JULY 5, 1861

Walter walked over to the saloon. Desiree was performing tonight, and he had promised her that he would be there. He hadn't been able to make it there since she had started singing there again. He had been wrapped up in his businesses, the hotel and the bank. He had also been trying to figure out a way to sell the old Phelps farm and the Triple M  ranch. Not many prospects had presented themselves lately. He'd also had to be the hotel clerk at times, checking in and out people because the dining room had been to busy for Marta or Ted. But now since he had hired Jennifer, he didn't have to worry about being the hotel clerk any more.

He walked in and took a seat at the closest table to the stage. Richard brought him a beer, and he nodded. He really liked Desiree's singing. It was beautiful. It made him forget his problems, his stress and his businesses when he listened to her.

There weren’t a lot of people in the saloon tonight, but there were several. Teaspoon was even here. Caller Bob was in attendance. Jedidiah was sitting at a table with a couple of fellas. He had seen them in town but hadn't ever met them. There were also a few out of towners in the saloon, probably trail hands or just passing by to somewhere else.

After Desiree finished a couple of songs, she joined Walter at his table. Walter bought her a sarsaparilla and told her how wonderful she had been. She blushed, but she really appreciated the compliment. After they talked for a little while, she got back up and sang some more songs.

Several hours later Walter told Desiree and Richard goodnight. He left, got his horse from the livery and headed home. It had been the most relaxing evening he had in a long time. Desiree told Richard goodnight, and she went up to her room. She was happy that she had her old job back and that Walter was her friend. He's a nice man, and she enjoys his company, she thought as she drifted off to sleep.