Chapter Twenty-nine
Over the next few days, the old station was filled with activity as Rachel organized a wedding for Little Fawn and Buck. She managed to get Red Bear alone and was able to inquire as to whether or not she could plan a double ceremony.

*I will need to speak to Sky Chaser,* he said. *I think it would be nice for them to celebrate here as well as back home.*

A few hours later, he informed her that it would be acceptable.

Later that evening, Ike presented his box of treasures to Red Bear. *It’s all I have,* he said. *I know it is not near valuable enough, but…*

Red Bear took the box. *No,* he said. “*Its value is fine; Running Buck explained how much you treasure this. I am honored that you feel Sky Chaser is worthy of such a gift.* He took the box and placed it among his belongings.

Later that evening, Red Bear had a quiet conversation with his brother and daughter. Shortly after they finished talking the living arrangements were adjusted. Smiling Dove and Sky Chaser moved to the main house. Buck joined Red Bear and Ike back in the old bunk house. After the ceremony, Red Bear would move to the main house and the newly wed couples would stay in the bunkhouse.

Early the next morning, as the men prepared for the ceremony, Buck handed Ike a present. “Red Bear and I want you to have this,” he said.

Ike took the gift and removed the paper that was carefully wrapped around it. He simply stared at Buck when he realized that it was his box. *But I…*

“I know,” said Buck. “Red Bear decided that the act of giving it away was enough. He does not wish to deprive you of your family mementos.”

Ike tried to object once more. *I thought it was required that I gave him something. Now I haven’t fulfilled that obligation.*

“Yes you have,” Buck said. “You gave him this; he simply decided that he wanted to give it back to you. It is not unheard of for the father of the bride to return some or all of the horses if the groom did not have many to begin with.”

*You sure?* Ike asked. *You didn’t tell him to do this, did you?*

Buck shook his head. “It was his idea. That’s what we were discussing last night. He wanted to make sure it would not offend you.”

Ike hugged Buck. *Thank you,* he said.

Buck smiled. “You are most welcomed,” he said. “I really should be thanking you. If you’d listened to me and had not taken me back to the village, neither of us would be celebrating this day.”

Ike nodded. *Speaking of which, we should hurry and get ready. The girls will be upset if we’re late.*

Buck laughed and nodded. Soon both the men were dressed in their best attire awaiting the arrival of their brides.

Teaspoon oversaw a simple ceremony that was attended by many of the people from town. A reception followed and soon it was time for the newly wed couples to take their leave of the crowds and make their way to their rooms.

When they entered the building, the four young people decided to sit and visit a while before turning in. They gathered at the table that sat in the kitchen area and talked for a few minutes about many things. Sky Chaser and Little Fawn told stories about what it was like for them growing up. Ike and Buck shared tales of their adventures together.

As the night wore on, Sky Chaser noticed that Buck seemed to be hiding some pain. “Uncle, I think it would be wise for you to take Little Fawn and turn in.”

Buck smiled at her. “Are you trying to tell me that you want to be alone with your husband?” he asked.

Sky Chaser blushed and dropped her gaze as she answered, “No. I am concerned that you are in pain; I do not wish for you to have a set back in your healing.” She looked up at him. “Can you honestly tell me that you are not in pain?”

Buck’s smile faded just a bit. “You are right,” he said. “My back is hurting a little.” He glanced at Little Fawn. “I guess I need to have my wife tend to me this evening.” He stood and offered her his hand.

Little Fawn smiled as she took his hand. She allowed him to lead her to the room she would be sharing with him from this day forward. Just before he entered the room, Buck carefully picked her up to carry her inside. “It’s a custom in the white world,” he explained as he kissed her before setting her down next to the bed.

Ike watched them leave before turning to Sky Chaser. *Shall we?* he asked.

She smiled as she nodded, feeling suddenly shy at the prospect of being with him.

Ike stood and took her hand. He then led her to the door of his old room. After pushing the door open, he also picked her up and carried her across the threshold. He didn’t put her down until he reached the bed. Once there, he set her upon it and kissed her. *I’m so glad you agreed to get married here as well as the village,* he said.

She smiled up at him. *Me too,* she said as she reached up and began to unbutton his shirt.