NOVEMBER 7, 1861

Steven and Gabie rode up to where a few of the riders where working on Buck and Caly’s house. He waved to Ian as he passed them, but his mind was on the meeting he would have with the judge later today. He was nervous. He just hoped the judge let them become a family.

Cody smiled when he saw who had rode up and walked over to where Steven had stopped. “Hello Mr. Johnson. Miss Gabie.” He took the little girl as she was handed down to him.

Gabie studied Cody's face. “You’re my sister’s friend?” She was unsure if she remembered him.

Cody couldn't help but laugh. “Your blunt just like Caly that's for sure. Yes, I am her friend and Buck’s too.”

Steven laughed as he took Gabie from the young man. “Gabie this is Cody. That's Ike, and Jimmy. They work with Buck.”

Gabie looked at the three boys then hid her head in Stevens’s neck.

The boys laughed. ‘I guess she's still a bit shy.’ Ike signed to Cody.

“I think so.” Cody agreed before getting back to work.

Steven rubbed the little girl’s back as he looked over the house. “She's real shy. Plus she misses Caly a lot. The house is looking good boys.”

“Thank you Mr. Johnson. When do you except them back?” Cody asked as he wiped his face on his sleeve.

The older man thought about it. “I'm not sure. They went to Red Bear’s village. I don't think they'll be back by Thanksgiving.” He saw the worried look on Jimmy's face. “Don't worry they'll be back for your wedding.”

Jimmy nodded. “Good, they’re both part of the wedding.”

“Right. Well, I better get back. We have a meeting with the judge to see about becoming a family. See you boys later.” Steven said as he put Gabie on his horse and swung up behind her.

Cody looked at his friends. “Guess we should go, too. Rachel has one, too. She will want us at the station for dinner early.”

Jimmy nodded as he went to get the horses. “Right.”

All three boys mounted up and headed for the station.