Title: Making Ends Meet.

They arrived in yet another Red Rock, exactly where Curry didn't care. All that mattered to him, after more than two weeks of various poorly paid dusty jobs and too many cold nights of sleeping outside, was that they'd never robbed the town bank, didn't recognise the Sheriff and that there was somewhere indoors to eat and sleep. After establishing all of that, they thankfully booked into the hotel, bathed, ate and slept.

The next morning they sent a telegram to Lom, not expecting a reply that said anything other than 'nothing has changed' and 'that there was a job they had to do.'

Our mutual friend has good news for Smith. Not Jones. No reason given. Expected Cheyenne two weeks.

Curry read and re read the telegram in his hand in disbelief, but the words didn't change. His legs started to tremble. He could hear Heyes talking to him, but couldn't make out what was being said through the rushing sound in his ears. He blinked rapidly, trying to fight the sudden spinning in his head, but the telegraph office tilted around him. He was sure he was falling, then everything faded to grey.

When he came back to himself, he was sat down, with a very worried looked Heyes gently slapping his right cheek. Kid tried to speak, but found his throat too tight and his mouth far too dry for any words to form. So instead he just shook his head and looked between his partner's concerned gaze and the telegram that now lay on the floor. Heyes continued pat his face as he said. "Thaddeus, C'mon, talk to me."

As his cheek started to sting, Kid pushed the hand away and cleared his throat with some effort but still couldn't speak. Heyes bent and picked up the telegram, sticking it in his shirt pocket before saying. "We'll get this sorted out. Gotta be some mistake."

Curry found his voice as the strange feeling of his head being stuffed with cotton eased, although he was left with a sharp pain over his right eye. "Ain't likely Lom made a mistake like that, Heyes. You gotta go to Cheyenne, get what we was promised. Maybe you'll learn more then."

"It ain't right!"

Curry shrugged in agreement, before he allowed Heyes to give him a hand up out of the chair. He stood carefully and was grateful as he did so, that his legs felt firm under him. Suddenly aware of eyes on them, he nodded over at the telegrapher who was looking at them with poorly disguised interest. "I don't like the way he's starin' at us!"

Heyes with his hand resting gently on Kid's shoulder, followed his gaze and nodded in agreement. "Lets get back to the hotel, where we can talk without worrying anyone's listening."

Kid with his mind full of questions, that he knew had no real answers, followed Heyes out of the telegraph office. On the way back to the hotel, Heyes some whiskey from the grubby looking saloon.

Once back in their room, Kid yanked off his boots and flopped down into a chair, putting his feet up on the bed as Heyes waved the bottle at him. He nodded and when Heyes handed it over, took a large drink and coughed as the liquid scalded his throat. He handed it back over to his partner, who also took a drink, before flopping down heavily onto the large bed that Kid was resting his feet on, with a grunt of annoyance. "Dunno what the Governor's thinking, I figured it was both of us or neither of us. Seems real odd if you ask me."

Kid now the shock had worn off was actually a bit less surprised then he could've been, but the disappointment was still intense. He wondered if somehow word of what had happened at West Bend or even Matherville had got back to Cheyenne and made the Governor unwilling to take the risk on him. He couldn't quite bring himself to voice those thoughts, so instead said with far more calm then he actually felt. "Heyes it ain't the end of the world. Ain't that shockin' the Governor chose you. Like I've said before, I always half-figured you'd get it rather than me."

Heyes took another big gulp of whiskey and looked at Kid with an unimpressed expression. "You ain't fooling me, Kid. Now hush and lemme think, so I come up with some sorta plan."

Kid shook his head when Heyes offered him the bottle again. His head was still throbbing and the first drink of whiskey had left his stomach churning too much for another one to appeal. He looked round the room before returning to gaze at his friend, who was frowning, deep in thought. He said firmly. "Heyes, I don't even think your best plan is gonna help us out of this mess. We just gotta face facts." He paused, taking a deep breath around the sinking feeling in his stomach. "We always knew amnesty was a long shot, whatever we told ourselves. Guess we oughta be glad that least one of us got it."

Curry watched as an incredulous expression crossed his friend's face. "So what? You're gonna give up?" He clicked his fingers. "Just like that?"

"Heyes you know as well I do ain't nothin' just about it. Been nigh on three years and with you gettin' it and me not, we ain't got nowhere left to turn. 'Cept you to Cheyenne and me to Denver or 'Frisco maybe. Get myself lost."

"We can't just give up without a fight, Kid. This ain't right."

Kid suddenly weary, indicated he wanted a drink. When Heyes passed him the bottle, he ignored the way his stomach twisted and took a huge gulp, before handing it back. "I know it ain't, Heyes, but push too hard and the Governor might change his mind about giving you yours, and have you arrested instead. Where'd that get us?"

Heyes shrugged at him, his face clouding. "Before we decide anything too drastic, lemme go to Cheyenne and see what the Governor has to say for himself."

Kid had no objection to that, though he didn't think it'd change anything. "I'll camp a couple of miles outside."

ASJ

"It wasn't anything you done or not done. Governor talked to the railroad folks and the bank folks, they agreed to one of us getting it and flipped a coin. Can you credit it? Deciding something that important with a coin toss?"

Kid snorted at the anger in his tone and said dryly. "Yeah, fancy that, Heyes."

Heyes looked up at him with a tight smile which softened into a wry grin. "Now, C'mon, Kid, it ain't quite the same..."

Kid wasn't exactly sure he agreed with him, but strangely, was almost relieved that it had been something as simple as losing a coin toss. Much better than the ideas that had been tormenting him while he'd waited for Heyes' return, so he just shrugged. "Figures. Ain't won more than one or two of 'em since, well ever, so it's not exactly a surprise I lost this time."

Heyes stared at him for a moment before saying quietly. "I persuaded the Governor that it'd be better if he kept the deal on the table for you. He didn't give me a date or nothing, but he agreed to keeping the offer the same."

Kid was grateful for that and managed a genuine smile at his friend. "Thanks, Heyes." He stared into the fire as he added. "I figure I'll still go to Denver and wait it out though. I ain't keen on towns, but I'm likely safer in one, than riding out here on my own and it beats goin' to South America or freezin' my ass off in Canada."

"Yeah, you're likely right. Probably best if you use a different alias too, Kid."

Kid met his friend's gaze then and saw his own uncertainty reflected in his eyes. "I'll let you know what name I'm using. You can keep in contact with Lom for me and let me know when anythin' changes." They lapsed into silence and Kid sighed and stretched out looking up at the darkening sky.

Heyes eventually broke the stillness as he asked. "When will you go?"

Kid looked over at his friend and said firmly. "Don't seem much point in hangin' on. I'll ride out in the mornin' and catch the next train I can." He didn't need to add that if he didn't go soon, he'd probably end up staying, which didn't seem to be a good idea at this point. "Ain't no need for you to come. I'll get word to you when I'm settled and decided on the name I'm gonna use."

ASJ

In the midday heat, Kid wiped his brow as sweat poured into his eyes. He was working on one of the nearly finished high end hotels and after two days was finally managing to hit the nails more than his thumbs. He'd stripped to his Henley, earning him many disapproving glances, but he was far too hot in his shirt to be bothered by the looks he was being given. He hadn't been arrested or even asked to leave so wasn't overly concerned. He was suddenly aware of eyes on him from the street below. He stopped hammering to look down and as he squinted against the bright sun, he saw an attractive older woman, dressed stylishly and expensively.

He met her gaze and for a moment thought that her expression resembled poorly disguised attraction, before he dismissed the idea and shook his head at having such a strange notion. She probably just wanted directions to one of the expensive new stores or restaurants. She'd no doubt taken a wrong turn after leaving one of the fancy hotels. Denver was changing almost every day and it was easy to get lost if you weren't too cautious.

"Ma'am? Can I help you?"

She smiled at him. "Would you come down to the street, so we can have a proper conversation?" Kid looked round at his boss, who was glaring at him for stopping work, but as he obviously recognised the woman as someone important, forced his expression into a smile and waved him down. "Just make sure you don't take too long. We got targets to meet."

He jumped down and smiled at the lady, making a sketchy salute. As she looked at him with a serene and mildly amused expression. He suddenly felt particularly unclean and wished he was wearing his hat. "You lost Ma'am? I know this part of Denver pretty well, can probably point you in the right direction."

Her smile broadened. "I'm not lost. I've seen you here the past two days. You've caught my eye every time I passed. I thought you might be interested in a business proposition of a sort." She looked at him with a definite glint in her eyes and Kid realised with a jolt of surprise that he hadn't imagined the expression on her face when he'd first seen her.

"Ma'am?" He was proud of himself that he didn't quite stutter. He was hardly inexperienced, but this sort of approach was something he'd never faced before.

"Now don't look so shocked, young man. If you're interested come to The Brown Hotel next Tuesday around noon. I'd suggest you wear something a little more appropriate though. Don't want to draw too much attention to ourselves after all." She started to walk away, leaving him slightly stunned before turning back to him still smiling. "I'd like to know your name."

"Rembacker, Ma'am. Thaddeus Rembacker."

"Well, Thaddeus. I do hope we meet again." With that she continued on her way, without another glance back. He stared at her retreating form a little in shock, until the construction boss cleared his throat meaningfully and pointed back up to the wooden framework, looking at his pocket watch. Kid pushed the odd meeting out of head with some difficulty and went back to his hammering. But throughout the rest of the day and the two days that followed, the strange encounter kept coming back to him. Which was why Tuesday found him dressed in his best suit, hovering outside Brown Hotel, nerves twitching slightly.

He took a deep breath and entered, slightly overawed by the wide expansive reception area and just how bright everything was. He felt his back stiffen as a fussy looking man with a disapproving look on his face start towards him. As he reached him he hissed. "The tradesman entrance is at the back. We don't want our guests being bothered by riff raff!"

He opened his mouth about to give a retort he'd likely regret, when thankfully for them both, the woman he was meeting walked over to them. As she came up she said sternly. "Now Albert, this man is my guest. I'd like tea for us both as quickly as possible please."

Albert flushed red and managed a sickly smile. "Yes, yes of course, Mrs Poindexter. I didn't realise. I will see to that straight away." With a nod at them both he hurried off as the woman turned to him her expression amused. "There's no real harm in Albert, he just takes his job rather seriously. Now I've chosen a table in the restaurant for us. It's tucked away in the corner. Gives us some privacy so we can talk properly."

She tucked her hand round his right elbow as he hurriedly removed his hat with his left. As he felt the interested gaze of the people in the restaurant as they entered, he wondered for maybe the tenth time since he'd woken, what on earth he was doing. He briefly considered making his apologies and exiting as quickly as he could, but soon they were seated in a small alcove hidden away from the other patrons.

Kid broke the silence between them, speaking rapidly. "I ain't sure about this Ma'am." His embarrassment wasn't exactly eased as she threw him an appraising look. He suddenly wondered whether this was how it felt for saloon girls.

She patted him gently on his knee with a kind smile. "Now I think you're going to do just fine. Also I believe you should call me Rebecca, considering what we're planning."

He shifted uncomfortably in his seat and couldn't quite meet her gaze as he said. "That's just it Ma'am, I ain't sure I can do what you're suggesting. Don't seem right somehow, now that I'm here."

She smiled and patted his knee gently. "Now young man there's really no need to be so nervous. I don't bite. I may be a little past my prime and definitely not one of those pretty young things that you and most men, including my husband so admire, but I'm not exactly a hag. It shouldn't be that unpleasant surely."

She sounded a bit offended and Kid looked up, eager to reassure her that wasn't the problem. He was caught by just how pretty her eyes were. "It ain't for that reason ma'am, Mrs Poindexter- Rebecca."

Her face cleared as she realised what he was trying to say. She was striking enough now, but Kid could clearly see the beautiful young woman she'd been, as she smiled then laughed gently. "Don't be so uneasy about that side of things, Thaddeus. It's simply as I told you last week, a business arrangement. One that's slightly more intimate than most, but still, nothing more, nothing less."

Kid thought about it, but just couldn't imagine being on that end of things. He stood up and said. "I'm sorry Ma'am, to have wasted your time."

As he started to walk away she called to him. "I understand why it's difficult for you, but think about it some more. If you do change your mind, I'll be here next Thursday all day. I'll leave your name at the desk. She paused and added with a faint smile. "Remember this is no different to what women have been doing for years. If you're even half as good as you look, and you're interested, I could certainly find some other interested parties." She winked at him as she added. " And if you need a little practice, I can help out with that side of things too." Kid felt his cheeks warm and tipped his hat before hurrying out, not stopping till he was out on the street.

As he moved away from the smart neighborhoods and towards the dirtier areas of the city, he began to wonder whether he'd been foolish not to accept Mrs Poindexter's proposition. It was hardly more illegal than robbing. Though mostly at least, outlawing had meant he'd been in charge of his own life. But over the past three years he and Heyes had been at the mercy of whichever walk-off was the governor that year, not to mention being dependent on folk not being ass-holes. Was what the lady suggested any worse than that? It certainly sounded like it paid better.

There was no sign of the still possible amnesty coming his way, and the Governor hadn't promised Heyes anything other than it still being on offer for Kid. The muddled thoughts tumbled over in his head as he walked and when he finally came to the corner of Market Street, where his dreary living quarters were, he suddenly remembered a favorite saying of his Grandpa Curry. "Makes no sense refusin' a fairly offered hand up. Foolish pride won't fill your belly or your pockets."

He still hadn't come to any firm conclusions as he lay on his bed in his cramped and worn room. Sleep was a long time coming and not just because of the endless noise from the street below him.

ASJ

Curry greeted Heyes with a smile as his partner jumped off the train from Cheyenne with a small wave. He looked well and except for the familiar battered hat, was smartly dressed in new clothing, which just made Kid aware of just how dusty and worn he must look. As he allowed himself to be drawn into an affectionate hug, the embarrassment at what Heyes might think of his appearance, quickly faded into pleasure at seeing his friend. Heyes drew away and briefly studied him, his face reflecting the same happiness. "It is good to see you, Kid."

After a few moments Heyes looked down and took a sheet of paper out of his shirt pocket, frowning at it in some concentration, before saying. "I'm staying at some hotel called The Beresford. I telegramed ahead to let them know when I'd be arriving." He paused and added hopefully. "But seeing as these instructions they sent me are awful, I'm kinda hoping you know where it is."

Kid nodded, recognising the name as one of the smarter places to stay not far from the station. He started to walk out to the exit with Heyes on his heels. As they entered onto the street, Heyes said. "I'm real hungry, Kid, you eaten anywhere decent lately?"

Curry hadn't, as he was forced to eat all his meals at his rooming house, not able to afford anywhere else. But there was one he walked past most days on his way to whatever lousy job he'd picked up, that sure smelt good. He shrugged at Heyes as he said. "There's one a short walk from here. Ain't never been, but it always seems busy. I'll take you there, then after, we can go play cards at The Golden Nugget." Or at least Heyes could, he'd try and stretch out a couple of whiskeys, till he could either escape to eat, or until Heyes was ready to call it a night.

The café was quite busy, but there were still several tables free. Heyes looked at the menu while Curry tried to ignore his rumbling stomach. When the waitress came over to them, Kid just ordered coffee. Heyes looked at him in some surprise. "You ain't hungry?"

Kid couldn't hold his gaze, suddenly both embarrassed and irritated, unwilling to admit he really didn't have the money for anything else. "I ate before I met you. Evening meal ain't till eight pm and I figure I'll just hang on till then. Mrs Parker gets a bit proddy if we don't eat what she cooks. " It wasn't exactly a lie, proddy seemed to be the woman's natural state.

"Kid, you'll only be watching me eat and I know you hate that." Heyes paused briefly, then a look of quickly hidden understanding crossed his face and he added a bit awkwardly. "My treat, make up for you losing an afternoon's pay." Kid hesitated, but suddenly desperate for something that wasn't lumpy oatmeal, thin soup and overcooked stew, found himself nodding and with a smile at the waitress waiting patiently, ordered the special.

Kid leant back in his chair with a contented grin on his face as he finished his meal and looked across the table to his partner. "That was a real good, Heyes." It'd been as delicious as he'd hoped and for the first time in weeks, he actually felt satisfied.

Heyes held his gaze and said with a small smile. "Look, Kid, I figure it's a bit early for the poker to be that interesting. You've got to take me to the hotel anyways, so why don't we just stay in the room for a bit? Maybe even get a bath or something. I sure feel like a change of clothes wouldn't go amiss."

Curry was tempted to refuse to salvage some of his pride. But the thought of a bath, a couple of hours on a bed that didn't make his back ache, with company that he didn't hate, had him nodding in agreement instead and he said casually. "Sure, like you say the games likely won't pick up till a bit later."

Even though he was clean and well-fed, Curry couldn't fight a heavy sigh as he lay in the smart hotel room on the comfortable bed. His arms behind his head he looked round the room as another sigh escaped him. He wasn't relishing to having to return to his own uncomfortable lodgings and was feeling some resentment towards Heyes and his post-amnesty success, while he was still waiting and still broke.

Heyes looking up from the leaflet on Denver that Curry had given him, turned his head to glare at him. "You gonna stop distracting me by sounding like a overworked train and talk about whatever it is that's bothering you?"

Kid tried and failed to suppress another sigh, earning a huff of frustration from Heyes who started reading again as he said. "Guess that's a no."

They lay in silence for a few minutes before Kid said quietly. "I'm sorry, Heyes, it's just ain't that easy." Heyes looked at him seriously, the leaflet loose in his hands. "I know Kid and it ain't even close to being fair." He turned away to study the pamphlet in his hands as he said. "You want me to not visit again?"

"Of course not, Heyes, why would I want that?" The idea of Heyes not visiting, left him feeling even worse than having to accept his charity. Not that he'd ever admit that to him of course, except maybe at gunpoint. But at the smile on his friend's face and the decidedly satisfied humph, he realised that Heyes knew anyway. After another pause, Kid cleared his throat and asked with a hint of embarrassment. "Heyes, what do you think about being paid for sex?"

"Well we done it more than once." He chuckled and added. "Several more times than once in fact. Can't say it bothers me. Why?" Heyes looked over at him, his gaze curious and a little puzzled.

"No, Heyes. Not payin'." Kid hoped he wouldn't have to spell it out.

Kid watched Heyes' face change from puzzled, to taken aback, to shocked, before settling into carefully neutral, as he replied. "Ain't never really thought about that side of things, Kid, to be honest."

Curry looked away down to the end of the bed and almost mumbled. "I met this lady. She um suggested that.." He trailed off not quite sure how to say it. He chanced a look over at Heyes, who was struggling to keep hold of his neutral expression. Kid suddenly unwilling to wait for whatever he might ask, once he inevitably lost the battle to remain silent, said quickly, "Suggested that she had a proposition I might be interested in. She's real classy, Heyes."

"I ain't meanin' to be prudish, Kid, but ain't she married? Don't exactly seem right somehow. You sure you wanna go down that road?"

Curry shifted uncomfortably at that and said. "Yeah, I know, Heyes. Forget I asked." He closed his eyes, wishing he'd not said anything, until he became aware that Heyes was still looking at him. "What?"

"Of course, you know what Grandpa Curry used to say, pride don't fill your belly or your pockets. Ain't really much worse than outlawing I guess."

"Sounds like it might be easy money too, Heyes."

"Well, we ain't had much of that lately. You could always try it and if it ain't right for you, ain't lost much."

The morning after he'd seen Heyes off back to Cheyenne, he spotted the ten dollars his partner had left for him on the dresser by the door, tucked carefully under the empty pitcher. Kid folded the money into his pants, grateful for his friend's discreet kindness and headed out of his room to sample the watery delights of his landlady's oatmeal.

By Wednesday evening, feeling dirty and exhausted after two days of whitewashing, Kid had decided he was going to swallow his pride and see exactly what Rebecca Poindexter was expecting of him. He still had a fair bit of money remaining from the ten dollars, Heyes had left, which meant he could have a bath, shave, a hair-cut and maybe even a decent meal without spending his last cent.

He fell asleep easily that night, but on waking wondered yet again exactly what he was contemplating. But the idea of being paid well, for something he enjoyed, suddenly seemed a hell of a lot more pleasurable than another three days of doing a job he hated for next to nothing.

He presented himself at the reception desk at noon, ignoring the knowing look that the man behind it gave him as he said "Suite 220. Mrs Poindexter said she was expecting you."

Taking a deep breath, he forced a smile through gritted teeth before striding up the stairs. He hesitated outside the specified door for a few minutes, before shrugging, knocking firmly and clearing his throat to call through the door. "It's Thaddeus, Ma'am."

The door swung open and he was quickly waved in with a husky. "I am very glad you changed your mind." She studied him with an approving smile as he stood just inside the room, hat in hand. "Yes, I do like the haircut and that suit is a much better choice of color for you." Despite his resolve, Kid started to feel a little uncomfortable at the way her eyes seemed to be undressing him and the openly appreciative expression on her face. Her smile softened as if sensing his sudden embarrassment and she waved him to sit down as she said. "Now, I think a drink is in order, before we get down to business."

After a glass of expensive brandy and some small talk, Kid was feeling more relaxed. However as he finished his drink and she looked at him with her head tilted to one side, he felt some of his nerves return. But he figured as they both knew what he was there for, it was likely best to get things started. So in a determined gesture he put his empty glass on the table behind him and turned back to her. He stood and slipped off his jacket quickly and began to unbutton his shirt.

A soft laugh stopped him and he looked up, slightly annoyed, with his embarrassment back with a vengeance, but her smile wasn't cruel as she said gently. "Now Thaddeus, take your time. There's no need to turn this into a race." She came over to him and laid a perfectly manicured hand on his shirt clad shoulder and blew gently in his ear. "Besides, I think I'd like to help."

With that she finished unbuttoning his shirt before slowly sliding it off his shoulders. He shivered slightly at the intense expression on her face, but was soon aware of nothing else, except her blowing gently on his chest, caressing it with one hand, while using the other one to unfasten his belt and pants. Once he was undressed, as she whispered instructions in his ear, he repaid the favor. Soon they were both nude and as she rubbed against him, he gently kissed her.

But she surprised him by turning them round and beginning to back him towards the bed. He stiffened slightly as he fought his instinctive need to lead,

After, as he lay half-asleep with her head on his chest while she played gently with his hair, it was easy for him to forget this was business. But obviously clearer headed then he, she propped herself up on one shoulder and looked at him. "You're really rather good, Thaddeus. I think." She laughed. "No, I know you're going to be very popular."

"Thank-you, Ma'- Rebecca."

Moving away from him, she stayed propped up on her side. He couldn't quite meet her eyes suddenly self-conscious again, but she tipped his chin up gently and said. "There's nothing to be ashamed off, Thaddeus. It's just an equitable business agreement that we will hopefully all enjoy." She waited till he was able to hold her gaze unprompted before releasing her hold. "Now, I'd like you to keep Thursday's free for me. I also think it's probably better, if payment is given at the scheduling meetings, to avoid any performance anxiety for you."

Kid nodded dumbly, still a little uncomfortable with her blunt straightforward way of discussing something so intimate. But in the face of such calm practicality, his discomfort quickly eased and he began to appreciate her briskness. Managing to think of some questions of his own. "When and where will these schedulin' meetings take place? And what do I wear? How do I go about refusing anything that I'm not exactly comfortable with? There are something's I really ain't willin' to explore."

Rebecca was looking at him, her smile warm and her eyes relieved at his grasp of the situation. "You're a quick study, Thaddeus. Good questions. Sunday evening at 7pm, we'll meet at the hotel on the corner of Elm and Parkin. Wear the suit you had on today, but don't bother with the hat. As to refusing anything, you should set out what you will and won't do when arranging the meetings, and make sure to be very clear, to avoid embarrassment on the actual day."

It didn't take long to finalize the arrangements and they dressed quickly with little ceremony. Soon Kid was ready to leave and as he stood at the door, he reflected it'd been far less of an ordeal than he'd imagined and he'd even enjoyed himself, despite the odd moment of discomfort. With his hand on the door handle, he turned to smile at Rebecca who was sitting on the rumpled bed watching him. "See you on Sunday." Pushing his hat back in a small salute, he exited quickly before he could start to feel embarrassed again.

As he reached the ground floor and walked through the entry foyer, he glanced over at the reception desk and was relieved to see a different man behind it. Although he knew taking this path would mean he'd have to get used to many such knowing looks. There'd hardly be much doubt as to why someone like him would be visiting a lady like Rebecca Poindexter in a place such as this.

He exited the hotel quickly and took a deep breath, before setting off at a brisk pace. As he walked, he started to regret agreeing to pursue such a lifestyle. By the time he'd reached his lodgings, he'd pretty much talked himself into contacting Rebecca to cancel. As he went into his pocket to dig out his key, he found a five dollar bill wrapped round it and flushed slightly in remembrance of why it was there.

But on entering the building, as he was assailed by the now depressingly familiar smell of poorly cooked food, a thought struck him. Tonight rather than brave whatever concoction Mrs Parker decided to cook, he could actually afford to eat somewhere nice, and with that thought, came the realisation that what Rebecca was suggesting was really too good an opportunity to refuse. It wouldn't be forever and it'd certainly allow him to live better than he was managing now.

ASJ

Kid sitting at a long table in a room on the top floor of the slightly down at heel hotel that Rebecca had named, looked round at the seven women spread round the table. He felt like a prize bull in one of the small town fairs he'd often visited. He'd already endured some touching in areas that most women would think twice about exploring in public and his skin was itching with what he thought was probably embarrassment or possibly nerves even. He'd felt far less anxious facing armed men than he did right now.

He was once again doubting the wisdom of his decision to go through with this, and jumped as Rebecca leant over to whisper in his ear. "Thaddeus, do try not to scowl. You look like you're facing a firing squad, rather than a few high society ladies. You're meant to be tempting them, not scaring them."

As Kid continued to study the women, he thought their expressions were anything but scared, but he plastered a smile on his face anyway, which earnt him an approving look from Rebecca.

The first woman to come over was a Mrs Barton, there was something in the way she looked at him, that sent a flash of unease down his spine, but then most of the looks he was getting from the women were making him a little uncomfortable. Her smile was not exactly warm as she said. "I'd like tomorrow ten am at The Beresford."

It was a little sooner than Kid might have liked, but at least it stopped him having too much time to back out. Rebecca smiled at him reassuringly so he nodded at Mrs Barton. "Yes Ma'am. Ten tomorrow." With a wave at the other women and a squeeze on his thigh she was gone.

Things went quickly then, as if her making the first move had broken the other women's reserve and Kid was soon fairly booked up. After the meeting broke up, the women exited one by one, with small intervals between their departure until just Kid and Rebecca were left.

She patted him gently on the shoulder and said. "Well, Thaddeus, that went well I think. I'll see you on Thursday. Now don't be late."

He could hear her heels clicking as she headed down the stairs. As he stood in the suddenly quiet room, Kid still wasn't exactly sure he was doing the right thing, but never one to take the easy way he decided there was worse things he could be doing.

Mrs Barton was waiting for him as he entered the lobby of The Beresford and together they went up to the room. Once there she indicated he should sit and stared at him for a minute, her gaze assessing rather than anything else and Kid started to feel uncomfortable again. "Well I think it's time we were properly introduced, don't you Mr Curry?"

At the words Kid wondered with a wave of something close to despair, if there was ever going to be a day when trouble didn't find him, but attempting to keep the concern out of his voice said as evenly as he could manage. "I think you have me mixed up with someone else, Ma'am."

She smiled then." No, I am definitely not mistaken. My husband and I were on a train you and your partner robbed about ten years ago. I never quite understood why you didn't cover your faces or use an alias even."

Kid knew if he tried to run he'd not get far and thought it typical that this is where it'd end. He had to admit her comment was a valid one. It was a rare that a day went by when he didn't ask himself that very same question, but he still didn't have a satisfactory answer, at least not one that didn't involve admitting they'd been dumb, so he merely shrugged and said. "We just never thought about it."

She shook her head at that, looking at him with only a hint of mockery on her face, "Over-confidence is a serious flaw in your line of work."

Kid nodded and said dryly. "We came to that conclusion a little late."

"It's quite a change of career you're considering, but I guess ten thousand dollars of notoriety isn't easy to dodge especially when you're trying to keep out of trouble. Even more difficult I imagine, now you're on your own,"

Kid jerked in some surprise and said, "Beg your pardon Ma'am?"

"I'm aware of the deal you've been offered and indeed I'm also aware that Mr Heyes has already received his amnesty. Mr Barton knows the current Wyoming Governor very well. So I have a proposition for you. In return for how shall we say it? A good performance, I will keep your secret." She gave him a small smile.

His eyes widened as a huge wave of relief swept over him at her words. He briefly wondered what price he'd end up paying for her silence. But he thought there was little she could do, that'd cost him as much as a twenty year prison sentence would. He managed a sincere, "I appreciate your understanding Ma'am and I'm happy to go along with your plan." Happy was perhaps too strong word, willing was closer to the truth, but it was all he could manage.

Her smile broadened at his words and she clapped her hands in some pleasure. "Very well. I have some conditions that must be met." Of course she does thought Kid a little wearily and straightened in his chair. "You will always be here before I am. I also expect you to be undressed when I arrive. You will stand by the bed until you are given permission to enter it and I expect you to follow my instructions exactly. You will address me as Ma'am unless I say otherwise. Is that clear?"

"Yes Ma'am perfectly." He figured she'd expect it for free, before mentally shaking his head at the thought. He should really be grateful that she'd decided not to turn him in and that her conditions were not as painful as they could've been.

"Good, now I want you to undress so I can see what exactly I'm paying for." She laughed gently at his surprise. "Oh I don't expect you to work for nothing, Jed. But I do expect you to work."

Afterwards when he was dressed, and she was still lying comfortably in bed, she smiled at him and said. "I look forward to next week." As he reached the door, eager to be away to get things straight in his head, she said. "Oh and Jed, I would recommend horse liniment for your hands."

He laughed as he walked out into the corridor, shaking his head as he realised just how little he really knew about women.

ASJ

As Kid sat on the edge of the large bed and bent to pick up his long johns that had ended up on the floor, a soft chuckle brought his gaze back to his client. She was watching him with undisguised pleasure, propped up on one shoulder. Viola Simpson was he thought a very good example of the phrase, never judge a book by its cover.

A widow, likely more than ten years older than Rebecca had seemed on first meeting to be genteel and refined. She'd been dressed in a style that even Kid recognised as old fashioned and had certainly being very careful not to touch him anywhere too personal on Sunday. But once in the privacy of a bedroom, she'd proven to be passionate and a little exhausting. The fingers of his left hand, already sore from his experience with Mrs Barton, were now aching even more. He was also fairly certain he would have a couple of small bruises on his hips. "Ma'am?" She hadn't asked him to call her Viola and strangely enough that hadn't brought him any discomfort. He was definitely going to have to buy himself something to rub on his hands.

"I was just wondering whether you own a duster to go with those cowboy boots." "I'm afraid not, Ma'am, only a sheepskin." He was a little puzzled by the slight hint of disappointment that crossed her face, but then she smiled again. "Look, Thaddeus, I understand we are meant to finalize arrangements at the weekly meetings. But if I remember correctly, you have a spot free on Friday."

Her smile broadened as he nodded. "Yes Ma'am, nothin planned at all." Except maybe sleeping he thought silently.

Well, young man, I have a proposition for you. Friday is a very important anniversary. Would you like to earn a bonus?" He felt a slight tingle of embarrassment at the unrestrained attraction in her face. It made him suddenly very aware of how his expressions might make some of the girls he looked at feel. Although in their case at least there were clothes between them.

"What did you have in mind Ma'am?" He wasn't going to agree to anything until he had a clear idea of exactly what she wanted. Heyes would be proud that after so many years of jumping in feet first, he was finally thinking things through.

She turned away to reach for her purse sat on the bed side table. He watched with some curiosity as she rustled inside it and murmured to herself before finally turning back to him with a folded up piece of paper that looked of good quality in her right hand. She handed it over to him and watched as he unfolded it.

It was a photo of a man astride a horse, with a child of perhaps two or three asleep and resting against his chest. A woman sat sideways behind him, in her arms was a baby. She was leaning into the man's back and he was reaching back to lay his hand on her knee. He was wearing a long grey duster that had seen better days. She a rather simple dress. They were both, unusually, smiling broadly at the photographer. Behind them was a small but sturdy looking cabin. They both looked young, no more than twenty five and probably not even that.

Kid was struck by the fact that even with the moustache and the longer curls, the man and he had some resemblance. Squinting at the photo he recognised the woman as Viola. He turned to face her as she took the photo from his hands, staring at it wistfully and saying softly. "We married at seventeen and despite what everyone told me, I went with him while he went prospecting. This was taken when we were twenty two. Day after he struck it rich. The first day of the rest of our lives." She looked up her eyes damp and Kid's heart ached a little as she said. "He was a wonderful man. When he died he took a piece of me with him."

She carefully returned the treasured photo to her purse and when she turned back to him, there was a slightly wicked gleam in her eyes. "We kept that old duster and his boots. Every year until the year he died, on the anniversary of that day, we'd remember in our own special way."

Kid cleared his throat and rubbed a hand through his hair, feeling unable to refuse "Any other preference for clothin' Ma'am?"

A broad smile crossed her face as she patted his leg, "No, Thaddeus, just the duster and boots." She moved her hand and stroked him more intimately as she added, "And I do mean, just." Kid felt heat of more than one kind flash through his body as she moved away with another small pat on his thigh.

As he walked back to his lodgings he passed a haberdashery. Taking a deep breath he entered and scanning the shop found what he was looking for, a rack of coats at the back. He walked over and searched through them until he found what he wanted. A grey duster. He knew there was nothing unusual in him wanting to buy one and in fact the man behind the desk showed no real interest or surprise as he paid for it. Still, Kid made his purchase quickly and was relieved once he was back on the street. He knew he was being foolish, but the image of what Viola was expecting seemed to be etched on his brain so sharply, he was half-sure everyone who looked at him could see it too.

ASJ

Kid knew he was being followed as he headed back to his room from the restaurant. There were at least three of them, maybe even four. He picked up pace and moved into a less shadowed part of the street, hoping that would deter his trackers. He wished he was wearing his gun, but he'd left it off for the evening. The restaurant he preferred was wary of men wearing tied down guns and he didn't want to give either customers or staff any reason to remember him.

The road narrowed due to building work at the corner of his block and almost immediately after the constriction, there was a small, very dark alleyway. He decided to cross back over the street and take the longer route in order to avoid them both. But as he started to do so, someone flew past him, knocking his shoulder and pushing him into the side of one of the buildings. He pushed quickly away from the wall, but not quickly enough as his distraction had allowed him to be cornered.

Heavy hands grabbed hold of him and despite his strenuous efforts to escape, he was dragged into the alley. He fought back hard and landed a few telling blows, until something heavy hit him in the side of the head.

Overcome by a wave of dizziness, his knees started to give way under him. To general laughter that set his teeth on edge, the hands holding him let him go and he sprawled heavily onto the ground. He looked blearily up at his attackers, hoping to be able to see their faces, so he could remember them and pay back some of their treatment. It might be a big city, but he was determined. Unfortunately he could see little through his blurry vision. One of the men, leant over and yanked his head back by pulling on his hair, taking his chin in a tight grip. "Now sonny, we know being flat on your back for those fancy women pays well, we're just wanting a piece of the action."

A cold chill at the implication of the words spread over him and even as he fought against it through gritted teeth, a low moan still escaped him. He struggled to release himself from the hands that held him, but they just tightened until he couldn't move at all. He closed his eyes briefly, before reopening them to stare defiantly upwards. Something of his sudden fear must have showed, because the man holding his hair laughed and slapped his cheek. "Not that sorta action, lover-boy. We ain't that hard up. We just want some of that easy cash you're earning."

Despite the insulting tone of voice and his anger at what was happening, something close to relief washed over Kid. "If you figure it's so easy, maybe you oughta try doin' it yourselves instead of stealin'. But likely you'd have to pay them instead." That comment earnt him several more kicks and hard hits, which left him instinctively trying to curl up against the pain despite the hands holding him. His last thought before his head hit the pavement and everything went black, was that unwanted attention or not, he needed to start wearing his gun again.

With his head and body throbbing in accusing partnership, he realised with a sort of distant surprise, as he drifted back into consciousness, that he was no longer in the alley. He was instead lying on a narrow bunk with his arms handcuffed behind him, putting strain on his already painful shoulders. He was on his side, his face pushed up against metal bars. A cell of sorts then. With that realisation came another. He was bare footed and stripped to just his Henley and long johns, which explained why he was so cold.

"Ahh our little sleeping beauty awakes!" He recognised the voice as the man who'd tormented him in the alley. He craned his head back to see where the voice was coming from. Even with his still slightly blurry vision, he could make out that the man was wearing some kind of uniform. Kid realised with a sinking feeling, that he was the law and suddenly saw the next twenty years of his life flash in front of his eyes. The man came over to the bars and crouched down so he was level with Kid. "I wanted to put you in general holding, but I got overruled. The Captain wants to see you, Rembacker, so up on your feet. It doesn't pay to keep him waiting."

Kid rose from the bunk with deliberate slowness, noting with some relief the use of his alias. Maybe there was hope yet.

A growled "Hurry up," accompanied by a billy club in his back made him grunt. He turned again to face the man as he struggled to keep his balance."If you'd have wanted me to be quicker, maybe you shouldn't have hit me so hard."

As the man unlocked the cell and pulled Kid out he said, "You fancying another beating?"

Curry shrugged the best he could, restrained and sore. "No Sir, I ain't too keen on givin' my bruises anymore company."

"Good, that's good. Because I think my knuckles are almost as bruised as your belly. So a word of advice son, if you aren't, keep a lid on that mouth of yours."

Kid realised that he should probably take heed of the man's warning and bit down the retort that threatened to escape. Instead he amused himself by imagining several ways to bruise more than the man's knuckles.

As he was escorted up the increasingly fancy corridors, he felt very exposed in his underclothes. He knew that was the point, so refused to be intimidated and met every curious or disgusted gaze firmly.

They finally reached a heavy oak door, with a shiny name plate announcing "Captain T. Calhoun." Curry's escort knocked and on hearing a muffled. "Enter." opened the door and pushed Kid into the office ahead of him. Curry could feel the tension in the man as he did so. "Captain, here's the man you wanted to see."

The man behind the desk nodded. "Very well Baskin. Secure him to the chair and then you may leave. Good work."

Kid stiffened and pushed back against the restraining grip, despite his handcuffs as he was shoved towards the chair placed in the center of the room. This earned him a sharp elbow in the back and a hissed. "Don't embarrass me sonny, or that beating you got will feel like a kiss from one of those fancy ladies."

He saw the wisdom of that and allowed himself to be pushed down into the chair. His hands were released then re-secured to the chair.

Calhoun came over to Kid and the disgust in the man's face, made Curry's hackles rise, but secured as he was, he had no way of avoiding the gaze. "My officer's tell me that you're making quite an impact amongst certain women, who may or may not be in my circle."

Kid couldn't help the surprise that crossed his face at that comment and tensed at the cruel amusement that crossed the Captain's face. " A little bit of advice, boy. You need to know the difference between secret and discreet, if you wish to stay out of trouble. Though of course it's a little too late for you to learn it now. My men know the identity of some of the women involved, but are smart enough to realise however, that it is in their best interests to ensure that I do not."

Kid felt a chill down his spine, realising just what kind of mess he was in. He remembered then what he'd somehow forgotten in his eagerness to make a decent living- the rich had less morals than most outlaws he knew and definitely more power. Taking a heavy breath and digging deep into the reserves that made him so good a gunslinger, he met the man's eyes and said calmly. "What trouble am I in exactly?"

Calhoun moved behind him and yanked his head back by his hair. Kid desperately smothered a sigh, that trick was really starting to get a mite tedious. "Well that depends on just how cooperative you're intending on being."

Before he could stop himself he said dryly. "Guess that depends on exactly what you're expectin'." He mentally kicked himself, he really should know better than to let his mouth run off. He didn't have Heyes' gift of talking his way out of trouble, but he was way too tired and sore to be careful and the man's tone had just set his teeth on edge. The man let go of his head and smacked him hard in the stomach. Kid gasped and tried to double over but the handcuffs prevented much movement. "I'm not sure you quite appreciate the situation you're in Rembacker."

Kid still trying to catch his breath, looked up at Calhoun and said carefully. "I think I'm beginning to...Sir." It cost him to add the last word, but he really did want to survive until tomorrow and it seemed sensible to not rile Captain walk-off.

"Now that's better. I'm thinking ten percent, starting next week. If you've got a problem with that, I'm sure my men would be happy to persuade you to change your mind."

A small snort escaped Kid as he said. "I ain't sure I'd appreciate that much, Sir."

"No I'm sure you wouldn't, son, so we're agreed then?"

Kid did a quick work out in his head and figured ten percent wasn't too bad. Of course, they might up the ante, but he'd cross that bridge if and when he had to. "Agreed."

Calhoun patted his cheek gently as he said. "I'm glad you've decided to be reasonable." With that he stood and walked back behind his desk, deliberately ignoring Kid as he shuffled some papers, leaving Curry fuming but unable to do anything but glare at the top of his head.

He sat perfectly still, quickly realising any movement just hurt. After a few moments, Curry decided it was easier to avoid saying anything he might regret if he kept his head down and didn't look in the direction of the desk. The handcuffs were digging into his wrists and even not moving was losing its effect of easing the pain, as his bruises started to throb.

About ten minutes minutes later, there was a knock on the door, the captain looked up with a smile on his face. He glanced briefly over at Curry and said "That'll be Baskin. Perfect timing as always." He raised his voice and called. "Enter."

As the officer came through the door, the Captain beckoned him over and said still smiling. "Rembacker has sensibly agreed to our request. Be sure to remind him of the consequences of changing his mind before you release him." He paused and added. "Oh and Baskin, try not to damage that pretty face too much." He looked at Kid in some contempt, but too busy trying not to groan as he was hauled out of the chair, Kid couldn't summon up much anger at his comment. "Though likely isn't his face they're mostly interested in."

After another beating, which left him conscious, but barely able to stand, he was allowed to dress. Which he did slowly and painfully under the amused scrutiny of two officers who then escorted him back to the alley.

Anger and humiliation warred with the pain as he was half-dragged, half walked to where this nightmare had started. Sick and dizzy, he stayed where they had propped him, against the wall for several moments, until he was sure he wasn't going to pass out. They'd left his face mostly alone, but his cheek felt bruised and his left eye throbbed, suggesting that it'd be black and swollen in a few hours.

It was already morning and the sun hurt Kid's eyes as he stumbled more than walked the short distance to his lodgings. He didn't bother to undress and simply dropped heavily onto the bed and closed his eyes, grateful when the world finally stopped spinning. He was asleep in minutes despite the pain.

When he woke a few hours later, he could barely move, but knew he needed to keep his appointment with Mrs Barton. He didn't doubt that she'd happily turn him in if he didn't. With what he'd just gone through as Thaddeus Rembacker, he wasn't certain he'd survive the treatment doled out to an outlaw worth ten thousand dollars, dead or alive. A quick look in the mirror on his way out the door, confirmed that both his left eye and cheekbone were bruised.

He wondered what the lady would think when she saw the state of the rest of him. He stopped in to buy the new Mark Twain for Heyes' visit on his birthday next week. He figured he'd best do it today, as he didn't plan on going anywhere except his bed after this afternoon, for at least a few days. He'd have to send his apologies somehow, he hoped Mrs Barton would know how to go about making sure everyone was contacted.

No one seemed particularly bothered by his bruising. Kid figured that was probably because Denver was a rough enough town that fights weren't exactly rare.

Once in the hotel room he undressed with some difficulty. He caught sight of himself in the mirror and gently ran his fingertips over the heavy bruising. He really hoped that on seeing the damage she wouldn't expect too much of him, or they'd both be disappointed. He lowered himself down onto the chair by the bed with a groan.

He sat with his eyes half-closed, thinking as little as possible and simply concentrating on trying to ease his throbbing bruises by taking shallow breaths. So intent on his task, it wasn't until Mrs Barton spoke to him that he realised she had even arrived in the room. "Jed?"

He hurriedly struggled to his feet and stood balancing himself with one hand on the chair.

"I'm sorry Ma'am. I didn't hear you come in."

She was looking at him with something approaching horror on her face as she took in his bruising. She glanced down at his hands and then looked back up at the rest of him. "What happened to you?"

"Nothin' that you need to worry about Ma'am. Just got myself into a fight." He'd decided there was little point in telling her the truth and thought she'd be likely to believe his excuse, especially with her knowing exactly who he was. However she looked at him and shook her head in some dismay. "Don't lie to me, Jed. This wasn't a fight, unless you can throw a punch with your hands restrained." She indicated the red lines on his wrist from the handcuffs and he looked up at her as she took it gently in her hands.

"It don't matter Ma'am. It's all been sorted. I just ain't sure I'm goin' to be much use to anyone for a few days. I was hopin' maybe you could let the other ladies know."

She didn't look up from her study of his wrist, but nodded absently. "I can arrange that, Jed, but only if you tell me exactly what happened."

Curry sighed heavily as she pushed him down to sit, not able to summon up the energy to lie. "Just had a run in with the law." She frowned and opened her mouth to say something as he added hurriedly. "They were just demandin' their ten percent Ma'am. They don't know who I am."

She clicked her tongue angrily and looked at him. "My nephew always was a nasty little boy. "At Curry's slightly raised eyebrow, she laughed wryly. "Yes, I am sad to say Thomas Calhoun is my sister's eldest."

He laughed too, not exactly shocked by the news that everyone was so interconnected, and blurted out. "Oughta have figured you'd know him." It was only after he'd said it, that he realised just how it would sound to her. Before he could apologise or clarify, she prodded one of the bruises on his stomach, which despite her using very little force, still made him wince. "Now, Jed, there is no need to be rude." But there was amusement in her eyes as she added. "I know what you mean. Denver's high society is a very small world." She stood back to look at him, her gaze appraising but not sexual. She tugged a stray curl on his forehead and smiled at him. "I do appreciate the effort you've made getting here. I will certainly get word to the other ladies. But we both know how unrealistic it is to believe you're in a fit state for our usual activities."

That of course meant he'd likely have to ask Heyes for a loan to pay the police next week. He didn't fancy the idea, for more than one reason, but he'd take it over the alternative. In a couple of days, when thinking didn't take quite so much effort, he'd consider whether he should just walk away and start over somewhere else. It didn't sit easily with him to let the police get away with what they'd done, but what exactly could he do? Jed thought about this as he nodded wearily and started to struggle to his feet, he searched vaguely round for his clothes and was surprised when Mrs Barton pushed him back down and shook her head in mock irritation. "Now, Jed, this room has a perfectly sound bed. If you attempt to leave now, I have a feeling I may have to pick you up off the floor of the lobby." She paused and added. "Also seeing as my family bear much responsibility for the state you're in, I will pay for today."

Kid opened his mouth to disagree with her, about which part of that he wasn't exactly clear on, but she placed her hand over his lips and said firmly. "Now remember our agreement. You should always follow instruction without argument."

At her words something tight released and Curry was suddenly out of fight. He knew he should probably leave, but instead found himself nodding and climbed into the inviting bed. He briefly relished the soft feel of satin on his sore body before letting his awareness fade completely, mere minutes after his head settled on the pillow.

He wasn't sure how long he'd slept, but when he woke she'd moved the chair to the other side of the room and was reading the book he'd bought for Heyes. She heard him stir and looked at him, holding the book up. "Not meaning to be rude or anything, but you hardly seem the Mark Twain type."

Rubbing his eyes gently to avoid aggravating his left, he blinked and pushed a hand through his hair as he answered. "I've read Tom Sawyer a time or two, but the book's for Heyes. I was hopin' to get tickets for that talk of his, but they sold out and I ain't got the money for the smaller events."

She smiled at him and leant round behind her, before waving two pieces of expensive looking card at him. "Well, I bought these for my nephew, but given the circumstances, I think you deserve them more."

Kid blinked in some surprise, but hoped that the tickets would go some way towards defusing the inevitable argument when Heyes saw his bruises. "I, um, thank-you, Ma'am. I'm mighty grateful." He looked at the clock on the wall, surprised to see how late it'd gotten. He'd slept for over three hours. He pushed the quilt down, thinking it was past time he was gone, and started to slide out of the bed, moving carefully to avoid setting the pain off again. He could feel Mrs Barton still looking at him and glanced back at her. There was a definite gleam in her eyes and he fought back a groan, there was always a price to pay. Not that in usual circumstances he wouldn't have been more than willing.

She laughed slightly as she said. "Now Jed, you can take that look off your face. What I have in mind isn't going to hurt you at all. All you'll need to do is lie back and enjoy yourself. Lets just call it another form of restitution."

She placed the tickets back behind her, before standing and beginning to remove her clothing as he lay back, slightly apprehensive, but more than a little curious.

She climbed onto the bed, and to Jed's relief was very careful not to jolt it and gently knelt between his legs and he didn't pay his bruises much mind for sometime after.

ASJ

Kid turned to look at his friend as he humphed for perhaps the third time in ten minutes. "Heyes, will you just say what you're thinkin'? Ain't like you to be this backward 'bout what's botherin' you."

"Easy money you said. Real classy lady. Don't seem like that, when I turn up and my partner looks like he got caught in a stampede." Kid sighed and wished he hadn't asked.

"It ain't like that, Heyes." Although it was kinda like that, if he were being totally honest, but it was hardly Rebecca's fault.

"You gonna enlighten me what it is exactly like then?" Heyes had his hands on his hips and his chest out, which was definitely a bad sign. "Only reason I don't flatten you is because it wouldn't be a far fight! But don't think I ain't considerin' it."

"Keep dreamin' Heyes! It ain't nothin' I can't handle."

"Dammit, Kid! You gotta be the most stubborn ass...Only you Kid, only you."

His own temper flared at the superior tone in his partner's voice, but then Kid saw the very real concern in his eyes and felt most of his anger drain away.

He flopped down to sit on the bed and sighed heavily. "It ain't never straight forward, Heyes, you know that." He smiled as he remembered something and dug into his pants pocket. "It does have its compensations though Heyes." He felt a grin break out at the expression that crossed his friend's face. "Beyond the obvious, I mean." He produced the two tickets Mrs Barton had given him with a flourish, making sure Heyes saw them clearly. "Happy Birthday! Bit better than that book you wanted."

Heyes practically snatched the tickets out of his hand and grinned as he studied them. "This ain't over, Kid. But I guess it can wait till tomorrow."

ASJ

At the next scheduling meeting he was fit for, as he entered, Rebecca met him at the door and studied his face in some concern. "Rosemary said you'd been ill. Nothing serious I hope?"

Curry smiled, somehow Rosemary didn't exactly fit Mrs Barton, but it was interesting to finally know her first name. "No Ma'am nothin' too serious and I'm fully recovered now." It was mostly true, aside from the slightest pull if he moved too quickly and even that was far better than it had been just a couple of days ago.

She put a hand on his arm and said softly. "You sure there's nothing that I can help with, Thaddeus?"

Curry shook his head, but was touched by her concern and wondered what she suspected. "

"No, Ma'am, everything's fine." He paused, then added. "At the moment anyways. We might have something to talk about later, but presently, everythin' is all right."

There were a couple of different faces round the table, but as their expressions were much the same as he'd come to expect, he didn't feel any particular concern at the changes.

ASJ

The next two weeks passed without incident and Kid was starting to feel confident that everything would work out, but one evening, he sensed someone following him again. He glanced behind and saw that at least this time, there was just the two and they certainly didn't seem as competent as the last bunch.

He sighed, not prepared to put up with whatever they were hoping he would. He crossed over to the opposite of the street, then ducked down one of the small alleyways. Hiding in the shadows, he heard hurried footsteps that slowed as they came to the mouth of the alley.

He stuck his arm out and hit the man on the head with his gun, before ducking back as a second step of footsteps came close.

He reached out to grab the man as he passed and shoved him hard against the wall, holding his gun to his neck as he hissed. "Your boss needs to hire better people. I ain't stupid whatever he might think. Now tell me why you're following me and I might not shoot ya." The man looked wildly round and his eyes fell on the man lying unmoving on the ground at Kid's feet "He ain't dead, yet!" Curry had no intention of killing either of them, but this idiot didn't need to know that. "The Captain just wanted to talk to you."

Curry snorted. "Ain't too fond of your Captain's idea of talkin'. Besides, he could just have waited 'til tomorrow."

The man had gone ashen and blinked rapidly. "Guess that's part of what he wanted to talk about."

Kid yanked the man's head back and said grimly. "I'll bet it was." He knew what he was doing was likely buying trouble, but he'd think about that later, because right about now he didn't really care. "Tell your Boss, whatever he wants to say can wait. Or if you don't make it back before mornin', I'll tell him myself."

With that he shoved the man against the wall, face first and tied his hands with his belt, before giving his head a crack, hard enough to make it spin, but not hard enough to knock him out and pushed him down so he was sitting back against the wall. He checked the man on the ground was breathing and rolled him onto his side before leaving the alley without looking back.

He undressed and lay down on his bed and considered his next move. Calhoun would not be impressed and Kid didn't doubt he'd retaliate in a way that would be very painful. It was probably time for him to move on. He'd have to contact Heyes as well as Rebecca.

A loud knocking on the door brought him out of a deep sleep and he grabbed his gun from the bedpost. He swung the door open, gun in hand and was somewhat surprised to see a breathless Heyes grinning at him. He wasn't expecting his partner till Friday. Before he could say anything Heyes was pushing him back into the room brandishing a piece of paper. "I ain't ever gonna complain about you not thinking stuff through again. Well least not till the next time you end up neck deep in trouble."

Kid rubbed his face, still not fully awake and stared at his friend before saying angrily.

"Heyes, what the hell are you talkin' about?"

"What do you think I'm talking about, you idiot? Amnesty! Some ladies called Poindexter and Barton got their husband's to threaten to invest elsewhere, if the Governor didn't get his head out of his ass and give you amnesty. Now, I don't know them and ain't never met them, but I'm guessing you have." He grinned at whatever expression he saw on Kid's face as he added. "And I'm figuring from that look on your face, you know them both in the biblical sense." Heyes handed the paper over to Curry who sat down on his bed in a daze and read with dawning amazement. "Well, Kid, ain't you gonna say something? You look like one of them ugly fish that swim in the Colorado river!"

Kid still reading his ticket to freedom whooped loudly. "I gotta find some way of thankin' them." He looked up at Heyes' throaty chuckle. "Heyes! I ain't meanin' that." Though as he thought about it, there was some merit to the idea. He pushed the idea down as wildly inappropriate but it must have shown on his face as Heyes' chuckle turned into a full blown laugh. His face also took on a slightly wistful expression as he said. "I can tell you're thinking about it."

"Maybe, but thinkin' is as far as it goes. Look, Heyes, I ain't exactly sure I want to admit this, but I guess I'd better. There's trouble comin'."

Heyes laughed again, before his face turned serious, but his eyes were excited. "Ain't there always?"

Kid shrugged and laughed as he looked again at the document that had just given him a future that might mean a little less danger. "I just didn't want to take another beatin' Heyes."

His partner sat down beside him on the bed and patted him on the shoulder. "Look, we both got money, lets just find somewhere else to stay and use different names, till we can get outta here."

Curry saw the wisdom of that and smiled. "I'd kinda like to stay till Sunday."

Heyes grinned at him and nodded. "Now get packed up and we can get outta here." Curry looked round his small living area and realised there really wasn't really anything he couldn't do without.

"Just need my gun and my coat, think that's it. Ain't really keen on seein' a duster for a while." His look dared to Heyes to say a word who took the hint and simply shrugged. "Ain't gonna ask."

ASJ

Kid arrived at the hotel on Sunday with Heyes and wasn't surprised to see only Rebecca and Mrs Barton waiting for him. He figured they'd found a way of getting the word out. He was a little sorry not to see Viola there, but shrugged the disappointment off as the women came over to greet him.

Mrs Barton gave him a smile and quickly drew Heyes into a conversation about books, which left Kid and Rebecca eyeing each other a little awkwardly. Kid broke the silence between them. "When did you know?"

"Not till Rosemary told me, when she said you were sick and explained why. We knew they wouldn't stick at ten percent."

Kid stared at her, imprinting her on his memory. "Another time and place..."

Rebecca smiled at him sadly, "I'll miss you, Thad-Jed. My husband is not exactly a bad man, but we don't have much left between us. I had fun." She pulled him into a tight hug then stood back to study him for a few moments, before wiping her eyes quickly and turning away to head down the stairs.

Kid watched her go, before his attention was drawn by a gently cleared throat. Mrs Barton and Heyes were watching him with almost identical looks of sympathy. He had no idea what to say to the woman who had gifted him his freedom. Rarely not knowing the right thing to do she laughed and put her hands on his forearms before leaning in to his ear and whispering. "Think I know how you got so good at following instruction." Curry laughed as she leaned away briefly, before pulling him into a hug. "Good luck in your new life, Jed."

She let him go then and without a look back hurried down the stairs. Heyes watched her go with an admiring expression on his face, before turning to face his partner. "What do you want to do next?"

Curry shrugged, not exactly certain, except he wanted time away from a city. "I ain't sure Heyes, but you won't be too upset if I don't go to Cheyenne with you? You're gonna laugh, but I think I wanna travel for a bit. Shake the city out from under my feet."

Heyes looked at him and patted his shoulder. "Fancy some company?"

Kid felt a stab of surprise, but also a warmth in his stomach. "What about your life in Cheyenne, that job of yours. I thought you were happy there."

Heyes looked down suddenly embarrassed. "Well, the bank manager's daughter is making marrying noises and I ain't ready for that. 'Sides I'm getting slightly itchy feet too." He laughed, "Who'd thunk it? All those years craving somewhere to settle and the first thing we do when we get amnesty is go traveling."

Curry grinned at him and slapped him on the shoulder as he said. "Well, ain't gonna be the same is it? We got real choices now and don't that just feel grand?"

They walked down the stairs and out onto the street together. As they stood surveying the early evening activity, Jed couldn't believe just how much fresher everything felt to him.

A New Beginning