Josie rose with the sun, excitement bubbling up as she thought of the many
tasks ahead of her that day. She planned inspecting every inch of her
saloon. Her saloon, she thought as she hugged herself. Josie McCloud,
proprietor. Lord, but that had a nice ring to it.
Josie thought carefully about what she should wear, finally deciding on a lavender day dress. Nothing overtly fancy, but the color set off her eyes famously. Oh, Josie knew she was pleasing to the eye, and she also knew how to work that to her advantage. She figured she still had five out of seven dragons to slay, though she wasn't all that concerned with Nathan and Josiah since they presently weren't around. Anyway, she'd known from the beginning that Chris, Vin, and Ezra would be the challenges. And she also knew if she could get Vin to trust her, Chris would follow, so confident was he of Vin's judgment. And if Chris accepted her, the rest would follow suit.
Josie went down the stairs to begin her inspection. There were four bedrooms. Josie assumed that once they had been used for prostitution, Four Corners own little den of antiquity, That seemed to no longer be the case because three were in use, one by Ezra, one by Josie, herself, and one by Inez, the woman Maude had hired to run the saloon. Josie was glad she didn't have any working girls to deal with. Though she had nothing against them personally, they were just women trying to survive in the harsh environment of the west; she really found the practice of prostitution offensive. She didn't want it in her saloon.
Inez made her appearance as Josie was rummaging around behind the bar, taking a count of the liquor so she could order new stock if needed.
"You must be the new owner," Inez stated, as she watched Josie inspecting the liquor.
Josie jumped in surprise, hitting her head on the bar top. "Bloody hell," she cursed, sitting on the floor, rubbing her head.
"Everything is there. I allow no stealing in this saloon," Inez declared harshly.
"Of course everything is." Josie looking up to see a beautiful Mexican woman standing before her. "You must be Inez. I'm Josie. I didn't fathom that someone would be stealing liquor. Do you keep a log of what needs to be reordered? I thought I would take care of that today, but I couldn't find anything on paper."
"That's because Jim, the bar-keep, can't read or write. He gives me a full account and I store it in my head," Inez replied and though Josie had the distinct impression that neither could Inez, she refrained from commenting on it.
"Excellent. If you don't mind listing it off for me." Josie sat down at the bar, pencil and paper in hand. "I need to write everything down. I tend to be forgetful," she whispered in confidence.
As Josie marked down everything Inez rattled off, the two women accessed each other.
"I guess you'll be wanting me to pack my bags," Inez finally said, stating what had been on her mind since she'd heard Maude had sold the saloon. She didn't want to leave Four Corners, or the Standish Saloon. They had quickly become her home. But she knew how white women were, especially beautiful white women. They didn't want the attention taken off them, particularly by an attractive Mexican woman.
Josie looked up from her writing, astonished. "Now why ever would I want you to leave?" she asked. "I will most assuredly be needing your services. I can't be in this saloon every moment of the day and night. And even if Mr. Standish accepts my proposal, I'm certain his obligations to this town will keep him fairly busy. You appear to have done an excellent job for Maude." Then Josie smiled. "And Maude mentioned you prepare marvelous Mexican cuisine that I am anxious to taste." Josie paused a moment, suddenly considering another alternative. "That is if you are willing to stay on. I would understand if you have any reservations about working for either Mr. Standish or myself."
Inez smiled. "I'm not quite sure what that last thing was you said, but I would love to stay on." Inez got up and started to head for the back of the saloon where the kitchens were located when she paused. "Josie?"
"Hmm?" Josie replied, once again engrossed in her figures.
"Are you by chance related to Maude and Ezra?"
Josie glanced up, once again surprised by Inez. "No, why ever do you ask?"
"Even though the accent is different, you talk just like them." Then she disappeared into the kitchens.
Josie laughed. "It's called pretension," Josie said to herself.
"That was right nice what you did for Inez," a voice said from behind her.
Josie turned to find Vin leaning in the doorway of the saloon.
"Nice has nothing to do with it. I am a businesswoman first and foremost. I would be a fool to let Inez get away. And believe me, a fool I am not." Josie stood from the table, coffee cup in hand. "Would you care for some?" she asked, holding her cup forward to indicate coffee.
"No thanks. I need to head out in a minute. I was just checking to see if Chris was here yet."
"No, I haven't seen Mr. Larabee this morning, but I if do, I'll be sure to inform him that you need to speak to him."
"I'd be obliged." Vin tipped his hat then turned to leave.
"Oh Vin, one last thing. Do you have any idea what time Mr. Standish usually awakens?"
Vin turned back to Josie and smiled. "I'd say 'about noon, though after the surprise you laid on him, I'd guess he should be up anytime now."
"Thank you," Josie stated with a nod, then she headed for the kitchen.
Vin watched her until she was out of sight before heading out.
As Vin predicted, Ezra came down 20 minutes later. Josie looked up from the second list she had started when she heard Ezra's door open. After inspecting the entire building, she'd sat back down, listing every repair that needed to be done, and the few things she wanted to change.
"Why Miss McCloud, you're just the person I wish to parlez with," Ezra called as he walked down the stairs.
"Good morning, Mr. Standish. I assume you have an answer to my proposal." Josie picked up her coffee cup and took a sip of the hot beverage as she waited for his reply.
"I believe I do, but I would appreciate going over the details before I either deny or confirm your generous offer," Ezra stated as he poured himself a cup of coffee then sat down beside Josie.
"That is reasonable enough. I am offering you 35% of the Standish Tavern, which you can acquire as you do the needed funds. I myself will own 50% while Jesse will retain 15%. I know you have other obligations so I have asked Inez to stay on as a manager of sorts. Though I would prefer at least one of us to be present during business hours, I also comprehend that might not always be possible." Josie paused as she looked at Ezra, trying to judge his reaction. "So what is you answer?"
"I accept," Ezra stated, holding out his hand.
"Excellent," Josie declared, shaking his outstretched hand. "I have started a list of items I intend to change and repairs that need to be done. I could use your assistance in finding someone to hire to do the repairs."
"May I see your list?" Ezra asked. Josie handed it to him and waited for Ezra to skim over it. He only got to number two before voicing protest. "My dear, this is a drinking establishment, not a restaurant. We have no need for sustenance."
"Well, Mr. Standish, I do not concur. It will be of little expense to purchase the ingredients and of no cost to have Inez prepare it. But we will make a sizable profit off those gentlemen who chose to ingest it," Josie stated, standing and looking down her nose at Ezra. As he stood, also, she grabbed the list and yanked only to find Ezra didn't want to relinquish it.
Suddenly a chuckle that could only belong to Buck boomed across the room. Josie quickly realized just how comical she and Ezra must appear, standing about nose to nose, playing tug of war over a piece of paper. Knowing she would win their verbal battle, she let Ezra win the physical one. She let go of the paper and turned to find Buck, JD, and Chris standing behind them.
"I swear, Miss McCloud, you and Ezra almost pass for brother and sister," Buck commented, amused at the scene before him. Ezra, usually the calm one of the group, rarely ever appeared ruffled. But at the moment he was mighty irritated. Both were flushed, their eyes glittering with indignation.
"I am afraid it appears that Mr. Standish and I are quite alike in some respects," Josie agreed, flashing Ezra the last remnant of her irritation in one look. "And I have to say you gentlemen are very good at sneaking up on an individual. This is the second time today I've been caught unaware by one of this town's peacekeepers. Chris, Mr. Tanner was in here earlier looking for you. I believe he needs to speak to you in regards to a particular issue," Josie said as she looked directly at Chris. "He seemed rather anxious." Chris nodded in acknowledgment. "Now can I interest you gentlemen in some coffee and whatever divine offerings Inez is cooking for breakfast?" Buck and JD instantly agreed with nods and helped themselves to some coffee before sitting at a table.
"Thanks for the offer, but I need to get moving," Chris replied, but before he could turn to leave, Josie had him by the arm.
"Now Chris Larabee, you of all people should eat a wholesome breakfast before going out to conquer the world. What kind of example are you setting for the others?" And before Chris realized it, Josie had maneuvered him to the table and much to the amazement of JD, Buck, and Ezra, Chris sat down. "I'll get you a cup of coffee and have Inez serve the food," she said as she unconsciously patted Chris's shoulder before moving away from him.
None of the men commented on the fact that Chris was actually sitting at the table eating breakfast with them, which was a rare occasion indeed. If Chris did eat in the morning, it had to be with Vin, because he certainly didn't do it with them.
"Miss Josie, did I hear you mention something about some odd jobs that needed to be done around the place?" Buck asked once Josie was seated with them.
"There are some minor repairs that I would like to have completed around here," Josie answered, curious as to why Buck would be inquiring.
"If that is your list," Buck said, pointing to the piece of paper beside Ezra's plate, "I would be more'n happy to look it over for you and see if I can be of any help."
"Buck, that would be marvelous." Josie gave Ezra look of warning as she reached across the table for the list. Chris noticed and tried to cover up his smile. She handed Buck the paper. "I would be willing to pay $2.50 per job or $5.00 in credit here at the saloon."
"That's grand larceny!" Ezra exclaimed.
"Do you plan on being miserly with everyone, or just your friends? " Josie asked as she placed her hands flat on the table, ready to pop out of her seat at any moment. "Right now it doesn't matter since it is my money, but I'd like to know for future reference."
"There is a difference, Miss McCloud, between being penurious and fiscally intelligent. I happen to fall into the later category," Ezra retorted, thinking he'd put Josie in her place.
"Huh?" JD asked. "Josie, I'm sure glad you can understand what Ezra's saying. Half the time, I don't even think he's speaking English."
"JD, Ezra thinks using large words makes him superior to others. But a truly superior individual doesn't need to make another feel inferior, to do so only makes one appear condescending and egotistical." Josie looked pointedly as Ezra then she turned to Buck. "So are you interested?"
"Sure am," Buck replied, a huge grin encompassing his face. He found Josie and Ezra to be vastly entertaining. "And I'm sure for the credit Vin, Josiah, and Nathan will help. What about you, Chris?"
Chris glanced at Josie. Here was a perfect opportunity to keep an eye on her, plus she might reveal something unintentionally. "Sure."
JD didn't even have to be asked. He'd been nodding since Josie had mentioned payment in form of liquor and food.
"Just feel free to come and go as you please. And if you need anything to eat or drink while you are working, just ask Inez." Josie looked down at the watch pinned to her dress. "If you would excuse me, I need to send a telegram to my cousin, informing her of my safe arrival." Josie stood, as did the four men at the table. "By the way, I would appreciate it, Mr. Standish, if you would refrain from speaking to me as you have this morning in front of our patrons. Your family is one thing," she said, indicating to the men sitting beside him, "but I think we should convey a united front to our customers." And before Ezra could reply, Josie was gone.
"Lord, she is one hell of a woman," Ezra declared with a grin. As much as she infuriated him, he also admired her tenacity. "Things will certainly be interesting with Miss McCloud around." And Chris couldn't have agreed more.
It was around mid-day when Josie finally realized Chris and Vin were keeping tabs on her. Having been on the other end of that observation more times then she could count, Josie recognized all the signs. If she hadn't been so busy getting to know the layout of the saloon and then the town, she would have noticed sooner. She chuckled to herself. That was fine. It was actually to her advantage. They would get to know her sooner that way. The Josie could go about running her saloon in peace. Or at least relative peace, what with Ezra agreeing to the partnership and that being were the agreement had ended. Oh- all in good time.
"'Suse me." Josie felt a tug at her skirts. "Are you the new saloon owner woman?"
Josie looked down to see an adorable little boy of about eight starring up at her with the biggest brown eyes, eyes filled with wonder.
"Yes, I am. My name is Josie McCloud. And who would you be?" Josie bent down and held out her hand to the little boy.
"I'm.." he began but was interrupted by a very pretty, petite blond.
"Billy," she called sternly as she approached.
Josie immediately stepped away from the boy, knowing how townswomen reacted to her. The last thing she wanted was trouble on her second day in town.
"Mary, this is the young lady I was telling you about," Chris said, appearing from out of nowhere. He placed his hands on the blonde's shoulders and steered her gently towards Josie.
"Oh- how do you do?" Mary asked, holding her hand out in greeting. "I'm Mary Travis, and this is my son, Billy." Josie was taken back by her genuine friendly smile. Mary was different from the others.
Josie gave a moments contemplation. Oh yes, Mary Travis- a widow and the owner of The Clarion, the town's local paper.
"Chris tells me you've purchased the saloon from Maude." Mary glanced at Chris, still awkwardly holding her hand out to Josie.
"Oh Lord, I've done it again, haven't I? You people will start thinking I've lost my mind." Josie smiled and grasped Mary's hand. "I'm Josie McCloud. You'll have to excuse me. My mind sometimes..."
"Wanders," Vin interrupted with a grin from behind Josie.
Buck and JD were right on his heels. It seemed the troops were rallying, but for herself or Mary Travis, Josie wasn't sure.
"Yes, that it does. I only wish I could say I am concentrating on the new town and the saloon, but you will soon discover my lapse in concentration occurs on all occasions," Josie confessed with an impish grin. Jesse accused her of being a daydreamer. Josie just liked to make sure things went as smoothly as possible. And that took serious planning at times, like the present.
Mary smiled in return. "When I'm caught up in a story, I have a tendency to do the same thing."
"Have you ever left the house without your shoes on?" Josie asked, genuinely intrigued to find someone with the same affliction.
Mary nodded, her cheeks rosy from admitting to something so embarrassing.
Josie's grin spread even wider. "And here I thought I was the only one."
Mary laughed, linking her arm with Josie's, the two instant friends, as they progressed down the boardwalk together with Billy following.
The four men watched the two ladies continue until they'd reached The Clarion and proceeded inside; JD in awe, Vin with an amused grin, Chris speculative, while Buck chuckled openly.
Chris should have been surprised that Josie had taken in Mary so quickly, but he wasn't. Buck and JD had already fallen under her spell. Hell, she'd even managed to charm Ezra. And if he weren't careful, this one would be crawling under his skin, causing him to take responsibility for one more person's safety.
The only one who seemed immune to both her beauty and charm was Vin. But then his very life depended on whom he trusted and whom he didn't. Being a wanted man for so long had caused Vin to judge people harshly, but once you earned his trust, you had it for life. Of- there was no doubt about it. Josie McCloud was trouble, one way or the other.
Chris mentioned as much to Vin when they were alone inside the jail. Josie was presently with Mary at the Clarion. So Chris and Vin had a short break from their vigil. Chris paced the room while Vin sat at the desk.
It had been a long time since anyone had gotten to Chris like this, who was able to scale the walls he'd erected. Even Mary couldn't get past them. Chris confided this to Vin who was as surprised as Chris himself.
"Are you saying what I think you're saying?" Vin asked, caught off guard. "I'd just always thought you and Mary..." He let his sentence trail off, thinking now might not be the best time to bring up his conclusions about Chris's feelings for Mary.
"No, nothing like that," Chris replied, wondering just how much Vin suspected concerning his feelings toward Mary. "I just see Josie sucking everyone in- first Buck and JD, then Ezra, and now Mary. Josiah and Nathan don't stand a chance. Hell, even I'm beginning to feel her pull on me. You're the only one who doesn't seem effected by her. If we don't learn the truth soon, I fear it might be too late," Chris explained solemnly.
"You're not the only one slipping," Vin said softly.
"I never would have guessed."
Vin shrugged. "Well, either she's absolutely harmless or she's a damn good liar." Chris nodded in agreement. "I say we give it to the end of the week. If either of us still have doubts, I'll wire the Judge and Rock Creek. We ought to discover something about Jesse or Josie McCloud that way."
"I think that's a sound plan," Chris agreed when out of the corner of his eye, he saw a flash of red go by the jailhouse window. "I think she's on the move."
"Why don't I stick with her this evening?" Vin suggested, concerned about what Chris had confided. The six men following Chris Larabee had all been concerned with the way Chris shut himself off from life and most of the people around him. Vin would really hate to see him opening up, only to have Josie McCloud stab him in the back. It would not only devastate Chris, but also probably send him to a place where he'd be impossible to reach again.
Josie sat with Mary in the office of the Clarion, chatting like old friends. Josie discovered Mary was a widow, her husband having been murdered several years back. Her father-in-law, the circuit judge, was the one who had hired the seven to clean up Four Corners. Josie also learned, though Mary wasn't aware she'd revealed it, that Mary held tender feeling for Chris Larabee. The same look came over the faces of her cousins, Louise and Theresa, when they talked about their husbands.
"Please don't think me rude, but you seem rather young to be on your own," Mary stated, thinking there must be a story involved.
"It's actually a McCloud family trait," Josie replied.
"What ever do you mean?" Mary asked, her curiosity peaked.
"My Da had always wanted to go to America. He thought he would make his fortune here. Aunt ? , Da's younger sister, had left Ireland when she was fifteen and seemed to have done well for herself. But my Mum didn't want to leave Ireland. She passed on when I was five. The memories became too painful for Da, and so we packed what little we owned and left Ireland. When Da was killed in a mining accident when I was eleven, Jesse and I were shipped off to an orphanage."
"How awful. Weren't there any family members that could take the two of you in? Where was your Aunt?" Mary asked, knowing that without Orin and his wife, she would have been lost when Stephen died.
"Da had lost track of Aunt ?, and our cousins, Louise, Theresa, and Jeremiah before I was born; and we didn't have a clue where they might be. Jesse decided we should go looking for them. And so we ran away from the orphanage two months after we had arrived. Jesse, who will read written on paper, found one of those dime novels about the Pony Express. It mentioned a Lou McCloud, and so we went in search of Lou in hopes that he might be able to help us find Louise. Instead we found Louise herself."
"I'm afraid I don't understand."
"My aunt had died when Jeremy was just a baby; and Louise, Resa, and Jeremy had ended up in an orphanage also. Lou eventually ran away, pretended to be a boy, and got a job riding for the Pony Express," Josie explained proudly.
"Amazing! Was she ever discovered?" Mary asked, filled with admiration for the young Louise McCloud.
"Yes, but not before she'd proven her worth." Josie paused and smiled, thinking of all the stories she'd heard over the years about Lou's adventures with the Pony Express. "Lou eventually married one of her fellow riders. Right before the war, five of them invested in some land outside of Rock Creek. Kid, Lou, and Buck worked the ranch, while Cody and Jimmy joined up with the army as scouts. "
Mary noticed Josie's smile fade as if she'd encountered an unpleasant memory, but the moment passed so quickly, she didn't comment on it.
"Lou finally had a home and she was able to bring Resa and Jeremy to live with her. That's where Jesse and I found the Lou McCloud of the Pony Express. By then, Resa had married Buck and they were raising Buck's three younger brothers." Josie paused a moment, trying to decide the best way to explain the hooligans Buck acknowledged as his brothers. "Well, they aren't actually Buck's brothers, at least not in the sense most whites think. They are from the same tribe."
"Tribe?" Mary questioned, surprised.
"Yes. Buck is half Kiowa. So are Colt, Slade, and Shane. Over the years, Buck and Theresa have taken in several of the parentless children from Buck's tribe. Jesse and I were just two of the many homeless urchins at the ranch."
"That is an amazing story. You and Jesse were incredibly lucky to have found Louise. Did you live at the ranch after you found Louise?" Mary asked, leaning forward in her chair.
"For the most part," Josie stated, glancing around the room.
Mary noticed that suddenly Josie had become evasive after being so open about her life. Josie looked uncomfortable, as if she was ready to bolt.
"You must be very proud of her," Mary commented, trying to make Josie feel more comfortable.
Josie smiled broadly. "Yes, I am." She glanced down at her watch. "Goodness, I didn't realize it was so late. Mary, I need to get back to the saloon," Josie said as she stood. "That is if it's still standing. I wouldn't put it past Ezra to give everything away just to spite me."
"Encountering problems with Ezra?" Mary asked as she walked Josie to the door.
"Oh, nothing I can't handle," Josie said with an impish grin. "Ezra will eventually learn that I am always right and he is always wrong. It just might take some time." And with a laugh and a wave, Josie was gone.
Right after Josie walked into the saloon, Vin appeared and Josie knew he had seen her pass the jail. She was surprised neither Chris nor Vin had shown up while she was at the Clarion to make sure she hadn't harmed Mary. At that thought, Josie smiled to herself. They probably didn't think a woman was capable.
"Care to join me?" Josie asked as she approached Vin with two beers.
"Sure thing," Vin said as he followed Josie to a table. Once they were both seated, Josie handed Vin one of the beers. "Now Josie, you don't need to be giving me free drinks. I can pay for them."
Josie waved his statement away. "You are practically Ezra's family. And anyway, I fully intend on getting my money's worth out of you sometime."
"How so?" Vin asked, leaning back and eyeing Josie curiously.
Josie shrugged as she replied," At present, I don't know. But I'm certain at some point in the near future I will need your help for something, for example, breaking up an altercation here." Josie motioned around the room with her hand.
"Buck did mention you needin' work done around here," Vin stated, looking around the saloon.
"There, you see. Just call that beverage a teaser so I can get some manual labor out of you," Josie said with a smile. "I certainly don't see Ezra lifting a finger to help get this establishment repaired. I'm going to need all the help I can get."
Vin tried to stop himself from laughing, but the thought of Ezra actually getting dirty was too amusing to suppress.
"Speakin' of Ezra," Vin began once he'd contained himself, "he wanted me to let you know Chris sent him to Eagle Bend. He probably won't be back until tomorrow, and he asked me to keep an eye on the place."
"I would very much enjoy having your company this evening. It will certainly be less confrontational with Ezra gone. I suppose Buck told you about this morning." Vin's grin was answer enough. "That's what I'd assumed."
"Wish I could have seen it," Vin said as he laughed softly.
"Oh, never fear. I'm quite sure that wasn't the last argument between Ezra and myself. I would guess they will occur daily until Ezra realizes he just can't possible win," Josie said with a mischievous grin. Then they both had a good laugh at Ezra's expense.
"Hey Vin, Josie," JD greeted, tipping his hat to Josie as he joined them. ""Since Ezra's gone, I thought you might be interested in a game of cards."
"I might," Vin replied, considering JD's offer.
JD nodded. "I thought I'd get Chris and Buck to join us."
"Count me in. What about you, Josie?" Vin asked as he turned to her.
"But she's a girl," JD stammered.
"Yes, a girl that can outdrink and outplay you," Josie declared indignantly.
"That sounds like a challenge to me, Kid," Buck said as he slapped JD on the back and winked at Josie.
"You're on," JD said, accepting what he thought was a challenge he couldn't possibly lose.
"That don't sound like such a good idea to me. What do you think, Chris?" Vin asked, turning to Chris who had come in with Buck and was standing behind him.
Before Chris could reply, Josie stated, "Never fear, I promise not to inflict any serious damage. So JD, what's your drink of choice?"
JD paused for a minute, then smiled as he said, "Whiskey," thinking it would be too strong a beverage for a girl. But JD's smile faded by the satisfied smirk on Josie's face.
"Whiskey it is." Then she turned to Inez, who was behind the bar, and called, "Whiskey, and if you would be so kind as to keep it coming. Shall we begin?" Josie asked as she motioned to the table she and Vin were already sitting at and pulled a deck of cards out of her pocket. She began shuffling them as Buck poured the whiskey.
Chris nodded to Vin as he sat next to him. Chris thought he saw a perfect opportunity. He'd seen big men bare all after an evening of whiskey. How long could it take for a little thing like Josie to fall under its effects? The next morning he discovered just how long.
By the end of the evening, Josie had won all of their money; JD had passed out in a corner; and Buck had staggered into the storeroom, where he'd fallen asleep on a sack of flour. Josie, Vin, and Chris were still able to stand, barely. Chris woke the next morning wishing he was dead and swearing to God that he would never do it again, if only the pounding in his head would go away. Josie might have told Chris everything he'd wanted to know, but he couldn't remember a thing after the first hour. He hoped if Josie had said anything, Vin was aware of it.
Josie thought carefully about what she should wear, finally deciding on a lavender day dress. Nothing overtly fancy, but the color set off her eyes famously. Oh, Josie knew she was pleasing to the eye, and she also knew how to work that to her advantage. She figured she still had five out of seven dragons to slay, though she wasn't all that concerned with Nathan and Josiah since they presently weren't around. Anyway, she'd known from the beginning that Chris, Vin, and Ezra would be the challenges. And she also knew if she could get Vin to trust her, Chris would follow, so confident was he of Vin's judgment. And if Chris accepted her, the rest would follow suit.
Josie went down the stairs to begin her inspection. There were four bedrooms. Josie assumed that once they had been used for prostitution, Four Corners own little den of antiquity, That seemed to no longer be the case because three were in use, one by Ezra, one by Josie, herself, and one by Inez, the woman Maude had hired to run the saloon. Josie was glad she didn't have any working girls to deal with. Though she had nothing against them personally, they were just women trying to survive in the harsh environment of the west; she really found the practice of prostitution offensive. She didn't want it in her saloon.
Inez made her appearance as Josie was rummaging around behind the bar, taking a count of the liquor so she could order new stock if needed.
"You must be the new owner," Inez stated, as she watched Josie inspecting the liquor.
Josie jumped in surprise, hitting her head on the bar top. "Bloody hell," she cursed, sitting on the floor, rubbing her head.
"Everything is there. I allow no stealing in this saloon," Inez declared harshly.
"Of course everything is." Josie looking up to see a beautiful Mexican woman standing before her. "You must be Inez. I'm Josie. I didn't fathom that someone would be stealing liquor. Do you keep a log of what needs to be reordered? I thought I would take care of that today, but I couldn't find anything on paper."
"That's because Jim, the bar-keep, can't read or write. He gives me a full account and I store it in my head," Inez replied and though Josie had the distinct impression that neither could Inez, she refrained from commenting on it.
"Excellent. If you don't mind listing it off for me." Josie sat down at the bar, pencil and paper in hand. "I need to write everything down. I tend to be forgetful," she whispered in confidence.
As Josie marked down everything Inez rattled off, the two women accessed each other.
"I guess you'll be wanting me to pack my bags," Inez finally said, stating what had been on her mind since she'd heard Maude had sold the saloon. She didn't want to leave Four Corners, or the Standish Saloon. They had quickly become her home. But she knew how white women were, especially beautiful white women. They didn't want the attention taken off them, particularly by an attractive Mexican woman.
Josie looked up from her writing, astonished. "Now why ever would I want you to leave?" she asked. "I will most assuredly be needing your services. I can't be in this saloon every moment of the day and night. And even if Mr. Standish accepts my proposal, I'm certain his obligations to this town will keep him fairly busy. You appear to have done an excellent job for Maude." Then Josie smiled. "And Maude mentioned you prepare marvelous Mexican cuisine that I am anxious to taste." Josie paused a moment, suddenly considering another alternative. "That is if you are willing to stay on. I would understand if you have any reservations about working for either Mr. Standish or myself."
Inez smiled. "I'm not quite sure what that last thing was you said, but I would love to stay on." Inez got up and started to head for the back of the saloon where the kitchens were located when she paused. "Josie?"
"Hmm?" Josie replied, once again engrossed in her figures.
"Are you by chance related to Maude and Ezra?"
Josie glanced up, once again surprised by Inez. "No, why ever do you ask?"
"Even though the accent is different, you talk just like them." Then she disappeared into the kitchens.
Josie laughed. "It's called pretension," Josie said to herself.
"That was right nice what you did for Inez," a voice said from behind her.
Josie turned to find Vin leaning in the doorway of the saloon.
"Nice has nothing to do with it. I am a businesswoman first and foremost. I would be a fool to let Inez get away. And believe me, a fool I am not." Josie stood from the table, coffee cup in hand. "Would you care for some?" she asked, holding her cup forward to indicate coffee.
"No thanks. I need to head out in a minute. I was just checking to see if Chris was here yet."
"No, I haven't seen Mr. Larabee this morning, but I if do, I'll be sure to inform him that you need to speak to him."
"I'd be obliged." Vin tipped his hat then turned to leave.
"Oh Vin, one last thing. Do you have any idea what time Mr. Standish usually awakens?"
Vin turned back to Josie and smiled. "I'd say 'about noon, though after the surprise you laid on him, I'd guess he should be up anytime now."
"Thank you," Josie stated with a nod, then she headed for the kitchen.
Vin watched her until she was out of sight before heading out.
As Vin predicted, Ezra came down 20 minutes later. Josie looked up from the second list she had started when she heard Ezra's door open. After inspecting the entire building, she'd sat back down, listing every repair that needed to be done, and the few things she wanted to change.
"Why Miss McCloud, you're just the person I wish to parlez with," Ezra called as he walked down the stairs.
"Good morning, Mr. Standish. I assume you have an answer to my proposal." Josie picked up her coffee cup and took a sip of the hot beverage as she waited for his reply.
"I believe I do, but I would appreciate going over the details before I either deny or confirm your generous offer," Ezra stated as he poured himself a cup of coffee then sat down beside Josie.
"That is reasonable enough. I am offering you 35% of the Standish Tavern, which you can acquire as you do the needed funds. I myself will own 50% while Jesse will retain 15%. I know you have other obligations so I have asked Inez to stay on as a manager of sorts. Though I would prefer at least one of us to be present during business hours, I also comprehend that might not always be possible." Josie paused as she looked at Ezra, trying to judge his reaction. "So what is you answer?"
"I accept," Ezra stated, holding out his hand.
"Excellent," Josie declared, shaking his outstretched hand. "I have started a list of items I intend to change and repairs that need to be done. I could use your assistance in finding someone to hire to do the repairs."
"May I see your list?" Ezra asked. Josie handed it to him and waited for Ezra to skim over it. He only got to number two before voicing protest. "My dear, this is a drinking establishment, not a restaurant. We have no need for sustenance."
"Well, Mr. Standish, I do not concur. It will be of little expense to purchase the ingredients and of no cost to have Inez prepare it. But we will make a sizable profit off those gentlemen who chose to ingest it," Josie stated, standing and looking down her nose at Ezra. As he stood, also, she grabbed the list and yanked only to find Ezra didn't want to relinquish it.
Suddenly a chuckle that could only belong to Buck boomed across the room. Josie quickly realized just how comical she and Ezra must appear, standing about nose to nose, playing tug of war over a piece of paper. Knowing she would win their verbal battle, she let Ezra win the physical one. She let go of the paper and turned to find Buck, JD, and Chris standing behind them.
"I swear, Miss McCloud, you and Ezra almost pass for brother and sister," Buck commented, amused at the scene before him. Ezra, usually the calm one of the group, rarely ever appeared ruffled. But at the moment he was mighty irritated. Both were flushed, their eyes glittering with indignation.
"I am afraid it appears that Mr. Standish and I are quite alike in some respects," Josie agreed, flashing Ezra the last remnant of her irritation in one look. "And I have to say you gentlemen are very good at sneaking up on an individual. This is the second time today I've been caught unaware by one of this town's peacekeepers. Chris, Mr. Tanner was in here earlier looking for you. I believe he needs to speak to you in regards to a particular issue," Josie said as she looked directly at Chris. "He seemed rather anxious." Chris nodded in acknowledgment. "Now can I interest you gentlemen in some coffee and whatever divine offerings Inez is cooking for breakfast?" Buck and JD instantly agreed with nods and helped themselves to some coffee before sitting at a table.
"Thanks for the offer, but I need to get moving," Chris replied, but before he could turn to leave, Josie had him by the arm.
"Now Chris Larabee, you of all people should eat a wholesome breakfast before going out to conquer the world. What kind of example are you setting for the others?" And before Chris realized it, Josie had maneuvered him to the table and much to the amazement of JD, Buck, and Ezra, Chris sat down. "I'll get you a cup of coffee and have Inez serve the food," she said as she unconsciously patted Chris's shoulder before moving away from him.
None of the men commented on the fact that Chris was actually sitting at the table eating breakfast with them, which was a rare occasion indeed. If Chris did eat in the morning, it had to be with Vin, because he certainly didn't do it with them.
"Miss Josie, did I hear you mention something about some odd jobs that needed to be done around the place?" Buck asked once Josie was seated with them.
"There are some minor repairs that I would like to have completed around here," Josie answered, curious as to why Buck would be inquiring.
"If that is your list," Buck said, pointing to the piece of paper beside Ezra's plate, "I would be more'n happy to look it over for you and see if I can be of any help."
"Buck, that would be marvelous." Josie gave Ezra look of warning as she reached across the table for the list. Chris noticed and tried to cover up his smile. She handed Buck the paper. "I would be willing to pay $2.50 per job or $5.00 in credit here at the saloon."
"That's grand larceny!" Ezra exclaimed.
"Do you plan on being miserly with everyone, or just your friends? " Josie asked as she placed her hands flat on the table, ready to pop out of her seat at any moment. "Right now it doesn't matter since it is my money, but I'd like to know for future reference."
"There is a difference, Miss McCloud, between being penurious and fiscally intelligent. I happen to fall into the later category," Ezra retorted, thinking he'd put Josie in her place.
"Huh?" JD asked. "Josie, I'm sure glad you can understand what Ezra's saying. Half the time, I don't even think he's speaking English."
"JD, Ezra thinks using large words makes him superior to others. But a truly superior individual doesn't need to make another feel inferior, to do so only makes one appear condescending and egotistical." Josie looked pointedly as Ezra then she turned to Buck. "So are you interested?"
"Sure am," Buck replied, a huge grin encompassing his face. He found Josie and Ezra to be vastly entertaining. "And I'm sure for the credit Vin, Josiah, and Nathan will help. What about you, Chris?"
Chris glanced at Josie. Here was a perfect opportunity to keep an eye on her, plus she might reveal something unintentionally. "Sure."
JD didn't even have to be asked. He'd been nodding since Josie had mentioned payment in form of liquor and food.
"Just feel free to come and go as you please. And if you need anything to eat or drink while you are working, just ask Inez." Josie looked down at the watch pinned to her dress. "If you would excuse me, I need to send a telegram to my cousin, informing her of my safe arrival." Josie stood, as did the four men at the table. "By the way, I would appreciate it, Mr. Standish, if you would refrain from speaking to me as you have this morning in front of our patrons. Your family is one thing," she said, indicating to the men sitting beside him, "but I think we should convey a united front to our customers." And before Ezra could reply, Josie was gone.
"Lord, she is one hell of a woman," Ezra declared with a grin. As much as she infuriated him, he also admired her tenacity. "Things will certainly be interesting with Miss McCloud around." And Chris couldn't have agreed more.
It was around mid-day when Josie finally realized Chris and Vin were keeping tabs on her. Having been on the other end of that observation more times then she could count, Josie recognized all the signs. If she hadn't been so busy getting to know the layout of the saloon and then the town, she would have noticed sooner. She chuckled to herself. That was fine. It was actually to her advantage. They would get to know her sooner that way. The Josie could go about running her saloon in peace. Or at least relative peace, what with Ezra agreeing to the partnership and that being were the agreement had ended. Oh- all in good time.
"'Suse me." Josie felt a tug at her skirts. "Are you the new saloon owner woman?"
Josie looked down to see an adorable little boy of about eight starring up at her with the biggest brown eyes, eyes filled with wonder.
"Yes, I am. My name is Josie McCloud. And who would you be?" Josie bent down and held out her hand to the little boy.
"I'm.." he began but was interrupted by a very pretty, petite blond.
"Billy," she called sternly as she approached.
Josie immediately stepped away from the boy, knowing how townswomen reacted to her. The last thing she wanted was trouble on her second day in town.
"Mary, this is the young lady I was telling you about," Chris said, appearing from out of nowhere. He placed his hands on the blonde's shoulders and steered her gently towards Josie.
"Oh- how do you do?" Mary asked, holding her hand out in greeting. "I'm Mary Travis, and this is my son, Billy." Josie was taken back by her genuine friendly smile. Mary was different from the others.
Josie gave a moments contemplation. Oh yes, Mary Travis- a widow and the owner of The Clarion, the town's local paper.
"Chris tells me you've purchased the saloon from Maude." Mary glanced at Chris, still awkwardly holding her hand out to Josie.
"Oh Lord, I've done it again, haven't I? You people will start thinking I've lost my mind." Josie smiled and grasped Mary's hand. "I'm Josie McCloud. You'll have to excuse me. My mind sometimes..."
"Wanders," Vin interrupted with a grin from behind Josie.
Buck and JD were right on his heels. It seemed the troops were rallying, but for herself or Mary Travis, Josie wasn't sure.
"Yes, that it does. I only wish I could say I am concentrating on the new town and the saloon, but you will soon discover my lapse in concentration occurs on all occasions," Josie confessed with an impish grin. Jesse accused her of being a daydreamer. Josie just liked to make sure things went as smoothly as possible. And that took serious planning at times, like the present.
Mary smiled in return. "When I'm caught up in a story, I have a tendency to do the same thing."
"Have you ever left the house without your shoes on?" Josie asked, genuinely intrigued to find someone with the same affliction.
Mary nodded, her cheeks rosy from admitting to something so embarrassing.
Josie's grin spread even wider. "And here I thought I was the only one."
Mary laughed, linking her arm with Josie's, the two instant friends, as they progressed down the boardwalk together with Billy following.
The four men watched the two ladies continue until they'd reached The Clarion and proceeded inside; JD in awe, Vin with an amused grin, Chris speculative, while Buck chuckled openly.
Chris should have been surprised that Josie had taken in Mary so quickly, but he wasn't. Buck and JD had already fallen under her spell. Hell, she'd even managed to charm Ezra. And if he weren't careful, this one would be crawling under his skin, causing him to take responsibility for one more person's safety.
The only one who seemed immune to both her beauty and charm was Vin. But then his very life depended on whom he trusted and whom he didn't. Being a wanted man for so long had caused Vin to judge people harshly, but once you earned his trust, you had it for life. Of- there was no doubt about it. Josie McCloud was trouble, one way or the other.
Chris mentioned as much to Vin when they were alone inside the jail. Josie was presently with Mary at the Clarion. So Chris and Vin had a short break from their vigil. Chris paced the room while Vin sat at the desk.
It had been a long time since anyone had gotten to Chris like this, who was able to scale the walls he'd erected. Even Mary couldn't get past them. Chris confided this to Vin who was as surprised as Chris himself.
"Are you saying what I think you're saying?" Vin asked, caught off guard. "I'd just always thought you and Mary..." He let his sentence trail off, thinking now might not be the best time to bring up his conclusions about Chris's feelings for Mary.
"No, nothing like that," Chris replied, wondering just how much Vin suspected concerning his feelings toward Mary. "I just see Josie sucking everyone in- first Buck and JD, then Ezra, and now Mary. Josiah and Nathan don't stand a chance. Hell, even I'm beginning to feel her pull on me. You're the only one who doesn't seem effected by her. If we don't learn the truth soon, I fear it might be too late," Chris explained solemnly.
"You're not the only one slipping," Vin said softly.
"I never would have guessed."
Vin shrugged. "Well, either she's absolutely harmless or she's a damn good liar." Chris nodded in agreement. "I say we give it to the end of the week. If either of us still have doubts, I'll wire the Judge and Rock Creek. We ought to discover something about Jesse or Josie McCloud that way."
"I think that's a sound plan," Chris agreed when out of the corner of his eye, he saw a flash of red go by the jailhouse window. "I think she's on the move."
"Why don't I stick with her this evening?" Vin suggested, concerned about what Chris had confided. The six men following Chris Larabee had all been concerned with the way Chris shut himself off from life and most of the people around him. Vin would really hate to see him opening up, only to have Josie McCloud stab him in the back. It would not only devastate Chris, but also probably send him to a place where he'd be impossible to reach again.
Josie sat with Mary in the office of the Clarion, chatting like old friends. Josie discovered Mary was a widow, her husband having been murdered several years back. Her father-in-law, the circuit judge, was the one who had hired the seven to clean up Four Corners. Josie also learned, though Mary wasn't aware she'd revealed it, that Mary held tender feeling for Chris Larabee. The same look came over the faces of her cousins, Louise and Theresa, when they talked about their husbands.
"Please don't think me rude, but you seem rather young to be on your own," Mary stated, thinking there must be a story involved.
"It's actually a McCloud family trait," Josie replied.
"What ever do you mean?" Mary asked, her curiosity peaked.
"My Da had always wanted to go to America. He thought he would make his fortune here. Aunt ? , Da's younger sister, had left Ireland when she was fifteen and seemed to have done well for herself. But my Mum didn't want to leave Ireland. She passed on when I was five. The memories became too painful for Da, and so we packed what little we owned and left Ireland. When Da was killed in a mining accident when I was eleven, Jesse and I were shipped off to an orphanage."
"How awful. Weren't there any family members that could take the two of you in? Where was your Aunt?" Mary asked, knowing that without Orin and his wife, she would have been lost when Stephen died.
"Da had lost track of Aunt ?, and our cousins, Louise, Theresa, and Jeremiah before I was born; and we didn't have a clue where they might be. Jesse decided we should go looking for them. And so we ran away from the orphanage two months after we had arrived. Jesse, who will read written on paper, found one of those dime novels about the Pony Express. It mentioned a Lou McCloud, and so we went in search of Lou in hopes that he might be able to help us find Louise. Instead we found Louise herself."
"I'm afraid I don't understand."
"My aunt had died when Jeremy was just a baby; and Louise, Resa, and Jeremy had ended up in an orphanage also. Lou eventually ran away, pretended to be a boy, and got a job riding for the Pony Express," Josie explained proudly.
"Amazing! Was she ever discovered?" Mary asked, filled with admiration for the young Louise McCloud.
"Yes, but not before she'd proven her worth." Josie paused and smiled, thinking of all the stories she'd heard over the years about Lou's adventures with the Pony Express. "Lou eventually married one of her fellow riders. Right before the war, five of them invested in some land outside of Rock Creek. Kid, Lou, and Buck worked the ranch, while Cody and Jimmy joined up with the army as scouts. "
Mary noticed Josie's smile fade as if she'd encountered an unpleasant memory, but the moment passed so quickly, she didn't comment on it.
"Lou finally had a home and she was able to bring Resa and Jeremy to live with her. That's where Jesse and I found the Lou McCloud of the Pony Express. By then, Resa had married Buck and they were raising Buck's three younger brothers." Josie paused a moment, trying to decide the best way to explain the hooligans Buck acknowledged as his brothers. "Well, they aren't actually Buck's brothers, at least not in the sense most whites think. They are from the same tribe."
"Tribe?" Mary questioned, surprised.
"Yes. Buck is half Kiowa. So are Colt, Slade, and Shane. Over the years, Buck and Theresa have taken in several of the parentless children from Buck's tribe. Jesse and I were just two of the many homeless urchins at the ranch."
"That is an amazing story. You and Jesse were incredibly lucky to have found Louise. Did you live at the ranch after you found Louise?" Mary asked, leaning forward in her chair.
"For the most part," Josie stated, glancing around the room.
Mary noticed that suddenly Josie had become evasive after being so open about her life. Josie looked uncomfortable, as if she was ready to bolt.
"You must be very proud of her," Mary commented, trying to make Josie feel more comfortable.
Josie smiled broadly. "Yes, I am." She glanced down at her watch. "Goodness, I didn't realize it was so late. Mary, I need to get back to the saloon," Josie said as she stood. "That is if it's still standing. I wouldn't put it past Ezra to give everything away just to spite me."
"Encountering problems with Ezra?" Mary asked as she walked Josie to the door.
"Oh, nothing I can't handle," Josie said with an impish grin. "Ezra will eventually learn that I am always right and he is always wrong. It just might take some time." And with a laugh and a wave, Josie was gone.
Right after Josie walked into the saloon, Vin appeared and Josie knew he had seen her pass the jail. She was surprised neither Chris nor Vin had shown up while she was at the Clarion to make sure she hadn't harmed Mary. At that thought, Josie smiled to herself. They probably didn't think a woman was capable.
"Care to join me?" Josie asked as she approached Vin with two beers.
"Sure thing," Vin said as he followed Josie to a table. Once they were both seated, Josie handed Vin one of the beers. "Now Josie, you don't need to be giving me free drinks. I can pay for them."
Josie waved his statement away. "You are practically Ezra's family. And anyway, I fully intend on getting my money's worth out of you sometime."
"How so?" Vin asked, leaning back and eyeing Josie curiously.
Josie shrugged as she replied," At present, I don't know. But I'm certain at some point in the near future I will need your help for something, for example, breaking up an altercation here." Josie motioned around the room with her hand.
"Buck did mention you needin' work done around here," Vin stated, looking around the saloon.
"There, you see. Just call that beverage a teaser so I can get some manual labor out of you," Josie said with a smile. "I certainly don't see Ezra lifting a finger to help get this establishment repaired. I'm going to need all the help I can get."
Vin tried to stop himself from laughing, but the thought of Ezra actually getting dirty was too amusing to suppress.
"Speakin' of Ezra," Vin began once he'd contained himself, "he wanted me to let you know Chris sent him to Eagle Bend. He probably won't be back until tomorrow, and he asked me to keep an eye on the place."
"I would very much enjoy having your company this evening. It will certainly be less confrontational with Ezra gone. I suppose Buck told you about this morning." Vin's grin was answer enough. "That's what I'd assumed."
"Wish I could have seen it," Vin said as he laughed softly.
"Oh, never fear. I'm quite sure that wasn't the last argument between Ezra and myself. I would guess they will occur daily until Ezra realizes he just can't possible win," Josie said with a mischievous grin. Then they both had a good laugh at Ezra's expense.
"Hey Vin, Josie," JD greeted, tipping his hat to Josie as he joined them. ""Since Ezra's gone, I thought you might be interested in a game of cards."
"I might," Vin replied, considering JD's offer.
JD nodded. "I thought I'd get Chris and Buck to join us."
"Count me in. What about you, Josie?" Vin asked as he turned to her.
"But she's a girl," JD stammered.
"Yes, a girl that can outdrink and outplay you," Josie declared indignantly.
"That sounds like a challenge to me, Kid," Buck said as he slapped JD on the back and winked at Josie.
"You're on," JD said, accepting what he thought was a challenge he couldn't possibly lose.
"That don't sound like such a good idea to me. What do you think, Chris?" Vin asked, turning to Chris who had come in with Buck and was standing behind him.
Before Chris could reply, Josie stated, "Never fear, I promise not to inflict any serious damage. So JD, what's your drink of choice?"
JD paused for a minute, then smiled as he said, "Whiskey," thinking it would be too strong a beverage for a girl. But JD's smile faded by the satisfied smirk on Josie's face.
"Whiskey it is." Then she turned to Inez, who was behind the bar, and called, "Whiskey, and if you would be so kind as to keep it coming. Shall we begin?" Josie asked as she motioned to the table she and Vin were already sitting at and pulled a deck of cards out of her pocket. She began shuffling them as Buck poured the whiskey.
Chris nodded to Vin as he sat next to him. Chris thought he saw a perfect opportunity. He'd seen big men bare all after an evening of whiskey. How long could it take for a little thing like Josie to fall under its effects? The next morning he discovered just how long.
By the end of the evening, Josie had won all of their money; JD had passed out in a corner; and Buck had staggered into the storeroom, where he'd fallen asleep on a sack of flour. Josie, Vin, and Chris were still able to stand, barely. Chris woke the next morning wishing he was dead and swearing to God that he would never do it again, if only the pounding in his head would go away. Josie might have told Chris everything he'd wanted to know, but he couldn't remember a thing after the first hour. He hoped if Josie had said anything, Vin was aware of it.