"Don't overdo yourself, dear," Emily called after Dixie as she washed the breakfast dishes.

"I won't, I promise," Dixie assured, stepping outside with Krissy right behind her. She smiled. Everyone had been concerned about her overdoing it since she'd fainted and Nathaniel brought her home still passed out. She could only imagine what Pa and Tavin had thought when he'd brought her up like that. When she'd come to, she explained Nathan hadn't hurt her in any way, but had saved her from falling to the ground and hitting her head as she fainted. No one wanted to believe Nathan had helped her, especially Tavin.

Krissy snapped her fingers. "Dixie? Dixie!"

"Yes?" Dixie shook her head to clear her mind. "What is it? Did I miss somethin'?"

Krissy laughed, shaking her head with a smile. "I've been talking to you this whole time."

"Oh, dear. I never heard you. What did you say?"

"I was asking if you could teach me how to milk the cow. Well, hello there Annalyn," Krissy greeted as the brand new wife walked around the corner of the barn.

"Good mornin'!" Annalyn smiled cheerfully, giving both girls a hug. "I'll teach you how to milk our cow, Krissy. She's a little moody, and I know the best approach to milkin' her."

Krissy clapped her hands together in excitement. "Awesome! Lead the way, my dear!"

Annalyn and Krissy had taken a few steps before Annalyn realized Dixie hadn't joined them. She turned to see her staring off into the pastures. "Are you comin', Dixie?"

"N-no. Y'all go have fun. I just want to look around for a bit." Dixie gave a smile, and Annalyn could see the pain hidden underneath. Maybe inviting her to stay at the Double A was not such a good idea.

Annalyn frowned at Dixie, who was a tad on the pale side. "Are you sure? I don't want you to pass out."

Dixie gave a small laugh. "I'm perfectly fine. But if I start feelin' faint, I promise I'll sit down and get one of y'all's hands to tell you where I'm at."

Annalyn nodded. "You better. I'd never hear the end of it if you passed out somewhere out there and got hurt."

"Please be careful," Krissy added, small worry lines framing her face.

"I will, I promise," Dixie said with a smile she didn't feel. She watched the two girls walk away for a moment before turning to face the pastures filled with horses and rolling grass. She could see a few of the ranch hands trotting around on horses behind the fields, busy doing the odds and ends making up their job. She felt like, if she looked hard enough, she would spot Jason riding along the fencing on Raven. This was where he belonged, where he should be, standing beside her as her husband. As much as she wished it were so, it could not be.

If only the sheriff at Dry Gulch had found Raven! Maybe caring for that spirited stallion would ease some of the sorrow. She didn't have Raven, but she did have the next best thing. Twilight.

Easing through the open doors, Dixie entered the barn and walked to the stalls to the warm nicker of greeting from Twilight. She smiled, pressing her face into the fuzzy soft skin of Twilight's muzzle. She soaked in the solid reassurance her horse's warm breath brought, a trail of tears beginning their silent march down her cheeks. The stall she stood before held a bittersweet memory.

It seemed like just yesterday she'd walked into the barn to confront Jason, who had been fixing the very stall Twilight was in now. She could almost see him hammering down a board, his butt stuck up in the air. She giggled at the thought, tears washing down her face. It felt good to laugh.

Twilight nibbled on Dixie's fingers, removing the light-hearted scene from her mind. She gazed up at the wooden frame of the stall and peered around the inside to the back left corner. It was there her relationship with Jason bloomed into something neither of them could deny any longer. But his life had come to an unexpected end, and along with it, their love. It seemed so unfair that God had swiped him away from her. She stared up at the rafters of the barn, her lips quivering. Lord, why did You take him from me? Why?

Dixie knew the moment she asked it was not her place to question God's ways. She opened her mouth to utter a plea of forgiveness when a still, small voice spoke into her heart, taking her breath away.

What if I haven't taken him?

Peace like a river flowed over Dixie and, for the first time in a week, she felt secure and loved. There was no greater consolation than hearing from God. She repeated His words in her mind, a sudden realization occurring to her. What if Jason wasn't dead like she, and everyone else, thought? Her heart leaped at the prospect. She would discuss the possibility with Tavin when she returned home.

Twilight snorted, her ears pointing forward. Her nostrils flared as she backed further into the stall.

Dixie frowned at Twilight. Something--or someone--was behind her. She slowly turned around--right into the arms of the last person she expected to see.

"Nathan!" she exclaimed, the surprise she felt creeping into her tone. She took in his perfectly combed red hair, gleaming eyes, charming smirk, and spiffy clothing. "We've got to stop runnin' into each other like this."

Nathaniel took her hands, a sly grin on his face. "I find it quite humorous myself."

"Well, I don't. You gave me a scare," Dixie admitted, laughing lightly to soften the statement. The hairs on the back of her neck stood up unexpectedly. There was something about Nathaniel's demeanor that put her on edge. She smiled, not wanting to seem disturbed. "Why are you here?"

He chuckled, the sound rumbling deep in his chest. He took one step forward. "To see you, my lovely. Why else?"

Dixie retreated a step. A prickle of fear crawled up her spine as her back hit the barn wall. She forced a smile. "Oh, I dunno. To see Matthew and Emily? Or even to buy a horse?"

"Hmm." He took another step, firmly pressing her against the wall. He kissed her forehead, then her nose, and ending with her lips. "I'm here for another matter entirely."

Dixie fought against the surge of panic that choked her. She took a deep breath to calm her racing heart. Nathaniel's face was so close, she could see the gold flecks in his eyes. She had no clue what had gotten into him, but whatever it was scared her. "Oh? Do tell."

He traced his finger along the collar of her dress, stopping to free the top button ever so slowly. He planted a kiss on her jawline. "Should I have to?"

Dixie wiggled to loose herself, but only succeeded in being pinned even tighter against the wall. She refused to allow terror take over, instead she cried out to God in her mind. She tried to keep her face as unreadable as possible, unwilling to let him see the fear she felt. Maybe she could talk her way out of this. "Nathan?"

"Yes, darling?" he asked after undoing another button.

Dixie began to speak when she heard a loud crash and Nathan cried out in pain. A milk jug rolled on the floor by her and Nathan's feet, the rest of its creamy contents seeping into the dirt. Her heart fluttered with hope as she caught a glimpse from around Nathan of Krissy standing with fists balled in anger.

Nathan wheeled around, snatching up the metal jug. He hurled it across the barn, hitting Krissy in the back of the head as she turned to run for help.

Krissy took a few tottering steps before careening over onto the floor with a thump.

Dixie took advantage of Nathan's distracted state and tried to run to the door. Her sense of freedom withered like an unwatered plant as Nathan's hand clamped around her arm.

"Woah, now. Hold your horses, little lady. We're not done," he purred, gently shoving her against the wall. Her skin prickled as he fingered each button, undoing them all in quick succession. He reached up to slip the dress off her shoulders but a stone cold voice stopped him in his tracks.

"Remove your hands from the lady and back away slowly, if you value your life," Jedidiah barked out, his revolver glinting in the light leaking from the small holes in the roof.

Nathan gave Dixie such a look she shivered as he raised his hands above his head and turned around slowly.

Jedidiah approached them swiftly, someone else entering onto the scene unnoticed. He grabbed Dixie by the arm and gently shoved her out of harm's way.

For the second time that day, Dixie stumbled into someone's chest. But this one was different. It felt like home.

"He didn't hurt you, did he?" the voice she had longed to hear every waking moment murmured by her ear.

She looked up into the handsome face of Jason, her eyes overflowing with tears. She was so shook she could do nothing but stare up at him and cry, the tears slipping down her neck. She closed her eyes, opening them to see him still standing there. It wasn't a dream.

Jason cupped her face in his large hands, smoothing away the tears with his thumb. "Hush now, Angel. Don't cry. I'm here."

Dixie grabbed his hand, pressing a kiss against it. Her lips were like petals of flame against the icy, rough fingers of her long lost love.

Jason pulled her into his arms, holding her as delicately as one would a seashell. He listened to her heart, thanking God with all his soul that he was alive and well and able to have the love of his life in arms.

"Isn't that sweet," Nathan sneered despite the gun pointed at him. He was anything but happy that his plan had been foiled.

"Shut up," Jedidiah commanded, smashing his foot into the back of Nathaniel's knee and sending him to the ground.

"He didn't hurt you, did he?" Jason asked again, looking her over. "If he did, so help me God. . ." he trailed off, a tinge of pink creeping up his neck. "Dixie, your dress."

Dixie's hand flew to her chest where her dress lay unbuttoned. She blushed crimson, making quick work of the buttons. "I'm sorry."

"No need to apologise." Jason looked down into her eyes with so much love and concern it made her knees weak. "You never answered my question."

"No, he didn't hurt me. But I was so scared," Dixie admitted, tears slipping down her face.

"I know, baby, I know," Jason cooed as he wiped the tears away once again. He wrapped his arms around her waist, tugging her close. With a quick intake of air, he laid his lips on hers. He caressed her back, deepening the kiss as she threw her arms around his neck. After a few moments, he pulled back, his breath ragged. "I love you, Angel."

"I love you too, Cowboy," Dixie breathed out, laying her head on his chest. Under her ear, his heart pounded strongly. Never was there a more beautiful sound. She jerked her head up, her eyes wide. "Krissy!"

"Krissy?" Jason echoed as she left his arms. He let his now empty arms fall to his sides.

Dixie ran over to where Krissy was sitting on the ground with her head propped on her hands. "Are you okay?"

"Never better. My head's sore, but I'm fine." Krissy smiled, waving Dixie away. "Please, go back to Jason. It is so sweet to see you two together. Can you kiss her again?"

Jason laughed as he helped Krissy to her feet. "I'd love to."

Dixie's body tingled with anticipation as he kissed her again. She beamed at him. "By the way, this is my cousin, Krissy."

"Nice to meet ya," Jason drawled, reaching up to tip his hat that wasn't there. He laughed. "Can't get used to not wearin' a hat."

"I could," Dixie admitted, reaching up to finger the small curls the heat and his sweat had created. "But you do look good in a hat, too."

Jedidiah heaved Nathaniel to his feet, marching him forward. "Jason, are you well enough to help me?"

"Sure," Jason replied even though he knew his healing wound may cause issues. "Whatcha need help with?"

Jedidiah peered at him, taking in his slightly pale face. He'd have to keep an eye on him. He wouldn't let Dixie lose him again, not after just getting him back. "Arrestin' Thomas McGuire and his crooks. I'll need to find some more men, 'cause from what I've gathered, there's a lot of folks at the Crooked M."

Nathaniel gave a dry laugh. "You won't need any men. No one's supposed to be there but my Ma and sister."

Jason cocked his head, looking at Nathaniel as if he'd lost his mind. "How do I know we can trust you?"

Nathaniel shrugged. "I don't care if you trust me or not, but we received a message saying Trent and his men were arrested. All of our men are gone."

"Then I'm comin' with y'all," Dixie informed. She walked up to Nathaniel, searching his eyes. "Are you sure nobody's there?"

"Yes."

Dixie acknowledged his response with a nod. She knew she could trust him. Despite what he had been planning to do to her, he wouldn't want anyone to harm her.

"Hold on, princess." Jason grabbed Dixie's arm. The look in his eyes held no room for arguments. "You ain't goin'."

"Excuse me, sir, but I am. If you can go, so can I. There will be no one there. I trust Nathan."

"You what?" Jedidiah spoke up, a look of utter shock on his face. "Look here, little lady, he was gonna. . . he didn't have the most honorable intentions toward you when I came in here. But you trust him?"

"Yes." Dixie was solid in her belief, unwilling to waver in the least.

Nathaniel gazed at Dixie, a look on his face she didn't recognize. "See? She does love me."

Dixie left Jason to stand in front of Nathan. She was now unafraid of him, and looked into his eyes with confidence. Despite all Nathan had done, she gently wrapped her arms around him. "I do love you, Nathan. Regardless of everythin', you're my friend and I care about you. But, my heart belongs to Jason."

Jedidiah and Jason shared a look. They both saw what looked like the glimmer of a tear in Nathan's eyes.

Dixie let go of Nathan, staring up into his face. "Do me a favor and cooperate with Jedidiah. Give him all the information you know, and maybe. . .maybe you won't be hung."

Nathan nodded, his eyes bright with appreciation for the woman standing before him. "Thank you," he said quietly, turning to Jason. "You're one lucky man to have her."

Jason grinned, walking up and slipping his hand around Dixie's. "You can say that again."

"She definitely is amazing," Krissy spoke up with a smile at her cousin.

A small smirk pulled at Jedidiah's lips. "I can't agree more with any of y'all. I've only known Dixie for a short time, but I've a mind to scoop her up for myself."

Jason tugged Dixie close, raising an eyebrow at the short deputy. "If you had half a brain, you wouldn't try it. I'd be shovin' you in that cell up yonder with Nathan. Or worse."

Nathaniel laughed and Jedidiah joined. He jerked his head back at Jedidiah. "The more the merrier, Deputy."

"Thanks for the offer, but I believe I'll pass." Jedidiah moved Nathan forward a few steps. "First thing's first, let's go dethrone the current sheriff."

Krissy's gaze was full of confusion with a flare of interest. "Dethrone the sheriff?"

"You'll hear the story, dear. Now run back inside and let the others know where we're goin'."

"Tell them I'm goin' too," Dixie called out.

Krissy paused, nodding to let her know she'd heard. She couldn't hide the disappointment behind her smile, but she tried. "Alright. Be careful."

"We will." Jason grinned. "Let's get to it!"

***

"Hand over the star."

Rawhide looked up at Jedidiah with squinted eyes, propping his feet up on the desk. "For what reason?"

Jedidiah waved an envelope in front of the man's face. "Because I said so, and so does these official papers."

"Boy, do you know who I am? Official papers are nothin' to me."

"The question is"--Jedidiah leaned down, his face inches from Rawhide's-- "do you realize who I am?"

Rawhide looked unphased as he crossed his arms. "I don't care if you're the president, I ain't handin' over my badge."

"Fine. You don't have to cooperate," Jedidiah ground out, yanking Rawhide from the desk by the front of his shirt. With a grunt, he dragged Rawhide to the door and flung him out.

Rawhide tumbled down the steps, rolling through the dirt a ways before landing on his back at Jason and Dixie's feet.

Jedidiah sauntered down the steps to Rawhide, bending down to collect the silver star with a smile. "I'll take that, thank you."

As Jedidiah stepped out of the way, Jason hauled Rawhide to his feet. "It's bye-bye back to the iron bars for you, bud!"

After being escorted back inside the sheriff's office, Rawhide was locked away in the small cell with Nathaniel. He watched them sullenly like a young child deprived of its favorite plaything.

Jedidiah linked his arms across his chest. He turned on his heels, facing Jason with a slight grin. His eyes scanned Jason before stopping on his feet. "If you don't make it, I'm takin' your boots."

Jason cocked his eyebrow, shooting a quick glance at his fringed and beaded moccasins that matched his vest and pants. He stared into Jedidiah's laughing eyes and cracked a smile. "Let's see, shall we?"

***

"All clear."

Jason's words met Dixie's ears and she blew out a sigh of relief. Regardless of her trust in Nathaniel, she hadn't been quite sure if he had told everything once they'd arrived at the Crooked M.

"We're good here, too," Jedidiah echoed as he and Jason strolled back to Dixie's side. He smirked at Dixie with a shake of his head as he holstered his revolver. "Looks like Nathaniel was tellin'the truth after all. There was no one to be seen anywhere, nor any horses."

Dixie smiled in response. She took a few steps toward the front door of the large ranch house. "Now, to check in here."

As Jason pulled Dixie behind himself, Jedidiah eased to the door. He tried the knob, and it creaked open. After a quick nod at Jason, he eased inside.

The hollow, metallic noise of a gunshot rang out, cutting through the air like a knife.

Instantly, Jason took Dixie to the ground, shielding her with his body. When he was sure no other shots were forthcoming, he cautiously stood and helped Dixie to her feet.

"Who's up there?" Jedidiah demanded a whispy woman with pale blond hair, jerking his chin upstairs.

She looked up at Jedidiah with wide blue eyes full of terror. "M-my husband. He was in his o-office."

"Stay here," Jason murmured to Dixie as he unholstered his pistol and followed Jedidiah up the stairs.

Dixie watched them go for a fleeting moment, sending up a prayer with them. A cry of anguish snapped her back to reality, and she saw the woman holding a girl with unruly red curls. "Hailey," she breathed out as the girl let go of her mother and grabbed into her. She closed her eyes, tears sliding down her own face.

The grief rolling off Hailey crashed against her and Dixie as they held each other. Her sobs violently wracked her body, yet Dixie held onto her.

"Hailey, darling, the baby," Mrs. McGuire warned softly as she rubbed Hailey's arm.

Dixie held Hailey at arm's length, realizing Hailey was very pregnant. Scores of questions raged through her mind but they would just have to rage. The only thing that mattered was Hailey, and her unborn baby. She gently forced Hailey to look up at her. "Shh don't cry. It'll be alright."

Hailey's deep green eyes were bright with pain and tears as she looked at Dixie. Her lip quivered and she shook her head, tears slithering down her face. Her gaze dropped to her round belly and she rubbed it with a hand. When she met Dixie's gaze, her eyes were absent of any emotion and she lifted her chin resolutely. When she spoke, her voice was strong, but wavered ever so slightly, "Thank you."

"He's dead. Ate a gun," Jedidiah confirmed as he took the steps two at a time with Jason only a second behind. He glanced to the family. "I'm sorry."

Mrs. McGuire held Hailey close as if to protect her. She met his steady gaze. "Thank you. Are you sendin' someone to retrieve his body?"

Jedidiah gave a slight nod. "Yes ma'am."

Once outside and free of the depression-filled air of the McGuire home, Jason took Dixie in his arms. He brushed his lips against her cheek, drawing a smile from her. "Remember what I promised I'd do when I got back?"

A giggle and a sigh escaped from Dixie. Her lashes fluttered closed for a brief moment before her eyes opened, shining with love. "How could I forget?"

A chuckle rumbled deep in Jason's chest. "Then I suggest the good Sheriff better not hold us up for much longer, 'cause you're becomin' mine before sunset."

Jedidiah looked up at the sky. It was only a few hours away until then. He grinned, looping a finger in his belt loop and sending a sidelong glance at Jason from under his cowboy hat. "Better get goin' then. You ain't got long."

Jason smiled in response before laying his lips on Dixie's. Grabbing her hand, he tugged her toward the horses. With a smile full of passion, he whispered in her ear, "I can't wait."