Good run of bad luck (semi-open- deu)

[Galatea]

((Poor Luke. I assume they have a porch with a swing. They have to, right? Also, UGHHHH, I don’t like this post. *stab* ))
 
She laughed against his shoulder, one hand resting over his heart casually, its steady beat against her palm reassuring and comforting. He may or may not have been teasing when he went to rise, but she tightened her grip on him slightly until he relaxed again, causing her to echo the movement. She loved the way they spent early mornings, just relaxing and enjoying one another’s company. Had anyone told her back when she was seventeen just how her life would play out, she would have laughed at them. He had her entire heart now, not just the childhood attraction of her youth.
 
“Oh, I don’t see any need to have Will tail them, if that’s what you’re thinkin’.” She chuckled, tilting her head so she could see his face, amusement written all over her visage before she sobered, somewhat. “What did I do to deserve you?” She asked it in a half-whisper as he twirled her curls around his deft fingers. “I must be the luckiest person ever born.”
 
-
 
Tarquin slept curled on his own side of the bed, always. He and Sarah rarely touched in sleep, but that was alright. She usually woke him, and soon, he felt her finger tapping his nose. At first, he tried to shake it off, but she didn’t let up, and so, with a sigh, he opened his eyes, meeting her gaze with a smile- and being greeted with a slight purr in her tone. He cracked a half smile for her. It had been a fun night- he had been at the top of his game, and both he and Doc had come home significantly richer than they had been the night before. But Sarah had been as enthralling for him as he was for her. Of course, she had seen how Tea catered to Doc, and had apparently learned some of her tricks. She had edged closer, easing onto the table and giving him those LOOKS from under those long lashes. Those looks that had been driving him crazy, causing him to kiss her every single time he had a break in his turn. She had been his lady luck last night.
 
“Aye,” he preened. “Ye didnae complain tae much las’ night.” He laughed. No, she hadn’t complained at all- Galatea had given her a good-natured wink when they had left. The other pair had stayed for a few more hours, getting in as much play as possible- Tarquin had heard them come in quietly, and caught the soft murmurs as the pair had undressed and unwound from the day. For all their sensuality, they usually were content just to lay beside one another at the end of the day. But it was early and he was still tired… and Sarah rolled onto her back and dozed again, so he followed her back into dreams.
 
-
 
Will didn’t mind early mornings.
 
When Allie had been alive, mornings were his favorite time of day, actually. His wife had been a firebrand in bed, rarely letting him up for air- but then, he had the passionate Sullivan blood running through his veins along with his fathers. Morning was when they usually just cuddled with one another, whispering soft, endearing things to one another. With Allie he had been affectionate and soft, not like he was with his family. While they loved each other, sarcasm ran through them all, and poor Will was often the one who suffered the brunt of it. Not that he minded, or doubted their love for him was genuine. No, he knew they all loved him, and ragged on him because of it. He and his father often traded sharp little barbs with one another, all in good-natured fun of course.
 
Their family was unconventional, but he loved them all the more for it.
 
And now, Will had another reason to wake early, in the form of his infant daughter. Well… nearly a toddler, now, really. She was already trying to stand, and he had to keep an eye on her lest she crawl away. Since being given something to chew on, her mood had improved, and he had grudgingly admitted that perhaps she really was teething. Currently, she was napping against his chest, her little hands fisted in his shirt, and he didn’t have the heart to move her away to fix it. Or to sit down, for she enjoyed the motion of his long strides as he carried her, humming softly to himself. This was a normal morning- right until Essie came in. She started, but he smiled and shook his head slightly.
 
“No- you don’t have to leave.”
 
“You look exhausted, child.” She studied his face- he’d been up for nearly 40 hours straight by this point.
 
“Guess I am.” He smiled, though. “Annie keeps me on my toes.”
 
“She’s a beautiful child,” she said softly.
 
“Takes after her mother, then.” He chuckled, much as his father might. “Allison was the prettiest little thing you’d ever see.”
 
“I’m sorry I never got to meet her.” The woman sighed. “I’m sorry I didn’t get to meet you sooner.”
 
“Don’t be.” He smiled charmingly. “My parents aren’t what you’d call typical. And, besides, Allie woulda liked you.” She would have doted, he knew. Allie was like that- reminded him of his mother. She had a heart the size of Texas, and there was nothing she wouldn’t do to help someone else. “Besides, you’re here now.”
 
“You’re an old soul,” she said softly. He was wise beyond his years.
 
“No. I just grew up fast is all.” That, at least, was true. He had adapted to being fatherless, to having a father, to being a married man and then a widower. “I’m not so special.” Annie yawned, looking up groggily.
 
“Da?”
 
“Shhh…” he rocked her again, and she cuddled in close. Clearly, Will was an exceptional father- he reminded her very much of his own father when he had been young. He glanced up, caught her gaze.
 
And smiled.
 
-
 
Celestine couldn’t remember when she’d last had such fun. She was having a wonderful time, surrounded by Luke’s boisterous family. His sister, Grace, was charming once she got over her shyness- and Liza had already captured her heart. She was just so adorable, and so sweet. And then there was the rest of the family, so very welcoming, and so very kind. She could have stayed there all day- but Luke got up after a spell, and she knew it was time to go. Poor Liza caught her skirt, and she leaned down again with a smile.
 
“Don’t worry. I’ll come see you again real soon, okay?” Her voice took on a conspirator’s whisper, but a stage whisper as well- everyone could hear it, but it was clearly not meant to be disrespectful or rude. And she wasn’t lying, either. She graciously thanked his family for a lovely time, before following Luke out to see to the horses. She smiled when they were out of earshot, and petted both noses when they gamboled over for attention, and Luke had to go in to get something he’d apparently left behind. When he returned, his smile wasn’t as bright- and she frowned slightly.
 
But she had been raised by Galatea Shaw, after all, and brought the smile back.
 
“I like your family,” she said when they were heading back towards town. “They’re nice. Much nicer to each other than my family is, anyway.” She laughed softly. But they were, for the most part, quiet on the ride back.
 
-
 
Arriving at home, she shouldn’t have been surprised by the sight greeting them as Luke walked with her towards the porch.
 
Her mother and father had claimed the swing- Galatea actually half-sprawled on it with her head on Doc’s chest, and his arm around her- and they looked comfortable. Both were directing their attention towards the others. Her Aunt Sarah was sitting comfortably on the bench with Essie- Tarquin was at the clinic, obviously. Her brother was sitting on the steps, his daughter happily singing away to herself on his lap. Uncle Walker was in the yard, chatting away happily with the pretty woman he’d been with last night. She reached for Luke’s hand, giving it a squeeze.
 
“You’ve met everyone except Wilson Jonathan,” she said his full name quite a bit- a habit picked up from her aunt. “And Annie, of course.”
 
Her brother’s keen eyes were already fixed on the boy as he headed up the walk with Celeste. He tilted his head back, meeting his father’s gaze briefly, as though asking if this was the young man his sister was crazy about- but it was his mother who confirmed this with a wink. She had one arm loosely draped across Doc’s lap, and moved it as the pair came closer, but didn’t move away, or sit up straighter.
 
It was hot, she was being lazy.
 
“I see we didn’t frighten you off, Luke.” She smiled a greeting pleasantly. “You remember everybody, I’m sure. This is Celeste’s brother, Will, and his daughter Annie.” The baby giggled at the sound of her name, and her doting father bounced her on his knee again.
 
“Nice to meet you.” Will said it with a hint of laughter beneath the tone. The kid didn’t look too bad, but he was the older brother, and he took this role very seriously. Celeste had been born when he was already half-grown, but he had always looked out for her, always. “I’d shake your hand, but as you can see I’ve got them full.” Those lean, pale hands that were so good with a scalpel and perfectly suited for playing piano were as different as night and day from Luke’s. But that didn’t mean much- it was the way the boy carried himself. And it was clear he adored Celeste- that made Will more amiable- but he kept his eyes on the boy’s, only breaking contact when his mother called his name, a chide in the tone.
 
“Wilson Jonathan, where have your manners gone? I know I taught you better than that.” If she wasn’t using her favorite pillow, and wasn’t divinely comfortable, she would have leaned forward to swat her son. As it turned out, Essie did it for her, causing him to jump slightly, eyes wide.
 
“Mama!”
 
“Oh, you had it comin’, Will.” She laughed. “Thank you, Mama Essie.”
 
“Anytime,” the dark-skinned woman laughed. She was slowly slipping into a relaxed state of mind. Her girl was comfortable, and the conversation pleasant. Miss Sarah was enjoying herself, and she was enjoying getting to know young Will and his daughter.
 
“You’re welcome to stay awhile, Luke, honey.” Galatea’s voice was casual as she made the offer. No saloons, no fancy dinner tonight. Well- not until much later, anyway. Right now was time to spend lounging around with those dear to the heart. This was a daily ritual that they had. It had started in the afternoons when it was just Doc Holliday and Galatea Shaw. The heat was unforgiving, and what better way to make the day go by faster than to spend it lounging around outside, watching the world go by? Fact was they were comfortable, these afternoons. She hoped Luke would relax a little more, seeing them at home where there was no one to impress with the flash and glamour. She doubted it, though.

[Doc_Holliday]

His family had liked her too, of course. She was charming and charismatic. She had just the right amount of manners without seeming stuck up. She was as good a proper lady as you could find around here. Well bred, educated. A complete opposite of young Luke and his family. His tanned skin and dark eyes were a complete opposite of her fair color and light, expressive eyes. He loved every minute he spent with her, and was not worried with looking ahead. He lived day to day, for the most part. In his world, you could make plans one day and they could be turned upside down the very next. A field could be plowed and planted, halfway grown, and a hailstorm could take it all away in a few minutes. Right now, he and Celeste were enjoying each other's company, and if she was having thoughts much ahead of tomorrow, he was unaware of them.

He smiled when she spoke, the usual brightness returning quickly. "They like you, too." He said this with certainty. They would never come out and tell the girl this, for to them, she would always be at that unattainable level of equality. Luke saw her as a fun, adventurous girl that he liked. He laughed at her reference to his confusion on her family's curious habit of sarcastic affection.

He saddled both horses quickly and expertly, explaining anything that Celeste seemed curious about, and helping her pull up the cinch on Cleo. He boosted her up, mounted Sterling, and headed off back into town in the afternoon sun. It was once again a pleasant time to ride. The blazing heat of the midday sun had subsided. This being only her second ride, Celeste already looked far more comfortable and in control of Cleo. He pulled up right beside her, grinning before easing both horses into a perfectly synchronized, slow trot. He stayed right alongside her to make sure she didn't bounce out of the saddle, but really, she was doing very well.

"Just move with her," he encouraged, with his usual half smile tugging at one side of his mouth. This seemed to help her, and he let her continue like this for awhile before bringing Cleo back down to a walk. They continued into town at this pace, and he hopped off from his mount, confident that his horse would go nowhere while he walked around to his little paint mare's right side and helped Celeste down. He would have simply ridden off then, probably, but her entire family was lounging out on their porch, enjoying the afternoon air and sun. He followed Celeste, tethering both of his patient horses within eyesight to a post that was outside of their gate.

He didn't pull away when Celeste grabbed his hand to squeeze it, though reflex nearly made him do just that. He wasn't sure exactly what her family's thoughts of him were, and he certainly didn't want to offend or upset them. He nodded when she stated that he had already met everyone, their faces vivid in his memory from the night before. Except, of course, for her older brother Wilson Johnathon and his daughter. He knew this man to be another practicing physician of the town. There wasn't a man in her family that didn't have an occupation that wasn't considered respectable by the vast majority of people. Even her father, as a gambler, was deemed to be of a respectable line of work that was often envied and admired. By city folk, at least, he thought with an inward grin.

"No ma'am," he offered in response when Celeste's strikingly beautiful mother spoke to him. He hadn't been quite frightened off. His glaze flickered to the doctor when she introduced him, and he detected the hint of laughter in his voice when he spoke to him. "You as well, sir," he responded with more stiffness than was typical of him, but still kept his expression pleasant and friendly. He nodded and smiled when Will offered his apologies for not shaking his hand, more of his usual warmth coming to the surface then. "No, sir, you've got an important armful there." It the most he had spoken at one time around the family, the sight of the young girl bringing him out of his shell a bit. He remembered when Eliza had been that little, and littler, even.

This introduction hadn't pleased Celeste's mother, though, her threat to swat her son being carried out by the dark colored woman that was lounging with them. The casual and relaxed pose of both of her parents did little to make them appear less intimidating. None of them were as dressed up as they had been the night before, but they may as well have been. They were still so much more elaborate than he was, especially now that he wasn't even wearing his Sunday finest that the stark difference in his appearance and their's was nearly laughable. Doc Holliday was also armed, as usual. The only weapon Luke usually carried was a rifle tied to his saddle, and a handgun only when it was called for or necessary.

Doc Holliday's sister was also present, though absent the man she was betrothed to. Luke was fascinated by this man, Tarquin, if he remembered correctly. He was also a doctor, the main doctor of the town, and as such was most likely away at his clinic while the rest of his family enjoyed their free afternoon. The first time he had heard him speak and that familiar Irish accent spilled out of his mouth, he had been taken aback, confusion difficult to hide on his face. He had met and worked with plenty of good Irishmen. They were honest, strong, and hard workers when they wanted to be. These men had been his equals, though, dirt in the eyes of many upper class men, which is what he had obviously assumed Tarquin to be, and that was alright with him. The best people he considered himself fortunate to know where dirt to someone. Not well educated, hardened from years of back-breaking labor, and filling necessary positions that made them unworthy to mingle with proper society. It made it easy to disassociate with those people, and he was probably as jaded and prejudiced towards rich men as they were of him, only because he had been kicked when he was down so many times. Until he had met Celeste and her family, at least.

Tarquin especially, because he had never met someone that sounded like he could be one of his own kind in such an elevated position in society. There was a very clear difference in his accent, though. It wasn't the same poor Irish accent he was used to hearing, which indicated that he had been raised quite properly. Still, he was the first Irishman he had ever met to achieve this, and he couldn't stop himself from staring at him sometimes and wondering how he had done so. He had obviously never spent a day in his life working; not in the same sense as Luke had. His hands were unmarred, suited to delicate medical procedures rather than laying railroad ties or hauling timber. His posture was perfect and gentlemanly, and from what Luke could see, he lacked any scars on his arms or body that were inevitable among his people. Perhaps he had simply come from wealth and Luke was thinking far too much into this rags to riches story he had concocted in his head.

He felt out of place, once again, but didn't want to offend Celeste's family by bringing her home and leaving. He did have some time before he had to head back home, and he wasn't the best liar. "Only as long as I'm not imposing, ma'am," he said with a bashful duck of his head. She had offered so genuinely, so gently as if trying not so scare him off, and he felt mandated to oblige. It wasn't that he didn't want to stay though, really. He was glad that she had offered, gratefully taking any extra time he was able to spend even just in Celeste's company. Still, his gaze would attempt to focus on the girl at his side, and end up nervously flickering back and forth between her parents, and now her brother. He was in over his head with this group, that was for sure.

(Don't worry, he will get over his insecurity soon. Miss Deu, you have to just dive on in here with us! Don't let us leave you behind, ha!)

[Galatea]

Galatea looked over the boy again, a little sigh nearly escaping. He was in a place that had been so familiar to her, the first few months she had been with Doc. He felt hopelessly outclassed by the family- and they could be overbearing, she knew. Still, he should have taken it as positive that neither Will nor his father seemed the least bit perturbed at his presence. Will shifted up the stairs, leaving the lower ones for the young couple to sit on, and smiled charmingly as Celeste tugged Luke over and settled in comfortably. The boy knew the value of family, clearly, and now he did shift Annie and extend one of those slim, pale hands for a shake. The younger members of the Holliday clan- and they usually included Walker in that group- were far less formal than the rest. Especially Walker, who had done rough work, and even now didn’t technically have a profession.

Well, he supposed he would probably have to settle in now, if he wanted to continue with Belle. He had been offered a place as a deputy- which he had told NO ONE in the family. Not yet. He didn’t even know if he was going to take it, yet. But he had been a Peace Officer and he knew his way around both the unwashed masses and the upper classes, something that would work in his favor, of course, if he did accept. The previous night he had been too absorbed in Belle to really speak much to Luke, but he remedied that now as he led Belle- who he had picked up late this morning, letting her sleep after a night of learning the ins and outs of poker- closer to the group. His gaze took in the boy, and he nodded with a smile. No, there had been no wealth there to cushion a fall. But the boy got on with it, of course. Admirable. He kept Belle with him, though.

“I’m sorry, cherie. Ya must be bored with me,” he teased with a merry twinkle in his eye. “Afternoon, Luke.”

“Are ye givin’ Tea a hard time?” A laughing voice came up the walk. Tarquin was dressed comfortably, carrying his usual bag with a smile on his face as he crossed towards his family quickly. At the curious expressions, he smiled. “Aye, I know I be home early. Tis hot, an’ not a soul ees out an’ aboot.” He casually shrugged then. He’d left a note tacked to the door- everyone knew where the Holliday clan lived, which was not far from the clinic in the grand scheme of things. If he was needed, he could be there in a hurry- but right now it was hot, and the sun was at its height. He always got a bit sleepy around this time, if it was a warm day.

“I live to give my sister trouble, Tarr. Haven’t you noticed?” Walker laughed, though it was on the tight side. “Anyway… I’m gonna take Belle to meet Jack. See ya’ll later.” He turned the girl in tow, and the strawberry blonde continued up the path, his smile growing wider when he noticed Celeste’s young, dark-haired escort from the night before. The boy had given him shy looks the night before, but Tarquin liked the boy. He’d seen him around town before Celestine had (in fact, he had brought her attention to the boy for the first time), and he knew the family slightly, from when the youngest daughter had been under the weather and he had made a house call. They were an honest, hard-working family, and their word was their bond.

“Hello, Luke.” He slanted him that smile again.

“You’re a pleasant surprise,” Tea shifted, slightly, eyes looking back at Luke’s. “See, Luke, we’re not always so formal. And it’s Tea, or Gallie.” She laughed. “It’s no imposition, really.” She titled her gaze to Doc, then, as though inviting him to agree or disagree, before settling back in, arm draped across his lap again.

“You kids didn’t tell me how you found each other,” Essie said it softly, and Tea laughed again.

“Oh, well… he picked me up at a poker game.” She colored slightly. “We’ve been together ever since.”

“You two just happened to meet up, then?”

“Aye, they did.” The strawberry blonde skillfully maneuvered himself up the stairs, carefully pulling Sarah up, settling into her spot before tugging her back down into his arms, letting her use him as a chair. “Iff’n I ’adn’t seen it for meself, I wouldnae belive eet.”

“Honestly, Mama Essie, by that point I wasn’t even lookin’ for him anymore. Figured he was dead, and that was it.” She sighed. “He was the one who offered makin’ our little fling a more permanent arrangement.” Not that she had objected- not at all. “Can’t complain, really.”

“Nay, ye cannae, lass.” Tarquin agreed.

“And you, Miss Sarah? Why did you leave?”

“Mama Essie, I’m sure that’s a story better told at a later time.” Galatea spoke smoothly. “So, Luke, how did Celeste do with her riding?”

[Doc_Holliday]

Luke's smile was always honest and genuine, unlike Doc Holliday's or many of his other relatives. Luke did not have that sly smirk that so casually slipped into place that let everyone know that the wearer knew something they didn't, just not what specifically. This was the smile he offered now as he took Will's extended hand happily and shook it in official greeting. The handshake between them was cautious, and carefully calculated by Luke so that Will was the more dominant of the two, fitting of their respective titles. He allowed himself to be tugged down onto the steps that Celeste had claimed after her brother had made space for them, settling down comfortably now next to her. Well now, this wasn't so bad after all. They seemed like regular people, almost.

He nodded his head at Walker when he felt the man's gaze on him, him seeming to be most of all one that Luke could relate to. He was rougher around the edges, as one might say. "Afternoon, sir," he still responded with engrained respect for a gentleman older and above him. "Good to see all of you again." All attention shifted then to a tall figure making his way leisurely up the walk to where the rest of the group sat lazily. The Irish doctor was back, and a sound coming from the blonde woman perched on the bench signified that she was happy with his unexpected early arrival home. Luke's brown eyes looked up at him from his place near the bottom of the steps, not sure whether he should say something or not. Just as Tarquin was arriving, Walker took his leave with Belle. Luke stood up as he drew nearer to make room for him to walk up the stairs, but then took his place again next to Celeste. The Irishman acknowledged Luke, then, taking away the awkward, shy silence he had been observing. He too seemed to have one of those smiles that implied there was more there than what met the eye.

"Hello, Doctor O'brian," he replied at last, unaware that the man had been at his home and seen Grace before. He had been away at the time. The way he sat now he was able to see and look at everyone that was present, and his gaze flickered back to Galatea when he heard his name. Celeste really was just a shorter, younger version of her mother. He could really see that now that he had been given the opportunity to see her up close on two occasions. He nodded at her instructions on what to refer to her as, unsure of whether or not he would be able to comply with them. If he was younger, his mother would have twisted his ear for having called the woman by her first name.

From his place beneath Galatea, Doc chuckled and nodded. "You'll find we're hardly ever as boring as we were last night. You left us before the evening really got going anyway," he drawled, this of course being an agreement to Tea's statement that they weren't always so formal. That the boy was not an imposition did not need to be stated, he felt. Anything other than acceptance of his presence would have been quite clear. So far he didn't dislike him, nor did he have any specific fondness for him. He was wary of him because of the nature of his association with his daughter, of course, but young men such as young Luke Grant were hardly ever dangerous unless they were on a drinking binge and in a crowd after a long day of work.

Sarah had stood to meet Tarquin as he approached, greeting him with an embrace and a kiss. She was much more open with her displays of affection with him now that they were engaged, though it was most likely not a conscious decision. Her love for him had never been questioned, but she seemed to feel more freedom to publicly express it now.

"I'm glad you are home early," she whispered to him, letting him take her place next to Essie and laughing when he pulled her down with him. She settled into his lap comfortably with her arms wound loosely around his neck and her head against his chest. There was no describing or mimicking the feeling of comfort she got whenever she was this close to him. Essie spoke up then, her curiosity not even close to being satisfied, and she couldn't help but laugh softly at the simplified explanation Tea offered for how she and Doc had found each other again.

"I really had no choice, the way you were throwing yourself all over me that night," her companion offered from underneath her, sly grin in place as expected and blue eyes waiting to meet her green ones as soon as she whipped her head around to look at him.

Sarah shook her head, still in slight disbelief that they had found each other again and that he had managed to conceal his identity from her for so many years. With the general belief that he was dead though, it wasn't that difficult to see why Galatea wouldn't even question his vague resemblance to the young man he used to be. She stiffened when Essie turned her attentive gaze on her then, asking the difficult question on why she had left. Her question was not asked with any intended malice, but Sarah felt herself withing against Tarquin as if she were being interrogated. Before she could scramble together a sentence to begin with, Galatea's voice cut in, saving Sarah from having to explain on the spot in front of everyone. She met her friend's gaze and shot her a look of relief and gratitude when she shifted the attention back on Luke, much to the boy's most likely chagrin.

He smiled, though, always pleasant, and looked back at Celeste for awhile, answering the question as if speaking directly to her. "She did real well, ma'am - Tea...ma'am," he faltered, laughing at himself openly. He was stumbling his way through this unknown territory as best as he could, finding himself more nervous than when he encountered something that threatened his actual physical life. There was no point in pretending to hide who he was, they all knew it and didn't seem to mind, and this took a burden off of his shoulders. He couldn't use his strength and knowledge of the natural world around him with these people, and he certainly had little book smarts to offer, and so he was forced to just...be. "Next time I think we can go without saddles. Like the Cheyenne," he continued, remembering her mildly surprised reaction when he had first mentioned them when telling her about Cleo. His eyes were bright with humor as he spoke. He, too, could tease gently when he wanted to. Working men could be downright cruel in their jokes to one another, and he was unfazed by it in that context - it was among families and between parents that it surprised him. Surrounded by all of these Southerners and an Irishman, his own accent stood out even more. He had never given much thought to the way he spoke before, but now it was blatantly obvious to his ears when compared to the drawling lilt that everyone else had a trace of in their voice.

Now he casually looked away from Celeste, easily able to forget that there were others around them when he met her fiery gaze, and glanced around him again as if to indicate that he was open to any other questions the family might have of him. They knew little about him and surely would want to know more if he was going to be spending time around their precious Celeste. He unconsciously quickly glanced over towards Will who sat nearby, expecting the most judgement from either him or the siblings' father, though the man seemed for the most part disinterested and quiet. As the town's primary physician, Tarquin worked with people of all classes, aiding not only those who lived within the city, but also to families like his that lived out in the open country. Yet, he still seemed almost too nice to be genuine. He was comfortable here with Celeste, though, and visibly more relaxed when he realized that his purpose here was not to deceive or trick her family into thinking he was not a lowly homesteader. Still, he prayed that he was able to make a good impression and not completely confuse her family on why she had chosen to hang around a boy like him.

[Galatea]

((I’m sorry, lovie! You know you’re still my favorite, right?))
 
Will fought the urge to laugh. Luke was mighty hesitant, shy, almost, but that didn’t bother the younger doctor. He was having a bit of fun at Luke’s expense, but he really didn’t see too much of a threat in the boys mannerisms or stance. Still, he would continue to look out for Celestine as any doting older brother would. But Annie took the majority of his attention. She had quieted down significantly when she had something to chew on, and so he had grudgingly accepted that his daughter was, in fact, teething. His gaze flicked to his mother, echoing the younger mans. His sister was very much like their mother, really. She may have inherited their fathers expressive blue eyes, but that was pretty much it, as far as her looks were concerned. She was her mother’s daughter, that was a fact. She wasn’t as sensual as their mother, though, which was mildly surprising. Their parents had chemistry that was evident in every minute touch, and they were
always well-within one another’s personal space. Their father was also a charmer by nature- his profession demanded it- and he was usually more than happy to gift a little bit of affection towards his chosen woman.
 
Yet Celeste was neither a charmer by default or a siren. She retained her demure appearance, despite the vibrant locks that echoed their mother.
 
His father spoke, and Will chuckled softly. His parents had looked fantastic the previous night, which meant for boring dinner conversation while the two youngsters were about. He was sure that they had hit the tables after, though- his father rarely missed a night, and his mother enjoyed it just as his father did- and, judging from the pleased look on his Uncle’s face, he judged that Tarquin had hit the billiards table.
 
“It’s true.” He grinned. “And amiable enough, drunk or sober, so long as you keep your head and play straight.” A laugh.  “Well, except for Tarr, of course. But he’s a pool hustler,” his eyes sparkled merrily, snapping with interest. He may have had his mother’s eyes, but he had inherited the captivating depth and interest from his father, clearly.
 
“Will!” Celeste laughed. “Ignore him, Luke. Uncle Tarquin isn’t a pool hustler. But Will is- don’t ever play a game with him.”
 
“Hey! I’m not that bad!” Will protested with a shake of his head.
 
“Oh please, Will.” Galatea rolled her eyes. “The way you two go at it? I’m glad ya didn’t get your daddy’s fondness for poker.” She laughed, though. “Seriously though, Luke, only play a friendly game with either one of those two.”
 
“Mama!” He protested playfully. “I am not a hustler, and I’m not half bad at cards, either.”
 
“Didn’t say you were, honey. Just said you aren’t fond of it like your daddy.” She reached up and caressed the gunslinger with one hand. She slanted her gaze towards Essie as the woman spoke, and shook her head at the amusement of the man she was currently using as a pillow. “I was not ‘throwing’ myself all over ya, thank ya very much. Besides, I didn’t hear any complaints that night, or the next.” Or the next few dozen, she thought with a grin. Her smile was cheeky as she ghosted her lips over his. “Still don’t hear them when I slip into your lap.”
 
“Pay them no mind, Essie.” Tarquin laughed. “Ye will find that those two do nae always play by tha rules.” He comfortingly tightened his grip on his beloved Sarah as she fidgeted, trying to comfort and soothe her, while keeping his purr at bay. He had tried several times to tell Essie the night before, but it hadn’t worked at all. She had dismissed him out of hand every time. Galatea shifted the conversation skillfully, winking at Sarah as though telling her everything was alright, and laughed as Luke spoke again. She’d be damned if she wasn’t charmed by him.
 
“Must have gotten her father’s skill that way- first time I was up astride I was sure I’d fall off.” But she hadn’t, for John had been there to help her keep her seat, skillfully guiding the horse, carrying on pleasant conversation as if it were normal to have a pretty little thing perched in front of him in the saddle (though for him it probably was). “Thankfully, no harm befell me.”
 
“And just when were you astride a horse?” Essie looked at the girl askance.
 
“Well… I didn’t just go ridin’ ‘cause I felt the need.” She blushed slightly.
 
“If your father had known…”
 
“He would have smiled indulgently ‘cause he favored John Henry.” She finished teasingly. “I daresay he still would, if he weren’t six feet down.”
 
“Oh, you…” Essie huffed.
 
“Pay them no mind,” Tarquin repeated it softly. True as Galatea’s words may have been, it was an uncomfortable truth.
 
“I do hope you know what you’re getting into, Luke,” Will laughed softly, his voice glaringly lacking even a trace of his parents’ accent.
 
“Oh, now, Will, I’m sure he’s realized by now,” Tea teased gently. “You’ll have to excuse him, Luke. There are times I swear he was raised by dogs.” Her gaze shifted toward the gate, then, where the horses were tethered. “Sure is a sweet little lady, isn’t she?” She murmured it. There were times she missed having horses, but there was no need, really. Still, there was something wonderful about the back of a horse.
 
“W-without a saddle?” Celestine blinked. “Isn’t that dangerous?”
 
“No more dangerous than with a saddle,” Galatea murmured. “Long as you’ve got someone to watch out for ya.” She had always had someone to watch over her, anyway. She sighed, turning her gaze back to Luke. “So, Luke, I’m curious. However did you two meet? Not that I’m complainin’- curious, is all.”

[Doc_Holliday]

He could tell he would be the butt of the family's jokes for awhile, but he wasn't too upset. Will looked like he was stifling a laugh, so Luke smiled at him. He was observant when it came to things and people around him. His gaze traveled over to the Doctor then, mild surprise registering on his face when he learned that he moonlighted as a pool hustler sometimes. When Celeste spoke up, reassuring him that he was joking, he didn't know who to believe.

He laughed, shaking his head, his tousled dark hair swaying with the motion. "Don't worry, I wouldn't dream of it," he reassured the girl. He knew the game and would play it on occasion but didn't take any particular thrill from the game. It was a good way to unwind after a long day outside.

From his place beneath Galatea, he chuckled when she turned her attention back on him. "Whatever you say, darlin'," he said with a near wink thrown in for good measure. But he hadn't complained, that was true. It wasn't likely that he ever would, either. He glanced over towards Essie, though, keeping a straight face and reassuring the woman that he had it right the first time. "She was."

Sarah laughed when her man spoke, and nodded in agreement. She could see that Doc could not disagree with this statement, and he looked rather smug. Still, she half expected some remark on how he and Galatea were the picture of societal norm. But he remained silent. He looked back from Celeste to Luke then as Tea mentioned that she must have inherited her natural talents as a rider from him. He had always been gifted to find the horse suited to his exact needs and was a talented enough rider. He was sure that Luke had more finesse and working experience with horses though, and his concern for Celeste's safety when it came to riding was not that great because of it.

Luke looked towards Will again and laughed, gritting his teeth and making an expression as though he was suddenly concerned with what he had gotten himself into. He had been in far more dangerous and precarious situations, but he had never ventured into high society as he was doing now. This was something completely different, and he was trudging ahead blindly, lacking any reference or previous experience to use as a template. So far, though, he didn't seemed to be out of line or have crossed any boundaries.

He followed Galatea's gaze as she looked out towards Cleo and Sterling, once again nearly beaming with pride when she commented on his little Indian pony. He could see on her face a look of nostalgia, probably thinking back to when she owned and rode horses. "Let me know if you want to ride her sometime, Tea, ma'am," he said in his casual tone, compromising on what to call her. "Or Sterling," he indicated to his handsome mount waiting patiently next to Cleo. He looked back to Celeste with a grin, and shook his head at her concerned expression. "It's different," he agreed, "but we won't get there just yet."

Even though he was open to questions if they wanted to ask them, he was worried about the honest answers he would have to provide. He didn't come from money, obviously, had a large brood of siblings, and lived out in the country away from "civilization," if that was what these boomtowns could be called. This one wasn't so bad, it was growing up quite nicely, but some of the places he had been to made him thankful to live out where he could be alone and it was quiet. He blushed when she addressed him again, and he cast his gaze down at the spot between his feet on the stairs, fingers snatching up a piece of long grass he spied in front of him. He knotted it skillfully without thinking much on it, forcing himself to look back up to the rest of the group.

"I'd see her around sometimes whenever I came into town for things I needed," he said, looking at Celeste frequently so it didn't seem like he was talking about her as if she wasn't there. "But I never tried to talk to her," he said with another unconscious, shy duck of his head. Of course he had wanted to, but it was his place to admire from afar. "She came over to me though, and we started talking...and I guess, just kept doing until we got to know each other," he finished with a nervous smile. The whole thing was still difficult for him to describe because he wasn't sure himself how it had happened and how they had ended up where they were now. He tossed his knotted blade of grass aside and brought his hand to his head, running his fingers through his dark shaggy hair in a habit that came through when he felt nervous or under pressure. He was beginning to like these people, even though they set him on edge. The more time he spent around them, the more obvious the fact of how vastly different their lives were would become. He began going over a plan for escape in his mind, but it would be difficult without seeming rude, so he stayed put, equally unwilling to leave Celeste any sooner than he had to.

[Galatea]

((Edited. If they’re keeping the cat, it needs a name!))
 
Will responded with another laugh as Luke assumed a fearful countenance, though it was clearly over-exaggerated and meant to amuse. He was hardly a very serious person- his parents had taught him early on that life was a zero sum game- no one got out alive- and you might as well be able to laugh about it. He may have looked intimidating, but once someone did prove they could keep up, he was usually much less formal with them. So far, Luke was proving to be entertaining and quick-witted. He could adapt to a different setting than what he was accustomed to, yet still maintain his humble outlook on life. Like Will himself, he had obviously matured quickly, another thing that gave him a positive point on the mental checklist. So far, that was mostly positive… the only real drawback was that he was interested in Celestine. Otherwise, Will might have actually considered befriending the boy.
 
Tarquin smiled almost indulgently when that dark gaze shifted to him, surprise on his features. He shook his head with a grin, as though assuring him that he wasn’t really a pool hustler (anymore) and would prefer that the boy think of him as a doctor, not a hustler. “Jus’ ye listen tae Lessie.” He winked.
 
“Trust you to take her side,” Will shot back, before Annie squealed with delight as one of the many stray cats in the area made itself at home on the porch. It sniffed her hand, purring, before looking towards Tarquin. It wound its way around his ankles, before repeating the gesture with Essie, finally deciding there was enough space on the swing to lay down on Tea’s skirt, where it stretched out in the sunlight, purring. The woman glanced over, shrugging. She had always had a soft spot for felines, and this one was sleek and muscled despite being a stray- obviously well-fed. A scratch was delivered to the ear, and the creature purred happily.
 
But it was then that Doc, while initially agreeing with her, spoke directly to Essie. Her gaze whipped back to his, a half-grin on her pretty face. He was in trouble- with a capital ‘T’. “I’m sorry, sugar, what was that?” She quirked a brow. “I do believe throwin’ myself all over ya would have been far more entertainin’.” And probably produced a different result entirely. Still, she swatted at his shoulder playfully- and smirked, knowing full well he was going to play the feigned injury up. Essie’s eyes went wide, but the redhead didn’t notice, locking gazes with Tarr. “And you, kitten! I’ll have you know we are the very epitome of propriety.” She assumed her best haughty expression, for all of thirty seconds, before she snuggled back against Doc’s warm chest with a serene smile on her face. He was warm and always smelled like smoke and whiskey and gunpowder, a combination that she loved dearly. It was a dangerous scent, one
that spoke volumes- even if he was all tenderness and softness with her.
 
She noticed Essie’s incredulous look, then- laughed softly. “Mama Essie?”
 
“Did you just…?”
 
“Did I just what?” She chuckled, stroking absently along Doc’s hand, with feather-light touches.
 
“Miss Gwen, you just…”
 
“Oh.” She sighed. “Swatted at this one?” At the nod, she smiled. “Of course. Didn’t hurt him, much as he may try to convince ya otherwise.” She was careful with him, always. She’d only struck him once, in the heat of anger, and even now was still recovering from that incident. This little swat was much lighter than her usual teasing taps, and she made certain that he was not actually hurt with that sharp green gaze, and patted his thigh lightly.
 
“Miss Gwen, that’s hardly normal!” Her expression was shocked.
 
“Why, Essie, whatever are ya talkin’ about?” She looked askance at the gunslinger. “Sugar? Did normalcy change?” She nearly reached for a kiss, but didn’t, choosing instead to wrap her arm around his waist for a change.
 
“Sorry… my parents can be strange,” Celestine ducked her head with a little blush. “They have odd ways of showing affection for each other,” she muttered. Her mother was worse than her father that way- though occasionally she would catch him giving her a light little swat in retaliation. Still, her parents were happy together.
 
“Odd as it may be, can’t be denied,” Will said as his daughter crawled out of his lap and towards the front door. The porch was railed in, and with his spot on the stairs, he could ensure her safety, so he let her.
 
“And we’re not deaf, either,” Tea murmured softly. Luke’s mounts distracted her then, and she smiled charmingly. “I might have to take ya up on that offer sometime.” But her gaze was softer than usual, not the sharp gaze she used on her man (when in public, anyway), as Luke began to speak. It didn’t surprise her that her daughter had made the first move- she had, too- but what did surprise her was how Tarquin’s eyes snapped merrily.
 
“It just felt like I should go over.” The girl shrugged naturally. “I would see him around town, and he had been moving this big block of ice. I thought… well… he could use something to cheer him up a bit. He looked kind of lost.” Those puppy-dog eyes had drawn her to him quickly. From then on she had looked for him in town. She’d been out with a few other young men- suitable prospects with wealth- but they didn’t interest her as this country boy did. The lawyer she had seen for two weeks had been pompous and arrogant- she was merely there to draw attention, nothing more. She hadn’t needed to end it- Will had made certain the man would not bother her again. But they didn’t remember her name, or interests, or even really talk to her. Her opinion was not voiced, so it didn’t matter. Luke, on the other hand, always lit up when he saw her, and he always knew her name. He asked her opinion, too. He never talked down to her, never was
arrogant and self-pious. “He was nice to talk to, and nice to spend time with.” She blushed as she met his gaze, ducking her head self-consciously.
 
“Nothing wrong with that, honey.” Tea smiled. The boy was fidgeting with his hair in adorably awkward fashion, clearly unnerved. This was a blind step for him, she knew. “Your father and I enjoyed chattin’ each other up plenty.” They had, too. Most of the times they were together had revolved around a social event, meaning they could not enjoy one another as they would have alone, so they had gotten along quite well. The Holliday siblings had quickly become her solace at these dreadful events (Lottie’s wedding being the worst), but more of her time was spent with him. He was her escort, of course- they rarely left one another’s side. “Oh, now, honey, it wasn’t always stolen kisses with us. We had appearances to keep up.”
 
“What stolen kisses?” Essie slanted them a sly look. “Oh, for pity’s sake. I KNEW you were sweet on that man- don’t think I didn’t.” A pointed glare. “Even if he was five years your senior.”
 
“And Willowby was nearly fifteen, but ya never threw a fit over him.” She shot right back without thinking.
 
“Oh, girl, I knew you wouldn’t marry him.” She sighed. “Even back then, only one young man had you sniffing back. Only one I tolerated sniffing around you.”
 
“Need I remind ya, Mama Essie, that both the young lady and gentleman who did the sniffing are both adults now, and right here?”
 
“But you two are still a pretty couple,” the woman softened then.
 
“We’re not a ‘couple’, exactly.” She couldn’t define what they were, though. She knew she was his, as he was hers, but they never really defined the nature of their association. It worked well for them, and that was all that mattered. They were more than lovers, but more than mates as well, making it hard to define, honestly. “We simply prefer one another’s company, is all.”
 
“My parents are unconventional, Miss Essie. Pay them no mind when they get this way.” Will said it softly.
 
“Anyway…” Tea sighed. “It’s gettin’ late, and I’m sure your parents are waitin’ on ya, Luke, honey.” She graciously offered him a way out, without being forceful about it, and clearly not throwing him out. “If ya need to go, just say so.” She smiled.
 
“You don’t have to leave now, though,” Celeste said it softly. “They won’t be getting up to get ready for another couple hours or so.”
 
-
 
The few hours passed in a flash. Luke was charming, that was for certain, and the teasing between the family continued, including the boy occasionally. But it was starting to cool off, and loathe as Tea was to admit it, they had to get ready for the evening. And for work, she mused with a little laugh. The cat who had deigned to sit near her had long since abandoned her skirt for her lap, before making a decision to curl in Doc’s lap instead, purring. This was a normal housecat- except this one had no owner, but was friendly as a puppy. Tea had given the tom strokes, and slanted a look towards the family, as if confirming it.
 
The cat was staying, no beating around the fact. She rose, stretching a bit before patting her thigh lightly. “Come on, cat. I’m sure you’re hungry, and I’ve got some nice creamy milk.” The brown tabby yawned, snuggling back into the gunman until she mentioned the word ‘hungry’. At that, he lifted his head, gold eyes blinking before hopping down and following the woman to the door, which she opened, letting him in first before sighing. “Come on, sugar. Gonna need your help lacin’ me up.” She could do it herself, but it was much more comfortable (and easier) when she had help, and often was far more amusing, especially when it was him.
 
“I can do that for you, Miss Gwen.” Essie started.
 
“Oh, Essie, relax. He’s gotten quite good at lacin’ and unlacin’ my corset by now.” She didn’t even flinch when that caramel colored gaze met hers. “If those two aren’t indication that we’re familiar, Essie, I don’t know what would be.” She gestured to both son and daughter, and the woman nodded slowly. “Oh, Essie…” she lightly touched the darker woman’s cheek. “I didn’t mean to snap at ya.”
 
“I forget, sometimes, that you’re grown up now. And you aren’t as morally proper as you used to be.”
 
“If I had been, Essie, I wouldn’t be where I am today.” She shrugged. “He’s the only one who gets my attention now.” That was said softer, though not so soft that he couldn’t hear it, deliberately glancing towards his handsome face briefly before capturing his hand, tugging him lightly. She winked, though, as though baiting him before opening the door again. The nameless cat looked up at her, as though offended that she had left it all alone in the house, and she couldn’t help but laugh. “Alright, cat!” The feline mewed, and Tarquin chuckled. He could get along quite well in cat- and he knew this was actually a feline, not as he was. Still, the impatience…
 
“Impatience, thy name be cat.” He said it with another chuckle.
 
“Cheeky, aren’t ya, General?” Tea said it with a laugh, before pulling her gunslinger in with her, leaving the rest on the steps. Will made a show of yawning before bounding down the stairs, his daughter back in his arms.
 
“See everyone later!” He called it merrily.
 
Celestine took Luke’s hand, tugging him up in a near replica of what her mother had just done to her father, only sweeter. “Come on. I want to show you something before you leave.” It gave them an excuse to spend some time alone before he had to ride home.
 
This left Tarquin, Essie, and Sarah- who was still in Tarquin’s lap while he played with her long blonde hair, curling one particular curl that was tempting him. Her hair BEGGED to be played with. It was a mass of spirals that cast off the sun perfectly. His other hand was resting at her hip, holding her close as he breathed her scent in like air. Essie was looking at him curiously, he smiled back.
 
“She called you General.” She said it more as a question than actual statement. “Why did she call you General?” The man sighed, carefully shifting Sarah off his lap, unwillingly. He then drew her face to his, kissing her softly.
 
“Five minutes,” he nodded before heading into the house, down the stairs into the pantry, where he usually shifted. It smelled good and was nice and cool. Plus no one ever really went down there unless they were cooking (which no one was today). It was ideal. He stripped down quickly- he had developed a routine by now- and allowed that painful shift. When his vision cleared, he was a svelte flame-point Siamese- and the tabby looked at him curiously as he came up the stairs.
 
“Why smell you different, cat?” The tabby inquired politely.
 
“I shifter am.” Tarquin responded in kind, politely. “What your name is?”
 
“Called Bruin I am.” The cat said it proudly. The tabby did resemble a bear with his coloring, so it fit. “Who you are?”
 
“I Tarquin am.”
 
“Your house this is?”
 
“No. Your house this is.” He confirmed. “Rest you here. Mistress will good care of you take.”
 
“Share you Mistress with me?” The tabby lowered his head. “Do not deserve, Tarquin.”
 
“Mistress wants.” He said simply, and the tabby nodded. The woman had always been nice to him in town, and he had followed her here hoping that she would let him stay. As the flame-point headed for the ajar door, the tabby mewed, suddenly.
 
“Tarquin-cat. It alright to lie on beds is?”
 
“It is. If human lying in it, wait to invited be.” He replied with a smile as the tabby streaked up the stairs before continuing his trek outside. He flagged his tail instantly, heading straight for Sarah first, stretching up with a ‘Mau!’ that would surely strike a chord in the dark woman. He leapt up, purring, to delicately nuzzle the blonde woman’s cheek, before nudging his nose to hers, the rumbling in his chest increasing as he stepped across to Essie.
 
“My word… General?” She peered at him as he responded with a mew. “This is impossible… he can’t still be alive.” The cat eyed her, before returning to Sarah, purring. He only spent a few more moments looking at her steadily, before he headed inside, back down to the pantry to shift back. This took longer, for he was very fussy- and he had Bruin here now, looking at him curiously.
 
“You human are?” The cat’s eyes went wide. “Nice human. Feed me you did.” The Irishman stroked the tabby with a smile. “Master you be?”
 
“Nay,” he spoke softly. “Ye dinnae ‘ave a master ‘ere.” He scooped the cat up as he headed back up the stairs, depositing him on one of the more comfortable chairs in the sitting room.
 
“Like you I do, Tarquin-cat.” The feline yawned. “Nice you are, for human being.” The tabby dozed quietly, and the doctor headed back out, greeting Sarah in similar fashion- with a brush of his nose to hers, only this time she was standing, and he was taller than her.
 
“Sorry, me darlin’ lass. Bruin wanted a bit o’ crack.” He laughed, knowing full well ‘crack’ here did not mean chatting, but he used it anyway for confusions sake. “That be tha new cat’s name.”
 
He didn’t see the smack coming, and this one was a bit harder than what she had given Doc and Tea the previous night.
 
“You! You pretended to be a cat?” Another swat. “And you watched… how many people did you watch get dressed?”
 
“Nae… Essie…” he tried not to laugh, really, he did. She swatted him again before slumping, and he shook his head and eased her back into her seat. “I didnae pertend tae be a cat- I wasnae raised tae know I could shif’. An’ I didnae watch anybody get dressed. I was a g’nleman.” He chuckled. “We did try an’ tell ye.”
 
“When… how… did you find out?”
 
“Tea.” He shrugged. “She saw I was nae agin’ as I should o’ been. I shif’ed firs’ time wi’ ‘er by me side.” And had been in agonizing pain, but that didn’t need to be told. “I didnae wish tae deceive, and I be sorry for it.”

[Doc_Holliday]

He shrugged off the swat this time, it being lighter and less well intended than Miss Essie's, and he would not give Galatea the satisfaction of predicting his next move. Essie had a look of sheer disbelief on her face at the gesture, but neither Galatea nor the man whose lap she sat perched in could immediately bring to mind what they could have done that would have offended her so. They both stared at her with rather blank expressions, waiting for her to voice her disapproval. The interaction between the pair was so commonplace to anyone that spent an extended amount of time around them that a playful swat from Tea didn't even register. Never once though had anyone seen Doc Holliday lay a mean hand on his woman, even in a joking manner. His preferred way to get her attention was to hold her by the upper arm, never forceful, but with enough pressure to keep her in place long enough to plant a kiss on her inviting lips.

He suppressed a laugh when it did turn out that it was the light smack that had upset Essie, but Tea was quick to wave it off as normal and explain that she did not hurt him. He met Essie's gaze and nodded. "She beats me," he added sadly. "But in most cases I deserve it." He flashed a grin, then, snaking an arm around her waist and leaning back, bringing her with him. His lips grazed her neck and jawline, fingers intertwining with her hand that had just been stroking his.

He sat up straight when the conversation picked back up again, looking first to Essie with her proclamation that their behavior was not normal and then back to Tea, who questioned him on the matter. "No, darlin', I'd say we've never been quite the standard." He glanced over to Tarquin and Sarah who were still happily wrapped up together. "I dare say they're more what you're looking for."

Sarah quirked a brow at her and Tarr's mentioning, picking up on a trace of a mocking tone in his voice. "Go ahead and say exactly what you are implying, John," she said with nearly a matching sneer, but her eyes danced with laughter.

"Why, Sarah, you know I'm not one to say what I really think," he responded with obvious sarcasm. His steel blue gaze crossed over to Tarquin's, and he met the healer's evenly, a smile twitching at the corner of his mouth. "It's about time, that's all," he said finally, looking rather smug. Whatever personal tension there was between the two men, and there always probably would be especially now since Tarquin would be primarily responsible for the well being and safety of his sister, he made her happy, and Doc wasn't one to get in the way of something that made someone he cared for happy. He hadn't followed the typical path of life set out for him, making many people unhappy along the way, so he wasn't one to judge or hinder someone else's decisions.

That went for Celeste as well. She seemed to have inherited her parent's knack for going against the grain of society, becoming quickly infatuated with a boy not equal to her in social standing, but far from it when it came to worth of character and ability to charm. Unintentionally, of course. The boy was obviously not a player or out to make young ladies swoon - he was accidently charming. He was not a threat, and both her father and brother seemed to pick up on this. As long as she was not in harm's way, her affections were hers to give as she pleased. And she did so, despite questions from her peers. If Doc Holliday were ever to take the time to feel an emotion such as pride, it would have been now.

His attention snapped back to Tea and Essie, who were deeply involved in a conversation that was a key figure in. He smiled his sly smile in agreement with everything she had said. Their feelings for each other ran deeper than what was externally perceived though, which, taken for what it was, was really not that unusual an arrangement for a gambler and a lady to have. Despite all this, neither ever defined their association, and were masters at evading the prying questions as Galatea had just done.

-

His laugh was soft and unwearied despite all of the hardships he had experienced in his young life. For the most part he was not jaded and kept a pleasantly optimistic outlook on life. It was the only way to get by. The sound came when Celeste spoke of approaching him to cheer him up as he was working. The lost expression she mentioned had only come about as he had seem her coming up to him, and he had no idea what to say. At first he had expected her to be marching over to scold him for stealing glances, so confident was she. That was clearly not the case, as he realized within a few short moments of her staying and speaking to him, not at him.

Both of them met the other's gaze and looked away quickly, Celeste's cheeks turning a soft pink as she concluded her contribution to how they had met. Thankfully, the attention shifted back to being among the adults only for awhile, and this awarded Luke the opportunity to drop his voice down low and meet her gaze again without the pressure of an audience.

"I'm awful glad you talked to me that day. And the days after," he added with a laugh, feeling guilty for never having initiated the contact. He just couldn't have, except for a friendly acknowledgement of "Miss," in passing, but even that had not been achievable to him. Typically, he preferred to be seen, not heard, and he kept mostly to himself unless someone made the effort to bring him out of his shell. Celeste had been stubborn enough to stick around after getting few words out of him, and little to no direct eye contact, always busying himself with his work or task instead of stopping to talk. Eventually, though, he could meet her gaze, and would casually lean on the rail or wagon he was working near and just be comfortable with talking to her.

The rest of the evening passed surprisingly quickly for just sitting around and talking amiably. Tea had politely offered him the opportunity to leave if he needed to, but he had nowhere to be until tomorrow morning, and he would have rather stayed anyway. As evening began progressing into night and the air was beginning to cool with the lack of the blazing sun, the family began shifting their positions and getting restless, ready to move on. Tea lead a cat that had joined their company awhile ago inside for something to eat, and he smiled at her obvious affection for animals. Celeste had also apparently inherited this trait, taking to the cat and his horses well. As Will left and Celeste's mother and father strayed inside, he let himself be tugged upright into a standing position with the promise of something to show him.

Luke said his goodbyes kindly and politely, letting Celeste pull him away and then finally turning to match her steps. "Do you really have something to show me," he asked with a teasingly skeptical tone to his voice, patting Cleo's and Sterling's noses as they walked by. He had excused himself for a few moments earlier in the afternoon to walk both of them to the livery stable down the street, letting them drink their fill of water, and he would take them again before he headed home. Both were patient and comfortable, though, so he did not need to worry for them now.

-

Sarah watched from her place as each pair began to break away. Doc would undoubtedly be heading out to enjoy some hands of poker this night, and Tea would probably join him. He was in high spirits, and that was when she most frequently accompanied him. Sarah was feeling rather lazy, and just wanted to lounge around their home and sleep. Now that it was quiet and she could hear the summer crickets making their comforting noises, she felt that she could have dozed off, head against Tarquin's chest as his skilled and nimble fingers played with her hair. She barely registered Essie's voice when the woman spoke, but she gave a grunt of disapproval when Tarquin shifted her off of his lap.

She looked up at him with questioning eyes as if begging him to stay, unsure of why he was leaving, but not holding him back if he wanted to go. She looked to Essie after he had left, confused with half sleep but didn't have the chance to say anything before he returned, thought he was not as he was when he had left them. She smiled when the feline jumped into her lap and nuzzled against her face and nose. She stroked him along the length of his back and tail before he went over to to Essie, meeting her gaze intelligently and then quickly disappearing back down where he had come from.

It was undeniable that she lit up when he returned to her as her man, and after the affectionate touch of noses, she wrapped her arms around his neck and sighed. With her eyes closed and again pressed against his chest, she smiled, though he couldn't see the expression. "Just don't leave me again," she joked when he apologized, then turning her blue gaze onto Essie's horrified looking expression. She didn't have time to evade or block the smack aimed for her man, and it surprised her just as much as it probably surprised Tarquin, even though he had seen Doc and Tea recieve similar punishments for their wrongdoings the night before. Sarah frowned lightly and put her hand over where he smack had landed, rubbing it lightly even though it hadn't been hard enough to inflict any real pain or damage. She understood Essie's concern though, as Sarah had struggled to see past the situation herself, and for a long time had not spoken or been able to look at Tarquin. The man had a way of winning people over though, and this brought a smile back to her face.

"He's an honest man, Essie," Sarah reassured the woman, in reference to his promise that he didn't watch anyone dress, undress, or otherwise witness anything that a human male would not have been privy too. For the most part, at least. Sarah had been embarrassed when she had realized who Tarquin was because she had often confided in General when he had been around. She enjoyed talking to the cat with the way his intelligent eyes would seem to follow and understand what she said. Little did she know just how much he really had understood. She had moved past it though, and he was once again her confidant. She had never been happier, either, than when she finally did, and came to love the man that was now her fiance. She was sure Essie would come around to accept him for what he was as well.

(Awkward, awkward, awkward...all the way around.)

[Galatea]

At his mocking tone, she had sighed. “Oh, I know. You have such a horrid life, what with the daily beatin’s and all.” Her tone was light, though shadows had begun to linger in her eyes before he pulled her closer to him, lips finding her jaw and neck, causing her to melt into his embrace. She liked having the sensitive skin of her neck and jaw played with, and he damn well knew it! Still, he laced his fingers through hers, and she tightened hers over his for the briefest instant, nosing into his neck to return the favor, kissing his pulse point before nipping lightly. She knew he liked having her so close, and the gesture was so subtle that no one would have caught it.
 
“Normal is subjective,” she shrugged.
 
When they took their leave, she half-tugged him up the stairs, making it to their room before finding his lips with hers, hard. Her arms wound around him, pulling him close before she pulled away, eyes meeting his with a sparkle. “That’s for teasin’ me.” Then her kiss turned softer, her hand running up his spine gently. “And that’s for puttin’ up with me all these years.” She shifted away then, her routine down to a science, changing out of her day wear, and turning her back to him, lifting her hair in a silent request for him to lace her up. He never laced her too tightly, either- just enough to maintain that perfect posture, and she had to admit it was much more pleasant when he was the one tightening it. His touch was light, and he often brushed his lips over her neck, or shoulder- trailed his hand lightly over her skin, teasing touches. Once the task was completed, she dressed (again in green), before taking time to brush out her
hair. She relied more on flash in the evenings, as did he, and she caught his eye in the mirror with a smile.
 
“I do think I’ll do nicely with ya tonight.” She rose, then, giving him the full view, head tilted. “Like what ya see, or see what ya like, sugar?” She purred it, teasingly, as she sashayed closer to claim his lips with hers again.
 
-
 
Celeste replied with that musical laugh that echoed her father’s, but with Galatea’s dulcet tones as well. “What if I said I just wanted you all to myself?” She challenged, hugging his arm a bit closer than was necessary, but she was no fool. She could see the longing looks from the town girls, and she didn’t want him to ever doubt her affections. “Besides, my parents are getting ready to go to work.” She shrugged. Their hours were familiar to her, and that their profession wasn’t exactly normal didn’t faze her. “They’re on a streak of luck right now- Mama’s his ‘lady luck’.” She shook her head.
 
She let that pretense drop, though, and looked back up at him. “Seriously, though… they like you. If Daddy doesn’t like someone, he makes it pretty clear. So does Wilson Jonathan- he got that from Daddy. And my Mama- well, she’s just about the nicest person once you get to know her.” That was true- Galatea was as comfortable in a hut as in their big house, and she helped people quietly, behind the scenes, never once letting out who she had helped or what she had done. But then, Tarquin had learned much of his manners from her, and he, too, had a compassionate nature. “They do like you, though.” She said the last more to herself, unconsciously hugging his arm close again. “Even Will, which is a compliment. He doesn’t really talk much to anyone, anymore.” She averted her gaze then. Everyone in town knew the sad tale of the younger physician’s poor young wife dying in childbirth, leaving him a widower with an infant daughter to raise.
‘Poor lad’, they would say. ‘Such a shame…’
 
Will didn’t like this sort of talk. He had, at first, until he had watched his father and mother one night when he had literally hit bottom. He knew his fathers’ illness was slowly killing him, and painful to boot. His mother knew, eventually, she would have to watch the man she loved die. She still allowed herself to love the gambler, and he still allowed her the privilege of being with him in every sense of the word.  He had gone home that night and simply lay next to his daughter, watching her sleep with a father’s natural tenderness, before he had made the decision to live again. He had only confided in his sister and mother, though.
 
“Well…” she looked up at him, again. “I suppose we should say goodnight. I’m sure your parents will be waiting for you, and your mama would be worried if you got home too late.” She patted Cleo’s nose, followed by her uncle’s Jack, who stuck his muzzle inches from her face in a demand for affection, causing her to laugh and stroke the dun gelding gently. “Alright, Jack.” She kissed his velvet-soft nose. “Oh. This is my uncle’s horse, Jack.” She indicated the tall mix. “He’s not the smartest, but he’s sweet.” She stopped stroking him then, glancing back at Luke.
 
“Well… I suppose I should start heading home too…” she trailed off, not wanting to leave him.

-
 
Essie still stared at him with misgiving, and he sighed slightly.
 
“Iff’n eet makes eet any bett’r, I didnae know ‘ow tae shift a’tall. An’ I wouldnae dream o’ hurtin’ anyone.” He rested his chin atop Sarah’s head, watching Essie with those pale blue eyes. This was true.
 
“You’re a shifter…” Essie looked at him now, softer. “Like Mistress Cadence was. Like Gwen and Will.”
 
“Nay.” He shook his head. “Tea isnae a shifter. Not anymore.” He couldn’t remember the last time she had been in fur, but it had been years, and he doubted Doc had ever seen her in that form. He lightly nudged the drowsy Sarah. “Ye are nae hungry?” At the word, Bruin slipped back out, looking up curiously. “Nay, ye ‘ave ‘ad enow, ‘ave ye nae?”
 
‘Food want.’ The cat looked up. ‘And petting. Want petting, I do.’
 
“Gae ta see Mistress. She will pet ye.” He waved the cat towards the door.
 
‘Door is closed. Cannot to Mistress get.’ He looked up pleadingly, but it was Essie who scooped him up and held him, eliciting a happy purr.
 
“I missed having a cat,” the dark-skinned woman said as the cat closed his eyes happily. “This one is a real cat, right?”
 
“Aye,” Tarquin laughed. “’is name be Bruin.”
 
“He’s handsome for a cat,” Essie murmured, to which Tarquin sniffed slightly. He was handsome as a cat, too! It was then that Tea returned, Doc in tow, looking like a butterfly. The rich green hue was velvet, and it cast off the light in a shimmer, while the black accents brought out the kohl around her eyes. The neckline was teasingly modest- a ‘sweetheart’ neckline that allowed just the faintest glimpse of creamy skin, and the emerald pendant rested just over the edge, drawing the eye perfectly. She had actually half-pinned her hair up, though she still left a cascade of scarlet curls to tumble past her shoulder blades. She laughed softly as Tarquin blinked, and Essie’s eyes widened. The color brought out her iris’ to perfection, but today there was a smug smile on her face, and she looked different than she had the previous night. This was not a girl of the line, nor a wife. This was something undefinable.
 
“Whatever are y’all starin’ at me for?” She chuckled throatily. Even Essie was staring, so the effect must have been very, very good. “Sugar, you’re gonna be beatin’ ‘em off with a stick tonight.” She tossed her head, and Essie’s jaw dropped as she went into the classic ‘model’ pose- one leg slightly bent before the other, hip at an angle, wearing that smile.
 
Where had this woman, so confident in her sensuality, come from? The kohl around her eyes was not too thick, the rouge used sparingly, and her lips were left naked, though full from his earlier kisses. She oozed sensuality and things that every man desired- yet she was modest and her poise impeccable. The color today was a refreshing change from the dark gown she’d worn the previous night, and had enough flash to match the gambler perfectly. She wound her way around the seemingly dangerous gunman with a little laugh, draping herself against his back with her chin on his shoulder, lips close to his ear, where she blew a tiny puff of air across the shell, just to watch him shudder.
 
“Hmm…” She feigned contemplation. “I suppose we do have a certain… flash… tonight, sugar.” She spoke against his neck, lips ghosting over the skin there, fully into her Southern Minx routine. Then she laughed, shifting around in front of him again, shaking her head at Essie’s expression. “Sorry, I couldn’t resist. Most folks ‘round here think I’m a man-eater.”
 
“Miss Gwen… how… when… how?”
 
“Do I do what I do?” She shrugged. “I learned most of it from observing. The rest I learned from experience, and I learned how to push this one’s buttons over years of practice.”
 
“That’s almost obscene.”
 
“No, Mama Essie, I’ve seen obscene. This is harmless.” She slipped her arm through Doc’s. “C’mon, sugar, let’s go.” She smiled. “Night, all. Don’t wait up, we’re gonna hit the tables hard tonight.”
 
“Hit the tables?” Essie blinked.
 
“Aye. They will play poker t’night, till the wee hours of morning.” Tarquin supplied.
 
“With her dressed like that?!” She blinked. “Someone’s liable to take liberties with her!”
 
“Not with gunslinger here,” she dipped back her head, pecking him on the lips. “He’d shoot ‘em dead before they got very far- if they didn’t have a knife in their gut first.” She laughed softly. “Now, seriously, we need to go before someone else gets the best vantage point at the table.” They took their leave then, neither one needing to alter their pace to keep up with the other, and Essie watched them until they were out of sight.
 
“He’s really killed in cold blood, hasn’t he?” She muttered with a little shudder. “Oh, you two don’t worry about me. You should go to dinner.”

[Doc_Holliday]

He good-naturedly obliged with her unspoken request for him to lace her up. He had by now learned exactly how she wanted it to be, and his nimble fingers tightened her corset in what seemed oddly like second nature. With her back turned to him, he took his time doing his job, sweeping her hair from one side to the other and leaving a trail of gentle kisses on whichever side of her shoulders and neck he had revealed. He finally finished, and she continued dressing, showing back up in a green dress that so happened to be one of his favorites. He smiled approvingly.

"You always do," he said with a nod when she commented on how well she would match him this evening. They never looked like they didn't belong together. It saved them equally a lot of trouble to have it look that way. For Tea so that she wouldn't have to put up with unwanted advances, and for Doc so that he wouldn't have to kill anyone. He grinned when she slipped into her normal charming routine, letting his lips meet hers without much protest. He didn't require much in the way of changes for the evening, but had been pulled upstairs to assist her anyway. Once both were satisfied with how they each looked tonight, he lead the way back down the stairs and outside to where the air was already comfortably cool and inviting without the sun in the sky.

Essie looked surprised when she saw Galatea, which was expected. When she spoke with that sound of wonder in her voice that had become typical for her of late, Doc could only grin, shaking his head ever so slightly in disagreement. It was not uncommon for people in the saloons to be from out of town. Many of the men there were simply passing through, but even they quickly realized and were not dense enough to mess with Doc Holliday's woman. She was a constant fixture in his lap, and the way he allowed and even encouraged her presence was enough of a message that she belonged there with them.

Despite the way she clung to him, he stood in his characteristically firm but casual stance, attention seeming to drift back and forth between Tea, the rest of the group in front of him, and the streets. He decided not to make a show for Essie this night and make the woman more upset than she already visibly was. "Night," he offered to the group as a whole with a tip of his hat, but as they walked away, Essie's incredulous voice made its way to Doc and Galatea's alert ears. It was enough to provoke a response from Tea and a wink from Doc, but they kept walking and soon disappeared around the corner.

Sarah sighed, losing most of that drowsy feeling she had been lured into while resting against Tarquin's chest. She had her arm linked through his, now, but was watching Essie and her reactions closely. She came more to attention and gave a soft 'tsk' when she heard Essie speak out loud what she had been clearly imagining her brother to be like. She couldn't defend him completely, he had taken lives, but cold-blooded was not a word she would use to describe him.

"Essie, you have to understand," she said sadly, trailing off. Typically there would be an explanation following a statement like that, but she had none to give. There was no explaining that man. Essie just had to understand that. She looked up at Tarquin standing next to her, looking lost and giving a shrug and a shake of her head to indicate that she had nothing else to say. She doubted he did either.

After a few moment of silence, Essie picked up again, urging them to head to dinner and Sarah realized that she could indeed tolerate something to eat. "You are more than welcome to join us, Essie," she offered, knowing that Tarquin would not object to her company. She also understood though if the woman would prefer to fend for herself at home where it was quiet since there was always something around to eat. "Are you hungry enough to go out, love?" She turned to Tarquin, then, smiling and again kissing him happily.

-

He blinked, eyebrows raised in genuine surprise at her boldness. "I would say I suspected it all along," he said matching her soft laugh. He let her lead the way, not certain if she had a particular track in mind or if she was just walking aimlessly. He wasn't very concerned over it, simply content with having her walking next to him. Her parents', well mostly her father's line of "work" was strange to him, though not looked down upon. His own dear mother would not approve, he thought with a smile. The family certainly seemed to enjoy the fruits of the couple's labor, living and dressing more than comfortably.

When she changed the subject and took on a more serious tone, he met her gaze. "I like them," he was hesitant to say, feeling completely out of line in judging their character. He hardly knew them, and even if he had known everything about them, judgment was not his place. He laughed, though, nodding in agreement. He could believe that her father and brother would make it very clear to someone that they did not approve him. This eased his tension considerably. He had no idea what he could have done to earn their tentative approval, but he sure was grateful for it.

Again they enjoyed a few moments of comfortable silence together, until she spoke in a tone that he knew was the beginning of a goodnight. "I suppose," he echoed, but she changed the subject once more in introduction of her uncle's horse. He eyed him quickly, smiling and holding out his hand for the tall creature to nuzzle. "Nice to meet you, Jack," he said with a laugh. He was a good looking horse. Strong, dependable, and an obvious look of loyalty in his expressive brown eyes even if Celeste claimed he was not the smartest. "Oh, now," he said with another laugh. "Not everyone's smart in the same way, are they, Jack?" He knew that first hand. He patted the side of the horse's neck and returned his own dark gaze to Celeste.

He glanced back in the direction they had just come from, and nodded. He didn't want to keep her out late, and as much as he would have liked to stay, he had to get up early and tend to his business. "I'll walk you back home," he said without letting her turn him down. He took her hand, and headed back to her house, two horses in tow that didn't need much motivation to follow Luke. Again they walked in no particular rush, but eventually they did end up in front of her house. Everyone else had gone their own separate ways, but the inside of her home was lit and cozy looking.

"Thanks for keeping me company today," he said with a laugh, his habit of lightening a more serious moment through casual humor becoming more apparent. He wasn't sure when the next time he would have to come into town again would be, but he was finding himself making excuses to come just to see her. He was standing awfully close now, and she wasn't stepping away. Knowing he had to take each opportunity around her and make the most of it, he leaned in the tiny extra bit that was necessary to kiss her on the cheek. He lingered, this bold action of his giving him the confidence to trail downwards just a little, brushing his lips against hers quickly but softly. It was nothing like the long, passionate kisses her parents shared, but it was a sweet, gentle show of affection and goodnight.

"Goodnight, Celeste," he said, finally stepping away but only releasing her hand when they were too far apart to maintain the contact. He was grinning, apparently unable to be serious around the girl that lifted his spirits so, and hopped up onto Sterling without even looking. His gaze was glued on the young girl on the ground in front of him now. He rode off, then, looking backwards for the first few jogging steps but then raising an arm in a farewell and looking forward to ride out of town as Sterling picked up his usual, steady lope.

(I am leaving it in your capable hands to give us something exciting next! Haha. We need to see Tarr in action, soon, I thinks!)

[Galatea]

((I’ve decided on three weeks having passed. Didn’t feel like getting graphic into him popping the joint back in, since Luke’s the one feeling it!))
 
Her girl was love struck, no ifs, ands, or buts. Galatea shook her head again with a little chuckle as Celeste again sighed dreamily, instead of eating her breakfast. The family was gathered, for once, including Will and Annie- only Walker was absent, and had been since accepting a position as a deputy, knowing both Galatea Shaw and Doc Holliday had no respect for the law, nor the lawmen who enforced it.
 
“Celestine, your breakfast is getting’ cold.” The girl started back to reality instantly, eliciting a laugh from her brother and Tarquin.
 
“Sorry, Mama.” She blushed prettily.
 
“No harm done,” she chuckled. “I know there were a few mornings I got that look over breakfast when I was about your age.”
 
“An’ lunch.” Tarquin added, skillfully evading a swat from the redhead who sat to his left.
 
“And dinner,” Essie completed. She had quickly become accustomed to their strange family dynamic, and was slowly letting herself relax around the family. This teasing was gentle, but firm, and well-intentioned.
 
“Why did we agree to let ya stay with us?” Tea teased right back, glancing at her plate with minor disinterest before nudging it away, slightly. Celeste sighed again, and this time Essie gave the girl a pat on the shoulder to bring her back, startling her.
 
“Miss Essie!” She almost squealed it, and her mother laughed. The girl had been sulking since Luke had ridden off three weeks ago- having given her a chaste but affectionate kiss goodnight. “You scared me!”
 
“Celeste, honey, if ya don’t eat you’ll waste away.” Galatea said it pointedly.
 
“Yes, Mama.” Celeste turned her gaze towards her father then, as if pleading with him to defy her mother’s words and tell her she didn’t need to eat. But he didn’t contradict Galatea in front of her (not that she could recall) when it came to either of their children (or even Annie), so this was a false hope, and she resigned herself to eating her stone-cold breakfast. Tarquin finished first, as usual- Galatea was picking at her plate- and stood with a yawn.
 
“Ah’m off tae tha clinic.” He kissed Sarah softly before leaving, glancing at Will. “Ye comin’?”
 
“Of course,” Will stuffed the last piece of bacon on his plate into his mouth, handing Annie off to Essie before pecking the baby on the forehead and Essie on the cheek. “See you all later,” he followed his uncle out the door. Galatea finished next, and hopped up instantly to clear the table, despite Essie’s insistence that she could do it.
 
“Nonsense, Essie, you’re family. I am perfectly capable of cleanin’ up after myself.” She quelled any protest with those words
 
---
 
The two doctors could easily carry on conversations, and the short walk was fairly easy. The sun was just starting to fully crest the horizon, gilding everything its rays touched. Their town (which was becoming a small city, and already there were permanent fixtures which would make it last) was quiet in the early morning, and the gentle breeze a comfort. Will, as the junior here, did the majority of triage and minor treatment, as well as assisting with the more complex, while Tarquin handled the complicated and midwifing, as well as oversaw the practice as a whole. Most towns were lucky to have one doctor, let alone two- but if this did become a city, they would more than likely need more staff. Already both doctors were run ragged some days- which was when Galatea and Sarah would usually step up to help. The clinic itself was large- it boasted three sickrooms, an operating theater, and an examination room, as well as the large stockroom. Not bad for a
country doctor to oversee, all in all.
 
The one irritation was that they shared the main office. Tarquin had built the clinic expecting it to be a solitary practice. When Will had come on board, he had thought it would be temporary, but then had realized how much good having both did. Less wait time all the way around. He was already planning on hiring Luke, and possibly his father and brothers, to add onto the clinic- not that anyone knew that, of course.
 
Doc may have been a true master at casually making things happen the way he wanted them to, but Tarquin had been named after a Roman king, and he could plot and plan, tying everything up in a neat little package. The end result was the same.
 
“It’s so tight in here,” Will complained again as he went to his desk, pulling out a thick file. Tarquin recorded everything for quality’s sake, and to watch trends, and he had made his nephew into a record-keeper himself.
 
“Aye, I ken.” The healer shrugged. “But tis tha only option.” Horses trotted up outside, and he looked towards the door in time to see Luke tying his mount to the post across the street- using only one arm. He glanced at Will, who chuckled and looked out as well. “What d’ye make o’ that?”
 
“Injury- probably broken arm or dislocated shoulder.” Will shrugged. “And he’s not heading this way, either.”
 
“Not good.” Tarquin looked at Will, who grinned.
 
“You thinking what I’m thinking?”
 
“Aye, my nephew. I taught ye so well.”
 
“What can I say, I learned from the best.” Will smirked.
 
“That ye did.” The Irishman shrugged. “Do ye want to fetch him?”
 
“Oh, no, Uncle, he’s all yours.” Will’s sly smile mirrored his father’s when he was in a particularly amused mood.
 
“Alricht, then.” The Irishman headed across the street quietly, calling the name first. “Luke, me lad!” He waited for the turn, before shaking his head. “That will nae gae away on eets own, ye ken.” He put a firm, but friendly hand on the boy’s lower back, guiding he to the clinic, and into the room downstairs. Will caught up quickly, hiding a smile. Tarquin was already fussing over Luke as if he were part of their family.
 
“I won’t be askin’ how ye managed such a smashin’ piece o’ work.” He smiled ruefully. “Ye’ve a dislocated shilder, an’ eet willnae be pleasant tae put eet back in.”
 
“Those hurt.” Will shot him a smile as well. “Hurt like hell- done it myself once, when Trib tipped up his heels and deposited me on the ground.” He stepped up quietly. “Uncle, I’ll make the rounds so you can take care of this.” He lightly patted Luke’s good shoulder. “You’re in the best hands possible.”
 
Tarr waited until he left before sighing. “Alricht, laddie. I ‘ope ye are ready fur this.” He took hold, and prepared to ‘pop’ the shoulder back into joint.
 
---
 
Unfortunately, fate had other immediate plans for Wilson Jonathan Holliday. Immediately he was belied by a very lost woman, who had set off in the right direction after his assistance. Then he was beset by the Cramer clan- the twins apparently had colic, and his reassurance was needed. He was heading out again as Celeste came hurrying up, hugging him tight and pecking him on the cheek.
 
“Annie tried to stand up today,” she smiled, and he kept his arm through hers as they strolled for a moment.
 
“Did she?” A father’s instinctual pride kicked in, and his smile was very natural.
 
“Yes. She was so cute.” She looked at Will’s face. “What are you trying to keep from me?”
 
“Me? Nothing.” He shrugged, but glanced at the clinic again habitually.
 
“What’s wrong…? It’s not Uncle Tarr, is it?”
 
“No. No, it’s nothing for you to get that pretty little head of yours worried over,” he shook his head.
 
“It’s not Daddy, is it?”
 
“No, of course not. He’s as healthy as he can be, all things considered.” He chuckled. “Mama makes sure of that, and he likes to keep her pleased.”
 
“Then what… why do you keep looking at the clinic?”
 
“I’m supposed to be doing the rounds.” He said it slightly harsher than he meant it to be- she stuck her tongue out at him improperly.
 
“Then go! Fly, be free!”
 
“Celeste…” he kissed her forehead, once. “I’ll see you later.”
 
“Of course you will!” She smiled cheekily, waiting until he was in the livery stable before bounding across into the clinic. All was still, but she could hear her uncle’s voice, soft and comforting.
 
“Ahm sorra, laddie. Couldnae be ‘elped, tho.” He was coming closer, leading Luke with him. The boy’s arm was in a sling- and the pretty young redhead’s hand flew to her mouth. She didn’t register that he was back- just that he was hurt, and her worry overrode her good sense. Tarquin’s eyes flashed, once, with mild amusement- poor girl looked shocked, before she all-but wrapped herself around the by, taking extreme care not to hurt him worse than he already was.
 
“Are you alright? You’re not badly hurt, are you?” She touched his cheek, worried blue eyes on his brown ones. She went to her toes, brushed a faint kiss over his cheek, and jaw, and lips. Her eyes noted the sling, then. “Oh, god… how bad was it?”
 
“Lessie…” Tarquin warned.
 
“Are you alright?” She demanded it again, and the Irishman shook his head. What he was going to say could wait- Celestine Holliday had gotten her mothers’ sense when it came to men, which was essentially none. She was fussing, though she could hardly help it.

[Doc_Holliday]

The cause of his current affliction stood several feet away, separated from his herd. The young steer had pulled him right off his mount, the awkward landing and jerking of the rope Luke held in his hand in the opposite direction doing a fine number on his arm and shoulder. Initially blinded by the pain, he had pulled himself together to locate Sterling, who had walked back to his fallen rider's side, and turned his attention back on the animal that even Luke could not bring himself to blame for his pain. Realizing quickly that he now had only one good arm, he walked towards the steer, shooing him on foot back to his herd. His trail mates had seen the fall, and one of them rode over to check on their partner.

"Luke," he spoke firmly to make sure the boy was in his right state of mind.

"Yeah," he responded, dusting himself off with his right arm, the one that wasn't hurting him.

"You alright?" The young man dismounted and approached the even younger Luke.

"Yeah," he managed to offer, though he felt that something wasn't right. His partner seemed dubious as well, but didn't press it.

"Can you ride?"

"'Course," he said, flashing a smile but fighting back the urge to scream and kick something. "Dammit," he muttered under his breath now that the dull throb was becoming more intense as his adrenaline wore off. He and the other rider each managed to mount their horses again though, and Luke completed the painful journey back home without uttering a single complaint, as was expected.

-


Riding with his injured shoulder was agonizing. He attempted to lessen the jolting pain by choosing to ride Cleo. The little paint mare was much smoother in her gaits, and he didn't use a saddle to spare himself the trouble of tacking her up with one arm. He managed to bridle her though, using a fence post to mount the shorter pony and grimacing at every slight motion. He had worked through injuries before, he couldn't remember the last time he had needed a physician for something, but deep down he knew that this wasn't something that would simply work itself out. The fact that he could not move his arm in the slightest without sending searing pain into his shoulder and back should have told him this more obviously, but he denied it internally, refusing to let himself be put out of working condition.

That had been the day before, and when he had gotten home from the trail he had simply gone to bed, exhausted but unable to sleep for there was no position he could find that was comfortable. Now he had been asked to ride into town by an elderly neighbor to send a telegraph. Never one to turn away a request for a favor, he obliged but luckily there would be no lifting or hauling involved today. He inhaled sharply as he slid off of Cleo's back, the pain not having subsided, and she swung her head around to look at him questioningly. He smiled and patted her neck reassuringly. "I know, I know," he spoke to calm her, and the droop of her head indicated he was successful in his intention.

Just as he was stepping down from the steps of the office and making his way next door to the mercantile, he heard his name being called, and the voice calling it was familiar. He turned around, the Doctor sweeping up to him so quickly that he didn't even have a chance to offer a greeting before he made his agenda for approaching him quite clear.

"Uh," he faltered, mustering a sheepish grin despite his discomfort. "I was hoping it would," he offered. It was less an attempt at humor than it was an admittance. Tarquin was having none of it, and he physically guided him to his clinic, Luke nearly digging his heels into the dirt the closer they got. He was not a fan of medical clinics, they usually never meant good things, but his shoulder was killing him despite his best outward effort to show that it wasn't. He continued to let Tarquin guide him until they were in a good sized room downstairs in the clinic, which is when Will also appeared. With both men present he felt entirely foolish for being in the situation he was in. He couldn't shrug, or he had would have, when Tarquin mentioned the source of the injury.

It was no secret. It really was a ridiculous way for him to sustain an injury, doing something he had been essentially born and raised to do all this life, and he would have told him if he had gotten a chance. His eyes widened though and the thought fell from his mind when Tarquin let it drop that he did indeed have a dislocated shoulder. Part of him was relieved since he had heard men say that the pain of a dislocated shoulder and popping it back in was nothing compared to the relief you felt after it was all said and done. The other part was petrified because he had seen it done before, and as the good doctor mentioned, it was not pleasant. Will's spoken words were unnecessary, and Luke let his gaze flicker over to him with half a smile.

"Yeah," he agreed, instinctively holding out a hand as if that would keep Tarquin at bay as he approached to fix it. He watched Will leave as if the man was his last saving grace. He trusted Tarr's abilities completely, though, and he dropped his hand that he hadn't realized he had been holding out to protect himself. He nodded as the younger doctor left to tend to his business, smiling in response to his assurance that he was in good hands. That was the least of his concerns.

He sighed, resolving to do whatever it took to fix the awful pain in his shoulder and nodded, letting Tarquin grab hold of his left shoulder, his mere touch practically unbearable. He winced and clenched his teeth hard, coming the closest he had been in a long time to shouting some choice words as the Doctor pushed his arm past what he thought he could tolerate. He didn't even register the loud 'POP' that signified his shoulder was back in place, but let the feeling rush over him with great relief. The difference between what he had been feeling before and what he felt now were like night and day. Barely believing it was over and how much better it felt, he finally peeled his eyes open and finally met Tarquin's gaze.

"Thank you, Dr. O'brian," he said, in disbelief that it had been as "simple" as that. He was still sore and did not want to move very much, but he could focus on something other than the awful pain now. That something was how long it would be until he could use his arm normally again, his livelihood and possibly his life depending on it. He could be grateful he was not injured worse than he was. He let the doctor wrap his arm up for him, again thanking him. "Doctor O'brien," he began as he followed the doctor up the steps. "How long before I can work normally again?" It may have seemed to be an odd question coming from a boy that had just minutes before had a dislocated shoulder, but it was probably one that the doctor heard often in the farming and ranching community. Surely he would understand, and not think the boy overeager or ungrateful of his skilled work in fixing him up.

Another familiar face waiting in the clinic when they reached the top, though, and he lit up when he saw her, momentarily forgetting that his arm was in a sling and still hurting. "What?" He questioned, his face mirroring her worried expression, but when she wrapped herself around him, surprising him slightly, he realized what it was that was bothering her. "Oh," he said with a nervous sounding laugh. More than anything he hated upsetting or worrying those he cared for.

"Yes," he answered her first question. He was alright. "No," he replied to her second with another laugh. He was not badly hurt. Her gentle touch against his face, followed by the light brushes with her lips against his cheek jaw and lips nearly made the entire course of events, starting with his fall worth it. He smiled, clearly beaming from her show of affection and holding her close with his good arm, ignoring his bad one and the sling entirely.

"Not bad," he murmured. "My fault entirely," he said, brown eyes twinkling. "Really, I'm alright." He kissed her lightly on the cheek to thank her for her concerns. His fingers found hers and played with them as he kept eye contact with the girl, his calm, quiet demeanor usually successful in getting people all riled up back down. "Doctor O'brien - your uncle - he fixed me all up," he informed her happily, glancing to said doctor, then. "Doctor O'brien, I'm sorry, I don't know how much I owe you..." His tone was more serious now, wanting desperately to pay the man for his assistance as he deserved. As he did not use the clinic's services often, he was unaware of what a reasonable rate of pay was, or he would have just given it to him.

(I love Tarr so much! I tried to work as much interaction with him in there as possible but it still wasn't enough haha!)

[Galatea]

 
((So I wasn’t sure if Sarah would be in town too, or if anyone else would be, so AWKWARD all the way around. Also, Tarr speak is HARD to write- do you mind if I start spelling it normally and just… remember he has the accent?))
 
Tarquin was relieved that it didn’t take much figurative arm twisting to get Luke to agree to help. Unlike Doc, the boy wasn’t unwilling to accept help- he didn’t like needing it, but he would accept it if he had to, and what was offered now was necessity. And it would be quick- when it was over the boy made a sound of relief. The healer hadn’t missed the look towards Will, nor the hesitancy, and when the expected question came, he sighed.
 
“Ach… well, ye have two options. Ye rest eet up an’ keep eet still, two tae three weeks at the least. Ye can, o’course, work eet an’ risk causin’ murr damage, but that ees up tae ye.” His gaze was direct and firm, clearly telling him the better option was the first one. “Afore ye say anythin’ ye might regret, I’ll be savin’ ye some trouble.” The gaze shifted then, not directly on his eyes but not leaving the boy’s face. “I culd use ye tae ‘elp me make tha rounds wi’ tha cuntry folk. I dinnae know ‘ow tae drive a team. Ye will be paid, o’course.” And handsomely at that.
 
“An’ afore ye ask, I dae this ofen enow.” The boy couldn’t think this was pity work, for it wasn’t. He knew the inability to work could make or break a family financially. When this happened, he made excuses to put them on light duty and had a companion most of the day, which was always pleasant. And Luke was an amiable sort, not like some of the men Tarquin had healed in his day. “Think on eet an’ let me ken, aye?”
 
They were nearly to the top of the landing when he felt he needed to correct the boy on his name, though. “Call me Tarquin, aye? ‘Oo cares fur fancy titles?” He didn’t like being called ‘doctor’- never had. Will had grudgingly accepted it, once the initial shock of title and last name combined had passed, but he didn’t like it. “Jus’ makes folks think ye be better’n they be.” A laugh. But Celeste was wrapped up around him now, and he wisely let them have some space.
 
Celeste’s worry visibly began to dissipate when Luke wrapped an arm around her, and she leaned her head on his good shoulder, much as her mother did when her father held her the same way. Like Doc and Galatea, their heights and strides usually matched perfectly, and his shoulder was the perfect height for her to rest her head on. Her hand rested against his chest, taking reassurance in the steady beat. “You’re alright?” Her voice was practically a whisper, blue eyes searching his face. When he brushed his lips over her cheek, she finally managed a smile for him, and when he found her hand she squeezed his fingers with hers.
 
“’E’s fine, lassie.” Tarquin laughed at his niece, tousling the red locks much as Doc might. He considered himself her second father, and loved the girl dearly. “E’ll be good as new in a few weeks.”
 
“A few weeks?” Worried eyes looked at Luke, then. “But… you won’t be able to work.”
 
“I offr’d ‘im work,” her uncle interjected. That steel-blue gaze shot to him, then, and he could clearly see her father in that stunning gaze.
 
“Of course…” she patted the chest under her hand. “He’s always doing that. No one would ever go hungry if the world had more like him.”
 
“And we couldn’t have that!” A laughing voice spoke from the door, and Walker glanced in. He was casually leaning there, legs crossed, eyes watching the small group. He’d seen his sister and daughter breeze into town, Galatea heading for the mercantile, while Celestine had run to Will. He missed his family, though. He’d been giving them space, but he was tired. Tarquin had been letting him sleep in one of the rooms upstairs.
 
“Uncle Walker!” Celeste tore herself from Luke to hug her uncle tightly, and he laughed and held her close.
 
“Hey, now! It hasn’t been so long!” His eyes twinkled merrily. “I’ll just be out of your hair, then. Luke,” he nodded to the boy.
 
“Uncle Walker!” Celeste called him again. “You should come by for dinner.”
 
“Oh, I’m sure your parents would just love that, Lessie.” He winked, before disappearing up the stairs.
 
“Ach, give them time, Lessie.” Tarquin smiled, then looked at the boy when he spoke. “Payment?” His brow was fuddled for a moment, before he chuckled softly. “Ye can pay me by taking that wee lassie out o’the town today.” He indicated Celeste.  “Le’ me know afore ye leave iff’n ye will be alricht wi’ me offer.”
 
---
 
Galatea couldn’t help herself. The splashy red and white mare Luke had brought for Celeste to ride once was tethered, and she paused to give the nose a good stroke, enjoying the feel of the velvet muzzle. She was also cooing to the horse, softly.
 
“Pretty girl…” Ears flicked forward attentively. “You’re such a sweet thing, too, aren’t ya?” She stopped then, with a sigh. “Sorry, pretty girl. I’m afraid I have to get goin’ now.” The woman shaded her eyes against the brightness of the sun with her hand, never using a hat or a parasol, as she would have when she was younger to protect her complexion. It was going to be a hot one- she was glad she’d opted for a pale blue rather than a darker color- and already the sun was high in the sky.
 
A flash of red caught her attention, and Celeste came out leading Luke- who had his arm in a sling. She arched a brow and headed purposefully across the street. If there was new information, Galatea was usually one of the first to get it straight- a perk of being a well-known face in this town. Being Doc’s woman didn’t hurt, either. It was naturally expected that she would know most of the town gossip, being a fixture in the saloons and streets.
 
“Mornin’, Luke, honey.” She flashed a dazzling smile, before concern slid into her eyes. “Oh, lord! Whatever happened to ya?”
 
“He’s fine, Mama.” Celeste was beaming, proud as could be.
 
“Tarquin fixed ya up, then?” She nodded, as if to confirm. “I’m glad to see ya, at any rate. Celestine missed you.” An indulgent smile to her daughter, who petulantly frowned at her mother. “If ya keep that up, baby, your face will get stuck like that.”
 
“Mamaaaa…” she whined it, but it was clear that there was affection there.
 
“I know, I know,” she laughed. “Do stop by and see us before ya leave, Luke.” She sailed by and into the clinic now, and the girl shook her head.
 
“Mama’s nosy sometimes. She does it out of a good heart, but she’s nosy.” She shrugged. “But if you’re ever curious about something, ask her. She knows everything about everyone in this town.” But that was her business- information, and trouble, indirectly. They went hand in hand. This habit and ability had never been curbed by Doc- it was as useful to him as it was her- and he rather enjoyed watching her wheedle and cajole information, as much as she enjoyed watching him play poker. Every toss of her head, sway of her hips, or smile was designed to maximize the effect she wanted.
 
To a lesser degree, Celestine had developed the same abilities. She was much more subdued, but she still had the moves.
 
The girl chuckled as she snuggled his good arm back against her chest. “Enough about that… where do you want to go? The day’s ours.” No work, no pressing matters. Just relaxation was the order of the day.

[Doc_Holliday]

He nodded, clearly appreciative of the man and his assistance, and was carefully considering the two options laid out in front of him. He didn't want to cause more damage because that could potentially come back and haunt him in the future, but he was not in the habit of thinking too far ahead. He would rest as long as he was able or could tolerate. He hadn't expected anything more than the two direct instructions on how to heal up his shoulder, so when Tarquin continued, his gaze snapped back up to meet his ice blue eyes. He looked curious, a slight smile twitching at his mouth, but there was hesitancy as well. What was the doctor leading up to? Especially now that he broken eye contact with the boy.

Without realizing it, he quirked a brow at the offer for work, and he must have noticed for me was quick to reassure him that this was a common practice of his, and Luke had indeed heard of people doing light work for the town doctor after having paid him a visit. "I can drive a team..." he spoke, offering his tentative acceptance of the offer in the moment. He didn't take kindly to being seen as a charity case, but it was clear that these were not the doctor's intentions. He signified his agreement to think on it and let him know with a nod and a smile. He hadn't had time to respond to the doctor's request to just be called by his first name, but he made a mental note to remember this for later. He probably wouldn't be comfortable with it, but since he had in plain words asked him to, he would comply.

Now though he was content with having Celeste lean on his shoulder - his good one, of course - and he was happy to see her smile once more.

"Yes," he reassured her one last time, and flashed Tarquin a grateful smile when he had back-up from the doctor. "See?" He laughed, pulling her in tighter briefly for a gentle hug. "I've survived plenty worse." The work was an area of concern for him though, but once again, Tarquin spoke up and explained his offer to the boy. He was proud but also not a fool. He would most likely not refuse a job when he never knew when another might come along. Usually he didn't have that problem. There was always someone that needed something done, but as he was unable to work much physically for awhile, this was a tempting arrangement. He still hesitated, skeptical of whether or not it was a thinly veiled attempt at a handout, but he had never been given reason to suspect pity from the man. Not only that, but it would mean he would be around the likable Irishman more often, this of course meaning he would see a lot more of Celeste. He was nearly fully convinced, now.

A voice came from the doorway, Celeste's uncle having just arrived and giving his greetings to the group in the clinic. Luke returned the nod, stepping back a bit as Celeste darted over to him for an embrace. He couldn't help but smile whenever he saw the interactions between the close-knit family. Celeste was obviously loyal and loved them all very much. She seemed to be one of the main ties that kept the family together, inviting her uncle to dinner back home.

He took the opportunity to turn his dark brown gaze back onto Tarquin then, first thinking over his terms of payment in his head. He glanced over towards Celeste and gave the doctor a confused smile. "I would do that anyway Doctor - Tarquin," he corrected himself and felt odd doing it, just as he had expected he would. "I cannot accept your services for nothing," he repeated, meeting the man's gaze evenly for a brief moment before dropping it to look at his boots. "But I would like to accept your offer, sir," he said, falling back into his habitual term of address for an employer. He looked up again then, smiling and offering his hand in a gesture of agreement and acceptance.

Celeste had rejoined him then, Walker having vanished up the stairs to rest. Luke lead the way outside back into the bright sun, standing near Celeste and both taking a few moments to blink and let their eyes adjust before heading down the street. His sharp eyes were quick to spot Galatea standing over by Cleo, the little mare clearly enjoying the interaction with the woman. Galatea spied him and her daughter as well, changing her course of direction to instead come over and speak with them.

"Morning, Tea, ma'am," he responded smoothly when she greeted him, but her eyes fell to his arm that was currently in a sling and he grimaced. There were few things he hated more than being pitied, attention being drawn to a weakness being one of them. So much so that he was already planning on carefully removing his arm from the sling as soon as the pair and Tea parted ways. "It's stupid," he admitted with a laugh when she asked him what happened to him, again scratching the back of his head with his free hand and looking overall rather embarrassed. "A young steer broke from the herd," he explained, trying to cut to the most essential points only and get the story over as quickly as possible. He shifted his attention back and forth between Galatea and Celeste, since she didn't know either. "I roped him but somehow he pulled me off and dislocated my shoulder." He ended with a confused expression, brow furrowed and looking lost in thought as if trying to determine himself how it had happened. He had never had a steer run like that, effectively yanking him straight to the ground with him. He gave a half-hearted shrug, unable to give the full effect of the gesture with his arm in a sling, but it got his point across.

He nudged her playfully when her mother revealed that he had been missed, but didn't tease her further. She left them now, breezing away effortlessly towards the clinic and requesting that Luke see them again before he leaves. "Yes, ma'am," he promised. His gaze flickered back over to her and watched her retreating image, going over in his mind what Celeste had said about her knowing everything about everyone. "I'm sure that comes in handy," he said with a laugh, but he couldn't help but wonder if she knew all there was to know about his own family. She couldn't possibly. They weren't really that involved in the town, the rural community keeping mostly to themselves. Out there, everyone did pretty much know everything about everyone, but their business usually did not reach or affect the larger city that he was spending more and more time in now. It had also been so long ago. Luke kept to himself, only speaking to those he needed to, and didn't draw attention to himself. That and the sheer genetic luck that he was blessed with skin that could pass for just being tanned made him more acceptable and "invisible" to the townsfolk as a whole.

He looked back to Celeste, a smile in place. As she spoke, he skillfully maneuvered his arm without moving his shoulder too much and took it out of the sling, taking the cloth and putting in his pocket in case he needed it later. "I don't know," he admitted sheepishly. Days of leisure were few and far between for him. He didn't really know what to do with himself. That wouldn't stop him from enjoying the afternoon with Celeste though, and the pair walked side by side through the bustling streets. They didn't even concern themselves with navigating the crowd, weaving in and out of them as if they had somewhere to be. He was content to go with the pace that was already set, his usual antsyness at being idle quelled by Celeste's presence.

A loud sound erupted just a few steps ahead of them, and the crowd of people jumped back and away from a group of men that had violently tumbled out through the saloon doors. Luke took Celeste by the shoulders instinctively and pulled her closer against him, stopping short of the conflict unfolding in front of them now. The former occupants of the saloon were currently busying themselves with shoving a pair of Indian traders out of the establishment, helping them well into the street and encouraging them to be on their way, in less polite terms.

"You're not welcome here," one of them spat, finally taking his hands off of the man he was pushing and backing away. He pointed down the street to visually emphasize his point. "You know that." They did know. Everyone knew Indians were not typically welcome in town. Luke watched intently, never getting involved in conflicts and successfully staying off of everyone's "Indian radar". Being only half, he was not very obviously native unless one knew and could look for subtle tell-tale signs. Even that was no guarantee of his heritage, as both his father and mother were white and respectable, hard working citizens of the community. He simply had a darker complexion, as many laborers did. That was acceptable, and he had never given anyone reason to suspect anything otherwise. Those few people that did know were friends enough to never utter a word, often enjoying a joke about it at the expense of the townspeople that liked Luke and his good old fashioned work ethic so much.

The men in front of them looked angry but too weary and beat down to put up a fight, and they turned their backs to a string of obscenities hurled at them. Luke cringed behind Celeste. These men were Cheyenne, like his mother, and like many of their kind nowadays held a transitional appearance, caught between Indian and white. They looked more modern than traditional Indians, wearing clothing more typical of a cowboy or farmer than of their tribe, but still lived away from "civilized society", on the plains. Their long dark hair fell down their backs in length that clearly marked them for who they really were. Both men hesitated and looked at Cleo as they passed, the Indian pony being a familiar sight to them, but not in town. They turned to scan the crowd, looking for its owner. Luke ducked his head at the exact moment their eyes passed over him, so no one immediately stood out to them. He could never be sure which individuals were accepting of half breeds such as himself and which were not. He did not fit in fully with either side of his parents' families. As the crowd lost interest and dissipated, they did as well, and they turned and continued on their way, mounting their own horses to ride back to where they had come from. Their ventures into town were hardly ever successful, and each failed attempt caused more tension and promise of a larger conflict in the near future. Luke watched them until they were almost out of sight, nearly taking a step forward after them, thoughts racing about how different his life could have been, and also feeling incredibly guilty that he could get away with walking among people normally that would hate him if only they knew, and the men who had just been violently kicked out of a saloon could not.

"Hmm," he finally mused out loud as if he also didn't quite understand what had just happened. He wanted to break the silence between himself and Celeste anyway. He smiled at her, returning to his normal, happy exterior and spun her around so that she was facing him instead of away. "Where do you want to go," he repeated, stressing the 'you', and completely skipping over the event that they had just witnessed. He resumed walking with her, her arm linked through his casually to signify that they traveled together. He had asked only to change the subject and wasn't particularly waiting on an answer if she didn't want to provide one, content to simply wander the streets of the town with her for now. They once again walked past the general store, and he laughed softly, remembering something he had been tasked to do.

He gestured to the store, grinning. "I still have to go there before I leave. Eliza was promised some penny candy weeks ago," he said, laughing but appreciating her patience. "She'll be crushed if she finds out I was here and didn't bring her any." Since Cleo stood nearly right in front of it, he would be sure to remember it before he left. "She still talks about you," he added. "Thinks you're way more exciting than me or her sister." His voice was light and full of humor when he said this, his youngest sister almost desperate to see and play with Celeste again.

[Galatea]

 
((Celeste is cute! Missyu, hop on in here any time! Also, Kazeeeeee… what WILL Doc have to say when he finds out Luke’s half-Cheyenne?))
 
She snuggled close gratefully, nosing into his neck to quiet and calm, and he tightened his grip on her. Still, she laughed when he looked back at her uncle, and merrily shook her head. “Uncle Tarr’s pulling your chain. He means he’ll deduct it from your pay.” She laughed, brushing her hand down his chest lightly.
 
“Aye, she’s right.” He chuckled softly. “For now, enjoy the day. As for meself, I’ll be sorting out what we need for tomorrow.” He paused, then. “And if ye see Will, send him back over, will ye? His files are all a mess.”
 
“Yes, Uncle Tarr.” Celestine pecked him on the cheek before heading out. Her mother’s gaze was sharp, though, and she fussed over Luke as she would anybody before winking and heading across the street.
 
---
 
Tarquin looked up as the redhead entered, and smiled. She was wearing a gown that was reminiscent of her gunslinger’s eyes, and the material was light enough to make the heat bearable. Her sharp green gaze met his, and her smile was kittenish- which meant she was up to something. He quirked a brow.
 
“Tarr, dear. I have a wonder… if ya will indulge me.” Her voice was mockingly sweet, and she swayed her hips playfully, causing the healer to actually have to swallow. She knew how to get anyone’s attention, family or not.
 
“Uhm…”
 
“Oh, kitten, you’re too adorable!” She cooed.
 
“If I get shot for this…”
 
“I’ll protect ya, don’t worry.” She laughed, nudging him with her hip playfully. “Luke…?”
 
“What about him?” Tarquin blinked.
 
“He’s a good kid. Nice kid.” She quirked a brow. “Fits in nicely, doesn’t he?”
 
“Aye, I like the lad.” He met her gaze directly. “No need to beat around the bush.”
 
“He’s mixed, isn’t he?” Before Tarquin could blink, she took his face in both hands. “And before ya deny it, remember Liza-girl.”
 
“Aye.” He sighed. “One o’ the lucky ones. Doesn’t look it.”
 
“Not unless you know what to look for.” She murmured it softly.
 
“But ye did.” He met her gaze again. “Ye don’t seem to mind.”
 
“Why would I mind? He’s street-wise, polite, treats my girl right.” She shrugged. “Never had a problem with the red men, just the white ones. Ya leave them alone and treat ‘em with respect, they return the favor.” She shrugged.
 
“Only ye would be so calm,” he shook his head in bewilderment.
 
“We all bleed red, kitten.”
 
---
 
She frowned when he removed his arm from the sling. “My uncle put that on you for a reason,” she muttered, but before she could get much further, there was a ruckus two doors down, and a group of men came barging through the wide, swinging saloon doors. Their focus was directed at two tall, bronze-skinned men, and Celeste had her first real look at Indians. They didn’t look that different, apart from their long, dark hair that fell to their shoulders in a cascade of black silk, and high cheekbones, emphasized by the leanness of their frames. And their skin color! It was more bronze than red, really. If it weren’t for the hair and skin, she would have thought they were White from their clothing.
 
Her blue eyes went wide, though, and her back went stiff. “That’s horrible!” Her voice made her distaste for the treatment quite clear. “Someone should stop them!” She looked almost pleadingly at Luke, and at the string of cursing she glared directly at the entire group- chief among them being one of her own past beau’s. He gave her a haughty smirk, before wilting under that blue gaze that had clearly come from her father’s side, and she turned up her nose at him like the skat that he was, instead looking after the two misused men who were retreating. She caught them looking at Cleo- which made sense, Luke had said she was an Indian pony and she wondered if they might be from the same tribe who had given the boy the pretty mare- before their sharp gazes searched the faces of those around. The eyes were such a dark brown that they looked almost black, and she blushed as she felt their gazes slide over her. She was both ashamed she’d been
caught staring, and curious about why they were so hated. She didn’t see a difference between them and the others, save for the color of their skin.
 
Across the street, her mother had come out to see the commotion as well, and her sharp green gaze was nearly as flinty as her daughters. Her mouth was set in a little frown, too, and she shook her head almost sadly. There was tension there, on both sides. But her pity was for those who were being mistreated so. Just look at her own family- Essie was loved as dearly as her own mother had been- and yet, she was dark-skinned. She watched them leave sadly, but did not miss their hesitation when their eyes fell on the little paint mare Luke was so fond of. She nodded politely when their eyes passed quickly over her, resuming her cigarette before tossing it to the ground at her feet, grinding it into the dust with the toe of her shoe before going back inside- but not without that look of distaste being swung over to the saloon.
 
Luke had shifted slightly, as if he were about to follow, but stopped- spinning her to face him. She raised a brow, before leaning in closer, brushing back one hank of glossy dark hair from his forehead. She LOVED his hair- the color, the texture, the way those bluish highlights came out to play sometimes when the light hit it the correct way. No, she had not missed the movement, and no, he wasn’t going to just get out of it without some explanation. “What was that all about?” She murmured it. “Are you thinking of leaving me to go adventure with them?” She teased it, before sobering.
 
“They didn’t look like they wanted any trouble,” she murmured. “I don’t understand it.” She had seen the looks and heard the snide comments about Miss Essie, too- didn’t care for them, and would set people straight when she caught them at it. “People are the same, no matter what. Good, bad, indifferent.” A pretty shrug of those dainty shoulders accompanied her words. “They don’t like Miss Essie either, though.” And that was sad. Essie loved Mama like she was one of her own, and she had room enough to love her father, and uncles, and aunt, and even herself, Will, and Annie.
 
But enough about that.
 
She had Luke all to herself today! Or, for now. She would have to bring him by the house of course- her mother would insist. When he spoke, she smiled and tugged at his hand playfully. “Then we should get her some!” She laughed merrily, pulling him into the mercantile with her, gently though. “I’ll have to ride out with you sometime this week to visit with her,” she smiled. “She’s adorable.”
 
---
 
They caught up to Will after getting Eliza her treats, the young doctor frowning slightly but not commenting. The two younger ones headed towards home for a late lunch, where they came upon a slightly less-typical scene. This time Galatea was on the porch itself, while Essie ran a brush through her long scarlet locks. The redhead who usually spurned fingers in her hair was enjoying herself, though- Tarquin’s voice was floating out of the house, and the big tabby cat was cuddled up in the bench next to the dark-skinned Essie.
 
“Oh! Luke, you remember that stray? His name is Bruin, and Mama’s keeping him.” She knew he wouldn’t mind the cat, though. Her Uncle breezed outside, then, looking at the cat in a pool of sunshine.
 
“You lazy beast.”
 
‘Like that is a bad thing you are saying?’ The cat cracked open an eye, balefully.
 
“Bruinnnn,” Celeste trilled, and the cat hopped over obligingly. He loved pets, and shamelessly settled himself against the girl when she scooped him up, purring happily. The feline looked healthier now, and content. “Say hello to Luke.” She offered the boy a good look at the face, with its definite tabby striping.
 
“Luke, I assume ye are staying for lunch?” He didn’t comment on the arm, not at all, and chuckled as he looked at Tea, “Where’s that man o’ yours?”
 
“I don’t keep him on a leash, kitten,” she sniffed with a sigh. “I doubt he’s still in bed.” She cracked open an eye. “Lessie, have ya seen your Daddy today?”
 
“Not since breakfast,” she shook her head.
 
“There, see?” The mother sighed. “Oh, Mama Essie, you are superb with that brush.” Her gaze shifted to Luke, then. “Afternoon. We’ll feed ya before ya head on home.”