Back ta Winding Creek Ch. 06 - Anna Ruth

Lucas Blake might have had three, maybe four hours of sleep. Linda Jean was hard sleeping, her breathing coming deep from inside. She laid curled up tight, her smooth bottom pressed up against him. Deep asleep. Peaceful. Content: it were something that happened rare as a southern breeze on a cold day in January.

He eased out of their bed being as quiet as could be, collected his britches n boots n tip toed out of their room. After slipping on his pants, he gathered his pipe n tobacco from under the hanging Colt in it's soft shining holster. It'd been a long three weeks since him n Smoke rode a short distance from the house n practiced their shooting together. Smoke was faster then he was now, though the big man sometimes let him win. Lucas was still more accurate.

Neither man spoke of which was more important, knowing just what it took when it come time to test their mettle.

The night air was cool around him as he settled on the porch. He glanced at the near empty bottle of Lernid's and chuckled just a bit. Luis had done the most damage to that bottle. He was a little unsure of something, but not willing to say much. Lucas figured he'd say what he had to when he were sure of the whatever's and not before.

Lucas had avoided the conversations that weren't going to be easy until he had the chance to tell Linda Jean he would be gone a good two weeks, maybe more. They hadn't been apart more then a few days since they'd been married over eleven years ago.

Linda Jean... She'd only gotten prettier over time. Her bottom filled out nicely, her breasts heavier. What he liked best were how her eyes had softened as she matured.

She stayed busy around the Ranch, seeing to everything from the gardens to the barn to her fancy horse raising: Most important to Lucas was their children. She was a better than good mother to his, Tiffany Ann's and even Luna's when needed.

She'd settled some too, though the last few days had been hard on her. He was not pleased with those older and should know better that come to the ranch stirring up her loving way...

As he pulled on his boots, he started thinking about the night before. She'd changed even more in their bedroom then the rest of their shared lives: Her wanting and needing far more then she used to. He weren't the young buck he'd been twelve years ago; though what he used to do all night now took him all night to do. Last night was proof of that.

She been clingy after he got back. It were a bit tedious, but she needed the extra attentions. After they'd slipped into their bed the clingy turned to downright need. She quick started with her kisses and trying to get as close to him as she could before she just rolled him onto his back and did what she wanted. Her mouth were everywhere. His neck, shoulders, chest, the wet tip of her tongue moving slow along his scar; lingering on first one and then attacking his other nipple. When her hand found his slow growing cock, she gentle stroked it a few times until her fingers trailed lower to cradle his balls. She easy rolled them in her fingers, as her mouth moved up to cover his again.

As they shared their breath, she made low wanting sounds into his mouth. He'd enjoyed the warmth of her silken skin, the fullness of her breasts, the tightening of their dark tips. It weren't long before she straddled his hips and lifted her near prefect bottom. Filling her hand, she guided the now hard swollen end of his cock between the slick folds of her pussy above the wet opening to her body. Moving it slow up and down, she tilted her hips before she rubbed the leaking tip against her hard, near white clitoris. She stared down at him, her eyes afire and slow biting on her lower lip as she centered him and slow, so very slow... Eased him deep inside. That woman rode him like a wanting she devil til she grabbed tight to him and mumbled her pleasures. It weren't more then a minute and her hips started moving again...

He were thoughtful filling his pipe when Linda Jean stepped through the screened door. When he turned to look at her, he was more then pleased. She was wearing her special times robe, rubbing the sleep from her eyes.

"Why you up so early Husband."

She settled herself onto his lap and into his arms.

"N not wearing a shirt."

She nipped at his bare shoulder. He settled his chin over the top of her head as he cuddled her close.

"After all that loving we shared tonight I thought for sure we'd not be up til the rooster crowed its second time."

Lucas soft rocked her in his arms. Her words softened some.

"Is it that bad Husband?"

Her warm breath soft washed over his scarred chest.

"Not really Wife. Just something I know you aren't gonna like."

She tried crawling deeper into her man.

"How long you going to be gone Lucas."...

*

Connie moved quiet through the house to the kitchen. Some three minutes later she had the wood burning hard so it would quick settle down some and she'd be able to set the heat of the black cast iron stove proper for cooking. As she hand-pumped the water in the sink into one pitcher n then the other, she thought back to living at home: having to fetch their water outside from the hand dug well. 'Modern times n having the money to enjoy them.'

After setting the first large pot of coffee, she saw the back of the ranch slow getting light. Hearing no one stirring about yet, she headed out to the front porch to watch the rising sun. She loved seeing the sun rising n setting at the L & L ranch. This were the best time of her life: never missing a meal, her room warm n bed soft.

She eased the screened door open n quick saw Miss Linda curled up and sleeping in her husband's lap. Mr. Blake soft smiled n winked. Connie was slow getting red faced seeing the most powerful man she'd ever knowed sitting bare chested with his wife near the same. The thin material she wore was little more than a heavy blue mist covering her legs, bottom and what she could see of her chest and back.

Mr. Blake mouthed the word 'blanket' n Connie hurried to fetch the quilt folded neat at the foot of their bed. Mr. Blake watched her close as she gentle draped the sky-blue n yellow colored material over Mrs. Blake n covered his arms. Still a little stunned, she hurried back to the kitchen...

*

It weren't to awful long before Lucas heard the house slow coming to life. The opening n slamming of the back door said the children were waking up. Stiff as he were, he slow stood and carried Linda Jean back to their bed. He was gentle laying her down when she hung onto him pulling him close, whispering for him to come back to bed...

------ 0 ------

Sally Tart was having a hard time focusing on the latest novel that Lucas had suggested she read. Anna Ruth was asleep in her bed, the store-bought sheets n thin blanket tangled up around her hip. Sally liked the way Ruth was sleeping, cuddled up to her pillow, her light-colored hair still mussed from their very late night of making love. Her smooth, fresh cream tinted leg lay over the light green blanket. The blanket hid her other leg being tucked between her thighs and snug around her breasts. Sally could only imagine her small taut nipples hidden underneath.

Sally had learned Ruth were more n likely a submissive, even more so than Tiffany Ann. She enjoyed when Sally started hard telling her what to do for her and to her body. After all the intimate time they'd spent together, Ruth readily told Sally what it was she liked and needed.

Anna Ruth Taylor was no whore, but could be if need called for it. Sally was going to see that need never happened. She knew Lucas more then enjoyed the very pretty young woman. Sally's hope was that Lucas would be the last man to ever touch and enjoy Anna Ruth.

All this was only thought for now. Sally would have to discuss it with Lucas, get his blessing and then she'd learn if Ruth might be a masochist as well. She wanted to read Juliette by Marqis De Sade again, preferring it over his Justine. Lucas treasured both those novels as much as she did her rare copy of Fanny Hill that Lucas had gifted her. She saw it as an outline for her life.

Sally trembled at the thought.

Anna Ruth was educated, but not the reader she n Lucas were. She could be straight forward or coy, which ever when it suited her wants and desires. Well mannered, she was more knowing with the well to do than Sally was: far more than most anyone in Winding Creek and maybe in Independence as well.

Sally only had a few problems with their possible future together. Would Ruth be content with life in Winding Creek? Could she ( through Lucas of course ) find a way to make a living if she wanted to? Or would she be content with Sally and her life as it were?

Ruth turned some, changing her sleeping way. Sally could almost see clear between her now parted thighs. The crease that started high between the wispy, darker colored hair was still puffy n just slightly open, the slow drying wet catching the lamp light from next to her.

Sally shifted in her chair a bit, sliding her eyes over the front view of her Lover. Her light brown hair feathered out over the pillow; her closed eyes bring attention to her long lashes. She had a small, sloped nose over not to thin lips. A bit of the sun shaded her face. Her sensitive neck had some of that same shading that disappeared just below it. Her skin turned soft cream color then, swallowing up most of her lean body. Nice round, firm breasts with small light pink aureola's that you'd be hard pressed to see where their edge first turned pink and then near red at their high, now resting tips. Sally loved the way they'd lengthened and got so hard the young woman would sigh near every time you touched them.

She admired the tight skin of her tummy, and the tiny, slight raised knot just above center where her hips started gentle widening. She was past beautiful there, the long wispy curls darkening a bit as she looked lower...

"Hmmmmm, what are you looking at now Sally."

"You princess."

Ruth turned her cheek against the pillow.

"I'm no princess Lover."

She lifted the sheet n covered her body. Sally stood, crossed the few steps between them and settled on the beds edge. Bending close, she kissed Ruth's cheek before gently blowing in her ear.

"You're a Princess to me... My Princess."

Ruth turned her face into Sally's, sharing a long string of kisses that were gentle, soft and slow deepening...

------ 0 ------

Tiffany Ann had left the ranch early: wearing her split skirt and riding Cherry as she was returning to town. Lucas had talked to her just after his breakfast. She was free to gather the things she needed for their trip. Lucas had asked her to have a new coat sewed and made with the same material pants. Linda Jean would be fashioning him two new shirts. She'd be free to ask Sally about riverboat traveling after he returned to town and told Sally they were going.

The excited woman already had a new dress in mind and two others near made that she'd change a bit. She was to be Lucas Blakes wife! It might be only for this trip, but she was going to make the best of it. She'd always dreamed of going east, even before Lucas had returned from his time there. Dressing stylish, fine food, music, tall buildings... Everything she ever read or heard about. Sarah would run the shop...

*

Joe Tinker was tending the front walk when Tiffany Ann rode up. He near dropped his broom hurrying over to help her with Cherry.

"Morning Mrs. Bennett."

"Good morning, Mr. Tinker."

The older man was surprised she spoke to him in the polite.

"Nice ride from the ranch."

"Near perfect thank you."

He quietly watched as she slipped on her lace gloves.

"Should I stable Cherry?"

"Please..."

She turned.

"... I have work to do now."

Joe Tinker shook his head as he led Cherry into the livery.

*

Lucas Blake was sitting the porch after his late breakfast, thoughtful as he were filling the newest pipe his children had gifted him. He enjoyed the quiet ruckus his and the Garcia's kids made on the side of his home. The chill in the air had quick been chased away by the fresh scented, warmer air of spring. When the screen door soft opened and Connie stepped quiet to set a fresh cup of coffee, Lucas motioned with his pipe for her to sit in the chair opposite him across the small table.

"Pretty Mornin'."

"Y-yes Sir."

He struck the sulfur tipped match, letting it burn until the flame were only fueled by wood and lit his pipe as he turned to look at her.

"You're well liked here Connie. Linda Jean thinks the world of you: the way you know what she needs doing without being told."

The top of the pipe burned red before a blue wisp of smoke rose up in front of Lucas Blake's face.

"I like you too."

The young girls face shaded a bit.

"Connie, you're gonna hear n see different things here. Some things you seen before, some you haven't, like this morning."

The now red-faced girl looked down.

"No one's saying you shouldn't hear or see these things. What I am saying to you when you see things, maybe hear others, they should stay here... Right in your pretty little head and Never leaving this ranch."

The gnawing at her lip girl slow looked up.

"Y-yes Sir."

Lucas held her pretty, now frightened eyes.

"I know we talked some about this when you first came. I'll not be talking with you again about it."

He soft smiled before giving her leave with a wink n gentle nod of his head...

*

Luis Tee was leaving the barn after looking for Blue there and in the bunk house. When he seen the Pinto in the corral earlier, he figured he might be sleeping late in the comfort of a roof covered night. After asking two of the horse working ranch hands, he looked for Tom Poe n couldn't find him. That made two oddities this very morning. As he headed back to the house, he saw Smoke leaning close to his porch sitting son in law. As he neared, he called out to his longtime friend.

"Mornin' Smoke."

The sober look he saw in return of his greeting didn't sit well with Luis. Glancing at Lucas, he knew there were trouble afoot as he rose and both men stepped off the porch toward him.

"Let's walk Luis."

The three men headed away from the house, the hard quiet bothering Luis more than a little. Well enough away from the porch and the corral, Lucas pulled up short,

his stormy green eyes meeting Luis Tee's questioning dark ones.

"Your friend Blue is dead."

Luis hard looked at Lucas and then Smoke. He saw no understanding in either man.

"First off he weren't my friend. Secondly..."

"Then why did you bring him to the ranch Luis... to my home."

Luis was fast getting his back up. He didn't like what were being said let alone of how it was being told to him. The now hard-set jaw man lifted his finger to make his point when Smoke Garcia quick stepped between him n Lucas Blake. Luis knew the face well that was staring back at him. There was bad trouble about. Luis hard thought some, then eased back a bit.

"We found 'im camped at Lily's pond, me n Debra Ann. When I pushet 'bout why he were there, he were real easy in his tellin' me. He had my family Bible and a few other memorables with him. Debr.... We invited 'im to stay with us a day er two as a thank you after his long travelin' to bring 'em to me. Him stoppin' here with us was only to git a night's rest before we all headed back home."

Lucas light touched Smoke's shoulder. With his coal black eyes still hard. Smoke stepped just off to the side.

"The boy was thinking he was gonna Fuck your wife n then come back here and do the same to Linda Jean."

Luis Tee felt the air rush out of him. He slow sagged a bit, his anger fast slipping free.

"H-how do you know that."

Smokes growl answering made it certain n true.

"I heered 'im say it."

Luis shifted his gaze from Lucas to Smoke, then let it fall to the ground in front of him. Lucas, his voice settled a touch, but still hard sounding asked his father-in-law the last question he would for a long time.

"Why would you invite a stranger to My home, and then to yours for a day or two."...

*

Lucas Blake were hard trying to smile at his and the others around his home. He and Smoke set the porch, Lucas with a drink and Smoke with his third cup of coffee. Luis had walked away earlier from the two men. They went looking for Tom Poe. The new titled ranch foreman had listened quiet, mostly answering Lucas's questions and learning how his life was fixin' to change.

"Have you seen Blue."

Ted Poe looked quick at Smoke before meeting Lucas's paled green eyes.

"He left early this mornin' just before sunup. Said he wanted to git movin' again n I was to thank Luis n Miss Debra for their hospitality. He asked about selling a horse. Damn fool only wanted a hundred dollars for that Pinto. 'Travelin' money' he called it. I gave it to 'im n he lit out on that Chestnut he was dragging behind 'im when he rode up."

Lucas nodded in their shared understanding.

"How long you been with us Tom."

"Be eight years come fall."

"Damn, it don't seem that long. You plan on staying."

Tom Poe was quick with his answer.

"Long as you n yore Missus will have me. I like how it is here."

Lucas Blake extended his hand. Tom Poe took it.

"You any good with a gun."

"Better with a rifle then a six shooter."...

Tom Poe was grateful after the two men left him. His pay was bumped up thirty dollars a month. His new title didn't mean much to 'im, but the fact he had it and he were to start working with Smoke on his shooting gave him a sense of being a bigger part of the L n L Ranch... And with that feelin' came a quiet, settling peace...

*

It was late afternoon when Lucas saw Luis Tee again when he strode up to him.

"I made a damn fool mistake Lucas, plain n simple. The only thing I can do now is offer my apologies n swear it'll never happen again."

Lucas took his fathers-in-laws offered hand.

"What's done is done. I do have need with a problem though."

Luis Tee nodded his head.

"I've already spoke to Smoke... Tom Poe the same. I'll be leaving for a spell, not sure for how long... Two things: One, I want every mustang mare with-in fifty miles gathered n bred with our best jack donkeys... And two, I'd take it as favor if you could keep Mama away from the ranch until I return. She'll have plenty to do watching over yours n tending your wants n needs. Smoke will keep watch here with Tom. If there's need, Smoke will send word to you."

Luis Tee was hurt. Lucas could see it in his eyes.

"Linda Jean will be hurried in her ways while I'm gone. Luna will keep an eye on her. I Do Not want her having to deal with anything she don't have to. She'll have the ranch to run and her horses to watch over."

Luis hard swallowed. If he hadn't been tryin' to please Debra Ann...

*

The porch was a little unsettled that evening. Lucas, with Linda Jean sitting close, was slow answering the questions being asked the best he could with what he knew for sure. Luna stood next to the sitting Smoke, her hand on his shoulder. Mr. & Mrs. Tee were slow rocking in the porch swing, Luis listening close. He'd passed on the offered drink choosing coffee instead. Debra Ann sat mostly quiet, knowing there were something more going on then what was being said. Connie sat the opposite side of the door, Tom Poe next to her. She'd fetch hot coffee or tea when the need came. Tom sat quiet having been told most of this earlier, still more then a little surprised that he'd been asked to the porch by the soft smiling Connie.

Blue's early leaving was dismissed with a wave of Luis Tee's hand and his short comment, 'He was a restless as a man waiting' to be hung... Most probably of the same character.' Luna had soft squeezed Smoke's shoulder when it were said.

"I know this was unexpected, but the business that needs to be taken care of has to be worked out and handled by me."

He looked at his soft smiling wife.

"If there was another way, I'd sure do it."

He paused.

"The last thing I'll say is this; I want all this to stay here on this porch. The ladies will answer the children's questions when there asked. I suspect it'll be over a week before they'll start asking."

Only Linda Jean soft chuckled.

"I'll be going to town first thing in the morning. I'll be back to say my goodbyes before I leave. If there's anything else to be said or asked, we'll do it then."

Lucas slow stood, offering his hand to Linda Jean. Together they left the porch for their sometimes walk. The others quiet like went about their business...

------ 0 ------

Sally Tart noted the way Tiffany Ann was sashaying around. She'd been in Lucas's room, sorting through his things, checking over his clothes. She answered Sally's 'Welcome back' with a quick dismissive smile. She hadn't bothered to see her husband since her return from the ranch. Both her girls were busy around the dress shop...

Sally tried not caring, but she surely did. Even Ruth was pushed out of her mind as she looked out the window, not really seeing the goings on below and hard wondering. The younger woman pressed up against her from behind and kissed her neck.

"I don't like what I'm seeing Sweet."

Sally turned to meet her new lovers' hazel eyes.

"Sorry."

She shook her head.

"It's just when Tiffany Ann is acting like she is right now, there's something up and it's rattled me a bit."

Ruth light stroked her cheek.

"Can I help in some way."

She light kissed Sally's cheek, the tip of her nose and then her other cheek before covering her mouth with hers. Sally responded, but not like Ruth was expecting... Or wanted.

"You need to tell me just what's going on Sal. We been cuddled up here for near three days, you only leaving to work and to order us some food. You say you want me to stay but you aren't sharing all the facts with me. Why is Tiffany Ann so important to you?"

Sally slow closed her eyes.

"I wanted to speak with Lucas before we had this talk."

"So where is he."

"The ranch... With his wife and more children than I can figure; his wife's and Tiffany Ann's."

Ruth slow backed up into a chair at the small table they not only ate from but had made love on and over more than once.

"W-what's that make you."

Sally slow walked to sit in the other chair.

"His redhead."

She soft chuckled.

"I've been in love with Lucas Blake since that night."

She slow met Ruth's listening eyes.

"Right through that door and into the Diamond. I was standing on the stairs when all hell broke loose. Five men died that night. Shot and killed. Lucas never batted an eye after the smoke settled. He walked over to the man that use to own most all this and shot him cold. That man had a partner, Jack Seasons."

Sally reached across the table and covered Ruth's hand, still holding Ruth's questioning eye with hers

"Jack married Lucas Blake's sister: treated her more than poorly. Some say that was what caused her father J. D. to take ill like he did. The one's that know for sure aren't saying. Well, J. D. had sent Lucas off to lawyering school: had some kind of apprenticeship back east with who ever signed that paper that sits framed on his wall."

Sally lifted Ruth's trembling hand and kissed the back of it before pressing her cheek into Ruth's palm.

"Lucas hadn't parked his boots under his own dinner table, when he heard what Jack Seasons had done to Tiffany Ann. He rode into town to confront him. Jack was foolish enough to draw on Lucas."

Sally deep sighed.

"I came to town shortly after that. Irish Mike gave me a job. It wasn't a week later Lucas came to town again. Mathew Billing's tried his luck at killing him. You can see Lucas is still here and you'll never hear much about Billings. That's how Lucas got that gawd awful scar on his chest. If it wasn't for Lukes adopted mother being so close in town, he would of died that night, right there in the Sheriff's Office."

Sally leaned over the table and soft kissed the frozen face of Anna Ruth Taylor.

"You sure you want to hear all this?"

Ruth shook her head, but her mouth said yes.

"Irish Mike made an offer to a Jacob Russell to kill Lucas, not knowing the man was here to go to work with Lucas... That was what led to the McCarthy night massacre."

"I-I don't understand what all that has to do with you."

"After Lucas shot Mike, I went and got him a drink. Seemed like the thing to do at the time. I was enthralled by Lucas Blake... Madly in love with his good looks, hard set justice and power. Same as you were three nights ago. But us making love came far after that drink."...

------ 0 ------

Lucas sat at his desk after leaving the L & L earlier that morning. Linda Jean was as happy as he'd seen her in some time. He wanted to believe it was all the love making they'd done, but he knew better. Linda was pleased that her life was set right after Lucas got home and more importantly, he'd given his word he'd be home more often after his trip.

He looked the riverboat schedule that were left in a envelope pushed through his mail slot. Another envelope were laying on top of it, postage stamped and a little worse for wear. It held the follow up letter to the one delivered by the lovely Anna 'Ruth' Taylor.

Printed and folded inside three sheets of the heavy paper, it simply said 'The Grand. 3rd of next month. Cincinatti, Ohio.'

There was no real need to burn it; Lucas did anyway. After figuring the date, the riverboats available n leaving some extra time just in case: Lucas penned a letter to Oliver in Independence. Whoever had delivered the schedule would be looking for it soon after he opened the maroon drapes in his office. After finishing it, he quick penned a note to Sally Tart.

'Early dinner.

5

Alone.'

He folded it and slipped it into another envelope. Opening his door to the Palace, he motioned to Joel Tinker. The big man with gold n blue garters today around his thick arms came as quick as casual allowed.

"Make sure Miss Sally gets this."

The heavy man nodded.

"I'd appreciate a fresh pot of coffee and some strudel if Helga might have some."

"Right away Mr. Blake."...

*

Tiffany Ann was fussing with alterations to the cardinal red satin dress trimmed in black. She wondered about the low, square bodice. Should she leave it be or put some lace to make it more conservative. Lucas liked seeing the top of her breasts. He always had. But she was going as his wife. Would he still want her making as much of her seen as he did around the 'Creek'.

She knew he was back, the door through the closet to his office had been locked: his way of saying he was busy, and she'd have to wait to see him. She knew Sally wasn't around this early. Seemed she had built a little love nest with a new arriving, younger woman.

Tiff had to wonder if it were a new working girl or something else. Didn't matter, it was her going east with Lucas. She went to the three-sided standing mirrors and turned a few times. She swished the satin just above her moccasined feet. There was nothing to be done with the hem lines until Robert finished making the new high heeled shoes she ordered yesterday. She pushed a bit until he swore they be ready today by noon...

*

Sally had gotten little sleep the night before. Ruth was stand offish when she had to go work at the Diamond, which didn't make her night go any better. There were some new men that had business in town, and by the way they were dressed, had money to spend. It was her, Babet and Luanne's job to get them to spend as much of it as they could. Besides, a little distraction would do her good.

It was late when she got back to her room n Ruth was asleep. At least she acted as she was, her hugging Sally's pillow with her back toward Sally's side of the bed. After getting ready for bed n hiding her more then red hair under a special made night cap, she tried kissing the back of Ruth's neck. Her rolling her shoulder away told Sally she wasn't ready to make nice yet...

*

Luis sat quiet in the fresh cleaned carriage as Debra Ann said her goodbyes. They hadn't talked since leaving the porch the night before: her trying too, him dismissing her efforts. It was Tiffany Anns oldest, John that helped his still young grandmother into the carriage. All the children had stepped clear, waving as Luis slow eased the carriage away. They were two hours away, near halfway home when Debra Ann started on her husband.

"I don't know what's eating at you old man, but you'd best be saying it before we get home. If this is the way things are going to be, I'll head right back to the main ranch."

Luis didn't look at his wife: didn't slow the carriage.

"You'll not be welcomet at the ranch til Lucas gets back."

His now opened mouth wife light slapped his shoulder. Luis hard stopped the carriage.

"Blue is dead. Smoke killed 'im after he heard 'im talkin' to his horse. He's layin' somewhere in the flats where Smoke dragget him to rot."

He slow turned his blazing black eyes on Debra Ann.

"We made a foolish decision bringin' him to the L & L. He was thinkin' he mite sleep or whatever with you n then go back n take Linda Jean. I'm just as guilty, maybe wantin' to see where our little game was goin'."

Debra Ann held her tongue. Luis was far past mad. For the first time in her life, she was a little afraid of her man.

"You'll soften your ways with me n all the men workin' our ranch. I let things go to far Debra Ann. Lucas is pissed, n more that, bad hurt: at me for bringin' that no account to the ranch n you for causin' our daughter pain."

Debra Ann dropped her eyes from her husband's.

"I-I..."

"Hush. We'll talk later... After we both had time to figure on what's done n what's gonna be done."

The carriage hard started as Debra Ann's tears slow fell down her paled cheeks...

*

Lucas was talking with a member of the town council he'd sent for when the gentle tinkling of his bell broke the low talking between the two men.

"In."

A very tall, skinny young man slow entered the office.

"M-mornin' Mr. Blake. Mr. Oliver asked me stop by. Pay his respects."

Lucas stepped from behind his desk and gave the letter to the hat in hands man. A five-dollar coin was offered. He took the letter and refused the coin.

"I can't take that Sir. I'm only doin' the job that I was asket to."

Lucas nodded and checked his seldom worn pocket watch.

"Train isn't leaving for an hour or so. You had something to eat."

"N-no Sir."

"Follow me."

Lucas led the poorly dressed, but clean clothes wearing man to the door leading to the Diamond. Joel was close to the end of the long mahogany bar. Lucas guided the man towards him.

"Mr. Tinker, this is a friend of mine. Would you ask Helga to see he's well fed before the train leaves."

The wide-eyed man smiled back into the slow closing door.

"Now where were we John."...

Lucas saw each member of the council, sharing pretty much the same facts. The time he was going to gone varied by the trust Lucas had in each man. That, and a different reason to each for his travel. Sally and her whores would be charged with listening to whatever gossip that might be said. Those words, if there were any, would tell who held his confidences close and who might have a big mouth...

*

Ruth was slow brushing her long hair, bathed in the light of the late morning sun through the lace covered window, when she heard the soft tapping at her door. Sally was restless sleeping in their bed. Ruth quiet crossed the room and eased the door open just a crack.

"I have something for Miss Sally."

Ruth knew of Sally's favored barkeep, Joel Tinker. She opened the door a bit wider, wearing a sweet smile above her thin robe.

"As you can see, she is still sleeping. Is there something I can help you with."

Joel took his charge at the Diamond very seriously. The sight of Miss Sally's 'friend' wearing a light robe and her offering him a quick peek into the room may have clouded his judgment a bit. He soft smiled and handed Ruth the envelope.

"From Mr. Blake."

A delicate hand took the envelope before gentle closing the door. Joel was halfway down the stairs when Sally's friend's very nice breasts under the thin material quick fled from his mind. He was to make sure Sally got the envelope...

Ruth rolled the envelope in her hands, her thoughts again going over the new facts she'd learned.

She had gotten very close to Sally: might be falling in love with her. She'd shared many near perfect intimate times with her, and some very good ones with her and Lucas Blake. She remembered her charge from Miss Molly. There had been nothing that might give her notice of Lucas's feelings about much of anything other then he loved and cared for his women and family... And had many of them.

She laid the envelope on the small table, drumming her fingers over it. She understood most of what Sally shared. She too was enamored with the tall, wide shouldered man with the beautiful green eyes. She'd never seen a man killed. She had struggled with Sally's telling of it, seeing how it made her feel: a soft color coming to her cheeks, her scent slow getting a bit stronger.

Ruth wished she'd shared some intimate time with her then and not let her thinking wander like she did. She always liked how a man with power made her feel. She'd met some when courting, and later during her short marriage. Miss Molly knew what these kinds of men liked and thrived with that knowing. She wondered about Sally, about Lucas Blake...

Crossing the floor to her sleeping Lover, she lite kissed her cheek, ran her fingers over Sally's shoulder.

"Time to get up Sally. You've got a note from Lucas."...

*

Linda Jean walked the ranch some, enjoying the faster coming flowers, gathering a few for their dinner table. A quiet had come over her. She'd worn her husband to a frazzle the past few days, their intimate time both loving and a bit racy. They'd shared thoughts about the ranch, Tiffany Ann, her mother and father. As she looked around, she loved what she was seeing. No where in all her years had she ever dreamed things would be like they were. Beautiful home, huge barn, her dreams of raising horses; all now right around her.

She had the man of all her wishes and prayers: and he dearly loved her and theirs. She knew Lucas had to do hard things to give them what they had. She witnessed one, having to care for him when he was near killed. She found herself at J. D. s grave.

"Well Papa, are you pleased with all that's happened. You always said Lucas was the son you wanted; taught him your ways of what's right and what was wrong. He

learned those hard lessons well. I'm not sure I've ever thanked you for Lucas. I am sure I never thanked you for loving me like you did even though I wasn't of your blood. All those things you taught me: It's made it easier for me to accept the many different things we've been through."

Linda Jean laid the flowers on J. D. grave, tugged a few weeds away from his head stone... And slow kissed the carving of his name...

*

Stephen Bennett knew there was something important going on. He'd seen Tiffany Ann after she came to town the day before; the way she had gone quick here n there. She hadn't come home last night. Lucas was back this morning. He'd had each and every one of the town council members in and out of his office. That tall, lanky stranger had finally gone after dropping something through Lucas's mail slot two days before. Stephen always kept a sharp eye on the goings on around Lucas Blake's office, the Diamond and hotel.

Mark was half asleep at his teller's window, counting on the rattling of the door mounted bell to wake him.

Stephen was slow tiring of his Lover n longtime partner. He was gaining weight, getting even more lazy and not taking care of his appearance near like he used to.

Stephen had taken the younger man away from a hard way of making a living, then worked with him on his math n such. Now nine years later, he forgot all that.

Tiffany didn't like him much. Lucas even less. The best thing Mark Brennan had done was keep his mouth shut and kept their love quiet: though Stephen knew that any speculation that might have occurred was tempered by his marriage to Tiffany Ann. And the relationship he had with Lucas Blake...

*

Sally Tart took her time readying for her early dinner with Lucas. Ruth was being more than helpful, tending to her hair and staining her nails. Oddly, her going to see Lucas seemed to have little effect on Anna Ruth. Sally had let her read the note. They'd talked some about what it might be all about, her fussing about Tiffany Ann and Ruth reminding her how important she was to his business: Lucas maybe wanting. Their feelings about that possibility never came into their conversation.

Sally was ready more than thirty minutes early. Ruth wrapped her arms around her

from behind as she sat on the edge of their bed.

"I'm sorry I acted the way I did when you shared with me."

Sally closed her hands over the arms in front of her.

"I know it's hard to understand the relationship that me n Lucas share. The sex is more like being happy, content with each other. We talk about thoughts and ideas and the many things we read."

Ruth nuzzled Sally ear.

"Sounds like us."

Sally tilted her head a bit; Ruth knew and started to kiss her along her fresh scented neck.

"Mmmmm... Not quite. We share our lives, where it might go with each other."

Sally gasped.

"Yessss, right there."

Ruth drew the soft flesh between her neck and shoulder deeper into her tender suckling mouth. Sally trembled.

"Y-you're gonna have me so wet Lucas will think I got fucked before meeting him."

Ruth stopped, laying her chin over her Lover's shoulder.

"You want to before you leave."...

*

Sally was there shortly before she needed to be. Lucas was wearing his coat, an open necked shirt and blue material pants. Sally started wondering.

"Have I overdressed."

"Not at all. I just want to talk over some business is all."

Lucas paused, making it a point to slow run his eyes over her after she was at the table's edge

"You can sure make things hard on a man Sally."

He took note of the twinkling in her emerald eyes.

"I hope so."

She looked at her chair and then back at Lucas Blake. He near chuckled as he moved to ease her chair back and help with its adjustment when she settled.

"Thank you, Sir."

Lucas did chuckle this time as he sat across from her. They both placed the nicely folded linen napkins into their laps. Lucas reached across the table and lifted the silver cover on her plate. A small steak, baked potato, and some early picked vegetables greeted her eyes. She noted Lucas only had a much bigger steak.

They ate quietly, Sally wanting to ask and Lucas waiting for her to. It was near the end of the meal when Sally patted at her dark red tinted lips with the starched white linen that Lucas spoke.

"I'll be leaving Winding Creek at the end of the week for business back east."...

For the next thirty minutes they talked back and forth, him mostly saying as she listened close. What he said and what he wanted her to do was more than she ever thought he'd ask of her. He finally slowed.

"Looks like you got some questions."

Sally nodded her head.

"Some. I hope we'll have time to talk some more."

Lucas smiled.

"We do. But I wanted You to know what I'll be expecting before I ask you a question."

Sally sensed the change in his voice as she nodded her yes.

"You've taken quite a shine to Anna Ruth. How serious is it?"

Sally needed a moment. She slow rose from the table and moving to the small buffet, collected two crystal glasses and the always there bottle of Lernid's.

"I'm not quite sure yet Lucas."

She eased back to the table, setting the glasses: one in front of Lucas and other closer to her.

"I'm not sure if she can be happy in Winding Creek."

She half-filled the crystal one closest to her first and then the other.

"I wonder if she'll be happy with what I do, if she might want to have something to do for herself."

The bottle was set between where they both had been sitting. Picking up the twinkling crystal closest to her, she handed it to Lucas.

"The life you and I share might be difficult for her to accept."

She lifted the other in a salute to Lucas Blake. They both tasted his favored drink.

"I could very easily fall in love with her Lucas."

A long minute passed before he spoke.

"First, I'll need you to do as I've asked while I'm gone. After, if you want me to send word to Miss Molly for someone to assume your place at the Diamond, I will."

Sally wrinkled her pretty little nose.

"If you would prefer to find your replacement at the Diamond, we can do that. After my return, you'll still have most of the duties I've just spoken to you about, if you want them. That includes the Diamond if that's what you want."

He motioned to the chair Sally had occupied earlier. After she settled, she tried to speak, Lucas gently lifted his hand.

"I want our futures to be together Sally. I trust you. Your happiness is paramount, just like it is for me."

Sally had settled quiet now, her eyes looking past the crystal glass resting in her fingers between her soft smiling face and the top of her shoulder.

"You'll have near three weeks, give or take. I know you'll do well with the changes we've talked about. You need to know if you want them. Many of things are easily said, but..."

Sally tasted her drink, her eyes telling Lucas was she a bit overwhelmed.

"We can find where Anna Ruth fits after we know what You want. You have time to make those decisions. I'll help wherever I can."

Sally often thought about the man she wanted in her far-off dreams, now he was sitting right across the table from her. He stood and came to her side. Offering her his hand, she took it before rising to look close into his eyes.

"You need some time. We'll talk again late tomorrow... And with your permission, I'd like it Ruth to join Tiffany Ann and myself for an early lunch. She can council Tiff on the east, the latest fashions and her needs for the travel we will be making... Would eleven in my office be appropriate."

Sally answered him with a kiss on his cheek after brushing away a slow falling tear...

*

Anna Ruth was restless, her thinking rushing from one thought to another. This wasn't like her alone time when Sally was working. Their room was more then clean, the linens changed, and napping was not going to happen. She'd went out to the hall and near the stairs to peek at the pendulum clock so many times that several men now set the lobby of the hotel hoping to get a glimpse of the pretty woman upstairs and the quick view she offered.

The last time she checked it was near seven. She imagined Sally all tangled up with Lucas Blake in every position she or Sally had shared with him: even a few that only she and Sally had shared when they were alone. She was slow marking time, nervous tapping her toe, when Sally came through the door.

Ruth was on her feet in an instant, rushing into Sally's surprised face and quick opening arms.

"Are we okay? Are you? What did he say? Was it bad or good or..."

Ruth felt Sally's quiet laughter as she slow rocked her in her arms. She eased back to look her.

"Everything is fine Ruth... More than fine."

*

The rest of the ride to the L & L west was quiet. Hard quiet: Debra Ann would not look at her man as he pushed the carriage drawing horse as hard as figured he could get away with. He slowed well before their heading to the barn.

"You'll start easin' your way with whatever hand comes to stable the carriage."

Debra Ann was still tussling with her man's words. She was shocked and hurt, more hurt with their being asked to stay clear of the L & L until Lucas got back from his traveling. She were only trying to make their marriage better and wondering if Linda Jean might have a suggestion. She hadn't thought that decision through any better then when she asked that pretty boy to come along home with them. What was she thinking?

"You were just as foolish as I were Luis... Or Pablo... Whatever your name might be."

The palm side of his fingers landed sharp on her cheek before she could blink.

"Woman, I'm in no mood."

She stiffened, the light pain hurting her more inside than her cheek. She stared hard into his face...

*

Lucas thought about walking to the Bennitt home to speak to Tiffany Ann, then seeing the lamp lights lit in her dress shop ended that. He knocked on the door before entering. The last single Murphy girl forced a smile from her sewing table until she knew it were Lucas Blake. She called out to Mrs. Bennitt as she quick stood.

"Evening Mr. Blake."

He thought for a moment, the soft smile under pink cheeks not giving him the greeting he was searching for.

"Good evening, Miss Murphy. Mrs. Bennitt keeping you late I see."

"Yes Sir... But I don't mind."

He smiled and then looked at his fast-coming, corn silk colored hair paramour.

"Tiffany Ann, I'd appreciate you joining me and a Miss Anna Ruth Taylor for lunch tomorrow. She arrived earlier this week from back east and I think we could do well in asking about the goings on there; what fashions are popular."

The wide smile and dancing blue eyes answered before she did.

"Of course, Lucas! And what time will that be."

"Eleven if that suits you."

Lucas turned and as he reached for the polished brass doorknob.

"Have a good evening Mr. Blake!"

After opening the door, he looked over his shoulder.

"Thank you, Sarah."...

*

Sally Tart leaned back, her hands on the lace and now drape covered windows sill. She stared down at Anna Ruth kneeling in front of her, slow kissing the top of her bared thigh, her lips moving to the inside to the more sensitive skin.

The younger woman had gently lifted Sally's right leg from behind her knee, her mouth exploring the pale, silky skin as she neared the shimmering opening above.

Sally took a deep breath, her Lovers black lace covered hand in contrast to her fresh milk-colored skin.

Ruth had obediently followed her asks after she'd shared some of what Lucas had said. The more Sally thought about it, the stronger she felt. She was fast becoming Frances from Fanny Hill. Lucas was giving her more power than she'd ever dreamed of. Now she was going to explore some of that power with her little submissive.

Ruth had eagerly stripped off the thin robe and white silk chamois she'd worn especially for Sally when she were told to. She struggled with her smile as she stood quietly in front of Sally, looking past the black lace gloves to the floor; the only thing she wore. She loved the feel of her tightening nipples, the prickling of her skin, the slow coming warmth deep between her thighs as Sally asked what she did while she was with Lucas Blake.

"I-I set our room proper and replaced our sheets. I tried to nap but couldn't."

"And."

"Nothing."

"You just sat here in our room."

Ruth searched for an answer.

"I paced our room, looked out the window..."

Then she remembered the men looking up at her as she checked the large standing clock in the lobby.

"I-I checked the clock in the lobby."

Ruth felt better for some reason.

"Did you go all the way down to the hotel lobby to check the clock."

"N-no."

Sally's voice hardened a bit more.

"Then how did you check it."

Ruth was anxious again.

"I went to the top stairs... No... Just close to the top of the stairs and peeked through the railing."

"Dressed like you were when I came back."

"Y-yes."

"How many times."

"I don't know."

"Once, twice."

"M-many times."

Sally pursed her fresh stained lips.

"The hotel is near full Ruth; did anyone see you."

Ruth felt her tummy tighten as the heat rose in her cheeks.

"Yes."

"Who saw you Ruth, when you snuck out of our room to peek at the clock in the lobby."

She thought of the men that had gathered in the lobby.

"I-I only saw men."

"Men."

"Yes."

"How many."

"I-I don't know. Maybe two... Three."

The nude Sally moved to their vanity.

"Did they see you."

"Y-yes."

Ruth peeked up at Sally as she lifted the flat backed hair brush off their vanity. Her body began to tremble.

"And now you are looking up when I asked you to stay as I like seeing you."

"I-I'm sorry."

Sally deep sighed as she moved to their small eating table. She tapped its top with a long, red tipped finger. Ruth swallowed hard as she followed her Lover's subtle calling. Moving slow to the tables edge, she paused for a moment. Sally tapped the polished wood again. Anna Ruth laid her knotted inside tummy over the cool polished surface, extending her trembling hands past the other edge. Her body tightened as Sally ran the tips of her hand down her back.

"So, you were so impatient, you had to keep checking that fancy pendulum clock in the hotel lobby."

"Y-yes."

Those fingers flattened gentle on her exposed bottom, her hand soft circling the firm, snow white flesh.

"Let all those men see what belongs to me."

Ruth whimpered as the side of Sally's hand slipped between the light quivering globes of her bottom, sliding slow down until her pinky laid against her wanting need.

"Open."

Ruth parted her thighs. The side of Sally's hand moved gentle up and down.

"Wider."

Ruth moved her feet wide apart. The hand turned and Sally covered her weeping pussy.

"I can feel how much you liked letting those men look at you."

Two of her fingers slid between the swollen, slippery folds and pressed against the pink delicate skin. Ruth groaned. Sally teased the pebble near the top of the slick warmth.

"You like it when I touch you like this don't you My pretty little Slut."

Ruth lifted her hips into the teasing fingers and whimpered. Sally removed her hand, the back of the brass handled and black stained wood fell hard on the right side of her ass!

Anna Ruth Taylor cried out. Sally's harsh words filled Ruth's ears.

"You'll answer Me when you're asked."

Ruth quick closed her thighs. The hairbrush fell again on the still pale skin of the other hard tightened globe.

"You'll not be showing what is Mine without being told."

The hairbrush fell again. Ruth soft cried out.

"You'll not share anything of what's Mine with anyone without being told."

The hairbrush fell for the last time on the quick reddening flesh of Ruth's wonderful bottom. Sally began petting the fire-stained skin.

"You have such a beautiful ass Ruth."

Ruth settled flat on the table again. Sally's hand was encouraging the deep breathing woman to open her thighs. Ruth obliged her slowly. Those red tipped fingers started searching, sliding up and down the sloppy wet, probing the opening to her body...

------ 0 ------

Lucas Blake's morning was slow, even though things were moving along. He'd asked Tiffany Ann to sort through his vests, shirts, and britches only to be told she'd already taken care of that. They were being pressed after being cleaned the day before. And yes, only lightly starched.

He wandered over to the barber shop though Tiffany Ann took care of his hair. A nice warm soap shave and easy conversation suited him well. A freckle faced boy polished the boots he was wearing until they shone like moon light. He checked his watch for the umpteenth time, stopping at the Mercantile, bank and leather shop. As he were passing, Paul Segan stepped out to hand him a brand new flat brimmed black felt hat, the sides already turnt up a bit. Paul had taken note of how Tiffany Ann had made his others look.

It was close to eleven when he went back to his office, locked the door and then closed the heavy maroon drapes before going upstairs. Tiffany Ann was already there, sorting the table and the sliver cap covered food. She quick stepped to him, tiptoed up and kissed his cheek, then making a little show of wiping the lip stain off.

"May I fix you a drink My fine sir."

"Sounds good to me."

"What can you tell me about Sally's new friend Lucas?"

A light tapping on the door took Lucas's smile away.

"You mind your manners and you can ask her yourself."

He quick stepped to the door.

Anna Ruth was dressed in the bluebird-colored skirt trimmed in black. The white blouse she wore showed she had no chamois today. The near beautiful young woman blushed at Lucas Blake as he took note of that fact. Tiffany Ann blinked hard.

"Miss Anna Ruth Taylor, I'd like you meet Mrs. Tiffany Ann Bennitt, my favorite sister-in-law."

Anna Ruth offered her hand; Tiffany Ann took it.

"Do not take what Lucas said in earnest, I am his Only sister-in-law."

Soft smiles settled the meeting nicely. In the not to long, the ladies were talking about everything from luggage to fashion n hats and to what Tiffany might see or enjoy. Lucas quick tired of their chat even before they finished their lunch.

"Excuse me ladies."

Both women paused to take note.

"Handguns were little seen when I left the east many years ago. How are they accepted now?"

Tiffany Ann wrinkled her forehead. Anna Ruth soft smiled.

"They were outlawed in the city where I came from; and in many of the cities and towns you will be passing through."

Lucas's face twisted up a bit before he slow rose from his chair.

"If you two ladies will excuse me, I'll be leaving you alone for now. Seems I have a problem that needs tending to."...

*

Leatherman Ben Carson heard the tinkling of the brass bell mounted to the top of his shop's door. He looked up from his work bench and over the half wall to see who entered. He quick rose, wiping his work scarred n hard skin hands seeing it was Lucas Blake.

"Morning Lucas."

Slipping off his long leather work apron, he rolled down the sleeves of his plaid shirt as he moved to greet a longtime friend. Extending his hand, Lucas took it as they shared a smile.

"Ben, I'll be needing a favor."

"Ask."

Lucas opened his coat and drew the Walker Colt from it's holster, laying it on the countertop.

"We've talked about my coming travel plans Ben. I learned, and should've known, the best friend I ever had will not be welcome in some of the places I'll be traveling to."

The middle-aged tradesman looked at the gleaming pistol that mostly hung in Lucas Blakes office. It were seldom worn except for times of trouble. Sadly, just a tad over twelve years old, the beautiful weapon was fast becoming not much more than a antique now. Ben Carson nodded his head.

"I always loved the look of that pistol Lucas."

Lucas soft smiled.

"It were a gift meant for J. D.. Circumstance never let him use it."

"Bad times it were Lucas... Bad times."

Ben let the thoughtful moment linger a bit.

"Lucas, can I show you something."

He was already headed for his small office past the half walls end close to his work bench. Out of sight for a minute, Lucas ran his fingers over the engraved, polished steel. His remembrances were cut short by Ben.

"I got a friend, well more of a acquaintance, up in Independence. He ain't much with his English, but a better gunsmith you'll not find."

Ben Carson laid a shorter pistol next to the Walker Colt.

"He come up with this little dandy. Brass frame, blue steel barrel. Kicks like one of those long-eared mules you raise. But as you can see, most of it could fit under your arm with a special made holster."

Lucas Picked up the weapon. Maybe a bit more then half the weight of the laying on it's side Walker Colt: it fit his hand nice.

"Ain't worth a damn much more then thirty feet with that short barrel, but it might be good company in the city."

Lucas met his friends shining brown eyes.

"Holster?"

"I'll have it ready before the sunsets. You go ahead n take it, see if it's to your liklin'.

We'll fit the holster proper when you come back."...

*

Tiffany Ann was listening close when Anna Ruth spoke, mostly to what was said but just as important, the way it was said. She'd taken note of the way she dressed and the way Lucas liked it. It was scandalous of course; the fine white material of her blouse light enough you could see the outline of her small nipples. Surely, she didn't dress like she was all the time.

It had to be to entice Lucas.

Was she fucking Lucas already? Or was it something that Sally had thought up to try and steal Lucas away from her...