Chapter 29

Lou walked with Buck along with Rosalyn and Maddie around the back pasture. Lou watched as the two girls went to pick small flowers. She saw some of herself in Rosalyn but Maddie looked just like her father. Lou hadn't known her mother to be able to compare her to her but even if she did, that girl was all Jimmy. She wasn't scared of anything even at such a young age. They walked on a little farther until Buck thought it best to turn around. It had been almost two months since Lou left Jimmy behind. Teaspoon had come home last month but Kid had stayed. The only thing Teaspoon said was that he seemed to be healing well and that he thought they were making progress. She was depressed most of the time though she tried not to show it. They stopped to watch the wind blow threw the tall grass.

"We best be getting back. It'll be getting dark soon."

"Yeah. Thanks for walking with us. So peaceful out today."

"It's not a problem. I'd do anything to help you."

"You're a good friend, Buck."

"I think we will see him riding in with Kid any day now. A changed man."

"Wishful thinking." Said Lou trying to smile.

"You expecting anybody?"

"No, why?"

Lou looked up to see two horses riding their way. She felt hopeful anticipation rising up within her even though she couldn't see the riders for the sun. She felt her heart racing until she saw who it was. She looked at Buck.

"Get the girls, Buck! Run, it's him!"

Buck didnt hesitate he turned to race toward the girls as a shot rang out. Lou screamed out as Buck fell forward to the ground.

"Run!" Lou yelled at the little girls.

She raced toward the girls as she heard the horses coming up behind her. The man jumped down and grabbed her. She kicked and screamed. The man hit her knocking her down. He hit her and grabbed her again. He picked her up and held her still. Another man came back over holding both the girls. She tried to fight again when she saw the girls crying. Gordon sat on top his horse looking down at her.

"Which one is that whore Lilah's bastard child? I know one is here cause my man followed you and your blonde friend. So which one is it? I'm guessing the younger one."

Lou didn't answer as she looked from girl to girl.

"Fine. Take them both."

"No!" Screamed Lou.

The man holding her hit her again. He pulled her to his face.

"Tell him, it's him or the girls. Hick's Pass. He'll know."

"What if I told you he died?" Stuttered Lou.

"I wouldn't believe you but if he did and doesn't show, then I guess his child will too. I'll just wipe any trace left of him away. Works for me."

"He ain't here."

"Find him. Five days." He said as he hit Lou again knocking her out.

Kid was walking around Mason's farm holding onto Jimmy as he walked when he saw a rider coming fast. He helped Jimmy over inside the barn to hide him until he knew who it was. He stepped out and smiled when he saw Cody.

"Come on. It's Cody."

Kid got next to Jimmy as he slowly made his way out. Cody saw them and ran over.

"Cody. Where's the fire?" Laughed Kid.

"Kid, I need to talk to ya."

"What's going on Cody?"

"You look good, Jimmy. Need some weight put on ya and you'll be good as new." Cody said changing the subject.

"Don't try it. What's wrong?" Asked Jimmy.

"Maybe we should go inside." Insisted Cody.

"That's a good idea, Jimmy. Your still a little pale. That's about enough for today anyway." Said Kid.

Jimmy nodded but eyed Cody. Kid got under Jimmy's arm and helped him back inside. Mason knew something seemed off. He walked over to listen as they sat.

"I came with news. Ya ain't gonna like it." Said Cody.

"What?" Asked Jimmy.

"Gordon got the girls."

"The fuck?!" Said Jimmy leaning forward.

"What happened, Cody?" Said Kid as he put his hand on Jimmy's shoulder to make him sit and listen.

"He surprised her and Buck while they were out walking. They shot Buck in the back."

Jimmy frowned and shook his head.

"Lou?" Asked Kid.

"They beat her up pretty good. Told her you had five days. You for the girls."

"When did it happen?" Asked Kid.

"Two days ago."

"Where?" Asked Jimmy getting frustrated.

"Place called Hick's Pass. We ain't never heard of it."

"I got to go." Said Jimmy pushing himself up to his feet.

"Mason!" Yelled Kid.

Mason walked in the room.

"Can he ride? Something's come up." Said Kid.

"He should be able to. I would be concerned about the fatigue and weakness. He has yet to get his strength back. If he can stay in the saddle, his other wounds are fine. I normally would say no, but I heard what you said. He has to go."

"I'm going regardless." Said Jimmy.

"Jimmy, you have to keep eating. That's your biggest problem. Eat and you will be fine."

"I'll get your horses." Said Cody running to the barn.

"Thank you for everything, Mason."

"It was our pleasure. Tell Teaspoon to don't be a stranger. The only thing he owes me is a visit now and then. "

"Will do." Kid said shaking his hand.

Mason walked over to Jimmy. He got his hand to shake it. He pulled him close.

"I have never said much on the subject but, life is about learning to love and to forgive. You have a chance at a love like no other and you'd be foolish not to let bygones be bygones and live your life to the fullest. It's there right in front you if only, you will forgive yourself and let it in. Now go."

Jimmy looked in Mason's face. He nodded as Kid helped him on his horse. The three rode out the yard.