Time passed slowly for Kristal as she viewed her room. The bed against the wall was quaint and looked inviting. Sitting on the edge, a soft sigh blew through the blonde's lips. The bed was as soft as it looked. The mattress formed around her posterior. It invited her to relax against its silky comforter. Ignoring the overwhelming fatigue that beckoned her, green eyes flicked to the fancy furnishings before landing on the door. She vaguely wondered where Billy's room was. He hadn't told her, but she also hadn't asked. A part of her didn't care. While another part of her felt a protective sense of needing to watch over the reckless man.

With another sigh escaping her lips, she pushed those thoughts aside and allowed herself to fall back on the much too comfortable bed. The mattress and silkened lace comforter cradled her body and Kristal found she was having a hard time keeping her eyes open. The exhaustion she had felt for days was gaining in strength. It was becoming harder and harder to fight.

Staring up at the wall, her gaze flicked over the wooden beams above her which seemed so out of place in Texas. Most homes and buildings were adobe built. The adobe buildings were far more practical in such a hot state. Sage green eyes followed the beam across her room before she let her eyelids shudder. She was losing her battle against her fatigue and she knew it. Maybe just a short nap wouldn't be so bad. She was safe in the room, alone. The door was locked and no one knew who she was. She would try her best to keep it that way. There was also no one out to get her here. That thought let her relax enough to drift off to sleep.

****

When she awoke, Kristal gasped and quickly sat up. She immediately knew she had slept longer than she had planned. How much time had passed? Quickly moving to the window she feared it would be dark. The sun was thankfully still in the sky, though it had dipped much lower than before she had drifted off to sleep. By her guess it had been at least four or so hours. Cursing the relaxing bed, she turned to the mirror attached to the vanity near the bed. Her hair was strewn all wild and crazy around her face. Reaching into her saddlebag, she pulled out her silver plated brush and pulled the bristles through her golden hair.

It took the blonde woman minutes to once again feel and look presentable. Her hair was free of snarls and knots and left loose down her back. Gripping her fallen hat, she placed it back on her head, satisfied with her weathered appearance. Now all she needed to do was find Billy. He had mentioned to her earlier about going to the saloon, so she exited her hotel room with that destination in mind.

The saloon was as loud and rowdy as ever when Kristal reached it. Pushing past the double swinging doors, sharp eyes glanced around the room. Only a few patrons and a couple working women stopped to stare her way. She ignored them as her gaze searched for Billy. A loud roar came from a card table near the back side of the room and there she found Billy, a whore leaning against his side. The boy had a broad grin on his face as he collected his winnings, the whore trying to sidle up against him.

Disgust curled in her chest and she turned her gaze from the sight. Billy hadn't noticed her, he was too engrossed in his game, so she headed for the bar. There was no sense in bothering him.

"Soda water." The woman sat at the tall stools against the counter, nodding to the fancy dressed bartender.

The barkeep nodded back and slid a glass to her not even batting an eye that her drink wasn't alcoholic.

"Why not a whiskey for the lass instead," sounded a man to Kristal's right. He waved to the barkeep who rolled his eyes, but obliged.

As the whiskey slid in front of her, Kristal grimaced. "I didnt ask for whiskey. I'm fine with my drink."

"Aww, come now, sweet'eart. Ya don't come into an establishment like this and not have a little alcohol." The man was slurring his words as he spoke and leaning precariously close to Kristal. "Ain't nothin' wrong with a little drink. C'mon. Ya'll like it."

Finding the drunk to be repulsive as well as far too close for comfort, Kristal leaned away from him. "What part of, I don't want it, don't ya get?" She tried to get up but was pulled to a stop as the man's arm went around her shoulder. As he grinned, his foul breath made Kristal's stomach churn. "Look mister, I don't want no trouble. If ya don't leave me alone, yer askin' fer trouble."

The drunk chuckled and wavered at her side. "You ain't no trouble sweet thing. You're just what I've been wantin' after a long hard day."

Pressing closer, his face came towards hers. Bile rose in her throat as he approached and she quickly turned her head away from him. Releasing her grip on her drink, the blonde woman grabbed the man's arm to push it off her.

The man was not to be dissuaded. Despite being unable to go in for a kiss, he continued forward his lips pressing against her neck. "You look familiar," he breathed hotly onto her neck. "Do I know you from somewhere? Maybe we met before?"

A shock of fear went through her at the man's words and her fingers faltered at trying to pry him off of her. Did she recognize him? Did this man somehow recognize her? The unease in her stomach grew as the man's lips curled over her neck.

"I ain't ever seen ya before in my life," Kristal growled, again trying to push the drunk away from her. Being this close to a man, let alone one who might know her, was making her nerves rattle.

"Yeah... Yeah..." His breath grew hotter against her neck. The words that left his lips were mumbled, and his grip tightened around her. "You're uh..." The drunk pulled away a little to set his drink down and snap his fingers. "Shit! I know it... I just can't remember...." His lips went back to her neck, holding her as she tried to get away again. "Yer so purty... Yer name don't matter... Even though it's on the tip of my tongue." As he said that, his tongue pushed passed his lips and caressed her skin.

A shiver of revulsion went through her and she pushed the man harder. Despite this man being drunk off his rocker, he was rather strong, holding her close to him. "I don't know who ya are mister. Now get away from me." Her hiss only made the man chuckle and it sparked Kristal into moving her right arm into going towards her knife. If this fool didn't want to listen, he was going to end up dead.

The drunkard didn't pay her any heed, "no, no... That ain't what ya want..." His free hand started to slide around her waist, drawing her into an embrace. "I know who ya are now ... Yer my girl. All mine. Why don't we head upstairs, my purdy girl," the man slurred.

A grunt then sounded from the drunk when his hand that had been going around the blonde woman's waist was gripped by a strong grasp and pushed back and away from Kristal.

"Excuse you, Mister!" Billy's voice came from the opposite side of Kristal. "Is this man botherin' you, mi Querida?"

After winning his last round of cards, a quick glance around the saloon told him that Kristal had come in. He was a little disappointed she didn't approach him, but upon seeing her being harassed by some drunk, he knew he needed to help her. Billy drew in close, his icey blue eyes glaring at the man. "If ya don't mind, I'd appreciate ya gettin' yer hands off my girl!"

Surprise flickered in Kristal's eyes as Billy claimed her as his. The mention caused a fire to flare in her eyes but she didn't deny it with the drunk still holding her. "Won't leave me alone. Says he knows me, but I ain't ever seen him b'fore."

The drunk pulled back a little, his face inches from Kristal's neck. Seeing the look in the blond boy's eyes, he pushed himself away a little more. "She was all alone. Didn't think she was claimed by no one. Shame to leave a purty girl like her unattended in a place like this. Anyone might wanna take a kiss... Or more..."

Billy's eyes hardened as the drunk drew closer to Kristal's neck again. Reaching over her chest, he stopped the man's forward approach with his hand on the other man's forehead. "The lady ain't alone. She's with me. An' unless you want a heap o' trouble, I reckon ya let her go. Now." Letting the man go, he motioned down to his gun and then noticed the knife in Kristal's hand but didn't allude to it. "The lady said she don't know ya. Seems like you've mistaken her for someone else. I suggest ya save face an' leave, while ya can. I have a right ta protect my gal from unwanted attention."

The drunk's grip loosened on Kristal's shoulder and his other hand went back to his drink. "She's your girl?" The drunk was finally catching on. "You claim her?"

"That's what I said," Billy asserted, inwardly grimacing at this man's idiocy.

Once the drunks grip loosened, Kristal shoved his arm away from her shoulders. Relief filled her, but it was short lived. Billy's arm curled around her waist and drew her closer to his side. There was a difference between Billy's hold compared to the drunk's. Billy's felt protective, almost possessive like he meant the words that came out of his mouth. Before she could say anything, Billy spoke up again.

"She's mine an' I don't take kindly to anyone troubling her. Understand?" The blond's voice was cold and hard as he questioned the man's competence. "I suggest ya take your drink over to one o' them saloon gals over there." He nodded his head towards the woman who had been at his side during the card game. "Opal is quite free. And I'm sure she'd be happy to give you all the attention you want."

The drunk stepped back, considering Billy's words. His gaze slid lazily to the arm the blond had around the woman and sighed. The gun alone was enough to make him back away. "I see... Huh... I believe yer right..." The drunk glanced back at the whore, Opal, and retrieved the whiskey. "Yer a lucky man, Mister. She's quite purty." He then lifted his glass to Kristal, "my apologies Miss. Didn't mean no harm."

Kristal let out a breath as the drunk took the whiskey and moved across the room to the pouting saloon girl. The whore, Opal, brightened as the drunk approached her. Good riddance, she thought with a frown.

"Can't leave ya alone for a minute," Billy whispered in her ear, his arm still tight around her.

"I ain't yer girl!" Kristal turned on him with a hiss being careful to keep her voice down.

A smirk pulled at Billy's lips, "no, but he don't know that. Got him to leave ya alone though didn't it?" His smirk shifted into a grin as he looked down at her. His gaze slid over her features and paused at her lips before he leaned in to whisper again, "a guy can dream though."

Silence was his response. He watched as her eyes widened, his words sinking in. Seeing her response, he again chuckled. He loved to rile her up even if he meant every word he said to her. Before she could say or do anything, he motioned to her glass, changing the subject. "No whiskey?"

"Soda water," Kristal responded, her voice soft as she silently pondered his words. "I don't drink remember?"

Chuckling, Billy raised an arm to get the Barkeeps attention and ordered the same as she had. "I do, actually." He nodded his thanks to the barkeep when the drink was set in front of him, Billy reluctantly released his grip from her and took a sip. "Ya know you're just as much trouble as they say I am."

"Me?" The blonde queried defensively. "I ain't done nothin' but sit here."

"That's enough it seems. Or did ya not notice the eyes watchin' ya?" Billy asked, giving a subtle motion of his head in the direction of the few men around the room that still has their eyes on her.

"I noticed." The woman relaxed a little already knowing which of the few were watching her and where each was sitting. "It ain't nothin' new, Bonney. I'm a woman," she paused to shrug and took a small drink. "Dressed like I am an' actin' the way I do, it causes folk ta notice. I'm only hopin' no one remembers me..." That damn drunk had shaken her with his remark about 'knowing her from somewhere '. She had been afraid that he would suddenly remember, announce who she was and the law would be on her before she could do anything.

Settling her once frazzled nerves, her gaze shifted to Billy. "Besides, I ain't the only one with eyes on 'em." Kristal smirked when he raised a brow at her. She prided herself on being observant. That was why she was aware of everyone in the saloon from the moment she entered.

Turning in her seat, her gaze casually went across the room noticing who was still watching before landing back on Billy. "Ya make a habit outta gamblin'?"

Billy's eyes had followed hers and he caught sight of the men who were discreetly eyeing him. They were fiddling with their drinks, but he noticed their careful glances. "Eh, when I can. I'm good at it." It was said with pride as he leaned back a little to relax, unphased by the men. They didn't scare him a bit.

"Makes folks angry when ya win an' they lose, though." Kristal downed the rest of her drink and shrugged. "Jus' sayin'... I ain't the only one with eyes on 'em."

Billy scoffed, and rolled his own eyes playing it off. This was nothing compared to some of his past instances playing cards. "They're more than likely just jealous that I'm at your side and they ain't, Querida. They probably want your attention to themselves."

Billy was surprised when Kristal laughed, though it sounded gruff and full of sarcastic annoyance, "yer full of shit Bonney."

"Maybe." This time it was Billy who shrugged. "But I think a few of them are a bit jealous. Yer the prettiest girl in the room and they know it." Smooth confidence and charm oozed from his words as he threw caution to the wind. He was feeling good from his earlier card win so he figured why not test his luck further. So far it seemed to be going well.

"I highly doubt that," Kristal murmured finding his compliment hard to grasp. "There are far purtier gals, like them saloon gals over there." She might not be fond of the paid women, but she couldn't deny their often better looks. Her gaze drifted to the markings on the wood bar trying to think of something to change the subject. Compliments made her uncomfortable. Mostly because she didn't get them often. At least not from sober, decent men. Was Billy decent? She supposed he was better than most. "How long were ya gamblin' b'fore I came in?"

A brow rose on the wild blond's face and he shook his head. Reaching into his pocket he pulled out a beat up watch. "A few hours." Billy shrugged not minding much. "Its been nearly five hours since we parted ways after the cafe."

Both Kristal's brows knit together. Five hours? She had made him wait five hours? That meant she had napped for nearly that long. Irritation crossed her face, this time with herself. "Sorry ta make ya wait so long."

"No worries at all, Querida. I'd wait forever for you." He grinned and then cleared his throat. "Though, I did have company for part of the time."

Company?

"Was it that little red head leaning on ya earlier? She seemed awful smitten." As hard as she tried, Kristal was unable to keep the bitter sarcasm out of her voice.

Billy jolted at the question unprepared for such animosity. "Red head? What red head? I wasn't..." He stopped as he remembered the girl at the card table earlier. She was cute, but nothing compared to the raw beauty that Kristal was. "Ya mean Opal?" When Kristal didn't respond, Billy noticed her lips press together. He withheld a chuckle and turned to face Kristal. "The workin' gals like to come over and watch Kris. They wait for the winner to collect their winnings and then they sweet talk 'em up to a room for the night." Heaven knew how many times Billy had been taken in by a pretty face and followed the gal to a room.

"But I didn't pay any attention to Opal. She brought me a drink and stayed close probably thinking I'd join her upstairs. But I ain't gonna..."

"Don't let me stand in yer way, Bonney." Kristal interrupted, her tone darkening. A part of her hated the idea of Billy going with some saloon gal up to her room. But she wasn't about to acknowledge it. Hell, she didn't even know why she felt that way. "If ya want a whore, that's on you. I don't want no one sayin' I held 'em back."

Annoyance flashed in Billy's eyes. "Anyone ever tell you your frustratin' as hell sometimes?!" He frowned as she glared at him. "Would ya mind lettin' me continue?"

She merely waved a hand in front of her, a mocking gesture not lost on Billy. It spiked his own temper a little more. Kristal certainly knew how to provoke a man. Taking a breath, he turned his attention fully on her. "I told Opal she could leave. That even if I won, which I did by the way, I wouldn't be going no where with her. That I was with you."

Immediately Kristal's eyes narrowed, "what d'ya mean with me?" As quickly as they narrowed, she began to grow distant. "We aint... You ain't with me, Bonney."

"No! I know!" God damn she was frustrating the hell out of him. Mostly because he hated hiding his feelings from her. He wanted to just come out and say that he truly cared for her. That he wanted more than just friendship. But he knew she'd panic and bolt. "Just that, we're friends and I wasn't gonna do that to ya. It ain't right for a guy to bring a gal somewhere and then leave 'em high and dry to go be with another woman." He didn't want any other woman anyway. He wanted Kristal. But damn did the fiery blonde make it hard.

Once again, Kristal's eyes narrowed, suspicion flaring in her green depths. "Fine." It was the only thing she thought to say for a moment as she tried to conceal her confusion. As usual Billy smoothly talked his way out of her ire. But this time it left her confused and feeling funny. "Might wanna keep yer winnin' quiet though. That couple o' fellas ya got all disgruntled by winnin' their money are watchin' ya, ready ta rob ya soon as yer alone." She shrugged, "or if ya leave."

Billy chuckled, all his former irritation with her fading away, touched by her concern. "Aww, it's sweet hearin' ya all concerned. But I ain't worried."

"We don't need no trouble Billy," Kristal chastised, still trying to calm her nerves from the man who claimed he recognized her from before. Any trouble could mean someone recognizing who she was and then they would have a problem.

"An' we ain't gonna have any. I'll be as good as gold, Querida." Billy's grin returned and he flashed it her way.

"Uh-huh." Her tone was soft, mumbled like she didn't quite believe him.

Drumming his finger on the bar, Billy watched her. He knew she didn't believe him. But he was doing his best. Still, they would need to get out of the saloon without the two that were watching him, coming after him. "I'm gettin' a might bit hungry. Wanna have that dinner now?"

Rolling her eyes, she shrugged. "If that's what ya want." Her finger tip swirled around the rim of her empty glass, watching the two men in the mirror behind the bar. "How ya plannin' on gettin' by the two ya assholes ya pissed off with yer wins?"

A crazed smirk lit his face, "I have an idea. But I'm gonna need ya ta play along. Think ya can do it?"

A brow rose as Kristal turned her head to look at him. Her stomach twisted at the wild look on his face. "I ain't gonna like this am I?"

"Depends..." His gaze took her in and he shook his head. "Probably not, but just play along will ya? We won't have no trouble if ya do."

The twisting of her stomach didn't stop and she had a feeling she was going to regret whatever this plan of his was. Still it was better than dealing with any trouble that was bound to come their way. "Fine. I'll try my best. What do ya need me to do?"

Billy's smirk widened into a crooked grin. That same grin that made many a woman swoon. The same grin that Kristal claimed to be immune to. "Hey barkeep, ya got any empty rooms upstairs?"

A jolt went through Kristal at Billy's words. What the hell did he mean by that? Her gaze watched the man behind the counter as he nodded and moved to a drawer. He pulled out a single key and slid it to Billy.

"It'll be two dollars a night," the slick man announced, "it'll be up the stairs, down the left hall. Last room, on the right."

Setting the money on the counter, Billy turned to her. "Let's go up stairs and have some fun, my sweet, Querida!" He took her hand and gently pulled her towards the stairs that led to the upper floor.

Kristal balked at first, surprised at the ruse he was trying to play off. This was not exactly what she thought he would think of. Hell, she didn't know what she thought he would think of but this was definitely not it. Her gaze slid down to the hand he had linked around hers and frowned. It felt strange, almost nice. He gently tugged again and she allowed herself to slide off the stool this time.

As her boots touched the ground, Kristal forced a smile that didn't quite reach her eyes. "This is ridiculous, Bonney," she hissed quietly. "This is not going to work."

Billy's grin didn't falter, if anything it lit up his eyes causing them to dance at her hesitation. "This time, it's you who needs to trust me." After he said that, he tugged on her arm pulling her into his embrace. It was hard not to let himself get too carried away. He wanted this to be real, but he had to remember it was all an act. "Laugh, giggle... something to make them think you like me an' you want to go with me," the blond whispered in her ear. "Ya gotta sell it, Kris or this will all be for nothin'."

The woman swallowed as Billy held her close to him. She felt his arm wrap around her waist just like it had earlier. Only earlier it had been protective. This time it felt almost possessive, like he wanted her. She hoped that was part of the ruse and not real. His words echoed through her mind and she frowned. Why was this so hard? She had easily teased men before. It wasn't hard to draw in a man with a little flirtation, some false smiles, and an offer of more. Only before, that all led up to her killing the man she toyed with. It never went anywhere further. Nor would this, she reasoned with herself. This didn't mean anything either. This was just Billy. It was all an act. Another ruse to fool the idiots in the room.

Taking a breath, she slid her arm up and around Billy's neck, "none o' this better go ta yer head" she whispered back. Plastering on a smile, she held Billy tight. "Lead the way, darlin'." Kristal spoke the words a bit louder, so those nearby could hear. The barkeep was one of them.

The blond boy chuckled and turned to head for the stairs. His hand held Kristal's tightly as he pulled her along, leading the way. The wooden stairs were on the far side of the room and the duo passed the sore losers who had been glaring at Billy. They whispered to each other as they watched, first the blond boy walk by and then Kristal.

"... we'll find him later. He's gonna pay for cheatin' us."

"Why don't we jus' go interrupt an' take his girl in the process. She's kinda purty."

"Much as I would love to have the little lady to ourselves, I don't want the law gettin' wind. We'll jus' wait till..."

The voice grew too distant for Kristal to hear further. The two men Billy had won against in the card game were indeed planning their revenge, but Kristal didn't get to hear what their plan was. She followed Billy up the stairs to the balcony that overlooked the bar below. There were more tables on the balcony for more patrons. Two hallways were on opposite sides of the balcony that led to the rooms for the working girls and for those who wanted a cheaper room than the hotel. Billy pulled Kristal along down the left hallway to the room at the far end.

It took less than a minute for Billy to unlock the door and lead them into the room. The boy closed the door behind him and locked it before turning to a glaring Kristal. What had he done now? "What?"

"I told ya that ya pissed them off. They're plannin' somethin'. They claim ya cheated 'em." Her gaze turned accusing as she stared at him. "I didn't get ta hear what their plan was though..."

"I don't cheat!" Billy replied vehemently. Seeing Kristal's eyebrows rise, he sighed. "I hate when folk think that. I've never cheated a day in my life. I'm jus' good I guess. Or lucky." He shrugged turning away from her to move to the bed. "Beside's I don't much care 'bout what they're planning. I'm gettin' hungry. And I owe you dinner."

With a sigh, Kristal glanced around the room. She didn't care if he did cheat, not really. However, she was surprised at his furtive response. He was adamant about not cheating which made her curious. How did he win so much?

That was the least of her problems at the moment though. The room had no other doors and the hallway didn't lead to another way out. "Alright then, tell me Bonney, how are we supposed to go eat when there ain't no other way out."

Rubbing a hand down his face, Billy glanced around. He was always taking note of escape routes but this time he had been far more focused on the feel of Kristal's hand in his own and the feel of her other hand around his neck. This woman did things to him and he hadn't been paying attention to the most important problem at hand, a way out. "What about the window?"

Kristal was already moving to it as he spoke. Unhooking the latch, the woman lifted the window and frowned. "Well, it's doable. But not gonna be easy." Turning to him, she shrugged, "at least this room is facing the back side of the saloon so everyone on the street won't notice us."

In a few strides, Billy left the bed to stand at Kristal's side looking out the window. There was a way down. A metal ladder was embedded into the wall to give access to the roof. The only problem was, it was about four feet from the window. "I did always like a challenge..." Billy said, his voice trailing off. It wasn't a lie, but this was going to be difficult. "Do you think you can do it?"

The question Billy asked tore her gaze away from the ladder and she turned to him. "I can do it," Kristal claimed before her eyes turned challenging, "can you?"

The smirk Billy had on his face before returned, "of course!" He might be a bit overconfident, but he wasn't about to be shown up by her. "Ladies first, unless you want me to go first so I can catch you if you fall."

His comment didn't even deem an answer. Kristal simply scoffed and pushed herself out the window and lifted herself to stand on the edge of the sill. The boots she was wearing were not very good at gripping, but she could not stop now. Gritting her teeth, Kristal bent her legs a little and jumped. The blonde knew immediately that her jump was off. Her boot had slipped which meant she didn't get her jump high enough or with enough power.

As she sailed through the air, her left arm reached out to try and grasp one of the metal rungs. Instead of her fingers wrapping around the metal step of the ladder, her wrist hit it hard. Pain spread through her arm and hand, but she ignored it. She was falling. Vaguely she heard Billy's voice call out to her in a hushed tone as she began to fall down. Scrambling, she grabbed for the next rung and her fingers found a hold. She breathed a sigh of relief before finding a hold for her booted foot.

With heart pounding, Kristal descended the ladder and then found the dirt of the earth beneath her. She was grateful to be back on the ground. However, her left wrist was screaming with pain. Peeling back the sleeve of her shirt, a grimace worked over her lips. The flesh near her wrist bone was a bright red and if she had to guess it looked like it was starting to swell. Twisting her wrist, she bit her lip at the pain that roared down her arm. She was pretty sure it wasn't broken, but it was definitely going to bruise.

"Kris!" Billy called out as he lowered himself to her side. "Querida, are you okay?" Her near fall had scared him out of his mind. He reached out to touch her shoulder, turning her to face him.

"I'm fine, Billy." Playing an injury off was easier than pretending to be infatuated with the man. "I slipped, but caught m'self. I'm okay."

Billy let out a worried breath and nodded. His gaze searched hers for the truth before he felt satisfied enough to release her. "Good. I'm glad. When your foot slipped I..." He didn't finish his thoughts because Kristal was already waving her right hand brushing his worry aside.

"I'm fine, Bonney." Her gaze ticked down to her boots. "Might need to get me some better boots sometime soon though." A corner of her mouth lifted into a smirk with the hope to alleviate Billy's worry and she hooked the thumb of her left hand in her pocket to keep from moving it too much.

"Well, if you say so." Billy appeared skeptical at first, eyeing her curiously before allowing his smile to return. "If you're good then, mind joinin' me for dinner. I'm awful hungry after that stunt."

Rolling her eyes, Kristal let out a small amused chuckle. "Sure. Let's go an' make sure ya don't die from hunger."

Green eyes watched as he offered her his left arm and she raised a brow at him. He merely waited patiently, unmoving. With a sigh, she curled her arm through his and rested her hand on his sleeve. Lifting her gaze to his face, her brows rose noticing the broad grin that brightened his face.

Taking his other hand, Billy rested it over Kristal's. "It is my honor and a great pleasure to have this evening with you Querida. I just wanted you to know that." His words were a bit husky and full of emotion. But before Kristal was able to tilt her head to him again, he started walking forward, "we should hurry! I forgot, I still wanna see the vaudeville show." With that said, the two hurried for the restaurant Billy had planned for their non-date.

************

The meal had been delicious. Billy wasn't wrong. This small Mexican Cafe had the best food she had ever tasted in her life. It was a quaint little place on the far side of town. Kristal was surprised to find the place to be rather busy. They were seated in the back of the dining room, away from the other seven tables in the room. A candle flickered between them mirroring the other lanterns in the room. The atmosphere could be considered romantic, especially with the soft music on the opposite side of the room. A man with a guitar, singing with a woman playing the piano.

Kristal lowered her gaze to her nearly empty plate and sighed. She was stuffed. In all her life, she had never eaten so much. Leaning back, her gaze lifted to Billy finding him watching her. "That was pro'lly the best food I've had in a long time. Much obliged for bringing me here."

"Told ya the food was good." Billy beamed, grateful to see that she had eaten an ample amount.

"Did I eat enough to put ya at ease?" Kristal queried, curious. "Enough to go back an' tell Doc and Chavez they can quit worryin' about me?"

A quick frown quirked at Billy's lips. He didn't want to talk about the other boys. This time was for them and them alone. "I doubt they'll stop worryin' about ya, Querida. We all care 'bout ya an' I think we have grown to have that right."

Lifting her water glass, Kristal stared at the clear liquid before letting out a sigh. "I suppose I can't stop ya from worryin'," the blonde woman said slowly. "I wish y'all wouldn't. I'm a grown woman. I can take care o' m'self."

"But ya shouldn't have to," Billy insisted. "What are friends for if not to annoy each other an' show we care even if it's irritatin' ya."

A soft chuckle left Kristal's lips, her gaze lingering on the water in the glass a moment longer before shifting to Billy. "Fair enough." Lifting her glass a little as if in a toast, she took a drink.

Billy did the same. After taking a drink, he figured now was as good a time as any to show her what he had found in the mercantile earlier. Reaching into his pocket, he pulled out a small box wrapped with a ribbon. "Here, I got this for ya." He set the box on the table and slid it over to her.

The wrapped box caused Kristal's eyes to narrow. What the hell was this? At first her mind went wild with crazy thoughts, but then she realized that the box was too big to hold a ring. Thank goodness, she thought relief filling her. Still, her sharp eyes stared at the box and the pretty ribbon on top as if it might bite her. "What... is..." she paused unable to say anything further.

"Just a little gift. Open it." The boy, as usual, was watching her with bright blue eyes careful to watch every move and detail. He was nearly giddy with excitement, wanting her to open the box.

Again she hesitated, her eyes returning to the box. To her gifts were not given out of the goodness of someone's heart. Gifts were given only when she did something right. Or because they wanted something in return. The only time she had been given anything in her life was when the old Mexican from Belle's gang gave her a hat. The very same hat she still wore today. That hat held meaning and was important to her because it was given freely by someone who had shown kindness.

"Bonney... I don't... ya didn't..." Kristal paused flabbergasted. "I didn't do nothin' to deserve whatever this is."

"It's a gift, Querida. Ya don't need to have done anything. I saw it and thought of you." Again Billy grinned waiting for her reaction.

Those words made Kristal blink. He saw it and thought of her? Why? What did he want in return? She pushed the gift back. "I don't need nothin' Bonney. I don't know why ya wanna give me anything... but..."

"Kris please," Billy's expression faltered a little as he pressed the box forward again. His excitement was waning. He didn't realize she would react this way towards a gift. "Please, Querida. It ain't nothin' crazy. I just wanted to get it for ya 'cause I thought you'd like it."

Sighing Kristal continued to stare at the box. Billy's pleas were wearing her down. Biting her lip, her hands moved slowly towards the box. Her left wrist still hurt, so she had to be careful with using it which meant utilizing her right hand more. Holding the box steady with her left hand, she pulled at the ribbon. Every movement she took, she could feel Billy's eyes watching her. Once the ribbon was freed, she lifted the lid and gaped at the contents. For a moment she simply stared in shock. "Are these...?" She stopped and shook her head in disbelief. "But I didn't win the game..."

The blue eyed boy was smiling ear to ear at her reaction. "I know. But I saw 'em at the mercantile and I couldn't help myself. 'Sides ya nearly beat me. Ya deserve it for comin' so close durin' your first time playing hide 'n seek." Billy shrugged, feeling a little sheepish, "I wanted ya ta have 'em Kris. And before ya ask, 'cause I know you, there ain't no strings attached. They're yours jus' 'cause."

Speechless, Kristal picked up a small round brown ball between her thumb and index finger. She stared at the delicate chocolate truffle, her mouth watering at the sight. "I can't believe ya did this..." She whispered, staring at the decadent chocolate. "I lost. Ya didn't need ta do this, Billy. I'm okay with losin'." Even still, this gift was so thoughtful and unexpected. He didn't want anything in return. He got it because he was being thoughtful. This simple gesture touched her beyond measure.

"I know I didn't. An' I know ya are. Ya took the loss better'n I would'a." Billy couldn't explain it. When he had seen the box of chocolates in the mercantile, a thrill went through him. He couldn't buy the box fast enough. All he could think about was seeing the look of happiness on Kristal's face again. Hopefully he'd get a smile like he had during the game of hide 'n go seek. "I wanted to get them for you. I wanted to get my friend something special."

Green eyes drifted from the chocolate between her fingers to Billy. Her brows drew together a little trying to understand what he meant by that. Why did it feel like he really meant something else? Something more heartfelt and emotional. Silence echoed out as she turned her eyes back on the chocolate. She couldn't hold back anymore. It had been so long since she last had a chocolate she almost forgot what it tasted like.

Bringing the small round truffle to her lips, Kristal took a small bite, all too aware that Billy was again watching her every move. The chocolate melted in her mouth and an explosion of sweet velvety flavor erupted against her tastebuds. She didn't even realize she had closed her eyes as she savored the creamy sweetness. It wasn't too sweet, but a perfect mild tone of cocoa and hints of vanilla.

"Well, what d'ya think?" Billy queried, his eyes moving off her lips. Watching her taste the truffle made him long to kiss her once more and he had to advert his eyes elsewhere. Yet, he was eager to know if the truffles were as good as she remembered.

"They're delicious. They're jus' like I remember... melting in yer mouth... a smooth creamy warmth." Kristal's voice was a purr as she spoke.

Her soft tone was the sweetest Billy had ever heard from her before. It made his stomach do little flips despite the dinner he had just scarfed down. "I'm glad you like 'em." His words were genuine and filled with delight.

"It's been so long..." Kristal's gaze opened and found Billy's. "This is..." here she paused unsure how to phrase the emotions she was feeling. He had moved her more deeply than anyone had before. "This was incredibly sweet, Billy. Ya didn't have ta do this... but thank ya."

A smile broke out on her face, unlike any Billy had seen before. This one was small, but sweet and it reached her eyes. He had evoked some kind of emotional response inside her and it thrilled him. This smile alone gripped his heart and made it pound with longing. More than ever before, he realized he wanted her to be his and his alone.

"It's my pleasure, Kristal," he breathed back, his own emotions springing forth. "Your reaction is my reward." Damn, that sounded corny even to him. "I'm glad you like them," he quickly added.

"I do," the blonde said slowly, her head tilting slightly as if considering his words. "They're heavenly, Billy. Try one." Pressing the box of truffles towards him, she raised an expectant brow.

"I can't do that. They're yours. I got 'em for you." Blue eyes glanced down at the box, "besides, if I have one you'll only have four left." He was disappointed that they didn't have bigger boxes of the chocolates, but the mercantile had only carried boxes that held a half dozen truffles inside them. They were more costly than he would have originally guessed too.

Kristal rolled her eyes. "It's not like I'm askin' ya ta eat 'em all. I'd have ta fight ya if ya tried, anyway." She was joking of course, but she was looking forward to savoring them later. "'Sides, ya'll help me keep my girlish figure."

Billy could tell she was still joking but he shook his head. "Ain't nothin' gonna take away from your figure, Kris. It's perfect." He spoke without thinking. Damn, how did she always manage to get him to say the things on his mind without thinking first. Yet at the same time, Billy knew she would not appreciate his wayward mouth. He had to bite his tongue before he commented further about how he'd probably like it if she fought him over some of the chocolates.

Green eyes blinked at him several times in surprise. Kristal was speechless. She didn't know what to say to that. Normally she would have a smart ass remark, but the sweet gesture of the gift had thrown her off kilter. Swallowing, Kristal began to wonder how much attention Billy actually spent on her for him to notice her figure. "Um..." she finally began trying to move past how awkward she suddenly felt. "Jus' try one, Bonney. I'm curious as ta what ya might think."

That was not the response Billy had been expecting. He had begun to brace himself for a tongue lashing. But it never came. Surprise flickered over his features and he turned his gaze on the box of chocolates she was offering him. With a forced sigh, Billy gave into her request and picked up a tear shaped chocolate. "Never had chocolate before," he mused before popping the small truffle into his mouth.

As he chewed, the chocolate melted in his mouth. With raised brows he lifted cornflower colored eyes to her, surprised by the taste. "Well, shit! That is pretty damn good."

"See!" Kristal exclaimed a smile forming on her lips again. This smile was brighter, wider and full of glee. "Ain't too sweet. They melt in yer mouth."

Billy chuckled while marveling at the different smile's she had given him that evening. "I like my candy sweet. Sweeter 'n this. But they are good. I can't believe I ain't ever had them before."

"Blasphemy!" Kristal gasped, her mouth dropping open in shock! "They're perfect." She threw her cloth napkin at him playfully. "I take offense ta that."

Throwing up his hands, Billy laughed, pleasantly surprised by this playful side of Kristal. "I don't mean to offend. They are really good. I just like sweeter candies."

"Yeah, like what?"

"Well," Billy began with a shrug, " rock candy's my favorite. But I like them candy sticks, taffy, gumdrops and the like. Anything with lots of sugar." He had a soft spot for anything that was really sweet. "My momma used ta make the best cookies. I miss 'em."

"I bet they were mouthwaterin'." Just like chocolates were, in her opinion. "Believe it or not, I've made cookies 'afore. A cake once too. It ain't as hard as cookin' in my opinion, an' they turned out decent." One batch had been a little over cooked, she remembered, but the rest were rather good. "At least those in the... Uh... gang," she whispered so no one would hear them, "liked 'em. I didn't make a habit of it though. Belle tol' me not to spoil the boys."

As hard as he tried to contain it, a scoff escaped Billy's mouth. He really didn't like that old nag that raised Kristal, but he didn't want to lose her good mood by discussing Belle. "I bet they were good. Not sure if we'll ever have the chance, but I'd love some of your baked cookies. Makin' my mouth water just thinkin' about it."

A soft chuckle sounded and Kristal shook her head, "these truffles are much better'n my cookies, Billy. But," her gaze lifted to the man, green eyes soft, "if we ever get the chance, I might consider makin' 'em for ya." She paused, her eyes searching his features before dropping back to the box of chocolates. "Anyway, thank ya fer these. It was a thoughtful and unexpected gift."

Hiding the emotion that threatened to overflow from his chest, Billy managed a nod. "Its my pleasure, Querida." His voice was soft, the overwhelming emotion of the moment affecting him more than he cared to admit. "Ya deserve it."

"I ain't so sure about that, but I won't deny likin' the gift." She didn't just like it, she loved it. The gesture was so thoughtful she had a feeling she might just cherish it for always.

Kristal offered him another truffle and Billy politely declined. He didn't want to take all her chocolates. Instead he watched her eat another, entranced by her. After a few minutes, Billy checked his watch. They still had some  time to kill before the vaudeville show.

The music caught his attention and he watched them play, quietly tapping his finger to the tune. After a moment of quiet, he turned back to Kris a question on his mind. "Kris, I'm curious about somethin'..." When she lifted her eyes to him he almost lost what he was about to say. Damn, her natural beauty was captivating. The glow of the candle in her eyes reminded him of a warm fire among the greenest forest. It felt like home to him. It was a feeling he had not had since his mother passed away. "I..." He began almost forgetting what he was about to say, "I remember that Belle took ya in right? What happened to your parents?"

As she finished off the truffle in her mouth, she leaned forward to prop her elbows on the table. Kristal then proceeded to rest her chin on the palm of her hand. "I honestly don't know." She shrugged and glanced at a spot on the floor. "Belle always told me they abandoned me. Left me for dead. Sam said it was 'cause I was a burden. That... my parents didn't want me..." The woman shook her head before lifting her gaze back to Billy. "Never quite set right with me, but not much I can do about it. It ain't like I remember them. I don't even know their names."

A spark of anger burned in Billy's gut. Maybe he shouldn't have asked. He didn't want to ruin the evening. Yet, Kristal didn't seem upset, just a little forlorn.

A sigh escaped Kristal's lips as she tilted her gaze upwards. "Belle said she found me with nothin' more'n a blanket wrapped 'round me. The blanket had m' name sewn into it. So, I at least know m' first name." Her gaze grew distant, as if she was thinking of something. "I still have that blanket. It's old an' fallin' apart. But it's in m' old room back at Belle's homestead."

"Never thought ya were sentimental, Querida." Billy commented with a smirk, unsure of anything else to respond to. What she said would upset anyone. Yet, Kristal acted like none of it bothered her. He knew different though. He could see it in her eyes.

Again, Kristal shrugged, not quite looking at him. "Maybe I am a little. It's all I got of m' blood family." The woman's brows knit together and she fiddled with her cloth napkin. "I had to hide the damn thing anyway... Belle kept tryin' ta get rid of it. Says I shouldn't care 'bout folks that left me for dead."

"That ain't right. How would she know for sure that they left for dead? Anything could have happened." Billy responded defensively while trying to hide his irritation with the older Starr woman and failing.

"I dunno... Sometimes I wonder if Belle knows more'n she lets on." It was a suspicion that Kristal had for a while. "Anyway, I eventually had to hide the blanket in my room. Along with everything else I didn't want taken from me."

Billy was curious now and not just about the things Kristal hid away. He wanted to know why the blonde was suspicious of Belle's knowledge about her being abandoned. But he felt the safer question was to ask about the trinkets she hid away. "Like what?"

Appearing thoughtful, Kristal pressed her lips together considering what to tell Billy. "Well, I got a fountain pen an' a leather notebook in there..."

Before she could continue, Billy interrupted. "Do ya write in it? Like all your personal thoughts?"

Kristal scoffed, finding that to be absurd. If it was found, she'd be a dead woman. "Hell naw. It's mostly nonsense. Some lyrics from a song, a few poems... Thoughts for a story." She shook her head, "tried drawing too... I'm terrible at it, so that was short lived."

"Well, now aren't you a sophisticate!" Billy teased with a smile, finding this information to be a pleasant surprise. He wanted to read that notebook of hers, if she ever let him. "Songs, poems, stories... Even some illustrations. What can't ya do, Kris?"

The man laughed when she shot him an irritated glance. "Sorry, couldn't help myself." He waved a hand at her before urging her to continue, "what else ya got hidden away?"

The blonde paused and for a moment, Billy worried that Kristal wouldn't answer. He hadn't offended her, had he?

"Well," Kristal finally began again. Her tone was hesitant. She sounded unsure of whether she wanted to share her personal information with him. "I have more of the tribes symbolic beads and feathers..." Her hand went to the strand of hair that was wrapped with dyed thread and beads. The feather that was half hidden by her hair shifted as she played with the decorated strand. "Each bead was given to me special... They have meanin' behind 'em. So do the feathers..."

Surprise flickered in Billy's eyes at this knowledge. He might not be the biggest fan of the natives, but he found this information to be interesting. "Like what?"

"Well," Kristal began and pointed to the bead closest to the nape of her neck, which was the color of the sky when a storm was thundering in. "This one was given to me by the chief's wife. I saved her son from drowning. Had no idea how to swim myself, but I learned real quick." She then moved her hand to the next bead down which was a brownish-red color, "this one was given to me by the master hunter of the tribe. First time I joined the hunt. Women were not usually allowed to go. But since I was a white girl and an outsider, they didn't care. Figured I'd pro'lly die anyway. I proved my worth. I didn't bring home the largest kill, but I did bring home the bobcat that had been plaguing the tribe by killing their smaller livestock."

Moving down to the next bead, this one had Kristal sighing. It was a pure white bead, that had a swirl of black in it. "This one was from the one an' only time I've ever gotten sick. I was so sick, they thought I was going to die. The medicine man said I burned like a fire raged inside me. Said no one should ever be so hot. Ilyani worried somethin' fierce. She took me down to the creek every day and laid me in it's cold waters. My fever lasted five long days. The tribe figured the white man's sickness had finally come for me to take me to the great beyond." Kristal smirked remembering the look on the Chief's face when she survived. "The chief claimed even death didn't want me." To most it would sound like an insult, but the old man had meant it out of respect. It was a proud moment for her. "The medicine man gave it to me after."

Scarred fingers shifted to the bottom bead. It was a charcoal grey color. This one had Kristal pausing. The blonde bit her lip and looked like she wasn't going to say anything more.

"If ya don't wanna speak of it, I'll understand," Billy offered, reaching over and placing his hand on top of hers.

The gesture was a comforting one and yet, her gaze flickered down to where his hand covered hers. It felt strange. But thoughts of her old tribe pushed the feeling aside. "No, ya wanted ta know... I've come this far." Taking a deep breath, Kristal fingered the last bead with her free hand. "This one... This was the last bead I ever got. It was from Ilyani White Dove's daughter..."

Again Kristal hesitated, but not for long. "Ri'atha Silver Wing was pregnant. Her bonded... which would be like her husband, had died months before. In the tribe, when a woman is pregnant, they don't see the medicine man, they see..." Kristal paused trying to think of the word in her language for what the tribe called the woman who aided in pregnancies. "I suppose it'd be like a midwife in our tongue. Anyway, she was havin' problems. Ri'atha was gettin' weaker an' weaker by the moment an' she was in so much pain. No one knew what to do for her. Belle happened to be there droppin' me off when this was goin' on and told the midwife that Ri'atha was dyin'. Belle explained that someone should just put the woman out of her misery. Nobody would because she still has not given birth. Belle didn't care one wit either way. Guess she figured Ri'atha would end up dying from giving birth."

"Two days after Belle left, Ri'atha finally managed to give birth to Mai'thea. It had been a long and painful delivery an'... There was so much blood." Kristal had never seen so much blood coming from one person, not even when she tortured Belle's enemies. She remembered that it had actually frightened her. "Ri'atha was so weak after... Everyone believed she was going to die soon after the delivery. But days went by and Ri'atha continued to live. However, she was in excruciating pain. She would cry out all day long for someone to end her life. But the tribe could not kill one of their own when no crime had been committed. It was their law. Yet, Ri'atha cried out day after day."

Here Kristal stopped again, biting her lower lip. She blinked down at Billy's hand, still over hers and sighed.

Billy held his breath. He didnt want to say anything. If he did, he feared she might not continue. That his voice would break whatever concentration Kristal had on her story. Instead, he rubbed his thumb gently over her hand. A silent vow of comfort, to let her know he was there for her and that she could continue.

"I went inta her tent every evenin' ta bring Ri'atha water. It was hard seein' her the way she was, weak, pale like a ghost, her eyes all sunken in. She used ta be the prettiest of all the tribe's women. Due ta her pain she had become nothin' more'n a shell. One evenin', when I was givin' her water, Ri'atha grabbed my hand, begging me to end her. She claimed that as an outsider I wasnt bound by their laws."

Kristal shook her head, "she was right. Even though the tribe accepted me, I was never one of them." Her grip tightened on the beaded strands of her hair, "I remember Ri'atha pulled two beads from her hair and handed them to me. She told me that one was for her daughter, to carry on their legacy. The other was for me, to show my bravery in the face of such agony and uncertainty."

Closing her eyes, Kristal's hand tightened into a fist beneath Billy's. "When I left her, I went and collected all the plants I needed to make a poison. One that I knew would... Well, it would help her sleep and then slowly stop her heart. That very same night, I slipped itnot her water an' by mornin', she Ri'atha was... gone."

Billy was stunned. Another skill in Kristal's impressive repertoire, however, the blonde did not sound proud of it. If anything she was deeply morose and sullen. A great many questions sprang to Billy's mind, but he only spoke one. The one he was most curious about. "How old were you?"

"Twelve."

Billy reeled back in shock. "How... Why?" He shook his head not understanding or maybe he didn't want to believe she had been so young. "How could anyone allow a twelve year old..." He stopped unable to finish what he was going to say. She had been so young to deliver such a fatal choice.

"I always did act older'n what I was. Belle made sure of that." Kristal lifted her gaze to Billy and shook her head. "And the tribe could see that too. They taught me things that many of the other children my age didn't learn." She was not about to add that she wasn't allowed to be around most of the children. She doubted Billy would appreciate that. "I did what I had to, Billy. No one else could. As hard as it might be, Ri'atha was no longer in pain or suffering. I couldn't let her continue to suffer. Not when I knew how ta ease her pain."

It had been a hard choice. One not made lightly. But she knew she would do it again if it came down to it.

"It ain't that, Kris... It's just... They were all adults an' you just a kid. They let ya deal with it. Let you behave as an adult should." It was still hard to fathom. Kristal had been so young and aided a dying woman to her death in a quicker and easier way, when it should have been an adult's responsibility. "I knew ya grew up way too fast... But now, I... hell that's a lot for a kid."

Kristal shrugged for the hundredth time it seemed, "I didn't have no ordinary upbringing. At least whatever the hell ordinary is... I don't even know."

"Yeah, I think I understand that a lot more now," Billy answered back. It made him want to protect Kristal even more. Yet, he knew she didn't need protection. She was far stronger than he even thought.

Clearing his throat, Billy's gaze slid over Kristal's features. His eyes wandered to her hair and the beads that were threaded into her hair. Reaching forward, he lifted the feather hanging from the thread and tied to the strands of hair. She kept it hidden at the base of her neck and it was hardly noticeable when her hair was down. "What about the feather? Ya said that has meaning too?"

"I... yeah I did." The blonde stared at Billy, a little wide eyed at the bold gesture. "The feather is allowed to be worn when a brave fights for his tribe." Kristal shook her head, she had noticed how Billy didn't seem too thrilled with what she had said before about Ri'atha and the poison. So, maybe she shouldn't tell him this story too. Especially when this story was so fresh in her mind. "Ya don't really want to hear it."

"Yeah I really do," Billy insisted. He may not like the things Kristal had gone through, but he did want to hear about them. He wanted to hear about her. Since the moment they met he had been trying to get her to open up to him. It had been slow in coming, but she was finally talking about herself. And as hard as it might be, he loved learning about her.

A heavy sigh escaped Kristal's lips and she turned to gaze at the fire. "Fine... To become a brave, ya gotta be at least sixteen years old. And... a male." Chewing on the edge of her lip, Kristal gave a half shrug, "I was only one of those things. Anyway, the tribe had been havin' problems with a nearby town. This town weren't no ordinary town neither. It was an outlaw town. Run by outlaws. There were regular every day citizens sure, but they paid the gang to leave 'em alone. The gang however, got it in its head they were gonna start shit with the tribe. They started harassin' them for months on end. Destoryin' crops, killin' livestock. Then they grabbed three of their women. One of which, was a friend. And as you know, I don't got many of them anymore."

Kristal paused as if the memory was still fresh. Her gaze hardened on the candle flame, all other sounds from the restaurant faded, as she relived the scene over again. "The gang, they tortured the women, forced 'em to do the unthinkable... Bastards treated 'em like they were animals. That gang were the damn animals." She took a deep breath before continuing, "the tribe was done taking the harassment. They weren't a very large tribe, but they formed a party of about two dozen braves. I told 'em I wanted to be a part of it. They wouldn't have it. Not only was I a woman but not of the People. I was not bound by blood."

"As ya can imagine, I was none too happy. I went to the town, and they welcomed me, knowin' I was Belle's daughter. The Starr Gang was widely known in those parts and partly respected. It wasn't till I found my friend, tied to a post in the middle of town, half naked that I nearly lost it. I demanded she be released but they laughed. Thought I was out of mind. Their leader told me if I went near her again, he'd shoot Par'liani in the head. Bastard thought that'd keep me from 'em. It was a good thing he didn't know what I was capable of. I waited till they were all drunk and liberated all three of the women." She didn't add the number of outlaws she killed in order to free the native women.

"The tribe was joyous to have their women back. However, the next morning, the outlaws were mad as hell and attacked the tribe. They took even more women and killed many others." Kristal had to stop to keep her emotions from getting the better of her. Some of those outlaws were still out there waiting for her vengeance. "I went to the chief again and demanded that he let me join the braves. This time White Dove spoke on my behalf. The chief agreed to let me join, but refused to call me a brave. I didn't care. I just wanted to kill me some outlaws. The next night, dressed like the other braves, I went to the town. It was massacre. I don't even know how many I killed, but I had blood all over me. We tried to find the women that they took. My friend, Par'liani was among them again. When we found them, they were bound to a pyre in the middle o' town, burned... to death. The fire... was still burning when we showed up."

The wild blonde closed her eyes at the memory. It had been like a knife piercing her stomach when she had seen all those women tied up like animals. "Seein' that set somethin' off inside me. Every white man I saw, I killed." Kristal frowned remembering how hard it had been to stop. The blood lust she felt, the vengeance she wanted... that she still wanted for those that got away.

"Damn... " Billy breathed, trying to imagine Kristal snapping. The thought caused a chill to crawl up his spine, and a thrill in his stomach. God what was wrong with him? "What about the families? The children? Those regular citizens?" Billy had horror stricken on his face, fear the innocent lives. "They weren't part of this massacre were they?"

"What?! No, course not. I made sure to warn them in advance. They knew to stay inside or get gone." Kristal was a little surprised to see Billy get so upset. Did he really think she'd kill innocent people? Guilt shifted through her at that thought but she shook her head to make it go away. "Only ones runnin' rampant through town were the outlaw gang an' their whores. An' I weren't sorry ta see 'em end up in a pool o' their own blood."

Kristal was unapologetic when it came to whores. Especially those who incited violence and ridiculed the natives. She refused to look at Billy, though. She didn't want to see disappointment on his face. "When we got back to the tribe, they told me I was a full fledged member and made me a brave. The honor was... special to me. Important. I finally felt like I was one of them. That's when I was given this. Got a few other tokens too and a couple weapons. I was given official say in the tribe after that. Didn't last long though..." The woman swallowed hard and her jaw tightened.

"What d'ya mean it didn't last long?" Billy was still trying to grasp the fact that Kristal had massacred an entire town with a tribe of Indians. What was worse, he was imagining her dressed as one of them with blood all over... Damn, just the thought was making his temperature rise. It was an image he very much would have liked to see in person which helped him to overlook the fact that Kristal had killed whores along side the outlaws. The outlaws deserved the fate they received. And yet, the idea of Kristal all fired up, looking like an Indian Brave, covered in blood.... He had to turn away from her for a second to regain his composure. He didn't need her seeing the wanton look in his eyes.

"A story for another time, Billy. Ain't it gettin' late? I thought ya wanted to see that vaudeville show?"

The blond boy knew what she was doing. She was diverting attention away from her. A skill she was very talented at. But not this time. "C'mon Kris, we got time. Por favor, mi Querida?"

Green eyes flashed from the candle onto Billy and a pained frown pulled at her mouth. "Ya ain't gonna like it, so it's better ya don't know."

That meant it had something to do with Belle. She had picked up on his dislike for the woman. He felt it was justified though. Belle was a bitch and Kristal deserved better. "So, it's about Belle then?" Billy pressed. "See, I already know that much, might as well tell me the rest."

The two stared each other in the eyes. Billy's pleading and Kristal's a turmoil of emotions.  "God damnit Billy!" Kristal finally relented in quiet exasperation. "Fine... Belle found out 'bout the town bein' massacred. She also got wind that I had been a large part of it. Nearly two weeks later, Belle took me away from the tribe like her damn ass was on fire. Next thing I know, the army came to the tribe an..." God the emotion was back. She thought she had managed to conceal it deep inside. Emotion was weakness. Instead of anguish, she channeled the emotion into anger. Anger was easier. "They were destroyed. Every man, woman an' child... Just gone. The whole village was a pile o' embers an' smoke when I managed to make it back. I didn't find no one alive." A muscle tensed in Kristal's jaw, so much for keeping her emotions in check. "I know Belle was the one what told 'em to go after the tribe. It was her own damn tribe an' she betrayed 'em." Just like Belle had done to Kristal. It was a hard pill to swallow.

"I don't understand Kris..." Billy's voice was soft, full of sympathy. "Why have you not left her sooner? After all that she's done to you, to her own kin? She doesn't deserve your loyalty." He didn't criticize or accuse, just questioned her loyalty to a woman who showed none in return.

It was hard for Kristal to not wince at Billy's question. "She's all I know, Billy. Until Tunstall, I ain't had anyone else. No one else cared. Not since I lost the tribe. That was two goddamned years ago." Kristal knew it was foolish to stay with Belle. But what else could she have done? Belle had created a killer and a thief.  The law was actively looking for her and wanted her to pay. It was safer to be in Belle's gang... Until it wasn't. Until Belle unleashed the army on her own tribe. And allowed Ace to try and take advantage of her. And then shot her own 'daughter' and left her for dead.

"Well things are different now. You got lots of folk that care 'bout you and want only the best for ya." Billy's gaze caught hers and held it. He hoped to portray his worry, desperation, and how much he cared into the look in his eyes. "Ya got Charlie, Doc, Steve, Chavez and... well, me." He smiled at her when he added, "ya even got Charlie's new wife an' Alex's an' that seamstress in Lincoln."

"Mrs. Ellis," Kristal clarified with a small smile of her own, remembering the woman's kindness towards her.

"Yeah, see! You ain't alone no more! We're all here for ya, Querida. We don't want to see nothin' bad happen to ya. And if ya go back to Belle..." He hesitated not liking that idea at all. It filled him with dread. He feared that if she went back it would destroy her. "I'll admit, that scares me... What she'll do to ya. That you'll be stuck an' she'll end up gettin' ya killed."

Brows knit together as Kristal listened to his fears. She understood them, but she also knew that Billy didn't understand what would happen if she didn't return. Shaking her head, Kristal broke eye contact with him, "it ain't that easy Billy. If I don't, she'll go after everyone I care about. That's what she did with the tribe... I can't go through that again... I can't... I'm tired o' losin' people I care about. "

Seeing the fear and worry on Kristal's face, caused Billy's brows to raise. This was a rare moment where she was letting him see into her heart. Reaching forward, he took her hand into his own, "Querida, I promise you, nothin's gonna happen to any of us... Not because of her. We're stronger'n ya like ta think. And so are you. You've become so much stronger now that ya ain't under her thumb no more. She can't hurt us, as long as we got each other. We're a hell of a team, you an' me... an' the others." He didn't want to add the others, but knew he needed to. Now was not the time to scare her away with his personal feelings.

A war of thoughts ran rampant in Kristal's mind. But her fears of losing all of them kept slipping to the top. "I thought the same thing 'bout the tribe. They were small but strong, especially t'gether. Belle still took 'em out."

Billy sighed, unsure how to get through to her. "Querida, listen to me... we all know how crooked the law can be. We know what bein' back stabbed and betrayed is like. Ya got Wilkes keepin' an ear on Belle. You're already a step ahead of her. You don't need Belle. And she sure as hell don't need you workin' for her." He paused a moment to gather up the courage to speak what he really wanted to tell her. "Promise me, Querida, just one thing. Don't ever go back to Belle. Whatever you do, whatever you decide... If it's ta stay with all of us or to go out on your own, just don't go back to her."

Surprise lit her eyes at Billy's request. She didn't know if she could do that. How many times had she wrestled with going back and staying away. And after learning about what Belle had done using Ace to make her try and hate men, she thought she had made up her mind. But as always, her fear for those she cared about crept back up. She didn't want to lose her friends. "Billy..." She shook her head. "I dunno if I can do that... I dunno what I'm gonna do, but..."

"Please, Kris," Billy interrupted. "You can do whatever you want. Just don't go back to her. She's ruined your life. Treated you like shit, all for her own gain. She tried to make you hate men by letting that bastard..." He swore purposely letting out his breath to not get all worked up again. "You deserve better, Querida. You don't deserve that kind of life."

Blinking, Kris watched Billy, her head tilting slightly in curiosity. He was getting so worked up on her behalf. His passion for her deserving a better life was oddly sweet. "I..." She paused about to argue with him some more. But if anything, hadn't the past months taught her anything? They had lived through all kinds of hell. Running from both the law and bounty hunters. She had survived Belle's betrayal and was now sitting with Billy having dinner. This was nice. Maybe... Just maybe, Billy was right. Going back really wasn't an option anymore. She had other choices. Much better ones. "Maybe yer right, Billy..."

The worry that has been creasing at Billy's brow faded away at her words. "Damn straight I'm right!" He was grinning now, hoping she was going to agree to his promise. "She'll be just fine without ya, Kris. 'Sides, we all need ya more. An' we want ya ta stick around with us."

That was not something she had ever had before. Being needed and wanted for being herself and not for what she could do for others. It felt good. "It'll be interestin'. I'll always have to be one step ahead of her if I don't go back."

Billy's grin never wavered, "does that mean yer gonna promise then?"

The fear threatened to overtake her again, but Billy squeezed her hand, giving her comfort and assurance that he was there. That he was there to support her. "A'right... Yeah... I promise ta not go back to Belle."

"That's music to my ears," Billy said, letting out a breath of relief. God did that ease his heart knowing she wouldn't be putting herself in that woman's dangerous clutches anymore. He also knew that Kristal was true to her word. If she promised him, she would not be going back. "Ya know what it's like without them now. There's so many other options ya can do."

Kristal scoffed, amused by his statement, "yeah? Like what? What can a woman like me do?"

"I'm sure there's something. You're smart an' capable." Billy's words were confident. He believed in her.  "Or... You know... You can stay with us. With me. Either way, you can do whatever the hell ya put your mind to. You're a strong woman, Kris. I admire that. You do what you want and ain't no one gonna deter you." He looked down at his hand over hers. The warmth of her spread through him and he longed for more. "I'm glad ya ain't gonna go back, Querida. That is a huge weight off my shoulders."

Kristal finally tilted her gaze down at his hand wrapped around hers. She didn't even realize he had taken her hand into his own. "Well, I did say it weren't really an option..." she stated absentmindedly. And yet it had seemed like her only option until Billy helped her figure out other possibilities. "Still ain't sure what I'm gonna do, but first things first... Dealin' with the assholes who killed Tunstall."

Billy loved how this woman was constantly on the same page as him. They had similar thoughts. Maybe if he made it through all this bullshit, he would seek a future with Kristal. He was persistent enough. Maybe in time he could wear her down and she could see that they were made for each other. "I agree. We got shit to deal with. But even after that, ya can stay with me... Along with whoever else. Maybe Steve might? Chavez is too eager to leave. And Charlie and Doc both got sweethearts now."

A chuckle sounded from Kristal's direction. "Jus' cause they got sweethearts, Bonney, don't mean they ain't yer friends no more." She then heaved a sighed, "but I do know what ya mean. I guess we'll see what happens..."

"Agreed!" He checked his pocket watch and his eyes went wide. "Shit! The vaudeville show is starting right now!" He jolted out of his seat and pulled Kristal up with him. "C'mon!"

"I told ya it was gettin' late." Amusement lit the blonde's face as she tucked her chocolates into her jacket. She watched as Billy tossed some money onto the table and grabbed her hand again. Before she knew it, she was being pulled along behind him.

The duo rushed to the little theater where the show was being held only to be told they were too late. They were not allowing any one else to enter. Disappointment crept into Billy's eyes and his shoulders sagged as they walked away.

The street was dark as they walked with an occasional flicker of a lantern post strewn periodically along the street. A few people were walking along the street, most heading for the saloon down the road. Music and laughter, cursing and revelry sounded from the lively saloon.

"I can't believe we missed it!" Billy sounded so disheartened that it tugged at Kristal's heart. He kicked at an invisible rock, his frustration palpable.

"Ain't it here for a few days?" Kristal asked, glancing back at the muted music coming from the building.

"Yeah... What about it?"

A sigh left Kristal's lips, and she couldn't even believe she was about to suggest this, not when they needed to get back to Fort Sumner. But yet, here she was... "Well, ya did say ya wanted to spend another day here... So, why don't we go tomorrow?"

The light returned in Billy's eyes as he stared at her in surprise. "Really? Ya'd be okay with that? Ya'd do it for me?"

"I do wanna get back, but I can see how much ya wanna see the show. So, if ya wanna see it that much, we can stay."

Billy let out a loud whoop of glee and then wrapped his arms around her, hugging her close. "You're a dream, Kristal, mi Querida!" He kissed her cheek before releasing her. He took his hat off and threw it in the air, "I get to see the vaudeville show!"

The reaction Billy gave brought Kristal to a halt. Her eyebrows were both raised high as she watched him skip ahead, whistling happily. What had just happened? She still felt his warmth around her from his hug and her cheek tingled where he had kissed her. What the hell was going on? What was wrong with her?

Billy stopped about ten paces ahead of her, realizing she wasn't following. He didn't even realize that his actions might have stunned her. He was too giddy on being able to see the show to notice Kristal's odd reaction. "You okay, Querida?"

"Oh... Uh yeah, think I'm jus' gettin' tired." Rubbing at her arm awkwardly, she strolled towards him easily catching up. "Pro'lly should get to bed..."

"I'll walk ya!" Billy offered his arm to her and was rather pleased at how easily she took it now. She didn't even hesitate this time.

The two walked to the hotel and straight up to Kristal's room. "I suppose I'll see ya in the mornin', Querida."

Kristal merely nodded and he started to walk away. "Billy," Kristal called out to him. When he stopped and turned around, she gave him a small but real smile. "Thanks for dinner an' m' truffles... I had a good time tonight."

Billy grinned and boldy stated, "anytime with you, Kris, is a good time." The boy then added with a wink, "tomorrow will be just as grand as tonight!" It sounded like a promise. He then turned and whistled as he walked down the hall.

Kristal shut the door before he was gone and leaned against it. Her emotions were a jumbled mess inside her. Why had she agreed to stay another night? Billy that's why. The look on Billy's face had tore at her. Was this what happened when friends cared for each other? They wanted to see each other happy? What a strange feeling? But seeing Billy happy had lifted her own spirits. And damn did it feel good! Her own heart felt lighter and happier. Lifting her hand to the spot on her cheek where Billy had kissed her, Kristal felt her stomach so a little flip. The spot still tingled slightly from his touch. The corner of her lip twitched in a hint of a smile as she sat down on the bed preparing to relax for the rest of the night.