Busted Gulch vol. 15

The One That Got Away - Ruechari

Billy set up a place to interview the woman gathered by Buck. 

He'd get through them today with any luck.

It surprised him there were only two or three 

women Jake 'visited' from Tent City. 

Still, out of jealousy, any of them could have committed this crime.

As he interviewed them, he took his time. 

He was surprised to learn Jake treated them well.

A couple of them in love with him fell.

But none of them held Jake any ill will

They defended him, but still...

And then there she was standing before him looking annoyed.

This was the one interview Billy wished he could avoid.

"Rue, have a seat."  She chose to stand.

Why she had to be so damn stubborn he'd never understand.

"Do you seriously believe I'd kill Mary Sue

Over Jake? After all we've been through?"

Billy thought he'd be the one asking the questions here.

Rue turned the tables.

"No, but I don't doubt you'd interfere."

"If I promise to leave your investigation alone

Then my actions you'll condone?"

Billy stood up and with her, came face to face

"Just stay away from him, Rue. Jake's trouble.  Please, just in case.

I don't want you dragged into the middle of this."

He knew by her look of determination his warning she dismissed.

"What is it about this guy? Rue, tell me why...?"

"Because I care, He's been through so much.

I can see into his heart. These women, the drink are just a crutch.

He'd never do anything to jeopardize leaving Josie alone.

All he really wants is to bring his family home."

"He broke your heart. Don't say it isn't true.

You love him still? Don't you, Rue?"

"I do. Just like I love you."

The last thing Billy wanted was to be compared to Jake

To be loved by Rue for pity's sake.

His love for her was still strong

Yet he knew it was all wrong.

Around her, he had lost control

And if he weren't careful it be his soul.

His love for her almost got her killed.

A fate he feared Jake would fullfill.

Still, he grasped Rue's arms in his hands

He had to make her understand.

"You're too important. Jake is reckless.

Can't you see?  What happened to Mary Sue...

It could have been you, Ruechari?"

"He's innocent."

She too strong-willed.

"I'll do what I can to clear his name but Rue you have to back off this flame.

If you don't you will get burned. If nothing else, 

this lesson from me you should have learned."

Rue touched his face. She kissed his cheek.

"About me, You need not be, at all concerned."

Billy knew there would be no getting through to Rue.

He'd talk to Jasper and Jujube to keep a close watch over Ruechari.

He checked in with Buck. "Is that all we have to see

What about that woman, Jake's fiancé - Sallie?"

Buck on that point had nothing to tell.

So, Billy would head on back to the hotel.

Guess he'll find her soon enough.

Proving Jake's innocence will be tough.