Longmire: Second Chances

Chapter 9: Re-Acquaintance

It was a Tuesday evening, so The Red Pony was mildly quiet this night. The place always had a good gathering, but a Tuesday was not like a Friday or Saturday evening, with wall-to-wall people. Henry worked as hard on a slower night as he did on the insane nights. He loved what he did, and he loved making his guests happy.

He was behind the bar when the door swung open. He saw his Goddaughter, and his face began to light up. And right behind her was a sorely-missed, very familiar female face, and his eyes lit up like a Christmas tree. He didn't just walk around the bar, he trotted out and swept Vic up in a huge hug.

"Victoria Moretti!", he said happily, as he his own tears fell, Vic crying once again, "I have missed you so much, my dear lady. Welcome back to The Red Pony and Continual Soiree!"

Vic didn't want to let go of her dear friend, but laughed loudly, finally looking at him. "Oh God, Henry, pardon my language, but I've fucking missed this place!"

Henry almost doubled over in laughter, then hugged Vic again. "No finer words have ever reached my ear, Vic." He winked at her, and Vic kissed him on the cheek. "You look more beautiful than ever, Victoria. Welcome back."

Vic smiled happily. "Thank you Mr. Standing Bear. I should tell you as much as I've missed The Pony, I've missed you more", and they hugged one more time. Henry kept his arm around Vic and he escorted the two ladies to a table. He looked over at the bartender who nodded, indicating it was cool if Henry stayed with his friends for a time.

When they sat down, Henry grabbed Vic's hand, still twinkling at her. "I have so missed your beautiful countenance in my establishment. It is is wonderful seeing you again."

Vic put her second hand on top of Henry's. "It's good to see you, my dear sweet friend." Vic's smiled left her face for a few moment. "I'm so sorry I left without saying goodbye, Henry", and once more, her guilt about the past rose in her eyes.

"It is forgiven, Victoria", Henry said gently. "I am sure all your friends have told you that already. Yes, we were all hurt when you left suddenly, but we never stopped missing you-and we never stopped loving you." The gentleness in his face made Vic's heart skip a beat.

"I'm beginning to understand that, Henry. But I still have a lot to make up for. To you, Cady, all my friends, to Travis and Walt."

Henry's eyes went hollow for a moment, and he tried to hold his emotions in check. "Vic, I am so very, very sorry that you lost the baby. I was sorry for both you and Travis, I want you to know. I have said a prayer every night for the both of you, and for the child you lost. I wish I had more."

Vic controlled the tears this time. "You're so sweet, Henry, thank you very much for the sentiment. I talked to Travis today, and it was heart-wrenching for both of us, but I think he and I will patch things up and remain friends."

"That is my wish, Vic", the Indian said with conviction. "It is also my wish that you and Walter can do the same thing. That road may end up being more of a challenge, but I am glad you are here and willing to try."

Vic nodded her head. "I am, Henry", she said honestly. "I have to try. I'm finding my stride in life again, but until I heal the wounds that tore me away from here, I can't be fully myself again."

"Do not rush yourself, Vic", he said earnestly. "The pain did not develop overnight when you left, and it will not be erased overnight. But stay true to yourself, and I have no doubt that when all is said and done, you will be whole again."

Vic was always amazed at the special wisdom of this good man. "With your help Henry, I believe I can get there."

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