January 1, 1901

Tombstone. 

I walked into town this afternoon and saw Downy in front of the clinic. I asked what was going on and Jy told me that people got shot. 

“During the daylight? That’s a new one. Better go in there and find out who did it. Unless ya need me to telegram for a doc.” 

“Trin, is that you out there?” Steve called out from inside the clinic. 

“Looks like I’m being summoned.” I said and walked into the clinic, looking arond. “Steve, Kris, Stormy and Lot... With Downy sitting outside. Don’t take much to figure out what happened here,” I commented. 

“How about we deputize Trin to take Lot in?” Steve asked. 

“Trin, can ya cuff Lot please?” Kris asked me. “Search him as well.” 

“Who all needs to be arrested? Just Lot?” I asked. 

“Yes,” Kris said. 

“Lot and Downy,” Stormy added. 

“I’ll consider myself deputized then. Downy?” I looked over at the doorway. 

“There is a warrant for her, but don’t worry about that for now. Just get four-eyes over there,” Steve said. 

I walked over at Lot and said, “Hey there... Good to see you. One of you wouldn’t have a set of cuffs I could borrow?” I asked, looking around. 

“But Trin, go easy when you arrest Downy she shot Lot for us.” Stormy laughed. 

“Give her your cuffs Steve,” Kris said. 

I blinked at Stormy’s comment and looked around, “Excuse me?!” 

“Here Miss Trin I got some,” Downy tapped on the window and dangled some handcuffs. 

Steve tossed me his cuffs. “Make sure they draw blood,” he told me and I smiled, catching them. 

“Search him too, Trin,” Kris told me. “Take his guns and such.” 

I walked over to Lot and took his hands, cuffing him behind his back. “Yes Kris, have done this before,” I said to Kris. 

Lot resisted a little and said, “Miss Trin, if I take my hand off of this wound, I will bleed like a stuck pig. So unless you wanna bandage this first, I ain’t taken my hand off the wound.” 

I put on some gloves and started to search Lot up and down, looking for anything that could be used as a weapon or lockpick, including his guns, knives, etcetera. I glared at him as he spoke and then looked over to Kris and Steve. “He hasn’t even been treated yet?” 

“I will be back,” Jy said and headed out of the clinic as Steve laughed. 

“None of us has been treated Trin,” Stormy told me and I sighed. 

“Then I’m not going to arrest him yet. He needs to be treated first,” I announced. 

“Cuff him to the bed then,” Steve told me and I nodded, taking one of Lot’s hands as I cuffed it to the bed. 

“Maddog ya got some strange tastes,” Downy said from the window where she tapped in. 

“How so, D?” Steve asked her. 

Lot fell face first on the floor as I unbalanced him and I blinked, seeing I’d taken his free hand and not the other one. “Dang it, Lot,” I said and tried to lift him up on the bed again, but I wasn’t strong enough. “Dennis, you still out there?” I called out of the clinic, having heard him talking to Downy outside. 

“Yes?” Dennis peeked his head through the window as Lot muttered a few swear words and slowly stood, holding his wound. 

“Need your help here lifting Lot back onto the bed and cuffing him to it!” I shouted out to him as I tried to steady Lot as he stood. Lot shook his head and climbed on the bed again. “Keep that hand on your wound, Lot, and lay back please,” I told him. 

“Look’s like it was already taken care of!” Dennis called back into the clinic. 

All of a sudden, Downy shouted, “HOLY COW MISS TRIN COME QUICK ONE OF YER KIDS IS IN TROUBLE!!!” 

I felt better now that Lot was laying down and ignored Downy, knowing she was full of crap, as I cuffed Lot to the bed. “Never mind Dennis, I got it,” I said to the man outside. I took out my ink and a piece of paper and said, “While we’re at it, Lot…” I started to put ink on his finger, hoping to be able to get his fingerprint on a piece of paper. Lot, however, smeared blood and ink all over the paper, making it impossible for me to get a print. 

“If he bleeds out dose that mean we got a murder on our hands?” Steve asked. 

I put the equipment away and took Lot’s gun, knowing at least I could get the bullet casings from it, and put them in a bag for my files. 

“Lady yer gonna git yerself into some big ol’ trouble there,” Downy threatened me. “Big trouble.”

“Okay, who’s dead? Speak up,” Jimmi Rubble said as he walked into the clinic. 

“Me!” Lot exclaimed. 

I then took out my coal dust and put it on the gun, lifting prints from the gun, and put the prints in my bag. I looked over at Downy then and said, “I’m already in big trouble. Downy. I don’t need to hear it from you. I’m doing my damn job.” 

“The dead don’t speak.” Dennis chuckled. 

“Honey, this one is alive. Treat him last,” Jimmi told Starling as she washed her hands. 

“If you say so,” Downy stared at me, staring unblinkingly. 

“Right, who’s first?” Starling asked. 

“Looks like this one is the bloodiest,” Jimmi said and about Steve and asked, “Who wants tea? Anyone?” 

“No goin’ to sleep there, pal,” Downy shook Lot’s arm. 

I recognized the Navy Colt then as Jimmi and Starling started to work on healing the injured. I realized that Lot’s gun didn’t have any shells but was a black powder pistol that used lead balls and paper wadding. 

Since I was done with Lot, I walked over to Steve and asked, “Steve? You alright?” 

“Yeah, I had worse, Trin,” he told me. 

“Want to tell me what happened, Steve?” 

“Well we was trying to arrest Lot and Downy, Kris and me. Then boom, Lot shot me.” 

I handed Steve Lot’s gun and said, “Here you go. That’s all I found on him.” 

“Well, I saw Downy go through Kris’ pockets… Hell, I didn’t see what she took from him, but I bet it’s something she can use. Hell Trin, mind arresting her?” 

I heard jiggling behind me and saw Downy looking all innocent outside. I looked back at Steve and said, “I can’t do this by myself, Steve.” 

Suddenly, as soon as he was healed, Lot ran out of the clinic. I wondered how on earth Lot had managed to escape and blinked. “How the…” I ran out after him, drawing my gun, since I was still deputized. Steve came out and drew his gun and I looked around, trying to find which way he went. I slowed down as Steve and I went towards the bridge to Goldfield and I pointed, seeing Lot run off. 

“Now what? Guess we go after Downy?” 

“Where she go?” 

“Bet she’s still in the clinic.” 

We walked back to the clinic and looked around for Downy, but she wasn’t there. I walked back outside and asked Steve if he’d found her. Paisley asked who we were looking for and Steve said that Downy was long gone. I kicked the post in frustration and Steve promised he would get her. 

“Alright let me get this straight, Steve. You, Kris and Stormy went after Downy and Lot for a warrant on them. Lot shot you.” 

“Yes ma’am,” Steven agreed with my review so far. 

“Downy stole something from Kris. Seeing as Lot escaped my handcuffs I’m guessing it was his key. Who shot Stormy and Lot then?” 

“Yes ma’am, I saw her search him by the bank as I limped after them. I didn’t see, ma’am. No clue who shot anyone but me.” 

“Stormy, who shot you?” I asked as I walked inside the clinic. 

“Downy,” Stormy said and I nodded. 

“Who shot Lot?” I asked. 

“Detective, that man was wounded too,” Jimmi said and pointed to Dennis who was heading out of the clinic. 

“Dennis was?” 

“Yes him,” Jimmi said and I sighed. 

“Downy and one of the deputies,” Stormy told me. 

“This is a mess, Jimmy. Downy shot Lot?? By accident?” I blinked. 

“It will be ok when the sheets are changed and the floor is mopped,” Jimmi said, thinking I meant that the clinic was a mess. 

“Dennis! Don’t go too far!” I called out to Dennis. I looked back at the others and asked, “So who shot Kris?” 

“I do believe Lot and Downy,” Stormy said. 

“Probably himself,” Jimmi muttered. 

“They both did?” I clarified. 

“I think so,” Stormy said. “It happened so fast, I couldn’t keep up.” 

“Thank you. You did well, Sheriff. Get well.” I went over to Jimmi and Starling and said, “Jimmi, Starling, thank you for being here.” 

“Pleasure,” Jimmi said with a nod. 

“Alright I think I got the facts, Steve,” I looked over to him. “You guys get to do the paperwork but this is what happened. After Lot shot you down.. Downy searched Kris and stole something from him but no one knows what. In the gunfight, Downy accidentally shot Lot and also shot Stormy. Both Lot and Downy were involved in shooting down Kris. Then when he was cuffed to the clinic, Downy was standing near him and suddenly Lot stood and ran out of the clinic. It stands to reason that Downy stole Kris’ key for the handcuffs. Sound about right to you?” 

“Yes ma’am.” 

“Now I have to figure out why Dennis got hurt.” 

“Have fun with that paperwork. This is why I’m a Pinkerton,” I said and winked at him. 

“You sure are smart,” Steven said with a smile. 

“Gonna go find Dennis before he goes too far,” I said and headed out of the clinic. 

Walking down the street, I found Dennis sitting in his spot in front of Kate’s. “Good, you’re still here. Feeling okay?” 

“A scratch...No more.” Dennis shrugged and took some more sips of whiskey from his flask. 

“How’d you get hurt?” I asked curiously, taking my gloves off and putting them in my pocket. I took out my own flask and started to drink whiskey to calm down. All the information being thrown at me at once was starting to overwhelm me. 

“Well, I didn’t feel like helping a marshal that was openly making fun of me with an outlaw that threatened me just a few days ago… So, I went to take shelter from the bullets in the undertaker’s building… next thing I know, a stray bullet hits me in the arm…” 

“I don’t blame you. Now you see why I’m still a Pinkerton and not a deputy.” I nodded to him. 

“The deputy ain’t no issue… It’s that Marshal, Kris I believe… That I have an issue with.” 

I sighed and nodded in agreement. “Guess he lost his cuffs too cause Lot escaped somehow. Well I’m going to head out and get some air. Need to write this stuff up. See you soon, Dennis.” 

I walked towards the office and saw a white horse in the distance. I walked over and grinned, seeing my man on the horse. “Now see... this is an image I could get used to.” 

“Well good afternoon perty lady… have you seen my sweetheart anywhere?” Thomas smiled big. 

“Now all you need is some shining armour and you’ll be all set.” I winked and pet the horse. 

Thomas chuckled and leaned down, kissing my lips softly. “How are you dear? You are looking as pretty as the morning sun today.” 

“I’m uh... well... it’s been a stressful day already.” 

“Uh oh. Whats been going on around here? Anything I need to know about?” 

I sighed and nodded, still petting the horse. Bree came over and greeted us with a ‘Happy New Year’ and headed on her way. Looking over at Thomas I said, “Alright so... what just happened… Lot shot down Steven Itano when Steve, Kris and Stormy tried to arrest him and Downy for a warrant. Downy searched Kris and stole something from him but no one knows what. In the gunfight, Downy accidentally shot Lot and also shot Stormy. Both Lot and Downy were involved in shooting down Kris. Then when he was cuffed to the clinic, Downy was standing near him and suddenly Lot stood and ran out of the clinic. It stands to reason that Downy stole Kris’ key for the handcuffs. Meanwhile, in the clinic, Downy threatened me while I worked on getting fingerprints from Lot’s gun. And I told her I’ve already got enough trouble, I don’t need more of it from her and she left me alone. I need to sit somewhere and do paperwork for this... Can we... sit somewhere dear? Preferably with alcohol involved?” 

“Sure dear. Why don’t we go into the Oriental and have a drink and relax.” 

“That sounds perfect.  So have you named this girl yet?” I asked, petting the horse again. 

“Hmmm, I think I will name her Cupcake…” Thomas smiled. 

“Come on honey, let’s go get that drink.” I smiled and led the way to the Oriental where we sat down at a table. I leaned forward and rubbed the temples of my head with my fingers as Thomas ordered us some whiskey. 

“Sounds like a crazy morning love. What a way to start out the new year huh?” 

I nodded and leaned my head on the table. “Is it bedtime yet?” I asked. “I think we had too much whiskey last night.” 

“You think? My head was still spinning this morning when Jimmy came up and shook me awake. He wanted me to take him our hunting with his bb gun. He is getting really good with it. We did shoot any animals, but he shot at a couple of bullfrogs in a pond.” 

I chuckled and reached across to hold his hand. “I’m glad he’s getting better at aiming that thing. And thank you for ridding the world of two more bullfrogs.” 

Thomas chuckled too and held my hand as he sipped his whiskey. “He wanted to bring them home and see if you would make frog legs out of them for new years dinner, but I told him we better leave them to the wild. He has a weird appetite sometimes.” 

“Good luck with that. I would just throw them back outside.” I sipped my whiskey and sighed, interlacing my fingers with his. “The kids seemed to have fun at the dance last night. Natalie’s working on her article for the paper this weekend about it.” 

Thomas kissed my hand and smiled, looking into my eyes. “Yeah, Jimmy was reading a book of some kind when I left the house. Natalie was writing away at their desk. When she gets writing, she is almost oblivious to the world. I walked up to kiss her cheek and she like to have jumped clear out of the desk.” 

I smiled, thinking of that image. “She’s a lot like me. You know how I get when I start writing or reading. It would take gunshots to distract me,” I said, lifting his hand and kissing his fingers. “I’m so glad you’re here, darling.” 

“Me too sweetheart. At least we are safe, and no bullet holes in us for the new years.” He knocked on the table to be safe. “I hope this new year will be a lot better than last. Though it will be hard to top, since I met you and got a family last year.” 

I grinned and leaned over to kiss him. “You’re right, though I almost got a bullet in me today but Lot ran off too far. Oh well, he’s Steve’s problem now. Though I’m pretty sure Downy has it out for me.” 

“Well I guess I will have to keep an eye on Downy. I don’t know him very well. As for Lot, well he is always in trouble, and will eventually get caught by somebody. All I care about is you being safe my love.” 

“Downy… her… She’s got it out for me, I’m sure of it.” 

“Hmmm...well I guess I don’t know her very well then…” Thomas chuckled. “Always new people arriving in Tombstone. It’s hard to keep up sometimes.” 

“Ironic thing is that back when I was in Georgetown, her husband was my first boss as a Pinkerton.” I muttered something and emptied my glass. 

“Want another one dear or want to join me in a rootbeer?” Thomas asked, pulling out a piece of paper. “Hmm… I don’t have Downy down for any warrants or bounties. But given time, I am sure she will be wanted for something.” 

“That’s weird because Steve claimed that they were trying to take her down for a warrant today.” 

“Hmmm...weird..well she may be in that mess of warrants that come out the other day...I lost track of who is wanted and who isn’t. I just try to keep my head down unless I see something going down then I step in. I am tired of getting shot full of holes and nothing getting done about it.” 

“I know, dear.” I nodded and stood, helping him stand up. “I should head to the office and put this evidence and paperwork in order.” 

He stood and kissed me deeply as he pulled me close. “Of course dear. smiles, I love you very much.” I hugged him, not letting go as the headache pounded and I exhaled, feeling tiredness wash over me as I clung to him. “You ok sweetheart? Are you sure you don’t need to go home and get a nap dear?” 

I exhaled and nodded to him against his chest. “Nap… might be good…” I said, half asleep already as he led me back towards the house. 

*** 

Bisbee. 

This evening I wandered into the house and sighed. I was tired of doing other people’s jobs and it just confirmed more and more why I was just a Pinkerton and not a deputy. I noticed the plate and cups on the table and shook my head, wondering how long the dishes had been there, and took them to the kitchen. I washed the dishes in the sink and put them away in the cupboard, hearing Shira bound downstairs to greet me. I leaned down to pet the dog and said, “Hey there, girl. How are you still awake?” 

I heard voices upstairs and wondered why the whole house was still awake. I blew out the candles and checked to make sure the door was locked. As I walked upstairs, I heard Thomas giving Natalie a bedtime story and chuckled as I realized he was telling her about his first business venture. 

“Did it work?” Natalie was asking. 

“Did it work? It worked to confuse the heck out of people and made me laugh at him!” I grinned and leaned down to kiss Thomas on the forehead. 

“I don’t know munchkin, Miss Pet never bought anymore. Though I quit selling it soon after I moved to Tombstone. Your ma helped me to decide not to sell it anymore,” Thomas told her and then looked over at me. “Hi dear!” 

Natalie giggled and looked over at me. “Hi Ma! Pa’s tellin’ me bout how ya met! How’d you get him to stop sellin’ that stuff?” 

I chuckled, leaning against the wall, feeling exhausted. “Well, I convinced him to stop lyin’ to people and make an honest man out of himself. Told him he could do more and help people. So he became a deputy. Course that’s after he thought ’bout bein’ a lawyer first…” I winked at Thomas. 

Thomas kissed me and hugged me tight, pulling me down onto the bed with him. “Yeah love, tell our daughter about it.” 

Natalie giggled and asked, “You were gonna be a lawyer pa?” 

I looked over to where Jimmy was fast asleep on the bed near us and I wondered how he was sleeping through the talking. 

“Well yeah, I guess. Then I realized we needed lawmen who could be trusted more tan we needed lawyers,” Thomas said.  

“Mmhmm we sure did. And you’re pa’s the best one there is,” I said proudly. “Now why are you two still awake and why were there dishes left out in the living room?” I looked between them. 

Natalie slipped under the covers, as if she was hiding. “Shira did it..” 

“Ummm, I fed these two rugrats cookies and milk to get them to go to bed. Natalie wouldn’t stop begging, then she tag teamed me with Shira,” Thomas told me .

“They gave you the double-puppy-dog-eye trick huh? Very clever kiddo.” I grinned. 

“Yes they did...but Natalie deserved it… she stayed with Mr. Mack while I went to get paid at the jail with Lot and Shaun out in front of Kate’s Saloon.” 

“Even though Millard shouted that Jeff was dead!!!” Natalie started to sit up straighter, looking between us. “Who’d kill Jeffrey??” 

“I don’t think anyone killed Jeffery sweetie. Probably Millard just being Millard,” Thomas told her. 

“I gonna throw a rock near him next time I see him,” Nat muttered. 

“Now hon, your father’s right. Mill was probably just teasin’ with ya,” I told her. 

“Now now… don’t be throwing rocks at people Natalie,” Thomas scolded.

“But ma... Mr Lot and some bad guy was out there and they was talkin about Jeff and yellin’ at him and…” Nat started. 

“Jeffrey does little jobs for Mr Lot with the courthouse. I’m sure that’s all it was sweetie,” I told her. 

Nat sighed and crawled under her covers. “Well make sure he’s okay tomorrow. I guess I sleep now. Thanks for tellin’ me that story pa.” 

I went over and kissed Nat on the forehead and tucked her in. “Goodnight sweetheart. Sleep well.” I went over to kiss Jimmy on the forehead and stepped back. “I love you both very much.” 

“You’re welcome munchkin. I will I promise. You sleep tight and don’t let the bedbugs bite,” Thomas said as he pet Shira and kissed Nat goodnight. 

I headed to the bedroom and lay down in bed with the safety and security of my man’s arms around me after a long day. 

December 30, 1900

Tombstone. 

I walked into Tombstone this morning and waved to Joe who was in his usual spot. “Everyone at Annie’s again today?” I asked him. 

“I guess so. Difficult to get business then.” 

“No kidding. Guess I have to go where the people are though.” 

“Aye, well not stepped a foot in there for maybe three years… So good luck with that.” Joe smirked. 

“Thanks, Joe. I don’t like goin’ there either... but… I won’t even let my kid be taught by them. Just seems wrong.” 

“The doves are teachers?” Joe snorted. 

“Paisley was teachin’ on Saturday.” 

“Well lucky somebody is teaching them.” 

“I guess…” 

“Well, some might say enterprising of them.” 

“Don’t mean we gotta support it.” I shrugged. 

“Each to their own, Trin. Ya should be relaxed like me.” Joe grinned. “I get relaxed everyday.” 

“Relaxed... I just want work to do.” I sighed. 

“Well we all want that… Just most folks seem to be a sleeping at moment.” 

“Gonna ride around. I’ll see you later, Joe.” 

“See ya Trin, and good luck with the work,” he said as I called for Phoenix and hopped on my horse, riding away. 

*** 

Tonight I talked with a group of people by Kate’s and greeted Chris, Deborah, and Dennis. We had some whiskey and then I heard Lot coming up towards me. “Lot, good… I need to talk to you.” 

“No ya don’t,” Lot shook his head. 

“Yeah, I do. Are you missing a top hat?” 

“Are you missing a brain?” 

“Hi Mr Chris!” Nat came over and waved. 

“This was left on my kitchen table. Is it yours?” I showed him a picture of the top hat. 

Lot didn’t even look at the picture and said, “Get lost you two bit wanna be.” 

“So you ain’t missing a hat then?” 

“Again I ask, are you missing a brain?” 

“This top hat was left on my kitchen table. WB was traced in blood under a death threat to me.” I looked at him. “Do you know anything about that?” 

“And just what is WB?” Lot spit on the dirt at my feet and then looked at me. 

“I don’t know exactly. I just want to know if you know anything about this.” I looked at him. “Lot, these people were in MY house. Where MY kids live. I take that very seriously.” 

“Miss Trin, you would be lucky if i ever gave you the time of day, let alone anything else. so piss off.” 

“Well alright then, I’m glad you weren’t involved,” I said and slowly turned, seeing my daughter. “Hey there kiddo.” 

“Any luck, Trin?” Chris asked. 

“He says he would barely give me the time of day. Pretty sure he doesn’t care enough about me to threaten me.” 

“Good ol Lot. You count on not counting on him.” Chris chuckled. 

“So polite.” Dennis chuckled. “So who’s next? Any clues?” 

“Kiddo, what you been up to?” I asked, going quiet about the case in front of my daughter. When it looked like she was lost in thought, I went in for a drink. After a while I could hear them talking outside, but I was too frustrated and just stayed in the saloon. 

After a while I walked back out and Nat said, “Hi ma! Get yer drink?”

“All them folks running back ’n forth...Busy day?” Dennis asked. 

“Sure did. And yeah, Dennis you could say that.” I smiled and tipped my flask to my daughter. 

“Excuse me Kris, I am wondering if I can shoot you,” Lot said loudly then. 

I blinked at that and looked over at Dennis, then at Natalie. “Kiddo, maybe you should head inside..” 

“But maaaa….” Natalie frowned and looked up at me.

“Lot’s busy again…” Dennis chuckled and pushed himself to his feet. 

As Lot wandered off, muttering, I looked back over at Natalie and said, “Never mind.” 

Dennis walked over to Kris then and yelled, “Bit rude not to speak you know.” 

I couldn’t help but laugh at Dennis and looked back over at Natalie as she said, “Hey Ma did I tell you Mr Kris got me a doll for Christmas?” 

“He did huh? What’s that, kiddo?” 

“It’s a reindeer moosey thingy! Not sure what to name it.”

“Alright kiddo, I’m gonna keep looking around. See you at home, sweetie,” I said as I leaned down to hug her, and then went to do the rounds before bed. 

December 29, 1900

Tombstone. 

I walked towards the courthouse and found the mayor upstairs in his office, reading something. He was too busy to talk so I headed out and went to Annie’s to see who was there. Reb was dancing on stage so I waved to her and said, “Hey Reb, how are you?” 

“Hi Trin I’m good, how are you?” 

“I’m alright. Been hoping to connect with the mayor but he seems often busy.” 

“Oh okay. I can imagine.” 

“Yeah... I just really need to talk with him. Reb, have you seen a woman by the name of Sushi around these parts?” 

“Well hopefully you can catch him now.” 

“The implications of things I’ve discovered do not look well for him. I want to clear some things up.” 

“Oh?” 

“Is there an event here soon or something?” 

“Later tonight is bowling.” 

“Oh right. I’ll be singing over in Bisbee in three hours or so. More like two hours now I suppose.” 

“Oh great! Will see if I can come over. If there aren’t any clients.” 

“Will be nice to sing normal songs again. No more Frosty and Rudolph.” 

“Yes it can get a bit stale.” 

“Think I’m going to wander around. See you in a while, Reb.” I smiled and waved as I headed out. Seeing Joe in front of the courthouse sign, I chuckled and asked, “Comfy?” 

“Yup, good for my back.” Joe lifted his head and grunted. 

“Whatever works for you.” I chuckled. 

“As little work as possible works for me.” 

“I’m the opposite... I need to be doing... something. I figured out who may own that top hat at my house and I’m not happy about either option.” 

“Aye, well I have stocked the still, but nobody is bleeding… So resting. Ya figured who then?” 

“I have a couple of ideas... People have seen two men wearing top hats like that one in town. Two of the worst possible options it could be.” 

“Thought only the mayor wore a top hat.” Joe chuckled. 

“Yeah that’s one.. Though why the mayor’s hat would be in my kitchen is still the mystery.” 

“Well that different, and the other one.” Joe scratched his head. 

“The other option makes a bit more sense... but I don’t like it either.  Apparently Lot has worn a hat similar to that one. And with ‘WB’ being sketched on the cabinet in blood, I can see him leaving it as a signature.” 

“Aye maybe Lot, but hell I see nothing and remember even less. WB could be welcome back.” He joked. 

“Just don’t like the idea of either of them being in my house for no reason. Welcome back huh…? I was gone from Bisbee a long time… Then moved back to it….” 

“Well who knows with those two, and you guess can see why ya would be uncomfortable.” Joe nodded. 

“We finally had to tell Natalie that sometimes there were people who didn’t like her ma’s work. She knew something was wrong and could sense we were worried about things.” 

“Well maybe she won’t be so inquisitive now then. Girl is gonna get in trouble some day. I mean she used to follow the payroll, when though it’s always gets attacked.” 

“I know... She stopped doin’ that though thank goodness. She’s got enough material to work with for the paper that she doesn’t need to put herself in harm’s way.” 

“So have I,” Joe muttered. “Folks don’t tend to want my services there and call other docs in, so leaving it to them.” 

“Well enough outlaws get shot up that they need a doc too. You’ll be plenty busy.” 

“Ya would think so wouldn’t ya?” He rubbed his chin. “Don’t think I have treated anybody for maybe three weeks now.” 

“Gee…” I shook my head. 

“Yep, had a chance but they telegraphed for other docs so I walked out.” He chuckled. “Folks maybe don’t appreciate a sawbones.” 

“If it makes you feel any better, not many appreciate a Pinkerton either.” 

“True, and I can understand why.” He chuckled again. 

“Thanks,” I said and rolled my eyes. 

“Well folks don’t like other folks prying into their business, now do they?” 

“I don’t pry into others’ business unless they ask me to help them solve something.” 

“True, but depends who is asking, I guess.” 

“If they ask, they want me to pry. If not.. I stay out of it.” 

“Aye well I stay out of most things, just do my research and get by.” 

I watched as Amara was giving a tour to someone and Joe grinned as he looked over. “Ah, fresh pickings.” 

We welcomed the woman to Tombstone and found out her name was Trisha. Angel came over and greeted us as well as Amara introduced us to the new woman. We talked about how she was staying at the hotel and I told her that Joe was the local town colour. I asked Angel about the store and she said it was very busy over the holidays. I headed back to the sheriff’s office and leaned back against the post, too restless to sit. 

*** 

Bisbee. 

This afternoon I did my gig at the Stock Exchange and then I asked Jimmy if we should head home. He said he wanted to talk to me about something so we headed home and sat down in the living room. 

“So what’s up buddy?” I asked when we were comfortable. 

“Ma, is everything ok?” 

I looked at him, thinking this was like de ja vu from the night before, and leaned forward. “You been talking to your sister?” 

“No, but I overheard you and pa talking to her last night. Also, I found pieces of that stuff torn up that must have been under our tree.” 

I narrowed my eyebrows and looked at him, thinking he meant something outside, but then realized he meant the Christmas tree. “Jimmy, I’m gonna tell you what I told Natalie last night.. You know how your ma is a detective, right?” 

“Uh huh.” 

“And you know how your ma is sometimes a lawyer too…?” I asked and he nodded. “And your pa is a deputy… Well Jimmy... these are very important jobs… But sometimes... we have to do stuff that other people don’t like. Bad people don’t always like that we make them get arrested... or they don’t like when their friends get…” I tried to figure out how to put it delicately. “Tied to a pole. You know what I mean?” 

“Is that why there was a note stuck to our icebox?” 

“You saw that, huh?” 

“Well, I saw the knife, but I heard you and pa talking about the note. I stayed away from it, and didn’t say anything to Nat.” 

“Yes kiddo, that’s why there was a note there with a knife. I made some people mad at that last trial I won... But listen.. Even when bad people try to scare us... do you know what we gotta do?” 

“Run and hide?” He shook his head. 

“What we do first is tell your pa. Cause he has the power to arrest that bad guy if we can prove it’s them. And I help him with that provin’. Then… We don’t run and hide. We just live our lives normally. Like nothin’ happened. You know why?” 

“So the bad guys don’t win?” 

“You’re right.” I nodded proudly. “When they thing they’re in charge of stuff,, when they think they made us scared so we run and hide, then they win. So if we tell your pa and then your pa and I work together to prove it was them and arrest them... Who wins?” 

“Well you know ma, now I gots my bb gun...if anybody bother me and Natalie, I could shoot ’em. I don’t know ifn it do good, but maybe scare ’em off.”

“Kiddo... promise me something? If you use that gun..” 

“Sure ma.” 

“Don’t shot at the person themselves. Shoot around the area where they are, to scare em off, but don’t shoot them. Got it? Even if you shoot a building next to where they are.. they’re gonna hear that bullet and run.” 

“Ok ma… I promise.” Jimmy nodded, but he had a confused look on his face. 

“Does that make any sense buddy? Don’t shoot them. Just shoot near them or in the sky or somethin’. Cause you know why?” 

“Cause it make ’em mad to shoot ’em?” 

“Well there is that, yes... Then they fight back more... but there’s another reason. Wanna take another guess?” 

“What’s that ma? Cause kids ain’t s’posed to shoot adults?” 

“If you shoot someone... without the badge that pa has... Whether a kid or a big person like me… That’s a crime, kiddo. And people go to jail for it. And if a kid gets caught doin’ it... they get punished. Just like any adult would.” 

“But how if the person is a bad person trying to hurt someone else?” 

“Well kiddo if that person draws their gun first and goes to shoot you or me or someone who doesn’t have pa’s badge... then it’s called self defence and it’s okay.” 

“But… I promise you, buddy… No one would draw their gun at a kid in this town.” 

“You don’t think so?” 

“I know so, buddy. I’ve lived here almost three years and I’ve not seen that happen once. Or even hear about it. It just doesn’t happen.” 

“What do I do if me and Nat are home, and someone were to break in or try to hurt the house?” 

“Then you get Shira to attack them till they go away. You call for help. Once they know there’s kids in the house, they’ll go away.” 

“Ok ma. I just worried cause I know you an pa work so hard, and do so much for me and Natalie, that we gotta do our part too..I just not wanna lose my family now I got one.” 

“Don’t worry kiddo... we love you both so much and are proud of you both. You look out for your big sister and are gonna make a good deputy someday or whatever else you wanna be.” I smiled to him. “I know it’s scary sometimes but... just remember that there are people like your pa that you can go to.. that have badges like he does… You can go to them whenever you don’t feel safe, okay?” 

“Oh no, I not gonna be a deputy..I not wanna get shot...I be a vetnarian like Mr. Cole. Then I help heal horses.” Jimmy chuckled. 

“We should go see your uncle Cole sometime soon. I miss that guy... and cousin Irish... and Irish’s new lady Enola.” 

“Ok ma. Do I have to go to Mr. Ansar? I don’t like him too much… he try selling me a free donut at the bank once.” 

“You don’t have to but you can. Angel’s another good option.” I chuckled. 

“I like Miss Angel… she got a funny voice… sometimes hard to understand her.” 

“She’s from Germany.” I smiled. 

“Oh wow, really? Thats like on the other side of the world ain’t it?” 

“Well kiddo I’m gonna go have a nap. Maybe that’ll help your ma’s cold. Mmhmm, it’s across a lake and everything.” 

“Oh gosh...she a long way from home then huh? Ok ma, you want me make you some tea for when you wake up?” 

“That sounds perfect, buddy,” I said and went over to hug him tightly. “I love you, Jimmy.” 

“I love you too momma. Have a good nap.” 

I smiled and headed upstairs to lay down for a while. 

*** 

Tombstone. 

A couple of hours later I walked into Tombstone and greeted Zan and Bree in front of the bank. We talked about how I needed to get in touch with the mayor and I filled Zan in on what had been going on at the house. I told them about our suspicions of Adrian and Lot being involved and Zan wondering if someone was trying to set it up to look like one of the Wild Bunch. I told them how hard it had been with the kids asking about what was going on and we talked about the trial and how it felt like the outlaws were taunting me, giving me nothing to work on. Bree suggested to let it drop and not think about it all, but I just felt myself going crazy over it. I told them it was different when it was my family they were involving, and I was glad that both Bree and Zan understood my frustration. I told them I didn’t want to move and uproot them again, but Zan said that she and Chris would keep an eye out on them while we’re working, to keep them safe. 

“You are both wonderful... I will tell them both to come visit you ladies. It will be good distraction for them.” I looked between them and smiled. “I don’t know what I would do without friends like you two.” 

“I know you would do the same.. if it were reversed,” Zan said. 

“Of course we would. I did save your life once,” I said with a wink. 

“You most certainly did at that.” 

“And I’d do it again... Though perhaps with not as much paperwork.” I grinned. 

“I just hope we can help in some way..” 

“I hope so too... I just want answers. But for now... I think I’m going to head home and check on the kids.” 

“Yes,” Bree said. 

“Alright.. it was great seeing you.. Let me know if there is anything else I can do,” Zan said. 

“Will do. See you ladies!” I waved to Chris as he came over and to the ladies before heading home. 

December 28, 1900

Tombstone. 

I walked into town this morning and saw a woman I didn’t recognize. She introduced herself as Cathy Willis and said that she lived in Bisbee. We talked about our families and our jobs. She told me that her partner at the ranch was missing. 

“I’m guessing she just got lazy and decided to travel…” 

“How long has she been missing?” 

“Just a couple of weeks.” 

“She still should have left word with you or something…” 

“I was missing for maybe two months. So… it happens.” 

“If you’re concerned about it… I can help..” 

“That’s wonderful. I will let you know.” 

“What is her name?” 

“Sushi.” 

“Interesting name.” 

“Yes. She’s from Japan.” 

“She have a last name?” 

“Sushirocks.” 

I asked for a description and she gave me a picture and then Cathy headed home. I went to the sheriff’s office to write up the case report and then Little Dove and Angel were talking outside so I went to join them. 

“Angel, how long have you been standing there?” 

“Longer than you realize?” Angel chuckled. 

“Lost in my notes I guess. Just picked up a new case.” 

“Oh? “ 

“Missing person’s case. Haven’t had one of these in a while.” 

“Oh my.” 

“Woman by the name of Sushi is missing.” 

“Never heard of her.” 

“Apparently they run a ranch together over in Coronado, her and this Cathy person who told me about it.” 

I asked Angel when Pet’s wedding would be and we talked about the winter weather and Christmas. We talked about the Bee and Little Dove said she hadn’t seen Natalie in a while. I read the Bee and smiled at the interview Natalie had done with Thomas. When it came time, I went over with them to Pet and Bass’ wedding.

***

I walked into town tonight and Bree asked me to come over to where they were in front of the bank. “Everything alright, Bree?” 

“Hey Trin, I know who that hat belongs to,” Rikki told me. 

“Do you, Rikki?” I looked at her. 

“Yep, I do.” 

“Trin, Dennis here found some bullet casings in the street tonight,” Bree said. 

“A bullet casing, eh?” I looked between them. “Who does the hat belong to, Rikki?” 

“If ya wanna know, it is going to cost you.” Rikki smiled. 

“Eh, They’re mine now ye know.” A man folded his arms and shook his head. 

“Of course it is. How much, Rikki?” I asked. 

“How much ya got?” 

“Depends how much you’re going to tell me the truth, now don’t it?” 

“Up to you. I know who it belongs to and you don’t. Have a good evening.” 

I reached in my bag and pulled out one hundred dollar coins. “Is this enough?” 

Rikki looked at the coins and reached for them, but then pulled her hand back. “Nope, not enough.” 

“Are casing got special mark Dennis?” Bree asked him. 

“He is one of my clients.” Rikki giggled. 

“That’s one hundred dollars, Rikki. Pretty big lump of sum if you ask me. What do you want, two hundred?” 

“Not big enough to turn him in.” 

“Hey Trin, I have a casing I’ll sell ya for half price.” Chris chuckled. 

“Turn him in? The man who owns the hat?” 

“Didn't know that,” the man Bree had called Dennis replied. “And I haven’t looked. ALl I did was play a catching game with myself.” He laughed. 

“Or the man that stole the hat?” I asked. 

“Yep, ain’t gonna tell ya who it is cause I don’t want to lose him as my business partner,” Rikki said. 

“So then why on earth did you offer to tell me?” I asked, putting my money away. 

“I keep one of the ones Zan shot me with for a souvenir,” Chris said. 

“To see what you would do.” Rikki grinned. 

“And since I offer to give you money you’re not gonna tell anything?” I looked at her. “This person broke into my house, Rikki. Threatened my life. Stole my kid’s presents. And left that damned hat on my kitchen table. I want to know who did it.” 

“Maybe I’ll just take that money from you later.” Rikki sneered.

“Oh Trin, I am sorry to hear this,” Bree said. “Poor kids.” 

“I’ve lived in this town for almost three years, Rikki. You know how much Pinkertons make, it ain’t no secret.” 

“Have a good evening. Bah… kids,” Rikki said.

“You’ve not bothered to touch me once. I’m not worried about you doing it now,” I told her and she walked away. 

“How did...Bullet casings...Go to…This…?” Dennis blinked and then went towards the saloon. 

“Bloody moron, she is,” I muttered, turning back to the group. “Now, someone said something about a bullet casing? What’s so interesting ’bout this bullet casing?” 

“She is a real critter I declare,” Bree agreed and then said she had to go home because it was almost Tarra’s bedtime. 

“Was it near someone who got shot?” I asked. Chris and Bree talked about something else as she headed home. “How hard is it to get information around here?” 

I walked down the street and found Dennis drinking at the bar. “Hey there, sorry, I got distracted.” 

“Sorry to hear bout the robbery.” He nodded. 

“Not the best time of year for it to happen, that’s for sure.” I sighed, and then tried to change the subject. “Where’d you find the bullet casing?” 

“Nothing’s ever easy.” Dennis chuckled and then lifted a brow. “A trail from the doctor’s office, general store and the outhouse… So unless someone tells me someone went to take a crap, gone shopping and visited the doctor… while shootin’ i think it’s all but weird.” 

“That does seem odd. A trail of bullet casings? Can I see one?” I asked, putting on my gloves. 

Dennis reached into his pocket and pulled out an old badge and three fresh bullet casings. He took one of the bullet casings and nodded, holding one out to me. “Colt Peacemaker, Older gun...Seems like it hasn’t been cleaned for a while either.”

I took the casing with my gloved hand and studied the bullet, noticing the old badge he’d taken out as well. “You were a lawman?” 

“Pinkerton, after that however i became a law man, Sarrah has trained me.” He smiled. 

“Well it’s good to meet another one. I’ve been the only one around these parts for a few years now. Had a couple partners but they couldn’t stand the paperwork.” I smiled and gave him a wink. 

“The paperwork is the easy part...Solving crimes is the hard part.” Dennis shrugged and turned his head towards the sheriff’s office. “I miss Sarrah to tell you the truth… Same goes for Seth.” 

“I agree with you... Paperwork’s easy for me too.” I nodded to him and studied the bullet more. “Well I’ll tell ya... this bullet could be from any gun around here. You know outlaws in this town... they get healed then boom, they’re out the door shooting again.” 

“Colt Peacemaker seems to be the towns favourite,” Dennis said with a nod, patting his guns. “Same counts for me however.’” 

A man walked into the salon then and smiled as he sat at the end of the bar. I nodded to him and he grabbed the bottle of whiskey, pouring himself a glass quietly. 

“Evening, Sir. Don’t think we’ve met,” I greeted him. 

“Just riding back into town. Been a long while…” The man chuckled. “The old days. I’m Andrew.” 

“Howdy.” Dennis lit a cigarette and said, “The name is Dennis. And whoever these cases are from… IS most likely long gone.”

“Consider it a souvenir I guess.” 

“Good to meet ya’ll,” Andrew said. 

“See I never understood gathering bullet casings... There are several guns made of the same make. How are we to tell the different owner?” I asked Dennis. “I’d much rather gather fingerprints, you know? At least those I could match perfectly. Or boot prints.” 

“Some...Like me, Tend to play with the bullets...scrape words or drawings into the casings. Otherwise it’s a long search.” 

I nodded and then looked over to another man walking into the saloon. “Hi sir, don’t think we’ve met either. I really need to hang out in saloons more often.” 

“Evenin’ ma’am… No, I reckon we ain’t,” the man said as he sat at the bar and gave me a grin. 

“I’m Trin,” I said, reaching out my gloved hand. 

“John… pleasure, ma’am,” John said and shook my hand. He held up his glass briefly in a ‘cheers’ signal. 

“Howdy.” Dennis said to the man and drank his whiskey. “Jeez, the liquor at Annie’s is better, I’ll tell you that much.” 

“Nice to meet you too, John.” I looked over at Dennis and said, “Honestly, I’ve been thinkin’ people need to hang out in saloons more in this town. They’re always in the streets or in Annie’s. And Annie’s ain’t my kind of place.” 

“Eh… This close to Mexico… We take what we can get, right?” John grinned and shrugged at the man. 

“Ain’t mine either, But if there’s good booze it’s good enough for me.” Dennis chuckled and nodded back to the man. “I hear ya on that! The name is Dennis Spark.” 

“John Geary,” John introduced himself to the man. 

“Pleasure to meet ye. Good to see some decent people in this heap of dust.” Dennis laughed. 

“Ya’ll seen the poster out front the sheriff’s office?” I asked them. 

“The top hat?” Dennis shrugged, scratching his head. 

“Yeah... Recognize it?” I nodded to him. 

“Who said I was decent?” John grinned and drank his whiskey. 

“My memory ain’t great, but I believe that fellow Lot used to wear one…” Dennis shrugged and scratched his head. “Either way, it’s just a hat… Ye lost it, buy a new one.” 

“Of course, Lot.” I raised an eyebrow and muttered. 

“Is this detective business, ma’am?” John asked, looking at my badge. 

“Yeah, you could say that. Why else would I put up a poster of a top hat?” 

“Beats me… I ain’t seen the poster yet.” John shrugged. 

“Lost it? Maybe you thought it was pretty…” Dennis chuckled. “Who knows.” He looked over at John and said, “Never said you were decent. Never said you weren’t. Actions speak louder than words, so I won’t judge ‘till seen.” 

“That top hat was left on my kitchen table. After some outlaws broke in, stole my kids’ presents from under the tree, and daggerred a death threat to my kitchen cabinet against me,” I said as I looked at Dennis. “I find who owns that top hat... I find who wants to kill me.” 

“Well ma’am… Either Lot or the mayor wear that hat… But it’s been a while since I met the rest of the townsfolk.” Dennis nodded slowly to me. 

“The mayor?” I looked at him. 

“I believe he wears a top hat, right?” 

“Sounds like serious business,” John said as he looked at me. 

“That’s who I thought of first when I saw it... but I wanted to see what others thought. If it’s Lot’s... geez…” I nodded. 

“The mayor is a decent guy… Saved my life before,” Dennis said as he scratched his chin. “Lot would be my first thought.” 

I tried to picture Lot in my house and shuddered, remembering the blood tracing. I stayed quiet, realizing that it all matched up. I asked them if they knew of a woman named Sushi and they didn’t. “Well I’m glad I didn’t waste two hundred dollars on getting the information about the hat out of Rikki.” I sipped some more whiskey then and said goodbye to the men as I walked out of Kate’s. 

I headed over to the sheriff’s office and leaned against the post with a frustrated sigh. I went to remove the poster now that I knew the top hat probably belonged to Lot. The door opened and I looked over at him. “Might want to stay inside dear, I’ve got some news,” I said, walking towards him. 

“Oh my, such wonderful news just as I am getting off work?” 

“Yeah... not good news.” I leaned over to kiss him softly, relieved to see him. 

Thomas hugged me tightly and kissed me. “Ok, tell me what the bad news is. I needed some fresh air.” 

“Good news is I have a pretty good idea who owns that hat left in our kitchen. Bad news is... you’re not gonna like either option.” 

“Ok, I am not sure I like where you are going with this but tell me.” 

“I was talking to a man who’s been around Tombstone for a long time... he knows a lot of folks and is probably a good source since he used to be a Pinkerton. Anyway... he said the hat might belong to…” I took a deep breath and looked at him. “Either Adrian Wise or Lot. They both wear top hats such as that one.” 

Thomas choked a bit at that and said, “You do know you just said the name of the mayor of Tombstone right?” 

“Yes, I do. And the leader of the gang whose initials are traced on the cabinet in blood.” 

“But why?” 

“Dear, I can’t solve all the mysteries in one night.” I sighed and leaned against his shoulder. 

“Can you imagine... Lot in our house…” 

“No more than I can imagine Mayor Wise breaking in and threatening you.” 

“Unless…” I shook my head in agreement. “Unless Adrian doesn’t know that his hat landed up in our kitchen.” 

“Something tells me that someone in the Wild Bunch is up to something, and they’re trying to pin it on someone else.” 

“Or they’re just up to something. They did write their initials on the cabinet. They know I’m not stupid and would figure that one out pretty quick.” 

“Yeah, but why would they go to the trouble to put Adrian’s hat on our table. If it really is his hat.” 

“Then our only other option is that it’s Lot’s hat and he left it there as a signature.” 

“Well I don’t know about you, but I am not really thrilled about having to ask Lot about anything.” 

“It wouldn’t get us anywhere anyway. Not that asking the mayor has gotten us anywhere. If you remember I sent him a telegram weeks ago to no reply about the hat.” 

“Yeah would probably get one or both of us shot more than likely.” 

“So either it’s really not his and he just didn’t care about the hat... Or it is his and he’s just ridiculously busy with things.” 

“Have you seen Lot lately?” 

“I haven’t.” I shook my head. “Had a run in with Rikki earlier though. She said she knew who owned the hat but wouldn’t tell me.” 

“What about the rest of his gang?” 

John walked over then, the man I’d met in the saloon, and looked at the wanted board. “Miss Paige… you mentioned a photo before… I was curious curious if I could see it? I don’t know that I’ll be much help… but can’t hurt to try.” I nodded and gave him the poster copy. He looked it over and puffed on his pipe. “Well ma’am… It looks like a fairly common top hat… I’ve seen…” 

“Oh, one thing Riki did say…” I nodded and said to Thomas. “She said she knew who the hat belonged to... but then she said she wouldn’t tell me ’cause she didn’t want to lose him as her business partner.” Looking at John I asked, “Yes?” 

“Oh… Well, I was gonna say I’ve seen Mr. Lot wear a top hat before… but not like that one. His is shorter… Um… I’ve seen the mayor wear one that looks a lot like that one but…” He looked at the picture again and said, “I can’t picture Mr. Wise bein’ anything but a righteous, clean-hearted mayor… Certainly no criminal. Though I guess you never know what’s in a man’s heart… and I’ve always heard enough time in politics can corrupt a man.” 

I nodded to him, sighing a bit as I looked at Thomas. “I hate to say it, but it seems that hat is pointing more to Adrian. But why would he be in our house?” 

“I have no idea dear... unless, like I said, he doesn’t realize that his hat wound up in my house.” 

“That’s a possibility. Someone could have planted it there.” 

“Dear, you know what’s been puzzling me? We’ve only lived in that house for a couple of weeks. We moved there right before Christmas. How could people possibly know where we live already? We haven’t had anyone over except Irish, Cole, and Enola.” 

“What’s that dear?” 

“Well, I’m not a detective…” John looked between us. “But… I don’t know. Could be just about any explanation… like an enemy of his making a weak attempt to dirty up his name… but now this talk about Rikki and not wanting to tarnish some business relationship… That could be a lead. Although she’s a clever little outlaw herself and could be in on whatever evil is going on.” 

“Or she has nothing to do with it and is just tryin’ to bug me by sayin’ she knows who the hat belongs to and that’s all she knows.” I nodded. “Cause she thinks it gives her some sort of power.” 

“Well we both know news travels fast in this town dear. Probably half the town knew we moved to Bisbee by the time we got moved in.” 

“Just didn’t think people cared that much I guess,” I said and winked at Thomas. 

“Trin, do you think we should ummm...I hate to say it, but relocate the kids until we find out whats going on? I mean maybe they could stay at the Russ, or with Mr. Cole or something for the time being.” Thomas looked at me. 

“Hmm… well if she were truly being helpful… maybe she’d give you a name.” 

I sighed and leaned against the post. No... I don’t want to make them think we’re scared. The outlaws or the kids, I mean. I want their life to be as normal as possible. They’ve got Shira, she will protect them. They’ve already been uprooted so many times lately... I don’t want to move them again. And if Rikki wanted to be helpful, she would have just told me. Or taken the two hundred coins I offered and told me. But she didn’t.” 

“You’re right dear. I know Jimmy will try to protect them with his bb gun I bought him. He’s gotten quite good with it.” 

“There you go. Even more protection. They’ll be okay love.” I said and rubbed my hand down his back to calm him. “Besides… If they wanted to do more, don’t you think they’d have done it by now? It’s been a few weeks since that trial against the wild bunch member that I got hanged… Since they barged in the house… I truly don’t want to show them our fear. That’s what they want. Maybe I should just avoid doing hanging trials from now on…” 

“Me neither love. I know if I ever catch one of them around our house, there will be hell to pay.” 

“I think I better head back to the house. You want to come, dear?” 

“Yeah, I feel the need to check on the little ones right now.” 

“Thank you John, for your assistance.” I said to him. 

“My pleasure, ma’am,” John said with a grin. 

“Yes, thank you sir for your help. If you think of anything else, please let us know.” 

We greeted Angel and Ansar who were setting a trap in Ghenna for Mac and we headed home. 

Bisbee. 

We walked into the house and found Natalie reading Sherlock in the living room. “Well hey there, angel. How are you doing tonight?” I asked her with a smile. 

“Hey there pumkin,” Thomas greeted her. 

“I’m… okay.” Nat closed her book and set it on the nightstand. She pulled her knees up under her chin and I looked at her with worry. 

“Are you alright, Natalie? Where’s Jimmy?” 

“He went to bed hours ago but I... Um.. had to stay awake until I saw you come home safe.” 

Thomas looked from me back to Nat and asked her, “Natalie, what’s wrong?” 

“I went to church this mornin’... and prayed for you two…” Natalie looked down. 

I looked at my daughter and we sat down on the couch as I asked her, “What did you pray about? It’s good you went to church.” 

“Natalie, are you ok? Something happen to you and Jimmy?” Thomas asked as we sat down. 

“I know somethin’s going on with you two. You’ve been worried since before Christmas and I dunno why. I been actin brave in front of Jimmy but I not stupid. Somethin’s goin’ on, isn’t it?” Nat looked between us. 

I took a deep breath, knowing my twelve year old daughter was smarter than most. I looked over at Thomas, not sure how to answer, since I was still learning this part of parenthood. 

Thomas held my hand and looked in my eyes, then at Natalie. “Everything is ok dear. It’s just Christmas was busy and we wanted everything right for you and Jimmy.” 

Nat shook her head and looked between us. “I know that ain’t true. I know it. I been reading Sherlock and figurin’ out when people ain’t bein honest. You been tellin us to stay together, to go with Shira everywhere... to…” 

I took a deep breath and looked at Thomas. “We can’t lie dear,” I whispered to him softly. Thomas nodded and I looked back to her. “Honey... let me explain a story to you... you know how Sherlock has... bad people he’s gotta go after? And sometimes they don’t like it when he reveals that they’ve done something wrong?” 

“Yeah…” I nodded. “I guess bad people wouldn’t like that so much. It’s like he’s ruinin’ their fun. But he never really gets hurt in the stories and always comes out the one controllin’ everything ’cause he’s smarter than them.” 

“Well... your ma’s got people that don’t always like her either. But... we’re always smarter and better than them, right?” I looked at Nat and then back at Thomas. 

“Also munchkin, with you, Jimmy and Shira together, you are less likely to get hurt, or less likely to have someone bother you...there are more and more strangers in Tombstone every day...we’re worried about keeping you both safe,” Thomas told her. 

“Oooh... so someone not like something you did ma? I remember you were in court and were upset ’bout it but never knew why. I guess both sides can’t be happy there.. One guy’s gonna get to jail or whatever and it’s your fault,” Natalie said. 

I sighed at how perceptive she was and nodded. “You’re right, kiddo. And your pa’s right too. There’s lots of people in town that you shouldn’t talk to... so if you’re with Jimmy or Shira, if it’s a bad person, they can protect you.” 

“That’s right dear.” Thomas nodded. “Sometimes they umm… try to get others to do bad things. Just as your ma said, if you are alone, you are in more danger than if with Jimmy or Shira.”

Nat nodded and stood. “Well that makes sense... I just... didn’t want ya to have to think ya couldn’t tell me the truth. I know Jimmy don’t gotta hear it but I’m older... I gotta know if somethin’s not safe, ya know?” Nat asked, walking over to each of us and giving us a tight hug. 

Thomas hugged her and me together and kissed Nat’s forehead. “You are a smart girl Natalie. We both love you so much.” 

I hugged Nat tightly and said, “I’m proud of you, Natalie, wanting to look out for your little brother. Sometimes we gotta deal with bad people but we gotta be strong and not change who we are, got it?” 

“I got it ma. I love ya both too. Did ya read my article about our first Christmas in the Bee??” Nat asked. 

“I sure did. You’re turning into a great writer, kiddo. You know, I was a writer once a long time ago too... I ran a few papers before moving to Tombstone.” I grinned. 

“I sure did munchkin. Did you see my post in the Bee too? Your ma and pa both were in it.” Thomas replied. 

“Uh huh! Those were good resolutions! I put one in there too. And about the snowgirl/cow we found!” Nat grinned. 

“Go on to bed, kiddo. I hear Shira whimpering for you up there.” I chuckled. 

“Yeah your ma ran papers back when people still use stone and chisel, and grunted a lot,” Thomas said and hugged me tightly. 

I laughed and nudged Thomas in the ribs lightly. “Listen you... I was a teenager and I made good money runnin’ those papers.” 

“I’m gonna go to bed. Night ma and pa. Love you both lots!” Nat said and ran upstairs. 

“ You may have been a teenager, but men still clobbered their women with clubs and eat dinosaurs for dinner…” Thomas giggled. 

I laughed and kissed him firmly. “Thank you for being so great with her. I didn’t want to lie to her but I didn’t know how much to tell her either.”

“Well I thought I would let you say what you wanted to. I realize now she is too smart to lie to. I just feel she is growing up so fast.” 

“She sure is... she’s too smart for her own good. Well dear… I’m almost tempted to just lay back and fall asleep on this couch.” I leaned back in his arms happily. 

“Sounds like a good idea to me baby. I am much too tired to go upstairs anyways.” Thomas pulled the blanket over us and I fell asleep happily in his arms.