OUTLAW

Chapter 10

"Okay. I don't think it's a good idea to ride in as a group. It might draw too much attention." Tim says as he climbs onto Ringo. "Rob, you can ride on ahead and check things out."

"Right outside the sheriff's office is a board with all the wanted posters on them." Sam says.

"Okay, that will be my first stop." Rob nods.

"If the coast is clear, you stay. If not, ride out immediately." Tim says.

"Got it." Rob replies with a nod.

"The rest of us will wait outside of town. Nate? Don't you have some binoculars?" Tim asks, turning to the blonde scout.

"Yep." Nate answers as he reaches into his saddlebag and pulls out the binoculars. "It's a necessity for scouts."

"Okay, good. Rob can give us some sort of sign that it's safe to come in." Tim says.

"He can step out so he knows we can see him and take his glasses off to clean them." Adam suggests.

"That's perfect, Babe." Tim smiles at the blonde.

"Y'all, please, just stay out of trouble but have fun." Lilly says with a smile.

"Yes, Mam." Tim smiles and tips his hat to the lady.

"You boys stay safe." Sam says as his eyes meet those of the outlaw. "And hurry home."

A lump rises in Tim's throat as he studies the weathered face of the old cowboy. Besides his gang, he had never been shown this kind of affection. Not even from his own parents. This elderly couple really does care for him and the boys.

"We will." Tim says, hoping that the old man didn't notice the quiver in his voice. "We'll be home soon."

The old man smiles and pats Tim on the leg.

"Let's go guys." Tim says.

"YEEHAWWW!!!" Austin yells. "PARTY TIME, Y'ALL!!!" 

~~

Tim, Adam, Austin and Chance stand under a shade tree and watch as Nate climbs higher onto the high rocks to get a better view of the town below. Tim had already divided the money that Sam had given them equally between each gang member. For a few days, they could actually live like kings. 

"So what's the first thing you gonna do when you get to town?" Chance asks as he wipes the sweat from his forehead.

"My first stop will definitely be the saloon." Tim smiles as he licks his dry lips.

"I'm finding the prettiest girl in town to spend some quality time with." Austin chuckles.

"Just make sure that girl's father doesn't catch you this time." Tim says with a smirk.

"Naw, this will be one that is paid to put out." Austin laughs.

"I'm going to find me a hot poker game." Adam smiles as he leans back against the tree.

"Do you think it's best that we act like we don't know each other?" Chance asks.

"I was thinking that. We'll just have to wait and see." Tim nods. "Of course, Adam and I will ride in together. The rest is totally up to you guys. It would probably be safe for you three to ride in together if you want."

"I SEE HIM!" Nate calls down from the rocks. "I GUESS HE'S LOOKING AT THE WANTED POSTERS!"

"JUST KEEP AN EYE ON HIM! WATCH FOR HIS SIGNAL!" Tim calls up to the scout.