Author's Note: For those of you wondering about Buck, Ezra, and JD, I have added this little snippet – which technically is the end of Chapter 6, but since it did not hit me until today, it will have to stand on its own. These three will appear in upcoming chapters. They were not overly talkative when I started this little endeavor several years ago. Hope you enjoy.
Lost and Found – Part 7
Ezra Standish stopped in front of the bat wing doors of the saloon and batted at the dust on his jacket. With a final tug to his shirt cuffs, he entered the establishment. The remaining two lawmen were seated at their usual table, albeit rather empty, and he stopped at the bar for a beer before sauntering over. The gambler took a seat, a draw of the refreshing liquid and eyed his companions. They looked as tired as he felt. "Gentlemen," he greeted them upon setting his beverage down.
"Ezra," Buck acknowledged.
"Hey, Ezra. Any news from the others yet?" JD queried before trying to hide a yawn.
"As a matter of fact," the conman stated, retrieving a piece of paper from his inside jacket pocket. "It seems that our Mr. Tanner has yet to regain knowledge of his past. And, according to Mr. Sanchez, it may take some time." He handed the telegram to Buck to read for himself.
"So they aren't coming back anytime soon?" JD asked, disappointed.
"Looks that way, JD." Buck shook his head after reading the brief message.
The men had been kept abreast of the situation with Vin. Of course, only so much could be said in a telegram. The woman was blind, and Vin was protective. And, as of yet, he still had no memory of them.
JD frowned. "What if he don't remember? What then? You think Chris, Josiah and Nathan will come back without him?"
Buck and Ezra exchanged a glance. They had all wondered that at one time or another. There was no way to say.
Ezra finished his beer and pushed the empty mug toward the center of the table. "That, Mr. Dunn, is what we would all like to know. Now, if you gentlemen will excuse me, I have an appointment with my feather pillow. I bid you adieu."
The two men watched Ezra ascend the stairs to his room. They were all tired. Dividing their duties between the three of them was taking a toll, and they were ready for their associates to return.