Back ta Winding Creek - Ch. 9

( After 18 Chapters and near one hundred fifty thousand words, this will end my efforts concerning Winding Creek. Again, I cannot Thank those enough that have voted, commented and shared my tale. )

Sally Tart was special dressed to meet Lucas and Anna Ruth as she waited for their return at the rail station. She mightened be as pleased to see Tiffany Ann, her often wondering what she might have been up to these past three weeks. There'd been no problems here in town, and she was more than pleased about that.

She read the telegram again, though she knew it by heart.

'Arriving the 14th. Will need L n L carriage.

Regards.'

She knew that meant Lucas was going directly to the ranch and business would wait. She'd taken note of the happenings at the Livery that morning. The L n L carriage shined; Patch n Cherry, both well-groomed were wandering around the front corral and no less than two buck boards stood at the ready.

Something was afoot; better to think about Anna Ruth.

She'd had their room painted sky blue and all the trim n doors in bright white two weeks ago to let the paint smells to be sent away through the open windows n sometimes breeze. New drapes and matching bedspread with fresh white lace curtains made the room theirs.

She'd missed Anna Ruth even more than she thought she might and set the Diamond n hotel right so she could spend her first evening alone with her. She knew Lucas would let her know when he wanted to talk business... Maybe a little pleased that he was going straight to the ranch. Said he had faith in her...

*

Lucas sat in his high-backed leather chair with Sarah Kate next to him in another as their railroad car moved closer to Winding Creek. He enjoyed her questions and like on their riverboat travel; he took whatever time were needed to explain his answers. And the young girl had many. She'd never seen a steam engine up close where bare-chested, smoke-stained men fed fuel into the boilers or the inside of a pilot house on a river boat. The captain and other men spoke to Mr. Luke with the same kind of respect most paid to her grandfather.

They'd grown closer, Sarah Kate noting everything her new-found father did to insure her mother's comfort and care. He even carried her cradled in his arms when they arrived at the Royal River and then up the many stairs to their cabins on the river boat. They often sat together high on the front of the Royals promenade deck, a quilt over her mother's legs and shared tales of Luke's time when he worked for her grandfather, the things they saw and what they were going to see.

She liked this new man in her life. He never raised his voice and knew when her mother needed rest back in their cabin n sometimes reading both of them to sleep. He always answered when she called him Mr. Luke and slipped her into bed when she fell sleep one late evening.

She and her mother had their own cabin, Mr. Luke his and Anna hers. Anna Ruth was traveling with them to help with her mother. She was very pretty and never left her mother's side when she and Mr. Luke would explore the smaller towns along the way or walk around the white paddle wheeled riverboat. They all ate together in Mr. Lukes room and sometimes in the main dining room.

It was after their last dinner on the Royal River that Sarah, cuddled in her mother's arms looked up to her as Lucas read to them. Her mother soft smiled and nodded yes to her unspoken question.

"M-Mr. Luke."

The wide shouldered man set his leather-bound copy of Moby Dick in his lap, his eyes answering his daughter. She peeked up again at her mother and then met the matching green eyes.

"Can I call you Papa."...

*

Mother and daughter watched as Lucas Blake met quickly with several men, one at a time on the wooden loading platform after they arrived in Winding Creek. As a red wheeled black carriage neared their railcar, Lucas returned to them, helping her mother first into the carriage and then covering her legs. When he settled his daughter next to her mother, a plain looking man in a plaid shirt moved close. He removed a near new hat, holding it in his hand's, center of his chest.

"This is Tom Poe. He'll be handling the carriage as soon as Anna Ruth says her hellos and joins you. Tom, this is Mrs. Taylor and my daughter Sarah Kate."

Kaitlyn noticed the flicker in the 'cowboys' eyes before he soft smiled at her.

"Very pleased Mrs. Taylor. I hope you had a good trip."...

Then extended his hand to their daughter as his smile widened.

"I'm very pleased to meet you, Miss Sarah."

"The pleasure is ours Mr. Poe."

Lucas winked at Tom.

"You hold up about a half mile out. I'll be right behind."

When Sarah went to speak, her mother's gloved finger swooshed her nose. Sarah watched quietly as her new-found father spoke with a very well-dressed, red headed woman and Anna Ruth. When Anna came to the carriage, Sarah noticed the plaid shirts twisted, work hardened hands as he helped her into the carriage. Moving onto the seat next to Anna, he gathered the reins n called out.

"Hep."

The carriage moved forward as Anna looked back at the mother n daughter on the second seat.

"Lucas will be right behind with a special surprise for you Sarah Kate. He wanted us on our way as he finished up some business. It's a bit of a ride to the ranch; Tom here is the top hand at the L n L."

It didn't take long for the town to pass and the flat land to sprawl out under a light, very blue sky. Sarah was pleased as her mother slowly took a deep breath in the near summers warm, dry air.

"It's pretty out here Mama."

"Y-yes, it is."

"Are you feeling any better."

Her mother covered her daughter's hand.

"It will take a little time Sarah Kate."

It wasn't long when they both turned to look back at the sound of coming horses. Lucas slowed as he sided the carriage, riding Patch and leading Cherry. Tom Poe eased the carriage to a stop to loop the reins over n then through the decorative iron railing on its front. After he stepped down, he offered his hand to Sarah.

"I think your surprise jist got here Miss Sarah."

Both, Katlyn n Sarah saw the change in Lucas Blake as he stepped down from Patch, patting the horses jaw as its head bobbed up and down when he did. He somehow looked bigger as he handed Tom the black animals reins. His eyes had narrowed a bit but changed into a soft warm green. The only time either one had seen his eyes and soft smile like that was when Sarah asked to call him Papa.

He led the white n red speckled horse to where Sara was standing. Sarah took note of its bright pink eyes. Her father handed the horse's reins to the wide-eyed girl.

"This is Cherry. She's the gentlest horse that can be found. She'll be yours until you and Miss Linda pick out one of your own."

Lucas ran his hand over Sara's red hair as she stared up at him.

"Linda Jean knows more about horses that anyone with-in a thousand miles Sarah Kate. I want you to listen close when she tells you things. I know you'll be the best of friends."

Sarah just kept looking between her new-found father and the pink-eyed horse as it lowered her head.

"Just hold her halter n stroke her neck."

A small, long fingered hand moved over Cherry's neck. Lucas looked to Tom Poe. "You'll be gentle with your travel. Me n mine will walk a bit and then catch up with you before you hit the ranch."...

-0-

Tiffany Ann had watched through the slightly parted curtains of the glass windowed clarence as Lucas gathered a green dressed woman into his arms and carry her onto the Royal River. Anna Ruth was right behind holding the hand of the same color green dressed girl with her red hair pulled back and tied with a matching bow.

They'd said their goodbyes the night before, both Tiffany n Ruth teary eyed and Lucas a bit stand offish.

Tiffany knew Lucas didn't approve of her staying. Didn't like the fact of her leaving their children. But true to his word, he wouldn't stand in her way. She hadn't met his new-found daughter or the woman that gave her birth.

"You have a last fitting before the party this evening Love."

Charles Taylor spoke softly as he sat across from the wet eyed Tiffany, admiring his new paramour and possibly next wife.

"You are going to have the time of your life Tiffany Ann. We have the party tonight before we travel to your new home Sunday morning; then soon to Boston, New York and across the Atlantic..."

His words faded as see wondered how long it would be until she would see any of them again...

-0-

Linda Jean had her second cup of Luna's special made tea to help her settle some. Lucas was coming home.

All the children were scrubbed clean and being held under Luna's hardened eyes to stay that way until her husband arrived. Connie was still busy in the kitchen: fried chicken, crushed potatoes, green beans and a steak close by if Lucas favored that.

Joe Tinker had brought Lucas's special strudel when he came to tell Mrs. Blake what time the train was to get to Winding Creek. Smoke Garcia, clean shaven with his long mustache waxed and wearing a new red shirt wandered from the porch to the children, adding a stern look as he kissed Luna on the cheek for the second time that morning.

Linda Jean wondered what his daughter would look like: that and what 'both' meant. The telegram she'd gotten less than three days before simply said.

'You were absolutely right Wife. Both times.

Home on the 14th. All my love. '

She wished that Lucas weren't so secretive. She knew he was talking about being united with his daughter, and the long ago dream that she offered him that they all could be together after he told of her existence. They'd only spoke of it that one time, it being a hurt that Lucas never wanted to speak of again... Until he told her that he had to go east. She'd thought about it a long time before she was near sure and then whispered to him after their kiss n handing him Patch's reins before he left.

'I'll love her like she were my own Husband.'

She'd never forget his eyes, the soft smile and the rare second kiss before he turned Patch and rode away...

"Mama L, Mama L.!"

John was riding his pinto hard, pulling up well short of the house to walk his horse in.

"Ten minutes out Mama."

Then he looked to Smoke.

"Two riders, Papa and a girl on Cherry. Tom's handling the carriage. Two women sitting the back."

A quick wink told the boy he'd done well. Smoke Garcia's hard whistle brought all the children to and around the porch. Linda Jean rose, moved toward the steps and then returned to sit again. Soon, Luna's hand on her shoulder settled her a bit more.

"Go greet your father, John. You're the oldest."

The very excited near man walked the pinto a good bit before double stepping and pulling himself onto the quick starting horse. There were several ahs and a mothers shake of her head as the pair rode full bore away...

Lucas looked at Sarah, more then pleased on how she rode.

"That'll be John. He's the oldest. You have any last questions."

Sarah shook her head, the confidence she had slipping quick away. Her father's hand patting her thigh slowed it some.

"You be you, Sarah Kate. Always remember whose daughter you are."...

*

The late morning had gone well. The children stayed pretty much put until after Linda Jean took Patch's reins and Lucas swung down to sweep his wife up in his arms before kissing her hard. She was no more then set to her feet again as each and every child crowded in to get their hug, kiss or whatever from Lucas Blake.

Their chatter filled the air, with even Luna's youngest crying out as they set the blanket spread on the grey painted porch. Sarah had smiled at John as he took the reins to Cherry and headed towards the barn before she went to her mother. The wide-eyed girl smiled at her wet eyed mother as she reached out for her. Her mother held her tight and then looked at her.

"This is like the family you should have always had Sarah Kate."

Her mother pulled her close again.

"I know you'll be loved here and safe as you can be."...

*

Well after the meeting of who was who and the surprised oohs when Sarah Kate went right up to Smoke Garcia and gave him a hug when they were introduced... After the huge meal was shared on the linen covered tables and Sarah was swallowed up by the children's questions... After Kaitlyn were settled in her room for a nap and up again; the sun fell special pretty, and the children bedded down... The women sat the porch. As they got to know one another, Smoke, Tom and Lucas Blake walked the edge of the corral away from the house.

"You mean Rudy just killed him with a hayfork."

Tom looked to Smoke.

"Si Padrone."

It was Smoke that held Lucas Blakes fiery green eyes.

"And Linda Jean."

"Like anyee one seeing their first maan keelled."

Lucas's face said he wanted more.

"She cumfert Rudy... Leed him awaay... Then cry when I come cloose."

Lucas bit off the word.

"Now."

It was the only time Tom Poe ever saw Smoke Garcia maybe, maybe flinch.

"Luna say shee is OOkaay. Mee, Tom or Conniee stay close."

Lucas deep sighed.

"Youu hadt to know Padrone."

Lucas nodded n extended his hand to Smoke and then Tom Poe.

"Is there anything else I have to know tonight."

Smoke near smiled.

"Tom ies sweeet on Connie. Miss Linda is matchh maaker."...

Lucas forced a smile and clapped Tom on the back, the three men then turned as one.

"Gentlemen, I'd like some alone time with my wife."...

*

Anna Ruth was still quiet, watching Tom Poe and Joe Tinker unload several trunks into the barn. She was never spoke to after Kaitlyn was helped from the carriage to hold her daughter as the children crowded around Lucas Blake. Tom had slow turned the carriage to lead it to the barn. When he took her hand to step down, he tried to smile.

"Tinker will be here shortly. He'll take you back to town."

Taking note of the confusion n hurt in Anna Ruth's face, he soft continued.

"You are one of the few from town that's been to the ranch Miss Taylor. None have seen what you witnessed tonight. Not even Miss Tart."

The rattling arrival of Joe Tinker and the buck board ended his quiet words. When the men finished, Tom went deeper into the barn and returned with a folded horse blanket, placing it on the hard bench seat of the buck board.

"Miss Taylor."

The offered hand was welcomed with a forced smile.

"Joe, Lucas has asked that Miss Taylor be taken to the hotel. If her luggage hasn't been deliveret to her room, you're to tend to it."

Joe climbed onto the hard bench seat.

"You got it Tom."

Easy brown eyes looked to Anna Ruth.

"You ready Miss Taylor."

With a short nod of her head, the buck board slow moved away from Tom Poe, the barn and the L n L ranch...

Anna Ruth Taylor let her mind wander as the sound of family and the ranch slow faded behind them. She hadn't said ten words to Joe Tinker in the time she'd been in Winding Creek but knew his son well. Joel Tinker was Sally's favored barkeep at the Diamond. Sally had had her tease him unmercifully. She tried to tell herself that she'd barely spoken to Joe Tinker because she hardly had seen him.

Her slight to him made hers earlier almost seem fair.

"T-thank you for taking me back to the hotel Mr. Tinker. "

"You 'er more than welcome Miss Taylor."

She knew there would be no more talk unless she said something first...

Instead, she thought of her first night on the Royal River traveling back to Winding Creek. How Lucas had asked her to join him after Kaitlyn and Sarah had retired for evening. The drink they shared in the boats dining room and the cool night air on the Promenade deck. How quiet the river boat became after the sun had long set;

the sounds of the paddle wheel breaking the water and then falling back into the Ohio river. The steam engine huffing from down below. How Lucas talked soft to her, sharing how he felt about Tiffany Ann's staying and bringing home his daughter.

She listened close, touching his hand and soon moving to him. She had loved the way he drew her into his arms. When he finally slowed with his words, she gentle kissed him, letting his tongue slip into her mouth. She drew it deeper. This was the first time she had shared special time like this with Lucas Blake. His touch was gentle, his new coming words filled with need and affectionate. They cuddled close as they returned to her room, his touch only leaving her as they undressed.

She remembered how hard he was as he leaned against the wall to watch her finish, how his eyes only left hers to linger on her body, always returning to her own. When he took her that night, it was gentle at first; his mouth and hands and long fingers exploring every inch of her heated flesh like it was the first time they had ever been together.

It was exactly as Tiffany Ann had told her it could be.

When she had her first climax, she clung to him, raining kisses over his face and shoulders and neck as she made little love sounds. When he began again, she became even more wanton than she had always been, fucking him hard through her next orgasm and then crying out when she felt his seed fill her deeply inside. Though she knew what and how, she realized she didn't need Tiffany Anns direction... She heard and cherished every word he said, every kiss they shared and every touch of his long fingers.

Soft words brought Anna Ruth back to her here and now.

"You okay Miss Taylor."

Joe Tinker had heard the soft quickenin' of the breath coming from the near beautiful Anna Ruth. Her closed eyes n the color shade her cheeks... And knew his son weren't tellin' tales about the young harlot Sally Tart was in love with...

-0-

Tiffany Ann lay in Charles Taylor large bed, the steady sounds of the train tracks clicking under them and Charles mouth working it's magic deep between her wide-open thighs. The older man knew what he was doing and his new blonde paramour loved every minute of it. As she lifted her hips into the lapping man's face, she had yet another orgasm, falling back into the overstuffed goose feather mattress. Charles slowed his attention to her wide-open sex, kissing the inside of her splayed thighs as he slowly rose to his knees.

"I cannot get enough of you Pet."

He looked down at the flush faced woman as he slid his hands over her calf, then brought her toes to his mouth. Tiff gnawed at her red smeared lips as he wrapped his tongue around each red tipped digit.

"T-tell me again what you liked most about that party last night Charles."

He kissed the arch of her foot before massaging it gently.

"I can tell you what I like about you here and now."

"Mmmmm..."

Tiff laid her head back, her small hands reaching for the sides of the pillow she laid her head on, holding it tight.

"I love that smooth, wet little pussy."'

He ran his tongue between the sole and the bottom of her toes.

"Ahhhhh..."

"I love your feet."

He nipped at tips of her toes. She soft giggled.

"How small they are."

He pressed her foot against his cheek. She stared into his blue-grey eyes.

"How fucking soft they are."

He let her foot fall back to the fine linen sheets, slowly lowering his more salt than pepper hair covered chest over her still heaving tummy. Capturing a swollen nipple, he nursed on it a bit, then let the taut pink skin slide through his teeth.

"D-damn you Charles."

She closed her eyes remembering.

"T-tell me."

"What."

He enjoyed her other breast. She tried twisting away. He held her down.

"Charles."

He met her eyes.

"I loved how man after man asked if you would like to waltz, the way you looked at them, dismissing some with a disdainful look and others with a soft smile and fluttering of your fan. I especially liked when you said to more than one 'My eyes are up here'.

Tiffany pouted.

"It was that sinful dress that you had made for me."

"It showed a lot less that many of the others."

Tiffany Ann drew in her bottom lip and then turned her face away.

"Is that why I saw you looking at the other women. Aren't I enough for you."

Charles lowered his face, kissed her tummy several times and then teased her navel with the tip of his tongue.

"Do I need to show you again how much you mean to me."

"Noooo. I don't think I could..."

"Then you know."

She enjoyed his still damp, teasing smile.

"Mmmmm, I do."

She sat up, making a little show of collecting two of the many pillows to put behind her to settle against the near ceiling high headboard. Charles Taylor laid his head on the top of her thigh. Tiff stroked his thinning hair.

"Are we going to these parties often, making me wear that white chignon wig and

feathered domino mask."

He tipped his face up to look at her.

"You didn't like it."

"I didn't like having to act like we didn't know each other."

Charles Taylor rolled off the expensive linen and went to the armoire, poured himself a Lernids and looked at her.

"You?"

"A small one."

He returned to the bed, handing her a slightly filled tumbler before resting on its edge.

"Anonymity Tiffany Ann. It allows everyone to do or be whatever they wish to be."

Her new benefactor was telling what he wanted her to know. Tiff's sulky look excited him.

"You don't think anyone knew you or I."

Charles chuckled.

"Some did, some did not. Most never will and do not want to. Plausible denial. I know I've bedded many of my so-called friends or business acquaintances 'significant others'."

"Charles!"

He kissed her cheek.

"Do not be coy with me Tiffany Ann. I saw how much you liked those men fawning over you and their all their attentions. You forget your hard nipples could be seen if a man knew how to look."

She quickly drained the small amount of liquor he'd given her and handed him back the twinkling crystal,

"I think I'll have another."

He poured a bit from his own glass into hers.

"What did you like Tiff."

His blue-grey eyes grew deadly serious. She wet her lips with the tip of her tongue and took back the tumbler. She was going to share what she wanted him to know.

"I liked being there, with you close and teasing those men, making them want me."

She again drained her drink and looked at him.

"When you have your way Charles, you'll have me dressed like Timothy Blair's wife; maybe even let them touch me after they ask your permission."

Her suitor let his eyes move over her breasts, exposed tummy and then her legs.

"What I would really like Tiffany Ann; really enjoy."

Her face turned to innocence as she lowered her chin, peeked up at him with wide eyes and slowly parted her thighs.

"Is you in that swing above the buffet like some of the other women: A long red-haired wig wafting in the air as you swing back and forth in a black domino mask trimmed in gold. ",,,

Charles ran the back of his hand along the side of her face, turning it he reached her shoulder, his fingers trailing past it, along the side of her pale breast.

..."All your nails bright red, your small hands high above your head holding that velvet rope; exposing all of your naked body under a black pinore",,,

Again, the back of his hand as it slid down over her tightening stomach, past her satiny smooth mons pubis, lightly grazing her swollen folds. Tiffany Ann groaned as her Lover eased two fingers inside her sore, tender sex. She drew back her knees, allowing him even deeper penetration.

"Watch you swing back and forth, pointing those pretty little toes forward, reaching for the ceiling and then back, your thighs slightly parted to let all those men search for a glimpse of your wet, well fucked pussy."

Tiffany's body froze, the muscles in her neck to her feet tightening, the fresh wet warmth covering Charles Taylors hand. She rolled her head as he stared down at her, fluttering the pad of his finger over her stiff little clit.

"S-stop... Stop."

He leaned over her near red, weeping sex and blew lightly where his finger had been.

"When we get home, you will begin getting some sun on your wonderful, soft, pale flesh. I want them to know who you are and that their seeing what belongs to me."

Her body trembled.

"I-I never..."

"Shhhhhhh... James knows. You will use the special oil I have gotten from France, from your sun-stained neck to the tip of your toes; all in the privacy of the gardens behind the house. A little everyday... And I'll...

-0-

Linda Jean Blake woke from the slow growing red sun and the bright yellow n gold light staining the eastern skies. Sitting up, she saw Lucas standing in the open loft door. It was near the same sight as their first time together many years ago. She saw the love in his eyes as he turned to look at her.

"Morning sleepy head."

Mrs. Blake soft smiled, tilting her head between her wide stretched reaching arms.

"Good morning, Husband."

He smiled as he returned to their makeshift bed in the large barns hay loft.

"Did you like my surprise, Husband."

He quick winked.

"I loved every minute and everything else about last night Wife."

He was pleased he could still color the cheeks of the woman he loved. Linda Jean started gathering the clothes that been tossed about in readying for their passionate end to his welcome home.

"Can we stay here Woman. I just thought of something that I may have forgotten last night."

She paused for a bit, then shook her head.

"Lucas Blake! I swear..."

*

Linda Jean set the porch with her husband, most their serious talking done the night before and her thought after questions answered this morning. Together they enjoyed the see-sawing din of the kids playing on the side of their large house.

"Rudy has done a fine job with those flowers you favor Linda Jean."

"And your surprised."

He took note of the soft edge in her words.

"Is Luna..."

"First thing this morning after you talk to Kaitlyn. And yes, Sarah will be part of it if her mother agrees."

Linda Jean focused her eyes on Lucas Blake's.

"I've never seen anyone hug Smoke like Sarah did yesterday."

It was something they hadn't spoke of yet. Lucas soft chuckled.

"More 'n likely she knows more about Smoke than most. She was fascinated when I told her about my closest friend and what he means to us n ours; their family living mixed in with ours. She sees him as a dark hero from some of the dime novels she's read."

"N what does she know about me."

Lucas took note of her puzzled dark eyes and wrinkling forehead. He relit his favored briar pipe.

"Mmmm... Not much. Only that you run this ranch, see to breeding some of the finest horses in the territory, mother this brood of children... And were missing two front teeth when I first laid eyes on you."

"Lucas Blake..."

She were half out of her chair to playful slap his shoulder when Sarah was opening the screened door n leading her mother onto the porch. Lucas quick stood, offering his hand to Kaitlyn Taylor. After settling the pale, thin woman on the pillow holding porch swing, Lucas looked to Sarah Kate.

"Linda Jean has a split skirt made for you in our room. After putting it on you'll look for Mr. Poe near front of the barn. He'll get Cherry n Patch ready for our late morning ride."

Linda Jean was on her feet.

"If he hasn't already."

She smiled at the red headed girl.

"Let's get you into that split skirt."

Sarah looked to her mother who gave her a gentle nod before following Miss Linda. After the screened door closed, Lucas looked to the mother of his oldest blood child.

"The warmer air doing you any good."

She always got lost in those green eyes as she looked back at him.

"Maybe a bit easier to breath."

"How's Sarah doing."

"Better than we expected. She slept well last night."

"And you."

"I hurt a bit."

"Laudanum."

"Not yet, but the need is there."

Lucas shifted a bit, listened for his wife's return and started again.

"Linda Jean has talked to Luna about your care. She'd like to be part of it if you invite her."

Kaitlyn Taylor just nodded.

"It'll be two n half, maybe three hours we'll be gone. Sarah needs to get comfortable on the back of a horse, like you need to get comfortable with Linda Jean n Luna."

"We've talked about this Luke. It will be fine. I trust in your judgement. You do what you need to for our daughter."

Lucas soft smiled. Sarah Kate pushed through the door, doing a quick turn to show her mother the new dark blue material split skirt and the white linen blouse she wore. Lucas was pleased she wore a red kerchief around her slender neck.

Her mother smiled.

"Don't we look like a lady of the west."...

*

Lucas eased Patch to an easy trot from the canter he'd gotten Sarah n Candy into. Smiling at his excited daughter, they slowed to a walk as they neared Lily's Pond.

"This where I spent some time when I was growing up here. It's the place J. D. sometimes brought the family to swim some and have a picnic. It was the last stop we made before he brought me to my new home from Independence after he offered to make me part of his family."

Lucas eased to a stop.

"He shared some words with me that have served me well all these years since. We all have special gifts Sarah Kate, mine was numbers and memory. Yours is an education in both schooling and the ways of the city: manners n the like. He told me to never wave my gifts over anyone, to be as close n like them as you could. I'm asking you to do the same Sarah Kate. Share what you know with your newfound family. Let the boys know some of the things you learned and the girls some of your special ways. Most often it's better to listen close n then speak your mind. You'll do well here, but this will have you accepted n loved."

The red-haired girl with her mother's nose n hair looked at her father. In the full minute of quiet, the only sounds were that of their horses slow catching their breath and the birds in the near trees.

"That's why you talk one way with Grandfather and Mama..."

Her green eyes slow twinkled.

"... N another with other folks."

She giggled and her father smiled...

-0-

Thoughts and speculation rippled through the Creek for several days after Lucas Blake's return. Who was that frail woman Lucas had near carried to their carriage n that pretty young gal that rode away in it with Anna Ruth Taylor. Joe Tinker was saying nothin' as a good part of town seen him leave just under a half n hour later with several trunks, hat boxes and one of three crates that arrived with Lucas in one of his buck boards. Then when Charles Beauchamps leather shop was closed up tight the next mornin'. Charlie hadn't closed his leather n saddle shop 'cept on Sundays and special holidays for ten years. He weren't saying nothin' either. And where in the blue blazes was Tiffany Ann Bennitt...

*

Sally Tart and Anna Ruth hardly left their fancied-up room in near two days. The pair had a lot of catching up to do, first in their missed happiness' n then in all what happened and the missing Tiffany Ann.

Sally's rare night off had turned to two, her missing her meeting with Stephen Bennitt and not being around the Diamond to maybe share what she knew... Or didn't. Yes, the town of Winding Creek was awash in speculation, rumors and gossip. So much so that few noticed the two well-dressed men and their leather traveling cases. No one noticed the fancy two gun rig the dark frock coat wearing shorter of the two wore. All that were seen was two derby hat wearing travelers or maybe drummers, checking into the smaller hotel on the north side of town past the sheriff's office...

*

George Winters took note of the two new arrivals at the Silver Dollar Saloon he ran.

Both were dressed more like they belonged at the Diamond, though one of their coats had a repaired seam sewed with thread that only near matched his coat. Both men wore boots that had seen better times, though they were polished. 'Big George' looked at Tina n motioned her to join them at their table.

It weren't ten minutes and Tina was introducing Lucy to the taller of the two. Big George was pleased. The men might or might not have much, but what they did would soon be in the hands of two of his best whores... and then his.

Lucy started paying a lot more attention to what the men were saying after she heard Lucas Blake's name the second time. The men were asking a lot of questions as they filled the whore's glasses as often as they filled their own. Lucy saw dollar signs when 'Skeeter' the mustache wearin' one of the two said 'That son of a bitch killet my brother'.

Three minutes later she excused herself to use the privy. A quick trip to see Sheriff Zeke 'Sleepy' Miller and she returned to their table with a fresh bottle of Big George's 'better' liquor; bought n paid for by Sleepy's double Eagle.

With-in thirty minutes, Sheriff Miller, Hoss Jenkins the blacksmith n sometimes Deputy and Joel Tinker were sharin' a drink with Big George as he checked the double barrel scatter gun under the bars scarred hard wood top. A few regulars seen what might be happening and slow moved to a safer spot to watch what might be going on.

Another bottle arrived at the whores table they shared with Skeeter n his brother.

"The black hearted bastard shot my brother n Alex on the Cincinatti Queen near three weeks ago."

John McCallister added with a growing slur.

"When me n Skeeter got word, we tracked down the Queen n learnt 'bout this cur dog Blake n tracked 'im here. Now we're here to make things right..."

He lifted his hands n acted like he was firing his matched pair of six guns.

"One... Two... He's dead."

Big George looked at the Sheriff who pursed his lips.

"Figure I heard enough."

George gathered his shot gun keepin' it low n behind as the four men slow moved to and then stood in a half circle around the two men's table. Tina n Lucy quick slipped away, Lucy gathering what money there were layin' close on the table. The space behind the two hard drinkin' strangers were cleared near as quick as the two whores that left it. John n Skeeter McCallister figured the men might be a little pissed they were takin' up so much time with the whores, maybe even one might belong to 'em. Sheriff Miller lifted the left side of his vest showing 'em his badge.

"You boys just put your hands in the air n stand up real slow. We're gonna give you a safe place to sleep tonight n make sure you get to see our friend Lucas first thing in the mornin'."

When John n his brother saw the area behind the four men clear out, they looked at each other, then both men quick stood as one. Joel Tinkers oak bar tamer landed square on Skeeters right shoulder as it was lifting his gun from its holster. Johns McCallister's openin' frock coat to clear the way to his twin pistol rig welcomed the comin' blast from George Winters double barrel, near cuttin' 'im in half. Skeeters eyes flashed as the end of Hoss Jenkins Navy Colt spit two bullets into his chest quick sendin' him to hell right behind his brother.

In less time then it takes to shoo a fly away, it was over...

-0-

Joe Tinker sat his mustang watchin' the first colors of sun-up staining the eastern skies. He was close enough to the L n L to see where whatever movement might come from in these wee hours of the mornin'. Didn't make much sense to knock on Smoke's door n maybe wake his family when the trouble was past. The main house were the same thing. It jist wouldn't do...

Soon enough he could see the small smoke trail comin' from the back of the main house. He eased his horse slow forward pushin' his hat well back so there'd be no mistakin' who he was. He were more 'en pleased to see the wisp of grey slipping from the bunk houses black stove pipe chimney. Tom Poe was the better man to see. He eased 'Peach' to the door of the bunk house.

"Tom Poe."

He were a little surprised his voice slipped out a louder then he intended. The bunk house door quick opened, Tom pulling his leather suspenders up over his shoulders.

"That you Tinker."

"It is."

Joe Tinker this early meant nothin' good.

"How bad is it."

"Mostly done n over with. But we both know Mr. Blake. There were trouble last night n his name were involvet."

Tom Poe shook his head n spit.

"Ain't no way to start a day. Step on down while I get my shirt on. We'll both go the house."

Joe Tinker didn't like the sound of that.

"Mind if I stay here."

The hopeful question was met with a stony glare.

"N make Lucas come down here."

"Might be best if Mrs. Blake is up n about."

Deep sighin', Tom Poe went back inside. Joe Tinker stepped down n waited. Tom stuck his head out and waved the nervous man inside...

*

Lucas stood stone faced as Joe Tinker talked of the last night happenin's at the Silver Dollar.

"Both dead."

"Yes Sir."

"You sure they were alone."

"Hotel clerk said they were alone when they checket in."

"Zeke."

"Still sniffin' around some. You know Sheriff Miller."

Lucas grunted.

"That's why he was brought here."

"Yes Sir."

Lucas looked from Joe Tinker to Tom Poe.

"You boys ate."

"I got coffee brewin' Lucas."

He looked to Joe.

"You."

"I'll be havin' coffee with Tom if that's ok."

"Good enough... And thank you Joe. You get some rest after tellin' Zeke I'll be in around ten."...

*

This mornin's ride seemed longer than the many years Lucas had traveled it in the past. Patch knew the way after well some twelve years going ta Winding Creek or coming home. He ran his hand along the black horse's neck.

"You been good to me boy; we covered a lot of miles. Remember that first trip from the ranch. Wasn't what it is now back then... "

The melancholy man grunted.

"... Been one helluva ride ain't it Patch."

He'd promised Linda Jean he'd be spending more time at the ranch. And to tell the truth, he wasn't going to miss the ride or the time in town as much as some might figure. A walk away farm boy with two silver dollars in his pocket and not knowing where he was heading or what he might find.

Lucas Blake looked up into the deep blue sky.

"I been blessed or going to be sent to hell?"

He chuckled. It was nice to sometimes wonder...

*

Many folks of Winding Creek watched Lucas Blake ride into town. A few knew him as the very young man that some called Ol' J. D.'s shadow; watched him grow into the man he now was. Most knew him as the man that you met with when coming to Winding Creek to start a new life as a Proprietor or just to barter a deal for some land to farm and raise a family. Lucas was always fair, lending a few dollars when you needed it and waiting for his when things got tough. He owned a good bit of the town, no one knew for certain or for sure how much. Most were beholding to him in one way or another. And yes, more than a few of the ladies knew him better than maybe they should, even a soft smiling wife or two...

"Morning Lucas."

Sheriff Zeke Miller quick stood and offered his hand.

"Morning Zeke."

For the next twenty or so minutes Lucas asked n Sheriff Miller answered. When the tall, wide shouldered man rose to leave he looked hard at Zeke.

"We'll be needin' a full time Deputy. I'd see it as a favor if you found one. Maybe someone you know from outside the Creek. You can offer 'im pretty much the same as I've given you."

Zeke 'Sleepy' Miller nodded n smiled.

For the rest of the late morning and early afternoon Lucas met with each of the Town Council members n several business owners where they made their living. Each enjoyed their alone time with Lucas, sharing a few questions and learning what the town's patriarch was thinking on as he gathered their thoughts before making any final decisions. Some even offered a drink after being invited to join him at the Diamond after dinner...

Helga Schmidt flew out of the kitchen when Lucas finally settled at his favored table in the Diamond's restaurant. Fresh strudel, still warm from her making it when she got word he was in town were served. She was the first to be told about his newfound daughter. The older woman's eyes glowed when he shared that fact, remembering how he brought her n Fritz's family back together and the position the family held in Winding Creek...

Stephen 'Quick' Bennitt was a little put off it was late afternoon when Lucas finally summoned him from the bank. After all he was the President to their bank and husband to Tiffany Ann. He'd been with the Blake family a lot of years.

He was stunned to see Smoke Garcia sitting in the corner of Lucas Blake's closed draped office. Lucas wasn't mincing his words.

"A bit less than twelve years ago, I gave you the choice to stay or go. You chose to stay. You became a decent husband to Tiffany Ann and a fair father. Now I'm making that same offer again. You can stay, after giving that no account whatever of yours his leave Stephen. From now on, once a week you'll be answering to Sally; quietly of course. I'll not jeopardize your standing in the Creek."

Lucas let his words linger in the very still air.

"Tiffany will not be back. She's chosen to stay in the East and travel abroad. I'm telling you this, so you know. Only the three people in this room will know this fact. Smoke assures me that and any other personal business we share will remain in this room... Do we understand each other."

Stephen Bennitt saw his world changing in front of him.

"You were and can remain a member of the L n L family Quick. You just have to remember what we were, not what you've become."

Lucas stood.

"You have till the weekend to let us know what you decide."...

Sally Tart was a little miffed that Lucas spoke to Joel Tinker first when he finally came to the Diamond. She felt her cheeks color as the two men chatted before a smiling Joel poured Lucas a Lernids. When he took his drink, Lucas came to her.

"You'll take that pretty ass of yours to our bedroom above my office."

The tips of his long fingers trailed down her face to lift her chin to look deeply into her eyes.

"We have some catching up to do before we talk."

The green-eyed man dropped his eyes to the top of her breasts and then looked back into hers...

Smoke Garcia stood at the end of the bar as the men of means entered the Diamond. He watched them enjoy their drinks as they chatted amongst themselves, none lingering to close.

He took note of Sheriff Miller in a fresh washed n hot ironed dark blue shirt, clean shaven and his worn boots polished. He knew what 'Sleepy' was thinking. He also knew that if he thought too much n maybe got greedy, he'd have to kill 'em cold...

Anna Ruth Taylor was alone in her and Sallys fresh painted room. Sally had made it special for her while she traveled with Lucas Blake. She also knew that Sally had spent the late afternoon and early evening in Lucas Blakes bedroom. When Sally had returned to the little world they shared, she was flushed, her breasts marked and pussy swollen. But most of all she was smiling like she did after they made love the first time on Anna Ruths return.

As she helped Sally with her sponge bath for the upcoming 'meeting', her lover explained that Lucas was going to give her the dress shop to run and two of the sewing machines they'd brought back to the Creek. All she had to do was teach the Murphy girls the proper way to use the foot powered treadle machines and help with the many designs she'd seen in the east. She'd soon have her own place to stay, and they could be together for as long as they chose.

When Anna Ruth asked if they would still share Lucas Blakes bed, Sally reached between her thighs ran her fingers over her bare little pussy.

"Would you ever deny your Sir."...

It was after Lucas Blake had shared his thoughts of how he wanted to see their town continue to grow... Enjoyed the puffing of chests as he shared many of the town's finest suggestions from earlier in the day in those thoughts... And during the shaking of hands and slapping of each other's backs that those that had been invited to the closed-door meeting quieted to see Sally Tart lead five whores down the steps inside the Diamond.

Even knowing Miss Sally was off limits, the men enjoyed the generous view of Sallys blazing red hair, red tinted lips and pale skin under the sinful green dress she wore.

The whores, two from the Diamond, two from the Silver Dollar and a new gal none of them knew wore even less. Pale skinned breasts were holstered in tight bodices, their nipples barely covered to make the men wonder. Their long dresses, all higher than they should be, many open in front to just above their stocking covered knees...

The men looked from the ladies to Lucas and quickly back to the ladies. When Miss Sally sided Lucas and kissed his cheek, it was Charles Beauchamp that made the first move, taking Tina's hand and easing her close. The other whores were quickly chosen as a few men left, nodding their goodbyes to Lucas who they knew would understand and a few others that would simply wait their turn...

*

Lucas had taken a bath with Anna Ruth earlier in the special made rain room. Try as she might, she couldn't get his spent pecker hard again. Her and Sally had taken everything the man had to give n then some.

Lucas was heading home...

Linda Jean would be pleased he'd only be spending three days a week at his office in the Creek, more only if matters required it. The towns Council and the few others accepted the changes, noting that Smoke Garcia was standing some ten feet away when Lucas announced them. If there were a meeting needed, a note would be slipped through his office door. Trouble would be sent to the ranch through Joe Tinker. Sheriff Miler would be looking for an experienced Deputy to assist him full time. They'd deal with the rumors of war if and when the time came, the town standing united to preserve it.

The explanation of Tiffany Anns absence was readily accepted, though many would miss the saucy blondes sometimes outrageous behaviors...

"I'm semi-retired Patch, much like you'll be when Linda Jean finally gifts me that beautiful white n gold gelding."

He leaned over the one companion that had heard all his thoughts and carried him through every change since his return.

"I'm not supposed to know so that's another secret we'll share."

Checking one last time the string tied n paper wrapped moccasins and special buck skin britches he had Charles make, he eased the fifteen-year-old horse into a canter.

Lucas Blake had picked up J. D.'s dream and seen it through...

END