Chapter 21
Butte Meadows, Nebraska - May 1874
Violette's scream echoed through the hotel lobby, shattering the peaceful Sunday evening. "She's not here!" She cried, her voice laced with raw panic.
Louise, hurried over and placed a comforting hand on Violette's trembling shoulder. "There, there, sweetheart," she soothed. "Gabrielle must have just needed some time to cool down after your argument."
Buck, his brow furrowed with concern, stepped forward. "Maybe she just needs some space to clear her head," he offered, his voice gentle.
Violette shook her head, her eyes wide and frantic. "No, this isn't like her at all! Something's happened, I just know it!" Tears welled up in her eyes, spilling over and tracing a glistening path down her cheeks.
"Vee," Buck said, his voice firm yet calming as he knelt before her. He grasped her hands, his touch warm and reassuring. "We can't do anything tonight. But I promise you, first thing in the morning, I'll be out searching for her. If she's not back by then."
Kid, ever the optimist, offered a small smile. "Buck's right, Violette. I'm sure Gabrielle is just fine. Maybe she went for a walk to get some fresh air."
Violette's gaze darted from Buck to Kid, searching for any flicker of doubt in their eyes. But their expressions held only unwavering determination. Taking a shaky breath, she met Buck's gaze.
"What if she's not?" She whispered, her voice barely audible.
Buck squeezed her hands gently. "She will be," he said with quiet conviction. He leaned forward and wrapped his arms around her, offering a silent comfort. In that moment, the warmth of his embrace was the only solace she could find.