EPILOGUE
Two Months Later
Dani was laid to rest a few days later in the Sweetwater Cemetary. Her epitaph read, "Jane Marks. Taken away before her time."
Buck quickly healed from the bullet graze he received that day, but it would remain a permanent reminder of what happened.
As soon as he was able he took as many runs as possible. He tried desperately to escape that day, her face and those eyes. He barely spoke two words to anyone for fear that her name may be mentioned. It was tearing everyone up to see him this upset, but Noah knew that this upcoming news might help soothe him. At least he hoped it would.
"Buck, you've got mail," Noah quickly handed him the brown paper wrapped package.
Buck looked down at the simply wrapped paper, looking for some sign of who may have sent it, but found none. He took a seat outside of the bunkhouse and slowly unwrapped it. Inside he found a note and book. His attention was quickly grabbed by the title, "Death of the Lady Gunfighter." He found himself getting very angry and was ready to kill whoever would send him such distasteful trash. He quickly opened the letter and began reading,
My dearest Buck,
Not a day has gone by without my thoughts being filled with your eyes, your lips, your touch. I'm sorry you have to find out this way, but I couldn't risk Holland's men not believing me to be dead. On the ride to find them, Noah and I realized the only way to keep you safe was to kill Jane Marks. She did die that day at the hands of Calvin Holland. Unfortunately, Danielle Dixon had to go into hiding because of it.
I have never taken off the beautiful ring you gave me. It's a constant reminder of what we shared. I know this may not ease your pain, but you needed to know. I needed you to know. Noah can explain everything.
I wish it didn't have to be this way, but I take comfort in the fact that I know you are safe. Maybe one day we will meet again, but for now, just know that I will love you until my last breath.
Yours Forever,
Dani
Buck dropped his hands between his legs and looked up to find Noah watching him in the distance from the corral. Buck met his eyes and gave him a nod. Noah quickly returned the nod and made his way toward the barn.
Buck stared down at the letter in his hands as a tear escaped his eye. He then turned his attention to the book beside him. He set the letter down and grabbed hold of the book turning it to page 1.
He read, "The two express riders wandered into the Silver Springs saloon. The scent of whiskey and cigar smoke filled the air." He smiled and continued reading.