Didn't blink. You got something to say? Say it. Clay grinned. She's a wild one, ain't she?
Should have seen her run. We was just having some fun. Cole stood slowly, set the tin cup down. The room went quiet except for the sound of boots shifting on the floor. You come near my land again, you won't walk away.
Cole said, voice flat as iron. Clay's grin slipped but didn't vanish. You think you can keep her? Cole's hand hovered near his gun, but didn't draw. I think you should finish your drink and ride the other direction.
The bartender cleared his throat and muttered, "Boys, take it outside or take it somewhere else." Clay glanced at his friend, then spat near the stove and walked out, the door slamming behind him. Cole waited a long minute before following, making sure they were headed out of town. He didn't like leaving them behind angry, but at least he knew their faces now, and that meant he could be ready. By the time he rode back, the sun was high. He spotted smoke from the chimney before he reached the cabin.
Nia was outside, crouched near the garden patch, a stick in her hand, turning the soil. "She stood quickly when she saw him." "You saw them?" she asked. "I saw them," Cole said, sliding off the horse. Her eyes were searching his face. "They come here." "Not yet," Cole said.
"Might try, but they know I'm watching." Nia's shoulders eased a little, though she still gripped the stick like a weapon. Come inside, Cole said. I brought flour. We can make bread. It was a small thing, but she followed him in, set the stick by the door, and washed her hands.
Together, they mixed the dough at the table, her hands working next to his. For the first time since she'd come, there was a trace of calm in her face. After the bread went in the stove, Cole showed her how to load the rifle properly. She listened carefully, her brow furrowed. And when she tried it herself, she handled it steady.
No shake in her hands. That's good, Cole said. Only if you need to. I know, Nia said quietly. That night, they ate the fresh bread with beans and sat near the fire.