Nicole watched the portal in front of her swirl a blue radiance of light and whizzed as itgrew in size. She clutched the iron pendant on her neck, rubbing her forefinger over the center gem. She didn't plan oncoming back, but she promised her mother whenshe hadvisited her a month ago. Deeply inhaling, Nicole stepped through the portal, covering the wall of an alleybehind a bar, and was washed with its glow. For a split second, the hairs on her arms and neck stood up, feeling as if she was floating, weightless. The light faded out and Nicole stepped on to soft grass and heard the portal swish behind her as it closed. She blinked, adjusting to her surroundings and looked over the town square. She tucked her pendant back into her shirt. She can hear the yelling of merchants eager to sell their goods of meat, clothing, jewelry, and pottery, weapons. She walked through the crowd, listening to the chatterof the townspeople as they offered trades.
"Miss?" A townsman said. "You've returned?"
Nicole smiled, hesitant to respond. She rather not cause a scene, but it had been a year since she left. She made verylittle contact with her family, other than to show when needed. The life she now lived outside of the community was different and out of date to the life here.
"Yes, I'm here to visit my mother." Nicole said.
The man, with graying hair, hunched over and bald nodded in agreement.
"She's at herquarters Miss. She'll be glad to see you again." He said.
"Thank you."
Nicole continued her walk through the crowd, picking up her pace in hopes to not be recognized again. But dressed in her modern gear, blue jeans and white and black striped shirt made her stick out. Their home had remained the same since she last remembered. A pitched roof made of wood, with oak walls and logs pressed against the roof to keep it standing. The longhouse a staggering 55 feet tall and 65 feet wide. She had many joyful memories in this house. She knocked before entering but opened the door before hearing anything on the other side. The savory smell of goat meat hit her nose and the ember of the fire in the center of the room flickered. A woman at the far end, sitting next toyounger man who sharedher red hair, turned from the table.
"Nicole." The woman said, rushing toward her. "It's good to see you again. Mitchell."
The boy, with shoulder length braided hair and pale skin approached them. His expressionstern as he faced Nicole. Theirmother pulled Nicole into a hug.
"So,why come now?" Mitchell said.
Her mother, Astrid, nudged Mitchell inhis side. He rolled his eyes before shaking his head and walkingaway. Nicole glanced at her feet, before feeling her mom grab her forearm.
"It's okay mom." She said.
"It's a miracle you didn't change your own name." Mitchell said.
"Mitchell!" Astrid cried.
He scoffed and shook his head, muttered, "Whatever," before he returned back to the table.
Astrid gave him a disappoint frown, watching him leave. She sighed. Nicole didn't blame him for being mad. It had been a hard decision for her to leave. It was amazing the rest of the community didn't treat her like Mitchell.
"He's dealing with your father's passing in his own way." Astrid said, a flash of guilt settling in her eyes. She forced a smile on her face. "But you're here now. That gives us time to prepare for the ceremony."
"It's two months away." Nicole said.
"Yes, but as soon to be Alpha, you have many responsibilities to oversee before the ceremony starts."
Astrid tugged at her arm.
"I thought you should know, I've invited-"
The door to their longhouse opened. Nicole froze.
"Shae." She whispered.
Shae hesitated at the doorway, looking between Astrid and Nicole.
"I'm sorry, I didn't know you'd be here." Shae said. "Should I come back another time?"
"No, Come, let's eat first. I invited you over for dinner too. You've both traveled so far to get here. I've been waiting for Nicole all day." Astrid said.
Astrid settled at the table and Shae approached Nicole. A look of concern and wonder in her eyes. She sighed. Nicole gulped.
"You look good." Shae said.
"You too." Nicole said. "How are you?"
"Busy, I help here when I can." Shae said. "I'm a doctor now. I can't visit like I used to."
"You finally graduated." Nicole said.
"Nicole, Shae." Astrid called.
Nicole sat at the table with Shae, Mitchell scoffed, glaring at Nicole before staring into his plate. Nicole shifted. While she had chosen to leave but a year had been long enough to make Nicole feel out of place. The change between her relationship with her brother had been striking. She couldn't say it would be the same with their pack.
Word traveled quickly that Nicole returned and by the end of lunch people had flocked to see her. Many bearing gifts for her return in food, clothing, and even jewelry. The smiles and liveliness of the community had not changed that was one less problem to dealwith. When she had greeted all the people she could and finallyhad a moment to herself, Nicole wandered off through the town. Dinner wouldn't be done until a few more hours and that usually meant music and mead to go around. Shae sat at the front of the longhouse with a bottle of wine and two cups. She offered one to Nicole.
"It's just one cup." Shae said.
Nicole sat down next to Shae and took a sip. They stared at the townsquare, people closing shops to get ready for the reckoning. Nicole continued to drink in silence until she was half way through when she spoke again.
"I'm-"
"I know." Shae said. "I'm not mad."
Nicole glanced down at her feet. Shae had every reason to be angry just as much as Mitchell. Their relationship, though budding had an important role just as her position as Alpha.
"I didn't agree to marry you because I'm Alpha." Nicole said. "I really started to have feelings for you."
Nicole frowned. Shae faced her, the same soft smile and comforting gaze. Nicole sighed. She had the same caring nature. It made sense Shae would study in the medical field.
"I didn't too." Shae said. "But it's in the past now. And you feel differently about us."
Nicole bit her bottom lip and said, "Yes. I-"
"I will continue to help you and care for your pack. How things are between us now won't change that." Shae said. "You've become my family."
Shae finished her cup of wine and placed it down. She stood.
"It was good seeing you again Nicole." Shae said.
"You're leaving?" Nicole said.
"You've given me the closure I need. Don't you?" Shae said. "But I will always come in your time of need."
Nicole smiled.
"Thank you Shae."
"Don't be a stranger." Shae said.
Nicole stayed behind finishing her cup and as the sun had started to set she walked through the townsquare, spotting the temple of their past honored Alphas and greeted the guard out front. She walked through the halls, seeing the busts made of stone of their Alphas, wearing battle helmets and war weapons at the stand. Nicole headed to the second floor where another guard had stood at the end in front of a door. He allowed her to pass and Nicole exhaled, biting her bottom lip as she felt her eyes water. She sat at the bust of their recent Alpha, and her father, reading on the plaque, Raynor. Nicole sat in front of it, running a finger down the stand.
"Hi Dad." Nicole whispered, sniffling.
She bit her bottom lip, glancing at her clenched hands pinching at the hem of her shirt. She didn't expect coming back to be this difficult.
"I'm sorry," She said, inhaling to calm her nerves. "I missed the last ceremony. I just...it's hard seeing you're gone."
Nicole glanced back at the statue. The same stiff expression of the stone bust, capturing her father's strong chiseled jawline, and ridged brow shape. Immortalized in his battle helmet, thick long hair which he had always braided at the sides. Nicole sighed.
"I'm here now." She said, a faint smile across her face.
In a few hours her family will come to pay their respects, leave their offering of food, small tokens of their Gods to wish him peace in the after life.
"I miss you." Nicole said. "If you hadn't-"
She gulped, swallowing back the guilt and possibilities of how her father would still be alive had she been more skilled than she is now. She is the oldest she had three years in advance oftraining, but her father had been quick, and a father whowould risk his life before he lost any of his children. Nicole stood back on her feet.
"I'm not mad." Nicole said. "I know what you did."
She gave the statue one last glance before exiting. The ceremony would begin soon, but the least she could do was carry the items as her mother had finally began to age. The stress of temporary Alpha didn't make anything easier. The guilt washed over Nicole again, wondering if she had stayed around her mother wouldn't be sofeeble. Nicole cut through the square and entered the Longhouse. Mitchel was gathering bowls of fruit and grains, while Astrid held a chalice and a bottle of mead in her arms.
"It's time." Astrid said.
Nicole gathered the rest of the offerings, tokens of their Gods, small metal statues no bigger than three inches tall. The jewelry and a leg of lamb,her father loved, and two candles. Mitchel gave her another look of distain.
"Why don't you stay and keep the house warm?" He said. "We can handle this."
"I want to do this." Nicole said.
Mitchell huffed.
"Please, you two can't-"
An explosion erupted from the center of the square followed by screaming and yelling. Nicole dropped the offerings and rushed to the window. A wall of flame shot into the sky from across their home, burning down the seamstress building. It spread in a blink over to the next building. She could see people rushing out of their homes in fear.
"Oh my..." Astrid gasped.
"What's going on?" Mitchell said.
Astrid shook her head. Another wave of screams sounded followed by the loud fire of guns.
"Hunters." Nicole said, watching another explosion sound from the right of the town.
Nicole clenched her jaw as she stoodfear stricken. She watched her family flee their once peaceful and beautiful home in a panic fromthe gun fire atthe right wing of the square. A bomb went off to the left ofher, sending chunks of debris flying through the air. She caughtthe strong odor of burning skin, smoke, and sulfur. How didthey find them? How could they break throughthe barrier and desecrate sacred ground like this? Nicole blinked back a tear, a flare of anger settling inside her.
"We have to go!" Astrid called, exiting their home. "In here, quickly!"
They cut across the Square, dodging pieces of debris, jumping over bodies, and chucks of buildings along the way. This next bomb had been much closer and nearly deafen Nicole as they moved through the crowd. The smoke cleared and she saw the door to the temple of their dead had been blown open.
"They're after the relic!" Nicole said.
Astridgrabbed Nicole by thearm and pulled her toward the temple. They ran through the nave and up the spiraledmarble steps. Nicole noticedthe smashed urns and statues along the way. Herhands shook. The years of tradition passed along through generations,destroyed. The screaming disappeared as they traveled to higher ground, but she could still hear the gunfire andexplosions ringingin the distance. Astrid rushedthem into the their father's memorial room. Two men stood at the alter, the bust smashed in pieces and a cloth clutched in one of their hands. The man with the cloth, in a sleeveless denim jacket, faded ripped black pants, and combat boots, glared at them.
"Well look who showed up." He hissed.
Nicole flinched. He tilted his head in her direction, a look of recognition settling in his eyes.
"I remember you." He said, holding out the cloth and shook it. "Just came back to get what's mine."
He grinned.
"That doesn't belong to you!" Nicole said. "How dare you."
He grinned.
"You forgot," He said. "I'm the one who killed your precious Alpha."
Nicole glared. She ran toward them, blinking away her tears.
"Dex!" The other man called.
Dex pulled out a gun. Nicole froze.
"These aren't normal bullets." Dex said. "I'm not stupid."
"Nicole." Astrid warned. "Let them go."
Dex put on a smug smile.
"Listen to your mother." Dex said.
Nicole stared at him.
"Let's go Garth." Dex said.
Nicole watched them walk away, the gun pointed on her as they moved. She watched Mitchell shift, his eyes flickering orange. Before she could speak, he charged, tackling Dex to the ground, sending his gun to the floor. Garth fumbled to pull out his gun from his holster, while Dex and Mitchell tussledaround onthe floor. Nicole grabbed Garth by the scruff of his shirt and sent a fist into his face. She heard the bone of his nose crack and felt it sink in. He screamed, giving Nicole enough time to knee him in the gut and toss him across the room. Mitchell howled and Nicole looked to see a knife jabbed into his shoulder with Dex behind him. Nicole raced over, kicking Dex in the stomach and helped Mitchell put. He yanked the knife out.
"What are you doing?" Nicole said.
Dex got back up, wrapping his arm around Nicole's neck. She staggered back, slamming him into a wall, but he didn't let up. Panicked, Nicole grabbed his forearms, sinking her nails into him and felt herself shift. Her muscles tense and a growl emitted from her mouth. She felt her teeth stretch through her gums and instinctively, with glowing orange eyes, sank her teeth into Dex's forearm. He shouted, releasing her.
"Nicole, we have to leave!" Astrid said. "Mitchell is hurt. That blade was silver."
Nicole rushed to her family, holding Mitchell up and raced out of the room. The temple shookas a bomb went off only afew feet away this time. It wouldn't be long until thewhole place would be nothing but a pile of rubble.
"The Relic." Nicole remembered.
"They can't use it until the ritual has been completed,and they'll need you for that." Astrid said. "We can't stay here."
Mitchell grunted. The burn of silver rushing through his skin like acid blood.
"There's an escape passage in the basement." Astrid said.
They ran through the passages. She ledthem to a wooden wall at the end of the cellar and pulled it open. The passage had been large enough to fit them comfortably but dim to navigate.
"Take this." Astrid said, pullinga dagger from inside the pouch of her robe.
She handed it to Nicole and hugged her.
"Get as far away as you can." She said. "You musthide. When we are strong enough we will regroup."
Nicole nodded.
"Nicole, find the relic,bring it back,should the chance arise." Astrid said.
"I will. I promise." Nicole agreed.
They hugged one last time and ran through the tunnel. The dirt wallsringingfrom the gun fire above, but they made it outand into the depths of the forest near theirhome. Nicole could see the fire and smoke swallowing the palace and willed herself to continue on. Astrid and Mitchell split up after several miles and Nicole had been left to wander the forest alone. For hours she traveled, wandering through the trees and bushes, until the sun set. In the distance, she heard the rustle of footsteps behind her. The came closer and in a panic, Nicole hide behind a tree, peeking as she watched the hunters talk amongst each other as they walked. A blinding white light washed over her and shielding her face with her hand, she squinted through to see two other hunters.
"Hey!" One shouted.
Nicole set off in a sprint.
"She went this way!"
Nicole glanced over her shoulder to see the flashlight beams onlya fewfeet behind her. She lost her footing as she stepped onto an uneven patch of soft dirt, grabbingonto a tree trunk to catch herself. She spotted the start of a slope ahead and descended, dodging and ducking through low tangled branches. She rounded a tree to her right and jumped over a thick fallen trunk. Nicole heard the blast of a pistol followed by a searingpain through her forearm. She flinched, groaning as she held her right arm. She examined the rapid trickle of blood coating her skin.Shetook several deep breaths and leaned against a tree to brace herself. She picked up stomping of footsteps behind her and the snap of twigs. She peeked out from behindthe tree and dodged just in time to miss theblade slicingtoward her face from the right. She had lost the blade her mother gave her in the first scuffle with the hunters.
"Where do you think you're going?" The hunter asked.
Nicolecaughthis forearm before he couldswing back around. He countered, using his left hand. Nicole's head jerked to the left upon impact which had given him the opportunity to pull his arm free. He slashed his hand across her face, raking his nails down hercheek. She let out a gruntwhenthe blunt force of his knee slammed into her gut.
"Garth!"
Hunched over, gripping her stomach, Nicole let out another strangled grumble and caught the beam of light from the top of the hill. She inhaled and grimaced,willing herself to stand and stare at her attacker.
"Dex!" Garth yelled, shininghis flashlight down toward them.
Nicole took the distraction and punched Dex in the jaw. She felt his skin tense under her knuckles and spun around into a sprint. She spotted the flashes of light beside her as she moved through the shrubbery. She heard the kick up of rocks and dirt behind her.
"She's getting away!" Garth shouted.
"Get her you idiot!" Dex huffed.
Nicole picked up afaint growl before she felt claws digginginto her back, shredding her blue button down and sinkingdeepinto her skin. Nicole let out a scream,fromthe burn of therazor sharp clawsthat ripped intoherskin,falling to the ground. She rolled over quick enough to block another claw swingingtoward her head.Shescreamed againas it cutfour deepgashes into her forearms. She stretched her left arm out beside her,searching,grasping dirt and ripping up roots before her hand closedaround the ridges of a rock. Sheswung it around into Dex's forehead as hard as she could. He groaned as he stumbled back and Nicole kicked him to increase the distancebetween them and climbed to her feet.
"You bitch!" Dex hissed.
Frantic, she didn't noticethepile of rocks and tree roots in her path and tripped, losing her footing, tumbling down another slope. Instinctively, she tucked her arms around herhead. She felt the rocks, dirt, and sticks against her cheeks,scratching and scrapingher face and arms. Picking up momentum, Nicole spiraled down the slope, slammingback first into a rock,finally face-plantinginto a bed of grass. The metallic taste of blood filled her mouth by the time she reached the bottom. Nicole ranher tongue over the cut on her lip that split upon impact. Shepushed herself up on painful,aching arms. Thethrob of her cuts and bruises burning.
"Find her!" Dex yelled, from above.
Nicole scanned her surroundings and made out the shadow of a barn in the distance, several yardsahead. She dashed into the barn, stumblingover left out tools. She shutthe rusted door. It screeched as it moved and Nicole crept intoa stall, hidingunder a pile of hay. She deeply inhaled, holding her breath, as she listened throughthe wall.
"Where'd she go?" Garth said.
"Fuck!" Dex grumbled. "We lost her."
A beam of light cut through the cracks of the old barn, asDex and Garth's footstepsshuffled through the grass.
"Shit, let's get out of here." Dex whispered.
Nicole listened to their stomping fade into the distance and she sighed in relief. The rush of adrenaline, dissipating. A flood of exhaustion hit her like a freight-train and sherested her head back against the wall, her eyes drooping as she allowed herself to finally rest. As her head dropped, dosing off, the faint sound of the barn dooropening and whispersbarely registered before Nicole passed out.
Nicole stirred, gingerly flexing her fingers. She cringed, feeling her body pulse with pain in her face and her arms. She picked up the steady beep of the heartratemonitor beside her. The harsh glareof hospital light flooding her vision. Nicole glanced around her, recognizingthe white walls of ahospital room and the gurney she had been settled on. Sittingup she noticed an IV bag attached to her arm.
"What?" She rasped.
She noticed the gauze around her arms and felt around her face. Her fingers brushed against the rough bumps of sutures. She looked down at herself to see a hospital gown and bandagingaround the cuts and bruises on her chest. Nicole grabbed the bedrailing and pulled the sheets off.
"Hey."
Nicole flinched, only now noticingthewoman was sitting in thechair in the corner of the room, nearthe foot of her bed. She smiled and approached Nicole. She let out a heavy sigh, her brows creased into a worriedfrown.
"It's okay." She placed a gentlehand on Nicole's. "How are you feeling? You were beat up pretty bad when I found you in the barn last night."
Nicole raised a brow, a look of complete loss on her face.
"Do you remember what happened?"
Nicole paused.
"I-where am I?" Nicole asked.
"This is Purgatory Hospital. You're not from around here, are you?" Shestated. "I'm Waverly Earp."
Nicole brushed a piece of hair from her ownface.
"Nicole Haught." She introduced herself. "Thank you for bringing me here, but I won't need to stay."
With that Nicole tugged at her IV tube.
"Hold on! I wouldn't do that if I were you." Waverly said. "It's a miracle you're even conscious right now. You're lucky you don't have a concussion. You should wait until the doctor has taken alook at you."
Nicole shifted.
"Really, I'm fine. I'm a fast healer." She said as sheyanked the IV out of her arm. Waverly gasped. She grabbed Nicole by the shoulders, grunting as she pushedher back into bed.
"You need to rest!" Waverly said.
Nicole looked at her confused as she strained to keep Nicole in place. A pang of frustration wentthrough her and she pushed backagainst Waverly with ease, getting toher feet. She stood sharply, knocking Waverly off balance. Lettingout a yelp as she tripped backward, Waverly caught the bedpost, narrowly avoiding landing on the floor. Nicole's face softened.
"Sorry. I uh..." She mumbled. "I just need to-"
The door behind Waverly opened and a tallman of easilysix foot stature and dark skin entered with another woman. She wasmuch smaller in comparison, and hadice blue eyes. She eyed Nicole.
"Waves?" She asked Waverly.
"I'm fine Wynonna." Waverly said.
Nicole stood her ground, picking up onthe tension between Wynonna and the guy beside her. They gave a much more cautious vibe, all skeptical of Nicole, and distrustful. She faced Waverly, who gave her a much warmer gaze.
"Holy shit sticks, you're alive?" Wynonna noted.
"Wynonna." Waverly's tonewarned.
"What? She was nearly beaten into a bloody pulp last night." Wynonnastated. "It's a miracle you aren't brain-dead."
Waverly nudged Wynonna in her side.
"Uh, this is Nicole. That's my sister Wynonna and Dolls." Waverly said.
Dolls gave a curt wave. Nicole looked them over. She examined Dolls, hekept a much more attentive stare on her. Nicole's jaw clenched, her shoulders stiff as she feels the tension between everyone. Havingherself viewed as a freak made her much more defensive.
"I'llgo get thedoctor." Dolls said, andbriskly exited the room.
The room door opened a second time and an older man with grey short hair entered. He looked atNicole and approached her.
"You're awake." He said, his face stern as he noticed the IV tubeon the floor. "I'm glad to see you're better. I'm Doctor Harrison."
"When can I leave?" Nicole asked.
Doctor Harrison scoffed.
"I highly advise you stay at least a day with the amount of injuries you came in with last night." He said. "Let me check your vitals."
Nicole took a seat onthe edge of the bed. Doctor Harrison put on his stethoscope and pressed the end of it to her chest. He listened for a moment then looked over the bandage around herwrist and the stitches on her forehead.
"You've stabilized and I'm honestly surprised you're moving at this moment." Doctor Harrison said. "You have bruised ribs and had a possible concussion when you were brought in.Tobe safe you willneed to stay the night."
Nicole ran a hand through her hair. The sooner she can leave the hospital the better. Everything about it made her uneasy.
"Do you remember anything?" Doctor Harrison asked. "Do you know who attacked you?"
Nicole shook her head and answered, "I don't remember anything."
The door swished open a third timewith a soft knock on the doorframe. An older man with a thick mustache, wearinga navy blue uniform stood in the doorway. Nicole caught the glimmer of abadge pinned to the left pocketof his uniform shirt.
"Excuse me doctor. I was told the patient is finally conscious." He said,spottingNicole. "Do you mind if we have a few words?"
Nicole watched the sheriff of Purgatory, Nedley, frown and his bushy brows knitted together. He flipped through the pages of his tiny notebook, pencil in hand. He tapped the end of it against the page and let outa sigh. The interview lasted longer than she expected and he seemed more frazzled with the situation the longer it carried on.
"Let me get this straight." He said, lifting his head from the notes he had taken, frustration etched into his drooping brow. "You were attacked last night and your injuries looked like a bear mauling, but you don't know who or what attacked you?"
"It was dark and the only thing I thought about was getting away." Sheanswered.
"Purgatory has a long history of strange andviolent incidents, just a few days ago a girl was found on the outskirts of town, decapitated." Nedley said. "I have to be honest; I don't think your encounter was anything normal. Are youkeepingsomething from me?"
"That's all I can remember sheriff." Nicole said.
Nedley nodded and stood, stuffing thenotebook back into his jacket pocket.
"If you remember anything don't hesitate to call me." He said, fishing out a small business card from his pocket.
He handed it to Nicole and paused at the door to give her a second glance.
"You're not a local, so I think you should know," He said. "It's best you keep to yourself during your stay Ms. Haught."
Hestraightenedthe flaps of his jacket and left. Nicole settled back into her bed,anxiety coursing through her, her hands curled into fists. She'd rather not spend another day here. She had other things to worry about like the hunters, and if they would come back. There was a knock on her door before it opened and Waverly brisked her way into the room.
"You're still here?" Nicole asked.
Waverly smiled and placed a hand on Nicole's.
"Of course," She said. "I can tell how much you hate being here and it doesn't help that you don't have anyone in town. You don't have anywhere to stay either, once you get out."
Nicole shrugged. She didn't plan onstayingin townonce she was released, but she hadn't the slightest idea where to go either. Her family split up and could be anywhere throughout the country now. She couldn't exactly go back home either.
"I'm just passing through." She said. "I can find my way out of here just fine."
"Listen," Waverly said, hesitatingly. "I know you don't want to be here any longer than you should, but I think spending thenight isn't a bad idea. At least so the doctors,and I,know for sure you're okay. I'll even visit you tomorrow. AndI already spoke to Wynonna. You can crash at our place until you're back on your feet again."
Waverly gave her a dazzling smile that Nicole found softening her resolve the longer she looked atit.
"What do you say?"
Nicole felt the wave of exhaustion crash down onher. Between the attack, the conversation with Nedley, and the doctor she needed a little more rest to get up and going again. As much as she hated to admit it.
"Yeah, okay." Nicole agreed. "Thank you."
Waverly rubbed her forearm, a bright-eyed smile on her face.
"Don't mention it." She said. "I'll see you in the morning. Do you like bagels?"
Nicole cracked a soft smile and chuckled as her stomach grumbled.
"Bagelssound good." She said.
"I'll get a nurse before I leave and I will see you tomorrow with coffee and bagels." Waverly said.
Shequicklyhugged Nicole before dashing out. Nicole settled back into bed, continuing to smile as she watched Waverly through the windowspeakingwith a nurse at the counter. She turned back toward Nicole's room and waved before she left.
The nurse sent to tend to Nicole's wounds arrived at 8am sharp. She peeled back the gauze on Nicole'sleft forearm. The nurse blinked, dumbfounded.The skin around the edges of the sutures are faded pink.
"What?" The nurse gapedat Nicole. "How didyou…"
Just thenthe door opened and Waverly marched inside, bright-eyed and grinning with a brown paper bag in one hand and flowers in theother.
"Hey, I didn't know if you'd be up this early, but I'm here, as promised." Waverly said, settling beside Nicole. Settingthe flower vase on the side table.
"Thank you, they're beautiful." Nicole said, looking over the blue, white, and yellow flowers.
"And, bagels." Waverly said,handing Nicolethe paper bag.
The nurse stepped toward the door.
"I'm going to get some scissors." She said.
Nicole uncovered her bagel from its paper wrapping and chomped into it. Waverly looked her over and studied the suture marksprotruding from Nicole's forearms.
"You weren't kidding about healing fast." Waverly said. "Didn't you get attacked two days ago?"
There's a knock on the door before it's opened and Dr. Harrison enters, a look of confusion on his face.
"The nurse told me you needed your stitches removed?" He said.
He examined Nicole's wounds and gave a perplexed hum. He glanced back at her, his brows furrowed. Nicole shrugged.
"I guess I'll be getting you a release form then." Dr. Harrison said. "If anything happens don't hesitate to comesee me again."
As he opened the door the nurse had returned with a pan and scissors. Nicole had finished the first half of her bagel by then and placed the remaining piece on the counter.
"Alright, let's get started." Thenurse said.
Nicole watched her roll up her sleeve and snipthe first stitch.
"Alright, you're all set sweetheart." The nurse said. "Waverly is waiting for you in the lobby. You're very lucky to heal this quickly."
Nicolegraspedthe nurse's forearm just as she turned away to pick up the surgical tray. Nicole smiled, her expression contrasting oddly with her stern eyes.
"Thank you," Nicole glanced at the name-tag on her chest. "Deb, I really appreciate your help."
Deb's eyes became vacant and dreamy. Nicole brushed a thumb over her arm. Deb smiled the same airy spaced out look on her face.
"Oh, no problem dear. I'm glad to help." Deb said.
"I'd appreciate it if you kept this between us." Nicole said.
"Oh, of course sweetie, patient confidentiality." Deb said.
Nicole gave her arm a firm squeeze. Deb sighed.
"Even between the doctors, and everyone else within this facility. You've never seen me and there isn't any record of me ever being here either. Do you understand?" Nicole said.
"Yes dear." She said.
"Would you mind cleaning up the paperwork for me? I know it'll be a hassle, but I'd appreciate it." Nicole said.
Deb smiled and said, "Sure thing honey."
"I'd like to speak to Dr. Harrison one last time. Could you have him stop by for a moment? I understand he's a busy man, but it's important." Nicole said.
"Of course."
"Thank you Deb."
Nicole released her and the spaced expression from Deb's face washed away. She blinked and looked confused between Nicole and her now perfectly healed arm.
"Sorry honey, I've been working double shifts lately. I must have zoned out." Deb said. "I'll have Dr. Harrison come seeyou one last time before you go."
She left with the tray of sutures. Nicole got out of bed, pulling down the sleeves of her shirt. The door opened a second after the first knock.
"You wanted to see me Ms. Haught?" Dr. Harrison asked.
10 minutes later Waverly greeted her in the lobby with her usual bright-eyed grin.
"There you are. That took long." She said.
"Dr. Harrison wanted to speak with me before I left." Nicole said. "He still can't believe I'm leaving."
Waverly headed toward the sliding double doors and said, "I don't blame him."
They entered the parking lot. The brisk cold of winter brushing at their faces.
"Myjeep is not far from here." Waverly said.
Nicole picked out a black and red jeep to the right. Thewindow to the passenger side slid down as they came closer. A man with short brown hair poked his head out, a frown of agitation on his face.
"Babe, what took you so long?" He whined. "I got to head back to the rodeo."
Waverly opened the passenger door.
"I have to go back to the homestead before I can drop you off." Waverly said.
Champ groaned and finally noticed Nicole.
"Who is she?" He asked.
Waverly scoffed.
"This is Nicole. She's the girl I told you about. Thatwe foundin the barn, remember?"
"Oh shit! She lived?" Champ asked shocked.
Waverly let out an irritated sigh.
"Nicole this is Champ, my boyfriend."
Champ waved and said, "Sup."
Nicole eyed him.
"Hi." She said.
"What are you doing out so soon?" Champ asked.
"Champ, stop making it sound like she gotout ofjail! She was in the hospital, overnight."
Waverlyscolded, facing Nicole. "Sorry about that."
Nicole shrugged and said, "Don't worry about it."
"Can we go now?" Champ groaned.
Waverly rolled her eyes before moving to the driver seat. Champ shuffled overasNicole hopped into the back.
The homestead had been an old ricketylooking shack, but Waverly had explained it had been abandoned formanyyears. Nicole could see the place needed a new paint job and the field looked different than she remembered. A fresh blanket of snow covered the grass and a small path had been shoveled leading to the front porch. Nicole followed Waverly inside and she entered the kitchen, picking up a bag from the table.
"I bought you somenew clothes." Waverly said. "Since the onesyou hadare well, covered in blood and torn. I hope they fit."
Nicole accepted the bag and lookedthrough the contents.
"Oh, you didn't have to." Nicole said. "Butthanks."
A long honk from infront of the housesounded.
"Babe!" Champ called.
"You can take Willa's old room. Upstairs,it's the last room down the hall." Waverly said. "Make yourself at home. I have a shift at Shorty's, but I'll be back some time latertonight."
Another honk sounded. Nicole's jaw clenched.
"I have to go, but I'll see you tonight." Waverly said.
Thefrontdoor slammed behind her as she left. Nicole watched asthe jeep pulledout and drove off.
Willa's room is small and decorated to tailor a twelve year old girl's taste.Purple floral wallpaper, shelf of stuffed animals, and a pink desk, with equally vibrant colored gel pens. It feltempty and forgotten, not a single item out of place as if left as amemorial. Nicole hesitatedpullingback the quilt until a wave of exhaustion hit her. She settled intothebed, staring at the ceiling for a moment, sighing. She doubted she would be getting any sleep tonight.
Nicole is up before dawn, tired from rolling aroundin the strangebed allnight, unsettled and anxious. Having decided she needed to do something other than rolling around fruitlessly in bed.She changed into a pair of jeans and a blue button up shirt Waverlygotfor her. She triedcarefully to move through the halls, but an old place likethis had plenty of loose floor boards, and constantly creaked, even as the slight breeze cut through the house. She made it into the kitchen and lookedthrough the fridge. Nicole got the coffee maker running first,desperatelyin need of a caffeine boost to make it through the day on almost nosleep. She waited for it to beep and made sure to make extrafor Waverly, in caseshe had come home lastnight. Nicole took her time to take a few sips from her mug before she took out the carton of eggs and somebacon. The skillet on the stove wassizzling with the strips of bacon when the frontdoor opened.
"Waverly, we have a problem. A bunch of asshole revenants think they can one up me and Peacemaker, again!"
The stomp of boots marchedinto the living room. Nicole turned around.
"Oh, uh...you're here. Hey."
"Hi Wynonna." Nicole greeted.
Wynonna rubbed the back of her neck and smiled, glancingaround the homestead.
"Is Waverly here by any chance?" Wynonna inquired.
"I'm not sure. I didn't hear her come in last night." Nicole said. "Uh, coffee?"
"Sure."
Nicolefilled another mug when Wynonna spun around and started stompingup the stairs.
"Waverly!"
Nicole isn't sure how much milk to use but pourssomein any way, adding some sugaras well,before exiting the kitchen. Waverly fumbled to the top of the stairsas Wynonna strode up. Her hair a tousled mess, and stillrubbing her eyes.
"Wynonna?" Waverly asked.
"Uh, we got a thing to talk about. Remember?" Wynonna said.
"A wha...oh, okay." Waverly realized.
Wynonna snagged the mug from Nicole's hands as she continued up the stairs.
"Thanks." She said, reachingWaverly at the top.
She took a sip of her cup and cringed and handed it to Waverly. The door to Waverly's room slammed shut.
By the timethe eggs and bacon are cookedand Nicole is seated at the small diningtable, Waverly'sdoor creaked open and Wynonna is rushing down the stairs again. Waverly is hot on her trail, pausingin the living room seeing Nicole finish the last of her breakfast. Wynonna came over to the coffee maker, pouring herself a cup.
"I just gave you a cup." Nicole said.
Wynonna chuckled.
"Wynonna likes her coffee black." Waverly said.
"Two sugars." Wynonna added.
She left the kitchen, mug in hand. Waverly approached Nicole.
"I have to go." She said. "Wynonna needs my help, but you're welcome to stay while I'm out."
Waverly noticed the second plate in front of Nicole.
"Did you...oh, I'm sosorry." She apologized. "I can't-"
"It's okay, I understand." Nicole said.
"Next time." Waverly hugged Nicole. "Hey,you should come visit me at Shorty's tonight. Also, the shirt fits perfectly, huh?"
"Waverly!" Wynonna shouted.
"Oh, I got to go. Bye!"
Waverly ran out.
"Will you move your ass?!" Wynonna complained.
Later that day after cleaning the kitchen and putting away the leftover food from breakfast, Nicole had decided to take Waverly up on her invitation. Nicole remembered her way into town, but had to walk through the snow to get there. She doesn't think she can spend theday holed upinside the homestead after spending almost two days stuck in the hospital. There isn't a TV, or a working phone. She's about half a mile in when a familiar black SUV pullsup. The window rollsdown. Wynonna couldn't control the look of utter confusion when she pulled up to Nicole.
"What are you doing?" She asked.
"Heading into town." Nicole said.
NicolenoticedWynonna'sbrow arch, most likely wondering if Nicole had hit her head harder than expected. No one would walk into town in thiscold; it had to be at least a three mile walk.
"Why?"
Nicole sighed. "I can't spend the entire daystuckat the homestead. I needsome fresh air."
"Get in. I'll take you." Wynonna said.
They pull into town, stoppingin front of Shorty's. The town of Purgatory is tiny, and from the looks of it Shorty's had been the main source of entertainment. Everyone had their ownproblems to drink away. Nicole strode in, examining the place, takingin the décor and the customers. She sawthe memorabilia littering the walls related to Wyatt Earp. Several of the customers are glaring at her, others justwatching, while manytoo drunk to care. Nicole inhaled, picking up a strange scent from the mix of the patronsclenching her fist. She spotted Waverly working behind the bar, thencrossingthe floor with a tray of beers. Nicole sat at the bar counterasWaverly returned with thenowempty tray.
"Hey you made it!" Waverly said. "Can I get you anything?"
"Oh no, I don't have any money,"
"On the house." Waverly insisted. "What'll you have?"
"A beer is fine." Nicole answered.
"You got it," Waverly filled a glassfrom the taps, placingit in front ofNicole on a coaster.
Champ went behind the counterand pulled Waverly into a somewhat reluctant looking hug.
"Hey babe, let's get out of here. Leave a little early tonight, huh?" Hebegged.
"Champ, I'm busy right now." Waverly said. "Shorty's isalways busy on Friday nights. I can't leave."
Champ frowned.
"Fine.I'llhave another drink then." He said.
Waverly filled a tumblerwith whiskey and he took it, returning back to his chair across the bar. Waverly pushed a piece of hair from her face, flustered. Another man approached the bar, and ordered a drink. Nicole tookher time sipping thebeer, watching customerscome and go. Waverly had been too busy to speak with Nicole as the bar filled up.She noticedShorty sorely neededanother server and only had two bartenders. Wynonna showed up after her shift, around 6pm,with Dolls and another man. He hada thick mustache and worea cowboy hat. Wynonna reached over the bar counter grabbinga bottle of whiskey andtook a swig. Waverly had just returned from serving somecustomers and handed the trio some glasses.
"Why, I do not believe we have met." The cowboy said. "JohnHenry Holliday, but everyonecalls me Doc."
"Nicole Haught."
"She's the one we told you about." Dolls said.
"My, you look as healthy as an ox. Far fromthe stateWynonna saidtheyhadfound you in." Doc noted.
He knocked back his drink and refilled his glass.
"I was just lucky." Nicole said.
Doc eyed her and lifted his drink.
"Welcome to Purgatory. Best keep your nose clean. Things around these parts tend to turn south real quick." Doc said.
He excused himself, taking his whiskey and joining a table of poker players. She felt Dolls' eyes on her as he took a sip. A strange scent of brimstone and sulfur hit her nostrils. She looked him over.
"How are you feeling?" Dolls asked.
"Better. I hate hospitals." Nicole said.
He gave a nod of agreement and took another sip.
"What are you?" Nicole said.
Dolls' stiffened.
"A Black Badge agent. It's a covertorganization." He said.
Nicole raised a brow "That's not what I meant."
The tension between them increased, but Dolls kept his stoic exterior. Wynonna bumped his arm.
"Let's go finish off this bottle." She said.
"Be careful what you stick your nose into Haught." Dolls said, before departing.
Nicolegazefollowedthemas she leaned back into the counter and gulped her beer.
Nicoleonlyallowed Waverly to buy her theonedrink,seeing asshe lost her money during theattack and would not take advantage of Waverley's obviously generous nature. She stayed behind while Waverly finished up her shiftat around 2am. Wynonna had been long gone with Dolls, leaving with the bottle she grabbed from behind the bar.
Waverlywalked out of thestockroom.
"I'm almost done closing up. Meet me in the back." Waverly told her.
Nicole braced herself as she stood in the cold dark alleyway, squinting at the lack of adequatelights. She could makeout Waverly's jeep. She exhaled and watched a puff of her breath release into the air. Suddenly there's a clunk from the right of the alley and Nicole spunaround. The noise moved left tothe trash cans across from her. A pair of glowing red eyes cut through the dark of the alley witha low growl. Nicole took her hands out of her pockets and clenched her fists. A man with a black Mohawk and thick black and blonde beard approached her.
"Who the hell are you?" He asked.
Nicole watched him carefully. He chuckled.
"I know a newbie when I see one. What the hell is your kind doing in my town?" He spat the question.
Nicole glared. "Who are you?"
He grinned and answered, "Name's Bobo Del Ray. You'd be smart to remember it."
Bobo's eyes glowed red again.
"What are you?" Nicole questioned.
He chuckled.
"I don't like your sortaround here. I hope you're passing through." Bobo said. "I'd hate to have to set you straight."
"What I do isn't your business." Nicole said.
The back door opened and Waverly exited. Bobo took a step back. Waverly looked, worriedlybetween them.
He let out another growl.
"This isn't your territory. You better remember that." Bobo said, walking away.
"What was that?" Waverly asked.
"Hejustcameup tome." Nicole said.
"Bobo is someone you don't want to speak to." Waverly warned. "He's...he has a bad reputation around here, just avoid him. Let's get out of here."
A week had passed and eventually Nicole fell into a routineof waking up early to help with the homestead, cook breakfast, clean the dishes, straighten up the home, and stop at Shorty's. She stayed every time for the entire duration of Waverly's shift. She'd even come with her during lunch breaks. Today fora change, Nicole had decided to sleep in, or at least she tried, whenawful clangingrangfrom down below. Nicole stumbled out of bed, stretching and yawning, rubbing the sleep from her eyes as she made her way to the living room. The clatterof pots comingfrom the kitchen.
"Can you keep it down?" Waverly said. "Nicole is sleeping."
Wynonna scoffed and said, "That moocher? She ought to do something usefulduring her free stay."
"Wynonna!" Waverly scolded.
"I'm just saying." Wynonna defended.
She turned away from the coffee pot and paused with a mug in her hand at seeingNicole in the doorway.
"Hiya." Wynonna said.
Waverly rushed to the table with two plates of eggs, bacon, and sausages.Setting them down with a nervous smile.
"Come sit. I made enough for all three of us." Waverly said.
Wynonna stuffed her face, completely ignoring the factshe had been caught bad-mouthing Nicole. The silence felttense between the three of them.
Waverly coughed. "So, uh, how are you feeling, Nicole? Do you remember anything, yet?"
Nicole glanced between the two sisters.
"Well, I-" She started but was cut short by the front door opening to reveal Dolls. He entered the living room where the three women were seated.
"Earp." He said. "There's a case that just came up and I need all the help I can get."
Wynonna stood, her mug still in hand.
"What's wrong?" Nicole asked.
Dolls gave her a stern gaze. "That's classified."
Wynonna brushed passed him and he followed her ontothe porch. Nicole watched as they left,before turning back to the table.
"What was that about?" She asked, as Waverly finished her eggs.
"He works for a division of the Marshals in cooperation with the local police at the station." Waverly supplied. "He helps deal with the strange cases the cops can't figure out."
"Strange?" Nicole said.
Waverly's smile faltereda moment. She glanced at her hands cupping amug.
"Therearea lot of strange things in Purgatory. It has a long history of unusual things." Waverly said.
"My um, Uncle Curtis died a few months agobefore Wynonna came back into town. He was ripped apart. They said it was a wolf attack."
"Oh, that's horrible. I'm so sorry." Nicole said. "You don't think it was a wolf, do you?"
Waverly shook her head.
"But that's because of the history my family has with violent deaths." Waverly said. "But there have been other cases. Not long ago,a few miles outside oftown, they found a woman decapitated."
Nicole frowned.
"Did they find who did it?"
"No, there aren't any leads."
A knock sounded from the front door and itswung open asChamp sauntered in.
"Hey Babe." He said, leaning overto give Waverlya kiss. "I came to give you a ride towork."
"I told you, my shift doesn't start untilnoon." Waverly reminded him.
Champ sighed when he noticed the plates in front of Nicole and Waverly.
"Well, I guess we can't go out to breakfast noweither."
Nicole shifted in her chair asWaverly finished her meal.
"Nicole and I were enjoying breakfast together for a change." Waverly saidcheerfully.
"No really, it's okay." Nicole said. "You guyscan head out. I'll be fine."
"You're sure?" Waverly placed a hand on her wrist for a moment.
Nicole nodded.
"Lunch at the town on my break?" Waverly said. "It's the least I can since I'm skipping out on breakfast with you."
Nicole smiled, saying, "Yeah I'd like that."
"It's one me." Waverly said, clearing the table before getting ready to leave. Nicole waved as Waverlygave her one last glance and left with Champ.
There had only been one decent dinner in Purgatory and that was Joe's that they often spent Waverly's lunch breaks at. The apple pie was the best thing on the menu, but the burgers weren't so bad, and the pricing was manageable. Nicole had been glad to get anything although she missed a good home cooked meal as hefty as her mother's when she visited more often. Waverly ordered a cappuccino, loaded with sugar and whipped cream, along with a stack of waffles. Nicole noticed she had a sweet tooth, more so than Wynonna, but she often drank her whiskey neat and tequila without any lime or salt as her normal drink of choice. While, Waverly, the occasional drink stuck with a beer or a cup or two of whiskey, and Wynonna could out drink her any given day. Nicole settled on a cheese burger, fries, and a soda. She skipped the pie as the bill would be costly enough with her meal, especially since Waverly is paying.
"So," Nicole said, dipping a fry into her ketchup. "The plaque at Shorty's. Wyatt Earp. Any relation?"
"He's our great granddad." Waverly said. "He lived in Purgatory too. As a Sheriff deputy."
"I gotta say, I don't see Wynonna as the law enforcement type." Nicole said.
"That's complicated." Waverly said. "Wynonna and I have had a rough upbringing since mom left. And daddy...he hadn't been the same since. He drank a lot."
Nicole frowned.
"What happened to him?"
Waverly cringed, looking at the table for a moment before saying, "He died. It wasn't the drinking that did it. There was an accident."
Nicole stretched a hand out and placed a reassuring hand on to Waverly's forearm.
"I'm sorry. I shouldn't have brought it up." Nicole said.
"It was years ago. I was six, but Wynonna she's old enough to remember everything." Waverly said.
"I lost my dad too." Nicole said. "He was killed. I couldn't deal with it and left home. I kind of wish I didn't. My brother hasn't been able to forgive me since and that was a year ago."
Nicole sighed, willing away the pang of sadness. Waverly looked at her, a face of pity.
"You lost your dad a year ago?" Waverly said, startled.
Nicole nodded.
"Oh I am so sorry." Waverly whispered.
"Don't worry about it." Nicole said. "My family will get through it."
Nicole brushed a piece of hair from her eyes, slathering two of her fries into more ketchup.
"I've been thinking." She said. "It's about time I leave the homestead. You know, find a new place to settle in."
Waverly looked up from her utensils, her hands still in mid cut of her waffles.
"What? So soon?" She said.
Nicole sighed.
"I've been here long enough. I need to get back on my feet." Nicole said.
"B-But you can't!" Waverly said. "I mean, is it because of Wynonna? She doesn't mean it."
Nicole raised a brow.
"Wynonna is probably the most brutally honest out of everyone here." Nicole said. "Which is probably why the town hates her so much."
Waverly sighed, a furrow of worry etched on her brows.
"Yeah, okay." Waverly said. "But please, stay. I like having you around and it's nice for a change to have someone always around to talk to. You don't judge me, or Wynonna, even with the rumors my family has. It means a lot having you around."
Waverly reached over the table, gripping Nicole's hand.
"Please?" Waverly said. "I'll talk to Wynonna. Just don't leave? I like you."
Nicole smiled, watching a faint blush creep into Waverly's cheeks. She glanced down at their linked hand.
"Okay, I'll stay." Nicole agreed.
Waverly let out a sigh of relief. They ate their meal with occasional silence and somesmall talk about the day during Waverly's shift. How she had gotten into an argument with Champ, but from what Nicole has seen,sheis surprised they don't argue more often. Waverly has too much patience is a lot nicerthan Nicole would ever be to a guy like him. Even Wynonna had a dislike for him. The waiter came with bill and they made their way toward the door, shrugging on their coats.
"I'm gonna head back to the homestead." Nicole said.
"Oh, want me to drive you?" Waverly offered.
"It's alright. I don't want you to be late." Nicole said. "I could use the walk. Don't worry about buying any firewood. I got Wynonna to sharpen your old axe in the barn and will chop down a few trees for the chimney."
"But, the chimney hasn't worked in years." Waverly said.
Nicole smiled.
"I got that sorted out too." Nicole said. "See you tomorrow morning."
Waverly smiled, watching Nicole walk through the sidewalk.
Nicole finished felling and choppinguptwo trees before the sun set. Exhausted, she wobbled back into the homestead, the wheel barrel on the porch full of splinted wood and a pile in her hands. When she stacked all the wood temporally in the living room, she settled on the couch in need of a nap. Hours later, A loud crashfrom the kitchen sounded and on reflex Nicole jumped to her feet, her hands clenched. She noticed the homestead dark and the sun long gone. Nicole rushed into the kitchen ready to strike. Shepausedto see the broken dishes scattered acrossthe floor. A vibrant orange, fluffy cat sat a few feet away from thescene, staring at Nicole and meowed. Nicole sighed, her shoulders dropping. Then scanned the kitchen for any further damage and noticed the opened window.
"Shae?" Nicole asked.
The cat let out another mewl then gradually began to grow largerbefore her and ultimatelytransform into a tall, slender, bronze skinned, nakedwoman. She stood, unabashed in her exposed form.
"How did you...are you okay?" She said.
"I'm fine. I heard what happened. The hunters didn't attack us. I've been helping as much as I can. It looks like they were only after your pack." Shae said. "It hasn't beeneasy to find you. You didn't leave much of a trail."
Nicole's face softened.
"Iwassent to findyou when things settled down. I've been ordered to keep an eyeon you." Shae said.
Nicole's eyes glimmered with the beginning oftears.
"How is everyone?"
"We're all terrified.Wescatteredacrossthe country." Shae said. "We need youto reunite us. What are you still doing here?"
"Before we fled, my mother ordered me to hide." Nicole said. "They wouldn't expect me to hide in a town like this one. We all need to heal andrecover after the attack."
Shae looked her over.
"Your wounds have healed." She noted.
"I wasn't talking about myself.And not only from the physical wounds" Nicole said. "We lost a lot ofgood people. Now we have to takethe time mourn the lossand prepare theburial rights."
"There's more." Shae said. "The hunters, they're using stronger and more advanced weaponry. It's become more difficultfor us to heal and treat our wounded."
Nicole's jaw unclenched.
"We need you." Shae repeated.
"I've been given strict instructions. I need to stayin hiding." Nicole said. "As much as I want to help, thereare larger things at stake. If these weapons are as dangerous asyou say, I need to remain safe until we've regained our strength and come up with a plan ofattack."
Shae glanced down, hesitant to speak.
"I don't know."
"They killed my father." Nicole said. "I want more than anything tohuntthem down, but they also stole the relic. If they learnto use it things can be far worse."
"You haven't seen us out there. You've been too busy hidingbehind the safety of these walls to see how much we need you." Shae said.
Nicole glared. "My orders are clear. Until then Istay."
Shae nodded.
"You shouldn't have come. What if I wasn't alone and they saw you?" Nicole said.
"I've been watching you with the humans for a few days." Shae said. "I know their schedules."
"For your safety, it's probably better you shift unless it'sabsolutely necessary." Nicole ordered.
"Okay." She droned, shrinking back intoher catformagain.
Nicole watched her jump on the counter and leap out the window. Then turned to clean up the mess Shea caused.
It has been three days since Shea had revealed her presence. Nicole was used to the rhythm at the homestead and the lives of the two sisters who had taken her in. Waverly was bubbly and warm, caring and welcoming with the kindest heart. She sure had a reputation that the locals loved about her, Nicole too had found it endearing about Waverly. Wynonna, more skeptical and sarcastic, but getting used to her being there and even sharing a friendly drink with her on occasion. Even if Nicole was sure it had more to do with Wynonna not wanting to drink alone while Waverly was at work or with Champ. But she would do anything for Waverly and their bond had been strong. For a change Waverly is home early from her shift at Shorty's and Nicole picked up the shuffle of her feet as she walkedthrough the homestead. The footsteps traveled in a steady, repeatedstepto and fro as Nicole entered the living room. Waverly paced around the couch with the cellphone pressed to her ear.
"What?!" She gasped. "How did she...is she okay?"
Waverly's face is etched with worryand frustration.
"Right, I …just get her back safe Dolls." Waverly said.
She hung up and sighed.
"What's wrong?"
"Hey, sorry, did I wake you?" Waverly said.
"Don't worry about it."
Waverly ran a hand through her hair.
"That was Dolls. Wynonna got caught in a hostage situation. She's with Champ and Shorty." Waverly stated.
"What? Is there anything we can do?" Nicole said, shocked.
"No, Dolls said he's got everything under control." Waverly said.
Nicole scoffed.
"He said if the kidnappersfind out they've been followed it can escalate the danger of the situation." Waverly told her.
"I'msosorry," Nicole pulled her into a hug. "I'm sure everything will be okay."
"I just...I'm so worried."
Nicole rubbed acomfortinghand up and down Waverly's back.
"I don't think I can justsithere and wait for news." Waverly said.
Nicole rummaged through the fridge and pulled out a bottle of Wild Turkey from the back. She took Waverly by her hand.
"Come on." She said. "Let's have a drink."
"What? What are you…?" Waverly stopped mid sentence to follow Nicole.
Nicole led her out of the house grabbinga coat from the rack before exiting and walking toward the barn. Nicole turned around, seeing Waverly shrugon the jacket to beat the chill, hesitating a moment before following.
"You need a distraction. I knowyou can't just hang aroundhere worryingand pacing a hole in the floor." Nicole said.
Waverly let out a weak chuckle. She walkedover to Nicole and they sat on the hay scatteredground. Nicole passed the bottle to Waverlyto takethe first sip, cringing as it burned down her throat. She handed the bottle back toNicole, whotook a larger gulp with less of a grimace.
"Aren't you cold?" Waverly asked.
Nicole handed her back the bottle and shrugged.
"Not really."
"Let me guess, you don't get cold?" Waverly said.
Nicole grinned. Takingback the bottle and took three swigs.
"You heal fast; you aren't bothered by the cold." Waverly listed. "There is a lot I don't seem to know about you."
"Stick around and you'll see." Nicole said almost teasing.
Theyhad finished off about half the bottleand Waverly had started togetwobbly, wearing a dopey smilethat Nicole couldn't look away from.Waverly was looking awfully cute. Nicole, on the other hand, feltlittle to noeffects from the alcohol. In her current stateWaverly didn't seem to notice. The bottle was placed off tothe side, while they lay downon the ground, staring up atthe ceiling of the barn.
"Wynonna is lucky to have you." Nicole whispered.
Waverlyrolled her head to the sidelooking at Nicole. A bright-eyed grin on her face.
"You do a lot for her and you're one hell of an asset." Nicole said. "I saw the papers you have up on the wall. Something tells me you're much more than justa history buff."
"It's complicated." Waverly said.
Nicole rolled over, laying on her side, softly brushinga piece of hair from Waverly's face.
"Try me."
Waverlymoves, mirroring Nicole's position.
"Do you believe in curses?" Waverly asked.
"Like the whole voodoo thing?" Nicole said.
"Something like that, except it's about us, Earps." Waverly said.
Nicole's brows knit together. Waverly paused a moment. Nicole watched as Waverly contemplates her words or even if she should be telling Nicole anything at all.
"It's okay." Nicole said. "You don't have to tell me."
"No I..." Waverly said, sighing. "I shouldn't have drank so muchWhiskey"
Nicole smiled.
"But, I'm glad we did this." Waverly added. "Thank you."
"Of course."
Nicole reached over, stroking another strand ofhair behind Waverly's ear, and thenscooted closer reachingbehind Waverly's head. Her thumb rubbed slowcircles into the back of Waverly'sneck. Waverly sighed, relishing the warmth and comfort she felt in Nicole's presence, feeling some tension leave her shoulders .
"You're burning up." Waverly said.
"I run a little warmer than usual." Nicole said. "Nothing to worry about."
Waverly let out a contented sigh as Nicole pressed her thumb with slightly more pressureonto the tense muscles of Waverly'sneck, working out a knot. Waverly's eyes soon started toslowly droop, struggling to stay awake, getting sweptaway bythe caressing touch on her neck.
"Let's go inside." Nicole whispered.
"Okay." Waverly yawned, before she was finally overcome by sleep.
Nicole smiled, watching as she began to softlysnore next to her. Placinga gentle kiss on her forehead, shescooped Waverly into her arms, cradling her as she left the barn.