Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman (1993)

S2E2 Sanctuary

Dorothy, Loren's sister-in-law and former lover, is introduced as a woman who has endured domestic abuse. After defending herself against her husband Marcus's violent attack, she seeks refuge with Loren. However, Marcus convinces her to return home. Following another altercation, Dorothy flees again, but tragedy strikes when Marcus is later found dead, making her the prime suspect. Mike steps in to defend her during the trial, but she is ultimately convicted. Just before it's too late, Mike conducts an autopsy and uncovers that Marcus had acute cirrhosis of the liver, clearing Dorothy's name. She decides to stay in town, and Loren offers her a room at the General Store while helping her launch her own newspaper, "The Gazette." Meanwhile, Snowbird leaves Cloud Dancing's teepee, adhering to tradition as he prepares to take a widow as his second wife.