Chapter 3

As the sun rose that morning, Sheriff Mendoza found himself strangely elated at the thought of visiting the legendary ruins. He turned the idea over once or twice in the time he’d been sheriff, but the legend was clear that only three people from Esperanza ever made the trip. The haunted looks the Padre and the Mayor wore when they returned from the mountain had always put the idea from his mind.

He found he thought of it most when Maria and the mayor rode out. The day after each Harvest, they would quietly slip away before anyone woke, and return when the sun was high. But Randall always noticed.

‘Today I’ll finally get to see it for myself.’ But he knew it was really spending the day with Maria that had his heart beating faster. He stole a glance at Marie from under his hat as they rode.

The trip up the mountain was a long one, but Sheriff Mendoza was pleasantly surprised to find that Maria had packed a basket of food for them.

‘Looks like she plans to make a day of it.’ He thought as he studied it strapped to her mare. A rare, small smile creased his tanned face.

“Miss Rodriguez.” Randall tipped his hat. “As much as I want to spend the whole day with you, I’m needed back by this afternoon. I hope you don’t mind cutting the trip short.” He cut his eyes to the basket so she would understand his meaning.

“Maria, Sheriff, please.” Maria smiled back and gave a small bow. ” I already knew that. Do not worry, I shall not keep you from your duty. I hope you like blackberry jam. I have brought some biscuits and some sandwiches for later.”

“That was mighty thoughtful, Mis – Maria. I’m afraid I didn’t think to bring anything but water and some jerky.” He instantly realized he didn’t bring cups, and they would have to pass a skin of water between them – not something a lady would approve of. He looked quickly back down at the dusty road below him, wishing he could turn back and get another one just for her.

“Then it is fortunate that you had a woman to pack your lunch today. Might we pause here so I have some water?” she asked, pointing towards the skin at his hip.

 “I’m afraid I didn’t…” he stammered as he unhooked the flask and passed it to her. Before he could finish, she’d brought it to her lips and pulled a short drink.

Wiping her lips on her sleeve, she smiled again and returned the skin to him. “I am ready.”

She gently clucked to her mount, and they began their long journey up the mountain.