by Clara

Old West: Late 1880's
About 5 years later

Larabee walked away from the body in the street and the crowd gawking at it. He was amazed young men still wanted to try and outdraw him, and it amazed him even more that he was still able to defeat them. All he wanted when he rode into town was to see if there was a letter from Vin and maybe visit with Josiah. He'd planned on visiting the bath house and having supper at the restaurant before returning home. Damn, he thought, here comes JD.

"Hey Chris!" JD shouted. "Chris, wait up." Larabee stopped walking and waited for the deputy sheriff. "Damn, you're still as fast as ever," JD gushed. Chris frowned, and JD rushed on, "I know, I know you don't like to hear that. I was watching from the jail and saw you trying to talk him out of drawing on you. So I know it was self-defense. I tried to get over there, but Mrs. Carter was complaining about some boys getting into her garden. Finally I told her I'd look into it. You heard from Vin?"

Chris had continued to walk towards Potter's Store, with JD following him.

"I was just going to check to see if any mail has arrived, JD." The blond started up the stairs to the boardwalk and into the store.

"Good afternoon, Mr. Larabee, how are you today? It's been awhile since you've been in town." Gloria frowned, "Nasty business out there. I wish these young thugs would just leave you alone." Gloria Sanchez smiled.

Nodding in greeting, Larabee frowned, "Yeah, me too. Any mail?"

"Yes, I have three letters for you. One looks to be from Vin. How's he doing?" she answered, handing the mail to Chris.

"Thank you," Larabee said, "Last I heard he was doing okay." He put the letters into the pocket of his duster. "Can you tell me where Josiah is?"

"He's over at the church working on Sunday's sermon. Why don't you drag him away from it for a bit? I know he'd like to see you. Why, last night at supper, he said he wanted to ride out to your place and visit with you for a spell. And while you're at it why don't you have supper with us tonight?" Gloria said pleasantly.

Smiling at Gloria, he answered, "I think I'll do that. It's been some time since Josiah and I had a long talk. Thank you, Gloria. Oh, by the way, I have a list of supplies I'll be needing." Handing her his list, he left the store.

Larabee headed for the bath house, then met with Josiah. While they were sharing a drink at the saloon, JD came in and joined the two men. Later, Chris, Gloria and Josiah visited over supper. It was late when he left town and headed back to his cabin.

At the cabin, he tore into Vin's letter;

May 1st Dear Cris, This letter brings sad news. Inez died havin our baby. Our baby girl is still alive and with the help of the Spirits she'll stay that way. She's a scrapper, a real fighter

Larabee paused, 'like her papa,' he murmured to himself. He continued to read;

......and we're all hoping she'll make it. Inez's mama is here helping out with Lil Cris and Elena. She found a wet-nurse and has been a reel big help ta me and the kids. We named the young'un Inez after her mama. The spirits has blessed us with sum reel fine nabors, too. We's doin' ok, I work fer this rancher fella, ridin' all day roundin' up strays and lost calves. I never thought I'd end up punchin' cows, but I gotta make a livin fer the kids. Hell pard, looks like I'm the cowboy now. I reely miss ya Cris, and I swear I'll git back ta see ya soons I can. Your friend, Vin

Larabee put Vin's letter down, poured himself a drink and lit a cheroot. Picking up the letter from Mary, he opened it and began to read;

September 10th Dear Chris, I'm writing to inform you that your brother, Michael, and I have fallen in love. Even though I've given you reason to seek a divorce, I'm begging you not to. Our marriage vows were empty and meaningless, but for you to seek a divorce would label me a divorcee and our new child, your nephew, a bastard. I hope you can find it in your heart to give Michael and I your blessing. Steven is growing up fast and is quite enamored with the farm. He loves it here. I've sent you a tintype of him. As always, Mary

* 7 * 7 * 7 * 7 *

November 1st Dear Mary, Thank you for the tintype of Steven. You're right, he is growing up fast. I'm glad you and Michael have found happiness. I think you know that I'd never do anything to intentionally hurt either one of you. I agree our marriage vows were said without merit and as such was never consummated. You and Michael have my blessing. Should you wish to marry, I'll gladly step aside, otherwise, you may continue to live your lives. For reasons I'd rather not go into, I have always tried to keep you and Steven safe, and will continue to do so. As always, Chris

Larabee looked the letter over, and satisfied, he sealed it and set it aside. Picking up the picture of his son, he smiled sadly to himself. The boy favored Adam, although he had blond hair, where Adam's hair had been darker, like Sarah's. Frowning, he wished he could see the boy, meet him, talk to him, but he couldn't take the chance that Ella or one of her henchmen might be lurking around somewhere, waiting to pounce. No, he'd made his decision and would have to live with it.

Opening the third letter, he scanned it and found it to be from a Horse Trader over Kansas way that was interested in checking out his stock. Larabee put the letter aside to read later.

Taking another piece of paper, he started his letter to Vin;

November 1st Dear Vin, I'm sorry to hear about Inez. She was a special lady and I know she'll be missed. I wish I could be there with you, to help you through this hard time. By the date on your letter, It has already been about six months since she passed away, so hopefully things are easier for you. Please let me know if little Inez is all right. The ranch is finally starting to see a profit. I have two mares and a stallion that have good bloodlines and the four colts they've sired have done well. I've been using your piece of land, so you'll be sharing in the profit. I miss you too, Vin, and wish you could move someplace close by, but I'm sure Inez's mama would frown on that. Please come see me when you can, you are welcome anytime. Your friend, Chris

He put the letters on the table and would post them next time he was in town. He set about getting ready for bed. Other than being called out, it had been a pretty good day.

A Few Years Later: Spring 1890's

Chris was restless and feeling nervous. He'd received a letter from Vin that Inez's mama was taking the kids for the summer to Mexico City, so Vin was coming to Four Corners. The letter said he'd be arriving around the first of May, but it was already into the second week of May. The blond had been searching the horizon for days, watching for his partner to appear, but Vin still hadn't arrived. Larabee was worried that something had happened and Vin wasn't coming after all. He'd already decided, if Vin wasn't there by the end of the week, he was riding into town and sending a telegram.

A few days later, as he was fixing his supper, he heard a horse and the call that he'd been waiting to hear for years, "Vin comin' in," and Larabee tore out of the door and watched as Vin rode in, dismounted, turned and grinned at him. "Howdy cowboy," he drawled.

Chris was off the porch in two strides and grabbed Vin in a bear hug. "God," he muttered, "Oh God, I never thought I'd see you again."

Vin wrapped his arms around Chris hugging him back, saying, "I know, I know." Lips met unresisting lips. Chris had his hands in Vin's hair holding his head, while his mouth devoured and was devoured. They stood there in the yard wrapping themselves around each other, kissing, caressing, hands pressing against the other's body. Needing to breathe, they pulled inches apart, Larabee still bestowing kisses on Vin's cheeks. Vin ran his hand lovingly down the side of Chris's face.

"It's so good ta be home, cowboy, I've missed ya so much." Vin whispered to Chris.

"I know, pard, I know," Chris kissed him again, then ask, "Hey, you hungry? I was just fixing up some ham and beans for supper," the blond offered.

"I'm hungry, all right, but not fer beans," Vin gave him a cocky grin, and Chris put his arm around his partner's shoulder and led him into the house.

"Hmm," Larabee questioned, "What else could you be hungry for," he said, laughing.

Stepping into the house, Tanner looked around, "Ya added a room to the shack, Chris."

"It's a cabin and yeah, I needed a room to sleep in," he answered, grinning."

Chris moved the beans to the back of the stove, as they headed for the bedroom. On the way, they started pulling off gun belts, toeing off boots and removing clothes.

Their first love-making was fast and furious. Both men just wanted to feel the other person, wanted to know they really were together again, wanted to feel the other's body, and taste their skin.

The second time they made love that night was slow, easy, and loving. Afterwards, they lay wrapped in each other's arms, Vin's head on Chris's shoulder as the blond lazily ran his fingers up and down his lover's back.

Vin muttered, "I've really missed ya, cowboy. When Mrs. Recillos asked if she could take the kids fer the summer, it was like a sign from the Spirits that I's ta come see ya, so's we could have this time tagether."

"I'm happy you came,"Chris kissed the top of Vin's head and hugged Vin's shoulder. "Your kids doin' okay?" he asked.

"Yeah mostly, Li'l Inez is kinda sickly. I always wished Nathan was close enough ta take a look at her, but course, he ain't. A doc there in town says it's 'cause she didn't have her mama at the beginnin'. I tried ta explain we had a wet-nurse, but he said it don't matter. I thought 'bout bringin' her with me, but I don't think she'd been able ta handle the trip on a horse. I sure didn't want her ta git worse. The other kids, though, are fine. Elena thinks she's Inez's mama. She's a real big help ta me." Vin smiled as he thought of his older daughter.

"I'm sorry, Vin, that your baby is feeling poorly. Will ya be able to stay the summer, pard, or are ya gonna have to leave soon?"

"I'm here fer the summer, cowboy, 'less I git a telegram tellin' me ta come back."

As they snuggled down to sleep, Vin had his dream for the first of many times.

* 7 * 7 * 7 * 7 * As the summer flew by, Chris and Vin visited Raine and Nathan and their family at the reservation. Nathan gave Vin some medicinal herb, he thought, might help Vin's daughter. They visited with JD and Casey, meeting their children. Casey was pregnant with their fourth baby. JD had three sons and they were hoping for a girl this time. They shared supper at least once a week with Gloria and Josiah. Vin, in his quiet way, told funny stories about his and Inez's family. The two men went swimming in the pond and made love every chance they could. Vin watched Chris work the horses and helped him with the chores.

In the evening's, they'd sit on the porch, watch the sunset and Larabee would write in his diary. Life was good and both men basked in the love they shared.

One evening Chris asked Vin why he settled in Texas instead of returning to Four Corners.

Vin thought about it a few minutes, then replied, "Well, once we got ta Texas and seen the Governor, the Judge got called back ta Eagle Bend. I promised him I'd see Inez home safely and we started fer El Paso and Mexico. When we got there, her family got so riled when they seen me, Inez just told 'em we's married. I reckon I don't cotton ta lyin' but her father and brothers were all excited and wantin' ta fight me, I reckoned I'd jist go along with it. Well, they put us in the same bedroom and, well, one thing led ta another." Vin paused, looked down at his boots, feeling some shame.

"It's hard to resist temptation, Vin, when it's right there in the room with you. And Inez seemed like she'd be a passionate woman. Nothing to be ashamed of." Chris quietly assured him.

Nodding his head, Vin continued, "We's gittin' ready ta come home when she found out she was havin' a baby, so we jist went back across the border ta El Paso and seen a Justus a the Peace and got hitched. Her ma wanted us ta stay 'til the baby was born, and I didn't see anyway around it. Anyway, Inez wanted her ma there. 'Fore I even knew what had happened, we had two kids and 'nother on the way. We's living on this ranch near El Paso, but Inez an' the kids spent most a their time at her ma's."

"I have to admit, I was surprised when you wrote and said you and her were married. I knew you liked each other, but love?" Chris shook his head, "I was a little surprised."

Vin grinned, "Me 'n Inez weren't in love, cowboy. Oh, don't git me wrong, we had a powerful respect fer each other, and we both loved them kids. They's a real gift from the Spirits. But it weren't no secret 'tween us that she would have rather Buck brought her home, 'stead of me."

Larabee grinned, "Children are a gift from God, Vin. You should treasure every minute that you have with them." He tossed his cheroot to the ground, "So Inez did care about Buck. I wondered, but the way she acted around him, you'd never a known it."

"Yeah, she's real torn up when he fell fer, what was her name?"

"Louisa," Chris supplied.

"Yeah, Louisa," he paused and grinned "While Inez was carryin' Li'l Cris, I wondered sometimes if the baby was gonna be born laughin' like Buck and sportin' a big bushy mustache." Vin, still grinning, shook his head at the memory. "But when he came out, there weren't no denyin' him. He's pure Tanner."

Chris laughed along with Vin, "That would have been a funny looking baby, especially if it had been a girl." They were still chuckling at Vin's statement when Chris looked up at the starry sky, "It's getting late," he said, "why don't we go inside."

Tanner nodded, stood up and followed Larabee through the door.

* 7 * 7 * 7 * 7 *

Vin and Chris decided to take a trip around the property. It would take two days to cover the entire spread, so they planned to camp overnight on the trail. The first day they covered half of the property and Vin was impressed with what he saw. Snuggling that night before the campfire, Vin revealed his dream to Chris.

"I been havin' this same dream 'bout every night, cowboy. I reckon it's the Spirits tryin' ta tell me somethin'."

"Want to talk about it?" Chris asked him.

Vin was quiet for a few minutes, gathering his thoughts. "Well, it starts off with you and me in an open field. We's walking, but we ain't goin' nowhere. It's strange, 'cause we's tryin' ta go somewhere, but we ain't really movin'. Then this mist starts up from the ground. Like fog, maybe, and we git separated and can't find each other. I'm callin' fer you and I can hear you callin' me, but we can't find each other. Then outta the fog comes these two eagles, swooping up and soaring inta the sky. Their flyin' tagether, their wing tips touching like they's holding hands." Vin shivered, "It's strange, cowboy, but I think them two eagles is supposed ta be you and me."

Larabee frowned in thought. "Vin, you know that if you ever need me, all you have to do is send a telegram, I'll come to you right away. I'll always be there for you, you know that, don't you?"

Nodding his head, Vin said, "Yeah cowboy, I know that. But, I think this dream goes deeper than that, like it's a sign or somethin'"

Larabee sighed heavily, "I've had a similar dream, but it's you that's lost in the fog. I keep looking for ya, calling you, but I can't find you anywhere." Pausing, trying to remember, he continued. "I can't remember seeing any eagles in my dream." Pulling Vin closer to him, Chris whispered, "I love you, pard. I'm just real thankful for this time we have together. I figure you probably won't be able to come back anytime soon. I know you have to take care of your children. Have you thought about moving here with the kids? We could build you a cabin close to mine."

A sad look crossed Vin's face and he said, "Inez made me promise, when she's dyin', ta keep the kids close ta her ma and pa. I reckon she mighta figured it out 'bout us, our feelin's fer each other, 'cause she said I could come back, but she wanted me ta promise I wouldn't bring the kids ta Four Corners. I kept tellin' her she's gonna git better, but with what was prob'ly her dyin' breath, she grabbed my shirt and said promise me! I nodded and she closed her eyes and was gone."

Chris squeezed his lover's shoulder in shared pain. "Inez was a smart woman, she may have suspected us."

Shrugging, Vin said, "There ain't no way I could leave my kids in Mexico and come back here." Vin snuggled closer to Chris. "After Inez's funeral, Mrs. Recillos wanted me to leave the kids with them, but I weren't givin' up the kids and you, too. We had a little tiff and she started ta yell at me in Spanish, thinkin' I didn't know what she was sayin', 'til I answered her back in Spanish. That settled her right down."

Grinning, Chris said, "I'm sure it did. What happened then?

"Well, The fella I worked for gave his family men a cabin ta live in, so I took 'em all back ta El Paso. Mrs. Recillos came with us and stayed fer awhile. A real nice neighbor lady, Mrs. Patterson, came over and helped with the kids. After Inez's Ma left, Mrs. Patterson watched the kids whilst I worked. She had a passel of kids of her own, but her and Mrs. Wilson, another neighbor pitched in, kept the baby, cooked fer us and made sure Lil Cris and Elena did their schoolin'. It was a hard couple a years, but we got through it. Whenever I'd shoot a turkey or a deer, I always shared with the Pattersons and the Wilsons. But I couldn't give up my kids, Chris, not even fer you."

Chris's voice choked up and he kissed Vin's temple, "I wouldn't want you to, Vin. It wouldn't be right and if I forced you to make that choice you'd soon hate me for it. Your children should always come first. Maybe after they've grown up, we can visit more often, but right now they need you."

Vin nodded in agreement. "I couldn't live this close to ya and not be with ya," Vin said quietly. "I ain't sure when I can git back. It's hard gittin' away with the kids and all." But kissing his lover, Vin vowed, "I love you too, and when I can, I'll be back ta see ya."

After sharing their love, the men settled down to sleep.

* 7 * 7 * 7 * 7 *

One day in mid August, the two lovers were cleaning the barn, when they heard a rider approaching. Slinging their gun belts over their shoulders, both men stepped outside to see JD riding up to the homestead.

"Vin," JD said, as he dismounted, "I got a telegram for you from Mexico. I thought I'd just bring it to you instead of waiting for you two to come into town." Handing Vin the wire, he read it over, shook his head and handed the telegram to Chris. "Reckon I best be gittin' ready ta start home. It sez that Mrs. Recillos will be bringing the kids home by the end of the month."

Chris knew it was coming, but he felt an overwhelming sadness and resentment come over him. Vin had been his these last few months and he didn't want him to leave. Walking away, trying to get his emotions under control, Chris went into the house and poured himself a double measure of whiskey.

Vin and JD watched as he entered the house. "Did I do something wrong, Vin?" JD asked, perplexed.

"No JD, Chris and I both knew this day was comin'. We'll just have ta deal with it. Thanks fer bringin' the telegram out here. We'll be in town in a day or two. I can say my goodbyes then."

With that JD mounted his horse and left the two men alone. Vin shook his head and wandered towards the house after Larabee. Chris could be a mean drunk and Vin, being a realist, knew he wouldn't be able to return to Four Corners anytime soon. He didn't want to deal with Larabee's temper his last few days here.

Chris frowned, then tried to smile as Vin walked into the house. "Drink?" He asked holding the bottle up.

"Yeah," he grinned sadly. He put his arms around Larabee and said, "But there's other things I rather do."

Wrapping his arms around his lover, Chris buried his face in Vin's neck. "I know you have to go, but I sure don't want you to," Chris whispered to Vin, kissing him. Let's skip the drink and go to bed."

Vin grinned, "What about the barn, don't we need ta finish cleaning it?"

"Fuck the barn," Larabee smirked at him.

"No thanks, cowboy, I'd rather fuck you." And with that they headed for the bedroom.

A few days later, Vin left Four Corners, promising to return someday.

Several Years Later: 1899

Dear Chris, This letter is to introduce your nephews, John and Steven Larabee. They have finished their studies and wanted to venture out west. I suggested they stop at your ranch and make themselves known to you. John is so much like you, Chris. Out of one fracas and into another. More than one irate Pa has visited me to warn John to stay away from their daughters. Steven is more settled and enjoys the life of a gentlemen farmer, but decided to join John on this trip to keep him grounded and out of trouble. Mary and I are hoping you might help to settle John down, by talking to him. We are beside ourselves with worry and don't know what else to do. Steven has worked with me and the farm has prospered and grown into an even more successful enterprise. He is a stalwart young man and I have deeded the place to him in my will. If John so wishes, he may return to the farm and share in the work and profits, or settle out west. I worry about him, however. Billy has finished his studies at Harvard and now practices Law in Boston. As always, Your Brother Michael

As Chris read the letter, he kept glancing up at the two young man standing before him. Had it been twenty years already, he wondered. He would have known Steven anywhere. John too, for that matter, as both lads favored the Larabee clan.

"Uncle Chris, we'll be staying at the boarding house in town for awhile and we'd like to visit with you while we're here."

"That would be fine, maybe we'll have dinner one evening," Chris allowed.

"I'm also hoping to, well, maybe start a ranch and build a small house." John said. "Maybe you could point me in the right direction where some good acreage might be purchased. Steven is anxious to return to Indiana."

Steven smiled and nodded his head. "Pa will need me to help bring in the crop in a few months."

"No need to buy land, John, We've got several thousand acres here. One piece belongs to another person, but I'm sure you'll be able to find a parcel you'll like. If you two want, we'll ride the property and see if you can find a spot." Chris smiled at the grin on the boys faces.

"You mean it! You'd do that?"

"Sure, we'll ride out tomorrow, if you want."

"Sure, that would be great! Thanks a lot, Uncle Chris. Thank you!"

"Tomorrow, it is then," and he shook both young men's hands. "Be here early, around sun-up," he instructed.

Larabee frowned. Was he ever that young, that excitable? Well, the thought of Vin still excited him. It had been a long time since he had seen the tracker. They still wrote, but Vin had a family to support and he worked hard to keep a home for Cris and Elena.

Li'l Inez had died a few years ago from a cold and Vin had been devastated by the loss. Chris had made the trip to Texas to be with Vin at the time. He'd met the Tanner children and was proud of the job Vin had done in raising his kids. Cris Tanner was a chip off the old block. He was so much like Vin that Chris had been amazed. Elena looked just like her mama, but she had the Tanner eyes.

Mr. and Mrs. Recillos had insisted the children stay with them while Vin and Chris returned to the Tanner's cabin in the evening. Chris gave Vin what comfort he could, by holding him at night, while Vin grieved for his dead daughter. The time was all too short before Chris had had to return home to his ranch.

Waiting for his nephews the following morning, Chris was impatient as dawn came and went. Around mid-morning, he spied the two riders, huffed out his aggravation, but held his tongue.

"Good Morning, Uncle Chris, are you ready?" John asked.

"Of course, he's ready," Steven laughed, "I'm sorry, Uncle Chris, I tried to get him up and moving earlier."

Chris frowned, "If you're going to be ranching, you'll need to be up with the sun, Son. Let's get going."

They rode the area that Chris was willing to let go of. The section was closer to town than his homestead, and the ground wasn't as rocky, so putting in a wagon road would be a lot easier. John found a section that he felt was perfect and asked Chris what he thought.

"It is a pretty spot, John. There's plenty of trees to build a cabin. The river runs through that copse," pointing to a stand of trees, "so you'll have plenty of water. With a lot of hard work, it could be a real nice place."

"Will you help me, Uncle Chris?"

"I'm getting too old to clear land, but I'll help you any other way I can."

Steven, who had been standing by quietly, spoke up. "I'll help you build a cabin, John, before I leave. Maybe we can get a lean-to up for your horse and a corral built, but you'll need to work hard and stay with it, because I'm leaving for home in two months."

"Okay, I'm gonna do it. Where do I sign Uncle Chris?"

Larabee smiled at his nephew. "Tell you what, John, you put up your cabin and I'll help you get started. You raising horses or cattle?"

"Cattle," he said without hesitation.

"We'll get you some steers and get you started." Chris continued, "You work hard and do a good job and I'll leave the place to you in my will. Except for Tanner's grant, of course. He'll be leaving that to his son."

"It's a deal! Thanks Uncle Chris, that's great! You hear that Steven, I'll own most of this spread. Who's Tanner?" John finally asked.

"My partner, boys. He still owns a parcel of this place. Steven, are you sure you won't stay, maybe just a year, until your brother really gets settled?" Chris ventured.

"I can't, Uncle Chris, Pa needs me."

Chris wanted to shout at him, 'I'm your pa, I need to get to know you!', but knowing he couldn't, he turned away, pretending to admire the landscape, while getting his emotions under control.

That little cabin, built by his son and nephew, was the first of many homes, from that time to the present, built on that perfect spot. John surprised everyone. He worked hard and built up a very successful enterprise, not in cattle, but in raising horses.

The Year 1902:

Chris was sitting on his porch one night, enjoying a glass of whiskey and a cheroot, when he felt an overwhelming sadness come over him. Unable to shake the feeling that something had happened to Vin, he paced the floor until morning. After saddling his horse, he rode into town and sent a telegram to Texas. He shared his thoughts with Josiah over breakfast. The two men waited to hear back from Tanner's family. The wire came just before sunset. Vin had died, quietly, the night before in his sleep. Larabee mourned for his friend, his lover, his partner as he did everything else, stoically.

* 7 * 7 * 7 * 7 *

A few months later, JD raced across the landscape to Chris's cabin with his message.

"Chris!" He shouted, as he came closer to the house. "Chris, are you home?"

Larabee stepped out on the porch, "What's wrong, JD, what's going on?"

"There's a lady in town wantin' to see you. You should see it, Chris, they came in on one of them horseless carriages. Speeding through town, rilin' the horses, damn near caused a riot. Said, she came to see you."

Larabee had heard of these horseless carriages, but had never seen one and was intrigued. "She have a name, JD?" he asked.

"Oh yeah, said she was Vin's daughter, Elena. Her and her husband are going to Denver and swung through here to see you." JD dismounted and moved to the porch. "She has dark hair like Inez, but she's got Vin's blue eyes. She sure is pretty. Don't tell Casey I said that," JD finished.

Chris looked at him and smiled. Vin did have good-looking children. He imagined Cris Tanner was breaking hearts all over Texas. Shaking his head, Larabee laughed to himself, "So Elena is here? They stayin' at the hotel?"

"Yeah, she asked if you'd like to meet her and her husband for breakfast at the hotel in the morning. They wanted to come out here themselves, but I told them that that contraption wouldn't make it over the roads out here."

"Tell her I'll be there, JD. Come on in for a drink and sit a spell, before you start back to town."

JD followed Chris into the cabin, sat and shared a drink and gossip, before he left.

Larabee arrived in town early, visited the bathhouse and after changing into clean clothes headed for the hotel.

In front of the hotel sat the damnest thing he'd ever seen. 'So this is what they look like,' Chris thought as he walked around it, wondering how it moved.

Inside, Mrs. Carter, the hotel proprietress, directed him into the dining room, where Elena sat drinking coffee, at a table by herself. She saw Larabee, smiled and waved him over. Chris took a seat and ordered coffee. "You're sure a site for sore eyes, Mr. Larabee," she said. "Please excuse my husband, he'll be down in a minute."

Chris smiled at her, "You're as lovely as ever, Elena, and I'm sure it would be all right if you called me Chris. I can't believe it, you're all grown up now."

She smiled and blushed, her eyes, so like Vin's were downcast. A few minutes later a young man slipped into a chair next to Elena and squeezed her hand. She cast a shy smile at him and said, "Thank you Mr. Larab..., ahem, Chris. I'd like you to meet my husband, Samuel Carson. Sam, this is Papa's friend, Chris Larabee."

Chris nodded to the young man, who smiled back and helped himself to coffee.

"I want to tell you what happened with Papa, Chris. I started to write you a few times, but couldn't find the right words. I knew Sam and I would be headed this way soon, so I decided to wait until I saw you."

The blond braced himself and nodded.

"Sometime last year, there was an accident at the cattle chute. Cows were being herded into it and the chute broke and collapsed. A cowboy was trapped in the middle of all those cows, so Papa rode his horse into the middle of that mess and helped that man. You knew Papa had a bad back, didn't you?"

Larabee nodded that yes, he knew, just as Mrs. Carter came to the table to see what they wanted. After giving her their order, Elena continued.

"Well, in helpin' that man, he did somethin' more to hurt his back and was plagued with troubles and aches constantly. I believe Papa knew he was dying, 'cause soon after, he started workin' on makin' this box. He put it tagether and carved these pictures in the lid. He said when the time came, I was ta put his ashes into that box and bring 'em to you. You know Papa set such store in the People's way and beliefs?"

Larabee smiled, remembering Vin talking about the Kiowa and Comanche People he lived with.

"Well," she continued, "he had a friend that was a Shaman or Medicine Man over on the reservation."

"Yes, I met Grey Horse when I was there after your sister died." Chris answered.

Elena nodded, "Grey Horse performed the ritual and he put the remains of Papa in the box. I have it with me, but if you don't want it, I'll understand, of course."

Larabee almost choked on his coffee. "Yes, of course, I want them. And please, don't worry, Elena, I'll make sure their taken care of respectfully,"

She smiled, "I reckon you heard that Cris went and joined up with Teddy Roosevelt and the Rough Riders."

"Yes, your Pa mentioned it in one of his letters. I know he was concerned for his safety. How is your brother?"

"Well, Cris is back home now and married to Becky Logan. They're gonna have a young 'un in a few months. Oh, and he said to tell you to hold onta Papa's land. He's gonna try and come here to look it over. Once Becky has the baby, that is."

"I'll write Cris and let him know that he and his wife are welcome anytime." Chris smiled.

"He'll appreciate that, I know." Elena grinned back at him.

After breakfast, Sam went to retrieve the wooden box and gave it to Chris. Vin had carved two eagles, wing tips touching, taking flight. He touched it reverently, and thanked them.

As they walked out of the hotel, Chris saw Josiah and Gloria standing on the boardwalk. He called them over to meet Elena and her husband. "Gloria, Josiah, this is Vin's little girl, Elena and her husband Samuel Carson. Elena, this is Josiah Sanchez, and his wife Gloria."

Elena smiled, her charm showing through. "Papa talked very kindly 'bout you and Mrs. Sanchez. I'm so pleased ta get ta meet you."

Josiah beamed, "It's a pleasure meeting you young folks also. Vin was a special man and I was proud to call him my friend."

Gloria couldn't help herself and hugged Elena. "You look so much like your Mama. She was a special lady. Vin was a lucky man and I always said they'd make a nice couple."

Elena smiled, "Thank you," she said, hugging Gloria back.

JD walked over to where they were standing. "You're on your way, already? I was hoping you could spend a few days. I know Nathan and Raine would like to meet you."

Sam spoke up, "We'd like to stay, but my folks are expecting us in Denver. My father has a job for me and we really need to be going. But it's been real nice meetin' you folks. Come on Elena, we better get started."

Everyone watched as the two young people donned long coats, hats and goggles. Sam tied their valise to the back of the car, cranked the wheel and the motor sputtered to life. The couple took off, waving, causing all kinds of ruckus among animals and towns-people alike. No one had ever seen anything like the horseless carriage before. Sam had told Chris it was a 1899 Stanley Steam car and he bought it almost new from a friend in San Antonio.

Chris and the others couldn't help but laugh as the thing coughed twice and went chugging down the road towards Denver. Shaking his head, he thought, it'd be a miracle if they made it in one piece.

Gloria headed back to the store, so Josiah, JD and Chris headed for the saloon. As they sat at their table, drinking coffee, Chris explained about the box he was holding and told them that when he passed away, that box was to be buried with him. JD and Josiah promised to fulfill Chris's wishes.

Once he arrived back at his homestead, Chris set the box holding Vin's remains on a table that sat by the window.

"Here ya go pard, you can look out this window and feel the sun shine on your face. The view is one you'll appreciate, too."

He sat down in the rocking chair, his one extravagance, by the table and talked to his soul mate and lover. "Here we are cowboy, together again in our old age, keeping each other company. Bet you never thought you'd get to ride in a horseless carriage, did you?"

The apparition appeared and sat in a chair next to the rocker. "Hell no cowboy," it said amicably. "'Bout shook my insides ta pieces. I's damn glad when that ride was over with."

Larabee laughed and relaxed. His tracker was back with him where he belonged.

A few years later, Chris Larabee died quietly in his sleep. Unfortunately, Josiah had preceded him in death by a few months and JD was out of town, escorting a prisoner to Yuma Prison. So, when friends and neighbors gathered to lay the gunslinger to rest, the box with the carving was left on the table, beside the rocking chair.

Present Day: August 2005

It was late Saturday afternoon when Chris and Vin arrived back at the ranch. After rubbing down the horses, cleaning and putting away the tack and camping equipment, both men headed for the house.

Larabee set the chest, from the old cabin, on his desk and started for the kitchen. There, he removed seven steaks from the freezer, for the barbeque on Sunday, while Tanner called and ordered a pizza to be delivered. After taking showers, both men settled on the floor, in front of the lit fireplace to read Chris's ancestor's diary. The reading was fascinating and informative. The man wrote everything down, from his feelings on the day's politics to his love for Tanner. The journal had been started the same day he had glanced across the street and fallen into a pair of sky-blue eyes. The book was voluminous and offered a rare glimpse into the past.

Excerpts from the Diary of Chris Larabee:

Diary Entry;
Today I met a new friend. He's young, but seems to have more experience than most men his age. The two of us joined together to save a man neither of us knew, but was being hung by drunken scum because of the color of the man's skin. I told him my name was Chris and he told me his was Vin Tanner. I recognized Tanner's name from a wanted poster I chanced to see in a sheriff's office in Eagle Bend. He doesn't look like a cold-blooded killer, but he sure can shoot.

Diary Entry;
We left yesterday to journey to an Indian Village that some renegade Johnny Rebs were threatening. Normally, I wouldn't care, but the place has women and children living there. You never threaten a man's family. We were able to put together six men for this fight. I'm not sure if that'll be enough, but we'll soon find out.
A greenhorn kid wanted to join us, but I sent him packing. He followed us, though, and after he begged to stay, I let him. I hope I'm not sorry.
PS, I was lucky enough to get Buck to join with us. It's been awhile since I've seen the big fellow, and it sure felt good to see him.

Diary Entry;
It's been over a week now since I brought together this small band of men.... We were able to save the Indian Village. Vin told me about the $500..00 bounty. Shoot, I could have killed him and been $500 richer. Why would he trust me that much? The kid did alright. I think he said his name was JD.

Diary Entry;
We're back in four Corners and have been hired by Circuit Judge Orin Travis to watch over the town. His daughter-in-law runs the newspaper here in town. She's a good-looking woman, but nosy and pushy as hell. She's already printed a lie about me, proving, I could never trust her. Vin and I have become good friends. I can't figure out, what it is about this young man that I find so appealing, but his quiet demeanor calms my soul.

Diary Entry;
Vin and I fucked today for the first time. We were skinny-dipping in the pond and something just came over me. Came over him, too, I guess.

Diary Entry;
Buck and I brought a young girl into town for Nathan to treat. She'd been brutally beaten by Wickes. I really expected Mary to feel a little compassion for the girl, but all she could talk about is decency while the poor girl layed there battered and bruised, barely alive. The next thing I know, here comes Lydia with a whole wagon full of women. What the hell? Mary is looking at me with her self- righteous stance, like I brought them here. God, I hate when she poses like that.

Chris and Vin looked at each other, smiled and thumbed further into the book.

Diary Entry;
Vin left town to track Ella Gaines. Will he come back? God, I hope so, because I cannot imagine life without him. Even when he's giving me hell, I need him. I hurt him badly, while we were at Ella's and I just hope he'll give me the chance to make it up to him Ella promised me everything I'd ever wanted. I was blinded by that promise and made a damn fool of myself. She killed my family and I just let her go.

Diary Entry;
Mary just dropped a letter in my lap. It's from Ella. I hope that bitch rots in hell. Vin's back. He said he couldn't find her, that she'd leaked out of the landscape.

They stopped reading. "You ever have a girlfriend like that?" Vin asked.

"No, thank God. I was gone so much when I was with the SEAL's, I didn't have time to form any kind of steady relationship. Well, that was until I met Sarah. Want another beer?" Chris finished.

"Yeah, but I'll get 'em." Vin answered, "You reckon this fella ever figured anyone would read this book?" as he was rising and headed for the kitchen.

On his return, he handed a bottle to his lover and sat down next to him. "No, I don't think so. He's been pretty candid here," Larabee said, as he picked up the book again.

Diary Entry;
Vin and I are together again. Vin and I are going to settle here, once the peace-keeping job is over and raise horses.

Diary Entry;
It hasn't been more than a month since Vin and I made promises to each other and I've gone and broken them. Mary, damn her soul to hell, and I spent the night together. I can't blame it all on her, I wasn't so drunk I didn't know what I was doing. He said it didn't matter, so maybe it doesn't.

Diary Entry;
Well, Mary's carrying my baby. I'll have to marry her, it's the only right thing to do. Vin says he understands, and I guess he does. I'll take care of Mary and the baby, but I sure can't have anything to do with them. Every time I see a stranger in town, I worry it's someone Ella has sent to spy on me. I won't take a chance on anything happening to Mary, Billy or the baby.

Diary Entry;
Mary had the baby a few days ago. He sure is a strong little guy. He has mine and Mary's blond hair. I went to see him, but this will be the last time I can claim him.

Chris put the diary down again and sighed. "He really is an honorable man, but I'm not sure I'd be able to do what he did, Vin." Chris frowned.

"I know, Chris, but come on, he knew what he was getting into. Spending the night with the lady, what did he think was gonna happen? Did they even have condoms back then?" Vin reasoned.

Larabee shrugged his shoulders, "I don't know. He must have liked her or he wouldn't have been there in the first place."

"That's true," Vin agreed and took a drink of his beer.

Diary Entry;
We are out of a job. The Judge informed us that a marshal would be replacing us. I'm glad it's finally happened. When Marshal Bryce came here to replace us, he didn't have a clue about the West. He figured everyone was law-biding citizens and would conform to his way. He was killed the second day on the job. He really was a good man and if he'd allowed us to back him up, he'd probably brought order to this town. The Judge is taking Vin back to Texas to receive a pardon. That's a good thing and when he returns, he'll be a free man.

My Pa died recently and now my brother, Michael, wants me to come home and help him run the farm. I hated that place when I lived there and I'm sure not going back. When the war came I left to fight for my country. After the war I went home to visit my Mama, but my Pa and I couldn't get long. He wanted me to help him work the farm, so I left and headed west. That's when I met Ella. I was escaping from Ella, when I happened to meet Buck. He's been a good friend to me ever since.

Diary Entry;
Got a letter from Vin today. He and Inez have gotten married. I feel like I've been punched in the gut. He says their coming back to Four Corners, but I'll believe that when I see them. I miss him so much. Mary took Billy and Steven to Indiana to live. My brother sent several telegrams begging me to come help out, so Mary decided to go to Indiana with the kids for a new start. He was happy for her to come and said he'd move out of the main house and into the bunkhouse. That way, her and the kids could live in the main house without the neighbors talking about her. I guess she's had enough of people whispering behind her back here in town. Maybe she'll meet someone and get married for real. I'd like to see her happy.

Diary Entry;
Vin's a pa, now. He'll probably never be back. His letter said there was another baby on the way. I know Vin wants to come home, but Inez is in charge now. I'll never figure why he married her. I understand that unmarried women aren't supposed to travel without a chaperone, but she came here from Mexico by herself. Why couldn't she return the same way? I miss you, cowboy.

Chris put the diary down and went to the liquor cabinet. Taking down two glasses, he fixed a healthy measure of Jack Daniels, and walked back to where Vin sat on the floor. He handed Vin his drink. Patting Vin on the knee, he said, "It seems he really loved his partner."

Vin nodded in agreement. It was hard reading this man's words and thoughts. There was so much anguish and sadness in his soul. It appeared he'd lost his family and now he'd lost his friend and lover.

After taking a hefty swallow of the liquor, Larabee picked up the book again and started reading.

Diary Entry;
Inez has died. I'm sorry to hear that, but maybe Vin will move the kids here and we can start over. I wrote and told him we have a nice school in town and Josiah holds Sunday services at the church every week. Maybe he'll come home.

Diary Entry;
Vin's coming home. It's only for a visit, but I'm going to try my best to get him to stay. His kids are going to be with their grandparents in Mexico, so I'll have him all to myself.

Diary Entry;
Vin's home for the summer. We've been sitting on the porch every night after supper. There's a full moon tonight. It's been damn hot during the day, but there is a cool breeze at night. Inez made Vin swear a deathbed promise he wouldn't bring the kids to Four Corners. Why would she want to be married to someone she knew didn't love her? Mary was the same way, always trying to get me to court her. Couldn't take no for an answer... Look how that mess turned out. Inez decided to trap Vin into a loveless marriage and had the kids to hold him there. She knew Vin would never leave his family, and would always take care of the kids. Now she's dead and Vin is stuck in Texas. I know I sound like a bitter old man and I guess I am. I want Vin with me. He belongs with me.

Diary Entry;
I just returned from El Paso. Vin's youngest daughter, Inez, passed away from what seemed to be a sore throat and cold.
Vin was devastated and I traveled to Texas to be with him. Mr. and Mrs. Recillos kept the children at their home in the evenings while Vin and I went back to his cabin. She was buried next to Inez in the Recillos family plot. I stayed for a month before I had to get back to my own spread.
Vin works for a real nice fella. While we was burying Lil Inez, he gave Vin the week off and paid him his full wage. Not many men would do that. We also rode over to the reservation where I met his friend Grey Horse. He's a nice man, but I was a bit surprised that Vin still cottons to the Indian ways. I figured Inez wouldn't allow that.

Diary Entry;
My son, Steven and his brother have presented themselves on my doorstep with a letter introducing them. Of course, Steven doesn't know I'm his father and he seems anxious to return to Indiana. Why, I don't know, hell, I couldn't wait to leave! Young John Larabee is going to settle here and build a home, but he seems to restless to stay in one place. I see so much of myself in him, one would think he was my son, instead of Steven. I cringe every time Steven says he wants to get home to help out his Pa. I was hoping he'd stay around and I could get to know him better. John picked out a real nice spot to build a cabin, so maybe he'll will stay with it.

Diary Entry;
Vin is home to stay. His ashes are sitting next to me and we talk every night. Funny thing is, I can actually 'see' him and we do 'talk' to each other. His daughter Elena brought me his ashes and I'll always be grateful to her for that. I've asked JD and Josiah to be sure Vin is buried with me when my time is up and they have assured me my wishes will be carried out.

Diary Entry;
We buried Josiah today. I'll miss him. We've had some very interesting conversations through the years and he has always been a good friend. Buck and Louisa came for the funeral, along with Nathan and Raine. JD and Casey were a big comfort to Gloria. Ezra and Li Pong wanted to come, but couldn't get away. Buck's kids are all grown up and his son looks just like him. They're all headed for Los Angeles, California.

They finished reading around midnight and as Chris closed the book, he leaned back against the couch and said to Vin, "I was born and raised in Indiana. My Dad assumed that Michael Larabee was my great-great grandpa, but it looks like it actually was Chris Larabee." He paused, sighed and went on, "I always hated farming and by the time I was seventeen, all I could think about was leaving. When I was in high school I studied hard and kept good grades, because I knew I wanted to go into the Navy, and to do that I had to go to college. My father could never understand where that restlessness came from. He told me time and time again that Larabees had always been farmers and had farmed our land for close to a hundred and fifty years. Chris Larabee was an enigma that was rarely discussed, but when he was, it was more as a legend. No one in Indiana really knew anything about him or what happened to him, other than he was a gunslinger of some notoriety."

"I reckon we know what happened to him now, cowboy. Who'd he leave this land to?" Vin added.

"Well," Chris started, picking up the will they had found in the box, "According to this, he left it to John Larabee on the stipulation it stay in the family. It also says that the remains of Vin Tanner were to be buried with him." Looking up at Vin he bit his bottom lip. "I wonder why no one honored that request?" Larabee mused, "Anyway, I don't know who John left it too, but my Uncle Mike and Aunt Jen lived here for years. My Dad inherited it from them. We used to come to Colorado on vacations when I was a kid. I always loved it here and Uncle Mike was a great guy to be around."

"Is that why you settled in Denver when you left the Navy?" Vin asked.

"Yeah," Chris nodded, "the house was empty and Mom told me we could stay here. Sarah and I came out on weekends and worked on the place. It didn't take long to spruce it up, so we could move in. She loved the old place, too. That was when Dad deeded the place to me." Smiling at the memory of fixing the place up. "Mom and Dad called it a wedding present. Sarah and I did a lot of repairs and updates. We put in the new kitchen and just before Adam was born, we added the dining room and master bedroom suite."

Vin watched Chris as he recalled old memories and was heartened to see the thoughts of Sarah and Adam didn't cause his face to draw up into a frown and scowl. Instead it softened, and Chris grinned.

"So, cowboy," Vin brought them back to the present, "Are we gonna tell the other's 'bout what we found? Show 'em the grants?"

Larabee pursed his mouth. "Think they'll believe it?" he asked.

"No, I hardly believe it myself," Vin mused, "but, one thing we need to do is honor the man's wishes. Spread them ashes on his grave. There's ghosts there, Chris, and maybe if the others were there, it'll give those two men some kind of closure. Let 'em really rest in peace. I reckon Josiah might agree to say a few words."

"You're right, but let's go to bed," Larabee yawned, "and sleep on it."

Vin yawned also and the men headed off to bed.

* 7 * 7 * 7 * 7 *

The following morning, the men had decided to tell the others a half truth. They'd tell them about the diary and the old gunslinger's wishes but leave out the part about the land grants. Thinking it would be a real tribute to the past, they decided to invite the rest of the team to the burial site and ask Josiah to say some words as the ashes were scattered. The matter settled, Vin and Chris ate breakfast, then proceeded to get ready for their team-mates arrival.

Ezra was the first one to arrive. He'd brought a couple bottles of wine and a case of imported beer. One by one each man brought something to add to the day's feast and Larabee's table was soon full of food. Once the steaks were ready, everyone grabbed their plate and helped themselves. Flopping down on the couch or floor of the den, everyone made themselves comfortable,the game was turned on and the normal revelry ensued. Most of the group was rooting for the Colorado Rockies, but Vin loved his Texas team, the Houston Astros. Ezra didn't care for the game of baseball, but loved the camaraderie of these get-togethers.

Once the game was over, the kitchen cleaned up and the food put away, Larabee made coffee and announced to the others that a group meeting was being called. Moans were heard throughout, but Larabee laughed and assured this meeting had nothing to do with work.

Mollified, everyone relaxed and listened as Chris began. "While Vin and I were camping, we came upon an old cabin that my ancestor, probably my great-great grandfather lived in a hundred years ago. We found his diary, and also, some suspicious remains. Vin and I read parts of the diary and it seems he wanted the remains buried with him. Now," He looked around at his friends, "for whatever reason they weren't, and Vin and I would like to go back out there and see that his wishes are carried out. You know, scatter the remains on top of his grave. We'd also like for you guys to come with us. Josiah, we were hoping maybe, you'd say some words as Vin scatters the ashes.

"Yeah, Chris, of course we'll come and I'd be honored to say something," Josiah nodded. "When do you want to go?"

Ezra agreed, "I think my horse needs to be exercised and a good ride would do him good."

JD readily nodded, "Cool! I'd love to go and see that old cabin, I can't wait."

Buck looked at Larabee and could see there was something he wasn't telling them. After years of knowing the Chris, he could read his friend like a book and he wondered what information was being left out. "I'd like to go too, Chris," he agreed, "I think it'd be real interesting."

Nathan smiled, "I'll sure go. I love history and getting a chance to explore an old homestead that hasn't been commercialized will be a once-in-a-lifetime experience. When are we going?"

Chris saw the look of doubt that Buck sent his way and knew he'd have to pull the big man aside and explain a few things. But first they'd have to decide when they were going. His teammates had lives away from the office, so he said, "Okay, when can we all get together for a weekend? It's a four-hour ride on horseback, so I think we should plan on spending the night. It's going to start getting cooler in a few weeks, so we should get together on this."

Nathan said, "Raine will be on call over the Labor Day weekend, so she'll probably spend most of it at the hospital. That's two weeks from now. How's that sound to everyone?"

After some discussion, everyone agreed that Labor Day was the best bet, since it was a three-day weekend.

As everyone was getting ready to leave, Buck asked JD to see if Josiah would drop him off, as he wanted to visit with Chris awhile longer. Ezra volunteered to drop the young man at home, so Buck, along with Chris and Vin watched from the porch as the others drove off.

As the three men started into the house, Buck clapped his friend on the back and said, "Okay stud, what's going on? What aren't you saying?"

Chris frowned, "What do you mean? We just want to honor the man's wish."

"Why?" Buck asked.

"What do you mean, why?" Chris countered.

"Why? It's a simple question. Why? The guys been dead a hunnert years. Why the rush? It could've waited 'til Spring. So why the rush? That's all I'm asking."

Vin and Chris looked at each other and Vin, with a crooked grin, nodded silently.

"Sit down Buck, I'm going to share something with you that you're not going to believe."

The trio made their way back to the den and made themselves comfortable. Chris brought out a bottle of Jack Daniels and poured each of them a measure. "I'm going to tell you a story, Buck, as I said, you can believe it or not, hell, I'm not sure I believe it myself." Taking a deep breath, Chris continued, "But it seems a hundred years ago my grandsire, Chris Larabee had a good friend named Vin Tanner. They were such good friends that when Vin Tanner died, my grandfather ended up with his ashes. He asked a couple of friends to be sure the ashes were buried with him, but they weren't and those ashes are still sitting in that cabin. Vin and I are just trying to do what's right."

Buck sat there dumbfounded. He swallowed his drink and looked at his friends, then started laughing. When he could talk, he guffaw "You're making that up, ain't cha pard." Still chortling, Buck said, "What? You and Vin decide to stop circling each other and get down to business?" Buck wiped his eyes. "That's it, ain't it! You two are fucking each other, aren't ya. Well shit, it's about time."

Chris smiled and took another swallow of his drink. "Yeah Buck, that's it. We didn't think you'd figure it out right away. And if you want to wait until Spring to scatter the ashes, that'd be fine." Chris held his breath, waiting for the answer.

Vin gave his friends a cocky grin, "Yeah Bucklin, you done figured it out..."

"I'm real happy for you two. You guys have been dancing around each other for as long as Vin's been on the team." Buck cocked an eye at Larabee, "And don't you go screwing it up, you hear me? Don't pull none of your bullshit and scare him off."

Chris squeezed Vin's hand, "I won't, Buck."

"Ain't no reason to wait until Springtime to scatter those ashes. We have the trip planned already. We'll go over Labor Day."

Chris and Vin breathed a sigh a relief. Judging from Buck's reaction, no one would believe the truth, anyway, so they decided to keep it to themselves.

* 7 * 7 * 7 * 7 *

Saturday September 3rd arrived, a bright and sunny day. The seven teammates met at Larabee's ranch around 7am and while Vin cooked breakfast, the other six men prepared the horses and pack mule. After breakfast they hit the trail. The early morning had been cool, but as they wound their way up towards the meadow where they were headed, the sun warmed the land. A little over four hours later, the men arrived at the homestead and began making camp. Once the camp was set-up, the men wandered over to the cabin and began exploring. Chris warned them to be careful, as the place was old and could conceivably and literally come down on their heads. After exploring the shack and barn, they headed for the river.

None of the others seemed to feel the pull of the place or felt it was haunted. That eased Chris's conscience, somewhat, about not relating to the others what they'd found. Maybe, in truth, the others had no bond with the house.

For their dinner, Vin trapped some rabbits and made a rich rabbit stew. The men drank their coffee with whiskey and told stories around the camp fire. As the moon rose, the seven decided to turn in as they had a busy day ahead of them.

The following morning was dark and cloudy, so the men decided to spread the ashes and start for home. Vin went to collect the box that held the ashes. Laying a hand reverently on its top, he whispered, "I hope this is what y'all really want and we're doing the right." A good feeling descended upon him and once again, felt that ghostly hand at his back. Feeling relieved, Vin grinned, 'Yep, reckon we are'.

The group broke camp, but the men kept their dusters tied behind their saddles in case it rained. After making sure the area was clean, they mounted their horses and headed for the old grave yard.

* 7 * 7 * 7 * 7 *

At the cemetery the men gathered around the old gunslinger's grave. Josiah started reading Twenty-Third Psalms from his Bible, "The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not want. He maketh me lie down in green pastures. He leadeth me beside still waters..."

As Josiah continued to read, his voice clear in the morning air, Vin gently shook the ashes out of the box onto the grave and stepped back.

As the seven men stood there, Josiah still reciting, "He restoreth my Soul..." a fog started rising from the ground.

Chris reached for Vin's hand and held tight, the others shared a collective gasp. The mist seemed to roll around them, enshrouding them in a cocoon.

Josiah kept reading, "Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I shall fear no evil, for thou art with me. Thy rod and thy staff comfort me..."

An eagle call split the air as the cloud of fog lifted gently into the sky. Through the mist, two eagles appeared, flying close to each other, their wings in full spread with the tips touching. Upward and upward they soared, calling joyously to each other. A sunbeam so bright, it hurt their eyes, opened up the heavens and shone down on the seven teammates. The eagles continued on their way until completely out of sight. As the haze disappeared, the clouds rolled back together and thunder rumbled across the valley.

Before the haze cleared, JD crossed himself and said a Hail Mary, while Nathan recited a prayer from his youth.

"Holy Mother of God," Buck whispered as the mist swirled around him and and upward.

Josiah continued, his deep voice resonating throughout the valley, "Goodness and mercy shall follow me in all the days of my life and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever. Amen."

"What in God's name was that?" Ezra asked, his voice croaked.

Josiah answered, "Two lost Souls were reunited, Ezra. We've just witnessed a miracle. Go in peace, brothers," he finished, one arm held his Bible, the other arm was lifted to the sky.

Speechless, Vin and Chris looked at each other. Vin opened his mouth to speak but closed it again when he realized he couldn't think of anything to say.

Josiah glanced over at Vin and Chris. "Is there anything you want to tell us, brothers?" he asked.

Dumbstruck, they looked at the profiler, shook their heads and looked around at the group, questioning.

Buck smiled, and indicated with a nod at the two men. Chris still had a tight hold of Vin's hand. "You two oughta fess up," he said amused.

Embarrassed, Chris let go of Vin's hand and shrugged. "Hell, why not, Vin and I are together. Anyone don't like it, see me on Tuesday when we get back to work." With that, Chris started to walk away from the cemetery

Vin stood there, unsure of what to say, and not sure what his team mates would think.

Buck, always the first to put a person at ease, slapped Vin on the back, "Congratulations, Junior. He's needed you for a long time. Hell, you're the only one who can keep him in line."

The others followed suit and Vin was greeted with pats on the back and congratulatory smiles.

Ezra grinned and held out his hand. The others dug out their wallets and handed the con man his money.

"You all had a bet goin'? 'Bout me 'n Chris?" Vin queried, stunned.

At that moment, Chris walked back to the men and said, "We have a long ride ahead of us, fellas and the weather isn't looking too good. Are you gonna stand around jawing all day or we getting this show on the road?"

"Congratulations, Chris," Josiah spoke for all of the men. "We're happy for ya."

"Thanks fellas," he said with a grin.

"Did you know they had a bet on us, cowboy?" Vin added.

Laughing as he looked at Ezra, Chris said, "Well, where's our cut?"

There were a few, "yeah, Ezra's" as the team headed for the horses and home.

Epilogue:

Chris Larabee sat across from his attorney. "Are you sure this is what you want to do, Chris?"

"Yes, it is. When I'm gone I want Vin Tanner to have the ranch house, and 650 acres surrounding it. The rest of the property is to be divided up evenly between these men." He handed the lawyer a legal-size sheet of paper, with his friends names, addresses and other information on it. "If they've passed on, then it goes to their heirs. If there are no heirs, then the surviving men divide it, equally," he said.

"I'll have this ready for you to sign by Monday. You know, my great-great grandmother's maiden name was Tanner. Elena Tanner, before she married my grandsire. I wonder if they could be related?"

Larabee laughed, "I don't think so, Vin's from Texas."

"Oh, no, you're right, she's of Spanish heritage, I think her family was originally from Mexico."

"With a name like Tanner?" Chris mused.

"Well, it's a complicated story. I'm sure you wouldn't be interested," his attorney smiled.

"I might be at that. I'll call you, Bob." Chris rose and left the attorney's office. He took notice of the sign on the door that read; Robert Samuel Carson, Atty at Law.

* 7 * 7 * 7 * 7 *

Meeting Vin at the restaurant, he slipped into the booth. Vin's eyes asked the question on his mind.

Chris spoke, "I took care of it, everyone will get an equal share of the property. I put the land grants and the other papers from the chest in a safety deposit box at the bank. Here's a key and the signature card you'll need to sign. You get a key and I'll have a key. When the time comes, pard, you'll be the one taking care of things and it'll be up to you, whether you tell the others or not. By the way, I think I may have found Elena Tanner's family. Anyway, this will bring our lives full circle, Vin."

Vin nodded and smiled, life was good and their circle of life was about to be closed. He and Chris had no heirs, Josiah had his sister, Hannah, but no children. Nathan had Raine and they'd probably have a couple of kids. JD and Casey most likely would get married and have a family. The others, well you could never tell. Life was funny that way. He looked at Chris and grinned, "I love you, cowboy," and as Chris returned the smile, he whispered, "Me too, pard."

End

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