Zero at the Bone, is this another story?
Souxi, in answer to your question, yes I defiantly believe that this is how things would have worked out if Ennis had only taken the chance as in the H/I story. In a way, this story has made me forget the bitter ending to the film/original story, as I when I think about this, I think of this story and the sweet life they have.
I am not sure if I want to read any other stories now, save for what Madlori writes, as the path chosen within her stories is one I think would have happened.