Chapter 18

Rock Creek, Nebraska

January 1867

Kaylie stood frozen as Jimmy, Buck and the stranger named Parker discussed her. Their words seamed underwater as she tried to focus on what was being said.

"I'm sorry it took me so long to find you, darling," Conner said, his arm encircling Kaylie's shoulders. "Once we get home, you'll feel better though. I'm sure everything will come back to you."

"No, I don't," Her eyes darted from him to Buck, then to Jimmy. "No, this isn't right."

"Once we get home." He encircled her waist and pulled her towards the door.

As Kaylie was led down the boardwalk, her eyes flew to Buck instantly. Meeting her gaze, Buck quickly signed to her. He hadn't thought of it, but somehow it came naturally. He didn't realize until he saw the recognition in her eyes.

Buck sighed heavily and motioned to Hickok. He didn't know what this Parker guy was up to, but it was definitely no good, that was for sure.

"I'm sorry Buck. I truly am."

"That's not her husband." Buck stated.

"Buck, I checked all the papers, they are all official."

"When were they married?"

"Three years ago."

"He's a liar."

"Buck, don't do this to yourself."

"You can't let him leave with her! I'm telling you that man is not married to her."

"You need to give me proof that he's not her husband not just your say so because you are in love with her." Jimmy sighed.

"She was untouched." Buck said quietly. "He can't be her husband of three years."

"I'm not going to ask you how you know this." Jimmy shook his head. He knew that was a very personal omission for Buck to give up and he wouldn't have done so lightly. He thought on it for a moment.

"Kaylie told me in confidence when we were kids that her uncle had behaved inappropriately with her. She was just a child then. That was why she ran away, it's how she ended up at the mission school. I don't know how much of it is true or how much is childhood fear, but with that history, you cannot let that man leave with her. I won't let him!" Buck's voice rose with urgency as he spoke.

"I hope I don't regret this." Jimmy exhaled loudly and raced out to catch the pair walking towards the hotel. "Mr. Johnston! Sorry I forgot to mention. I can't let you take her out of town limits."

"I've shown you all the necessary paperwork, more than necessary," he insisted defensively holding Kaylie tightly to his side. "She's my wife, and I want to take her home."

"Well, you see, because of her diminished capacity," Hickok began, his voice steady but firm, "we need to conduct further investigatory work to ensure her safety and well-being. Given the circumstances, it's crucial that we proceed with caution." He glanced at Kaylie, his expression softening with concern. "We're here to protect her interests, Mr. Johnston, just as we would for anyone in her situation."

"Well we will be staying at the hotel where you can find us then." He grabbed Kaylie's arm and dragged her from the towards the hotel.

"Further investigatory work?" Despite the seriousness of the situation, Buck looked at his friend with amusement.

"Like that one?" Hickok smiled.

"Sound like a real Pinkerton." Buck smiled then his countenance turned serious. "Thank you Jimmy."

With a solemn nod, Jimmy patted his friend on the back, a silent gesture of solidarity.