Continued from Through Thick And Thin

Do the others know?"

Buck shook his head. "But Mary was there."

"I bet she was."

"She stood up for me." The woman had put herself between Buck and the townsfolk. She had guts, which had earned her Buck's respect.

Chris just nodded. Buck was aware of their mutual attraction, but he knew their personal tragedies continually complicated their relationship.

"You don't have to leave," Buck finally said. "It's not like the last time: they don't suspect you."

Chris nodded again before heading toward his cabin. On the porch, he paused and turned. "Did anyone follow you? Will they come looking?"

Buck shook his head. "Not here."

"Then we have some time?"

"Reckon so," Buck replied, as he headed toward the porch.

"Fine. We'll leave tomorrow."

Buck stepped up beside Chris, sliding an arm around his waist, pulling him close.

"Mind being a little sore in the saddle come morning?"

- End -

March 2003

Comments would be most welcome if sent to: C.V. Puerro

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Characters from "The Magnificent Seven" were used without permission and this story in no way signifies support of, or affiliation with, The Mirisch Group, MGM, Trilogy Entertainment, or CBS Worldwide, Inc. The story itself belongs to the author. This story will not be sold for any reason.