most pressing for Calian after having seen the Comanche camp.

“Taza believes in you. You said it yourself.” Abby gave him one of her piercing looks, but it faltered.

He questioned what had happened, and she told him of her doubt, she owed him that. He took both her hands in his then, and drew her a little closer. “Abby, admitting to doubt and changing your view is just as valuable as the truth itself. I believe in you, Djon-deh-zee.” He offered her a small smile, the first real one he had had in weeks, and was delighted to see her warm under his gaze.

She apologized once more before setting off for having troubled him when he already had so much too worry about. He reassured her that she was always welcome, and that as her friend, he would always be there for her. She gave him one of her looks, one that made his heart thud hard against his chest, and watched her ride off in the afternoon glow.

He was barely able to enjoy the moment before someone came to tell him that Taza’s time had come.

Inside his tent, the rhythmic beat of the drum, the incense, and the oppressive silence, made the scene even more somber. Calian took Taza’s hand and listened intently as Taza spoke his last words. If he told the elders that Calian should be chief, they would listen to him. Calian could only respond with, “Why me?”

“You have always been caught between two worlds. And that may be our only hope at surviving what’s to come with the Iron Horse.” Taza’s words were hushed, strained.

Calian countered with how the town had treated him after everything he had done, but Taza reiterated that he had helped them to feel differently, and he could do it again.

“I will miss you.” Calian grabbed Taza’s hand with both of his own, determined to impart his love for Taza in the ferocity of his emotion. “I promise I will help our people.”

“You already have.”

Calian gave Taza an acknowledging head nod, straightened upright, and gave Taza his final words. He had led them through dark times and into the light, and it was now their time to lead his soul to the air. Calian offered their love and gratitude as Taza’s eternal companions as they could not follow him.

The tribe had come to terms with the loss of their leader, it was a natural next step, they believed, and now they waited for his spirit to find its way to the other realm. After he took his final breath, Calian left camp to mourn his passing.

He could barely see, and he was thankful that his horse knew the way.

Calian found Augustus waiting for him. Knowing what he looked like, he watched as Gus raced through a dozen scenarios trying to prepare for what had caused Calian to look so. “Taza’s passed.”

This was not what Gus was expecting. “I’m so sorry. Is there anything I can do?”

“He asked me to take over as chief. And whether or not I accept, I need to be there for my people. The railroad is bringing those determined to wipe us out in the name of progress. I need allies.”

“You have me, Calian.” Augustus was firm in his pledge.

“Augustus.” The name wrenched itself from Calian’s lips while tears continued to stream down his face. He felt broken, lost. “After my family was murdered, Taza raised me as his own. Now he’s gone too. I don’t know if I can do this.” He was overwhelmed.

“Well, I might have something for you. After your trial, word spread. And I figured, why not follow it? I reached out to lawmen across Texas on any news on Nascha.” Calian couldn’t help but look skeptically at what Gus was implying. “Calian, I might know where your sister is.”

Calian was ready to jump out of his skin. He wanted to take off right then in search of Nascha, but Gus reminded him they needed supplies, some rest, and a little daylight. They knew neither would sleep, now that such a bombshell had been revealed, but it would give Calian time to wrap his mind around losing Taza and potentially regaining his sister.

Augustus would return to town and then meet Calian in a few hours. They would ride at first light.

~ * ~

Chapter Ten: All In

When daylight came, Calian and Augustus rode hard. After some time, Gus yelled out to Calian that, “The horses need a break, and so do we.”

They brought their horses to a rest and Calian pulled out the paper that Gus had given him with Nascha’s information of where she could be found. Calian was in disbelief that the one person he had been searching for nearly half his life was suddenly, and closely within reach.

Gus said what the paper said, “A twenty-three year old native woman named Nascha recently moved to East Texas with her husband.”

Calian thought it too good to be true. He asked Gus if he trusted the source. It was someone from Gus’s past, someone who could have shot him when he deserted the buffalo soldiers, but didn’t, so Gus did, in fact, trust him.

“Then we better hurry.” Calian allowed hope to take root. “If I’m chosen as the new chief, I want to lead the whole tribe. The one person missing from it is my sister.” He felt lighter. He was nearing the end of a many years long journey, and it would have a happy ending. He and his sister were going to be reunited. He would be whole again. He was eager to draw this once dark chapter of his life to a close. “Come on.” And he was off again.

They rode for a while longer, when suddenly a homestead appeared on the horizon. A young girl in a yellow dress played in the yard, and then she was joined by a young woman. Nascha. “It’s her.” Calian felt a range of emotion as he looked at them. For so long he believed he needed to save her. She had been taken, and he needed to rescue her.

“Well, you want to go say hi?” Gus was delighted by the outcome and was trying to be encouraging.

Calian said what he’d been thinking. “I thought I was coming here to rescue Nascha. Now that I see her, she does not need saving.” His heart broke in the same instant. “She does not need me.” All his thoughts of her, all these years, his chance to redeem himself, save her, it was not what he thought. She looked happy, and he realized that he put his whole life on hold, until he felt whole again, having found her.

“Calian, if you walk away now, it’ll haunt you for the rest of your life.” Calian weighed his options and looked to Gus for assurance. “Trust me.” 

While he was deliberating, he hadn’t noticed that Nascha had taken notice of him. He heard her calling his name, and his face lit up. He dismounted and then they were both running into one another’s arms. He held her so tight, he was afraid he might break her. He was flooded with emotion, and thought his heart might break free of his chest. His sister was safe, and she was in his arms, after so long apart.

“How did you find me?” Nascha voice was filled with relief and disbelief.

They were both in tears, and in Apache Calian responded, “I never gave up hope.” He touched his forehead to hers, reveling in the moment and reveling in her presence. It was too good to be true. He hugged her to him again, almost afraid to let her go, and she let him. They stood together for a long moment before she invited them inside.

Gus let them go alone. They needed to talk, reconnect. Calian was grateful for his friend’s understanding, and after a passing look between them, Calian followed Nascha into her home.

They sat awkwardly across from one another. It had been so long. So much had happened. It was hard to know where to begin. Calian, in Apache, asked her where she’d been all these years.

She apologized. “I’m sorry, I don’t really remember Apache.”

Calian could understand that, she hadn’t been with her people. “What…what do you remember?”

She remembered the night she went missing – the fire, the people screaming.

He then asked her if she remembered anything before that, like the tribe.

“I remember you.” Her smile was small, and it made Calian smile too.

“Did you ever come looking for me?” He can’t help but wonder if she missed him as he had her.

“I grew up hundreds of miles from here. My parents…”

“Parents?” The word triggered something deep within him. “Who? What parents?”

“The people who raised me as their own when the Comanche left me outside of their town.”

Calian told her the truth, that it was white settlers who hid in costumes to lay blame on the Comanche. She came back with how her parents tried to protect her from her past.

“Did you not want to know where you came from?”

When she was younger, she did question who she was and where she came from. She questioned whether her people had survived that night, whether her brother had. “Wherever we moved, I found the nearest native camp. I said the only sentence I remembered, ‘my name is Nascha’, over and over again. But no one ever understood me. Over time, I just…”

“Forgot.” Calian realized that she’d lived a different life. She’d endured differently from him.

“I had to let go of one world, to be whole in the other.”

Calian was at a loss. Her words were a blow to his soul he couldn’t have expected. He looked around without really seeing, trying to come to terms with how different he thought this visit was going to go. “Are you happy?”

She nodded and smiled. “My husband is a good man, and my daughter,” her smile widened, “she lives without doubt of who she is..and where she belongs in this world.”

“You did it for her.” Calian understood why she had made some of the choices she had.

“Do you have children? Is there someone special in your life?” She was partly teasing him, trying to bring a little levity to their situation, but it gave Calian pause, again.

He knew what he had given up in the pursuit of finding her, but to realize that it was all in vain was almost too much to bear. She had been raised by nice people who had taken good care of her, she had married well and started a family of her own. Calian had been stuck in the past, not willing to allow himself any happiness he didn’t think he deserved. He had made a promise to himself all those years ago, and he had not earned his reward. 

Was there anyone special? His mind turned, as it always did, to Abby. Could he now, released of the obligation he had placed upon himself, pursue something more? Could he pursue his own means of happiness and fulfillment now that he knew his sister was safe and happy?

He said nothing, but sidestepped the entire topic to mention her corn husk doll, which to Calian’s surprise, she did not remember having. “That’s okay.” He was gutted. The woman who sat before him had lived a full life away from him. She may be his sister, but they were strangers. “Just don’t forget…” he finished the sentence in Apache, “Your name is Nascha.”

Calian didn’t think he could take much more. He had expected such a different outcome that he was finding it difficult to accept the reality. Their conversation had been strained, and they hadn’t fallen into the ease and comfortability he had hoped, so after another awkward pause, he suggested that he and Augustus should get back on the road for home. As it was, they would have to make camp as there wasn’t much daylight left.

Nascha encouraged him to visit again, now that they were so close to one another. Calian smiled and hugged her tightly once more, and then he and Gus rode away.

On the ride back, Calian was deep in thought. He had to come to terms with what he’d learned. Gus rode quietly beside him, giving him the time to find closure. Calian was thankful he wasn’t alone, even if neither had anything to say. Augustus’s presence was a comfort.

He’d had Nascha’s ribbon on his saddle, a reminder of her, all this time. He often thumbed it when he wanted to feel close to her, to remember his vow, or even to focus on the task at hand. He couldn’t hold back the tears as he brought the ribbon to his lips and gave himself a moment to say farewell. It was all he could think to do. He finally let the ribbon go to the wind, releasing her and himself from what could only now be looked upon as a burden. That wasn’t the right word, but just then, he couldn’t think of a better one. It had affected every aspect of his life, and it was time to find a new path. It was time to find himself.

They camped when night fell, and still remained quiet. Calian couldn’t bear any conversation as he wasn’t in the right frame of mind to put his thoughts into words. Gus let him grieve, for that was how Calian looked.

When they arrived back at Calian’s camp the next morning, Calian had let Augustus know a little of what he’d been feeling and Gus finally broke his silence. “Calian, I don’t know what to say.” 

“What is there to say?” Calian was still feeling lost, and a little angry. He had never once entertained the idea that Nascha might not need saving. He never thought that she might end up safe somewhere else. Given how the events of that night had transpired, he had only ever thought the worst, but without any hint otherwise, what else could he be left to believe. “I spent half my life living in the shadow of guilt and remorse. Not taking on more here. Not feeling like I deserved a family of my own. I didn’t just lose Nascha, I lost myself looking for her.” 

“You didn’t lose yourself.” Gus retorted, but didn’t have a chance to say more because they were interrupted by one of the tribe’s Elders.

In Apache she apologized and said while he was her choice, the others couldn’t choose a man who “has one foot in the tribe and one foot in town.” 

Gus was left out of the conversation and looked confused by the warriors with rifles and arrows. 

“Is this how the new chief wants to face the Iron Horse?” Calian was surprised by their actions.

“What happened?” Gus asked when he saw Calian’s face.

“The tribe chose a leader who wants to go to war.” 

“A war with who?” 

“The railroad.” Calian was overwhelmed. “First Taza, then Nascha, and now this…” 

“Hey. You’re not alone.” Gus rested a reassuring hand upon his shoulder. “What do you want to do?” 

“Taza believed I could use my relationship with the town. Prevent this, somehow.” 

“Then I know some people we need to go see.” Gus put his hat on, and with Calian in tow, made their way back to their horses.

Despite everything, Calian’s spirit lifted. He knew who Gus meant, and seeing her again was just what he needed.

~ * ~

Chapter Eleven: The Pittsburgh Windmill

Calian and Augustus headed back to town. It was still early, yet, so while they were hitching their horses, Calian was surprised to see Abby already walking about, and he couldn’t keep the joy at seeing her from his tone. “Abby.”

She was surprised, but he found himself disappointed that she didn’t seem pleased to see him. “Calian. I didn’t think I’d see you back so soon.”

There was something different about her, but for some time, he would not know what. Just then, he could only speculate at what had caused the change in her. “Well, a lot has happened. My people are in danger. The railroad’s coming, sooner than we thought, through our camp.” 

Gus added, “They’ve been warned to clear out. If they stay, there will be a war.” 

Abby was more than a little worried at this revelation. 

“And I’ve seen what happens when a small band tries to fight back, which is what the new chief plans to do. Entire camps wiped out. Men, women, children slaughtered.” 

The thought sickened Abby. “I can’t imagine.” She responded as she always would. “What can we do?”

“Nothing. That’s why I’ve come to see the sheriff.” 

“Tom? What does he have to do with any of this?”

“I need to buy some time with the railroad. The men in charge won’t listen to me, but maybe they’ll listen to someone with connections.” 

Gus was not as hopeful. “I tried to tell him, Tom ain’t gonna lift a finger unless there’s something in it for him.” 

Calian had already heard Gus’s concerns, but he couldn’t do nothing. “I don’t care what it takes. I’m not ready to let my people go to war.” 

Abby’s demeanor suggested something else, but she said, “Let me talk to Tom.” Calian saw how Gus gave her a strange look. “He might be more inclined to listen to me.” And then she emphasized, “I want to help.” She looked and sounded as if she were grasping at straws. “If there’s a legal recourse, we should focus on that.” 

Gus still looked at her with doubt.

Calian interjected, “Abby, your laws don’t care about me or my people, but thank you for talking to the sheriff.” He, too, could feel something was off, but he didn’t have the time to figure it out. It would have to wait. And then he saw Hoyt a short distance away. “I’ll find you later.” He rested a hand on Gus’s shoulder as he left. He didn’t reach out to Abby, nor did she reach for him, like she would have before, and so he just walked away from her, unsettled by their interaction.

Calian found Hoyt in the bar, the Side Step, just staring at the wall. “You’re gonna make Lucia jealous, looking at the whiskey like that.” There was something about Hoyt’s laid back attitude, his joking manner that Calian found himself desperate for. There had been so much pain the past few days, that Calian realized that the strange friendship he and Hoyt had developed was actually what he needed.

Hoyt was delighted to see him. “Calian. Been too long.” Hoyt grabbed him into a manly, rough hug, but the moment he got a look at him, Hoyt immediately saw that Calian was burdened. “What? What is it, buddy? Something’s wrong. I can tell.” He was just stating the obvious.

Calian made a head movement that left no misunderstanding that they needed to talk. Hoyt patted him on the shoulder and together they moved further inside.

Calian shared with him all that had happened and what his people were about to face. Hoyt’s solution – rob the train. Something he enjoyed doing.

Some of Calian’s weight had been lifted while in Hoyt’s company. “Maybe we don’t consider a plan that involves robbery.”

Just then a young man entered. Hoyt, being his usual self, offered the kid a glass of milk or a sodey water, to which the kid pulled out his gun. A hold up. Huh. Not what either Calian or Hoyt were expecting so early in the morning. Hoyt continued to condescend to the boy, while Calian tried to take a step closer.

The young-would-be-outlaw took notice and turned the gun on Calian. Hoyt took the opportunity to do one of the things he did pretty well – talk as a means of distraction. Calian gave Hoyt a quick sideways glance, to ensure they were both on the same page, and they were. It didn’t take much effort to get the upper hand on the novice criminal and wrench the gun out of his hand.

Hoyt opened the barrel and let the bullets fall out on to the bar counter, as the kid whined at having been disarmed and embarrassed. “Don’t feel bad, son. I’m doing you a favor. You ain’t ready for this.”

The kid took a step as to reach for his gun. “I am so.”

Calian added his two cents with his calm almost lighthearted tone. “No, you’re not. You should listen to him. It was a bad idea.”

“Now, let’s not come down too hard on the lad. His heart’s in the right place.” Hoyt’s voice had a warmth about it. “You can make a good living as an outlaw. You just need a little guidance.”

Calian nearly rolled his eyes. “Forget what I said, alright. Don’t listen to him.”

Hoyt then offered up tips on how to be a better criminal.

Calian couldn’t believe it. “Hoyt, you realize he’s just a kid.”

“That’s a good point, Calian.” He sounded genuine. And then he offered another tip. The kid was surprised at Hoyt’s kindness, and then Hoyt gave him his reason. “Well, you remind me of me when I was young, I guess.”

Calian just shook his head, still leaning casually against the bar. “In that case kid, you’re gonna want to find yourself a better mentor.” The kid tried, this time, to grab the bullets, but Calian just slapped his hand away, like you would with a small child. Shaking his head, he said, “Don’t press your luck.”

Hoyt waved the young man off, still smiling. When Calian saw the smile, all he could say was, “Seriously?”

“I like that kid.” Given everything that had happened to Calian recently, the encounter with the future outlaw had been a surprisingly pleasant diversion…because of Hoyt’s good nature, and odd spin of the situation.

Calian left Hoyt, found Augustus and, together, made their way to the sheriff’s office. When they opened the door, they discovered Abby, lost in thought and surrounded by books. “You speak to the sheriff?” 

“I did. He doesn’t believe there’s anything he can do, but I’m not giving up.” She was determined, and Calian moved to stand beside her. He wanted to feel her warmth, feel like they were in this together. And then she did what she had always done, she touched him, in her gentle, small way. She let her hand run down his forearm, and Calian could breathe a little better. Things were starting to feel, somewhat, normal again. “None of us are.” 

“What is all this?”

Both Abby and Gus gave Calian a little insight into a strange technicality the US government exploited in regards to personal property for public use – eminent domain. They could always take whatever they wanted when they wanted, without recourse. It was then that Calian said something about his tribe’s land that struck Abby. “It could be anywhere for all they know.”

“Well…what if we convince them to build somewhere else?” 

Calian looked between them, admiring her quick, clever mind.

Abby and Gus left Calian to see the map of town and the surrounding area at the US Land office. Abby was sure there was a solution to be found there. Afterward, she would find Kate and they would all meet up again at the Side Step and hash out a plan.

Calian stood in the middle of his newfound family, a little bewildered how he had come to this place. He and Gus had long been friends, but now he was taken with a white woman he hoped to court, had become the unlikely ally of an outlaw with whom he knew he could trust his life, and a former Pinkerton agent who was led by her heart. His life’s choices had led him to an interesting place. 

Abby started. “I know we haven’t exactly seen eye to eye lately, but I’m asking you to set aside your differences for the moment. Calian needs our help.” They made eye contact, and shared an unspoken understanding. 

Hoyt joined in, “So, we’re getting the gang back together? This calls for a drink.” He was a bit too excited about the prospect and popped the cork out of a bottle while the others looked on, shaking their heads.

They laid out their plan – a switcheroo – which confused Hoyt. He was afraid the “show” they were about to put on might involve dancing. “No, you sweet, simple man, no. Think of it like a con.” Kate explained. “Separate. Impersonate.” She continued that Hoyt would pretend to be the railroad executive.

Hoyt mentioned that his history of robbing trains would be an asset. No one agreed.

Abby added then that Kate would become the Land Office agent.

Once Hoyt understood, he slapped his hand upon the bar. “It’s the ol’ Pittsburgh Windmill.” He offered up a story in which he had swindled some hi-rollers in a dice game.

“Hoyt, don’t list your crimes in front of me. I still am the deputy.” Gus was only half serious.

Hoyt countered, “Well, for a lawman, this doesn’t exactly sound on the up and up.”

“Kicking people out of their homes, does that seem on the ‘up and up’ to you?” Gus didn’t appreciate that what he was taking part in was in any way wrong.

Calian finally joined the conversation. “All right, look. I get it, but this is still my problem. I need to be part of the solution.” 

Abby reassured him. “You are. You have an essential role to play. Two, in fact.” 

He was still not quite himself, and it showed, but he said, “Then I’m in. Whatever it takes.” Hoyt gave him a pat on the shoulder to be encouraging.

They set their plan into action. 

Kate dressed in the suit she had had made when she mocked their new town sheriff, while Hoyt borrowed one from the undertaker. They each met with their target and got down to the con.

Calian’s part was to intercept Hoyt, as the railroad exec, and start a fight. The documents they needed to alter would be grabbed in the scuffle. Somehow, Hoyt didn’t pull his punch and clocked Calian in the forehead for real with a backward elbow jab, while Abby called for the deputy to sell the deception. The agent, who happened to be a racist, made some cruel remarks that Calian’s people were getting “what they deserved”, which triggered Calian.

He grabbed the man by his coat and shoved him up against a railing while he used his low, threatening voice. “No one deserves what’s happening to us.”

Hoyt and Gus pulled him off the man and then Gus dragged Calian away. Calian was apologetic, almost fearful, that he may have jeopardized the plan, and Gus conceded that had he not been wearing a badge, he would have done the same thing. Gus showed him the document pouch they had been able to obtain. “Looks like you did just fine to me. Come on.” 

It made Calian smile. So far, so good.

Back at the sheriff’s office, Gus directed Calian, and himself, on what to alter on the documents. When Calian asked what they should do, should the sheriff return, Gus’s response made Calian do a double take. “I don’t care and neither should you.” As Calian sorted through the paperwork, Gus threw him a handkerchief. “Clean yourself. Don’t bleed on the papers.”

Calian hadn’t noticed he was bleeding, but he wasn’t surprised. “Ah, Hoyt.” 

Calian then made his way to the next meeting, where Kate, as the Land Office agent, greeted him warmly and introduced him to the real railroad exec. “This is Calian. He’s our Apache representative.” 

The man wouldn’t even shake Calian’s hand. “Call me Mr. Smith. Always glad to have someone like you lend a hand. Not like we need it. Progress is coming regardless of what your people want.” Calian and Kate made eye contact during the man’s crude speech, and couldn’t help but share a moment at the small mindedness of such people. “Frankly, if there were more forward-thinking savages like yourself, things wouldn’t have to get so messy.” Every word was an insult. 

“Well, having seen what I’ve seen, I wonder who the real savages are.”

Kate chuckled and Calian sat down to join them. That’s when she saw Abby enter with the real Land Office agent. She excused herself and met Abby at the bar. Calian watched, wondering what had brought them all together in the same location. That wasn’t part of the plan.

Once Kate returned, the papers were presented and Mr. Smith noticed a small difference in the lot number. Kate did her best to divert his attention at how long a delay they might encounter should they go back to the government for authorization.

Calian then added, “We wouldn’t want to stand in the way of progress, would we?” His tone was laced with snark.

After their business was concluded, Mr. Smith offered to shake Calian’s hand. Calian treated the man as he had been treated, with nothing, and then walked away.

From there, Kate had to get the papers back into the Land Office agent’s satchel, which she almost succeeded at. She got caught, but Hoyt interceded by swooping Kate into his arms for a dance. Kate laughed, unbeknownst to Hoyt, he did end up dancing. Actually, the whole day had been a dance of sorts, but finally, the documents were signed and Abby left to file them and make the whole deal official.

They had succeeded in their con, despite a few scrapes. Hoyt even offered an apology for accidentally clocking Calian during their ‘fight’. 

“Thank you.” Calian began, not able to look at any of them directly, but gave them each a passing glance all the same. “All of you, really. This bought me time. I should get back though. Discuss things with my people.” 

Hoyt also had to go and clean up his bar after the fight he had had. He made mention that none of them wanted to see Lucia when she was upset.

As Calian motioned to leave, he pulled Kate aside to tell her about his interaction with Kai from earlier. She thanked him while he continued out the door. He knew he should have taken Abby outside, spent a moment with her alone to thank her for her part in saving his people, but he couldn’t. Something was nagging at him from earlier, and after the day they had all had, he just wanted to share the good news with those that desperately needed it. 

And so he left. 

Without a word.

Outside, Calian found Hoyt waiting for him. “So what happens now?”

They walked together to Calian’s horse. “Now I talk to the elders, the new chief. Try to find a lasting solution that doesn’t end in bloodshed.”

“Anything else you need, you let me know. I’ll be there.”

“Thank you, Hoyt.”

“Of course. Happy to help.” And then he used the same words Calian had once said to him. “You needed it, after all.” They shared a smile before Calian rode off.

It was growing dark, and Calian knew by the time he arrived home, it would be too late to bring the news of his success, thanks to his friends, to the elders. It would have to wait until morning. He wasn’t sure he’d be able to sleep, excited as he was. He had only made it a short way when he heard gun shots echo through the valley. He’d find out soon enough what it all meant.

~ * ~

Chapter Twelve: How We Got Here

Calian woke up early and met with the Elders. He shared with them what he and his friends had been able to accomplish, and the gift of time they had been given against the railroad because of their efforts. The Elders were beyond pleased that his relationship with certain individuals in town had helped them avert a fight. Calian wasn’t sure how happy the new chief would be, considering he had been itching for war. 

Calian decided to ride back into town after his meeting since he had been troubled all night after hearing the gunshots ring out. It had left him unsettled, and even though he had no reason to think otherwise, he thought Augustus might need his help, and so he rode back with purpose.

As he galloped towards town, he remembered when he and Augustus had first met, before they knew each other’s names, back when they were on opposite sides of another war. Calian was a native. Augustus was one of the buffalo soldiers, so called because the men in that regiment had hair that resembled the animals that used to roam free on the land. 

Calian had seen one of those soldiers limp to a hiding spot among the trees. He stalked him, in the hopes he could finish the job he had started. What he found was a man, writing a letter, with an arrow in his leg. 

His arrow.

He notched another one, preparing to let it fly, when he saw the soldier raise his hands in surrender. He was surprised to discover that the man had resigned himself to accept his fate, but asked that he be allowed to finish his letter. “Who are you writing to?” He was pretty sure the soldier was caught off guard by his use of English.

“Family, back home in Louisiana.” 

Calian found the southern drawl, and something about the soldier’s vulnerability, a little endearing. It caused him to falter. “I’ve always wanted to go there.”

“Why is that?”

“I heard the food was good.”

The soldier nodded and smiled as he thought about his home and the cooking he hadn’t had in a good while, and then he actually chuckled at his circumstances. “This arrow, it ain’t yours by any chance?”

Calian maintained his ready position. “Might be.”

“Hmm.” The soldier knew he was out of time. “Fighting over?”

“For now. But you always come back.” Calian’s words were laced with fatigue at having to fight the same men time and time again.

“I’m not them.” Calian gave the soldier a disbelieving look even as he continued. “I couldn’t carry out my orders. I’m done. And I don’t know what to do now.” He gestured to the arrow in his leg. “Not that it matters.” He looked defeated.

There was something in the man’s words, in the manner of his being that made Calian drop his guard. He lowered his weapon and took a step forward. “You can leave. Go back to your family.”

“Those men in uniforms don’t take to kindly to deserters.” He sighed deeply. “If I go back now, I put my family at risk.”

Calian turned his head, offering an alternative. “Then head the other way. Further west.”

“That an invite?” 

Calian could tell the man was trying to use a little humor to deflect from his pain and suffering. “If you need one.” Calian watched as the man’s eyes grew wide in wonder. He was in his own disbelief, so when Calian whistled and his horse appeared, the man nearly jumped out of his skin. He was in a state of bewilderment and he couldn’t hide his doubt that a way out of his current predicament might be possible.

Calian helped the man onto his horse and led him away from his regiment to a place he would be safe, to a place where he might heal, and find himself again.

Calian’s tribe gave the soldier strange looks upon his arrival. They gave Calian strange looks as well, wondering at why he thought it a good idea to bring such a man into their camp. Calian ignored it all. 

First thing first, they had to remove the arrow from the man’s leg. Once the wound had been cleaned and bandaged, and the soldier had had a little time to recover, Calian helped him outside while he went to speak with the Elders to discuss the possibility of the soldier staying.

As Calian left him, he gave him a backwards glance to see what he might do in Calian’s absence. He saw the man sort of fold in on himself. He was trying to make himself smaller, be less conspicuous.

It took a little convincing that the soldier was no longer a threat, but Calian was persuasive, and after a ‘not as lengthy’ a discussion as he expected, the Elders agreed that, under supervision, the former soldier would be allowed to stay. He would not only have to prove himself an ally, but make himself useful, once he was healed, as well.

Calian wasn’t exactly happy, but he was pleased that he had been able to give the man a second chance. There had been something Calian had seen in the soldier when he thought he was at his end. There had been a grace and a calmness that resonated with Calian. It’s why he had made the decision to help him.

When Calian returned to share with him the good news, he saw that the soldier was holding a book. Calian wondered at what such a man might find worthy of carrying with him into battle. He would have to remember to ask him about it later. The now-retired-soldier was grateful to Calian and the tribe for their help, and then he used a word Calian didn’t understand – sanctuary.

When the man realized that Calian didn’t know the word, he was kind enough to explain. “It’s a place you go to find peace. It’s safe.”

Calian nodded as he said firmly, “Teach me more of those words.”

The man smiled wide and motioned to stand, but he was shaky, so Calian reached out and offered him a steady hand.

“Long as you teach me some of yours.”

They stood looking at one another with new eyes. “I’m Calian.”

“Augustus.”

And so their friendship began.

Weeks passed and Augustus found small ways to aid the people and the camp until he was fully able to move without help. He was given his own tent, and one day, when Calian entered, he found Augustus making arrows. “Hey. Thought I’d make myself useful by making the weapon that got me.”

Calian took note of the joy in Augustus’s voice. He had found a measure of peace while surrounded by people who had once looked at him with fear and distrust, but he had proven himself, just as he said he would. 

But Calian had received bad news that he then had to share with his new friend.

Gus was still chuckling to himself when he saw Calian’s face. “Calian, what’s wrong?”

“I have some news.” Calian couldn’t hide his sorrow.

Gus’s jovial attitude quickly turned. “From town?”

“From the sheriff who’s been mailing your letters. He received a message from Louisiana.” With a heavy heart, Calian handed the folded paper to Gus.

“From my family?” Gus was delighted at the thought, but as his eyes skimmed over the words, the air in the tent shifted.

Calian didn’t leave him, but he did take a step away to allow Augustus a quiet moment. When Calian had received the message, both he and the sheriff, Otis had discussed its contents. Calian had ridden back to camp in a sadness he didn’t know he could feel for another.

Gus’s tears came quickly, and Calian did not avert his gaze as Gus fell apart. He was with him. Calian wanted him to know he wasn’t alone.

Augustus grieved, but not for long. He had quickly set his mind to how he could make everything right. He told Calian that he meant to turn himself in for desertion, and would face the consequences of his actions. He felt guilty. Had he followed his orders, he may have gone home, and averted the accident that took his wife from him.

But Calian had other thoughts.

While Gus was still mourning, Calian rode to town and met with the sheriff again. He persuaded Otis to consider offering Augustus the position of deputy sheriff, as a means of atonement, and an opportunity to start a new life, which was how many people saw the town of Independence. A fresh start.

After Otis heard of Gus’s character and deeds, he agreed.

Calian didn’t ride with Augustus when he rode into town to surrender himself, but he did arrive shortly thereafter, so he could watch a new man emerge.

~ * ~

Chapter Thirteen: Let Him Hang

Calian arrived back to town shortly after dawn. He first heard Abby’s voice echoing across the still mostly empty streets. “Someone help. It’s Gus.” And then he saw her riding in slowly from the opposite side of town with a slumped over Augustus with her. “Someone get the doctor. The deputy’s been shot.” Calian quickened his pace.

Kate and Hoyt were already standing outside the sheriff’s office. Calian barely saw Tom and the state he was in, because as soon as he was within reach of Gus, he was off his horse, and with Hoyt’s help, taking Gus inside.

It was a flurry of action after that. 

Abby swept the sheriff’s desk clear of its belongings and ushered them to place Gus upon it. Kate tried to get the onlookers out of the way while Kai rushed in. Each of them shared what they knew. Gus had been shot in the shoulder hours before, and he had a wound on the back of his head. Abby directed Hoyt to bring water while the women ripped their petticoats for bandages. Kai discovered there was no exit wound for the bullet which meant it was still lodged within him.

The whole time, Calian and the others whispered reassuring words to their friend.

While everyone was fairly level-headed, given the circumstances, Hoyt on the other hand was not handling the pressure well. Maybe it was the blood. Some people weren’t good with the sight of it, so when Kai ordered everyone to hold Gus down, because he needed to dig the bullet out, Hoyt looked a little queasy. 

Hoyt offered Gus a drink from his flask, to which Gus refused, he never drank, even if the moment might warrant it. But he could barely speak, so Calian spoke for him, and Hoyt took the drink instead.

Calian, himself, was on edge. Seeing his friend’s life hanging in the balance because of what they could do for him was an uncomfortable feeling. They were all heavily relying on Kai’s knowledge, which none of them fully knew. It was all based on trust, something Calian found hard to give, but understood it was necessary just then. It didn’t seem anyone else was up to the task.

Abby, on the other hand was quite calm, directing as needed, and supportive. Calian was proud of her, and grateful, and when they could share a moment alone, he would be sure to tell her.

Gus moaned and his whole body convulsed in pain. It must have been near torture to feel Kai digging in his shoulder.

And then relief.

Kai recovered the bullet. 

And it was then that Kai looked as if he might come undone. His nerves finally made themselves known, and his whole body shook with the realization of what he had just accomplished. He was responsible for saving Gus’s life.

But the bleeding didn’t stop.

Calian knew of one way. They would have to burn the wound. “I’ve done it before.” He stated casually, as if it weren’t the outlandish revelation that it actually was. He reached for a red hot poker from the stove, while everyone looked at him with unease. 

Hoyt was vocal about his fear, but it had to be done. Kate wrapped a stick with some of her petticoat for Gus to bite down on.

Hoyt paced. “I’m gonna need to sit down.”

If the situation hadn’t been so dire, Calian might have laughed then.

The others worked in tandem to hold Gus down, while Kate put the bite stick in his mouth and uttered reassuring words.

Calian placed a hand on Augustus and looked him in the eyes while he said, “I’m sorry, old friend.”

And then there was the sound.

It could only be described as a sizzle. 

And the smell…

It was all horrible, and Gus cried out.

When Calian was done, and the stress subsided, he and Abby made eye contact. He sighed deeply, and turned away, taking a moment for himself.

Augustus had passed out, and the whole room held its breath until Kai declared the bleeding had stopped. There was a collective sigh of relief. Calian noticed that Abby was distracted by a conversation between Kai and Tom, but none of them could hear what was said, so he brought her attention back to Gus by asking her to help him dress the wound.

Hoyt praised Kai’s efforts and handed him his flask. Kai took a big swig, and then Kate offered him her support as well. He had done an amazing job. Better than any of them could have asked for.

Tom had left the office, and shortly thereafter, after having spoken with Kai, Kate followed him.

Kate hadn’t been gone long when Gus regained consciousness.

As he had done for Abby, Calian was sure that his friend woke up to a kind face. Abby and Hoyt, too, remained at Gus’s side. Calian’s voice was nearly breathless when he said, “Augustus” so relieved as he was at his friend’s recovery.

“Thank God. You’re safe. It’s okay.” Abby continued to be positive.

“Yeah,” Hoyt drawled out, “I knew he’d pull through.”

“Just get your rest, all right? We can all talk later.”

Kai returned, so Abby took a step back, taking Gus’s hand in the process. Kai suggested changing the bandage again, and that’s when Abby found the broken handcuff on Gus’s wrist.

“Handcuffs? What the hell?” Hoyt looked as surprised as he sounded.

Abby’s face changed with revelation. “Tom had the same bruising on his wrist.”

“You saying Gus tried to handcuff the sheriff?”

“He never trusted him. That’s why he went to the Davidson ranch.” Abby was taken aback.

“What are you saying, Abby?” Calian never failed at a chance to say her name, and he never failed to be surprised with how quickly her mind worked.

“Block all the roads out of town. Wagons, carts, whatever you can find.” Her mind was whirling. “Kai, can you stay with Gus?”

“Yeah, of course.”

Abby headed to the gun cabinet, and Hoyt started after her. “What’re you gonna do?”

“Something I should’ve done a long time ago.” She tossed a gun to Hoyt before taking one for herself.

And then there were gunshots.

Townspeople screamed and ran to find shelter. Calian, Abby, and Hoyt went into action.

Calian took a high position to get his bearings and be more effective with his bow. What he saw was Tom running haphazardly down the main street with Kate shooting at him from the balcony at Hagan’s. 

It was a good ol’ fashioned shoot out.

Calian loosed an arrow to free the horses so they wouldn’t get injured in the crossfire, but then he loosed another to put Tom exactly where he wanted him, pinned down with little opportunity for escape.

Calian’s blood rushed with the thrill of the hunt. His arrows struck hard with purpose, so close to finding their target. Tom’s shooting, on the other hand, was inconsistent and chaotic as he continued to duck and cover his way down the street, so Calian never would have guessed that one of his bullets would find him, and yet it did.

It caught him by surprise, and losing his balance, he fell off the roof.

“Calian!” Hoyt’s fear-filled yell echoed.

Then more determined gunshots rang out, followed by more words from Hoyt, who’s temper was getting the better of him. He became careless, and as he called out for Tom to face him, Hoyt found himself out of ammo. Calian was already back up, the wound was superficial, and witnessed the standoff Hoyt was trying to produce, but when Tom took aim, Calian jumped and tackled Hoyt.

Tom took the reprieve as a chance to run.

Hoyt reloaded quickly and was back up and shooting. Tom looked like a cornered animal, with all doors barred shut to him, but he was a better shot than anyone gave him credit for, because he got Hoyt in the leg when he popped up from behind a trough.

Hoyt went down on one knee. With a slight limp, Calian, with Kate’s help, got Hoyt out of the street, and then a new shooter entered the fight.

Abby.

She was a surprisingly good shot. She walked brazenly down the center of the street and, in addition to telling people to take cover, she listed Tom’s crimes, each punctuated with a shot.

Calian noticed that Tom didn’t really aim for Abby, so when he tried to run again, she was able to stand firm, and she nicked him in the shoulder.

Tom ducked behind the wheel of one of the wagons at the end of the street, meant to block his escape. Abby said, “It doesn’t have to end this way.” to which Tom replied, “I think it does.”

And then he came out of hiding. Approached her for a stand-off. And Calian saw that Abby didn’t flinch. 

Calian’s heart was suddenly in his throat. It’s not that he thought she couldn’t win, but Tom had already proven a good shot and he was holding a six-shooter, while Abby was holding a longer, slower weapon, a rifle. But she stood firm, and Calian wouldn’t interfere, he knew Abby was looking for justice.

As they each raised their weapon, it was as if time slowed down, and Calian knew in that moment, Tom was going to have the upper hand. Abby might not die, but she would not be the victor. It was among one of the worst moments Calian would witness, that after everything he had already lost, he might now lose the woman he loved.

He didn’t want to watch, but he also couldn’t turn away. Even if she didn’t know it, Abby had his full support.

But then there was another shot, and Tom got hit in the shoulder.

Calian hadn’t realized he had stopped breathing, but he took a shaky breath and saw Augustus, gun in hand. He was up, and had taken matters into his own hands, but the exertion left him weak, and he slumped against a post.

Abby stood over Tom, who clutched his shoulder in pain, and with words Calian couldn’t hear, she used the butt of the gun and knocked him out.

While he was unconscious, they patched him up. Abby didn’t want him to die of his wounds, she wanted him to be held responsible for his actions, and so while some didn’t agree, they did continue to help.

They locked Tom in one of the cells and waited for him to wake up. While they did, they tended to their own wounds. It wasn’t long after, that Tom stirred, and Abby asked to speak with him alone. No one wanted to leave her with him, but they all knew it was time she got some answers for why her husband had been murdered and she had been left for dead. 

Abby’s life could have been very different in Independence, had it not been for Tom Davidson, and so they all gave her some space to learn the truth from the only person who could give it to her. The moment they were outside, Hoyt and Gus had their ears plastered to the door in the hopes they would catch a tidbit of what was being said.

They couldn’t.

They didn’t have to wait for long. Abby soon reemerged, looking pale and holding a notebook that she handed to Gus. Kate asked if he had confessed, and Abby could barely utter a word in the affirmative. She walked past them, looking like a woman crushed by the burden of truth, and vomited.

Calian watched her movements, she was stiff and yet uneasy. He wanted to go to her, but he gave her the time she needed to process what she had learned. There would be time for them, soon.

It would take a few days to arrange for Tom to be taken out of town by Texas Rangers to Austin to stand trial, so Calian headed home in the down time to ensure all was well. He regretted that he didn’t get to see Tom walk in shame in shackles to meet his fate. He arrived shortly thereafter, to the chaos that ensued after a message was written on one of the walls of town offering a huge reward to the one that freed Tom. 

Immediately the four of them were off.

Calian and Hoyt grabbed their horses but unfortunately, Kate didn’t know how to ride, so she and Abby rode in a wagon. It was slow and cumbersome along the dirt road, but would be a good place to keep Tom when and if they found him.

As they rode out of town, Abby suggested Calian and Hoyt split up and ride ahead to try to intercept Tom’s stagecoach. When they finally did find it, it was left abandoned off the road in a ditch. 

The horses were gone, the driver was dead, and Tom was nowhere to be found.

They returned to town, a bit defeated, but Abby was convinced that there would be those who would help them. She would send telegrams, lots of them, and hopefully, someone would come through.

Calian didn’t like the idea of that man running free.  He was fixated with Abby, and he had proven that he was willing to do anything to get his way.  Calian would have to remain vigilant until Tom was captured.  He didn’t want any of them to be taken by surprise, and he didn’t want Abby in that man’s dangerous sights again.  His eyes would now continually be leveled on the horizon.

They all planned to meet at Kai’s for a celebratory meal and to honor Augustus and his new promotion. They had survived the fight, they had, initially, caught the bad guy, and in time, justice would be served.

Calian was not in the mood to celebrate. While he wanted Abby to get her vengeance, he had hoped they could use the Davidson family’s influence to intercede on the tribe’s behalf with the railroad. Calian didn’t know how he was going to have made that happen, but they were the only people from that corner of society that he knew that may have had enough power to sway events in the favor of his people.

So he kept himself apart from the others. He stood in a dark corner, sullen, and while Abby noticed, the others distracted her with their joyful attitudes.

Kate sang them a song while they waited for Augustus to join them; one she had been longing to sing that included snippets she found positive about each of her new friends. When she was done, Calian realized that Gus had still not arrived, and while the others toasted one another, he slipped out. 

He got on his horse and found Gus just a short distance from town.

Augustus was somber. So was Calian. They spoke plainly about their positions, and it was then that Calian could finally vocalize his fear. He knew Gus would understand. The new chief still wanted war, and that was not something Calian wanted to see – the suffering of his people.

They sat together in silence for a while, both wondering at how they would move forward.

~ * ~

Chapter Fourteen: Family of Misfits

Calian remained out of Independence for a tenday after the shoot out with Tom and his subsequent disappearance from custody. He had planned on checking in with everyone, okay, that was a lie, since there was really only one person on his mind most of the time, but in one of the two visits he had had with Augustus, he learned of Tom’s confession, and decided against it for a bit longer.

It was a disturbing account. And while he was growing desperate to see Abby again, he wanted to give her time to properly mourn her husband’s death now that she had the knowledge of why it happened. She had finally discovered the truth of it all.

She had always been right about her attacker, even though she had had a moment’s doubt with the appearance of Tom’s brother, but now she knew they had both been involved, and Calian knew that would take time to…what was the word Augustus had used? Compartmentalize.

He couldn’t have known that his absence would be a further pain until one day, a young scout spotted her on the ridge and rushed to tell Calian. “Djon-deh-zee.” He whispered breathless.

Calian’s whole body rushed with pleasure in response.

As quick as ever, he was on his horse and meeting her before she had even cleared the ridge. 

He was anxious to see her, but he also wanted to be with her alone without the eyes and ears of his camp. He tried his best to calm his nerves. He didn’t want to sound as nervous as he felt. He had been anticipating their reunion for days, wondering at how they might proceed with their friendship, wondering if they could be more. He thought to himself that one look at her, when he saw her again, would tell him everything he needed to know.

What he saw on her face was a look that was a mixture of relief, pain, and anger.

“Abby, is everything all right?” He was concerned that something may have happened in his absence. Maybe something even Augustus didn’t know about.

“I just came to see for myself that you were well, despite Gus’s reassurance, given that you’ve purposefully stayed away from town this last week.” Her voice held that East Coast haughtiness she liked to use as a cover for her discomfort.

There was a sliver of doubt in Calian’s mind that once the mystery surrounding the events of her husband’s death were solved, she might not need him anymore. So he braved to ask, to finally settle that in his mind. “Well, your case is closed, so to speak. I wasn’t certain you would have further need of me.”

She scoffed, and her face contorted with disbelief and wry humor. “I thought you were smarter than that.” And with that, she turned her horse to leave.

She was justified in her anger, and he found himself deeply pleased that she was because that meant that they were friends, and he wasn’t just a means to an end. Her horse had only taken a few steps when he called out, “Wait. Wait.” Her horse stopped, but she did not turn. Calian rode up and faced her. “I’m sorry, Abby. That was unfair.”

She looked at him with tears in her eyes. “So you thought I was using you? All this time?”

His heart lurched at seeing her hurt. “No. I was just scared our friendship had a time limit.” And that was the heart of it. He still didn’t truly believe someone like her and someone like him could sustain any kind of relationship beyond one that served a specific need.

“Have I not made it clear to you what you mean to me? Have my looks or my touches not conveyed how I feel? How important you are? I miss you when you are gone, when you are not near me…and the only thing I’ve wanted to know all week, now that my ‘case was closed’,” she said sarcastically, “was how we were going to combine our two worlds?”

Calian didn’t have words to describe his feelings. It was like he couldn’t breathe, and his heart had plummeted, and there was a heat in his belly, and further south still, he yearned for something he did not yet know. “Abby.” Her name was an emotion filled whisper. Finally, this was the moment he had been waiting for. He leaned forward, took her face in his hands, and lost himself for a moment in her eyes.

Her face softened, and he felt the love she had for him in that look. “Calian…kiss me.” He needed no further encouragement.

It started soft and slow. He had longed to know what it would be like to touch her like this, intimately, as if they were meant only for one another, but it was a little awkward with both of them on horseback. He wasn’t experienced in the ways the white people shared their affection, so he let Abby guide them, and as she deepened the kiss, parting his lips with her tongue, his whole body reacted and he sighed, leaning in further.

“Is there somewhere we can go?” She asked as she reluctantly pulled away from him.

His head was swirling. He could barely think clearly. She wanted him to take her somewhere. Where? Oh, she wanted them to be free of constraint. No horses. No tribe. No townspeople. Somewhere where they would be free. He swallowed hard, looking at her with heavy lids. “I know of a place.” His voice sounded husky, laced with desire. A desire so consuming he wasn’t sure how to satiate it. “Follow me.” He adjusted himself in his saddle, and took a deep breath to focus.

He looked around, getting his bearings, and gathered himself, before setting off. Abby rode beside him, but they remained quiet. Calian was afraid to speak. He wasn’t sure what to say and he was fearful that anything he did might break the spell. His body was wound tight. He was aware of every part, which made him uncomfortable, and every sensation felt new.

When he felt brave enough to look in Abby’s direction, he discovered she was looking at him. She was…bemused. It was as if she knew what to expect from him and found the whole thing amusing. It took seeing her reaction to finally release the tension he was holding. He smiled at her in return, and then they both laughed.

“I have missed you.” Her eyes were pleading.

He reached over and took her hand. “I wanted to give you space to grieve the life you lost.”

“And because you were scared of what might happen to us?”

He nodded. “Since the moment our eyes met, you changed me. You gave me hope for a life I didn’t believe I deserved, one I didn’t believe I could have.” 

She squeezed his hand. “Calian, you are the kindest, bravest, and most loyal person I’ve ever known. You deserve whatever your heart desires, and more.”

Calian stopped their horses so he could look fully at her face. “I desire you. I desire a life with you.” His breath stopped then. He wasn’t sure he had ever said anything so bold, so he wasn’t sure what her response might be. He watched as his words sunk in.

Tears welled in her eyes, but she smiled wide. “Then you shall have it.” And then she laughed. “I’m so relieved. Kate thought I might have misread your interest.”

They continued on. “You discussed this with Kate?”

“You must understand, one of women’s favorite topics of discussion is men. A sad fact, but true. She thought you only held some regard for me as a guardian, since you were the one to find me on the prairie. As if I were your responsibility.”

He scoffed. “When did you believe otherwise?” Calian had been smitten with Abby since the moment he laid eyes on her, but true affection…it had been slow, no, that was another lie. He had felt the stirring of something deep within himself from the start. 

“The morning after I took the job at the sheriff’s office. You came to check on me. I can still feel your fingertips upon my skin, but then you grew distant. Do you remember?”

“I was feeling guilty for ignoring my duties at home, because I wanted to remain by your side.”

“I know. You said some hurtful things, but I understood immediately that you were unhappy because you were tearing yourself in two. I hated to see you like that.”

They arrived at a small lake, not unlike the one she and Hoyt had stopped at on their trip not so long ago. It was surrounded by large, overgrown trees that offered shade and a romantic ambiance that delighted Abby. Calian smiled as he came around to help her down from her horse. Abby took the opportunity to slide seductively down his body, and then they were standing before one another. 

He was nervous.

“This on the other hand, I like seeing.” She continued.

His body flushed again. He had absolutely no control on how it reacted to her proximity. He swallowed hard, again. “I don’t know what to do.” He offered lamely.

She lifted a hand to his cheek and stroked her thumb across his eyebrow as if to erase his worry. “What do you want to do?” She asked cheekily.

He raised an eyebrow in response, took her by the hand, and led her to the shade of the closest tree. He rested against it and wrapped his arms around her, holding her close to him so that he could almost rest his chin upon her head as they looked out to the water. He just wanted to know what it would be like to be with her, uninhibited. He bent his head toward her ear and whispered, “What do you want me to do?” He could see her pulse thumping in the vein in her neck, and he felt compelled to bite it. 

Abby gasped in surprise and desire. She turned in his embrace and gave him one of her serious looks, although there was a twinkle in her eye. “What I want is for you to kiss me as you’ve wanted to since…” She scrunched her face as she bit back whatever she was going to say.

He looked at her curiously. “When are you thinking?”

“It was the most dreadful day…”

“Francis.” He knew the moment.

“Yes. When the brick crashed through the window, you took me into your arms to protect me, and I was certain you were going to kiss me.”

“I wanted to. It didn’t feel appropriate, but also, I didn’t want to go into the next world knowing what I was leaving behind.”

“And now?” Her face was flush, and she was breathless.

“I want to know every inch of you.” Calian’s desire to taste her again made his mouth dry, his fingers twitch, and his stomach drop. 

He had barely uttered the last word when her mouth was on his. There was no time for sweetness, they were desperate now. She urged his mouth open and when her tongue stroked against his, he moaned. He let her lead again. She had more experience in this, and she knew what would bring them both pleasure. She wrapped a hand around the nape of his neck and tugged gently on his hair, and the only thing he could think to do was grab handfuls of her dress in his hands to hold her to him. 

What he wanted to do was tear the whole thing apart in order to feel her flesh against his.

His body grew taught, and it jerked when he felt her other hand find its way under his shirt to graze his stomach, but then she maneuvered it between his breeches to stroke him. His whole body shuddered and he gasped.

“Have you ever been with a woman?” She pulled back to look at him as her one hand continued its ministrations.

His mind whirled again with sensation. He could barely hear her over the thudding of his heart and the rushing of blood through every nerve in his body. Never had he felt anything like this. “Until I learned the fate of my sister, I denied myself any pleasure.”

“How lucky I am to be the first to watch you come undone.”

The pressure around his length increased as did the pace. His head fell back against the tree, his breaths shallow and uneven. “Abby.” It was a plea. And then his hips bucked forward of their own volition.

“Just follow the sensation, love.” She leaned forward and kissed his neck and up to his jawline. Once his earlobe was in reach, she sucked it and received another moan and full body spasm for her effort.              

He looked down at her through lust filled eyes. “I want you to share in this.”

Her smile was almost devious. “Oh, believe me, I am.” She found his mouth once more, and nearly matching rhythm, she kissed and stroked until his knees buckled and he stuttered. He had longed to weave his hands through her copper waves, and as his ecstasy rose and he found himself chasing sensation, he plunged his hands into her hair and held her tight.

Calian was torn from going over the edge of desire and wanting it to continue. The feeling was primal, instinctual, and he knew this was only a fraction of what they could do together. He didn’t know much, but he knew there were great, varied pleasures to be explored.

As he thought of Abby in a similar situation, his hands and mouth giving her the same joy, he found his end. There was no prolonging it once he imagined her face contorted in pleasure, his name a breathless prayer upon her lips. He rested his forehead against hers as waves of bliss continued to roll through his body.

His heart was pounding, and when he opened his eyes, he was greeted by Abby’s unflinching gaze. Her face was soft, her eyes inquisitive, and there was a small smile upon her lips. She kissed him sweetly and then took a step back to look at him fully. She sighed, content.

Calian looked down, a little embarrassed. He also felt a little selfish for having been the only one to find such gratification. He ran a hand through his hair and adjusted his clothes.

“What’s wrong?” Abby’s voice was timid, and she was never timid. “Did you not enjoy that?”

His eyes snapped up. “Of course I did. It’s just…it was…” What was it exactly? A taste? A glimpse at the glorious future they would have together? “Why did you do that for me?” 

She understood before he did. She was nearly always a step ahead of him. “Because I wanted to. And because you needed it. You told me yourself you’ve denied yourself any pleasure, and this was something I could do for you, a moment I could give you that was yours alone. Well, not entirely alone. It gave me a great deal of satisfaction to watch my brave warrior writhe in pleasure.”

His smile was sheepish. “Thank you.”

She just smiled sweetly in response and then nodded once. “It’s also something you can do for yourself,” she started walking towards her horse, “when I’m not around.” He looked confused as she came back to stand before him with a satchel. “Or even when I am.” There was a flush upon her cheek, and he suddenly understood her meaning. “Now, sit. We have things to discuss.” She pulled two apples from her bag, and handed him one. She put the other in her mouth as she pulled out a stack of papers.

He did as he was told, and watched her with a swelling of his heart. He didn’t know if this was how all men felt when they knew the woman before them was all they wanted in the world, but for as much as Calian had thought he wanted her, he wasn’t sure he would ever get enough. Her hair was tousled from his wandering hands, the blush on her cheek was still present, and the apple added a playful element that made him realize the depth of his feelings.

He knew the word “love” meant much in her culture. It was the highest declaration of affection, but it felt like a small word that didn’t nearly encompass everything he was feeling. His people didn’t have a word to express such an emotion. He would have to think on it, how he might share with her what she meant to him, but he became distracted when she told him what she had been doing in his absence. 

She sat across from him under the willowy shade of the tree, took a bite of the apple, and showed him a letter.

Calian was surprised to discover that Abby had been working on one project – protecting his people. Not only had she used the bribe money her late husband had received to reroute the railroad, she had done the one thing she had hoped to never do again, speak to her father.

Well, not directly.

“Gus mentioned that you were afraid, with Tom’s disappearance, that there was no one left in town with enough power to help you. His family was never going to do anything to secure the safety of your tribe, Calian, but I can.”

He was confused again. “How?”

“The Davidsons were only interested in business and how they could expand their own empire. Your tribe has nothing to advance their ambition, but I don’t require anything. I want nothing but for your soul to be at peace knowing your people are safe, so I reached out to someone with connections I believe are even more powerful than the Davidsons, who would be willing to help you with no expectation of anything in return.”

“Your father.” Calian knew what had driven Abby to part ways with her family, so while her father may not want anything from his people, there would definitely be a demand placed upon Abby as a means of payment.

“Actually, I reached out to my sister. She told my family I, Mary, had died, so under false pretense, that she alone would see through, I wrote to her as Deputy Sheriff Augustus, someone she met while in Independence, and told them of your tribe’s plight. I mentioned that you, specifically, had tried to care for Mary in her last hours, and that as a means of honoring your care for her, they may wish to intervene on the tribe’s behalf to secure their land against future advancements, so to speak.”

“Why would she agree to do something like that for us?”

“For you.” Abby took one of his hands in hers. “My sister and I send letters, and I told her about you. I told you, we like to talk about men, well, some of us.” She smiled to herself. “I told her of my affection for you, of how important you had become to me, so my request for help was something she was readily willing to assist with. If my happiness was dependent upon yours, she would do whatever she could on our behalf.”

Tears welled in Calian’s eyes. “You did all this? For me?”

“Of course, and I plan to do a great deal more.” That self-assured resilience laced each word.

“More? You have grander schemes?”

“Some, yes. Some are more simple like deciding on where we might live, and who will officiate our wedding, once you ask.” She teased. “You know, simple.” She smiled again as his tears flowed.

He was overcome with emotion, and he said her Apache name amidst the sob that escaped his lips. “Djon-deh-zee.”

She scrambled forward and crawled into his lap to embrace him. She held him tight, rocking a little back and forth. 

He wrapped his arms around her waist. “I do not deserve you.” He whispered against her hair.

And then it was her turn to weep. “We deserve each other.” She kissed his temple, then his cheek, and then finally his lips. The kiss was meant to impart a promise, one that they would spend the rest of their lives trying to keep.

“I love you.” It felt right. He hadn’t understood the power of the word, but in that moment, he did. It was a grand word that conveyed much, and said with passion and weight, it meant exactly what he wanted it to mean.

Her entire face lit up at his admission. “I love you.” 

It felt good to hear too.

~ * ~

Time passed quickly with so many tasks that required attention.

Abby’s father was able to gain an audience with the President, a man who had once been a Union General in the Civil War and was establishing a safeguard for land to be protected for future generations. He called them National Parks, and his charity didn’t end there. He sympathized with the “Indians”, and while his ideas for the native population was complex, he did agree that he wanted the extermination of the tribes to end, but he, too, was struggling to win that battle.

A national park in southeast New Mexico had been established as well as a reservation for the indigenous people, and the President’s proposal was to have Calian and his people relocate there. Calian’s tribe’s numbers were diminished after the many fights with the Comanche, the government, and even some settlers, and on this designated land, they would no longer be alone and could “thrive” under their own leadership without fear of further harassment.

It sounded a little too good to be true. 

There had to be a catch.

A missive had been sent along with the proposal describing the land and animals found in the area, and while it genuinely sounded like a nice place to call home, it was hard to look beyond the land they were intrinsically tied to and consider leaving it behind, but they were low on options if they wished to survive. 

Calian spoke to the chief and offered to scout the land and measure the benefit of such a move. He was granted permission and in the interim, the chief would stand down and wait to make a decision until Calian’s return.

The President sent a special document that would allow for Calian to travel freely without fear of intimidation, subjugation, or any other manner of mistreatment. Hoyt had been deputized when the whole ordeal with Tom had finally come to a head, and he offered to go with Calian for protection as not only a “law man”, a word he could barely say with a straight face, but also as his friend since the journey was about 650 miles one way. 

“You really wanna be alone all that time? Somebody’s gotta watch your back, buddy.” Was Hoyt’s rationale.

If the weather kept, it would take them nearly four weeks of travel to the reservation, a couple of weeks, at least, of scouting, then roughly another month for the return trip. Some three to four months away from Abby and his people…he couldn’t fathom it.

It was during the back and forth with the President and the realization that he might have to move to another state, he and Abby had a serious conversation about the future of their relationship.

He hadn’t yet proposed.

That was a small sore spot for Abby.

But he wanted to wait until he knew the fate of his people. He couldn’t think of his own happiness with the tribe’s fate in limbo. Abby understood the why, but that he hadn’t committed himself to her was confusing, and their physical interactions were also limited.

He was attempting to court her, poorly. He didn’t know what was expected, so Hoyt and Augustus gave him tips. He brought her flowers, and because he didn’t have much use for money, the Sullivan sisters gave him large discounts on items they were sure Abby would like. He often felt awkward, but Abby appreciated his efforts all the same. 

She was always complimentary, and good natured, but eventually, when the subject of the future was broached, and he didn’t have a clear answer, it soured the mood, ever so slightly.

He didn’t want her to think he had offered his services to the chief as a means of escape because he wanted to marry her. He wanted them to start their lives together, and he wanted them to belong to one another, and the thought of losing her, in any capacity caused him pain.

It had been about a month since their time at the tree when they met at Kai’s, in the back room, to speak freely. Abby had been stressed since the proposal had arrived, and every decision they made, every conversation, was with that possibility, the tribe’s relocation, at the forefront. “Four months? You want me to remain here, without you or any guarantee, for four months? Possibly three if everything goes to plan.” The last sentence was filled with sarcasm.

He tried to find a positive spin. “You’ll be preparing to become a lawyer, so the time will pass quickly. You’ll barely notice my absence.”

“Are you joking?” She had been playing with a piece of ribbon from Kai’s stock, but at that, she threw it aside and began to pace. “After everything we said, after the declarations, and everything we’ve been through, you just want me to continue on as if the love of my life didn’t abandon me?”

He found himself dumbfounded. He was unfamiliar with the phrase, but knowing what each word meant, he tried to wrap his mind around the idea that that was how she thought of him. “Love of your li…” He couldn’t finish the sentence because she was now on a rant.

“Have you not denied yourself at every turn? Have your people put their lives on hold during all this? Are they not having children and making plans for their future? Do you still not believe yourself worthy?” She stopped and looked at him directly with those final words. 

The long table stood between them, and Calian was gripping the back of one of the chairs, his knuckles turning white. She was right, as always. He kept waiting…wanting to wait. What was he afraid of?

“You can straddle the line between worlds, but you cannot continue to deny your own life for the sake of everyone else. No one has asked this of you. Not even your chief. This suffering you endure is of your own doing.” He could only nod in agreement. “Do you want to move with the tribe, should it prove the right choice? Don’t think. Just answer.”

“No.” He was ashamed to admit it.

“Do you still love me?”

“Yes.” He did his best to reassure her.

“Your sister is safe. You’ve been able to lay down your burden, so why does it feel as if you’re carrying another?”

“Taza asked more of me. I’m not done.”

“We are doing what we can for your people, and the completion of the task should not equate to you finally earning some self-imposed reward. Why can you not do something for yourself? You told me of the choices you made, when you finally felt you had the right to do so, but you’re not following through. Why?”

“I don’t know. I’m afraid of making a choice that might sever the connection to the one I didn’t choose.”

“So you’re trapped. You’re not straddling the line, you’re paralyzed.” She finally walked around the table. He was still gripping the chair, and with gentle movements, she helped him to unclench his fists, then she took them in her hands. 

He couldn’t look at her. He couldn’t let her see the shame that was radiating throughout his entire being. “I don’t know how to be anything else than this.”

“You are bound by an honor I’m not sure anyone before you has ever held so deeply. It won’t happen overnight, but together we can discover who else you could be, if that’s what you want?” She tried to find his eyes, and after a little patience on her end, he finally met them. 

He took a moment, just looking at her. It was unfair what he was doing. He knew she deserved better, and he had promised to do right by her when he declared his love for her, and since then, he had put her on a shelf, hoping she would keep. He could, eventually, be more than the warrior she had fallen in love with, but that’s who he needed to be just then. He needed to make decisions and follow through, as she suggested. As his strength of will returned, he saw that even she saw the change in him. “Forgive me.”

She rested a hand against his cheek. “There is nothing to forgive.”

He brought her free hand to his lips and kissed it. Her eyes were pools of infinite love and he felt it deep in his bones. He leaned forward and kissed her gently. “I will do better, I promise you.”

She sighed. “You already do so much…it won’t be a promise I hold you to.” She gave him a wry smile, and he chuckled.

He knew the journey might be rough, but Abby was resilient, and she saw things others missed. She would be an asset for such an endeavor, but in all honesty, a pit formed in his chest whenever he thought of leaving her behind. So, he made another decision. One of many that were soon to follow. “Would you like to come to New Mexico with me?” He then added with a little shrug, “And Hoyt?”

“I thought you’d never ask.” She smiled and they shared another sweet kiss.

~ * ~

A week later, Calian escorted Abby to “their lake” for a romantic lunch. They stood side by side, holding hands, and enjoying the quiet moment, together. There was something unique in holding Abby’s hand. His people didn’t really show affection like that. He could feel her warmth and he relished in the intimacy such a simple gesture offered. Sometimes she would thread their fingers, other times they would clasp hands, but each time, he felt…calm. 

He knew he had this effect on her as well. They had long looked to one another during stressful moments, and it always brought them a sense of peace, but this action, holding hands, calmed something in his soul. He sighed deeply as he let the sensation wash over him.

He laid out a blanket and set out their meal, while Abby watched, resting against a nearby tree. She was bemused, again. Kate and Kai had helped him prepare a light lunch, with a special surprise tucked inside the basket.

When they were seated, Calian tried a seductive technique Hoyt had suggested, feeding her bite-sized treats. It made Abby laugh, and that was enough. He eventually pulled out the special dessert Kai had prepared for them with a simple gold band placed atop it. He put it down in front of her and watched as her face lit up with recognition. She looked at him wide-eyed.

Kate had been kind when she had explained what he would need to do. A union in his culture was different, and as a man of few words, four simple words were all he needed in theirs.

“Abby, will you marry me?” Calian was fairly certain of her answer, and yet, the moment the words left his lips, it was as if he found himself in an abyss. The world around him went silent, his heartbeat slowed, and he felt the wait for the answer an eternity.

Her eyes welled with tears of joy. “Yes.” And then she giggled as he took the ring and placed it on her finger. She took his face in her hands and kissed him repeatedly as she whispered, “Yes” a few more times.

Calian had never felt such an emotion as the swelling of the love and pride and relief and pure joy that spread through him with her answer. It was one word, another one of her small words that held great meaning.

Everyday with her was an adventure.

They decided to spend the remainder of the day together secluded in the shade of the trees of “their” place. They laid down together, and Abby snuggled into Calian’s side. With her head resting upon his chest and his arms wrapped around her, Calian was finally starting to believe he had earned this happiness.

The following day, Calian paid a visit to Augustus. They had a lot to talk about. Augustus had been part of many of the conversations regarding the tribe’s relocation, but now that Calian had decided he wouldn’t be moving with them, he needed his best friend’s counsel.

As a “non-citizen”, his marriage to Abby wouldn’t be recognized by the government, not that Calian cared what they approved of. The tribe would most likely not approve either. That he did care a little about. What Calian truly cared about though was what Abby wanted. She was certain that no one in Independence would contest their union, and Gus agreed. So they could have a small ceremony surrounded by their friends, and Gus would officiate.

Decision made.

Then there was the matter of a place for them to live. Gus offered Calian the sheriff’s homestead. It was close to town, had a sizeable plot they could cultivate, and it was already paid for. Gus liked living in town. He had a nice space above his office, so the house was just sitting vacant.

Calian wanted a home for them built at their lake. It was a beautiful spot, not far from town either. The sheriff’s stead, while good in theory held complicated memories, and they deserved a fresh start. Augustus agreed, and offered to look into how they might acquire the land while Calian and Abby were gone. 

Another decision made.

Finally, Calian would need some type of employment. When and if the tribe moved, he might need to seek another path. They grew quiet for a long moment, just looking at one another. It was as if Augustus was mentally scrolling through what he knew Calian was capable of and would possibly want to do. “What do you want to do?”

Calian smiled to himself. That phrase now held a different meaning for him.

Augustus gave him a curious look. “What’s so funny?”

Calian’s smile widened. “I was just reminded of something Abby said.”

Augustus’s eyes continued to scrutinize, and then the picture became clear. Gus leaned back in his chair, crossing his arms, and chuckled. “Did you and Abby…you know…solidify your union?” Calian looked confused, which made Gus laugh again. 

And then Calian understood. “If I share something with you, would you be willing to give me some advice?” Calian felt that he should be embarrassed, but he wasn’t. Not with Augustus. And the time was nearing when Calian would need to be ready to reciprocate the pleasure he had received, and he did not want to disappoint.

~ * ~

Calian had scheduled to start the trip to New Mexico by month’s end to ensure they would have fair weather for the length of their journey. That gave them only two weeks to plan their ceremony, honeymoon, and prepare for the journey. Calian was about to learn how quickly things could happen when the friends around you were excited for you.

Kate offered them Hagan’s for the ceremony and post celebration, including the nicest suite for their honeymoon.

Kai would cook a little, but more importantly, would make Abby a new dress. Calian didn’t realize that all the clothes Abby wore were borrowed. He didn’t understand what that meant, nor women’s fascination with fashion, even though he had overheard a number of conversations from the women in town. What he did understand was that certain colors complimented Abby’s hair and eye color, not that she needed the enhancement. So when he saw how happy she was at the possibility of receiving something new, he knew that what Kai was offering her was something to be grateful for.

Kai also asked if Calian would accept a wedding suit, as he rarely had an opportunity to create something so unique. Calian was intrigued by the idea, and happily accepted Kai’s generosity.

Augustus would officiate, an act he considered a great honor. 

Lucia and her mother also offered to bring food, while Lucia asked if she could sing for Abby’s procession. Which of course, she could.

Hoyt offered to walk Abby “down the aisle”, a tradition in their culture, that pleased Abby as she and Hoyt had formed a sibling-like relationship, and family was important on such a special day, which is why Calian reached out to his own sister, Nascha and her family.

Although their reunion had been somewhat strained, Calian was delighted that Nascha and Abby would finally meet, and that they would have another opportunity to spend some time together. Now that all the anticipation and expectations were out of the way, perhaps they could begin anew. He was looking forward to it.

Three days later, Calian was standing in his lovely new suit, a wonderful combination of both Abby’s and Calian’s cultures, before all their friends. Kate and Augustus had given Calian an overview of what to expect over the course of the day, while Calian and Gus discussed a way of combining their cultures in their vows as well.

Calian was nervous, a feeling he wasn’t expecting to experience when he was so certain of his love for Abby. He knew it was, in part, because of the speed in which his life had changed. He had gone from being alone with a singular purpose to a full life in a matter of months. 

He was about to become someone’s husband, a role he had never expected to play. Augustus had been his only true friend for years, and now he was surrounded by others who were willing to go to great lengths for him. That was all thanks to Abby. She had brought them together, and for as comfortable as Calian had been in his lone wolf life, being part of a pack was indeed an improvement.

Lucia started to sing, and everyone in attendance stood up and turned to watch the stunning Abby walk towards Calian with a rather handsome Hoyt on her arm.

Calian wondered if he had borrowed another suit from the undertaker, but that thought quickly went to the wayside.

Calian found himself blindsided by how beautiful Abby looked. He always found her the most lovely creature he had ever beheld, but there was something special about today. Everything else faded away as he watched her walk to him in her pale pink dress accented in Apache beads and adornments. Kai had outdone himself.

When Abby was standing before him, her features glowing with joy, surrounded by her copper waves, she whispered, “You look beautiful.”

Calian blushed. He had to admit that wearing the new clothes made him feel different, dignified, and he had worn his hair half up so his face would not be hidden to her on this day. He didn’t find anything about himself particularly interesting, but the fact that Abby did, caused a sliver of pride to spread through him. 

It was nearly sunset, and he used the timing to his advantage when he responded with, “The sun pales in comparison to your beauty, see how it bows to you.”

“Nice one, buddy.” Hoyt had to compliment Calian’s, and everyone chuckled.

They said their vows, words about the journey they had been on to reach this moment, an affirmation of their love for one another. Calian spoke softly in Apache, words meant only for Abby, words he would give meaning to over the course of their lives.

When Augustus announced, “You may kiss your bride” to solidify their union, Abby smiled her sweet smile, and their friends cheered.

The first kiss, as husband and wife.

It was soft, intimate in a different way than Calian expected. It was full of meaning, and it was done in front of witnesses who would help them uphold the promise they had just made to one another. Calian’s heart was full, and yet it continued to grow.

They celebrated with food and drink and dancing and a good deal of laughter. It was a night unlike any they had shared before. Abby mingled, and Calian, out of habit, stuck to the edges. He watched her for a little while, just in awe that she was now his wife. 

She was his life now.

His solitude didn’t last long, because Abby noticed his absence. He watched as she looked around and how her face changed when her eyes finally settled on him. His heart thudded as it always had.

She floated over to him and took his hands in hers. “These types of parties tend to go on into the wee hours, but no one expects the couple to remain for the duration.” She gave him a sly smile full of unspoken meaning.

“I do not wish to take you away if you’re having a good time.”

“We’re only going to have a few days alone together before we’re on the road, with Hoyt.” She gave him a look, another filled with insinuation.

“You make a good point.” He chuckled softly, but he was nervous, again, and Abby noticed.

She pulled him further away from their friends. “I know our lives have moved rather quickly these past few weeks, and there are no expectations…” She sighed, and Calian watched as she tried to find the right words. He appreciated the way she always tried to consider the feelings of those around her. “We can take all the time we need to become comfortable with one another.”

He knew what she was suggesting. “Oh, that is not the reason for my hesitation. It’s just that …I do not wish to disappoint you.”

“That could never happen.” She leaned up and kissed him. “Then come along, my husband. I think it’s time we retire.”

The word ‘husband’ struck him and his whole body reacted. “As you wish.” He swallowed hard, and Abby’s smile widened.

Abby gave Kate a look, one she understood immediately. Kate drew the guests’ attention from the stairs so that Abby and Calian could sneak up, but it was no use. Hoyt noticed them, and whooped and hollered in encouragement.

They were both laughing as they reached the top of the stairs, but it quickly turned passionate as it became clear as to what was going to happen next. They kissed and stumbled their way to their room.

~ * ~

Once inside, Calian pressed Abby up against the door and kissed her deeply. She slipped her hands under his jacket, running them both over his shoulders so that his jacket fell to the floor in one fluid movement. She then started unbuttoning his shirt and pulled the same maneuver. She let her hands roam over his exposed skin, which goosebumped at her touch. 

She pushed him into the center of the room and admired him. 

He was wearing only the new breeches Kai had made him. Her face expressed her admiration, and he warmed under that look. Abby traced an invisible line along his body as she circled him, letting her eyes wander wherever they may want. As she reached his backside, she drew a line straight down, then fully palmed his buttocks. 

She was standing in front of him again before he barely had time to react and began unbuttoning his breeches. “In my culture, we appreciate works of great beauty, and you, my love, are a masterpiece.”

He blushed at such a compliment.

Her hands did as they had before. They slipped under his breeches and around to his backside to drop his breeches in a puddle at his feet. He was fully exposed to her, and he thought he might feel vulnerable, but it was sensual. To feel the air on his skin, her hands, her eyes…it emboldened him.

He stepped out of his shoes and the discarded breeches and spun her around to help her remove her dress. As he unbuttoned the top half, he nibbled her ear and neck. Then it was laces and overlapping skirts, until he finally found her. He knew she had a small frame, her diminutive waist was evident in her clothing, but she seemed even more delicate without all those layers.

He had often found her movements graceful, and now he could see why. Her body was lithe. He could watch her unencumbered, and delight in exploring her without the trappings of ‘society’.

It was her turn to look nervous under his admiring eye. “You’re not disappointed?”

“How? Why?” He was confused.

“Because I may not be as you hoped. I look so different from your people…”

“You are all I have ever wanted.” He took a step forward and took her face in his hands. “All I ever hoped for.” He kissed her sweetly. “You are perfect.”

Any trepidation on either side faded away as they explored and became familiar with one another. She asked him again, “What do you want to do?” And this time, he acted more assuredly. Wherever his hands roamed, he followed with his lips. 

And he thrilled at her every sigh and moan. 

Thankfully, having taken Augustus’s advice, Calian ensured that Abby was fully satisfied.

Twice.

Her skin was supple, and pink, even in places he hadn’t expected. She was completely different than the women of his tribe, but he already knew that, even before seeing her laid bare, literally. It was one of the reasons he had fallen in love with her. Her skin color was a stark contrast against his, and he found it arousing to see her pale limbs entwined with his own.

Augustus had tried to inform him on what to expect, but nothing could have prepared him for the sense of worship he felt as they ‘made love’, a word both Abby and Augustus had used to describe the act. All Calian knew was that he was thankful they would have a few more days alone together because he felt like a man who had been starved and had finally been given a taste. 

And he planned to enjoy the feast before him.

Calian was used to not sleeping soundly. Years of worry of attack or other ills that could befall his people often left him in a perpetual state of grogginess from lack of sleep. He had become accustomed to it over time. But after the night’s exploits, he slept well for the first time. 

Still, he heard the light tap on the door in the morning.

Carefully, as to not wake his bride, he snuck out of bed and over to the door to discover a waiting breakfast tray, complete with a note inviting them to lunch, if they were compelled to leave their room. He would leave the decision to Abby, for he was content staying alone with her. But, he had to remind himself, they were leaving soon, so perhaps it would be best to spend a little time with their friends, and Nascha and her family, before then. 

He would let Abby decide. 

Later.

He put the breakfast on a side table and then crawled upon the bed lean over her. Her copper waves were swirled about her on the pillow, and her mouth was ever so slightly open. He bit back his smile and just took in her sleeping features. He realized he was now in the honored position to do this whenever he felt like it. He leaned down and placed a gentle kiss upon her lips. When she stirred beneath him and opened her eyes, he saw the flash of passion within them. It wasn’t long after they were both stirred to pleasure.

~ * ~

Abby made a good argument for spending time with their friends and family. Not only would they be gone for a few months, life was easily cut short, as she well knew, and they should not take that for granted.

She and Nascha became fast friends, and Nascha’s daughter was as smitten with Abby as Calian had been…was still.

Another week passed in the blink of an eye amidst preparations for their travel, spending time with everyone, and the little time they had left for each other. It was a tiring, exhilarating blur, but Calian had never felt himself so contented. He missed the routine of the tribe, but coming back to the suite, their temporary home, to an awaiting Abby, was beyond anything he imagined. 

He was eager to go “home”. 

Abby was his home.

The first night he realized that, he cried.

Calian, Abby, and Hoyt left Independence amidst tears and well wishes early on the morning Calian had planned. Abby promised to write to keep them all updated as to their travels.

A grand adventure awaited them, one that could potentially decide the fate of his people. There was a lot to look forward to, and to return to. So, with both light and heavy hearts, they departed on the first leg of their journey, knowing their friends would keep the hearth burning in their absence, and welcome them back with open arms.

He thumbed away a tear from Abby’s cheek and replaced it with a kiss. “Last chance to escape.”

“Not a chance. You’re stuck with me.” She smiled through the tears.

“In this world and the next.” They shared another kiss and she rested a hand upon his cheek.

“We’ll send Hoyt to a gambling house when we get to Austin.” She winked.

Calian laughed a real laugh, and it caused Hoyt to turn on his horse. “You two already trying to find a way of getting rid of me?”

“Oh no. You’re stuck with us.” Abby insisted. “But four months on the road, you’re going to have to occasionally make yourself scarce.”

“For you two, anything.” He tipped his hat in their direction.

They all turned toward the open road that lay before them and sighed at the looming task they were about to undertake. Abby took Calian’s hand in hers and gave it a reassuring squeeze. They looked at one another, so many things said in that look, and smiled.

He used the reins to encourage the horses forward, and left Independence behind.

~ * ~