Free Storm to the Past: A Time Travel Western by Dennis Gager Page A

and check on Nate.”
    “I already checked and he is up and ready to go. Doc has told him to take it easy. I also dropped off some food for him as well.”
    “I’m glad he’s doing better,” Adam said. “Thank God.”
    “Let’s eat,” Abagail said. “Before it gets cold.”
    When they were finished with the meal, Abagail said, “I better go home and get the food ready for the dance tonight. I know the Wesley’s will need help.”
    “I’ll go with you, Abagail,” Owen said. “We’ll see you later, Adam.”
    “See you later.”
    After Abagail and Owen left, Adam headed to the doctor’s office. He opened the door and heard Nate arguing with the doctor.
    “I said, I’m leaving. I feel fine.”
    “Doc,” Adam said. “I’ll keep an eye on him.”
    “Okay, fine, but don’t do anything too stressful,” the doctor told them. “You need rest.”
    “I promise, Doc,” Nate told him.
    “Let’s get you out of here,” Adam said to Nate.
    “Can you help me put my boots on? I can’t bend over too good. I guess that happens when you get your butt kicked and jump through a glass window and whatever I landed on.”
    “Were you able to get a look at them?”
    “It was too dark, but I can guess who sent them.”
    “I can too.”
    “I’m worried for you Man. I’m leaving and you’ll be all alone. Come with me, please?”
    “I can’t go with you. My place is here. I’ll sort all this out. But right now let’s get you over to the office, so you can rest.”
    “You talked me into it, but later on I’m going with you to that barn dance, so I can tell everyone goodbye.”
    “You sure you feel up to it?”
    “Absolutely. Now let’s get to the office. I need to sit down. My back is hurting.”
    Nate limped, but made it across the street to the office. Adam pulled out a chair for him and Nate sat down and put his feet up on the desk.
    “Oh yeah. That feels much better.”
    “Can I get you anything?”
    “I’m fine. You need to relax. That’s what I’m going to do. Just relax here for a minute and catch my breath.”
    Adam looked out the window and when he turned back Nate had dozed off. 
    “You rest my friend and feel better. I’ll be right back.”
    Adam saw Mayor Jonathan walking across street toward him.
    “Good morning, Mayor.”
    “Good morning, Adam. How’s Nate doing?”
    “He will be okay, just a little sore. He’s taking a nap inside. I thought I’d stretch my legs. Give him a chance to sleep.”
    “You do realize what happened last night wasn’t your fault? You’ve been doing a great job. People aren’t afraid to walk outside. Thanks to you.” 
    “I know it’s not my fault, but I’m still upset. Liam did it. I know he did.”
    “Yes, but can you prove it?”
    “No, I can’t prove it, but I will get him one way or another. He will answer for his crimes.”
    “Be careful. I’m afraid you’re heading for a showdown and you don’t carry a gun. I’m afraid it won’t go good for you.”
    “I can take care of myself. It’ll be alright.”
    “Will you be at the dance today?”
    “I’ll be there. Nate wants to go and say goodbye to everyone.”
    “Nate’s leaving? I didn’t know that.”
    “Yes. He wants to go home.”
    “He will be missed. He seems like a nice guy. Well, I better be going. I’ve got a lot to get done before tonight.”
    Adam went back inside and Nate was walking around.
    “How are you feeling?”
    “Better, but whatever the doctor gave me has worn off.”
    “You do seem to be getting around a little better.”
    “I’m bruised, but I’ll mend.”
    Adam saw Nate rub his neck and wrist.
    “I’m sorry this happened to you, Nate.”
    “Not your fault. What time are you going to get ready for the dance?”
    “Abagail sent some clothes for us. We can get dressed now if you want to.”
    “Abagail has good taste in women’s clothing. Bad taste in men’s clothes. Laughing. “I’m just joking. I’m happy you two found each