AN: This is an AU story set during the Pony Express. Lou never was a rider for the Express, but she did work with them… eventually. The entire story is set in Sweetwater, they never moved to Rock Creek, Ike & Noah are very much alive, Rachel and Jesse don't exist, and that is the Bobby mentions in A Tigers Tale.

Prologue

Kid left the sheriff's office in St. Joe feeling relieved. He had an urgent message about a gang of gun runners that were believed to have been in the area and had attacked Ike, but the sheriff was out on "personal business," and Kid would have to wait over a week for him to return, so he could take the reply back to Sweetwater. It would give him a break for a few days, and he was looking forward to it. He'd never imagined riding for the Pony Express would be this hard, but he loved it and wouldn't have it any other way.

Leading Katy to the livery, he was surprised there was no one to greet him. "Hello? Is there anyone here?" he called out, listening for a reply. When none came, he led Katy towards an empty stall, and when he opened the door, the sight that greeted him almost made him sick.

Dropping Katy's reins, he knelt between the three bodies feeling for a pulse. Not expecting to find one on the third, he was surprised to find a strong and steady one. Carefully rolling the body over, he was even more surprised to see feminine features.

She started to stir, and when she slowly opened her eyes, a look of panic crossed her face.

"Leave me alone! Don't touch me!" she yelled, wincing in pain as she tried to kick her attacker.

Kid backed up. "It's okay. I'm not going to hurt you. I came to bed my horse for the night and found you in the stall. Did you see who did this?"

Realizing he wasn't one of the men who had come in earlier and attacked them, she shook her head. She started to stand up but became lightheaded. Luckily Kid was instantly on his feet to help steady her.

"Here, you need to sit down," he helped her out of the stall away from the other two bodies, sitting her down on a bale of hay near the wide barn doors. "Will you be alright alone if I go get the deputy and the doc?" She nodded.

Kid started to leave and then remembered he didn't even know her name. Turning back around he looked at her, "My name is Kid."

She chuckled and then winced, grabbing her side when she realized it hurt. "Kid? Did you parents raise you on a goat farm?" Kid looked slightly angry but then she broke out in a huge grin. "Sorry," she said biting her lip to keep from laughing.

Kid smiled and then laughed as well. There was something about her that he found fascinating. She was beaten pretty badly, and he would bet Cody a month's pay she was pretty once she cleaned up. "And your name would be?"

"Louise. Louise McCloud. Most folks just call me Lou."

"Pleased to meet you Louise. Now sit right there. I'll be back in a few with help." Kid left the livery and walked back down the street towards the sheriff's office. When he arrived, the deputy looked up in surprise.

"Why, Kid, I thought you'd be settled in to the hotel by now enjoying some of St. Joe's finest in entertainment."

Kid blushed at the suggestion. "Ain't gotten that far yet. Went to board my ride and found three people in one of the stalls. Two of them didn't make it. Looks like they were shot execution style."

The deputy immediately jumped from his chair. "And the third?" he asked alarmed.

"Don't think she was shot, but she's beaten up pretty bad. Was comin' to get you then go get the doctor."

"I told Lou she shouldn't be workin' there. It ain't safe for a girl. Go on, and get the doc. I'll meet you both there."

Kid and the doctor arrived about ten minutes later to find Lou in the same place he'd left her, and she was arguing with the deputy.

"Bobby, I told you I'm fine."

"You ain't fine, Lou. You're beaten up pretty bad. Who did this?"

"I already told you I don't know. Last thing I remember was feedin' the horses, and I guess I was knocked in the head from behind. Next thing I know, Kid was leanin' over me."

"Now Bobby, let me look Lou over while you try to figure out what happened. Lou, do you think you can make it back to my office?"

Lou nodded and started to stand. Kid crossed to stand beside her in case she got lightheaded again. She tried to take a step but faltered.

"Here," Kid started. "Let me help you." He gently picked her up, feeling bad as she moaned. "Sorry, I tried to be gentle."

Lou wrapped her arms around his neck and placed her head on his shoulder. She had never felt so safe and she was amazed at how perfect she seemed to fit in his arms. Within moments she had dozed off.

Kid entered the doctor's office and gently laid Lou down on the examining table. "How bad is she doc?"

"I'll know more when I examine her. Why don't you go wait outside," he said more than asked.

Kid nodded and started to leave when he felt a hand on his arm. "Kid? Don't go."

Kid turned back around and faced Lou. "Are you sure?" At her nod he looked back at the doctor. "She wants me to stay."

"Fine, just don't get in the way."

Kid stood next to Lou and she refused to let go of his hand. The doctor examined her quickly and when he noticed Lou had fallen asleep again, he motioned to Kid to step outside with him.

"Is she going to be okay?" he asked worried.

"She has some nasty cuts and bruises, a few bruised ribs, none broken, and a badly sprained ankle, but I'm more worried about her concussion. She needs to be watched very closely the next few days."

"Can she stay here?"

The doctor shook his head. "Usually I'd say it was okay, but one of my patients is due to give birth any day now. I thought you might have been the expectant father when you banged on my door."

"Doesn't she have a husband or any family that could take care of her?" Kid asked and when the doctor shook his head, he was wondering why Lou didn't have a husband. Then again she did seem very close to the deputy Bobby; maybe they were courting. "What about the Deputy?"

The doctor smiled. "She and Bobby? They're just good friends. I think they grew up together at the orphanage outside of town."

Kid looked at the doctor puzzled. "Well I guess when I go and get a room at the hotel, I can make sure to get one big enough for both of us."

"You don't already have a room?" Kid shook his head. "With a fair in town, I'm afraid there aren't any rooms available. Besides Lou has a place over the dressmaker's shop. I'm sure she'd feel more comfortable there."

"Reckon you're right, but I just don't feel comfortable staying alone with her. What will people say when they learn a single woman is under the same roof with a strange man she just met?"

"Kid, people in this town pretty much mind their own business, but if it makes you feel better, say you're her cousin or something. Besides I don't think she should be left alone in case the people that robbed the livery come back."

"Kid?" they heard Lou call from the back room. "Kid?" she called out again in a more panicked tone.

Kid turned and hurried back into the room. "I'm here, Lou."

"I can't seem to stay awake. What did the doc say?"

"You have a bad concussion and got banged up pretty bad, but you should be okay in a few days. He suggested havin' somebody come stay with you. Is there someone I could get for you?"

Lou shook her head. "Would you stay with me?" she asked, pleading with her eyes. "Please?"

"I don't know, Lou. It ain't gonna look right." There was something different about Lou than other girls he had met before, and he couldn't figure out why he wasn't going to say no.

"I'll give you some medicine to give her in case she's in any pain. She'll need to keep that ankle elevated to relieve the swelling, and it'll be to sore for her to walk on for the next few days."

Kid nodded as the doctor left the room.

"Are you sure you don't want someone like Bobby helpin' you? You two seemed real close."

Lou shook her head. "Bobby is the last person I want helpin' me out. We've known each other almost all our lives. He's sweet, but he's like a brother to me."

"He don't seem to think of you as a sister, that's for sure. That ain't the look of a brother watchin' his sister."

"Here we go," the doctor said entering the room again. "If she's in pain, mix a tablespoon of this in her water every eight hours." He handed a packet of powder to Kid who put it in his pocket. "Now Lou, get plenty of rest these next few days. I doubt the livery will be open, and even if it is, I don't want you workin' there 'till I see you again. Is that understood?" Lou nodded. "Well that's all. Kid, if you have any questions, or if she starts running a fever, seems disoriented or anything out of the ordinary, you send someone for me right away, okay?"

Kid nodded and turned as he heard movement coming from behind him. "Lou, what are you doing?"

"Goin' home. What does it look like? If you ain't gonna stay with me, then that's fine. I'll be okay on my own. Been that way for almost six years now."

"Come on, Lou. Let me carry you. You heard the Doc. You need to have someone watch over you, and you need to stay off that ankle." Kid placed one arm under her knees and the other behind her back and lifted her as he had earlier. "Gettin' you up the steps might be a little more of a challenge," he said, smiling down at her.

"You look like the type of person who likes a challenge," she replied, grinning playfully.

"Not usually, but for you I'll make an exception."

"Does that mean you'll stay?"

Kid nodded. "If there's no one else, then I guess I ain't got a choice." Not one that I could live with anyway, he thought to himself.

The doctor held the door open while Kid carried Lou out of his office and down towards the direction of where Lou lived. When they reached the staircase at the back of the building, Kid realized that they were too narrow, and there was no way he could carry Lou up them without hurting her even more.

Lou sensing the problem smiled. "I can crawl up the stairs so you don't have to carry me."

"Are you sure?" Lou nodded, and Kid set her down on the ground. "I'll be right behind you in case anything happens."

Kid watched as Lou slowly climbed the staircase on her hands and knees. He blushed as he realized he was staring at her backside. He would bet she was wiggling it on purpose, but he couldn't look away. He couldn't believe he was acting this way. He was thinking thoughts he shouldn't have been and over a woman who he'd only known for a couple of hours. But there was something about Lou that had him blushing every few minutes.

"Kid?" Lou called from the top of the stairs. "When you're finished starin' are you gonna help me in or not?"

"Considerin' that no one could miss it, I couldn't help but to stare." He laughed when he saw her raise an eyebrow.

When he reached the top landing, he opened the door and then picked her up again. She fit against his body as if she was made for just him. He looked around the room, noticing that it was only large enough for a double bed, a dresser, a small kitchen with a stove and sink, a table and two chairs, a settee, a small galvanized tub, and a desk with another chair.

"Where do you want me to put you?"

Lou looked around for a moment. "Over on the settee is fine."

Kid carried her over and sat her down. "Is there anything you need?"

Lou shook her head. "I'd really like a warm bath, I feel so dirty, but I'm not sure…" she blushed at the thought of him drawing her bath and then having to help her in to it.

Kid blushed too as if he was reading her mind. "Uhm, I can draw you one and then go check on my horse. I'm not sure what to do with her if the livery is going to be closed. Do you think if I did that you could handle the getting in part?"

Lou nodded so Kid went about bringing in warm water to fill the tub. When it was full, he turned to Lou. "I'll be back in about thirty minutes. Will that give you enough time?"

"Thank you for everything, Kid," she said as she started unbuttoning her shirt.

Kid instantly turned away from her as he realized she was starting to undress. "I'll knock when I come back. If you're not done, just let me know and I'll stay outside or somethin'."

Lou had finished undressing and stood up, instantly moaning as she put weight on her ankle. She sat back down. "Maybe this ain't such a good idea after all. I can't even walk up a flight of stairs. How am I supposed to get in a tub? Kid, could you…"

"I'm not sure, Lou. It wouldn't be proper," he said still not facing her.

Lou chuckled. "What's the matter, Kid? Never seen a girl before?"

"Well yeah but…" he stammered. "I mean…"

Lou would bet he was blushing again even though she couldn't see his face. He was adorable when he blushed, and she wondered if he blushed all over. "Kid, if you look by my bed, you'll find my robe. Would it make it easier if I put that on and then took it off after you left?"

Still not looking at her, Kid nodded and went to find the robe. Finding it under the bed, he noticed the simple white garment was worn and threadbare in places. He tossed it over his shoulder towards where she was sitting. A few moments later she called out to him.

"It's safe to look now, Kid," she said giggling.

Kid turned and saw her trying to stand up again. "Lou, wait. Let me help you." He crossed the room, picked her up and carried her to the tub. The robe had fallen partially open at her collarbone, exposing the top area of her small breasts. He tried not to look, but felt himself wondering how perfectly they would fit in his hands and what else lay under there.

"I'm going to set you down in the water now," he said gently lowering her in to the tub. "Is the water too warm for you?"

Lou instantly relaxed as the warm water instantly began loosening her sore muscles. "No, Kid, it's perfect. Thank you."

Kid groaned as he realized that the white robe was now nearly transparent. "Well I'm going to leave you now to finish up. Do you want me to bring us back some food?"

Lou nodded. "If Bobby won't let you board your horse at the livery, ask him if you can board her with him. He has a small ranch outside of town and sometimes when we don't have any more space, he'll let the horses stay there."

"Thanks. Now take it easy and promise me that you won't try getting out until I get back."

"I promise. I'll see you soon Kid."

Kid nodded as he left her apartment and headed back towards the livery. He hoped Bobby would be able to give him some good news, but he had a feeling the deputy wasn't about to be happy to see him.

Chapter 1

Over the next few days, Bobby and the posse he had deputized to help find the people responsible for the robbery at the livery had been unable to find any clues. During the day Lou felt safe, but at night when Kid insisted on sleeping on the floor, she would often have nightmares and wake up screaming and crying. Kid would often crawl in to bed to hold her, and they would spend several hours talking and getting to know each other.

Kid found he was able to talk to her about things he'd never told anyone. He told her about growing up in Virginia, how his father use to beat him, his older brother and his mother, how he left when he was fifteen after his mother had died and how he made his way west and eventually got the job with the Pony Express.

Lou talked about her childhood growing up on a horse ranch, how when her mother died the three of them were sent to the orphanage and how after she ran away, her brother and sister had been adopted by a nice family, who allowed them to keep in contact with her.

"So you just left everything behind to come out west?" Lou asked.

"Really wasn't much left after I paid off the debts. When my pa ran off, he left my mom with no way to support Jed and me. Jed and I tried to keep the farm goin' but I was too young and he had other ideas on what he wanted to do. Finally he ran off, and ma got sick soon after."

"But you were only fifteen."

"Well, you've been on your own since you were thirteen."

"I ran away from the orphanage because I wanted to earn money to give my brother and sister a better life. I wanted to save enough and get a place where they could come live with me. I hated it there and didn't want them to be as miserable as I was."

"How long after you left were they adopted?"

"Two years. I never imagined that someone would adopt them together. It's unusual. Their new parents even tried to find me. Teresa didn't want to be adopted without me, and they were willing to."

"Why didn't you let them? It seems your life would've been easier."

"It probably would've been. But I was on my own and wanted to be strong and independent. Wanted to make my own way."

"Was it as easy as you thought?"

Lou shook her head. "If I hadn't met my friend Charlotte, who knows what would have happened to me. She's always been there to watch over me and lend me a hand when I needed it. She wanted something better for me than the life she had. She knew how I felt, and she would try and help me without me knowin' she was helpin'. But I soon learned that if I wanted to be strong and independent, sometimes I just needed to ask for help."

"And Bobby? Did he run away from the orphanage with you?" Kid teased.

Lou laughed. "No, but he was one of the good things about me bein' there. When the other boys picked on me, he would beat them up. I didn't know until later that he had a huge crush on me at the time. I left before he could tell me."

"I think he still does," Kid said, with a tinge of jealousy.

"He just wants to beat up anyone who picks on me. Better be careful," she said as they laughed.

"So how did you come to work at the livery? That's unusual for a girl."

Lou swatted at his arm. "Are you sayin' I can't do somethin' just 'cause I'm a girl?"

"No, I'm sure you could probably do anything I could do."

"And better," Lou said trying to keep a straight face. It didn't work and soon both were laughing.

"Seriously, how did you get the job?"

"Momma was raised on a horse ranch. When her folks died, she and my father took it over. By the time I came along, by father had… um other interests. Momma did everything on her own while my father was out doing who knows what. When I was old enough to help, I did. I learned how to break, shoe and of course ride. On my father's good days, he would show me how to do tricks while ridin'."

"What happened to your father?"

"By the time Jeremiah came along, I did pretty much everything because he was hardly ever home. When he was, he'd rather drink than take care of things. He would start sellin' horses without my momma knowin' to finance his other activities. When momma found out and confronted him, he started hittin' us. When momma found out she was pregnant again, she decided it was better to leave."

"Do you know where he is now?"

"Who knows? Last I heard he was probably in Mexico, but he's dead to me. I haven't seen him since I was nine and if I never see him again, that's fine by me."

"Well if you can ride as well as you say, maybe you could always dress as a boy and hire on with the Express," Kid joked.

Lou loved the way his crystal blue eyes sparkled and his face lit up when he laughed. She could stare at his smile all day, and she could easily imagine running her fingers through his permanently tousled hair.

~~**~~

As the days passed and Lou's bruises faded, Kids' first impression was right. Under all those bruises Lou was one of the prettiest girl he'd ever seen. Her brown eyes reminded him of chocolate, and he liked it when she wore her brown hair down so it flowed over her shoulders and down her back in waves.

She was able to walk short distances now, and each day she tried to walk a little more on it, but Kid didn't want her to push walking on the ankle. But at least he didn't have to worry about when she bathed anymore. She was able to get herself in and out, and he would usually take that time to find out if there was any more information about the investigation as well as going for food to bring back.

By their fourth day together, they had settled in to a routine, but Lou was getting cabin fever. Kid refused to let her leave saying he was worried she would injure her ankle more. The day was unseasonably warm so she had opened the windows to let a breeze in. They had been at the table playing cards when music from the fair wafted up and filled the apartment.

Kid saw the longing in Lou's eyes. He knew she wanted to leave the apartment, but he felt safer with her inside. Bobby now believed that the gang that had caused Kid to come to St. Joe's might have been responsible for the robbery.

Kid stood up and walked over to Lou smiling at her. "May I have the pleasure of this dance?" He held out his hand and smiled when Lou took it standing up.

"Um… You may," Lou chuckled nervously as Kid fidgeted as what to do before pulling her in to his arms, holding her tightly to him.

The two danced through several songs, lost in their own world not being able to tell when one song ended and the next began. When they finally noticed that the music had stopped, Lou couldn't resist as she stood on her toes and kissed him lightly on the lips.

Kid pulled away. "Um… I think I better go. I want to go check on Katy and…"

Lou pulled him closer again and resumed kissing him. Their bodies fit perfectly together as they held each other close. Finally she pulled away and smiled as she noticed he was blushing again.

"You blush easily," she chuckled.

Kid smiled, "I can't help it. You make me think things that ain't right for me to be thinkin'." Now it was Lou's turn to blush. "I mean it, Lou. I've never felt this way before, and I'm not sure what to do about it."

Lou felt the same way, but she had a few ideas on what they could do. She knew Kid would never initiate things, and a plan started forming in her mind. She just hoped she wouldn't be making a fool out of herself.

~~ ** ~~

That night as Kid went to check on his horse and bring back dinner, Lou took extra time in the bath. She added in some bubble bath Charlotte had given her for her birthday as well as laid out a simple, white, sleeveless nightgown that had also been a gift.

When she finished bathing, she went behind the privacy screen that Kid insisted on buying so they could dress in private and put on the nightgown. She heard Kid knocking and she called for him that it was safe to enter.

"Lou?" he called out.

Lou walked out behind the screen and walked towards him. She placed her hand on her stomach, trying to calm the butterflies. She looked at Kid who was speechless as he watched her walking towards him.

Kid was breathless. He never imagined Lou could be as beautiful as she was standing in front of him at that moment. The simple nightgown clung to her body in all the right places, and he instantly became aroused. He dropped the bags of food and crossed the room meeting her halfway.

"Lou?" he asked unsure if she wanted the same thing he did.

"Surprise."

He simply nodded. He gently rubbed her arms before wrapping his arms around her tiny waist and lifting her to his eye level and kissed her. When he broke the kiss, she let out a nervous chuckle, and he smiled. He gently carried her towards the bed lying her down. They resumed kissing, and as he cupped her beautiful face, she reached up and started unbuttoning his shirt.

"Lou, are you sure about this?"

Lou smiled and nodded, "Kid, I've never been more sure of anything."

Kid started kissing her ear, gently nibbling on her lobe causing Lou to giggle. He continued his kisses downwards as he cupped her breasts in his hands. He had been right; they did fit perfectly.

Lou finished unbuttoning his shirt and moved to untie his pants. Kid groaned as her nails skimmed the tip of his arousal. He was about to lower the strap on her nightgown when he felt her tiny hand grasp him.

"Oh God, Lou. I won't last if you keep doing that."

Lou smiled. "Then we'll just have to try it again."

Kid groaned. He continued to move down her body, out of her reach, and lifted her gown up her body and over her head. Once the barrier was gone, he sat up and admired her beauty. He smiled when he realized there was nothing under the gown, and she lay before him completely nude.

Lou had never felt so vulnerable as when she watched Kid gaze over her. She shivered in nervousness.

Kid stood to remove his pants before lowering himself on her again, his arousal pressing into her belly. His hand slid downwards and between her legs, and he slid his middle finger into her as his thumb and forefinger began teasing her.

Lou moaned at the sensations he was causing. Having a friend who worked in a whorehouse had its advantages, but nothing Charlotte had ever told her prepared Lou for this.

"Kid, please," she begged, arching her hips against his hand.

Kid stopped and sat up as the realization of what they were about to do hit him. Lou, sensing his hesitation, became worried.

"Kid?" When he looked at her, his eyes revealed all she needed to know. "It's okay, Kid, me too."

"You mean?" She nodded. "But how? I mean someone as pretty as you…"

"I was waitin' for someone special."

Kid shook his head. "Oh God, Lou, don't tell me that. I don't want to hurt you."

"Kid, you could never hurt me."

Lou kissed him hungrily, her tongue wrestling with his. She pushed him gently down and moved her way down. She nipped at each of his nipples, alternating between lightly sucking and rubbing them between her fingers.

She caught his erection between her breasts and the sensations almost drove him over the edge. He tried to grab her shoulders to still her, but she continued her way down his chest, kissing him here and there. When he felt her mouth wrap around him, he took a deep breath as his eyes rolled back in his head.

Lou looked up watching Kid's reaction as she took him in his mouth. She giggled at his reaction and felt Kid's hips jerk under her. Pulling back she moved over him and straddled him. She was about to slowly ease herself down on him when he grabbed her by the hips and rolled her over. He wanted this to be special for her, and he was willing to put up with a little discomfort to save her from having any.

Kid started to move down her body, taking time to explore it with his hands and fingers. He wanted to taste every inch of her. When he got to her belly button, he placed his hands on her waist and began to tickle her as his tongue assaulted her. She withered under him laughing.

"You know, laughin' when a man is naked ain't the best way to encourage him," he joked and then continued his way downward.

"I can't help it. I'm ticklish."

"That's good to know," he grinned at her before lowering his head between her legs. His tongue found her clit and he lapped it like a thirsty dog. He inserted a finger slowly in her tight heat and after giving her time to adjust, he increased the speed and pressure of his tongue with each new finger he inserted.

Lou grabbed his head trying to pull him away. "Kid, please. I need you!"

Kid shook his head and the sensations sent Lou over the edge, calling out his name over and over as she fell into oblivion. Only when her body began to relax did he stop. Moving his way back up her body he braced himself on his arms and placed the tip of his penis at her opening.

"Lou, anytime you need me to stop…" he started.

Lou shook her head and arched against him, smiling as he began to fill her. "Kid, please," she begged. "I can't wait. I need you completely inside me."

Kid didn't want to hurt her, but he didn't know how much longer he'd be able to hold on. With one thrust, he was in her completely and stilled as he heard her gasp.

"Lou, I'm sorry. I…" he started to pull out but Lou wrapped her legs around him, urging him to stay.

Lou smiled at his concern. She had never experienced something that could cause so much pain, but bring so much pleasure at the same time. She felt Kid start to pull back and locked her legs around him. She loved the way he filled her. It was as if she'd finally found something she didn't know she was missing.

Kid paused, giving her time to adjust. He leaned down and kissed her, his tongue finding hers. He groaned when he realized she was moving underneath him, urging for him to continue, their tongues rhythm soon matching the rhythm of their bodies.

Kid felt himself on the edge as he heard Lou's breaths coming in gasps as she met his thrusts with urgency. When he felt her tighten around him, moaning his name as she climaxed he joined her as they went over the edge together.

Lou felt Kid growing harder and knew he was close. She tried to hold on, wanting to share the ultimate experience with him but could no longer hold back. She was soon rewarded when he came calling her name. She smiled as he nearly collapsed on top of her, both spent, but staying joined as long as possible.

She groaned as he finally withdrew from her but was rewarded as he pulled her against him sighing contently as she fell into a blissful sleep wrapped in his loving embrace.

~~ ** ~~

"You ok, Lou?" Kid asked concerned as he wrapped his arms around Lou. She was lying on her side in front of him, and he could hear her softly crying.

"I don't know," she said hugging his arm a little tighter. Making love with Kid had been everything she had imagined it would be, but when reality set in, she knew they should have never moved to the next step so quickly. They had only met a few days ago, but Lou realized that she could already imagine spending the rest of her life with this man, and it scared her.

"When I first saw you in that nightgown, the most important thing on my mind was gettin' on with what we've been puttin' off these last few days."

Lou chuckled as she lightly kissed his arm. "Me too." She felt Kid placing tiny kisses on her shoulders and neck, and she turned over to face him. She saw that his eyes that were usually so full of life were clouded with worry and something else; possibly regret.

"Do you think we made a mistake?" she asked, scared of his reply.

Kid shook his head. "No, no…" he placed his forehead against hers. Kid took a deep breath, scared of her reaction as he tried to say the words he was feeling. "I know we've only known a few days, but…"

"I love you, Kid," she said, interrupting him.

Kid smiled, realizing Lou had read his mind. "I love you too, Lou… Louise."

~~ ** ~~

Over the next few days, Lou insisted on leaving her apartment once she was able to walk without any pain. The livery was still closed, and the sheriff was due to return any day. They both knew their time together was short, but neither talked about it.

They courted as if they were any normal couple, except for when they returned, they would spend the night lying in each other's arms. Lou showed Kid around town, took him to the orphanage where she had been sent, and even took him to the little pond she had found when she was about thirteen and would often go to when she needed an escape. Since it was still warm, Lou convinced Kid a swim was just what they needed.

After a few minutes, the couple wound up in each other's arms kissing. Lou instantly sensed Kid's distraction.

Lou cupped his face and looked into his worried eyes. "Kid, what's wrong with you?"

"It just don't feel right," he said.

"Sure feels right to me," Lou said wrapping her legs around his waist and leaning her forehead against his.

Kid chuckled. "Well yeah… It just ain't the way I was brought up. I was taught that when a man and a woman been doin' what we've been doin'… well it ain't proper… well, unless… unless…"

Lou pushed away. "'Scuse me, Kid, but you ain't fixin' to propose are you?"

Kid reached out and pulled her back into his arms. "No! Well, maybe... Well yeah, maybe I am."

"Kid, we've only known each other a few days."

"I know Lou, but I've never felt this way before. We both know I'm leaving soon, and I don't want to leave without you."

"Kid, that's sweet, but it's too soon."

"But, I love you."

"I love you too, Kid. But we both know we're not ready." Lou pulled out of his embrace again and swam to the shore.

"Lou!" Kid called after her. "Lou, please, can't we talk about this?"

Lou shook her head. "There's nothing to talk about."

Kid swam to the bank and got out of the water. He grabbed his clothes and started dressing silently, their playful mood lost. The walk back to town was quiet. Neither spoke, both lost in their own thoughts. As they approached Lou's apartment, Bobby came running up to them.

"Kid, there you are! I've been looking for you. Sheriff Reynolds is back and has your reply ready to take back to Marshal Cain in Sweetwater."

"Tell the sheriff I'll be ready to ride out at first light," Kid said, not wanting to leave Lou just yet.

Bobby shook his head. "I've already got your mount ready to go. Reynolds needs it to get back to Cain as soon as possible."

Kid nodded as Bobby walked away. Kid turned to Lou and took her hand.

"Lou…"

"I know Kid. We knew this was going to happen."

"I wish you would think about comin' back to Sweetwater with me."

"I can't Kid. I have a life here. I have friends and a job," she said fighting back tears.

"You can have that with me. We could be together."

"I'm not ready… I'm sorry."

Kid nodded. "I'll be back every chance I get. I'm not gonna give up on us."

"I know. Be careful, Kid."

"I will. I love you," he said cupping her face in his hands and looking in her eyes.

"I love you too, Kid. Ride safe."

Lou's tears started falling, and she turned from him and started to walk away. Kid grabbed her wrist and pulled her back in his arms for one last kiss.

Chapter 2

Over the next few weeks, the express station was busy and Kid didn't have a chance to go back and see Lou. He had hoped when they went after the gunrunner Boggs, who was indeed responsible for the livery robbery, he would get the chance, but Boggs' death put an end to that, and they doubted they would ever know why Lou's life was spared that night when the others were killed.

Kid didn't mention to anyone why he wanted to go back to St. Joe's so bad. He knew the boys would tease him. They often tried to get him to go to the saloon or to town socials, but if he couldn't be with Lou, he didn't want to be with another woman.

He wrote to her often and then passed it on when he arrived at a Way Station that would soon be delivering towards St. Joe. He hadn't heard from her, and by the end of the second month, he had decided to try and ask Teaspoon for some time off.

"Teaspoon, is there a run to St. Joe comin' up?" Kid asked one day after breakfast.

Teaspoon shook his head. "Kid, I keep tellin' ya that there ain't. Why do you keep askin'?"

"Just wonderin'."

"Kid?" the stationmaster prodded. "Somethin' you wanna tell me or talk about?" Kid nodded and then shook his head. "Well you boys can always come to me for advice if you need it."

"Thanks, Teaspoon, I'll keep that in mind."

~~ ** ~~

Lou sat at the table in her apartment reading Kid's latest letter. Each letter made her miss him more and more, but she still hadn't found the courage to write him back.

Life had resumed for her once the livery had reopened under new owners. At first they were skeptical about having a woman employee, but once she had proven her skills with the horses they gave her more and more responsibilities.

Bobby had also been spending a lot more time trying to win Lou's affection. She kept telling him that she just didn't feel that way about him, but it didn't stop him from trying. He would often meet her at the livery when she was ready for her lunch break and usually was waiting for her when she got off in the evenings. She enjoyed his company, but he wasn't Kid.

She had also confided in Charlotte about their relationship. Despite the fact Charlotte worked at the saloon, she and Lou had become the best of friends. She could tell Charlotte anything, but she had been surprised that Lou had taken that step so quickly and with someone she had only known for a few days. But the more she heard Lou talk about Kid, the happier she became for her friend.

Lou heard a knock on the door and called for them to come in. Charlotte entered and sat at the table next to Lou. "Another letter from Kid?"

Lou nodded. "Another one askin' me to come to Sweetwater."

"Have you thought about goin' for a visit?" Lou shook her head. "Why not?"

Lou sighed. "Because if I do, I'm scared I won't wanna come back."

"Would that be so bad?"

"My life is here. My friends… my job… I've spent most of my life in or around St. Joe."

"You could always come back and visit. Or Bobby and I could come there."

"If it's so easy to come back to visit, why hasn't Kid?"

Charlotte shook her head, "I don't know, Lou. I just don't know."

~~ ** ~~

Two weeks later, Kid finally got the break he'd been waiting for.

"Kid," Teaspoon called entering the bunkhouse. "Now normally Jimmy's up next, but I have a special run I thought you might be interested in."

Kid jumped up from his bunk and crossed the room. "St. Joe?"

"No, Seneca."

"Oh," Kid said discouraged.

"Now Kid, I was thinkin' there's no rush on gettin' back, so whoever I give it to might wanna take a few extra days. I don't know, maybe head on in over to St Joe."

Kid's smile brightened. "When do I leave?"

"Now Kid, it wouldn't be fair now. Like I said, Jimmy's up next," he said in a teasing voice. Kid was squirming and Teaspoon smiled. "If I give you this run, you gotta do somethin' for me in return."

"Anything, Teaspoon."

"Make sure you talk that pretty young lady into comin' back with ya to see us. I'd love to see what kind of woman would get you this worked up."

Kid hung his head in embarrassment. "How'd ya know?"

"Kid, the way you been runnin' around here lately, constantly askin' about runs to St. Joe and the like, I figured it was either a woman or you were up to no good. She must be special for you to be actin' this way."

Kid looked up and smiled. "She is, Teaspoon. She really is."

"Go on then."

"Thanks, Teaspoon." Kid ran out of the bunkhouse and went to ready Katy.

~~ ** ~~

A week later as Lou was getting ready to leave work Bobby stopped by as usual.

"Good, I'm just in time," he said as Lou was washing up at the bucket provided.

Lou looked up and saw Bobby heading towards her. "I'm sorry Bobby. I don't feel like goin' out tonight."

"You weren't feelin' good at lunch either, Lou. You ok?"

"Just tired is all. Can we do it another time?"

"Maybe if you had some food in your stomach you'd feel better. You're working too hard, Lou, and since that Express rider left, you haven't been takin' care of yourself."

"Bobby, I ain't gonna argue about this anymore. And I wish you wouldn't call him 'that Express rider'. He has a name."

"What kind of name is Kid? You say he loves you, but I bet he didn't even tell you his real name did he?" Lou took a deep breath and exhaled loudly. "I'm sorry, Lou. Please just come to dinner with me. I won't mention Kid or anything else that might upset you. Please?" he begged.

"Fine Bobby, but after this I don't think we should go out as much as often."

Bobby nodded as he took Lou's arm and led her to the restaurant. He knew Kid was in town, he saw him ride in as Bobby headed towards the livery. Bobby had watched her over these last few months longing for Kid, and he knew this time she would agree to go back with him if he asked, and Bobby didn't want that to happen.

~~ ** ~~

After arriving in St. Joe's, Kid cleaned himself up then headed straight to Lou's apartment. When she wasn't there, he went to the livery. He was told that she had already left to go to dinner with the deputy. Hoping they were at her favorite restaurant, Kid hurried down the street.

~~ ** ~~

"Thanks for the meal, Bobby. You were right; it did make me feel better," Lou said as she smiled for what felt like the first time in months.

He nodded. "I'm glad Lou. I like it better when you're happy." He shifted nervously in his chair. He'd had a plan running through his mind the past few days, and when he saw Kid, he knew he would have to put it in place and soon.

"Lou, you mean a lot to me, you know that right?" Lou nodded. "Well, people in this town are startin' to talk. They've seen us spendin' a lot of time together and many of them think it's about time."

Lou looked puzzled. "'Bout time for what?"

Bobby stood and then knelt in front of Lou. Taking her hand in his he looked up and smiled. "Louise McCloud, would you do the honor of marryin' me?"

~~ ** ~~

Kid stood outside the restaurant window in shock. "Guess that's why she never answered any of my letters," Kid said.

"Did you say somethin' to me?" A man passing by asked Kid.

"What?" Kid said, feeling as if he'd just been awoken from a nightmare. He saw the gentleman looking at him and realized he'd spoken out loud. "No, sorry."

Kid walked away with his head down and his heart broken. He felt like rushing into the restaurant and sweep Lou in to his arms and never let her go, but he knew she was better off with Bobby. He was a Pony Express rider that wouldn't even be able to make ends meet if his room and board wasn't paid for. Now he wondered how he could have ever thought of supporting a family.

Chapter 3

There were many changes at the Sweetwater station over the next six months. The biggest was that Emma and Sam had run off and gotten married when Sam was given the opportunity to become the Territorial Marshal. Each of the riders would take turns cooking, but without a station mother, things were going downhill and fast. Teaspoon had also been given Sam's old job and a new rider, a black man by the name of Noah, had joined the group.

Kid tried to move on as if he'd never met Lou, but it was a hard thing to do. When he arrived back to the station, much earlier than expected, Teaspoon took one look at his face and knew something had happened. The stationmaster didn't ask for questions, and for once Kid was glad that Teaspoon didn't try giving him advice that would confuse him more than help.

A couple of days after Cody left on a special run with a message from to be delivered to Fort Miles, Kid got up early and dressed. Without Cody's snoring, things were quiet at night, and everyone was getting a good nights rest, except for Kid. Every night Lou haunted his dreams and he would wake up usually in a foul mood. This morning though as he exited the bunkhouse, he almost tripped on something left on the porch.

"Dang it! Who left their stuff laying out here? I coulda killed myself!" Kid yelled without looking over what he tripped over. He stopped when he heard what sounded like a baby crying. He looked down to see a small baby in a basket with a note attached.

"Teaspoon!" he yelled after briefly reading over the note. "Teaspoon!"

Teaspoon came running from the tack room as the other riders exited the bunkhouse to see what the commotion was.

"Kid, what in hell has you yellin' this early in the mornin'?"

"That," he said pointing to the basket. "Someone left a baby on our doorstep."

"A baby? Who in the world…" Teaspoon looked and sure enough Kid was right. "Well boys, just don't stand there. Take it inside, and let's try to figure this out."

The next few minutes passed in a blur as the riders sprung into action. There was something about a baby that made even the toughest in the group turn to mush, as they tried to figure out where he had come from and what to do with it.

"Jedidiah's a good baby. Please look after him, and when he's old enough to ask, just tell him his momma died. I know I've got no right asking your help, but his father is one of your Express riders, and I figured he'd be better off with his loving father than with me. Thank you and God Bless" Teaspoon read the note out loud. "And it's signed Desperate."

Kid shook his head. "What kind of mother would do something like that?"

"Well probably somebody in pretty bad trouble."

"What are we going to do, Teaspoon?" Buck asked.

"Well, we just uh… Wish to hell I knew."

"Well I'm already doin' the cookin' and cleanin'. How much more could motherin' be?" Jimmy asked making baby noises. The riders giggled.

"With that head, he kinda looks like Ike," Kid offered.

"Drools like Cody," Jimmy said laughing.

*Who do you think the father is,* Ike signed. *Do you really think it's one of us?*

Everyone in the room looked at Jimmy. "What's everyone lookin' at me for?"

"Well Jimmy," Teaspoon started. "You do have a reputation with the ladies, now don't ya?"

"So does Cody. I don't think…"

"Well that's the trouble. You boys ain't thinkin' when you go in to town on your nights off," Teaspoon informed them. He put the baby on his lap and started to play horsey with him.

The baby started fidgeting and Teaspoon hoped to entertain him before he started crying. "What this baby needs is somethin' to play with. Keep him from fussin'."

Jimmy walked to his bunk with an idea. A few moments later he returned with the spurs from his boots. "How 'bout these?" he said holding them up. Teaspoon and the rest of the riders just stared at him. "Well they're shiny and they make noises."

"Well so's your gun but you wouldn't give him that, would ya? Never mind."

"What do I know anyway?"

"More about cookin' I hope," Buck answered.

"Yeah Jimmy, what ifs we gonna have for breakfast anyway?"

"I'm workin' on it!" Jimmy exclaimed before storming out of the bunkhouse.

"I better go check on this menu, dontcha think? Somebody wanna hold him?" he asked the remaining boys. All jumped at the chance, Kid getting there first.

"Kid, now relax son. He ain't gonna explode. You put one hand under the bottom and the other right around the back," he informed him, placing the tiny baby in Kid's arms. He walked towards the door sparing one last glance at his boys.

"Just can't understand how a mother could leave her baby like that," Buck wondered.

Kid looked down at the tiny bundle in his arms. The baby looked up at Kid and seemed to quiet down. "I don't know, Buck. Maybe she thought he would be better off with his pa."

Kid began to imagine what his kids would look like someday. Of course he imagined the girls looking as beautiful as their mother and his sons strong like him. They would have Lou's chocolate eyes and his unruly sandy hair. He shook his head, not surprised Lou had popped into his mind as the mother of his children.

Another strange image popped into Kid's head, but just as quickly disappeared as he felt the front of his shirt getting wet. He looked down to see the diaper had come loose.

Buck noticed the strange look that Kid on his face. Looking down at his shirt, he saw the problem. "Teaspoon! I think he just sprung a leak!"

Ike thumped on his chest to get Kid's attention and held his arms out. Kid was more than happy to hand the baby over to someone else. He rushed out of the bunk to talk to Teaspoon and caught up with him on his way back to the bunkhouse from the main house.

"Teaspoon, what's gonna happen to the baby?"

"I don't know, Kid. Why?"

"Was just wonderin'. Are we gonna try to find the mother?"

Teaspoon shook his head. "With Emma gone and me still not bein' able to find a replacement, we have our hands full as it is, even with Noah."

A similar thought to what Kid had had earlier popped back into his mind. "I may have a solution to that problem, Teaspoon. Can I have some days off? Please?" he said almost begging.

"I guess so, Kid. It's been awhile since you've had any time off. You even refused when I tried to get you to take some when your brother died. Since you've been workin' hard, go ahead and take as much time as you need."

Kid smiled. "Thanks, Teaspoon. Is it possible you could keep the baby until I get back?"

"I reckon that's possible. Since we can rule out Noah, it'll give me a chance to question Cody when he returns from his runs. Unless the mother comes back, I think he'll be safe here for the time bein'."

Kid ran back to the bunkhouse to pack a few items for the trip. The others too busy with the baby to notice, Kid took one last look at the baby and smiled. Then he ran to the barn to ready Katy.

Chapter 4

Lou paced the outside of the saloon waiting for Charlotte to return. She hated working there now, but after losing her job at the livery, she didn't have much of a choice. At least it was working in the laundry and not as one of the saloon girls. She may have felt like she had lost all of her dignity, but at least she was able to keep her self-respect.

When word had gotten out that she had turned down Bobby's proposal, everything changed. It wasn't long before people in town found out about her affair with Kid and people she'd known for most of her life treated her as an outcast. She even lost her job. If it hadn't been for Charlotte's help and friendship, Lou didn't think she could've survived.

Lou often considered going to Sweetwater, but Kid's letters had stopped, and she had no idea why. On many occasions she had started writing to him but could never finish. She couldn't find the right words to tell him all that was happening or how much she missed him.

"Lou, sorry I'm late." Charlotte approached interrupting Lou's thoughts.

"It's okay," she sighed.

"Thinking of Kid again?" Lou nodded. "You did what you had to Lou. Nobody could fault you for that."

"I know, but it doesn't make it any easier."

The two friends walked back towards Lou's apartment and Charlotte unloaded the bags with their lunch in it. Lou rarely went out in public anymore except for to go to and from work. She preferred to spend as much time in her apartment, that way she didn't have to avoid the stares of the townspeople and listen to their whispering behind her back.

"How's work been? Are some of the girls still being cruel to you?" Charlotte asked concerned. She had had to defend Lou on more than one occasion.

Lou shrugged her shoulders. "They pretty much leave me alone now. You'll never know how much I appreciate all you've done for me."

"It was the least I could do. I just wish it could be more."

Lou nodded her head. "I know."

The two ate silently for the rest of the meal. When they finished, Charlotte asked if she could stay and grab a nap.

"You know how busy it gets over there in the early evening. I'll never get caught up on my sleep."

"That's fine, Charlotte," Lou told her. "You know you're welcome to stay any time."

"Thanks, Lou."

Lou nodded and walked outside and towards the saloon. As usual, she used the back entrance that led to the laundry area. Later that afternoon just as she was finishing her last load, her boss walked by.

"Louise," he greeted her.

"Evenin', Mr. Wicks."

"'Bout done here?"

Lou nodded. "Yes sir."

"Well when you've finished up, I'd like to see you in my office for a moment."

"Alright. I'll be there shortly."

~~ ** ~~

Kid left Katy in front of the dressmaker's shop and hurried up the back stairs to Lou's apartment. He knocked several times and was about to leave when the door finally opened.

"I'm sorry. I was looking for someone else," his heart sank as a strange woman answered the door.

"Kid?"

"Do I know you?"

The brunette shook her head. "No, but the way Lou has talked about you, I'd know you from anywhere. I'm Charlotte," she held out her hand.

Kid shook it. "Lou's friend. I take it since you're here, she's probably at her and Bobby's house. I kinda hoped that…"

"Kid," Charlotte said interrupting. "What are you talking about? Why would she be at Bobby's place?"

"Well, they're married, ain't they?" Kid held his breath hoping what he knew in his heart was true.

Charlotte shook her head. "Where on earth did you get an idea like that?"

Kid smiled and released his breath. "When I came back…"

Charlotte looked puzzled. "You came back here? When? Kid, I think you should come in and let's talk."

~~ ** ~~

"You wanted to see me, Mr. Wicks?" Lou said, knocking on her boss's door. Lou was nervous. She thought she had been a hard worker, and she really needed this job. She didn't know what she would do if he was about to fire her.

"Yes, Louise. Come in and shut the door will ya?" Lou nodded and did as she was asked. "Have a seat," he said pointing to the couch. When she sat down, he crossed the room and sat down next to her.

"Do you like your job, Louise?" he asked, placing his hand on her leg.

"Very much, sir. I'm very grateful to have it."

"Please stop calling me sir. Call me Simon. I'm glad you're grateful Louise. I'm glad I was able to help when the rest of this town turned their back on you."

Lou started to feel very uncomfortable. Wicks kept rubbing her knee and the look in his eyes frightened her. "Um ... I think I better go," she said, standing up and walking towards the door.

Simon grabbed her and pinned her against the wall. "You're not goin' anywhere yet. We have some unfinished business to take care of." Lou's heart stopped as she heard him lock the door.

Wicks used one arm to force Lou against him and used his other hand to turn Lou's face towards him. Lou tried fighting him off, and he slapped her across the face. "Don't make me hurt you," he growled before kissing her.

~~ ** ~~

Kid looked at the clock on the wall for the third time in ten minutes. "Shouldn't she have been back by now?" he asked.

Charlotte could hear the worry in his voice. "Maybe she got held up or something. Saturday nights are always big, and everyone wants everything when they want it."

"I don't like that she's workin' in a brothel. I don't care if it's just doin' the laundry. I wish she would've contacted me. I still don't see why the town treated her so bad. What happened?"

"Kid," Charlotte said placing her hand over his, "that's something she needs to tell you. I don't think I should."

"Somethin' don't feel right, Charlotte. I'm goin' over there."

Charlotte nodded. From what Lou had told her about Kid, she didn't expect him to do anything less.

~~ ** ~~

Lou felt nauseous. Wicks' hands kept touching her and she could tell he'd been drinking.

The more she tried to fight him off, the harder he hit her. She knew she was going to have at least one black eye and her wrists where he held them tightly above her head hurt badly. She had hoped if she went limp and stopped fighting he would just get it over with and leave her be. It only outraged him more.

"Now Lou, don't be like that. I'm only taking what you owe me," he said as he ripped the buttons off on her blouse.

Lou raked her fingernails down his face, drawing blood and tried to get away screaming. Wicks caught her by the waist and threw her down on the couch, covering her mouth with his hand.

"Don't fight me, Louise. This would be so much more enjoyable for the both of us that way." Shoving her skirt up, Wicks pulled down her bloomers with his free hand, while trying to keep her from squirming. Suddenly there was a knock on the door.

"Lou? You in there?" Kid called out.

Lou let out a breath of relief hearing Kid's voice. She bit the hand covering her mouth and Wicks pulled it back shaking it.

"Kid, help!"

Wicks slapped her again, knocking her to the ground. She hit her head on a table and before blacking out, hoped Kid would get to her before Wicks finished what he started.

At the sound of Lou's scream, Kids' heart felt as if it was breaking into a million pieces. He tried opening the door, but it wouldn't open. When he heard a loud thud, he drew his weapon and kicked down the door. The door crashed down and Kid watched as a man shook an unconscious Lou by her shoulders with one arm and slapped her several times across the face. He cocked his weapon.

"Back away!" he yelled moving closer to Lou.

Wicks reached for his gun and Kid fired a round into his chest without thinking twice. Wicks fell to the ground with a look of shock frozen on his face.

Kid ran to Lou's side. Tears welled in his eyes when he saw how bruised and beaten she was. She looked even worse than when he first found her at the livery. Gently picking her up, he stepped over Wicks' dead body and carried her outside towards the doctor's.

~~ ** ~~

Lou felt like she was floating. She tried opening her eyes but couldn't. For some reason she felt safe and protected but couldn't figure out why when she knew what Wicks must have done to her.

Maybe I'm dead, she thought. Wicks has beaten me to death and I'll never be able to tell Kid I love him again.

As Kid neared the doctor's office, he felt Lou stir in his arms. She was mumbling, but her swollen lip made it hard for him to understand what she was saying.

"It's okay, Lou. You're safe now. I love you, and I'm not letting you go this time."

Chapter 5

Kid refused to leave Lou's side over the next few days, wanting to be there when she regained consciousness. But the longer she was out, the more the doctor worried that she might not wake up.

"Kid," Charlotte said entering the room. "Why don't you go and get cleaned up, maybe get some sleep."

Kid shook his head. "I wanna be here when she wakes up." He picked up Lou's hand and held it against his cheek. "Come on, sweetheart, it's time to wake up. Open your eyes. There's someone who wants to see you."

"Kid, please. I'll stay with her and I'll come get you if anything changes."

"This is all my fault Charlotte. I shouldn't have left her. I shoulda made her come with me when I first left."

Charlotte placed her hand on his shoulder and squeezed it. "Kid, it's not your fault. You couldn't have known. If anything it's my fault. I'm the one who got her the job there. Has Bobby been by to talk to you yet?"

Kid nodded. "There won't be any charges. Apparently half the town wanted Wicks dead; they don't think there's a jury out there that would find me guilty."

"I have to agree with him there. You did all of us girls a big favor. You're a hero to us."

"If I'm such a hero, Lou wouldn't be lying here."

Lou heard voices. She thought she heard Kid, but she had dreamed his voice so much during the lonely months they were apart, she couldn't be sure. She tried to open her eyes so she could see him but they wouldn't open.

She felt his hand on hers. If there was some way she could just let him know that she loved him too.

~~ ** ~~

Kid finally dozed off sometime during the early morning and awoke suddenly when he felt a tightening grip on his hand. He waited to see if he could feel it again, praying he wasn't dreaming. Lou didn't disappoint him.

"Lou, honey, time to wake up."

"Kid?" she barely whispered as her eyes fluttered open. Her throat was dry and hurt as she tried to speak.

"Thank God, Lou. You had me worried." He kissed the hand he was still holding.

"Wicks?" she croaked.

"He'll never hurt you again. I promise you. You know, we have to stop meeting like this." Lou tried to chuckle but only wound up coughing. "Do you want some water?"

Lou nodded and tried to sit up. Kid supported her back with one hand as he held the cup to her lips with the other.

"Feelin' better?" Lou nodded. "God Lou, you don't know how worried I've been."

"Kid, what are you doin' here? I thought… What about…"

In that instant, Kid knew he had been right in his suspicions all along. "Jedidiah?" Lou nodded. "Lou, why didn't you tell me we made a child together?"

"You didn't come back. Then the letters stopped comin'… I thought you didn't love me."

"Lou, you have to know, I've loved you from the moment I first saw you. And I did come back, but we'll talk more about that later. Right now you need to rest; build your strength up."

"But Jedidiah…"

"He's fine Lou. He's back in Sweetwater, waitin' for his momma."

Lou smiled at his words and fell back to sleep.

~~ ** ~~

Lou gradually regained her strength back over the next few days. Charlotte stopped by often as did Bobby. But once Lou found out that Bobby had seen Kid in town the night he proposed, she refused to see him. He kept trying to apologize, but eventually accepted the fact that he'd lost his best friend and the only woman he'd ever loved.

Kid and Lou decided to take things slowly this time, and at night she would lie cuddled against him for comfort. Even though Lou's body had changed because of the pregnancy, Kid was amazed how she still fit perfectly with his when they lay side by side at night. And during the day, they spent the hours catching up and getting to know each other all over again.

"I knew as much as I wanted to and as much help as Charlotte gave me, I just couldn't keep him with me. I know what it was like to grow up in an orphanage, and I wanted my… our child to have a better life than that. I figured it was better to send Jedidiah to you."

"The moment I saw those brown eyes and the way he smiled, I knew in my heart that he was mine. It was almost like lookin' in a mirror."

"And I named him after your brother. I'm sorry he didn't get the chance to see his nephew, but I'm glad you got the chance to see him again."

"God, Lou. I wish I had known sooner. I hate to think of all you went through because of me."

"Kid, it's not your fault. I had a part in him bein' here too," she replied with a saucy grin. Kid blushed at the memories that surfaced. "I think I missed most how you can blush so easily."

Kid chuckled. "I'm serious, Lou. You shouldn't have gone through all of that by yourself."

"Kid, it's over and done with. We can't go back and change things. We can only go forwards now."

"Well, I've been thinkin' 'bout that. I come up with an idea that'll make things easier and better."

"About what?"

"Us… Jedidiah… What we should do now." Lou groaned. "Don't worry, I'm not gonna ask you to marry me again."

"You're not?" Lou asked sounding disappointed.

"I should, because it's what's right, but I won't. Not now anyway. I know you're not ready, even though I am. But I was thinkin' about our situation and what to do about it."

"And?"

"Come back to Sweetwater with me. Jedidiah needs you as much as I do."

"What would I do?"

"Well, that's the perfect part. Rememeber me talkin' about Emma?"

"Your station mother? The one who was bein' courted by the Marshal?"

Kid nodded, "Well, they ran off and got married leavin' us in a bit of a bind. I was thinkin' maybe you could take the job."

"What would I be doin?"

"Cooking, cleaning, things like that. You'd stay in the main house and you can keep Jedidiah with you. I have to warn you though, we can all be a bit of a handful."

"But what would we tell everyone?"

"We can tell them the truth or we can tell them what ever you feel comfortable with. It doesn't matter as long as we're together."

"Do you think we can make it work?" Lou asked sounding skeptical. It sounded too good to be true.

Kid nodded. "We'll never know until we try."

"Then what are we waiting for? I miss our son."

Chapter 6

With the exception of a few clothes, Lou decided to her belongings in St. Joe and start over in Sweetwater. When they arrived, Kid dropped Lou off at the hotel to check in to a room for the night, giving her a chance to go shopping for some new clothes before they implemented their plan. Kid was so sure their plan would work and she only prayed he was right.

~~ ** ~~

"Rider comin'!" Buck yelled from the porch of the bunkhouse. "Kid's back!"

The riders all came out to greet him. "Welcome back, Kid. We missed you around here." Cody said.

Kid laughed. "No, you missed me doin' your chores."

Buck laughed. "With all the replacement housekeepers Teaspoon's gone through, we've all had more work to do around here."

Kid looked alarmed. "Has he hired someone yet?"

Cody shook his head. "If he doesn't find someone soon, I'm gonna starve to death."

"Did the momma of the baby come back?"

"Nope," Noah answered. "And we can't figure out which one of you is the father. And since you're not the type, we ruled you out even before we ruled me out."

Kid looked at the ground, scared if he looked at his fellow riders, they would somehow see right through him. "Where's he now?"

"With Teaspoon over at the jail."

Perfect, Kid thought. This should work out just perfect!

~~ ** ~~

Lou walked in to the Marshal's office and her heart stopped at the sight that greeted her. An older man, who from Kid's description could only be Teaspoon, was bouncing her son gently on his knee. He'd grown so much in just the short time they were separated and she realized just how much she had missed him.

Teaspoon looked up as Lou entered and smiled. "Well howdy ma'am," he said tipping his hat. "How can we help you?"

"I'm looking for a Teaspoon Hunter. I heard he was lookin' for some help out at the Express station."

"And you would be?"

"Louise McCloud."

"Well I reckon you've come to the right place Miz McCloud. We're lookin' for someone who can cook, clean and do other chores as needed for a bunch of rowdy young boys. At any given meal there could be anywhere from three to seven or eight mouths to feed."

"Sounds easy enough. What about cleanin'?"

"Well the boys have their own chores, and they know they have to do them. But you'd be responsible for makin' sure they do them as well as keepin' the main house straightened up for company."

"And this little one? Does he come with the job?" Lou knelt beside Teaspoon and rubbed her son's back.

"Well, we ain't sure what to do with this little one. Seems his momma was in a bit of a bind and dropped him off on our doorstep."

As if he knew he was being talked about, Jedidiah started crying.

Lou smiled. "Well he's got a strong set of lungs for someone so young. May I?" she held out her arms while holding her breath waiting for a response.

Teaspoon nodded and placed the baby in her arms. Immediately he stopped fussing.

"Well I'll be. Seems he's takin' a likin' to you."

"He's adorable."

"Do you have any children? A husband who might object to you workin' around a bunch of boys?" Lou shook her head refusing to look at Teaspoon. "Might I ask what brings you to our fair town?"

Lou knew this was coming, and she and Kid had decided it would be better to stick to the truth up to the point of their first meeting. "I ran away from an orphanage when I was thirteen. Worked in St. Joe for a while doin' whatever jobs I could find. Cooking… cleaning… laundry… even worked at the livery there for a while. Before I was sent to the orphanage, I was raised on a horse ranch so I can ride and train horses as well. And before my ma got sick, I helped raise my younger brother and sister. Figured it was time for a change, so headed this way."

"And those bruises you got?" he pointed at her face.

Lou's heart sank. She had tried to hide as much of it as she could with make-up, but they were still to dark and swollen to completely hide. "Took a nasty fall of my horse a coupla days ago. It looks worse than it is. Nothin' I can't handle."

Teaspoon nodded wondering if there was more she wasn't telling him. But she looked like she needed a break, and if she was willing to put up with his gang of unruly boys he was willing to give her a shot.

"Well then, I think I'll give ya a shot. Let's go show you what you're in for."

~~ ** ~~

Lou fell in love with the way station the moment she laid eyes on it. It was exactly as Kid described it and as she stood on the porch of the main house, she could easily imagine one rider coming in and passing the mochilla off to the waiting one.

Carrying the last items she needed for the evening meal to the bunkhouse she could hear voices coming from the barn, and she had been told that the boys were busy with their evening chores. She was hoping for a glance of Kid but knew she would see him soon enough. She could only hope she didn't say or do anything to give away their secret.

When everything in the bunkhouse was ready, Lou went out to the porch and took a deep breath before ringing the bell. She stood there and watched as Teaspoon, Kid and five others exited the barn, stopping when they saw her.

"Teaspoon?" Cody asked stunned by the lovely woman on the porch. "Who's that?"

"Boys, I forgot to tell ya. I hired us a new cook," he answered clearing his throat. He chuckled at the looks his boys were giving their new housekeeper.

Lou blushed as she noticed the looks the boys were giving her. Kid had a look of shock on his face and Lou wasn't sure what to make of it.

She had wanted to make a good impression for the boys, so she chose an outfit Charlotte had given her before she left. The black, tight blouse was extremely low cut, even by Charlotte's standards but Lou was glad she finally had something to fill it with. She at least chose a simple skirt that had a small split on the side that stopped below the knee.

She quickly learned working in a hot kitchen most of the afternoon with long hair was going to be a pain. After an hour she pulled it back in a twist, but now loose strands were falling around her face. She had also applied some more make-up and hoped that with the dark lighting in the bunkhouse, no one would notice the bruises and ask questions.

"Anyone that beautiful can cook?" Jimmy asked grinning. Jimmy had known many beautiful women in his life, and none that looked like that could cook - at least not in the kitchen.

Kid almost didn't recognize her at first and wasn't surprised that his friends were acting this way. He wasn't happy about their reactions, but then again if the low cut blouse she was wearing had revealed any more of her cleavage, and he didn't know that this was the mother of his child, he probably would have acted the same way.

"Who cares?" he asked nonchalantly.

"I do!" Jimmy and Cody replied simultaneously.

Kid glared at them. "You would."

As Lou turned to head back in to the bunkhouse, the riders tried to out run each other to get inside.

"Take it easy on her boys; she fell off her horse a few days ago." Teaspoon supplied hoping his boys would go easy on her. He rushed after them leaving Kid following slowly.

By the time everyone was washed up and sitting at the table, Lou was ready to begin serving.

"I hope you like it," she leaned down to put the roast on the table.

"Looks mighty fine to me..." Cody said staring at Lou's chest.

"I was talking about the roast," Lou replied swatting at his arm.

Everyone but Kid started laughing.

"I was too, Lou. Honest." Cody started reaching for the pitcher of milk. Still staring at Lou, he wasn't paying attention when he poured, and spilled some in Kid's lap.

"Cody, why don't you watch what the hell you're doin'!" he yelled.

"I was...! Milk's just got a mind of its own."

"Amazing how cow juice behaves in the presence of a lady," Noah said trying to hide his smile.

Kid had had enough and stood up. "You guys are crazy..."

Lou watched as Kid stormed out of the bunkhouse and knew she had let things go too far. Looking at the remaining boys she shook her head.

"Before we go any further, let's get one thing straight. Supper is on the table. And I'm not on the menu."

Lou heard them mumble their apologies as she went outside to find Kid. She found him in the barn brushing Katy and went to meet him smiling.

"Careful, you're droolin'," she told him playfully, wiping his mouth.

Kid wiped his mouth with the back of his hand and blushed. "Whattya got on, Lou?"

"It's um ... it's a dress. Ladies wear them. And you've seen me in one before."

"Not in one like that, no lady would wear a dress like that," he told her resisting the urge to grab her into his arms. Instead he brushed a loose strand of hair behind her ear. "And I don't want my lady wearin' a dress like that."

Lou smiled. "Some people think it looks nice. Just ask your friends."

Kid groaned. "If they keep actin' like that, they ain't gonna be my friends much longer."

Lou stood on her toes and whispered in his ear. "Why Kid, you're not jealous, are you?"

"Hell yeah I'm jealous, Lou," he growled.

"I'm sorry, Kid. I just wanted to make a good first impression for your friends."

"Well, you're makin' it hard for me to remember why we decided to go slow this time."

Lou bit her lip and smiled. "Stop by the main house later and I'll let you tuck in the reason why." She kissed his cheek and headed back inside the bunkhouse.

Chapter 7

Lou loved her job and the boys loved having her there. Once she started dressing as she normally did, they had gotten used to her and she immediately became part of the family. She was the sister they could go to when they needed advice or a shoulder to cry on in private. The best part was she was able to convince Teaspoon that not only could she handle her daily responsibilities, but also she could still care for Jedidiah.

At night after everyone else was asleep, Kid would sneak over to the main house to tuck his son in and to spend time with Lou. Each day they fell more and more in love. When he was gone on runs, he couldn't wait to get back to them, while Lou spent the time worrying whether or not Kid would return safely.

With each passing month of the others not knowing their secret, the harder it got for Lou and the more worried she would become. All too often one of the riders would return from a run either bruised or shot. The thought that she might lose her job if Teaspoon found out about her and Kid was the only thing that kept her from running in to his arms the moment he returned.

Three months after Lou took the job, Teaspoon and the boys went to rescue Teaspoon's adopted daughter Amanda. Charlotte came to stay with Lou and Jedidiah, and it felt good to finally have someone to talk to openly about her relationship and fears with Kid.

"I still can't believe how big he's gotten, Lou!" Charlotte exclaimed taking Jedidiah in her arms. "He must be a real handful."

Lou laughed. "It doesn't help the boys around here are already trying to teach him to ride a horse and shoot a gun!"

"And Kid?"

Lou sighed and sat down on the settee next to Charlotte. "Every time he rides out I wonder if I'll see him again."

"Have you talked to him about it?"

"He accuses me of being to overprotective."

"Are you?"

"I've seen them come back beaten and bruised. They'll be close to death and still finish their runs. I don't want anything to happen to him. I don't think I could go through losin' him again."

"How are things goin' with you two?"

"Better than ever except that we still haven't… you know," she answered blushing.

Charlotte grinned. "And why not?"

Lou shook her head. "He still wants to take things slow, I guess. Besides, there's always the chance someone could find out about us, and if that happens, I'd lose my job and he could lose his."

"Lou, I don't see how they haven't figured it out yet. With the exception of your eyes, this little cutie looks just like his daddy."

"I know," Lou sighed. "I hope they get back soon."

"Lou, stop worrying about him. I'm sure he's fine."

"Guess worryin' 'bout things don't make 'em any better. Here, let me take him. It's about time he's put down for the night."

Charlotte nodded and handed the baby over. "I'll fix us some tea while you're gettin' him settled."

Lou nodded and headed up the stairs.

~~ ** ~~

Kid was glad to finally be home. It had taken almost two weeks to deliver Pike for his hanging and to save Amanda, and it seemed to last forever. All he wanted to do now was tuck his son in and spend the rest of the night showing Lou how much he missed her.

Walking into the nursery, Kid stood in the doorway and smiled. Lou was sitting with her back turned to him in the rocker by the window, cradling their son and humming a lullaby. He watched them silently not wanting to disturb the peaceful scene.

Lou smiled and breathed a sigh of relief. She knew Kid was behind her watching her; she had seen them return about thirty minutes ago. "Welcome home, Kid."

Kid crossed the room and kissed the top of her head. "God, I missed you. How's he doin'?"

"Waitin' for his daddy to tuck him in. He waited until you guys rode up before he started to fall asleep." Lou stood and handed him his son.

Kid gently placed his son in the crib and stood there for several minutes just watching him. He could never get tired of watching his son; other than his momma, Jedidiah was the most important person in his life and always would be.

"I saw Charlotte downstairs. I'm glad she was able to come and visit. I felt better knowing someone was here with you with all these temporary replacements. Did they cause any trouble?"

Lou shook her head. "No more than you guys. It was nice to have some well behaved boys for awhile."

Kid turned around and smiled at her. "Admit it, you missed us."

Lou wrapped her arms around Kid's waist. "I missed you," she said standing on her toes to whisper in his ear.

"Not as much as I missed you." He kissed her hungrily.

Breaking the kiss, Lou groaned in frustration. "Kid…"

Kid kissed her again, this time with urgency. Lou started unbuttoning his shirt and as she ran her hands over his chest, she noticed the bandage wrapped around his waist. "Kid?"

"It's nothin', Lou. Just got grazed is all. I'm fine."

Lou pulled back. "You were shot?"

"Lou, I told ya, it's nothin'."

"Downstairs, Kid. Now! I don't want to wake Jed up," she grabbed his arm and pulled Kid towards the stairs.

Charlotte met them at the bottom of the stairs. "I'm off to bed. I'll see you two in the morning," she said smiling noticing that Kid's shirt was unbuttoned. She winked at Lou, "or maybe not."

Lou continued to pull Kid until they were in the living room. Kid saw the anger in her eyes and knew the homecoming he had planned wasn't about to happen.

"What the hell happened? How'd ya get shot?" Lou yelled.

"Pike was dead when we took him to where his brother was held up. When he realized it, the shooting started. I got hit in the side, but it just grazed me. I'm fine, Lou. It's nothin' to worry about."

"Nothin' to worry about? You could've been killed!"

Kid rubbed her arms. "I wasn't, Lou. Calm down."

"I will not calm down, Kid! Damn it, I've told you that you needed to be careful."

"Lou, will you quit smotherin' me? I have a job to do."

"I know that, Kid, and I worry every time you ride out. But it ain't just about me anymore. Do you know what it's like for me to sit here holding our son while you're gone, knowing that you might not come back? You never even considered that did you?"

Kid flinched at her words, feeling as if he'd been slapped. "I'm sorry, Lou. I never…"

Kid was interrupted by someone clearing his throat and groaned as he saw Lou's reddened face suddenly go white.

"Is there… uh… somethin' you two need to be tellin' me?" Teaspoon asked walking into the living room.

Lou buried her face in her hands. "How much did you hear?"

"Enough that I think the three of us have a little talk. Have a seat," he said, gesturing to the settee. He took a seat in the chair facing them by the fireplace. "I just don't understand. How did this happen?"

"How did what happen, Teaspoon?" Lou asked not wanting to give any more information than necessary.

"What d'you mean how? Him... you… the baby…" Teaspoon said pointing to the couple.

Kid blushed, "I think you know how, Teaspoon. You've been married six times after all."

Teaspoon chuckled. "That ain't what I'm talking about. What I'm talking about is why."

"Why, what?" Lou asked.

"Why in God's name I never noticed. He looks just like a tiny Kid. Now tell me everything, startin' at the beginning."

Kid and Lou went on to tell how they met and all the events leading up to her working at the station.

"Why did you two felt the need to keep it a secret? Lou, why didn't you at least tell me he was your baby?"

"I don't know, Teaspoon. Maybe ..." Lou tried to find the right words. "Maybe 'cause we thought you'd have to fire us."

"Why would I do a foolish thing like that?" Teaspoon asked puzzled.

"The company's got rules about this kinda thing… Kid's not supposed to socialize with other employees. Not like we've been. And you work for the company."

"I know that, but company's company and family's family. And I always thought of you boys ... and you and Jedidiah as family. And a family sticks together."

"You mean we can stay?" Kid asked hopeful

"I don't see why not. Unless you two got some other secrets you're keeping from me." Lou shook her head and Kid put his arm around Lou's shoulders, sighing in relief. "Matter of fact, I'm kinda relieved. I was beginning to worry 'bout all the time Kid was spendin' up here." Teaspoon grinned when Kid shifted uncomfortably in his seat. "Don't think I ain't noticed you sneakin' up here in the middle of the night."

"What about the others?" Lou asked.

"Well it's up to you two whether or not you want to tell them, but I think they have a right to know. It would at least put an end to all the bettin' that's been goin' on since the baby showed up."

"I guess breakfast is as good a time as any," Kid suggested. "Everyone's already sleepin' by now. Was there another reason why you came over, Teaspoon?"

Teaspoon shook his head. "Nothin' that can't wait till tomorrow and breakfast will be fine." Teaspoon rose and headed towards the door. "Kid, don't stay up too late tonight," he added with a wink as he walked outside.

Lou took a deep breath and smiled. "I'm glad we don't have to hide things anymore. And I'm sorry I yelled at you earlier."

"You were right, Lou. I wasn't thinkin' about Jed when I left for a run. But from now on that's gonna change. I can't guarantee you that nothin' will happen while I'm out on a run, but at least now, I'll be more careful."

"Well maybe knowin' how I feel will help you remember that. Can you do that?"

"I'll try."

"That's all I can ask. I love you, Kid."

"I love you too, Lou."

Kid kissed her again like he had before they started fighting and Lou took his arm. But this time, she led him to her bedroom.

By the time they reached the master bedroom, Kid's shirt was already untucked and unbuttoned and the fly of his pants untied. He shut the door, locking it, and when he turned around, Lou was already undressed and lying on the bed.

"Lou, you're killin' me," he growled, removing his clothes as he crossed the room to the bed. She held out her arms, and he was immediately wrapped in her warm embrace.

"Killin' you is the last thing I plan on doin' tonight," she replied huskily. She rolled him over on to his back and began working her way down his chest. She placed several light kisses on the bandage covering his wound and giggled as he groaned in anticipation.

Lou moved back up his body and straddled his hips. As Kid started to protest, she slowly eased herself on to him, stifling any further protests with her mouth.

Kid groaned as her tight muscles worked their magic. Having waited so long for this moment, he grabbed her waist and tried to slow her down. The more Kid tried to slow her, the faster she would go.

Sitting up and pulling her into his lap, Lou groaned in pleasure at the new sensations he was causing. He was reaching areas she didn't know existed, and she nearly came as she felt him gently sucking on her nipple.

Kid was too close to going over the edge. He had wanted their first time after so long to be special, but the year apart was just too much for him. Wanting Lou to go over with him, he reached down where they were joined and began teasing her where they were joined while nibbling on her neck.

"Come on honey," he urged her increasing the speed of his thrusts. Lou met them with the same urgency moaning as she felt the pressure inside her building.

Kid flipped her over as he felt her muscles tighten around him and with one last thrust, began emptying himself as they came together.

Resting his forehead against hers, he worried as he saw her tears start to fall. "I'm sorry Lou. I didn't mean to hurt you. I should've…"

Lou placed her finger to her lips and shook her head. "You didn't. I'd just forgotten how you make me feel when we're together."

"I didn't mean for it to be over so quickly," he said, rolling off her and pulling her beside him.

"I know, but we have all night," she grinned as she placed her head on his chest. "And now that everyone will soon know our secret, we'll have many nights to go slow."

Lightly scratching her back and shoulders, an idea popped into his head, and he smiled.

"What's that grin for?" Lou asked.

"Just thinkin' about those nights ahead."

Lou moved her hand downwards and wrapped it around him. "Let's worry more about tonight. In a few hours I'll have a station full of hungry boys, including our son, who'll all be wantin' breakfast."

"Well I'm hungry now," Kid growled in her ear. "But not for food."

He rolled her over on to her back, and for the first time, noticed the changes in her body. Her once small breasts were now larger and fuller. He took the time to gently knead one breast as he sucked on the nipple of the other, causing Lou to moan. Kid looked up grinning at her and then continued his exploration downwards.

Her once flat and smooth stomach was now more rounded and faded stretch marks crisscrossed it, providing further proof that she had indeed carried the miracle they created. He tried to imagine what she would have looked like heavily pregnant with his child, and silently prayed that he would one day get the chance to see her that way.

Lou began to worry when she noticed Kid staring at her stomach. No matter how much she tried, she couldn't seem to loose the remaining weight she had put on during her pregnancy, and she wondered if the stretch marks would turn Kid off. Her question was answered when she felt him trace them with his tongue. She squirmed under him as his tongue tickled her sensitive flesh.

Kid had forgotten how ticklish Lou could be and delighted as she squirmed under him. "You like that, don't ya?" he asked playfully.

"Kid," she begged.

"Kid what? Tell me what you want, Lou."

"I want you. Please, Kid."

Kid stuck his nose in her belly button and shook his head. Lou groaned, knowing he was going to torture her. He was going to prolong this as long as he could, and she didn't know how much she could stand.

Kid continued his way downward leaving a trail of kisses. Lou groaned as he began kissing her most sensitive place. Knowing what she wanted almost more than anything, slowly he continued down one leg, tickling the back of her knee then sucking on each toe before repeating the process in reverse on the other leg.

"Kid," Lou begged, shivering in anticipation.

Kid finally gave into her pleas. He started gently nipping at her bud as he inserted a finger into her. Lou grabbed him by the hair and guided him to the rhythm that would bring her the quickest release. Knowing this, Kid refused to let her guide him and continued with his tender ministrations, alternating his fingers and tongue, or adding more or less fingers, or changing the rhythm as she got closer and closer.

Kid kept bringing Lou closer and closer to the edge but refused to let her go over. She didn't know how much longer she could continue. Finally finding the strength, she wrapped her legs around his upper body, trapping him, and arched up against him.

Kid knew Lou was enjoying the slow torture as much as he loved doing it to her. Each time she moaned, he felt his arousal getting stronger and stronger. He knew he would need to give her the release she sought before he came, and when she locked her legs around him, he knew she was ready.

Lou groaned in frustration as Kid removed his fingers from her. Thinking he wasn't going to allow her release, she was surprised when she felt him grab her buttocks, bringing her even closer to him. His tongue continued to drive her wild, and just when she thought she couldn't take any more, Kid slid a finger into each of her openings, immediately sending her over the edge in a way she never knew existed.

Kid felt Lou's muscles tighten around his fingers as she cried out in ecstasy, almost sending him over the edge as well. He continued with his tongue, drinking all she had to offer as she continued shuddering around him. As she began to come back down from her high, Kid slowly moved up her body, his arousal becoming stronger.

Lou felt Kid teasing her opening as the last shivers of her climax subsided. "Kid," she pleaded, shaking her head. After what he just put her through, she deserved a chance to torture him as well.

Kid, sensing her hesitation, immediately pulled back and sat up. "Lou? Are you ok?"

Lou grinned at him and pushed him down on his back and pinned his arms at his side. "I am now," she answered trying hard not to giggle.

Kid chuckled as he realized he played right into her little game. "You ain't playin' fair," he said. He groaned as he felt Lou's mouth surround the tip of his head. "Lou…"

Lou released him and looked up at him grinning. "Fair is fair, Kid," she said licking her lips. Kid groaned as she slowly licked her way up his chest, kissing each new scar and flicking each nipple till they stood erect. She slid her hand back down between his legs, gently cupping his sac, while moving up to nibble on his ear. She giggled as she felt Kid tense under her.

She worked her way back down his body grabbing the base of his penis, and began slowly jerking him off as she ran her tongue all over his rock hard shaft. Kid closed his eyes and sucked in his breath as he felt Lou take him completely down to his balls. Her bottom teeth lightly grazed his sensitive flesh on the upstrokes, and her tongue traced the same path on her way back down.

"Lou," he pleaded. "If you keep doin' that, I'm not gonna last much longer."

Lou looked up at Kid grinning before going back to taking as much of him as she could. She knew if he came now, they'd have to wait before they made love again, but she didn't care. He'd always made her stop before, but now she was in control and wanted it all. He was getting closer and the harder he became, the less she was able to take down her throat.

When he felt her grab the base of his penis that she couldn't fit, he knew she had no intentions of quitting. He tried squirming under her, and when that didn't work, he tried tickling her. But feeling her throat vibrate with laughter around him was too much, and he exploded harder than he ever had.

Lou felt Kid jerk under her and was rewarded for her efforts. He screamed out her name in ecstasy over and over as he shot load after load of his seed down her throat. Lou took all he had to offer and felt her own moisture begin to pool again. When Kid finally released the last of his seed, she released his still hard cock and slid up his body.

Kid was sure he had lost consciousness because the next thing he knew, he felt Lou's wet heat surrounding him. He groaned as she slowly moved up and down on his sensitive member. He tried grabbing her by the waist to get some control of the situation, but she refused to relinquish control.

He realized that he could never get enough of her and realized he'd forgotten how tight and wet she could get and how they fit together so perfectly. He wanted for them to remain joined as one, not just for tonight but also for the rest of their lives.

Lou looked at down at Kid and was worried when she saw he had tears in his eyes. "Kid? What's wrong with you?"

"Just realized how much I love you, s'all."

Lou smiled and leaned down to kiss him, "I love you too. More than you'll ever know."

Kid reached up and started to play with her breasts and tweaked her nipples until they stood out erect. She moaned and arched against him, increasing her rhythm and using her muscles to encourage him to go over the edge with her.

Kid rolled Lou over, both of them groaning as he slipped out of her. Kid entered her again, gently this time, thrusting slowly to prolong their lovemaking as long as possible. He knew she was close to the edge, and she begged him to go faster. She wrapped her legs around his waist trying to pull him as deep as she could, increasing her thrusts so he had no choice but to meet them. Soon he felt her tighten around him even more and her breathing became ragged.

"Kid… Oh god!" Lou hollered.

Kid chuckled at how vocal she became and quickly silenced her with his mouth. He stilled himself waiting for her spasms to subside, and it was killing him. Soon she was urging him to continue, and he did, picking up the pace, thrusting into her as if there was no tomorrow.

Lou wasn't sure how much more she could take. She knew Kid would hold back until she was ready to come again, but she was still weak from her last orgasm, and it was getting harder to keep her legs wrapped around him. She moved her hands down to caress his cheeks and to pull him as close and as deep as possible.

Kid felt Lou urging him towards his climax. He was getting close but wanted to bring Lou with him. He pulled out of her and had her turn over on her stomach. With one hand he pulled her against him as he entered her from behind while his other hand sought out her curls and began rubbing her in rhythm with his thrusts. Soon Lou met him thrust for thrust, and he increased the pressure with his hand as he felt himself about to come.

Lou felt Kid tense above her and placed her hand over his to help him bring her over the edge with him. As she felt him starting to empty himself inside her, she finally reached her own release and buried her face in to the pillow to keep from screaming out in ecstasy again.

Exhausted and sated, Kid collapsed on top of Lou as the last of his seed was released. Wrapping his arms around her, he turned them onto their sides and kissed the back of her neck. He chuckled as Lou hugged his arms tightly against her.

"What's so funny?" she asked.

"Just thinkin' it's a good thing Jed's room is across the hall. The way the headboard was bangin' against the wall… And with the way you yelled out, I think the guys in the bunkhouse now know what's goin' on."

Lou laughed as well and then turned to face him. "You weren't so quiet yourself."

Kid looked into her eyes, and his heart swelled with pride. "What can I say, you bring out the beast in me."

"In that case, next time I'll bring a saddle and try to break your spirit."

Kid smiled, "I like the idea of a next time. I love you so much, Lou."

Lou kissed him lightly on the lips. "I love you too, Kid." Lou turned back over and before long, both were asleep in each other's arms.

Chapter 8

The next morning Lou stretched and turned over, disappointed to find Kid already gone. Getting out of bed she realized it was later that she thought. Jed usually woke her by now and she was sure the boys were claiming they were starving because breakfast was late.

Dressing quickly, she hurried down the stairs and laughed at the site that greeted her. Kid was trying to feed their son, but was wearing more of the food than Jed was eating. Charlotte, covered from head to toe in flour, was looking in the oven, trying to check on the biscuits.

Kid heard Lou laugh and looked up. "How do you make this look so easy?"

Lou walked in to the kitchen and sat down beside him, showing him how to do it. "The trick is to make him think it tastes good. Why did you guys let me sleep so late?"

"After last night, I thought you might need it," Charlotte said with a wink and a smile. "But I didn't realize how hard cooking would be."

Lou blushed and smiled at Kid.

"And after the past few days," Kid started. "The guys are all sleeping in."

"Charlotte, if you'll finish feeding Jed, I'll get breakfast started. We don't want to kill them their first day back."

Kid gave her look of feigned hurt. "What am I suppose to do?"

"Go get washed up and get back to the bunkhouse before anyone finds out you never came back last night. Wake them up and tell them breakfast'll be ready in less than an hour."

Kid nodded and kissed her cheek. "Are you nervous about telling them?"

Lou squeezed his hand. "Not as long as you're there with me. With you, I can get through anything."

~~ ** ~~

An hour later, everyone, including Charlotte and Jedidiah, were in the bunkhouse eating breakfast. Kid was nervous and anxious and remained silent while everyone regaled Lou and Charlotte of their escapades during their two-week absence. Finally Teaspoon cleared his throat.

"Boys, there's a coupla announcements that need to be made. One not so good, the other… well hopefully you'll think is good."

"What's that, Teaspoon?" Cody asked with a mouth full of food.

"Well, when we got back yesterday, seems there was a letter from the head office waitin' for me. Now you boys know a war is comin' and the folks up in Washington have decided that word will need to travel faster than it has when it does."

The room got silent, many of the occupants knowing what he meant.

*What does that mean for us?* Ike asked.

"Well boys, it means the Express will be shuttin' down."

"When?" Buck asked.

"Not real sure, Buck. But we're to continue to deliver the mail we get like always. At least 'til we're told otherwise."

Everyone was quiet for several minutes realizing what Teaspoon meant. They would soon be out of work, and it was time to start thinking of the future.

"What's the other announcement?" Jimmy asked finally breaking the silence.

Teaspoon looked at Lou then Kid. When neither said anything, he knew he needed to give them a push in the right direction. "Well it looks like I've solved a mystery 'round here."

"What's that?" Noah questioned.

Teaspoon took Jed from Charlotte and bounced him on his knee. "Seems I know who is the responsible ones for this little guy."

"Good, now I'll have a nice nest egg to get me through losin' my job," Cody joked. "Who is it?"

Kid looked at his plate, slowly moving his remaining food around. He was still in shock over Teaspoon's announcement. "I am," he mumbled.

"What?" Every rider exclaimed watching him. That was the last thing any of them expected, and many of them found it more shocking then Teaspoon's news.

Lou smiled imaging what they were each thinking. "And I'm his mother."

"I'll be damned," Noah said first shaking his head. "The Kid has a kid."

Everyone started asking questions and Kid and Lou answered as many as they could. As the shock of Teaspoon's announcement wore off, Kid began to relax. He had one more announcement that only he and Charlotte knew about.

"I have another announcement." Kid stood up and crossed the room. "Lou, what I got to say to you, it ain't easy."

"Alright," she said looking at him strangely.

"Trust me, this'll be easier if you just don't interrupt ... If any of you don't interrupt. Now Lou, what I got to say to you, it ain't easy. But it's time it got said. Now, you know how I feel about you."

"I don't mind bein' reminded..." Lou giggled when she realized she had interrupted him. "Oh, sorry..."

Kid grinned knowing she wouldn't be able to keep quiet. Kid reached into his pocket and got down on one knee. Lou's eyes widened as she realized what he was about to do.

"Uh oh." Teaspoon said smiling. Kid shot him a look that quieted his and any other remarks that his friends may have.

"Louise McCloud, will you ... marry ..."

Lou didn't let him finish. She knelt down next to him and kissed him. The other riders laughed.

"Guess that means yes." Teaspoon laughed.

"Guess so." Jimmy added shaking his head in amazement.

Lou finally broke the kiss and nodded. "Yes, Kid. I'll marry you!"

Kid placed the ring on her finger, picked her up and twirled her around.

"So who won the bet?" Cody asked knowing he was out twenty dollars. He had thought Jimmy was a sure thing.

Buck pulled out his notebook they often used to keep track of the bets they made and shook his head in disbelief. "Lou."

Everyone laughed.

Epilogue

The next couple of months were busy around the station. The runs eventually slowed down and the riders began looking for other work or making plans for the future. Cody was planning on joining the army as a scout, Jimmy planned on working for Teaspoon as a deputy, Noah had decided to go back to buying and freeing slaves, and Kid and Lou spent the time planning their wedding. Even Charlotte had decided on staying in Sweetwater after meeting a nice man who didn't care about her past. She and Lou planned on opening a dress shop in town once the couple returned from their brief honeymoon.

The day of the wedding Kid and Lou both woke nervous wrecks. Jed was teething and had kept Lou up most of the night. Teaspoon finally took him into the tack room with him so the bride could get a few hours of sleep before her big day and Kid had spent the night tossing and turning in his bunk, keeping the others awake.

Lou and Charlotte left for the church early so Lou could get ready while Kid paced the bunkhouse nervously. He'd been ready almost since he woke up and as much as he was looking forward to having Lou as his wife, he was ready for the day to be over.

"Ya nervous Kid?" Jimmy asked trying to straighten his tie.

"A little. Jimmy, I wanna thank you for givin' Lou away. It means a lot to us."

"I'm honored you two asked. I'd been wonderin' if there was somethin' going on between the two of you." Jimmy laughed at the look Kid gave him. "All them nights you snuck out… Kid I know you love your horse, but I figured there was someone you loved more. Now come on, let's get you married!"

~~ ** ~~

Kid stood on the steps of the church fidgeting while he greeted the guests. His Express family standing beside him, mainly making sure he didn't run. This was one bet everyone agreed on; Kid was going to get married today and they were going to make sure of it.

Teaspoon noticed Kid's behavior and looked at his watch "Gettin' impatient, Kid?"

Kid looked at Teaspoon's watch and nodded. "Let's get goin'. I think it's time to get married."

The riders entered the church and took their seats. Kid started to sit with them, but Teaspoon ushered him to the front of the church. He nodded to the musician to start the music and then motioned for the guests to stand. As the doors opened and Lou entered, Teaspoon had to turn Kid around to face his bride.

Kid stood there breathless. Lou had never looked as beautiful as she did in her simple white gown. She saw him watching her and blushed. When she finally reached him, she smiled and whispered that she loved him. Kid nodded, too stunned to even move. Again, Teaspoon had to turn Kid around so they could start.

"Alright, let's see now," Teaspoon started, flipping through his bible. "Oh yeah… Dearly beloved. We are gathered here today in the sight of God and in the face of this company to join together this man and this woman in holy matrimony. Marriage is the most serious commitment one can make, but if two people are more suited for each other to get hitched, then I haven't met them. Take my word for it; nobody knows more about marriage then me."

Everyone laughed and grew anxious knowing what was coming. "Now the moment we've all been waiting for. Louise, do you promise to take... Time to fess up, Kid."

Kid groaned and then whispered something in Teaspoon's ear. Lou had already accepted the fact that she would never know his true name, but the look on Teaspoon's face made her curious. When he cleared his throat and raised an eyebrow, she really wanted to know.

"Louise, do you promise to take... Kid," everyone in the church groaned. Lou chuckled. "Do you take Kid to be your lawful wedded husband? To love and cherish, to honor and obey, in sickness and in health, till death do you part?

Lou smiled. "I do."

"Kid, do you promise to take Louise to be your lawful wedded wife? To love and cherish, to honor and obey, in sickness and in health, till death do you part?"

Kid had never wanted anything more, and his eyes showed it as he looked at her. "I do."

"You may now exchange the rings."

Kid began searching his suit for the ring to give Lou. He groaned when he couldn't remember bringing it with him. He saw Lou fidgeting and smiled when she pulled it from her bouquet and kissed it before giving it to him.

Kid placed the ring on her finger and was so choked with emotion, could barely say, "With this ring, I do thee wed."

Lou took another ring from her bouquet and placed it on his finger. "And with this ring, I do thee wed."

"By the powers vested to me by the Territorial Governor, I now pronounce you man and wife. You may kiss the bride."

Kid could hardly believe they were now joined as husband and wife. He'd waited for this day for so long and now it was here.

"Kid," Teaspoon prompted. "Kiss her."

Lou started to laugh and Kid silenced her with a kiss. When Lou heard their guests oohing and ahhing, she chuckled, breaking the kiss.

~~ ** ~~

After the wedding, the couple and their invited guests went to the town hall for the reception. Kid and Lou danced as they had the first time, lost in each other's love, with no sense of time and those around them. They broke apart only when someone asked to cut in, but both remained anxious to stay together.

As it was getting near to the time they were to leave, Kid looked at his wife and smiled. "I love you, Lou. I can't imagine spendin' the rest of my life without you and Jedidiah in it."

Lou looked up with a saucy grin. "How would you feel about him havin' a little brother or sister added to the family?"

Kid took a step back and looked at Lou with surprise. "You mean?"

Lou giggled and nodded. "But this time, we'll go through it," she whispered in his ear, "together."



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