The next morning dawned bright and cool. Once again the warm reds and oranges of the sun's rays mixed with the cool blues of the dawning day. The mornings were chilly, but as the sun drew higher in the sky, it gradually became warmer. It still left a chill in the air, even at the hottest point of the day and it was reaching the end of spring. Soon, the summer months would come and the desert plains would be a sweltering sauna.

The night had been somewhat chilly but peaceful to the Regulators that had managed to get a full evening of sleep. Only a couple hours after Billy had finally fallen asleep, two of the other Regulators started to stir. Charlie and Chavez were the first up. Both boys had slept rather well and woke quite hungry and so decided to start preparing for breakfast. Chavez caught some sage hens, plucked and prepped them to cook on the fire.

Charlie moved around quietly gathering supplies to throw in a pot for another stew, which, for now, was easiest with their meager provisions. The boy also managed to get a kettle brewing coffee on some hot rocks near the fire. The strong nutty aroma waking both the Mexican-Indian and the curly haired Charlie even more.

As Charlie stirred the pot of stew, he glanced over at the still sleeping Kristal and then over to Chavez. He wasn't sure if he should even broach what was on his mind with Chavez. He had noticed his friends complicated emotions towards their blonde amiga. Still, these thoughts were eating at him. Finally he couldn't hold it in any longer, blurting out, "hey, Chavez... did ya notice Kris, Billy and Doc disappeared last night."

Chavez frowned, his dark gaze flashing up to the curly haired boy before turning to the sleeping trio, confused skepticism in his eyes. "What do you mean? They are right there, Charlie."

The curly haired boy shook his head, a frown on his anxious ridden face. "Got up to... Uh... relieve myself and I saw the three of them riding out of camp."

Dark brows furrowed trying to figure out what they possibly could have been doing. "They left? To where?" Turning his attention back on Charlie, there was questioning in his eyes. "When did they come back?"

Charlie shook his head and let out a sigh. This information had been weighing on him. It felt good to get it off his chest. "Don't know. But..." he drawled out thoughtfully, "they came back a few hours later, I think. It was still dark. Billy was loud as hell. He and Kris were injured, I noticed. But I guess none too bad. Doc seemed fine. He went straight to bed." Here he shrugged, trying to understand what they could have been doing. "Billy and Kris stayed up late... well, till early mornin' when the sky started to brighten, to clean their wounds. That's why they're still sleepin', I expect."

Chavez glanced over at the sleeping figure of Kristal and then over to Billy and Doc. He didn't like knowing that Kristal had been harmed in any way. Where had Billy and Doc been? Why hadn't they protected her? What the hell had happened? And more importantly, "Where the hell could they have gone?" Chavez questioned aloud.

"Like I said, I dunno." Charlie shrugged again not realizing Chavez had been voicing his private thoughts aloud and didn't really expect an answer from him. The nervous boy then pointed in the direction he had seen them ride off in. "Somewhere that a'way. Thought it kinda strange... that they left without telling us. Think we should be worried 'bout it?"

Chewing on the inside of his lip, mulling over what he had been told, he shook his head. "I'll talk to Doc about it when he wakes up. But I don't think so. Something bothered Chiquita yesterday. Maybe..." He drew the word out recalling how quiet Kristal had been prior to them stopping for the evening, "whatever they did, they took care of it..."

At least that was his hope. His gaze lingered on the sleeping form of the blonde woman, "though, I am deeply concerned about what injuries they might have gotten. And how they got them in the first place." As well as why they weren't asked to come and help too, but Chavez didn't say all his thoughts aloud.

Before they could say anything more, a groan escaped the sleeping woman's lips followed by a startled gasp. Without warning, Kristal bolted upright, knife in hand. Her eyes were wide and brows furrowed slightly, almost as if she were afraid of something or someone. It was not an expression the two boys watching had seen on her before. Seeing her so vulnerable, in a fearful state was not something either boy had ever thought possible to be on Kristal's features. She was always so sure of herself, confident and strong. The two boys glanced at each other wondering what had possibly caused that expression over her features.

"Shit..." she grumbled after a moment, blinking away whatever had jolted her awake and ran a hand through her hair.

"Chiquita?" Chavez called out to her, concern in his eyes and voice. He stood, about to approach her but paused seeing the knife in her hand. He wasn't so foolish to pull the same stunt that Billy had done. The reckless boy was still sporting a mark on his neck from his own foolishness.

"Kris, you okay?" Came Charlie's softer tone, his hand reaching out to her, as if to assist or comfort her, even though she was too far away from him.

"I... uh..." Kristal drawled out and shook her head, her gaze turning to the boys, not quite seeing them yet. Her face was a bit pale and they noticed the cut along her cheek.

"What happened to you, Chiquita? You're hurt?" The half breed questioned, her nightmare pushed aside for the moment to address his concern for her well being instead. Chavez's frown deepened as his gaze searched her face before trailing over her body, noticing the bandages along her arm and the bandana around her neck. Charlie had stated she had been injured, but seeing her injuries caused him to want to safeguard her from whatever she had gone through.

"How'd ya get cut, Kris?" Charlie was now standing, questioning her injuries, too. His concern for her trumped his worry about her nightmare as well. The curly haired boy was about to approach her, the ladle he was using to stir the stew still in his hand.

"I'm fine. Little mishap last night. Took care of a threat. Nothin' ta worry 'bout now." Kristal waved aside their concern not wanting them close. Her words were swift and short, straight to the point. Her fingers fiddled with the bandana around her throat, feeling a bit awkward. Shuffling off her bed roll, she stood and stretched not realizing both men were watching her carefully.

Another was also casually watching and listening to her. He had been awake for some time just listening to the conversation going on around him. His hat covered his pale blue eyes, but hearing Kristal jolt awake had caused the blond man to tip the brim up to watch her for a moment. He wanted to see her features, to make sure she really was alright. His mouth remained clamped shut even as he wondered about these nightmares she had been having lately. It concerned him. His gaze swept over to Chavez and Charlie before he tilted his hat back down to once again appear asleep.

"You sure you're okay?" Charlie, however, wasn't about to let it go. His gaze had trailed over her, worry on his face. He felt like he wasn't being a good friend if he didn't make sure she was okay. There was blood spattered all over her and the bandages had caught his attention as well. "You got blood all over you..."

"It ain't mine." At least most of it wasn't hers. She didn't feel like explaining everything to them at the moment. Maybe later. Maybe. Tilting her gaze down to her disheveled clothes, Kristal swore inwardly. She didn't realize how much blood had splattered over her. Her clothes were covered in dirt, grime, and blood. She hated being dirty. The only clean clothes she had left was an old worn button up shirt that was two sizes too big, a vest, and the pants she had gotten from the Ellis'. It would have to do. At least she had her duster to keep her warm. "Ya makin' food, Charlie?"

The question caught Charlie off guard. The abrupt change of subject made him stumble in answer, "I... uh, yeah. Chavez got a sage hen this morning. Makin' a stew with it. Got coffee brewin' too."

Kristal's gaze landed on Chavez, nodding her approval, "nice." She then moved to her saddle bag, shifted through it before nodding and slinging the leather satchel over her shoulder, "I'm gonna go get cleaned up before we eat. I'll be back shortly. Save me some o' that coffee too, if ya would?" Her eyes slid over to Billy's prone figure, his black hat resting over his eyes, and shook her head before walking off.

Both Charlie and Chavez looked at each other curiously. What had that been about? Did something transpire between the two blondes that they didn't know about?

"Sure thing, Kris! Be... uh... careful!" Charlie called out to her retreating figure. He sighed as she waved a hand to him as she walked away. At least he knew she heard him. His chocolate brown gaze turned to Billy before sliding to Chavez, concern etched on his face. Something had happened and it clearly had something to do with Billy. But how much, he wasn't sure.

The Mexican-Indian was thinking the same thing as his friend. It worried Chavez in more ways than one. He still wasn't sure what to think about Kristal. He liked her, that much he knew. But how much? Could he overlook certain things, like her apparent blood lust? How she liked to torture her prey? And what about all the enemies she apparently had? Would she ever be free of it all, like he wanted to be. It was a lot to think about.

It was then Chavez realized that she never answered his question. What the hell had happened the night before that caused her to undergo such injuries? It bothered him that she had trusted Doc and Chivato, of all people, to go with her to deal with whatever this so-called threat was. Why hadn't she asked for his help? Didn't she trust him? Did she really trust Chivato more? A pang went through his heart and he lowered his head until he saw something move out of the corner of his eye.

It was Billy. Of course it was, Chivato. The rival blond was vying for her attention the same as Chavez was. Seeing Billy sit up and stare in the direction that Kristal went off in, he frowned. Billy was a wild card and he made him nervous when it came to Kristal. He then realized, with much chagrin, how similar his Chiquita and Chivato were in a number of ways. Both were wild and carefree, stubborn as hell too, also dangerous and had devil-may-care attitudes. Both also had numerous enemies. The biggest difference, however, was, Kristal was cautious, careful and Billy was reckless.

Not at all surprised, Chavez watched Billy stand and start off in the direction Kristal had disappeared in. "Where do you think you are going, Chivato?"

Hearing Chavez, Billy grimaced inwardly and let out an annoyed sigh, "gotta take a leak. That okay with you?"

"Leave her alone, Chivato," Chavez felt the need to warn, not believing him. "You take too many chances with her."

"As opposed to you who take none," he snorted, annoyed with Chavez's lack of gumption. "If you want something, Chavez, ya gotta go after it. Or someone else might snatch it right outta your grasp." Billy stared down Chavez, issuing an unsaid challenge.

"She is not some object to be taken. Chiquita is a complex but skilled woman-" Chavez began but was cut off.

"I know what she is, Chavez." Billy's annoyed tone grew thicker and he rolled his eyes. "Kris is the most remarkable woman I have ever met. She deserves someone who ain't afraid of her. Who can handle that wildness not tame it outta her. Who can handle all aspects of her, the good and," Billy smirked before continuing, "the more frustrating parts. Even that darker side she tries ta hide from us. She deserves the best, Chavez."

Billy's smirk disappeared and once again sighed, this time akin to forlorn loneliness. He wasn't too sure he was the best for her, but he wasn't going to give Chavez any advantage over him. "I know it's a long shot in hell. But I ain't gonna just back down neither." If anything, Billy had come to realize he cared pretty deeply about the fiery blonde. "If she truly meant somethin' to ya... ya can't continue ta stand back in the shadows. She deserves better'n that."

Baby blues glanced at Charlie noticing how his attention was on the pot of food he was cooking, but Billy knew the boy was keenly alert to their conversation. He shook his head and turned his focus back on Chavez. "I ain't gonna sit back, Chavez. Otherwise, one day she might be long gone an' you an' me, well... we'll be left all alone. And..." he took a breath as if what he was about to say pained him. "So will she. And I don't like the idea of that happenin', least of all to her."

"I will not push her into something she is not ready or willing to do. It will only push her away. She has done it to you many times now," Chavez pointed out.

"So? It hasn't stopped me. Ever think maybe she needs that push? She don't seem to grasp the fact that people care about her. Maybe she needs to be pushed out of her comfort zone just a little to see what others have to offer." Billy paused remembering their conversation from the night before. He had made some headway and he wanted to continue to push his luck and try for more. From what he learned, Kristal sometimes got lost in thought and spoke those thoughts aloud. He would press it only because he knew she needed it and he hungered to know more about the mystery that surrounded her.

A brow rose on Chavez's face. There was more that Billy wasn't telling him and it bothered him. What the hell had happened the night before, Chavez silently wondered again. Instead of questioning the boy on it, he just shook his head, considering Chivato's words.

"What's stopping you, Chavez?" Billy didn't want Chavez's competition, but the Mexican-Indian man was frustrating him. He felt Kristal needed someone to be honest and upfront. Chavez, however, held back and Billy didn't understand why. "I couldn't care less if you go after her or not." That was a bald face lie, but Billy knew he had an image to uphold. "Don't mean I can't, though. But you're doing Kris a disservice by second guessing your feelings an' playin' like ya like her. If anything... I think that does her more harm than good."

The wild blond was done with this conversation. Not waiting for a reply, Billy nodded his head before rushing off down the path that Kristal had taken.

Chavez was left frowning. For once Billy had made perfect sense. What was holding him back? The darkness that roamed the depths of her heart, he was sure. As well as the shadows that followed her around. But would it always be that way? Could she leave that behind? He wasn't sure. It pained him that he kept questioning himself and his feelings for Kristal. He did like her. More than he could truly admit. But could he get passed the dread that filled him at the memory of her being so cold and heartless the evening they met Wilkes. Was that a side of her that would forever be in the shadows lurking? He had a great deal to consider if so.

A snort came from one of the bed rolls. A head popped up, hair disheveled and standing up at the side. "Couldn't you all be quiet? Woke me up in the middle of a good dream." Steve grumbled wiping spittle from the corner of his mouth. "I was dreamin' of this gal back in Juarez. She had the biggest..."

"Shut up Steve! Nobody wants to hear your dream." Charlie snapped, annoyed. "I need some more firewood. Since you're awake, you can go get some."

"God damnit, why me..."

*****

Walking away from their campsite, Billy shook his head. Chavez was a fool for not making a move on Kristal. But then again, it wasn't like he was doing any better either. But the difference was, Kristal had only recently stopped hating him. At least, she said she didn't hate him anymore, right? If he tried anything, he did worry she might retract that and end up hating him again. And if that happened, it may end up permanent. He kicked a rock and sighed. How could he get her to like him more? What could he do to appeal to her? She was a hard nut to crack. He smirked then, but if he got through that outer shell she had, he had a feeling it would be so very worth it.

It was then he heard a voice. A melody weaving through the air carried by the breeze. Was that singing? It was a strange song. Something in a different language. Indian was his guess, but he couldn't tell which tribe, not that he knew much about the natives anyway. He didn't exactly have the best opinion of them due to a run in he had back before his time with Tunstall and he honestly didn't want to deal with them again. Not to mention the only Indians he knew around the area were the Mescaleros and they weren't normally friendly.

Did that mean there were natives nearby? The voice was certainly feminine. His brows furrowed as he tried to decide what to do. It then hit him, Kristal was out there somewhere. What if she came into contact with one of these Indians? Crouching down, he slowly followed the sound. It was a soft melody, lyrical and sweet sounding. If he had to guess it was either a love song or a lullaby.

Following the rise, the sound grew gradually louder but no less sweet and Billy found himself enjoying the tune. The voice was rather pretty, even if he didn't know the words and might end up getting scalped if he got too close. But he had to know if there was any danger nearby. Coming to a halt at the edge of the rise, not far below were a few more hidden pools of the hot springs. Some juniper bushes and pinion trees surrounded the pools making it hard to see from his height and distance. Whoever was singing was on the other side of the foliage. However, he didn't see anyone else. Whoever was singing appeared to be alone. A lone native woman perhaps? That was strange, for a woman to be out in the wilderness alone.

Determined, Billy carefully made his way down the ridge and grew even closer. The sound of the all too feminine voice was clear and Billy now found himself drawn to it. It pulled him forward as if he were in a trance of some kind. He had to know who it was that was singing it. He only hoped that he didn't startle them and they called out to any braves that might be nearby.

The raspy lyrical sound was hypnotizing and he was transfixed by it. As he rounded one of the pinion trees, the blond jolted to a stop. His heart nearly leapt to his throat; his stomach started doing funny little flips at the sight that befell him. Only a few yards away, was a very blonde, very naked, and very wet Kristal. The woman was shoulder deep in one of the steaming hot spring pools. Well, at least he didn't have to worry about any raging natives. But somehow, he feared this might be much worse than dealings with angry Indians.

Unable to move, even though he knew he should, he stared in disbelief. This was not something he expected to find. His eyes trailed to a rock to find her clothes gently laid out, her saddle bag hooked to a nearby branch.

Wait... Realization then dawned on his features and a grin slowly started to appear on his face. It was Kristal that had been the one singing!? Glancing around, he saw nary a soul, except for her. His eyes found their way back to her and he continued to stare in shock. His mouth grew slack as she started the song again, her voice lower this time.

The tune seemed to have grown sadder. What was this song? What did it mean? And where had she learned it? Did she know what it meant or was she just singing it because it sounded pretty? All these questions ran through his mind as his eyes slid over her bare shoulders and then downwards... He blinked realizing he shouldn't be staring, but he couldn't help it. She seemed so vulnerable and her flesh appeared so soft and silky. From this distance, he could see that her injuries from the night before were healing nicely. Without thinking he took a step closer and then another. When he realized what he was doing he jerked himself to a stop. If she caught him like this, surely she would be angry. He was tempting fate and he knew it.

To his relief, she hadn't noticed him yet. He needed to turn, to back away before she realized he was there. And yet, he was frozen to the spot. He had never seen so much bare flesh on her. God damn did she look... feminine. He couldn't see much more then the top curvature of her breasts, but shit! Her clothes hid such a shapely and fine tuned body --- at least what he could see of it.

Wait, what was he thinking?! He needed to get out of there before---.

"Oh m' God! What the hell! Bonney!?"

Kristal suddenly shrieked, one arm wrapping around her breasts pressing them close and hiding as much as she could from his sight even though they were mostly underwater and hidden from his view anyway. "What the hell are ya doin' here?"

Snapping out of his shock, a cool smirk switched over his features. The fire in her eyes sparking him to life. "I could ask you the same thing, but..." He gestured towards the pool.

"What the hell's it look like?" Her tone was bordering on vehemence. "Bonney! Stop starin' at me like that!" Kristal's cheeks were a healthy pink color from the heat of the water as well as the anger making its way over her face. She slid lower in the water in the hopes to hide more from him. Only her neck and head were visible above the steaming water that caused her face to glisten.

"Like what? I cain't see nothin' ya wish ta hide an' I don't see why it matters none? It ain't nothin' I ain't seen before." Only it was, he had never seen her nakedness before. However, he was quickly growing amused by her fiery outrage and indignation.

"Course it ain't." She grumbled, running her free hand down her face. The steam mixed with the water from her hand caused her skin to gleam in the sunlight. "It matters ta me. If ya were a gentleman, ya'd turn around and leave."

"Well, I am a gentleman." Billy was still smirking, his amusement growing at the redness of her features and her sparkling skin - what he could see of it at least. He then made a grand show of turning around by giving her a low bow, sweeping his hand out and then toward his waist before twisting so his back was on her. It was a good thing he trusted her completely. "So I'll turn around 'cause ya asked so nicely. But I ain't leavin'."

"An' why the hell not?" Kristal was annoyed and the clipped tone of her voice attested to her irritation.

"Cause I ain't gonna leave a bathin' woman alone in the wilderness." Billy let out a soft sigh. The morals his mother had instilled in him deeply ingrained into his heart. "Ya got wild animals, predators that might come an' get'cha. Then ya got all them assholes out lookin' fer us an' maybe even some Injuns. An' after what we dealt with last night, I'll feel better keepin' a watchful eye out. So, I'll jus' stand right here 'till yer done."

"Goddamnit Bonney! Yer so damn frustratin'! I don't need ya protectin' me."

"Why, 'cause I'm lookin' out fer ya?" He was frowning now, growing frustrated with her attitude, "ya say ya don't need protectin', but I ain't takin' chances. On my good conscience, I could not leave ya out here alone, weaponless, an' naked as a newborn babe. I was raised-"

A knife suddenly lodged itself in a nearby pine tree, only a couple feet to his left, cutting off his words. His brows rose, and a smirk lit his face. Once again she had proved him wrong. He still wasn't going to go anywhere though. So what if she had her weapons, she was still naked as a newborn lamb. He had some integrity left and he refused to leave her.

"Who says I'm weaponless. I ain't stupid. But, seein' as yer gonna be so damn stubborn, I swear ta ya, if I catch ya turnin' 'round Bonney, I'll cut those pretty blue eyes o' yers out." Her words held a vehemence in her threat, a promise she would make good on.

The threat sent a thrill through him just like every other threat she had made. So far they had all been empty towards him. This was something he would need to ponder later. "I am a man of my word, Querida. I won't turn around. Like I was about to say, I was raised better'n that." Even though he desperately wished to do just that --- turn around and see that glorious... He had to shake his head and focus on the last bit of what she said. She liked his eyes?! Well, maybe he was getting somewhere.

A grin bloomed on his face at the underhanded compliment, "ya think my eyes are pretty? Why thank ya kindly. That's probably the nicest thing ya've ever said ta me."

"It'll be the only thing, if ya ain't careful." He heard her grumble. She then added with a low snarl, "why the hell are ya even out this way? Did ya follow me?"

Trying not to chuckle, even as he envisioned those dark golden brows furrowing and her sparking green eyes narrowing on him. "No, I didn't follow ya." The smirk he had on his face could be heard in his voice. "I was takin' a walk an' I heard singin'. Thought it was... well, someone else. Never would 'a guessed it was you. Gotta say, I was rather surprised ta hear such a lovely sound out in the middle of nowhere. And that... that someone was you singin' it. What was that song ya were singin' anyway?"

Silence ensued for about a minute. Kris wasn't sure if she believed him. Did he really just happen to hear her as he was walking along and decided spur of the moment to follow the sound? And where the hell was he even walking to? However his compliment and question ended up throwing her off kilter.

Shaking her head, Kristal had to unjumble her thoughts in order to speak and even then her voice sounded uncertain. "I uh... don't normally sing in front o' folk. Had I known ya were in listenin' range I'd a' stopped."

The tone of her voice had softened some. She sounded confused and it amused Billy. Apparently he had that effect on her. He liked knowing that.

A force of hot air blew through her lips, another sigh, though this one held a hint of hesitation in it."It ain't really a song. More a kind o' love story told to the young men and women o' the Black Creek tribe. I like ta sing it... Sounds nicer that way...."

Billy's brow rose, "love story? An injun love story? And ya turned it into a song? Don't tell me yer a romantic at heart, Kris."

The water splashed behind him as she gave an abrupt shrug. "I like the story. It's sweet. Even if it is tragic. What love should be, I guess."

A brow rose even more. So she did have a little bit of a romantic side. Interesting. This would need to be explored. Though at a later time because he knew she would shut down if he pushed it. Instead he questioned the story. "Tell me about it?"

"Seriously?!" Kristal sounded exasperated. The water splashed again as she ran both her hands through wet hair. "All I wanted was some peace an' quiet an' now ya want me ta tell ya the meanin' of a native story?"

"Por favor, Querida?"

"Will ya stop calling me that. I ain't yer darlin'!" Her irritation was palpable.

"No, but ya are a darlin' lass." He wanted to wink at her, a hint of his Irish roots edging into his words. He also wanted to tease her more but she grew silent. As much as she wanted him to stop calling her that, he refused. Chavez had his term of endearment for her and he would do the same. "At least I don't call ya Chiquita."

A frown pulled at Billy's mouth when she continued to remain silent. He had half a mind to turn around to make sure she was okay but instead waited. Whether she wanted to believe it or not, he was a gentleman. After an even more lengthy period of silence, Billy picked up a piece of wood and pulled out a knife from his boot. He liked to whittle to pass the time and if she wasn't going to talk to him anymore...

Leaning against the tree that still had her knife sticking out of it, he frowned a little, disappointed that Kristal apparently had gone silent. If the silence ensued too long he was bound to turn. The reason he had stayed in the first place was to make sure she was okay, wasn't it?

The quiet was beginning to unnerve him though. He hated the quiet, which was often why he talked so much. Sure there were birds in the trees and the breeze blowing the leaves, but it wasn't enough for him. Puckering his lips, Billy began to whistle a soft tune, to keep the quiet at bay.

However, Billy had no idea the struggle Kristal was internally dealing with. He had stunned her and made her grow lost in thought. A part of her was debating on whether to tell Billy the meaning of the song. While the other part wondered about these sobriquet Chavez, and now Billy, were giving her.

It wasn't the first time she had been called pet names or given a new name altogether. Ace had called her Kitten and it rubbed her wrong every damn time. And the native tribe she had once been a part of used to call her Ashanti-kee-la or just Ashanti, which meant Fire Eyes. And, if she were being honest neither Chavez or Billy's terms bothered her. They were harmless. In fact, she had to bite her lip to keep from laughing when Billy bitterly spoke of Chavez's term of endearment for her. He sounded bitter and jealous to which she found amusing. Billy did have a point, though Chavez's was still sweet. Yet, Billy's made her feel strange. Like he had an ulterior meaning behind it and not just being friendly. It was odd. It made her feel odd.

Minutes ticked by; Kristal was carefully watching Billy out of the corner of her eye, when the woman finally let out a frustrated breath. Fine. She didn't feel like spending the time to tell the whole story, but she could at least give him the gist of it. Maybe it would pass the time while she finished washing up.

"Since yer so damn persistent... an' annoyin' too. An' I know ya won't leave me alone about it..."

The blond man chuckled about to contradict her accusation, but Kristal went on not about to be interrupted. "An' since I don't feel like bein' harassed about it later..." Kristal paused, considering her words carefully. Licking her lips, she finally added, "it's about coyote an' a woman o' the People."

"People?" Billy questioned curiously. His whistling had stopped as soon she spoke up again. A smirk had graced his lips at how well she knew him. But he was far more curious about her story. His gaze remained on the piece of wood in his hand, attentive to her voice. Every inflection of the melody of her words, he caught, an image forming in his mind of these so called People.

"The People o' the native tribe I know. Some tribes think o' Coyote as a sort o' guide or trickster... But the Black Creek tribe thinks that he teaches us valuable lessons."

"Ah, and this song is one of them?" He winced realizing he was interrupting her tale.

"Story. That I like ta sing," Kristal corrected. "Yeah." She took a deep breath trying to control her irritable frustrations. "Now ya gonna let me explain? Cause I'll be all too happy ta drop it instead."

"Oh no, please... continue."

"Hmmm..." Kristal grumbled once again frowning. After a shake of her head, she started the story again. "So like I said, it's about Coyote an' a woman o' the People. Coyote didn't think the People had compassion any longer. He felt their hearts had been hardenin'. Turnin' cold toward everything. They we're unkind to the plants, the animals, an' even ta each other. Normally a trickster, Coyote found himself in need o' help an' no one would give him aid. He came across two women an' a lone man o' the People. The first woman feared him. The second tried attacking him. An' lastly, the man, tried ta use him an' capture him fer his own wicked means. They showed him nothin' but cruelty and fear. About to give up an' wounded from bein' attacked he came across one more woman, this time by accident. Though, he was leery now, he tried to trick her into giving him food. The woman did not fall for his trickery. Instead she showed him kindness and love where he thought there was none."

A sigh pulled from her lips, before she continued, "Coyote had lost hope. But this woman's kindness had renewed it and without realizing, Coyote had fallen in love with her."

Again she paused, biting her lip. She didn't really feel like going into detail about the tragic part of the story. "She had fallen in love with Coyote as well. Their love was strong, but it was not favored by the People. Tragedy struck. A great monster came, attacking the People. They, in turn, begged for Coyote's help, but after what they had done to him, he didn't want to help them."

"Can't say I blame him." Billy muttered, shaving off another piece of wood.

Pressing her lips together, Kristal shook her head. "However, fer the woman he loved, he intervened, 'cause she still cared 'bout her People. The great monster was brutal, it... attacked Coyote, knockin' him down. The great beast was about ta kill Coyote. However, the woman who had Coyote's heart, saw what the monster was about ta do an' grabbed a handful o' rocks an' started throwing 'em at the terrifyin' beast. The monster went after her instead. They came ta the edge of a tall mountain. When the beast saw that she was only a weak woman it laughed at her an' turned ta go back to finish off Coyote. She was no threat ta him, or so the beast thought. Not about ta let Coyote die, she threw herself at the monster an' they fell over the edge o' the mountain. In shock an' grief, Coyote mourned the woman who had captured his heart. The woman had loved him so much, she gave up her own life ta save him. Seeing one o' their own sacrifice themselves fer love, the People, at last, saw how their hearts had hardened. They mourned the loss o' the woman, alongside Coyote. An' Coyote, learned what true love was, at long last. An' in losin' her, he finally could see that there was still hope fer the People. That even in the unexpected there is still light an' hope an' ta never give up on it."

Billy nodded, expecting her to continue on. When she didn't he blinked. Wait? Was that it? He was expecting more, especially since she had piqued his interest with this story-song of hers. He wanted to know more, in detail. "Come on Kris, there's more to it than that... There's gotta be. What caused Coyote ta need help in the first place? How an' why did Coyote fall in love? Just 'cause the woman fell in love with him? How did the woman fall in love with Coyote? Ain't Coyote an animal? Did the woman fall in love with an animal? I wanna know more. What happened to the People? What happened to Coyote after? That can't be all! There's gotta be more..."

Shrugging, the water swirled around her shoulders as she scrubbed at her arms. "Maybe... But I ain't about to go into explainin' the whole story in detail. It'll take too much time an' I ain't plannin' on sittin' in this pool all damn day." Shaking her head, water droplets falling from her hair, she eyed Billy. "I answered what the song said... the story's got a lot more depth in it... an' tragedy. But I ain't goin' inta it right now."

Billy had to bite his lip to keep from chuckling at the thought of her sitting, bathing in the water... all day... Shit! His mind was running away from him again. Instead he shifted it back to her story. He was disappointed that she wasn't going to explain further. Then again, he had an idea... "Fine. But will you explain it later? Bet the guys would like hearing it. Ya know Charlie. He likes a good story." Maybe if he included the others she would be more apt to tell the complete and detailed story.

"I dunno, Billy. I'll think about it." Kristal let out a breath, knowing he was right about Charlie. He would like the story. Doc probably would too. "The stories of the tribe are kinda sacred. Supposed ta be told ta teach and guide the People."

"So, you can teach an' guide us then." Billy shrugged, shaking his head. "I don't really got nothin' against the natives 'round here or anywhere." Not really. Even though he didn't have the best dealings with Indians, he didn't wish them ill. He just would keep far away from them if he could help it. Especially after they had taken nearly everything he owned, his weapons, his money, his horse, hell even his boots. They had left him for dead too. He shook his head, annoyed at the surfacing memory. It had been years ago, but it was hard to forget. He sighed, pushing it back once more. "They got it hard, I get that. I respect their determination and fire. But, I'd still rather not tussle with them. So, if I can learn a thing or two all the better." He then added with a smirk, "sides, we're your People now, ain't we Kris? We're your tribe."

The blonde eyed him curiously from over the rim of the hot springs pool. Why was it he always, somehow, managed to make a good point. Though she wasn't sure about that last bit of what he said. Her People? Were they her People? Could she see herself sticking around with them, if they ever finished this whole justice for Tunstall thing? "I... uh... I'll think about it." She repeated again, feeling kind of foolish at the repetition of her words. But Billy had both stunned and confused her again. It was starting to bother her that he was able to do that so easily

After a moment, Kristal began to grow uncomfortable with the quiet that had ensued. Billy was whistling softly again, but it was half under his breath and hard to hear the tune from his short distance. Her sharp gaze kept glancing towards him, half expecting him to turn around at any moment. It was maddening! Normally the guy wouldn't shut the hell up. And now... NOW he was working on something that she couldn't see. Why couldn't he just go away? Why did he have to act gentlemanly sometimes and other times he was a complete bawdy and crass pain in the ass?!

It didn't help that he was less than fifteen feet from her pool. A troublesome thought forced it's way to the forefront of her mind --- how much had the man seen? And then she nearly groaned in aggravation --- how was she to get out of this damn pool and into her clothes without worrying that he might turn around? Okay, so she still didn't trust him. He was a louse half the time anyway. She didn't know who was worse, Billy or Steve!

"Honestly Bonney, ya can leave. I'm almost finished." There was no way she felt comfortable enough getting out of the pool where he might turn around and see her. "I'm perfectly capable o' protectin' m'self, as I've said many times already. AND even showed ya. I've had to protect myself damn near all my life, I don't need a man ta start doin' it for me now."

"While that may be senorita. I ain't takin' chances. If I left an' somethin' befell ya, my poor heart would just break right in two." He was grinning now. He would stay true to his word and not turn around. However, now he had her alone and she couldn't run off. Maybe now he could ask her some questions and finally get answers!

"Yer full o' shit, Bonney. Yer heart ain't gonna break on my account." Kristal rolled her eyes in disbelief.

"Oh how little ya know of me, Querida." The endearment slid from his lips smoothly. If she wanted to think poorly of him, than he would continue to sweet talk her even though she hated it. "Ya want me ta be a gentleman, I shall. No worries in that. I'm a man of my word. I'll keep my eyes lookin' forward, keepin' watch, jus' like ya want."

It took a moment for Kristal to respond. Billy imagined her rolling her eyes and pressing her lips together, which was exactly what she was doing. "Fine," she swore, annoyed with his chivalrous behavior. She found herself gnawing on her lower lip trying to figure out what she was going to do next. "Unfortunately, there ain't much I can do about it, now can I?"

"If ya wanna make me leave, yer more'n welcome. Though, with how modest ya seem ta be, I don't see ya comin' at me bare naked." Though the idea did make him chuckle. He might actually like it if she did. No, he knew he'd love it if she did. Though, he had come to learn a few things about her, and one was that she was probably the most modest woman he had ever known.

"God damn!" He had pegged her perfectly and it irritated her. "Ya are an annoyin' pain in m' ass, Bonney!" She cried in exasperation. He was right and they both knew it.

"So I'm told. Quite often. From you." Billy drawled slowly and laughed. He then decided to voice his thoughts, since it wasn't like she could go anywhere. Then again, she could throw a knife into your back, his subconscious reasoned. "I find it strange that yer so modest. What's it matter? Ya ain't like them prissy, fancy ladies in Lincoln or back East." The man was smirking again, "you won't let us forget it. I ain't no lady, ain't that what ya've said many times before? 'Specially since ya got no qualms in wearin' men's clothes an' all. So, I'ma mite bit confused. Didn't really take ya fer bein' a prude."

"It may be all the same ta you Bonney. Ya seen one naked woman ya seen 'em all, ain't that right?" Kristal paused and he could hear her splashing. "I ain't like that. I don't need a man oglin' me fer my womanly assets. I'm more'n breasts an' an ass... But what the hell's it matter right? Ain't that what ya said? An' those are the kinds o' thoughts that make me wanna stay clear o' any kind o' dalliance o' that sort."

"Now, I never said there weren't nothin' wrong with that," Billy interjected, though his brows were furrowed a little considering her words. "In fact yer modesty is quite refreshing. Not many gals could handle the jeers and taunting like you do. They either give in ta the name callin' or become mean ol' spinsters. I don't see that happenin' with you. Your tougher'n that. Stronger too." He grinned not bothering to clarify what he meant by that. His head then tilted, pausing in stripping the wood in his hand, "'sides I like the fact that it leaves things ta the imagination, ta be desired. Ya don't flaunt yerself. Yer confident in who ya are no matter what ya wear. It's appealing. Makes ya different. Ya stand out."

"Whatever ya say, Bonney." Kristal was rolling her eyes again while scrubbing at her hair with the perfumed soap she liked to keep in her saddle bags. Little did she realize the scent was being carried on the wind and straight to the man standing guard. "Pretty damn sure I'll be an old maid, if, that is, I don't get shot an' killed 'fore then." She shrugged, the water splashing around her. "Don't know any man who wants a gal fer her brilliant mind or fer the goodness o' her heart. Though, I ain't either o' those neither... it's gonna be a cold day in hell 'fore a man sees a woman as more than a piece o' ass ta take advantage of."

For a moment, the man didn't speak. A sweet aroma was caught on the breeze. It smelled of lilacs and jasmine, soft and sweet. With a deep breath, the blond man inhaled the scent, absorbing it to memory. It caused his stomach to flip strangely. Blinking, Billy had to force himself to focus back on her words and not the idea of Kristal washing her body with whatever it was that made such an enticing aroma.

"Not all men are the same, Querida. Ya should know that by now. I ain't like that." He could hear her scoff, which formed a frown over his lips. What was she thinking? Did she think otherwise? Damn, he wanted to know. "'Sides ya wouldn't be an old maid if ya let down yer walls an' actually allowed a man passed 'em ta get ta know ya better."

Still frowning, Billy shook his head shaving off another piece of wood with his knife, while continuing, "I sleep with whores, sure. But it's a no strings attached kinda thing. It's just a good time nothin' more." He then paused, debating on whether to say what else was on his heart. Ah, to hell with it! Common sense be damned! "I think I'd like a woman who's smart, got a mind of her own an' got a good heart. An' even though ya don't think so, I think yer all those things."

A loud splash filled the silence that came after Billy's statement. A shocked Kristal, had dropped her bottle of soap in the pool and had tried to catch it in her haste to not lose it. The water had splashed up and around her, though she didn't notice. Once the bottle was securely back in her hand her eyes snapped to Billy's back, her mouth slack. What the hell did that mean? Was he subtly telling her that he liked her? Or was he messing around with her like always? Licking her lips, she shook her head. No, it had to be the latter. It had to be. She couldn't even speak, afraid of what might come out of her mouth. Instead, she thought it best to ignore it. Maybe if she acted like she didn't hear it, he would let it go. One could hope. And yet, a part of her felt strange about what he had said. Her stomach felt weird. Instead of dwelling on it, she figured it was from lack of eating that morning. With that thought in mind, she hurried to finish her hot bath.

As silence ensued, Billy, however was staring hard at the half shaped piece of wood in his hand. He was imagining her staring at him with narrowed, suspicious eyes. She didn't like talking about feelings and Billy was starting to understand that more and more. And damn was it frustrating. How was he going to get anywhere with her when she got so  defensive and closed off. Maybe he had just sealed his fate with her. Did she hate him again? For the thousandth time he wondered what she could be thinking? AND, he desperately wished he could see her face --- and to know what that loud splash had been from. It worried him a little. Was she okay?

Forcing himself to remain with his back to her, Billy cleared his throat to continue, since apparently she wasn't going to say anything. "Ya know... I would like to settle down one day... don't seem likely now."

Billy was now rambling amidst the silence. It was making him nervous. God damnit, when did he ever get nervous? She had that affect on him though. And he hated it. Only because he never knew where he stood with her. One moment her eyes were glaring daggers at him and then the next they were dancing with some silent humor, probably at his expense.

"But, it would have been nice," the man continued on, shaving another piece of wood off the forming figure. "Have a piece of land somewhere, a little wife, kids. It's a quaint notion. Will it happen? Pro'lly not. I don't see a future for m'self. Not now that they've labeled me 'enemy number one'. They want my head." He sighed and then gave a dry chuckle. There was no humor in it though. She wasn't talking and he was starting to be consumed by the darkness shrouding his mind. "No matter, I'm resigned ta this life now."

To Billy's relief, the frustrating woman responded to him, breaking through the depression that threatened to engulf him. "Ya surprise me, Bonney, I never would'a guessed ya were so... sentimental. Ya hide it behind all that reckless behavior an' carefree attitude o' yers." She gave a soft sigh, "jus' cause they labeled ya enemy number one, don't mean ya gotta live up ta it. If'n ya wanna do all that, then do it. Don't let 'em dictate what ya can and can't do."

Her words were like a tiny flicker of flame in the darkness, a hope that Billy knew he didn't have. And yet, it still warmed him a little. That tiny flicker fought back that depression that could easily consume him. It was always there, after his mother's death, his stepfather's hatred, losing his little brother, his run in with the Indians, killing Cahill, Tunstall's murder and then even Dick's death. It was always there, yet he hid it behind laughter, jokes, and smiles. "Ya make it sound so easy, Kris..." And she did, but he still wasn't sure he believed it. "I ain't gonna let 'em get away with murdering Tunstall though. An' I sure as hell ain't gonna let them drive me outta my home."

"Yer home is where YOU make it, Bonney. It can be anywhere. I get what ya mean. But..." She paused as if trying to search for the right words, "by ya bein' stubborn, ya also miss out on life. The life ya wanna have." A sigh escaped her lips and some more splashing sounded, "then again, I ain't one ta talk. It's a nice notion. But I'll see this through too. Tunstall will be justified in one way or another."

Billy nodded. He was glad she was going to stick around, but she did have him thinking, even though it was hard to do amidst the darkness that was trying to claw at his heart. The emotion and feeling had surfaced and he couldn't quite push it back down. "yeah..." he breathed feeling lost. His eyes remained on the wood in his hand, but he wasn't carving into it anymore. All he could do was stare at it. Her words had caused him to consider the path he was on.

"What do you care anyway? You don't even want a family or someone to love. Ya push damn near everyone away! And getting to know you is like torture, slow and painful. Ya've hated me for so long... Only now saying ya supposedly don't anymore. And yet, it ain't like ya claim ta be my friend. You're so damn distant no matter how hard I try. So what is it? What do you care how I feel or what happens to me? I figured you wouldn't give a shit if they finally caught me or killed me... Figured you'd be glad ta see me gone. Good riddance an' all." It came out harsher than he meant it. His tone rife with sarcastic frustration and bitterness. But he was feeling a little defensive after revealing such deep personal emotion.

Though, when she didn't say anything, Billy started to panic. His words had just spilled out of him. Like a dam being released. And yet, he knew it wasn't entirely her fault. It was everything going on around him, including the fact that he wanted so badly to know her, to be close to her. But attacking her verbally like he had, Billy knew that wasn't going to help matters at all. He could not have her hating him again and hurried to apologize. "I-I'm sorry Kris. I didn't mean..." He had to stop. He wasn't about to lie to her. He did mean what he said, but he didn't mean it as harsh as he had said it. He was frustrated. "I didn't mean it like that..." Billy finally breathed.

Fear threatened to grip him. She was still silent. Why did it bother him so much when she didn't say anything. It was hard not being able to see her. He had no idea what she was thinking and couldn't even gauge what she might be thinking by her rather expressive features. His heart pounded with worry. He couldn't lose her too. "I shouldn't have said that... Not like that... It's all so damn frustrating to me. Tunstall was all I had left. He was a good man, someone I looked up to. Thought maybe... Ah, nevermind..."

"No, tell me, Billy... Ya thought what?" Those words were soft. There was no anger, no accusation, just understanding. A voice to ease the panic and worry inside him.

Honestly, Billy wouldn't have answered her, but there it was again. His name on her tongue, the tone of her voice warm and comforting and he found himself spilling all. "I thought... well, maybe I'd have a family again. Tunstall... Was like a father ta me. One I ain't ever had. Not even back when my Momma..." Here he stopped again, his voice breaking with pent up emotion. He ran a hand through his hair and shook his head. Damn, this was not where this conversation was supposed to have gone. He was supposed to question her, not end up revealing how screwed up he really was inside.

"Yer Momma?" Kristal urged. But the blond boy didn't continue. Her voice sounded again, encouraging him to go on. "Ya spoke of her before. At the New Years Eve Party. She's important ta ya, I can tell."

"Yeah..." Billy swallowed, emotion filling his voice. How was it, that he was talking about himself? How had things twisted around? This was supposed to be his chance to talk to her! To get her to reveal more. Yet, here he was, baring his soul to a woman who had only just stopped hating him. "I told ya she taught me ta dance. And she did. My momma... she was a good woman. Had the kindest heart outta anybody. She... remarried when I was a boy. Never liked my step-father. He weren't good to her or us --- us bein' my brother and I. Momma worked hard though because Antrim, my step-father, wouldnt. He'd be off gamblin' or flittin' away whatever money he had on whiskey and I'm sure women too."

Billy's tone had shifted. His words were filled with hate, resentment, disgust. He loathed Antrim. There had been many a time that he had dreamed to find the man face down, dead in the mud, but that dream never became a reality. "He weren't faithful to my ma, I'm sure of it. He'd be gone all hours of the day an' night. I'd hear my momma's tears..." The boy had to stop, his heart felt heavy, a dark grip curling around it at the memory. His mother's crying permanently ingrained in his mind. "My momma, she worked far harder than she should have, to take care of all of us. And in the end, that's what killed her... She got sick... an' after she died Antrim left, took my little brother with him. Never even looked back. I was 13. Been on my own ever since... At least till Mr. Tunstall found me."

"So ya thought Tunstall was your chance at a new life? To start over an' maybe have that family ya've been talkin' 'bout?" The words were meant more as an understanding than a question. She was absorbing his words, and Billy only nodded at first.

"Yeah, till he died an' here I am. Ain't I one lucky bastard?!" Billy gave a harsh chuckle not wanting to give up any more of how he felt. "None of that is happenin' now, Kris. A family, a stable home, settlin' down - it's all a fools notion. It's foolish ta hope for somethin' different. Nothin' more than a far fetched dream..."

There was silence for a moment before Billy swore and chucked the wooden figure he had been working on into the dirt and rocks. He was annoyed with himself for being such an open book to her. The blond  shook his head before replacing his knife at his belt. Maybe he shouldn't have told her anything. Maybe he should have kept everything close to his chest like he did with everything and everyone else. He tried to listen to the sounds behind him, but all he heard was splashing. He heaved a sigh, doubting himself.

Speaking his mind was probably one of the worst things he could have done with her. Now, she probably viewed him as weak and pathetic, lost and broken. A lost orphan with no direction and no where to go. The down crest man kicked at the dirt beneath his boot, angry with himself. What a fool he was!

"Ya know..." Kristal began, her raspy, husky voice soft.

Those two words were a slow fire to his aching heart, filling him with longing. He found that he craved her words, her insight, and optimism. He longed just to hear the often quiet woman speak. Hell, he figured he had made himself sound pathetic and horribly broken making it so she wouldn't respond to him anymore. He had thought he blew it. She had no idea that the sound of her voice filled him with relief.

Cornflower blue eyes widened a little, brow rising as he waited for her to continue what she was saying. Damn, did he want to turn around, to see her expressive face. But he would respect her privacy as painful as that was for him.

"I was never lucky enough ta know m' mother." A soft puff of air blew through her lips. "I've imagined her, but that's always as far as it goes. I've only known a firm and stern hand, never compassion or love, least as far as Belle and the gang were concerned."

A brow rose as he listened to her. She sounded different. Was she closer? Shaking his head mentally, he questioned her even though he worried she'd stop talking again. "Ya got it elsewhere though, didn't ya?"

"Yeah, the... uh... tribe... what they could give, I guess. It weren't exactly normal for 'em ta take me in, but Belle always got her way. Even among the tribe. Hell, I'm lucky they even accepted me, it weren't usually their way. But they did... eventually."

Billy's brows were furrowing now, trying to understand what she was saying. He also wanted to question her more about this tribe, but he didn't want to interrupt her either. It was a conundrum. While he was debating on what to say, if he should even say anything, he was also trying to figure out what was going on behind him. Kristal sounded like she was... moving.

"It's how I ain't completely heartless, I guess, though some like ta think I am." She gave a little scoff. It annoyed her, Billy could tell. She didn't like being considered heartless. Though, she didn't mind being considered dangerous. That brought an amused smirk back to his face.

"But all that don't mean I didn't have dreams and even caught a glimmer of those dreams comin' true when I was with Tunstall. I'm not sayin' I know how ya feel, but I do understand."

The boy blinked. What the hell was this? She was showing compassion... to him!

"As fer yer mother," Kristal's voice had become even softer, more gentle. That was shocking in its self. "She sounds like she loved ya dearly ta work so hard ta take care o' you an' yer brother... An' I can tell that ya loved her beyond compare. I'm sorry ya lost her."

That emotion was back. Her gentleness and heartfelt sympathy moved him. He had never had the chance to mourn his mother. All emotion had to be pressed down or he never would have survived. And that was all that mattered to him after losing his mother, was surviving. He had to take long, deep breaths in order to try and calm himself or the emotion that was at the surface would spill over.

However, when a hand rested on his shoulder it startled the hell out of him. It was strange though, because it also comforted him. Unlike most who would have jumped at the touch, he was warmed by it and he slowly turned his head to view a scarred but slender hand resting on his shoulder. Graceful long fingers, surprisingly dainty, well groomed nails, a gentle touch. His eyes followed the length of the hand to an unwavering wrist. A scar that looked like bite marks pulled at tanned flesh around the base. His gaze then trailed the arm, admiring the smooth skin mottled with the occasional scarring that spoke of a warrior.

As his eyes trailed up the arm, Billy slowly continued to turn to the one person he was beginning to trust more than anyone else. Cornflower colored orbs slid up to a soft and concerned face, and stopped on hunter green eyes filled with sympathy and sorrow. He was frozen by the sight of her. Her hair was wet, dripping over her shoulders and downward... An off-white button up shirt, that was far too big for the slender frame he knew she had, covered her. But it was her eyes that captivated him. They were a lighter shade of green, like the moss growing along a tree trunk in the spring. It was the most beautiful shade of green he had ever seen.

The woman swallowed, waiting for him to finish his turn and look at her. "Losin' folk ya care about ain't easy... I can't imagine losin' someone ya love... Someone that clearly meant everything to ya." Those radiant eyes were searching his face. Billy absentmindedly wondered what she hoped to find. Or did his face mirror the emotions he felt inside. It was then her eyes fell downwards, a darkness shadowing her green depths. "I dunno if I've ever really had that... I think Tunstall could o' been... Maybe Ilyoni..."

That struck something inside him. All his pain, his grief melted away for a moment. She had never had someone to care for her? He remembered her mentioning this Ilyoni once before, but who was she to Kristal exactly? He had come to learn that Belle had never been much of a mother figure. But had she truly never had anyone else? And if she did, how rare was it for her?

"Maybe that's why Tunstall's death bothered me so much... 'cause he cared. He did more than jus' say it too, he showed it. Hell, he took me in when he didn't have ta. I could'a died if it weren't fer him." A slow sigh blew through her lips and her gaze lifted back to Billy. "He was gonna claim me like a daughter or at least kin, jus' ta keep the law off m' back. Ain't no one... has ever been willin' ta risk themselves like that fer me. Not even the woman who claimed ta be m' ma." Belle. She was referring to Belle, Billy realized. "That woman left me... betrayed me... She don't truly care 'bout me. I ain't sure she ever did."

There was deep bitter emotion in her voice that Billy picked up on. It made him want to reach out, maybe even hold her. But instead he remained stupidly standing before her, staring. He didn't want to ruin this moment.

"If Tunstall had lived... maybe things would be different. I could'a been free o'... Belle an' Sam." The way Kristal said Sam's name had some underlying venom. She didn't mention Sam very often. It made Billy wonder as to what that bitter anger was about. "Maybe then I wouldn't o' been so adverse ta love, yeah?"

To Billy's surprise, the corner of her lip had risen into a half smile. She found it amusing. That was ironic. He didn't find it funny though. He desperately wanted to show her what love was like. But did he even know? His mother had shown him love. But what did he know about loving someone else? That was why he slept with whores, there was no attachment. He didn't have to put his heart on the line. This time it was Billy who was at a loss for words.

Silence once again surrounded them. This time it was his own fault. He desperately wanted to say something, but what? A shift of movement slid over his shoulder as her hand dropped to her side. Already, he missed her touch, the warmth that went through him every time she put a gentle hand on him. With a sigh, Kristal took a step back, standing little more than a couple feet away looking... dejected? Billy raised a brow. What happened to her smirk? Why did she seem suddenly upset? And then she spoke interrupting the silence, a sigh sliding over her lips.

"For the record, Billy..."

And there it was again, his name. Not Bonney, not pain in the ass or any other derogatory remark she often called him. It was his name and he loved hearing it. He wanted to hear it more. He wanted to hear her scream--- wait, no... He couldn't let his thoughts go there. Not with her. That would be torturous and he didn't want to think of her like that. Because, if he were honest with himself, he didn't. She was not like any other woman he had ever known. Other than his mother, she was the only woman he cared for so deeply that her opinion mattered to him. The way that she viewed him, mattered.

"I don't hate ya..." That husky voice was soft, her gaze lowering to her hands. She appeared a little nervous. That was a switch! "An' maybe... Jus' maybe... I never really did."

Wait, what? Did he hear that correctly? He couldn't keep the surprise out of his eyes. They widened just a little as he searched her features, trying to understand, to absorb the words he was so stunned to hear. She didn't hate him and maybe never truly had? He had a hard time grasping that from all the times she had said that she loathed him.

She must have noticed his shock because her smirk was back. "Don't get me wrong, I didn't like ya much in the beginning. Ya rubbed me wrong. Annoyed the hell outta me too. Even challenged me an' not in a way I like ta be challenged. Ya constantly pushed me outta m' comfort zone. Constantly got on m' last nerve. And then..." She paused her fingers running over her lips as she considered her next words. "Then ya shot me."

If he didn't know better, he could almost swear she had been about to say kissed me instead. Or maybe even was about to say it first followed by the fact that he had shot her. But she didn't. Did she really not want to think about it? Because he desperately wanted to kiss her again. Billy then started to protest. He felt the sudden need to apologize again. But she lifted her hand to stop him and he clamped his mouth shut.

"Please... Let me get this out 'fore I can't."

Billy just nodded dumbly. He honestly wasn't sure he could speak even if he wanted to. But he also felt like he needed to make a point of declaring how sorry he was for hurting her. If he had it his way, she would never be hurt again.

When he kept quiet, Kristal continued, "I owe ya an apology, I believe. Fer bein' so... awful to ya about that." Taking a deep breath, her eyes moved off of him again. "I understand now... I can't blame ya fer shootin' me... Fer bein' careful an' protectin' the others. I realize that emotions were high, McCloskey's behavior, losin' Dick, Doc an' Chavez bein' shot, thinkin' I abandoned y'all." She sighed at the memory. "Ya never expected ta see me comin' back."

This time Billy felt the need to speak up, "and that was damn foolish of me for ever thinkin' ya werent so loyal ta us. Bounty or no..."

The blonde shook her head again, quickly cutting him off, "nah, I understand it now, like I said. I've realized a few things... Maybe, if I had been less guarded. Let y'all get ta know me more..." Kristal shrugged. She was internally warring with her emotions and only the constant biting of her lower lip gave it away.

"I shouldn't o' been so quick ta judge you though, fer as much as I did. I know..." Here she rolled her eyes at her own previous behavior, "I know I got a temper. An' I took a good deal o' m' anger an' frustration out on you."

"Ya don't gotta explain yourself, Querida." Billy tried again, but his voice became lost as the hand she had held up, pressed against his chest. Not hard, but firm enough to get his heart pounding. Firm enough he could once again feel her warmth. It immediately caused him to once again shut his mouth.

"Please, Billy... Let me finish."

Those words! How was he going to hear anything after that? Please, Billy... Damn! He had to try and force himself to focus on her words. To listen to what she said and not let himself get carried away by wanton thoughts.

"I don't wanna see, ya dead... none o' ya. Why d'ya think I work so damn hard ta prevent it...? All o' ya are... have become... important ta me. Maybe that makes us friends? I dunno. I ain't ever really had any friends so I don't rightly know what it's like. I wasn't allowed. It was always the gang and Belle and Sam. It was all I needed, or so Belle would say." Kristal sighed, still unable to meet his gaze, however, her hand remained on his chest. "Ya do frustrate the hell outta me Bonney. Ya like ta get on m' last nerve an' I don't understand why, except that ya find it funny. An' ya like ta pry inta m' personal life... an' I ain't sure I like it. I don't like ta relive painful memories. Yer also reckless an' it worries me that y'all are gonna end up..." Here she stopped, her eyes squeezing shut. The thought of them dying, losing them forever like with Dick and Tunstall; it terrified her.

"I don't wanna lose any o' ya. I've lost so many a'ready. Folk I didn't even realize I truly cared about... till it was too late." Kristal's gaze remained shut, her expression fighting off deep emotion.

Billy wanted to reach out and pull her to him, but he also wanted so desperately to question her. And he knew both would cause her to shut down again. But it didn't keep him from wondering about who else  she might have cared about?  Tunstall, sure. Dick, maybe, but that was curious if so. They hadn't exactly gotten along. But who else? Someone in her old gang? Was it that Wilkes guy? He desperately wanted to know but wouldn't dare interrupt her now.

"At first, I was lookin' out fer y'all 'cause o' Tunstall... Or so I lead myself ta believe." Kristal paused, her teeth catching her lower lip again. The uncertainty written on her face was adorable. Her expression was rarely this soft. "But it ain't true... I've found I care for all o' ya. Charlie, Doc, Chavez... Even Steve and... You, Billy." Her eyes opened to land on him as she spoke his name.

Somehow, knowing this sent a thrill through him. It emboldened him. "We... I care for ya too, Kris. Querida..." His tone softened as he replied to her. He wanted to tell her so much more. To speak his heart. But his heart and his mind were getting a little jumbled, lost in translation. "I don't want nothin' bad happening ta you either. Which is why... I'd rather ya stay with me... us... And not go back to Belle or even... go off on your own. Ya don't need to be alone."

A soft sigh whistled over her lips. Lips, Billy found himself increasingly drawn to. "It ain't that easy, Billy."

This time it was Billy's turn to stop her. "it never is. But, we need you... I... need you." There. He said it. He felt he had to. "You got all of us looking out for ya. If anyone wants to try and come after ya, we'll defend ya." He almost said protect her, but he knew she wouldn't appreciate that. Though, that is exactly what he wanted to do - protect her. She'd never allow it though, if she knew. So, he would never tell her. But he'd do it all the same.

"I don't want y'all mixed up in m' mess. It's too dangerous. Belle's crazy... and Sam... he's depraved. Then ya got Ace... an' that ain't even everyone I've pissed off." The words fell from her lips with bitter sorrow. "There's a whore in Abilene with her cronies, a crooked Marshall in Tulsa... God, I got so many damn enemies... I don't want y'all gettin' caught in the crossfire. I couldn't live with that..."

The blond man watched as her gaze closed again, as if to shut out the world. He frowned a little wanting to say something to ease her sadness. She sounded almost as lost as he felt half the time. There was no way he was going to allow her to be alone in whatever the future held for them, no matter how dangerous. They could handle it, together. He only hoped she would agree to stay with him.

As he stood there, his eyes searching her features, they landed on her lips. A sudden urge went through him. One he couldn't stop no matter how hard he tried. She was biting that lip again, enticing him without even knowing what she was doing to him. It was then he lost himself. He was doomed he was sure. She was going to hate him again... then again she claimed she never really had. Would she start now? Perhaps he was destined to have her forever loathing him. Though, he couldn't help but hope for the best. Maybe she wouldn't hate him... Maybe this could be a start to something more...

The blond man just couldn't help himself. No more holding back. She was much too close to him anyway. It made it easier. Her words had touched him, her touch had warmed him, and her lips were beckoning him. It wasn't a far distance as he leaned in and gently pressed his lips against hers.

When she didn't protest, he continued, the passion in him rising. Was it his imagination or did her lips part a little for him? He took a step closer sealing his fate he was sure. There was no longer any distance between them as their bodies pressed gently against each other. He could feel the pounding of her heart quickening in her chest, or was that his own? A calloused hand slid to her neck, brushing over her skin to the back of her head. His fingers wove through her wet hair, the silky strands entwining around his hand. He wanted so much more of her. To have her unwavering strength and compassion. To have her companionship and maybe... just maybe, he wanted her love.

There was no protest, or maybe there was but he was too far lost in her. She tasted sweetly inexperienced, but with a wild fire that heated his core and filled him with desire. Damn did he want more of her. More of her touch, more of her delicious taste, more of her scent filling his nostrils. But he also wanted so much more, like her fiery wit, her intelligent mind, her passionate caring. He wanted all of of her. It both frightened him and excited him because he wasn't sure if he could stop himself. Though, he knew he must... somehow. But how? He needed to stop before his carnal desires over ran his rational mind.

"Shit!" An unwelcome voice swore from somewhere above, behind the blocking pinion trees. "Fuck! These damn bushes!"

Billy was so lost in the kiss that he didn't notice that Steve had come to look for them and was getting ever closer.

"Hey, Billy! Kris! Foods ready?!" The dirty man grumbled under his breath. "Where the hell are ya?"

With a jolt, the warmth and electric surge that had coarsed through him immediately disappeared as Kristal pulled away. A husky gasp escaped those all too perfect lips. He noticed she clutched the oversized shirt tighter around her... and... damn... He didn't realize how shapely her body was. Her gaze never landed on him as she turned around and hurried to the large pinion that held her saddlebag.

It was then he realized she wasn't wearing pants. "Shit..." he breathed. How the hell had he missed that? Miss modest had approached and comforted him wearing nothing more than an oversized shirt. The sentiment in her actions was not lost on him. She had approached him, in a time of need, despite how adamant she was in staying modest. "Damn..." he breathed again, the realization of her empathy and tenderheart towards him moved him, even as his eyes watched those bare muscled legs hurrying back to the tree.

Steve stumbled into view at that moment, half rolling down the same hill that Billy had carefully come down when searching for the one singing that odd native song. Billy watched Steve, chuckling as the man picked himself up and looked around. As much as he wanted to be mad about Steve's interruption, he couldn't. The kiss had lifted his spirits. In fact he felt like he was soaring.

Hearing chuckling, Steve turned to see Billy grinning his way. He noticed that his friend's face was flushed, but quickly brushed it aside. "Ah, there ya are Billy! Where's Kris? Have ya seen..." His gaze roamed the area and caught sight of her slipping behind a thick tree. His mouth dropped open as he finished his sentence, "...her." Had he just seen, what he thought he had seen?

"Yeah..." Billy started to say, but the dirty man cut him off.

"W-was that... Kris?" The dirty man was gaping now. A sparsely dressed blonde, with firm and sexy legs. He had only caught a glimpse, but... "shit!"

Billy nodded, his smile twitching into a frown. It would have been amusing under normal circumstances, but seeing Steve's response to what he might have seen, didn't sit well with Billy. He wasn't sure he wanted the man admiring Kristal's lack of clothing.

"She was... all she had on... Why, that was just a shirt!" Steve exclaimed, trying to grasp what he had seen.

The blond man's frown deepened. "I wouldn't make a big deal outta it if I were you, Steve."

"Damn!" The man continued, not heeding Billy's words. "What the hell did she..." His gaze fell on the pool of water realization entering his eyes. "Oh... shit. There ain't no damn way... She was bathing weren't she?" He then grinned wildly, eyes lighting up some as he approached Billy's side. He elbowed his friend's arm, his own covered in dirt and his eyebrows waggling up and down suggestively. "Did you see her... ya know... naked...?"

"Hell, no! I am capable of being a gentleman when in the presence of a woman who does not wish to be seen unclothed, Steve." Billy's tone was bordering on annoyance. Disgusted by the other boy's behavior, Billy shoved the other boy away from him. "Knock it off, Steve! It ain't right!"

"What?" Steve protested, confusion sliding over his face. "Why ain't it? That woman's always hidden all her feminine assets from everyone. But what I did see... those legs.... Shit!" The man spat on the ground and turned to Billy with a wide grin on his face. "C'mon, tell me... did ya see all of her? Ya know..." His hands made the outline of his own body with over exaggerated curves for emphasis.

"Do not say it again, Steve." Billy practically growled, his good mood was now gone thanks to his friends brash behavior.

"Yeah, Steve... I suggest ya keep yer thoughts and everythin' else ta yer damn self." Kristal's voice sounded as she rounded the tree, now completely dressed. She had a vest over her shirt, which was tucked into her dark jeans. Her saddlebag was over her shoulder and she was avoiding looking at Billy. Instead, she was glaring Steve's way. "Bonney ain't seen a damn thing... so, shut yer mouth an' stop talkin'. It only makes ya look stupid."

A cough forced its way out of Billy's lips. Kristal's words were harsh. She was angry, he could tell. But he wasn't sure with whom she was angry with. Him or Steve? Maybe both? He noticed that she refused to look his way and yet, her cheeks were a soft blush of pink. It was adorable. His eyes followed her as she started to walk passed them.

A loud grumbled sigh blew out of Steve's mouth."Pity... I'm surprised though... even that little bit... Shit, Billy, she's more woman than she lets on."

The woman visibly tensed as she strode away. However, she made no motion to look back or even slow down. She was half way up the hill when Billy finally responded to his friend.

"I'd be careful Steve," Billy began as he walked over to a nearby tree. He paused eyeing the knife that was sticking out of the trunk. It was the same knife she had thrown to show that she was not at a disadvantage in protecting herself. His hand gripped the hilt and he had to pull harder than he thought to dislodge the blade. It caused his brow to raise. Damn, that woman was stronger than she looked. His light blue eyes stared at the knife in his hand, noting the intricate details carved into the smooth hilt. "Ya might end up finding a knife in your back if'n ya don't behave. Kris don't suffer fools an' she don't take kindly to anyone ogglin' her."

"But..." Steve began and then stopped, his expression shifting to confusion once more. Why was Billy sticking up for the fiery woman like he was? Normally he'd be right there with him making his lewd or sarcastic remarks, even teasing the woman. What the hell had happened that Billy was defending her? "Ya two been out here a while..." Steve started back up trying to glean some kind of information from the other boy.

Billy only shrugged, "a little while, I guess." It was easy to figure out what Steve was doing and Billy was not about to give in. There was no way he was going to tell Steve anything about his and Kristal's conversation or the impromptu kiss. Especially the kiss. Though, remembering the feel of her lips on his... God damn, how was he going to be able to function? How was he going to be able to focus? Shit! That woman had a hold over him that she didn't realize and he only just realized. And, what really surprised him was, he didn't think he minded it one bit.  A smile lit his face once more though, giddy as hell over the kiss.

Clapping Steve on the back, Billy turned the boy in the direction of camp. "Ain't nothin' happened Steve." A little white lie wouldn't hurt, would it? Seemed better than the alternative at least. "C'mon, let's get back. Seems we got a change of plans. We're gonna head to Fort Sumner instead of Lincoln."

Steve's eyes grew wide and he turned to Billy, relief washing over his features. "Really? Does that mean we can relax for a little while?"

"Yeah." Billy chuckled. "Y'all can relax. 'Sides, I promised ta teach a gal how ta play hide n' seek."