Life's Little Stories

by Luci Williams

"Stage coach is coming in any minute now," frowned Vin as he glanced out the window of the saloon. Buck merely grunted in acknowledgment as he poured himself another drink. "Come on we should go meet it, just in case."

"Let's go," agreed Buck reluctantly as he downed his drink in one shot. Getting up the two men headed out of the saloon doors and into the street. When they arrived at the spot where the stagecoach was scheduled to arrive they leaned against the porch beams boredly and waited. A minute later they could see the tell tale signs of dust on the horizon as the coach came near. Moments later it came to stop directly in front of Vin and Buck. The driver climbed down from his perch and started to unload the luggage while two businessmen got out and stretched their legs. They took their cases and started to head towards the hotel.

"Well I guess that's it," shrugged Vin as he started to head back.

"Not quite," said Buck as he saw movement from within the coach. A second later the door opened again and this time a young lady stepped out. She thanked the driver as he handed her a small carrying case. As he pulled away she remained standing in the middle of the street looking around.

"Well I do believe that that pretty little thing is lost," smiled Buck as he moved forward to help her out.

"I have a feeling I'd better come along so that you don't 'accidentally' end up giving her directions to your room," grinned Vin as he joined Buck.

"Good morning Ma'am," greeted Buck with a tip of his hat. "Can I help you?"

"Oh yes," she smiled brightly as she turned in their direction. "I'm looking for JD Dunne, I believe he's the sheriff here. Do you know where I could find him?"

"He's probably in the sheriff's office," answered Vin glancing in that direction.

"Oh yes I see it thank you."

"Here let me carry that for you," offered Buck as he reached for the bag.

"Oh no that's ok thank you," she smiled as she pulled it back slightly. "I'm going to check into the hotel and rest for awhile before I see the sheriff but it's a surprise visit so I would appreciate you not mentioning my arrival if you see him."

"Of course Ma'am," nodded Vin.

"We'll see you later," Buck called after her.

"Oh you certainly will," she called back as she headed towards the hotel.

"Now how would JD know such a lovely creature?" mused Buck.

"I have a feeling we'll find out," replied Vin as they headed back towards the saloon.

After the young lady had finished unpacking in the room she had rented she took a bath and washed away the dust from her long journey. When she had finished redressing she went outside to explore the town. She was excited to see JD but she wasn't in any hurry to find him. Not being in the mood to do any shopping she skipped the main street and started to look elsewhere. She soon found herself approaching a stable. As she got closer she realized that someone was in there when she heard a voice. Hitching up the bottom of her skirt she snuck forward as she followed the voice. She soon found herself standing outside a stall. Peeking around the corner she saw a man talking to his horse as he slowly brushed it. At first she tried to make out what he was saying but he was using big complicated words that she couldn't understand so she just let herself be carried away by his soothing southern accent.

As the voice continued to speak she closed her eyes and leaned back against the wall. She was completely at ease when suddenly the voice stopped. Opening her eyes she turned to see what the man was doing. She didn't get very far before she found her nose two inches away from a pair of legs. Slowly looking up she saw the man staring down at her with a look of annoyance and amusement.

"Oh hello," she gasped as she scrambled to her feet and wiped her dress off.

"Ma'am," smirked Ezra as he looked her over. "Do you always congregate in stables?"

"Of course not," she huffed not really understanding the question and hoping her answer was right. "Do you always talk to your horse?"

"Frequently, I find that of all the inhabitants of this town he possesses the best conversational skills," he talked so seriously that it took her a second to realize that he was joking and then she started to laugh.

"I had thought I had had the honor of meeting all the fine young ladies in Four Corners but I don't believe we've been aquatinted."

"That's because I just arrived here."

"Do you plan to reside here on a permanent basis?"

"Well that depends."

"On what?"

"On how much I enjoy it here."

"Well I'm sure that you'll find Four Corners engaging enough to maintain your interest."

"Well I like what I see so far." She smiled mischievously.

"May I offer you the grand tour so that you might see the other enticing features?" Ezra asked returning her smile.

"Why I would be charmed sir."

"Then let us commence," Ezra said as he offered her his arm. "I don't believe I caught your name."

"You may call me Juliet."

"Very well then you may call me Romeo." He smiled as he led her out of the stable and started the tour.

Later that night Vin, Buck, JD and Josiah were sitting in the saloon.

"So any excitement today JD?" asked Vin with a smile.

"No, some new wanted posters arrived buts that's all," JD replied boredly. Vin and Buck exchanged looks when they realized that whoever this mystery lady was she hadn't come calling on JD yet.

"Well I have a feeling things are going to pick up," grinned Buck as he looked over JD's shoulder to the saloon doors. The lady in question had just entered and after looking around for a second started to head their way.

"What do you mean?" frowned JD.

"Oh my goodness has anyone seen the sheriff?" she cried as she approached JD from behind and stopped.

"I'm the sheriff. What's the problem…" JD said quickly getting up and turning to face her. As soon as he saw her he stopped and stared open mouthed. "Izzy," he cried as he regain his senses and gave her an affectionate hug. "What are you doing here? Why didn't you write and tell me you were coming?" he demanded as he pulled out a chair for her at the table.

"Well it was kind of a spur of the moment thing," Izzy smiled as she sat down.

"Wow," was all JD could say as he returned to his seat.

"Are you going to introduce us to the young lady?" Josiah asked with a grin.

"Huh?" JD looked up as he remembered his friends were at the table. "Oh sorry. This is my sister Isabelle. Izzy these are some of the guys I've told you about in my letters. This Buck Wilmington, Josiah Sanchez and Vin Tanner."

"Oh I've already had the pleasure of meeting Mr. Wilmington and Mr. Tanner." Izzy smiled as each of the men nodded to her in greeting. "They were kind enough to give me directions when I arrived this morning."

"Well that's what we're here for Miss," smiled Buck suavely. "If you ever need anything you just come and ask me."

"I'm sure I can help you with whatever you need," interrupted JD not liking the way Buck was looking at his sister.

"Well if I had know that there were this many gentlemen in Four Corners I would have come sooner."

"So what have you been up to all day Miss?" asked Josiah.

"Well after getting settled in at the hotel I had a little tour of your town."

"Why didn't you come to see me sooner?" protested JD. "I would have shown you around.

You know you really shouldn't be wandering around a strange place all by yourself."

"Who said I was all by myself?"

"You came with a friend?" guessed JD hopefully.

"No, I was looking around when I ran into a gentleman grooming his horse. We started talking and he offered to show me around.

"You went off with a stranger?"

"Like momma always said a stranger is just a friend you haven't meet yet and besides I'm perfectly capable of taking care of myself JD."

"Yeah, yeah I know," sighed JD having heard that speech many times before. "Well at least tell me his name, if he's a regular here we might know him."

"Romeo."

"Romeo? What kind of name is that?"

"Well it's not his real name. You see I introduced myself as Juliet so he introduced himself as Romeo."

"I don't get it."

"It's a Shakespeare play. Romeo and Juliet, it's about two star crossed lovers."

"You know I've always been a bit of a romantic myself." Buck smiled as he leaned in closer to her.

"Really? You don't strike me as the romantic type Mr. Wilmington."

"Well looks can be deceiving. You won't know to look but underneath this rough, tough exterior I have a sensitive side a mile wide."

"Come on Izzy you must be tired. I'll take you back to your hotel room," said JD standing up and giving Buck a cold look.

"Oh but I'm having such fun getting to know your friends," Izzy protested.

"I have an idea," spoke up Josiah. "How about we all have dinner together tomorrow night, that way you'll get your rest and you can meet Chris, Ezra and Nathan."

"That's a marvelous idea," agreed Izzy whole-heartedly. "Well then I will see you gentlemen tomorrow."

"Good night Miss," said Vin as Josiah gave a nod of his head and Buck simply smiled.

"You know Four Corners is actually quite a pretty place," mused Izzy as they got outside and started towards the hotel.

"I can't believe Ma gave you permission to come out here and on your own no less," sighed JD in disbelief.

"Oh that reminds me if you write to momma you can't mention me being here."

"Why not?"

"Well…because I told her I was going to visit Aunt Martha in San Francisco."

"You did what?"

"And then I told Aunt Martha I was staying with Momma."

"I should have know," groaned JD as he tried to wrap his mind around his sisters twisted logic. "So how long do you figure you have until they figure out what's going on?"

"As long as I want. This is a foolproof plan. Unfortunately it's not JD proof so you have to promise you'll keep this secret."

"You can't just go running off whenever the urge strikes you."

"Why not? That's exactly what you did."

"That's different."

"How is it different?"

"Well I'm older…"

"Not by much," protested Izzy.

"And I'm a man," JD finished giving Izzy a soft shove as she giggled at the last comment.

"I'm sorry but I can't help it. To me you'll always be fish face," Izzy smiled as she pinched his cheek.

"If you call me that in front of any of the other guys…" JD warned her.

"Oh relax sheriff," she said as they arrived at the hotel and JD escorted her up to her room.

"How bout I pick you up tomorrow morning and we have breakfast together."

"I would like that, I missed you you know."

"I missed you too. Good night," smiled JD as he turned to leave.

"Night fish face," Izzy called shutting the door before he could reply.

Back in the saloon Vin, Buck and Josiah were still sitting at the table when the door opened and the remaining three regulators came in. Seeing them sitting there they came over to join them.

"Evening," said Chris as he sat down and poured himself a drink.

"Any news?" Josiah asked about the scouting mission Chris and Nathan had gone on.

"The bank in Little Rock was robbed. They shot one of the guys dead but the other two got away. There hasn't been any report of them since then," explained Chris.

"We think they may be hiding out in the hills for awhile but they'll head to town once their supplies run out so we should keep our eyes open," finished Nathan.

"Anything to report here?" asked Chris.

"Nope not a single renegade or outlaw all day," said Vin.

"Just one very pretty young lady," smiled Buck.

"Oh and who would this be?"

"Would you believe JD's sister?" laughed Josiah.

"My god you mean there's another one?" questioned Ezra rising an eyebrow.

"What's she doing in Four Corners?" asked Chris.

"Visiting JD I gather," answered Vin. "We've been invited to have dinner with them tomorrow."

"Sounds like fun," smiled Nathan. "I'd like to meet her."

"Tomorrow?" frowned Ezra.

"Yeah, do you have other pressing social plans?" asked Buck with a grin.

"No, I believe I'm available," Ezra said. He had been hoping to meet up with Juliet tomorrow but it looked like he would be spending his evening with the regulators and JD's bratty kid sister instead. He decided to come and make a quick appearance to be polite and then leave.

"Well I'll see you guys then," said Josiah as they finished up their drinks and headed off in their separate directions.

The next morning when Izzy got up she quickly got dressed and went downstairs. JD was already sitting on one of the couch's waiting for her.

"Morning." She smiled as she came up behind him and ruffled his hair.

"Good morning," he replied as he got up. "How did you sleep?"

"Very well, I had a dream you know."

"You don't still believe that you can see the future in your dreams do you?" groaned JD as they headed over to the restaurant.

"Hey I was right about our goat dying."

"The goat was twelve years old," protested JD. "Of course it was going to die."

"True but how many goats get hit by lightening?"

"Ok, I admit that was weird. So what was this dream about?" he asked as they sat down at a table.

"It wasn't a complete dream just fragments," Izzy explained after they had ordered. "A campfire, shooting and then I was…I was swimming," she finished unsurely as she tried to remember the dream.

"Anyway I thought you could spend the day with Mrs. Travis since I have to work. You could have tea or something."

"Tea?" repeated Izzy frowning.

"I'm sure you'll have a lot to talk about. Come on Izzy I have enough to worry about without you running wild around town.

"Of course, I wouldn't want to worry you. I'll go see Mrs. Travis."

"She should be at the newspaper office by now do you want me to walk you over?"

"Oh no that's alright. I remember where that is, you go do you're your job."

"Thanks," smiled JD as he got up to leave. "I'll see you later today."

"Bye now." Izzy waved till JD was out of sight and then she waited a couple more minutes just to be sure. Getting up she walked out of the hotel and promptly started walking in the opposite direction of the newspaper office. She wasn't sure where Romeo might be so she decided to start back at the stables. Besides she thought with a smile what JD didn't know couldn't hurt him. As she got closer she lightened her step and crept up to the same stale. As she peeked around the corner she broke out into a broad smile as she saw him leaning casually against the wall reading the day's newspaper.

"Are you going to come in or did you intend to scrutinize me all day?" asked Ezra as he smiled not looking up from his paper.

'Well of all the things to scrutinize in this town you would certainly be my first choice," grinned Izzy as she came in and walked over to him.

"And may I say you're looking particularly radiant this morning."

"Why thank you sir. So we're young and we're beautiful. What is there for people of our stature to do in this place?"

"I'm afraid this town does not offer much in the way of entertainment."

"Well what do you do to keep yourself busy? I mean besides gamble."

"Now what you led you to suppose that I gamble?" asked Ezra trying to look innocent.

"Well both yesterday and today you've carried that pack of playing cards with you. Who else but a gambler has their own pack of cards and carries them around with them everywhere?"

"Your observational skills are uncanny. Are there anymore deductions you would like to make?"

"Well considering you're habit of wearing fancy clothes I'm guessing that you're good."

"Ma'am I am one of the best."

"Then you should be good enough to teach me." She smiled as she picked up the cards and started to shuffle them.

"Teach you?" echoed Ezra amused.

"My brother taught me the basics but that was awhile ago so you'll have to refresh my memory."

"Alright, this should prove to be interesting," agreed Ezra as they sat down and the lesson began.

Later that night, the regulators had gathered at the Hotel restaurant to have dinner with JD's sister. Everyone was there except for Ezra, he had said that he would be a little late for he had been extremely busy most of the day and had unfortunately lost track of time.

"I wonder who Ezra coned out of their inheritance today that he lost tack of time". Questioned Vin to no one in particular.

"I never say him in the saloon, so it must have been a private game" said Buck.

Just then Izzy gracefully came down the stairs. Everyone looked up to see her approaching. JD started towards her to escort her the rest of the way, however Buck made it there before him.

"You look radiant this evening Miss Isabelle," said Buck with a little nod of his head. "May I have the honor of escorting you to the table?"

"The honor would be mine," replied Izzy taking Buck's offered arm and walking to the table where the other regulators were standing.

Once Izzy was comfortably seated the others took their seats also. JD was on one side of her and Buck on the other. Izzy looked around. She didn't recognize two of the men, but she also noticed an empty chair across the table from her.

"Izzy, I'd like you to meet Mr. Chris Larabee and Mr. Nathan Jackson," said JD as he gestured to the two men that Izzy did not know.

"Pleased to meet you ma'am" replied Nathan.

"I hope you enjoy your stay in Four Corners," said Chris.

With that, the group ordered their dinner and then started up a conversation. Izzy was only really paying half attention to the conversation. She was reminiscing about all the fun her and Romeo had had today. Just then she heard her name and snapped back into the conversation.

"Izzy, did you and Ms. Travis have a good day together?" asked JD taking a drink.

"Oh, yes. We had a wonderful time. We talked and had tea and then talked some more," said Izzy hoping her brother and the other regulators would believe her.

"That funny," said Josiah. "I was just telling Ms. Travis about you this afternoon and she said that she would have to invite you over for tea."

JD almost choked on his drink when this new bit of information was brought to the table.

"Izzy, if you weren't with Ms. Travis today then where were you?" demanded JD as if he was questioning a suspect.

"I got a little side tracked. I did intend on going to Ms. Travis its just that I went for this little walk after breakfast and ran into someone and we just ended up talking till late this afternoon and then it was too late to go to Ms. Travis' so…."

"Who could you possibly spend the whole day with, there aren't that many women in Four Corners," asked Vin with curiosity.

Izzy blushed a little, what would JD do if he found out she had been with a gentleman all day, one she still didn't know his real name and that he had shown her how to play poker.

"Izzy who were you with all day?" demanded JD.

"I was with a man, the one I met yesterday," whispered Izzy. She could feel everyone's eyes on her.

"The one you said his name was Romeo or something," stated Buck.

"I don't know anyone by that name around here," said Chris matter of factly.

"Izzy I thought you had more sense then to…" Started JD but he was interrupted by Ezra's voice as he made his way to the table.

"I do apologize for my tardiness…" he started to say but stopped dead when he reached his seat and saw who was sitting across from him.

"What are you doing here?" both he and Izzy asked at the same time.

"Do you two know each other?" asked Nathan as he glanced between them.

"He's a friend of yours?" questioned Izzy as she turned to JD.

"Yeah, this is Ezra Standish."

"Well then I haven't been with a complete stranger after all."

"What are you talking about?" gasped JD.

"That's Romeo." She smiled indicating Ezra. "The man I've spent the last two days with."

"You're JD's sibling?" Asked Ezra shocked as he grasped onto what was going on.

"Yeah, that's me," Izzy laughed finding the whole thing amusing. "Isabelle Dunne to be precise."

"Please dear lady tell me you were adopted?" pleaded Ezra.

"Don't be silly. Sit down and join us," Izzy said with a wave of her hand.

"You've been with Ezra the last two days?" asked Vin.

"What could you possibly be doing with him?" objected JD. "You have nothing in common."

"Well yesterday Rome…Mr. Standish I mean was nice enough to give me a tour of your little town and then we spent today down at the stables."

"Doing what?" demanded JD.

"I was teaching your charming sister the finer points of poker," smiled Ezra relaxing as the pleasure of seeing Izzy surpassed the shock of finding out her true identity. "She's a remarkably quick study. It took her merely a fraction of the time it does most individuals to master the rules. She could have quite a future as a gambler with that fine combination of intelligence and physical beauty."

"Why Mr. Standish you just my have hit upon my life's calling," grinned Izzy.

"Don't be stupid," interrupted JD. "You are certainly not going to become a gambler."

"Why not?" asked Izzy still staring into Ezra's eyes. "It sounds intriguing."

"Because gamblers are dishonest people with no morals who use others to get what they want. People who are too stupid or lazy to make a living honestly," JD said hotly.

"JD why don't you just calm down before everyone in the restaurant hears you," said Josiah trying to calm him down.

"Really JD what's wrong with you?" demanded Izzy losing her patience.

"Nothing," said JD trying to remain calm. "I'm just looking out for your best interests."

"No you're trying to control me just like you always do and I'm sick of it. I'm a grown woman and I can take care of myself. Why can't you understand that?"

"Look why don't we talk about this later," hissed JD as he realized everyone was staring at them.

"I don't know why I even came to see you at all," Izzy scowled as she stood up and left the restaurant. As she passed through the doors Ezra stood up and started to follow her.

"Where do you think your going?" demanded JD.

"It isn't exactly safe for the young lady to be walking around town after dark all by herself and I don't think she wants to see you right now," said Ezra as he turned and left. As he came out of the building he looked to see Izzy walking down the street.

"Miss Dunne," he called as he went after her. "Juliet," he called when she didn't respond. At the sound of his second call she slowed down and looked back. Seeing that it was Ezra she stopped and waited for him to catch up with her.

"What?"

"Miss Dunne it's not safe for you to be wandering around at this time of night. Perhaps I can escort you to wherever you are going."

"I don't know where I'm going."

"Well then may I wander with you?"

"Ok, oh and call me Izzy."

"Only if you call me Ezra."

"It's a deal."

"Your brother must care for you a great deal to be this concerned for your well being," said Ezra as they continued to walk aimlessly.

"I know he loves me," Izzy sighed exasperated. "But why does he have to be so controlling?

It's like he doesn't trust me."

"He trusts you implicitly, it's me that he doesn't place confidence in and with good reason."

"Why? Just because you're a gambler?"

"And a con man. You see it's my job to tell people what they want to hear in order to deceive them and get what I want. You're brother is concerned that I'm using you like I have countless other people."

"Are you?" Izzy asked point blank.

"No, I'd be lying if I said the thought hadn't occurred to me when we first met but no not now."

"I believe you," smiled Izzy as she looked into his eyes.

"Are you cold?" asked Ezra as he saw her shiver.

"Just a bit. I'm afraid in my rush to leave I didn't bring a jacket."

"This should help warm you up," said Ezra as he took off his red jacket and help her on with it.

"Why thank you kind sir," smiled Izzy as she imitated Ezra's accent.

"Do you want to return now? JD is probably worried about your welfare."

"Let him worry a little longer. I don't want to got back just yet, do you mind?"

"Of course not, I'm delighted at the prospect of spending more time in your enchanting company."

"How about you teach me some more card tricks?"

"I do believe that I've taught you every trick I know and a few I just fabricated since you were having so much fun."

"Well then what else do you want to do?"

"I discovered a charming little spot just outside of town were we could sit and look at the stars."

"And how exactly did you come across this place?"

"It was right after a rather lucrative poker game. The gentleman I beat was none too happy. When he had consumed a fair amount of whiskey and came looking for me with his shot gun I thought it would be best if I vacated the area for awhile."

"Well let's go then," Izzy smiled as they headed towards the stable to get Ezra's horse, Chaucer.

The next morning Vin, Buck and Josiah were sitting out in front of the sheriff's office keeping an eye on the town and talking about last night's dinner.

"Did you see that look on JD's face? I thought he was going to have a conniption fit," laughed Vin.

"Well we know for sure now that she's a Dunne," grinned Josiah. "What with that natural talent of getting in trouble."

"Speaking of trouble here comes some now," said Buck as he saw JD approaching them. He was disheveled and looked like he hadn't slept.

"Have you seen Izzy?" he demanded.

"No, why don't you try her hotel room?" asked Vin.

"I already have. I stayed down in the hotel lobby waiting for her to return so we could talk but she never came back."

"I'm sure it isn't anything to worry about," assured Josiah.

"Nothing to worry about! She went off god knows where with Ezra. I'd say that was definitely something to worry about."

"Come on JD you know Ezra wouldn't harm your sister."

"Yeah, he probably just sold her to the highest bidder," added Buck looking serious.

"Oh my god, I didn't even think of that," gasped JD. "I have to go. I have to set up a posse and then we'll start a search…"

"Whoa there son," laughed Buck grabbing JD's shoulder to keep him from running off. "I was just joking."

"This is not a joke. My sister is missing."

"Look how bout we give her till noon and if nobody's seen her by then we'll get a posse together," suggested Vin.

"But…"

"Just till noon," repeated Vin.

"Ok," sighed JD unhappily. "I'm going to wait at the hotel in case she comes back."

"If any of us see her we'll come get you," assured Josiah. JD nodded and turned to go back to the hotel.

'"That boy has got to relax," laughed Buck as they watched him walk away.

"I can't believe it's so late…or rather so early," said Izzy as she and Ezra arrived back at the stable.

"Time does seem to pass exceedingly fast when we're together," smiled Ezra as he tied up Chaucer and gave him some food.

"I thought those stars were the most beautiful thing I had ever seen until I saw the sunrise. All those colors, it was breath taking."

"It certainly was an impressive display," agreed Ezra.

"You don't sound that impressed."

"I've seen things whose beauties have surpassed even that."

"Like what? Tell me what was the most beautiful thing you've ever seen."

"You should probably be getting back to the hotel in case your brother comes calling on you."

"You didn't answer the question," said Izzy as she playfully poked him in the chest.

"The most beautiful thing I have ever seen?" mused Ezra.

"Yes, tell me you infuriating man," Izzy laughed as she grabbed his coat by the lapels pretending to be threatening.

"That would have to be the sight of you gazing out at the stars last night." Ezra smiled as he put his arms around her waist. They were looking into each other's eyes when they heard a cough. Turning quickly they saw Vin standing there with a barely concealed smirk.

"What are you doing here?" gasped Izzy in surprise as she pulled out of Ezra's embrace.

"Sorry to interrupt but JD's looking for you. He's about to set up a search and rescue mission."

"Oh dear, where is he?"

"At the hotel waiting for you."

"I'm sorry I have to go but I'll see you later won't I?" she asked as she turned back to Ezra.

"That would be an accurate assumption."

"Great I'll see you then." Izzy smiled as she turned and quickly headed to the hotel.

"Miss. Isabelle is a nice girl," noted Vin as he leaned against the wall.

"She certainly is remarkable," agreed Ezra as he watched her leave.

"Nice girls are very trusting, they tend to take people at face value. They're perfect targets for people who want to use them and then throw them away. Then they usually get their hearts broken. I've always hated men who think they can treat women that way."

"What are you trying to imply Mr. Tanner?" asked Ezra with a frown.

"Just watch your step," Vin said as he turned and left.

Moment's later Izzy arrived at the hotel lobby. Looking around she saw JD sitting on one of the couches. He was fidgeting with his hat and kept looking at his watch. Izzy immediately felt a pang of regret.

"Hey there," she said softly as she sat next to him.

"Izzy," JD practically yelled in relief. "Where have you been? Are you alright?" he demanded as he gave her a hug.

"Why don't we go up to my room and talk about this?"

"Ok," nodded JD as he got up and followed her. They walked in silence until they had reached the room and JD shut the door behind them.

"JD I want to talk with you but I can't do that if you're going to get upset."

"I can't promise that."

"Will you at least promise to hear me out?"

"Ok. Now where were you?"

"I was with Ezra…"

"Ezra but…" JD started to object but quickly stopped as Izzy gave him a cold look.

"I was with Ezra and I didn't want to go back to the hotel so he offered to stay with me till I did. He took me to this place he knows and we sat and looked at the stars. I guess we lost track of the time cause the next thing I knew the sun was rising. Once we realized how long we had been gone we immediately came back."

"First I want to apologize for yelling last night," said JD trying to remain calm. "It's just that I know things that you don't. Things that could hurt you and I'm just making sure you're alright."

"Things such as what?"

"Well first spending two days with a complete stranger. You didn't even know his name. What if something had happened and I didn't even know where you where?"

"But he isn't a stranger. He's Ezra, a good friend of yours."

"Exactly and I know what Ezra's like better then you."

"And tell me what is Ezra like?"

"He's a gambler and a con man. Sure he seems nice and polite on the outside but that's just a show he puts on to fool people. Underneath it all, he really only cares about one thing: himself. I just don't want you to be hurt when you find out the only reason he's been paying attention to you is because he's trying to cheat you out of your money."

"Ezra wouldn't do that to me. He told me he wasn’t trying to con me and I believe him."

"But don't you see that's just what he wants you to think."

"JD do you think I'm stupid?"

"Of course not…"

"Then please trust my judgment on this one. If something's wrong I'll know it and I'll deal with it."

"But…"

"And if I can't handle it on my own I'll come to you."

"Ok," sighed JD seeing that that was the best that he was going to get at the moment. "But you have to promise me one more thing."

'What's that?"

"No more lying about where you're going or what you're doing."

"Deal," agreed Izzy as she hugged him. "Now how bout we both rest a bit and get cleaned up and then I'll meet you for lunch."

"I'll see you then," smiled JD as he left. After he was gone Izzy ordered a warm bath.

Ezra was going to return to his place and sleep awhile but he was surprised to find that he wasn't tired and instead he headed over to the saloon. He had just gotten a drink and sat down when Buck, Nathan and Josiah came in. Seeing him sitting there they came over to join him.

"Good morning," said Nathan as they sat down.

"It certainly is," agreed Ezra.

'"JD's looking for his sister. Seems she didn't come back to the hotel last night and he's all in a flap," spoke up Buck.

"Yes I am aware of the situation. Izzy and I encountered Vin upon our return to the stable and she went to meet JD post haste. If you ask my personal opinion, which I'm sure none of you gentleman care about, I think JD is a extremely over protective of that divine young woman."

"Well he is her big brother," pointed out Nathan.

"Still she was in my company all last night, what could possibly happen to her in my presence?"

"I think it was your presence that JD was worried about," grinned Josiah.

"What were the two of you up to all night anyway?" asked Buck.

"That certainly is none of your business."

"Now don't get us wrong Ezra, its not that we don't trust you. Its just that Miss. Isabelle is like JD in a lot of ways and from what I'm seeing I think she's starting to mentor you like JD does to Buck," explained Josiah.

"That kind of admiration can be a powerful force," added Nathan.

"Izzy has a mind of her own. JD does not control her and certainly neither do I."

"I'm just concerned that once she gets over being awe struck and comes to her senses…"

"Gentleman this conversation is over," announced Ezra coldly as he got up from the table and quickly headed out of the saloon. As he got outside he decided that he wasn't in the mood for anymore company and started back to his place. Maybe he would get some sleep after all. As he walked he couldn't help but think over what the guys had said. Sure he was a con, he admitted that freely. He was even proud of it. It's not like he hadn't told Izzy and besides the reason he liked to spend time with her had nothing to do with that. He spent time with her because…well she made him feel…hell he didn't know what he felt. This was all a new experience to him. The only relationships he was used to were the ones he had with his victims. You told them what they wanted to hear and as soon as they trusted you, you took what you wanted and moved on to the next sucker. There was nothing genuine or real about those relationships but with Izzy it was different.

Shaking his head with a frustrated sigh he was about to open his door when he saw a note tacked to it. Pulling it off he went inside and crashed on his bed before he read it.

Dear Ezra, I got everything straightened out with JD. We’re having lunch together but after that I'm free for the afternoon. I'll meet you down at the stables. From Izzy

Smiling he put the note into his pocket and lay back down on his bed to get a little sleep before he went out to meet her.

JD was walking down the street to the sheriff's office. He had just finished having lunch with Izzy and he was in a good mood. Izzy hadn't talk about Ezra; in fact his name had never even come up. JD had the feeling that her interest in Ezra was just a passing phase. Besides she would only be staying for a couple more days and then she would be going back home. As long as she didn't spend much time with Ezra during that time she couldn't get into any trouble.

Figuring that the whole situation was under control JD quickened his pace and started to whistle. Turning the corner he stopped whistling when he saw Ezra coming down the street towards him. He seemed to be in a hurry and he hadn't noticed JD standing there.

"Ezra," JD called out as Ezra passed by and he grabbed him by the elbow.

"Mr. Dunne I just purchased this attire and would appreciate you watching where you place your soiled hands," Ezra said as he pulled himself free of JD's grasp and wiped his elbow clean in annoyance.

"Oh sorry," apologized JD realizing from past experiences that Ezra's anger was not directed at him personally.

"Is there a reason you're impeding my progress?" he asked glancing down the street as if expecting to see someone.

"Well I just wanted to thank you for looking after Izzy last night," JD said rather grudgingly. As much as he was annoyed by Ezra's attention towards his sister he was also glad that someone was there looking after her.

"You are under no obligation to thank me, I took the course of action that any true gentleman would have."

"Well I wanted to thank you anyway. I was just going to the saloon do you want to come?" Asked JD hoping that once Ezra got there he would start up a poker game and forget about Izzy for at least that day. "I'll buy you a drink."

"As generous as your offer is I must decline. I already have an appointment for which I'm getting increasingly tardy as I stand here and converse with you. Now if you will excuse me," Ezra replied and not waiting for an answer he continued on his way. JD stared after him for a second before he started on to the sheriff's office with a shrug.

Meanwhile in the stable Izzy was waiting impatiently in Chaucer's stale. It was getting late and Ezra still hadn't shown up. As she waited she let her imagination get away from her. Maybe Ezra hadn't seen her note. Maybe he had and just decided not to come. Maybe JD found out and had arrested him. Maybe he was on his way over when something terrible happened. Izzy shook herself out of her reverie when she realized what she was doing.

"Hey Chaucer." She smiled as she went over to the horse and started to stroke him. "Where do you suppose that owner of yours is? Is he always fashionably late or do you think I've been stood up? You know I've never had the best of luck when it comes to men. If I manage to find a nice guy who asks me out and isn't scared away by JD's over protectiveness then he either turns out to be exceedingly boring or a spineless wimp but then I come here to visit JD and I end up meeting the most charming man. That's Ezra you know. He's not like any of the other men I've ever met. He treats me like a lady but not like a subordinate. He's smart and funny. Ok I admit the reason I was first attracted to him was a little more superficial. Don't you think he's one of the most handsome men you've ever seen? He has the sweetest smile and that accent of his makes my knees weak. Do you think I'm being silly? Maybe he doesn't feel the same way about me at all. Maybe he just thinks of me as a friend. I know I think far too much," she sighed as she gave Chaucer an affectionate pat.

"My dear lady do you always talk to horses?" smirked Ezra as he came into the stale. Izzy jumped slightly at his sudden appearance and started to blush not being sure how much he had overheard.

"I'm beginning to see what you meant by his amazing conversational skills."

"I do apologize for my tardiness. I was briefly delayed on my way over here."

"Oh that's ok. My calendar isn't exactly full if you know what I mean."

'"Well I have something that might be able to fill that void."

"What's that?" asked Izzy cursorily.

"Have you ever participated in the dramatic arts?"

"Acting? Well when I was little I would put on little shows for the neighbors. Why?"

"I believe that I've taught you enough about poker for this scheme to be lucrative."

"What scheme? Ezra what are you talking about?"

"Yes this will be perfect," smiled Ezra as he mentally went over the plan.

"Ezra!" yelled Izzy impatiently.

"When I was in town today I observed two businessmen arriving with the stage couch. From their appearance I deducted that they are from the metropolis. Such people tend to have a few characteristics in common. Specifically they have an abundant amount of money, a craving for adventure and absolutely no intelligence for gambling. The perfect mark."

"You mean you want me to help you with a con?" smiled Izzy excited.

"It won't be anything fancy or complicated keeping in mind that this is your first experience but I believe if we both combine our god given talents we'll be able to make this venture very profitable indeed."

"I'm in. Just tell me what to do and what to say."

"First we shall need to acquire some objects to complete the image we are seeking to present."

"Then let’s go," said Izzy happily as she took Ezra's arm and they headed out.

It was later that night when Vin, Buck and Josiah headed over to the sheriff's office to check up on JD. When they got there they found him sitting at his desk sullenly pushing around a pile of papers.

"Hey pard, how ya doing?" ginned Buck as he sat down in another chair.

"I went to talk with Izzy this morning and then we had lunch together. I thought we had everything straightened out and then when I went to find her this afternoon she had disappeared and so had Ezra."

"Look JD I really think you're making a bigger deal out of this then it really is," said Josiah. "Ok so Ezra isn't your first choice as a companion for your sister but in a few days she'll be gone and no damage will have been done."

"You really think I'm just overreacting?"

"Yeah, I do."

"Why don't we stop by the hotel and see if she's come back," suggested Vin.

"Yeah, we could have dinner together," added Buck. "The last one was cut a little short."

"That's a good idea," agreed JD as he started to get up. Just then the door flew open and Izzy rushed in.

"JD, JD you'll never guess what happened," she gasped out of breath.

"Izzy," gasped JD in shock. "What are you wearing? You look like a whore." It took him a second to recover and then he started to look wildly around the room for something to cover his sister up with.

"Buck give her your jacket," instructed Vin seeing JD's distress. "Buck your jacket," Vin repeated louder when Buck continued to stand there smiling at Izzy.

"Huh? Oh yeah sure," said Buck as he came back to his senses. "Here you go Miss Isabelle. Let me help you on with that." Buck gave her his most charming smile as he took off his jacket and took his time putting it on her.

"Why thank you Mr. Wilmington," Izzy said returning his smile.

"Izzy have you lost your mind?" yelled JD. "What would posses you to dress like that? Only whores dress like that."

"I know that's the point. You see Ezra came up with this idea to get some money…"

"Making a big deal out of nothing?" JD yelled as he turned to Josiah. "You call this no big deal? He's turned my sweet innocent sister into a whore."

"JD will you stop yelling and listen to me for a minute," demanded Izzy. "It's not at all what you're thinking."

"What other possible explanation is there?"

"JD sit down and breathe," instructed Vin as he took JD by the arm and guided him to his chair. "I'm sure once Miss Isabelle explains everything will make sense."

"Thank you Mr. Tanner." Izzy smiled. "I was just so excited I wanted to come over and tell you the good news right away. Ezra saw these two businessmen arrive in town and he thought they would be an easy target so he set up a con. We were both in the saloon when the men arrived. Ezra was sitting at a table and I was at the bar. I was dressed up like this because I was supposed to act like a working girl. So when the men sat down at a table with their drinks I went over and started flirting with them big time. We started talking and eventually I lead the conversation to Ezra and I mentioned what a horrible gambler he is and how he's been losing all night. Then of course they think Ezra's an easy mark and they challenge him to game. It only took half an hour before Ezra had all their money. Oh you should have seen it. It was beautiful. The men were extremely upset but they left without any incident. Then afterwards Ezra gave me my share of the winnings," Izzy finished excitedly as she reached into her cleavage and pulled out a wad of money. She held it out proudly to show the men.

"He made you dress up like a whore so that he could con some people out of money," repeated JD looking stunned.

"He didn't make me do anything. It was fun."

"If you'll excuse us," said Vin as he and the others turned and left. When they got outside they wordlessly went to find Ezra.

"That's it. You're going back home tomorrow," announced JD.

"I certainly am not," scowled Izzy. "I like it here and I'm staying."

"No you're not."

"I am too. You can't tell me what to do."

"Maybe not but Ma can."

"You promised you won't tell."

"Well you've given me no choice. Izzy once you get your mind straightened out you'll realize I'm doing this for your own good."

"You won't be happy till I'm in a nunnery will you?"

"Why don't you go back to the hotel now and start packing. If you leave tomorrow I promise I won't tell Ma what you were really up to."

"Thanks a lot, that's very generous of you," yelled Izzy balling up her hands in anger.

"Izzy…"

"Shut up JD, just shut up," she snapped as she turned and left slamming the door behind her.

JD stood in the middle of the room for a second before he returned to his seat. With a sigh he hunched over his desk with his head in his hands.

Meanwhile Vin, Buck and Josiah had headed over to the saloon to see if Ezra was there. When they got there the bartender informed them that he had left about five minutes before. Guessing that he had turned in for the night they went over to his place. As Buck slammed his fist against the door they could hear movement in the room. A second later the door inched open and Ezra peered out. Seeing that it was his friends he opened the door the rest of the way and returned his gun to its holster.

"May I help you gentlemen?" asked Ezra slightly annoyed at being disturbed.

Vin grabbed Ezra by the collar of his shirt and dragged him from the room.

"Mr. Tanner you will remove your hands from my person and explain what it is you are attempting to do," demanded Ezra.

Vin ignored the comment and shoved Ezra down the stairs. Buck was standing at the bottom and grabbed him. Vin and Josiah coming down the stair joined Buck in 'escorting' Ezra down the street. They came to a stop just outside the saloon.

"I hope you gentleman have a good justification for this insanity," stated Ezra as Buck released his grip on him.

"What you did this evening went too far," said Josiah coldly.

"If you good sir are referring to the little enterprising that took place this evening I assure you that I have scammed much more from more intelligent a man."

"We're referring to the way you used Miss Isabelle in your little con," said Buck just as angry as Josiah.

"I assure you that Miss Dunne was quite agreeable to the little enterprise and was well rewarded for her services."

The voices of the four men were getting louder and it had drawn the attention of Chris and Nathan who had just come back to town and were heading their way from the stables.

"Evening Chris, Nathan," said Buck as the two men approached.

"Is there a problem inside?" asked Chris trying to figure out why four of town's regulators were standing just outside the saloon.

"Unfortunately the problem is right in front of us," said Vin motioning his head towards Ezra. "Mr. Standish took it upon himself to include Miss Isabelle in his con this evening which entailed the poor girl to dress and act like a common whore."

"You did what?" gasped Nathan not believing what he had heard at first.

"You better tell me they're mistaken," growled Chris as he moved closer to Ezra.

"You gentlemen are over reacting," sighed Ezra. "I have executed this particular con on several occasions and each time it went according to plan. Admittedly I usually employ the services of an authentic courtesan but considering how quickly Miss Dunne assimilated what I taught her I thought she was ready. Indeed she performed her task exceedingly well."

"Do you have any idea how much danger you placed that girl in?" yelled Chris.

"I was watching her the entire time. She was never in any danger and if I thought she might be harmed I never would have included her."

"But what it something had happened? Something out of your control?" demanded Vin.

"Nothing of that nature occurred so there is no purpose in discussing it."

"You really don't see anything wrong with what you've done do you?" asked Nathan amazed.

"Perhaps you gentleman can explain to me what I did that was so appalling."

"You know that for whatever absurd reason I don't understand Miss Isabelle looks up to you. You saw how she felt about you and you used that to manipulate her. That's immoral and disgusting," explained Vin.

"While it is very noble of you to stand up for Miss Dunne's honor you are mistaken in your evaluation of the situation. In fact it was Miss Dunne who asked me to enlighten her in the aspects of gambling. I never manipulated her in any way. I simply responded to her interest."

"No you used her, you degraded her so that you could get what you wanted. I don't know how you can live with yourself," scowled Nathan as he turned and walked away.

Josiah shook his head and followed after him.

"You better just back off because if you hurt that girl you'll have the six of us to answer to," said Buck. With that he, Chris and Vin headed into the saloon. Ezra stared after them for a second before he straightened his shirt and went back to his room.

The next morning Buck was walking towards the saloon to met Josiah, Chris and Vin when he saw Izzy sitting outside the general store with her suitcase.

"Good morning Miss Isabelle." He smiled warmly as he approached her.

"Good morning Mr. Wilmington. Please sit down." Izzy smiled as she patted the spot next to her.

"What's a pretty little thing like you doing sitting outside all by yourself?"

"I'm leaving."

"Leaving?" frowned Buck genuinely upset. "I know things have been a little rough Miss Isabelle…"

"It's better this way really and please call me Izzy."

"Alright and you call me Buck. So when are you leaving?"

"As soon as the stage coach gets here. Oh before I forget I have your coat here to return to you," Izzy remembered as she took the coat off of her suitcase and handed it to him.

"Thank you for letting me use it."

"Like I said when you first got here if you ever need anything just ask me."

"Well there is something you could do for me if you don't mind."

"I would be my pleasure."

"Could you say good bye to the others for me. I don't have time to see them all before the coach comes and they've been so nice to me…"

"Not a problem," assured Buck. Just then the stage couch arrived. "Here let me help you with that," he said as he grabbed her suitcase.

"I'm glad I had the chance to met you Buck. I only wish I could have stayed longer. I think we would have been good friends." Izzy then surprised him by throwing her arms around him in a sudden hug.

"I wish you could have stayed longer too," sighed Buck regretfully.

"I don't mean to be a bother but could you do me one last favor?"

"Of course," nodded Buck as he helped her up into the coach.

"Can you give this to Ezra for me?" she asked holding out an envelope.

"I sure will," smiled Buck taking it. "Have a safe trip."

"Good bye." Izzy waved as the couch started to leave. Tucking the letter into his pocket Buck continued to the saloon. As he walked through the doors he saw that Vin, Chris and Josiah had already arrived.

"Hey," he said as he joined them at the table.

"What's wrong?" asked Vin noticing the disappointed look on Buck's face.

"I passed JD's sister on the way here. She left on the coach that just went out."

"Went back home?" mused Chris. "Well it's probably for the best."

"I guess so," muttered Buck. "But damn, she sure was a pretty thing," the other men laughed knowing from experience that it won't take Buck long to forget about Izzy and start courting another girl.

"It's too bad about the Ezra thing," added Vin. "She seemed like a good person. It would have been fun to have her around awhile."

"Well at least we know she's safe now," said Chris.

"Amen to that," chimed in Josiah.

"Morning fellas," called JD as he came over and sat down.

"What have you got there?' asked Vin noticing that JD was carrying a couple pieces of paper.

"New wanted posters," answer JD spreading them out on the table. "Two murders just escaped from the Sweetwater prison. The sheriff there thinks they may be headed this way."

"Murders huh?" said Chris picking one up.

"Yep that one's Robert 'Scar' Higgins wanted for the murder of an entire family. The other ones James 'Barbwire' Cooper, he's reported to have killed at least twenty people. He likes to strangle his victims with barbwire which is how he got his nickname."

"Charming guys," whistled Buck.

"Anyway I was just on my way to put this up but I thought I'd drop by the hotel and see Izzy first," explained JD.

"You mean she didn't tell you?" asked Buck surprised.

"Tell me what?" asked JD looking alarmed.

"I saw her on the way over. She got on one of the coach's and went back home."

"She did?" JD echoed surprised.

"I'm surprised she didn't tell you," frowned Josiah.

"Last night after you guys left we had a talk and I told her to go home. I'm glad she listened but I…Well it was nice to see her." JD smiled fondly as he thought of his sister. Part of him was glad that she had actually listened and for once did what he said. The other part was sad that she had left and that they had spent most of her time there fighting.

"Wow, I'm glad I came here first but I have to go put these up. I'll see you later," he said as he got up and headed out. Just as he was approaching the doors they opened and Ezra walked in. The two men glared at each other as they passed but didn't say a word.

"Ezra," Buck called when he saw that Ezra was going to sit at another table. "Come here I got to tell you something."

"What deplorable defects in my character would you like to discuss today," sighed Ezra as he came over.

"That would take more time then any of us have," grinned Josiah.

"I just wanted to give you this. It's from Izzy," explained Buck when he had stopped laughing. Ezra took the letter giving Buck a questioning look. Why would Izzy give Buck a letter to give to him?

"She left this morning," Buck answered the unasked question. "She went back home."

"She didn't inform me that she planning on departing."

"She didn't tell anyone," shrugged Chris. "I guess she finally came to her senses last night."

"Look at it this way Ezra, now you're free to move on to your next con," said Vin flatly.

Wordlessly Ezra turned and walked out of the saloon holding the letter tightly.

"Do you think he's learned anything from this?" asked Chris.

"No by this time next week he'll have forgotten all about her," decided Vin shaking his head. While the others started talking Josiah remained quiet looking at where Ezra had left. He wasn't sure but he had thought for a second he had seen a look of genuine hurt in Ezra's eyes.

PAGE 2

web hosting domain names photo album

Life's Little Stories

by Luci Williams

When Ezra got back to his room he slammed the door behind him and sat heavily on the bed. He scowled as he turned the unopened letter over in his hands. He was confused and it wasn't often that something managed to confuse Ezra. When Buck had given him the letter and told him about Izzy's leaving he felt like he had been hit in the stomach. A lot of people had walked out on Ezra in the past and it had never bothered him so why was this time different? Because he decided after thinking for a minute Izzy and he had become friends. No it was more then that. Ezra almost dropped the letter when the truth hit him. Somehow with out his planning he had fallen in love with Izzy and now she was gone. Ezra knew he shouldn't be surprised at her sudden departure after all what wer the chances that a lady such as herself could ever love a worthless con like him.

Crumpling the letter up into a ball Ezra threw it across the room and collapsed fully onto the bed. He lay there until he got sick of staring at the ceiling and his head felt it was going to explode from all the thoughts running around in it. Getting up he headed to the stable and saddled up Chaucer. He didn't really know where he was going and he didn't care. Spurring Chaucer he quickly headed out of town.

It wasn't until nighttime that Ezra got back into town. He had been riding aimlessly all day trying to clear his head but he still was as confused as when he had left. Not being in the mood to see any of the other regulators he returned to his room. Taking off his boots he sat back down on the bed again. As he looked around the room he noticed the crumpled letter sitting on the floor where he had thrown it. For a second he considered just throwing it out but then slowly he got up and retrieved it. Bringing it back to the bed he started to carefully smooth it out and before he knew it he was opening it. Biting his lip he started to read.

Dear Ezra,

I realize that my leaving is sudden and I'm sorry I couldn't tell you this in person but I was afraid when I saw you I would lose

all my resolve. JD's my big brother and I love him dearly. I just couldn't stay in town with him being so mad at me. I still think he's wrong but I was afraid if I stayed the fighting would only get worse and I might en up losing him forever. I wanted you to know from the first moment I saw you I knew that you were someone special. I really had a good time the last couple of days being with you. You make me feel happier and more alive then I've ever felt. I'm getting off the couch at the next town. I'll be staying there for the next couple days. I would love it if you would come an see me but I'll understand if you don’t.

Love Izzy.

Ezra sat there stunned when he reached the end of the letter. She was in the next town. She hadn't left him after all. Suddenly he found himself smiling, as Buck and Chris would have put it, like a lovesick calf. Quickly calculating how long it would take him to ride there he started to put his boots back on. He was about to leave when he realized that after riding all day that Chaucer would need time to rest. Ezra knew the dangers of riding an unrested horse. Knowing that it would be sunrise before Chaucer was fit to ride again Ezra got everything prepared for the morning before he got into bed and tried to get some rest.

The next morning Izzy had the hotel bring her breakfast up to her room and she ate sitting in front of her window. As she watched the townspeople and coaches moving around below her she let her mind wander. She had decided that she would take the Friday coach out if Ezra didn't come. She had even bought her ticket so that she wouldn't changer her mind. It was Wednesday already and there was still no sign of him. Maybe she had been silly believing that he felt the same way she did. After all if he really loved her why would he wait this long before coming to get her. Izzy smiled as she remembered the first time she had seen him in the stable talking to Chaucer. Even then there was something about him. Something she couldn't quite describe.

Realizing that if she stayed in her room she was going to drive herself crazy Izzy got dressed and headed out. She started on the main street exploring all the stores and shops but it was a small town and there wasn't that much to look at. Sitting down on a bench outside one of the shops Izzy tried to decide what to do next. Before she knew it her mind had gone back to Ezra. Closing her eyes she imagined the way he walked, the way his hands moved when he dealt cards, how wonderfully kissable his lips looked. So this is what it feels like to be in love she mused. That last thought made her sit up and opened her eyes. Love? Was she in love with Ezra? She wanted to be with him, spend the rest of her life with him, know his deepest thought and desires. Yep she was in love. With that realization she suddenly knew somewhere deep inside her that Ezra was going to come. It could still be awhile before he came and Izzy needed something to distract her. Glancing around she saw the saloon across the street. She could always put those poker skills Ezra had thought her to practice. Izzy quickly checked her purse and confirmed that she had enough money and could afford to lose a little but it was all in large bills so she would have to stop by the bank first. Getting up she headed to the bank which was only a few stores over.

"Good morning Miss may I help you?" the clerk asked as she came up to the counter.

"Good morning," smiled Izzy. She was the only customer in the bank. "I'd like to have this broken up into smaller bills please."

"Of course Miss," nodded the clerk as he took the money and went into the back. He returned a moment later and gave her the change. "Is there anything…" he started to ask but was interrupted by a crash as the doors were thrown open and two men came barging in.

"Anybody moves and I'll blow a hole in them," the first man yelled as they drew their guns.

Izzy and the clerk immediately put their hands up. "Who else is in here?"

"Just the manager," stammered the clerk. "He's in his office."

"Where?"

"Through that door." The clerk motioned nervously. Nodding the first robber went through the door. A second later he came back pushing the manager in front of him.

"Lets not make this any harder then it has to be. Where do you keep the money?"

"In the back room," answered the manager giving no resistance.

"You come with me and fill this bag with money. My partner will watch these two," ordered the first robber shoving the manger towards the back room. "If they try anything shot them," he said to his partner as they went through the door. The second gun man readied himself in case anything happened but both Izzy and the clerk knew better then to try something foolish. It seemed to take forever but soon the first robber returned holding the full bag.

"Should we tie them up?" asked the second one.

"Na, we ain't got time. Just leave 'em."

"But they're going to go straight to the sheriff as soon as we leave. We won't get much of a head start."

"All right then we'll take a little insurance." He smiled coldly as he grabbed Izzy by the shoulder and pulled her with him. "You tell the sheriff that if he tries to follow us I'm going to put a hole in the back of this pretty little girl's head." Giving them one last threatening glare the robbers left. The clerk and the manger stood in shock silence for a minute before either one of them moved.

"What should we do?" whispered the clerk.

"You go find the sheriff. I'm going to have a drink," replied the manager as he returned to his office.

"Right. Sheriff," the clerk mutter to himself still in shell shock. Giving the room one last confused look he grabbed his hat and left.

It wasn't till almost noon that Ezra arrived in town. He waited to leave till he was sure that none of the other regulators would see him. He didn't have time to argue with any of them and he didn't want to be followed. He had briefly considered leaving a note but in the end he couldn't be bothered. Ezra dismounted and tied Chaucer to the hitching post. Looking around the small town he quickly spotted the hotel and went over.

"Excuse me, would you have a record of a Miss Dunne residing here?" asked Ezra as he approached the front desk.

"Huh?" frowned the man behind the desk with a blank look.

"What room is Miss Dunne in?" repeated Ezra with an exasperated sigh.

"Oh." The employee happily nodded at understanding that time. "Miss Dunne is in room 108," he reported after having consulted his book. "But there's no use in going up," he added boredly as Ezra turned to go up the stairs.

"Would you care to enlighten me as to why proceeding would be futile?" asked Ezra when the man didn't say anything else. He just looked at Ezra with a confused look. "Why not?" Ezra practically yelled ready to throttle the man.

"She isn't in her room. She went out this morning and she hasn't returned yet."

"Do you know where she went?" Ezra asked keeping it simple so that he wouldn't have to repeat himself.

"Nope, she didn't say but this isn't a big place. She can't be that hard to find. Is there anything else I can help you with?"

"No, Your assistance has been the most abominable and abhorrent that I have ever encountered."

"Why thank you. Come again real soon." He smiled and waved as Ezra stormed out of the door. As Ezra emerged on the street he forced himself to calm down. He knew he was just anxious to see Izzy and after all it wasn't that man's fault that he was a simpleton. He quickly looked in the few shops that were along the main street but Izzy wasn't there either. Coming out of the last shop Ezra smiled as he saw the saloon. If he were looking for any other lady he never even would have considered looking there but this was Izzy. As he entered and his eyes adjusted to the dim light he searched the room. Seeing that she wasn't there either Ezra leaned heavily against the bar with a scowl. The small man sitting on the next stool jumped in surprise.

"I've had a rough day," he explained as Ezra gave him a questioning look. "My names Earnest Miller. I work at the bank as a clerk," he continued to talk despite the fact that Ezra obviously wasn't the least bit interested. "Mother suggested I take up banking because I don't have very good nerves. I mean how stressful can handling money be I thought. Well I'll tell you it's a lot harder then it looks my friend."

"I am not your friend," interrupted Ezra only half listening.

"Well take today for example. Everything was going normal. A young lady came in asking for change and the next thing I know there were bullets flying everywhere. These two men, big men must have been at least six feet the both of them, start yelling 'give me your money or you're all dead'. I can't tell you how relieved I was when they left. Of course I feel bad about them taking that girl as hostage but there was nothing I could do to stop them…and all before lunch. Can you believe that?"

"Girl? Did you say a girl?"

"Oh yes," Earnest said pleased to have an audience. "She…" he didn't get any further before Ezra had grabbed him roughly by the collar and pushed him up against the wall. The other patrons of the saloon looked up for a second but quickly lost interest.

"What did this girl look like?" demanded Ezra. All Earnest managed to get out was a gurgle as he started to lose his air supple. As his face started to turn bright red Ezra released his grip slightly.

"I don't know she looked like…a girl."

"I'm afraid you're going to have to be just a little bit more specific," growled Ezra as he started to tighten his grip.

"She was pretty, real pretty," Earnest said as he desperately tried to remember. "A small little thing, long brown curls and blue…yeah blue eyes. I hadn't seen her in town before. I think was new or maybe just passing through."

"In which direction did they proceed after they departed?"

"I don't know. By the time I got outside they were gone. I went and got the sheriff, maybe he knows more."

"Where would I locate the sheriff?"

"He should be in his office. Turn left and it's at the end of the street," Earnest said weakly as he pointed towards the door. Without a word Ezra dropped him and left. Earnest sunk to the floor holding his throat and gasping for breath. Quickly walking down the sidewalk it didn't take Ezra long to find the sheriff's office.

"I demand to speak with the sheriff," announced Ezra as he pushed the door open and marched in.

"I'm the sheriff," the man at the desk said as he stood up. "Sheriff David Coltrain. Is there a problem?"

"I'm here in regards to the bank robbery that was perpetrated this morning…"

"Oh if you're here to volunteer for the posse it's too late. I already sent a bunch of men out to look but they came back empty handed."

"No, that's not why I'm here. I require additional information on the robbery…"

"I don't think I've seen you before. You're not from around these parts are you?"

"No, my name is Ezra Standish. I'm from Four Corners…"

"Four Corners. You gentlemen got here incredibly fast. I just sent my deputy over there to inform your sheriff a couple hours ago. Where are the other regulators?"

"I didn't receive your message. I arrived here about half an hour ago in perusal of an acquaintance. Her name is Isabelle Dunne and I believe that she was the young lady that was taken hostage. I would greatly appreciate any information that you can yield."

"Not much is known I'm afraid. We were lucky though that the criminals weren't wearing disguises and we've been able to identify them from the bank clerk and manager's description. The two men in question are Robert 'Scar' Higgins and James 'Barbwire' Cooper. They recently escaped from prison. Unfortunately nobody saw which direction they left in. I organized a posse and we tried to track them down but with no luck Also I didn't want to risk an unorganized attack after the robbers' threat which is why I sent my deputy over to Four Corners. I've heard a lot of good things about you regulators and I thought if anyone can handle this it would be you guys."

"Threat? What threat did these hellions make?" asked Ezra tensely.

"They said that if anyone tried to follow them that they would kill the girl. Hey were are you going?" the sheriff asked confused as Ezra suddenly turned and started out of the room. Ezra ignored the question and kept walking. As if in a trance he walked back to the hotel and up to the room Izzy had rented. The door was locked but it only took one good kick to get it open. Walking in Ezra stopped to look around. It was a fair size room with a double bed, a dresser and window with a seat. Izzy's suitcase was lying on the floor next to the bed. Going over Ezra gently lifted the lid and looked inside. There was a nightdress and some clothes, a hairbrush and other small things. Ezra stopped when he saw the piece of paper at the very bottom of the case. Slowly picking it up and turning it over he went to sit on the bed. It was the picture he and Izzy had got taken.

They had been at the stable talking when the conversation had turned towards photography. Izzy mentioned that she had never had her picture taken before so Ezra had taken her down to the town photographer. When they had got their she had insisted that he be in the photo to. Gazing down at the photo Ezra remembered that night. He had his arm around Izzy and they were both smiling. Ezra felt something inside him go cold as he realized that the picture may be all he had left of Izzy. His mind was screaming to get Chaucer and go after her, find her, save her but he knew he would have a better chance if he waited for the other regulators to arrive. He would need Vin's tracking abilities to follow their path and the extra firepower. Lying back on the bed he continued to stare at the picture until he feel asleep.

Meanwhile back in Four Corners all the regulators except Buck, who was out on patrol, were in the saloon sitting around a table.

"Have any of you seen Ezra?' frowned Josiah. Usually at by this time Ezra would have started up a poker game and would be cheating whoever was passing through town that day.

"I haven't seen him since Miss Isabelle left," replied Nathan shaking his head.

"Don't you think it's odd that he just disappeared?" mused Vin as he realized how long it had been since he had seen Ezra.

"He can stay gone for all I care," muttered JD.

"Well he better be back soon," said Chris flatly. "I told him last time if he ran again he was good as dead and I meant it."

"Hey fellas," called Buck as he came in followed by a smaller man. "That's Sheriff Dunne," Buck continued after the others had said their greetings.

"Is there something wrong?" asked JD looking up.

"Yes sir. I'm Deputy Roger Straight from Sleepy Hollow. I was sent to find Sheriff Dunne and the regulators who work here."

"Well you found us. What can we do for you?" asked Chris.

"Our bank was just robbed this afternoon by two escaped convicts. You probably got the notices about them. Fellows by the names of Higgins and Cooper?"

"Yeah, I got the wanted sheets yesterday morning," confirmed JD.

"That's a hell of a long way to ride just to get help tracking down some bank robbers," frowned Buck sitting down.

"Normally the sheriff wouldn’t have sent me but we're a new settlement and we don't have much law enforcement yet. When the robbers left they took a hostage with them. A young lady."

"Ah hell," muttered Chris rubbing his eyes.

"The sheriff thought you might help," Deputy Straight finished.

"Oh course we'll help," said Vin getting up. "Come on it's a long ride we should head out now so we don't lose anymore time."

"What about Ezra?' asked Nathan as the other men got up.

"We don't have time to find him," stated Chris firmly. Seeing that the decision had been made the others headed towards their horses.

It wasn't until about sunrise that the regulators and Deputy arrived at Sleepy Hollow. After taking the regulators to the sheriff's office Straight went to get Coltrain.

"So how much of a lead do you figure they have?" asked Buck as they made themselves comfortable.

"They been gone since noon yesterday but they probably stopped to make camp for the night and having that girl is going to slow them down some," answered Vin as he weighed the factors. "They also would have been in a hurry so they probably didn't take the time to cover their tracks. If we move fast we should be able to catch up with them."

"You're assuming that they still have the girl," noted Chris.

"What do you mean? Why won't they still have her?" questioned JD confused.

"Like Vin said she's only going to slow them down, be another thing to worry about," answered Chris. "And you saw their sheets JD these are cold blooded murders we're dealing with."

"They wouldn't think twice about killing that girl," agreed Buck.

"Well we'll just have to find them before they do," announced Vin determined. Just then the door opened as the sheriff came in followed by the deputy.

"I'm sheriff Coltrain. I'm glad you could come," Coltrain said as he rubbed one of his eyes. He looked like he had just been woken up.

"Your deputy has given us a brief report. Is there anything else we should know before we get started?" asked Chris.

'There's not much else to tell. The banks down the street that way. I assume you'll want to start tracking from there. I have some more wanted posters if you want to remind yourself what the men look like. Oh and I've been able to identify the girl that was taken as the hostage."

"A local girl?" asked Vin as Josiah handed out the wanted posters.

"No from what I gather just a girl who was passing through and ended up at the wrong place at the wrong time. I checked the name given and she was registered at the hotel."

"What's her name?" asked Vin.

"Isabelle Dunne."

"What?" yelled JD.

"Isabelle Dunne. Do you know her sheriff?"

"Izzy, they have Izzy." JD started to hyperventilate.

"JD just calm down. We'll get her back son," assured Buck.

"But you just said they wouldn't even think twice about…"

"Vin is one of the best trackers around. We'll find her," said Josiah firmly.

"I have to go over to the bank," said Vin starting to leave.

"I'll come with you," decided Chris following him.

"We'll all come," added JD as he made to follow.

"No the more people there the more likely that the trail will be lost. Everybody else just wait here," Vin said stopping JD.

"But I'm her big brother…"

"And you'll be doing the most help if you let me do this and stay out of my way for a bit."

"Come on why don't we get something to eat. It'll be a long day," suggested Josiah.

"Why don't you go to the hotel restaurant. The food is much better and I insist you have it charged to my account."

"Well if you insist," smiled Buck.

"Come on," said Nathan as he patted JD on the shoulder. As they left Vin and Chris headed over to the bank. Arriving at the restaurant they sat down at a table.

"What can I get you gentlemen?" asked the waitress as she came over.

"Well what do you recommend darling?" smiled Buck as he leaned closer to her.

"How about the cook's special. I've never had a complaint about it."

"I'll have one of those then."

"Me too," added Josiah.

"Same here," said Nathan.

"What about you?" the waitress asked looking at JD.

"I'm not hunger," replied JD not looking up.

"He'll have one too," answered Buck cheerfully.

"Buck…" JD started to protest as the waitress left.

"It's going to be a long day you'll need some food in your belly."

"JD I'm sorry about your sister but we'll get her back," assured Nathan.

"Hey were you going?" asked Josiah as JD suddenly got up from the table.

'The sheriff said Izzy was staying here. I'm just going to go up to her room. She'll be upset if she comes back and her stuff has been stolen," JD faltered at the end trying to convince himself that she would indeed come back.

"We'll keep your breakfast for you," nodded Nathan as JD left. Going into the main part of the hotel JD quickly spotted the front desk.

"What room is Miss Dunne staying in?" he asked.

"Room 108 sir," the man reported.

"Thank you," JD said shortly as he headed up the stairs. It only took him a minute to find the room. Realizing that he didn't have a key he was going to go back down to get one when he noticed that the door was slightly ajar. Pulling out his gun JD crept forward. Nudging the door open with his foot he looked in. At first he thought the darkened room was empty but then he saw the figure lying still on the bed. Walking forward careful not to make any noise JD came up to the side of the bed. He cocked his gun and took aim.

"Hey. Hey wake up," he ordered in a loud voice. Slowly the figure woke and started to turn to face him. JD almost dropped his gun in shock when he found himself looking into Ezra's face.

"JD," muttered Ezra confused.

"You son of a bitch," yelled JD as he took aim again and fired.

"What was Miss Isabelle doing here anyway? Asked Nathan. "I thought she was going back home."

"Could have been trouble with the stage coach," shrugged Buck.

"Maybe she was following her heart," mused Josiah.

"Now what the hell is that supposed to mean?" frowned Buck. Before Josiah could answer there was the sound of a gunshot.

"It came from one of the hotel rooms," said Nathan as they all got to their feet. Moving quickly they went into the main room of the hotel and started up the stairs.

"What room do you figure it came from?" asked Josiah. A second later there was another shot.

"This way," said Buck as he followed the sound. Coming upon a half open door they barged in with their guns drawn. They were all surprised by the situation they saw before them. The bed was covered with feathers from the pillow that had exploded upon being shot. The mirror over the dresser had apparently been victim to the second bullet as the glass was shattered. Standing at the end of the bed was JD holding his gun firmly in front of him. He cocked his gun again as he took aim at Ezra who was standing against the furthest wall. Ezra's eyes would occasional flick to the night stand where he had left his gun.

"JD what the hell are you doing?" yelled Buck as he came forward and grabbed JD's gun.

"Buck you stay out of this," snapped JD trying to pull his gun back. "This doesn't involve you."

"Will you just calm down you little fool," said Buck as he managed to get the gun away from him and he pushed JD backwards onto the bed.

"Gentlemen I must admit you have remarkable timing."

"What are you doing here anyway?" demanded Buck as he approached Ezra.

"The purpose for my being here doesn't concern you."

"Ezra cut the bullshit and tell us the truth."

"I came here for a rendezvous with Izzy," sighed Ezra giving in.

"A what with my sister?" yelled JD getting up.

"It means meeting," explained Josiah as he pushed JD back down on the bed.

"You knew she was leaving. You knew and you talked her into this didn't you?" accused JD.

"On the contrary. Izzy arranged for a note to be delivered to me. In it she informed me of her intent to get off the coach her. She requested I come over and intersect with her."

"Well that would explain why she was in the bank," snarled JD. "You had her go in to get money to give to you cause that's all you ever wanted from her. You must have been awful disappointed when those robbers got to the money before you did."

"By the time I arrived the robbery had already occurred."

"Buck…Nathan…JD…Josiah" they heard Chris yell from downstairs.

"We're up here," Buck yelled back.

"Come on. Vin found the trail."

"Lets get moving," said Nathan as they started to move towards the door.

"Where do you think you're going?" demanded JD as he saw that Ezra was coming to.

"I'm assisting you in the pursuance of Izzy," Ezra replied coldly as he kept walking.

"What makes him think he can just barge in and…" JD started to sputter.

"Look we're going to need all the firepower we can get JD," said Nathan.

"Well can I at least have my gun back?" JD yelled as he followed the others down the stairs.

"Maybe a little later," replied Buck tucking it under his belt.

"The manger said there were gunshots…" Chris started to ask when he noticed that Ezra was with them. "What the hell?"

"I'll explain as we ride," said Buck as he took Chris by the shoulder and turned him around. Chris frowned but didn't object. Scowling JD walked ahead of everybody else mostly to get as far away from Ezra as he could.

"Don't worry," said Josiah as he put his hand on Ezra's shoulder. "You'll get her back real soon." Ezra looked after him surprise before he started to follow. Arriving outside the bank they all mounted up and headed out.

"Excuse me. I'm awful hungry and…" Izzy called out tentatively to the men as they sat around the fire and eating their lunch.

"Shut up," growled Scar as he stuffed another spoonful of beans into his mouth.

"What are we still doing with her?" scowled Barbwire as he looked her over. "It be a lot easier to kill her now and then dump the body."

"Maybe but I got a feeling she's gonna come in useful."

"Where you going?" asked Barbwire as Scar grabbed his shotgun and headed to where they had tied up their horses.

"Gone to get us some more food."

"Don't you think we should be moving on?"

"Na, you saw that pathetic posse the sheriff put together. Hell the bunch of them couldn't find their own asses. We don't have anything to worry about."

"I think I'll keep an eye out anyway."

"Fine you do that. Oh and Barbwire I want that girl to be alive when I come back," scar said as he headed off. Barbwire merely grunted in acknowledgment as he returned his attention to his food.

The regulators continued to ride in silence with Vin at the front. Except for Vin stopping occasionally to check out the trail they had been moving steadily since they left Sleepy Hollow.

"How close do you think we are?" asked JD as Vin got back onto his horse.

"Hard to tell. Those marks are fresh but if they been traveling at a constant pace they could be a good three, four hours ahead of us."

"Let me look at those wanted sheets one more time," frowned Nathan as he rejoined the group.

"Here you go." JD reached into his saddlebag and pulled them out.

"I think we're a lot closer then three or four hours," reported Nathan after he looked them over.

"What do you mean?" asked Chris.

"I went up the hill a little bit and I saw a guy hunting. I thought he looked familiar. It's this guy here," nathan said pointing at the picture of Scar.

"They must have figured they weren't being followed and set up camp," decided Vin.

"Well let's go then," said JD impatiently.

"Not yet. We'll wait until he's finished hunting and then we follow him back to the camp."

"But…"

"JD if we wait we have the advantage and its less likely that Izzy will get hurt."

"Ok," JD agreed reluctantly. Tying up their horses they took turns watching Scar and waiting for him to return to the camp.

Barbwire glanced up at the sun boredly. He figured from it's movement that Scar had been gone a couple hours and he was getting restless. Looking around their small camp his eyes paused when he got to Izzy. She was still were they had left her last night. Leaning up against a tree with her wrists and ankles bound. She started to squirm uncomfortably as she felt him staring at her.

"Hey what's your name honey?"

"Isabelle."

"People call me Barbwire. You know why? It's cause that's how I deal with folks I don't like. I take a nice piece of wire and I wrap it around their neck and then I start to tighten it…are you scared of me?"

"A little."

"Just a little." Barbwire smiled as he started to move closer to her.

"Maybe more then a little," Izzy admitted.

"You sure are pretty. It would be a shame if anything happened to you," he continued as he pull a small knife out of his boot and held it against her face. Closing her eyes Izzy tried to remain calm. "Look at me when I'm talking to you," Barbwire yelled angrily.

"I'm sorry," whispered Izzy as she immediately opened her eyes.

"Oh you're going to be sorry alright." He smiled as he moved the knife to her throat. He looked up sharply as he heard a horse approaching.

"Dinner is served," announced Scar as he came into the camp and threw a deer onto the ground. "What have you two been up to?"

"Not much," replied Barbwire as he snuck the knife back into his boot.

"Come on lets start getting this ready for dinner." Scar motioned him over. As the two men turned their attention to the deer Izzy felt herself relax. She was watching the men when something in the bushes caught her eye. She only saw for a split second and it was gone. Looking around she thought she saw movement in another spot.

"What the hell?" Scar frowned as he heard a gun being cocked. The two men stood up went to reach for their weapons.

"I wouldn't do that if I we're you," a voice said coldly as seven men emerged from the bush surrounding them.

"Just keep you're hands were we can see them," warned Vin as JD went over and cut the rope around Izzy's ankles.

"Hey we got her first," protested Scar. "Find your own women."

"She's not a woman she's my sister," objected JD.

"Well it looks like we're seriously outnumbered," sighed Scar looking around. "I guess there's only one thing to do." With that he quickly drew his gun out of its holster and fired. Buck grabbed his arm in pain as the bullet grazed him. The others immediately returned fire. Vin managed to get him square in the shoulder before he ducked behind cover. As the others took up their positions JD pulled Izzy out of the line of fire.

"Wait here. I'll be right back," he instructed when he had her a safe distance away. Back at the camp shots were fired for a couple minutes with no results until Scar tried to move from one cover to another. Seeing his chance Chris aimed and fired twice into his chest.

Scar feel immediately to the ground.

"He's dead," announced Nathan after he carefully crept up beside the body.

"Where did the other one go to?" asked JD as Josiah tied his bandana around Buck's arm to try and stop the flow of blood.

"He's got to be here somewhere," scowled Chris as he looked around.

"JD what did you do with Miss Isabelle?" asked Ezra looking around.

Suddenly the silence was pierced by a loud scream.

"Izzy," gasped JD just before they heard a horse retreating. "That bastard has Izzy." Without waiting for an instruction to be given the men all mounted their horses and took off in pursuit.

"There he is," yelled Josiah as he spotted the rider up ahead.

"Can you get a clear shot?" JD asked Vin who was the best marksman of the bunch.

"Not from here. I'll have to get closer or I risk shooting your sister."

"He's headed right for the river. Once he gets there he'll be cut off," Buck informed the others. Just as predicted a few minutes later they were approaching the river. Barbwire reigned in his horse but there was no where to turn and he was forced to continue going straight. As he got to the riverbank Barbwire realized that it was far too deep for the horse to cross. Seeing a small bridge crossing to the other side Barbwire dismounted dragging Izzy after him. He could cross the river and then cut the bridge down. That way the regulators wouldn't be able to follow him. Making sure that he kept Izzy between himself and the men, Barbwire was about half way across the bridge when the regulators reached the riverbank and dismounted.

"Just stay were you are or the girl gets it," Barbwire yelled as he held his gun against Izzy's temple. Immediately the seven men stopped their advance.

"Turn the girl loose and we promise you won't be hurt," JD yelled back.

"Bullshit. I let her go and I'll have seven rounds of lead in me."

"If you do not release her immediately you will discovery yourself experiencing heights of anguish that you never before thought possible," said Ezra stepping forward.

"Oh I'm not going to be the one in pain," smiled Barbwire as he turned his gun on Ezra. Seeing her chance Izzy elbowed him in the stomach with all her might. Caught by surprise Barbwire stumbled backwards to regain his footing. Before he could recover Izzy gave him a hard shove sending him closer to the edge. Trying to regain his balance Barbwire reached out and grabbed one of Izzy's arms. With her wrists still tied together Izzy couldn't hold her ground and in a spilt second they had both gone over the edge of the bridge into the water below.

"Izzy," Ezra yelled after a stunned silence. Quickly dropping his coat, gun and hat to the ground Ezra ran forward and dove into the water.

"Oh my god," gasped JD as the others ran up to the river's edge.

"Give him a minute," said Josiah as JD started to take off his jacket. Watching the water tensely for what seemed like eternity the regulators started yelling and cheering as Ezra broke the surface holding Izzy tightly in his arms. As they got closer to the edge Chris and Vin grabbed Izzy while Josiah helped Ezra out.

"Let me look at her," ordered Nathan as they placed Izzy on the ground.

"Is she alright?" asked JD desperately as Nathan kneeled over her.

"The good news is she's still breathing but she must have hit her head on something, she's unconscious," said Nathan indicating the wound on Izzy's head. "We have to get her out of these wet cloths. The water was cold and her body temperature is going to drop if we don't get her warmed up."

"Shouldn't we take her back to Sleepy Hollow?" asked JD.

"No we don't have time. We have to get her warmed up and conscious before we move her anywhere."

"Chris and me will get a fire going," said Vin.

"Good idea. JD you keep Isabelle warm while they do that. Buck I'll bandage up your arm now," nathan instructed. "Oh and Ezra you should try to keep moving to keep your body warm," he added as he took off his jacket and through it to Ezra.

"Thank you," Ezra said through tightly pressed lips as he took the jacket and wrapped it closely around himself. While Vin and Chris went into the woods to get wood, Nathan led Buck over to the horses where he had some bandages. Meanwhile JD had taken off his jacket and wrapped it around Izzy. Sitting her up he tried to keep her warm by rubbing her arms and legs.

"Come on Izzy don't leave me now," JD was whispering urgently to her. "I'm sorry I yelled. I'm not mad at you. Please wake up."

As everybody set about doing there jobs Ezra stood lost for a second. Then he slowly started to walk towards JD and Izzy. He had no idea what he was going to say or what he could do to help but he needed to be near her.

"Get the hell away from her." JD scowled as he got closer. "Haven't you already done enough? This is all your fault. If you hadn't used her that way she never would have gotten off in Sleep Hollow, she never would have been in that bank. I hope you're happy because if she dies it will be because of you."

Ezra opened his mouth to protest but seeing the look of pure hatred in JD's eyes he changed his mind. Slowly he turned and started walking away.

"He's scared and he's not thinking clearly," Josiah said quietly as he came up beside Ezra.

"Maybe he's accusations are legitimate," muttered Ezra. "I was the reason she was at Sleepy Hollow."

"That's right I forgot," nodded Josiah. "You tricked her into falling in love with you so that you could use her for your enjoyment and then when you were through you tossed her aside without so much as a second thought."

"That's a lie," protested Ezra as he gave Josiah a shove. "I never attempted to con Izzy. My feelings toward her are genuine and authentic. What you or JD or anybody else choose to believe is irrelevant. I plan to spend the rest of my life with her because I love her and nobody is going to prevent us from being together."

"Good."

"Huh?" was all Ezra could manage to say through he's shock.

"I said good. Now once that girl wakes up you go and you tell her how you feel. If I'm not mistaken she feels the same way towards you. Don't worry we'll deal with JD later," Josiah added with a smile. Slapping Ezra on the shoulder he went to help build the fire.

Just then Chris and Vin came out of the woods pushing in front of them a soaking wet and exhausted Barbwire.

"Look what we found washed up down steam," said Chris as they came to where the others were standing.

"We'll worry about him latter.

We have to get that fire going," said Nathan.

"Josiah come give me hand with the fire, I've only got one at this point," stated Buck trying to loosen everyone up.

"Vin get the rope out of my saddlebag so we can tie this bastard up," instructed Chris.

Nodding Vin went over to the horses and got the rope.

Within minutes Buck and Josiah had a large fire going. Nathan helped JD bring Izzy closer in order to get her warmed up. Ezra drew nearer to the fire also, but kept his distance from JD and Izzy by standing on the other side.

"Nathan she's still cold," said a concerned JD. "Is she going to be alright?"

"We're doing everything we can JD, it's up to Miss Isabelle to keep fighting," answered Nathan.

As the sun started to set on the group Vin went into the woods to find something to eat. Izzy still hadn't regained consciousness. Ezra never moved from his spot across the way from her. He found himself sitting there praying. All he wanted was a chance to tell Izzy how much he loved her and that he was sorry for everything that had happened. He loved her. He had never felt anything like this before. Just then Ezra got pulled back to reality when he heard his name being called.

"Ezra…Ezra" called JD.

"Yes?" said Ezra.

"Thank you. I mean for pulling my sister out of the river," said JD rather quietly. "Not that I forgive you for anything else you've done to her."

"Sheriff Dunne when are you going to realize that I have no ill-fated intentions towards your sister," started Ezra, exasperated. "As a matter of fact as soon as she regains consciousness I'm going to profess my love for her."

"Love?" gasped JD. "You don't know the meaning of love unless it has something to do with money."

"I can assure you that my emotions towards Miss Izzy are genuine, and I don't plan on letting you or anyone else stand in our way of happiness."

"Listen here Ezra if you go anywhere near my sister I'll shoot you."

"I'll be sure to have an abundant supply of pillows around for you, for that seems to be all your able to hit."

"Not another word out of the two of you," said Josiah in a rather authoritative voice.

"JD whether or not you like the idea Ezra does love your sister and if my judgment is correct she feels the same way about him."

"I can't believe you're on his side," said JD rather disgusted.

"If I may interrupt," came a voice from just outside the light of the fire. "This guy Ezra is the only thing that little whore talked about since we left town."

"No one was asking for your input," snarled JD.

"You should have heard her," Barbwire continued. "Ezra will come, Ezra will save me, Ezra will make you pay for this, Ezra's ten times the man you'll ever be, I love Ezra…"

"I said shut up," yelled JD.

"She said she loved me?" Ezra asked quietly.

"She sure did and you know true love is a hard thing to find. That's why so irked at having to kill her."

"You're all heart," Vin said flatly.

"We should get some rest," noted Nathan after they had finished eating and the sun had gone down.

"I'll take first watch," offered Chris.

"No I'll do it," said JD barely stifling a yawn.

"JD get some rest son," said Josiah firmly as he came over. "I'll keep an eye on Izzy don't worry."

"Alright," JD gave in after a second of hesitation. With that settled the regulators made themselves as comfortable as they could and drifted off to sleep.

"Ezra," whispered Josiah as soon as he was sure everyone was asleep. "Ezra."

"Yes?" Ezra whispered back as he looked up.

"Come here."

"Is something the matter?" Ezra whispered concerned as he quickly came over.

"You should be holding her not me," Josiah said as he moved to make room for Ezra.

"Josiah, I…" Ezra faltered at the end wanted to express how thankful he was but not knowing how. Josiah nodded and smiled understanding what Ezra was trying to say. As he made himself comfortable Josiah snuck over to where Ezra had been sleeping. Ezra couldn't help but smiled as he looked down at Izzy's beautiful face. He idly started to play with her hair. He stopped alarmed as she moaned and started to move.

"Ezra, Ezra help," she gasped as her eyes flew open and she weakly tried to sit up.

"Shhhh, shhhh I'm right here. You're perfectly safe," said Ezra reassuringly as Izzy relaxed and leaned against his chest.

"How did I get here? I remember being on the bridge…"

"You unexpectedly went swimming but I managed to retrieve you before any serious damage was done."

"I knew you would come for me," Izzy said with a yawn. She was so tired for the day's events that she could hardly keep her eyes open.

"Get some rest."

"Ummm ok. Ezra?"

"Yes?"

"I love you."

"I love you too," Ezra said just as Izzy fell asleep.

The next morning JD woke up early. As he groggily sat up he wondered why nobody had woken him up to take a shift during the night. Looking around he noticed the rest of the men were still asleep including Barbwire.

"Morning," called Josiah as he came back to the camp from the bushes.

"Morning," JD started to say confused. He could have sworn he had seen Josiah sitting next to Izzy. Quickly turning in her direction JD growled in anger when he saw it was in fact Ezra that Izzy was curled up against.

"How the hell did he…" JD started to mutter as he got up to break them apart.

"JD that isn't any of your concern," said Josiah as he grabbed JD by the arm.

"Of course it's my concern. She's my sister…"

"JD leave them alone," Josiah said this time more firmly.

"He's going to hurt her."

"No you're the one who's hurting her."

At the sound of the men's voice the rest of the small camp began to wake up. Slowly getting to their feet the other's started to get ready for the ride back into town.

"Good morning," Ezra smiled as Izzy woke up.

"You're really here."

"Well of course. Where else would I be?"

"I thought maybe it was just a dream. That I would wake up and you would be gone."

"No I am here and very much a reality."

"Convince me."

"And how would you purpose I do that?"

"Kiss me."

"Well far be it from me to turn down the request of a lady," smiled Ezra after he gave a quick glance around the camp. JD was nowhere in sight and the others were too busy getting ready to leave to pay them any mind. Drawing her close to him Ezra kissed her like he had been planning on since he had first read her letter. As the kiss ended they sat staring into each other's eyes. Suddenly there was the sound of an uncomfortable cough.

"Sorry to disturb you," smiled Nathan as they turned to look at him. "I just came to check up on Miss Isabelle. How are you feeling?"

"Better now," Izzy smiled as she looked at Ezra.

"Well you gave everyone a scare with that bump on your head," said Nathan checking the wound under the bandage. "It will probably be a few days before you'll be back on your feet and have your full strength back. I want you to drink some water so you can keep your strength up."

"Haven't I had enough water to last me for awhile?" sighed Izzy as Ezra brought the mug which Nathan had given him to Izzy's lips.

"Trust me it will help," laughed Nathan as he got up to rejoin the others.

"Izzy," exclaimed JD as he ran over to his sister. "Nathan just told me that you'd woke up.

How are you feeling?"

"I'm feeling better JD, but Nathan said it will be a few days before I'll be my old self."

"I'll be right here to take care of you, don't you worry. Do you know how much you scared me?"

"I am sorry JD. I never meant for any of this to happen. Can you ever forgive me?"

"Already have," said JD as he leaned in and gave his sister a kiss on the check.

"Everything's ready, lets mount up and get back to town," said Chris from atop his horse.

"Are you ready to proceed?" Ezra asked as he stood leaving Izzy half sitting half lying down on the ground.

"I think so," Izzy nodded.

"Ezra, you go get your horse and I'll bring Miss Isabelle over to you," said Josiah as he leaned over and carefully lifted Izzy off the ground.

Ezra having no objections to this went and mounted Chaucer and then carefully took Izzy into his arms when Josiah passed her to him.

"Are you situated comfortably?" asked Ezra a little concerned when Izzy winced.

Izzy snuggled close to Ezra's chest and then smiled. "I am now."

"Hey, I thought Izzy would be riding with me," protested JD when he saw whose horse his sister was on.

"Leave them be son," said Josiah riding up beside them.

"Well hell she can ride with me if you would prefer it JD," offered Buck with a grin.

"Gentlemen we must advance at a slow pace, for Miss Izzy will not be able to handle a rugged journey," said Ezra to the others as they fell into place.

"Don't worry about me, I'll be fine," said Izzy lifting her head from Ezra's chest. "Oh dear, what happened to your arm Mr. Wilmington? Are you alright?"

"Oh that's nothing," shrugged Buck. "Just a scratch."

"I hope nobody else got hurt on account of me."

"We're fine," assured Vin. "And we'll all be a lot better once we get back into town."

With that the group started out. Chris had tied Barbwire to a rope and was leading him along side his horse and because of Izzy's condition the ride was slow and long. It didn't take long for Izzy to fall asleep in Ezra's arms. He looked down at that angelic face and swore that he would never let anything happen to her again.

It was almost dusk before they arrived back in Sleepy Hollow. Chris and Vin immediately took Barbwire over to the sheriff's office and turned him in. When they were there they briefly explained what had happened and about Scar's death. As a way of thanks the sheriff offered them free room and board at the hotel as long as they were staying in town. With that settled they headed over to the hotel to get a much needed night's rest.

To JD's annoyance Ezra insisted on carrying Izzy up to her room and placing her on her bed. It only took her a moment before she fell asleep and the men went down to the restaurant to have a few drinks before they turned in. When Ezra was sure that the others had fallen asleep he snuck out of his room and positioned himself outside of Izzy's door. He wanted to be close to her in case she needed anything during the night.

The next morning everyone took their time getting up and having breakfast. When they were ready to leave JD volunteered to go up to Izzy's room and get her bag. Packing the last few things he notice a photograph lying on the night stand. Going over he picked it up and looked at it. It was Izzy and Ezra, he had his arm around her and they were both smiling. As much as JD hated to admit it he had never seen Izzy look so happy. As he returned downstairs he found that the other riders had mounted up and were ready to go. Izzy was on Ezra's horse again but JD found he didn't have energy to object and he didn't say anything. Once he was ready they headed back to Four Corners.

Once back in Four Corners, Ezra saw Izzy comfortably to her bed and then ordered her some food. They spent the afternoon together talking like old friends. When Nathan stopped in latter that afternoon he instructed Izzy to get some sleep. With a sullen heart Ezra left Izzy to get some sleep. As he left the Hotel he wasn't sure where he was going. Before he knew it he found himself standing outside the Sheriff's office. With a slight shake of his head, for he knew he was walking right into trouble, Ezra opened the door and headed in.

"Good afternoon, Sheriff Dunne," replied Ezra as he closed the door and turned to JD who was sitting at his desk.

"Is everything alright with Izzy?" asked JD a little panic stricken.

"Nathan instructed her to rest for a spell," said Ezra reassuring JD. "JD I do believe that you and I need to discuss the situation at hand concerning your sister and myself."

"Listen Ezra, before you say anything else I have to say something," started JD. "When I was packing Izzy's things at the Hotel back in Sleepy Hollow I found this."

JD held out the photograph of Izzy and Ezra for Ezra to see. He took it and looked at it.

"That's the happiest that I've seen my sister since our papa died and then my leaving. I've always felt that I had to protect her and well I guess I never considered Izzy growing up and making her own decisions. Ezra I can tell that you really love my sister and that she feels the same about you. I won't stand in the way of her and your happiness."

"Sheriff Dunne your sister is extremely lucky to have someone like you looking out for her benefit. I will be frank with you, I do love your sister immensely and I will do right by her, that I promise you."

"Well just remember that if you hurt her that you'll have me to deal with," said JD trying to be serious. "That is if Buck ever gives me back my gun!"

Both men started to laugh. Ezra took a seat and spent most of the late afternoon and early evening talking with JD. The two men became better aquainted and Ezra got a chance to learn more about the antics of his lovely Miss Izzy.

Izzy woke with the sound of the birds chirping outside her window at the Hotel. She couldn't believe that she had slept right through the entire night. She was also a little disappointed not to see Ezra sitting in the chair at the side of her bed. Getting out of bed, Izzy decided that she wasn't spending another day in that room. She got dressed and was just putting on her boots when there was a knock on her door.

"Come in," said Izzy.

"Hey sis, thought you might like some company" replied JD coming into Izzy's room. "Are you planning on going somewhere?" indicated JD towards Izzy's undone boots on her feet.

"I can’t stand the thought of spending another day in this room JD. Please don't make me because you know that I'll just wait till your gone and..."

"It's alright Izzy. I'm not going to make you stay in here. Actually I was coming to get you," said JD as he leaned over and started tying Izzy's boots.

"Where are we going?"

"It's a secret."

"JD, you better not be trying to put me on the stage coach and send me home because I love Ezra and your not going to stop me," declared Izzy thinking she had her brother figured out.

"Izzy I can assure you that I will not stop you from seeing or loving Ezra Standish. I realize now that he really loves you."

"Oh thank you JD. I mean, I love Ezra so much and I would have seen him without your approval but now knowing that you approve, well that just makes everything so much better," said an exasperated Izzy as she through her arms around JD. "I love you JD, my big brother."

"I love you too little sister."

With that JD picked up Izzy and started to head out of her room.

"JD I am capable of walking to where ever it is we're going," objected Izzy as they descended the stairs.

"I was told to make sure you didn't get away and this was the best way that I could think of to make sure that happened."

"Who doesn't want me to get away?" asked Izzy as they came out onto the boardwalk.

"I believe that I made that request of the good Sheriff."

"Ezra!" exclaimed Izzy as JD carried her toward Ezra who sat atop Chaucer in front of the Hotel.

"Has she complied to the excursion that has been planned?" asked Ezra.

"I never really asked her but I'm sure that there will be no complaints," answered JD.

With that JD lifted Izzy to Ezra's waiting arms.

"And what is this excursion that you have planned Mr. Standish?" asked Izzy snuggling into Ezra's chest.

"Unfortunately my beloved Miss Izzy, I now have you in my grasp therefore you will have to just come forth whether you agree or not," supplied Ezra as he leaned over and kissed Izzy on the forehead.

"Have fun you two" called JD as they two lovebirds headed out of town.

About two hours latter Izzy found herself lying on a blanket in the middle of a clearing in the woods. Ezra had brought a beautiful picnic lunch and once they had had there full they laid back to enjoy each other's company. Ezra had the love of his life encircled in his arms and lying back on his chest. He could never remember feeling anything so wonderful in all his life.

"What are you thinking about Ezra?" asked Izzy after a few quiet minutes.

"I was thinking about how wonderful you feel in my arms and how empty my life was till you came into it."

"Ezra I've never felt anything like this that I feel right now. I don't ever want it to go away."

Ezra turned Izzy around in his arms so that she was looking directly into his face.

"I feel in love with that angelic face, and beautiful smile the minute I caught you listening to me in the stable. When I thought that I'd lost you I can't describe that emptiness that I felt. If I promise you only one thing my precious Isabelle, it is that my love for you will never be extinguished."

"Oh Ezra. I love you with all my heart."

With that Ezra took Izzy's face in his hands and brought it closer to his. When their lips met they stayed together for sometime. When they parted the two star crossed lovers who thought that they would never be allowed to be together sat in each other's embrace and watched the sun set on the horizon.

The End