The Framed Marshal – Extended Epilogue

“Tagg, you’re spoilin’ her again with those extra pieces of bread,” Mimi laughed, watching as Tagg carefully fed their baby girl, Rose, from his seat at the dinner table.

Tagg grinned, a playful glint in his eye. “Can’t help it, Mimi. She’s got a smile that’d make the sun jealous.”

Atticus chuckled from his spot at the head of the table, his heart swelling with pride as he watched his family. He never imagined his life would turn out this way, but he couldn’t be happier. Three years had passed since the turmoil that nearly tore their town apart, and now, he had everything he could ever want.

Mimi stood, her hands on her hips, and shook her head. “Well, if you keep spoilin’ her, she’s gonna expect it from everyone, and we can’t have that, can we?”

Tagg winked at Rose, who giggled, a sound that filled the room with joy. “Guess you’re right. But just look at those eyes. How can I say no?”

Atticus watched the exchange, feeling a sense of peace he hadn’t known in years. This was his family—whole, happy, and thriving. Tagg had become an integral part of their lives, as much a brother to Atticus as a surrogate uncle to Rose. They had weathered so many storms together, and now, they enjoyed the calm.

Mimi moved to sit beside Atticus, her hand resting gently on his arm. “Atticus, I’ve got some news,” she began, her eyes sparkling with excitement.

Before she could continue, a shout echoed from outside, causing everyone to turn their heads toward the door. “Atticus! You in there?”

Recognizing the voice, Atticus stood up quickly, his chair scraping against the wooden floor. “It’s Red,” he said, his tone urgent. “I’ll be right back.”

He opened the door to find Red Remington standing there, his expression tense but familiar. Over the past few years, the frostiness that had once defined their relationship had melted away, replaced by a strong bond forged in the fires of shared danger and mutual respect.

“Red, what’s wrong?” Atticus asked, stepping outside.

“Got word that two thieves are tryin’ to raid a stagecoach on the edge of town,” Red explained, his eyes scanning the street. “Could use your help.”

Atticus nodded, glancing back at his family. “Give me a moment.”

Returning inside, he looked at Mimi, who nodded her understanding before he could speak. “Go on, Atticus. We’ll be here when you get back.”

Tagg stood, already heading for the door. “I’ll saddle the horses.”

Atticus kissed Rose’s forehead, then gave Mimi a quick, reassuring hug. “I’ll be back soon,” he promised.

She smiled, though there was a hint of worry in her eyes. “Be careful.”

With that, Atticus and Tagg joined Red outside, mounting their horses swiftly. The three men rode out together, the wind whipping past them as they made their way to the edge of town.

As they galloped, Red looked over at Atticus. “Feels like old times, doesn’t it?”

Atticus nodded, a determined smile on his face. “Sure does. Let’s catch us some thieves.”

Their horses pounded the dirt road, hooves kicking up dust as they approached the stagecoach. The sun was beginning to set, casting long shadows across the landscape. In the distance, they could see the stagecoach halted, the two thieves working quickly to unhinge the horses.

Red and Atticus exchanged a glance, a silent understanding passing between them. They had faced worse than this before and come out stronger on the other side. Today would be no different.

As they neared the stagecoach, Red signaled for them to split up and surround the thieves. Atticus veered left, circling around a small copse of trees to flank the outlaws. Red and Tagg approached from the right, their horses moving in tandem.

The thieves, busy with their ill-gotten gains, didn’t notice the lawmen until it was too late. Red fired a warning shot into the air, startling the horses and drawing the thieves’ attention.

“Drop your weapons!” Red shouted. “You’re surrounded!”

One of the thieves, a wiry man with a scar across his cheek, drew his gun, aiming at Red. Atticus acted fast, firing a precise shot that knocked the gun out of the thief’s hand. The man yelped in pain and fell to the ground, clutching his wrist.

The second thief tried to flee, but Tagg was on him in an instant, leaping from his horse and tackling the man to the ground. They wrestled in the dirt, but Tagg’s strength and determination soon overpowered the thief. He pinned the man down, securing his hands behind his back.

“Got him!” Tagg called out, breathing heavily.

Red approached the first thief, keeping his gun trained on him. “You got lucky this time, friend. Now, hands where I can see ’em.”

The thief complied, grimacing as Red secured his hands with a length of rope. Atticus dismounted and joined them, a satisfied smile on his face.

“Nice work, Tagg,” Atticus said, clapping him on the back. “You handled that like a pro.”

Tagg grinned, standing up and dusting himself off. “Learned from the best.”

With the thieves secured, the three men led them back to town, the stagecoach driver thanking them profusely for their help. As they rode, Red glanced over at Atticus, his expression thoughtful.

“Been a long road to get here,” Red said. “From rivals to partners.”

Atticus nodded, his mind drifting back to all they had endured. “Yeah, it has. But I wouldn’t change a thing. We make a good team.”

Red smirked. “Who would’ve thought we’d end up like this, huh?”

“Not me,” Atticus admitted. “But I’m glad we did.”

As they neared the town jail, Red’s expression turned serious. “I heard about Maximillian. Transported after being found guilty of murder. Can’t say I’m sorry to see him go.”

“Me neither,” Atticus replied. “And Elsa? How’s she holding up?”

“Better,” Red said with a nod. “She’s in charge of the cattle ranch now. It’s running smooth, no more corruption. She’s not exactly happy, but she’s managing. Junior’s off living his life, and she’s doing the best she can.”

“Good to hear,” Atticus said. “Everyone deserves a chance to start over.”

They handed the thieves over to the deputy, who took them into custody with a stern warning. Atticus turned to Red, his eyes reflecting the camaraderie they had built.

“Let’s head back to my place,” Atticus suggested. “Mimi’s got dinner waiting, and I reckon you’ve earned yourself a good meal.”

Red’s face lit up with a genuine smile. “I’d like that.”

They rode back to Atticus’ home, where the warm glow of lantern light welcomed them. Inside, Mimi was setting the table, and Rose played with a wooden doll nearby. The sight of his family brought a sense of fulfillment to Atticus’ heart.

Jarvis joined them soon after, and the group sat down to a hearty meal. The air was filled with laughter and the clinking of dishes as stories and memories were shared.

As the meal wound down, Mimi caught Atticus’ eye, a soft smile on her lips. She reached over and took his hand, squeezing it gently.

“Atticus, I’ve been trying to tell you something all day,” she said, her eyes shining with excitement.

Atticus looked at her, curiosity piqued. “What is it, Mimi?”

She took a deep breath, her smile widening. “We’re going to have another baby.”

A stunned silence filled the room. Then, the group erupted into joyous exclamations and congratulations.

“Another baby! That’s wonderful news, Mimi!” Tagg exclaimed, beaming with delight.

Atticus pulled Mimi into a tight embrace, his heart overflowing with love and gratitude. “I can’t believe it,” he whispered, his voice choked with emotion. “We’re going to have another child.”

Red, standing beside them, clapped Atticus on the back. “Congratulations, Bo. Looks like your family’s growing even more.”

Mimi laughed, wiping a tear from her cheek. “Yes, it is. And we’re so happy to share this moment with all of you.”

Jarvis raised his glass, a broad smile on his face. “To the Mayhew family, and to new beginnings.”

The others joined in the toast, their glasses clinking together in a symphony of celebration. The room was filled with warmth and camaraderie, a testament to the bonds they had forged through hardship and triumph.

As the evening wore on, the conversation turned to memories of the past and dreams for the future. Mimi, her hand resting protectively over her stomach, listened with a contented smile as Atticus and Red recounted tales of their adventures.

“You know,” Red said, leaning back in his chair, “I never thought I’d see the day when we’d all be sitting here like this, sharing a meal and celebrating such wonderful news.”

Atticus nodded, his gaze drifting to Rose, who was now asleep in Tagg’s arms. “Life has a funny way of surprising you. We’ve come a long way, haven’t we?”

“We sure have,” Red agreed. “And I wouldn’t trade any of it for the world.”

Mimi glanced around the table, her heart swelling with affection for the people gathered there. “We’re lucky to have each other,” she said softly. “And I know that whatever the future holds, we’ll face it together.”

As the night drew to a close, Atticus and Mimi saw their guests to the door, exchanging heartfelt goodbyes. Red lingered a moment longer, his expression serious.

“Atticus,” he said, his voice low, “I want you to know that I’m here for you, no matter what. We’ve been through a lot together, and I’ve come to respect you more than anyone else I know.”

Atticus clasped Red’s shoulder, a grateful smile on his face. “Same goes for me, Red. You’re a good man and a true friend. I’m glad we found our way back to each other.”

With a final nod, Red mounted his horse and rode off into the night, leaving Atticus and Mimi standing on the porch, the cool breeze ruffling their hair.

Mimi leaned against Atticus, sighing contentedly. “It’s been a good day, hasn’t it?”

“It has,” Atticus agreed, wrapping his arm around her. “And it’s going to be an even better tomorrow.”

They stood there for a while, savoring the quiet moments together, before finally heading inside. As they settled into bed, Atticus couldn’t help but feel a profound sense of gratitude for the life they had built and the family they were growing.

“I love you, Mimi,” he whispered, pressing a kiss to her forehead.

“I love you too, Atticus,” she replied, her voice filled with warmth and affection. “Always and forever.”

With that, they drifted off to sleep, dreams of their bright future dancing in their minds.

**

Morning dawned over San Mateo, casting a golden hue across the landscape. The town buzzed with anticipation for the Fourth of July Fair, and the air was thick with the scent of wildflowers and freshly baked bread. Atticus and Mimi woke early, eager to embrace the day’s festivities.

As they prepared for the fair, Tagg played with Rose, her giggles filling the house with joy. Atticus glanced over at Mimi, her smile lighting up the room as she packed a basket with food.

“Ready for another day of celebrating?” Atticus asked, wrapping his arms around her from behind.

“Absolutely,” Mimi replied, leaning into his embrace. “It’s going to be a wonderful day.”

They headed out to the fair, joining the throngs of townspeople who had gathered to enjoy the games, music, and food. The fairgrounds were alive with color and sound, children running about with laughter while adults chatted and danced to the lively tunes of a fiddle band.

Atticus carried Rose on his shoulders, her tiny hands gripping his hat as she marveled at the sights. Mimi walked beside him, her eyes sparkling with happiness.

“Look at her,” Mimi said, glancing up at Rose. “She’s so full of wonder.”

Atticus smiled, squeezing her hand. “Just like her mother.”

They wandered through the fair, greeting friends and neighbors along the way. The sense of community was strong, a testament to the resilience and unity that had seen them through difficult times.

At the pie-eating contest, Tagg enthusiastically joined in, much to the delight of the onlookers. He ended up with berry stains all over his face but wore a triumphant grin as he won the contest.

“Think you’ve got room for more, Tagg?” Atticus teased, handing him a handkerchief to wipe his face.

“Always,” Tagg laughed, accepting the cloth. “Can’t let a little pie slow me down.”

As the sun began to set, casting a warm glow over the fairgrounds, the townspeople gathered near the lake for the grand finale: a fireworks display that promised to light up the night sky.

Atticus, Mimi, Tagg, and Rose found a spot near the water’s edge, spreading out a blanket to sit on. Red joined them shortly after, his eyes reflecting the light of the lanterns scattered around.

“Mind if I join you?” Red asked, a hint of a smile on his lips.

“Not at all,” Atticus replied, patting the space beside him. “You’re always welcome here, Red.”

As they settled in to listen to the musicians playing the fiddle, Mimi rested her head on Atticus’ shoulder, her hand gently cradling her growing belly. Rose snuggled in her lap.

Atticus wrapped his arm around Mimi, holding his family close. He glanced at Red, who watched the display with a contented smile, and then at Tagg, who was making funny faces to amuse Rose.

In that moment, Atticus felt a profound sense of peace and fulfillment. They had faced many challenges and overcome countless obstacles, but they had done it together. And now, they stood stronger and more united than ever.

 “We’ve come a long way,” he whispered to Mimi, his voice filled with emotion.

“And we’ll go even further,” she replied, her eyes shining with love and hope. “Together.”

THE END

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