The next morning at breakfast, Cipriano came in, nodding at everyone. "Patron", he started right away, "This morning one of the men noticed that about fifty head have escaped through the fence in the north pasture."
Murdoch sighed, looking at his sons. Scott and Johnny both looked down at their breakfasts, knowing how their day would be spent. Jumping up from his spot, Johnny looked at the Segundo and said "We'll be right there, Cip".
He then looked at Polly with a half-smile, not sure what to say. She looked up at him, her eyes somewhat hesitant, but her smile full and bright. "Why don't I go into the kitchen and make some lunch for you and Scott."
He followed into the room, noticing that it was empty, wondering where Maria was, but appreciating the unexpected privacy. He lightly grabbed her arm, and pulling her into a corner, kissed her passionately. When they broke apart a couple of minutes later, he looked down at her and started to say "Sorry, Polly, I know this ain't a great start to things."
She looked at him and smiled "It's okay, Johnny, I knew this was workin' ranch and I know from … "she stopped a bit before she continued …"My childhood that ranches take a lot of work. But remember, when we go to San Francisco in a few months, you'll be all mine for a week." And with that she tilted her head up and he kissed her again. When they broke apart the next time, she moved around him and looking around the kitchen, started to find things to make a lunch saying "You go out and get your horses saddled, I'll bring your lunches when they're ready."
"Thanks, Polly. For everything" he said, feeling happy at her understanding.
***** L ***** L *****
When Scott and Johnny returned, it was already dark. The cattle had been returned and the fence repaired, but they were both dirty and exhausted. Scott headed straight to the bathhouse, but Johnny wanted to see how Polly was doing, and headed into the house. Removing his boots and jacket, he went to the great room, and peaked in, happy with what he saw.
Theresa and Polly were sitting on the sofa, comparing knitting projects. Martha was leaning over the arm of the chair in which Murdoch was sitting, looking at a picture book with him, and pointing at something excitedly. Polly looked into the doorway and exclaimed "Johnny! You're back!" she stood up and continued "We put supper in the warmer for you and Scott."
Johnny smiled at her excitement and said "Thanks. I'll just go get cleaned up a bit and have a bite." Looking at the wall clock Polly said "Martha, it'll be bedtime in fifteen minutes." The girl nodded happily and continued to look at the book with Murdoch.
Johnny looked at Polly and said, "I'll follow you two when I'm cleaned up and eaten." Polly just smiled at him and nodded, turning back to her knitting with Theresa.
***** L ***** L *****
Johnny walked into their bedroom, to see Polly brushing her hair in front of the vanity in her robe. He walked over and sat behind her, again taking the brush from her hand and brushing. After a couple of strokes, he leaned over and gently kissed her collarbone.