His eyes sweep across her delicate frame.

He tips his hat, Ma’am.

He takes a seat at the bar.

Whiskey Sour, Leave the bottle.

The bitter taste tingles in his throat.

Across the room the piano keys dance.

She gracefully moves through the bar.

A man grasps her apron.

He pulls her in to his lap.

His hot breath warms the back of her neck.

Helplessly she struggles to get away.

The cowboy rises to his feet.

Sir, I reckon you better unhand the lady.

The man releases a bellowing laugh.

He pushes the girl to the ground.

Both guns are quickly drawn.

The cowboy shoots first.

He walks over to the girl.

Well I guess he won’t be putting his hands on you again.

He extends his arm to help her up.

He brushes her silken hair from her cheek and stares into her hazel eyes.

He tips his hat, Ma’am.

She stands speechless.

He walks through the swinging doors and out of her life.

 Years later, in another bar, she hears a familiar voice.

Ma’am. She turns to see her long lost cowboy.

Tears sting her eyes.

She speaks but it’s only a whisper.

I won’t let you go this time.

My Cowboy.