Bedtime

- Dalen Woodland, Morning of 2 DSTR –

“I am used to it; I just do not care for it.” Kline told him in response. The bigger man gave Lafayette an appraising look from head to toe.

When the laughter came, and the rejection, Kline just shrugged. “You were the one to bring up my business. If you had nothing constructive to say or to add, then you need not bring it up.” He pointed it out.

Kline went silent, letting the night seep in. He had pulled watch many nights, many times. He knew the sounds of others and the sounds the woods would make naturally. Experience had trained him and he kept watch for about half the night. He did not expect the young man across from him, because he seemed to act in such a boyish manner Kline saw him as a youth, to take a watch.

When his watch was done he stood, almost without a sound, and went to the tent to wake Kalena. He kicked the bottom of her foot, knowing better then to roust her any other way. “Half the night is done.” He told her in a lowered voice. “You are welcome to the other half. We should wake when we have first light, and get back to the wagons before sunrise.”

He found a place in the spacious tent to rest, a bedroll that was mostly clean and fit. “The kid is a piece of work.” He says as he nestles in. “He thinks we are married.”