The Legend of Kitty McKay

a novel by

MJR

PROLOGUE

In the small town of Platte Falls, just east of the Missouri River, there lies an old legend among the locals. A tale from the days of the ‘Wild West’. It remains mostly unknown, the story being passed from generation to generation by residents of the township. The exact date and years are not recorded in any book, but the dime novels and newspapers first reading headlines of a female outlaw name Kitty McKay originated somewhere in the 1880's.

The story began a few miles outside the modest city, atop a rolling green hill. Large and daunting oak trees flanked the simple two-story white farm house. Cows graze freely on the lush green pasture, and the chirping of the chickens in the hen house filled the ears of any passerby. This quaint living space belonged to the McKay family.

The McKay’s, headed by the Mr. Joshua McKay, were widely known throughout Platte Falls as being the kindest to settle there to date. Joshua’s father was the first mayor of the town, and it was the only place he ever wanted to live. Yes, this was the place he wanted to start a family. He was familiar with the land, he had good friends, and a plot of country that he inherited from his grandfather. But there was one thing that this town had not yet provided the young farmer. A wife.

Joshua had been raised in such a way that he had always had girls chase after him. His father was a prominent public figure for many years, and as his son Joshua was expected to attend any and all gatherings with his family. The girls of the town doted on him. He was not ignorant to the giggles and shy waves they so often accosted him with. The girls were no doubt beautiful, but in his heart Joshua knew there was something else meant for him. Someone else.

One day, one idle day, outside the train station Joshua bumped into a woman. Her fiery red hair and flawless fair skin knocked the air completely from his lungs. She was the one. After apologizing many times (so many he felt foolish), he finally asked her name. The maiden smiled politely, a twinkle of interest in her eyes, and answered him. Kate.

Joshua spent the next few months courting her, spending every waking moment with this amazing new woman in town. It turned out that she was the new seamstress for the general store owned by old Marty Woodsworth. Kate was also quite taken with this adorably energetic man that was so eager to please her. His brown hair and matching brown eyes drew her in, and soon they claimed her. After only five short months of courting, they were married. Many folks around town were a bit surprised that this young couple, both of them barely into their twenties, would get married so fast... but no one said a word. It was so obvious that they were in love; deeply and truly. The kind of love that lasts forever.

They were no doubt quite an odd pairing. The now-retired mayor’s son wed to the child of an Irish immigrant. But some say that it were their differences that made their life so much richer. They settled on Joshua’s inherited land and built a strong and sturdy farm. The couple worked hard to make all their dreams come true.

It would be on the third Christmas together that Kate would fulfill one of their deepest wants. Mrs. McKay was with child. Life on the McKay plantation would be busy with a new baby in a matter of months. News of the expanding McKay family spread throughout Platte Falls like wild fire. There was not a single person in town that was not ecstatic to hear the word. The town’s most beloved couple deserved nothing less.

However, Joshua’s wife is not the ‘Kitty’ that the famous legend is all about. No, this would be the child born to the two love birds on a sweet July morning. After thinking long and hard about a name for their perfect daughter, the decision was unknowingly made by the house cat who immediately took quite a liking to the new addition in the family. Miss Kitty McKay, daughter of the two most proud parents west of the Mississippi.

Kitty grew up in a loving household, she was taught by her mother at home as well as in the small school house in town. By her sixteenth birthday she had already been labeled the best seamstress in town, alongside her mother of course. The McKay Sewing Company soon grew too big for the old general store. After saving up much of their earnings, the McKay women opened up a small dress shop in town.

Kitty’s interests did not lie solely in sewing, however. She was a very accomplished horseback rider, and could rival a lot of the boys working in the fields. She had inherited her fathers’ strong work ethics and patiently listened to everything her father spoke of. Kitty grew to be very independent, much to her parents liking, and strived to be a well rounded individual. After all, these days a girl had to be tough living in the country.

Along with her parents, the people of Platte Falls adored Kitty. She was no doubt beautiful, a perfect blend of her parents. Kitty had long, flowing brownish-red hair with deep brown eyes. She was also very kind and generous. Kitty especially had a soft spot for children. They loved her, and she loved them. Kitty and Kate together made all the costumes for the plays the school produced, and they were also the prime authority for making the perfect wedding dresses.

Joshua, Kate, and Kitty were a team. The unbreakable bond of family surrounded them, even after the death of Joshua’s father. Since Joshua’s mother had passed away years ago and he was without any siblings, the three McKay’s on the farm were all that was left.

Their business and farm prospered greatly, and all was right in their world. Kitty had just celebrated her eighteenth birthday a couple of months earlier when things started to change in her home town. A cold September breeze swept through the city, leaving an eerie chill behind. Something in the air was stirring, churning, and bubbling with an unseen force. Rumors of outlaws in the area were spreading fast. The riders would tread into unsuspecting towns and rob the banks blind.

First it was across the state. Then it happened in the city Independence. Then once more at Liberty. The deadly band of outlaws were lead by the fierce Jimmy Rogue. The lot of them were usually found in the papers as being labeled ‘The Rogue Riders’. They were becoming infamous, rolling into towns and killing innocent people while they stole and pillaged. The town of Platte Falls was unknowingly their next target.

The events that took place in Platte Falls were horrific and no doubt life changing. This is what truly started the legend of Kitty McKay.

One

Chance Meetings

The wagon bumbled down the dirt road most uncomfortably. The ride to town was especially uncomfortable for the two young ladies sitting behind the main seat. For the thousandth time Kitty tried to sit up straight and smooth out the front of her dress. She always wanted to look her best when she was in town, especially since she made most of the dresses every woman within twenty miles wore.

Their daily voyage on this cloudy morning was accompanied by Kitty’s dearest friend, Amelia Hawk. Amelia, or Mia as she was sometimes called, helped the McKay women run their sewing company. While Mia was not very good at stitching, she rivaled everyone when it came to organizing and book keeping. The teamwork of the three women made McKay Sewing Company the most prosperous business in Platte Falls.

“The horses are treading a little rough today,” Kitty spoke up, inwardly groaning when the wagon hit another rock in the road. “Aren’t they father?”

Joshua glanced back briefly to eye his daughter. He smiled a little bit and snapped the reigns. His Kitty was very observant, although even he had to admit that the ride was unusually rough. He looked down at the two horses pulling the small wagon. “I think old Sam has just about had his fill of lugging the bunch of us around.”

Kitty frowned. “Do you think he is getting too old?”

Joshua shrugged his shoulders. “He’s slowing down, that’s for sure.” He hesitated and glanced at his wife, sitting right next to him. Kate gave him an encouraging smile.

“Perhaps we need to find a horse better suited for our travel, and retire Sam to just riding around the farm.” Kate suggested, her bright eyes sparkling.

Kitty noticed the looks being passed between her parents, and she knew there was a hidden meaning behind their words. Sam was a very faithful horse, and it was true that he was aging. However, they had two other horses at home that could easily replace him. Unless...

“Kitty!” Amelia squealed beside her. Her voice was high pitched and excited. A little too excited. “Are you getting a horse?”

Kitty’s surprised expression made the entire group shake in a fit of laughter. “Mom ... Dad? Are you?”

Kate tried to suppress her laughter, but it did not work. “Are we - what, dear?”

Kitty looked to her father; she knew he couldn’t keep a secret very well. “Well?”

Joshua nodded his head and turned down a smaller road towards a farm. “I talked to Henry Johnson a few weeks ago. It was supposed to be a birthday present, but money has been a little tight and–“

Without another word Kitty threw her arms around her father. This was the best belated birthday present she could ever ask for. Granted, she had been riding horses ever since she was a child, but there had not yet been a horse solely for her - yet. “Thank you both so much!” As soon as she released her parents from the tight embrace, Kitty gave Amelia a hug as well. “And don’t you look innocent, friend. I know you were in on this!”

Amelia shrugged her shoulders and smiled. “You know I can’t be left out on a big secret like this!”

Kitty shook her head and the excitement mounted inside of her as they rode towards the Johnson farm, which was conveniently located just outside town. She breathed in the sweet scent of nature deep into her lungs. It was so pretty this time of the year. Long over were the hot days of summer, but the bitterness of winter was still months away. The perfect time of year.

Both Kitty and Amelia nearly jumped out of the wagon as soon as they reached the fence. On the other side of it were over twenty beautiful stallion horses. They ran on the plains so freely that their movements were graceful. The sight was so magnificent Kitty could hardly believe she was going to own one.

“Which one is mine?” Kitty whispered reverently at her father, who was standing beside her now.

Joshua swept his arm across the view. “Take your pick.” Kitty looked at him incredulously. He could not possibly be serious. Joshua chuckled at his daughters’ befuddlement.

Kitty lost all track of time as she walked out into the open field towards the horses. Mr. Johnson followed her into the pasture with a big grin on his face.

“A lot of people say that I own these horses. But it’s not true.” Kitty gave the man a confused look, and he grinned even more. “I don’t own them and they don’t own me. We’re a team.” The burly man walked a little closer towards her, putting a hand on her shoulder. “Choose the one you trust, Miss McKay. Because if you trust your horse, it will do whatever you ask of it.”

Kitty nodded her head. For once the peculiar man was right. But how was she supposed to pick one horse from this entire field of horses? It was impossible, they were all amazing. Different colors, different sizes. She hardly even knew where to start.

Kitty could see her father, mother, and friend standing alongside the fence waiting for her selection. With a heavy sigh she turned around and surprisingly was faced the wide snout of a horse. Taking a few steps back, Kitty began to smile. A beautiful black stallion had walked over to her, and was now getting very friendly with her hair.

She felt the hot puffs of air against her cheek as the horse lovingly nudged her. “Well, I think I found a keeper.” Kitty brought her hand up to stroke the side of its head. “Actually, you found me - didn’t you?”

Farmer Johnson clapped his hands together joyously. “Ah, she’s a beauty isn’t she Miss McKay? A fine choice if I do say so myself.”

Kitty smiled at the man. Mr. Johnson was known as being a little outlandish in these parts, but right now Kitty thought he was the most generous man in the world. “I can’t believe this is my horse! She’s beautiful!”

“Well believe it, my dear.” Her father responded. He was gleaming from ear to ear. “Happy Birthday.”

Amelia then chose that moment to present Kitty with a saddle she had purchased for her. It suited the horse perfectly and Kitty climbed up to ride her horse for the very first time. Immediately she felt comfortable and at ease, and she could tell the horse did as well.

“What will you name it?” Her mother asked her.

Kitty looked down to the smooth and silky black mane. It reminded her of the darkest nights, when the stars would shine brightly and contrast against the black sky. A smile curved her lips. “Midnight.”

After parting with her parents, she took off towards town on her own. This was not the first time she had rode a horse into town, though. In fact she had been doing that for many years now. Especially since she had finished her schooling and now worked at the dress shop every day. But now she was riding her horse. Her very own horse that only she would ride.

The two of them spliced through the air, which was unusually cold this morning, like the wind was not even there. Kitty felt her hair blowing in the wind, and she had never felt a better sensation in all her life. Even though she was from a small town where everyone knew her, she suddenly was filled with a sense of mystery.

The outlaws in the dime novels always rode up into towns on stallions. Kitty closed her eyes and pretended she was Belle Starr, riding into town in search of danger and adventure. Of course, that was just a dream.

She was actually in town to go to the post office for her mother, before heading back to work and finishing the wedding dress for bride-to-be Jennifer Gaines. Miss Gaines was just a few months older than Kitty, and she had done nothing but stir up trouble since the day she walked into the dress shop.

Jennifer was always a girl who liked to shake up the lives of everyone in Platte Falls. But sometimes it seemed - to Kitty at least - that Jennifer particularly liked to make trouble especially for her. Kitty and her mother were awarded the honor of doing the alterations for Miss Gaines wedding gown. The beautiful dress had been handed down to the bride by her mother, but Jennifer had insisted to have some minor alterations done in order for it to suit her better.

This would not have been a big ordeal if it had been anyone else. But it was a widely known fact that Mr. and Mrs. Gaines had spoiled Jennifer rotten, and it showed fully and completely. Jennifer never held back any of her musings or complaints. None. At all. Ever. This is precisely why Kitty was going to take her time at the post office and make as much small talk as she could with the postman.

Midnight strode down the dirt road of the main street into Platte Falls like she had done this every day. Kitty was still completely shocked by the events of this morning, but it was all starting to feel very natural for her. And she could not help but notice the admiring stares of onlookers standing outside the Saloon.

The town of Platte Falls was small, and by no means perfect. But it certainly did have charm. Its population was a little over one hundred, but it was steadily growing as more people settled within the territory.

Kitty halted the horse and swung her legs over the side, jumping off swiftly to land on the ground. She led Midnight to the railing post and tied the reigns around it. Moving to the side, she pulled the letter outside the small pouch on the side of her saddle. Patting gently on her horses back she whispered softly, “I’ll be right back.”

She sorted through the letters while she headed down the walkway towards the post office. Most of the correspondence was directed towards the supply factories they ordered their thread and fabrics from. Obviously their business was prospering; her mother was putting quite a few orders. Still thumbing through the mail, Kitty wrinkled her nose. Weren’t there more than three? She could have sworn there were four of them.

Kitty became so preoccupied in what she was doing, she was caught completely off guard when she ran into a gentleman walking past her. Her mail was flung up in the air in surprise and quickly fluttered to the ground.

An embarrassed blush crept onto her cheeks and immediately she bent down to pick up her fallen letters. “I am so sorry!” Kitty guiltily apologized, and began to pick up her things. She could be such a klutz sometimes. The stranger bent down to help her. “I wasn’t paying attention and -”

“It is quite alright, Miss.” The man’s gentle voice reassured her. He had a slight British accent that caught Kitty’s attention.

She looked up to give another apology, but she forgot everything she was about to say when her eyes collided with crystal blue ones. The young man that knelt before her was breathtakingly handsome. He wore a short dark brown top hat above his head of light brown hair, which was right now covering his right eye. Almost as if he read her thoughts, he jerked his head a little to clear his vision. His eyes were dancing in amusement, and Kitty felt the butterflies multiply in her stomach.

“I’m afraid I am also to blame.” He admitted sheepishly, ducking his head to avoid her gaze. “I must admit, my mind was on other matters as well.”

Kitty smiled even more and slowly stood up, taking her last fallen letter from his hand. Their fingers gently brushed against one another and the butterflies in her stomach intensified. What was wrong with her? She was acting like a small school girl with a crush. Wait... did she just giggle? Out loud? Oh brother.

“Well it seems we have come at an impasse then.” Kitty brushed the hair away from her face. She noticed the fine clothes the young man, who looked about as old as she, was wearing. She also noticed the small suitcase he was holding and shot him a curious look. “Are you new in town, Mister...?”

“Thomas.” He finished for her, with a charming smile on his face. “Jackson Thomas.”

Kitty smiled and took his outstretched hand to shake it. “Kitty McKay, it’s nice to meet you Mr. Thomas.”

He happily surprised her when he brought her hand and placed a gentle kiss upon it. “The pleasure is all mine, Miss McKay. And please... call me Jack.”

When she was sure that she was not going to faint, Kitty looked away and cleared her throat. She was pretty sure that her entire face was red now. This was without a doubt the most charming man she had ever met. She could not stop smiling.

“I just arrived in town this morning.” He answered the question that Kitty had completely forgotten she’d asked. He must have noticed her obvious state of dishevel, because his expression was immediately concerned. “Are you sure you’re alright? I hope our collision did not injure you.”

“Oh no,” Kitty smiled warmly. “I’m fine, really.” She loved new people in town. Especially this new person in town.

“Could I accompany you anywhere?” Realizing that might have been too forward, he quickly corrected himself. “Unless you have other pressing matters, of course.”

Accompany her somewhere? Would it be too blatant to tell him she would follow him anywhere? Kitty shook those ridiculous thoughts from her mind. What was going on with her today? “I was just on my way to the post office. You are more than welcome to join me... if you’d like.”

This seemed to please him and he immediately offered her his arm. It was only a short walk down to the post office, but my did they get a lot of observers. Kitty noticed almost all the locals who walked by giving her a bright smile. She could also see a few of the school children whispering and giggling at them.

There were some disadvantages of living in a small town, and this was certainly one of them. Everyone knew Kitty had yet to find a husband, so it became a town-wide scandal when she was seen strolling with someone. Kitty was pretty sure the ladies in the dress shop would be hearing of this escapade, as insignificant as it was, within a matter of minutes. Word traveled fast in this town.

They quickly arrived at the post office, and it was no wonder Jack had trouble finding it. All the buildings in Platte Falls looked almost exactly alike. The only difference from this one was the sign bore the symbol of the United States Postal Service. Just as Kitty had known, the reliable postmaster Clarence Townsend was manning the front desk. He had been there since Kitty was a child, and he was a dear friend of her parents.

“Well good morning, Miss McKay!” Mr. Townsend greeted joyfully. The tall and skinny man was always in a very good mood. He was truly a man who loved his job. His eyes were immediately drawn to the strapping young man that was accompanying her. “And who is this fine young man - an acquaintance of yours no doubt?”

Kitty smiled politely. “Mr. Townsend, this is Mr. Jackson Thomas. He just arrived in Platte Falls this morning.”

“A newcomer?!” The postman exclaimed and robustly shook hands with the other man. “I’m Clarence Townsend, my boy. Glad to meet ya! We just love new folks in these parts, don’t we Miss McKay?”

“We sure do.” Kitty said rather breathlessly. She felt extremely foolish when she realized she was staring at Mr. Thomas again. Directing her attention to the matter at hand, she gave Mr. Townsend her letters.

He gladly took them from her and looked behind the desk. “Are you expecting any more packages today? Maybe one for your mother, perhaps?”

Kitty thought for a moment. “I think she may have ordered something last week, but I doubt that would have gotten here yet.”

He shook his head. “Nothing yet, but the second I get something I’ll let you know.”

She smiled and thanked him, stepping away from the desk. Occasionally she could feel his gaze on her and she would look up to see him smiling at her. His teeth were straight and pearly white - very uncommon for a man in these parts. No, he was definitely not from Missouri.

With a final wave goodbye they exited the post office and Kitty knew it was time for her to head to work. She turned to her newly formed friend and smiled. For some reason the thought of parting with him was not welcome at all. “I guess I should probably get to work now.”

A sad smile graced his lips and he politely tipped his hat at her. “It was very nice to meet you, Miss McKay. I do hope our paths will cross again on my visit.”

He is also more polite than any guy in town, Kitty mused. “My mother and I own the tailor and dress shop across the street - McKay Sewing Company.”

“Perhaps I will have a suit in need of mending.” He replied with a hint of teasing.

“Perhaps you should stop by then.” Kitty teased back. Her face turned solemn again. “I am still sorry about running you over earlier.”

“It was no hardship,” Jack stated. “In fact I’m rather delighted we met, Miss McKay.”

“You can call me Kitty.”

He nodded his head and started to back away from her. He did not want their interlude to end either. “I’ll see you again then, Kitty.”

She waved good bye and watched as he walked towards the bank. Kitty immediately let out a breath she had not realized she was holding. Talk about unexpected. This morning when she had woken up, this was the last thing Kitty had expected to happen in town. But it was a most enjoyable surprise.

The sun was warming her through and through. She soaked in the rays and closed her eyes. How could life possibly get any better?

A cold shoulder bumped into hers and her eyes snapped open. The man just breezed past her with no apology what so ever. Kitty straightened her shoulders. Most women would keep quiet, but like her father always said; she was not like most women.

“Excuse you, Sir.” Kitty stated rather pointedly as she dusted off the bottom of her dress. When the gentleman – no just man, nothing about him looked gentle – turned around she had to stifle a gasp. It was the last person she had expected to see. He looked different - older - but she would have known him anywhere.

Logan Andrews took his hat off and held it to his chest in mock respect. His dark brown eyes were stormy and held a bit of amusement, and his brown hair was boyishly tousled on his head. “Please forgive me, Miss McKay. But I do believe you were in my way. You were dawdling as usual.”

Kitty’s jaw dropped slightly and she swallowed. There was no way she would let Logan get the best of her. Ever. “I had no idea you were back in town. How long has it been?” She knew very well when the last time he had been here. Right before he had quit school four years ago and ran off.

“Not long enough.” He muttered and placed his hat back on his head. He nodded in her direction and walked off leaving her in the dust of his dirty boots without so much as a dismissal.

Kitty could barely catch her breath. Two encounters in one morning. Both leaving her with very different feelings. Although she had to admit the brief and torrent encounter with her childhood schoolmate was not entirely unfortunate. For some reason, of which Kitty would never admit to anyone, it was good to see him well. The circumstances in which he had left would make anyone cringe.

“There you are!” A voice exclaimed joyfully behind her. It belonged to Amelia.

Kitty gave her friend a dazzling smile. “It took you long enough to get here!” She teased knowingly. She pushed all though of Logan Andrews out of her mind.

“Excuse us! We weren’t the ones riding a stallion,” Amelia laughed.

“Well,” Kitty continued, hooking her arm around her friends. “I must catch you up on the most intriguing encounter I just had.”

Amelia raised her eyebrows. Kitty had definitely gotten her attention. “Encounter you say?”

Kitty nodded her head vigorously as they walked slowly towards the shop. “I was walking along towards the post office, not really paying attention, when I practically ran into a man!”

“Who?!” Amelia gasped. “Please don’t tell me it was that snake, Jake Macaloy! Is he after you again? I swear that man does not take a hint! Maybe we will have to sneak and put a snake in his bed again.”

Kitty giggled at the memory and shook her head. Jake Macaloy inherited the town bank from his father, who died a few years back. He was well known as the richest man in town. And he had his eyes fixated on her. That was until she had made it very clear she did not return his affections when Kitty slipped a harmless water snake in his bed. Sure enough, he got the picture. “No! It has nothing to do with him. But it has everything to do with a Mr. Jackson Thomas.”

“Jackson Thomas?” Amelia repeated the name, a memory tugging her brain. “I read about him.”

“Where?”

Amelia sighed. Leave it to Kitty to miss the biggest news around town. “There was an article in the paper a few weeks ago. It was about a man coming all the way from New York. A government worker for the Department of Treasury. He was sent to improve the security in the banks around here, in light of all the shootings.”

Kitty slowed to a stop. “Surely it is not the same person. Mr. Thomas did not look much older than I.”

Amelia nodded her head. “He is only a year older than you and I.”

So that would explain the finely tailored suit and exquisite appearance. He worked for the government, and quite important work he was doing from the sound of it. Kitty smiled, the memory of his courteous disposition still fresh. “Mr. Jackson Thomas.”

“I remember in the article it said he was born in London, and then moved here with his folks.” Amelia continued, taking note of Kitty’s dreamy expression with interest. “Why, Miss McKay... are you smitten with Mr. Thomas?”

A light pink blush crept onto Kitty’s cheeks and she smiled secretively. They began to walk slowly again towards the dress shop. “Mia... I’ve only just met him.”

“You are smitten!” Amelia teased playfully. It was about time a man caught the fancy of the young McKay woman! “Oh Kitty this is wonderful! So, what did he look like? When are you going to see him again?”

Amelia launched a fury of other questions at her and Kitty shrugged her shoulders in defeat. “Mia! I have no idea even if I’ll see him again. If he works for the government he must be a very busy man who most likely does not have time to court a small town girl.”

Amelia glanced at her. She was no longer playful, but instead very solemn. “Why is it so hard for you to see that you’re more than just a small town girl, Kit? You are so much bigger than that. And if you ask me, this Mr. Thomas person would be lucky to court you.”

Kitty smiled warmly. Amelia was a true confidante. “Thank you.”

“You’re welcome,” Amelia smiled back, her mood turning utterly cheerful again. “So - what did Mr. Thomas look like?”

“He told me to call him Jack,” Kitty admitted. “And he was... perfect. His skin looked so light. And his eyes - they were as blue as the clearest lake.” She paused as they strolled along with side walk. All the thoughts that did not pertain to Jack completely fled her mind. “His hair is a light brown, and his smile is the most charming... with the whitest teeth I’ve ever seen.”

“Definitely not from here.” Amelia stated, making Kitty laugh. “You better stop describing him - even I’m starting to swoon.”

Kitty elbowed her in the side eliciting a surprised yelp from her friend. “You deserved that for teasing me so much!”

“Now come on, Kit. If I didn’t humble you, who would?” Amelia joked.

Kitty smiled, and thought back to her other encounter. Her smile faded almost instantly and she glanced around to see if he was anywhere near.

Mia of course noted this change in behavior. “What is it?”

Kitty sighed and pulled Mia down to sit on the bench in front of the general store. “I saw someone else this morning.”

Mia’s eyes lit up. “You are too lucky! Who else has graced your presence this fine morning?”

Kitty sighed and focused her gaze at the boards under her feet. “Logan Andrews.”

The name was like a gunshot out of a barrel. Only silence followed. Mia looked away and drew in a deep breath. “Now that is news.” When Kitty only nodded her head, Mia pressed on. “What business has he got here? Surely he ain’t seeing his Pa.”

Kitty shook her head. “I don’t know. We just sort of... bumped into each other and that was it.” She paused and half smiled. “He’s still got an attitude the size of Missouri though.”

Amelia shook her head and laughed. “Well he wouldn’t be Logan if he didn’t.”

They both stood up slowly and began walking towards the shop again. As they neared the corner, three loud gunshots rang out. This caused the girls to immediately freeze in surprise. Before they had a chance to move back against the side of the building, about a dozen horsed riders turned around the corner and passed by them.

The men were filthy, you could tell just by looking at them that they hadn’t bathed in weeks. Kitty was sure they were riding by extremely fast, but to her everything was in slow motion. The horse hooves hitting the ground echoed inside her ears and she noticed that one of them in the pack was staring at her. His eyes were black and lethal. He wore a scratchy short beard. She had seen his face before. It was Jimmy Rogue.

These men were outlaws. The dust flew into the air around them, and for a moment Kitty could have sworn she saw someone behind Jimmy. But as soon as the dust settled, they were long gone.

That is when Kitty realized Amelia had her arm in a vice-like grip. She turned to see Amelia’s face, still pale with shock. “Are you alright?”

Amelia shook her head. “That - That - That was–“

Kitty turned her head, the band of outlaws already almost out of sight. “The Rogue Riders.”

A flurry of panic filled the streets as people began running out the buildings to see what happened. Amelia finally caught her breath and tugged on Kitty’s arm. “They probably hit the bank; let’s go to the shop to see your parents. I bet your mother is worried sick!”

Kitty nodded her head in agreement and they rounded the corner to face the main street of Platte Falls. What they saw there was devastating. There were three people lying on the ground - pools of red blood swirling around them. Kitty’s heart stopped when she saw her father’s wagon settled in front of the bank.

She did not remember letting go of Amelia to run across and into the street. She did not remember falling when her knees gave out. But she did remember the faces... the horribly still faces of the dead that she looked upon. The faces that only a few short minutes ago were full of life and happiness - but were now empty and lifeless.

She would forever remember the face of her parents.