Disclaimer: Thanks to Trilogy Entertainment, The Mirisch Group, MGM Worldwide, CBS, TNN and Hallmark Channel for bringing this wonderful to us. And thanks to those seven wonderful actors for bringing their characters to life.
Thanks Rowan for the beta and all the assistance you gave us in completing this story. Your help was immeasurable, sister.
The doorbell rang. "I got it!" Dani yelled as she hurried toward the door and threw it open. "Casey! JD! Hi, come on in."
The duo followed her into the house. "Is Chris back yet?" JD asked.
"Yep. He and Vin are out back working that new stallion."
The walked through the house and onto the back deck. "Daddy. This is Casey and JD. Remember I told you about them."
"Of course I remember. Casey, Dani tells me that you know all the best shops in Tahoe and Sacramento," he teased.
"Actually, Rain is the one who knows all the shops. I just did the driving," Casey said.
"Rain...now she's Nathan's girlfriend, right?"
"Right," Dani said. "She has that little shop that we drove by the other day. It's closed on Mondays, which is why we didn't go in. That's where I got those dreamcatchers."
"Ah, yes. You told me they keep away bad dreams."
"Right. And JD is one of the guys on Chris' team. He used to be a cop in Massachusetts."
"And the one who knows so much about computers. It's nice to meet you both."
"Nice to meet you too, Mr. McCarter. Dani talked about you a lot when she was here," Casey said.
"I'm glad to have a chance to meet all of you. When Danielle came home from her trip she couldn't stop talking about all of you. And JD, thank you for all the help you gave her with the computer. She tried to teach me a couple of those video games, but I just couldn't get the hang of it."
"I'm glad I could help. In fact, that's why I'm here. Not the games, but the computers. Chris wanted me to download some programs that we use at the office, so he can use his home computer for work stuff if he needs to."
"I'll tell him you're here," Dani said. She turned around and trotted toward the corral.
"Geez, and people talk about me being an energizer bunny," JD mumbled.
"Dani makes that little pink furry creature look like he's standing still," Michael said.
JD shook his head, bemused. "I better get started if we want to get to dinner on time," he told Casey. She nodded as he turned to go back into the house.
Casey sat down in a chair next to Michael. They talked about how she met Buck and Chris in the diner and convinced Chris to let her prove she could do the job as his assistant.
"I was so glad to get out of that diner. I mean, the owner was great and the people were wonderful, but I just was not cut out to be a waitress. My feet hurt all the time."
"Dani's mother worked as a waitress when Dani was younger. That's how I met her. She was working in a restaurant where I usually ate lunch. When we started dating, I remember we usually went places where we didn't have to stand or walk a lot."
"I love working for Chris and the guys. All of them are so nice."
"I think I've met everyone now except Buck," Michael said.
"You'll be able to meet him on Friday. Chris told us this morning about the benefit this Friday, and everyone agreed to go."
"You sound excited about it."
"Oh, I am!" she exclaimed. "I've never been to anything like this. I don't own any fancy dresses. In fact, I only own two dresses. And those are business type clothes that I've worn for job interviews."
"Have you been to the store where Ezra's friend works?"
"No. That's one of the reasons I came out with JD tonight. I wanted to see if Dani wanted to go with me."
"Go where?" Dani asked. Chris and Vin were right behind her, but continued on into the house, Vin to shower and Chris to check in with JD.
"I'm going to go down to Chantilly Boutique tomorrow morning to get a dress for Friday night. I wanted to see if you wanted to go with me?"
"Sure! I asked Chris, but he seemed a little reluctant to go with me."
"Probably doesn't want to spend all morning in a dress shop," Casey joked.
"Daddy, will you be okay by yourself tomorrow morning?"
Michael chuckled. "I'll be fine, Honey. I don't have to be watched every second you know."
Dani blushed. "I know, Daddy. But I worry about you."
"And I love you for that, Danielle. But I will be okay. I'll spend the day relaxing and just taking in the fresh air. As Vin says, it's good for the soul."
"You like him, don't you, Daddy?"
"Yes, I do. I like them all, even the ones I haven't met yet."
"I can't wait for you to meet Buck. He's so funny and he's always trying to hit on women. You should see him when he flirts with Inez."
"I thought Inez was with Vin," he said, confused.
"Well, they are friends. I'm not sure if they're a couple or not," Dani said. "I asked him once and he never answered me."
"And he won't," Casey said. "If you want my opinion, I think he does it to keep Buck off her case. But I hope they are together. They really make a cute couple. We need to find somebody for Buck..."
Michael sat back and listened as his daughter and her new friend tried their hands at matchmaking. He shook his head. Poor Buck. He hadn't even met the man yet, but he felt sorry for him.
Vin came back outside, his hair still damp from his shower. He wore a fresh t-shirt and jeans. He headed straight for the grill and lit the briquettes that he'd put in the grill earlier. "Casey, are you and JD staying for dinner?" he asked.
"Actually, we were going out to eat," she said. "That is, if he finishes with Chris' computer early enough."
"Oh, please stay," Dani pleaded. "Vin, do we have enough for two more?"
"Sure. I'm just grilling some burgers."
Dani looked again at Casey, who shook her head at the younger girl's intense look.
"I'll go check with JD." Casey got up and went into the house, followed by Vin, who winked at Dani as he passed.
"You have these people wrapped around your finger, little girl, just like you do me."
"It's not that bad, Daddy," she complained.
"Yes, it is," Chris said, walking up behind her. "Casey tells me you coerced her and JD into staying for dinner." He and Michael exchanged knowing looks.
"I just asked."
"More like begged," Michael said. "But that's okay. This way I can get to know them a bit better."
Dani smiled. "I'll go help Vin," she said, jumping up.
"Grab me a beer while you're in there, Angel?" Chris asked. She nodded, dashing inside. "It's gonna seem awful quiet around here when the two of you leave," Chris told Michael as he sat down next to him.
"I'm glad she feels so comfortable here, Chris. It'll make things easier in the long-run. I like your friends."
"They're all good people."
"Casey suggested Dani go with her tomorrow to the dress shop," Michael said.
"I'll have to give that girl a raise," Chris replied.
Michael laughed. "I had planned on staying out here in the morning, spending some time alone. But I'd really love to see where you work."
"That can be arranged. I'll be going in a little late in the morning. I was gonna go ahead and stop by that tuxedo place and get fitted. You can ride in with me and get your fitting done too."
"That'd be fine. What about Vin?"
"He went this morning before lunch. I didn't want both of us to be out of the office at the same time."
Vin walked back outside, carrying a plate of hamburger patties ready for the grill, wrapped in cellophane, and a couple of beers. He checked the fire and decided it wasn't ready for the meat yet. He left the plate on the table nearby.
He handed Chris one of the beers and sat down, twisted the cap off the other one.
"Where's Dani?" Chris asked him.
"Calling Inez, see if she wants to go with her and Casey tomorrow to the dress shop. She said she'd bring you out something to drink when she came out, Michael."
"You know, I was never a big drinker, but I'd sure love to have a beer right about now," the man replied. "But with all the medications I take, I don't dare drink anything alcoholic."
"I got just the thing," Vin said, getting back up and going inside. A few minutes later he came back out, holding a bottle, and handed it to Michael. "I forgot those were in there," Chris remarked.
"O'Doull's?" Michael asked, reading the label. "Non-alcoholic beer. Is it any good?"
"It's not a Coor's, but it's not bad," Chris told him. "We bought them quite a while ago when I injured my arm and couldn't drink regular beer for a week."
Michael shrugged and twisted off the cap. He lifted the bottle to his lips and almost dropped it when his daughter yelled.
"Daddy! You're not supposed to be drinking!"
"Relax, Honey, it's not real beer," he said, wiping up the bit that had spilled on his shirt. "See, non-alcoholic." He turned the bottle around to show her the label.
"Angel, trust us, neither Vin nor I would do anything to jeopardize your father's health," Chris assured her.
"I know. Sorry." She sat down at the foot of the lounge chair that he Michael was relaxing in. "It's just that you have to be careful..."
"I am being careful, Honey. Just don't put me in the rest home yet, okay," he said with a grin.
Vin and Chris looked at each other, sadness on both faces. A few minutes later, Casey and JD joined them, the topic turning to computers, as they often did when JD was in the room.
"Right there! Use the missiles!" JD cried. Michael pushed down on the control in his hand, only to see his ship blow up on the screen. "Oooooh! Just a second too late," JD said. "You're getting better though." JD was sitting on the floor, Michael on the sofa behind him and to his right. As his last ship exploded on the television screen in front of him, he leaned back in frustration. "Darn, I thought I had it that time. But I think I'm finally getting the hang of this, JD. It's not a bad as I thought it would be."
"Dani is actually pretty good at it. You can play against her at home."
"Maybe next time I come out, I'll be able to beat you." Michael grinned. For the last hour, JD had been teaching him some of the easier computer games. During Dani's first visit, he'd taught Dani how to play. He'd agreed to bring it out so she could use it while she was in town. When Michael showed an interest in learning some of the games, JD had been only too happy to oblige.
"Maybe I'll get one of these when I get home. It sure would beat watching those stupid talk shows and soap operas all day."
"It's easy to set up," JD assured him. "The instructions can be a little confusing, but if you want, I can write it all down for you before you leave."
"That would be great, JD, thanks."
"Sure."
"JD, we should get going," Casey said.
Dunne looked at his watched. "Oh, sorry, I didn't realize it was so late. Maybe we can play again before you leave, Mr. McCarter."
"I'd like that, JD. And please, call me Mike."
"Okay, Mike. Chris, see you in the morning. Later, Dani."
"Goodnight, you two. See you tomorrow," Chris said.
"Bye, Vin!" Casey called to Tanner, who was sitting out on the back deck. He didn't reply, just waved.
After they left, the others decided it was getting late and headed off to bed.
Chris and Michael walked into the office about ten o'clock. They'd spent the last hour at the tuxedo store, getting fitted for the party Friday night. The proprietor assured them both that their tuxes would be ready the next morning, so they'd made arrangements to stop by in the morning to pick them up.
"Morning, Chris, Mike," JD called as they came in the door.
"Morning, JD. You handling the phones while Casey's out?"
"Yep. She said they were going to go to lunch after they got done at that dress shop, so she won't be back until after noon. She was expecting some calls and ask me to keep watch on the phones for her."
"Anything urgent?"
"No, just normal everyday stuff."
"Normal? Around here?" Chris asked, getting a laugh from JD. "Come on, Mike, I'll show you around."
Chris and Michael headed into Chris' office. Each grabbed a cup of coffee, then Larabee showed his guest around. He explained more about some of the jobs they'd been on in their relatively short time as a team.
They were just starting down the hall to the other offices when JD called out. "Chris, you have a call on line one. Deputy Carson from El Dorado County Sheriff's Office."
"I'll take it in my office. Excuse me, Mike, this will just take a few minutes."
Mike nodded. He headed toward a chair in the outer office, when something in the hall caught his eye. It looked like a group of wanted posters with pictures of Chris' team on them.
As he read the posters, his laughter could be heard in the other offices. Pretty soon, the team members were standing outside their offices, watching Michael's reaction to the posters.
Michael could be heard mumbling and shaking his head. "...shoot 'em full of morphine....kill 'em with a glare....slugger spatula?..."
"Casey apparently has quite the reputation with kitchenware," Chris said as he joined Michael again.
"What's the story behind these?" Michael asked.
"Most of them are presents from Ezra, his way of agreeing to join our team. We played a little game with Ezra at the beginning. If I won the game, Ezra joined. If he won, he didn't. This was his way of telling us he won the game."
"But he's with team anyway?"
"I found that I enjoyed the challenge too much to stay away," Ezra added as the other came down the hall. "Then, about a month after I began my work here, another poster appeared." Standish pointed to one with his likeness on it.
Michael read it out loud. "Wanted: Dead or Alive. Ezra 'I've got an ace up my sleeve' Standish. Charged with overuse of a dictionary and preening more than a southern belle going to the debutante ball. Reward for capture: Five-dollar earplugs for when he starts using those five-dollar words."
"It was the team's way of welcoming me to the team," Ezra said dryly.
Michael smiled before moving another step and reading the last poster. "Vin 'better than a hound dog' Tanner. Charged with illegal parking of a horse and pissing off every fugitive from justice he ever came in contact with. Reward for Capture: A super-size pooper-scooper and one 'get out of jail free' card in the event Tanner ever gets on your trail."
Michael raised an eyebrow in Vin's direction. "Pooper scooper?" Vin shrugged.
"It's a long story," Chris said, "and I promise to tell you all about it at dinner." He smirked at Tanner. "Michael, I'm sorry, but I'm going to have to cut the tour short. That call from Deputy Carson was a request to meet regarding a case he's working on. I need to run down to Placerville for a meeting."
"That's alright. If it's okay, I'll just wait here for Dani and she can give me a ride home."
"If I may, I have a suggestion," Ezra said. "I got a call myself a few minutes ago from the casino. They need me to come by for a few minutes to sign some documents. I would love to show you my 'other' office."
"Other office?"
"One of the conditions for Ezra taking the job with us is that he is still available to the casino when he's needed. He still consults with them and handles security when there are special events going on," Chris explained.
"We can contact Miss Danielle and she and Miss Wells can meet us there for lunch if you like."
"I'd like that."
"Excellent. I'll make the call and we can be on our way," Ezra said, then turned and walked back to his office.
"Well, it looks like you're in good hands," Chris said. "Vin, you want to join me. The others still have to do their fittings this afternoon, so they'll need to stay in town." Vin nodded.
Standish joined them again. "Well, Michael, I spoke with Miss Wells. They are still trying on gowns, so we have some time. I suggest we take care of the business first. That will allow us to enjoy lunch. I have also spoken with the concierge, who will prepare everything for our meal. Shall we go?" He asked, gesturing toward the door.
In the parking lot, Chris and Vin got into Chris' truck and left, heading for Placerville.
Ezra and Michael drove away in Ezra's Mercedes. A few minutes later, they pulled into the valet parking area of the casino.
"Mr. Standish, good morning!"
"Good morning to you as well, Eddie. How is school?"
"I'm all ready for the fall semester to begin. Got my class schedule just yesterday."
"Excellent! No problems with the scholarship?"
"No, Sir. Everything went just fine."
"Good. I have no doubt that you'll make us all proud." Ezra looked at Michael. "Eddie was this years recipient of one of five scholarships that the casino awards to our employees who wish to continue their education. Eddie, this is Mr. McCarter. His daughter, Danielle, and another young woman, Casey Wells, will be joining us a little later for lunch. She is driving a blue dodge neon and I expect both of them to be treated as you would a member of your own family."
"Absolutely, Mr. Standish. I'll take care of it. Mr. McCarter, don't worry. I'll be sure your daughter and Miss Wells are shown the best that Harvey's has to offer."
"Thank you. Danielle has never been in a casino before. I'm sure she'll be excited to see the inside of one. But she is only sixteen."
"We often have young adults in our establishment, Mr. McCarter," Ezra assured him. "They aren't allowed to gamble or drink. We even have day care facilities available for patrons with small children."
"Really? You know, it's been quite a while since I've been anywhere near a casino and that was in Las Vegas. You never saw kids."
"Things have changed. Casino owners have come to understand that even those with families enjoy the occasional game of chance and prefer not to alienate them by ignoring their families. The establishments in Lake Tahoe don't employ the grandiose props and entertainment that showcase the largest casinos in Las Vegas, but we do attempt to have programs available for children and family members who don't wish to gamble. We just tend to be more low-key about it."
"I look forward to seeing it," Michael said.
"Shall we, then?" Ezra gestured from Michael to proceed him through the doors.
One hour later, the two men were seated at a table in a back room of the casino. Three others were at the table with them. All were employees of the casino who enjoyed playing poker, but didn't like the tension of the often high-stakes games that occurred on the casino floor. In this back room, they played for fun...and pretzels.
"I'll see your five, and raise you five," Michael said.
Around the table, the other men made their bids. The bid returned to Ezra. He looked around the table, before he laid his cards down.
"Well, shoot, that lets me out," one of the men cried, tossing his cards on the table. He glanced at his watch. "I need to run anyway. I'll be starting work soon." He stood up and reached for the white chef's jacket on the back of his chair. "Michael, it was nice meeting you. I hope you and your daughter enjoy your stay here. You be sure to come some night for dinner and I'll treat you to my best veal dish."
"Thanks, Peter. I may take you up on that."
The losing player nodded and left the room. Around the table, the others also were tossing down their cards. Douglas, a blackjack dealer, and Cheryl, who ran one of the Keno games, also had losing hands.
"Well, that'll do it for me as well. I have to start work in an hour and I want to grab a bite to eat first," Douglas said. "Cheryl, you sticking around for another game?"
"No. I've got tonight off, and my son has a baseball game tonight. I promised him that I'd be there. Michael, I'm glad you could play with us today. I hope you enjoy the rest of your visit here."
"It was nice to meet you both. Thanks for playing with us. I had fun." The two both shook hands with Michael.
"Ezra, as always, I appreciate the lesson in humility," she teased.
"My pleasure, Miss Cheryl. Will you be joining us again next week?"
"Alas, I fear not," she stated with exaggerated drama, placing her hand against her chest. "I must journey to San Francisco."
"Ah, yes. I forgot." He turned to Michael. "Miss Cheryl's daughter, Haley, is staring in a San Francisco Theater rendition of Romeo and Juliet."
"Tell her congratulations," Michael told her.
"Thanks. I'll pass that along to Haley. See you, Ezra."
"Goodbye, my dear."
As Cheryl and Douglas walked out, a young man walked in, followed by Casey and Danielle. "Mr. Standish, your guests have arrived."
"Thank you, Carlos. Perfect timing. Please contact the concierge and let him know we will be heading to the dining room."
"Yes, sir. Ladies, enjoy lunch."
Casey and Dani watched the young man walk out, leaning out the door to follow his path down the hall. Then they looked at each other and giggled.
"Daddy, can I take Carlos home with me?" Dani asked. "He's really cute. We can tell everyone he followed me home."
"Ezra, I think my daughter is becoming corrupted," Michael said with a smirk before turning his attention back to the two women. "How was your day?" he asked her as she came around and kissed him on the cheek.
"Oh, Daddy, you should see the dress I'll be wearing. It's beautiful! Henri said that he thought I would be the most beautiful woman at the event!"
Ezra looked at Casey, who was smiling at Dani's exuberance.
"Well, of course, honey," Michael said. "How could he say different?"
"I have no doubt that our table with be the envy of everyone who will be attending," Ezra said. "The most beautiful women in both states will be seated with us."
"Not to mention quite a few handsome men," Casey added.
"I can't wait for tomorrow night," Dani said. "I've never been to anything like this. It'll be fun."
"Well, ladies. May we escort you to lunch?" Ezra asked. He offered his arm to Casey, who wrapped her hand around it and they walked out the door. Michael and Dani followed them, also arm in arm.
Although Chris wasn't big on charity events, he had to admit that this one was more pleasant than others he had been to in the past. He gazed at the people sitting at his table. Leave it to Ezra, he thought, shaking his head. Ezra's few tickets included enough for every member of his team and their dates, as well as Dani and Michael, plus Ian and his date.
They had filled up one of the many tables themselves. He had overheard several people mention that this event cost one hundred dollars a plate to attend. When Chris questioned Ezra on where he got the tickets, all Ezra would say was, 'from a friend.'
To Chris' right sat his daughter. Dani was glowing with excitement. Chris could almost burst his buttons, he was so proud. She looked absolutely stunning in her royal blue velvet dress. It had a high neckline and was sleeveless. Chris couldn't believe that he had played a part in creating this beautiful young woman. Next to her was Michael in a standard black tux that matched the rest of the men in their group. The only differences were their cummerbunds.
They had all decided to match them to the dress colors of their dates. Chris' was maroon, while Michael's was royal blue. To Chris' left was Jules, a vision in a maroon strapless dress. Her long black hair was free of the confining braid she usually had it up in. It flowed over her shoulders and down her back in a silky cape. Chris had caught more than one envious male gaze thrown his way since they'd walked in the door. But then again, he had noticed every man at his table getting those glances. It was obvious that all his friends had good taste in women.
Next to Jules was Inez, who was giggling at something whispered in her ear by Vin, who sat next to her. Vin was smiling, glancing at Buck across the table, so Chris could only imagine that Buck was the butt of a private joke. The ladies man had all but drooled when Vin and Inez had walked in the door.
Inez was dressed in a flame-red gown with a jagged hemline. Jules had called it a 'handkerchief' hemline. Whatever it was called, Chris had to admit that it showed off Inez's legs wonderfully. He wasn't surprised that Buck was drooling. What surprised him what that Buck's date hadn't punched him yet.
Next to Vin were Josiah and his date, Pauline. The older lady looked regal in her teal blue gown. Next to them were Nathan and Rain, the latter clothed in a golden form fitting dress. She and Nathan were laughing at some joke that JD was telling them. JD was leaning close to Casey, who was sitting next to Rain. Chris smiled as he remembered JD walking in strutting like a peacock with Casey on his arm. Casey was in a silver dress. JD had found out what color her dress was and had gotten a vest to match, instead of a cummerbund.
On the other side of JD sat Buck and his date Cindy. Cindy was dressed in a black gown and looked like a porcelain doll with her fair skin and blond hair. Buck had mentioned that he knew her from the PD. She was beautiful and very intelligent. She seemed to be able to keep up with the conversation as she talked to Ian, who was seated next to her, and his date, Kathryn, a fellow doctor. Dark haired Kathryn was dressed in a deep purple gown that set off her unusual violet eyes. Further conversation disclosed that Kathryn was an orthopedic specialist, a necessity in a ski area, and that she worked at the very hospital that would benefit from the night's dinner and concert.
Next to Ian was Ezra, his green eyes set off by the dark emerald green of his tie and cummerbund. Set between Ezra and Michael was an empty chair. Ezra said that his date would be joining them in just a little while.
They had been enjoying their cocktails, or in Dani's case, soda, when a man stepped onto the stage that had been set up in front of the room. He tapped lightly on the microphone, wincing as it gave off a loud burst of static. This got the attention of the entire audience. Casey, JD, Buck and Cindy had to turn around in their chairs to see him, as they were facing away from the stage.
"Good evening, ladies and gentlemen and welcome. I am Dr. Trey Michaels. On behalf of Children's hospital, I would like to thank you all for coming out tonight and supporting our efforts to build a new wing onto the hospital. We have a great evening planned tonight. Dinner will be served shortly, but I wanted to introduce you all to a very special performer. As I'm sure you are all aware, our musical guest this evening is one of our local residents, and I'm happy to say, a very staunch supporter of the hospital. Ladies and gentlemen, may I present Miss Stephanie Miller."
The audience rose to its feet, clapping and smiling. Flashbulbs went off as Stephanie Miller walked out on stage and joined Dr. Michaels. Kissing his cheek, she smiled sweetly. She was a stunning woman, with clouds of auburn hair and sparkling green eyes. Her dress was emerald velvet, with spaghetti straps that shone as the lights hit the sequins decorating it.
"Thank you, Trey," she said. "It's a pleasure to be here tonight. I'm always glad to donate my time for worthy causes, and this is one of the best. I hope everyone out there will give generously. Enjoy your dinner. I'll be back later to sing you a song or two."
After the applause died down, the couple walked down from the stage. At the bottom of the steps, they parted ways and Stephanie headed to table right in front of the stage. The table where Chris and the others were sitting.
Ezra stood up, smiling as Stephanie came around.
"You look absolutely ravishing, my dear." He kissed her on the cheek and pulled out the empty chair for her. Returning to his seat, he proceeded to introduce her to everyone. He introduced Michael last.
Stephanie held out a hand. "It's a pleasure, Mr. McCarter. Ezra tells me you enjoy my music."
"Yes, ma'am," Michael said, awestruck. "I've got every record you've every made. You're my favorite singer."
Stephanie smiled at him. "You flatter me. How are you enjoying your visit to Tahoe?"
"It's wonderful. It's so beautiful here. The lake is breathtaking, with all its colors."
Her laugh was melodious. "I said the very same thing the first time I saw it, didn't I, Ezra?"
"Yes, you did."
Dinner was delicious, prime rib with new potatoes, corn, and for dessert, the most sinfully rich cheesecake Chris had ever tasted. Jules remarked that it was lucky the pieces were so small, because otherwise the seams would have burst on her dress. Chris chuckled, knowing that she was exaggerating.
After dinner, a small band set up on stage and Stephanie graced the audience with several songs. Having never heard her perform before, Chris was spellbound. Her voice was rich, full and vibrant.
After Stephanie finished, the band continued to play and many couples ventured out to the dance floor. Everyone at their table took a turn around the floor. Michael didn't have alot of strength, but did ask Dani to dance. As Chris returned to the table and pulled out Jules' chair, he saw Ezra lead Stephanie onto the dance floor. He had his suspicions as to who had 'loaned' Ezra the Lear jet and where he got the tickets for tonight's event. Seeing Michael and Dani enjoying themselves so much, Chris wasn't about the say anything to the man, though.
As Stephanie and Ezra returned to the table, the band started playing a slow song. Chris asked Jules to excuse him and turned to Dani, holding out a hand silently. She beamed and got up from her chair. Next to her, Michael's eyes widened as Stephanie asked him to dance. He got up and accompanied her around the dance floor. Dani was watching him carefully.
"He's so happy, tonight, Chris. I don't know how to thank Ezra. This is just a special thing for Daddy, getting to meet Miss Miller."
"Well, judging by Ezra's expression, I'd say he knew exactly how much it would mean to your Dad."
"Dr. Hennessy was right, Ezra really is a considerate person."
Chris smiled. "Yeah, but let's not let on we know. We'll let that be our little secret." Father and daughter shared a laugh.
Saturday morning, Dani and Michael slept in. By the time they awoke, Chris and Vin had finished feeding the horses. Dani make breakfast for everyone, then she and Michael sat on the deck while Chris and Vin went back out to the corral to work with one of the horses.
"So, Dad. What do you think?"
"Of?"
"Chris, Vin, the ranch, all the guys. Do you like them?"
Michael didn't answer right away. He turned his head to watch the two men in the corral. They were saddling the horse, being very careful not to spook it. Chris had told them at breakfast that it was a wild horse that had been rounded up in Colorado. They were trying to break it for riding.
Vin held the reins as Chris slipped the saddle over the blanket that already draped the horses back. As the horse began to shy away, Vin reached up and petted its nose, talking quietly to the stallion.
"Vin's got a real way with horses," Dani said. "Chris told me that he's never seen anyone better."
"I can believe that." Michael glanced at his daughter, then back at the two men. "I really like them Dani. I'm glad I had the chance to come out here and meet all of them. Chris is really special. I honestly wasn't sure how he would react to finding out about you. I was scared letting you come out here all by yourself. What if he had turned you away and you'd been here all alone to deal with it."
"He didn't turn me away, Daddy. He opened his home and heart to me." She smiled at her 'other' father, as he stepped away from the horse. She saw Vin release the reins allowing the horse to run around the corral, getting used to the feeling of the saddle. "Oh, Daddy, I can't tell you how much it means to me that you and Chris are becoming friends. I know I hurt you when I said I wanted to find him."
Michael frowned. "You didn't hurt me, honey. Please don't think that. Your mom and I talked about this a lot. I think it's right that he knows about you and that the two of you get to know each other. Even if I wasn't sick, I couldn't have asked you not to look for him. I used to wonder what it must be like, not knowing one of your parents."
"You are my father. No one can ever take that away from you," she said, moving to kneel down next to his chair.
Michael reached out a hand and stroked her cheek. "I love you, Honey. I'm happy for you. Chris is a wonderful man and so are his friends. This was the right thing to do. I only wish your mom could have been here for the reunion."
"She was, Daddy. I feel her here. I think she's been here all along." She placed her hand on his arm and smiled. "I think she's smiling down on this and wondering why she was so afraid to find him earlier."
"Maybe. But I think you're right. She is here. I can feel her too. In here," he said, tapping his chest over his heart.
Their conversation was interrupted by a yell.
"Look out!" Vin yelled as both he and Chris jumped onto the fence rails as the wild horse galloped by. The men slid down the other side, laughter following them. "You know, Cowboy, I don't think that fella likes that saddle."
"Appears not," Chris replied with a smile. "We'll just let him run around and get some of that anger out. Let's go grab something to drink."
Vin nodded and followed his friend back to the house.
The entire group had decided to make an outing to the Ponderosa that day. The group was walking down the main street of the western town. Dani reached into the bag she carried and pulled the dark brown folder inside. She opened it up and smiled.
Her fathers had agreed to pose with her for an old-time photograph. In the photo, Dani was dressed as a saloon girl. Chris was dressed as a gunslinger, while Michael wore a Sheriff's badge and gun belt. There were several different poses, some of all three of them together and one with Dani alone with each man. She also had one with her two fathers together.
The others were also looking at photographs. She was surprised that everyone had agreed to pose for shots. Luckily they had gotten there early, so there hadn't been anyone else waiting. She pulled out the one shot that everyone was included in and smiled.
There was Vin, wearing a buckskin coat, with a rifle resting against one shoulder. In front of him, Inez was clothed in a multi-colored top and bright red skirt, which set off her dark beauty, evident even in the sepia toned photo.
JD and Buck were dressed as deputies and stood supportively behind Michael. Ezra, as always, was nattily dressed--as a gambler, of course. Josiah wore a colorful serape and large floppy hat.
The sleeves of Nathan's billowy white shirt were held up by black arm garter. The photographer had placed him behind the upright piano, with Rain perched on top, her legs crossed sexily as she smiled at her man. Rain, like Dani, wore a saloon girl's outfit. Dani sat on the bar, in front of a large mirror, a feathered boa wrapped around her shoulder. She had a small derringer slid behind the garter belt around her thigh.
And, boy oh boy, how she had argued with Chris and Michael to be able to wear that outfit. But some assistance from Jules and Inez finally convinced the men to allow her to enjoy herself.
Jules was dressed in a tightly-bodiced dark green dress, her hair piled on top of her head, with soft curls framing her face. She was the very picture of a classy western lady, pretending to be upset with Chris, who stood next to her.
Chris was ominous in all black, from hat to boots. The gunbelt strapped around his waist was highlighted with silver conches, as was his hat. A bottle of whiskey was clutched in his left fist. He had originally refused to smile in the photo, said it would have been out of character. But Dani noticed that there was a smirking grin on his face after all.
Michael was the perfect Sheriff. He sat in front of JD and Buck, a shotgun in one hand, the jail keys dangling from the other. He had a huge smile on his face. He looked strong and proud, just how Dani would always think of him.
After the photos, the group removed the western clothing. Buck hung up the gunbelt he wore and placed the hat back on the hat rack. Then an employee helped him remove the sheriff's duds. He walked back into the main area of the room and saw Dani and Chris looking at the photos, deciding how many copies to get of each photo.
"So, Angel," Chris said. "What are we going to dress up as next time you come to town? This seems like it's becoming a habit whenever you visit. And I'm telling you right now, I draw the line at clowns." She laughed, trying to picture Chris is red nose, orange wig and big shoes.
"At least you looked the part of a gunfighter, Mr. Larabee," Ezra remarked. "And I, of course, looked dapper as the gambler." He shook his head. "Unfortunately, Mr. Wilmington was out of his element. He looked more like that fore-mentioned clown."
"At least I wasn't wearing a dress, hey, Ezra?" Buck asked with a smirk.
Standish spun around to see Buck right behind him. He raised a finger and shook it in Buck's face. "You will not repeat that story, Mr. Wilmington!" he hissed quietly, although not so quiet that the others couldn't hear him.
The others exchanged curious looks.
Buck smiled. "Ezra, you need to lighten up, pard."
"Not a word, Mr. Wilmington," Ezra warned, turning away.
Buck leaned forward and whispered into Ezra's ear. "Neo-natal."
Ezra's eyes narrowed and he turned back around slowly. "No! You will not repeat the debacle."
"Labor pains," Buck replied.
Ezra took a deep breath and smiled. "Mr. Wilmington, I have just one thing to say to you."
Buck smiled and crossed his arms across his chest, waiting for Ezra to continue.
"El Diablo," Standish commented.
The color drained from Buck's face. "You wouldn't."
"Care to make a wager on that?"
"No, Ezra you promised."
"Yes, I did, didn't I?" The smile on his face bordered on evil.
Wilmington grabbed Ezra arm. "Please, you can't repeat that story to anyone."
Ezra looked down at Buck's hand on his arm for several long seconds, until Buck took the hint and let him go. Ezra looked up and met Buck's eyes. He leaned in and softly said, "Arf, arf." He looked up and his smile widened.
Buck frowned. "Alright. I promise, I won't mentioned it again." Ezra nodded and turned back around. Buck walked past him and headed toward the door. As he stepped outside, he looked back over his shoulder. "But Ezra, you sure looked cute in purple..."
Standish looked up to find Buck on the boardwalk outside the door. "Mr. Wilmington!"
Buck took off running, with Ezra just steps behind. Buck's laughter drifted back to those left behind.
Chris looked around and saw the curiosity still on the faces of the others. He shrugged, then smiled. "Not to worry. I'll just get Buck drunk some night. He can't keep secrets when he's drunk." He nodded his head in assurance and walked outside, followed by the others, carrying their purchases.
The group roamed the grounds, until finally they made it to the end of the property where the ranch house sat. Checking the board on the wall, they realized that the next tour would begin in just ten minutes, so they decided to wait. Soon, a young woman wearing a calico dress gathered the group, along with several other visitors, and began to give them the history of the house.
Michael was excited to be walking through the actually house that was used for filming his favorite old television show. The tour started in the kitchen, where a mannequin of Hop Sing, the cook, stood behind the stove. He smiled when he saw the huge fireplace and the desk that 'Ben Cartwright' sat behind as he ran his ranch. The tour guide showed them the moveable wall, behind which the cameras would shoot from.
After the main part of their group had exited, Michael took several photos. Then he handed the camera to Vin, who took a couple more of Michael in the house. First Michael posed next to the famous map, which used to grace the opening credits of the show. Then he posed with the fireplace and staircase behind him.
Chris and Dani stood near the exit door, watching Michael, who was about as excited as a little kid at a circus. He was regaling Vin with synopsis of his favorite episodes. From the comments that Vin made, it was obvious that the younger man was very familiar with the show.
"Remember the one where Hoss met the leprechauns?" Vin asked. "Or where he played the Easter Bunny?"
The two men laughed as they remembered the humorous episodes. Dani and Chris exchanged smiles. They were glad to see Michael enjoying himself. They knew he would be tired by the end of the day.
After lunch, the group wandered over to a cordoned off area and sat down on the hay bales scattered around. A girl tapped Buck on the shoulder and whispered in his ear. He nodded and left with her, saying he'd be right back.
A few minutes later, the 'gunfight' began. Stuntmen and women, dressed as gunfighters and saloon girls acted out a scene where a couple of inept cowboys tried to rob the local bank.
At one point during the show, the saloon girl waved a handkerchief as she leaned out an upstairs window. "Help me!" she cried. "Someone please save me."
"I'll help ya, darlin'," Buck cried from the door of the jail. He moved into the street, dressed in duster and cowboy hat, a sheriff's badge on his chest. Dani picked up her camera and began shooting away.
The girl smiled and waved at Buck, which in turn caused one of the 'bank robbers' to turn and point his gun at Buck. "You making a move on my gal, buddy?" he asked.
"Who me?" Buck asked. "Well, sure, pard. I'll fight ya for her."
Buck and the bad guy faced off in the street. After a couple false starts, the gunfight ended with the bad guy on the ground, on his back with his feet sticking up in the air for almost a minute before he finally 'died' and they flopped down the ground.
Buck then ran up the steps to the save the girl. He leaned out the window to take his bows, only to be grabbed around the waist by the girl and dragged back into the room. The people who knew him weren't surprised when he didn't protest. The show over, the crowd dispersed.
Ten minutes later, Buck rejoined them, his arm around the waist of saloon girl. Buck introduced her, then she left to get ready for the next show. But not before leaving her phone number with her 'savior'.
In unison, the group shook their heads. Buck would never change. Wilmington just smiled and tucked the number into his jeans pocket.
After visiting the rest of the shops and the displays of antique items, Nathan noticed that Michael was beginning the lag behind. He fell back to walk beside him.
"You doing okay?"
Michael nodded. "Just getting a little tired. But it's a good tired."
"So, you've enjoyed yourself, then?"
"Oh, yeah. Dani couldn't stop talking about her visit here with Vin. I remember, as I looked at the pictures, wishing that I could have been here with her. I'm glad we got the chance to come. It brings back some great memories from when I was a kid."
"I remember watching the show when I was young too. I had a teacher in school who was upset that the show didn't have any black cowboys. I did a paper for school of the role of black cowboys in settling the west. I got an A+ on that paper. My folks were very proud. I think Hop Sing was my favorite character. He was just the cook, but the Cartwright men respected him, ya know?"
"I always liked Hoss," another voice said from just in front of them. Josiah slowed so they could catch up with him. "He was a big man, but gentle as well. I always admired that." A discussion of favorite characters ensued as they walked slowly toward the exit, matching Michael's gait.
Vin ran ahead to move the truck closer. Michael was grateful to see him pull up right outside the exit. He hadn't been looking forward to that long trek across the lot. The group said their goodbyes and headed their separate ways.
Before they made it back to the ranch, both Michael and Dani were dozing in the back seat.
The rest of the week was relatively quiet for Michael and Dani. Both Chris and Vin had to work, since they'd picked up a new case. But each member of the team made it a point to stop by at least once during the week to spend some time with them. They would be leaving on Sunday, so it was decided to have a barbeque the day before to give everyone a chance to say goodbye to the pair.
Nathan and Josiah stopped by on Wednesday, Nathan wanted to check that Michael was doing okay. While Nathan helped Dani fix lunch, Josiah and Michael took a walk around the corral.
"Josiah, can I ask you a question?"
"Of course, Michael."
"Has Dani talked to you at all about my... situation. I mean, neither her mother or I were overly religious. We never went to church or anything. But we've always encouraged Dani to seek her own answers about spiritual things. I was wondering if she might have talked to you about God or dying."
"No, she hasn't spoken to me, but I would do everything I could to answer any questions she might have. Mind you, I don't follow any particular religion myself. I basically just do what feels right for me."
Michael nodded. "I believe in a higher power. Just not sure what to call Him."
"No need to really call Him anything specifically. I tend to think that He put us here on Earth and guides us, but doesn't force us to live our lives in a certain way. He's very much a nurturing parent, not a strict authoritarian."
"I like that description," Michael said with a smile. "Some religions are so strict. I could never do that to Dani, force her to follow a religion just because it was family tradition. I got away from that myself. My parents were both very strict Catholics. I went to a Catholic school growing up, so we went to Mass every day before school and on Sundays. I rebelled in high school and stopped going. I just can't bring myself to follow an organized religion."
"But you've lived your life as best you could. You've given love to a child who wasn't born to you. From everything I've learned about you, you're a good man who loved his wife and that child. Just because you didn't go to church doesn't mean that you'll spend time in hell. I've known men you went to church regularly, yet were some of the most evil men you could ever meet. What's in a person's heart is more important than regular church attendance."
The two men continued walking in silence for a few minutes. Then Josiah stopped and leaned on the corral railing.
"I was taught, growing up, that God is everywhere," he began. "I used to argue with my father, who was a preacher, that if God was everywhere, why did I have to go to church to talk to Him." Josiah smiled. "He didn't like that question and would force me to do penance for being so uppity. For my father, it was all about the sacrifice. Now me... I can look out at these mountains and see God's hand. I can watch you and Dani interacting, and see His love. I can sit myself down at work, and look around at the special group of people that I worked with, and be thankful that He allowed me to find my way to them."
Josiah turned and faced Michael, who was leaning on the fence beside him. "I can look at you, and see what your illness has cost you, and wonder why He puts such obstacles in our path, why He allows such pain to exist. But I don't know His mind and I can't pretend to understand His reasons. I can only lend my strength and my prayers."
Michael glanced at the beauty that surrounded them. He smiled when he heard his daughter laughing from inside. He took a deep breath and turned to Josiah.
"Both your strength and your prayers are very much appreciated. And I happen to agree with you. I was taught the same doctrines, that He is everywhere. I find myself talking to him in the middle of a ball game or while I'm reading a book, or watching my daughter sleep. That's when I feel Him the most. I can never give him enough thanks for bringing Dani and her mother into my life. And as much as I regret that Chris didn't know her earlier, I am grateful that I did, that I was allowed to be her father. Does that make me selfish?"
"That makes you human," Josiah assured him. "I know that Chris was upset about not being told about Dani. But I also think that he understands, in his own way. And he would never try to take your place in Dani's life. He just wants to make his own place. And I think that he has."
"Yes, I think he has," Michael said with a smile. "I think you all have."
"Good. I'm glad. Just know that, no matter what, Dani won't be alone." Josiah put his large hand on Michael's shoulder.
Michael nodded. "Thank you. You will never know how comforting that knowledge is."
"Josiah! Michael! Lunch is ready!" Nathan called from the porch.
Josiah waved that he'd heard and the two men headed back to the house.
"Okay, Michael, you seem to be doing okay," Nathan said, as he puts his stethoscope and blood pressure cuff away. "Any problems with the high altitude?"
"No, it didn't bother me. In fact, I think I've slept better here than I have in a long time. Maybe it's all that fresh air, like Vin said."
"Maybe," Nathan smiled. "I know I sure love it here."
"How long have you been here, Nathan?"
"Not even a year yet. I lived here in Nevada, but down near Las Vegas. Rain and Casey were friends, and when Chris was looking for a police officer with medical knowledge, she gave him my name. The rest, as they say, is history. It's a whole other world here. I went from desert to snow and mountains. A drastic change. Of course it helps that Rain is here. I probably wouldn't be as happy otherwise." He chuckled.
"I imagine not. Dani sure likes it here. When she came back after her first visit, she couldn't stop talking about the mountains and the lake, all of you. I'm grateful that you all made her feel so welcome."
"She's a great kid. You did a good job with her." Nathan sat down on the sofa next to his patient. "Michael... I hope you know that all of us will help Dani however we can. I know the next few months won't be easy on her. But she won't be alone."
"You don't even know me, Nathan. And yet, you're willing to make assurances to me about my daughter. I can't tell you how that makes me feel."
"You're right. We don't know each other very well. But I try to give everyone I meet the benefit of the doubt. And I have a good feeling about you... and Dani. And I've come to trust my teammates. I've never seen men who can read people as well as Vin and Chris. They like you. For me, that speaks a lot to your character."
"They're good men. You all are. Dani couldn't be in better hands. I can die knowing that my daughter will be taken care of. Thank you for that."
Nathan didn't reply, just patted Michael on the shoulder.
The whole crew made it out to Chris' ranch for a barbeque. Michael found himself the center of attention when the ladies surrounded him while the others played a game of touch football in the backyard. All except for Ezra that is, who stood on the deck, safely behind the railing. Michael chuckled as he remembered Ezra's refusal to join the game.
"Really, Mr. Wilmington. Do I look like the type of person who would willingly run around in circles with the sole purpose of attempting to avoid being smothered beneath perspiring and soil-encrusted Neanderthals."
"It's touch football, Ezra."
Standish looked at him with disdain. "And name one instance where your games of touch football didn't include full contact."
Buck thought about that for, oh, almost a full second, before he turned to his friend, a grin plastered on his face. "Ezra... does all that mean you don't want to get dirty?" Buck asked.
"Precisely, Mr. Wilmington. I always suspected you had a brain inside that hirsute head. I was being to wonder, however, if I would ever see evidence of it."
"Ah, hell, Ezra, I just don't wanna show ya up."
Ezra raised an inquiring eyebrow. "I am not concerned about such an occurrence."
"Buck, you gonna play or not?" JD yelled from the yard. <> "Yeah, yeah. I'm coming. Just trying to get Ezra to join us."
"Ain't gonna happen, Bucklin," Vin said. "Besides, it's not like the extra man would help any. Chris and Nathan and I are gonna whoop your butts with or without Ezra's help."
Buck growled. "Them's fighting words, boy."
"Bring it on, old man!" Vin challenged, smiling and waggling his fingers to prod Buck to join the game.
Wilmington hopped over the railing onto the ground. "Give me the damn ball!"
Grunts and groans mixed with curses and thuds as the game progressed. On the deck, Michael relaxed and listened to the ladies running commentary. "Ohhh, Nathan, nice hit," Jules called.
"That's my man," Rain yelled proudly.
"JD, watch out!" Casey warned of a blindsided tackle. JD turned just as Chris took him to the ground. A loud "oomph" followed. JD slowly stood up, with a helping hand from a smiling Chris Larabee.
Chris returned to his team amidst high-fives and congratulations on a nice tackle.
"Oh, he can tackle me anytime," Jules remarked.
"After he takes a shower anyway," said Inez.
"Oh, I don't know, a little water, a little mud, could prove interesting," Jules replied.
Michael laughed. "Are you ladies trying to corrupt my daughter?"
"You have to be kidding. If any boy got within a hundred yards of Dani, Chris would be looking for his shotgun," Jules told him.
"I don't think they would get even that close," Inez remarked in her soft Mexican accent. "Senor Vin would shoot him down from a mile away."
"Hmmm, that's good then," Michael said.
"Good? " Dani asked. "Just what I need, protectors. How am I supposed to meet any boys if Chris and Vin scare them away?" Dani protested.
"Oh, and isn't Josiah good with explosives?" Michael asked.
"Daddy!"
"Don't worry so much, Dani," Rain advised. "Eventually, they'll settle down...by the time you're thirty." That remark set the others laughing. Dani just scowled at them, then smiled as she joined the laughter. Then Jules suggested they go inside and get started on the meal. The football game would be ending soon and the men would be hungry.
Ezra turned and smiled at the group. He was happy to see Dani and Michael so easily accepted into this eclectic group. He was thrilled that they were enjoying themselves so much. He knew, once they returned back to Ohio, reality would set in again. But at least they would have some wonderful memories of their short respite.
He was an observer, settling back and watching the group. He saw the look on Michael's face turn sad as the other man watched his daughter with the other women. Ezra couldn't tell if the sadness was due to Michael's thoughts of the future and his absence from it. Or maybe, he was remembering another woman who probably had similar conversations with his daughter.
Michael closed his eyes, the grief evident. And suddenly it didn't matter if he was grieving for his dead wife or his daughter. Ezra moved over and sat down next to Michael.
"Did I ever tell you the story of Buck's encounter with a Chihuahua?"
Michael opened his eyes and glanced at the young man beside him. "Is this the same encounter you promised not to divulge that day at the Ponderosa?"
"One and the same." Ezra glanced around him, to make sure they were alone. "But I feel that you can be trusted with the truth."
"I would love to hear the story."
Ezra smiled. "I was still working at the casino then. It had been a long night. The weekends generally were with the influx of tourists and locals. It was about two o'clock in the morning and I'd stepped outside to partake in some of this wonderful mountain air. I expected to be quite alone, as I was in the rear of the casino, where non-employees are forbidden."
Standish took a drink of his tea before continuing. "As I stepped outside, I observed a vehicle with it's parking lights on, idling nearby. I could see a female driver behind the wheel, a tall male standing nearby, leaning on the roof of said vehicle. I recognized Mr. Wilmington, who was in uniform. At the time, he worked for the Tahoe Police Department. Due to distance, I was unable to decipher their mutterings. However, the conversation did not appeared heated. At one point the gentleman, and I use that term in the most general sense, leaned closer into the window."
Michael smiled, picturing the scene the Ezra described.
"Well, at that moment I heard an unusual noise. At first, it seemed to originate from the female. But then I saw the Mr. Wilmington jump back and determined that the noise had, in actuality, come from a diminutive canine, which had apparently been in the vehicle with the female driver."
Michael's eyes widened in surprised. Ezra smiled and continued.
"At that moment, another somewhat disconcerting din battered my ears. It was a high-pitched squeal, which seemed to emanate from Mr. Wilmington's location. He had begun, well, dancing, it seemed at first glance. But, alas, it was a dance I was unfamiliar with. I daresay, if it was the newest craze, I was uncertain that it would be very popular. The dance seemed to lack all rhythm."
Ezra smiled as Michael began to chuckle. This had been the reason he related the story. He'd wanted to remove the look of sadness from the other man's face.
"It was then that I determined the reason behind not only the dance but the annoying noise as well. I saw said canine, his teeth firmly clamped around Mr. Wilmington's...ah, shall we say, nether regions. Mr. Wilmington was screaming, crying, cursing and moving around in an effort to dislodge his tormentor. The last I saw of him that evening he was running down the road that runs behind the casino, the lady following behind him demanding the return of her pet."
Michael burst out laughing. He laughed so hard, it caused a pause in the game. He continued to laugh as Dani and the other ladies wandered back outside to find out what was so funny. He was still laughing as the men, glancing at each other in confusion, forgot about the game and headed for the house. Ezra sat back and smiled.
Later, while sitting around the dinner table, Buck felt eyes on him. He looked around and saw Michael staring at him from two seats away. He smiled. Michael smiled back and chuckled. Shaking his head in confusion, Buck returned his attention to his meal. A few minutes later, he looked up and again found Michael staring at him and chuckling.
"What?!" he asked, exasperated. Michael just smiled. Buck looked around the table. He stopped as he looked at the man beside him, seeing the smirk on Ezra's face.
Ezra leaned over and whispered in his ear. "Arf, arf."
Buck's eyes widened. His eyes moved back and forth between the two smiling men. "You didn't?"
Ezra placed a hand against his chest, as if to say "who me?"
"I'll get you for this, Standish. I swear I'll take out a full-page ad and relate how well you look in a purple dress," Buck hissed quietly. Michael turned away to answer a question asked him by Dani, who sat on the opposite side of him.
Buck leaned closer to Ezra. "Who else did you tell?" he asked quietly. He looked around, but the others seemed involved in their own conversations.
Just as quietly, Ezra replied. "No one. I thought Michael would benefit from the story. I wanted to lighten his mood."
Buck quickly looked at Michael, who was now firmly engrossed in the conversation with Dani and Chris. He nodded at Ezra. "But no one else!" he insisted.
"We shall see," Ezra said, making no promises.
Sunday morning found Chris and Vin unloading luggage from Nathan's borrowed station wagon. They had driven Dani and Michael to the airport, where Ezra waited to fly the father and daughter, and Ian, back to Ohio. Ezra was busy doing pre-flight checks on the plane.
"Michael, I'm glad you were able to visit. I hoped you enjoyed yourself," Chris said as the two men sat in the small hanger, watching Vin and Dani walk around outside.
"Immensely. It was wonderful. I can't tell you how much it means to me to have been able to meet all your friends. I know now that Dani will be in good hands. But then, I think I knew that after just meeting you. This is going to be hard for her, Chris."
"I know. I'll be there for her. I know it's not much comfort..."
"Oh, that's where you're wrong. It's a great comfort. I was so afraid what she might find when she went searching for you. I prayed that you would be a man who welcomed her into your heart and your home. I so don't want her to be alone."
"She's hardly alone. She has a second father, a big brother," he said, gesturing toward Vin and Dani. "And several 'uncles'. Every one of us has grown to care for her in different ways. I love that little girl, Michael. She won't be alone as long as there is breath is my body."
"Don't let Dani hear you call her a little girl," Michael said. He smiled as he watched Dani chase after Vin. "Amy sure knew what she was talking about."
"What do you mean?"
"We talked several times about trying to find you for Dani. I admit, I was skeptical that you would welcome a child that had grown up without your knowledge of her existence. But Amy...she said that you would never turn her away. It wasn't in your nature."
Chris smiled. "She's right about that. I would never have turned my back on my child. Especially a child born from the love I shared with Amy."
"Chris?" Vin stuck his head in the door. "Ezra says he's ready to go." Larabee nodded. He and Michael stood up and headed onto the tarmac. They shook hands, then Michael pulled his new friend and fellow-father into a quick hug.
"Thanks," he whispered.
"You call if you need anything." Chris told him.
Vin helped Michael navigate the stairs of the small jet. Dani moved to the bottom of the stairs, then turned to face Chris. The sorrow on her face tore at his heart. He pulled her close and wrapped his strong arms around her.
"I'll be here whenever you need me, Angel. You call anytime, you understand?" He felt her nodded against his chest. "I love you, Dani. And I will miss you something fierce."
"I love you too, Chris."
The two stood in each other's arms for several minutes, not talking, just relishing the closeness they'd developed. Chris looked up to see Vin standing patiently at the top of the steps. He pulled back slightly and looked down into Dani's tear-filled eyes. Reaching up, he tucked her hair behind her ear. She sniffled softly.
"You call me anytime, no matter what. If you can't reach me, call Vin. He'll know where to find me."
Dani nodded and took an unsteady breath. She smiled as he wiped the tears from her face with his thumbs. She hugged him tightly once more, than turned and walked up the steps. Chris watched her hug Vin. She laughed at something Vin told her, which brought a smile to Chris' face.
Just before she entered the plane, she turned and waved. He waved back and fought to control his own tears. Seconds later, Vin joined him on the ground and they watched as Ian pulled up the steps. Chris glanced up to see Dani in the window. He easily read the 'I love you' on her lips and tapped his chest in reply.
Chris and Vin stepped back away from the aircraft. They stood in silence as they watched the sleek craft slowly pull onto the runaway. Chris stepped forward so he could watch as it took off, continuing to watch until the small jet was lost in the clouds.
A hand on his shoulder caused him to look at Vin Tanner, standing silently next to him. He nodded and followed his friend back into the airport and out to the car, continuing to glance at the sky, as if hoping to catch another glimpse of the plane and slightly disappointed when he couldn't.
Chris reached for the ringing phone on his way out of the kitchen. He and Vin were getting ready to spend the afternoon watching football. Vin was bringing in some more wood before he got a fire going.
"Larabee."
"Chris?" a small voice asked. He could tell she'd been crying.
"Angel? Are you okay?"
"Oh, God," she started crying.
"Angel, tell me what's wrong. Is it your Dad? Is it Michael?" Vin looked up, concerned. "C'mon, Dani, talk to me." Chris shrugged at Tanner's inquisitive look.
"He's back in the hospital. The doctors... they don't think... oh, God!"
"Dani... I'm coming there, Angel." Vin stood and walked over to his jacket. He pulled out his cellphone and then walked out of the room. "Honey, is anyone there with you?"
It took a couple of minutes for Dani to calm down enough to continue. "Yeah, Mrs. Connor is here. But, Chris, she can't stay all night, she has kids at home."
"Is she there, honey? Can I talk to her?"
"Uh, yeah, hold on."
"Angel?"
"Yeah?" she asked, the continuing tears still evident in her voice.
"I wish I could tell you not to worry, but remember he loves you. And I'll be there as soon as I can be."
"Okay. Here's Mrs. Connor." Chris heard some soft voices but couldn't understand what was said.
"Mr. Larabee? This is Amelia Connor."
"Mrs. Connor, thank you for being there for Dani."
"She's family, Mr. Larabee."
"My name's Chris. Listen, I'm coming out there. I'll need directions to the hospital. I'll come straight from the airport." Vin handed him a piece of paper, which he read and nodded his gratitude to his friend. "I can be there by midnight."
He watched Tanner head up the stairs and knew he'd begin packing for Chris. He was also on the phone again, probably notifying the others on the team. Chris reminded himself to thank his friend for all his help.
Vin came back downstairs with a suitcase and garment bag, as Larabee was finishing up his call. He set the luggage down near the door and pulled on his coat. He walked out to the garage and pulled out Chris' truck and drove it around to the front of the house. He left it running, letting it warm up, while he went back inside the house. Chris walked back downstairs. He'd changed into jeans and a sweater.
"Ezra will meet us at the airport. He called ahead to have them ready Stephanie's jet. I called Buck," Vin told him grabbing the suitcase. "He was gonna call the others. And I got hold of Travis. You have a week. If you need more time, call him and let him know."
"Thanks, Vin. I'm not sure how long I'll be. The Horton case... "
"Don't worry about it. We've got it handled. Josiah can handle the meeting tomorrow with the Nevada State Police. And Buck will talk to the CHP. We're caught up with everything else. If any questions come up, I'll call. Don't fret about it. Take care of Dani."
Chris nodded. "We better go if. I want to leave as soon as possible." He pulled on his jacket, picked up his garment bag and followed Vin out the door, flipping out the lights and locking the door.
"Angel?" Chris called as he crouched down next to the couch. Dani was laying down, her head in Mrs. Connor's lap. He could see the tear streaks on her face and he reached a hand up and rubbed his thumb across her cheek.
The light movement woke Dani up. She blinked her eyes and looked around, confused, until her eyes focused on his. "Chris!" she cried and sat up, reaching out her arms. He leaned forward and wrapped her in a hug. "Oh, Chris! I'm so glad you're here. Chris, they don't think he's gonna... they think he... "
"Shhhh. I know, honey, I talked to the doctor." Mrs. Connor stood up, allowing Chris to move so that he was sitting on the couch next to Danielle. He kept his hold on her as she buried her face in his chest, sobbing. "I'm here, Angel, I'm here," he reassured her, rubbing one hand up and down her back and rocking her slightly.
"I'll leave you two alone for a few minutes," Mrs. Connor said quietly. "I could use a cup of coffee. Can I bring you something back?"
"Coffee sounds good." He glanced at Dani before looking back up at the matronly woman. "Thank you," he said, letting her know he was thanking her for more than just the coffee.
She smiled sadly and patted him on the knee, then silently left the room.
It was several minutes before Dani stopped crying. She'd gotten so quiet that Chris thought she had fallen back asleep, until she shifted and pulled away from him. She reached up and wiped her hand across her eyes.
"Better?" he asked.
"I guess." She looked up at him. His heart cracked at the look of anguish in her eyes. He knew his own expression wasn't much better. He didn't know Michael McCarter very well, having only spent a couple weeks with the man a few months before. But he knew how much the man loved this young woman. And how much she loved him.
He wanted to make it better for her, but knew there was no way he could. Michael was going to die. They'd known that for months. It had only been a matter of time. And now it appeared that that time was at hand. The doctor had told him it would soon, probably before dawn.
"Do you want to go sit with your Dad, honey?"
She gasped. She desperately wanted to be with him. But at the same time, she was scared. More scared than she'd been since her mom had died, just over a year before. She thought she was prepared for this. She had a long time to get used to the idea of losing her father. She was just now realizing that she would never be prepared for this.
"I don't know if I can," she whispered.
"I'll be right there with you. I promise." He reached for her hand. "But it's up to you."
Her intense gaze locked onto his. She drew strength from him and he was grateful that he could give it. She nodded. They both stood and started down the hallway to the ICU ward. Just before going in, she tightened her grip on his hand and stopped. He looked over at her, prepared to wait until she was ready to walk through the door.
"Give me a minute?" she asked.
"As long as you need."
She walked down the hall and into the ladies room. Several minutes later she returned, her face washed and her hair combed. She had wanted to look her best for her father, not wanting to worry him. He smiled at her and nodded his head, then reached for her hand again. Together they walked into the room where her father lay dying.
Michael had lost weight since the last time Chris had seen him. He supposed that wasn't too surprising since the medications he had to take left him nauseous. The pair walked over to the bed and Danielle reached out her hand to caress his forehead. Chris released her other hand so that she could sit on the bed next to Michael.
"Daddy? I'm here Dad. Chris is here too."
After a few long seconds, Michael eyes slowly opened and he smiled when he focused and his daughter. "Hey, baby," he whispered, the cancer having drained him of any strength. "I'm glad you're here." He moved his hand and she grabbed it in both of hers. Michael looked past her to see Larabee standing just behind her. "Chris, it's good to see you."
"Mike," he nodded a greeting. "I got here as soon as I could."
McCarter smiled and turned back to look at his daughter. They stayed in his room the rest of the night. Chris looked out the window and could see the first rays of dawn beginning to brighten the horizon. Danielle was curled up on the bed next to Michael, their arms wrapped around each other.
The doctors had removed everything except the oxygen and an IV with pain medication. His breathing had become shallower as the long night progress. Chris stood and walked to the window, stretching the muscles in his back and neck. He'd called Vin earlier to update him on Michael's condition and to let him know he'd been staying until after the funeral. He'd call Travis later in the morning to let him know he'd need an extra week, so he had enough time to handle all the legalities.
Chris thought back to his last visit. Michael had taken him to see an attorney and they'd handled all the paperwork needed to make sure Chris was Danielle's legal guardian after Michael died. He'd also given Chris all the instructions for his funeral services, so that Dani wouldn't have to deal with any of it. Chris had already given the information to the nurses so that the proper notification could be made to the funeral home. Chris would also have to deal with the dispersal of Michael's property, since it would all be left to Danielle and she wasn't legally of age to sign any official documents. He would sit down with Dani and discuss that later.
"Chris?" The blonde man turned from the window and saw Michael watching him.
"I'm here." He walked over to the bed and smiled at Dani still asleep, her head nestled on her father's chest. "What can I do?" he asked, looking up at Michael.
"I just wanted to...thank you again for being...here for Danielle. This will be hard on her and I'm glad...she's got you in her life now." Both men were whispering, hoping not to wake the sleeping girl. Michael speech punctuated with pauses, his breathing ragged.
"It's been my pleasure to meet her and get to know her. You and Amy did a wonderful job raising her and I'll never be able to thank you enough for that. She really loves you."
Michael smiled and smoothed back hair that had fallen into Dani's face. "I love...her too. She's the best thing that...ever happened to me. Her and Amy." Michael turned serious and glanced back at Chris. "You should...know, too, that Amy never...stopped loving you. Oh, I knew...she loved me, but you were...her first love and she always...talked about you with such a look...of affection on her face. It...almost made me jealous. She never...blamed you for what happened, even after...she found out that you were still alive. She was...wonderful."
"That she was," Chris said with a grin. "I never forgot her, even after I met Sarah and after Adam was born. I wish they could have met. Amy and Sarah would have been best of friends." They both looked down at Danielle.
"Take care of...her, Chris Larabee. I'm entrusting...her to you now. I know you'll love her and...be there for her."
"Always. And I'll be sure she never forgets you. Although I don't think that will ever be a problem." Dani stirred in her father's arm and he tightened his hold on her. "Looks like she's starting to wake up. I'll wait in the hall so you can say goodbye."
Michael nodded and reached out his hand. Chris grasped it with both of his own and held it for a long moment, the two men looking intensely at each other, understanding passing between them. Then he released the hand and walked out the door, listening as Michael quietly began talking to his daughter... their daughter.
Twenty minutes later, the door opened. Chris looked up from where he was leaning on the wall. Dani stood there, tears rolling down her face. He stepped closer as she walked out and let the door close softly behind her. A nurse and doctor were coming down the hall toward them and he shook his head, silently asking them to wait.
"Chris... " she began to sob as he wrapped his arms around her. Her legs gave out and she started to fall, but Chris reached down and picked her up, cradling her in his arms. He walked across the hall to the waiting room and sat down on the sofa, Dani in his lap. Her head lay on his shoulder and he could feel her tears trickle down his neck and under the collar of his shirt.
They sat there for over an hour until her tears were all used up. He'd shed a few himself... for Michael and for Dani... and for himself. He hadn't known the man long, but he'd become a friend. And Chris would miss him.
The funeral was held that Saturday. The rest of Team 7 had flown out to be there for their friend and his daughter. The day was cold, but clear and bright, with a fresh dusting of snow.
Chris was grateful that his friends were there, especially Vin. Danielle needed to spend time with others and Vin's quiet, assured manner helped calm her when Chris got bogged down in the details of the funeral. Josiah and Buck and the others helped as much as they could, but there were just certain things that only Chris could do.
As the friends, neighbors and co-workers of Michael McCarter quietly left the cemetery, Chris and Dani lingered behind. It had been rough on the young woman, not only seeing her father buried, but again seeing the grave of her mother. She had started to feel very much alone, until the quiet blond man had walked up behind her and wrapped his arm around her.
"Do you want a few minutes to say some private goodbyes?" he asked softly.
"Yes, please. I haven't been to visit mom in awhile."
"I'll be down by the car. The others went on back to the house, so you take all the time you need, okay, Angel?'
"Thanks, Chris." He kissed her on the cheek and walked down the hill toward the road where the Michael's Lexus was parked and settled onto a bench nearby.
Dani sank down onto her knees between the graves of Amy and Michael McCarter. She reached over and pulled a few stray weeds from in front of the stone with her mother's name on it.
"Hey, Mom. Sorry it's been so long since I've been out to talk to you. I guess the last time was when Chris came to visit a couple months ago. He's here again, Mom, but it's not a happy occasion this time. But I guess you know that by now. I know that Dad is with you. And I'm glad he's not in pain any more. But I sure miss you both."
Her voice broke and she began to cry again. She hadn't thought she had any tears left. She talked quietly to both her parents for several long minutes. Then she dried her face and stood. She turned around and was just headed down the hill when a voice stopped her.
"Well, Danielle, my dear. You're looking lovely as always."
She looked to her left and a feeling of dread settled into her belly. "Grandfather, what are you doing here?"
"I came to see you, my dear. Now that your stepfather is gone, you'll need a place to stay. Seeing as how you are still underage, I've come to take you home with me."
"I have a place to stay. I'll be living with the Connors family until I graduate."
"I don't think so, my dear."
"You don't have anything to say about it."
He smiled. "Oh, but I do. You see, I've already been to speak to my lawyer. He is drawing up papers to have you delivered into my custody."
"No! I'll never live with you, not after the way you treated my mother."
"Your mother deserved what she got. She disgraced herself and her family by having a child out of wedlock. It just proved to everyone how promiscuous she was."
"My father would never let you take me!"
"But Michael is gone dear. And it's either me or foster care."
"Or me." The older man spun around at the voice behind him.
"You! I should have known! It's bad enough you forced my daughter to have a bastard child. But to come back now and force your way into her life... it's appalling!"
"What's appalling, old man, is that you allowed your own grandchild to believe that her father didn't care about her. And you pushed your daughter away when she needed you the most, all because you were embarrassed. You're a bitter, self-serving, egotistical son-of-a-bitch. And it will be over my dead body that Danielle ever sees you again."
Chris looked at his daughter. "C'mon, Angel. Let's head back to the house." He reached out his hand and Danielle started to walk toward him.
But Earl Flannery grabbed her arm. "There is no way my granddaughter is going to go off with the likes of you!" he snarled.
Chris Larabee stepped closer to the man who had kept him away from Amy and Dani. He reached up and wrapped his hand around Earl's wrist and squeezed. After just a few seconds Earl released Dani's arm.
"Are you okay, Angel?" Chris asked, keeping he gaze on Flannery.
"Yes," she said, her tears evident in her voice.
"Go wait for me in the car."
"Chris... "
"It okay, honey, I won't hurt him. He and I just need to talk." He looked at Dani and smiled, winking at her to ease her concern. She nodded and ran down the hill and locked herself into the car.
Chris had watched her go before he turned his intense glare back onto the man whose arm he still gripped. "You listen to me, old man, and you listen good. That girl is my daughter. My name is on her birth certificate. And Michael McCarter signed over all power of attorney for her finances to me several months ago. So no matter what you or you lawyers try to do, she will never be with you."
Chris kept his voice low and intimidating. "And if you try, I will keep you tied up in court until Danielle turns 18, and then it won't matter anyway. Your own daughter hated you for what you did to her... and to me. I won't have you interfering in Danielle's life."
"You have no right... "
"I have every right. She is my daughter. I swear I will hurt you if come near her again. Do you understand me?"
Earl Flannery looked into Larabee's eyes with defiance, but the coldness he found there sent a shiver down his spine. He averted his eyes and tried to pull out of Larabee's grasp.
"Do you understand me?" Chris repeated as he leaned threateningly over the smaller man.
"Yyyyes, I, I , underssstand," Earl stammered. "Now let me go."
"Go home, old man. Go home to your pitiful, lonely life. And don't be surprised if you're serve with a restraining order in the future." Chris released his arm, pushing him away. Flannery rubbed his wrist and started to speak, but looking at the expression on Chris' face, he changed his mind and hurried away.
Chris closed his eyes and took a deep breath. It had been difficult not to slam the man into the ground. He was the reason that Chris and Amy had never married. He was the reason that Chris had missed out on the first sixteen years of his daughter's life. Chris shook with anger. It took every ounce of willpower he had not to chase the man down and show him the power of that anger. He slowly became aware of a voice calling him.
He turned to find Dani standing next to him, tears in her eyes. "Chris?"
"I'm okay, Angel. I just can't believe he... god, the nerve of the man!"
"He's gone now, Chris. It's okay."
"I'm sorry this happened, sweetie. Especially today."
Dani smiled. "At least he knows now that you are back in my life and that you'll protect me if he tries anything."
"I will do that. I promised Michael I would take care of you. I promised myself I would never let you out of my life. And I'm making a promise to you here and now, where hopefully your Mom and Dad can hear me, that I will always protect you from him or anyone else who tries to hurt you."
"Good. Now, let's head back to the house. My father's friends are waiting to celebrate his life." She threaded her hand through the crook of his elbow.
Chris patted her hand and they headed for the car.
Over the next few months, Chris and Dani spent time together every chance they could. Dani came out to Tahoe for Thanksgiving and Chris went to Ohio for Christmas. They talked at least twice a week on the phone, getting to know each other even better.
Chris surprised her on her birthday by flying her out to Tahoe. She still had another year of school before she graduated and hadn't decided whether she wanted to stay in Ohio for her senior year.
"I love you too, Angel... Yes I wish you could have been here too... No, I understand. I miss you, though. I hope you'll be able to come out this summer for a little while. Vin? No, he's not here. He took a week off, said he had some personal business to take care of. He'll be sorry he missed your call."
Chris was sitting on the back deck of his house, watching the sunset, while he talked to his daughter on the phone. He hadn't seen her since March, when he'd had to fly to Ohio to finalize some things for the sale of Michael McCarter's house. The money was in a trust account for Danielle for when she decided about college.
"Oh, Vin finished your car, so when you come out this summer, you'll be able to drive it back. But I don't want you driving all the way back to Ohio by yourself... Oh, well, yeah you can keep it here. I guess you'll need a car when you visit. And you can drive Michael's car while you're at home."
Chris took a sip of beer and watched the horses dancing around in the corral. As soon as he was done talking to Dani he planned to go out for a ride. It was still early and he could get in a nice long ride that afternoon. He was a bit disappointed that Dani hadn't made it out for Father's Day and hoped the ride woul lift his spirits. He glanced behind him when he heard the doorbell ring. He stood and headed into the house.
"Yeah, sure, the Lexus is yours now, you can sell it if you want. Did you have something else in mind?" Hearing a knock, Chris walked through the living room to the front door. "Just a second, Angel, somebody's at the door." He grabbed the handle and open to the door to find his daughter standing in front of him, a cellphone to her ear and a huge smile on her face.
"Happy Father's Day!"
"Dani!" He grabbed her up and swung her around. "Oh, baby, it's so good to see you. How did you get here? Why didn't you tell me you were coming?"
They were laughing together as Vin Tanner walked in behind her, carrying two suitcases. "You know, y'all can hang up now. Those phones charge by the minute."
"Tanner, you sly cuss. Was this your doing?"
"Not me pard, I'm just the chauffeur." Vin winked at Dani and took her suitcases down the hall to the room she always stayed in when she visited.
"I asked him to help me surprise you," Dani told her father.
"Well, this is the best surprise I've ever gotten." He hugged her again and pulled her into the living room with him, hanging up the phone on the way. While they sat on the sofa and talked, Vin walked back outside. He'd made several trips in and out of the house before Chris realized he kept carrying things inside.
"Vin, what the hell are you doing?" he asked, as Tanner walked down the hall with a cardboard box.
"Moving."
"What?! You're moving?" Chris jumped up and followed him down the hall.
"Nope."
"Then what... ?" Chris question died in his throat as Vin walked into Dani's room with the box. He spun around and saw his daughter behind him. "Dani?"
"Happy Father's Day."
"You're moving in?" he asked, hoping he was seeing this right.
"Yep."
"Yep? You've been spending way too much time with Tanner." He smiled and hugged her again.
"Only the last week."
"Week? This was your personal business?" he asked Vin, as the sharpshooter headed back down the hall.
"Yep," Vin replied with a grin. As he got to the door he turned back to face the pair in the hallway. "Hey, I could really use some help. Y'all mind getting your butts out here and giving me a hand."
Chris and Dani stared at each other, then back at Vin. "Yep," they chorused.
"Y'all are gonna drive me to drink," the Tanner drawled, his head shaking in exasperation.
Later that afternoon, Chris and Dani were returning back to house after a short ride. They were a couple hundred yards from the corral when Chris spotted Buck and JD on the back deck. The grill was fired up and as he watched the rest of the team joined them.
"Looks like we've got a full house tonight," he said. "Hope you don't mind some company."
"Of course not. Who do you think invited them?" she asked with a smug smile, which he returned.
"Taking over already, huh? I'm glad. Just keep in mind, I'm not sharing you tonight. It's Father's Day. You're all mine."
"On that note," she said, reining in her horse, "I have something else for you."
Chris stopped beside her and took the card she handed to him. The picture on the front was of a father and daughter gazing out at a mountain scene with a sunset, something the two had done often in the past. He opened it up and read the beautiful words inside. But it wasn't the printed words that caused him to catch his breath. It was the words she'd added herself, under the usual sentimental verse, in her delicate handwriting which reminded Chris so much of Amy.
In my life, I've been fortunate enough to have an abundance of love. From the day of my birth my mother always showed me how much and how deeply she loved me. When I turned seven, Michael entered my life and for the first time I had someone to call Daddy. For almost ten years, it was just the two of them. But I always knew there was someone else out there. Someone else who could love me and whom I hoped would except my love in return. And finally, I found you.
Since I've met you, I've learned how easy it is to love two fathers. How easy it is to suddenly become a part of a whole other family. Although Mom and Daddy are gone now, I'm not alone. I'm not parent-less. I'm not an orphan. I have a father who loves me. I have a father I love with all my heart. And I don't want to call my father—Chris.
So if it's okay with you, I want to call you Dad.
I love you—Dad.
Love,
Your Daughter,
Dani
He looked up at her with tears in his eyes and a smile on his face. "Angel, I would be proud to have you call me Dad."
She leaned over and hugged him. "I love you, Dad."
"I love you too, sweetie."
"Yo, Chris, are you two gonna come and eat or should we just throw your share to the wild animals." Wilmington's booming voice carried out to them at a distance.
"You can always count on Buck to ruin a perfect moment," Chris said, shaking his head, but with a smile on his face as they moved apart. He wiped his hand across his face, brushing away his tears.
Dani pulled her sleeve over her fingers and helped him remove the evidence of his emotions. Then she realized she had tears rolling down her own face too. They began to laugh.
"Let's go you two. I'm hungry," Buck yelled.
Dani's smile turned mischievous. "Race ya!" Dani yelled as she took off at a gallop.
"Hey, that's cheating!" he called as he followed her. Her laughter flew back at him on the wind.
"Dad. Dad, wake up!" Chris opened his eyes to see Dani crouched down next to him. "C'mon, Dad."
"Dani, what's wrong?" He sat up, worried that something was wrong with his daughter.
"Dad, there's some kind of wild animal outside on the deck."
Chris threw his covers back and got up. He pulled on a pair of sweatpants and followed his daughter down the stairs. He looked outside, but didn't see anything.
"Where was it, Dani?"
"Where was what?" came a sleepy voice from behind them.
"Vin! There was some wild animal outside on the deck. I was going to go outside and watch the stars for a while, but when I opened the door I saw it move."
"It's not unusual for raccoons and such to wander around at night."
"Vin, this was no raccoon, it was much bigger than that."
"How big, Dani?" Chris asked.
"Bigger than Mrs. Conner's German Shepard."
Vin and Chris exchanged glances. Vin nodded and grabbed the rifle from over the mantle. He loaded it and opened up the door.
"Don't go out there!" Dani cried.
"It's okay, Angel. If this creature is who we think it is, she won't hurt him. He's just taking the rifle as a precaution, just in case we're wrong."
They watched him walked to the edge of the deck and look around. He turned back and gestured for them to join him. Chris stepped out, followed by Danielle.
"Is that what you saw, Dani?" he asked and pointed toward the woods. She looked but couldn't see what he was pointing at right away. Then she noticed something moving, but it was so dark... suddenly it moved further out of the woods and into the moonlight. She saw a black shape with a silver streak down its back.
"I think so. What is it?"
"She's a wolf, darlin'. She won't hurt you. C'mere, we might as well introduce ya." Vin grabbed her hand and walked to the steps. He sat her down in a chair and then took a seat on the steps. Chris settled in next to his daughter.
They waited a good twenty minutes before the wolf decided it was safe enough to approach. She kept a wary eye on the new human as she got closer, finally nuzzling up to Vin, who reached out slowly and scratched behind her ear. Five minutes later, Chris moved, very carefully and slowly pulling Dani up with him.
"Really easy, now, Dani. Don't spook her," he told her. The wolf took a couple steps back as they sat down next to Vin. A few minutes later she approached again. Chris put out his hand and let the animal sniff him. Then he too reached up and scratched behind her ear.
"Give me your hand, Dani," Vin said. She let him take her hand and he put them both, intertwined, out for the wolf to sniff. "It's okay, she won't bite ya. Not while I'm here with you. But don't try to approach her if you're alone. And don't ever try this with any other wild creature."
She twitched as the wolf sniffed their hands, causing the wolf to jump back. "It's okay, girl," Vin said. "She won't hurt ya. She's just never met anyone like you before. C'mon now, come on back here. I know you came to meet her, otherwise you wouldn't have come back tonight." Vin's quiet voice drew the wolf back to him. He reached up with the hand still holding Dani's and rubbed her hand across the black coat of the canine. Slowly, he released her hand and encouraged her to pet the animal.
She smiled at him and stroked the wolf's head. The animal turned and licked its tongue across her wrist. She giggled. "That tickles. What's her name?"
"I don't know. She hasn't told me," Vin replied.
"You didn't name her?" Dani asked in surprise.
"It ain't my place to name her. She ain't mine."
"Oh. What do you call her?'
"Wolf."
Dani chuckled. "I guess that fits, anyway."
Chris and Vin exchanged grins over her head. "So she was here earlier?" Chris asked.
"Yeah. I saw her last night sniffing around the window. She's been out there before when Dani's been here. I wasn't sure she'd come back two nights in a row. But I figured now that Dani's gonna be here permanent-like, it'd be best to let them meet."
"Good idea. Just remember what Vin told you, okay, Angel. The wolf isn't real friendly when Vin's not around. In fact, she usually won't come close to the house when he's not here. Sometimes I see her sleeping on the deck, but not often. And don't do this with any other wild creature. This one's special. She and Vin have saved each other's lives, so they have an understanding."
She nodded before turning to Vin in curiosity. "Will you tell me about it?" she asked him.
"Someday, but not tonight. It's late and I need to get to work in the morning." He moved to stand up and the wolf skittered away. Chris and Dani stood as well. The trio watched as the wolf trotted back to the woods. She turned and stared at them for several minutes. Then she yipped and dashed into the trees.
"See ya later, girl," Vin said softly. They walked back into the house. "Goodnight, y'all."
"Night, Vin." Chris said.
"Vin?" Dani moved over close to the long-haired man. "Thanks for introducing me. That was so cool."
"You're welcome. G'night." He walked back down the hall to his room.
"Think you can sleep now?" Chris asked.
"Yeah. Goodnight, Dad."
Chris beamed. "Damn, it's wonderful to hear that again. Goodnight, Angel."
He watched her close her door before he headed upstairs to his room. He removed his sweats and climbed back under the covers. As he drifted off to sleep, he let that replay over and over in his mind.
"Goodnight, Dad... dad... dad." He fell asleep with a smile on his face.
The End
You are now probably wondering: what about Ezra and the purple dress!? Will Earl returned and cause problems? What is really going on between Vin and Inez? Those questions and others will be answered in upcoming stories. Yes, we have a few more in the works. Eventually we will open up this AU for other writers to play in, but first we want to set down the groundwork.
Keep tuning in for future installments. We hope you enjoy!
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