Prologue......

Lucy Garth eased up on the accelerator and let her pickup coast to a stop as her gaze settled on the nearby corral. It had been a long day, working at Siler's ranch, taking Coggins tests on the horses he was getting ready to put on the show circuit. She was tired, dirty, and just wanted to get home to a hot shower. Thank goodness, Larabee had given her permission to use the little traveled access road that crossed his property behind his barn and corrals, knowing it cut off almost a half hour traveling time to her house.

Movement in the little corral just off the side of the road had caught her eye and she could not resist slowing. As her searching gray eyes swept the area, little lines furrowed her sweaty brow. It was not the lean blond Larabee working his horse in the circular pen, but rather his friend, the lanky longhaired Tanner.

Her lips settled into a smile as she watched him work or rather play, with the horse which followed him willingly about the pen without a lead. Every little bit he stopped to let it nuzzle him and she momentarily wondered at this quiet man. She had met him several times in passing when she'd made calls at the Larabee ranch. He seemed to spend quite a bit of time there and then he had called her, probably at the suggestion of Chris, when he had found the abandoned mare.

Lucy had happily tended the injured animal while he was out of town, going out of her way to help. The little mare had not only been injured, but malnourished, her ribs showing through the dirty coat so prominently you could count them from a distance. Most men would have chosen to have the animal put down, but the handsome Texan had asked her to do everything possible to save the horse.

Lucy had done her best, hoping the horse wouldn't break the man's heart by dying and she hadn't been disappointed. The sick animal had a strong spirit and even stronger will to live. The vet had been pleased with the mare's improvement, knowing it would make Larabee's quiet friend happy, bringing forth that shy, lopsided grin of his and would give her an excuse to continue seeing the soft hearted Texan. But with her erratic work hours and his, they never seemed to connect for more than a few minutes at a time. Her smile faded... another lost chance.....

She focused on the road and gave the pickup gas. That shower was going to be the highlight of her day, but she could not resist looking back at the man in the corral, seeing him wrap his arms about the little mare's neck and a wave of jealousy toward the horse swept over her. Disgusted at how pitiful she'd allowed her life to become when she could be envious of the affection shown a four-legged animal, Lucy dragged her gaze back to the road and drove on.

*******

Roan pony waiting at the gate,

Pawing, fretful, shaking your silver mane,

I will be there to feed you once again.

I will be there before it is too late.

Already it is late. Too much has been lost.

Summers you might have grazed in cool, deep grass,

Love I might have halted but let pass,

Let pass like sudden lightning, fearing the cost.

And the pine forests you never cantered through,

And the gilt halls where I never waltzed with a lover.

For both of us the promise of spring is over,

And little is left but rosemary and rue.

Roan pony, wait by the slanted rails,

I will be there before the light quite fails.

--Jean Todd Freeman

*******

Vin slowly walked the little mare toward the barn. The sun had finally drifted down below the nearby mountains and dusk was settling in, bringing a cooling breeze to the hot dusty day. At the barn, he pulled down brushes and as the mare munched her grain, he quickly but thoroughly groomed her. Finishing, he released her into the run, leaving the outer stall door open if she wished to gain entry back inside.

He took his time tending to the other horses, graining and haying each and filling buckets with fresh water. He paused in each stall, murmuring softly here, giving gentle strokes there as he worked his way down the barn aisle.

The horses, other than the little mare, were Chris Larabee's. With the team leader in Dallas, attending a weeklong seminar to please the judge, Vin had offered to stay at the ranch and tend the stock. He knew Chris could have just as easily turned them out to pasture, but he liked spending time away from the confines of the city. Besides, as he had told Chris, he had been on an assignment for three weeks and he needed to work with the mare. Somehow, his friend knew it was not just that.

After this last assignment, Vin needed time away from the city to heal both his body and his soul. Vin's own isolated cabin in the mountains, the place he'd escaped to as a bounty hunter when the world began to close in on him, was too far from the office for him to drive everyday so the sharpshooter hadn't been able to spend as much time there as he desired.

With an understanding nod and a flip of his keys, Chris had left him in charge. In truth, Larabee had been going to ask the sharpshooter to watch over his place, knowing his friend would take care of the ranch with a loving hand. That had been two days earlier and now, as night fell, with a fresh cup of coffee in hand, Vin slowly made his way to the front porch. Kicking off his boots, he collapsed on the squeaky old oak swing and closed his eyes.

Tanner sighed, not so much with weariness as with satisfaction. God, this was the life! If he was ever given the chance to go anywhere, be anything in history or time, he would opt for the old west. Now, in the 21st century, this was as close as he was going to get. Vin loved his cabin, loved being in the mountains and if the truth were told, he loved his job and the friends he'd found since agreeing to join Larabee's team, but if he could live his fantasy life, it would be as a rancher. Raising horses and cattle, away from the hustle and bustle of the city, enjoying the hard work and silence.

His thoughts drifted back over the past month. He had been the bodyguard slash go between on Ezra's last undercover assignment, stuck with the con man in a penthouse apartment, high over the crowded city, for three weeks. Three long weeks, suffering the whine and roar of too many vehicles constantly on the move to get nowhere fast.

Honking horns, screaming sirens, blaring music, and people everywhere. Vin Tanner's version of Hell.

He could tolerate the city in small doses, but he needed the freedom of the open spaces for his soul to breathe. Ezra, understanding the ex-bounty hunter, had given the man as much space as possible, knowing it wasn't the same and Tanner had a feeling the undercover agent had pressed harder than normal, forcing an end to the assignment so Vin could escape the rapidly encroaching city.

Here, at Chris' ranch he could catch his breath. Sit back and get his head screwed back on and his soul repaired. Here, with the wind and the sky, the stars and wild things, he found his salvation. He came here not running from, but to find that part of himself the modern world crushed under its hurried pace.

He brought his thoughts back to the present, and took a sip of his coffee. Coffee, strong bitter stand up by itself coffee, not that weak flavored stuff everyone else drank. He sighed with self-indulgent pleasure and closed his eyes as he lightly nudged the swing into a gentle swaying action, enjoying the oddly comforting squeak of the chains as he moved to and fro.

When the phone rang on the nearby table, he almost didn't answer, then thinking it might be Chris wanting to check on his animals, or one of the team needing his help, and knowing they, too, understood his need to be alone and wouldn't call just to chat, he picked up the cordless.

"Hello," a female voice sounded in his ear, not waiting for his response. "This is Lucy, Lucy Garth. I wanted to let you know Marty Wells has decided to sell that chestnut mare you were interested in and I told him I'd let you know...if you're still interested," she trailed off

"Might be," Vin drawled lazily, "iffen I was Chris."

There was total dead silence on the other end of the line and then a soft, "Oh, shit..."

Vin smiled to himself. "Lucy, ya still there?"

The voice was small. "Yes...." Then, "Vin, is that you?"

"Yep, how ya doin'?"

"Okay," her voice was hesitant. "I'm sorry. I'd promised Chris -- Mr. Larabee," she amended, "I'd check on that mare for him when I was out that way. You'll let him know?"

"Sure, unless ya wanna call back when he's home."

"Is he out of town?" There was a strange tone in her voice which did not escape Tanner's ear.

"Yep, Dallas 'til next Monday."

"Oh, okay. I'll get back with him then. Nice talking to you, Vin."

"Lucy? Is something wrong?" he questioned softly.

"Ah, no," she flustered, "no, nothing important. Bye."

The solid click sounded in his ear, and he sat for several long moments listening to the phone hum before he thoughtfully settled it back on the table. He'd seen Lucy's truck pass the corrals earlier, and had been somewhat disappointed when she hadn't stop to say hello.

Tanner smiled, knowing Chris had none too subtly attempted to throw the vet and the sharpshooter together. It was more than mere coincidence Larabee always needed help with something around the ranch on the day the pretty veterinarian was there to examine his stock. But the truth was, as much as he wanted to, Vin hadn't been able to work up the nerve to ask Lucy out. Tongue-tied and nervous, he found things to do in the general vicinity when Lucy was at the ranch, too shy and reserved to do more than watch her from a distance.

*******

Intense blue eyes studied the structure as Vin slowed his Land Rover to a stop. A single security light revealed a Wedgwood blue frame house with a wrap around porch. Hanging baskets of flowers, in full bloom, hung suspended from the porch rafters and two old wooden rockers gave the place a warm inviting quality.

Really unsure why he had made the hour's drive, Vin sat for a moment longer looking at the house. After hanging up the phone, he had finished his coffee, intending to turn in, but something in Lucy's voice kept coming back to him. A note of desperation, of helplessness, of being lost with no where to turn. He had tried to shake it aside. After all, he barely knew the young woman.

Yet, a short time later, climbing from his comfortable place on the swing, he found himself searching out the directions to her place from Chris' address book. Now, still unsure and a bit puzzled by his seemingly unexplainable actions, he hesitated. She'd probably think he was some kind of a nut, but Tanner had learned long ago not to ignore his instincts and right now, those instincts were screaming something was wrong and the young woman needed help.

Killing the engine, he vaulted from the open Land Rover before he had a chance to change his mind and with long strides, bound up the four steps and across the wooden porch deck, the sound of his boot heels loud in the stillness of the quiet country night. With a deep breath, he knocked on the old wooden framed screen door.

Several minutes passed, then a porch light blazed to life, temporarily blinding him. A few moments later, the door opened to reveal Lucy, dressed in a long terry robe, her hair wet, clutching a Louisville Slugger firmly in her hand.

A lopsided grin came to his face as he lazily drawled, "I believe the game was called," he waved his hand in the air, "because of...darkness."

Her eyes widened as she lowered her weapon of choice and stared at him in disbelief. "What...what are you doing here? Is something wrong with Chris' horses?" She stepped around him to start off the porch, but he gently grabbed her arm to stop her.

Startled, she pulled away with a small gasp, her cheeks flushing pink at her reaction.

"Animals're fine, Lucy, " he assured her.

She stopped to look up into his face, her eyes wide, her expression suddenly suspicious. "Then why are you here?" she demanded.

He chewed his lip as he looked away into the darkness. How could he tell her he really wasn't sure himself? His voice was soft as he admitted, "I was worried 'bout ya."

She pulled back, and laughed although the sound did not ring true to either of them. "Me?" she scoffed. "Why in the world would you be worried about me?"

Not saying a word, his blue eyes searched her face, waiting....

Lucy felt the wind rush from her lungs at that searching look. How could Tanner know? She had not said a word to anyone, yet here he was, concern written all over his handsome tanned face. Something about him -- something, somewhere deep in her core realized she knew this man. As silly as it sounded, uncertain why she believed such a thing, Lucy knew, somewhere in another life she had known, had trusted Vin Tanner. And with that sure and certain knowledge she knew she only had to trust him now.

But trust was not something she gave easily or readily. Not any longer. She had survived too many hurts, far too many injustices to freely open herself to a virtual stranger. But her inner voice of truth stubbornly pointed out, she had just admitted to herself he was not a stranger. Somewhere in a distant time, this man had held her heart and from the look flitting across his face, it was something they both knew.

Her face paled with that realization, and knowing she could tell this man anything, Lucy stepped back and sank into one of the old rockers, a war still raging within her. She wanted to tell him; wanted to open up to the concern she saw in those blue eyes. A part of her screamed for her to share the burden that had descended on her shoulders and let someone help carry the load.

Vin stood watching her, quietly waiting as she warred with herself.

She stared down at her hands twisted together in a knot in her lap and willed herself to loosen them. She wanted to tell him, wanted to tell anyone, but she knew the minute she did, everything she had worked so long and hard for would be lost. She had kept the secret for so long, guarding it closely, afraid to tell anyone. No, that wasn't exactly true. She had told Chris. At least a part of it, but Larabee was a law officer. So was Tanner, her inner voice pointed out. Yet somehow, it was harder with this man.

She looked up, again seeing solicitude, and surprisingly worry, in his azure eyes. She looked away, afraid she would drown in those blue depths. The vet had known Chris Larabee was gone. He had called to cancel an appointment to have one of the mares checked, and had explained he would be out of town for a few days and a friend would be tending his stock. If she wanted to keep the appointment she just needed to let Vin know and leave the bill, he'd pay it as soon as he got back. Lucy had called earlier, hoping the Texan would answer, hoping to hear his voice instead of Chris' machine, hoping that hearing his voice would somehow give her strength, reassure her everything would be all right, even if he didn't know that's what he was doing. She had never dreamed he would come knocking on her door.

"Lucy?" His voice was soft with concern.

She took a deep breath, not wanting to drag him into her problems, but she had no where else to turn. "I....I...th-think s-s-someone's stalking me," she admitted softly.

"Ya don't strike me as an hysterical female so I'm figurin' ya got good reasons for your suspicions." Tanner slouched against the wall near the door. "What's goin’ on?"

"I've been getting a lot of phone calls, only they don't say anything, and I've seen this car..... A beat up ol' Chevy at a couple of different places I've had appointments. Even here on the road to my house......"

Concern flooded over his features, but before he could speak, she rushed on, knowing she had to tell him everything. "I think it's Frank Blair."

Lines furrowed between his brows as he recognized the name, just as she had known he would. Anyone in law enforcement knew the name. Hell, anyone with a newspaper, radio or television had heard the name. "Why?"

She had to tell him; he had to know. Tears welled in her eyes, as she knew it would destroy everything she had tried to build, and would bring back everything she had tried all these years to escape. If she had ever wished for any kind of relationship between her and this handsome agent, this would put an end to those foolish dreams.

"B-B-Because," she stammered, "eight years ago, I was married to him." Lucy closed her eyes, not wanting to see the revulsion in those gentle blue eyes.

Feeling a light touch on her arm, her eyes flew open. Vin was standing over her, distress clearly visible on his face.

"You okay?" he questioned quietly.

Hadn't he heard what she said? She pulled away from his touch. "I was married to him, Vin," she repeated stubbornly, not expecting this kind of response from the Texan.

"Ain't deaf, Lucy. I heard ya."

She straightened, "And...?"

"And what?" He stooped down beside the rocker and looking up into her face, he reached out to take her hands; hands that had suddenly began twisting in knots again. "Ya said ya 'was married'...ya ain't no more?"

"I divorced him right after the trial."

"Why do ya think it's him?" he continued to question her softly, "He out?"

She shrugged. "Eight years with good behavior." That's what the angry prosecutor had told her the day of his sentencing. Lucy had counted each day just as if she'd been in jail serving the time with him, but fear had kept her from making the calls that would confirm her suspicions. She hadn't wanted to believe he would convince them to release him on his first appearance before the parole board. "I just know..."

Some sixth sense had told her that's exactly what had happened, just as it had told her in another life and time she had known this man. "I went back to using my maiden name; probably should have changed it all together. Finished getting my degree and moved as far as possible without leaving the country."

He stood, pulling her to her feet. "Go get dressed." Vin gave her a small gentle shove toward the door.

"What?" She frowned at him, shaking her head, not understanding.

"Get dressed, and pack a few things." He opened the screen door, waiting for her to enter.

She shook her head again. "What? Why? No.."

He gave her a small smile of patient tolerance. "Lucy, just do it. Ya ain't stayin' all the way out here yerself. Go on now, do what I say."

Still shaking her head, not understanding why she was so complacently obeying this virtual stranger, Lucy did as he asked.

*******

Fifteen minutes later, the blue vehicle was humming down the road, its headlights cutting through the black night. Vin pulled his gaze from the road to glance at the woman hunched in his passenger seat. Lucy had said little when she'd returned, dressed and carrying a daypack. He'd taken it from her, and ushered her outside. She'd locked the door while he pitched the pack in the back and then helped her into the battered old Land Rover. She'd said nothing, fastened her seat belt and huddled down in the seat as if trying to make herself small enough to disappear.

The night wind cut in the open Land Rover, tousling her hair about her face, but she had made no move to push it aside.

"You lived there long?" Vin's question broke the uncomfortable silence, which had settled, between them.

"What?" Lucy pulled herself up enough to look at him and brush a strand of hair from her eyes.

"Nice house. You lived there long?" He repeated, trying to get her to talk.

She nodded. "Was my folks' homestead. I grew up there. As far as I know Frank never knew bout this place."

"Where's your folks now?"

"Dead." Her voice was flat. "They were killed in a car accident when I was in college."

"Sorry." He had lost his own mother, his only family, as a small child. Damn, he was trying to draw her out, not drive her deeper into herself. He had never been one to pry in other people's business, but he hated to see her so withdrawn and silent. Vin suddenly found himself wishing for Ezra's ability to ask the right questions without appearing nosy. "Where was that?"

"Texas A&M."

"Good school."

She turned to look at him in the low glow of the dash lights. It was a safe topic. Non threatening and not too probing. A subject you could discuss with a total stranger at a party. "How about you? Where did you go?" she queried.

He shook his head, the wind mussing his long hair. "I didn't."

That seemed to get her attention and she turned slightly in the seat to study him. "Then how can you work for the ATF? I thought they only took college grads..." She trailed off, realizing it was none of her business.

Tanner gave her a small smile before turning his attention back to the road. He also hated talking about himself, but at least she was talking and looking at him. He remembered Chris had once explained that Lucy had seen the ATF equipment they used when working with that particular department in the back of his truck and Larabee had never corrected her assumption that was who they worked for. It was a good cover since their team, although sanctioned by the president, wasn't exactly known to the public and wasn't intended to be. "They waved it for me. Chris had a free rein with who he wanted on his team and they pulled some strings."

"So you were hand picked by Chris?"

"We all were." He nodded. "Some people weren't none too happy with his choices, probably thought he was nuts -- sometimes they're right -- but we all work well together. We get the job done and that's the main thing."

She could not help hearing a hint of pride in his voice. "What would you be doing if you weren't with the ATF?" she pried, suddenly overwhelmed with a burning curiosity about this man beside her.

He lifted his slight shoulders in a shrug. "Don't know. Still bounty huntin' most likely."

Her eyes widened. "You were a bounty hunter?" He smiled and nodded at her look of disbelief and fascination. He was used to the astonished looks. Hell, her's was mild compared to Larabee's when they'd first met. "What else have you been, Mister Tanner?"

"Juvenile delinquent, police officer, soldier, homeless....." he shrugged. "You name it, I've probably done it."

"Delinquent? I bet you broke your mother's heart."

A look of sadness flitted across his handsome features. "I reckon it did." He eased up and pulled into the long lane leading to Chris' ranch house. The headlights reflected off the board fences, and the barn as he eased by it. Killing the Land Rover's engine next to the big black Ram, he released his seat belt and vaulted from the vehicle, snagging her pack as he rounded the back and hurried to help her out.

Lucy pulled away from his helping hand and stood, ready to jump back in the Land Rover. "Vin..."

"'C'mon, Lucy," he gently, but firmly steered her up the steps and quickly unlocked the door. With a gentle hand to her back, he ushered her inside.

She froze just inside the door and swung around to face him, hugging her arms to her chest in a defensive gesture, which was not lost on him, and he took a step back to give her room, not wanting to press her. Tanner understood the need for space, especially when dealing with someone as frightened as Lucy. "Vin...I-I d-don't think I should be here..."

He stared down at her, seeing the shudders which shook her body. "Ya sure don't belong out there all alone. Not tonight, anyway." He motioned toward the closed door to the right. "Ya can sleep in Chris' room." So saying, Tanner stepped around her and pushed open the door, placing her bag on the floor just inside.

Her gray eyes roamed the living area. "Where...where will you sleep?" Lucy questioned in a small, almost scared voice, as she nervously wondered what she was doing here with this stranger. Other than her feelings, she knew next to nothing about the man who stood several feet from her, staring at her with soft blue eyes. He could have been a rapist, mass murderer....... or an angel.....

Vin nodded toward the door off to the opposite side. "Spare room, or the couch. Depends on where I happen to fall asleep." A small wink accompanied the smile. "My line a work, I learned to sleep anywhere."

An expression of astonishment settled on his good looking features as he realized what she'd been thinking when he saw her momentarily close her eyes, releasing a tiny sigh of relief. His voice was incredulous as he questioned, "Ya think I brought ya here to...?" What had he done to give the woman that impression? Did he really come across as the type to force himself on an unwilling woman? He shook his head, not finishing as he actually blushed. "How could ya think that, Lucy?"

She flushed bright red with embarrassment. "I-I..."

A ghost of a smile flickered over his face. "My fault. Guess maybe I shoulda explained. Just brought ya here to keep ya safe. No other reasons, 'cept maybe ta let ya get a good night's sleep. Now, why don't ya see about gettin' some rest?" He could tell she was dead on her feet and wondered how long it had been since the woman had truly slept through the night. "Don't worry, ain't nobody gonna bother ya tonight."

The petite vet nodded and slowly moved to the bedroom door. Turning, she studied him, a feeling of trust she hadn't felt in years building in her. "Thanks, Vin."

The sharpshooter flashed her a smile as he settled on the couch and began removing his boots. With a last look at him, she continued on into the bedroom and closed the door.

The overhead ceiling fan and light lit a queen-sized bed, with a homemade aspen wood headboard. A dresser, mirrored bureau, blanket chest and two nightstands occupied the large room.

As Lucy's eyes roamed over the area she could see it was a man's abode. There was no signs of femininity other than the old hand stitched log cabin quilt which covered the bed. A small framed picture of a beautiful woman, laughing with delight and holding a smiling tow-headed little boy with dark eyes, sat on one of the nightstands.

She sat down on the blanket chest and removed her shoes. Debating, Lucy stretched out on the quilt without undressing and knowing Vin was in the other room, just steps away if she called, she closed her eyes and slept without the nightmare of running for her life for the first time in weeks.

*******

Lucy awoke to the smell of coffee. Opening her eyes, she was momentarily disoriented by the strangeness of her surroundings, then the previous evening's events swirled through her mind. She sighed, stretched and smiled as she realized sometime during the night, Vin had covered her with a blanket. She rolled from the bed and in short order, had freshened and changed and quietly slipped from the bedroom to the living area. Lucy stopped, her gaze jumping to the still sleeping figure on the couch.

Vin was sprawled belly down on the over stuffed sofa, one long denim clad leg pressed into the back cushions, the other hanging off the edge. His face was turned toward her, his long hair tousled, clinging to the short hairs of his scruffy cheek. She smiled to herself. He looked like a little lost boy.... Lucy mentally shook herself. He was definitely no little boy! Worse, she was in no position to be having fantasies of a life with this gentle man.

Hearing the sound of gurgling, she spied the coffee maker doing its thing on the kitchen counter. He had obviously set the timer and it was automatically filling the pot. The aroma drew her closer and quietly searching the cabinets, she located a cup and poured it full. Leaning back against the counter, she took a swallow, gagged, coughed and spewed the overly strong bitterness into the sink.

At the unexpected noise, Vin came up off the couch, his blue eyes wide. He spun and relaxed when he saw her, glad he hadn't pulled his gun from under the cushions. Having a weapon pointed at you first thing in the morning wasn't exactly the best way to begin the day. Scrubbing a hand through his long hair, pushing it back from his face, he sleepily eyed her. "Mornin'."

She was still choking on the strong coffee and finally found her voice. "This is awful!"

With a lopsided grin, he pushed to his feet and padded barefoot to the cabinet, pulled down a cup and filled it. With a satisfied sigh, Vin gulped the liquid.

She stared at him in disbelief. "You drink this...this...mud?"

"I like my coffee strong," he offered in explanation, shrugging. Just as with his old occupation, Tanner was used to other people's reactions to his coffee. He wasn't even allowed to make coffee at the office, his friends swearing he was trying to poison them.

"Strong enough to stand by itself and hunt bear." Lucy murmured as she moved to the sink and ran hot water to dilute her cupful, just as Buck Wilmington had that first time, in this very same kitchen.

Vin rummaged in a cabinet and withdrew a box of donuts. Motioning her to one of the kitchen chairs, he sprawled into one and nudged the box across the table in her direction as she sat down opposite him. "Breakfast?"

She fished out a glazed and nibbled on it as he pulled out a lemon filled and dunked it in his coffee. Lucy tried but couldn't keep from making a face of disgust. Lemon filling and coffee. No, not coffee -- mud.

"Is this your normal breakfast?"

"I like donuts." The simple answer was followed by a grin and she couldn't help returning the smile, thinking again how much he suddenly resembled a little boy as he used the back of his hand to swipe away a drop of coffee that dribbled down his chin.

Tanner polished off four of the donuts, then downed the rest of his coffee and stood, moving to pull on his boots. "Gonna go feed," he explained as he headed out the door.

Lucy stared after him, shaking her head. Gathering her coffee cup, she stood and wandered about the house, taking the time to really see it.

The comfortable living room was paneled in pine, with bare beams overhead, giving it a rustic look. A fieldstone fireplace graced the outermost wall. The furniture was western design, with adobe, blue and rust blankets tossed casually over the backs of the couch and chairs. Several issues of Western Horseman magazine graced the pine coffee table. One wall contained an entertainment center, TV, VCR, CD player. A large collection of tapes and CDs filled the side shelves and looking closer she saw Chris was into old westerns and sporting events and his musical taste were very eclectic.

As she looked around, she realized other than several photographs on the shelves of the entertainment center there were no pictures on the walls, other than an outstanding painting of a mare and foal above the fireplace mantel. Lucy had heard from neighbors that Larabee was a widow and assumed the few pictures of the pretty woman and small child that graced the room were his family. Frowning, she moved to glance at the framed photo on the computer desk, and was surprised to see it was of Chris, Vin and five other men.....

She picked up the picture and studied it. Larabee had a wide smile, as did Vin. The other men were laughing as well as they crowded around the two in the foreground, arms slung casually over each other's shoulders and one was flashing a victory sign at the camera. She was so intent in studying the picture she was not aware Vin had returned until he spoke next to her.

"That was our first big bust," he explained.

"This Chris' hand-picked team?" she queried, studying each man's face. They were indeed a motley looking crew in her opinion.

"Yep, that's the Seven." Pride filled his voice. He was proud of these men he called friends. Men he'd adopted as family.

She laughed softly. "You make it sound like you're the meanest men this side of hell."

"Maybe we are," he admitted. "At least I hope the bad element thinks we are. Makes our job easier iffen they're scared a us."

Lucy returned the photo to its place on the desk and turning to fully face the lanky man, abruptly changed the subject. "Are you going to take me home?"

Vin chewed his lower lip, and stared at the floor, slowly shaking his head. "I don't think that's too wise, Lucy."

She arched her eyebrows at him. "Oh, why?"

"Let me do a little checkin' 'round. Ya can stay here while I do. Iffen I don't find nothin', I'll happily take ya home." Sensing her protest, he rushed on. "Whether or not it's your ex, ya think someone is stalking ya. And from what ya told me, ya got good reason to. No matter what we find out, at least you'll have some answers."

She shook her head, noticing his Texas drawl became more pronounced when he was nervous. "You would do this for me? Why?"

"It's my job. 'Sides, I wanna help....." He gave her a small grin. "Just wanna make sure the best vet in the valley stays in the valley." Vin offered softly. "'Sides, Chris'd shoot me his own self if something happened ta ya. Trust me, ya jist don't wanna piss off Larabee"

Lucy let a small smile break across her face. "Well, since I'd be saving your life, I guess it wouldn't hurt just this one day."

"Ya got calls or appointments today?" Tanner was fully prepared to accompany the vet anywhere she needed to go.

She shook her head. "I pretty well cleared out this week. I-I thought I might be-be leaving in a hurry," Lucy finished off lamely.

He nodded in understanding. "Let me get cleaned up and we'll see what we can come up with." He moved for the spare bathroom, leaving her alone in the living room.

*******

A short time later, Lucy looked up from the article she was skimming to see Vin entering the living room, his long hair still damp from the shower, dressed in a tee shirt and jeans. Sitting down to pull on his boots, he looked at her. "I'm gonna call the office, see what we can find out. JD should be able to track down if Blair was released and when," Tanner explained, knowing how important it was for Lucy to know what was happening, certain it would help to put her at ease.

She laid aside the magazine. "And?"

"We'll take it from there. First, we need to find out what's goin' on." He shrugged, reached for the phone and punching speed dial. Waiting for it to connect, he wandered into the kitchen and poured himself another cup of coffee.

Lucy watched him silently as he hitched his hip against the counter, and not wanting to intrude on the conversation, she let her gaze jump to the framed photo on the desk, wondering which of the five was JD. She wandered over and picked up the photo, studying it intently, seeing things she had missed with her first glance.

The men were all wearing Kelvar vests. Vin and Chris' hung open and looking close, she could see the white of what appeared to be bandages showing under the edge of Chris' shirt collar. Looking closer, she saw Vin was holding a lever action carbine with a scope. She tore her gaze from the image in the photo to look at the man still talking on the phone. It hit her he and his friends were in a very dangerous line of work, and that sudden realization bothered her for some reason.

It was reputed that men in dangerous occupations were themselves dangerous men and one thing she definitely didn't need was another dangerous man in her life. Another quick glance at the man in the kitchen erased the troubled thought. This man wasn't the type you could stamp with a label and shove into some set category. This quiet man was special and somehow she knew that made the other men in the photo special as well.

Looking closer at the photo, she could see stacks of guns in the extreme foreground, but the photographer had focused on the seven men, not the confiscated weapons.

Her gray eyes focused intently on the photo studying those men behind Vin and Chris. A smiling young man with charming dimples and chestnut hair stood slightly behind Vin, his hand lightly resting on the Texan's shoulder. Next to him was a dark haired young man who didn't look old enough to be outta high school, let alone in law enforcement. To his left was a mustached man who flashed a wide smile as well as the victory sign. A slender black man stood beside him and next to him, a huge bear of a man with graying hair.

Her gray-eyed gaze settled on the two men in the foreground, the two men the others backed. Abstractly, she noted they complimented each other, one dark, one fair. There was something in their body language, something in their features, which clearly stated they were friends and partners and a combined force to be reckoned with.

"Lucy?"

She looked up, her expression guilty as she quickly replaced the photo.

Vin was frowning, his expression puzzled by her intense perusal of the photo and his searching gaze moved to her face, looking for some kind of answer there. Failing to find one, he was surprised to find she was damn near as good at hiding her thoughts as Ezra, he spoke softly, "JD said he'd call as soon as he finds anything."

"JD?" She motioned toward the photo. "Which one is he?"

"The dark haired one in the middle."

Her eyebrows arched in surprise. Her life could be hanging in the hands of a man who didn't look old enough to even be shaving.

Vin must have read her thoughts. "JD's an expert with computers. If it's out there anywhere, he'll dig it up."

There was a firm conviction in his voice that inspired confidence and she realized the young man had to be good to be a part of Larabee's handpicked few. Lucy nodded. "Who are the others?"

Vin picked up the photo, pointing to each likeness. "Ya know Chris. That's Ezra. He does undercover and he's very good at it. He comes across cocky and arrogant, but that's just a front. We just don't tell him we know that. He's probably just as shy as you."

"Or you?" She countered with a small smile.

Vin chose to ignore the comment, drawing her attention back to the picture. "But don't ever play cards with him unless it's just for fun. He'll end up ownin' your house. That's JD. He looks young -- hell, he is young -- and kinda naive, but he's a good man in the field and like I said, there's nothin' he can't find out with a computer. Buck, there, he's a real lady's man, but you won't find a better man to back your play. He's a great big kid at heart, but he'll mother hen ya ta death iffen ya let him. He's kinda become JD's big brother and mentor. Nate, there, is our chemist and team doctor. I don't think anybody really knows what made him give up his medical practice ta be part a our team, but we're all sure glad he did. That there's Josiah. He's our philosophical missionary's son. He's traveled all over the world. Him and Ezra have some real interestin' discussions although I gotta admit, I don't understand most a what they're sayin'. Told us he used to be a priest, but thought he could help people more in law enforcement. He's solid and dependable and always ready ta help. They're all good men. I'd trust 'em with my life."

"And they trust you with theirs," she added softly. 'Just as I do,' she added mentally.

"I know ya do."

Her face blanched at his soft words. Had she actually spoken aloud?

Vin carefully returned the photo to its place on the desk. "I reckon I sense it, too, Lucy."

She felt as if she was falling, caught in a vortex as she forced the words, "What do you mean?" Lucy held her breath as he seemed to search for the right terms for what he wanted to say.

He scrubbed his hand through his long hair and his brow furrowed. "Like..like I know'd ya somehow, somewhere else." He shook his head. "I know I ain't met ya before Chris', but this feelin'....." He brought his eyes up to stare intently at her face. "It's like.... " He shook his head, not finishing, not knowing how to describe what he felt each time he looked at her.

"Like we were friends somewhere else in time?" she whispered, then bit her tongue. Good goin', Lucy! Make him think the stress is making you crazy. She didn't need him thinking she was some kind of nut case.

Instead, he slowly nodded, then gave her a madly familiar endearing lopsided grin. "Crazy, huh?"

"I don't know...." She had never been mystic or believed in psychic things, but she was open minded enough to know some things could not be defined.

"Maybe we're reincarnated...knew each other as birds or something," he teased, breaking the tense mood. "That was one of the conversations Ez and Josiah had during this stakeout we were on....." Tanner trailed off for a moment, a flash of another conversation flitting through his mind. Something Ezra had said to him about reincarnation and a white Buffalo. He shook his head. That was ridiculous, Vin hadn't taken part in the discussion between the con man and ex-priest.

She laughed. "Perhaps we were." She motioned to the picture again, changing the subject. "I never really thought about how dangerous working for the ATF was." She shrugged. "You only hear about them in regards to incidents like Waco and Ruby Ridge, but the rest of the time --"

"Yeah, media has a habit of exploitin' the bad stuff. They seem to conveniently forget all the good things. Guess it's the same thing with any law agency. It's like iffen ya work for the law, or even in any public office, yer s'posed ta be perfect. They forget yer human and make mistakes." An embarrassed smile flitted across his lips and he quickly changed the subject again. "Might as well get some work done in the barn 'til JD calls. Wanna wait here or ya could come along and keep me company."

Lucy hid her amusement as his cheeks flushed pink. Handing him the cell phone laying on the coffee table, they headed for the barn.

Vin refused her assistance and she settled on several hay bales stacked in the neat airy aisle way. Turning the horses out, with wheelbarrow and fork, he attacked the stalls.

Lucy moved around to where she could observe him. He worked quickly and efficiently, with no unnecessary or wasted movement and her gray-eyed gaze lingered on his body, watching the rhythmic movements of his muscles beneath his T-shirt. Sweat soaked in the heat, it clung to his muscular form and she couldn't help smiling to herself.

A barn cat came up and rubbed against her legs, distracting her and she bent to rub its ears. It pawed at her hand and began purring and she gathered it into her lap, gently stroking the long fur. When she finally looked up, Vin had finished and had wheeled the barrow to the compost pile. She gently lowered the cat to the floor and followed, watching as he finished and crossed to a water trough.

As if forgetting her presence, he removed the tee shirt, and with a deep sigh, plunged his sweat soaked head into the water, then pulled back, the water running down his face. He sluiced it aside and shook the wetness from his hair, the water drops sparkling as they went flying in the sunlight.

He turned and saw her watching and a small frown raced across his face as he quickly pulled back on the shirt, but not before she saw the half-healed knife scars marring his upper body.

Stunned, unable to suppress the tiny exclamation, which escaped her lips, her eyes grew large, locking with his blue ones. He flustered, "Shoulda done this work afore I took my shower."

"Vin? How...how'd those happen?" She questioned, as she stepped closer and gently touched a long ragged scar visible through the shirt.

He compressed his lips into a tight line and his eyes went dark. "Last case we's on," he offered in a clipped tone, indicating the subject was closed, not wanting to explain to her how he had been recognized as an agent, worked over and left for dead by a sleazy knife wielding bastard who took great pride in his abilities with a blade.

The cell phone's pulsing ring startled them both and Vin moved to pick it up. Lucy stepped away, not wanting to intrude on the call, knowing if it pertained to her, he would tell her.

She froze, shaking her head. How did she know that? She crossed her arms over her chest, and suppressed a sudden chill in the warm sunlight.

"Lucy?"

She turned, swallowing hard and focused on Vin as he approached her, juggling the phone in his hand. "JD got the DOC records. Blair was released nineteen days ago. He reported to his parole officer the following day and hasn't been seen since."

Her eyes widened in fear. "It is him," she breathed, her heart racing.

Vin nodded. "Could be. I'd say more than likely --"

"It's him, Vin! I know it is!" Her voice raised hysterically. "I know!"

He laid a gentle hand on her shoulder, hoping to calm the tremors wracking her body. "Calm down, Lucy. He won't find you here," he promised.

She shook her head, shrugging off his hand. "Don't you understand, Vin? It's what he does! He finds people and then he kills them! If some sorry ass judge hadn't fucked up, he would be on death row for what he did!"

"I know, Lucy," he offered softly. Everyone knew the story of Blair. How he was the only suspect in a string of killings, but while the DA had searched for the hard evidence needed to guarantee a conviction, some judge, up for reelection and showing his support for his liberal minded supporters, had allowed the man to plea bargain down to conspiracy to commit murder and had given the minimum sentence.

Only when he was locked behind bars did she have the nerve to even think about legally separating herself from the man. Frank had warned her what he'd do to her if she went through with the divorce. He had left nothing to the imagination. He firmly believed Lucy belonged to him and the only punishment worthy of her betrayal would be death. Nothing and no one would prevent him from carrying out that punishment.

Remembering his wild eyed, low voiced threats as if they had been spoken yesterday, she clutched her arms tighter to her chest. "He'll find me, Vin, and he'll kill me and he'll kill you if you get in the way. I know him, Vin!! He's killed before and he'll kill again! He promised he'd kill me and if there was one thing Frank Blair always did, it was keep his promises."

'Except his promises to stop hurting me...' her inner voice reminded.

A cold smile danced on Vin's lips. "Not if I have anything to say about it..." he murmured. He took in the young woman's terrified expression and saw her shiver with suppressed fear. No man had the right to terrorize a woman like that. He took a step towards her, lightly placing his hand on her arm, his movements carefully designed to reassure rather than cause more fear. "I keep my promises, too. It'll be all right, Lucy. Let me take care of it."

She looked up into his face, seeing the earnest expression and the care in his gentle blue eyes. The woman closed her eyes, strengthening her resolve, but needing him to understand. She let out a small hitching breath. "You don't understand, Vin. I don't...I don't want you hurt..."

Vin gently tilted her face up until she opened her eyes and he gave her a small grin. "And I don't want you hurt either.... so why don't we just catch this crazy bastard so we can get on with our lives?"

Her mouth fell open at his words, wonder filling her face as she realized this man would do whatever was in his power to help her. She had never expected that...had not even dared hope.

"I've already got JD working on his whereabouts. And knowin' the others -- and I do -- they're contactin' anybody who might have any information. We'll find him." He steered her towards the house. "C'mon, I could use something cold to drink, not ta mention another shower."

She silently walked beside him back inside and moved into the living room as he kicked off his boots and pulled a cold beer from the fridge.

She shook her head at his offer as she paced by the desk. This was more than she was prepared to handle. The memories were as fresh as yesterday of Frank, going into explicate and lengthy detail, describing what he would do to her. Lucy finally spun to look at Vin as he sank down on the sofa. "I-I-I want you to take me home, Vin," she blurted out in a rush.

He lowered the bottle from his lips, shaking his head. "No."

Indignation rose up in her at the simple answer and she stormed across the room to stand in front of him. "You have no right to keep me here, Vin Tanner!"

Tanner shook his head again, studying her intently. "No, Lucy, I don't, no more than ya got the right ta go off alone and get yerself killed."

His words stung her. How long had it been since someone had cared what happened to her? How long had it been since she had let someone care? "Why....why does it matter to you what happens to me?" she whispered, subdued by his words.

He chewed on his lower lip, then raised his eyes to look her in the face. "I don't know," he answered honestly. "I just...do." he admitted, puzzled by his unexplainable reactions to this young woman. He rubbed his hand across his brow, "It just feels right somehow, lookin' out fer ya." His drawl was back in full force and he dropped his gaze to the bottle in his hand. "Ain't ya ever done nothin' without knowin' why ya done it, but ya know'd it was right and honest?"

She slowly nodded. Lucy had done that very thing the previous evening when she'd climbed into his Land Rover.

"Then, jist let me help ya, Lucy.... Please?" he whispered, his eyes soft with concern. A small smile graced his handsome features and a mischievous twinkle lit the cobalt eyes. "Ya know, I could jist take ya into protective custody and have your little rear end tossed in jail," he half joked.

She closed her eyes and swallowed hard. There was no way she could resist the pleading or the teasing glint she saw in those azure depths and with a start, Lucy realized she didn't want to. She drew in a deep breath, and looking into those blue depths, she softly whispered, "Help me, Vin."

Later, after numerous phone calls and conversations, Vin had discovered all he could about Blair's movements upon his release from prison. The news wasn't encouraging. The day after meeting with his parole officer, the man had stolen a vehicle, which had been found abandoned a week later within twenty miles of Four Corners. There had been no sightings of the man after that and his whereabouts were unknown, although all branches of law enforcement had their eyes open and an APB had been issued. He may be on the run, but the knowledge Frank Blair was no where to be found didn't ease Lucy's mind in the least.

With their pending cases resolved, paperwork completed and waiting on Chris' desk, the other five men volunteered their assistance. This was supposed to be their down time. A few days of relaxation, but it had become apparent Vin needed their help.

Other than having JD do some checking on the computer, Tanner had asked for nothing, but he didn't have to. All they needed to know was that he needed help. Nathan and Josiah headed out to where the abandoned vehicle had been located, hoping to find something the other officers had missed, while Buck and Ezra opted to canvass the area. JD continued to search on the computer for some little tidbit to assist in locating the ex-con.

Vin had listened on the phone as Buck informed him of their plans, a bit overwhelmed by their attempts to help him and Lucy, whom none of them knew other than as a word or two in passing from Chris, remarking about the vet stopping by. It was simply enough a friend of his and Vin's was in trouble. With the others searching, covering all the bases and angles Vin would have checked, it left him free to remain with Lucy. To be there for her protection, in case Blair was in the area.

Upon hearing of the other men's attempts to find Blair, Lucy's eyes had welled and she had fled into the bedroom.

Vin had given her time, then softly knocked on the door. "Lucy? Lucy, you okay?" he questioned, solicitude softening his husky voice. Tanner could hear her sniffling and a muffled "Go 'way," sounded through the closed door.

He sighed heavily and shook his head. "Can't do that, Lucy. Wanna tell me what's wrong?"

The door was suddenly thrown open, revealing the teary-eyed woman. "Go away!"

The steel in her voice didn't deter him at all. Vin knew the anger was brought on by the fear. Anyone in her place would probably have bolted for parts unknown the second he told them Blair was on the loose.

He stood, his eyes on the worn old wooden floor. "Not while yer like this I won't. Tell me.... Did I do something wrong?" Worry and penance filled his face. "I'm sorry iffen I did."

The vet sniffled and shook her head. "No," she whispered, "you didn't."

He reached out and lightly cupped her cheek, his thumb smudging a tear slowly making its way down her face. "What's caused this then?"

Unable to help herself, Lucy leaned into his gentle touch, her breath hitching as she tried not to burst into tears again. Swallowing hard, she choked out, "I-I-I- n-never h-h-had..." she stammered," any-anybody w-w-w-ant t-to he-help m-m-me be-before."

Comprehension dawned and his expression softened further, "Is that all?" he teased.

She drew back and stared up into his face, her expression serious. "Don't mock me, Vin Tanner."

He reached out to touch her tear stained cheek again. "I'd never do that, Lucy. Just thought I'd done somethin' wrong ta upset ya. Thought maybe you's mad I told the others--"

"I just can't believe they want to help me!" She looked at him intently, "I can't believe you want to. You all gotta have other more important things to do."

He lightly grasped her chin and tilted her face up until her tear bright eyes met his. "Ain't nothin' more important than a friend in need, Lucy."

"But you don't know me that well and your friends don't know me at all," she pointed out, stubbornly. None of this made sense to the woman. People didn't go out of their way for someone they didn't know. Even when Frank had been indicted, the police only offered her help in exchange for evidence against the man who was then her husband. They hadn't believed she knew nothing of Blair's business. Most of the investigators had even suggested she might have had a part in his activities.

"I know enough, Lucy."

And staring into his somber face, she realized for this man that was all it took for him to help. On some level, deep inside him, he felt just as she had that bonding which denied explanation. Somewhere in time, she had helped this man and he was repaying that long dead debt of honor.

*******

It was late that evening when JD called again. The youngster was fairly bouncing with excitement and Tanner couldn't help but smile as he pictured the energetic youth squirming with glee. He had stumbled on some prison records making note of Blair phoning and corresponding with a woman on the outside. He had the name and was digging on the computer for the address, which Buck and Ezra promised to visit the following morning. JD was certain if the woman knew of Blair's whereabouts, his two teammates would have that information before returning to the office.

Vin thanked him, ordering him to get some rest before he hung up the phone. He stared at the floor for a few long moments, uncertain if he should tell Lucy of this latest development. After all, they really didn't know much more than they had that morning. But the woman needed to trust him and she couldn't do that if she felt he was hiding things, so he moved outside to find her on the porch.

Lucy was sitting in the old swing, its gentle swaying causing the rusty chains to squeak slightly in tune to the chirping of the crickets beyond the porch. Although her expression was contemplative, the woman seemed more relaxed than he'd seen her in the last twenty-four hours.

Looking up as he quietly settled in one of the old rockers, she straightened, easily reading in his expression something had happened, "What?"

Relishing the cool breeze, Vin drew in a deep breath. He hated destroying this moment. No matter how she reacted to J.D.'s latest bulletin, this relaxed moment in time would be gone forever. The questioning in her gray eyes burned into him. "JD just called. Thinks he may have found a good lead on Blair. Buck and Ezra are gonna follow up on it in the mornin'." Like the youngest member of their team, Tanner had no doubt concerning his friends' ability to glean any knowledge the woman might have concerning her prison pen pal.

She stiffened, "What kind of lead?"

"Seems Blair made frequent contact with someone on the outside. JD tracked her down on the computer. Told ya the kid could find out anything with that contraption."

Her voice was small, "'Her'?"

Vin nodded silently, momentarily wondering if it was possible the pretty vet still had feelings for her ex-husband. It wouldn't be uncommon. They had shared a life.

"Hope to hell, she knows what she's getting into. Wish I had." She shook her head, forcing a small grimace. "Nice to know he didn't waste any time getting over me."

Vin gave her a searching look and his voice was low. "Man was a fool."

Lucy's eyes widened and she stared at him in surprise. "What do you mean by that?"

He shrugged, staring off into the darkness. "On top of being an insane murderer, the man was an idiot."

She frowned. "Why? Because he got caught?"

"No," his voice was a whisper, "'cause he hurt you."

Again, her eyes widened in surprise and she pushed to her feet, moving across the porch. She stopped on the top step leading down into the yard. Lucy's first inclination had been to slam the door in Tanner's face and run. Her life was complicated enough without romantic entanglements. Even if she wanted to develop a relationship with the handsome Texan -- and in all honesty she really did want to -- Lucy felt she didn't have the right to pull him any further into the screwed up mess she called a life. Not now. She tilted her head back, and closed her eyes, blowing out a deep breath. "Don't, Vin."

She heard him gain his feet behind her, but she did not look around as he softly questioned. "Don't what?"

Lucy felt him move up behind her, could sense his hands reaching out towards her, but she scrambled down the wooden steps to the yard, putting distance between them both.

"Lucy -- "

Her look froze him on the step as she clutched her arms tightly across her chest, her hair blowing wildly about her face in the night breeze. She shook her head. "I-I-I can't handle this right now, Vin, okay? Just-just.....go away."

Tanner tilted his head to one side, a wounded expression flickering across his face, then with a slow nod of understanding and acceptance, he turned and went inside, leaving her standing in the yard.

She dropped to her knees in the dew wet grass as her tears began to fall, knowing now it was only a matter of time before Blair found her -- and if he found her, he found Vin. She'd done what she thought was necessary to protect the caring young man who had asked nothing more than to be allowed to help her.

*******

The sun was barely up as Vin quietly moved about the kitchen, pouring himself a cup of coffee. He'd drink his morning dose of caffeine and get some chores done before waking Lucy. She could use the rest since she still hadn't come inside when he'd finally fallen asleep on the couch. Actually it surprised him she hadn't given in to the stress and mental fatigue long ago, obviously having dealt with the fear of Blair's release for quite awhile now. Maybe he would leave the chores long enough to fix her a hot breakfast. In his sock feet, he padded across the hardwood floor and pushing open the screen door, he stepped out onto the porch, and froze.

There, curled on the swing was Lucy, still asleep. From all indications she had been there all night. He hesitated, then turned to go back inside, when he heard her question, "Coffee ready?"

He looked at her, seeing the red rimmed eyes and dried tear streaks on her face. Obviously she had had a rough night and he chastised himself for allowing her to push him away when she had so clearly needed someone. He should have stayed with her, even if he had just been a shoulder to cry on. He nodded. "Yep, I'll get you a cup." He moved back inside and diluting the strong brew, carried the cup back out to her.

She had straightened on the swing and brushed the hair from her eyes. Lucy accepted the cup with a somber 'thanks' and sipped at it, her eyes on the mountains in the distance.

"You doin' okay?" he questioned softly,

She shrugged, "Guess that depends on your definition of okay." Lucy set the cup aside and met his worried gaze. "It was a mistake, involving you. I want you to take me home, and then I want you to get the hell away from me." Her tone was firm, her decision made and she was ready to do battle.

He studied his own cup intently. "I can't do that, Lucy."

"Can't, or won't?"

"There's no need. JD called a few minutes ago. Buck and Ezra didn't wait till this mornin'. They went ta see Blair's pen pal last night. She saw Blair, gave him money and he took her car, said he was going to Mexico. They checked her story. Police down in New Mexico found the car. Blair's outta Colorado, Lucy...."

She wanted to believe. With all her heart, she wanted to believe it was true....

"Ya hear me, Lucy? He's gone. They're searching for him in New Mexico." Tanner didn't tell her that he had agreed with Buck and Ezra's assumption that finding the abandoned car didn't necessarily mean Blair himself was out of the state. Ezra was an expert at misdirection and had needlessly pointed out that it may have simply been a ploy, nothing more than a false trail to mislead the authorities. It would have been simple and smart to abandon the car and hitch a ride in a direction different from the one the police were focused on.

"I heard you, Vin," Her voice was quiet as she stared out across the yard, "but I won't believe it until they find him. He's sneaky. You can't believe what he says.... You can't. I know."

He had hoped the news would ease her mind, but if anything she seemed more distraught. It hadn't been his intention to upset her further. "The guys are gonna stay on it, keep me informed. But for now, ya can relax a little bit. They're still checkin’ on the phone calls. JD put a tap on yer line, and they're runnin' down that car ya seen followin' ya."

"I appreciate it, Vin, but --"

"I know it's hard....." He blew out a deep breath. "Look, Chris runs stock up there on the national park land." He pointed to the towering mountains in the distance. "I promised I'd take mineral blocks up for the cattle. It's a two, three-day trip, on horseback. Why don't ya ride up with me, get away from here for a while? Get your mind off all this." He hesitated, then added softly, "Might be nice. And I sure wouldn't mind the company."

Lucy vacillated. How long had it been since she had done something nice? Something just for herself? Some pleasant activity that didn't involve work, but relaxing and being carefree. How long since she had forgotten about Blair and actually enjoyed life? Lately, she had been holed up at home alone, worried, and terrified.

She studied the lanky man waiting for her answer. He and his friends would protect her. Vin wouldn't let anything happen to her. She knew that with all her heart, but her mind kept screaming of the danger.... But, she somehow knew this man who, until her phone call had barely spoken two words to her, would keep his promise to protect her. Well aware of the person she feared, knowing the viciousness her ex-husband was capable of, he had volunteered to keep her safe. She closed her eyes. Just once she had to believe and follow her heart.... "I'll go, Vin."

His smile was dazzling as he nodded and stood. "Great! I'll gather up some supplies and get the horses ready." He looked down at her. "You sure?" She nodded, returning his smile. "You'll wanna pack a few things then. There's saddlebags hangin' on the back porch." He gulped the last of his coffee as he headed inside. "I'll let Buck know we're goin'."

Lucy sat on the swing and pushed her hair out of her eyes. Her gaze drifted to the distant mountains. It had been a long time since she had gotten out and ridden just for the fun of it. Climbing to her feet, she headed inside, mentally gathering the items she needed to pack. A small thrill raced through her. Three days. Three days alone with the man who'd haunted her dreams; wonderful happy dreams which had managed to push aside the terrifying nightmares of Frank Blair.

*******

It was a little before ten a.m. when they finally headed out. Tanner had hoped for an earlier start, but even with Lucy's help, it had taken longer than expected to finish the necessary work and pack the needed supplies. Knowing they could fend for themselves until his return, Vin had turned the other saddle stock out to graze in the largest pasture, after quickly checking the fence line.

Choosing one of the Quarter Horse geldings for himself, he had saddled Chris' favorite mare for Lucy, a gentle creature with a smooth gait. A steady old mule Chris had rescued from an abusive owner carried their camping gear and supplies as well as having the salt blocks diamond hitched to the packsaddle. Tanner smiled in amusement when the stubborn animal didn't make his obligatory nip at the vet as she ran a gentle hand over his muzzle.

"What's his name?"

"I don't think he's got one. There was a bit of a disagreement over the perfect name for him." The team had been at the ranch for a barbecue when the mule had been delivered, refusing to step any further than the barn door. Tanner laughed, remembering how Chris had joked the only name fitting the stubborn animal was 'Standish.' Of course, Ezra considered 'Larabee' a much more befitting moniker for the hardheaded creature, and the others decided the wisest choice was to keep their opinions to themselves.

Lucy felt her troubles begin to melt away the moment she settled in the little dun's saddle. And as the animal lined out towards the mountain, Vin riding beside her, she felt an ease she hadn't known in months.

Vin, leading the mule, glanced over at Lucy as she rode next to him, getting a feel for the horse she was astride. She seemed comfortable with the animal and in the saddle, and he relaxed a little, certain he'd made the right decision, inviting her along. He knew from experience, nature had a way of melting away stress and letting healing begin.

She felt his eyes and turned to smile at him. Then, her eyes sparkling, she touched heels to the little mare and broke into a canter. Vin heard her laughter as he reined the gelding and stubborn mule to follow.

His gaze stayed on her as she slowed the horse to a lope and turned back towards him. The black flat crowned hat she had borrowed from Chris' hat rack had flipped back and was hanging down her back by its stampede strings, freeing her long hair which whipped about her face in the breeze

When she drew rein and fell in beside him, her face was flushed and a smile was dancing across her lips. She appeared breathless as she flashed that hauntingly familiar smile at him. "Oh, my, I've not ridden like this in ...a long time," she blurted out. "I'd forgotten how much I enjoy it and I love this little mare." She patted the dun's neck. "Does she have a name?"

"Name's bigger than she is. Chris just calls her Daisy." Vin shrugged and rolled his eyes. "You'll have to ask him why."

"Well, I think it's sweet and suits her perfectly." Lucy studied the lean rider next to her, trying not to be too obvious. He'd donned an old battered gray slouch hat, which had seen better days, to protect him from the bright sun, and sat the saddle with the grace of a born rider. She was well aware there were those riders who paid good money to learn how to ride, and then there were those to whom it came naturally. Vin was clearly one of the latter.

She drew in a deep breath and waved her hand in the air. "I can see why you offered to do this for Chris. It's beautiful up here." The wide green mountain meadows, the spreading cottonwoods and shimmering aspens, the rippling streams sparkling in the bright sunshine.... There was a quiet peacefulness here which seemed to beckon to her.

He nodded. "Does a body good to get away from it all once in a while." he admitted. "Can find peace up here."

She studied the handsome face shadowed under the hat's wide brim. Tanner was a man born to nature. Just as some men were born to be corporate heads, thriving in the boardroom, Vin was a child of the wilderness. It was plain to see he needed the open spaces just as much as the deer, wolves or any of the creatures roaming the woods.

She realized now why he had asked her to come along, hoping she, too, could find peace. Amazed by his insight, touched by his consideration, Lucy reached out and lightly laid her hand on his arm. "Thank you, Vin, for asking me along." It had been a long time since anyone had given a rat's ass about how she felt, and his concern for her well being touched her deeply.

He flushed, ducking his head, embarrassment bringing his Texas drawl to the fore. "Aww, hell, ma'am, yer welcome."

She arched her eyebrows in mock anger. "'Ma'am'? You didn't just call me ma'am, did you?" she teased as the mare sidled along beside the gelding.

He snorted. "If the boot fits...."

Her eyes flashed with glee. "Oh, Tanner, you been watchin' too many of those ol' westerns Chris has got in there on his shelves."

His eyes sparkled as he ducked his head. "Ya ain't seen my shelves," he admonished.

"That an invite?" she questioned seriously.

"Ya want it to be?" he countered, staring at her.

More than anything. And to her surprise, she found herself nodding. "Yes," she whispered softly bringing her eyes up to meet his. Something flashed in the blue depths and she felt a shiver race down her spine at the emotion she saw in the man's face. She felt it again. That unexplainable link, that bonding, that sense of knowing....... It frightened her and she spun the dun away, breaking Vin's stare as she spurred the animal on ahead, leaving him shaking his head as he followed.

*******

Frank Blair smiled to himself as he watched the two riders head across the valley. He easily recognized the woman and a sneer twisted his features. "Gotcha, bitch," he muttered.

It had taken time, but he had plenty of that and now it had paid off for he had found her. It had been so easy. The dim-witted woman who had corresponded with him while he was in prison, had convinced herself he was in love with her. A few chosen words, a promise never meant to be kept, and when he had arrived on her doorstep, she had more than happily handed over her life savings and the keys to her car. She understood he couldn't give her an address, but with a kiss, the stupid cow had assured him she'd meet him at a certain cantina in Mexico as soon as she could sell her house and cash out her stocks and bonds. The money accrued would allow them to live without worries for quite some time. Of course, no one said he had to spend this freedom chained to that gullible bitch in order to enjoy her money.

A few of those dollars had gone to a couple of teenagers, out for a good time, who had agreed to deliver the car to a non-existent person in Mexico. Giving them gas money, the keys and a few extra bucks, he'd watched them drive off, headed south. It had been a simple matter for him to hot wire another vehicle and head north.

Frank had actually been lurking outside Lucy's house, watching, planning exactly how he would surprise her, when the long haired man had arrived, and Blair had watched, and followed as they left her house. He had followed them here, to this place.... This place where he knew they were alone. All he had to do was bide his time.

Blair hadn't eluded the law all those years before by being careless. People were creatures of habit. That's how he'd managed to find Lucy in the first place. He had counted on her love of animals and her desire to be a veterinarian, sure she wouldn't throw away years of study and hard work to live a life of anonymity, waiting tables or working in a factory. He had remembered she had once said she'd grown up in the Four Corners area of Colorado and he knew frightened people always returned to the place they felt safest.

Now, with the deceitful bitch in his sights, he'd just wait and watch. It would be simple to discover the habits of his prey's latest conquest. Once he was sure, he would keep the promise he'd made Lucy so long ago. He smiled coldly. If the longhaired man got in the way, so much the better.

*******

They rode until dusk began to draw in around them and Vin finally pointed out a small river near a stand of aspens. "We'll camp there tonight." So saying, he reined the gelding towards the water and Lucy followed.

They'd spent the afternoon ambling along, enjoying the surroundings and each other's company. Vin, never much of a talker, found himself drawn out, enjoying her questions and quiet conversation. The miles had slipped by under the horses' hooves and they had not even halted for supper, pushing on to this spot along the river.

Tanner considered this 'his' place. Whenever he made the trek to the high mountain pastures alone, this was where he stayed, usually for a day or two. The river teemed with rainbow trout and when hungry, he would land a couple for his meals and otherwise, just relished the wild beauty and solitude of the place. For some unknown reason, he felt strangely drawn to it in a way he could not explain. Like his cabin, there was something special about this location. This place not only brought him peace, but an odd sense of belonging. It was as if it had sat here for a hundred years waiting for his return, like it was some misty haven from his past.

As he watched Lucy swing down from her saddle, and turn to tending the dun, he frowned slightly. He had never brought Chris here, even though it was still on the man's property and he was puzzled as to why he had brought Lucy. Why had he had the urge to share this place with her of all people?

Vin watched as she turned from the mare, her expression one of contemplation as she gazed around the area he'd chosen.

There was a touch of awe in the hushed voice as Lucy admitted, "I've been here before."

His eyes widened. "Chris bring ya up here?"

She shook her head. "No...." Her eyes locked with his, as in a small voice, she added. "you did."

His eyes flared open wider and Vin took a step back. Shaking his head he nervously laughed, "Whoa, now, think I'd a 'membered that."

She stared at him intently, then with a deep breath, she plunged on. "We were here, Vin... you and me. A long, long time ago. Don't ask me how I know -- I just do." At his disbelieving expression, she rushed on. "Don't tell me you haven't felt it. I know you have, just like me. Another time, another life.... we were here."

Vin's blue eyes widened further. How was it she knew exactly what he was feeling?

Misinterpreting his stunned expression, Lucy shook her head, her voice begging him to understand. "I'm not crazy, Vin."

"Never said ya was," he murmured.

"I don't know why, but there's something..... " she crossed her arms in front of her chest and rubbed her forearms, feeling suddenly chilled. "something I can't explain.... between .... us." She shook her head and attempted to laugh. "And you think I'm nuts and don't believe me. Maybe I am crazy after all, but you said back at Chris' you felt it, too.....Didn’t you?." she needlessly reminded him.

"I ain't denying' it, Lucy." he whispered, stepping closer to her. Lord, he thought he was going crazy with the strange feelings he had felt since her phone call to Chris'. Like she was a sweet memory, locked in his mind, and in his heart. "It's...it's like..." he hesitated, afraid she would think him either nuts or more likely using a line to get in her bed, as he quietly went on, "yer a piece missin' from my past... only no past I lived now."

The sharpshooter had never been one to question his feelings or instincts. This sense of having known Lucy was the same sensation he'd gotten the first time he met Chris. It was just as strong and sure. He had known from the beginning Larabee was a man he could trust with his life. It was the same feeling he'd gotten from the other five men on the team. It was as if he'd known them before. As if he had worked and fought beside them in some other place. Some other time. The same feelings that rushed through him each time he came to this spot on the waterway.

So why was he questioning these feelings now? Because Lucy shared them? Vin suspected the others had often felt the same as he did, which was probably the reason they had all agreed when approached about joining the team. The only difference between them and Lucy was Lucy had voiced those feelings.

Vin reached out cupping her cheek in his callused hand and Lucy leaned into the comforting gesture, feeling a familiar peace settle over her at his gentle touch. He stepped closer, his arms going about her in a gesture as natural as if it were an everyday occurrence and as she melted into his arms, it felt like going home, only to a home she had never known in this lifetime.

*******

They unsaddled and hobbled the animals to graze on the grass, knowing they would not wander far. Lucy quickly built a fire in the rock ringed circle and had coffee brewing by the time Vin had unpacked their bedrolls and set out a trout line, promising fresh fish for breakfast. He had packed biscuits, apples, and cheese in his saddlebags and they sat by the fire and drank coffee and ate, watching as the stars began to fill the sky, shining like diamonds on endless blue black velvet. From somewhere near the water's edge, a wild animal mournfully called out and another answered.

The night breeze rustled the aspen leaves above them as they sat, leaning against their saddles, reveling in the wonder and beauty of the night. They hadn't said a dozen words to each other since she'd moved from his arms earlier. There had been no need.

The strange comfortable familiarity had strengthened between them as if this place had magical powers. Powers neither of them wished to break. Finally, realizing it was late and Vin would probably want to get an early start, Lucy quietly moved to spread her bedroll near the fire.

Vin finished his coffee, checked the animals, banked the fire and moved to turn in as well, spreading his blankets on the opposite side of the fire. He heard her softly whispered good night as he settled down and softly responded in kind before closing his eyes and drifting off to sleep.

*******

The terrified scream tore through the quiet valley, jerking Vin upright in his blankets, his hand automatically reaching for the rifle at his side. His wide eyes searched the star bright darkness, his startled gaze settling on Lucy who was thrashing about in her blankets, sobs of terror pouring from her.

On his knees, Tanner scrambled to her side, reaching out a calming hand to touch her shoulder. She flinched and screamed again, struggling harder as the blankets entrapped her legs.

"Lucy!" he called her name sharply, shaking her shoulders roughly, knowing trapped in her nightmares, it was probably the only thing that would wake her. "Lucy, wake up!"

Lucy's eyes flew open, wide and unfocused at the sound of her name. With a frightened squeal, she scooted as far away from him as she could, coming to a stop as her back pressed against the worn leather saddle she had been using for a pillow.

"Lucy... it's me... It's Vin." He could see her trembling in the dying embers of the campfire. "Yer safe here..." He spoke softly, trying to calm her.

Clutching her arms across her chest, shivering from a chill deep within herself rather than the night air, her frantic gaze searched the campsite. Her rapid breathing hitched as she focused on him. "V-V-Vin?" she stammered, looking around the quiet campsite. "W-What..what happened?"

A small tentative smile touched his lips. "You's dreamin'...."

Nightmares! Lately they haunted her sleep with distressing regularity. She had hoped the peaceful surroundings here would allow her one night of undisturbed slumber. Unable to meet his worried gaze, biting her lip with trepidation, Lucy tried to offer some reassurance. "Sorry I-I woke you.... I'm okay now." A quick glance at the man beside her was enough to let her know he wasn't buying a single word of it. "Go back to sleep, Vin. Everything's fine.... Honest, I'm okay."

He sat back on his heels, studying her ashen face. "Ya don't need ta lie ta me, Lucy. Yer far from okay."

She lifted her head and tried to deny it by giving him a defiant stare, but her chin began to quiver and the hot burning tears she could no longer control began to slowly trickle down her cheeks.

Vin's heart broke at the anguish he saw in her shimmering eyes and he quickly moved the few feet separating them, gathering her gently to him.

"Aww, Lucy...." He held her, his strong hands gently rubbing her tense back as quiet soundless sobs shook her slender body and her nerveless fingers clutched at his shirtfront. He murmured inanely, rocking her slightly as he held her in the comforting safety of his arms.

*******

Chris Larabee frowned as he entered his living room. The seminar had ended early and he had caught the first flight home, glad to be away from the big city and back to his own private little corner of God's country. Pitching his bags on the floor, he called out, "Vin? Hey, Tanner, I'm home."

He had no doubt the sharpshooter was there somewhere. The familiar beat up Land Rover was parked in its usual spot in the driveway. As his gaze swept over the living room, his eyes locked on the blanket and pillow stacked neatly on the end of the couch. He shook his head. When the hell would Vin realize he was welcome to use any of the bedrooms when he stayed over?

There was no answer to his repeated calls, no aroma of the strong brew the rest of the team laughingly referred to as coffee, and at closer inspection he saw the pot was empty and cold.

He sighed wearily. Tanner must have ridden up to the high meadow, or the coffee would definitely be on. That man couldn't do anything without a cup of that mud he had the audacity to call coffee near at hand.

Larabee raked his fingers though his hair. Chris' nerves were stretched taut from being cooped up in a hotel full of men who wanted to bitch about their bosses, their cases, prosecutors, defense attorneys and laws they thought favored the criminal rather than aiding them in doing their job. Worse yet, were those who wanted his opinion on the best way to handle difficult situations.

He had been sorely tempted to tell them to find themselves a bashful ex-bounty hunter, a smart-ass con man, a womanizing pilot, a knife throwing physician, an ex-priest who once worked for the FBI and a kid who was not only an electronics whiz, but could practically make a computer stand up and dance. But due to the circumstances of his covert team, Larabee had attended the conference under the guise of being a freelance investigator for the Denver Prosecutor's office. It had rankled him to be considered an outsider of sorts, when in fact, his team had aided and saved the asses of several of the very men who were in the room.

On the long plane ride back, Chris had thought of nothing but sitting on the porch with his best friend and an ice cold beer, letting the built up tension flow from his muscles. He sighed heavily. Well at least he could sit and enjoy the beer.

Knowing Vin, he realized the Texan had probably left at sun up and chosen to go by horseback rather than take his Land Rover or one of Larabee's off road four wheelers. The Texan would come dragging in after sundown, weary, but determined to finish any chores he thought had been left undone.

Chris shook his head again. That boy seemed to feel he had to earn his keep to be welcome in someone's home.

Well, he might as well work off some of his own pent up energy and finish whatever needed done. Kicking off his good boots, Chris unbuttoned his shirt as he made his way to the bedroom, intending to change before heading out to the barn. Tossing the shirt in the hamper, he grabbed a tee shirt from the dresser drawer, pulling it over his head as he ambled across the room toward the closet.

His hand on the doorknob, Chris suddenly froze in place, his sluggish brain, finally registering what his eyes had seen.

'No way in hell?' was his immediate thought. Forcing himself to turn around, his hazel gaze came to rest on the item lying on the king size bed. Looking away, he blinked tired eyes several times, and pinched the bridge of his nose, certain it was nothing more than a figment of his overly stressed mind. Slowly he opened his eyes, sure the item he'd imagined would have vanished. Nope, still there. There was no question about it; there was a woman's silky undergarment lying on his bed. Taking tentative steps toward the bed, Larabee continued to stare at the piece of clothing as if it was about to come to life and take a bite out of him.

"Damn!" Who would have thought Vin would bring a woman--any woman--out here and in Chris' bed no less. A sudden chuckle rippled from the blond man. Unless there was a side of Vin he wasn't aware of.

"We're definitely gonna have us a talk my friend," Chris mumbled aloud, looking about to be sure he was indeed alone in the room. "I been hopin' ya'd learn ta treat this place like it was yours, but my bed is not exactly what I had in mind."

He saw a pack on the floor and curiosity getting the better of him, stooped down and glanced at the ID tag: GARTH. His hazel eyes lit. "Lucy..." he murmured, then suddenly afraid one of his animals might be hurt, he quickly scrambled to finish changing clothes, and raced for the barn.

*******

Not only were there no sick animals down, there was also no sign the lanky Texan or the pretty female vet. The stock had been turned out and a quick look around revealed two saddle horses and the old pack mule gone. Evidently Vin had talked the young woman into riding with him to deliver the salt blocks to the upper meadow

With a knowing smile, Larabee wandered back to the house. There were probably better ways to get to know someone, but he couldn't think of any way prettier than a long ride to the mountains.

At one time, Chris had hoped the veterinarian and his backward friend would somehow connect, figuring they would do each other a world of good. They were both shy, with a lost and lonely air about them and short of ordering them on a date, Larabee had done everything possible to bring the two together. Although neither Vin nor Lucy had vocally admitted such, he knew there was an attraction between the two people.

Out of habit, Larabee pressed the play button of the answering machine on the kitchen counter as he crossed to the refrigerator, intending to fix a sandwich before tackling the unfinished chores.

The third message stopped him cold. It was Buck's voice. "Hey, Pard, bad news. New Mexico Patrol caught up with a couple of teenagers who said they's paid to drive that lady's car clear to Mexico. Run outta gas and money so they just left it where it stopped." There was a moment's hesitation. "There's a good chance Blair's still around, so watch your back. Me and the boys'll be there 'bout six...."

He was reaching for and punching Wilmington's number on the speed dial before the message finished.

*******

Vin wasn't sure how long he held her as Lucy quietly sobbed, releasing all the fear and terror she had held constrained behind the facade of strength and independence she presented to the world. Tanner murmured reassuringly, gently rocking her and stroking her hair back from her face. Her small hands tightly clutched the front of his Henley shirt, as if she were afraid he would abandon her if she let go.

Lucy's sobs weakened down to hiccups, then hitching breaths as she finally exhausted herself. She relaxed her grasp on him and started to push away, but he lightly clasped her hand and held it in his. His voice was a soft whisper, "Ya all right?"

She sniffed and nodded without speaking, slowly wiggling her hand free of his.

"Lucy..."

"'M okay," she mumbled, not looking up.

He gently wrapped his arms about her shoulders again and pulled her closer. "Ya ain't ..." he whispered.

Wearied mentally, she settled against his chest, feeling safe in his strong embrace. For now, just this one time, she would let someone else protect her. Just for tonight, she would let Vin fight the threatening demons that wanted to make her life a living hell. Just for tonight....

Lucy could feel the strong steady beat of his heart beneath her cheek, his soft breaths stirring her hair and the gentle stroking of his hand on her back. Small things, but such comfort to someone who hadn't known them in far too long. Wrapping her fingers in his shirtfront again, she closed her eyes, and feeling a safety she hadn't known in years, she gave in, and drifted off to sleep.

Vin stared down at her tear stained face, barely visible in the starlight and sighed softly. She seemed so frightened and defenseless, not at all the self-assured young woman she would have everyone believe. He knew first hand the way fear could dog a person. Hell, he'd lived with fear of one kind or another all his life. He knew what it was like to have to face it alone, with no where to turn, no one to help, no one to share the burden. Vin silently cursed Blair for putting Lucy through this. She didn't deserve it.... No one did.

But for now, he would hold her, keep the nightmares at bay and give her some small sense of security. It was the least he could do.... The only thing he could do.

Snuggling down against her saddle, he one handedly tugged the blankets up over her shoulder. The woman murmured softly and nestled closer to him, burying her face in his shoulder. He wrapped his arms more securely about her, and saw a slight smile drift over her lips, unwittingly bringing a small smile to his own lips. Softly, shyly he planted a kiss on her forehead, then closing his eyes, he drifted off.

*******

Lucy awoke with a start and lay perfectly still. Something was wrong. Some small sound foreign to her had jarred her from sleep. She cracked open one eye, her breath catching as both eyes flew open wide. She forced herself not to move, although every instinct was screaming at her to do so.

Taking a calming breath, she realized, with a flush of chagrin, she was snuggled up against Vin Tanner's chest and his left arm lay loosely about her shoulders. The previous night's events fell into place and a self-conscious smile flickered over her face. Sensing Vin was normally a light sleeper, she slowly and carefully eased herself from his hold and quietly gained her feet. She stood for a moment looking down at the handsome Texan.

Worn out from the ride and interrupted night, Vin still slept, his breathing deep and easy. His eyes closed, his long lashes fanned against his cheeks, sparkling golden in the breaking morning sunlight. Several strands of his long hair had drifted across his face, giving him the singular appearance of some wild creature caught unaware it was being observed.

A peculiar thought surfaced and Lucy couldn't help but wonder why someone so gentle and caring had chosen the often violent career of law enforcement. With Vin's kind touch and soothing manner, he would have been a wonderful doctor or counselor, or maybe something dealing with children. Something about him screamed this was man born to be a father and she couldn't help but wonder why some lucky woman hadn't already snatched him up. A smile tugged at her lips as she realized if they had, neither of them would be here, and here, with this man, was where she truly felt she was meant to be.

Leaving Vin sleeping, Lucy meandered across the meadow towards the water's edge. Wild creature.... Her lips curled up at the two words, realizing they depicted this man to a tee. Vin Tanner was no 'three piece suit, nine to five, cruise the bars on Friday, football on Saturday, church on Sunday' type of man. Not in this lifetime or any other.

Funny, she had always been attracted to wild things, even as a child bringing in stray dogs and cats, birds with broken wings, motherless fawns. It was the major reason she had become a vet. To help those wild hurt creatures and send them on their way. But for some reason, she knew in her heart, this Vin Tanner was one wild creature she did not want to set free....

Moving to the stream bank, Lucy knelt and scooping water up in her hands, she splashed her face, suppressing a yelp as the cold water hit her skin. With a smile, still feeling Vin's arms about her so protectively, she scrubbed her face, then settled back on the grass to let the slight breeze dry her off.

Stretching, she finally gained her feet, looking back at the campsite. Vin still lay on the blankets and needing time to herself, as much as he needed the extra sleep, she slowly wandered along the water's edge.

It was peaceful here, so quiet she could hear the drone of the honeybees as they buzzed from flower to colorful flower. She stopped, watching the butterflies flitter in the morning light.... Some shining like winged jewels. Several actually flew up and landed on her hair and shoulder, sitting there, slowly moving their colorful wings to some strange litany only they knew.

An old line about the butterfly of happiness alighting when a person stopped chasing it popped into her mind and her face broke into a wide smile. Perhaps there was truth in the old adage after all. She wandered on across the meadow, the butterflies finally taking wing to soar about her before lazily drifting off.

Lucy was surprised to find herself unusually comfortable in this place. It wasn't just the peace and quiet or the beauty surrounding her. It puzzled her that it was more a comfortable familiarity, as if she somehow belonged here and was coming home after a long absence.

She stumbled over a rough place and focusing her attention, she realized it was part of some old stone foundation. Looking around, she realized years before, a house had stood there near an old ancient cottonwood. There was little left.... A few square stones from the foundation, an old rusted wagon wheel, a sagging long overgrown fence line, visible as only a straight line across the meadow, far too perfect a line to be wrought by nature's hand.

Looking closer, she could make out the vague stones marking where another structure had stood. An old barn perhaps, its logs long rotted and returned to the earth. She sighed as she moved to sit down on a nearby flat-topped stone, after first checking for snakes.

Lucy dearly loved old things. She had a sense of longing to return to that time when the young nation was struggling to survive and expand. Back when the pioneers pushed forward, searching for a place of their own to call home and mountain men retreated to the hills, avoiding the advancement of civilization. Without the modern day conveniences, she knew the work had been hard and yet those times seemed so much simpler, uncomplicated and happy. Families and neighbors often pulled together for a common goal. There had been no television, video games or computers, but the families had found their own entertainment, bringing them closer together in ways no longer known in today's fast paced, hectic lifestyle.

She sighed again, and closed her eyes. She could mentally envision this small cabin, wisps of smokes spiraling from its stone chimney, baskets of flowers hanging from the porch rafters. Horses in a corral by the old barn, a garden patch out back, and an old stone well. Lifting her face to the sky, eyes still closed, she could almost smell the smoke and could vaguely see the people who had lived there so long ago. A tall longhaired broad shouldered man, a dark haired woman and a little girl -- a family -- surrounded by love. If she thought really hard, she believed she could almost see their faces, hear their voices...

"Lucy!"

Startled at the sound of her name drifting across the meadow, she opened her eyes, smiling as Vin approached, the horses ambling along behind him like enormously overgrown puppies. She straightened self-consciously, her smile growing wider as he neared. . 

"Mornin'." His azure-eyed gaze searched her face, trying to ascertain if she was okay as he settled down on his haunches beside her, the horses wandering off to graze.

She nodded. "Good morning." There was a warm note of happiness in her voice and she saw his expression ease. Amazement at his concern for her flooded through her yet again. "I - I was taking a walk and found this place..." She motioned with her hand and he turned to survey the area. "Doesn't it look like there was an old homestead or something here?"

He nodded, noting with a quick eye the things she had seen. "Looks like," he admitted. "Long time ago."

She let her gaze drift over the site again.

Vin's voice was low. "Can't help but wonder what those folks were like.... Couldn't have been easy on them, out here so far from civilization. Gotta wonder what made them stay."

"Love," she whispered without thinking, then flushed as he turned his head to stare at her. "Don't you think love makes people do things they wouldn't normally do?"

He frowned. "Reckon so," he admitted, although not from personal experience.

"Love of family, love of the land, love of the peacefulness and beauty here..." Lucy sighed wistfully. "One could almost envy them."

Vin toyed with a long stem of grass he had plucked, weaving it about his slender fingers. "Don't...don't ya think they had it rough out here? I mean workin' the land by hand. Fightin' the animals and Indians and elements. And so far away from everything. Sure couldn't a been easy on 'em." Tanner couldn't help but think how much he, himself, would have loved it. Being away from everything was the reason he'd chosen the location for his cabin. At times, even Chris' ranch wasn't far enough from the city to soothe the sharpshooter's soul. "'Specially the women."

She nodded a flash of sadness in her eyes. "Life is never easy, Vin, no matter where you are."

Tanner nodded, agreeing with her. "No one ever said it would be," he pointed out softly.

"Truer words were never spoken. Of course, family and friends have a way of making life's journey a little easier. " Pushing to her feet, she dusted her hands on her jeans. "Guess we better get moving..."

He gained his feet and with a nod and a smile, his thoughts turning to the six men who had become his family, they headed back towards camp, the horses following at Vin's low whistle.

*******

Chris was on the porch, pacing anxiously as Wilmington's familiar Dakota pulled in his drive. It was about damn time! The womanizer had given him very little information on the phone, saying he'd explain when they got to Larabee's. He hurried down the steps as Buck and JD climbed out and met him halfway.

"Where's....?"

"Ezra and Josiah were right behind us, but stopped at the fillin' station." He snorted. "Can't figure why Ezra hangs onto that gas guzzler. Oughta get him a good dependable truck like us. Nathan had to run by Rayne's and drop off some notes she needed. They'll be here shortly." Buck assured him, adding with a smile, "Hey, ol' buddy, glad you're back. How was the seminar?"

"Yeah, I'm back, glad ta be and it was boring as hell." Chris brushed it aside. "You wanna tell me what's goin' on? Where's Vin? And what's Lucy Garth doing here?"

Buck hooked an arm about the blond man's shoulders. "Aww, hell, c'mon now, Pard, ya ain't that old. But considerin' it's probably been awhile, maybe ya just need a refresher course in the basics. Sometimes a guy and a gal like time -- Hey, c'mon," he steered his friend toward the door, "dependin' on how much ya forgot, this could take awhile and I talk better when I have something cold in my hand."

Wilmington knew Chris was worried about the young tracker. He'd spent too many years at the man's side not to be able to hear every subtle nuance in Larabee's speech and read the signs in his body language. He'd also known the man too long not to realize he wouldn't be this upset just because Vin had borrowed a couple a horses and gone off into the hills with a pretty woman. Hopefully this time, Chris' instincts, which had carried them safely through more missions then Buck cared to count, were wrong.

Either way, until they knew something for sure or, at least, had more information, the pilot would fall back on a long practiced theme and try to divert the man's worry and relax his friend's tension with teasing and easy laughter, just as if they truly didn't have a care in the world.

Only this time, Chris wasn't buying it as he jerked away. "Buck..." he warned lowly, his glare intensifying.

"Hey, Buck, go get us some beers, I'll fill Chris in," JD offered and Buck hurried on into the house as Chris homed in on the youngest member of their team. JD leaned back against the porch railing, suddenly wishing he'd volunteered to get the drinks. The others were better at handling Larabee and his temper, but JD was a part of this team and was quickly learning to read the man and see the signs indicating that Larabee's smoldering temper was about to erupt into a full fledged volcano. "Well, seems someone named Frank Blair has been stalking Miss Garth.... or so she thinks. You know who Blair is?" Chris nodded curtly. "Vin asked us to do some checking on DOC records, parole board, visitors and such before Blair was released."

Buck returned, passing the men cold beers as he dropped into one of the porch rockers. Larabee wasn't going to be happy with the intell, but Wilmington figured he'd let JD handle it unless it looked like Chris was going to get out of hand. Larabee wouldn't be as likely to lose it completely with the youngster.

JD toyed with the bottle in his hand as he continued. "Trail looked like Blair had run to Mexico, but the New Mexico Highway Patrol stopped these two teenagers for stealing a vehicle and they 'fessed up they'd driven Blair's car south for him, for a few bucks and beers."

"False trail," Buck offered. "Me and Ez checked it out. Wanted to make sure they wasn't just tryin' ta wiggle their young asses outta the mess they'd gotten into. Was Blair's car, sure enough. At least the one he'd conned outta some soft hearted woman in love."

"Yeah, they laid a false trail so there's a good chance the man's still around here."

"Vin say why he's after Lucy?" Chris demanded, chewing on his lip. How much had Vin told them about the vet's involvement with Blair? How much did Tanner actually know?

"Don't know," Buck shrugged. "Vin didn't say and didn't think to ask him. Reckoned he'd tell us if he thought it was important."

"Fuck!" Chris shook his head and blew out a deep breath. "Blair ain't no light weight. Vin don't know what's he's gotten himself into. That sonuvabitch'll kill him," he murmured.

JD exchanged puzzled looks with Buck. The mustached agent leaned forward, all his senses on alert at Larabee's reaction. "What ya mean, Chris?"

Chris raked a hand through his short hair. "Blair's a jealous lunatic. He killed a man for looking at his wife."

Buck shook his head, a sudden sinking feeling in his stomach, hoping his suspicions were wrong.

JD frowned, still puzzled, looking from one man to the other. "What's that got to do with Vin?"

"That wife was Lucy."

The four quiet words hit like a bomb as Buck blurted out, "You knew and you didn't say anything to him?" He shook his head in disbelief. Unfortunately his suspicions had hit the nail on the head, but he couldn't believe Chris hadn't told any of this to Tanner. Buck berated himself, remembering how he had silently laughed, enjoying himself as he'd watched Larabee's half assed match making efforts on behalf of the shy sharpshooter. If he had known the vet's history, Buck would have nipped it in the bud. The tracker didn't need that kind of heartache in his life. He'd suffered enough as it was.

"Hell, I didn't know about Blair at first and then.....well, Vin didn't seem all that interested in Lucy and Blair was still doing time.... How did I know him and Lucy'd connect while I was gone and that that crazy bastard would get let out?" Chris stalked across the porch. "Damnit! I leave for a week and everything goes to hell! Know'd I shoulda told him."

Seeing the guilt flare in the older man, Buck rose and stepped closer, laying his hand on Chris' shoulder, "Hey, Pard, don't go blaming yourself. You couldn't a knowed they would get together."

"Damnit, I shoulda! I got eyes. I seen the way he-"

"And Vin's almost as good at hiding his feelin's as Ezra," Buck pointed out, silently adding, 'or you.'

Chris moved away. "Shut up, Buck! Shit! Shit! Shit!" He slammed his fist into the porch post and winced at the pain.

"Feel better now?" Buck grinned. "Ya know you ain't helping Vin or Lucy like that."

Chris turned to glare at him, some of his anger draining away at the playful smile of his oldest friend, realizing Buck was right and would take every opportunity to point out that fact. Larabee would never hear the end of it if he busted his hand, only to find out Tanner and Lucy had simply spent a pleasant day enjoying the countryside. He gathered his wits about him and pointed out the obvious, "All right, two saddle horses and the mule are gone, so it appears they're out riding. Vin said something about taking salt up to the high pasture. I figure that's probably where they went."

"Should be safe up there," Buck stated. "Only way up is across your land or the back side of the forest, right?" Chris nodded. "Then they should be all right. Depending on when they left, I'll venture they'll come riding back in sometime this evening. Course, if our resident Texan has learned anything at all by watchin' moi, he'll take advantage of havin' that pretty young thing all to himself and we won't see 'em till sometime tomorrow or the next day." He knew almost to the minute when Vin had headed out and knew they probably wouldn't be back until sometime the following day but saw no reason to worry Larabee further.

"Well, ya don't mind if I worry until they do get back, do ya?" Chris muttered lowly.

"Hell, Chris, why not? You do it so well," Buck teased, slinging his arm about the older man's shoulders. "Shit, just wouldn't be right iffen ya didn't, now would it? Gotta have some excuse for all them gray hairs yer gettin'."

With a disgusted growl, Chris shoved off his arm and went inside. The ladies' man was probably right. Vin could fend for himself and knew his way home....

*******

Ezra's classic Camero pulled in the drive and parking the beloved vehicle as far from the others as possible to avoid the dings and scratches of slinging gravel, the two passengers climbed out and moved up on the porch where JD and Buck were sprawled, drinking beers.

"Are we to assume Mister Larabee's mind has been put to ease?" Ezra asked as he settled in one of the wooden rockers, accepting the cold beer JD shoved in his direction..

"Hell, no. He's worried sick, but it looks like Vin and Miss Garth rode up to the high meadow and Buck convinced him short of a helicopter there was no way for anyone to get up where they was going," JD blurted out.

"Then young Mister Tanner and the lovely veterinarian are simply out joy riding?" Ezra questioned, taking a long swallow of the cold draft. The gambler hoped that was indeed the circumstances, but something deep inside was telling him otherwise.

"Seems so. Ya know, I think we ought a start charging Vin for all the times we come running to his rescue when he don't need rescuing...." Buck began then seeing the looks on his friends' faces, he stopped. "What?"

"Brother Buck, you are surely Bob Hope's brother," Josiah muttered, adding, "No hope..." looking over his shoulder as Nathan pulled in.

The slim black man climbed from his vehicle, a distracted expression on his face. They all knew that look. It was the one the black man wore when one of them was injured and he was trying to convince himself everything was going to be fine.

"Where's Chris?" he demanded without greeting. Barely noticing Buck jerk his thumb toward the door, Nathan hurried inside.

Exchanging looks, the other men filed in behind him. Everything about the doctor's actions screamed disaster had struck the seven.

"..... and I talked to the deputy. Seems someone broke into Bigelow's place. Stole a high power rifle, campin' gear and hot wired his four wheeler..."

A look of anguish crossed Chris' face as he spun to face Buck, his eyes asking why neither of them had considered off road vehicles. "When.......?"

"Hell, Chris, they ain't sure. Yesterday, maybe the day before."

"Get some gear and get ready to ride. That sonuvabitch's got a jump on us!" Larabee was already moving to the gun cabinet.

*******

The afternoon sun was shining down on the two riders as they headed back to Larabee's. That late in the summer, Chris' stock grazed on government range property. For a paltry rental fee each year, Larabee, as well as other local ranchers, could run their cattle on the national park land. Not only was it an asset to the ranchers, allowing them to conserve their own grazing land, it was a bonus to the park service, as the cattle kept the grasses trimmed down during the always dangerous fire season.

Knowing the cattle could be anywhere, Vin had left the mineral salt blocks at the lick site. Riding around, they had spotted a couple dozen cattle, mostly cows with half-grown calves and Lucy had given them a visual once over, stating they were in great shape. Vin knew Chris would be glad to hear it. Come gathering time, the cattle would bring a good market price.

It was almost with regret that Vin turned his horse back towards Larabee's home range. He would never flat out admit it, but he had actually enjoyed the young woman's company and he truly hated to see their time together end.

Lucy had relaxed and begun to enjoy the ride, letting the peace of the serene countryside soothe her troubled mind. Laughing and teasing him, she was able to coax laughter and bright smiles from him, and after his rough last assignment and her problems, it was exactly what they both needed.

They rode the horses across the swift water of the river, Lucy giggling as the current pulled her from the saddle. Grabbing onto the mare's tail, she let the animal tow her across the wide stream, enjoying the cool feel of the water in the early afternoon's heat.

Her giggles of delight bringing a smile to his handsome face, Vin had shook his head and followed, leading the obstinate mule who balked at the water's edge, nearly dragging the young man from the saddle.

"Awww, hell..." He was still trying to coax the stubborn animal across when Lucy made it to the other side and stood next to the mare, dripping wet, laughing at him.

"Why don't you carry him across?" she teased, garnering a narrowed eyed Larabee glare from Tanner, which made her laugh all the more. "Ya need some help, Cowboy?" she yelled out.

Vin's head came up and he nearly dropped the lead rope as the mule chose that moment to lunge for the other side. Letting the animal go, he urged the gelding across, and drew rein, dropping lightly to the ground beside Lucy as his blue eyes bore into her. "W-Why did you call me that?" he whispered, his gaze locked on her face.

She frowned and shook her head. "I-I don't know. It just seemed...right somehow."

He knew there was no way she had heard Chris use the term, and to hear the so hauntingly familiar nickname come from her, gave him a start. How could she know?

Lucy stared up into his face. "Is something wrong, Vin?" she questioned, her expression puzzled at his actions.

He shook his head. "Jist..... jist ain't heard ya call me that before." His soft Texas drawl was back in full force again, a reaction she'd noticed only happened when he was startled or upset.

She reached up, jerking his battered old hat down over his eyes. "Well, ya look like a cowboy, so it's fittin'," she teased, imitating his soft inflection.

He lifted his chin, his blue eyes intense as he peered at her from under the too low brim. "Ya got somethin' again' cowboys, ma'am?"

"Not in the least, Mister Tanner, not in the least. 'Course," she swung up into her saddle, giving him a bright smile, "I'd never offend the only person who knows the way home."

"Even iffen he's a cowboy," Vin muttered, moving to gather the mule's lead. Pushing his hat back, he paused by her horse, and stared up at her, "Ya know, ma'am, I'm a mighty hard man to offend."

She touched heels to the mare and as she rode off, she tossed over her shoulder, "I'll keep that in mind..... Cowboy."

Vin just shook his head as he mounted up and followed.

*******

They stopped for a late lunch and Lucy sighed with contentment as she sat back, watching the horses graze nearby. Vin had managed to hook several rainbow trout from the nearby stream and making a small fire, he'd grilled the fish and made coffee.

Lucy could not remember having such a wonderful repast. Perhaps it was the fresh trout, perhaps the invigorating mountain air, or perhaps it was just the company, but she couldn't remember tasting anything so good in her life or enjoying herself more.

"My compliments to the chef," she called to Vin as he poured himself another cup of coffee, motioning towards her cup. She shook her head. "I honestly couldn't, Vin. I'll never get in the saddle as it is."

He smiled as he strided closer and hunkered down beside her, sipping at his coffee.

Lucy chewed her lip, then blurted out, "Vin, could... can we stay out another night?" She ducked her head at being so bold, hoping he did not misunderstand. "I just really don't want to go back yet."

"I..." Vin hesitated, seeing the look on her face. He really didn't want to either. Somehow here with her, the real world with all its pandemonium and ugliness seemed far away.

"I'll understand if you have something to do, but-"

"Buckly'll be worried iffen --"

"Can't ya send him a smoke signal or something? Please, Vin?" she pleaded, seeing the look in his eye and knowing he would never admit that he wasn't in a hurry to return either.

If they pushed hard they could reach the farm house a couple hours after sunset and even keeping a smooth steady pace would put them there before midnight but he saw no reason for hurry. He finally nodded. "Reckon we could."

"Can we stay by that old homestead? There's just something about that ol' place.... It appeals to something in me somehow."

He gave her a patient smile. "I know. Me, too," he admitted softly.

*******

With the mule trudging along side, the two horses ambled across the meadow towards the stand of Aspens, their riders laughing. Lucy was regaling Vin with one of her critter escapades and the young man's laughter rang across the small valley.

Not much on conversation himself, his often overwhelming shyness making him uncomfortable around anyone but his close friends, the tracker none the less loved to listen and Lucy's stories were a touch better than Buck's.

"....never knew an ol' seventy six year old man could run so fast. Seeing him scramble over that five foot fence...."

The wonderfully peaceful moment was suddenly shattered as Vin's bright laughter broke off with a painful grunt and the man reeled in the saddle.

Lucy's eyes widened as she grabbed for Tanner's arm, keeping him in the saddle as the gun's report echoed in her ears. She recognized the sound as a high powered rifle. With a scream, knowing who was firing and why, she whirled her horse, ready to flee, when the Texan's gelding bolted towards her mare, Vin unable to control the frightened animal as he swayed in the saddle.

With a curse, Lucy bent low and scooped up the gelding's reins and goading the mare, raced for the tree line.

She was still several hundred feet away when the old mule suddenly bellowed in pain and lurched to his knees as another report drifted on the still air. As the squealing animal went down, the gelding was wrenched around by the mule's lead rope, spilling Vin from the saddle to land heavily on the ground.

Eyes frantically searching the surrounding hills, not knowing where the shots were coming from or which way to run, Vin's painful groan drew Lucy's attention back to the man on the ground. The little mare, her eyes rolling with terror bolted as, with a choked curse, Lucy threw herself from the saddle and sank to her knees beside the wounded man.

As the mule thrashed about caught in the throes of death, one of the metal shod hooves connected with the young man a glancing blow on the side of his head, splitting the skin. Ignoring the blood from both the gunshot wound and gash on his head, Lucy struggled to pull Vin away from the weakening kicks of the dying animal and still keep in the slight protection the carcass offered.

Searching for any sign of the shooter, Lucy saw Tanner's gelding, having pulled free of the mule's lead rope, racing after Daisy into the Aspens. Grateful they would be safe, she nonetheless wished the rope had held the gelding there long enough to get Vin to safety as well.

Tanner's aching groan drew her attention back to the man on the ground beside her and she bent over him, quietly but urgently, calling his name. "Vin! Vin!"

His eyes were open and he was trying to push himself into a sitting position, his boot heels slipping in the grass as he tried to use his legs to lever himself upright.

"Vin!" She screamed his name, trying to hold him immobile until she could see how badly he was hurt. Blood was freely flowing down his face from the scalp laceration where the mule's hoof had caught him.

Unfortunately that wound was the least of her worries. Blood was rapidly discoloring his green Henley shirt, the material instantly wicking the blood.

Realizing Vin's frantic disoriented struggles were only going to make matters worse, she grasped his face between her hands, forcing him to focus on her.

"Vin, listen to me!" She tried to smile as his confused blue eyes met hers. "You need you to stay still, Vin. I need to see how badly you're hurt. Understand? I need you to hold as still as you can. Okay?"

The trauma was wearing off and the pain setting in. Tanner swiped the tip of his tongue over his lips, attempting to nod "Y-yeah..." he ground out, between clenched teeth.

She pat his cheek and bent to pull the blood soaked shirt aside. The slug had hit high in his right shoulder, nicking the collarbone. The entrance hole was small, but its exit had torn a larger hole, mangling his back. Clambering about, she groped with his bandana, finally getting it unknotted and folded into a pad, pressing it to the exit wound.

Vin groaned arching away from her hand, and she softly apologized as she one handedly fumbled with her shirt, ripping a section of the long tail to form another pad. Tossing aside the one which was already saturated with blood, she eased the second one into place and leaned heavily on it, trying to get the bleeding to stop.

Vin panted in agony and again tried to pull away, but she spoke softly, and he remained still, leaning forward, his bloodless cheek resting on his knees, his long hair partially shadowing his face.

Dragging her gaze from the wounded man, her frantic eyes swept the surrounding countryside. They were in a low depression, the trees a few hundred feet away. In the distance, she saw the area was bound on three sides by steep rocky hills. The gunman -- Blair, she knew beyond a shadow of a doubt -- could be anywhere. And as long as he had the high ground..... He had plainly made it clear he could hit them from where he was, but she knew him. He would toy with them, playing like a cat with a mouse. That's what kind of bastard he was. He wasn't being paid to do this job. This was purely for his own pleasure and revenge.

Still pressing tightly against the wound, Lucy dipped her head, wiping the sweat from her eyes. It was still hours until dark and she found herself suddenly hating the blazing sun beating down on them and fearful of its descent, knowing darkness would make it easier for Blair to move about unseen. The vet chewed her lip and looked back at Vin. He was in no shape to do anything. It had all fallen to her. A sudden quiver of fear raced through her, oddly, not selfishly for herself, but for her totally undeserving companion as she realized the longhaired man could die and it would all be her fault.

Lucy eased up the corner of the makeshift bandage and sighed with relief that while the bleeding hadn't stopped, it had slowed enough to allow her ease up on the pressure thereby causing Vin less pain. Quickly ripping her remaining shirttail, she replaced the soaked material and held the new one in place. Vin didn't struggle and she locked her gaze on his colorless face. He was slipping into unconsciousness and with a sigh, she realized it would probably be best for him.

Her gaze returned to the hillside, searching for anything. And then she saw it. The flicker of sunlight off metal. It was a good half-mile away, up near the top of the ridge line and she realized Blair was going to wait them out. Fury rose up in her. By damn, he'd have a long wait!

Remaining as low to the ground as possible, Lucy stretched and twisted, working frantically to release the straps holding their gear to the dead mule's packsaddle. Dragging one of the packs closer, she unzipped it. She finally found the first aid kit in the third pack, and even though it was just a small kit, she was grateful. Rummaging through it, she pulled out bandages and antiseptic and turned her attention to quickly dressing Vin's wounds as best the situation allowed.

*******

Sighing, Lucy leaned back on her heels and swiped her hair from her eyes. She was not authorized to treat humans, but under the circumstances, she wasn't going to be that particular and worry about losing her vet license. Vin was injured and needed help. That's all that mattered. She had cleaned and dressed the gunshot wound, relieved the bullet had passed cleanly through his shoulder. Lucy knew there was a chance of internal damage, but for the time being, she just wanted to clean and bandage it as thoroughly as possible with her limited supplies. The first aid kit wasn't exactly full of surgical equipment, but then again, she was certain Tanner hadn't planned on being shot from ambush when he had packed it.

Her frown deepened as she realized that other than a small moan as she'd pressed her weight against the shoulder wound to stop the bleeding, Vin had not moved or made a sound during her ministrations That was not good. She had cleaned the head wound and while it had bled profusely, it had not been too deep. She struggled to recall her first aid training and realized there was always a possibility of concussion. Hating to, she lightly shook Tanner's uninjured arm. "Vin? Vin, wake up..."

He was slow to rouse, finally half-slitting pain glazed blue eyes to peer at her groggily. "W-w-wh't...?" He endeavored to straighten, groaned and fell back.

"Shhh, just was worried you might have a concussion," she apologized softly.

He lifted his good arm to touch his temple. "Hurts," he admitted. "What happened?".

"Mule kicked you in the head." She looked away. "And you were shot."

He dragged his gaze up to her face. "Shot?" he mumbled, trying to remember.

"I think it's Blair. He's up on the ridge. He's got us pinned down here. Horses high tailed it...." She trailed off. It didn't sound too hopeful and the Texan had enough to worry about.

"Chris..." Vin softly breathed out the name and lapsed back into unconsciousness.

A look of wonderment crossed her face, astonished this man would hold onto the belief his friend would rescue them..... Hell, Larabee was in Texas. She gently stroked the long hair back from the man's pale face. "I'm sorry, Cowboy, I don't think he's gonna be able to help ya this time."

*******

The blazing sun beat down on them and Lucy swiped at the sweat streaming down her face. The cool protection of the aspens loomed so close. She licked at her dry lips. She had to do something. She wasn't going to let Vin died here, not like this. And she wasn't about to either.

Easing away from the tracker, Lucy searched through the packs for anything she could put to good use. One contained her change of clothes and personal items. She could tear her extra shirts for bandages, but other than that, there was little of use in her pack. A second pack revealed several cans of soup, two small precious bottles of water, matches, dried pancake mix, and tea bags. She couldn't help, but smile. Vin didn't seem like the tea drinking type to her.

Breaking the seal on one of the water bottles, she lifted Vin's head and let a small amount trickle into his mouth, pleased when he automatically swallowed. At least the bottles would keep the injured man from dehydrating until she could figure a way to get him back to the creek.

The third pack was Vin's and she hesitated before unzipping it. Clothes, toiletries, and there, tucked in the side pocket, a pistol. Lucy broke open the chamber. Five shells. Well, hell, she only needed one if that cowardly bastard Blair got close enough. 

*******

Ezra exchanged looks with Josiah, who shrugged. Chris was accelerating the truck over the open meadow, hitting the high spots and nearly throwing the other three men from the vehicle. As the two men exchanged looks again, Josiah spoke, his deep voice soft. "Perhaps, Brother Chris, a tad more caution or you might lose your four wheeler."

Chris dragged his scowl from the nonexistent road and focused his narrowed eyes on the ex-preacher.

Seated beside Nathan in the back seat, Ezra spoke up softly. "I believe Mister Sanchez is accurate in pointing out the obvious, Mister Larabee. What assistance will it be to Mister Tanner if we wreck here?"

Chris' scowl deepened. Mutiny. But he slackened the dangerous speed slightly. Ezra did have a point. He couldn't help Vin if he wrecked and he didn't need to have three injured agents on his hands either. "Where's Buck?" he muttered darkly.

"I believe our esteemed associate is taking a little more caution with his vehicle, sir." Buck's red Dakota was slowly following, another four wheeler in the pickup bed.

Chris grumbled something under his breath about 'new truck be damned' and steered around a deep ditch, still managing to rattle the two men in the back seat like loose beans in a tin can.

Ezra's quiet lament broke the stillness. "I may be compelled to concur with Mister Wilmington's earlier statement. If Mister Tanner does not require our services, I for one, will invoice him for all the maltreatment done to my body and wardrobe in this rescue undertaking."

"He needs us," Chris ground out and suddenly Ezra clamed up, seeing the narrowed aquamarine eyes glaring at him in the rear view mirror. It would not do to rile the man further. None of them knew how, but their boss and the tracker had a preternatural ability to read each other's minds and if Larabee was so adamant about the younger man's well being, then to be sure, Vin was in dire trouble.

Josiah gave the man behind the wheel a sidelong glance. "He's all right, Chris," he offered, trying to reassure the team leader his concern could be for naught.

Chris glanced at him, his eyes haunted. "I wish I could believe you, Josiah, but I know better...." He turned his attention back to his driving, and beside him, Josiah silently began to pray the blond man would be wrong.

*******

The big black truck slew around in the short grass as Chris locked up the brakes and slammed it into park. "Can't take the trucks further," he pointed out, motioning to the national park lands fencing and gate. He vaulted from the truck and began to pull out the ramps to unload the four wheeler.

The other three men followed in his wake. "What do you want us to do, Chris?" Josiah questioned as he dropped the second ramp into place.

"Stay here, keep your eyes open. Stay in touch." He fired up the four wheeler and backed it down out of the truck bed.

Buck's Dakota pulled in next to them and he and JD climbed out as the men scrambled to unload the second four wheeler. The mustached man looked at each of the men. "Who's taking this one?" he questioned no one in particular.

"Nathan." Chris' voice brooked no argument.

The slim black man shrugged as he quickly lashed his medical bag to the carrier rack and climbed astride the vehicle.

Chris had already headed out through the narrow gate and with a shake of his head, Nathan gunned the vehicle after him.

"Good luck!" Buck called out and Nate nodded. From the look on Chris' face, they were going to need more than luck.

*******

Lucy brushed the long strands of Vin's sweat soaked hair away from his face. He groaned softly in his throat, pulling away from her touch and she closed her eyes. He had faded in and out of consciousness, lucid one moment then muttering things she couldn't understand about Chris and knives and a man named Luciani.

Her gaze strayed to the far hill. She knew Blair was still there. Several times the vet had tried to move for the trees, only to have warning shots fired at her feet. He wanted them where they were, in the blazing hot sun.

Lucy glanced at her watch. It was after six and the heat of the day had peaked. There was a slight breeze, stirring and rustling the leaves on the nearby Aspens. It sounded like rushing water and tilting her head back, closing her eyes, she could envision a rippling stream, cold mountain water.... She shook herself and straightened. Damnit, she couldn't start drifting off. She needed her wits about her.

It was still at least two hours before the sun would sink far enough behind the hills to give them respite. Two hours, but she was certain Blair would not let them survive that long. He would make his move before then.

She had to get Vin to the safety of the trees. Out of the sun and out of Blair's range. Knowing when the opportunity arose, she had to be ready to move Lucy occupied herself gathering the things she could carry while helping Vin. A few essential items they would need: the first aid kit, the water, the gun.... The gun she left close at hand and, stuffing the other items into her emptied out pack, she laid it next to the injured man, within easy reach.

Settling down to wait, the young woman rested her hand on Vin's uninjured shoulder. Not so much to comfort him, but as a comfort to herself.

*******

The four wheeler in front of him suddenly stopped and Nathan leaned hard to the right to keep from crashing into the back of Chris' machine. As the vehicle rocked to a stop, he swore softly under his breath as he looked at the blond man.

"What'd ya do that for?" he demanded.

Chris swung around. "Hear that?"

"What? I don't hear nothin'." Nathan groused, except the sloshing of his brain from all the rough terrain.

"Thought I heard gunfire." Chris killed the engine and motioned for Nathan to do the same. They listened, but there was only the wilderness sounds of nature about them.

"Maybe someone's huntin'," Nathan suggested.

Chris shook his head. "Wrong time of the season, and this is a no hunting area."

They had found the salt licks and followed the tracks back towards Larabee's land. Vin and Lucy would cross the fence line a few miles from where Buck and the others awaited word from their boss.

"Poachers, maybe?" Nathan persisted in being the devil's advocate.

Larabee remained silent, listening and then again, a rolling report sounded on the wind. He swung around, frown deepening. Three shots was the universal sign for distress, but there was no third and with all the hills and valleys there was no way to tell where the sound originated. Grabbing the radio he contacted Wilmington assuring himself none of the men had fired the shots.

The men had found signs of three horses, the tracks almost obliterated by the wheel patterns of an off road vehicle.

"Shit!" He swore, then chewed his lip. "It's gotta be Vin..." He fired up the four wheeler and took off, leaving Nate to sigh heavily and follow.

*******

Lucy shifted around on the hard ground, her gaze locked on Vin. The young man hadn't moved in the last half-hour and her concern was deepening. She had to get him out of the sun and to medical help. Softly calling his name, she lightly stroked his pale scruffy cheek, and after several long minutes, his eyelashes fluttered.

He slit pain dulled eyes on her and licking at his lips whispered, "L'cy..."

"Hey, Cowboy," she tried to smile as she knelt closer to him. "I hate to keep botherin' ya, but doctor's orders." She twisted the cap from one of the water bottles. "I know this ain't cold, but it's wet." Carefully lifting his head, trying to ignore the hiss of pain which escaped his lips, she held the bottle to his lips and he took several tiny sips then weakly shoved it aside. "Maybe you'd drink more if it was tea," she baited.

A weak grin teased at the corners of his mouth. "Brought...fer you...." he admitted.

"Well, for future reference, I prefer chamomile."

"'Memb'r that..." He promised as he closed his eyes.

She pat his shoulder. "You do that, Cowboy..." Easing him back onto the clothes she'd wadded up for a pillow, she took a small swallow from the bottle before replacing the cap. The water barely wet her throat and she wouldn't have taken even that much, but she couldn't take a chance on becoming ill herself. If that happened, Tanner would be totally at Blair's mercy. As it was, she already had the beginnings of a horrendous headache due to the heat and tension.

Lucy jerked upright, inhaling deeply and praying she was wrong about the smell that had suddenly sent her heart racing with fear.. "No....Oh, God, No!" She spun around, looking in the direction of the distant hill and her heart nearly stopped.

Smoke was billowing and swirling on the wind and as her searching gaze focused in, she saw golden red flames dancing along the ground. Jumping to her feet, no longer caring what type of target she made, Lucy frantically searched for an avenue of escape. The flames were rapidly consuming the long dry grass, igniting the low bushes and licking at the distant Aspens.

The vet dropped to her knees, and shook Tanner, begging him to return to consciousness. "Vin! Vin, ya gotta wake up! Wake up!"

He slowly opened his eyes and stared up into her frightened face. Even though his mind was dulled with pain, he knew immediately something was wrong. Swallowing hard, using her for support, he struggled into a sitting position. "What...?"

She pointed wordlessly and he turned slightly to look over his shoulder. "Shit..."

If the circumstances weren't so dire, Lucy would have laughed at that one word. The man was a master at understatement. "C'mon, we gotta move!" She grabbed his uninjured arm and literally dragged him to his feet. He stood swaying as she bent and scooped up the pack, shoving the gun in the side pocket. Right now, Blair was the least of her worries.

Wrapping Vin's arm around her shoulders, Lucy couldn't prevent herself from glancing at the fire as her arm tightened around his waist, offering support as they stumbled away from the approaching blaze. She found herself cursing the breeze she'd earlier been grateful for as it carried the sparks, setting off new hot spots around them. Fanned by the wind, the flames cut a wide path of destruction through the beautiful meadow. The vet was surprised to find herself grateful for the dark smoke reaching for the sky, aware it would obscure their movements.

Even as they were moving, Lucy knew it was hopeless. Vin was weak and only sheer willpower kept him aware and on his feet. She couldn't carry him if he fell but by damned she wouldn't leave him behind either, even if it meant dragging his ass all the way back to Larabee's. Her mind frantically searched for a place of safety. The trees were closer, but if they headed for them, the fire would over take them by jumping the branches overhead. Their best bet was to stay in the open on the grassland, if they could just stay ahead of the flames.

Even now the smoke was increasing in intensity, billowing about them, obscuring the surroundings, and making it hard to breathe. Trying to keep Vin moving, knowing if they stopped he would collapse, she tried to glance over her shoulder to keep tabs on the fire, but gave it up and focused her flagging energy on helping the injured man struggle along. His panting breaths and hisses of pain tore at her, yet he stubbornly kept beside her, refusing to stop.

The smoke was thick and the smell gagged her. Lucy could hear the rushing roar of the fire, hear the popping of the sap boiling and exploding in the trees and the whooshing as it ignited the higher limbs. She silently cursed Blair, not only for the threat to them, but for the irreversible destruction he was doing to the grazing land, trees, and wildlife. She heard the terrified squeals and pain filled cries of several small critters which couldn't escape and her heart ached, then solid reality hit that, if she didn't do something and fast, she and Vin would be like those poor animals themselves.

Tanner staggered, dropping heavily to his knees with a sharp painful outcry. She bent to help him and he weakly pushed her hands aside, "Go.....!"

The young woman froze, glaring down at him as he looked up into her face, his blue eyes red rimmed and watering from the smoke, dark smoky smudges on his face. He was begging her to go on without him, for he knew she would have a chance if she wasn't dragging him along.

"NO!" Drawing strength from her anger, she stubbornly hauled him up on his feet, "Damnit, I won't go without you!"

He shook his head, limping after her as she clenched his shirt, refusing to let him stop.

"Lu...cy...." he choked her name out in a fit of coughing.

"Shut up!" she shouted at him, trying to make him realize she would never abandon him.

The fire was closer. She could feel the heat in the breeze and the sting as bits of burning ash drifted over them. She stopped, Vin sagging against her. There was a stream nearby. She could vaguely remember it. Somewhere in the distance was the old homestead. She momentarily thought of the old cellar, but there was no way they could run that far.

She spun around, scanning the area as a sudden thought flickered in her mind. Fumbling in her pack, she pulled out a book of matches.

The grass was shorter here, grazed down with no trees and, seeing a rocky outcropping a short ways to the left, she steered Vin in that direction and let him sag to the hard ground, leaning him against a small boulder.

"Vin..." he raised his glazed watering eyes up to meet hers. "I've got an idea. Stay here. I'll be right back. You hear me? You stay here and rest. I promise I'll be right back." He nodded once and impulsively giving his smoke-smudged cheek a quick kiss, she turned and ran back the way they had just come.

Several hundred feet away, she bent and struck a match, firing up the low grass. Grabbing a dead limb, she ignited a section of the grass and watched with a small grimace as it began racing along the ground. Making sure of it, she ran through the thin line of flames, yelping when a burning clump of grass brushed her leg, igniting the denim. She took precious seconds to beat out the smoldering material, then scrambled over the rocks to where she'd left the tracker. Adrenaline surging through her veins, she dragged him to his feet. "All right, Cowboy, c'mon!"

He started to pull back as she headed for the fire line, but looking at her face and seeing a small smile, he realized what she had in mind. Giving her a weak grin of his own, he stumbled beside her back through the thin flames and struggled several yards beyond to where the grass was charred and little wisps of smoke still rose in the air.

She released her hold on him and he dropped to the smoldering ground, coughing and choking as the main body of the conflagration swirled closer. Lucy stood over him, her watering eyes locked on the flames as they reached the already burned fire line. With no fuel to feed upon, the flames slowed and while some of it licked on at the grassy areas she hadn't burnt, they were momentarily safe.

Kneeling beside Vin, she dropped the pack and gently set about checking his shoulder wound "You okay?"

He attempted to speak, coughed and ended up nodding instead.

"I think we might be okay here. The fire's going around us." Pulling the remains of the shirt she'd torn into bandages from the pack, Lucy babbled about anything that came to mind in an effort to distract him from the pain as she pressed the rags against the blood covered bandages. "Well, you sure know how ta show a girl an exciting time, Tanner."

"Al-always...aim ta..pl-please" The weak lopsided grin turned to a grimace and he shook his head in understanding when she quickly apologized.

Succumbing to a fit of coughing, his eyes watering as he attempted to expel the smoke that had filled his lungs, the sharpshooter grasped her wrist. "Rangers..." he finally choked out.

"What?" she rubbed at her burning eyes, streaking soot and gray ash across her cheek.

"Forest rangers..... "

Lucy nodded in understanding. The forestry service kept a close eye on fires and once the smoke was spotted, help would be on the way. All they had to do was wait. Settling on the still warm ground, she pulled the lean ex-bounty hunter against her, soothingly stroking his long hair as his eyes closed and he gave in to the weakness of his injuries.

*******

Nathan revved his machine up beside Chris' and finally got the man's attention. They eased to a stop and the healer pointed. "Isn't that smoke?"

Chris stared, then nodded. "Wild fire..." Contacting the others, he quickly relayed the approximate coordinates of the smoke ordering them to report the fire to the local rangers.

"Don't suppose...?" Nathan never got a chance to finish as Chris gunned the four wheeler and headed in the smoke's direction, leaving the healer to follow.

*******

Lucy had made Tanner as comfortable as possible on the hard ash covered ground, the pack used as a pillow. Their desperate race across the burning meadow had started his shoulder bleeding again. Tight lines of pain had formed around his mouth and rivulets of sweat left trails through the smoke ash and dirt covering his pale face. Supporting his head, she urged him to drink, smiling when he swallowed the last of the water.

She'd reluctantly used a tiny portion of the precious liquid to wet a torn strip from the bottom of her shirt, using the rag to wipe the soot and ash from their eyes. Listening to Vin's ragged breathing, she prayed help would arrive soon.

As if in answer to that silent prayer, she heard what she was certain was the sound of an engine. Rubbing her eyes and squinting against the smoke, she looked upward, hoping to see a helicopter or search plane.

Jumping to her feet, her gaze searched the scorched grassland though the thinning smoke, seeing and locking on the approaching vehicle. She went weak with relief and bent to shake Vin's arm. "Hey, Cowboy, the cavalry's here! We'll get you to a doctor now." Regaining her feet, she waved her arms in the air and started to yell.

The sound died in her throat as she recognized the man on the four wheeler. Her face paled and her heart skipped several beats before beginning to race erratically. "Nooooo....!" she moaned out the denial. "Noooo!!!!"

There, leering at her as he dismounted from the ATV, was the very demon who had haunted her every nightmare the last eight years. Rifle slung over his shoulder, Blair sauntered up to them as if he were out for a casual afternoon's stroll.

Shaking herself from the paralysis of fear that gripped her, Lucy moved to grab the pistol hidden by the edge of the pack Vin was using for a pillow. She froze as Blair stepped in her path, blocking the move.

"Well, bitch...." he paused in front of her and without warning, lashed out, his fist catching her in the stomach, forcing the air from her lungs and dropping her to her knees. "Was hoping I'd hear ya screamin' in the fire. It's a helluva way ta die. Your flesh burnin' and fallin' off your bones like fresh barbecue, but no such luck." He pulled his attention from her and focused on Vin who was endeavoring to struggle to his feet. Flipping the rifle in his hands, Blair swung the stock at Vin, knocking the longhaired man back to the ground. "Be patient. You'll get yours, fucker, once I'm done with her."

Frank turned back to Lucy who was struggling back to her feet, dragging in great gulps of air, her face white with fear for what Blair would do to Tanner.

"Let him alone!" she gasped.

Blair snickered. "Awwww, ain't that sweet?" He stepped closer, the back of his hand connecting with her cheek, nearly knocking her out with the force of the blow.

It took Lucy longer than before to climb to her feet, shaking her head in a vain attempt to chase away the spots dancing before her eyes. She swiped at the blood trickling from the corner of her mouth with the back of her hand. Being a vet, she'd been kicked by horses and mules before. The only difference between them and this jackass was that, while they struck out in fear or pain, with Blair it was nothing but pure pleasure.

Her vision blurry, the petite vet placed herself between Blair and the injured sharpshooter, staring defiantly at her ex-husband. "I said leave him alone! He's got nothing to do with this."

Blair began to laugh aloud. "Stupid bitch! Ya know I'm gonna kill ya both..." he teased, insanity gleaming in his eyes.

"You'll try," she hissed and saw the old all too familiar uncontrollable rage beginning to build in the man, just as she had seen and experienced it countless times before.

How many times? How many times had she cowered in a corner, pleading with him to stop hurting her? How many times had she trembled in fear as he later held her, asking forgiveness and promising never to raise his hand to her again? How many times had she forgiven him, desperately wanting to believe he would keep his word, only to be disappointed. How many nights had she laid beside him, planning escape, only to surrender to the all too consuming fear of what would happen when he caught her?

Lucy quailed, knowing from long experience exactly what he would do to her.

But a weak moan from the man behind her ignited her own fury. The gentle Texan who had offered protection and shown her nothing but kindness was now fighting for his life because of this cruel bastard from her past. Anger flared in her gray eyes. Blair could do what he wanted with her and she'd see it took as long as possible in hopes someone would arrive in time to save Tanner.

The young woman's gaze softened as she spared a fleeting glance at the soft-spoken Texan, a deep sadness overwhelming her. It wasn't a sorrow born of the knowledge she was going to die, for she was certain Blair would put an end to her life this time, but grief for what might have been...

What should have been... The old roan pony waiting at the gate flashed for an instant in her mind. Vin Tanner held her heart now, just as she somehow knew he had once before in the distant past. He had captured it with that first lopsided smile of shyness, that bright mischievous twinkle in his azure eyes. He held it as tenderly as if it were the most valuable and fragile commodity on earth and he didn't even know it.

Something inside Lucy told her God had placed the two of them on this earth for each other. They were meant to be together.... What should have been.......

But reality beckoned and her gaze hardened again as she focused once more on Blair. Young, foolish and lonely she had thought herself in love and pledged to spend her life with this man. She had paid dearly for that youthful lapse and was hell bound and determined Vin wouldn't pay as well. She knew she had to stall, hoping the rangers or fire fighters would arrive in time to at least save him.

"Lucy.....don't...." Almost as if he had read her mind, Vin called out to her weakly as he attempted to gain his feet and failed.

It took more strength than the petite woman had ever known she possessed not to let her eyes stray to where the gun was hidden.

"Your hero there ain't gonna last much longer." Blair gloated, nodding at Tanner. "Sonuvabitch's near dead already. Maybe I oughta just help him along. Put him outta his misery." He stepped closer to the downed man only to stumble backwards when Lucy lunged at him, her slight weight plowing into his chest attempting to push him away from the injured tracker.

With a bellow of rage, stunned that the small woman would dare attack him, Blair backhanded Lucy again, the vicious blow spinning her to her knees. Twisting a hand in her long dark hair, Frank moved to pull her to her feet before she could black out. Jerking her head back, he leaned close, his eyes full of rage. "Do ya remember my promise to ya, bitch? Told ya from the beginnin' ya belonged ta me and warned ya 'bout what would happen if ya betrayed me," he hissed.

Gritting her teeth against the pain, Lucy closed her eyes, desperate to forget the promises he'd made to her.

"How many other assholes ya been whorin' around with besides him?"

"Go ta hell!" The vet ground out between clenched teeth.

"One a these days, but you two's gonna be there to welcome me. Promised myself I'd enjoy ya one last time..." he leered, tossing the rifle aside and with a swift jerk, ripped open her blouse. "Reckon your friend there'll enjoy watchin'?"

Controlled by terror, rage and survival instinct, Lucy struck back, but Blair seemed to anticipate her move and blocked the knee she attempted to slam into his groin. Screaming with pain and fury, Frank stumbled back as she raked her fingernails across his eyes, and the toe of her hiking boot connected with painful intensity against his knee.

"Fuckin' bitch!"

The air was forced from her lungs as he slammed her to the ground and with an insane laugh straddled her, using his weight to hold her struggling body still as one hand fumbled for the button on the waistband of her jeans.

Lucy tried to scream, the sound echoing in her mind as his cruel hands grabbed at her. No..no...no..... this couldn't be happening! Nooooo..........!!

Gasping for air, unable to stop the groping hands tearing at her clothes, with a choked sob Lucy sank into the welcoming embrace of the swirling darkness, the sound of a gunshot echoing in her ears.

*******

"There!"

Chris heard Nathan's yell over the noise of the engines and turned to see the billowing smoke and flames in the distance. Ignoring the black man's warnings, he gunned the four wheeler and steered toward the inferno.

Nearing the fire line, Larabee saw a slight break in the flames. Signaling Nathan, he took three deep breaths, holding the last and opening the throttle wide, gunned through the flames. Pulling up short on the other side, free of the fire, but still surrounded by smoke and ash, rubbing at his burning eyes, Chris watched Nathan, sighing in relief when the healer pulled to a stop beside him.

"Damn, Chris...ya wanna commit suicide go ahead, but don't be tryin' ta take me with ya! We can't help Vin if we're dead!" the man lamented, beating at the sparks which were trying to ignite his sleeve.

"C'mon..." Chris eased the four wheeler over the scorched ground, shaking his head at the destruction, praying he wouldn't find his friend's body charred beyond recognition. Been there, done that. He wouldn't survive if he once again had to identify the burnt and blistered remains of someone he loved. The others might as well dig his grave, too, if he had to bury another member of his family.

Certain he had heard what sounded like a gunshot, the healer watched in consternation as Larabee suddenly stopped again, his hazel eyes searching through the thinning smoke. Wiping at his watering eyes, Jackson, too, searched the surrounding countryside, his heart breaking at the devastation cause by a single match. Was that the third shot Chris had mentioned earlier? If it were a distress signal, wouldn't the three have been closer together?

Gunning the machine and shifting it into high, Chris tore across the blackened land.

Nathan, shaking his head, followed as Chris ducked and dove around rocks and still burning trees, praying he didn't have to use the medical kit on Larabee before they ever found Tanner. He wasn't sure what the man had heard or what trail he was following, but he knew beyond a doubt, Chris Larabee knew where he was going and with that knowledge came the certainty Vin Tanner would be where ever the man stopped.

*******

Larabee clamped on the brakes and the heavy machine slid in the ash and died as he leaped from the seat, releasing the dead man switch. Scrambling, he dropped to his knees in the ashes and reached out an unsteady hand to feel for life.

Vin groaned and slit one eye. "L...cy...."

"Nathan, see to Lucy!" Chris yelled over his shoulder, reaching out to steady the tracker who was struggling to push himself up. Seeing the weapon still clutched in his friend's hand, Larabee glanced over his shoulder to the body Nathan had lifted off the motionless vet, tossing it aside as if it were mere trash. He didn't need the tracker's talent for reading sign to know what had happened.

"Nate's takin' care of her. Just lay still now..." He coaxed, grateful they'd found the two alive. Pushing the sharpshooter back down, the blond quickly and gently attempted to check the shoulder wound.

"Bl'ir..." Vin choked out, refusing to obey the older man as he again tried to sit up.

"Looks like he's dead, Pard." There was no need to check for a pulse The dead-on bullet hole in the man's chest was a sure give away.

"Good..." Vin sighed, then attempting to focus red rimmed eyes, he frowned, "Ch..ris?"

"Yeah, Pard, it's me," Chris clutched the unsteady hand the man held out. "Saved yer sorry ass again..." he teased, happy to see a small ghost of a grin flicker on the pain pinched features, to be replaced by a grimace. "Let me get Nathan to check ya out --"

"No!" Vin's voice was adamant. "Lucy's .... hurt...see......."

"Okay, let me check." Chris eased away from the man and moved to where Nathan was kneeling over the unconscious young woman, efficiently checking her for life threatening injuries.

"Nate, how is she?" Anger surged through his veins as he took in the young woman's bruised pale face and torn clothes.

Nathan met his gaze steadily. "She's got some bad bruises, some burns, exposure and dehydrated, but for now, that's all I see. Some smoke inhalation, but I think it's safe ta say she'll be fine once she's rested up." He glanced at his boss. "Wanna give me a hand here? Her shoulder's dislocated and I wanna put it back in place before she comes to."

Holding her steady for the doctor's ministrations, Larabee cringed at hearing the bones grate together, the joint pop back into place and the painful cry which escaped the unconscious woman's lips. Working together, they replaced the ripped blouse, covering her bruised flesh with Larabee's outer shirt.

Nodding at the physician Chris moved back to Vin's side. The tracker had heard Lucy and was attempting to sit up and Chris laid a gentle hand on his shoulder, restraining him. "Hey, Cowboy, Nate says she's gonna be okay. Hope he can say the same about you."

"'M...fine..." Vin muttered, finally sinking back down, knowing Nathan would tend to Lucy and Chris would see that no further harm came to her. "Tired...." he mumbled, closing his eyes as Nathan loomed over him.

He could hear his two friends talking, but hadn't the energy to join in. Releasing a deep breath, he slipped into the soft darkness and let it carry him away from the pain.

*******

The door to Vin's hospital room squeaked open and six pairs of eyes swung around as one to look at the young woman who slowly shuffled into the room. Dressed in a too large hospital robe, battered and bruised, her dislocated left arm in a sling, Lucy hesitated, suddenly feeling as if she did not belong. Vacillating, she half turned to go.

A chair scraped on the tiled floor and a gentle hand caught her good arm. "Here, ma'am, sit down. It's nice to finally meet ya, Lucy. I'm Buck."

She looked up into the mustached man's smiling face as he gently steered her into his vacated chair by the bed.

"We's all leaving anyway. Chris, ya want anything?" He directed his question to the blond man who sat unmoving beside the bed as the other men gained their feet and moved for the door.

Chris shook his head and with another quick smile at Lucy, the man shoved his four friends out into the hallway, leaving Lucy with Larabee and the unconscious man in the bed.

As the surrounding medical monitors beeped and hissed, Lucy's searching gaze scrutinized Tanner. The soot, blood and grime had been washed from his face, making it appear as colorless as the bandage which encircled his head. The blanket was down around his chest and she could see the bandages on his shoulder, the medicated scrapes, burn blisters and bruises on his skin.

Lucy swallowed hard. "I-I-I'm s-s-sorry, C-Ch-Chris," she stammered out loud, petrified to look at the somber man sitting so deadly silent beside her. "I-I didn't know this..." she trailed off, chewing at her trembling lip, struggling to get her emotions under control. She would not cry in front of this man.

Larabee didn't speak, but she heard him shift his weight on the hard chair.

The vet took a deep breath, concentrating on keeping her voice from quavering, "I-I never dreamed any of this would happen, Chris. Ya gotta believe me! I would never have endangered Vin's life like that."

"I'm suppose to believe that?" Larabee's words rang out in the small room, hitting her just as hard as any blow she had received from Blair. "Why? Tell me why I shouldn't think you'd do whatever necessary to protect your own ass?" he insisted.

"Because..... because...." Her breath hitched, "because I would never jeopardize anyone I care about!" she forced out, finally swinging around to glower at the man. "And because I do care about him, damnit!" she stormed at Chris, springing to her feet, ready to take him on just as she had Blair. She'd do whatever and fight whoever necessary if it meant a chance at a possible relationship with Vin.

To her astonishment, Larabee began to chuckle. The sound grew into full blown laughter as she stared down at him, her eyes glimmering with building rage.

"Damn, if ya and Vin ain't two of a kind!" He shook his head. "C'mon, Lucy, sit down and cool off."

Eyes still bright with anger she sat, not from his request, but due to the fact her trembling legs were about to give out on her. She continued to somberly stare at the blond man who shifted around to face her.

Taking her hand in his, he gave her a bright smile. "Vin's gonna be fine, and there ain't nothing for you to apologize for."

"But-but..." she stammered.

"Hell, I know Vin. He thinks he even sniffs injustice, he's after it like flies on stink. Just his nature and well, knowing how he feels about you, I should have known he'd jump in with both feet. If I'd realized earlier just how much he liked ya I would have said something about Blair." He nodded towards the bed. "It's his ass I'm gonna kick."

"For helping me?" she whispered.

"Nope, for getting my mule killed," he responded dryly.

"That was my fault, too --" she admitted, biting her lip.

"Aw, hell, Lucy, don't be taking all the fun outta this. Gotta have something to kick his ass about." Chris grinned. "Fact is, I think the boys are all linin' up to kick his skinny tail."

Her eyes grew large, "What ever for?"

"Let's see, Ezra wants compensation for all his designer label clothing damaged on the way to his rescue. Buck's gonna bill him for all the damage to his new truck racing to his rescue. JD said something about all that time he'd spent digging up info on the computer which led to him needing rescued, Nathan.... Well, you get the general idea."

"Gonna--hafta-- quit needin' rescued..." a husky voice pointed out and both of them turned to see Tanner watching them through slitted eyes.

Chris pushed to his feet and stood beside the bed, offering a cold drink of water to the injured man who sucked on the straw gratefully. "Hey, Pard, you look like shit."

Vin scowled, his voice a little stronger. "Ya gotta get a better line 'an that. Sick of hearin' it every time I end up in the hospital."

"Then stop ending up in the hospital," Larabee pointed out the logical solution to that particular problem..

The blue eyes shifted, focusing on Lucy. "You okay?"

She nodded. "I'm fine."

He said nothing about the large bruise that graced her cheek but nodded towards the sling supporting her left arm. "Guess that's jist window dressin', huh?"

"Hell Pard, Nathan just didn't want her to feel left out. Besides, why should you get all the attention?" The blond teased, laughing when Vin rolled his eyes in disgust.

"Want outta here, Chris...." Tanner's intonation took on a childlike whine.

Larabee held up his hand, shaking his head. "Four days, minimum. Doctor's orders."

"Aw, hell......"

"Start bitchin', I'll see it becomes a full week," his friend warned.

"Won't..."

"Will." Larabee's voice was stern.

"Aw, hell...." Vin repeated again, sinking down into the blankets, for all the world looking like a sorely put upon sulking little boy.

Lucy watched the men, her gaze going from one to the other, as they fussed, amazed at Larabee's easy shift from joking friend and concerned big brother to no nonsense father figure.

The blond man turned to her, exhaling a deep sigh. "See what a pain in the ass he is? Ya sure ya wanna hang around that?"

She nodded, a smile finally flickering across her face. "Oh, yeah, I don't think I'd miss this for the world."

"Well, I ain't gonna hang around and suffer friend abuse. Think I'm gonna go find some coffee. You want some?" Larabee questioned her as he moved for the door.

The small woman shook her head, giggling as Vin called out, "I do!"

Chris gave him a smile and shook his head. "Nope.... Not till Nathan says so. Be back in a bit." Still smiling, he easily side stepped the pillow Vin weakly heaved in his direction with his good arm. Laughter spilled into the room from the men in the hallway as Larabee flipped Tanner off while ducking out the door

Suddenly discovering herself alone with Tanner, Lucy fiddled with the sling to avoid looking at him, feeling oddly uncomfortable.

"Ya sure yer okay, Lucy?" The soft question actually startled her and she jumped self-consciously.

She nodded. "Yeah. I'm gonna be fine. Just glad I can say the same about you."

"What's that?" he motioned to the sling.

"My shoulder got dislocated when I hit the ground. Nothing major."

"That the only hurtin' ya got?" he questioned softly, his blue eyes full of fear and compassion.

She nodded, understanding the man's unasked question. "I'm okay, Vin. Just bruises and bumps."

Vin nodded, silent for a moment then asked, "How did we get here?"

"Nurse said we were brought in by a medivac copter. I really don't remember anything after..." Lucy let the words trail off, afraid of giving strength to the memories of Frank's hands and mouth on her body. She didn't want to remember hearing the gunshot that caused the overwhelming belief Blair had killed Tanner. Lucy had held onto that thought as she plunged into darkness, no longer caring what her ex-husband did to her. Vin had died because of her was the first thought racing through her befuddled pain filled mind upon regaining consciousness. Devastated, she hadn't believed the medical personnel who tried to reassure her the sharpshooter was being well taken care of just down the hall.

Only when one of the nurses had returned with Josiah, the giant man giving her a warm smile, quietly reassuring her Tanner would be back on his feet in no time at all, had she relaxed, allowing the belief to grow. Somehow, she had known the gentle ex-priest wouldn't lie to her, but needing to satisfy herself, needing the peace of mind that required the proof of seeing for herself, Lucy had made her way to this room.

"Ya met the guys yet?" he asked softly sensing where her memories were leading and trying to divert her attention.

"Just Josiah. And Buck. The others scurried out before introductions," she admitted.

"Well, don't believe haffa what they tell ya," he warned, stifling a yawn and struggling to keep his eyes open. "I really--"

The door opened and a nurse entered. She smiled at Lucy. "I see Mister Tanner's awake. Good. We need to check out a few things, miss. If you wouldn't mind waiting outside?"

Lucy nodded and started for the door.

"Hey." She turned back. "Ya stay at Chris' for a coupla days, huh?" Concern filled the soft request.

"Really, Vin, I'm fine..." her voice trailed off at the look on his face. With a sigh, she nodded. He needed peace of mind as much as she did. "I've gotta go out there and get my stuff anyway."

Tanner nodded in satisfaction and she stepped out into the hallway, smiling to herself as she heard him fussing with the nurse.

*******

Leaning her head back against the leather headrest, Lucy let the cool evening breeze from the open window rush through her hair. She drew in a deep breath of pine scented mountain air, glad not to be smelling smoke or the antiseptic of the hospital.

"That distinct aroma can not be replaced, can it?" the man behind the wheel questioned, tossing a look her way.

"No, it can't," she agreed with a small smile. She turned slightly in the seat to look at the man driving. Lucy had recognized all the men from the photo she had seen at Chris' and on her exit from Vin's room, they had approached her, almost overwhelming her with their happiness at knowing both she and Vin were going to be fine.

Chris, as if somehow reading the tracker's mind, informed her in no uncertain terms she was not to return to her home alone. She had protested, but he had pointed out she was still in no condition to fend for herself. He offered to have one of the men drive her out to his ranch and stay with her as he would be spending the night at the hospital. Nathan quickly explained Tanner was not the best of patients and it usually took Chris' bullying to keep him there.

It was Ezra who had stepped up, stating quietly that perhaps, knowing she would want to check on Vin in the morning, she would like to stay in town, and offered her the use of a spare bedroom.

She did not see the exchanged looks between the other men or Buck's eyebrows arch upward in shocked surprise. It was well known rarely did Ezra volunteer anything, especially the use of his home.

However, here the southerner stood, not only welcoming her into his house, but gallantly offering to be at her beck and call, not only as her host, but chauffeur as well. Surrendering to their urging, she had returned to her room and within the hour, clutching painkillers and instructions, was signing the release papers.

Gently taking her arm for support, Ezra had escorted her back to the sharpshooter's room for a last reassuring look before leaving. Tanner was sleeping, lost in the painless oblivion of the painkillers and Lucy wasn't surprised to see the other members of his team camped out in the room, watching over their injured brother.

They had chuckled in amusement when, bidding them goodnight, she had started out the door, only to be waylaid by a young nurse with a wheelchair, spouting the standard hospital policy of having to use it at least until she reached the exit. After a brief argument, Lucy had settled into the device with a disgusted sigh, letting the woman in white wheel her to the door, vowing to be there when Vin was released just to watch his reaction to the same service.

Ezra was waiting, his Lexus purring at the curb. He assisted her into the SUV and headed the vehicle towards the outskirts of town.

She turned to speak to the man, "You really don't have to do this, you know. I can just go home and--"

"My dear lady, not only would Mister Larabee have my rear in a sling, most assuredly, Mister Tanner would as well. I assure you it, it is no imposition whatsoever," he quickly reassured her. "I have plenty of room and it would put everyone's mind at ease, especially Vin's, knowing you are being watched over." Lucy saw the yearning in the quick glance he cast her direction before turning back to the road. "Allow us the pleasure of helping you, Miss Garth."

Subdued, she had finally nodded, then pointing to a Wal-Mart, she requested he stop. Puzzled, but complying to her request, he wheeled into a parking space as she dug in her battered, burnt jeans pocket for her credit card. "Need a few things," she mumbled as she slipped from the vehicle.

Ezra silently escorted her across the lot. Realizing she might be embarrassed selecting the personal items she no doubt needed in his presence, the gambler stayed close enough to offer assistance and far enough away to allow her privacy.

Lost in thought, he wondered again why he had opened his home to this young woman. A home he had kept as strictly out of bounds to his fellow team members as possible. Yet, here he was, almost happily inviting this stranger to his private abode.

He realized one reason why he had offered was simply because she was a young woman in need and no matter what, although he was loathe to admit it, Ezra P. Standish was a sucker for anyone in need. Secondly, she was a friend of Vin Tanner's -- had saved the man's life if the doctors were to be believed -- and he owed it to his friend to look after her.

She couldn't stay at that cess pool where JD and Buck resided. Neither she nor Nathan would get any rest as the physician would undoubtedly spend the night constantly checking on her comfort, insisting she take her medicine and waking her to see if she were in pain and he knew Josiah's place was exceedingly small. Chris' ranch was apt, but was too far out and the same was true for Tanner's cabin. And there was no force on earth great enough that would force him to take her to that hell hole Vin called an apartment in Purgatorio. Ergo, it was only logical he offer the use of the penthouse.

And thirdly, and the reason which most intrigued him, somewhere deep in his being, he sensed he knew this young woman. Studying on it as he waited, he sought to pass it off. Conceivably, she just reminded him of someone he had encountered in his myriad travels. But a part of him rebelled at that thought for the recognition he felt was far too profound to merely be that of some one encountered simply in passing.

"Thank you for your help. I hope I didn't take too long," she apologized.

"Nonsense, my dear, I barely realized we'd stopped at all." Deep in thought, he was actually stunned to find they were once more in the parking lot, the gambler carrying several blue plastic bags containing the items she'd purchased. Unlocking the vehicle and assisting her into the passenger seat, he placed the packages in the back, noting a change of clothing and feminine toiletries.

As she buckled her seat belt, he eased the car from the lot and back out into traffic.

It was late when they reached the penthouse and Lucy, too weary and sore to be much company was grateful when Ezra quickly showed her to one of the spare bedrooms, insisting the luxurious accommodations were at her disposal and she should call if there was anything she required.

With a soft good night, she'd closed the door and awkwardly slipped out of the still smoky smelling clothes. Removing the sling long enough to run a damp cloth over her face and neck, she pulled a new oversized T-shirt from the bag and slipped into it, replacing the cloth supporting her arm. Leaving everything in the floor, she pulled back the comforter and collapsed onto the bed. She was asleep almost before her head hit the goose down pillow.

*******

Lucy could see Blair's leering eyes as he loomed over the wounded man on the ground. The injured man who had only wanted to help her.... the injured man she had grown to care about. She shifted her gaze to that man....... longhaired, dressed in a blue shirt, trousers, suspenders, a leather gun belt strapped about his lean hips, an old buffalo hide coat on the ground behind him.....

She blinked, suddenly disoriented in time as a shot rang out .......

"VIN!!!!!!!!!!!!"

She found herself sitting bolt upright in the bed, her breath hitching in her throat, as disoriented, she frantically looked around the dim room.

A knock on the door a second before it opened slightly, was followed by a very concerned, "Miz Garth?"

Taking a calming breath, realizing where she was, she swallowed before calling out, "It's okay, Ezra."

The door was pushed further ajar, revealing the anxious face of Standish. "Are you okay?" he questioned softly.

The young woman nodded, raking fingers through her long hair as she swung her bare feet to the floor. "Yeah, I'm sorry. A bad dream."

He nodded understandingly. "I must say I would worry about your mental health if you didn't suffer nightmares. Would you like anything? A cup of tea, perhaps?"

"Chamomile?" she asked hopefully.

"I do believe I have that particular kind."

Pulling the light blanket about her shoulders, she quietly padded out into the dimly lit living room and settled on the soft leather couch as Ezra moved to the kitchen to put on the kettle. Speaking softly to the tiny dog who, after several attempts, leaped onto the couch, and settled beside her, Lucy could hear the con man in a distant part of the enormous apartment, rummaging through the cabinets. Her fingers automatically stroked the small animal's fur as she tried to settle her frayed nerves and scattered thoughts, remembering the somehow hauntingly familiar Vin from her dream....

Setting a tray with the hot golden tea as well as sugar, honey, cream and lemon slices on the low coffee table, Ezra took his own cup and, choosing not to admonish his pet for being on the furniture, finally settled in the chair opposite Lucy.

She sweetened the liquid and leaned back, cupping the warm mug in her hands, savoring the distinctive aroma. "Your little friend here was keeping me company."

The gambler smiled as the little dog stared up at the woman's face, " Scoundrel was a Christmas present from Vin and is a most excellent companion."

Her gray-eyed gaze locked on Standish who watched her expectantly. She sipped at the tea, then plunged into the question which had plagued her since awakening in the hospital. "How...how did y'all know Vin was in trouble and to come after us?"

Ezra slowly swirled the tea in his own mug. "That was due largely to Mister Larabee's insistence."

She lowered her mug, shaking her head. "I don't understand. I thought Chris was in Texas."

Ezra gave a nonchalant shrug, "He was. Evidently the conference let out earlier than expected. "

Lucy nodded, accepting the explanation. "Okay, that explains Texas. How...how did he know we were in trouble? I mean, arriving when he did, how did he know?"

Ezra chewed on one corner of his upper lip. "'How did he know'? We often wonder that ourselves. There is this.... this numinous, if you will, connection... a bonding between Mister Larabee and Mister Tanner. Buck -- Mister Wilmington -- swears they have one brain in two bodies, or they're twin brothers by different mothers. I guess all that doesn't matter. However, the number of coincidences between those two individuals is unbelievable. Without saying a word, they appear to read each other's minds --"

"ESP?" she prompted.

He gave her a quick flashing grin. "If one places credence in such things."

"Do you?" she questioned softly, studying his face.

Ezra shrugged. "I have observed it far too many times to pass it off as merely guesswork, or coincidence. Perhaps there is, indeed, some hither to unknown force which unites two such souls."

She swirled the golden liquid in the mug, then brought her eyes up to meet his. "And what do you believe of past lives?"

"Again, science has never proven or discredited the hypotheses which abound on the subject. I believe anything is possible, until it is proven otherwise." He studied her face. "Why do you ask?"

Suddenly embarrassed, Lucy shook her head, not wanting to reveal the strange dream she had just experienced. She didn't need Tanner's friend thinking she was some sort of lunatic.

"You perceive you have known Mister Tanner in another time, don't you?"

Out of the blue, those words, uttered so softly, assaulted her like a physical blow as her face blanched and she gasped aloud. Her large eyes centered on the man as he sat staring at her with inquisitive green eyes. There was no way, no way possible, he could have guessed her thoughts. No way in this lifetime.... She hastily dropped her mask back into place, but not before the sharp-eyed man had noted the effect his words had on her.

She stared down into her cup. "Perhaps," she whispered.

"Perhaps you are not uniquely alone," he admitted.

She stared at him as if he had lost his mind, or as if she had just lost hers. The vet discovered she was beyond being shocked by anything the man could possibility say.

"What do you mean?"

He pushed to his feet and paced the length of the room before settling back on the edge of the chair in front of her. "It is extremely difficult to explain..." He gnawed at his lower lip. "It is rare indeed that seven men with such diverse backgrounds can work so well together, but even more astounding is the bonding they -- we -- share. It is most noticeable between Mister Larabee and young Mister Tanner, but each of us, in our own way, have alluded to a sense of ....deja vu, for lack of a more appropriate description. Perhaps, in some other time or place, we seven were drawn in concert, much as we are now. Mister Sanchez firmly believes we have been together before and will be again. Seven lives. One destiny." He brought his eyes up to stare into her face. "And I sense that identical history in you." He shrugged and gave her a quick grin. "If you believe in such things."

"Then....then I'm not crazy?" she questioned hopefully.

"My dear young lady, if you are crazy, then I must confess I am as well. I have sensed knowing you the moment Mister Tanner mentioned your name. Seeing you at the hospital only intensified that feeling." He smiled. "Now that I have confessed, shall we go sign ourselves into the local mental facility?"

She hid a smile as she glanced down into her teacup. "I would much rather prefer getting a little sleep and checking on Vin in the morning."

"Perhaps that would be a much better course of action on our parts." He took the half-empty cold cup of tea from her hand and moved to the kitchen.

Lucy, sensing the man simply wasn't making fun of her, or being condescending, but that he, too, sensed something deeper and unexplainable, sighed and leaned back on the couch. Closing her eyes, the silent apartment intensifying the sounds, she listened to the running water as Ezra rinsed out the cups and replaced the condiments.

When she opened her eyes again, sunlight was streaming through the curtains covering the patio doors. She was still on the couch, head resting on a throw pillow, a fleece blanket tucked about her. Her gaze roamed the room, finally alighting on a clock which read eight a.m. She struggled into a sitting position and yawned as she brushed the hair from her eyes.

Her curious gaze roamed over the lavishly appointed apartment, taking in the expensive, but austere, furnishings. The room looked straight out of the pages of House Beautiful magazine, a stark contrast to her own always rumpled home. A home she dearly wished to return to as soon as possible. She would check on Tanner and then have Chris or Ezra take her there.

Using the blanket as a robe, Lucy followed the sounds of movement, making her way through the penthouse, Scoundrel happily padding at her heels. She found her host in the kitchen, filling a mug from the fancy coffee machine on the counter. Dressed in slacks and a pullover, the only sign of the man's sleeplessness was the dark smudges under his emerald eyes.

Ezra flashed her a bright smile. "Good morning. I hope I did not awaken you," he apologized softly.

Lucy shook her head, pulling the blanket tighter about herself. "You didn't."

"Perhaps you would care for breakfast? Bagels, tea or cappuccino, perhaps? Anything you wish. Just please don't tell the others, but I'm actually an excellent and accomplished cook."

"Your secret's safe with me. Tea would be fine, but I'd like to clean up first." She wrinkled her nose, giving him a small smile. "I'm kinda gamy."

"But of course."

"Excuse me, then..." she moved for the bedroom she had abandoned in the night and in short order, had showered and changed into the new clothes she had purchased. Pushing up the Henley's long sleeves, she returned to the kitchen, where Ezra had set the table and had tea brewing. The homey smell of warm bagels filled the air and her stomach growled, reminding her how long it had been since she had eaten. She slid into the seat he indicted and waited until he sat down across from her in the small breakfast nook.

"Cream cheese?" he offered, sliding the container across the table to her. She nodded and smeared the toasty bagel. As they sat quietly eating, she recalled a breakfast of coffee and donuts shared with Tanner. Had it just been days? It seemed a lifetime ago.

"Have you heard how Vin is this morning?" she questioned as she sweetened her tea.

Ezra shook his head. "No, but I assume you will wish to visit him?"

She nodded. "If it's not a imposition."

"It would be my pleasure," he admitted eyeing her over the rim of his coffee mug. He slowly lowered the cup. "May I ask a personal question?"

She stopped chewing and a guarded expression came to her face. After a moment, she finally nodded.

"How did you come to settle in Four Corners?"

She sighed inwardly and quickly spoke of her parents' deaths and her need to hide out somewhere after her divorce. Lucy spoke freely, sensing somehow this man was a friend and could be trusted. It rather frightened her at how easily she could talk to him, much as she had Vin. For someone who had lived an almost reclusive life, it was a radical change for her.

They finished breakfast and she quickly rinsed the dishes placing them in the automatic washer.

Ezra disappeared for a few minutes, only to return with a denim shirt in hand. He offered it to her. "The air is quite brisk this morning," he offered as explanation.

She smiled, noting the designer label and slid into the shirt, cuffing back the long sleeves. "Thanks."

He shrugged. "Denim....is not my fabric of choice." He lightly touched her arm as she moved for the foyer. "I would suggest, unless you wish to incur the wrath of our esteemed Doctor Jackson, as well as the rest of the hospital staff, not to mention Mister Tanner himself, you add this to your wardrobe as well," Ezra slipped the hated sling over her head and gently settled her arm in its protective cradle. "I, myself, find it easier to deal with the encumbersome piece of paraphernalia than listening to Nathan's lectures."

Laughing, she tucked her wallet in her pocket and followed him from the building.

*******

The hospital was buzzing with activity and they made their way to the elevator, crowding onto it and riding it to the third floor. The hallway was empty as they moved to Vin's room and pushing open the door, Lucy stepped past the agent to enter. Her gaze jumped to the man on the bed. He was asleep.

Chris, hunkered down in the bedside chair, gave her a weary nod. "Mornin'," he offered softly, straightening with a grimace, all too aware of the backache coming on from sleeping in the hard chair all night.

"How's Vin?" she asked, moving to the foot of the bed, her troubled gaze on the man's pale face.

Larabee raked a hand through his short hair, nodding to Ezra who stood by the door. "Had a bad night. Fever kicked in. They're pumping him full of antibiotics."

"Where are the others?" Ezra questioned, noting the other empty chairs which showed signs of all night occupation.

"Went out to find breakfast."

"We'll stay with Vin if you'd like to take a break, get some coffee, stretch your legs..." Lucy offered, dropping into the chair closest to the bedside.

Larabee pushed to his feet. "Could stand to stretch my legs at that." He wearily rubbed the back of his neck. "You'll have them page me if he wakes up?"

Ezra nodded. "Of course, Mister Larabee."

With a last look at the sleeping man, Chris slowly left the room, the door quietly hissing shut behind him.

Lucy turned to Ezra, with a small frown. "Why did he say that? About being paged, I mean."

Draping his jacket over one of the empty chairs, Ezra settled into the seat next to her. "Mister Tanner has an intense aversion to hospitals. We have yet to discover why. He usually goes 'ballistic' I believe is the term Mister Wilmington uses, and Mister Larabee is often the only one who can pacify him." He shrugged. "We have yet to ascertain that as well."

"I don't blame him. I hate hospitals, too," she admitted softly, turning concerned eyes back to the injured man.

"Don't we all?" The gambler's quiet comment momentarily drew her attention and Lucy sensed he was just as bad a patient as they proclaimed Vin to be.

The soft beeping and hissing was the only sound for a long while and then, with a deep drawn in breath, Vin began to rouse. With a gasp, his head thrashing to and fro on the pillow, his eyes flew open and a panicked cry sounded deep in his throat.

Ezra was on his feet, moving hastily for the door as Lucy stood and reached for Vin's grasping hand. The agent froze, his hand on the door as Vin brought his apprehensive gaze about to lock on Lucy's face, and his frantic motions ceased.

She smiled, grasping his hand tightly. "Hey, Cowboy.... You decided to wake up?" she questioned softly. "Chris said you had a bad night...."

Tanner nodded, swallowing hard. Allowing her to retain her hold on Tanner's hand, Ezra quickly crossed and snagged the glass of water from the night stand, offering Vin the straw. He sucked greedily at the cold liquid, his eyes remaining on Lucy's face.

Replacing the glass, the con man stepped aside.

"Where's... ever'body?" Vin questioned, his voice raspy.

"Boys went out for breakfast and Chris is stretching his legs. Just me and Ezra are here." She nodded over her shoulder at the dapper agent.

"Hey, Ez...."

"Mister Tanner, it is good to see you lucid."

Vin frowned. "That like... lunatic?" he puzzled.

Ezra smiled. "No, sir. It means you are conscious and coherent."

"Why didn't ya jist say that?" Vin groused, shifting in the bed with a weary groan. "Aw, hell..." he muttered.

"What, Mister Tanner?"

"Reckon now Chris's gonna bill me fer him spendin' the night here in one of them damn hard chairs ..."

Ezra hid the smile which crept on his face. "I'm quite sure he will happily add it onto that running tab he keeps."

"Hafta sell my soul ta pay him back..." Vin muttered, stubbornly pushing himself into a sitting position.

"What the hell...!"

None of the three had noted the blond leader's return and he stood in the open door, staring at them. Eyes flashing, he released the door and stormed toward the bed. "What the hell ya doin' sitting up, Tanner?" He swung around to Ezra. "Thought I told ya to have them call me..."

"There was no need." Ezra admitted with a nod to Lucy.

Chris blinked and focused on the young woman who still held Vin's hand. "Oh...." He grasped the footboard of the bed and eyed the longhaired young man. "How ya doin' this morning?"

Vin attempted to shrug, then thought better of it. "I--"

Whatever he was going to say was inundated by the noisy arrival of the other four men. Buck and JD were in one of their "are not--are too" discussions as they pushed on into the room. Josiah and Nathan followed, their hands full of carriers containing coffee and donuts.

"Hey, Vin, you're awake!" JD offered enthusiastically as he punched the injured man's blanketed leg, disregarding the look of pain which flashed across the tracker's face.

Vin rolled his eyes and winked at Lucy who had stepped away, but he refused to release her hand, keeping her close, as if reading her mind and knowing she would bolt from the room at any moment.

"Hey, Miz Lucy!" Nathan greeted her. "Coffee?" He grabbed a cup from Buck and handed it to her.

As if suddenly realizing they hadn't been properly introduced, each of the men stepped forward, giving their names and commenting on how much better she looked than the last time they'd seen her.

"At least she knows how to follow doctor's orders."

His emerald eyes twinkling, Ezra gave Lucy a barely perceptible wink before ducking his head to hide the smile caused by Nathan's comment.

She sipped the hot liquid as she watched the men sprawl about the room. There was a few moments of quiet as they downed breakfast, but it didn't last long as Josiah noted Ezra attempting to work the morning paper's puzzle and offered suggestions, which Buck lewdly corrupted, bringing JD to his knees in a fractious giggling fit.

Lucy shook her head, totally amazed at the men. They acted more like a kindergarten class of unruly boys than the special law enforcement officers she knew them to be. Then she realized they were just releasing the tension of a night spent fretting about their injured friend.

Vin caught her puzzled look and tilted his head in their direction. "Hard to believe they think they can save the world, huh?"

"I heard that!" Buck proclaimed, tossing a wadded up paper napkin at the invalid, bouncing it off the tracker's nose.

"Well, perhaps not the world, Brother Vin, but we did help save the national forest." Josiah rumbled, reaching into a pocket and withdrawing a packet of photos. He passed them to Lucy who flipped through them.

To her amazement, the shots showed the men fighting the fire she and Vin had been caught up in. There were some spectacular shots of Aspens exploding in flames, of golden red flames dancing high in the sky, but she slowed and studied the half dozen at the bottom of the stack. They showed these men, soot covered and grimy, each carrying some small wild creature away from the encroaching flames and to safety....

Lucy pulled her gaze from the images and looked at the men around her. They were most definitely a paradox. "These are phenomenal shots. Who took them?" she questioned as she returned them to the ex-priest.

"I did,...most of them anyway." JD spoke up shyly, ducking his head, embarrassed by her compliment. "I had my camera in the truck and well, when I'd take a breather, I just snapped them."

"They really are good," she repeated.

"Yeah, some really good subject matter, especially that one," Buck offered as he snagged the shots from Josiah's hand and flipped to the one of him running across the burning grassland, cradling a small fawn in his arms, the flames licking at his heels.

"Yes, I can see that. That fawn in adorable," Lucy couldn't resist teasing the friend Tanner had described as a 'ladies man'.

Buck stared at her opened mouthed and the other men broke up, laughing at his expense.

Even Chris had to smile as he shook his head. "She burnt you good, Buck."

"Better her than that forest fire." The womanizer grinned giving the vet a wink.

Vin smiled as he quietly watched and listened.. It was obvious Lucy could hold her own against even Buck. "Hey, thought this's a hospital room." he groused good-naturedly.

"Yeah, don't you boys have work you should be getting to?" Chris pointed out. "Work you abandoned several days ago?"

"Hey, our paperwork is all caught up, and on your desk, ain't it, Josiah? We's just waiting for our boss to get back from gallivanting all over hell's half acre," Buck lamented. "We ain't been assigned anything new."

"Yet," Larabee pointed out dryly. "Why don't ya all clear outta here, let Vin get some rest before the doctor has us all thrown out?"

Pushing to their feet, gathering up and trashing their empty cups and containers, the men all crowded around to mutter farewells to Vin, then with smiles aimed at Lucy, they moved from the room, leaving her and Larabee alone with the young tracker.

"Why don't ya take her on out to yer place, Chris?" Vin suggested.

"You'll be okay?" Chris questioned, his voice filled with concern.

The tracker nodded wearily. "Gonna catch some sleep 'fore they come back or the nurse comes in and wakes me up ta see iffen I need a sleeping pill. Go on, I'll be fine."

"Ya won't sign yerself out, will ya?"

Vin shook his head.

"Give me your word, Tanner," Larabee demanded, knowing the younger man would never renege on his given word.

"Give ya my word. I won't sign myself out," the tracker muttered petulantly as he settled down in the bed. He should have known the other man would insist on conditions to guarantee his staying in the medical facility. Damn man was getting too smart for Tanner's own good sometimes.

Larabee reached to brush his hand across Vin's forehead, frowning at the heat he felt through the bandage encircling the younger man's head. "Gonna send a nurse in to check ya. Be nice," he muttered, adding, "we'll see ya later then." He moved for the door.

Vin slit his eyes to look at Lucy. "Go with Chris...."

The vet stared to protest, not liking to be ordered about, but at the young man's wearied expression and flush of fever, she bit her tongue and nodded, knowing he only wanted to be sure she was looked after and protected. "Get some rest, 'kay?"

He nodded and with a soft expression, she squeezed his hand and followed after Chris, both of them pausing to look back at the young man who had closed his eyes and looked so small and lost in the hospital bed.

*******

The other men had already left the hospital and Lucy sighed inwardly. She liked Tanner's friends, but they could be boisterous and loud, especially when she wasn't used to it. She'd climbed up into Chris' big black truck and settled back, trying to relax, although her thoughts were still on the flushed face of the young man they had left behind.

With a soft mumbled apology, Chris pointed out he still had to stop at the feed store and grocery and she nodded in quiet understanding. Half dozing, Lucy was only vaguely aware when he made the stops and when she finally stirred, they were nearing the turn off to Chris' place.

She straightened and pushed her hair back from her face. "Sorry, guess I was lousy company."

Chris shook his head. "No problem. Figured ya needed the rest."

She nodded as he steered around the potholes in the dirt road. "Appreciate this, Chris."

"Hey, best vet in the county. Gotta keep you happy. And Tanner, too," he added slyly.

Lucy gave him a sidelong glance. "Ya know, keeping him happy might get you bit in the ass one of these days."

He shook his head. "Never happen. Not in this lifetime, or any other."

She started at the wording of his remark, staring at him intently. "How did you meet Vin?" she pried.

Chris hesitated. He was a profoundly private person, as was Tanner, but he saw the concern in Lucy's eyes. He shrugged. "Damn near run over him."

Her mouth fell open. "Excuse me?"

He nodded as he maneuvered the big truck up the hard packed road. "He walked out in front of my truck and I damn near run him-- Aw, hell!" he broke off, swearing as his house came into view.

There, parked next to Tanner's truck, was three all too familiar vehicles. Looking closer, a wisp of smoke was seen rising from the back yard.

As he pulled his truck in next to the tracker's, Larabee gave a disgusted sigh and leaned his forehead on the steering wheel. "I never shoulda give him a key," he muttered.

That statement required no interpretation as Buck and JD came bounding around the side of the house. "Hey, we 'bout gave up on ya! C'mon, lunch's ready!" Buck pulled the door open and helped Lucy out.

She looked around at Larabee, who simply shrugged and followed them around to the side yard.

His brick outdoor grill was fired up, and steaks sizzled, the aroma filling the afternoon air. All the amenities of a picnic graced the nearby table.

"Well," Buck pointed out, with a wide grin, "ya gotta eat...."

An overly filled plate was thrust into Lucy's hand and she was ushered to an empty chair in the shade of the old cottonwood trees.

JD approached with a cold drink and, blushing shyly, placed it on the low table they'd placed near her chair, "Ya need anything, just holler."

Chris eyed Josiah who was guarding the grill with his life. "Ya know, Vin's gonna be pissed he missed out on this," he warned no one in particular.

"I was not aware these gatherings were rationed, Mister Larabee," Ezra stated as he settled down near Lucy. "We can 'throw together another quick one' as I believe Mister Wilmington characterized it, when Mister Tanner is emancipated from his medical confinement. Beside, I can guarantee he would wish Miss Garth to feel welcome and at home among his friends."

Chris rolled his eyes as he accepted the plate Nathan offered him. He should have known, between the five of them, they would have answers for everything.

The food was delicious and Lucy, realizing she was hungry, cleaned her plate, even as she was marveling at how the men managed to quickly pull the meal together.

It was JD who pointed out they had bought most of the prepared food at the local grocery's deli, and the steaks were from Chris' freezer A remark which was not lost on Larabee.

"Damnit, Buck....!" he swore at the fun loving womanizer. "I'm gonna put a lock on that thing if you don't stay outta it!"

"Aw, hell, Chris, it ain't like you're lacking beef." Wilmington waved his hand at the pasture. "Ya got the damn stuff runnin' wild in the fields." He smiled brightly, "'Sides, we're growing boys -- "

"My ass!" Larabee muttered, throwing an empty beer can at him. Buck ducked, and the can hit Ezra's shoulder.

The southerner looked up sharply. "What did I do this time?" He questioned no one in particular, looking around in confusion.

"Nothin', Ez. Just Chris' eyesight and aim ain't so good since he's gotten old." Buck yelled from behind the safety of Josiah's stalwart bulk.

"More like since I hooked up with y'all. Yer enough to drive a man back to drinkin'." The soft laughter behind the words and the twinkle in his hazel eyes was evidence the blond man wasn't serious.

"I resent that invidious comment, sir," Ezra retorted as he pitched his foam plate in the trash. "It is you, sir, who has the extraordinary tendencies to drive a man to serious libation." The other men smiled, knowing the southerner was enjoying Chris huffing up with righteous indignation.

"Kiss my ass, Standish," Chris smarted back.

Ezra turned to study the lean man up and down, his green eyes bright. "Shall I pack a snack? It's liable to take me the rest of the day."

Buck was rolling on the ground as the other men struggled to keep from laughing, but even Lucy lost the battle and laughed out loud.

"Oh, the South shall truly rise again!" she gasped out between bouts of laughter, unsure which was funnier, Buck, convulsing with girlish giggles on the ground, Ezra, with his highly put upon expression or Chris, who was just staring at the man with opened mouth astonishment.

Ezra gave her a dazzling smile, bowed slightly at the waist and tipped an imaginary hat in her direction. "Thank you, dear lady. I do dearly hope so"

Laughing still, Lucy returned his smile with one of her own. She had thought the antics in the hospital were just letting off steam, but it appeared the men had an unquestionable harmonious relationship and were not afraid to have a good time, even at each other's expense. Lucy almost envied Vin having these men for friends. Then seeing the look Ezra gave her, she amended the thought. Clearly from the acceptance they offered, they were now her friends as well.

Later, wanting to walk off the fine meal, Lucy excused herself and with a cold Pepsi, for she had never been one to imbibe, wandered out to the barn. The breeze funneling through the open aisle way felt delightful and the shaded coolness within was a welcome change from the burning sun outside.

She wandered the aisle, checking the horses that had sought the building's coolness as well. Standing hip shot, flicking their tails at pesky insects, they bobbed their heads at her appearance, but made no move to leave. She settled down on a bale of hay and closed her eyes, drawing in a deep cleansing breath.

Funny, whereas other women loved the scent of expensive colognes with fancy names like Obsession and Chanel, she had always enjoyed the more earthy smells.... hay, horses, leather.... Things which couldn't be bottled or sold off a shelf. Here in this homey old barn, those smells assailed her like a familiar old friend and she basked in it. No matter where she was, those scents always brought a sense of comfort to her.

"Ahh-um....."

The softly uttered sound drew her attention and she smiled without opening her eyes. "I wasn't aware Mister Larabee owned Mister Ed," she uttered softly, straightening as she opened her eyes.

Ezra stood in the aisle, very out of place in his name brand chinos, polo shirt, and imported Italian leather loafers. He shifted nervously, very ill at ease. "The others are talking of returning to town. Did you wish to depart with them?"

She shook her head. "No, I think I'll catch a ride in with Chris. He's going back to the hospital, isn't he?"

"Pray try and stop him," the con man muttered softly.

She motioned around the barn. "I was wondering, did you manage to find our horses? The ones Vin and I rode? A little mare named Daisy and a blaze faced gelding?" She had studied the small band of horses sharing the coolness and had not recognized the horses they had ridden.

"Aw, yes. They fled the fire and JD managed to catch them. I believe as we fought the inferno, he untacked them and sent them for home. They were in the east pasture upon our return."

"They weren't hurt or burned?" she questioned, concerned the animals may have been injured in some way.

"No, ma'am. Frightened, but uninjured, which is more than I can say for yourself and Mister Tanner."

She shrugged the words off. "How much damage did the fire do? I hate to think Chris' grazing land was destroyed." She hesitated, pushing to her feet. "Are you in a hurry to leave?" she questioned quickly.

He shook his head. "I have nothing pressing at the moment. Mister Tanner will have plenty of company until I arrive."

She dropped her head. "I know this is totally silly and irrational, but I'd like to see.... the fire damage.... Do you think...?" For some reason, the urge had overcome her to see the place where Vin had almost lost his life. The same place where the demon of her dreams had met his match and found his death.

"I'm sure that can be arranged. Do you wish company?" It was a pointless question as she wouldn't have asked about his plans, but etiquette demanded he make the offer.

She hesitated, then nodded.

"Give me a moment...." he slipped from the barn and with a puzzling frown, she slowly followed.

*******

JD straightened, a frown coming to his young face. Looking around, he called out, "Hey, Buck, ain't that your truck?"

Four pairs of eyes swung about to see the familiar red Dakota kicking up dust as it snaked through the side pasture.

Buck's mouth fell open for an instant, then gathering his wits about him, he ran across the yard, screaming, "Sonuvabitch! You sneaky weasel! Bring my truck back here!"

A well-manicured hand waved at him from the driver's window as the truck continued on.

Larabee settled back as Buck stormed toward him, waving his arms in the air. "Chris! That bastard stole my truck!"

"Aww, now, Buck, he didn't steal it....he just borrowed it. Damn, you leave the keys laying around for anyone to pick up --" JD pointed out.

"Shut up, JD! What the hell's he gonna do with my truck?" Buck demanded.

"If you had looked closer, Brother, you would have noted our well dressed compatriot was not alone," Josiah commented.

"Not alone?"

"I believe Miz Lucy was in the passenger seat," Nate added.

"Lucy? In my truck?" Buck's frown deepened. "So he not only stole my truck, but Vin's woman, too? And y'all think that's just dandy? What the hell they doin' stealin' my truck?" Buck persisted.

"Buck, sit down, have a beer and shut up. Even a blind man could see." Larabee stretched out on the chaise lounge and closed his eyes, his weariness growing stronger.

"See what?" Buck demanded, snagging the beer JD tossed at him

"I would venture Miz Lucy wished to see the fire damage. She no doubt ask Ezra to take her and he surely wasn't about to drive that classic rig of his up there."

"So he swiped my truck." Buck finished with a nod. "Well, he coulda ask," he added sulkily.

"I'm glad he didn't," Chris muttered.

"Why's that, Chris?" JD asked.

"Coz Buck'd said no and then he'd a asked to use mine...." A small teasing smile touched his lips as he dozed off.

*******

The ride across the meadows in the truck was vastly different than the trip over the same ground by horseback. Ezra cautiously steered around the rough spots in the barely visible trace which Chris used in the winter to transport feed to his stock.

Lucy was quiet, her gaze focused on the countryside, remembering the ride out and Vin's company. A small smile appeared on her lips as she thought of how quickly he had put her at ease, removing the constant fear and letting her enjoy herself for the first time in longer than she could remember.

Ezra finally eased up and let the truck roll to a stop. Nearby, Lucy saw the still green branches of the cottonwood and realized they were at the old homestead. She slid out of the passenger seat and moved across the short distance.

The southerner followed, keeping his voice low as he explained the circumstances. "The fire jumped the river, but was contained about a half mile off in that direction. They managed to call in several water drops to this area, and saved that old tree." He pointed in the opposite direction and her searching eyes saw the blackened scorched earth, the leafless trees, and smoldered devastation. The acrid smoky smell still hung heavy in the afternoon air. It would take a good rainfall to clear it.

Her eyes welled. "I never dreamed it did so much damage..." she whispered, heartsick at the sight and knowing how long it would take the land to recoup from the destruction.

"It could have been much worse. It did little damage to the national forest, other than burning off the grasslands. Few trees were lost and, fortunately, there were no homes in this area." Ezra pointed out, seeing her distress.

"Just this old place...." Lucy moved amongst the old foundation stones, knowing how it would hurt Vin to see the place in such a condition. With a sigh, she moved away from Ezra and stood looking across the charred land, remembering the events which had happened. It did not bother her she came close to dying, but it cut her to the bone the longhaired lawman had suffered because of her.

She sadly crossed to the old well stones, scuffing at the ground, kicking up the dried remains of the retardant which had been dropped to curb the flames. Reality set in as she realized out there, Blair had died. He could no longer hurt her, could no longer destroy her life. And hopefully, would no longer haunt her dreams. Funny, even after being married to the man, she could feel nothing but relief at knowing he was finally dead.

Squaring her shoulders, she turned and walked back toward the truck, noting Ezra had strolled towards the remains of what had most likely been a barn, giving her the time and space needed to deal with the emotions threatening to overwhelm her. Eyes downcast, still scuffing at the earth, the young woman suddenly paused, and bent over, examining something on the ground. Actually it wasn't on the ground as much as half buried in it, exposed only due to her kicking at the dirt. "Ezra," she called to the man and as he looked up, she motioned for him.

With quick strides he crossed the distance to bend down beside her. "Are you ill, Miz Garth?" he questioned, noting her pale face.

Lucy shook her head, thinking how nice it was to once again have people in her life who were concerned for her well being and wanted to help. "No...." She dug at the dirt and it was then he saw the dull glow of something metallic hidden in the dust.

"Allow me." Pulling her to her feet, the southerner gave her a teasing smile. "A beautiful woman shouldn't be using such delicate hands to dig in the ground, even for gold." Kneeling beside her, Ezra used Buck's keys to loosen the earth. A strong tug and it came free of the dirt, pieces of the soil still clinging to it.

"It does indeed appear to be gold," Ezra pointed out, carefully laying the item in the palm of her hand, "and quite old."

She nodded as they moved to the truck. Rummaging under the seat, Ezra located a half-full bottle of water and removing the cap, he sloshed the liquid over the small item she held. Several paper napkins gleaned from the center console wiped away the mud and indeed, the item was gold. A small golden locket still held on a broken piece of golden chain.

The cover case was carved into a rose. Ezra let her attempt several tries before taking the locket and forcing open the back. Careful not to damage the delicate antique, he handed it back to her.

Lucy's breath caught in her throat and her eyes widened. There were no pictures as time had taken its toil, but there, on the inside of the cover, was crudely etched three words.

Eyes wide, wetness gathering in their corners, she slowly turned the case to the man beside her and a small smile came to his lips as Ezra read the words. "It seems, Miz Garth, you have been correct all along."

Smiling through her tears, she clutched the locket to her chest and quietly climbed into the truck.

*******

The hospital was quiet. Most other visitors had already departed and even the other five members of Chris' team had departed, leaving just Chris and Lucy in the room.

Vin was better, the antibiotics having battled his fever into submission and the young man was anxious to be released, grousing loudly to Chris at how he could lay in bed at his own home as well as here where they woke him every five minutes to see if he was in pain or needed something to help him sleep.

Larabee grinned at him indulgently and let him rant. He was use to and understood the tracker's attitude toward hospitals and went through it every time the man was injured.

Chris glanced at Lucy sitting silently by the bed. She had been unnaturally quiet since her return with Ezra and he momentarily wondered if the gambler had said or done something to offend the young woman, but quickly discarded the idea. Unless provoked, he knew all too well Standish was polite to the core.

Even Buck's chasing the smaller man in circles around the truck, Ezra easily eluding the larger man's grasp as Wilmington threatened him with death and dismemberment, had little effect on the somewhat lost, far way expression on the young woman's face. Stunned. That was the word Larabee thought would best describe her actions.

Lucy looked as if she'd been given the secret of the universe and was still trying to accept the fact she'd been blessed with such a gift. It wasn't until she'd excused herself and went inside to shower and change that Chris realized she'd been clutching something in her hand.

And she was still clutching it as she sat staring at Tanner. Puzzled, but never one to intrude where he didn't belong, Larabee held his tongue, although he now understood why curiosity killed the cat.

Tanner finally ran down and lay back in the bed, and Chris used the lull as an opportunity to go find a cup of coffee. With a smile at Lucy, he slipped from the room, leaving the two alone.

Vin focused on the quiet woman, "Ya okay, Lucy?" She nodded. "Guess the guys can be a bit much, huh?" She nodded again. "Ya sure yer okay?"

"I'm fine, Vin. Really. Just tired. Ezra drove me out to the old homestead. They managed to save the old tree."

"It's probably survived a lot worse," he uttered softly, puzzled by her demeanor.

She looked up at him, a soft smiling dancing on her lips. "I reckon it has."

He nodded towards her hand. "Whatcha got there?" he pried, noting her clutching the item when she had entered.

Biting her lip in trepidation, Lucy slowly extended her open palm displaying the gold locket. "I found it by the old well. I guess it's been lost a long time."

He reached out, turning the locket to face better light as it dangled on its piece of chain from her fingers. "Pretty." He ducked his head, suddenly shy as he added softly, "I can just picture how it'd look hangin' 'round yer neck."

Her eyes sparkled as recalling the three words within, her smile widened. "I know you can..." She whispered as she carefully pulled the locket from his grasp and enveloped it in her fingers.

She wasn't ready for him to see the words, still wasn't sure how to accept them herself, but Ezra had been right. She had all the proof she ever needed in the three words etched inside the ancient old locket.....

"Lucy--Forever--Vin."

THE END

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