Chapter 47
SW boarder of Nebraska - September 1874
Buck rustled around the fire, straining coffee through a cloth and discarding the grounds. He divided last night's dinner beans onto plates and unwrapped a couple of biscuits.
"Mmm, is that bacon and eggs I smell?" Gabrielle stretched and turned towards him, a hopeful glint in her eyes. "Maybe a warm croissant?"
"Keep dreamin'," Buck chuckled, turning to see her wince slightly. "You alright?"
"Just a bit stiff," she admitted, rubbing her leg. "Mornings are always the worst."
Buck offered his hand to help her rise. "Here you go."
"Did you sleep well?" She asked, a smile gracing her lips.
"Well enough," Buck replied playfully. "Considering I had a rock for a pillow most of the night." He presented her with a plate. "Breakfast is served."
Gabrielle eyed the meal with amusement. "You know, Buck, I thought the biggest challenge on this trip would be the riding. But maybe it's the food."
"Hey!" Buck feigned offense. "You loved dinner last night."
"Dinner was wonderful," she conceded, taking a bite.
"Coffee?"
"Yes, please."
Buck handed her a mug. "Black, I'm afraid. No cream or sugar."
Gabrielle took a sip, trying to hide a grimace.
Buck noticed her expression. "Judging by your face, I'd say that's strong stuff." He took a swig from his own cup and grimaced. "Wow, you weren't kidding."
A fond smile touched Gabrielle's lips. "There's this little cafe downtown Baltimore," she began, reminiscing. "They have the most incredible pastries. And their coffee is perfectly smooth and delicious."
Buck finished his beans and began to pack up camp. As he saddled the horses, he turned to Gabrielle with a curious glint in his eyes. "Have you ever ventured outside of Baltimore, Brie? Besides this trip, of course."
"Mother took me a few times to New York," Gabrielle brushed the dust off her dress. "I've always wanted to travel though. I want to eat crepes in Paris, walk along the cobblestone roads in London." She looked up at him excitedly. "I want to see the places I've read about in books."
"Well, when you do get to travel," Buck said, helping her onto the horse, "don't forget to have coffee in Italy. They say it's the best."
Gabrielle settled into the saddle, a hopeful glint in her eyes. "Do you think we'll reach Butte Meadows by tonight?"
"Most likely not," Buck replied, adjusting the reins. "Tomorrow seems more realistic, as long as the journey continues smoothly."