Back ta Winding Creek Ch. 07 - Travel

The three travelers were moving quick to Independence, traveling in a special altered railroad car. A fresh made wall had split the car in two, a white door on the left of a long buffet built against it and a wide wardrobe on the buffet's right. All the seats had been removed, replaced by two settees nestled into the front corner and four wing backed chairs. A low table fronted the settees', a larger table made for serving food or playing cards set in the opposite corner of the settees.

The windows were trimmed in special cut wood and still had a slight smell of white stain: the walls decorated in red and gold flock wallpaper; the floor covered in matching red n black rugs.

Crawford and Sons had done a remarkable job in such a short time.

Tiffany Ann sat on one settee, Anna Ruth on the other. A hand painted china teapot rested on the low table with its matching creamer, sugar bowl and saucers. Both had their cups in hand as they chatted quietly and pointed out what ever might be interesting in the passing scenery.

Lucas sat across the short distance between them in one of the leather wingback chairs admiring both of the ladies in their rich colored dresses and matching hats. The last three days had a good part of Winding Creek doing this, that and the other for Tiffany Ann and Ruth. By the time they boarded the train for Independence, a good part of the town knew Lucas was traveling east.

Those that knew Linda Jean never leaving their ranch and those that didn't had their own ideas as to why Mrs. Bennett was traveling with the tall, wide shouldered Lucas. Most thought pretty much the same, but those thoughts were kept low quiet or not spoken of at all. Anna Ruth Taylor was simply returning home.

Ruth traveling with the pair had been a tale of two schemes.

Tiffany Ann wanted to hurt Sally Tart. Learning about how close the two were, taking Anna Ruth along with them would give her a chance to do just that. Sally was feathering her own nest by allowing her Lover to get as close to Lucas as she could. Lucas was going to enjoy Ruth as he liked until Sally asked him not to. Besides, her little submissive being away allowed her to focus entirely on the tasks she had been charged with.

It was no longer then it takes a hummingbird to move from one flower to the next that Lucas sorted this all out.

Tiffany, pouting up at him with his rock hard, red tipped cock wet with her efforts in her small hand had suggested she'd have someone to spend time with while he tended to business.

Lucas had agreed.

Sally was sharing how Ruth's teachings were going as she asked Lucas what she should try next. Lucas never batted an eye, gifting her a short, three tailed riding crop to try.

He'd save a few other things that came to mind for their shared trip to Cincinatti...

*

When the train stopped in Stillwater, Lucas took both the ladies to the loading platform outside the small train station. Keeping them far enough away from the now soft rumbling, spit steaming locomotive, they watched the fireman swing the long, wide pipe from under the water tower to over the tender just behind it. A hard jerk on a wood handled chain sent water into the tender. Both ladies watched the water rushing into it, soon seeing the water spill over its fill hatch. The chain was released and the water stopped.

Lucas looked at Anna Ruth.

"This is StillWater; not much more than a 'jerkwater' town."

She soft smiled and turned her attention to the smoke-stained engineer as he moved around the locomotive, filling the many brass cups with a very long spouted oil can.

"Nothing much more to see here ladies."

The wide smiling conductor offered each lady his hand as they boarded the train. After Tiffany Ann had stepped into their car, Anna Ruth turned around to look at Lucas.

"Thank you."

Lucas soft smiled...

- 0 -

Sally Tart had watched from behind her drapes as the threesome left to board the train. She and Ruth agreed to say their goodbyes in the privacy of their room. It was safe there; no need to get Tiffany all riled up before they left. Ruth was packed the night before, her trunk and two hat boxes waiting near the door when Joel had come to fetch them.

The rest of the evening they'd spent together, cuddled into each other's arms, whispering their thinking and wondering what the future might bring. Ruth was near worn out after the intense time they shared together just after Joel had claimed the leather strapped trunk; him trying not to look as Ruth slow brushed her hair in front of the vanity.

Sally had been a gentle rough with her submissive after that, using the crop to tease her pale flesh, light stinging her skin; careful not to mark her. Sally wanted her as virginal looking as possible when Tiffany Ann finally seduced her. Lucas would love it even more if he could relive their first time together, this time with two submissives. That did not limit Sally's attention to her near always damp 'kitty' as they often referred to the wispy hair covered mound now trimmed short on her 'sweet little pussy'.

Sally loved toying with her sex, bringing Anna Ruth so very close and then denying her release. She'd nibble on her breasts after that denial, caressing Ruth's firm flesh under her mouth, stroking her tummy and the top of her thighs, never touching her aching 'kitty'.

When she would finally give Ruth her permission to cum, Sally would eek out every

last emotion she could while Ruth's body trembled with her climax, Sally's hands staying busy and her soft words loving and praising. Their shared time tonight had been especially intimate after the best session they had ever had. It was only the second time she been told and allowed to call Sally, 'Mistress'; Sally making her final instructions clear...

- 0 -

More then one resident of Independence took pause to look at the tall black dressed man in the silver vest escorting two near beautiful women: one on his arm and the other close with them. Both ladies were dressed more then well, their ostrich feather decorated hats catching the gentle breeze moving along with the Missouri River.

They had left their hotel and were chatting as their driver and a porter wrestled to unload their two trunks, a large standing leather bag and several hat boxes.

One of the ladies wore a bluebird-colored long skirt and jacket trimmed in the same black as her ostrich feather. Her white blouse moved gentle with her as she gazed up at the handsome man, her black gloved hand moving here and there, the other never leaving his arm.

The other woman wore a maroon satin dress also trimmed in black. Her hem line were high enough you could see her black leather shoes with the two-inch heels. The feather in her matching hat were black too, more pointed back then up. The feather matched the lace and gauze covering her low, squared neckline. She had her arm looped though the man's arm, her black lace covered hands locked over the crook of the tall man's elbow.

The man's black, flat brimmed hat had a slight curl up on its sides, his sand-colored hair a little long and pushed back over the collar of his white linen shirt. A black string tie and silver vest under a squared jaw and hard green eyes showed a sure confidence in who he was.

The three travelers cut an impressive sight as they were led to the moored steamboat along the raised wood walkway. Tiffany Ann, blue eyes wide and red stained lips slightly parted, were overwhelmed.

The Cincinatti Queen with her four decks were as tall as the brown brick Gregory Hotel they'd spent the night in. Mostly white, it was trimmed in bright red, including the massive paddle wheel behind it. Twin black smokestacks sent long grey smoke trails twisting into the air and then floated high behind it.

A dark blue dressed man with shining brass buttons on both sides of his coat and a white, brass decorated hat tucked under his arm greeted them. They walked over a hanging walkway, its rails painted white, the top one the same bright red. A white gloved hand was offered as Tiffany Ann took the small step down off the gangway.

More sounds then she heard from the streets of the city the day before filled the air. Men calling out near the back of the riverboat where black men were loading all kinds of goods of different shapes and sizes. The words of those on the first deck above them were all tangled together making little sense. The same sounds of the steam locomotive muffled by the louvered walls that hid 'em added to the constant hubbub.

"I will have your luggage delivered to your rooms shortly."

Lucas looked to Tiffany Ann.

"T-thank you."

A quick, waist-high wave of the white gloved hand brought a similarly dressed man with only one row of wide white buttons decorating his dark blue uniform.

"Texas Deck. Govenor's Suite and adjoining."

"Yes sir. "

The younger man looked to Lucas Blake.

"If your party will follow me Sir."

The blue uniform stopped at the bottom of wide stairs allowing the Ladies and Lucas to go up the gray painted steps. They all waited for the young man as he closely followed, and then side stepped past them to another set of brass chain blocked stairs. Loosening the chain, he again allowed the Ladies and Lucas to go first, securing the chain behind them as they climbed to the third deck.

"This is the Texas Deck. Your accommodations are front and left. The main dining room is center deck. Private dining can be arraigned per your request. Music and entertainment is available after the dining room is closed at six-thirty. Of course, you can always have something delivered to your suite at any time. Gambling for gentlemen is offered behind the dining room in our full-service lounge. The promenade is always available for your enjoyment. The upper promenade in front of the pilot house is only available to our special guests. That does include you and any guests that you might have."

He led them to their rooms, opening the oil-stained, soft shining mahogany door. After the Ladies passed, he offered two keys to Lucas Blake.

"One for the suite and one for the adjoining room Sir. The connecting door can be secured from either side. And of course, if there is anything I or any member of the Cincinatti Queen can do for you or your party, you need only ask."...

- 0 -

Sally Tart carried a different air about her as she readied herself for her duties at the Diamond. It been a long day in Lucas Blake's office with the drapes drawn tight. Stephen Bennitt had not been pleased when he showed up with the bank's daily ledgers. He simply did not understand why he had to show up every other day to have the red headed whore go over the ledgers with him.

He'd been with Lucas and the L & L ranch for near twelve years. He knew n loved Linda Jean, was married to his sister Tiffany Ann and knew each of his children by name; he over saw the Mercantile and the secretly owned White Tail Hotel. It had been him, Stephen Bennitt, that taught Sally Tart how Lucas wanted the books kept in the first place. This was a waste of his time.

But Lucas had been plain. Every other day at five he were to go to his office and meet with Miss Tart with that and the day before ledgers. He'd answer any of her questions, even if it did not concern the bank. He was to act professional and most importantly, respectful...

*

Sally added a touch more rouge to her cheeks. The powder she used on her face didn't quite hide the sleeplessness that slow started showing under her eyes. It was Thursday night, the first and only meeting of the town council Lucas would miss. Joel Tinker had been told to be generous with the pouring of their drinks. Babet, Luanne and the new 'Destiny' were to be a little more friendly; that included offering a better showing of their 'assets'.

She had had a quiet meeting with Big George, the shrewd Irishman that ran their other brothel in Winding Creek. She wanted to know any and all of the words being said about Lucas Blake's absence. His girls would be compensated accordingly. Big George could be an evil and cruel man: his knowing of Smoke Garcia's loyalty to Lucas tempered those ways.

Sally was getting her first good look into the way Lucas ran things, the way he knew the things he did. She'd always loved Lucas, his strength and the way he treated her; guided her way in running first the Diamond, sending her back east to Miss Molly, and then asking she'd keep a close eye on the Hotel. She was charged with checking on the restaurant, but knew Helga was one of his most trusted associates and friend.

She often hoped the older German woman would never lose favor of her. The one thing that Lucas Blake held in highest esteem was loyalty. Harm that and your future would fold quick like a traveling circus's tent...

*

The evening went well, the council members keeping their talk short and focused on business. John Birch had a bit to much to drink, Luanne having to finally swat away his wandering hands. The man's face colored a bit when another council member spoke softly to him. John lingered a bit before crossing to where Luanne was quiet talking to another customer and tucked a folded-up bill into her hand. Luanne was gracious, giving him a cheek staining kiss.

Sally moved around the men, offering her hand or cheek here n there. She only lingered with council members this evening. She'd had a word with Mark earlier, the quiet watching man on the whore's balcony. He was to keep aa special eye on the gambling tables tonight. If he saw something, it would wait until Sally asked.

Most knew of Sally's 'special' relationship with Lucas Blake. Those that didn't and maybe stepped over the line were quiet reminded by Sally herself: a hard look or a gentle brushing away. If she ever had any more trouble, the offender might be warned by one of the members of the Diamond. If that didn't set well with whoever, Joel Tinker was more than able to handle any problem personally with Mark always standing ready with his Henry rifle...

This particular night had a visiting, well to do man playing poker with some of the regulars. This game could be a serious one. Tonight, it quick turned into just that. The long grey coated man with dark blue lapels and same blue trimming were mostly quiet, though he was an arrogant winner. His ruffled yellow shirt swelled with self-importance as he dragged in his winnings, offering unwelcome advice to the loser or losers.

"I knew you only had two pair. Your pitiful raise told me so."

His soft hands sorted his money as he finished his unwanted observations. He would fall silent when the cards were dealt again. Doc Roberts was a big loser that night, taking his leave early and only leaving four players. One Eyed Johnny soon followed. The puffed up yellow shirted man was a bit put off.

"I was told this was the finest gambling establishment south of Independence. Seems those tales were just words."

Ben Carson and Paul Segan took note. After meeting each other's eyes and a quick wink from Ben, Paul went and asked if he could join the game. Sally Tart knew what was going to happen. Casting a quick look to Joel Tinker, the big barkeeper moved down some where he could better see the poker game. Two hands later, Ben Carson joined in after introducing himself to the well-dressed man.

"I'm Ben Carson. I own the Leatherman's shop."

The grey coat only looked up.

"Joe Bulger."

The awkward silence ended when Paul Segan called out the next game.

"Jacks or better."

The cards followed quick.

In the next hour and a half, Mr. Bulger kept winning some, but the pots were smaller. Paul Segan became the big winner, saying it was time for him to go after relieving the now quieter visitor of most of his earlier winnings. After winning the next big pot, Ben Carson took his leave. Joe Bulger was still mumbling some when the other players excused themselves.

Sally Tart sent Mr. Bulger a fresh drink. Babet smiled at Sally before delivering it.

"On the house sir."

Joe was looking close at the cards, dropping the deck onto the table as he looked at the soft smiling pretty girl.

"Thank you."

He ran his eyes over Babet, taking special note of the open hook under the low-cut bodice of her dress.

"Will you join me."

"I'd like that, but at this late hour house rules are that you have to buy me a drink."

Joe Bulger only half smiled.

"What's a good bottle and your-self cost a man this late?"...

- 0 -

Tiffany Ann was still looking around as Lucas soft closed the door. The oil-stained wood covered walls, intricate moldings and near white ceiling spoke of elegance; the polished four posted bed caught the light as Anna Ruth opened the heavy white drapes. The same white quilt bed spread covered the large bed. Every piece of furniture was made of walnut and polished til it shone soft like moonlight.

"This is even finer than the Hotel Lucas."

Lucas Blake smiled.

"This will be home for the next week or so Ladies, depending on river conditions and such."

Anna Ruth went through the adjoining door. Tiffany Ann filled Lucas's arms, her ostrich feather tickling his nose. As she squeezed him tight, she whispered up to him.

"Think that bed will hold three?"

Lucas chuckled as he slipped the long, red tipped hat pin free. After removing her hat, he tossed it onto the bed before lifting her chin.

"That will be up to you and Ruth."

He gentle kissed his blonde paramour.

"Do you think my 'wife' might allow that?"

Tiffany felt her cheeks warm.

"Allow what?"

Ruth was standing close now, her hat left behind in her room. Tiffany Ann winked up at Lucas.

"My husband is wondering if you'd join us together in that big ol' bed behind us."

Both the ladies had talked some about it: soon after Tiffany had invited Anna Ruth along while they shopped and Ruth told Tiff she'd liked being nude when she was alone: along with other quiet shared secrets and thoughts.

"I'm not sure Sally would like that."

Tiff slipped her hand free, reaching for the light brown-haired woman. Ruth paused, then slipped her hand into Tiff's. Lucas lifted his arm and Ruth joined them, slipping one arm around Lucas and the other around the twinkling eyed Tiffany Ann.

"What Sally doesn't know won't hurt her."

Tiffany gave Anna Ruth their first real kiss.

A soft knock on the door ended their brief encounter. Lucas looked to Ruth to answer the door, keeping Tiff on his arm as he turned her to face the door.

"Your luggage ma'am."

When Ruth opened the door to the blue coated, white buttoned man, a light blue shirted negro rolled the first trunk into the room. Ruth pointed him to her room. Another same dressed negro brought in the other trunk with a hat box on it. Tiffany pointed to their wardrobe. The standing leather bag and last two hat boxes were directed to the same wardrobe.

All three black men kept their eyes lowered, placed their bringing's where they were told and quick filed out. The white buttons bowed slightly.

"If there is nothing else?"

A quick count to eight and the door was closed softly...

*

Lucas looked down on the hurried pace of the crewmen below him. Heavy ropes were slipped free, some returning to the dock, other's being coiled onto the boats main deck. A ringing bell and the first shrill whistle cut the air just before the sound of steam being released down and behind him. The red paddle wheel broke the surface of the gentle-moving water as the riverboat edged away from the dock. Several men and women waved at the very slow leaving vessel; final shouts added to new sounds of water falling off the huge turning wheel, the creaking of wood and the cry of the fast fleeing of gulls. A short and then longer shriek from the brass whistle announced their departure.

Both ladies were sorting their personals from their trunks, hanging what they could in the wardrobes of their rooms and scattering their other needs where they belonged.

They shared in the effort to stack the near empty trunks and standing leather bag in a corner of the adjoining room. Tiff took note of the quick stripping of the extra petticoat's and such from under Ruth's dress leaving her legs bare. Her dress lost a touch of it fullness, but only those that knew better would notice. Tiffany quickly followed suit, enjoying the river-stained spring air cooling her underneath.

She quietly went to the small bag she gotten special for Anna Ruth.

"Ruth, could you join me for a minute."

When Ruth returned to the main cabin. Tiffany Ann handed her the canvas made bag. With questions in her eyes, Ruth loosened the draw string and peeked inside.

"It's something that Lucas prefers."

The younger woman looked at the soft made moccasins. Sally had suggested it; Anna preferred going bare foot.

"A woman that doesn't care for her feet doesn't care for the rest of her near as well."

Tiffany Ann made a thinking face for a minute.

"Come to think of it, it was after Sally came that Lucas started saying that."

Ruth sat on the edge of the white quilt covered bed, stripped off her leather shoes, spun cotton socks and slipped on the perfect fitting soft leather. Tiffany answered her asking eyes.

"When we picked up those special high heeled shoes, I had Ben fashion those special for you."

A shared thank you hug turned into several gentle searching kisses...

*

The day slipped by easily, both ladies strolling on the promenade as they circled the Texas deck. Their matching parasols slow turned on their shoulders only to be held gracefully above their heads when they moved into or under the sun. More then one man took note, a few being a bit more familiar with their eyes. Both ladies enjoyed the attention, maybe Tiffany a bit more then Ruth. When they'd linger at the rail, their now white covered hands pointing at this or that in the slow-moving scenery, the older of the two men that took special notice would comment on what they were seeing...

The same two men had settled at the next table when the ladies stopped for some lemonade. Both well dressed, their tall beaver hats and ruffled shirts spoke of success. The younger of the two didn't take the care with his boots that the older man did, them being scuffed and a bit worn. Both ladies dismissed the two men out of hand, but the older man spoke loudly about his business and its growing success.

Halfway through their lemonade, a soft smiling boy in blue pants, near white shirt and buttoned up tight matching blue vest set two fresh glasses of lemonade at the lady's table. Tiffany Ann hard stared at the boy.

"What is this?"

The boy stepped back, glanced at the two men and then met Tiffany's stormy eyes.

"T-the Gentleman said you were ready..."

Tiffany quick stood.

"The only man that that sends me something that I have not asked for is my Husband!"

Ruth Ann's white gloved hand covered her smile. The younger of the two men went to stand, the older man's hand on his shoulder stopped him.

"We were only being friendly Ma'am."

Tiffany Ann turned her fiery blue eyes on the now soft speaking older man.

"Friendly!"

The man pursed his lips.

"My apologies Ma'am."

Tiffany Ann was getting miffed now.

"A man that doesn't stand when giving his apologies to a Lady after insulting her is a poor excuse for a Gentleman, let alone a man."

Ruth could see the color filling the man's face.

"I've offered my apology. I'll not be saying anything more."

"Then you'll be speaking to me."

Lucas Blake was standing some ten feet behind the man, left foot forward, the slow-moving air opening his black frock coat open a bit, the silver vest shining in the sunlight. The man's fingers tightened on his drink.

"And you'll stand and face me when you do it."

The younger man that was seeing the hard, green-eyed Lucas quick paled.

"I'll not be asking again."

Anna Ruth now understood what Sally Tart tried to explain to her. The slow-moving riverboat with the wet sounds coming from behind and the rumbling steam engine sounds below faded into the crackling air. The older man slow stood and turned to look at the black dressed man staring hard at him. There was no forgiveness in the sandy haired man's face.

"M-my apologies Sir. I meant no disrespect."

"Then you'll say that to the Lady's"

The older man hard focused on Lucas. His options were less than limited. He slow turned to face Tiffany Ann and removed his tall hat.

"My son and I meant no disrespect Madam. I offer my deepest apologies and assure you; It will not happen again."

Lucas never wavered; his eyes held both men in contempt.

"Tiffany Ann."

Sky blue eyes widened a bit. She knew but had never seen it. Her breath quickened. Ruth's hand slow took Tiffany's trembling, white gloved one. More than one passenger had taken note. The brass steam whistle cut the air. Ruth squeezed Tiff's hand as she stood...

"T-thank You."

The two ladies moved around Lucas and towards their cabin. Lucas slow straightened, buttoned his black frock coat and brushed away a little something from in front of his pocket. His jaw hard set, he let his eyes sweep over the staring passengers.

"I'll not tolerate rudeness... Especially if it's directed at my wife or her sister."

One long last look at the two men and he turned on his heel to slow follow the two women. The mahogany door was slightly ajar when Lucas reached it. He paused hearing the excitement in the words passing between the two women. Slow shaking his head, he stepped inside and hung his hat

"When you two are wandering the promenade, I suggest you act like the Ladies you want to be treated as."

He went to Tiffany Ann and lifted the maroon satin.

"Where are those fancy shoes you had to have woman."

Tiffany didn't say a word. The maroon was lifted higher.

"Bare legged too."

Tiffany twisted away. Lucas knew the look: eyes defiant, red stained lips parted, fast coming breath.

"Ruth, you'll bolt the door. Tiffany Ann: I asked you a question."

The black frock coat was slipped off to join his hanging hat near the door Ruth was bolting as the silver vest was slow unbuttoned.

"Ruth, you can go to your room or stay here. Makes me no difference."

Ruth was as caught up in the moment as Tiffany Ann was, her breath quickening as well.

"Tiffany Ann; I'll not ask again."

"Y-you always said you liked moccasins. That's why I'm wearing them."

The white linen shirt would soon follow the discarded vest.

"I like a woman that cares for her feet; keeps 'em soft n clean."

"Y-yes Sir."

"Now let's see what else you're not wearing... take off the dress."

Tiffany gnawed at her lip. her breath coming faster.

"Anna Ruth is dressed the same... She's not wearing anything under her dress."

"I'm speaking to you, not Ruth."

Tiffany looked to the floor as her fingers busied themselves with the may hooks and few buttons. Lucas pointed at the watching Ruth, his growing pecker quick becoming hard as steel as he turned his attention to the younger, wide-eyed woman.

"If what she is saying is true Ruth, I'd like to know what Miss Sally might say."

Ruth felt weak in the knees. Sally had told her. The words were coming from her trembling lips before she could stop them.

"I-I'm not to s-show what belongs to her without permission."

Lucas shook his head.

"And you have made that commitment to Miss Sally."

"I-I have."

"And Sally gifted you to my care. I'm supposed to watch over you. Is that correct."

"Y-yes."

"What caused Miss Sally to say you're not to show off what's hers."

Anna Ruth felt the heat in her face as she shifted from one foot to the other.

"That night you two had dinner... I-I was worried. I kept checking the clock in t-the hotel lobby."

Lucas moved closer to the very nervous woman and lifted her face to search her dampening eyes. She tried to avoid the piercing green. He snapped her face back to his. She felt lightheaded.

"You are not answering my question, Ruth."

"I-I was dressed in my robe and w-white silk chamois. S-several men took notice."

Lucas let her chin drop back to her chest.

"Just like today. You both were on the promenade, not dressed as Lady's, but more like whores."

"N-no... Yes... Not really."

"Did your Mistress punish you, Anna Ruth."

"Yessss."

She could feel the first tear trickle down her cheek. Shame. Frustration. Need.

"How."

"W-with her hairbrush."

Lucas inhaled deeply and let his breath ease slowly from his chest. He never looked at Tiffany Ann. His eyes never left Ruth. With a quick motion of his fingers, the now nude Tiffany Ann moved behind Ruth. Her heavy, wide pink nippled breasts soft swayed in the light filtering around the edges of the white drapes.

"And with Sally's own words, You... Belong to me this trip. Is that right."

His words were hard, his eyes now cool green.

"Y-yes."

Ruth felt the heat explode between her thighs with her answer as her sensitive nipples tightened: then the feel of the blue jacket being slipped off her shoulders. Tiffany Ann's fingers tugged at her long blue skirt, her warm breath on the back of her neck as the last blue trimmed in black material pooled at her feet.

"You will call him Sir, Ruth."

Tiffany Ann undid the buttons of her blouse and slid it off her shoulders. The straps of the white chamois fell with it off her shoulders. Ruth slow closed her eyes. Lucas Blake moved to the wardrobe and chose the carriage whip; a long slender piece of hickory wrapped tight in black leather, a loop handle on one end and the ends of the covering braid dangling at the other. The chamois joined the skirt pooled around Ruth's feet.

"Tiffany Ann, I'll decide on what I'll do with you after I am through with Miss Taylor."

Ruth felt the room spinning as she opened her eyes to see Lucas moving toward the bed, the soft shining leather filling his hand. His pale green eyes shone like a tom cat's late at night. Those eyes slow moved over her.

Lucas had seen her nude before; enjoyed her pale flesh, her lengthening hard nipples. But Ruth felt very different this time. Vulnerable. Almost afraid. She was to be punished by Lucas Blake. Thoughts of her words with Sally coursed through her mind, how Lucas could be kind or very cruel. She cringed as his eyes lingered on her fresh trimmed mound and the glistening crease running down its center.

"You'll face the corner post, hands high and holding it."

Anna Ruth paused for a brief moment; Tiffany Ann light slapped her bottom. Ruth moved to where she was told, reaching high above her head to grasp the polished walnut bed post. The sound of the leather covered switch with the dangling ends cut the air and made her hazel eyes and trembling body tighten.

"If you let go Ruth... Even for a second... I'll start fresh."

Tiffany Ann's words floated to Ruth's ears.

"You need to answer Anna Ruth."

"Y-yes Sir."

The whine of the whip cutting the air allowed the standing woman to tighten her bottom. The flame of it striking her smooth skin brought fresh tears streaming from her eyes.

"One."

Tiffany's count almost sounded gleeful. The whips sound brought another flash of searing pain.

"Two'."

A wide strong hand caressed the burning flesh. He kissed her shaking shoulder. A pause and then the wicked sound followed by another flash of flesh marking pain.

"T-three."

And then another.

"Four."

Ruth's fingers tightened, her knuckles white, her cry strangled deep in her chest.

The blood ponding in her ears quieted the air, the explosion of pain against the back of her thighs brought a short cry.

"P-please..."

"Five."

Lucas motioned with the dangling end. Tiffany caught her breath, knowing exactly what she wanted to do. She was going to enjoy Sally Tarts lover. Make her cum with her hands, her fingers and mouth... Tiff had spent many a night with Sally; knew what she liked to do and what she didn't with another woman. When Tiffany finally offered Sally's punished young lover to Lucas, she would be more than ready to be fucked like the little slut she was! And she'd be more than willing to do anything her 'husband' wanted.

Tiff centered the smooth, cream-colored woman at the end of the bed. Cradling her face in her hands, she kissed the soft whimpering, Ruth. Tasted her lips. When Lucas's new toy parted her lips; Tiffany eased back, looked deeply into her tear-filled hazel eyes and tilted her face before kissing her again. And again. The tip of her tongue slipped quickly in and out and the next time shared a deep, exploring kiss. They both knew Lucas was watching. Both wanted to please the man watching them. Sally's instructions slipped through Ruth's mind. 'Just let go... Please Lucas... How ever they see fit.' Ruth thought it would be difficult, hard to have another woman make her feel like Sally did... It wasn't. And the man standing to their left would pleasure her like he had before and settle the new fires that raged inside from the thin welts on her bottom. She knew it; wanted it even more...

Tiff sighed staring into her clouded hazel eyes as Lucas neared. She eased back and standing sideways, filled her fingers with her soft light brown hair and turned her face to Lucas. He kissed her now. Hard, his tongue invading her mouth. His hand cupped her breast, his fingers stretched her taut nipple. Tiffany toyed with her other breast, her free hand lowering between her thighs. Ruth didn't hesitate, spreading her feet wide, allowing Tiffany to touch and explore the delicate, wetting pink skin; then tap the hardening bud.

Lucas stopped. Tiffany quick followed, her words low.

"I love it."

Ruth's smooth skinned tummy tightened. Lucas's eyes blazed over a tight smile.

"Sally told me how much you enjoyed the crop I gifted her: made you cum with it."

Tiffany's fingers were again busy between her wide-open thighs, opening her swollen folds, letting the warm air caress the shimmering pink skin. She felt the whip's end wander over her tummy, grazing her very short hair covered pubic mound. Tiffany took the dangling end and rubbed it against her swollen nub. The texture of the leather sent lightning bolts through her body. Tiffany stared into her slitted eyes as her body trembled hard.

"I can see how right Sally was."

That now damp leather end was curling over the top of her weeping opening, trapped between Tiffany's searching fingers and slick reddening skin. Anna Ruth Taylor caught her breath. Tiffany's mouth covered her nipple. The gentle nursing sent another wave of heated pleasure surging through Ruth's now shaking body. Tiffany pushed two digits as deeply as she could into the flowing warmth, turning her palm flat against the whips end. Searching deep inside and high above the twisting Anna Ruth's pubic bone, those fingers found what they were searching for. The damp leather ground between Tiffs palm and the sensitive pink skin around Ruths hard clitoris. Ruth stretched high on tip toes, her body drawing tight...

*

Lucas had settled in one the chairs from next to the small table, his eyes never leaving the two women on the quilt covered bed. Tiffany and Anna Ruth shared intimacies more intensely then he'd ever seen before. They were like one in their movements, their shared sounds of need and then fulfillment filling the lightly sex scented room. There was no hurry, just the cradling of each other for long moments as their mouths and hands and fingers explored. One or both would look away from each other at different times; meeting his eyes, sometimes soft smiling, their eyes content... And then they would begin again.

At one point, Tiffany had turned Ruth onto her tummy and gently kissed every inch of the thin sun setting red marks on her bottom and the darker red line on the back of her cream-colored thighs. Tiff had only paused long enough to gather the special oil she always kept close on whatever lamp holding table was close to the bed. Lucas enjoyed the soft sighs from Ruth as Tiff lightly covered each mark, soon lifting Ruth's pale bottom and slipping her face between her thighs to slowly bring the other woman to yet another climax.

Lucas had only ventured once from his chair: gathering a glass and the water pitcher and placing them near the once used oil. After he settled again, Tiffany looked out at him and winked before pressing her glowing face against Ruths splayed, shining pussy...

*

The light had faded around the closed drapes edges when Lucas excused himself to order them some dinner. The dining room was close to empty, a lone piano player playing soft and just a few tables occupied. Lucas ordered fresh pan-fried fish, salad's, lemonade and a high-priced bottle of gin. He took note that the younger of the two men he'd seen earlier avoided looking in his direction. His father was nowhere to be seen.

Lucas took the time to enjoy his pipe outside their rooms as a white coated porter stood on a small stool to lite every third oil lamp along the inside wall of the promenade. The light forward coming air tugged at his black frock coat as the very young man smiled in the older Lucas's direction.

"Why every third one son."

"Keeps the bugs away some Sir. The less light the better. Skeeters along the river can be real bad and with no moon..."

The youngster shrugged his shoulders.

"Folks got to see."

Lucas nodded his thanks and looked forward again. the sweet-smelling smoke of his special blended tobacco brushed past as the last light of the day faded away.

"Hey Mister!"

With the same coming sound of a cocking pistol, Lucas dipped right and turned fast, his new pistol filling his hand. The shot from behind caught the shoulder of his new frock coat. Lucas Blake's first shot caught the man trying to surprise shoot him just above his belt buckle, slamming him back against the white stained baluster on the outside of the promenade. His second took the shooter over the top red rail and sent to him to hell after he landed on the main deck twenty-five feet below. The man's son was fumbling with his own gun. Lucas didn't blink, his first and only shot striking the young man square in the chest. The young man tried to rise from being sent several feet back and onto his back but only managed to lift his head and look at the man that had just ended his life.

The wide-eyed porter standing with his stool in one hand and holding the oil wick lighter in the other pressed tight against the wall, his white coat now decorated in fresh sprayed blood...

*

Captain Myron Tilly was quiet speaking to Lucas Blake near center front of the Texas Deck. Several blue coated men, a few with their brass buttons still undone, kept the looky-loos at a distance. All the oil lamps had been lit, casting long shadows in their yellow light.

"Young Gerald says the man was trying to back shoot you."

Lucas looked to where the youngster was still standing close to the wall, the copilot gentle talking to him.

"If that boy hadn't called out, it'd be me laying on the main deck."

The dark eyed Captain shook his head.

"The next major Port of Call is St. Louis, where we turn north on the Mississippi... Late tomorrow, maybe a bit earlier. I'd appreciate it if you would stay in your cabin until we contact the newly appointed police chief so we can clear all this up. It's plain to me what these men were trying to do. I'll keep young Gerald in the crews' quarters."

The Captain pursed his lips.

"I don't suppose you'd surrender your weapon."

For the first time, Captain Tilly was uncomfortable with Lucas Blake and the hard look he received after his question.

"I didn't think so."

Captain Tilly extended his hand.

"We'll speak again an hour or so before we dock."

Lucas Blake took the extended hand.

"Many thanks Captain."

"It's Gerald you should be thanking Mr. Blake."

Lucas twisted his face a bit.

"As I told you, I'm the prosecutor in Winding Creek. Any reward I might have in mind could be misconstrued."

The Captain gave Lucas a wry smile.

"Maybe a steak and potatoes as a reward for a job well done by me would be appropriate."

Lucas smiled.

"I think that would be appreciated."...

*

Tiffany Ann and Anna Ruth were both sitting quiet when Lucas finally returned to their cabin. Both ladies were dressed as they were earlier in the day, the now half-empty bottle of gin resting quiet between them among their nibbled at delivered dinner.

Tiffany had been crying, Ruth struggling with all that happened. It was Tiffany that reached Lucas first, folding herself into his arms.

"W-why did you make us stay inside. We wanted to be with you."

Lucas soft chuckled.

"Two near naked women standing and fussing over me on deck would certainly be a sight."

Tiffany squeezed him tight. Ruth neared with a half-filled glass of Lernid's in one hand and the bottle in the other. It was like Sally had told her: Getting Lucas a drink was the thing she should do. The way Lucas looked at her settled the many questions that Anna Ruth Taylor had had before the shooting just outside their room. She'd never forget looking over the railing and seeing the dead man that only hours before he and his son sent her and Tiff a lemonade.

Neither woman had taken note of the many fellow travelers that saw them in a thin robe or a wrapped around sheet, but would enjoy just what Lucas thought about it later...

- 0 -

Joe Bulger looked at the rumpled sheets covering the brass bed that he'd had Babet in until she claimed his time with her was done. She'd fucked him like he'd never been fucked before: not even asking for extra for the wonderful things she did with her mouth. She'd rode him like the woman he'd always dreamed about, her dark nippled breasts bobbing like a duck on a windy lake as she drove her tight little pussy up and down his long, hard pecker. He relived the sight of her round little bottom rippling with each thrust into her from behind; her soft whimpers and low cries...

He thought it odd that she was distant until he bragged about coming from South Port Indiana to buy a stallion from Mrs. Linda Blake at the L & L Ranch. He'd been generous with his tip, asking if he could see her before he headed back home with his purchase.

She'd agreed...

He took his time readying for the short trip to the exclusive ranch. A Mr. Tinker would call for him at around eleven. He still hadn't decided if he'd ride out to the ranch on horseback or take a carriage. He felt like a young man again after his night with Babet. Fact was he could have enjoyed at least one, maybe two more rounds hard fucking the wanton little harlot.

He shook his head, wondering if all the women out west were like Babet. He winked into his shaving soap covered face as he slow scraped two days growth off his chin. Now if the horses he was coming to see were anything like the Philly he had last night...

*

Linda Jean had received word from town that Mr. Bulger had arrived. They shared several letters over the past months concerning the kind of stallion he was looking for and what Linda Jean might have available.

Mrs. Blake enjoyed these occasional visits. Near every man that traveled to see her work was appreciative of her obvious efforts in breeding the finest horses she could. Her stallions brought more than any dozen of the usual horses they sold. The occasional mare near five times as much.

She especially enjoyed the long talks they would share about breeding their animals. Whether at the corrals edge or lingering in the barn or sitting on the porch, these men respected her and what she had accomplished. She was in no one's shadow. Not J. D.'s. Not in Tiffany Anns. Not in her husband's Lucas Blake.

Though she would never admit it, she enjoyed the way the strangers made her feel special much like Lucas always did. Why she did this or how she did that: they would listen careful and with respect in their questions, some offering a more personal observation here or there. There had been more than once a particular Gentleman might turn her head a little. Depending on the man she would brush them away or soft smile. Though she'd never been with another man, and never would be, a pair of blue-grey eyes or a hard-skinned hand would enter her intimate times during Lucas's long absences in town...

*

Joe Bulger had chosen the tall-wheeled carriage for his traveling. Joe Tinker simply said he'd ride his own buckskin and take his leave after introducing him to Mrs. Blake. Mr. Bulger bristled a bit: after all he was more than capable of following directions. The man running the L & L Livery was adamant, saying he wouldn't be welcomed without an introduction. Bulger slow followed at a distance, not wanting to spoil his appearance with the sometimes-late spring dust.

Dressed in a light blue ruffled shirt under his new black trimmed red waist coat that his tailor said it made him appear taller and with his shiny black beaver hat, he believed he cut quite a picture of wealth and respectability. He eased a bit farther back when the ranch came into sight, wanting to make an entrance.

The slow appearing long black-haired woman standing on the porch took his breath away. He thought the light blue silk she wore around her neck were a sign of good luck as it near matched the shirt he wore. The light-colored material filled the open space between the white linen she wore over her heavy, gentle moving breasts. She never spoke as he rode close to the grey stained porch floor, waiting for him to leave the carriage.

"Mrs. Blake, this is Mr. Joe Bulger. He says you knowed of his coming."

The dark eyed woman stepped onto the top of the first step and extended her hand.

"Mr. Bulger. It is good to finally meet you. I am Mrs. Linda Blake."

Joe Bulger even stretched a bit taller as he took the extended hand and bowed to brush his lips over it's back.

Linda Jean quickly drew back her hand.

"Joe Bulger Madam. It is indeed a pleasure to finally meet the woman whose words I've been sharing over these past months. May I say your ranch is even grander than I had expected."

Linda Jean took note of the man who she only knew by the words she'd read. Lucas would dismiss him as a dandy, all prettied up like he were. She appreciated his effort, still feeling the slight tinging from the back of her hand. She dismissed Joe Tinker with her eyes.

"Thank you, Mr. Tinker."

Joe Tinker moved off the porch before replacing his hat. He was forgotten as he stepped into his saddle.

"May I offer you some coffee after your long ride Mr. Bulger? Or would you prefer some cider."

"Coffee would be most appreciated Mrs. Blake."

Linda Jean stepped back onto the porch soft waving the smiling faced man to a chair on the porch. Joe Bulger took note of the woman's near perfect bottom as she steeped towards the screened door.

"Connie."

When Linda Jean turned back to the still standing man, she motioned him to her own chair opposite of where she intended to sit, keeping the small table between them. Joe Bulger remained standing until Linda Jeans settled in her husband's chair. Removing his hat, he slow sat.

"Just beautiful. Near as perfect as a man could ever dream. Wonderful day. Magnificent ranch. A woman near as beautiful as the handwriting I've so much enjoyed."

Linda Jean scoffed a bit.

"Pretty words will not get you a better price Mr. Bulger."

Joe Bulger took note of the twinkle in the woman's dark eyes.

"They are not pretty words if they are the truth Mrs. Blake."

"Yes Ma'am."

Joe avoided looking to hard at the young pretty gal as she stepped though the screen door.

"Coffee for Mr. Bulger. I'll have some morning tea Connie."

"Yes Ma'am."

The screen door soft closed behind the calico dressed near woman.

"I do believe I've died and gone to heaven."

"And why is that Mr. Bulger."

The well-dressed man took a chance.

"With all the beautiful women I've met since coming here, can there be any other explanation."

Linda Jean met the shameful remark with a hard look, but her eyes said something different.

"Am I going to have someone accompany us when we look at the horses Mr. Bulger."

"My apologies Mrs. Blake."

Joe Bulger bit his tongue not saying what he wanted to, but his mind was racing with possibilities'...

*

Linda Jean kept her distance from Joe Bulger. The man was a bit to friendly. She'd caught him more then once with his eyes lowered to her breasts as they talked. She'd seen it a hundred times with Tiffany Ann, but not near as much as she did this late afternoon as they looked over the two stallions. In one way she was half flattered n the other she was appalled. This man would never receive another smile unless a price was reached, and the gold filled her hand.

"I'd surely like to make an offer on the white and gold Linda Jean."

Mrs. Blake was slow taking annoyance.

"As I've told you, that horse is to be gifted to my husband. The black and the younger buckskin is all I have for sale."

"Damn shame. That white n gold would make the trip more then successful...."

He slow turned his wandering blue eyes on Linda Jean Blake.

"... or maybe you could sweeten the pot some."

Linda Jean hard stared at the arrogant man.

"I think we have nothing further to talk about Mr. Bulger."

Linda Jean turned on her heel. Two hands grabbed her by the shoulders turning her to face him, the man pressing his mouth to hers. Mrs. Blake bit at the tongue trying to force its way into her mouth. The side of her face exploded with his hard slap to her cheek.

"Maybe a good fucking would take some of that starch out of y..."

Joe Bulger raised high on his toes as the three tines of the hay fork pierced his back and shown their light rusted ends through his fast-staining red, ruffled blue shirt. The man stiffened again as more of the three tines made their appearance before Joe Bulger slowly sank to his knees. The round faced Rudolfo Sifuentes Garcia leaned forward, pushing more of the fork through Bulger's chest and into the ground...

*

Linda Jean cradled the soft sobbing man child in her arms as a near running Smoke Garcia closed the distance between them. Wet eyes greeted the enraged red-faced man.

"Y-your son just..."

Smoke stroked the unkept hair of his adopted son.

"My son hass done what anyee man would have doone Miss Linda."

Linda Jean forced a smile as she looked into dark, wet eyes.

"Y-yes he has... I am most grateful Rudy."

The round face offered up his near always there smile. Linda Jean kissed his cheek. He pressed tighter against her.

"Rudolfo, youu will take the Padrones wife to thee house. Youu are a mann today. I em verry proud."

The wide-eyed young man never looked at the man laying pinned to the ground, slipping his arm around the woman he had always loved and cared for. His face rose to look at the house as he guided Linda Jean to her rightful place on the long porch in front of her white and yellow home, his booted toe pushing away whatever she might stumble on...

- 0 -

Lucas Blake never looked back as they slow departed St. Louis. The 'Chief of Police' as he was called didn't give a tinkers damn about how the two men died. It was out of his 'jurisdiction' and fell under Captain Tilly's 'dominion'. If the Cincinatti Queen's captain was satisfied that Lucas had done no wrong, who was he offer another opinion.

Lucas soft smiled at the two women who sided him on the promenade in front of the Pilots House. Both ladies had shunned their skirt matching jackets after the few questions had been asked and answered, their high necked thin white blouses plainly showing the silk and lace camisoles under them. The Police Chief, if he'd been any ordinary man, would have been slapped with all the attention he showed Tiffany and Anna Ruth. Even Captain Myron Tilly had taken note, though with a more gallant way of observation.

Now the three travelers were seated around a table that had been set special in the center front of the promenade. A bottle of Lernid's set center table, a large pitcher of lemonade resting on the slow-moving white linen tablecloth next to it. The ladies had tall glasses of the gin laced lemonade, Lucas his usual crystal glass half filled.

"I think Police Chief Whales... Wills... Whatever his name was eyes were going to fall out of his head."

Lucas slow shook his head.

"Captain Tilly was no better."

"You Lady's...."

Tiffany covered Lucas Blake's hand with her white gloved one.

"You really don't mind when other men look at us do you L. B."

Lucas studied Tiffany Ann's face after she said it. It had been some time since she used that term. For some reason he didn't mind it from her red stained lips.

"I am proud of both of you Lady's. Soft spoken..."

He winked at Tiffany Ann.

"... beautiful. And most of all, mine."

Both Ladies moved close to give Lucas a soft kiss on the cheek.

"You think that wise Lady's?"

"The only ones going to see us are the Captain and his in the Pilot House."

"Isn't that enough."

Ruth turned full on to face Lucas. Her fingers moved quickly under her neck and then halfway down the light material. Her eyes never left Lucas Blake's as she parted the thin material, smoothing it flat against her shoulders. The resulting view was of the top of her breasts under the lace covering the top of them.

"I-I would like to show a little of what belongs to you Sir. I am proud to belong to you and Tiffany Ann. I-I'll show more with your permission."

Lucas took note of the light pink shading the lovely lady's cheeks, the quickening of her breath as he enjoyed the offered view. Anna Ruth wet her lips as Lucas reached over to her and loosened two more buttons and then grazed the tip of her hardening nipple with the back of his hand.

"You'll leave things as they are until you are told differently."

The soft, low sigh that slipped from the newly exposed woman sent a tingling between Tifany Ann's thighs. She soft squeezed Lucas's hand.

"I think she should do without her chamois..."

Ruth closed her eyes.

"... Let the men enjoy what is yours Lucas."

A small gasp followed Tiffany's suggestion. Lucas turned his paling green eyes on his long-time paramour.

"And what shall I share of you Tiffany Ann."...