Lone Star 01 (25 page)

Authors: Wesley Ellis

BOOK: Lone Star 01

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They started down the boardwalk toward the hotel, as Daryl ejected spent cartridges from his Remington. “I guess that takes care of that, then. You'll be leaving tomorrow, back to Texas?”

Ki didn't answer. Jessica also didn't respond for a long moment, but finally said, “Well, we might have to stay over for the inquest. There's sure to be one held, don't you think?”

“If not, there should be,” Daryl answered, cheering.

“Plus the investigation,” Ki added.

“Into the rustling and parkland swindle?”

“No, Daryl, I had more in mind into how Deputy Oakes's horse got from the canyon to the livery stable. Not to mention the disappearance of his clothes. I doubt he'll have forgotten that.”

“Not much to fret over,” Jessica said. “After tonight, the deputy's goose has been burnt to a frazzle.” She turned to smile at Daryl. “Since we'll probably be staying in Eucher Butte a few more days, maybe we should spend it searching for your stock.”

“I know where the stolen herds are. Up in some box canyons at the far end of Ryker's ranch,” Ki said, then he let out a wearied sigh. “I'm not feeling up to it, I'm afraid. I need a rest.”

“That is a shame,” Jessica consoled. “Well, you just stay resting up in your room. But my, I do dislike riding alone.”

Daryl moistened his lips. “Reckon I might be able to fill in. They are my cows, after all.” He reflected a bit longer, then suggested, “How âbout if I slept over the night at the hotel, and me and you take a ride over thataway after breakfast tomorrow?”

“Whatever you think best,” Jessica said primly.

“Good,” Ki remarked with a flicker of a smile as they stepped into the lobby of the hotel. “I can see everybody is going to get a hell of a rest.”

Look for

LONE STAR AND THE OPIUM RUSTLERS and LONE STAR AND THE BORDER BANDITS

two more novels in the hot new
LONE STAR series from Jove

available now!