Back ta Winding Creek Ch. 05 - Blue

( I cannot express my deepest appreciation to those that continue reading and enjoy my efforts here. This chapter was not as hurried as the last one was, due to indecision on my part whether to continue and then keep doing so in a timely fashion.

Also, as it was pointed out to me in a comment: these will not be 'standalone' stories. That decision was made after Ch 3. Thank You all again for your patience, understanding, votes and comments. )

Anna Ruth Taylor took a deep breath, closing her eyes as Sally Tart's fingers slid under the bodice of the silver n white dress she wore. She wished they were alone. Wished Sally would have taken her like this when they were alone...

Lucas Blake watched as Anna Ruth closed her eyes, looking at Sally after she did. His paramour looked back, her emerald eyes blazing. They'd been here before. Tiffany Ann, Maria Lopez, Louise Sheppard...

Yet this was different. Anna was a young woman from means, her life changed when her husband failed with all they had been given by his successful family. Raised as a Lady, she was familiar with the upper crusts of society back east. Well read. Polished. Honorable. And as Lucas had seen, of deep passions.

Lucas soft smiled at Sally, their eyes meeting in understanding. The red headed woman began her seduction in earnest, lightly teasing Anna's hard little nipples: searching her neck with her lips, enjoying the supple skin of her shoulders...

Anna Ruth opened her eyes as Sally was easing the crepe and silk material off and then slowly down her shoulders. The silver n white material slowly exposed more of her pale breasts. She inhaled deeply, meeting and holding Lucas Blakes eyes. The warmth of the room increased as she was slowly exposed to the handsome man now sitting across from her. His eyes never left hers as the air washed over her exposed breasts. Sally's hands were gently covering them now, her lips tasting her upper shoulders and sensitive neck. Sally tugged lightly on her ear, encouraging her to turn her face to her so she could again enjoy her suddenly dry mouth. She wanted to reach up, pull Sally tighter to her; the dress off her shoulders now, around her waist and elbows, trapped her arms. She was forced to raise up from her chair to deepen the kiss.

Sally turned her body into hers, Anna's hands desperately trying to draw her closer without being able to reach around her. Anna felt herself being laid back onto the table, her plate and the silver that laid along its sides somehow moved so she could lay back. Sally eased away ever so slightly, her mouth pressing against her cheek. The younger woman turned her face away as she tasted her temple and again toyed with her ear, the tip of her tongue darting in and out. Sally tried moving closer, the young woman parting her thighs allowing her to. When Sally lifted her smeared, red stained lips to look into her eyes, Anna Ruth Taylor melted into the linen tablecloth.

In the minutes that followed Anna Ruth's dress and other layers of clothing vanished from her youthful body. Soft endearments were whispered into her ear before tender kisses slipped over her breasts, past her tightening tummy and then along the inside of her trembling thighs. Another pair of hands covered her breasts. Long fingers caressed her exposed flesh, toying with her sensitive, so very hard nipples. Lucas Blake's mouth covered hers, his tongue gently seeking entrance into hers. She thought of turning away, trying to save whatever virtues she might have left, but surrendered to the feelings that coursed through her body like the strong early warning winds of a coming storm.

Her soft thighs were parted wider as lips caressed the delicate, creamy skin. Her mouth opened allowing the green eyed male to search inside. She was drawn gently back towards the man, the linen under her sliding her very warm, heated body farther onto the table. Her hips settled on the hard surface when her knees were lifted, her thighs opened wide, and Sally's mouth covered her throbbing sex.

Anna Ruth cried out into Lucas Blake's mouth...

*

Smoke Garcia turned sharp n started moving out of the barn. Linda Jean was hard looking at him as he took her arm to lead her out of the barn.

"S-Smoke..."

"Is nutheenin to be seeen here."

"Smoke!"

The big man turned to look at only the second woman in his life he could have ever loved. The gravel voice from somewhere deep in his chest whispered.

"Yore muther n Luis Tee."

Linda Jean near bust out laughing as she stared into the big man's eyes.

"You mean My mother n Her Husband are making love back there!"

The now red-faced Spaniard threw up his hands and stormed off, collecting Rojo's reins in his hand as he passed to leave the barn. Linda Jean was three steps behind leading Starlight.

"Smoke... Smoke!"

He stopped, turning to half look at his partner n friends wife wide smiling at him. Her eyes were dancing as she moved as close to him as she ever had without touching the red, sour faced man.

"Does Mama look as good as I do in the altogether?"

Linda Jean now saw what so many men feared. Blazing black eyes and a face stretched so tite she thought it might tear apart. It was only a moment, but a moment she would never forget. She stepped back. The hateful face dropped.

"I-I...."

"It's okay Smoke...."

"No... It iss not...."

Gawd only knew why what happened in that moment, but it did. Linda Jean stepped forward n wrapped her arms around the man she knew would protect her life before his.

"You know I love us Smoke. What we share. I should not have...."

The big man tried easing away. The strong arms not quite reaching around his shoulders held her tight to him. He heard her quick starting tears.

"I never met to hurt you. I never would..."

His large paws slow slipped to her small waist.

"I know Miss Linda."

It felt like minutes but only could have been several seconds. Linda Jean slowly eased away, wiping at her falling tears. Smoke reached out n took her by the arms just below her shoulders to look into her eyes.

"Yoou Miss Linda... Yoou are thee most beauutiful."

She thought she saw Smoke Garcia smile before he turned away.

"Yoou will leeve the horses. I wiil staabel dem."...

*

Debra Ann tried to cover herself, but Smoke Garcia was gone. She wondered how much the big man had actually seen of her pale flesh splayed open for her man. She looked to her husband who was hard pressed not to laugh, his spent pecker twitching again.

"N-no way Luuis."

Her husband chuckled.

"Way."...

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

Lucas Blake looked down at Ruth who were cuddled against his chest. Sally Tart was wrapped tight against her back, her arm over Ruth and her hand covering Lucas's worn-out member.

'Ruth'. He'd asked her if he could call her that. It somehow felt good rolling over his tongue. She whimpered her yes as Sally was enjoying his n Ruth's leavin's, gentle lapping between Ruth's raised knees and widespread thighs. Ruth were trying to lay stay still, one arm under Lucas's neck, the other thrown out wide on the fancy sheets of the bed, her pretty hand clutching at the store-bought material.

Lucas was toying with a small, still hard red tipped nipple. They had all made love: the gals for second time after Sally had gotten the new addition to join their play time. Ruth had cum so hard they thought folks at the Diamond or even the street below might have heard.

It wasn't until the second time they rolled around together on the huge bed that Ruth had tasted Lucas Blake's near hard again pecker. She were shy, saying she'd never done that before. Lucas had laid back n let Sally Tart guide the scarlet-faced girl with her teaching's. After ten minutes or so, Sally had slipped down to enjoy Ruth's swollen, wispy haired pussy again. Ruth must've been born to it as she were doing things that made Lucas as hard as he'd been before enjoying her tight, cock grabbing quiff the first time. He loved how she felt when he finally hit near bottom, her hips twisting like a horse tryin' to buck a first-time rider off its back. He wondered then if it was the way they were fucking or Sally Tart rubbing her love button under his slow drivin' hips...

Ruth soft moaned as she rubbed her cheek against Lucas Blake's chest. She eased one eye open to peek up him.

"I'm afraid to move."

"Why's that."

She tried to smile.

"With all the goings on last night I'm wondering if I'll even be able to walk."

Lucas soft smiled down at her.

"I'll bet a hundred dollars to one that I could find half a dozen men that would crawl across broke glass to carry you back to your room."

She lite slapped his chest.

"You'd let a half a dozen men see me naked as the day I was born n my 'sweet little pussy' as you and Sally both called it?"

"He would, but I wouldn't. I'll carry you all by myself."

Sally soft kissed Ruth's shoulder. Lucas was hard thinking about the way Sally said what she did...

*

Blue saw the light of a new day as it slid slowly across the smooth water. He slept well, the happenings of the day before swallowed up by seeing the near beautiful, raven-haired woman slip into the pond until the cold water almost covered her breasts. He watched from not to far away with his lookin' glass as she lingered, her hands between her thighs, the water rippling around her with the quickenin' movement of her shoulders. He saw something in her that he'd not seen before, with her head back n eyes closed tight as her mouth sagged open...

He'd spilled his man cream twice the night before as he turned her this way n that as he fucked her in his mind. She lingered in his mind even more then Sarah did as he washed his self with the lye soap that what's his name had. He liked the big pond n the trees here n there along its sides wondering why no one had settled it. Must belong to someone.

After bathing his own self, he started with most of the clothes he wore or collected since leavin' his long-time mountain home. His buckskins were wiped down, the cold water being the best to soft scrub the well smoked, cured hide. He laid 'em out flat for a bit, not hangin' 'em as he done with the other clothes. When they were near dry but still a little damp, he slipped back into them. The chill was better then havin' them dry stiff n maybe loose some of their shape.

Blue spent the rest of the mornin' tending to the Pinto n Chesnut. Seemed that whoever took better care of his horse then he did of most everything else he owned. He set on the ponds edge figuring on just what he were going to do next. Winding Creek was some where's east he figured, signs of ranching n farming starting to show here n there as he traveled towards it. He'd ride into town late afternoon after most had done their business n were wantin' to enjoy the last of their day. Folks asked less n saw little when their minds were done workin' for the day...

*

Lucas Blake slipped out of bed still keeping an eye of the two women that had started cuddling n such again. It were Ruth that started it with Sally when he'd said he were going to bathe. The young woman had shed her shyness, moving over Sally and becoming the seducer instead of the seduced. Lucas surely liked what he was seeing, but knew he'd be absolutely no help after all the doings the night before.

"I'll have Helga send up some breakfast, say an hour or so."

Sally's limp wristed hand waved Lucas away...

*

Tom Poe wasted little time readying the carriage for the Tee's. Connie had come early to the barn saying Miss Debra expected it ready shortly after breakfast. Tom liked the young Connie. Liked her big brown eyes and long hanging doe colored hair. When she'd been charged with a duty, like she were before she come to the barn, her usual ways of sometimes slouchin' into herself disappeared. Her head rose some with her throwed back shoulders, her pretty face trying to look stern. But the learning to look hard were spoiled by her youth n delicate, breeze smooth skin. He especially liked her quick comin' pretty smile that went all the way up n into her eyes...

*

Luis Tee lingered in their bed, watching Debra Ann slow getting ready for their day. He liked the Blake's guest room, liked how the light slipped through the lace covered windows from the slow rising sun. Debra Ann looked younger in the mornin's here with the air moving light as she took her sponge bath...

Mrs. Tee was thinking hard as she slow cleaned the day n night before from her body. Luis was sit-laying in the to soft feather bed, all their pillows behind him as he kept a tight eye on her doings. She tired making a show of it, hoping he could get his libido up some without her saying n doing the things she had the day before. He been randy last night, but his old worn-out self when she cuddled up against him and stroked the softness between his thighs this morning.

It been years since her first husband and his odd ways were put to rest. She'd learned to love J. D. after he brought her west, to understand and accept his ways. But after the loss of their son and the birth of Tiffany Ann, he changed.

Debra Ann turned and looked into her now husband's eyes; lifted her breast and circled its pink end with the tip of her tongue. Luis smiled, but it were to close to the same as J. D. had all those long years ago...

*

Luna Garcia was wondering why her man had come home last night as wanting as a breeding bull. She shooed his hands away more then once until the older children joined the younger ones in their sleep. He'd taken her quick, pushing hard inside n then slow using her from behind. His hands were busy over her body, his rare needin' sounds low so they wouldn't wake anyone. After he stiffened, he held in her place, staying deep inside until he slow softened and slipped free. She had to get out of bed to clean away his considerable leavings that flowed from inside.

Her thinking was changed by the sound of one of the children going out through the front door to use the privy. It were time to get their breakfast started. Smoke reached for her as she moved to get out of bed...

*

Tiffany Ann was helping Connie this early morning. She'd slept poorly the night before, her mind filled with Lucas n Sally n the things she n her mother had shared. She'd cried when she first told her mother long ago about some of things that happened during her first marriage to Jack Seasons. She'd not told her everything. She was to ashamed. But their quiet sharing the day before brought back other memories that she'd fought hard to keep buried deep and forgotten like Lucas had taught her.

She listened to her mother and her worries about Luis Tee n how he were losing interest. It wasn't long that it came to light that he weren't losing interest so much as he couldn't do what was needed when the time came.

Tiffany Ann knew that problem well, thinking it was natural at first that Jack needed her to do things that weren't in any of the conversations concerning marriage that she'd ever shared with anyone. Their first year together had Tiffany Ann using her mouth more than the way a married man and woman should be. After she finally carried a child inside of her, his requests soon became demands that filled many of her nights and some days doing things she knew were not right. When she shared the edges of those stories with her mother, she'd started listening more then she talked. Tiffany Ann were hurt, and in some way relieved when she learned that her own father, J. D. had some peculiar ideas too.

All that led to her thinking about how she and Lucas and Sally carried on. Linda Jean was thought about for a bit, but quick dismissed from her thoughts. Her sister had only wanted what was best for her in the not to long ago and those decisions were never spoke of again. She weren't so sure anymore that some of the other hanky-panky's laid the same way in her mind.

"Miss Tiffany, the biscuits might be burning."

Connies soft warning brought Tiff back to the here and now.

"Tiffany Ann, are you alright?"

Her mother's words as she lingered in the kitchen unsettled her a bit more.

"I-I think I should leave breakfast to you two."

Tiffany was loosening the apron from around her waist as she headed for the back door...

*

Lucas Blake had done his best thinking the last twelve or so years on Patch. As he headed to the ranch this pretty morning, he started to break things down a bit; make one thing right and then another. He wouldn't have that much time with this one...

He'd spoken to Helga about the ladies' breakfast after he finished his bath. The knowing look he got from his long time cook and friend limited whatever else he needed to say.

He'd spent some time thinking on Sally and Ruth as he looked out past the edge of the heavy, dark blue drapes in his room at his slow coming to life town. Shop keepers opening their business's, children meandering their way to school, folks nodding their hellos. He loved his town... So much had changed.

It was as he finished dressing, he decided that what he needed were Linda Jean.

Less than an hour later, after leaving a short note for Sally Tart, he were headed to do just that.

The warming air around him were saying that spring was half over. The sky overhead was a rare, deep walk into blue. Most the grass had turned from yellow n brown to the many greens the spring were still bringing. An occasional early wildflower added a touch of color here n there. Lucas nudged Patch, letting his eager horse set his own pace to get home.

The letter Lucas read the day before was going to change his life, most everything in Winding Creek and more then likely the entire country. He was being told to come back east by Charles Taylor as soon as possible. While they had not been in the same room for well over eleven years, their relationship had evolved into a very close business one. That relationship had both made Lucas even more powerful and very rich. It brought the railroad, over a hundred jobs and the guarantee of a prosperous life for him and his. Those same ventures only added to Charles Taylor's wealth. How powerful his mentor now was would only be speculation on his part; certainly, enough to know what was coming and telling Lucas to come east.

His leaving and traveling was the immediate problem. Linda Jean would never leave the ranch to go along. Sally coming simply wasn't possible. She took care of far to many of his investments for them both to leave. Plus, she'd be charged on keeping a closer eye on Tiffany Ann's husband, Stephen Bennett and those things he took care of.

Smoke would handle any problem that Sally might have, Linda Jean the same for that matter. Both women could temper his response.

Luis Tee and his mother-in-law would be another matter, but that could wait until the more important things were set. He'd telegraphed Oscar ( though he didn't trust it ) about the riverboat in a way that wouldn't cause wondering or gossip. He were hoping no one would know he was gone until he was there and maybe on his way back.

The few things that were certain and for sure was that he'd need more of everything: horses, mules, cattle, hogs and the whatever's to maintain them. Product would come first, the more time he had to prepare the better. He thought hard about Stillwater but let that pass until he knew more facts.

Tiffany Ann seemed like the best answer for him to maintain the look of a successful, married man taking the time with his wife to enjoy some of the spoils he earned. Of course, they would not share that image until boarding the steamboat. He'd like to take a day or so in Independence letting her pick out the things that might not be available in Winding Creek.

He chuckled a bit into the quick moving air around him. He felt sorry for the girls in the dress shop. It would be long days n nights until they boarded the train to Independence...

*

Tom Poe had the carriage ready as he were asked. The children were scattered here n there on the east side of the house waiting for their teacher to arrive. The barn side was strictly forbidden for play, as were the back around the gardens. Play in front were only allowed after asking. That weren't the case this morning, but he still lingered until someone took charge of the carriage. There'd be more then hell to pay if one of the young ones ever got hurt other then during their own foolish behaviors'.

It were Linda Jean that finally appeared to let Tom free to tend to his duties. The other ranch living hands were already out n about doing what had to be done, two working with the half dozen mustangs sent from the L & L Ranch West.

"Good morning, Miss Linda."

He loved her always smile in the mornin'.

"Morning Tom."

"Good ride yesterday?"

"It was. I think you need check the saddle bags. Smoke tended the horses when we got back last night."

"Yes Ma'am."

Linda cuddled the carriage harnessed horse. Breakfast had been the same until the Garcia children showed up asking to be fed. Seemed Luna was still in bed...

Her mother n Luis were taking a ride out to Lily's pond. Connie was finishing up with fresh bread, some boiled eggs, a good chunk of smoked ham and two kinds of jams to go along with the always ready picnicking basket. She'd left Tiffany Ann alone and out of her mind knowing she'd be back when she was ready after her leavin' the house so early.

"Linda Jean..."

Luis Tee was standing with the picnic basket in one hand and the checkered blanket hanging over his other arm

"Thank Ya for readyin' the carriage. I swear you run a ranch as well as anyone I've ever seen or heard of."

"That right old man."

Her mother was stepping through the same door that Luis had just passed through.

Luis chuckled a bit.

"Cept for your mother of course."

Three minutes later, Luis was leading the carriage through the still playing children. Linda stared gob smacked trying to figure why her mother was wearing a thin yellow cotton dress and her house moccasins... And nothing underneath...

*

Linda Jean was finally alone, sitting the porch with her own thoughts. She'd usually be standing corral side watching the mustangs being gentled after being broke at the L & L west. Unlike her own raised horses, these were wild caught or not suitable for breeding. Most were gelded males, a few for some reason or another mares.

She was enjoying her kind of quiet when she saw who she knew were Lucas coming home. Still some fifteen minutes away, she jumped up n headed into the house.

"Connie set a fresh pot of coffee. Lucas is coming."

Connie turned and watched as the matriarch of the L & L ranch hurried past and into her bedroom. Collecting a fresh pitcher of water, she moved quick to Linda Jeans door. She were there no longer then a rooster's crow when the door opened.

"Conni..."

Linda Jean bit her lip and then smiled wide as she took the pitcher.

"I'll start the coffee, Miss Linda."

*

With the ranch slow disappearing behind them, Luis reached over and laid his hand gentle on Debra Ann's thigh.

"I never thought you'd do it."

"Well, I figured Tom would be waiting with the carriage."

She soft smiled. Luis tightened his hand on her thigh. Debra Ann leaned up a bit n kissed his cheek, then settled back for the not to long ride. She studied the slow passing land, enjoying the way Luis was looking at her more then the way they were headed. He stared at her gentle moving breasts and wet his lips. The young grandmother turned to meet his eyes and pouted a bit before dropping her chin, her hands moving to the catches that held the thin covering over her chest. One at time, slow n deliberate, she loosened each hook until the yellow cotton were open to just below her chest. Luis eased the carriage to a halt. Debra Ann quick closed the parted material with her hands and turned away.

"Not until we get to the pond Mister."

Luis deep sighed.

"Yes'um."

The carriage stated to move again, though a step faster then it had before.

*

Linda Jean were standing on the porch when Lucas slow rode up. Smiling, she hurried off the porch n waited as Lucas slow stepped down, leaning in to kiss her husband before her taking the reins. Lucas reached forward n taking her free hand, lifted it shoulder high and away from her body.

"You're even prettier than this fine morning Wife."

Linda Jean cheeks colored near the same as the red silk that were around her neck and the other holding back her fresh polished hair.

"I'm pleased you found your way home Husband."

Smoke Garcia's coming and hard whistle brought Tom Poe from the barn. In just a few more strides, Smoke were taking the reins from Linda Jean.

"Is goood to see youu home Padrone."

Lucas Blake's eyes never left Linda Jeans.

"It's good to be here Smoke."

He winked at his wife: she leapt into his arms, pulling him tight to her.

"Good Lord Darlin', it's only been a few days."

The way she was clinging to him gave Lucas pause. He wrapped her up tight in his arms and lifted her up ever so slightly. Smoke led Patch behind and around them, handing Tom the reins when he arrived. Neither man spoke as they slow headed towards the barn.

Lucas eased his wife back to the ground

"You mind telling me what's wrong Linda Jean."

His wife wouldn't let go, her rushed words said into his chest.

"Tiffany Ann... Mamas is here... I just miss you so much Lucas."

He eased her back and was not happy with her tears.

"Things that bad Darlin'."

"N-not bad.... Hectic, just hectic."

He eased her back into his arms, kissing the top of her forehead, then holding her tight again.

"You wanna walk or go for a ride."...

*

Sally Tart peeked out the door before opening it wide enough to bring in the silver top covered plates, silverware and tray they sat on.

"Breakfast is here Ruth."

Anna Ruth Taylor peeked out from under the sheets at her thin robe covered lover.

"Still warm?"

Sally soft shook her head.

"Not hardly."

Ruth slipped out of the bed to join Sally sitting at the small table. She didn't have her robe. It didn't matter as she liked being nude in the much warmer weather of Winding Creek. The carpets on floor made the fetish even better. Sally lifted a thin sliced piece of bacon to her lips. Ruth snapped it up, the rich smell telling her how hungry she was.

"Mmmmm... That's so good."

Sally brushed a stray hair away from Ruth's eyes.

"Not as good as you."

Ruth's hazel eyes sparkled.

"Toast?"

"Please."

Ruth let her hand settle on Sally's pale white thigh as she let the older woman nibble at the toast she held out before taking a small bite for herself.

"I bet this was perfect when it first got up here."

"Helga. She and her husband have been with Lucas since he took over Winding Creek. They ran the hotel and restaurant for Irish Mike."

"Irish Mike?"

Sally covered Ruth's hand on her thigh, light squeezing it before letting the tips of her finger's soft circle it's back.

"One of the fools that tried to kill Lucas."

Sally drew a deep breath, her words and remembering's sending a familiar rush up and through her. She rattled her shoulders ever so slightly.

"Kill Lucas?"

Sally fed Ruth another slice of bacon.

"Another time."

Ruth nodded. The two women shared the rest of the cold breakfast, even wiping up the yolks with the cold toast; gently wiping both the crumbs and other imaginary things from each other's face, soft smiling as they did.

"Can I ask you a question Sally?"

The red head wrinkled her pretty nose.

"Of course."

"Why does Lucas want to call me Ruth."

Sally Tart near giggled before brushing the last left-over crumb from the side of Ruth's lips.

"To tell you the truth, I don't know. But you should let it go. If nothing else, it means he plans on having you around. He'd not bother to try and make changes if he didn't."

Ruth held Sally eyes.

"Then the words he shared last night were true?"

"Every one of them. Lucas has never lied to me Ruth. He'll never lie to you. I suspect as long as you do what you say you're going to do, and never lie to him..." "Never."

Sally Tart leaned in close and tender kissed Ruth.

"Your life will be even better then when you were married to that no account husband of yours."...

*

Oddly, it were the Chestnut gelding that caught Blue's attention. He stopped rollin' up the fresh washed n hung up to dry clothes and listened hard. Something was coming from behind the low hill that the pretty gal had come n gone over. The clothes were quick rolled and stuffed away. A look round his overnight camp offered no reason fer any one to think he was more than a travelin' man.

Shakin' his head a bit, he wondered why all of sudden like he was worried about what others might think. The Pinto was his, the Chestnut bought n paid for from those churchy folks.

Moving slow n easy, he squatted near the leavings of his fire, filled his coffee cup n stared across the shining top of the pond...

"Looks like someone is camped in our picnicking spot Luis."

Luis Tee was already handing the reins to Debra Ann n quick fishing his holstered pistol from behind the seat of the carriage.

"You take it slow going until I get these things settled here. I'll be do the askin' Darlin'."

Years of frontier living took the shine off the Tee's morning. More then likely it was someone settled from the night before n late getting started on their day. Most travelers would have been gone at first light or even before. Drifters pretty much the same...

The young buckskin clad man looked over his shoulder n slow rose up, a tin cup in his right hand. He raised his other hand in a welcoming wave.

"Good Morning to ya."

Luis had finished tying his Colt down and eased the carriage to stop.

"It is n it isn't. I'll be askin' what you're doin' here young man."

Debra Ann took note of the wide smile and to long wheat colored hair.

"Pretty spot. I noticed it yesterday after four days ride from Stillwater. Thought I'd

spend the night, clean up some before headin' into Winding Creek."

Luis handed the reins back to his wife before stepping down from inside of the carriage. Blue took note of the tall, dark-haired man lifting the holding loop from his pistol. The near black eyes hard lookin' him over seemed a bit more than familiar.

"A little late startin' your day ain't ya."

"That's true. I just finished washin' n dryin' my personals... Was gonna finish my coffee, cover the fire n head out."

Luis had already learnt as much as he was goin' to by lookin'. He slow moved away from the carriage, just in case. There'd be no harm sent his wife's way.

"You missed Winding Creek by ten, fifteen miles or so. Most follow the railroad tracks comin' from Stillwater."

Blue steady held his hands in plain sight, kept his eyes lookin' straight into the man's who was askin' the questions. He took note that he was movin' away from who n what was his. This man was no fool.

"Couldn't stand hearin' that fast moving huffin' n puffin' coffee pot spitting smoke all over the countryside. Made my Pinto over there a bit fidgety."

Luis Tee squared up, hard lookin' into the smiling blue eyes. The stranger's eyes glanced over towards Debra Ann.

"Mornin' Ma'am."

Luis Tee moved his left foot forward a bit now finding a reason to end this conversation as he inched his right hand closer to the Colt.

"We're not done talkin' yet boy."

Blue looked back, droppin' the cup n slow raising' his hands near shoulder height as a sign of surrender. He could get to his knife the quickest from there if need be.

"I meant no offense, just bein' friendly. I want no trouble. If you'd like I'll gather my things n be on my way."

"What's your business in Winding Creek."

"Look friend, all I were doin' was spendin' the night: cleaning up what's mine n finishin' my coffee. If this land belongs to you... I had no idea. If it makes you feel any better, I'll offer my apologies."

The Colt was pointing at the young man before he finished his words. Any edge Blue might of had was gone.

"I'll not ask again."

Debra Ann was spellbound. She was seein' her husband being the man again she slow fell in love with. The pretty boy was lowering his hands away from the knife that he might be keeping up high like J. D. always did.

"I'll be lookin' for a Mr. Pablo Tellez. His brother passed n I promised him I'd try n find 'im."

Luis Tee blinked. Blue saw it, same as Debra Ann. The hand holdin' the Colt lowered a bit before fast aiming again.

"Why."

"No offense, but that would be between me n Mr. Tellez."

The sound of the hammer on the Colt being pulled back made a gawd awful loud clickin' in the quiet between the two men. Blue knew he were as close to dying as he'd ever been.

"I have their family Bible... N a few personals."

Hard, near black eyes flickered, the business end of the Colt motionin' Blue to sit.

He didn't need to be told to do it slow.

"Debra Ann, check for a knife."

The now flushed woman didn't hesitate.

"Stay to the right in case this fella mite be lyin'. I'll kill you clean boy if you so much as twitch."

Neither of the Tee's thought of what Debra Ann was wearing, or not for that matter as she moved to the sitting young man. If Blue had shook his head, he might have covered the blunt end of the wide bladed knife. He didn't. She slipped it free out the well-hidden sheath, looking first at the shining polished steel n then at her man.

"Step away."

Blue glanced at the woman n then returned to the man holding the gun.

"You have any other ideas Buck might have taught you."

"No Sir."

Relief showed on Blue's face as he started to his feet.

"Easy there young fella, we're not done talkin' yet."

Blue settled back down.

"That Bible you're speakin' of. Where might it be."

Pablo Tellez words had softened a bit, the still hard pointin' Colt didn't.

"Left side of the saddle bags next to my saddle. It'd be wrapped in oil cloth with the other things."

"Debra Ann."

Blue tried hard not to look at the older woman's hips as the moved away: tried hard not to see the outline of her pretty shaped legs as she moved into the still climbing sun.

"Your name."

"Blue."

"Blue?"

"Yes Sir."

"Where you from."

"Same place as you left. Buck passed peaceful in his sleep. I burnt the cabin around him after his burying, just like he asked."

Debra Ann was moving back to her husband now, the thin yellow cotton dress leaving little to the young man's imagination.

"Open it."

Blue watched close, him being to see Debra Ann plain without looking to hard. After she slow opened the oil cloth, the Colt was holstered. Luis Tee gentle took the wooden Rosary first, running his thumb over the hand carved beads. Handing it to his wife, he took the Bible.

"Make yourself at home Blue."

Luis Tee slow walked to the edge of Lily's pond, squatting at its edge...

*

Linda Jean held her husband's hand, their hand holding arms wrapped behind her waist as they walked. She pressed tight against him, her head resting close to his shoulder. Linda Jean was babbling as was her nature, though not near as much as she used to many years ago.

Lucas learned long ago to make sense of her fast saying, sometimes scattered thoughts: Tiff had returned to the ranch upset but she wasn't exactly sure why. Mama was upset too, with Luis. Something about what he could or couldn't do. She didn't know where Tiff had run off to after leavin' the house even before breakfast was done cooking. Connie was doing fine except she had big ears.'

Lucas chuckled a bit hearing this, noting Connie had dainty little ears under all that hair. He quick shook that thought from his mind, understanding what Linda Jean meant.

'Mama was near sure Luis still loved her. She were wondering why he didn't stay home more. She had a buyer coming for a stud stallion in the next two weeks or so. Mama n Luis had rode off earlier for a picnic at Lily's pond.'

As Linda Jean slow unwound, they neared the back corrals end. Lucas turned her into his arms.

"I'll go looking for Tiffany Ann if she isn't back after my lunch. I've not had breakfast n have a deep yearning for my Wife's poor cooking."

He quick kissed the sour faced look she gave him. She kissed him back.

"Would you prefer I speak to Luis or your mother when they get back."

Linda deep sighed.

"I think it best we let that be."

Two of three well bred horses were wandering over towards their mistress.

"You see... You didn't need me for that decision."

Linda soft smiled n hugged her man as he cradled her into his arms.

"I know you like Connie, so I'll have a gentle word with her."

He ran his hand over the back of her black, soft shining hair.

"As far as me being home more often, that will have to hold for a bit."

She peeked up at him.

"Soon then?"

"Yes, my loving Wife... Soon."

She quick kissed him as the near pure white, gold mane n tail stallion nudged at her shoulder over the painted corrals top rail...

*

Debra Ann had more questions than a curious two-year girl as she looked at Luis Tee near the edge of Lily's pond. Pablo Tellez... She'd always known her man as Luis Tee. Was he running from something all those years ago when J. D. brought him home. She knew he been a mountain man early in his years. That was how him and J. D. had met. She was still pondering the possibilities when she took note of Blue looking back and forth between Luis and herself.

She quick realized why.

When those blues eyes were spending more time on her then her husband, she shifted some, bringing them up to hers.

"You always lived in the mountains?"

He blushed some knowing he'd been caught, his eyes lingering where they shouldn't. But Debra Ann liked that.

"No Ma'am. His brother bought me from the Comanche. I lived with Buck over seven er so years."

Debra Ann eyes wandered over the young man. Lean, big hands. not to tall. She loved those eyes and yellow hair. She soft smiled.

"Then I'll forgive your lack of manners. Luis won't. Your staring like a hungry wolf will bring you nothing but grief young man."

Blue liked the warm in her invitin' eyes.

"I-I'm sorry Ma'am. I haven't seen some one as pretty as you are before. I hope you'll forgive me."

Debra Ann tight smiled, brushing past Blue and his flattery ( maybe rolling her hips just a touch ) to her husband.

"I know we got some talking to do Luis, but we need to decide what we're going to do about Blue."

Her husband looked up his wife, his eyes wetted some.

"I thought of going back, fixin' the last words me n Mateo had. To far... Take to long... I had business to tend... You... Linda Jean."

Debra Ann reached out, touching her husband's shoulder. He quick got up, brushing his lips over her cheek.

"Blue, you need to collect what's yours n get 'em ready to go. We'll all be having lunch together: talk some n then decide the whatever's."

Luis never looked directly at the soft smiling young man as he passed on his way to collect the blanket n weaved, covered basket. Debra Ann moved away from the ponds edge, deciding they'd eat pretty much where Blue had. There'd be no need to set a romantic spot where she n Luis could share some intimacies. She were more then pleased when Blue covered her shoulders with his fresh washed sleeping blanket.

It was after the boiled eggs, fresh sliced ham n bread, ( Blue was good with that long, wide bladed knife ) and the choosing which jam the young man liked that Luis Tee asked what Blue had in mind to do. After studying the strawberry jam piled thick on his bread, the young man offered his thinking.

"There's nothing here for me. I've decided that being close to 'civil-I-ization'

as Buck used to call it, ain't fer me. Can't go back, there's nothin' there but burnt up n buried memories."

He slow enjoyed a healthy bite of the strawberry covered bread, shifting his eyes from Luis to Debra Ann and back to Luis again.

"I did meet some gawd fearin' folks a few weeks er so back. They made me feel welcome. But that's a life I know little about. Buck sometimes read to me from that Bible of yours, but I never learned my letters to read from it my own self..."

Debra Ann looked to Luis Tee.

"... and like Miss Debra pointed out, I am short on living with folks' that have manners n the like."

Luis looked hard back at his wife n slow her coloring cheeks.

"He was being a young man is all. No harm said or done."

Luis half smiled for the first time since spotting Blue camped at Lily's pond. Debra Ann shifted around a bit, drawing the blanket a little tighter around her. It weren't from the gentle moving air she did it.

"Well... If you'd like, me n Luis have to go back to the L & L. Then maybe we can all head to our ranch. You can stay a day er two, have a few home cooked meals n rest up some. I'll teach you some of those living with other's manners."

Blue looked close at Debra Ann, keeping his eyes watching hers. She soft smiled and looked to her husband.

"That's the least we can do for him Luis."...

*

Lucas winked and swatted his wife on her bottom as she left to make him a bite to eat. He gave the stallion a quick look over before heading to the barn. Tom Poe was finish brushing Patch as he went inside.

"Afternoon Tom."

Tom soft smiled as he offered his hand. Lucas took it n smiled back.

"You have any idea where Tiffany Ann got off to."

"Yes Sir. She asked I saddle something gentle for her. I know how she favors Cherry,"

He pursed his lips n then added.

"That horse don't get near enough work Lucas. It's a damn shame."

"She say where she was off to."

Tom slow nodded.

"Didn't make much sense to me though. Said she was going to her thinking place. Mean anything to you Sir."

"It does Tom. Do me a favor n throw a saddle over that white in the back. I'd like to see how he handles. Linda Jean has been working him hard if I'm not mistaken."

Tom Poe chuckled.

"You're right and she has."

"He any good?"

"Better than. Yore wife will be hard pressed to let 'im go."

Lucas settled his smile.

"I'd like you to see Cherry gets that work she needs."

Lucas lowered his voice just a touch.

"Tom, I need to ask you a question."

Tom Poe knew in the way Lucas's words sounded. It didn't come often, but when it did, he knew he'd have to think hard n choose his words careful. He slow nodded his head.

"I don't like seeing Linda Jean upset. You know that. Can you maybe tell me what's been going on around here?"

Ten minutes, two thick cut ham sandwiches and three cups of coffee later had Lucas gathering the reins of the somewhat restless stallion from Tom Poe. Linda Jean was pouting some as she stood close waiting for her kiss.

"Connie, you'll make one those sandwiches up for Tom, same as Linda Jean did for me..."

He looked at Tom.

"... one be enough Tom?"

The long-time hand smiled and then, with his face coloring some, looked away.

"Make it two Connie. See if you can put some love into it like Linda Jean did for me."

Connie smiled before quick going inside to do as she'd been asked.

"I'll be back shortly Wife, depending on how long it takes to me to find Tiffany Ann."

A kiss on Linda Jean's turned cheek n Lucas was heading near west. Once clear of Smokes home, he eased the stallion into a gallop. The horse responded well, covering the distance to his, and now for some time, Tiffany Ann's thinking place. He was pleased he got there quicker then he'd ever got there before. He slowed the beautiful animal the last ten minutes letting him cool down a bit.

Cherry was reined to a low hanging branch, quietly munching on the new growing grass she could reach. Lucas tethered the stallion some thirty feet away much the same way. Tiffany Ann was sitting on a horse blanket that covered the still there fallen log.

"Ride do you any good."

Tiffanny Ann looked up; several small branches that been torn at and scattered around her moccasin covered feet.

"It's hard Lucas... Sharing you with Sally, feeling like there is some kind of competition growing between us."

Lucas moved close. Tifany made room for him on the old blanket. Sitting, he wrapped his arm around her shoulders.

"There's no competition Tiff. Never has been. Sally runs the Diamond, keeps an eye on the hotel n other things. You take care of me. Sally will never change that."

Sky blue eyes looked into his green ones. He knew she'd been crying.

"I knew you were angry when you left for the ranch. But I couldn't chase after you. I knew you wanted some reassurances. We both know that was not going to happen with Jim coming to town on business. You knew that and did what you did anyway."

Her head fell soft on his chest below his shoulder.

"S-Sally is so much prettier than I am..."

He swooshed the tip of her nose.

"... and she hasn't had any kids."

Lucas stiffened.

"I'll not hear any of that. You've only gotten more beautiful with each child you've gifted me. Sally can never do that Tiffany Ann."

She reached for his other shoulder, lifting her face to his. Their shared kiss was gentle and then slow deepening. Tifany Ann eased away.

"Y-you remember when you told me long ago that what happened in the past stays in the past."

Lucas held her wetting eyes with his.

"Y-yesterday that all came back... When I was talking to Mama."

"Do we need to talk about it?"

"N-no... Yes... But not here. Not now."

Lucas cradled her hurt showing face in his hands.

"I have to go back east soon. Would you like to accompany me as my wife Tiffany Ann?"...

*

Blue trailed the carriage, close enough they knew he were there but far enough away they could talk without him hearing. The Chestnut were bein' led close behind him.

"I need you to stay clear of that boy Debra Ann. He ain't no good. Bein' raised by the Comanche n then Buck speaks poorly of him."

Debra Ann shifted closer to her husband.

"He'll be long gone in a day or so, taking what he's seen and what he does with him."

Luis looked into his wife's face, not likin' the look he was seeing.

"Debra Ann, you listen close n hear me good. I love you n what you been doin' to make our marriage better. I liked how Ted Poe looked at ya and the way you brushed up close to him."

Debra Ann let her hand fall to her man's thigh.

"But that pretty boy is trouble. I kin see Buck in him: hear his sweet-sounding words and polite way. Buck was as cold as a hard froze over lake with a north blowin' wind over it. He always took after my father, though I hate to say father. He weren't more than a show up n after takin' what he needed from our mother n then hurtin' her some, he'd be gone again."

Debra Ann looked at her man.

"Buck took most his hurtin' ways. He was damn near beat to death when he tried standin' up for my mother. It was shortly after that beatin' Mama said we had to go. Buck was fifteen then, I were near eleven. Mama was going back to her people, sayin' she done what all she could: Made Buck promise he'd take care of me."

"H-her people?"

"Cheyenne."

Luis checked over his shoulder n then looked back to his wife.

"She were thirteen when she was traded for. Lost what would have been an older brother to Buck n then one more between me n him."

Luis softened his words some.

"I best remember her eyes Debra Ann. Linda Jean has those same eyes n her knowin' ways too."

Debra Ann felt her man's hurt, soft stroking the top of his leg: nuzzling tight against him.

"We wandered a bit, looking towards the not to far off mountains. The snow was slow meltin' when we found what Buck figured was high enough in 'em Pop wouldn't follow. He hated the cold, living in the south all his life... Me n Buck just started cuttin' tress, him smoothin' two sides before we'd notch 'em n fit 'em close. We worked hard, him sometimes taking to the woods for a day or two lookin' for food."

Debra Ann took his hand and kissed the work hardened palm.

"I'm sorry Luis."

"No need. All that's made me what I am; brought me here n put me with you."

They rode silent for several minutes, Debra Ann close n holding his hand.

"You know Luis, I needn't know about your past. I am more then happy with the way we live; the man I married. What we share."

Luis half smiled as the ranch's windmill rose up n into sight, slow turning in the distance...

*

Tiffany Ann had sided Lucas near the whole ride back, the slow falling sun at their back. She was excited and kept asking about when n where and what she might need to travel. Lucas answered the best he could and then tried telling her to calm down; he hadn't told Linda Jean yet. He wished he hadn't told his now wount-up sister-in-law, but that seemed the easiest way to settle 'er down at the time and get back to the ranch n Linda Jean. Finally, his patience worn thin, he stopped their ride.

"Tiffany Ann, if you don't set your mind right and Linda Jean knows before I tell her: you'll not be going."

He saw the hurt wash over her face before he light touched the white n gold stallion's sides and broke him into a easy canter...

*

Linda Jean had only half listened to her mother n Luis Tee, her mind on Lucas n her sister and the deep anxiety that was slow growing inside. Something was wrong, she felt it.

She stepped off the porch, looking to the west in the direction Lucas had rode off in earlier. The sun was near gone, promising the night would be along soon. She didn't care about the buckskin wearing stranger, didn't care if he stayed in the bunk house or the barn; that would be up to Tom Poe. Her problem and thoughts were on her husband. He'd been to kind to her today. To lovey-dovey.

It was Luna that that put her hand on her shoulder.

"Shall I make you some after dinner tea Linda Jean."

The raven-haired woman shook her head before turning to look at her best friend.

"Something is wrong Luna. I can feel it."

Luna quietly agreed. She felt the same when Linda's mother n father had rode up with the stranger close behind. She'd sent Luke to quiet fetch her husband. There was something about the new arrival...

*

The long shadows made from behind by the setting sun and slow mixing into the coming dark made the last quarter mile to the ranch seem longer. Tiffany Ann was quiet, riding beside him again after promising she'd settle her doings. Lucas had leaned far over the short distance between them a short time later and patted her

on the knee.

"You go on ahead, I'll be no more than minute or two behind. I need a little bit."

Tiffany Ann knew him lagging a bit would make Linda Jean hurry toward whatever direction she just rode in from. And, she was right, her sister quick passing by with barely a hello. Her mama n Luis Tee was sitting the porch, Luna close by. Oddly, John and Luke n Rudy were sitting the porch steps too. Luke's twin, Linda must be tending the little ones. It were John that stood to gather Candy's reins.

"Evenin' Mama."

Tiff stepped down n kissed her oldest son on the cheek. He soft smiled and then led Candy to the barn. She moved onto the porch to soft smiles and a hard quiet.

"Something wrong?"

It were Luis that spoke.

"Not a thing young Lady now that you're home safe."

Tiff looked to her mother.

"You had us all a bit concerned Tiffany Ann. Linda Jean has been on pins n needles even before Lucas come home... I had Connie keep some dinner warm."

She took note when Luke quick stood up. She smiled at hers and went inside.

Lucas was walking in slow, his arm around Linda Jean, her leading the white stallion. When Luke went to take the animals reins, it bobbed it's head a bit to much. Rudy slipped past Luke, gentle taking the reins.

"Co-come on Snow. Me n Luke w-will take care of you."

Linda ruffled the round-faced boy's hair and smiled at her oldest.

"You keep an eye on Rudy."

She let her fingers trail over the white stallion as he was led past.

"And you be gentle now Snow."

If those watching didn't know better, they'd swear the magnificent animal answered his mistress with a rumbling yes from inside...

*

Blue watched the goings on near the yellow, oil lamp lit porch from the far side of the corral. Tom Poe had offered a empty bed in the bunk house. He asked if he could sleep in the huge barns loft. Tom shrugged his shoulders n went about his business. The Chestnut was stabled, the Pinto turned out in the front corral after he'd tended her needs. Blue was gentle speaking' to the Pinto now, admiring the dark-haired woman with the red silk around her neck and the same holding her coal black hair.

He imagined her like he saw her yesterday, their quick meeting earlier adding the finer details of her dark eyes, gentle smile, soft skin; the light scent she wore. He imagined her easin' into the water, her big ol' tittes gentle swaying, the water sparkling behind her.

"Well, what you thinkin' Horse... Same as I am I do believe. I'll be fuckin' Miss Debra Ann soon enough. Then I'll head back here n get me a sweet slice of pie from her pretty daught... ught..."

The huge arm that slipped around his neck n pullin' him tight kept him from reachin' his knife. The wide hand covering his mouth kept 'im quiet as he pulled his head back n let his arm close tighter under his chin. His arms swung around, breakin' the coolin' night air as he were pulled back and away from the white painted corral. He fought to breath, the color of the soft lit family turnin' near red through his bulgin' eyes. The grunt in his ear would be the last sounds he ever heard as the arm jerked tight again. He watched his life slip through his mind as his body slowly settled into the bleak darkness, his last remembering's fadin' along with it...

Smoke kept moving backwards, even after the young man stopped struggling. Sure he was out of sight, he dropped the fool that had been whisperin' what he planned on doin'. Drawing his long knife from his side, he sliced deep, well below the young man's jaw...

*

Linda Jean watched her husband quiet talking to Luis Tee on the far end of the porch. Her mother wasn't pleased Lucas had gotten a bottle of Lernid's and were passing it back n forth: Lucas half sitting on the porch rail n Luis leaning against the roof holding post. Luna had long ago headed home to tend to hers. John n Luke lingered on the porch's steps, both figuring on but not knowing what were going on. Smoke had hard hushed Luke after he told him his mother wanted to see him; a finger put to his lips. Luke hadn't seen 'im since. The boy was hard pressed not to say or ask anything...

*

Tom Poe watched the boys after their coming into the barn to tend the horses. All three were busy trying to do the best they could to please; Luke gentle helping Rudy to care for Snow, John fussing quiet with Candy. None of the three took note of Tom lingering near the back door in the dark corner of the barn as they finished n took their leave. Tom turned his quiet watching back to Blue. The young man had said he were going to bed n now, just after dark, was staying out of sight at the front corrals far end. Tom wasn't one to speculate, but he didn't like the young man or his arrogant way. He surely didn't like him watching the Blakes the way he were. He'd given the 'near man' a benefit of a doubt, letting 'im be as he stroked the fine-looking Pinto. What he saw next gave him pause.

The shadow of Smoke Garcia quiet moved behind Blue, wrapping one bear like arm around the boy's throat and his other powerful hand over his mouth. Smoke moved slow back into the deeper darknesses as the boy struggled for his life.

Tom didn't question why.

He had a choice. Join the card playing other hands in the bunk house or help Smoke keep what he'd seen quiet from the family. He didn't think twice as he collected a shovel n went to ready Smoke Garcia's horse...

Smoke stayed in the shadows, slow moving around the light from the windows of the bunkhouse n eased quiet into the barns back door next to it. He were surprised to see Tom Poe finish saddling Rojo, the Chestnut horse belonging to the Blue reined close. Ted Poe never stopped finishing what he were doin'.

"I saw the boy leaving just before sun-up. Said he wanted to get moving again."

He stopped n looked at Smoke.

"Damn fool kid took the Chestnut n left the Pinto."

Smoke only grunted.

"Anything else I can do fer you?"

Smoke extended his hand. Tom Poe took it.

"Gracias my Friend."...

*

Debra Ann slow stood n stretched like a waking up cat in the late night's cooling air.

"I'm heading to bed Old Man. You make sure you keep them cold feet off me when you finally decide to join me."

Both men stopped talking, the near empty bottle handed to Lucas.

"Hold on Woman. I figure the days been long enough for me too."

Debra Ann waited quiet until Luis opened the front screened door.

"Night Mama... Luis."

Linda Jean then looked to her husband.

"N just what do you have on your mind Mr. Blake."

Her husband slow eased to her, putting the bottle on the small porch table.

"I do believe you n I have some things to talk about..."

He bent and kissed his wife's upturned lips.

"... or do."

Linda Jean soft smiled.

"I think the talking can wait til Morning."...