My apologies. Life has been crazy for me and it seems for my beta as well. This has been sitting in my inbox for a week, and only after a PM from a reader did it dawn on me that it was there. So, sorry for the wait. Thanks to Smacky 30 for her beta skills, and Jord for her…well she helped push me to write when I didn't feel like it. And she also spawned some crazy ideas.


The Other Side

Sara woke up alone. She knew Gil was gone even before her hand moved to the side of the bed where her lover had slept. She found a note instead of his warm body.

Sara,

I accompanied Al to town. Breakfast is waiting for you down stairs. Don't worry about helping today, just get some rest, you deserve it. Later I will take you to get more clothes.

Love, Gil

She smiled at his generosity and climbed out of bed. Sara cringed at the thought of wearing the same garments she had worn for the past four days. Her eyes scanned the room in search of her clothing, but they were nowhere to be seen. The only thing she found was a robe in the place she had left them the night before.

Picking up the garment, she ran her hands over the silky material. The idea of wearing such delicate material made her feel awkward. She wasn't used to having such fine things. But she knew that she had to wear something down stairs. The thought of walking around naked only appealed to her when she was alone with Gil.

Sara descended the stairs and sat at the dining table just as she had done last night. There was a variety of fruit arranged as a centerpiece. She plucked an apple from the basket and bit into the ripe fruit.

"Oh good, you're up."

She turned, startled by the voice. "Oh, yeah. Good morning."

Angela, the woman hired by Al to do the cooking for everyone, returned her greeting. "I can prepare you some eggs and toast if you want. "

"Thanks Angela, I'd like that." She munched on the apple while her breakfast was being prepared. When it was placed in front of her, Sara said, "Angela…can I ask you something?"

"Sure." Angela sat down.

"Well…um…if you don't mind telling me, how did you get here? I mean working for Al." Sara took a small bite of her toast as she waited for an answer.

Angela grinned, "Al knew my parents. They owned the land to the south. The cabin where you and Gil were living belonged to them. When I was seventeen, they were killed by cattle rustlers. I always suspected Sam Braun sent the men." She remained emotionless as she described the scenario. "We found my father's will. He left the land to Al, and if I was not of age, I was to be raised by him as well. Instead of leaving I chose to stay."

"You don't mind cooking for everyone?"

"No, I enjoy it. Oh, I've laundered your clothes and if you'd like, I can prepare a bath for you as well." Sara gave herself a sniff. Angela giggled and left her alone to eat in peace.

After her bath, Sara slipped into clean clothes. She helped tidy up around the house while chatting with Angela. They had lost track of time until the sound of horses outside interrupted them. Sara rushed out onto the porch.

Gil climbed down from the wagon and greeted Sara. She practically leapt into his arms as she welcomed him with a kiss.

He returned her kiss with one of his own. "Did you miss me?"

"Only when I woke up." Sara playfully smiled at him. "So, get anything good in town?"

"I sent word to Nick."

"The man who was staying with you?"

Gil nodded. "We'll need him." Al made his way off of the wagon and passed the couple to head inside. "Al has offered to let us stay with him as long as we need to."

Sara knew Gil hated being supported by others, but this time he seemed to make an exception. "Whatever you think we need to do."

Over the summer, Gil and Sara lived in the main house with Al. Gil returned to the burnt cabin and gathered the money he had saved. Under the floor in the cabin, he had dug a hole and had placed a small iron lockbox inside. This was where he'd stored all of his bounty money. Meanwhile, Gil continued to send word to Nick that he needed his help with the ongoing situation he was faced with. The first several months he and Sara were left in peace, but soon the not so subtle threats resumed.

Gil was loading his saddle bags and rifle on Zeke when Sara walked out of the house, "Where are you headed?"

"Across the border to the Arizona Territory." He pulled a leather sting tight before moving to stand in front of her. "I'll be back in a week. Stay here, please." He waited until she nodded her agreement, then stepped forward and kissed her. "You know, maybe we should get married." His statement caused every muscle in her body to freeze. "I mean, if that's what you want."

Sara thought briefly and before he could say anything to get out of it she responded, "Yes." Gil gave her a confused look. "Yes, I'll marry you."

Joy surged through him and he wrapped his arms around Sara to hoist her into the air. She held on to his shoulders and kissed him.

Gil let her down but kept his hold on her, "I'll be back as soon as I can. I love you."

"I love you, too." She graciously accepted a final kiss and watched him climb onto his horse and ride off. Sara continued to watch the dust until it had settled and Gil was no longer in sight. She felt a shiver go through her body as she thought of being without him for an extended period of time.

After five days, Sara was going stir crazy being in the house the majority of the time. She helped Jose feed and groom the horses in the mornings, and then helped Angela cook the evening meal. She learned how to make different entrées and even created a new desert that she knew Gil would enjoy.

That evening Sara ate quietly in the company of Al and Angela. She picked at her food and began wondering if anything had happened to Gil. Then Al mentioned a bit of information he'd learned that cheered her up. "Gil sent word that he may be home as soon as tonight."

Sara perked up at the news. Al smiled at her and knew it was what she was hoping to hear. "Um…why did he go to Arizona?" She asked nervously.

Al used his napkin and wiped his face, "He got word that Nick would be in the area."

"So he went to find him?" Al nodded as Sara hoped Gil would be sucsessful in finding help.

After dinner Sara was enjoying a quiet bath, preparing for Gil's return. She sank back into the tub and let the warm water soothe her skin.

"Comfortable?"

At first she was started by the voice, but instantly recognized it. "Yes."

Gil leaned over her and kissed her upside down. "I've got a great view from here."

"I'm sure," Sara laughed. She stood in the water and turned to face him. "Welcome home."

"Thank you." He helped her out of the tub and handed her a robe.

"I don't think I'll be needing that," she winked and headed straight for the bedroom.

Gil watched her walk away from him, and the minute she left his sight he followed. He shed his duster, hat, and gun belt as he approached the bed. Sara was lying on her side using the curves of her body to seduce him. Gil hurriedly removed his clothes and joined her on the bed. She wrapped her arms around him pulling his body down to cover hers. He quickly attacked her neck with his lips.

"I missed you," she moaned as he began to make love to her.

xxxxxxxxxxxx

The next morning Sara woke feeling Gil curled up behind her. It was a rare occasion that he woke up with her. She smiled and deliberately pushed back into him. Gil groaned and held her tighter against him. "Hmm…I know what you're trying to do," he said, exhaustion evident in his voice.

Sara tried to get away from him but he held on tight. "You have no idea what I'm trying to do," she teased him.

"I hope it has to do with marrying me."Gil pressed his lips against the back of her bare shoulder. Sara's heart skipped a beat as she remembered his proposal before he left. "I talked with Al last night, and if you are still willing to be my wife, we'll get married."

"Today?"

"Today." Gil let her turn in his arms to face him, "Sara, if you don't want…"

She was quick to silence him with a kiss, "I'd marry you right now if I could."

He grinned at her. "Then we had better get up," Her face filled with joy, "Because by this evening you'll be Mrs. Gil Grissom." Sara couldn't hide her excitement and practically threw herself on him.

After they celebrated their upcoming nuptials, Gil and Sara descended the stairs only to be surprised by the presence of a visitor.

"Well, good morning." Heather greeted the happy couple.

Gil raised his eyebrow, "Heather, it's been sometime."

Heather smiled, "Yes it has. Jim has been asking about you."

"I have no doubt."

"And I see you have been doing well," Heather referred to Sara.

Sara blushed at the woman's observations. "I have. So, what brings you all the way out here?"

"Well…" Heather moved over to a trunk that was sitting in the middle of the entryway. "I've brought several dresses and Angela and I thought we would help you get dressed for your big day."

Sara grinned from ear to ear as she left Gil to inspect what Heather had offered. Leaving the women to themselves, Gil went outside to find Al.

Al drove the buggy and Gil rode alongside as they headed to town. The first place they stopped was the brothel for a quick drink. Al suggested a shave and Gil couldn't argue. Catherine had him sit in a chair and she proceeded to shave his face.

"You missed a spot," Gil told her as he ran a finger over the small strip of hair left on his upper lip.

"No I didn't." He narrowed his eyes at her and she decided to let him in on a little secret. "Listen, Sara told me she really enjoyed your facial hair. So I left a tickler." She winked at him and stepped back.

Gil blushed then hurriedly paid her and took his leave. Once outside, he headed down the street to meet Al at the General Store.

"Okay," Al said, "you need something other than that black duster and filthy hat to get married in."

"Al, don't you think you're taking this a little too far?" Gil glanced around and noticed that a space had been cleared away in front of a mirror.

"No. Gil…" Al placed a hand on his shoulder and led him to the mirror. "I don't have any children, nor will I have any. I've always thought of you as a son. This is a special day for me as well as you. Let me do this, will you?"

Gil reluctantly nodded. "This is for Sara too. She deserves it."

Al smiled and watched as Gil began going through a selection of dress clothes. And within the hour he was able to see the transformation. Gil stood before him dressed in a black wool jacket, black pants, and a grey shirt. Only when he put his hat on did Al protest. "I don't think so."

"What?"

Al shook his head. "That thing is filthy. Here..." He hobbled over and retrieved a new black hat and shoved it onto Gil's head. "…Try that."

Gil adjusted the hat and looked himself over in the mirror. "What do you think Sara will say?"

"I think she'll have a hard time waiting for the ceremony to be over." Al and Gil turned and looked at Jim, "I never thought I'd see the day that Gil Grissom gets hitched."

"Me neither," Gil shrugged and shook Jim's hand. "Thanks."

"For what?" Jim asked confused.

"Well, if I get scared and run, I know you guys will bring me back." The three men shared a laugh before Al paid for Gil's clothing and they left the store. "What time is it?" Gil asked as he climbed on Zeke.

Al shrugged, "I don't know, check your watch."

"I don't have…a…watch." Gil felt his pocket and could tell something was in it. "Al." The other man smiled as Gil lifted a new gold pocket watch from the jacket. "Albert."

Al could only offer a smug smile, "Call it a wedding gift."

Gil opened the cover. "We had better be getting back," He muttered, his voice suspiciously thick.

They started to the edge of town when Gil noticed they had a following. He turned in the saddle and looked at the people that were trailing them. Jim was driving a buckboard wagon, and sitting beside him was the preacher from the small church. Catherine was driving a small buggy and riding in it were several girls from the brothel. He shook his head and knew they had all just invited themselves to his wedding.

Half way back to the house Gil noticed a dust cloud approaching them. He moved over to the other side of Al's buggy fearing it might be danger. Gil instructed him to stop as they all watched several riders approach. He squinted under his new hat and once they were close enough recognized the lead rider.

In no time the four riders were standing before them. Gil smiled as he rode up to greet them. "Nick thanks for coming."

Nick shook his hand, "Anything for steady pay. And like you asked, I found a few more."

Gil looked over the three other riders. "Can they shoot?"

Nick smiled, "Gil Grissom, I'd like you to meet; Warrick Brown, Greg Sanders, and Bobby Dawson. Warrick is a buffalo soldier sharpshooter, Bobby is great with any gun, and Greg…well…" Gil raised his eyebrow at Nick. "He's good company."

Gil rolled his eyes, "I'll take what I can get."

"Hey, what's with the get up?" Nick pointed to his outfit.

"Um…actually…I'm getting married today," Gil confessed.

"Well shit howdy!" Nick laughed. "Gil Grissom's getting married. Oh, I've gotta see this."

Gil pointed to the back of the wagons, "Get in line."

"Come on boys." Nick waved and they fell in place.

As the group approached the main house, Heather came out on the porch to greet them. "Okay, Sara's still getting ready, so decide where this thing is going to take place and we'll get her there." She proceeded to head inside but stopped and added. "Oh, and no one can come in." She playfully shook her finger at Brass who smiled in return.

Nick, Warrick, Greg, and Bobby tied their horses and quickly helped the ladies out of their buggy. Gil went with Al as he headed around to the back of the house to check out a spot for the wedding. Jim and the preacher followed.

"This works for me." Gil referred to the area.

The rest of the group joined them and Nick was quick to ask, "Is Mandy still around?"

Gil nodded his head, "I thought I saw her in one of the wagons." He noticed how fast Nick's face lit up. "I'm sure she'll be just as excited to see you."

While they waited, Greg helped Brass unload the small wagon. They arranged a table outside with several bottles of liquor. Warrick chatted up Catherine, while Nick, Al, and Gil discussed the situation further.

The visiting was interrupted by Heather getting everyone's attention. "Okay, we're ready."

Al went to the bottom of the porch steps, the preacher stood next to Gil, as the rest of the small crowd took sides. It was mostly girls on one and guys on the other. Heather joined the bride's side.

Gil stood and watched as Sara emerged from the house wearing a low cut blue dress. She slowly descended down the steps and graciously took Al's offered arm. They walked together towards Gil. He could see the sparkle in her eyes when they stopped before him.

"Who presents the woman to this man?" The preacher started.

"I do," Al announced proudly and gave Sara a good luck kiss on her cheek. "You look beautiful."

Sara stepped towards Gil as he took her hands in his. The ceremony was short and to the point as everyone watched in silence. Only when Gil leaned in and kissed Sara to seal their vows did applause break out. And several of the men hollered out loud.

They all gathered around the booze and socialized with several toasts and friendly exchanges. Catherine was talking with both Greg and Warrick. Nick was trying to seduce Mandy. Brass and Heather were talking with Al. And Gil was talking to Bobby about guns. Sara was listening and learning while keeping her arms wrapped around her husband.

The sound of horses rapidly approaching silenced the group. Gil looked towards the noise. He gently moved Sara behind him while Brass and the other men stood to flank him.

Sam Braun and nine other men rode up and stopped. "Well, I heard rumors, but I just had to see it for myself." He peered around trying to get a peek at Sara.

"You would do well to heed any rumor you hear about me." Gil remarked in a soft voice.

Sam laughed, "You don't get it, do you Gil. I own most of this area, and just because you team with a small timer like Al, doesn't mean you two can run me off."

Gil and his group stood firm as Al stepped forward. "Sam, you've been pushing people out of here for years; using your boys to kill innocent people. Well I've finally had enough."

Sam narrowed his eyes at the threat. "Well, at least my guys don't marry whores." The men around Sam laughed as the tension between the two groups grew. One man was laughing so hard that he reached back towards his aching side.

"Hey!" Nick called out seeing the movement and both sides were quick to draw their guns on each other.

"Hold on there," Sam called to his group.

Gil had both of his guns aimed at Sam while the rest were taking aim at random bodies. Al held up his hands in hopes of preventing any bloodshed. Brass had been watching from the side just listening to the argument, but when guns were drawn decided to interfere. "Sam, why don't you take your boys and ride on home."

Sam leaned back and smiled at Brass, "Why Jim, I didn't think you had the balls to get in the middle of anything." He chuckled at his own remark while the others were focused on the possibility of shooting their guns. "Come on boys." Sam turned his horse, and slowly his men holstered their guns and followed.

They all watched as he disappeared in the distance and holstered their guns. With several relieved sighs, everyone went back to visiting, but after the rude interruption by Sam and his men, they were on edge. Gil told Nick to take Warrick, Greg, and Bobby into town for the night. Slowly everyone left after congratulating Sara and Gil.

Al and Angela went into the house and straight to bed. Gil stood outside and stared off into the distance. Sara stood by his side. "What's the matter?"

He sighed, "Sam. He's not going to stop."

Sara took his hand in hers, "Come on, let's go to bed." She couldn't hide the seductive tone of her voice. Gil didn't respond but couldn't resist as she gently tugged on his hand.

He was still on edge as he undressed and climbed into bed. The thought of being able to take power away from Sam remained on the front of his mind. Gil sat deep in though and never noticed Sara reenter the room.

"Gil…" She moved to sit beside him. He blinked and focused his eyes on her. "Forget about Sam for now, let's focus on us tonight." She leaned forward and pressed her lips to his. Sara used her tongue to entice him, and Gil opened his mouth to fully kiss her.

His hands went to her hair as Sara carefully maneuvered herself so she was straddling his lap. She could feel him harden beneath her as his hands started roaming her body. Gil pushed the thin robe off of her shoulders and began kneading her breasts. Sara broke away from his lips and moaned as he moved his mouth to tease a nipple. While he busied himself with her breasts, Sara positioned him at her moist entrance and slowly sank down on him. Gil groaned at the contact. Sara began moving on him slowly, enjoying the consummation of their marriage.

Gil leaned back and enjoyed the sensations for several minutes, but then the slightest bit of frustration he had been holding in came out. Quickly her rolled her over and pushed as deep as he could into her. Sara gripped his shoulders as he worked up a fast pace, bringing their bodies together in a frenzy. Gil breathed heavily while Sara gritted her teeth as she endured the pain that began to overtake the pleasure. With a final deep hard thrust, Gil released himself in her.

Sara tried to stop the tears from falling as they formed, but she couldn't. Gil pushed himself up on his arms so he could see her face. The moisture around her eyes drove the frustration out of his mind. "Oh Sara, I'm sorry honey." He tried to kiss away the tears.

She sniffled, "I'm fine."

"I hurt you. I promised I would never hurt you." Gil began to get angry with himself for what he had just done.

Sara caressed his face and tried to calm him, "Gil…I'm fine. It's just a special night…"

"And I ruined it."

"No." She pulled him down to kiss his cheek, "the night's just beginning."


Thank you to those still reading and those who leave reviews. They are fun to read.

TDCSI