"I don't know, Faye. Is it?" That sideways glance of hers glitters invitingly, but he thinks he knows better than to take it at face value--that or her little catlike stretch. Faye comes off as desirable and interesting--or maybe even interested--but there's a protective layer that's hard to disguise. She'd be hard to get close to, if that were his goal.

Not that I have a goal.

All the women he's met on Gunsmoke are faded, and Faye's so vibrant that she refreshes just like a cool drink would.

But that's just a look she's got; who knows what else is going on under that sleek purple hair? "A while." He gives her an easy grin. "There are worse companions to have on my particular path. It's pretty persuasive when it comes to dispensing the good word, you know?"

They're nearing the hospital but he just glances at it, keeping his attention on the woman sauntering along next to him. "How long have you been a bounty hunter?"