Unexpected (33 page)

The marshal contemplated Cogan’s words for a moment before he finally nodded.
“All right.  So you say the man run off?” the marshal continued as if he heard nothing Cogan said.

“
I suppose I did,” Cogan said grinning.

He smiled again. “Well my friend, I suppose if I disagree with you, you’ll die fighting protecting your family, such as the legend
of the werewolf.  Then there is the oath of the Knight Templar.  Also, looking at you now, makes me know that there’s no way in hell I’ll have a chance, so I’ll take your word for it.” He held out his hand again, and Cogan shook it. “I’ll be back through in about a month.  I’ll look forward to your offer of dinner.”

“We’ll see you then,” Ryker offered genuinely.
“The house should be done.  We’ll keep you a clean bed too.”

The both watched him leave.

“Can you trust him?”

Cogan nodded. “He meant what he said.
We wouldn’t betray one another.”

“Good, now back to work. Daylight’s wasting.
  Your wife wants her house.”

Cogan laughed.  He was sure everyone did
too. The Russells have been patient and wonderful, but it was cramped.  So much that Cogan rented a hotel room in town so he could be alone with Josie.  Every day he came back to the ranch and helped with the house. They had to expand it somewhat to make room for all of them. Cogan liked the thought of having a family again.   What he even loved more was becoming a father.  They hadn’t told the rest of the family yet, until Josephine was certain.  He was though.  If it was possible she could be more beautiful, she was.  Only time will tell though, if she could continue his line.  He already knew the answer to that.  If there was a woman who could give him a son, it would be her.  She was strong with an invincible will for life and righteousness.  Yes, she would give him a son.  He smiled to himself.  He had finally found something to fight for.  His eyes went to Thomas and Ryker.  He finally had a reason to love life again.

~The End~