Arkansas Smith (12 page)

Arkansas shook Will’s hand one more time and then mounted the sorrel. He adjusted his hat, pulling the brim down to shield his eyes from the fierce sun.

‘I’ll be seeing you.’

‘Sure.’ Will nodded and simply turned and walked back into his cabin. They had said their goodbyes and there was nothing more to be said. Each understood the other.

It had been a week since the fire. John Lance had perished and taken the secrets of his schemes and indeed the full extent of his crimes to the grave with him.

Arkansas hadn’t seen Rebecca since they taken a tumble from the burning house that day. As far as he knew she was staying at her hotel in Red Rock for the time being. She would no doubt need to grieve before deciding on her future.

He had thought about trying to see her but had decided against it. She’d known where he was and if there were anything to be said she’d be able to find
him at Will’s place, but she hadn’t come and now it was too late.

He took one last look around and smiled when his eyes fell on the horses in the corral. Will had claimed them from Lance’s own stock, saying it was only fair compensation considering all he had been through. The wind was starting to pick up and although the sun blazed down there was the hint of a coming storm in the air. Winter wasn’t that far off and was already making its presence felt.

‘Come on, girl.’ Arkansas patted the side of sorrel’s head and set her off in a steady trot. He headed across the valley floor, towards the mountains and whatever lay beyond.

The Tarnished Star