He was watching her; she could feel his eyes and others on her as she stepped down from the stage coach. In a small dusty town like Four Corners, there were always people watching. No matter, it was home. A home she'd been away from for far too long. It felt good to be back.
"Brandy!" a light voice called, grabbing her attention. Looking up she saw her best friend and cousin, Mary Travis cross the dusty street. The willow thin woman had a bright smile on her face, light blue gingham dress swaying as she walked.
"Mary!" Brandy reached out to hug the other woman, so glad to see her family. She then brushed her maple brown hair out of her green eyes. "Where's Billy?"
"He's with Judge and Mrs. Travis during the school year. We haven't had a chance to set up one here yet."
"Well. Who is this lovely lady with you Mary?" a tall, dark haired gunslinger sauntered up to them, grin on his face. Brandy saw Mary catch herself before she rolled her eyes.
'So this one is Buck. He is handsome, but not the one I'm wanting to get to know.'
"Buck, this is my cousin Brandy Williams. Brandy, Buck is one of the seven I wrote you about."
"Only good things I hope."
As they spoke, a man in a buffalo hide jacket stepped up and took the trunk and four bags from the stagecoach driver. His hat covered his head, but Brandy knew his eyes to be a cool light blue, the color of a summer sky. Having expressed interest in the tracker to her cousin, Mary had begun to include more details about him.
'Vin.' Her heart sped up slightly.
Brandy dug in her satchel for coins to pay the stagecoach driver to distract herself. Hoping she wasn't blushing and that Mary wasn't grinning Brandy stepped up beside Vin. As she handed over the gold coins she spoke over her shoulder,
"Good things, yes. Truthful things, absolutely."
"That hurts Mary." Buck shook his head.
"At least, Mr. Wilmington, with her knowledge of your reputation, we will all be spared your attempts to woo her."
'Ezra. Who else speaks so eloquently to hide the forked tongue of the devil himself.'
"Greetings, Mr. Standish." Brandy offered her hand to the suave gambler, unable to hide her grin at the sound of Buck sputtering.
"A pleasure to meet any woman who has the ability to off put Mr. Wilmington so eloquently. Miss …?
"Brandy Williams." She knew the question that was coming next.
"Like the drink?" a young man in a bowler hat inquired. All of the seven protectors of the town had gathered around the two women. It was a sight Four Corners had grown accustomed to in the year and a half the men had been in town.
"Indeed J.D., my uncle had a sense of humor when my cousin was born." Mary answered. It was an old joke between the two women.
"Beautiful name for a beautiful lady."
'My. Josiah is taller than I thought he would be.' He was a bear of a man, taller and more solidly built that the rest of the men. Nathan stood a little further back as Chris stepped up beside Mary.
"Some wouldn't agree Mr. Sanchez." Brandy picked up the small leather bound case at her feet. Turning to her cousin she sighed happily.
"However, it is good to be home."
Vin watched as Mary greeted the woman from the stagecoach. Whoever she was stood nearly a head shorter than the newspaper woman. She was also more shapely, drawing the eye to full hips covered in a dark brown traveling dress. Her hair was long, nearly to her waist, wavy and almost the color of his own mahogany.
Glancing around he made his way across the street. Buck, always scenting a fresh conquest, had already approached the two women. Rolling his eyes at the sight of the stagecoach driver struggling with the new woman's luggage Vin stepped up to help.
"Where do you want us to take your luggage?" Vin asked and was surprised by how green the woman's eyes were. They were almost the color of the jade amulet the Chinese man had tried paying them with a few months ago.
"If I can borrow a wagon, I'll be able to take my things home just outside of town."
'Satin. That's what her voice sounds like.'
"Hopefully you won't have too much cleaning to do. I've been going out and tidying up since I got your letter." Mary reached down and picked up the smaller of the carpet bags. The men followed suit, Chris helping Vin with the trunk.
"It's only a short way to the livery and stables." Chris added, nodding to J.D., Ezra and Nathan who returned to their duties. "Then we'll get you settled."
Quickly everything was loaded into the wagon, Mary and Brandy sitting on the buckboard. Josiah then returned to the church down the street, leaving Chris, Buck and Vin to help the women. As he rode Peso and followed the wagon, Vin wondered what the hell had gotten into him.
The last time he'd had a reaction this strong, Charlotte had been the focus of his attention. The attraction was swift and fierce, hot and blinding. While it had been his choice to end their affair, that didn't mean it still didn't sting a bit. It had made him wary of any woman after that, sheltering his already guarded heart. Which is why he knew he was loco in the way he wanted to snatch the woman with Mary away from Buck. He had no claim to the woman.
Soon they came up to a house that was larger than the house Chris had built. While the home was older, it was well taken care of. The property was modestly sized; not as large as a ranch, but not a small homestead either.
"Gentlemen. Welcome to my home." Brandy gestured with a smile. "You can just place the luggage in the front parlor."
Vin kept quiet as Buck continued to try and win the affections of the new lady in town. He had a feeling though that the woman lover was wasting his breath. Yes, Brandy smiled, but it was thin and brittle. He even caught her and Mary rolling their eyes more than once when Buck wasn't looking. Even Chris rolled his eyes once.
"We need to get back to town." The black clad leaded finally spoke up. "Vin. Stay out here and help the ladies with the heavy lifting."
Brandy let out a sigh after Chris and Buck left, shaking her head. The black clad gunslinger set her on edge, but not in a necessarily bad way. His companion plain just got off her nerves. Then there was Vin, watching with those blue, blue eyes of his.
"Is Buck always like that?"
Vin chuckled. It was a warm sound, thrilling her straight to her toes. Needing to stay calm Brandy started opening the windows to let the breeze in. Mary laughed as well.
"Don't worry, the novelty will wear off soon."
"Buck will lay off soon enough." Vin agreed. "If not, you can always sic Inez on him."
Brandy was glad for the banter, helping to gather her thoughts. It was the first time home in five years. She was 30 years old with no marriage prospects, and had been poked fun at in the city. She hoped being back home and at a slower pace would ease her mind and let her hands work. She was an engraver and planned on joining Mary at the paper.
'Maybe Vin will notice me. He seems appealing and is nice.'
"Mr. Tanner, will you assist me in taking the trunk upstairs?" Mary was in the kitchen, having begun to unpack the small case that had dishware in it.
"Certainly ma'am." Brandy watched him lift the trunk all by himself before turning and leading him up the wide staircase. She tried very hard to not be self conscious as he followed her down the hall to the master bedroom, listening to his boots hitting the hardwood floors, spurs jingling. Opening a door she led him inside.
"Here you go Miss Williams." Vin's voice was nice and deep, yet light and warm. Brandy suppressed a shiver at the small smile on the trackers face.
"Brandy, please. I hope we can become friends." She felt herself blush as she saw the man's stance relax slightly. "Mary has told me much about the seven of you in her letters."
"Brandy." She shivered at the sound of her name on his lips. Vin tilted his head, eyes a bit darker in color than before. "Didn't know you owned this property. Had thought about makin' an offer for it at the bank."
Brandy was surprised and taken aback. This stranger hand wanted to buy her home, her property. It was a good thing she had come back when she did.
"Really? I suppose it's a good thing I'm home then. Word would have been slow to reach me in Texas.
Now Vin tensed. She knew he was wanted for a murder he didn't commit, but that was no reason to be shy about her past or where she was from. Giving him a chance to compose himself Brandy opened the windows in the room, feeling his eyes rake her from head to toe. She prayed he liked what he saw.
He did like what he saw, very much. He knew he shouldn't be standing alone with her in her bedroom, it just wasn't something done unless you were interested in something else entirely. He fought down the crazy urge to do something reckless, like walk right up to the woman and see if her lips did indeed taste like Brandy. At least Mary was coming up the stairs, her footfalls soft.
"Brandy's parents moved back to be closer to family." Mary appeared in the doorway. "If you don't need me, I'll head back to town."
"I'll ride back into town this afternoon to see about setting things up. Then I'll be over at the paper to set up shop."
"You workin' with Mary?" Vin looked between the two, both mirror opposites of each other.
Mary was tall, nearly as he was and slim, despite having been married and having a son. Blonde haired with blue eyes and pale skin. Brandy was shorter, head just reaching his shoulder. She was also more rounded than her cousin, plump and soft looking. It made his hands itch. Her hair was a riot of waves, brown and thick. Jade green eyes looked back from a face that was slightly tanner than that of Mary.
"Brandy will be the engraver for the Clarion. She's a very talented artist; one of the few women would do the job."
Brandy blushed at Mary's words. Vin wondered why she was so shy. It seemed like she was nervous, but she carried herself and spoke like a confident woman. She was a contradiction, a puzzle, and Vin loved puzzles.
'Wonder if I can get her to open up.'
Mary laughed softly and with a wave walked back down the stairs, making Vin wonder why the morally stout newspaper woman would leave them alone. Gathering his courage he took a leap.
"You all squared away here? Anything left you need me to help you with?" Vin hooked his thumbs through his belt loops, enjoying the woman in front of him coloring prettily. He tilted his head and waited.
"If you could ride with me into town I'd appreciate it." Her lips pulled into a smile and Vin felt like he'd been punched in the gut. It hurt to breathe and energy filled him seeing her face light up.
Soon they were on the trail back to town. Peso was tied up to the back of the wagon, Vin driving as Brandy sat beside him, holding the leather case in her lap.
"What do you think of Four Corners?" she asked as they rode slow, enjoying the day.
"Seems to have a reputation of a place where people come to get a new start." He replied honestly, knowing he was one of those who made a new start of sorts.
"The west does that." Brandy laughed and pulled her hair over her shoulder, braiding it quickly as the wind picked up. "I love it out here."
"You seem to be one of the few women that do."
Her laugh wrapped around him and dug into his skin. It was like fire. Soon they fell into a comfortable silence. It was nice to be around a woman who didn't feel the need to chatter all the time. His imagination took flight, wondering what it would be like for them to do this often, but as husband and wife.
In town Vin stopped the wagon in front of Mary's. Quickly he helped her down, handing her the case. Then he asked the question that had been eating at him since they left the Williams homestead.
"Brandy, would you mind if I called on you again? I'd like to get to know you better."
'Please say yes.'
Her eyes were big as she stared up into his face. He was even stooped slightly, leaning closer to her than was necessary. In his mind he could see him pulling her close and drowning in her touch.
Brandy was taken aback. Vin Tanner wanted to court her. Never in a million years would she have thought it was true. His eyes were a stormy blue, lightning crackling between them. His face was intense, close and watchful. Taking a deep breath she nodded.
"I'd like that very much."
The grin that split Vin's face made her knees weak. He looked like a boy who got his favorite treat. Relaxed and excited at the same time. It made her heart happy that she could make him look that way.
Vin reached out and took her hand. Brandy jumped at the feel of his warm skin against hers. His grasp was strong, but not overpowering; the grasp of a man who was used to getting what he wanted. Her. He wanted her, she could see it in his face. Goose flesh broke out as she watched Vin lift her hand, dipping his head to place a kiss on the back of her hand.
Lips, warm and softer than anything she could have imagined tugged at her heart. His eyes never left hers, and they were nearly navy now, velvet dark. Her head spun.
'Midnight dark. I think I'm in love.'
Far too soon he stepped back, tipping his hat to her. He then climbed back into the wagon and took off down the road. Hastily Brandy slipped into the newspaper office, face flaming and her heart racing.
"I take it you made quite the impression."
Brandy jumped guiltily before smiling at Mary. The blonde smiled back from behind her desk.
"More like he made an impression on me."
As the two women talked about life and the seven men that protect the town, Brandy set up her tools at a work station across the room from Mary's desk. This put the printing press in between them. Brandy had a desk that had a hinged section, allowing the tabletop to be raised and lowered as she worked, preventing her from having to hunch her back all day long. Behind her on the wall she had an apron on a hook to keep her clothes clean. On a shelf beside it went her solvents to soften and clean the wood and metal she used.
"I need to see about getting a wagon and horses. Any suggestions?"
"Chris would be able to help you. He's been breeding horses again with the help of Buck and Vin." Mary said softly. "After all he's been through, it's good for Chris to get back to doing something he enjoys."
"Will Chris be at the jail or saloon this time of day?"
"I'd try the jail first. Ezra is the only one that is always at the saloon when there isn't anything being stirred up."
At the jail, a stunned J.D. was watching Vin. It made the tracker scowl. What was so out of the ordinary about him wanting to court Brandy? She was stunning and very sweet.
'Wonder if they thought I went the other way.'
"Courting Brandy?" Chris asked. "Seems mighty quick."
"I just now asked about gettin' to know each other is all. For all I know she's got a bad temper and her breath smells like garlic."
'That's a lie. I don't think any of that would matter. Temper yes, garlic no.'
"Buck's gonna be awful disappointed." the young sheriff shuffled his feet.
"He'll get over it." Chris shook his head. "Man's hide is tougher than that of a buffalo."
Just then Vin heard footsteps coming down the boardwalk. They weren't heavy like a man's, so it was most likely Mary to get the latest information about a recent job they had done. He was surprised though, when the very woman they had been talking about opened the door.
"Hello gentlemen." Brandy smiled at them. Vin wanted to reach out and kiss her, but he didn't. He knew he needed to not rush into things. Still, the want for her burned in his chest.
"Hello Miss Brandy. What can we do for you?" J.D. asked standing and offering her his chair.
"No thank you, Mr. Dunne." She smiled. "I actually came to speak to Mr. Larrabee about horses."
"What do you need Brandy?" Chris asked, glancing at Vin. The tracker had mentioned it already to him that she would need at least two horses to pull a wagon.
"Mary said that you were knowledgeable regarding horses and have several on your property. I was hoping to purchase two from you."
"I think we can arrange something." He looked out the window, noting that the sun was beginning to set. "I think we'll need to do it tomorrow though; it's late in the day."
"That will work." Brandy nodded and turned to go. "I will see you then. I need to leave now if I'm to get home by sunset."
Vin reached out and grasped her arm softly. He didn't like that she was going to walk back to her homestead. He'd be dammed if he let any woman walk several miles in the wilderness. Especially if it was a woman he planned on spending time with in developing a relationship.
"I'll take you home."
That was how Vin came to have an armful of pleasantly soft and plump woman sitting in front of him as he led Peso back out to her home. It took everything in him to not make a sound as she rocked against him thanks to his paint pony having a wild canter as part of his Indian pedigree. He was mentally cursing himself to Purgatorio and back when she spoke.
"Thank you for taking me home Vin." Up ahead her home came into view.
"I reckon it's the right thing to do. It didn't sit right knowin' you were left without a horse until tomorrow."
"Still, I appreciate it." He could hear the smile in her voice. Soon they were stopped before the porch and Vin was reluctant to let her go. Stifling a sigh he dismounted and then helped Brandy down. He watched her shake out her skirts, looking pretty as a picture.
"I will be back at dawn to take you out to Chris's spread. It's on the other side of town, but we can get there faster if we skirt around town."
"I'll be ready. Do I need to make us breakfast?" Her hair lifted in the breeze, blowing around her face. He reached out and tucked a strand behind her ear. In impulse he leaned in and pressed a soft, quick kiss to her lips.
"Chris will have that ready for us." He forced himself to lift himself back into the saddle. "I will see you in the morning."
Brandy slept better than she had in several nights, glad to be home, even if she was sleeping in what used to be her parents bed. Her dreams were filled with Vin; his eyes, his lips, his hands, his body. She felt his phantom love her several times during the night, body craving that of the handsome tracker.
'If only it were real. I think I'd melt into a puddle and die from happiness. And desire.'
She took care in her toilette the next morning, washing thoroughly. She sat in the large claw foot tub her father had imported for her mother, enjoying the one small luxury she had. She wondered what Vin would think. She had a feeling he was a man who had lived a hard life and was used to not having much to his name. Brandy felt the insane urge to tuck him close to her heart and love him gently.
Part of her was surprised at how quickly they decided to become involved; she had only been back one day. Reckless, yes. Unheard of, no. Life out west was unpredictable and you have to grab happiness when you find it. Heck, women her age have already been married and have a gaggle of kids to follow them around. She was ready to take a step and see where it took her.
Dressed in a dark blue gingham with her hair braided down her back Brandy waited on the front porch, rocking chair creaking softly. The sun had yet to rise, but the sky was light. All around thick fog clung to the ground, blurring the world around her. Her ears pricked, a soft horse breath catching her attention.
"Vin? Is that you?"
"Can't see much in this muck." His voice grumbled through the fog. "Nearly missed the turn to your place."
Slowly the fog gave way, a lone rider appearing in the gloom. Peso shook his head, not liking the close feeling of the moisture. Brandy smiled as her heart picked up pace, tingles spreading across her. She felt his gaze on her, and her body remembered his two kisses and the dreams she'd had the night before.
"Ready to head out?" Vin smiled at her. Reaching out she took the hard he offered, letting herself be pulled up into the saddle behind him. A little thrill went through her being so close to him.
"I am." Brandy wrapped her arms around Vin's waist, careful not to hold him too tight. "Thank you for giving me a ride."
"This fog is goin' to slow us down. Let me know if you get uncomfortable." Vin squeezed the pony with his knees and they headed into the fog. "If you need to cat nap, wrap your fingers in my belt loops."
She laid her head on his shoulder, but didn't doze off. Her mind was spinning in a million directions, each thought faster than the last. They made her heart race and eyes mist over. There was such hope and uncertainty inside her, pulling her apart. She finally said in a soft voice,
"Why do you want to get to know me?"
Surprised Vin looked over his shoulder at her, eyes wide. She watched him gather his thoughts, biting her lip. He let the pony have his head and they slowed to a stop. She moved to draw her hands from around his waist, but his hands covered hers, holding her in place. He slid his fingers around hers, touch warm and calming.
"You're you." Vin said simply. "Beautiful and talented. Sweet and temptin'. There's no reason for me not to want to get to know you."
Silent he urged Peso on, back to the trail and to the Larrabee spread. Brandy knew right then and there; she was in love.
Vin watched as Chris and Brandy picked two mares to pull the wagon Josiah has found, as well as a stout gelding for her to ride when she wasn't using the wagon. His mind turned back to the question she had asked him. It was a simple and honest question, but it showed more depth to the woman than one would imagine.
Brandy gave an impression of a woman who was boldly confident and sure of herself. She was in the prime of her womanhood, no longer a child, but not an old maid. She had a career and a house. Yet Vin sensed that inside she was tender and vulnerable, making his protective instincts flare up. Other things roared to life as well, but they were things not meant for public.
'Her and me all alone in that house of hers. I bet her skin is softer than silk and warmer than the sun. Just wanna lose myself in those curves and eyes.'
"Thank you Mr. Larrabee for your help." Brandy stroked the nose of Stargazer, the black and white gelding she had chosen. Belle and Dixie were both brown mares with black manes.
"Your welcome Brandy. Please, call me Chris." He was hooking up the mares to the wagon while Vin tied Peso and Stargazer to the back of the wagon.
"Seems I'm making fast friends with your group." The beautiful woman in navy smiled. Vin's insides clenched. "Josiah found me a wagon, you have helped me find horses, and several of you helped me move into my home."
Chris smiled.
"You've also got the best tracker in the territory taking a liking to you."
"You know?" Brandy looked at Vin from where she stood by Chris, eyes apprehensive.
"Found out the hard way to not keep secrets when protecting the town." Chris said and Vin knew he was referring to Christine.
"I would imagine so." Brandy nodded.
Several hours later Vin sat in the saloon, bottle of whiskey in front of him. It was nearly full. He looked up when Buck sat down and stared at him, eyebrow raised.
"What?"
"You courtin' Brandy?"
"What if I am?" Vin scowled.
"Surprised is all. Seemed you'd shy off women after the wagon train incident."
"It was a mistake. She belonged with her husband and we both knew it. Brandy is different."
"Yeah." Buck drew the word out. "An unmarried woman with a reputation to take care of and career she can't afford to lose. Lot more trusting when she don't have anyone to look after her."
Vin's temper snapped and he let loose a curse.
"Dammit Buck. Lay off. I'm tryin' to do this proper and don't need any flack from you."
He watched the horseman consider his words, seeing the wheels in the man's head turn. Yes the seven of them were a team, but they all led their own lives. How many times had Ezra gone off on his own? Buck has been in more scrapes involving women that he could count. Hell, even Chris and J.D. have flown off the handle a time or two.
"Fine then." Buck stood. "Be sure you treat her well."
Several nights later Brandy was curled up on the settee in the parlor reading when she heard a rider approaching. Quickly she stood and took the shotgun down from above the fireplace, making sure it was loaded. Holding it ready she waited in the other side of the door, heart fluttering.
Boots thumped onto the porch. Brandy snugged the butt of the gun against her shoulder. She kept quiet as a mouse knowing surprise would be her advantage.
"Put the gun down Brandy, it's me." Vin called through the door. Lowering the rifle she opened the door. He looked haggard, dusty and worn. Even Peso looked tired.
"What happened?" Quickly Brandy sat the shotgun aside and pulled Vin inside.
"Just a long ride is all." He pulled his hat off and sat it on top of the gun. He ran his hand through his hair. "Had to ride out to Purgatorio and back."
"Goodness." She pulled the man into the kitchen and sat him down at the table. "You must be starving."
"Reckon I am." He rubbed his face. Brandy filled a bowl with the roast that was keeping warm on the stove, left over from her own supper. She added several biscuits and a tall glass of sweet tea. As Vin started eating she went outside to take care of Peso. Leading him into the corral she gave him some sweet hay and made sure he had fresh water. She took his saddle off and sat it on a shelf in the stable.
Once back inside Brandy saw Vin's jacket hanging on one of the hooks in the entryway, his hat hanging over the jacket. The rifle was also gone from the table. Glancing into the kitchen she saw the dining table cleared. Moving into the parlor she saw Vin on the settee, feet stretched out before him, head dropped onto the back of the seat, eyes closed.
Tenderness filled her as she slowly sat down beside him, trying to not disturb him. He looked in need of a bath and a good night's sleep. Glancing at the clock she saw that it was already 10 o'clock and knew the ride to town took another half hour. Reaching out she brushed her hand over his forehead.
'I wonder if this is what it would be like to have him in my life on a more permanent basis. Warm and protected, tender and sweet.'
"There's no sense in you riding to town tonight." Brandy pushed aside the brief thought of her reputation as Vin's beautiful blue eyes opened to look at her. "Use the guest bedroom. Peso has already been taken care of."
"You don't have to do that. I can ride back to town." He sat up and rolled his head, popping his neck. "'Sides, it ain't exactly proper. Folks in town will talk."
"They already do, but probably not about what you think though." He shot her a hard look, making her squirm. She debated not telling him, but in the end she sighed. Not wanting to look him in the eye she stood and faced the fireplace.
"You better tell me, otherwise I'll find out my way." HIs voice was hard and low, colder than she would have imagined it could be. If that was the voice he used with people he didn't like, then it was no wonder he was a successful bounty hunter.
"It's had more to do with the fact that I'm 30 years old, never been married and have a job that, according to society, ought to be a man's." Brandy crossed her arms, temper rising. "The town had changed a lot in the last five years; and a lot of the people I knew have either moved on or passed away."
"Mary is unmarried and runs the newspaper." Vin commented, voice thawing slightly.
"Yes, but in the minds of many people, she's running her late husband's paper, not her own." She turned and looked him dead in the eye.
He shifted and she knew that he thought that way as well. A spike of pain went through her, but she fought past it. Pain was familiar, she often used it to move past difficult situations. She may look soft on the outside, but she had a core as solid as steel.
Vin kicked himself. Brandy's eyes hid nothing, and he could see her pulling back, stepping away from what they were beginning to build. She was a woman of pride, using to hide how vulnerable she was on the inside. He was a tracker, a watcher. He saw more than most people and could read nearly anyone like an open book. He was fairly certain he was the only one other than Mary who knew what she was really made of.
"Now don't look like that." He stood and put his arms around her. After a few moments Brandy melted against him, tucking her head under his chin.
He was fighting a losing battle and he knew it. He mind and heart knew he needed to leave, to ride back to town. Yet as he finally got to wrap his arms around her again after several days, his body decided it was time to take over.
Gently he tipped her face up to his, lowering his mouth to hers, lips taking hers in a slow kiss. Vin tightened his arms around Brandy, pulling her closer. Her gentle kisses back were more than enough to light a fire in his blood. She was heaven, all soft and warm. Her lips didn't taste like Brandy, they were much sweeter and a lot more intoxicating.
"I'm sorry sweetheart." Vin whispered when he pulled back. "Don't think I'm not proud of what you do."
"It just hurt to think you saw me as everyone else does." She replied just as softly, eyes big in her beautiful face.
"Never." He ran his hand over her hair.
The clock in the corner of the room chimed deeply, reminding Vin of the late hour. Hugging Brandy close for a moment he stepped back, reluctantly letting her go. He didn't want to. He wanted to lock them in her bedroom and lose himself in her.
"There's a basin and pump in the back of the kitchen. You can use it to wash up. I'll go bring you a towel." She smiled at him before turning and heading up the stairs. He watched the sway of her hips before moving to wash up.
Soon he was settled into the guest bedroom down the hall from her, relaxing into a soft mattress. It was much more comfortable that his bedroll is his wagon back in town. He could get used to sleeping on a soft bed, especially if he had a warm woman in his arms.
Vin woke early, not wanting to have people talking about where he had slept. Breakfast was a quick affair, Brandy having already been up and about when he left the guestroom. They shared a few soft kisses, Brandy having to redo her hair after the last one, Vin having tangled his hands into her silky hair. It gave him a rush to know that he affected her so, eyes bright and cheeks flushed.
"Find what you needed?" Chris asked later that morning as they sat on the boardwalk outside the jail.
"Yeah, but it was later than I thought when I headed back. Had to make camp little over halfway back." Vin shrugged.
They were tracking a lead on Ella Gaines, and needed to flush out information. The best place to get info was the notorious outlaw town. Now that Vin had been publicly cleared of the murder he had been framed for, he saw no reason to not go into that hell hole and gather information.
It had been six months since Chris had found out Ella had been the one responsible for his family being murdered. It was still a somewhat sore subject, so Vin had volunteered to go to Purgatorio this time around. Each of the seven had gone at one point or another to get information, but until now, there had been no solid leads.
"Really?" Chris lowered his voice. "Now I could have sworn I saw you riding out to Brandy's last night."
"Nothin' happened. I slept in the guest bedroom. By the time I got there and she fed me, it was already after 10." Vin shifted as he kept his voice low.
'Not that I didn't want more to happen. Lord knows I did.'
"Good." Chris nodded. "Let's get to work then."
"How are things between you and Vin?" Mary asked as Brandy sat at her workstation, sketching an image before she began to engrave it.
"I think things are going well." Brandy struggled to not blush. "He kissed me last night."
"He did!? I thought he'd ridden to Purgatorio." The blonde stopped setting up the type for the letterpress to look at her cousin. "What was he doing out at your place?"
"I'm not too sure." Brandy stopped sketching to look at the blonde woman. "He showed up late, looking like he'd ridden hard the whole way. Even Peso looked haggard." She then went on to outline what had happened after that.
"Hm." Mary mused after Brandy had finished. She was pacing back and forth while the shorter woman had been talking. "I think things may be more serious than you think."
"How so?"
"Vin rode out to get information on the woman who had ordered the murder of Chris' family. Why would Vin take a detour to your home instead of riding out to Chris' if he had information?" Mary looked her cousin in the eye.
"Either Vin is smitten, or something big is about to happen."
As it turned out, both things Mary predicted were true. Just not in that order. Shortly after lunch, Chris knocked on the newspaper door, Vin right behind him. Brandy knew it was something serious by the look in the men's eyes. There was a coldness in their faces that she had never seen before. Not knowing if she should say anything, she kept silent, standing behind her desk.
"Mary. I want you and Brandy to close up the paper and head upstairs." Chris ground out as Buck and Josiah rushed past the windows.
"Why?" The blonde woman asked even as she began shutting the printing press down.
"We've found out that Ella knows about you, and that our relationship isn't that of only friends. She's headed this way with a posse of murderers and sharp shooters. She's bound and determined that if she can't have me, I won't have anyone else."
Brandy quickly stepped around her desk at those words and began helping Mary shut things off before reaching under her desk and grabbing her rifle. Likewise Mary was also going for her shotgun. Brandy also unlocked a drawer on her desk and retrieved a revolver. Determination filled her. Yes, she was going to hide out of the way, but she was going armed just in case she needed to defend herself.
"Well. I guess that means things are about to get very lively and noisy here in town." Brandy spoke up. "We'll get out of sight and let you seven handle things from here."
Chris reached out and kissed Mary quickly before turning and walking out the door, sending her up the stairs. Brandy followed Vin to the door to lock it after him. Her heart was racing, but not out of fear. She knew Vin and the others would be able to take care of themselves, it was more anticipation to have the confrontation over with. He turned to look at her, eyes thawing.
"Stay out of sight and keep quiet." With a small peck on her lips he was gone. Quickly Brandy locked the door and joined Mary in the attic, women crouching in the small space. Together they waited for all hell to break loose. It didn't take long, maybe fifteen minutes after Brandy had settled down to wait.
Vin and Chris had just made cover when hoofbeats could be heard thundering to the south of the town. Vin was up high, actually on the roof of the newspaper. Buck was across and down, over the hardware shop next to the saloon. Nathan was hiding behind crates in front if the general store. Josiah was taking cover in the hotel. J.D. had the jail covered. Ezra, as always, was covering the saloon. Chris was staked out in front of the bank with a clear view down main street.
Vin didn't know what was driving Ella to be so reckless. Chris had made it perfectly clear that there had never been anything like real love between them, and yet the woman was insane. Murdering the wife and child of the man she claimed she loved, then trying to kill the seven. Chris was even wounded pretty bad, leaving a nasty scar on his left side right below his ribcage. Insanity was an evil demon; Vin would be thankful when Ella was either in jail or dead. Vin prefered dead.
"Chris, honey. Come on out and stop all this nonsense. I'll take you back in a heartbeat." Ella's sultry voice floated on the wind, hiding the venom she really spat. "Leave this dusty hovel and come home to me."
"Sorry Ella." Chris called out from his hiding place. "Not gonna happen after what you did to my wife and son."
"What about the newspaper whore?" There was the venom, all sweetness gone from her tone. "Heard you were shacking up with the widow."
"Wagging tongues rarely tell the truth."
"We'll just see about that." Ella raised her hand, elegant despite the fact she was flanked by some of the worst outlaws in the territory. "Once that bitch is dead you'll be mine."
Shots rang out and the gun battle was on. The ones on the ground took the brunt of the gunfire, but between Buck and Vin, it didn't take long before the ranks of Ella's hired guns to thin. Vin had just broken cover to fire again when Buck shouted,
"Vin, seven and down!"
Ducking back under cover he was aiming to fire when the gunman fell, crimson blooming on his chest. Vin looked to Buck, but he shook his head and pointed below Vin. Brandy and Mary were below him, right under his feet. Heart in his throat he peered over the roof, praying they had stayed under cover.
Through a small slat in the attic wall protruded the barrel of a rifle, just clearing the wood and allowing the gun to fire. Immediately he knew who had just saved him; it was a single barrel rifle. Mary used a double barrel shotgun.
'Damn. She cooks like momma, is prettier than a spring cactus bloom and she can sharpshoot? What you waitin' for? Make that girl yours before someone else does.'
"Nice shot." Mary murmured as Brandy readjusted her aim. "You still have a better shot than I do."
"That's why you use the shotgun." Brandy smiled, eyes trained on the sight of her rifle, nerves sharp. "Aim in the general direction and pull the trigger. Gonna hit what you want. May not kill them the first time, but you sure will maim them."
"Give up Ella." Chris' voice rang out, slightly muffled by walls and distance. "You can't win."
Shifting quietly, Brandy trained her rifle of the woman in black silk. She was dressed more for entertaining than outlawing. Rolling her eyes she focused.
'Pretty wrappings can't hide evil.'
"You're mine, Chris Larrabee. No one will have you if I can't have you."
On instinct Brandy fired. The woman in black screamed in pain even as her horse tumbled. The bullet had gone clean through the outer edge of the woman's thigh and into her horse, wounding the animal fatally.
"I've done all I can Mary." Brandy pulled back, hands beginning to shake. She hated killing and hurting, but knew it had to be done. "It's up to the seven now."
"You've done more than enough." Mary hugged her cousin and the women settled down to wait.
"Who managed to pull of such a brazen and skillful shot?" Ezra asked as Chris held Ella down while Nathan tended her wound.
"Shot came from Mary's." Buck replied looking at Vin.
"Wasn't me." The tracker shook his head, heart tumbling with the knowledge and emotions swirling through him. "It was Brandy."
"Really?" J.D. asked, eyes wide.
"Yeah. I recognized her rifle."
"Must have been an opening just big enough for her to use." Josiah turned his gaze to the newspaper office. "What a woman."
"Hey, that's my woman." Vin turned and stalked to the newspaper office, ignoring the chuckles of the others. The four not dealing with Ella split up to search for survivors and remove bodies.
"Brandy. Mary. You can come out now."
"Didn't know you were proficient with firearms, Miss Williams." Ezra commented later that evening.
It was Sunday, so the saloon had closed early. The seven plus Mary and Brandy were sitting at two of the square tables that had been pushed together. Inez put out a huge platter of enchiladas and tamales.
Ella was secured in the jail. Pumped full of laudanum and trusted up like a Thanksgiving turkey, she wasn't about to go anywhere.
Brandy blushed and shrugged.
"I'm an only child, so my daddy made sure I knew how to take care of myself. 'Sides, it helps when your cousin is Caleb Donahue."
Buck literally spit his whiskey out, thumping his chair down on to all four legs from where he'd been leaning back. Josiah cocked an eyebrow. Even Chris looked flabbergasted as he turned to Mary. Beside her Brandy felt Vin stiffen.
"Caleb Donahue." Nathan clarified. "Caleb Donahue, Pinkerton sharpshooter and assassin?"
"You never said anything about that Mary." Chris sounded winded.
Mary shook her head, motioning Brandy to explain.
"Mary is my cousin on my father's side. Caleb is my cousin on my mother's side. Even then, he's the son of my mother's half brother."
"Well gentlemen." Ezra smiled, his gold tooth flashing. "Seems we have acquired some unexpected backup."
Brandy put her hand on Vin's leg under the table, trying to reassure him. His warm hand covered hers, strong and comfortable. It meant so much to her to know that he still wanted to touch her.
'I hope … I wish … If only I could spend the rest of my life with him.'
"On one condition." Vin squeezed her fingers. He turned his head to stare at her with his beautiful eyes. "You stay to protect the town when we ride out and no one is to know what you can do."
Brandy nodded, heart swelling with love and happiness.
Four weeks later, Ella Gaines was hung, having been found guilty of murder. An independent judge had come in for the trial, Oren Travis having recused himself from the case. Vin understood why. Travis' daughter in law was in a romantic relationship with the accuser.
Vin decided now that things had settled, it was time for him to move forward with Brandy. He wanted her in his life, and every new thing he learned about her made him want her more.
'I love her. I can't believe it, but I do.'
It was Friday and a package had arrived for Vin in the post that morning. He was ready to put his plan into motion. Vin took care to make sure all things were prepared properly and in place. His stomach clenched as he rode out to her home.
The lanterns were lit in the parlor as Vin rode up, and he could see her silhouette against the lace curtains. Vin's heart thudded slowly, breathing deep. Tonight would change his life.
"Incoming." He called out, not wanting to make his little sharpshooter go for her gun. She saw her head come up and then go back down before she stood and opened the front door.
Brandy stood in the spill of light, dressed in a light grass green cotton dress. Her hair was down and spilling across her shoulders. She was so beautiful right in that moment that it hurt, Vin's chest tightening. Other body parts as well.
'I have to have her. I don't think I can wait.'
"Evening Vin." Her voice was sultry as he dismounted and led Peso into the corral. "What brings you out this evening?"
"Can I not pay my girl a visit?" He smiled as he stepped onto the porch, nerves drawn tight.
"You may." She went up on her bare tiptoes to give him a light kiss before turning back inside. "Have you eaten? Why are you dressed like that?"
"I've already had supper." Vin shut the door behind him, grateful to be shutting the world out. "I'm not dressed any different."
"You look like you just came from a bath." She observed settling down on the settee. "I'm not used to seeing you without a bit of the trail on you."
"Tonight is important, and I didn't want to be covered in dust." He swallowed hard.
"Important?" Brandy stood back up, stepping close and laying her hand on his chest. Vin covered her hand with his, pressing her palm close to his beating heart. "Is something wrong?"
"No." He whispered and shook his head. "Marry me?"
'Marry me? Oh God, please don't let this be a dream.'
"Vin?" Brandy gazed up into eyes that had mesmerized her. He smiled a small smile and dipped his head closer.
"Please." He whispered ever so softly. "Marry me. Grow old with me. I want children with you. A life of happiness and love."
Tears began pouring from her eyes as she nodded, head spinning. She watched him drop to one knee before her and fish a gold band out of his pocket. Across it were three diamonds, one larger one in the middle with two smaller stones flanking it.
Laughing and crying Brandy held her left hand out. Slowly Vin slipped the ring on her finger, fitting perfect. He stood and scooped her up into his arms, kissing her and hugging her tight. His lips caressed hers, pulling her deeper into the spell he was weaving around her.
Pulling back to let her breathe he said the words she wanted to hear.
"I love you. I have since I laid eyes on you."
"I've loved you from the first time I got a letter from Mary. She knows you all well enough that she would describe you to me. I have to say, I fell for the loner who was haunted by his past."
Brandy felt his heart pounding under her right hand. On her left winked her gold band, a promise of the future. Vin buried his hand in her hair, palm big and warm. His other hand was low on her back, scalding hot through the thin cotton of her dress. She also felt something else pressing into her.
Vin leaned down and pressed his lips to hers again, slipping into her mouth, warm and wet. Her hands slid up his chest and around his neck. She was lost in the desire that he was igniting in her, ready to drown in his blue eyes and hard body. She wanted to be skin to skin with him, finally feeling what she had craved from this man from the beginning.
"We should take this upstairs." Vin's voice was dark and smoky, close and intimate. Nodding Brandy stepped away to extinguish the lanterns, the only light now coming from the full moon shining through the windows.
Feeling nervous and excited Brandy led the way upstairs, passing the guest room where Vin had slept a month ago. It was a heady mix. The man behind her radiated hunger, making her hand shake as she opened the door to her room. Her head was spinning, nearly making her dizzy.
'Don't pass out or it will be over before it starts.'
Vin knew he was right where he was meant to be. Brandy was his home, a home that he'd been searching nearly all his life for. Anticipation coiled in his belly, blood moving hotly through his veins.
'Soon I'll find that complete home deep inside her.'
He studied her once they were in her, soon to be their, bedroom. Their bedroom. She had moved across the room to open the large French window, letting the cool evening breeze and silver moonlight in. Her body was luscious, perfect for him to hold and love. Her hands were slim, soft and warm. Her bare toes teased him as she moved across the floor silently.
"Before we start ..." Her voice was soft in the darkness, shaking and fragile. She moved to stand before him at the end of the bed. He reached out and cupped her cheek, running his thumb along the soft skin under her left eye.
"First time?" Vin murmured, gazing gently at the beautiful woman in front of him. He felt a thrilling possessiveness at the knowledge that he would be the only man to love her, to have her. His stomach clenched tight, body thrumming.
Brandy nodded, biting her lip. Quickly he stooped, covering her lips with his. Gently he opened her, tasting her, drinking her in. She was liquid fire in his arms, melting and so very hot. His hands worshipped her as she undressed her. Smooth, clear skin dusted with freckles shone in the moonlight.
Large, heavy breasts tipped with dark hard nipples drew him close. Kneeling before her he lapped at her globes, hands continuing to bare her to his gaze. Brandy's hands were tangled in his hair, moaning softly. Her stomach was slightly bowed out, a sign of a healthy woman. Lush hips filled his hands and he knew she would feel like heaven underneath him. Soon she stood before him, naked and beautiful.
"You are so beautiful." Vin kissed her softly, gently. "I promise not to hurt you."
"I know." She smiled and reached for the buttons of his shirt.
Brandy's heart was pounding. Vin made her feel things she never would have dreamed. Under his gaze and hands, she became a beautiful creature full of passion and desire. She felt free. The fire in his eyes and intense look on his face made her burn for him.
The buttons of his shirt were not wanting to give way to her trembling fingers. Small smile on his lips Vin reached down and pulled the tail of his shirt out of his pants, pulling the light tan cloth over his head. She was shocked into stillness.
He was solid, but not overly muscled. He had the physique of a man who worked hard for a living, skin a glorious tan. Gently she ran her fingertips through the dark curling chest hair, feeling the thickness and coarseness over the hot satin on his skin. She felt small and feminine for the first time I her life.
"So warm." She whispered, eyes worshipping his body.
'I can't wait to feel him above me.'
"More like burning hot." His voice was deep and dark, hands moving to unbuckle his belt.
"Mmmmm, hot works." She agreed, playing with his nipples while she watched him toe off his boots and remove his pants. His hands were quick to remove the last thing between them, leaving them completely naked with each other.
She managed to get a peek of his raging manhood, all hard and erect, before she found herself pressed to a wall of hot muscle. Vin kissed her roughly, one hand cupping the back of her head, the other reaching down to pull her right knee up against his thigh.
Lost in his kisses, she felt him lift her completely off the ground. Immediately her arms and legs locked around him, bringing her closer to his amazing heat. With two large steps and never breaking his kiss, Vin lowered her onto the bed, climbing up over her.
'Finally. It's my turn to know love.'
'Paradise.'
Vin relished the feel of Brandy's soft silky skin against his. He felt on top of the world as he settled against her in their bed, kissing her passionately. They were pressed tight from hips to chest, her nipples hard points against his skin. She was rippling under him, moaning and rubbing herself against him.
Breaking their kiss he pressed his lips all over her body, grinning each time she sucked in a breath or moaned deeply. He licked her nipples and sucked on her breasts, her nails digging into his shoulders. The skin of her stomach was pillow soft, and he couldn't wait to see her rounded with his child.
Slipping his hand down to the center of heat between her legs, Vin lightly traced the outline of her. Brandy gasped and squirmed, giggling softly. Grinning he dipped his fingers down, working his way into her wetness. Soaking wet sweetness met his fingers, so hot. Her legs trembled and then fell open, giving him all the access he could ever want.
'All mine. Every part of her.'
Shifting back he watched his fingers play with her, mouth watering when he saw her cupping her breasts and teasing her own nipples. Her head was thrashing back and forth on the pillow, legs moving restlessly. Needing more he pulled his hand from her and climbed between her legs. Bleary green eyes gazed back at him from a flushed face.
"Try to relax sweetheart." Vin whispered, guiding himself to her core. Heat radiated from her, drawing him to her, tying him to her forever.
"I'm ready." She whispered, drawing her legs up, knees rising on either side of his hips. Kissing her softly and thoroughly Vin slipped the tip of him inside.
Immediately he was surrounded by heat hotter than a midday summer sun. Wetness wrapped around him like a fist. Slowly, so slowly, he lowered himself into her, feeling her stretch around him. She was tighter than he could have dreamed and better than any fantasy he could have imagined.
'He's so big!'
Brandy let out a low moan as Vin started pushing into her. It stung, a red hot pain that fed into the dark desire swamping her. She didn't know pain could feel good. She shifted her legs to wrap around his strong waist and cried out. He slid even deeper with a sharp stab in her core, virginity giving way to his manhood. Soon he was sunk into her all the way, pelvis pressed into hers.
"You feel so good." Vin buried his face in her neck, sweat dripping onto her skin. She wrapped her arms around him, caressing his back and relaxing. Shuddering she felt him slip in a little deeper, sliding hotly in her slickness.
"I didn't know it could feel like this." Brandy breathed as he pressed hot open mouth kisses to her neck.
"It's about to get better."
He was right. Slowly he pulled back, her body sucking at him. When he was almost all the way out he paused and grinned wickedly at her. Wondering what was about to happen, Brandy cried out when he slammed his hips back down roughly. Pleasure spiked through her. Back bowing up off the bed she screamed her acceptance of him.
Over hand over he would pull out slowly only to plunge back in passionately. He was driving her crazy from desire. Heat was building in her, sweat pouring off her, mixing with his. Together the slipped and slid. Frantic she locked her legs around his waist and begged,
"More, please. Harder. Deeper."
He began pounding her hard, pulling her deeper into the vortex of heat and desire surrounding them. Vin was vocal, grunting and whispering dirty things in her ear. Brandy was screaming, shrieking for more. Slowly her belly began to harden, clenching around him, fire becoming unbearable.
With a shout Vin bowed his back. Deep inside he rippled and twitched, releasing his thick seed into her. Feeling his manhood work set her off, making her clench tighter than before. A hard wave of white hot pleasure slammed into her, drowning her senses.
Vin felt like his soul was being wrenched from him. Over and over he released himself into her, body jerking. Brandy was wild underneath him. Her insides felt like a hard fist milking him, wet and hot. Her walls quivered around him, alluring and beautiful. Once his legs unlocked, he began lightly dipping his manhood into her again. She jerked roughly, body sensitive and continuing to come apart.
Giving her one last kiss he pulled out with a hiss, missing her warmth. Gently he laid down on the bed beside her and waited for her to come back to herself. She was a beautiful sight. Glowing and flushed, her chest heaving with her breathing, beautiful green eyes blurred from passion.
'So beautiful. She's my home.'
"Wow." She finally managed with a smile. He ran his hand over her hair, smoothing it back from her face. He grinned indulgently at her.
"Yeah, I figure that's a right proper word for it."
He saw her eyes flutter as her body began to relax. Sleep was on their heels, both exhausted from their lovemaking. Laying on his back he pulled her close to his side. She laid her head on his shoulder, leg sliding up over his thighs. It was a comfortable intimacy, one Vin wanted to relive night after night.
"I love you." Brandy whispered falling asleep.
"I love you too sweetheart." Vin pressed a kiss to the top of her head before falling asleep as well.
"Brandy, it's perfect!" Mary clapped her hands as the bride spun around, arms out to her sides.
They stood in the master bedroom of the soon to be Tanner homestead. It had been four months since Vin had proposed to her, and their wedding was two days away. Brandy was on cloud nine, happier than she ever imagined. The people of Four Corners stopped their gossiping once Mary had published the wedding announcement in the paper. She was marrying the man of her dreams.
She was also pregnant with their first child, but she was going to wait until after the wedding to tell Vin.
'He's going to be a great father.'
Vin could be heard in the parlor downstairs talking to Chris while Buck was outside with Billy. It was the family Brandy always wanted.
"Thank you Mary." Brandy smiled at her cousin. "I've always wanted an ivory lace dress."
"When I saw it in Sears & Roebuck I knew you had to have it." The blonde woman smiled brightly, moving to help her cousin out of the dress. They had checked the fit one last time before the wedding.
The wedding would be on the property, overlooking the green rolling hills behind the house. Josiah would preside over the nuptials. Billy was the ring bearer with Mary being the Matron of Honor. Chris was to be Vin's Best Man. Breaking with tradition Brandy would walk down the aisle unescorted. The reception would be catered by Ezra and Inez.
"I still can't believe I'm getting married." Brandy sighed as she hung the dress back in her wardrobe, knowing Vin would keep his word and not try to steal a peek.
"You will." Mary smiled. "And to one of the best men in the territory too."
"I sure am blessed."
She was ready to become a wife and a mother, to never be alone again. To have a real purpose and reason for living. She was full of love and so thankful that she had found someone to share her life with.
"You ready to tie yourself down Vincent?" Buck asked two days later as the wedding was minutes away.
"Believe it or not Buck, but I am." The tracker couldn't help but smile at the thought of the woman he loved becoming his wife. He shook out his freshly cleaned buffalo hide jacket before pulling it on.
Brandy had requested him to wear his usual garments, but to have them freshly cleaned. His shirt and bandana though were new; bandana a green to match the eyes of his angel, shirt a crisp bone color. He even wore his gun gunbelt with his mares leg strapped to his thigh. The only thing missing was his hat. Mary caught his eye as she stepped onto the back porch.
'It's time. No longer alone; time to be part of somethin' larger. Home.'
Vin took his place beside Josiah, Chris flanking him in his other side. Surprisingly he heart wasn't racing or has mind spinning. He was completely calm waiting for the rest of his life to start.
His mind went completely blank though when he saw his future step onto the back porch.
Ivory lace lovingly draped her lush figure, pale wild roses woven into her hair. Hair that was piled in curls, a few ringlets dripping down the sides of her face and across her shoulders. Jade green eyes sparkled and her lips were curled into a smile. More wild roses were bunched into a bouquet in her hands.
She stopped before Josiah and Vin stepped to her side. A place he was never going to leave. Sharing a smile they turned to look at their friend and preacher.
"Dearly beloved," Josiah began and the winked. "I believe we all know why we are gathered here today. To witness a union of more than just two people. We are here to join two lives, two spirits, two souls."
Brandy felt peaceful listening to the deep baritone of her friend wash over the group. All seven protectors, Mary, Billy, Judge Travis and his wife were in attendance. While it was an eclectic bunch, it was family. Joined together through trial and heartache, the group was bound to each other almost a tightly as blood.
Brandy heard every word and responded when needed, but it was all a blur to her. A blur of happiness and love. She was lost in the eyes of the man she loved.
A gold band was slid onto her finger, her engagement ring following that. Belonging. Home. Love. She slid a wide gold band onto Vin's finger. Love and pride welled up inside her.
"Now we all know what comes next." Josiah chuckled. "Vin, my brother, you may kiss your bride."
Brandy barely had time to register the grin on her husband's face when he pulled her close and kissed her soundly.
This is what she'd been praying for on that long dusty stagecoach ride from Texas to Arizona so long ago. The love of a man she adored. Family that protected and defended. A home of her own. A place where she could grow old and leave a legacy.