Busted Gulch vol 7

Mystery Man (naomimrshl)

Mystery Man

I stood on the rock ledge,

Outside of the cave,

And watched the day end

... Not feel'n real brave.

So lonesome and homesick

I felt like cry'n...

For the song of the night'ngale

My heart was pine'n.

"I watched you today", a

Voice came from the shrubbery,

"Up by the tree line,

Pick'n teaberry. "

I thought my heart would pop right outta the top of my head!

But i stood real still - know'n there was noth'n to dread.

Hugh came up silently behind me.

"My arms have missed you.. "

His sweet voice beguiled me.

"You've made a life here", I said

As I leaned back into his arms.

"It's a life we'll share", he whispered

"If we dare - if we're strong."

"For now, you need sleep...

You're look'n some raggedy..

I'll stay on watch..

Tomorrow, we can figure out

strategy."

Hours later, I woke up to the sight

Of two silhouettes under moonlight.

"I have to see her!

Before the dawn's rise!"

I saw Hugh shift to bar the cave's entrance, as I ran to em both.

"It's ok, Hugh, this visit is not a surprise"...

I tugged on Hugh's arm... "Let him talk!... Remember our oath!"

I looked up at our visitor,

Shrouded in shadow.

"So, it looks like you didn't get shot up, blown up, burnt up, or broken.

Seems like that luck of yours is more than a token.

What is it that you have to say...

What is so important you hafta

Come up this way?"

"Dixiebird... if you're gonna run for mayor...

You'll have to bring more to the game than those teaberries, over there.

Good manners won't cut it... neither will your looks...

You'll have to win it by hook or by crook! "

I felt Hugh's grip on my arm tighten.

His voice was steely and low.

"You've had your say... It's time you go."

Finally, the tears that had

held back - burst out.

"We can't fight with each other!

We're all we've got!"

The sky started to lighten

"I have to get back!"

I saw home in his eyes.

"Somehow", I said " it'll all work out!"

Our visitor mounted his horse,

And I watched the men shake hands.

"Don't fret bout our Dixiebird ", said Hugh.

"She always pays her dues."

By the way, you best stop in later...

That horse of yours needs new shoes."