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Love Rides a Chestnut Horse Ch. 01

By: tigrlily320



It was late morning when she stood in the store, talking with the locals. Since the death of her father weeks ago, Isabella had struggled to keep the family ranch going, but was nearly ready to admit defeat. So that morning, she had ridden into town in a form-hugging dress with a long, full skirt and bonnet. As she stood there, she pondered over the changes that had come about in her life. She spoke with the shop owner about any local boys who may be willing to come work for her, knowing all the while that few young men would agree to work for a woman.

As they discussed this, the sound of hooves echoed outside as a stranger came trotting up. The big muscular chestnut walked up to the tie rail without urging. A man wearing brown pants and a denim shirt slid off and pulled off his hat. He ran a sun bronzed hand over his equally bronzed face and looked around, eventually glancing through the window into the store. Isabella glanced up and found herself staring as he stretched and pulled his hat back on, walking up the steps. He carefully dusted himself off before walking inside and looking around. She took in his build. He was muscular, and stood at around six foot two with deep hazel eyes and shining red hair.

He walked across the small shop, greeting the owner. Bella smiled shyly at him, feeling her heart flutter in her chest. He spoke with a deep, sure voice and a definite, lilting southern drawl.

"Good afternoon," he smiled as he made his way over to the counter. As he passed, he smiled politely at Isabella, tipping his hat as he greeted her with a "Ma'am." He looked back to the girl behind the counter. "I'm looking for work, but I don't need a lot of pay. As a matter of fact, I'd work for room and board for the right job."

Shannon's eyes widened and she glanced at her Daddy coming up behind her. Few in this sleepy little town would trust a stranger, though at one point they were all strangers themselves. She glanced at Isabella and subtly began to shake her head. But before Shannon's father could speak, Isabella heard her own voice.

"Well," she spoke softly, not yet making eye contact. The man looked at her as she began to talk, quickly removing his hat. "I could use a hand running our ranch. My father used to take care of everything," she paused, a ghost of a smile on her lips, "but he's not around now. It's a big old house, and there are plenty of empty rooms." She blushed, looked down. "I mean, if you want. I just can't do it all myself."

He gave a sympathetic smile, "sounds like it's a lot of work. You'll need help with it, especially now that summer's here. 

She nodded. "Yes," she stated, looking up at him for the first time. He was shocked at the depth of her green eyes. There was innocence in them, yet also a sense of having seen too much already in life. 

He cleared his throat. "If you'll have me, I'd be happy to work for you." 

She smiled gratefully, and he was taken aback at how it lit up her whole face. She ignored the narrowed eyes and disapproving glances of the store's owner and patrons. "That's wonderful. If you'd like to ride home with me now, I'd be happy to take you there."

He smiled back. "Sure, my name's James by the way." He offered her his hand. She smiled as she took it, her still soft skin meeting his that was work-roughened. 

"Isabella," she stated softly, yet confidently.

"Pleasure to meet you Isabella," he smiled down at her. "I'm ready whenever you are."

She smiled back up at him. "OK. Follow me then. Mr. Davis, Shannon, I'm sure I'll be seeing you soon."

She waved pleasantly at the other townsfolk whispering in the store and headed out into the hot sun. The fact that Isabella Murphy had taken a man into her home to live would spread through the town before lunchtime was upon it. He turned to follow her, unable to help noticing how pretty she was. She walked out to a large black stallion, rubbing his flank gently. As she unhooked his reigns from the pole, James swung back up onto the chestnut. He glanced over at her and then back inside. 

"People gossip too much don't they, Miss Isabella?" Smiling, he steered the horse out into the street.

She looked up at him and smiled back. "They sure do, James."

She easily climbed up onto the strong black horse. "Ready?"

"When you are," he smiled as he trotted up next to her.

"Alright, then we'd best get home." 

She nudged the horse into a trot, heading off down the road. As he moved along next to her, he struck up a simple conversation, watching her easy way with the horse. 

"How much livestock do you have?"

She tilted her head to the side, thinking about the question, "We have a small herd, but they're good animals." 

"If you're not sure, it's fine. I can ride out and do a count either this afternoon or first thing tomorrow morning."

She blushed, embarrassed to not know everything she should about her own ranch. She smiled at him even still as she nodded. "Tomorrow will be fine. I took care of the work this morning." 

He nodded, the simple act assuring her that he did not think her incompetent due to her lack of knowledge. "So, it's just you by yourself out here?"

She nodded, a sad smile gracing her lips. "Yes. Well, it used to be just me and Daddy. He didn't like a lot of outsiders 'mixing in his business.'"

"You must be one special gal to keep it going all alone." He spoke softly, but with great respect as he glanced over at her. 

"Well, it's only been just a few weeks since Daddy died. It didn't take me long to admit defeat," she returned the glance with a rueful smile.

"I'm so sorry." And he was. He was surprised to feel so protective of this small creature. But he already knew he didn't want to allow anything further to happen to her. 

She looked to him, surprised at the sincerity in his voice. "Thanks."

He nodded. "Is that it?" He pointed to a large two story house with several large barns around it about 2 or 3 miles away

She smiled, looking at her home fondly. "That's the one."

"Looks like a nice place Miss Isabella. I'm surprised you don't have a line of beaus after you."

She laughed, and he smiled. It sounded like a bell ringing to his ears. "Oh, daddy used to scare them all away when he was here. Now that he's gone, none of them will come near me still."

"Lucky me," he I said, grinning. His face suddenly registered shock at his own forwardness. He looked contrite, until he heard her whispered response.

"Perhaps." 

He smiled back over at her as they turned down the main drive.

"Race you there!" She called back over her shoulder as she took off, her long skirt flying out behind the horse. 

He carefully nudged the chestnut, and they flew down the drive, slowly catching up to her. He leaned down over the horse's neck and clucked to him. Surging past the big black stallion, he pulled further away with every stride. He eventually slid to a dusty stop at the front porch and she rode up next to him. 

She grinned up at him as she slid down off the horse. "OK, fine. You win this time."

He slid off of his as well, winking at her. "I'll give you a rematch any day. Do you want me to take them to the barn?"

"That would be great. I'll just head in and get a room ready for you."

As he took the reigns from her, his work roughened hand brushes hers for a moment, pausing at the shiver that ran through him. He then turned and walked toward the barn with the two horses. 

She stood still for a moment, watching him walk away. She had felt the electricity in the touch as well. She took a deep breath and then slowly turned and headed up the front steps. 

In the stable, James quickly got the horses unsaddled and groomed. He spoke softly to them as he worked, both seeming to respond well to his careful tone. After tossing them both hay, he grabbed his pack and headed back to the house, where he knocked on the front door. As he knocked, the door opened, not having been latched all the way. 

He stepped carefully inside the door. "Miss Isabella?"

She appeared at the top of the stairs, bonnet removed. Her long, curly, blonde hair spilled loosely down her back. 

"Oh my, but you're fast! Come on up and I'll show you your room."

He headed up the stairs, the big pack slung easily over his shoulder. Watching her, he turned into the room that he had seen her disappear into. He looked around to find a large four poster bed in the corner and a simple dresser and desk on the other side. 

She shifted nervously. "I hope this is ok."

"It's wonderful. Much better than anything I've ever had." He gave her a genuine smile, and she ducked her head, blushing. 

"Well, I'll let you get settled then." She turned to leave.

He set the pack on the floor and stooped to unpack it. He threw a glance over his shoulder, unable to get enough of her smile already. She walked softly out of his room, heading down the hall to her own. After she left, he unpacked the bag quickly. He took off his dusty jeans, changing into some clean pants before stripping off his shirt, revealing a muscled upper body. As he settled into his new environment, he looked around, but didn't notice that the door wasn't latched.

In her own room, Isabella rid herself of off the binding clothes she wore into town. As it was such a warm day, she left her undershirt and corset on alone, her supple breasts nearly spilling from the top. From her wardrobe she pulled a much lighter skirt and slipped it on. Brushing her long hair one last time, she wandered back out of her room and down the hall. As she walked past the open door to James's room, she saw him stretching his arms to the ceiling, exposing all of his chest and stomach. She paused, watching him as he pulled a shirt out of a drawer and slid his arms into it. She caught herself staring, and attempted to hurry away but bumped the door and attracted his attention. Upon hearing the noise, he turned toward the door and began to button the shirt. She met his questioning eyes with her own, wide and innocent.

"I'm so sorry," she whispered.

He paused, smiling. "It's fine. It's my fault for not closing the door." He finished buttoning the shirt quickly and walked out into the hall to join her. Her face was still flushed a deep red.

"I didn't mean to stare."

He gently touched her arm. "It's ok, we're not in town anymore. You don't have to be prim, proper, and perfect." He smiled a sardonic grin as he started to walk downstairs. 

She stopped, taken aback. Grinning at him, she replied. "How do you know that's not just who I am?"

He looked over his shoulder at her. "Call it a gut feeling." 

She laughed softly at his intuition and candor as they reached the bottom of the stairs. She moved around him and began to head for the kitchen.

"Can I help you fix dinner Ma'am?

"No, there's no need for that, I can take care of it. Thank you, but you make yourself at home. And please, just call me Isabella."

"Yes ma'...." he smiled as she glared at him. "Alright, Isabella," he laughed.

Laughing in her bell-like tones, she headed into the kitchen. He watched her go for a moment and then began walking down into the main house, tentatively looking around. He saw a portrait of a beautiful woman holding a child, who he assumed to be Isabella's mother. He could see the resemblance in her kind eyes and shy smile. There were more, smaller portraits of Isabella as a child, and several of a distinguished looking man who was surely her father. He smiled as he looked around at their family and then paused for a moment to realize they must all be gone. They had all left her alone. He again felt the surge of need to protect her, baffled at its origin. 

Shaking his head, he walked quietly into the kitchen. "Well, can I at least keep you company? I've been out on the trail for a week or so now with no one but Leo to talk to, so it's really nice to have a person around"

She smiled. "Of course you can. I'm afraid it's not very exciting out here though. Why don't you tell me where you've come from?" She began to quickly peel potatoes and place them in a large pot. 

"Well, as you might could tell, I'm originally from down south. I've slowly made my way west over the last few years."

She nodded, deep in thought as she listened. "So what brought you to this sleepy little place?"

He shrugged his shoulders. "I'm not sure. After the war, I didn't feel like staying where I was, so I just pointed myself west. I guess now here I am." He laughed as he smiled at her, "I'm glad I stopped though."

She turned slowly, setting down the knife and the potato on the counter. "Are you?"

He nodded. She raised an eyebrow questioningly. "Why?

He tilted his head slightly. "Well, because it looks like you need some help? There are people in this world who would just take advantage, and you're too sweet to allow something like that to happen to."

She raised an eyebrow, smiling. "But you don't even know me."

"I like to think I'm a good judge of character."

"Thank you," she flushed a bright pink and looked down.

"You're very welcome."

Isabella laughed, "God look at me, you're probably starving and here I am wasting time. I should really get cooking." She fumbled on the counter for her utensils. 

"What are we having?"

"I've got some steaks that just came back from the butcher and potatoes, if that's ok. I should have some tomato and onion in the icebox as well."

He smiled, noticing how flustered she was. "That sounds excellent."

Her face was still flushed as she clumsily began peeling again. "That's good, I'm gl..." Her voice cut off with a gasp as she dropped the knife. He leapt from his seat and was at her side in an instant. 

"Are you ok?" He reached down and picked up the knife.

She laughed shakily. "Oh, it's fine the knife just slipped. I'm fine." She held up her hand, showing a small cut on her finger. "You must think I'm such a baby."

He took her hand gently in his own, pouring some water over it before finding a clean cloth to wrap it up. He carefully guided her to a chair and sat her down. "I can peel the rest of them."

She stared at her hand as if it were a foreign object, feeling it tingle not where it was cut, but where his hand had held it. She shook herself from her daze, and replied. "You don't have to do that, I'm fine."

She watched as he walked back over to the sink, quickly rolling up both sleeves, revealing tanned muscular arms. He began to work on peeling them and looked back over at her. "I'm happy to." He put the peeled potatoes in a bowl.

"My, you are a really fast worker."

He smiled in her direction. "Lots of practice, I assure you." 

As he turned back to his work, she allowed her eyes to scan over his body. She blushed and chastised herself, just before he turned to her, drying his hands on a towel. "What else?"

She stood, shaking her head. "Oh no you don't, you've done plenty already. Sit down."

He grinned, "yes ma'am." As he slipped past her on his way to the chair, his hand brushed against hers and she gasped softly. He stopped for a moment, looking into her eyes. He paused mentally to wonder at the shiver that passed through his body every time they touched. They looked into each other's eyes for a moment until he broke the gaze.

"Did I...um... hit your cut?"

She shook her head. "No. No, it's fine." She smiled, shaking off the feeling, but the blush began to creep up her cheeks. 

He sat in her vacated chair. "You're blushing," he smiled.

"I... I know." She turned her back to him, composing herself while she placed the potatoes on the stove, and the steaks in the oven. 

He watched her, concerned. "Did I say something?"

Isabella shook her head quickly. "No, it's nothing."

"Is there anything else I can help with?" He moved again to her side, feeling her tense as he approached. "I'm sorry, did I frighten you?"

She shooks her head again. "No." She muttered, "quite the opposite actually."

He smiled down into her eyes. "And what would be the opposite of frighten?"

"You... excite me." She blushed the deepest red he'd seen yet.

He took a step closer to her, his voice dropping. "Do I? How so?"

She quickly took a step back, her eyes widening. "No, I can't!" She looked down almost as if she were ashamed.

"I'm sorry, that was out of line." He stepped back, moving away from her. He berated himself for acting like an idiot and mumbled that he was going to go check on the horses. He stepped further away, moving to walk outside. As he did, she reached out and grabbed his arm. 

"Please don't leave."

He turned back toward her slowly, looking down into her eyes. She met them and tried to explain. "I've never..." her voice trailed off.

"It's ok. I'm going to be around for awhile, you have all the time in the world to tell me."

As he went to move away from her again, she reached up, pulling his head down to hers and kissing his mouth hungrily. 

A deep moan came from his throat, as he wrapped her in his arms and pulled her closer. His tongue hesitantly played with hers, awaiting the reaction. His fingers trailed in her shining blonde hair and he pulled her closer still. She softly moaned into his mouth, tentatively pressing her tongue against his. His hands explored her body, unable to get enough. He kissed her again and again, passion and hunger increasing with each kiss. She relaxed in his arms, her head back. Her body pressed against his. 

When he finally broke the kiss, he stared deep into her eyes. "I want you," he mumbled, his voice barely a hoarse whisper

She softly moaned and nodded. "But I'm... I mean, I've never..."

"It's ok... I can wait."

She shook her head almost violently. "No, I don't want to."

He nodded, sweeping her up off her feet and walking to the stairs. "I'll go slow."

He carried her up the stairs to her room, gently laying her on the bed. She stared up at him, completely trusting, as he pushed off his boots and pulled off his shirt. His smile was reassuring as he climbs onto the bed, moving over her. He carefully leaned down, kissing her lips gently. He brought his hand up to stroke her face as he looks into her eyes. He slowly worked to undo the corset and pulled it off, tossing it aside. He then struggled with removing her top, trying hard not to tear the delicate material. 

She smiled at his intent and whispered, "I have more."

At this, he smiled, reaching down and tearing it away easily. Watching her eyes, he slowly lowered his mouth to her hard pink nipple. He sucked it gently between his lips, rolling his tongue back and forth across it. Her eyes closed, her body arched as she moaned louder than before. Not lifting his mouth, he ran his hands down her body, pulling off the remainder of her clothes. Kissing his way back up her legs, he moved slowly, looking up over her body to watch her reaction. Her body shivered in fear and anticipation as he reached the warm wetness between her legs. He slowly and gently licked her lips from top to bottom, enjoying the whimpers and gasps she made. Isabella's eyes closed in pleasure as he licked around her soaking wet clit, sucking it into his mouth, then holding it between his teeth and teasing it with his tongue. 

He pulled his mouth away and looks up at her tenderly. "Are you ready?" 

Her breathing heavy, she nodded her head. "I am. Please."

He lifted himself off of her, slowly removing his pants. In doing so, he revealed his seven hard thick inches. Isabella found herself unable to tear her eyes from it as he moved up and pressed the head against her soft, wet entrance. As he heard her gasp, he eased the head inside, spreading her open for him. Her eyes widened, breathing increased, and he slowed, pulling back out a little. 

Isabella let out a whimper, and shook her head. "Don't stop," she whispered. 

Watching her eyes, he pushed in a little further, going slowly, terrified he might hurt her. He gently eased himself in deeper and deeper, stretching her with every inch. As she felt herself opening to him in her most private of places, she cried out, leaning her head back. He paused just a moment to let her adjust, and she pled with him to continue. His eyes never left hers as he worked the rest of his member inside her passage, leaning down to kiss her gently. Her moan filled his mouth as she stretched inside to accommodate him. It seemed forever before he finally rested on top of her, buried completely inside. He held her close, kissing her, touching her as her body shuddered, getting used to being filled. He could feel now her wetness enclosing him and began to ease himself in and out, staring into her eyes. She cried out, eyes wild as he began to slowly pump into her. He kissed her with deep passion, pushing deeper, pumping faster with each thrust until he felt her explode around him. Her body shuddered as she clung to him. Her contractions caused him to tense and explode within her. He called her name over and over as he climaxed inside her. When it finally ended, they lay there, clinging to one another, shuddering still. James pushed himself up on his elbows, hovering over her. He leaned down to kiss her gently once again. 


Love Rides a Chestnut Horse Ch. 01



"Isabella, I've – never felt like this. Not with anyone."

She slowly shakes her head. Smiling softly up at him, she whispered, "me either."

Gently he lifted his hips slowly, easing himself out and rolling over on his side. He pulled her close and looked deep into her eyes. 

"Are you ok?" His concern was apparent in the way he examined her face. 

She laughed softly, kissing his lips. "I'm more than ok." 

She laid her head gently on his chest, sliding her arms around his waist. He wrapped his tightly around them after covering her naked back with the sheet. He placed a gentle kiss on her forehead, sighing happily. A glance toward the window showed him that day was quickly fading to night. He heard her breathing even out as she fell asleep on his chest, soon following her. As they slept, his arms never released the tight hold they had on her angelic form.



Love Rides a Chestnut Horse Ch. 02



The next morning he woke before dawn and gently slipped from the bed without waking her. He lovingly tucked her back in and quickly dressing walked outside to start the mornings work. She awoke a few moments later, noticing his absence. As she stretched the sleepiness away, she looked around for signs of him, afraid he was gone. As her panic reached a high level, she heard the screen door slam at the back of the house, and sighed in relief. She rose from the bed and slipped into a sleeveless nightdress, brushed her long hair, and padded down the stairs to the kitchen. As she entered, she saw him washing up at the kitchen sink. She walked up behind him and slid her arms around his waist.

He smiled, looking back over his shoulder. "Good morning, beautiful."

"You know, you didn't have to do it all yourself," she scolded.

He bent his head down, kissed her cheek. "I don't mind, I'm sure you were tired and needed some rest. How about some breakfast? You know, since we never got around to dinner last night?"

She released a girlish giggle. "Of course, I'll make you some."

He shook his head. "No, WE will make some for US." He walked over and leaned against the counter next to her. She moved away to the icebox to get the eggs and some bacon. He watched as she moved, transfixed by her.

"Isabella, I know it's still so early and maybe I shouldn't say this so soon....."

A blush lit up her cheeks, and she looked at the floor quickly. But then she slowly brought her eyes back up to meet his. He waited until they were making eye contact.

"I love you."

Her gasp was small, but her blush got deeper still. She smiled. "I feel the same. I just... can't believe it."

He pulled her small form into his arms and held her tight. Her arms snaked carefully around his waist. They stayed there for a moment, until she attempted to pull away, ready to go make breakfast. However, as she pulled away, he pulled her back, picking her up easily and kissing her passionately. His fingers trailed through her long hair, her legs wrapped tightly around his waist. His hands slid down to support her bottom as the kiss deepened.

He smiled against her lips. "Does someone feel mischievous again already?"

The giggle bubbled up from her throat and she smiled back. "Maybe?"

At her response, he reached down and unbuttoned his work jeans and lifted her cotton nightdress. Pushing inside her slowly, he felt her open for him once again. This time, he could push all of him inside of her in one quick, strong thrust, and adored the guttural moan that came bursting from her throat. He could tell that this time, her body was reacting even more violently than it had the previous night. He bounced her up and down, thrusting into her over and over. She closed her eyes and cried out, feeling him pressing deep inside her. She leaned in and kissed him hard, and felt him he return it with equal force. Their intensity continued to build and build, and they stared deeply into one another's eyes until they both exploded in climax. They kissed desperately as their bodies shook together. As it ended, he stumbled from the kitchen, into the living room, where he fell back on the couch with her above him.

He reached up, brushing her hair back and stroking her face gently. "If we keep this up we're going to be using another room in about 9 months," he smiled, his breathing still heavy. 

Isabella tilted her head, looking into his eyes. "I've always wanted a baby."

He pulled her down to him, kissing her lips gently, soft, slipping from inside her and holding her to him. She curled atop him and turned her face into his chest. 

"Where did you really come from, James?"

"I told you, baby," his hand moved idly on her back. 

She shook her head. "Can't be coincidence. You had to have been sent here." Her voice was barely a whisper as she places a light kiss on his smooth skin. 

"I'm really glad I stopped at the store yesterday."

"So am I," she smiled. "Even if the neighbors are still talking about it."

He brushed a finger idly across her nipple as he looked up at her, watching her smile grow. "I suppose we should eat something eventually, we're going to need our energy apparently."

Her shoulders shook silently as she giggled. "Apparently so."

"Another thing we should probably talk about is getting married," he stated matter of factly. "As you said, people are probably already talking and if we have a baby..."

She smiled beautifully. "Are you proposing to me, James?"

He shook his head. "Not yet, I'm not," he winked his eye. "It should be a more romantic setting when I do."

She nodded her head. "Hungry?"

His grin grew wider, "Yes ma'am, I am." He pulled her down to him, kissing her hungrily. 

She returned the kiss, laughing against his lips, but then pulled away slowly. She stood and held out her hand. "C'mon Cowboy. I'll make you..." She glanced at the clock, then shrugged, "lunch."

"Lunch works," he replied as he stood. He wrapped his arms around her from behind, hugging her close. 

Once in the kitchen, Isabella grabbed the steaks that were never cooked last night and placed them in the oven once more, turning it on. James took a seat at the table and watched her work while stretching his long arms and legs. She pulled out a loaf of fresh bread from the box, slicing it and placing it on the table in front of him.

"Do you think your dad would have liked me, Belle?

She gave a sentimental smile. "Well, he wouldn't have been a fan of your technique... bedding a girl the first night and all." She placed her hand on his shoulder. "But yes, he would have liked you."

"Good."

She pulled the steaks from the oven, placing them on a plate as well, and grabbed a wedge of cheese and a knife to have with them. From his chair, James watched her work, smiling and completely happy. After she placed the food on the table, James stood and took her hands in his. She smiled.

"Honey, at this rate, we'll never eat." 

"I don't want to wait anymore, I don't have a ring yet, but I'll get one, I love you, more than I thought I would ever love anyone." He dropped to one knee. "Isabella will you marry me?

Her smile widened and brightened. "Of course I will."

He stood quickly, lifting her into the air, and spun around in a circle. He then pulled her to him and kissed her again and again as she burst into irrepressible laughter. She kissed him back joyfully and looked down into his eyes. 

"Now eat your lunch, Cowboy. I need you nourished."

He walked to the table and sat down, looking up at her expectantly. She took the seat next to him, and his hand snaked over to take hers, squeezing gently. He smiled wide like a child with a new toy and began quickly devouring everything on his plate. She laughed at his eagerness and began to eat her own lunch, pointedly slow.

He looked down at his plate sheepishly. "Sorry, that wasn't very polite, I suppose."

She shook her head and squeezed his hand. "It's fine."

He gazed at her adoringly as she ate, watching the blush creep up to engulf her face once again. "What, hon?"

She finished her food and wiped her mouth delicately, shaking her head. "No one's ever watched me eat before." She winked at him.

"Baby, you're just so pretty. I could watch you all day," he replied.

Her blush deepened even more. "You're too kind."

"It's the truth." He leaned over and kissed her cheek lightly. 

"We have work to do out there, you know?"

He laughed, "yes, but you may want to change out of that first." He nodded at her nightdress.

She smiled. "Perhaps you're right." She headed upstairs to change, hearing him following behind. She laughed and shook her head as she walked into the room that they would now share. He leaned against the door and raised his eyebrows at her laughter.

"What did I do?"

She looked at him, tilting her head. "Somehow, I don't think we're going to make it back outside if you're here with me."

"Oh, no?"

As she reached down, pulling off the nightdress, standing naked before him, she shook her head. Watching his face change, lust showing in his eyes, she knew that if he came near her now, no work would be accomplished outside. She smiled, "see what I mean?"

"Maybe," his eyes trailed over her body and he swallowed hard. 

Suddenly, there was a loud clap of thunder. She jumped, turning to look out the window as sheets of rain begin began to fall outside.

"Well," he chuckled, "so much for work." He moved across the room as he began to take off his shirt.

"What about the horses, are they in?" Her panic grew, being so used to taking care of the place herself. She reached for her nightdress again, but he grabbed her hand gently.

"Yes," he stated calmly. "I thought it looked overcast this morning so I left them in."

She smiled softly. "Sorry, I forget that I have help now."

"It's ok, baby." He moved to her, shirtless, and pulled her naked body against him. Her arms wrapped around his neck as she looked up at him.

"How does a day spent in bed sound?"

She smiled gratefully. "It sounds like heaven."

He grinned, "good." 

He fell back to the bed, pulling her down on top of him. She laughed and ran her hands over his chest. He gently brushed her hair back and pushed his boots off with his feet. She turned her head into his hand and kissed his palm. He murmured softly, pushing off his pants and pulling the covers up over them both. She curled her body into his as he leaned over and kissed her forehead. 

"So what are you going to tell your friends in town?"

She shrugged. "Who said they were my friends?"

He raised an eyebrow. "Surely you must have a couple friends."

"I didn't really get in to town much growing up, and daddy wasn't big on guests. The ones I did make always ended up getting married and going off with their husbands."

He shook his head. "I'm sorry, hon." He softly kissed her forehead again. 

"The people left around town now are no one I care about. They're just small town folk who love to gossip."

He held her tight, rubbing her back. "So do you want a boy or girl?"

She laughed unexpectedly as he changed the subject so abruptly. "A boy," she whispered. 

"Why's that?"

"Well, it doesn't really matter." She kissed him softly. "But a little boy could be just like his daddy."

He smiled down into her eyes, "that's so sweet love."

He began kissing her lightly, down along her neck, then nibbling back up her collarbone. She lay back as he began running his hands over her body, one finding its way down between her legs. She gasped as his touch and parted her legs to allow him access. He massaged her gently, rubbing his palm back and forth over the growing wetness as she sighed deeply in pleasure. 

"Tell me what you want love," he murmured into her ear as he slid a finger into her so slowly. 

She gasped. "You... I want you."

He pushed his finger up against her most tender spot, firmly and she arched her back, crying out.

"That feel good, baby?"

She gasped, "Oh, God... yes!" 

Her hands gripped the sheet under her and she writhed beneath him. He pushed a second finger inside, increasing the pressure on her spot while lazily rubbing his thumb back and forth over her clit. Her moans increased in volume, and her movements increased in intensity as he rubbed faster, pressing harder. Her body tensed greatly and she screamed out as she climaxed. He lapped at the sweet nectar coming from within her as she shuddered and then collapsed to the bed. Her breasts heaved as she panted.

"Was that good, baby?" His hand stroked her stomach gently. 

She looked down, her eyes still slightly glazed. "Oh, God yes."

He moved slowly, crawling up over her body. He kissed her lips, gently, feeling her body still shaking. Her arms wrapped around his neck, and he sighed happily. 

"I never thought I could be this happy, Belle."

"Why not?" Her head tilted in confusion.

"I never knew happiness like this existed."

She kissed his lips softly. He smiled against her mouth.

"I love the way your lips feel against mine," he smiled. "So what do you want to get done when it dries off?" 

Before she could answer, he continued, rolling on his back and stretching out in the bed. "I figured we need to repair some fence, and now since it's rained we'll be able to tell where the barns are leaking and I can fix them."

She smiled gratefully. "I haven't been able to do that yet this year. Daddy was going to, but then..." She trailed off and took a breath. "And I couldn't do it on my own."

"As well you shouldn't, it's dangerous being up on those roofs. I don't want my girl getting hurt," he stated with authority. 

She smiled. "You know, I'm not some helpless damsel. Daddy raised me to run this place."

He looked into her eyes. "Well, now I can run it and you can help whenever you want. I want you to be able to relax a little." 

She narrowed her eyes, sticking out her lower lip. "I relax!"

He kissed her stuck-out lip until she smiled. "Especially once the baby is born. No more farm work for you after that."

She threw up her hands. "I'm not even pregnant yet!"

He smiled, "At the rate we're going I have no doubt you will be soon." He glanced out the window, "it's almost dinnertime," he noted, stretching and yawning.

Outside, the thunder still rattled the windows, and he glanced at her face.

"It doesn't scare you does it?"

She slowly shook her head.

"Are you sure?" He gave a little grin, tugging her closer

She tried to look offended. "Yes, I'm sure. It makes the animals nervous... "

He laughed, "the animals are fine, I don't hear one of them. I think it makes Bella nervous."

She shook her head emphatically.

"Belle...."

The lightning flashed close to the window and she jumped. He grinned and placed a light kiss on her nose. Wrapping his arms tight around her, he murmured, "it's ok, I won't let you get hurt, baby."

She rested her forehead against his and smiled softly. She looked into his eyes and whispered, "promise?"

"I'll do my best, my love." He stroked her arm gently, holding her close. He looked at her and felt a deep surge of happiness, and leaned down to kiss her cheek. "What are you thinking for dinner?"

Her shoulders moved slightly in a shrug. "I don't know, I didn't get anything out this morning."

He grinned. "Well, then how bout you?" 

As he spoke, he slid down under the covers, placing soft kisses in a trail down her body. A smile lit her face as he moved lower and lower, parting her legs gently and running his tongue between her soft lips. Moving the covers from his head, he began to take delicate nips around her wetness, glancing up to gauge her reaction with each move. He then tenderly took her throbbing clit between his lips, suckling it ever so gently. As he did so, he delicately eased two fingers inside her, pushing against her most private place and licked greedily at the little button under his tongue. Her body began to move under him, undulating with the sensations. Her moans and whimpers steadily increased in volume as he pushed his face deeper into her wetness. He delighted in the sounds she made as he licked, sucked, and moaned into her, sending shivers through her body. She gasped, arching off the bed, writhing and moaning as she climaxed. His face was soaked with her juices as she bucked beneath him. He moaned at her release and began hungrily licking, trying to get every last drop. She gave one final shudder, and went almost limp under him as he gently cleaned her with his tongue.

Finally, as she looked down at him, he slowed and began the short trip up to her smiling and flushed face. He sighed happily and smiled down at her. 

"I love how you taste, baby." He rolled onto his side, facing her, gently brushing her hair from her face.

She bit her lip nervously, and looked up at him. "Can I... see how you taste?"

"Do you want to love?," he asked as he softly rubbed her arm. 

She nodded slowly, her eyes wide and gazing. 

"Ok, baby. You can do whatever you want." 

A smile spread across her face, and she moved down the bed. She glanced up at him as she wrapped her small hand around his hardness, enjoying the sound he released as she touched him. She leaned down, eyes still trained on his face, and licked slowly around the head. He gasped, running his hands through her hair. Encouraged by this, she began to take the head into her mouth, sucking gently.

"Oh baby, that feels so good"

His words added a level of confidence she didn't have before, she got a bit braver, attempting to take more of him inside her mouth. Pushing down, her eyes grew wide as she gagged lightly.

"You ok, baby?" he choked out, barely able to speak because it felt so good.

Not stopped for long, she tried again. This time, she made progress, getting more inside. His moan made her smile around him, and she sucked more hungrily now. His hands gently tugged at her hair as she worked, moving her mouth up and down on him. 

"Baby, yes, that feels great," he moaned. "I'm close, love."

She took as much as she could into her mouth, sucking eagerly. With a groan, he reached orgasm, shooting into her mouth and down her throat. Her eyes widened as she tried to take it all in without choking. His body convulsed and he continued to fill her mouth. She worked to try to swallow it, ignoring his protests that she did not have to, and eventually looked up at him and licked her lips clean. 

She smiled as she slid back up next to him, and cuddled into his side. Looking up at him, she whispered, "you taste good too."

He grinned, "Baby, that was wonderful." He pulled her close to him and kissed her forehead. "So I looked in the ice box this morning and noticed we getting low on meat, I was thinking I might go hunting tomorrow."

She looked up at him, surprised. "Hunting?"

He nodded. "Yes, for deer, pheasant, whatever I can find."

Her nose wrinkled with distaste, "I can just go into town and see the butcher."

"That costs money, baby."

A small smile spread across her face. "It does. But, who says I don't have any?"

Nodding, he looked down at her. "Good point. Am I marrying a rich girl?"

Her grin widened and she looked up at him. "You might just be. Granddaddy made a lot of money in the oil business when he first moved the family out here. He owned so much land, and they just kept digging wells. I don't spend too much of it, and the ranch does ok on it's own, really." She rubbed his arm. "We're fine, honey."

"Well, there's a pretty nice bonus, I suppose," he murmured, laughing.

"You can still go hunting if you want," she shrugged. "But you're eating the deer."

"No venison for you, love?"

Her nose wrinkled again, and he laughed. He leaned down and kissed it gently, making her smile. "Ok, babe. Ever had quail?"

She shook her head and he nodded.

"I might ride around just to get the lay of the land. And if I can get any I'll cook them for dinner tomorrow."

"Ok, just be careful."

He laughed. "Honey, they're quail, they're tiny."

"I wasn't talking about the birds. Other people hunt around here, too, you know."

He nodded gravely, "so, you do know that they're birds, then?" 

She smacked his arm playfully and he feigned injury. He leaned in and kissed her cheek, "You look tired honey. Why don't you nap? I'll run and check the water and toss the horses some hay."

She nodded and slid down to curl under the covers. He smiled down at her and rose from the bed, stretching. She fell asleep almost instantly, as if proving his point that she was, in fact, tired. He looked around and grabbed his clothes, dressing quickly and heading outside. Once in the stable, he checked on the horses, feeding and watering them. As he trotted back inside, he looked in the icebox, and snagged a piece of the cheese wedge, standing over the sink and watching the rain fall. When he finished, he walked upstairs silently, leaning against the doorpost after his arrival. He tilted his head as he watched her sleep, noting that there was a small smile on her lips. As he watched, she awoke, opening her eyes and stretching as she looked over at him.




Love Rides a Chestnut Horse Ch. 02



"Hi, baby," he smiled. "Sorry I woke you."

She shook her head, "it's ok. I should get up anyway and make us some dinner."

He shushed her, frowning. "I can make dinner. You stay in bed and I'll bring it up."

Her bright smile was worth the sudden fear he felt as he realized he had no idea what he was going to make. As she rolled back over and drifted off again, he headed downstairs to the kitchen, opening the icebox and looking around. He pulled out some ham and bread, making sandwiches, and heated up last night's potatoes. He put the plates on a tray and added two glasses of milk. Lifting his creation, he walked back up the steps and placed the tray gently on the bed, careful not to spill anything. He glanced at Isabella, still sound asleep on her side of the bed, and carefully reached out to touch her arm.

"Honey, it's time to wake up." He rubbed her arm gently. "C'mon, baby, dinner's ready." He shook her slightly.

Abruptly, she gasped and sat up straight, her eyes wide and unfocused. He put his hands on both her shoulders and tried to pull her attention to him.

"Shh, it's ok baby. I'm here, I'm right here. You're ok. I'm so sorry."

She turned to face him, blinking. Flushed and embarassd, she shook her head. "It's ok, it's nothing. Just a silly dream."

"What was it honey?"

She leaned in and kissed his cheek. "It was nothing, I promise."

He took her hands in his. "No, tell me, baby." He moved over on the bed until he was next to her, pulling the tray with him.

"It was a long time ago and it doesn't matter. I'm fine. Let's just eat ok?" She squeezed his hand, smiling sadly.

"Ok, but I want you to know you can tell me anything." He looked solemnly into her eyes, causing her to smile at his concern. She nodded, kissing his cheek again. He smiled, and then handed her a plate of mashed potatoes and ham on a biscuit. 

Looking down, she nodded with approval. "Well, done." She bumped his shoulder with her own. 

They sat and ate in silence, curled into one another. Occasionally, they would brush hands, or share kisses or food. When they finished they set their plates on the tray, and the tray on the floor. He smiled and opened his arms to her, and allowed her to curl up in them. She laid her head on his chest, yawning sleepily.

He squeezed her tight. "So, when do you want to get married baby?" He placed a soft kiss on the top of her head as he waited for her answer. 

She smiled against his chest. "Soon, I think. Maybe tomorrow while you hunt, I'll go into town and make some arrangements."

"That sounds great, baby." He chuckled, "imagine the looks you'll get."

She shrugged and smiled. "I'm used to them. We've always been thought to be a little eccentric out here."

He held her close. "Just tell them I'm your long lost love."

"I think that's appropriate." She giggled, "I will." As she smiled contently, she once again fell asleep on his chest. Shortly after, he drifted off himself.



Love Rides a Chestnut Horse Ch. 03



The next morning, he awoke before dawn and slipped out of her arms. He looked back longingly at her curled sleeping in the bed, but moved to the grab his clothes and got dressed. He headed out to the barn and took care of the morning chores, already getting used to this new routine. He tended to the horses last, feeding Leo and giving him water. He moved to Beauty to do the same, finding him much more difficult to manage. He marveled over his fiancé's skills with him, but recognized that the horse was probably simply unused to dealing with someone other than Isabella. He finished and came into the house to leave a note for her to find when she woke, planning to head out for his ride before she woke. He walked to the den and looked around for something to write with. As he sorted through the desk, he thumbed through old pictures and smiled at his girl. He moved a stack of them aside and saw the bank ledger, and paused for a moment. He placed his hand on it, but did not pull it out or open it. He knew that when the time came, she would share everything with him. He pulled a piece of paper from beneath it and found a pencil buried under some other documents, and began to write. 

Upstairs, as the sun shone through the windows Isabella slowly awoke, blinking at the light and stretching her body in the bed. She turned her head to the side seeing he was gone, and pulled herself out of bed. She padded to the bathroom, where she readied herself to go into town. He heard her movements and abandoned the note. He walked up the stairs and paused in the door of the bathroom. He watched her careful movements as she began putting her long hair up. 

"Morning, baby," he smiled as he leaned against the doorway. 

"Good morning."

He watched her intently. "I was just writing you a note to tell you I'm going to leave for my ride now. I should be back early this afternoon. All the morning chores are done, so there's nothing for you to worry about."

"Ok," she nodded. "I'm going to leave soon to head into town."

"Ok, baby," he whispered. He leaned in close and placed a soft kiss on her temple. It seemed odd, but it hurt him to know that the two of them were going to be apart for the majority of the day. 

She smiled, "be careful."

"I will, love. You come back quickly. I want you here when I get home." He gave her a wink with a lustful glance and she chuckled. 

Shaking her head, she smiled. "I'll do my best, babe. You'd better go before you get yourself in trouble."

"Kiss me first."

She leaned up, kissing his lips softly. He closed his eyes and rubbed her arms. 

He squeezed her hand as he turned away and walked down the hall. 

"Be careful!" She called out as he descended the stairs.

He smiled, calling back up to her. "I will, baby. I'm not going to leave you." 

He walked from the house and got Leo ready to ride, swinging onto his back and taking off at a lope through the fields of the farm. Isabella finished getting ready and headed out to get Beauty. As he reached the top of a hill behind the house, he looked down to see her riding away from him in the opposite direction. He let out a shrill whistle and saw her pull the black stallion to a stop. As she turned to look for the source of the sound, she saw him waving in the distance and waved back. 

From his position on the hill, he yelled as loud as he could, "love you baby be careful!"

She smiled and waved, showing him she had heard. Looking over her shoulder, she turned Beauty back towards the road and took off. When he couldn't see her anymore, he turned Leo and headed over the hill. 

Isabella slowed as she rode into town, feeling the disapproving stares of the townsfolk. She grinned to herself, and continued towards the church at the end of the road. She slipped off Beauty and tied him, unaware of the dark clouds gathering behind her as she headed into the church. Inside, she greeted the reverend with a big hug, and the two sat down for a long talk. While he was shocked to hear her tale, he knew her father well and had known Isabella herself since birth. He knew that she didn't make quick decisions lightly, and he told her he couldn't wait to meet this young man who had stolen her heart and sent the townsfolk into such frenzy. Together, they planned a small, private ceremony that would take place in the church in just two days. As she stood to leave, he congratulated her once again and told her that her father would be very proud. She smiled shakily and wiped away a tear as she thanked him, walking outside. As she approached Beauty, she noticed he was moving in a nervous manner. She looked up and saw the gathering clouds, heard rolls of distant thunder. Quickly she untied him and abandoned all other errands, mounting him and taking off toward home. The rain began to pour down before she reached the edge of town and she cursed silently.

Back on the ranch, James had reached the end of the property line and began riding along it. He saw the clouds gathering over town and hoped his girl was ok. He knew the storm was moving in closer, and decided to cut the ride short and head back. He nudged Leo forward, moving quickly through the brush and starting down a steep hill. As Leo stepped tentatively, the water-soaked ground suddenly gave way and he slipped, falling to his side and pinning James's leg as they slipped and slid down the hill in the rain and mud. As they slid faster and faster, the horse moved off of him, freeing James from beneath him. His joy at being released was short-lived, however as his head glanced off a rock before his fall finally ended. He lay still for only a moment, gasping, and then pushed himself up on all fours, blood dripping from his forehead. He took stock of the situation, the leg that was pinned feeling sprained. He called Leo over and was able to pull himself onto the horse. He slumped in the saddle and pointed the horse toward home.

Isabella galloped faster down the old dirt road, the crashing thunder and lightning making Beauty rear up several times. She clung to his neck to not be thrown off, urging him faster and faster. She didn't know what, but had a sinking feeling that something is wrong. As she reached the house, she saw Leo coming over the back field, James slumped in the saddle. She gasped as Leo ran up to her whinnying loudly. Jumping off Beauty's back, she hurried around the horse, reaching up to her fiancé with fear in her heart.

"James? James, please! You promised!"

His eyes opened and he looked down at her, trying to force a smile. "Im... Ok, Baby...."

"No, you're not... Can you get down?"

He clumsily slid from the saddle and slipped to the ground. He held on to the saddle as she struggled to hold his larger form. She wavered a moment, and then stood straight. 

"It's ok," she whispered. "I've got you."

She guided him toward the door, her body burning from the exertion.

He groaned in pain, "Honey, you need to see to Leo and Beauty. We don't need them to get sick."

She turned her head, whistling loudly. Upon hearing it, Beauty took off for the barn, nudging Leo as he goes. "See? They're fine."

"Baby, no. They need the saddles off or they'll get saddle sores."

"I know. I'll do it as soon as I take care of you. Let's get you inside." She helped him stumble up the stairs and into the house. 

He stopped once they were inside and looked at the stairs. He didn't think there was any way she could get him up the stairs, though her strength thus far was admirable. He looked down at her, "I'm all muddy, love. We don't need that in the bed."

She nodded, relieved. "The couch, then. It'll clean."

She steered him to it and as gently as possible laid him down on it. He pulled off his shirt and used it to wipe the blood from his head. Isabella couldn't help the tears that began to fall as she struggled to help him.

He reached out and cupped her face gently. "Baby, don't cry. I'm ok."

Her shoulders began to shake as she sobbed. Shaking her head, she cried, "no, you're not! You promised you wouldn't leave me." Shakily, she held his shirt to the cut on his head.

"Baby, I'm right here. I haven't left," he tried to take her hand, but she pulled away. 

"But you're hurt!"

He smiled a little, hoping to calm her. "I'll be ok baby."

She shook her head violently. "You don't KNOW that. You can never KNOW that!"

"Yes. I can, love." He pulled her down and kissed her gently.

She shivered, pushing away from him. "I... I have to go take care of the horses. Will you be ok until I'm back?"

He looked at her questioningly, but replied, "yes, baby. But please be careful, it's very slippery out there."

Nodding, she ran back out the door into the storm. In her long dress, she struggled through the puddles and mud, stumbling several times. Eventually she reached the barn and ran inside to take care of the horses. He watched her go out, then pushed himself up, struggling to his feet and limped up the stairs to the room he had initially planned to live in. He dried himself off and cleaned himself up as best he could and changed into dry clothes. Satisfied, he hobbled back down the stairs and out to the porch, seeing the lantern burning in the barn. He held a bandage to his head, hoping the bleeding would soon stop altogether. 

In the stable, Isabella led Leo into his new stall, talking softly to him. 

"Thanks for getting him back to me, baby. You're a good boy." 

She pulled off his saddle, brushed him down quickly and gave him a small scoop of feed and fresh water. She then headed over to her Beauty, who seemed more skittish than normal as she approached him. She soothed him as she always did, leading him into his stall. As she pulled off his saddle there was another loud clap of thunder and the big horse reared up on his hind legs, kicking Isabella in the temple as he did so. She cried out as she fell, losing consciousness, into the corner of the pen. From the porch, James heard the commotion and moved as fast as possible out into the stable. His eyes widened as he saw her laying on the floor of the pen. 

"BABY!" He screamed as he ran to her side, forgetting the pain in his leg and head. He saw the blood matting her hair, the large gash on her temple, and struggled to wake her up.

"Baby...." he sobbed, his tears as real as hers had been what seemed like moments before. "Talk to me please, baby. Honey, I'm so sorry."

He ran his hands over her body, checking for other injuries, and shook her as gently as he could. 

"Please talk to me," he whispered as he patted her face gently. He felt so lost as he stared her, willing her big green eyes to open. He reached over and got a handful of water from the pail and splashed it on her face. She awoke, gasping. Her eyes opened slowly, then closed again in pain.

"Oh, thank God! Honey, talk to me love," he leaned in over her and placed his hand on the top of her head. She groaned in pain. 

"I don't think Beauty liked me talking to Leo." Her voice was barely above a whisper and her eyes were once again closed tightly against the pain. 

"No, baby he was just scared. Oh God, I'm so sorry." He looked around, wondering how he was going to get her back into the house. 

She whimpered, "It's ok. I'm ok."

Not seeing an alternative he looked back down at her. "I'm going to carry you inside now, ok?"

She tried to shake her head, and then moaned in pain. "You can't, your leg...." 

He scooped her up, holding back a groan from the pain. Hobbling, he carried her inside.

She whispered, "stop, you'll hurt your leg worse. I can walk." Her eyes closed again, even as she protested.

"Honey, no." He stated as he ground his teeth together, carrying her upstairs. He laid her carefully on the bed, hurrying to get cloths and water, bringing them back to her side. He began to clean the blood from her head, tears running unchecked down his face. 

"I'm so sorry, baby."

She whimpered as he pressed against the wound, whispering, "not your fault."

He shook his head angrily, "I shouldn't have told you to go take care of the horses."

"You had to. It's ok." Her eyes drifted closed again.

Gently, he rubbed the blood away, then washed out the cloth and repeated his actions. "Stay with me. Wake up baby."

She groaned, whispering, "tired..."

"No, baby. You've got to stay with me, ok?" He watched as she struggled to keep her eyes open. "You were unconscious, baby."

He leaned down, kissing her gently. "Stay with me, my love," he murmured.

She whispered once more, "it hurts."

"I know, baby." He quickly made a bandage and placed it on her head. "Talk to me, love. Stay with me."

Her hand moved up, brushing the cut and bruise on his head. "You're hurt," her voice was suddenly filled with wonder.

"I'll be ok, baby. I'm just worried about you." He took her hand, holding it firmly, as if he could hold her to him if he tried hard enough."

"I'm ok...," her eyes closed again. "I'm just tired." She fought to keep them open, though she couldn't remember why she wasn't allowed to sleep. She was so tired, and sleep would make her better. Why was he telling her to stay awake?

In answer, he squeezed her hand quickly. "Come on, baby. Talk to me, please?"

Her eyes were still closed, but she responded to his request. "What do you want to talk about?"

He scrambled for questions to ask her to keep her with him. "What do you want to name the baby when we have one?"

"A baby would be nice," her lips curled into a smile. Then her eyes actually opened wide. She brought her other hand over to him and placed it on top of his. "Oh, and we're getting married in two days. Don't forget, ok?"

He smiled, for the first time that night, "two days, huh? Ok baby, I'll remember." 

"It's just us," she whispered, drained. "We don't need anyone else..." her voice drifted off at the end and her eyes closed again.

"No, baby, come on." He leaned in, kissing her lips deeply, trying anything to keep her awake. "Honey, please. You have to stay up for awhile since you lost consciousness." 

She heard him and managed to open them just a tiny bit. "Tell me a story," she whispered. "Tell me about you... about growing up,"

He smiled again, squeezing her hand. "Ok, baby. Well, I grew up on a small farm in Kentucky. We always had animals around. I got my first horse when I was twelve. I remember we'd ride to the lake and go swimming with friends." As he spoke, he watched her carefully, making sure she was staying awake. He continued on for hours, talking about his youth and his journey, trying to engage her in the story so she wouldn't fall asleep. Eventually, they both succumbed to sleep. Isabella lay on her back with James curled protectively around her, as if he were guarding her from being taken away. 



Love Rides a Chestnut Horse Ch. 04



The next morning, he awoke with his head pounding and it took a moment for him to recall why. As soon as he did, he turned his head to the side, looking for his fiancé, but terrified at what he might find. But as he turned his head, he saw his angel sleeping. Her chest gave a gentle rise and fall with her breathing. He lay there for a moment, watching her sleep and looked at the darkening bruise covering half her face. He ran his finger lightly over the gash, wishing he could make it disappear. He leaned down to kiss her, still feeling horrible that she was hurt. As he placed a gentle kiss on her forehead, her eyes blinked open and she looked up at him, confusion dawning in her eyes. 

He ran his hand through her hair, "You ok baby?"

She frowned. "What happened?" she whispered.

He sighed with relief, "you got kicked, hon."

Her eyes blinked closed again, and she shook her head in confusion. "But... no, you were hurt."

"I'll live," he smiled as he rubbed her arm gently.

"You're ok?"

"Well I've got a headache and a sore leg. But I'll live, baby. I'm just worried about you." His eyes showed concern as he watched her trying to put the pieces back together

She closed her eyes and thought for a moment. Opening them, "I'm... I'm ok, I think." Her eyes then closed tightly and she sighed, "oh, my head."

"Yeah, you're staying in bed today - no arguments."

She shook her head, then groaned and closer her eyes. "No, I can't. There's too much to do. We're getting married tomorrow..."

He laid his hand gently on her forehead. "You're staying in bed."

Ignoring him, she attempted to push herself up, "But, I have to...."

He gently grabbed her arm to stop her. "No. I'll ride into town and talk to the reverend and put it off a day or two..." he trailed off as her eyes widened. She shook her head as she looked up at him.

"No! Don't leave!"

"Honey, it's ok," he soothed. "I'll only be gone for about twenty minutes."

Tears formed in her eyes, "But yesterday, when you left...." She looked up into his eyes. "You got hurt."

He nodded. "And I'm still here, baby." He pulled her gently into his arms and she cuddled into his chest.

"Everyone always leaves me."

He took her chin gently and raised her eyes to his. She sighed, shaking her head. 

"My parents both died on this ranch because of the horses. They just rode away on them and didn't come back." She looked up at him as she finished. 

"Oh honey, I'm sorry." He pulled her tight to his chest, rubbing gently up and down her back.

"I don't want to be left alone again. You promised."

He shushed her softly. "Honey, I'm going to have to go out and take care of the ranch and go to town. It will be ok. I'll always come back."

She pulled away from him, blushing. "I'm sorry. I don't know what came over me." She nodded slowly, "Of course you do." 

He pulled her back into his arms, "It's ok, love. I know it scares you, and I understand."

She shook her head, "It's silly, I know. I'm being illogical."

"It's understandable," he held her to his chest and rubbed her back, and she smiled.

"Can I ask one more silly question?"

He nodded, "You can ask me anything, baby."

She smiled softly, lifting her head and looking up at him. "Just how scary is my face right now? Only one of the three of you has to answer...."

"Please, tell me you're joking."

She smiled, "Well, about the second part, anyway."

"It's pretty bruised, sweetie."

She nodded, accepting. "I guess I can live with that. And I am a little dizzy, I guess. But it's not like it's the first time a horse kicked me in the head." She laid her head back on his chest.

His eyes widened. "What do you mean, 'not the first time'???"

She rubbed his arms. "Honey, I grew up in those fields. Do you think I never annoyed another one into it?" She turned her smile into his chest. 

Shaking his head, he laid a gentle kiss in her hair. "I'm going to go feed the animals and run into town, ok baby?"

She nodded. 

"It will be ok, I won't be gone long. I promise" 

"Sorry I was irrational. I know you will," the blush crept up her cheeks again, and she kissed his lips softly. He deepened the kiss, so grateful that she was here and talking to him. She broke it off, and asked, "Are you sure you're ok to be walking around?"

He nodded, "I'm sure, love."

"Ok, I'll be here... apparently." She smiled up at him as he slid carefully from beneath her, and out of bed. 

"You better be." He stood sorely, picking up some clothes and starting to get dressed. He pulled his jeans on, wavering slightly. He turned away from her so she wouldn't see the grimace on his face.

She watched him carefully. "Oh, baby. Your leg... You can't do all that today. It'll keep for a day."

He shook his head, "No... I can." He stood and walked toward the door. Pausing, he turned to her. "Love you, Belle."

She watched him from the bed. "You too... please be careful."

He nodded, "I will, honey." With one last glance, he slowly hobbled down the hallway and the stairs. James slowly made his way to the door and walked outside. He fed the horses, cursing hatefully at the black stallion while he saddled Leo. He dragged himself onto the horse, and moved down the driveway, riding away. She listened to his progress, sighing in frustration, and pushed herself to a sitting position as she heard the hoof beats pound away from the house. She blinked back the dizziness and leaned back against the headboard. Her hand came up slowly, tentatively touching the side of her face. She winced as she felt the tender skin, probing lightly along what felt like a long gash on her face. She grimaced at the thought that she would likely have an ugly scar. She hoped that James could look past that when this was all over. She slid back down and curled on her side against the pillows.

After about half an hour had passed, she heard the sound of hooves again, and smiled softly. Soon after she could make out his steps on the porch and then heard his slow progress up the stairs. Her eyes watched the doorway, and soon he appeared with a large box in one hand, the other behind his back. She tilted her head in confusion until he brought the hand from behind his back and held out a bouquet of fresh picked wildflowers.

She smiled widely, "they're beautiful."

"I'm glad you like them," he stated as he placed them on the nightstand. "And now, this." 

She slowly pushed herself to sit up again, looking at him in confusion. As he set the box on the bed, it began wiggling and her eyes widened. 

"What is it?" she asked, just as there was a small "Yip!" from the box. She smiled wide, "you didn't..."

"Open it and find out," he grinned.

She reached for the box and lifted the lid. A tiny white and brown puppy hopped out and began licking her hands. She giggled, "James!"

He shrugged, sitting on the bed next to her. "I thought we needed a dog," he stated softly as he kissed her bruised face.

She picked the puppy up into her hands and held his wriggling form close to her chest. "He's so precious," she smiled. "You're too good to me."

He took her hand gently in his, and looked into her eyes. "I love you, Isabella.

She put the puppy down on the bed, letting him run around on the sheet. She squeezed his hand and looked into his eyes. "This," she motions toward her face, "wasn't your fault. So stop looking at me like that." 

He kissed her gently. "Leo picked some of the flowers, he felt bad for you, too." He pulled her close to him.

She smiled softly and shook her head. "I'll be sure to thank him later. And I'm sorry. I was careless. I should have been paying better attention, but I just wanted to get back to you. I know Beauty's skittish in thunder, I know better than to startle him more."

He shook his head firmly, "you have nothing to be sorry for."

She rested her head on his shoulder. "So what's this little guy's name?"

"Up to you baby," he squeezed her gently.

She held her hand out to the puppy, and he ran over. As he bounded across the bed, he stumbled on a wrinkle in the blanket and flopped down. She laughed softly as he finally made it over to her, and she rubbed his belly as he rolled over. 

"What's your name buddy? Do you have one?" He yipped as she talked softly to him.

James smiled, rubbing her back, "guess not." He leaned down as she turned to him, kissing her lips gently. She kissed back, reaching her hand out and rubbing his leg. 

"Are you sure you're ok?" She looks up at him, concerned. "I can send word to the Doctor."

"I'll be ok honey. Don't look so worried." 

She smiled lightly, looking back at the dog. "What was your last rank in the army, baby? We should honor all that you did."

He smiled. "I was a Captain, Bella. But we don't have to." He slid close to her, putting his arm around her shoulder. 

"I want to." She looked back at the dog. "Captain Buchanan it is." He yipped up at her and she laughed loudly. "I think that was an order."

"What will we call him for short, then?"

She lay back against him, and sighed. "Cappy," she grinned as the dog began to pounce around the bed. She then glanced over at James. "I still think you should get that checked out."

"It's not broken Bella, just sprained," he soothed as he rubbed her arm.

She nodded, "Ok." She closed her eyes again, leaning her head back on his shoulder. Cappy made his way up the bed and snuggled up besides them, completing the family portrait. She smiled. "Just me and my two favorite guys," she whispered.

He smiled, "What do you think honey, nap?"

She nodded. "I think that sounds like a good idea."

He pushed off his boots and cuddled down against her. She reached up, brushing her fingers over his forehead. He winced just a little and shut his eyes as she passed over the cut and dark bruise, holding her close to him.

"I'm sorry," she whispered.

"It's ok, baby." He kissed the tip of her nose lightly and she smiled.

"Did you go to the church?"

He nodded, "scheduled it for a week from tomorrow."

She grinned, "good. Well, maybe I won't be half purple by then."

"That was my thought.

"And maybe you'll be able to walk down the aisle," she squeezed his hand gently.

He smiled warmly, "I can't wait."

"I'm sorry it got messed up," she sighed.

"Hey, no. You didn't mess anything up, baby." He kissed her forehead as she snuggled into his chest, falling asleep quickly. He sighed happily and held her close, drifting off himself.

A short while later, Isabella awoke to Cappy's frightened whimpers. She looked down at him and smiled. "Does someone need to go outside?" she whispered, not wanting to wake James. She slowly and carefully slipped from his arms and set the puppy on the floor, where he ran to the bedroom door. Using the bed as support, she slowly stood, feeling a wave of dizziness overtake her. She managed to remain upright and felt the wave pass. Smiling, she took a tentative step forward.

Feeling her absence in his sleep, James awoke, looking around bleary eyed. "Baby?" he called out, questioning.

"I'm right here," she replied from her position next to the bed. 

His eyes widened as he jumped out of bed. "Sit... Now."

She smiled, "Cappy needs to go outside."

"I got him, you get back in bed" he assured her.

Blushing, she looked over at him. "He's not the only one that needs to go."

He stood quickly, hobbling a moment. He then steadied himself, and walked around the bed. "Well, let me help you to the bathroom then I'll take Cappy."

"I can get there," she shook her head. "There's wall the whole way." She moved slowly along it, resting every few steps.

He came over, wrapping his arms around her. "Nonsense, lean against me."

"But I really could have," she pouted.

He shushed her and led her into the bathroom. She turned and leaned on the door. "Now take out the dog. A lady doesn't like to be overheard in the bathroom."

He smiled, shaking his head as she closed the door. "Come on, Cappy." He picked the puppy up, headed downstairs and outside for him to do his business.

After finishing, she moved herself slowly along the wall back to the bed. She smiled as she settled into it, pulling the covers back over her. Soon after she was again lying down, James walked into the room with Cappy in his arms. Plopping the dog on the bed with her, he smiled at her as she looked up at him.

"I told you I could do it."

He grinned, "What? Go to the bathroom? I had no doubt." 

She blushed. "No, that I could walk." She scratched Cappy's head as he sat down next to her. He smiled as he reached over, stroking his hand along her side and across her stomach. 

She looked down at the cotton nightdress she had on. "Nice choice on the sleepwear, babe."

"Well," he smiled, "I thought about leaving you in nothing. That would have been a great view for me."

She grinned. "But, James... then I would have been naked..." She lay back on the bed, looking up at him. 

"Like I said," his smile widened, "a great view." He leaned down and kissed her lips lightly as he stared into her eyes.

She whispered, "distracting, I would think." She kissed him back softly.

"Very," he kissed her, "very distracting."

"Slow down baby, you're hurt."

"Just my leg and head, not what's... necessary," he laughed.

Laughing gently, she rubbed her hand up and down his arm. "Did you see anyone else in town?"

He thought about it a moment. "Well, the reverend, the girl you were talking to in the store when we met – she said to tell you hello."

"Oh, I bet she did," she shook her head, smiling. 

"What's that supposed to mean," he laughed.

"Just that I'm sure she wanted an excuse to talk to you," she replied. "She was probably trying to get dirt out of you – Shannon has always been the town gossip.

"Well, Shannon got nothing out of me." He tickled her side gently as he nibbled at her throat.

She smiled, and then winced as the movement hurt her face. "Stupid face," she muttered. He kissed the bruise gently as if he could make it better. She glanced up at him, "Is Beauty ok today?"

He frowned. "He's fine, baby," cursing the horse once again under his breath.

"Good," she smiled. "I do have a rather hard head."

"He's just lucky he didn't get his behind beat." He took her hand gently in his and squeezed it; his fear over losing her had barely evaporated. Talking about that horse only made it more real in his mind. 

She shook her head only slightly, so as not to jostle her injury. "He didn't mean it, baby."

"I know he didn't. But that horse is too skittish for my liking. He should be smarter than that."

She shrugged, looking up at him. "He couldn't help it," she squeezed his hand. He held her gently, and she fell asleep against him again.

He slid down in the bed and watched her sleep, her head resting against his chest, her hand still clasping his. Cappy climbed up on the bed and snuggled in right between them. James rubbed the small dog's head and sighed with happiness. Despite these recent events, life had finally brought him joy by leading him to her. As if she knew what he was thinking, Isabella smiled in her sleep, and he nodded off along with her, sleeping straight through to the next day.



Love Rides a Chestnut Horse Ch. 05



As the sun shone through the curtains the next morning, James awoke to find Isabella still sleeping soundly on his chest. Sliding gently from beneath her, he carefully laid her down on the bed. He dressed quickly, and then hobbled downstairs with Cappy at his heels, to do the morning chores. As they headed out the door, her eyes opened and she smiled after them. Tentatively, she pushed herself up in bed, testing how her head reacted. When the room didn't spin at her movement, she slipped out of bed and made her way to the bathroom.

"In bed, young lady," he called from downstairs. "You are only allowed to go to the bathroom!"

She stuck out her tongue childishly.

"I saw that!" James called as he headed out the back door.

She laughed quietly, but the sound died on her lips when she caught a glimpse of her face in the mirror. She winced at her reflection and sighed. She then set to work at her best attempt to clean herself. 

Outside, James worked as fast as he could through the morning chores. It took longer than normal with his limp and an eager puppy following him everywhere. The two finally made their way back inside and up the steps. As he entered the bedroom, he saw his fiancé looking in the bathroom mirror with distaste. He watched her cringe as she tried using a cloth to clean her face. He walked quietly up behind her, wrapping his arms around her waist. "I could always draw you a bath," he offered.

She looked at his reflection in the mirror. "I'm ok," she smiled. "Unless you'd like to take one with me," she replied as she brushed her long hair. 

"Actually, I was thinking of bathing you." His eyes didn't leave hers in the mirror, his expression serious but tender. 

Leaning back against him, she sighed, "that would be nice. But only if you want to."

He laid a soft kiss on her head. "Go lay down, baby. I'll come get you when it's ready."

She nodded, turning, and walked out of the bathroom. She moved slowly, but without assistance, and lay down on the bed with Cappy. She giggled as he rolled around on his back, whining for her to rub his belly. 

James walked in and watched her playing with him, a smile covering his face. "My family," he murmured.

Having heard him enter the room, she looked up. Smiling, she asked, "what did you say, babe?"

"I was just looking at my little family." He paused as she blushed, looking down. "The bath will be ready in a minute or two."

She stood slowly, nodding, and found herself swaying just a little. He moved quickly to hold onto her, but she shook her head. "I'm ok."

"Well, I'm staying close regardless." He kept a hand on her arm, as the walked slowly into the bathroom. When they were standing next to the tub, he whispered softly, "Hold onto me and I'll take your nightgown off."

"Is that a proposition, Mr. Buchanan?" she giggled.

He winked, "nope, it's an order." As she held onto him for support, he leaned in and placed a light, but needy, kiss on her lips. He sucked gently on her tongue and she moaned softly. Her arms lifted, so that he could remove her nightdress. He lifted it off, tossing it aside, and took off his own shirt before scooping her into his arms and placing her gently into the steaming bath. She sighed in relief, feeling the hot water relaxing her muscles. He sat down next to the tub, leaving one arm behind her to cradle her head lovingly. She turned her head to look over at him. 

"Hi honey," he smiled. 

She returned it, "hi."

"Does that feel good?"

She nodded slightly, "I didn't realize how tense my muscles were." She closed her eyes and laid her head back against his arm.

"Just relax, baby. I'll add more hot water when we need to." He watched her lying there, completely content.

She smiled, eyes still closed. "You're quiet," she noted. 

"I'm just happy to have you," he replied.

She opened her eyes and looked over at him. "Me, too."

"Good," he whispered, leaning forward and kissing her, his fingertips trailing over the outside of her thigh. As she moaned softly, he let his hand stray to the inside of her legs. She closed her eyes again, smiling. "I can stop," his voice was barely a whisper. He started to pull his hand from the water. 

She shook her head, "I didn't say that." She took his hand, whispering, "you can put it wherever you like."

He watched her. "Why don't you put it where you want it?"

"Because I'm injured and don't know what's best for me," she stated solemnly as she looked into his eyes.

He let his hand slide down over her stomach and between her legs, letting rough fingertips trail over her lips. She gasped and leaned her head back over his arm. He smiled, "Mm, you feel so good."

He rubbed her clit gently, sliding a finger into her slowly. He smiled as he watched her reaction, rolling her clit back and forth in his fingers. She bit her lip, moaning, eyes closed, breathing hard. He leaned in as she looked up, her eyes showing passion, and kissed her hungrily. He slipped another finger into her as he explored her mouth with his tongue. She cried out into his mouth and he lifted his lips from hers only slightly.

"Are you ok, honey?" he whispered.

She moaned, nodding, "yes, I'm fine. I'm more than fine."

He pushed his fingers in again, rubbing up against her spot, listening to her moan louder and watching her eyes widen. "Do you like that, baby?"

She nodded, unable to say anything else as he dragged his hand over her clit. He nibbled at her neck as her body tightened. He rubbed fast, harder, and pushed in deeper. Her body tensed, and she moaned, reaching climax as he kissed her. Her body shuddered one last time, and she pulled away, smiling up at him. 

"You're supposed to be cleaning me up, not making a bigger mess," she whispered.

"We'll get there," he smiled. He took a cloth and rubbed some soap into it, then rubbing it gently all over your body. She watched his face as a small smile spread across it. 

"Can you wash my hair?"

"Sure, baby," he smiled wider. He picked up a pitcher, filled it with water and gently poured it over her hair. He was careful to not let it spill over her face as he heard her contented sigh. He filled his hand with soap and started to massage it into her hair gently, making sure to avoid her injury. He massaged softly, smiling at her level of relaxation. 

As she felt him carefully rinse it, she slowly sat up, and he moved around to face her.

"Ready to get out?"

She nodded, "thank you." 

"Welcome, baby. Ok, arms around my neck," he instructed. 

She shook her head, "you'll get all wet."

"It's ok."

She wrapped them carefully around his neck. He stood and pulled her to her feet. She gasped, "be careful of your leg!"

He quickly wrapped her in a big, soft towel and kissed her forehead. "It's ok, my love." He started to rub her down gently, drying her off. 

She giggled as he continued to rub longer than necessary. "I think I'm dry." 

He laughed, scooping her up and taking her into the bedroom. 

"James! I can walk," she squealed.

"I know," he smiled, "and I can carry you." He laid her in the bed and grabbed another gown out of the dresser. He lifted her gently and slipped it over her head and tied the front closed, laying her back. He watched her get comfortable as he dried his arms off with the towel, and then flopped down in bed next to her. 

She glanced over at him. "You're probably hungry," she noted.

He shook his head, "I'm fine, and I'll eat in a bit." He took her hand gently, and she squeezed it. 

"But I don't have to stay in bed anymore, baby. I'm ok," she stared into his eyes as she spoke. 

He nodded, standing and grabbing Cappy with one hand while offering her his other. She took it and slowly stood, walking carefully from the bedroom. 

She smiled over at him, "wow, this is what the rest of the house looks like. I'd forgotten," she winked. They walk together down into the den, where she takes a seat on the sofa. 

"Want a drink, love?

She shook her head. "I'm ok, but you should make yourself some food."

"If I eat, you're going to eat as well." He stood, hands on his hips, "so what would you like to eat babe?"

"I'm not really hungry for anything. I guess I'll eat whatever." 

He got up and walked into the kitchen. He made some sandwiches and came back with them, only to find her curled up asleep on the sofa. He smiled, walking back into the kitchen and put hers in the ice box. Walking back into the living room, he sat down in the chair so as not to bother her, and proceeded to eat his. Cappy was curled up against her side, but when he saw food, he sat up and wagged his tail. James tore off a small piece of meat and held it out to him. Excited, he stood and barked, waking Isabella from her slumber.

"Bad dog," James laughed, shaking his head. "Sorry, honey."

"It's OK. Guess I fell asleep again, huh?" She stretched, sighing, "I don't get it, I never sleep this much."

"Well, as I recall, it is a sign of pregnancy." A slow grin stretches across his face as he makes the observation. 

Her eyes widened, "what? But I'm not...."

"Are you sure?" he asked.

She shook her head and smiled. "No, I'm not. I... I guess I'm the one going to see Doc in the morning."

He leaned over and kissed her cheek. "Are you ready for your sandwich?

She nodded, so he hurried into the kitchen and returned with it, handing it to her. She smiled as she took it, picking it up and taking small bites. She ate slowly, and then stopped, a surprised look crossing her face. She gasped and then got up, running to the bathroom.

"Honey?" he followed as fast as he could, getting to the door just as she slammed it. He tapped the door, "honey are you ok?" He winced as he heard some very clear sounds in answer to his question. "Aw, baby..."

A few moments passed before he heard the sound of water running. The door opened just after, and she leaned against it, looking up sheepishly. "Ok, so maybe you're right."

A wide smile grew across his face, "I'm sorry you were sick, baby."

"No you're not!" She laughed loudly.

He reached out and pulled her to him. "Yes, I am. But I'm also excited as hell." He hugged her tight and kissed the top of her head. 

"Well, get used to it. Me being sick, I mean." She leaned her head against his shoulder, "I'll have to go into town tomorrow."

He nods, "I'll take you. I saw a buckboard wagon in the barn. Is it ok to use it?"

"Of course! It was Daddy's, it should be fine."

"Ok, we'll go into town after chores in the morning. See the Doctor. I wanted to get your head looked at anyway, baby."

She stepped back and looked up at him. "Mine? What about you and your bum leg?"

He smiled, "don't start, baby." He helped her back to the couch and sat next to her, sliding his arm around her waist. He pulled her close and laid a soft kiss on her temple. "We're gonna have a baby."

She smiled nervously, and placed a hand on her stomach. Her wide eyes glanced up at him and she whispered, "It's so soon. Do you think we're ready?"

He placed his hand over hers on her stomach, looking deep into her eyes. "Yes. I know it's soon baby, but we are without a doubt ready. You are going to be a wonderful Mama."

She smiled, badly wanting to believe him. "How do you know?

"I just know," he softly kissed her forehead.

Looking down at her stomach, she nodded. "I hope so. I didn't have an example for long." She glanced up at him, "I mean a mom, anyway."

He cupped her face in his hands and whispered, only for her. "I know you'll be a great mom, Isabella. I just know."

She leaned in and kissed his lips softly, but urgently. Sliding her arms around his back, she allowed him to deepen the kiss and pull her into his arms. He nibbled gently at her lip and she sighed softly into his mouth. 

He pulled away, breaking the kiss for just a moment. "I'm going to carry you to bed, ok?" Without waiting for a response, he scooped her up and carried her slowly up to their room.  He gently lowered her onto the bed, pushing off his boots and climbing in with her. She pulled him down close to her. He smiled down at her, "hi honey."

She smiled, whispering "hi," as she pulled him in and kissed him once again.

"I think someone is feeling a little naughty." A slow grin broke out across his face. 

"Maybe," she whispered.

He ran his hand up her side, his rough palm grazing bare skin as he looked deep into her eyes. Every place he touched felt as if it were bursting into flame and she arched into his touch. He whispered softly into her ear, "arms up, baby."

She lifted them carefully, and he slowly pushed her shirt off, letting his hands drag over her sides. Her eyes closed as she sighed, relaxing into his touch. Her sigh made him smile and he bent and began to lick each nipple slowly, making her moan. He looked up into her eyes, and she met his as she looked down. He took a nipple into his mouth, holding it between his teeth and teasing it with his tongue slowly. She arched her back, and moved her hands to the back of his head.

He whispered, "like that, baby?" 

She nodded her head emphatically, "Oh yes!"

He kissed down over her stomach, down her muscular legs, and then back up. He licked softly along the inside of her knee. She moaned and he kissed up to between her legs, already able to feel the heat. He kissed all the way around, but never quite touched her lips. She whimpered loudly as he began blowing cool air over her wetness. He then again kissed all the way back around, a little closer this time. Finally, he gave her what she was pleading for and dragged his tongue the length of her lips, and twirled it gently around her throbbing clit. 

She gasped and reached down to grab his hand. Pulling him to her, she looked up at him with wide, glazed eyes. "Please," she whispered, "I want you."

Unable to deny her, he crawled up over her. She could feel the head of his hard shaft pressing at her lips, and she moaned. Her legs spread open as he pushed against her, sliding in slowly. He spread her further open with every inch, leaning down to kiss her deeply as he pushed. She moaned loud into his mouth and wrapped her legs around his waist, pulling him deeper still. He pulled back, slowly. Hs length was nearly removed from her before he pushed in again in one deep thrust. She cried out and buried her face in his shoulder as he began to thrust in and out, over and over. He pushed deeper into her with every plunge, grabbing her shaking hips and moaning as he kissed her, so eager for her taste and for her body. He wanted to feel every inch of her, wanted to stay inside her forever. Her back arched, and she clamped down on his member, crying out as she came. As she began to shudder and spasm beneath him, he groaned lowly, and released his seed inside her. As they came down from their highs, he collapsed against her, slowly pulling out and rolling to the side.

"Wow, baby..." he smiled over at her. She grabbed his hand and smiled back. She turned on her side and curled up against his side. He placed a gentle kiss on the top of her head and asked, "you ok, honey?"

She smiled wide and nodded, leaning up to kiss his lips lightly. "I'm wonderful."

He pulled her closer to him and smiled. "You know, we're going to wear each other out at this rate."

She giggled and nodded, "not to mention, we could scare the baby." She slid her arms around his waist and frowned. "Are there more chores to do outside?"

He shook his head, "not that I can think of. At least none that need my immediate attention."

"Good," she smiled. She laid her head back on his chest and slid her arm over his stomach.  

"Think a nap would be a good idea?"

She nodded and closed her eyes, as he pulled a sheet over them and wrapped his arms around her tight. 

"Leo and Beauty haven't been out much these past few days. They'll be angry with us." Her statement was simple, but there was a hint of something more behind it. He chose to let it pass without comment.

"They'll live," he shrugged. He disappeared under the covers for a moment and kissed her belly gently before resurfacing. 

Smiling, she asked him, "Do you think it's a boy or a girl?"

"A boy," he nodded, his face serious.

"How do you know?" she asked.

He placed his hand on her stomach, "because he just told me so."

A wide grin took over her face and she laughed. "Oh, well if that's the case it must be true." 

They settled into one another, falling asleep. Their bodies were twined together as if they had never been apart.



Love Rides a Chestnut Horse Ch. 06



Hours later, long after the sun had gone down, James slipped from the bed, pulling on some pants and walking downstairs with Cappy following. The two wandered onto the porch, where James scooped him up and sat down with the puppy on his lap. He looked up at the bright stars twinkling down at him, and sighed. 

"Think I'm ready to be a dad, short stuff?" He looked down at the tiny dog, who wagged his tail in response. 

Upstairs, Isabella awoke to find an empty space in the bed next to her. She looked around, calling out, "Baby?" She climbed out of bed and padded down the stairs, hearing his voice on the porch. She stopped in the doorway and listened as he continued to talk to Cappy. 

"I think I'm ready. But this is a big job, even bigger than being a husband I think. I mean yeah , I can raise a colt or a dog, but a kid....." His voice drifted off and he shook his head, unaware that he was being overheard. "I just want to be the best dad to the baby and the best husband to her I can be. You know, Cap? I just hope I can give them all they need. I mean, it's just been me for close on to 5 years now. Just me and Leo, and now suddenly I have everything I've ever wanted."

In the doorway, Isabella smiled softly to herself. She didn't want to interrupt the moment, but couldn't help thinking how very right he was. Just as she was about to back away from the door and head back upstairs, Cappy saw her and barked. 

James patted his head, "shush, you'll wake her."

She smiled, opening the door and walking slowly out onto the porch. "Too late for that," she whispered.

"Sorry, baby." He watched her graceful movements as she crossed the porch to hm.

She shook her head, "it's ok." She picked Doc up off his lap and held him while she settled onto his knees. He wrapped his arms around her, pulling her close. She looked down into his eyes as she placed his hand on her stomach. 

"You're going to be an amazing dad," she stated as he blushed, embarrassed that she had heard. "And an amazing husband."

"How do you know I'll do so great?" he asked.

"Because you've taken better care of me in the last week than anyone has in my whole life," she squeezed his hand. "You're a natural, baby."

He pulled her close to his chest. "You're very sweet," he smiled.

"No, I'm very honest," she shook her head. "After mama died, daddy was good at providing a home. But I took care of myself." She paused, then whispered, "and him, usually."

He leaned up and kissed her cheek gently. "Well, I'm here to take care of you now."

She laid her head on his shoulder. "I know. You're going to do a great job taking care of all of us. But you have to let me take care of you too." A large smile broke across her face as she held the puppy to his, where he began to eagerly squirm, trying to lick James' face. "Cappy, too. He's very concerned."

He kissed her forehead then, and picked her up gently. He stood with her cradled carefully in his arms and they headed up the stars to their room. He lay her and the puppy down in the bed and walked around to crawl in from the other side. She lay Cappy down on the bed where he curled up to sleep, and held out her arms to the man she loved.

He scooted over closer, until he saw that his spot was being taken by the small dog. He smiled, "alright little man, down to the foot of the bed with you." He pat the dog's bottom as he walked down and she laughed. He pulled her against him and whispered in her ear, "goodnight, love."

She yawned, "good night. Stay here this time, ok? I don't like waking up without you." 

"Ok, baby. Sorry." He looked down at her to see that she was already fast asleep on his chest. He smiled, letting his own eyes close, soon falling asleep himself.

She awoke in the morning as the sun rose, sliding out of bed and heading into the bathroom. She was relieved to have finally awoken before him, and dressed to head outside. Since James's arrival she hardly felt as if she were pulling her weight on her own ranch. She slipped out of the room and headed out the door, just as James turned over to reach for her, and found Cappy instead. He looked confused for a moment, but then got up, hearing her move around.

"Where are you going?" he called out.

She stopped in the hallway, "um, outside?"

He jumped out of bed, "no you are not! Up here, NOW Isabella!" He walked into the hallway, but only saw her hair streaking out behind her as she ran down the stairs and out the door. He could hear her laughter as she made her way to the barn. 

He hurried down the stairs after her, screaming her name. With his limp, it took a lot longer than it should have to catch her, and by the time he was close enough to reach her, they were almost at the barn. He grabbed her arm and spun her around quickly to face him.

She gasped, wincing in pain at his hand on her arm. "James!"

"What?" his eyes were darker than she had seen them, and she tried to pull away from him.

Her eyes widened as she looked back up at him. "You.... nothing, never mind." Her voice drifted off as she blushed. Her eyes drifted down towards the hand that still gripped her arm tightly.

He let go, and began to gently rub where his hand had been. "I what?"

She shook her head, "you just.... You didn't need to grab me, that's all."

"I'm sorry, honey." His eyes held hers until she nodded. "Listen, though. We're going to have a baby. You have to think about that and protect it, honey. If you get hit by something, or fall, or God forbid get kicked again, so does the baby.... So, please, let me take care of the chores?"

Her face turned a deep shade of red in shame and embarrassment. She looked down at her belly, and placed her hand on it. "I'm sorry."

"No, honey. Don't be sorry."

Her eyes were wide and tear-filled as she stared up at him. "I.... I wasn't trying to hurt him."

He gasped, gently grabbing her shoulders. "Honey!" He pulled her close to him and kissed her forehead. "I know you weren't, that never even crossed my mind! God, I'm so sorry.  I didn't mean to hurt your feelings." He sighed, leaning down and resting his forehead against hers. "I'm so sorry, I just worry about you – and now, the baby, too."

She shook her head, "Baby, stop it, it's fine."

"It would kill me if anything happened to either of you. Especially if it were something I could have prevented." His eyes grew slightly haunted.

"Hey, we're fine. We're right here, and I promise that I won't do anything stupid. But you also have to remember that I'm used to taking care of things around here. Sometimes you have to let me help, just a little." She rubbed her hand up and down his arm. He looked up at her and smiled.

"Ok baby, come on." He held out his hand and she took it. Together, they walked into the barn. He handed her the feed scoop, "one for each of the guys while I get the hay down."

She smiled and nodded, turning to walk to the stalls.

"Hey," he called, waiting until she was looking at him before continuing. "I love you."

"I love you, too." The softest smile crossed her lips, and she watched him climb the ladder into the loft. She stood there in the middle of the barn, glancing between the two horses. She glanced at the stall where her own big black stallion stood and bit her lip. She backed away from him slowly, and made her way to Leo's stall instead.

From above, he watched her and his heart ached as he saw her indecision. He finished tossing the hay down into the stalls and descended the ladder, coming up behind Isabella as she stroked Leo's nose and spoke to him softly. James took the scoop from her hand gently, filling it and walking to Beauty's stall. 

"It's ok, Belle."

She glanced behind her as he made his way to Beauty, ashamed that she couldn't go and take care of her own horse. She was just still a little nervous around him, but she knew from experience that it would pass. The big black horse would win her over again in no time. She stepped into Leo's stall and began to brush him slowly, trying not to watch James with Beauty. She took a deep breath, trying to keep the tears from spilling over. 

Stepping into Beauty's stall, James fed him and leaned in to his ear. In a voice he thought she would not hear as he stared the horse down, he whispered, "ever breath on her the wrong way again and I will kill you." 

Across the way, her head snapped up. "You most certainly will not!"

He attempted to play innocent, "will not what?"

"You will not hurt him. You will not kill him. You will not touch him!"

"We'll see." He tried to dismiss the subject, but she would not let it go.

She stomped out of Leo's stall and grabbed his arm. "Stop! He didn't mean anything by it!" Her eyes shone with fear and anger as she glared up at him. 

"Honey, relax." He reached out for her hand, but she yanked it away. "Baby, don't do that, please."

She walked away from him, tentatively, and headed toward Beauty's stall.

"Isabella," he said, following at a distance as she began walking more determinedly. "Bella, stop."

She reached Beauty's stall in only a few steps, and smiled as he raised his head to greet her. But just as she reached out her hand to pet him, she felt strong arms at her waist, pulling her back. "It's fine, James. Just a minute."

"Honey," he pled, "at least let me come with you."

She did not respond, stroking her horse's nose. "I know, baby. I know you didn't mean it. I'm sorry I was scared." She laid her head against his nose. 

James stayed with her, hugging her gently from behind, rubbing her arms.

She turned to him. "See? He would never hurt me."

He stood close to her, watching Beauty the entire time. Even as the horse sweetly nuzzled her neck, making her laugh, he shook his head. "I still want to be with you when you're around him for awhile ok love?"

She glanced up at him, a confused and hurt expression on her face. She nodded slowly, in agreement anyway.

"I trust you completely, love. He's just going to have to earn my trust again." He lifted her chin until her eyes met his. 

"But he was just scared," she shook her head. 

"I know... just bear with me love."

She sighed but nodded. Reaching back, she grabbed his hand and squeezed. 

He wrapped his arms around her from behind and pulled her against him, holding her gently. "So, when do you want to go into town to the doctor?"

"I'm ready when you are," she smiled.

He studied her face. "Would you rather I go or stay here?"

She looked up at him, frowning. "Why wouldn't I want you there?"

"Well, if I come with you to the doctor that will definitely start rumors." He sighed, "now, I don't care about any of them, but I want to try and protect you as much as possible."

She shook her head, smiling, "don't worry about me. I've been the target of the town gossips for years. In fact, if they can get to you, they'll probably try to warn you away from me."

"Not a chance," he kissed her forehead. "I'll hitch Leo up to the buckboard, ok love?

She nodded, "thanks." She stayed with Beauty while he worked, brushing the stallion down slowly. He worked quickly, leery of leaving her alone with the temperamental horse for any period of time. He pulled the buckboard down the barn aisle by hand and left it out in front of the stalls. He then pulled Leo out of his stall and led him back in between the traces, finding a harness and quickly putting it on him.

Isabella watched Beauty, patting his neck as he whinneyed. "It's ok baby, not this time."

He checked and rechecked all the connections on the harness until he was satisfied, then turned back to call into the barn. "Ok babe, ready?"

She nodded, patting the stallion one last time and then coming out of his stall. She made her way around the wagon, taking his offered hand to help her up. When he was satisfied that she was safely inside, he climbed up next to her and grabbed the reins. He put his arm around her shoulder, pullng her close and placing a light kiss on her temple. He then shook the reins and clucked to Leo as he trotted out of the barn. 

"You're never going to forgive him, are you?" She lay her head on his shoulder to await the answer she knew was coming. 

"It'll be awhile." He gave a gentle squeeze as they trotted down the main drive, and she nodded.

"So names...." he looked down at her and smiled.

She laughed, "Well, I haven't really had time to think about it yet." Her hand went to her stomach.

"Well, we'd better start." He rubbed her arm in response as he turned onto the road to town. 

"We have 9 months," she shook her head.

He nodded. "Ok, well what color should we paint the baby's room then? I was thinking a green or a yellow, something good for a boy or a girl." 

She grinned, "yellow. No matter what we have, yellow will be nice." She then hesitated, as if she wanted to say something, but then closed her mouth.

"I saw it, Isabella."

She nodded, "I know. I'm trying to think of the best way to say it." She bit her lip as she thought about it. "I just want to prepare you for the way the people in town look at me. Daddy... well, he wasn't very welcoming." As she spoke, she saw the muscles in his arm tense up hard. She placed her hand there before continuing. "I mean, you've noticed that no one else works the ranch. Well, after mama died, he went a little crazy. It's just that people... well they assume I am, too."

He rubbed her knee gently as he listened. 

"I don't mind, it doesn't bother me," she looked up into hs eyes. "But i know it will bother you. So... I just wanted to warn you."

He nodded, still not meeting her eyes, so she continued. "Remember the day we met in the store? You probably didn't notice at the time... but when you came in, Shannon was the only one talking to me. All the others were sort of - huddled... in the back of the store." 

He squeezed her knee as he nodded. "I noticed."

"Of course you did," she sighed. "And you probably noticed the looks on all their faces when i offered you the job."

He leaned in and kissed her softly, "I did."

She slowly nodded again, and then glanced up into his eyes. "They'll look at you that way, now too."

He made a sound of disbelief in his throat. "They can try. I'm not so quiet and meek as you seem to think I am, my love."

She laughed, "Oh, I don't think you are." 

They settled into silence for a few moments, until he asked, "how long have you known the doctor?"

She looked up, surprised. "He was there when mama delivered me."

"So he knows you? Like truly knows you, he's not like the others?" At her nod, he smiled. "Good. So, what do you think the Doc will say?"

She smiled, "well, I think he'll tell us I'm pregnant."

He turned to her, his face serious. "Will he add comment past that? 'Preach.' if you will."

She shook her head. "He's a good man. Besides... we're getting married next week."

"This is true," he kissed her forehead and turned his attention back to the road.

"He's looking at your leg while we're there, too," she stated. "You're still limping," she noted as he began to protest. 

"It's just sprained, Belle."

She nodded, "so you say."

"So I know."

She smiled up at him, "Oh, I'm sorry. I didn't know you were a doctor."

He looked down at her solemnly. "I lived through a war. You learn things."

She blushed, looking down into her lap. "I'm sorry," she whispered."

"No," he reached out and took her hand. "It's ok, honey." He leaned over and placed a soft kiss on her lips. As he pulls away and looks up, they finally come into sight of town. 

She sighs, "Well, here goes nothing."

"Where is doc's?" he asked.

"It's just past the store."

He nodded and directed Leo to the little house past the store. He climbed down, and then reached up for Isabella. He watched her eyes widen and saw her take a deep breath as she looked up and saw a crowd exiting the store. He grabbed a hold of her waist and set her on the ground. As she stepped away from the wagon, she pulled her bonnet down as far as she could over the bruised side of her face. 

"You can't see it," he murmured. 

She nodded to show that she had heard, walking up the steps towards Doc's office. He followed closely behind, a hand gently at her lower back. As the usual whispers started up, she held her head high, and pressed the door to Doc's house open. She didn't see the hardened glare that met each glance and whisper in their direction. She walked into the house, sighing a little once they were both inside. The nurse stood as they entered, and Isabella smiled at her.  After approaching the desk, the two have a hushed conversation. The nurse smiled and nodded, leaving to get the Doc. Isabella turned and walked back to James, who was standing uncomfortably in the middle of the room, hat in hand. She gestured to a sofa under the window.

"Have a seat, baby."

He walked over to the sofa and turned, "So, I stay out here?"

She nodded, "he won't let you in there."

"Well, shoot," he sighed, sitting down on the couch. He rested his hat on his knee.

She stepped in front of him and reached down to take his hands. He reached up to her, smiling. "You're going in after me," she smiled. "I just want him to check you over. You had a bad fall."

"Ok," nodded. "But only for you, baby."

She leaned down, placing a gentle kiss on his forehead as an older man comes out from the back room of the downstairs. She straightened quickly, blushing as James stood up awkwardly next to her. The doctor laughed as he walked up to the pair and gave Isabella big hug. 

"Dr Thomas, this is James," she introduced. 

The doctor reached out his hand and shook James's while giving him a warm smile. James shook his hand firmly, keeping eye contact.

"Pleasure to meet you, sir."

"No, son," he smiles. "The pleasure is all mine. I haven't seen a smile this big on her face in years."

Isabella ducked her head and blushed.

"Well, she should definitely smile more. That smile can light up a room," he winked.

The blush deepened, and she laughed. She motioned for him to sit back down and headed into the back room with the doctor. 

James watched the door until it closed behind them, then sat back down fidgeting with his hat nervously. The nurse returned to her desk and eyed him curiously. He dared a glance out the window and saw someone look in as they walked by. Without pause, his lip curled back in a sneer and his eyes bore holes in them until they looked away quickly. He then looked back at the nurse and his face quickly returned to a smile, feeling sheepish. 

In the exam room, Isabella answers Dr. Thomas's barrage of questions, blushing often. He drew some blood to run a test and looked at the deep bruise and gash on her head. He cleaned and bandaged it, whispering to her softly about being more careful from now on. 

After what seemed like hours had passed, the door opened and James looked up to see her reenter the waiting room. He sighed with relief at the smile on her face, taking in the bandage on her head.

He stood, smiling at her nervously. "Hi, honey."

She looked up at him, the smile not wavering, and just nodded.

"Yes?" He felt the smile begin to spread across his face. 

She nodded again, and his smile grew.

"And now," she grinned, "it's your turn."

"Great," he muttered. "I'm so excited."

She nodded solemnly, "I can tell. Just do it for me, ok?"

He stood slowly, nodding. "Of course, baby."

The doctor stands in the doorway, waiting for James to limp his way over. He walked as normally as he could across the waiting room and into the exam room. Doc motioned for him to take a seat on the table as he closed the door behind him. 

"So, Bella tells me you took a fall. She seemed pretty worried about you." He smiled down at James as he began to run his fingers up and down his leg. 




Love Rides a Chestnut Horse Ch. 06



James sighed, "I was out riding the fence line when that storm hit. I was worried about her and was trying to get back as quickly as possible. My horse fell going down a hill when a mudslide hit."

Doc nodded as he continued. "He landed on me and we slid most of the way down the hill.  I hit my head on a rock."

He shook his head. "Well, that sounds a bit painful son. Mind if I take a look?"

"Have at it, sir." He rolled up his pant leg and the Doc ran his hands up and down it, searching for cracks or shifts in the bone. 

A few moments later, he stood. "Well, you'll be pleased to know you're correct. Nothing seems to be broken."

"I didn't think there was. I broke it in the war, so I know what it feels like when it's broken." 

He nodded solemnly, "I'm sorry to hear that, son. While we're here, can I check that cut on your head, too?"

"I suppose you'd better, for Belle's sake."

He poked and prodded for a few moments, cleaning out the cut. He pulled back and smiled. "There. It should be ok. I don't even think it'll scar badly."

James laughed a little, "What's one more scar? At least this one's not shaped like a bullet," he smiled.

He nods. "I've got a few myself son. I know what you mean." He sighed, "that girl out there though. That'll be her first. Well, first physical one, anyway – she's got a lot of the other kind."

James sighed, "I know, it kills me. That horse is lucky to be alive."

"Her daddy was always a good friend of mine, though he was a crazy old codger in the end." He laughed, shaking his head.

"She said a horse killed him or something to that effect." James was relieved to finally be talking to someone who could share information with him about the life Isabella had led. 

The Doc nodded, "Yes. It was that black stallion she loves so much. She's the only one who can ride him."

"Wait. Beauty killed her dad?

"Well, he tossed him pretty good. Hit a tree before he landed. There was nothing I could do by the time she got him here. She was just a mess. And she didn't take that horse home for a good two weeks." The Doc took in the intent manner in which James was listening to him, determining that this boy really did care for her. "She's a good kid, but she's always had too much placed on her shoulders. I trust a good man like you will see that that stops."

He laughed. "I'm trying my best, sir. But I'll be damned if she's not a hard headed thing."

Doc nodded, "yes, she's a lot like her daddy in that way."

"I told her she just needs to take care of herself and that baby from now on and that I can take care of the farm, "he stated in an exasperated tone.

Doc pat his shoulder. "Doesn't like to be told no, does she?"

James shook his head. "I've learned that fast."

"Well, son if she's let you in this far, I'd say you're golden." The Doc held out his hand for the younger man to shake.

James took it, "thank you, sir."

"We'll be seeing a lot more of each other over the next 9 months, I'd say," the Doc motioned to the door and they began to walk out. 

"Yes, sir. We'll have to have you out to the house for dinner some time soon."

Opening the door, the Doc smiled. "I'd like that, son. It's been years since I've been on that ranch." 

The two walked out into the waiting room, James still limping just a bit. 

"Hi, honey." He smiled as she stood.

Her eyes were wide as she looked up at him. "Everything ok?"

He nodded, pulling her close. "I'm fine, baby. It's just sprained."

"Ok," she sighed. Looking up, she hugged the Doc goodbye and the two headed out the door. 

He took her hand as they walked, looking down at her. "Do we need anything from the store?"

She nodded, "probably."

"Ok, what do we need, hon? Oh, by the way, I thought it would be nice to have doc out for dinner some night. Hope that's ok."

"Of course, that would be lovely." She tilted her head, thinking. "Well, you said we were running low on meat. Why don't you go over to the butcher and stock up some? Just tell them to put it on the bill. I'll go in and grab some things here."

He shakes his head. "You come with me. You're staying with me now." He pulled her close and placed a light kiss on her temple. 

She looked up at him. "But that'll take twice as long, honey."

"That's fine, we have time."

She sighed, "Well, then we best go to the store first, so the meat doesn't go bad while we're shopping."

He nodded, "It'll be ok, love. Let's go start your new life."



Love Rides a Chestnut Horse Ch. 07



They walked down the boarded sidewalk, and he opened the door for her to step into the store. She took a deep breath and stepped over the threshold, feeling the usual hush go over the room. He walked in behind her, meeting every look with a hard one. She walked without looking at anyone, directly to the aisles that held the things they needed at home. He stayed with her, holding the things she handed him. She looked back at the assortment of items he held and looked up into his eyes. 

"Can you think of anything else we need?"

He shrugged. "I don't think so, babe."

"How about clothes, baby? Do I need to buy fabric to make anything for you?" 

He shook his head, "I think I'm ok."

She nodded, and then pointed in the direction of the counter. 

"Wait, I do need some nails." He set the items on the counter and hurried back to the hardware aisle. He picked up a 5 lb sack of fencing nails and a new hammer. 

Her eyes widened and she looked up at him, "that's a lot of nails."

She grinned at him and then turned to Shannon nodding to her to make the list and tabulate the bill. Isabella arranged for the transfer from the bank. 

She looked up at him. "Are you ready, baby?"

He nodded and picked up the packages, smiling at her as they headed out. She turned and waved goodbye to Shannon as they headed out. He placed the groceries in the box behind the bench on the wagon. 

Turning back to her, he reached out his hand. "Ready to go to the butcher shop, honey?"

She nodded, taking his hand and falling into step beside him. As they reached the shop, she stepped back and allowed him to open the door for her to step inside. She sighed as she realized the shop was empty, and smiled. She looked back as he entered. 

"Just get whatever you like, honey. I can never decide."

He smiled, kissing her forehead. "Alright, baby." He walked up to the counter and ordered a selection of meat quickly and waited for it to be packaged up. As they walk out of the small shop, James glanced down at her. 

"How about you run in and invite Doc over for dinner some night this weekend?

She nods and is about to step onto the walkway to the office when the door opens at the store, causing the bell to ring. He heard her sharp intake of breath and saw her pick up speed considerably. 

"What the..." he murmured, walking along with her. He looked around, seeing a large woman in a bright floral dress and bonnet walking quickly up to meet them. While he watches, he can see Isabella waver, trying any way she can think of avoid meeting up with the woman. He pushed the package of meat under his arm and took her shaking hand in his. 

Despite their speed, she managed to reach doc's door just before the pair, and in a shrill voice declared, "Why Isabella Murphy, where HAVE you been? And where have you been hiding this strapping young man?"

Isabella blushed a deep red, as James looked from her to the woman and back. 

She squared her shoulders and looked up at the imposing woman. "Mrs. Sawyer, it's so lovely to see you." He was almost surprised that her voice is so perfectly composed and calm, especially considering how much her hand was shaking in his. He squeezed it gently, and smiled down at her.

"Oh, honey, we just NEVER see you anymore! I thought after... well, you know... YOU would at least get out more." The woman shook her head in disappointment. 

Isabella nodded her head, "well, sometimes it's hard to get away." Her voice drifted off toward the end, and James felt prompted to step between the two. 

"We haven't met. My name is James Buchanan," he started as he felt her hand on the back of his shirt, pulling. "Isabella hired me to take care of the farm and it seems we've taken quite the shine to each other."

She whispered, "James..." shaking her head back and forth.

He nodded, catching her meaning. "Isabella, that mare is due to foal, we really should get back so I can check on her." 

She sighed in relief, a grateful smile overtaking her face. "You're right," she nodded.

"Pleasure to meet you ma'am," he called out as he helped Isabella up into the buckboard and climbed on himself. He grabbed the reins and clucked to Leo and the horse took off. He glanced over, noticing the stiff position in which she was sitting. Her hands were shaking in her lap. He snapped the reins and Leo broke into a lope, taking them us out of town quickly. He glanced at her again. "So...?"

"I HATE that woman!!" Her voice shook with anger as she yelled. "She's the most horrible, evil, vile.... Ugh, I HATE her!" She pulled off her bonnet and threw it into the back of the wagon. 

"What happened, honey?" he asked softly. "Why do you hate her?"

She took a deep breath and began, "she's the one... after mama died..." She took another settling breath before continuing. "She went around telling everyone that the reason it drove daddy crazy was that he killed her. Or that it was his fault, at least. And they all believed her! And now she walks around like she's God's gift to this silly little town...." She trailed off, dropping her head into her hands.

He listened intently as she vented. "I'm sorry honey. The next time I'll tell her to go fuck herself," he stated bluntly before realizing he had said it out loud. He grinned, "sorry, babe."

She smiled at him and burst out laughing. "It's ok. You're allowed, but only about her."

He smiled back, "ok." He saw something by the side of the road and pulled Leo to a stop. He jumped down off the wagon and walked to the roadside, squatting down. He stood and turned around walking back over to the wagon, handing her a bouquet of bluebells. 

She blushed, smiling. "Thank you," she took it from him. 

"You're welcome, honey" he kissed her cheek softly as he climbed back into the wagon, settling next to her again and slapping the reins to take off again. 

She leaned against him as they rode away, her head on his shoulder. 

He took her hand and squeezed it gently. "We're gonna be parents."

She turned her head and lay a soft kiss on his shoulder. She nodded, "we are."

Finally, they pulled up in front of the house. He hopped down on one foot and reached his arms up for her. She leaned down and placed her hands on his shoulders. He grabbed her waist and set her down on the ground. She smiled up at him and he leaned down to kiss her cheek. He then reached into the box behind the seat and grabbed everything but the nails, following her toward the house. They walked inside and he put the meat in the icebox, setting the rest of the things on the table and unpacking them. 

She looked over and saw them, "baby, I can do that." 

"So can I, love." 

She shook her head, smiling. 

He continued putting everything away before walking over to her. "I'm going to go take care of Leo and turn him out." 

She nodded, "be nice to Beauty."

He shrugged, walking outside. He grabbed the reins and led Leo to the barn quickly, unhooking him and turning him out. He pulled the wagon into the barn, and put it waway. On his way out, he paused in front of Beauty's stall. 

He tilted his head as he studied the strong stallion. "How can one animal cause a family so much pain?" he murmured.

Back at the house, Isabella walked out on the porch and settled in the old rocker, pulling her knees to her chest. She saw him walk out of the barn and glance around, stretching in the sun and walking toward the house. She lay her head on her knees as she watched him approach. She smiled up at him as he came onto the porch. 

"Hi baby," he smiled. 

"Everything ok?" she asked.

"You bet," he leaned down and kissed the top of her head. He leaned back against the railing, facing her. "How about you, are you ok?"

She smiled, nodding. "Why wouldn't I be?"

He shrugged, taking a seat in the other rocker and reaching over for her hand. He propped his leg up on the railing in front of him. 

She leaned her head against the back of the chair as she looked over at him. "So... are you still happy to be marrying the daughter of the town nutcase?"

He grinned, "more than happy."

She raised an arched brow. "Really? The way all those people treat me doesn't bother you? Because now they'll treat you the same way."

"Well, that's going to stop."

She glanced at him, confused, "what?"

"How they treat you - that comes to an end." His eyes were serious, his voice stern.

She shook her head, laughing. "Baby, no - they're not worth it."

He nodded, still so serious. "No, THEY aren't. But you are."

She squeezed his hand, which he returned, gently. "It doesn't matter what they think now. I have you," she smiled. 

"But it does matter. It matters to me." He smiled warmly. He then looked up at the sky for a moment, and gave a contemplative sigh. He paused before he spoke again. "Belle, Doc told me something. Something about Beauty."

She looked down, laying her head back on her knees. 

He pressed on, "and about your Dad." He reached over and pulled her from her chair into his lap. 

Her voice was barely more than a shaky whisper as she responded, "he didn't mean it."

He was firm. "He's dangerous honey...."

"He's not," she shook her head. 

He nodded, "he is. He doesn't mean to be, but he is. He scares too easy."

She turned back and looked down at him. "Daddy was so proud to have gotten him."

"Baby, he's a beautiful animal, but he's too unpredictable," he pleaded with her. 

She shook her head, insistently. "But, he's never thrown me. He listens to me"

His eyes widened, "for God's sake, he nearly killed you because of a damn thunderstorm, Isabella!"

Hey eyes flashed with anger. "That wasn't his fault!"

"Yes. It was," he sighed. "You didn't see Leo going wild. Beauty just scares too easily, honey."

She looked away, feeling defeated. "But he was daddy's horse. He's the last thing I have."

"He's not going anywhere, baby." He held her tightly to him as he spoke. 

She looked down, "then what are you saying?"

He sighed heavily. "I'm saying that I'm not going to feel comfortable with you riding him when I'm not here, and it's going to worry me like hell for you to ride him when I am."

She blushed angrily. "He is my horse. He's the only one I ride."

"And he's dangerous!" He lowered his tone when he saw her eyes widen. "We can get you a new one."

She pushed her shoulders back, taking a deep breath. "I don't need a new one."

"He's dangerous." He leaned forward putting his head in his hands. 

As she sat quietly watching him, she felt tears spring to her eyes. She tentatively reached over to take his hand, but found herself still unable to look at him. 

"It scares me," he whispered, turning to see her nod. "I love you, Belle. But it scares me to death to see you ride him." He sighed, "Do me a favor? Let me ride him for awhile and you can ride Leo." 

She shook her head as she turned to him with wide eyes. "No. He doesn't let anyone ride him but me. That's what daddy was..." her voice drifted off and she looked away. "He was trying to prove me wrong." Her voice broke off. 

James pulled her tightly to his chest, rocking her gently. 

"You can't ride him," she shook her head against his chest. "Please don't."

He nodded, "ok, I won't. But I'm riding to town tomorrow to find us another horse. He felt her nod against his chest and rubbed her back softly. He leaned forward and kissed her sweetly. He sighed, "if I lost you, I don't think I'd make it."

She nodded, "you would."

He shook his head, pulling her eyes to meet his. "You're my life now. You're everything that is good to me."

She shook hers right back at him, "Baby, you haven't even known me that long."

His eyes widened with shock. "So what? I don't know what I feel for you?"

She gasped, then closed her own eyes. "No. No, baby, I don't mean that."

"Well, I sure as hell don't know what you mean."

She looked down, ashamed that she had insulted him in such a manner. She took a deep breath and looked back up at him. "All I meant was... you were ok before me. You'd be ok without me. That's all."

He took her hands in his. "I was far from ok."

She looked into his eyes. "Tell me about before."

"I was running away," he sighed. "I wanted to get as far away from home as I could. I saw my friends fall dead at my side. I saw the horrors and atrocities of war that no one should ever see." He looked up to see that she was listening intently, her eyes locked on his face. "I was barely a shell when the peace was finally signed. The minute I was discharged, I took Leo and we started riding west. We didn't stop till last week when I met you and you showed me that there was good left in this world."

She let the tears run freely down her cheeks, squeezing his hand. "I'm so sorry, baby."

He placed a gentle kiss on her forehead. His voice dropped to barely a whisper, "you're new soon to be husband is a trained killer Isabella. We weren't with everyone else. We ran alone, hid and lived off the land. We would hide in the trees and pick the enemy off when they marched through."

"You did your job, baby, that's all." She ran a hand through his hair as she spoke. 

His eyes were pained as he looked up at her. "Are you ok with marrying a killer?"

She leaned down and kissed his lips as he pulled her close. "Stop it. You are not a killer. You are the kindest, gentlest man I've ever met. You are the father of my child. That is the man I'm marrying. And there is no doubt in my mind that I love you, James Buchanan."

"I love you too," he whispered. "Would you like me to stop by Doc's tomorrow and invite him to dinner in a few days?"

She nods, a smile breaking across her face. "That would be nice."

"Better yet would you like to come along and help me pick out the new horse?"

She shook her head, "I trust you. Besides," she smiled sheepishly, "I hate going into town."

He laughed, nodding, and then grew thoughtful. "Would you like to see my things? From my life before?"

"Of course," she nodded. "I want to know everything about you."

He smiled, helping her to her feet. He led her inside and up to what was going to be his room. He saw the soft smile on her face as they entered it and leaned over and kissed her forehead gently. He reached under the bed and picked up a large leather bag, followed by another just as big. He opened one and drew out two polished 45's with mother of pearl grips in dark leather holsters. He set them on the bedside table and reached in and pulled out a few tin type photos. One showed only him, in uniform with a large rifle tucked under his arm and the pistols shoved through his belt. 

She kissed his cheek, "you're so handsome."

He smiled, "you can have it if you want." He held the picture out and she took it in her hand. 

"Of course I want it," she ran her fingers over his solemn face in the photograph. 

The next photo was of James and two other men his age, "that's Matt and Ben, we grew up together."

She nodded and placed a soft kiss on his shoulder. 

"Matt was killed two days before General Lee surrendered, Ben died early on in the war." His voice was soft. 

"I'm so sorry, baby," she whispered. 

He nodded, setting the picture aside. He then pulled out his uniform; the chest pinned with several medals, and set it on the bed. That was followed by a canteen with the rebel flag on it. He sighed, "that's pretty much all I kept. I don't know why I kept the uniform."

She squeezed his hand, "maybe you don't have to know why."

He then reached over and picked up the guns, setting them on the bed. He slipped one of them from its holster. He glanced down the barrel before flicking out the cylinder, 5 bullets in it with one spot empty. "Did your daddy ever teach you to shoot a gun?" He asked almost as if it were an afterthought. 

She nodded, swallowing hard, still looking at the gun. 

"Good," he flicked my wrist and slapped the cylinder back into the gun. "What's wrong baby?"

She shook her head, "nothing." Taking a deep breath, she answered, "I just don't like them. I mean, not yours. Just guns in general."

"Sorry, baby." He quickly put them away and pushed them back into the bag. 

She shuddered lightly and he rubbed her back. "What scares you about them so bad, love?"

"I had to use one once. Ever since, I... I just don't like them." 

He shushed her, "you don't have to talk about it, honey."

She shook her head. "It's ok, you should know."

He nodded. "Want to sit down in our room?" He watched how her expression remained focused on the bag that held the guns. He lifted it from the bed and pushed it beneath. "Come on, love." He placed his arm around her and led her into their room, settling her on the bed. Squeezing gently as she looked up at him. 

She took a deep breath, and began. "I was about eighteen and Daddy was gone for the weekend. He went out of town - actually, it was when he went to see about Beauty. Whenever Daddy went out of town, he made me take all these 'precautions' to be safe. He really had this thing about people coming on the land." She paused to shake her head, "Mama's death messed with his head something awful. Anyway, one of his precautions was that I had to sleep with his gun under my pillow, in case I should need to use it. 

Well, one night, I was asleep and I heard someone in the house. I just thought Daddy had come home early. But then the door to my room opened and there was this strange man standing there. I didn't know what to do. He started toward my bed, and he was... LOOKING at me so strangely.... But he never said anything. I reached under the pillow and grabbed the gun. I only shot him once. But I hit him in a place... well, a place where men shouldn't be shot." She smiled slightly. "I wasn't actually aiming there, but it turned out to be pretty appropriate."

He held her tightly, glad that she was safe now. 

"And then I ran from the house. I got on daddy's old horse and rode to town, getting Doc. I brought him back, but by the time we got back to the house the man was gone. No one ever found him," she shrugged. 

"I'm sure he bled to death, dear. " Which is good, he thought to himself. 

"But they never even found his body," she stated. "How far could he have gotten?"

"If he had a horse, he could have gone miles." 

She nodded. "It took forever to clean up the trail of blood he left through the house." She sighed as she finished, looking up at him. "Since then, guns have always made me nervous. And sometimes I dream that he's standing over me again."

"I'm so sorry, honey." He pulled her into his lap, rocking her gently. He stared down into her eyes. 

She smiled softly, "I'm ok. It was a long time ago."

"You look tired, baby," he noted, brushing her hair back. "Why don't you lie down for a little while?"

She looked up at him, a hint of suspicion in her eyes. "Why? What are you going to do?"

"Probably nap with you," he laughed.

She nodded. "Oh... Well, that's ok then. I thought...."

He raised an eyebrow. "Thought what, love?"

She blushed, "I thought you were trying to distract me so you could go 'take care' of Beauty."

He shook his head, rubbing her arm. "I was thinking we might have him gelded. It might calm him down some, relax his nerves."

"Daddy didn't want him to be. He...," she sighed. "Well, I guess it doesn't matter much what Daddy wanted anymore, does it?"

"But it does matter what you want, Belle," he smiled as he squeezed her hand.

She looked up into his eyes and shrugged. "I don't know what I want. At least not when it comes to him. I mean, he's always been good for me, for the most part. But he's a disaster to most other people."

"We don't have to make a decision now, baby," he assured.

She nodded, "I'll think about it, ok?"

He kissed her forehead and slid off his boots and shirt. He lay down in the bed and stretched out, yawning. 




Love Rides a Chestnut Horse Ch. 07



Isabella slipped off her heeled boots. She looked over her shoulder at him. "Can you unbutton the back of my dress, sweetie?"

He slid carefully over and made quick work of the buttons, then gently pulled it off her shoulders. She let it slide off, and then walked over and hung it carefully in the wardrobe. She turned back to him, left in only her corset and underskirts. She slide into bed with him and he rubbed her arm. 

"You want your corset off too, honey? I can't imagine that you can sleep well all crushed in like that." 

She smiled, "you'd be surprised. But ok, that would be good."

He untied the laces and loosened the corset, carefully pulling it over her head. She got up and placed that in the dresser, and then slid into bed and into James's arms. He wrapped them tightly around her and fell asleep almost instantly. Just as she was nodding off as well, Doc yipped from the floor. She carefully slipped out of his arms, and picked the small puppy up. She set him gently onto James's chest and slid back into bed with him. She smiled as she curled up in his arms, watching Doc nod off as well. After only a few minutes, she fell fast asleep as well. 

It was a short time later that she awoke suddenly, jerking upright and gasping. James awoke with her, calling to her as he saw the wild look of fear in her eyes. She shook her head as if trying to shake off the dream, and looked over at him. "I'm ok, go back to sleep."

He searched her face, "you had the nightmare."

She sighed, "it's no big deal."

He pulled her close to his chest and whispered in her ear. "Even if he comes back, which I'm pretty certain he won't, he won't walk away."

She shook her head, "it was years ago. He won't come back, I know that." She heaved a deep sigh, "I'm sorry I woke you."

He pulled her to his chest, and lay back down on the bed.

She glanced up at him, "it's fine babe, go back to sleep."

He raised an eyebrow, "are you going to as well?"

"Of course," she nodded. She lay against him, closing her eyes. He pressed a gentle kiss in her hair, running his fingers idly across her chest and stomach. She lay waiting to hear his breathing even out again, feigning sleep.

He sighed, "alright, what are you planning? You're just waiting for me to fall asleep."

She lifted her head, looking up at him. "No, I'm not."

"Bella... yes you are. I can feel it in your muscles," he spoke quietly as he rubbed her back. 

She sighed. "I'm not planning anything, baby. I just can't go back to sleep right now. I'm sorry."

He smiled, sliding out of bed. "Then come on. 

"Honey, it's the middle of the night," she looked up at him.

He shook his head, "if you can't sleep I'm not going to let you sit alone."

"But you need your rest," she chastised. "I'll be alright."

He sat on the bed's edge next to her, caressing her face. "Honey, I'm ok. I'd much rather spend time with you anyway."

She smiled, sighing. "Ok, fine." She slipped out of bed and led him from the room. She reached back, taking his hand, and led him down the stairs, through the house and out the backdoor. They walked silently past the barn where the animals were kept, the only sound that could be heard was their bare feet padding through damp grass. She led him back to the far barn, which he had assumed was no longer used because it was unsafe. He started to pull her back, but she turned and shook her head at him. She stepped forward and opened the door just a bit, slipping inside. He followed, and watched as she walked across the barn to the hayloft ladder. With a grin back at him, she climbed up the ladder. He followed her, his own grin widening, and when he reached the top he saw several pillows, a small crate and blankets set up under the open hole in the roof. 

"And when did you set this up?" He raised a teasing eyebrow in her direction. 

She laughed, shaking her head. "This is my spot. It's where I always come when I need to be alone from the world," she shrugged. 

"It's beautiful," he pulled her close and kissed the top of her head. He easily lowered himself to the blanket, pulling her down with him. 

"The hole has just gotten steadily bigger over the years," she continued. "Since daddy wouldn't let anyone here to fix it, it's just never been repaired."

He held her close to him. "I can put a frame around the hole if you'd like to leave it there."

She smiled, "I'd like that."

"Ok," he kissed her forehead as she turned to him.

She smiled and leaned up to kiss his lips, letting her hand slide down to his growing hardness. 

"I love you so much, Isabella." He groaned at her touch, his muscles tensing.

She smiled, moving her hand up and down over him. "Love you too, baby." Her hand reached into his pants, stroking him gently. His moans made her braver, and she smiled as she slipped over him, lifting the clothes over her head and tossing them from the loft. He stared, lust and hunger in his eyes and reached out to caress her body. She pulled his member from his pants, positioning herself over it and looked down at him.

"Do you want me to, baby?" she asked playfully.

His voice was more moan than whisper as he responded, "more than ever. Forever and always."

She smiled down at him, as she slowly parted her lips and pushed down against him. She slid down over him, encasing him in her velvet sheath. Her head fell back and she gasped. He reached up and gently grabbed her hips, pulling her to him as he pushed up. She cried out as he filled her completely, placing her hands on his chest as she looked down at him.

He groaned, "oh baby.... You feel so good." He stared up at her, enjoying the way the moonlight outlined her silhouette. As he watched, she began to move slowly up and down on top of him. He grabbed her bottom and pulled her deeper. He looked up into her eyes and moaned as she ground her body into him. He reached up and slipped his hand along her face, pulling her down for a desperate and hungry, passion-filled kiss. She returned it, the intensity of her hunger matching his. She continued to move up and down on him, faster and harder. Her breath caught in her throat as he pushed up to meet her, slamming into her hips. She looked down at him with wide eyes, her body tensing. He felt her stiffen both inside and out and felt her body begin to shake.  

He moaned as he watched. "Yes, baby." As he felt her quiver and spasm around her him, he knew his own release was imminent. He moaned her name loudly, shooting deep inside of her. Her body shook as she climaxed harder than ever before, and she collapsed down onto his chest, shivering and moaning. He wrapped his arms around her, holding her tight. He kissed her cheek as he panted, and helped her as she lifted herself off of him. She curled up against his side, he held her close and grabbed a blanket. He covered them up and kissed the top of her head. 

"Wake me if you need me."

She squeezed him gently, whispering, "I'll be fine, baby."

Reaching down, he lifted her chin until she was looking into his eyes. "Wake me. If you need me."

She smiled, "ok, ok. I will."

He nodded, then pulled her close and falling asleep with her on his chest. She smiled as she lay there, listening to his heartbeat and looking up at the stars. He stirred a little, opening one eye. He was about to tell her to go to sleep when he heard her sigh. She was looking up at the skies, not knowing she was being overheard. 

"Daddy, I don't know if you can hear me or if you've been watching.... I hope that you'd be happy about all that's been going on."

James lay completely still, having to remind himself to breath.

She heaved another deep sigh. "I know how you said no one but us could ever live here. But you'd like James, daddy. I know it. He takes care of me." Her voice caught on the next statement, "I know it wasn't your fault daddy, but you never did that. It's nice, being taken care of. I just... hope that you're ok, and you're proud of me, and that you're excited about your grandchild. That's all, Daddy. Tell Mama I miss her, too. "

At her whispered plea, his arm tightened instinctively around her and she froze. "James, are you awake?" she whispered.

"Just," he murmured, trying to fake that he was, in fact, sleeping. "You ok?" he asked.

"Did you hear anything just now?" she asked, her tone worried. She sighed with relief as he shook his head. "I'm fine, babe. Go back to sleep." She laid her head on his chest and closed her eyes.

He smiled as he finally heard her breathing out, laying his head back down, falling asleep himself.



Love Rides a Chestnut Horse Ch. 08



The next morning, he awoke as the sun came up, filling the barn with light. He looked over at Isabella, still sleeping next to him. He lay still, so as not to wake her, content with watching her sleep. She woke slowly, blinking over at him, and he smiled. 

"Morning, love." He rubbed her arm as he spoke. 

"Good morning," she smiled. She stretched her body, looking down as she did. She looked over at him. "It would appear that I have no clothes."

He grinned, "yeah you threw them out of the loft last night."

"Well, why did you let me do that?"

He laughed, "well, because you were naked and I was preoccupied with that." 

She giggled with him. "Oh, right. Well, I guess I can't fault you then."

"Nope," he shook his head.

She wrapped the blanket around herself. "We should get back inside; Cappy's probably pacing in front of the door. Hey!" She gasped as he yanked the blanket away from her, going down the loft ladder as fast as he could. "Baby, stop!" She hurried down the ladder after him, reaching the bottom as he stopped and turned to look at her. 

"Uh, your clothes aren't here baby," he tried to hide the smile spreading over his face.

"What?" Her eyes widened as she looked around. "How could they not be here?"

He snickered as he pointed at the floor, showing her raccoon track leading out the door. 

"Those filthy rodents!" she gasped angrily.

"Actually honey, they're very clean. She turned to glare at him and saw that he was slowly backing out of the barn, still holding the blanket.

"Baby!" she cried. "I need that!"

He grinned evilly from the bright sunlight outside the barn. "Then come and get it."

"No!" She stared out at him, "I can't go out there like this!"

He kept backing further away from the barn, an evil grin on his face. 

Her face flushed deeper, "baby, stop. Please? Come on!"

He held the blanket out to her, watching her subtle steps into the light. As she got closer, he yanked it away and held it high over her head. 

"James, this is NOT funny!" she whined angrily as she stomped her foot.

He shook his head, "oh, but it is, honey." His resolve faltered a little as he saw her lower lip tremble, but held out. "Oh baby, don't pout." He turned and walked toward the house.

"James!!!" she called at his retreating back. She watched as he picked up speed. "Stop this, now!!!"

"CAN'T HEAR YOU!"

She took a deep breath and pushed open the door. She ran at him thinking she may be able to catch him with his bad leg. She could see the house getting closer and ran faster. She saw him run up the steps, stumbling, but staying on his feet. He got to the door and rushed inside, closing the door behind him. She was only seconds behind him, but when she reached the porch, she gasped, coming to a halt. Much to her dismay, she found herself face to face with Mrs. Sawyer and the ladies group from town. She bit her lip, looking down at her body and then back up at them. She heard the door open and felt James move up behind her. She took a deep breath and pushed him back. 

"I can handle it, honey," she assured. ""Mrs. Sawyer, ladies, what a pleasant surprise, how can I help you?" She addressed the women as if nothing is wrong as they stared back at her with wide eyes. "Well, you must have had a purpose in coming here."

From behind her, she heard a snarl. "Are you going to answer her or just stand there looking stupid?"

"Baby, hush" she soothed. "I'm sure that Mrs. Sawyer and the other women just came out so they could go back into town to spread rumors about crazy Patty Murphy's crazy daughter. Well, it looks like I've given you a doozy. But know this when you tell it," she stated calmly as she took a step toward the women, causing them to back away in shock. "I'm not crazy. I'm a normal young woman with normal desires and needs, and a gorgeous fiancé with which to share them. So you can just run along back to town and tell people whatever you want. I don't care anymore." 

With that, she opened the door and walked inside. James smirked at the women and followed her in, smiling from ear to ear. He found her leaning against the wall inside the door, breathing hard.

He grabbed her shoulders, "Baby, you were great!"

He saw the tears leaking down her face as she looked up him. 

"I can't believe I did that."

"Oh, honey, don't cry." He pulled her close to him, hugging her tight.

She shook her head, "she's going to tell everyone." She freed herself from his arms, sliding down the wall to the floor. 

"Honey, I'm sorry. That was my fault."

She looked up at him as he squatted in front of her. "No, it wasn't. They were just being nosy. That woman hasn't been on this property in years," she shook her head. "She would have just found some other rumor to spread. I'm not mad at you, baby."

"I damn sure should have heard and or seen that wagon come up," he sighed. 

She shook her head, "honey, they've probably been sitting there since the crack of dawn just waiting for something they could use. You couldn't have known that. Please, stop beating yourself up. Do you KNOW how LONG I have wanted to stand up that that woman?"

He grinned, "well, I'm glad you did." He stood, reaching down for her. 

"Did you see the look on her face?" She laughed as he swung her up into his arms, carrying her up to their room and laying her on the bed. Doc awoke and ran over to her, licking her face as she laughed louder. She lifted him up, smiling up at her boys. "Well, should we head out for chores?"

"I'll do them," he assured.

"I can help," she smiled.

He walked to the wardrobe and started to get dressed. "You know," she smiled, "I think old Mrs. Davidson was checking you out."

"Oh?" he raised an eyebrow, pulling a shirt on and glancing back at her. 

She nodded, "I haven't seen her look that excited in years." She reached down to the end of the bed and grabbed a nightdress hanging there, slipping it on. 

"That's what you're doing chores in?" he asked.

"You told me you were doing them," she smiled. 

He looked back at her as he pulled on clean pants. "You said you wanted to help."

"No, I said I could," she shook her head at him. 

He walked over to her and kissed her on top of the head. "Ok, mama. You stay here."

She laughed, "I can come, just give me a second." She stood and opened her mouth to speak, but then her eyes widened. She ran to the bathroom with her hand over her mouth. 

"Aw, baby." He followed quickly, pushing the door open. Kneeling at her side, he held her hair, rubbing her back. 

Her whole body shook as she retched, and then she laid her head against the cool porcelain. "On second thought, maybe I'll stay here," her voice was a quiet whisper.

James reached up to the sink, getting a cloth and running cold water over it. He started to stroke your face with the cloth, rewarded with a smile from her flushed face. 

"I'm ok," she whispered. "He's just reminding his mama that he's in there."

"I know," he nodded, stroking her lips gently with the cloth. "Want a sip of water?"

She nodded slowly, "Please." She sat up as he filled a glass. He held it to her lips and allowed her to drink it slowly.  He gently brushed her hair out of her eyes and she smiled.

"Go," she scolded. "I'm fine."

He shook his head, "I'm staying.

"You wanted to go into town today."

He smiled, "it can wait."

She laughed, "Baby, I'm fine. This is normal."

"I know," he rubbed her arm. "I want to experience everything that comes with this."

She smiled, "do you want to be the one throwing up? Because that would make me feel better."

"If I could, I would."

"I know, baby." She reached out and took his hand. "I'm ok, now." She pushed herself off the toilet, standing with his assistance. He kept an arm around her as he led her back to their bedroom. 

"Do you want me to come help?" she asked as she looked up at him. "I feel ok now."

"No honey, you fix breakfast. I'll do the chores."

She nodded in agreement as he continued, "we'll eat and I'll go get a new horse and invite the Doc to dinner. You sure you don't want to come?"

She smiled, "maybe I do now. I mean, someone should be there to tell my side of the story."

He smiled, kissing her cheek. "Yes, I agree. Alright good, you can help me pick the horse. Want to ride double?"

She looked over at him, eyebrows raised.

"Leo," he corrected. "Ride Leo double. Naughty woman."

She shrugged, smiling. "You go do the chores. I'll make us some breakfast."

He kissed her lightly and walked out the door, trotting off the porch and out to the barn. She walked into the kitchen, opening the ice box and pulling out the milk and eggs. She grabbed the flour from the pantry and began to mix up the batter for pancakes. She paused for a moment to reflect on how much different her life was now. 



Love Rides a Chestnut Horse Ch. 09



About half an hour later, James was tying Leo at the rail while Isabella placed a tall stack of pancakes on the table. He walked in and sat at the table, smiling up at her. "Yummy," he grinned. 

She pulled out the butter and some syrup, putting a plate in front of him. "Dig in, baby."

He began to eat, looking up at her. "These are great, honey." 

They ate in comfortable silence until she finished her smaller stack and kissed his cheek. "I'm going up to get ready." She headed up the stairs and into the bedroom. She pulled off her nightdress, slipping into her riding skirt and a top that wasn't nearly as "proper" as she would normally wear. 

Downstairs, James finished eating and cleared the dishes. He walked into the living room and sat down to wait for her. He heard her on the steps and looked over his shoulder at her. He nearly tipped the chair over backwards upon seeing her blouse. He flailed wildly, then somehow caught himself and leaned back forward. "My, my..." he murmured under his breath.

"You ok?" she smiled. 

"Yeah, they're gonna get an eyeful in town, though." He laughed, walking over to her. 

She looked down, "it's not that bad." She glanced at the sleeveless shirt that instead of closing at the throat closed just above the swell of her my breasts.

He shook his head, "I don't know, I can see the hills and valley pretty well."

"Are you complaining?"

He laughed as he opened the front door for her. "No ma'am, not a damn bit. Let's go."

She smiled as she followed him outside. She paused to glance wistfully toward the barn. 

"Come on, love," he called.

With one last look, she turned and walked to where he had pulled Leo away from the rail. He kissed her cheek. 

"He's going to be so hurt when we come back with a new horse," she sighed.

He shook his head, "he'll know why." He grabbed her waist, throwing her up on Leo's back and then swinging up behind her.

"He'll think I gave up on him," she sighed once again as she leaned back against him. 

James nudged Leo as they took off for town at an easy gait. He held her close while they rode, smelling her hair.

She looked back at him and asked, "Do you really think he'll know why?"

He nodded, "absolutely."

"How?" she asked.

"He's a smart horse, and horses are smarter than people give them credit for," he stated simply. "But what will he think?" She stared up at him, "in his mind, why are we getting a new one?"

He shrugged, "because he hurt you."

She nodded, "I know that he's sorry."

"I know that, too baby." He rubbed her am gently, "but that doesn't make him any less dangerous."

"Now enough sadness," he smiled. "Today is a happy day."

"It is?" she questioned. 

"Yes! You showed up the old bitch. We're having a baby. Doc is coming over for dinner soon. We're getting a new horse and we're getting married in a week and a half." He kissed the back of her neck as she laughed. 

She nodded, smiling wide. "You're right. Today is a happy day."

He nudged Leo to an easy lope. As the old horse begins to run, she noticed a scar running along his shoulder she you hadn't noticed before, as well as 2 or 3 small circular ones. She gently ran her fingers over it, and looked back at James. "What happened?"

"Well, let's see," he stated thoughtfully as he looked down. He pointed to the two small circular ones. "Those are bullet wounds." He reached further down to the longer one, "and that was a spear wound."

Her eyes widened as she looked back at him. She took James's hand.

He looking down at her, "what honey?"

She shook her head, "nothing. It's just that you could have died, and then we never would have met."

"I almost did die," he murmured as he looked out at the skyline for a moment. 

Her eyes widened, and she took a deep breath. "Baby?"

He rubbed her arm as he pointed to the spear scar, slowing Leo to a walk. "We were in an especially intense battle and I got knocked off. I was turning around to shoot the man that knocked me off, but as I turned I saw a union soldier with a spear. He was coming right for me, but Leo lunged in front of me. He took the spear in his chest and I killed the man."

Tears filled her eyes, "I'm so sorry."

James pulled Leo up and led him to the side of the road. "We're both still here, honey. He's a bit worse for the wear, but he's a tough old guy."

She leaned down and pat his neck gently. "He's a good horse. I get it now," she turned and looked up at him. "He'd never hurt you." 

"Or you," he noted. 

She bit her lip, struggling with her next statement. "Maybe we should just get rid of Beauty altogether. I mean, with a baby coming..." she drifted off, tears filling her eyes again. She shook her head, "he's just not careful."

He squeezed her tight. "Baby, we can try and geld him first. That should calm him down a lot." He paused for a moment, considering. "Or do you just want to be rid of not only the horse but the bad memories, too?"

She sighed, "I have good memories with him, too."

"We'll go talk to the vet, have him come out and geld him," he kissed her shoulder. 

She nodded. "Ok."

"I don't want to see you sad," he whispered into her ear as he nuzzled into her neck. "I think you would be sad if he was gone."

She leaned back into him, and he kissed her cheek and the approached town. "Oh, and I forgot to tell you the best part of the story! For his bravery Leo was awarded a special commendation. Which I suppose doesn't matter now that the confederacy is gone." 

"Hey," she chastised. "Of course it matters! Congratulations, Leo," she patted his neck softly.

The big horse looked back and grunted, making them both laugh. James paused, "let's see, Doc's first?"

Isabella nodded, "sounds good."

He wheeled Leo at a trot up to Doc's tie rail, and they both saw the group of ladies in front of the store. She smiled, watching the whispers begin, and James gave a grandiose wave as he swung down. She laughed loudly as he reached up and lifted her off. He set her softly on the ground, and she leaned up to kiss his cheek. She then walked up the stairs into the doc's office and he followed, patting her backside moments before they walked in. 

She laughed, "You are not helping."

Doc heard the two of them and walked out of his office, looking between the two and smiling wide. "Well, I didn't expect to see you two again so soon."

Isabella approached him and gave him a big hug which he returned. James smiled as he saw her lovingly interact with someone else. He cleared his throat, "Doc we came by to ask you out to the ranch for dinner."

He smiled again, "well that would be a pleasure! When would you like us?"

He glanced at Isabella, and she nodded. "How's tomorrow night?"

He nods, "should be fine. I'll have to check with Mrs. Doc of course." He glanced down at the young woman before him. "I heard you had a big morning, little lady," he joked, laughing loudly as she turned red. 

James joined him in laughter and glanced down at his blushing bride. "Everyone knows already, then, huh?"

He paused. "Wait, you mean it's true?" His eyes widened, and he laughed louder. "Why, Isabella Murphy, as I live and breathe! Your daddy would have LOVED that."

James winked, teasing. "Call it youthful indiscretion."

Doc let out a loud guffaw. "Call it whatever you want, kids. I but call it a victory. Now, Isabella, Sarah had something she wanted to give you, why don't run up and see her?"

She nodded, winking at James and hurrying upstairs. As she walked away, the young man grew nervous. He was suddenly aware that after what had taken place this morning, he was now standing in front of the closest thing to a father that Isabella had. He tried to hide it, but felt himself swallow hard. 

Doc saw it and smiled. "You can relax, son. I'm not going to give you a lecture."

James sighed loudly and then laughed. The laughter died on his lips though as he noticed Doc's face turn serious. "I don't know quite what you've done to Isabella. But I haven't seen a smile like that on her face since she was just a little girl. Before her mama died and her daddy lost his marbles she was just a normal, happy child. I can finally recognize that child again in her smile. So thank you for bringing her back." Doc clapped James on the shoulder and squeezed, holding out his other hand for the younger man to shake.

James shook it firmly. "She brought me back too, sir. I was running from the remnants of the war, not intending on stopping. Then I found her."

Doc nods, "love can do that, son. Now, we'd be happy to come to dinner tomorrow night, young man. But you'd best tell me what you want Sarah to bring or she'll have my head."

He grimaced. "Oh, that's probably a question for the lady of the house. All I can make is chili, steaks, and potatoes." 

The heard a noise on the stairs and looked up to see Isabella and an older woman coming through the door, both smiling wide.

"Hi babe," James smiled up at Isabella.

"Hey you," she smiled back. "He's not scaring you, is he?" She sent a fake glare in Doc's direction. 

"Not a bit. Now you leave him be," he teased, "he's a saint."

Doc's wife smiled at him. "Oh, don't say that, son. It'll go right to his head."

"We ready to go get the horse, honey?" James turned to Isabella, who nodded. 

"I think so."

Doc looks surprised, "new horse?"

His question made Isabella blush and look down. James squeezed her to him, "yes sir. I asked her not to ride Beauty, especially while she's pregnant. I just don't trust him, so we're getting another horse."

He sighed, "That's the best news I've heard in weeks."

"We're also getting Beauty gelded. I hope that can remedy his quirks some," James added. 

Doc nodded, thoughtful. "I told Patty to have that done, but he swore he was going to make that beast into a stud."

"He's a fine animal," James assured as he rubbed his hand up and down Isabella's arm. "He's just too high strung."

"Well, we'd better go," she interrupted, taking James's hand. He nodded at her, and then turned to Doc and Sarah. 

"We'll see you tomorrow night," he smiled. He opened the door, and they headed out, waving. 

He grabbed her by the waist and threw her up on Leo's back and then swung up behind her once again. They trotted down the street, waving as they passed the ladies again. He kissed her neck softly as they rode up to the livery stable. 

"You loved that, didn't you?" she laughed. 

He swung down and reached up for her. "No! Not at all!" He smiled innocently. 

He set her on the ground and reached for the saddlebags behind the saddle. He grabbed her hand as they walked into the barn. He spoke to the man a moment and then he led them out to some corrals in the back. As they approached one, they could see several horses trotting around. Isabella leaned against the fence, watching the horses while she let James do the talking. He whistled and a big grey mare lumbered up to them. She fought to keep her face neutral as the felt disappointment that this was all he thought she could handle. He stepped through the fence, more or less ignoring the man's sales pitch. He slid his hand over her face and lifted her upper lip, checking her teeth to see her age. Isabella leaned back against the fence and sighed. 

James looks over at the man. "Four, you said? I'd say she's closer to ten." He ran a hand over her body and down her legs, checking all 4 feet. "$250, that's your offer," he stated. "Take it or leave it."

She sighed with disappointment, looking around at the other horses in the corral. He seemed to notice her displeasure this time, and stopped his conversation with the salesman. He holds up a hand toward him, and asked him to wait. He saw her eyes following one of the horses, and called to her. "Belle, which one?"

She smiled gratefully and nodded to a palomino by the back fence. James smiled at her and walked out to the palomino. He led her over to where Isabella was standing. He repeated the same tests with her as Isabella brushed her hand along the horse's face. She laughed as a nose nuzzled her neck. She looked up at James as he finished his inspection. 

"You like her?" he asked, smiling. At her nod, he turned to the salesman. "Same offer for her. That's a more than fair offer," he stated as the salesman started to hem and haw. As he finally conceded, James pulled the saddlebags off the fence where he had left them. He opened it and pulled out a stack of bills, counting out $250. 

Her eyes widened as she looked at you. "Baby? Where..." She drifted off as he put the bags over his shoulder. 

"Come dear," he called. "We need to stop by the vet."

"But, the bank. They have all our money."

"That's my money," he stated quietly. 

She narrowed her eyes, "my money IS your money."

He led the horse behind him, "and she is my wedding present to you."

She smiled, reaching out and grabbed his hand with the one not holding the horse. She pulled him close to her, kissing him softly. "Thanks for not buying the ugly old mare," she winked. 

He kissed her back, stroking her hair. "Hey, she's not that old! I still may come back and buy her, she's a nice mare." 

She laughed, looking back at her new horse. "How old is she?"

He looked at her teeth again, "I'd say around 7. That's half Leo's age."

She nodded happily. "Well, are we ready to head to the vet?"

She swung up onto the horse, only to have him pull her back off and put her up on Leo. 

"Hey!" she cried. "She's mine!" 

He soothed her, "let me ride her home. Just to be 100% positive. Ok?"

She sighed deeply, "she won't hurt me, baby. We talked about it."

He glanced over at her pout and sighed. "Fine," he relented. "But at least let me put a saddle on her."

"Us girls have to stick together, you know." She slid down off of Leo. He quickly unsaddled Leo and threw the saddle on her. He helped her to climb up after the saddle was cinched tightly. She smiled down at him as she pat her neck. "I know, honey. I'm excited too." She smiled then and looked at her coat. "That's her name – Honey."

The horse looked back and whickered at her. She smiled, "see?"

He laughed, "Well, I guess she likes it." He swung up on Leo bareback and trotted down the street. "I'll run in and talk to the vet and we'll be on our way ok?"

She smiles at him, "we'll be here." 

Swinging down from Leo, he ran into the vet's office and was back out in no time. He looked up at her as he climbed back onto the horse. "He'll be out in the morning."

She nodded. "I think," she smiled over at him, "it's time to test her out."

He laughed as they trotted down the road and glanced to his left. "Hold that thought, baby. One more stop." He stopped in front of the Assay Office and ran inside. 

She watched him walk away, tilting her head in confusion. He was inside only a few moments, and when he returned, he had a large smile on his face. She raised an eyebrow at her as he swung back up on the horse. 

He smiled over at her, "ok, now you can test her out."

She laughed, "Finally!" She dug her heels in lightly, and they took off, James following along, watching the new horse like a hawk. As she sped up, he picked up speed himself.

"Easy, baby!" he called after her. 

As she rode, her hair came untied and flew loosely in the wind behind her. She looked back at him and saw him mouth SLOW DOWN. Feeling a wave of disappointment, she sighed, but pulled up on the reins and slowed her down. 

"Thank you, love," he sighed as he reached her side. 

"But she can go so much faster," she pouted. 

He smiled, "well, I should hope so. But we just got her, and you're pregnant."

"But honey, the baby likes it," she winked. "He says 'do it again, Mama!'"

He laughed, "Ok, ok. Would you like to know the real reason I slowed you down?"

She laughed, "Sure, baby."

"It was so we could get a head start," he laughed, heeling Leo into a run surging away from them. 

Isabella gasped, and then spurred Honey along, picking up speed quickly. They soon caught up to James and Leo. She saw him glance back in surprise, and she laughed as she turned onto the drive just ahead of him. She reached the porch just seconds before James and pulled Honey to a stop. When she turned back to look at him her face was flushed with happiness, and her smile was the biggest he'd ever seen. 

She reached down to pat the horse's neck, whispering, "That's my girl."

"Enjoy it, baby. That won't happen again," James laughed. 

"Oh, I think it could," she grinned. "This baby can really fly."

They led the horses into the barn, and Bella struggled to look at Beauty. She felt as if she had betrayed him as she led the new horse to her stall.

From behind her, she heard James' strong voice. "You have done nothing wrong. He understands."

She nodded, and they settled the horses in for the night. As she walked out of Honey's stall, she moved slowly but steadily to Beauty's. He watched as she reached out and rubbed along his nose, whispering, "I'm sorry, boy. I still love you." The big horse nuzzled her understandingly, and she laid a soft kiss under his eyes. She closed hers tightly, a tear finding its way down her cheek. She then took a deep breath and backed away from him, turning and walking towards the house. James hurried after her. 

"Honey, it's ok," he soothed as he caught up to her. "Do you want to go inside and lay down for a while?"

She nodded and took his hand. Together they walked into the house and climbed the stairs, greeted by their happy puppy. Once inside their room, they changed into sleeping clothes and climbed into bed. James pulled Bella into his arms, stroking her face as they lay there. 

"What's wrong, love?" he asked. 

She shook her head. "I think it just hit me. It's silly."

"Stop, nothing you could feel is silly," he smiled. "Now tell me."

"Putting a new horse in the barn, deciding to have Beauty gelded. It was like it made it all final," she sighed. "It was like I just realized that Daddy won't be back."

He nodded, "I understand, baby. I felt that way when Matt and Ben were gone."

She curled onto her side, looking over at him. She nodded, thoughtfully. Then she paused, "Baby? Can I ask you a question?"

"Absolutely, love," he squeezed her tight. 

"Where did the money come from?"

He smiled a little. "Yeah, I've been meaning to tell you that. You're not the only one with money, my dear. My father was in banking, so I have a little of my own." He kissed her forehead, and heard her laugh softly. 

He smiled, "what, Belle?"

"We could own this town," she smiled up at him. 

He snorted, "If people keep pissing me off and treating you the way they do, I'll make damn sure of it."

She laughed and smiled wider, closing her eyes and drifting off to sleep. James gently released her and slid out of the bed. He picked up the small puppy wagging his tail on the floor and set him next to Bella. He watched the puppy curl up with her with a smile, and then walked to the bedroom window and stared out over the land. It still seemed unbelievable to him that everything had come together like it had. He smiled back at the sleeping pair and then wandered downstairs into the den. He looked around at the pictures cataloguing a life from before he knew Bella Murphy. It made him smile wider as he thought about the life that they were now going to build together.



Love Rides a Chestnut Horse Ch. 10



Back upstairs, Bella began to dream. In the dream, she and James were sitting on the porch like they had been so often recently. The door opened and out walked her father. She glanced up at him, surprised, and then smiled up at him, introducing him to James. The two talked about the ranch and shared horse tales while she watched. She smiled in her sleep, a happy tear dripping down her cheek. 

At that moment, James returned to the bedroom, climbing into bed next to her though trying to cause as little movement as possible. He wrapped his arms tightly around Belle, noticing the tear on her cheek. He brushed it away gently and rested her head against the back of her shoulder. Feeling his presence she awoke slowly, looking around for him. She turned to look at him as he leaned forward and brushed a soft kiss over her lips. As he pulled back she smiled wide. 

"Daddy likes you," she whispered. 

"What, baby?" he asked sleepily.

She said again, "Daddy likes you. He told me he did."

James awoke fully, sitting up and looking down at her. "What do you mean, honey?"

She shook her head, "not really, baby, don't worry. I had a dream. I talked to Daddy and he met you. I mean, I know it wasn't real but he felt real."

He nodded, kissing her forehead again. "I'm truly happy he likes me."

She leaned back into him. "He even said he's happy you're living here. He hasn't ever been happy to have anyone here," she sighed. "He seemed like his old self again. From before Mama." 

"Good," he smiled. "I'm glad. He had to be a great man to have such a wonderful daughter."

She blushed lightly at the compliment. "He was brilliant. That is, until Mama..." her voice drifted off as she looked away. 

He placed his hand on her cheek and pulled her back around to face him. "You don't have to talk about it, honey." His hand slowly caressed her face.

She nodded slowly, "I know, but I want to..." She paused, looking into his eyes. "I just need time."

"Take as much time as you need," he smiled and squeezed her to him. "We have the rest of our lives together."

She nodded and turned closer to him, curling up with her head on his chest. He held her tightly, burying his nose in her neck, inhaling her scent. He sighed happily and rubbed her back. 

She grinned. "You sound so happy, baby."

"That's because I am," he nodded.

Her forehead wrinkled with concentration. "Were you happy before the war?"

He nodded, "I was happy enough. But I'm much happier now."

"What does that mean?" she asked. 

"Well," he sighed, "I was alone before the war. I had family, but no girl."

She smiled, "was your family close?"

"I was close with my mother," his hand rubbed idly up and down her back as he thought about her question. "My dad and I got along but were never what you'd call close." He paused, "I can't wait to marry you, Isabella."

She squeezed him gently. "Will your mother like me?"

"Yes," he nodded. "I'm sure of it." 

She laughed, "I'd be good enough for her boy?"

"Oh, absolutely," he kissed the top of her head softly. 

She grinned, nodding. "Are you hungry, babe?" she asked as she heard his stomach growl.

"I'll be ok," he smiled. "You rest."

"I feel much better now. Let me go make you some dinner," she moved to slide out of the bed, but he pulled her back to him. He stroked her face adoringly, and she slid her arms around his neck. 

"Hi there," he whispered. 

"Maybe..." she whispered back, "you're hungry for something else."

"Are you?" he smiled as he rubbed her back.

She tilted her head, a smile lighting her face. "I could be convinced," she nodded. 

He softly raked his teeth over her shoulder. "Oh?" His eyes stayed on her face as he moved. 

"Why Mr. Buchanan, are you trying to seduce me?" she laughed. 

He nipped gently at her shoulder. "Whatever would give you that indication, Mrs. Buchanan?" As he used her future name, he watched a small shiver of happiness course through her. She smiled, leaning down and kissing his lips hungrily, pressing her body against his. He sucked her eager tongue into his mouth, teasing it with his own. She ran her hands over his body, up and down his back.

"That feels so good, baby," he whispered. 

She smiled, "does it? What else would feel good?"

"Why don't you hunt around and find out?" he murmured in her ear, smiling wickedly. 

She laughed softly, pushing him onto his back. She slid slowly down his body as he laid back and stretched out, sighing happily. Suddenly, she gasped and stopped. She looked over at Doc, still on the bed and picked him up. She set the small dog down on the floor and looked back up at James, who laughed loudly. 

"You don't want our son to see?" he asked. 

She shook her head, "it's not appropriate for young eyes. That's much better," she smiled at him as she moved back over. 

He ran his hands through her hair as she reached inside his pants and pulled out his hardening member. He moaned softly as he felt her touch and she began to stroke up and down gently. Her eyes gazed up at him as she licked lightly from bottom to top, running her tongue over the ridges in the head. He stretched in the bed beneath her, loving how she felt on him. She took his head into her mouth, suckling gently. Her tongue ran along the bottom and she heard his quiet moan. She began to move her head carefully up and down. 

He sighed, "oh baby, I'm not going to take long if you keep doing that."

She grinned up at him, "should I stop then?" She took him back into her mouth, sucking harder than before.

"I'm almost there, baby." He groaned, stiffening suddenly. He cried her name as he climaxed into mouth. He continued to moan her name as his hands tangled in her hair. She took in every last drop, licking him and then her lips clean as he collapsed back on the bed, breathing hard. She crawled up the bed to lay next to him, running her hand over his chest. He pulled her to him and kissed her passionately, holding her to his heaving chest. 

She glanced up, "you ok, baby?"

"I am great, love."

"Good," she smiled. "Now, how about some dinner?" She slid out of the bed and held out her hand to him. 

He stood shakily and took it. "Sounds good, honey. But you didn't let me return the favor."

Bella smiled, "I'm fine, baby." She stooped to pick up Doc and placed her other hand on her stomach, "we don't want to scare your little boy." 

"Our," he smiled, putting his hand over hers.

"Yes, our," she returned his smile. Then she turned and led him from the room and down the stairs. She set Doc down as they reached the bottom of the steps. 

James followed her into and watched as she opened the icebox. She turned to him, "did you have a preference for what we should serve Doc and Sarah tomorrow?"

He shrugged, "you tell me. You're the cook, love."

"Well, you bought the meat. I'm not sure what you got," she stated as she wrinkled her forehead in concentration. 

He nodded, "how about rib eye steaks? Baked potatoes, and say a salad?"

"That sounds perfect," she smiled. She reached in and pulled out some pork chops and seasoned them. She slipped them into the wood stove, and he smiled as he sat and watched her. She pulled out the last of the fresh bakery bread and slicing it and then cutting up some fresh fruit and placed it on the table. 

"We'll need to buy or bake some bread tomorrow," he noted. 

"I can bake it, honey," she replied, not looking up from the fruit. 

He walked up behind her, grabbing her hips and grinding against him. She gasped and leaned her head back. He ran a hand down over her rump, squeezing firmly. She bit her lip as he slid his hand down between her legs from behind. Her hands gripped the edge of the sink, and she moaned softly. He lifted her skirt, pressing his hand further between her legs, his fingertips finding her now wet lips. At her moan, he bent her farther over the counter and pushed her legs apart. She felt the head of his already hard member at her wet entrance, pushing and prodding. He pushed harder forward, thrusting it in. Her head snapped back and she cried out, pushing her body back into him. He started to rhythmically thrust in and out over and over. Her fingertips clenched the counter tightly as he grabbed her hips and pushed deeper inside than ever before. He pulled her back to him and kissed her hungrily, sucking at her tongue as he moved inside her again and again. Her moan was desperate as he moved faster and faster. Her eyes widened suddenly, her body tightening as she reached her climax, crying out loudly. Her legs buckled under her and he wrapped his arms around her, holding her to him. He shuddered as he climaxed as well, shooting his seed deep inside of her. Her body shook as she leaned back into him, both of them breathing hard. He slipped out of her, then picked her up and carried her to the couch. 

He smiled down at her, kissing her forehead. "You look exhausted, honey."

"Gee, I wonder why," she laughed. "Baby, our dinner will burn."

"I'll take care of it," he grinned. "Lay down."

She curled up on the couch, sighing in contentment as he covered her with a throw. Her eyes closed and she drifted off as he walked back into the kitchen to check on their meal. Seeing nothing amiss, he walked back to the living room, taking a seat on the couch next to her. He gently covered a foot that had kicked the cover off of it, laughing quietly when she mumbled in sleep and kicked it off again. He again covered it, waiting to see her reaction. She mumbled again, louder this time. It sounded as if she were arguing with someone. Her foot kicked out, harder this time. As he saw her demeanor chance, he took her foot and gently shook it to wake her. 

"Honey, wake up," his voice was soft, but firm.

She gasped, sitting straight up on the couch. He reached out to hold her. "Shh," he whispered. "It's me. It's ok. I'm here." He gently rocked her back and forth as she calmed. "What were you dreaming about, baby?"

She shook her head into his shoulder, "nothing."

He lifted her chin until she was looking at him. "No, not this time, baby. Please, tell me." He looked down into her eyes, and gently brushed the hair from her face. 

"It's not important," she sighed. "It was just a stupid dream." 

"Isabella Renee..." he began.

She glared up at him at the use of her dreaded middle name. "It was stupid. Just an old childhood memory," she shook her head. 

He straightened, "Mrs. Buchanan, tell me now or I sleep in my old room tonight."

Her eyed widened, her resolve faltering. "I just don't want to upset you. You must think I'm some ridiculously tragic figure by now anyway. It was just stupid kids, playing a joke."

"Go on," he stated gently. 

"I don't know why I dreamt about it now, I haven't thought about it in years." She sighed, "When mama died, I was only 7. But daddy couldn't take care of the daily chores and errands anymore. So I used to ride into town on my horse to do them for him. One day, I met up with a group of kids my age when I got there. Daddy's reputation, courtesy of Mrs. Sawyer, had already spread." 

He sat silently stroking her side, almost dreading what he was about to hear.

"They shut me into this old outhouse behind the store. No one had used it for years. But they blocked the door so I couldn't get out," she shook her head, shrugging. 

"Oh honey," he wrapped his arms around her, pulling her tight against him. "I'm sorry."

"It was just a stupid prank," she sighed. "They said if no one would lock daddy up for murder, they could at least lock me up." 

"That's horrible, baby." His voice became more low and dangerous. He leaned down and placed a gentle kiss on her forehead, a complete contradiction to his tone. It showed that he was angry, yes. But not with her. 

"It was a long time ago," she stated calmly. "Dinner's probably burning by now," she muttered as she pushed herself off the couch. 

His hand gently pushed her back down, "I checked on it a minute ago, but I'll run out and check on it again."

She nodded, "OK."

He walked into the kitchen and she could hear him getting plates out. She stood and stretched, following him in. She leaned in the doorway and watched him set the table. He pulled out some glasses, filling them with tea and ice. She smiled as she watched, and he looked up and met her eyes. 

"Oh, hi baby," he smiled back at her. 

She crossed to the oven, opening it to look in on the meat. She pulled it out of the oven, assuring herself it was done, but not burnt. 

He pouted slightly, "I had it under control."

She smiled and placed a soft kiss on his cheek. "I know, but I can't let you do everything around here."

"Yes, you can." He looked at her seriously. 

She shook her head, "I'll be no pampered housewife, James Buchanan."

He smiled, "Mrs. Buchanan – you already are and will remain such."

She glared at him as she shook her head, but was silenced by his tone when he spoke next. 

"Isabella," his voice was strong and almost stern. "All you need to do is take care of yourself and that baby. I won't see either of you hurt."

Her eyes widened at what she took to be an accusation. "I'm not trying to hurt either of us." 

He softened, "I know, honey. But for a year or so you are doing as few chores outside as possible. Doc agreed with me this morning, remember?"

She sighed as she nodded. "I know that, James. But I've been taking care of this place since I was 7. It's hard to break the habit."

He took her hands and squeezed, "well, you're going to have to." 

"Am I?" she asked.

"Yes!" His tone had changed again to one of annoyance and exasperation. "Because you say so?" she smiled widely, showing him she was kidding. 

"Because it's what's best for you and the baby!"

She took a step back as he yelled, dropping her own voice to a whisper. "Ok, baby. I'm sorry."

He sighed, "There's nothing to be sorry for. You just don't have to try so hard anymore. I'm here now."

She nodded, "OK." She took a seat at the table with no further argument. 

"Thank you, baby." His voice was now a whisper as he kissed the top of her head. She smiled softly, and reached down to pick up Doc, who had wandered inside. 

"Hey, buddy." James smiled as he brought the food to the table and put some on the plates. He gave her a large pork chop and a big helping of beans, with a large slice of buttered bread. 

She glanced up at him. "You know I can't eat all that, right?"

He placed the same amount of food on his own plate, and smiled down at her. "Yes, you can." He sat down next to her and began to eat. "You're eating for two now, you know." 

He ate slowly, looking over at her. He slid his hand over and squeezed hers, relieved to feel her gentle grip back. He smiled, holding a piece of pork out to Doc, who hungrily ate it up. 

"I'm running to town first thing in the morning, but I'll be back before the vet gets here," he stated softly. 

"What do you need to go into town for?" she asked, surprised. 

He shook his head, "don't you worry about it, baby."

She raised an eyebrow, but then nodded. "Whatever you say, honey. But I'll have it known that sometimes you like your secrets, Mr. Buchanan."

He laughed, "sometimes I do."

"So, I won't be getting this one, then?" she smiled. 

"Nope," he answered. "Not until tomorrow night." 

She nodded slowly. "OK, then."

He finished his meal and pushed his plate back, glancing over and noting the huge amount of food still on her plate. "Baby," he stated with frustration. "Eat. Please."

She smiled, "honey, no one could eat all this."

"A pregnant woman can," he laughed. 

She pouted over at him, "Well, maybe our son hasn't found his appetite yet." She continued to eat, until she felt stuffed. She pushed the plate back and glanced over at James, leaning back. 

He smiled, "good job, baby." He sliced a piece of meat of the chop and set it on a plate on the floor. Doc hurried over and began eating it. He kissed the top of her head as he stood and took the dishes to the sink. He washed them off and then placed them in the rack to dry.

A quick glance toward the window showed Bella just how dark it had gotten outside. He followed her gaze and smiled over at her, "ready for bed, love?"

She nodded, smiling up at him. He pushed away from the counter and walked to her, offering his hand. He pulled her up and hugged her tightly. After releasing her, he began to walk up the stairs, the puppy following them. The three of them settled into the bed, falling asleep in each other's arms.



Love Rides a Chestnut Horse Ch. 11



The next morning, James awoke and slipped out of bed carefully, so as not to wake Bella. He dressed and headed down the stairs, hoping to get to town and back before Bella even noticed his absence. The sun shone brightly through the bedroom window, and Bella blinked her eyes as it woke her from sleep. She paused for a moment, doing a mental check to see if the baby was going to allow her a morning with no sickness and smiled as she felt no nausea. She stretched out, reaching her hand over to where James should be, looking over when she found the bed empty. She sat up, looking around.

"Baby?" she called. The word had barely left her lips when she heard his footsteps pounding up the stairs. 

He poked his head in the doorway. "Yeah, love?"

She pouted sleepily as she rubbed her eyes. "I couldn't find you."

"I'm just getting ready to run to town," he smiled. "I'll be back in a bit, ok?"

She nodded, "right. Sorry, I forgot."

As they spoke, Cappy ran in and hopped up and down at the side of the bed. James stooped to pick him up and placed him on the bed. "There's no need to apologize, baby." He leaned down and kissed her gently before turning to go. 

She lay back, pulling the playful puppy with her. "You'll be back before the vet gets here?" she asked. 

"Definitely," he smiled. 

She nodded, "ok." She curled up, cuddling the small dog against her. She closed her eyes was almost instantly asleep. 

James smiled at the pair, and then headed down the steps and out the door. He quickly moved out to the barn and saddled Leo, loping down the drive just a few minutes later. A short time after he left, Bella pulled herself and the dog from bed, washing up and dressing. Just as she headed down to the kitchen, she heard hoof beats announcing his return. Smiling, she opened the back door to allow Cappy to go out to greet him. The dog met James as he slid off of Leo, tossing his reins over the rail. 

He looked down, "hey buddy. Where's Mama?"

"Right here," she spoke from the doorway, wiping flour from her hands. 

"Hi, love," he smiled, picking up the dog and heading up the stairs. 

"Hi there," she grinned as he kissed her cheek. "How was your errand?"

He nodded, putting Cappy down and patting his bottom as he ran into the den to play. Bella smiled at him and shook her head, walking back across the kitchen to finish kneading the bread dough. He followed along behind her, pulling her into his arms as he gently turned her to face him. He kissed her lips gently, smiling as he felt her return his kiss. 

"Wash your hands, baby," he murmured in her ear. 

She pulled back, looking intrigued. "Why?"

He laughed, "Just do it, please."

Nodding, she moved to the sink and cleaned the flour and dough from her hands. When she was finished, she turned to face him once more. As she turned, she noticed that he had dropped to one knee behind her, and she gasped. Her hands flew in front of her mouth as her eyes filled with tears. 

James reached into his pocket and pulled out a small silk bag. "I know I've already asked, but I want to do it right," he smiled wide. He opened the bag and reached inside it, pulling out a golden ring with a large diamond sitting atop it. 

"Oh, baby," she breathed, looking down at it. 

Still staring up into her eyes intently, he continued. "I love you so much. And I want you to be my wife and my friend, for the rest of our lives. Isabella Renee Murphy, will you marry me?"

She took a deep breath, nodding. She seemed unable to find her voice as tears dripped down her cheeks. She watched as he slid the ring carefully onto her shaking hand. He smiled as he saw its perfect fit and stood, pulling her close. She wrapped her arms around his neck as he wiped her tears away.

She smiled up at him as he held her. "I love you so much," her voice was barely more than a whisper.

So he whispered back, "I love you too, Bella."

She pressed her lips against his, feeling the change as they both melted into the kiss. As she pulled away, she smiled. "Now, can I ask you something you're not going to like?"

His eyes narrowed, furrowing his forehead. "What?"

"I want to be with you this morning. Well, with Beauty."

He shook his head, pulling away. "No. No way."

She sighed heavily as she turned away from him and placed the bread in a loaf pan to rise. "Why not?" she spoke calmly. 

"It's bloody," he stated. "It's not pretty."

"I've seen blood before, James," she interrupted. 

He continued as if she hadn't spoken, "there will be chloroform in the air and you're pregnant."

She rolled her eyes, "there won't be that much. And if I feel dizzy at all, I'll leave. I promise."

He sighed, "or if I tell you to leave, you'll leave."

She nodded, looking up at him. "Please, James. I need to do this for Daddy."

He stared down into her face. "Promise you'll leave if I tell you to."

She nodded solemnly. "I promise."

"Ok," he sighed. 

She leaned up and kissed his cheek. "Thank you."

"You're welcome." He looked over at the counter. "What are you cooking?"

She followed his gaze. "Well, I made the bread dough, and I'll bake it later. I was going to make a cake for dessert."

He seated himself at the kitchen table, watching as she pulled out the ingredients for the cake. She worked quickly, mixing them together. He smiled as he watched her work, her movements seemed perfectly suited to her work in the kitchen. As she poured the batter into the pan, she felt his gaze and smiled. 

"Yes?" she asked.

He shook his head, "nothing, baby. The vet should be here in an hour or so." 

She nodded as she slid the pan into the wood oven. "Good, then this will be done baking and can cool." After closing the door, she walked over to where James sat, smiling down at him. He reached up and pulled her into his lap.

"After the vet leaves would you like to take a ride?" she asked softly. "There's someplace I'd very much like to show you."

He smiled, "sure baby. That sounds good."

She leaned down and kissed him softly, enjoying his quiet sound of enjoyment. He ran his hand up along her leg, winking at her as he did. 

She smiled, standing. "We have some time." She reached out and took his hand, pulling him up to stand. They walked into the living room where she lay down on the couch and he moved on top of her. He kissed her lips gently, running his hands through her hair. She sighed happily and returned his kisses calmly, feeling him relaxing against her. 

"The vet will be here soon," she whispered. He nodded, and they lay together. His fingers tickled her thigh and she laughed. 

"Love you," he murmured, stroking her face gently. 

She rested her forehead against his and smiled wide. "I love you, too."

They lay in each other's arms for a while, listening to the sounds of their home. They could hear Cappy running about, barking at birds and bugs he could see through the window. They could smell the cake baking in the kitchen. After a while, a wagon sounded as it rolled up the drive. Bella smiled, "right on time."

They pulled themselves off the couch and walked out through the kitchen. Bella stopped to pull the cake from the oven, setting it in the window to cool. James inhaled deeply and smiled, allowing the thick chocolate aroma to meets his nose. 

He looked back at her as he grabbed his hat from the post. "It smells delicious, baby."

"Thanks," she smiled.

He opened the door, "you ready?"

She nodded, wiping her hands on a towel. Following him out of the house, she waved at the vet as they approached. He smiled back, glancing at James in question. The pair spoke softly for a moment and then began their walk out to the barn. Bella followed, knowing that James was hoping if she felt ignored she would simply go back inside. As she entered just behind them, she saw James lead the beautiful black stallion from his stall into a larger one, bedded deep with hay. She walked up to the horse's head, stroking his cheek and speaking softly to him as he fussed. She watched the vet ready his tools outside the stall, then stand with a bottle and a large cloth. 

James' voice was soft in her ear as he approached. "OK babe, out in the barn alley please." 

She nodded slowly and stepped out; keeping her eyes on Beauty's the whole time. She looked over at the vet, seeing him dousing the rag with chloroform, and taking a deep breath before the sweet odor can invade her nostrils. She watched James do the same and nodded at him, showing him she was aware. 

James looked back to the horse from his fiancé and held his nose as the vet placed the rag under it. He bucked his head, trying to pull away, but soon enough his eyes closed, and the men eased him carefully to the ground. 

Bella stepped forward as they got him situated on the floor, only to be halted by James' curt, "back, baby!"

Her brow furrowed in confusion. "But you said..."

His movements were quick as he grabbed two ropes. "I didn't say you had to leave. But you may not stay in the stall."

She nodded reluctantly with a sigh, looking at the prone horse. She wanted to be here with him since Daddy couldn't. Since Daddy never would be again. She bit her lip as the realization fully hit her. She stared at the horse's limp form and in her mind saw her father's instead. She stifled a cry, not wanting James to know anything was amiss. 

James was tying back Beauty's hind legs and he then grabbed some iodine to rub down the site quickly. The vet does his job carefully, slow and methodical. As he pulled out the scalpel and made the first cut, Bella saw the blood oozing down his leg. She gasped, shaking her head. The images in her mind were a jumbled mess, and she needed air. She turned on her heel and ran from the barn heading up to the house before James could do anything. 

He sighed and looked up at the vet. "I told her I didn't want her here," he muttered. 

The older man smiled as he finished. "Well, things rarely go as we think they will." They untied the horse's legs and heading out of the barn after cleaning up. He shook the vet's hand and looked up toward the house. He checked on the horse one more time, seeing him slowly waking up, and headed inside to see to Bella. As he walked into the house, he paused, thinking about where she would have gone. He slowly walked through the living room and stood in the doorway to Mr. Murphy's den, seeing her curled up in her father's favorite chair. 

"You ok?" he murmured as he moved into the room, squatting and laying his hand on her arm. 

She nodded, her eyes staring up at the portrait of her father hanging over the fireplace. "Guess you were right," she sighed. 

He carefully took hold of her chin, bringing her eyes to meet his. He ran a hand gently over her cheek, wiping away the tears collecting there. 

Her voice was barely a whisper when she spoke again. "I failed him."

"You DID NOT," he stated firmly. "Don't let me hear you talk like that again."

She shook her head, "but I did, James. It would have made him so happy if he had been right about that horse." 

"Bella," his voice was soft but firm, "if anyone failed, he did. Not you," he squeezed her hand as if punctuating his statement. "Besides, who can know how a horse's temperament is going to turn out?"

Bella nodded, accepting his statement. She sighed softly as she looked down at him. "How about that ride?"

He knew she was attempting to divert him from the subject, but he nodded anyway. "Sounds great, love. You go ahead and change and I'll saddle the horses."

She nodded, heading upstairs to change into riding clothes while James walked out back to saddle the horses. A few moments later, she walked out, glancing toward the barn as she swung onto Honey. 

"How is he?" she asked.

"He's fine," he smiled. "He's groggy as hell, but otherwise fine." He glanced over and saw her biting her lip, still staring toward the barn. "Belle... go see him."

"Are you sure?" she asked. 

"Yes, Bella. But stay out of the stall, please," he warned. He smiled as she ran toward the barn and followed her at a slower pace. He watched as she stepped tentatively toward the stall door and kept a close eye on the horse. 

"Hey there, boy," she smiled as she rubbed a hand up and down his muzzle. "I'm sorry I

wasn't here," she sighed. "But I'm really glad you're ok." The horse looked up and whinnied a little drunkenly. She smiled back and pat his neck before turning back to James. "We can go now."

He took her hand and they walked back out to the waiting horses, where he picked her up and threw her easily onto Honey's back. He swung onto Leo and looked over at his lovely bride. "Lead the way," he smiled. 

Bella nodded and nudged Honey into a trot, leading them up a path in the hill behind the barns. He followed closely behind her, watching her easy way with the horse. It made him smile to have found someone who loved the majestic animals as much as he did. As the climb, the path gets steeper and she calls out for him to watch his head. 

"Where are we going, babe?" he called.

She looked back over her shoulder, smiling. "You'll see." As she spoke the trail narrowed and as they moved through, it opened into a wide clearing at the top of the hill. 

He rode up next to her in the clearing, taking in her wide smile as she looked around the space. "This is it," she smiled, sliding off the horse to her feet. He did the same, watching her. 

"I know it's not much," she shrugged. "But I've always liked it here."

He reached for her hand, smiling at her. "It's gorgeous, baby."

She smiled widely, leading him over to a corner of the clearing where there were three large rocks grouped around one even larger one. She sat down on the smallest of the rocks and looked up at him. "This was my chair. And that was Daddy's... and Mama's." She pointed to them each in turn as she spoke. "We used to come up here every Sunday after church." 

He placed his hand on her shoulder and squeezed as her attention turned the line of trees behind it. On the far left a tree stands with "Patrick Seamus Murphy" carved proudly on it. The one next to it reads "Eileen Elizabeth Davis Murphy" and next to that, "Isabella Renee Murphy."

"Now," she smiled, reaching into her pocket and pulled out her daddy's old carving knife. "It's time to add to our family." She smiled, taking his hand. She led him over to the tree with her name on it, carefully carving the name Buchanan beneath it. She then moved to the blank tree next to her own. 

"You're great at that, baby," he smiled.

"Thanks," she grinned. As he watched, she just as carefully carved "James Daniel Buchanan." She then stepped back and glanced at him for his approval. 

"It looks great, Belle." 

She smiled wide. "Thanks," she turned to him and kissed his lips softly. "I think the real reason I wanted to bring you up here is that this is where I've always felt closest to them. I mean, this the last place we were together as a family."

James looked at her and nodded, squeezing her hand for support. Her gaze shifted to the ground and she continued. 

"We were leaving here when my mother was killed." She took a deep breath to prepare herself to tell the story. "Daddy was first in the line on his horse. But he was too far ahead to help when her horse spooked." 

James wrapped his arms around her as she continued her eyes far away. He listened intently, anxious to hear the story that made the townspeople assume her father was responsible. 

"He took off through the trees. I followed as fast as I could, yelling for Daddy. But by the time I caught up she had been thrown. Her head hit a rock... there was blood... everywhere. And by the time daddy came back, she was gone."

He held her tight, rubbing her back. "I'm so sorry, honey."

She nodded. "It was a long time ago."

"But," he sighed, "I'm sure when I got hurt it brought a lot of those memories back."

A deep blush colored her cheeks as she nodded. "I panicked. It was just so similar." She sighed deeply, "that's why I ran outside to the barn, and it's why I wasn't careful enough with Beauty. I was distracted."

"Hey," he brought his hand to her chin and lifted until her eyes met his. "What happened with Beauty was NOT your fault, I want you to stop saying it was."

She shook her head as she gazed back up at him. "I know it wasn't my fault. But it could have been avoided."

With a smile, James shrugged. "Bella, that could be said of any accident."

She nodded. "Anyway, Daddy pulled Mama onto his horse and rode all the way to town. And by the time he got there, there was blood all over him, which led all the uninformed people in town to assume that he had killed her. No one ever even tried to hear his side of the story." Her gaze shifted toward the tree that bore her father's name. "And then he just shut down," she sighed, shaking her head. 

James rubbed her back and leaned down to kiss her forehead. "I'm so sorry, baby."

She nodded, "thanks. After that, my trips up here were an escape. This was the only place the rest of the town couldn't find us." She straightened her shoulders and took a deep breath. "Anyway, I just wanted to tell you the whole story. I thought you should be here to hear it all." 

She pulled away, looking up at him almost sheepishly. "We can go back now."

He reached out and pulled her back into his arms, letting her rest her head on his shoulder. "We can," he nodded, "but only if you want to."

She shrugged and he stood, pulling her into his arms. He gently stroked her face with his hand, wiping away the single tear that dripped down her cheek. 

"There was so much pain in my life until you came along. And now I'm happier than I've ever been." Her voice was soft but strong as she looked up into his eyes. 

"I'm glad, baby." He leaned down and kissed her temple. 

She smiled. "We should get back. I have to get dinner together, after all," she slid her hands down his arms and squeezed both his hands as she spoke. 

He nodded and lifted her onto Honey's back. He then swung up onto Leo's and led them down the trail, looking back to make sure Bella was following him. It seemed almost as if Honey had picked up on Belle's change in mood, as she whinnied and looked back at her rider. Bella smiled, rubbing the horse's soft neck. 

James turned on Leo's saddle. "Honey loves you, baby. And so do I."

She smiled. "I love you, too. Both of you, AND Leo." Her grin widened and made James' heart swell. As they again reached the flat land, James turned once again and smiled. 

"Race ya!" he called as he pushed Leo to a run, flying across the field toward the farm. Bella dug her heels in and Honey took off behind them, seeming to lose ground as fast as she gained it. Belle leaned down over her neck, allowing the golden horse to pick up speed. James looked back, shocked to see that they had come so much closer. He leaned down over Leo, lying against his neck. He looked over and caught Bella's eye as the two horses came even and then glanced back to see the house just ahead.  

"COME ON, LEO!" James bellowed and the big chestnut lunged, digging in for every inch. He heard Bella's laugh sing out over the sound of pounding hooves. The house came closer and closer, and even as she pushed, Bella could feel the young mare getting tired. James reached down along the right side of Leo's neck and tugged the rein, acting at the same time as if he were urging him on. The horse fought him only for a second and then began to ease up, letting the ladies soar past them, coming to a stop behind the house. Leo stopped himself just behind them and James looked up to meet Belle's eye. 

"You win today," he smiled as he slid off the horse and stretched. "But you won't next time," he warned.

She looked down at him with a glare. "You let me win, James Buchanan."




Love Rides a Chestnut Horse Ch. 11



"I did no such thing," he looked aghast as he loosened Leo's saddle so the big horse could breathe. 

"You did, too!" Her laughter echoed around the farm as she slid down as well. 

He scoffed, "oh please."

She kissed his cheek lightly and smiled up at him. "It was sweet. Thank you, but don't do it again." She turned and walked into the house, and he swatted her backside as she walked away. She watched from the kitchen window as he took the horses to the barn. She carefully frosted the cake and looked up as he came in. She held the knife out to him so he could clean it. He smiled as he took it, happily licking off the remaining chocolate frosting. 

"Yummy," he smiled, handing it back to her. 

"Oh, I almost forgot," she looked over at him as she took it to wash. "Can you go down into the basement? Doc loves bourbon and there should be a stash down there -- unless of course Daddy drank it all. I haven't been down there in a while."

"Sure, baby," he stood from his chair. He opened the door, walking into the dim basement. As his eyes adjusted, he looked around and saw lines of bottles on shelves on the far wall. As he took a step forward, his boot hit something and he stooped down to see what it was. He picked up a small wooden horse, the carving on it intricate and detailed. He thought back to the carving knife Bella had used earlier, which had belonged to her father. As he looked up from the one in his hand, he saw many other toys scattered around the floor. There were trains, dogs, and people. He picked them up one at a time and laid them carefully on a table along the wall. He shook his head at the work that the old man must have done down here over the years. 

Something to his left caught his eye and he glanced over under the stairs. A small, but sturdy cradle and crib were stored there and he shook his head in surprise. 

"You ok down there?" Bella called from the top of the stairs. 

"Yea, I'll be up in just a moment," he looked back over at the bottles of bourbon on the other side. He smiled wide as he picked one out and trotted upstairs with it, blowing off the dust as he went. 

"Find any?" she looked up as he entered the kitchen, closing the basement door behind him. "Or did he drink it all?"

"There's actually a ton down there," he replied. "This one was bottled about twenty miles from where I grew up." James pointed at the label as he walked over to show her that it read 'Heaven Hill Distillery, Frankfort KY.'

She smiled, "that's good. Weird, though. I mean, he was always down there. I just figured he was drinking."

"I also found a cradle and a bunch of toys," he said in passing. 

She looked over at him, confused. "You found what?"

"A cradle," he looked back at her. "And some carved wooden toys. Weren't they yours?" "The cradle might have been," she shrugged. "But I never had any wooden toys." 

"Oh," he shrugged. "Well, maybe he was making them for someone else?"

She shook her head. "Who knows what he was thinking?"

James pulled the top from the bottle and poured a little into a glass. He sipped at it carefully, and smiled.

Bella grinned at him. "Good?" she asked.

"Incredibly," he smiled. He held out the glass. "Want a sip?"

She laughed and wrinkled her nose. "No, thank you. I tasted that once when I was little -- it was gross."

"It's probably not good for the baby, anyway," he shrugged, sipping it again with a sigh. 

She glanced up at the clock and then down at her outfit. "My goodness, they'll be here soon and I look a fright. I have to go and change." 

"Change, huh?" He gave her a wry look. "Now that might be something I'd like to see." 

She laughed, "Now that's not necessary."

"Oh," he wrapped his arms around her. "But it is." He scooped her up into his arms and carried her up to their bedroom. He set her down on her feet and watched as she stripped off her riding clothes. "My bride is the most beautiful woman in the world."

She smiled over at him as slipped on a clean corset, turning so that James could lace it for her. He ran a hand up her bare leg and then grabbed the strings, placing a hand at her back. He pulled them tight, wincing at her gasp. 

"Well done," she smiled. 

"Too much?" he asked.

"No," she shook her head. "It's fine. Just don't squish our son," she smiled. 

With that, he loosened the strings up a little and tied the strings. She pulled a simple dress over her head and turned around for his approval. James stripped down himself and changed into a clean pair of pants and a pressed cotton shirt. 

Belle smiled, "you look so handsome." 

"And you look beautiful," he kissed her cheek lightly and smiled at her blush.



Love Rides a Chestnut Horse Ch. 12



Just then, they heard hooves pulling a carriage up the drive and Cappy barking out the door at them. 

"They're here, baby," she hurrying out of the room and down the stairs and into the kitchen to continue preparing the food. James trotted down after her and headed out onto the porch, waving as they pulled up in the carriage. Doc waved back at him from the wagon as he pulled it to a stop in front of the house. 

"Hey Doc," he smiled as he walked down and patted the big grey horse on the hip. 

"Why, hello there, young man! Where's your better half?" He jumped down from the wagon like a man half his age and reached up to help Sarah down as well. 

"She's inside, cooking," he smiled. "Hello, ma'am. I don't believe we've met yet." He walked over to Sarah and held out his hand to her. "James Buchanan."

"Well, not technically," she took his hand and shook it with a soft but still strong grasp. She smiled up into his face, "Sarah Thompson. The wife of this crazy old man here," she nods to Doc, who looks wounded. "I best get in there and see if Bella needs any help."

James smiled, "I'm sure she'll be grateful. Doc, what do you say we get this horse some water and fresh hay?" 

Together they unhitched the wagon and led the horse out to the barn. He undid the horse's harness, hanging it in the tack room before leading him to a stall. They gave the old mare some hay and water and a handful of grain. As James took care of the Doc's horse, the man walked over to the stall where Beauty stood. James saw where he was going and walked over as well, checking on the black horse. 

"How's he doing?" Doc asked. 

"He's good," James nodded. "I can tell a difference in him in just this short amount of time."

The older man sighed, "That's a good thing." As he spoke, he nodded toward the house. "She's a bit attached to this one."

"Yes sir, she is." James shook his head at the Doc. "It took me forever to talk her into even gelding him. I hope he changes for the better, but I just don't know."

Doc nodded, "her daddy had big hopes for this horse. Bella had big hopes too – hopes that this horse would help bring her daddy around. I guess he didn't really live up to either of them." 

James sighed, "I didn't see any way of getting around her riding the horse. So I thought this would be the best way to handle it. I know it hurt to do it, though, and of course that made it hurt me all the more."

"For the better, though," Doc nodded. "I always found it strange, but I never once saw this horse flinch when she was on him. Anyone else, he'd throw off in a heartbeat."

"Yea, so she's told me..." James' voice drifted off as he looked at the horse. 

Doc grinned, "She wouldn't lie to you, son."

"I know she wouldn't," he nodded. "Oh, she had me go into the cellar and find some bourbon, she said you liked it. I actually found some that was distilled about 20 miles from where I grew up."

"Is that right, son?" Doc asked and smiled as James nodded. "Well, then we should get to that soon. Just let's have a look at your new baby first." He walked back towards Honey's stall, which James opened. 

"I had my eye on a big grey mare, but she had her heart set on this one," James shook his head. "Can't say as I blame her, though. This is definitely a horse for that girl." He watched as Doc patted her neck and smiled. "They get along great already." 

"That's terrific, son." He looked over at James, "well, we best go see to that bourbon."

He smiles back, "yes, sir." They turned and headed toward the house. As they got closer they could hear laughter floating out through the kitchen windows. They walked up the back steps and through the door. 

Doc glances around, "it's been ages since I've been in here. But I see she hasn't changed it much." The men made their way to the den, and Doc's face lit up as they entered. "Patty and I used to sit in this room for hours. Eileen and Sarah would have to come pull us away at the end of the night."

James walked to the liquor cabinet and pulled out the Kentucky born bottle. He poured two glasses and handed one to Doc, who sniffed the dark liquid and smiled. James grinned at his pleased expression and lifted his glass. 

"To new beginnings," he said his smile widening.

Doc lifted his own, clinking it against the younger man's. They each took a sip and settled into the worn leather armchairs. 

Doc glanced up, taking a deep breath. "I know you're good for her, son."

"Thank you, sir," James smiled. 

"Sarah and I have always looked at that girl like a daughter. So it matters a lot to us that she's taken care of. And while her Daddy was crazy later on in life, he was an angry drunk Irishman for most of it. I would imagine his ghost probably is, too."

James laughed. "Yes sir, I would not doubt that he is. Can I get you a refill?"

"You can, son. That is delicious stuff." He smiles as James fills his glass again. "From back home, you said?"

"Yes, sir it is. From Kentucky," James swelled with pride. "Her father had it in the cellar."

As the two sat there chatting comfortably, the time passed. Soon enough there was a knock on the door and they looked up to see Bella standing in the doorway.

"Hi honey," James smiled. 

"Hi," she smiled in return. "Dinner's ready, gentlemen." 

Both men rose as they finished off their glasses. James took the empty from the Doc and motioned toward the door. "After you, sir."

Bella turned to walk away and tossed casually over her shoulder, "and Sarah told me to tell you not to come in smelling like bourbon!"

James breathed into his hand and then looked at Doc, "whoops."

Doc shook his head. "Patty always had a remedy for this." He walked over to the window behind the desk, opening it. He laughed as he reached out side to the closest plant, and broke off a few leaves. "Aha," he smiled. He handed one to James, who saw that they were mint leaves. "Chew on that," he smiled. 

"Genius," James smiled, chewing on the leaf. 

"Her daddy was a clever man," Doc smiled. 

"So I'm learning."

"Sarah and Eileen always had their rules," he smiled as they headed out of the den. "And Patty always found ways around them." Doc clapped James on the back as they headed into the kitchen. As they enter, they see the table is set and laden down with food. Sarah looks up at the both of them. 

"Well," she sighed. "How kind of you to join us, gentlemen." Bella's laugh followed her statement and made James smile, as it always did. 

"Oh, leave them alone, Sarah." She smiled over at James as he took his seat at the head of the table. 

"Everything smells wonderful, Belle," he grinned back at her. 

"Thank you," she nodded as she acknowledged his kind words. "Dig in, everyone."

James picked up his knife and fork, cutting into the steak in front of him and looked up as he heard Bella's soft laughter. 

"What did I do?" he asked innocently.

Bella shook her head. "Nothing, just eat." 

He smiled, "ok, I will. It's excellent, dear."

"Thank you," she smiled. She glanced around the table as everyone ate, grinning wide. She thought about how great it felt to have people in the house again and felt her heart warm. She then began to eat her own meal. 

"We might have to make this a regular occasion," James spoke up through the silence that came with the ingestion of a fantastic meal. 

If possible, Bella's smile widened. "I'd really like that," she looked over Doc, who nodded in agreement. 

James turned his eyes to Bella and smiled broadly, showing only adoration and love in his eyes. She felt her face flush and looked down at the table. The rest of the meal passed amidst pleasant conversation and laughter as Doc and Sarah told embarrassing stories about Isabella as a child. James laughed as he watched his bride's face turn deep red. 

"This is hardly fair," she smiled. "There's no way for me to retaliate." Despite her protests, she leaned over and kissed her groom's cheek. 

"Maybe I can convince mother to come out here someday," he smiled. "She'd be happy to fill your head with mortifying stories of me growing up."

"I'd like that," she grinned. 

"And then you shall have your revenge," he laughed. He sat back from the table, rubbing his hands over his full belly. "That was wonderful, honey." 

She smiled, standing. "Good. Now who wants cake?"

"Ooh, cake! Yes, that sounds excellent, Belle." 

She checked in with the other two before walking away from the table, feeling James watching her every move along the way. 

"James," Doc interjected. "My horse, Sweeney, has been limping and listing to the left a lot lately, and for the life of me I can't figure out what's wrong with him. What might be wrong with him? People I get, but animals..." he smiled as he drifted off. 

James turned to answer him, pausing to review the many maladies that could be plaguing the old animal. 

Bella reached for the cake to bring over, but suddenly she felt dizzy and lightheaded. Her vision blurred. She grabbed for the counter, but missed and fell to the floor. 

"BABY!!" James leapt from his seat and flew to her side. He pulled her into his arms and looked up, calling for Doc. He was already there, kneeling on her other side. 

"Lay her down, James," he instructed calmly. "Give her some air."

"Yes, sir," he did as he was told, laying her carefully on the wooden floor. He stepped back to allow Doc to do his work, afraid of what might happen next. He watched as the Doc moved over his love, listening to her breathing. He placed his hand on her belly as her eyes began to flutter, finally opening. She looked around for James, confused as to how she ended up on the floor. 

"I'm right here, Bella," he spoke as he moved back to her side. 

She looked up at him, obviously disoriented. "What happened?" She tried to sit up, but felt Doc lay his hand on her chest, pushing her back down. 

"Just stay down for a moment, Isabella," he admonished softly. 

"I'm ok," she insisted. "I just got really tired." She blinked her eyes fast, trying to regain a sense of balance and normalcy. "I think I just did too much today," she smiled sheepishly. 

James squatted down closer to her, looking to Doc to make sure it was ok. 

The older man nodded, backing away. "She's fine, James."

He sighed in relief, taking her hand gently. He helped her to slowly sit up, gently rubbing her back in small circles. 

"See, honey? I'm fine," she assured. 

"You scared me to death, love," he sighed. 

"I'm sorry," she allowed him to wrap his arms tightly around her, holding her close. "I guess I shouldn't have tried to do so much today."

He kissed her forehead softly. "It's fine, baby," he sighed, relieved. "I'm just so glad you're ok."

Doc stood from his position near the couple, and looked down at them with a small smile. "Yes, James, she is. But I still think you should take her up to bed. The Mrs. and I will be on our way."

James nodded. "Yes sir, of course. Do you need help with the buggy?"

He shook his head, "I've been hitching that horse up for years, son." He leaned down and softly kissed the top of Bella's head and then stood upright again. 

"Yes sir," James smiled ruefully. "Thanks for coming for dinner." He remained in his spot on the floor, cradling Belle gently in his arms. 

"Of course, it was delicious," he smiled. "Next time, it's at our house."

Sarah reached down and squeezed Bella's hand, and Bella smiled up and whispered good-bye to them both. Her gaze shifted to James as the older couple walked out. He kissed her forehead and closed his eyes for a moment as he held her. He then lifted her and carried her upstairs and laid her gently in bed. 

"I'm sorry I ruined the night," she spoke softly. 

"Oh, honey," he sighed. "You didn't ruin the night."

She smiled softly, "no, you and Doc should have been able to go in and finish that bottle of bourbon." 

"Shush," he whispered as he slowly undressed her. "Do you feel ok? Would you like a cool cloth? Anything?"

She shook her head. "I'm just tired." 

He covered her with the quilt and leaned down to kiss her, smiling as she fell asleep almost immediately. He then undressed himself and lay down next to her. She unconsciously curled into him and he wrapped his arms around her, holding her tight.



Love Rides a Chestnut Horse Ch. 13



Time passed quickly on the farm as the two fell more in love and prepared to start their family. They had a simple ceremony held in the church with Doc and Sarah as their witnesses, and couldn't be happier to finally be husband and wife. 

Eventually, September arrived, and the fall of the year slowly settled in. Bella was now four months pregnant, and her belly was now rounded, showing beneath her clothing as she moved about the farm and the town. People still whispered, but it was found that the pair was so much in love that they didn't care. 

As morning dawned, James walked out to the barn. He had purchased around seventy-five head of cattle at the end of the summer and wanted to ride out to the fields to check on them. Bella and Cappy stood on the porch watching as he came galloping out of the barn soon after, astride Beauty. He waved as they loped for the back field and Belle couldn't stop her smile as she watched James ride her beloved horse. 

She and Cappy headed back into the house to do her chores, hearing hoof beats pound up the drive again after about an hour. He walked into the house after seeing Beauty to his stall, calling for Bella. Her voice sounded from upstairs, and once there, he found her in the room that would soon be the baby's nursery. He looked around at the coat of paint he had put on it a few weeks prior, a bright cheerful yellow. Bella stood folding cloth diapers into the top drawer of a short brown dresser. He walked up behind her and slid his arms over her belly, hugging her gently. He kissed her on the top of the head and then kneeled before her, placing an ear to her stomach. 

"How's my boy?" he asked with a smile. It widened when his question was answered with a soft kick against Bella's stomach. "Aw, thanks, little man. Kicking Daddy in the face already, huh?"

"He was just answering you, baby," she smiled down at him. "He can't get word out any other way."

"I was planning on making a cradle," he glanced up at her as he stood. "But I also found your cradle down in the cellar and I just wondered which you would prefer."

She smiled, "Daddy really kept my cradle?"

"Yes," he brushed her hair back. "Of course."

"Well, if that one is in good condition," she shrugged. "I don't see a need to make a new one. Unless you want to."

"Ok, honey," he nodded. "I'll run down and get it." He headed down stairs and into the cellar, coming back up a few moments later with the cradle. He set it down on the kitchen floor to clean it off, looking over the sturdy little wooden structure. He lifted it once it was dusted off and carried it up the steps, walking back up to the baby's room. 

"Hey honey," he set it down as she turned to look at him. "What do you think? It might need a coat of varnish, some sanding... I don't know, you can decide."

As she looked down at it, she narrowed her eyes. "That wasn't mine," she looked up at James, confused.

"It was the only one down there." He shook his head. "Are you sure this isn't yours?"

She shook her head, "I'm sure. Mine had a little roof – I used to use it for my dolls when I was really little."

"Well, if you'd rather not use it, I can take it back down. Or we can even throw it out."

She looked up at him, shrugging. "I guess we can use it. Daddy made it for someone, after all."

"I can make one if you'd rather," he rubbed her back gently. "It's up to you, honey."

She nodded, "maybe you should. Just get rid of that one, ok?"

"Sure, Belle," he lifted it from the floor and carried it out to the barn. When he returned a few moments later, he walked back up to the nursery to find it empty. "Belle?" he called, walking around the rest of the house. As he again entered the kitchen, he noticed that the basement door was open. "Uh oh," he muttered. He started down the stairs, calling out "Honey?"

Her voice was soft as she answered, "I'm right here." 

He looked back to where she stood under the stairs, running her fingers over the soft sanded wood of the cradle. He walked over and pulled her close to him. 

"I don't know who this was for," she looked up at him. 

"Really?" he glanced over as she shook her head. "That's strange." 

She pulled away from him and looked around at the rest of the clutter in the basement. She sighed, "I should really clean this mess up." 

"I can do it, honey," he gave her belly a gentle rub as he smiled at her. He sighed inwardly in relief as she returned his smile and shook her head.

"It doesn't need to be done right now."

He nodded and followed her gaze to the toys littering the floor. "What on Earth did he do down here?"

He shrugged, "who knows, baby?"

She nodded, "I found some papers over there on the work bench."

She crossed over to it, rifling through the yellowed paper, trying to read the faded ink. "They're letters," she shook her head. "But I don't know who they're for..." her voice drifted off as she scanned them. "And they don't make any sense..." She took a seat on the old stool in front of the bench. James walked over and stood next to her, placing his arm around her shoulder for support. 

She pulled one out of the pile. "This is addressed to my grandfather. But he was dead long before I was born." Suddenly she gasped, dropped the letter to the table and turned, staring at the crib in the corner. 

James caught the letter as it dropped to the table, looking at Belle with concern. "What's wrong baby?"

"She..." her eyes were wide as she looked up at him. "She was pregnant."

"Who was pregnant, love?" he rubbed his hand up and down her back as he watched her face.

"Mama..." 

"Your mother?" he asked.

She nodded. "She was pregnant... when she died."

"Oh, Belle," he pulled her close. 

She reached over, running her fingers over wooden trains, toy horses, and smiling cowboys. "It must have been a boy. Daddy always wanted a son."

"But how would they have known?" he questioned.

She smiled up at him, touching her own protruding belly. "A mother always knows."

"Oh?" he smiled. "And what are we having? I know we've been calling it a boy forever, but do you think you really know?"

She nodded. "We've been calling him a boy because it is. And he's very excited to meet his daddy." He smiled at her and kissed her forehead. She sighed softly, "That's why daddy never got over it." 

James nodded, "it would have devastated him." Terror passed through his mind as he imagined losing both Bella and their child in one moment. 

"He didn't just lose Mama," she shook her head. "He lost his son, too. Did you throw the cradle away already?"

"No, baby. I didn't," he assured. "I put it in the barn." 

She smiled, nodding. "That's good. That's really good."

"Do you want to use it, Bella?" he asked softly. 

She grinned, "if you fix it up, do you think our baby can use my little brother's cradle?"

He kissed her forehead, "alright baby, I'll sand it down a little and re-varnish it. Does that sound good?"

She nodded, picking up the stack of letters, and prepared to carry them up the stairs. "Maybe some of these can still get to where they need to go."

"Do you want me to clean the toys too? And the crib?" he asked. 

She shrugged, "you should be able to make whatever you want for our baby. Take whatever you want, ok?" She laid her hand on his cheek, leaning forward and kissing him softly. 

"I want you to be happy," he assured. "We'll use what you want first and foremost, ok?" 

Bella smiled wide. "I am happy. I'm happier than I've been since I was seven."

"Good," he grasped her small hand in his and squeezed gently. He stood, and tossed a bunch of the toys in the crib. He headed out to the barn as she carried the stack of letters into the den to search through later. James walked into the workshop he had made for himself in the barn, running a hand over the nearly finished crib there that he had been working on for weeks. 

"Maybe another time," he sighed. He grabbed a cloth and carried it up into the loft. He pushed the cradle back into a dark corner and covered it up. He pulled down a bale of straw, pushing it in front of the covered cradle and headed back down the ladder. With a disappointed sigh, he grabbed a piece of sandpaper and began to rub down the old cradle. 

A while later, he heard Cappy's happy bark and looked up to see him and Bella walking down from the house. 

"Hey guys," he smiled as he worked. She leaned in and kissed his cheek as he rubbed the spindles on the cradle, smoothing out some rough patches. 

"Are you ok, James?"

He looked over at her. "Yea honey, I'm fine. Why?" Without waiting for an answer, he leaned back and studied the unfinished wood. "What do you think? A darker or lighter stain for the wood?"

She ignored his question and stuck to her original topic. "You just seem disappointed," she rubbed his back. 

"Now, why would I be disappointed, love?" He stood, looking into her eyes. He kissed her softly. "This is the happiest I've ever been."

She smiled with a small nod. "Ok, if you're sure."

James turned the cradle over and rubbed down the rockers. He glanced over at Bella with a wry grin. "So, what are you three up to?" he winked. 

She smiled wide. "We," she backed away a little, "are up to nothing." She turned and walked over to Beauty's stall, where the big horse stuck out his head and nuzzled her stomach while she laughed. "I know, buddy," she rubbed his nose. "The baby can't wait to meet you either."

He smiled, "you never said. Do you want a light or dark stain honey?"

She shrugged, "that doesn't matter to me."

"A reddish one might go well with the yellow," he tilted his head to the side. "But so might a dark one."

"Do you have to go into town to get it?" she asked. 

"No," he shook his head. "I have some here." He moved over to a cupboard and began looking through the small canisters. 

"Oh," she answers, somewhat disappointed. 

He smiled at her tone. "You know, actually we're low. I will have to run in and pick some up. Is there anything else I can bring you, my love?"

Her face lit up with a smile and he groaned. "Oh no, am I going to need the wagon?" 

"No," she smacked his arm lightly. "Your son and I would just really like some chocolate. Ok, a lot of chocolate."

He laughed. "Well, ok then. Chocolate it is." He walked to Leo's stall and saddled him quickly. Leaning down, he kissed his wife gently on the lips and then on the bellybutton. 

"Be careful," she warned. 

"I always am, love," he assured. He nudged Leo into a trot. As he reached the driveway he pushed the old horse into a fast lope. He heard Cappy barking as he chased him down the road, and he turned. "Go to Mama, Cappy, NOW!" 

The dog stopped, looking back into the barn. He took off and ran back up to Bella in the barn, jumping up on her and trying to lick her happily. 

"Good boy," he murmured as he watched, turning in the saddle again and urging Leo faster toward town. He hated leaving Bella alone for any length of time, but sometimes it was easier to try not to get her moving in her condition. 

Back in the barn, Bella scooped up the squirming puppy and walked back over to Beauty and Honey in their stalls. "Alright you two, tell me what he's been doing out here all the time." Looking around the barn, she noticed a hay bale in the loft that appeared to have been moved into a random spot. She wrinkled her nose in confusion and carefully climbed up into the loft. Seeing something behind the bale, she pushed it out of the way, accidentally knocking it down below where Cappy barked at it menacingly. She laughed as she heard him begin attacking it. Honey lets out a whinny that sounds almost as if she's laughing at the whole thing. Seeing the object behind it covered in a sheet, she pulled it off and gasped, bringing her hand to her mouth. 

The small wooden cradle was intricately carved, a small pillow already lying in it. She kneeled at the side, allowing the tears to run down her face. There are ornate hand carvings showing majestic horses and playful puppies were done on the head and footboards of the cradle. Bella ran her hand over it, reveling in its beauty. There are even little rings and baubles to play with attached to the spindles. Several coats of stain have brought the dark mahogany to a high sheen and she sighs, realizing it's the most beautiful thing she has ever seen. And more importantly, that James had built it out of love for their child. 

Wiping her tears, she sat there on the hay next to it. She sat there with her arms folded stubbornly, awaiting his return. Shortly after that, she heard hoof beats coming down the drive. Cappy stands at the bottom of the steps, wagging his tail. James came riding into the barn on Leo, the crate of chocolate bars under his arm and the stain shoved down into the saddle bag. 

He looked down at Cappy. "What the hell are you doing, dog?" He swung down from the saddle, calling out, "Baby? I got you all the chocolate they had." Upon not receiving an answer, he looked down at Cappy and called again. "Isabella? Where is she, bud?"

Cappy wagged his tail and looked up into the loft. "Thanks, little man." He took the stain out of the saddle bag and placed it and the chocolate on the work bench. As he walked back over, he realized that the hay bale he had placed in front of the cradle was now lying on the floor in the middle of the barn. 

"Hmm," he muttered, glancing around and seeing Belle back in the corner. "Honey," he called gently.

She looked up, "why didn't you just tell me?" She looked over at his cradle. 

"You seemed so happy to be using the one your dad made," he sighed. "I didn't want to take that away from you. I didn't want you to feel obligated."

"Obligated??" she cried, her eyes widening. 

He winced, "maybe that was the wrong word." 

"Of course I would want our son to sleep in the cradle that his daddy made him," she shook her head, her voice dropping to almost a whisper. 

"But what about your brother's?" he moved to sit on the ground next to her, looking up into her eyes. "I understand why you would want to use it."

She shook her head, eyes shining again with tears. "So help me, if you do not use this... I will break the other one myself."

"Alright," he smiled, squeezing her hands. He reached down and pulled it out into the light coming in the windows. The sunlight beamed off of it, making the carving look even more incredible. She shook her head as tears filled her eyes again. 

"Come on, baby. There's chocolate downstairs," he smiled as he helped her up. He tucked the cradle under his arm and led her down out of the loft. As they reached the bottom, he pointed to the large crate on the table. It stood about six inches tall and was twelve by twelve inches otherwise. 

Her face lit up and she clapped her hands, heading over to it. "Thank you," she smiled as she leaned up and kissed him on the cheek. 

"For what, Belle?" he smiled down into her face as he pulled out his knife and popped the crate open. He pulled out a candy bar and handed it to her. 

She took it from him, glancing back up into his eyes. "For everything," she smiled as she took it from his hand.



Love Rides a Chestnut Horse Ch. 14



Fall passed in a blur of preparations and planning. The pair had dinner with Doc and Sarah often, and Sarah doted on Bella even more the more pregnant she got. Every night as they lay in bed, James would talk to her belly, telling stories about his childhood, passing on fairy tales and old myths. Anything he could think of to talk about. He told Bella he wanted the baby to know his voice before he arrived. 

They had a quiet Christmas, just the two of them. James gave Bella a lovely diamond pendant to match her engagement ring and wedding band. Bella gave James a stunning pair of cufflinks that had been her father's. They laid on the rug in front of the fire for hours, watching it snow and making love to one another. It was a beautiful holiday, one they would always remember as their first and finest. 

On a cold January morning, James walked up on the porch, shaking off the snow before walking into the house. He pulled off the big coat that kept him warm each day and hung it on the coat rack along with his hat and a scarf.

"Man, it's coming down out there," he shivered as Cappy trotted up to him. "Not that you'd know, you big wimp," he laughed. 

Bella waddled into the kitchen from the living room and smiled up at him. "Cappy doesn't like to be cold and wet." 

"Hi baby," he smiled. 

She looked up at him. "Your baby says hello, and that he's ready to come out because he's driving mommy crazy!"

"Aw," he smiled, walking up behind her as she stood in front of the sink and hugging her from behind. 

She gasped as his ice cold hands made contact with her warm body. "Cold hands!!!" She jumped away with a shiver. 

"Oops," he laughed. "Sorry, Belle. Are you ok?"

"Wow," she shuddered once again. "It is cold out there!" 

He reached down and grabbed her backside. "Yes," he grinned as she jumped, "it sure is." As he finished, he spun her around and kissed her lips deeply. He sucked her tongue lightly and then groaned, resting his forehead against hers. "Damn it, I want you so bad."

She released an almost musical giggle. "Sorry, love. Nothing goes until something comes out."

He nodded, "I know. It's just been a very long time," he stuck out his lower lip in a pout, looking down into her eyes. He moved his head and began nibbling gently along her ear. 

"Well," she smiled. "You can tell him to hurry up, then."

He reached down and carefully poked her stomach. "Hey little man, let's get a move on." As he finished, the baby kicked hard and Bella winced. 

"Sorry, love." He grinned down at her. "So what's for lunch?"

"Hmm," she furrowed her brow. "I'm not sure," she spoke as she crossed the kitchen to the icebox. 

"I can fix something, honey," he hurried over to her. "You should sit down. Please."

She waved him off. "I'm fine, don't worry. Let's see," she bent to look inside and see what she could fix for James. But as she bent, she gasped loudly.

"Baby?!" James hurried up to her as she looked down. "Are you ok?" he questioned as he followed her gaze, seeing water on the floor. 

She glanced up at him with wide eyes. "I think he heard you," she groaned. 

"Oh, hell," he muttered. "Baby sit down," he guided her to a chair. "I'll get the wagon."

Bella nodded as she sat with her hands on the sides of her massive belly. James flew out the door to hitch Leo to the wagon, leaving his coat and gloves behind in his haste. Bella closed her eyes in pain and cried out as the first contraction hit. As he pulled the wagon up to the house, he could hear her cries. He grabbed the blankets that he'd had ready for week and then ran into the house to find Bella curled in a ball on the floor, screaming in pain. Cappy whined next to her, licking her face and her tears. 

James wrapped her up in the blankets, making sure that she was warm. He whispered soothing words to her as he carried her out and laid her in the back of the wagon. Despite the freezing cold, she was sweating and panting heavily as he nested her in the straw.

"We'll be at Doc's as soon as possible, baby. Just hang on, please," he pleaded as he took in her shaking form. 

Just as he jumped into the seat and cracked the whip for Leo to move, Bella's scream pierced the night as the next contraction began. Leo seemed to sense the need for haste and sped up even more, flying down the drive. They hit the corner and turn sharply onto the road, skidding the wagon and flying for town. James drove, shaking the reins and looking back at Bella every few moments. 

"Just hang on, love," he called. 

Bella curled up in the blankets, sobbing as her body was wracked with pain. They arrived in town in record time, skidding to a stop in front of Doc's. He picked her up from the back and carried her into the house, booting the door open and calling for Doc and Sarah as he entered. Sarah appeared at the top of the stairs and then came running down, screaming for Doc to hurry. He followed close behind.

"Her water broke," he gasped. His face was a mix of calm and panic all at once. Just then, Bella screamed into his shoulder as another contraction begins. "Please, Doc, help her," he cried, shaking his head. 

Doc nodded, "bring her in here, James." He opens the door to the exam room and James runs inside with Bella in his arms. "Lay her here, son."

James gently laid her on the table, stroking her face. He murmured soft words of comfort and support to her, all the while wishing there were something he could do to stop the pain. 

Doc laid a gentle hand on James' shoulder, making him look up. "Now wait outside, James," he spoke firmly but soft. 

"I can't stay with her??" his eyes were wide as he stared back at the older man. 

"No, James," he shook head. "But I promise you I'll take care of her."

He nodded, "I know you will. Do you mind if I put Leo in your barn, then?"

"No, son," he shook his head. "Not at all."

James nodded, standing slowly and walking away. His hands were shaking slowly with both excitement and fear. He heard Belle scream his name as another contraction overtook her. "Baby," he whispered. He looked at Doc pleadingly, but the old man simply shook his head. He ushered James out the door and closed it behind him. As the nurse hurried past him and closed the door, he recalled that Leo was standing outside in the freezing weather and that he was already sopping wet from his run. 

He walked outside and unhitched him, leading him around to the back of the house, walking him into the barn waiting there. He stood shaking from the cold while James rubbed him down, trying not to worry about what was happening inside. He could still hear Belle's cries coming from inside the house. His arms tensed every time she cried out. Feeling him tense, Leo turned and nuzzled him for comfort. "Thanks, old man," he smiled. He covered the horse with a thick blanket and gave him some hay and water. He then took a deep breath and walked back around and into the house. 

As he walked through the door, he heard a baby's wail joining in with Bella's. He looked up, his eyes lighting up. Sarah walked over and hugged him tight whispering congratulations in his ear. A few moments later, Doc's nurse came out with a tiny bundle wrapped in a blue blanket. He met her as she approached him. 

"May I?" he smiled, his eyes filling with tears. At her nod, he reached out his arms tentatively. He slowly took the tiny baby from her. "It's a boy?" he asked softly, not looking away from the tiny face. She nodded and stepped back into the exam room hurriedly. 

"Hi there," he whispered. "How's my boy?" He stroked the tiny face with his fingertip, watching as he turned his mouth toward the touch. His smile widened and he glanced back up to where the nurse had been, surprised to see her gone. He looked to Sarah instead.

"How is she?" he asked somewhat frantically. 

"I'm not sure, James," she shook her head. "Just wait for Doc." 

He sighed, "I need to see her. We both do," he looked back down at the tiny face of his son. 

"Did you two talk about names?" she asked as the baby took hold of James' finger. 

He nodded, "we did a little. She wanted to wait till he was here."

The exam room door opened and Doc came out, drying his hands on a towel. James looked up at him with wide eyes. 

"Is she ok?" he asked as he hurried to meet him.

Doc nodded, "she will be, James. She lost a lot of blood, and we'll have to wait and just give her some time. But odds are that she'll be fine."

James felt his face go pale. It was as if all the blood was leaving his body and at the same time the sound of it moving through his body was deafening in his ears. "You're sure? I mean, she will be?"

"She just needs rest, James. It's a lot of work, pushing one of those out," he smiled, relaxing for the first time since James had pushed open their door earlier that evening. 

"Can I see her?" he asks with a pleading gaze. 

Doc nodded, stepping back and opening the door. "Go on in," he spoke softly. 

"Thank you, sir," he held out his left hand while supporting the baby with his right. "For everything." 

Doc shook his hand. "It has absolutely been my pleasure. Now, go see your wife."

James made his way into the room, seeing Bella asleep on the bed. Her skin was pale, and there were dark circles under her eyes, but he could see the gentle rise and fall of her chest. At that moment, that was all that mattered. He pulled a chair over and sat next to her, not wanting to bother her. He held the baby, talking to him softly as he rocked in the chair. 

Hearing his voice, Belle began to awaken. He saw her eyelids flutter and leaned forward. 

"Hi, baby doll," his voice was a low murmur. He reached out his hand to hers, feeling her weakly wrap her fingers around his. Her eyes opened slowly, and he smiled down at her. "It's ok. Doc said you'd be weak. He said you lost a lot of blood, but that you'll be ok." He stroked her arm gently as he spoke. 

She blinked her eyes dazedly, but gathered strength as if she were preparing to speak. 

"Shh," he murmured. "Just rest, love."

She shook her head. "The baby?" she managed to whisper.

He turned the small bundle toward her so that she could see him. A soft smile covered her face, and then she looked back up at him. 

James got on his knees next to the bed so that she could touch him. She reached out her hand, brushing it over the baby's soft face. Letting her hand slide down and touch his tiny fingers, her smile widened. He leaned in and kissed her forehead.

"I did it?" she smiled.

"You sure did, my love," he grinned wide. 

"Good," her eyes drifted close again and she fell asleep against the soft pillows.

He smiled, moving back to the chair and sitting back, rocking the baby gently. He watched the two of them as they slept and leaned back in the rocker. He suddenly felt very weary himself and yawned. 

Doc walked into the room and saw James struggling to stay awake in the rocker, the baby clutched to his chest. "James," he spoke softly so as not to wake either Bella or the baby. "Why don't you get some sleep?"

He shook his head, "I'll be ok." As exhausted as he was, he couldn't keep the smile from taking over his face. 

"You're going to need your strength, son." 

"I know, sir," he nodded. "Just let me stay up a little longer. I don't want to put him down. I want to enjoy this just a little bit longer."

Doc smiled, "ok, James." He rolled a bassinet over next to him and James carefully leaned down and placed the baby into it. As he sat back in the rocker and reached a finger out for the baby to grasp, he saw Belle's eyelids flutter again. 

"Baby?" she whispered.

"He's asleep, Belle," he spoke softly back to her as he moved closer. "Want me to pick him back up for you?"

She shook her head. "No honey, you don't have to."

He reached out with his free hand and set it on the bed. She took it and held it gently as he ran her thumb back and forth over the back of her hand. 

"He needs a name," she spoke so softly he had to strain to hear. 

"How about John Patrick?" he looked into her eyes as he spoke. "After my dad and yours, I thought that would be nice."

She nodded with a small smile. "John Patrick, that's perfect. Can I hold him?"

He nodded, getting up and grabbing the pillows from the next bed. He propped her up carefully; mindful of the painful winces she tried to hide from him. He then reached into the bassinet and lifted the tiny baby, placing him in her arms.

Her face took on a beautiful glow as she looked down into his face with a huge smile. James settled on the edge of the bed and watched his beautiful wife and son. 

"Hi John," she whispered as she gently brushed her fingers over his face. 

He watched her, captivated by the sight of his wife and their son. His face beamed with pride which grew only greater as Bella smiled up at him. He reached out and ran his fingers gently down her cheek. "I love you so much," he sighed. "Both of you – more than I ever thought I could love anyone."

"I love you, too," she smiled softly up at him. "Thanks for coming home with me that day. Thanks for making my life worth living again." 

James lay down on the bed next to her, wrapping his arms around both her and John. As they all settled in together, each drifted off to sleep. And hours later, when Doc came to check in on the new little family, that was how he found them.