A day later, they were camped out in the wilderness, growing antsy. Billy had decided they were going to Lincoln to take care of Brady and his ilk. Doc and Billy had argued this fact, but Billy ultimately won. Now they were a day closer and settled in for the evening. The weather was starting to warm a little during the days now that it was mid April. But the nights remained chilly, so the group of Regulators settled around the fire.

The young blonde woman had taken up residence near a large boulder just barely along the edge of the fire's warmth. She preferred to keep her distance. She was still sore with them all and ignored Billy the majority of their ride.

The blond man she was ignoring was staring at her from across the way, being sure to keep his distance. Billy had a blue neckerchief around his throat to hide the small but deep cut the blonde had given him. He sighed and leaned back against his saddle to rest trying to keep the woman from his thoughts.

Steve and Charlie were off to Billy's left chatting about something they had seen in the newspaper. Apparently there was some kind of stage play in Santa Fe and the reviews about it were amusing the two. Laughter echoed out and Steve hit the paper in hand finding one of the reviews particularly funny.

Earlier in the evening, Chavez had disappeared into the night. Nobody knew where he went except that he didn't take his horse, so they assumed he was coming back.

The other blond in the group also eyed the woman, watching as she struggled with replacing the bandage on her shoulder. Doc hadn't really talked to her much since he had returned the day before. Though, Charlie had filled him in on what he had missed. He wasn't too thrilled knowing Billy had nearly killed Kristal, or the fact that Kristal had nearly killed Billy. But he had been grateful that she had returned Dick to them. It had meant a lot to him knowing his friend was laid to rest and he could pay his last respects. He had said his peace to his friend before they had rode out. He missed his friend dearly, quietly wishing he was still there, riding with them to help keep Billy in check.

Shaking his head, the man grabbed a bowl of the stew Charlie had made and stood up. As he approached, his shadow blocked her light and she looked up, expression dark. However, at the sight of him he noticed her visibly sigh. "Scurlock," her husky tone drawled. "Somethin' I can do fer ya?"

"Brought ya something to eat. Mind if I sit?" Doc held up the bowl and moved to sit at her nod.

"Obliged. But I ain't really hungry." The blonde was no longer looking at him. Her attention was back on trying to wrap her chest and failing miserably. It was difficult without the use of both arms.

"You haven't eaten since we left camp yesterday. You have to be hungry." He wasn't about to let it go. He was worried for her. She needed her strength. Chavez had told him she had been out cold for two full days and they had worried that she wasn't going to wake up at all.

Green eyes turned onto the bowl as Doc held it out to her. "Keepin' track o' m' eatin' habits, Doc? One might get the suspicion that ya care." At his indignant expression, she gave a soft chuckle and shook her head. "Fine. Let me finish this an' I'll eat a little. But I really ain't hungry. Kinda haven't been feelin' m'self lately."

Realizing she had been teasing him, Doc let go of her comment. Of course he cared. He hoped she knew that. However, the blond man then rose a brow, concerned. "Are you getting sick?"

Kris shook her head, "I haven't been sick since I was ten."

"If that's true, then what do you mean?" Came Doc's quick but concerned response.

The woman sighed and paused in her wrapping once again, "I really shouldn't have said anythin'... I've jus'... I dunno."

Something crossed her eyes, and Doc could almost swear it was sorrow, maybe even pain? "Kristal, you can tell me anything."

Those deep green eyes lifted to look him in the eye and he was a bit taken by surprise. There was emotion there. However, when she blinked it was gone. "Tell me somethin' Doc, did ya think I abandoned ya too?"

A frown pulled at Doc's features and he lowered his head, hand moving to rub the back of his neck. "I am ashamed to say, that it had crossed my mind. Of course, I thought you were the smartest of us all to get out while you could, but... I never would have thought that you... were still trying to help us. I should have known better." Here Doc sighed, "I think you have been the most loyal out of all of us. Not leaving Dick behind. That is commendable. Not leaving us even though you had every right... You are more honorable and loyal than anyone I know."

Kristal shook her head, his honesty was refreshing but his praise made her uncomfortable. "I ain't nothin' special, Doc. I do what I feel is right. I ain't really honorable, though. I am an outlaw after all. But..." She had to pause, trying to think of how she wanted to say this. "I stayed fer John... I stayed fer Dick as infuriatin' as he often was... I stayed fer every single one o' ya. 'Cause I care an'..." And she had to pause again, this time letting out a deflated sigh, "I know I ain't one o' ya. I ain't a Regulator. But, I dunno... guess I jus' hate the fact all o' ya think so damn little o' me, thinkin' I'd turn yella and run. That I'd abandon all o' ya. An' what I don't understand is why? Is it 'cause I'm a woman? Or 'cause I'm an outlaw? Have I given any reason fer ya not ta trust me?"

"It's not that, Kris." Doc started and then stopped. "I don't know how to quite put this without you getting mad..."

"Jus' spit it out, Doc. No need ta spare m' feelin's." Kristal then mumbled in addition, "all y'all kinda already crushed 'em anyway."

Doc didn't hear her but Billy who had been listening and watching beneath the brim of his hat, had read the words on her lips. He frowned but said nothing.

"Well, if I'm to be frank, it's hard to get close to you. You kinda hold us all at arm's length. We really don't know much about you. Trust comes with being honest and open. All we know is that you are an outlaw. You were shot and didn't even bother to tell us what happened. You speak of your gang in tidbits. But nothing more. You say they're dangerous, so we wonder if we need to worry about them too. Yet, at the same time, you know so much about us." He was speaking what had been on all their minds.

Kristal scoffed, abandoning the wrapping of her shoulder for a moment. "And what do I know, Doc? Truly? Y'all haven't opened up ta me either. I dunno nothin' much 'bout any o' ya. Other than yer time with Mister Tunstall. Y'all keep the time before that closely guarded. But, I'm supposed ta open the hell up?" She shook her head incredulously.

"Ya wanna know why I don't talk 'bout m'self? 'Cause it ain't good... it's painful... I went through hell. But I don't want yer pity either. I don't want y'all ta look at me differently. 'Cause I'm here now. That time was hell, it still gives me... nightmares..." Her gaze shifted to Billy who was watching her with such intensity she had to look away.

"I suffered through a lot, dealt with more, but I'm here now. Does it make me not trust people easy? Hell yeah it does. But it doesn't keep me from helpin' those I care 'bout, bein' there fer 'em when they need me..." She paused her voice softening, her emotion more evident. "Like I'd hope others would do the same fer me... Not needin' ta know m' past in order ta have m' back. But instead, I've been stabbed over an' over again. An'... I oddly enough... jus' keep lettin' it happen."

Kristal sighed, now staring into the fire, "I ain't ever had friends... Not really. Hell, not even much of a family. But it don't mean I didn't form an idea o' what they should be like. Carin', trustin', bein' there fer each other no matter what. Even when ya may not like each other much at the moment." Again her eyes turned on Billy but then wandered to each of them. Charlie and Steve we're now watching and listening as well. "Loyal ta the end and honest. I may not tell ya much 'bout m' past, but at least," she paused, breathing another sigh, "I'm honest 'bout who I am. An' I don't think I've ever done anythin', while with y'all, ta warrant such distrust."

"So honest you kept Dick in the dark for days." It was Steve who commented, feeling like he should make a point.

Scoffing, Kristal shook her head. It would be Steve to question her. "I never said I wasn't an outlaw, Steve. I jus' let him believe what he wanted. An' never clarified one way or the other." She was now back to trying to wrap her injury. "I thought I was protectin' y'all... But I was protectin' m'self too... How was I ta know one o' ya wouldn't turn me in?"

The poet was quiet for some time and he nodded, "you're right. We haven't been loyal to you like you have to us. I'm sorry, Kristal." That had been hard to say. To admit they had failed her.

"Doc's right, Kris. I wanna say that I'm sorry too. I should have been a better friend and not let my... my worries get to me." Charlie added, his brows knit together showing how worried he currently was.

Kristal knew what Charlie really meant was his fear. The poor guy was fearful of his life. He didn't want to die and she couldn't say she blamed him.

"Yeah... Guess I'm sorry too." Steve added, with a perturbed expression on his face.

"You? Really?" Charlie couldn't help but query.

"Yeah... sure... why the hell not...? I'm sorry you were all assholes to her." Steve said solemnly, meaning every word.

"What? So were you! You've been a dumbass and an asshole." Charlie responded.

"Yeah, but I've been an asshole the whole time. She ain't expectin' no less from me."

"Don't forget the dumbass."

"I ain't forgettin' that part. I ain't a dumbass so don't need ta add it."

Rolling her eyes at Charlie and Steve, Kristal smirked and shook her blonde head. It wasn't lost on her that Billy had been all too quiet through the whole thing. Apparently Bonney thought he was too good to apologize again. "I appreciate the sentiment, fellas... Pro'lly best we get some rest..."

"Do you... you know... forgive us?" Doc had to know. He couldn't worry about how two women felt about him. Granted, he now viewed Kristal more like a sister, not like before when he had once been crushing on her. That had been some time ago, before he met Yen Sun.

A deep and heavy sigh fell from her lips, and Kristal's gaze returned to the fire. "I'll think 'bout it." With that she got up and headed for the darkness.

"Where ya goin', Kris?" Charlie called out.

"No where. Jus' gonna check on Midnight." And think a little, but there was no need to tell him that part.

Doc watched as she disappeared into the darkness with a sigh. Turning, he frowned. Sitting on the ground was the untouched bowl of stew. The woman hadn't taken a bite. It concerned him. Lifting his gaze to the shadow that stood over him, he looked up.

Billy stood over Doc. "I noticed too. I'll take it to her. Make sure she eats it." He sighed, "god only knows she needs it. She needs to rebuild her strength."

The other blond man wondered at Billy's remark. What did that mean? Shaking his head, he watched as the other man followed the woman into the darkness.

****

Walking alone through the dark night, she paused near a small pond. Crouching down, she shivered at the cold. Midnight snorted a few feet away awaiting her. For the moment though, she knelt down, staring at her reflection in the dark mirror of the pool. Faded footsteps sounded. They were quiet and she knew who's they were immediately.

"Chavez..." It was said in greeting, but her tone sounded tired and clipped.

"Are you okay, Chiquita?"

Chavez's voice warmed her, but she squeezed her eyes shut. "I'm fine. Jus' tired is all..."

"Why is it that I feel you are not physically tired?" Chavez's tone was soft, curious about why she was acting this way, even though he had his suspicions.

"How perceptive o' ya. Yer right though... I mean I am tired, but it's more than physically... I'm tired emotionally, mentally... Jus'... So damn tired." All Kristal could do after saying that was sigh, confirming her mixed form of exhaustion.

"Did something happen to cause this?" His concern for her was palpable

The blonde scoffed. Did something happen? That was the same damn question she constantly asked herself. Even after all this time she felt like she was a stranger to all of them. "Doc... Billy, Dick, Charlie... Kinda expected it from Steve... But... You too."

"Me?" Chavez was taken by surprise. "I'm not sure what I have done, Chiquita."

Kristal sighed, feeling her emotions boiling. "Jus' got a lot ta think about... Y'all think so damn little o' me. Jus' tryin' ta figure out where I draw the line? When do I realize... Shit... I dunno. But I'm the damn one who don't trust."

"Lo siento, Chiquita. I never meant to make you feel that way. I did not think you abandoned us. I thought you got smart. Like I wish I did... Like I want to. To leave and go to California and start over. But Chivato refuses..." He shook his head. "I think you are an asset to us. We need you."

"An asset?" Kristal repeated feeling a pang go through her. She frowned at the use of that word. God did it bother her. Was that all she ever was... All she was ever meant to be was a damn asset? Something she had been told time and time again? She very much doubted that was what Chavez was referring to, but then again... she couldn't be sure. Everything seemed so jumbled and confusing. She had never hurt like this before... and it bothered her immensely.

"Chiquita?" Chavez questioned, curiosity growing into concern. Had he said something wrong?

"Thanks... " Kristal murmured. "I understand what ya mean, Chavez." And she did, but the reference of being referred to as an asset was not comforting even though she knew he meant for it to be. "An'.... yeah, thanks fer that."

Chavez was now frowning. She was acting different. Very unlike her normal confident self. It was concerning. "Kris-"

"I'm fine, Chavez." She quickly cut him off and stood. "Jus' need some time alone if ya don't mind?"

"Course." The Mexican-Indian man said with a nod and turned to walk back to the fire light. "Need anything, just call out."

"Sure." Was all she said as he walked off.

Standing up, Kristal clucked her tongue a couple times and Midnight trotted over to her. Her arms immediately went around the horse's neck even though her injured arm protested. She grunted and sighed, her arm couldn't go all the way around without reopening the wound.

"Damn..." She rested her head on the black stallions neck, hugging him close. "Why is it that I still feel so... alone... All this time, I thought... Shit... I thought maybe, fer once, I might have friends." Her fingers combed through Midnight's thick mane. "Maybe Belle was right... I am only an asset. Nothin' more. Nobody wants ta be friends with an outlaw, a woman, an' especially a woman who dresses like a damn man." Here she sighed and dug her face into the horse's mane, eyes burning.

Why couldn't she just let it go? Had she really grown soft? Maybe... Or maybe it was because she had actually let people in, passed the walls she had carefully put up. She hated that it bothered her so much. But didn't she have that right? Was she being overly emotional? Damn! Since when was she ever emotional?!

"I reckon no man could wear or even fit into your clothes, or did I hear that wrong?"

That voice! Where the hell had he come from? Was he following her? "Bonney!" Kristal practically spat out. "What the hell are ya talkin' 'bout. Why are ya here?" Her eyes then narrowed, "are ya followin' me?"

The man shrugged and glanced around. "Just sayin' what Mrs. Ellis told me that day in town. Ya know, when ya refused that dress." He looked down at the bowl in his hand. "Maybe I am. But it's only-..."

"Yer confusin' as hell Bonney." Kristal shook her head cutting him off, not understanding what he was getting at. What did the dress and her clothes have to do with anything? "What the hell d'you know anyway. Y'all think I'm no better than a dirty rat. Walkin' away, leavin' ya behind. Hell, ya'll acted like I betrayed ya. There ain't no trust. I ain't truly one o' ya... I get it. Y'all made that fuckin' clear." The words spilled out of her mouth without reserve. The dam that had been bottling her emotions breaking and it was slowly making her lose her control.

Again Billy shrugged but this time added a sigh, "an we... I was wrong." He took a step toward her, not about to let her think that he thought the worst of her. "I hate to break it to ya Kris, but I don't see ya that way. I thought ya left sure. But, ya proved me wrong. And as much as I hate being wrong, I'm glad I was this time."

Kristal rolled her eyes. "Oh? That's funny comin' from you. Ya thought I was so far gone ya shot me thinkin' I was someone else."

"A mistake I hope to rectify some day, if ya'll allow me..." He held out his free hand in an honest plea. He continued feeling the need to add, "an' I'm pretty damn sure I never once said ya ain't one of us. If ya weren't, d'ya think I'd care so much if ya did leave. You are one of us. You have been from the beginning, we've all just been too blind to see that clearly."

Blowing through her lips in a frustrated sigh, Kris shook her head. She wasn't sure what to believe. His voice held such conviction she wanted to believe it, but the pain in her shoulder made her second guess everything. "I dunno, Bonney...." Her gaze scoured the ground, as if it was going to give her the answers her heart saught for. "One o' ya? Why is that so hard ta believe. After all this time... After y'all finally realize how devoted I am? Or because y'all feel guilty? Why not when I stayed after John died? Why not when I didn't high tail it after the Henry Hill fiasco? Or after Dick thought I was lyin' 'bout McCloskey? I don't even know why I stay anymore at this point."

Billy's gaze shot to her, shock washing over his face. Something crossed his eyes, worry or fear, she couldn't be sure. Finally, after seeming to war with his thoughts, he questioned her. "You're really thinkin' of leavin'?"

That question caught her off guard. Was she? Kinda? But she wouldn't. She'd see this through and then leave. And do what? Go back to Belle and Sam? She visibly shuddered which Billy's ever watchful gaze caught despite the nearly moonless night. "I ain't gonna leave till this is over. Once we've righted this wrong done to John. I made a promise. I ain't gonna go back on it. If I ain't nothin' else, I am a woman o' m' word. After this though... I dunno. Not really sure... Especially when I'm nothin' more than a damn asset ta anyone, it seems." Damn that had bothered her.

Billy's head tilted to look at her, trying to understand where that came from. An asset? She seemed to not like that too much. But why? What was wrong with being an asset? She was more than that though. "Ya ain't just an asset, Kris. Sure, yer damn good at what ya do. But, you're more'n that. Sure you're an outlaw, but you're also a gunslinger an' a knifesmith," here he smirked and lowered his voice, "ya might even be better'n Chavez."

He chuckled at that and then continued, "you're a damn good rider, a fiery woman who wears clothes no man could fit into. Sure, it ain't a dress, but maybe it's growin' on me." That annoying crooked grin pulled at his lips, a wild spark in his eye. "You're loyal as hell, just wish I would'a realized it sooner. But above all, ya are a trustworthy friend and there ain't anyone else I'd want watchin' my back more'n you."

At her raised brow, Billy chuckled, "an' no I don't mean it like McCloskey meant it. 'Less ya tell me different." He waggled his eye brows at her which actually made her chuckle, if only slightly. "I am a gentleman after all Kris... Or at least try ta be one."

Shaking her head, she rubbed at her shoulder absentmindedly. He watched her, concern in his eyes, but she didn't think anything of it. "Ya are somethin', Bonney. I ain't too sure I'd call it a gentleman, but ya are somethin' a'right."

"I'll take what I can get." He smirked, watching her intently for a moment. Finally, he nodded his head to the bowl of stew in his hand. "Now, ya got Doc all in a tizzy 'cause ya left without eatin'. He's mighty worried 'bout you, ya know." Billy held out the bowl in hand to her.

"Oh?" Again, her brow rose. Despite everything, Doc still was looking out for her. "He's always been concerned 'bout me." She took the bowl and eyed the stew. "Guess I can't complain that I got at least one person lookin' out fer m' wellbein'."

"He ain't the only one. I've noticed ya ain't been eatin' much." The blue eyed boy nodded again. "Eat. Get yer strength back. We'll need that fiesty hellcat of a temper ya got. Keeps me on m' toes." He joked and winked at her.

The blond's amusement made her lips twitch a little before she shook her head. "I'll be fine... This ain't the worst injury I've ever received. Nor was the one I got when ya first met me."

Billy's curiosity got the better of him, "then what was?" He wanted to ask her more, about what had brought on her nightmare, but figured now wasn't a good time.

A deep sigh escaped her lips and she tilted her head to look at him, "maybe after I heal from this wound, I'll tell ya." Despite her sigh, her eyes were glinting with a mixture of mirth and mischievousness.

Chuckling, Billy nodded grateful to see that fire back in her eyes. It wasn't anger either, but that wild tenacity and grit he liked so much about her. "Fair enough." He turned to walk away causing Kristal to raise both brows. "I'll leave ya be, since ya had wanted ta be alone."

The young woman didn't say anything at first. Billy had surprised her. "Bonney." She called out and he stopped to look back at her. What had she been going to say? Her words seemed lost and instead she just gave a "thanks..." It was pathetic and she knew it.

"It's m' pleasure, Kris. I'm here... If ya ever wanna talk."

To her surprise, she found herself saying, "yeah... Same with you."

Billy nodded and started to walk away again, but paused, "Oh, an' Kris..." When she looked over at him he was at a lost for words for a second. Swallowing, he nodded to her, "I really am sorry, for... causin' ya so much pain. I hope, that one day y'all find it in your heart ta forgive this reckless fool." He didn't wait for her to say anything, just hurried on his way, leaving her speechless.

*********

It took another day before the Regulators reached the outskirts of the city of Lincoln. Billy hadn't changed his mind about going after Sheriff Brady, to which both Chavez and Doc remained reluctant and unsure. No amount of persuading could change Billy's mind. Charlie was terrified of the idea while Steve was more indifferent to the whole thing. Only Kristal agreed that Brady needed to be brought down, however, she didn't feel doing it publicly was exactly the smartest idea.

But Billy wanted everyone to watch the man be gunned down for his wrong doing and came up with a half-assed plan. Doc would take the high ground with his rifle, taking point on a roof with the best view of main street. Chavez was to come in riding his horse and back Billy up. Charlie and Steve were to remain hidden until the shooting started, and then take out any and all those who rode with the Ring. And Kristal was told to stay back at their rendezvous point due to her being injured.

The outlaw woman argued to no avail. Billy wasn't about to let her join them because of her injury. He already felt bad enough, he didn't need her hurt or worse killed. Their little discussion from the other night had made things a little better between them, but he still wasn't going to be responsible if she got hurt... again.

"You're going to stay here, Kris! Even if I have to tie your ass to this damn tree." Billy shot back their arguement on going between them. They had been arguing for the better part of that morning and the rest of the boys had grown annoyed by it.

"Ya tie me ta the tree ya better leave me there because when I get free, I won't accidentally slit your throat this time." The woman snarled in return. Sure, she had felt bad when it happened the other day, but now she almost wished she had slit his goddamn throat. Leave her behind! What happened to him wanting her to watch his back?!

"Normally I'd be all too happy to have you watchin' my back!" Billy suddenly shouted as if he read her mind "But I ain't gonna let you go out there an' get yourself killed, Starr! I'd be responsible. And you're hurt! I'd rather ya threaten ta kill me, than you get shot or worse!"

For a moment she was taken aback. His over protectiveness was not something he had been so adamant about before. This was a weird change. "So what?! It ain't that bad. I can still shoot and back y'all up. I ain't gonna sit here and wonder whether the hell ya managed ta get yer idiot selves killed or not." She shrugged, "an' it ain't a threat. It's a warnin'. Last time was an accident... If ya leave me behind, it won't be."

"Ya wouldn't kill me."

"Try me."

"Damnit, Kristal! You ain't going! I'm leading this bunch now! And what I say goes! So, if ya wanna try an' kill me so be it. Wouldn't be the first time!"

That stung. It was true, but that stung. "If ya leave me outta this Bonney, I swear... I'll never fuckin' forgive ya. I cared fer John too! I have this right same as the rest o' ya! Stop bein' so damn bullheaded an' let me come... Or, I'll jus' come anyways, 'cause ya can't keep me here anyhow. No matter what ya do or how hard ya try!"

After around thirty or some odd minutes of them butting heads, it was finally decided that she would end up joining them in town, but remain in the shadows to cover their backs. It was either that or tie her down and the boys figured they didn't want to make her any more angry than she already was.

~~~~~

Hours later, the woman was leaning against a post, her hat low on her head, duster tight around her covering her feminine figure as she waited. She saw Billy across the way, avoiding eye contact with her. Child, she thought for probably the hundredth time since being around him. He certainly acted childish.

Prior to their argument that morning, Billy had tried talking to her multiple times. He was pestering and trying to get her to talk to him, to open up. What part of waiting did he not understand? Then again, half the time she got the feeling he enjoyed getting a rise out of her. So she had grown irritable with him... again --- partially because of the nightmare incident, partially because he had shot her, even though she was starting to see it more of an accident, but mostly because he was trying to get her to open up to him so soon after their conversation, not to mention being over protective and wanting to leave her behind. All of that mixed together was not helping him gain leeway with her.

The man even had the nerve to come to her after their argument and try to talk to her. To see if she wanted to talk and let anything out. Was he crazy?! No, she didn't want to talk! She was angry with him again. When wasn't she, it seemed? So she had told him to "fuck off" and she didn't want to talk to him. His strange behavior was making her wary. She wasn't sure she wanted to discuss anything with him yet or possibly ever. That would mean diving into deep wounds and she didn't want to do that with anyone, least of all the constant annoyance that was William Bonney. Their argument from that morning hadn't helped things at all. She had put up an emotional wall where Billy was concerned and she doubted he would ever get passed it. He had made a crack in it the other night. But now it was reinforced with steel. Leave her behind! Talk about shit?! Hell no!

Movement caught the corner of her eye causing them to narrow. The man Billy sought had just exited the General Store down the road, and was heading slowly towards them talking to a couple deputies. One of Murphy's loyal goons walked with them as well. So far, Brady seemed to be unaware of their presence. Her hand slid to the gun at her waist, hidden beneath her long duster, ready to back Billy up when he made his move.

As she watched the slow pace of the sheriff a gloved hand curled around her. Before she could do anything, it covered her mouth, another arm going around her waist and pulled her back out of sight of the Regulators. She struggled, her hand instinctively reaching for her knife. Even with her injury, Kristal managed to elbow the man in the gut causing a grunt in her ear. The arms loosened some, and she took that moment to grab the wrist that was connected to the hand against her mouth and twisted. Turning, knife in hand, she pushed her attacker against the wall of the building and pressed her knife to their throat, the arm she was holding was pushed firmly against the building.

"I yield, Kris! I yield! C'mon, lass, le'me go." Came a pained but familiar voice. The man lifted his head, tipping back his hat and grinned down at her.

"Wilkes?" Kristal questioned in surprise, recognition lighting her eyes. Stepping back, her mouth slightly agape, she released him.

"Howdy darlin'." The red haired man greeted with a glint in his sky blue gaze. "Long time no see."

Slipping her knife back into it's sheath, Kristal rolled her eyes at the man's greeting. Taking another step back to show the Regulators she was still there keeping a look out like she had promised, the blonde did her best to keep her expression smooth to not raise any alarm. Though, her heart pounded and her mind raced wondering what the hell Jason Wilkes, one of Belle's gang members, was doing there. "Shut the hell up, Wilkes! Yer a damn fool! I could have killed you."

The man scratched at his growing beard and cast his eyes out at the road, noticing where she was looking. "Yeah, I know. But I didnae think yeh'd talk t' me otherwise."

Weighing his words, Kristal tilted her head from side to side."Yer pro'lly right," she relented, but still remained wary of the Irish man. He was one of the few semi-decent outlaws among Belle's gang, but it didn't mean he wasn't there for nefarious means. "Why are ya here, Wilkes? And are there others around?" By others she meant more of Belle's gang.

"Thare be two down at the saloon, one o' which be with a bonny lass. Don't think yeh got much t' worry 'bout from the likes o' him at the moment." The man was grinning again, looking her up and down. "Yeh look good, lass. Different, but good. Is yehr hair longer? Are those new clothes? Dinnae think I've seen yeh wear anythin' so... feminine." His eyes lingered on the little bit of skin showing from her often hidden bosom.

Kristal flashed him an annoyed glance, instantly regretting wearing the cami and corset like vest she had purchased from the Ellis' store. If her other buttoned shirt hadn't been ruined by her blood and missing buttons... "Quit the small talk, Wilkes. Why. Are. You. Here?"

"Ah, c'mon now, Kris. I haven't seen yeh in months. Hell, since last year if yeh wannae get literal. I've missed the only Starr I actually loyke. A little small talk might do yeh an' me some good. Catch up on ol' friends." He waggled his bushy red brows at her when she turned to look at him. "Yeh missed me, I know yeh did."

"Actually, I haven't thought about you once, since I've been gone."

"Ouch. Tha' hurts." The man clutched at his chest making it seem like she had pained his very heart. But he was smirking, even as she gave him that familiar unamused expression he had grown to love. "Think yeh broke me heart."

"Puh-lease," Kris drawled, "like ya got one." Again her eyes rolled and she cast him a glare. "Now, ya gonna tell me why you're here?" Kristal's patience was running thin, especially with knowing what Billy was about to do. "I ain't got time for yer idiocy."

The man sighed at her lack of fun, and glanced over at the sheriff as he drew closer. "Belle an' Sam are a' lookin' for yeh. They t'ought ye t' be dead, but then ol' Hal came an' tol' 'em different. Said he ran inta yeh at tha' shack up at Bluewater Creek."

The woman tensed and shot a look at Wilkes. Damn, she knew leaving Hal alive was a mistake. She hoped the worry that she felt wasn't mirrored in her eyes. "That why yer here? To bring me ta them? How'd they find out where I was?"

Wilkes now mirrored her eye roll, "the papers 'aven't been exactly quiet about yeh an' that Billy Bonney fella. Yeh're his mistress, eh? Never thought I'd see the day Kristal Starr happened t' like a man, let alone not kill 'em." He grinned, "the boss lady don't know where yeh be exactly, only that ye be runnin' 'round the territory." His grin broadened. "If I dinnae see yeh meself, I'd have missed out on yeh'r cheerful disposition."

"Funny, Wilkes." Kris growled her irritation growing at his words. "I ain't Billy's fuckin' mistress." The blonde hissed assertion resounding in her voice. "I can't stand the man." Though, she was grateful to know that Belle didn't know exactly where she was yet.  And she wanted to keep it that way.

"Well, tha's good. Yeh won't care what 'appens t' him then. 'Cause the boss-lady's got plans fer those harborin', befriendin', an' uh... sleepin' with yeh." A spark of something shot through her eyes when he said that, Wilkes noticed. "She ain't happy tha' yeh dinnae come back. An' she seems t' think he's the reason. So, she's plannin' on killin' 'im."

A mixture of emotions crossed Kristal's expression at what Wilkes said. First fear, then irritation, and finally anger and annoyance. "I ain't sleepin' with no one. Least of all him." She swore profusely, her aggravation getting the better of her. "Why the hell does she care so damn much anyway?" It was a rhetorical question. She knew why. But she didn't understand why Belle would go after the boys.

The man shrugged, eyeing the street as a blond man appeared skipping behind the sheriff. "Is he all there?"

Kristal, who was watching Billy as well, raised a brow, her lips parting in concerned confusion. What the hell was he doing? "I ain't entirely sure... I sometimes wonder if his ma dropped him on his head a few too many times... Would certainly make sense considerin'..."

"Am I t' be assumin' that be the Billy the paper's are talkin' about?"

"The one an' only... unfortunately."

"He ain't tall or dark haired." Wilkes pointed out.

"Clearly."

"Yeh're right, I cannae see yeh puttin' up with that odd shit. He's got a screw loose or somethin'. Paper's cannae get nothin' right..."

"Damn, straight." If that weren't the truth, she didn't know what was. "Now ya gonna answer my questions?" Kristal was still watching Billy as she spoke. In truth, she couldn't take her eyes off his bizarre behavior. Still, she needed to keep focused on the man next to her as well. "I'd rather not kill ya Wilkes..."

Wilkes shook his head at the scene at the street before turning his attention back on the feisty blonde. "Look, Kris, I'm here 'cause yeh saved me life a time or two where Belle an' Sam would'a left me for dead. Yeh've always been one o' the good ones in the gang. Trustworthy, loyal, easy on the eyes." When she glared at him, the man chuckled and continued. "Yehr ma...."

"She ain't m' ma" Kristal snapped, her tongue lashing like a whip. "She's Belle. She stopped bein' m' ma a long time ago. 'Sides it aint like she birthed me. I ain't nothin' more than an asset to her. A damn tool... A weapon an' a means to an end. She ain't ever loved me. Not like a ma should. So don't call her that."

Pressing his lips together, Wilkes shook his head hearing the bitterness in her voice. Kristal was Belle's daughter, off limits to all, but it didn't mean those in the gang hadn't tried to catch her eye from time to time. "whatever the hell yeh wanna call her, then... She wants yeh back. Alive at least. Anyone hurts or kills yeh, they die a horrible death. The gang ain't been the same. Belle's gone a little off 'er rocker. Keeps going on 'bout how she lost a good one an' she should have kept yeh on a shorter leash. An' Sam..." He paused as he saw movement out of the corner of his eye. Turning, his brows rose in complete disbelief watching the blond man throw his hat over the Sheriff's head and from this distance they could hear him call out.

"Top o' the mornin' t' ye girls."

And the shooting began cutting Wilkes off completely.

Kristal immediately pulled her gun, eyes watching the scene while keenly aware of Wilkes beside her. She wasn't too sure about the man. Who was he loyal to? Belle and Sam? "Don't care nothin' 'bout Sam. He can kiss m' ass. An' Belle's always tried to keep me on a short leash. The only reason I got away this time was because I was shot an' escapin' the damn law. The same law Belle decided ta leave me ta deal with, while she hightailed it outta there. She didn't care then. So, why now? God damn! I was told she thought I was dead. Wish she still did." Shaking her head, her brows furrowed, "I ever see Hal again, I'll kill the bastard."

"No need... Belle killed 'im." Wilkes shuddered remembering the sight. "Tortured 'im for lettin' yeh get away. See what I mean 'bout she bein' off 'er rocker."

Chavez rounded the corner at that moment, astride his horse. A soft smile flickered at her lips seeing him molded to the horses side, using the beast as a decoy and shield. He threw a knife and then caught sight of her. She lifted her finger to her head in a salute to let him know she was fine as he rode by.

"Yeh're fond o' 'em." He noticed her smile and instantly knew.

"Who?" Kristal asked feigning ignorance.

"Don't give me that, lass... them... those lads. What do they call 'emselves... the papers said it... Reg-somethin'."

"Regulators." The woman clarified succinctly and continued, "I dunno 'bout fond, but they're a decent sort I guess... Better'n those in Belle's gang."

"Should I take offense?"

"Dunno. Depends on where yer loyalties lay Wilkes." Kristal turned to him after seeing Doc on the building across the way and Charlie and Steve rush out. Billy was still popping Murphy men off as they showed their faces.

"I ain't here t' take yeh t' Belle, Kris. I'm riskin' it all t' warn yeh." Wilkes shook his head and reached out to grip her arm. Turning her to face him, he noticed her wince sharply in pain. "Yeh're hurt... Who the hell hurt yeh?" A deep sense of protection flickered across the red-head's features.

"It doesn't matter, Wilkes. Leave it alone." Kristal growled pulling her arm out of his grip. "Ya know I don't like ta be touched."

The man frowned, eyeing her. His gaze surveyed her features before lowering to check her over. "If they hurt yeh, lass..."

"I said leave it alone. 'Sides, I can take care o' m'self. Now d'ya mind gettin' on with what ya were sayin' 'bout Belle? I got shit ta take care of."

Across the street, Charlie and Steve's guns clicked empty and they both looked at each other and then ran back the way they came. Kristal knew they were heading to their rendezvous point. She was sure Doc and Chavez were heading there now as well. Billy was staring at Brady, who was now crawling trying to get the rifle he dropped. Kristal watched as the boy stood above the fallen man, the barrel of his gun aiming directly at the Sheriff's head.

"Reap the whirlwind Sheriff Brady." Kristal heard Billy growl, his hatred penetrating the air. She watched as the blond man prepared to end the man's life. For some reason Kristal felt a sudden urge to run after him and stop him. Before she could move, the boy growled again, "reap it!" The gun fired and the sheriff fell dead. Kristal's brows drew together, a sense of foreboding filled her, frozen to the spot.

"The whole county's gonnae be after him now... Hell, maybe the whole state." Wilkes voice broke through her reverie.

Turning to the red haired man, she eyed him, realizing the sudden depth of what Billy had just caused. "Shit... this is why ya don't do it public. With all the shootin', had he killed him from cover, no one would know." Kristal shook her head, gritting her teeth. "Damn it, Bonney... Now they're all gonna be after ya... An' the others too..." Before she could say anything else, more Murphy men poured from the buildings. Billy turned as they began to fire at him. Lifting her gun, she prepared to help the man, when a hand settled on her arm.

"Kris, yeh shoot, they'll come fer yeh too."

The woman shook the hand off of her, "remember what I said 'bout touchin' me?" And she fired, felling one and hitting another. The Murphy men turned in surprise and started to split up. Kristal didn't wait. She continued to fire. Out of the corner of her eye, she watched as Billy rushed behind the building where his horse was hitched. Knocking two more men to the ground, Kristal backed away. "You..." she growled to Wilkes, "meet me at Capitan by nightfall. I want to know what you know. An' if you don't come alone, I'll kill you an' anyone else with you."

Wilkes tried to protest, but Kristal was already off. "Might wanna get outta here, Wilkes. They might think it was you doin' the shootin'." Kristal flashed a smirk his way before swinging onto the black horse at the end of the alley. The red-head swore and dipped into a side building, vowing to meet the fiery young Starr-woman that evening.