Disclaimers: These characters and this story originated in the deep dark recesses of my mind, and thus belong to no one but me. Copyright © 2002 by Blayne Cooper (Advocate).All Rights Reserved. Certain recognizable locations, events, and/or organizations were used to lend a sense of authenticity to the story and not intended to depict reality. Others are wholly fictional.

Sexual Content/Violence/Language:This is alternative fiction involving a romantic/sexual relationship between two adult women. It is intended for mature audiences only.If you're under 18, please move along. contains scenes moderate, though vividly described violence and some profanity.

Emotional Distress: This story is little different from what you might be expecting if you've read my other writings. It's a bit darker, a bit more serious, and in places, downright angsty.If you can hang in there through the tough parts, there is a light at the end of the tunnel.I promise.

Acknowledgements: Ali, Barbara, Judith, and Nancy-your beta reading assistance was invaluable. To my pals reading on the side-your feedback helped make this a better story.Thank you Cindy Brown, M.D. for your expert medical advice.Any inaccuracies on the medical front are a reflection of my use of artistic license rather than her expertise. A special thanks goes out to T. Novan for her research assistance on several matters. Finally, Bob helped me in so many ways I won't even try to list them all.Instead, I'll just say thank you and I love you.

Author's note: Most of the information concerning the facilities on Blackwell's Island is attributable to the below source.In the name of artistic license some liberties were taken.Follow the link below for more information on Blackwell's Island and the institutions housed there.

The Last Train Home
by
Blayne Cooper (Advocate)

Chapter One

It began to snow, tiny flakes shimmering in the lamplight until they collided with Virginia's worn, woolen scarf and stuck, creating a thin layer of silvery crystals on the black fabric.The scarf covered her head and she absently reached up to make certain its ends were tucked securely into her coat.She left her hand there as she walked, holding together the scratchy, woolen lapels of the coat with chilled fingers.

At the corner of Essex and Delancey streets she stopped at the curb to allowed a slow-moving wagon to pass in front her.

"Whoa." The husky driver reined the single brown nag that was pulling his wagon. The back of the wagon was full of beer barrels. "Needing a ride, miss?"He stripped off his small, round hat and squinted as he looked into the night's sky, irritated when small flakes dotted the lenses of his spectacles."Winter is finally here on this New Year's Eve," he pronounced, stuffing his hat back atop a mass of unruly dark hair and wiping his glasses.

Virginia smiled and shook her head.Six months ago she wouldn't have understood a word he'd said.Then, the varied accents of Manhattan's Lower East Side immigrants had caused her to blink stupidly at nearly anyone who spoke to her.On this night, however, she understood the man perfectly and thanked him for his kind offer before continuing her trek to Orchard Street and home, which consisted of a tiny apartment on the sixth floor of a brown brick tenement house.

A laughing couple staggered past her shouting their wishes for a happy New Year and addressing her by name.She dredged up another smile and waved her goodbyes as she continued to walk, her mind occupied more with getting off her aching feet than imbibing along with the rest of New York.

She had worked late tonight, stripping the feathers from stinking chicken carcasses along with two dozen other men, women, and children, all for the promise of an extra dollar in her $4.00 a week paycheck.Despite the holiday, it was an offer Virginia Chisholm could ill afford to refuse.

Passing through a cloud of foul-smelling steam rising from the sewer vent, she opened the door to her building and was instantly greeted by several more partying tenants.She lowered her scarf and shook it out, sending a scattering of icy crystals to the wooden floor and revealing a head of red hair with golden highlights, now in full disarray.

A pock-faced man poked his head out of his apartment door, and Virginia could hear the jaunty chords of an out-of-tune piano and a burst of laughter from behind him. "Evening, Ginny!" he slurred.

"Happy New Year, Mr. Belawitz," she dutifully answered, secretly hoping that he wouldn't want to chat.But he quickly ducked back inside his apartment, much to Ginny's relief.

A chorus of"Happy New Year, Ginny!" rang out through the narrow hallway as Ginny climbed the steep steps.She laughed, happy to see her usually grumpy neighbors enjoying the season.

It was already past ten and her family's apartment was dark and quiet, except for a single candle that sat on a small table near the stove, illuminating the weary faces of Ginny's mother and sister. She sat down alongside her mother with a weary thump.

Ginny's older sister, Alice, rose to hang up Ginny's wet coat, and her mother reached over to the stove for a pot that still held hot tea.

"I was beginning to get worried, child."She hated it when Ginny walked the ten blocks from her work to home in the dark alone.

Ginny tucked chilled, red fingers under her arms for warmth. "I'm sorry, mama, I had to work late."Then she smiled, remembering why she'd missed supper."There's an extra dollar in my pocket this week because of it."

"No need."Her mother waved her off, filling a chipped cup with steaming tea and sending the scent of mint wafting between them."You can give it to me tomorrow when I go to the market. It'll be nice to have some meat for dinner." She looked gratefully at both her daughters and rose to her feet.As she stood, she brushed her lips against the top of her Ginny's cold head."Happy New Year, babies.I hope it's the best one ever," she said softly."For both of you."

"Same to you, Mama," the young women answered in concert, as their mother disappeared into one of the apartment's two small bedrooms.They smiled at the sound of their stepfather's deep snores, which disappeared when their mother closed the bedroom door.

When the apartment was silent once again, Alice scooted her chair next to her sister's and they began to chatter quietly about the day's events. Before long Ginny's eyelids were drooping and Alice chuckled.Ginny was too tired.They were all too tired.Her sister's heart-shaped face had begun to take on the lines and planes of adulthood, though in fairness the skin around her eyes had always crinkled when she smiled, belying her true age.Right now, however, those same eyes were fluttering closed at irregular intervals as Ginny fought uselessly against an overwhelming wave of fatigue.

"C'mon, luscious," Alice teased."Let me help you into bed." She pushed off from the table, then carefully set Ginny's empty cup in a wash basin.

"Hush," Ginny shot back testily, more than a little sensitive about her curvaceous figure. She was average height, but only in the past year, since she'd turned 17, had her hips widened and her breasts taken on a full roundness not shared by either her mother or older sibling.

"Oh, all right," Alice laughed, guiding her bone-weary sister towards their darkened room.Once inside they both carefully checked to make certain the blankets were tightly tucked around their young twin brothers, James and Lewis. Next they checked on the baby, Helen, and 3-year-old Jane, who both slept in a crib at the foot of the girls' bed. Satisfied that everyone was warm, Alice climbed into bed.

Ginny stripped down to her underclothes and as quickly as she could snuggled under the covers of the twin bed she shared with her sister. Her contented sigh at the wonderful feeling of their shared body heat was lost amidst the loud creaking of the bedsprings.

"This is the year, Alice," Ginny whispered fervently after a long moment.She pulled the quilt up to her chin."1889 was the last year I'm spending in this place.I know Mama needs our help, but-"

"Me too, Ginny." A pause."John from the fish market came calling for me earlier tonight."

Ginny could hear the smile in her sister's voice."About time.You two have been mooning over each other for months. And sparking for almost that long," she added mischievously," knowing that Alice wasn't aware she'd inadvertently caught them kissing more than once.She squirmed out of the way of pinching fingers, causing Lewis to stir in the bed only two feet away.

"Sorry."But she wasn't really.She'd been waiting weeks for the perfect opportunity to torture Alice about that.

"Now, about tonight," Alice continued undaunted, "Arthur told him to come back next week after his visit had been properly announced."

Unseen in the darkness both sisters rolled their eyes at their stepfather's old-fashioned notions.

"But John said he'd be back.He wants to move out West next summer, you know. His uncle owns a farm in Tennessee."

"Oh, Al," Ginny's voice was soft and wistful.She'd seen photographs of rolling hills and imagined miles and miles of fresh, green grass."That's wonderful." She squeezed her sister's hand, trying to ignore the pang in her chest that the news brought.She would miss her fiercely, but refused to begrudge Alice an opportunity for a better life.After all, she intended on having one herself.There has to be more than this place.Endless work.The stink. The crime.There just has to.

"He has a brother, Ginny. If you can get past those mutton chops and that long mustache he's not such a bad looking fellow."

Ginny snorted. "No thanks."She absently glanced out the window, her eyes following the constant stream of glittering snow."I'll get out of here without having to resort to him, thank you very much."

And for a moment Alice believed her willful younger sister.If anyone could do it, it was Ginny.

Then only the muffled sounds of snoring filled the tiny apartment on Orchard Street.

"So long, String Bean."With a single shove between the narrow shoulder blades, Lindsay Killian went flying out of the slow moving boxcar and into the night.She hit the ground, cursing as she slid down an embankment made up of rocks and chunks of coal covered by a thin layer of snow. She winced as she felt her trousers and then the skin of her knees and hands tear.It was eerily silent out, except for the fading chugging of the freight train.

"Bastard," she spat, seeing her hat fly out of the boxcar, which was already several hundred feet down the track in front of her.She could swear she could still hear his self-satisfied laughter. It was, in Lindsay's mind, the ultimate humiliation."Rolled by someone I know." She snorted derisively."What next?My own father coming back from the grave to slap me in the face?"

With a shake of the head, she pushed wearily to her knees and wobbled there for several seconds before falling bonelessly backwards. She sighed, sending a puff of steam into the cold air, and gazed up into the sky, its blackness overtaken by the muted glow of lights and smoke from the nearby city. Snowflakes rained down on her and she wished briefly that she could see the stars instead of the endless sea of dingy gray-gold above.Like New York City, the stars made her feel small and insignificant-dwarfed.But unlike this place, they also made Lindsay feel freeÉ as if the universe was stretched out invitingly before her and anything was possible.

With another dramatic sigh she rolled over onto her side and paused a moment to remove a small rock that had embedded itself in her hand.She winced and rose to her feet, brushing off her shabby coat.Despite her sudden fit of melancholy and her outright embarrassment over being robbed of her flint, pocketknife, and life savings, which consisted of a total of .87¢, she decided that she could do better than freezing to death in the ditch.The City might be a cesspool but there were plenty of pockets to pick, charity shelters that offered hot, if watery, soup, and places where she could go and warm her hands by the fire.

Her eyes narrowed.After she found some food, she would head down to Rat Face's favorite railway station and reclaim her stolen property along with her pride.Lindsay's booted feet made a crunching noise as she walked.

"String Bean, my dear," she muttered to herself, as she bent to retrieve her battered hat, "How about a different resolution this new year?Instead of getting rich, why not settle on keeping better company?"She tucked her shoulder-length hair deep into her coat and out of sight.Yeah.She nodded a little, satisfied with her decision.Better company, it is.

She climbed back up the embankment."But that better company's gonna have to come after I find Rat Face and KICK HIS ASS."

Feeling much better, she tucked her hands into her sleeves and whistled a happy tune as she began a solitary walk down the wooden tracks and towards New York City.

The words tugged at the edge of her consciousness.But they weren't enough to completely rouse her.

She felt a small hand shaking her shoulder."What is it, Lewis?" she mumbled, keeping her eyes firmly closed.I just lay down.Tell me it's not time to wake up yet.

This time her brother's high-pitched voice was filled with panic, and her eyes fluttered open to find their room filled withÉ she blinkedÉ smoke?

"Oh, my God."Alice sat up and pushed her hair from her face."Oh, God. Oh, God. Something's burning," she said needlessly."There's a fire."

Ginny threw off their covers and scrambled out of bed, not noticing that the floor beneath her bare feet was unusually warm."I'll get Mama."She looked at Alice for confirmation, pushing down a wave of fear and dread.

"Go!I'll get the kids dressed."Alice was already hastily wiggling on Lewis' shoes.

Ginny nodded quickly and covered her mouth with her hand.Now that she was on her feet, the acrid smell and taste made the back of her throat burn and her head was well into the hazy layer of smoke that covered the top half of the room."I'll be right back to help, Alice."She spared a glance into the crib, then stopped dead in her tracks. "Helen?" Her eyes darted around wildly."Helen?"Ginny's normally rich voice cracked on the last word as she looked at Jane, who was alone in the crib.

The sound of wagons, nervous horses, and raised, panicky voices floated up from the street below.

Alice grabbed Lewis' coat from the closet and began to wake James, who was still oblivious in his peaceful sleep."Mama took Helen out of the crib about an hour ago.She never brought her back."She didn't have to look up to know that Ginny hadn't moved." Hurry, Ginny. Go!"

Ginny snapped out of her shock and jerked open their bedroom door.For the first time in her life she ran into her parents' room without knocking."Mama!Arthur, wake up.There's a fire."

"What?Oh, no."Her mother shot up out of bed, her eyes wide with disbelief, all traces of sleep gone in an instant.She had Helen in her arms and awkwardly shifted her nightgown so that her breast would no longer be exposed.

The baby let out a loud unhappy shriek as her comforting suckling was abruptly ended.

Arthur Robson, Ginny's stepfather, lay stock-still except for the even rise and fall of his chest.Ginny shook his shoulder vigorously but he only slapped her hand away and mumbled something unintelligible.

She turned questioning eyes on her mother, who was rummaging through her dresser for something more suitable than a nightgown and trying to calm Helen's cries. "What's wrong with him, Mama?"

"He drank too much celebrating the New Year is all.He'll be fine.IÉ I can wake him.Go help your sister with the other children."She fanned her hand in front of her in a useless attempt to clear away the smoke. "You need to get out now, Ginny, all of you." She stifled a cough."Put on your shoes and coat."The older woman wrapped a blanket around Helen and sat her back on the bed as she dressed."We'll meet you in front of the building."

The older woman suddenly stopped talking and cocked her head towards the window.Short, quick steps took her across the small room and she grunted as she threw open the window.A blast of cold air and the sound of distant screams filled the room.Despite the January air, sweat began to bead on Mrs. Robson's upper lip.Peering out, she could see flames shooting out of the window from the apartment directly below theirs and a gathering of men, women, children and fire brigade on the street below."Sweet Jesus."Wild brown eyes snapped sideways, pinning Ginny, but she spoke with remarkable calmness."Go and don't stop, Ginny.Get your brothers and sisters and run."

Ginny hesitated for only a second, but seeing that Arthur was beginning to wake up on his own she reluctantly made her way back to her room.The entire apartment was filled with smoke now, and the short distance between the two doors somehow seemed longer in the pungent haze."Ouch."She stubbed her toe on the edge of small table.

Lewis and James were standing nervously at the door in their nightshirts, coats, hats, and shoes.Both 8-year-old boys wrapped themselves around Ginny as soon as she entered the room.

"Awww, it's gonna be okay, boys."But the smoke was making it hard to see and harder to breathe."You'll see."She cupped both their chins and gently lifted."Are you ready?"

Alice was busy wrapping a blanket around Jane with one hand while she buttoned her coat with the other.She glanced up at Ginny and their eyes locked.

Ginny swallowed hard and her heart began to pound, realizing for the first time that this was more than a dangerous situation.It was deadly.

Alice opened her mouth to speak but could only cough."WhereÉ" she finally choked out, shaking her head as if to clear her throat."Where are they?"Smoke filled the entire room now and boys began to gasp and cough as well.

Ginny spoke without taking a breath so she could get the words out all at once. "They're not ready, Al.Arthur drank too much.Mama's trying to get him up."She squeezed her watery, stinging eyes shut as the room began to blur.

Alice nodded and handed Jane to Ginny, who instantly wrapped the squirming toddler in a comforting embrace.Another second and Alice was on her knees fitting Ginny's feet into her shoes."Get them outÉ" A cough."É of here."She began to cough again and this time she couldn't stop for several long seconds.

When Ginny's shoes were securely in place, Alice grasped her sister's biceps and pulled Ginny and Jane tightly against her in a hug to so tight it was painful.She pressed her lips directly to Ginny's ear."Mama can't get Arthur and the baby alone.I'll help."She extended her arms and held her sister's gaze once again."Never leave them, Ginny. They need you.Promise?"

"PrÉ Promise."Ginny drew in an uneven breath and her eyes filled with tears of a different kind.

"ShhÉ" Alice quickly but gently wiped her cheeks, knowing her own were just as wet. "I'll meet you outside, luscious. Go," she whispered a split second before bolting towards her parents' room, drawing her fingers lightly across the top of her brothers' heads on her way out.

Ginny didn't bother sniffing or wiping her eyes.She let the tears come, allowing them to momentarily clear her vision and burn a path down her already flushed cheeks.Then she reached down and took one of James' small hands, instructing him to hold onto Lewis'."Let's go."

Several blind paces later and they were at the apartment's front door, where Ginny awkwardly shrugged into her charcoal gray, woolen coat.She repositioned Jane against her shoulder and reached for the knob, only to yank her hand back and scream when her skin stuck to the searing metal.She stumbled backwards, only just maintaining her hold on her sister.

Lewis began to cry in earnest and James abandoned his normal approach of telling his brother he was acting like a sissy when he wanted him to be brave.Instead he remained mute, glancing around the room with round frightened eyes.

Ginny's mind raced.If the metal was that hot, surely the fire was in the hallway.The window?No.They were on the sixth floor.She drew in a ragged breath.They had no choice."Hold on, Jane."She screwed blue eyes tightly shut and kicked the door.

On the third kick, much to Ginny's surprise, the rickety door flew open and a wave of hot air slammed against them all, forcing them to take a step backwards and gasp in shock.Momentarily the smoke seemed to clear and Ginny could see that flames had engulfed the apartments farthest from the stairs.The fire was working its way towards the other end of the hall, its deadly tendrils already licking at her apartment door.She glanced over her shoulder, desperately hoping to see the rest of her family.But the view was once again obscured by smoke.

"Run!" Gripping Lewis' sweaty hand, she ignored the pain in her own as they burst through the flames that shot across their doorway.They began a dead run down the narrow hallway.Ginny tried to call out to her neighbors, on the chance that they were still sleeping unaware in their beds, but most of her yells were swallowed up by the coughing she could no longer hold at bay, and the roar of the fire, which seemed to grow with every passing second.

Screams and the sound of breaking wood and glass echoed up from the floors below her and several of the apartments around her, the sound nearly enough to drive all rational thought from her mind.The flames painted eerie, hateful shadows on the walls around them as they stepped over several pieces of smoldering paneling that had peeled away due to the blazing heat.

Just as they were about to reach the stairs, Mr. Gelfand, the tenant from the apartment directly behind them, burst out of his front door and ran past them in his bare feet.Smoke was coming from the tails of his nightshirt, but he didn't seem to notice them as he barreled over James on his way to down the steps.

At the top step, Ginny looked back at their apartment door, which was nothing more than a blossoming ball of red-and-gold flames. I can't leave them! her mind screamed, even though she knew she had to get her brothers and Jane out of the building. She screwed her eyes tightly shut and added to the chaos by screaming, "Damn!"It was the first time in her life she'd sworn and James looked up at her from his position on the floor in shock.

"GetÉ" A coughing fit interrupted her."Get up, James!" Ginny cried, frustrated that she didn't have a free hand to yank him up with."Go!Run!"She gestured down the stairs with her chin, deciding at the last second to let go Lewis' hand and go back for the rest of her family.She had to.She couldn't leave them.The boys could run like the wind.They'd be fine.Unconsciously, she tightened her grip on Jane, who had stopped crying and was now burrowed against Ginny's shoulder, her head tucked under the blanket she was wrapped in.

Responding to his sister's urgent command, James flew down the steps, his arms pumping wildly, his little legs a blur as he ran.

Ginny froze and the silence between them stretched out for what seemed like an eternity, though it was no more than a handful of seconds. Her heart in her throat, she nodded, and they began making their way down the stairs.The steps creaked under her weight and she watched in amazement as several stairs near the bottom buckled from heat or pressure.She didn't know which.But she could feel the heat radiating from them, seeping through the soles of her worn shoes.

Behind her there was more crashing and screaming and she ruthlessly ignored it, telling herself that it couldn't be her family.

Jagged flames shot up the walls and streaked across the ceiling, the blazing heat making every breath painful, the stench of burning wood and paper and hair making her nose wrinkle.Ginny reached up with her scalded hand to adjust Jane's blanket and when she pulled it away dark splotches of crimson in the broken shape of a hand stained the cloth.

"Take offÉ" Ginny swallowed painfully."Take of your hats and pressÉ press them against- Like this."She snatched off James' hat and pressed it to his face, forcing him to breathe through it.Lewis immediately mimicked his brother's actions.

Behind her, the wallpaper on both sides of the staircase had caught fire, making the staircase to the sixth floor a tunnel of flames.

Ginny looked back again and squinted.There wasÉ somethingÉ someone at the top of the stairs.She could only just make out the outline of a woman with something in her arms.The woman took one step then retreated.Oh, god, is she on fire?"Alice?Ma...Mama!" she screamed desperately. But there was no answer to her cries and the figure moved away from the steps at the precise second a loud boom shook the entire building.

Ginny wasn't sure she could take another step without throwing up, but she moved anyway, turning to the top of the fifth floor staircase.They traveled faster now, blindly through the smoke, kicking debris from their path.There was no turning back now. And there was no one on the way down the steps behind them.

The wall to the left of her was on fire and she turned away from the flames as she moved, feeling a painfully stinging on the back of her neck.Then, with a sudden poof, James' coat caught fire and he began to scream, breaking into a run down the steps.

Lewis took off after his brother, tackling him a few steps from the bottom of the third floor landing.They landed in a tangled heap of arms and legs, and Ginny took several steps at a time through the thick smoke until she caught sight of James' feet.She grabbed Lewis by the collar and pushed Jane into his arms."Take her!"

The toddler was far too heavy for him and the girl's dangling legs reached well past his knees.He nearly crumbled under her weight but fought valiantly to stay upright, bracing his back against the stair railing until he thought his spine would snap.

Ginny dropped to her knees and roughly yanked James' burning coat from his body as he screamed, trying to roll away from her.She felt the skin of both hands searing and she bared her teeth as she fought with her panicked brother. "Stay still.Stop it!I have toÉ Ugh!"The old coat ripped at the seams and the scratchy material stuck to her palm and fingers like glue.In a frenzy, she ripped it from her damaged skin.

Her hands felt like they were on fire and she had to look at them for a second to assure herself that they weren't.The skin was angry and blistered raw, but James was all right.The fire hadn't burned through to his skin.

The young woman stumbled to her feet and took Jane from Lewis, just before the slender boy buckled.

"We're almost down, boys."Perspiration streaked her face and neck and she could feel it trickling down her spine and between her breasts."C'mon."

Lewis helped James to his feet, tears carving narrow trails down their soot-covered faces as they moved in front of their sister.

The smoke on the second floor wasn't nearly as thick as on the other floors and Ginny drew in a deep breath, still gagging when her lungs rejected the foul air. Whereas the rest of the building appeared deserted, this floor was a study in chaos.Members of the fire brigade were breaking in doors as they searched for tenants.It was a cacophony of babies crying and screams of panic and pain and anguish.People in all states of dress, speaking several languages, were running through the hall as their lives and futures went up in flames.

"Help!" Ginny coughed weakly."We need help here." Her voice had dropped to a whisper, but a man standing nearby began moving towards her.He was wearing a uniform."People are upstairs.They're still upstairs!"

"All right." He tried to calm her."We're getting there, miss.You and your children need to get outside."He pointed down the final set of stairs, then had to move out of the way as several men rushed past him.

Ginny blinked.He wasn't moving up the stairs."But my sister and mother and step-"

"Look-" He paused and consciously softened his tone as he stared into glistening, pale eyes, illuminated by the flames from the stairwell and accentuated by Ginny's ash-darkened face."My men are going there now.They'll do the best they can, but now you're in their way."

Ginny sniffed and nodded, and with one arm she herded her brothers down the final set of stairs and outside into the night.Their shoes hissed loudly when they stepped onto the snow-covered street and tiny wisps of steam escaped from the smoldering soles.

Snowflakes were still falling and it hurt to breathe. She couldn't think straight and her throat felt thick and her chest heavy, as if someone was standing on it. Men were rushing past her, too fast to stop or question, and she stepped around a wagon, leading the boys across the street.

They stepped up the curb and onto the sidewalk, where all turned around to see where they'd just come from, what they'd just survived.With her heart in her throat, Ginny's gaze drifted upward.

Everything above the fourth floor was burning. Flames shot from the windows and great plumes of black smoke spiraled up into the night, disappearing into the hazy sky.In a small, rational corner of her mind she realized that the fire had probably started on the fifth floor and spread from there.Her eyes fixed on her bedroom window, then her parents' bedroom window.She saw nothing but flames shooting from them, lashing against the building's dirty brown surface.

The pressure on Ginny's chest increased and a wave of nausea swept over her, threatening to send her to her knees.She bent at the waist and swallowed convulsively, the action managing to slip the blanket from Jane's head.

Jane poked her head out from the rumpled cloth.Her fair, sweaty hair was plastered to her head and rings of black soot circled her dripping nostrils.She was facing away from the building and her arm snuck up between her and Ginny as she held out a delicate, open hand.

"Yes, baby, it's snow."She straightened, her back and neck already growing stiff.So fast she wasn't prepared for it, her teeth began to chatter."AreÉ are you cold?"

"Not cold," Jane answered confidently, trying her level best to catch a snowflake.

Ginny hugged the girl tightly; her hands were numb and she fumbled with the blanket, ignoring the blood stains before turning her attention to her brothers, who were standing a few feet away, their eyes glued to the burning building.Refusing to look up again, she took a step towards her brothers and spoke as calmly as she could."Are you boys hurt?"

Lewis had his arms wrapped around himself in mute comfort.The snow was beginning to accumulate on his hat.Lewis shook his head at his sister's question and James didn't bother to answer at all.But neither boy tore their eyes from the flames to focus on Ginny.

"No."Ginny interrupted him."We just have to wait.The fire brigade is here now.See?"She pointed a shaking finger towards the steam-powered engines with their local brigade's emblem emblazoned proudly on the side.The large machines were pulled by a team three enormous, snorting horses.

"They're dead," James mumbled, his voice dull and flat."It's all burning. Every bit of it."

Despite herself, Ginny looked up again.The horrific scene twisted her stomach and she couldn't find it in herself to disagree with her brother.

"But we can still hope, right, Ginny?"Lewis' lower lip quivered as he spoke and Ginny wrapped her arms around his small shoulders as she hugged him and Jane.

Not wanting to be left out, James joined in, slipping his arms as far around Ginny and James as they would go.

More people shouldered past, and curious onlookers began to jam the street.Another wagon stopped right in front of them to join in the effort to keep the fire from spreading to the neighboring buildings. Volunteers jumped out onto the street, their hands full of axes and empty buckets.

Ginny pressed her cheek against the top of Jane's head and gazed up into the dusky sky.Snowflakes collected on red lashes."Yeah."Her throat worked for several seconds before she whispered, "We can still hope."

Lindsay moved quietly in the pre-dawn hours, inching her way in and out of the shadows as she tucked her collar up to ward off the icy breeze.Her legs ached from hours of walking, but, finally, she had been able to hitch a ride on a boxcar heading in the right direction. She winced a little at the tightness in her calves. This Street-Arab-turned -young-woman was used to riding not walking. And while she could run a fifty-yard dash with the best of them, when it came to endurance she found herself seriously lacking.And she didn't like it.

Lindsay made a note to do something about that.Self: Avoid long, dreary walks in the snow at all costs.She paused mentally. Exception to note to self: Ignore the first note when you've got to find the peckerwood that stole your stuff.

The sound of muffled cheers and cursing drew her attention from her woes.She continued a few feet farther, then planted her palms firmly on the cement deck of the railway platform and jumped up, still managing to remain completely silent.

The station was deserted at this time of night, but several hundred feet beyond the end of the platform, underneath a bridge over another set of tracks, she could see several men gathered in a circle.She peered through the darkness at them, unconsciously holding her breath. To the left of the men was a large steel drum, and occasionally one of them would step away from the circle and warm his hands over the fire burning brightly inside it.

Lindsay moved closer and closer, alert eyes no more than slits as she tried to glean the men's identities.A short, stout man lumbered over to the drum.AhhÉ there you are, Rat Face.Did you really think I wouldn't come and find you?

Her mind suddenly put names to the two unidentified figures, and she raised an eyebrow as she considered Rat Face's companions.Not good.These men were cousins, or so they claimed, and were among a small minority of vile rail riders who preyed on their own kind.They were rough and ruthless-Lindsay swallowed-and very large.But they wouldn't matter at all if she could get Rat Face alone.Which was exactly what she intended to do.After thatÉ well, she could take care of herself. And this time she wouldn't be sucker-punched, or pushed, as the case had been.It never even entered Lindsay's mind to cut her losses and stay away from trouble.If it got around the tracks that she'd been easily robbed, any sense of safety or measure of respect she'd earned over the years would evaporate as easily as the morning fog.In her mind, she simply had no choice.

It wasn't until she was about thirty feet away, her presence hidden by darkness, that she ventured a guess at what the men were hooting and hollering about.They were standing around several crates and staring down at the ground.Shooting craps?But another two paces and she could tell the stacks of wooden crates had been placed in a rough circle.Her face twisted in disgust when she heard the low panting then growling of a dog.

"Forget it," Jean, the tallest of the three men shot back. "Do I look stupid, you loser wop?"

"Yes.And by the wayÉ go to hell, Frenchie."Rat Face, otherwise known as Albert Mineo, though that was only to his grandmother, and only before he'd turned seven and the old woman gave up the fight and called him Rat Face like everyone else, turned to the third man."What about you, shit for brains?That's ten rats."

Jacque grabbed his crotch and gave it a little jiggle, indicating his displeasure at Albert's offered bet.

Albert sneered, showing off stained teeth as he stared at the man's groin."You wish, pee wee."

Bored with their banter, Albert sighed and turned his mind back to the game.More action was what he wanted.And he had a pocket full of someone else's change.Life, he decided, was very good."All right thenÉ" he paused as he considered the dog's sorry state.

The beast was part French bulldog, part hellhound.While only half the size of his English cousins, his thirty-pound body was rock solid and teeth razor sharp.His nose was swollen and bleeding as were his pointy ears and dirty paws, though how much was his blood and how much was rat blood, Albert couldn't be sure.His thick throat was rubbed raw from the rusty chain that prevented his escape from the circle of crates, and he was covered in a fine layer of snow.A rat, who had latched onto the dog's haunches with its razor teeth, swung lifelessly from the mutt's body, refusing, even in death, to let go.The dog shifted sideways as Albert stared.His glistening black eyes were wild and reflected the light of the fire as he stared at Albert with the icy gaze of madness.

Albert shivered, then with fingertips that poked out of the holes in his gloves, he scratched his short beard speculatively."Ten seconds, ten rats."

"Done!" both men shouted, throwing their change onto the ground just outside the circle of crates.Their coins made tiny indentations in the snow.

The next sound Lindsay heard was the growling and snarling of the dog, followed rapidly by the hooting and cheering of the men.She picked up a broken glass bottle from the ground and carefully got a firm grip on the neck, its icy surface stinging the nicks in her palm."Time to go, boys," she whispered."Now all I need is a little luck." With that she drew in a deep breath and concentrated on lowering the pitch of her voice.At the last second she threw in a thick Irish brogue for a touch of authenticity. "This is the police!Stay where ye' are!"

All three of the men's heads snapped sideways towards her, but she was pressed up against the fence and safely out of view.Before they could react, Lindsay launched the bottle into the darkness and over their heads and over the bridge, sending it crashing against the side of a building.

"Cops!" Jean pushed Jacque with fumbling hands."Run!"The cousins spun around in circles, bumping into each other for a few seconds as they decided which way to run. They chose to head back towards the station, and the young woman's eyes widened as they approached her with surprising speed.

She pressed herself as tightly against the fence as she could, her face against the cold metal as she held her breath and prayed.

The men sped past her, so close she could feel the cold whoosh of air against her back as they flew by.They climbed onto to the railway platform and ran through the station, their shoes clomping loudly in the quiet night.

Albert, who had stayed behind to scoop the coins out of the snow, cursed roundly as a nickel slipped between his pudgy fingers. "Cops. Cops. Shit."Finally, giving up on the nickel, he began lumbering towards Lindsay.But just as the woman was ready to jump him from the shadows, he changed his mind and turned back towards the crates and the steel drum.

"Oh, crap."Lindsay bolted from her hiding place and caught up to Albert when he was even with the barrel.She dove forward and clipped his heels with her hands, sending him crashing to the ground and sliding through the snow.

Albert rolled onto his back, automatically kicking out with a booted foot and connecting with the top of Lindsay's head."What the---?"

"Ugh."Lindsay felt the blow all the way to down her back but managed to twist sideways and avoid Albert's other foot.For a second she was dazed, seeing tiny stars instead of Albert as she tried to force her eyes to refocus.

"Shut up!" Lindsay shouted, launching herself at the man once more."I want my," she drew back her fist and punched Albert squarely in the jaw, wincing when she heard a sickening crunch in her own hand, "stuff."

Albert squealed in pain as his skin split and blood began dripping down his neck."I'm gonna," they began to wrestle, "kill you, bitch."

They rolled over several times, until Lindsay ended up beneath Albert and they both crashed into the crates that were stacked two high and formed the edge of the rat pit.Lindsay's elbow went right through one of the crates and the cracking sound sent the remaining caged rats and the dog into a barking and squealing frenzy.

"Gimme my money and my knife and flint!" She brought her knee up into Albert's groin.Hard.

He tumbled off her, gasping.His hands flew to his crotch and his wild flailing toppled one of the crates onto Lindsay, scattering mutilated rat carcasses all over her."Ahh!Jesus!"She knocked the crate from her chest and frantically began yanking the smelly, bloody bodies off her face and chest.

Lindsay's stomach roiled but she managed to get to her feet, a little dizzy from all that spinning and the blow to her head."Yeah, well, I never said I wasn't a bitch."She kicked the prone man in the guts as he tried to get up.He went sprawling."My money and my knife, Rat Face.Right now, God dammit, you fat fucker!Before I feed you to that dog!Though I'm sure your greasy blubber will taste worse that those sewer rats."

"Okay, okay," he grumbled."Hang on.StupidÉ" A cough."RottenÉ" Another cough."It wasn't even a dollar and the knife's dull besides."He wiped his dirty, bleeding cheek with the back of his hand then pushed to his knees.Then he sighed and shoved aside the tail of his tattered coat so he could dig into his trouser pocket.

Lindsay took a step closer and glared down at him warily.She was breathing heavily and the sound of the barking dog was frightening her, though she didn't want him to know it.She glanced sideways at the dog and swallowed hard."Hurry up, idiot."

"Here, String Bean." Albert offered her a closed fist, then with his other hand threw a large clump of snow at her face.

"Uh."The snow felt like grains of sand, stinging her eyes and cheeks, and Lindsay stumbled backwards.

Albert made the most of her temporary blindness and pounced.He toppled her with a blow to her ribs, then kneeled on her heaving chest, his weight pressing her hard into the cold ground."WellÉ well."He leaned forward and pinned both her arms with his meaty hands.

Albert growled and backhanded her viciously.Then did it again for good measure."Uppity for a street gypsy, ain't ya?Didn't anybody ever teach you not to mess with somebody bigger than you?That's the law of jungle, String Bean.I'm a lion and you're aÉ well, you're aÉ a smaller lion."

She coughed as blood filled her mouth and slid down her windpipe."IÉ I must have missed that lesson when I wasn't in school."

He cracked a tiny smile and roughly pulled her to her feet by the front of her coat.Albert could tell she was barely capable of standing on her own; he quickly rifled her pockets.Finding them empty, he decided he had better things to do, like trying to sell the dog he'd swiped from another ratter.Brutal beauties like him didn't come cheap and he could buy two lesser dogs to use quickly and discard. "Now get the hell out of here, String Bean, beforeÉ"

The disembodied voice came from behind Albert, and Lindsay closed her eyes when its owner registered. Oh, shit.This is bad.Bad.So bad.

Albert cruelly shoved Lindsay up against one of bridge's wooden support posts hard enough to send a shower of powdery snow down on them.Her head cracked against the frozen surface and once again she saw stars.

Rat Face's voice sounded very far away as he kept her from crumbling to the ground with his firm grip."Don't you recognize String Bean?" he grumbled as he decided what to do next.He'd been content in smacking her around and letting her goÉ it wasn't like she had any more money to steal.But he didn't want to look soft in front of Jacque and Jean.They were fairly new to the tracks and Albert was sure they would be important people to know.Besides, he had a reputation to uphold."What are you guys doing back here?"

Jacque brushed a thin layer of snow off his sleeves and tapped the brim of his hat to dislodge even more."We didn't see no cops.And we figured this was just some scheme of yours so that you could steal our bets."

"No," Albert protested indignantly."I would never do a thing like that."Damn, why didn't I think of that?

Jean looked down at Lindsay.Then he grabbed the hat off her head and exchanged it with his own, carelessly tossing his old hat into the steel drum's dancing flames.

"Hey!" Jacque, who had been staring at Lindsay's face, suddenly grabbed the front of her much abused coat and wrenched her away from Albert.

"He's a girl." Jacque's surprise showed in his voice."A woman," he clarified as he looked a little harder.He smiled.

"So?" Albert shot back a little confused.Everybody knows String Bean's a girl, don't they? "She's a bitch," he added for clarity's sake.His jaw was starting to hurt even more and he wondered briefly if she'd cracked the bone.

Jacque's smile twisted into a leer and Lindsay could feel her heart beating out of her chest.She'd seen that look a dozen times before, even had to jump off moving trains if it was coming from somebody especially dangerous.This man, she felt deep in bones, was very dangerous.

"Don't know any woman who'd hang around on the tracks Ôcept for a few whores me and Jean know from Queens.They sometimes get real hard up and have to go lookin' for customers.You a whore?"His eyes glittered with the promise of danger and he darkly intoned, "not like I'd have to pay."

"Do I look like a whore?" Lindsay asked through gritted teeth as her mind scrambled for a way out.

"No," Jacque allowed, shaking his head slowly."Not like no whore I've ever met. On the other-"

"She's not a whore," Albert interrupted, impatiently.There was a perfectly good dog and at least a half a crate of rats waiting for them and they were wasting their time on String Bean?"She's an annoying bitch rail rider just like the rest of us."

"Ow!"Grimacing, Albert rubbed the back of his head."That's not what I meant and you know it." He spun around and glared at Jean."Are all whoring Frenchies as stupid as you?"

"STOP IT!" Jacque roared."I don't want to watch you two losers fight." He jerked his chin towards Lindsay."I wanna know what we're going to do with her."

The seductive quality to Lindsay's voice snared Jacque's attention and he leaned in closer to her, pressing his body against hers and gulping when Lindsay licked her lips with excruciating slowness.He gulped, his eyes riveted on those pink lips."What, baby?"

"This." With all the force she could muster, Lindsay slammed her forehead into the bridge of Jacque's prominent nose.

Jacque screamed and covered his face with his hands as hot blood pooled in his palms and light wisps of steam rose from the thick liquid and vanished into the night sky.

Lindsay made a break for it, but in three more strides she felt herself hitting the ground.Her chin struck snow-covered rocks hard, leaving a dark trail on them when she moved her head.Jean was on her back, pummeling her with large fists.His third strike was to her left kidney and she shrieked in pain, her body jerking away from the violent blow.

Jacque dragged a stumbling Lindsay back towards the rat pit and kicked several of the crates out of his way.The dog began to bark again, pulling on the chain and baring bloodstained teeth in anticipation of another fight."String Bean, that's your name, right?"

Lindsay didn't acknowledge the question.She couldn't even hear it over the ringing in her ears.Jacque shook her to gather her attention and a searing pain shot through her side, making it hard to breathe, much less think.

"Hey."Albert's heavy brow furrowed as his gaze traveled first to the dog, then to Lindsay. "What are you gonna do?"

"He's gonna feed her to the dog, moron," Jean advised Albert coldly.He tucked his chilled hands under his arm pits.

"There are no cops!" Jacque yelled, punching Lindsay in the stomach. Next, he punched her in the nose, smiling at the satisfying crunch of cartilage and the stream of hot blood that went pouring down her chin and splattering onto the ground.Steam rose from it.

Lindsay felt like her entire head had exploded in pain, and she doubled over, feeling sick and dizzy all at once. For an instant she wished she'd hurry up and pass out, but her heart was still pounding furiously, sending a surge of adrenaline singing through her blood.She swung an ineffective fist at Jacque, who merely laughed and slapped it away.

Jean moved over to help Jacque hold her upright as he continued to rain down blows on her. "Do you see any cops?" Jacque asked Albert condescendingly.

Albert glanced around again."Guess not." A look of uncertainty chased across his face."But stillÉ"

Jacque didn't wait for Albert's next words.He simply lifted Lindsay off her feet and tossed her, back first, into the rat pit.

She landed on a pile of rat bodies, and the force of her fall squashed them beneath her.The air was forced out of her lungs but before she could manage to draw in another breath, Jacque casually reached over and picked up the rat crate.

He tore the lid off and, without so much as blinking, dumped the dozen or so remaining rodents directly onto Lindsay's screaming, writhing body.He turned to Albert and Jean and in an eerily calm voice said,"One woman, one minute, one dollar?"

With deadly intent, the snarling dog surged forward towards the rats and Lindsay's pale, exposed throat.She could smell his foul breath the instant before he was upon her and his filthy teeth began tearing into her flesh, sending white-hot bolts of agony through her already damaged frame."Noooo!" she howled out, clawing wildly at the insane dog's face and eyes.

Albert looked on in horror as Jean cried, "Done!" and threw his bet onto the snow at his cousin's feet.

Lindsay's ear-splitting screams could be heard for blocks as the New Year's sun started to rise over Queens, New York.

It was nearly time for the first morning train to arrive at the station and the locomotive's whistle wailed as it sped towards its destination.Because of the holiday, only a few passengers waited impatiently for their morning commute.They stood shifting from one foot to the other, hands stuffed in pockets, scarves tucked neatly around their throats to ward off the chill as they read their newspapers and glanced worriedly at their pocket watches.Their bosses never seemed to understand that sometimes the train was just late.

A thick layer of snow-laden clouds hid the newly risen sun, and so, despite the hour, the City was still cast in an ethereal silvery glow and its shadows still held the secrets of the night.Out of one of those shadows emerged a slowly traveling figure that stopped and covertly watched as Albert unhooked a blood-stained dog and turned him loose.Albert was scared witless by what had just happened and couldn't bear remaining even another second with the beast he was sure would now haunt his dreams.

The dog snapped at Albert's hand, and then tiredly limped away.In a matter of seconds the mutt found a hole in the fence that lined the tracks and disappeared into an alleyway.

Jacque and Jean kicked at the rough circle of crates, scattering the evidence of their game before heading towards the railway station and the plate of steaming eggs and hot coffee they intended to purchase with their winnings.

Albert had been elected to do Ôsomething' with Lindsay and he grabbed her limp body by her arms and dragged it well out of view of anyone who might happen by.Carelessly, he kicked snow over her and laid a few sheets of old, torn newsprint across her face.

He let Jean and Jacque get well ahead of him before he pulled his cap further down onto his head and scratched at his chin.He knew a soup kitchen about three blocks from here where the line for lunch didn't really queue up until around 9am.Maybe he could find someplace to curl up and go to sleep for a few hours.After that he could snatch a purse or two and then track down Jean and Jacque.They seemed like the sort who would always be up for some sort of betting game.

Albert kicked several rat carcasses out of his way as stepped onto the tracks and followed Jean and Jacque's footprints in the snow.

As soon as the coast was clear, a figure bolted from the shadows and frantically began brushing the newspapers and clumps of snow from Lindsay's face and body.

The young woman was a ghostly white, splashed liberally with red.She looked dead.

There was a thankful sigh as the fingertip stilled for a split second then moved from Lindsay's neck to her battered face, where they tenderly traced her cheekbones.

"Still alive.But gotta hurryÉ" A shifting of weight. "God, you're heavy.I don't thinkÉ I canÉ yeah.Okay. MaybeÉ Yeah, okay."Lindsay was settled over a strong shoulder, and she let out a something between a wheeze and gasp of pain as her world was turned upside down.One eyeball opened and stared out at the fuzzy world before rolling back.She gratefully sank into the safe haven of oblivion.

"It'll be all right." A hand grasped one of Lindsay's dangling ones and squeezed gently."Whoa!"A misstep nearly had them both tumbling to the ground.

Lines formed on Lindsay's normally smooth forehead.She began to whimper every time she was jostled, which turned out to be nearly every step. And a steady stream of blood dripped from her face, soaking through the black coat beneath her cheek.

"Sorry.I couldn't help it.ShortcutÉ Up ahead.Damn.This isÉ hard."Breathing that had started out slow and deep was now labored."I have to takeÉ the tracks though.If you just hang on."Their pace increased."Just hang on."

A cold wind whistled through the station just as the chugging train came to a halt. Not a single passenger debarked and the few men and women who were waiting to board settled into their seats in a matter of seconds.A skinny Negro footman exited the lead car and ran along the length the train, slamming shut each door with a practiced hand. The train's shrill whistle sounded three times in quick succession before there was a loud hiss and a black, noxious cloud exploded upwards from the smoke stack.

Lindsay couldn't hear the sound of panting or the rapid footsteps that pounded along the tracks beneath her.

The rails on either side of them began to vibrate and worried eyes glanced backwards towards the station then widened."Shit."

The train lurched forward and began to gain speed quickly.Soon, it was eating up twenty feet for every one of theirs.The whistle blared again, warning anyone foolish enough to be on the tracks, especially in the wan light of early morning, to move or be run down.

Faster and faster they went.The sound of leather boots furiously striking wooden tracks with greater force than before and the loud panting of her rescuer was nearly enough to drown out the deafening monster on their heels.But they couldn't move off the tracks.They had to keep going. This particular stretch of rail was lined not only by a rickety fence but also by buildings set so close to the tracks that even a worn out, rat-killing dog had to squirm to fit between them and the fence to enter the alleyway.

The train's shadow loomed over them and the roar grew louder and louder as the tracks shook.

A ferry worked sluggishly across the East River from Manhattan to Blackwell's Island.A mile and three-quarters in length, and just under 200-square acres, the narrow strip of land was located directly in the middle of the East River, which separated Queens and Manhattan.A layer of clean snow covered the flat terrain in a blanket of pristine white and the ice-laden tree branches swayed in the frigid wind, causing intermittent cracking sounds as wood struck wood.But for many of the island's inhabitants, the simple beauty of a frosty January day was lost.

Blackwell's was home to the solid stone, four-story, 750-cell New York State Penitentiary, which held both men and women and whose reputation as a secure, well-built facility was known throughout the state.To the north of the prison, two side-by-side gray, stone buildings housed over 1400 souls who had been sent to the Work House as punishment for their misdeeds, typically public drunkenness. The brick Lunatic Asylum, established in 1839, and New York's only hospital dedicated solely to the treatment of those with Small Pox both resided on Blackwell's Island, serving as models of modern architecture and civic-mindedness.

Virginia Chisholm, however, was on her way to the island's Charity Hospital, a proud granite structure surrounded by several majestic oak trees and well-maintained shrubbery, that was cared for by workers made up of inmates and patients from the island's other facilities.The waters of the East River were choppy and dark, and as the ferry moved closer to its destination, Ginny began to dream.

It seemed as though Ginny and her siblings had been sitting out in the snow on Orchard Street for days.Though it had been several hours.Her hands were numb but her lungs, stomach, and throat felt as though she were continually being force-fed searing-hot coals. Every breath required more effort than the last as the band around her chest continued to tighten.

Jane lay sleeping on Ginny's shoulder, her fair hair mixing with Ginny's darker locks with every gust of wind.The excitement of the night was finally too much for the 3-year-old to withstand, though it had still taken three renditions of her favorite lullaby to coax her into a fitful sleep.

Lewis' eyes were riveted to every fireman that entered or exited the smoking building.Ginny had long since given her little brother her coat and the dark woolen covering dwarfed the short boy, making him look like one of New York's thousands of street urchins.

His brother, James, stared straight ahead with unseeing eyes, knowing he should be sad or feel something.Instead, he just felt tired and empty and craved a bed where he could pull a blanket over his head and shut out the world completely.

"Look, Ginny," Lewis said glumly as he pointed to doorway of the tenement building.Two pairs of firemen carried two full litters draped with dull gray cloths and placed them at the end of a line that had grown steadily longer through the early and mid-morning hours.

Ginny's stomach churned and she coughed weakly."No more please," she mumbled, not realizing that her brothers could hear her, that they were hanging on her every word, every gesture.She'd already fought her way across the crowded street three times to identify the bodies that lay under the cloths next to the hospital wagon.

Ginny had seen Sophie, the bright-eyed girl whose mother worked in a quilting factory as Alice did.The Frederick family who'd only arrived from Hamburg two months before.All six of them lay cold and lifeless, growing stiff as the snow accumulated atop them.Vincent and Joan from the fifth floor, who had sang Happy Birthday to James and Lewis just last month when they'd passed the boys in the hallway, were gone too.Vincent had been so badly burned that Ginny had calmly replaced the cloth that had covered him and turned her head to throw up.If she lived to be a hundred, the young redhead was sure she'd never forget the smell.

But every time she lifted a cloth and didn't find her mother, or sister, or stepfather, she thanked God.And she felt bad about that too, knowing that the people she was seeing were kin to someone too.Someone just like her only they didn't know it yet.

"Lew-" Ginny swallowed painfully; her voice was nearly gone.Something was terribly wrong but she couldn't worry about that now."Lewis, canÉ can you hold Jane?"

The little boy nodded and unbuttoned his coat.He opened his arms to his chubby baby sister and she snuggled happily into his warm embrace, falling back asleep before she even realized she'd woken up.

"I'll go, Ginny," James offered manfully as he began to push to his feet.His expression was grim but resolved, and wholly unbefitting a boy of his age.

"I said no!" she snapped, instantly regretting it when a look of hurt flashed across her brother's face."Oh, James, I'm sorry," she whispered, her voice cracking. She gave the boy a watery but heartfelt smile of apology."I didn't mean to do that, James."

James trained his eyes on his legs and picked at a loose thread on the seam of his trousers.He and Lewis were the men of the family now.And they should be strong.Men didn't cry like sniveling babies no matter what. A single tear snaked down his flushed cheek and he angrily wiped it away with dirty fingers."S'okay."

"No." Ginny shook her head.She wanted to tell him that it wasn't okay, that she shouldn't have been so harsh and that she loved himÉ and so much more than that.But she felt as though a heavy weight was pressing against her breastbone and it just wouldn't stop and let her catch her breath.She would, she decided, see to her own injuries later.After she'd crossed to the street and found the rest of her family one way or the other.I need to get the kids someplace warm and dry.And they'll need to eat and use an outhouse. She shivered as goosebumps erupted on her arms, missing her coat for the first time.

"Ginny." Lewis' voice was suddenly panicky and Ginny followed his wide-eyed gaze.Men in dark pants and white coats were loading the stretchers that had just come from inside the building onto a wagon.

"I'll be back," Ginny called scratchily over her shoulder, already making her way through the throngs of emergency workers and neighborhood residents.She was panting now and felt a little faint.

Her mind had raced.What now?Where do we go if I find them? No.I can't think like that.Not while there's still a chance.But no matter how Ginny tried, she couldn't make herself believe it.Not a living occupant of 88 Orchard Street had come out of the building after her and the siblings she led out of the building. God.She'd closed her eyes at the feeling of her heart tearing in two.How do you give up on your family? How will I tell the boysÉand Jane?

Halfway to her destination she had the sudden urge to stop.So she did, turning back to see what she knew in her heart that her remaining living relatives were sitting patiently on the curb, waiting for her return.She lifted her hand to wave and both boys waved back, causing a tiny, affectionate smile to twitch at her lips despite the situation."I love you.Be good," she mouthed silently

Lewis mouthed back ÔYes' and James just rolled his eyes, pulling his cap down over his face.

When Ginny turned back to the fire she felt dizzy and she grasped onto the side of one of the fire wagons to keep her balance, but for some reason her fingers wouldn't work and she slid to the ground.The sound of the people rushing around her, the spraying of fire hoses and the crackling of burning wood all seemed to fade as tiny dots danced before her eyes.She caught a glimpse of the wagon carrying the stretchers starting to move a split second before her world went black.

The ferry butted gently against the dock and several bulky men from the New York Penitentiary, clad in striped prison attire, plain brown caps, and shabby coats, loaded the injured and ill from the boat onto wagons.A nurse quickly picked through the coughing, crying or simply unconscious bodies, separating the critical patients from the rest and loading them onto a blue wagon that would be allowed to leave for the hospital first.

Ginny's stretcher was placed alongside an elderly vagrant who'd been stabbed in a robbery the night before and who'd waited in the receiving area of Manhattan's finest hospitals as the hospital administrators argued over where he should receive treatment.Ginny had been much more fortunate and was routed directly to the docks where the Charity Hospital Ferry was just about to cast off.

With a quick snap of the reins, the blue wagon began to move and Ginny gazed up into the winter sky.She was confused and she blinked several times, trying to gather her scattered thoughts.Am I dead? she wondered dazedly.Where are the boys and Alice?Why can't I breathe?She rolled her eyes sideways in time to see a nurse, who was riding in the wagon along with her patients, scowl as she checked an old man's pulse.Ginny closed her eyes again, welcoming the darkness.She didn't want to see the blanket that was covering him pulled over his head.No more, she told herself.No more death today.

On the other side of Blackwell's Island, a second ferry carrying patients bound for the Charity Hospital docked with a muted thud, sending a small wave of dark, dirty water sloshing over the wooden landing.This transport was nearly empty and its few injured passengers were unloaded quickly.A single stretcher holding Lindsay Killian was placed in a blue wagon and rushed towards the hospital emergency room.

On this day, two young women's fates were about to collide and each would be changed forever.

It was full dark before Lindsay was moved from the surgery to a bed at the far end of the women's fourth floor east wing.Two prisoners lifted her from the gurney she was riding in and gently placed her on a bed clad only in dingy white sheets and topped by a thin pillow inside a pale pink pillowcase.

Her head sank into the pillow and the sheet was draped over her. Lindsay let out a little moan and licked dry lips as the Ôorderlies' disappeared.She cracked open one eye and the room spun a little as she tried to gain her bearings.

She had awoken to a world of hurt that reeked of bleach mixed with the metallic scent of blood.Where am I?

Most of the ward's lights had been turned off, casting the unfamiliar, institutional setting in haunting shadows.Gone were the bridge and the railroad tracks, which were the last places Lindsay could truly remember being, though she had a vague recollection of being carried down the tracks, the cavernous but warm interior of a church, and a frantic wagon ride.

She blinked with exaggerated slowness, realizing that she was only seeing out of one eye.Her entire body ached and felt impossibly heavy and the room appeared to be draped in a dense haze.

Lindsay tried to open her other eye and, when she couldn't open it at all, a surge of panic tore through her.What if she'd lost it in the fight?Her heart began to pound.What if the dogÉ?God.The room swam as she tried to sit up. "Damn," she cried out brokenly as a bolt of searing pain halted her movement instantly.Her abdomen felt as though someone was twisting a knife in it and her head throbbed.Where the dog had torn into her shoulder she could the tight, burning sensation of new stitches holding together tender skin.

"Now then," a nurse, whose accent clearly indicated she was from Queens, startled Lindsay. But despite the woman's somewhat grating tone, Lindsay was relieved to hear a voice, any voice, being directed at her. That means I'm not dead, doesn't it?

"You shouldn't move," the nurse chastised mildly.The woman was middle-aged and plump, her dress protected by a white apron that stretched to the floor. A crisp white hat sat atop her head of dull brown hair.

Cool air tickled Lindsay's legs as her sheet was pulled back.She fought the urge to cover herself."Clothes?"

"Those rags are long gone.But your soiled coat and shoes are under your bed." The nurse made a face."I'll see if we can't clean up the coat tomorrow so they won't be forced to give you a new one."

"They?"Lindsay's voice was weak.She thought she remembered several nuns hovering over her. Or was that years ago?"The church?"

"Hardly," the nurse snorted."I mean the State of New York."She tapped a syringe in her hand, removing the air bubbles."No one's told you anything, have they?"

"No."The nurse gently coaxed her back down with a practiced hand."The hospital isn't part of the prisonÉ or the lunatic asylum," she assured before Lindsay could ask.Then her voice took on a slightly impatient edge."Now hold still."

Lindsay felt a prick on her thigh as a needle pierced her skin, then a stronger, burning sensation as a liberal dose of drugs, whose primary ingredient was morphine, was administered.

"What's your name?"The nurse lifted the chart from its holder at the end of Lindsay's bed and annotated the time and dosage of the medication."This says Ôunknown'" She quirked a grin. "You'd be surprised how many women in the State of New York decided to name their babies that.I swear sometimes it seems as though we're overrun with them. But somehow I doubt that's your real name."

A deep crease appeared on Lindsay's forehead as she thought.I know thisÉ I thinkÉ "IÉIÉ"

The young woman's fear must have shown on her face because the nurse laid a comforting hand on her leg.

Lindsay tried not to jerk away from the unexpected contact, but her reaction was instinctive. She didn't like people touching her.That was dangerous.

"It's all right," the nurse said calmly.She lifted her hand from Lindsay's calf then continued to thumb through the chart. "Ahh. That explains it.You have a concussion among other things. I'm sure that tomorrow things will seem much clearer."She replaced the chart and tucked her pencil behind her ear.

"You need to rest now.You've only recently come out of surgery."The older woman tugged Lindsay's sheet up to her chin and tucked its sides tightly into the thin metal bed frame.Then she pulled a threadbare blanket from the cart she'd left parked in the aisle and laid it over her patient."Hush now, or you'll wake up the others.Someone will be back around to check on you later.My shift is finally over."The Ôthank God' was left implied.

Surgery? Damn. I don't have the faintest idea of how I got here. I can't think about that now.They cut me open? Lindsay licked her lips to speak and caught a glimpse of a moving shadow."Wait," she rasped.So thirsty."My eye?"

She whimpered a little, wondering how long until the drugs would take effect.Unwilling to follow orders without question, Lindsay refused to try to sleep.Instead, she took in her surroundings as best she could, pushing the pain into a manageable corner in the back of her mind.

To one side of her bed was a plain white wall.At least that's all I seeÉ I hope that's all that's really there.She was, she finally discerned, at the very end of a long, dark ward filled with single beds.She couldn't muster the strength to turn completely over but she could shift just enough to see that in the bed next to hers, so close that she could reach out and touch her if she wanted to, was a fitfully sleeping woman. Lindsay took a moment to study her neighbor to determine whether her coat and shoes would be safe under the bed or ifshe'd have to sleep with them.

Moonlight spilled over the stranger's drawn face, highlighting her slightly upturned nose and a small, delicate mouth and making her appear a ghoulish gray. Her breathing was harsh and thick and Lindsay idly wondered what tragedy had befallen her, causing her to end up hereÉ all alone.

She's younger than me, I think. But with the same piss poor luck or she wouldn't be here at all.But the passing interest faded as the drug began to seep into Lindsay's bloodstream.Her chest and neck began to itch and she lifted a shaky hand to try and scratch them.Her brow furrowed when she fuzzily realized that her hand was wrapped in a thick bandage and her fingers splinted.How did that happen?Then she moved her hand upward to her face, still worried about her eye, which she could feel was completely swollen shut.She poked the tender flesh gently until she was more or less convinced that her eyeball itself was still there.Higher still, and she could feel that her head was wrapped in gauze.

The constant thudding in her temples and the sharper pain below her breast were beginning to fade, and her eyelid began to grow heavy.But she continued on, her fingertips tracing her nose, which was splinted and bandaged. Now that she wasn't surprised about.In a blinding flash, she could see Jacque's heavy fist coming straight at her and hear the sickening crunch of cartilage all over again.An unexpected wave of nausea swept over her and she swallowed hard against it.She grimaced, causing her to feel the sting of two deep scratches that ran from just below her eye to her chin.

A soft groan drew Lindsay's attention sideways to the next bed.The woman had turned from her back onto her side and was now facing Lindsay.String Bean frowned at the sound of the redhead's shallow gurgles.The breaths were wet and shallow, something that Lindsay could easily place now that her mind wasn't so preoccupied by her own misery.She'd heard it many times before, especially in the winter.Pneumonia.But then why are her hands bandaged? She blearily noted the covered appendages that were now sticking out from under the sheet.

Finding it hard to concentrate as the sense of dislocation within her own body grew, Lindsay felt sleep's irresistible tug.She was about to give into it when she caught a glimpse of moonlight shimmering off the eyes of the women who had been sleeping.She blinked in surprise but held the stranger's pale, frightened gaze for several seconds before the woman's eyes fluttered helplessly shut once more.

Lindsay had a sinking suspicion that she would wake up and the bed next to her would be empty. Maybe I should call for a nurse.But wasn't a nurse just here?Everyone can't be saved, String Bean, the grim thought came unbidden, and she resolutely turned her mind elsewhere.Which wasn't hard, considering she now felt as though she was floating atop a wispy cloud, high above the earth and all its petty troubles.

"String Bean," she blurted out suddenly.A soft giggle bubbled up inside her.That's my name. She smiled to herself as the last bit of discomfort she'd been feeling floated away as if on a gentle breeze.Drugs, Lindsay decided as the mental fog she was drowning in finally reached out and claimed her, could be a very good thing.

Sunshine streamed through the windows of the women's fourth floor east wing at Charity Hospital.Lindsay awoke to the sound of a commotion coming from the bed next to her.Before she even opened her eyes she knew what it was.The girl who couldn't breathe is dead.There was no particular emotion tied to the thought.Save for the fact that Lindsay thought it was a waste and felt sorry for the soul who died all alone.Like I will someday.Like we all do. But then she heard a raspy, strained voice above what she assumed was the clamoring of medical staff.She made it.Whaddya know.

"You don'tÉ you don't understand." Virginia Chisholm's normally warm, somewhat husky voice was barely audible."I can't stay.My parents, the kidsÉ they-"

"Listen, young lady."The nurse straightened her back and crossed her arms over her chest as two other nurses threw their hands in the air and stalked away."You're still running a high fever and we almost lost you twice last night." She lifted an eyebrow. "Aren't you glad the doctor said you could have a small sip of water?"

Lindsay rolled her eyes at the nurse's condescending tone. Apparently she'd missed a lot during her drug-induced stupor.Good.Her eye drifted to the clock above the door, which she could barely make out.It read four o'clock.Did I sleep an entire day?

"If we hadn't given you enough painkillers to fell a horse not an hour ago, I don't think you'd be so sassy now," the nurse informed Ginny tartly."Don't move and be quiet. Girl, you are staying here until a doctor says you're not."

A grin twitched at Lindsay's lips and she turned her head to see who was giving the nurse such a hard time.She couldn't quite swallow the groan of pain the movement caused."Oh, nuuuuuuurse?I'd appreciate enough pain killers to fell a horse right about now," Lindsay called out.It came out more smart-ass than she intended it, but it was the God's truth.

The nurse spun around.It was the same heavy-set woman who'd given Lindsay a shot the night before."You're awake.Good.Now it'll be easier to change your bedpan."

"Who can pay for my stay here at the Ritz," Lindsay finished wryly, groaning a little as her body shook with silent laughter.What did they do to my side? And my ribs? "Ugh."

"I don't understand what's funny about that," the nurse said crisply."Medical treatment is not free, you know." The nurse narrowed her eyes. "You and Ms. Chisholm here are going to be nothing but trouble.I can see that.NowÉ" She lifted an expectant eyebrow at Lindsay. "Family?"

"Nope.No family." Lindsay ground her jaw together to keep from cursing as a wave of fresh pain washed over her."My head is killing me and it's just little ole me in the great big wicked City."

"Am I supposed to write that here?" The nurse tapped Lindsay's chart, which was still in its holder at the foot of Lindsay's bed, with her pencil."Little ole me?I'll tell you my name if you like?" She hesitated, as though she was waiting for an answer, so Lindsay nodded."I'm Miriam Goletz.But you can call me Nurse Goletz."She smiled."See how easy that was? Now it's your turn."

"If it will help me to get my pain killers faster, I'll be anyone you like.President Cleveland even.But I really need something."Lindsay's voice dropped to a rarely used pleading tone.

Oops."UmmÉI meanÉmy name is String Bean," Lindsay smiled triumphantly then quickly added as an after thought, "ma'am."Amazing how quickly pain has me kissing arse like there's no tomorrow.She hadn't even considered giving her birth name.It had been so long since she'd heard it spoken it didn't even seem like hers anymore.Has it really been so long?Six, nearly seven years?

The older woman shot Lindsay a self-satisfied smile before turning back to Ginny. It wasn't an actual name, but it was better than President Cleveland.

Ginny had quieted during the nurse's brief exchange with String Bean, which worried the hefty woman, especially considering how the girl had been kicking up a fuss about her family and a fire ever since she'd awoken."I'm going to ask the doctor if there's anything we can do about your fever, Ginny."The nurse laid a cool palm on Ginny's forehead, then she shook her own head ruefully."MmmÉ Still too high."

Ginny nodded as her eyes began to fill.She didn't feel hot; she was shivering.I'll bet the kids are cold.And scared."Hurry, please?I need to leave.I Émy family."

"Honey," the nurse gave Ginny a sad, sympathetic smile and her voice took on a kindly edge, despite her earlier gruffness."Your handsÉ they-"

Ginny lifted her hands and studied the white bandages with an almost disinterested air."Were burned," she finished simply.They didn't hurt really.There was only a slight bit of discomfort between her heavily wrapped fingers and she wondered briefly if the lack of serious pain was because of the drugs or the nature of the injury itself.The drugs, she figured.Her burns hadn't been that bad, had they?But then again, she couldn't be sure of anything at the moment. Everything felt fuzzy.

Ginny thought hard, forcing herself to concentrate.There was a fireÉ And I tore Lewis' coatÉThe baby was with Mama.Oh, Mama.Why didn't you come downstairs?And who is that annoying woman in the next bed who doesn't even know Cleveland isn't President anymore? What did she say her name was? She snorted to herself as her mind flittered out of her control. A vegetable, she said. Beetroot? Lima Bean?That can't be right.God, I'm so confused. I need to get out of here.I'll bet no one knows I'm here at all.Alice would be here if she knew.

"Yes," the nurse confirmed, breaking into Ginny's mental ramblings, "your hands were burned and the inside of your throat.The back of your neck is blistered too.I'm afraid we had to cut your hair.You won't be going anyplace for quite sometime. Your injuries need to heal."

Ginny reached for her hair, but couldn't grasp it with her bandaged hands.She scowled.

Lindsay winced, imagining how it would feel to burn your hands and throat. Even worse than having the shit beaten out of you and being attacked by a rat dog, she guessed."Oh, nurse?"

The older woman whirled around again and shot Lindsay a disapproving look. "Can't you see that I'm dealing with another patient?"

Lindsay was glad she hadn't said Ôhelping' another patient.She might have had to take exception to that since, as close as she could tell, the nurse was merely nagging the sick girl. "Someone said surgery?" At least I think they did. Her headache was back and so was the splitting pain in her side with a vengeance. "What happened to me?"

"What didn't happen to you is a better question. You have animal bites and scratches on neck and shoulder. And I'm afraid a chunk of your ear is missing."

The nurse turned back and started to take Ginny's pulse. She spoke to Lindsay without turning around."Your doctor will be around shortly to explain your condition."

"They'll be no blasphemy in this hospital, young lady," the nurse scolded before marching away.

Ginny coughed."Did you-" Her throat worked a few times before she could continue."Did you have to do say that?"

Lindsay awkwardly rolled over until she was at least partially facing Ginny."Ugh. That hurts." She jerked a thumb towards her own chest. "Are you talking to me?"She knew, of course, that Ginny was.But she didn't want to appear interested in talking to a stranger.Even though, given the circumstances, she didn't really mind now.

Ginny's pale, still disoriented eyes flashed with sudden anger."Yes," she ground out harshly. "If the nurse isÉ if she's mad at me, she won't help me get out of this place so I can find the kids."

"What did I do?" Lindsay queried honestly, feeling spurned and sorry she'd even bothered to acknowledge the girl."I just want some God damned medicine, that's all," she lashed back.

"I wasn't!" But Lindsay's voice was contrite.Maybe I've been in the company of assholes for so long that I don't remember how to talk to a regular person anymore.Especially a woman.Females were something that String Bean rarely encountered on the rails.And the few that she had met had been just as vulgar and twice as mean as the men.

"Okay, then."Then Ginny's brows furrowed and she all but growled in frustration."I don't know what you did," she admitted frankly."I can't remember anymore." Her eyes fluttered shut. "I'm all messed up.But I know it was something, Cabbage Head," she whispered as the sounds of the rolling hospital carts and squeaky beds and muffled voices all faded away into nothing.

"Cabbage Head?Who would have a stupid name like that?"String Bean exhaled long and slow, mentally willing the nurse to return with a shotÉpainkiller or whiskey, at the moment she didn't care which.She stared at the ceiling, knowing that Ginny wouldn't hear her answer."Considering I always seem to be in some sort of trouble, I must be doing something wrong."

It was 3 a.m. and the ward was dark the next time that Lindsay awoke to the sound of a different nurse's voice, coming from the narrow space between her and Ginny's bed.This time when Lindsay tried, both her eyes opened.Though the vision in her right one was still a little fuzzy.

The nurse was in a pale blue dress and a crisp, white apron. She appeared to be barely out of her teens and her starched hat sat slightly askew on her head.Even with Lindsay's damaged nose she could smell the scent of medicine wafting from the nurse's apron.The woman dipped a small washcloth in a basin of cool water and draped the dripping rag across Ginny's forehead.Carefully, she lifted one of Ginny's hands and pressed it lightly against the cloth, holding it in place.

The nurse told Ginny, "I'm sorry, I can't stay." The distress in her voice was palpable."A building collapsed on Mulberry Bend Street and nearly a hundred emergency patients are on their way here now."A frustrated exhale."Can you hold this?"

Ginny gasped as the cool water soaked through her bandage and hit her raw fingertips.I least I can feel something, she thought grimly.Her eyes were closed and she was trembling, but at her insistence they'd switched her medication to a straight, lighter dosage painkiller and something for the fever.Nothing more.She could focus now, and Ginny wasn't sure if that was a good thing or not.

Lindsay sat up a little, biting her lip as the stitches on her side were pulled taut."What's wrong?" she whispered.

"Oh, good.Can you move?"The nurse searched Lindsay's eyes and Lindsay licked her lips nervously, sensing something was seriously wrong.

"Yes."She took a brief inventory of her body.Her head no longer felt as though it was going to explode and, even sitting down, she could tell that most of her sense of balance had been restored.She still hurt, but not as badly as she had earlier that day.

"All right." The nurse nodded firmly."Hang on."She quickly moved around to the other side of Lindsay's bed and pushed it up against Ginny's.

"Miss Chisholm's fever is worse.Someone needs to cool her down with this cloth and I can't stay. No prisoners are allowed in the women's wards after dark or I'd use one here."She gestured towards Ginny."If her fever doesn't break soon we'll have to resort to an ice bath for her.After all she's been through I hate-"

The nurse quickly passed Lindsay the basin of water and a towel in case she spilled any. "Dab her forehead and neck.Like this." She demonstrated.

Ginny shook her head Ôno' but didn't open her eyes.Now the vegetable woman is going to play nursemaid to me? She's hurt herself.She can barely move."She doesn't need to," Ginny whispered hoarsely."I can-"

"Fine," Lindsay snapped back abruptly.She pushed the basin away, sloshing a small amount of water onto the towel that lay next to it."Do it yourself." She turned away from Ginny. "I'm still tired anyway. You-"

"No," the nurse interrupted firmly."She can't do it herself.I don't know what I was thinking, but her bandage needs to stay dry.You can use your good hand and you'll be fine."She didn't wait for Ginny to argue with her.She simply pinned Lindsay with a withering glare."I can count on you, right?"

"Right?" the nurse repeated a little more forcefully.She didn't have time for this.

Lindsay stuck out her jaw, preparing to refuse when, out of the corner of her eye, she sawGinny shiver.Her heart clenched at the sight and she found herself wanting to help, despite Ginny's apparent rejection.Stubborn girl needs somebody. "You can count on me."

"Good.I knew that when I heard you two were troublemakers it was probably an exaggeration."The nurse told Lindsay, "If her fever gets any higher, you yell. There's a nurse on the other end bay with a woman who is critical.She'll hear you if you call loudly enough."With that, she lifted her skirts and hurried to the exit.

"I'm not trouble," Ginny insisted quietly, gulping back tears.God, what is wrong with me? I need to get hold of myself and stop blubbering.

"Well, don't tell it to me.I never said you were trouble."Lindsay dunked the washcloth and squeezed out the excess water."I know you don't want my help."She paused with her hand hovering over Ginny's face."I won't touch you if it really bothers you."I don't give a shit what I told the nurse.I won't force my help on you.

After a moment's hesitation Lindsay wiped the cool cloth gently across Ginny's forehead.

Ginny sighed at the contact but her shivers increased.Time to apologize.She probably thinksÉ "ThankÉthank you."She felt the cloth trail down her sweaty neck.

Ginny's mind scrambled for something to say."Does your nose hurt?"Even in the dim light she could see that Lindsay had two black eyes and a spectacular bruise that covered most of her face.

Unconsciously, Lindsay wiggled her nose."Ouch." Her hand shot to the splint and she slapped herself in the face with the washcloth, stinging her scratches. "Shit!"

Lindsay lifted an eyebrow at the young woman, inwardly pleased that Ginny was holding back what could actually be a smile."Yes.It does a little," Lindsay admitted sheepishly.
"Not so bad if I don't touch it though."Casually, she shrugged one shoulder. "I'll heal soon and be out of this place."

Ginny swallowed hard as a rush of raw emotion swelled up inside her so quickly that she couldn't stop it."I need to heal soon, too."She blinked several times in rapid succession, sending a cascade of glistening tears down her cheeks."I can't stay here.God, the boys.Jane.I have to find them.Nobody will tell me where they are." She hiccupped and her face contorted in pain.

Lindsay's eyes went round and her hand with the washcloth in it froze, causing it to drip onto her thigh.She's crying?Not just a few tears, butreally crying.Oh, God. Oh, God."Don't cry.Please."I don't know what to do.She looked around desperately for someone to help, but only saw sleeping patients.

"IÉ I can't," a sob interrupted her, "I can't help it."Ginny lifted her hands to her face, forgetting about the bandages until she realized she couldn't wipe her tears without getting them wet.Before she could think of what else to do, Lindsay was running the cloth down her cheeks, cooling them with a gentle almost reverent touch that was at odds with the young woman's rough speech and demeanor.The tenderness was Ginny's undoing and with her next breath she broke down in earnest, crying freely and not even trying to stop herself.

Lindsay looked on in horror.Her own hands were shaking and she felt a little dizzy as her heart rate skyrocketed."Please," she begged."It's going to be okay.You'll see.You'll get well and go back to your family."

"No." Ginny shook her head frantically."There was a fire. And-" She swallowed thickly. Then the words spilled out in a panicky rush."My parents and two sisters.The nurse came and told me today.You were sleeping.They didn'tÉ I mean Mama and Alice andÉ" The redhead began to cry harder and the rest of what she said was lost amidst a haze of salty tears and broken sobs.

Lindsay didn't know what to do with her hands. It didn't seem right to continue to wipe Ginny's face, so she dropped the rag and hesitantly laid her hand on her companion's shoulder."I am so sorry," she whispered, truly meaning it.

Ginny closed her eyes as her chest heaved and when she opened them again, for the first time, Lindsay truly paid attention to what she was seeing.She took a long look into Ginny's heartbroken, sky-blue eyes as their gazes locked and when she did, a pang of sympathy touched her in a spot so deep, so surprising, that she nearly gasped at its intensity.

The comfort Ginny felt from the slender, almost timid hand on her shoulder, squeezing gently, was all out of proportion to the act.Her heart greedily soaked it up like a dry sponge being tossed into a sea of compassion and, without thinking, she sat up and wrapped her arms around Lindsay, her body craving another's contact as two days of grief, frustration, and raw fear poured out.

Lindsay bit her tongue, first in surprise, then in pain, as Ginny's body collided with hers.It took every ounce of her willpower not to jerk away.She took a deep breath and did what she'd never done before, never had done to her.She carefully wrapped a lean arm around Ginny's shoulders and allowed the redhead to cry against her unabated.She needs this.She has no one.I can do this.

Heat was pouring off Ginny and her sweat soaked through Lindsay's thin hospital gown. God, she's burning up.Probably delirious.

"No." Her voice was unyielding and Lindsay fought against the irrational urge to shake this young woman, this stranger who was plastered to her, for even thinking such a thing. "Don't say that," she told her emphatically."It's not true.You survived.They wouldn't want that."

Ginny sniffed and closed her eyes.She couldn't keep her teeth from chattering and, between that and her low, scratchy voice, Lindsay could barely make out what she was saying."But I'm É so so tired."A pause."My heart hurts."

And that, put simply, was something Lindsay had a bone-deep understanding of.Sometimes, when things were so dark and you were utterly lost and hurting, it seemed as though life wasn't worth the enormous effort it took just to live."Tomorrow you'll feel less tired." She felt her way cautiously."If not then, the next day or the next."

"I don't know where to find them."Ginny turned her head and Lindsay could feel small puffs of hot air as labored breaths brushed against her neck.

"You'll find them," Lindsay reassured, knowing full well that might not be possible. Orphans had a tendency to disappear into the system or worse, onto the streets, never to be heard from again. Wasn't that what I did?"You can't look from here.You need to heal first."Her arm was feeling more comfortable around Ginny's soft body and without meaning to, she began to relax a little into the foreign touch.

"But I don't know where to start! They don't have anyone but me." Ginny's voice cracked and a fresh wave of tears came along with her next revelation."I broke my promise to Alice."

Lindsay had no idea what the promise was but knew it had to be important from the self-loathing that rang in Ginny voice.

Ginny felt as though she might be sick.Abruptly, she pulled away from Lindsay, but she leaned back too fast and automatically reached out to brace herself with her hands.She cried out as soon they touched the bed, and a fat woman several beds down groaned in her sleep, mumbling for everyone to Ôshudda up'.

"Hey.I've gotcha."Lindsay's good hand shot out and she wrapped strong fingers around Ginny's upper arm, allowing Ginny to take the weight off her hands and lie down more carefully.A fine sheen of sweat glistened on the redhead's brow and Lindsay uncurled her fingers so she could pick up the washcloth again.Most of the basin's water had spilled onto the towel, but there was still plenty to dampen the washcloth.

Ginny sighed as the cool rag brushed over her eyebrows and cheeks and chin, wiping away her perspiration and tears.

Lindsay debated with herself, then asked what she was wondering."What promise did you break?" she asked curiously.This girl didn't seem the sort to lie. Ginny's jaw worked and Lindsay instantly regretted bringing it up.Who cares?You don't even know her. It's none of your business.

Ginny sniffed a little."I promised not to leave my younger brothers and sister.They're just kids."

"I'm almost eighteen."She looked at Lindsay carefully, wishing she could truly tell what she looked like.Behind the bandages and bruises and splints was someone that Ginny suspected was just aboutÉ."How old are you?"

"Old enough.Older than you," Lindsay answered seriously, trailing the cloth down Ginny's neck and wiping away a smudge of soot that had been missed by the nurses.

Another small grin twitched at Lindsay's lips at the younger woman's pushiness."Not much.I'm eighteenÉ no, nineteen last October."

Ginny blinked, a little surprised that her guess had actually proven to be right. "If I'm a kid then so are you. You're just like me."

"What happened to you?"Ginny lifted her bandaged hands to trace the outside of the dressing that circled Lindsay's head, but let it fall back to the bed when Lindsay subtly shifted away."I'm sorry," she whispered, suddenly very self-conscious."I wasn't thinking.IÉI-"

"No.It's okay." Lindsay's eyes conveyed her regret.She hadn't meant to do that."I just wasn't expecting that, okay?I'm not mad."

"Well what?"Lindsay dipped the cloth into the water again and squeezed out the excess into the basin.

"Speaking of thatÉ" Lindsay groaned a little for effect."I could really use some more painkillers.My side is killing me."

Ginny just waited, an eyebrow lifting when Lindsay not-so-skillfully changed the subject.

When Lindsay glanced up from her task she noticed Ginny's expression. "Oh.I ummÉ I was run over by a wagon," she lied.This girl doesn't need to know my business.

Ginny's second eyebrow lifted, joining its reddish-gold twin. "A wagon with claws and teeth?"

Ginny was tempted to press for information but could see by the guarded look in Lindsay's eyes that the subject was closed.A tremor passed through her and she suddenly felt very tired.

As she continued to apply the cool cloth to Ginny's face, Lindsay could see the younger woman growing more and more lethargic under her care. A handful of heartbeats later and they stopped talking altogether.A comfortable silence grew between them, until all that could be heard was the white noise of coughing and snoring women, the winter wind rattling the windows, and the low buzz of the dimmed lights that lit the opposite end of the long, narrow hospital ward.

Several quiet hours passed and Lindsay's thoughts naturally turned inward to the place they were most accustomed-the hushed recesses of her own mind.Her head was throbbing and she didn't have to guess where she'd had her surgery.The area not far below her breast felt as if it was on fire.When she could no longer hold the cloth without her own hand shaking, she awkwardly shifted onto her side so that she could watch over Ginny, only occasionally pressing the cloth against a sweat-slicked forehead.If I can make it till morning they'll give me something for the pain.They can't ignore us forever.I know it.

Ginny slept restlessly, her body warring with itself as her fever raged.Finally, just before dawn, she awoke feeling cool and listless.Her shivering had stopped and her thoughts were once again clear, if grim.Her fever had broken.

Ginny studied the woman who had so tenderly cared for her.The washcloth was still clutched in Lindsay's hand and her features were slack with sleep.Dawn's first rays of sun hit ice-covered windows and fractured, casting random patterns of golden light across the walls and beds.

Shoulder-length, chestnut brown hair peeked at odd angles from beneath the white gauze dressing that circled Lindsay's head.And lurid purple bruises started at Lindsay's jaw and blended into one another as they worked their way up to closed eyes, fringed with dark, long lashes.

"Who are you?" Ginny whispered, wanting to know more about this person and wishing she could see the woman behind the bandages and pain.Lindsay's eyes opened at the words and Ginny met her confused gaze easily.

"I umÉ" Lindsay wiped the sleep from her eyes with her good hand."I thought you heard me answer the nurse yesterday. My name is String-"

"No."That answer wasn't good enough.Not when there was a real one lurking behind the bewildered eyes looking directly into hers.Ginny felt as though she had shared a very personal piece of herself with this sometimes kind, sometimes annoying person, and she couldn't help but crave some of that openness in return."Who are you really?"

They stared at each other for several charged seconds until Lindsay said in a voice thick with sleep, "My name is Lindsay Killian."Ginny smiled and Lindsay couldn't help but smile in return.She has dimples, her mind laughed.

"Hello, Lindsay." Blue eyes conveyed warmth and strength that wasn't there only hours before and Lindsay was drawn to their sincerity. "I'm Ginny and I wanted to thank you."

Lindsay's brow furrowed, she could hear the strain in Ginny's voice and knew every word was painful."Don'tÉWellÉ" She looked away."It was nothing."

"You're wrong.It was something," Ginny corrected softly."I umÉ I need to find my family when I get out of this place." Her eyes twinkled."And something tells me that you're a very good person to ask for help."

"I am?" The words tumbled out without permission, and Lindsay held her breath, half-expecting Ginny to laugh at her genuine surprise. "You really think so?"

"Yeah," Lindsay whispered back, there was nothing wrong with her throat but she found herself unconsciously matching Ginny's hushed tone."I'll help."

They smiled at each other, both feeling a little less alone than they had before coming to Blackwell's Island.

Lindsay clenched her fist as she watched Nurse Goletz feed Ginny a bowl of lukewarm porridge."That's too fast for her to eat," she murmured under her breath. "Can't you see that?"

In all fairness, the heavy-set women looked as though she was dead on her feet.Even her starched white hat sat askew on her head and the top button of her dress, which was so high that it nearly brushed her jaw, was undone.She had been working non-stop since the building collapsed. And because they were short-handed, she was now starting another shift, in addition to the two she'd just worked.

There were several women on the ward who couldn't feed themselves because of various injuries to their hands or arms.And the nurse always started at the end, with Ginny, before working her way down the bay.It was a kindness to her young patient because at least the food would still be warm.

Ginny was swallowing as fast as she could but her throat was still tender and she always had been a slow eater anyway.In truth she was starving and mortally grateful for anything she could put in her belly.Unfortunately, during these speed-feeding sessions she ended up wearing more than she ate. Ginny was, however, bound and determined not to utter a single word of complaint.I'm not a troublemaker, she thought petulantly, ignoring a dribble of porridge that trailed down her chin and plopped onto the bib Nurse Goletz had fashioned out of a wash rag.

Two sets of surprised eyes swung towards Lindsay, whose head had been unwrapped. A small bandage had been taped over the lump and gash in her skin just behind her right ear.After cleaning her wound the day before, a nurse had allowed her to have a sponge bath and to wash her hair, which was now hanging loose about her shoulders, the morning sun reflecting off mahogany highlights.

Ginny eyed her jealously, feeling ten times grungier because she was looking at someone freshly scrubbed. She could still smell the faint echo of smoke on her skin and could feel the barest hint of grime on her belly and back, and it turned her stomach.She hoped it would be her turn for a bath today.Though she wasn't exactly comfortable with the thought of another person washing her, she knew it had to be done.Lindsay, on the other hand, had pitched such a holy hell-fit over another person touching her that the nurse allowed her to bath herself-one-handed.

"What is it now, String Bean?" Nurse Goletz asked tiredly."And be quick about it.I'm in a hurry."

"I can see that," Lindsay informed her bluntly.She stopped when she saw Nurse Goletz's hackles begin to rise and her lips thin. Taking a calming breath, she tried for diplomacy."How about you let me feed Ginny," so I don't have to watch that disgusting oatmeal concoction pouring down her chin, "and then you can tend to your other patients?"

The nurse blinked.She hasn't expected that offer from String Bean, who barely said a word to any of the medical staff except for the occasional request for pain medication.She'd been switched to laudanum today."I don't knowÉ" The nurse rubbed her jaw in contemplation.She'd scolded that new nurse up one side and down the other when she'd found String Bean and Ginny's beds pushed together the day before.Not only was it wholly indecent in its appearance, but, even if it was an emergency, a patient shouldn't be asked to assist with another patient's care.That was improper.

Ginny's eyes lit up at Lindsay's suggestion. I might get to eat like a human being instead of a starving wolf."Please, Nurse Goletz," she begged, her voice stronger than the day before."I know thatÉ umÉ String Bean would do a good job. And that you have far more important duties to attend to than feeding me."

Lindsay smiled at Ginny's use of her nickname.She knew the younger woman hated it for some reason but was inordinately pleased that she hadn't shared her real name with the nurse. It wasn't as though it was a secret.It just wasn't any of the hospital's business who the hell she was. If ÔString Bean' was good enough for her, it would have to be good enough for them.Besides, she liked the way her real name sounded when Ginny said it, and she didn't have the slightest interest in hearing it otherwise.

"Well," the nurse paused as she looked into Ginny's pleading eyes.She sighed."I suppose since it's a non-medical task it would be all right.We are busy."

"You truly are," Ginny intoned seriously, biting back an enormous grin."Thank you."

Lindsay began to sit up as the nurse eased herself off her perch on Ginny's bed.

The redhead watched silently as Lindsay bit her lip to keep from crying out as she shifted until she could swing her feet around to the side of the bed and stand.Ginny instantly felt a pang of guilt.How can I be so selfish?

The nurse handed Lindsay the bowl of porridge and spoon and a cloth."The doctor will be by to see you soon, String Bean."

"Is it my turn yet?" a woman eight beds down called out to the nurse.Both her arms were in casts and she had a pitiful look plastered across her face.

Nurse Goletz bit back a nasty retort and began to push her cart filled with bowls of breakfast down the aisle."Yes, yes.It's your turn, Mrs. Adolf."

Lindsay sat down on Ginny's bed and Ginny instantly reached out and laid her bandaged hand on Lindsay's arm."You're hurting this morning," she whispered, her voice full of concern."I should have told the nurse that she could keep feeding me."

Lindsay's eyes softened."My side is just tender and the stitches are starting to itch," she assured.A smirk began pulling at the edges of her mouth.

"What's so funny?"Ginny questioned suspiciously, sitting up a little straighter and preparing to open her mouth like a hungry baby bird if necessary.

"Well, scoop it up and feed it to me, for God's sake." She opened her mouth so wide Lindsay could see her tonsils."I'm starving."

Lindsay chuckled but ignored the request and took a moment to clean Ginny's face and throw away her food-covered bib.Only then did she give Ginny a fresh bite of porridge from the bowl. "Open wide for the choo choo."

Lindsay's face twisted in revulsion."You actually like this?" She lifted a big spoonful of the gray mixture up to the light and made a loud gagging noise.

Ginny swallowed slowly, sighing at how much better that felt on her throat than rushing it down."No, this is the most vile porridge I've ever tasted, but I'm hungry so I'm not picky.If you think I'm a messy eater you wouldn't believe Jane.She-" Ginny abruptly stopped as she realized what she was going to say.Jane.James and Lewis.Where are you?She closed her eyes to stop the leaking of the tears she could feel welling up.

Ginny nodded.I will not cry.I've already cried enough.She could hear Lindsay holding her breath, waiting to see if she would be blubbering again, and that was enough to help her firm her resolve.She opened her eyes."Yes. I will."With your help.

The rest of the bowl was emptied in silence, and when Lindsay was done she wiped Ginny's face once more and set the bowl on the floor between their beds, groaning when she straightened."Now that that's over I won't lose my breakfast watching you trying to eat your breakfast."

"IÉ ummÉ" Lindsay looked around self-consciously."I have a favor to ask you, Ginny."She licked her lips nervously.

"No!No.You've been so kind to me," she explained in a rush."I'll do anything I can." She lifted her hands and looked at them ruefully."But I can't do much without these."

"You don't need hands for this.I can hold it."Lindsay swallowed and looked down."It's okay if you laugh. I-"

"Okay."Lindsay reached out with her good hand and pulled her hospital chart from the holder at the foot of her bed, presenting it to Ginny."Can you tell me what they did to me?They said surgery but nobody will come and tell me what."

Lindsay shook her head, sending her hair scattering across her shoulders.With an annoyed hand she pushed a stray lock out of her eyes, wishing for her long gone cap. "My eyes are fine."She held the medical chart closer."Please?"

"That's okay." Lindsay smiled self-consciously.She knew that Ginny understood now and felt confident the girl wouldn't laugh."I won't understand any of it unless it's my name, a railway map, or a city name."

Lindsay laid it on her lap and opened the thin metal lid, exposing the lined papers covered in scribbles beneath."Hey," she pointed to the top line. "That says Ôwoman'." She knew that from the signs on outhouses.

Lindsay burst out laughing, causing several women to look up from their breakfasts."No, Ginny.I wouldn't say that exactly.What else does it say?" she asked anxiously.

Ginny's face went very serious as she read.Several times she visibly flinched."Here it says puncture wounds and multiple lacerations, most likely canine in origin."

"Dog bites," Ginny clarified, not looking too happy."And cuts and scratches, I think."

Ginny looked around the room as though the "curse word police" would jump out and arrest them at any second."Don't say that!"

"Two fractured ribs, one broken rib.Ouch.And fractures of the third and fourth...metaÉmeta." She sighed."If I had a dictionaryÉ"

"Never mind," Lindsay dismissed."Gotta be my fingers.They're the other thing broken that I know of."She held up her hand, showing off scratches that ran from her wrist to elbow that were still red and raw.

"MmmÉ true," Ginny acknowledged."This says a shifting of your broken rib after you arrived at the hospital resulted in ruptured spleen and then after it-" She looked up from the chart."Can you turn the page?"

Ginny read a few more lines before going very still.Her voice took on a solemn note and she looked up again at Lindsay before saying, "After ruptured spleen it says you required a sple.. spleÉ splenectomy."

"Shhh." Ginny looked around again, wincing at the disapproving frowns thrown their way by several women."Are you crazy?"

"I dunno. Does having a splenectomy cause that?Because if so, then I probably am!" I'm feeding strangers for Christ's sake.Isn't that proof enough?

"Calm down, will you?"She carefully laid both hands over the chart, closing it. "I think it means they removed your spleen."

"You mean cut out my spleen, don't you?" Lindsay corrected angrily."Then again, if it was something critical I guess I'd be dead by now."

"We'll ask the doctor when he comes." She held up a hand to forestall Lindsay's words."He will come.Eventually."He has to, doesn't he?

Ginny didn't want her to go but didn't feel as though she could ask her to stay either.She shifted onto her side and looked at her friend."It can't be too bad, Lindsay." Her heart clenched at the thought of something being seriously wrong with the young woman whom she'd come to think of as a friend."You're getting better, not worse, right?" There was a hint of pleading in Ginny's voice that Lindsay couldn't help but respond to.

Lindsay carefully rolled onto her side so that they were facing each other, the two feet between the beds all that separated them.She took a deep breath and let it out slowly. "Right.I can move around a little today."

Neither woman could think of anything to say and Ginny cast around desperately for a change of subject."What made you think I could read your chart?" Ginny asked finally, fully aware that over half the population, including her parents, couldn't have.

Lindsay thought about that for a moment.Why did she?Ginny was in a charity hospital just as she was, which meant she probably hadn't had the luxury of much schooling. "I dunno." She shrugged."You just seemed smart, I guess."

Ginny smiled weakly at the compliment but wasn't willing to let it go yet."It has nothing to do with being smart, Lindsay.I didn't have to start work until after the eleventh grade.It's just a matter of being taught.Anyone can learn," she hinted.

"I know," Lindsay said amiably, tossing her chart to the foot of her bed."Maybe I will someday."

Ginny didn't even stop to think as the words tumbled out."Because I'm scared out of my ever-lovin' mind.You helped me when there was no one else who could."

"You seemed smart to me too, in every way.Not just street smart.Though I'm guessing you're experienced in things that I'll need to know, seeing as how I'm sure I'm jobless and I know I'm homeless." Ginny's eyes twinkled."I believe deep in my heart that I can trust you."

"UmmmÉ" Lindsay's jaw sagged.She thinks I'm smart? How does she know she can trust me?Maybe I'm only being nice so that I can steal her coat!

Ginny flushed at the dumbfounded, but pleased look on her companion's face."Does that answer your question?"

"Yeah."Lindsay could scarcely believe the kind words and she felt her own skin heat."That answers my question."

Ginny slowly slipped on her coat and leaned against the small slab of wall between her and Lindsay's beds.She was wearing a donated, plain gray dress that was a little too small and a pair of brown leather shoes that were a little too big.The heavy bandages had been removed from her hands two days ago and though they still hurt, they were mostly healed and functional.Now only a light layer of gauze covered them.

The doctor had matter-of-factly explained that some scar tissue would remain, but that since she would likely end up working in a factory, squeezing out a dozen children before she was thirty, or washing clothes for a living, the beauty of her hands would be short-lived anyway.He didn't see any reason for her to fret.Ginny smiled a little, recalling how Lindsay had sprung out of bed and berated the doctor for being an insensitive asshole who should be shot. It wasn't until later that night, long after her doctor had gone, that Ginny found out her stubborn, hot-tempered friend had torn several stitches during her spectacular leap from the bed.

She felt worse this morning than she had since she'd first arrived at the Charity hospital. But this time it wasn't because of her injuries or even the loss of her family that caused it.It was Lindsay, and the fact that Ginny was being discharged today while her friend was not.

"Buck up, Ginny," Lindsay encouraged mildly, feeling self-conscious in her hospital gown while the other woman was fully dressed.

"I'll see you day after tomorrow on the late ferry."Ginny shot an evil glare towards the nurse's station where she could see Lindsay's doctor talking to Nurse Goletz.She privately wondered if, once the man found out Lindsay was anxious to leave the hospital, he'd decided to extend her stay by a day or two out of spite. Of course, her own discharge date had just been decided last night."I'll wait for you at the docks."

Ginny smiled gently."You forget where I've been living the last six months, Lindsay.And even before that you could hardly call my family's station middle-class.I might not have any experience living on the streets, and I do need your help, but I'm no fool."She pushed herself away from the wall and sat down on Lindsay's bed, causing the springs to squeak loudly under her weight and bringing a hint of smoke to Lindsay's nose."I won't stand out on the dock watching the river for two days straight, waiting to be attacked."

"Of course you won't," Lindsay mumbled, embarrassed by her ridiculous assumption.But she couldn't help but feel the surge of relief that flooded through her. She's not an idiot, String Bean. Don't treat her like one."Are you sure?" But she was smiling when she said it.

"Humph."Ginny swatted Lindsay's arm with the back of her hand."Yes, Turnip Green, I'm sure."

Lindsay laughed."That's String Bean to you, missy." Though she secretly hoped she would continue to call her Lindsay.She was doing her best to ignore the woman in the bed across from Ginny, who was watching them again.The prostitute had one leg in traction and was extremely vocal about what she thought of the two young women's relationship.Nosy skank.And the way she stares at LindsayÉ I have half a mind to break her other leg.All these prying eyes on me.On her.Every minute of the day.This place is driving me mad.

"I'll be careful," Ginny assured her as her gaze drifted to Lindsay's ribs."You'll be careful and not tear anymore stitches while I'm gone?And be nice to your pathetic excuse for a doctor?If you don't you'll never get discharged."

"Yes, Mother, I'll try," she grumbled good-naturedly. "But this hospital, and especially Doctor Asshole, is sadly mistaken if it thinks it can hold me here longer than I want to stay."Lindsay hadn't meant to say that last part out loud and when she glanced up into Ginny's face she realized her error.

Ginny eyes widened."Oh, no.No, no, no, no.That doesn't mean you're going to try something crazy, does it?Lindsay-"

"Who me?"Lindsay gave Ginny her best innocent look.But most of the effect was lost when her friend actually snorted out loud.

"Lindsay, I'm serious," Ginny persisted."This island has a prison on it.Do you really think you can just waltz onto a ferry and not have anyone notice?"

Lindsay's face was suddenly transformed by an expression so wicked that Ginny actually shivered.

"MmmmÉ. Miss Chisholm." Lindsay made a clucking noise, but her eyes twinkled."If I'm not mistaken, blasphemy is the ticket straight to you know where."

Ginny narrowed her eyes."Just be careful, please.You still need those stitches to heal."

"You don't have to worry about me, Ginny.You have enough concerns without one more."

Ginny's hands stilled."Why shouldn't I worry?" she snapped, truly worried that Lindsay would hurt herself."There's no one else out there worrying about you, is there?"The words had barely passed her lips and she already regretted them.

Lindsay froze for a second, stunned by the unexpected jab."No," she finally answered, her voice low and dejected."I guess there isn't."

God."I'm so sorry, Lindsay."Ginny closed her eyes, her heart in her throat."I didn't mean toÉ" She sniffed."I only meant that it's no bother worrying about you."When her eyes fluttered open, she used them to beg Lindsay not to be upset."I don't mind, honestly.We're friends, right?Best friends, even?" she asked hopefully.C'mon, please Lindsay, please don't be mad.

The look on Ginny's face tugged at Lindsay's heartstrings and her gaze dropped to delicate lips threatening to tremble.She felt the oddest urge to take Ginny's face in her hands and lean forward andÉ

"Lindsay?" Ginny was beginning to panic, fearing that she'd finally stuck her foot so far inside her own mouth there'd be no retrieving it.She stood up.

Light-brown eyes snapped up to meet Ginny's."No.I mean, yes," she blurted out, clearly confused.She reached out and tugged on Ginny's dress until the younger woman reluctantly sat back down."I meanÉ" Lindsay shook her head as if to clear it.What was the question again? Oh, right. She was apologizing for telling the truth. "It's okay that you said that.You're right.I don't have anyone who cares what happens to meÉ" She clamped her hand over Ginny's open mouth."Except you."Her mouth shaped a lop-sided grin."My friend."

"So you'll go to the church I told you about?"Lindsay set her jaw."And you tell them you're Catholic and fifteen and not a day older?"

"I may not be a very good one, but I am Catholic.I'm almost eighteen and I'm not lying to a nun!"

"Huh, I didn't know you were Catholic." Lindsay's scratched her chin."Chisholm sounds English or something. What makes you not a good-?"

"My stepfather was Irish," she interrupted, "and he insisted that Alice and I convert when he married Mother." Ginny waved an irritated hand and asked defensively, "Do you have something against Catholics?Does it matter?"

Lindsay's face suddenly hardened."Ginny, would you rather sleep outside, alone in the cold?Because that's what you'll be doing."And I won't be there to look out for you. Don't be a fool, girl.

Ginny thought about that and mentally cringed. Forgive me, Father, but I have a feeling I'm going to be doing a lot of sinning in the near future. "I'm fifteen. Got it."She looked away."But after tonight, I'll have the entire day tomorrow to start looking for the kids. I don't think I should just do nothing."

Lindsay knew that the first thing they'd agreed to do when they were released from the hospital was make a trip back to Ginny's tenement.The surviving residents would likely be scattered throughout the same area and one of them might have seen what happened to the Robson children."We'll go back to your building tomorrowÉ together.Okay?"

"When they think I am," Lindsay finished."I'll be fine.You just need to trust me.I need a little time, but I'll be on the morning ferry tomorrow.We'll go to your building together and talk to your neighbors."

Ginny wanted to argue Lindsay out of trying to leave the island early, but one look into resolute eyes told her it would be useless."Thank you," was all she said, but the softly spoken words conveyed more than gratitude.They were laced with affection, and Lindsay found herself willing to do whatever it took to ensure she'd see that particular look more often.

It had taken her nineteen years but the rail-rider finally had a true friend.Lindsay wasn't sure which surprised her more, that it had happened at all or how much she loved it.She still craved quiet and the relative solitude of the tracks and a rhythmically moving boxcar.But she admitted that, even though she wanted those things, they would be just as enjoyable if Ginny were there too.Maybe even more so.

As their time together in the Charity Hospital lengthened, each woman had appointed herself the other's keeper and the staff had been left with little choice but to back off in deference to that simple reality.Except for the dispensing of medication, which was by necessity left to the nurses, Ginny and Lindsay each helped the other with the care of their wounds, bathing, and, when need be, other even more intimate necessaries.

What had, at first, caused each woman to blush hotly, quickly grew routine between them.They felt far more comfortable than with hospital staff, and nurses stopped fighting the inevitable, going so far as to allow the young women to push their beds together at night so they could continue their quiet conversations and not disturb the other patients.

A nurse walked by and glanced at the number etched into the metal post at the foot of Ginny's bed.She picked up her chart and nodded once."You're on the seven a.m. ferry.Come with me."

Lindsay was shocked to find herself pulling Ginny into a quick but gentle hug.When they separated Ginny brushed her lips across Lindsay's cheek as she withdrew."Tomorrow then."

Ginny and the nurse stopped."Umm.. let's trade coats.Yours smells like smoke and I know howÉ"

Ginny's throat closed, but she managed to nod.The smell of smoke on her coat was giving her a headache and irresistibly pulling her thoughts to places she didn't want to go quite yet.

Lindsay reached under her bed and handed Ginny her black woolen jacket."The nurses cleaned off the blooÉ erÉ they cleaned it the first night."

"Thank you."Ginny slipped out of her coat and laid it carefully across Lindsay's bed. Her fingertip grazed Lindsay's foot for just a second before Ginny turned away.

She didn't look back at Lindsay as she strode purposefully down the long hospital bay. With every step, a new and nearly overwhelming feeling of loss that she could neither explain nor even understand threatened to send her to her knees. This wasn't right.She and Lindsay had become a team.You don't split up a team, her mind whispered brokenly.

Lindsay lay back down and stared at the ceiling.A plan formed in her mind and she smiled, biding her time until dark.

When Ginny and three dozen other men and women were finally herded out the hospital's front door, she was greeted with a stiff blast of icy air that smelled like water and tossed her newly shorn hair.She felt naked without a hat and self-consciously turned up the lapels of Lindsay's coat as she boarded one of the wagons heading to the dock.The tattered garment was heavier than hers, and warmer. If not for the slightly long sleeves the fit would be perfect.She burrowed deeply into it and closed her eyes, eagerly accepting what comfort it brought.

At the docks, several milling guards moved over to talk to the nurse who'd escorted the former patients from the hospital.The nurse handed one of the men a folded piece of paper and he efficiently fastened it to a clipboard.

The man nodded, crossed off her name, and began questioning the next patient, all without looking up from his clipboard.The boatload of people was processed in less than five minutes and Ginny took a spot along the back rail.

Her hands ached and the thin, newly grown skin on her palms and fingers quickly numbed in the cold.As the boat traveled, the Charity Hospital began to take shape in the distance, peeking out from above barren treetops.She wondered, would Lindsay really meet her the next day? Or would she forget about the troublesome young woman who had asked far more of a stranger than she'd had any right to expect?Ginny tucked a lock of blowing hair behind a pink ear, her eyes narrowing and drying from the force of the cold wind whisking off the water."That's just it, isn't it, Lindsay?We're not strangers anymore," she whispered.Her thoughts turned inward.I'll be at the docks tomorrow.

Breakfast was being served and the sound of clinking silverware and tin cups rattling against metal trays echoed through the Women's Ward.

Lindsay pushed away the runny, slightly green eggs in disgust.It was nearly 8 a.m. and the ferry would be leaving within the hour.Her heart was already beginning to pound in anticipation.It had taken most of the night, but she'd managed to steal two sets ofclothing from the Men's Ward that she was reasonably sure would fit her and Ginny.Now, they were tucked safely into Ginny's coat, under her bed.

"Hey, slim," the prostitute from across the aisle called out to Lindsay."You don't haftabe blue juss cuz your redhaired friend done left this place." The woman smacked her thick, ruby red lips together and made a kissy-face.Then she adjusted her ample cleavage, valiantly tugging down the rounded-collar of her hospital gown in an effort to show off what she considered to be her best feature.The bed creaked loudly, shaking along with the woman's baritone laugh."Sweet Bertha will keep you company while she's here.Never you worry."

"Shut up, slut.""Disgusting." "Godless trollop," were only a few of the raucous shouts that mixed with not a few catcalls in response to Bertha's invitation to Lindsay.

Dark eyebrows lifted and at that moment Lindsay gave up her valiant but likely suicidal plan to escape the island, which involved stealing a wagon, overpowering the ferry's guards, hijacking it, and piloting it to Manhattan.Long term strategy, she admitted privately, recalling her attempt to recover her flint and $.87, has never been my strong suit.I'm more of a Ôwinging it' sort of gal. She'd nearly decided to chuck it all and swim for it, hoping the current would help her to the other side, when the streetwalker had given her a better, if more revolting solution to her problem.

Lindsay swallowed hard and tried not to think about what she was going to do.Only because I promised you, Ginny."Bertha," she shouted, loud enough for everyone in the ward to hear, "I think I love you!"You disgusting, toothless hag."Why don't I just march over there and give you a big fat kiss to prove it?"

"Ooooo, why don't you, girl?"Bertha's enthusiasm was clear and she chuckled again, low and wicked."And here I thought you were ignoring me for that sweet-looking little girl who left yesterday.I shoulda known nobody in they right mind would have calf when they could have a fine, aged steak."

The room filled with startled gasps and sniggers and Lindsay was sure she would never eat beef again.

Bertha's coal-black eyes started at the top of Lindsay's head and worked their way down to her chest.Where they stayed."Mmm mmm! You shore is fine for a skinny thing. C'mon to mama now." Her voice turned playfully scolding when Lindsay failed to immediately jump out of bed."Lawdy, lawdy!Don't you make Bertha wait another minute for her kiss. C'mon!"

Out of the corner of her eye, Lindsay could see Nurse Goletz and her doctor rushing down the aisle, their eyes wide.Heh.She threw off her sheet and pushed herself to her feet, giving Bertha her best sultry look. The one she usually reserved for that special moment just before kicking some asshole guy in the balls.

Bertha's smile grew so large that Lindsay could have sworn she saw a tooth.She sat down on the fat woman's bed and Bertha gleefully, but with surprising gentleness, wrapped two meaty arms around Lindsay's waist and pulled the younger woman into her lap, unhampered by the leg she had in traction."OoooÉ You feel stronger than you look," Bertha exclaimed in delight.

Lindsay wondered if the woman might actually start to drool, and she warred with the urge to knock away Bertha's possessive hands.The pungent scent of body odor caused her stomach to lurch.I can do this. Oh, God, but can I do it without puking?

"Don't you never mind, Mizzz Nurse." Bertha dismissed Nurse Goletz without even a glance in her direction."This girl is my bizness.Not yours." She tightened her grip on Lindsay and the younger woman stifled a hiss, feeling a tiny trickle of warm blood flow from her incision.Shit.There go my stitches again.

The nurse's grizzled eyebrows drew together.She knew for a fact that Bertha had been a thorn in String Bean's backside for days."What's going on here, String Bean?"

"If my behavior is a problem, then perhaps I should be discharged?Immediately," Lindsay concluded sassily, her eyes narrowing at the doctor who had finally made it to Bertha's bedside and was huffing and sweating from the exertion.

Nurse Goletz glared at Lindsay, hoping the young woman would realize the error of her ways before it was too late.String Bean, I don't think you realize that you'replaying with fire.

Lindsay lifted her chin."Now if you don't mind, I promised Bertha a big..." She paused between each adjective for effect. "...fat, juicy, wet, heart-stopping kiss.On the mouth."

There were more gasps and the doctor's face turned beet-red as he recognized Lindsay. She sounded less nasal now the splint from her nose was gone, and she looked different now that the lurid purple bruises had faded to yellow. But this was definitely the same woman. "You're the vile woman that called me an a-aÉ" He intentionally bit his tongue.

"What did my String Bean call you?" Bertha asked cheerfully, refusing to relinquish her grip on her prize. "I'll bet it involved cursing. Or something about that big, block head on your shoulders." Which was fine with her.She didn't like that rude doctor, anyway. Couldn't he see that she and String Bean were busy?An idea flashed through her mind and just to spite him, and, well, because she thought it would be fun, she latched on to Lindsay's neck with massive lips and sucked for all she was worth.

Jesus!Instinctively, Lindsay opened her mouth to scream bloody murder, but managed to clamp down on the impulse just in time.Her eyes widened and her gaze flicked to the floor.She was surprised not to see eyeballs rolling around on the wooden floor.

Lindsay's stomach threatened to rebel again and she could feel her body breaking out in a nervous sweat.

The doctor's right eye began to twitch, a testament to his budding anger.He tore his spectacles from his face with a slightly trembling hand and tucked them safely in to the pocket of his long, white coat."Are you enjoying making a perverted spectacle of yourself with thisÉthis hussy?"

Bertha removed her lips with a loud popping sound.She proudly examined the magnificent hickey for a moment before turning grumpy eyes on the doctor."I prefers strumpet, if you please." She grinned. "Sounds fancy, maybe even French."

The man visibly grabbed hold of his emotions and a cool, professional mask dropped over his face.His hand stopped shaking and his twitching eye righted itself."I wasn't talking to you, Bertha."The voluptuous prostitute had a violent pimp and worse husband.She was a regular at the Women's Ward.

Nurse Goltez went into damage control mode."Doctor," she began hesitantly, using her most calming voice, "I'm sure this isn't what it appears. I-"

"Oh, yes it is," Lindsay corrected forcefully, her gaze never leaving the doctor's."I'm sure you don't want myÉ" she paused, "influence in your hospital ward.I can be on the next ferry."

"Things wuz just getting' good," Bertha wailed, locking her thick fingers behind Lindsay's back.

The doctor nodded slowly, offering a hand to Lindsay as the young woman pried herself away from Bertha.Lindsay took the hand warily, but allowed the man to help her to her feet."You're right," he paused and glanced at Nurse Goletz in question.

The doctor scowled.These indigents showed little regard for him or this charitable institution. Their impudence was nearly as appalling as their hygiene."You're right, String Bean.I don't believe this hospital ward is the proper place for you."

"Well." Lindsay smiled in surprise.That wasn't hard.And I didn't vomit.But damn, do I need some fresh air.I can't wait to get outside."I'll just gather my things then.No use in waiting for tomorrow's ferry when I can leave now." She padded over to her bunk and pulled Ginny's coat from beneath it, careful not to allow the stolen clothes to be seen.Her feet were near frozen and she slipped them into her shoes, confident that the wide-legged trousers she'd stolen would fit over them.

"I'm having you committed to the asylum right here on the island for treatment," the doctor announced.

Lindsay froze.Her mouth dropped open and she stared at the doctor, wondering if he was truly serious or merely trying to frighten her.Her heart began to pound and a jolt of fear rushed through her veins."WhÉwhat?" she finally spluttered.

"You're clearly operating under a psychological malady, MissÉ errÉ String Bean.Homo-erotic contact is akin to self-gratification in its propensity to devolve into full-blown insanity, rather than remaining the quite treatable mental dysfunction than it is." The doctor's eyes softened and he laid a sympathetic hand on Lindsay's shoulder. No wonder she had hurled profanities at him.She was deranged."Bertha performs debasing, unnatural acts for profit.As I don't think you're a prostitute, it is clearly in your basic make-up to act this way.We can change that," he assured her solemnly.

The blood drained from Lindsay's face.She hadn't heard a word since committed and asylum.

"Huh?" Bertha cocked her head to the side and scrunched up her face."I don't know what all that man is talking 'bout.But if that Ôself-grab-ification' is what I think it is, I charge extras for that."

Lindsay cursed inwardly, wishing she'd just hijacked the boat.The asylum all because I was going to kiss Bertha?True, no one in her right mind would do thatÉ. But stillÉ

"Doctor, as you've said before, confinement in cases like this is such a drain on resources," the nurse reminded him gently. "I think it's a real possibility that String Bean is intentionally trying to get tossed into the asylum so she doesn't have to work.

"HmmÉ" The doctor rubbed his chin as he glanced at Lindsay with a clinical eye.Was she that devious?It wouldn't be the first time someone tried to pull the wool over the State of New York's collective eye.

"Prank?" the man scoffed at the nurse."I think not. After all, would you, a woman clearly in her right mind, tease in such a revolting manner?"

Hazel eyes went round."UhhhÉWell, no, butÉ" The heavy-set woman reached out and wrapped her fingers around Lindsay's lean biceps."I'll get everything ready for the transfer, doctor.I shouldn't have questioned.I am truly sorry, doctor.I'll await your discharge orders and notify the orderlies of the upcoming transfer."

"Fine. Fine."He puffed up his chest a little and nodded, enormously pleased with his diagnosis. "Carry on, Nurse Goletz."

Lindsay watched in horror as the man turned on his heels and disappeared through the exit.She flicked a panicky gaze at the nurse.I don't want to hurt her.ButÉ "I hate to break this to you, but I am not-"

"I know you're not, you troublemaker." She let go of one of Lindsay's arms and captured Ginny's coat with a quick sweep of her hand. The stolen men's clothing came tumbling out."Ugh." She rolled her eyes. "I knew I should have gotten you on that ferry with Ginny."She began tugging Lindsay towards the nursing station.

"I'm trying to help you, you fool," the nurse hissed under her breath.She leaned closer to Lindsay and she shook her by the shoulders, making it look like the young woman was giving her nothing but trouble and was receiving a firm dressing down because of it. Quickly, she pressed her lips to Lindsay's ear."Grab Bertha's dress on the way out."

"Just do it or I'll let them commit you!" the older woman ground out from between clenched teeth.Then she straightened and her mouth shaped a smug smile."Now that we have an understandingÉ" Haughtily, she adjusted her apron and turned her back on Lindsay."Follow me." Without another word, she began marching down the aisle.

She's helping me?Can I trust her?A mental groan.Do I really have a choice?Then the rail-rider made her first truly good decision and did exactly what Nurse Goletz told her.Lindsay snatched up the stolen clothing from the floor, took a few paces anddropped the shirt when she drew even with Bertha's bunk.A virulent curse escaped her lips, which is what everyone would have expected.And when she bent to retrieve the shirt, she scooped up Bertha's hideous, purple, floral print dress along with it, seriously hoping Nurse Goletz didn't expect it to come close to her bare skin.

"Bye, bye, sweet thang," Bertha crowed as Lindsay disappeared down the aisle."You come back and visit Bertha, you hear?"

Lindsay was shoved into a supply closet and before she could protest, Nurse Goletz slammed the door shut and held up a single, authoritative finger."Uh huh.Not a single word, String Bean.I meant what I said, I'll let them commit you."

"I'm not going to the asylum and anyone who tries to put me there will truly regret it."

The nurse looked into brown eyes that had gone nearly black with fear and anger.Lindsay's pounding pulse was visible against the pale skin of her throat and for a split second the heavy-set woman was sure she could actually smell danger.In her heart, she believed that String Bean, when pushed, could be a very dangerous person."I don't doubt you for a second.That's why I'm helping you."The nurse cracked a small smile, hoping to diffuse the tension in the small room."As much as I believe the doctor is a pompous ass, he truly believes he's helping the patients here.I'd prefer not to see him killedÉ" A beat."At least not on my shift."

Lindsay couldn't help it.A tiny grin appeared and her tightly coiled body relaxed enough for her to let out a shaky breath.

"It'll be okay."Nurse Goletz jutted her chin towards the dress that was tangled with the stolen clothes and still clutched in String Bean's hands."Put that on."

"No, the dress."The nurse reached into her apron and pulled out a small compact."And you'll need to wear some of this too."

Lindsay's wide eyes darted back and forth between the enormous, tacky, lavender dress and the compact of rouge."The hell I will," she roared.

The breeze blew a lock of Lindsay's hair into her mouth and she straightened from her place along the ferry's railing.Ginny's coat was thinner than hers and she fumbled with the top button, scarcely able to believe she'd made it. As Nurse Goletz had predicted, however, telling the ferry guards that she was a Ôspecial' friend of Warden Simmons was enough to get her passage on the ferry back to Queens without question.Apparently, the warden had a taste for young prostitutes, and a veritable parade of them came and went on the island.

Lindsay winced.The ribs they'd had to cut in order to remove her spleen were still incredibly tender, as was the still-healing incision.But now that she was safe, and out in the cold, fresh air, she felt as if she could breathe.A wave of relief then lethargy swept over her, and she longed to find a nice, lonely boxcar somewhere, curl up, and fall fast asleep.But, her mind wearily reminded her, now isn't the time for that.

As the ferry chugged closer to shore, Lindsay relentlessly scanned the docks.The boat was a half hour late, but surely Ginny would have waited.When realization finally dawned on Lindsay, its power was enough to send her sliding down the ferry wall, to the floor.There wasn't a single soul waiting on the docks.Not one.Maybe she found the kids right off.

Yeah.Lindsay sighed.That must be it.Her expression hardened a little and she turned unseeing eyes back towards the murky river.Not that I can blame her for not coming on any account. She doesn't really know me.And who the hell is she to waste my time? Now that this little adventure is over, I can get on with my own life and give up on playing the Good Samaritan. I have far better things to do.Pockets to pick.Places to go.Things to see.But she couldn't make herself believe the words and she felt her heart sink."I can't believe I did all this for nothing." She chuckled bitterly and rose to her feet."How stupid am I?"

"You say something to me, ma'am?" one of the ferry workers asked, sidling up to her.His skin was the color of dark chocolate and his eyes glinted with genuine curiosity as he waited politely for her answer."You look cold.We have blankets inside.Would you like one?" he asked eagerly.

He couldn't, Lindsay figured, be more than thirteen, though he was tall and well built. "Is this your first day?" she inquired kindly.Either he was too na•ve to know that Lindsay was supposed to be made up as a prostitute or too well-mannered to treat her badly because of it.

"Yes, ma'am."He smiled brightly, already thinking ahead to getting paid and bringing home food bought with his very own money.Suddenly, he looked a little worried. "Is there something wrong?"

"No."Lindsay smiled gently, melancholy stealing over her."You're doing great. And I already have everything I need." Which is nothing at all.

The boy shrugged then pushed himself away from the rail, off to untie the dock ropes.

She disembarked in silence as the twenty or so men and woman scattered across the docks, all seemingly with someplace better to be.She told herself to just leave, that now she was being a fool.But her heart wasn't quite ready to say goodbye to the only friend she'd ever had.She tucked her hands into her pockets and walked a short way down each of the streets that dead-ended at the docks, half of her expecting to see Ginny, the other half knowing she wouldn't.

Lindsay made her way back to the river and stopped alongside the boat.Her eyes fluttered shut and she cocked her head and listened, longing to hear the lonely whistle of a train and be well away from the noisy, crowded, stinking city.

With several quick strides she was back on the gangway, calling out to the boy who had spoken to her earlier.

The young man was untying the ropes, preparing the boat for the journey back to the island.

His head popped up from his task and he moved to the railing, sliding a little on the deck's icy surface.

The boy's forehead creased and he took off his hat and wiped the sweat from his brow."No, ma'am.This is Manhattan."

Lindsay whirled around at the sound of Ginny's soft, pain-tinged voice.The redhead's clothes were wrinkled and she was shivering a little.Dark circles ringed tired, pale eyes and her hair was disheveled from the wind.But there she was.Just as she promised she would be.Lindsay searched her mind for something to say but the words wouldn't come.

To her profound relief, Ginny didn't let the awkward silence between them grow.She simply pulled Lindsay into a full body hug and whispered into her ear, "I'm so glad you're here.I was worried sick you'd do something crazy to get discharged early."

Lindsay melted into the embrace, happy beyond reason that at least one of them had the good sense to have faith in the other.She would, she swore to herself, do better next time.The younger woman's heart was hammering and Lindsay could feel it through their woolen coats.She pressed her wind-burned cheek against Ginny's and hugged her tighter.

After a long moment, Ginny extended her arms and looked at her friend.Her eyes lit on her neck and she gasped. Anger then confusion flickered in blue eyes for just a second, before the storm cleared.Her mouth opened and closed several times without a sound.An "Oh, my God," finally burst free."That is the largest hickey I have ever seen!"

Ginny shook her head as if to dispel the image that she knew would be forever burned into her brain."What on earth were you doing while I was gone?"She didn't give Lindsay a chance to explain as her thoughts tumbled directly from her brain and out of her mouth."Is that makeup?Lots of makeup?" She wrinkled her nose in disgust."You look like a totalÉWell, like a strumpet!"

Lindsay grinned, perversely pleased with Ginny's honest assessment and especially the earlier blasphemy.She's right, she laughed to herself.She's not a very good Catholic girl.Until that moment, String Bean hadn't realized exactly how much she missed Ginny and how damn glad she was to see her.

Then Ginny noticed the back of the colored collar beneath Lindsay's coat and without preamble she unbuttoned it and plucked at the horrendous, enormous, low cut dress.Her gaze traveled down to her own gray, shapeless dress that she firmly believed had beenmade by blind prisoners with two left hands.And no thumbs. "I'm gone for one day and you become not only a strumpet but one with vile taste in clothing?" she asked incredulously, glancing up at Lindsay with shocked eyes.

"You'll explain later."It wasn't a question.Ginny exhaled explosively as she wrapped an arm around one of Lindsay's and led her away from the river."See what happens when I leave you alone for a second?"

Lindsay snorted and gently ruffled her friend's hair."I have a feeling that New York City has more to worry about with us together than it ever did with us apart."Russet-brown eyes glinted in the morning sun."Let's go get your family back, Ginny."

Ginny's throat closed and she mindlessly pulled Lindsay to her again, renewing the embrace she hadn't really wanted to end in the first place.Nothing need be said that couldn't be expressed in that simple, heartfelt gesture, and when slender, strong arms wrapped themselves tightly around Ginny, they felt so good it hurt.

Some days were longer than others, and some moments necessarily sweeter.And for the first time in her short and sometimes brutal life, Lindsay Killian took a moment to savor the sweetness.

It was twilight, that ethereal time when the sky was more purple than blue or black or gray, and New York City's streetlights began bathing the city in a subdued, golden glow.

Fog collected around the glass sconces as they warmed, and lit torches or lanterns appeared on each wagon that rolled along Queen's 36^th Avenue.They were still close enough to the docks to smell the water of the East River and hear the blare of horns as boats approached shore.

Lindsay looked over her shoulder for the umpteenth time, watching as Ginny plodded sullenly through the thick, wet snow, a small sack, containing the men's clothing she had refused to wear and two thin blankets, slung over her shoulder.Lindsay sighed but remained silent, unable to think of anything to say.In truth, she felt lousy herself.It had been another day of dead ends, endless searching, and abject failure.

Ginny was beginning to lose faith and what little optimism Lindsay had had on her friend's behalf had all but evaporated along with their ideas of where to continue looking.

It was as though the Robson children had vanished from the face of the earth.The young women had tried Ginny's neighbors, local hospitals, churches, the fire brigade and police, and several state offices, all to no avail.At one of the firemen's suggestion, they were now down to visiting homeless shelters and orphanages one by one.And they'd already been to a half dozen of those.A few were so cramped and filthy that tears had welled in Ginny's eyes at the sight.She was torn between praying that her siblings weren't living in such depressing squalor and praying that they were.

Lindsay and Ginny had left the island of Manhattan earlier in the day, after a last minute stop at a Catholic church not far from Ginny's burnt-out tenement.The old priest had never laid eyes on Ginny before, and Lindsay got an even better understanding of what Ginny had meant when she said she wasn't a very good Catholic.Apparently, actually attending mass wasn't a requirement.

Lindsay squirmed in the high-ceilinged sanctuary, feeling the weight of the statues' stares upon her and hearing their mocking whispers telling her that she didn't belong. Her mind flashed to her father's funeral, the low chanted prayers, the whine of an out of tune organ, and the smell of incense.She thought she might be sick.

The priest had generously offered them a place to spend the night, but, much to Lindsay's astonishment, Ginny had taken one look at Lindsay's pale face and refused the offer, explaining instead that they needed to leave the island so they could start their searching across the river.Actually getting across proved more of challenge than Lindsay had anticipated. It had taken three attempts on three different ferries, with Ginny getting caught every single time but managing to talk her way out of being arrested, before they both successfully secured free passage.

On more than one occasion, Ginny eyed Lindsay's trousers enviously, thinking that those covered, lean legs had to be warmer than hers.As she'd reminded Lindsay, however, she needed to appear respectable, or at least as close as she could manage, when she went looking for the children. Dressing as a man would only complicate things.

The bottom of Ginny's dress was soaking wet and her cheeks were flushed pink from the chill in the air.Large snowflakes continued to drift to the ground, piling up quickly and collecting haphazardly in soft red hair.She stared at her feet as she walked, only glancing up when she needed to step aside for some passerby.Her throat was nearly back to normal, and, if she didn't overuse her voice, she could almost forget that it had ever been burned. Her hands, however, were another story.They alternated between aching, itching, and going totally numb in the frosty January air.She idly wished for a pair of gloves but settled for tucking her hands under her armpits as she walked.

Lindsay couldn't take it anymore.Funny, she thought, I used to go days without a single word and now I'm racking my brains for somethingÉ anything to say to her.She slowed her long steps until Ginny drew even with her."How are you doing?"

Ginny had grown so accustomed to the quiet that her head snapped sideways in surprise at Lindsay's words."I'm sorry.What?"

"How are you doing?" Lindsay repeated, her worry taking the form of a tiny wrinkle on the bridge of her nose.

"Oh."I'm hungry, cold, tired, and scared to death for my family."I'm fine. You?"

ÉAre someone who knows better."I'm fine, too."She looked hard at Ginny's face, for the first time noticing how much weight the redhead had shed in the past couple of weeks."Ready for something to eat?"

Lindsay laughed."I know what you mean."She let her nose guide them three doors down to a bakery/delicatessen."This way."

Ginny all but pressed her face against the glass and drooled."MmmÉ I dunno, Lindsay," she mumbled doubtfully, her stomach growling despite her words.Displayed in neat rows were sliced meats and cheeses, along with loaves of crusty white and black breads braided into integrate designs."It looks expensive."

"We have to eat," Lindsay reminded her gently. "And the prices are exactly what you'll find all over the city.No more, I promise."While changing out of Bertha's dress, Lindsay had found a forgotten $5.00 tucked deeply into the pocket of Ginny's coat.It was the younger woman's last wages from her job as a feather ripper. But much to Lindsay's disdain, Ginny was doling out the cash as frugally as a miser.

Lindsay clasped Ginny's shoulder with one hand and deftly removed the cloth sack with her other."My turn."She followed Ginny's line of sight through the frosted window and licked her lips."We don't have to use your money.I know you want to save that until you find your sister and brothers.But the nearest soup kitchen is at least four miles and by the time we get there it'll all be gone.I can-"

Both heads turned and flashing eyes met.Lindsay stiffened in reaction but couldn't disagree, knowing in her heart that, though she had simply planned on offering to shovel the sidewalk in front of the bakery, she was more than capable of stealing the money.

It was Ginny who looked away first."I'm sorry." She rubbed her temples."I'm so tired and hungry I'm not thinking straight."She sighed and her voice dropped to a whisper."Forgive me, please?"

Lindsay quickly nodded mutely, her tongue tied in knots in the wake of the heartfelt plea.She wrapped her arm around Ginny's shoulder and the younger woman ignored it, moving in for a hug instead.

Nothing felt as good as this and Ginny was drawn to it as helplessly as a moth to a flame. "They couldn't have just disappeared," she whispered in anguish, her lips near Lindsay's ear."Where are they, Lindsay?"

The cheek pressed tightly to hers felt cold and wet, and Lindsay's heart clenched as Ginny spoke."IÉI don't know.But we won't give up," she promised quietly, closing her eyes against the sensation of their warm bodies pressed tightly together.We haven't touched since that day at the docks, her mind whispered.Why does this feel so damn good?

"MmmÉ You're warm," Ginny muttered absently, smiling when she felt Lindsay's cheek grow hotter with her words.She pulled away, offering Lindsay a weak smile."I'm used to spending all day on my feet, but I feel like we've walked a hundred miles in the last few days."

"My sore legs couldn't agree more," Lindsay said self-consciously, very aware of how her cheek tingled from Ginny's touch.Uncomfortable, she took a step away from her friend and slid off the cap she'd "found" the day before.She slapped it against her thigh to remove the snow, then gently wiped the accumulated snowflakes from the top of Ginny's head with slightly shaking fingers.

The unexpected intimacy of the gesture caused Ginny to flush again and she looked away, feelings of confusion mingling with a wistful sense of longing.

Lindsay sighed, assuming Ginny was still upset with her."You don't have to keep apologizing for the truth."The dark-haired woman squared her shoulders. She already knows you're a no-good thief. Don't hold back now. It'll just come up again later. "Ginny, I'm a pickpocket when I need to be, and sometimes just when I'm too lazy to be anything else," she informed her in a startling moment of self-awareness and honesty.She steeled herself against Ginny's reaction."I'm a bloke buzzer, mind you."

"Ah." She nodded thoughtfully, not sure if that revelation was merely informational or somehow meant to make her feel better about the situation."I see."Ginny moved a step, shifting out of the way of an oncoming trio of men.When the men were out of earshot she spoke again."I do need to apologize, Lindsay.For some reason when I'm around you my foot spends more time in my mouth than on the ground."A small grin twitched her lips before she took on a more serious expression."I don't have any right at all to judge you.We all do what we need to survive.I need to grow up and accept that. And you're the least lazy person I've ever met."

"Please," Ginny bit her lower lip, "just don't steal for me.I'm not sanctimonious enough to pretend I don't want you to do anything in your power to help me find my family.But not just for me, Lindsay.Not if there's any other choice at all."

"No, you can promise."She reached out and wrapped fingers covered with tattered bandages around Lindsay's."The question is, will you?"

"All right," Lindsay heard herself say, as though someone else entirely was in control of her mouth.Shit!I wasn't going to do that!

Ginny smiled a genuine smile, one that showed off rarely seen dimples and made her eyes light up."C'mon.Let's go inside and buy something hot and filling.If I eat, I won't be so such an evil hag." She smiled ruefully. "And I know I have been.Besides, I'm freezing and if we eat slowly I might just thaw out before we have to come back out into the cold."

Lindsay grinned affectionately and opened the door.She had already learned it rarely paid to argue with Virginia Chisholm.As the door was pushed open, the clanging of a small bell heralded their entrance and the yeasty scent of fresh-baked bread and spicy meat wafted out onto the street.Each woman groaned with undisguised pleasure.Apologies, admissions, and promises were filed away for safe keeping as they bolted through the door.

Ginny sat at a small table just inside the bakery door, drinking a cup of steaming black coffee. Between them, they'd consumed a foot-long roast beef sandwich, an enormous kosher pickle that made Lindsay's face scrunch up in an expression Ginny decided was nothing short of adorable, and two large bowls of hearty vegetable noodle soup.

She was pleasantly stuffed, and Ginny closed her eyes tiredly, deciding not to think about tomorrow until it came. They still had to deal with tonight.When had the days grown so long and so cold? Long before this, was the answer.Ever since her mother married Arthur even, and his constant battle with the bottle and ridiculous get-rich-quick schemes led to her already struggling family's gradual financial ruin.

Ginny loved her mother and had long ago reconciled herself to her mother's choice of Arthur, a good-natured dreamer with a heart of gold and a head of wood. She even loved Arthur, who was a kind stepfather whose life was ruled more by scotch whiskey and dreams of wealth than by what was best for his family.What she couldn't get past was that her parents had taken Alice and Helen's life along with their own.

"What are you thinking," Lindsay asked curiously, noting the look of quiet speculation and anger on Ginny's face.

For a split second Ginny was tempted to say nothing.But she was too tired to hold it inside."I'm thinking about how angry I am with my parents for letting the fireÉ" She swallowed, feeling a lump in her throat."For letting the fire claim Alice and Helen."Her eyes lifted and met Lindsay's and in that instant she could see that her friend ached for her as though the pain was her own.She reached out for Lindsay's hand, squeezing it to show her thanks when words seemed inadequate.

"Why, Lindsay?" she continued as her anger bubbling to the surface."Why didn't Alice come with me?She was always stronger, smarter, faster. She could have made it!Why didn't Mama send them out of the building when she had the chance?"

"Oh, Ginny." Lindsay shook her head sadly, wondering what exactly it was in people that forever compelled them to try and make sense out of the senseless.She got up from her seat across from Ginny and sat down alongside her."I'm sure she tried to get out.She was your big sister, right?She wouldn't have left you all alone to deal with all this if she'd had any other choice."I wouldn't have.

But Ginny's rational mind wasn't ready to accept that yet."If she had, she'd be alive now!"

Ginny's eyes darted back and forth as her mind raced.Something could have made this all turn out differently.Her heart twisted in her chest.Or someone."I shouldn't have listened.If I'd only stayed to help, maybe I could-"

The clerk looked up from her work but Lindsay lifted her hand, acknowledging that, despite appearances to the contrary, everything was all right.

Now it was Lindsay's turn to lose her temper.She leaned forward and lowered her voice, speaking with an almost savage intensity."For Christ's sake, listen to what you're saying.If you'd stayed, you probably be dead too.You said yourself that no one made it out of the building after you did.You couldn't have done anything else that night other than stay behind and die."Believe what I'm saying, she willed the younger woman.

"I know. I know," Ginny whispered, squeezing her eyes tightly shut.Her anger melted away as suddenly as it had flared.She felt like a wrung-out dishcloth. "It's not fair.They had their entire lives ahead of them, Lindsay."

Ginny gave her a watery grin."I guess I do." A thoughtful pause."What would I have done without you these past weeks?It makes me sick to even think of it."

And that caught Lindsay so flat-footed that her mouth worked for several seconds but she couldn't manage a single sound.

"Don't be embarrassed," Ginny insisted in a low voice, not quite able to meet Lindsay's flabbergasted stare."I don't expect you to say anything.IÉ well, I just wanted you to know."Her eyes lifted to meet Lindsay's and she could see that she was making her uncomfortable.She smiled what she hoped was a reassuring smile and bumped shoulders with Lindsay. "Go on.Go see if they have some day-old bread or something they'd be willing to part with.We can save it for breakfast." She gestured with her chin towards the clerk, who was working diligently slicing a large slab of ham.

"AhhÉ Ginny." Lindsay let out a shaky breath."YouÉ well, it hasn't been any trouble or anything.I-"

"It's okay," Ginny assured her. "Really.Now go be charming and get us some breakfast."

Lindsay's eyebrows shot skywards and her mouth curled into a wry grin."Have you ever seen me be charming?" she asked bluntly.

Ginny laughed, her spirits rising merely from the expression on Lindsay's face."WellÉ I have faith in you."

"Well, then, stand back." Lindsay wiped an imaginary piece of lint from the front of her dark woolen coat.Then she smoothed her lapels with exaggerated care."I have people to influence."

Ginny watched fondly as Lindsay strolled up to the counter and leaned against the glass, then casually struck up a conversation with the clerk.Her friend was probably the least charming person she'd ever known. Ginny still found Lindsay brash, crude, and impatient.But she also found LindsayÉ she didn't know exactly what. Captivating, maybe.Or perhaps compelling.There was simply something indefinable about her that made Ginny want to stare into those pretty brown eyes and get lost.The mere thought made her stomach flop and she sighed, giving up on any form of introspection tonight.She was just too tired.

The wind had begun to howl and the snow had turned to sleet.Ginny could see a layer of ice forming on the metal lamppost across the street.God, being outside is not going to be fun.For the last few nights they'd managed to avoid sleeping outside, always finding a church or shelter willing to let them curl up on the floor somewhere.Please let us be that lucky tonight.

Light blue eyes flicked sideways at the sound of Lindsay's voice.Next to her stood the clerk.Lindsay had a strange look on her face and Ginny quickly pushed herself to her feet."What's wrong?What is it?"

"Nothing. Nothing," Lindsay promised her quickly."I just thought you should hear this."She turned to the clerk."Ester, can you tell my friend here what you told me?"

The middle-aged woman nodded dumbly, her confusion evident from the scowl on her face.

Ginny shot Lindsay a meaningful look that said Ôyou brought her over here to tell me that?'

Lindsay shifted impatiently from one foot to the other."Tell her why you can't."

Ginny looked expectantly at Ester, who wiped her greasy fingers on her stained white apron.

Lindsay rubbed her temples."Tell her more about the charity, Ester. Everything you told me."

"Fine." The woman shrugged again, not minding being out from behind the counter for a change."The charity we give it to is an orphanage.It's where we got our little Mildred."

"Wait," Lindsay interrupted."There's more.But for God's sake, I'll tell you so I don't explode.Ester tells me this orphanage is in more need than ever after taking in a few childrenÉ sudden like."

The redhead's jaw sagged."That has to be them!" she crowed, grabbing a startled Ester and hugging her for all she was worth."Thank you."

"UmmÉ" Ester blinked and pried herself lose from Ginny's embrace, slowly backing towards the counter and away from the crazy person. "No problem."

"Can you tell us the address of the orphanage?"Ginny was already buttoning her coat.

Ester shook her head. "Never was good with addresses.But if you come back tomorrowjust after sunrise, you can go with my husband."

"I don't want to wait."Ginny grabbed Lindsay's hand and began tugging her towards the door. "Can you just tell us what street?Which way to go?"

"Won't do you any good, honey," Ester told her."The caretaker, a sweetheart of a man, closes the place up tighter than a drum once the sun goes down.Won't even answer the door." She nodded approvingly."That's one way to keep some of the ruffians in line. A strict curfew and locked doors."

Ginny's entire body slumped and Lindsay couldn't help but curl her arm around those sagging shoulders."Tomorrow.We'll go tomorrow.If they're there now, they'll still be there then."

Ginny took several calming breaths, desperately trying to grab hold of her scattered emotions, which were making her head spin and tempting her to do something crazy like run outside and stop every person in the street until someone told her exactly where the orphanage was."Right.I can be patient." She looked a little lost."I hope."

"Besides..." Lindsay's face took on grim expression as she glanced back out the window.It was raining ice."We don't want to be wandering the streets out in this weather."She leaned close to Ginny's ear and whispered, "You'll need to be rested for them.Tomorrow will be soon enough."Don't get your hopes up too high, Ginny.

Ginny sighed and straightened, deciding it couldn't hurt to hope for the best and ignore the worst.That had never worked before in her life. But somehow she always managed to dredge up the optimism to try just one more time."Thank you for thinking about them. You're right.I need to rest.They'll run me ragged for the rest of my life." Relief flooded her as she let the very real possibility of being reunited with her siblings roll around in her mind.She gently patted Lindsay's lower back and then strode over to the counter."Ester," she began hopefully, "how would you feel about a couple of boarders here in the store for the night?"She jerked her thumb sideways and smiled."I'm betting that my friend here wields a mean broom."

"I ca-caÉcan't believe sh-she said no," Ginny complained again, ducking her head to avoid the sting of the sleet."Not ju-just no.But hell no." Her teeth were chattering so hard that she was getting a headache and she'd already accidentally bitten her tongue.Twice.Lamplight reflected off the sheen of ice covering her coat and hair, and every breath released a haze of fog that was instantly swept away by the wind.She could smell the water again and knew they'd somehow looped around towards the river during their trek.

Lindsay snorted.Her cheeks were bright red, and frosty air made her eyes feel dry and scratchy. "Would you let two strangers sleep in your shop?"

"What was that?"Ginny stuffed her hands deeper into her pockets as they turned a corner and found themselves on the edge of a railroad yard.No, her mind corrected, a railroad graveyard.

"Where is Ôhere'?" Ginny squinted through the rain.Torn up tracks were piled haphazardly and crisscrossed the area, which was surrounded by a tall wire fence.Engine parts, oiled wooden planks, and rusted steel boxcars dotted the snow-covered ground, their doors either missing altogether or partially opened.If she looked hard, Ginny thought could see smoke rising from the openings of several of the metal boxes.She shivered.

Ginny eyed the obstacle before them."The fence-?" She hadn't even finished her thought when Lindsay grabbed hold of the wire mesh and gave it a strong pull, exposing an undetected slit in the fencing.

"I'll hold this for you."Lindsay shook her head to clear the sleet from her eyes.She was soaked to the bone and the bandages that held the splint on her fingers were a sodden mess.

"Okay.Thanks." Ginny ducked down and grunted a little as she shimmied through the opening. "I think I can makeÉ Uh oh."Her coat caught on a sharp barb of wire and she awkwardly tried to free herself, her brain sending urgent message to fingers that were far to cold to respond quickly.With a sharp jerk, she ripped a small tear in her coat."Crap."

Lindsay stepped through behind Ginny, tucking under her arm the sack containingBertha's dress, the clothes that Lindsay stole from the hospital for Ginny, and a few things they'd purchased after leaving the delicatessen.She allowed the fence to fall back into place with a clank, smothering a groan at the pain the twisting had caused her ribs.

"All right."Lindsay moved directly in front of Ginny and looked her squarely in the eye."You need to listen to me and do what I say."

A single red eyebrow inched upward but Ginny's natural survival instinct kicked in and she simply nodded.Anything to be out of the weather.At least I hope we're getting out of the weather.

"Don't look at anyone as you walk.Keep facing straight ahead. If anyone comes near you, you run. And come right out at this spot.You're smaller than most men here and should be able to get through the fence quickly."

"For fuck's sake, Ginny!Please," Lindsay exclaimed, then looked around self-consciously, hoping nobody had heard. "I'll explain in a minute, but I'm freezing to death now and I don't have the energy to argue."

"Don't swear at me.And I wasn't going to argue," Ginny answered peevishly."I was going to ask if I should even ignore you."

"Oh." Lindsay brought her shaking fingers to her mouth and blew warm air on them. She bounced on her toes a bit in an effort to send blood to her frigid limbs."Sorry."Her face was properly contrite and then her lips curled into a wry smile. "Don't ignore me. I hate to be ignored."

Ginny's smile was playfully sarcastic."I noticed."She glanced around again, this time worriedly. These were the kinds of places her mother had always told her to walk quickly past, where strangers lurked in the shadows.But, she admitted, it wasn't nearly as bad as it would be alone.She had faith that Lindsay would be able to handle, and help her handle, anything that came up. Ginny was so caught up in her own thoughts that she started when Lindsay reached out and grabbed her hand.

They moved quickly, avoiding the broken bottles and scattered crates that were strewn over partial pieces of track and broken railroad ties.The sleet suddenly changed to snow and the flakes instantly stuck to their wet coats and faces.About halfway across the yard the shouting started: disembodied voices that came from different boxcars and could be clearly heard above the roaring wind.

"OooÉ hey, girly, that's a pretty dress.Come over here by me and keep me warm. It's warm in my box.Yours too, I'll bet."

Ginny couldn't help it, even though Lindsay's stride hadn't as much as slowed; she turned her head towards the voice.

"Must be.String Bean?I heard you was dead.You got more lives than a damn alley cat!Those biting rats improve your looks any?"

Her looks?What's that supposed to mean?Ginny felt the grip on her hand tighten and knew it was a signal to keep moving, but it did nothing to quell the surge of rage welling up within her, threatening to boil over.With effort, she continued to walk.They think that's funny?That she was hurt."Assholes," she seethed, too angry to be shocked by her own choice of words.

"C'mon, String Bean.I'm sure the rats didn't eat.Much. You can come over here and share my fire."

The redhead came to an abrupt stop and whirled around towards one of the boxcars, eyes blazing.

Ginny bit her tongue as she waged an internal war over whether or not to simply march over to that boxcar and rip off somebody's head.But she allowed Lindsay to retake her trembling hand.They moved faster now, the snow wasn't as deep in this part of the yard.

"Here."Lindsay pointed towards a muddy brown boxcar whose sliding door was partially open.

"Wait," Lindsay insisted, her voice a harsh whisper."Lemme check it out first.Someone might be inside."

"Why do you need to check it out?" Ginny asked warily, instinctively moving closer to Lindsay.

"Because someone might be inside," she repeated slowly, as though talking to a dull child.Didn't I already explain this? "You should wait here."

Lindsay recognized that challenging expression on Ginny's face, and she jumped up into the boxcar before she had to deal with an argument.

Are all women this much trouble?Lindsay's feet thudded against the dirty metal floor, sending a quiet echo through the mostly-hollow structure.She hadn't meant to do that, and before she could lament her error she was wobbling precariously on the edge of the car.But a second later she'd found her footing and disappeared into the inky darkness.

Ginny narrowed her eyes.They would talk about that little move later.She looked over her shoulder then back into the boxcar.The railway yard had gone eerily quiet except for the pinging of sleet against steel and the pitiful moan of the wind.She waited several seconds, hoping to detect any sound from inside the car.

Ginny swallowed and pulled aside a strand of wet hair that was plastered to her cheek."Lindsay?" she whispered.

Ginny dropped to her knees and reached blindly into an ice-encrusted pile of snow, fishing for anything she could use as a weapon.She found a piece of splintered wood and pulled it from the snow as she rose to her feet and carefully lifted one foot into the boxcar.The wood was icy and it stung sensitive fingertips as she wrapped her hand tightly around it and climbed inside.She let out a tiny grunt as she pushed herself to her feet."Lindsay?" she repeated, her eyes widening as she peered into the blackness.

"What?" Lindsay answered in a normal tone, suddenly appearing less than a foot in front of Ginny's shocked eyes.

Ginny gasped.She took a quick step backwards and began to slip on the ice.The piece of wood went flying out of her hand and hit Lindsay squarely in the chest as Ginny's arms flailed wildly and she tried desperately to keep from falling out of the boxcar.

Lindsay's hand shot out and long fingers wound themselves around Ginny's lapel."Jesus Christ!"She leaned backwards, and, adrenaline pumping, yanked Ginny so hard that she sent the woman flying across the boxcar."I thought I asked you to wait?"

"What was I supposed to do?"Ginny marched back to Lindsay, until they were nose to nose."I waited and called your name but you didn't answer."

"I was worried." Ginny fought unsuccessfully to keep her frustration from leaking into her voice."Why did you take so long, anyway?"

Lindsay tiredly tossed down their sack.Being friends is hard! "Sometimes people are sleeping in these cars, Ginny.And if you wake them up unexpectedly they might just stab you between the eyes. Somehow I thought you might not find a Buck knife in the brain very appealing. I know I don't."

"Oh." Ginny suddenly felt incredibly foolish.She winced."I thoughtÉ What if you'd needed me?"

Ginny's eyes begged her to understand, and to her surprise, she did.Completely.Lindsay sighed and tucked her hands under her arms to keep from touching her friend again.She was doing that way too much.Surely Ginny would think she was a needy, crazy person, who couldn't keep her mitts to herself."I just didn't want you hurt," Lindsay explained with all the patience she could muster. "Everyone's not as nice as you are, Ginny.You need to be careful."

"I am careful." Ginny looked away. "Usually.But I got so worried," she muttered, knowing it sounded stupid.

"I know you've É umÉ you've lost a lot. So IÉ I mean I understand that.Maybe I shouldn't have left you outside.I guess.Maybe." Lindsay rolled her eyes at her own inability to communicate.It wasn't usually a problem with Ginny.She could, she knew intuitively, really talk to her.But sometimes when Ginny was looking at her the way she was at this very moment, Lindsay thought her heart might pound out of her chest.

Lindsay cast about for something to say that wouldn't make her sound like a moron. "We're out of the snow," she blurted.Oh, that was a good choice.

Ginny's eyebrows jumped at the non sequitur.She hadn't really minded the silence, so long as it wasn't because Lindsay was angry.She studied the other woman's face carefully, wondering what in the world had gotten Lindsay so fidgety all of a sudden."Exactly," Ginny agreed amiably."No more snow."

Lindsay's head bobbed gratefully and she let out a shuddering breath."This will be a good place to stay the night.No wind.No cops who will try to kick us out." Her thoughts drifted back to the offer they'd had to sleep in the church in Manhattan and a sliver of guilt pierced her heart."But the church would have been nicer, huh?"

Ginny picked up their sack and untied the top.She pulled out both of the blankets, burying her cold face in them for a moment."I dunno," she answered noncommittally, her voice muffled.But you were uncomfortable there. And that was more than enough reason for me to say no.She lifted her head and looked at Lindsay, wanting to convey that what made Lindsay comfortable mattered to her."This place works too.Anyplace is fine."

Ginny read her friend easily."This really is fine, Lindsay.C'mon, let's go to sleep.I can barely keep my eyes open and dawn will come soon enough."

"Okay.But first, why don't you put on the clothes in this bag?They'll be warmer than what you're wearing, and dry, and you can change tomorrow before we leave."

The thought of undressing in this strange place and in the bitter cold wasn't exactly appealing.Just being here made her feel exposed.Ginny bit her lip."Where willÉ I meanÉ"

"I need toÉ I have to take care of some business outside," Lindsay said in a rush, sensing Ginny's discomfort over having no place private to undress."I'll be right outside and back in two minutes, all right?"

Lindsay climbed back in the boxcar and was greeted by the sound of gentle snores.She carefully laid the armful of wood she'd scavenged on the floor.She smiled affectionately at her friend, who, much to Lindsay's distaste awoke with the chickens every morning but could fall into a deep sleep at the drop of a hat.

Ginny was curled up into the fetal position, wearing the dry clothes and cocooned in their blanket, her wet coat draped over her legs.She'd found some newspapers inside the boxcar and was lying on them rather than directly on the frigid metal floor.

Lindsay arranged the smallest pieces of wood into a volcano-shaped stack just inside the opening of the boxcar.Then she reached for their bag, from which she removed a new flint.She picked up a few pieces of newsprint and balled them up, tucking them into the base of the kindling.Her gaze drifted to her hand, and in a fit of temper she tore off the bandage that was wrapped around broken fingers.Lindsay examined the braced digits with disgust. She had been careless when it came to Albert and those French bastard cousins.She couldn't let that happen again. Not when Ginny was depending on her.

A few failed tries and Lindsay was able to create a spark.The wood wasn't as dry as she'd have liked, but eventually it did burn, producing a fair amount of warmth.The fire was close enough to the door that most of the smoke was drawn outside.She tossed her bandage into the flickering flames, wondering if she should wake Ginny and have her move closer to the warmth.

Ginny was in that confusing, murky space between consciousness and dreaming.She could feel the scratchy wool of her blanket against her chilled cheek, hear every gust of wind. But there was a vague detachment from the sensations, as though her brain knew she was experiencing them but her body couldn't dredge up the energy it took to care.

She pulled the blanket more tightly around herself as her thoughts drifted from the wintry scene at the railway yard to a six-story tenement on Orchard Street.Home.The sensations here seemed more real, tangible. And the smell of old wood and dust washed over her senses, bringing with it the security of family.She climbed into bed next to her sister, her heart bursting with love.There was the faintest hint of smoke in the air, but she was so happy, it didn't matter.

Lindsay poked at the fire and added a few heavier sticks to the flames. They were even wetter than the kindling had been and they began to hiss and spit, sending a light cloud into the boxcar as Lindsay fanned them.

Ginny wrinkled her nose at the smell. My feet are cold.But how can I be cold if there isÉShe rolled over in bed and shook Alice's shoulder.Alice's body flopped towards Ginny, her face shriveled and burned.Too horrified to move, her horror grew when her sister's damaged face morphed into Lindsay's.Ginny's eyes flew open and a bloodcurdling scream was torn from her throat."FIRE!"

Lindsay nearly jumped out of her skin and she flew to feet as the same moment Ginny did.

Ginny tore the blanket from her body and scrambled to the rear of the boxcar on wobbly legs.Her back slammed against the steel so hard that she dislodged several chunks of snow from the roof and they fell heavily to the ground near the door. "Fire," she cried again, her eyes flicking around wildly as her mind frantically tried to reconcile what she was seeing now with her dream and the gut-churning vision of her sister."Alice?Mama!"

"Ginny, calm down."Lindsay bolted to the back of the car and grabbed hold of Ginny, but the other woman violently wrenched free from her grasp.They both stumbled a few steps and Lindsay cried out as the splint snapped off her fingers and clattered to the floor.

"Let. Me. Go!" Ginny backed away from Lindsay as though she was terrified of her, but she had no place to go.Their eyes locked and held, and Ginny had a blinding burst of recognition that made no sense.What was her friend doing in her family's apartment? She was burned butÉ"There's a fire, can't you see that?"

Ginny's eyes were wild and confused, and even in the dim light Lindsay could see the furious pounding of Ginny's pulse against her pale throat, fogged breath escaping her nose and mouth with every harsh pant."Ginny, you're dreaming.You-"

"We have to leave!" Ginny darted forward and grabbed Lindsay in a movement so frantic it tore the tattered remains of the bandages from her hands. "We need to run!"

Lindsay's heart twisted in her chest as the magnitude of her error hit home.Stupid.The fire. I should have told her. She swallowed hard to keep from bursting into tears herself."Ginny," she spoke softly, stroking her friend's cheeks, but in the very next heartbeat she understood that that wouldn't work.

"NO! NO! NO!"The younger woman was beside herself.Tears welled in beseeching eyes."You don't understand!You have to get out!"

Lindsay grabbed Ginny by the shoulders and shook her hard."Ginny!Wake up.WAKE UP!"

Ginny's entire body jerked as though she'd been slapped.She was so close to throwing up that she wasn't sure she could speak, and she looked around again, this time seeing the dark interior of the of the boxcar, and the small, obviously well-planned fire at its entrance.Her chest heaved and she brought shaking hands to her face."Lindsay?" she rasped brokenly.

Lindsay closed her eyes and willed her thumping heart to slow.She felt lightheaded."Yes."Thank you."It's me." With the smallest of tugs Ginny's body fell forward, and she wound her arms around her, feeling Ginny's legs give way.

"Lindsay." Ginny buried her face against Lindsay's neck, greedily absorbing the warmth and scent of her friend's skin as though it was more vital than the air she breathed.And for that brief moment in time-it was.She began to sob.

"ShhhÉ you're safe now."She turned her body so that Ginny's back would be to the flames."There's no fire, at least not one that I'd let hurt you."I'd die first. She unconsciously tightened her hold on Ginny until a soft gasp broke her spell. Lindsay instantly relaxed her arms."DidÉ did I hurt you?"

"Okay, then.Let's get comfortable." Lindsay eased them both down to the floor, her back sliding against the cold wall."I should have told you I was going to build a fire.I don't know what I was thinking.I just assumedÉ Ugh.I am so sorry."

"Am I going insane?" Ginny wondered out loud, her voice the barest of whispers. "You're really all right?" She pressed her cheek against Lindsay's throat, feeling her strong pulse against her skin.

"Me?" She didn't know what Ginny was talking about but decided it didn't really matter.Lindsay pressed her cheek into Ginny's soft, mussed hair."I'm just great.And you're not insane.You just woke up in a strange place, didn't know where you were or what the hell was going on, and pitched a fit." She waved her hand dismissively and wryly explained,"Happens to me all the time."

A tiny chuckle was forced from Ginny's throat.She pulled back just far enough to see Lindsay's face and gave her a trembling smile as gentle fingers traced her cheek for asplit second before tucking a stray lock of red hair behind her ear.

Ginny's glistening blue eyes and tearstained cheeks tore her friend's heart in two.

Lindsay's mouth worked in vain as she struggled to speak around the lump in her throat. Leave you? "IÉ" A painful swallow."I won't leave you, Ginny.I swear."

Ginny nodded and closed her eyes as she snuggled closer.Her lips grazed Lindsay's ear and she whispered through her tears, "I know it's not forever, Lindsay.ButÉ please just don't let go of me tonight.I need-"

"Never." Lindsay's adjusted her arms around Ginny, mentally daring anyone or anything to deny them this comfort.Finally, Ginny's breathing evened out as her breaths slowed and lengthened.Lindsay felt the tightly coiled body in her arms relax and eventually go limp.She reached out with one leg and was able to inch Ginny's blanket over to them from the boxcar floor.

The aftermath of the excitement had left her with the chills, and she awkwardly wrapped the blanket over them both, grateful for its added warmth. There would be no sleep for her tonight, however.

The noise they'd made had surely alerted everyone in the yard that there were two women in this boxcar, and although she'd stayed in this very car several times and in places far worse, it was different now that she had someone who depended on her.Someone good, who mattered, and didn't belong in a place like this.Someone who listened to her and laughed with her and whose smile warmed her from the inside out.

Lindsay studied the small, dancing flames of the fire with unseeing eyes.She was still watching them intently when the last of the ashes burnt out and the first rays of the sun began to creep into the boxcar, painting the floor.In those moments of transition between night and day, Lindsay accepted something about herself that was both thrilling and terrifying at the same time.She didn't want to let go of Virginia Chisholm-ever.

A wistful sigh broke the silence.Nothing, it seemed to Lindsay, was ever simple."What am I going to do now?" she murmured into the frosty night air, pressing her cheek against soft hair and allowing her eyes to flutter closed.And when you find those kids, how the hell am I going to tell you goodbye?

Lindsay roused Ginny with a gentle shake of her arms, dropping her lips to a chilled ear to murmur quietly.She knew the young redhead would want to get back to the bakery as soon as possible so that they could leave for the orphanage, despite the fact that they'd both be starting out exhausted.It was the first time since they'd met that Lindsay had awakened before her friend. It felt odd, their normal routine already as comfortable as well-worn shoes.

Ginny's body was still plastered to Lindsay when she heard a low hum in her ear and was tugged reluctantly from a heavy slumber.She pulled away slowly, not wanting to leave the warm safe haven of slim arms.Bleary eyes tried to focus on the face so close to hers and she yawned as she got her bearings.

For both women, there was a split second of nervousness, when the intimacy of the position of their bodies flashed through them.They froze and a current of pure emotion moved freely between two sets of slightly bloodshot eyes.But it passed quickly and Ginny's face wrinkled into a heartfelt, if tired, grin."Mornin', Spinach Leaf," she whispered softly, her voice rough with sleep.

Lindsay smiled back, the gentle teasing welcome after the trauma of the night before."One of these days you'll run out of vegetables," she warned, opening her arms so Ginny could stand and stretch.She rolled her shoulders, then neck, wincing at their stiffness.

Ginny only snorted."Too bad for you I happen to love vegetables.They didn't call where we lived Orchard Street for nothing.Brrr." She wrapped her arms around herself, already missing Lindsay's warmth.A glint of metal on the floor caught her eye and she moved a few paces, bending to retrieve the splint that had been torn from Lindsay's fingers the night before.She shot a questioning glance at the other woman, who merely shrugged one shoulder as she stuffed their blanket into the sack.

"I'm fine," Lindsay insisted."I hardly felt a thing."She wiggled her fingers as evidence, her voice cracking slightly at the unexpected twinge of pain the action caused.

Ginny grumbled something to herself that her friend couldn't make out.If the deep crease in her normally smooth forehead was any indication, Ginny was not happy.

Lindsay sighed as she fought with herself.Though she wholeheartedly enjoyed it when Ginny paid almost any kind of attention to her, which was often, at that moment she was stiff, hungry, and wishing for an outhouse.In short, just not in the mood to be fussed over."No, you don't.The splint was bothering me anyway." Lindsay made a face. "I burned that nasty bandage."

It wasn't a complete lie.Her fingers were sore, but the bones had knitted and as long as she was careful she really didn't think she needed the splint.When Ginny remained almost eerily quiet, she added, "We should get going.Ester said to be there right after dawn and it's at least a fifteen minute walk from here."

Ginny's gaze strayed out of the boxcar where it stayed for several heartbeats before returning to Lindsay, where it settled uneasily."I need to fix it, Lindsay," she repeated softly, but this time there was a hint of pleading to her voice that Lindsay was powerless to ignore.

Lindsay blew out a frustrated breath, but she wasn't really mad."Fine."She lifted her hand for Ginny's inspection.

Ginny half smiled and set to work quickly, using a strip of cloth torn from the hem of Bertha's dress, which they'd saved for emergencies, all the while quietly insisting that without the splints Lindsay's strong, beautiful fingers might not heal properly.Head bent as she concentrated on her task, Ginny murmured the tender words casually.They fell from her lips as though they were the most natural thing in the world, totally unaware of the profound effect they had on Lindsay.

Impulsively, Ginny lifted Lindsay's hand and gently pressed her lips to long fingers.She swallowed the apology for last night that was on the tip of her tongue and did her best to ignore Lindsay's surprised gasp at the kiss.

For her part, the stupefied brunette couldn't have been rendered any dumber if she'd been kicked in the head by a mule.An incredulous stare on her face, she watched Ginny stand.My first kiss, her mind crowed, in a state of shocked delight.

Ginny gave Lindsay's leg a gentle pat, privately thrilling at the slightly dreamy look on Lindsay's face."All done."She licked her lips and for the first time Lindsay noticed that she was squirming a little."Now I need to umÉ."

Lindsay chuckled.She'd learned what Ôum' meant their first day out of the hospital."So?Go."

Lindsay burst out laughing, showing a flash of the teenager behind the rail-rider.In fact, she was so happy she felt like singing.Except that she couldn't carry a tune.Hell, I might just do it anyway.Except I don't know any songs. Unperturbed, she said, "Those bums are still sleeping."Gracefully, she pushed herself to her feet then stumbled to the entrance of the boxcar, groaning in relief as the blood began flowing into the leg that had been asleep for most of the night. "Gambling or the cops would be the only thing to rouse them at this hour."

Ginny looked a little confused.It was morning wasn't it?She'd usually headed out well before dawn to begin her trek to work.

"It's one of the few benefits of the lifestyle," Lindsay explained patiently, smirking at Ginny's bewildered look."We don't live by the clock."She cocked her head to the side."More like a railroad schedule, I guess.But the when and where we go is still up to us."

"Lindsay!"Ginny was shifting from one foot to the other.She looked longingly to the very back of the boxcar and Lindsay's eyes widened in reaction.

Relief flooded through Ginny.Needing no further encouragement, she snatched up a piece of old newsprint from the boxcar floor and fairly flew out of the door. Her feet crunched loudly on the snow as affectionate brown eyes followed her exit, then glanced down at tingling fingers in awe.

Ester let the women into the back door of the bakery, which wasn't open to the public for another ten minutes. Ginny had changed back into her dress in a vain attempt to look as respectable as possible to the orphanage.Lindsay had their sack slung over her shoulder and had, thankfully, been spared the request of changing out of her male attire.Apparently, Ginny considered Lindsay dressing like a man to be preferable to her dressing like a whore.

Don't think about what you'll do after you find Jane and the boys.Wait until you see them or you'll drive yourself crazy until then, Ginny told herself, the nervousness over actually being reunited with her siblings making her mouth dry.

Both young women moaned throatily as they inhaled the scent of fresh baked bread, strong coffee, and cinnamon when the back door opened. "Lord, have mercy.I think I'm gonna pass out," Ginny muttered.

"C'mon in.My husband should be here any minute. The old fool is already ten minutes late."Ester's salt and pepper hair was covered with a fine layer of bread flour and her forehead and slightly hairy upper lip glistened with perspiration, which served only to attract more flour."These are what we give to the children," she said proudly, pointing a finger that had dough jammed beneath the fingernail towards three large cloth sacks.The bags bulged with rolls, pastries, and loaves of bread and sat just inside the back door, waiting for delivery.

Lindsay's stomach growled loudly and her skilled fingers itched to snitch something for breakfast.She was an orphan wasn't she?Would it be so wrong snitch a roll or three?God, she anguished mentally.Not stealing is bullshit!How does Ginny stand it?Lindsay glanced up and caught Ginny eyeing the bags wistfully. She suddenly felt a little better about her moment of weakness when her friend sighed piteously.It was an acknowledgment of the abject temptation before them.

Ester left them waiting in the back room while she shuffled behind to put the finishing touches to her display of sweet rolls.

A loud Ômeeeeeoowwwwwww' drew both young women's attention to the floor, where an enormous, fat, orange-and-white tabby cat stood up from her spot on a blanket in the corner and arched her back, stretching languidly.When she was finished, she plopped back down as though the exertion of standing for those few seconds had been too much for her.

"Awwww," Ginny cooed, recalling her long-dead childhood pet, who, except for the size, reminded her very much of this cat."I wish I could have her."

Lindsay stuffed her hands in her pockets, more than a little surprised.Rocking back on her heels, she wrinkled her nose."Really?They're not nearly as tasty as they look."

"I know, it's hard to believe, isn't it?They look like they'd be all juicy and tender.But they're actually stringy and greasy."

"WÉwhÉwhat's wrong with you?" Ginny sputtered, placing herself between Lindsay and the fat cat. "I don't want to eat her!"

"Oh." Lindsay smiled brightly, glad she'd convinced her."Good choice.They're really nasty." She narrowed her eyes at some far tastier prey, and a low growl erupted from the back of her throat."How about we go for those rolls instead?"She took a step closer to the bags.

Just then Ester walked into the storeroom, brushing the excess flour off her apron.Impatiently, her gaze flicked around the small room."He's not here yet?" She threw her hands in the air."I knew that old mule would be nothing but trouble!"

"Mule?" Ginny inquired curiously, wondering if Ester was referring to her husband or an actual animal.

"We bought a new one last week and George, my husband, can't control the nag.He's probably half way to Buffalo right now with the money for the cash register."Ester grabbed her coat from a hook on the back door."I have to find that fool man."She wrung her hands nervously."We're opening in five minutes."

Ester was about to shoo Ginny and Lindsay outside when Ginny piped up, "We'll wait here and tell the customers that you'll be right back."She gave Ester her best pleading look."We wait exceptionally well."

Ester shook her head Ôno' and Ginny's heart sank.It was freezing out this morning."I'm sorry but-"

"Or we could stand out front and tell them sewer rats and cockroaches ate all your meat and that's the reason the store is closed.Because you're out buying more," Lindsay supplied helpfully, lifting a sassy, single eyebrow and pinning Ester with a determined look.

Lindsay hitched her hands onto narrow hips, seeing no reason to mess around with this woman. The bad weather had passed for the moment and they could always find the orphanage on their own."Well?Are we staying or are you booting us out into the snow?"

Ester debated with herself for a moment, then exhaled explosively."Fine.You," this directed solely at Ginny, "look like the honest sort."Her eyes drifted back to Lindsay."You, don't touch anything.Everything is counted.Everything."

Lindsay rolled her eyes and walked out of the storeroom into the deli to get a cup of coffee."Can't count that, can you, ya skinflint old biddy," she grumbled, her arms crossed grumpily over her chest.

Ginny smiled weakly, not approving of Lindsay's methods, but not stupid enough to want to be out in the cold a second longer than she had to be. Besides, Ester looked too preoccupied with what had happened to her husband and their money to really be too upset.

"I'll be back as soon as I can," the middle-aged woman said as she bustled out the back door.

"Okay.Goodb-" The slamming door abruptly cut Ginny off."That was rude."But there was no one in the storeroom to hear her.Taking off her coat and gently rubbing together hands that were still achy from the cold, she padded back to the front of the store.

Lindsay was sitting at the table, her eyes closed, coat and hat off, and feet propped up on the table as she sipped a steaming cup of coffee.She ran her fingers through her tousled hair and didn't bother to open her eyes when she heard Ginny's soft footsteps."Don't say it," Lindsay warned as she took another drink."I'm not sorry for taking the coffee.That grumpy old bi-"

"What does she mean you look like the honest sort?" Lindsay ranted."What about me?It's not like she even knows me."

"Oh." There was a pause then Lindsay smiled.Okay, so her friend was honest but not a Saint.She could live with that."Behind that counter next to the pickled eggs."

Ginny sighed."Great. Because I feel like a train ran over me.Don't get me wrong, sleeping plastered to your body is far from a chore," she said innocently, her back to Lindsay as she poured herself a cup, "but a bed would be a lot more comfortable."

An image of her and Ginny tangled together in a big soft bed, completely naked, flashed through Lindsay's mind, causing a scarlet blush to erupt on her neck and face and her heart to skip a beat.Her feet slipped off the tabletop and landed onto the floor with a solid thud.God!She blinked several times quickly, trying to rid her mind of the shocking thought.

Ginny turned, a small white cup cradled in both hands.Her eyes lifted and she blinked at the startled look on Lindsay's face."WhÉ Lindsay?"She rushed across the room, setting her mug down hastily as she cupped Lindsay's flushed cheeks."Are you all right?"She searched her face worriedly. "You didn't burn yourself, did you?"

Lindsay shook her head no and hastily stood up, moving to the door.She already felt like a pervert, and now she felt like a guilty pervert for making Ginny worry."No," she croaked as she mentally commanded her hands to stop shaking."I'm fine.Look, a customer."

Ginny frowned, not ready to let the matter drop, but Lindsay unlocked the front door and let the man in, effectively ending their conversation.

A blast of cold air filled the room and the bell sounded as the door opened."Sorry, mac," Lindsay told the man as he walked through the door."We don't have any money for change so you'll have to come back later."

The man's dark eyebrows pulled together and he dug in his pocket, pulling out several coins."Don't need change." He held them up for Lindsay to inspect."I buy the same thing everyday."

Lindsay shrugged and sat back down, studiously avoiding Ginny's inquiring gaze."Take what you want then and leave the money on the counter."She put her feet back up.

"Hey," he complained."I have exact change and I'm hungry."He thrust out his bearded chin."Who are you twoÉ" he sucked in his stomach and sniffed haughtily, "to tell me what I can or can't do?I'm one of Ester's best customers." The man's gray gaze flicked around the room as he searched for the proprietress.

Several women hustled through the front door, holding their hats on their heads and complaining about the wind and traffic.They impatiently moved to the register, ready to place their orders.

"Hey!" the man said again."I'm first in line." He moved quickly, taking his place ahead of the women, who were now squawking about his rudeness.

Half a dozen more people entered the store and Ginny's mouth dropped open."BuÉ"

Ginny narrowed her eyes at her friend."This is your fault for leaving the door unlocked.You'd better not think you can sit there and drink coffee while I work," she informed Lindsay indignantly.

Ginny put both her hands on her hips and glared at Lindsay."Well, are you going to help me?"

Lindsay shrugged, totally unconcerned."I'm really not a customer service kind of person."

Lindsay bit back a smile of surprise at Ginny's commanding tone and set down her coffee cup."Attention, everyone!" she yelled over the din of the anxious crowd."Anyone who doesn't have exact change, get out now."

A chorus of moans, more raucous complaints, and ÔWhere's Ester?' met Lindsay's words.

Ginny marched over to Lindsay and grabbed hold of her ear, lifting her out of her seat with a sharp tug.

"Ouch. Ouch. Ouch." Lindsay squawked as she tried to walk with her head bent sideways. "I'm already missing a chunk of my other ear.I want all of this one!"

The younger woman turned her back to the customers and faced an outraged Lindsay. "Are you going to be nice now?"She gave her a ghost of a wink and the tip of pink tongue poked out between her lips, letting her companion know above all that there was no malice in her actions.

"Why youÉ youÉ. Ugh."Lindsay felt her anger melt away.For a split second she was frustrated, but she knew it was no use.She sighed."Do I have a choice?"

Ginny bit her bottom lip and didn't answer, looking at Lindsay from beneath thick lashes.

Lindsay shook her head and chuckled softly, bumping hips with her companion as she moved along side her.

"Absolutely." Lindsay's answer was delivered with such sincerity and innocence that Ginny's mouth shaped a tiny O.

Lindsay's smile turned devilish."Okay." She looked out at the waiting customers."Who was first again?" She pointed to a short fat man who was standing in the middle of the line."You, right?"

"Careful what you wish for," Lindsay murmured as she reached into the bakery display case.

The next three hours passed in a frantic blur, with a long line of noisy customers packing the small bakery.

"God, I hate New Yorkers," Lindsay grumbled as she locked the door and turned the sign to ÔClosed'."I don't care if they will want lunch soon; they can go somewhere else."

"Probably went and killed herself." Lindsay began rooting around behind the counter. "Can you believe those customers?" Her voice turned whiney in imitation. "I want my bread.I want my bagel."

Ginny's tone dropped and she affected her best German accent. "Vat do you meeeeean der is no rye bread, girlie?"

Lindsay emerged from behind the counter with two plates loaded with rolls and slices of seasoned meat.The handles of two coffee cups were looped over her fingers.One of the plates was balanced atop a pot of hot coffee and the steam billowed around the plates, casting Lindsay in a cloud.She carefully set down her booty, placing the pot between them and the cups in front of them.

The younger woman's stomach growled as she looked from the plates to Lindsay."Payment to us for services rendered, wouldn't you say?"

Unceremoniously, Lindsay plopped down next to Ginny and kicked out her feet.A slow smile crept across her face and she reached into the pile and held up a sweet roll dripping with white icing.

Ginny paled slightly at the thought.Some of her recent mental wanderings that involved Lindsay had been confusing and unsettling andÉ.

"Oh." Ginny's heart resumed beating. "Okay, that makes sense."Then, on a whim, she simply opened her mouth.

Responding to the request without thought, Lindsay fed her a bite from her own hand.When the redhead closed her eyes and moaned low and deep in pure pleasure, Lindsay felt her mouth go dry.She quickly handed Ginny the roll but the younger woman was so enthralled with the treat that she didn't notice anything but the explosion of taste on her tongue.

"MmmÉ This is fantastic, Lindsay.You have to try it."Ginny picked up another of the same type of roll and held it in front of Lindsay's mouth.

Feeling a little lightheaded, Lindsay swallowed hard and leaned forward for a bite.As soon as the sweet, cinnamon flavor hit her tongue she couldn't help but groan.

This time is was Ginny who squirmed a little in her seat.She cast her eyes downward."IÉ uhÉ toldja.Is it hot in here?" She fanned herself with one hand.

"Not really.Mmm." Lindsay licked her lips."This is the best thing I've ever tasted."

Ginny's gaze shifted to Lindsay's lower lip, which glistened with icing.Unconsciously, she licked her own lips.

"Damn, these are good."I wonder how many I can fit in my pockets?Screw the mess.

Ginny's head snapped up at the sound of Lindsay's voice and she let out a slightly shaky breath, wondering what in the world had gotten into her.She couldn't want toÉ. "UhÉ Did you ever dream of being trapped overnight in a candy shop as a kid, and being able to eat as much as you wanted?" she said in rush, still flustered.

Lindsay took another bite as she thoughtfully considered Ginny's question."Nope." She shrugged one shoulder and smiled affectionately."But I will now."

When Ester and her husband finally hurried in the back door of the bakery sometime near noon, they found Lindsay and Ginny pressed tightly together in one of the bakery's booths, powdered sugar and icing on their faces, crumbs sprinkled liberally on their clothes, heads lolling sideways, and deeply asleep.

It had been a hectic, horrible morning, and one which both young women would remember with nothing but fondness.

Ginny discreetly lifted the front of her coat away from her body and ducked her head inside to sniff.Unable to come to a firm conclusion, she repeated the process as Lindsay watched with a bemused smile.

They were on the steps of The Society for the Betterment of Children Orphanage, having just been dropped off by Ester's husband, who went around back to make his delivery to the service entrance.The dilapidated state of the neighboring buildings and the homeless and immigrant population clearly showed this was a poor section of town.But the snow had been neatly swept from the stairs of the orphanage and there was a noticeable absence of newspapers, bottles, and other refuse on the sidewalk. Even the street in front of the large brownstone was relatively clear of trash and steaming piles of horse manure, which, in this high traffic area, was an excellent sign that the establishment was well cared for.

"What's wrong?I thought for sure you'd be jumping for joy right now," Lindsay noted, ignoring the vulgar proposition made by a homeless man as he limped down the sidewalk behind them.

Lindsay laughed."What?Don't be silly. You finagled us a bath not three days ago. And I know you brush your teeth."

"StillÉ" Ginny moved a step closer to her companion and lowered her voice."I look a mess and have no job.They're never going to give me the children if they think I'm a bum."

Lindsay's smiled dissolved when she got a good look at Ginny's face and could tell that her friend was truly upset."You're not a bum."

"They won't know that," Ginny declared.She held her arms open in invitation."Just look at me."

Given permission, Lindsay indulged herself in a good long look and wryly said,"If you insist."She started with red, windblown hair that was shaggily trimmed and highlighted with streaks of blonde.When Lindsay's gaze dropped to vibrant sky-blue eyes framed with pale, thick lashes, pink cheeks and a youthful, slightly upturned nose, she couldn't hold back her own smile any longer.

Ginny's lips parted slightly and Lindsay saw a flash of healthy teeth and the beginnings of a nervous grin.Next came a slim, delicate neck whose faint scars from the fire didn't even register to Lindsay's eyes.The rest of Ginny was obscured by her woolen coat, but it wasn't hard for Lindsay to recall the womanly curves that lay beneath and the strong arms that gave such wonderfully hugs she found herself considering doing the most preposterous things just to earn one.

"Well?" Ginny swallowed nervously.She hadn't expected Lindsay to take her time like that, but, now that she had, Ginny was dying to know.

"You're hideous."Lindsay held her hands in front of her eyes to shield them."I can't believe I didn't notice before."

"Of course you're not."Lindsay grabbed Ginny's arm and began tugging her up the steps."So why'd you ask me such a stupid question?"

"Hey!"Lindsay abruptly stopped."Are you trying to tell me I stink?"Without the slightest trace of modesty the brunette began sniffing herself.

"No."Ginny laid her hand over Lindsay's."Smelling is not stinking," she insisted."I was going to say you smell like you."She thought of the men that Lindsay was talking about and her stomach roiled."It's nothing like that."

"I smell like me?What does that mean?" Lindsay demanded, crossing her arms in front of her chest and forcing herself not to laugh as Ginny tried desperately to reassure her.She was so easy."I smell like sweat or dirt or something?I brush my teeth too, you know.Most rail-riders just let Ôem rot, but not me."

Ginny held up both hands in surrender."I know, you do.And the smell is not like dirtÉ I mean, sure you sweat and all, but it's not stinky." She rubbed her forehead with one hand."I don't know how to explain it.. it's all warm and justÉ."Please don't make me admit I like how you smell. That's just not something I can explain.Even to myself.

"Lindsay, you do not!" Ginny's frustration leaked into her words."I'm the one who has to smell you.I would know."

Ginny let out a relieved breath, a little surprised that Lindsay suddenly understood."Yes."Thank you."That's just what I'm saying."

"Ginny?"Lindsay grasped Ginny by the forearms and smiled triumphantly."You don't stink.Get over it."Before her moment of victory could be ruined, Lindsay took the final steps up to the orphanage door and rang the bell, leaving Ginny staring open-mouthed behind her.

The door opened and a man about the same height as Lindsay and Ginny, with thick blond hair and a Roman nose, answered the door.He was younger than both women had expected, probably not more than thirty, and was wearing dark trousers with suspenders and a crisp white shirt with no necktie."Come in, come in," he offered politely, stepping aside so they could pass."I just spoke with Hans out back.He said you were looking for some children?" He suddenly stopped and smiled a little sheepishly. "Where are my manners?I'm Christian Spence."He extended his hand.

Ginny took it and grasped it firmly."Hello, Mr. Spence.I'm Virginia Chisholm." Both women moved inside, their eyes scanning the interior.The house was inordinately noisy, and children's voices, some raised in laughter, others in argument, rang out. It reminded Ginny a little of the chicken slaughterhouse where she worked and the endless squawking of the birds.James, Lewis, JaneÉare you here? She licked her lips nervously, the importance of the moment washing over her like a cold bath, leaving her shivering.You have to be.

The man's gray eyes turned to Lindsay, who smiled amiably and said, "And I'm Ginny's friend."Slyly she reached out and took Ginny's hand, twining their fingers together tightly and feeling the return squeeze, a thumb brushing gently over her cold knuckles. Her mind marveled at how easy that was and how wonderful it felt.Comfort freely given and lovingly acknowledged.

Mr. Spence cocked his head to the side, curious about the person before him, who at first appeared to be a pretty young man but upon closer examination was clearly a young woman.An oddly beautiful one at that.Not especially disconcerted by Lindsay's unwillingness to offer more about herself, he pointed at their coats and gently cleared his throat.

"No, thank you," Lindsay answered for the both of them. "We'll keep them if it's all the same to you."

"All right," the man allowed, recognizing instantly the wary attitude of someone who lived by their wits."I understand you're looking for someone.Hans couldn't tell me anything else."

"Yes, yes."Mr. Spence nodded and began walking down a short hallway off the foyer.

"It was terrible," he said needlessly."We took in four children that night.Three siblings in fact.But I'm sorry; none with the last name Chisholm.One is a nine-year-old named Mary."He stopped in front of a door, behind which Ginny could hear the laughter of children playing.

"Yes, Mary Callahan." Ginny's voice grew animated."I'm so glad she got out.She lived on the second floor.But my brothers and sister's name isn't Chisholm," shetold him quickly."That's my name.We had different fathers."

Without waiting, Ginny took a deep breath, pushed open the door and stepped inside.

In the middle of the floor were two little boys playing with several brightly painted, wooden toy soldiers.When they saw the figure enter the room their eyes lit up."Ginny," they cried out together, jumping to their feet and rushing over to the shocked woman.They wrapped their arms around her legs and hugged her with all their might.

Lindsay let out a shaky breath and closed her eyes.Yes.She brought up a hand and scrubbed her face, still not believing that it had actually happened.They'd found them. It was an honest to goodness, goddamned happy ending.

Her friend's back was to her, but when Lindsay opened her eyes she could see that Ginny's shoulders were shaking and that she was returning the hug.She let them stand that way for a moment or two before quietly entering the room and laying her hand on Ginny's arm.But when tear-filled eyes swung up to met hers, Lindsay knew that something was terribly wrong.

Lindsay's gaze dropped to the boys, whose dark hair and olive complexions looked nothing like Ginny's.They were small too, and now that she took the time to really pay attention, she figured they couldn't be more than four or five years old

The redhead straightened her back and wiped her cheeks with a trembling hand."Leo and Nuncio." She did her best to smile."How are you?"

"Not today." She sniffed and her voice dropped to a whisper."I'm so happy you're all right.You didn't get hurt.That's wonderful."Ginny left any questions about their parents unasked.The fact that they were here at all was answer enough.Releasing them from her hug, she watched as the boys moved back to their spot on the floor and almost instantly became reabsorbed in their play, bashing their soldiers against one another and making all the required sound effects for a truly good war.

Her chest felt so tight she didn't think she could speak, but Ginny knew that Lindsay was patiently waiting for some sort of explanation."They're from the fourth floor of my building and don't speak much English.Sometimes when Mama and I would make cookies," she said thickly, "I would go out onto the stoop and share them with the kids."Her breathing hitched."And-" She stopped speaking and covered her face with her hands as she began to cry.

Oh, Ginny."I'm so sorry," Lindsay whispered, pulling Ginny into a hug as Mr. Spence shifted uncomfortably in the doorway and did his best to avert curious eyes.

"That was stupid.Stupid!" Ginny shook her head wildly, scattering her hair across her forehead."I shouldn't have thought-"

"ShhÉ" Lindsay soothed, her lips near Ginny's ear."You were not stupid to hope.We'll keep looking.We won't stop.I promise."

With an apologetic look, Mr. Spence finally moved inside the room.He waved his hand, effectively dismissing the boys, then made the mistake of touching Ginny.

"I'm very sorry, Ms. Chisholm.I somehow doubted that these were the boys who you were looking for, butÉ"

"It's all right," Ginny said, giving Lindsay a watery smile that conveyed her thanks, before pulling away, her cheeks tearstained.

Lindsay stared into Ginny's eyes and had to look away.Shining with tears, they were so beautiful and painful that her heart twisted in her chest.

A handkerchief appeared out of nowhere and Ginny gladly took it from Mr. Spence, who looked inordinately pleased that he could finally be of some help.

Ginny wiped her face."Don't apologize.It's my fault.I just wanted so badly to believe my brothers and sister were here.I-"

He lifted his hand to forestall her."Enough said.Please.I have a younger brother myself."

Ginny nodded and did her best to pull herself together, drawing strength from the quiet, reassuring presence at her side.Thank you, Lindsay.There would, undoubtedly, be more tears later, but for now she needed to get down to business, not fall apart."I'm looking for Lewis, James, and Jane Robson.The boys are 8-year-old fraternal twins.Jane is 3." Her voice cracked a little but she pressed on."I'm all the family they have left.Are they here, Mr. Spence?"

The man's gaze softened and to his surprise, his own voice was a little rough when he spoke."No. But for their sakes," and yours, "I wish they were."

Feeling a little weak in the knees, Ginny stepped towards the door. "Thank you for your time." Her mind was already spinning out possibilities of where they would look next, what they would do.

He ran around in front of Ginny, blocking the door with his body and once again laying a hand on her arm.This time he noticed the look that Lindsay was giving him and he swallowed reflexively."I'm sorry they're not here, Miss Chisholm," he pushed the blazing brown eyes out of his mind so he could focus, "but that doesn't mean I can't help you."

The hackles on the back of Lindsay's neck relaxed and she was glad that for once she'd controlled her temper.

"Another agency took several children from that same fire.I don't know if they're your siblings but it's a place to start.If you two will wait in the parlor, I'll make some calls."He lifted his jaw proudly."We had a phone installed just last year." He held out a large hand to Ginny and wrapped his arm around hers when she took it.With a glance over his shoulder, he led Ginny into the next room with Lindsay following silently behind.

Ginny and Lindsay were barely on the sofa and Mr. Spence was out the door to make his phone call when a gaggle of girls walked passed their door.A step behind the rest of the crowd, a freckle-faced girl caught Ginny's eye."Mary?"

The girl's head snapped up and tears instantly filled her eyes.She stood at the door trembling, unwilling to move.

Ginny patted Lindsay's thigh and hurried into the hall, dropping to her knees in front of the small child.Lindsay couldn't hear what they were saying, but she heard the girl's muffled sobs and the soothing murmurs she knew were coming from her friend.In her mind's eye, she could easily picture Ginny on the steps of her building, passing out cookies. She wasn't surprised at all that the neighborhood children knew and loved her.Hell, I wouldn't have even needed the cookies, she admitted honestly.

Nearly fifteen minutes passed before Mr. Spence entered the parlor through a side door and joined Lindsay on the sofa.He watched idly as Ginny tried to gently pry herself away from the little girl."Mary will be all right," he assured Lindsay."We found an aunt who's coming in from Florida next week to claim her."

Ginny hurried into the room, looking shell-shocked and feeling worse."Well?Were you able to find them?"She stopped in front of Mr. Spence but didn't bother to sit back down.

"Indeed."He stared at the wall."What does that mean?It's hard to explain, but allow me to do my best."

Lindsay was quickly growing tired of what she considered to be drawn out bullshit. Why wouldn't the man just spit out what he knew?But Ginny was still hanging on his every word and she couldn't bring herself to disappoint her friend.

"The organization I contacted is calledÔThe Foundling Placement Society'," he continued."It's run by Jeremiah and Isabelle Ward.They're regulars in the society pages. Perhaps you've heard of them?"

He fiddled with one of his suspenders."Right.Anyway, their organization is much like this one.They are, in essence, an orphanage that runs on a combination of state and private funding. They've adopted the practice of placing children on what are commonly called orphan trains.Surely you've heard of those?" he inquired. "The Children's Aid Society, a far more reputable agency, has made them quite famous."

The blood drained from Ginny's face."Are you telling me my family has been shipped out West?"

"Of course.The Foundling Placement Society is under investigation by the state for allegedly placing children in households whose sole intention is to use the children as workers and nothing more."

"Slaves?" Lindsay speculated, knowing that while New York City was overflowing with unwanted child laborers, other parts of the country were desperate for workers.

He cringed."I hate the word slave," he mumbled."But in extreme instances it's not far from the truth.These children are in essence sold to those who need workers."

"Jane and Lewis and James are too young to work for some company or farm," Ginny insisted, knowing in her heart that wasn't true.Even the chicken stripping warehousewhere she'd been employed had several workers under the age of ten.God.

"That's clearly true in your sister's case," Mr. Spence told her, not wanting to argue the case of her brothers. They all knew what went on in factories across the country.There was no need to hammer home the point.He pushed himself to his feet to join Ginny. "The Wards' organization continues to adopt out children of all ages, perhaps in order to gain continued support from private donations.Sadly, younger children are seen as more sympathetic while those aged 12 or so are looked at as-"

"Dregs," Lindsay supplied resentfully, knowing society's attitude all too well."Their bodies are nearly adult size, so they should work to earn their keep.Only no one would pay a child an adult's wages so they can't make a living.So then the children must belazy, worthless-"

"Lindsay," Ginny prodded softly.There was still so much she didn't know about this person who had come to mean so much to her, so much she suspected would be hard to hear and harder for Lindsay to say.But just maybe, after all these years on her own, Lindsay needed to say it. And she'd be there to listen.

Lindsay blinked as if snapping out of a daze. "I'm sorry.PleaseÉ Go on, Mr. Spence.

Mr. Spence looked uncomfortable."That is not my personal belief, I assure you.And if you ladies would call me Christian I would consider it a personal favor."

Lindsay nodded.He was being far more gracious than most men would to a woman of her social status. "All right."

Sensing how uncomfortable Lindsay was with his attention on her, Christian addressed Ginny. "What I've shared with you and your friend, Miss Chisholm, are merely accusations for which I have no proof."

"But you believe them to be true," Ginny finished grimly."Please call me Ginny."

"And the Robsons are at this Foundlings Placement Society?" Lindsay asked, rising to her feet as well.

He scratched his jaw."I was told they were not.Of course, I was also told that they did not take in any children from the fire at 84 Orchard Street.And I know for a fact that this is a blatant lie."He scowled, clearly unhappy with his inability to find out more."If you want to know for sure whether the children are there, I'm afraid you're going to have to go there and check things out for yourself." He pressed a piece of paper into Lindsay's hand."Here's the address."

"Thank you, Christian," Ginny said, unable to contain her excitement at the prospect of another solid lead."We'll leave right away."She pulled closed the collar of her coat in anticipation of heading out into the cold."I could just kiss you for how kind you've been."

Ginny blinked, then flushed cherry-red."WellÉ IÉ" Her gaze darted from an open-mouthed Lindsay to the fair-haired man, who was suddenly smiling."Lindsay, I-"

Christian let out a genuine laugh that shook his entire body and caused Ginny to jump."I think it was a figure of speech." He cocked his head to the side and grinned, more than willing to be wrong."Isn't that right, Ginny?"

"Of course it was," he continued, eyes twinkling."Now that that's settled, you should also know that there is no need to rush out of here.Unless the noise in this place is already driving you mad."He raised his voice over the sound of footsteps running down the hall."Though I wasn't exactly able to find out what you were hoping, I am rather good friends with Mr. Ward's secretary and I was able to arrange an appointment for you to speak with Mr. Ward in the morning.It was the best I could do."

Ginny and Lindsay's gazes met, their next plan of action formed in the blink of two sets of determined eyes.

He shrugged and smiled a little."It also happily allows me the opportunity to offer you a room for the night.Three little boys were adopted out last night and since we're expecting four more tomorrow, we haven't bothered to fill the room yet.It's very plain, I'm afraid.But it is clean and the bed has fresh sheets." His gaze strayed out the window."Best of all, no snow."

"Please," he tried again."Those are storm clouds brewing again outside.It would be my pleasure for you to enjoy lunch and supper here as well.Our cook makes a mean stew."He cocked his head to the side and smiled."If you don't mind the absence of meat, that is."

Two little girls, one chasing the other, ran down the hall.Christen tried to grab one of them, but she just giggled louder as she evaded his hands."Girls!"

Ginny and Lindsay had to flatten themselves against the wall to keep from being run into.Lindsay grimaced in pain but said nothing, stepping back into the center once the two tiny whirlwinds had blown by.

Christian chuckled softly and scratched the back of his neck."Sorry about that, ladies.Saturdays are always a little crazy.C'mon now." He gave them both his most charming smile."Don't disappoint me now that I've gone to the trouble of tempting you. I'll throw in a bath all for the same low, low price of nothing at all." Though they hadn't said they would be, he knew they'd be sleeping on the streets if not here and the murder of a local prostitute just the night before still had him very unsettled."Where else can you find a deal like that?"

Lindsay glanced at her friend and shrugged."The decision is yours.I'll follow you anywhere, Ginny."Her lips curled into a genuine smile."But you already knew that."

"I knew that," Ginny confirmed softly, her voice so low and warm that Christian felt his own cheeks heat at the innocent but intimate exchange.Ginny took a moment to consider their options, which weren't many.True, she was anxious to head to the Wards' orphanage, but she couldn't deny that a night out of the cold would help both her and Lindsay regroup.It was, however, the rings around soft brown eyes that sealed their fate for the evening.Ginny was well aware that her friend hadn't slept a wink. That Lindsay had held her all night instead.A pang of affection for Lindsay pierced Ginny's heart.

"Thank you, Christian," the redhead said firmly.She bowed her head politely."We accept your most kind offer."

Lindsay grinned, hearing a confidence in Ginny's voice that had been absent only moments before.Atta girl. She stuck out her hand and the man took it automatically. "I didn't introduce myself before." Her grin turned slightly sheepish."I'm String Bean."

It was well past bedtime at the orphanage, and the corner room on the second floor was quiet and dark except for the faint glow of light allowed in by the bedroom window.Faintly musty but free from dust, the room appeared to be well cared for, though it clearly hadn't seen fresh air since the autumn.It was nearly eight p.m. when Ginny leaned back on the bed on her elbows and groaned out her delight, purposefully tearing her eyes away from Lindsay's naked legs.Stop looking at her like that.She's your friend."Mmm.This bed is soooooooo soft.It feels great, Pumpkin Patch."

Lindsay snorted."From all that moaning and carrying on over there, I can just imagine that it does. And I think a pumpkin is a fruit, not a vegetable."

Ginny shrugged good-naturedly then burrowed a little deeper into the mattress, lying flat on her back. "You're just jealous because I'm all comfortable here and you're standing over there on the cold floor."She fought the urge to remind her dear friend that the doctor had told her she'd be more susceptible to illness than usual now that she had no spleen.She sighed inwardly, reluctantly acknowledging that it wasn't her place to fuss over Lindsay once the woman was capable of taking care of herself, though her instincts were screaming otherwise.

"True," Lindsay murmured honestly from her spot across the small room. Her back to Ginny, she gazed out into the night's sky, absently finger-combing her squeaky-clean, wet hair with one hand."It's really coming down out there." She rubbed a patch on the frosted glass clean with her fingertips.

Both women were dressed in rough-hewn, v-neck cotton nightshirts that reached to mid-thigh, gray woolen socks, and nothing else, courtesy of Christian, who had kindly seen to having their clothes laundered that afternoon. Much to Ginny and Lindsay's relief, he assured them that his laundress had the tightest clothes wringer in the city and that their garments would be dry by morning.

Lindsay idly watched the falling snow.Not a soul was traveling on the road below the window. The normally deep wagon wheel ruts that gouged the streets had been smoothed over by a deep layer of heavy powder that glistened in the lamplight."The streets are going to be horrible tomorrow," she mumbled.

"MmmÉ" Ginny fluffed her pillow, scrunching up her nose as the pillowcase tickled the tender skin on the back of her neck."I expect it will be difficult.But that won't stop us from getting where we need to go."

They held each other's gaze for several long seconds and Ginny could feel her temperature rising at the intense look Lindsay was giving her.Instinctively, she recognized the darkened, heavy-lidded eyes and the slightly erratic rise and fall of Lindsay's chest as poorly veiled desire.Her mouth went dry and she felt a vague ache blossom between her legs.

Ginny climbed beneath the blankets and sheet, yawning, her mind reeling at her own body's response and the fact that deep down inside she not only wanted to see that particular look again, she craved it. But she's a girl! her mind blithered.Still, her reaction was something she didn't think she could ignore.Keep ignoring, she reminded herself.

"Aren't you coming to bed?" Ginny asked, scrubbing what she was sure was a blush off her face.Lindsay was silent for so long that she was forced to glance up from the navy blue blanket and into eyes that twinkled with affection and É fear.

Lindsay frowned a little at Ginny's attentive gaze and, in a moment of uncharacteristic insecurity and despite the fact that she was almost painfully clean, she glanced down at her clothes, then her hands, wondering if Ginny thought she was too dirty to share a bed with.Was she?

Ginny recognized the gesture for what it was and she felt a tiny surge of anger even asher heart sank."I wouldn't turn you away if you'd just crawled out of a pig pen, Lindsay." She smiled what she hoped was an encouraging smile.Lindsay was the most self-assured person she'd ever met."As it is, you're as shiny as a new penny." She inclined her head invitingly. "You don't get a chance at a bed often. C'mon."

A tiny smile edged its way onto Lindsay's face and she slowly padded across the room, passing a wooden cradle and a short three-drawer dresser as she moved.She licked her lips nervously and lifted the blanket and sheet to climb inside, moving over to the very edge of the bed.It was soft and warm and an involuntary sigh escaped her lips.

Ginny rolled over so that she was facing her friend.The bed was narrow. Just like the one I shared with Alice. But her stomach had never done flip-flops when her sister crawled into bed with her. This was very different.Ginny felt as though her senses were magnified; every breath, every heartbeat sounded loud to her ears.The rustling of stiff cotton sheets brushed against skin tingling with sensation and she drew in the scent of lavender soap and wool with every breath.

Lindsay eased over to her side as well, mindful of her ribs as she mimicked Ginny's position.Vibrant eyes gone nearly purple in the light made her smile in pure reaction. She fell into eyes that almost appeared translucent in the dim light and swallowed convulsively."UmmÉ This is nice."

Ginny nodded, feeling most of her nervousness melt away as she absorbed Lindsay's low, husked words. "It is," she softly confirmed.Ginny lifted her hand to gently reach across the space that separated them, moving towards Lindsay's face.

Ginny's hand froze and then she slowly drew it back.Even when they'd first met, Lindsay hadn't seemed so apprehensive of her touch."What's the matter?" she asked, hurt coloring her words. She felt a little ill."You can't think I was going to do something to hurt you?"There was a quiet disappointment in Ginny's voice that made Lindsay's heart twist in her chest.

"No," Lindsay said quickly. "I just umÉ" Her eyes darted around the room, restless and anxious."I usually don't like to be touchedÉ if I don't know it's coming, that is."

"Mmm," Ginny acknowledged.That much she knew was true.She had already suspected that someoneÉ someone whose neck she could wring with her bare hands, had hurt her friend very badly. Oh, Lindsay.

Ginny winced inwardly, her eyes softening. "I'm sorry," she whispered."I should have said something."She gestured with her chin. "I was just going to, well, push back that bit of hair. It was falling in your eyes and-" And I wanted to see your face.The thought came unbidden but for once Ginny didn't fight it."You are so pretty," she said without thinking, her eyes widening when she realized she'd said it out loud.

An expression dropped over Lindsay's face, so cold that Ginny had to fight hard not to shiver."You're making fun of me," Lindsay rasped, clearly wounded.

Ginny shook her head forcefully. "No, I'm not."She scooted closer to her companion, reaching out and grabbing hold of her nightshirt before the spooked woman could bolt from the bed."I wouldn't do that," she insisted gently."You know I wouldn't."

Lindsay's eyes slid shut."How can you think that?" Her voice was the barest of whispers and held a note of self-disgust."Look at you andÉ well, then just look at you." She opened her eyes and pointedly stared at her companion. "We're nothing alike."And she was right.Physically, though they were nearly the same height and close to the same weight, they looked drastically different.

Lindsay's frame appeared long and was covered with a lean layer of hard-earned muscle.To her eyes, the sharp planes of her face were far too harsh and, though her skin was pale, there was an overall darkness to her features that overshadowed her actual coloring. It didn't matter that the scratches on her face had disappeared with time and that the deeper cuts, the ones that had required stitches and had scarred, were well hidden by her clothing.She felt the way she felt, and missing a good portion of her left ear didn't exactly help her badly battered self-image.

Ginny, however, looked exactly the way Lindsay imagined a woman should.Even though she didn't have much weight to spare, there was a softness to her.Her shape was, all at once, feminine, alluring, and oddly maternal.Hope radiated from behind bright, youthful eyes, and deep dimples creased flushed cheeks when she laughed or flashed a heartfelt smile.The lush curves of Ginny's breasts, hips, and bottom were, to Lindsay, as inviting as they were beautiful.

Ginny pressed her fingers to Lindsay's lips to quiet her."I have no idea what you're talking about or where you're getting these crazy ideas." In her rush to comfort her friend, she spoke from her heart, forgetting to be bashful about what was so painfully obvious to her eyes. "You are a beautiful woman, Lindsay, and kind and wonderful.Anyone who told you differently was a liar."

"ShhÉ" Ginny crooned, her voice taking on a more tender note."Just listen to me."Her eyebrows lifted in gentle entreaty."Okay?"

Lindsay swallowed hard, very aware that Ginny had moved closer.She imagined that she could feel the heat of her skin through their nightshirts, the rhythmic warmth of Ginny's breath brushing against her face.She nodded, closing her eyes and drawing in a ragged breath when warm, tentative fingers reached out and delicately traced her eyebrows, then cheeks, stopping only to curl under her chin.

Ginny's heart began to pound.In a bright explosion of clarity, her mind finally caught up with signals from her body and she knew exactly what she wanted to do.She wanted to kiss Lindsay. The thought startled and excited her, and when Lindsay's eyes fluttered open again, she gasped, realizing that while she was nervous she wasn't the least bit afraid."Lindsay?"Ginny's gaze dropped to Lindsay's lips and she imagined their softness against hers.She could hear the darker woman swallow.

"CanÉ Can I kiss you?"A hopeful gaze moved up to meet Lindsay's. "I know I shouldn't." Ginny's voice lowered an octave. "ButÉ But I really want to."

Lindsay thought her heart would pound out of her chest."You did it before," she reminded Ginny, her calm, clear words sounding foreign to her own ears.

A slow smile worked its way across Ginny's face.Lindsay hadn't laughed or been repulsed by her shocking request."MmmÉ I kissed your fingers.I remember."She scooted a tiny bit closer, holding her breath and praying that Lindsay wouldn't move to stop her.

Ginny's eyes widened a little."Really?"She didn't try to hide her delight."Mine too." She ducked her head, a pink flush tinting her skin."Well, except for Alice."

A bolt of jealously lanced through Lindsay before she realized who Ginny was talking about.Her eyebrows crawled up her forehead and stayed."You kissed your sister?" she croaked, the last word a note higher than the others.

"Don't say it like that!It was just one time." Ginny made a face. God, this is embarrassing."She was tired of practicing on her pillow and nervous about seeing John, her beau.And she wanted toÉ wellÉ"

"Try it on a real pair of lips," Lindsay ventured.She was starting to enjoy the way her friend was squirming.

"Yes." Ginny suddenly had a hideous thought and her jaw worked a few times before she could managed to utter a word."You won't tell anyone, will you?"

"I dunno," Lindsay hedged, her own nervousness forgotten."I was planning on taking an ad out in the."

"BuÉ BuÉ you ca-" Ginny's eyes turned to slits when it finally hit home that she was being teased."That was not nice!ButÉ" The corner of her mouth quirked and she reluctantly admitted,"It was funny."

"You would."Then Ginny recalled what had started this entirely embarrassing conversation and she wouldn't be distracted."So can I?"Oh, please.

"Kiss me?"Suddenly, Lindsay remembered why her heart had been in her throat only seconds before.

"Does that mean you don't want to kiss meÉ because I'm a girl."Ginny crossed her fingers and toes.

Lindsay blushed.Badly."No," she said softly."I mean, it's okay that you're a girl.That's good.Very good.And you're sweet too.And-"

Lindsay suddenly clamped her mouth shut aware she was rambling."ErrÉ yes?" she said from between clenched teeth.

Ginny looked at her fondly, her heart swelling with every passing second."I can't kiss you if you're babbling."

With exaggerated slowness, Ginny lifted her head from the bed.To her surprise, Lindsay mirrored her actions, dark hair shifting as she moved.When their noses were almost touching and she could feel Lindsay's uneven breaths as though they were her very own, Ginny tilted her head just a fraction.Two sets of eyes closed and tentative, trembling lips brushed against each other with gentle passion.

The contact was brief and sweet and so tender that it made up for a lifetime of harshness in those few seconds alone. Lindsay's tongue briefly drew across Ginny's silky lower lip before she pulled away, a breathy sigh escaping her.

When the kiss ended, Ginny's eyes remained closed for a handful of heartbeats, as though she was in a trance.Then they popped open, brimming with wonder.Her blood sang through her veins and the urge to reclaim those silken lips was nearly more than she could bear.She touched her mouth in simple awe, tracing the moistness of her lips.Oh, my God.

"WaÉ" Lindsay had to stop and collect herself before she could continue. The simple gesture had rocked her to the core."Was that okay?"

Okay? Ginny smiled brilliantly."That was very okay, Lindsay.I've-" She shook her head in confusion."I don't know what to say," she whispered. "I didn't know it would feel like that."She sat up a little, not trusting herself to keep from moving to repeat the wonderful experience."I didn't think it would be like that."Wow.

Lindsay cursed her own clumsiness. "I'm sorry," she said self-consciously, her face creasing into a worried scowl."I thoughtÉ I haven't everÉI never wanted to before, but with you I did and I meanÉUgh!"

Ginny giggled nervously, letting her fingers trail down Lindsay's arm, punctuating the motion with a gentle squeeze when she reached a slender wrist."No. No. No.You don't understand."She cupped Lindsay's cheek, enjoying the warmth against her palm, inordinately pleased that Lindsay hadn't so much as blinked at the gesture.I don't want to stop touching you.So she didn't.Boldly, she traced Lindsay's slightly askew nose with a single, gentle finger, feeling the bump where it had so recently been broken.She smiled at the contented sigh that greeted her actions."The kiss was beautiful."She gazed into the dark eyes so close to hers for confirmation."Wasn't it, Lindsay?"

Ginny smiled again and eased back onto her side.She dropped her hand from Lindsay's face, missing the feeling of smooth skin instantly.She felt giddy and tired and happy and as though the small space between them was far too much.Ginny shifted her pillow until it touched Lindsay's.She peeked up at her friend from beneath rusty-red lashes. "Is this-?"

Lindsay laughed fondly.I want to be close to you too."It's good."She lay down facing Ginny, their heads only inches apart."Good night, Ginny," she murmured, her mind spinning with possibilities, first and foremost of which was, when could they do that again.

The younger woman's hand inched forward and she threaded her fingers through Lindsay's. I kissed her! Her eyes slid shut, a wide, obnoxiously happy smile still gracing her face."Good night, Lindsay."

There would be time for questions and insecurities, doubts and fears, to rear their ugly heads-later.

The following morning, however, when the sun spilled into the small room in an orphanage in Queens, it found two young women fitted snugly together, warm, safe, and dreaming of sweet kisses yet to come.

Ginny yawned, keeping her eyes firmly closed.She could feel the warmth of Lindsay's body pressed tightly to hers and the kiss from the night before came flooding back to her, sending a jolt of swirling heat to her belly.Reluctantly, she opened her eyes to find Lindsay's unfocused eyes watching her, an intent, almost curious look on her face."What are you thinking?" Ginny asked, her voice still hoarse from sleep.

Something snapped behind dark eyes and in an instant Lindsay was drawn into the present."IÉ I dunno.I was just daydreaming, I guess." She smiled hesitantly, already wondering if the kiss they shared last night would go unacknowledged.

They could hear the rustle of activity outside their room, but the day before Christian had assured them that getting thirty children dressed and ready for the day meant that breakfast wouldn't be served until nearly eight a.m. They had time, and Ginny didn't want to waste the intimacy she could feel flowing between them on idle chatter."Tell me about your family," she urged cautiously, well aware that her previous inquiries had been met with humorous quips meant more to distract than inform. C'mon, Lindsay.Let me know you.

Lindsay drew in a deep breath, not especially surprised by the question.Ginny was the curious sort and she hadn't missed her gentle probing over their time together.It wasn't really that her past was secret.Not at all.There just wasn't much to tell, and a part of her thought that maybe Ginny would find the mystery of not knowing more intriguing than the plain truth.She exhaled, defeated by the hopeful, blue eyes gazing into hers."What would you like to know?"

"Why are you all alone, Lindsay?" Ginny's eyes filled with unexpected tears and her throat felt tight. "I can't bear the thought of you not having anyone."She ached for Lindsay in a way she never had for another. And while the rail-rider never seemed outright unhappy with her life, there were times when Ginny could feel the neediness in Lindsay's heart tearing at her own soul.No one should be alone.

Ginny quickly realized her error."Not at all.I didn't mean it that way.You have me," she assured before Lindsay could say anything else.There was a resoluteness to her voice that wormed its way into Lindsay's heart, quelling her fears."But is there truly no one else?"She knew how she hurt over the loss of her own kin.Did Lindsay feel the same way?

"No one." Lindsay swallowed thickly, a little surprised that the thought held only an echo of real pain.But that saying the words out loud, somehow made it seem much worse.More real.

"Why?You told me you've been on your own since you were twelve years old.That's just not right, Lindsay!"

"ShhhÉ" Lindsay brushed away Ginny's tears.Tears that were for her.Will wonders never cease? "Let me tell you."She tugged affectionately on a strand of Ginny's hair.

"I'm afraid you'll be a little disappointed.I don't have a very interesting story."

Without asking, Lindsay leaned forward and brushed her lips against Ginny's, hearing Ginny's surprised gasp then a whimper as the contact continued and she gently deepened the kiss, swirling her warm tongue around her friend's.She moaned.

The kiss tapered off naturally and Lindsay pressed her forehead to Ginny's.Both the young women's breathing was slightly ragged."I've been wanting to do that since I woke up," she whispered."Was that all right?"

"God, yes," Ginny breathed, a little unsettled but mostly excited by her body's response.

"I've been corrupted." Ginny lifted her chin and nibbled Lindsay's lower lip.I could do this forever, her mind whispered."But I won't be put off." Regretfully, she gave Lindsay a final peck and then settled back onto her pillow, promising herself that there would be time for more kisses later.

Lindsay chuckled."I already knew that about you, Ginny.Okay, my life story such as it is.Everything that I know.Are you sure you want the entire boring story?"

"My mother is or maybe wasÉ" Lindsay paused for a moment."I'm not really sure which.Anyway, she was from an affluent family in Montreal.Her name is Suzette Mourier."

Lindsay smiled indulgently.Trying to keep Ginny quiet was as useless as fighting the tide. "Half French," she corrected."My father's name was Jack Killian-he came over from Ireland during the War Between the States."

Lindsay shifted in the bed, getting more comfortable."Da was a laborer for a lumber yard in Plymouth, and he met my mother when her parents brought her with them on a business trip to Pennsylvania.She was a teenager, pretty from all accounts.He was nearly forty and the roguish sort, if you know what I mean."

"I don't know.Da never said." Lindsay pulled the sheet up a little higher and Ginny scooted closer until they were touching all along their bodies, jointly warding off the morning chill. "She was only in the States for a week and, because of the difference in their ages and social classes, they met secretly every day when Da finished work.Da asked her to stay in Plymouth when it came time for her to go, but she refused."

Can someone fall in love that quickly?You know the answer to that, Ginny's heart chided.She wondered what Lindsay thought about that and asked, "Were they in love?"

"My mother returned to Plymouth six months later, alone after being thrown out of the house by her parents, and very pregnant. They married.I was born."

Ginny sighed and tried to lighten the mood by mumbling, "Some storyteller you are."

A smile eased over Lindsay's face. "Toldja." Then she became more somber."My mother was always unhappy.Always.And even in the best of times, Da never did more than eke out a living.Mother went back to Canada when I was four, and I've never seen or heard from her since."

"Oh, Lindsay."Ginny closed her eyes, furious with a woman she'd never met, her heart crying out for her friend who'd missed so much."That's awful."

"Not really."Lindsay tried to shrug but it wasn't possible with Ginny plastered to her side."I don't really remember her, other than the fact that she had brown eyes."

Lindsay nodded."Like me.Da's were the color of cornflowers," with an effort, she turned onto her side and tweaked Ginny's nose, "like yours."

"Da was never the same after she left.Over the next few years he lost his job at the lumber yard then slowly he started staying out all night.He never drank or beat me or anything like that.He just wasn't there.No one bothered to make me go to school or do much of anything.And by the time I was ten or so he'd be gone for days at a time."Her brow creased and she wondered for the millionth time where he'd disappeared to. Deep in her heart she wondered if it wasn't Canada to visit her mother.Maybe the reason her mother had left had been her and never her father.

"Days?" Ginny could scarcely believe it."You were just a little girl.How did you survive?"How could any man do that?Even Arthur, who had been a dreamer and a drinker-a dangerous mix-had loved his children and stepchildren.Ginny always knew that.Always.

Lindsay's voice was flat, as though it was someone else's life that she was talking about."We lived on the outskirts in a shanty town mostly full of drunkards, kids, and veterans who couldn't work because of broken bodies or minds.I learned from a boy who lived a few shacks down that I could jump on one of the passing trains and hitch a ride into the city."

She wistfully recalled the feeling of freedom she felt the first time she'd tried it. How the wind ruffled her long dark hair and the endless miles of tracks stretched invitingly before her-taking her away from where she was-promising her an unknown future that had to be better than her present. "So I did it.In the city, I worked selling fly paper and matches to buy food.Men liked buying from little girls and I sold more than the boys my age who were just as hungry."

"It's all right," Lindsay whispered tenderly."There's not much more to tell.In '85 the Typhoid epidemic hit Plymouth."She closed her eyes."I had been living on the streets in the city for nearly a week, not bothering to go home, when I finally decided to make my way back in the middle of the night.The shantytown was deathly quiet. And I knew something was wrong." And the smell.God.It turned her stomach just remembering."I found Da on the davenportÉ he was hunched over and pale as a ghost.He was-" her voice cracked and she stopped.

No.I can't think about it.I won't get through the tellin'."He was dead.Musta come home while I was gone.Most of the neighbors were sick or dead themselves, so I gathered up a few things and hopped onto the next train east.I never went back."

"Nah," Lindsay scoffed, though the idea wasn't a foreign one."I didn't have an address, and even if I did, she had plenty of years to contact meÉ to get to know me. She chose not to.Besides, she was no goddamned mother to me.And Da wasn't much better. I raised myself."And a fine job you did, too, thief.

A quiet anger filled Ginny."You shouldn't have had to do that, Lindsay.No child should."

"It's in the past, Ginny.Fretting now can't change a damn thing." Lindsay suddenly sat up, got out of bed, and marched across the room.With her back to her friend, she stepped into her trousers, which she found piled in the doorway.The laundress must have left them there last night. She cursed the tears she could feel welling in her eyes.

Ginny followed Lindsay, crossing the room and watching as the rail-rider's back stiffened in reaction.Without hesitation, she wrapped her arms around Lindsay from behind, hugging her as tightly as she dared.She felt the involuntary flinch run through the lean form in her arms, and knew there was more to talk about.But not now.She pressed her face against Lindsay's shoulder and whispered, "I'm so, so sorry. You aren't alone anymore, Lindsay."

Lindsay's shoulders began to helplessly shake as silent sobs racked her, years of pent up grief bubbling to the surface. Her knees felt weak and she felt Ginny supporting most of her weight in response.

At nine a.m. sharp Ginny and Lindsay stood on the sidewalk outside a three-story brick building.A bronze plaque near the front door read:

Ginny twitched her skirt.She turned to Lindsay."What if they tell us the kids aren't here?"

Lindsay kicked a bit of snow from her shoe."We'll find out for ourselves, Ginny.There are ways.If I have to, I'll sneak into the orphanage at night and check every God damn bed."

Fifty minutes later and both young women were still waiting outside Mr. Ward's office.Then, just when Lindsay had lost all patience and was about to push her way inside, the office door opened and a tall, thin man emerged, his shiny black shoes clicking on the wooden floors.He was rail thin and in his middle forties, with black curly hair shaved close to his head on the sides and left longer on top, and thick, mutton chop sideburns.His dark green eyes were close set and nearly obscured by a tuft of bushy eyebrows.The man's gaze flicked briefly to Ginny and Lindsay, dismissing them, before traveling to his secretary.

"Wendell?" Mr. Ward questioned."Who are theseÉ. Who are they?" His tone was firm, Wendell knew better than to waste his time with beggars.His gaze slid sideways. Adult beggars at that.

Wendell was a large, round black man with tiny hands so smooth and feminine that Ginny found herself a little jealous.Unconsciously, she pushed her own scarred hands into her coat pockets.

Wendell jumped to his feet, taking care to set down his ink pen carefully despite his jittery hands."This is Miss Chisholm andÉandÉ herÉ. uhhÉ."He threw a panicked look Ginny's way.

Ginny mouthed Ôfriend' and Wendell repeated the word to Mr. Ward."They're your nine a.m. appointment, sir.A referral from Mr. Spence; I cleared it with you yesterday."

"Spence," Mr. Ward spat the name as though it was a curse,"should know better than to bother me on a Sunday." But he had accepted the appointment, assuming it had something to do with the investigation of his foundation.And now the time he'd spent in his office, making his opponent wait, had been nothing more than a waste.With jerky motions, he pulled his pocket watch from his vest and frowned at the time. He finally looked up at Ginny and Lindsay. "Won't you come into my office?You have a few moments before my next appointment."

Lindsay rolled her eyes, but refrained from comment as they were led into a plush office.Inside, a tiny woman in an expensive green dress with brightly colored feathers woven through its lapel sat behind a large mahogany desk, which was strategically placed in the very center of the room.She looked to be nearly the same age as Mr. Ward with lines around her eyes marking her age.An enormous pile of golden curls sat atop her head, bouncing a little as she drew in a deep breath to speak."Jeremiah-?" Her gaze lifted from the ledger book in front of her.When she saw who was accompanying her husband, she froze.

Isabelle Ward lifted a pale eyebrow at Ginny and Lindsay.With a slight turn of her head, her second rapidly lifting eyebrow was directed at Mr. Ward.

"They were sent here by Christian Spencer," he clarified, clearly annoyed that he'd agreed to the meeting in the first place.

Isabelle sighed."I see."She stepped out from behind the desk, deciding to dispense with this meeting as quickly as possible."I'm Isabelle Ward." She smiled a sugary smile."How can we help you?"

Ginny cleared her throat, suddenly nervous in the presence of these two imposing figures.

Ginny's mouth worked but no sound emerged for several seconds."No," she announced crisply, surprising everyone in the room.Suddenly she was very tired that she was having to go through all this to reclaim her family. She'd done nothing wrong. "An orphan is someone who has no one to raise them.That's not the case with my siblings."

"HmmÉ" Isabelle tapped her chin."I see.Pity we can't help you. Your brothers and sister aren't here."She pushed herself off the desk."Now if you'll excuse us. We have work-"

"Do you know Lt. Robert O'Mally of the 111^th Manhattan Police Precinct?" Lindsay asked loudly.

Three heads snapped towards her and Ginny's eyes widened.What are you doing?There is no 111^th Police Precinct in Manhattan!

Jeremiah Ward took a step closer to Lindsay, studying her with a critical eye. "I'm afraid we don't, MÉ" He waited for Lindsay to supply her name.

Lindsay crossed her arms over her chest."We spoke with him yesterday. It seems he was at the scene of the fire at 84 Orchard Street several weeks ago.And he personally saw an employee of yours load the Robson children into a wagon.Are you saying you did not take them into custody for your care?"

"That's exactly what I'm saying," Isabelle snapped.Who was this person to question her?

Lindsay scratched her jaw."If they weren't properly taken, and aren't under the care of your orphanage, then I'd say we need to report a kidnapping by this agency " She turned to Ginny whose mouth had dropped open."Wouldn't you, Ginny?"

The redhead's brain kicked into gear and she mimicked Lindsay's defiant stance."I would.We know you have them."Please, God, let us be right.

"Hold on just a minute!" Isabelle's gaze flickered with anger that melted into rage when she saw that both young women were deadly serious.

"Wait.Wait."Mr. Ward held up both hands."Let us check our records again, won't you?"He grabbed his wife's arm and retreated behind the large desk, whispering in her ear the entire time.He pulled out a thick book from the bottom drawer and thumbed through until he had reached the last page that contained any visible writing."Robson, you say?" he asked Ginny, glancing up.

Mr. Ward nodded."Yes, it seems we wereÉ in error before.We did collect three orphans," he emphasized the word, causing Ginny's back to stiffen, "from a burned-out slum. Our records indicate both their parents were killed along with an older sister." Next, he slid open the drawer of a deep-red, mahogany file cabinet that sat alongside his desk, pulling out a stack of certificates.He took the one that was second in the pile and handed it to Ginny.

Isabelle smiled cruelly."In case you can't read, Miss Chisholm, that certificate was issued by the State of New York, giving us full custody of Jane, James, and Lewis Robson." It was dated two days after the fire.

"How could this happen so quickly?" Ginny handed back the heavy paper, her hand shaking."They have family.You can't just turn them out to strangers!"

"Not according to the State of New York." Mr. Ward made a show of raking his eyes over Ginny's plain dress."And even if they did have family, which you have not adequately proven, that person would have to be able to demonstrate that they qualify to be the children's guardian." He smirked."You have to be at least eighteen years old for that."

"Uh huh."It was clear neither Isabelle nor Mr. Ward believed that lie.Jeremiah rubbed his heavy sideburns."And even if she were eighteen, she'd have to demonstrate that she could support the children."

Ginny visibly winced.She had known that would be an impediment, but had hoped that the State would allow her time to get a job.Two if she had to.

A victorious smile tugged at the corner of Isabelle's mouth."If you husband had accompanied you, we might have been able to assist you."

"You're not married?"Isabelle gaze softened for just a split second before turning to granite."Did you really expect that three small children would be handed over to an unmarried girl with no visible means of support?Foolish child."

"Get out of this office," Mr. Ward ordered them plainly, pointing a thick finger towards the door."You've wasted enough of our valuable time." He made a shooing motion with his hand."And be glad that a stupid farmer somewhere is shouldering the burden that you so clearly cannot."

Lindsay took a menacing step towards Mr. Ward."Where are they?"Her voice was a dangerous growl, and the tall man actually took a step backwards from the sound alone."Answer me!"Lindsay curled her good hand into a tight fist.

Jeremiah backed up until his shoulders hit the cool, paneled wood wall.Lindsay followed him step for step.His face paled.

"I won't ask you again," Lindsay warned, her violent intent clear as she leaned so close to Mr. Ward she could smell the salty bacon he'd had for breakfast on his breath.

"What does that mean?"Ginny stalked across the room, shouldering her way between Lindsay and Mr. Ward."Where?Where are they?"

The man wiped his forehead with the back of his hand, regaining a bit of his equilibrium now that he wasn't facing Lindsay, who to his eyes resembled a rabid dog, ready to strike.He glanced over at his wife who was shooting him daggers.Shame washed over him."What does it matter?" he told her."What's done is done."He refocused on Ginny."They were put on an orphan train heading west nearly three weeks ago.The train hasn't returned, so I can't say where or by whom they were adopted."

"And even if we did know," Isabelle piped up, moving to the wall to stand next to her husband.Discreetly, she brushed her fingers against his hand.But when he moved to grasp hers, her hands just as casually moved away. "The adoptions would still be binding, and irrevocable."

"Irrevocable?" Ginny whispered incredulously."How can that be?I'm their sister!" She all but bared her teeth in a snarl."You as good as stole those children.No one checked to see if they had family." Her eyes darkened."No one did anything at all, did they?You just collected them to sell them off to the highest bidder."

Lindsay's powerful hand darted out and long fingers wrapped themselves around the man's skinny neck."You won't do a damn thing." Each word was said slowly, giving Mr. Ward ample time to digest them."We'll go to the papers.We'll stand in front of this building if we have to.You won't see another dime in donations once the press gets a whiff that this place is nothing more than a trussed up child farm."

Perspiration trickled down Lindsay's forehead and she tightened her grip until Jeremiah's eyes began to bulge."You filthy pig.I should break your neck this very instant." Her heart began to pound and in her mind's eye she could see herself squeezing the life out of this man who had so casually shattered Ginny's family.Then a hand on her back, moving in a slow steady circle, caused her to go very still.She remained motionless except for her heaving chest and raging eyes that flicked sideways, their gaze landing on Ginny's face.

"No," Ginny said simply. Her heart was slamming against her ribs with such force that she was surprised she hadn't passed out.Outwardly, however, she appeared perfectly calm.She wasn't sure what frightened her more, what Lindsay was doing or that she'd seriously contemplated not trying to stop her.

Lindsay's eye twitched involuntarily and she drew in a shaky breath.Slowly, her grip on Mr. Ward's now sweaty throat relaxed and she took a step backwards, adrenaline coursing through her and threatening to send her to her knees.

Her expression wasn't lost on Mr. Ward and the resulting look he gave Lindsay was one of pure hatred."IÉ I'll have you arrested for that, bitch."

Now she understood, and Ginny dismissed Mr. Ward with a look of her own, focusing instead on who was really in charge of The Foundling Placement Society."We'll be back, Mrs. Ward.I won't give up on my family.Ever."

Isabelle nodded just the tiniest bit and something wordless passed between them, an acknowledgement of sorts.Women at cross-purposes.Enemies, Ginny's gut whispered in warning.

Lindsay wrapped her arm around Ginny's shoulder and the two young women exited the office with hurried steps.Ginny's pallor told Lindsay that she was about to throw up.And Lindsay would be damned straight to hell before she'd give the Wards the satisfaction of knowing they'd rattled her friend so.She admitted to herself that she was feeling much better.Her rage at Mr. Ward had flared so quickly that she wasn't sure she could have stopped it even if she'd wanted to.

Ginny and Lindsay were barely out of the office when Isabelle moved to her desk and pressed a button.Within seconds, a rather nondescript young man entered the office through a side door.

"Find out about the brunette," Mr. Ward commanded brusquely, still fussing with his collar."I want to know everything.I'll take care of finding out about Miss Chisholm myself."

There was a pause in the conversation and the young man shifted from one foot to the other, unsure of whether he should leave now or wait for further instruction.

The office door slammed shut, its boom echoing in Jeremiah's ears.He turned to his wife."Bella, what if that bitch..." Isabelle knew which one he was referring to.The one who had left with his balls in her pocket."What if what she said is trueÉ that they'd go to the press?"

"Then it's all over," Isabelle said.Keeping the investigation of their foundation out of the papers had proven nearly impossible already, not to mention ridiculously expensive. Donations came in from the wealthy who wanted to be associated with a trendy charity. Public perception meant everything.One bad article at this critical time would be like a strong gust of wind to a house of cards.

Jeremiah threw his hands in the air."Those children won't make us a dime; we only added them to the bunch going out West for appearances' sake anyway.They're too young to command a price. Couldn't we just find the brats and turn them over to Miss Chisholm?"

"And have the newly adopted parents do exactly what those girls are threatening to do by going to the press?" She shook her head."No.Besides, what's to keep Miss Chisholm from going to the Press anyway?"Isabelle rubbed her throbbing temples.She could feel a migraine coming on.

Slowly, waiting to be rebuked, her husband moved his hands to her shoulders and gently rubbed them. He sighed when she permitted his touch. "What then, Bella?"

Isabelle closed her eyes, and leaned into his hands.She loved her husband, but he was insufferably weak."SomethingÉ more permanent may have to be arranged."I've worked too hard to let two mangy street urchins ruin it all.

Jeremiah nodded and continued his massage, smart enough not to question his wife on such matters.

The younger woman had been beside herself ever since they'd left The Foundling Placement Society Office."I'm too late," Ginny whispered in anguish.They carefully traversed the icy sidewalk, often having to venture into the street to move around small groups of people, apple sellers pushing their rattling carts, or merchandise displays that hogged the sidewalks even in the winter. "My God, they could be anywhere."She suddenly felt as though she couldn't breathe, the enormity of trying to find three small children Ôout West' hitting her like a sledgehammer.

"Ginny," Lindsay said, in as soothing a voice as she could muster. "It doesn't matter where they are.We'll still find them. You have to truly believe that or we're wasting our time and might as well stop right now."

Ginny's head snapped sideways, her face showing every ounce of the incredulity that she felt.Her feet froze, and a man who had been walking behind them grumbled an insincere apology when he bumped into Lindsay, then stepped around her and disappeared into the pedestrian traffic."Stop?Never, Lindsay," Ginny hissed, resuming her steps at a slightly faster pace than before, her feet crunching on the crusty snow.She tucked her chin down into the warmth of her coat, murmuring into the scratchy wool that smelled faintly damp, the snow on it having had time to thaw while she was inside. "I meant what I told that horrible woman.I'll never stop looking for them."I mean to keep my promise, Alice.Wherever you are, you know that, don't you?

Lindsay nodded, having heard enough for there to be no doubt about Ginny's intentions. Not that she'd ever really had any concerns to begin with. But after receiving the sort of bad news they just had, she figured Ginny could use a little reminding herself. "Then let's figure out where to go from here."

"Well, we only know one person who seems to be an expert on this orphan train business."

Lindsay exhaled slowly, sending a stream of fog into the air, as her mind raced ahead to what she knew they'd have to do.We're going to be following that train, Ginny.And for that we'll need some traveling money, even if we hitch most of the way. She mentally sneered.And I know just where to get it."Then that's our next stop, The Society for the Betterment of Children Orphanage."

Christian Spence shifted uncomfortably on the davenport in the study of his orphanage as he looked into Ginny's confused face. "I don't know what to say other than I'm sorry. I was truly hoping the children wouldn't have been sent out West yet.I'd hoped that, if that were the case and if you kicked up a fuss, it wouldn't be worth it for the Wards to fight you for the children."His eyes conveyed deep sadness over his next statement.Child welfare was his passion."It's not like there aren't plenty more orphans where they came from.Jeremiah and Isabelle do work quickly."He shook his head."I'll give them that."

Lindsay closed her eyes.She was afraid of this.God, this day has just turned to shit. GinnyÉ. Her mind paused as she savored the myriad of emotions just the name alone brought. My friend, so sweet and kind, you're the first person I've met whose luck was as piss poor as mine.We make quite a pair.

"Ladies," Christian's voice was tinged with regret, "if they showed you a certificate of guardianship awarded by the State then I'm afraid they have every right to do what they're doing."

"BuÉ But you said they were selling children," Ginny sputtered.She tightened her grip on the hand she was holding-Lindsay's."That can't be legal."She knew the words came out louder than she'd intended by the slight widening of Lindsay and Christian's eyes.

"Yes, yes, that is illegal."Christian patted Ginny's knee."But what I believe they're doing is selling older children as laborers.Your siblings are undoubtedly part of the few they take in to keep up the appearance of a legitimate organization.It's highly unlikely that those adoptions would be nullified wholesale.They would be looked at on a case by case basis."

Ginny stood angrily and Lindsay joined her. "Are you trying to tell me that the fact that my brothers and sisters were stolen out from under me and sent West was somehow legitimate?"That can't be true.

Christian licked his lips and nodded quickly."Of course. When you find them, you can petition the State to have their adoptions nullified on the grounds that a reasonable attempt at placement within the family wasn't made.I'm sure the children themselves explained they had a living sister."

Ginny nodded glumly, her anger bleeding away. "Lewis and James wouldn't let this happen without a fight."She smiled wryly, thinking of James, an old soul for such a young child, intelligent and willful; and Lewis, who was boisterous and loving, but just as headstrong as his twin."I suspect they were more than a handful."

Christian relaxed a little now that it was clear that Ginny wasn't going to shoot the messenger. "I have a lawyer friend who I'm sure would take on your case pro bono."

"That means for free," Christian clarified delicately, not wanting the young women to be feel stupid."I only learned the word myself recently."He winked."I'm afraid it's become one of my favorites."His face sobered a bit as he weighed whether or not to mention more potential obstacles.His internal debate, however, was a quick one. These women were serious and knowledge was power. "You do understand that finding them is only the first step.If you expect to take legal custody," the words were said slowly and pointedly and the implication was clear-legal, while preferred, was only one way to do things- "there are guardianship requirements?"

"The Wards made those very clear," Lindsay told him, her mind already spinning scenarios in which she could help Ginny financially.Unfortunately, they all included her having a dime to spare. Which she didn't.

Ginny swallowed hard.She wasn't very far from her eighteenth birthday so the age requirement, at least in her mind, was a non-issue.Besides, her parents were dead, she'd been born at home and never had a birth certificate. And she'd changed schools so frequently, sometimes attending one for only a few weeks before moving, that she doubted any records were kept on her at all. Money, however, was going to be a problem."I understand I'll need to meet an age and financial requirement."

"Yes. I'm glad you understand.And of course, you'll have to be deemed morally fit," Christian said absently. "But of course that won't be an issue. It's mainly to ensure the children don't end up with criminals, those who fail to understand the importance of Christian teachings, and perverts."

Lindsay looked at Ginny and the redhead glanced back, biting her lower lip. Then, unaccountably, they both blushed beet red.

Christian blinked."IsÉ well, is there something I should know in order to help you?" He looked back and forth between Ginny and Lindsay and, impossibly, their blushes deepened.

Out of the blue, Lindsay exploded."Assholes have children every single day!In fact, some folks do nothing but breed more assholes.The world is full of assholes.They can treat their kids like shit, beat 'em, or stay dead drunk for a solid month, and the State of New York, which can, might I add, kiss my ass to begin with, won't do a God damn thing.These children are Ginny's family. She's not some stranger who wants to take them.I don't see how this is anybody's business but hers!"Lindsay was on a roll. "And as for all these requirements-"

"Lindsay?" Ginny said softly, chewing the inside of her cheek to keep from laughing at her friend's colorful tirade.

"Oh." Lindsay cleared her throat a little sheepishly."I meanÉ errÉ" She focused on a red-faced Christian."You know everything you need to know, but we appreciate the information."A gentle squeeze of her hand from Ginny was her reward.

Christian coughed a couple of times.Then he leaned a little closer to Lindsay and whispered so that Ginny couldn't hear his shocking admission."This isn't the first time that these walls have heard someone curse the State of New York."

Lindsay fought not to smirk or roll her eyes.She examined Christian with a curious eye, finding his statement hard to believe.He was, she suspected, exactly the wholesome do-gooder type he appeared to be, genuine and kind, the go-to-church-three-times-a-week-and-take-a-bath-just-as-often sort.But it wasn't as if she was going to argue the point, so she just shrugged and amiably said, "If you say so."She felt her heart pick up a little in anticipation of what she had to do next.

Lindsay didn't dare look at Ginny as she continued to address the blond man. "I have to take care of some business this afternoon."Now for the hard part. "Maybe Ginny could stay here and talk with Megan again? Or those two boys from her building? She was so good with them before."

Ginny's voice was incredulous."You're dumping me for the afternoon?" She never said she had someplace to be today. Never once.

Lindsay sighed.Ginny was nothing if not direct. "Awww, Ginny, I wouldn't put it that way.Exactly."

"You never mentioned this before.Why not?" Red brows knitted."Where are you going?" Bewildered, a feeling of general unease began gnawing at her guts.

An annoyed look flitted across Lindsay's face.She didn't want to lie but Ginny was making it so damn hard. "Look," she finally risked a glance at Ginny's face, "I just have something to take care of, that's all. Some old friends I was thinking of meeting up with."She forced herself to stop fidgeting."C'mon, Ginny, it's not like we're joined at the hip or anything.I still have a life."The words were barely out of her mouth when she realized her error."I won't be long," she added in a rush, her eyes pleading with Ginny to understand that she hadn't meant that the way it sounded.The surprised, hurt look on Ginny's face nearly made her give up the entire idea.But Lindsay held firm.

"I'm glad that you do," Lindsay answered, but didn't move to leave. Instead, she just stood there awkwardly, not wanting to go with Ginny angry, but at the same time unwilling to explain herself.

Ginny remained silent as well.She had, she knew, no claim on Lindsay's time. Still, she didn't appreciate being passed to Christian like a troublesome puppy who needed to be watched while Lindsay was out of the room.Her eyes took on an inner fire that screamed, ÔI'm a grown woman who can take care of herself, Lindsay!Deal with it.'

The tension between the young women grew until Christian couldn't take it anymore. He gallantly jumped to the rescue. "I'd be most honored if Ginny would stay for the afternoon and join me for lunch.She can meet with the children afterwards, and I would be most pleased to fill her in on how the adoption process on these orphan trains works. If that's acceptable, that is." He looked questioningly at Lindsay, not because he sought her approval over Ginny's, but because she was closer.A split second later, when his gaze swung to Ginny, he realized his grave error. Ginny's eyes shot him so full of daggers the man was honestly surprised he wasn't bleeding.

Lindsay smiled gratefully at Christian."I'll be back before dark."She slipped her arms into her coat, pretending to be too occupied in her task to notice the angry flush of Ginny's cheeks."Then we can find a place to stay for the night."

"Please," Christian insisted, "I don't have a proper bedroom to offer you tonight, but you can bunk down in my office or here in the parlor.We can put blankets on the floor and-"

"Thank you, Christian," Lindsay accepted quickly, not giving Ginny a chance to say differently.

Wordlessly, her face a mixture of anger and confusion, Ginny stomped out of the room, slamming the door on her way out.

Lindsay and Christian both jumped at the sound, and the pictures on the walls rattled helplessly."Oh, boy," Lindsay muttered, rubbing her forehead with the fingertips of one hand.

The man stuck his hands in his pockets and rocked back on his heels."You will be careful, won't you?"

Christian snorted to himself."Just be careful.I suspect whatever it is you're going to do is something I wouldn't really want to know about anyway, correct?"

"Probably," Lindsay admitted, a little surprised.Maybe the man was more savvy than she'd given him credit for."Frankly, I can't believe I'm doing it myself."

It was on the tip of his tongue to tell her that maybe she should just stay here then, but he didn't.Ginny was already madder than a wet cat, and by any estimation, one angry woman was more than enough to deal with. "If she doesn't punch me in the nose for my efforts, I'll try to keep Ginny busy this afternoon so she doesn't spend it watching the clock."And stewing about being separated from you.

Lindsay's mouth curled into a grateful, lop-sided grin.Sometimes, she admitted, you find allies in the strangest places.Now, String Bean, you get your ass back here this afternoon in one piece so that you can explain things to Ginny yourself.She extended her hand to Christian."I owe you one."

"Nonsense," the man scoffed good-naturedly, giving her hand a firm shake. "One can never have too many friends. And helping my friends is always my pleasure.If you'll excuse me now, I have another friend to attend to, who I fear is not very happy with me at the moment."

"You and me both, buddy," she mumbled unhappily, as she stepped out into the hall.

Across the street and down a few buildings from the orphanage, Delano restlessly paced the sidewalk, trying his best to stay warm.His alert eyes never left the Society for the Betterment of Children's doorway as he waited for his quarry to emerge.

The last of the afternoon sun was just beginning to disappear when Lindsay carefully approached the alleyway.Even if she left now she wouldn't make it back to the orphanage until well after she'd told Ginny to expect her.This was her last stop and if she didn't find them here, she'd be forced to admit that she simply couldn't find them at all.At least today.She'd hitched a ride on several trains as she searched, and her ribs and fingers ached from jumping in and out of boxcars that usually posed no problem at all.

The temperature had risen to a few degrees above freezing and the afternoon sun had begun to melt the heavy layers of ice that blanketed nearly every surface. Long icicles that hung from the buildings' gutters and roofs shone blue in the shifting light, their constant dripping making it sound as though the city was being drenched in steady rain. Shallow puddles of smelly water had formed on the sidewalks and streets, and Lindsay waded through them gingerly, knowing that sometimes ice still lay hidden beneath.The last thing she wanted was to jar herself with an unexpected fall.

"Fine. Fine," Albert conceded ungraciously, throwing his coins on the ground with a petulant hand.

The alley was lined with crates, strewn with stinking garbage and empty metal drums that had rusted beyond use.Lindsay hid behind one as she watched the men shoot craps.

"Dammit.Snake eyes," Jacque hissed, kicking his coins closer to Albert. "Pick Ôem up, fat fuck."

A fourth man stood behind Albert, his hands in his pockets, apparently a bystander rather than a player in the game.Lindsay's eyes narrowed.He looked familiar.But then, so did a couple dozen rail-riders she'd run into over the last decade. No matter, she told herself.I've come this far.Nothing is going to stop me, including him.

It was full dark, the moon and streetlamps providing the only illumination, before the game began to break up.

"That was a seven.I saw it! Look."Jean reached down and picked up the dice.He held them up for Jacque and Albert's examination.

His cousin shoved him hard, causing him to drop the dice."Bullshit.You cheated and turned the dice when you picked them up.Don't cheat me, Jean."

"Whatever," Albert groaned tiredly."It's too dark to play.I want something to eat."He scooped up his change and began to exit the alley in Lindsay's direction. The man who'd only been watching moved ahead of a lumbering Albert, his step light in comparison.They both walked right past Lindsay, oblivious to her hidden presence.

She let them get a few paces in front of her, then followed behind them quietly, picking up a large, heavy icicle that lay half submerged in a puddle as she moved.

The cold stung her palm and her grip slipped a little as her fingers tightened around the icicle.Just before Albert made it to the mouth of the alley, she took several large strides, until she was right behind him.Her upper lip curled into a snarl as she raised the icicle high above her head, bringing it down against his skull in a blow so vicious the ice shattered into dozens of small pieces.

Albert dropped like a sack of potatoes, his body thumping to the ground with barely a sound.

The other man walked on a few more paces before he realized that he was alone. He turned around and blinked in surprise at what he saw.He peered uncertainly through the shadows at Lindsay, deciding whether or not to bolt. She was crouched over Albert and her cap was pulled down tightly over her head, leaving her face a mystery.

Lindsay's breath was coming in short pants, and with trembling hands she rolled Albert's hefty form over onto his back."Go away," she hissed at the other man, sensing his continued presence but not bothering to look up as she rifled through Albert's pockets."He owes me money and I'm collecting it. That's all.This is none of your business."

The man stood frozen and Lindsay tilted her head upward, her eyes appearing an eerie black in the moonlight as she gazed up from beneath the brim of her hat. "Are you deaf?"

The man lifted his palms in surrender and shrugged.He didn't want any trouble."Nope. Not deaf.And it's not like I'm pals with that useless carcass Rat Face." He spared a look Albert. "I was just bored today so I tagged along for some action." The man grinned, but the lamplight was at his back and his smile was lost on Lindsay. "I don't have any money.I lost it all in the first five minutes to those crooked Frenchmen."

"I don't want your money.I told you, I'm not stealing from Rat Face, I'm only taking back what's mine." What's coming to me.Lindsay's eyes narrowed.The man's voice sounded vaguely familiar, but not enough to place it. "Then I guess you didn't see a thing, right?"

"Not a blessed thing," he agreed softly, before nodding and exiting the alley. He disappeared around the corner.

Lindsay breathed a shaky sigh of relief.She checked Albert's pulse, not sure whether or not she was truly glad to find one."Bastard."He had nearly two dollars in change and she took it all before she dragged his body over to the wall and propped it up against one of the cool metal drums. God, you weigh a ton!One down.Two idiots to go.

Jean and Jacque were still arguing over their last bet when Lindsay crept deeper into the alley, hiding behind the same metal drum she'd used only moments before. She searched for another handy weapon, but there was none to be found.Her pocketknife was small and she doubted it would do much damage, considering the thick coats the men were wearing. But it was all she had, and so she carefully extracted it from her trouser pocket and opened the razor sharp, 3-inch blade. The thought of actually stabbing the men made her sick. I won't let things get to that point, she promised herself, all the while knowing how easily things could spin out of control.She was playing with fire, but she was willing to get burned if she had to.

Now what?This is what you came for.Think.Albert, she had known, wouldn't pose much of a problem.Lindsay had bested him before.Jean and Jacque, however, were another story.She was grateful it was only craps they were playing, and she shivered, remembering the dog's nasty breath against her face as he tore into her with deadly intent.

Deciding that her best chance of success was a sneak attack, she waited impatiently for the cousins to move in her direction.

Jean said something in French and Jacque laughed, then lewdly adjusted his crotch.Jean cursed at his cousin in English, then spat at him to boot.Jacque dodged the glob of spittle, his laughter increasing.

Lindsay made a face, glad she couldn't understand most of what they were saying.

When Jacque drew even with Lindsay's barrel, she sprang to her feet, her hand darting out and tangling itself in his greasy black hair.Jacque's hat fell off and he screamed as he was yanked to his knees, ice water splashing on him and Lindsay as he crashed to the ground. She moved in behind him, dropping to one knee and tightening her grip on his hair. She pressed the blade of her knife under his chin with enough force to draw a thin line of blood.

Jacque swallowed carefully, feeling a trickle of hot blood trail down his neck. "String Bean, right?" He licked his lips."ThatÉ well, that was a just a little joke.Isn't that right, Jean?"

"Oh yeah.A joke," the other man dutifully answered, taking a large step backwards.

"Uh huh," Lindsay chastised, pressing the blade deeper into Jacque's skin, ignoring his high-pitched scream."I guess you've noticed by now that I'm not laughing.It's payback time."

Lindsay rolled her eyes. "Not that sort of payback."She gave Jacque's head a firm tug for emphasis."Not unless you make me."

"Empty your pockets," Lindsay instructed Jean, jerking her chin in his direction."I figure that since you made money while you watched me get mauled by that evil dog, it's only fair that I get in on the action.After all, it was my blood."

Jean chewed at his scraggily, newly grown mustache.In his pocket was a shiny $10 gold coin. Even Jacque didn't know about that.And there was no way in hell he was going to surrender it to some girl."No," he said finally, thinking of how bossy his cousin had been lately."Go ahead and kill him."

Lindsay jerked his head back and repositioned the blade lower against his thick, sweat-slicked neck, not wanting to accidentally slit his throat."I said, I'll kill him!I'm not bluffing, Jean," she warned, all the while inwardly cursing her rotten luck.

Jacque began to cry."My mother is your mother's sister and your Godmother, and this is how you treat me?Your own blood?"

Broken sobs filled the alley, mingling with the endless plinking sounds of water droplets striking metal drums.

Jean's eyes softened."No more bossing me, Jacque?" he asked warily, his hand sliding into his coat pocket.

Jean nodded and removed a pistol from his coat pocket.He drew in a deep breath and pointed it straight at Lindsay and Jacque.

"You had a gun?"Jacque questioned, suddenly indignant."And you were still going to let her kill me?"

Lindsay didn't loosen her grip on her captive, instead, she ducked down a little behind Jacque's bulky body, using him as a shield.

Jean told Jacque bluntly, "You shouldn't pick on me so much, Jacque." His gaze swung round to Lindsay." Now, bitch, let him go before I shoot you."

"No," came the immediate response."I'll slit his throat before you can shoot me."

Jacque wet his pants."No! No!" He screamed, heedless of the blade."You'll miss and shoot me, you-"

"Arghhhhh!"Jacque crumbled to the ground, howling and grabbing at his thigh."Dieu! You son of a whore!"

The knife was torn from Lindsay's grasp by the force of Jacque's movement, and she hit the dirt the same time he did.It took her a few seconds to realize that she wasn't dead and that Jacque's prediction had proved true.

"You shot me! I can't believe it."Jacque's chin was bleeding from where the knife had sliced him when he fell, and dark blood was pouring from his thigh, blending with the icy water of the puddle he was lying in."Jesus Christ!"

Jean stood paralyzed, staring with an open mouth at his writhing cousin."Uh oh. That was an accident, Jacque."

Lindsay pushed herself to her feet and hurled herself at Jean.Her shoes left the ground as she tackled him, sending the gun scattering across the ground.

She managed a single blow to his mouth, feeling his front teeth give way under her fist, the skin covering her knuckles splitting, a jagged flap of skin exposing the bone.They separated, both managing to stagger to their feet.He stumbled towards the gun and she jumped on him again, ramming her knee into his ribs and crying out herself when he grabbed her hand and twisted her barely healed fingers out of shape.They fell to the ground in a tangled heap, rolling several times and drenching themselves in frigid, dirty water that had chunks of fish carcasses from the fishmonger next door floating in it.They cursed and grunted as they scratched and fought, exchanging blows to the face and chest.

Lindsay managed to grasp the gun first.She turned it on Jean and fired without looking, sending the bullet zinging into the alley wall behind him.He scrambled to his feet and backed away.

Jacque moaned, not so caught up in his own agony that he couldn't laugh at his cousin."Kill him, you chickenshit, bitch.Shoot him for me," he roared.

"Yes, hard feelings, you asshole," Lindsay muttered darkly."You're just lucky there's nothing here for me to feed you to.Because I would."Her lip and nose were both bleeding sluggishly and she cradled her damaged hand against her chest.The pain was making her nauseous and she was starting to shake.She waved the gun recklessly at Jean, whose lip was split all the way to his nose. She needed this to be over quickly, before she passed out.Every breath hurt and she could feel her ribs grinding against each other whenever she moved."Empty Jacque's pockets.Now!Or I'll shoot you and do it myself."

"Here," Jacque said, holding out a handful of coins and two tattered bills to Jean."Give it to the bitch."

"Hurry up!I'm dying here."But the bleeding from Jacque's leg was starting to slow.The bullet had passed through the meaty portion of his thigh but missed his femoral artery."For God's sake, asshole, you can't spend the money if you're dead."

"Set it down."She motioned to the ground in front of her."And keep the cash out of the water."Lindsay shook her a head a little, trying to clear away a shock of dark wet hair that was stuck to her cheek.

"Not so fast.Now yours," she instructed, her finger tightening on the trigger.This was the first time she'd ever held a gun.It was heavier than she expected and the blast from both shots was still ringing in her ears.

Jean's eyes narrowed, but he did as she asked, pulling out a small handful of pennies and nickels.

"Keep going," Lindsay encouraged, knowing by the pissed-off look on his face that couldn't be the last of it.

Jean dug into his other pocket and pulled out a single coin. Its shiny gold surface glinted softly in the moonlight.

"Drop it.Hurry up!"Lindsay's eyes darted around nervously and she wondered if someone would call the police because of the gunshots.Not to mention the fact that Albert should be coming to soon. She didn't need anymore complications. Gagging, she spat out a warm mouthful of blood.

Jean let out a string of curse words and bent down to set his money alongside Jacque's.At the last moment, however, he couldn't do it and dove for Lindsay.

Lindsay jerked away, involuntarily squeezing the trigger several times. She heard the bullets hit the barrels and wall behind Jean, then the man fell to the ground screaming and wildly trying to reach the back of his shoulder with one hand.

Jacque laughed."Stupid. She didn't even hit you straight on and you still missed the gun.It was a ricochet.Hurts, doesn't it?" he taunted.

"Shit! Shit!Shit!" Lindsay chanted. "Why did you do that?I have a gun, you dumb ass!" she shouted, her hands shaking so badly she was afraid she'd drop the pistol.

"ÔCause he's stupid," Jacque told her, not even trying to move to help Jean. "Let him bleed to death."

"Shut up!Just shut up," Lindsay ordered, wiping her eyes awkwardly with the back of her throbbing hand.She smeared blood across her face."I need to think." She bent down and scooped up all the money, hastily shoving it into her pockets with her injured hand, hot tears streaking her bloodstained cheeks from the pain the action caused.She stood, feeling queasy."Stay here." She staggered a step closer to Jacque and picked up her pocketknife."Don't follow me.And remember this next time you think it's a good idea to throw a person into the rat pit."

Jacque and Jean glared at her. "Don't worry, String Bean, we'll see you again," Jacque stupidly said.

"Not if I see you first."Lindsay glanced down the alley, seeing the outline of two men in the distance.She tried to focus. The men were getting closer.Limping slightly, she took off running in the opposite direction.

Ginny pressed her forehead against the moist windowpane as she stared down onto the street.Waiting.The shallow puddles that dotted the sidewalk were beginning to grow a thin layer of ice that reflected the moonlight and streetlamps as the temperature dropped. Following a lights out custom an hour after dinner, the entire house was dark and quiet. Far from being able to sleep, Ginny had lit a single beeswax candle some time ago, casting the room in long shadows.

Christian had insisted she and Lindsay stay in the same room they had the night before, deciding that the three little boys who were slated for that room would feel more comfortable with other children on their first night in the house. Blankets and pillows had been laid out in Leo and Nuncio's tiny room, and all five boys were already getting along famously, their animated chatter finally quieting an hour ago.

"Lindsay," she whispered, her eyes rooted on the sidewalk below, "where are you?"

"You weren't expecting someone else, where you?" Lindsay teased weakly. She'd thrown up twice on the way home and felt a little better than she had when leaving the alley, despite her shakiness.

"How did you get in?" Ginny rushed forward, her socked feet sliding on the smooth, cool wood as she came to a halt.

Lindsay looked down at her wet shoes. Her hands were stuffed deeply into her pockets."I picked the lock on the servant's entrance.I-"

"Oh, my god."Ginny stepped closer, peering carefully at her friend.Lindsay smelled of foul water mixed with an unmistakable metallic scent that could only mean one thing.Blood?Lindsay stepped closer to the candle and Ginny could see that her dark hair was matted and her face stained with crimson streaks."What on earth happened?"Her voice was rising along with a surge of panic.

"You're hurt." It wasn't a question.Ginny reached out and grabbed Lindsay by the biceps to steady her; the older woman was swaying a little.She looked as pale as she had in the hospital and a new smell was released as Lindsay moved.The redhead got a whiff ofÉ her mind raced as she tried to place the scent.Then her eyes went round."Gun powder," she whispered in disbelief.Her heart began to pound as she searched Lindsay's body with frantic hands."AreÉ God, are you shot?Where, Lindsay?Tell me!"

"No," Lindsay answered softly, pulling away from Ginny's seeking hands. "I'm not shot.But, Ginny, I really need to sit down.It's been a long walk."

Ginny guided her over to the bed so she could sit down."Sit. BuÉ How didÉyou're all wet."She blinked several times in confusion. It wasn't raining. "Did you fall in the East River?That, at least, would explain the smell." Her tone was curt but Lindsay could tell it was only because she was worried.Ginny shook her head in dismay."Let me take this off."She began tugging at the sodden woolen coat, but couldn't remove it with Lindsay's hands still stuffed deeply in its pockets.

"What time is it?" Lindsay asked dazedly, feeling chilled despite the fact that the house was well heated.

"Near nine, I think," Ginny answered, not really paying attention to the words. "You need toÉ here." She gave a gentle tug on one of Lindsay's arms, insisting that she remove her hands from the pockets so she could take off her coat.

Gingerly, Lindsay tugged one hand free, groaning softly in pain.Picking the lock had nearly sent her to her knees in agony.

It took only an instant for Ginny to see that her fingers were broken again. She winced, her heart aching for her friend."Oh, Lindsay."

Lindsay's second hand emerged significantly more slowly than the first and was tightly wrapped around the handle of a black pistol.

Lindsay's knuckles were still sluggishly bleeding, and a white bone peeked through stained, torn flesh.

Frightened, brown, tear-filled eyes ventured upwards to judge Ginny's reaction. Lindsay swallowed thickly. "ThingsÉ" She shook her head, her throat closing for a moment."ThingsÉ theyÉ they didn't go right."

Ginny pushed a strand of dark hair from Lindsay's forehead, noting the swollen, cut lip, her own eyes brimming with tears."I can see that, honey," she whispered tenderly, putting the weapon out of her mind for the moment."You need me to help you?"

Lindsay's breathing hitched at the kindness in Ginny's voice and she managed a quick nod.Then the words poured out in an almost incoherent stream. "It happened soÉso fÉ fast. I didn't mean for it to. I swear. They're not dead, I don't think." She sucked in a shallow breath."I'm sorry about this afternoon.So sorry.I didn't mean what I said.I am joined at the hip with you, Ginny."She stopped and gave her stunned friend a watery smile."Just your luck, huh?"

Ginny gently cupped Lindsay's cheeks, stroking dirty, stained skin with a tender finger. "Just my luck," she repeated solemnly, making it very clear that that proposition was just fine by her. "Now, you need to give me the gun."

"NO!" Lindsay shook her head frantically."It's dangerousÉ Oh, God, I didn't mean to shoot-"

"Shhh. It'll be okay," Ginny soothed.Dear Lord, she shot someone?"I know guns are dangerous.I'll be very careful.Please, Lindsay, I can't help you until you give it to me."

Lindsay's hand was shaking so hard that Ginny had to steady it, then carefully, one by one, pry her fingers from the blood-drenched handle.

Ginny deftly opened the cylinder and dumped the remaining bullets onto the bed. Then she snapped it closed and quickly placed it on the dresser.She paused, biting her lip, and grabbed the pistol again.Their bag would be a safer place.

"You don't know everything about me yet, Lindsay Killian," Ginny said absently as she began rummaging through their bag for the remains of Bertha's purple dress. "Wonder if Bertha has any idea she turned out to be a real lifesaver?"

Lindsay decided to get up and help."Ginny, areÉ aren't you," she paused, grunting in pain and changing her mind about getting up.Now that she was thawing out, things were starting to hurt worse, "Aren't you going to ask me what happened again?"

"Suppose you save me the trouble and just tell me instead."Ginny poured water from a pitcher Christian had thoughtfully placed in their room earlier that evening into a small washbasin and carried the basin over to the bed."I'll need your knife to cut the dressÉ"

"In my coat pocket," Lindsay told her tiredly.God, I'm an idiot.Only an idiot could be hurting this bad. I should have stayed away from those insane rat-bastard cousins.

Ginny reached into the pocket, and her fingers brushed against a cool pile of coins.She glanced up at her friend in question.

Lindsay sighed."Some guys I know owed me some money." She tried to shrug without moving her ribs, but it was impossible and she gave up quickly."Only they didn't want to pay me back and thingsÉ. Well, thingsÉ" She carefully covered her eyes with dirty palms."I dunno what happened."

Ginny bit her tongue, suspecting that Lindsay would tell her everything if she could only clamp down on her natural inclination to nag the information out of her long enough to hear it."I see," she said noncommittally, extracting the knife from the other pocket.It was hard to open, and she realized why when she saw the blade, which was covered in half-dried, sticky blood.Ginny's stomach roiled, but she forced herself to cut several long strips of material.

"It's not mine," Lindsay whispered, seeing the color drain from Ginny's face. "I just got a good old fashioned ass-kickin'."She groaned inwardly, more than a little disgusted with herself."Again."

Lindsay's eyebrows jumped."Gee, thanks, but I don't need a doctor." A memory of herself sitting in Bertha's lap, about ready to lay a big wet one on the large woman, flittered through her mind. She wanted to grin but her heart wasn't in it."I don't want to end up in the asylum."

"I have no idea what you're talking about," Ginny said testily."Did you get hit on the head again?"

Ginny expelled a shaky breath, lightheaded in her relief. Thank you, God. "Where are you hurt the worst?"

"I think my ribs are crackedÉ hurts to breathe." Ginny instantly began tugging at her shirt until Lindsay stopped her."Leave it.There's not a damn thing you can do about it now.My fingers need to be re-splinted though, or I'm gonna end up with gnarled paws like an old woman."She slowly extended her cut hand and Ginny nodded at the sickening sight."This, on the other handÉ" she chuckled weakly at her bad pun, "needs something."

"All right.I'll be right back." Ginny rushed out of the room, taking great gulps of air as she exploded into the hallway then leaned back against its cool wooden panels, closing her eyes."What have you done, Lindsay?"A gun, a bloody knife, a pocket full of money she didn't have before-all had her mind spinning. Much to her surprise, however, she composed herself rather quickly, knowing that right now her attention was needed elsewhere.After wiping the blood off her hands on a dirty towel in the laundry room, she was able to innocently request a needle and thread from a washerwoman, who lived in a small room on the first floor.

When Ginny returned to their, she found her friend half-undressed and awkwardly running a damp washcloth over her face.The white cloth was stained red and the water in the basin already needed to be changed.Ginny swallowed hard.Okay, a change of plans. "Can you make it downstairs to the basement on your own, because there is no way I can carry you."She didn't want to drag Christian into in whatever it was they were involved in.

Lindsay blinked."I made it up here from across town. I suppose I can get downstairs." Though the thought of traversing the stairs wasn't a pleasant one."But I don't-"

Ginny set the needle and thread on the dresser and gently closed the door behind her. "You're filthy and covered in blood. This tiny washbasin won't be enough. You need a real bath. You've gotÉ God only knows what in your hair, and I need to clean your hand and lip." She sounded worried. "Lindsay, you're susceptible to infection more now than ever. You need to get cleaned up.Properly."Her demeanor brokered no argument and despite the overwhelming desire to do nothing more than curl up in a ball and go to sleep, Lindsay caved in quickly.

"IÉ" Lindsay couldn't help but glance in that direction too."I don't think so.I don't think I was followed. "Lindsay paused so long Ginny figured that she was simply finished talking when Lindsay quietly said, "I think I'd better tell you what happened."

"C'mon, I'll explain while I'm getting cleaned up."Lindsay leaned forward, tense lines of pain marring her face as she moved.She stopped, sighed, and gave Ginny a long-suffering look."Will you help me?"

Ginny was already at her side, helping her onto her feet."Silly question."She pulled a sheet from the bed and wrapped Lindsay in it, hoping they wouldn't run into any of the children, who were all supposed to be in bed, on the way downstairs.

They were in the first floor washroom and Lindsay had climbed into one of the large tubs.A large wood stove was kept well fed twenty-four hours a day in the winter, its vents heating several of the first floor bedrooms. The washroom itself was toasty warm and Lindsay felt herself relaxing in the moist heat as Ginny drained the tub, whisking away most of the grime and blood that had been on Lindsay.Her hand and lip had stopped bleeding and a large mottled bruise covered her ribs below her left breast.

The redhead refilled the tub three-quarters full with steaming water and moved behind Lindsay, kneeling to wash her hair. She was wearing the trousers and man's shirt her companion had stolen from the charity hospital for her and was glad for the ease of movement the garments provided. Ginny's face was covered with a light sheen of perspiration from the steamy air, and she pushed her own hair out of her eyes with the back of one hand before she lathered her hands with a large bar of white soap."Dunk," she ordered, hearing the crack in her own voice.She worked quickly, wanting to attend to Lindsay's hand.

"Feels good," Lindsay murmured, her eyes closed in pleasure.This almostÉ almost made the ass-whoopin' worth it."Thank you."Things didn't seem so desperate now that she was here with Ginny.She felt her panic subside and the nausea that had been plaguing her ease.

Ginny let out the breath she'd been holding."Thank God.Do you know how close you came to getting killed for a few dollars?"The righteous indignation she'd been holding in all day came flooding back and she began scrubbing harder, her movements jerky and abrupt. "Hard as you might find it to believe, you're worth more than twelve dollars."

Ginny's hands slowed."I'm sorry," she apologized, taking the time to lean forward and place a soft kiss on Lindsay's cheek.She couldn't help but smile when she saw that same cheek flush.

"S'okay.That was my money," Lindsay said, examining both her hands. She could wiggle the index finger on the hand with the damaged fingers and figured that one must only be bruised. "Besides, we'll need that money for traveling and food."

"Lindsay," Ginny cupped Lindsay's chin from behind, asking her to turn her head. The young women locked eyes and their faces were so close together that Ginny only needed to whisper.

"I've lived nearly my entire life in a household where trying to find a way to get another dollar was more important than anything else.It came before our health, our safety, our comfort, even our love.Though in my heart I don't think Arthur meant it to or even understood that it was.And Mama never tried once to try to change things."She licked her lips, fighting the urge to break Lindsay's intense gaze. "They're dead now."She felt a lump grow in her throat."And I won't live that way again.Ever." Not even to be with you, Lindsay. "There has to be a better way to be."She searched her eyes. "Do you understand?"

Lindsay nodded slowly.Shit."I think so."She turned away, feeling well and truly chastised. "It wasn't that the money was more important than you are.But it was my money," she repeated, the statement having the same pathetic impact it had the first time she'd said it to Ginny.

The brunette did and when she emerged she felt another bucket of water dumped over her head.She sputtered and coughed, cursing at the pain that caused her split lip. "Hey," she complained weakly; next she felt hands rinsing the remaining soap from her hair.

Ginny ignored Lindsay's protest.Her feelings were so raw right now she didn't trust herself to keep things civil. Of all the stupidÉ carelessÉ dangerous. "Lindsay?"

Lindsay snorted."Hardly." She mulled this next part over. It was pretty embarrassing but this was Ginny. "One of them robbed me and pushed me out of a moving boxcar."

"And then when I went to try to get my stuff back from him, his two asshole pals beat me senseless," Ginny's hands stilled, "and tossed me into a pit where they bet on how long it would take a mad dog to kill me."

"BuÉ that's why you were in the Charity Hospital.The cuts and your ear and everything elseÉ They did that?"Ginny was truly stunned.She'd assumed Lindsay had been in some sort of accident or maybe attacked by a rabid dog.

Ginny pulled her hands from Lindsay's hair.They involuntarily shaped themselves into quivering fists.Her face flushed and her pulse began to race as a wave of rage crested within her. "They tried to kill you."

Lindsay shrugged one shoulder."Well, yeah, so I figured the money they were betting and then any more money they made off that money was mine."Something didn't sound right in Ginny's voice and she turned around, her eyes involuntarily widening at the look on Ginny's face.

"Bastards," Ginny spat, shooting to her feet. She wiped her hands on her trousers."If I'd knownÉ They're lucky it wasn't me in that alley tonight or they'd be dead right now."She picked up a towel from a stack on the table next to the tub, wringing it with strong hands as she silently seethed, both at the men and at Lindsay.

"You're a better shot than me, huh?" Lindsay teased weakly, the thought of the gun making her sick to her stomach again.She hated guns.Just the sound of one going off,which was a regular occurrence in the shanty town where she'd lived as child, scared her witless.

"This is not funny!" Ginny snapped. "They tried to murder you once and they almost killed you again!"

Lindsay bit off a groan as she leaned forward onto one knee and rose to her feet, sending a sheet of water cascading down her body.

The younger woman's rant derailed as she stared at her friend's wet body, her own mouth going cottony in a heartbeat.She had never been presented with something so overtly gorgeous in her entire life.They'd helped each other wash in the hospital to be certain, but they were never alone there and they'd always had towels and hospital gowns to protect their privacy as best as they could.Unlike now. Steam was rising from skin that was tinted pink from the hot water and her hair was slicked back off her face."Lord have mercy," Ginny said out loud without realizing she'd even spoken.

Lindsay held her injured hands out slightly in front of her and looked down at the lurid bruise below her breast, deciding it was ridiculous to be self-conscious about her nakedness at this point.She couldn't see it as well as she wanted to, so, with the hand whose knuckles were cut, she gently shifted her breast to the side.

"Nothing," Ginny said quickly, snapping out of her reverie and thinking that perhaps she could use a bath herself.A nice cold one."Here," she extended the towel to Lindsay who only looked at it and then back up at Ginny.

"I'm sorry," Ginny shook her head and chided her unruly thoughts."Of course."What's wrong with me?She's hurt and I'm drooling over her like one of the pigs from the rail yard. As carefully as she could, she set to work drying Lindsay, the task banishing all dark thoughts of finding Jacque and Jean and finishing what Lindsay had started. Outwardly, she did her best to maintain a detached air. To her heart, and most especially her body, the simple chore amounted to delicious torture. She was especially careful with Lindsay's ribs, frowning at the bruise and knowing how badly it must hurt.

Lindsay closed her eyes at Ginny's ministrations.They felt wonderful, making her feel not just well cared for, but cherished.She sighed. If I didn't feel like crap I'd never be able to keep from moaning at how fabulous her hands feel on me. Ginny gently dragged the towel down her back, lifting her hair and giving it a good squeeze before drying her neck. The towel moved lower, caressing the skin on her bottom before reaching her thighs.

Ginny grinned to herself at the sound.When she was finished, she drained the tub and tossed the towel and sheet from their bed into a laundry hamper, grabbing a fresh sheet for Lindsay to wrap up in.

"You're welcome.C'mon, let's get your hand taken care of and you in bed.You've got two days to rest up before we're catching a train out West. That's the next time we can duplicate the stops the orphan train made without losing too many days."She and Christian had spent the latter part of the afternoon on his phone with the station master, mapping out a schedule.

"Wonderful.IÉ umÉI probably shouldn't hang around Queens or the entire State of New York for a while."She couldn't be sure that the police weren't looking for her.

"Mmm...probably not."Ginny couldn't help but smirk."And now it looks like we'll have money for two tickets."

"What? Tickets?" Lindsay exploded.She reached up to touch her split lip, which was stinging from her sudden outburst."Ouch."She tasted blood.

Ginny sighed."Or pout.Not that you can pout." She crossed her arms over her chest."We're buying two tickets and sitting with the other passengers.You are not jumping on and off trains."

Ginny's glare silenced her.Lindsay gulped. "Fine."She wanted to say more, but she didn't dare.She did, however, roll her eyes in a last, rather pitiful show of defiance. If the guys at the tracks heard about this she'd never live it down.

"Let's go.Here," Ginny wrapped her arm around Lindsay's for balance."Yeah, that's it.Lean on me."

"Well, here we are." Christian gave a tug on the reins, and the buggy carrying him, Ginny, and Lindsay rolled to a stop. Dozens of wagons were packed in around the station, crowding the street. Horses' hooves stamped, splashing in the icy mud as the beasts snorted in the cool, smoky morning. Several teams were clearly agitated by the throngs of New Yorkers determinedly pushing their way to and from the platform. Steam engines arriving and departing hissed loudly and their wheels screeched. Conductors, who controlled the crowds with whistles and booming voices, shouted out various train numbers and destinations, but even their voices were drowned out by the long wail of train whistles that sounded off regularly.

Ginny grabbed their bag and allowed Christian to help her out of the buggy. The young woman was wearing men's clothing and a new cap they'd purchased the day before, the kind the paperboys wore. "Thank you," she said in a raised voice so that Christian could hear her.

He just smiled and offered his hand to Lindsay. When it became clear she couldn't take it, he moved forward and put his hands on her waist, helping absorb some of the shock as her feet hit the wooden boards that had been placed over the sidewalks so that people wouldn't have to wade through the deep mud. Two days of above freezing temperatures and the streets looked more like pigsties than roads. The stench of horse dung and mud filled the air.

"Thanks, Christian," Lindsay told him sincerely, a little embarrassed that she'd needed his help. Her ribs protested her every move but her fingers and the crookedly sewn cut on her knuckles had already begun to slowly heal. Her lip was no longer swollen and the cut had scabbed over, though the skin around it was still tender.

The trio stood awkwardly. They had become good friends in a short amount of time and this was good-bye. "Christian," Ginny began, not knowing quite what to say. "I can't ever repay your kindness. From the bottom of my heart, thank you."

Feeling uncomfortable, Lindsay clasped Christian's shoulder and offered her own thank you before pushing her way up onto the platform and heading towards the ticket office. In her pocket was a list of the cities they needed to stop in.

Ginny sighed a little as Lindsay disappeared. "I don't think she's had a lot of friends, Christian. She doesn't know what to do."

"Ahh…" He wrapped his arm around Ginny's shoulder and led her to the corner of the station where they could talk without having to constantly move aside for passersby. "Saying goodbye is always hard, especially when you know you won't be seeing the people again."

"Don't I? There's nothing here calling you back. I should imagine the lures of the West will capture both your fancies." His gaze drifted back to where Lindsay had been swallowed up by the crowd.

Ginny gave him a fond, somewhat sympathetic look. "She's easy to care for, isn't she?"

Before Ginny could answer Lindsay reappeared with two tickets. She looked a little lost, which for some reason Ginny found endearing. Here was a person who'd spent most of her life in boxcars and around train stations and who'd never ridden with the other ticketed passengers, even once. This was going to be an adventure.

Lindsay extended her hand to Christian and the man took it in his but didn't squeeze.

Lindsay nodded. "You too." Then, on a whim, she leaned forward and pressed her lips gently to his ear. "What you're doing with the children is more important than you know. If the world had more folks in it like you… well, it would be a better place is all."

A little self-consciously, she pulled away and stepped aside, so that Ginny could say good-bye.

The redhead boldly gave Christian a peck on the cheek. She pulled back and looked him dead in the eye with smiling but serious eyes. "Take care, Christian, and thank you again. I won't forget you."

With that, the women turned and arm in arm began weaving their way through the crowd.

Stunned, Christian lifted a hand to his cheek, feeling its flaming heat against his fingers. Just when he was certain he was falling for one woman, the other would do something sweet or interesting or funny and make him reconsider. He shook his head and chuckled as he walked to the buggy, admitting to himself that he simply couldn't choose and had been left with a hopeless crush on them both. "Timing," he muttered to himself, "timing, Christian, is everything. And yours stinks."

Jeremiah scrubbed his face and spoke through his hands. "This happened the night before last, you say?"

"Yes, sir. I couldn't believe it myself. It was too dark for me to see who did the shooting, but the dark-haired one they called String Bean was the only one who left the alley without a bullet in her. She went back to Christian's orphanage and didn't come out all day yesterday." What he didn't mention was that, after he'd heard the first gunshot, he'd been too frightened to get close enough to find out what had really happened in the alley.

"Bella, Bella, this is more serious than we suspected." He made a fist. "Not that I needed any more proof that the woman is unbalanced. I knew that sniveling twit, Christian Spence, had to be involved somehow. I can only imagine the behavior he and those two grown women engaged in at that rat-trap he calls an orphanage. Sickening!" Jeremiah Ward paced the floor in front of his wife, who was sitting behind the desk in their office. The Wards had been out of town the day before and this was the first time that Delano had had an opportunity to give them the shocking news.

"Both the young women are dangerous," Isabelle said needlessly, tapping the desk with a pencil. Steam rose from the small china cup in her other hand, sending the aroma of fresh coffee into the air. "Christian won't do a thing without proof."

"Yes!" Jeremiah agreed instantly, laying his palms on the desk as he leaned closer to his wife. "Much too dangerous to ignore." What if she comes back here after me? He'd thought gun-wielding women only existed in those ridiculous dime novels. "We must—"

Isabelle silenced him with a raised hand. She casually turned to Delano. "And the man, the one you told us about earlier?"

"Rat Face?"

A nod. "And what sort of man is this Rat Face? A friend of… String Bean's?" Just having to say these ridiculous names was making her angry. She set down her cup. Its base had a tiny chip in it and she frowned, turning the cup slightly so that only she could see the imperfection.

Delano's eyes narrowed as he thought back, wondering if he should repeat the coarse language in front of a woman. "He's a… he's a rough sort, ma'am, part criminal, part beggar. He cursed the woman many, many times and told me what he'd do if he ever saw her again. He's no friend of String Bean's."

"Interesting," Isabelle pointedly commented. She took a final sip and set the cup aside along with her pencil.

Jeremiah turned around and sat on the edge of the desk. He felt Isabelle's hand come to rest on his back, the comforting warmth of her palm seeping through his thin woolen vest and white cotton shirt.

The small woman stood and moved alongside her husband, leaving her hand where it was. Virginia Chisholm and this String Bean woman were a team. She had seen the subtle give-and-take between them when they'd confronted her and Jeremiah. It was something she understood quite well. Partnerships were about balance. Upset the balance and you upset the partnership, thereby weakening the team. Alone, String Bean had no business with them. Alone, how much of a problem would Virginia Chisholm really be? Let's find out. "Well then, Delano, perhaps if we… encouraged this Rat Face to find String Bean some of our problems would start to take care of themselves."

Jeremiah smiled. "That's an excellent idea." His pride was still smarting and the thought of some harm coming to the brash young woman who'd bested him in the eyes of his beloved filled him with a quiet satisfaction. He reached into his vest pocket and pulled out two silver dollars. Then he moved around to his desk and unlocked the bottom drawer. He glanced up at Isabelle, who nodded. In the drawer was a locked cash box. It opened with a sharp click and he removed a crisp ten-dollar note from the bottom, idly wishing he hadn't had to reach through the few tattered singles above it. Business could always be better.

Delano's eyes widened slightly. He hoped he was being rewarded for his diligence. That was a weeks' pay that Mr. Ward was holding.

"Delano," Jeremiah ripped the bill neatly in half, ignoring the other man's shocked gasp, "perhaps this will encourage Rat Face to follow String Bean and… bring her to justice. You followed her and Virginia Chisholm this morning. It's clear they're going after the children. Even someone named Rat Face should be able to find them."

Rat Face had said over and over what he'd do to String Bean if he ever saw her again, though privately Delano didn't believe the man had enough nerve to follow through with his threats. "You want him to hurt her?" he asked casually, trying not to show how nervous just saying the words made him.

"Of course not!" Isabelle snapped, her eyes flashing. "We never said that. Never." Then she visibly calmed herself and smoothed the fabric on her dress. "We're doing nothing more than encouraging the victim of a robbery to reclaim his stolen property and inform the police of String Bean's whereabouts. You did say that he believed String Bean robbed him, correct?" She waited for him to dutifully nod. "But Jeremiah and I are realists and we do know that things… sometimes unfortunate things…happen."

Jeremiah rolled the silver dollars around in his palm. "If Rat Face locates String Bean and she somehow ends up in jail, or otherwise incapacitated, he can come back here and collect this reward." He turned to his wife and reached out to stroke her cheek. "I consider it our civic duty to promote the hunting down of criminals, don't you, Bella?"

She leaned into the touch. "Absolutely, Jeremiah. And the fact that Miss Chisholm and the ever-pious Mr. Spence consort with people of such obvious ill-repute only serves to discredit them. Which is exactly what we need."

Delano scowled. He thought he was sure what they wanted, but now… "Mr. Ward, I don't think that Rat Face will go anywhere near the police. I think once he finds her he'll—"

"Enough," Isabelle warned him firmly, her eyes glinting with anger. Why did Jeremiah employ this idiot who clearly had no appreciation for the type of discretion required to carry out business in today's environment? She expected more from her husband. "I don't want to hear speculation, Delano. I don't want to know about things like that." She slowed her speech. "Ever. Do you understand?"

Delano nodded quickly, recognizing from the look on her face that he'd made a serious error. "Yes, ma'am." He stepped closer and glanced nervously at Mr. Ward, whose face was set in granite. "My apologies to the both of you."

"Then here." Reaching out, Jeremiah pressed the coins and half the bill into Delano's hand. "I expect Rat Face will be leaving immediately. The two dollars are for his expenses."

"None of our concern," Isabelle interrupted. She strode across the room and opened the door, effectively dismissing him. "I believe you have someone to find, don't you?"

When the door slammed behind Delano, Isabelle whirled around and raised a sharp eyebrow at her husband.

He looked down at his shoes guiltily. Delano needed a lesson in discretion. A severe lesson. "I'll speak with him privately, Bella."

"See that you do," she said crisply as she moved back behind the desk. There was work to be done.

Lindsay shifted uncomfortably in her seat. The padded wooden bench was covered with a thickly napped red fabric and was barely big enough for her and Ginny. In fact, their thighs and shoulders were touching. That however, was not what was bothering Lindsay, who had decided if Ginny wanted to sit on her lap the entire trip that would be fine too. Problem was, the train was cramped and crowded. Several men in the back of the car were smoking cigars and the smoke wafted over them in great clouds. People were staring at the way she was dressed, and Lindsay realized for the first time why Ginny had chosen to dress in a similar fashion. Now they'll look at both of us and not just me, huh? Ginny, Ginny, what am I going to do with you? Her mind sighed contentedly, and her chest tightened with a surge of affection for her companion.

Ginny noticed the odd expression on Lindsay's face and leaned over to whisper in her ear. "What's the matter, my Bruised Tomato? Hurting today?"

A laugh bubbled up from deep inside and Lindsay shook her head, laying one of her bandaged hands on Ginny's knee, and giving it a gentle squeeze. "Bruised is right," she acknowledged wryly. "But otherwise I'm really good, Ginny." Better than you know.

"Good." Ginny's delighted grin showed off her dimples and she glanced down at Lindsay's hand, placing her own atop it. Her spirits were higher than they'd been in days. Lindsay was healing slowly but steadily, and though there hadn't been too much kissing, in deference to her friend's injuries, she couldn't resist giving her a few. They'd both grown slightly bolder and she found herself flushing just thinking about it. She tried not to do that too much, though. It was not only unbelievably distracting but still a little bewildering and scary. As if that wasn't enough to keep her mind spinning, they were finally on their way to find James, Lewis, and Jane. They'd already been through so much. She couldn't help but think that things could only get better from here.

The train whistle blew, drowning out the constant hum of conversation around them. A cloud of black smoke erupted from the smokestack and the train lurched forward.

The wooden cars squeaked with the steady movement of the wheels and Lindsay began looking around. The men in the seat directly across from her and Ginny were already asleep. She wondered idly if they knew just how easy it would be for her to lean over casually and remove them of the burden of their wallets. She snorted to herself, suspecting that they didn't.

Lindsay didn't like the way it smelled in here and felt an irrational jolt of anger at having to purchase a ticket when they could be traveling in an airy boxcar, stretched out on their backs with warm blankets as they watched the world go by. No one would be around to look down their noses at Ginny then. Of course, she didn't dwell on the fact that they'd have to take three times as many trains just to get where they were going and that she'd probably kill herself trying to get in and out of them. And there was always an element of danger. Many times you weren't alone in a boxcar. Still, the air in this car was a sickly combination of wet woolen clothing and leather shoes, sweat, cloying perfume, and food.

"Ugh." Ginny wrinkled her nose. "Is that fish I smell?" For breakfast?

"Do you really want to know?"

Lindsay didn't move her hand from Ginny's knee for the next couple of hours. Even when it fell asleep.

They changed trains in Jersey City and settled into a second-class car, much like the first one they'd been in. A thin Negro man, dressed in a starched, navy-blue uniform with a black neck-tie, a leather-billed black hat, and the shiniest shoes Lindsay had ever seen, approached them with a hole-puncher in one hand and a pencil in the other. He politely asked to see their tickets and confirmed that they were, indeed, proper passengers on the Pennsylvania Railroad, train number 8704 to Washington, D.C., punching a tiny square next to the name of the city, before moving on to the next passenger. And the passenger after that….

Their next stop wouldn't be for four more hours and Ginny could tell that Lindsay was bored and anxious, still struggling with her unaccustomed role as a regular passenger. Her dark-haired friend was so used to hiding from railway employees that she visibly flinched every time one walked by.

This experience wasn't wholly new to Ginny. When they were little girls, while her father was still alive, she and Alice would take the train every summer to upstate New York and visit her father's parents. She considered those visits the sweetest, golden time of her childhood and she and Alice had recalled the fond memories often. But first her grandfather passed away, then her father the following year. When her grandmother died six months later, there was no one left to visit.

"Lindsay?" Ginny began, pulling herself out of her memories, "I've been thinking."

"We need a plan to fall back on if the family that has the children doesn't want to give them up. I was thinking we—"

"Family?" A crease appeared in Lindsay's forehead. "You do realize that chances are they didn't all go to the same family? We could be dealing with three different families in three different cities."

Ginny stared at Lindsay for a second, the words not penetrating her brain. Finally she began to sputter. "Bu…bu—" She squeezed her eyes tightly shut. Why didn't I think of that before? Of all the stupid… When she opened her eyes again they glistened with unshed tears. "Who would do that?" she whispered harshly. "Who would split them up? The boys are twins, for God's sake, and Jane… she's only a baby, they're all she has!" Her voice rising as her emotions spilled over. In her mind she'd always allowed herself to be comforted by the fact that they at least had each other. Her guilt made her sick. What if they were truly all alone with strangers?

The outburst caused Lindsay to pull back, her eyes wide. Why was Ginny so upset over the obvious? Some of the passengers were staring, and she returned their glares hotly, daring them to continue to stare. "What are you lookin' at?" she growled at the gaping man in the seat across from them. He wasn't even pretending not to be listening avidly to their conversation.

The man blinked stupidly, unable to believe that one of the strange women dressed like men was addressing him at all. Then he stiffened in his chair and jerked his newspaper out of the leather satchel at his feet. He shook it open loudly and promptly blocked out the view, though Lindsay could hear him grumbling behind the business section.

"That's what I thought," the rail-rider said under her breath. Ginny's face was red, but Lindsay couldn't tell if it was from embarrassment or because she was upset. Guess it doesn't matter. She gentled her voice. "Ginny?"

Feeling foolish, Ginny hesitantly swung her eyes up to meet Lindsay's. "Relax, okay? I'm sure they tried to place them in a home together." Ginny's shoulders sagged and Lindsay quickly moved to reassure her, sorry now that she'd said anything in the first place. "Hey, we don't know exactly who has them for sure. Maybe they all three went to a family at the very first stop." She lifted her eyebrows hopefully and cocked her head slightly to the side. "We can still hope, right?"

The words transported Ginny back to a snowy night on Orchard Street when Lewis, his little face stained with soot and his cheeks streaked with tears, looked up with all the hope and faith a child could possess and uttered the exact same thing. Even now she could feel the cold wind ruffling her hair and the sting of tiny snowflakes as they melted against her hot face while she stood there, helplessly watching her life go up in flames. Stop it, she told herself ruthlessly. Was it only a few weeks ago… a month? It seems like ages.

"What's your plan if the folks who did the adopting don't want to turn the kids over to you?" Lindsay asked her, desperately hoping to steer the conversation back to safer ground.

With a sad smile, Ginny allowed herself to be dragged back into the moment. "Don't worry. I'm all right. I don't know why I hadn't thought of that before. Stupid, I suppose." A grim look chased its way over normally bright features, making Ginny appear much older than her seventeen years. "Okay. I've been thinking about this for days." And she had. In her mind she'd imagined some sweet, loving couple, who had tried to start a family but couldn't. They would have taken in all her siblings to give them a loving home. And now she was coming to rip the couple's beating hearts from their chests.

"I see," Lindsay said gravely, adjusting her coat, which was wadded up against the window in a vain attempt to keep the cold air out. The look of guilt in those blue eyes next her was unmistakable. It was an emotion Lindsay saw little use for.

Ginny's eyebrows jumped. She leaned forward and propped her elbows on her knees, resting her chin on her fist. "What exactly do you see, Miss Mind-Reading Rutabaga? You don't know what I'm going to say."

Lindsay stuck out the tip of her tongue at the younger woman, relieved that Ginny's good humor seemed to be making a reappearance. So much had happened to both of them, so fast, they were prone to the occasional outburst. But that was okay. They had been working on that together.

"Well," Ginny prompted again, giving Lindsay's chest a tiny poke with a challenging finger "What do you see?"

A single brown eyebrow lifted. "I see someone who feels guilty that she's about to claim what's already hers—her family."

The look on Lindsay's face dared her to disagree. "Wh…Wow." Ginny let out a long breath, a little unnerved at the other woman's ability to read her so clearly. "I'm that obvious?"

"No buts. Your brothers, at least, know you're out here…somewhere." A fond, slightly wry smile tugged at the corner of Lindsay's lips. "If they're anything like you then they're not shy about saying what's on their mind. Whoever's got them knows about you, Ginny. And they have to know it's only a matter of time 'til you turn up."

Ginny sat back in her seat and forlornly gazed out the window. "I just don't want anyone else to get hurt, Lindsay." Her eyes remained rooted on the passing scenery. "I know I'm putting the cart before the horse, but there's been enough hurting to go around lately, don't you think?"

Lindsay followed Ginny's line of sight, watching the trees and snowy landscape speed by. She sighed and finally said, "Someone might get hurt." She felt her way carefully through the sensitive issue. "But if they do, it's the Wards who are to blame for this mess. Not you. The guilt rests on their shoulders, Ginny. Let it go."

Ginny turned her head and gave Lindsay a weak smile, trying to adopt her friend's attitude, but failing quickly.

Ginny's expression grew determined. "If they won't give them back voluntarily, I'm taking them anyway, Lindsay. They can't have my family. They just can't. The law can call it kidnapping if they want to, but it's not true. We belong together." She paused, not wanting to continue. Her next words were physically painful, though she knew they needed to be said. "You could probably get into a whole lot of trouble if you do this with me and—"

"Oh, for fuck's sake!" Lindsay exploded, rolling her eyes. "Do I seem to be concerned about the law?"

"Lindsay!" Ginny hissed, glancing at the other passengers who were shooting her companion disgusted looks.

"You clearly have me confused with someone else." She snorted then questioned Ginny impatiently. "What?" She gave Ginny a pointed look. "You were going to tell me something stupid like I'd better not help you because I could get in trouble." Ginny opened her mouth to speak but Lindsay plowed ahead, undeterred. "I know you, Virginia Chisholm. Don't try and lie your way out of it. This is the part where you make some selfless statement about how I'll be better off not helping you. Let's get this out of the way here and now, I'm in this mess and not getting out of it any time soon." She nodded firmly. "I don't want to get out of it. So there." Lindsay lifted her chin, a little proud at the way she'd handled that.

Ginny threw her hands in the air and groaned. "You make it sound like a bad thing that I don't want you getting into trouble!

"It's not bad," she gave Ginny a ghost of a wink, "just not realistic in my case. Or yours either, for that matter. Besides, when the shoe was on the other foot, I seem to recall you giving me ‘what for' until I ate crow like a starving woman."

Ginny's exasperation melted away in the space of a single heartbeat. "It's not the same thing," she argued gently, but even as she said them, she didn't believe the words.

"Sure, it is," Lindsay responded knowingly, thinking of what had happened the day before and how she'd nearly gone insane with worry.

Ginny had announced to Christian and Lindsay that she needed to go someplace that afternoon and wouldn't be back until after supper. Ignoring their curiosity and Lindsay's outright concern, she'd left the orphanage alone and walked the several miles to the East River. Once there, she'd followed a path along the shore until she found a spot secluded behind a cluster of trees, their dry branches extending over the water.

Ginny had stood there for a long time, waiting for dusk and just thinking. Her hand closed around the pistol in her pocket and she remembered how her grandfather had taught her and Alice to shoot, using empty bean tins as targets. Despite his time and care with her, however, she never really liked guns and was never able to move beyond the overwhelming sense of dread that something terrible was going to happen just by being around one. Her decision made, she pulled Lindsay's bloodstained gun from the pocket of her coat and hurled it as far as she could, watching it disappear into the murky, fast-flowing waters with a small splash.

Now that same type of bone-deep loyalty and devotion was being offered back at her. The same fierce affection and concern was mirrored in warm-brown eyes. Ginny understood the overwhelming desire to help and protect so completely that she couldn't find it in her heart to begrudge Lindsay that. Though she sorely wanted to.

The redhead scrunched up her face in defeat. "I hate it when you're right. You know that?"

Lindsay chuckled, wishing she could kiss those smiling lips. "Lucky for you it doesn't happen very often."

Delano carefully traversed the muddy railroad yard, ignoring the wary looks and unhappy murmurs from several men who were standing around small fires, warming themselves and talking. It was late afternoon and this was the place Rat Face had informed him he'd be most likely to find String Bean if she hadn't taken to the rails yet. Of course, it wasn't Lindsay that Delano was here to find. His shoes sank deeply into icy-cold mud with every step, making sucking noises as he lifted his feet. The cold stung his ankles.

There was a larger fire at the very end of the yard, near the fence, where half a dozen men idly stood around the flames. Several were drinking from dark bottles, their vulgar words and laughter carried across the yard by the wind. Delano pulled his collar up around his neck and continued on his course, shooting each man a surreptitious glance as he passed.

When he finally made his way to the largest group of men, he sidled up to them, trying his level best to appear casual, though his clean-shaven face and clean coat were enough to make him stand out like a sore thumb. He pulled his hands from his pockets and focused on them for a few seconds as he warmed them over the hissing flames. Then his eyes rose to meet Albert's.

"Well, lookie who's here," Albert said, not hiding his surprise. "This is the guy who was so interested in our String Bean." The words were laced with venom and he brought his bottle to his lips, sending a few droplets of cheap beer splashing onto his shaggy beard as he swigged down the last swallow. He wiped his mouth with the back of his hand and, when he was through, tossed the bottle over his shoulder without looking. It shattered against a boxcar, sending shards of glass into the mud and remaining snow, its loud crash echoing through the yard.

The men around the fire all laughed when the boxcar's occupant poked his disheveled head out of the car and hurled profanities at whichever prick had interrupted his nap.

"Shut up and go back to screwin' Bug Eye's ass," the oldest of the men at the fire yelled over his shoulder. There was more general laughter, with men from several other fires joining in this time.

The head disappeared back into the boxcar with another, even louder string of expletives.

Delano recognized Albert instantly, but there was another man present who was familiar too. The wheels in his mind churned until finally something clicked. The man with the mustache and black hat was the one he'd seen leaving the alley just before the shooting. They hadn't spoken, but they'd glanced at each other as they passed on the sidewalk beneath a street lamp.

Albert followed Delano's gaze and sneered. "Yeah, that bastard Bo was there." His gaze shifted into a nasty glare.

Bo was a little on the tall side with a naturally broad build, despite needing a little more meat on his bones. His head was covered with a thick crop of wavy, reddish brown hair that curled around his collar and ears and stuck out wildly from the sides of a dirty black Derby. He was barely out of his teens, and his slight harelip was mostly hidden by a dark mustache that needed trimming.

For the umpteenth time, Albert recalled the events of the evening he was attacked. "Amazing that you didn't get bashed on the head or shot, isn't it, Bo? " His voice dripped with contempt, but Bo merely shrugged.

"Shut up, asshole!" Albert boomed, jerking his coat closed over his protruding belly as he tried to act indignant. "I didn't owe her squat."

The other men laughed. String Bean, who they taunted as cruelly as they would any in their ranks, was begrudgingly respected. Rat Face, on the other hand, was about as popular as a heart attack, though his presence was tolerated out of laziness as much as anything else. No one was completely shunned; not Negroes or foreigners, though they were undeniably given a harder time than other riders, or String Bean, who most knew to be a woman, though she didn't advertise that fact, not even Jacque and Jean who were exceptionally violent. The community was so loose, its members so transient, that they didn't bother trying to weed out the bad ones. That tended to take care of itself—like it had with Jacque and Jean who hadn't been seen since the shooting Rat Face had told them about. Personal alliances were few and far between.

Delano wanted to pull Rat Face aside to make his proposal, but he didn't know how the other men would react. Unsure of what else to do, he ignored them. "I… um… I have a job offer for you, Albert." His eyes darted to Bo and he made a split-second decision that he hoped the Wards would applaud. He had not performed as well as he should have earlier in the day. The Wards knew it, and so did he. Now was his chance to rectify that. Albert couldn't be trusted, but perhaps, with another man watching over him, he would manage to get the job done. "Job's for Bo, too, if he's interested."

Albert was about do the same when Delano stopped him with a firm hand on his arm. "I think you'll want to hear my offer." Bo began edging his way to the other side of the fire, and away from the stranger. "You too, Bo," Delano told him, his eyes requesting that the young man stay put for the time being.

Bo reluctantly held his ground, ready to bolt if need be. Folks just didn't come down to the tracks and offer people jobs out of the blue. Still, this man had been asking about String Bean, and that piqued his curiosity.

Albert looked around nervously, hoping the other riders didn't think he was turning snitch for the cops, or getting religion, or something equally despicable. "Whaddya want?" he said in a hushed voice. "And make it quick."

Suddenly, Albert's anger flared. "If I ever meet up with that rotten bitch I'm going to break her in two!" he barked, his heart beginning to pound in his chest.

Delano nodded slowly, then carefully stoked the flame burning in Albert's dark eyes. "She stole from you. She attacked you and she should be…" he paused for effect, "punished."

"Hell, yes she should." Albert narrowed his eyes and absently pulled a hand-rolled cigarette from his pocket and crouched down. He pulled out a slender twig from the flames. The stick's tip was smoldering and he used it to light the cigarette, puffing heavily. "Why should you care what happens to her? You never did say why you were sniffin' around after her the other night either. I don't even know your name."

Delano's expression went a little cold. No link back to the Wards. No matter what. "That's none of your business." He shifted from one foot to the other. "All you need to know is that there is someone out there who believes String Bean should get what's coming to her." He stopped, allowing both Albert and Bo to absorb his words. "Maybe justice will come from the cops." The look on his face, however, made it clear that he wasn't impressed with that option. "Or maybe it will come from—"

"Either way, you financially benefit, Rat Face." Delano handed each of the men a shiny silver dollar. Next, he held up the ten-dollar note Jeremiah Ward had torn in half. "Find her… conduct your business, come back with proof that you did it, and you'll get the other half of this as a reward." He passed over the note.

Albert's eyes widened. He'd never had ten dollars at one time in his entire life.

"What about me?" Bo asked, warily. "I don't have anything to do with what's between Rat Face and String Bean."

Delano correctly him quickly. "You do now. Your job is to see that Albert does his job."

His eyes flashing with anger, Albert scowled and kicked mud at Delano, who stepped aside. "Bullshit! I ain't splittin' the money. I can—"

Delano held up his hand at Albert but addressed Bo. He forced himself to take a calming breath before he continued. He found himself wishing String Bean had hit Rat Face hard enough to crush his worthless skull. "If you do this, Bo, there'll be several more dollars in it for you." He only hoped that the Wards would agree because he sure as hell wasn't going give either one of these men a penny of his own money.

"And I don't have to do anything else?" Bo asked, scratching his jaw as he considered it.

"Not a thing," Delano promised. "You're just my back up security when it comes to Rat Face."

A cloud of cigarette smoke wafted from Albert's mouth. "Where is she?" he asked, picking a tiny piece of tobacco off his tongue with stubby fingers. He wasn't happy about having Bo reporting back on him. But then again, once they got paid, he intended to rob Bo and beat the shit out of him because he could. So things could be worse. He regarded his new partner carefully, wondering if Bo was already planning to do the same thing to him. Probably, the bastard. Can't trust nobody these days.

Delano dug into his coat pocket for a folded piece of paper. He gave it to Albert. "That's a list of the towns she'll be stopping in."

"There's a phone number on the back. Call me when you've done what I've asked and we'll meet." He'd been careful to leave the number of a fancy hotel where his brother worked. There'd be no way to trace that to the Wards. "Leave a message and I'll get it."

Albert shoved the paper back towards Delano's face, causing the other man to stumble backwards a couple of steps. "Can't read and never used no damn phone. Just tell me where she went."

Delano had to stick his hand in deep mud puddle to brace himself to keep from falling further, and keep from falling. He stood angrily, his hand already achingly cold and dripping. "You men now have two dollars between you." His face twisted into a snarl. "Pay someone to read it and have them make the call if you're too stupid."

"Hey! Who you callin' stupid?" Albert took a step forward but was restrained by Bo.

Bo shot Delano an evil look before turning to Albert. "Can't kick his ass, Rat Face. He's our new boss." He smiled boyishly and slapped Albert's back in a gesture that was a little too hard to be entirely friendly. But, finally, Albert relaxed and grinned back at the younger man.

"That's right," Albert chuckled smugly. He took a long drag from his cigarette and intentionally blew the smoke in Delano's direction. "Never had me a boss before. I forgot myself. Kickin' his ass is probably not a good thing to do on your first day."

Delano nearly bit his tongue through, half hoping the fat rail-rider would give it a try and give him an excuse to throttle him. "My boss expects you to leave immediately," he ground out. "Do it and don't fuck up."

And with that, he whirled around and began stomping out of the railroad yard, blocking out the sound of Albert's laughter as he moved. Maybe, Delano acknowledged moodily, it was time to find a new job.

"Finally," Ginny mumbled as she stepped down off the train and was greeted with a blast of fresh air.A light snow was falling, and she tugged on her cap, stepping away from the door so that Lindsay could join her on the platform.

"Where are we really?" Lindsay traversed the three steps, jumping off the last one, her shoes thudding lightly against the wood.There was a teasing glint in her eyes as she awkwardly tried to button her coat.

"Here." Ginny guided Lindsay a few paces away from the door so that other passengers could disembark without running into them.But there were none.She blinked a few times, her eyes scanning the platform."Huh.Popular place.There's not even a station master. Folks must buy tickets in town someplace." She set their bag between her feet then began working on Lindsay's buttons.The skin of her palms was still thin and sensitive, but it didn't ache as much as they used to and most of her manual dexterity had returned.

Lindsay briefly covered one of Ginny's busy hands with one of her own."Thank you," she said softly."Now say itÉYou know you want to."

"I do not." Ginny spoke without looking up from her task, a tiny smile creasing her cheeks."And you're welcome." She enjoyed doing things for Lindsay, and only wished she had opportunities to show her which didn't involve her friend being hurt.When she was finished, she gave Lindsay's chest a little pat.

The train's whistle wailed and, with a puff of black smoke, began to slowly inch forward, gaining speed and momentum with each passing second.

Ginny rolled her eyes but dutifully repeated herself."We're in Big Ugly, West Virginia."

"Mercy, Lindsay, how old are you again?" she laughed. "You remind me of the boys."Then the happy sound came to an abrupt stop and Ginny's face fell as she remembered why they were here.Her tone grew melancholy."I'll bet they laughed when they saw the name too."Please, she prayed silently.Please let them be here.

Ginny stepped forward and wrapped her arms around Lindsay's solid, strong body, sighing a little at the contact.Even though they'd sat next to each other on the train, she'd missed this more intimate contact.

Lindsay's entire body felt stiff and she was bone-tired from not being able to sleep while sitting up in front of two-dozen strangers, but she melted into the embrace now, feeling herself relax and her heartbeat slow.Her eyes slipped closed of their own accord.

There wasn't another soul at the station and they stayed pressed tightly together until the chugging of the train disappeared into the distance and the world went blessedly quiet except for the occasional clinking of dry, ice-covered branches when the wind blew.

Ginny gave a final squeeze to the sturdy body against hers, smiling a little when Lindsay's eyes fluttered open, a disoriented look to her normally alert gaze."Tired, Lindsay?"

Lindsay frowned.She was used to far more activity than this, but clearly her body still hadn't recovered from Jacques and Jean and that damned dog.She refused to give Rat Face any credit at all for her current state."No, I'm not tired." But it was a half-hearted lie that merely earned her a slightly raised eyebrow and smirk.

"It's so quiet here." The hush in Ginny's voice reflected the surroundings.She could see a few small wooden buildings and a church with a tall steeple a block or two down the road. There wasn't a wagon in sight and she couldn't remember the last time silence actually thundered around her like this.In the distance, several plumes of smoke disappeared into the gray sky, probably, she mused, from the town's few houses. What an odd place for the train to stop and try to place children.

Ginny bent to retrieve their bag and sniffed the air as they began walking towards the buildings.The breeze was scented with the sweet, pungent smell of pine and wood-smoke andÉnothing else."Wow." Clearly impressed, she gazed at the mature trees that lined one side of the street and the snow, so blindingly-white it hurt her eyes.Deep green, pine-covered hills shone in the distance. "If they call this ÔBig Ugly,' New York City would give these people a collective heart attack."

The snow on the street was deeper than it looked and came halfway up the women's calves as they trudged forward.Lindsay snorted."New York City is enough to give anyone a heart attack.Even tough as nails New Yorkers!"

"HideousÉbut home," Ginny muttered wryly, knowing even as she said the words they weren't really true anymore.Christian had been right.There was nothing left for her there.When she found her family she had a new life to create.For all of them.She desperately wanted Lindsay to be a part of that new beginning. But fear kept her from bringing it up.They'd never spoken about what would happen later, though Ginny knew things couldn't remain unsaid between them for too much longer.

"Where are we starting?"Lindsay scanned the buildings, knowing by the shape of the large one in the middle of the street, and its wide picture window, that it was the town's general mercantile."The store or the church maybe?"

Ginny's stomach growled.They hadn't eaten since their pre-dawn, several-hour stopover in a tiny town whose only industry appeared to be feeding hungry railroad passengers.The food sold in the dining car on the train was ridiculously expensive and so they'd gone without, trying to stretch every penny.She sighed; it was nearly suppertime, but they could always eat later.They needed to begin searching before the last of the afternoon light disappeared."First the church, I think.Christian said that the adoption committees were usually sponsored by one of the local churches or Ladies Leagues."

They crossed the street and headed towards the small, steepled building. "Tell me about these committees," Lindsay said, her thumb fiddling with the bandage on that hand.Maybe tomorrow she could remove it.The cut to her knuckles was healing nicely.

"The committee put up notices around the town and then, when the children arrive, the committee makes sure the people wanting to adopt them are fit.The committees also do all the paperwork, then mail it back to New York.I guess every orphanage does it a little differently, but the trains usually take different routes when they leave New York every month or two.That way a town won't see another train for at least a year and there's a chance, by then, that folks will want more children."

"MmmÉ I've seen groups of orphans at a few different railroad stations.They get their own car and don't sit with the other passengers. "

Ginny cocked her head to the side and drew in a surprised breath, the cold air stinging her lungs a little."You never mentioned that before."

Lindsay shrugged one shoulder."Nothing to say really.I suppose I've seen just about everything that goes on around trains.Never have seen bunches of kids like that except in New York, though." She didn't mention that many of the children had been sobbing and that she'd seen some forcibly carried onto the trains."I guess if they'd had them in Pennsylvania it might have been me on one of those trainsÉ." She chuckled humorlessly."The State couldn't have held me though, unless they'd tied me up the entire tripÉ even then I'd have just run away when they finally untied me."

Ginny smiled a little at that, acknowledging that her strong-willed friend probably couldn't have been controlled unless they'd gotten her as a very tiny child.She imagined what Lindsay had been through over the years, growing up cold and hungry, truly alone in a world far too cruel to be navigated by a stubborn little girl.Even before Lindsay had taken to the rails her father had abandoned her emotionally if not physically.As near as Ginny could tell, she'd been robbed of her childhood completely.Maybe, just maybe, my friend, you'd have been much better off on one of those orphan trains.

Lindsay glanced sideways and shook her head at the pensive look on Ginny's face, easily guessing what she was thinking."I wouldn't change the past even if I could.Besides, if anything had happened differently, I probably wouldn't have met you." She didn't dare turn her head to see the expression on Ginny's face as the unexpected words tumbled out.But she heard a sharp intake of breath next to her and felt her heart began to pound as an unexpected silence grew between them.

Ginny reached out and grabbed Lindsay's sleeve, pulling them both to a stop.Lindsay felt her stomach drop as she looked at Ginny's deadly serious face and their eyes locked."Lindsay-" Ginny paused when a man exited the barbershop door only a few feet in front of them and they caught sight of their first citizen of Big Ugly.His skin was tanned and weather-beaten and he wore a wide-brimmed hat.He was dusting small clippings of white hair from his coat when he stepped outside, nearly bumping into Ginny and Lindsay.

"Afternoon," he said absently as he sidestepped the women.Then his wrinkled eyes met Ginny's and he did a double take, nearly stumbling as his brain tried to reconcile the pretty girl's face attached to a body dressed like a man.Confused, he hesitantly reached up and tipped his hat-just in case.Either way, those folks were standing way too close to each other.

The redhead smiled her hello, while Lindsay politely answered back, "afternoon," and took a small step forward, putting a respectable space between her and Ginny.

Scowling, the man lengthened his stride.The voice was clearly female.And women didn't have any business dressing like that.He began mumbling something about that train and the queer sort of folk it brought to town as he disappeared down the street.

Lindsay rocked back on her heels and let out a low whistle."Lucky that man didn't see us at the depot."

Ginny cringed."I need to change into something more respectable.My dress is wrinkled but clean."Her eyes flicked from place to place, finally landing on something that would do."I can use the outhouse behind the church."

Lindsay shrugged as they began to walk again."To hell with respectable."But her soft voice wasn't angry or even defiant."You look fine to me."

Ginny's lips twitched and her blue eyes twinkled affectionately."I know I do.And you look fine to me too."A light pat on the arm reaffirmed her words."It's other folks I'm worried about."

Lindsay paced outside the outhouse while Ginny changed."Ginny?" She took a step closer to the thin wooden door.

"I'm going back down the street toÉ umÉ" Lindsay cast about for an excuse to leave. "To find out if there's a place to stay in this town."Yeah, that's it.

"Lindsay, wait."There was a loud thump as Ginny kicked off her shoe so that she could pull her leg out of her pants."StupidÉ trouser legÉstupid."

The older woman laid her bandaged hand on the door and softly said, "Good luck."

Ginny's eyes widened.She's serious?"Lindsay, don't you dare leave before I finish!" Ginny grunted in frustration as she buttoned the top of her dress with one hand and scooped up the clothes at her feet with the other.She burst out the door, her face flushed and hair disheveled as she stepped into the snow.She scanned the area around the outhouse. Lindsay was gone and a new set of footprints lead back towards the town."Argh.Lindsay."Angrily, she stuffed her clothes into their bag.When she straightened she gazed down the street unhappily and combed through her hair, which was growing damp from the falling snow, with one hand.She let out a tiny sigh and whispered into the wind, "Please, Lindsay, stay out of trouble."

Lindsay scowled fiercely at the items in the picture window and was about to step inside the general store when the sound of girlish giggles caused her to turn her head. "MmmÉ HmmÉ What do we have here?"Two pretty, teenage girls about the same age as Ginny approached her shyly, smiling and blushing the entire time.Reflexively, she smiled back, feeling a little guilty at the thoughts that instantly flooded her brain.What would Ginny think? she wondered, but just as quickly her rebellious side reminded her that Ginny wasn't here at the moment, and now she wouldn't have to resort to paying for it.She couldn't remember the last time she'd been forced to sink that low and now maybe she wouldn't have to.Just the thought made her sick.

But they're just girls, her more reasonable side reminded, only to be shot down when Lindsay got a good look at the taller of the two.She was slim but definitely full-grown, with long legs and broad shoulders.Oh, yeah.This could work out perfectly.

The boldest of girls said hello and Lindsay responded in kind, certain that this obvious flirting was only taking place because the girls thought she was some wet-behind-the-ears buck and not a woman.Oh, well.She gave a mental shrug.They'd figure it out soon enough and Ginny would never have to know exactly what happened. "Hello, girls," she said again, grinning roguishly.

"You're not from around here, are you?"The taller blonde girl found her voice again.

"NooÉ." Lindsay drew out the word smoothly, leaning against the store's wall and tucking her bandaged hands into her pockets. "I just came in from New York City."She purred the last word, hoping to add a little mystery and sophistication to what in her mind was a cesspool.

The quieter of the two girls blushed hotly and stammered, "Mercy. Th-that's a big place. Or so I've heard tell."

"Oh, it is.Very big," Lindsay agreed, eyeing her critically, and then deciding in favor of her friend.Still, it never hurt to have a backup.She glanced around until her gaze lit upon a spot that would afford them a little more privacy than in front of the town's biggest store.She briefly considered taking them back to the room she'd already secured for the night.But the alley would do in a pinch.This shouldn't take long."Care to take a walk with me?I could tell you all about the city?"

"Oh, I don't know," the shy one demurred, shifting uncomfortably from one foot to the other.

"You're smart not to trust strangers," Lindsay complimented the girl sincerely, a tiny sliver of guilt digging into her gut."But we could always introduce ourselves.Then we won't be strangers anymore."

"I'm Angie," came the anxious reply from the blonde, her voice brimming with excitement."And that's Greta."She indicated her red-faced friend.

"Pleasure to meet you both," Lindsay said, reserving judgment on whether or not to give her own name for later.She began slowly walking towards a narrow alley that separated the barbershop from the local bank.

Not to be left out, Greta reluctantly trailed after them both, worriedly looking around to see if anyone was watching.She lifted the hem of her dress and jogged the few steps necessary to catch up with her friend.Carol-Ann Johnson's wedding, which the entire town had attended, had ended just a few moments ago, and now people were starting to filter back onto the streets. Her papa had warned her about strangers, but this boy seemed so nice.Still, it was best to be cautious; her father wouldn't understand that the local boys were so boring that she craved talking to anyone new.

The trio ducked into the alley and Lindsay steeled her resolve, reminding herself that she did, indeed, want this.She gave the girls what she hoped was a charming grin."How would you ladies like me to not only tell you about New York City but also show you something I learned there?" Her smile turned inviting."I can guarantee you'll like it."

Angie squealed with delight and a wide-eyed Greta nodded, wondering what fantastic tales this beautiful young man had to tell.

Lindsay steered them deeper into the alley, forcing herself not to look over her shoulder for Ginny.

Ginny stepped into the church, not surprised to find the sanctuary empty.If she hadn't seen that old man outside the barbershop she'd swear Big Ugly was a beautiful ghost town.There were, however, several candles lit around the room."Anyone here?" she called out, stepping inside and carefully shutting the door.She brushed the snow off her shoulders, spinning in a circle as she took in the simple but well-kept room."Hello?"

A middle-aged woman shuffled out of the preacher's office, tucking a strand of brown hair back into her bun.She jumped back a step, obviously not expecting so see anyone in the church."Oh, hello."She laughed a little at herself."I'm sorry, I didn't hear you come in."

Ginny breathed a sigh of relief."That's fine, ma'am." She smiled warmly and the woman seemed to relax."You don't know how glad I am to see you.I was beginning to think there wasn't but one person in this entire town."

The woman laughed."That would be on account of the big Johnson wedding at the fancychurch across town.It's bigger and more suitable for a large crowd. I think just about everyone in town was planning on attending.I was using it as a good excuse to get some work done here." She continued to fiddle with her hair. "My daughter Greta and husband Arnold went to represent the family though," she added quickly, not wanting Ginny to think she was rude enough to snub Carol-Ann.

"I see.That's veryÉ errÉ neighborly of you." Ginny set her bag down on one of the pews and sucked in a nervous breath.This was it.The time had finally come.She threw her shoulders back, lifting her chin a little as she said, "Ma'am, my name is Virginia Chisholm and-"

"Oh, my." The woman anxiously crossed the room and stopped in front of Ginny. "You're the one looking for her brothers and sister, aren't you?"

"Oh, yes.I received a cablegram yesterday from a man who runs an orphanage.We don't have a phone for the church, but the general store can send and receive cables, of course.He warned me you might be heading here and-"

Blue eyes flashed with sudden anger and Ginny's fists clenched convulsively."You can't believe what Mr. Ward says."She could feel her hackles rise. "He's a liar who can't be trusted."

"A liar?"The woman looked confused."Who is Mr. Ward?" She frowned and shook her head in exasperation."I'm afraid I have no earthly idea what you're talking about.The cablegram was from a Mr. Christian Spence." Her face suddenly relaxed, easing the tiny creases that surrounded her mouth and eyes."Even from his few words I could tell what a wonderfully polite man he was.I wonder if he's single." She touched her chin with her index finger as she pondered."My Greta just turned seventeen last month."

Ginny's knees went weak with relief and her eyes fluttered closed for a moment.It wasn't Mr. Ward.Thank God.She hadn't imagined until now what harm a few simple cables could do to her search.She only hoped Mr. and Mrs. Ward hadn't thought of it either."Christian is very kind, ma'am."

"No need to be so formal," the woman assured Ginny kindly."I'm Mrs. Arnold Watts, the church secretary.But please do call me Josephine." She glanced back at the closed door by which Ginny had entered and then around the church. "Where's your friend?The undercover agent for the Child Protection Agency of New York?"Just saying the words gave Josephine a little thrill.She whispered conspiratorially to Ginny even though there was no one else around to hear their words, "Mr. Spence said she'd be posing as a man and that her work was so secretive she couldn't even reveal her name." Her eyes lit with glee and she clasped her hands together."How terribly thrilling."

Ginny bit back a laugh.How long was that cablegram?Oh, Christian, do we ever owe you one. "Yes, LindÉ agentÉ erÉ well, the woman helping me is frequently in disguise.It's best to not call her anything at all."She cleared her throat a little, wanting to get back to the matter at hand. "I'm here for my family, Josephine.My sister and two brothers-the Robsons."

"I'm afraid they're not here."She gave Ginny a contrite look, watching uncomfortably as the young woman absorbed the unhappy news.

Ginny closed her eyes and mumbled something under her breath that Josephine couldn't quite hear.All the same, the woman was sure it wasn't appropriate language in the House of the Lord.Or anywhere else for that matter.

"I couldn't give the information to Mr. Spence, you see. Privacy and all that.But seeing as how you're their sister, I can't think it would hurt you to know.No one ended up choosing them."Her forehead wrinkled."Sort of."

A wave of nausea hit Ginny, and Josephine encouraged her to sit with a gentle hand.Her eyes filled with tears and she swallowed hard."NoÉ" she paused and swallowed again, irrationally angry that no one found her siblings worth adopting."No-one wanted them?" She shook her head fiercely."There's nothing wrong with them!They're smart and beautiful andÉ."

Unconsciously, Josephine fed off Ginny's distress.Feeling a little upset herself, she quickly pulled a handkerchief from the pocket of her dress and offered it to Ginny.Her voice was a little panicky."Oh, it's not that. I'm sure your brothers and sister are all those things." Ginny still hadn't accepted the cloth so Josephine pressed it into slightly trembling hands."You look like you could use this.No, it wasn't that there was something wrong with the children, but in the end, no one came forward to adopt them.And we would have stopped it even if they had."

Ginny took the small cloth and wiped her cheeks, resentfully wishing Lindsay hadn't abandoned her."But you said-"

Josephine dropped down onto the pew next to Ginny."Let me explain, dear.Do you know how these children find families once they get here?"

"All right.Then if you'll be patient, I'll explain that too.This is only the second time a train has come to Big Ugly carrying orphans.Why, only last spring eight children found homes here," she stated proudly."Five girls and three boys.This year folks were looking for boys, probably because the mines have been short of little fellows or very young men for the past few months. For some reason the mines can never seem to have enough short men to doÉ" she waved her hands in the air, "Éwhatever small men do in coal mines."

Ginny paled a little at the thought of James or Lewis working in a dark, dank coal mine. Suddenly, she wasn't so upset they hadn't ended up in Big Ugly after all.

Josephine picked up a Bible that had been left on the pew and neatly stowed it in the holder on the back of the next pew."So because it was boys that people were after, your sister wasn't chosen."She smiled."I remember the little blonde girl myself."

"Fine.Fine." Josephine patted Ginny's hand, wanting to reassure her anyway she could."The girl didn't shed a tear the entire time; she was a chubby little thing, if I recall."

Ginny let out a half-sob and nodded."She is chubby. Mama's arms used to ache from holding her, so then me and AliceÉummÉshe isÉwas my sisterÉ well, we'd take turns.I don't think Jane's feet touched the ground for more than a minute for the first two years of her life.It's amazing she learned to walk at all."

The women shared watery smiles, each lost in their own memories of the children in their lives.

Josephine tried not to grimace. Their story was somewhat more distressing."After everyone inspected them-"

Josephine blinked, shocked at the banked flames she could see flickering behind Ginny's eyes.Like dry tinder, Ginny's anger was itching to combust."Oh, my," Josephine breathed."That was perhaps the wrong choice of words.You see, the children walk up there." She pointed to a 10x10 platform behind the pulpit where the town sometimes held children's plays and the church's choir stood to sing."And then everyone can see them without descending upon the children all at once and frightening them," she explained.

Ginny's eyes strayed to the stage as Josephine spoke.She imagined her brothers standing there as men and woman looked them over like pieces of meat.

"If they see a child or two they want they come to us, the Ladies Committee.I'm the treasurer this year." She smiled toothily as though that last bit was a grand announcement. "We're the ones who determine whether prospective parents are fit to adopt."

Ginny's voice was low and controlled."Let me understand this.You march the children up on stage to be inspected like livestock at auction or perhaps slaves, so that people decide whether or not they want them?And what about the homely or skinny child?Do they have to stand up on some stage in every town, wondering why no one wants them?"

Josephine's back went ramrod straight."That's not fair.How else are folks supposed to decide?" Her cheeks flushed."We don't see a picture or know anything about the children before they get here.The citizens who come to this church for those children are taking strangers into their homes, sometimes to live alongside their own flesh and blood children.I think it's a little much to expect them to do that sight unseen.Is it so different from how any orphanage works where people come to see the orphans?"

Ginny didn't have an answer for that and she ducked her head, a little ashamed by her outburst, though her blood still ran hot at the entire process.

"Some of the children were living on the streets back in New York. They were outside in the cold.Can you imagine that?"

Josephine continued, undaunted.This young woman wasn't the first person to criticize the way the Ladies Committee did things."Other children don't speak a word of English.Because of what we do, some of those children have families of their own and roofs over their heads." She wrung her hands together, truly upset that this young woman didn't see the good in what she and the other women were trying to do. "I understand that the process can seem a littleÉharsh.We aren't perfect, Virginia.But isn't the result the most important thing?"

"IÉYou're right, of course," Ginny said quietly, sinking deeper into the pew. Most of these orphans came from places exactly like Orchard Street.It was hard for her to remember that she and her siblings had been very luckyÉeven in that harsh place where she'd scrounged for every nickel and worked until she could fall asleep standing up, she'd always had what mattered most.Who was she to criticize a woman who was trying to give that to total strangers?She glanced up at Josephine, heartsick."I'm sorry."

Josephine let out a deep breath.It had been a long day and that had been building up inside her for far too long."It's all right, dear."The tips of her ears reddened when she realized how rude her defense of the Ladies Committee had been." I didn't mean to snap.If I were in your shoesÉ. Well," she sighed."I'm just glad I'm not."

"No, actually they did.They were all Christian families with some visible means of support."

Ginny shot to her feet and glared at Josephine."That's it?You let people take children based on that alone?"

"Like this?"Angie asked a little uncertainly, dragging her eyes up to meet Lindsay's.

"Oh, yeah. You're a natural," Lindsay praised."JustÉ ummÉ. Not quite so hard."

"Remember what String Bean said," Greta prompted her friend as she began buttoning her dress. "Don't use your entire arm.It's all in the wrist."She smirked at Angie, delighting in torturing her friend over the fact that she'd gotten to go first.Of course they were both undoubtedly going to hell for this.But she'd kissed Mickey Jackson only last week and was, most likely, already on her way there anyway."You'll be hard-pressed to do better than me, Angie."

Lindsay had to nod.Greta had been surprisingly spectacular.Especially for a beginner.

Lindsay laughed, not quite knowing how to deal with her sudden popularity.Maybe paying for it would have been easier.Sure would have been quicker. "Now, girls, no need for that."

Greta stuck her tongue out at Angie and tried not to think of the horrible sin she'd just committed.Of course, String Bean had been right.It was fun.Now she knew what all the boys had been grumbling about behind the school yard.If she'd only known then.

Lindsay rolled her eyes and focused on the taller girl."Are you ready, Angie?I'm playing for keeps here," she warned seriously."I don't want you do something you'll regret tomorrow." For all her bravado, it had been Greta not Angie who'd insisted on participating, even when she didn't know what to do.Angie had been content to stand back and watch.

Angie bit her lip then squealed delightedly."I can't believe I'm going to do it.Can you, Greta?" she asked her friend, her excitement practically bubbling over.

An expression of steely determination swept over Angie and she tossed her coat onto the snow and began to unbutton her dress.

Lindsay smiled and started at the buttons on her trousers, the motion a little difficult with her hands in bandages.

"Basically," Lindsay said.Greta had figured out that she was a woman almost immediately, so Lindsay came clean. To her surprise, instead of frightening the young women it intrigued them even more. Who knew the girls of Big Ugly were such rascals?

Greta finished buttoning her coat and stuffed her hands into her pocket."Ever done it with a woman before, String Bean?"

"Not before today," she admitted honestly.Then her thoughts turned to Ginny. "But damned if I haven't wanted to."

"I'm sorry I don't recall which boy was which," Josephine told Ginny.The women were both seated and looking much calmer than they had only moments before."A couple approached one of the boys on stage," she paused to cluck her disapproval, "and right there in front of God and everyone the boy started screaming that he was a Catholic and that he wasn't going anyplace with or without his brother and sister."She felt uncomfortable telling Virginia this next part, but obligation was, after all, more important than comfort."After that, the poor boy burst into tears and I'm afraid we had to take him outside and calm him down."She sighed."While I'm sure there are plenty of Catholics in New York City, there are none in Big Ugly.The two families were no longer interested."

The words were said so matter-of-factly that she didn't take offense.Ginny was too tired to bother."That would have been Lewis." Her guts were churning full-force at the thought of her brother's tears.You little stinker.You're too smart for your own good. She knew, however, that it wouldn't take long for the Ward's employees to make certain he never did something like that again.No one had better lay a single finger on him, she thought darkly."And James?"

"AhhhÉ" a heavy eyebrow arched."The second Robson brother also refused to be separated from his siblings.When one of the prospective parents didn't seem to be taking his request seriously, heÉummÉwell, he kicked him in theÉYou know," she murmured delicately, glancing down between her legs and waggling her eyebrows.

A tiny laugh exploded out of Ginny.Her hand flew to her mouth as more tears welled up, threatening to spill over.Her emotions were all over the place, confusing her even more.She couldn't tell whether to be glad that her brothers were fighting to stay together with each other and Jane or furious at them for being so stubborn.As it was, she was probably going to have to traipse across the entire nation before she'd find the family crazy enough to take them in.Despite herself, she chuckled, a sad smile on her face."That would definitely be my brother James."

Having told Ginny everything she knew, Josephine stood."We're not in the business of placing children in homes where they don't want to be.And it was clear your brothers wouldn't be happy with anyone here."She wiped her palms against her skirt, wondering what was keeping Greta.Surely the wedding was over by now."I'm sorry I couldn't have been more help."Her gaze softened."May God bless you and your journey, Virginia."

Ginny stood as well and gathered her bag.She sniffed a little as she backed towards the door."Thanks to you, I at least now know they're all right.And with or without God's blessing I intend on finding them."

The older woman inclined her head slightly."But a little help and a lot of luck never hurts."

"No," a genuine smile played at the edges of Ginny's mouth, "it never does.Thank you, Josephine."She was grateful for what little information she'd been able to glean and pushed open the door to be greeted by a blast of cold air.It would be dark soon and she needed to find Lindsay and a place for them to stay the night.

After asking a man on the street what her options in Big Ugly were, Ginny was directed to the local boarding house, a narrow, two-story home just off the main street.To her surprise, the plump proprietress told her that her friend had already paid for a room for the night.

The room was dark and cool and Ginny did nothing more than toss their bag on the bed before heading back down Main Street in search of Lindsay. As she walked, two young women approached her, too absorbed in their own conversation, which consisted mostly of shrieks of laughter and nervous giggles, to notice anyone in their path.

The redhead stepped out of their way and walked slowly backwards, her eyes going round as she noticed that one of the girls was wearing Lindsay's hat, and that the other was carrying-

"AHH!" A scream was torn from Ginny when a pair of hands shot out from the alley and dragged her inside."Ginny," was whispered in her ear, but her heart was pounding so loudly she couldn't hear it. Off balance, she began to fight and kick and the hands instantly fell away from her coat.She whirled around to fight back at her attacker and raised a fist.Eyes already the size of twin moons grew even larger."Lindsay?"

Lindsay backed up a step, panting."Jesus Christ!" she hissed under her breath."It's me, not the boogieman.And did you have to try and kill me?"Grimacing, she clutched one of her hands to her chest."I was just trying to get your attention without letting the entire town know I was here."

Ginny's mouth dropped open and her jaw dangled in the breeze.Now she knew what it was that one of the girls who'd passed her on the street was carrying.Her temper exploded as a tendril of white-hot jealousy intertwined with the anger she was still feeling over being ditched at the church.Together they formed a vise around her heartÉ and squeezed."What the hell happened to your pants?"

"Don't you swear at me!" Lindsay blinked a few times, startled by her own statement."Something is wrong with this entire conversation."

"What's wrong is that you're naked!"Ginny wanted to stamp her foot.Instead, with jerky, angry movements, she shrugged out of her coat and hurled it at Lindsay, hitting her squarely in the face.

Lindsay peeled it off her head, throwing Ginny an icy look of warning, which Ginny promptly ignored.

Lindsay's teeth were starting to chatter and she prayed for it to get darker quicker.Still refusing to take Ginny's coat she said, "But-but what about you?"

Ginny hugged herself, already feeling the chill as snow pelted her dress and stuck to the thin cloth."My legs aren't blue and hanging out in the wind." Then she caught a good look at the snow-covered head and sighed, a little of her anger and hurt giving way to worry."You're just trying to get sick, aren't you?" she whispered thickly.

"'Course not," Lindsay protested feebly, shaking her head to dislodge the snow.There had been several times in her life when she wished the earth would open up and swallow her whole.Those times, however, paled in comparison to the misery and embarrassment she felt at this very moment.There was no use in praying for a tornado to come and scoop her away.She wasn't that lucky.

"Come on," Ginny said quickly."It's dark enough so that no one will see you."I hope."

Lindsay shook her head grimly."A few more minutes yet."She peered out onto the quiet street."I don't want to get thrown in jail."

"It's not what it looks like, Ginny."Brown eyes begged the younger woman to believe her.

Twin red eyebrows disappeared behind windblown bangs."It looks like you're standing in an alley half naked and somehow two pretty young twits ended up with your pants and cap."

Ginny didn't bother to disguise her hurt or confusion."Why?I don't understand.I thoughtÉ." She lifted a hand, then let it drop to her side.She closed her eyes."I don't know what I thought."

"Damn, Ginny, it's not like it was that horrible," Lindsay protested."The girls had fun."

"Well, in that case," Ginny shouted, not caring at that very moment if the entire town caught Lindsay in her underpants."Everything is just terrific!"

Ginny looked at Lindsay as though the rail-rider had lost her mind. "I don't believe it," she murmured.

"I know!"Suddenly, Lindsay was inconsolable."But, Jesus Christ, Ginny, the dresses in the store window were $3.00.THREE DOLLARS!For a dress.A pair of waist overalls only cost $.90 and denim is stronger!"

"You were playing craps for a dress?" Ginny clarified with exaggerated slowness, still quite sure she'd heard Lindsay wrong.

"Yes," Lindsay repeated, clearly frustrated at having to do so.It all seemed rather obvious to her."Don't make me mention the losing part again, all right?" she pleaded.

Lindsay kicked at the snow."They were ready to turn 'em over." Shit, here I go again."Only I'm the one who kept losing."

A tiny incredulous smile began to twitch at Ginny's lips as the weight of the world lifted from her shoulders and her upset stomach began to ease.

"They won your pants off you, eh?Oh, Lindsay."Ginny began to laugh."That's pitiful."

Brown eyes narrowed."If you breathe a word of this to anyoneÉI'llÉI'll," a triumphant look finally swept across her face, "I'll tell everyone we meet that you kissed your sister."

By the time they both darted out of the shadows, Lindsay was reasonably sure that she wasn't going to be sleeping in the local livery stable.

A small box of matches sat next to a kerosene lamp and Ginny picked it up with fingers that were clumsy from the cold.

"I'll light the stove next-next," Lindsay chattered."Damn." She began jumping up and down a little."This floor is like ice."She tossed Ginny's coat over a small chair in the corner of the room before heading straight for their bag and the blankets inside.She grabbed them both and dropped one onto the bed as she shook the other out and began to wrap it around Ginny's shoulders.

Ginny fitted the globe over the lit wick and back into its holder, illuminating the room in a golden glow that caused the ice crystals in her hair and eyebrows to glitter like diamonds.

"There."Ginny flicked her gaze sideways and saw Lindsay standing with the blanket held open for her."Oh, yesss."She would have smiled gratefully, had her cheeks not been blocks of ice."BrrrÉ. Hold that thought, okay?" Her hands set to work on the buttons that went up the top half of her dress."I don't want to get the blanket wet."

Lindsay nodded and remained stock-still, torn between looking away and staring at Ginny.Her heart began to beat a little faster, sending a rush of warm blood through her.

Ginny removed her dress, shoes, and underclothes in a matter of seconds.Any nervousness about being naked in front of Lindsay had long since faded as the trust between them grew.When she was finished, she kicked away the wet clothes and steadily met Lindsay's penetrating gaze. "Lindsay?"She began to rub her arms.

"Oh," Lindsay murmured, as Ginny's voice pulled her from her thoughts.She wrapped the blanket around the shivering body and pulled it close, pressing her cold cheek against Ginny's."I'm sorry I stink so bad at craps."

Ginny laughed at the unexpected apology that was justÉ so Lindsay."Me too.Tomorrow we'll b-buy you a dress and a p-pa-pair of pants."She felt Lindsay draw in a breath to speak and cut her off by simply saying, "We will."

Lindsay's protest died on her lips and she tightened her hold, absorbing the comfort of having Ginny in her arms. "I'll put on your trousers and light the fire then.I can go down to the kitchen and bring up some food.The room comes with bread and soup."

Ginny's stomach grumbled again at the mere thought of food, but her chilled skin demanded more immediate attention.Her hand snaked out from behind the blanket and she gave a sharp tug on Lindsay's shirt."Nuh uh." She shook her head, scattering a few drops of water onto Lindsay."Too cold.Take this off and come to bed first."

And as easy as that Lindsay willingly gave in again.Unfortunately, now was also the time to face the music."I shouldn't have left you this afternoon."

Lindsay's heart ached from the beautiful, awful words.And I wasn't there."I'm so sorry.I won't do it again.I promise."She felt Ginny's answering nod against the side of her face and pulled back, but not before long arms gave a final, heartfelt squeeze.She quickly stripped out of her coat, shirt, stockings, and underpants, leaving her as naked and exposed as the day she was born.

Ginny reached out and pinched her, relieving the tension in the room and letting Lindsay know that she was forgiven.Again.

Both women scurried into bed and under the blankets, giggling a little as they wiggled around, settling in.They stopped moving with their bodies facing each other, less than a foot apart, with the blankets pulled up to their ears.

Lindsay reached out and placed her hand on Ginny's forearm.The bandages wrapping her fingers were cool to the touch but not wet, and only the tips of her fingers peeked out to feel soft skin."Better?" she burred, low and concerned.

They shared slightly nervous, expectant smiles.The night before leaving New York, when they were alone like this, safe and warm, had been filled with soft, tender kisses, increasingly bold touches, and gently murmured words of hope and healing that burrowed deep into each woman's soul and found a home.It was something they both desperately wanted to continue.

Lindsay lifted the fingers that were now grazing Ginny's arm to the fairer woman's face.She traced her jaw and cheekbones and pushed back a lock of silky hair.

Ginny sighed and leaned into the touch.She was calm and yet at the same time alive with sensation, as the slightly rough woolen blanket peeked out from behind heavy cotton sheets and brushed against her bare skin.The tips of soft fingers left goosebumps in their wake as they skimmed her face.

"What about your brothers and sisters?" Lindsay whispered, half-knowing the answer by the simple fact that Ginny hadn't said anything about them sooner.I should have asked earlier. .

"Soon," Ginny agreed, not opening her eyes.Licking flames, broken promises, and crying children still invaded her dreams.It was time to reclaim her waking hours.She consciously let herself feel the warm rush of Lindsay's breath against her face as she spoke and imagined that she could hear the strong heart beating so close to her own.

The quiet moment between them lengthened, and Lindsay found herself mesmerized by the feeling of Ginny's skin and the deep, almost overwhelming sense of longing that gripped her.Suddenly, she wanted more of everything.More of the gentle passion she so often saw lurking behind soft blue eyes.More of what they could be to each other if they only knew what to do or what to say.

Lindsay leaned forward, bridging the small gap between them and brushing her mouth against Ginny's.As the sweet contact grew firmer, lips parted easily and eager tongues explored and mapped, drawing breathy moans and sighs from each woman as the kiss stretched on endlessly.With her entire body, she leaned closer still, until Ginny was on her back and Lindsay was perched carefully atop her, using her forearms to support most of her weight.

Ginny gasped at the unexpected sensation of bare skin on bare skin as they touched with the entire length of their bodies.Her eyes flew open as a searing bolt of desire tore through her and settled in her groinÉto smolder."Lindsay," she breathed hotly, scarcely knowing what else to say, her eyes darkened with arousal. She opened her mouth, unsure of what was going to come out, only to be stopped by the slightly rough pads of two fingers pressed against her lips.She's so soft!

"I'll move if you want me to," Lindsay whispered, willing Ginny to want this more intimate connection between them as much as she did."I don't want to frighten you."

There was an urgency to Lindsay's voice that captured Ginny so completely she forgot how to breathe.

"I-I love you and I just wanted to be closer to you." Brown eyes gone amber in the lamplight anxiously searched the youthful face below hers."I wanted to feel you.To feel us, Ginny."She paused and swallowed hard, waiting for the lump that had grown in her throat to ease, and passed the time by placing feather light kisses full of affection and wistfulness on Ginny's eyebrows and cheeks."I don't think this is wrong. At least it's not for me."

Lindsay's heart was thumping wildly against Ginny's chest and the other woman knew that hers was pounding just as fiercely.Helpless to do anything but respond to the spirit calling out to hers, Ginny pushed down her momentary panic and allowed herself to fully experience the sensation of soft breasts and firm nipples that tickled when pressed against hers.An involuntary moan was wrung from her.There was instant heat as smooth bellies met and legs tangled together."I knew you loved me," Ginny explained quietly, a look of wonder shimmering in her eyes."I could feel it in my heart."

Simultaneously, they let out deep breaths. Tiny smiles made a surprise showing through the tears when they each relaxed a little, and their bodies melted into each other a little more firmly, making it hard to tell where one ended and the other began.They memorized the precious moment, tucking it safely away in deep inside themselves to be taken out later and savored slowly.

"Do you really think it's," Ginny paused and lifted her head to brush her lips across Lindsay's, "Éall right for two woman to feel this way.To want this?" she asked softly, not quite understanding how she could know something deep in her bones but still feel the need to question it.

Lindsay thought about that for a few seconds before she answered, knowing how important her answer was to her companion.A sigh."IÉI don't know what's right for other folks.And except for how it makes you feel, I don't care."She watched as Ginny's brow furrowed."I don't have anyone to disappoint," she reminded her gently. "Anyone except you."

The urge was too strong to deny, and Ginny leaned up and kissed Lindsay again.This time with a gentle intensity that decimated the darker woman's ability to think. "MmmÉ" she hummed a little as they separated, utterly entranced by this sometimes crazy, funny, tough and tender woman."I'm far from disappointed in you, Lindsay.You mean everything to me."

They kissed again, slowly, deeply, asking time to stand still as they greedily indulged in each other."And you mean everything to me," Lindsay finally murmured against moist lips, her body thrumming with excitement. "I don't think being together this wayÉ" she trailed her fingertips over Ginny's lips, "is wrong." Her voice grew steely."Even if they try, other people can't tell me the right way to feel about you, Ginny. ItÉitÉ" she searched for the words to express what being with Ginny meant to her, how her life now felt different and happy and whole.Finally, she simply settled on, "It just is."

And that was something that resonated so clearly within Ginny she was able look beyond her fears and embrace what she knew, deep down inside, to be the purest of truths."It's good that you said that, Lindsay."

"Mmm hmmÉBecause my heart's already decided on you." She shook her head a little."I-I don't know how but I do know why." She nearly laughed at Lindsay's shocked but undeniably lovesick expression.Then Ginny sobered, her voice lowering even further."I'm stillÉ I'm still a little scared, I guess."

Lindsay leaned forward and very gently rubbed noses with Ginny."A team then, you and me. We stick together no matter what."

Ginny's smile rivaled Lindsay's and she felt her breath catch when she tried to speak.She lifted her hands and cupped cheeks flushed pink and bathed in soft lamplight. She drew her hands through dark hair."Through thick and thin."

When their lips met again it was more than a showing of devotion or even heartfelt passion.

The tension in the room plummeted and Lindsay scooted down a little and shifted so that she could lay her head just above Ginny's breasts.She sighed softly at the feeling of warm skin against her cheek.

Ginny grinned and wrapped her arms around Lindsay, feeling as though she held a very precious gift.

"Ca-can we go slow?" She laid her hand on Ginny's stomach, its concave shape making her frown.They were missing too many meals."I'm notÉ well, I'm not sure what to doÉexactly." Oh, that was brilliant.She winced internally, feeling her cheeks flame.Then she remembered one or two things she liked to do alone that were bound to be better with Ginny and she blushed even hotter. "I'm an idiot," she mumbled, lifting her head to gauge Ginny's reaction.

Ginny blinked, never having seen a human being that particular shade of red before.A relieved smile curled her lips and she drew her hands down the gentle slope of Lindsay's back."You're not an idiot, sweetheart."

For a second, Ginny's courage faltered.She'd used the term many times in her head.But this time it had tumbled out before she could censure herself. "Is that okay?I mean when we're all alone?" she asked quickly."I'm sorry if-"

Ginny let out a deep breath."Slow is perfect.We don't have to do everything all at once.Even thoughÉ well, with two women I'm not sure what everything even is."Though her mind was spinning with possibilities.Her expression turned impish."I'm more than willing to try and figure things out together, if you are."

Ginny's words were met with a wicked chuckle.Lindsay nuzzled the soft skin at the swell of Ginny's breast, then kissed it, pulling a surprised groan of pleasure from deep in the other woman's throat.

Lindsay's voice was a sexy purr and Ginny gulped, wondering wryly just what she'd just gotten herself into. Glad beyond measure that she'd finally made the leap, she moaned again, responding instinctively to Lindsay's tender, inquisitive touch.

"Welcome to Talking Rock, Georgia." Ginny pointed to the sign she was reading as she and Lindsay stepped out of the railroad station and onto the street. "PopulationÉ What?"The last two numbers on the sign looked as though they had been recently painted, and she wondered idly whether a few new adoptions might be the cause."I can't believe they'd bother to stop someplace so small."

Lindsay shouldered their bag and chuckled, already unbuttoning her coat in deference to the fifty-degree weather."Christ," she scoffed, "I could spit off the roof of a building in the Lower East Side and hit more people than that."

Ginny turned her head to face her friend and raised a playful eyebrow."What a lovely mental picture."

"My pleasure." Lindsay smiled brightly. "C'mon," she gently grasped Ginny's sleeve and steered her towards the building in her sights."I can't believe it, but it looks like this place has a city hall or court house or something."She gestured with her chin to a three story wooden structure that proudly flew the American and Confederate flags from its twin flagpoles out front.

Lindsay absently pushed her lock of blowing hair from her face.She scowled, hating that she'd lost her hat.Not to mention that the circumstances under which she'd lost it were still too horrific to contemplate.

Ginny saw the motion and sighed.Before leaving Big Ugly they'd purchased Lindsay the least expensive dress in the store, which still managed to cost $2.25, and a pair of denim pants.She wanted to buy her a hat as well, but her friend insisted that they couldn't afford to spend the extra $.45.Ginny pulled the cap from her head.She bumped hips with Lindsay and her friend's eyes shifted sideways."Here." She held out her hat.

Lindsay stared at the cap in confusion."You want me to hold it?"

"Nuh uh.I want you to have it."She held up a hand to forestall the protest she could already see forming on Lindsay's lips."It's not the kind I'm used to wearing anyway, Lindsay. And it looks stupid when I'm wearing a dress."And what's mine is yours.

"True," Ginny allowed, "but I'm quite certain that you'll be back into your beloved trousers as soon as you can."

Lindsay gave her a slightly worried smile, a bit of insecurity bleeding through her normal confidence."Do I look that uncomfortable in this?" She tugged unhappily at the brown skirt."It's just been so long since-"

Ginny stopped their progress with a hand on Lindsay's shoulder."You look beautiful," she smiled fondly."Like always." Though privately, Ginny had to admit that she'd grown rather fond of her gangly companion in men's attire.It reflected her friend's free spirit in a way a plain dress never could."There's nothing wrong with you being more comfortable in what you're used to." She held up the cap again. "Please take it."

Hesitantly, Lindsay reached out and relieved her of the hat, accepting it for what it was-a simple gift from the heart."Thank you," was all she said, delighting Ginny, who had been bracing herself for more of a fuss.Lindsay reached out and playfully tugged a lock of hair, enjoying the fact that it wasn't hiding under a cap."It's growing out."

Ginny's blue eyes twinkled, reflecting the fading glints of the afternoon sun"Thank goodness."She knew she'd developed a habit of pushing aside her bangs with impatient fingers and she had to force herself not to do it now."It must have been singed to pieces to have earned me this shaggy cut."

Lindsay shrugged."I like it," she said honestly, as they resumed their trek.It seemed a little odd to be having this conversation after all this time.But Ginny tended, she knew, to jabber when she got nervous.

They grew quiet as they approached the building.Unconsciously, Ginny eased herself a little closer to Lindsay as they walked.

Ginny let out a deep, frustrated breath.They had been disappointed so many times already, with each time more crushing than the last.It made her physically ill just thinking about.Her jaw clenched against the sensation."How can I not?"

Lindsay thought about that for a moment."All right," she conceded. "Be a little nervous." Her voice deepened."But you don't need to be scared."

Ginny smiled through the tension roiling in her guts.My protector.Unobtrusively, her hand drifted sideways a few inches and gently grasped Lindsay's.

They'd thrown away the bandage covering the rail-riders' hands the night before, though her last three fingers on one hand remained splinted and taped together, and a smaller bandage was still taped over the knuckles of her other hand.

"We're going in together, right?" Ginny asked softly, knowing the answer but craving the reassurance just the same.

Lindsay knew better than to make the mistake she had the day before."Count on it."

An hour later, a very pale Ginny pushed open the tall doors of the Talking Rock City Hall and stepped outside.Lindsay followed immediately, laying her palm on the small of Ginny's back as they descended the steps.The sun traveled behind a curtain of wispy clouds and it seemed a little cooler than when they'd gone inside.

"I can't believe it," Ginny said, her voice shaky. "We found one of them." She wondered briefly if Lindsay could hear her pounding heart."Lewis is here."

"It was bound to happen sometime." They had, Lindsay admitted, finally gotten lucky.It was such a foreign sensation she almost didn't know how to cope.Ginny had explained her situation to the clerk, who had processed three adoptions from the Wards' boxcar of orphans. The clerk had eagerly given her the names of the family that had taken Lewis in.Now, armed with directions, a wish of good luck, and the sincerest apologies on behalf of the City of Talking Rock, they set out to hike the three miles to the country home of Jon and Lana Bergquist.

"Should we get a room first?It'll be well past dark before we get there, much less make it back into town for the night."Though she was more than happy to find a place to sleep outside, especially in this more temperate climate, she didn't know how Ginny would feel about doing that, particularly with Lewis in tow. "Then again, if we end up having to snatch him, it won't be safe to get a room in town.Maybe we should buy an extra blanket and some food just in case?"

Ginny stopped walking and rubbed her temples.She hadn't thought of any of those things and she suddenly felt overwhelmed. "IÉMaybeÉYesÉorÉ" She groaned at her own inability to make a firm decision."I don't know."

Lindsay sighed and wrapped her arm around her."Okay, first things first.We meet the Bergquists and then decide.Maybe we could come back for him in the morning?"

The Bergquist home sat on the edge of a narrow dirt road that wound its way through the Georgia mountains.They hadn't even had a dusting of snow this winter and tall, brittle blades of brown grass blew gently in the breeze.The women could smell the smoke from the chimney long before the house came into view.It was dark, but the moon was full and bright, illuminating their surroundings in bluish-silver hues.

And then they saw it, nestled between a cluster of creaking, leafless oaks.The house was small but well kept with a split-rail wooden fence that enclosed a good-sized yard.Fifty feet or so behind the house stood a narrow red barn, an outhouse, a well-house constructed of stone, and a tiny shack.Based on the sounds coming from inside the shack, it served as a chicken coop. The latch on the coop door was loose, and the thin wooden slab rattled helplessly against the frame with every gust of wind.

"It looksÉnice.In a country sort of way," Ginny said, stopping at the mouth of a short path that led to the front door.She spun in a circle, absorbing the outdoors and feeling as out of sorts as she had in Big Ugly."God, Lindsay, it's so quiet here and still so noisy.You can hear everything." Her thoughts turned inward."I can hardly believe he's in there.I think I'm afraid to find out that he's not and that this has all been some sort of horrible mistake. "

Before she could utter another word the door to the house opened up, spilling firelight and the sound of childish laughter into the night.Three little girls, all in pigtails, and ranging from ages 4-12, ran outside.Two of them carried wooden buckets.Hot on their heels was Lewis, giggling right along with them as he jumped off the porch.

Ginny's hand flew to her mouth and her knees weakened at the sight of her brother.

Lindsay reached out to steady her, unconsciously holding her breath, in equal parts anxious and afraid at how the scene would unfold.

The children caught sight of the strangers in their yard, and the oldest of the girls ran inside the house yelling, "Papa, Mama, we can't go get water-somebody's here!"

Lindsay studied the boy curiously.Other than his red hair, he didn't really resemble Ginny.Must look like the dad.

Ginny drew in a sobbing breath."Lew-" The word broke and she was forced to swallow a few times before she could try again.She felt Lindsay take her hand and squeeze it gently."Lewis?"

"It's me, Lewis," Ginny forced out again, too afraid to step forward lest he fade away like a ghost in the mist.

An enormous smile broke out across the boy's face and his cheeks creased into dimples so familiar Lindsay felt a tug in her heart."Ginny!"He sprinted across the yard as fast as his feet could carry him, the bottoms of his shoes slipping on the grass every few feet, nearly causing him to crash to the ground on several occasions.

Thank you.Lindsay felt her heart resume beating and let go of Ginny just long enough for the young woman to drop to her knees and open her arms.

Lewis flew into them.The impact sent Ginny sprawling onto her back into the dirt.She couldn't have cared less.Crying, she pulled him close, squeezing him so tightly the boy could hardly breathe."Oh, Lewis."

"Ginny!" he squealed enthusiastically, returning his sister's embrace with equal fervor.

Lindsay looked away, a little surprised at the tightness in her throat and feeling very much like an intruder on this special familial moment.Then she noticed the outline of a man and woman in the doorway of the small house.Even in the shadows she could tell that they were an older coupleÉ and not happy.She stepped forward to intercept them, bound and determined to give Ginny the sweet reunion with her brother that she deserved.

Oblivious to Lindsay's absence, Ginny sat up, taking Lewis with her.She pressed several sloppy kisses on his face, which he endured with good humor, not squawking out his usual Ôyuck' at the attack of sisterly affection.Then she held him at arm's length and took a long, hard look at him.

He was sporting a slick new haircut and wore a new coat over clean but plain homemade clothes.One of the questions that had been making her guts roil for the past month was finally answered.He didn't appear to have any lingering physical effects from the fire

"You're all right, Lewis?" Ginny nodded vigorously to herself, continuing to eye every inch of him critically."You're all right," she repeated in a hushed voice, more to reassure herself than to pose an actual question to her brother.

He regarded her curiously, almost as if seeing her for the first time.He blinked a few times, his young face wearing the most serious expression she'd ever seen. "You look like Mama."

The stark words hung between them, piercing both their hearts and unerringly reminding them both of everything they'd lost.

Suddenly, Ginny couldn't meet her brother's eyes.Oh, Lewis."I know," she whispered brokenly.

"I told them you weren't dead," he explained quickly, thinking that perhaps Ginny was angry with him."I told them!" And with that, tears finally began to shimmer in pale gray eyes. "Nobody would listen."His face began to crumble and his voice took on a panicky edge."They took James and Jane.I'm sorry.I promise, I tried to stop them-"

"ShhhÉ" Ginny soothed, gently stroking his cheeks."We're going to make it, Lewis.You'll see."

He began to cry in earnest, quiet tears that Ginny felt more keenly than her own.

"No."She grabbed him by the shoulders and gave him a tiny shake. "You don't have to apologize for anything.This is not your doing."

He stilled, gazing at her doubtfully as he processed the words, willing himself to stop crying.Only babies or girls cried.But to his shame he'd always been prone to tears."Where were you?"

The voice held more curiosity than recrimination, but the question still tore at Ginny's heart.She didn't bother to try and stanch the tide of hot, salty tears streaming down her cheeks."They took me to the hospital on Blackwell's Island," she explained patiently, sniffing as she spoke and praying that he'd understand. "The fire, or I guess just the hot air from the fire, burned the inside of my throat and I was having trouble breathing. I was there for a long time, Lewis."

At the word "fire" Lewis' skin took on a noticeably green pallor and Ginny instantly regretted she'd brought it up."I'm sorry," she whispered, pulling him close again, feeling his small chest meld to hers and slim arms wrap tightly around her.

Ginny squeezed her eyes shut, fairly bursting with love for this sensitive, young boy."It did a little," she admitted, not wanting to lie."But you need to know that I didn't want to leave you.The moment I was released from the hospital I started looking for you and James and Jane."

"I knew it," he muttered against her neck, the skin moist from tears. "I knew you wouldn't leave us."

Ginny gently pried him from her, and, looking him squarely in the eye, she cupped his chin with a steady hand."Never," she swore."I would never leave you on purpose." She paused and willed her pounding heart to slow."We're family forever," she whispered, causing him to fling himself at her once again."Nothing is more important than that."

Her gaze drifted to Lindsay, who was standing on the porch, talking with the Bergquists, the other children gathered around them anxiously.She closed her eyes again."Nothing."

Lana Bergquist crossed her arms over her ample chest and turned her back on Ginny and Jon and Lindsay.They were in the barn, discussing Lewis' fate. Ginny and the Bergquists had been arguing for so long that they'd all lost track of the time.Lana sniffed and wiped at her face angrily.Both she and Ginny had been reduced to tears several times already."No," she whispered brokenly.

Jon sighed and wrapped his arms around his wife from behind.He didn't want to give the boy up either, but it wasn't right to break up an intact family.He rested his chin on her shoulder."LanaÉhoney."

"No!She's just a girl herself.She can't take him." Her voice trailed off and, "We've waited so long for a son," was barely audible.

"You were younger than Virginia when our Katherine was born," he reminded softly, smiling a little at the thought of his oldest daughter who was now a teacher in Atlanta and the mother of two beautiful girls herself.They had tried and tried for a boy, but after their last baby the midwife informed them in no uncertain terms that another delivery would kill Lana.

Lindsay leaned close to Ginny and pressed her lips gently against her ear to whisper, "We've been out here for a while.Would you like me to go inside and check on Lewis and the other children?"She winced internally, knowing that she hadn't done a very good job of keeping the hopefulness out of her voice. Confrontations like she'd had with Jean and Jacque or Albert or even the Wards were something she could handle.But this-with Ginny and Lana looking like they were both about to fracture apart at any moment and Jon barely keeping it together for his wife's sake-it was all too much.

Ginny wiped her cheeks with shaky fingers and nodded.The tension around Lindsay's eyes was so painfully evident that she felt a little sick at her stomach at the sight.She hurts for me as much as I do.She hadn't acknowledged Lindsay's presence since the adults had adjourned to the barn to talk in private.But the silent support the rail rider had offered Ginny-the casual, warm palm that came to rest against the small of her back, the eyes that promised they would work things out somehow-meant everything.And now her friend needed some air."That's a good idea."

She patted Lindsay's side gently, her eyes drifting to small window.Ginny frowned.The moon was high in the sky."It's been longer than I thought."

In a much louder voice, Lindsay announced she'd check on the children and be back in a few minutes.Before she was out the door, Ginny had asked about the farm and Talking Rock, and the Bergquists eagerly shifted topics in favor of something more benign.

Lindsay pushed open the door and took a deep breath of cold night air that whisked away the earthy scent of hay and livestock.She absently pulled the edges of her coat together, trying not to feel guilty for leaving the barn.They seem like nice enough folks, but why do they have to talk about this endlessly?

She stood out in front of the house and lifted a hand to knock. Deciding that the children were most likely asleep, she let her hand drop and quietly stepped inside.

It was dark, the orange coals in the fireplace providing the only light.It took a few seconds for her eyes to adjust and then she spotted Lewis sitting nervously on the davenport.

"Hi," Lindsay said quietly as she shut the front door.She held up her hand."One minute, okay?I want to check on the other kids."

Lewis nodded and silently led Lindsay to a large back bedroom that the three girls shared.Lindsay peered at the bed that contained the sleeping children.Not knowing what else to do, she placed her fingers in front of each little mouth so that she could make sure they were all breathing.

Lindsay lifted an eyebrow at the boy, then padded quietly out into the living room where she fed the fire several short logs from a wooden bin along the wall, careful not to use her injured fingers.When she was finished she straightened and dusted her hands on her skirt before turning to Lewis.

He was staring at her and it made her uncomfortable."Who are you?Someone from the orphanage?" he asked curiously, hoping that wasn't the case.

"'Course not," she answered, dropping down on the davenport with soundless sigh."I'm a friend of your sister's."

Lewis' face suddenly brightened."I'm Lewis," he said happily, extending a small hand.

Lindsay smiled."Pleased to meet you Lewis. I'mÉ" she paused not sure exactly what to say."I'm Lindsay, I guess."It sounded so strange coming from her own lips.

"Good."His gaze slid sideways to the door."Is Ginny talking to Uncle Jon and Aunt Lana?"

Lindsay's eyebrows jumped."Uncle and Aunt."

Lewis shrugged one shoulder and brought his stockinged feet up onto the davenport to sit Indian style."They asked if I wanted to call them Ma and Pa, but I said no."

"Mmm.Were they unhappy that you didn't want to?"She picked at a tiny piece the davenport's fabric, well aware that she wasn't very good at fishing for information."Maybe they were even mad enough to give you a whippin'?"

"No!"Lewis looked horrified."They don't do that.Annie said, well, she's eight and is always trying to steal my biscuits.Annie alwaysÉ"

Lindsay stifled a chuckle.Like his sister, Lewis could hold his own in the conversation department."LewisÉ" she reminded gently, her voice reminding him what they were talking about.

"Oh.Right.Anyway, my first day here I dropped a plate." He winced."I was sure I was gonna get it."His own parents used spanking quite frequently as a means of punishment or way to control the boys when they got too rambunctious."But she told me they've never spanked her once.They don't believe in it."He didn't quite know what that meant, other than his backside would be safe.

Lindsay looked a little surprised, idly wishing that her father had had similar thoughts when it came to child rearing.

"As for them being unhappy about it what I saidÉ WellÉ." Lewis considered that for a moment."A little I guess.So I said that, since I didn't have any Uncles or Aunts or anything, I could call them that, if they wanted."

Lindsay leaned forward and rested her elbows on her knees.I might as well make the most of my time. I need to go back soon."Are you happy here?Would you rather stay than come with your sister and me?"

Again, Lindsay was surprised when Lewis hesitated in his answer.She hadn't really considered that any of the children could bond with their new family so quickly.Which was a little ridiculous, she privately admitted, considering how she felt about Ginny.

"I do like it here," he said carefully."Uncle Jon is a vet-vent-vat-" He scowled and tried again."A vent-vet-vent-"

Lindsay narrowed her eyes as she tried to decipher what the boy was saying."A ventriloquist?" She shivered."God."She'd seen one of those once in a saloon in Kansas City.Of course, after the show the crowd had demanded their money back, attacked the performer, and ripped that queer little head clean off his dummy.

Lewis snapped his fingers."That's it.And I'm his apprentice," he informed her excitedly, his pride in the announcement written across elfin features.

Lindsay made a face.They have apprentices?"What the hell do they need apprentices for?"

Lindsay couldn't help but smile.She'd heard this lecture from another redhead."Sorry," she offered with as much contriteness as she could muster."So you're going to make a puppet or doll or whatever talk when you grow up?"We're stealing him tonight!

"OhhhhÉ." The light of understanding finally dawned on Lindsay.Maybe Georgia isn't as odd as I thought it was. "A veterinarian."

"Right. That's what I said.Didn't you hear me?You talk normal so you should be able to understand me.Everyone else here has a funny accent."

Lindsay nodded."I know."Her jaw worked silently for a moment.This was going to kill Ginny."I guess now we need to tell your sister you don't want to come with her." And then see if she's willing to let you go.

"No!"Lewis shot to his feet."I love it here but I love Ginny more!" Desperately, he looked around the room, ready to bolt if need be."She hasn't left yet, has she?She promised!I-"

Lindsay reached out and grabbed Lewis by the sleeve, tugging him back to the davenport. "ShhÉ Relax. You'll wake the girls.Ginny's still here," she promised, feeling bad that she'd unintentionally frightened the boy so.She let out a raspy breath and mentally crossed her fingers."So you do want to leave?"

"I don't want to leave Uncle Jon and Aunt Lana or leave Ginny," he clarified miserably."If I stay here I'm going to be an apprentice in just a few more years.It's not the same as my real folksÉbut Jon and Lana are nice and listen to me when I talkÉ like Ginny does.And I have my own room, and Aunt Lana makes the best blueberry pies."

Lindsay leaned back against the sofa with an unhappy grunt. She let her head fall back and her eyes fluttered closed."Then I guess we've got to think of a plan so that we can all be happy."And this plan had better be a hell of a lot better than your last one, String Bean.

Fifteen minutes later, Lindsay and Lewis headed to the barn with their hearts in their throats.

Two men jumped from a moving train, tumbling down a gravel-filled embankment and coming to a violent crash at the bottom.

"Damn," Bo cursed.He stood up and brushed off his coat, drawing in a deep breath of pine-scented air.He glanced down at Albert who was sitting back on his heels, trying to catch his breath."Here we are."

Albert shook his head.He was going to make Lindsay suffer twice as much for making him chase her ass out into the middle of nowhere.

Bo took off his Derby and scratched his head."What's the name of this place again?"

Albert made a face."In Big Ugly they said the name on the paper was Talking Rock." The men had counted piss-poor, whistle-stop towns for hour after hour until they'd hit the twelfth town.

Bo laughed humorlessly and began to walk towards the flickering lights of houses in the distance."Can't believe a damn thing that comes out of people's mouths nowadays."

"It's too late to find String Bean." Bo extended his arms out in front of him, stretching his sore back."Let's go get a drink."

Albert grunted and unconsciously patted the railroad schedule in his coat pocket.He'd already planned on nabbing her when she tried to board the next outbound train in the morning.

"No," Albert chuckled and fell in step behind Bo, "the guy who I'm going to rob is."

Ginny tucked the thick quilt up under Lewis' chin.She smiled and pushed back bangs the same color as her own.The tiny room was dark, except for a sliver of moonlight that painted the narrow twin bed.

The boy flashed her a brilliant, if sleepy, smile."Can I really come back here and still be an apprentice?" he asked, a big yawn interrupting his question.

"Every summer," Ginny confirmed."Once school gets out."She wasn't sure how she was going to manage it, but she planned on keeping her promise to the Bergquists.Lewis wouldn't disappear from their lives."We'll find a wayÉsomehow."

"Maybe James can come too andÉ" Lewis began excitedly, then abruptly stopped. His voice cracked and his eyes fluttered shut."I miss everyone."

Ginny continued to stroke his forehead."So do I," she whispered, her chest tight."We'll find them, Lewis.Just like we found you."

He continued to speak with his eyes closed as he tumbled towards sleep."I knew you'd come someday."

A tiny bittersweet smile appeared on Ginny's face.Better late than never, little brother.I'm so sorry it took me this long."Shhh," she crooned quietly and drew her thumb along the smooth skin of his forehead. "Go to sleep."

"I'm not tired," he protested weakly, instantly reminding Ginny of the many nights she would lie quietly next to him, trying to convince the little boy that he actually was tiredÉhe just didn't know it. That hadn't worked then and she didn't bother trying it now. Instead, she schooled herself in patience.And she didn't have to wait long.Within seconds, Lewis' breathing evened out and the sound of soft snores filled the quiet room.

When Ginny was sure he was asleep, she straightened the covers once more and stood. "Goodnight, sweetie," she said quietly.

A small hand shot out from under the blanket and wrapped slender fingers around hers."Don't go." He began to whimper."Don't leave me."

Ginny sucked in a surprised breath and dropped back down on the bed.She resumed her gentle stroking of his forehead with her fingertips."Oh, Lewis," she began, her heart twisting painfully in her chest."You don't have to worry anymore.I'll be here when you wake up."

The skin she was touching drew together as the boy frowned."Promise?" he begged.

Ginny gently kissed his cheek the way their mother did when she tucked her and Alice in during their childhood.Years later, on many nights when one of the babies was fussy, she and Alice took over that duty for the boys.Alice gravitated towards James and she to Lewis.She'd end up telling him a story or discussing something that had happened during the day, and they would laugh quietly and dream together of a new life where there was green grass to play on and where he could have the puppy he'd always longed for. Innately, she understood his giving, sensitive nature, which was much closer to her own than his sometimes stoic, often mischievous twin.Ginny spared a thought for the other half of this pair of boys that meant so much to her, vowing to never stop looking.

She stood to make her way to the door, her legs stiff from being perched on the edge of his bed for so long, but before she could turn around she heard her brother's fuzzy mumble again.

She narrowed her eyes and peered through the darkness, trying to determine if he was talking in his sleep."Yes?"

"Lindsay'sÉ" He smacked his lips together a little and burrowed deeper into the mattress,"She's nice."

This time Ginny's grin stretched her face."She is."A little jolt of happiness bubbled up inside her.He was just a child, but his opinion, she admitted to herself, and James' too, mattered to her.

"Good night." She watched his chest for a few moments, reluctant to leave.Finally, she let out a soft sigh and opened the door to find Lindsay waiting patiently for her.Her friend was holding their coats and two feather-filled pillows the Bergquists had loaned them.

Ginny pulled the door shut and scanned the small, fire-lit living room curiously.

Lindsay leaned against the back of the davenport, emotionally and physically exhausted."They went to bed a while ago.Said to say goodnight and asked us to join them for breakfast."

"MmmÉ" Ginny yawned and stepped closer to Lindsay, invading every inch of her personal space without a second thought. "Can't blame them for that." Too tired to be self-conscious, she nuzzled Lindsay's neck, dropping several small kisses on the warm, silky skin she found there.She hummed happily, reveling in the pure hedonistic joy the action brought her.

Ginny laughed quietly and glanced up to innocently bat her eyelashes at the other woman. "What?"

A single eyebrow rose as Lindsay eased past the initial surprise at Ginny's sudden burst of semi-public affection."You're certainly not as shy as you were when we first met."

"I was never shy, Lindsay.I just didn't know you.AndÉ" A faint blush worked its way up from her neck to her cheeks but Ginny pushed out the words, which were new, delicious, and terrifying at the same time."I didn't love youÉthen." Her voice dropped an octave and Lindsay felt it all the way in her toes."The way I do now."

Lindsay reached up with one hand and cupped a pink cheek."Me too," she whispered, unable to keep what she was sure was a goofy smile from overtaking her face.

"In front of the fire?"Lindsay tilted her head towards the low burning, hickory-scented flames, "or in the barn?"She wanted to be completely alone with Ginny, without the prying eyes of curious children, but left the decision up to the younger woman.

Ginny didn't even hesitate."The barn. It shouldn't be uncomfortably cold.Not with the horses and that big cow and you-"

"Hey," Lindsay protested in faux irritation, already opening the front door."Are you comparing me to the cow?"

"Keeping me warm," Ginny finished, blue eyes dancing.The day, she reflected, had been hard and tiring and wonderful.She wasn't sure she could live through too many more like it.At the same time, however, she prayed for more.Two more to be exact.

Lindsay draped their coats over one arm and wrapped the other around Ginny.Their bag containing their blankets and nightshirts was still in the barn from earlier.

The outside air was frosty but the wind had died down to a gentle breeze.Every breath sent a stream of fog disappearing into the night sky and their feet crunched on the dry grass as they walked.The barn was so close they didn't bother to don their coats, and for a few paces they moved along in companionable silence, their eyes adjusting to the moonlight as they breathed in the fresh air.

Ginny turned her head as she walked, content to stay close enough so that Lindsay's arm could remain comfortably wrapped around her waist."Have I said thank you?"

"You don't have to thank me, Ginny." But the redhead could hear the smile in Lindsay's voice.

"That's not true," Ginny disagreed gently."You came up with a solution that none of us thought of.You kept me from having to steal Lewis away and helped give him a future that I could have never given him on my own." She bit her bottom lip and fought off tears that were still lurking dangerously close to the surface."You saved us." She stopped walking and turned to regard Lindsay's profile.Intelligent brown eyes glinted in the moonlight and white teeth showed faintly when soft lips curled into a genuine smile.Ginny's heart skipped a beat.She's smart and beautiful.I'm so lucky.

Lindsay's brow creased, and she couldn't stop herself from squirming a little."Ginny?"

Lindsay gave her a fond look and shook her head, chuckling."I think you're on about to blow and it's making you crazy."Not that I mind.

The metal door handle felt cold against Lindsay's palm as she gingerly wrapped her fingers around it and twisted.It wasn't much darker inside, but the smell of the animals and sweet grass was much stronger.The door rattled on its hinges when she pushed it closed, using her weight to secure it tightly as she slid a plank into the brackets that served as a lock.

Ginny began to look for their bag."Lindsay, I- Yow!" she squealed when Lindsay hugged her from behind, causing the pair of black horses and the milk-cow to snort and stir in their stalls.

The darker woman rested her chin on Ginny's shoulder and pressed her cheek into the soft shaggy hair above Ginny's ear. "When you look at me like you did outside," she whispered, emotion gripping her heart, "it feels. I mean, I feel likeÉ" She paused, unable to put voice to the emotions churning inside her.In frustration, she shook her head and closed her eyes."Ugh."

"S'okay, Lindsay," Ginny soothed.She let the pillows drop from her hands and covered the arms wrapped around her waist with her own, giving them a comforting squeeze and feeling the scratchy wool of the coats Lindsay was still holding poke through the material dress. "I know just what you mean."And deep in her heart she did.

They stood that way for a long time, each absorbed in their own thoughts and letting the rhythmic breathing of the animals, the light sound of the breeze rustling nearby branches, and the warmth of their bodies pressed tightly together, lull them into a relaxed haze.

Suddenly, Lindsay jerked backwards and Ginny grasped the arms around her waist tightly."Careful." She unconsciously widened her feet for better balance."Don't fall."

On unsteady feet, Lindsay straightened and rolled her eyes at herself."I haven't fallen asleep standing up in forever."

Ginny turned and studied her seriously.Lindsay's face looked pale in the silvery light.She sighed."You're tired and need to rest."Latent resentment flared unexpectedly. "If you had been in a pay regular hospital instead of the Charity Hospital they never would have released you so early.You weren't ready, Lindsay."She left because of me.They probably would have kept her longer.Her stitches and ribs weren't even healed all the way.

"I'm fine, Ginny.I'm just tired from traveling in a way that I'm not used to.I'm not accustomed to keeping any sort of schedule at all."And getting my ass kicked twice took more out of me than I realized.

Ginny's jaw worked.She knew Lindsay was right.But she still didn't like it."You're worn out."

Lindsay cocked her head slightly to the side and reached up to trace dark circles that were visible even now."Yes.And so are you," she reminded her.

Ginny closed her eyes."I know.But I'm so happy too.Something with my family finally went right." The feeling was so foreign she almost didn't know how to process it.In the last handful of hours she'd experienced the full spectrum of emotions and was nearly to the boiling point.Her body and mind were at war, neither one knowing whether to be giddy or pass out from exhaustion. "I don't know what to think or do," she admitted, rubbing her eyes.

"I do." Lindsay leaned over and brushed her lips across Ginny's.Her actions were immediately rewarded by a breathy sigh from her companion."C'mon, it's bedtime."Lindsay padded over to their bag, which was propped up against a bale of hay near the barn wall.Careful to give the big mare in the stall next to it a wide berth, she passed quickly in front of it, barely taking the time to bend and snatch up the bag before she was on her way back.

Lindsay scowled as she crossed the barn and extracted their blankets and nightshirts from the dirty cotton sack."I just like trains better is all," she said a little defensively."They rarely bite.Horses are okayÉ I guessÉ if they're tied to one end of the wagon and I'm at the other."

"What would you say then?" Ginny moved to help her, spreading one of the blankets on a pile of fragrant, loose hay.Then she set to work removing her dress.

"Smartass then," Ginny corrected boldly. Though some of the effect was lost when she blushed despite herself.

Lindsay snorted in surprise but didn't dare disagree. But she couldn't resist a tiny jibe."Tch.Ginny, don't you know that girls don't cuss?"

Their eyes met and they both dissolved into tired laughter. It was already an old joke between them, one that they would happily carry on for two lifetimes.

It wasn't long before both were tucked under their blanket, heads on pillows, snuggled closely together.

Ginny jumped."What?"She sat up and looked around, her eyes darting wildly."What's wrong?"

"I have to use the outhouse and I just got comfortable," Lindsay admitted sheepishly.

Ginny blew out a disgusted breath.Then, unexpectedly, a devilish grin twitched at her lips. "And here I thought that big bad horse gave you a scary look." Her smile grew."But I could use the outhouse too."

Brown eyes turned to slits."Just for that I'm using the last of the Sears & Roebuck Catalog." Lindsay got up as quickly as her ribs would allow and stuffed still-socked feet into her shoes.She began to chuckle wickedly.

"What?"Ginny gasped, mortified.Her fatigue vanished as she delighted in the rare moment of pure play."And leave me with none?"She jumped up and began wrestling on her own shoes, groaning when Lindsay snatched up the blanket, wrapped it around herself, and headed for the barn door.A chill swept over her, causing goosebumps to erupt over her bare legs."Get back here, Brussel Sprout!'

Ginny's giggles mingled with Lindsay's until both sets of laughter faded away into the night.

If Ginny had known what would happen the next morning, this would have been the last time she let her partner out of her sight.

It was just before sunrise when Ginny opened her eyes.The inside of the barn was cast in grayish-blue hues.She blinked a few times to clear her vision.They couldn't have gotten more than four or five hours of sleep and her body protested that fact when she tentatively stretched.She could feel Lindsay's side pressed firmly against her back and she smiled. She'd been right.She wasn't coldÉall except for her toes, which despite being covered with socks felt like ten tiny lumps of ice, attached to two bigger lumps of ice.

Ginny carefully scooted away from Lindsay and rolled over so that she could face the sleeping woman. She propped herself up on one elbow and ran her fingers through sleep-tousled brown hair, enjoying the feeling as coarse strands tickled the sensitive skin.Lindsay, she had learned, usually slept like a rock, not waking up until she, or something else very loud, prodded her.Today, however, Ginny was especially loath to wake her.She needs this rest. She looks pale.But she also figured that it was likely the Bergquists would be up within the next half-hour or so and that someone would be coming into the barn to relieve the cow of her bulging supply of fresh milk.

Just a few more minutes. Then we'll get going, Ginny promised herself.Something, she wasn't exactly sure what, compelled her to touch Lindsay.And Ginny wasn't of a mind to even try and curb that urge.

"Mmm..."Lindsay shifted a little under the blanket and her hand brushed against Ginny's.Feeling the warm body, she let out a small sigh, and the corners of her lips shaped the barest of smiles before going slack again.

Ginny gave her a fond look, feeling a rush of affection for the woman sharing her journey.Her eyes swept over the relaxed face so close to her own, admiring its strong lines and the way light played off the peaceful features.She looks younger when she's asleep. Perhaps it was the now-familiar scent of warm skin that she found more intoxicating than any liquor she'd ever tasted. Or maybe it was the tranquil sound of deep even breaths that lulled her into slumber every night.Or maybe it was just that she felt safe and happy and loved.Whatever the reason, a good portion of the lingering nervousness she felt over their budding physical relationship melted away.

Ginny dragged her fingers lightly down Lindsay's cheek and across a section of collarbone, which was exposed by the ÔV' in the front of the nightshirt, amazed, once again, at how soft and inviting Lindsay's skin was.The word Ôaddictive' came to mind and suddenly she wanted to touch her everywhere.She snuggled closer and dropped her hand down to the hem of Lindsay's nightshirt, which had worked its way up her hips in the night.A tentative smile crawled across Ginny's face and settled there.This was going to be good.

She gently pushed the blanket down to Lindsay's knees, feeling a rush of cool morning air sweep across her skin.She touched a bare hipbone, admiring its lean shape.Several bands of muscles crisscrossed Lindsay's stomach, though in this position a soft layer of flesh hid them.She traced the pink scar on Lindsay's abdomen, and her eyebrows contracted.But she forced her thoughts past that and onto happier things.Ginny recalled what a shock it had been to learn that Lindsay didn't own any underclothes.Her smile shifted into a faint smirk and she admitted to herself, that even then, she'd been more intrigued than anything else.And now she knew why.

Her hand moved lower still, and her entire body shifted along with it until she was lying with her head pillowed on Lindsay's shoulder, stroking the silky skin of a slender, naked thigh with idle pleasure.I could get used to this. Oh, yeah.I really could.

Lindsay groaned in her sleep, clearly enjoying the delicate, phantom caresses.Instinctively, she spread her legs a little, inviting further exploration.

The primal sound flashed through Ginny and her innocent affection gave way to arousal.Emboldened by the sound and her own desires, she allowed her fingers to dance across an inner thigh and dangerously close to the apex of Lindsay's legs.The heat seared her fingertips and caused her lower belly to twist in anticipation, though she wasn't quite sure what she was waiting for.

For a split second Ginny's hand froze, but by the next heartbeat it was moving again, continuing its gentle, sensual tracing."Touching you."

"Okay."Ginny laughed, relieved there was no awkwardness between them, even after being caught with her hand someplace a little more intimate than a cookie jar.Lindsay cupped her chin, tilting her head upward and capturing her mouth in an enthusiastic kiss.

They paused and pulled far enough away to look at each other.Ginny's pupils, dark and glassy, were dilated with desire. She licked suddenly dry lips when she looked into Lindsay's half-lidded eyes.Lindsay grabbed hold of Ginny's bottom and carefully settled her gently atop her.The motion caused Ginny's hand to slide up to where Lindsay was all moisture and heat, trapping it there.Two sets of eyes widened and both women gasped, then groaned at the unexpected, exquisite feeling.

Ginny's eyes darkened further and she hesitantly allowed her fingers to rake through soft, damp curls."Does that feel good?" she whispered, a little taken aback by her own body's devastating response to what she was doing.There was a vague aching in her breasts and a not so vague ache between her legs.

Lindsay could hardly speak.Of their own accord, her hips arched upwards, trying to force more contact.Her heart was threatening to pound out of her chest."Very," she finally croaked.

Ginny grinned and dropped her lips to Lindsay's neck where she began to nibble, intent on pulling a few more moans out of her partner before she was through.

Lindsay couldn't believe her ears.She nearly burst into tears.Ginny's irritated groan mixed with hers.

At the moment Lindsay wasn't inclined to mind her manners, and she whimpered when Ginny gave her one last, regretful kiss and rolled off of her to begin rooting for their clothes."If I had a gunÉ" she murmured darkly.

Lindsay scowled and pinched Ginny hard on the bottom, earning an indignant squawk.

Mrs. Bergquist tried the door again, giving it a slightly annoyed shake.Why would they lock the barn door?"Virginia?Lindsay?"

When did the sun come up?Ginny blinked at the golden light pouring through the dirty windows above the stalls."We'll be out in a minute," she called, noting that her hands were trembling.She crawled back over to a dejected-looking Lindsay, who had just sat up.Their eyes met and held."I want more time with you," Ginny told her earnestly.

Lindsay sighed and pulled Ginny into a heartfelt hug."I want that, too."She buried her nose in soft red hair and softly murmured,"I love you."It still felt a little new and odd to say, but she found it falling from her lips so naturally she didn't stop to think about it.

"I love you, too." Ginny closed her eyes and held on to Lindsay as tightly as she dared.My life is meant to be with you, her mind whispered, though her heart had reconciled itself to that happy fact quite a while ago."We'll get more timeÉlike this.We just have to be patient."

Lindsay managed to smile through her frustration."You know," she began wryly, "I'm really beginning to hate that word."The body in her arms shook with silent laughter.

Ginny turned back and pressed her forehead to Lindsay. Unable to stop herself, she kissed her again, uttering quietly against moist, slightly parted lips, "Me too."

The trio was walking down the road towards town.Jon and Lana had offered them a ride but Ginny, hoping to avoid a teary scene at the train station, had suggested they walk off their breakfast instead.The Bergquists had been livid over the Wards' nonexistent attempts to reunite Lewis with Ginny before adopting him out.And the look on Lana's face after she kissed Lewis goodbye and told him she'd see him again this summer told Ginny that Jeremiah and Isabelle had angered the wrong Southern woman.There would be hell to pay.Ginny's mouth twitched in a malicious grin just thinking about it.Couldn't happen to a more rotten couple of swindlers.

It was beginning to cloud over, and the Farmer's Almanac predicted rain for the rest of the week, but they were certain they could make it into town well before it began to fall.It was colder than the day before.Their coats were buttoned to the top, and frost covered the dry grass.They had walked nearly the first mile in silence, and it was Ginny who tried to break them out of their funk.

"I'm as full as a tick. One more bite and I'd have exploded right on the spot." Lindsay made an explosion sound just to see Lewis smile.Casually, she reached down to the waist of her pants, wondering if she could undo the top button without anyone noticing.

Ginny, who was thinking the very same thing about her trousers, and who was holding one of Lewis' hands as they walked, turned to her brother."Do you eat that well everyday?" They'd enjoyed hotcakes and maple syrup, along with eggs, thick slices of ham, and hot coffee.It had truly been a feast.

"No shit," Lindsay mumbled, receiving an elbow jab to her arm from Ginny. "Ouch!"

Lindsay frowned."What do you meanÉmiss it?" She gestured sideways to the boy's sister."Can't she cook?"

Lewis covered his mouth with one hand and snorted wildly, sounding amazingly like a piglet when he did.

"Thanks a lot," Ginny muttered good-naturedly to her brother, her eyes narrowing with fake menace.

"But I sold three doorstoppers, I mean biscuits, to the neighbors," the boy sassed back.

"LindsayÉ" Ginny's voice was filled with warning.She smiled inwardly when the darker woman's mouth snapped shut with an audible click.

Lindsay resettled their traveling bag on her shoulder, her face a picture of confusion."But you lived with your parents and had a mother." She gestured wildly with one hand.This was serious.There were no delis around here!"You're, well, supposed to know how to cook," she explained somewhat petulantly."Everyone knows that!"

"Everyone knows that I'm supposed to be able to cook?" Ginny clarified in a slow, incredulous voice.

Lewis nodded and kicked a rock out of his path."She's right, Ginny.Alice and Mama could cook.You're the only one who can't."

"Hmph."Ginny let go of Lewis' hand so she could cross her arms over her chest."It's not like I didn't try.I can cookÉ" she winced and her voice trailed off."It's just not fit to eat."

"Besides," Ginny continued, giving Lindsay a pointed look, "you've been on your own for years; you should be able to cook better than all of us."

Lewis glanced back and forth between Ginny and Lindsay as they bantered, thrilled they were including him in their conversation.And James, he was certain, would just love Lindsay.

"I can roastÉ meat," Lindsay paused and smiled wickedly, "over an open flame."

Ginny visibly shivered, deliberately refusing to ask what sort of meat Lindsay was referring to."Good," she praised sarcastically."Then you're the new cook."

Lindsay took one of Lewis' hands in her own.With a smile so wide Ginny thought his face might split in two, he glanced up at Lindsay. "Lewis," Lindsay said, "is it okay if I come back this summer to Talking Rock with you?"

"I figure by then," Lindsay let a twinkle enter her eyes, "I'll be near starved to death and need to put on some weight."

"Sure!" Lewis exclaimed, starting to jump up and down."You can come.Ginny can stay with James and Jane, and we can bring 'em back some food to keep 'em all from dying."

Ginny rolled her eyes and increased her pace, leaving a laughing Lindsay and a confused Lewis behind her.The growing friendship between her brother and Lindsay warmed her heart and with that, she realized her goals were changing.Was it possible to knit together the shattered pieces of all their lives into something different but even stronger than they'd known before?She wasn't sure.But with a brave heart and a happy grin, Ginny admitted to herself that she was ready to find out.

"Ugh. Christ."Albert lay in the fetal position on the ground in the alleyway behind the local saloon. His head was pounding and he still felt like he was going to puke, though he'd already done that.Several times.A half a bottle of rotgut whiskey and an empty stomach turned out to be a wicked combination.

"Shut the hell up, Rat Face," Bo grumbled.He kicked weakly at the other man from his position flat on top of a pile of garbage."I'm trying to sleep."He pushed his Derby down over his eyes."Stupid light."

Albert struggled to make sense of what Bo was saying.Light?There couldn't be light.It was nighttime.Bloodshot eyes popped wide open."DAMN!"He shot to his feet, and then fell over a bucket of rancid grease that had been carelessly discarded by a nearby restaurant.His knee plowed into the bucket, sinking deeply into the vile, soft substance."ArghhhÉ"

The Last Train Home by Blayne Cooper (Advocate)

The Last Train Home
by
Blayne Cooper (Advocate)