Ch. 4: Fanning the Flames
Vic wasn't surprised to find the bedroom light still on when she entered the cabin. Walt was in the habit of waiting up for her unless she told him she wouldn't be home. Closing and locking the door against the still dropping temperatures and blowing snow, Vic removed her hat and gloves. Tucking them away in her pocket, she removed her jacket and hung it up. Vic toed off her boots and left them by the door with melting snow and dirt caked around the edges.
Walt was in bed with a book propped up in his lap, the bedside lamp on. Vic paused in the doorway as he looked up. Her hands lifted and she stared to unbutton her shirt.
"Waiting up?"
A small smile played on his lips as he marked his place and set the book aside. He shrugged.
"Maybe."
Vic returned his smile, but then it faded. Walt eyed her with a hint of concern as she continued to undress and change.
"Something wrong?"
Vic sat down on the bed to pull her socks off.
"Who is Will Cain?"
The question was met with silence as Vic stood up and pushed her jeans down, stepping out of them and kicking them out of her way. Walt's eyes stayed on her as she then pulled on one of his t-shirts and a pair of yoga pants.
Standing beside the bed, she looked at him with one hand on her hip. His expression was confused.
"Why?"
"Because I arrested him tonight and he's the guy. The one I was telling you about."
Walt frowned, his brow knitting together.
"Will Cain is the guy you were talking about?"
Vic nodded as she moved around the bed and pulled back the covers.
"Yeah, so who is he?"
Walt faced her as she moved around, trying to get situated.
"How do you know that I know him?"
Vic blew out an impatient breath, clearly just wanting answers and not more questions in response to her questions.
"Because he told me to tell you hello. So…I want to know who he is and how the hell he knows who I am."
He didn't look anxious to talk about it.
"It's a long story. It's late."
Vic shook her head at his attempt to steer the subject away.
"Walt."
Her tone left him little wiggle room to argue. Walt ran his palm over the quilt, his fingers picking at the stitching on it.
"He's someone I knew once. Years ago."
"When?"
Walt sighed.
"You really want to hear this tonight?"
She held his eyes with a serious expression. When she spoke, her voice was quiet and just as serious.
"Walt, he called me Victoria. No one…here does that. The last person to do it was Chance Gilbert. And this guy is almost as creepy when he does it. So, yeah, I want to hear this tonight."
He could see that she was unsettled. He also knew it took a lot to rattle her like that.
"He was a friend once. We uh…we went to high school together. We both played football. But we had a falling out after he got into a fight with Henry."
Vic cut in.
"Henry? What was his problem with Henry?"
Walt's eyes took on a slightly distant look.
"He was Cheyenne."
Vic nodded in understanding.
"Right."
"After high school, he…lost his way. Didn't go to college, couldn't hold a job. He became a drifter of sorts. He left Durant for a while, but he always came back. Always caused trouble. By the time he came back the last time, I was working for Lucian. We got word that the state police were looking for him. And I am the one who arrested him and turned him over to them."
Vic bit her lip.
"What was he wanted for?"
"Attempted murder. He beat a woman half to death."
Vic exhaled sharply.
"Shit. So…I'm guessing he's not a fan."
Walt shook his head.
"No, he's not. He…grew bitter after the mess with Henry. He started to hate me. Didn't understand why I sided with an Indian over him. It's…a shame. He could've been something. I didn't know he was back in town."
Vic was watching him, trying to read between the lines.
"That's all there is, Vic. I went a couple of times to his parole hearings. After a while, I…forgot about him. Moved on."
"He the type to hold a grudge?"
Walt shrugged.
"I…don't know. I can't imagine he would still be angry after all this time. But…we've seen it before."
Vic sighed.
"I ran his name and he doesn't have any active warrants. So…he must have served his time. But…there's something about him that…I don't know. He's dangerous."
Walt nodded slowly.
"Yeah. He can be. Or he could once. People change."
Vic gave him a skeptical look.
"I'm thinking he's not one of those people. Watch your back."
She could see him brush off her concerns almost immediately.
"I can handle him."
Vic ignored his words and reiterated her own.
"Watch. Your. Back."
Walt didn't like her worrying about him. She had enough on her plate without adding him to the mix. He offered her up the best smile he could muster and hoped it was convincing.
"Okay."
Vic gave him a stern look.
"I mean it, Walt."
"Okay. I hear you. And…I will. But…you know there's nothing we can do legally if he hasn't made any direct threats or done anything illegal."
"I know. Still…this guy is creepy as fuck."
Walt reached out and placed his hand on her quilt covered leg.
"I want you to be careful, too."
Vic nodded and tried to force the stress out of her system.
"Right. Let's…get some sleep."
Walt switched off the lamp as she settled in beside him. He could hear her breathing even out into sleep. But, he felt wired now. She knew that he was trying to play down any concern. And, she was right. He had told her the truth. He hadn't thought about Will Cain in years. But, the fact that the man was back worried him whether he would admit it or not. The fact that he knew about Walt's life now left an odd feeling in his gut. Cain knew about his relationship with Vic. Something was off. He knew that and it riled something up inside of him. Their lives had turned quiet and peaceful for the most part. And Walt liked it that way. They both did.
He knew this could change all of that.
xxx
Vic paused as she walked by the jail cell. Glancing around, she looked to Ferg.
"Where's the guy who was in here last night?"
Ferg shrugged.
"Don't know. Cell was empty when I came in. Maybe ask Cady."
Vic shifted her attention and crossed the floor to Cady's open office door. She tapped lightly on the doorframe. Cady glanced up.
"Good morning."
Vic skipped the pleasantries.
"The guy I arrested last night…Cain…where is he?"
Cady frowned.
"I released him this morning."
Vic stepped farther into the office.
"Why?"
Cady leaned back in her chair.
"The young man that he hit declined to press charges when Zach called him last night. There weren't any warrants on him. So…there was no reason for us to hold him."
Vic's face grew frustrated.
"Shit."
Cady gave her a long look.
"Is something wrong?"
Vic shook her head.
"Forget it."
She turned to leave when Cady stood up.
"Vic, wait."
Vic stopped and turned back in time to see Cady coming around the desk. She leaned on it and folded her arms over her chest.
"What's the problem?"
Vic glanced at Cady like she was debating whether or not to say more. Cady's blue eyes settled on her. They were brighter than Walt's, but similar enough. Vic shuffled her feet.
"He knows Walt."
Cady looked like she was waiting for more, but that was all Vic offered her.
"And?"
Vic shrugged.
"And nothing. He knows Walt and he was kind of a jackass last night when I was bringing him in."
"Did he threaten you or dad?"
Vic shook her head.
"No."
"Then…what's the deal? Dad knows lots of people."
Vic shrugged, dismissing the comment.
"There's no deal. Are we done?"
She could see that her curt reply caught Cady slightly off guard. It was a fine line that Vic walked day to day working for Walt's daughter. In all honesty, they both had to walk that particular line. It could be hard to leave personal matters out of the office when emotions ran high, but they both worked at it daily. So far, they had been successful.
Cady nodded slowly, her stance relaxing some.
"Vic, if there's something you want to talk about…"
Vic appreciated the offer, but there was no need to involve Cady. If Cady didn't recognize the man or his name, there was no reason for Vic to share more than Walt might be comfortable with his daughter knowing.
There was that line again.
"No, it's fine. I was just curious where he was. Last I heard, the kid wanted to press charges. Guess he thought better of it."
Cady sighed.
"I guess so."
With that, Vic flashed her a quick, not really there smile and left her office.
xxx
Vic heard the door open and close, but she was wrapped up in what she was doing, her eyes fixated on the screen of her laptop. It wasn't until she heard Ruby's voice that she nearly jumped out of her skin.
"Walter!"
Vic reflexively reached up and closed her laptop, snapping it closed. She turned her chair to see Walt standing over Ruby's desk his hat in his hand.
"Ruby, how are you?"
"Good, how are you?"
He smiled.
"Fine."
He turned his eyes away from Ruby and they fell on Vic. She stood up as Walt approached her.
"Hey."
Walt paused in front of her, his eyes scanning around them.
"Hey. Do you have time for lunch?"
Vic's brow went up in mild surprise.
"Is it lunchtime already?"
Walt nodded.
"It's after twelve."
Vic nodded.
"Sure, I have time. Slow day."
Vic stood up and pulled her jacket from her chair. Pulling it on and zipping it against the cold, she followed Walt out the door and onto the sidewalk outside.
"Busy Bee?"
Vic laughed quietly.
"Nah, how about the Busy Bee?"
Walt smiled as they made the short walk to the familiar café. Inside, the air was warm and fragrant. Dorothy glanced at them as they came in and smiled.
"Hey, you two! Take a seat."
Walt nodded and led the way to a small table near the back corner. Removing their jackets they sat down in time to see Dorothy appear at the table.
"Coffee?"
Walt nodded.
"Yes. Please."
She smiled and looked to Vic who also nodded.
"Sure."
Dorothy looked between them.
"Need a minute or do you know what you want?"
Walt leaned back in his chair.
"I'll have the usual."
Dorothy smiled.
"Today, that is chicken noodle soup. Vic?"
"Um…same."
Dorothy nodded.
"Keeping it simple. Be back in a minute with your coffee?"
True to her word, she bustled off and reappeared seconds later with a fresh pot of coffee. Once Dorothy hurried off again, Walt slid his hat out of his way and leaned in a little.
"Something wrong?"
Vic looked up from her coffee.
"No."
He didn't seem to accept her answer.
"You never order the usual."
Vic shrugged.
"You the lunch police now? It sounded good."
Walt let whatever was going on in his head go as Dorothy came out with their soup. Walt started to eat, while Vic picked up her spoon and stirred it around the bowl. The fact that she seemed distracted didn't escape his notice.
"Vic?"
She looked up.
"The kid that Cain got into a fight with didn't press charges. So…we had to release him."
Walt nodded slowly.
"That's not unusual."
"I know but…I feel like there's more here. Something you're not telling me."
Walt put his spoon down.
"It sounds like you think I'm lying to you."
Vic shook her head as she finally took a bite.
"I didn't say that. But, admit it. You do have a habit of…filtering information."
Walt started to eat again.
"I told you the facts. It was a long time ago. There's no need to rehash all of it."
She dropped her eyes from his and continued to eat. Walt finished off his soup and sipped his coffee. Vic was tense. He could see it in her face and the tight set of her shoulders.
"Do you think you'll get off on time?"
Vic looked up and nodded.
"Probably. Unless something major happens. I'm not on call."
Walt offered her a conciliatory smile.
"Do you…want to do something?"
Vic eyed him curiously. It was usually her idea to go out.
"Like what?"
Walt ran his hands over the table.
"We could go to the Red Pony. Play pool. Dance."
Vic narrowed her eyes at him.
"You want to go dancing?"
He shrugged, hearing the disbelief and suspicion in her voice.
"Sure."
Vic straightened up in her seat. Her expression told him that she wasn't buying what he was selling.
"Walt, you hate dancing."
"But, you like it."
Vic bit her bottom lip and studied him.
"Don't think I don't see what you're doing here. But…sure…we can go out. Who am I to turn down a little fun?"
Walt smiled in response.
"Then…it's a date."
xxx
Will was pissed at himself. He had been weak and it could have cost him everything. Although, he hadn't so much minded the time alone with Victoria Moretti. Now, Walt would know he was in town. But, there wasn't anything the man could do about it. He was a free man with no chains about him. No one to answer to.
It was a good feeling.
He would need to exercise some self-discipline. Bide his time more wisely. Maybe this would work out better than he originally thought. Walt might not even realize how dangerous he could be. Even if he did, it would just give him time to think about it. Marinate in it. The way Will did while he was locked up with nothing but his hatred for Walt Longmire to sustain him.
He hadn't intended to get drunk at the bar. But, alcohol was one of his biggest weaknesses. Since his youth. Alcohol and women. Both landed him in hot water on more than one occasion. But, he was never able to stay away from either for very long. He spent the morning catching up on sleep he missed out on while he was in the jail.
He was never good at sleeping while locked up. It made him nervous. Edgy. By early afternoon, he was wide awake and milling around his room. It was one of the things he always disliked about Durant. In such a small town, it could be hard to find something to do. There was the casino. But that cost money. Money was one thing he was short on. What cash he did have, he had saved for this exact time and he needed to save it.
He could go back to the bar he supposed. It might not be the best idea. But sitting around here would drive him crazy. Idleness was not well suited to his personality. He was a man of action. A man with little patience.
Waiting, here in Durant, was taking every bit of self-control he had.
xxx
As usual, Vic drew her fair share of attention from the men in the bar. It didn't bother Walt and it wasn't anything new. She opted for a sweater thanks to the frigid temperatures, and it hugged her figure nicely. So did her jeans. Walt couldn't blame the men around them who kept looking her way. Her hair was in a loose braid down her back.
He watched her over the pool table as she leaned in and considered her shot. If she sunk it, the game was over and she would win. All of her attention was focused on the table and the balls as she circled like a bird of prey. Her brow was furrowed in thought as she scoped out the best way to take her shot. Her hazel eyes were intense and hyper focused. It wasn't much different than watching her at a crime scene.
Finally, she made her move and the game was over. She looked up at Walt with a wide smile and all he could do was shrug. It wasn't that he didn't like to win. He did. And he could beat her at pool when he really applied himself. But tonight, he was more interested in her frame of mind than anything else. He wanted her to relax and forget about work for a while. And, if that meant losing a round of pool, he was okay with that.
He returned her smile as she passed him the pool stick to put away.
"Nice shot."
She shrugged.
"Wasn't sure I could make it."
Walt swiped his hands across his jeans.
"Want a drink?"
She nodded and fanned herself a little.
"Yeah, all that competition made me a little hot."
Her voice had a lilt to it that made his heart speed up a bit. They walked side by side to the bar and slid onto vacant stools. Vic rested her elbows on the wooden surface as Tom sidled up with a raised eyebrow.
"Deputy, nice to see you finally having some fun."
He turned to Walt.
"I tell her all the time she works too much."
Walt smiled.
"How are you, Tom?"
The wiry Cheyenne nodded.
"Can't complain. Business is good. What'll it be? Couple of beers?"
When they both nodded he quickly retrieved the beers and placed them on the bar.
"Anything else? We've got a good burger going tonight?"
Vic took a long swallow from her bottle and nodded her head.
"That sounds good. I'll take one."
Tom's dark eyes shifted to Walt, who nodded.
"Sure."
"Great!"
He disappeared towards the kitchen. Walt sipped his Ranier and turned to Vic.
"He likes you more than me."
Vic rolled her eyes.
"Well…someone should."
He smiled.
"I like you better than me."
The comment earned him another roll of her eyes.
"Yeah…but I can do things for you that you can't do for yourself…"
She trailed off, leaving a red hue creeping up his neck. Vic turned and looked around the bar.
"Busy tonight."
Walt glanced over his shoulder.
"Yep. Weather's giving everyone cabin fever."
Vic huffed.
"It sucks. That's for sure."
"Here are your burgers."
The sound of Tom's voice behind them made them both startle slightly. Turning back around, they were greeted by loaded hamburgers and hot from the oil fries. Vic smiled at Tom.
"Thanks. And thank you for the suggestion."
He nodded.
"Anytime, Deputy."
He hurried off to wait on other customers. Walt watched as she flipped the top off of her burger and rearranged the toppings.
"Why does he always call you Deputy?"
She shrugged as she added mustard and pressed the top bun back on.
"I have no idea. He knows my name."
Walt watched as she took a bite and closed her eyes in appreciation.
"Damn, that is good."
Walt smiled as he started to eat his own food. Halfway through her burger, Vic elbowed him.
"I seem to remember someone mentioning something about dancing."
Walt dipped his face a little.
"We were playing pool."
She nudged him again in the side.
"Well, when you're done eating, I'm holding you to that."
Walt cocked his head and listened.
"We need a slower song."
Vic laughed as she sipped her beer.
"Or you could learn some new moves."
He smiled at her good natured teasing. They were, admittedly, very different personalities. Walt always assumed it was one of the reasons they worked well together, professionally and personally. They complemented each other. Pushed just enough outside of their respective comfort zones. Vic wiped her hands on her napkin and dropped it onto her plate. Pushing it away, she swallowed the last of her beer and set the bottle down. Turning on her stool, he could feel her eyes on him. When he turned his head, there was something more serious in her demeanor. She leaned in closer to be heard above the noise.
"Thank you."
He didn't ask what for. He didn't need to. He understood what she was saying and what she wasn't saying. A smile quirked up one side of his mouth as he polished off his own beer and pushed back from the bar. Right on time, the song streaming from the jukebox ended and another began. And it was slow.
Walt stood up and held out his hand.
"Come on."
Her hand was cold in his when she took it and let Walt tug her to her feet. Her hands slid up his chest and looped around his neck, while his settled on her hips. Vic rested her forehead on his chest and exhaled before lifting her face up.
"See? Not so bad."
Walt dropped his face closer to hers and she butted his chin lightly with the side of her face. He smiled, his grip tightening a little. The swayed slowly until the song ended, at which point Walt stepped back from her. Vic looked up at him, her eyes dark.
"Let's go home."
The familiar cadence in her tone made his mouth go dry and his face heat up. Walt nodded wordlessly. He felt her take his hand as they walked back to the bar for their coats.
Stepping from the warm, loud bar into the artic, quiet night was like stepping into a different world. The sky overhead was clear and a blanket of stars spread out as far as they could see. Vic's hand found his again as they walked to the Bronco.
"Damn, I shoulda come earlier."
Walt stopped and turned to his left, where the voice came from, Vic's hand slipping from his. The crunch of Cain's boots seemed impossibly loud as he approached from his beat up truck. He paused about two feet from them and smiled.
"Walt, long time."
Walt eyed the man opposite him.
"Will, I heard you were back."
Cain's eyes flicked to Vic.
"I'm sure you did."
"What brings you back to Durant?"
Cain shuffled his feet.
"Oh…you know…I missed home. Few people I'd like to see. I see life's treating you good."
His dark eyes again shifted to Vic and back to Walt. Vic edged closer to Walt, sensing the tenseness in his body.
"I'm not sure they'll be so happy to see you inside. Didn't you get in enough trouble last night?"
He turned his full attention to Vic, flashing her a smile that seemed as cold as the night around them.
"Now, Deputy Moretti, I didn't come here looking for trouble. Just…a little fun. I don't suppose I could interest you in a dance."
Vic's eyes were sharp. When she spoke, her voice was just as edgy.
"No, I don't suppose you could."
His smile faded a bit.
"Shame. Been a long time since I danced with a pretty lady."
His eyes moved to Walt.
"You're a lucky man, Walt. I bet I don't need to tell you that. She's…quite the piece of…."
Vic felt Walt stiffen and stepped in front of him quickly, trying to head off trouble before it erupted. Planting her hand on his chest, she pushed him firmly in the direction of the Bronco.
"Let's go."
He met her eyes quickly and nodded. He started to turn away when Cain spoke again.
"Damn, she's got you trained, Walt. Just like a well behaved dog."
Walt paused but Vic continued to steer him away.
"Walt."
He could hear the warning in her tone, her hand gripped his arm firmly. He ducked his face in a nod and continued to the Bronco. Cain continued on his way to the front door of the Red Pony.
Inside the Bronco, Walt gripped the wheel tightly. Vic looked at him.
"You can't let him get to you."
"I know."
The words came out terse. Vic sighed.
"C'mon, Walt. Let's just go home. Don't let him ruin tonight."
Walt knew she was right. Up until just now, the night was exactly was they both needed. Starting the engine, he glanced at the now empty space Cain vacated and pulled out.
xxx
Vic was draped lazily over him, her breathing still somewhat labored. One of Walt's arms was looped around her, his fingers stroking a path over her sweat laced back. She shivered slightly under his fingertips. Her face was pressed into the crook of his neck, her exhales sending warm bursts of air across his bare skin. His own heart was still thumping hard inside his chest.
He felt her breathe in deeply and let the breath out slow and measured. Lifting her head, she smiled at him, warm and open.
"Feel better?"
He did. She always seemed to know what he needed.
"Yeah."
Vic shifted so that she slid off of him and into the space at his side. Rolling halfway onto her side she stretched one arm across his abdomen and let her palm come to rest lightly on his stomach.
The cabin was quiet around them. Outside the bedroom, the only sound was the logs in the fire popping and shifting occasionally as they burned. The pleasant aroma of the warming fire wafted its way through the spaces. It made it easy to forget how cold it was outside. And there would be no break in the ruthless temperatures for several more days.
As the minutes stretched by, they lay in the silence. Walt listened as Vic's breathing evened out into the deep, steady breaths of sleep. Even after that, he lay awake. She twitched a couple of times and moved once, her fingers brushing over his skin. Still, he lay unmoving.
Finally, he eased himself away from her, pausing once when she stirred. Holding his breath, he only let it out again when she stayed asleep. Walt carefully slid off of the bed and grabbed for his clothes. Pulling on his underwear and jeans, he ran his palm over his face and walked into the living room in his bare feet. Turning his eyes to the fire, he studied it. After a moment's consideration, he placed another log onto the fire and took stock of the wood that was inside. He would need to bring more in after the sun came up. There was enough to get through the early morning, but the stack would need replenishing by afternoon.
The living room was completely dark except for the light the flames cast around the room, creating a dancing shadow along the floor and wall. Walt cocked his head and listened. The wind was blowing. Thankfully, there was no more snow in the forecast for a couple of days. Just cold temperatures. Bitter cold. Walt struggled to remember a stretch like this in recent years. He knew Vic was anxious for spring. Since he had known her, she always hated the bone jarring cold that settled in this time of the winter. Not that he blamed her. It was the type of weather that separated the hardy from the less so. He was looking forward to warmer temperatures himself.
Walt walked over to the window and looked out. The moon was nearly full and cast a luminous glow over the snow that stretched out around them. It was beautiful and haunting all at the same time. This time of year seemed longer the older he got.
Walt shook away the thoughts that were running through his mind. Thoughts of his youth, thoughts of the past. He had shed his ghosts. Or so he thought. He hadn't expected Will Cain to ever return to Durant. In all the years that passed between then and now, he hadn't even thought about the man for a good many of them. He followed his parole hearings for a while. Then life took over and he pushed the experience out of his mind, like he did so many others.
He knew Cain was goading him at the Red Pony. Trying to trip him up and get a reaction. It was the very thing that Walt didn't want to give him. But, when he involved Vic, it took things to a place that Walt wasn't comfortable with. He wasn't afraid of Cain. He never had been. But, the man's presence in Durant left him with a feeling that he was unable to shake. Despite his attempts to alleviate Vic's concerns, he knew she saw through it. She usually did.
Turning away from the window, he glanced at the fire one more time. The extra log was causing it to grow and heat up. His eyes stayed on the flames for another few minutes before he finally went back to bed.
xxx
"Aren't you going fishing today?"
Walt nodded as he turned the sizzling pieces of bacon in the frying pan.
"Yep."
"Where is this place exactly?"
Walt looked her way as she stirred cream and sugar into her coffee.
"Bout an hour from here."
Vic watched as he pulled the bacon from the pan and placed it on a paper towel lined plate. Then, he dumped a bowl of eggs into the pan to scramble.
"Seems too damn cold to camp."
Walt smiled.
"We'll have some heat. You can only ice fish when it's cold."
Vic rolled her eyes.
"No shit."
She reached out and grabbed a piece of bacon, biting off one end and pulling plates down from the cabinet for them. While Walt finished up with the eggs, she carried their coffee to the table. Walt slid the eggs onto the plates and set the pan aside.
Grabbing more bacon and setting it on her plate, she sat down and watched while Walt brought his own plate over and sat across from her.
"You'll be okay on your own?"
It wasn't a question he would normally ask, considering she had lived alone plenty before. But, with all that happened recently, he felt like he needed to broach the topic, even if it annoyed her. It clearly did.
"I'm a big girl. I can take care of myself."
Walt gave her a thoughtful look.
"Do you need me for anything?"
Vic gave him a toothy smile.
"I always need you. But…I guess I can spare you for a night."
Walt shifted a little in his seat, causing her smile to widen. Getting reactions out of him was one of her favorite things. Growing more serious, Vic sipped her coffee.
"How's our girl doing?"
Walt smiled at her mention of the horse. The past couple of days were busy and Vic hadn't had time to visit the barn.
"Good. I think she misses you."
Vic huffed out a low laugh.
"I doubt that. She doesn't really know me."
"Still, you should go see her."
Vic smiled.
"I will. Maybe after work. She can keep me company."
Walt paused in his eating.
"You sure about me going?"
She nodded, flapping a hand at him.
"Sure. Go and have some fun with Henry. I'll be fine here. Who's driving?"
"I am. Henry should be here soon."
"Packed?"
Walt nodded and sipped his coffee.
"Yep. Duffel's in the bedroom."
Vic finished her breakfast and carried her plate to the sink. Hearing a rumbling in the distance, she turned to look at Walt.
"Sounds like Henry now. That old truck is loud."
Walt stood up and set his plate on the counter. He started to help her with the dishes, but Vic waved him off.
"I got this. Get your stuff."
Walt answered the door and Henry strode into the kitchen with a smile as Walt disappeared into the bedroom.
"Good morning, Vic."
"Morning, Henry. Want some breakfast?"
Henry shook his head.
"No thank you. I ate. Walt could not convince you to come with us?"
Vic shook her head as Walt came back into the kitchen.
"Hell no. Freezing isn't my idea of a good time. The two of you can have it."
Walt set his duffel bag down and turned to her.
"I'll be back sometime tomorrow evening."
Vic wiped her hands off on her pants and gave him a smile. Walt bent down and kissed her, his hands on her shoulders. When he pulled back, he put his hat on. Vic's hand grazed over the stubble on his jawline.
"Be careful."
He nodded.
"We will."
She offered Henry a smile.
"Bring him back in one piece, will you?"
"I will do my best."
xxx
"So, Cady is no longer with Zach?"
Walt looked across the front seat of the Bronco at Henry before turning his eyes back to the road.
"That's what she tells me."
They bumped along the rural road that badly needed a fresh paving.
"What happened?"
Walt shrugged as he steered the Bronco away from a pothole
"Don't know. How did you find out?"
"Cady told me. She did not tell me why and I did not ask."
Walt sighed.
"I did, but she was evasive."
A knowing smile crossed Henry's face.
"I have no idea where she could have gotten that trait."
Walt shook his head.
"I worry about her Henry. She had strong feelings for Zach."
Henry nodded as the Bronco bounced along.
"Yes, she did. She probably still does. But, they are adults and they know how they feel. Has Vic spoken with her about it?"
"Yep. But, either she didn't tell Vic the reason or Vic isn't being honest with me."
Henry gave him a look.
"I do not think it is a question of honesty, Walt. She is friends with Cady. It is possible Cady has asked her not to tell you such things."
That was pretty much the response he expected.
"I'm her father."
He could see he was only making Henry's point for him. It was the same point Vic made when they talked about it.
"Exactly. You are her father. Vic is not her mother. She is her friend. She knows how you are. We all do."
Walt's hand tightened on the wheel.
"There's nothing wrong with wanting to protect my daughter."
"No, there is not. But, your idea of protection can be…stifling."
Walt gave Henry another look.
"How did she seem when she talked to you?"
"Good. She seemed good. She seems happy, even with the break up. It has been a long time since she has seemed truly happy. Maybe she has found her place."
"I hope so."
Henry turned to look out the window at the passing landscape.
"How are things between you and Vic?"
"Fine. Why do you ask?"
Henry shrugged.
"No reason. I do not see you as often. Sometimes, I feel like I do not know what is going on with you. You are happy?"
"Yep."
Henry turned from the window wearing a smile.
"Typical Walt Longmire answer. But, you want Cady to give you a long story. Do you see the problem?"
Walt shook his head.
"Nope. Vic and I don't really have any issues. Cady just broke up with her boyfriend. Not the same at all."
Henry glanced his way.
"Everyone has issues, Walt. Some more than others."
Walt gave his friend a quick look.
"Trying to say something?"
"Not at all. So…how are you and Vic doing?"
He was fishing a little early, but Walt wasn't biting.
"Fine."
The Bronco rattled on down the road.
xxx
Ice fishing, huh?
Vic nodded. Cady sat across the small table from her in the Red Pony.
"I remember them doing that when I was a kid. I never saw the appeal."
Vic smiled.
"Me either."
Cady sipped her beer and looked at Vic.
"So, how are things with you guys?"
Vic raised her eyes from her meal.
"Good, why?"
Cady gave her a knowing look.
"You sound like dad. Every time I ask, he just says things are good."
"Well, they are. You looking for a different answer?"
Cady shook her head.
"No. I'm glad you're both happy."
Vic gave her a curious look.
"I feel like you're trying to get at something. So…what's up?"
Cady shrugged.
"I was just wondering if you've talked about marriage?"
Vic nearly choked as she swallowed.
"Marriage. Where did that come from?"
The question held clear surprise.
"I don't mean to overstep. It's just that…you've been together for a while now. Knowing my dad, I'm surprised he hasn't asked you to marry him."
Vic cocked her head at Cady.
"Did Walt say something to you?"
Cady shook her head.
"No, like I said, he never tells me anything. But…you didn't answer my question. Have you discussed marriage at all?"
Vic bit her lip.
"We have some."
Cady's blue eyes stayed on her.
"You're not interested?"
Vic frowned, shifting uncomfortably in her seat.
"This is…awkward as hell."
Cady gave her a reassuring smile.
"Sorry. I'm not trying to get in your business. I just want you to be happy."
Vic returned the smile.
"We are."
Vic leaned in a little.
"Mind if I ask you something personal since you're all up in my business?"
Cady grinned at her.
"Sure, why not?"
"What happened with you and Zach?"
It was clearly the question Cady was expecting, although she did seem to deflate a bit at the mention of his name. Cady swirled her bottle around slightly, her eyes dropping to it.
"Um…a mutual parting of the ways."
Vic grew serious.
"Seriously?"
Cady sighed, her shoulders drooping a bit.
"It's not easy for a man to work for the woman he's seeing. That is what I've learned from this. It wasn't any one thing. And, it's not really his fault. It's…hard juggling relationships and jobs and all that. It's even harder when there's no real separation."
Vic nodded.
"Tell me about it."
Cady's eyes settled on her.
"How did you and dad do it?"
Vic tapped one finger on her bottle.
"Well, he decided to retire. So…we didn't do it for very long."
"Still."
"It is hard. A new relationship is hard enough without all that added shit piled on. I know what you're saying. I hate that it messed you guys up. Zach's a good guy."
Cady smiled sadly.
"Yes, he is. And whatever lady lands him will be very lucky. It's just…not me. It really was mutual. Like I said, I don't blame him for it. At least we can still work together."
"True."
Cady looked down at her bottle again, something seemingly lingering on her mind. Vic studied her.
"What's up?"
Lifting her eyes, Cady met Vic's.
"It just seems like I'll never find someone. You know. It was nice having someone to go to after work who understood. Talk. Decompress."
Vic gave her a sympathetic look.
"I do know. Believe me. But, you can't waste your life waiting for a guy. It'll happen. Just live your life and keep your eyes open."
Cady drummed her fingers on the table.
"I know we're supposed to be independent women. But, there's still something about having that person who's just yours."
Cady leaned back and pasted a smile on her face, looking around the bar.
"Thanks for inviting me to dinner. This has been fun. We don't get enough time to talk. Dad coming back tomorrow?"
Vic nodded.
"Yeah."
Both stood, their chairs scraping the floor. Cady reached for the bill, but Vic waved her off.
"I'll get it. It was my idea."
Cady started to argue but changed tactics.
"Fine, but you have to let me get the tip."
"Deal."
Cady pulled out some bills and laid them on the table. Pulling her coat from her chair, she glanced at Vic.
"Want me to wait for you?"
Vic shook her head.
"Nah, go on. I'll be done here in a few minutes."
Cady nodded and zipped up her coat.
"See you tomorrow."
Turning, she disappeared through the swinging doors. Vic paid the bill and pulled on her own coat, knowing it was uncomfortably cold outside. Tucking her hands into her pockets, feeling the cool metal of her keys, Vic walked slowly outside.
Scanning the parking lot, she noticed that Cady was already gone. Her eyes fell on her truck as she crossed the lot. The headlights of two cars passing on the road briefly flashed over her, before the brightness dissolved.
Vic paused as she approached the truck, noticing a figure standing between her driver's side door and another truck parked beside her. He must've seen her, because he stepped out slowly and she could see the smile on Will Cain's face.
"Evening, Deputy. Or is it Victoria since you're not in uniform?"
His boots made a scuffling noise on the loose gravel. Vic's eyes met his.
"Get away from my truck."
He held up his hands innocently.
"I didn't touch your precious truck. I was heading in to get a bite to eat and realized you were here. Thought you might not appreciate me crashing your dinner. Figured I'd wait out here. Where's Walt?"
He looked around and then lowered his voice as though he were going to tell her a secret.
"If you were mine, I'd never let you out of my sight."
Vic's jaw flexed underneath her skin and her hand moved to her back pocket where her phone was. He watched the movement.
"Not armed, huh? Gonna call the police? Oh, wait…you are the police."
He smiled and snapped his fingers. Vic kept her eyes on him.
"Like I said, get away from my truck."
He took two steps away from the truck and towards her. Vic held her ground, her body coiled tight.
"Sure. Also, I wanted to apologize for the other night. I'll admit…I'm a prick when I'm drunk."
Vic huffed.
"Right."
Cain changed his direction and began to move in a semi-circle around her. Vic kept turning as he moved, keeping her eyes on him. He tipped his cap to her.
"I'll just be on my way. See you around."
"Let's hope not."
The words came out dripping with sarcasm. He smiled again and moved by her, sidestepping at the last minute causing his arm to brush hers.
"It's a small town. We're…bound to run into each other."
With that, he turned away from her and walked towards the Red Pony.