Chapter 36

Zion Encampment, Wyoming - August 1874

Gabrielle, though she enjoyed Jane's company throughout the day, yearned for something more. While Jane diligently read scriptures aloud, Gabrielle's mind wandered to the world outside. The lush green trees visible between the fluttering curtains were a constant tease, a reminder of the sunshine and freedom she craved.

Suddenly, the sound of excited chatter broke the quiet. Abigail burst into the room, her hands clasped with glee. "Mama! Father is home early!"

Jane, startled from her reading, set the scriptures down. She peeked out the window. "What? Is anything wrong?" She called out with concern. Early arrivals were uncommon for Luke.

"No need to worry, wife!" Luke's voice boomed from outside, his heavy footsteps stomping up the wooden porch. "With Brother Cross's help, we finished all the work early this week!"

A warm smile spread across Jane's face. "Wonderful!" She exclaimed, turning to greet her husband and offering a welcoming smile to Buck.

"How about a picnic with the children, followed by a swim in the river?" Luke boomed. "Anyone up for a swim?" He playfully chased his children around the small living space, their laughter filling the room.

"What about Gabrielle?" Jane asked, a touch of concern in her voice. "I should stay here and keep her company."

"Nonsense!" Luke boomed, tossing their youngest daughter in the air and catching her with a hearty laugh. "The girl needs some sunshine!"

"But she can't get down to the river, surely!" Jane gasped, her eyes widening with worry.

"No, no," Buck interjected, a reassuring pat on Luke's back. "Just to the oak tree in the front."

Jane's brow furrowed in contemplation. While concerned about another potential injury, she couldn't deny the logic in Luke's words. Fresh air and gentle exercise would likely benefit Gabrielle's healing leg. "Alright," she conceded. "Let me pack some food."

"Go get your sister," Luke instructed, giving Buck a nudge toward the back room.

Still holding his hat, Buck walked towards the back room and gently rapped on the door. "Gabrielle?" He called out.

"Come in," a voice replied faintly.

Buck pushed open the door and found Gabrielle propped up in bed, her gaze fixed on the window. A smile lit up her face as he entered. "Hey there," he greeted. "How are you feeling today?"

"Restless," she admitted, a hint of frustration in her voice. "And board."

"Where are your clothes?" He then turned and approached the closet, searching for suitable clothing.

"My dress was torn too badly to mend," Gabrielle sighed, shaking her head. "What's going on?" Gabrielle's brow furrowed in confusion. "Is something wrong? Are you taking me back to Butte Meadows already?"

Buck flashed her a reassuring grin. "No, and definitely no!" He chuckled. "There's something else I have in mind."

"You might need to get properly dressed if you plan on going out," Jane announced, pushing past Buck, she deposited a plain grey dress on the bed. "Go on and get out of here, Brother Cross. I'll get her presentable."

"What's going on?" Gabrielle looked at Jane, confusion filling her eyes.

"No need for concern, dear," Jane replied gently, handing her a warm washcloth. "The men have finished work early today. It's such a beautiful day."

A surge of excitement coursed through Gabrielle. "I'm going outside?" She exclaimed, eagerly wiping her face and arms with the washcloth. Relief and joy washed over her – the prospect of fresh air and sunshine felt like a dream.

"It's good to see you in such good spirits," Jane noted with a warm smile.

"I've been dying to get outside." Gabrielle confessed, her voice tinged with longing.

"Well, you be sure and take it slow," Jane cautioned, a motherly concern evident in her voice. "Exercise will be good for your leg, but don't overdo it."

"Yes, ma'am," Gabrielle replied.

Jane helped Gabrielle to her feet, her arm a steady support. Despite the daily practice walks, Gabrielle's leg still protested, a dull ache throbbing with each tentative step. Jane helped Gabrielle slip on the simple grey dress. It wasn't much, but it felt soft and comfortable against her skin.

"Now, take it slow, alright?" Jane remarked, her eyes filled with warmth. "Your brother will be your strong arm out there."

With careful steps, Gabrielle followed Jane out of the room. Buck stood waiting, a gentle smile etched on his face. He offered his arm, his touch firm and reassuring. Together, they stepped outside, the warm sunshine enveloping them in its golden glow.

The fresh air filled Gabrielle's lungs with a sweet, invigorating breath. The scent of wildflowers and sun-baked earth filled her senses. As they reached the oak tree, Gabrielle paused, leaning against its rough bark. Looking up at the sprawling branches overhead, she closed her eyes and let out a sigh of contentment.

The sound of laughter grew closer, mingled with the gentle murmur of the river. For the first time since arriving at the Peterson's house, Gabrielle felt a sense of peace, a feeling of belonging she hadn't dared to hope for.

Buck couldn't help but be captivated by the sight of Gabrielle leaning against the oak tree. Gone were the tailored city clothes and finery. Replaced with a plain grey sack of a dress, her hair, simply braided, cascaded down her back. The idyllic moment was shattered, however, by the joyous chaos of children's screams and excited laughter.

"Everyone in the wagon or you are going to have to walk to the river!" Boomed Luke's voice, breaking the tranquil spell.

Jane, with a warm smile on her face, quickly herded their children, helping the younger ones climb into the wagon. Luke offered his wife a hand up, pulling her onto the seat beside him. Buck and Gabrielle waved goodbye as the wagon, filled with chattering children, lumbered down the dirt road, a cloud of dust trailing behind it.

"How many children do they have?" Buck asked, squinting as he tried to count the bouncing figures in the back.

"Seven," Gabrielle replied, a hint of amusement dancing in her eyes.

"Seven?!" Buck exclaimed, shaking his head in mock disbelief. "Well, I guess we found out what they do for entertainment around here." Buck chuckled under his breath.

Gabrielle's eyes widened in mock outrage. "Buck!" She exclaimed, her lips twitching.

He arched an eyebrow playfully. "You know it's true."

Despite her attempt at a stern expression, a smile tugged at the corners of Gabrielle's lips. The more she tried to suppress it, the harder it became.

"Alright, alright," Buck conceded with a laugh, seeing her playful defiance. He tightened his arm around her waist gently. "There's a nice spot under a tree with a perfect view of the river. It's just a short walk."

"Thank you for staying with me," Gabrielle said, her voice softening. "I know you could have gone with them, so I appreciate you helping me get outside."

"Of course," Buck replied simply.

As they walked, they came across a gnarled tree root jutting out of the ground. When Gabrielle stumbled slightly, Buck instinctively lifted her a little over the obstacle with his free arm. A few steps later, a jolt of pain shot through her injured leg, causing her to cry out and grab his arm for support.

"Whoa there," Buck said quickly, steadying her. "Are you alright?"

"Just a little sore," she winced, trying to downplay the pain.

Buck surveyed the uneven ground. "These roots could be a hazard," he muttered. He stepped closer and extended a hand. "Here, put your arms around my neck and hold on tight."

Hesitantly, Gabrielle did as he instructed. Wrapping her arms around his neck, she felt him lift her securely and carry her down the gentle slope towards a small rise overlooking the creek.

When they reached level ground, he gently set her down. For a moment, their eyes met, and a warmth flooded Gabrielle's chest. She quickly broke the eye contact, pulling away from his touch and steadying herself.