It had turned cold quickly and the sky became an ominous gray. Ezra was now seeking shelter from the storm he knew was coming. It still amazed him that even the desert could get a snowstorm. He kept his eyes scanning the horizon for any kind of structure. He was still another days ride from Four Corners and did not want to get caught out in the oncoming snowstorm. He pulled his Red jacket tighter around him as the cold wind whipped around him. "Chaucer old friend. I do believe we are in for quite a storm." He smiled as Chaucer nickered in response. Sometimes his own horse amazed him. He always seemed to understand him and know what he was feeling. He patted Chaucer on the neck and gently nudged him with the heels of his boots. He wanted to get as close to Four Corners as possible before the storm hit. Chaucer picked up his pace and Ezra thought he was happy to do so. It would keep him warmer.

Constance Phillips was coming the opposite direction as Ezra. Traveling on the same trail. She was driving a buggy instead of being on horseback. She was eight and a half months pregnant and had been traveling from her home in California to go back East to live with her mother. Her husband had been killed in a railroad accident four months ago. There was nothing left for her in California, so she decided to leave. Her friends told her it was foolish to travel alone out in the West, especially in her condition. She didn't care. She couldn't stand living in California anymore. Everything reminded her of Vincent and she couldn't take that anymore. Now she was on her way to Denver to catch a train back east. She was heavily bundled up with several blankets. The cold had come on suddenly, but in her condition she knew she would need to be prepared. It was December after all and it got cold everywhere. She also knew a storm was coming and soon. She would need to try and find shelter for the night.

Ezra brought Chaucer to a halt and climbed down. It was even colder now and the snow was beginning fall in light flurries. He pulled a blanket off of Chaucer and wrapped it around himself. He felt a little warmer almost instantly. He gave Chaucer a pat on his neck and made a swipe at some of the snow building up on Chaucer's muzzle. Ezra then mounted Chaucer and<br clear=left>

they were off again. He knew he would need to find shelter soon. He got Chaucer moving again as the snow began coming down even harder. It was at least a days ride to Four Corners yet and at the rate the snow was falling, he knew he would be in real trouble in a couple of hours. Every moment that passed had the snow coming down harder. The flakes were big and fat and were beginning to collect on the brim of his black hat. The blanket around him was being covered as well. He'd stopped brushing the snow off of himself as the snow was also collecting on his broad shoulders. He shivered as the wind kicked up. Soon, the warmth of the blanket wasn't helping much and he hoped he would find shelter soon. There were a lot of abandoned homesteads out on the plains. Hopefully he could find one now.

With every hour that passed the snow came down harder. The wind swirled snowflakes all around her and Constance was shivering despite all the blankets around her. The snow was sticking to her hair and making it wet. She began to fear that she wouldn't find shelter and she would freeze to death out on the plains. Maybe her friends had been right; maybe she shouldn't have tried to do this alone. Everything would have been fine if not for this storm and if she could just find some shelter everything might still be all right. It was starting to get dark and the visibility was getting limited as the snow came down harder. The white substance was quickly covering the ground and soon it would be harder to get her buggy through it. "God let me find some shelter." She whispered aloud. Her soft lilting voice somewhat shaky.

Just as Ezra was about to give up looking and make camp for the night a dark object began to loom in front of him through the heavily falling snow. He couldn't make out much through the snow, but he could see all he needed to see. It was a homestead, a small, rundown homestead, but it would serve his purposes for the night. He kicked Chaucer into a trot and reached the homestead a few moments later. There was a very small stable behind the main house. He took Chaucer in and removed the saddle. He quickly brushed him down and put a blanket over his back. His horse was one of the best friends he'd ever had and he took good care of him. "Sleep well my old friend."

Once that was done he gathered up his saddlebags and made his way to the main building. It was very run down and he knew it would not keep the cold out, but at least it would keep the snow out and he could be dry. Ezra moved quickly inside and closed the door against the freezing wind and snow. He stomped the snow from his boots and moved farther into the room. It was a small, one-room house with a sink and stove. He was glad to see the stove and a pile of wood. Obviously, others had made a similar use of the homestead. He would have a fire going in the stove in no time and that would hopefully heat the small building some. He set his saddlebags down on the small cot against one wall. He then removed the blanket and his jacket. Both were wet and he needed to get them and himself dry. His hair was also wet, despite having his hat on, which was also wet. He hated for his fine clothes to get all wet like that. He draped his jacket over the back of the chair that sat by the small table in the middle of the room. He quickly got a fire going in the stove and settled down in the chair that he'd moved closer to the stove. He was so cold and he wanted to get warm more than anything.

Constance was having trouble. She was shivering nonstop now and was very wet. The freezing wind whipping around her only made her colder. If she didn't find shelter soon she was afraid she would not make it. She struggled to maintain control as her mind struggled to concentrate. It was dark now and very dangerous to be traveling, since she new nothing of the terrain. She refused to stop though. She had to find cover and save herself and her baby. At first she thought she was seeing things. There appeared to be some sort of light in the distance, but she didn't trust her eyes. She was so weak and she was sure her mind was playing tricks on her. "Oh please let that be shelter." She pleaded. She would not be able to go on much longer.

Ezra had lit a lantern he'd discovered in further investigation of the cabin when it got dark and sat reading a book. He was warmer now and his jacket and blanket were slowly drying. He'd managed to fix some supper. It wasn't what he would consider a good meal, beans and a biscuit, but it satisfied his hunger. He was actually enjoying the solitude as he listened to the wind whistle outside the small building. Now and again the wind would come in through some of the cracks in the walls and a chill would run through him. There were a few places where the cracks were large enough to allow snow to come in and it piled up on the floor just inside the wall. He ignored it. It wasn't affecting him and he was just happy to have the shelter and warm stove. His head flew up as he heard a noise outside. Someone was at the door. He drew his revolver and moved to the door. He was not taking any risks. He didn't know who was out there. He grabbed the knob and turned it, bringing his gun up as he pulled the door open. "Good lord."

Constance was vaguely aware of the door opening and a man standing inside. That was all she had time to register before she lost consciousness. She wasn't aware of the man dropping his gun on the floor and catching her in his arms. She wasn't aware of him picking her up and carrying her to the small cot inside the house. She was in a sea of blackness and felt nothing. At least she knew that she was out of the storm. There had been a moment of fear as she wondered what kind of man he was, but it didn't really matter right now.

Ezra had reacted quickly and dropped his gun so he could catch the lovely lady. He scooped her up in his arms and carried her to the cot. She felt so heavy. He knew it was because of her wet clothes and her obvious state of pregnancy. He laid her down gently and removed the outer layer of clothing. He wasn't sure he should remove the rest. He was a gentleman after all and it wouldn't be proper to disrobe the lady while she was unconscious. On the other hand, he remembered Nathan telling him at one point how important it was to get dry as soon as possible. She could die if he didn't remove her wet clothes. He went and retrieved his blanket from by the stove. It was mostly dry and had been warmed by the heat of the stove. He placed it over her and then removed the rest of her clothes. The poor thing was shivering badly and he knew she had gotten very cold. He gently rubbed her arms and legs through the blanket trying to warm her. He used a towel that had been left in the cabin to gently dry her beautiful auburn hair. Soon, she stopped shivering and, to his untrained eye, seemed to be resting comfortably. "You're safe now Darlin."

Constance remained unconscious for a few hours. Her body was fighting to get back the warmth that had been taken from it by the cold and snow. She hoped that her body becoming so cold hadn't harmed her baby. As she rose towards consciousness she was aware that she had no clothes on. She could feel the blanket against her bare skin and for a moment she felt panic. What had the man done to her? 'Don't be foolish' she told herself. The man had simply removed her soaking wet clothes. She hoped that was all anyway, because she knew nothing about him and for all she knew he was some wanted outlaw. A moan escaped her lips as she began to wake. She was then aware of the man moving next to her. He must have been kneeling on the floor next to whatever bed she was laying on. Then he was gone and she drifted deeper asleep.

While Constance slept and regained the warmth she'd lost out in the storm, Ezra went outside. He unhitched her horse from the buggy and took him to the stable. Ezra thought Chaucer would be glad for the company and additional body heat. Ezra secured the horse in the stable and gave Chaucer a little attention. He then went back to the buggy and removed the blankets from it. There were three or four blankets and would come in handy once he could get them dried. He made his way back towards the homestead. He noticed that the snow was getting very deep and he hoped the roof did not give out on the small building. Once inside he spread the blankets out on the floor near the stove, hoping the heat would dry them more quickly. Once he finished that he moved back to check on Constance.

Constance was coming awake again and could sense the man sitting on the edge of the cot. She was again afraid, but fought that fear. If he was going to do anything to her he would have by now. Not to mention his earlier ministrations had been gentle and caring. She could tell that some of her body heat had returned to her, but she still felt a bit weak and thought she might have a slight fever.

"Take it easy now Miss. You nearly caught your death out there." Ezra tried to soothe her and let her know that she was safe. She had a slight fever, but she seemed much better than she had been. He was glad that he had decided to move the cot closer to the stove.

"Where......where am I?" Constance tried to open her eyes, but she just couldn't yet.

"You're in an abandoned homestead. Just relax Darlin, you and your baby are safe." Ezra caressed her cheek with his hand. Her skin was so soft and glowed with the slight fever inside her.

"My baby? It's....." She choked back a sob. She was so afraid that she would lose her baby now.

"It's all right. The baby seems fine." Ezra didn't know a lot about babies or pregnancy, but he had put his hand on her stomach earlier and felt movement. He was sure the baby was still okay. He hoped he wouldn't have to deliver it. She was obviously quite far along and if she went into labor he would be in real trouble. He thought he could probably do it if he had too, but he didn't want to have to.

"Who are you?" Constance finally managed to open her eyes and it took a moment for her eyes to focus. She had felt comfortable and safe as he spoke to her. His warm, soft southern drawl was soothing.

"My name is Ezra Standish. I live in Four Corners. What's your name Darlin?" Ezra looked into her hazel eyes and was mesmerized. She was beautiful and he knew he had to be careful. He could easily fall in love with this amazing woman. He had wondered where her husband was, but he would ask her later. The fact that she had endured that storm alone in her condition told him she was a strong and courageous woman. He admired that a great deal.

"My name is Constance Phillips, but everyone calls me Connie." Her vision finally cleared and her eyes gazed upon the man that had been helping her for the first time. Mr. Standish was an extremely handsome man and his green eyes held an incredible intensity. His scrutiny was almost uncomfortable. "My clothes?"

"I have them by the stove, they are drying pretty well. I have an extra shirt in my saddle bag if you would like to wear that until they are dry." He could tell she was nervous about being naked underneath the blanket and he wanted to do what he could to ease her discomfort.

"Yes. That would be so kind of you." Her instincts convinced her he would not do her any harm and that he was a gentleman, but she would still feel better with something on. She watched him pull the shirt out of the saddlebag. Even though it had been in there it still looked rather free of wrinkles. She could tell by looking at him that his appearance meant a lot to him.

"Here Mrs. Phillips. I will heat some beans and a biscuit for you while you put that on." He handed her the shirt and their hands brushed together. It sent a spark through him and he almost felt shame for feeling that way about a woman that was most likely married and definitely with child.

"Thank you. I am very hungry. So what brings you out here Mr. Standish?" She was curious about him. She had a strange attraction to the man and he seemed like a dream. He was so sweet and concerned.

"Please call me Ezra. I was on my way back to Four Corners when the storm hit. I would surmise that we were both quite fortunate to stumble upon this humble abode." Ezra stood at the stove stirring the beans and not looking at her while she put on his shirt.

"Yes, I would say it was." He had quite a way with words. He was obviously well educated; a man of sophistication and style. A man she could very easily fall in love with. It was so strange. She never felt this way about a man she didn't even really know, but something was stirring inside her as she watched him fixing her some beans. She finished buttoning the shirt and sat up on the cot. She lifted the collar of the shirt to her nose and smelled it, smelled him. It was a warm, strong scent and the feelings inside her stirred more.

Ezra turned around and brought the plate of beans and biscuit to her. She looked so much better. He knew she would be all right now. He sat down next to her on the cot and made sure she could handle the plate herself. "What were you doing out in this storm all alone? Where is your husband?"

"I was on my way to Denver to catch the train back east. My husband died several months ago in California and I was going back to live with my mother." She sighed. A few months ago her life seemed perfect. She had a husband that loved her and was going to have his baby. He had a good paying job and they lived comfortably. Now she had nothing except the baby inside her.

"I am so sorry. I did not mean to bring up a painful memory." Ezra took her hand and held it in his. He wondered why he was feeling so strongly towards this woman. Yes she was beautiful, but that was not something that usually mattered to him. No, there was more to it than that. He felt the need to protect her and take care of her, but he felt more. He felt something inside him he hadn't felt in a very long time.

"Don't be. I am fine and I don't mind talking about it." She had accepted Vincent's death and moved on with her life. She had her unborn baby to think about and couldn't afford to become lost in grief. She also enjoyed talking with Ezra. His gentle southern drawl was soothing and she felt relaxed in his company.

"You eat this and then try to get some rest. You've been through a great deal today and you have to take care of yourself and that baby you're carrying." Ezra got off the cot and moved to the stove. He added another piece of wood to it. He was trying not to use too much of the wood. It was all they had and he didn't think they would find more under all the snow that was falling. He took the plate from Constance when she finished eating. He was glad to see that she had eaten all of it. He watched her lay down on her side and he moved to pull the blanket up over her. He brushed a strand of hair from her face and smiled down at her. He could never imagine what it was like to be pregnant. All the pain and discomfort involved. And, the end results were nothing short of a miracle. It was amazing how two people could join together and create a new life from that simple, yet beautiful and intimate act of love.

"Goodnight Ezra. I owe you my life." She closed her eyes and was quickly asleep. Ezra had been right about needing sleep.

"No, Darlin. You don't owe me anything." He caressed her cheek as she fell asleep. She was an angel and he could not get over how beautiful she was. He got up and moved back to the chair. He propped his feet up and began to read again. He wanted to stay awake so he could keep the fire going in the stove. He needed to be sure that Constance was kept warm. In the morning, he would try to see if they could get out of there. He wanted to get her back to Four Corners before she could go into labor.

It was a long night and Ezra fell asleep in the chair. The snow continued to come down hard and the wind whistled around the small homestead that was more a shack than a homestead.

The fire in the stove dissolved into nothing but hot embers and it grew cold. Only when it became too cold did Ezra wake and realize what had happened. He quickly got the fire going again and checked on Constance. She seemed to be okay and was sleeping peacefully. Ezra moved to the single window the homestead had and looked out. He was shocked at what he saw. There must be four feet of snow with drifts that went all the way to the roof of the small building. They would not be going anywhere in the morning. He began to worry that they would not get out of there or be found before Constance went into labor. He knew his compatriots back in Four Corners would start to look for him after a day or two. He had wired Chris when he left Bitter Creek, so they should know that he was in trouble. He didn't have a lot of food with him and he would save what he did have for Constance. She and her baby needed it more than he did.

Constance woke early in the morning to the smell of coffee. It smelled wonderful and she wanted some. She also wouldn't mind another biscuit if Ezra had more. "Good morning, Ezra. Did you get any sleep last night?" She could tell he hadn't, he looked tired.

"Some, yes. How are you feeling this morning?" He could see she looked much better. Not as pale and much stronger.

"I feel good Ezra. I slept very well last nig.......ohhh." She put her hand on her stomach.

"Are you all right? Is it the baby?" He was worried now. She was having pain.

"I'm fine Ezra. The baby just kicked is all. Come here and you can feel it." She reached out and took Ezra's hand. Placing it on her stomach in just the right place for him to feel the baby kick.

"My God. That's amazing. It doesn't hurt?" He knew it did. It had to.

"A little yes. To me it's a wonderful feeling. I know my baby is all right." She smiled at Ezra as she held her hand over his. She suddenly had a strong desire to kiss him. He was so close to her and his hand on her stomach felt nice. Oh, what was wrong with her? She never felt this way before. Was it just because of her pregnancy? Or were these feelings genuine? Maybe she just felt this way because he had saved her life. She didn't think so.

"I've always marveled at the courage and strength of women. Having a child has to be a difficult endeavor." He pulled his hand away. What he was feeling was wrong. He didn't even know her and he wanted to kiss her. He stood up and moved to the stove. He picked up a biscuit that he had placed on top of the stove to warm and brought it back over to Constance.

"Thank you Ezra. It's really not as bad as all that. The joy of carrying the baby you created with the one you love is overwhelming." She took the biscuit and began eating it. She could tell Ezra was nervous about something and she had a feeling he was experiencing similar feelings to her own. She could think of worse ways to spend Christmas, but she could also think of a lot better too. At least she wasn't alone.

"Your clothes are dry now. If you would like to put them back on I will go outside for a few moments. I need to check on my horse." He gathered her clothes and brought them to her. He knew she would be much more comfortable in her clothes. And, he really did want to check on Chaucer and make sure he was okay.

"Thank you Ezra. You really don't have to go outside though. It's got to be cold out there." She didn't want him to feel like he had to leave. She could get dressed without him seeing anything.

"It would be more respectable. I can see if there is anymore wood out there." He moved to the door and smiled at Constance before he went out. He would give her the privacy she needed. He opened the door and pushed out into the snow and wind. It was cold outside, but he would not deny Constance the dignity to put her clothes on in privacy. He carefully moved around the building and made his way to the stable. Chaucer and Constance's horse were standing as close to the far wall as they could get while trying to stay out of the wind and cold. Ezra petted Chaucer's nose and spoke softly to him. He adjusted the blanket on his back and then checked Constance's horse, petting it on the neck. He then began to look around the stable to see if there was any more wood there. He found a few small pieces, but not much. He headed back to the homestead and moved around to the front. He knocked on the door and a moment later Constance opened it. She was fully dressed now and smiling.

Just as Ezra was about to step inside, a large snowdrift slid off the roof and right onto Ezra. He went down with the weight of the snow. He hit his head on the door frame and his head spun. He fought to stay conscious and succeeded. He could hear Constance saying his name as he struggled to get his bearings. His mouth filled with snow and he found that he couldn't breath. Ezra struggled to spit the snow out, but it just kept refilling. He began to panic and started to thrash about. He could feel Constance's hands grabbing for him. Suddenly everything was still and he could feel the snow falling away from him as Constance dug him out. His head was pounding and he gasped for air.

Constance dug at the snow frantically. She had seen Ezra's head hit the door frame and knew he was in trouble. What else could go wrong? At least the roof of the little cabin must be strong if all that snow had been up there. She found herself relieved that much of it was gone now, but not that it had all landed on Ezra. She got him uncovered and helped him sit up. His temple was bleeding pretty heavily, but he was conscious. "Ezra? Are you all right?" She wiped at the blood and stroked his hair.

"Momentarily I will be fine.....I just need to catch......my breath." He put his hand to his head and felt the blood and lump that was forming. Ezra took Constance's hand and held it. She had now saved his life. "Thank you Darlin. I believe we are now even." He tried to get up, but a wave of dizziness washed over him.

"Take it slow Ezra. I think you have a mild concussion." She helped Ezra to stand as best she could and they went into the homestead. She closed the door and guided him to the cot. Now it was her turn to remove his wet clothes. She only removed his jacket, vest, and shirt. She examined him for any additional injures. There was a cut on his arm from a piece of wood that had broken off and fallen with the snow. She cleaned the wound on his arm and head. She then put the shirt she had been wearing earlier around him. It was obvious that he was still somewhat disoriented. She knew that the incident had scared him too and she wanted to help him relax. "Lay down Ezra. You need to get some rest. I know you didn't get much sleep last night and now this."

"I'm fine, really." He tried to resist her, but he couldn't. When he couldn't breath because of all the snow in his mouth, it had really scared him and his head was pounding. He gave in and laid down on the cot closing his eyes as Constance gently massaged his shoulders. It felt wonderful and he was asleep in a matter of moments.

"Sleep well Ezra." She kissed him on the cheek and put the blanket over him. She was still amazed at how very handsome he was. Now she would take care of him for a while. She knew that he would be fine in the morning. He might have a nasty headache, but otherwise he would be fine. The feelings she had been trying to ignore had come flooding back when she saw him without his shirt on. His clothing hid the strong, muscular body that lay beneath and she wondered how someone that obviously didn't do much physical labor could be so well muscled. She was embarrassed by these thoughts. She hadn't had thoughts like that about a man since her husband and now she was having them about a man she barely knew. She left Ezra to sleep and went to the stove. She was hungry and needed to add more wood to the fire.

Ezra woke several hours later. His head still hurt and he ached all over from struggling with the heavy snow. He could hear Constance humming a Christmas song and he looked around for her. She was sitting in the chair and caressing her stomach. He could see that she seemed relaxed and happy. Her beauty took his breath away. The soft light from the stove gave her face a glow that made her look like an angel. He wanted to get up, wanted to go talk to her and be near her, but he was too tired. He slowly drifted back to sleep. His eyes never left her as they drifted shut. Somehow he knew it was fate or destiny that brought them together. Perhaps it was just the magic of Christmas. He'd never been a strong believer in that magic until recently. His new life in Four Corners had changed that. Now he believed anything could happen.

As Constance sat in front of the stove keeping warm, her eyes moved about the small room. Her gaze landed on Ezra's gun lying on the floor by the door. He had not bothered to pick it up. She stood up with great effort and moved to where the gun lay. Carefully kneeling down she picked up the gun and stood back up. She was amazed at how heavy it felt in her hand and she knew it was a tool of death. She began to wonder what Ezra was like, really like. He was obviously a southern gentleman, but what else? His attire would lead her to believe he was a gambler. That would explain why he needed a gun. Most men had guns in the west because it was a dangerous place. She sat back down in the chair and held Ezra's gun in her lap. She glanced at the man sleeping on the cot and wondered how many men he had killed. She knew he was a good man, deep down he was good. She also thought that anyone who got on his bad side would be in serious trouble. She'd seen how muscular he was and knew he could handle himself in a fight.

When Ezra woke again it was late afternoon. The sun was beginning to descend below the horizon. The snow was still falling, but not as heavily and the wind had died down. Back in Four Corners, the townsfolk were digging out and six very worried men were getting ready to start searching for their missing seventh member. They knew Ezra had to have been caught in the storm and they hoped he'd found shelter. As for Ezra, he was feeling much better. The fear and panic he'd felt when the snow threatened to suffocate him was gone. His head and muscles still ached some. He slowly sat up and began to scan the room with his green eyes. Constance was at the stove and appeared to be fixing something to eat. "Good afternoon, Mrs. Phillips."

"Ezra, how are you feeling?" Constance turned and looked at Ezra when she heard him speak. The sound of his voice had startled her at first. It had been so quiet in the small homestead that his voice had almost seemed like a shout.

"Much better, thank you. Is that dinner you're fixing?" Ezra smiled. Constance looked happy and he was relieved to see she was all right.

"Yes. I hope you're hungry." She knew beans and biscuits were not a very good meal. Ezra must be tired of them by now.

"Actually I am a little hungry." Ezra stood slowly. He wanted to be sure that he would be steady on his feet before moving. He felt a little dizziness, but it wasn't bad.

"Careful, Ezra. You hit your head pretty hard." Constance moved over to steady him by putting her hand on his arm.

"Have no fear Darlin. My head is quite hard." Ezra smiled at Constance. When she touched his arm it had sent a tingle through him and he found himself not wanting her to let go. No woman's touch had ever done that to him before. He'd enjoyed the company of his share of ladies. Certainly not as many as Mr. Wilmington, but no woman had made him feel the way Constance did. He looked into her hazel eyes and thought he saw affection in them. Could she possibly feel the same way? It was like they were drawn to each other like magnets.

Looking into Ezra's incredible green eyes, Constance couldn't help wanting to kiss him. It was so strange. The attraction she felt for him was different from anything she'd ever felt. Including the feelings she'd had for her late husband. His face was so close to hers and she could feel his warm breath on her cheek. She could not remove her eyes from his and could not prevent her face from moving closer to his. Ezra's hands were suddenly on her arms and she closed her eyes as she felt him pull her closer to him and his lips touched hers. A spark shot through her and it was like nothing she'd felt before.

Ezra pulled Constance closer as he kissed her more deeply. The spark he'd felt when their lips came together was amazing. She felt so good in his arms and he wanted to hold her forever. Her lips were so warm and soft and Ezra reveled in the strong feelings that surged through him. He knew he was falling in love with this beautiful mother-to-be, but he hardly knew her. There was definitely something magical about their being brought together. He needed her as much as she needed him. He longed for someone to love and to have someone love him. Constance could give him that and he had no doubts about that. She needed someone to be a father for her baby and she needed someone to love. Out in the middle of the desert, trapped in a small homestead by a snowstorm, it seemed like the perfect match. And tomorrow was Christmas Eve. Ezra had no doubt that some kind of Christmas magic was happening in that small homestead.

Constance brought her hands to Ezra's sides. She could feel his warmth through the shirt and it caused the feelings inside her to grow even stronger. His kiss was taking her breath away and she never wanted it to end. She sighed softly at the love and warmth she felt from Ezra. His strong hands holding her arms and his amazing mouth kissing her like she'd never been kissed. She had kissed her late husband many times and it had been wonderful, but it was nothing like Ezra's kiss. Constance felt as if she'd been given a gift by having Ezra come into her life. He was giving her things that she needed and she was grateful to whatever higher power had seen fit to bring this precious gift to her.

Ezra suddenly broke the kiss and turned away from Constance. "I am ever so sorry. That was most un-gentleman like." He was embarrassed. He'd let his feelings take over and now he had done something he couldn't take back.

"Ezra. Please don't be sorry. It was wonderful and I enjoyed it very much. I suddenly have feelings inside me that I have never had before and they are because of you." She reached out and touched his arm again. She wanted him to turn back around so he could see she meant what she said.

"How can this be happening? We barely know each other and I don't know what to do. I too have feelings inside that are stronger than any I have ever had and it's a little frightening. I am not used to having strong emotions, especially for someone I barely know." He slowly turned back around. He was afraid of what would happen if he looked into those beautiful hazel eyes of hers again.

"I know Ezra, but somehow it just feels right. It feels magical and I don't believe we should fight these feelings." She took Ezra's hands in hers and held them tight, pulling him closer to her. She let go of his hands and brought hers to his face. Her thumbs caressed his cheeks as she held his face in her hands and looked deeply into his emerald orbs. Never before had she seen such incredible green eyes and they were indeed the windows to his soul. "I'm falling in love with you Ezra and I am not going to deny it."

"Mrs. Phillips. I am falling in love with you too. It's just that these feelings are so new to me and I am a bit overwhelmed." He could not take his eyes off her beautiful face. He had the strangest feeling in his heart and was unsure how best to deal with it. He had felt love before, but this was more, so much more.

"Ezra, will you please call me Constance or Connie." Her voice was soft as she became lost in his eyes. She would never imagine being in this situation and feeling these feelings as short a time ago as yesterday. Here she was now though, in this small homestead in the middle of nowhere having the strongest feelings for a man that she ever had. She felt Ezra's arms move around her and he pulled her as close to him as he could with her ample belly between them. She knew he was going to kiss her again.

"Constance. I........" Ezra leaned forward and kissed Constance again. Letting his mouth taste her and moaning softly as their tongues explored each other. 'Oh lord what did I do to deserve this beautiful creature and the love she seems eager to give me?' His thoughts drifted away as they continued to kiss in the middle of the room. All he could do was feel and for the first time in his life he let himself feel everything. He let his emotions go and reveled in the glorious feelings they invoked. He began to wonder if hiding his emotions all his life had been a mistake. If letting his emotions go always felt like this then he would never hide them again.

Constance felt weak in the knees. The love and tenderness of Ezra's kiss and embrace was overwhelming. If she wasn't about to have her baby in a matter of weeks, maybe even days, she would be asking Ezra to make love to her. This could not go on much longer or she would be asking him anyway and she knew at this stage of her pregnancy she should not be considering the idea. She had obtained as much information on pregnancy and giving birth from her doctor as she could get. After Vincent died she knew that she would need to know as much as possible. The idea of going into labor alone had haunted her dreams for many nights.

Ezra broke their embrace, as he smelled burning beans. He looked to the stove to see the can of beans sitting on top. He moved quickly and removed the can, but not without burning his hand. Those beans were all they had to eat and he didn't know how long it would be until they could get out of there. He put the can down on the table quickly, but the damage was done. His hand and fingers were burned. So far there were no blisters and he was glad. He jumped slightly when Constance took his burned hand in hers. He watched as she examined it and touched certain areas carefully. His hand was hurting terribly, but it didn't prevent that same tingle in him at Constance's touch.

"Oh Ezra. This is pretty bad. I am going to get some snow from outside and put on it." She kissed his hand gently and let go of it. She moved quickly to the door and opened it. Both of them had been so lost in each other that they hadn't even realized that the snow had stopped. Constance looked at the sky. It was still a dark gray and she knew that the snow was probably not finished. She carefully knelt down and gathered a handful of snow. She knew it wouldn't last long and she would need to get more. She moved back inside and gave the snow to Ezra. "Put this on your hand Ezra. I am going to find a pan or bucket to put more snow in. That little bit won't be enough."

"Constance, it's not that bad. Please don't strain yourself." Ezra tried to stop her, but she would have nothing of it. She was as stubborn as he was. He had to admit that the snow in his hand was making it feel better.

"Ezra, I am not straining myself. This will just take a moment." Constance found a bucket in the far corner of the room and picked it up. It would hold enough snow for her to get the worst of the heat out of the burn. Constance scooped the bucket into the snow and filled the bucket. It was cold out so she went back inside quickly and closed the door. She noticed Ezra watching her and he had a gentle smile on his face. "What?"

"Oh nothing. You just look so beautiful and graceful. Even in your condition." Ezra was almost shocked at the way he could be so completely honest with her. It was so easy to tell her what he was thinking or feeling. He'd never felt that way with anyone before and he found that he really liked it.

Constance blushed. She felt like a fat cow and here Ezra was telling her he thought she looked beautiful and graceful. "Please Ezra. I'm a fat cow. How can you say that?" She sat down next to him and took his burned hand. Gently she rubbed some of the snow on it and heard him sigh. She could tell it was making him feel better.

"Because it's the truth Darlin. You are a beautiful woman and you are not fat. You are with child and that makes you even more beautiful." Her touch on his hand felt so good and seeing her blush from his compliment touched him. She was such an amazing woman and he thanked God that she had come into his life. He reached up with his good hand and caressed her cheek. He wanted to show her how much he was falling in love with her. He was sure she knew after those kisses they had shared, but he still felt like it wasn't enough. "There is no doubt that I am falling in love with you Constance. I hope you will consider staying with me in Four Corners when we get out of this."

"Oh, Ezra. I would love that, but I just don't know. It's a very big decision and I don't know if I am ready to make it. Even though I must admit that I don't know that I want to be without you in my life." Constance wanted to say yes to Ezra more than anything, but she was afraid of taking such a big step. Especially right now when she was about to have her baby. It would be a huge responsibility for Ezra to help her raise her child and she wasn't sure he fully realized what it would entail.

"All I ask is that you think about it. I know I could be a good father for your baby. I love children and they seem to like me. To be honest I have always wanted a child and just because I am not the true father of your baby, doesn't mean I wouldn't love it like it was my own." He knew he would love her baby and in time perhaps they would have a child together. He had never felt more certain in his life that he wanted to spend the rest of his life with this woman. She had captured his heart and soul and there was no going back now.

"Ezra. I know you would be a great father, but things seem to be moving so fast. I know how I feel about you and I have no doubts about it. However I don't know if I am ready for all of this yet." She would go with Ezra to Four Corners when they could get out of the homestead and through the deep snow, but she would wait and see how things went from there. She could not make a decision now. She leaned over and kissed him gently.

"I understand Constance and the last thing I want to do is pressure you in any way." Ezra kissed her gently. He put his hand on her belly and felt the baby kicking again. The baby was very active and Ezra wondered just how much time they had until she went into labor. Once all the snow in the bucket was gone and Ezra's hand was feeling better, he and Constance shared some dinner and she lay down to get some sleep. It was late evening now and dark outside. He would try to sleep in the chair, but his need to be sure the fire in the stove kept burning would prevent him from getting much sleep. He would not admit it, but his hand still hurt quite a bit too.

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Ezra's six friends were searching for him. They had left when the sun came up and had been searching all day. The sky was still a dark gray and they had a feeling the snow was not gone. As soon as it began to grow dark again, they searched for shelter of some sort. Vin had managed to find a cave and all of them were now settling in for the night. The longer they searched the more worried they became. They would ride all the way to Bitter Creek looking for him if they had to. "You as worried about him as I am pard?" Buck asked Chris quietly.

"Yeah Buck. If he didn't find shelter from that storm then he very well might be frozen to death right now." That had been Chris's biggest fear. No one could survive that storm out in the open. Their own progress had been slow with the snow so deep. At least they knew Ezra had to be between Four Corners and Bitter Creek.

Vin listened to them talking. He knew the odds of Ezra surviving the storm without shelter were slim. He knew their search should not be too hard. As stubborn as Ezra could be most of the time, Vin knew that traveling alone, Ezra would stick to the main trail. He held his hands up in front of the small fire they made in the cave. It was cold and he could see the others were all having trouble keeping warm as well. "Ezra's too stubborn to die on us." He added quietly.

Chris and Buck looked at Vin. He'd been so quiet up to this point that they'd almost forgotten he was there. Nathan was seated on the other side of the fire with Josiah and JD. Chris looked at all their faces and could see the worry written on them. "He is stubborn and seems to survive anything thrown at him, but I don't know about this time." Chris knew how cold it had to have gotten out there the night before and if Ezra was wet too, he didn't stand a chance.

"We haven't lost anyone yet Chris and we aren't going to lose one now, not like this." Josiah added. He silently prayed that Ezra was alive. That he had found shelter and was just waiting for the storm to let up.

"We all know how Ezra's always beating the odds." JD added. He had been very worried and it was he that convinced the others that they needed to start searching for Ezra. When he didn't arrive back in Four Corners the day before and the storm was raging around them, JD just knew Ezra was in trouble.

"Yeah kid. But, there are some odds that even Ezra can't beat." Buck shook his head. The gambler did have a way of always coming out on the winning side, but Buck didn't know if that would happen this time.

"Lets all get some sleep. We have another long day ahead of us tomorrow." Chris was tired and he could see the others were. He wanted to get an early start tomorrow and hoped the snow didn't start again. He watched as the others murmured their goodnights and settled into their bedrolls. He leaned back against the side of the cave and closed his eyes. 'Dammit Ezra, how do you always get into these messes?' Chris silently asked. The snow began again as they slept and they would not be going anywhere that next day. They would have to wait it out in the cave until the snow stopped again.

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Ezra had fallen asleep in the chair. Fortunately he had gotten the fire in the stove burning hot before he fell asleep. He dreamed of that day's events. The way he had felt when he was holding and kissing Constance. It had all seemed like a dream, but he knew it wasn't. He knew he had a chance to have a family. Something he'd wanted all his life and he wasn't going to do anything to ruin it.

Constance had wakened in the middle of the night. She had a sharp pain in her stomach and had a bad feeling she was starting to go into labor. According to the information she'd gotten from her doctor, she was in the first stages of labor. She noticed Ezra asleep in the chair and did not want to wake him until it became necessary. It could be many hours yet before she actually started to deliver. The pains seemed to be pretty far apart and she managed to breathe through them. If she could just make it until morning, she would have Ezra help her. She had worried as to whether she would make it until after they could get to Four Corners, now she knew. She just hoped that Ezra would be able to deliver her baby. He couldn't know much about it and that had her scared. She knew Ezra would do everything he could and if the baby or she didn't survive, then it was meant to be. Somehow though she was certain that Ezra was sent to her not only to love her, but also to deliver her baby for her. She drifted back to sleep, hoping to get as much sleep as she could until the next pain came.

Ezra woke to the sound of a moan. It was a moan of pain and it took him a moment to get his bearings. The first rays of light began to come in through the window as the sun came up. The sky was still full of dark clouds and it was snowing steadily again. Ezra sat up straight in the chair and looked to the cot. The minute his eyes landed on Constance's face, he knew something was wrong. There was pain etched on her beautiful face and he began to panic. He quickly rose and moved to her, "Constance, is something wrong Darlin?'

"Not yet. I am in the early stages of labor Ezra. I would say from the length of time between my contractions that we still have a while yet before I deliver." Constance relaxed as the pain subsided. Currently the contractions lasted about 20 seconds and they were coming about 45 minutes apart. At that rate she would not give birth until sometime that night or in the morning.

"Good Lord Darlin. What can I do to help?" He took Constance's hand and held it. He didn't have any idea what to do for her. He knew that all he could do right now was try to make her comfortable.

"Nothing Ezra. Until I am ready to deliver there isn't much you can do. I would like to get out of some of these clothes though. I would be much more comfortable."

"Certainly Darlin. You get out of those clothes and I'll get one of my shirts for you. You'll be much more comfortable in that." Ezra tried to remain calm on the outside. He didn't think it would help Constance to see how nervous he was. Nervous hell, he was terrified. He didn't know much about delivering a baby. He would do whatever it took to help her and he would do his best to deliver her baby. He moved away from the cot to retrieve one of his shirts. Constance was removing her clothes under the blanket and took the shirt from him when he returned with it.

"Thank you Ezra. I can't tell you how having you here makes me feel safe and secure. Knowing you're here and that I am not going through this alone has eased a lot of my fears." She was still afraid of what the day held. Ezra wasn't a doctor and he wouldn't know what to do when the time came. She was afraid something would go wrong and she would lose the baby. In that event, she didn't want Ezra to live with the guilt that came with that.

"I don't know what good I'll be to you, but I will do what I can." Ezra sat on the edge of the cot and caressed Constance's cheek. He hated the thought of her having her baby in this run down, drafty old homestead. There wasn't much choice in the matter now and he would do what he could to make it easier for her.

"I know Ezra. Thank you." Constance reached up and took the hand that had been caressing her cheek. She kissed his fingers and looked up into his amazing eyes. She was so glad he was here and she was also glad that he felt about her, the way she felt about him. She closed her eyes as Ezra leaned down and kissed her. It felt so wonderful and for a few moments she forgot all of her fears and worries. "I love you Ezra. I have no doubts about that now."

"Constance. I have no doubts about my feelings either. Now I am going to fix you something to eat. You need to keep your strength up." Ezra rose from the cot and moved towards the stove. The fire was low and he needed to add a few pieces of wood to get it hot again.

"Just some biscuits Ezra. No beans please." Her stomach wasn't feeling all that good and she didn't think she could handle anything but a couple of biscuits.

"Whatever you want Darlin." Ezra turned and smiled at Constance. She appeared to be comfortable and free of pain at the moment. He knew it wouldn't last though. He got the stove going and heated some biscuits. Giving two of them to Constance. He was getting very concerned for several reasons. One, they were almost out of food. Two, they were almost out of wood. And three, Constance was in labor. While Constance ate her biscuits he went outside with the bucket and filled it with snow. He was going to heat it on the stove so that he could wash his hands good before he helped Constance deliver her baby. He also wanted to see if he could find more wood. He needed to keep the cabin warm. Once her baby was born, it would need to be kept warm.

While Ezra was outside, Constance had another contraction. She put her hands on her belly and bit her lower lip against the pain. She wanted it over with. She wanted the pain to be gone and the fear over whether she could deliver her baby successfully there in that small homestead. "God please let this turn out okay." She whispered. She suddenly wanted Ezra back inside. Wanted him at her side and holding her hand.

Ezra had become desperate to find more wood. He decided to break some boards off the stable out back. It also gave him a chance to check on Chaucer and Constance's horse. They seemed fine and there was still plenty of hay in the stable. Right now the two horses had more food than he and Constance did. He would save every scrap of food he had for Constance. He could afford to go hungry for a day or two, Constance couldn't. He struggled with the boards; his hand was still hurting from the burns on it. He managed to break several boards off and broke them into smaller pieces. He felt that he had enough wood now to last for several more days.

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Chris and the others stayed in the cave. There was no point in leaving the shelter of the cave as long as it was snowing. Chris didn't think it made much difference when they found Ezra. If he had found shelter then he would be fine for a while. If he hadn't found shelter than he was probably already dead. He would not risk any more of his men. They would wait in the cave until the snow stopped. They all took turns going out to find wood and they had plenty of food with them to last a while. Chris still felt bad about the fact that they were all sitting there. Ezra was out there somewhere, hopefully alive and they couldn't do anything.

"It's not your fault Chris. This damn storm just won't go away." Buck glanced out through the opening of the cave. It was still snowing and at this rate they might never find Ezra. The thought of Ezra being out there in that snow and all alone made him feel sad. He hoped that Ezra had found shelter. He couldn't imagine their little group without the debonair gambler in it. He had his faults as did all of them, but his quick wit and sharp sense of humor were valuable assets to the group. Although he hated being out here at Christmas, instead of back in Four Corners, celebrating with the rest of the town. What he hated more was thinking of Ezra out there all alone for Christmas. He didn't know much about Ezra's past, but he had a feeling that Ezra had spent far too many Christmas's alone and hoped to change that this year.

"I know Buck, but it doesn't change the fact that he's out there all alone and possibly freezing to death. If he's even still alive." Chris ran his hand through his blond hair. He hated being frustrated like this. He hated more than anything to be useless.

"You gotta believe he's still alive Chris. Ezra would do whatever he had to in order to survive. He's a survivor." Nathan hoped Ezra was still alive too. He'd had plenty of arguments with the stubborn gambler. He could be so selfish sometimes and it made Nathan angry. He had to admit though that he had no right to call Ezra prejudiced. He himself had shown prejudice towards the southerner, just because he was a southerner and a gambler and that had been wrong too.

"Well, it's Christmas eve. Perhaps there will be a miracle." Josiah was praying for a Christmas miracle. His heart ached at the thought of Ezra out there alone at Christmas. He knew from some of his talks with the gambler that he had spent most of his life alone and it was especially lonely at Christmas. Josiah had been determined to make it different this year. He'd even gotten Ezra a gift and made sure he would come to the town Christmas party. Now none of that mattered. Now they would just be grateful to find Ezra alive.

"I sure hope so Josiah." Buck whispered. It had been a long night and morning and several of the others had fallen asleep. He wouldn't mind a little shuteye either, but someone had to watch the fire. He settled back against the wall of the cave and stared out at the falling snow. 'Lord, please let Ezra be alive.'

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Ezra came through the door into the homestead. As soon as he saw Constance's face he dropped the wood and moved over to her. It was apparent that she was in pain and he wanted to do what he could to help. "Constance, are you having another contraction?"

"Yes, Ezra. It will pass in a moment." Constance was getting tired of the contractions. It was frustrating. She knew she still had quite some time until she would actually start to give birth. The contractions were still too far apart and her water hadn't even broken yet. She felt Ezra take her hand and she squeezed it tightly until the pain passed. She relaxed and laid back on the cot. She took several deep breaths and released some of her tight grip on Ezra's hand.

"Are you all right?" Ezra picked up the towel and wiped her face and forehead. She had the sheen of sweat on her skin from the pain. He held her hand and kissed her cheek.

"I am all right Ezra. I just wish this baby would come a little quicker." She knew that her labor could last for a long time. She'd known a few women who had been in labor for days. She was fairly certain she wouldn't be in labor that long. The contractions were getting a little closer together each time. She again felt the relief of having Ezra there and not having to have the baby alone. She wouldn't have been able to do that; at least she didn't think so. She knew a lot, including what to do once the baby was born. Cutting the umbilical cord, cleaning the baby's mouth and nose and making sure it was breathing. She knew all of that, but doing it by herself seemed so unbelievable.

"Just tell me what I can do to help Darlin." Ezra put the towel down and caressed Constance's cheek. He could tell she was tired and wanted to try to get her to go to sleep for a while. "You get some sleep and I will be here for you when the pain comes again." He leaned down and kissed her gently.

"Thank you Ezra. You're my savior." Constance closed her eyes and with the help of Ezra's gentle caress of her cheek, was quickly asleep.

"That's highly unlikely Darlin." If she really knew him she would not think that. He began to wonder if she would still have any interest in him at all after all this was over. She hadn't seen his gambling or conning. She didn't know he was a selfish, greedy man. He rose from the cot and moved back to the chair by the stove. He noticed his gun on the table and realized he'd never picked it up after Constance's arrival. He realized that she must have picked it up off the floor. He did not deserve her. She deserved far better than him, but he couldn't let her go. That just made him realize how selfish he was.

As each hour passed Constance began having more and more contractions. She became even more tired and just wished it would all get over with. The fear was building up inside her too. She had looked out the window often and the snow was still coming down. Even if Ezra was able to deliver her baby, would they be able to get out of there alive? She knew that the wood was almost gone and that Ezra didn't have much food. She also knew he was saving all of it for her. She didn't let on, not wanting to embarrass him. "Ohhhh.....Ezra. Please make.....this pain.......go away." She squeezed his hand tight as the next contraction struck her. They were lasting longer now and there was less time between them. Her water had broken a short time ago and she knew it wouldn't be long now.

"Shhhh Darlin. I would give anything to endure the pain for you." Ezra squeezed her hand and kissed her gently. He hoped this baby came soon. His fear and worry over its arrival was mounting and he wouldn't be able to take it much longer. It was starting to get dark outside as the afternoon waned into evening. He had taken two of the blankets from the floor and put them under Constance for comfort. He saved the third to wrap the baby in once it was born. He also had a pan of warm water on the stove that he would use to wash up and clean the baby. Ezra had given Constance some beans and a biscuit earlier. She hadn't really wanted it, but he insisted. She needed to keep her strength up for when it came time for her to deliver.

"Ezra, promise me something. If I die, please take care of my baby for me." Constance wanted to be sure that someone would take care of her baby if she died during the delivery. She'd heard of plenty of those situations.

"Now Darlin. Don't talk like that. Nothing is going to happen to you, I won't let it." Ezra stroked her hair and tried to comfort her. He knew she was scared and in pain. He just wished the baby would come and they could all relax.

"I have to Ezra. Please promise me?" She needed to hear him say he would take care of the baby.

"I promise." Ezra almost couldn't believe this was happening. It was just a short time ago that he had been longing for a family. A wife and child, or children, to love. Now he was about to have that. If all went well.

"Thank you Ezra." Constance closed her eyes and drifted to sleep. It wouldn't last long. As soon as the next contraction hit she would be wide-awake again.

"You're welcome Darlin. You rest now." He kissed her forehead. It felt like she had a slight fever, but he figured that was normal at this time. He moved away from the cot and checked the water on the stove. He wanted it warm enough to wash his hands, but not so warm that it would harm the newborn baby's delicate skin.

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"Merry Christmas Chris." Buck said. It was Christmas Eve and just a few hours from Christmas day. He hated the fact that they were out there in a cave instead of back in town. He had hoped to be in the arms of one of the saloon girls for Christmas, but no. He knew what he was going to do tomorrow, snowstorm or no snowstorm. He would go looking for, and find Ezra tomorrow. Come hell or high water. He would not let everyone's Christmas be ruined.

"Merry Christmas Buck. I don't know how merry it really is though." Chris was beginning to resign himself to the fact that Ezra was dead. Even if they did find him tomorrow, he somehow felt that all they would find was his frozen body. It made him so very sad to think that Ezra had to die at Christmas.

"Hey Buck. What do you want for Christmas?" JD asked. He hoped to change the subject and lighten the mood. He had no idea that Buck's response would be what it was. He figured Buck would wish for a voluptuous woman.

"All I want for Christmas kid is to find Ezra alive." It was not what he had originally wanted for Christmas, but now it was all he wanted. The thought of Ezra never being around again made his heart ache. He could always have an intelligent and lighthearted conversation with Ezra and he enjoyed it very much.

"Yeah, me too Buck. Think we will find him? It's been a couple days now." JD remembered the day he went to the others and told them they needed to go looking for Ezra. He'd had a bad feeling all day. When Ezra didn't come back and the heavy snow started, he knew something was wrong. He looked out the opening of the cave, but couldn't see much. It was dark out now and he pulled his jacket closer around him as a cold breeze blew into the cave.

"We'll find him kid, one way or another." Buck tossed another piece of wood on the fire. He'd seen JD pull his jacket around him. He hoped they found Ezra alive and well. He didn't think any of them could handle a tragic Christmas, especially JD. JD was too young to have his Christmas's be sad from now on.

"Lets all get some sleep." Chris knew tomorrow was Christmas day and all he could think about was a Christmas miracle. It's what they all needed, they all wanted. Chris pulled his blanket around him and closed his eyes. 'God give us a miracle.' He silently prayed.

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As it grew dark and cold outside, Constance's contractions were much closer together and lasting longer. She got through them the best she could, holding Ezra's hand tight. She was so grateful he was there. She would not be getting through this without him. She knew finding him there in that homestead had been a gift from God. What was the chance that someone else would be out there like that? Slim she was sure and it made her positive that it was meant to be. "Ezra, this is going to be a bit uncomfortable for you, but I need you to look and see how much I am dilated."

"I'm afraid I don't follow." Ezra had a feeling he knew what she meant, but he didn't want to look. He knew he would have to eventually, especially when the baby started to come.

"Ezra, you have to look and see how much I have dilated. How far the space has gotten for when the baby is ready to come. It's usually measured in inches. I know it's uncomfortable, but you know what I mean." She felt for Ezra, but this was no time for modesty.

"Yes Darlin I do." He lifted the blanket and checked. She seemed to be dilated about four inches. He wondered how much more she needed to be dilated before the baby started to come. "It looks like about four inches."

"Okay, it's getting close to time then." She could see the blush of embarrassment on Ezra's face. It really was very sweet, but he was going to have to get over it. "Ezra, are you going to be able to help me?"

"Yes Constance. I know this is no time for modesty." He put the blanket back down and looked into her pain filled eyes. He chastised himself for being so wrapped up in his feelings. She was in pain and about to give birth and he was worried about his embarrassment? He was ashamed of himself. He moved away and checked the water again, making sure it wasn't too warm. Ezra then did something he hadn't done since arriving at the homestead. He retrieved his flask from his jacket pocket and took a long swig. He wanted to have something to calm his nerves and stop his shaking hands.

"Are you all right Ezra?" Constance had watched Ezra and saw him take a long draw from his flask. She knew he must be nervous and scared. After all, her life as well as her baby's life, was in his hands. She believed in him, even if he didn't believe in himself. He would come through for her. She just knew it.

"I will be Darlin, don't worry." Ezra took another swig. The heat of the whiskey felt soothing and relaxing and he began to think that he just might be able to do this. He moved to the window and looked out at the dark landscape. He couldn't remember a night so dark before and he wished for the light of the moon. He could see that the snow had finally stopped again. He knew that there would be a third body in the homestead by the time he saw the light of day again.

"Are you sure? Ezra I want you to come over here." She knew her contractions meant that her baby would be coming soon and she needed to know that Ezra was ready for this.

"All right Darlin. I will be right there." He glanced back out the window. Just at that moment a star shown through the clouds. It was brighter than any star he'd ever seen and it sent a surge of confidence through him. Ezra had never believed much in God, but right now he just knew that the star was a sign from God that everything would work out fine. He heard Constance's cry of pain and knew it was time. He would have to deliver her baby now and he knew he could do it. 'Thank you lord.'

"Ezra it's time. I have to push." She grabbed the sides of the cot tightly in her hands and began to push. The pain was tremendous and she already felt so tired. She watched as Ezra washed his hand and dried them, and then positioned himself at the end of the cot.

"Okay Darlin. You do what you must, I will be here to help." Ezra still didn't know what to do, but he suddenly felt like that didn't matter. He lifted the blanket and was almost shocked to see the very top of the baby's head sticking out. "All right Darlin. I see the head. Push when you feel you need to."

"Ezra.... God it hurts."

"I know Darlin. Just a little longer now." He took a moment between her contractions to check his watch. It was just past midnight. This would be a Christmas baby. "Merry Christmas Constance. You're going to have a Christmas baby." He smiled at her and gently caressed her legs. He wanted to do anything he could to soothe her and make her comfortable.

"That's wonderful Ezra. You are truly a gift from God." She cried out then as the next contraction hit and she pushed again. Her hands grasped the sides of the cot tightly and she could feel Ezra working to help release the baby from inside her.

"Keep pushing Darlin. I can see its shoulders." Ezra was quite amazed. He couldn't believe he was helping to bring a new life into the world. Childbirth was indeed a miracle of God.

"Oh Ezra........it hurts." She was grasping the sides of the cot so tightly she was afraid her fingers would break. She'd never felt so much pain in her life and right at that moment, she never wanted to have another child again.

"I know Darlin." Ezra wanted more than anything to take her pain away. He knew once the baby was born her pain would be gone. He gently pulled as she pushed. He could see the umbilical cord and he panicked when he saw it wrapped around the baby's neck. Luckily it wasn't wrapped tightly and he quickly removed it from around the baby's neck. "All right Darlin, one more push and it will be out."

"God I hope so." Constance cried out and squeezed the cot again. She pushed hard as the sweat covered her body and she felt so very weak. Finally she relaxed as it all ended. The baby was out and she could relax. Her hands let go of the cot and moved to her aching abdomen. She never wanted to do that again.

"Oh Constance. He is a beautiful baby." Ezra held the messy baby in his soft hands. He was indeed a miracle and so beautiful. He felt such emotion come over him like he'd never felt before and this baby wasn't even his. Now he wanted a baby of his own more than anything.

"He? It's a boy?" She was so happy it was a boy. Constance intended to name him Vincent, after her late husband.

"Yes Darlin. What should I do now?" He wasn't sure what to do. He knew that something needed to be done with the umbilical cord, but what he didn't know.

"Ezra.... you have to cut the cord." Constance was so weak and just wanted to sleep, but she knew there were a few things left to do. She also wanted to see her baby.

"All right." Ezra took out his knife and cut the cord. "I've got that done. Let me wash the baby up and then I will give him to you." Ezra was amazed at the baby's blue eyes. Constance's husband must have had blue eyes. He gently carried the baby over to the table and laid him down. He brought the pan of warm water over and began to clean him off using the towel.

"Make sure you clean out his nose and mouth. Make sure he's breathing." Constance hadn't heard the baby cry yet and that had her worried. She smiled when she finally heard him begin to cry from the table.

"There we go little guy." Ezra finished cleaning him and wrapped him in a blanket. He moved over to the cot and sat on the edge. He carefully placed the baby in Constance's weak arms. "I present your son Darlin." Ezra leaned down and kissed her gently. He could see she was very tired and needed some sleep. He wanted to be sure she saw her baby before she fell asleep.

"Thank you Ezra. I can't tell you how much it meant to have you here. I love you." Constance closed her eyes. She was so weak and tired. She barely felt Ezra remove the baby from her arms before she was deeply asleep. She didn't feel him remove the soiled blanket from under her. She also didn't feel him lower her legs back down and make sure she was covered up. If she had been awake, she would have been so deeply touched by what she saw. Ezra sat in the chair by the fire and held the baby in his arms, rocking it gently as it slept in his embrace. He would be a wonderful father.

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The morning brought cold air and blue skies. The storm had passed and as the sun rose into the sky, it's light reflected on the white snow and caused a blinding light. Vin was already up and scanning the horizon for any sign of the elusive gambler. He didn't see anything, but he had a strange feeling in his heart that Ezra was alive and that they would find him today.

"See anything pard?" Buck asked as he stepped up next to Vin. He watched Vin lower his eyeglass and saw the worried look on his face.

"No, but I have this feeling that he's out there and he's alive." Vin sighed. He couldn't wait to get moving and begin the search for Ezra again. He had a feeling that Ezra wasn't far away from where they were now.

"Me too Vin. Lets get some breakfast going so we can get out of here." Buck looked out through the opening of the cave for a moment, and then turned to begin making coffee.

"Sounds good, I am hungry." Vin turned and followed Buck back into the cave. He turned and looked back out of the opening once more. Deep in the pit of his stomach he knew Ezra was still alive.

They all ate in silence and when they finished they got their horses ready and began the search again. Somehow they all had renewed hope and felt almost certain they would find Ezra alive. The snow was deep and the horses struggled through it. They knew it was going to take time to cover very much ground. Little did they know they were only a few miles from the homestead that Ezra, Constance, and her new baby were hold up in.

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Constance slowly began to wake. She felt better but her body ached and she wondered how her baby was. She knew Ezra would take care of him and keep him warm, but she'd only gotten to see him for a few moments before she fell asleep. As her eyes fluttered open she could see sunlight coming in the window. Her hazel eyes scanned the room until they found Ezra. He was sitting in the chair by the stove and her baby was cradled in his arms. She smiled at the scene as she realized that Ezra was asleep. She didn't know how he was able to keep the baby cradled in his arms and sleep at the same time.

Ezra had tried to stay awake most of the night, but had finally succumbed to the sleep his body so desperately needed. He had made sure he had a good hold on the baby before he drifted off. He would be devastated if he dropped him while he slept. Ezra had been amazed by the strong feelings he had for this little life in his arms. The baby wasn't even his and he already felt a great deal of love for it. He wondered if that feeling had just been because he'd brought it into the world. He didn't think so. He held a gift in his arms, his Christmas gift and it was the best gift he could ever have received. Sometime during the night he fell asleep and dreamed. They were wonderful dreams and warmed his heart and soul. This Christmas was without a doubt, the best Christmas of his life.

Constance carefully got up from the cot. She still felt somewhat weak and sore, but she wanted to relieve Ezra of her baby. She wanted him to move to the cot and get some real rest. She would sit in the chair with her baby and breast-feed him. She knelt in front of the chair and looked at Ezra's handsome sleeping face. Constance reached up and gently caressed his face, attempting to wake him without startling him. "Ezra?'

Ezra felt Constance's hand on his face and her soft voice saying his name. He lifted his head and slowly opened his eyes, realizing he'd fallen asleep. "Constance? What time is it?"

"It's morning Ezra, I don't know the exact time." She gently took her baby from his arms and helped him stand. "You need to get some rest Ezra. Take the cot while I sit here and feed the baby."

"Thank you Darlin. I didn't realize how tired I was." Ezra kissed Constance gently. His hand caressed her cheek as he reveled in the taste of her. He gazed deeply into her hazel eyes and smiled. "I love you Constance and I love your baby."

"I love you too Ezra, now get some sleep." She watched him move to the cot and lay down. In a matter of moments he was asleep, his chest rising and falling gently as he breathed. Constance felt those same strong feelings well up inside of her and she knew that she loved Ezra very much. She sat down in the chair and really looked at her son for the first time. He was a beautiful baby and she felt her heart fill with a love that she had never felt before. She had been wrong before when she thought she didn't want any more babies. She definitely wanted more and she wanted them with Ezra. She unbuttoned her dress and allowed her son to feed on her milk. She closed her eyes and let the feelings inside her flow freely. There was nothing like these feelings and she wanted them to last forever. Holding her son and feeling the love she did for Ezra overwhelmed her.

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As each hour passed the six worried men grew closer to Ezra's location. They were having problems with the bright sunlight that was intensified by the white snow. It was nearly blinding and both JD and Nathan had seen things that weren't actually there. Their movements were a struggle as they moved through the deep snow. They had to rest the horses often and it was frustrating.

"Hold up Chris. Time to rest the horses again." Buck wanted to keep going, but he knew if they didn't keep the horses rested they could all be stuck out there with no shelter. It got cold at night and they would all freeze to death out in the open. If they didn't find Ezra soon they would have to being looking for shelter instead.

"Okay Buck." Chris savored the warm sun on his face, but the air was cold and crisp and sometimes it hurt to breathe. The crisp air would make him cough as it stabbed at his lungs. "How far have we come?"

"About three miles I think." Vin had been trying to keep track of how far they came. It wasn't easy with all the snow and the bright sun.

"That's all?" JD asked.

"Yes, I think so." Vin took out his eyeglass and began to scan the horizon. He had to squint from the brightness of the snow, but he thought he saw a small building a few miles away. "Chris, I think I see a small building about two miles from here. If we can make it there before dark, it will give us some shelter.

"Any chance Ezra is there?" Chris felt hope surge through him. If they found the building then it stood to reason that Ezra could have too.

"Maybe." Vin looked in the direction of the building again and this time saw the subtle hint of smoke rising from the pipe in the roof. "Yes."

"What?" Nathan asked.

"There is smoke coming from the pipe in the roof. I bet its Ezra." Vin replied. For the first time in days there was hope in his voice. The fact that someone was in the building filled him with hope. He knew it could just be the owner of the building, but something deep down told him otherwise.

"Lets get moving then." Chris also felt hope build inside him. Even if it wasn't Ezra they would at least have shelter for the night.

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Ezra slept deeply for several hours and woke feeling refreshed. He sat up on the cot and looked out the window. He could tell it was getting late and knew it would be at least another day before they could try to make their way to Four Corners. His eyes traveled around the room until they found Constance. She was sitting in the chair by the stove with the baby in her arms. He smiled at the vision. Constance looked so beautiful holding her son and Ezra just knew that was a sight he would be seeing often. "Constance? How are you feeling Darlin?" He swung his legs over the side of the cot and stood.

"Ezra, you're looking much better." She began to stand but Ezra came to her and took the baby so she could get up easier.

"I feel much better. How are you feeling?" He took the baby and laid him on the cot. The newborn needed a lot of sleep right now.

"I feel all right considering. I hope you don't mind Ezra but I had to use one of your shirts as a diaper. I have since washed it." She was so afraid he would be angry with her for using one of his obviously expensive shirts.

"That is quite all right Darlin. You keep it as long as you need it." He was somewhat sickened by the thought of the baby soiling his shirt, but he really didn't care. He pulled Constance to him and held her in his arms. It felt so good and he never wanted to let go of her. For several moments they just gazed into each other's eyes and became lost. Ezra slowly tilted his head down and kissed her gently. As he felt her hands caress his back he made the kiss deeper still and held her tighter. A sound from the baby made them end the kiss and Constance moved to check him.

"He's all right." She turned back to Ezra to find his at the stove fixing some beans and biscuits. She had to admit she was rather hungry.

"Have you decided on a name yet?" Ezra glanced at her and then returned his attention to the beans. The close proximity of his hands to the heat of the stove made his burned hand hurt some, but he would manage.

"Yes, I am naming him after my late husband, Vincent." She smiled and moved over to Ezra. She put her arms around his waist from behind and caressed his chest with her hands. She loved the feel of him in her arms. She knew as soon as it was possible, she would be making love to him.

"A very strong name and has lots of character." Ezra's hand went to hers and held it. Her touch felt so incredibly good and he didn't want her to stop. "These beans and biscuits are ready, I assume you are hungry." He turned around in her arms and kissed her again.

"Yes Ezra, I am very hungry actually." She kissed him back. She then took the towel and grabbed the hot can of beans off the stove, setting it on the table. She watched as Ezra picked up the warm biscuits and placed them on the table. She had not missed his wince of pain as he took hold of the biscuit with his burned hand. She knew it had to still be bothering him, but she hadn't thought it was that bad. How had he managed to deliver her baby last night if his hand still bothered him that much? "Ezra, your hand is still hurting you isn't it?"

"Just a little, nothing for you to worry about." Ezra filled a plate with the beans and biscuits and set it down on the table. "Come and eat, you need to keep your strength up."

"Ezra, you need to eat too." She sat down and took a fork full of the beans. Then she fed them to Ezra before taking another fork full and eating it herself.

"I assure you I am quite fine Darlin, but you need to keep your strength up for the baby." Ezra moved away from the table so she could not feed him any more of the food. It was all the food that was left and if they didn't try to make it back to Four Corners soon, they would all starve.

"Ezra, I know this is the last of the food and I insist you eat some of it." Constance knew he hadn't eaten in a couple of days and she was worried. She could see the bags under his eyes and his pale complexion. She jumped, as did Ezra, as there was a knock at the door.

"Stay back Constance, we don't know who it is." Ezra didn't have his derringer for this trip. He didn't have a need for it since he was out on the trail. If he'd planned on playing some poker he would have taken it. Instead he grabbed his Remington off the table and moved to the door. He slowly turned the knob and opened the door quickly. He had his gun pointed at the man in front of him and likewise the man in front of him had a gun on him. Both men sighed in relief. "Mr. Larabee, what brings you out here?"

"We've been looking for you Ezra." Chris stepped into the homestead followed by Nathan, Josiah, and Vin. Buck and JD were stabling the horses. Chris' eyes found Constance and he smiled. "Well Ezra, should I ask what you've been up too?"

"Mr. Larabee, I am not Mr. Wilmington. This is Constance Phillips and I delivered her baby late last night." Ezra stood near the cot and he looked down at the sleeping baby.

"Hello." Constance felt a little frightened. This man in black seemed very intimidating and all the guns scared her.

"Oh, where are my manners? Constance, these are my associates, we protect the town of Four Corners together. Here we have Mr. Larabee, our stoic leader, that is Mr. Jackson, our resident healer, next to him is Mr. Sanchez, the ex-preacher, and finally, Mr. Tanner, the tracker of the group." Ezra turned to Constance and saw relief on her face.

"It's nice to meet you gentlemen." Constance smiled, they really did seem like a nice, handsome group of men.

"It's a pleasure to meet you ma'am. As Ezra told you, I am a healer of sorts. I would like to examine you and your baby if you don't mind." He knew if she just gave birth less then a day ago, it would be good to check her and make sure everything was all right.

"Certainly. Ezra did a wonderful job of delivering my son though." She moved to the bed so Mr. Jackson could examine her and Vincent.

"I'm sure he did ma'am, but I would feel better if I checked you over before we head back to Four Corners." Nathan sat on the cot next to her. He wanted her to feel comfortable around him before he continued.

"Ezra, lets go outside and see if we can get things ready to go. I want to try and head back to Four Corners in the morning." Chris guided Ezra out the door with the others following, leaving Nathan to examine Constance in private.

"I'm glad you gentlemen found us, we were down to the last of our food." Ezra ran his hand through his hair. He really was tired and hungry.

"Where is her husband Ezra?" Josiah asked. He had seen the looks that Ezra was giving the lovely lady and knew there was a strong affection developing between them.

"Mrs. Phillips husband was killed about four months ago in a railroad accident."

"I am sorry to hear that. What was she doing out here all alone?" Vin asked. The lady had guts to be traveling alone out there at that time of year in her condition.

"She was on her way to Denver to catch a train back east. I think she has since changed her mind about that." Ezra smiled and knew that he had won Constance's heart and she would stay with him.

"You two have fallen in love haven't you brother Ezra?" Josiah could tell by the look in Ezra's eyes that he was in love with her.

"Yes, it's really quite amazing. I have never fallen so hard or fast before and I believe it is a gift." Ezra looked at Josiah, knowing he would understand what he meant.

"Indeed brother Ezra. I would say it is indeed a Christmas miracle. As is that baby in there." Josiah clapped Ezra on the shoulder and smiled.

"Ya done good Ezra." Chris also smiled. He was almost always suspicious of Ezra's motives, but not this time. He knew it had to have been difficult and terrifying to have to deliver the lady's baby under these conditions.

"Thank you Mr. Larabee." Ezra actually felt a little embarrassed. He wasn't used to compliments. Usually he was being yelled at or criticized. He had a feeling that would change now with Constance and little Vincent in his life. He already felt that he was a better man.

"Lets get settled in for the night. We can all sleep on the floor, then we head for home in the morning." Chris was ready for a little rest.

"Sounds good Chris. I could use some sleep." Vin moved to the door and knocked. He didn't want to go back inside until he knew Nathan was done examining the lady.

"Come on in boys." Nathan held the door opened as they came through. JD and Buck came around from the back and entered behind Ezra.

"How are Constance and the baby Nathan?" Ezra asked. He was sure they were both fine, but knowing Nathan had looked them over made him feel better.

"They are just fine Ezra, you did a real good job." He smiled at the southerner. He would never have thought the selfish gambler could do something like that and his admiration for the man grew.

"Thank you Mr. Jackson." Ezra looked at Constance and smiled. He was so happy that she and the baby were healthy.

"Well, what have we here? Hello little lady." Buck moved to take Constance's hand and kiss it, but she pulled it away.

"Constance, please forgive Mr. Wilmington's lack of manners. These two gentlemen are the remaining members of our group. Mr. Wilmington who've you just met and Mr. Dunne, our town sheriff." He walked over to Constance and took her hand. He knew she had to be a bit frightened by all these strange men in the room now.

"It's okay Ezra. I just wasn't prepared for his actions." Constance smiled at Buck and she could tell he was backing off.

"Hey Ezra, I am sorry Pard. I didn't mean to proposition your lady." Buck smiled and hoped Ezra would forgive him. His eyes caught the tiny baby on the bed and he smiled. "Such a small baby, how old is it?"

"About a day Mr. Wilmington." Ezra smiled at the shocked look on Buck's face.

"You delivered it Ezra?" Buck was very impressed. He didn't think he could do that.

"Yes I did." Ezra was so tired and all these questions were just making it worse. He couldn't wait to get back to Four Corners and his feather bed.

"Hey Miss? Where is your husband?" JD asked. He was curious about that, especially considering she and Ezra seemed to have some feelings for each other.

"Real tactful there kid." Buck smacked JD with his hat.

"Sorry." JD smiled nervously.

"It's okay. My husband died four months ago in a railroad accident." She looked up at Ezra and squeezed his hand. She understood how he was feeling. All the questions were getting to her too.

"Constance needs to get some rest gentlemen. So if you don't mind, can we settle in for the night?" Ezra was tired too, but he would use the chair again that night. His back was beginning to protest his choice of sleeping arrangements.

"Good idea Ezra. Come on boys, it's been a long day." Chris put his bedroll down on the floor and made himself comfortable.

They all settled in for the night. Constance and Vincent took the cot, Ezra took the chair by the stove, and the others took the floor. It was nice to have the seven together again and everyone was glad that Ezra was all right. They were only wakened once during the night by Vincent's crying. Chris had watched as Constance had tried to soothe the baby, then Ezra had taken him from her and Vincent quieted almost immediately. It still amazed Chris that children took to Ezra the way they did.

In the morning they began their trek back to Four Corners. Ezra drove Constance's buggy with Constance and Vincent bundled up at his side. The others rode their horses. Chaucer was tied to the buggy and walked along behind. It took most of the day, but they made it back to Four Corners as the sun was going down. Ezra took Constance and Vincent to his room over the saloon and got them settled in his bed. He did not want to sleep in the bed with them unless Constance wanted him to. He knew they would not be doing anything but sleeping. Nathan had told him it would be a while before she could make love.

"Ezra, I can see how tired you are. Please join us, I don't mind at all." She reached out to him and grasped his hand as he reached for her.

"You're sure Darlin? I don't want you to develop a bad reputation." He moved closer to the bed as she pulled his arm.

"Oh Ezra, I love you and I don't care what anyone else thinks." She pulled him onto the bed and watched as he slid under the covers. She leaned over and kissed him deeply. Feeling his arms come around her and holding her. They fell asleep in each other's arms, Vincent lying between them. The couple would be married a few months later and a year after that, Constance would have Ezra's baby. Every Christmas Ezra thanked God for the wonderful gift he'd been given that year.

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