Go West ~ Section I

By D. Morgan

Section I, Next Section

Go West

Posted on Tuesday, 25 February 2003,

It is a truth universally acknowledged that when two men agree to meet on the street at sundown, only one of them will still be standing when the gun smoke clears.

Small clouds of dust rose up from the street beneath his boots and his spurs jangled softly with every deliberate step he took toward the center of town. He tugged the brim of his hat lower on his brow. Glancing left and then right, he carefully scanned his surroundings. Every shutter had been closed and every door locked tight. The entire stretch of Main Street was still, abandoned, and silent.

He paused to stretch his tense shoulders and to contemplate the situation he was now facing. He had no choice. There was no other option. Soon, he would either be free of his nemesis and have secured the safety and prosperity of many people or he would be dead. It was a sobering thought, but he had made his decision.

Still, he felt utterly alone as he continued walking toward his destiny. The cold hard feel of the twin nickel-plated Colt revolvers resting in his gun belt gave him some sense of security. He knew without a doubt that he could keep a clear head and steady hand . . . but then so could his adversary.

He halted in front of the town hall and drew in a deep breath. The sun completed its fiery show and sank beneath the horizon as he watched in awe. Shadows lengthened, dusk settled, and he waited in the timeless void.

The swing doors of the saloon opened with a rush and instantly the calm was shattered.

Approaching footsteps echoed from the wooden boardwalk. A dark figure materialized from the shadows and stepped into the street.

It was time.

The two men acknowledged each other with austere nods and steely glances. Coats were pushed back and holstered guns were revealed. The two men exchanged nods again and their guns jerked up.

Gun barrels flashed with fire, shots reverberated in the still air, gun smoke rose, blood spilled, and one body slumped to the dusty street.

Chapter 1

Two horses strained in their harnesses as they pulled the Denver stage southwest following a dry riverbed. The driver urged the team forward as the stage neared the end of its trip. To the west the Rocky Mountains towered with their lofty snow-capped peaks and to the east the rolling plains extended as far as the eye could see.

Within the stage two figures sat opposite each other bracing themselves as the stage bumped and jolted across the open prairie. The young woman was slumped in a heaving pile of frothy orange feathers, but the young man was practically bouncing on the seat, his blue eyes glowing with the excitement.

"Isn't it beautiful, Caroline?", the man gushed as he kept his attention glued to landscape that was rushing past.

All he received was a low moan in response. However, this lack of enthusiasm from the orange lifeless lump did nothing to dampen his soaring spirits.

"There is so much space and such an unspoiled beauty. You know, Caro, it really reminds me of an ocean with all the ups and downs. Waves on a grass ocean! And the mountains I never imagined that they would be so immense. They are magnificent. Oh, I hope we get to meet some Indians! Real cowboys too! What an adventure! I am sure that...."

At this point the man's exuberant discourse was abruptly halted. The young lady's head had jolted up and he was pierced by an icy glare from a pair of dark eyes.

"Charles, would you please desist from your mindless ramblings! I have a fierce headache from this dreadful vehicle and your unending discourse on the wonders of the West is certainly not helping matters! Honestly! Sometimes you have the self-control of a two-year old."

"Sorry, Caroline, I just get so excited," Charles blushed with embarrassment.

"How can you be excited about setting up a practice in such god-forsaken place? It is so barren. Dirt and filth penetrate everything. No signs of civilization anywhere. There will be no polite company at all. There are only criminals, drunks, and savages. Oh, and all the vicious, bloodthirsty beasts like bears and mountain lions. I am sure that we shall perish within a week."

At this point, Charles settled back against the cushion to endure his turn of listening to his sibling's ramblings.

"It's your fault that we are in this desert wasteland! You could easily have joined a respectable medical practice in Boston or Philadelphia, but no that wasn't good enough. You wanted to be self-reliant and stand on your own two feet. You were determined to come out here to have your "western experience" and you dragged me with you! There will be no society worthy of my stature....and....and....how will I ever find a rich man to marry? What a selfish, unfeeling brother you are!"

By this point, Caroline was wailing loudly and had managed to work herself into a fit of hysteria. She vigorously rubbed her nose with a hankie, crossed her arms, and began her silent routine. Caroline thought that this stoic behavior punished her brother, but really he rejoiced in his temporary freedom from her sharp tongue and bad temper. Charles stared out the window and struggled to contain the mirth that threatened to come bubbling out in a laugh as the stage continued to rumble towards their destination.

A small bell tinkled as the door of the general store swept open. A woman stood behind the counter weighing out sugar, but she turned to greet her customers. Two of the girls immediately rushed to the new display of fall bonnets while the other girl sedately proceeded to the books on the far wall. The mother tottered over to the counter.

"Good Afternoon, Mrs. Bennet. It has been awhile since your last visit into town."

"Hello, Mrs. Lucas. Indeed, it has been too long. Unfortunately, my Thomas insisted on setting up the ranch near that bend in the river. He said we needed to be close to water. What a notion! Surely our well provides enough water to..."

Mrs. Lucas anticipated Mrs. Bennet's long-winded narrative and brought it to a satisfactory halt.

"What can I get for you today Mrs. Bennet?"

"Well, let me see...a twenty pound bag of your brown sugar, some coffee, and Lydia will be needing an entirely new wardrobe in the latest fashions. Mr. Foster has just given her a job working in his cafe. What do you say to that, Mrs. Lucas? What a bit of luck! She must look perfect! With all the men she will be around surely she will find herself a husband."

"Well, let me show you what we have, Mrs. Bennet."

An hour later Mrs. Lucas was exhausted, her patience was gone, and she felt like screaming in frustration. "Why couldn't Jane or Lizzy have come along to help control their mother?" Mrs. Lucas wondered.

"Will that be all for today, Mrs. Bennet?" Mrs. Lucas asked hopefully.

"That's all for the purchases, but I wondered if you would mind sharing some of the Meryton news. You know how I like news, Mrs. Lucas!"

What she really likes is cruel gossip, thought Mrs. Lucas. Mrs. Lucas bit her tongue and managed to continue cheerfully.

"Well, Lucy Steele finally had her baby. Colonel Brandon out at the fort thinks that peace has finally been secured with the local Indians. That's about all, Mrs. Bennet."

"Surely, something a little juicier has happened?"

"Capital, capital," a low voice chuckled.

Both women turned to see Mr. Lucas, owner of the store and Meryton's mayor, enter from the back of the shop.

"Mrs. Bennet, I do have some news for you," Mr. Lucas said with a smile.

"What is it, Mr. Lucas?" Mrs. Bennet was practically quivering in anticipation.

Mrs. Lucas tried to hush her husband with a telling look, but he was either completely dense or simply ignoring her.

"Well Mrs. Bennet, we are expecting a new arrival in Meryton this afternoon. Indeed, Meryton's first doctor will arrive on the 4 o'clock stage with his sister."

"A doctor? Well, that is not news. Who cares about a stuffy old man with draughts and a black bag?"

"Mrs. Bennet, I understand that Dr. Bingley is fresh out of medical school. He comes from a respectable family in Philadelphia. He wrote me earlier this year about his desire to set up a practice here in the West. So you see Mrs. Bennet, I think your preconceptions of Dr. Bingley will prove to be quite incorrect." Mr. Lucas emphasized his point with a superior smirk.

"Oh heavens, a rich young doctor from back east. What a fine thing for my girls! Surely one of them will catch his fancy. Mr. Lucas you are so kind for sharing your delightful news. I am all aflutter! You say he arrives on the four o'clock stage. That is unlucky. We have to be back at the ranch so Mr. Bennet can oversee the evening chores. I don't know why Lizzy can't handle that! I am quite put out...."

At this point in her monologue Mrs. Bennet began ambling toward the door muttering under her breath and matching her daughters with Dr. Bingley in her head.

As soon as the door closed, a furious Mrs. Lucas turned to confront her dolt of a husband.

"William, did you never consider that I had hopes for Charlotte and Dr. Bingley? Now you have gone and ruined it all. You know our daughter is rather a plain girl. She will be invisible beside the showy beauty of the Bennet girls. You could at least have given your daughter a head start at securing Dr. Bingley's affections. Now with Mrs. Bennet on his tail no one else will be able to get near him! "

Mrs. Lucas continued berating her husband, whacked him on the head, and stormed into the back room.

At promptly four o'clock the Denver stage rolled down the main street of Meryton and halted in front of the town hall. Both Charles and Caroline were surprised to see that a crowd had gathered to greet them. However, openly staring was probably a more accurate description of the people's behavior.

The driver opened the door to the stage and Dr. Bingley stepped out into the afternoon sunshine. He could almost swear that he could hear people in the crowd oohing and ahhing over his appearance. Charles stood there feeling foolish and uncomfortable until Caroline reminded him of her presence with a firm tap on his shoulder. Charles reached for Caroline's hand and assisted her out of the stage.

Instead of feeling awkward like her brother, Caroline soaked in the joy of being the center of attention. Maybe living here won't be so bad after all, Caroline mused silently. The crowd merely stood watching the newcomers in silence.

Finally, a large cheerful man approached Charles and clasped his hand. "Welcome to our little town, Dr. Bingley. We are so glad to have you here. I am William Lucas, mayor of Meryton."

"I am delighted to meet you Mr. Lucas. I am already enchanted by Meryton's charm and the friendliness of her citizens."

"Won't you introduce me to your bewitching sister, Dr. Bingley?"

"Certainly, Mr. Lucas. This is my sister Caroline."

"Pleased to meet you, Miss Bingley."

"An honor I am sure," Caroline returned haughtily.

"Capital, Capital! Here let me show you to the office and house that you arranged to rent."

"You are too kind, Mr. Lucas."

Caroline took Charles' arm and they allowed Mr. Lucas to lead them down the boardwalk of Main Street. As the Bingleys left, the crowd dispersed into small groups to discuss the new arrivals. Eventually, everyone headed home for supper. The Bingley's had arrived and the excitement of the day was over.

Chapter 2

Posted on Sunday, 9 March 2003

The sky lightened as the sun began to peep over the horizon. The wind gently swept across the prairie grass. Birds began to tweet their morning anthems and cattle lowed softly as they bent their heads to graze. The sound of galloping hooves broke the calm.

"Whoa there, Austen," commanded a soft feminine voice.

The magnificent chestnut mare responded immediately and drew to a stop. A slender, lithe figure swung lightly to the ground. With an outstretched hand, she offered a sugar cube which was quickly snuffled down by the horse and then turned to admire the sun's entrance to a new day. The immense sky was blended and streaked like a painter's palette. The beautiful scene lasted for a few minutes and then the sun quickly began its journey across the heavens.

The rider remounted and spurred the horse back across the open prairie.

The sun was spreading its warmth over the earth when Austen halted to in the dusty stable yard. A ranch hand took the reigns from the young woman and led her mount into the stable for her morning feed. The woman dusted off her clothes and began to stroll briskly toward the main house, stopping momentarily at the well to get a cool drink. She could hear the cowhands joking down in the bunkhouses as they prepared for the day before them. She trotted up the wooden steps to the wrap around porch, toed off her boots, and turned to survey the ranch.

Longbourne was the largest spread along this stretch of the South Platte, but it still possessed a definite charm and beauty. The ranch was bordered by the river on the east and the steep rise of the foothills on the west. It was a nice spread and provided the Bennet family with a comfortable income. It was a home to be proud of.

The screen door creaked as the woman pulled the door open and strolled back into the kitchen.

"Good morning Miss Elizabeth. How was your ride this morning?" asked a cheerful round little woman who was standing at the stove.

"It was wonderful, Hill. The sunrise was beautiful this morning." Elizabeth untied the ribbon from her hair and let her curls bounce freely around her shoulders. "Is anyone else up yet?"

"Well, your father rode out about an hour ago to check the gate on the Northwest corner. Lydia is upstairs primping for her first day at the cafe. I would guess your ma is helping her. Jane is still getting her books together for classes today. Kitty is just getting dressed and Mary is still asleep. It will probably be another late morning. Why don't you have some coffee while you wait? Go wash up. When you come back I will have a hot cup poured and waiting for you."

"That sounds wonderful, Hill." Elizabeth leaned over and gave the woman a tight hug before heading into the washroom at the rear of the house.

When she returned a steaming mug was waiting at her place at the large oak table. She took a sip, sighed deeply, and leaned back in her chair. Quiet footsteps on the stair alerted Elizabeth that one of her family members was about to join her.

"Dear Jane, how well you look this morning. Your male students are sure going to have a hard time focusing on their lessons," Elizabeth gently teased and watched the blush rise on her elder sister's cheeks.

"Really Lizzy! You are being quite ridiculous!" Jane scolded solemnly as she sat down, but she couldn't conceal the rosy blush on her cheekbones.

The screen door banged shut as Thomas Bennet entered the house and took his seat at the head of the table.

"Hello Lizzy. Hello Jane. Is breakfast ready?"

"It'll be just a second, Mr. Tom," Hill called from the kitchen.

"Good. I'm famished. Lizzy, a stretch of fence out by the northwest gate needs to be repaired as soon as possible." Mr. Bennet swiped his daughter's mug and took a long slug of her coffee with a satisfied sigh.

"I'll put Jack and Clancy on it this afternoon if they're free. We are really pushing the men right now. We need to see about hiring a few more hands especially with calving season coming up."

"I know Lizzy. I know. I'll see what I can do. Until I can find someone we will just have to make do.”

Lizzy nodded in agreement and proceeded to discuss the daily workings of the ranch with her father.

A strong wave of perfume preceded the next family member to the table.

"Lizzy, why do bother with the ranch business at all?" Lydia whined as she plopped her powdered and puffed person into the spot at the table beside Jane.

"You're quite right, Lydia. Elegant females don't concern themselves with men's business," Mrs. Bennet concurred as she followed her youngest daughter into the dining room. "You will never catch a husband if you are sunburned, wearing trousers, and smell like that horse of yours. And then there's your hair! Lizzy, it's tangled beyond recognition. Go and pin it up like Jane's at once...."

Mrs. Bennet would have continued her discourse on Elizabeth's physical failings if Mr. Bennet had not observed his daughter's pained expression, taken pity on her, and interrupted.

"My dear, it is a good thing that Lizzy does concern herself with `men's business' because we have never had any sons to carry out the `men`s business'. If anything ever happens to me, Lizzy will be the one that will have to hold things together. In fact, she pretty much runs the ranch already. Besides, any man who can't see beyond a few tangles and a little dirt to the true beauty of my Lizzy doesn't deserve her." Mr. Bennet gave his daughter an affectionate smile and she responded with one of her own.

"Well, this all very vexing!" Mrs. Bennet huffed with a dramatic sigh of her ample bosom.

Kitty and Mary eventually joined the family at the table. Heads were bowed, grace was asked, and Hill began to bring the meal in from the kitchen. A hearty meal was eaten and then everyone set about his or her day. Jane, Kitty, and Lydia climbed into the buggy and headed into town. Mary would spend the day with her mother being trained in the mysterious intricacies of the domestic arts. Mrs. Bennet hoped to compensate for Mary's lack of beauty by making her the perfect housewife. Mr. Bennet retreated to his study to review the ranch records while Lizzy quickly tied her hair back in a braid, tugged on her boots, and set her gray hat on her curls. Jimmy had Austen waiting at the hitching post when she trotted down the porch steps leaving the screen door to bang closed behind her. She mounted up and rode off to supervise the hands out near the third big bend in the river. The day at Longbourne had begun.

The Bennet buggy slowed as it entered the main street of Meryton. Jane reined the horses to a stop so Lydia could hop down in front of the cafe.

"Good luck, Lydia," Kitty called.

"We will be here to pick you up this afternoon," Jane reminded her flighty sister. "Be careful."

"Oh, I'll be fine. Have fun with the children you two, while I spend the day with hungry handsome men!" Lydia giggled and then entered the cafe.

Jane lightly slapped the reigns to start the horses moving again. The buggy rolled down the few final blocks of Main Street to the other end of town. On the last corner, Jane noted with interest that the newly arrived doctor had hung a sign giving notice that his clinic was officially open.

A little way beyond the edge of town sat the small clapboard schoolhouse. Children were playing tag and ball in the dusty yard, but they stopped and called out when they spotted the approaching buggy.

Dan Whittier, one of the older boys who attended the school part time while also working on his father's ranch, came and offered his hand to help Kitty out of the buggy.

"Good morning, Dan!" Kitty simpered prettily, “Thanks.”

"My pleasure, Miss Bennet. I'll get the horses unhitched for you."

"Thank you, Dan. Come along Kitty. It is almost time for class to begin."

Kitty swept the schoolhouse while Jane wrote the daily assignments on the board. Then Kitty rang the large bell on the porch summoning the students inside. The sounds of thundering footsteps, cheerful conversation, and banging desktops filled the room as Jane called the class to order.

Jane was in the middle of an arithmetic lesson and Kitty was assisting the youngest students with their basic sums when the door to the schoolhouse opened and a man entered the back of the room. The students' attention was immediately drawn to the visitor and all thoughts of their math lesson vanished. Jane was conscientiously explaining a problem on the chalkboard when excited whispers began spreading through her classroom. She turned to discover what could possibly be distracting her normally attentive class.

Dr. Bingley was entirely unaware of the stares and whispered comments that were coming from the roomful of children. His eyes remained fixed on the lovely figure at the front of the room.

She's an angel, he silently declared to himself. She was definitely not what his imagination had conjured up at the title of schoolmarm. He had been expecting a skinny, strict spinster. Not the vision of loveliness that he now beheld. He stared transfixed by her wheat-colored curls, forget-me-not eyes, and willowy figure.

Jane, however, did not suffer from this same temporary paralysis. Instead, she was merely afflicted by the rapid appearance of a heated blush on her cheeks. Jane quickly averted her eyes from the man who was openly staring at her person. It wasn't quite proper for him to stare at her so, but she hastily noted that he seemed to be oblivious to everything. Jane's embarrassment increased when her students began to titter and chuckle at the awkward tension that obviously existed between their teacher and the strange visitor. Finally, Kitty came to the rescue.

“Children, why don't you take recess now,” Kitty instructed smoothly and then approached the man who was still standing just inside the door. The students pushed past him in their eagerness to enjoy the sunshine.

“Hello, sir. My name is Miss Kitty Bennet and I am one of the teachers here. I assume that you are Dr. Bingley. We are very happy to welcome you to Meryton, sir.” Kitty greeted the man and waited a moment for a response. “You are Dr. Bingley, aren't you?”

Bingley gently shook his head to recover from his dazed state and forced his eyes to focus on the young woman beside him. “Indeed, I am Dr. Charles Bingley.”

“Well then Dr. Bingley, allow me to introduce my sister, Miss Jane Bennet. Jane has been teaching here at Meryton School for three years.” Kitty made this speech as she led Mr. Bingley down the aisle toward the front of the schoolhouse.

“It is a pleasure to meet you, Dr. Bingley,” Jane managed to murmur.

“No, Miss Bennet. The pleasure is all mine.” Bingley stated seriously and was delighted when Jane's cheeks flushed with renewed color. Two sets of blue eyes met, locked, and once again the rest of the world disappeared.

Kitty was forced to interrupt again with a question.

“Was there something that you needed, Dr. Bingley?"

“Indeed, Miss Bennet. Thank you for reminding me. I wish to give each of your students a thorough physical examination free of charge in return for the warm welcome I have received here in Meryton. I just wanted to find a time that would be convenient for you. I do not wish to interfere with your schedule.”

Jane allowed her sister to make the arrangements with Dr. Bingley and took advantage of the time to study the new arrival. He was definitely not what she had expected. She had imagined someone older and more studious looking. The man before her was slim and reasonably tall. He had clear blue eyes, golden curls, and a cheerful countenance.

Actually, he is not at all unpleasant to look at, Jane thought distractedly. Dr. Bingley noticed Jane's observation of his appearance and responded with another wide smile which only increased his appeal. Indeed, he is not, Jane restated internally.

Kitty and Dr. Bingley settled on a date and time for the examinations. Jane's wandering attention only returned to the conversation as the doctor turned to leave.

“Until Thursday then, good day Miss Bennet."

The doctor nodded at Kitty and then turned to face Jane again. He made direct eye contact and smiled one final time.

“Good day Miss Bennet.”

He uttered the words with joyful remorse. Then he turned quickly and bounced cheerfully down the schoolhouse steps whistling a lilting tune.

Chapter 3

Posted on Friday, 14 March

After a hard day in the saddle all Lizzy wanted was a cool drink. She had been working with the hands to separate the calves from the herd so they could be examined and counted. The wind had stirred dirt into the air and the sun had beat down mercilessly on the riders working on the plains. Lizzy was ready for a long soak, a hearty meal, and a good night's rest.

Lizzy rode Austen into the yard, dismounted, and led her to her stall. There she removed her saddle, groomed and watered her, and dropped a quick goodnight kiss on her head before heading up to the main house. Lizzy's steps were slower than that morning as she began to feel the results of a long day of work. The sound of a horse nickering caught her attention. Three strange mounts were tied at the hitching post. There was an appaloosa, a chestnut, and a handsome palomino that was almost white in color. They were all fine specimens of horseflesh, but they looked fatigued.

I wonder who they belong to?, Lizzy pondered. Her question was answered when she heard strange male voices drifting out the window of her father's study. She was curious, but she didn't linger. The knowledge that Hill would have fresh lemonade chilled and waiting motivated Lizzy to hurry into the kitchen as she kicked off her boots.

The mystery of the strange male visitors was revealed at dinner that evening. Kitty was giggling while Lydia gushed about her day at the cafe. Mary was helping Hill get the supper dishes on the table while Mrs. Bennet relentlessly pumped Jane for all the details of her encounter with Dr. Bingley. Lizzy, now refreshed and clean, simply sat silently in her chair and observed the behavior of her mother and sisters with barely concealed amusement. The chaos settled momentarily when Mr. Bennet took his place at the head of the table and called the meal to order by saying a simple prayer. Then normal mealtime activities resumed. Kitty giggled, Lydia gushed, Mary sulked, Jane blushed, Mrs. Bennet interrogated, and Mr. Bennet munched his meal with undisguised relish.

Several minutes had passed in this manner when Mr. Bennet looked up from his plate to address Lizzy.

"I solved our labor shortage today, Lizzy. I hired three young men who rode out to the ranch. They were eager for work and have guaranteed to stay at least through the summer. I know that you will quickly whip them into shape. I bet that they will do very well for you.”

"Were they able to give you any references or work history, father?" Lizzy only wanted ranch hands that she could trust.

"Now Lizzy, that is hardly necessary. As long as they give me a full day's work for their wages I am satisfied. You of all people should know that out here in the West a man should be free from the shadows of his past. They drifted into town this morning looking for work. Foster sent them out this way. It's what I call a mutually advantageous situation."

Lydia's interest was perked with the mention of her employer's name and entered the conversation while her father munched on a fluffy wheat roll that was dripping with butter.

"Aye, Lizzy. I saw them at the cafe this morning. They caused quite a stir riding down Main Street like desperados. The one on the white horse was fearfully handsome and charmingly polite. I do hope that he has a white hat. A man looks nothing without a white cowboy hat."

"Well, regardless of hats," continued Mr. Bennet. "I put them down in the last bunkhouse and they will be ready to start work in the morning. Keep close to them for a few days, Lizzy, until they get a feel for the ranch. I am confident that you can deal with any conflict or problem that may come up, my dear."

With the issue firmly settled in his mind Mr. Bennet asked Mary to pass the potatoes and happily continued his meal while Lizzy wondered about her three newest ranch hands.

Lizzy was braiding her hair for bed when a light tap sounded on her door.

“Come in,” Lizzy called out.

Jane quietly entered the room and sat on the edge of the bed. The two sisters often shared these nightly chats and it had become somewhat of a ritual.

Lizzy turned in her chair and pulled her feet up to rest her head comfortably on her knees.

“Did Jack and Clancy get the fence repaired?” Lizzy nodded in reply and continued with her hair.

“You look tired, Lizzy. Sometimes I think that we all expect too much of you.” Jane paused and looked at her younger sister thoughtfully. “Maybe you should ask father to hire a foreman.”

Jane quickly glanced at her sister's horrified expression before she hurried on.

“You work too hard, Lizzy, and you really should be worrying about other things.”

“Like what for instance?” Lizzy demanded.

“Like marriage.”

“What?”

“Lizzy, you know that when father dies everything will change. We don't have a brother to take over the ranch. I know that you're more than capable of running Longbourne, but you have to know that father can't let you run it by yourself without the help of a man. No one would do business with a woman and it just wouldn't be safe. Longbourne will have to be sold unless one of us marries a man who will take the ranch over. You should be looking for a future spouse and business partner, Lizzy.”

Jane finished and watched as a variety of emotions moved across her sister's features. Jane identified anger, resentment, denial, and then finally acceptance.

Lizzy counted to ten and took a deep breath to compose herself before she responded.

“Jane, I know that what you say it true and it scares me, but I won't trade my happiness for my security even if it means losing Longbourne. Don't you understand?” Lizzy asked with tears pooling in her eyes.

Jane rose from the bed and knelt to embrace her sister.

“Of course, I understand. I want to marry for love as well. Just take care to fall in love with someone who loves ranching,” Jane said in an attempt to lighten the mood.

Lizzy managed to laugh through her tears.

“Oh, Jane. I am sure that you won't have to choose between security and love.”

“And you will?”

“Jane, I am determined that I will only marry a man that I am deeply in love with. I want a life partner, not a business partner.”

Lizzy paused and sighed deeply. A dreamy gleam shone in her eyes and Jane knew she was seeing a beautiful image of her future. Too quickly, the vision vanished and Lizzy returned to reality.

“So, I will end up a spinster. Austen and I will roam the range together, but I shall make sure that your six children all know how to rope a calf and ride like the wind.”

Jane and Elizabeth and shared another burst of laughter while they hugged. Then Jane got up to return to her room.

“Goodnight, Lizzy.”

“Goodnight, dear Jane.”

Lizzy hustled under the covers and tugged then up beneath her chin. She blew out her candle and then snuggled into the welcome comfort of her bed.

The screen door banged shut behind her as Lizzy strode across the porch on her way to the stable yard. She had already had her morning ride, breakfast, and several cups of coffee. It was time for the day to begin.

Lizzy reached the stable yard and was welcomed by light-hearted teasing and greetings from the men.

“Good morning, Miss Lizzy.”

“Looking good, Miss Bennet.”

“Look, it's the boss.”

Lizzy grinned and greeted the hands individually. Some of them had been at the ranch for years and had watched her grow up. She enjoyed working beside these men everyday and knew that she had earned their respect and their protection. The hard work and long hours had almost formed a bond between them. She felt closer to these men than most of her family.

Lizzy moved through the crowd and hopped up to sit on the top rail of the corral.

“Listen up, fellas,” she hollered. “Here are the assignments for today.”

Lizzy read off the list and answered any questions that needed clarification.

“See you back here for supper, boys. Saddle up and head out.”

Lizzy remained sitting on the corral and watched as the hands left the yard to begin the tasks for the day. Three men remained behind the rest of the group.

Lizzy's gaze was immediately drawn to the man in the center. He was tall and had a lanky build. His black hair was tousled and his face was shaded by the brim of his hat. A plaid shirt covered his muscled arms and broad chest while a blue bandana was tied carelessly around his neck. A coiled length of rope was clasped in his left hand. Leather chaps protected his long legs and a pair of brown boots completed his ensemble.

Lizzy merely glanced at the other two men. There was just something about the man in the middle that demanded attention. Something that alerted her senses.

As she watched, the center man tilted his head and the threesome began to swagger toward her. Lizzy jumped to the ground to greet the men.

“Hello, I am Miss Elizabeth Bennet.”

As she spoke the center man lifted his chin and she saw his face for the first time. He had finely-chiseled features and his cheeks were shaded with just a hint of stubble. Then he lifted his eyelids and met her gaze directly. His eyes were a piercing icy blue. She felt immediately like his eyes could see inside her, even her thoughts. They seemed to be peering right into the depths of her heart and mind. It was a strange and disconcerting sensation.

His intense and unrelenting stare made her stumble over her next words.

“W- w- welcome to Longbourne. We are glad to have you,” Lizzy greeted them with a forced smile.

The ice blue eyes never faltered or shifted. His eyes gave his handsome face a harsh, almost wild look. Lizzy looked into the freezing orbs and saw a flash of something.

What was it? Hate? Anger? Danger? Lizzy asked herself as a shiver raced down her spine.

Suddenly, the stranger's eyes lightened to a sunny blue and a wide white grin slashed across the expanse of his tanned face. Whatever Lizzy had seen in his eyes had completely vanished.

“Pleased to meet you, ma'm,” The stranger began in a silky smooth voice. “We sure are happy to have some work.”

Lizzy shook the hand that the man offered and internally scolded herself for judging her new hand.

Imagine being spooked by an attractive man with a pair of sky blue eyes. What's wrong with me? Lizzy wondered.

“My name is Wickham. George Wickham. This here is Denny,” Wickham gestured to the tawny-haired bearded man on his left. “And this is Saunderson.” The small blond man nodded in acknowledgement.

“You all got settled in the bunkhouse, correct?” Lizzy asked.

“Yes, m'am, we sure did. Your father got us settled in last night. It was real nice to have a soft bed and a roof over our heads again after sleeping on the ground beneath the stars for so long. We surely do appreciate this chance,” Wickham assured her with a charming smile.

“Well, get your mounts and I'll give you a quick tour of the ranch.”

Lizzy untied Austen's lead from the hitching post and swung up into the saddle. When she turned she saw Wickham sitting comfortably on the large, sleek palomino that she had admired yesterday. Lizzy caught her breath at the image before her. A tall, rugged cowboy roaming the plains on his white horse. It was like something from her childhood fantasies.

Lizzy swallowed hard and regained control of her wayward thoughts as she rode over to Wickham.

“What a beautiful animal,” she admired. “What's his name?”

“Younge,” Wickham replied. “I don't know how I would survive without this boy. He keeps me company when I get lonely out there in the wide open spaces.”

The conversation paused as they left the stable yard riding beside each other. Denny was close behind on the appaloosa and Saunderson spurred his chestnut to catch up.

“Your mare is almost as lovely as her owner. May I make her acquaintance?” Wickham asked with a warm chuckle and a sideways glance.

Lizzy blushed lightly and responded, “You certainly may. This is Austen.”

“Pleased to meet you, Austen,” Wickham greeted the mare solemnly and then joined in with Lizzy's trill of laughter as they rode out onto the open plains.

To Lizzy, suddenly, the sagebrush smelled sweeter, the breeze felt softer, the sun shone brighter, and the day was bursting with promise.

Chapter 4

Posted on Friday, 21 March 2003

Books were slammed shut, lunch pails banged, slates were snatched up and footsteps pounded as the crowd of students raced for the door. It was Friday afternoon and the children were anxious to escape the confines of the schoolhouse for the freedom of the weekend.

Soon the schoolhouse was empty. Jane wearily rolled her shoulders to ease the tension and began to clean the board. Kitty grabbed the broom and began to sweep out the room. It was their normal routine. However, this afternoon the sisters were not alone. Dr. Bingley stood by a table packing his medical supplies into his black bag.

The doctor had spent the last two afternoons at the schoolhouse examining the students. The examinations had been routine and he had treated the mild ailments that he had discovered. Just another two more ordinary days in the life of a physician. Well, they should have been ordinary, but something had severely disturbed Charles Bingley. For the first time in his a life a woman had managed to distract him from his work.

Not a woman, Bingley mentally corrected himself. An angel.

Miss Jane Bennet had thoroughly disturbed him and he was enjoying it. He had admired other women before and even performed some cautious courting, but never before had a woman addled him like Jane did.

Dr. Bingley regretfully closed the clasp on his black bag. His work here at the schoolhouse was done. After two blissful days in her constant presence he was to be deprived of even the sight of her.

What can I do? he wondered. I must see her again, but I don't want to offend her by being forward. Better to be forward then to lose her completely, man.

Bingley was intently contemplating his dilemma when he heard footsteps behind him. He turned and saw Kitty and Jane behind him bonneted and ready to go.

“Dr. Bingley, thank you so much for taking the time to examine the children,” Jane thanked him prettily. “I am sure that their parents appreciate it,” she glance shyly down at her feet and then up again, “and I know that I do.”

Bingley just stared at her beloved face and smiled dreamily at her. Kitty coughed to conceal her laugh at the sappy spectacle before her.

“Goodbye, Dr. Bingley,” Kitty said and pushed the door open. Dan Whittier was leaning against the porch railing obviously waiting for something. He straightened up when he saw Kitty.

“Miss Bennet,” he cleared his throat and stared at his dusty shoes. “Would you take a walk with me? It's a beautiful day and I saw some wild roses not far from here.” Dan looked pleadingly at Kitty and then at Jane.

Kitty turned and looked at Jane with a hopeful light in her eyes.

“All right, you two,” Jane relented. “Go and enjoy your walk, but Dan have her back in an hour so we can get back to the ranch before dusk.”

“Sure thing, Miss Bennet, and thanks.”

Dan took Kitty's hand and led her away from town and into the tall prairie grass.

I wish I had that boy's courage, thought Bingley as he faced Jane awkwardly. “What will you do while you wait Miss Bennet?”

“I think that I will walk down to the cafe and buy a cup of tea.”

Bingley sucked in a deep breath and gathered his nerve.

“Would you allow me to join you, Miss Bennet?” Bingley waited in unconcealed anxiety.

“Why Dr. Bingley, that would be delightful.” Jane smiled sweetly at the shy man before her.

“Shall we go then?” Without delay Bingley took Jane's arm and escorted her down Main Street. He barely felt his feet touch the ground.

Bingley wished that he could make this afternoon last forever. It had been perfection. They had sat in the sunshine talking aimlessly about subjects he couldn't even recall. Jane had sipped her tea and he had drunk his coffee. They had both been shy, but not awkward. She had even given him permission to call her by her first name. Perfection.

Jane thought she had stepped into a dream. It was perfection. Charles had told her stories of his life in Philadelphia and about his schoolboy adventures. He had made her laugh with his charming smiles and amusing conversation. It was impossible to feel uncomfortable with this man. Perfection.

Lydia had greeted them warmly, served their beverages, and wisely held her tongue for once. It was obvious to any observer that Miss Jane Bennet and Dr. Charles Bingley were completely absorbed with each other. Gossip was already spreading like wildfire.

Fortunately, for Bingley and Jane something more exciting was about to capture the citizens of Meryton's attention.

The peace of the lazy afternoon was shattered by the sound of a galloping horse. Heads turned, necks craned, ears opened, and eyes grew wide as a lone rider appeared at the east end of Main Street.

At first there was simply a dark figure silhouetted against the wide Colorado sky, but as the horse and rider thundered down Main Street they began to become distinguishable. The massive ebony stallion hammered the ground with its heavy hooves. A large cloud of dust trailed the thoroughbred as he continued his rush through town. The magnificent beast halted in front of the hotel with a commanding jerk of the reins from his rider.

The rider was as dark and forbidding as his mount. The dark rider slid from the saddle and guided his horse to a water trough to drink. When the stallion had finished, the man tied him firmly to a nearby hitching post. Finally, the man slowly turned and faced the crowd of onlookers that had gathered.

His dark gaze burned directly through the citizens of Meryton as if they had ceased to exist. The crowd on the other hand meticulously studied the rider with a mixture of awe and horror.

He was an extremely large man with a solid muscular frame. He was clothed all in black from the crown of his hat to the toes of his polished boots. Crossing the street, still unconcerned or unaware of the peering eyes following his every move, his long stride was confident and determined. Every movement he made merely emphasized his barely restrained power.

Silver spurs jangled at his heels and his black scarf drifted behind him in the breeze. He stepped up onto the boardwalk and placed his hands on his hips as he observed his surroundings in silence. His relaxed stance pushed his coat back and revealed two pistols worn in a low-slung gun belt. Clearly, this man meant business.

The man tugged his hat off of his head and ran one large hand though his unruly chestnut curls. The planes of his face were smooth and looked like they had been hewn from polished marble. His eyebrows were dark slashes, followed by a patrician nose, and his pair of full lips were set in a grim line. He finally deigned to scan the curious crowd. Coffee-colored eyes visibly darkened with disdain and his jaw was set firmly in a somber frown. The man in black was not pleased.

The crowd watched the man in wonder. Who was this man and why was he here in Meryton?

However, to one person in the crowd the man in black was not a stranger.

Dr. Bingley placed enough money on the table to cover the bill and took Jane's hand as he began to stand.

“Jane, I have had a lovely afternoon. I saw Kitty arrive a few minutes ago so our hour must be up. I hope I will see you again very soon. Please excuse me.”

Bingley gave Jane an embarrassed smile and turned to leave the café in a rush. Jane was a little startled at Charles' abrupt departure, but understanding dawned as she watched him cautiously approach and greet the forbidding man in black.

No one was more shocked by the appearance of the man in black than Charles Bingley. At first Dr. Bingley had merely studied the man in fascination, but on closer inspection an odd sense of recognition flooded through him. A single glance into the stranger's dark eyes confirmed Bingley's suspicion. He knew this man....or at least he had at one time.

Bingley made his hurried farewell to Jane and left the cafe. Gently pushing his way to the front of the crowd, he soon stood face to face with the new arrival.

"Darcy?" Bingley asked, hesitation and disbelief clearly present in his voice and on his face.

The coffee-colored eyes coldly assessed the young doctor and then gradually warmed. Slowly, the tightly clenched jaw relaxed and a half smile softened the stranger's features.

"Hello, Bingley. It's been a long time," the man in black rumbled in deep resonant tones. He extended a large hand in greeting.

"Too long, my friend," Bingley exclaimed happily ignoring the outstretched hand in favor of an exuberant, but manly embrace.

Darcy pulled back first and quickly resumed his reserved manner. Bingley simply stood in the street beaming like a fool.

"So what are you doing here Bingley? Why the devil aren't you in Philadelphia?"

"I could ask you the same question, Darcy. I thought that you were in St. Louis."

Immediately, Darcy's eyes darkened, his jaw set, and a dark shadow spread across his face. Bingley took this as a signal not to continue this line of conversation, especially not in the middle of Main Street. Bingley quickly changed the topic to something he hoped would be neutral.

"How long will you be in town, Darcy, and where are you staying?"

"The length of my stay depends on many things," Darcy replied gravely. "I plan to get a room at the hotel for at least tonight."

"Nonsense, Darcy. You are staying at my house as my guest. You must stay a few days, at the very least." Bingley clapped Darcy on his broad shoulder and directed him toward his house and clinic at the end of the street.

"Caroline will be absolutely delighted to see you." Bingley glanced toward his friend and caught the slight shudder of revulsion that shot through Darcy's solid frame.

"Some things never change, Darcy." Bingley chuckled loudly and even Darcy allowed another slight smile to escape.

Chapter 5

Posted on Friday, 28 March 2003

At Longbourne, the dinnertime conversation was animated as the topic of discussion bounced between Jane and Dr. Bingley's afternoon and the arrival of the man in black.

"I knew how it would be," crowed Mrs. Bennet. "I knew that you were beautiful for a reason. I knew that you would catch Dr. Bingley."

"It was really quite shocking to see," Lydia interjected. "They just sat there mooning at each other over the table. Dr. Bingley is completely besotted."

Jane blushed bright red at the vivid, but accurate scene Lydia was describing.

"It all sounds rather scandalous. I would not accompany him again if I was you," advised Mary sagely.

"Who asked you, Mary?" shrieked Mrs. Bennet from the foot of the table. "Hold your tongue."

Lizzy watched her older sister with concern and empathized with her embarrassment.

Poor Jane .

"Oh pooh, don't worry, Jane." Lydia said as she slumped into her seat. "Everyone forgot all about you and Dr. Bingley after that stranger rode into town.

"A stranger?" queried Mrs. Bennet eager for some fresh gossip.

"Lord, yes. A dark, dangerous man on a fearsome stallion."

"Tell me more, Lydia." Mrs. Bennet was practically squirming in her chair with the mounting excitement.

"His horse was black as the sky at midnight and as swift as lightning. The man himself was massive, powerful, and terrifying. He spoke not a word."

"Lydia, that's not true," Jane asserted. "Dr. Bingley and the man had a conversation. The man is even staying with the Bingleys."

Lydia ignored Jane's protest and continued on with her dramatic narration as their mother urged her on.

"I think he must be an outlaw....or at least a gunfighter. He looked all too willing to use those silver pistols. I'll bet he's the man who gunned down that judge in Denver and now he plans to hold up the Meryton Bank and make his escape into the mountains."

"Lydia, that's enough of your dramatics," Lizzy said with firm authority.

Mrs. Bennet shot Lizzy an angry look for spoiling her fun and Lydia stuck her tongue out at her older sister.

"Thank you Lizzy, for saving me from having to return order to the table," Mr. Bennet said with a stern glance at his wife and youngest daughter. "Now tell me, how did the three new hands work out today?"

"Very well, father. They all put in a hard day's work and seemed to know their tasks. I was very pleased, especially with Mr. Wickham. He is one of the most talented riders that I have ever seen. I enjoyed working with them today." Lizzy concluded her report with a small smile that did not go unobserved by Jane or her father.

"Lizzy, perhaps you might mix them in with the returning hands tomorrow, so that they can begin to meet the other men."

"An excellent idea, father. I also think that at least one of them should go on the small drive to Denver that's coming up. I think Mr. Wickham will be ready by then."

"Whatever you suggest, Lizzy. You know how much I trust your judgment. Do whatever you think is best."

Darcy was settling his horse in the small stable behind the clinic and silently listening to Bingley chatter on about his impressions of the West so far. Darcy noticed that Bingley's voice grew even more animated whenever he mentioned anything about Meryton's school. He filed that observation away for future reference.

Darcy was using the currycomb on the side of his stallion when he noticed that the other three stalls were all empty.

“Bingley, where is your horse?”

“I don't have one, Darcy.”

“You don't have one!” Darcy's face was marked with disbelief. “You call yourself a Western man now and you don't have a horse? Unbelievable. Bingley we shall remedy that fact first thing tomorrow.”

“Fine, I would appreciate your advice. I just don't want a...a...a beast like your horse. I would be too terrified to walk beside him let alone ride him.” Bingley eyes widened in fear as he studied the stallion that was peacefully munching on oats.

A rich chuckled bubbled up from the depths of Darcy's chest. Now he remembered why he had missed Bingley.

“Tempest is hardly a beast, Bingley. In fact, he is amazingly gentle.”

“Well, he still isn't quite what I need,” Bingley stated doubtfully.

“Fine, Bingley. I will select a swaybacked old nag without a lick of spirit. Will that be satisfactory?” Darcy's face looked completely serious, but his eyes revealed a mocking gleam at his friend's expense.

“But...Darcy...surely there must be a happy medium,” Bingley cried piteously. His protests were in vain. Darcy had left the stable and was crossing to the house. Bingley ran to catch up.

Upon reaching the porch both men removed their hats and scraped their boots. Bingley opened the back door and turned to see Darcy hesitating on the porch behind him.

“Brace yourself, Darcy. The worst she can do is scream or faint,” Bingley joked.

“That's what I'm afraid of,” Darcy said grimly.

The two men entered the house and crossed the hall to the parlor. A feminine scream rang out and a loud thud echoed through the house.

Darcy was settled in a comfortable armchair when Bingley trotted back down the stairs and into the parlor.

“You will be glad to hear that Caroline will recover. She is still in a state of shock, but she should be fine by morning. Actually, it is probably better this way,” Bingley laughed lightly. “I know that I predicted either a scream or a swoon, but I didn't think she would do both. You aren't that handsome, Darcy.”

Darcy couldn't believe that Bingley was mocking his sister. However, he supposed that the situation was rather humorous.

“Would you like a drink before we eat?”

“Please.”

Bingley poured two whiskies, handed one to Darcy, and sank into the chair opposite his guest.

“I've missed you, Darce,” Bingley said suddenly serious.

“The feeling is mutual, Bingley. It's been several years since we last saw each other.”

“It's been eight years, at least,” Bingley insisted. “The last time we were together was right after graduation in Philadelphia. Those were great times. Do you remember our years at the university? Remember how we would stay up reading, studying, or just talking until dawn? We were practically inseparable, but then...Well, everything just changed.”

Bingley's voice grew wistful as his mind drifted into the realm of memory.

“I know, Bingley,” Darcy said solemnly. “I am sorry that it had to be that way. After my parents died, I just couldn't bear staying in Philadelphia especially with you going off to medical school in Boston. So I sold everything, took my law degree, and left with Georgiana for St. Louis. I needed a fresh start with no painful reminders.”

Darcy paused and took a deep breath. “I apologize that I never said goodbye, Bingley.”

Bingley was shocked to still see acute pain and grief reflected in the eyes of his friend.

Surely, after eight years he should have recovered from the tragic loss of his parents.

Bingley rose from his chair and crossed the room to place his hand on Darcy's shoulder.

“I understood then, Darce, and I understand now.”

“Thank you, Bingley.”

The room was silent for a few minutes until Bingley introduced a new conversation.

“I told you all about moving my practice out here, Darce. Now tell me about your time in St. Louis and what you are doing here in Meryton.”

Darcy's face remained stationary, but his eyes that had been filled with sadness were now ablaze with rage.

The same thing happened when I mentioned St. Louis in the street this afternoon. What happened there that precipitates this violent reaction in my friend? Bingley pondered.

Darcy cleared his throat and began to tell the story of his journey west.

“When Georgi and I got to St. Louis I bought a house and set up a small law practice. Within a few months, I learned that law books and courtrooms are useless any farther west than Ohio. Out here the law is determined by men with guns. It took me awhile to adjust to this concept of justice, but soon I had purchased a gun belt and a pair of pistols. I got damn good. Good enough that I was hired as sheriff in a small community outside of St. Louis called Ramsgate. I knew that my new position was dangerous so I left Georgi in a boarding school in St. Louis. It was close enough that she could spend her holidays with me and I could visit her often. Life was good, but then... well… I… just got restless, I guess, and I headed farther west. Georgi wanted to stay in school in St. Louis. I drifted from place to place doing various odd jobs and never staying in one place for very long. About two years ago, I made it to the Wyoming territory and discovered the prettiest spread of land that I had ever seen. I bought it, built a home on it, and now Georgi comes up there to spend her summers with me. Right now, I am working as the Indian agent to the Cheyenne in cooperation with the soldiers at Fort Laramie. It doesn't pay much, but it's rewarding.”

Darcy finished his story and took a drink of whiskey.

“It sounds like you have had quite a few adventures, but why are you here in Meryton?” Bingley asked.

“Oh, I took Georgi back to school and now I am just passing through on my way back home.”

“Of course,” Bingley said with a doubtful smile.

Something just isn't adding up. What isn't he telling me? What happened in St. Louis that has changed my friend and disrupted his life?

Bingley studied the man that he had once known so well, but now he remained a mystery.

Well, I can't force him to tell me. I suppose that maybe in time...

With that final thought Bingley rose from his chair by the fire.

“Well Darcy, dinner must be ready because something sure smells good.”

Darcy rose to his full height, stretched once, and followed his rediscovered friend into the dining room.

Chapter 6

Posted on Saturday, 5 April

Lizzy gave Austen her head and the mare tore freely through the tall prairie grass. The morning breeze tugged at Lizzy's curls until they tumbled wildly around her shoulders.

Is there any felicity in the world superior to this? Lizzy wondered as she felt Austen's hooves beat the ground in time with her own heart. She felt completely and utterly free as they raced toward the sliver of sunshine shimmering on the far horizon.

By the time Lizzy slowed Austen's pace, her face was flushed and her eyes were glowing with exhilaration. Lizzy guided Austen across a gulch and up the side of a low hill. There she dismounted and prepared to witness the birth of yet another day.

Although Lizzy normally enjoyed her solitude, this morning she was not alone. A lone dark figure was intently watching her daily ritual from the top of a rocky ridge. In fact, this rider had been enjoying his own morning ride when she had disturbed his peaceful contemplation. He had watched her race across the plains and admired the pure joy and passion that was evident in her riding. He had been profoundly disappointed when she had halted her horse and dismounted. Although he was quite a distance from her, he felt an unmistakable connection to her as they had gazed at the fiery sky before them.

Once the sun had begun its ascent, the rider turned his mount and headed to the base of the ridge.

“Come on, Tempest.”

The horse responded by breaking into a strong gallop as the dark pair sailed fluidly through the sage.

Breakfast at Longbourne held to the typical morning routine. The conversation was loud and lively as always. Only Lizzy noticed her father's dark mood and quiet behavior.

He must be thinking about ranch business. I hope that it's nothing serious.

As the meal concluded Mrs. Bennet bustled into the kitchen to consult with Hill and Mr. Bennet silently disappeared into his office. Jane, Kitty, and Lydia headed into town and Mary headed into the parlor with a basket of mending. Lizzy was ready to head out for the day when she heard her father call out to her.

"Lizzy, can I speak to you for a moment?"

As Lizzy entered the office she noticed the worry lines that marked her father's face, making him look considerably older.

"What is the matter, father? Is there something wrong with the ranch finances? You were so quiet at breakfast. It must be quite serious."

"Not too serious, Lizzy." Mr. Bennet managed a small smile for his favorite and very astute daughter. "Lewis Thompson rode over from his place this morning. He lost about fifty head to a group of rustlers last night. One of his hands was shot in the chest, but thankfully Dr. Bingley managed to patch him up."

"That's awful. We have never had any rustling in the area before. Do you want me to assign more men to the night watch?"

"That's a wise idea, Lizzy. Go ahead and inform the men to keep their eyes open for anything suspicious."

With that her father turned his attention to the ledgers on his desk. Lizzy took this as her sign to leave.

"Be careful, Lizzy," her father whispered so softly she could barely make out his words.

"Yes, father."

Caroline bustled around the dining room arranging flowers, creasing napkins, and assuring herself that the breakfast table was properly laid out. She had taken extra care with her appearance this morning. Her dark hair was pinned up in a complicated twist and she was wearing a melon-colored muslin dress which was brand new this season.

William Darcy will be unable to resist me. Caroline assured herself as she examined her face in the hallway mirror. I will have him for my husband.

The tread of boots on the staircase startled Caroline. She pinched her cheeks to a rosy pink and turned to the doorway in breathless anticipation. However, her smile vanished when instead of seeing the dashing figure of her intended prey she merely saw her own brother.

Bingley noted his sister's crestfallen expression with amusement and slumped tiredly into his seat at the head of the table.

"I am happy to see you too, Caro. I know that I am not as suave as Darcy, but surely you could wish your own brother good morning."

Bingley rubbed his hand across his bleary eyes and looked around the dining room.

"Very nice, Caro. You've really outdone yourself." Bingley said sincerely as he met his sister's pleased expression, but then a mischievous twinkle appeared in his eyes. "However, I must ask. What makes you think that you will succeed in catching Darcy now when you failed eight years ago? I hate to see such effort go to waste."

Caroline glared at her brother. "Oh, .......oh,........will you just shut up?"

The rear screen door creaked open and banged shut as Darcy returned from his morning ride. He scraped his boots off, hung his hat on a peg and strode into the dining room.

“Good morning, Charles. Caroline,” He said with an austere nod before sitting in furthest available seat from his hostess.

“Good morning, William,” Caroline smiled sweetly and fluttered her eyelashes rapidly in Darcy's direction.

Darcy and Bingley merely began to fill their plates with eggs and bacon.

“I can't tell you how thrilled I am to see you again. I know that it has been a long time, but it feels like yesterday that we were dancing together at my debut. What a happy time that was.”

Caroline smiled dreamily and returned to her monologue.

“I was quite shocked to see you yesterday especially in such an uncivilized part of the country. Charles and I are just delighted to renew our friendship with you. You are quite welcome to stay here with us for as long as you are in town. I certainly hope that you will stay in Meryton long enough for you and I to renew our past relationship. It would be a shame to be separated again after such a happy reunion.”

Darcy managed to conceal his shudder of revulsion and cleared his throat before making his response.

“I appreciate your hospitality, Caroline. I am unsure of how long I will be staying in Meryton. The length of my stay depends on several factors which are as of now undetermined.”

Darcy reached for his coffee cup and swallowed a large gulp of the steaming brew.

“Well then, I shall have to think of some way to keep you here, William. Surely, there is some way that I could induce you to stay?”

Darcy choked on his coffee and barely kept it from spraying out of his nostrils. Bingley witnessed his friend's distress and decided to rescue Darcy from his sister's attentions by changing the subject.

“I had a rather exciting night, Darcy. I was called out to a ranch in the wee hours of the morning.”

Darcy wiped his mouth and turned to Bingley with gratitude clearly evident in his dark eyes.

“What was wrong, Bingley?”

“It seems that a group of rustlers hit Mr. Thompson's ranch last night and shot one of his cow hands in the process. A nasty chest wound, but at least the bullet went completely through the man. He lost a large quantity of blood, but I anticipate that he will make a complete recovery. Mr. Thompson estimates that he lost quite a few cattle and is quite worried that the rustlers may return.”

Darcy grunted in response and lifted a forkful of scrambled eggs to his mouth.

Caroline was disgusted that her brother had rudely changed the topic and stolen Darcy's attention from herself, but there was little that she could do about it without breaking the rules of proper hospitality and domestic decorum. She crossed her arms in a petulant position and pouted over the fact that Darcy had failed to comment on her frock.

“It was my first major case here in Meryton and another step in my introduction to the ways of the West. I sure didn't get to sew up many gunshot wounds at the clinic in Philadelphia.”

“Well Bingley, consider yourself lucky because you will probably get to sew up quite a few bullet holes if you stay out here. Guns are simply a means of communication.”

“Anyways, I will have to ride out later to check on the man. Why don't you come with me, Darcy?”

“Charles, I hardly think that William wants to ride out on a house call with you on his first day in town. He can keep me company while I do the shopping and in return I will introduce him to all the town folks.”

Neither option really appealed to Darcy, but anything had to be better than spending the day with Caroline fawning over him.

“I think that I will ride out with you, Bingley. I am curious to hear more about this rustling incident, but first we had better buy you a proper horse.”

Darcy wiped his mouth on his napkin and pushed back from the table. Bingley took his friend's cue and followed. The two men headed to the back door. Darcy left the house without looking back, but Bingley returned to wink cheekily at his sister.

“Thanks for breakfast, Caro.”

Then he pursed his lips in a merry whistle and bounded across the yard after Darcy.

Caroline, furious that her carefully constructed plans had been upset, threw her napkin on the table and let out a low scream of frustration.

Lizzy brought Austen to a halt beneath one of the large cottonwood trees that lined the edges of the South Platte, slowly dismounted and guided Austen down the river bank to drink. Meanwhile, Lizzy fumbled in her saddlebags to locate the lunch that Hill had made for her that morning. Leaving Austen to graze, Lizzy plopped down on the bank and tugged her boots off.

The atmosphere was extremely peaceful. The river gurgled as in meandered along and the song of a lark drifted on the breeze. Lizzy relaxed in the sun-dappled shade of the cottonwood tree and allowed her feet to dangle in the cool water. Lizzy had just unwrapped her sandwich when she was disturbed by approaching footsteps.

“May I join you, Miss Bennet? Or am I interrupting your solitary reverie?”

Lizzy glanced over her shoulder to see George Wickham addressing her in his silky voice with an amused gleam lurking in his clear blue eyes. In his hand, he carried his own lunch.

“You are indeed, Mr. Wickham, but that does not mean that the interruption is unwelcome.”

Lizzy smiled and motioned for him to sit beside her. He quickly responded by stretching his tall, lanky frame out on the bank with a satisfied sigh.

“I would be very sorry if it were. I hope that we will become very good friends.”

Wickham pulled off his own boots and his feet joined hers in the river. They both began to eat their lunches and a comfortable silence settled between them.

When she had finished eating Lizzy sank back in the grass with a contented sigh. From her vantage point she could easily watch her companion as he polished off the rest of his lunch.

Normally, Lizzy treasured her lunch break as a time of rest, but today she found that she was enjoying the company of the man beside her. She was savoring the simple pleasures of sharing lunch with their feet soaking in the cool stream.

Normally, I do not enjoy much company. I wonder why I feel differently with this man

Lizzy blushed slightly at her musings, but began to study his masculine features. His black hair curled at the nape of his neck. His jaw was freshly shaven and relaxed. His eyes had lost their wild gleam and now they were a dazzling midnight blue. He looked younger than when he had arrived and more carefree.

He certainly is a handsome man.

At that moment he turned his head and caught Lizzy staring at him in admiration. He grinned knowingly and Lizzy flushed in embarrassment. She sat up as she struggled to find a topic to break the now awkward silence.

“How are you enjoying your work here on Longbourne, Mr. Wickham?”

“Very well, Miss Bennet. The work is rewarding, the hands are all excellent men, and the scenery is beautiful.”

With this last comment, Wickham turned to her and allowed his gaze to slowly trace the curve of her face.

To Lizzy, his intense gaze seemed as tangible as a physical caress. She shivered and cherished the knowledge that he was not referring to the scenery at all.

“I am glad to hear that you are satisfied with Longbourne, Mr. Wickham.”

“Please call me George, Miss Bennet. Remember, that I hope to become your friend.”

George's hopeful smile immediately melted Lizzy's remaining reserve.

“In return, you must call me Lizzy.”

Lizzy extended her hand in an offer to seal their bargain with a friendly handshake.

“Friends, George?” Lizzy asked with a merry smile.

George reached out and gently clasped her small hand in his own larger one. However instead of retuning the shake that Lizzy had intended, George raised her hand and allowed his lips to lightly graze across her knuckles.

Lizzy sucked in a breath at the intimate gesture and raised her wide brown eyes to connect with his warm gaze.

“Friends, Lizzy.”

Wickham slowly released her hand and then lay back in the soft grass.

Lizzy shook her head gently to clear her muddled thoughts and fell back onto the bank again. The comfortable silence returned as they rested in the sweet smelling grass beneath the cottonwood trees.

Chapter 7

Posted on Friday, 11 April 2003, at

Early Saturday morning found the majority of the citizens of Meryton gathered at Abbey Mill Farm. The stable yard was packed with buggies, wagons, and horses as people arrived to help Robert Martin frame his new barn. It was to be a day of hard work followed by a night of celebration.

Thomas Bennet stopped his team in front of the main house and walked to the back of the wagon to help his daughters out of the wagon. He offered his hand to Jane and frowned slightly when Lizzy hopped to ground without waiting for his assistance. Mary, Lydia, and Kitty quickly joined their older sisters and filled their arms with the food and baked goods that Mary and Hill had prepared for the event. Finally, Mr. Bennet handed his wife down from her perch on the wagon seat, nodded at his family, and strode off to join the men that were mingling near the pile of lumber and supplies. Mrs. Bennet quickly shooed her girls over to the refreshment tables where the women of Meryton were chatting.

Lizzy knew that all of her sisters had been looking forward to today, but she had been secretly dreading it. Instead of enjoying the freedom and challenges of ranch work, she would be forced to endure a day of serving food to the men and listening to the mindless gossip of the women. Her apparel was also a source of discomfort. Her hair pins poked, her bonnet strings choked her, her dress hampered her movements, her stockings itched, her lace-up boots pinched, and her corset seemed to be cutting her in half. She longed for the freedom and comfort of her usual work clothes. However, she knew that she could not appear in a social setting dressed like that without embarrassing her father. With a resigned sigh she joined the gaggle of giggling women.

There was another individual that was dreading the upcoming day.

Darcy had tried every excuse and trick he could think of to avoid attending the barn raising, but to no avail. For once, Charles Bingley was determined and nothing was going to change his mind. So, Darcy found himself astride Tempest as he rode beside the rented buggy which carried Caroline and Charles.

“I hate these community gatherings.” Darcy grumbled under his breath. Especially when I barely know anyone. How did I let me Bingley talk me into this? He added to himself silently.

The arrival of Dr. Bingley's party did not go unnoticed by the citizens of Meryton. Indeed, their response was quite the opposite. Conversation and motion instantly ceased. Many people in the crowd had not yet met the new doctor and his sister let alone their mysterious dark companion. As a result the trio came under renewed scrutiny. Fortunately, Mr. Lucas saw it as one of his mayoral duties to rush to the rescue by welcoming the new arrivals.

“Hey there, Dr. Bingley. We are just tickled pink that you have joined us today. Everyone is looking forward to getting to know you and your lovely sister.”

Mr. Lucas paused and smiled warmly at Caroline who deigned to make a curt nod in return. Dr. Bingley blushed slightly, embarrassed at his sister's rude behavior. However, Mr. Lucas simply continued with his warm greeting.

“I hope that you are ready for your first barn raising.”

“I am, Mr. Lucas. In fact, I have been looking forward to it,” Bingley replied with a smile of his own.

“Capital. Capital.”

Out of the corner of his eye Mr. Lucas saw his wife glare at him and send a pointed glance over at his daughter. He received her message loud and clear and decided he had better act if he wanted to eat. He placed his work-roughened hand on the young doctor's shoulder and began to guide him away from the carriage.

“Well then, Mr. Bingley. Come along and I will introduce you to some people. Perhaps starting with my family?”

“First Mr. Lucas, allow me to introduce my oldest friend, Fitzwilliam Darcy.”

With this statement Bingley turned to the dark man who stood behind him.

“Howdy, Darcy. Please to meet yuh.”

Darcy's eyes darkened in a menacing glare.

Although Mr. Lucas had been oblivious to Caroline's icy response, Darcy's steely gaze was impossible to miss. Mr. Lucas wisely decided to forego the customary handshake and merely tipped his hat in greeting. Eager to lighten the suddenly tense atmosphere, Mr. Lucas quickly turned and led Bingley and Caroline into the crowd. Darcy knotted Tempest's lead to a fence post and counted to ten before facing the throng of curious people before him.

Lizzy made the expected small talk and mouthed the required greetings before she hastily claimed a seat on one of the wooden benches. Loosening her bonnet strings, she positioned herself so she could observe everything that was going on in the farmyard. Mr. Martin was beginning to organize the men into work teams so that the construction could begin when the sound of an approaching buggy drew the attention of the crowd.

Lizzy turned her head to see a fashionable buggy drive into the yard followed by a massive ebony stallion. The buggy contained a young blond man and a tall woman who was wearing a bright orange dress that was much too formal for the day's events. The stallion's rider was a large, powerfully built man who was clothed in a jet black ensemble. Lizzy watched as Mr. Lucas abandoned his work team and waddled toward the trio. Lizzy also noticed that Jane seemed to be suddenly staring at the ground and her cheeks looked unusually pink.

Having completely taken in the scene, Lizzy sat back and exercised her quick wit to reach a multitude of deductions. First, Mr. Lucas was obviously acquainted with the new arrivals. Secondly, the blond man must be Dr. Bingley and the orange clad woman his sister, Caroline. Thirdly, the mysterious rider must be the man in black who was reportedly staying with Dr. Bingley and finally, that Jane seemed to like Dr. Bingley a great deal more than she had let on.

Lizzy's deductions were confirmed when she heard Mr. Lucas greet the new doctor in his loud, jovial manner. Lizzy continued to observe the exchange between Dr. Bingley and Mr. Lucas, but found that her mind was quickly drawn back to the only remaining mystery.

Who was that man in black?

He had dismounted and now stood slightly behind Dr. Bingley. Lizzy made a thorough perusal of his person hoping to find a clue to his identity. She was unsuccessful in her search, but she was still unable to pull her attention from the man. Something about him captured and held her interest.

Maybe I am merely preoccupied by his dark, good looks? Or perhaps it is the aura of mystery and power that surrounds him? Wait a minute…I know, it's his horse. Lizzy chuckled to herself as she continued to study the man.

He was undeniably intimidating and the gun belt around his waist simply increased the shadow of fear cast by his forbidding presence. His posture was stiff and his eyes steadily scanned his surroundings as if some danger lurked within the stable yard waiting to attack. His broad shoulders and muscular frame testified that he could take care of himself and was in no need of assistance from anyone. Yet as he stood there silhouetted by the morning sun, somehow he looked alone and strangely vulnerable.

Lizzy was pondering this odd thought when she was summoned to her mother's side with her usual, but not so subtle, wink. Jane was already beside her and enduring their mother's numerous observations on the many charms of Dr. Bingley and his sister. Regretfully putting all thoughts of the man in black out of her head, Lizzy went to rescue her sister.

Bingley and Caroline followed as Mr. Lucas ushered them across the yard and into the swarm of chattering females. Darcy reluctantly abandoned Tempest and intrepidly strode into the sea of simpering femininity.

Mr. Lucas stopped beside a plump older woman and a tall, rather plain girl.

“Dr. Bingley, this is my wife, Agnes, and my daughter, Charlotte.”

“Pleased to meet you, Mrs. Lucas. Miss Lucas.”

Bingley smiled at the two women and then turned to Caroline.

“Allow me to introduce my sister, Caroline, and my oldest friend, Fitzwilliam Darcy.”

Caroline executed a perfect curtsey and Darcy tipped his hat. Neither said a word.

At this point the introduction was interrupted by the arrival of Mrs. Bennet. Jane and Lizzy had attempted to prevent their mother's rude behavior, but to no avail. Mrs. Bennet was determined to meet Dr. Bingley now.

“Good morning, Mrs. Lucas. Charlotte.” Mrs. Bennet greeted the ladies in a rush, completely ignored Caroline, and then turned her undivided attention to the young doctor.

“Oh, you must be Dr. Bingley. I am Mrs. Bennet.”

Bingley was quite shocked by the abrupt intrusion of this strange woman until he discovered her connection to his beloved Jane and then she was instantly forgiven. Surely, the woman that had given birth to such an angelic creature could not be that awful.

“You are quite welcome in Meryton, Sir. We have needed a doctor so badly. I was just telling Mrs. Lucas the other day….”

At this point, Bingley ceased to listen to Mrs. Bennet's shrill observations and instead began the much happier pursuit of searching for Jane. He saw her standing beside another girl, but Bingley failed to notice her companion. He could only stare at Jane as she blushed under his worshipful gaze.

Dr. Bingley's inattention did not go unnoticed by Mrs. Bennet, especially when he failed to respond to several of her questions. She turned to find the source of his distraction and was overjoyed to see that the object of his attention seemed to be her eldest daughter. In fact, the young doctor looked completely besotted. Good work, Jane. What a catch and after only one meeting! I can see an April wedding now… I always knew that she could not be so beautiful for nothing.

“Dr. Bingley, you must come and meet my daughters!”

Dr. Bingley was jolted back to reality by the sound of Mrs. Bennet's voice speaking loudly right beside his ear. To his amazement she had the audacity to take his arm and practically drag him toward Jane. He could have attempted to resist Mrs. Bennet, but why bother when every step was carrying him closer to his beloved.

“This is Jane, my eldest, but I believe that you two have already met.”

“Hello, Jane.” The warmth in Bingley's eyes was evident in his voice as he studied the way her blue dress emphasized Jane's cornflower colored eyes.

Jane glanced down at her shoes and managed to whisper a response.

“I am delighted to see you again. I want to apologize for my quick exit last week, but the arrival of my friend was quite unexpected.”

“Oh, that is quite alright, Dr. Bingley. I completely understand.”

Bingley's heart swelled as Jane met his eyes with a sweet, understanding smile.

Mrs. Bennet twisted her hands in pure delight. One daughter down, four more to go. Her hopeful attention was quickly drawn to Dr. Bingley's dark friend. To this end, she continued with the introductions.

“This is Elizabeth.” She gestured to the cheerful looking brunette beside Jane. “Mary is over there at the dessert table and Kitty and Lydia are busy greeting some of the other men.”

“Yes, I had the pleasure of meeting Miss Kitty last week at the schoolhouse. I have enjoyed getting to know everyone here in Meryton.”

“I understand that this is your first barn raising, Dr. Bingley. Is that true?”

“Yes, Mrs. Bennet. I am quite excited to be here. I am looking forward to a day of hard work and good food.”

“But Dr. Bingley, you failed to mention the dancing!” Mrs. Bennet was truly scandalized. “The dancing is the highlight of any barn raising. We must be sure that you enjoy your first barn raising to the fullest.”

“Thank you, m'am. Perhaps, Jane will consent to be my teacher for this new western experience,” Bingley said with gentle teasing evident in his voice.

“Is this your friend's first barn raising as well?” Mrs. Bennet asked forwardly. “Perhaps I could find a companion for you as well, Mr. Darcy.” Mrs. Bennet nudged Lizzy forward with a predatory grin.

Darcy had reached the end of his patience with this woman's tedious prattle. Something had to be done.

“Thank you Mrs. Bennet, but I am quite capable of finding my own way and my own company.” Having said his piece, Darcy turned abruptly and retreated to the sanctuary of the fence post beside Tempest.

The small group watched Darcy's exit with a variety of reactions. Caroline immediately rushed to his side to console him. Bingley bade the Bennets an embarrassed goodbye and went to rescue his friend from the zealous attentions of his sister. Jane drifted in a dreamy cloud of contentment while Mrs. Bennet huffed her displeasure and quickly sought the company of several other women to vent her frustrations. Lizzy rejoiced in his ability to stand up to her mother, laughed at his poor manners, and was slightly offended at how quickly he had refused her company.

A myriad of emotions swirled through the assembled group as the real work of the day began.

As the sun sank behind the Rocky Mountains, the citizens of Meryton cleared the tables, shed their hats and bonnets, and gathered in the newly framed barn to the sound of tuning fiddles. Soon, skirts swirled and boots stomped in rhythm to lively tunes.

As soon as work on the barn had ended, Dr. Bingley had quickly claimed a seat beside Jane at the supper tables. Now he swept her smoothly across the floor as Mrs. Bennet looked on with greedy glee shining in her eyes. Caroline had plastered herself to Mr. Darcy's side and practically dragged him on to the dance floor. Lizzy was dancing with Joseph Miller, Kitty and Dan swayed together, and Lydia romped energetically with Frank Churchill. To her mother's shame, Mary sat by herself without a partner despite the supreme flaky tenderness of her pie crusts.

About an hour into the dancing the fiddlers stopped for a break. The dancers dispersed in search of cool drinks. Joseph Miller escorted Lizzy to the refreshment table where she took a glass of lemonade and retreated to a bench along the far wall. She had just taken a small sip of her lemonade when she was joined by Charlotte. The two young women carried on a pleasant conversation about the events of the day while they continued to watch the crowd of people before them.

Lizzy saw that Jane and Dr. Bingley were enjoying their cookies and lemonade at a table in the corner. Both of their faces glowed with the obvious pleasure they found in one another's company. Lizzy was delighted that her dear sister had finally found an amiable and charming man. If only there were such another man for me, she thought wistfully. Well, not exactly like Dr. Bingley for we would not suit at all. I need someone who is my equal it wit and determination. Perhaps George Wickham could be that man?

Lizzy was startled from her musings when Joseph Miller approached once again as the dancing resumed. Joseph glanced between her and Charlotte and seemed to be fighting in an inner battle with himself. Eventually, he turned and asked Charlotte to dance. Lizzy was aware that Charlotte had spent most the evening sitting alone on the edge of the dance floor. Lizzy appreciated Joseph's thoughtful gesture and returned his apologetic smile when he led Charlotte out onto the floor. My feet are tired anyway.

During her chat with Charlotte and her observations, Lizzy had failed to notice that Mr. Darcy had finally stopped his restless roving and stationed himself in the shadowed corner to her right. Lizzy only became aware of his presence when she saw that Dr. Bingley was crossing the floor in her direction. At first she thought that he was coming to speak to her, but he passed by her with nothing more than a polite nod and smile. When Lizzy turned her head to see where he was going, she finally saw Mr. Darcy standing in the shadows behind her.

Hell. This has to be what hell is like, Darcy grumbled internally to himself. The evening had been pure torture. At the beginning of the night he had been forced to endure the suffocating attention of Caroline, the admiring leers of ambitious young females, and the incessant buzz of whispered speculation. However, Mrs. Bennet's embellished version of his encounter with her and his refusal to join in the dancing soon resulted in other equally painful consequences. He still had to deal with Caroline, but now he was the target of numerous disdainful glares and the sound of mocking laughter assailed his ears. Even Bingley had deserted him for his blond angel. In an attempt to preserve his dignity and to avoid more ridicule, Darcy had retreated behind an insurmountable fortress of reserve and sought sanctuary in the shadows.

Darcy thought that he had successfully escaped for the remainder of the evening until he saw Bingley coming toward him. Bingley's face was aglow with joy and his trademark smile as he greeted Darcy with a warm chuckle and a manly slap on his shoulder.

“Darcy, what on earth are you doing skulking here in the corner? Come and dance.”

“No, Bingley.”

“You have only danced with Caroline tonight and I know that you couldn't have really enjoyed that! Now come and dance!”

“I will not.” Darcy set his jaw and crossed his arms in a stance of firm resolution.

“Why ever not?” Bingley's eyebrows lifted and his jaw dropped in disbelief.

“Dance with these people! You must be drunk.”

“Darcy, you know for a fact that I am perfectly sober.”

“Are you?” Darcy asked with feigned doubt.

“You are just trying to change the subject. I know you too well, Darce.” Bingley said with a pleased smirk. “I haven't had a drop of alcohol tonight, but …I may be drunk on love.” Bingley sighed blissfully and looked across the room to where he had left Jane.

“I hadn't noticed,” Darcy stated dryly.

Darcy's sarcasm was completely lost on Bingley.

“Come man, admit it. She's an angel!”

“She smiles too much.”

“You are hopeless, Darcy.” Bingley laughed and shook his head at his friend's stubbornness. “Still Darcy, you must come and dance!”

Bingley glanced around the room to find a suitable partner for his friend. He was in the middle of his search when he remembered that Elizabeth was seated just a short distance away.

“Come on, Darcy. There is one of Jane's sisters. She is very pretty, too. I am sure that she would make you a charming dancing partner. Now get over there and ask her to dance!” Bingley nudged his reluctant friend in her direction.

Darcy allowed his gaze to quickly skim over her features.

“She is tolerable I suppose, but not pretty enough to tempt me.” The volume of Darcy's voice began to climb with his rising agitation. “I am in no mood to dance with a wallflower! Go back to your partner. Enjoy her smiles. You are wasting your time with me.”

“Fine, Darcy. Have it your way.”

Darcy watched as Bingley happily returned to Jane's side. Out of the corner of his left eye he caught a movement. The Bennet girl that he and Bingley had just been discussing had risen from her seat and crossed the room to rejoin Miss Lucas at the refreshment table.

Darcy followed her progress with his eyes and watched as she began whispering animatedly to her companion.

Surely, she couldn't hear what we were discussing over the music!

As soon as this thought has entered his mind, the young woman raised her eyes to directly meet his gaze. She stared back unflinchingly.

She had heard.

He watched her whisper something else which resulted in heartfelt laughter from Miss Lucas. She met his gaze once again as her mouth turned up in a mocking grin and a laughing challenge filled her eyes.

Darcy knew without a doubt that she was laughing at him.

Chapter 8

Posted on Wednesday, 23 April 2003

The church bell rang out as the citizens of Meryton filed down the steps of the small clapboard church. Reverend Elton stood at the door and greeted everyone as they exited into the morning sunshine. A light breeze drifted across the plains wafting the scent of wildflowers into town.

Elizabeth shook hands with Reverend Elton and watched as her mother charged across the churchyard to speak with her Aunt Gladys. Lydia and Kitty were openly flirting with a crowd of young cowboys from surrounding ranches while Dan Whittier hovered on the fringes of the group in the hope that Kitty would send him a smile. Behind her, Elizabeth could hear Mary questioning Reverend Elton about his interpretation of the scripture passage for the sermon this morning. Unsurprisingly, Jane had quickly abandoned her for the company of the charming Dr. Bingley and her father had been pulled aside by several ranchers who all wore serious expressions. Lizzy longed to join their discussion, but knew that this action would only expose her entire family to ridicule. However, there was nothing to stop her from casually moving closer to their location.

Lizzy slowly inched toward the group of ranchers. She tried to look inconspicuous, but she was unable to shake the unnerving feeling that someone was watching her. Fighting the desire to glance over her shoulder, Lizzy continued strolling toward her objective.

Lizzy halted in the shadow cast by the church building. Hopefully, any observer would simply think that she was seeking refuge from the warm sunshine. She fanned herself lightly to enhance her illusion. From her new position, Lizzy could easily distinguish the hushed conversation of the men.

“They stuck again last night. Ed Farris's place. No one was shot, but they got away with quite a few cattle.”

“We ain't ever had rustlers around Meryton before. I wonder why it's started now?”

“Well, we have to do something to stop it if we want to keep our herds intact! They have hit most of the ranches this side of the Platte.”

“They haven't hit Longbourne yet.”

“Well, I wouldn't say that very loudly if I was you, Tom.”

A gentle tap on her shoulder startled Lizzy and caused her to jump and let out a little squeal of surprise.

“Lizzy, are you alright?” Charlotte looked genuinely concerned. “I didn't mean to scare you.”

“No, I am fine. You just startled me out of a day dream.” Lizzy asked a quick prayer of forgiveness for her little white lie.

“Good. I just thought that I would come over for a friendly chat.”

Charlotte launched into an animated analysis of the Martin's barn raising. Lizzy struggled to tune Charlotte out and strained to still follow the men's conversation. After about ten seconds, Lizzy was forced to admit defeat. In resignation, she turned her attention to her friend and the activity in the churchyard.

The first thing that caught her attention was that Jane and Dr. Bingley seemed to have vanished. Lizzy glanced over at her mother and saw that her face bore a smug and extremely pleased expression. Following her mother's gaze, Lizzy was quickly able to locate the source of her mother's joy and her missing sister. Dr. Bingley was handing Jane up into his buggy. He climbed up beside her, lightly applied the buggy whip to his team, and the pair set off across the plains.

“Dr. Bingley is certainly paying a lot of attention to Jane. I saw him watching her in church this morning and now an invitation for an afternoon buggy ride.” Charlotte noted with amused interest.

“Yes, Dr. Bingley seems to like Jane and I am very happy for her, Charlotte.”

“And how does Jane feel about Dr. Bingley?”

“I think that she likes him quite a bit, Charlotte. In fact, if he continues to court her she will probably fall in love with him.”

“Really, Elizabeth?”

“Mm Hmm, I believe that she has begun to fall already, but Jane tends to keep her feelings and emotions to herself.”

“She should make sure that Dr. Bingley knows how she feels,” Charlotte insisted. “In fact, she should show him even more affection that she feels, not less if she is catch him.”

“Catch him? Isn't the man supposed to do the `catching', Charlotte? You know that you would never act like that yourself.”

“Women cannot leave an important matter like marriage in the hands of men! Jane must do what she can to move their relationship forward.”

“I doubt that Jane will do that, Charlotte.”

“Well, if she won't than we must hope that Dr. Bingley will.”

The only response that Lizzy made was doubtful look. Charlotte realized that this line of conversation had been exhausted and returned her attention to the parishioners that were still gathered and visiting. Charlotte smiled inwardly when she noticed something that intrigued her.

“Mr. Darcy is looking at you, Lizzy. I also noticed that he was watching you in church this morning.”

Lizzy quickly located the man in question. He was standing beside his beautiful horse, face impassive, but his dark eyes were unmistakably focused on her. She shook her head slightly and looked away.

“I don't know why. Just last night he did not think that I was pretty enough to even dance with.”

A high-pitched squeal rang out followed by a loud snort. At once, Lizzy realized that her sister Lydia was getting into mischief again. Lydia pulled Kitty by the hand as they ran recklessly behind the group of cowboys toward a wagon. Their skirts were pulled up and their bonnets were flying out behind them. Poor Dan Whittier had given up on Kitty, untied his horse, mounted up, and headed for home.

Lizzy made her excuses to Charlotte and hustled over to prevent her sisters from making an even bigger scene.

At the dance the following night, Darcy had only looked at Elizabeth Bennet to criticize and he had concluded that she was quite plain. However this morning when he had seen her walk into church beside her sister, he had been forced to change his opinion.

She really is almost… pretty. Not beautiful by any means, but pretty. She certainly wasn't as beautiful as the dawn rider that he had secretly watched every morning since his arrival in Meryton. However, I must admit that her dark eyes are simply…..well…mesmerizing.

Still despite her flaws, Darcy was finding it hard to keep his eyes from following Elizabeth Bennet. Fascinated, he had watched as she had maneuvered herself so that she could eavesdrop on the conversation of the ranchers and he had barely managed to hold back his chuckles of amusement at her success. The arrival of Miss Lucas had spoiled his fun, but he continued to study the woman before him. That is until he wad rudely interrupted by the arrival of his friend.

“Darcy, I am going to take Miss Bennet on a buggy ride. Would you make sure that Caroline gets home safely?”

Darcy wanted to scold Bingley for sneaking up on him, but he was distracted when he saw that Bingley was practically trembling with nervous excitement.

Darcy was revolted at the idea of escorting Caroline home, but he couldn't ruin Bingley's obvious anticipation. Darcy nodded and Bingley trotted over to join Jane by the buggy. Darcy watched the buggy pull away and once again failed to notice that someone had joined him.

“What a charming activity that is for young people! There is nothing like a buggy ride, you know. It is one of the Sunday traditions here in Meryton,” Mr. Lucas fondly related with a gentle nudge of his elbow to Darcy's ribs.

“And in every other western town,” Darcy sneered. “You can go for a buggy ride anytime, anywhere.”

“Sure…sure...”

At this moment, Mr. Lucas noted that Miss Elizabeth Bennet was walking in their direction.

“Well then Mr. Darcy, perhaps it is the company that makes the difference.” Mr. Lucas called out to Elizabeth and motioned for her to join them.

Lizzy was trapped. There was no way that she could refuse to respond to Mr. Lucas' summons. If she did, she would insult both Mr. Darcy and Mr. Lucas. She straightened her back and joined the two men. When she reached them, Mr. Lucas quickly grasped her hand.

“Miss Elizabeth, why are you not out on a buggy ride?” Mr. Lucas rushed on, not waiting for a response. “Mr. Darcy, allow me to introduce Miss Bennet as a most charming companion for an afternoon excursion. Surely, you cannot refuse to go for a buggy ride with such a beautiful young lady at your side? I'll even lend you my buggy.”

At this suggestion, Lizzy felt that she had to interrupt.

“Mr. Lucas, I did not come over here to find transportation. I was only on my way to talk to my younger sisters.”

Darcy noted that embarrassment had tinted her cheeks a pleasant shade of pink. The slight blush only enhanced her appearance in his eyes, but he could tell that she was uncomfortable. He felt obligated to save her from her current dilemma.

“Would you please accompany me on a buggy ride, Miss Bennet?” Darcy asked formally and was shocked to find that his request was sincere. He did want to take Elizabeth Bennet on a buggy ride!

“Thank you Mr. Darcy, but I do not feel like a ride today.”

“Why not?” demanded Mr. Lucas. “Mr. Darcy is ready and willing to go although he normally dislikes buggy rides. It is a perfect afternoon for a short journey across the prairie. Who could possibly waste such a gorgeous day and such a pretty companion?”

“I am sorry, but Mr. Darcy will simply have to find another lady to keep him company.”

With that comment, Lizzy turned and walked away, leaving the two men to stare after her. Mr. Lucas quickly shuffled away to chat with someone else, but Darcy continued to watch Miss Bennet as she loving and gracefully calmed her sisters wild behavior.

When Caroline found Darcy a few minutes later, he was still observing Elizabeth. After the service, Caroline had been detained by the chatter of Mrs. Lucas, but now she was more than ready to return to the blissful serenity of her home. She snugly linked her arm through Darcy's and began to pull him away from the church.

“Come on, William. Take me home now!” she whined.

Darcy had no choice but to follow her because she was clinging to his arm. Tempest followed behind as Darcy held his lead rope with his free hand. As they walked down the street, Caroline complained and moaned about the service, the weather, and the citizens of Meryton. Darcy was content to let Caroline ramble on because it gave him the freedom to explore his own reflections on the morning. Several minutes passed this way until Caroline noticed that Darcy had failed to make any response whatsoever. She looked up at her future husband and saw a dreamy, far-off expression in his eyes. Calling his name brought no response, so she was forced to pull on his arm to get his attention.
Darcy shot a dark glare at her action, but Caroline had succeeded.

“I'll bet that I can guess what you are thinking, William.”

“I'll bet that you can't,” he replied shortly.

“You are thinking about how boring it would be to live in such a tiny town and with such simple people.”

“No, Caroline. My thoughts were much happier than that.” Darcy paused and the dreamy glaze returned to his eyes. “I was thinking about a pair of lovely eyes.”

“And who do these `lovely' eyes belong to?” Caroline asked flirtatiously and clasped Darcy's arm closer to her side.

“Miss Elizabeth Bennet.”

Caroline flushed with rage, ready to explode, but somehow managed to swallow her fury and respond.

“Miss Elizabeth Bennet? Fitzwilliam, I am utterly shocked!”

Darcy's jaw tightened at her use of his Christian name, but he managed to contain the rising flares of his temper. They both fumed silently until they reached the house to the door, Caroline abruptly abandoned Darcy's arm and stopped onto the porch.

“Have you picked a wedding date yet? I am sure that you will be very happy! In fact, you deserve each other!” Caroline was screaming by now. Darcy said nothing which only served to infuriate her further. She stormed into the house leaving the screen door to bang shut behind her.

Darcy simply remounted Tempest and rode out of town to avoid the inevitable tantrum that Caroline would throw.

Chapter 9

Posted on Wednesday, 30 April 2003, at

Cold drizzle rained down from dark clouds and a fierce icy wind howled across the lonely plains. Fall had arrived. Jane hunched forward in her saddle and pulled her wool cloak tightly beneath her chin. Despite her numerous layers of clothing, the combination of wind and rain had managed to chill her to the bone. She was tempted to turn back and go home. Lydia, Kitty, and Mary had all caught colds and were spending the day in bed tucked snugly beneath their quilts and slurping Hill's chicken soup. Jane had woken with a slight sniffle and nothing kept Lizzy in bed. So Jane had saddled Nellie and left for work because she knew that the children would be waiting for her.

By the time Jane reached the schoolhouse she felt like she was frozen stiff. Thankfully, a fire was already burning in the small stove and Jane rushed to its welcoming warmth.

Thank you, Dan, Jane thought blissfully. Why can't Kitty see what a treasure you are?

Partially thawed, Jane removed her cloak and tidied her desk for the day.

It wasn't until the middle of her history lecture on the Second Continental Congress that Jane realized that her sniffle had developed into something more serious over the course of the day. Pain ached from every joint and her head throbbed incessantly. She just couldn't seem to get warm, but her cheeks were flushed. The letters on the board blurred in front of her and the room swam before her eyes before she slumped to the floor.

Bingley was spending the rainy afternoon doing some paperwork at his desk. Darcy was seated with a book in the arm chair in the corner. They were both chatting idly when the bell over the clinic door chimed to announce the arrival of a visitor. Bingley looked up to see Dan Whittier standing just inside the door drenched to the skin, his hair plastered to his forehead, and his chest heaving from his run through the rain.

“Good heavens, Dan! What's wrong?”

“It's Miss Bennet, Dr. Bingley. She fainted while she was teaching.”

Bingley's face blanched visibly. “Jane or Kitty?”

“Jane, sir.”

“Caroline!” Darcy silently left the room as Bingley bellowed for his sister.

Caroline responded immediately and came into the room because she was shocked to hear the authoritative tone in her brother's voice.

“Get this boy some dry clothes, get water boiling and prepare the bed in the clinic. I need to get to the school! There isn't a moment to lose!”

Caroline turned and hurried to do what she was ordered. Bingley was pulling on his boots when Darcy returned carrying a thick blanket and his oilskin jacket. Bingley flung on his own jacket, took the objects from Darcy's arms, grabbed his black bag, and plunged into the downpour outside.

Darcy stood in the doorway and chuckled as he watched Bingley sprint down Main Street, oblivious to any mud puddles in his path.

When Bingley reached the schoolhouse, he found the students crowded around Jane at the front of the room. Bingley pushed through the crowd, knelt by her side and pulled open his black bag. After a quick examination, Bingley assessed that Jane was running a high fever and had hit her head when she had fallen.

“Miss Bennet? This is Dr. Bingley. Can you hear me?”

A low moan rose from Jane's throat as a response.

“Miss Bennet, I need to get you back to my clinic. Can you place your arms around my neck?”

This time Jane's eyes slowly crept open and her head fell slightly forward. Bingley interpreted this as an affirmative response. He lifted Jane's head and shoulders so he could wrap the blanket and Darcy's jacket around her delicate frame. Then he placed her arms around his neck and scooped her up into his arms.

“School will be canceled until further notice. Go ahead and head on home, but make sure you bundle up. I don't want to see any of you in my office tomorrow morning.”

Bingley walked out the door and was halfway down the steps when a small girl came chasing after him.

“Dr. Bingley, you forgot your bag.”

The little girl placed the bag in Jane's lap, waved sweetly, and hurried back inside.

As Bingley sloshed back toward the clinic he wondered if he was sick for savoring the sensation of carrying Jane when she was clearly very ill. It was a very romantic experience and he was feeling rather heroic as he clasped his fair maiden to his chest.

However, his angel was sick and there wasn't a moment to lose.

The next time Jane opened her eyes she found herself in a strange bed in an unfamiliar room. She tried to look around her to discover where she was, but she felt exhausted and weak.

“Oh good, you're finally awake,” commented a masculine voice from her left.

Jane managed to turn her head toward the voice. Dr. Bingley sat in a wooden chair in the corner, book in hand and stethoscope dangling around his neck.

“Where am I?” Jane croaked out through her dry mouth.

“You are at my clinic. It seems that you fainted while you were teaching. Dan Whittier came to fetch me and I brought you here. You have a fever, a cold, and you hit your head rather hard when you fell. I am also going to have to watch you for symptoms of pneumonia. ”

As he talked to her he leaned forward and replaced the compress on her forehead with a fresh cool one.

“Thank you,” Jane whispered.

“Just doing my job,” Bingley commented but he trailed his fingers down her check in an affectionate gesture as he moved back away.

“I'll have Caroline bring in some food and then you should rest again. You will be staying here until you are completely recovered. Those are the doctor's orders.”

Jane giggled at his light humor and studied the laugh lines at the corners of his eyes.

What a nice and handsome man he is! Jane mused.

As Bingley began to leave the room Jane called out to him.

“What time is it?”

Bingley glanced at his pocket watch.

“It is almost six in the evening. Why do you ask?”

“My family will be terribly worried that I am not home yet.”

“I had Dan stop there on his way home to let them know that you are all right.”

“I see that I have much to thank him for.”

“He is an excellent young man.”

“Yes, he is.”

“Goodnight Jane.”

She blushed and ducked her head which only made Bingley's smile stretch wider.

“Goodnight, Charles.”

Lizzy trotted down the stairs to find a full breakfast laid in front of her place at the table.

Dear Hill, what would we do without you?

Lizzy sat down and began to eat her eggs in a hurry. She planned to leave as soon as possible. Her father entered and joined her at the table in silence. They both sipped their steaming coffee with satisfaction until Mrs. Bennet clopped down the stairs.

“Good morning.” Mrs. Bennet stopped behind her husband with her hand resting on his shoulder.

“Morning, Fanny.” Mr. Bennet reached up and clasped his wife's hand. It was rare to find his wife so quiet and subdued.

The calm was broken however when Lizzy finished her coffee and rose to leave.

“Well, I'm off to Meryton. Don't hold supper for me.” She plopped her hat on her head and pushed the screen door open.”

“Wait just a minute, young lady!” ordered her mother. “What do you mean `off to Meryton'? Why on earth would you be going to Meryton?”

“I am going to visit Jane at Dr. Bingley's clinic.”

“There is no reason for you to go to clinic. Jane will be very well looked after. He is a doctor after all. You had much better stay here at the ranch. Or better yet, have lunch at the café and meet some of the new young men in town.”

“I know that Jane would want me to come, mother. I am quite determined.”

Mrs. Bennet was not satisfied, but there seemed to be little that she could do to stop her rather headstrong daughter.

“Well, if you insist on being stubborn you can take the wagon. Now run upstairs and put on your green calico dress. You can't go into town dressed like that!”

“I shall ride Austen, mother. It is merely three miles to Meryton and I'll be back for supper.”

“Ride Austen! In all that mud! You won't be fit to be seen!”

“I'll be fit to see Jane which is all that I want.”

“Thomas! Do something!” Mrs. Bennet was beyond frustration now.

Mr. Bennet merely shrugged his shoulders at his wife. Taking advantage of her mother's momentary distraction, Lizzy ran out the door and down the steps to where Clancy had Austen saddled and waiting. Mrs. Bennet turned to find that her daughter had escaped. She rushed to the screen door and yelled out.

“Elizabeth Victoria Bennet, you're going to be the death of me!”

Lizzy heard her mother's voice echo through the still morning air, but she merely dug her heels into Austen's sides and galloped towards Meryton.

Darcy returned from his morning ride feeling oddly unsettled and disappointed. His dawn rider had not appeared today. It was the first time since his arrival in Meryton that she had failed to greet the sunrise. He missed seeing her and his morning ride seemed incomplete somehow.

I wonder why she didn't ride this morning? She was there yesterday despite the rain and cold weather. What happened to keep her away this morning? Perhaps she was injured or took ill?

Intent upon his questions and worries, Darcy failed to notice that he had arrived at the outskirts of Meryton. He rode blindly past the church, Lucas' store, and the café without really seeing anything. Tempest automatically halted in front of the clinic even though his master had not given any kind of command. Darcy dismounted, but remained lost in his thoughts. He stood there numbly with his hands gently stroking Tempest's muzzle and gazing off into oblivion. Finally, Darcy's daze was shattered by the sound of an approaching horse.

He turned to find the answer to all of his questions and thoughts approaching him at a rapid pace. The chestnut mare and her slender rider were unmistakable. He was finally going to see his dawn rider face to face. Once again, Darcy admired the skill and confidence of her riding. To his surprise and pleasure, the woman began to slow her horse as she approached the clinic. Mud was splattered across her pants and her white blouse ruffled in the wind. Her wild curls tumbled freely down onto her shoulders in a riotous mass. Hoping to discover her identity, Darcy struggled to catch a glimpse of her face, but her gray hat cast a shadow which concealed her features.

The mare trotted up beside Tempest. His dawn companion stopped her horse with the lovingly whispered command of “Whoa, Austen.” With her back still facing him, she gracefully slid from the saddle and landed directly in a deep puddle. Seemingly unfazed by the mud now caked on her boots, she brushed a few wayward curls back behind her ears and tied the mare to the fence post.

Without conscious thought, Darcy held his breath and waited for her to turn and face him.

She turned slowly and Darcy's breath left his lungs in a rush as he saw her face for the first time. Immediately, he was drawn to her eyes. Her dark, mesmerizing eyes.

“Good morning, Mr. Darcy,” Elizabeth Bennet greeted him politely. “I have come to check on my sister. Could you please take me to see her?”

Incapable of speech, Darcy merely stared at her with wide-eyed wonder. The discovery that his dawn rider and Elizabeth Bennet were one in the same shocked Darcy all the way to the soles of his boots.

How can this be? How can the beautiful woman that I have admired every morning be part of that family! This is a dream... an awful dream. It can't be true.

The sound of a discreet cough summoned his attention back to the woman before him and confirmed that he was indeed awake. Miss Bennet was staring curiously at him and somehow he managed to make his head nod in assent.

As they stepped onto the porch, Darcy's confusion began to clear and cold reason returned. He held the door as Miss Bennet scraped the mud off of her riding boots.

Well, at least she has some manners, he thought with a sneer and he followed her into the house.

Chapter 10

Posted on Monday, 25 August 2003

The unexpected arrival of another Miss Bennet had caused a serious disruption in the doctor's household and breakfast had to be delayed. Caroline was incensed that her daily schedule had been upset by a woman like Elizabeth Bennet. While she sulked in the parlor, her brother sought to provide for any need of the two Bennet sisters and Darcy merely leaned against the clinic doorframe in silent observation. Finally, Elizabeth assured Dr. Bingley that she was happily settled at her sister's bedside. Darcy leaned in the doorway as Charles reluctantly left Jane's side and the two men proceeded into the dining room to take their places at the table.

“Caro, we're ready now!” Bingley called out to his sister.

Caroline flounced into the room with obvious annoyance. Both men ignored her grand entrance which only increased Caroline's ire.

“Finally!” she groused as she plopped into her seat and spread her napkin in her lap. “The audacity of that woman to show up here without any reason!”

“She had a reason, Caro,” Bingley stated calmly. “She came to check on her sister's condition.”

“Yes, but what was she thinking riding all the way into town just because her sister has the sniffles.”

“It shows love for her sister that I have to admire.”

Having been defeated in that line of attack, Caroline quickly took up another. “… And the way she looked this morning. She really looked almost…wild! I could barely conceal my astonishment and disbelief.”

Bingley could not deny that Miss Bennet had been quite disheveled after her ride into town. He glanced at Darcy for help, but his friend seemed to be focused on the meal before him and he was forced to continue alone.

“I thought that Miss Bennet looked rather nice this morning.”

Caroline hurried to take advantage of her brother's ridiculous response.

“Nice? Charles, really! Her hair was tangled, her boots were caked with mud, her blouse was splattered, and she was wearing trousers. Men's trousers, Charles! Bless my soul, when I first saw her I thought that she was a ranch hand.”

A loud snort from Darcy revealed that he was following the conversation. Caroline turned toward him with eager glee.

“I am sure that you noticed her appearance, Mr. Darcy.”

“Yes Caroline, I did.”

“I am sure that you wouldn't want your sister to wear men's clothing.”

“You are correct.”

“Perhaps her arrival this morning has changed your opinion of her `lovely' eyes?”

“Certainly not, Miss Bingley. They were sparkling with excitement from her morning ride.”

With that declaration, Darcy pushed back from the table and retreated into Bingley's office. Caroline pouted in her chair at being thwarted again by Miss Elizabeth Bennet.

Around noon it began to storm again forcing the inhabitants of Meryton to take shelter indoors. Lizzy occupied herself with one of Dr. Bingley's books as she kept her watchful vigil at Jane's beside. However, she did not make much progress in the book because she was repeatedly disturbed by Dr. Bingley's frequent “examinations” of his patient. Instead of being upset by the disruptions, Lizzy happily interpreted the doctor's diligent attention as proof of his growing attachment to her sister. Besides, it made her chuckle to see Dr. Bingley's face illuminate with joy at the mere sight of Jane as he came through the door from his office.

Darcy had retreated into the parlor with a book of his own. He had just comfortably settled into one of the large wing chairs when the sound of tapping heels alerted him to Caroline's arrival in the room. She sat on the very edge of the sofa, striving to be as close to him as possible. Seeing that Darcy was occupied with his book, she artfully arranged her skirt and picked up her needlepoint with a soft clucking sound.

It's a good thing that I sat in a chair or she might have tried to sit on my lap. Darcy laughed to himself and returned his attention to the words on the page.

Lizzy glanced out the window as dusk fell. The wind had stopped, but a light rain was still falling. Laying her book aside, she stretched her cramped muscles and rubbed her weary eyes.

What a tedious day it has been.

Rising from her wooden chair, she walked to the bed to check her sister's condition. Jane was sleeping peacefully and light color had returned to her cheeks. Seeing that her sister was fine for the moment, Lizzy decided to venture out of the house for some fresh air and to see how Austen was faring. At lunch when Caroline had questioned her about when she would be leaving for home, Dr. Bingley had refused to allow her to ride home in the stormy weather and had insisted that she spend the night to look after her sister. Lizzy doubted that this was necessary, but she gratefully accepted Dr. Bingley's kind offer because she had no desire to make the ride back to the ranch in a storm. With this settled, Lizzy had spent the remainder of the day by her sister's bedside. Now with the dinner hour approaching and the others casually chatting in the parlor, Lizzy decided she had better escape from the house while she had her chance.

Trying to avoid alerting anyone, Lizzy tiptoed across the wooden planks to the door. Grabbing a large oilskin jacket and a black hat off a hook on the wall, she decided to borrow them for her short trip to the stable. The jacket fell in gigantic waves that swallowed her petite body and the hat was so big that it almost covered her eyes. Still, they offered ample protection from the rain. Cringing at the slight creak coming from the hinge, Lizzy eased the door completely open and paused to listen for the sound of approaching footsteps. All that she could hear were the muffled voices coming from the parlor. Satisfied that she had escaped detection, she stepped out into the rain and managed to silently close the door behind her. Rain splashed around her and the mud pulled at her boots as she hurried around the side of the house to the welcome warmth of the stable.

Rivulets of water flowed off the coat and onto the straw. Lizzy nudged the hat back on her head so that she could see as she approached the stalls. Austen whinnied softly when she recognized her mistress. Beams of the pale gray light of dusk barely penetrated the dark interior of the stable. Fumbling in the dark, Lizzy located a lamp and matches on a wooden shelf beside the door. Rubbing her chilled hands together, Lizzy finally succeeded in lighting the lamp and a bright circle of light illuminated the small building. Three of the stalls were occupied. Mr. Darcy's black stallion was in the stall across the aisle from Austen and a light brown quarter horse stood in the corner stall. Lizzy was pleased to see that someone had already fed and watered the horse. Austen had been thoroughly groomed as well. Having no work to do, Lizzy leaned against the top rail of Austen's stall and began to gently stroke her forehead and neck. Lizzy allowed her mind to wander as she continued her attentions to Austen when she was startled by a low whinny from behind her and felt a nudge on her shoulder. She turned to see that Darcy's stallion had come up to his stall door and his dark eyes stared at her as if he was demanding his share of her attention. Afraid of scaring him, she cautiously reached out her hand to run her fingers through his black silky mane. The stallion responded by shifting his head closer to her hand. Lizzy's heart melted and she quickly fell in love with the massive, but gentle horse.

“You are such a handsome boy,” Lizzy murmured softly as she continued to stroke the stallion. “And so well-mannered, too. Too bad, that your master isn't half as nice as you are.”

Austen stomped her front hoof and switched her tail in obvious disapproval at being abandoned for the stallion.

“Are you jealous, Austen?” Lizzy asked with a merry laugh.

Lizzy turned so that one hand could reach each horse and she spoke to them in soothing whispers as the rain kept falling outside the snug stable.

Darcy walked slowly across the yard feeling oddly refreshed by the falling rain. His dark curls were plastered against his head and his now soaked black shirt was clinging to his body. Still, Darcy slogged on in the direction of the stable.

He had been comfortably chatting with Bingley and doing his utmost to avoid Caroline's continuous advances when Darcy had heard a sound coming from Bingley's office.

What in heaven's name is that girl up to? He had glanced at his companions to see if they had heard the noise, but they seemed to be unaware of the movement in the office. Determined not to think of Elizabeth Bennet, Darcy resolutely continued his discussion with Bingley. Darcy was successful for several minutes, but a niggling tug of curiosity in his mind refused to be quelled.

I can't help it. I want to know what that mischievous female is up to now, but how am I to slip away from Bingley and Caroline without being noticed?

Unable to think of a convincing excuse, Darcy remained seated in his chair while his mind drifted outside in pursuit of Elizabeth Bennet. Finally, Caroline had left the parlor to check on the dinner preparations and Bingley had gone upstairs to change his shirt for dinner. Darcy seized his chance and hurried into Bingley's office. There he found that not only was Miss Bennet missing, but his oilskin coat and hat as well.

Darn that woman! Darcy stalked out into the storm.

It hadn't been difficult to discover where she had gone because her small boot prints left a clear trail across the muddy yard and directly to the stable. As Darcy neared the door, he paused and sighed as he shoved hair off his forehead.

How do I get into these situations? Here I am a drenched to the skin and attempting to sneak into the stable to spy on Elizabeth Bennet. What does this woman do to me? I don't care if she is my dawn rider. She's a damn nuisance!

Shaking his head in frustration, Darcy considered returning to the house, but he was already wet and decided that he might as well see what she was up to.

Easing the stable door open, Darcy hid in the shadows beyond the circle of light that radiated from the lamp. He watched the back of her small figure as she caressed and scratched her mare. His coat engulfed her entire body and he noticed that she had rolled the sleeves back so that she could use her hands. The only sound was of the rain falling on the roof of the building creating a sense of peace.

The silence was broken when Tempest, apparently feeling neglected, had whinnied and demanded Miss Bennet's attention. When she turned, Darcy could finally see her face. She stared at Tempest for a few moments with an unreadable expression on her face. Then her hand came up and she slowly reached out to touch Tempest. Darcy looked on, entranced by her, as she stroked Tempest and murmured to him. Her spell over him was shattered when Austen stomped his rear hoof in impatience and Lizzy laughed in response.

Deciding to leave before Tempest or Miss Bennet detected his presence, Darcy slipped back out the door. As he trudged back to the house, his mind was filled with the images and sounds of Elizabeth's loving attentions to Tempest.

You know that you have problems when you are jealous of your own horse. Shaking his head, Darcy forced the image from his mind and tried to plan how he could get back into the house without anyone realizing that he had been gone.

Chapter 11

The dinner table was packed with steaming dishes of hot rolls, potatoes, chicken, and beans. Hearing a slight growl rise from her stomach, Lizzy scanned the meal with pleasure and hustled to an empty chair. Grabbing the wooden back to pull it out from the table, Lizzy suddenly found her fingers covered by a masculine hand. Glancing up into a pair of dark eyes, Lizzy paused as Darcy pulled out her chair and guided her into her seat.

“Thank you, Mr. Darcy.”

A silent nod was his only response as he took his place across from her. The Bingley's joined them at the ends of the table and the meal began with a simple prayer. Silence hung in the room as the serving dishes were passed around. Striving to be the perfect host and make a good impression on Jane's sister, Bingley struggled to think of a suitable topic of conversation. Unfortunately, Caroline beat him to it.

“William, have you heard from Georgiana recently?”

“A letter caught up with me her and I sent her a telegraph two days ago.” Darcy's tone of voice was flat and dismissive.

“Is she well? Is she enjoying the social season in St. Louis? Dear Georgiana, how I long to see her! I must say that I am quite jealous of her. St. Louis society is not as superior as that found in my beloved Philadelphia, but it must be better than the social life in this two-bit town. I am languishing for the sound of an orchestra, aching to feel the slide of a silk ball gown against my skin, hungering for the savory taste of a four course meal. You cannot experience anything like that here!”

Caroline shot a disgusted look down her nose directly at Elizabeth which Lizzy returned with a cold stare of her own. Always diplomatic, Bingley tried to forestall the battle that was about to begin across the table.

“I think…,” Bingley began before he was rudely cut off by his sister.

“I imagine that Georgi has many admirers. She was always so beautiful and poised. She must be quite an accomplished young woman by now. I am sure that she is a perfect example of the results of a quality Eastern education. Quite unlike any woman you might find here in the West.”

Darcy was a little more successful than his friend at deflecting Caroline's vitriolic comments from Elizabeth.

“I cannot think of more than half a dozen women on this entire continent that I would consider accomplished.” Darcy casually buttered another roll.

“William!” Caroline screeched. “I know numerous very accomplished young ladies.”

“Indeed, so do I,” Bingley interjected. “Young ladies in Philadelphia dance, sing, play the piano, read the classics, stitch embroidery, compose poetry, and I know not what. Then here out here in the West I find that they also cook, clean, sew, and help out their families however they can. I must say that I am quite impressed.”

“No woman can be considered accomplished without possessing an innate grace, perfect manners, and of course… natural beauty.” Caroline concluded her comments with a self-important fluff to her hair.

Darcy set his knife upon the edge of his plate and calmly looked up at his dinner companions.

“And yet to all this she must add one last thing…” Darcy's gaze shifted and settled directly upon Elizabeth. “The skill and true love of horseback riding.”

Smirking at Darcy's addition to the growing list, Lizzy decided to tease him just a little bit.

“I must say that I am surprised that you only know six accomplished women. I am rather shocked that you know any.”

Darcy's response to this comment was merely to stare intently across the table at her. After several moments, Lizzy was forced to retreat and gazed down at her half empty plate. Bingley gave up on having any meal conversation without sparking another argument so the meal concluded in silence.

After dinner everyone gathered in the parlor for the evening, while Lizzy excused herself to check on Jane. The two men quickly claimed the arm chairs and Caroline reclined on a small settee by the fire. Secretly, she hoped that the dim firelight would put her brother's friend in a more romantic mood. However, her scheme was foiled when Darcy again picked up the book that he had been reading earlier in the day. Frustrated, she sat there scowling at the fire until she heard the sound of approaching footsteps and she came up with a wonderful scheme.

For some strange reason William seems to be attracted to Miss Elizabeth. I do not understand it, but I will use it to turn his attention to me. Surely, when he sees us side by side he will recognize his mistake.

Elizabeth paused at the doorway to the parlor and took a deep breath to compose herself for what was sure to be a tedious and challenging evening. She was extremely surprised when Caroline called out to her as soon as see set foot in the room.

“Miss Eliza, come and join me in front the fire. It is so cozy.”

Not wanting to insult her hostess, Lizzy crossed the room and sat down on the other end of the settee. Caroline observed that William's eyes surreptitiously followed Miss Bennet's movements as he pretended to turn a page. Elizabeth remained oblivious to Miss Bingley's scheme and Darcy's interest. Caroline waited several minutes before making her next move. Finally seeing Darcy glancing at Miss Bennet once again, she jumped on the opportunity.

“Would you like to join us William?” Caroline invited in a syrupy voice.

Darcy had been admiring how the firelight bathed Miss Bennet in a rich, golden glow when he was abruptly addressed by Caroline. Unfazed by the sudden question and the certain knowledge that Caroline had noticed his preoccupation with Elizabeth, Darcy made a quick response.

“That would ruin the plan entirely.”

“William! What on earth do you mean? We demand an explanation!”

“Miss Bingley, I think it would be better if we simply ignore Mr. Darcy's comment.”

“Nonsense, William, tell us what you meant by that sly comment.”

“I mean that the dancing light from the fire adds a charming effect to your appearance and that I can best admire right here from my chair.”

“What an impertinent and scandalous reply!” Caroline laughed and batted her eyelashes flirtatiously. “How can we punish him, Eliza?”

“It is quite simple Miss Bingley. We will just tease and mock him.”

“Mock Mr. Darcy? How? He is a perfect man.”

“Really? A perfect man!” Elizabeth raised her right eyebrow in a skeptical glance.

“No one is perfect, but I have tried to avoid many of the common faults and weaknesses that I have observed in others.” Darcy sat forward in his chair in a defensive posture.

“Faults like….vanity…and… pride?”

“Yes, vanity is a fault indeed, but pride where there is a distinct difference in merit and honor can be appropriate and even necessary. I am not perfect, Miss Bennet. I admit that I possess a rather fiery temper. My trust once lost is lost forever.”

“That is a weakness indeed, but I will not laugh at it.”

“I believe that every person's personality has some flaw.”

“Yours is to distrust and distance everyone.”

“And yours is to make decisions about people before you really know them.”

Bingley had watched in horror as the conversation had erupted into the heated argument before him. Caroline pouted on the settee as her grand scheme backfired and drew William's attention away from her completely. Bingley had no idea what to do to end the fray he was witnessing. Fortunately, Caroline had another brilliant idea to redirect the attention to herself.

She jumped to her feet and declared, “Let's have some music!” For once, Bingley was grateful to his sister as she moved to the piano in the corner.

Darcy settled back into the cushions of the chair to replay the conversation in his mind to discover where it had gotten so out of control. Lizzy glared into the flames silently fuming. Needless to say, it was an extremely long evening.

The following morning Jane was feeling well enough to return to Longbourne. A little before noon Clancy slowed the wagon to a halt before Dr. Bingley's office. Lizzy eagerly tossed her bag into the bed and hopped onto the back. Dr. Bingley insisted on carrying Jane out to the buggy and setting her on the seat beside Clancy. The doctor waved farewell to the sisters from the front step, Caroline refused to even come to the door, and Darcy watched from the window as the wagon pulled down Main Street.

Chapter 12

Posted on Tuesday, 16 September 2003, at 10

Mixed emotions tumbled through Darcy's head as he and Bingley rode through the gate of Longbourn a few days later. Bingley wanted to check on Jane and he thought that Darcy had come along merely to escape from Caroline. In reality, he was hoping to pay his own visit to one of the other Bennet sisters. The discovery that his dawn rider was actually Miss Elizabeth Bennet continued to be a disruption as he tried to work through his thoughts and feelings. He knew that he was anticipating seeing Elizabeth again. There was just something about her playful, independent nature that inexplicably drew him to her. Yet, he felt that he should reprimand himself for having developed feelings for someone of her background. Uncomfortably, Darcy found that he was jealous of Bingley's blissful contentment. His simple and straight forward attraction to Jane was obviously not causing him the same internal conflict that he was wrestling with. Resigned to the impending meeting and the unsettled feeling in his stomach, Darcy dismounted from Tempest and looked at his surroundings.

Longbourn was definitely not what he had expected. His mind had envisioned a shabby log cabin surrounded by a few rundown outbuildings that were weathered by the harsh weather of the high plains. Instead, he was pleasantly surprised by the modest clapboard house with its wrap-around porch, the well-maintained stable and barns, and a rather cozy looking bunkhouse. The ranch buildings were nestled beside a large bend in the river. Lush prairie grass surrounded the compound and not far in the distance the foothills of the Rocky Mountains rose up against the clear blue sky.

The sound of horses arriving in the ranch yard drew Lizzy's attention away from the new horse that she was working with in the corral. She instantly recognized Mr. Darcy's stallion, Tempest. Regretfully, she handed the lead rope that she was holding to Jimmy who was sitting on a rail behind her and gracefully vaulted over the fence to greet the visitors.

Both men turned and waited when they saw Elizabeth walking towards them from the direction of stable. Darcy had immediately located Lizzy's slight feminine form and had watched in admiration as she easily cleared the fence. She approached them at a brisk pace and Darcy couldn't help admiring how her brown trousers accentuated her slender legs and the slight swaying motion of her hips.

“Good morning, Dr. Bingley. What brings you out to Longbourn?”

Elizabeth smiled warmly at Bingley, but didn't even bother to make eye contact with Darcy.

“I was out at the Purvis place on a house call and I just thought that I would drop into see how Jane is feeling. Just as a professional courtesy, of course.”

“Thank you for your concern, doctor. You interest is certainly appreciated.” Lizzy's eyes flashed with silent laughter as she mocked Bingley's “disinterested” inquiry. “She is feeling much better. She even came downstairs for breakfast today. Would you like to see for yourself?”

Bingley beamed and rushed to accept the opportunity to see his beloved angel again. “Why yes, I'll just give her a quick check-up.”

“Come on in the house then. She's probably in the parlor resting.” Three pairs of boots pounded up the porch steps together. Lizzy had her hand on the handle of the screen door when a horse trotted into the yard.

“Lizzy!” The rider called out as he dismounted. Darcy immediately bristled at the informality of the ranch hand's manners.

What was that impudent cowboy thinking to address his Elizabeth with such freedom? Wait a second, had he just referred to Miss Bennet as his! The proprietary thought thoroughly shocked him, but it was secondary to the silent fury he felt as he watched Miss Bennet skip down the steps, her cheeks flushed with obvious pleasure.

“Do you need me for something, George?” Her smile was brilliant as she stared directly into the depths of his blue eyes.

“Nothing important, Lizzy. I just thought that I would stop by to see if you wanted to meet me for lunch at our usual place.” He quickly glanced at the men on the porch and then turned back to face her. “I certainly didn't mean to disrupt whatever business you have with those gentlemen.”

Anxious to reassure him, Lizzy placed her hand on his forearm. “You didn't interrupt anything. Lunch sounds wonderful. Dr. Bingley just rode out to check on Jane. Come on, let me introduce you.” She tugged him by his hand toward the porch.

Darcy looked on with growing disapproval as Lizzy and the brash cowboy talked together in such a familiar manner. He couldn't hear what they were saying, but their bodies communicated enough.

What is wrong with me? Why do I feel such an inexplicable animosity toward a man that I have never met? What is Elizabeth Bennet doing to me? This is completely irrational. Still, he couldn't keep his fists from clenching when Elizabeth reached out lay her hand on the man's arm. Swallowing hard, Darcy attempted to assume a neutral expression as Lizzy turned and led the stranger toward the porch.

Lizzy and the stranger were at the base of the stairs when the stranger removed his hat and Darcy got his first unrestricted view of the man's face. Blue eyes met brown and both men instantly froze. This cowboy was definitely not a stranger.

Finally, Darcy thought and instinctively his right hand slid to his gun. His entire body stiffened and his senses were alerted for any sudden movement from the other man. Seconds stretched into minutes and he waited to make his move. There was only him and his target. His hand took comfort from the cold metal of his gun. After three years of searching, I finally caught up with him. It will all be over.

A soft feminine scent was detected by his heightened senses. Suddenly, he remembered where he was and that they were not alone. Elizabeth and Bingley should not have to witness such an ugly scene. He had waited this long. Surely, he could wait a little longer. Weighing his options carefully, Darcy allowed his posture to relax. Still ready to draw at any moment, Darcy shot a definite message with his steely gaze. Soon. Very soon. I am coming for you. Confident that his message had been received, Darcy confidently swaggered down the steps and untied Tempest. Without a word, he mounted up and turned to gallop out of the yard. Three pairs of eyes watched in disbelief, but for very different reasons.

A gentle breeze rustled through the leaves of the cottonwood trees that sheltered the two figures sprawled on the river bank below. Both of them had fallen into the habit of these lunch time meetings and Lizzy now treasured them as her favorite part of the day. It was relaxing to lay here in the shade snoozing or idly chatting with George about nothing in particular. Today, however, Lizzy found that she could not free her thoughts from the encounter that she had witnessed this morning.

“George, can I ask you something?” Lizzy asked hesitantly.

Rolling on his side to face her, George gazed into her eyes and solemnly replied, “Lizzy, you know that you can ask me anything.”

Taking a deep breath for courage, Lizzy plunged in. “You know the man that was with Dr. Bingley this morning, don't you?”

There was a long awkward pause before George sighed and responded. “Yes, I know Darcy. I know him very well.”

“How? Where would you meet someone like him?”

“You wouldn't believe me if I told you.”

“Of course, I would, George. You know that I trust you.” Lizzy's devotion caused the volume of her voice to rise.

Another longer pause stretched between them before George began to speak in a low and somewhat distant voice.

“I met him in St. Louis a few years back. I was working as the deputy in a small town called Ramsgate when the sheriff there decided to retire. The sheriff recommended me for the job, but the town council hired Darcy instead. He had been running a successful law practice in St. Louis and had a reputation for being as tough as nails. Although I was disappointed at not being promoted, I was thrilled to be working for such an experienced and respected man. As he was new to town, I took it upon myself to befriend Darcy and his younger sister. We became quite close and we worked well together for almost a year before trouble started. We had been working to break up a gang that had been terrorizing the town. We had been pretty successful, but one night everything changed. This night, I stayed late to catch up on some work after Darcy had gone home. I was finishing up some paper work when I heard gunfire outside. I ran down the street to see that the bank was in the process of being robbed. Trying to surprise the bandits, I turned down the alley to enter the bank through the back door. Blasting the lock with my gun, I managed to kick open the door and tackle one of the men as he turned from the safe in surprise. We were wrestling on the floor when his mask slid down. I instantly recognized the man as Darcy. Shocked at discovering my partner was actually a criminal, I lost my focus for a second and he seized the advantage. Shortly, I found the cold nose of a gun pressing into my temple. Darcy called one of his cronies to watch me as he continued to empty the safe. The last time I saw Darcy, he was beating me senseless.

Wickham paused for a second, apparently lost in a maze of painful memories. Squeezing his hand to comfort him, Lizzy waited silently for him to continue as she became even more upset by what he was sharing.

“When I came to I found myself bound and gagged in a cave, obviously the gang's hideout. Somehow I managed to escape and steal one of their horses. A bullet winged my shooting arm as I rode away. Thankfully, I found the strength to make it to the home of a friend who took me in and cared for me. Later, I learned that Darcy had fabricated the story that I was the head of the gang and that he was doing his best to apprehend me. The town believed him and when I had recovered I had no choice but to head further west. I had no desire to serve a system that could be so corrupted so I took up the honest work of a ranch hand. I have wandered around ever since always looking for something to make me stay in once place.” He paused and raised his eyes from their clasped hands to hers. “I hadn't found it…until now.”

With these last words, he reached out to softly stroke a curl away from Lizzy's cheek. Although touched by his tender action, Lizzy was too agitated to let the previous topic drop.

“Why didn't you challenge him? Why didn't you go to the mayor? Why didn't you call him out in the street for a gunfight?” she shrieked in rage, tears pouring down her cheeks.

Gathering her in his arms, he nestled her close to his chest in an effort to comfort her. “I couldn't, Lizzy. You must see that. I was incapacitated for several weeks. He would have killed me for sure. And as for telling the mayor, he never would have believed me. I didn't have any proof. Who would believe the word of an uneducated deputy over that of an intelligent sheriff? Besides, if the truth had come out it would have hurt Georgi as well. I just couldn't let her find out that the brother she loved and revered was nothing more than a common criminal.”

“Oh, George,” Lizzy sniffled into his shirt. “Life is so unfair. Thank god, you're alive and that he brought you here.”

Gently, he wiped the tears from her cheeks with the pad of his thumb. Time stopped as their eyes met once again and their hearts accelerated. Slowly bending his dark head toward hers, their lips met in a soft caress. Sliding her arms around his neck, she pulled him closer and relaxed into his embrace as he deepened the kiss in the fading afternoon sunshine.

“Lizzy, I can't believe that Mr. Darcy is a criminal!” Jane's eyes were spread wide with amazement. “Charles, would never be friends with a criminal. This is absolutely horrible!”

Lizzy was too upset to notice that her older sister had used the doctor's first name.

“It has to be true, Jane! George told me everything. Name…facts...he didn't hold anything back.” Lizzy crossed her arms, confident that information would settle everything.

“He hasn't even been here a month. Do you think it's wise to trust him so much?”

“Of course, I trust him. What other possible explanation could there be? You didn't see the way Mr. Darcy looked at George this afternoon. I was positive that he was going to murder him on our front porch. Why, Mr. Darcy has even bragged to me about his temper. Look at how he just showed up in town without a reason! And why does he always wear black?” Lizzy curled her lip in disdain. “If it isn't true then let him defend himself and prove it, but I believe George.”

“I don't know what to think,” Jane cried.

“Excuse me, but one knows exactly what to think!” Lizzy turned sharply and walked to her bedroom to sleep and dream of kisses beside the river.

Chapter 13

Posted on Monday, 13 October 2003

Sweet dreams didn't come as easily as she had planned. Initially, the events that George had shared with her that afternoon just played over and over again in her mind. The more she thought about what Darcy had done to George the more she hated him. Yet, Jane had managed to force her to consider Darcy's friendship with Dr. Bingley.

I am too tired to think about all of this tonight. I'll just have to focus on something more pleasant. Determined in this resolution, Lizzy tried to summon the memory of the kisses she had shared with George, but instead the dangerous image of a black-clad rogue filled her mind. Tossing and turning, the hours continued in this fashion as she tried to banish any thought of Darcy from her mind. Every time her eyelids drifted closed a pair of cinnamon colored eyes started intently back at her from beneath the brim of a familiar black hat.

Shouts coming from the yard below woke Lizzy right before dawn. I must have managed to fall asleep at last. Hurrying to open her window, Lizzy looked down to see all of the hands scrambling to mount up and ride out.

“Clancy, what on earth is going on?”

The ranch hand turned in the direction of the voice and spotted Lizzy leaning out of her window. “Rustlers, Miss Elizabeth. We are riding out to see if we can catch up with them.”

“Hang on just a second, Clancy. I am coming with you!”

“Now Miss Lizzy, I don't think your mother would approve.”

“Clancy, when has that ever stopped me before?”

Trying not to laugh, Clancy decided he would never beat her in a battle of wills and there just wasn't time. “Hurry down on down here and I'll get Austen saddled up for you.”

Lizzy turned back to her room and pulled on a pair of trousers, a shirt, her boots, and a short leather jacket. She was running out the door of her room when she reconsidered and went back to her closet. Stretching to reach the very top shelf, Lizzy took down an item she seldom wore. Strapping the small gun belt around her hips, she checked her gun before sliding it into the holster. Ready at last, she sprinted down the stairs, grabbing her hat on her way out the door where Clancy was waiting with Austen.

The rustlers had finally hit Longbourne.

Lizzy slowly rode Austen through the high grass as the pale light of dawn began to streak across the sky. At least, fifty head were gone and so far the hands had been unsuccessful at tracking the thieves. Truthfully, she had been waiting for the rustlers to strike, but she hadn't expected to such a significant loss. A small ranch like Longbourn simply couldn't afford it and there was no way that she was going to lose her beloved ranch.

I will make it my mission to catch these rustlers and make sure that they are brought to justice. Besides, I already know who's responsible. He arrived in town just before the rustling began and I know that he has a history of crime. I just need proof. He won't get away this time.

Lizzy hurried to load the supplies into the wagon before she collapsed. She was exhausted physically and mentally. She had slept very last night, woken to a crisis, and then been pestered by every citizen in Meryton for news about the rustlers who had hit Longbourn the previous night. All she wanted to do was pick up Jane and Kitty and go home and fall into bed. Lizzy leaned against the bed of the wagon and allowed her eyes to drift shut. A little break is all that I need.

Darcy had been busy reading in Bingley's study when he noticed that the Bennet wagon was stopped in front of Lucas' story across the street. Although he tried to continue reading, he was unable to keep himself for looking up every time the door of the store opened. At last, she walked out and began to load the supplies.

She looks tired and pale. Hardly surprising after the eventful night that they had had at Longbourn last night, but surely she had been safe in her bed sleeping peacefully through all the excitement. At least, she should have been, but knowing her she had been right in the thick of it where no female belonged. Why do I worry and care about such an infuriating female?

Against his better judgment, Darcy found himself rising from his chair and crossing the street to assist Miss Bennet.

Lizzy's exhaustion prevented her from hearing the approach of Mr. Darcy. Startled by a gentle tap on her shoulder, she jumped and found herself facing the man she blamed for her current condition. After all, he had wrecked her plans of pleasant dreams and she was positive that he was responsible for the theft of her cattle. Now to make matters worse, he was busy loading the supplies into the wagon.

“What do you think you are doing?” Her voice grew angry and her fisted hands rose to her hips.

“Just giving you a hand,” he said shrugging his shoulders he bent to heft a large bag into his arms. “It sounds like you had a busy night and you looked a little tired.”

“I am completely capable of loading my own supplies, thank you very much.”

“I know that you are, but can't you just accept a little help? You could let your guard down just a little bit. You don't have to act like a man all the time!”

By now, both of them were screaming at each other as they continued to load the wagon.

“I do not act like a man. Besides, why would I want the help of a man who….”

Their argument was disturbed by the sound of thundering horse hooves and frightened screams. The stage coach from Denver appeared on the horizon heading straight for Main Street with no driver at the reigns. The runaway coach was racing and swerving madly. The team of horses was so badly spooked that they would trample anything that was in their path. Anxiously scanning the street to see if anyone was in danger, Lizzy saw that the children had just rushed into the schoolyard after being released for the day.

Too scared to speak clearly, Lizzy barely managed to croak out, “The children….” However, her warning was unnecessary as Darcy had also recognized the situation. Without a word to Elizabeth, Darcy sprinted to the nearest horse, untied him, and jumped on. Digging his spurred heels in the sides of his borrowed mount, he began pursuing the runaway stage through the flying dust.

Darcy was successfully gaining on the stage, but he still wasn't sure if he could stop it in time. Finally, he managed to draw even with the stage horses. The reins of the stage were trailing on the ground between the two horses. The only way to reach them would be to mount one of them.

Damn! How am I going to reach them?

Carefully judging the distance between his mount and the back of the horse closest to him in the harness, Darcy pushed up on his saddle horn until he was kneeling on the back of his mount. Then he quickly leaped onto the back of the runaway horse. His sudden move caused the horse beneath him to jerk wildly, but Darcy fisted his hands in the horse's streaming mane and hung on. Looking ahead, Darcy noticed that the stage was quickly approaching the schoolhouse. The children were roaming everywhere seemingly unaware of the danger that was barreling straight toward them.

Can't they hear the horses coming? God, please keep them safe.

Knowing that he had to act quickly, Darcy clenched his legs around the horse and let go of the horse's mane with one hand. Then he leaned to the ground to try and grab the reins. His outstretched fingers managed to graze the leather before they jerked away. Leaning to the side just a little further, Darcy finally managed to snatch the reins and pull himself back up onto the horse.

The terrified screams of young children rang out as the stage entered the school yard. Darcy could see Jane Bennet running among the children and hollering for them to get out of the way. Pulling on the reigns with all of his strength, Darcy tried to direct the horses out onto the open prairie. At first, they seemed to continue in their original path until finally they turned and raced back out onto the prairie. Darcy felt his heart still pounding in shock and relief that no one had been injured. He managed to save the children. Now it was just a matter of letting the horses run until they exhausted themselves and Darcy actually began to enjoy his wild ride.

Lizzy had watched in awe as Darcy had performed his daring rescue. An inexplicable sense of peace had rushed through her, as she had watched him ride off in pursuit of the stage. For some strange reason, she had been completely confident that he would be successful in halting the runaway stage. Her unquestioning confidence in a man that she despised and knew to be a dangerous criminal left her mind unsettled. However, she was relieved that no one had been hurt in the dangerous situation.

I wonder what made the horses bolt to begin with? An Indian raid? Surely not, the local tribes had grudgingly accepted the presence of white men in the West. Wild animals? No… the most menacing animal that they could have possibly encountered was a pack of coyotes and that was unlikely before dusk. Lightning? No…the sky was perfectly clear. What day is it? Thursday. Ahhh….there is my answer! It had to have been a robbery! The stage would have been carrying the railroad payroll from Denver. A robbery would also explain the spooked horse and the absence of a driver at the reins.

Happy to have reached a logical conclusion, Lizzy allowed her mind to toss the information around as she tried to recreate the robbery in her mind.

It had probably happened at the rock outcropping about five miles out. The outlaws would have had plenty of cover there to add the element of surprise. Probably a gang of three or four men that had simply shot the driver, looted the strong box, and spooked the horses so that they bolted. Unfortunately for the robbers the team had bolted toward town. What about passengers? Had their lives been spared? Who could possibly be responsible? There had never been such a violent crime in the community of Meryton.

The answer instantly materialized in Lizzy's mind with clarity and certainty. Her response was pure rage and she felt her body begin to shake with fury.

William Darcy was obviously behind it! He was responsible for the robbery just like the rustling! He rode into town and a crime wave erupted. Wicked, depraved man! He had calmly helped her load her supplies, while his gang was committing murder! Then, he had the audacity to ride to the rescue like a hero. Ensuring that the citizen's of Meryton would replace their initial dislike of him with thankfulness and hero worship! If only I had some proof, I would unmask him for the cold-blooded outlaw that he is!

Once the exhausted team had slowed to a gentle trot, Darcy turned them back in the direction of Meryton. No longer having to strain to control the horses, he solemnly glanced over his shoulder to have his fears confirmed. The driver was had been shot multiple times. His shirt was covered with a red stain and his lifeless body had slumped to the side.

God, please let Wickham have spared any passengers.

Stopping the team in front of Bingley's office, Darcy called out to his friend. The door opened immediately and Bingley rushed out.

“Good God, Darcy! What were you thinking? I suppose you weren't! Thank heaven you were able to save the children! Now what happened?”

“Robbery. The driver's dead. I don't know about passengers.”

Darcy watched Bingley's face blanch with horror at his words. Thankfully, a low moan from the interior of the coach kept Bingley from puking. Darcy dismounted as Darcy rushed to open the door of the stage. There, lying on the floor of the coach, lay a short, chubby man who was moaning piteously. Between them, Darcy and Bingley managed to carefully lift the man and lay him on the bed inside the office. Bingley immediately began to ascertain the condition of his patient.

“Sir, are you alright? Have you been shot!”

“No. I am, however, in a state of complete shock!” The man wiped several greasy strands of his hair back off of his forehead and clasped his hands before him.

Darcy leaned over the side of the bed and demanded, “What happened? Were you the only passenger? How many robbers were there? Wasn't there anything you could do to help the driver?”

“Please.” The man whined. “I have an awful pain in my head. I thought that the horses would never stop or more likely that they would run off a cliff! Never have I been confronted with my own mortality so many times in a single day! It was quite an experience!”

“Well, Darcy here saved your life so perhaps you could answer some of his questions,” Bingley interjected.

Instantly, the man's fat face flushed with pleasure and his eyes brightened. “Dear sir, my humble profusions of thanks are not enough to repay your act of service. Your magnificent valor in risking your own life is a noble deed that I shall never forget. In fact, I am eternally indebted to you. I only hope that I can find a way to repay your actions in some small measure.”

“You can start by answering my questions.”

“Certainly. You see, Mr. Darcy, I was composing a sermon when I first heard gunfire. There were at least four of them. All I could do was stay in the coach and intercede in fervent prayer for the unfortunate soul of the driver. The ruffians never checked the interior of the coach. It was obviously an act of divine mercy.”

“Pray! While the he driver was being murdered!” Darcy stalked about the room in an agitated manner. “Tell me, who exactly are you?”

“My name is William Collins, Mr. Darcy. I am a humble man of God who is intrepidly traveling into the wilderness of the West to establish a mission in the Rosing River Valley. I am to be missionary to Chieftess Shrieking Cat and her tribe of noble savages.”

Darcy's eyes widened slightly at this information, but he remained silent and impassive. Collin's took this as a sign to continue.

“However, I do plan to spend at least a week here in Meryton with some relations of mine that I have never had the pleasure of meeting. Could either of you kindly direct me to a ranch run by the family of Bennet?”

Bingley was quick to answer Collin's query.

“Why yes. In fact, three of the Bennet girls should be heading back out to the ranch right about now. Come, I'll introduce you.”

“Just a minute, dear doctor. Please allow me a few minutes to refresh myself before becoming acquainted with my relations.”

Darcy and Bingley watched in disgust as Collin's preened before the mirror on the bureau.

He is worse than Caroline! I wonder what Elizabeth and her family will make of him. Darcy tried to imagine their response and felt a chuckle rise in his chest.

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