The Marshal's Mission. Anna Zogg

my earlier offer still stands. Feel free to stay as long as you like.”

      Head tilted, he seemed to contemplate her words. “I’d be pleased to accept, Lenora. As long as you don’t mind my doing some chores in exchange.” He turned, but stopped and again faced her. “I’ll be back after I wash up.”

      He disappeared into the dusk. Heavy boots tromped across the porch and down the steps. She pressed cool hands against her cheeks. When Toby burst into the room once more, she swiveled so he wouldn’t see her face.

      He began setting the table. For three.

      “Come up with a name for the calf yet?” She strove to keep her tone light.

      “I was thinking Coal. On account of her having no white markings at all.”

      Pondering how to voice her concern, Lenora chewed her lip. “Shouldn’t you check with Cole first? He might not like having a calf named after him.”

      “Already did.” Toby smiled up in her eyes. “He laughed, Ma. Told me it was a grand name.”

      Lenora smoothed her son’s hair. “Then I guess it’s settled. Coal is perfect.”

      Long after their guest continued on his way to his destination, they would have something by which to remember him.

      Then the thought of Cole’s leaving struck her. It would be hard to see him go. And not just because he was useful around the ranch.

      Then she shook herself. In a few short months she planned to leave Wyoming Territory. What about Cole? He seemed to be traveling west. Perhaps she needed to consider going that direction too.