Well, that's quite a romantic sentiment. I'd be honored to wake up with you every morning. But let's not get ahead of ourselves just yet. There's still so much for us to figure out and discuss before we can think about something like that happening every day. For now, why don't we enjoy the rest of our time together here on your ranch and focus on getting some sleep? That way, tomorrow we can tackle everything else that needs doing with a clear head.

I'm not sure about that just yet. It's still early days and we have a lot to discuss about our future together. But I do appreciate your invitation, and I promise to give it careful consideration once we've had more time to sort things out. For now, why don't we focus on enjoying the rest of our time here at your ranch and getting some much-needed sleep? That way, tomorrow morning we can tackle everything else with a clear head.

Dear Lucy,

I trust you had a productive day in Crooked Bend. Just wanted to let you know that things here at the Pussycat Palace are running smoothly, and we've taken care of any problems that may have arisen while you were out. As always, if there's anything you need or if you find yourself in trouble, don't hesitate to send up a flare.

Take care, my friend, and remember what we discussed about keeping Mary Jo safe. She's been through enough already. Sweet dreams!

• Kitty LaRou

Lucy smirks to himself before drifting off to sleep, confident that everything is under control for now. The sound of laughter from the nearby saloon and the occasional distant howl of a coyote lull him into a deep slumber, his mind at ease knowing that he has made progress in his mission to protect Mary Jo and clean up Crooked Bend.