Tying Up Loose Ends

by LesleySundance

Sad news takes Heyes and Kid back to Denver and Rebecca, six months after my first story 'Making Ends Meet.' Adventure awaits. Sexual Situations and some violence. But edited from the AO3 version to be less explicit.

Title: Tying up Loose Ends

Summary: Sad news takes Heyes and Kid back to Denver and Rebecca, six months after my first story 'Making Ends Meet.' Adventure awaits. Sexual Situations and some violence. But edited from the AO3 version to be less explicit.

"Heyes, I don't feel like playin. Can't see no trouble brewin' or anyone who might be a problem, so I'm goin' to go sit outside and enjoy the fresh air."

Heyes nodded as he eyed the tables, obviously attempting to figure out which would be his best choice to win a decent amount from."Shouldn't be more than a hour or so." Kid shook his head, thinking it'd be more like three.

After Heyes had chosen and settled in, Kid did a final check round to confirm the lack of threats, then walked onto the small porch outside the saloon. There were always chairs set out and despite the fine weather they were free. He sat down on one of them and tipped his hat slightly over his eyes. Relaxed in the warm sun, he stretched his legs out in front of him, happy to have nothing to do except let his mind drift to what they planned to do next. Green Acres was a pretty little town and the people friendly, but after ten days both of them were ready to move on, maybe towards one of the larger towns in Wyoming or Colorado. This close to the Colorado border they could easily go either way.

Kid thought he'd probably have to remind Heyes about eating before they left, because his partner had an annoying habit of forgetting to factor meals into their plans.

With nothing much playing on his mind, he dozed until footsteps come close to his chair. He pushed his hat back, thinking it was Heyes, but instead saw a well-dressed woman dashing past him. Her carelessly discarded newspaper was blown by the light wind to land at Kid's feet. He bent down to pick it up, thinking Heyes, always keen for something to read, might enjoy looking through it later. As he glanced at the front page, he was surprised to see that it was The Queen Bee, a paper he recognised from his time in Denver. Mrs Barton often had a copy with her. The sight of the newspaper brought a reminiscent smile. These last six months had been some of the most peaceful he and Heyes could remember and they owed a lot of it to two ladies in Denver.

He glanced through the paper not paying a huge amount of attention to what he was reading, until a small article banded in black caught his eye.

We mourn one of our greatest supporters, Mrs Rosemary Barton.

She was tragically run over and killed by a carriage when crossing the road.

She will be sorely missed and is a great loss to those who knew her.

Turn to page 6 for full obituary.

Kid hurriedly turned to page six, hoping that his fears wouldn't be realised, but as he started to read they were instead confirmed. With a heavy sigh, his hold slackened on the paper and he stared out into the town. But instead of the small main street he saw the dusty side-walks of Denver and its smart bright hotels.

Kid was still lost in thought when Heyes coming up beside him made him start slightly. He turned to look at his partner who was eyeing him with some concern. "Not like you, even these days not to hear someone coming up behind you. Less you were sleeping with your eyes open. Amnesty making you soft Kid?"

"Don't start, Heyes. I ain't in the mood." Kid snapped at him, although it wasn't Heyes that he was annoyed at.

Heyes flopped down in the chair next to Kid and glared. "What's eating you? I ain't been that long and even you can't be hungry so soon after that huge lunch."

Kid grunted and thrust the paper at Heyes,"Page three."

Kid watched as Heyes turned to page three, quickly read, then flipped a few pages to what Curry figured was the obituary. After a few moments he looked up, his expression sympathetic. "Oh, Kid. She seemed quite a lady. No mention of when the funeral is, but.." He looked at the front page. "This paper ain't more than a day old. We set off now we'll probably make it in time to attend."

Kid shrugged. "Ain't sure it'd be right us going and I doubt I'd be welcome, Heyes."

Heyes smiled gently at him. "Mebbe so, but I bet you still want to go."

Kid couldn't quite smile back at him. "I'd like to pay my respects, but don't want to be embarrassin' the family or us!"

"Think we can manage not to be noticed. You ain't gonna be happy if we don't at least try."

Kid nodded, Heyes was right, he felt he owed it to her to make the attempt.

ASJ

They slipped into the packed church and sat at the back, trying to be as inconspicuous as they could. Curry shook his head and scowled throughout the eulogy, causing his partner to glance at him several times, before finally whispering tersely." Kid, you oughta see your expression. You're even making me nervous and I've seen you when you're really mad. I think it's a good thing you ain't got your gun on. Kid didn't think that comment deserved an answer so just continued to stare ahead, until Heyes said more kindly. "Kid, what's wrong?"

"What they're sayin' it just ain't her. They ain't doin' her justice."

"Well you likely saw a different side to her than most folk." Heyes' voice was carefully neutral. He appreciated that Heyes' had a point about his glare. He thought he'd noticed a couple of people glancing at him with some anxiety, so with some effort he schooled his face into what he hoped was a more appropriate expression.

At the end of the service, Heyes leaned into him. "It's best we go out with the crowd. We're less likely to be noticed if we do, and I'm thinking you ain't keen on being seen."

Kid nodded vigorously in agreement, very eager to avoid having to explain exactly how he knew Mrs Barton. They walked out into the churchyard in the middle of rest of the exiting congregation. Kid was disappointed to not have caught a glimpse of Rebecca, but if he was being totally honest with himself, he knew that was probably for the best. The sense of unfinished business between them, would only complicate any meeting.

Just before they reached the church gate, Kid saw a man hurrying towards them and waving at them to stop. He stiffened before tapping Heyes on the shoulder to get his attention. Dammit they'd almost made it. Heyes followed his gaze and frowned, before saying. "Just claim to be someone she employed, a handyman or something." Heyes squinted into the sun to briefly study the approaching figure then asked. "You know who he is?"

Kid shook his head in the negative before muttering."Hopin' he don't know me neither. Almost like bein' wanted all over again." He met Heyes' gaze with a rueful shrug. "I'm sorry Heyes. If he does know me or suspects just how well acquainted me and Mrs Barton were, it won't be too pretty. But nothin' I can't handle. You can duck out and wait for me at the saloon if you want. I'm probably gonna need a drink one way or the other." But before Heyes could respond the man had reached them.

He was tall and thin, his face lacked the moustache that seemed so fashionable in Denver and his hair was shorter than many of the men attending the service. Not one to follow fashion then thought Kid a little surprised. Dark shadows were obvious under his eyes and he looked weary. But his expression was interested as he gazed at Kid, before his gaze flicked to Heyes, before settling back onto Kid. Jed shook his proffered hand a little warily as he had no idea who the man was and why he'd approached them and that made him a little nervous. It seemed his fears were justified as the man said. "My name is Henry Barton, I am." He cleared his throat and tried again. "Was Rosemary's husband."

Kid glanced back at Heyes, who was looking slightly uneasy. Ignoring the sudden tight feeling in his shoulders Kid said in what he hoped was a calm tone. "I'm sorry for your loss, Sir."

He waited for the man to ask exactly who he was and why he was there, but instead after letting go of his hand the man said softly. "And you're Jed, if I'm not mistaken."

Curry felt Heyes start behind him and suddenly wished he was facing a posse or maybe even a judge, rather than standing here. He couldn't think of anything to say and looked a little frantically back at Heyes, who was on full alert and appeared prepared to drag him away so they could both flee. "I..."

"Don't worry, Son, I'm not here to challenge you. You have close to thirty years on me and I know your reputation."

Kid wasn't sure how to respond, but managed a strangled. "I meant no disrespect, Sir." He felt Heyes squeeze his shoulder. There seemed very little chance that this wouldn't disintegrate into a very public and extremely embarrassing scene. He should have listened to his initial fears and stayed away. He didn't have any right to be here, not really. He could feel a flush of embarrassment or maybe even shame heating his skin and he looked down at his feet, unable to meet the man's gaze. Heyes started to tug on his arm, although they could hardly leave now, unless they ran.

Barton cleared his throat and Kid looked up to see his grey eyes gleaming with warmth and something that could only be described as amusement. "Forgive me boys, that was really quite cruel. Not sure what came over me. I blame that preacher, he quite refused to listen to any of my suggestions. Rosemary and I were married for nearly thirty five years and the woman he was talking about wasn't the woman I loved. I couldn't help but notice that you were of the same mind."

Jed managed to nod at that. "He didn't do her justice, Sir, not even close."

Barton rubbed his eyes wearily as he smiled a little sadly. "I know this may surprise you boys, but Rosemary loved me too. However my." He stopped, swallowing hard before continuing. "However by mutual agreement, we often sought physical pleasures outside our marriage."

Kid heard Heyes splutter slightly, obviously as surprised as he was at Barton's words. Taking Kid's right hand firmly in both of his the man added still smiling. "My wife spoke most fondly of you. It was very easy to agree when she sought my assistance in order to ensure your amnesty was granted. She would have been most gratified that you made the effort to attend."

With that he let go of Kid's hand and walked away leaving a stunned silence. Heyes cleared his throat. "You know, Kid, I ain't never gonna work out the rich. But I'm sure glad they do things a bit different." His voice held a note of surprised wonder as he clapped Kid on the shoulder. "Bet you're really in need of that drink now, partner!"

Kid smiled as an idea came to him. "To be honest Heyes, I'm kinda hungry." He paused, a little reluctant to carry on, suddenly feeling a little stupid. But after a mental shrug he decided he might as well just say what was on the mind. The worst his partner would do was laugh and tell him he sure had strange notions. "You remember that last Sunday we were in Denver, when we said goodbye to Mrs Barton and Rebecca?"

Heyes nodded "You mean at that hotel?"

"Yeah, well that's where we always used to arrange the..." He glanced across at Heyes, "What did you call 'em again?"

Heyes grinned at him. "Trysts."

Kid rolled the word over in his head and smiled back as he said. "Yeah them trysts. I know the place ain't real fancy, Heyes but the food's pretty good. Least it was six months ago." It just seemed to him that it'd be an appropriate place to say his final goodbye to Mrs Barton, but he wasn't sure why. He stopped again unsure of his friend's reaction and was already thinking of somewhere else to suggest.

Heyes' expression had softened though and he was already nodding in agreement. "Good idea, Kid. Sounds like a place where the food don't cost more than your suit."

Kid half-glared at him, caught between being touched by his understanding and suspicious that he was making some sarcastic comment about his clothes and asked half-defensively. "Whatcha mean Heyes?"

Heyes gazing at him innocently did nothing to allay his suspicion."Just saying Denver ain't cheap is all, Kid."

Kid decided not to say anything else and instead simply walked out of the churchyard. Heyes followed him making no further comment either. They walked in comfortable silence at a brisk pace as Kid led them through the dusty streets towards the corner of Elm and Parkin. The hotel was exactly as he remembered it. Still a little in need of a paint and brush up, but certainly not a dive. The smell of well-cooked food made his mouth water as they entered. Heyes was looking around him with a half-smile on his lips, the building like many a place they'd spent time in. Kid glanced round the decent sized dining area and his breath caught as he recognised the woman sat at a table in the corner. Rebecca. She smiled at them and indicated they should come and join her.

Heyes cleared his throat as Kid looked back at him. "You want me to make myself scarce Kid? I saw a couple of other places I could eat on the way here."

Kid started to nod then shook his head. Circumstances were different now and somehow it didn't feel quite right for him to be spending time alone with her. "No,Heyes, I think you'd better stay."

His partner glanced between him and Rebecca, then nodded. "Mebbe that might be for the best, Kid."

ASJ

Kid insisted on paying for their meals, eager to make it clear how different things were now. He was a little put out by the amusement in both Heyes and Rebecca's expressions, but they didn't voice any objections.

Kid and Heyes sat facing Rebecca and throughout the meal and the conversation flowed freely, with Heyes making sure all three of them were engaged. Though Kid knew from the underlying edge to Heyes' tone, that despite his charming manner he wasn't sure about Rebecca. Kid appreciated the effort he was making to try and avoid any tension.

The easy nature of the conversation meant it was definitely easier for him to ignore the memory of his and Rebecca's previous relationship. Although he wasn't quite able to suppress it completely because despite the business nature of their intimacy, he'd been attracted to her.

As the meal came to a close, his physical reactions were only heightened when after a snifter of brandy each, to toast Mrs Barton, with little change of expression she squeezed his thigh under the table. She let her hand linger there for a few minutes, but didn't even look at him, simply continuing to talk to Heyes.

Kid was annoyed at her presumption, but it'd been several weeks since he'd spent any time with a woman and his irritation was quickly subdued by a growing arousal.

Kid knew that Heyes felt the change in atmosphere as he glanced between them, before his eyes settled on Kid, his expression holding a clear warning that Jed knew he should really pay attention to. But as he looked over at Rebecca, he decided he didn't want to.

Heyes knowing him too well, realised that he wasn't going to listen and sighed heavily, pushing his chair back with some force as he stood. "It was a pleasure to see you again Mrs Poindexter." Kid heard very clearly the emphasis on the Mrs before Heyes continued "I think I'm going to change into something less formal, then go win at poker." He tipped his hat at Rebecca, glanced at Kid, with an expression his partner could read very clearly as frustration, then walked out of the hotel.

As the door banged behind him, Rebecca laughed softly. "I'm not sure your partner approves of me." Kid smiled at her, thinking she was probably right, but too polite to agree. Before he could reassure her that it was just as likely that Heyes disapproved of his intentions, as much as anything else, her foot rubbing up and down his lower leg as she squeezed his upper thigh again, derailed his thoughts. He smile grew wicked as she said quietly. "I have a room booked here, you're more than welcome to come up, if you're interested of course."

Kid knew he should be saying no, but found himself nodding instead. "You go on up, I'll follow in twenty minutes or so."

Rebecca smiled and stood gracefully, "See you soon, Jed."

As she went past him, he gently took hold of her wrist to stop her. "This isn't goin' to be about business this time." He needed them both to clear on that before this went any further.

She leant into his ear and whispered. "I'm counting on that Jed. Room 125. See you soon." With another sultry smile she was gone, leaving the scent of expensive perfume lingering in the air, which only added to Kid's burgeoning arousal.

Kid bought a glass of beer, then after a moments thought, also asked for a bottle of brandy. He returned to the table with the beer and brandy. As he drank his beer he briefly thought he should really have listened to Heyes. But after a second drink, he decided that Heyes was worrying over nothing. He knew exactly what he was doing.

Twenty five minutes later he was knocking on Room 125, with the bottle of brandy in his hand. Rebecca let him in with a smile and took the bottle out of his hand, placing it on the dresser before turning back to him. Kid gave into the urge that had been plaguing him for the last hour and kissed her, as he pulled her close. She rubbed up against him and put her arms round him. They kissed for several moments before Kid moved back, but he still kept one arm round her as he pushed her hair gently away from her face. She really was striking and her eyes were so beautiful. Before he could say anything she said in a husky whisper. "Your move, Jed."

When they'd finished, he quickly rolled off to the side on his back with her head on his chest. She murmured something Jed didn't catch as she snuggled into him. It had been very different to their previous encounters and Kid felt some pleasure in that fact. He was almost asleep,when a gentle bite on his left nipple made him start and he opened his eyes to look down at Rebecca."What?"

"Nothing, just wanted to make sure I still had your attention."

There was something in her tone of voice that brought up a memory of Mrs Barton and he chuckled softly, before turning to kiss her. She looked at him questioningly as they paused to take a breath.

The incident was hardly his finest moment and with anyone else he would have found a way of saying nothing, but he knew Rebecca would appreciate it. "One time with Mrs Barton, I was thinkin' about Heyes comin' into town and guess my mind was wanderin'. She weren't too happy, so she nipped and tickled me so hard that I sprung out of bed fast enough that I ended up on my ass. The teeth marks lasted for days and I had a bruise for weeks."

He was rewarded with a throaty chuckle that sent a slight shiver of arousal through him. "Sounds like Rosemary!"

Jed his mind replaying his mortification added ruefully. "That was the last time I ever let my mind drift that's for sure." Kid felt a sudden change in Rebecca's mood and looked down at her noticing a crease in her forehead. Before he could ask what was bothering her, she started to rub against him, but Curry knew she was simply trying to distract him and with a deep breath pushed away from her slightly. "What's wrong?"

"Nothing, Jed,nothing at all." She continued to try and tempt him but gritting his teeth against the arousal, he refused to let her. She finally gave up with a sigh and started to get out of bed, her back stiff . Kid laid a hand on her shoulder, at the touch she relaxed slightly and got back into bed. "I don't want to get you involved."

Jed shook his head at her. "Whether I do or not is my decision to make, Rebecca. Not yours."

She took a deep breath and met his eyes firmly. "Rosemary was looking into something. She wouldn't tell me what it was, but she said if anything happened to her I shouldn't take it at face value."

Curry blinked surprised. His voice held some doubt as he said."You sayin' her death weren't an accident?"

Rebecca glared at him."You think Rosemary and I suddenly turned into hysterical women? You of all people know that's the last thing we are!" Her eyes flashed at him and she poked him hard in his stomach. She sat up quickly and and stood out of bed, bending to start picking up her clothes, her tight posture broadcasting her annoyance clearly.

Curry watching her suddenly felt a little guilty. Rebecca and Mrs Barton were hardly women prone to fancy and if they suspected something, then they were likely right to. After a few moments he said in what he hoped was both an apologetic and soothing tone. "I'm sorry. Tell me what you know."

She paused in her jerky, angry, picking up of clothing and turned back to him. "You believe me?"

Kid nodded and smiled at her. "I do, doubt you and Mrs Barton were suddenly gonna start jumpin' at nothin'. Now C'mon and fill me in." He patted the bed and after a few moments she joined him, with a businesslike expression on her face. One that he recognised from their first encounter. He shuffled up the bed and pulled the sheet over them both.

"I'm not sure exactly what she was doing. All I do know it that she was so angry when you got beaten up. Soon after you left, when we met up for afternoon tea, she was telling me she had started investigating something. And just two weeks before she died, she was sure someone was following her. I begged her to stop whatever she was doing, but Rosemary was stubborn. That's when she told me that if anything happened to her I shouldn't believe what we were told."

Kid even with his limited experience of Mrs Barton wasn't surprised at what Rebecca was saying. Whether Heyes agreed with him or not, Kid was going to investigate the suspicions, he thought he owed that much to Mrs Barton. But he'd prefer Heyes' help, so he'd talk to him about it when he got back to their hotel. "She know who was followin' her?"

"She thought they were police officers. She wasn't sure if Thomas knew about it or not. She never said if she mentioned anything to him."

Kid knew that Calhoun was crooked, but there was a big difference between a protection racket and murder- especially a relative. He came to a decision and replied firmly. "I'm gonna speak to Heyes and we're goin' to come up with a plan. I got a couple of scores to settle with the police anyways."

Rebecca opened her mouth to argue, but whatever expression was on his face, stopped her and instead she simply kissed and caressed him, which quickly derailed any further discussion.

ASJ

It was already nearly dark when he got back to his and Heyes' room. He let himself in and was surprised to find his partner lying on the bed farthest from the door reading. As Kid entered he looked up with a disapproving expression on his face which matched his tone.

"I was beginning to wonder if you were gonna come back tonight."

Kid was immediately on the defensive and replied a "It ain't that late Heyes, figured you'd still be out yourself. And since when did you get all moral? What we're doin' now ain't illegal."

Heyes sighed and his face relaxed. "It ain't a moral issue, Kid, more a safety one. I'm not sure I trust her." He held up his hand as Kid irritated, started to retort angrily and added. "Now don't get all proddy on me, just saying them born rich, don't see things the same way as we normal folk."

That made Kid laugh. "Ain't sure many would call us normal, Heyes. But I guess you gotta point. But I know what I'm doin'." Heyes didn't exactly look convinced, but said nothing else as Kid sat on his bed to remove his boots, although Jed could feel him watching him. He took a bit of a breath and wondered how to say what he wanted to say, without aggravating his partner, but Heyes beat him to it.

"You got something to say I'm not gonna like haven't you? Well go ahead, Kid, spit it out."

"Rebecca ain't sure Mrs Barton's death was an accident, thinks the police might be involved."

Despite still looking away from his partner, Kid could have drawn the expression he knew would be on Heyes' face. His tone was exasperated. "And you promised to help. You and your needy pretty women are gonna be the end of us one of these days. Amnesty or not."

Kid chose to ignore the complaint and focussed on the bit he could agree with. "So you admit she's pretty."

"I ain't blind, Kid. I just ain't as prone to letting a pretty face stop me from thinking."

"But you are gonna help, right Heyes?" Kid risked a glance back at his partner, who was nodding in irritated agreement. He was pleased that he wasn't going to have to do this alone. Things always went better when they worked as a team.

"Dunno what kinda mess you'll get yourself into if I don't. And here I was thinking we'd stop finding trouble now we ain't wanted."

Kid poked him on the arm exasperated. "We owe her, Heyes and you know it as well as I do."

Heyes nodded again in reluctant agreement as he said, "Well we need to know how involved the police are. So Kid, you gotta get yourself arrested."

Jed wasn't impressed with that idea."Why can't you be the one who gets arrested? They ain't gonna be gentle when they take me in. There's gotta be a better way."

Heyes rolled his eyes, "Kid, you got us involved, seems only fair, besides you and them got history, they're gonna enjoy arresting you for anything small. They don't know me at all, so wouldn't bother taking me in, less I do something real bad and we ain't going there. You know we gotta find out whose involved. Ain't like they're gonna tell us anything if we just roll up and ask them, but I'm betting they won't be too careful round someone they arrested for being drunk and stupid. Calhoun will probably want a word or two with you as well. You being arrested will give him an excuse."

An awful thought hit Kid then. "Could be that walk-off Captain had his aunt murdered. If he did, he sure ain't gonna be fussed 'bout killin' me if I ask him the wrong questions."

Heyes' eyes widened at that and he obviously thought about it for a few moments before saying." Having his aunt killed? That's pretty cold. I think it more likely he'll want to know who did do it."

Kid knew he was going to get bruised one way or another, he'd have to resist being arrested or they police would be suspicious. Also he wasn't exactly sure what to expect when he was taken in, but he doubted it'd be anything good. Curry shrugged as he said. "Well I ain't sure Heyes, like you keep sayin', the rich ain't like the rest of us. I really ain't keen on this plan."

Heyes looked at him innocently. "Then maybe you should just tell Rebecca we can't help her."

"Dammit, Heyes!" Frustration led him to poke his partner in the chest with some force, which elicited a slight wince, but his partner's innocent expression didn't change.

"I'm just saying, Kid."

Kid sighed thinking he didn't really have much of a choice if he wanted to he get some justice for Mrs Barton and gave in. "All right, Heyes, you win. I'll get myself arrested. But you better be around to get me out!"

"Well, Kid, they may not be so rough this time." Kid glared at him, sensing some criticism about his choices last time he was in Denver, but relaxed as he added. " No need to look at me like that. All I'm meaning is that they ain't dealing with a no name drifter. Kid Curry still has quite the reputation, even in Denver. Besides they'll know I'm in town. That might make them pull their punches too. They might think we won't let too severe a beating go without some response."

Kid really didn't think the police would be that bothered about what they might do, the law were pretty well-protected after all and he said doubtfully. "I ain't sure about that, Heyes."

The look in Heyes' eyes suggested he wasn't either, but it was clear that he didn't have a better plan. Jed couldn't see any alternative either, except doing nothing and that wasn't an option he was willing to consider.

ASJ

"I'm not sure this is the best plan, Jed.

Rebecca was looking at him in some concern as they ate in one of the small restaurants near Kid's hotel. "Neither are we, but it's the best we got."

Rebecca was looking at him with an almost fond expression which made him smile at her. She quickly squeezed his hand and as she let go she said musingly. "You're different. More confident somehow." She smiled. "I like it."

Curry's smile broadened. "Well you ain't payin' me this time. Ain't the same pressure."

She slapped his hand gently at that and laughed. "Jed!" Her voice was warm and amused and he felt his stomach flip as his heart sped up. He knew there was no future in this for either of them, but sometimes it was hard to keep hold of that thought. She wasn't even the type he was usually attracted to and he supposed some of his feelings might be tied up in gratitude. But that wasn't all it was. The last time he remembered feeling anything close to this, was with Michelle.

Even nearly five years on, he sometimes wondered at what might have happened if he'd been free to go with her and still regretted that he would never know. He pushed the thought away as being unhelpful, as he had more than once in the past and which he knew he'd probably have to do again. His mind looking for something else to focus about, drifted to a question he'd been wanting an answer to since he and Rebecca had rekindled their intimacy. He took a deep breath and briefly wondered whether he should be asking, but he really wanted to know. He looked up into Rebecca's curious gaze and decided the direct approach was best. It seemed that was how she dealt with most things.

"Look, you don't have to tell me iffen you don't want...But I was wondering about your husband. Don't seem like he's around and you aren't so fussed about bein' discreet."

She laughed and said drily. "Well after you and your partner left, by mutual agreement he went to Cheyenne to do whatever he wants, with whomever he wishes and I stayed here to do the same. He won't divorce me as my Father made sure he wouldn't get any of the Morton money if he did. Naturally I have no desire to live through the scandal that me divorcing him would bring. As our children went East as soon as they could, this agreement between their Father and I ensures they won't suffer the social embarrassment of public parental discord. Of course, with it being an open secret to those in my sphere. I do get the odd disapproving look at some parties I attend and there are some who no longer invite me." She paused and laughed, her gaze untroubled as she added. "But frankly it is none of their business and this arrangement suits both William and I perfectly."

Kid was struck again at how pragmatic and unemotional she sometimes seemed about things that most people might find painful. Jed wasn't sure how to respond as I'm sorry hardly seemed appropriate for more than one reason.

She leaned over to him and whispered into his ear, "I have a room booked at The Brown Palace. I thought we could spend the afternoon in style." She blew gently in his ear and her warm breath sent a tingle down his spine. He wanted to suggest that they go elsewhere so he could pay, but there was something in her expression that stopped him arguing. So he just nodded instead. She smiled at him and he stood quickly to help her on with her coat.

ASJ

Kid was once again taken a little aback by the grandeur of the place as they walked into entrance area. Though the lobby was nothing compared to the room she'd booked.

Jed gave a low whistle as they entered, it was an impressive suite, even for such a high class hotel. He wondered just how much she'd paid for it. He thought perhaps he should insist of putting what he could towards the cost, but before he could say anything, she came up behind him and put her arms round him as she nuzzled his neck.

He turned to her as she removed his jacket and slipped her hands under his shirt to caress his back. He attempted to take some control, by trying to caress her breasts, but she glared hard at him and placed her hands over his stopping him. He gave in, deciding to hold off on insisting until she was more receptive.

In the comfortable aftermath they lay together sleepily until reality eventually intruded into their peace. Rebecca stirred and murmured softly in his ear. "I'm sorry, Jed. But I have to go. I'm expected at a party that I'd rather not miss tonight. But please stay as long as you need."

She kissed him after she'd finished dressing, her eyes worried. "Please be careful Jed." With a final glance, she was gone leaving an almost deafening silence in her wake.

About twenty minutes later, Kid was ready to leave himself. At the door he took a final glance round him. The smart room somehow suddenly made him feel hollow inside. The elegance of it taunting him, reminding him of just what different worlds he and Rebecca lived in. A strange sense of melancholy swept over him as he shut the door and walked quickly down the stairs. He left the key at reception and then exited out into the bustling street.

ASJ

Kid stopped off at a bath house on the way back to his and Heyes' hotel. Heyes was unlikely to say anything, but there would be an amused and knowing edge to his manner that would definitely get on Jed's nerves. It would be much easier to avoid being both irritated and slightly embarrassed if he didn't smell of sex.

As he relaxed in the bath, Kid determinedly tried not think, without much success. The memory of his and Rebecca's intimacy seemed embedded in his brain. And when he tried to ignore the flashes, his mind started to dwell on his upcoming encounter with the police. He soaked until the water became uncomfortably cold and dressed quickly. He stopped for a drink at one of the saloons, before continuing to the hotel.

As he entered their room, Heyes looked up from his reading with an irritated expression on his face. "I've been wondering where you'd got to! Those well-heeled folk ain't got a clue about poker, so it's going to be real easy money tonight and I'm eager to get started."

Kid rolled his eyes a little at the familiar complaint as he said. "Well I had some stuff to do that couldn't wait. Besides it ain't exactly late."

"Couldn't wait?

He opened his mouth to retort, but he was suddenly struck by how in the midst of so much turmoil, the solid dependability of his partnership with Heyes really helped ease his mind. Caught by a sudden burst of grateful relief, he found himself smiling as he replied "First we gotta eat, then I'm goin' to enjoy watchin' you fleece them arrogant business folk."

Heyes glanced at him, obviously surprised at the rapid change of tone, but whatever he saw on his face must have reassured him as he grinned. "Yeah, we better not forget to feed you, or your growling stomach might just put me off my game."

"Well, Heyes, I sure wish you'd think about that more often."

Heyes glared at him and threw up his hands. "Jeez, Kid, a partner forgets breakfast once and he ain't never allowed to forget it. Don't seem fair."

Kid threw him a look that he hoped clearly expressed his disbelief in that statement.

"Once?"

"Okay maybe twice. Ain't more than that."

"You're startin' to get forgetful in your old age, Heyes. I can think of at least six times in the last four years."

"Six? You're exaggerating, three at most. And what do you mean old age?"

As they walked out into the street, Kid let their bickering soothe away the strange lingering melancholy and ease his worries for tonight at least.

ASJ

"I want to get it over with tonight, Heyes. It ain't gonna be any better if I hang on." Kid sat opposite Heyes in the restaurant not far from The Golden Nugget and as they ate, he had come to the conclusion that if he got the arrest over with, they could move on to the next stage.

"Okay, Kid. I got an idea. We can fake an argument when you lose the game and I can storm out."

"You got a hankerin' to go on the stage?" Kid couldn't resist teasing him, but actually saw some merit to the idea and grinned at the unimpressed expression on his partner's face.

ASJ

"You're cheatin. And I lost a lot of money 'cos of you. I'm gonna take some of it back." Kid lunged in a seemingly drunken manner at a heavy set man who'd been one of the bigger winners at his table. The man side-stepped him with a grin and a shrug. "You shoulda quit half an hour ago, son."

Heyes who'd come up behind him exclaimed loudly. "He's right Kid, you always play lousy poker when you're drunk. Now we only got what I won. We've talked about this before! It ain't like you play that well when you're sober!"

Despite it all being part of the plan, that stung a little and it was easy for Jed to turn to his friend with a snarl. "Oh shut up, Heyes. Didn't hear me complainin' when you lost that twenty thousand dollars. "

He instantly regretted his words, he hadn't intended to say them and really had no idea where they'd come from. The shocked expression that crossed his partner's face made him feel even worse. Kid didn't blame Heyes for Big Mac being a cheating old miser, and they rarely, if ever discussed what had happened. He was eager to reassure his partner about his lack of resentment over the issue. So after checking that they were in shadow and unobserved said softly. "You know it ain't never mattered Heyes. I ain't sure why that even came out."

Heyes' face relaxed and he quickly patted Kid's arm smiling in some relief, before he raised his voice to ensure people paid attention. "We agreed not to bring that up and now after all this time, you gotta mention it. Well, Kid, if you're gonna be like that, don't see why I should help you. If you're so damned eager to get beaten up, don't let me stop you." With that he stormed out of the saloon, but not without a whispered "Good luck."

Jed whirled to meet the man at the bar and swung at him unsteadily. The fight soon escalated as he'd expected and the police were called. He resisted, trying to make it seem as realistic as possible, which earnt him a few bruises and a cut lip, before surrendering. He was thrown handcuffed into the police carriage as a police officer leant over him. "Guess you oughta have stayed flat on your back, because it sure seems neither poker or fightin' are exactly your strengths. Guess your rep is a bit exaggerated!"

He was thrown in with the rest of the 'drunks' minus his boots and belt. The stench of stale alcohol, vomit and sweat caught at the back of his throat and made his eyes water. Luckily most of his fellow prisoners were asleep and he was left alone.

Keeping up his pretence of being drunk, he sat down against the wall and closed his eyes. He thought it was probably about two hours later, when he was hauled out of the overcrowded cell, by Baskin one of the men who was involved in the protection racket and who'd brought him in this time too. "Captain wants to see you. Seems he's eager for another chat, now he knows who you really are."

His arms were roughly handcuffed behind his back. While this was exactly what they'd expected, it didn't stop his stomach twisting a little at the thought of what might come next. He let none of his concern show on his face as he said dryly. "Ain't I the lucky one?"

That earnt him a shove in the back with a billy-club. "See you ain't learnt to keep that smart mouth of yours shut."

Jed didn't dignify that with an answer and the man roughly pushed him out of the holding area.

He was quickly marched up the corridors that he recognised from his previous visit. He was again handcuffed to the chair, but there was a different atmosphere this time. As soon as they were left alone, Calhoun unlocked his handcuffs and using the water pitcher on his desk dampened a handkerchief and handed it to him, indicating his still bleeding lip.

Kid watched him warily as he gently dabbed at his mouth, the memory of their last encounter still clear. "This ain't quite what I was expecting."

Calhoun smiled, and just briefly, Kid saw the resemblance to his aunt clearly. "No I would think not Mr Curry." His smile faded and he pulled up a chair to sit opposite Jed. "Now I know my Aunt Rosemary was instrumental in ensuring you received your amnesty and I'm fairly certain I know why."

Kid winced internally at that and said carefully. "If you believe that and I ain't admittin' nothin', what you plannin' on doing?"

Despite his attempt at calm some of his concern must have shown as Calhoun laughed and waved his hand dismissively in the air. "I was never my aunt's favorite nephew, but I was really rather fond of her, despite her somewhat unconventional outlook on life." His face flickered with some pain, leaving Kid certain that he'd played no part in Mrs Barton's death. "I think she was killed for something she was looking into. The report on the accident is laughable. The carriage driver nor any of the witnesses were even spoken to. I am hoping that you and your partner are willing to help me get to the truth in repayment for what my aunt she did for you. I have heard that you are not bad men despite your criminal pasts."

Kid and Heyes had hoped for something like this, but he was still a little suspicious of the man's motives. "What you want us to investigate Mrs Barton's death? Surely it'd be easier for you." He paused and realised the problem. "Of course, you won't want to be seen to be involved unless you got real proof."

Some of his disgust at the man must have leaked out on his face as Calhoun grimaced and stood, walking away to lean against his desk. "I know you don't think much of me Mr Curry, but I will pay you well if you find out the truth. I am assuming you're investigating anyway. You certainly aren't drunk so I think you got yourself arrested for a reason."

Kid gave a single nod, not thinking it worth denying. "If we agree to work for you, instead of investigatin' on our own, how exactly would that help us?"

"Well it'd give you the name of the carriage driver for one." He turned to his desk and picked up a sheet of paper he found there and gave it to Jed, who read it quickly, before shoving it deep into his pants pocket.

Jed thought it was a good starting point and was definitely a sign of good faith. He knew Heyes would certainly appreciate both the opportunity of being paid and the irony of who was paying. "All right you've got a deal."

"Good, that's good."

There was a knock on the door and Calhoun with a slightly apologetic look re-secured Kid's wrists to the chair and called. "Enter."

"You finished with him, Sir?" The man wasn't in uniform. He looked vaguely familiar and Kid had an awful feeling he was one of the men he'd subdued all those months ago.

"Indeed, take him back down and ensure he's fit to see the judge tomorrow." There was an unmistakeable hint of warning in his voice, leading Curry to hope that he'd escape the beating he'd feared.

He was pulled up from the chair and chivvied out. He was taken down the corridors, but instead of walking in the direction he expected, they instead headed down into the lower reaches of the police station. He knew then he'd been right about the man's identity and well aware of the implications of that, struggled to get loose. But with his hands handcuffed and in only socks, he could gain little traction and his resistance simply left him with a couple more bruises.

"Your Captain ain't gonna be too happy. You heard what he said."

The man pushed him against the wall. "We had you all locked up nice and tight, when we coulda still got a share of ten thousand dollars. We ain't happy that we missed out on that. Not to mention a couple of us owe you for that last little trick you pulled. The Captain only said you had to be fit to see the judge, so we won't kill you and we won't break nothing, but other than that..."

The Kid despite the slight shiver down his spine, refused to look away. The man stared back at him, then dragged him down an un-carpeted, dingy, musty smelling corridor. As they came to the end of it, he was pushed into a cramped, cold, damp room. Pipes lined the walls and a loud humming and buzzing filled the small space, making the floor under his feet vibrate.

Kid now in no doubt of what was planned, attempted again to free himself, struggling hard against the restraining hands, but the man kicked his feet out from under him and he fell heavily onto the hard floor before being yanked back up again. His shoulders and wrists protested loudly at the treatment, but he refused to show any discomfort.

The men briefly looked reluctantly impressed, before his face hardened. "You sure are stubborn, son. But there ain't no one gonna hear us down here, so you might as well scream as much as you like." He yanked Kid's hair so hard his neck twinged. Jed would have spat in his face, but his mouth was suddenly dry and with his head pulled back he would have missed anyway. So he satisfied himself with flashing his best gunslinger gaze, despite the cold trickle of anxiety down his back. He became aware that they were no longer alone. Four others had entered, he couldn't see them clearly in the gloom of the room but he could clearly hear the ominous slap of a billy-club. Two of the men were also carrying what looked like cut down pipes. Kid knew this was going to be even worse than he'd feared.

He'd have little chance against them, but he refused to go down easily. He yanked out of the grip of the man holding him and kicked out, catching the man's shin making him yelp. Kid used his shoulder to hit the man's nose, which made a satisfying crack. But a tap to his head from one of the newcomers who moved in to help restrain him, stopped his resistance in its tracks.

The second man holding him, nodded at the others and said grimly. "Blindfold him and tie his legs, but avoid hitting his face." He hissed into Kid's ear, "You even think of fighting back again,we will just have to tell the Captain you resisted a mite too hard."

The implication was very clear, so instead of fighting back,he simply steeled himself for what was to come. A blindfold was secured round his eyes, plunging him into darkness while someone bent to tie his feet.

He fell heavily to the floor when the brutality finally ended and the men holding him let go. In an attempt to relieve some of the pain that had settled in every part of his body, he tried to bring his knees up to his chest and curl up, but with the way he'd been tied it was impossible So instead he had no choice but to lay unmoving on the damp floor, fighting against the agony and barely keeping unconsciousness at bay.

He was dragged out of his fruitless attempts to control the pain by pressure on his feet and a harsh voice. "Move your damn feet."

He tried to follow the instruction, unwilling to risk any more punches, but he couldn't get anything to co-operate. As he was kicked twice in his already sore stomach, he couldn't muffle the groan that escaped him. He knew he had no way to avoid another kick and forced his body to relax in order to at least reduce the impact of it on his body.

"Dawson, stop it! He ain't doing it deliberate. He's had enough."

"You getting soft in your old age Carter?"

"You want to test how soft I am?"

He felt someone untie his ankles and almost gently push on his boots. He was pulled to his feet and instinctively grabbed onto the nearest arm to stop from falling, before realising it might mean more violence. He stiffened as he felt hands touch his head, but to his surprise his blindfold was removed and no one hit him again. His vision was too blurry to see anything but vague shapes, but it was better than just darkness.

"Carter, what do you think ya doin'?"

"Look Donovan, he ain't in no fit state to be a threat. I ain't got nothing against a beating, but there ain't no need to take it too far."

Kid thought this felt pretty much too far from his side of things, but didn't attempt to disagree. Everything seemed to be spinning round him and his legs felt like they were about to give way.

A man he assumed was Carter uncuffed him and as he moved his arms, he had to fight the urge to be sick at the pain from his protesting shoulders. He swallowed hard and successfully fought the nausea, not wanting to risk the consequences of throwing up. He wasn't sure if it was even over yet, but all he could do was wait unsteadily for what would come next. "I guess you got a point. Jacobs, you and Simmons go get him safely locked up. Not the drunk tank, somewhere he ain't gonna be bothered, or I doubt he'll be fit to be hauled over to the court in the morning."

Kid had no strength left to resist and allowed himself to be dragged out of the room without protest. He hung limply between the two men who were pulling him. He'd never been so relieved to see a cell in his life as he was half thrown onto the single bunk. As he heard the door lock behind him, he finally felt able to surrender to the darkness tugging at him and he slipped gratefully into unconsciousness.

He came round some time later with a thumping in his head, very confused, unable to remember exactly where he was. But when the pain in his body kicked in, he remembered only too well. His last thought before slipping into an exhausted but restless sleep, was that Heyes better not take too long to pay his fine.

He slept, until he was kicked awake and yanked from the bunk to his feet. With his head still thumping and his whole body on fire, he struggled to just stay upright, far too weak to react to the rough treatment. He stood swaying dizzily, fighting not to pass out as the uniformed officer, who he didn't recognise laughed. "Your partner just made it worth our while to let you go."

Kid squinted at the man, the rushing in his ears and the tightness in his chest was making him feel like he was under water. With that added to the pain, he struggled to process what had been said. His lack of understanding must have been obvious when he made no attempt to respond. Kid couldn't avoid a flinch as the man's hand came towards him and hated himself for the relief that swept through him when the man merely patted his cheek. "You hear me, boy? You're free to go. Captain won't much care as long as the fine is paid. Saves us some paperwork." He spoke slowly as if talking to an imbecile. Kid finally understood that he was being let go and tried to move, but his feet felt like they were glued to the floor and he couldn't get them going.

The man sighed, spun him round and shoved him firmly towards the door, before coming to stand next to him. At the sudden sharp pain, Kid's stomach lurched in protest. He couldn't stop himself from throwing up on the man's shoes, which earnt him a hard slap across the face, but despite the sting of his cheek, he was oddly satisfied at the sight of the murky liquid splashing the man's shoes and trouser cuffs. The officer grabbed his shoulder eliciting a moan from Kid, which made the man smile unpleasantly as he said. "Be thankful your partner's waiting, 'cos if he weren't, I'd make you regret that!"

Kid blinked painfully in the bright light of the police station's duty desk as everything throbbed. He easily recognised the figure of Heyes leaning against the counter despite his blurry vision. His partner almost ran over to him and gently slipped his arm round his waist, helping him carefully out of the doors, unusually without saying a word. Despite Heyes' supporting arm he stumbled, but unwilling to give the men watching the satisfaction of seeing him fall, he just managed to stay on his feet.

Once out on the street, Heyes propped him carefully against a wall "You ain't gonna make it more than a few more steps, if we try and walk, so you just stay there and try not to fall on your face. I'm going to hail one of them fancy hansoms. Sure glad we had some good jobs, before we came here, as this is costing us a fortune." There was no heat in his voice and Kid didn't take his grumbling as anything other than Heyes trying to avoid showing too much concern.

He was finding it hard to focus on anything for more than a few moments, but one thing was clear to him, his best hope for any sort of retribution, was that the men who'd done this were involved in Mrs Barton's death. If they were that would give him the satisfaction of seeing them jailed or possibly hanged.

ASJ

Heyes and Kid almost fell into their room after Heyes finally got the door unlocked. He attempted to settle his partner onto his bed but Kid resisted. "I gotta get out of these clothes. I stink."

"Kid, C'mon we can do that later, you gotta lie down before you fall down."

"I gotta get out of these clothes." Jed repeated stubbornly as he attempted to push him away. There was little force in his effort, but Heyes unwilling to cause more damage to him, still stepped back. Curry started tugging uselessly at his shirt buttons and slapped Heyes' hands away as he tried to help. "I can do it, just leave me alone."

Kid's eyes weren't tracking properly and Heyes realised that he must have suffered at least one blow to the head, which explained his behaviour at least. He hoped the fact that he wasn't unconscious, meant his brain hadn't been rattled too badly. He really needed his partner to lie down, so he could have a proper look at him. Heyes sighed as Kid continued to clumsily try and undress himself, refusing any help at all, until at last he flopped down to sit on the bed and glared. "I thought you were gonna help me!" Heyes suppressed another sigh and forced himself not to snap, aware that Kid had little control at the moment.

Resisting the urge to simply rip the buttons off, he finally managed to finish unbuttoning Kid's shirt, despite his partner's unhelpful assistance. He had started to slip his shirt off and was trying to avoid pulling him too much, though Kid seemed unaware of the pain and continued to hinder Heyes by refusing to stay still, when there was a knock on the door. "Go away!" Heyes and Kid shouted in unison, but the door swung open and Rebecca walked in. Heyes in his haste to get Kid to safely hadn't locked the door.

"Rebecca, you can help me undress! Be a lot more fun than Heyes doin' it." Kid's voice was slurred as if drunk. Heyes keeping one hand on his partner's chest made a vague gesture towards his head.

She sighed in resignation. "I see I am too late to talk you out of this foolhardy plan."

She came over to the bed and Heyes got up to let her take his place. Kid kept trying to touch her, but despite this, she made short work of stripping Kid to his Henley, which was sweat stained and stuck to him. Rebecca hesitated then slipped Jed's legs onto the bed. He grinned up at her vaguely and slurred. "You gonna join me?" That was the last thing he said as he was soon out cold.

Heyes was grateful for the help and let out a relieved breath as Kid finally slept. At the livid bruises on Kid's skin, Heyes' guilt spiked. Rebecca eyes were overly bright when she turned to look at him. Heyes realised with some surprise that she really did care for Jed and

tentatively smiled at her, hoping she'd take his olive branch. She stared at him for a moment, her expression hard to read, before she moved away from the bed and turned away.

Heyes watched her back briefly, before pulling the quilt off his own bed and laying it gently over his partner. He listened to his painful shallow breathing for a few moments, relieved he couldn't hear any gurgling or whistling. He was sure his partner had some cracked ribs, but probably not broken ones and at least there was no damage to his lungs. He'd almost forgotten Rebecca was in the room and started when she spoke. "Shouldn't you get a Doctor to look at him?"

Heyes was fairly confident all his partner needed was rest, they'd both been injured enough to know what needed a doc and what didn't. Which was a depressing thought in many ways. He shook his head. "As long as his head injury ain't too bad, I don't think so. I can strap his ribs if need be."

Rebecca's face was still tight with anger and tension as she said grimly. "Are you usually so cavalier over your partner's safety?"

Her condescending and judgemental tone irritated him and he replied sharply. "Me? He's only involved in this because of you!" He knew he wasn't really being fair. Kid had involved them both, but still without her involvement he wouldn't have felt the need.

The comment obviously hit a nerve as she almost flinched before nodding in agreement. "I suppose we both carry some blame."

They lapsed into silence for a few minutes as Heyes tried to keep hold of his new understanding. "I think it might be good if you stay a bit. If Kid wakes up I might need some help to settle him again. I got some whiskey, if you want a drink."

Rebecca nodded a little wearily and sat down in a chair by the window. Heyes rummaged around in his carpet bag. He found the bottle of whiskey and more surprisingly there were even a couple of glasses at the bottom. He set them on the sideboard and poured a decent measure of liquor into both, passed one to Rebecca then sat down on his bed.

They drank in silence as they both watched Kid toss restlessly and moan quietly even as he slept. Heyes knew he hadn't taken his partner's concerns seriously enough. He had no excuse, because it was his job as planner, to always anticipate the worst that could happen and in this case he hadn't. He still wasn't exactly sure what more he could have done, except maybe get there earlier to bail Kid out, but he'd not been worried enough to do that, not anticipating the severity of the beating. Rebecca's cool voice brought his attention back to her. "I have heard a lot of things about you, Mr Heyes and incompetence is not something I would have expected."

Heyes glared, feeling much of his new found patience with her sliding away. "Incompetence? Now, just hang on, that ain't fair!"

"Well what would you call it?" She didn't flinch as he glared at her and held his gaze calmly.

Heyes put his glass down with some force extremely irritated at her presumption. "We did the best we could, with what we had. We both agreed this was the only way."

"Well I had presumed that you would be capable of better planning given your reputation. Or perhaps that gang you led was particularly credulous. Jed doesn't seem stupid, but he is loyal and that probably allows you a lot of leeway to make mistakes without losing his trust." Rebecca's gaze was steady, unimpressed and unintimidated.

Despite his anger, he couldn't help but find her quite impressive, but he was damned if he'd let her know that. "You ain't giving me enough credit for how much skill it took to plan them robberies. We were exceptionally successful outlaws and Kid did real well out of it." He was suddenly reminded of Kid rambling at Sister Julia and found himself finally understanding where the urge had come from.

Kid's voice startled them both, soft as it was. "Will you two stop arguin'. I didn't go in blind, I knew the risks. It ain't no-ones fault 'cept them that did this. "

He dug round in his pocket and pressed a piece of paper into Heyes' hand. "Calhoun ain't involved in his aunt's death. He gave me that. Carriage driver's name. Address too. Said he's willin' to pay. Them idiots who.." Each word seemed to be cause him discomfort and he stopped to take a careful breath and winced, closing his eyes.

Heyes was about to tell him that this could wait as he and Rebecca exchanged a concerned glance, animosity forgotten. But after taking three shallow and obviously uncomfortable breaths, Kid continued. "Donovan, Dawson, Jacobs, Simmons. Man named Carter too, but think he'd draw the line at murder."

Heyes looked at him in some surprise and he saw Rebecca shake her head in a disbelief. "They told you their names?"

Kid shook his head then obviously wished he hadn't, but still managed the smallest of smiles as he said. "Dumb asses weren't too careful usin' them. Figured it was worth takin' note of 'em, cos if they're that willin' to ignore their Captain to settle a score, they might not stop at a protection racket, if the money were good enough." He trailed off, too breathless to continue and by the look of confusion on his face, he'd obviously lost his train of thought.

He closed his eyes as Heyes softly patted him."You did real good, Jed, now get some rest while I figure out our next move."

He glanced away from Kid and into the now slightly warmer gaze of their visitor. "I should leave you to it. Thank you for the drink." She stood gracefully and walked slowly over to Kid who was asleep again. She brushed a stray curl from his forehead and then straightened, turning to meet Heyes' gaze and studied him with an intense look on her face, before saying."You look like you want to say something to me, Mr Heyes."

Heyes wished she'd stop calling him Mr, there was something in her tone when she did, that made it clear she didn't think much of him. But it was pretty obvious to him now, that she was definitely quite fond of his partner. He hoped telling her he realised that, would make her more receptive to his suggestion that her presence would prove too much of a distraction. "I was just thinking that I misjudged your motives and underestimated your feelings."

Heyes didn't clarify by adding he'd assumed she was just a bored, rich woman looking for a diversion, but her eyes told him she knew exactly what he'd thought. She laughed softly as he stopped talking in an attempt to think of a polite way to raise his concern, not wanting to cause another argument that might wake Kid.

"Why thank-you, Mr Heyes, that's quite an endorsement coming from you." She paused and then added. "I know you're trying to think of a way to warn me to stay away, which seems a sensible suggestion. We both know we won't see eye to eye on very much and that disagreement will only cause a friction that will be most unhelpful. So I will indeed keep my distance."She paused then gave him a piercing look. "I do however hope that whatever your next plan is, it will prove less painful for Jed than the last one you came up with."

Heyes nodded vehemently in agreement. "Now that Ma'am you can count on. I rarely if ever make the same mistake twice."

She managed a tight lipped smile as she said. "Good, that's good. I hope you mean it, Mr Heyes." With a final look at Curry she picked up her purse and went out of the door quickly and quietly.

Heyes stared at the door for a few minutes after she'd left, very conscious of some warning in her parting comment. He knew if Kid was hurt again, she'd find some way of making him regret it. He still couldn't quite get his head round her and his partner. She was nothing like his partner's usual choice. Gratitude, plus the unusual nature of how their relationship had started, might have had some bearing on their connection, but somehow it felt a little deeper than that.

Heyes believed Kid's heart was going to get bruised by the woman, but now at least he had a better understanding of the fascination she held for him. Shrugging off his circular thoughts, he picked up his book and flipped to the correct page and began reading.

ASJ

It was well into the evening of the next day, when Kid finally woke up as Heyes played solitaire. Heyes looked over at him and saw with relief that his eyes were tracking and the dazed confusion in his face had faded. "How you feeling?"

Kid laughed then clutched his stomach. "Like I got tossed off a cliff, then trampled on by a dozen horses. Otherwise pretty good."

Heyes couldn't help but chuckle at the colorful image, before sobering quickly. "You remember much about the last time you were awake?"

Kid frowned then shook his head. "I thought maybe Rebecca was here at some point. But maybe I dreamt it."

"No, she was here and she isn't my biggest fan. I think she might've flattened me at one point."

Kid chuckled softly. "Someone not convinced by that silver-tongue of yours? I'd say you're losin' your touch, 'cept Rebecca's smarter than both of us put together."

Heyes briefly felt insulted, then nodded in reluctant agreement, but didn't reply directly."In a few days when you're feeling up to it. I think we oughta go pay that carriage driver, Jacob Masters a visit and see what he knows." He stopped briefly before adding."He might take a little bit of persuading to tell us of course, but we can handle it."

Kid nodded with some enthusiasm. "Maybe tomorrow?" But as he finished speaking Heyes saw a flash of pain cross his face. "Or perhaps the day after."

Heyes knew then just how much he must be hurting to make that concession and said quietly. "Ain't no hurry, Kid."

ASJ

Kid swung his feet out of bed as Heyes watched him in some concern. He still wasn't sure his partner was ready to be getting up, but Curry glanced across at him, his determination clear. "I'm fine, Heyes! Stop fussin'. I'm tired of sleepin' and just bein' in bed."

Heyes studied him, noting his too pale face and the slightly pinched expression that showed he was definitely still in some pain. "You sure, Kid? Only bin four days."

Kid met his worried gaze and shrugged a little. "Well all right, I gotta admit I ain't ready for anythin' too active, but I can manage rousting that carriage driver. But first I gotta have a bath." He stood and swayed, alarming Heyes, who rushed to steady him. Kid sat back down on the bed heavily. "Just gonna have to take things a bit slow, I guess." With that he stood more carefully and started to root round in his bag, looking for clean clothes.

Heyes watched his friend's back as he shook his head at his stubbornness. "Lets get that bath sorted, but think doing anything else should wait till later."

Kid turned to look at him, his expression resigned, "But tomorrow we gonna get started right? I sure am eager to find out if them yahoos are involved!"

Heyes still wasn't convinced it'd be a good idea for at least a couple of days, thinking Kid needed some more time and only said non-committally. "If you're up to it." Before Kid could reply he added quickly. "Now I'm gonna see about that bath." He quickly exited the room, hoping that when he returned, Kid would be distracted enough that they could avoid any further discussion.

As Kid relaxed in the bath, with his eyes closed, Heyes couldn't take his eyes off the bruises on his chest and shoulders. They had darkened into a spectacular mix of colors and there

were so many of them, all different shapes and sizes. He'd been beaten up on more than on occasion himself and so was very aware of just how much they must ache.

He became aware of Kid watching him through half-open eyes. "They hurt less than they did, Heyes. And it ain't the first time one of your plans has ended up with me or even you covered in bruises, probably won't be the last neither!"

There was no heat to his tone, but the words still stung and Heyes glared. "It ain't usually deliberate Kid!"

"Not sayin' it is Heyes, just pointin' out that it ain't like you to worry so much over a few bruises."

Kid's matter of fact tone just made Heyes feel worse. Maybe Rebecca had been right when she accused him of not always taking enough care, but he only said roughly. "I ain't worryin'."

Curry opened his eyes wide then and grinned. "Then we are gonna go pay a visit to that carriage driver tomorrow night."

Heyes sighed and looked at Kid with narrowed eyes, a bit annoyed at being so easily outmanoeuvred. "You're getting real sneaky!"

Kid laughed. "Well, I had a good example to follow. Now pass me them two towels." He nodded over to his bed. Heyes resisted the urge to throw them and instead simply passed them over. He turned away while Kid stood out of the bath to wrap them round himself. When Heyes looked back, he was glad Kid wasn't facing him as the almost solid purple mass across his partner's back made him shudder.

Heyes knew Kid had been dreaming about the beating, however calm he appeared now, because he'd had to shake him awake out of nightmares a few times. But now he thought about it, he hadn't had to last night. It seemed Kid had found a way to come to terms with what had happened. He supposed he should do the same and just make sure that the men who'd done it, paid a high enough price to satisfy them both.

ASJ

Kid woke up slowly and carefully moved his head to look over at the other bed. Heyes was awake but reading what looked like a map. Kid taking advantage of Heyes being unaware he had woken, lay still for a few minutes, preparing himself for his partner's scrutiny.

He knew he'd have to be careful not to show any weakness if he wanted to persuade him he was fine to be up and about. It should be relatively easy. He still had a persistent headache, but it was mild. He had to be careful with how he moved, but he was genuinely feeling much better and needed to be doing something other than just lying in bed. He shifted noisily and Heyes looked over at him. "I found out exactly where that carriage driver lives. Ain't in the best part of town, but it ain't the worst. I thought we could introduce ourselves tonight." He smiled then, his eyes alight. Kid grinned back at him, pleased Heyes had come round to his way of thinking.

At just past eleven that night, they were hiding in the shadows outside the address Calhoun had given them. Heyes was working on the lock while Kid was keeping an eye out. It wasn't long before Heyes gave a quiet grunt of pleasure as the door clicked open. "We're in, Kid."

They crept up a short flight of stairs and easily found the small bedroom, where presumably Masters was sleeping. Kid moved a bit too quickly to listen at the door and bit his lip to prevent a gasp escaping him at the short burst of pain from his back. "I don't hear nothin' but snorin' Heyes."

Heyes nodded. "Me neither. Lets go say hello shall we?"

Entering quietly they saw a man tossing restlessly in his sleep. An almost spent lamp was shining dully on a small table by the bed. Approaching slowly they sat on either side of the sleeping figure, wincing at the strong smell of alcohol on his breath. Kid cocked his weapon and the man startled awake. He seemed unsurprised to see them, almost resigned even. "I don't know you folks, but I think I know why you're here. Might as well get on with it. I ain't had a good night's sleep since it happened."

Kid huffed unimpressed, "Maybe you oughta have considered that before you ran the lady over."

He was unprepared for the man sitting upright suddenly, a look of anger on his face. "You think I wanted to? They threatened my Ma and my sister. I went to the police and all I got was a beating and more threats. I even tried to avoid killing her, but I'm sure someone pushed her under the wheels. Next day I got an envelope stuffed with money under my door. I ain't touched none of it. It's over there in that drawer." He trailed off and Kid studied him, he looked dreadful, shadows so deep under his eyes that they looked like bruises. It was easy to believe the man and with a look over at Heyes who nodded, he uncocked his gun and slipped it back to his holster. Master's looked shocked. "You ain't here to kill me?"

Heyes laughed softly. "No, you've convinced us you're telling the truth. But just to make sure, you're going to write what you told us down, sign it, then get it witnessed by a lawyer so he can lock it up all nice and snug."

Master's shook his vehemently. "I'd be signing my death warrant and probably my ma's and sister's too. I ain't dumb! What's in it for me?"

Heyes smiled as he added. "Well we won't kill you for one, and afterwards you and your family are going to leave Denver and go as far away as you can. You earnt that money, so you might as well spend some of it. We'll stay tonight and see that you get that paper written. Then after it's been put somewhere safe, we'll make sure you and your family get on whatever train you choose to without any problems."

Masters looked at them suspiciously. "How do I know I can trust you?"

Kid saw Heyes' teeth gleam as he said. "Well that's just it, you don't, but the way I see it, you ain't exactly in a position to say no are you?"

ASJ

Kid accompanied Masters to the lawyer's office while Heyes went to speak to his family. By nine thirty in the morning all five of them were at the station. As the Masters family went to buy their tickets Heyes looked over at Kid. "We gotta find a way to see Calhoun and tell him what we found out and show him the money Masters gave us. I ain't keen on asking Mr Barton his address, so even though I said we oughta keep our distance, I think one of us has gotta go see Rebecca." He paused and shook his head as Kid started to volunteer. "To be honest Kid, I think it oughta be me."

Kid glared at him annoyed. "Why you? Ain't as if she even likes you!"

"And that's why it's better I go. We ain't got time for you to get..." He paused and added with a slightly wicked grin. "Distracted."

Kid annoyed met his partner's eyes. "Heyes, you should have more faith in me. I can see her without us jumpin' into bed." Heyes looked at him unconvinced and after a brief staring competition, that Heyes won, Kid reluctantly admitted to himself that he probably had a point,as they hadn't managed it yet."So, what will I be doin' while you're busy not gettin' distracted?"

"You're gonna be on that train for a couple of stops, while stayin' out of trouble I hope!"

Kid nodded, seeing the wisdom of the plan as he gave Heyes Rebecca's address. A look of concentration crossed Heyes' face and Kid knew he was picturing the map in their room. It wasn't long before he whistled in some admiration. "Well, that's a sure fancy part of town. Ain't no wonder she's not invited you anywhere near, Kid."

Kid glared at him. "You better be careful the police don't take you in for bein' an undesirable, especially with that hat of yours."

Heyes didn't answer, just glared before stomping off out of the station as Kid laughed to himself. Some days it was just getting too easy to rile his partner. He looked up as Masters and his family came over to join him.

Kid got back to the hotel about ninety minutes later, after ensuring the Masters family were safely on their way. About half an hour later Heyes returned and threw his hat onto his bed with some vigor. Kid looked up from cleaning his gun. "Guess she weren't too happy to see you?"

"I tell ya, Kid, she's enough to make a Saint swear! She provided the address and even invited me in for a drink. But as I was leaving, she just had to comment that at least I didn't suggest you get arrested again. I ain't an idiot, Kid. You be sure and tell her that, next time you see her."

Kid chuckled. "I'll try and remember to, before I get too distracted!" He ducked and winced as Heyes threw a pillow at him.

ASJ

Heyes with Kid on his heels, crept into Calhoun's house, careful not to disturb the rest of the household. A brief look round the house confirmed that he and his wife followed the usual rich person custom of not sharing a bedroom.

After making sure there was no gun in reach, Heyes shook the captain awake as he and Kid sat on either side of the bed. "He spluttered at them. "How on earth did you get into my house? And why exactly are you here?"

Heyes grinned at him."Well we got something important to tell you and my partner weren't that keen on experiencing a third dose of your officer's so called hospitality."

Calhoun glanced over at Kid who shrugged. "You ain't got as much control over some of your men as you think you have."

"We got some money here that Masters says he was paid to run your aunt over. He's out of harm's way now, but before he left he gave us a pretty good account of what happened. Signed it and everything."

Calhoun's anger faded to be replaced by a keen interest. "Money? Means we might have a way of tracing that. I've been making a note of the serial numbers on the bills we get paid for our protection services."

Kid snorted and said. "Why not call what it is Calhoun? Robbery with violence."

Heyes felt the tension rise as the Captain glared at Kid, who stared back, his hand edging unconsciously to his gun. Heyes wasn't quite sure how he was going to defuse the situation. But after a tense couple of minutes, Calhoun with a nervous expression on his face, no doubt conscious of how vulnerable a position he was in, only said mildly."Although there was nothing I could prove, I believed my officers weren't being completely forthright about some things, therefore it seemed sensible to take some precautions. Then of course my Aunt Rosemary died and I realised that the situation was even worse than I'd feared. Having a written record suddenly seemed essential, just in case. Calhoun smiled in what was an almost conciliatory manner as he added. "I'm not an evil man, Mr Curry, just not a totally honest one."

Jed smiled slightly and glanced over at Heyes before looking back at the police captain. "Guess I've no real right to be annoyed, seein' as it ain't much different from what me and Heyes did." He paused, "cept you're meant to be on the right side of the law and your victims generally get more bruises." Despite his last comment, his body had relaxed and his hand had moved away from his gun. Heyes breathed a little easier as he realised the crisis had passed.

"You say you've got a record of serial numbers? Are they here at home? I've brought the cash with me." Heyes patted his shirt pocket and pulled out an envelope full of bills.

"Seemed the most secure place. They're in my safe right here under my desk." He made as if to get out of bed, but Kid shook his head indicating he stay where he was.

Heyes looked round the room, spotted the safe and felt his heart rate increase and a strange tremor of excitement run through him. "I'll open it! Bin too long." He felt his face split into a grin as he jumped quietly off the bed and knelt in front of the safe and took his pocket watch out. "What do you say Kid? How long?"

Kid peered at it and humphed. "Well it sure ain't fancy. Three minutes tops and only cos you're out of practice."

Calhoun grunted. "I was told it was one of their best."

Heyes snorted and said. "They saw you coming." He stretched his fingers in preparation then leant his ear against the door, feeling pleasure sweep through him as he settled his right hand on the lock. Damn he still missed this!

He had the door unlocked in two minutes fifty seconds and gave Kid and Calhoun a satisfied grin. He took out several sheets of paper and studied them for a few seconds. "Hey, Kid come and gimme a hand with looking at these numbers."

Heyes looked over as he spoke and saw Kid hesitate with a glance over at Calhoun. Heyes knew his partner didn't exactly trust him. Calhoun shrugged with a small smile and shrug. "I'm not planning on moving a muscle! I'm as interested as you in finding out if those numbers match." Jed nodded and went to join Heyes by the safe. The majority of the money Jacobs had been given was in fifty dollar bills. "You got a pretty good system here Calhoun. Easy to follow. You got more than one copy too. Pretty smart."

Calhoun glared at him. "Got another one lodged with a lawyer too. You know Mr Heyes, I didn't obtain this job just because of my family name."

Heyes snorted, "Of course you didn't Captain. We wouldn't suggest such a thing, now would we Kid?"

Kid just looked at him and said. "C'mon Heyes, lets just get this done and get outta here!"

"I know neither of you have any reason to trust me, but believe me I am not a murderer and I'm just as invested in this as you two are- maybe even more so. She was my aunt after all, not just a meal ticket."

Heyes put a restraining hand on Curry's arm and patted him as he felt him tense and start towards the bed.

Once he was sure Kid wasn't about to pounce, he turned to look at Calhoun angrily, his eyes flashing at the slur. "That ain't exactly a smart thing to say, when you ain't armed and you're still needing our help. Maybe we'll just let you sort this out on your own." He knew Kid wouldn't want to walk away, but there was no harm in letting the man think it was a possibility.

The Captain looked a little shamefaced and raised his hands in an apology. "I'm sorry that was uncalled for." He sounded genuinely contrite, but Heyes knew he might have just been a good actor, either way he felt his partner relax and look down at the papers in his hands.

"A senior officer would have to sign to release the money. Lieutenant Steiner is the next in seniority to me."

Heyes snorted. "I do love a bit of hierarchical larceny, gives me real faith in the system."

ASJ

Back at the hotel, Kid undressed, before lying down heavily on his bed. He tried to suppress a groan as he shuffled to get comfortable, but failed. His head was thumping and his bruises throbbing. He closed his eyes and hoped Heyes hadn't heard him. When after several minutes he still couldn't find a comfortable position to lie in, he sat up carefully to see if that helped.

He felt Heyes' gaze on him, from the other bed, he gritted his teeth, expecting a lecture or at least a caustic comment, but instead his partner only said mildly. "Think a drink might help? I liberated some of the good stuff when we were leaving Calhoun's. Doubt he'll miss it, there were at least seven more bottles."

Kid wondered when he'd got the chance, before remembering, the apparent wrong turn Heyes had taken just before they'd slipped out the kitchen window.

Kid nodded wearily and gratefully took the proffered bottle and took a large drink. It really was the good stuff and he sighed in some appreciation as he said. "How we gonna get to Steiner? We hafta find a way to persuade him to talk to us. Ain't gonna be easy, as he might face a noose if he ain't careful."

"Gotta be someone involved mighty high up, to challenge Calhoun, so we'll just get him to roll on his boss. Convince him that'll give him a lighter sentence.

Kid laughed at the confidence in Heyes' tone, "Just like that?"

"Yeah, Kid, just like that. We got plenty evidence and Calhoun's backing us."

Kid was dubious. "I know he ain't involved in killing his aunt, but I don't trust him."

"Men like him always got their eyes on bigger things. He helps us, he probably figures they'll turn a blind eye to his protection racket."

Kid nodded, seeing his point. "That thievin' operation the police got goin', makes what we did, look like penny-ante stuff. Don't seem right no one much cares till someone dies, when we got the threat of a twenty year prison sentence and a reward on our heads."

"Well, Kid, that's why we got out of it when we did. Ain't easy winning when the dice are loaded."

ASJ

Heyes stuck his head round the door of Steiner's bedroom, before quickly stepping back with a muffled groan.

Kid moved quickly to stop his toes being stepped on and looked at him in both irritation and surprise. "What's up?"

Heyes sighed quietly. "I ain't breaking in on a man and his wife when they're doing what they're doing. I doubt it'd put him in a listening mood."

Jed looked curious and started to walk forward as if he was going to peer round the door, but Heyes shoved him towards the stairs. "Ain't nothin' you ain't seen and done before, Kid and it weren't pretty. Gonna give me nightmares!"

Hiding in the alley to catch their breath, Heyes shook his head trying to clear the image out of his head. After a few minutes he finally succeeded by overlaying it with the floor plan of one of the many banks they'd robbed and smiled in relief.

"What do you suggest we do Heyes? Come back tomorrow and hope they ain't" Kid paused and added drily, "busy again?"

"Nah we can't risk it. We'll just have sneak into his office and wait for him there."

"Think that'll make him more willin' to listen Heyes?" Kid didn't sound convinced but Heyes glared at him.

"I don't wanna risk seeing what I just saw again. So unless you got a better suggestion. We're gonna take that chance."

ASJ

As they crept round the outside of the police station looking for a discreet way in, Kid could feel Heyes watching him slightly nervously in between them eyeing the building. "You gonna be able to keep your temper when we go speak to this Lieutenant?"

Kid was annoyed at both the tone and the question itself. "I ain't gonna shoot him if that's what you're meanin. I don't even know him. I don't like crooked law-men, but I got some restraint. You ain't being fair."

Heyes' expression turned a little guilty. "I know you ain't gonna shoot him, Kid. Just thinkin' if we run into any of them yahoos..."

"We'll try and avoid 'em, Heyes, but I ain't gonna lie. Might be satisfyin' facing them when my hands ain't tied."

"You gotta keep your mind on the bigger prize, Kid. Prison sentences."

Kid frowned, it was all right for his partner, he hadn't been on the receiving end of those punches, so although he knew that Heyes had a point, he wasn't quite ready to give in. "Dunno why we can't have both."

Heyes looked over at him, with annoyance clear in his eyes as he said. "Less you wanna do some jail time you gotta let that idea go! There's laws against beating up law-men, even corrupt ones. We didn't spend three years being broke and on the run, just for you to throw it away with your fists."

Kid sighed at the genuine irritation in his partner's voice and reluctantly surrendered to his partner's more level headed attitude."You know, Heyes, you ain't much fun now we're not wanted."

Heyes humphed. "Depends on your idea of fun! Now hush while I try and figure a way in that don't involve us getting caught."

Kid sighed and said softly. "Still as proddy though." Heyes glared at him before turning his attention to possible entry points.

Heyes finally spotted a way in that he was happy with and started forward keeping low as Kid followed him. "Oughta bring us in at basement level. Ain't likely come across anyone, especially this early.

As Heyes had hoped the area was deserted and they walked undisturbed through the narrow, dim corridors. When they came close to the passage way that he'd been dragged down to his beating, Kid's remaining bruises started to throb. With proximity, the newly buried memories of the pain and helplessness, started to resurface too clearly to be completely ignored. He grumbled softly at himself in some annoyance when his feet started to drag at the small spike of anxiety coursing through him. Heyes glanced back at him with a look of concern. Kid shrugged banishing the unwelcome feelings quickly. He hurried to stand on Heyes' left, so his gun arm would be free.

Steiner's office was less fancy then Calhoun's and smelt of cigars and whiskey. They concealed themselves and waited for the Lieutenant to enter. Heyes wasn't sure how long they were there and sighed as he saw Kid's eyes drooping. Man could sleep just about anywhere. He was about to comment, when the door clicked bringing his partner to full alertness. "Show time, Kid."

Steiner's eyes widened and his face contorted with fear as he was confronted.

"You've been a very bad man Mr Steiner. Time to ante up."

It took little time to persuade him it was in his best interest to co-operate. "My wife! My family. You have to realise I was just following orders. The Commissioner told me I'd be well rewarded, if I did what he said. I didn't know it'd involve murder! I didn't push her, it was Simmons and Jacobs. I only signed for the money. You gotta believe me."

Heyes stared at the weak looking man in some disgust- a small man with too much ego he thought. He was about to retort when Curry's low angry voice broke in. "Pretty sure you did more than that Steiner. You might not have bin expectin' murder, but it weren't like you much cared so long as you got somethin' out of it."

While Kid watched them with his face dark with anger, Heyes secured the man's wrists behind him. Smiling in some satisfaction at the wince from him as the rope bit into him. "Ain't fun being on the other side of things, now is it?"

Steiner said nothing and merely looked down. Heyes smiled with grim satisfaction.

They dragged Steiner to Calhoun for him to make an official statement. After he'd been locked up in isolation, to prevent any chance of him being killed. The Captain with Heyes and Curry following returned to his office where he went to his desk and unlocked a drawer.

He smiled at Heyes as he handed over a large wad of money."Seems like I got the right people for the job. Seven thousand dollars for you." Heyes took it and folded it into his pocket, wondering with little concern who it'd originally belonged to. He glanced over at Kid, who stood casually by the door with the slightest smile on his face, before turning back to face Calhoun who looked smug and pleased with himself.

Heyes had to resist the urge to say something cutting, as it seemed entirely unfair that he would gain from his and Kid's work, and not face any consequences, but justice of a sort had been done. They'd have to be satisfied with that. Heyes had to admit the money in his pocket went some way to easing his irritation as it'd set him and Kid up nicely for quite a while. They'd learnt in their days of seeking amnesty, to live far less extravagantly than they would've when they'd been robbing for a living.

Calhoun's voice broke into his musings. " What with what the carriage driver said, Steiner's statement and those serial numbers, I got plenty evidence to sink everyone involved. I guess you'll want to be in at the end, boys."

"You better believe it Calhoun. We did most of work after all. Ain't that right, Heyes?"

Heyes looked over when his partner's dry voice broke in. "You got that right, Kid. Wouldn't want to miss the look on the man's face for anything."

ASJ

A few days later with Calhoun and a few men he could trust accompanying them, they confronted the Commissioner at his home in the early hours. He put up very little resistance and Heyes was almost disappointed at the anti-climax, but that was soon dispelled at the look of subdued contentment on Kid's face as the man was arrested.

Heyes held his breath briefly when Kid stared at him in some disgust with his gun still raised. But while there was anger in his face, Heyes recognised quickly that there was no danger of him doing something they'd regret. His tone in fact was surprisingly level as he said. "That woman you had killed was worth ten of you."

Heyes knew that it was unlikely the Commissioner would hang, rich as he was, but he'd certainly spend the rest of his life behind bars. He glanced over at Kid, who looked back at him with a small smile, before turning back to watch the officers drag the handcuffed man roughly out onto the street.

The headlines screamed about the case for days. Kid was unusually eager to read the papers. One evening Heyes looked up from book, to a sigh of disgust from his partner. "Calhoun's runnin' for Commissioner on an anti-corruption ticket. Don't that just beat everythin'?"

"Well, Kid, maybe we oughta accidentally let slip about his protection racket when we're giving evidence." Heyes laughed at the grin that crossed his friend's face.

"Now that's one of your better plans, partner."

ASJ

Heyes watched as Kid, dressed in his best suit, studied himself in the mirror and gave his jacket a nervous tug, before attempting to straighten his hair. Heyes thought he looked pale and tired. He'd also been even quieter than usual the last few days. "You sure seeing Rebecca can't wait for a day or two. You ain't looking too well."

Kid started as if he'd been miles away. "It sounded important." He laughed softly before rubbing his forehead as if in some discomfort "And she ain't an easy woman to say no to. Don't wait up for me, Heyes. I probably won't be back till the mornin'."

Heyes suppressed a small sigh. As amusing as it was seeing his usually independent partner a little less than confident where a woman was concerned, it also gave him some small twinge of concern. Rebecca Poindexter still seemed to have Kid twisted round her beautifully manicured fingers. "I'm just gonna spend the evening in the Nugget. Play some cards, get acquainted with Rosie."

Kid smiled. "Well sure sounds like we both got a good evenin' planned."

Somehow the smile made the strain round his eyes even more obvious and Heyes couldn't help asking. "You sure you're all right?"

Kid frowned, but while obviously not exactly appreciating his fussing, he seemed to understand it as his gaze drifted back to the mirror. "I'm fine Heyes. Just being all cramped up, surrounded by nothin' but buildings is getting' to me, now I got time to notice. I'll sure be glad when the trials are over and we can get outta here."

Heyes asked as casually as he could the question that'd been bothering him for a little while. "You ain't thinking of staying on then? He knew Jed's decision would have a huge impact on the future of their partnership, and he wasn't ready to go it alone. Despite that feeling, he was still caught between hoping Kid would say no and worrying about what leaving Denver and Rebecca would mean for his partner's state of mind.

Curry sighed. "Tempted, but I'm just not cut out for city livin'. Wrong kinda noise and dust. Can't hear nothin' 'cept people. I'll come back from time to time, if that's what Rebecca wants."

Heyes was reassured by the answer because at least they'd be leaving together. But he was still left a little on-edge about what those trips back might lead to long term.

ASJ

Kid walked quickly through the now very familiar streets of Denver, to one of the better hotels where he and Rebecca were meeting. The persistent headache of the past three days laid heavy and thudded in time with the noise around him. He was cold despite the relative warmth of the evening and wished he'd brought a coat with him.

Rebecca was waiting for him in the lobby and he thought she looked a bit concerned. "You all right? Nothing wrong is there?" She'd been quite insistent they meet tonight and he was suddenly a little worried, but her expression was warm as she shook her head.

"Nothing's wrong Jed. Just a bit tired that's all. Are you all right? You look a little pale."

Kid suppressed a sigh, wasn't nothing wrong with him that some rest wouldn't cure. People keeping telling him he looked tired really didn't help. But he suppressed the urge to snap and said quietly. " I'm just tired too, been a long few weeks." He added with a wink hoping to get things back on track. "But I'm sure I can rise to the occasion. We don't need to do nothin' too energetic."

She smiled at him, her eyes lighting up as the worry seemed to ease in her. "I'm sure between us we can work something out."

As Rebecca let them into the room, Kid appreciated how comfortable it looked. Surprisingly unflashy given how much he knew it cost. He took off his jacket and laid it on the chair by the bed before sitting casually on the bed.

"You want a drink Jed?" Kid really just wanted to lie down and not for the reason he usually had when he was with a beautiful woman. He shook his head carefully and she smiled. "Eager tonight?"

Kid decided to let her think what she wanted, "Well it's bin a while."

She laughed then and sat down. He watched her slowly undress, deliberately teasing and despite not feeling fully well felt a spike of arousal. Once she was nude she started to remove his clothes and soon they were both naked on the cool sheets.

He let her take charge, too weary to protest. Some time later she moved off him to lie beside and Jed felt his eyes drifting shut. A while later he woke to find her watching him with a hint of sadness on her face. "Are you sure everything's all right Rebecca?"

She sighed but didn't move away. "I got some news a few days ago. William is very sick, he's not expected to live much longer." She sounded more irritated than sorrowful. "I don't know what to feel. We share children, but very little else. But duty means I must go say goodbye and arrange the funeral. There'll be a lot to organise."

Jed felt a strange twinge of panic, he knew there was something she wasn't telling him. "But you'll be back? We'll be in Denver for a while this don't need to be goodbye for good. I was even thinkin' I could come back and visit sometimes."

Rebecca's eyes were suddenly bright with tears. "Oh, Jed." Kid was surprised at how choked she sounded, unused to seeing her so emotional. "That's what I had to tell you. I'm not coming back. I can't spend two years with my life on hold, for a man who didn't care about me and who I'd not loved in far too long. I'm going to New York, to live near my sister. She knows and understands how things were between William and me." She laughed slightly. "She was never fond of him, even when we first married."

The pounding in Kid's head was suddenly fierce and he needed to get away and think. He pulled away from her as if burnt and she looked at him in surprise. He sat on the edge of the bed and felt her gently stroke him. "When do you go?"

"Noon tomorrow."

"So soon? Why wait till now to tell me?"

He felt her sigh. "Telling you made it real." She laughed softly then. "Silly!"

Jed turned back to her and smiled gently, understanding exactly what she meant, despite the sudden ache it brought. "Makes a kind of sense really." He took a deep breath and kissed her before moving back to study her. "I ain't mad, Rebecca, I'll be there to see you off, but I can't stay tonight. I'm sorry." He genuinely was sorry, now it was goodbye for good, but he needed some space to get his feelings straight.

Rebecca looked at him worriedly. "Are you sure, Jed, its raining now and you don't have a coat. Heyes won't be any more impressed with me if you get sick."

Kid laughed. "Don't worry about Heyes. His bark is worse than his bite. But I gotta go."

He dressed quickly and kissed her before walking out and down the stairs, exiting into the rain splashed street. It was still raining heavily, so Kid dipped into a saloon, but the noise and smoke just made his head pound. So instead of staying, he bought a bottle of whiskey and walked back towards the river. By the time he got there, dawn was breaking and the early morning sun was peeking through the clouds, despite the rain.

He sat on the bank and breathed in, not feeling the damp soaking into his clothes. Still deserted at this time of day, it was so quiet that he suddenly didn't feel he was in a city. The lack of noise soothed him and it was enough to clear his head a little, so he could think. He'd known that he and Rebecca had no real future, known it from the beginning, but this abrupt ending wasn't what he'd hoped for. He drank deeply from his bottle and stared upwards into the lightening sky. He wasn't sure when it happened, but he must have fallen asleep, as the next thing he was aware of, he was being shaken awake. "Jeez, Kid, whatcha doing out here? It's been pouring all night and damn it you're soaked."

Kid's head was pounding so hard his stomach was churning and he was shivering. He didn't feel well at all. "Rebecca's leavin'."

Heyes smiled gently as he patted his soaking shoulder. "I know, she came to find me. She was worried when you left." He paused. "You look terrible."

Kid felt pretty bad too and could only nod in agreement just as a cough caught him. "Gotta admit, Heyes, I've felt better."

"I don't think it's just city living getting you down, Kid. Now lets get you dry. Rebecca's waiting at the hotel."

ASJ

Heyes watched Kid sleep before turning back to Rebecca, feeling annoyed. "You shouldn't have let him go. He don't always think straight when he's had bad news. Thought you'd have known that by now. Couldn't you tell he was sick?"

"Now, don't get all high and mighty with me, Heyes! He's a grown man and he's more than capable of making his own choices. I think you forget that sometimes." Her eyes flashed and she wouldn't look away from him.

Heyes was glad that at least she hadn't called him Mr, but he still scowled, annoyed at just how easily she could rile him. "I know exactly what he is, Ma'am. But he can find trouble in an empty prairie." He didn't add that she was a perfect example, because he didn't want a full blown row.

Luckily as distracted as she was, she hadn't hear the unspoken criticism and she laughed at the expression then sobered, her face worried. "You think he's going to be all right? I can put my leaving off till tomorrow."

Heyes softened at the genuine worry in her face and voice. It reminded him that she genuinely did care for Kid. "He'll be fine. Probably just needs to sleep it off. Ain't sure he'll be awake to see you off, but I can do that...if you want me to." He was surprised that he'd made the offer, but he realised he felt some responsibility as Kid's friend to make sure she got off safely.

Kid stirred and looked at them, his eyes a bit cloudy and his voice scratchy. "'M sorry, didn't mean to worry ya both. Just needed some quiet." He was back asleep before either of them had thought of a reply. After a couple of minutes, Rebecca cleared her throat and stood up, she said with some reluctance. "I should be going. See you at noon."

Heyes stood to see her out. "See you soon."

At the door she turned to him with a small smile. "I would never have thought of the river." She left then and Heyes stared at the door for a short while, before turning to check his sleeping partner. He barely stirred as Heyes felt his forehead, relieved to find it cool. He got undressed quickly and clambered into bed, eager to at least get some sleep before he had to go to the station.

A few hours later Heyes stood on the platform as he and Rebecca stared at each other. "I'm going to give you my address in New York. I'll leave it up to you if you share it with Jed." She unclasped her purse and handed him a small card, which he put into his shirt pocket.

Heyes sighed. "He's a grown man like you say. Ain't my right to keep things from him. I tried to wake him to come, but he just mumbled at me."

Rebecca's face brightened a little. "Appreciate you trying. Tell him...just tell him I had fun."

With that she kissed him on the cheek and turned away to board the train. She waved at him through the train window. Heyes stood on the platform for a while as the train chugged out of sight before walking out of the station. He wasn't sure what they'd do next, but as he walked through the streets back to their hotel, he wondered whether in a few months time, it'd be worth persuading Kid that he was ready to take his first trip east of the Mississippi.