Callie

A young barmaid set a mug of beer in front of the man seated at a table near the window. More than his size, she was struck by his eyes.

"Thanks, Miss." The big man in a cream-colored shirt and russet suede vest smiled and held out two coins, one for the beer and the other for her.

The barmaid moved around the table to get a better look at his face. A pair of sparkling, crystal blue eyes assured her that this man was different than most of the cowboys that frequented this establishment.

"It's Callie and you're welcome."

Hoss ran a finger across the brim of the tall hat. "Pleased to meet ya, Callie." He raised the mug toward her. "Thanks."

Callie offered him a sweet smile. "Just let me know if you need another one."

Hoss offered a faint wave. "Will do."

Callie let her tray fall to her side and headed back to the bar but not without taking a moment to glance back at her customer.

Hoss sat quietly sipping his beer until a group of unruly cowboys, a few tables over, created a loud and obnoxious scene. He couldn't help but notice the rough manner they were using with Callie, passing her one to another. Probing hands and open mouths accosted her body. Hoss' eyes narrowed. He glanced over at the bartender who seemed deaf to Callie's protestations.

Frustrated, Hoss pushed up out of his chair and moved nearer the commotion. "You've had your fun, now leave the lady alone!"

Callie took note that the big man's calm and happy eyes had changed to a steely gray.

"I got first dibs. You'll have ta wait your turn." The man that currently had Callie spoke up. "'Sides there wouldn't be much left of her once you're done. She'd be smashed flat."

Raucous laughter filled the saloon. Callie used the moment to pull away while the cowboy was distracted by the response to his remark. Seeing that she was now out of harm's way, Hoss lifted the offensive cowpoke out of his seat and punched him so hard that he was left unconscious and draped over the chair.

Then Hoss looked around the table at the other four cowboys. "All right! Who's next?"

Open mouths closed quickly as they moved to revive their pal. With determined strides, Hoss strode toward the swinging doors stopping just long enough at his table to gulp down his beer.

Callie ran and caught up with him outside. "Hey, mister!"

"Excuse me, Miss Callie. I don't mean ta be rude, but I best be on my way."

"Sure, but what's your name?"

"Hoss Cartwright."

"Thanks Hoss." She fingered for him to lean down and placed a kiss on his cheek. "Look me up if you're ever back this way again."

Hoss' face broke into an embarrassed, boyish grin. "Sure thing, Miss Callie. You take care o' yurself now."

She watched him mount his dark horse. Hoss tipped his hat and kicked his horse into a trot.