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The guard was already walking toward the doctor’s office with the wounded driver in his arms.

As the stage office clerk opened the coach door, Molly caught sight of three tall figures escorting a group of bound men down the street. The Beckett brothers, she realized, were leading the outlaws to jail.

Elijah Beckett’s commanding presence was unmistakable as they marched the outlaws forward. His younger brothers, Joshua and Nathan, flanked the group, their movements coordinated and efficient.

“Move along,” Elijah barked at one of the prisoners who’d slowed his pace. “You’ve caused enough trouble for one day.”

Joshua, ever the peacemaker, placed a calming hand on his brother’s shoulder. “Easy, Elijah. They’re not going anywhere now.”

As Molly stepped down from the coach, her gaze locked with Elijah’s for a brief moment before he looked away.

She found herself torn between gratitude for their rescue and irritation at Elijah’s brusque manner. Though she couldn’t deny the competence with which the brothers handled the situation, there was something about Elijah she couldn’t quite describe. Whatever it was, she found her mind going back to him more often than she liked.

“Miss O’Sullivan,” Gus called out, nodding at her belongings on the boardwalk. “I believe these are yours. I didn’t want to leave them unattended.”

Grateful for the distraction, Molly turned to the drummer. “Thank you, Gus.”

“Do you need help getting them to the hotel?”

“I can do it, ma’am.” A boy of about fourteen rushed forward. “I’m Eddie, and I’ll carry as much as you want me to.”

Smiling, Molly extended her hand. “I’m Miss O’Sullivan, Eddie, and I’d appreciate your help.”

Sheriff Brodie Gaines stood in the doorway of the jailhouse, his broad shoulders filling the frame as he watched the Beckett brothers approaching with their captives. His eyes narrowed, a mixture of surprise and approval crossing his face.

“Well, I’ll be,” he muttered, turning to his deputy. “Jubal, appears we’ve got some unexpected guests.”

Deputy Jubal Whitton appeared at his side, his lanky frame a contrast to the sheriff’s solid build. “Beckett boys bringing in trouble again?” A hint of amusement could be heard in his voice.

As Elijah, Joshua, and Nathan marched the outlaws toward the jail, the sheriff stepped forward, his hand resting on his holster. “Afternoon, boys. Seems you’ve had an eventful day.”

Elijah nodded. “Caught these men trying to rob the stagecoach. Thought you might want to have a word with them.”

The sheriff raised a brow. “Well, let’s get them situated inside.” He turned toward his deputy. “Jube, grab the keys.”

Once the outlaws were securely locked away, the Beckett brothers gathered outside the jailhouse. Elijah turned to his siblings.

“I could use a drink before we ride back to the ranch.”

Joshua nodded, a smile playing on his lips. “Buffalo Run?”

“You read my mind, Josh.” Nathan grinned, already heading toward the tavern.

As they walked, the tension from earlier began to dissipate. Nathan, unable to contain his enthusiasm, recounted the events to his brothers. “Did you see the look on the big fella’s face when Elijah got the drop on him?”

Joshua chuckled. “You did good out there, Nate. Kept your head when it counted.”

“You both did,” Elijah said. “Proud to ride with you.”

The warmth of his rare praise hung in the air as they pushed through the doors of Buffalo Run Tavern. The familiar smell of tobacco enveloped them, a welcome respite from the day’s excitement. Although it was a tavern, Buffalo Run served some of the best food in Mystic, and boasted a clientele of both men and women.

As they settled at a table, Joshua couldn’t help but notice Elijah’s gaze roaming the room, as if searching for someone. “Hoping to see that feisty redhead from the stagecoach?”

Elijah’s jaw tightened as he gave a slight shake of his head. “Making sure no one followed us in here. I’m not convinced we brought in all the outlaws responsible for stopping the stagecoach.”

“You mean, there may have been a lookout?” Joshua asked.

Elijah gave a slow nod as the bartender brought over three beers.