Newly hoped he remembered it right. Matt had told him that he had spent the last twelve years in a cabin due north some thirty miles from where he and Newly had gone hunting in Colorado many years ago. That was the only reference point he had as he urgently searched the countryside for Matt. He knew the longer it took to find Matt the more danger Kitty would be in and that thought lay heavy on his mind. Newly pulled his coat collar up around his neck as a light snow began to fall and the wind whistled through the pines. He shook his head as he wondered how Matt could find the cold and desolation of the mountains preferable to being with his family.

Matt stayed long enough to help Little Doe and Bright Water laid Jake to rest. His left arm was beginning to stiffen from the bullet wound and the pain was a further reminder of the chance he took. As he watched the two Indian women grieve he thought of Kitty and the effect his death would have had on her and so thankful luck was still on his side. Little Doe wanted him to stay a few days until his arm healed properly but he needed to get back to Dodge. As it was he made Kitty wait long enough and returning to her was his only priority. He said his goodbyes and wearily began his journey home. There were a few times on the ride back that he thought about Mannon and what it would be like to face him again. There was no doubt in Matt's mind that he would be coming after him with a vengeance and that rage could be just the edge Matt needed to defeat him. He decided to stop at the cabin and pick up his things and hoped no one would be there to offer any resistance to his leaving.

Newly found a few abandoned cabins along the route and was beginning to think he may have misunderstood. His hope was fading fast when he saw another cabin in the distance. At first glance this cabin seemed to be as empty as all the others but he dismounted anyway and took a look around. He walked toward the back and found a bag sitting in the corner of a room. He smiled when he saw the pictures of Kitty, Matthew, and Katie. He went outside and put them in his saddle bags and went back into the cabin to wait. He grabbed a cord of wood and walked over to the hearth when he heard a horse approaching and a bellowing voice demanding that he come out with his hands up. He swallowed hard not wanting to tell Matt the news so he slowly approached the front door and walked out onto the porch. He sensed Matt was not surprised when he mentioned Mannon's name but the fact that Kitty was being held by this madman was almost Matt's undoing. He holstered his gun, turned his horse quickly, and spurred him into a gallop. Newly ran toward his mount, slung the rifle in the boot, and made chase.

Mannon watched as Matt dismounted and walked into the Long Branch. While his eyes were focused on the door of the saloon, Kitty tried to grab his gun but Mannon was quick to notice. He grabbed her, slung her to her knees, and demanded she buckle his gun belt. She studied his face and when he raised his arms brimming with confidence she quickly slung the belt out the window. He picked her up and slapped her across the face propelling her onto the bed. Mannon quickly returned to the window but Matt was gone. In a thundering crash the door flew open and Matt's fist drove Mannon out the front window of the Dodge House. As the townspeople gathered to see Mannon pick himself up out of the dirt he eyed his gun some ten feet away.

Kitty ran to the window and watched the scene unfurl below her. She watched as Mannon slowly made his way to the other side of the street carefully lowering his hands to tie the holster to his leg. She closed her eyes in silent prayer then she heard the gunshots ring out. She slowly opened them as Matt fired for the second time and Mannon's body finally fell to the dirt. She let out a long deep breath when she saw Matt walking toward the body. Her eyes were brimming with tears when Matt turned and looked up at her in the window. Her mind was racing with a feeling of elation but mostly relief that their nightmare was finally over. Matt was still alive and now they could go home and finally be a family again. She was about to run to him when he inexplicably turned and walked away disappearing into the night. She was shocked and stood for a few moments frozen in place. Hannah watched Matt walk past her then she made her way to the Dodge House as Kitty was making her way down the stairs. She met Kitty in the lobby of the hotel and put her arm around her waist. "Are you all right Kitty?" Kitty nodded, "come on let me help you up to your room." Kitty barely had enough energy to move and leaned on Hannah until they reached her room. She sat Kitty on the bed and walked over to pour her a drink. "Here, take a sip, it'll make you feel better." Kitty stared blankly at the wall and followed Hannah's request. "I'm here to listen if you want to talk."

Kitty looked up and smiled, "thanks Hannah I do appreciate it but I think I'd rather be alone. Anyway I have a few things to pack."

Hannah nodded, "all right but if you need anything you just come knocking on my door no matter what the time…you hear?"

Kitty nodded, "I hear…and thank you."

Hannah hugged her friend, "see you tomorrow morning then?" Kitty nodded as she watched Hannah leave the room. She slipped into her nightgown, finished packing, and climbed into bed. There was no need to lose any sleep…he would not be coming up the back staircase to her room tonight.

Newly and Hannah waited with Kitty for the train to take her home. After his horse broke down he caught the stage and was surprised to hear that Matt had walked away from Kitty after the showdown. As he looked over at his good friend he shook his head unable to understand Matt's behavior. Not many words were exchanged between the three as they waited but Kitty was appreciative of their support. The train slowly moved into the station and Kitty turned to say her goodbyes. As she made her way to the train Newly called after her. She turned and noticed that he was holding something in his hand. "I almost forgot I found these in Matthew's bag. I took them in case he didn't make it. I thought you might want to know that he really hadn't forgotten you or the children. I thought that might be of some comfort."

Kitty opened the billfold and smiled, "thanks Newly for everything."

He tipped his hat, "sure Miss Kitty."

She pointed at him, "and don't be a stranger, get down to see us soon…OK?"

He smiled and nodded, "I sure will." Kitty turned as Newly helped her onto the train and watched as she settled into her seat. A lone figure stood at the end of the platform and watched the three friends say goodbye. As the train slowly chugged out of the station Newly and Hannah made their way back to the center of town but the man in the shadows stayed until the train had disappeared from view.

Kitty stared at the vast landscape whizzing by her eyes. Each stop was another reminder of how very long a ride home this was and one she was not looking forward to. It had been over an hour before she realized that she still held the photos Newly had given her. She took a deep breath and opened her reticule when she felt a hand on her shoulder. She quickly looked up, "everything all right Miss Kitty?"

She tried hard to smile as she nodded, "I'm fine, Henry."

"They told me that the Marshal finally killed that there Mannon fella'. Guess that puts your mind at ease, huh? I say you were pretty lucky he was in town."

She rolled her eyes, "oh, very lucky."

"I suppose it was good seein' him again after all these years." He shook his head, "personally I'll never understand how a man so civilized could take to a life like that." He paused a moment, "don't mind tellin' you that I thought you and the Marshal made a strikin' couple." He smiled, "but your still a beautiful woman Miss Kitty," he put his hand on her shoulder, "hope you don't mind me sayin' so."

She blushed slightly, "thank you Henry, it's nice of you to say."

He waved his hand, "anyway, you have a beautiful family and Doctor Chapman is a very lucky man."

She looked down, "we're all lucky to have each other Henry."

He nodded, "ain't that the truth," He laid his hand on Kitty's back, "you let me know if there is anything I can get you...all right?"

She nodded, "sure will…thank you." He turned and made his way into the next car. She finished putting the photos into her reticule and took a deep breath. She was a very lucky woman…she had a family to go home to.

John made his descent to the first floor and walked over to the sofa. After making sure the children were in bed he was going to settle in and relax after a very long day. He lit his pipe and picked up the book he started the day Kitty left. He closed the book a moment, tugged on his pipe, and thought back to when the children were little. The days of reading stories in the evening were now replaced by homework and extracurricular activities. He had enjoyed his time playing father but shortly that role would be coming to an end. Their parents would be home in a couple of days and the children would no longer be his. That thought always made him melancholy but he knew it was important for Matt and the children to build a bonding relationship. The transition would be hard on him for all that was left now was the remembrances of what it was like to be loved. He took a deep breath and went back to reading when the front door opened. Dreading the inevitably happy scene before him he slowly looked up. He smiled when he saw Kitty enter the foyer followed by the coachman. After he put down the last of Kitty's bags she handed him a gratuity then closed the door behind him. John kept his eyes on the door and a look of puzzlement ran across his face. Kitty turned slowly and smiled weakly. John stood and as she came closer saw the bruises on her face. He quickly ran to her and gently held her face in his hand, "Kitty, are you all right…what happened?"

She looked down as he glanced at the front door. "Where's Matt? Did he do this to you?"

She looked up shocked that he could think that about Matt, "heavens no John."

He looked into his eyes, "then where is he?"

As she answered she burst into tears and leaned her body against his, "I don't know John."

He put his arm around her waist, "come on, let's sit down over here." They sat on the sofa and she held him tight as she sobbed. He rocked her and tried his best to calm her down as he stroked her back, "I heard from Festus. I told him that Matt was found so he's on his way home. I haven't heard anything from Frank yet." Eventually she began to settle down and John whispered. "Honey, the last thing I heard was that Matt was doing fine. What happened and why do you have these bruises on your face?"

She straightened up and looked into his eyes. She took a deep breath, "Matt was doing much better and we had planned to come home. I was bringing him his meal one day and he was coming down the steps of the doctor's office. I had promised to buy him a beer so off we went to the Long Branch." She smiled, "it was like old times John, me behind the bar and Matt standing in front of it. I was the happiest I had been in twelve years," she looked down and whispered, "foolishly my mind began to dream about Matt and I spending the night in our old room and…"

"And what?"

Kitty looked up, "well…some soldier boy came in and mentioned that he was tracking down a man who killed a prison warden who happened to be a former Army officer. When he said the name Jake Flagg Matt turned quickly and walked over to where Newly and this soldier were standing. Jake was an old friend of Matt's and he was convinced that the Army had the wrong man."

John looked confused, "so Matt decided he was going to find him first?"

Kitty nodded, "he took off that night."

"That still doesn't explain your bruises."

Kitty looked down, "I was so hurt by him that I told Matt that I was returning home. I was packing when I saw him from across the alley." She took a deep breath as she looked up at him, "oh, John, I know it wasn't an easy decision for Matt and the more I thought about it the more I decided that I needed to stay. I figured he wouldn't be taking too many chances if he knew I was waiting."

He gently touched her face, "but the bruises?"

"I was closing up one night and Mannon appeared at the door of the Long Branch."

John whispered, "is that the man who…who…raped you?"

Kitty nodded, "yes, and beat me. He waited for a couple of days and when Matt didn't return," she pointed to her face, "he beat me again and told Newly to find Matt and bring him back."

"Did Newly find him?"

Kitty nodded, "Matt and Newly had gone hunting one year and they stayed not too far away from where Matt had spent the last twelve years." She rolled her eyes, "thankfully Matt and he had talked about that or I don't know what would have happened."

"Then what?"

"Mannon called me to his room one night wanting to walk down memory lane. He was still so angry that I had distracted him enough years ago that he lost to Matt. Eventually we heard horse's hooves and although I couldn't see down to the street Mannon said that Matt was there. I tried to get his gun but he pulled me down and wanted me to buckle his belt." She shook her head, "he was so confident that he was going to gun Matt down that I was able to grab the belt and toss it out the window. It gave Matt enough time to get up to the room and punch Mannon hard enough that he fell to the street. Matt was able to outdraw him..." Her eyes started to water.

"Matt wasn't hurt…was he?"

She shook her head, "oh, no, he's fine."

"Then where is he?"

"John, I was so relieved that Matt was alive that I just stood there. Matt threw Mannon's gun to the side and then he turned to look up at me. He just stared at me with this blank look on his face, as if he was looking right through me, and then he walked down Front Street and disappeared into the night."

John sat stunned for a moment not knowing what to say. For more than twelve years he encouraged Kitty to not give up on finding Matt. As he sat staring into her eyes now he was angry. She had so much hope for the future when she left for Dodge but now she knew for certain that the man who she had loved forever didn't love her. John wished there was something he could do to take the pain away then he noticed a single tear slowly running down her cheek. Her lip quivering she grabbed John and hugged him, "I made love to him John," the tears and the sobbing increasing with every word, "how could he love me…then leave me?"

John rubbed her back and held her tight, "I don't know Kitty, I just don't know." He rocked her and laid gentle kisses on her hair for awhile hoping to ease her pain. "Shh…it's going to be all right Kitty…it's going to be all right."

She looked up at him, "what am I going to tell the children John?"

He shrugged, "you'll have to tell them the truth. It seems to me Matt had his chance to come home and he didn't take it. We can't keep giving them hope that their father will be a part of their lives." He took a deep breath, "truthfully Kitty, I don't think they ever expected him to be anyway. I hate to say it but I think you were the only one who held on to that hope."

She looked down, "I know you're right John. It doesn't feel very good to know you were a fool."

He ran his fingers down her face, "you are not a fool and I don't want to hear you say that ever again. From where I sit Matt's the fool for leaving one of the most remarkable women I have ever known."

She smiled and as she stared into his eyes she realized that she was looking at one of the most extraordinary men she had ever known and he deserved better. She stood and extended her hand for him to take. He stood and took her hand and walked with her to the door. He took her by the shoulders and kissed her cheek, "I'm sure you're exhausted, I'll see you tomorrow." She shook her head, took his hand, and made her way to the stairs. John swallowed hard as he followed her to the first step. He let go of her hand and looked up the stairs then back at Kitty. She nodded as he put his arm around her waist and they continued their ascent.

With her head resting on John's shoulder Kitty snored lightly as sleep was beginning to take her. After her ordeal he was thankful that she was finally able to get some rest. He smiled as he stroked her hair and kissed her forehead happy that she could surrender to the comfort of his arms. She was still such a beautiful woman and how any man could turn his back on her was beyond his comprehension. As much as he wanted to stay he knew it would be best if he left and hoped she would forgive him when she woke. He gently tried to move her arms, tightly wrapped around his chest, when she began to stir. She slowly opened her eyes, "John, where are you going?"

"I was going home, now go back to sleep."

She hugged him tighter, "you can stay, you know."

He brushed the hair out of her eyes, "I know I can but it's just that…well…I don't want the children to find me in your bed in the morning."

She smiled, "my children would love to find you in my bed."

He ran his fingers through her hair, "be that as it may I just don't want to send the wrong message, especially to Katie."

She smiled, "ever the southern gentlemen."

"Well...say what you will I just don't think it's proper until we're…"

She poked her head up, "until we're what?"

He ran his fingers down her face, "Kitty, I think you know how much I love you; at least I hope you know. I have nothing but honorable intentions," he smiled, "I just want you to know that one day I hope I can convince you to marry me."

Her eyes began to water, "oh John. I just can't…"

He placed his fingers over her lips, "Kitty, I don't expect an answer now. I know you need some time to sort out your feelings. I just want you to know that there is one man in your life that is not going anywhere and that he would be the happiest man on earth if the woman that he holds in his arms would consent to be his wife one day." A tear found its way down her cheek, "I love you Kitty," he kissed her, "now I think I better make my way home." She grabbed him into a passionate kiss. He stared at her for a moment, "now I know I better head on home." As she watched John's shadowy figure leave the room she smiled feeling better about the future.

Kitty had a surprisingly restful sleep after John left. She sat up against the headboard and stretched as last evening ran through her mind. She smiled as she made her way into her changing room. Moments later she was standing at the stove making breakfast when she heard someone coming down the back stairs. Matthew was surprised to find his mother in the kitchen. "Ma, you're back."

She smiled, "nice of you to notice."

He looked back toward the stairs, "is Dad…"

Kitty looked down, "I'm afraid your father is not with me."

Matthew moved closer and then he saw her face, anger evident in his voice, "did he do that to you?"

Kitty was shocked, "oh…heavens no Matthew. Your father would never do something like that to me."

The rest of the children slowly followed Matthew into the kitchen. Katie ran to her mother and hugged her, "oh Mom, I'm glad you're home." She looked toward the stairs, "is Daddy here?"

She looked back at Kitty, "what happened to your face Mom?"

Matthew was still not convinced, "I think Dad did it."

Kitty took a deep breath, "all right children please sit down at the table and I'll tell you about my trip." With undivided attention Kitty began, "I will begin by saying that your father survived his injury and is alive and well."

"Then where is he Mom? Is he going to come home later?"

Kitty shook her head, "I don't know Katie."

"I told you he didn't love us." Matthew folded his arms across his chest as Kitty glared at him.

Katie turned to him, "that's not true Matthew," she turned to Kitty, "tell him Mom, tell him that's not true." Kitty wasn't sure what to say. "You did tell him about us…didn't you Mom?"

She smiled, "of course I did and he was very proud of all of you. He could hardly wait to come home and see how you had grown."

"Then he'd be here if he was so interested."

Kitty could see that Matthew was going to be a hard sell. "Just before we were to come home your father found out that a friend of his was in trouble so he went to help him."

Matthew snickered, "another friend."

Kitty was trying to remain calm, "Matthew I would appreciate it if you would let me finish before you made any more comments. You'll have enough time to have your say."

He lowered his head, "yes, Ma."

"While he was gone an outlaw had come to town looking for your father and me. He wanted to kill us because your father had put him in prison many years before. That's why I have the bruises on my face."

Katie was wide eyed, "he beat you Mom?"

"Well…let's just say he slapped me a few times. I got a few good shots in too."

"I thought outlaws were only in books Mommy."

Kitty shook her head, "They are very real Russell, I'm afraid. Your father spent a lifetime bringing them to justice."

"Wow…that's what our father did? He must have been really special."

Kitty nodded, "He was Joseph, the best there was."

Katie was intrigued, "so Mom, what happened after the bad man slapped you?"

"He made your Uncle Newly go after your father and bring him back to Dodge. He wanted to kill your father in a draw."

Katie was puzzled, "A draw?"

Russell was ready with an explanation, "yeah, that's when two men face each other and draw their guns from their holsters. I've read about that, just didn't think my father could do that though."

"He didn't like to do that Russell but sometimes it was very necessary."

"But Mom, Daddy didn't lose to this outlaw…did he?"

Kitty shook her head, "no Katie, he didn't."

Katie smiled very proud of her father, "he wasn't wounded or anything…was he?"

Kitty again shook her head, "no Katie, he wasn't."

She looked puzzled, "then why wasn't he on the train with you?"

Kitty paused a moment, "Katie, I think your father needed some time alone to think. Whenever he was involved in a gun battle like that it bothered him for awhile."

With hope in her eyes Katie looked up at Kitty, "then he'll probably be home right after he finishes thinking...right Mom?"

Kitty took a deep breath, "Katie, I wish I could say that your father will be home in a few days but it's not that simple. I'm afraid I've been giving all of you false hope that one day your father would be coming home. I can't say for sure any more. I think we have to go on with our lives and not think about your father returning. I'm not saying that he never will but chances are he won't."

They all stared at Kitty in silence then Matthew stood, "no big deal, I knew years ago that our father didn't love us." John was coming through the front door as Matthew finished his sentence. "We've gotten along all these years without him, we really don't need him." As he turned to leave he brushed past John. He looked over at Kitty and then turned to follow Matthew.

He found Matthew sitting on the top step of the porch, head resting on his arms that were slung across his knees. John sat down next to him, "are you all right Matthew?"

"Fine!"

"I guess your mother told you about her trip?" He nodded. "I suppose not seeing your father here was a bit of a surprise."

He shook his head, "I expected it."

"Then I'd have to say you were the only one."

Matthew lifted his head off his arms and looked at John. "You really thought my father was coming home with my mother?"

John nodded, "I have to say I thought he would."

Matthew looked puzzled, "why would you even think that?

John shrugged, "I guess because I knew your parents in Dodge and then here for awhile and I observed how much they loved each other. Given a second chance I thought for sure your father would have taken it."

Matthew chuckled, "they certainly had you fooled…at least my father did anyway."

John shook his head, "no, I don't think so. No matter where your father is now I think he still loves your mother very much."

Matthew was still not convinced, "Uncle John, how would you know that?"

"Because I know, that's all."

Matthew eyed his uncle, "because you love my mother?"

John smiled, "it wouldn't do much good to deny it." He placed his hand on Matthew's shoulder, "son, your mother has been through a lot these past couple of months and I think we have to remember that. Now, whatever your mother needs or wants to do I'm going to support that one hundred percent. What we have to keep in mind is that your mother loved your father very much and we have to be very sensitive about those feelings…understand?"

Matthew nodded, "I don't know why she just can't forget him."

John patted Matthew on the back, "you'll find out one day Matthew."

Matthew paused for a moment as he looked at John, "are you going to ask my Mom to marry you?"

John looked out toward the road, "it's not that easy."

"But you said you loved my Mom and…"

John looked back at Matthew, "your father is not dead Matthew and there is always the possibility that he could come home. As much as I wish things could be different, they're not." He paused, "when your mother decides the time is right…then it will be right."

Matthew nodded, "she's just wasting her time always thinking about him," he looked at John, "but I guess it's her choice. I just wish she could be happy."

"She is Matthew; she finds happiness in you and your sister and brothers." John looked straight ahead and paused a moment, "I think we've made a nice life for ourselves here and whether your father comes home or not I think we'll be all right."

Matthew smiled, "I think so too…thanks Uncle John."

He leaned over and hugged John and John patted his back, "now, what do you say we go back inside and finish our breakfast?"

Kitty smiled when she saw John walk back in the kitchen with Matthew. "Ma, I'll finish up here, why don't you and Uncle John sit down at the table." John took his place at the head of the table and Kitty sat next to him. She reached over and took his hand and he held it tight. They stared into each other's eyes and smiled. Matthew watched the two adults and smiled also. He didn't know how his parents looked when they were together but from his vantage point his uncle and mother looked pretty much in love.

With the house to herself Kitty finished clearing the breakfast table. She hummed as she washed the dishes and there was a bounce in her step. Maggie was surprised to find Kitty home. "Oh…welcome home Miss Kitty." She gave her a big hug then looked toward the back stairs, "I guess by your chipper mood it means Matt is home."

Kitty turned serious as she shook her head, "no, he's not Maggie."

Maggie looked puzzled, "you sounded too happy for him to be dead."

Kitty nodded, "he just decided not to come home with me." Kitty moved the chair so Maggie could sit and she sat down next to her.

Maggie grabbed Kitty's arm, "I'm so sorry Miss Kitty…what happened?"

Kitty related the story and Maggie took a deep breath, "so that's why your face is bruised." Kitty nodded, "I just can't believe Matt would walk away like that after all you went through to be with him."

"Maggie, maybe it's for the best."

"What do you mean?"

"I had a lot of time to think on the train and I just can't keep spending all of my time wishing things could be different. If my going to Dodge wasn't proof enough how much I still love him then I don't know what else I can do." She took a deep breath, "no, Maggie, you were right. I have to start thinking about life without Matt."

She reached over again and took Kitty's arm, "I'm so sorry Miss Kitty. I know that must have been a very hard decision for you to make."

Kitty shook her head, "Maggie, when I came home I was pretty devastated and truthfully at my lowest point since the day Matt had left but then I looked over at John with his smiling face and welcoming arms and eventually I began to feel better about the future."

Maggie smiled, "he's a good man Miss Kitty."

Kitty nodded, "I'm beginning to realize that." She smiled, "he talked about us being married one day..." Kitty waved her hand, "oh, I don't know Maggie."

Maggie looked confused, "what don't you know?"

Kitty chuckled, "imagine at my age marrying again."

Maggie smiled, "he loves you and your children Miss Kitty, that's plain to see." She stared at her for a moment, "and you certainly sounded very happy this morning."

Kitty shrugged, "I guess it's always nice to know that someone loves you."

Maggie smiled again, "oh, I think it goes much deeper than that."

Kitty looked puzzled, "what do you mean?"

"I think for the first time you're opening up to the notion of falling in love with Dr. John."

Kitty looked down, "when I'm with him Maggie I am happy but then…"

"But then what?"

"I think about Matt and I feel as if I'm…well…betraying him somehow and then I can't think of anything else." She took a deep breath, "there are days I wish I could let go of the past and let my heart love again but Matt is always there. I don't know if that is ever going to change."

"You keep remembering Matt walking away from you in Dodge and I think you'll find it easier to decide." She patted Kitty's arm, "I'm going to the store do you need anything?"

Kitty shook her head, "no, thank you Maggie."

Maggie stood, "then I'll see you later for dinner." Kitty watched Maggie leave the room and then she smiled and went back to cleaning the kitchen.

There were a few noticeable changes since the last time he was there. As he walked down the train steps he wondered if he still belonged. He sat on one of the benches for awhile and took in the scene before him. He couldn't decide whether he should go to Russell's or straight to the house. Having made his decision he left the depot.

Kitty was enjoying the quiet as she read the day's newspaper. Sipping on a cup of coffee she was easing into life in New Orleans again. She smiled when she thought about the night before and how nice it was to have a man hold her while she slept. Her reverie was broken by a knock at the door. She laid the newspaper on the table and walked into the foyer. She opened the door, "I don't believe it…I never thought I'd see you again!" She quickly wrapped her arms around him. Festus smiled as he pulled her closer. "It is so good to see you again Festus. Now, put your bag over here, and come on inside." He obediently laid his bag down in the foyer and with her arms securely around his they walked to the sofa.

He looked around the room, "Dr. Chapman tolt me that ya found ol' Matthew. He said that he was hurt some."

Kitty nodded, "yes, he was stabbed pretty bad."

"He be all right now Miss Kitty?"

She waved her hand, "oh, sure, he's fine. You know him Festus he survives against all odds."

"Who was it that be stabbin' him?"

She shook her head, "someone who broke out of prison and came after him."

Festus nodded, "guessin' there be a lot of them." He looked more closely at her, "somethin' happen to ya Miss Kitty?"

She nodded, "a little present from Mannon."

"Mannon?"

She nodded again, "he was released from prison and came straight to Dodge looking for Matt and me. Matt went out trying to save a friend and Mannon found me in the Long Branch." She touched her face, "he got a little impatient waiting for Matt."

Festus was hesitant, "he…I mean…Matthew…he isn't…"

Kitty smiled, "he killed him this time Festus."

Festus shook his head, "I plumb thought he had the last time." He looked toward the steps, "sleepin' a little late…is he?"

Kitty looked down, "I don't know where he is Festus."

He looked puzzled, "he didn't come on home wit' ya?" She shook her head, "that there knot head…I wish I'd 'er found him…might be able to talk some sense inta him."

Kitty smiled, "you almost did." Festus looked confused, "Matt told me that you came across an Indian woman at a cabin. He was staying there, she was afraid that you were someone who was out to kill him."

He slapped his thigh, "I'd knowd it! She be lookin' like she wanted to tell me somethin'. I shoulda' stayed and played out my hunch." A very pregnant Little Fawn crossed his mind and he wasn't sure if it would be proper to tell Kitty that he might know the reason Matt wasn't home.

He stared at her for a moment, "Festus, are you all right?"

He put his head down, "yes ma'am it's just that…," he looked back up, "ya knowd ma'am that I'd never want ta do anythin' ta hurt ya but somethin' I'm 'bout to tell ya might just do that."

Kitty looked puzzled, "tell me what Festus?"

He shook his head, "it's not easy fer me to tell ya this Miss Kitty but I be thinkin' Matthew might have a youngin' another place but here."

"What?"

He nodded, "that there Indian shemale was expectin' a youngin'. Might be why ol' Matthew didn't come home wit' ya."

Kitty smiled, "Little Fawn was pregnant all right but the father wasn't Matt, it was her husband's Running Fox. Matt told me all about them."

Festus breathed out a sigh of relief, "I'm mighty happy to hear that." He furrowed his brow, "then why didn't Matthew come on home wit' ya?"

She shook her head, "I wish I had the answer Festus. I guess he doesn't love me like I thought he did."

Festus didn't know what to say so he reached over and patted her hand. His eyes scanned the room, "mighty quiet taday."

"Oh, the children are off with their friends and John is down at the hospital."

"Dr. Chapman been a big help ta ya...has he?"

Kitty smiled, "I don't know what I would have done without him."

Festus nodded, "he's a good man Miss Kitty. I think ya knowd I'd didn't take ta him much when he first came ta Dodge but afta' ya come ta knowd a person ya see things ya didn't see afore."

She raised her eyebrows, "I know what you mean Festus."

"I'd thought fer sure Maggie and ol' Doc be runnin' round here. Where they at?"

Kitty had dreaded this day since they laid Doc to rest. She treaded carefully, "well…you see Festus…Maggie and Doc bought their own house."

Festus shot up, "I'd knowd it! Fer years I tolt that there ol' skinflint that I knowd he have money but he'd make that face he'd always make and tolt me I didn't have a lick of sense. Fiddle Miss Kitty I knowd I wasn't crazy… I knowd Doc had money."

"Yeah…well…"

"And I betcha' it's a big ol' house and he and Maggie don't even knowd what ta do wit' it."

"Festus I think you…"

"Yer right 'bout that Miss Kitty. I can hardly wait ta see what the money he cheated his patients out of brought fer the ole scudder."

"Festus, I think you better sit down."

"Not now Miss Kitty I wanna' get over to ol' Doc's and harangue him 'bout all the money he has."

"Festus, if I can just have a word with you for a moment."

He waved his hand, "oh don't ya go worryin' that I might say somethin' that might offend ol' Doc. Now, ifn ya can tell me where he's at…"

"Festus, if you will just sit down…"

"Don't got no time Miss Kitty, ya just tell me where he be livin'…"

Kitty shouted, "he isn't Festus." He looked confused as Kitty whispered, "Doc died just before I went to Dodge."

Festus stood still for a moment then slowly sat next to Kitty eyes blinking rapidly trying to hold back the tears. "How'd it happen?"

Kitty shrugged, "he died in his sleep. Maggie tried to wake him…"

Festus nodded and whispered, "I tolt him a million times that he needed to take better care of hisself…but he wouldn't listen ta me…ornery ole scudder."

Kitty put her hand on his shoulder, "are you going to be all right?"

He sniffled slightly as he nodded, "I'll be all right Miss Kitty. I guess there be no reason to go see the house now."

Kitty smiled, "I'm sure Maggie would love to see you."

He nodded, "I'll doer one day but I'd like ta go see ol' Doc first."

"He's buried at Lafayette Cemetery down on Washington. I can have a coach take you there if you like."

Festus stood, "that's all right Miss Kitty. I need ta take a little walk first. I'll see ya directly." Kitty stood and followed him to the front door. As he opened the door he turned back to Kitty, "it just don't seem the same anymore…does it Miss Kitty?" She shook her head then kissed him on the cheek and hugged him. She watched him walk down the pathway to the road then closed the door.

Kitty walked back to the sofa and picked up the paper off the table. She picked up her glasses and thought about Festus. He was right, so much had changed and the two most important men in her life were gone. She sighed deep in thought when John walked into the foyer. He noticed the carpetbag on the floor and his heart sank. Afraid he might be walking into a very intimate moment he thought about leaving but something made him stay. He closed the door and noticed Kitty sitting staring blankly in space. He slowly walked in her direction, "what has you so deep in thought this beautiful sunny Saturday?"

His words broke her from her trance, "hmm?"

"I was just commenting on your faraway look."

Kitty smiled and took his hand, "I guess I was."

"Something wrong Kitty?"

She shook her head and stroked his face, "no, now that you're here." He looked confused, "what's the matter John; you think I can't miss you every now and again."

He smiled, "it's not that it's just that I saw the carpetbag in the foyer and I thought…"

"That Matt was home?" He nodded, "no, but Festus is." She stood, "I had to tell him that Doc had died. That was so hard for me John."

John put his arms around her waist and pulled her closer, "I know that must have been. I'm sorry I wasn't here."

She cupped his face in her hands, "but you're here now and that is all that matters." They stared into each other's eyes and John swore there was a different look in them now. She lightly brushed her lips against his and he gently responded. They teased each other until their bodies were griped in a passionate embrace. John quickly pulled away hoping she didn't feel his need for her. She walked up behind him and wrapped her arms around his waist as she laid her head against his back. "It's all right John."

He laid his arms over hers, "Kitty, it's not all right. I wish it could be but it's not. I want you more than I have ever wanted another woman in my life." He began to run his hands over her arms, "After Jane, I was hurt so deeply that I swore I wouldn't get close again to any woman but then I came to Dodge and there you were. You were a reoccurring dream of mine and there were days I would daydream about our life together but then I found out that you were very much in love with Matt." He shook his head, "many a night I would have given anything for you to look at me like you looked at him."

She removed her arms from around him and stood in front of him. "I'm looking at you now John." She smiled, "there is no one else."

He stood for a moment staring at her, "You don't know how much I wish that to be true."

She smiled, "I could prove it to you if you have some time."

She kissed him, "Kitty, I don't know…"

"I do know John. It took me too many years and a final humiliation by Matt to snap me out of this fantasy I've been living in. I realized something in Dodge…that everyone is more important to him than me. His sense of duty to near strangers is stronger than his love for me." She stroked his face, "you have never wavered in the love you feel for me John and you have always been there. You spent so much time and money in trying to find Matt and almost lost your life because of it. You've been a very good father to my children when they needed one the most and you have been the most loving and kindest man that any woman could ever ask for. No, John, I know what I should have known years ago and I think sometime in the future you might have to find a way to make an honest woman out of me." John was stunned and words were not coming very easily. "I can't believe I left you speechless." She kissed him, "maybe you would like to communicate in a non-verbal way." She kissed him again and ran her fingers through his hair.

He gently took her face in his hands and kissed her tenderly, "oh, Kitty, I love you so."

She smiled, "I know you do John. Now, why don't we go upstairs? I think we have a few things to discuss." He smiled as he drew her into a passionate kiss.

The door flung opened and the two lovers jumped. "Ma, do you know who I just saw?" They both tried to catch their breaths as Matthew stared, "oh, sorry Ma, I didn't mean to interrupt you and Uncle John."

Kitty waved her hand, "that's all right Matthew."

"Uncle Festus…he's back Ma!"

Kitty smiled, "I've already seen him Matthew."

"Isn't that great news?"

"It really is but next time you don't need to startle us half to death in the telling."

Matthew put his head down, "I said I was sorry Ma."

She pushed the hair off his face, "I know you did."

John excused himself, "Kitty, I need to go back to the hospital for a little while but I'll see you later for dinner."

She smiled, "I'd like that." He kissed her and left.

Matthew turned to his mother, "I hope I didn't break up anything important Ma."

She smiled, "nothing important."

"I mean I'd hate it if Uncle John was gonna' ask you to marry him or something and I stopped that from happening."

Kitty took her son by his shoulders. "Matthew, your uncle is a very romantic man. I'm sure if he had such a notion in his head he wouldn't be asking me in the middle of our foyer."

"But Ma…"

"But Ma nothing. Your uncle will always be here whether we marry or not and I don't want you to ever worry about that."

"All I was gonna' say was it would be nice to stop calling him uncle one day. He's been so much more to me than that."

"I know he's been Matthew."

"I just don't want Uncle John finding another woman like he did before because you were still waiting for my father to come home. It's OK to believe he's not coming home now Ma…really it is."

"I don't want you worrying about me or your uncle. We'll figure this out one day, I promise."

Matthew looked at his mother with a pleading face, "don't wait too long now Ma…promise."

She smiled, "I promise."

"OK," he quickly ran to the door, "I'll be back for dinner."

"Wait, where are you going?"

Matthew stopped short and turned to Kitty, "Tommy got a new bike that he wants to show me but I'll be home for dinner." In a second he was gone and Kitty shook her head as she headed back toward the sofa to finish reading the paper.

Festus walked along the road still shaking his head over how big Matthew had grown. Without a doubt it was plain to see that was Matt Dillon's son. With spurs jangling, he continued on his way to the cemetery still in shock over Doc's passing. He walked through rows of headstones until he came upon his friend. He stood staring at the stone slab for awhile then he took a deep breath. "I failed ya Doc, I didn't brung Matthew home like I tolt ya I would…I don't like breakin' promises 'specially ta ya and it don't make me feel none too good that I did." He fiddled with his hat, "Miss Kitty tolt me that I did find the place though but the Indian shemale tolt me he wasn't there. I had me a feelin' 'bout that there shemale that she wern't tellin' me the truth and I shoulda' stayed close to see ifn my hunch be right." He paused a moment still wondering about the child that Little Fawn was carrying. "I don't want ta be thinkin' this way Doc but that there Indian was carryin' a youngin'. Now Miss Kitty said that it be an Indian brave who be the daddy but I can't stop thinkin' that maybe that child be Matthew's and that might be why he didn't come home before or wit' Miss Kitty when he had the chance." He flailed his arms, "ah, fiddle Doc, I knowd that is the craziest idea anybody ever had and I just be a hopin' that ain't be true...that's all." He looked up and out over the horizon, "Miss Kitty tells me that ya and Miss Maggie bought yerselves a home. See Doc I knowd ya had money ya ol' skinflint and I knowd ya tellin' people ya had no money was ta fool them inta thinkin' ya had no money but I knowd Doc…I knowd it all along." Festus pointed his thumb in the direction of the house, "I'm gonna' head on over ta Miss Maggie's ta see her when I leave here. I knowd ya like that," he pointed toward the grave, "and don't ya worry now Doc I be lookin' afta her. I'll make sure she be takin' right good care of." Festus put his hands up, "not like that Doc…no…I be respectin' what ya and Miss Maggie had. I mean I just be makin' sure that she don't need nothin' and that she can keep that there home ya two had." Tears started to well in his eyes. "It wern't suppose ta be this here way Doc. We were suppose ta all be together, you, Matthew, and me." He stared at the grave, "Miss Kitty and Miss Maggie are real nice but they're shemales. I knowd I have Sam and Dr. John but it ain't like it should be." He shrugged, "I guess I can watch over Matthew's youngins but I be thinkin' Dr. John already done that. No, it ain't gonna' be the same here anymore." He wiped away the tears that were slowly running down his cheek. "I would give anythin' ifn ya could make fun of me just one more time Doc…ta just harangue me a lil' bit...I'm gonna' miss that most of all." He laid the flowers he had picked up along the way near the headstone, "rest in peace…ya ornery ole scudder." He stood, "I'll see ya tomorra' Doc." He finished wiping the remaining tears then he turned and made his way back to Kitty's.