Slow Train to Dodge

PT.21

Conclusion

Tracy had left a message for Matt, Kitty, Doc and Festus to meet her and Jay at the café for lunch.

When they all gathered, Kitty looked at the two love birds sitting holding hands. "Hello, you two! So, what is the reason for this big gathering?"

Smiling a big smile, "Oh. Oh, please everyone, sit and I'll tell you. Matt, Jay and Doc all pulled up chairs. Once comfortable, Tracy started. "Okay, Miss Kitty, Marshal. well everyone, Jay and I want you all to come back to the ranch with us."

Everyone starting looking around the table.

"Wait, wait. Miss Kitty, Jay and I are going to be married but we want to be married at home, at Copperton Ranch. Daddy's there and he would have wanted it that way. You understand, don't you?"

"Oh. Tracy, of course, but…"

"Oh, Miss Kitty, you just have to be there. And you, Marshal, and all of you."

Matt looked at Kitty, rolling his eyes. "Of course, Tracy." Kitty said, lightly patting Matt's hand beneath the table.

That afternoon, the work house wagon came to Spearville to pick up Jessie. Tracy watched from her hotel window. She couldn't bring herself to say goodbye a second time. Tears streamed down her face as the wagon slowly disappeared out of town.

The following morning, they all boarded a train headed toward Copperton Ranch. Doc decided to join them to continue to keep an eye on Matt as well as Tracy until she saw a doctor back at home.

Once back at the ranch, Jay and Tracy announced to Webb Conley they were to be married and that he would be a grandfather. Webb agreed to stay on as foremen. He was saddened at the news of Jessie, but happy that there would be changes at the ranch..

Kitty helped Tracy make arrangements for the wedding. It was small and intimate but beautiful. The local preacher agreed to preside over the nuptials. Kitty stood as her maid of honor. Webb stood as best man and Tracy asked Matt to give her away in place of her father, Blaine.

Tracy wore a dress Blaine had kept that had belonged to her mother. Kitty had helped her fix it to fit her as her something old. Then Kitty lent her a pair of sapphire earrings as her something borrowed and blue.

"Oh, Miss Kitty, what about something new?"

Kitty just smiled, placing her hand on Tracy's stomach. "I think you've got that covered."

The two broke out into heavy laughter. "Oh, Miss Kitty, I'm so nervous but so happy."

"Tracy, you look so beautiful. Your father and mother would be proud. Now, let's get you out there. You have a handsome groom waiting."

The ceremony went as planned, followed by a celebration. Tracy included all the staff and hands. She wanted them all to feel like family.

Two days later, Matt, Kitty, Doc and Festus were ready to head back to Dodge.

Tracy, standing in front of the house, cried. "Ah, Miss Kitty, I'm going to miss you sooo much. I do hope you'll come back soon, maybe when the baby comes?"

"Oh, you bet I will. Hugging her tight, "And I expect you to write me often."

"I will. I promise." Turning to Matt, "Marshal? Thank you just don't seem like enough. Twice in my life you've come to my rescue."

"Tracy, it's my job."

Kitty smiled and shook her head, thinking to herself, "I've heard that before, too many times."

Tracy leaned up on her toes as far as she could, kissing his cheek then hugging Doc and Festus.

Later, boarding the train, kicking back and propping up her feet, Kitty leaned over, laying her head on his shoulder. "Ummmmm. I'll sure be happy to be home."

Leaning into the top of her head. "Uh-huh. Me too."

"Ya know, Cowboy. I must say, this has been an experience."

"Uh-huh, I agree."

Doc and Festus just looked on at the two, smiling, knowing how comfortable these two were together again.

"Cowboy?"

"Yeah?"

"A few weeks ago you were shot and I was boarding a train home to be by your side." Inhaling. "I've got to say, that was one "Slow Train to Dodge."

FINI

A/N: A Special Thanks to all the Readers and all the wonderful reviewers and to all the Guest reviewers. Although I can't respond, I do appreciate them and Thank You much. The support means so much. That is what makes this all worth the time and effort. And Thank You to Singerme for your time and help. You are a Great Friend!