DECEMBER 30, 1861

Michael helped Dagon and Palmer with their chores. He could tell they were excited about the wedding that was in a few days. Now with Buck and Caly back the house had never been so full. He complained about all the people around, but he loved having his sister back in the house.

He watched Caly closely since Buck had left a few days ago on a long run. He knew that the death of Two Eagles had upset her. But she never let it show around the others. In fact it helped a lot that her friends were getting married in a week. It helped boost her morale thinking about the blissful event coming soon.

The sound of a rider coming into the yard made Michael look up from the woodpile. “Hey Melissa,“ He called as he made his way over to her.

Melissa smiled as she climbed off Braids. “Michael, I was hoping you could go into town with me. I need to pick up a few things.”

“Sure let me tell Caly,” the young man said as he ran inside.

Holding the reins, Melissa watched as Dagon and Palmer picked up the wood and stacked it. She couldn’t help but laugh when one fell off the pile, but she quickly stifled it when she saw the boys frowning at her. She turned her attention back to the house watching for Michael to return. A few minutes later he ran back out. Melissa smiled when she saw him coming.

”Dagon, Palmer, Caly says to come in when your done.” He watched his brothers’ nod as he walked towards the barn. “Okay, Caly said it was okay.” He told Melissa as he past her on his way to the barn. He saddled Sport, mounted up and rode out of the barn, stopping near Melissa. “She asked me to pick up a few things, too.”

Melissa smiled as she climbed back onto Braids. She was glad that Michael could accompany her. Looking out the window, Caly smiled as she saw them ride out side by side. They made a cute couple.