A/N: Sorry this took so long to get up! I've been really busy lately but was on vacation last week so I took some time to finish this chapter. You'll be happy to know the next chapter is also in progress! Thanks to everyone who has reviewed so far! I've also noticed a couple of grammar/spelling errors in chapter 1 which I will fix when able. On with the story! –horsefly-
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"Ahh! Earth – 1879. By the looks of things I'd say Colorado. " The Doctor declared.
Sand. Ice. Sandy ice. Lots of – empty buildings? That was strange. No people in sight. "But Doctor, where is everybody?" Rose asked.
The Doctor was also puzzled (not that he'd ever admit it). The town should be busy – bustling even! And..WAIT! Well, he smiled wickedly; these ears may not be quite as..er..large as his previous form's but he could still hear quite well.
"Do you hear that Rose?"
Now that he mentioned it, Rose could hear something. But what? It almost sounded like…
"Yeah. Sounds like a party." She answered smugly.
"That, my dear Rose, is because everyone one is gathered in the building down the street" He gestured, rather cockily, in that direction "for a Christmas celebration. I think a few guests are missing don't you? Should we 'crash?'" He suggested.
Before Rose could answer he was halfway down the street.
"Wait Doctor!" She yelled.
But by the time she arrived at the building he was deep inside. Rose sighed deeply. Would he ever slow down! Oh well, better join the festivities. She plastered on a smile and stepped through the door.
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There certainly were a lot of people inside! Lots of dancing going on. Now where was the Doctor? Ah! There he was! Unfortunately, Rose was so caught up looking (not staring, mind you!) at the Doctor that she didn't notice the strange, burly man who came up beside her.
"Hey darlin'. Aren't you a pretty thing! Dance with me." The strange man commanded.
What?
"Um, no thanks." Rose answered.
"Little lady, I'm not askin' I'm tellin'" The tall and..large.. man answered, grabbing her hand.
Well if that's how it's going to be! Rose was starting to get scared…and a little ticked off! She glanced across the room – where was the Doctor! Almost here, and he appeared to be none to pleased about mystery man's behavior. In fact, Rose noticed a strange glint in the Doctor's eyes. It almost looked like…nah. The Doctor jealous? Over her? Maybe this corset was taking its toll – the oxygen deprivation was finally going to her brain!
As Rose pondered the frankly fascinating, idea of the Doctor's jealousy, a woman came over. Apparently, this woman was going to take the situation into her own hands.
"You're just barkin' at a knot Bart. Anyone can see she and that handsome feller over yonder are married!"
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Married! Well, 'marriage' did seem like a suitable guise at the moment. At any rate, it was a better solution than getting into a brawl. Which, up until now, the Doctor had been SERIOUSLY considering. This 'Bart' needed a good punch in the mouth.
"Ah yes. Married. That we are! Mr. and Mrs. John Smith at your service."
"Hello!" Rose remarked with a wave. She was shocked, relived, but also strangely disappointed that the Doctor didn't give Bart a swift kick. She must have imagined that feverish glint in his eyes.
"Well, Howdy folks! I'm Betty Jo and that feller you had trouble with was Bart. He's not usually so bad – just gets a tad possessive when he drinks. Had a little too much 'holiday punch', if you know what I mean." Betty Jo said with a wink.
That was all fine and dandy. Peachy keen. But Rose Marion Tyler would not have any blokes messin' about with her! 'Holiday punch' or not!
"Next time he can keep his hands off! If you know what I mean!" Rose said with a glare in Bart's direction.
This was why he…thought she was wonderful companion. Rose had such spirit! Never backed down!
"Honey…" The Doctor cautioned with a grin.
"Oh. Yeah. It's nice to meet you Betty Jo." Rose said sheepishly.
If Rose's 'outburst' bothered Betty Joe she didn't let on. If anything, she seemed to like Rose even more.
"I like a woman who speaks her mind!" Betty Jo said with a smile. "I haven't seen you folks around before. New in town ain't ya?"
"Just passing through. Thought we'd stay for the holidays." The Doctor said.
"In that case, welcome to Las Animas, Colorado. Watch out for that holiday punch!" Betty Jo laughed.
"We will!" The Doctor and Rose chimed in together.
"Ain't you two cute! Betty Jo exclaimed.
And if that made Rose blush…
"Aww, look! You're standing underneath the mistletoe!" Betty Jo added.
…this certainly would make her blush harder!
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A/N 2: I know it's a little cheesy but I couldn't resist the mistletoe! Any reviews would be much appreciated! Thanks :-)