The conversation was light and jovial, in spite of the serious nature of Hawk’s visit to Helena. These folks were friends of his, a friendship forged after a dangerous time for Bertie and her daughter when Hawk was able to help them. He poured his second drink from the bottle on the table and tossed it back. He could still feel the burn after he was sure it was mixing with the heavy supper he was carrying in his stomach. It was sign enough for him to call it enough after only two drinks. When Sam picked up the bottle and started to fill his glass again, Hawk held his hand over it. “No thanks, Sam. I ’preciate it just the same, but I think I’m gonna call it a night. Rascal’s waitin’ down at the stable for me to come to bed.”

Blossom placed her hand on his arm and leaned closer to him. “You ever think about sleepin’ with somebody besides your horse? You know, all the time we’ve known you, you ain’t ever asked me for a ride. And I figure I owe you one.” She gave his arm a little squeeze. “I’m free right now.”

He was immediately uncomfortable. Her suggestion was the last thing on his mind. He glanced at Bertie, who had obviously overheard her daughter’s proposition and graced him with a smile of approval. He would not for the world insult them, so he paused while he tried to think of what to say. Finally, he came out with it. “Blossom, you don’t know how much I appreciate what you’re offering to do for me. Any man would. But I think of you as a true friend and never any other way. And I just can’t make it right in my mind to take advantage of a friend.” Blossom looked confused. She looked at her mother, who also looked confused. “I’d best just thank you and get on back to the stable,” he said, and pushed his chair back.

Before he could get up, Sam blurted, “Who the hell is that?” They all looked toward the front door and the menacing-looking stranger standing just inside. Dressed in black, from the Stetson “Dakota” hat to his stovepipe boots, he wore a double brace of Colt Peacemakers, with the handles forward. With heavy dark brows, he stared out from under the brim of his hat as if searching for someone. “Is that one of those men you’re looking for?”

“Nope, never seen him before,” Hawk replied, unaware that he was just about to get his second proposition of the evening, this one not so much of a romantic nature.