Three Outlaws Cornered Her At The Well, A Cowboy Rode Through And Said “She’s With Me”
…
“Are you hurt, madam?” he asked, dismounting in one fluid motion.
Elener shook her head, still gripping her empty water bucket like a shield.
“No, I thank you.
I don’t know what would have happened if you hadn’t come along.
Nothing good, he replied grimly.
Those are the Tanner brothers.
They don’t leave witnesses.
As he stepped closer, Elena could finally see his face clearly.
He was younger than she’d expected, perhaps 28 or 30, with intense blue eyes that contrasted sharply with his son bronzed skin.
A thin scar ran along his jawline, and several days worth of stubble darkened his face.
I’m Hunter Thornton, he said, removing his hat briefly in greeting.
I was headed into town when I saw the commotion.
Elena Zimmerman, she replied, finally setting down her bucket.
I work at Mr.s.
Browning’s boarding house.
I just came for water before dinner service.
Hunter nodded, glancing down the road where the outlaws had disappeared.
Those men might circle back.
I’ll escort you to where you’re staying.
That’s very kind, but I couldn’t impose.
It’s no imposition, Miss Zimmerman, he said firmly.
I’d be a poor excuse for a man if I left you alone after what just happened.
Elener couldn’t argue with his logic, nor did she particularly want to.
The thought of walking back alone, even the short distance to the boarding house, made her stomach clench with fear.
Very well, Mr. Thornton.
Thank you.
Hunter filled her bucket at the well before securing it to his saddle.
Then, to a leaner surprise, he offered his hand to help her mount his horse.
“What about you?” she asked.
“I’ll walk alongside.
” “It’s not far, is it?” “No, just two streets over on Maple.
” As they made their way through town, Elina couldn’t help but notice how people stopped to stare.
A few shopkeepers who had disappeared during her confrontation now emerged, watching the pair with curious eyes.
“You’re not from Nebraska City,” she observed, breaking the silence.
Hunter shook his head.
“Just passing through.
I’ve been tracking those men for almost 3 weeks.
” Elena’s grip on the saddle horn tightened.
“You’re a lawman.
” A shadow passed over his face.
“Not exactly.
” He was quiet for a moment before adding, “Let’s just say I have business with the Tanners.
” Before Elena could press further, they arrived at Mr.s.
Browning’s boarding house, a twostory clapboard structure with a wide front porch and neatly tended flower boxes.
Hunter helped her dismount, then retrieved her water bucket.
“Thank you again,” Elina said, suddenly aware of how disheveled she must look after her ordeal.
She smoothed her hands over her skirt and tucked a loose strand of chestnut hair behind her ear.
“You should stay inside for the next few days, Miss Zimmerman,” Hunter advised, his expression serious.
“Those men don’t give up easily when they’ve set their sights on something.
” “Are you staying in town?” The question slipped out before a leaner could consider how forward it sounded.
If Hunter was surprised by her inquiry, he didn’t show it for a while.
I’ve got a room at the Dakota Hotel.
The front door of the boarding house swung open, and Mr.s.
Browning appeared, her plump face pinched with concern.
Elaner, where have you been? Dinner needs serving, and she stopped abruptly when she noticed Hunter.
Mr.s.
Browning, this is Mr. Thornton, Elener quickly explained.
He helped me at the well when when I had some trouble.
The older woman’s eyes narrowed with understanding.
The tanners are back, aren’t they? I heard whispers at the merkantile this morning.
She gave Hunter an appraising look.
You’d best come in for dinner, young man.
It’s the least we can offer for helping our elener.
Hunter hesitated, glancing down the street.
I should check in at the hotel and see to my horse.
Nonsense, Mr.s.
Browning insisted.
The stable boy can tend to your mount, and dinner won’t wait.
Besides, she added with a pointed look at Alener, I suspect Miss Zimmerman would feel safer with you nearby this evening.
Alaner felt heat rise to her cheeks, but couldn’t deny the truth in Mr.s.
Browning’s words.
Hunter relented with a nod.
Much obliged.
Madam, as they followed Mr.s.
Browning inside, Eler stole a glance at the mysterious cowboy.
Who was he really? And what business did he have with the outlaws who had threatened her? Despite the lingering fear from her encounter at the well, she felt an unexpected flutter of curiosity, and something else she wasn’t quite ready to name about the man who had claimed her as his own to save her life.
Little did Elena know that this chance encounter would change the course of her life forever, drawing her into a world of danger, revenge, and a love that would burn hotter than the Nebraska summer sun.
The boarding house dining room buzzed with conversation as a leaner served plates of roast beef and potatoes.
Mr.s.
Browning had seated Hunter at the main table alongside the other guests, but he remained quiet, his eyes occasionally finding a leaners across the room.
She felt his gaze like a physical touch each time, sending an inexplicable warmth through her body.
So, Mr. Thornton, Mr. Jenkins, a traveling salesman who had been staying at the boarding house for 2 weeks, leaned forward.
What brings you to our little corner of Nebraska? Hunter took a sip of water before answering.
Just passing through on business.
What sort of business? Pressed Mr.s.
Davis, the widow who occupied the room next to a leaner.
The private kind, madam Hunter replied politely but firmly.
Mr.s.
Browning emerged from the kitchen with a fresh basket of rolls.
Now, now let the man eat in peace.
He’s had quite an eventful arrival from what I understand.
Oh.
Mr.s.
Davis perked up, hungry for gossip, Elena tensed as she collected empty plates.
She had hoped to avoid retelling the story, but it seemed inevitable in a town this size.
The Tanner gang was hassling Miss Zimmerman at the well, Mr.s.
Browning explained, lowering her voice dramatically.
Mr. Thornton here rode in and sent them packing.
All eyes turned to Elener, who nearly dropped the stack of dishes she was carrying.
“Is that true, Elaner?” Mr.s.
Davis asked, her eyes wide.
Elener nodded reluctantly.
“Mr. Thornton was very brave.
” “Recklace is more like it,” muttered Mr. Peterson, the elderly banker who had lived in Nebraska City for over 40 years.
Those tanners have killed men for less than interrupting their fun.
What were they doing back in town anyway? Jenkins wondered aloud.
I thought the sheriff ran them out last autumn.
Sheriff Morris is away in Lincoln this week, Peterson replied.
They must have known.
Hunter’s jaw tightened almost imperceptibly at this information.
How long will the sheriff be gone? at least another 5 days.
Peterson said his deputies in charge, but that boy couldn’t scare off a stray cat, let alone the Tanners.
Mr.s.
Browning clicked her tongue disapprovingly.
That’s hardly fair, Mr. Peterson.
Young Deputy Wilson is doing his best.
His best won’t be enough if those outlaws decide to cause real trouble, Peterson insisted.
Elener, still collecting dishes, paused behind Hunter’s chair.
“Do you think they’ll try something?” she asked quietly.
Hunter turned slightly to look up at her, his expression unreadable.
“Hard to say.
” “But they won’t leave the area.
Not right away.
” “Why not? Men like that don’t like being challenged,” he replied.
“Especially not in front of a woman they were interested in.
” The way he hesitated on the word made a leaner’s skin prickle with renewed fear.
She hurried back to the kitchen, trying to push the memory of the outlaw’s learing faces from her mind.
When she returned to clear the dessert plates, she noticed Hunter had disappeared.
Disappointment washed over her, surprisingly sharp.
Your cowboy said to thank you for the meal, Mr.s.
Browning told her as Elener began washing dishes.
Said he had matters to attend to at the hotel.
“He’s not my cowboy,” Elena protested, scrubbing a plate with unnecessary vigor.
Mr.s.
Browning smiled knowingly.
“He also said he’d return tomorrow to escort you to church.
” Eler’s hands stilled in the soapy water.
“He did,” said it wouldn’t be safe for you to walk alone.
What with those outlaws still about? The older woman patted Elaner’s shoulder.
Very considerate of him, wouldn’t you say? Elener couldn’t deny the flutter of anticipation in her stomach.
Yes, very.
Later that night, as she prepared for bed in her small room at the top of the boarding house, Elina found herself drawn to the window that overlooked the main street.
The Dakota Hotel was just visible in the distance.
its windows glowing with lamplight.
Was Hunter Thornton looking out at the same night sky? What had brought him to Nebraska City at precisely the moment she needed help? And why did her heart race at the thought of seeing him again tomorrow? Elena sighed and turned away from the window.
She had come to Nebraska to escape her troubled past in Chicago, not to get tangled up in new complications.
After her father’s death had revealed his gambling debts, and her fiance William had promptly broken their engagement rather than marry a penalous orphan, Elener had learned the hard way that depending on others, especially men, was a fool’s gamble.
Yet, as she climbed into bed, she couldn’t help but remember the steadiness in Hunter’s blue eyes when he had said those three words that saved her.
She’s with me.
Sunday morning dawned bright and [clears throat] clear.
Elena rose early to help Mr.s.
Browning prepare breakfast for the borders.
As she needed dough for biscuits, she found herself glancing repeatedly at the clock.
“He’ll be here,” Mr.s.
Browning said with a knowing smile.
“A man who faces down three outlaws won’t be scared off by a church service.
” Elena felt her cheeks warm.
“I’m not worried about that.
I just a knock at the back door interrupted her denial.
Mr.s.
Browning wiped her hands on her apron and opened it to reveal Hunter standing on the step, cleanly shaven and dressed in what appeared to be his best clothes, a dark jacket over a crisp white shirt with a simple string tie at his collar.
Good morning, ladies.
He greeted them hat in hand.
I hope I’m not too early.
Right on time, Mr.s.
Browning beamed.
Come in.
Come in.
Elena’s just finishing the biscuits and then she’ll need to change.
Hunter stepped inside and Alaner became acutely aware of her flowercovered apron and the loose strands of hair that had escaped her hasty morning bun.
“I can wait,” he said, his eyes lingering on Alener in a way that made her forget the flower on her cheek.
“Nonsense,” Mr.s.
Browning insisted.
Have some coffee while Alaner gets ready.
She shot Elena a pointed look.
Quickly, dear.
Elena hurried upstairs to her room where she changed into her Sunday dress of pale green cotton.
It wasn’t fancy, nothing like the silk gown she’d worn in Chicago, but it was clean and well-made.
She pinned her chestnut hair into a more presentable arrangement and added a touch of rose water to her wrists and neck, a small luxury she’d allowed herself to keep from her previous life.
When she returned downstairs, she found Hunter engaged in conversation with Mr.s.
Browning a cup of coffee in his hand.
“There you are,” Mr.s.
Browning said brightly.
“Don’t you look lovely?” Hunter stood, setting his cup aside.
You do indeed, Miss Zimmerman.
A leaner thanked him, noticing that he’d trimmed his stubble into a neat, short beard that somehow made his blue eyes even more striking.
“Shall we?” he offered his arm, and Elener placed her hand lightly upon it.
As they walked toward the church at the center of town, Elaner was intensely aware of the curious glances from other churchgoers.
Nebraska city was small enough that a newcomer was notable.
A newcomer escorting one of the town’s newest residents was cause for speculation.
“Everyone staring,” she murmured.
Hunter’s mouth quirked into a half smile.
“Let them.
It might help keep the tanners away if they think you’re spoken for.
” The implication sent a rush of heat to a leaner’s face.
“Is that why you’re doing this, creating a a pretense?” He glanced down at her, his expression sobering.
No, Miss Zimmerman, I’m escorting you because I wouldn’t forgive myself if something happened to you when I could have prevented it.
And your business with the Tanners, she pressed, lowering her voice as they approached the white clapboard church.
What exactly is that? Hunter’s jaw tightened, and for a moment Elena thought he wouldn’t answer.
Then he guided her to a quiet spot beneath a cottonwood tree just outside the churchyard.
“Two months ago, the Tanners robbed a stage coach near Fort Kierney,” he said, his voice low and controlled.
“My sister Hannah was a passenger.
She tried to stop them from taking an elderly woman’s wedding ring.
” He paused, his eyes focusing on something distant.
They shot her, left her to die on the side of the road.
Elina gasped softly, her hand involuntarily tightening on his arm.
I’m so sorry.
She was 19, Hunter continued, a muscle working in his cheek.
Just married 3 months.
Her husband Thomas was waiting for her in Omaha.
“And that’s why you’re tracking them,” Elina whispered, understanding dawning.
“For justice.
” Hunter’s eyes met hers, and the cold determination she saw there sent a chill down her spine.
The law hasn’t caught them in two years of trying.
I’m not leaving it to chance.
Before Elena could respond, the church bell began to ring, summoning worshippers inside.
“We should go in,” Hunter said, his tone shifting back to politeness, as if they’d been discussing nothing more serious than the weather.
Throughout the service, Elina found it difficult to concentrate on Reverend Walsh’s sermon.
Her mind kept returning to Hunter’s revelation.
She understood the desire for vengeance all too well.
How many times had she imagined confronting William after he’d abandoned her, or the creditors who had stripped her family home bare within days of her father’s funeral.
But the Tanners were killers, not merely opportunistic businessmen or faithless fiances.
Pursuing them meant risking death.
As the congregation rose for the final hymn, Eliner stole a glance at Hunter’s profile.
His expression was solemn as he sang the familiar words about heavenly peace.
What peace could he find while carrying such a burden? After the service, they joined the congregation outside where families gathered to socialize before Sunday dinner.
Hunter kept close to a leaner’s side, nodding politely to those who greeted them, but making no effort to engage in lengthy conversations.
“Miss Zimmerman,” a voice called, and a leaner turned to see Deputy Wilson approaching.
He was young, perhaps 23, with an earnest face and a badge that seemed too large for his slender chest.
“And Mister Thornton,” Hunter supplied, shaking the deputy’s offered hand.
“Hunter Thornton, I heard about what happened at the well yesterday,” Wilson said, lowering his voice.
“Mr.s.
Peterson told me this morning.
Said you ran off the Tanner boys.
” Hunter nodded once.
“They were bothering Miss Zimmerman.
That was brave, sir, but dangerous.
The deputy shifted uncomfortably.
I’ve sent a telegram to Sheriff Morris, but he won’t be back until Friday at the earliest.
And in the meantime, Hunter asked, his tone neutral, but his eyes hard.
Wilson adjusted his hat nervously.
I’ve been patrolling, but I’m just one man.
If you spot them again, I’ll handle it.
Hunter interrupted.
The deputy frowned.
Sir, I can’t allow civilians to take the law into their own hands.
With all due respect, Deputy Hunter replied, you just admitted you’re outmanned.
I’m simply saying I’ll defend Miss Zimmerman if those men come around again.
Elener placed a gentle hand on Hunter’s arm.
Mr. Thornton means no disrespect, Deputy Wilson.
We appreciate your concern.
The young lawman seemed mllified by her intervention.
Just be careful, both of you.
The tanners don’t forget a face.
He tipped his hat before moving on to speak with other towns people.
As they walked back toward the boarding house, Elener could feel the tension radiating from Hunter.
“You shouldn’t antagonize him,” she said quietly.
“He’s just trying to do his job.
” “A job he’s not equipped for,” Hunter replied tursly.
“Maybe not, but challenging his authority publicly won’t help.
” matters.
Hunter glanced at her with surprise, then his expression softened slightly.
You’re right.
I apologize.
When they reached the boarding house, Mr.s.
Browning was waiting on the porch.
Mr. Thornton, you’ll join us for Sunday dinner.
Of course, Hunter hesitated.
That’s very kind, madam, but I won’t take no for an answer, the landlady insisted.
Besides, Alaner made apple pie for dessert, and I happened to know it’s the best in three counties.
Elener smiled at Mr.s.
Browning’s exaggeration, but found herself hoping Hunter would accept.
To her relief, he nodded.
Well, when you put it that way, how could I refuse? Sunday dinner at Mr.s.
Browning’s boarding house was always a more elaborate affair than weekday meals.
The large oak dining table was covered with a white linen cloth and set with Mr.s.
Browning’s good china.
The food was plentiful.
Roast chicken, mashed potatoes with gravy, green beans from Mr.s.
Browning’s garden, freshly baked rolls, and a leaner’s apple pie waiting on the sideboard.
The usual borders were joined by Reverend Walsh and his wife, along with Dr.
Miller and his daughter Sarah, a pretty blonde girl of 19, who immediately set her sights on Hunter.
“Mr. Thornton,” she said as they were seated, somehow managing to claim the chair beside him before a leaner could approach.
“Father says you’re new to Nebraska City.
” “Where do you hail from originally?” Hunter took a sip of water before answering.
“Colorado territory most recently.
” Before that, Missouri.
How interesting.
Sarah breathed, leaning closer.
We visited Denver last summer.
Such a rugged, exciting place.
Elena took her seat across the table, trying to ignore the stab of irrational annoyance she felt at Sarah’s obvious flirtation, “And what brought you east?” Dr.
Miller asked, passing a basket of rolls.
“Family business,” Hunter replied vaguely.
“Mr.s.
Browning, sensing his reluctance to elaborate, deafly changed the subject.
Reverend, wasn’t that a beautiful sermon today? I particularly enjoyed your thoughts on forgiveness.
As the conversation flowed around the table, Elener found her gaze repeatedly drawn to Hunter.
Despite Sarah Miller’s persistent attempts to engage him, his attention often drifted across the table to a leaner.
Once their eyes met over the centerpiece of wild flowers, and the intensity of his gaze made her stomach flutter.
When dessert was served, Hunter took a bite of a leaner’s apple pie and closed his eyes briefly in appreciation.
“Mr.s.
Browning was right,” he said, looking directly at a leaner.
“This is exceptional.
Thank you,” she replied, absurdly pleased by his praise.
My mother taught me her recipe before she passed.
You must miss your family terribly, Sarah interjected, clearly trying to regain Hunter’s attention.
Being all alone in a new town.
Nebraska city has been very welcoming, Alina replied diplomatically, though in truth she had kept mostly to herself since arriving, focusing on her work at the boarding house.
Still, it must be difficult, Sarah pressed.
Especially with unsavory elements like those awful tanner brothers about.
Father says they’re the worst sort of men.
They are indeed.
Hunter agreed, his voice hardening.
Men who pray on the vulnerable deserve whatever fate finds them.
An uncomfortable silence fell over the table until Reverend Walsh cleared his throat.
While I understand the sentiment, Mr. Thornton.
We must remember that judgment belongs to the Lord alone.
With respect, reverend, Hunter said carefully.
Sometimes the Lord works through human hands.
Perhaps, Walsh conceded, but vengeance rarely brings the peace we seek.
The conversation shifted again, but Alener couldn’t stop thinking about Hunter’s words and the pain behind them.
When dinner concluded, she helped Mr.s.
Browning cleared the table while the guests moved to the parlor for coffee.
“That Sarah Miller couldn’t be more obvious if she tried,” Mr.s.
Browning muttered as she handed Elener dishes to dry, practically throwing herself at your Mr. Thornton.
“He’s not my Mr. Thornton,” Elena protested weakly.
“Mm,” Mr.s.
Browning hummed skeptically.
And I suppose that’s why he barely took his eyes off you throughout dinner.
Elena felt her cheeks warm.
He was just being polite.
Polite doesn’t make a man look at a woman the way he looks at you, dear.
Before Elena could formulate a response.
The back door opened and Hunter himself stepped into the kitchen.
Mr.s.
Browning, Miss Zimmerman, he greeted them.
I wanted to thank you both for dinner before I take my leave.
leaving so soon,” Mr.s.
Browning asked.
“We’ve just put coffee on.
” “I have some matters to attend to,” he explained.
“But I wondered if I might speak with Miss Zimmerman for a moment before I go.
” Mr.s.
Browning smiled knowingly.
“Of course, Elener, why don’t you show Mr. Thornton the garden?” “The roses are particularly lovely this time of year.
” Eler dried her hands on a towel and led Hunter through the back door into Mr.s.
Browning’s small but well-tended garden.
The evening air was warm, filled with the fragrance of roses and freshly cut grass.
Mr.s.
Browning exaggerates, Elener said, gesturing to the modest flower beds.
It’s hardly a garden to boast about.
It’s peaceful, Hunter observed.
Reminds me of my mother’s garden back in Missouri.
Elaner sat on a small bench beneath an apple tree, and after a moment’s hesitation, Hunter joined her.
“I wanted to thank you,” he said, “for not revealing what I told you about Hannah to the others.
It wasn’t my story to tell,” Elina replied softly.
Hunter nodded, his eyes on the distant horizon where the sun was beginning its descent.
“I’ll be gone for a few days,” he said after a pause.
Elener’s heart sank.
You’re leaving Nebraska City, not for good.
I received word that the Tanners were spotted at a camp about 20 mi west of here.
His jaw tightened.
I need to confirm it’s them alone.
Elina couldn’t keep the concern from her voice.
That’s too dangerous.
I’ve been tracking them for weeks, he assured her.
I know how to keep my distance.
And when you find them, she pressed.
What then? Hunter was silent for a long moment.
“I don’t know yet,” he finally admitted.
“But I can’t let them hurt anyone else the way they hurt Hannah.
” He turned to look at a leaner, his expression softening.
“The way they would have hurt you.
” The intensity in his eyes made it difficult for a leaner to breathe.
“When will you go, dawn tomorrow, and if something happens to you?” The thought made her stomach clench with fear despite having known him for barely a day.
Nothing will, he promised.
But there is something I’d ask of you while I’m gone.
What is it? Stay close to the boarding house.
Don’t go to the well alone or anywhere else by yourself.
His voice grew urgent.
Even if I confirm the Tanners have moved on, there could be others in their gang nearby.
Elener nodded, touched by his concern.
I promise.
Hunter seemed relieved.
Good.
I’ll return as soon as I can.
As they rose to walk back to the house, Elena gathered her courage.
Mr. Thornton Hunter, why did you help me yesterday? You could have ridden past.
Most men would have.
He stopped, turning to face her fully.
When I saw you at that well, surrounded by those men, I saw Hannah.
His voice roughened.
I couldn’t save her, but I could save you.
The raw honesty in his words touched something deep within a leaner.
Without thinking, she reached out and took his hand.
I’m sorry about your sister, and I’m grateful you were there for me.
Hunter looked down at their joined hands, then slowly, deliberately turned his palm to interlace his fingers with hers.
The simple contact sent a shiver up a leaner’s arm.
“When I return,” he said quietly, would you allow me to call on you properly, not just as a protector, but as a friend? The word friend seemed inadequate for the connection Alener already felt forming between them, but she nodded.
I’d like that very much.
They stood there for a moment longer, hands linked, until the sound of voices from the house reminded them they weren’t truly alone.
“I should go,” Hunter said reluctantly, releasing her hand.
“Remember your promise.
And you remember yours,” Elina replied to return safely.
As she watched him walk away through the garden gate, Elena felt as though something significant had shifted in her world.
She had come to Nebraska City, seeking refuge and a quiet life, determined to rely on no one but herself after the betrayals she’d suffered in Chicago.
Instead, she had found Hunter Thornton, a man driven by grief and vengeance, yet gentle enough to worry about her safety, to ask permission to call on her like a proper gentleman.
A man who made her heart race and her carefully constructed walls begin to crumble.
Whatever happened next, Elena knew her life would never be the same.
The first light of dawn was just breaking over the horizon when Alener woke to the sound of hoof beatats in the street below.
She rushed to her window just in time to see Hunter riding away from Nebraska City, his figure gradually becoming smaller until he disappeared from view entirely.
Three days passed with no word from Hunter.
Elena kept her promise, staying close to the boarding house and allowing Mr.s.
Browning stable boy to fetch water from the well.
But with each passing hour her worry grew.
On the afternoon of the fourth day, Elener was beating rugs in the backyard when she heard the unmistakable sound of horses approaching.
Her heart leaped, thinking Hunter had returned, but when she looked up, her blood ran cold.
The three Tanner brothers sat at top their horses at the garden gate.
the tallest one, the scarred leader, grinning maliciously.
“Well, well,” he drawled, dismounting and approaching the fence.
“If it ain’t the pretty little thing from the well.
Been looking for you, darling.
” Eler dropped the rug beater and back toward the house.
“Mr.s.
Browning,” she called, her voice high with fear.
“Mr.s.
Browning?” The outlaw’s grin widened.
“No need for that.
We just came to deliver a message.
” What message?” Elena managed, her mouth dry.
“From your cowboy friend.
” The scarred man pulled something from his pocket and tossed it over the fence.
It landed at Elena’s feet, a bloodied piece of fabric that she recognized with horror as torn from Hunter’s shirt.
“He won’t be riding to your rescue anymore.
” The world seemed to tilt beneath a leaner’s feet.
“You’re lying,” she whispered.
Wish I was for his sake,” the outlaw replied with mock sympathy.
“He put up quite a fight.
Found him snooping around our camp.
Bad mistake.
” “The back door of the boarding house flew open, and Mr.s.
Browning emerged with a shotgun in her hands.
” “You get away from here!” she shouted, raising the weapon.
“Deput Wilson is on his way.
” The Tanners exchanged glances, clearly weighing their options.
We’ve delivered our message,” the scarred once said, mounting his horse again.
“But don’t you worry, little lady.
We’ll be back for you.
Got unfinished business, you and us.
” With that, they rode off, leaving Alaner staring at the bloodied fabric on the ground.
Elener, come inside, Mr.s.
Browning urged, keeping the shotgun trained on the retreating outlaws.
Now, Elener couldn’t move.
They said they killed him, she whispered.
Hunter, they killed him.
Mr.s.
Browning’s face softened with sympathy.
We don’t know that for certain.
Come inside, dear.
We need to tell Deputy Wilson.
Numbly, Elaner allowed herself to be led into the house, still clutching the bloody scrap of Hunter’s shirt.
It couldn’t be true.
He had promised to return.
He had asked to call on her.
“I’ll send for the deputy,” Mr.s.
Browning said, setting the shotgun aside.
And Mr. Jenkins can go to the hotel, see if they’ve heard anything from Mr. Thornton.
Elener nodded mechanically, but inside a cold certainty was forming.
Hunter had gone after dangerous men alone, driven by grief and a thirst for justice for his sister.
Now he had met the same fate.
Deputy Wilson arrived within minutes, his young face grave as a leaner recounted what the Tanners had said.
“I need to organize a search party,” he decided.
“If Mr. Thornton is injured out there, we might still be able to help him.
” “And if he’s not,” Eler asked, her voice barely audible.
The deputy couldn’t meet her eyes.
“Then we’ll bring him home for a proper burial.
” The words hit Alaner like a physical blow.
She had known Hunter for less than a week.
Yet the thought of him lying dead in some remote campsite was unbearable.
She thought of his quiet strength, the gentleness in his eyes when he looked at her, the way his hand had felt holding hers in Mr.s.
Browning’s garden.
“I want to go with the search party,” she said suddenly.
Both Mr.s.
Browning and Deputy Wilson immediately protested.
“Absolutely not, Mr.s.
Browning declared.
Those outlaws are still out there, and they’ve made it clear they have plans for you.
But I need to know, Elena insisted, a desperation rising within her.
I need to see for myself.
I understand, Miss Zimmerman, but it’s too dangerous, Deputy Wilson said firmly.
I’ll take five men with me at first light tomorrow.
If when we find Mr. Thornton, I’ll bring you word immediately.
Elena wanted to argue further, but the rational part of her mind knew they were right.
She would only slow them down, put them in more danger.
Still, the thought of waiting, not knowing if Hunter was alive or dead, was torturous.
“Promise me you’ll look thoroughly,” she pleaded with the deputy.
“He could be injured hiding.
” “I give you my word,” Wilson assured her, standing to leave.
“Lock your doors tonight, both of you.
I’ll post a man outside just to be safe.
After the deputy left, Alaner sat at the kitchen table, still clutching the bloodied fabric.
Mr.s.
Browning placed a cup of tea in front of her, then sat down with a weary sigh.
You care for him, the older woman observed.
You’re Mr. Thornton.
Elaner didn’t bother denying it this time.
I barely know him.
Sometimes the heart knows what it wants before the mind catches up.
Mr.s.
Browning said gently, “My Harold and I knew after one dance at a harvest festival.
” Married three weeks later and had 35 good years before God called him home.
Elena looked up, tears blurring her vision.
“What if Hunter is Don’t say it,” Mr.s.
Browning interrupted.
“Not until we know for certain.
Hope is a powerful thing, Elanor.
Don’t surrender it too quickly.
” That night, Elena lay awake in her room, listening to every sound from the street below.
Each creek of the boarding house settling, each rustle of wind in the trees outside her window made her start with both hope and dread.
Was it Hunter returning against all odds? Or the tanners coming back to make good on their threat? Somewhere near dawn, exhaustion finally claimed her, pulling her into a fitful sleep filled with dreams of Hunter calling her name from somewhere she couldn’t reach.
She woke to Mr.s.
Browning, shaking her shoulder gently.
Elener, wake up.
Deputy Wilson is back.
Elaner sat bold upright, her heart pounding.
Did they find him? Mr.s.
Browning’s expression was unreadable.
Come downstairs.
Elena threw on a robe over her night gown and hurried down to the parlor where Deputy Wilson stood just inside the door.
His clothes were dusty, his face drawn with fatigue.
“You find him,” Elena repeated, her voice breaking.
Wilson shook his head.
“We found the Tanner’s camp about 15 miles west of town.
There was evidence of a struggle blood on the ground, bullet holes in a tree.
But no body.
No body, Eliner echoed, the words not quite registering.
So he could be alive.
It’s possible, Wilson said cautiously.
But Miss Zimmerman, there was a lot of blood, and we found this.
He held out a folded piece of paper.
It was pinned to a tree with a knife.
A leaner took the paper with trembling hands and unfolded it.
Inside in a crude scroll was written.
The cowboy paid for interfering.
The girl is next.
They’re threatening you directly now, Wilson said gravely.
You need to be extremely careful.
But you don’t know for certain that Hunter is dead, Alaner insisted, clinging to that single threat of hope.
No, we don’t, the deputy admitted.
And we’ll keep searching.
But Miss Zimmerman, you should prepare yourself for the worst.
After Wilson left, promising to post men around the boarding house and to continue searching for Hunter, Elina sat motionless in the parlor.
Mr.s.
Browning brought her breakfast, but she couldn’t eat.
I have to do something, she said finally.
I can’t just sit here waiting.
There’s nothing you can do that the deputy and his men aren’t already doing, Mr.s.
Browning reasoned.
The best thing for you is to stay safe, just as Mr. Thorn and wanted.
Elena knew she was right, but the enforced inactivity was maddening.
By midday, she had taken to pacing the boarding house, checking the street from various windows, jumping at every sound when a knock came at the front door late that afternoon.
A leaner raced to answer it before Mr.s.
Browning could intervene.
It wasn’t Hunter, but Doctor Miller with his daughter Sarah in tow.
Miss Zimmerman,” he greeted her, his expression solemn.
“We heard about what happened.
” Sarah insisted we come check on you.
“That’s very kind,” Alina replied automatically, trying to mask her disappointment.
“Please come in.
” They settled in the parlor, where Sarah immediately launched into concerned questions.
“Is it true the Tanners threatened you specifically? And poor Mr. Thornton, do they really think he’s been killed?” Sarah, her father admonished, “Show some sensitivity.
” The young woman had the grace to look abashed.
“I’m sorry.
I just It’s all so awful, and Mr. Thornton seemed like such a fine man.
He is a fine man,” Elina corrected, unable to accept the past tense.
“We don’t know what happened to him yet,” Dr.
Miller nodded sympathetically.
“Of course, there’s always hope until proven otherwise.
But Miss Zimmerman, I came to offer you something more practical than hope.
What do you mean? My sister lives in Omaha, he explained.
Sarah and I were planning to visit her next week, but under the circumstances, I think we should leave immediately.
You would be welcome to join us.
Elena stared at him.
Leave Nebraska City.
Just until this situation resolves itself, the doctor clarified.
The Tanners have made their intentions clear.
You would be safer in Omaha, at least temporarily.
The offer was sensible, even generous.
Omaha was a larger city, far from the Tanner’s usual territory.
She would be safe there, but leaving meant giving up on Hunter.
“I appreciate your concern, Dr.
Miller,” she said slowly.
“But I can’t leave.
Not yet.
” “Because of Mr. Thornton? Sarah asked, her voice uncharacteristically gentle.
Elina nodded.
I need to know what happened to him.
Dr.
Miller sighed.
I understand loyalty, Miss Zimmerman, but Mr. Thornton would surely want you to be safe above all else.
He would, Eliner agreed.
But I can’t abandon him when there’s still a chance he’s alive.
After the millers left with a promise that the offer remained open should Alener change her mind, Mr.s.
Browning found her standing at the kitchen window, staring out at the gathering dusk.
Dr.
Miller is right, you know, the land lady said softly.
You’d be safer in Omaha.
I know, Elena admitted.
But I can’t explain it, Mr.s.
Browning.
Something inside me says Hunter is still alive.
and if there’s even the slightest chance I have to stay.
Mr.s.
Browning studied her for a long moment, then nodded.
Then we’ll face whatever comes together.
But promise me you won’t do anything foolish.
I promise, Elena said, though even as the words left her mouth, an idea was forming in her mind.
An idea that Mr.s.
Browning would certainly consider foolish, perhaps even dangerous.
But if Hunter was alive and injured somewhere beyond the reach of Deputy Wilson’s search party, Elena couldn’t simply wait and hope.
She needed to act.
The next morning, Elena rose before dawn.
She dressed in her simplest skirt and blouse, pulling a shawl around her shoulders despite the summer warmth.
In a small bag she packed bread, cheese, a water flask, and the small knife she used for peeling vegetables in the kitchen.
Mr.s.
Browning was still asleep as a leaner crept down the back stairs and out through the garden.
The deputy Wilson had posted outside the boarding house was dozing in a chair on the front porch, his hat pulled low over his eyes.
Elena’s heart pounded as she slipped through the garden gate and made her way to the livery stable at the edge of town.
Mr. Hayes, the stable master, was already up tending to the horses.
Miss Zimmerman, he greeted her with surprise.
You’re about early.
I need to rent a horse, Mr. Hayes, she said, trying to sound more confident than she felt.
The stable master frowned.
Deputy Wilson said you weren’t to leave town.
said it wasn’t safe.
“It’s important,” Alina insisted.
“Please, I wouldn’t ask if it weren’t absolutely necessary.
” “Hay studied her face,” then sighed.
“You’re going looking for that Thornton fella, ain’t you?” The leaner didn’t deny it.
“The search party didn’t go far enough.
He could be out there injured, unable to make it back to town.
” or he could be exactly where the Tanners want you to be alone and unprotected, Hayes countered.
Those men are dangerous, Miss Zimmerman.
They’ve killed before and won’t hesitate to do so again.
I understand the risk, Eliner said quietly.
But I have to try.
Wouldn’t you do the same for someone you cared about? The question gave the stable master pause.
After a long moment, he nodded reluctantly.
Let me at least give you my gentlest mare and a pistol.
A pistol? Elena repeated alarmed.
I don’t know how to use one.
It’s simple enough, Hayes said, leading a dappled gray mare from her stall.
Point and pull the trigger.
With any luck, you won’t need it, but I’ll feel better knowing you have it.
As Hayes saddled the mayor and showed a leaner how to handle the small revolver, the eastern sky began to lighten.
Soon the town would be awake and her absence noticed.
The Tanner’s camp was west of town, Hayes told her, helping her mount.
About 15 mi, according to what I heard, follow the creek that runs behind the church.
It’ll lead you to where the deputy found their camp.
Elena tucked the revolver into her bag with shaking hands.
Thank you, Mr. Hayes.
The stable master’s weathered face creased with concern.
Be careful, Miss Zimmerman.
And if you find any sign of trouble, you turn right around and come back.
Promise me.
I promise, she said, though they both knew it was a promise she might not be able to keep.
As Elena rode out of Nebraska City, the sun was just cresting the horizon, casting long shadows across the rolling prairie.
She had never ventured this far from town alone, and the vastness of the landscape was both beautiful and intimidating.
She followed the creek as Hayes had instructed, keeping her eyes fixed on the western horizon.
15 mi seemed an impossible distance on horseback, but Elener was determined.
Every hoofbeat carried her further from safety and potentially closer to Hunter.
The morning grew warm as the sun climbed higher.
Elener stopped once to rest the mare and drink from her water flask, scanning the landscape for any sign of movement.
The prairie seemed empty, but she couldn’t shake the feeling of being watched.
By midday, the creek had narrowed, winding through increasingly rugged terrain.
Stands of cottonwood trees provided occasional shade, and in the distance, low hills broke the flatness of the prairie.
It was near one such stand of trees that Alaner first noticed something unusual, a flock of circling birds, their dark shapes wheeling against the blue sky.
Scavengers, her mind supplied with a chill, urging the mayor forward, Elena approached cautiously.
As she drew closer, she could see signs of recent human presence of fire pit with cold ashes, discarded food tins, trampled grass where horses had been tethered.
This must be the abandoned camp Deputy Wilson had found a leaner dismounted, tying the mayor to a tree branch.
Her heart pounded as she surveyed the site.
There was dried blood on the ground near the fire pit, just as Wilson had described.
A tree at the edge of the clearing bore bullet holes in its trunk.
“Hunter,” she called tentatively, her voice sounding small in the vastness.
“Hunter, are you here?” Only silence answered her.
Elaner moved methodically through the camp, searching for any clue to what had happened or where Hunter might have gone if he had been able to leave under his own power.
She found empty whiskey bottles, more bullet casings, and then partially hidden beneath a fallen branch, a man’s hat, Hunter’s hat.
Elaner picked it up with trembling hands.
The brim was stained with dried blood, and there was a bullet hole through the crown.
Her stomach lurched at the implication.
“No,” she whispered.
“No, please.
” A twig snapped behind her and Elena whirled around clutching the hat to her chest.
At the edge of the clearing stood a figure tall, broadshouldered, leaning heavily against a tree.
Elener.
The figure croked, his voice rough with disbelief.
Elener’s heart stopped, then raced.
Hunter.
He took an unsteady step forward, and Elener could finally see him clearly.
His face was bruised, a gash across his forehead crusted with dried blood.
His shirt was torn and bloodied, one arm held protectively against his side.
But he was alive.
With a cry, Elena ran to him, reaching him just as his strength seemed to give out.
He sagged against her, his weight nearly bringing them both to the ground.
“You’re alive,” she breathed, helping him to sit against the tree.
The tanners said they’d killed you.
They showed me your shirt with blood.
Almost did.
Hunter managed.
His breathing labored.
Shot me.
Left me for dead.
Been trying to make it back to town.
Alaner quickly retrieved her water flask, helping him drink.
You’re hurt badly.
We need to get you to Dr.
Miller.
Hunter shook his head weakly.
Tanners might still be around.
Too dangerous for you.
I’m not leaving you here, Elena said firmly, fear giving way to determination.
Can you ride? Not sure.
He attempted to straighten and winced in pain.
Bullet grazed my side, lost a lot of blood, but I think it missed anything vital.
A leaner helped him remove his tattered shirt to examine the wound.
A deep furrow ran along his right side, the flesh angry and red, but no longer actively bleeding.
She used her water to clean it as best she could, then tore strips from her pedicote to bind it.
“What were you thinking coming out here alone?” Hunter asked as she worked, his blue eyes clouded with pain, but fixed intently on her face.
I was thinking I couldn’t bear it if you died alone out here, Elena replied honestly.
Not when I just found you.
Something flickered in Hunter’s expression.
Surprise, followed by a warmth that had nothing to do with fever.
You shouldn’t have risked yourself for me.
You risked yourself for me at the well, she countered.
And again by going after the tanners.
That’s different.
Why? Because you’re a man and I’m a woman.
Despite his pain, Hunter’s mouth curved into a slight smile.
“Because I’ve been hunting men like the Tanners for years, I knew the risks.
” “So did I,” Elena said simply, finishing the bandage.
“Now we need to get you on that horse and back to town before dark.
” “With considerable effort and not a few pained groans from Hunter, Elena managed to help him onto the mayor’s back.
She climbed up behind him, one arm wrapped around his waist to keep him steady, the other holding the res.
We’ll take it slow, she assured him, urging the mayor into a walk.
Just lean back against me if you need to.
As they made their way back toward Nebraska City, Hunter drifted in and out of consciousness, occasionally mumbling words a leaner couldn’t quite catch.
She kept him talking as much as possible, afraid that if he fell completely silent, she might lose him.
“Tell me about Hannah,” she prompted when his head began to lull forward.
“What was she like?” Hunter stirred, straightening slightly.
“Stubborn,” he said, his voice faint but clear.
“Like you.
” “Brave, too brave for her own good.
Is that why she tried to stop the tanners from taking that woman’s ring?” Yes, always fighting for others.
Hunter’s voice strengthened as he spoke of his sister.
She was the best of us.
Made me promise to look after Thomas if anything happened to her.
Seems she knew the risk she was taking even then.
And did you look after Thomas? Hunter was quiet for a moment.
I tried, but after Hannah died, he changed.
Became reckless, bent on revenge.
Last I heard, he was tracking the Tanners himself further north.
Elena tightened her grip around Hunter’s waist as the mayor navigated a rocky patch of ground.
Is that why you’re really after them? For Thomas? Partly, Hunter admitted, but mostly for Hannah and for all the others they’ve hurt.
Someone has to stop them.
The law has failed, Hunter finished for her.
The Tanners have been raiding and killing across three territories for years.
Marshall’s office has warrants, but they always slip away.
Elina couldn’t argue with his logic, but the thought of Hunter continuing his dangerous pursuit made her heart constrict with fear.
And now, will you still go after them once you’re healed? Hunter was silent for so long that Alaner thought he might have lost consciousness again.
Finally, he said, “I don’t know.
When I rode out of town 4 days ago, I was certain of my path now.
” He didn’t finish the thought, but a leaner felt his hand cover hers where it rested against his abdomen.
The sun was low in the sky by the time the outskirts of Nebraska City came into view.
Elena felt Hunter sag with relief against her.
“Made it,” he murmured.
Yes, she agreed, fighting back tears of exhaustion and gratitude.
We made it.
They were spotted by a farmand as they approached town, who ran ahead to alert Deputy Wilson.
By the time Alaner guided the tired mayor onto the main street, a small crowd had gathered, including the deputy, Dr.
Miller, and Mr.s.
Browning, whose expression flickered from relief to dismay to anger when she saw a leaner.
Thank God,” the landlady exclaimed as doctor.
Miller hurried forward to help Hunter dismount.
“We’ve been beside ourselves with worry.
” Deputy Wilson helped a leaner down from the horse, his young face stern.
“Miss Zimmerman, what you did was incredibly dangerous and directly against my instructions.
” “Yes, it was.
” Elena agreed, too exhausted to argue.
and I’d do it again.
Hunter was dying out there.
The deputy’s expression softened slightly.
You’re fortunate you didn’t encounter the Tanners.
They were spotted near the creek this morning by one of my search parties.
Elena’s blood ran cold at how close she might have come to the outlaws.
Are they still searching for them? Yes, with reinforcements from Lincoln, Wilson confirmed.
Sheriff Morris returned early when he heard what happened.
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