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Waverly sighed as she opened the back door at Shorty’s. She just finished her shift, still smelling of beer and whiskey. The York brothers got into a scuffle with some tourists wanting to “Drink Where Wyatt Earp Drank” so she had to get them to leave the premises. Stupid Carl didn’t know when to call it quits, and completely missed the trash can, and the toilet, and got sick on the men’s bathroom floor. Before the bar even opened, the long-broken tap spouted beer all over her. Despite the happenings of the day, she had a smile upon her face.
That morning, the new Sheriff Deputy introduced herself. Nicole Haught. Haught, indeed. Waverly reviewed the mental picture she had of Nicole for the hundredth time that day. Her shirt was stuck and she needed assistance removing it, which Nicole provided. As her shirt came off, her thoughts slowed because she found herself looking into chocolate brown eyes, a bright toothy smile, and a dimple that made her heart leap. Sure she wasn’t a guy, but it still became awkward! And what was all that difficulty she had speaking? She excelled at speaking! She spoke four languages! Boy-man? Really? Waverly rolled her eyes and kept walking.
So, she was still smiling. She walked toward her jeep parked nearby. She found her key to unlock the door, and looked up at the windshield. A piece of paper was under the wiper blades. Intrigued, she grabbed the paper, and opened the jeep door for some light. Across the paper, in crisp letters, her name: Waverly.
Waverly,
Forgive the stalky behavior of assuming this was your jeep. No, I didn’t look up the tags. Nor have I been following you around town. You were the only one inside Shorty’s, and this was the only vehicle in the lot. Nice jeep, by the way! Built for adventure and taking the road less traveled. Any memorable trips you’d like to share?
It was nice finally meeting you. I can see why the town is smitten with your smile and wave. If a zombie apocalypse came, I’m pretty sure the entire town would defend you. Thank goodness zombies don’t exist, so you’re safe there!
Here’s my schedule for the rest of the week. I do hope our schedules can align and we can grab a cappuccino. I look forward to getting to know you more. You’ve got my card, don’t be afraid to use it.
-Nicole
At the bottom of the note were some dates and times. She saw a couple times they both had off, the first being in two days.
She closed the door to the jeep, turned the ignition and began the trek to Gus’ ranch. As she drove off, she noticed her cheeks were sore. And even though they were sore, she couldn’t stop smiling to save her life.
___
The next day Waverly drove into a parking spot downtown. She had a few errands to run before her shift started. She grabbed her purse and a notebook containing a to do list. She wasn’t joking when she said she was a planner. As she reached to open the jeep door, she looked out the window and across the road stood Officer Haught. She was deep in concentration, looking for something in the passenger seat of the patrol car. Finding it, she hastily closed the door and made her way toward the police station.
Waverly remembered the note she received on her car yesterday (really, she has had trouble thinking of anything else) and thought it would be fun to return the favor. She flipped to a blank page in her notebook, and began to write.
Nicole,
I got your note yesterday. You were right, that was my jeep! Now I hope you don’t think ME the stalker. I just happened to see you step out of this cruiser and thought to return the favor.
Do you always drive the same one?
I haven’t had the jeep very long. I wanted something practical for the winter weather and questionable roads we have here in the Ghost River Triangle. My Uncle Curtis loved exploring, so I guess I caught that bug. It was handy driving around the ranch, too.
Adventures? There are so many old logging roads! One of my favorites goes up to an old mine, and the view at the top is spectacular. I swear you can see the Rockies all the way to the States.
Based on your schedule, it looks like we are both off tomorrow. Can I treat you to that cappuccino you were looking for? Maybe at 10? Perk-atory makes a mean cuppa!
Hope to see you then,
Waverly
Waverly quickly tore out the page, folded it in half, and made her way towards the patrol car across the street. She tucked the note under the wiper blades, then turned to head into her original destination. For the second day in a row, she found her cheeks sore.
_____
Nicole hoped she remembered everything she needed for her day behind the wheel. She really wanted to impress Sheriff Nedley. The man was gruff in his mannerisms, and she liked him regardless. With a crap cup of coffee, she made her way back to the cruiser parked outside.
It was her habit to do a quick car check, and was surprised to find a piece of paper tucked under the wiper blades. She couldn’t stop the smile that formed, hoping it was from the cute brunette she found herself smitten with.
A quick glance at the bottom of the note told her she was right. She looked around to see if she could spot a familiar brunette or red jeep, to no avail. After quickly reading the note where she stood, she refolded the paper and hopped into the cruiser. On a whim she decided to leave her schedule for Waverly, and since she didn’t have her number, the note was the next best thing. If Waverly was a planner, what better way to plan than to have all the information? Nicole was very happy with her decision. She wanted to confirm she would be there tomorrow. She found her pad of paper to write a quick reply:
Waverly,
10 sounds perfect! I look forward to it a latte.
Nicole
Yeah, no. Nicole balled the note and tossed it to the floorboard.
Waverly,
Sounds good! See you tomorrow at 10.
I do get to drive the same cruiser to and from work. Nedley says it helps cut down on crime in the neighborhood. I am surprised it still runs with over 350,000 km on it! It will get me to coffee in the morning.
-Nicole
Happier with the second note, she set it aside, and planned to put it on the jeep later that day.
_____
Nicole,
It was nice hanging out with you yesterday. Apologies for talking your ear off. It’s been a while since someone seemed interested in what I was saying.
Your rock climbing adventures sound thrilling. I never knew it was such a technical activity! As I said I never have been rock climbing, and weather permitting I can’t wait to go.
Thanks for giving me your number. I know I could text you, and I will, but I’m enjoying actually taking a pen to paper. Pretty old-school, don’t you think? I hope you don’t mind me bugging you occasionally with a letter on your car.
Waverly
Waverly,
I am happy to listen. You’re a very interesting and fascinating person! I learned more about Purgatory in an hour with you than the couple months I’ve been here!
This IS fun! It makes my day to see a note on my windshield. Like a little confirmation I am supposed to be here in Purgatory. It’s a nice way to get to know someone, don’t you think?
Your pen pal,
Nicole
Nicole,
Well then, it’s settled. I have a pen pal! A little slice of normal in my life. With my sister Wynonna back in town, the crazy factor increased tenfold. But I am loving having her here. We’ve moved back to the homestead. I moved back for two reasons: to keep an eye on Wy; and because it feels safe. There is a lot to do! I see the potential, and I can envision what it will look like when done.
It’s funny, the inside is way bigger than it looks from the outside, yet it is cozy with a big fireplace. I love sitting on the front porch looking out over the prairie. After we get it fixed up, I’ll have you over for some coffee here instead of at Perk-atory.
Your pen pal (how fun to say that!),
Waverly
_____
Waverly felt twice as heavy than she actually was leaving the bar that evening. Shorty was gone. Gone because of this stupid Earp Curse. The burden of having to lie to everyone, even Champ, left her emotionally drained. When she reached her jeep, she checked the windshield. She smiled reflexively, and even felt a small burst of warmth in her chest seeing an envelope instead of a folded piece of paper. A card was inside. More specifically a sympathy card. The gesture was generous, reflecting the true nature of the giver. The handwritten note gave her more comfort than any other action she received that day (save a squeeze of her hand from said redhead which ended too quickly.)
Waverly,
I know words aren’t very comforting so close to Shorty’s death. I know how important he was to your life. He was a father figure which you respected.
If there is anything I can do to lighten the load, I’m here. A shoulder to cry on, someone to vent to, I’m here. Call me at any time. I mean it.
-Nicole
Nicole,
You are one of the kindest people I have ever met. It’s been hard losing two people so close to me in such a short time. Your caring words have brought me peace, even briefly. It has been nice, having you in my corner. Thanks for being there for me.
Waverly
_____
Nicole,
Brains and a body. Can a person have both? Especially a woman? Wynonna does. You do. I don’t see why I can’t.
Champ has gotten onto my last nerve. We’ve been trying to finish closing all the details around Uncle Curtis’ will. There were some boxes of stuff he collected from all over the GRT. It was fascinating! It got me thinking, and instead of keeping the thoughts to myself, I tried sharing with Champ, who managed to both put me down and objectify me.
Then later, when trying to figure out this riddle Uncle Curtis left for me, more of the same from Champ. I love solving mysteries, and wow did Uncle Curtis leave me a great one! And I figured it out. Champ thought it was going to be some massive treasure so we could go buy a bar down south. But it was more than that. Uncle Curtis entrusted me with taking care of something important, and I felt so honored. And Champ didn’t see the importance. Again.
So I broke up with him. I told Champ we’re done. For real this time. I’d finally had enough. There was this huge weight lifted off my chest, and I felt like I could truly breathe for the first time! Aah! I’m a free woman!
I’m single again, and it is amazing!
Waverly
Nicole was having trouble containing her elation at the news of Waverly breaking up with Champ. It was too good to be true! She wondered if there was any hope for the two of them. She thought it would be best to write out her feelings that were developing for the brunette, but as she sat down with a pen and paper, she stopped herself. No, she wouldn’t let Waverly in on her feelings quite yet. Instead, she kept her note short and simple.
Waverly,
Good choice. Now you can become the person you are meant to be.
-Nicole
_____
Waverly,
I haveI have a very important question to ask, and your answer determines the direction this friendship takes. Dogs or cats?
-Nicole
Nicole,
So we’re going for the deep, existential question… now I’m nervous! Well, you know I’m an animal lover. Any animal! I had a pet hamster when I was young. I loved that guy! I named him Pikachu. When he died I had a funeral for him and everything. Originally my dad got me the hamster, but I wanted a cat. I’m a cat person.
There, I said it. It is out there. Please say we can still be friends.
Waverly
Waverly,
Thank goodness! This friendship can continue! I have a cat. A ginger named Calamity Jane. She does not come to the name, nor does she come when I call Calamity, CJ, Hey Cat, here kitty kitty… I love her to death!
The other day I had the Venetian blinds down to block out the sun, and a shadow of a bird sitting on a branch was cast onto the blinds. Calamity showed how she got her name - she crouched on the top of the couch, and launched herself at the shadow, becoming lodged in the blinds. I had to replace the blinds, because she ripped them off the window, then couldn’t get untangled, and ran them halfway up the stairs. It was quite the sight!
She also likes to stop in the middle of the room and stare into space. Not sure if she is seeing some bug, or dust mote, but at times it is a little unsettling. Maybe she is seeing a ghost! Haha! You’ll meet her, I am sure of it. She doesn’t like people, especially men. Like mother like daughter? Talk to you soon,
-Nicole
Nicole,
A cat? How adorable! Can’t wait to meet her! What a great story. Must’ve been quite a sight! I’ve heard cats have the ability to see ghosts. But that isn’t true. Ghosts don’t exist, right?
I’ve been thinking about what Champ said about his dream life. Not me wanting to be in it, we are done, but him owning a bar, me being the waitress. I don’t want to be a waitress for the rest of my life. Don’t get me wrong, I have enough Shorty‘s shirts to keep me employed for a while.
I have all these degrees and I’m not using them. Well, I enjoy the study of it, and I get to help out sometimes with BBD stuff on a consult basis. But I want more. I just don’t know what it is. Does this make sense? I guess I’ve been settling for so long and with Champ for my adult life that now i feel a little lost.
Waverly
Waves,
You are one of the smartest, most incredible people I know. Not to mention attractive (hey, I have eyes). When I was trying to decide whether or not to move to Purgatory, I asked myself a couple of questions. What do I want to do most in my life? When am I happiest? What is holding me back? Then, trust yourself. At the end of the day you have to live with your choices. I don’t know if you need this, but I give you permission to put yourself first.
I hope this helps. Again, if you need to talk, I’m here.
-Nicole
Nicole,
I have never had a friend like you. It’s like you see me. I’m trying to figure it out, thanks for giving me some direction. And I like it when you call me Waves.
I’m hosting Stephanie’s engagement party tonight. The whole bridal team will be here, we’ll probably make plans to get bridal dresses and the like. It’s been a while since I’ve seen all these gals. I like Chrissy Nedley, she’s been a friend since before school began, and we’ve kind of lost touch. I hope we can be friends again. The rest, well… I don’t know. They’re pretty superficial, you know? And Stephanie is not very nice at all. Like so dependent on their boyfriends or husbands. We were all cheerleaders, and they never grew up.
I expect to get grief for breaking up with Champ, but I do NOT regret that decision. One of the best choices I’ve made.
Well, wish me luck! I will fill you in after.
Waverly
_____
Nicole,
You’ve just left the homestead with Wynonna. I hope she answered a lot of your questions. It hasn’t been easy not be able to tell you the entire truth. I am sorry for that. Wynonna has had an unfair life, and the curse is cruel. At least she has good people around her.
Anyway, I’ll answer any questions she didn’t.
Waverly
Waverly tucked the letter into her purse, intending to deliver it later that day. It became the only letter she never got to send. The person who is becoming a Very Important Person in your life being kidnapped by a demon serial killer is never on anyone’s bingo card.
_____
While Nicole was in the hospital, Waverly tried to write. She would sit down, pen and paper in hand but nothing was forthcoming. Words became too difficult, and would never express how she felt. Too much. Too intense. Too… She had never felt this way about another person. So consumed by thoughts, so immobile to act. She slept poorly, and hoped every day was the day Nicole would be released. When Nicole left the hospital, Waverly had never struggled so much writing a note to Nicole before. She was scared. She was beginning to realize they were becoming more than just friends.
Nicole,
I can’t tell you how happy I am to be putting this letter on your car today. I was so worried. When they told us you had died… and we couldn’t find Wynonna, it felt like I had lost a part of me. I don’t mean to turn this into me, but I need you to understand. You are so important to me, to this community… I am a better person because of you. I guess I should be taking advantage of the second chance. Thank you for being a part of my life, for being such a good friend. You really do bring sunshine into the world, my world. Please stay as safe as possible.
Forever grateful,
Waverly
Waverly,
Hey, I’m ok. I am also glad you got to continue this. Moreover I am glad Wynonna is back and ok. Well, tired, but ok. I have to finish the report from the incident. It is proving difficult, because there are so many things I cannot explain. I also can’t lie, which makes it hard to write and not sound crazy.
About what I said in the hospital when I woke up… I hope that didn’t freak you out. It was quite a stressful time. I barely remember the attack, just small flashes of memory, all painful. That they were trying to find Wynonna and I couldn’t help. Then being told I needed to be resuscitated in the field, my heart had stopped… I wanted a happy memory, and you smiling at me from the front porch, it brought a calm that I needed.
As much as I hate to, I need to get back to this report. Thank you for visiting me in the hospital.
-Nicole
_____
Waves,
Feel free to imagine me sitting here unable to stop smiling. Because I have been remembering that you kissed me today. And wow, what a kiss! I have never been swept off my feet before. You’re ridiculously strong for your size!
I am never going to be able to look at that couch again without thoughts of looking up into your eyes. I can’t wait to kiss you again.
Kisses,
Nicole
Nicole,
I’m smiling more.
Waves
_____
Nicole always had paper on hand. Where was her notepad? She could have sworn it was in the cab. She must’ve left it on the desk when she took the last perpetrator to the drunk tank. Frustrated, she lifted her ticket book and chuckled. Perhaps she’d write a “traffic citation” for Waverly.
Ms. Earp,
This is a citation for violating statute 1206, leaving an unattended vehicle in public. Your penalty may be paid in full by completing 4 hours of off-road driving within the boundary of the Ghost River Triangle. Remit hours to the citing officer, located at Station 62, Purgatory.
Nicole Haught, Police Officer
Officer Haught,
Requesting supervision to comply with fulfilling service hours to pay off a penalty acquired while having my car parked at work. 4 hour excursion planned for the following Tuesday on Tunnel Mountain Drive.
Included please find dry cleaning bill to for services rendered when clothes were unexpectedly soiled upon seeing citation upon jeep windshield.
Respectfully submitted,
Ms. Waverly Earp
_____
Waverly,
Stop by after work? There’s something in Nedley’s office I need to give you. A hint: it rhymes with hiss.
-Nicole
_____
Ms. Haught,
I can’t get last nights date out of my head. You looked Haught as hell! I can’t believe you cooked a vegan meal for the first time last night! It was delicious. Add your cooking ability to a list of things I like about you.
You’ll have to forgive my slow mind. Any time you asked me a question the few seconds it took me to reply was my brain rebooting. And when you kissed me… Yet another thing that scares me - how you affect me.
I am now going to try and focus on my job. I blame you for the poor service the patrons will be getting today.
Waverly
Wave,
Consider the compliment returned! I’m glad you enjoyed the meal. It was easy to prepare, no big deal! There’s a list, hmm? I’d love to see it sometime…
You are officially the topic I think about more than any other in a 24-hour period. I’ve been thinking of places to take you, things to do with you, if you like bowling or not… and kissing you is easily one of my favorite activities. I really like you, too. I have the most fun with you.
Until we kiss again,
-Nicole
_____
Nicole’s knees were still wobbly after the make out session in the supply closet that ended 30 minutes ago. She was glad to be heading home where she could daydream without neglecting her duties. She was so distracted that she was buckled in with the motor started before she noticed a person approaching, which Nicole immediately recognized as Waverly. She walked up to the front of the vehicle, then walked around the drivers side. She held a red envelope in her mittened hand. She wore the same light blue jacket and scarf from a few weeks ago in Nedleys office.
Waverly maintained eye contact as she slowly moved to get closer to the windshield. She playfully smiled as she slipped the card under the wiper and backed away. Nicole had no words as she watched Waverly walk towards Shorty’s.
Nicole quickly unbuckled to exit the vehicle, and entertained chasing after Waverly. Instead, she retrieved the envelope. Inside was a card with the blowing a kiss emoji.
Nicole,
Who knew a kiss in a supply would become the
Best.
Kiss.
Ever.
I will never be able to walk past that door again with any kind of composure.
Waverly
_____
Wave,
I feel like we have been performing this intricate dance around what is going on between us, and I really want to move to a different dance. In hopes that I don’t come off sounding like a middle schooler, and I’m stopping shy of adding the yes no checkboxes below, I have one question for you. Waverly, will you be my girlfriend?
Yours,
Nicole
Nicole,
I’d like that very much.
Your girlfriend,
Waverly