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curlysgirl0202 · 6 months

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SHORT STORY WIP:

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JOHNNY RINGO AND DOC HOLLIDAY: THE SONG OF RIVALS

Johnny Ringo and Doc Holliday make a bet to see who can impress the reader and who will win her heart.

CHAPTER ONE:

The Challenge

The evening summer breeze washes through the streets of Tombstone and bathes the town in a warm embrace. Citizens of the community take their seats at the Bird Cage theater, hoping to catch a glimpse of you-you recently joined a troop and people want to hear you sing because the rumor is that your voice sounds angelic and absolutely beautiful.

Curly Bill, Johnny Ringo and several other cowboys take their seats in the front row and engage in small talk while waiting for the show to begin. Other cowboys down whiskey directly from their bottles, suck on imported cigars and hoot and hollar in their drunkeness.

A first months prior, Curly Bill, Johnny Ringo and the entire Red Sash gang also known as the Clanton Gang came into Tombstone where they could spend their ill gotten gains any way they pleased. These men refused to follow rules or laws of any kind and knocked over anyone who tried to put limits on them. Curly Bill, known as the King of the Cowboys strutted through town, tipping his hat to the townspeople who exhibited fear or repulsion when anywhere near the gang of rustlers. When they first arrived, they quickly owned the community near Allen and Fremont street. They dominated the area with their overwhelming presence. Curly and the others gambled, drank, attended shows at the theater, frequented the whore houses and rode up and down the street, their pistols blazing. Curly enjoyed taunting the local law and baited and even dared them to take his firearms. he would stand with his chest out, arms crossed, flashing his signature smile waiting for them to turn and leave. Then he would flick his tongue, chuckle and go on his way.

When the Earps arrived in Tombstone, the cowboy gang immediately set out to show the retired lawmen they would not be intimidated and they would not comply with their laws or regulations. However, things grew so out of control that Wyatt and his brothers knew they would have to resort to the one occupation they thrived at: Law enforcement agents.

This evening seemed like any other; when the sun went down in Tombstone, the party elevated to a louder level and men dominated the night, creating an environment for violence. The Earps tightend their grip on the Cowboy crew, but that didn't stop Ringo, Curly and the others from enjoying everything the boomtown had to offer.

Now, the theater lights dimmed and the show began.

The curtain finally rises and on the stage, stands a woman so beautiful, the Cowboys grow immediately quiet, their mouths agape.

You move closer to the edge of the stage, a pink gown with thin straps that wrap your shoulders decorates your body. Twinkling and glistening beads on your dress shimmer in the light, giving you an angelic appearance. Your beautiful eyes gaze upon the theater and you take a breath before you begin your song. The scene before you looked familiar; men sporting their pistols, howling at the stage and blowing smoke from their expensive cigars.

"I think I see an angel, boys!" Curly Bill guffaws and his fellow Cowboys clink their whiskey bottles together and begin howling and whistling.

"Hi, beautiful!" Billy Clanton shouts, blowing a few shots into the ceiling. Startled, you look at the floor and then back at the audience. A few other cowboys pull their guns and fire shots in the air, nudging each other and laughing. Ringo looks over at the boys with a look of contempt.

"That's enough, boys!" Curly shouts.

The only cowboy completely enraptured is Johnny Ringo, who can't take his eyes off of you.

You begin your song, "Si mi Chimano", from La Boheme. Your voice floods the theater like a warm bath and everyone in the theater, including the Cowboys, grow increasingly silent, staring in awe of you. The vibrato in your voice does not seem forced like some other singers; your voice flows like like a soft honey. A slow and deep crecendo that reaches its height and then decrecendos into such softness, it resembles a lullaby.

All of that lovliness accompanied with your soft, flowing hair and wonderful curves are everything a man could want.

While delivering your piece, Ringo believes he can see a halo forming around your head. He cannot take his eyes off of you and when the two of you share a glance, Ringo savors your beauty and holds your face in his mind so he can indulge in fantasies about you later. Your eyes grow wide as you reach the conclusion of your act.

In the balcony, Doc Holliday stares down at you, licking his lips in between whiskey shots. Kate notices Doc and that he seems in a trance while watching you. Her furious heart swells and as calmly as she can, pulls Doc's face towards hers so she can offer him a kiss.

"Kate. I'm watching. Please save that though for a more appropriate moment."

Kate grows angry with envy and waits for what seems to be several moments for you to conclude your song. After belting out the next few notes, you take a bow and all the Cowboys stand to applaud you, whistling and howling and demanding another song from such a lovely lady.

Doc sits and discreetly tries to make eye contact with you, but your glance is towards the hooting Cowboys who occupy the best seats.

"We want more!" Curly Bill shouts. He looks over at Ringo, who seems completely lost in you and that causes the old rustler to chuckle.

"I figure you liked it, Juanito?" Curly asks, his voice low. Curly laughs when he sees Ringo hasn't noticed anything but you.

Doc whistles, hoping you'll notice him. Kate attempts to get Doc's attention, but he's still staring at you and your wonderful curves. He wants to stand where you are standing so he could feel the warmth and delicate beauty that rushes from your soul. Doc had been to many shows in cow towns and big cities, but never heard a voice like yours. He finishes off his shot and lights up a cigarette. He blows the smoke out methodically and glances down at Johnny Ringo, who seems to share the doctor's interest in you.

"Wishful thinking, you useless pistoleer," Doc mumbles under his breath.

Kate flashes Doc a mean look and starts gathering her jacket and purse.

"Are you coming, Doc?" She demands.

"Now, Kate. Didn't you enjoy that masterful act? I'm mulling over that song in my mind. She sounded lovely!"

Kate rolls ber eyes and lets out a sigh before excusing herself.

"You have no idea how many times I regretted not letting that damn Silver City judge hang you! If I hadn't lied about your alibi, I wouldn't have to deal with you!"

"Then how could you afford to come to shows like this?" Doc inquires, winking at a frustrated Kate.

A woman can cure a man's loneliness and keep them out of too much trouble. Curing a lonely heart came with a price when it came to certain women and Doc knew that all too well. But Doc, like most men in the west, hates to sleep alone.

Doc smiles while watching Kate leave by herself. She'll flirt with a few newcomers or worse - compliment Johnny Ringo in front of Doc which usually pisses off the doctor of death.

At this moment, Doc doesn't seem to care. He wishes to God tuberculosis didn't have a hold of him; he made a bet with himself that he would get shot before the virus took him over. He even joked about that with Ringo, when the two had a drink together. Doc invited the gunfighter to have a few shots while Doc sat, playing solitaire. Although they clearly hated each other, drinking together was a good way to learn the others weaknesses and both men seized that opportunity.

Patrons begin gathering their things and heading out to the street. The Cowboys stood up and began filtering out, stumbling from drunkenness and slapping each other in the back. Ringo remains seated even after Curly Bill has stood up. Curly looks down at Ringo, who stares at the stage as if hoping you would magically appear or that somehow, he would be able to see your face.

"You comin', Juanito?" Curly asks, flashing his big white teeth.

Ringo ignores Bill for a moment and then glances up at the older rustler. Ringo nods and slowly stands. With his head down, he follows Curly out.

"Well! Let's continue this party!" Curly guffaws. His fellow red sash Cowboys shout and whistle while marching through the streets of Tombstone.

The performers of the theater troupe often celebrate after a show by having dinner in one of the restaurants or enjoying a drink at one of the many saloons and casinos. This evening should be no different and Johnny remembers meeting a few actresses following a performance. He followed Curly to the Golden Nugget, one of the higher end places complete with mahogany wood and gold plated frames that decorated the ends of the bar. While walking in, they notice a few people from the theater company and the Cowboys applaud the actors and offer to buy them drinks. Ringo continues staring at the door, hoping at any moment, you'll waltz in. He also envisions your warm smile and delicate curves and you'll head straight to where he's standing. But while each moment passes and there's no sign of you, the cowboy begins to grow frustrated.

Doc wanders to the Oriental, knowing Wyatt will be at his usual spot, dealing faro. The former dentist moves slowly through the place, tipping his hat to patrons and placing money on the bar. Milt, the bar dog, pours Doc's glass to the brim. Doc downs it and places his glass on the bar and motions for a refill. He came to the bar that evening for one reason; in the hopes that you will emerge from the dark of the street and stand in the doorway, looking like an angel out of place. He discreetly glances at the door and just like Ringo, he can't shake the image of your face from his mind.

"Doc," Wyatt says, not looking up from the faro table.

"Why, hello, Wyatt. What a performance by the humble little theatre group. So sorry you missed it."

"You know I've staked everything in this place, Doc," Wyatt mumbles, waiting for the players to place their bets.

"I know. I can't imagine staking a claim anywhere at this point, my friend." Doc smiles and slowly walks to the table. He pulls a handkerchief from his pocket and coughs profusely into it. Wyatt looks up to see his friend with blood shot eyes that seem to be tearing up from so much coughing. Wyatt wouldn't be surprised if Doc passed out right there. After a few moments of his coughing fit Doc regains his composure and watches Wyatt.

"You boys see that woman sing?" A drunken patron asks, stumbling towards the faro table.

"Why, Shotgun Martin," Doc begins, lighting a cigarette. "Haven't seen you around."

"I've been here same as you, Holliday," Martin answers.

"Sorry, Shotgun," Wyatt says in a low voice. "You lose. Want to bet again?"

Shotgun Martin continues playing until he has just enough dough left for a room, whore and a few more drinks.

"Hell! This game ain't no good!" Doc and Wyatt share a chuckle while they watch Martin stroll through the crowded casino.

Ike and Billy Clanton walked in, Ike was so drunk, he could hardly walk. They both moved to the faro table and tried their luck.

"Johnny couldn't stop staring at her. Like he was in a trance!" Ike announces in a drunken voice.

"Maybe she put a hex on him," Billy answers, putting chips on the table.

"Winner to the Ace," Wyatt declares.

"Hey, ain't that mighty fine," Ike shoots.

"Three hundred," Wyatt replies, handing Billy his cash. Billy shoves the case in his pocket without counting it and Wyatt thought he could cheat the old cowboy and poor Billy would probably never figure it out.

"I ain't never seen Ringo gettin' his dander up over some lady. Not this much, anyhow!" Ike bellows. "He was like love sick calf!" Ike stumbles while downing his shot.

"Who are you referring to?" Wyatt inquires. "Can'timagine Ringo showing feelings at all," Wyatt continues, not looking at the cowboys.

"You didn't go to the Bird Cage earlier?" Billy answers. "New troupe in town. And they was real good. Real pretty too!" Billy takes a cigar from his shirt pocket and lights it, letting the smoke funnel out of his grinning mouth.

Wyatt shakes his head, still occupied with this faro.

Doc freezes and knows now when he looked down at Ringo, that the pistoleer was entranced by you. Doc fumes inside, but contains his emotions, taking long drags on his cigarette.

"Well, we saw an angel singing," Ike responds, folding his dirty hands together.

Wyatt still didn't acknowledge either brother. Doc swallowed and wondered which casino Ringo went to and if the cowboy was hoping for an encounter with you. Doc glances at the two cowboys with disgust. What a shame that they got to be in the same place as you. Doc would want to shield you from the down and dirty Cowboys. However, a beautiful woman in Tombstone was a rare gem and he knew it wouldn't be long before you were noticed by every man and they would compete to see who could court you.

Wyatt looks up at Doc, who is still trying to conceal his hatred for Ringo. The tension between the two permeates the town and when people see Ringo and Doc in the same place, many end up leaving, not wanting to be witness when the two dueled it out.

"You were there, right Doc?"

Holliday nods his head. "And I must confess that Ike here is right. She is an absolute beauty with a voice I never heard before." The doctor pauses. "I calculate Johnny Ringo is smitten with her."

"Yeah," Ike bellows. "He couldn't take his eyes off her. Curly couldn't neither, but Johnny, he looked like he saw Heaven!" Ike laughs, slaps his brother on the back before heading to the batwings.

"What the hell were they talking about?" Wyatt asks, shuffling the cards while taking a short break. He doesn't look up at Doc, who smiles at his friend.

"At the Bird Cage earlier." Doc tried to maintain his breathing so he wouldn't cough himself to death. He loosens his tie and starts to catch his breath. His advanced stage of tuberculosis made most of his life miserable and he decided he'd rather be shot than die of this debilitating illness. He wipes his face with a handkerchief and continues talking.

"She's beautiful with a peach of a voice."

Wyatt continues shuffling his cards. He puts the cards aside and lights up a cigar. "Oh? We've seen lots of women in shows, Doc." Wyatt shrugs.

"I suppose Johnny Ringo is smitten. But who wouldn't be?"

"That pretty?" Wyatt inquires, puffing in his cigar.

Doc nods and takes his empty glass to the bar and the other barkeep, One Eye Pete poured more whiskey for the sick doctor. Doc drains his glass and your face enters his mind and he can feel the room begin to spin. He looks around, wondering if you've entered the bar and his heart sinks when he doesn't see you. Doc motions for One Eye Pete to refill his glass once more, but this time, be sips it slowly, almost methodically, thinking about Johnny Ringo and how entranced he seemed when looking at you. Even his fellow Cowboys apparently noticed.

Ringo didn't show much emotion unless in the presence of women. He stood at the bar with Curly Bill, Barnes and the McClaury's. Ringo remains silent, but it doesn't throw the cowboys off because he is usually quiet. Sometimes when drunk, he'll start spewing out sonnets by old Willy Shakespeare or quote from Macbeth or another tragic story.

Curly Bill knows not to push Ringo into saying anything. He already knew how Johnny can be when he's got something on his mind. And Curly Bill knew what was on Ringo's mind because Curly couldn't shake the vision of your face either.

The Cowboys continue their party until they have their fill of this place and decide to head to the Oriental to bait the Earps. It wasn't so much that they wanted to cause any trouble, they just enjoyed strolling through town, proudly wearing their holstered six shooters.

When Curly enters, Ringo follows close behind, his face to the ground. He looks up and sees the pale, death grin of his nemesis, Doc Holliday. Doc's bloodshot eyes look the pistoleer up and down. Doc's mouth twists into a sick countenance and he breaths heavily, hoping to suppress his cough. But his disease overtakes him and he begins to gag in a ferocious manner, blood showing on the handkerchief. Doc zeros in on Ringo and stands tall and proud, although he looks like he would pass out at any moment.

"Well, what do we owe the pleasure, Johnny Ringo?" Doc murmurs, sipping his whiskey.

Ringo says nothing while he moves closer to Doc.

"Your fellow rustlers told us you're quite smitten with that lovely performer."

Ringo flashes a look at Doc, who's smiling, flashing his white teeth at Ringo, almost tempting him into a fight.

"Oh that little angel we saw before?" Curly bellows. "I reckon any man would be!"

"Were you hoping for a rendezvous, Mr. Ringo?" Doc asks, staring into his half shot glass of rot gut.

"Were you?" Ringo inquires, taking advantage of the couple of inches in height he has over Doc.

Doc smiles. "I hate to be the bearer of bad news, Ringo, but I don't think YN is interested in encounters with deadly pistoleers or stage coach robbers." Doc coughs and then catches his breath.

Ringo's eyes flood with the rage that has become familiar and enjoyable to Holliday, who would never pass up an opportunity to anger the gentleman gunfighter. Ringo's expressive look validates Doc as he knows how to push Ringo. Doc says your name slowly in a voice just above a whisper and with his powerful perception, sees Ringo's expression weaken. Just the mention of your name weakens Johnny and it's the proof Doc needs to overpower Ringo.

Doc is not going to let Ringo attempt to court you and with the Earps on his side, it won't be an issue. He can easily and effortlessly inform you of the awful deeds Ringo has been involved with. Doc will be more than eager to tell you about how Ringo rode with Bloody Bill Anderson and Charlie Quantrill and marched into Lars, Kansas to kill as many Jayhawks as they could. Not to mention Ringo's dealings with rustling with the Clanton's.

"Stay away from her, Johnny," Doc says, staring directly into Ringo's.

"It's not up to you, Holliday"

At this moment, Curly Bill and Wyatt stand in between the two gunfighters.

"Not now, Ringo" Wyatt says in a cold voice.

Damn Wyatt and his self righteousness! Of course he'll defend Holliday.

Curly Bill flashes Doc and Wyatt a mean look. He shakes his head and leads Ringo out to continue their party elsewhere.

"Johnny Ringo!" Doc begins. "May the best man win!" Doc down his whiskey and places his glass on the bar for more.

"He will!" Curly howls back.

"That damn Doc Holliday!" Ringo states. "That would be just like him!"

Your face falls into Johnny's mind and he sighs and then takes his hat off, holding it in his hands while Curly watches with pity in his heart.

"Well, Johnny. We don't even know YN and he don't either. We can check the show schedule and see when she's singing again. And Billy Breckenridge knows where she's staying, I'll bet. And if anyone can introduce us, he'd be the one!" Curly shows his cherublic smile and pats Ringo on the back.

"But not now, cowboy. Let's go have some fun at the Dead End saloon. They got ladies there too!"

"They ain't ladies." Ringo mumbles.

"Hell, they sure ain't. But that don't matter to us cowboys. Even the ugly ones look mighty fine!" Curly Bill bellows.

"You go on ahead, Curly. I'm going back to camp." Ringo looks down and sighs. It was one thing to simply hate Doc, but now he hates Doc for another reason; he cannot bear the thought of that lunger touching you with his diseased hands. He can feel rage swell in his heart and for the first time, he knew for certain that he really hated Doc Holliday more than ever hated anyone. Doc seemed to be the only person not afraid of Ringo; Doc didn't seem to fear anyone and that only added to Ringo's hate for him. Doc was the only person Ringo ever dreaded.

Curly Bill nods and turns to head to the Dead End. "You sure, Ringo? The Dead End has a new little bartender helping out and boy is she a cute little thing."

"I've seen her and she's alright, Curly." Ringo bleats. "But then again, you never seemed picky about women," Ringo finishes. Curly Bill laughs softly, feeling a little embaressed. A man like Curly could not afford to be picky when it came to women.

"Well, women sure are beautiful!" Curly bellows before moving closer to the entrance. "Iffin you change your mind, Juanito, here's where I'll be!"

He watches Ringo walk to the livery to retrieve his gelding.

CHAPTER TWO:

Introductions

Johnny rides to camp and heads into his makeshift tent, takes his pants, shirt and boots off and uses his jacket for a pillow. His mind wanders back to the Bird Cage and he can clearly see your beautiful face in his mind. In his fantasy, he sits near the stage and waits for you to begin signing. Your voice overwhelms him, even in his memories and he wants to preserve this moment. In his mind, you sing to nobody but him and when you conclude your piece, you walk off the stage and fall into his arms. Ringo falls into a deep and peaceful sleep, with nothing but you on his mind.

Holliday leaves the Oriental and returns to the hotel. He walks into the room and there's no sign of Kate anywhere. He sighs, gets undressed and takes a few swings from his whiskey flask before settling into a dream. A dream where he wasn't a slave to his tuberculosis. Doc knew his future would end one of two ways, be would either be shot to death or he would cough himself into the grave. Either way he looks at it, his future appears a dark and endless abyss of suffering regardless of where he lives. He knew the younger Johnny Ringo did have some significant advantages; he wasn't dying of a debilitating virus, he wasn't burdened with a woman looking for a meal ticket and he was somewhat handsome. Doc knew that Kate baited Ringo several times, offering up her comfort to him. And Ringo was not unaffected by her advances. Kate was not beautiful, but handsome enough and like Curly Bill had said many times, the ugly ones are pretty in wild country like this where men went months without the company of women. Doc wonders if Kate isn't offering her soft bosom for Johnny. Not that Doc was necessarily jealous, it was more a matter of pride for him; losing Kate had its advantages, but to travel alone was much worse. Doc recalls the wager he made with Johnny Ringo: "May the best man win..." Doc feels foolish for making such a bet as there's a possibility Ringo can charm you. However, Doc was more cultured and a bit more feared than Ringo. He exhibited charm like Ringo, had a strong educational background and could read Latin better than Ringo could read English.

But Ringo isn't dying...

At least not physically. Death wrapped itself around Ringo and almost suffocated the gunfighter. Ringo, like Curly Bill suffered from a loneliness that ate through a man's soul. But Curly Bill didn't seem to let it get him down. He could laugh to hide his fear and pain while Ringo internalized it. Curly knew no decent woman was going to fall in love with him. At least that was his own perception based on what he'd been told by women.

Ma Hawkins, mother of George and Frank Hawkins, who rode with Curly in the past, told Curly, "Just look at you! You've got nothing but the clothes on your back and you probably stole them! You'll never have anything!"

Curly Bill held onto those words because he felt they were true. He did steal most of what he had and although Ma Hawkins offered Curly a chance to turn her property into a working ranch, Curly wouldn't be able to stand the constant barrage of admonishments he would receive from old ma and there were no other women there to make it worth it. So Curly stuck to the saloons and the women that offered their services for a price. And Ringo did also, but Ringo wanted to feel like he was in a loving relationship.

Now, Ringo plays Holiday's words over and over..."May the best man win.."

The best man?

Ringo thinks. Ringo, like Doc knew his nemesis had considerable advantages. However, Johnny would never pass up a challenge and he would rather remember himself fighting for your heart than to simply let Doc Holliday have you. Ringo begins thinking of everything he would be willing to walk away from just to be with you. His heart sinks when he remembers who he is; a stage coach robber, killer, outlaw and cattle rustler. And Doc was a much more educated man with ties to local law enforcement. With Wyatt Earp as his closest friend, Doc didn't need to worry about the law closing in on him the way Ringo would. Doc and Wyatt could run Ringo out of town if they tried hard enough. Although Wyatt would more than likely stay out of it since he couldn't control Doc anyway.

When Ringo wakes up, he emerges from his tent. His back feels sore from sleeping on the hard ground. He stretches as best as he can since he's not the most limber man. He didn't have enough money to stay in town and he felt ashamed that he couldn't afford a place to sleep. He can hear his fellow Cowboys sleeping off their barrel fever. Some were snoring or muttering in their sleep. He knew that he could take whatever cash he did have and double or even triple it playing poker.

Ringo digs through the chuck and looks for something to eat. He finds some jerky, bacon and some biscuits. Pony Diel usually cooked their grub and always made plenty of biscuits for everyone. But sometimes, all he had were beans and bacon. Johnny munches his meager breakfast.

Meanwhile, in town, Curly Bill is drinking at the Dead End when Breckenridge walks through the batwings.

"Howdy, Billy!" Curly shouts. "What are you drinking?"

"I'll take a beer," the deputy answers, taking a seat next to Curly.

"You're just the man I've been wanting to talk to," Curly begins, downing his rot gut. "Do you know anything about that lovely lady who sang in the Bird Cage?"

Breckenridge smiles and looks at the floor.

"You're not the first man to ask. Behan wanted to know if she was married."

"Is she?"

Billy Breckenridge shakes his head and sips his beer. "No. She doesn't seem to have a man anywhere. She tends to be more around during the day. I think she's a little afraid of our town." Billy shrugs and continues nursing his beer. "It wouldn't matter to Behan if she was," Billy continues.

Curly Bill shakes his head and mumbles under his breath.

"Well, he's a damn ten cent man," Curly says. "He don't deserve a lady like that!"

"I reckon," Billy answers without looking away from his beer.

"So, where does she like to go and do in our lively town?" Curly sits up and folds his arms.

Breckenridge shrugs. "I've seen her at the restaurant and at the hotel restaurant. I know she's staying at the hotel. She visits the museum and library and has singing rehearsals during the week."

Curly brushes his mustache with his hand and leans back, his arms still folded. "Well, I'd like to see her practice sometime." Curly flashes his teeth and smiles at the deputy. It wouldn't matter if anyone told Curly Bill he couldn't watch her rehearse; Curly did what he wanted and the young deputy knows that.

"When does she practice?"

"Today, at some time I know that." Billy finishes his beer and decides to order another.

When the bar dog brings the drinks, Curly tells Billy, "well, I think me and a few of my boys will get to watch that lovely woman sing. Maybe even get a chance to talk to her. What do you say, deputy?"

Billy grins. "Sure. I'll find out. I think I know where she is." Billy looks at his watch. "The hotel will be serving lunch in about an hour. Let's go see if they're rehearsing. Sometimes they do before lunch."

When they exit the Dead End, Curly looks around for Ringo. If Ringo finds out that you're practicing, he will absolutely want to watch. Perhaps from afar though as he doesn't want to draw anymore attention to himself. It's bad enough that Doc Holliday is trying to make a fool out of Ringo, but to have the entire town know his feelings would cause him great unrest.

While Billy and Curly walk towards the theater, they see Ringo, trotting on his horse towards the livery. He dismounts, tips the stable kid and his he walks on, with the stride that is unmistakable.

"Juanito!" Curly bellows.

Johnny looks at Curly and nods, moving closer.

"Well, son, I got some nice news for you. YN is probably rehearsing at the theater. Let's go watch, Johnny."

Ringo stops walking. He takes his hat off and glances at Breckenridge. Ringo fears Curly may have spilled the beans about Ringo's feelings or the bet Doc made with him.

"Aw son, don't fret!" Curly says to Ringo.

"They're about halfway through," Breckenridge claims.

The Cowboys walk into the theater and there's a group of dancers finishing off their practice. After one final leap, the group fluttered off the stage.

The piano player and some of the other orchestra members turned the pages on their music book and blew some air through their wind instruments. Some took handkerchiefs out of their pockets and wiped their sweaty faces.

"Well, let's have a seat, boys!" Curly Bill bellows and he and Ringo ease themselves into their seats. Some of the performers dash off the stage after seeing the outlaws. Some of the dancers wave and blow kisses to the cowboys, which causes them to start hooting and howling. "Where are you gonna be later?" Stillwell bellows, taking a swig of whiskey out a half empty flask.

"I think I'm love!" Johnny Barnes shouts as another dancer exits the stage, flipping her hair at Barnes.

The stage grew darker and the orchestra began playing an opera piece. You emerge and Ringo looks up, his jaw on the floor. He hopes his fascination with you won't appear on his poker face, but he can feel his face grow flushed and red; he suddenly felt awkward, similarly to when he saw young ladies looking over at him when he attended church with his family. That familiar feeling, the tingling and throbbing in his body made him move a bit in his chair, although he did his best to hide his feelings. Ringo sighs and looks at the floor, your voice flooding his ears. Ringo looks around and sees Doc Holliday, watching the rehearsal from a balcony seat, Doc blows a funnel of smoke out of his mouth and lifts his glass to Ringo. Ringo becomes enraged and wants nothing more than to destroy the sick doctor and make love to you on his corpse. The rage felt that intense. Ringo continues watching you, not caring about anything. For in those few moments, he savors your rich and delicate beauty. He wants to hold the image of your face and body in his mind. He watches you and he cannot take his eyes off of you. He leans forward, hoping you notice him, but your eyes look out and do not lock with anyone. You continue your song, different from the last time you performed, but your voice settles on the theater like a warm embrace. Ringo glances back at Holiday, who seems to know exactly when Ringo's gaze is upon him. Doc looks at Ringo and smiles, his death grin visible even in the din lighting. Doc takes one last drag of his cigarette, downs his whiskey and then winks at Johnny, who turns his eyes back on you. You conclude your piece and quickly exit the stage.

Doc decides to wait for you outside the theater; he knows you'll be joining the others for lunch at the hotel restaurant. When Doc sees you, he slowly walks towards you, holding a freshly lit cigarette. When you eyes meet his, he tips his hat and slowly walks towards you.

"Well, you are the songbird making that beautiful noise? I must say you sound wonderful."

You put your head down and smile. "Well, thank you. I am glad you enjoy the show."

"Oh but I enjoy so much more, my dear," Doc continues, tipping his hat. "I believe our little town has not heard a voice like yours. For you to come to our small and humble community is a delight for us." He continues smiling, feeling confident that he will win out over Ringo.

"Thank you," you answer softly.

Doc takes a drag of his cigarette, his eyes moving over you, undressing you in his mind. He couldn't resist thinking about the delights under that dress. And the garden of wonder between your legs.

"You must let me at least buy you a drink," Holliday suggests.

At that moment, Ringo and Curly Bill, along with a few other cowboys see you. Ringo notices your head is looking down and you seem a bit uncomfortable. You begin playing with your hair and then look around. When your eyes meet Ringo's, he tips his hat and straightens up a bit. He's at least two inches taller than the lung infected dentist and will take full advantage of that fact. Ringo doesn't want to approach you with Doc right there. Ringo stands with his signature posture and unreadable poker face, watching you and waiting for your response. He begins to sweat, hoping you won't let Doc escort you through town. He can't bear the thought of you being out of his reach. And worse, to lose you to his worst enemy would fill him with an undeniable rage.

"Well," Doc continues. He glances over at Ringo and winks at the gunfighter. Ringo fumes in his mind, but continues watching carefully.

"How about that drink?" Doc suggests.

You look at the ground and then back at Doc, who's smiling confidently. "Maybe another time. I..."

Doc's disappointment doesn't show on his face. He tips his hat and throws his cigarette on the ground. "There's no better time than the present. Just one so I can get to know you. Sho'ly that's acceptable."

You begin to rock on your feet. "I think I'd rather not right now. I'm sorry," you answer, your voice low and you quickly move past the death doctor, who watches you leave. He turns away, not looking back at Ringo, who stands with intense satisfaction. Curly Bill growls with laughter.

"Well, look at that, Juanito?" He bellows, patting Johnny on the back. "Old Doc didn't win this round."

"That doesn't mean anything," Johnny answers, not looking at Curly, who quickly looks at Johnny, who's still staring at the spot where you stood.

"Sure it does, son! It means you got a chance now!"

"I'm not going to bother her now. It's bad enough that Holliday did that."

"Well, Billy said she'll be at the hotel restaurant. Let her see you and see what a great fellow you are."

Ringo gives Curly a confused look. He nods and follows Curly into the hotel. When they enter, Ringo scans the room for you. He sees you sitting at a table with a few other people. His heart lifts when he sees you smiling while conversing with the other performers. Curly Bill looks at you and when your eyes meet, he tips his hat. Ringo locks eyes with you and you give him a shy smile. You tuck your hair behind your ear and continue talking with your friends. Ringo is a gentleman and will not approach you in the same brazen way Holliday did. Johnny would want a formal introduction as to not make you uncomfortable. He certainly doesn't want Curly to do it. He would prefer Breckenridge or even Fred White. So, Ringo decides the best it will get for him on this day is simply a chance to savor your large, liquid eyes and keep the memory of your face. Not much beauty exists at this time; bar fights begin early and often turn to deadly shootouts, a few ran out of luck and got lynched and when Ringo wasn't in town, he was surrounded by dirty, tough guys who stink and don't possess anything warm or womanly. And most of the red sash Cowboys were nothing to look at. Scars etched on their tanned faces, grit and dirt in their fingernails and not too mention the cumbersome infections that affect everything from their ears to their toes.

Although Ringo knows Tombstone may not be the first town you performed in and there's some familiarity with this level of violence, he still feels the need to shelter you from that.

Fatty Joe, one of the cooks comes out of the kitchen, mopping his face with his apron. He strolls to the table where you and friends enjoy your time together. "We have a special today for our performers!" He announces. "A special roast." Fatty eyes the lovely ladies and Curly laughs to himself. Old Fatty would fall in love with a limp mule.

Some of the women laugh and smile at Fatty and thank him for cooking something special for them. Fatty exits to the kitchen and a few moments later he returns with steaming dishes of food. "Please enjoy! And this feast today is on the house!"

The performers' clap for Fatty and he wipes his sweaty face with his apron and returns to the kitchen. Curly Bill and Johnny Ringo order lunch and engage in some small talk while waiting for their lunch or waiting for you to look over.

Ringo cuts and eats his meat, mixing some mash potatoes that were smothered in gravy. He admits to himself the food is delicious and he didn't realize how hungry he was. He eats slowly, remembering his upbringing and how his relatives always seemed to savor each bite. On a cattle drive, cowboys never over indulge due to the fact that riding on a full belly could cause severe stomach aches. They ate as slowly as they could when driving or rustling cows. The sound of Pony or whoever acted as bean master calling cowboys over for chuck, was one of the best sounds for a cowboy. Finally, after hours of hard work, they could eat. The boys continue their meal, Ringo discreetly glances over at you, simply delighting in you. He looks down at his meal and pauses for the purposes of digestion. Curly Bill eats quickly, stuffing food into his full mouth. Ringo knows Curly is not known for his manners and no one ever accused him of being charming. Curly stops eating, lets out a small belch and sips his beer. He wipes his mouth with the cloth napkin and sits back in his chair, craving a cigar.

Ringo takes a biscuit and sops up the remaining gravy and potatoes. He pushes his plate away and leans back, feeling satisfied.

"She's even prettier in the light," Curly remarks. "She ain't no whore though. Them whores look great at night, don't they, Juanito? Then when we see them in the light, they sure look different!" Curly laughs. "But hell! They're still beautiful, ain't they? There ain't nothin' like a woman!" Curly Bill keeps his voice low as to not bring unwanted attention. He doesn't want to do anything to ruin Ringo's chances with you although the old cowboy can't help but feel a little envious. But for Johnny, it's more than just a simple crush, Ringo clearly feels a strong sense of love towards you even though he's never even spoken to you. But Curly knows his closest friend who understands that Johnny's expression hardly ever changes so when Curly witnessed Ringo's countenance become rosy, he knew it was love at first sight.

Ringo takes some money out of his pocket to pay for him and Curly when Fatty comes out of the kitchen to collect their plates.

"Next time, boys!" Fatty declares. "Your credit is good here!"

"Much obliged, Fatty," Curly answers.

"Well, a feller don't forget what y'all did for me the day the Wilkins boys rode through here!"

Some time ago, the Wilkins, a gang of robbers from Missouri, rode through town, pistols blazing. When they entered the hotel and demanded free rooms and meals and held Fatty at gunpoint, Curly and Ringo walked in like ghosts and shot the pistol right out of Luck Wilkins' hand. When the gang noticed Ringo and Curly, they left quickly. Fatty never forgot that.

"Fatty," Curly says under his breath. "Do you think you could introduce us to that lovely group of ladies?"

Fatty smiles and looks at the floor. He wipes his face with his apron and nods.

"Sure, boys. Anything for you."

The two cowboys follow Fatty a few steps to the table you and your fellow performers are sitting.

"Ladies," Fatty begins, his hands on his round waist. "This here is Curly Bill Brocious and Johnny Ringo. They're Cowboys!"

You look up at both and Ringo, too flushed to speak, simply tips his hat. He can feel a warmth flowing from his ears to his neck. He feels awkward and anxious to be elsewhere, but wants to savor any moment with you.

Curly Bill tries to speak, but becomes lost with the lovely ladies. He suddenly grows quiet, not sure what to say. "Hello there, ladies," he finally says, hoping he will get a chance to talk with them. And with you.

One of the ladies smiles at Curly. "We're performing tomorrow night. You will be there?" She asks, her eyes locked with Curly's.

Curly Bill swallows, not sure how to respond.

She's talking to me.

Curly reflects. He can feel his face grow a bit hot and flushed.

"What's your name?" Ringo finally manages to say.

"YN," you answer, your voice low. Johnny wonders how you have such a soft voice while speaking, but when singing, your voice floods the entire theater. Johnny fears his gaze will intimidate you and that you may have heard the name, "Johnny Ringo," a gunfighter, rustler, stage coach robber and killer. He sighs and waits for you to speak.

"Did you enjoy the performance?" You ask. Ringo nods, his eyes still secured on your face.

"How long y'all gonna be here in our little town?" Curly asks. He removes his hat, surprised by his own nervousness. Curly wasn't a man that feared much, but in the presence of beautiful women, he would squirm like a school boy.

"We're not sure," one of the dancers responds. "This is better than Dodge City." She flips her hair and Curly growls under his breath.

"Well, we hope you stay a long time!" Curly bellows.

You smile up at Ringo and he's tempted to ask if he can buy you a drink, but remembers how you rejected Doc and Ringo wants to play this hand to win.

Curly Bill can see the discomfort on Ringo's face and knows he should not push the issue and he recalls how you rejected Doc.

"Nice to meet you ladies," Curly tips his hat.

You smile at Ringo and he nods, savoring your face that's more beautiful than ever.

You watch the two cowboys leave. You remember Johnny's face and his intense look with a signature poker face not even Curly can read.

You return to talking with your fellow performers.

"Damn, those ladies sure are beautiful!" Curly Bill declares once they're both on the street. "I would love a chance with one of them. Well, shit! I don't know if that'll ever happen! One of them talked to me! Hell! I can't believe that."

Ringo glances at Curly and he can't help but share Curly's vision for his future. Ringo can tell from looking at you and hearing you sing that you clearly come from a good family. And the talk in the town suggested just that; you grew up in California, your father made his fortune in real estate. He bought older homes, fixed them up and sold them. He also invested some money into some hotels and the profits increased quickly.

You carry yourself in such a way, people can't help but see you're a fine woman and everything a man could ever want. And that voice...

If you had ran off from your tumultuous home life and found refuge traveling to boomtowns to entertain cowboys, a chance with you just may dangle in front of him and he could ensure your alliance simply because you don't have anyone else.

Courting a runaway rebellious lady like Josephine Marcus did not give men the opportunity to test their skills on how to navigate a true conquest. Not that she wasn't pretty; she was considered the most beautiful woman in Tombstone before you came along. Rumors circulated that Josephine Marcus came from a rich family. However, her father, a Jewish baker from New York City was more generous than he was rich. Behan blew through all the money her father sent her and when they came up short on funds, Behan expected Josie to ask her father for more money.

Josephine was beautiful, intelligent and smiled kindly, but did not possess the intoxicating allure you seem to own. Josephine loved being considered Tombstone's most desirable woman and she flaunted her beauty and lovely figure as often as she could. The Cowboys enjoyed sitting outside the Grand Hotel, downing beers and smoking imported cigars as they watched Josie go from store to store. She In addition would engage in small talk with some townsfolk, but rarely ever spoke to the cowboys and they were usually too rosy with awkwardness that the only thing they could ever get out was, "good morning, ma'am." Her style of acting was different and she wasn't a singer, but more of a "showgirl," and in Tombstone, that was synonymous with being a whore. It was no surprise she accepted Behan's courting proposal; it gave her a chance to show the town she was a woman of substance. But her almost child-like disposition caused her to grow bored of Behan. Not to mention his constant womanizing.

Not that Behan didn't try just like so many others; after attempting to swoon you (sometimes in front of Josie), his charm and cherubic face simply didn't catch your attention.

It gave Ringo such peace of mind knowing you were not easily fooled like Josie. It would take more than champagne and fancy dinners to amuse you. And Ringo was grateful as that shows you're a solid woman who doesn't need a man for status. Or money.

Curly Bill noticed Josephine had already blown through several men before she and Behan began seeing each other. She engaged in a brief affair with Silas Edwards who owned one of the jewlery stores, then Bob Clemmons, a shop owner, Samuel Dupont, a real estate developer. She at one time, attempted to seduce Ringo, who was not unaffected by her interest. However, by the time she made it to Ringo, he was already disgusted with her "free lifestyle." When a woman lays down with many men, she'll lay with most of them. And Ringo knew Josie used men to finance her lifestyle and Ringo could never provide the lavish life she was used to.

You are a conquest and that puts you in a different category...

An element of mystery surrounds your presence. You don't have a man to speak of, are not married and not currently allowing anyone to court you. Or perhaps that is simply what the men of Tombstone want to believe. They all love having a beautiful woman to sing for them and these lonely fellows feel privileged to watch you when you perform. And in Tombstone, women were already in short supply and men were becoming increasingly impatient while attempting to court the few that they had.

CHAPTER 3

Securing a Courtship

Curly and Ringo join their fellow rustlers at the Dead End saloon that stood at the end of Allen street where some of the older saloons were.

Ike and Billy Clanton were talking with some of the whores, enjoying the polite conversation. Although they paid well for more intimate services, sometimes a man just needs a woman to talk with and talk to and whores listened and that was better than being ignored. The more cash they threw around, the more these ladies bent their ears to men like the Cowboys. And the illusion of a woman's interest and concern is better than nothing.

Johnny watches his cowboys head upstairs to continue their party and Curly looked around, admiring the ladies of the night. Although in the light, they didn't look like much, it didn't matter. When a man goes months on a drive without seeing women, they all suddenly look wonderful. Curly looks at Red, one of the older whores who was probably past her prime, but still had lovely curves and a angelic face. She eyes Curly, waiting for him to show her some cash. He pulls out a few bills and follows Red upstairs.

Ringo sits and looks at his half shot of whiskey. His mind spins with thoughts of you and your face and oh, that voice. He imagines you singing him to sleep or sneaking into his tent in the middle of the night and sleeping next to him. He feels a pang of misery stab his heart when the reality of his situation reveals itself like always; happiness was never in God's plan for him. Johnny Ringo, destined to ride with outlaws and experience a flood of torment and sorrow and punishment for all his many sins and then die alone. A pitiful existence and not good enough for a lady of substance. For a moment, he almost forgets who he is and imagines a world of delight. A warm and loving place where he's free from the chains of guilt and shame that hold him prisoner of his own heart and his own mind. He begins to feel his eyes grow wet from tears. For when Johnny falls into the abyss of his own depression, he seems to move to another plane of existence and his ears drown everything out. In these moments, only a woman can satisfy the intense hunger he feels, his desperation for warmth and comfort....The comfort only a woman can provide. Johnny feels a little tempted to go to Claudia's place and see his favorite ramera, Lupe. Like most working ladies, she always seemed happy to see him and she's a woman who enjoys what she can do for the lonely men of Tombstone. And Ringo always paid a little more than requested even if just a few dollars. Lupe let him fall asleep with his head on her bosom while she stroked his hair. Sometimes he would offer to engage her in conversation regarding his favorite literature. Or recite a poem he makes up on the spot:

How delightful the touch of a woman

The wonders of her curves

Her sweet aroma of natural sweat unmasked

My spirit comes alive when I lay with her...

Then he'll ask what she thinks...

"Do you think I write as good as Keats?"

And she responds as Ringo expects...

"Si, senor Ringo."

Ringo knows Lupe probably never heard of Keats, but he enjoys that she at least listens, although her comments may not be sincere, the illusion is worth paying for.

Johnny slowly gets up from his seat and moves with his signature walk towards the exit. He cannot rest or sleep if he doesn't at least hold a woman close to his body. He decides to see Lupe. Even if all he does is nap with his head in her lap and dream he is holding you.

Doc Holliday rises from his slumber and sees that Kate is passed out, sleeping off whatever escapades she engaged in the night before. She looked lovely while slept and Doc almost forgets about you.

Holliday begins to cough profusely while taking a handkerchief from his front pocket to cover his coughing. He can feel a burning in his lungs and tries to quiet his condition by breathing but he continues hacking, waking Kate up. She rolls over and sees her gambling companion struggling to catch his breath. A small drop of blood appears in his pale lips. He wipes his mouth and takes a small bow before Kate.

"Why good afternoon, Kate. And where did you find yourself last night? You know I hate to sleep alone." Doc winks at her, causing Kate to roll her eyes. She gets off the bed and pulls a satin bathrobe on and goes to the basin to wash up.

"What's it to you, Doc?" Kate answers, drying her face with a towel. She takes her hair down and begins brushing it. "I saw the way you were looking at that singer, Doc! And you thought I was going to comfort you after that?" She takes the small towel and tosses it on the small table. She begins to dress herself.

Doc lights up a cigarette and sucks on it slowly.

"And where are you off to?" He inquires. He studies the cherry on his cigarette and slowly blows the death smoke from his mouth and nose, causing him to cough again.

Kate finishes lacing her dress and stares at Doc, almost seeing through him. "You can't play without me, don't forget that, Doc!"

Doc smiles and takes one last drag of his cigarette. He puts the cherry out with his fingers and sits up in bed.

"Of course, darlin'...And you can't enjoy the many pleasures of Tombstone without me winning so you see the value in our symbiotic relationship." He flashes her a death grin and hacks through his chuckling.

"Maybe I'll go sit by Johnny Ringo and help him win!" Kate mumbles.

Doc's smile slowly turns to a frown and a cold anger runs through his veins. He starts coughing again, while Kate watches, a mix of pity and disgust on her face. She turns to leave, gives Doc one last look and exits, slamming the door.

Doc sighs and rises from the bed. He watches Kate from the window. It's early afternoon and Doc sees people moving about from the hotel to the restaurant or the many saloons and restaurants. He glares out the window and hopes to see you coming from the theater or going for your practice. He's determined to meet up with you and buy you a drink so he can show you how charming and worldly he is. He doesn't see you or any of the other performers. Without discouragement, he dresses himself, stopping periodically to hack uncontrollably, his throat burns from cigarettes and whiskey. He dismisses his agony and downs booze from his whiskey flask.

"Just some fermented hops and I'll be fine..." He whispers, buttoning his shirt. He puts his hat on, gazes at himself in the mirror and quickly looks away.

"Jesus, Father of sinners, what the hell happened?" He coughs. He can barely recognize the skinny, pale figure that glances back at him. What life could have been if not for his mind numbing virus and memories of the Yankees taking everything...The thoughts of his first cousin and how he would have done anything to be with her. She was the only woman he ever loved; all other women seemed to move in and out of his life like shadows, never providing anything hopeful, real or meaningful.

After leaving Georgia, he met Kate Elder at a casino in Silver City. She caught his eye with her handsome face and rebellious spirit. Doc felt drawn to her and when he realized what she could do for him, he held onto her. She could do more than keep him warm; her ability to distract players and dealers alike impressed the sick dentist and the two of them together became a formidable team that could win hand after hand. And Doc used Kate as much as she used him. They moved from town to town, drinking up the town as well as draining the funds of most of the people Doc played poker with. Kate became invaluable to Doc and they could travel, living off their gains.

Even when drunk, Doc's hands seemed steady and cool. The delicate hands of a dentist; long and slender. Similar to Ringo's.

Doc leaves the room and heads through town, tipping his hat at Tombstone's residents.

While strolling towards Allen Street, Doc notices Ringo, walking towards the Golden Nugget to meet Curly and a few others.

"Well hello there, Johnny Ringo." Doc grunts. "And where are you off to?" Doc stares intensely at the gentleman gunfighter, blowing smoke through his teeth, which is clenching a cigarette. His blood shot eyes move up and down Ringo, who begins to grow full of rage and frustration. There's no way Ringo is fighting the death doctor today. Although not drunk yet, Ringo still cannot control the trembling hands of his. His spirit has been weakened by his love for you and his fear of being rejected by you and destroyed by Holliday.

"Why do you need to know, Holliday?" Ringo inquires, desperately trying to control his growing anger. He dismisses your face for a moment so he can maintain his focus on eventually crushing Doc.

Doc blows smoke from his nose and tosses his cigarette aside, walking in a circular motion as if examining his opponent.

"Off to try to seduce that lovely lady?" Doc's pale lips twist into a sinister smile, his eyes never leaving Ringo's. Doc's hands were steady after he downed enough whiskey to kill a mule and Ringo knew he was in no position to fight Holliday today. He could barely contain his self control and feared Doc would notice his trembling.

Be ready to say something... Say nothing until you're ready to fight...Ringo thinks.

Ringo simply nods and turns to move away from his adversary.

"In a hurry?" Doc chuckles. "Planning to rustle more beef with Curly Bill and his gang of degenerate thieves?"

"No different than your line of work. I like the friends I have," Ringo barks back.

"Well, of course you do. I often wondered if you'd ever be interested in switching sides," Doc ponders, taking his whiskey flask out and downing a shot. Doc knew what to say to increase Johnny's rage and to insult his friends, his brothers always seemed to get the gunfighter angry.

"Besides, how much can Curly Bill and those others do without your smarts?" Doc continues.

"Pull in your horns, Holliday. You don't know a damn thing!" Sweat begins to form on Johnny's brow and Doc lights up another cigarette, smiling in victory.

"Oh, it's true, Ringo," Doc continues, taking long drags on his death stick, circling Johnny, one hand behind his back. His bloodshot eyes rested against his pale skin creating the illusion of death. Doc sometimes resembled a walking corpse.

"What could Curly Bill do without your brains?" Doc lets the smoke exit his mouth in a slow and methodical manner.

"Wyatt Earp could crawl the political ladder a little quicker without you around," Ringo fires back, causing Doc to lose his smile. Ringo feels a small sense of victory.

Doc's smile returns and takes another drag of his cigarette.

"Oh Wyatt will do just fine, Johnny. Not so sure about you though." Doc sneers with contempt and satisfaction. "You really think you can swoon YN?" Doc looks Ringo up and down as if searching for an obvious flaw, but Ringo stands, his Byronic face looking stoic and his hands at his sides, ready to draw his pearl handled pistol.

"Can you?" Ringo barks.

"Given the option of sleeping comfortably in a nice hotel or in a tent, which do you calculate she'll choose?"

Ringo's rage and frustration boils over and it takes everything in him to stay calm.

At that moment, Fred White comes running over.

"That's enough!"

Ringo turns away and Doc continues walking, tipping his hat to the Marshal.

Ringo watches Doc leave. He returns to camp so he doesn't have to be in town. Ringo doesn't want his gang asking too many questions and with the mood he's in, he could put himself in a dangerous situation. When he gets back to camp, he sees a few cowboys, sharpening their knives or firing shots at empty bottles. Ringo takes a bottle of whiskey and escapes into his tent. He drinks the rotgut and feels the burn of a cheap liquor coat his throat. He recalls the conversation he had with Holliday and curses himself for allowing himself to become intertwined in a conversation with the sick doctor. He shakes his head and downs more whiskey.

Doc confidently moves through town, searching for an unsuspecting thug to play poker with while sipping on fermented lots. He tips his hat while humming to himself. He enters the Oriental where Wyatt is counting receipts, a cigar hanging from his mouth. He pauses to sip his black coffee and returns to his business.

"What was all that about?" Wyatt inquires, taking his cigar out of his mouth. He looks up at Holliday, who is busy motioning for the bar dog to pour him more whiskey.

"Mr. Ringo. Out causing trouble for our charming little town."

Wyatt shoots a look at Doc, but decides not to admonish his friend, but gives a look of disapproval. Doc and Ringo had a mutual understanding: they hated each other. And now that the two seem hellbent on competing for your attention, it's only going to get worse.

"Stay away from Ringo, Doc," Wyatt answers, sipping more coffee. He lets the stream of smoke slowly exit his lungs.

"Not so simple, my friend. In a town this small, we're going to run into each other," Doc downs his drink and orders more.

"Doc, you've got Kate," Wyatt begins. "I don't think you should be chasing after YN. Not that I blame you. She's beautiful." Wyatt leans in and continues his work, pausing to knock the ash off his cigar.

"Yes, I do have Kate." Doc nods slowly and finishes off his drink. The barkeep refills Doc's glass and puts a fresh bottle next to the full glass. Doc tips his hat and tosses money at the bartender.

"And you have Maddie," Doc reminds Wyatt.

Wyatt stops and folds his hands together, waiting for Doc to admonish him for seeing Josephine Marcus on the sly while Maddie falls into a drug induced sleep. It didn't seem to bother Wyatt that Josie was seeing him and Behan and he hoped eventually, he could pull her away from the insincere affections of John Behan.

"Ok," Wyatt responds., folding his hands in front of him.

"You can't blame any man for wanting a chance with YN." Doc coughs and takes a deep breath. "I can't stand the thought of that down and dirty cowboy escorting such a lovely lady through town." Doc stares at his glass. "She deserves better. Don't you agree, Wyatt? I feel an obligation to protect her."

Wyatt looks down at his coffee and lets out a sigh. He shuffles his papers and stacks them together.

"Alright, Doc." Wyatt puffs his cigar. "I don't want any more trouble with Curly Bill and his gang of idiots."

"Likewise I'm sure," Doc answers before leaving. He takes the whiskey bottle and leaves the saloon. He returns to the hotel. When he looks out the window, he sees you leaving the theater. He checks himself in the mirror; his tired eyes stare back at him and he can't recognize the sunken face and pale, almost gray skin. He dismisses it and heads down the stairs. He walks down the stairs just in time to help you across the street.

"Well, hello to the lovely song bird," Doc says, smiling while tipping his hat to you.

"Good afternoon," you reply.

Doc looks you up and down; your features seem so delicate in comparison to Kate. Kate's prominent nose and handsome face made her attractive enough, but your tender beauty drives him crazy.

"Where are you headed? Allow me to escort you, my dear. A lovely lady like yourself should have an escort." Doc's eyes soak up your beauty and he savors each second he gets to look at you.

You lower your head. "Why, no. I am just fine. This is not the first boomtown I've been in."

Doc nods. "Well, I hope our little community provides everything you desire." He lights up a cigarette by habit.

"It's been just fine for us." You answer, looking at the ground.

Doc lifts your chin. "Don't look to the ground, my dear. With such a beautiful face, you should be looking up." He smiles and holds back his temptation to hack again.

"Um...thank you. Thank you."

Doc feels a sense of surprise that on the stage, your voice floods the theater, but off the stage, it's as if a switch flipped and you suddenly grow quiet and shy.

"Allow me to take you to our delightful little bakery. Sho'ly you enjoy sweets?"

You nod your head and Doc puts his arm out so he can escort you. You bashfully walk with Doc, his head held high, proud to be walking through town with you.

Doc's impeccable manners charm you. He relaxes in his chair, gazing at the menu while you sit together. You bite your lip and wonder what to order.

"Try the chocolate layer cake," Doc suggests. He motions for the waiter.

"What can I get you both?" The server asks.

"Sho'ly you know YN," Doc inquires. "Have you heard her sing? She sounds like an angel." Doc winks at you, confident he can win over on Ringo.

"Why, yes! What a lovely voice."

"YN will have the chocolate layer cake and I will have a slice of peach pie."

The waiter nods his head and heads to the kitchen.

"There's nothing quite like a Georgia peach," Doc says, smiling. He winks at you. He feels tempted to take a swig from his whiskey flask, but wants to show you what a true gentleman is like. He thinks about Ringo and smiles to himself, knowing Ringo hasn't escorted you anywhere and here Doc sits, waiting to share dessert with you. He hopes Ringo strolls through the door so Doc can face his adversary with triumph.

The waiter returns with your treats and places them on the table. Doc takes the cloth and gently shakes it, laying it on his lap. The waiter offers coffee and you take a cup and saucer and put it in front of yourself. Braided frosting frames the slice and sits in between layers of soft cake.

"May I have some cream and sugar please?" You ask the waiter, who leans in to hear you.

"Of course!" The server heads to the kitchen and returns with your request.

You look at Doc and to his delight, you smile. "I always have cream and sugar with my coffee." You take a sip and then a bite of your dessert. The rich frosting awakens with wonder as the chocolate cream mixes with soft cake and dances in your mouth.

"This is heavenly!" You declare.

"Just like that voice of yours," Doc declares subconsciously. He looks off in the distance as if waiting for something or someone to break him free of his trance.

"Where did you learn to sing?" Doc asks, sucking the pie off his fork.

"My mother could sing without even looking at the notes!" You answer.

"Is that a fact?" Doc ponders.

"Yes! All she had to do was listen to the song and she could hit every note. She was amazing!" You glance down at your half eaten desert and rest your head on your arms.

"All she had to do was sing to me and well...I just felt better. I always wanted to sing like her!"

"Her voice must have been angelic," Doc whispers.

You nod your head and smile at the sick dentist.

"She could sing like the heavens!" My father would say." You push your half eaten desert and smile, looking at your cake.

"I always wished I could sing like her!" Your face lights up. Doc grins and finishes his pie. He watches you while you lick the frosting off your fork. His body throbs with curiosity.

"Well," Doc begins, relaxing comfortably in his chair. "She must have been." He can't take his eyes off of you and even if this becomes the only encounter you experience with Doc, he'll be forever grateful for this moment.

You gaze through the window and into the streets as if waiting for something. You shrug and smile tenderly. You enjoyed Doc's company.

"So, where are you from, YN?" Doc inquires, craving whiskey.

"Originally we're from Chicago. Then when my father passed from influenza, my mother made a living singing in local theaters." You look at your empty plate and rest your elbows on the table. You let out a sigh and Doc can see your memories bubbling and he hopes your mind and heart embrace the better ones.

As for Doc himself, he grew up in Georgia; he and his family attended every social gathering that took place on the plantations of "The Land of Cotton." Everything seemed so perfect for his family and the promise of attending dental school and securing a successful practice gave Doc so much hope for the future. He would fall in love again, be a respected Southern gentleman and eventually have a family with a son he could mentor.

Then came the overwhelming oppression from the North. The Yankees declared war and Doc, like so many others including Ringo watched their entire world fall apart. The South sank to its knees and the South became leveled with the Yankees destroying everything in their path. Doc knew the South would never rise again and he abandoned his dreams of working as a dentist and marrying the love of his life. He moved like a ghost through Georgia, gazing at the plantations that once stood proud as a symbol of prosperity in the Confederacy. Now, the large estates were leveled, houses that once stood proud were falling apart, just one fierce rainstorm away from collapsing. Doc rode through the old plantations with a growing fear in his heart and with the realization he will never achieve what he truly wanted and there was no such thing as a normal life anymore. But perhaps he could your affections and spend the last few years of life with at least a little hope.

"Well, um. Thank you for the cake," you tell Doc before you get up from the table. While you're gathering your things, you see Breckenridge who notices you sitting with Doc and he tips his hat to you. Billy wonders what Johnny Ringo would think if he knew Doc already got you to have dessert with him.

Doc stands up, pushes in his chair and offers to escort you out. You shake your head, suddenly feeling shy. "No thank you, I can manage." He looks into your beautiful eyes and bows before you.

"Whatever you say, dear," Holliday answers, winking at you. You watch him stride confidently out of the bakery and move towards the Crystal Palace. Doc was indeed the most sophisticated man you have met so far, but nowhere near as mysterious as the cowboy, Johnny Ringo.

Doc feels a strong sense of accomplishment and believes he can secure a courtship with you. You, however, cannon forget the dark and intriguing eyes of Johnny Ringo.

You return to the hotel where most of the performers are staying. After washing up, you decide to take a short rest before getting ready for another performance at the Bird Cage.

While preparing for your performance, the Cowboys get ready to attend the show. All of them spend the afternoon drinking up the town, taking baths, getting shaved and a few have their clothes laundered.

Doc has no intention of missing you sing and he remembers the brief, but pleasant time he spent with you. Doc's memory embraces your face and your sweet laugh and also how soft spoken you seem when off the stage. He puts his suit on and walks toward the theater, lighting up a cigarette.

Doc struts to the Birdcage and sees a group of cowboys, Curly Bill and Ringo walking in front. He feels tempted to annoy Johnny, but decides he'd rather save his energy for you. He's determined to take you to dinner so he can continue to demonstrate his cultured sophistication. Ringo's signature gait almost causes a small sense of admiration by Doc; Ringo walked with confidence regardless of where he was going and his quiet demeanor made him appear more mysterious.

But in the end, he's just a smelly cowboy who never amounted to anything in his life, Doc smiles to himself.

Doc meets Wyatt, Maddie and Morgan who all sit in balcony seats.

"Good evening, all," Doc drawls while taking a seat. He tips his hat to Maddie.

"Where's Kate?" Wyatt asks, looking through the program to find your picture.

"I calculate she had another engagement," Doc responds, unaffected by her absence. He feels relieved he can focus on you now.

The orchestra begins to play while two dancers grace the stage, moving whimsically through the music while the Cowboys whistle and clap. Curly Bill looks at Ringo, who seems more interested in his whiskey than anything else. Curly grins and returns his attention to the dancers.

When the players exit the stage, thunderous applause echoes through the theater. Doc takes a long drag of his cigarette.

Another act begins; a man reciting Byron which causes Ringo to smile sarcastically, thinking the actor doesn't embrace the passion Byron wished to convey to his readers.

The audience enjoys a few more acts before silence floods the Bird Cage.

Then you appear, gracefully waltzing to the center of the stage, your body adorned with a beige colored dress with sparkling sequence from top to bottom. The dress falls to a V shape around your breasts and your arms bare.

The Cowboys begin whistling, causing Ringo to flash a few of them with a look of contempt. Curly, too engaged in you, doesn't notice anything else.

You begin singing Ave Maria in acapella and like before, your voice bathes the theater in a golden light so passionate, even the Cowboys sit with their jaws on the floor. They understand at that moment why Ringo cannot seem to get his head straight.

Johnny Ringo locks eyes with you for a moment and in that short burst of time, he holds your loveliness in his mind, knowing on some level, he may never have you. That he may lose you to Doc Holliday. Holliday's motives were based on pride, whereas Ringo's heart truly desires you.

You smile at Johnny towards the end of your song, causing a few cowboys to shout and whistle. You find it amusing and funny that these tough men could become so docile just being in the presence of a woman.

At the conclusion of your song, you take a bow and for the first time since you began performing some weeks ago, you smile gratefully at the audience of mostly tipsy cattle rustlers.

Your smile, like your voice seems to weaken the knees of every man in the theater. Ringo, to his own surprise smiles back at you with hopeful eyes.

While you gracefully leave the stage, you can still hear the thunderous applause and the look in Johnny Ringo's eyes and his clear desire for you. Although, stories flutter around about the Byronic cowboy regarding his questionable past, you find yourself drawn to this mysterious man named Johnny Ringo.

Ringo thinks in his mind:

I feel a sense of strong intimidation along with the unusual attraction I have for her. Her voice, so angelic and her face so lovely. I thought Josephine Marcus was beautiful until I saw YN. My overwhelming desire wraps itself around me to the point I cannot breathe. She is so much more to me than a bet, a challenge or a conquest.

Johnny continues gazing up at you, ignoring the shot of whiskey he held in his hand. When your lock, he takes his hat off, suddenly feeling flushed and foolish as if he just gave himself away. You smile delicately at the gunfighter and without thinking, he returns the gesture. Women are scarce in Tombstone; there were plenty of rameras to go around, but those women only provided temporary relief from the mind numbing lonlieness that frames the Wild West frontier. Beautiful women of substance were tougher to find in Tombstone than daisies in winter and then men of Tombstone did not want to share the delightful little gems that did grace the town. Many men vowed for Josephine's attention; Curly and some of the other Cowboys would sit outside the hotel or the restaurant just so they could see her walking through town, covering her beautiful face with a parasol or handkercheif, depending on the amount of dust the Arizona wind blew around. Josephine usually said hello, but not much more and although she did not engage in conversation with any of the boys, they felt priviledged to at least get some attention from her even if it was just a smile. Josephine was seeing Behan and the two planned on marrying; in fact, Josephine was using Behan's name and even calling herself "Mrs." But Ringo knew her taste in men was questionable and never seemed to understand why women seemed so drawn to Behan. Ringo had not noticed the dashing sheriff conversing with you and it would not matter if Behan was married to Josie, he was known for his philandering ways and Josie, although a good woman would never be enough for a man like Behan.

Ringo dismissed those thoughts and continued to focus on you. Although only a few momenys had passed since your eyes locked, it felt so much longer. He watches you and his heart lifts while he thinks about a way to approach you after the performance or follow you through town so he can meet up with you.

The curtain falls and while people are still applauding, as others pick up their items and head to the door.

"I see what you mean, Doc," Wyatt sighs, rolling up the show's program. "Very lovely. I have never heard a voice like that."

Doc nods slowly. "Yes," he agrees.

"But with a face like that, you're going to have some competition," Wyatt says, raising his eyebrows.

"Sho'ly," Doc responds. "I loathe the very idea of her taking up with Johnny Ringo. The nerve of that man!"

"Let's go. I've got to return to the Oriental. Morg is dealing now."

"Well, certainly, Wyatt. I will be along shortly. It was delightful seeing you, Maddie."

Maddie looks to the floor and sighs heavily. She knows her evening will consist of her returing to their cabin and fall into a drug induced sleep while Wyatt deals faro and tries to seek the attention of Josephine Marcus.

The Cowboys filter out of the theater in drunken gaits, patting each other on the back and sucking on imported cigars. They leave to find another place to continue their party.

Curly Bill stands and looks at Ringo and is concerned for his friend. Curly Bill knows all to well how Ringo can become when consumed with something.

"Johnny?" Curly begins, causing Ringo to awaken from his coma. "You coming to party with us boys?"

Ringo looks up and slowly nods. He stands, his unreadable poker face staring at the exit. He follows the others out and then sees you walking out of the back wing of the theater. He swallows hard and adjusts his hat, clearing his throat. Curly Bill sees you and then looks at Ringo. Curly chuckles. "Good luck, Juanito, round two!"

Ringo shows a small smile and walks towards you.

You stop walking while Ringo moves closer to you. He can feel his face grow red and flushed by his own shyness. He walks as confidently as he can. He's delighted when you smile at him and you appear more beautiful than he recalls. He tips his hat to you.

"Good evening, YN," Ringo says. He takes his hat off and holds it in his hands, trying not to rock back and forth on his feet, showing his fear.

"It's Johnny, right?" You ask, the smile never leaving your face.

Ringo feels a sense of relief that you offer your consideration even though you only met him once at the hotel restaurant.

"Yes, ma'am," he responds. It's tough for him to say much else because of his nervousness; not just because he doesn't want to endure the humilation Doc would rain over him, but also because each time he sees you, he becomes more smitten with you.

"Well, it's nice to see you, Johnny," you beam.

Ringo to his own surprise smiles back at you, keeping your large liquid eyes in his memory.

"It's real nice to see you. I enjoyed your performance. It was as lovely as you," Ringo remarks, suddenly feeling that hot and flushed feeling. He recalls experiencing similar emotions when the girls at church would turn around to get a glimpse of the mysterious boy called Johnny Ringo.

"A lovely lady like yourself should have an escort," Johnny clears his throat. "I would like to ensure your safety this evening. You may have noticed, it gets wild here, especially at night."

You smile up at Johnny, who you can't help but like; he held himself like an aristrocratic cowboy. He suddenly snaps back from. "Unless you already have one." Ringo looks at his boots, still holding his hat.

"No, I don't," you convey softly. You shake your head and then glace back at the gentleman gunfighter.

"It would be an honor to ensure your safety." Johnny puts his hat back on and waits for your response. He feels a slow ember of confidence begin to burn in his heart. He knows he's not as sophisticated as Doc Holliday, but Ringo has a charm that is as interesting as it is mysterious.

"Thank you, Mr. Ringo," you finally answer.

"Johnny." He tells you.

You nod and take his arm. Johnny Ringo walks with pride down the street with you, moving towards the shops that line the town. A few jewelry stores, a music shop that sells various instruments, a stationary, small art museum, photography studio and other small boutiques that offer the latest styles and custom dress making and a tailor. Several barber shops also line the street and other clothing stores.

Johnny desperately tries to think of something to say. "It's a lovely evening for a walk through town," he says in a soft voice.

"It is," you answer, not sure what to make of this mysterious gunfighter.

"Let me know where you're headed. I'll make sure you get there safely," Ringo tells you, looking straight ahead.

"Well, you begin. "I'm going to the hotel to rest."

Johnny nods his head and escorts you to the Grand Hotel. He takes his hat off and waits for you to disappear up the stairs and into the lobby. When you're out of sight, he puts his hat on and turns to leave. He stops quickly when he sees Doc Holliday moving towards him, a death grin on his face while blowing smoke from his cigarette.

"Why, Johnny Ringo. I see you made an acquaintance." Doc stops walking and looks Ringo up and down. Ringo is in no mood to fight Holliday and his mind is still spinning from walking with you. The sweet aroma of your perfume is enough to weaken him.

"What's it to you, Holliday?" Ringo inquires, staring the death doctor with as much confidence as he coud muster considering his imapired judgement.

Doc holds his cigarette between his fingers while tapping the handle of his pistol. Johnny's eyes move about, eyeing with wonder how steady Doc's hands were.

"You still thinking you're going to win her affections, don't you, Ringo?" Doc examines his opponent.

"Are you?" Johnny quickly responds.

Doc smiles, while he suddenly grows motionless, still holding his cigarette. Doc's ability to move quickly and gracefully and then turn to stone could distract the steadiest of minds. Including Ringo's.

"Oh, I guess nobody informed you. I had the chance to escort that lovely lady through town and we enjoyed a delightful moment together."

Ringo's eyes narrow in on his nemesis for a moment and confusion begins to surface on his face. He can feel his neck grow hot from his rage.

Doc's expression changes and he begins to grin with an almost child like countenance.

"It turns out, YN enjoys chocolate cake." Doc taps his ivory handled gun. He blows smoke from his mouth, his eyes never leaving Ringo's.

"She also loves cream and sugar in her coffee. I bet you didn't know that, Johnny." Doc winks at Ringo, who turns to leave.

"It was a wonderful moment we two shared together," Doc finishes, still standing motionless.

"And what did Kate think about that?" Johnny retorts.

Doc's smile fades for a moment and Ringo feels a sense of triumph. Women were so scarce in Tombstone, it was unlikely that any man would leave his woman. Being without a woman seemed worse. At the very least, you could sleep next to one and feel the comfort of her touch, knowing all the uncomfortable moments promised more intimate ones.

"Well, you know Kate, Ringo." Doc finally answers.

"Go to hell, Holliday!" Ringo responds, turning to leave.

"I'll let YN know you said hello!" Doc asserts.

Ringo's rage boils over and he pulls his pistol quickly and due to his spinning head, he misses Doc by a hair and then stumbles backwards, almost losing his balance. Doc chuckles with triumph, his composure never shaken. He winks at a frustrated Ringo.

"What the hell is going on here, Ringo?" Wyatt Earp demands, moving closer to the battling gunmen.

"Evidently, Mr. Ringo here cannot hold his liquor well." Doc shakes his head and takes a long drag of his cigarette.

Wyatt and Virgil take Ringo by his arms and force him towards the horse troph where they dunk his head in the dirty water. They pull him out, Johnny gasping for air and cursing the Earp brothers.

"Sons of bitches!" Ringo howls, causing Wyatt to drop Ringo into the water again.

"Cool off, Ringo!" Virgil shouts, slapping Johnny in the back of the head. The lawmen toss Johnny aside and he falls, knocking over two chairs after losing his balance. Ringo spits towards the Earps and Doc smiles, watching Ringo squirm.

"What's this about, Doc?" Virgil demands.

Johnny staggers to his feet and throws himself at Doc, who laughs and moves out of the way with his signature aristocratic gait. He holds back his urge to cough and circles around Johnny, who can barely stand, water dripping from his head.

"Would you have to ask Johnny Ringo. He came at me like a wildcat."

"That's enough, Doc," Wyatt shouts. "I already told you to stay away from Ringo! I don't want anymore trouble!"

Ringo, still soaking wet, stares Doc and the Earps down. He knew he made a fool of himself and hoped you didn't witness any of it and hates the idea of you finding out or worse - Doc Holliday telling you about how Ringo was so drunk and out of control that the law had to cool him off by shoving his head into a horse troph.

"Sleep it off, Ringo!" Virgil demands, showing a look of disgust at Holliday, who seems unaffected by the Earps attitude. Doc takes a whiskey flask from his front pocket. He reveals a death grin to the men there and takes a long swig. He clears his throat, stifles a cough and tips his hat to Ringo, who can barely stand.

"Just give up, Mr. Ringo," Doc warns, backing away. "What will YN think when she learns about this?"

Ringo stands upright and moves to throw a punch at Doc, who quickly moves out of the way, mocking Ringo's clumsiness.

"I said that's enough!" Wyatt shouts as he and Virgil take Ringo to a holding cell located behind the courthouse.

"What the hell am I being arrested for?" Ringo demands.

"Fighting!" Virgil growls back. "Let's go, cowboy. Maybe your friends will bail you out!"

You hear some commotion from your hotel and you look out the window and see the Earp brothers arresting a man who looks like he was pulled out of a bath tub. This is not the first boomtown you performed in and you dismiss it as just a part of performing in places like this. You see Doc Holliday, pointing and laughing at the man being arrested and wonder what is so amusing to the aristocratic poker player. You turn away from the scene, feeling somewhat disgusted by Doc finding humor in such violence. You close the curtain and sit on the edge of your bed. You blow air out of your lungs and drink some tea to relieve the dryness of your throat. You can still hear fighting from the street, but you cannot make out what they're saying.

"YN is too good for you!" You hear Holliday belt and you stand and look out the window again. You swallow and wonder what's happening. You hope it's not about you or that men in town are vying for your attention. You recall a time when you were singing in Silver City. One man stood up during your piece and pointed his pistol at a man in the balcony. "Let's see who she wants!" The man yelled in a drunken voice. The fellow in the balcony ducked out quickly, but got hit in the shoulder before he could exit the theater. Several other men drew their pistols and began shooting holes in the ceiling and pointing their loaded guns at each other and at the stage. With intense fear, you dashed off the stage, but could still hear hollering from the audience and a rush of people ran to the door to leave. You recall how awful you felt after that and the entire troupe decided to leave the town the following day. But you will never forget how two men almost killed each other over you. The fear you experienced from that fateful evening creeps into your mind, sinking to your heart and belly.

Please, don't ever let that happen! With tired eyes and a full heart, you fall asleep, the sounds of the town grow dim along with the light that becomes shrouded by the night.

Ringo struggles against the law men, but they overpower him and drag him to the jail. Ringo grabs the prison bars, looks to the ground and curses them.

"You damn self righteous sons of bitches!" Ringo bellows

"You're losing over mind over YN!" Wyatt grumbles, fumbling with the keys. "You and Doc both better give up this conquest of yours. YN isn't going to be with either one of you. It was foolish of you both to enter into this deranged bet."

Ringo sits on the cot and holds his head in his hands. The image of your face enters his mind and he closes his eyes and delights in a whimsical fantasy where you come to his rescue. His ears become flooded with your voice.

"You'll stay in here and cool down, Ringo. I'm sure Curly Bill will be here to make bail as soon as he hears about this. And you tell that idiot we don't want anymore trouble with you cowboys!"

Ringo smiles menancingly at the Earps.

"You're the boss, Earp!" Ringo groans.

"And don't forget it, you reckless son of a bitch!" Wyatt snaps.

Ringo stands and faces Wyatt. Ringo's menacing stare causes Wyatt to back away a few inches. Ringo's eyes showed a fearlessness that bordered on rage.

I should let him rot!

Wyatt thinks.

"Do you understand, Ringo?!" Wyatt growls.

"It's easy to understand men like you, Earp," Johnny grunts.

"I really hate your attitude, Ringo."

Wyatt turns to leave.

"I already told Doc. You two are going to end this ridiculous bet of yours! The both of you are acting like petulant boys."

"Maybe Doc should be in here with me. He's not innocent in this," Ringo snaps. "You wouldn't have to worry about losing money because of his cheating." Ringo backs away from the bars, his face twisting into a sinister smile. "I heard about that fellow in Dodge. Doc cut that poor bastard from his dick to his neck!" Ringo turns and sits on the bed.

"See you for your bail hearing tomorrow morning!" Wyatt shouts before leaving.

Ringo holds his head in his hands.

I wish I never saw her!

For Johnny Ringo, he didn't care about some stupid bet. He's desperately in love and cannot shake the vision of your face or lose the sound of your voice...He knows Curly Bill will be at the hearing to bail him out.

Billy Breckenridge moves quickly to the Dead End and bursts through the batwings and heads to where Curly and a few other cowboys are drinking and talking to the prostitutes.

"Howdy, deputy!" Curly bellows.

"They arrested Ringo!" Billy shouts.

Curly downs his shot and wipes his mouth with the back of his hand.

"For what? Curly demands.

Billy puts his hands on his hips and looks at the floor. "Fighting with Holliday."

Curly Bill takes his hat off and runs his fingers through his unruly dark hair. He lets out a sigh and holds his hat while he leans forward.

"Damnit!" Curly groans. "Hearing tomorrow for bail?" He asks Breckenridge, who nods, his hands on his waist.

"First thing in the morning," Breckenridge responds.

"He and Doc are both making fools out of themselves," Billy adds.

"That damn Doc Holliday," Curly growls. "This is a game for that lunger! Johnny really cares about YN."

"What happened to Doc?" Curly asks.

"Nothing! Wyatt told him to stay away from Ringo and YN. But he wasn't arrested."

"Well, I already figured that!" Curly grunts. "We'll bail Ringo out and then he's gotta get his head right. We got plans for rustling and we need Ringo's help. His head is so far away on her!" Curly replaces his hat. He stands and admires himself in the mirror behind the bar. He sucks in his gut and throws his chest out. "What a fine looking man!" Curly chuckles.

The cowboys return to the Grand and decide to stay in town so they can get to the hearing first thing in the morning. Curly removes his boots, takes his shirt and pants off and falls asleep.

Ringo paces the cell he finds himself locked in. He cannot shake the image of you, the aroma of your citrusy perfume, how you let him escort you, the feeling of your arm wrapped around his and your large, liquid eyes that seem so full of innocence. Ringo tries to get some rest, but fears his dreams will torment his already aching heart. He imagines for a moment you coming to the jail and opening the door. He sees your beautiful frame while you slowly enter. You pull a hood off your head and show him your lovely face. Ringo rises from his bed and walks towards to where you stand, your arm held out for him.

"I'm here now, Johnny," you whisper. "I'm here to take you away. Everything is alright now..." Johnny Ringo takes you in his arms and holds you close, feeling the warmth that comes from your love. He closes his eyes and cups your face in his hands.

"Get up, Ringo!" Virgil Earp grunts, shattering Johnny's wonderful vision. Virgil enters while Ringo staggers to his feet.

"Move it, cowboy!" Virgil groans, pushing Ringo out of the cell. Wyatt enters and while Virgil holds Johnny still, Wyatt cuffs his hands and pushes him towards the exit. With great humilation, Ringo walks to the courthouse, trying to ignore the stares of the townspeople, who shake their heads or cover their open mouths. Another cowboy causing trouble again and the Earps coming to the rescue of the good people of Tombstone.

Ringo looks around for you and hopes to God and hell that you are not present. He cannot see you, although the sunlight is almost blinding. Ringo sees Curly Bill and a few other cowboys walking to the courthouse.

Judge Spicer enters the courthouse and takes a sip of whiskey before putting his robe on. He bangs his gavel and asks the Earps to state their case. Curly and the others enter the courtroom. Curly struts close to the Earps, flashing a confident smile.

"Well, hell, Wyatt. How have you been?"

"What's the charge and does the defendant have any legal counsel?"

"Fighting," Wyatt responds.

"Fighting with who?" Spicer asks.

"Doc Holliday." Wyatt answers. Spicer sighs and leans back.

"And where is Mr. Holliday?" Spicer inquires.

"Good question," Curly snaps, causing Wyatt to flash the old rustler a look of contempt.

A quiet hush falls over the room. "Well?" Spicer inquires.

Wyatt and Virgil look at each other. They're plan to pin the entire thing on Ringo became clear and Spicer lets out a cough.

"Well, I'm not willing to hear anything without both parties here." He bangs his gavel again. "Case dismissed. And stop wasting my time, Earp!"

Spicer gets up and leaves, removing his robe and heading to the back office of the courthouse.

Curly Bill begins guffawing loudly. "Round three!"

"I'm headed to the Dead End," Curly announces. "I'll see you boys there soon!"

Ringo can feel his rage and frustration begin to grow so intense, he clenches his fists and heads to the Dead End saloon where he won't be bothered by Holliday or the Earps. He moves through the batwings to find Curly Bill drinking beer while trying to impress the two whores who seemed to delight in his jokes. But, the more money Curly threw on the table, the more interested they became. Ringo half smiles at his friend who calls him over.

"Johnny!" Curly begins. "Say hello to these lovely ladies."

Ringo tips his hat and the women eye the gentleman gunfighter carefully.

"Johnny here likes to read. You girls like to read?" Curly asks, his laugh causes Johnny to grin a bit.

"Hell, I ain't never really liked books!" Curly guffaws. The two girls began giggling, vying for more of Curly's attention. And money.

"You alright there, Juanito?" Curly inquires, concerned for his friend. Ringo nods and moves to the bar in a quiet fashion. His silence speaks volumes to Curly Bill, who understands how quickly Ringo can turn to stone and move silently into an abyss of darkness. Curly feels for Johnny. He shakes his head and tips his hat to the two prostitutes who begin counting the money Curly gave them to sit near him and laugh at his jokes.

Curly stands at the bar next to Johnny, who sips his whiskey slowly. The barkeep places an open bottle of nose paint in front of Ringo. Johnny pours a few shots and downs them before acknowledging Bill.

"Johnny," Curly begins. "Maybe you oughta forget about YN." Curly lowers his head. Johnny turns to face Curly Bill and Bill finds himself at a loss for words when he notices the look of contempt on Johnny's face.

"You don't know what you're saying, Bill," Ringo responds, taking another shot.

"She ain't gonna go with you or Holliday, Juanito," Curly answers. "Come on now, son. You know we ain't gonna be with a woman like that. Hell, she don't even like Behan and he seems to get lucky with any lady around here!"

"She's too good for Behan," Johnny says, focusing on his drink.

"I reckon she is," Curly Bill responds. "I'm just sayin' you gettin' your dander up over this lady..." Curly shakes his head. "You could lose your head real quick. Women like that could get us killed."

Johnny flashes Curly a look of disgust.

"Hold on, Johnny! I didn't mean it like that. I meant that thinking about a lady like that all the time...Well. A man could lose his head real quick. Women make us slower and weaker," Curly continues. "I feel my head spin whenever I see a pretty smile and I know I wouldn't be able to keep my head about me after seeing a lady smile."

"I can't forget about YN, Curly Bill." Ringo finally says.

Curly Bill stands with his hands on his hips. He looks to the ground and slolwy shakes his head.

"They just passing though here, son. They're gonna be leaving here and heading somewheres else."

Ringo stares through Curly Bill with his signature poker face. Ringo turns to leave and walks to the livery to get his horse. Curly Bill blows air out of his lungs and watches his friend leave. He returns to the saloon where the two whores are waiting.

"Where's your friend, Curly?" One of the girls asks, sucking on a cigarette. Curly grins and moves towards the table. He can see the insincerity in their mannerisms. He shakes his head and feels a sense of sympathy for Ringo. Curly knew whores like this was the best it was going to get for him.

Curly peers out the window of the saloon and sees Ringo mounting his gelding. He spurs the horse and heads back to camp. Curly sighs and returns his attention to the women and the full whiskey bottle before him.

While riding back to camp, Ringo sees you coming out of the hotel. He pulls the reigns in to slow his animal and hopes you'll see him. More importantly, he hopes that his encounter with Doc and the Earps was not blowing through town like a whilwind of gossip. You look up and see Ringo and when your eyes meet, he tips his hat to you. To his surprise, you smile and wave. You appear more lovely than ever.

"Hi, Johnny!" You say.

Ringo pulls his horse to a stop. He gazes down at you and marvels over your soft bossom resting on the frame of the pink and white dress that adorns your curves.

"Good afternoon, ma'am," Ringo manages to say, tipping his hat to you.

"Nice to see you, Johnny," you beam. "Did you hear that trouble last night? I heard someone gunfire and I got scared."

Ringo's heart sinks and he hopes you didn't hear the other men shouting his name before they dragged him to jail. He tries to find a way to respond, but finds himself unable to speak.

"Do you know, Johnny? I saw Doc Holliday there. Did he hurt someone?" You shade your face from the sun with your hand while you gaze up at Ringo.

"Well, ma'am," Ringo begins. "Holliday does seem to find trouble wherever. I apologize if he disturbed you."

You recall the time at the theater at Silver City and you let out a sigh and brush the hair away from your face. The Arizona wind sweeps through your hair, blowing it around your beautiful countenance. "I guess that's what happens in towns like this." You shrug. You don't want to cause any trouble for anyone, but you're aware that sometimes men can lose their minds over the women of the theater troops. And why wouldn't they? All the dancers and actresses wear gorgeous costumes, decorated with beads and sequins. Your hair and makeup always done professionally and that made these ladies look more like China dolls and since men outnumbered the homely women of Tombstone, the men in town were dying from a lack of pretty ladies who aren't wearing rags or clothes that suggest they were working like field hands. The other women who came to town usually accompanied their tired and dirty farmer husbands. These men were hunched over, their backs twisted from the hard work that came from farm life and their wives had faces that look puffed up with stringy hair and simple skirts held up with belts. These women rarely smiled; they came into town to purchase supplies. They followed their spouses, sold their eggs, fresh milk or pork roasts and then returned to their unfulfilled lives on the farm.

When theater groups come to town, men cannot wait to get to the BirdCage so they can see women wearing glamorous clothes and wonderfully done makeup.

Ringo recalls these moments while he stares down at you from his gelding.

"Well, no," you say softly. "I just got a little scared, that's all."

"I won't let anyone hurt you, YN," Ringo announces, adjusting his hat.

You beam up at Ringo. Your smile melts his heart.

"Where are you off to?" Johnny inquires trying to start a conversation.

"Singing practice," you reply, petting his horse that starts to liven up.

"Whoa, boy," Ringo gently corrects his horse. "I think he likes you, YN," Johnny answers.

"Well, I should get to practice." You turn to leave. Johnny struggles to find his voice.

"Mind if I come listen?" Johnny asks, settling his gelding.

"That would be real fine, Johnny!" You smile.

Ringo tips his hat again and heads back to the livery. Curly Bill looks out the window of the saloon and sees Johnny returning his gelding.

"I'll be damned," Curly whispers. He shakes his head and wonders what Ringo is up to. "Just forget about her," Curly whispers. He turns and sees both whores counting the dough Curly threw in the table. He was gazing out the window for a moment and that seemed long enough for both prostitutes to begin flirting with a few other men. Curly sighs and decides to leave.

Whores ain't got no loyalty! Women! All they bring a man is bad luck and a broken heart!

Curly Bill sees Ringo heading to the theater. He chuckles and adjusts his hat. He can't believe after everything that went on the previous day that Johnny would risk his freedom again over you.

The orchestra in the theater begins tuning their instruments when Johnny takes a seat in the front row. He glances around and sees a few men waiting for the rehearsal to start so they can get a glimpse of the beautiful dancers and to see you and hear you sing.

Ringo looks towards the balcony and sees Doc Holliday staring down at him with a death grin. Doc smiles and waves at Ringo, who simply turns away. Johnny's chest grows tight and he does what he can to regain his composure. He fears Doc will follow you out of the theater and get to you first. Or worse, that you will choose Doc as an escort. Johnny looks in his pocket and decides to invite you to a proper supper after your practice. He blows air out of his lungs, crosses his legs and waits for you to enter the stage. He glances over at Doc, who is applauding the dancers. He notices Ringo's stare and lifts his whiskey flask before downing a shot. Ringo tries to ignore the sick dentist, but finds himself unable to maintain his confidence. His heart beats like mad and when he looks up, he sees you sashay to the center of the stage. Doc cheers, whistles and claps. You look over at Doc, but then your eyes focus on none other than Johnny Ringo. Doc's eyes grow cold as they pierce Ringo. Doc can feel his rage swell and he slowly lights a cigarette and blows a funnel of smoke from his mouth which no longer reveals a smile.

While you're belting out the last notes, Ringo once again becomes lost in your gaze. Your soft bossom rests upon the sweetheart shaped neckline and the buttons can barely contain your breasts. Ringo hopes that one or all of those clasps will pop off so he can see your beautiful form. And if any sap head tries anything, the deadliest pistoleer will protect you.

You complete your piece and take a bow. Ringo sees your softness while you slowly bend and he once again wishes those buttons would snap right off.

Doc stands and applauds, waiting for you to notice him. You gaze at the balcony and offer the sick doctor a wave. Then your eyes move back to Ringo, who can't help but smile sheepishly. He tips his hat and your grin shows a strong sense of acceptance.

You walk off the stage and Ringo smiles to himself. He leaves the theater and runs into Holliday by the exit.

"Well, Johnny Ringo. You're not waiting for her, are you?" Doc's face twists into an almost sinister grin. His pale skin is more noticeable in the afternoon sun and his blood shot eyes sink deep into his face.

"Are you?" Ringo inquires.

You emerge and walk towards Ringo.

"Thank you for coming, Johnny!" You beam.

"You were absolutely ravishing!" Doc interjects, taking your hand and kissing it. Doc moves in front of Johnny, blocking the gunfighter from your view. Johnny removes his hat and stands awkwardly.

"Thank you as well," you answer. "Johnny," you begin while stepping away so Doc is no longer standing in front of Ringo.

Ringo stands with his hat in his hands, far too nervous to ask you for supper.

"Well, I guess I'll be seeing you at the performance," your voice is soft. Both men watch you go. Johnny curses Holliday in his mind. He wants to shoot the walking sickness, but won't have another altercation with him.

"Well, afternoon then," Doc comments before tipping his hat and leaving, feeling triumphant that at least interfered with Johnny's plans to secure some time with you.

Ringo watches Doc turn and leave.

Johnny sees you talking with Fred White and his heart lifts. He closely observes your sweetness towards the town Marshall. He notices you hug Fred and wave at him before continuing your walk through town. Johnny walks quickly towards you, following the heavenly scent of your perfume.

Johnny is out of breath when he reaches you as he's not accustomed to running or moving that quickly for a long period of time. He gets control of his breathing and taps you on the shoulder. You turn to look at Ringo, your eyes wide with delight. So much mystery surrounds you, Ringo feels intimidated. Your smile allows for some familiarity and Johnny wonders if you're aware of how many men in Tombstone are looking to secure a courtship with you.

"Oh, hi, Johnny!" You say with delight in your voice.

Ringo tips his hat again and looks into your beautiful eyes, almost becoming lost in them. His heart beats quickly and he strains to catch his breath. He doesn't want you to think he can be out of breath so quickly.

"Hello, YN." Johnny stands before you, waiting for his confidence to return. Your sweet smile puts the pistoleer at ease.

"I was wondering if you'd like to..." Johnny stops and clears his throat, his face to the ground.

"What is it, Johnny?" You ask.

"Well, I was hoping you'd have supper with me." Ringo feels his face grow hot with shyness.

"Oh, Johnny! Why, that would be lovely!"

Ringo beams from ear to ear and can't believe you just accepted his offer. He puts his arm out for you and you take it, allowing him to escort you.

I'm the distance, Doc watches, while throwing a freshly lit cigarette on the ground. "Ringo. You're as good as dead," the sick doctor whispers. His mouth falls open when he sees you smiling up at Johnny.

Johnny Ringo escorts you a restaurant. He pulls out the chair like the gentleman he is and then moves his manly form into the other chair.

He removes his hat and places it on the extra chair and unbuttons his jacket.

You look at the menu and Ringo hopes he can impress you by ordering for you so he inquires about your tastes.

"So, did your mama ever cook anything real special you remember?" Ringo asks, opening a conversation.

"Oh yes! Chicken and dumplings." You smile.

Ringo laughs. "That was my favorite! My mother made the best chicken and dumplings I ever ate. I asked her to cook them everyday!"

"Me too," you laugh. "But she said chicken and dumplings was for Sunday." You glance around the room, recalling your childhood.

Johnny shakes his head and begins giggling, in spite of himself. The wonderous feelings you stir within him are so undeniable, Johnny knows that in that instant that he is absolutely in love with you.

Outside, Doc can see you and Ringo through a small window. He walks slowly past the eatery, calculating the vengence he would carry out against Ringo for daring to ask you to take up supper with him. He stifles his cough and lights up a cigarette. His lungs burn from the smoke and he slowly exhales, cusring his relentless disease. He heads to Silver Flask saloon and begins ordering whiskey while he eyes the tables where players tried their luck at various card games. Doc always preferred poker because he felt he could win easier and with Kate at his side and with his steady hands, he could cheat the quickest of players. He looks around and wonders where Kate could be. She was not at the hotel earlier and he had not seen her around, flashing her curves and showing off her merchandise. Doc coughs and downs his drink. He imagines seeing Ringo walking down the street and falling over dead when Doc unloads his ivory handled pistol into the gunfighter. Doc smiles to himself as he fantasies about how you would thank the old dentist for saving you from the volitile Ringo who you secretly feared. And how you may anger Ringo if you refused his advances. Then Doc could tell you of the horrific deeds Johnny was involved in and that in fact, Ringo probably killed more men than all his cowboys and that the slightest provocation would stir such anger in the old cowboy that he would cut a man in half for it and experience no remorse for it. On the other hand, Doc wonders what you and Johnny will talk about and if you let him court you.

I cannot let that happen! Doc rages in his mind. If I can't have her, that deadly pistoleer sure as hell won't either!

Back in the restaurant, the waiter comes to take your order.

"I think we'll both get chicken and dumplings," Ringo smiles.

With trembling hands, the waiter takes your orders. He glances at Johnny, who understands right away that the waiter is clearly fearful about serving the gunman. He also cannot understand why you're sitting with a man with such a fierce reputation or why no one has told you how dangerous Ringo is. He could steal you and keep you all to himself.

You and Ringo talk of your lives before the war; you are a bit younger than Johnny, but you discuss how the war caused your family to relocate and when your father died, your mother used her talent for singing to provide for her children. You inherited your mothers's voice and ever since you were old enough, you've traveled with theater groups, singing to lonely men who wandered from cowtown to boomtown, looking for some comfort or at least a taste of home sweet home. And you suceeded in developing a reputation for having a voice like no other; a powerful sonorous wonder with a strong vocal range. Now, Johnny sits across from you, admiring the stories you share with him about your life. Your mother's profession as an entertainer allowed you to see so much of the country; your mother perfromed in New York City and Chicago and when townsfolk knew she was singing, they waited in line to see her beauty and hear her unforgettable voice; the voice she passed on to you.

Ringo didn't travel much except when he and his family moved to San Jose from Texas. However, it was on that trip that Ringo's father shot himself through the head while taking a shotgun off the wagon. Ringo can never forget the loud boom of the shotgun and the spray of blood and brains that splashed the wagon and Johnny's mother who was standing right there. For years, Ringo had convinced himself that his father committed suicide; that his life was so unbearable and that he would never find the love he was looking for. Ringo felt his mother was lonely before her husband died and although she never lost her kindness, Johnny always knew she was the saddest women he had ever known.

Ringo looks into your eyes and desires to take your hands and kiss them, but decides against it, simply enjoying his incredible luck.

The waiter, who seems less than enthusiastic about serving a cowboy, brings two steaming plates of chicken and dumplings smothered in gravy.

"Looks so wonderful!" You claim, clapping your hands together. "Let's eat!' Your smile brightens the room.

The nervous waiter asks if you need anything else. You shake your head, place your napkin on your lap and take your knife and fork. Johnny appreciates your manners as most of the women he knew possessed very little or none, eating with their hands.

The food tastes delicious and you and Johnny share a chuckle while enjoying your supper. He takes a piece of bread and butters it, ready to take a bite and then puts it on your plate. He smiles at you with happiness he cannot recall from his past. He cannot remember the last time he felt so peaceful and content. The warm dumplings mixed with gravy and well seasoned chicken moves through your mouth like a dance of wonder. You pause to wipe your mouth and take a sip of wine. Johnny notices how you like to eat slowly so you can enjoy each bite.

"It's so delicious!" You declare, taking your napkin and wiping your beautiful mouth. Johnny can't help but chuckle at your sweetness.

"You're very beautiful," Johnny says, feeling his neck and face grow hot with shyness.

"And you're a handsome man, Johnny!" You respond.

Johnny looks at his almost empty plate and then back at you. He finds himself at a loss for words.

"Well, I uh...would you like dessert?" Ringo finally manages to say.

"Of course!" You answer, eyeing the tray of desserts that sits near your table.

************************************************************************

Doc Holliday sits in the Silver Nugget Saloon, sipping whiskey and staring into his glass while slowly swirling the liquid while moving the glass in a circular, almost methodical manner. He takes another shot, takes a breath and pours another.

From the moment he met Ringo, Doc hated the younger gunfighter. Doc was not a mad who let the law stand in his way just like the Cowboys, but seemed to have such disdain for the unsophisicated bunch. Not to mention that the Cowboys had it in for the Earps and Doc and Wyatt had a relationship where neither one would turn on the other. They expressed loyalty to each other; Doc looked out for Wyatt and Wyatt often looked the other way while Doc cheated patrons during poker games. Morgan and Virgil seemed less enthusiastic regarding the unbreakable bond between Doc and Wyatt. They viewed Doc as trouble; someone who cost them their political ambitions. With Doc in the picture, Wyatt's climb up the social latter moved slower and that meant it moved slower for them.

Now Doc sits in a saloon by himself, downing shots, seething about what you and Ringo are doing together.

"That lying scum," Doc whispers, while his lips rest on the edge of the glass. "No good Johnny Ringo, a lost soul who serves no purpose other than to lie, kill and steal." Doc chuckles to himself as he has done his fair share of cheating and killing. To lose to Ringo would be more than Doc could bear; he's a man who hates losing. Doc imagines you sitting near him while he dazzles you with stories of his upbrining; living in Georgia on a lush plantation, dreaming of his future as a dentist, serving the elite community. And he did build a successful practice; so much that he could afford to work three days a week.

"I am a Southern gentleman," he recalls telling one of his patients. "And Southern gentleman are lazy so I do not wish to break a long standing tradition by working too much."

Then the war hit.

Moving from a prestigious profession to a gunighting gambler after he learned of his tuburclosis; a diagnonis that would change the entire direction of his life. With a strong death wish and everything he adored gone, Doc turned to a vicious gunslinger, bitter with rage. He thinks of Ringo and how the two are more alike than different. Ringo suffered in the soul while Doc suffered in the body. There were moments when Doc felt unbelievably close to Ringo as he often pondered that the two had more in common than had differences. Perhaps that triggered their hatred for each other. Or that Doc was the refined Ringo and Ringo was who Doc was behind the silk cravats and fancy language.

Doc sighs and lights up a cigarette. He can hear the familiar voice of his companion, Kate Elder. She stomped up the stairs of the saloon and pushed her way through the batwings. Doc smiles to himself and ignores her desire to get his attention. Kate moved her way through the saloon to the table where Doc sat.

"Oh how i wish they hung you in Liberty!" She howled. A few patrons laughed while others sneered at the dueling couple.

"Why, Kate. What a pleasant surprise," Doc grunts. "To what do I owe the pleasure of your presence. Doc waves his hand through the air as if shooing a fly away.

"Don't give me that! I know what happend between you and Johnny!"

"Kate, why would you bother yourself with someone like Ringo? You know I cannot stand that man."

"You want her?" Kate demands. "You were fighting with Johnny over her, werent you?"

Doc adjusts himself and straightens his back. He stares into the mouth of his glass before taking another sip. "Why don't you have a seat, my dear and we can talk about this like respectable persons."

Kate scoffs at Doc, her arms folded. She sat down and looked directly at her sick companion.

"I want you to stay away from her!" Kate bellows, angrily. She takes the bottle of whiskey and downs a shot without using a glass.

"You were always uncivilized," Doc mocks Kate.

Kate wipes her mouth and stands before Doc, her lovely bossom pressing against her dress. Doc felt tempted; the comfort of a woman was like nothing else. And it didn't seem to matter where she came from or if her looks were less than appealing; a soft body next to him felt better than the cold of lonliness and horror of his sickness. His lungs burned and his throat felt dry, even swallowing caused great pain. He made a bet with himself years ago that he would die from being shot to death before he died of his relentless disease.

"And you! Just look at yourself!"

It was not uncommon for Kate to create a scene in public and Doc brushed off his embaressment by holding up his glass and nodding to the annoyed patrons. Doc knew she was fuming over you although she had her own share of encounters with other men. But in the end, she did not want Doc leaving her for another woman. She already hated being second to Wyatt Earp.

"You're wasting away to nothing! She wouldn't want you anyway!" Kate shouts before exiting through the batwings and hurrying down the stairs.

Doc watches her leave and continues drowning his anger in whiskey. Although he already sucked back enough to cause most men to fall over, Doc could handle his alcohol like no one Wyatt had ever known. Even after drinking for several hours, he could still deal and play cards with steady hands. The delicate and long hands of a dentist.

Doc sighs and stares at the bottom of his glass as if searching for something. He mumbles to himself and begins thinking about you taking up supper with Johnny Ringo. Doc scoffs while he pours himself another drink and lights up a cigarette, completely unaffected by the poisons he fed his body. He would rather die of drunkeness than lonlieness. He wonders how Ringo is trying to impress you. He laughs to himself when he thinks about Johnny telling you how he steals cows or that he robbed a number of stage coaches and would cut a man in half over the slightest provocation. However, Doc knew Ringo probably possessed a softer side the same as Doc, who was more misunderstood than anything else. Doc could tell by watching Johnny Ringo that the Shakespearean quoting gunfighter was a man scarred; just like Doc, he had dreams before the war hit and the fighting and loss of their rights and land drove them to kill. He almost felt pity for Ringo, but his hatred superceded all other emotions regarding the younger pistoleer.

************************************************************************

You and Ringo talk while enjoying your meals together. Johnny feels a strong sense of peace and hopes he can delight in more encounters like this. He hopes you decide to stay a bit longer and he tells himself he will follow you around the country just to be with you.

"Would you like some dessert?" Johnny asks, wiping his mouth with the cloth napkin. You glance at him and smile and then look down at your plate.

"Yes," you answer. "I've been looking at the tray of desserts!"

RIngo grins at thinks you're adorable. "Chocolate cake?"

Your eyes grow wide with wonder and you nod and chuckle, covering your mouth out of shyness.

How can anyone with a voice like that be shy? RIngo reflects.

The nervous waiter returns to gather your plates and Johnny orders two slices of chocolate cake for the both of you. When the waiter returns with your cake, you ask for coffee with cream and sugar. The waiter returns with your coffee. Johnny watches you while you pour the sweet cream into your coffee. He feels his heart sink when he remembers that you and Doc went to the bakery together. He sighs and finishes up his dessert. He puts some money on the table and the waiter grabs it with his greedy fingers. Ringo takes your hand and hlps you out of your chair. The short train on your dress crinkles while you walk together.

Doc down one more shot and he cannot remember the last time he felt so drunk. He could usually hold his liquor better than anyone. He could suck back enough booze to kill a horse and still fire his pistol with absolute precision. But his head keeps spinning and he stumbles to the batwings.

"Ringo!" Doc shouts.

Ringo and you look at each other. Johnny's heart sinks; he just had a splendid time with you and fears Doc will humiliate him right in front of you or worse-shoot him dead right there.

"Who is that?" You ponder.

Ringo takes his hat off and shakes his head. He can see Doc stumbling towards him, his pistol drawn. In Doc's drunkeness, he pulls his pistol and fires it into the sky. He twirls his gun and fires again, townsfolk dash out of the way and some shop owners close their doors. A bullet goes whizzing past your head, barely missing you. RIngo pulls you towards the sidewalk.

"There you are, Ringo!" Doc shouts in rage.

RIngo stands to face his adversary. "Not know, Holliday!" Ringo barks.

"Now is as good a time as any," Doc answers, raising his pistol to meet RIngo's head.

"No!" You scream, moving to push Johnny out the way. Doc fires his gun again. You fall backwards, shouting, "Oh no! NO!" Blood gushes from your chest where Doc's bullet landed.

Ringo sinks to his knees and pulls your body up off the ground. People come running to see the commotion. Doc falls backwards, stumbling and losing his balance. He moves in a slow, dream like state, waiting to wake up from this nightmare.

"Johnny," you whisper, grabbing at your chest. The piercing pain of the bullet fills you with an agony you never experienced before; you feel your body grow so cold and it seems like millions of needles are stabbing at your chest. Tears fall from your eyes.

"No, please!: Ringo screams, holding you.

"You goddamn lunger!" Ringo fires at Doc, who is slowly trying to regain his balance. Doc looks at his gun and his mouth falls open in shock. People gather around you and they cannot believe that Doc Holliday shot you in a fit of jealous rage.

RIngo begins to weep, holding you. He just enjoyed the most delightful moment with you and now is holding your almost lifeless body in his arms. He rocks back and fourth while holding you, burying his face in your chest. He can feel your hand touch his face and he can feel the life slowly drain from your body.

"NO! NO!" Ringo screams, his face looking up the sky.

"The singer!" One woman says. "Doc Holliday shot her!" She looks at Doc and points. "You killed her! It was him!"

Doc moves backwards slowly. If he had killed Johnny Ringo, nobody would have cared except a bunch of smelly cowboys.

"Good riddance," would have been the reaction from most of the townspeople. And Doc could ride out with Kate and they could head to Kansas and start over. But he didn't shoot Ringo, he shot you instead.

"Johnny..." You whisper before slipping into death, one last tear falls from your lifeless eyes and Johnny closes them, unable to look at them.

Benson "Stiches" Jones comes running from his small medical office and kneels next t your lifeless body.

"What happened? He asks, his eyes full of sadness. "The singer! Oh, God no!"

"It was Doc Holliday," Ringo grunts, slowly standing. "You damn son of a bitch! You just couldn't leave her alone!" Ringo shouts while tears fall from his expressive eyes. "You killed her!"

Ringo sinks to his knees again. "NO! Not the most beautiful flower in Arizona!"

Doc shakes his head. "Ringo, you no good rustler! If she hadn't been with you, she'd be alive now. You had wishful thinking and you thought you-,"

"Go to hell, you damn lunger! You killed her!"

Curly Bill and the Clantons come running to see about the commotion.

"No, no! Not her! Not YN!" Curly shouts. He takes his hat off and looks at Holliday.

"What happened, lunger?" Curly bellows, starting Doc down.

"Ringo had to go and escort this lovely lady and put her in the line of fire." Doc answers, his eyes growing wet with tears.

"He killed her," Ringo shouts again, standing to face Doc. "You no good cheating, lying son of a bitch!" Ringo noves to push Holliday and start a street brawl, but Curly and Billy Clanton grab his arms.

"No, Johnny! No!" Curly begs. "Don't waste your time!"

Curly Bill kneels next to you lifeless body. He strokes your cheek and can feel his chest tighten with rage. To his surprise, he begins crying uncontrollably. He removes his hat and covers his eyes with his arm.

Doc moves to leave while the Earp brothers show up on the scene.

"Arrest that bastard!" Curly Bill demands. "That lunger pal of yours shot YN!"

Wyatt stops and stares at your body. "Doc!" Wyatt begins.

"She was with Ringo, Wyatt. We all saw this coming," Doc answers, still looking refined.

"You shot her?" Wyatt inquires, looking at the Cowboys, who are all sucking back their tears and their rage.

"I was aiming for Ringo!" Doc declares in a drunken voice

"Doc!" Wyatt shouts again. Wyatt knew he could not help Doc out of this. If Wyatt arrested the cowboy, but let Doc go on his way, he would never reach his political ambitions. As much as Doc means to Wyatt, this was the last straw for the lawman. He could no longer have a friendship with the sick dentist. Wyatt curses under his breath.

"I told both you boys to stay away from her!" Wyatt barks.

Ringo takes your body and carries you to the Benson's medical office. "We will take care of her funeral," Ringo whispers.

"That's right," Curly growls at Wyatt and Doc. "Me and my boys will make sure she has a proper burial. And it's me and my boys! Not you, Wyatt or that lunger!"

Curly follows Ringo to the medical office.

"Doc," Wyatt begins, taking off his hat for a moment. "I gotta take you in. You know that."

"Arrest him? Let's lynch that son of a bitch!" A man stumbles forward. "He killed the singer right here! Murdered! Let's get that bastard!"

A small group of miners begins circling around Wyatt and Doc. Wyatt pulls his gun and shouts, "Back off! He's going to jail to await a trial. There's not going to be a lynching today or any other day!"

Some of the miners back away. Virgil and Morgan arrive.

"There is no need for such a scene, gentleman. I am aware of my terrible trangression and I will follow the due process of the law. You can escort me to the jail where I will await my fair trial." Doc follows Wyatt to the jail.

"We need some men to guard this place," Wyatt suggests. "Those miners aren't giving up. I've seen this all before."

"Wyatt," Morgan grunts. "He could hang for this. We could if we don't follow through. People around here want justice for her and we can't let Doc go. It will make us look like we don't know what we're doing."

Wyatt nods slowly while he secures the jail door and locks Doc in.

"Doc," my hands are tied here. I don't think I can help you out of this one."

Doc begins sobbing, unable to control his intense burst of emotion. He runs his hands though his hair and coughs through his tears.

"I never thought I would die like this," Doc sobs, wiping his eyes. "I'll swing if that's what I have to do. I am a Southern gentleman and I will not shirk my obligations." Doc dries his bloodshot eyes and the Earp brothers exchange looks bordering on disgust and pity. They look at each other and can still hear the cries of people outside, protesting Doc's arrest.

Wyatt blows air out of his lungs and holds back his own temptation to weep. They never entertained the idea that the rage between Ringo and Doc would evolve into a deadly match. A twisted game of jealousy and rivalry all over a beautiful woman. Towns like Tombstone could slowly turn to ghost towns due to a lack of booze or people to serve it and the rise of the railroads certainly wouldn't help especially since some railroads did not stop near the town. Town like Tombstone relied on the many amenities businessess provided to keep the town traffic high. With the rise of a school and some local social clubs, some hope still lingered that the town would eventually become a sophisicated tourist attraction. However, a scandal such as this could create serious obstacles.

"You allow those reprobates to lynch me, Wyatt," Doc groans while holding his head with his hands. "I certainly do not deserve my freedom after what I have done to that beautiful songbird. I can't imagine looking at anyone in the eye again." Doc begins to weep again.

"I swear that I have never hated another human more than Johnny Ringo. I do declare I wish it was him lying in that medical office."

Doc sighs while his lips tremble with devastation. "Fermented lots, my friends," Doc says softly while tears stream down his pale face. "I could use some and a smoke if you don't mind, gentleman."

Wyatt nods and leaves to purchase a bottle of whiskey and some cigarettes for his friend. It may be the only kind gesture Wyatt will be able to provide for his friend. While walking to the Oriental, several townspeople gather around Wyatt.

"Is it true that YN was shot by Doc Holliday?" One woman asked, holding a young child.

Wyatt moved past the woman, trying to avoid the others that seemed to multiply with each step.

"Are you going to hang that killer!" Another voice shouts.

"Where is the justice for YN?" Wyatt hears before walking up the steps. With each movement he makes, he grows more weary. He avoids the stares from people around him.

"Just give me a bottle, Milt," Wyatt grumbles. Without saying a word, Milt uncorks a bottle and hands it to Wyatt.

Wyatt leaves and returns to the jail to give Doc the liquor. Although recovering from his drunkeness, Doc down a few shots before replacing the cork. "I hope I die right here, tonight," Doc whispers.

Johnny Ringo looks down at your body and waits for you to gasp for air and come to life. But with each passing moment, your body remains still and lifeless. Curly sobs quietly.

Stitches enters the room, holding a large doctor's bag.

"A beauty in life and in death. Stitches rolls up his sleeves and washes his hands in the basin that lazes near where your body lies.

"I've seen a lot. I'm sure you boys have too, being in the war and all. But when this happens, well, I just don't understand."

Ringo takes your hand and kisses it, noticing the coldness coming from your motionless body.

Stitches takes his glasses off and cleans them with the handkerchief he removes from his front pocket. He mops his face with the handkerchief and stuffs it back in his pocket, folds his arms and stands with his body hunched over. He shakes his head.

"I'm awful sorry, boys. Seen a lot. I was a doc in the war. I got used to seeing wounded soldiers after a while. Men bleeding out or missing a limb, hollering for their mamas."

Stitches puts his glasses back on, but remains in the same position. "This seems all too tragic. Like a damn play you just wish would end."

"We're taking care of everything," Curly Bill manages to say in a soft whisper, trying to hide his crying.

Stitches nods and puts his hands on his waist. "My wife will do most of the work when I'm done."

"She ain't getting buried in Booth Hill!" Curly growls. "My boys will make sure she's buried proper and not with a bunch of outlaws and bad types! They ain't good enough to share dirt with her!"

Stitches nods again.

"It's going to be a lovely spot for her!" Curly shouts through his tears. We'll take care of that. We need to make arrangements too."

Stitches stands up straight. He adjusts his glasses. "Miller's gone home for the day. Let's talk tomorrow. No need to do any more today. You boys should get some rest. I'll take good care of YN."

Ringo kisses your dead lips and bolts out the door. He staggers around town, people moving out of his way.

"What are y'all looking at!?" Ringo demands, tears streaming down his face. He dizzily moves about. The restaurant you and Johnny enjoyed dinner together and he falls to his knees, weeping in his hands. Townspeople turn away in fear.

Curly Bill runs out of the office.

"Johnny!" He howls.

"No! No!" Ringo shouts while stumbling around in desperate confusion. He looks at the sky.

"You take everyone I love!" Johnny yells, drawing and pointing his gun at the scattered clouds that move in jagged directions.

"Johnny!" Curly runs after his friend.

"No! Get away from me!" Johnny pulls his pistol on Curly. "I'll never have anything to live for again!"

Curly Bill moves to grab Ringo and take him back to camp, but Johnny pulls away so violently, Curly's eyes grow wide with confusion.

"YN!" Ringo bellows while running out of town on foot. He stumbles and falls and slowly gets up. Johnny continues running out of town, sobbing and breathing heavily.

Curly runs to the livery and gets his horse. He bolts after Johnny. He knows that if Ringo is on foot, he could find himself in danger.

"Ringo!" Culry Bill howls, reaching his friend. Curly's horse snorts and begins trotting near Johnny, who falls to his knees and begins vomiting. He wipes his mouth and slowly rises to his feet, bent over, holding his knees.

"Just leave me alone, Bill!" Johnny grunts, standing, his eyes barely open.

"Juanito, don't do this. YN wouldn't want to see you like this!"

"YN!" Ringo screams, staring at the empty sky. He tries to catch his racing breath. Johnny stumbles about, causing Curly is to quickly dismount. In all of Johnny's dark and morose moments, he never saw him like this and Curly worried this would push Johnny to a place he would never return from.

"I love her!" Ringo shouts, covering his eyes. "I have nothing left! There is nothing left!"

Curly pulls Johnny by the shoulders and holds him up straight. "Johnny! Listen to me! Get a hold of yourself, son!"

Johnny breaths heavily and stands up to face Curly, who's eyes are flooded with tears. Johnny nods slowly.

"Jesus, Bill," he whispers. "I need to dig her grave. I need to do that. I have to do that for her." Curly agrees by nodding his head. "That's right, Ringo. We'll do that. And we'll go to Messico and put this all behind us!"

"I can't forget her!" Johnny barks.

Curly puts his hands up. "Aw, come on, son! I didn't mean it like. One or two more rustling jobs and we can quit everything for a while!"

"I need to sleep...I just need to sleep," Johnny sighs.

"Come on, boy!" Curly demands. The two cowboys mount the horse and ride back to the livery to retrive Johnny's horse.

The stable kid comes out with his hands up. "Everything alright, Curly Bill? You rode off real quick there!" He brings Johnny's saddled gelding over. Johnny checks the cinch and mounts his animal.

Curly tips the stable kid. "No need to worry yourself, boy."

"Hey, Curly. Is it true Doc Holliday shot the singer? Killed her I heard!" The kid takes his hat off and wipes the sweat off his brow. "That sure is awful." He shakes his head before putting his hat back on.

He watches Curly Bill and Ringo ride out. When they return to camp, they dismount and avoid the whispers and stares from the other boys. The quiet that settled over the area left a chill that seemed to grow colder with each passing hour.

Ringo and Curly both fell asleep before removing their boots.

The other cowboys look at each while they sit around the campfire, passing whiskey around or taking sips from their flasks.

"Can't believe that little doll is gone," Stillwell remarks. He takes his knife and starts sharpening it. "Ringo was so over head and ears, even Curly couldn't believe it."

"That son of a bitch lunger," Ike Clanton grunt while tabacco juice squirted from his mouth. "Now I got another reason to want to kill that damn Holliday. Then I'll move on to them Earps. I'm gonna kill em all!"

"You ain't going up against the Earps, Ike!"

Ike pulls his pistol and fires three shots before stumbling. "Self righteous sons of bitches!"

Billy Clanton flips his Bowie knife before replacing it and starts speaking, not looking up.

"You ain't seen enough blood for one day, Ike? Jesus."

"We're not lettin' them damn Earps or Doc get away with this!"

"Damn chucklehead!" Billy grunts. "Don't go running your damn pie hole, Ike."

"I'm gonna start with that damn Holliday! We should go into town now and lynch that no good lunger!"

"We ain't doin anything now, Ike!" Stillwell agrees.

"Oh fine then! After she's buried, the first thing I'm doing is going after them damn brothers! They put Ringo in jail over nothing!" Ike howls.

"Curly and Ringo just want to keep her out of Boot Hill and I don't blame them," Stillwell continues. "The Earps ain't sticking around here, I can tell you that! After what Doc did to that song bird..." Stillwell shakes his head. "You're corned, Ike. Go sleep it off!"

Silence slowly settles throughout the camp while the boys prepare to sleep. A warm breeze, mixed with the stink of horse shit and rot gut permeates the air. The sounds of cowboys snoring replaces the songs of the evening birds and adds to the sadness of it all.'

RIngo falls into a deep sleep and his dreams bring him no peace. He tosses and turns while he relives the moments leading up to your death. He can see your face in his mind, surrounded by an almost blinding light. Your hair flows down your back and you remove your dress to show your pure and naked body. Johnny runs to you and you disappear into the light. You then reappear, covered in blood and grasping your chest, screaming his name.

"YN!" Ringo shouts before jolting awake. He looks around and then feels his heart swell with sorrow. His eyes grow wet with tears and his exhaustion takes over his body and he falls back to sleep.

Back in town, a group of settlers stands outside the jail, shouting and demaning Doc so they can lynch him. A few people have torches lit and are on horseback while others stand around the jail.

Wyatt and his brothers sit around a table at Wyatt's cabin.

Morgan looks out the window, while holding a cup of cold coffee.

"It's getting out of hand, Wyatt. They're not letting this go."

Wyatt sighs heavily and rubs his tired eyes with this palms. He stands and stretches his back before heading to the window.

"We've got a few good men guarding now," Wyatt remarks, sipping his coffee. "At least those settlers aren't armed. But the guards are."

Virgil sits at the table with his arms crossed and leans back in his chair.

"I knew it was a mistake coming here," he grunts.

Wyatt turns and looks at Virgil with disdain.

"This ain't my doing!" Wyatt snaps.

"You wanted that bastard here. I've told you, Wyatt. Sooner or later Doc is going to make somuch trouble for you, you'll never get out from under it."

"All I wanted was for us to be a family!" Wyatt shouts, which causes Morgan and Virgil to share a glance. They know their future of owning their own casinos or moving up the political latter seem distant dreams that cannot come to fruition.

"We came here to get rich, Wyatt," Morgan answers. "You told us we were going to make our fortune here, remember?"

"I didn't know Doc was going to be here!" Wyatt barks at Morgan. Virgil remains quiet and motionless.

"You knew he'd follow you, Wyatt," Virgil growls. "I understand loyalty, but this isn't the first time Doc has made trouble for us! We should have locked that son of a bitch up when we did Ringo! But you are always putting Doc ahead of everything! He ain't even your brother, but you got blood on your hands with this one!" Virgil stands and faces Wyatt, who refuses to back down.

Morgan comes in between them. "Come on now, Virg," Morgan says.

Virgil pulls away from Morgan and backs away, still staring Wyatt down.

"What now, Wyatt?" Virgil demands. "We can't show our faces around here! Especially if we don't do something about Doc!"

Wyatt turns away and then moves back to face Virgil. "You want me to let those thugs hang Doc now and turn this town into a shooting gallery?" Wyatt snaps.

"These people won't be satisfied lessen they know Doc is dead or rotting in a jail somewhere!"

"I already got a plan, Virg!"

"You're gonna let that bastard go!" Virgil demands.

Wyatt shakes his head while lowering it. "I can take him to Tuscon for trial or to at least satisfy everyone around here. Let people around here know he can't get a fair trial here!" "A fair trial?" Virgil groans. "He shot her in cold blood, Wyatt. What's going to happen at trial? You know they'll hang him for this!"

"Nobody's hanging!" Wyatt shouts, taking one last sip of coffee.

"We can't stay in Tombstone, Wyatt," Morgan interjects. You know that." Morgan puts his hands on his hips, looks to the floor and shakes his head. "Those damn cowboys..."

"And that damn Doc Holliday!" Virgil errupts. He stands before Wyatt and Morgan, waving his finger at them. "I told you it was a bad idea to pal around with him. He never had any regard for the law!"

"Ok, fine, Virg!" Wyatt barks back. "This is all Doc's fault? Is that what you're saying? Or this is all my doing because I didn't arrest Doc when Ringo fired shots at him?"

"Damn right!" Virgil responds, anger in his eyes. "I have always backed you, Wyatt. But you knew how I felt about having Doc around." Wyatt looks at his brothers with confusion. "I should have put both of them in jail the other night? Not just Ringo?"

"You didn't want to put Doc away," Virgil protests.

Morgan takes his hat off and clears his throat. "What purpose does this serve now?" He groans. "She's gone and Doc is as good as dead. We just need to pull up stakes and move on, Wyatt. Put this all behind us and stop being damn law men. Even if it's the only thing we're any good at."

"We were going to make our furtune, right, Wyatt?" Virgil shouts while moving to the door.

"Virg!" Wyatt yells after Virgil. Morgan takes Wyatt's arm.

"No more fighting, Wyatt. That's why we're in this mess. Doc is your friend." Morgan puts his hat back on and slowly walks to the door, leaving Wyatt there. Wyatt sits back down, shakes his head and lets out a long sigh. He stands and heads to the exit and then to the jail to see Doc.

"Move!" Wyatt shouts at the small crowd that surrounds the jail. "Get back or I'll arrest you or worse! Now get out of my way!" "We want that friend of yours to swing!" One of them shouts.

"He'll get a trial, same as any of you!" Wyatt snaps. The crowd parts and Wyatt heads indoors.

"Wyatt," Doc grumbles, his bloodshot eyes look up at Wyatt and Wyatt can't tell if Doc was coughing or crying. Or both.

"Doc," Wyatt begins. "I need to tell you this is not going to end well for anyone. Including Ringo."

Doc takes the half bottle of whiskey that sits on the floor and holds it towards Wyatt as an invitation for a sip. Wyatt shakes his head.

"Oh, I know, my friend. Neither Ringo nor myself will ever have the rare opportunity to hear that songbird or ever see her again." Tears begin falling from Doc's eyes. "I swear on my life, Wyatt. I swear on my poor soul that I never, ever intended to harm that..." Doc's voice cracks and he takes a sip of whiskey. "I only wanted that scoundrel out of the way. How selfish of me. As a southern gentleman, it is my profound duty to protect and honor women." He wipes his eyes with a handkercheif and downs another shot before slapping the cork back on.

"I know, Doc. You and Ringo..." Wyatt's voice is just above a whisper.

"I am sure she is singing in the chorus of Heaven along with the other angels," Doc remarks, playing with the label on the whiskey. "I keep anticipating a release from slumber and that I'll wake up next to Kate and this entire event is all a dream."

Wyatt lowers his head.

"And now, I don't care if she did go with Ringo. At least she'd be alive and there would be a chance for me to take her away from him. To wait for her to grow tiresome with such a chaotic association." Doc smiles through his tears.

"Doc, listen to me."

"Just let that crowd have their way with me...I don't deserve a gentleman's death and well, I always calculated I would die with my boots on." Doc sucks back his tears and forces a smile.

"Doc. I am taking you to Tuscon and I'm going to tell everyone you'll stand trial there." Wyatt fumbles with the keys. "And then you're getting on the train and you're leaving Arizona and you will not return. That is is the best I can do for you."

"And through it all, you still want to help. I do not wish to die in a hospital bed somewhere. I will go rightly, Wyatt. I'll step outside and throw up my surrender. It is time for me to meet my maker. We have much to discuss." Doc takes a deep breath.

"Doc, I'm taking you to Tucson. Be ready tonight."

"All those poor rebels singing how they don't need no pardon for anything they've done." Doc begins to laugh and sob almost uncontrollably.

"I am going to start arresting the mob outside and then I'll be taking you to the stage. You need to leave Arizona and you need to be someone else. That's the best it is going to get."

Doc waves his hand at Wyatt as if shooing a fly away. "Of course. A second chance. She didn't get one, did she? No, I will die by the noose and prove that I do indeed deserve it." "Doc, I am offering you a chance to avoid that. You need to take my offer and leave!"

"I see you're not leaving me a choice." Doc nods slowly. "Either way, I will never look upon her face again." Doc lowers his head and weeps as Wyatt stands and heads for the exit.

"When are you gonna hang that bastard?" A miner demands.

"He's not hanging. He's going to stand trial in Tucson," Wyatt responds.

#tombstone movie #doc holliday tombstone #Val Kilmer Doc Holliday #Tombstone 1993 #Curly Bill Brocious #Johnny Ringo #tombstone cowboys #curly bill brocius #Ringo and Holliday make a bet #doc holliday romantic rivalry

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