Torn

by Bluebird0032

Mark finds himself torn between his badge, his Pa, and the woman he loves. This is a three-part story that could come after the events of, "The Principle," but is not necessarily connected to any other stories. Updated 11-13-2020 to fix typos.

2. Chapter 2

8MC8

Startling awake from the sound of the door being slammed, Mark opened his eyes to see Lucas taking long strides towards him. Worriedly looking his son over, Lucas rested one hand on the bed while he put his other hand on Mark's shoulder.

"Mark, are you alright, Son?"

"I think I'll live," Mark half-heartedly teased, his head still ringing from the door being slammed.

"How do you feel? You look like you're in a lot of pain." As Lucas spoke, he turned a chair around and sat, straddling it with his legs.

"I am," Mark answered with a heavy sigh. "Between what happened on the cattle drive and then whatever happened out on the trail, I feel like I've been through the wringer."

"Whatever happened? You mean you don't remember what happened with the posse?"

"When I first woke up, all I could remember was us talking about me coming home. I've started remembering a little bit here or there since, but the last thing I can remember right now is getting Thumper from the stock car. Micah told me what happened with the posse, but none of it is ringing a bell. Doc said I should eventually remember."

"Micah chew you out for going with the posse, or decide to wait until your memory returns?"

"I think he was going to, but we came to an understanding." Mark nervously glanced at Lucas, waiting for him to explode. "…But I suppose you're mad enough for the two of you?"

"Mad enough for the two of us?" Lucas inquired in confusion. "What are you talking about?"

Mark returned Lucas's confused stare before asking, "You mean you're not angry with me?"

"Angry?" Lucas suddenly shook his head as he let out a small chuckle. "No, Son, I'm not angry; not with you. Mark, you and I have been through a lot since your mother died. It's always been my job to protect you. But the day Micah pinned that badge on you was the day I realized I didn't need to do the protecting anymore; I realized you had grown up and become a man who could take care of himself. That was a hard pill for me to swallow, but I had to swallow it. Granted, there are times I will step in, like with the cattle drive, but you know your limits and if you had truly believed you were in good enough shape to finish the drive, I know I wouldn't have gotten you to agree to come home. Leading the posse was not only your choice, but your duty as Micah's deputy. Now, no one would have batted an eye if you had decided to stay in North Fork and had someone else lead the posse; maybe that's what you should have done. But it remained your choice, and you chose to go after those men who had not only robbed the bank, but were also threatening the well being of a man you well respect. I can't stand here and get angry at you for doing something I would have done, and I can't get upset at you because you grew up to be the man I raised you to be. No, I'm not angry with you. I'm angry with the men that shot you, but not with you. I don't care if you're fifty years old; I'll always worry about you, Son. You're not a child, but you will always be "my" child. So until the day I die, I reserve the right to worry about you and tell you when I think you're wrong. But you're also a man, and I respect the decisions you make as a man. I would just appreciate it if those decisions didn't end with you getting shot every time."

Mark was quiet for several moments as he looked at his Pa. At first he was thoroughly confused and surprised by his Pa's response. Then Mark found himself humbled by his Pa's words. For the first time, Mark felt as though his Pa understood him as a man, not a child.

"…Thanks, Pa," Mark finally said. "That means a lot… a whole lot coming from you. …To be honest, I never was really sure about how you felt about me picking up the badge. I mean, you gave me your blessing… but I wasn't sure if you were actually happy about it or not."

"Happy? Mark, I couldn't be prouder. The day Micah deputized you, I realized I hadn't lost my little boy, but that my little boy had matured into a man to be proud of. You wear your badge and carry your rifle with commitment, and honor, and integrity. Being a lawman is part of who you are and I wouldn't dare want that taken away from you. Now, I certainly miss your help around the ranch when you get called off," Lucas teased, "But I am proud of the life you live."

"I wouldn't be here if it hadn't been for you, Pa. All the lessons you taught me growing up, all the mistakes you let me make even though you knew better… they made me who I am. And I couldn't imagine living this life without you."

"We've been blessed, that's for sure."

"So the cattle, did they do well?"

"We made about three hundred more than last year, if that answered your question."

"Three hundred?! We didn't have that many more heads, did we?"

"No, but between the additional cattle we did have, the stock price going up, and some very wealthy buyers, we definitely got our money's worth this year."

"How's Sam doing, with his shoulder?"

"About that," Lucas chuckled, "So after we sold the cattle, we went over to the saloon, just for something to eat. Well Sam bumped into this one hand…"

On the other side of the door, Micah and Doc eventually heard laughter emanating from Mark's room. They looked at each other in confusion as Micah scratched the back of his head.

"What'd you do, Doc? Give Mark something to make him delusional?"

"Maybe I did," Doc answered in bewilderment. "Either that or the two of us are going insane. Lucas should've exploded about five minutes ago."

"Sam's gonna be out of commission for a few weeks, but by the way he looked when he got the nurse to take care of him over at the clinic, I don't think he minds it too much."

"Bet he was glad the nurse didn't see him tripping over three tables and into the piano."

"She may not have seen that, but he was pretty drunk," Lucas laughed. "She was sweet enough about it though, and after he sobered up she didn't say a word about some of the things he had said while he was drunk." The rancher glanced at the time piece before going on, "Well I don't know about you, but I'm hungry. And I'm sure even if you're not hungry, you need something. I'm going to head over to the hotel and get us something to eat."

"Thanks, Pa."

Lucas patted Mark's leg as he stood before leaving the room. He saw the way Micah and Doc were staring at him and looked back at them in confusion.

"…What's wrong?"

"…Nothing's wrong, we just…" Micah was at a loss for words. "…Those conversations don't usually end in laughter between the two of you."

Understanding what the men had thought, Lucas shook his head and answered as he walked out the door, "He had to grow up sometime. No use trying to stop something that happened years ago."

Lucas crossed the street and headed for the hotel, where he immediately saw Lou rushing towards him. Before he could get a word in, Lou started her rant.

"Now Lucas, I know Mark's your son and ya have every right to be concerned about 'im, but ya also 'ave to understand that Mark is a deputy, a fine deputy fer Micah and fer this town! He was only doin' his duty as an officer of the law and a friend of Stephan's. So ya can't go and get upset at Mark for simply behavin' as ya raised him. He's a grown man with responsibilities and ideals and ya can't be mother henin' him all the time! One day you'll look back and wished ya would've taken the time to appreciate Mark for the stage he's at in life because all too soon it'll be gone and ya won't be able to get it back. So please, for the sake of the both of ya, don't go and say anythin' that would be doin' permanent damage to your relationship! The two of ya love each other so much, there's no point in sayin' words that can't be taken back!"

"Fair enough," Lucas replied with a chuckle. "How about fixing me and that fine deputy something to eat?"

"Aren't ya goin' ta argue with me?"

"No point in arguing when you're right; even if it isn't any of your business."

"None of my- Lucas McCain, I'll have you know that it's plenty of my business! You and Mark are my friends, good friends and I wouldn't be much of a friend if I stood by at let you do somethin' ya would regret! And I certainly…" Lou quieted as she saw the look in Lucas's eyes. "Well… I suppose it isn't exactly my business but… I'm sorry, Lucas. It's just you and Mark mean so much to me and sometimes… well you and Micah hover over him more than is needed. I didn't want to see a rift start between you two, like it has in the past. But you're right, it certainly isn't any of my business and I'll stay out of it."

"I appreciate your concern, Lou. I know after Mark initially picked up the badge I overstepped my bounds some, but we worked that through. Like I told Mark, the day Micah made him deputy was the day I realized I didn't have a little boy who needed protecting anymore."

"I'll fix you some steak and potatoes and heat some more broth for Mark. I'll bring it over when it's ready and it's on the house tonight, no arguments."

"Thanks, Lou."

Lucas went back over to the clinic to find Micah and Doc still talking. As he took a seat across from the men he took off his hat and waited for a good time to interrupt.

"So really Doc, how bad is he?"

"Lucas he didn't do that ankle of his any favors and his head is rattled. His side will take a few weeks to heal and it'll be sore for quite some time. I'd give him four weeks before he can start doing a little bit around the ranch, but I don't want him chopping wood for at least six."

"When can I take him home?"

"That I'm not sure about yet, I still need to watch him, he only woke up this afternoon." The concern showed on Lucas's face, but he didn't say anything. "If everything is fine for two days, I'd suggest seeing Lou about getting him a room at the hotel. Maybe we can talk about him going home about a week after that. But again, no ranch work and no deputing until I say so."

"And just how do you expect me to keep him in bed all day?" Lucas asked with a laugh.

"I honestly don't think the first few weeks will be much of a problem; he's in a world of hurt right now. Maybe Micah can give him some of that paperwork that's piling up on his desk."

"Mark and I already talked about that," Micah stated. "He was looking for things to do five minutes after he woke up. I'll be sure to send plenty of paperwork over to keep him busy."

"You have four weeks worth?" Lucas asked. "I give him three weeks before he's sneaking work in around the ranch, behind my back."

"three?" Micah inquired. "Two at the most."

"He'll stay put until I give him a clean bill of health," Doc informed. "I'll have Lucas lace his water with medicine to make him sleep if I have to. His body needs rest."

All three men turned as they heard from the other room, "I CAN hear you, you know!"

9MC9

Mark continued to improve and two days later he found himself settled in a hotel room, far enough back so he wouldn't be disturbed by the hotel guests. Lou checked on him frequently while Lucas was working at the ranch and more often than not, found him peacefully asleep.

One evening, Lucas returned to the hotel room to find Mark rousing from a sound sleep.

"Well, look who finally decided to wake up," Lucas teased as he set his rifle in the corner.

"When did I fall asleep?" Mark asked as he tried to stifle a yawn. "I don't understand why I'm so tired…"

"Doc said it was to be expected. You forget you banged your head up pretty bad before you went and rode on a posse, before you got shot. And to answer your question, after lunch."

"But it's nearly four-thirty; why did you let me sleep so long?"

"Because you're exhausted and you need the rest. Give yourself time, it hasn't even been a week since you got shot. You'll have plenty of time to get things done after you've rested."

"Do you still have that town council meeting tonight?"

"In about a half hour. We can get something to eat now or wait until the meeting is over."

"If you're not hungry, I'd rather wait until the meeting's over… less people down stairs."

Lucas sat on the bed beside his son as he spoke, "You know, Mark, there's nothing to be ashamed of in your injuries. It's alright to let people see that you're human and you can get hurt. You're going to have to face people, eventually."

"…But I let them down, Pa."

"Mark, what on earth are you talking about?" Lucas asked in confusion. "You let no one down."

"I let Micah down, I let the town down, and I let myself down. My intentions were to get the money and Stephan back, and a lot of money was lost because I wasn't paying attention and got myself shot. If I had been better engaged… if I hadn't let my guard down…"

"Hold it, Mark. First of all, Micah and this town are both proud of you; you took two bullets in the line of duty. Your intentions were good, and you did your best to fulfill those intentions. The money wasn't lost because of you, and you don't know that you weren't paying attention."

"I do, Pa. I started remembering some yesterday afternoon and then most of it came back today. I let my guard down after the other two men left because I figured the outlaws were well gone and… and to be honest, I couldn't think straight. I should've known better than to go out there… if I hadn't been there, someone else would have been with Stephan and the money-"

"Mark, regardless of what could have happened the money was money and that can always be replaced. If you hadn't been there, John Hamilton told me they probably wouldn't have found Stephan. Your brain might have been in a fog, but they could have sneaked up on anyone else just as easily. You know how simple it is to walk up right behind someone without their knowing it; you've been doing that to me since you could walk," Lucas light-heartedly teased. "Mark, there's no reason you should be disappointed in yourself. You did your job and your duty the best you could. At that point, it wasn't even necessarily either one considering the condition you were in when the posse left town. You're being too hard on yourself, Son." Still seeing the discouragement in his son's eyes, Lucas went on, "Mark, there's nothing anyone could've done any differently. You got shot and it is what it is; you can't sit here feeling sorry for yourself."

"I'm not feeling sorry for myself!" Mark exclaimed as he sat up a little more.

Lucas sat there quietly, letting Mark's temper diffuse before he went on, "You're well headed in that direction, Mark. I can see it and I don't want you going down that road. I've let myself do that too many times in the past and I can't sit here and say nothing while I watch you make the same mistakes I have. It's alright to be vulnerable. We're all vulnerable. Just accept what happened and learn to move on; there's nothing more you can do, Mark."

"…Pa, what am I supposed to move on with? It's not like Micah's gonna really want me back as his deputy, or like I'm gonna be any use on the ranch for a long while."

"Mark, just give it some time. And of course Micah wants you back as his deputy, he's told you himself. Actually, you never weren't his deputy in the first place and while it may be awhile before you can get back to pulling cows out of the mud, that doesn't mean you're useless."

"And if I do put the badge on again? What about the next time I get shot or… or what if-"

"Mark, you're not going to get killed." Lucas let out a heavy sigh as he put his hand on his son's shoulder, now beginning to see the whole picture. "The first time I got shot as a deputy, shortly after I married your Ma, I got to the same place you're at. I was scared about picking up that badge again and I was scared of getting myself killed. Your Ma had to put up with quite a grump for about a month before she finally realized what was going on and talked some sense into me. Son, your mother helped me realize that I was trying to blame the badge for something it couldn't take credit for. She reminded me that deputized or not, I would have gotten into the same situation because I was trying to help people I cared about. That badge had nothing to do with who I was or what I was willing to stand up for, and it doesn't have anything to do with who you are or what you're willing to stand up for. Facing death is frightening, and I don't blame you one bit for being scared. But you can't blame the badge, Mark. You knew this day would eventually come when you decided to pick up the badge, but you can't blame it. If you hadn't been Micah's deputy and stepped off the train to find the same situation, you still would've been on that posse and you would still be lying here. Life is what it is, Son, and we can't be afraid of that. Use your badge as a tool to stop people like the men that shot you, but don't run from the badge because you're afraid of getting hurt. Courage isn't ever about not being afraid. It's about rising above those fears and facing them."

"…I know," Mark replied as he nodded his head. "Thanks for reminding me, Pa. Deep down I knew everything you said, but… but I suppose I just lost sight of it."

"We all lose sight of it sometimes." Lucas patted his son's shoulder. "If we're gonna wait to eat I reckon I should probably go help set up for the meeting. If you need anything while I'm gone-"

"I'll be fine, Pa. Have a good time," Mark teased.

Mark read for the next several hours, waiting for the council meeting to finish. Ten minutes after seven, Mark decided to head down to the lobby and wait for Lucas to get back. When he reached the bottom of the stairs, he had hardly taken two steps before Lou called from the desk, "Now Deputy, just what do you think you're doin' down 'ere? Ya should be back up in that room restin', not walkin' around, asking for somethin' else ta get hurt!"

"Weren't you the one who gave Micah and Pa a big speech about not hovering over me?"

"They're men and that's different. Now again, what, my I ask, are ya doin' down 'ere?"

"Just waiting for Pa, Lou," Mark chuckled as he walked to the desk. "We're supposed to have dinner after the town council meeting and I figured he should be getting back some time soon. Besides, a little exercise will do me some good; I can't just waste away upstairs."

"Oh, here we go… It's not even been a week and you're already gettin' yourself into mischief. What is your father goin' ta do with ya when it's time fer you ta go home?"

"Excuse me?" Mark and Lou turned around to see a woman standing behind them, trunk in hand. She had brown eyes and soft, brown hair piled into a fancy bun; a few loose curls lined both sides of her slightly pink cheeks. "I do apologize for interrupting, but I was wondering if either of you knew where I could find Lucas McCain?"

Lou waited for Mark to speak up, but when he didn't she glanced at him to see him lost in the woman's small smile. She fought the urge to chuckle before replying, "I'm Lou Mallory, I own this hotel. Lucas is in a meetin' right now, should be back soon. This is his son, Mark."

Hearing his name, Mark slightly jumped before removing his hat and introducing himself, "I'm Mark, Mark McCain. You're looking for my father? I didn't realize he was expecting someone."

The woman gracefully smiled and shook Mark and Lou's hands as she replied, "He's not expecting me in particular, just the new school teacher. I was told to ask for him when I got here and the man at the train station said to try the hotel."

"Did something happen to the other teacher?" Mark inquired.

"Other teacher?" She asked. "I thought I was the only one to respond to the inquiry."

"We were expecting a man… Joe Pierce," Lou explained as she looked at the reservation Micah had made a few days prior.

"Oh heavens, he did it again…" the woman cupped her mouth with her hand before quietly chuckling and shaking her head. "I do apologize. I'm Joanna Pierce, and I was back in my home town when I replied to the telegram. Our operator has known me since I was a little girl and everyone called me Jo back then. More than once Mr. Thomas has signed my name as "Jo" instead of "Joanna" on a telegram. It's caused a bit of confusion in the past. I am here for the teaching position, but I do understand, if you weren't expecting a woman…"

"No that's alright," Mark quickly assured. "We haven't had a female teacher for probably eight years, but this town certainly has nothing against it. We'd be very grateful if you'd still be willing to fill the position for us, we certainly don't want to have to close the school down."

"I'd be absolutely delighted. I was worried I wouldn't be able to teach at all this year with my mother having passed away and me not being able to look for an opening. Even if it is just temporary, I would love to be of service."

"My Pa should be here soon and we were planning on having supper in the restaurant, if you'd like to join us after you get settled in your room? I'm sure you're hungry after the train ride."

"Thank you very much, I'd appreciate that. Miss Mallory, I was told arrangements had been made for me to stay here at the hotel?"

"Most certainly. I'll help you get settled in and then let you freshen up before you join Mark and his father for supper."

"What room, Lou?" Mark inquired. "I can take her trunk up and-"

"Deputy McCain, you had surgery less than a week ago and are in no condition to be lifting! You go park yourself in that restaurant and wait for your father."

"Surgery?" The woman asked in alarm. "Are you alright?"

"I'm fine, it wasn't anything serious."

"I'd say gettin' shot twice is serious! Now you get goin' before I make Micah lock you up."

The woman watched the deputy raise his hands before tipping his hat at the young woman and walking towards the restaurant.

"I would have never guessed that he just had surgery; you said he was shot? …I'm sorry, I don't mean to be inquisitive, I just… I had no idea…"

"Don't apologize," Lou assured as she turned the register around for the woman to sign. "Mark's a fine deputy and when our bank was robbed last week he went after the outlaws, even though he had been thrown from his horse on a cattle drive and sent home to rest. The outlaws had taken our teacher, Stephan Griswold, as hostage. They found him injured, but alone. The men went to get some water from the creek when the outlaws came back and found Mark with Stephan. They shot him twice; grazing his head and hitting his side. The bullet was in there for about a day before our doctor got it out."

"And the limp?" She inquired as Lou started to show her upstairs to her room. "I noticed he favored his right leg as he walked."

"He did that on the cattle drive as well, but it still didn't stop him from leading the posse. From what I hear, they never would have found Stephan if Mark hadn't been out there, but it'll be a while before he's fully functional again. I don't envy Lucas, trying to keep Mark from over doing it. Mark's a good man who always wants to be doing; he doesn't know when to rest."

"That sounds like my mother," Joanna smiled in reply. "Your town is very lucky to have a deputy like him. …The teacher, how does he feel about my being here?"

"Don't let Stephan get to you," Lou chuckled as she opened a hotel room door for Miss Pierce. "He wouldn't trust anyone with his students and isn't happy about being laid up, either. The rest of us are more than grateful to have you here and if you need anything, just let us know."

"Thank you very much. I will admit I was a bit nervous about coming to a strange town, not knowing anyone; but from what I've seen I think I will enjoy my time here very much. You and the deputy have already made me feel so welcome."

"Well, while you're here North Fork is your home and we want you to feel welcome. I'll leave you the freshen up." Lou handed Joanna the key to her room with a smile before shutting the door behind her.

10MC10

Lucas walked into the hotel lobby and glanced into the restaurant to find Mark sitting at one of the tables.

"Mark, what are you doing down here?" Lucas asked as he took a seat beside his son. "You should've waited for help."

"I'm fine, Pa, it did me some good to walk around on my own. I hope you don't mind, but the new school teacher arrived this evening and I invited her to join us for supper, seeing as how she was looking for you, and being new to town and all."

"She?" Lucas inquired in confusion. "I thought it was a man? Micah said a Joe Pierce responded to the telegram."

"It was a Jo Pierce, Joanna Pierce. The town telegraph operator made a mistake when he sent the wire, seeing as how everyone calls her "Jo" back where she grew up. She was worried that since we were expecting a man we wouldn't want her to fill the position, but I assured her it wasn't a problem. Lou was helping her settle in her room and she should be down here any minute."

"Well I'm glad you and Lou were here to welcome her." As Lucas looked at his son, he saw a look in Mark's eyes that hadn't been there in a long time; a look indicating his son was up to something.

"Say, Pa," Mark began as he licked his lips, "Seeing as how tomorrow's Sunday, you were planning on us going to church, weren't you?"

"Yes, I was; Doc mentioned tonight that it might be a good idea for you to get out a little. Why do you ask?"

"...Just seeing what your thoughts were," Mark innocently replied.

"Mark, I know you and that look in your eyes tells me you weren't just making conversation."

"Well, I guess I was also thinking that maybe, since I am the town deputy and I was in school not too long ago, it would be a good idea for me to show Miss Pierce around the school tomorrow. I mean it wouldn't be fair just to dump her into a classroom she's never been in before, with a bunch of students she doesn't know."

"And you think that much walking around is going to be good on your side, not to mention your ankle?"

"My ankle is fine, Pa, and you said yourself Doc said it might be good for me to get out a little."

"Yes, a little. I think church-" Lucas stopped short as he and Mark turned to see a beautiful young woman approach their table. Both men stood and before his son could get to it, Lucas pulled out a chair for the woman. "You must be Miss Pierce, our new school teacher. I'm Lucas McCain, and I think you've met my son, Mark."

"Yes, I have. The deputy and Miss Mallory were both ever so helpful. I do apologize for the misunderstanding about my being a woman…"

"No problem at all," Lucas assured as he and Mark sat back down. "The entire town is grateful you were willing to take the position."

"It was my pleasure."

The woman continued to hold a graceful smile as they conversed, and Lucas could now see what his son was up to.

"I was told to get into contact with you as soon as I arrived in North Fork, but I apologize for intruding on your dinner."

"No intrusion at all," Lucas answered. "After supper I'll give you the keys to the school house and if you would like…" Lucas slightly hesitated before going on, "...Mark and I can show you around the schoolhouse tomorrow afternoon between services and lunch, if you would like to join us, the marshal, and Miss Mallory."

"Services?" The woman inquired.

"You do go to church?" Lucas asked.

"Oh, of course," the woman chuckled, "Forgive me, it's been a terribly long day and I suppose I am a little tired."

"How long have you been teaching, Miss Pierce?" Mark inquired.

"I started in my hometown, when I was about sixteen. Our former teacher died and I was all we had. We had someone more qualified come out the next year, allowing me to receive some more formal instruction, and I spent last year teaching in California. When my mother took ill I went to take care of here until she passed away, and then I heard about the opening here. Again, I'm very grateful for this opportunity."

"We're glad to have you here," Mark told her. "I am sorry to hear about your mother."

"I miss her dearly, but I am happy to know she's in a better place."

"Was she originally from New Mexico?"

"None of us were, actually. My parents were both from Oklahoma and I was born there. We moved here shortly after my father passed away to live with my grandparents. After they passed on we stayed put, mother having a job there already."

"What part of Oklahoma?" Lucas inquired. "Mark was born in Enid."

"We were just south of you then, in Oklahoma City. Did you enjoy Oklahoma?" She asked of Mark.

"... I don't recall much. We moved shortly after I turned six. But it will always be home, in its special way; my mother is buried there."

"I can understand. I was around the same age when my father passed away. But I've loved New Mexico since the day we arrived. The land is so beautiful; the way the hills roll and how the sunsets paint the evening sky… it's breathtaking." The woman quietly laughed, "I'm sorry, I don't mean to go on."

"Don't apologize, it is good country," Mark agreed.

It wasn't long before the waitress came to take their order. As they waited for the food, Lucas listened as the two young adults conversed. As Lucas ate, he watched as the food on his son and Miss Pierce's plates got cold. After waiting some time, Lucas asked for the bill.

"Miss Pierce, it was wonderful meeting you and enjoying your company, but I have some things to attend to. I'll see you in church tomorrow. Mark, I'll see you when you come up."

"Goodnight, Mr. McCain."

"Goodnight, Pa."

Lucas waited until he was out of the restaurant to let out a chuckle.

"And what tis so hilarious, Lucas McCain?" Lou asked, looking up from the desk.

"What, you didn't notice?" Lucas asked as he looked back into the restaurant.

"I noticed the moment she came in the door," Lou answered with a smile. "I just wasn't sure if you would catch on."

"I could hardly get two words in after the introductions were made. I can't believe that's my son in there…"

"And what's so hard to believe Lucas? Can't a young man of Mark's age find himself attracted to a beautiful, polite young woman?"

"Oh he can, it was just that two weeks ago Mark swore he wasn't going to get married for a long time."

"Well as ya know, women have a way of changin' a man's mind."

"That they do," Lucas laughed in response.

"How was the council meetin'?"

"Just about as long, boring, and frustrating as any other. But I did hear that there's a barn dance over at the Davis ranch coming up in about three weeks…"

"Oh is there?" Lou asked as she leaned over her books.

"And I was wondering if you would save me a dance, for old time's sake."

"I suppose I could try ta squeeze ya in," Lou answered with a smile.

"Squeeze me in between what, the apple pie and fried chicken?"

"Lucas McCain!"

Turning to leave while he could, Lucas called, "Have a goodnight Lou!"

Lou couldn't help but let a frustrated smile creep onto her face as Lucas left the hotel and headed for the marshal's office.

As Lucas entered the office he found Micah pouring himself a cup of coffee.

"Howdy, Lucas-Boy. What brings you by?"

"Well Mark's a little preoccupied this evening so I figured I'd come by and keep you company."

"Preoccupied? I thought you two were having dinner together."

"We did, but he invited the new school teacher to join us. Turns out Jo Pierce is really a Miss Joanna Pierce, a young Joanna Pierce who my son has taken quite a shine to."

"Well, it's about time that boy takes a shine to someone," Micah laughed. "You want some coffee? Fresh pot."

"Sure."

As Micah poured his friend a cup of coffee, he went on, "I take it Mark's doing fine if he's up to entertaining guests?"

"Overall he's doing pretty good. He still hurts a lot, but that will just take time."

"Lucas, when he first woke up he was a bit shaken about getting shot. How's he been with that?"

"We had a good discussion this afternoon. He was scared and a little more than a bit shaken, but I think he's coming out of it. Miss Pierce has definitely seemed to speed that process up."

Both men turned their heads when someone came running into the office.

"Micah, a brawl broke out at Sweeney's!"

"Want some help?" Lucas offered.

"Thanks. Eli, we'll be right over…"

11MC11

Sunday afternoon came, Lucas insisting he walk Mark and Joanna to the schoolhouse, concerned his son might overdo himself. For the rest of the afternoon, Lucas watched as his son and the school teacher engaged in light hearted conversation; oblivious to everyone else.

As the days passed, Mark became stronger and was walking around more and more. While Lucas was at the ranch, Lou often caught Mark sneaking out of the hotel, right around lunch time and shortly before the children were dismissed from school.

One afternoon, Lou was working at the front desk when Lucas returned from the ranch.

"Howdy, Lou. Mark up in his room?"

"No, but I'll give ya two guesses as to where he could be," Lou answered with a sparkle in her eye.

"The schoolhouse?" Lucas answered with a chuckle as he shook his head, Lou nodding with a smile. "It's like he's ten years old again. I don't know how long it's been since I've seen that much of a gleam in my son's eye."

"I don't know what he's goin' ta do when Doc releases 'im to go home."

"Well he best come up with something, I just finished talking to Doc and he wants to see Mark this evening. If everything checks out alright, I can take him home tomorrow morning."

"I'm glad, Lucas… I really was worried about him when they first brought him in."

"Well thankfully that whole mess is just about behind us. Now I just get to deal with him for two or three weeks around the ranch."

"The ranch?" Mark asked as he walked up behind them.

"Good timing, Mark. We need to get you over to Doc Burrage's, he wants to see if he can let you go home tomorrow."

"Oh…" Mark replied, allowing more disappointment in his face than he meant to.

"Come on, Son," Lucas said as he slapped his son's shoulder. "Let's get this over with."

Lucas followed his son to Doc's office and they waited as the physician finished with another patient. After Mrs. Baker left, Doc welcomed them into the back room.

"Well, Mark, how are you feeling today?" The doctor asked as Mark unbuttoned his shirt.

"Pretty good, all things considered."

"Are you still feeling nauseous in the mornings?" Burrage inquired as he examined the bullet wound.

"Some, but not near as bad as in the beginning."

"And how about your head? Do you still have migraines?"

"Again, not as bad, but yes."

"And how's your medal of honor down here been feeling?"

"Well I wouldn't go so far as to call it a medal of honor, but it's still sore when I stretch or move just right. Itches more than anything."

"Alright, if you promise to take it easy I'll let Lucas take you home tomorrow. But you are to take it easy. No chores, no riding BlueBoy, and absolutely no driving the team. Pulling on those reigns aren't going to do the pain in your side any favors, you hear?"

"Yeah, I hear…" Mark sighed. "Thanks for saving my life, again, Doc."

"It was certainly my pleasure. Just keep putting that salve on your scars and don't be afraid to use that pain medicine I gave you."

"Doc, about the barn dance at the Davis' coming up in a few weeks…"

"You can go and put some meat on those bones of yours, but absolutely no dancing. If you're anything like your father, you'll pull all your stitches out by the end of the first song!"

Mark and Doc had a good laugh as Lucas glared at Doc with a disapproving frown; but he couldn't hold it for long. The tall rancher soon joined in the laughter before putting a hand on his son's shoulder.

"Well, Son, if you're going to have dinner with Miss Pierce I suggest you head back over to the hotel."

"How did you know I was taking Joanna to dinner?"

"You've spent every night this week together, I figured that was kind of obvious, especially since you already knew I had plans with John Hamilton this evening."

"We haven't spent every night together," Mark defensively answered. Lucas and Doc both raised their eyebrows at the young deputy as Mark though over the last week. "…We weren't together Sunday night…"

"Thanks, Doc," Lucas chuckled as he slapped his son's back. "Mark, we best get going."

That evening, Mark waited in the hotel lobby for Joanna to arrive before escorting her into the hotel restaurant. They enjoyed the evening, doing more talking than eating. During a lull in the conversation, two other customers passed their table talking about the Indian uprisings.

"…If I read one more article about the government complaining about another Indian uprising instead of doing something about it, I think I might scream," Joanna commented as she turned to Mark. "I don't know why they think talking is going to anyone any good."

"What exactly do you mean, do something about it?" Mark inquired, unsure if he wanted to delve into a very sensitive political topic, especially when he wasn't sure of Joanna's position.

"I mean actually make peace and stop treating those poor people like animals. It's absolutely shameful the way they herd them together and force them to sit on the reservations. It's their land! I wouldn't blame them for uprising the way the women and children are separated from their families…" She briefly paused before quieting some, "Wouldn't you agree…?"

"I couldn't agree more," Mark answered with relief. "It's like they forgot a whole war was just fought over men's rights. They may live differently than us, they may speak another language, but they're man just the same. They're not perfect, no one is. Most of the time the Indians can be very peaceful people, if they're not provoked into war."

"It makes my stomach turn. I had a friend once, in an Indian tribe. She was the sweetest, most thoughtful person I ever knew. Then the government came and took her away from her family. I never heard from her again. Her family never saw her again. Her son grew up with no mother."

"It's not right and I can't wait for the day when we'll all be able to stand together, side by side, as brothers. That day may be a long time in coming, but hopefully one day it will get here. Slowly, progress is being made. My Pa and I have an Indian friend who is a U.S. Marshal."

"I can't imagine what he had to go through to get there."

"It's not easy for him all the time. The first time he came here, there was quite a bit of resistance. But people came to understand that he was a man, deserving as much respect as Micah or any other fine lawman."

"And you."

"I'm just a small town deputy, I couldn't measure up to half the man Marshal Buckhart is."

"Couldn't measure up? Mark, you took two bullets in the line of duty. You risked your neck to save Stephan Griswold, and try to get the money back for the bank."

"But I was just doing my job. Micah would've done the same thing."

"But not everyone would have done the same thing. And the measure of a man isn't just about heroics; it's about his values, his morals. His integrity. Helping out at the Grady's this summer while Mr. Grady was away wasn't part of your job, and neither was fixing the Young's roof while they were visiting family back east."

"How did you know about that?" Mark asked in surprise. "In fact, just how did you know about either of those things?"

"I know a lot of things about you, Deputy McCain," the woman replied with a teasing smile.

"But I asked Ryan not to say anything about the roofing supplies; I told him-"

"Now don't you start getting your dander up, Mr. Benn didn't say a word to me about the Young's roof. Or the fact that you go check on the widow an hour from town every week."

Mark gave her a strange, confused look as he tried to understand how she knew these things.

"You have eyes watching you Mark," she softly spoke. "Young, impressionable eyes that see the good you do in this town; eyes that look up to you."

"What are you talking about?"

"The first day of school, I asked the children to write me one page about who they wanted to be like when they grew up. One name kept popping up in the boys' papers. Your name."

Mark still sat staring at Joanna, shocked and not quite believing what she was telling him.

"As I got to know you, I wasn't surprised one bit. I see the way you interact with them when you stop by the schoolhouse. You take the time to make them feel important and special. You're never too busy to answer a question or tell a story. In the papers I read, several boys wrote about how you were a good deputy and they bragged on how good you were with the rifle, but in every paper I can think of, they talked about something you did or do for the people of this town, not because you have to, but because you care about people. Mark, these boys look up to you and admire you. Mark, in those boys' minds, you're ten feet taller than the president himself. You measure up just fine, don't cut yourself short."

Mark sat there speechless for a few moments before finally responding, "Every child idolizes somebody in their life, and usually it's someone with a badge…"

"You're impossible to compliment, you know that?" Mark and Joanna slightly chuckled before she went on, "Seriously, Mark, you mean something to this town. Even… even though we haven't known each other long… you mean something to me."

"…I have to admit the feeling is mutual," Mark casually replied.

"I'm glad to hear it."

After supper that evening, Mark saw Miss Pierce to her hotel room before retiring to his own room to find his Pa still out. After pulling off his belt, boots, and shirt, Mark fell backwards onto the bed and lied across it, looking up at the ceiling. He couldn't get what Joanna had said earlier that evening out of his mind. He couldn't believe what he had said in response to her and wondered… wondered if maybe… could she be the one? Mark tried pushing the thought aside, but he couldn't help but think about it. They had only known each other a week… but Mark felt as though it had been the best week of his life. Whenever he was around Joanna, whenever he thought about Joanna… this feeling settled inside him that he couldn't shake. A good feeling… a welcome feeling. As Mark thought about the way Joanna's curls had seemed to flow down her face, the way her soft, brown eyes had looked at him… the softness of her hands and the gentleness of her voice, he couldn't help but…

Mark bolted upright as the thought crossed his mind. He shook his head and looked into the mirror with a furrowed brow and confused brain. Could he really… really have fallen in…

Mark's train of thought was again broken as the door opened and Lucas came inside, hat and rifle in hand. He shut the door behind him and put his rifle in the corner before looking up to see Mark staring at him from the bed.

"Mark, are you alright, Son?" Lucas asked, concerned by the look on Mark's face.

"Uh…" Mark shook his head and retreated underneath the covers as he went on. "Just tired and wasn't expecting you, that's all, Pa."

Lucas chuckled as Mark turned around to face the wall, having a pretty good idea of what was going on inside his son's head after his conversation with Lou downstairs.

"If you say so, Son…"

12MC12

Over the next few weeks, Lucas found himself often chuckling at his son. Mark avoided all conversation about Miss Pierce with Lucas, but whenever they would go into town he made an effort to make sure he spent some time with Joanna. While at the ranch, Mark found himself alone with his thoughts all too often. He wasn't exactly sure what was going on, but he knew this wasn't something he couldn't talk to his Pa about… yet, anyway. However, Mark did find himself asking Lucas more and more questions about his mother, and as Lucas answered, Mark couldn't help but see more and more of his Ma in Joanna.

As predicted by anyone who had known the McCains long enough, Lucas certainly had his hands full trying to make his son rest. Regardless of the fact that he tired easily and still had some discomfort due to his various injuries, Mark couldn't stand sitting around the house all day while Lucas worked the range.

The night of the Davis' barn dance finally arrived, and Mark was more than happy to be getting off the ranch to do something other than going to the clinic so Doc could tell him what he couldn't do. As Lucas pulled the team into the Davis' yard, he shot his son one last warning look.

"I'm not ten years old anymore," Mark said before Lucas could say anything.

"No, you're not, and I expect you to act like it and listen to the doctor. No dancing."

"I know." Mark jumped down from the buckboard, a little too hard and sharply breathed in as he landed.

"Mark?" Lucas asked with concern.

"…I'll be more careful, don't worry."

Lucas shook his head and smiled as he watched Mark walk away from the team and towards the Davis' barn.

"Lucas, I'm glad you and Mark could make it," Mr. Davis greeted as he walked up to the team.

"So am I. It's been too long since everyone has been able to breathe and have a little fun, I'm glad you and your Mrs. decided to host the dance."

"Well between all the ranchers dealing with their cattle and then the bank getting robbed and what happened to Stephan and Mark… well, everyone needed a chance to relax. How's Mark been doing? He's still not back as deputy yet, is he?"

"No, it'll probably be another two weeks, but we'll all be relieved when that day gets here."

"He giving you trouble?" The rancher asked with a laugh. "If there's one thing I know about your son, it's that he certainly doesn't take no for an answer and he can't not be working."

"You've got that right. He's been better than I was expecting him to be, but I think that's only because of how serious his injuries were. But he's still a handful. I thought parenting was supposed to get easier as they got older, but was I ever wrong about that."

"I know what you mean. They may be grown men, but… but you can't help but still want to protect them with everything you've got. Billy got thrown from a bronc the other day, busting his wrist. I think I was more scared then than the day when he must've been… five, six maybe? He fell out of a tree and broke his arm, also knocking himself unconscious."

"Well, at least now we… hope, they have the sense to be a little more careful the next time."

"So, what's the story with Mark and the teacher?" The man asked, gesturing as the two walked away from the barn. "They know each from someplace else?"

"No, they met the first night she got into town. But Mark's head over heels if I ever saw a young man in love. Now we just have to get him to admit to it."

As the two ranchers continued to talk, Mark walked Joanna to the front porch of the Davis' home where they both sat down, looking up at the stars.

"…I guess it won't be long before you'll be leaving us," Mark quietly began, "Seeing as how Stephan will be back in the classroom not too long from now…"

"And just what does that have to do with me leaving?"

"You mean, you'd want to stay?" Mark asked, sheepishly looking over.

"…Well, I don't exactly have any family to go back to… and… and I suppose North Fork… well, there's just something so special about this town. There's such a sense of… security and… and I've felt so welcome here, and I… was somewhat hoping… you might… want me to stay?"

"Joanna, I'd be thrilled if you were to stay, but I want it to be something you want to do… and, and you have to think about it logically, where would you stay? Where could you get a job?"

Joanna slightly smiled as she replied, "I'm glad you want me to stay, because Stephan talked to the school board and offered me a job as North Fork's second teacher. Once he returns to the classroom, I'm supposed to work with the younger students in the church in the afternoons while he works with the more advanced children, to provide them less distractions."

"So you're staying here, for good?"

"As long as I'm wanted, I'll be here."

"Even if it's not the school board that wants you?"

"Especially if it's not the school board."

Joanna and Mark found themselves lost in each other's eyes, a soft smile on Joanna's face. Mark moved to place his hand on hers, and they both slowly leaned forward until…

"Hey, Mark?"

The deputy and teacher both jerked backwards and stood to see Billy Davis and Sarah Fuller walking up to the porch.

"Hi, Billy," Mark nervously replied. "What are you up to?"

"Sarah and I just decided to get out of the barn. It's a bit too crowded and since she won't let me do any dancing anyway…"

"What happened to your hand?" Mark inquired, seeing the cast.

"I busted it riding a bronc the other day, but I'm still not sure why that got my dancing privileges taken away."

"Because, Billy," Sarah began to chide, "We both know that you take square dancing a mite… too seriously, and you'd end up breaking your wrist trying to dose doe!"

Sarah and Joanna both pleasantly chuckled as Billy rolled his eyes.

"Say, since you're not allowed to have any fun either," Billy said to Mark, "Why don't the four of us go walk that old Indian path; there's a full moon."

"You up for a challenge?" Mark asked of Joanna.

"I just hope the two of you can keep up with Sarah and me!"

Billy and Mark offered their arms to their ladies and Micah watched from outside the barn as the foursome headed towards the woods. He chuckled, thinking back to the days when Mark and Billy would take that same path, but fishing poles in hand instead of young ladies.

"What are ya laughin' at, Micah?" Lou inquired as she came up beside the marshal.

"Oh, just watching the kids…"

"I think ya can hardly classify them as kids anymore," Lou said as she saw the small group in the distance.

"Lou, compared to me, everyone's a kid," Micah answered with a laugh. "And how are you doing, Lou?"

"Fine," Lou replied with a hint of confusion. "Whatever makes you think it wouldn't be?"

"Just seems to have been something different about you lately, can't quite put my finger on it."

"Well ya don't have ta worry, everything is fine… plain and simple, but fine…"

"Now you can't tell me that answer wasn't asking for more questions. What's going on?"

"…Lucas and I agreed years ago now that we were just friends. Good friends. And I know it can't ever be anythin' more than that. I love the hotel, I love runnin' my own business, but sometimes… Micah, I guess I just realize that I'm probably going to turn out to be an old spinster. I know I asked fer it, but… well, as my dearly departed father would say, there's nothin' in the world as valuable as havin' the capacity ta dream. It's dreamin' that got me here."

"Lou, you may have the capacity to dream, but you certainly don't have the capacity to become an old spinster. You'll find someone, at the right time, I'm sure."

"Well I'm not so sure about that, but thanks, Micah.

The evening passed, bringing everyone present an enjoyable start to the fall season. Lucas got his promised dance from Lou before she and several others began to make their leave. As the crowd dissipated, Lucas began looking around for his son, who was nowhere to be seen.

"Lose Mark?" Mrs. Davis inquired as she came closer.

"Looks like it," Lucas chuckled. "Have you seen him?"

"He, Billy, Miss Fuller and Miss Pierce all left on a walk earlier this evening. The Fullers are outside talking to my husband, waiting for the four of them to get back, and might I add, Mr. Fuller isn't too terribly pleased with our son. Neither am I."

"Billy's a gentleman, I'm sure they just lost track of time."

"I know, and I know Mark wouldn't let anything inappropriate happen, either. They should've just thought through going off alone a little more. But they are adults, whether I want them to be or not…"

"They may be grown, but I think the problem is the four of them are too innocent to think about the fact that it might have looked better if someone else was with them. To be young and in love again… I remember when Margaret and I were that age… without a care in the world."

"Now we get a little dose of what our parents went through when we went off and did things like this. It's strange watching things come around, full circle. It won't be long until Billy and Sarah are married, building their own home, having children of their own… it makes me miss the days Billy was begging to lick the batter bowl, or even the days he skipped school."

"That's one event I certainly could have done without."

"…Of course with the exception of the day he and Mark snuck off together. The two of them managed to get into so much mischief growing up I'm surprised they didn't ever end up in Micah's office. Lucas, I don't know how you did it as a single…" Mrs. Davis quieted as she caught what she was saying. "I'm sorry, Lucas, that wasn't…"

"Don't worry about it, Laura. It was a struggle. There were so many things Margaret would have known how to handle that I had absolutely no clue about. It was trying many a time, especially when he would act out because of the loss of his mother. But somehow, we made it through. I'm glad there were people like Hattie, Milly, and Lou who could give him some mothering."

"I'm sure they were grateful to have someone to be a "mother" to, even just once in a while."

Lucas and Laura both turned their heads as they heard Mr. Fuller raising his voice for his daughter to get in the back of the buckboard.

"Sounds like they're back," Lucas commented as they walked towards the front of the house.

They reached the front porch just as the Fullers were driving away, Billy with an embarrassed smile on his face. Lucas looked to Mark and Joanna who were both trying to hide their laughter.

"Well, look who decided to show up," Lucas called.

"Sorry, Pa," Mark answered with a shrug, "We lost track of time and then Sarah tripped over a tree root on the way back so that slowed us down with Billy having to carry her."

Now understanding more the look he had seen on Mr. Fuller's face, Lucas chuckled and put a hand on his son's shoulder.

"Well, we should be getting on home. Miss Pierce, can we drive you back to town?"

"Thank you, Mr. McCain. I'd appreciate not having to ride Willow back in the dark."

"Mr. and Mrs. Davis, thank you for the evening," Mark offered.

"We're glad you all could come," Laura replied. "Have a good night!"

13MC13

Two weeks after the barn dance, Lucas was returning from town and entered the barn to find Mark saddling BlueBoy.

"Where are you headed, Son?" Lucas inquired as he dismounted from Razor.

"I'm standing shift in town tonight." Seeing the look on his Pa's face, Mark went on, "Pa, Doc did say I could return to my regular activities. I've been working around the ranch for a few days and I really need to get back to helping Micah out. I've been gone too long."

"You ready?"

"As much as I can be. I still had some things to work through after we initially talked, but you were right; I would've been shot whether I was a deputy or not. It'll be a little intimidating walking the town tonight, but I know it'll be fine."

"I'm proud of you, Son."

"I wouldn't be who I am if it hadn't been for you, Pa. Thanks for putting up with me all these years."

"Well I figured if I wanted help around the ranch, I'd have to get free labor from you," Lucas quipped. "What time do you figure on being home tomorrow?"

"About nine or so, I figured I'd give Micah a little more time off tomorrow morning since I've been gone so long. Maybe we can move the cattle grazing in the east meadow after I get back from town."

"Sounds good," Lucas answered as Mark swung up into the saddle.

"I put a stew on for you, should be ready in about twenty minutes."

"What, you're not eating before you go into town?"

"I'm meeting someone at the hotel for supper tonight."

"Oh really?" Lucas teased. "Who is it?"

"The President of the United States," Mark shot back. "Have a good night, Pa."

"See you in the morning, Son." Lucas hit BlueBoy on the rump, sending his son out the barn doors.

As Mark rode to town, his nerves about standing shift became stronger and stronger. He had expected this, but it was worse than he had anticipated. Nevertheless, Mark knew this was something he had to do, and if he didn't do it now, he might never be able to.

Mark met Joanna for supper, trying to not think about the next twelve hours as much as possible. After saying goodnight to Miss Pierce, Mark made his way over to the office to relieve Micah for the evening.

"Reporting for duty, Marshal," Mark called as he entered the office.

"Mark, good to see that badge back on you," Micah commented as he stood from the desk. "I sure have missed having you around here."

"Yeah, I noticed," Mark answered as he lifted the stack of completed paperwork he had brought with him. "How you get so behind in this stuff amazes me…"

"Give it twenty years, you'll learn the fine art of procrastination." Micah briefly paused before going on, "Mark, I don't have any reservations about you standing shift tonight, but I would completely understand if you wanted a little more time, or if you'd rather work a day shift, first."

"Thanks, Micah, but I can do this and I need to do this. I've had enough time off, anyway."

"Well if you need anything, you can always go wake John Hamilton up," Micah teased.

"Thanks," Mark smiled back, "But hopefully it'll be a nice, quiet night and nobody'll have to be woken up, including me."

"Well, deputy, she's all yours." Micah started to make his way to the door. "Have a good night."

"You too, Micah. And thanks."

After the door shut behind Micah, Mark made his way to the desk and chuckled to himself as he saw the mess of papers waiting for him. After spending a few minutes straightening the desk, Mark left the office to start on his rounds.

The nerves Mark had felt on his way into town seemed to have completely disappeared as he walked the town. It felt good to be wearing his badge again, to be serving his town again. As Mark visited with the shopkeepers and business owners, they all commented on how good it was to see Mark back on the job again. Mark checked the bank one last time before returning to the office and turning down the lamps, then letting himself fall asleep in one of the cells.

About one in the morning, Mark heard a knock at the office door and went to answer it.

"Let me guess," Mark said as he tried to stifle a yawn. "Fight at Sweeney's?"

"Sorry Mark," Thelma apologized. "He tried getting them to calm down, but…"

"I understand."

Mark followed the saloon girl back to Sweeney's to find complete chaos erupting inside. Card tables were being turned over, the men that weren't standing were wrestling on the floor, and Mark shielded his face as two men went through the front window. Stepping inside, Mark let several shots off towards the ceiling and waited for the commotion to settle. Two men were still going at it, and Mark and Sweeney stopped closer to pull the two away from each other. Just as Mark was able to tear one man away, the other sent a hard punch flying. Mark stumbled backwards, but caught himself before he fell to the ground. Realizing he had just slugged the deputy, the man began to stumble out an apology.

"I… I sure am s-sorry, deputy. I… I's didn't-"

"Don't bother," Mark answered as he rubbed his jaw. "Now as I hear it, Sweeney gave all of you fair warning to cool it. Right, Sweeney?" The bar keep nodded as the other men slowly looked around, glaring at each other.

"Since you didn't take his suggestion, you're all going to have some time in the jail so you can calm down. Then first thing tomorrow you'll all come back and help Sweeney clean this place up. Then he'll let you know what each of you owe him for damages. I'm not really in the mood for arguments, so unless you also want a fine on top of everything else, I suggest you all come peaceably."

"you can't fit all of us into the jail!" One man complained.

"You all don't seem to mind sharing personal space, seeing as how close you all got this evening. Let's get going."

Some men hesitated at taking orders from the young deputy, but they knew he didn't make idle threats, and they knew he had the law behind him, regardless of his age. Mark walked the men to the jail and locked them in the cells. It took a while for them all to quiet down and get to sleep, but eventually the quiet of the night returned. Mark sat down in a chair and put his legs up on the desk, hat over his eyes and rifle across his lap.

After getting a few more hours of sleep, Mark got up for the day and started coffee, knowing the men would need some before they headed over to Sweeney's. After Mark opened up the cell doors, the men came filing out… except for two. One man lay still on the bed, while the other sat in the corner, head to his knees.

"Logan, Mason, let's go," Mark ordered.

When Mark didn't get a reply, he entered the cell and made his way to the bunk. Pulling the blanket off of Mason and turning the man over, Mark saw beads of sweat on the man's clammy skin. Taking a step towards Logan, Mark saw him shivering and when he lifted the man's head, he found the same thing.

"Oliver, Michael, Ethan," Mark called from the cell. "Help me get these two over to Doc's. The rest of you get some coffee and head over to Sweeney's. And I will find out if you don't show."

Mark and the three men quickly got Mason and Logan over to Doc's office. When Mark called for Doc as they entered, Burrage replied from the back room for Mark to wait where he was. They set the men down in the chairs and waited for the doctor to come from the back room a few minutes later. Seeing the two ill men, Doc immediately began to examine them.

"Mark, what happened?"

"I don't know, Doc, they were fine last night. I had to lock a bunch of them up from the saloon last night and this morning we found them like this."

"The saloon?" Doc asked again. "What did they have to drink?"

"I don't know," Mark answered as he looked to the other men, who shrugged. "Why?"

"I have another man back there that went to the saloon last night and he looks just like Logan and Mason. I think Sweeney got a bad shipment of something. Mark, I want you to go tell Sweeney not to serve anything until we get to the bottom of this."

"Sure, Doc." Mark turned to the other three, "Help Doc here and then come over to the saloon."

Mark jogged over to the saloon and was pleased to find all the men that were supposed to be there cleaning the place up. Mark made his way to Sweeney who stood cleaning glasses at the counter.

"Sweeney, I hate to break it to you, but Doc thinks you got a bad case of something. He has three sick men that were here last night over at his office. He's not sure what they drank, but he doesn't want you to serve anything until he knows for sure what the problem is."

"Do you know how long that will be?"

"No, but I'll talk to the other men and see if I can't help speed up the process."

As the men worked to put the saloon back in order, Mark talked to each of them to try to get to the bottom of what had made the others sick. But as Mark talked to the men, he became less convinced that a bad case of whiskey or keg of beer was the problem. Neither Logan or Mason had drunk something at least two others hadn't.

Mark left the saloon and was heading towards Doc's when David Grady came running up to him, out of breath.

"David, what's the matter?"

"Miss Pierce..." David gasped for breath before going on, "Sent me to find you; she- she said-"

"Calm down, David, take a deep breath." The boy did so before Mark went on, "Now, what's wrong? Did something happen to your teacher?"

"No, not Miss Pierce." The boy again took in a deep breath. "A few of the kids at school fell asleep at their desks… kinda one right after another, I think they're real sick. Miss Pierce got really worried and sent me to find you."

"Alright, let's go."

Mark and David ran back to the schoolhouse. Several of the children were sitting outside the building, but everyone was quiet. Mark told David to stay there and went inside the schoolhouse to find Joanna kneeling at the desk of one of her students.

"Joanna?"

The teacher stood and quickly walked towards the deputy, worry on her face.

"Mark, I don't know what happened, they were all fine when they got here this morning! Christopher was the first to fall asleep, and I tried waking him, but he wouldn't rouse. I felt his forehead and it was fevered. Before I could think about what to do, I heard a thud and Evelyn was on the floor, and then…" Joanna looked around the classroom, five children asleep at their desks, shivering. "I couldn't just leave them so I sent David for you and the rest of the children outside… Mark, I've never seen anything like this!"

Mark could hear the fear in her voice and reassuringly put both hands on her shoulders.

"It's going to be alright. Keeping the other children outside was a good idea. Help me get these ones over to Doc's and then we'll worry about everyone else."

Joanna nodded and followed Mark's directions. She managed to pick up one of the smaller children while Mark got two others. They stepped outside to see the rest of the children worriedly staring at them.

"Everything will be alright," Mark assured. "You all need to stay right here, and do NOT go inside. Miss Pierce and I will be back in a few minutes."

The children silently nodded in reply and watched the deputy and teacher carry their classmates out of sight.

Mark called for Doc as he and Joanna entered the clinic.

"Mark, Joanna?" Doc asked as he took a child from Mark.

"It wasn't something from the saloon, there's two more still at the school."

"Let's get them in the back. Miss Pierce, I want classes cancelled."

Mark suddenly looked at Joanna and asked, "Where's Stephan?"

"He…" Her eyes widened as she continued, "He sent word he wasn't going to be in class today because he wasn't feeling well..."

"We'll have to check on him later."

Mark and Joanna ran back to the school to get the other two ill students and took them to Doc's. They sent home anyone that lived in town, but Mark told the students who lived farther out to wait.

"Joanna, I'm going to take them home. I want to make sure they don't come down with anything on the way back and I'll explain to the parents out of town if you want to start with the parents here."

"I'll check on Stephan when I'm done, too."

Mark nodded and asked the rest of the students to wait in the school yard until he could get a buckboard from the livery. As Mark headed that way, Lou came running out of the hotel.

"Mark, I've got two sick guests in the hotel, somethin' is goin' on!"

"I know, there's eight people over at Doc's now. I don't think he has any more room, so I'd leave them there. I've got to take some of the school children back home. Would you do me a favor and let Micah know what's going on?"

"I will," Lou answered with a nod.

Mark hurried to the livery and explained to Nils before the two worked to rig up a team. Mark drove to the schoolhouse and loaded up the kids that hadn't ridden to school that morning. As they started out of town, there was an eerie silence until finally Julia asked, "Deputy Mark, are they gonna… well… what if Doc Burrage can't make them better? What if… he can't make anyone better?"

Mark thought for several moments before answering, "If there's anyone that can make them better, It's Doc Burrage. You don't need to worry yourself about it."

The silence continued. By ones and twos, Mark dropped the children off at their homes and briefly explained the situation to the parents, also cautioning them to stay away from town unless someone came down sick. Finally, it was just Mark and Jeffery Turner, a thirteen year old who lived quite a ways from town.

"You told Sarah she didn't need to worry herself about it," The boy commented. "…That's what my Pa told me, right before my uncle died. Deputy McCain, do you really think all those people are going to be alright? Truly?"

"Jeffrey… I don't know what to think. I certainly hope so. Doc is a good doctor, he's saved a lot of people's lives. And usually if you catch an illness early on, it's easier to stop. We just gotta hope and pray that everyone will be alright."

"Are you going home after this?"

"No, I gotta go back to town and help."

"But you could get sick!" The alarm could be heard in the boy's voice.

"I know that, but someone has got to help Doc out. It wouldn't be fair to just leave all those people alone. They need someone to take care of them, and it's my job to help take care of the town."

"So if you weren't the town deputy, then you could go home?"

"…I could go home now, but it wouldn't be right. Whether I'm a deputy or not I need to help people. It's part of my job, as a member of the community."

"Then I want to help, too."

"I'm sorry, Jeffery, but you need to stay home with your parents."

"I may not live in town, but I'm a member of the community, just like you!"

"Yes, you are. But at different ages, we all have different responsibilities to attend to as members of the community. My job is to stay in town and help Doc. Your job is to stay out here with your parents and make sure no one gets sick. See, I can't stay out here with you and your folks to make sure everyone stays healthy. That's where you come in."

"What about the neighbors? Can I help check up on them?"

"That's something you need to talk to your parents about. They know a little bit more about what you can do at your age than I do."

As soon as they arrived at Jeffrey's home, the boy ran inside to change his clothes. Mark explained what had happened to the parents, as well as Jeffery's desire to help out.

Realizing the time and that his Pa might be getting worried, Mark headed towards the ranch. He hadn't been on the road long when he saw his Pa approaching in the distance. When they were close enough to each other to hold a conversation, Mark pulled the team to a stop and called for his Pa to hold up.

"Mark, what's going on?" Lucas asked, still riding closer.

"Pa, please stop." Mark waited for Lucas to halt Razor before going on. "There's something going around town and a whole lot of people are taking sick. I got so busy I forgot what time I had told you I'd be home. I need to go back to town and give Doc and Micah a hand."

"I'll come with you then."

"Please, Pa, don't. Doc's not sure what's going on and he doesn't want this to keep spreading. The best thing is for you to stay home and don't come anywhere close to town."

"Mark, what about you?"

"Pa, I've already been well exposed, I might as well be there to help. Please, I've got to do my job and I don't want to have to be worrying about you, too."

"Mark…" Lucas was torn between ignoring his son's pleas and doing what he knew was best.

"Please, Pa."

"…Alright, Son. But you be careful, and if you start feeling sick…"

"I'll let someone know. I'll be out to the ranch when it's safe. I love you."

"I love you too, Mark."

Lucas watched as Mark turned the team around and headed back towards town.

"Please, God, watch over him."

14MC14

Mark returned the team to Nils before running back over to the doctor's office to find several more people in the waiting room. He entered the back room to see Doc tending to patients.

"What can I do to help?"

"I just sent Joanna to Lou's to get blankets and whatever else she can find. I need you and her to go set up an infirmary in the schoolhouse, I can't keep everyone here."

"Do you know what it is yet?"

"It's too soon, but I've already sent word for people to make sure all their food is thoroughly cooked and to boil any drinking water for a long time before using it."

"You think it might be cholera?" Mark worriedly inquired.

"Maybe, but no use sending the whole town into a scare. Let me know when you and Joanna are ready, I've got plenty of people that could use a bed."

"Sure thing, Doc."

Mark left the back room to see Freddy Toomey bringing in another patient. Mark gave the man a hand before quickly making his way back over to the schoolhouse. He stepped inside to see Miss Pierce and Lou hard at work.

"Joanna, what can I do?"

"If you could move more of the desks into the corner, we're going to need the room."

Mark nodded and began moving the rest of the desks to where Lou and Joanna had already placed the first few. He helped them set up a few more beds before heading back to the clinic and asking Doc who he wanted taken over to the schoolhouse.

"Start with Logan and then Stephan, I'll tell you who's next when you get back."

"Mr. Griswold did take sick, then?"

"Yes, but he's not as bad as the others, which is why I want him over there. You might want to get Freddy back over here to help you move the men."

Mark nodded and did as the doctor suggested. After getting everyone situated, Mark ran back and forth between the schoolhouse turned infirmary and the clinic, running errands for Lou, Joanna, and Doc, and keeping the doctor informed about the condition of those at the schoolhouse. Just when things had seemed to finally have settled down some, Mark returned to the office to see if Micah needed anything, only to find Micah heavily leaning on the desk.

"Micah!" Mark yelled as he ran to the marshal and helped the man sit down.

"I'm fine, Mark…" the marshal tried to insist. "I just… got a little… dizzy…"

"No, you didn't just get a little dizzy. How long have you been feeling- it doesn't matter, I'm getting you over to Doc's."

"Mark, I'm fine, I just… need a little… rest…"

"No, you're coming with me." Mark didn't give Micah another chance to argue before he started helping Micah up and out of the chair.

Thankful the office was just across the street, Mark half carried, half drug Micah to the clinic and set him in a chair in the waiting room. Mark quickly got a glass of water from the pot that had been boiling on the stove and waited for it to cool before making Micah drink some. The young deputy became increasingly worried as Micah became weaker and waited until Doc Burrage finally came out of the back room.

"Same symptoms?" Doc asked as he took a seat on the other side of Micah.

"He could hardly stand when I found him in the office," Mark answered as he nodded his head. Mark gave the doctor a moment to examine a half unconscious Micah before asking, "Do you want him in the back room or over at the school house?"

"I'll help you get him over to the school for now."

The two men stood the marshal up and got on both sides of him before taking him over to the schoolhouse. As Mark and Joanna worked to settle Micah in, Doc took Lou aside.

"I didn't want to say anything to worry Mark more, but Micah's… on the edge. I don't have room for him over at the office. If his fever spikes or he gets any worse in any way, I want to know about it right away."

"I'll be sure ta get you," Lou replied in understanding; she looked across the room and saw the worry etched on Mark's face. "Doc, please get him out of here, it's not goin' ta be good for 'im ta just sit there and worry."

Doc nodded and called for Mark as he made his way to the doors. Mark walked to the doctor, looking over his shoulder towards Micah.

"He'll be fine, let Lou and Joanna take care of him. I need you to check up on the wells on the north and south ends of town. If the water's contaminated, there's a reason why."

"But what exactly am I looking for?"

"Sometimes people get it in their heads to throw things down the well. Old boards with rusty nails, waste, bad food… just look for anything besides water."

"Alright."

Mark left the schoolhouse and headed for the livery. It didn't take him long to saddle BlueBoy and within just a few minutes he arrived at the first well. He checked around as Doc had instructed, but didn't find anything out of the ordinary. Mounting BlueBoy again, Mark made his way to the other end of town. Again, he couldn't find anything. The deputy went back to the clinic and told Doc he hadn't seen anything unusual before starting on his evening rounds.

Most businesses had closed earlier that day after getting word that there was an outbreak of something, so unlike most evenings, Mark didn't have many shopkeepers or business owners to talk with as he walked the town. However, Mark did catch John Hamilton just as the man was closing up for the day.

"Any of your staff go home sick today?" Mark asked.

"Thankfully, no. How many are sick?"

"I'm not sure. There's probably eight or nine at Doc's and another dozen or so at the schoolhouse."

"Does Doc know what it is or why it's spreading so quickly?"

"He said it's too soon to know for sure, but to make sure everyone is boiling their water and making sure their food is well cooked."

"Boiling water?" John asked. "That sounds like cholera…"

"We're not sure yet and we don't want to send everyone into a scare until we know for sure."

"I understand. Have you checked the wells?"

"Just got back from that a little while ago. Everything checked out alright, but that doesn't mean there's not something below ground that we can't see. Or it could be something entirely different. I guess we'll just have to wait and see what happens."

Both men let out heavy sighs as they looked up and down the vacant street. Twelve hours prior, the town had been bustling and bubbling with life. Now the only noise to be heard was a cat's meow as it crossed the lonely street.

"I hate this," Mark said as he shook his head. "Disease… it's something you can't see. Something you can't prepare for. And when it attacks, it does more damage than a dozen outlaws."

"Do they need any help at the clinic or school?"

"Thanks, but I think everything's under control… for now. I'll keep you in mind if something does come up, though."

"Don't hesitate. I'll see you later, Mark."

"Goodnight, John."

Mark finished his rounds and was headed back towards the schoolhouse when he saw Joanna outside of the marshal's office, arguing with a man just a few years older than her. As Mark got closer, he saw the man forcibly grab Joanna's arm, and before he could start to walk away, Mark fired a shot in the air.

"You let the lady alone," Mark ordered, training his rifle on the man.

"I don't recall my sister being any of your business," the man retorted.

"As long as you're causing trouble in my town, it is my business. I'll say it one more time. Leave her alone."

The man pulled Joanna backwards and let go of her arm before stepping towards the deputy.

"I don't like being told what to do, mister. And I gotta right to take care of my little sister, so I suggest you just move along."

"Sister, daughter, wife, I don't care. You don't have any right to treat her like that, and I suggest you get used to being told what to do if you intend on sticking around here any longer."

"Big words, coming from just a little man. Though I suppose you think you can just hide behind that rifle."

"Connor, please…" Joanna begged as she came up behind the man, who gave her a nudge to back away.

Mark lowered his rifle before finally setting it against the building and taking two steps closer to the man. He looked him up and down before answering, "You're asking for trouble, mister."

"I suppose I am…" the man started to turn away, but suddenly swung around, his fist flying.

Mark didn't see it coming soon enough and took a right hook to the jaw as Joanna screamed his name. Mark stumbled backwards a little, but got his balance and ducked before the man could hit him again. Mark sent a punch to the man's midsection before taking a punch to his ribs. The men kept serving and receiving blows back and forth, but Joanna could see Mark starting to weaken. Both men sent one last punch flying; Mark sent the other man into quite a daze, but wasn't conscious long enough to see his opponent fall backwards.

Joanna yelled Mark's name and ran to his side.

"Come on Joanna, lets go," Connor ordered as he started to stand.

"No! I'm going to see this through and you can't stop me!"

"Joanna, it's too dangerous, you can come back!"

"I'm not leaving, not now! I've already been exposed long enough so it doesn't matter. You just get out of here before-"

"Fine, have it your way!" The man yelled. "But if you get sick, don't try getting any sympathy from me! It won't be my fault if you mess everything up!"

Joanna ignored the man as he stormed away. She dragged Mark into the marshal's office and began tending to his injuries; Mark beginning to rouse a few minutes later.

"Mark?" Joanna worriedly called.

Mark slowly tried to sit up, but stopped half way, leaning on his right elbow. He started rubbing his head, then looked up at Joanna.

"Mark, are you alright? Please tell me you're alright…"

"I'll live…" Mark heavily sighed before sitting up the rest of the way and leaning against the desk. "Was he really your brother?"

"Unfortunately, yes. Mark, I'm sorry you got dragged into that…"

"I didn't get dragged into it, I jumped in feet first. …But your brother? What was going on?"

"He's over protective and didn't want me staying here with the sickness going around."

"But how did he know? I've never seen him in town before…"

"He was just passing through. But it doesn't matter, he's leaving. Mark, you really should've known better. He's as tall as your Pa and has at least a hundred pounds on you!"

"I couldn't just stand by and let him treat you like that!"

"You could've… but you didn't." Joanna slowly leaned forward and gave the deputy a kiss on the cheek. "Thank you, Mark."

"…Your brother might have a point. Do you really think you should be staying in town?"

"Mark, I've been working around sick people all day," she pleasantly laughed. "But even if I hadn't been… Mark, North Fork is my home now. This is my town. These people… well, they're almost like my family. I couldn't just turn my back on them."

"You're a kind, wonderful person, Joanna. The world needs more people like you."

"Don't cut yourself short. There's getting to be less and less people out there that would take a punch for a lady. Not to mention several." Mark winced as Joanna gently touched one of his developing bruises. "…Can I make it up to you somehow?"

"Well… after this whole epidemic is over, would you be willing to let me take you to dinner?"

"Mark, you've taken me to supper before…"

"I mean really take you. I mean… Joanna, I… I'd like to court you… officially. But only if-"

"I'd like that very much, Deputy McCain."

15MC15

After staring after his son for several minutes, Lucas finally turned Razor around and headed back towards the ranch. He wanted to be riding in the opposite direction, he wanted to be close to his son… but Lucas knew he had to let Mark go. Under most circumstances, Lucas wouldn't care what risk he would be put at. He would go to town and help where he could. And while he didn't care about being at risk, he couldn't get Mark's words out of his head.

'Please, I've got to do my job and I don't want to have to be worrying about you, too.'

Lucas didn't know if he would have ever been ready to hear those words come out of Mark's mouth. But the time had come when Lucas had to stand down and step back in order to let his son do his job. Lucas knew him being in town would be a distraction to his son, and he also knew that if he rode into town, Mark would insist on going back and forth between town and the ranch to get the chores done.

The next few days, however, were by no means easy. Things were all too quiet around the ranch and Lucas anxiously waited to hear from Mark. Although he understood that Mark had to do what he had to do, Lucas was also worried that his son would come down sick like the others.

Three days had passed since Lucas had said goodbye to Mark. He again pulled himself out of bed and grabbed a shirt to put on before walking to the front room and starting a pot of coffee. After giving himself a few minutes to wake up, Lucas went outside to do the barn chores.

When Lucas entered the building, he was slightly taken aback to see the chores already done. Looking around, Lucas didn't see anyone. He called for his son, but received no answer. Stepping back out of the barn into the yard, Lucas surveyed the land that surrounded him before squatting down to look at the tracks in the yard. Sure enough, Lucas recognized BlueBoy's tracks and shook his head as he looked up to see the tracks headed toward town.

"Mark, what am I going to do with you…" Lucas mumbled under his breath.

Returning to the house, Lucas made breakfast before mounting Razor and heading to check on the cattle. Again, Lucas was tortured by the silence that surrounded him and prayed the epidemic would be over soon and that his son could come home.

The next morning, the same scene greeting Lucas in the barn. Telling himself that at least Mark wasn't sick, Lucas saddled Razor once again and got ready for another day of work on the ranch.

When Lucas arrived home that evening, he sat in his chair in front of the fireplace as the fire crackled and popped. Lighting his cigar, Lucas smiled as he looked to the kitchen table and remembered the countless nights Mark had sat there, struggling to do his homework. The last time Lucas had seen his son at that table, Mark had been pouring over another law book Micah had recommended.

Lucas wondered what the next five years held. Would Mark be married? Would Micah be retired, and if so, would Mark be North Fork's next marshal? Lucas knew it was a possibility the three of them had talked about before, but it had always seemed so distant… so far away. Lucas was proud of his son and the way he had matured the last three years. But Lucas wasn't sure if he'd ever be ready to see his son take that kind of a step. He was proud that Mark was capable of filling the position, but this ranch had never just been his. It had always been their ranch and Lucas was afraid that Mark might one day choose to leave what had been their home for almost ten years. He remembered when he and his ten-year-old son had decided to make North Fork their home; the grin on his boy's face.

Lucas smiled as he remembered when Mark had gotten his first job and the growing pains he had experienced then. He remembered Micah's words, 'Well, a boy's gotta grow into a man, you know.'

"And that he did…" Lucas whispered.

Lucas hadn't remembered there being this much separation anxiety when he was getting ready to get married and leave home, after the war. Lucas's father, as much as he loved his son, seemed more than ready for Lucas to get out of the house. Lucas remembered his Pa being happy for him… why couldn't he be that happy for Mark? Then, Lucas realized, Mark wasn't getting ready to walk out the door this minute. He still had time with his son on the ranch, and was going to appreciate the time that he had left.

Lucas turned in early that evening, hoping to wake in time to catch Mark if his son came by the ranch again. When Lucas woke the next morning, he was pleased to look out the window and see BlueBoy in the corral. Buttoning his shirt as he crossed the yard, Lucas then entered the barn to find Mark mucking the stalls.

"Morning, Son," Lucas greeted.

"Pa, you shouldn't be here…" Mark answered as he turned around.

Lucas could see how tired his son was, but was thankful exhaustion was the only thing to be seen in his son's face.

"I'm not the one who shouldn't be here, Mark," Lucas chided. "What are you trying to do? You've got enough going on in town."

"Once things settled in town enough for me to think straight, I felt bad leaving you out here at the ranch to do all the work by yourself. I figured the least I could do was come by and do the morning chores before you got up, so I wouldn't get you sick," Mark replied as he leaned against a stall door.

"Son, it looks like you need more rest than I do. Why don't you let me finish up in here and go get a good breakfast?"

"The barn's one thing… and I don't even want to spend too much time around here. Doc's still not sure what's going on. He thought it might be cholera, but-"

"Cholera?" Lucas asked in concern.

"But we can't figure out what's making people sick. No common food sources, we checked the wells on the north and south ends of town…"

"What about the old well we boarded up a few years ago, about two miles north? Did you check that one?"

"But I thought that one was all dried up?"

"Well with the rain we've been getting, it's possible just enough water is getting through there to connect with the other waterways that connect to the water pumps in town. If something or someone broke through the boards and a dead animal or something is down there…"

"I'll check it out when I head back to town."

"Mark, I'll finish here. Go ahead and check it out, and I don't want you back here until I can have you back in the house, resting." The tone Lucas used told Mark this was an order, not a suggestion. "You're going to wear yourself out and then you'll be no use to anyone, Deputy."

"Thanks, Pa. I'll see you later."

Mark put the shovel in the corner of the stall and walked out of the barn to mount BlueBoy. Lucas stood in the barn doors as he watched Mark guide his horse out of the corral.

"Pa?" Mark called as he looked back.

"Yeah, Mark?"

"I know it's not easy, but thanks for staying here."

"You're welcome, Son."

Mark kicked BlueBoy and headed back towards town to check the other well. He was a few feet away from the well when a breeze picked up and carried the stench from below the well towards him. Pulling a handkerchief over his nose, Mark approached the well and looked past the broken boards. He couldn't see anything, but even with the handkerchief, Mark knew something was down there.

Mounting BlueBoy again, Mark headed to town and knocked on John Hamilton's door.

"Mark, what can I do for you? There's no trouble at the bank, is there?"

"It was still locked up last I saw," Mark assured. "I need your help. I think I might have found out what's making everyone sick. I'm going to need to borrow a lantern, and we need to have Lou let us into the store."

As they collected supplies, Mark explained what he had found. Once the two men arrived, John wrapped one end of a rope around a tree and to his horse's saddle horn while Mark tied the other end around his waist. Both men worked to pull enough boards away so Mark could easily get into the opening before John slowly lowered Mark down the shaft.

Gagging on the pungent stench that surrounded him, Mark used the light of the lantern to look for the source of the smell. Lucas had been right; there was enough water to flow to the other waterways and there was a dead fox just past the base of the well. Mark stuffed the animal inside a burlap sack and called for John to pull him up.

"Find anything?" John asked as Mark reached the top.

"Can't you smell it?" Mark asked as he tossed the bag aside. "Dead fox. If you let me down again, I'll work to block this well off from below."

John nodded and sent Mark down again. After the deputy had finished, Mark thanked the banker for his help.

"You are not coming back to town?" John asked in surprise.

"I"ll be back in a while, I need to see that carcass burned. Will you let Doc know what we found?"

"Sure thing."

After taking care of the fox and cleaning himself up at the hotel, Mark headed over to the clinic to see Doc and Micah talking in the waiting room.

"Micah, it's good to see you up and around," Mark commented as the door shut behind him.

"It's good to be up and around. Sounds like you solved the mystery?"

"Pa's the one who reminded me about the other well, I just got rid of the fox. Doc, you think that's our culprit?"

"Without a doubt. I feel stupid for not thinking about the other well myself."

"How long you reckon before everyone can stop boiling their water?"

"I'd still give it a few weeks, but as long as everyone is boiling it, no one else should be getting sick."

"How many patients do you still have?"

"About fifteen or so still, but most of them are all on the mend. I expect we can hold church services Sunday."

"Well I best head out and spread the word to the outlining ranches. I'll be seeing you Doc. And Micah?"

"Yeah, Mark?"

"Don't even think about setting foot in that office for another week."

The two men watched the deputy leave the clinic. As the door closed behind Mark, Doc couldn't help but let out a chuckle.

"What's so funny?" Micah asked in surprise.

"Just the deputy giving the Marshal orders. I don't know when it happened, but that boy turned out to be more like his Pa than any of us would've ever imagined."

"That's for sure…"

16MC16

That Sunday, Lucas rode into town and stopped by Micah's office to find Mark asleep at the desk. He laughed before letting the door slam shut behind him. Mark startled awake and looked around as he tried to get his bearings. When his eyes fell on Lucas, Mark relaxed and settled back into the chair.

"Morning, Pa," Mark groggily greeted. "What are you doing in town?"

"Getting ready to go to church."

"Church… church?!" Mark asked as he stood. "What time is it?"

"you have another fifteen minutes or so, don't worry."

"…I was so tired when I came back from my rounds this morning I was just gonna rest for a few minutes. Guess that turned into an hour."

"You gonna be alright until Micah's back on the job?"

"Just a few more days, it'll be alright. I've made it this long…"

"I could help you out…"

"Thanks, Pa, but this is my job and I need to do it."

Lucas nodded in understanding.

"Well, Son, let's get some coffee into you and then both of us over to church."

Everyone enjoyed the well delivered sermon and the freedom to be out and about again. Over the next few days, anyone that had still been suffering affects from the illness was finally well enough to be sent home, with strict orders to take it easy.

Wednesday morning, Micah entered the office and found Mark struggling to keep his eyes open as he worked on paperwork.

"Alright, Deputy, the doctor gave me a clean bill of health. Now it's your turn to go home and rest."

"Fine by me," Mark yawned as he grabbed his hat and placed it on his head. Mark picked up his rifle and patted Micah on the shoulder in passing. "Glad you're back, Micah…"

"Get on home, boy…" Micah chuckled.

Mark walked to the livery, saddled BlueBoy, and rode for home. When he arrived, Mark barely could stay awake long enough to unsaddle his horse and let him out in the corral. Taking heavy steps to the house, Mark tried to force his eyes open long enough to make it to his bedroom and crashed on his bunk, not bothering to pull back the blankets.

When Lucas returned home, he was glad to see BlueBoy in the corral and let Razor join him after unsaddling the horse. After making his way inside, Lucas peeked inside the bedroom to see Mark asleep on his bed, completely dead to the world. Lucas worked on some things around the house before starting supper. It was shortly after six when Lucas heard the bedroom door squeak open.

"Well, look who's alive," Lucas called. "How'd you sleep?"

"Solid. Last thing I remember was pushing open the front door." Mark stepped to the stove and lifted the lid of the pot to see what was for supper. "Sorry I slept so long. Between the normal responsibilities of standing watch, there was helping Doc out, constantly checking on the outlining ranches, trying to figure out what was making everyone sick, trying to not let everyone go into a panic… Micah was sick and…"

"Mark, don't feel like you have to explain. There's been a lot on your plate. And on top of all that, you've still been coming out and helping with the chores."

"It was the least I could do…"

"How long until you have to stand shift again?"

"…We didn't exactly talk about it. I'm guessing tomorrow night, like usual."

"You think you should?"

"…Probably not. I'll talk to Micah in the morning. I'm so tired I think I could sleep through a cattle stampede during a thunderstorm…"

"Well why don't you wash up out back? Supper's about ready and I'm sure getting food into you will help some."

"Food…" Mark mumbled as he headed toward the back door. "I don't think I've eaten anything all day…"

Lucas chuckled as he watched his son leave the kitchen. After supper that evening, Mark and Lucas spent a little bit of time out on the front porch, enjoying the peaceful evening. It wasn't long, however, before Lucas looked over and realized his son had fallen asleep. He tried to rouse Mark and putting his hands on Mark's shoulders, Lucas directed his half asleep son to the bedroom. When Lucas returned to the front porch, he saw Micah riding up.

"Micah, what brings you out here?" Lucas greeted as he stepped down from the porch.

"Mark left some of his books at the office and I figured it would give me a good excuse to ride out here and steal a cup of coffee from you," Micah answered as he dismounted and pulled the books from his saddle bag.

"Thanks, why don't you come on in?"

Micah followed Lucas inside and was surprised not to see Mark anywhere.

"Lucas, that boy of yours isn't still out on the range, is he?"

"No, Micah," Lucas chuckled. "He slept most of the day and crashed again a little while ago. He's pure exhausted."

"Well I can tell you why," Micah replied as he set the books on the table. "On top of the epidemic and watching the office for me, I can't tell you how many people swung by the office today looking for Mark to say thanks for this or that. He did a whole lot more than just check on people and look after businesses while everyone was sick. By the sound of it, he was running errands every which way for everybody this last week. Come to find out, he was even taking care of the livery while Nils was down for a few days."

"That's Mark alright…"

"I won't bother him, but tomorrow would you mind telling him I want him to take as much time off as he needs? I can take care of things for a few days."

"Thanks, Micah. I'll be sure to let him know."

The two friends enjoyed a few cups of coffee before Micah headed back towards town. After seeing his friend out the door, Lucas returned to the house and sat down in his chair, picking up a picture of his late wife.

"He's so much like you, Margaret… you'd be so proud of our boy…"

Despite Lucas and Micah suggesting that he take another night off, Mark went back to work Friday night. Only thing was, Mark forgot it was Friday night and didn't get to enjoy the quiet evening he had hoped for. Mark had just gotten to sleep when Thelma came knocking on the office door.

"Let me guess," Mark said as he turned to grab his hat and rifle. "Brawl at Sweeney's?"

Thelma sympathetically nodded and waited to follow the deputy back to the saloon. Utter chaos again greeted Mark and he let out a heavy sigh and prepared to fire his rifle. Before he could fire it though, Mark suddenly felt the rifle being pulled from his grasp. He turned to see a fist headed for his face. Mark moved to dodge the swing, but still caught the punch in his jaw. Side stepping to avoid the man's other fist, Mark jabbed the man just below the ribs and sent another punch to the man's face. Suddenly feeling arms restraining him from behind and seeing the man across from him preparing to swing again, Mark waited for just the right time to twist and drop out of the man's hold, allowing him to receive the other man's punch. Pulling the first man's legs out from underneath him, Mark rolled across the floor before standing up on the other side of the table where his rifle laid. Picking his rifle up, Mark jumped onto one of the chairs and fired it towards the ceiling.

As Mark looked around, he realized most of the fighting had already stopped before he had fired and that most people had been watching the deputy's struggle with the two men.

"Look," Mark said as he glanced around the room. "Working a ranch is hard work, I know it. Everyone needs to blow off some steam every once in a while. But I've had just about all I can take of these bar room brawls. I don't particularly like getting caught in the middle of your fist fights every weekend, and if you can't control yourselves like men, we'll have to talk to Sweeney about closing up the bar early on Friday nights. If you were fighting over money, take back what you started with and go home. If you're fighting over someone's honor, take it outside so Sweeney's property doesn't get smashed up. If you're fighting for no reason, go to the schoolyard where boys play around. Drinking is your choice and that's that. But you don't have a right to come in here and disturb everybody's evening and destroy property. Any more fights like this and everybody's getting a fine for disturbing the peace, on top of paying Sweeney back for the damages. And you two," Mark said as he trained his rifle on the two men that had attacked him, "You two are coming with me."

"On what charge?" One of the men demanded.

"Assaulting an officer of the law."

"We didn't know you were wearing a badge," the man protested. "All we knew was that a man came in here with a rifle. What else were we supposed to do?"

Mark looked over the two men and for the first time realized they weren't from North Fork.

"…Fair enough. But I want you two, and everyone else in here," Mark said as he turned to address everyone else, "To help clean this mess up."

The men mumbled and complained under their breaths, but everyone set to work as Mark turned to leave the saloon. Mark stopped at the doors and looked back at the two men that had attacked him. They looked familiar... but he couldn't quite put his finger on it. Shrugging it off, Mark returned to the office.

The rest of the night went uninterrupted, and after Micah arrived at the office the next morning, Mark met Lucas at the feed and grain as they picked up their weekly supplies. As they worked at the ranch that afternoon, Lucas realized something was weighing on his son's mind.

"Care to talk about it?" Lucas asked as he looked up from nailing a board in place.

"Pa, last week, when everyone was getting sick… I… I saw a side of Joanna that I hadn't before."

"Is that good or bad?"

"Good," Mark answered. "Really good… Pa… well, it's no secret to you I've enjoyed Joanna's company since she arrived in town. I guess it's kinda obvious…"

"Kinda obvious?" Lucas chuckled.

"Pa… I told her I wanted to court her. And I would've talked to you about it first, but… but you were here, and we were in town… and we were in the moment, and I knew… Pa, I want to marry her. She's the woman I want to spend the rest of my life with."

Lucas looked at his son for several moments, trying to find the words to say.

"…Don't you think you should get to know her a little more before you think about marriage?"

"Isn't that what courtship is all about?"

"I suppose it is…"

"And aren't you always the one getting on my case about getting married?"

"I suppose I am," Lucas chuckled. "I'm happy for you, Son. Just know that you don't have to rush into things and if she is the one for you, then I can't wait to welcome her into the family."

"She's the one, Pa. I can't see my future without her there. …She reminds me so much of Ma… the way she takes care of people and the way she wants to help people. During the epidemic, her brother came through town and tried to convince her to leave so she wouldn't get sick. But she said she couldn't leave… that North Fork was her town and like her family. She was prepared to see this through, even though she could've ended up getting sick or even dying. Based on what you've told me about Ma and what I remember, I couldn't help but see Ma in her as she explained that to me. I hope one day, we have a marriage just like yours and Ma's."

"I'm sure one day, you will, Mark."

Saturday came and went, Mark returning to town to stand shift that evening. Sunday morning, Joanna sat with Lou and the McCains before they and Micah enjoyed Sunday dinner at Lou's.

Mid-afternoon, Lucas took his leave, knowing Mark had plans with Joanna that evening.

"Mark, I'll see you tomorrow."

"I'll be home tonight," Mark reminded. "It's Sunday, remember?"

"Guess I forgot; have a goodnight. Lou, thanks for the meal. And Micah…"

"I'll stay out of trouble, don't worry. I'm looking forward to having my Sunday night shift back since your son has stolen it from me the last few weeks."

"Hey, I would've gladly given them up. You were too lazy to get out of your sick bed," Mark quipped.

"Have a good night, Lucas-boy."

Lucas mounted up on Razor and headed home. He worked on a few of the evening barn chores before putting a stew on for supper. Lucas had been settled in his chair reading for a while when a knock sounded at the door. He rose to answer it, and a huge smile spread across his face as he saw who was standing on the porch.

"Tom, it's good to see you!" Lucas exclaimed as he shook the man's hand and let him inside. "How long has it been?"

"Oh, I'd say at least five years now. You're looking good, Lucas."

The rancher offered his friend a seat and shut the door. "What brings you back here?"

"I was passing through on business and I figured I'd stop by and catch up for a little bit. How have you been? And that boy of yours, how's Mark?"

"I'm good, Mark's good… and has his sights on getting married," Lucas chuckled. "He's out right now with a young lady in town."

"Mark? He can't be old enough…"

"That he is. It's like I blinked and he was grown."

"He still helping you run this place?"

"Sure is, but he's also Micah's deputy now."

"Mark is Micah's deputy?" Tom Benton asked in surprise.

"And a fine one at that. I almost couldn't believe it when I watched Micah pin that badge on Mark's shirt."

"Then he was the one who got shot up?"

"What do you mean?" Lucas asked in confusion.

"…Well I happened upon some paperwork and read some reports about the bank robbery a while ago and… all the report said was Deputy McCain; I just assumed it was talking about you."

"What do you mean, "happened upon some paperwork"? Tom, you don't "happen" upon anything."

"Alright, so I had to do some research about a case I was working on."

"What kind of case?"

"…Sorry Lucas. I would tell you, but… I could lose my job."

"Sounds serious," Lucas replied in concern. "…But I understand. Would you like to join me for supper? It should be ready soon."

"Sure, Luke."

The two old friends continued to talk over the course of the evening. As they conversed, Benton started noticing something… strange. Several things, he realized. As Lucas stood to get the coffee from the stove, Tom watched as his friend used his right hand to grab and squeeze his left arm for the umpteenth time that evening. Even in the dim lighting, Tom could see that the color seemed to be slowly draining from Lucas's face. As Lucas sat down again, Benton saw perspiration on Lucas's forehead.

"Luke, you alright? You don't look too good."

"I-I'm fine," Lucas answered as he tried to pour a cup of coffee, but missed the cup.

"Lucas?" Tom asked in concern as he stood.

"Don't w-worry, it- it'll cl-clean." As Lucas stood to get a towel, Benton saw how unbalanced his friend was and how unsteady his breathing became.

"Lucas, I think we need to get you to the doctor…"

"I'm f-fine," Lucas insisted as he sat down again. "J-just a little t-tired, th…that's all…"

"Yeah, Lucas, that's not all. Come on."

Benton stood to help Lucas out of the chair, but before he could reach him, Benton watched his friend fall out of the chair and collapse onto the floor.

"LUCAS!"