ROLEPLAY HQ - dancing-with-fire

Far west on the endless prairie a small town bustles with the arrival of the railroad. Slat-board houses and two-story stores, saloons, and a bank line the dusty streets. The train station is the newest building, a tiny one barely enough room for a ticket counter and mail room. This is not a prominent stop, no traveler's wait to disembark into this provincial place. But nearly a mile outside of town is a much larger depot with corrals, pens, ramps and all the things needed for loading cattle. That is the real draw, a thriving trade that has made fortunes for men, especially for the Whitmore family. They've lived here for generations and currently James Whitmore serves as mayor of the town. On the opposite side of town from the cattle yards is a large manor with huge trees casting shade over the wrap-around porch and balconies. There are large dogs running around, chasing smaller wildlife and sticks. James sits on the porch, a sweating pitcher of something cold on the table next next him. He's wearing slacks with a button-down shirt, suspenders, and a patterned vest. There's a stack of papers in his hand, he's lazily flipping through them. Checking the auction notices, building requests, bank ledgers, and other work that comes across the mayor's desk. He keeps an eye on the main road, watching the thin traffic that comes in on it. His expression changes as he flips to the next sheet, a frown bringing the corners of his mouth down.

She was watching the plains as the train moved. What she did was crazy. She knew. Maybe she was never gonna get the job she always dreamed of, but she was never gonna bow to her father to force her to live his dreams. She was not gonna be like her elder sister. Lilura was the most talented one between her sisters. She Has experienced both being the elder and younger sister as she was the middle one. While her younger Cassia was a careless brat, Lilura was aware of her responsibilities. And mostly to herself. That was why she decided to run away while Cassia was waiting for a proper husband to marry. She opened her eyes when the ticket inspector walked into her compartment. She smiled and reached for her valet but it was not there. She reached for her bag and started to expose everything one by one but no, her valet was missing. She raised her turquoise eyes to the huge man. “I can not find my wallet.” she said panicked because all her money was there aside from the ticket. “You girls need to find a new trick Missy.” he said and walked in towering her just before grabbing her arm. “What are you doing?!” she tried to fight back while she was trying to gather her bag but she was too late. The man was already dragging her out. The fear was spreading all over her body. No one could touch her like this back at home as she was the daughter of the sheriff, but here? She was nothing. Before she knew it she found herself out of the train. “My luggage!” she yelled for the man but he did not even care as the train moved. She ran aside the train a for a few but when she understood that they were not gonna give her the luggage she gave up. Her proper up-do was messed up. She stood there and placed her hand on her belly trying to breath and looked around where the fuck was she?

He stood up slowly, dropping the other papers into his chair and hanging onto just this one. It was a response to a notice of eviction. The homesteaders had hired a lawyer... how had they been able to afford that? This was going to be a thorn in the side of his plans. He was the mayor of Horizon, and just like his forefathers for three generations, he was responsible for seeing it grow. Of course, that was more difficult for him since the government had given away all the land around here to whatever homeless vagabond was able to stick a stake into the ground. That system had worked fine in the beginning but now, with ranchers looking for more land and a town that was growing beyond it's one dirt road, he needed to appeal to a better class of person. It was time to visit the bank, he needed more information on this family. Were they behind on their payments? How was their seed loan? Did they expect to bring in enough of a crop this year to stay current? There had to be something. James whistled once for the dogs, no sense in letting them make trouble while he was away. Then whistled again for his horse, it was always saddled up in the morning, ready for him when he needed it. The large brown stallion came around the corner and he climbed up with easy practice. As he started down the path to the road, he thought that maybe he'd stop by the saloon first for a drink and to catch up on the latest gossip.

TripleAught started a thread. 6/11/2023 9:39 AM

Lilura let out a curse behind the train and turned to walk towards the down. She gave a deadly gaze to the man sitting in the ticket cabin with a wide grin. Bastard she thought. The road was long and there were businesses and houses at both sides. It was obvious that she was a stranger as all eyes were on her as she walked through the road. She had no clothes, no place to stay and worse than all, no money to eat. She stopped in front of the saloon. The whores were watching her and giggling. There were exchanging money and she would bet that they were betting on her to join them or not. Saloon was the best place to learn gossip and that was the best way to make an article for the newspaper. When she finally gathered her courage to walk in all eyes, shamelessly turned to her. She took a deep breath and walked to the bar. Her arm leaned to the counter and her eyes found the barman. “I need a job…” she said, being direct as always. “And not the job of them…” she pointed at the whores with her eyes.

The barman barely looks up as Lilura speaks to him. He is an older man, thin like he's lived in the West for a long time, but with a mustache that looks like something you might see in New York. He looks down the bar littered with dirty plates and half finished glasses, then continues unloading bottles from a crate under the bar to the shelves behind him. "You gonna order a drink?" He asks with a drawl that feels like a second language. Something he's learned but never quite got comfortable with. As he continues to unload bottles and wait for your answer, a man walks through the swinging doors. He's wearing a duster, button-down shirt with a vest over it, and blue jeans - a new material that's quickly becoming favored by cowboys. He barely glances at the bar but gives a long look up to the second floor. A couple of the whores there wave to him, he gives a half smile and tip of his hat then sits down at an empty table. A clean table, there are no dishes and it looks dry like it was wiped down a while ago and has just been waiting. He collapses into a chair that allows him to face the room. His eyes scan, looking to see which regulars are here and who he might bring over to his little court. He pays no heed to the bartender who's already pulled out a glass and is pouring a drink. But, when he sees Lilura, he stops and cocks his head slightly. After a moment, he goes back to looking around the room. The barman comes over to Lilura with a drink in hand. "You want a job, missy? Take this here drink over to Mayor Whitmore and mind you don't spill any. You don't want to work like them girls," he gestures with his head, "that one is your best bet."

She hated the idea that she had to serve men drinks but did she have any other choice after losing her money and even her clothes. She turned and looked over her shouler to the man who was sitting on the table. He was at least decent looking, not a drunk junk… She turned to look at the barman. “If I manage this I will have a room and my meals..” she said and did not even gave a chance to the man to reply. She did not have an option to bargain. Lilura grabbed the tray holding it like a true waitress. She had carried trays bfore at home thanks to her mother. She corrected her posture and turned around herself and started to walk toward the man. She stopped next to the table and placed a professional smile on her face. “Your drink Sir.” she said and placed his drink in front of him. Maybe she was too formal for this place? She did not really care. “Would you like anything else?” she asked with her sweetest tone holding te tray at her front with her both hands.

He watches the woman bring his drink over to him with an appreciative gaze - appreciating her face, hair, shape, and grace of movement. There is mirth in his eyes as Lilura sets the drink in front of him. He picks it up with a half smile and tilts it in a cheers before taking a big swig. "Hey Dale," he calls to the bar keeper, "you running the Ritz Carlton now?" Behind the bar, Dale laughs and spits into a spittoon on the ground beside him. "A low-class joint like that hasn't got anything on this here fine establishment. That little bird thinks she's working for me, downstairs, and wants a room for it. Think she'll be disappointed to learn she's gonna have to bunk with me? I don't have the stamina I used to." He laughs again and from the balcony above some of the girls laugh too. James joins with them, then finishes off his drink and sets the glass back on the tray. He sweeps his arm around the room, "You're going to work here? The only clients are cowboys and drunks, neither of which are interested in 'service' unless it comes from them." He nods upwards with his head. After pausing for a moment, an idea forming in his mind, he reaches back up and knocks the glass off the tray. It falls to the floor and shatters. "Hey Dale, I think you need to fire this one. First day on the job and she's breaking your finest dishes. Wasn't that crystal?" Then he turns to Lilura, "Looks like you might be back on the market, miss. Maybe we should talk."

She watched the man taking a sip from his drink and then talked to the bartender abdour Ritz Carlton. Dammit! She knew she was too good for this place. The answer was not any less disturbing. Little bird? Seriously??? Bunking with him? She wanted to gag. Her eyes started to fill as she never deserved that treatment. She could be in the city she wanted looking for her dream job but now she was dealing with those dumb men. She closed her eyes to calm herself down With the sound of the broken glass she opened her eyes and looked at James in shock. What the heck was he doing? Did he really dare to do that? Her gaze turned to Bartender and narrowed. She placed the tray on the table “No you are not firng me! I am quitting!” she snarled and threw a tough gaze up to the girls who were giggling up there. Whole saloon was watching but she did not care. She simply walked out not really caring about James's words about her being on the market. She surely was not on the market for that a.hole who cost her her job. She sat on the deck, her eyes filled and started to watch the street. The night was coming and she did not even have a place to stay.

Sounds emanate from inside the saloon: a chair scraping as it pushes back, then boots on the wooden planks of the floor, an unintelligible conversation, and more unmistakable laughter. James saunters back out through the hinged doors, thumbs in his belt. He walks up behind Lilura and reaches out, batting at a lock of her hair. "My, my, you are a fiesty one. I don't think I've ever seen anyone quit on Dale that quickly. Which is saying something considering who he mainly hires." James laughs at this and some memory it has sparked for him. He walks around Lilura, down a couple steps and stands in front of her. "So, what's your story girl? You show up in my town and quit the first job you get? And by the looks of it, you don't have any luggage or anything. You mean to get off here in Horizon?"

She tried to ignore him. She could feel his presence at her back and she did not like it. She was looking to the street and she had no intention to turn back to face him. As he mentioned, yes she was a feisty one. She did not reply to his words, ignoring them fully as surely that was not the truth. He caused it. He caused her to leave her job and she needed it badly. No matter the idea of sharing the bad with that rat disgusted her, was it better than staying in the street? Her gaze raised up once he finally stood in front of her blocking the sun that was bothering her eyes. He was tall and kind of attractive but that did not matter to her right now. Her eyes moved up and down on him and finally raised up to land on his. She slowly raised from the steps and faced him. “You cost me a job, now you need to pay me for that. I need a place to stay and a job…” she said, not sure if she should explain more. Who was she even talking to? She shook her head in disbelief that she was even bothering to talk to him and turned to walk away. After a couple steps she stopped. It was clear that there was a war in her mind. A war that she was giving with herself. Being the daughter of a sheriff she had never bowed to anyone. But now she had to if she did not want to stay on the street. She turned back once more and stepped closer. “Someone stole my wallet on the train and the ticket man was not kind enough to give my luggage…” she explained with a softer tone. She needed him. “I don't want charity. I am ready to work…” she eyes turned to the ladies of the saloon and back to him… “A decent job.” she added.

His eyes narrow a little when she start saying "you need..." as he contemplates if Lilura really expect him to be in her debt after her little outburst. He seems to pause as well when she turns and tells him the rest of the story. "So let me see if I have this right. You're only here by mistake. You're not planning to stick around. And in the meantime, you've got nowhere to stay, nothing to wear, and no money to get back on the train. "Here I was going to ask you if you can cook or clean, I might be able to find a place for you on my household staff. But, that seems like a big hassle to get you to learn just how I like things if you're going to up and split the first chance you get." He pulls on his chin for a moment, thinking. She would be like an unbroken colt in a domestic job, bucking against authority until she was broken and learned her place. But, sometimes, what you need is that wild energy. Sometimes you find someone who can do the jobs that might take someone willing to push, willing to demand... "I need" goes running through my head again. "I might have something for you though. You see, you didn't realize it in there but you're talking to the mayor of this here town. And you're lucky I'm the first one you ran into. This is still the frontier after all, even if it does continue to move west. "Anyway, as mayor, I'm seen as something of local royalty. My family has been running this town for three generations. It makes me easy to recognize but also makes it hard for me to talk to the, let's say, common man. "Things are changing out here. I could use someone who can get out to the people - especially some of the homesteaders that don't live quite so close - and find the pulse of them for me. If you want to think of it in big city terms, you'd be like my own personal newspaper." He pauses again, looking her over once more, then walks over to the post where his horse is tethered. "If you're interested, grab your things," he laughs at his own joke,

4:44 PM

"and climb on up. Or you can just follow the road that way," and he points along the dusty road out of town, "you can't miss my house. I'll have someone make up a bed for you."

She watched the man as he explained. She was silent and simply watching him. Analyzing his body language. He was the mayor, yes. He was handsome hell yes. But there was something that was bothering her which she could not put her finger on. Joining his household was surely an option but she was not really a domestic type of girl. She surely would be more useful at outside jobs and he was very right that she was good at communications. More than your personal newspaper, it sounds like your personal negotiator. You need to explain to me further.” she said before she decided to work with him or not. Though it was clear that she did not have much choice. She could not stay outside and that man was giving her a home and a job. “And you did not mention a salary for me.” Her eyes opened as he walked to his horse and made a non funny joke. Not to her especially considering her situation. She really did not have the strength to walk all the way to his house so she walked to him and raised her hand for him to help her up. “Just because you insist” she murmured trying to relax herself. She hated the idea that she needed him.

James leans over in the saddle and grabs her hand. His grip is firm, though his hands aren't nearly as calloused as a working cowboy's, and the muscles flex and strain under his shirt. He is the mayor but not one who has gone soft by hiding away in his office all day. He slides forward on the saddle, getting close to the pommel, leaving just enough room for Lilura to sit behind him. Close behind him, their bodies pressed together as she holds on. He clicks the reins and gives a quick, deliberate kick which starts the horse walking down the road. It's a quiet town, only a few people living in the town proper - mostly above other types of establishments. A few people look out windows or off balconies as the pair on horseback rides by. Undoubtedly by tomorrow morning, everyone in this little village will know of Lilura's arrival. Near the outskirts of town, it looks like construction is starting on a tenement house. From the looks of it, the living spaces will be small but not uncomfortably so. The sounds and smells of cattle waft through the air but not strongly enough to be irritating. The sounds of people walking, talking, shopping, arguing, and other things you'd expect wherever people gather provides additional background noise. The sun is hanging low on the horizon and it lights up the fields of wheat and pastureland that opens up as the horse clears the building. "So tell me, what should I be calling you? I don't think you took too well to 'little bird' back there in the saloon. Which means you probably don't want me picking a pet name for you either."

Lilura climbed up to his back and placed her hands to his sides slightly blushing. She had never been that close to a stranger. The road she started with huge dreams crossed this man whom she was not familiar with. She managed her balance as the horse moved forward. The unfamiliar sight around her was interesting to Lilura. First time out of her home and she was already in trouble. The curious gaze was all over them. There was a young woman sitting behind their mayor. The question in their mind was clear. Who was she? The thoughts faded away when he broke the silence. "I am not a pet to be named. " She said with a non offended tone. "Lilura is good " she simply replied.

"Lilura. That's a pretty name, rolls off the tongue. Not something you'd find a girl around here calling herself either." He says all this without looking back. The horse continuing it's slow steady pace down the road. "Name's James by the way. James Whitmore. Breed, born and raised right here in Horizon and since my father retired, the good people of this town saw fit to have me take up his duties." He seems unconcerned about the stares from the townsfolk, occasionally tipping his hat when passing someone. He doesn't stop, even when a man tries to get his attention. In the saddle, he rides easily. Not leaning forward to make space between them but also not leaning backwards to crowd Lilura. After a few minutes, just shy of a mile from town, a row of old trees sprouts up, lining the road and providing shade. About halfway, there is a gap and a long, hard packed lane up to a two story house. It is a large house with some obvious additions but well maintained. There's a large front porch that wraps around the sides of the house. Two dogs lie on the porch, dozing in the afternoon sun. To one side is a small stable and barn. To the other side are outhouses and a pump. "It ain't much but it's home," he says before letting out a loud whistle that brings a middle-aged Mexican woman out from the house. She shouts a few things back into the house in Spanish and a general bustle ensues as the servants prepare to receive them.

Lilura did not really commented on his compliment about her name. She would not want to give the man the wrong impression especially while she was in a deep shit already under his command. "Nice to meet you." she said breaking her silence but that was all she would say. She did not want to talk too much as she knew it would get her in more trouble if she had given information about who she really was. She was sure her father was already looking for her but as he was aware of her dreams he surely would not look for her in such a small town. Unless , of course if one of his spies send him the news. The eyes on her was already disturbing. People were looking to this stranger girl who was sitting behind their mayor. Who the hell was she? She could even swear that she had seen jealousy in the eyes of some women. Only if they knew... When they finally arrived to the house she curiously eyed around. Dogs were bad news as that meant she would not be able to sneak out without his awareness. She had to find a way to get her way with the beasts. When the horse stopped she watched the woman getting out of the house who was clearly trained way better than the dogs. She slowly slid down from the horse and organized her messed up gown. She was sure she was looking like hell. "I hope those ladies have some outfits that would fit me, Sir." she murmured. This man was surely not married so he would not have any lady clothes in his house other than the clothes of those ladies. Her eyes moved up to the man over his horse. The son was not letting her see him so she shadowed it with her hand. "Will I be staying with them? "

James climbed easily off the horse, swinging one leg up high and stepping out of the stirrup with the other and he hopped down. He looked at the dogs with a little annoyance since they hadn't stirred at his arrival. He looked over a Lilura then back at the housekeeper. "Well, I reckon they do have something you could wear but it's going to be Mexican work dresses like what they've got on." The housekeeper is wearing a practical garment in bright colors and print that's very different from what most western American women wear. She also looks over at Lilura with an appraising eye, then says, "Si, tengo ropas para la mujer." James nods and translates, "She says she's got something you can wear. But you'd be better off with a pair of denims and a long shirt. I still want you to make some rounds for me and riding in a dress won't be easy." He strides up onto the porch, talking over his shoulder but not looking back. "We'll talk all about that after dinner. Why don't you come inside, I'll show you to your room. And don't worry, you won't be sleeping with the help." With that, he opens the door and heads into the house.

Lilura watched him getting off the horse. He surely was handsome but at the same time as much annoying. The servant was watching them curiously surely not sure who the hell that new girl was. Her eyes turned back to James as he exchanged with the servant and translated back to Lil. "Jean?" she asked almost shocked. Her father woul never allow her. She was a Lady... But maybe the key word there was "was" She was now his pawn which was not making her comfortable. Following him to the porch she was still listening to him. "Am I gonna have dinner with you?" she asked surprised. And the next sentence was more surprising. If she was not gonna stay with the servants where was she gonna stay? She hesitated for a moment. But followed him inside. Her heart was beating as hell. The sound of that bartender was still ringing in her ears. If this man was planning to sleep with her he was so wrong. She would better sleep outside. Silence was her friend right now as she followed his steps. First she wanted to see her room and learn where was his.

The inside of the mansion is well-lit and tidy. There is a small staff that moves about - not in the way but keeping things straightened, cleaned, and ready for use. James moves easily, dropping his hat on a post then heading towards a large staircase. He beckons Lilura to follow, then proceeds as if assuming she will. On the second floor, the hallway heads off in either direction from the stairs. He points to the left, "The master bedroom and my office are down that way." Then he turns to the right and begins walking again, "the guest rooms are this way, unfortunately, they're over the kitchen so it might be a bit hot and loud. Hope that meets your high standards." The room he leads Lilura to is a modest bedroom, a wooden floor with a rug in the sitting area. A double-sized bed with a decent looking mattress, pillows, and a patterned blanket turned down at the top showing cotton sheets. There is a small vanity with a mirror and a bowl with a pitcher next to it. The pitcher is empty. There is a closet on one side of the room, it isn't deep but has shelves for clothing and a bar for hanging clothes. There is also a window on one wall, overlooking the front of the house, with a clear view to the trees alongside the road. "I assume that you'll be more comfortable knowing you will be sleeping alone tonight. I'll have Maria bring you some clothes later. She'll also let you know when dinner is ready. Please, take some time to make yourself comfortable."

Lilura walked behind him like a tail watching around curiously. The house she was grown up was good but this was even better. That was why her father wanted to marry her off the mayor probably. She could not help but smirk when she thought he must have got nuts when he found out she was gone. She turned and looked to the left when he mentioned his bedroom and the study. And she turned to follow him back to the right wing. She was grateful that rooms were not even close. When she walked into the room the first thing she checked was if there were proper locks. After the conversation in the saloon she would not trust any of those men. "I am not really looking for my standards Sir as all I need is a place where I can stay safely. But I have compliment that your house is actually over my standards." she gave him a kind smile before turned all serious again. She would not like to give him any false hope. She walked inside the room and moved her finger tips over the bed. Her head did not turn back to him when she started to speak. "Do you often have guests?" she walked closer to the window and could not help but smile with the view. Maybe she could stay here more than she was expecting. She surely was not gonna find a better place if she were to reach her destination and found a job. She turned to face him locking her gaze boldly to his face. What did her mean that she would be sleeping alone tonight? Was it only tonight? Was he planning to sleep here with her? Or even worse was he planning to sell her to other men? She gulped. "Thank you Sir, I appreciate your help." she said kindly. Maybe being nice would help.

James watches her as she walks around the room. Eyes moving up and down, finally getting a chance to really evaluate her. She was definitely attractive, a nice shapely body, and a face that was cute even when she pouted - which seemed perpetual. He shook his head slightly, thinking it was a shame that she was so skittish about anyone crossing her own defined lines of propriety. He breaks out of his reverie when she asks about guests. "What? Other guests... oh, well, it's not too common but when someone important is coming through for an auction or visit, I do often host them here. Wouldn't want the VIPs to be slumming with the whores, now would we." He smirks at her just a little. "Now, I don't want to spoil your dinner, but I do want to remind you that you're here to interview for a job not just take advantage of my hospitality. Depending on how far you're aiming to go, I reckon you'd need to put in about two or three weeks here. Might seem like an eternity to you, but I promise it will go quick. "I'll have the details for you after dinner, be ready to talk business and make sure you're giving me a fair shake. I don't want some big-city girl coming in here and taking advantage of a poor, old country boy." He laughs again then turns and leaves Lilura alone in her room.

No. He would not ruin her dinner. Her whole dream was already ruined. A job interview would not scare her. Especially after he mentioned sleeping with whores. Yes she turned right from the point and even from worse, the bartender. Lilura simply nodded to the man and watched him leaving her room. She was surely not a city girl, not yet at least. But she did not correct him. She walked back to the window and watched the trees in thoughts. Maybe she had to see what kind of money he had to offer and she could even stay to make more money. If she did not have to pay for the hotel and the meals that would greatly help her to save up and she could even start her newspaper in this little town. On the other hand, her father knew well Lilura hated small towns. No one would look for her here. Especially not in the house of a stranger. A smiled curled her lips and she went to the bed laying over the clean sofy blanket. It did not take her more than a couple minutes to drift into a comfortable sleep.

James was already in the dining room when dinner is called. It's a stately room with dark paneled walls and a long, glossy table with a tableoth thrown over it. The table is only set for two, across from each other on the short side of the table, not separated end-to-end as would normally be the custom. On the table are an assortment of dishes that all have smells of mexican spices and chilis. Everything is hot, with a number of dishes covered to keep them warm until they are served. The staff is busy but out of the way, brining in plates and disappearing back into the kitchen. James was ready for this meal. He knew how to wine and dine his guests, and even though he expected he get this girl to do what he wanted, all the better if she was on-board and thinking that it was an important job. She needed to be convinced that this was something she wanted to do for him. She'd acted a bit peculiar coming out of the saloon, he got the feeling that she didn't come from a family that had required her to work. She had some skills but seemed appalled at the idea of doing what you had to do to survive. He would have to be careful not to trigger that response in her again. Maybe a new approach was necessary. When Lilura arrives, she is shown to her seat. As dishes are served onto each of their plates, James opens the conversation. "Well, Lilura, I appreciate you accepting my hospitality and I hope you do enjoy a good Mexican meal. I find it's what they're best at, so why fight it? And, while I've shared a little about myself and my town, I realize that I know little about you beyond your name. Tell me, where do you come from? And what were you aiming for before finding yourself here?"

Lilura jumped from her sleep when one of the servers knocked on the door. The dinner was ready. She slowly raised in the bed took her face in her hands trying to digest all has happened. She had to get up and get that job that she desperately needed. She knew she was too good for this job but her main target was money, not the career. She got up and organized her dress and did her hair again. At least she was now looking presentable. She splashed some water to her face and walked down to the dining room. The room was filled with the scent of spices. A familiar tone from their own kitchen, not cooked for them but the servants themselves. The table was set for two yet not far from each other. She really did not know what to think about it. Maybe the servants were not trained well or the man had his own agenda. * No drinks Lil...* she though to herself. When Lilura approached to the table a servant held her chair yet the man did not show the courtesy to raise at least. She had to remind herself that this is just a small town and she was not the princess in her own house. "I appreciate it Sir." she said meaning his hospitality. "Actually I dont have much to tell. I lost my family lately and I was heading to the city to get a journalist job. And the unfortunate occasion forced me to stay here. To be honest I am not in a rush. Actually I was think maybe I could stay here more depending on the circumstances." she said. It was good idea to hide here for some time so that her father could not find her. And after a year or so they would give up anyways. "So I would love to hear about that job. I need you to be open and specific. I would like to know what am I expected to do."

James flipped out his napkin and then laid it across his lap. He started to spoon some food from one of the dishes as Lilura gave her brief explanation. He moves on to take some rice and beans, nodding politely until realizing that Lilura has already finished what she was saying. "Well hold on now, that seems a mighty short story with a lot of kick hiding in it. You lost your family? Surely you have other relatives that would take you in? Heading off to the city with no parents - and now no clothes apparantly - why I don't know how you'd survive it. No, I guess there's more to your story..." He takes a few bites, closing his eyes and savoring the taste of it all. When he opens them again he waves vaguely at a wall with his fork. On the wall is a map of the town and surrounding homesteads. The map doesn't encompass too much land, so the scale is fairly large, giving plenty of room for detail. "Horizon is what you could call a boom town. One minute it was all farmers just trying to scrape by and now, well look at it now. A proper town, on the map, and with a bustling main street. I mean, hell, we even have our own saloon and brothel." He waves at the map again. "But it's the cattle auctions that really make the difference. They are the secret of my success. Since we're on the rail line, it's a lot easier to bring cows in and ship them back out. But, cattle take space. Lots of space... which we would have except that the government just gave land away back in the day. Gave it away to anyone willing - or crazy enough - to take it. "All I need you to do is ride out to a couple of these properties and carry an offer from me to the homesteaders to purchase their lands. It gives them a nice chunk of change to go... further... west and gives me the space to spread out my livestock. "Nothing to it really, shouldn't take much time and then you can be back on your way to the big cty."

Him, pushing about her past did not really help. She slowly took her napkin and gently laid it over her lap. Her gaze once more raised to him. "I am sorry my story did not satisfy your needs yet thats all. I dont have any other family and yes neither clothes. She reached and took some food to her plate too. She was doing her best to look normal. Her gaze turned to the map as he explained. She knew how pushy a mayor could be. Back in her own town he was driving her nuts sometimes. The man boldly even tried to flirt with her. She could not help but rolled her eyes with the memory before giving her full attention to the man in front of her. "So from what I understand those people do not want to send their lands to you. Else you would not need me to go convince them..." she smirked cutting her food. She actually enjoyed the idea that the man needed her. She took a bite and swallowed it before raising her eyes to his once more. "Why?" she asked in a demanding way. She surely was not stupid as he was not. While he noticed her story about her family was bullshit, Lilura knew well the story of him was not that short also. There surely was more to it. "I am interested in you offer." she said "BUT!" she smiled at him..."One... you will tell me why you do not make the offer yourself bu use me instead? Two... I will stay here , you will give me my full meals, and provide me the clothes of MY choice. And lastly..." she was still hearing that disgusting bartender. "You will not even dream on laying a hand on me..." she stated her rules "And of course we still need to talk about the price..." she grinned

James looks at her for a long moment. Then finally he smiles and nods towards one of the servants who has been waiting along the side of the room. The man carries over a tray with two bottles and two shot glasses on it. One of them is already filled with a clear liquid. The man sets the small glass in front of James before walking around the table to present Lilura with a bottle of light gold liquid and a bottle of dark red wine. James takes the glass and drinks it down in one gulp, sucking in air as he finishes it. "Tequila. Mexican alcohol but quite good. Will get you drunk faster than a Mexican reciting the rosary, so be careful with it." He stands up and walks over to the map. Looking at some of the detail and tracing it with his finger. "Why do I need you? That's a good question. I suppose on the one hand, I don't." He pauses and looks back at Lilura with an arch expression. "I could ride out there and make the offers. Hell, I've tried it once or twice already. But what you have to understand about homesteaders is they feel that this land is their manifest destiny. That God, or some higher power, brought their father's here and therefore here is where they must stay." He runs his finger along the railroad line to the edge of the map. "But what they don't understand is that the life they've built over the last few generations is going to disappear before their eyes. Like river sand through a gold sieve but all they'll be left with is the empty pan. The railroad changes everything, we don't need to rely on the food they can grow, and as they have no other income, they'll eventually struggle. Maybe not to eat, they are farmers, but what about when the barn needs repairs? Or when their children need new clothes? When a tornado comes through and rips the roof right off their house? Well, they'll likely default to the bank and be evicted with nothing." He walks around the table towards Lilura, standing at the corner. "Why do I need you to say all that? Because yo

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u're change, you're not someone who's lived here their whole life. My credibility is high for matters of governing the town - I know the people, I know the needs we have - but they don't believe me when I say that leaving town is their best option. That going north to Colorado or Wyoming will give them new land to settle, to keep their lifestyle. Please, this is their best chance at the life they want, surely you must relate to that." "I'll pay you five dollars for proof of every offer you deliver. And another ten dollars for every homesteader that sells. That will more than pay for the train ticket and ought to give you enough to find a place in the city when you leave." It's an extravegant amount of money, the five dollars is nearly what the staff makes here in a month. And the map shows at least eight homesteads nearby, possibly more at the edges. "As for your board, I've already said that I will host you, so long as you're in my employ." James takes a step closer and gives you a meaningful look. He's offering a job but there are consequences for turning it down. "As for your clothes, we have a general store and a fairly handy seamstress. You won't be getting fancy dresses but they should work. I will deduct the cost of those from your wages. It ain't my fault after all that you arrived with no luggage." James takes another step closer until he's pratically at Lilura's side. "And as for laying a hand on you," he steps behind Lilura, bending down so she can feel his warm breath on her neck, then whispers in her ear, "I won't dream of it while I'm asleep." He straightens but stays behind Lilura's chair, forcing her to either turn to look at him or stare at the map and empty room before her.

Lilura looked at the man drinking Tequila. Hell no she was not going to drink that. Not while she was talking business. She reached and grabbed the red wine and placed it on the table. She was gonna drink it later when she was alone in her room. Her eyes followed the man moving around the room. She was making the math of everything he was saying. She was calculating good and bad. A wide grin spread her face. The amount he offered to pay was bullshit. "So you are telling me, you CANNOT convince those guys to sell because they do not want to sell YOU. So actually you need me... unlike you say." she said and leaned her back remaining silent for a few moments. Her eyes followed him to her side and then she did not turn her face when he walked to her back. James was a handsome, charming man. Under different circumstances she could even like him. But his breath which smells tequila right now was just... lets say annoying. "You will pay 5 full outfits, and no you will not cut it from my salary. Consider it as an investment to your pawn... You would like a homeless looking girl represent you." she said and smirked raising her chin a little. "I will stay here during the work and till all the lands you want is bought. I will not leave for my real destination." her voice was pretty confident. "And I will get money only for sold lands which is %5." she paused for a moment checking the air in the room. "Ah.. and lastly... " she paused again and this time her face was serious along with her voice. "If you ever walk in my comfort zone again, I will simply leave... and the deal is off." She was not a prostitute and she was not gonna be one for a train ticket.

James rolls his eyes as Lilura continues to wield the little power she has in this negotation like a hammer. He frowns slightly at the end, when she commands him not to enter her 'comfort zone.' There was definitely more to this girls story, she would not act like this if she were truly a desperate orphan. This is the air of someone who has been raised as a petty tyrant in her household, likely someone with authority in her own hometown. She has not earned any reason to be respected or obeyed, and yet she rattles off orders as though it were second-nature. Maybe he was going to have to break her like a colt after all. An idea that seemed to appeal to him. He walks back around to his side of the table. Slowly. Pulling at his chin and making a show of considering everything she's said. "So if I have this right, you want to stay in my house, eat my food, drink my wine," he waves at the bottle she's taken off the serving tray. "You want me to clothe you and stay away from you in my own home. Alright, little princess, I can accept those terms as part of your negotiation. But on top of all that, you want me to pay you five percent of what I have to pay for the land I'm acquiring? That's ludicrous and will certainly make the total costs unreasonable. I'll meet the rest of your demands but the payment stands at five dollars for each delivered message and ten dollars for each sale. It's still a reasonable amount, hell, after two sales you'd have enough to get back on the train and live for a month or two wherever you're headed." He hasn't taken his seat, instead standing on the other side of the table, staring directly at Lilura. He folds his arms, a firm expression on his face.

She could feel that he was not pleased with her speech but she did not care. She was not anyone's whore and she had no intention to be. Her eyes followed him boldly as he walked back to his chair. He surely was considering. That was a good sign. If she was gonna be his pawn she was gonna make enough amount of money not to travel but to buy a newspaper. Yes she was gonna own one. At least that was the plan. No reply was given to his words other than the faint smile to the "princess". She remained quiet for a few moments as he stated the facts and the part he did not agree. Her gaze was locked to his. "You know Sir... I can just go to the train station and find something simple for the ticked man to give me a ticked instead and not deal with all those... I am not a messenger. I am a negotiator. And I am not gonna convince people for 10 bucks... 500 bucks for each land sold... 50 for delivering the message..."she kept on her bargain. Her eyes fell on the wine on the table. It was served to her and for a moment she wondered if there is somethimsg in it which should not be there. Her eyes went back to the man as she slowly raised from the chair. "Maybe you sleep over the idea and we talk the rest at breakfast..." she said and grabbed her bottle. Yes she was gonna go party in her room.

James sighs as Lilura petulantly grabs the bottle of wine and prepares to head to her room. This was a girl who definitely did not understand money. Well, he could bring a full set of figures down in the morning, undoubtedly looking at charts and cross-referencing prices for an hour would make her head spin. "Very well, why don't I sleep on your... offer. And, talking over breakfast sounds like a fine idea. I'll instruct Maria to make some fresh corn tortillas and migas to have in the morning. It's quite delicious, I'm sure you'll enjoy it." With that, James waves her off, giving her permission to leave the room. He makes no effort to walk her back up the stairs like he had done before. Instead, he sits back down at the table, picking at his food and looking back over at the map with a thoughtful expression.

Lilura was glad that she was finally gonna stay alone. She was scared while she was standing her ground solid. The feeling of his breath was still on her neck. With the bottle in her hand she turned and left the dining room. It had been months since she drank wine. She turned and looked at the bottle hoping that it was at least something good. Leaning the bottle to her lips she felt the warm sour liquid spread in her mouth. Life was an interesting thing. Yesterday she was in her bed and tonight she was far far away from home in a strange house with a strange man. She walked in the room up and down polishing her plan as she moisturized her mouth with the wine. The more she moved the more the wine started to affect. The room was now turning and it was making her nausea. She needed fresh air. She slowly walked to the window but it was stuck. "Damn!" she cursed and looked at the door not sure if she should leave the room or sleep. Next thing she remember was her shoes in her hand, she was moving down the stairs on her toes not to make noise and wake anyone up. She was not in a very pleasant situation to meet anyone. She was at the end a Lady, not a slut.

As Lilura creeps down the stairs, an old Mexican woman comes out from the kitchen, wiping her hands on her apron. "It is quiet at night in house. But now, little mouse is sneaking around. What do you go for, little mouse?" She goes to a pitcher of water on a side table, pours a glass, and offers it to Lilura. "That whole bottle, you drink? You need water now. Drink, drink. Maybe you come to kitchen? I show you how to make tortilla."

She surely was not expecting to be caught by a servant in the middle of the night. They were never sleeping? Her gaze moved over the woman. She was bold to call her a mouse and more to offer her to teach cooking. "No thank you..." she said for the cooking offer but took the water from her hands. She surely was burning. It did not take her more than a few seconds before she finished the glass and she handed it to the woman. "Gracias" she said and walked out of the house. She surely needed fresh air. The dogs were sleeping on the sides of the door. Lilura loved animals but right now she was not in the right mind to deal with them. When she started to walk in the garden one of the dogs raised his head and started to go after her. It was like he was watching her closely as she was wandering around the garden. "Papa does not let strangers alone in the garden?" Lil asked the dog patting his head. The back side of the house was not very well cared for. The dried log grass was covering everywhere but lil wanted to stay away from the eyes of people. All of a sudden the dog started bark towards her and she had no idea what the heck was going on... "Shhhh!" she growled. "Fucking dog...shut up! You are gonna awaken people." but that moment she felt a pain at her ankle and the last thing she saw was a snake sliding away. She has already drank and the fear was not helping. The world started to turn and her body fell on the floor unconscious.

The cook walks out of the house onto the back porch when she hears the barking. "Oy, naughty pero, keep yourself quiet. Mister is sleeping. And girl might get scared of you." She starts to head back inside but the dog doesn't stop. She turns, grabbing a stick lying on the ground, and starts to march towards it determined to give it a smack if it won't behave. When she sees Lilura lying on the ground, she assumes that she just fell down drunk. She comes over with the stick, and a new target now. "Foolish girl! You still too drunk. Go back to bed." She pokes at Lilura with the stick but gets no response. "Ah dios mio. I am not carry you." She smacks at the top of her legs but still no movement. The dog, seeing that it's not going to get hit, slips in closer and begins licking at Lilura's ankle. The cook is frowning. She absently shoos the dog away from her but then notices what it was licking. She squats down in her dress and peers in the darkness at two red welts beginning to enflame. A panic creeps onto her face and she begins to shout. "Serpiente! Serpiente! Ven rapido!! Someone help. Maria!! Pablo!! Mr. Whitmore!!" Her commotion has soon roused more people from the house. Her husband and son spring into action. The older one tying a tight strip of fabric around your leg to keep the poison from moving through your body. They younger jumping onto a horse bareback and riding towards town to fetch the doctor. The older man goes to saddle a horse after tying up Lilura's leg and rides off a few minutes later as well. At this point, James has been woken up and given a quick update on what's happened. "God damn snakes. She must have stepped right on it to get bitten at night. Hasn't she ever stepped foot outside her own house before? She should have known how dangerous this was." Even as he complains, there is a note of worry in his voice. He picks Lilura up and carries her to the upstairs bedroom. A couple of the Mexican woman help take Lilura's dress off, wrapp

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ing her in one of their own housedresses that can easily be pulled up to expose just her one leg. They bring boiled water mixed with herbs and use a cloth dab at the site of the wounds. In less than an hour, a disheveled man comes up the stairs and into the room. He is wearing spectacles and carries a black bag. He asks when this happened, when the leg was tied, and what else has been done. He nods professionally as everything is told to him. "She's a lucky girl," he says to James, "your staff seems to know how to treat this, as best they can. Impressive what Mexicans can do with their native medicinal skills. And becaues of that, looks like she won't lose the leg. Still too early to tell but I'm hopeful." He asks for a basin and some more towels then pulls out a large syringe. He spreads Lilura's legs, leaving one covered, and finds a vein on her inner thigh, plunging the needle in deep and drawing the plunger out until it's full. He squirts it into the basin and repeats a few more times. "Feels like I'm still using leeches but it's the best way to deal with poison. Try to remove as much of the infected blood as you can, hope the body can take care of the rest." When he's finished, he pulls out a different, smaller syringe and gives Lilura a shot of morphine. Then he removes the bandage from her leg, which was beginning to turn a dull shade of purple. "That should keep her sleeping for now, get her through the worst of the pain and blood rushes back into her leg and poison creeps out into her body. I'll come back in a day to check on her, fetch me if she takes a turn for the worse." And with that he packs up his bag and leaves down the stairs again.

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James has been quiet through most of this. His mind bouncing between thoughts. On the one hand, this is a setback to his plan. He doesn't want to let too much time go by before those homesteaders feel the pressure to sell again. And on the other hand, Lilura actually looks peaceful in this moment. Whatever she's running from, whatever she has to prove, is all smoothed out in the bliss of the morphine shot. He stands beside her bed and lays the back of his hand on her cheek. This fiery, beautiful girl. If she could be tamed, she could be quite someone to have around. He sighs and turns to leave. He will have to see what happens when you wake up... if you wake up.

Lilura was unaware of all the mess going around her. She was lucky that the man moved some of her blood off and then used the morphine else she would be over the clouds without coming back again. It was not an easy situation even while she was sleeping. The nightmare she was running from was not leaving her alone. She was sweating, talking at times, begging for someone to stop. Anyone who was watching her would know that she was coming from hell. She was aware of the surroundings yet she was not sure if it was real or just another dream. People were coming in and out of her room including James and he was even spending time with her. Finally after 38 hours she asked for water… She was not sure if there was anyone in the room but her mouth was dry… MEANWHILE BACK AT LILURA’S HOME Lil’s mother and her younger sister were silently standing at the side of the dimly lighted room. 5 men were standing in front of the Sheriff, not daring to raise their eyes from the floor either. “Five useless rats!” the words echoed in the room. “Are you telling me a young woman can pack her luggage and leave, passing through 5 of you and you did not even have an idea about it?” He slammed his hand on his desk. “What am I paying you for?! To sleep?” he growled once more. The eyes of Liliana were closed shut. The rage of her father was not something she would like to see. But the words coming after made her heart sank… Her eyes found the young men in the middle of the five… Killian. “Now go and find my daughter. Whoever brings her back, he will have the right to marry her! And the rest… don't even bother to get back to this town as there will be no life for you here.Now get the hell out of my sight” his voice was rising in the silent room.

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Liliana turned her gaze to her father. The hatred was visible. First he caused her sister to run away and now he was stealing the love of her life. Not that Killian was aware of her feelings but still he was either gonna marry Lilura or leave the town. Five men silently left home but Lilian could see the gleam in their eyes of the hope they could marry the beautiful Lilura. That was of course if they could find her. When the door closed behind them she came back to the moment with the sound of the slap her mother had. “Did you help her?” he roared. The poor woman was on the floor trying to protect herself from another upcoming slap or maybe even a kick. “No!” she replied to him in fear but that did not cool him down. He was getting more and more angry as he was unable to determine the reply he was supposed to give to the mayor about the disappearance of her daughter. He landed another slap on her face and that was the last drop of Lilian. She rushed forward and grabbed the hand on her father. “You! Caused her to run away!” she screamed. The tears were coming off her face as the fear of her father and the misery they were in was mixed. The surprise in his eyes was worth seeing indeed. This was the first time Lilian was rebelling. When he managed to got over his shock he grabbed her by the neck and slammed her to the wall. “Well then little girl… If you are so proud of your sister running away, maybe you are ready to pay her debt… “ His eyes were locked to her daughter but he talked to his wife. “Get ready my dear, when our elder daughter is back, we will have a double wedding. Lillian is marrying the Mayor.” a disgusting smile curled his lips against the fear in Lillian's eyes. He released the girl to fall back on the floor and left the room leaving two crying women.

James had been in and out of Lilura's room during the past day. Her body was obviously struggling to recover but it seemed that her mind was also in turmoil. She was thrashing around, asking someone to stop. What had her life been like before she arrived here? And, was it going to be worth the trouble keeping her around? Still, she was here. And there was something about her that still intrigued him. Even if she was impetuous, rude, and a little out of touch regarding money. She needed the money, obviously, so there was no harm in keeping her around a little longer. Maria was in the room when she woke up, she scurried out to fetch water from the kitchen. "Mr. James, Mr. James. She's awake now. She is better." James put down the documents and maps that he'd been pouring over and walked over to her room. He wasn't sure what 'awkae' would look like for her. How much blood she had lost, it would take time to fully recover. Putting on a charming smile, he walks into the room. "Well, well. Someone's lucky to be alive. They don't have rattlers over in your neck of the woods?"

She was literally feeling drunk and she thought it was the wine as she was not aware of the morphine she was given. The joyous sound of James made her face purse for a moment as her head was killing her. Her eyes slowly opened and looked around where the heck was she and why was she lucky that she was alive. "Were you hoping for me to die?" she asked, her voice cracked. "A bottle of wine is not easy to kill me" she murmured and reached for the water when the woman brought her water. That was good. The cool liquid made her better surely. She forced herself to give a kind smile to the woman. "Thank you Lady." Her gaze turned once more to James and a smile curled her lips. People used to call her Rattler because of her sharp tongue behind her back. "They had me back there instead..." she said but how did you know that?" she asked confused. She was not even recalling going out of her room. All she remembered was the wine she was enjoying in her room.

James chuckled to himself at Lilura's ramblings as she regained consciousness. She was kind of a mess. And, from what she'd said while she wasn't fully aware of herself, it sounds like the situation she left was a mess too. He would have to pry into that a little more, hopefully without raising her defenses again. "Wait, are you saying they used to call you 'rattler'? That actually makes sense..." Yes, definitely going to have to pry into this later. This girl has more under the surface than he'd realized. But wait, what was the other thing she said? About wine? "A bottle of wine? Do you know remember that night? You stumbled into the yard and were bitten by a rattlesnake. You might have died that night except that Pablo was able to cut-off the blood flow to your leg." His eyes flash down to her legs then back up to her face. "You've been drugged up on morphine for the last two days. I'm surprised you aren't asking for more now." He needed to focus. She was alive, that was step one. She would likely need some time to recover but he needed to get her on a horse and out to the homesteaders. There was a cattle drive coming in and he wasn't sure he'd have enough land to hold them all until auction. Damn it, he needed at least one to sell before they arrived. This was going to be best chance to try a new approach. "Maybe some food will do you good. I'll have Maria send some up to you." An hour or so later, food and water is brought up. James stays and when the food arrives, some is brought for him as well. He stays to eat it with Lilura.

Lilura watched Jamed with shock in her eyes. "Did you give me morphine while I was already drunk??? " she growled. "Now I have no doubt that you are trying to kill me Sir." she muttered closing her eyes trying to calm her self down. This was close... So close. Sometimes she was really considering going back home but her father would kill her. So this way she at least had a chance to live. She remained silent as James ordered food for her. He was watching her and she did not hesitate to watch him back, boldly. Why was he giving her that much attention? She, for a short moment, considered the option that he could know her father. That would indeed be scary. When the maid brought her food along with his, she smirked. "I see that you can't eat your meals without me any more..." she teased without looking at him and starting to eat immediately.

The next few days pass without much issue. James continues to eat meals in Lilura's room, both watching her recover and trying to find out more about what motivates her. I know you can solve my problem, if I can just get you out on the range and in front of the homesteaders. I give you the lay of the land, try to gauge your interest, determine how much your greed will get you to overlook things. But, as James gets to know her during these days, he becomes impressed by some of the things he learns. She also finds out a few things about James. He's been living in this town his whole life, been around cattle but never been a cowboy, and has ambitions for expansion. He likes to ride horses and funded the brewer that has a still, trying out new recipes for alcohol.

Lilura was feeling comfortable with him as the days passed. He had never missed a meal no matter she was sick in bed. She had not seen this kind of affection even from her parents. She always thought life in small towns were boring. That was why she wanted to go to big city but no day was dull with James. His projects were also exciting her. She even considered to buy a vinyard after she heard about his brewing project. Her eyes got cloudy as she recalled the danger chasing her. She was sure her father spread his men to find her already and no matter this place was not the first one they would look for her, sooner or later they were gonna show up. Her gaze raised to his from her meal on her lap... "You have been so nice to me... " she said. "And in return I would like to have no payment for my service. " she paused a moment trying to choose her words carefully. She did not want to scare him. "I think though as I will be out there alone, I need to learn to protect myself..." she cleared her throat and finally took out what was really in her mind. "Would you teach me to use a gun?" At least that way she could have a chance against her enemies...

James was getting more comfortable with having Lilura around. Her sharp tongue often speaking more harshly than she seems to intend. And yet, even though he's given her plenty of opportunity, she remains quiet about her past. And now she wants to learn how to shoot. Who is this girl and what is she running from. There's something to uncover here... but how.

"You want to learn how to shoot? And you think that having a gun and a few days instruction is going to keep you safe?" I'm sending her out to people who'd rather run halfway across the country than face their problems. They're not going to confront her, certainly not going to threaten her. In fact, being non-threatening was the reason I want to send her out. "Maybe you will understand better if I show you how to shoot. Alright, tomorrow, I will take you out, we have a shooting range a few miles from here. It won't disturb the dogs or cooks. I'll have them pack us something for supper, we'll likely be gone all day." James stands up, his mind already working through preparations, Lilura doesn't have any blue jeans yet. The little escapade in the yard set that behind schedule. But he should be able to scrounge something up. And he needs to get a couple of guns. He plans to start her with something heavy, something with a kick to it. That ought make her pause and have second thoughts about carrying her own gun. If an object lesson is what it takes, then he can set that up. "We will leave after breakfast. Are you well enough to ride now?"

MEANWHILE BACK AT LILURA'S HOME Killian was watching the map laid on the table. Other four were already gone looking around to find her but Killian knew Lil was way smarter than any of them. "Where are you?" he whispered as his eyes trailed over the map. He circled big Cities around them. She was gonna go one of them but how? She did not take any horses from home. She had to use the train or maybe a wagon. He already had a drawing of her and now he was gonna start to look from the train stations. He gathered the map and turned to face Lilian watching him at the door. The disappointment in her eyes were clear. "You want to marry her..." she said. Killian was well aware of her interest in him but he never felt anything for her. "No. All I want is to bring her back to her home safely Lady Lilian." he said and walked passing her to get out. "He is gonna marry me with Mayor." she said hoping to get a reaction. Killian just paused a moment. Mayor was not the best candidate for Lilian for sure but any men was better than her father. "I am happy for you Lady Lilian." he said and attempted to walk bu Lillian grabbed his arm. "Please get me out of here? I dont want to marry him!" she said still having hope to have his attention. Killian's cold gaze turned to meet her and then moved to the hand holding his arm. Lillian released his arm embarrassed. There was nothing to say to her. It was a clear no. "I can help you to find her if you take me with you." were the words that stopped Killian. He considered her words for a moment. "I will let you know" he said and walked towards the train station to see if he could find himself something or was he gonna need Lillian.

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LILURA "I know I can not be the best shot in a couple days, but I can practice! I am a hard worker and I can do good!" she started to talk to convince him but she immediately shut up when she saw that he was already convinced. That was too easy but why? "I am feeling better every day. I am sure I can ride a horse." she said smiling brightly. "Am I gonna use a colt or a rifle?" she asked excited. She always wanted to learn how to use it but her father never allowed her. She was gonna grow up like a Lady. It was cooking or sewing that she needed to learn. Not shooting. "Mr James?" she said when he was getting ready to move out. "Thank you. I will not fail you I promise..." she said keeping that bright smile on her face. "Do you mind telling your crew to give me some clothes for our day out?"

James walks out of the room, shaking his head. She thinks we're going on a picnic. This girl really has no understanding what real life is like. It's almost unfair to put her into the position he's planning. Using her as a pawn in his scheme. Well, I guess if she's going to find out the harsh realities of life... there are worse ways to be exposed. He walks downstairs, looking for Maria. She was closest in size to Lilura. Hopefully she had something she can share. "Maria. Maria. Donde estas?" He pokes his head into a couple of the rooms, finally finding her folding laundry downstairs. There's a whole array of clothes laid out around the room that she's in. Some still hanging out to dry, others stacked and folded, some still dirty in one corner. What to choose... what to choose... He's never had to do this before. The natural choice would be a dress but that's definitely not suitable. What else did women wear? He walked into the room, Maria nodding hello and greeting him. She asks him what he needs. She continues to sort and fold the clothes in the room. "I need something for a woman, about your size, to ride in. What... what does a woman wear when on a horse?" Maria continues folding for a minute. She thinks about what he's asked, trying to make sure she understood it correctly. Then she walks over to a stack of clothes, picking up a long-sleeved cotton shirt. It has a line of flowers across the chest and shoulders. The sleeves are slightly puffed, giving it some volume. "I think this one, Mr. Whitmore. It keeps off the bugs, but no get too hot." She drapes it over her arm and continues around the room.

She paws through a stack of men's trousers and blue jeans but shakes her head at all of them. "No, this is never fit a small girl like her." She walks over to another pile, rough-spun skirts that are made of thick fabric and cut long. "She will wear this. Use a long cloth between her legs to make it like pants, you understand? Then big boots to cover her legs. She will ride like that." He nods acceptance, not sure what else he could say. Tells Maria to take the outfit up to Lilura and find her a suitable pair of boots. Then he heads out to the hunting shed, it's time to choose the guns. "A colt or a rifle, she says. Ha! I'd like to give her a double-barreled shotgun and watch it knock her halfway back to the house with it's recoil." He mutters to himself as he walks across the yard. "Well, a Colt revolver is a fine weapon, a heavy weapon, one that will make your arm sore to hold it up aiming and your wrist feel like it's shattering after a few shots. "But the rifle... can't use a .22 there's not enough power in that to turn a baby off shooting. Maybe one of the long guns with the larger slugs. Hard to keep those steady enough to aim without building a rest for it." He chuckles, imagining Lilura with the rifle in her hands, the long barrel of the gun jerking wildly around as he tries to balance its weight. Maybe tomorrow will be fun afterall. Finally, he makes his way back to the kitchen, requesting a hearty breakfast for the morning. He provides a list of cooked food for lunch, cold food for dinner, and emergency rations that will keep should they get stuck overnight. It always pays to be prepared when going out onto the plains, even if you're not going too far. With all these preparations done, he walks back up to his room. Looking over the map of the homesteads again until sleep overwhelms him and he crawls into his bed.

Lilura requested to have a bath that night. She was excited that she was gonna go out after being in bed for days and also that she was gonna learn how to use a gun. She was very good at with slingshot when she was younger. All the boys were scared of her and she was sure she was gonna learn to use a gun pretty quick. Of course she was not aware of the evil plans of James. Once she was back in her room the outfits that he chose for her was over her bed. She slowly closed the door and locked it like every night she did. When she was back to the bed she wondered what would her life would be like if she did not run away. Probably she would be in the bed of Mayor right now. She gagged with the thought and hugged her pillow. James was a nice man but still there was something bothering her about him. Her gut feeling was telling her a huge no no like she had a second option. She had to survive and James was her only way out. She drifted into sleep while her mind was not stopping it. Next morning she woke up very early as she was so excited for the day. She woke the outfit he chose for her. It was pretty decent. Boots were a little tight but she had no intention to complain and cause him to cancel the trip. She wondered if they were gonna go with one horse or two? But probably it was two as he asked her if she could ride. She was still a little dizzy but yes she could surely ride. She knew it was still early but still she left her room and headed to the garden to wait for James to wake up and be ready.

James wasn't an early riser. It's not that he was slothful, he just liked to stay in bed until breakfast was ready. The downstairs was always bustling and busy in the morning as the help got prepared for the day. They knew to bring a pot of coffee up to his room and set it on the table near the door, then leave him be until he came out. This morning, he stood by the window, sipping his coffee and looking out across the yard. He can see Lilura wandering the garden. Hopefully not stirring up any more snakes. That girl... so headstrong and yet naive. She was quite attractive, and it seemed as though she knew it. But she wasn't using her charms to try and influence him. Almost the opposite, she seemed to enjoy trying to antagonize him. Maybe that's a clue to where she's from. Sheltered but in a home that was ruled by fear. Obviously prominent in her community but seeming to rebel against authority every chance she got. Well, maybe he could probe a little more when they were alone. James walked down the stairs, carrying a rucksack with things they would need. There was an extra pack horse carrying most of the gear they needed. It never hurt to be prepared. He handed the bag off to one of the servants and walked over towards Lilura. "Well, you're up early. You must be quite eager to get going. Did you eat some breakfast?" After finding out, he directs her to mount the smaller horse, already saddled and ready for her. James mounts the larger horse, the lead for the pack horse tied to the back of his saddle. He clicked his tongue and started walking out of the yard. The land is flat and open. Small scrub and twisted, stubby cedars dot the landscape. Not providing any shade but breaking up the landscape a little. The sun overhead is bright and hot, it feels like it's sucking water from your body. James drinks frequently from his canteen. After about a mile, he turns to Lilura. "So you've never shot a gun before? So what do you know how to do? Tell me a little abou

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t how you were raised."

Lilura was sitting over a rock watching the servants getting ready. That was quite a preparation for a simple day out. She did not know what to think really. Were they not coming home anytime soon? She looked up when Maria brought her some cheese and tomatoes in a half loaf of bread. Lil smiled and took it gratefully. "Gracias" she said smiling warmly and started to eat her breakfast. When James came out it was already in her stomach. She rushed to her feed and dusted off her skirt. She placed a warm smile to her face and walked closer to him. "Yes! Already eaten!" she said excited and leaned closer lowering also her tone..."I am wondering though. Are we going far away that we can not make it back tonight?" she said her gaze locked on the preparations. She frowned when she was shown a smaller house. She could ride a stronger one. James's horse was a gorgeous, strong stallion and she was given a tiny mare. She pulled herself up on it and did not bother to sit aside like a lady but monted the horse like a man. Her tights tightened as she clicked her tongue to move the beast rolling her eyes to James. James were pulling another horse that was carrying every other thing and he finally broke the silence. Her mind went to her memories of Killian trying to teach her how to aim. It was actually going pretty good if they were not busted by her father. Killian was badly beaten and so did Lil. But compared to him it was nothing. "No I did not." she lied and a wide smile appeared on her face. "I was raised pretty challenging..." she said and tightened her thighs once more pacing up her horse. "Lets see if you can catch me..." she yelled back as she was already ahead of him. Yes his stallion was strong but he had to still control the other beast. She had quite a chance.

James watched as she took off on her small mare. He'd expected her to try something on this trip but not so quickly. Fortunately, he'd brought the packhorse that he'd used a hundred times on this trip, it knew the way by itself. Turning around and quickly untying the knot that kept them connected, he whistled to the horse to keep it moving, then turned and looked at the retreating figure of Lilura. He kicked his spurs into his stallions flanks and the horse immediately jumped into action. It had been waiting to move after seeing Lilura and her horse start running. It was a strong horse, with a strong spirit. He watched Lilura riding, getting a sense of how she handled herself in the saddle. She seemed to be well connected with the animal, knowing how to nudge it and when to rise in her stirrups, when to pull on the reins and when to give it room to run. What she didn't know, however, was the terrain. She was veering towards a rocky patch that was either going to slow her down or risk getting thrown if she pushed her mare too hard. James leaned the other way, directing his horse towards a flat, packed area that would let him make up some of the distance. Between the strength of his horse and the ground he was on, he could see himself closing the gap. He was getting close. "That was a nice try," he shouted over the wind blowing in his face. He laughed at the feeling of the wind blowing past him, the ground pounding beneath him, the sky open above him. This was not a bad place to be, not a bad place to live. "But you've made a mistake, Lilura. You're running into rocks, slow down or your horse is going to fall. And you can be sure I'll take the cost of that out of your payment." James continues to surge forward, attempting to get ahead and cut her off to force her to slow down if she's too stubborn to do it on her own.

Lilura smiled playfully when James managed to catch up. She would not expect anything less from him and she was well aware that she did not have much chance with the mae she was riding against his beast. Her gaze turned forward when he made the warning about the terrain. She could see the rocks further away. There was no need to push her luck while the result was clear and to risk the horse and herself. "I see that you are scared to race me!" she told him back and pulled the reins to slow down the beast. Her whole body tightened as the beast did not answer her command. She pulled them again harder tightening her thighs but it was useless. "James!" she said. The fear was very clear on her tone. "She does not stop!" she said grabbing the mane of the beast by fear. She felt it was safer to grab there but that moment she could not balance she small whip at her hand and hit the beast and no matter soft it only made her faster. Hell she could race the stallion like that but she was riding both of them to death. James was trying to move forward to slow the beast down and the rising pace of it did not help. "HELP!" she screamed and kept fighting with the reins to stop the beast. Maybe this was the end for her...

James spurred his horse again, cutting even sharper towards the rocky ground that Lilura was heading towards. He needed to try to get in front of her horse before it took them both down. But as he drew closer, he could see the whites of the mare's eyes, they were wild and panicked. He would have to collide with the horse if he wanted to make it stop... and that could be disastrous for both of them. He shifted the reins into one hand, keeping a firm grip on them and squeezing the stallion tightly with his legs. He wasn't trying to get ahead of the horse anymore, he needed to get beside it. With another kick of the spurs, his stallion surged ahead coming up parallel with Lilura. "You're going to have to jump," he shouted, reaching out his hand and trying to catch hers. "I'll catch you if I can but staying on that horse is a death sentence." He knew that Lilura only had a few seconds to make up her mind.

Lilura was still trying to stay on the crazy beast and also trying to stop her. James, once more, was not letting her alone and he was doing his best to stop the scared animal. When he told her to jump her eyes wide open. Okay she was not a princess type but still... Riding a horse was something, jumping from it while he was galloping was another. What if he could not catch her? The hesitation in her eyes was clear when she turned to look at him with his offer but then her eyes turned forward to their destination. The rocks were close and the beast was determined to kill them both. She slowly raised on the stirrup and reached for his free hand. He could catch her or she was gonna die but if she did not jump the death was certain. She closed her eyes and gathered all her courage to jump towards him hoping he would manage to hold her.

This was cutting it close but he can see the determination in her eyes as she prepares to jump. His hand was already nearly grasping hers, and as she leaps from the stirrups, he tries to slip his arm under hers, wrapping it around her body to give himself the most leverage possible. It doesn't quite go as planned and instead he ends up with his elbow hooked around her shoulder, but it will have to do. He pulls her all the way off her horse then tugs hard on the reins with his other hand. The stallion immediately tries to stop, rearing up onto his hind legs. Lilura's weight is too much to hold in this awkward position, James kicks his feet free of his stirrups and falls from his horse as well. The two of them roll away, their fall broken by thick prairie grass, fortunate that they had not yet reached the rocks. Bits of soil flew as they rolled, flattening the grass for a few yards until finally they stop. James ending up on top of her, one arm still tangled with hers, now wrapped around her back. His other arm held protectively over her head. The weight of his body pressing into her. He is breathing hard, looking between her face and the horses, trying to make sure neither of them will be trampled. In the distance there is a loud whinny, followed by a crash, and then an obvious cry of pain. Lilura's horse has hit a rock and been injured. From where he's at, James can just barely see the mare trying to stand and then collapsing back to the ground. He focuses his attention back down to Lilura who is beneath him. "Are you alright? Anything broken?"

She was sure that he would catch her. He always did till now when she fell. When his tight grip failed though, she thought her heart was gonna stop. She survived her father, she survived the train, the snake and her life was gonna end now here! because of a crazy little mare. She could feel him sliding down from the horse with him. Thanks to him it was not a hard hit but him falling over her did not help. Rolling on the floor with the strength of the fall rolled them of the path. She was scared to death and once they stopped, she arched her back in pain feeling his weight over her. Was she alive? Were they alive? The painful sound of the horse echoed in distance. Her eyes were still closed when he asked her if she was okay. The tears were sliding off her eyes when she slowly opened them to look up at him... "Are you gonna shoot her?" she asked. She surely was not dead, she was not sure if she was injured of anything as she was not feeling anything right now by the adrenaline but she was worried for the horse she pushed to gallop. "I am sorry..." she whispered laying under him. Her hand moved to wipe her tears off her fave with her sleeve, her palm was covered with blood. Was that her or him? She first checked her hand and then to the point where it was laying. He was bleeding!

James stares down at her hand covered in blood, puzzled. Where was that coming from? He braces himself on one arm, trying to remove the other that's tangled around Lilura. He can feel his blood pulsing as the adrenaline starts to wear off. And he can feel pain... His arm doesn't move as he tries to pull it free. Something is wrong. He can feel it now, a sharp pain in his shoulder and in his forearm. Trying to get on his knees, he uses his good arm to roll Lilura the opposite direction of his trapped arm. Once she's away, he takes stock of the damage. His shoulder has been dislocated and his forearm is broken. The blood is coming from near the break where the skin has been torn by the bone trying to push out of it. God damn it. This was going to make things difficult. They were already more than halfway to their destination, with plenty of light left in the day to push onwards - even at a slower pace. If they tried to go back, it would be dark before they reached the house, and he did not want to try leading this circus back with no light. Only one choice then, they had to proceed. And that meant getting him fixed up and able to ride again. Time to see what Lilura was made of. "Lilura, my arm is broken. I'm going to need you to help me with a couple of things so we can keep going. I want to make it to the shooting range before dark. There's a shed there and a firepit, it will be better than staying here or trying to go back." "I need you to come push on my shoulder to get it reset into the socket. That can be done now. Then, after that, see where the pack horse is, it shouldn't be but a few minutes behind. It's slow but steady and knows the way. Once it arrives, there are bandages and a few sticks, I'll need you to make a split and sling for my arm." "Can you do that for me?" James rolls onto his back, trying to keep his breathing steady. Beyond him, the mare was still lying on her side, breathing heavy, painful whinnies coming from her. The stallion was wa

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lking back and forth, seemingly unsure about where to go or what to do now.

Lilura watched him with a visible fear in her eyes. She was trying to find out how badly he was injured. Her life depended on him one way or another and he saved her once more. She rolled off his arms and sat on the ground watching him. Her whole body was aching and she was sure her back was full of bruises but she did not care. When he managed to figure out the injury she turned her faze to him in fear. She was still in shock. "Reset your arm?" She gasped "I am not a doctor." She rushed to her feet pacing up and down. "I .. I can hurt you more by trying to help!" She looked back to his arms "Too much blood..." her voice was shivering. The sound of the mare in the background was not really helping but all of a sudden she stopped closing her eyes like she was giving herself a break... She took a deep breath and walked back to him. She was calmer. "Tell me what I do." She said ready to do what was needed.

James tried to raise himself up to see if he could spot the pack horse. It was still too far away to see, so he dropped back to the ground. He was lying on his back still, staring up at the sky. He takes a deep breath then explains. "You're going to need to grab the arm below the armpit. Then with your other hand on the outside of the shoulder, push it up and into place. It's going to take a bit of pressure, so don't be shy about it. I might scream but do it anyway." He looks over to Lilura, gauging her face to see if she can handle it. She still has those delicate features that make him wonder if she can really handle life out here in the frontier. But, she's bold enough to have run away from home. There is more to her than she let's on.

She was giving him her full attention right now. In her mind was the time when she had a similar situation when she was young. She looked around and found a stick moving closer to him. She placed it in front of his mouth..."Bite this!" she was pretty demanding in her attitude. In her case she was lil girl in love with her doctor but things wanna be tougher on James's case. Lil was no one to him but his pita. She positioned herself next to his arms and kneeled next to him. Her one hand at his arm pit and the other was holding the upper arm as the forearm was broken. She was gonna need to deal with it later. She took a deep breath and looked at him. "Are you ready?" she asked..."When I say three... one... " and she did it. She could not wait for it really she wanted it all done and finished. The sounds that came from his arm was not pleasant, neither the ones coming off his mouth. She could swear that he did not say anything nice but thankfully she did not understand because of the stick. The arm was resetted and she was proud of herself. She raised her gaze and looked for the horse. She was next to the hurt mare. "You will need to wait for me to go and get the stuff. And I am not sure if you can ride like this. Dont you think its better if we go back to home?" she asked not sure of his pain level and more of all how strong he was.

James head was spinning. He must have lost some blood after the fall. Or maybe hit it while he tumbled across the ground with Lilura. It was hard to think straight. He tried to sit up then collapsed back onto the ground. Go back? Go back to the ranch... it would be dark... would Lilura know how to get back in the dark? Hadn't she stepped on a snake not ten feet from the house? No use letting her lead them through the plains at night. Who knows what might happen. James turns his head, still lying on the ground. He's looking for the pack horse. Yes, there it is, it's closer than he expected. Still plodding along, stopping to eat grass, then moving forward again. Why hasn't Lilura brought it over yet? Where was she? He turns to the other side. She's still there, crouching beside him in the position she was in when resetting his arm. There should have been a splint on his arm... but instead there was one in his mouth? He spits out the stick. "Go back? No, too dark. Close to range... a shed... make camp there. I'll be fine in the horse... horse's saddle." He attempts to get up again, this time, reaching out and trying to hold on to Lilura for support. But he has to bring his opposite arm across to reach her, and doing that makes him lose his balance. He topples again, this time pulling Lilura with him so that she ends up lying on top of him. He stares up into her face, into her eyes. A smile twitches across his face. He sighs and relaxes, ready to just stay like this until he regains his senses.

Lilura watching the man as he did not make as much noise as she guessed. She thought he would be screaming but maybe the stick helped. Though he was not looking very clear in mind right now. He tried to sit up and started to watch around, thoughtfully but also kind of empty. Lil was starting to get worried as she had no idea where were they or how would she go back to home if he had lost his mind. Se cleared her throat and smiled kindly. "Are you okay Mr James?" she asked with her sweetest tone. She reached out and held his hand when he wanted to get up. "Saddle... okay..." she said hoping he could ride. But all of a sudden he lost his balance and no matter how hard she tired to hold, she also lost her balance and fell over him. Lilura looked back down to the man who was laying under him. Unlike him, she was worried as he was already hurt and that was fully reflecting to her eyes. His smiled, though, confused her. Why was he even smiling? Was he high or what? "You are scaring me..." she said her eyes almost filling with tears. "Please tell me you are okay"

James gritted his teeth, his senses coming back to him as the pain receded somewhat. He shakes his head, trying to clear it. Finally looking up at Lilura. She's still sitting here on the ground... close to him... but that's not what he needed right now. He can feel the blood pumping through this body, bleeding out his arm, pounding into his head. "Go get the damn horse! We need the supplies. If he wanders off, we're trapped here. Do you understand that?" He rolls onto his side again. Grunting as he does so. He stays there for a minute, making sure he can do this. Feeling confident, he pushes himself up to his feet. He holds his arms out, making sure he's steady. Closing his eyes then opening them again. He looks over at his stallion, gauging to see if he could make his way over to it. He whistles. "Hey, get over here. Git!" The horse starts to prance a little, stepping back and forth between the injured mare and James. Finally after a minute, it starts moving towards him. James catches the reins when it gets close enough, pulling the horse closer and leaning on it with a sigh. He looks over to Lilura to see if she's getting the pack horse. "Get that horse! We're going to need it, I told you." This was a disaster. And it was even worse that they had to go on to the shooting range to make camp. It wasn't a great option but it was the only option that would get them a place to sleep before dark. This was turning out to be a mess of a day. And every day that slipped by was going to make things harder if the cattle came in... James tried to climb into the saddle, using his good arm to hold onto the pommel. He got himself halfway up, then nearly lost his balance. He held himself there for a moment, gritting his teeth and tightening his grip, then swinging his leg up and over. He collapsed forward onto the neck of the horse, grateful that he was mounted. "Bring the packhorse over here, tie it on the back and climb on. We need to get moving."

Lil slowly scootes and sat on her knees next to him watchimg gain back his senses. She was still trying to measure if he had hit his head and if he was okay. He clearly was in pain and that was alone bad enough. When she heard his command she rushed to her feet. That was all her fault. She just wanted to be playful bit ended pretty bad. She slowly approached to the beast and grabbed her halter dragging it towards his horse. She tried to help him to get over his horse but she did not. He was not in his best mood and she really could not dare. She handed the leash to him once he was on the horse and she climbed back to him and placed her hands carefully to his sides not sure how to hold on to him. Her hands slowly slid to the front hugging him if he did not protest, her whole body leaned into his. He could easily feel her breath on the back of his neck.

James felt Lilura tentatively take hold of him. He grimaced again, getting ready to tell her to get a better grip so she wouldn't fall out of the saddle. Then her arms slide all the way around him, her body leaning against his, her breath on his neck. His breath catches and his anger starts to melt away. God, she was barely more than a child. Obviously run away from home, trying to be independent and strong, but still prone to foolishness and pranks. And now, she just needed to feel safe. Probably what she desired most, he would guess, depending on what she was running from. And he still needed her. Time was going to run out, if the cattle got here before he had land to hold them, he was going to be in a world of trouble. Those cows would need to be sold fast, before anyone could ask too many questions. He had the buyers lined up, men from the meat packing plants in the city that didn't care where their stock came from, as long as they could get it consistently. He lowered his bandaged arm, his hand covering hers as she held onto him. His other hand holding the reins and pack horse lead loosely. His horse knew the way, best to let him have at it rather than trying to concentrate on picking the path. If he squinted, he thought he could see it out a ways. Maybe another hour or so of riding... maybe two. James didn't turn his head, he didn't want to risk slipping or disturbing anything. "Lilura, I know you didn't mean to hurt your horse. I'm sure you're used to running on more even ground when riding. I won't make you pay me back for her." It was no small concession and he hoped that she recognized the value of what he was offering. Hoped that it would make her more agreeable to what he wanted from her. They rode in silence for a spell. The grass brushing against their legs as it swayed in the wind. The soft nickering of the horses as they continued on their way. The sun, slowly sinking towards the horizon, marking the time they had left to make camp. When the s

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un was about halfway set, a small shack, a well pump, and a tethering post came into focus. About one hundred yards away was a low ridge of dirt that looked like it had been dug up and placed there. There were tin cans and assorted knick-knacks scattered around it, all of them with bullet holes. James let Lilura climb off the horse, then accepted help to get down without jostling his arm too much. He stepped over and opened the shack's door. It was a small space, a little brick cooking area towards the back, a small room with guns and ammunition stores to one side, and a little room with two narrow beds on either side. There were no doors inside the shack, everything was open. James walked into the bedroom and cursed. "Looks like something got into the cabin and made a mess." He pointed to one of the beds, blankets that had been chewed on and ripped, and whatever it was had been large enough to crush the frame, the bed was askew with one leg broken and another badly cracked. James looked over at Lilura, then down at his arm, then over to the one remaining bed intact. "Well shit,' he said, "Let's get a fire started and we'll sort the rest out after we've eaten."

The hand slid over her tensed her a little. She did not want to give the wrong impression to the man but she was not able to hold herself back too much also. She was already getting tired being all alone out at the feast of wolves and he was there to hold her hand no matter what so far. He had his arm broken for her. When he spoke she nodded but did not reply to him. Her voice would tremble. The crying sound of the wound horse was still echoing in her ears. She hated it. She hated to cause all those mess. She turned her head and leaned to his back slowly as they rode in silence. She was grateful. Once they arrived she slid down from the horse and helped him down. She was greatly avoiding to meet his eyes. Yes, she was ashamed of what she did and what she was planning to. No matter what she was feeling about James since the begging, all the wrong vibrations she was taking, he was nothing but nice to her. He took care of her more than her father. Her father... Whom probably was fully after her now. If he had found her he would drag her back to marry that idiot. She had to be safe from it and for that she had to convince James to marry her but on the other hand she had to make sure that was not a real marriage. He was, no matter very good looking, was still older than her and she was sure he would not be interested in her other than using her for his pleasures till he was bored. She followed him to shack and frowned when she saw the situation inside. She did not care much though as she was happy that James was in his right mind and his head was safe. She was sure she had seen some broken woods outside. She just hoped they were dry. She came back in with the woods and placed them in the fireplace. "I think I can handle this." she said and grabbed a piece of paper and used the match to start the fire. She blew a little and there... the woods were burning.

6:45 AM

She could organize a whole bunch of feast with the right maids but alone in nowhere? That could be some problem. She walked out and checked the horse to take the food and bring that in. Thank God he ordered his people to get some food ready. First she served him the food and then looked at him wondering if he could eat all alone. "Do you need me to help you?" she asked sincerely.

James tried to do some things around the cabin, moving things and setting up this or that, but soon he feels light-headed from the blood he's lost and has to sit down. He sits on the one good bed, trying to watch Lilura through the door but mainly getting glimpses of her as she passes back and forth. Well, this was different. Here was woman who knew her way around making a fire, unpacking the horse, and even cooking without all the normal kitchen implements she must have had - and without the help she surely had as well. Maybe she wasn't as helpless as he'd thought. He walked out to the small table in the main room when he could smell the food was ready. It was simple but wasn't burned and actually looked quite edible. James pauses as Lilura asks him if he needs help eating. His pride rising again he nearly dismisses her immediately. But of course it was his right arm that was broken, his dominant arm. Eating with his left hand was going to be awkward at best and leave him wasting food at worst. He hated this, needing someone else. His life had been the constant struggle to prove that he was his own man, not merely a shadow of his father. But here, there was no one else to see, no one else to know. Through gritted teeth, though trying not to let the annoyance come into his voice, he says, "Yes, I will need some help Lilura. And... since we're already on the topic, I'm going to need you to clean the wound on my arm too. It's set but I'd rather not get an infection. That can wait until after dinner though, I'm famished and need something to give me strength for tomorrow."

Lilura watched the doubt on his face when she asked to help him. She was already feeling bad about what has happened and this added over it. She slowly sat next to him and raised the sandwich she made to his lips. "Well after the shoulder... Cleaning a wound is nothing..." she muttered. She needed him to be okay. She needed him to be strong as he was the only thing that was keeping her safe an alive lately. If it was not him maybe she was prostituting in the saloon right now or dead bitten by a snake. Now it was her turn to keep him safe and strong. She raised the plate holding it under his chin as he bit. Thankfully the food was almost ready. All she needed to do was to put them together. While he was chewing, she reached and bit her own sandwich and lowered her eyes when she caught him looking at her. She was feeling awful for what had happened. She helped him through his food cleaning his mouth even here and there when the sauce remained around his mouth. Once they were both done eating, she took the empty kitchenware to table and took a bowl filling it with water. She walked back to his side ready to clean his wound and there was some whiskey she found under her arm. She sat next to him still avoiding the eye contact. "May I have your arm?" she said kindly reached to have his arm. She started to take off the bandage carefully and sank the cloth she had in the water before she started to clean his arm. She was sure it was hurting as hell so she was trying to be careful as possible.

James eats every last bite of the sandwich, eyeing any remaining bits of Lilura's as well. He's hungry and wants to make sure he goes to sleep with a full stomach. When dinner is over she begins to gently remove the bandages. James sits still, both trying to keep his arm from moving and causing more pain, and to brace himself for how it feels when she touches him again. As the warm water touches his skin, he flinches slightly but then relaxes again. Cleaning the wound will help it heal more quickly, and she's doing a good job of getting out the dried blood and dirt. James looks over at her while she cleans the arm. Feeling her hand under his arm to hold it. The cloth wiping gently, getting rid of all the grime. He smiles at her. Then blinks and shakes his head. "Hey, let me have a drink of that whiskey before you dump in on my arm. It's going to hurt something fierce, I want to dull that pain a bit."

Lilura was feeling his gaze on her and it was making her nervous. She paused for a moment when he asked to drink from the whiskey. To help the pain he needed to drink a lot and she was not sure if she wanted to spend the night with a drunk man alone in a hut. Her eyes turned to the whiskey considering his request. That was her fault at the end of the day. While her hesitation was obvious she slowly took the bottle opened and handed to him before going back to cleaning his arm. There was only one bad and under those circumstances he was sure that she was gonna give the bed to him but he was wrong. He could not sleep in a bed as it was risky for him to tun and hurt his arm. So she was determined to make him sleep on a couch. "I have a plan about the lands." she started to talk. "You said those people do not want to sell their lands to you. " she saaid and continued without waiting for approval. "I think I need to buy them for myself and then I will give them to you. So that I will not need to convince them to sell it to someone they dont like but to a woman who is planning to rebel against you. I think they would enjoy the idea and sell the lands to me." she said. Her eyes were still on the wound though.

James took one drink straight from the bottle and handed it back to Lilura. The whiskey was strong going down and hot in his throat and stomach. He winced a little but knew it would hit him soon enough. That was all he needed to take the edge off. He didn't want to be dealing with a hangover tomorrow. He was going to have to have her tighten the arm in the sling and tie it around his waist. Too much chance of hurting himself again if he didn't. And, with his arm broken, there was no way he was sleeping on the floor tonight. He hoped that Lilura wasn't so much of a princess that she couldn't handle one rough night. She might even be able to salvage a bit of that mattress for some padding. Best not to bring that up until she was done tending his arm though. He almost laughs as she starts to talk about her plan. But, seeing that she's keeping her eyes down, probably because she doesn't want to falter in this scheme by looking at him, he holds it in. Maybe it was better to play along for now... see what else she has up her sleeve. In a slightly groggy voice he responds, "Oh, you've been thinking about how to get your part of the job done. That's good initiative. I like a woman who can think. More than just another skirt, as they say. I'll bet they'd fall for it. Those homesteaders are always looking for one more way to screw me over. One more way they can just prove to themselves that no one will get something from them. God, it makes me sick that they were just given everything and can't even think about someone else for one minute." James' rant is picking up steam. But he feels like he might be going too far with it now. Time to rein it back in, he doesn't want to overdo it. "But, if they thought they were getting a payday and sticking me with another nusiance, they just might go for it. You're a clever girl, Lilura. I'll give you that."

She watched him for a short moment while he drank the whiskey and finally she took it back and placed it to her side. She was sneaking up a gaze and checking him up from time to time while she told him her plans. She wanted to see his mimics yet she was also feeling bad for the game she was playing. "Yes it has been so long that you have been taking care of me. I should get back to work when we are back to pay back your kindness. " she said her heart sizzling. He surely did nothing to deserve this other than crossing paths with Lilura. She was not only forcing his hand for something he did not want but also risking his life once more in case her father found them. He could kill him. She hoped for the reverse though. A smile curled her lips when he complimented her. "I am just trying to help" she said and ruthlessly poured the whiskey on his arm trying not to enjoy it too much.

James grits his teeth as the whiskey hits his arm. There's the burn he knew was coming. And coming. Lilura was being awfully generous with that alcohol. It wasn't like he needed to bathe in it. "That's enough," he gasps. "I think you killed everything on my arm for a mile around." "Look, we'll have time to talk about your plan once we get back. I'll think about it but right now, we have some more immediate land use issues to resolve." He nods towards the room with the bed. It's the only place left to sleep in the small shack. There's hardly any other furniture except these chairs and a table that's nailed right into the wall. Someone's going to have a cold, hard night on the floor. "Now, it has not escaped your notice that there's only one bed left. And while I'm not trying to be an asshole, I am trying to recover. I'll need you to tie my arm into my side, so I don't roll on it, but then I'm going to have to insist that I sleep on the bed." "There's a bedroll on the pack horse, and what's left of the mattress in here, should make enough for you to sleep one night one. I'm sure you won't break after just one night, will you?"

Lil surely did not like the idea. Her gaze moved between the room and him for a short time. She could protest for sure but she did not as she was the reason of the current situation. She slowly raised of the couch and walked out to find the horse for the bedroll. She was not gonna argue with him. She was just gonna place it close to fire and sleep there and he could go back in the cold room and sleep on the bed. She was gonna sleep on floor if he had not taken her to his home anyways. It was not something she could not handle. She walked back in and placed the roll on the couch. "So how do you want me to bind your arm? I mean are you sure you will be able to sleep without rolling over it?" she asked. "I think we really should have gone back to the house. Yes it we would need to ride in the dark but we would sleep at home in our beds..." she paused for a moment noticing how she was seeing his home as hers. That was indeed a good sign considering her plans. Not that she was gonna settle, just till the danger was gone. She started to set her bed on the floor but all of a sudden she stopped and turned at him. "Why arent you married? Or why dont you even have a Lady to court? You are the Mayor, you could get any woman you wanted..." she said. She was wounded on the topic as the mayor of her own town picked her like he was picking an apple on the market. She just went back to her work not really waiting for him to reply. She was kind of venting out. "You don't need to reply to that..." she murmured finally finishing her soon to be bed.

James was already heading towards the small bed, thinking about how he would sleep tonight. Probably need a rolled blanket to keep him still. But otherwise, it should be fine. It was only one night after all... Lilura's question catches him completely by surprise. He nearly drops the bedding he's been adjusting. That is not something he expected her to ask about. Not really something he'd thought about. But what to tell her. There was some value in being an eligible bachelor on the frontier. Many families coming to the area were looking for stability, the chance to marry into a settled family like his was appealing, especially to those who had money to burn. He'd strung along a fair few before coming up with a reason the marriage couldn't happen. There was also the quiet competition between townsfolk to curry his favor, hoping he might take an interest in one of their daughters. The had enjoyed some delicious meals and been given some nice gifts because of that. Then, of course, there was the freedom of not being tied down to one woman. It made it easier for him to leave town when he needed to contact his associates. Setting up his current plan had taken more than a week of traveling on the trail. No place for a woman and no good having one waiting at home, ready to complain when he returned. But what to tell Lilura... "No, I'll reply. It's a personal question but not one that I'm ashamed to answer. I was engaged once, she was a beautiful girl. We were both so young but our families wanted to build ties. It was when Horizon was first being settled and she was from a more established town about twenty miles away." "We had met a few times. Maybe it's because we were young or because we saw the writing on the wall but we fell in love with each other." "Until... until one day we saw a great plume of smoke. Only to find out after an agonizing night and day that her village had been attacked by Indians. They had killed everyone and burned the town down to the grou

5:04 PM

nd." "My family was inconvenienced but I was heart-broken. I..." His voice falters from the other room, and he is glad that Lilura can't see him smile a little to himself at this amazing story. "I have never been able to give my heart to anyone again, though some have tried." He sits heavily on the bed, making sure to make noise while doing so. "I think I need to sleep now. Will you come secure my arm to my side. And put a rolled blanket under it so I cannot roll that way. Oh, and please make sure the horses are tied up."

Lilura watched him closely. He was surely startled by the question. She enjoyed catching him by surprise and honestly she was not expecting him to reply. When he said he would she left all she was doing and turned to him now watching him even closer. The dead love was not a story she was expecting. The more he told the story the more her heart sizzled. His back was to her but his voice was full of feelings, or at least that was what he made her think. She never loved someone so she never knew how it would feel. But the love in her mind was huge and losing that would be scary for her. She felt bad for the man along with the jealousy. She surely would want to be loved like that and on the other hand it was hurting her ego that he was implying that he would not feel anything for any woman. Lilura was NOT any woman. The jealousy growing inside raised her curiosity also. She walked closer and sat next to him starting to tie his arm to the position he wanted. "I am sorry to hear that." she said. "What was her name?" she asked. She was very curious about the mysterious lovable woman. "What did she look like?" she asked again and sat back next to him. "Tell me about her." she said with her sweetest tone. Her eyes were now raised. She was like a little girl fooled by candy. Fully interested in the romantic love story. She had 100s of questions in her mind.

Feeling Lilura come close gave James a twinge of guilt, but he also didn't want her to move away from him. When she wasn't fighting so hard to be tough, it was actually pleasant to have her around. Which means that he needs to think fast, it's not like he hasn't had relationships before. "She was tall like wheat in autumn, with golden hair, and eyes that could look right into your soul. She would just look at you, and you knew that you'd tell her anything she wanted to know... you remind me a little of that, actually." He shifts a little so Lil can wrap the bandage all the way around his torso, turning and scooting a little closer to her. "Her family was incredibly generous. They weren't founders of the town but had come in with investments that really helped it flourish. She spent so much of her time volunteering around town with anything that needed doing. When I would visit, I would usually end up waiting for her to get back from whatever she'd gotten caught up in." He was getting into a rhythm now, the story coming to life as he told it. In fact, he probably would have fallen for this woman. "She had the softest skin, when she would hold my hand, or touch my face, I was always surprised that they weren't more calloused because of how hard she worked. She once told me her secrets were good gloves and a lotion made of cream and honey. Whatever it was, it sure seemed to work." "I couldn't believe how lucky I was. Every time she kissed me," James looks over slyly to see Lilura's reaction, "I felt it all the way down to my toes. That kind of kiss is magical. I'm sure you know what I mean."

Lilura was already feeling so lonely considering her situation with her family. Growing up with an abusive father, running away from the luxuries she had, staying in the middle of street with nothing... Those were too much. And now, the man she was thinking has no heart was telling her the best love story ever she heard. Why would bad things happen to good people?! She wrapped the bandage around his body as she told the story but the words that he saw her in Lilura was the last drop. Her eyes started to fill. She was a good person too! or at least she was trying but life was not letting her! She did not want to fool James but what could she do? She had to survive and if her father was to find her, she was dead. She was started with the last comment and after that moment there was nothing to hold her back. She started to cry like there is no tomorrow. What was she crying for? For the dead girl? For the poor self? For fooling James? she did not know. Her sobs were echoing in the room while she was unable to calm herself down.

James had been trying to provoke a reaction from Lilura, maybe sympathy, maybe jealousy but he wasn’t expecting this. It seems that her defenses really were coming down. And now he had to do something. Of course, the arm near her was already tied down. It instinctively moved to put around her but was stuck. And trying to swap positions would be awkward as she was in no state to handle something even minorly complicated. James stands up. “Here, lie down Lilura. It will be alright.” He waits until she is stretched out in the small bed then sits next to her, in the middle of the bed, facing her head, so his good arm is close to her. He runs his hand soothingly across her hair and down her arm. He’s also a little awkward at doing it. This isn’t something he has much experience with. “It seems a struck a nerve. Do you have your own tale of lost love?” He continues to sit next to Lil as she cries. Looking down at this woman who seems to shift back and forth between fiercely independent and hopelessly lost. What could she be running from, he wonders. Maybe, unlike so many women out here, she decided to run rather than get trapped in an arranged marriage. For there was a kernel of truth in James’ story. His family had wanted him to marry a girl from a nearby town. But the negotiations had broken down before they’d even met. But since he was young, his imagination had developed a fantasy about her. She would have been beautiful and loving and passionate. She would have been perfect. He turns his attention back to Lilura. “Or have you never been kissed at all,” he murmurs almost to himself.

Lilura was emotionally broken after all she had been though. She was coming face to face with death constantly like the devils following her was not enough. She laid down to the bed but did not stretch herself instead she pulled her knees up to her belly turning to her side facing him. She almost caused the death of this man who was taking her from the hands of Azrael again and again and now his arm was broken because of her. His story touched her. Touched her deep in her heart. His hand moving through her locks and her arm was relaxing. She was getting her nerves back up but the last question struck her hard. How could he dare to consider that and even more voice it up. Of course she was never kissed. I would take balls to kiss the daughter of a man like her father. No man was that crazy for her to risk their lives. She slowly raised in the bed to sit up trying to calm herself down. Her sadness was replaced by anger. She slipped off the bed and her hand moved to slap him right on his face, if he would not stop her it would leave quite a burn when it landed.

James watched her as she sat up, noticed the change in her eyes. As she stood up, he noticed her hand pulling back. This wasn't the first time a woman had wanted to slap him. But he wasn't in the mood for it. As her hand came towards him, he caught her wrist with his good arm, twisting it away from her so that she had to follow it with her body. It made her twist, hunching over it and trying to keep the pain from going to her shoulder. James pulled her again, so she landed on the bed, on her back, arm still twisted and pinned down. "What is wrong with you! Christ, you need to get yourself under control. Why are you even trying to hit me?" His voice is raised, with confusion and anger. This woman that he was going to pin his hopes on, and he couldn't even tell what she was going to do from one minute to the next. He leans over her, looming in her field of vision. "Listen, this is a small cabin and I want to get some sleep tonight. If you're going to try to stab me in my sleep or something, then I'll toss you outside and you can sleep with the horses." It has been a long day. Too long for such an easy trip. James is tired, he's hurt, and his plans are quickly falling apart. He's not in the mood for this right now. "Well? Say something."

The anger was visible in her eyes. His words got to her really hard as she would take it an insult to be kissing someone in the corner without being married. That was how she was raised. She surely was not expecting the man grab and manhandle her like that before pinning her to the bed. Her chest was raising up and down as she was trying to calm herself down glaring right into his eyes boldly. "You promised not to touch me..." she almost snarled. "Get off me now!" she said not really happy with the position or maybe it would be more fair to say, uncomfortable. "And if you think a door will stop me when I want to stab you, you are so wrong!" she tried to give push to the man over her. She had never been that close to a man like that before and now being so close to a man who is as charming as him and being fuelled with her anger was not something easy for her to control. She closed her eyes and took a deep breath trying to calm herself down. Her voice softened but she did not open her eyes. "Please let me go..."

James was ready to fire back at her. Yell at her that she was the one trying to touch... to slap... him! But when she takes her breath, when he sees her sink into the bed, when she closes her eyes and speaks softly, his anger fades away. He sets her arm down across her stomach. "Lilura, I don't know what you've been through but not everyone is trying to hurt you." He sighs, knowing that he was trying to manipulate her, did want to use her to accomplish his own selfish goals. Maybe that would have ended up hurting her too in the end but not the way she's so obviously afraid of. And, she has a streak of cunning in her as well. The obvious ploy to get the lands in her name wasn't just to make it easier to gift them over to him. She had an angle, something she wanted to get out of it. Could she be trusted? Be brought into the plan? Or would she find it repulsive to the morals she seems to wave around like a club. But, now is not the right time for that. He would have to think about it. Instead, he lays the back of his hand gently against her cheek. Lightly, hopefully not enough to spook her. And as he does so, he says, "Not every touch is a defeat, Lilura. You seem so determined to fight the entire world alone. That's... a difficult thing to do."

Lilura relaxed visibly when he loosened his grip on her arm. Her eyes though were still closed. She was feeling pretty uncomfortable for them being that close. She laid under him listening to his words, still trying to gather her courage to face him opening her eyes. When she felt his fingers, caressing her cheek her whole body tensed. Not because she did not like it but because she would like it more than she should. She, for a very short moment leaned into his hand and that even scared her more to close her eyes even tighter like she was trying to shut down a nightmare.

James is watching her reaction closely. He sees her relax as he sets her hand down. Maybe this is going to work. She might be open to something other than a fight. His head is leaning down towards her as he moves to brush her cheek. But when her eyes tighten, he sighs inwardly. She’s like a little badger, ready to fight anything that comes but still so small in a big world. He straightens back up. And in a quiet voice says, “Stay there Lilura. You can keep your eyes closed and keep the world at bay. Sleep here, I’ll find a spot for myself. Won’t be the first time I’ve had solid earth beneath my back.” He stands and moves out of the little bedroom. Looking at the bedroll under the fire pit. It’s going to be a long night, and his arm is sure to hurt like hell tomorrow, but that’s better than making things worse with her.

She was very confused. She had never been touched by a man before and considering that, the feeling she was having was completely new. Was that James or would it be like that with anyone else? When he whispered she could feel his breath tickle her skin. Her heart leaped feeling him that close but no matter what he said, she did not open her eyes. The hand moving off her face was such a relief along with a regretful disappointment that she could not even admit to herself. She loved it. When his footsteps moved a little she opened her eyes and glared behind him. He was wounded but he was looking for a place to sleep to give her the bed. "James!" She said before he left the door. "I am not too big... I think we both can settle here?" She was even surprised with herself for asking that. Really lil? Are you gonna sleep with him? Her inner bish was talking. It was gonna be hell of a night.

James stops in his tracks. Frozen there for a moment. He slowly turns around, looking back at Lilura lying in the bed and looking at him, a surprised look at her own words. But there was something in her demeanor. She was opening herself up, even if she didn't know what she really wanted from him tonight. He takes a deep breath, turning around, and taking slow steps back towards her. Carefully he sits down on bed, putting his hand on her leg while still watching her face. He slides a little farther into the bed, moving his hand and using it to lower himself down. He can feel her shifting, making room for him. The bed was big enough for both of them, barely. She was lying still, almost stiff, but as he laid all the way down, their faces ended up being next to each other. James moved his a little closer, until she can feel his breath on her cheeck as he whispers, "Lil, I... I..." Then unable to find the words, he moves in closer and presses his lips to hers.

Lilura watched him moving closer and she slowly scooted towards the wall. Her heart was already drumming. What was she thinking when she asked her to sleep at her side. They were out of nowhere and yes she was scared to be alone here especially when his arm was broken. If any bandits were to show up they were vulnerable but would it help to sleep at his side? Her whole body tensed as he placed his hand on her leg and she moved a little bit more. She could feel the cold wall at her back while her face was on fire. Her eyes moved up to meet his when he addressed her. He was clearly trying to say something but ... she froze as his lips leaned into hers. He was so warm and so soft. She knew she needed to pull back but her body was once more failing her. Her lips parted as his tongue brushed her lips. She closed her eyes still not sure how to react while her lips were cooperating with his.

James feels her lips parting, accepting his, he pushes into even more, his tongue reaching into her mouth. His good arm slides behind her head, his fingers tangling in her hair. His chest expanding as he breathes her in. Was this really happening. He found her attractive and exciting with so much fire in her. But she had always been so quick to push him away. Well, it seems he was changing her mind about him now. He begins to pull away, sucking on her lower lip before finally separating. He continues looking at her, looking into her eyes and looking at her lips. His hand moves through her hair, running along her cheek, then down to her neck, his finger tips brushing along her collarbone. “Lilura, I want to stay here tonight too.”

She accepted him without any resistance she was still not fully kissing him back as she was confused. While she was wanting to kiss him back her mind was telling her no. This was wrong. She was with a stranger in the middle of nowhere and even worse on a bed, letting him kiss her. On the other hand he, the stranger, was the only reason she was still breathing. His hand tangled in her hair encouraging her to lean into him, melting into his kiss. When he finally broke the kiss she was panting. Her eyes were still closed. She trembled as his fingers explored her neck and she opened her eyes slowly looking into his before looking down to his lips. No that kiss was not enough but she could not dare to do what he did. "I..." She was still having a hard time time controlling her breath. "I did not call you back for this" she managed to say. She did not want him to think low of her as what she was doing was not ladylike. She moved a little closer to his lips but hesitated to lean her lips to his.

James hand slides behind her neck, then down her back, his arm pressed into the wall as she tries to stay up against it. He uses the leverage to roll himself closer to her, their bodies touching. The feel of his muscular chest against her breasts, his hips connected to hers, the thigh of his top leg resting in the crease of her thighs. He leans towards her lips that are still parted, still expecting something. When they're almost touching, he breathes, "Are you sure about that?"

She raises her eyes to him as he cornered her to the wall. The feeling of his leg between her legs was changed by her breathing again. She moved her hands to his chest not pushing but making sure she could if needed. Her heart was about to get out of her chest, the beat echoing in her ears. Her eyes closed once he moved closer to kiss his lips but left her lingering. She brushed her lips to his not sure how to reply to his question. Her voice would not let her say no so she just shook her head softly.

He can feel her heart beating faster in her chest. He can feel his doing so as well. He can feel blood rushing through his body. When her lips brush against his, he feels more than sees her shaking her head. In that moment, he catches her lips again in a kiss, his head turning to one side to kiss her deeply and thoroughly. The weight of his body pinning her to the bed, but providing a safe feeling as well, like nothing can get to her now. His hand slides to her lower back, playing at the hem of her pants and pulling her even closer to him. If she allows it, her legs part, wrapping around his as his knee bends and his leg presses up between hers.

This time she would not hold back but kiss him back with the same passion, letting his tongue in her mouth and welcoming it with hers. Her hands turned into fists on his chest as she was on the edge of pushing back but her body was not letting her. When she felt his knee between her legs a threatorous moan escaped her lips which scared her the moment and pressed to her hands to his chest not to push him fully as she was so enjoying his kiss but giving him the feeling that he was scaring her.

James hears the moan but also feels Lil's hands tighten into fists, he moves his leg back down, not wanting to send her back into her shell. She was kissing him back, that was a feeling he had not had in a long time. Someone who wanted to be there next to him, wanted him to stay. His hand slides up her back again, finally reaching the nape of her neck and holding there, his fingers playing with her hair. His tongue swirling around with hers as they push back and forth between each of their mouths. He doesn't want this kiss to end, he doesn't ever want it to end. But he needs to know how much she wants it. And it's going to hurt... he braces himself for it, tries to prepare mentally, but doesn't want to grit his teeth because that would mean ending the kiss. With a deep breath and a push of his shoulder and hips, he rolls himself over, taking Lil with him. He's lying on his back now, one arm pinned to his side, the other arm still holding Lil. She is on top of him now, their bodies stretched out and stacked like cordwood.

Lil relaxed when he moved his knee off between her legs. This, what was going on, was already too much for her. She was going way beyond her true self. He was kissing her, touching her and she was so enjoying to be in his arms. It was a very different feeling for her. Once he rolled, she found herself on top of him. She surely was more comfortable under him as she really did not know what to do. This was something she had no experience with. She hesitated a moment but did not break the kiss for a couple more minutes before she pulled back and laid on his chest. Clearly he was not comfortable with his arms. "This was my first time..." she whispered hoping that would not turn him off..

James is glad that she didn’t stop kissing me when he rolled her over. When she finally did, she didn’t pull away but laid on him. This was a good sign as well. But then she catches him off guard. Her first time… they hadn’t made love… oh she meant this was her first kiss. She really sheltered wherever she came from. Well, this would explain why she has been so shy and tentative. The tension she’s been holding in case she needed to run away. “Well, if I had known that, I would have planned something memorable.” He laughs and it sounds genuine. “But don’t worry,” he says as he runs a hand down Lil’s back, across the small curve of her butt, and finally resting against the side of her hip, “I’m not going to take any more firsts from you tonight. For one, the logistics would be a nightmare with this arm. But also, you look like you need some time to consider what you want from life. Not just where should you run from whatever is chasing you.” James leans down and kisses the top of her head. “Sleep here with me tonight. I think we will both feel better for the company.”

Lil smirked at his comment about making it memorable. It was memorable enough for her considering her past but she did not say a word about it. Though his next words froze her. He knew... or he was just making a guess and most likely it was the second. There was not many men who would know who she really is and still shelter her. Her father was not an ordinary men, not even mentally. Her eyes closes as his lips planted a kiss to her head. Yes she would surely not mind to sleep here with him tonight. "If it is just company you are looking for, horses are an option too..." she giggled and snuggled closer to him. "Good night my hero. And thanks again for keeping me alive." she whispered before she slowly drifted into sleep. It was maybe the deepest sleep she every had since she ran away from home but the nightmares did not let her alone. She woke up jumping in fear. She was still on his chest. Probably she did not move unconsciously not to hurt his arm. She took a deep breath and laid back on his chest closing her eyes trying to calm herself down.

James slept as well, a comfortable weight on him as Lilura fell asleep on his chest. He even chuckled a little at her joke about the horses. And as he slept through the night he dreamt. Lilura was buying the homesteads, she was telling him that she needed to just get the bank to sign-off on the transfer... but she was getting on a train with them... she leaned out the window laughing and waving. He was riding his horse, chasing after the train before it picked up speed... but his horse was so slow, he couldn't ever catch it. Lilura kept waving and as the train started pulling away from him, she threw a single deed out the window. It was caught in the draft of the train and rose, higher and higher, before starting to flutter back down. James chased after it, finally catching it as it landed in the tall prairie grass. He looked around, there was nothing in sight, no town, no train, no homesteads, just empty prairie. He looked down at the deed... it was for his own home. James startles awake as well when he feels Lilura jump but he doesn't say anything. As she settles, he wraps his arm back around her. Wanting to keep her close, or maybe keep a closer eye on her. Eventually his breathing evens out again as well. Better try to get a little more shut eye before the sun comes up. Eventually, it is time to wake up and he rubs his hand along Lilura's back until she begins to stir. He rolls her off of him and sits up, working out some of the stiffness from the night. "Well, it doesn't feel like I have any stab wounds. That's always a nice way to start the day." He looks over himself and then checks the bindings on his arm. "Come loosen this up. I don't want it to lock up on me. Then grab some of the provisions from the horses, I'll start some coffee and you can make us breakfast. There should be some bacon and beans in one of the packs." He sits on the edge of the bed, pulling on his boots with one hand. Then stands, stretching his neck from side to side. "Once we'v

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e eaten, we should probably head back. Unless you're really desperate to try your hand at shooting still. Think about it, I'm going to take a piss." With that, he walks out into the chilly morning, finding a spot reasonably distant from the cabin to relieve himself.

She hated to be rolled off like a kitten and left alone over the bad. Was that really what he was gonna after the kissed? She was indeed lucky that nothing more than a kiss had happened or she would be feeling like a prostitute right now. Him finishing with her and leaving. And even worse, ordering her around. Was she gonna show him hat she was offended? Hell no... She slowly raised from the bed and walked to him fixing his arm. She did not say a word and turned to find the said bacon and the beans finding his report about his where beings, annoying, like she was not annoyed enough. How could she be that stupid? He was still in love with his dead fiancee and she really though like he could like her too? Bull shit! She walked back with everything she found. The best thing was that they would have their food and go back home. She would deal with her job, take her money and leave before her father find her. She placed everything on the table and started to set the breakfast ready. Once she was done, she just made herself a sandwich and walked our murmuring..."I will eat outside."

James watches with amusement as Lilura sulks while getting up, while getting the food, while preparing it, and finally while slinking outside to eat. By god, after some kissing and one night together, was she expecting to stay in bed with him all day? He simply got up to do what, well presumably what everyone does in the morning, and she's acting like she's been left at the alter. This immaturity would have been infuriating if it weren't so damn adorable. The fierce facade she uses to cover her ignorance of the world. James sighs and begins eating his bacon, washing it down with some coffee. He's going to need to talk with her about last night. But might as well fill his belly first. It was going to be a long ride home today. Finally, he walks out of the cabin, seeing Lilura finishing her breakfast. "Lilura, I'm not going to be much of a teacher, but are you still itching to fire a gun before we leave? I'd just as soon not do it but since we came all the way out here, figured I should ask."

Lilura was still on the stairs outside eating her sandwich. The weather was okay and horses were rested. They could easily go back home in a few hours. She hated the idea of her not having her own horse. After everything she was gonna need to ride with him. Again. She eyed the horse that was carryng their meals. Could that beast carry Lil? At the end, they already ate most of its load. She jumped when Jamed walked out to talk to her. She was not expecting him that soon. It was not easy to have a meal with a broken arm but there he was. She raised her eyes to him and really hated his attitude like nothing has happened last night. She slowly raised and dusted her skirt off. "I think you should not start things that you can not finish ..." she muttered attempting to go back inside to leave the plate she has. "There is no reason to try if you think you can not teach... " she added with a very passive aggressive tone.

James frowns as Lilura makes her comments. Was she actually upset because he didn't push for more last night? Something must be bothering her because she was only about half finished with her breakfast. She probably wasn't used to a 'camp breakfast' which means eating fast and getting on with your day. It was going to be a slow ride back home. If Lilura expected to spend the morning lying around together in bed, she definitely has lived a sheltered life. He'd be happy to invite her back to bed when they got back to the house but right now, there were things to do. Things that were more important than whatever she had in her head. James doesn't let her by as she tries to go inside. He pushes her up against the doorframe, his body holding her there, his hand resting on the wall over her head. She can feel his heat, just like the night before when she was pinned next to him in the bed. "You didn't want me to start what I finished last night. That was obvious and if you're upset by it this morning then you can strip down and climb back into bed. But, if you do that, we're going to get home late, which is what I'm trying to avoid. "Now, if you're upset that you didn't get a good morning kiss," he slides his hand down to the back of Lilura's head, tilting it up towards him, "well, I can take care of that right now." His eyes look down at her, the surge of anger being replaced with desire as he thinks about being this close to her, about another kiss with her.

Lilura was surely did not expect to be cornered at the door. Her heart leaped as she was able to feel his heat that close again. Her eyes found his, she was once more challenging. She was looking at him like * you can't scare me like that * while her heart was drumming. "I am not one of your toys!" she snapped at his offer. What was he thinking? That she would just slide into his bed with a word of him? He could dream on that! Though, things changed pretty quick. When he pulled her to himself, letting her feel his breath on hers once, as she knew the taste of it already, her guard went down pretty quick. * Come on lil dont be that easy * she said to herself but it was not easy. She was longing for that kiss. She could do it again and again, for hours. Seing his gaze also changing, burning with desire, her last drop of challenge was gone. She closed her eyes waiting for that kiss, her body leaning forward to touch his. Her pride would not let her to make the move and kiss him but she surely would let him to kiss her.

James sees her immediate tension, he had expected that. He needed to break through that immediate reaction to always pull away. And, he did. Her head tilted back on its own as her eyes closed and she waited for him to kiss her. James leaned down, keeping his body pushing into hers, his hand sliding through her hair, his lips moving in until they pressed against hers. He feels her softness, her eagerness. His own desire flares and he tilts his head to kiss her more deeply. This wasn't how he expected his little demonstration of guns to go but it wasn't a bad outcome either. This girl, this woman, had so much fire. A fire that might be used to keep him warm as well. He kisses her for a long time, minutes slipping by without notice. Finally, he pulls back just enough to speak, his lips still brushing hers as he does. "Lil, you're never going to be anyone's toy and I pity anyone who tries to make you."

She did not move till his lips met hers and once he started to kiss her she did not hold back. His fire was exploding her powder. Now she knew why her mother never allowed her alone with a man. Seconds turned into minutes but none was enough. Her whole body was burning against his and it was scaring her. She was almost begging for more and it surely was not intention. It was too scary for her as it was very unfamiliar. She hated when he stopped the kiss but also was grateful he did not fully pulled back. She needed that closeness. Her eyes remained close as she did not wanto wake up to reality. She loved to listen to his voice. Deep, strong. Her nose tip brushed his as she moved back to the exact spot where she was feeling his lips on hers. "You are toying me..." she whispered. "You are telling me your love story and then you are kissing me like I am that woman..." which surely was a funny comment for a girl who has never kissed a man, a girl who does not know what it is to be loved.

James leans back in, kissing Lilura again. "Me?" Kiss. "I" Kiss. "wouldn't" Kiss. "dream" Kiss. "of" Kiss. "it." He kisses her deeply and thoroughly. His good hand, running down her side, slipping onto her lower back, pushing her hips into his again. Re-establishing that feeling of closeness that they had last night. Allowing Lilura to feel the manifestation of his desire for her.

She kept her eyes closed letting him kiss her between his words. Was he serious or was he just trying to convince her? she could never know that. Her body moved towards him, trembling when his hand slid through her curves and finally she fully leaned on him feeling how his body wanted her. Now that, was scary for her. She softly moaned into his lips. He was clearly aware of how much she was enjoying it even if she would not have moaned. But still that was embarrassing. She placed her hand to his chest and this time gave a stronger push than last night. Her eyes were still closed as she was panting. "I think we should go back home... we are getting late" she whispered, her voice did not allow her louder.

James can feel Lilura melting into his arms. Hearing her moan as he firmly planted his lips against hers again made him shudder. He didn't want this to end. And then she pushed him away. He stood there for a moment, trying to decide if he should push her further, in the state she was in, if he grabbed her again, he doubted she would have the willpower to resist. His mind still raced ahead, it would feel good to run his hands across the bare skin of her body. But what then? Would that make her more willing to do what he needed from her? Or would it make her angry and resentful? He still didn't know enough about her, this was a dangerous complication and taking it further would likely only create a mess right now. "Alright," he finally says, "alright, it's probably best that we do stop... put this on hold... for now." He begins to do what he can to take down the camp and re-pack anything he can onto the horses. There was no saddle for the packhorse, just a couple of bags thrown over it's back. They were not as full as when they started, that should help them make a little better time. Once everything is ready, James climbs onto the horse again, then helps Lilura get back into the saddle. He turns towards Horizon and sets the horse off at a gentle trot. The day is clear and warm, there's a slight breeze, enough to help cool them off but not be a nuisance. James doesn't initiate conversation, preferring to focus on the path ahead. After some hours of riding, they're getting close to the house again. It looks like they are going to make it back just before dark. That will be good.

Lil was grateful he did not insist. She really did not have the emotional power to resist him. Not while she needed someone in her life to fill that gap of an awful father, a strong protector, the first hero of a little girl and while he kept saving her. She helped him packing up while his words were playing in her mind. * Put this on hold... for now * ... What was he planning? She was looking at him from time to time trying to figure what he was thinking and if she was caught she was giving him a shy smile and running her eyes off. Once they were ready to leave she climbed up to the horse and wrapped her arms around his waist, leaning her body on him fully. As he did not say a word, she did not start any conversations also. She did not know what to say. All she knew was to go home and lock her door every night. If he were to made it to her room, there was no way out.

Once again, the miles rolled by as the horses plodded onward, tireless in their travel across familiar ground. Even with two people, his stallion was strong enough to keep a decent pace. James concentrated on keeping them on course so they could reach home before dark. Between that and his arm, he didn't have the energy to strike up conversation. But when the horse would slow to a walk, either taking a break or moving through tricky ground, he would lay his good hand on top of Lilura's as she held him around the waist. It wasn't much but he hoped that it would be enough to keep her content. He didn't mind when she leaned against him. His mind wandered to what he should do when they arrived home. Would she want to share his bed with all the staff watching? Moving her possessions... well, eventual possessions... into his room as well. Or would she want to stay where she was, that fierce independence reasserting itself. Well, if that's what she chose, he might have to pay her a visit. Once this damn arm was healed. He cursed under his breath. These thoughts kept him occupied, which made it a surprise when suddenly he saw the house after coming up over a rise. It would take them less than half an hour to get home now. They were close. Yes, yes someone had spotted them. James squinted. Why were there so many people at the house? The activity around the house continued to grow as they approached. There was definitely something going on. What was it? They wouldn't have been preparing a search party for them yet. They were expected to be gone through today. Finally, as they rode into the yard surrounding the house, James could see two women standing on the back porch. They were dressed rather formally. An older looking woman, tall and stern looking. A younger woman, similarly tall, blonde-haired, and looking nervous but excited. He had know idea who these women are...

Lilura was also in silence, travelling at his back. She surely had a lot to say but she did not know where to start. Her mind was a mess. Were they a thing? Did he want to marry her? What was gonna happen to her dreams? She ran from home not to get married at the end. While he was so cold when they woke up, he gathered himself back after their kiss and now he was holding her hand every chance he had. Her hands caressed him from time time as they traveled and finally the house appeared. She also noticed the crowd in the house and she could say there was something wrong. James was clearly uncomfortable of the situation. She saw 2 women also from distance. Who were they? His sisters? Her heart almost stopped with the idea. How was she gonna deal with his sisters while she did not know what to do even with him. "Whats going on?" she managed to say her eye locked to the house but clearly expecting a reply from him.

The woman on the porched waved to him as they approached. She turned to the servants and issued some commands. That was strange, but they jumped at her words and a few of them ducked back into the house. The young woman standing next to her stayed still, never moving, just standing there and watching them approach. Once they were at the edge of the yard, the older woman finally noticed Lilura sitting behind James on the horse. Her expression immediately soured and she threw a scowl in Lilura's direction. Then, seeming to realize what she was doing, she plastered a smile back onto her face. "Mayor Whitmore," she called out across the property, "It's Mrs. Smith from Morton's Landing, we've been corresponding via post." It took James a second to place the name. He received a number of letters each day as the mayor. But, after a moment, recognition came. She had written about a charity she had started in Morton's Landing that... that... well did something charitable. She'd said something about 'taking the cause to the outskirts of civilization' but did that mean here? Was Horizon considered the outskirts? The politician in him kicked in. He smiled broadly as he rode the horse up towards the porch. "Well howdy Mrs. Smith, glad you saw fit to come all the way out to our humble little neck of the woods. And who is this you've brought with you?" He looks over to the young woman who has turned her head down to look at her feet. "Don't be shy dear," Mrs. Smith prods, "Introduce yourself to Mr. Whitmore." She looks up for a moment into James' face then back down at her hands which are playing with the front of her dress. "I'm Lily. I just turned twenty years old. I know how to cook and clean. I was baptized when I was a baby and have been to church every week since." She looks up briefly again and starts, "And I'm..." She looks at Lilura riding behind James with her arms around him. "And I'm not promised to anyone and have an inheritance of 50 acres." Mrs. Smith quickly

6:35 PM

jumps back in. "Yes, my lovely daughter. But come, let's get to know you better over dinner. I instructed your staff to prepare something for you to eat when you arrived. I'm sure you must be starving." She glances over to Lilura, "Once you've taken care of the horse, one of the other servants will fix you something to eat. Thank you for your help in bringing the mayor back."

Lil got bothered of him not replying to her question but moments later she noticed he did not have an answer to give as he was not also aware who were they. She moved her eyes to the young girl as james moved his attention to her and the girl started to list her qualities like a cow in the market. She could not help but roll her eyes. Mrs Smith was clearly here to foist her daughter up on James. She knew from experience... her father. She was pretty calm till the woman directed her words at Lil as if she was the stable girl. She slowly slid down the horse and dusted herself off before approaching the woman. Her chin was high with pride. Yes her father tried what she did too in the past but was never that cheap. She placed a warm smile on her face but her tone was clear that she was despising the woman. "Mrs Smith... What would it make a man if he couldn't find the way back to his home alone but needed the help of a woman." her gaze was locked to hers. "I am though grateful that he risked his life to bring me back in one piece. " hell no she was not an easy bite. Not even for Mrs Smith. "And you did great to make them get the meal ready, But Mr Withmore needs a doctor more than a meal right now. Though, I am sure he would love to meet you and your lovely daughter" she smiled at the young girl " for the breakfast" she said and her tone raised. "Maria! Please send someone for doctor and get a room ready for our guests." her gaze was locked on the woman's "And please make sure they are well taken care of!" she said and turned to look at James over her shoulder. Her gaze was deadly. Any words that would come out of his lips would clearly be the ones to write their future. Though it was also clear that James was supposed to forget his dreams about sharing a room or a bed with Lil as he would surely risk his life considering the way she was glaring at him.

Maria jumped at Lilura's command. She immediately ducked around the house to go fulfill it. Some of the other servants look a little confused at what's happening. They had been doing as told by Mrs. Smith because she had assumed command of the household like she would in her own. And now Lilura was coming in, fierce and demanding, they did not know what to do. And so, like all servants when faced with conflict, they began to find other tasks they needed to do, melting away into the house and background until there were none left outside. James could see Mrs. Smith was shocked into silence. But it wasn't going to last, he'd better say something before it all went sideways. Especially because he thought it was pretty telling how jealous Lilura seemed to be right now. Maybe something had gotten through her shell out at the cabin. "Mrs. Smith, I appreciate you taking the time to make sure a meal was prepared. You've obviously been a hostess before and I'm sure my household was in good hands with you. But, my young... companion here is correct. I suffered a fall while out riding and need the doctor to set it properly so that it can heal." I've climbed off the horse as well, carefully, and started making my way up the porch. I take one of her hands in my good hand and raise it to my lips, giving it a kiss. "I propose a compromise. I will take your meal in my room, that way I can enjoy the fruits of your labor and prepare for the medical care I need. Tomorrow, we can all sit down for a meal and talk about your... what was it again?" Mrs. Smith does not look happy with the compromise but has to accept since James is legitimately injured. She pulls herself up to her full height, making a show of accepting the offer. "Very well," she says, "I think it would be best that you prepare yourself for the doctor. Foolish decisions can haunt a man for his whole life if not properly taken care of." She shoots another look at Lilura. "I will have Lily bring a plate up for you on

6:09 PM

ce you are settled." Lily jumps a little at hearing her name. She's been staring down at her hands again but looks up at James when her mother speaks. A blush rises on her cheeks. "Yes mother."

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James glances at her then looks away. "Well, that's settled then. And I'll have someone make up a room for you. I'm afraid you'll have to share as the other room is occupied at the moment. Lilura will be staying there until we finalize our business together." He looks over at Lilura, giving her a smile to let her know that's not the only reason she should stay. But also wanting to have a reason not to turn her out immediately.

6:12 PM

With that, he starts to walk back into the house. Even he wants to get out of this tense situation

Lil listened to his words calmly. Of course he would not and even could not send them away that was also why she offered them to stay for the night. Everything was perfect till that old woman offered her daughter to serve him in his room. She wanted to reach and grab her hair , drag her out of the yard and come back but as james said it was settled her gaze turned back to him. Under different circumstances she would smile back at him but while he wanted his meal from the hands of Lily, she had nothing else to say. She gracefully dropped a curtsy and rushed back in the house towards her room. Her eyes were filling in anger but it was not gonna stay there. She was not gonna leave her ground so easy. When she reached her room she locked her door and took her clothes off getting into the bed. After all had happened it was not hard for her to drift into sleep. Moments later she heard the door open. She narrowed her eyes and raised to sit in bed. It was James. "What are you doing here?" She asked as the man slid into the room and locked the door behind himself. Her heart started to pound. She wrapped the blanket around her body and moved to the opposite corner of the room not sure what was going on. "I am not available!" She snapped at him but he did not care. Just like in the hut he cornered her to the wall. She could feel his breath on her face as his hand went to her hair pulling her to himself to kiss her once more. She resisted , or at least tried but she did not want to say no. She melted into his kiss once more. As the kiss deepened his hands started to roam on her body but the blanket was still between them. James broke the kiss to look into her eyes, he ripped off the blanket and that moment the door opened again. A small scream escaped her lips as Killian walked into the room and the sound of the gun echoed before james fell on the floor in a blood bath. Mrs Smith was grinning at her glaring inside the room.

5:12 AM

And she woke up. She was all sweating but she was grateful that it was a dream. She hugged her pillow and cried for a short moment before she managed to gather herself back. Sliding the blanket aside she found her water bowl to splash some water on her face. This was too much. She was so stupid to get attached to the man who clearly was looking for a woman to enjoy his time. He did not even bother to let Lily in his room. She growled to herself and found something to wear before she rushed out. She had to find Maria and eat something.

James watched Lilura stomp away. She tried to make it graceful with the curtsy but as soon as that was over, her entire body showed just how angry she was. He sighed. She'd better be worth it. Maybe Mrs. Smith would consider doing it in exchange for whatever charity work she was pushing... unless she wanted her other obvious agenda entertained. That might not be worth the trade unless he was really desperate. He continued up the stairs, hearing Lil's door slam and lock on down the hall as he reached the top. He pauses for a moment, considering going to her room, but then turns around and walks back over to his own. Once in his room, he gets down to the business of trying to change clothes, getting out of these trail-worn, dirty ones. The boots give him some trouble, trying to do it one-handed. Eventually, he catches the edge on the cross-bar of his bed and uses that to leverage them off. His pants are easier, dropping once he gets the button undone. He steps on the hems to pull his legs out. The shirt is awkward to unbutton with just his off-dominant hand but he finally manages. Of course, with the rigged sling, he can only get it off one side, leaving it dangling from his other shoulder. ----- Meanwhile, downstairs Mrs. Smith and Lily have gone back into the kitchen. Mrs. Smith gives an imperious look around the kitchen, making sure that everything is to her liking. Then she turns to Lily who is still looking down at her hands. "Stand up straight, girl. You mustn't keep looking down, everyone will assume you're a doormat to be walked over. You're going to have an important role to play here, and I don't want you to mess it up." She puts her hand under Lily's chin and raises it up sharply. "Yes, Mother. Sorry, Mother." Lily says quietly. Her head instinctively trying to go back down but her mother has kept her hand under her chin. "Sorry, I'll keep my head up." She looks across the kitchen, picking a point that doesn't have any people and staring at it intently.

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"I swear, if I was 20 years younger, I would do this myself. It's so frustrating dealing with men, you have to dangle something enticing in front of them before they'll even consider some serious topic like supporting the request to establish a church with every new town charter granted on the frontier. Such a godless land, God knows if there weren't people like me, striving with all my might, the whole country would go to hell." She paces around the kitchen for a little while, tasting things, adding spices, pointing out things to fix or clean. Lily stays standing where she was, continuing to stare at the wall. Finally, the food seems to be ready and Mrs. Smith hovers over the servants putting together a tray of food for James. Mrs. Smith waves Lily over to take it. "Now, make sure Mr. Whitmore gets his meal while it's hot and that he is satisfied." Lily picks up the tray, fighting the urge to look down at it as she walks out of the kitchen. She passes Lilura in the hallway as she looks for Maria. It's likely that Lil heard the last instructions given by Mrs. Smith. -----

7:49 AM

James collapses on the bed after the effort of getting his clothes off, taking a break just for a few minutes. It feels good to stretch out and finally feel comfortable. Finally, he's just started getting into a new pair of jeans, bouncing to try and pull them up far enough with just one hand. And right in the middle of this, as he stands there with his fly undone, the pants still parted open, and bare-chested with a shirt hanging from his arm, the door opens and there stands Lily with a tray full of food, looking straight ahead. Her face immediately blushes and she looks down. She starts to turn away but with an obvious force of will, stays facing James. "I brought your food," she murmurs, "but I don't think you're ready to eat yet." She moves into the room, hesitantly at first, setting the tray down on a table. She forces her head back up to look at him, her face turning even deeper crimson. "I can help you with that," she says as she takes a step towards him.

Lil hide behind a door as she heard Mrs Smith and her daughter, Lily talking about James. It was funny how she was throwing her daughter in the arms of a man in the name of God. Lil surely was not a religious woman but she was at least, calling herself a decent person. Was she? Wasn't she the one having evil plans about James? Her eyes raised to the ceiling like she was begging forgiveness from God but when She saw Lily moving out with Mrs Smith right behind her, she sank to the shadows waiting for them to pass. Once they disappear Lil moved out of her darkness glaring behind them. She had to find a way to get rid of those women or they were gonna ruin her own plans. While she was thinking of a solution, God sent her a savior, The Doctor! She wanted to hug him but instead she smiled kindly. "Just on time!" she said and gracefully directed him towards James's room. Once they were at the door she knocked the door but before he could call them in she opened and walked in. The scene she was facing was not something she enjoyed. When she saw Lily helping him to dress up she thought her heart stopped. Her gaze sealed with disappointment meeting the surprised look in his face. "Sorry I did not mean to disturb..." she said with a meaningful tone. "The doctor is here." she said and walked aside letting the doctor in and without a word she left the room. She was unable to breath and the tears were running in her eyes. She could not stay there more. She rushed out to the porch and grabbed one of the horses. She pulled herself over one of them and kicked its sides letting the beast trot towards the town. He kissed her and now he was enjoying Lily? REALLY? That Girl???? As she was moving around to calm down, herbalist took her attention. The tears froze in her eyes as an evil grin widened on her face. An hour later she was back home. She slowly get off the horse and walked into the house. She took a deep breath... The war was on the door and they asked for it.

James tried to protest as Lily stepped towards him. He didn’t need help, and didn’t need this pawn making a move in her mother’s plan. It was pretty obvious that she wanted Lily to try seducing James. Either causing a scandal she could use to force him to pay for her charity to keep quiet or push for a marriage that would give her access to the town more fully. “It’s alright,” Lily said, “Mother thinks I can’t do it… but, but there’s a boy at home. I want to practice for him.” She reached for the front of his trousers before he could say anything. He stepped backwards, hitting the bed and nearly falling backwards into it. “You don’t have to…” he stuttered as her hands fumbled with the buttons. It was at this point that the doctor entered, escorted by Lilura. The look on her face as she ran out the door made James curse silently. She wasn’t going to like what she saw. But, she also ran off before he could say anything. Well, problem for another time then. “Doctor! So glad you were available so quickly. I’m having a devil of a time with this arm.” Lily looked embarrassed again. She stepped away and said, “I’ll just leave this here then. You can eat it when you’re ready.” Then she scurried out of the room too. The doctor started unwrapping the bandages. He looked for blood or infections. Then examined the break spot and shoulder. He went to his bag and retrieved some morphine. “Good thing you haven’t eaten yet, it will make this work faster.” After injecting James, he spent some time resetting the arm and shoulder, cleaning the wound site, and doing a proper sling. James was in a stupor of pain and drugs. The doctor went down and talked to Mrs. Smith as she was waiting at the foot of the stairs, making herself seem like an authority. “He needs rest,” the doctor said, “he might be lucid later this evening but should wait until morning to have visitors or do anything but lie in bed.” And with that he left the house.

Lilura walked up the stairs. The house was silent and she did not want to include Maria in her mess unless needed. This was gonna be a bloody war but Lil was gonna make sure they did not have strength to strike back. She knocked on their door but there was no one. She sneaked in and first looked into their luggage. She found the shampoos. Of course that witch would bring her own. She opened and smelled it. I was smelling like heaven... Alas though it was gonna be useless. She dropped the dye inside, an ugly green and did the same with conditioner. Then she found the ones that were provided by James and fixed them too, just that it was not green it was a very ugly light brown color. Next was the gowns... She grabbed the itching powder and made sure all the outfits had them and especially the underwear... The sexy ones at first. She was listening to the house while she was working. The last thing she found was to be busted but thankfully the pair was too busy handling the house. Her last move was the worst. They were gonna have one if nothing. She dropped a couple of drops in the water carafe that would cause diarrhea for the rest of their day. Forget visiting James, they could not even leave the pot. She could not help but grin. Once she was done she sneaked back to her room but she did not go to sleep. She started to pace up and down in the house to listen to what was going on and if her plan worked.

Mrs. Smith was irritated that the doctor had interrupted her plan. Doubly so that the little girl hanging around James had seemed to make it happen. She was a complication that could ruin everything. Horizon was a town on the cusp of a boom, she could feel it coming and she wanted to have a part in it. Having James tied to her daughter would be just the leverage she needed to make sure all that money was going to God's work - as best she saw fit, of course. Well, when one door closes, another one opens. James wasn't going to be completely lucid tonight, it might be the perfect time to slip Lily into bed with him. When he wakes up next to her, she can start to push her agenda. Though, it was a little concerning to her how quickly Lily went along with the plan. She knew... she KNEW that her daughter was still a pure virgin but at that age, she might be having adulterous thoughts. God would forgive if Mrs. Smith could get them married, but she would have to keep a close eye on the situation. First things first though, Lily needed a bath before bedtime, she wanted her looking her best when we made her second attempt. And while Lily was bathing, Mrs. Smith needed to do something about this other girl. Fortunately, she had an idea that would make her night uncomfortable. "Lily! Time to get into the bath. It's downstairs, you can ask Maria for some hot water if you need it. Take the shampoo and wash your hair out well. I don't want any dirt left in it. I'll meet you back in the bedroom when you're done." Mrs. Smith gives the commands. Lily jumps up and starts gathering her things, clothes, brush, shampoo and soap, before scurrying downstairs. Mrs. Smith went off in search of one of the Mexican men who worked the house. She knew passable Spanish and was pretty sure she could convey what she needed. She found a man outside and approached him. "Hola Senor," she began, then continued in a simple, broken Spanish, "*Senor Whitmore, he is nervous... maybe bugs from outside

7:42 AM

, come inside... no want beds get full of bugs... you take bed from girl upstairs... take sleeping bed outside, so no bugs. Ok, you understand?" The man looked like he was trying to follow and piece together some of the things she was saying. It was difficult for him because of her accent and the imprecise words she was using. He looked at her quizically for a moment. "You want me to take her mattress outside and then beat it to chase out the bugs? We do that from time to time but isn't it a bit late to get that started?" He said in his fluent Spanish, not sure how much she could understand but also not sure what he could say to make her understand. "Si, si, ahora. Ahora." Mrs. Smith emphasized the "now." She wasn't sure everything he said but he seemed to understand the request but didn't want to do it right away. Lazy Mexicans, always trying to get out of work. Well, she'd make sure it happened. "Ahora, por favor. Por Senor Whitemore." She added again. The man shook his head. Why had Mr. Whitmore even allowed this woman into the house? She arrived while he was away and said she was expected. Now it felt like she had taken over. But, work was work and he didn't want to lose his job and move on to the next town. At least here the work wasn't out in the beating sun all day. He trudged up the stairs, opening Lilura's door without knocking. He looked surprised to see her in there, and looked back over his shoulder towards James' room but the door was shut there. He'd probably have to do the same thing to his mattress in the morning.

7:42 AM

"Perdon, senorita." He started, then continued in Spanish, "I have to take your bed outside for cleaning. I can get you a clean blanket to sleep on tonight, if you need one." He moved forward, getting ahold of the mattress and pulling it off the bed. It wasn't very thinkc, so it came easily, he was able to stand it on its side and started walking it towards the door. "You might want to change your clothes and get them washed too. The bugs don't leave easily if you let them grow." He said as he got half the matress out through the door.

-------- Meanwhile, downstairs in the bath room, Lily was making sure the door was securely shut and locked before stripping off her clothes. She wasn't quite as tall as her mother but she was still long and lean, her limbs graceful, her hips slim but starting to fill out. Her back and arms were naturally toned from the work of living in the frontier. That and her mother and father believed that hard work was a good Christian value. They never passed up an opportunity to have her and her brothers and sisters do some, even if her parents didn't join in. She stepped into the bathtub, lowering herself slowly until it covered her legs and waist as she sat up. She scooped up some water and poured it over her breasts, watching the nipples harden as the water splashed over them. She ran her hands over them and down between her legs. She was thinking of Henry, the boy back home. Thinking of how her body reacted when he was near, how she wanted to simply press herself against him. She glanced over at the door, making sure it was locked before sinking deeper into the bath and releasing some of the tension she'd been feeling. After a litle while, she picked up the shampoo. Her mother was undoubtedly going to have her try to sneak back into James' room tonight. This shampoo had a lavendar scent that was supposed to be calming. It would help keep him from making a scene. At least that's what mother said. She poured some into her hands... it looked weird today but make that was from the heat on their trip over. Well, no matter, she lathered it up and made sure to get all of her hair cleaned. Finally rinsing it out by dunking her head in the tub. When she was finished, she stepped out of the tub, drying herself off and going to find her brush. She started with long strokes, brushing through the wet hair to make sure it didn't tangle. Once the initial brushing was done, she pulled it over her shoulder to make sure the ends were done as well. And that's when she saw it... that w

7:56 AM

asn't her hair color... that wasn't any hair color she'd ever seen... what was this? "AAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHH NOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!" She yelled, turning around and looking at the water in the tub. It was also tinged green and looked like a swamp. She continued yelling and started crying in big loud sobs. Her mother pounded on the door when she arrived, demanding that Lily open up and let her in. Lily finally was able to get herself to the door and opened it. Crying and trying to grab her mother but Mrs. Smith kept her arms distance away. "Don't get any of that on me," she said while pushing Lily back into the bath room. "Calm down girl, let me see what's happened, let me think." The door shut behind them but Lily's wails could still be heard throughout the house.

Lilura was pacing up and down in the room waiting still for the mess to come out. If they had missed one trap they were going to catch another. She would love to see that woman's face when she saw her daughter in green hair. She could not help but giggle. The knock at her door though made her jump. She was bit jumpy but after all she did who would not be? She cleared her throat, placed her sweetest smile to her face and opened the door. "Marcus?" she said pretty surprised. Hell, he was the last person she would expect to see in front of her room. Lilura would understand the spanish perfectly but she had no idea what he was talking about. What bugs was he talking about? But when he said that he has to take her bed she understood and closed her eyes to calm herself down..."Good try Mrs Smith..." she murmured and opened her eyes looking back at Marcus with a warm smile. "No bichos aqui..." she said. Of course she had an accent but her spanish was good. Why would that woman try to take her bed away? Was she stupid or what? She was supposed make her sleep deep not keep her awake all night! She shook her head hoping she could convince the guy because he seemed determined. But that moment screams started to raise from the bathroom. Her gaze turned down and then an evil smile widened on her face. "Oh NO! Marcus, she must have meant their room!" she said in spanish. "They need help! Run!" she said running along side him. Marcus was clearly confused as he had no idea what was going on and Lil was so lucky that he did not understand English very well. She reached the door before him and knocked it.

9:05 AM

"Mrs Smith are you allright?" she yelled. She could hear the crying of Lily and the cursing of the old woman. That was just the right time. She pulled back and turned Marcus. "They need help Marcus, you need to break the door. She is crying!" she said in spanish. She was never that happy to learn that language. When her mother told her she needed to to understand what is really going on in the house, she was upset but now, she was grateful to learn it. "Hurry up Marcus She must be in pain!" she rushed the guy and moved aside opening the way for him. She could see the hesitation on his face. What if the girl was naked? But Senor James would be so angry if anything were to happen his guests. Marcus was a huge man. The door handled the first hit but against the strength of Marcus, it gave in the second time. The screams of women were echoing in the house. Lilura rushed in behind him and grabbed a couple towels throwing towards him making sure she chose from the powdered ones. Marcus grabbed them and turned to spot Lily. His face was worth to be seen when she saw the girl with green hair. The fear, the anger..."La Bruha..." he snarled. This was even going better than she hoped. Mrs Smith was screaming like there is no tomorrow for help. Her daughter was half naked in the presence of a stable man. Marcus threw first towel to her head blocking her green hair and then the other around her body... Poor girl was gonna itch all night. He threw her to his shoulder and started to run out while Mrs Smith was screaming for help. "HELP !!! HE IS KIDNAPPING MY DAUGHTER!!!" Meanwhile Lilura was watching the scene with a very content smile on her face. She wondered when would James be awake and out to see that mess.

Mrs. Smith felt powerless against the large Mexican carrying her daughter away. She was scared and angry and saw a target for her rage. Rounding on Lilura she continued screaming. “YOU DID THIS! You did something, I just know it! I’ll have you kicked out of this house. You won’t ruin my plans you little transient harlot.” She turned back to follow Marcus who had deposited Lily outside on the front lawn. She pointed back at Lilura in the house. “La Bruha ahi. Bruha ahi.” She waved her arms. “Take La niña. Ella es malo” Marcus looked back at the house. He didn’t know what was going on here but Senor James had invited the small girl in, he didn’t think he should mess with her. He decided that his best option was to do what servants always did when there was trouble; be busy somewhere else. “Tengo trabajo” he said has he scurried off towards the barn. Leaving the women alone on the porch and in the yard. “Mr. Whitmore will hear about this. Just you wait!” She huffed before dragging Lily back inside to see if she could rinse any of the dye out.

7:10 PM

Upstairs in his bedroom, James could hear something happening. It sounded loud. Was that a person or a coyote screaming… he didn’t much mind though. It all felt distant. Like it was happening somewhere far away, far far away from being his problem. He wondered if Lil was still here. She had left when the doctor came in. Maybe she didn’t like doctors. But she had soft lips, he liked that. Maybe she would come back and kiss him again. Oh! But she would want him to be dressed. He knew there were clothes somewhere. But maybe they were also far away. Maybe Lily would have to bring them to him. She was pretty and she stood very close to him. Could he even put his clothes on when she was that close? Well, maybe she would help again. Then he would be ready. He could lie in bed, with all his clothes on, and wait for Lilura to come kiss him. Yes, that sounded like a good plan. He would do that… right after a nap…

Lilura glared at the woman who was still desperately trying to blame her. Her hand moved to her chest with a dramatic gasp. "Me?" She batted her lashes. "I was just trying to help!" She defended herself with the pride of her victory filling her chest with joy. When she ran after Marcus to save her half naked, green haired daughter. Lilura looked up the stairs. Where the hell was James while all that mess was going around. Did doc drugged him? Or was he not okay? She slowly walked up and paused at his door considering to knock for a moment. Her hand moved up and down a couple times not sure what to do but finally she gave a knock...There was no reply. "James?" she said with a low tone hoping everyone is busy downstairs. No reply again... she slowly opened the door and walked in sneaking aside his bed. He was sleeping like a baby like it was a peaceful night. Her hand moved to his forehead to check his fever. When there is a wound you would never know but he was okay. She slowly moved his blanket organizing it and turned to leave the room before anyone showed up.

James thrashed suddenly in his sleep. Maybe the drugs starting to wear off. He half opened his eyes but it was still blurry in his room. Was it night already? It was much quieter in the house at least, that was good. He noticed a movement near the door. Was someone there checking on him? Probably Marcus, he was so reliable. Maybe he knew what was happening. "Marcus? Did you see where she went? What happened to her? I don't want her to leave..." James stuttered. It was hard to talk, like his mouth was full of cotton. "She's pretty, isn't she. All the way out here in Horizon. Who would have thought?" He tried to sit up but immediately got dizzy and dropped back. "Maybe she can help my plans." "I just need her to come back..." "Where are you, Lil..." "Come back, Lil..." "Lilura." James slips back into sleep, unaware of who he was really talking to.

Lil froze when she thought he was awake. He was semi awake but clearly still under the effect of drugs. She walked back to his side after locking the door and listened to him to talk, asking for herself. Her heart almost melted. He was asking for her and not Lily. She slowly sat next to him and held his hand. She wanted to tell him that she did not leave but he was not awake. She then took off her boots and moved to the other side of the bed laying on his side. She was not gonna leave him alone as he did not leave her alone when she was bitten. She leaned closer and placed a soft kiss to his lips before laying back to his side. "I am not going anywhere..." she whispered wondering what the plans are that he was talking about. She slowly drifted into sleep watching him till dusk. She had to make sure those women were not coming around. With the sun rising she drifted into sleep next to him.

As the sun rose, the grounds around the house came alive. Chickens began to cluck and wander around scratching for food. The dogs roused and began chasing small animals that scurried back to their dens. Cows mooing and horses neighing in the barn. And people, bustling around as the daily chores started once again. The handle on the door to James' room rattled a little. Like someone was trying to open it. It rattled again and a confused female voice made a loud whisper, hard to hear the words but obvious in the intent. She wasn't expecting the door to be locked and was asking what to do. Inside the room, it was quiet and peaceful still. The closed curtains make the room a dim, calm place amid all the activity. James yawns, feeling rested after the deep, medicated sleep of the night before. He's glad nothing went wrong that would require his attention. He stretched out his arms, not quite feeling ready to get up. His arm hits something next to him in bed. For a moment, he panics, trying to orient himself to where he is. Was he actually still in his room? Did he get moved somewhere else? He opens his eyes, seeing the familiarity of his room. He takes a deep breath, feeling a little more relaxed but also a little apprehensive of who was in the bed... slowly he turns his head. Lilura is lying there next to him, her breathing soft and even. She's sleeping. James feels a wave of relief. He turns a little more, looking at her lying next to him. "When did you decide to come in here, little fire. How peaceful you are when you sleep," he says softly to not disturb her. He lays his hand gently on her cheek then moves it down to her shoulder. The house staff know their business, it shouldn't be a problem for him to stay here late this morning. And no one else has come in to disturb them, so things must be fine. ----- In their bedroom, Mrs. Smith is fuming but trying to keep her voice down. Lily has set a tray of food on the table, it was intended for James but the door h

6:24 AM

ad been locked. Mrs. Smith paces back and forth, complaining about how she knows 'that girl' is ruining her plans on purpose. Well, she has another idea and another battlefield. She won't keep fighting where this girl has the advantage. It was time for a new tactic. "Come Lily, gather your things. We're leaving this horrible house. I'll show Mayor Whitmore why he can't choose a little tramp over a God-fearing, Christian woman like my.... like you dear." A short time later, they have both packed their things and left, heading in the direction of the small town.

With his good hand, James rolls himself over so that he's facing Lilura. He pushes some of the hair out of her face, watching her as she sleeps. He can remember how she felt the other night... was it only a day ago... when they were sleeping together. He can feel the same desire welling up in him. He leans over and kisses her on the forehead. "Lil." He kisses her on one cheek. "Lil, stay here." He kisses her on the lips. "Lil, wake up." His hand moves, caressing her arm, running down to her hand and holding her fingers for a moment. Then moving over to rest on her belly, running down and moving over her hips, then back up to brush against her breasts. With a deep breath, he cups one breast in his hand. "Lil. Lil, I want you, I need you."

Lilura was deeply in sleep when James woke up and started to watch her. It was only a few hours she managed to sleep yet. Her dream was a little bit confusing as she was dealing with Killian again who was tracking her to the town. Mrs Smith was also there to back him up. They were making a plan and Mrs Smith was trapping Lil and handing her to Killian. That moment James showed up. "Lil!" he yelled at her "Stay here Lil!" Lilura was trying to reach and grab his hand but she was unable to touch him even..."Dont let me go..." she murmured in her sleep. "Dont let him take me!" Killian slid her down to face her and kissed her lips. It was disgusting "Lil, Stay here! With me!" he said... The face she had was reflecting the disgust for the kiss, though in her mind it was coming from Killian and not James. "Dont you dare to touch me..." she murmured again in her sleep and Killian boldly grabbed her breast fondling it. How would he dare?! He was trying to kiss her again and Lilura was giving a huge fight while she was hearing James's soft voice from distance..."Lil Wake up..." Lilura, with all her strength slapped Killian in her sleep while her hand landed on James as she woke up. A little scream escaped her lips as she crawled back on the bed looking to James confused. Where was Killian? Did she just hit James? OH NO! He hand moved to her mough to hide her gasp and she crawled to his side trying to look if he was okay. "I am so sorry James... I am was seeing a nightmare..." she tried to explain unaware what really was going on before she woke up. "I just wanted to make sure you are okay, and I fell asleep at your side. I am so so so sorry I know this is very inappropriate" she started to vent our like a parrot without even breathing in between

James wraps an arm around Lilura, partly to keep her from hitting him again, and partly to make sure she doesn't try to run away. She's starting to ramble, it won't be any good trying to tell her to calm down or that he understands she was dreaming. He decides for a more direct approach to quell her. Pulling her towards him, James leans down and kisses Lilura. He keeps her pressed up close to him so that she can't try to pull away. Once he feels that she's sufficiently distracted from her earlier venting, he moves away, looking into her eyes. "Lilura, you're here. That's all I care about." He moves his broken arm up, now properly set and slinged, it gives him limited use of his hand again. He raises the arm and sets his hand on one of Lilura's breasts again. "I hope this doesn't get me, or whoever was in your dream, slapped again," he laughs. Then he guides Lilura down onto the bed, lying on her back, one of his legs settling between hers. The weight of his body pressing down on her, his hips, his torso pushing into her. He props himself up on his good arm, lifting his back so that he can look down at her. He smiles, then moves back down to kiss her.

Lilura puzzled when he wrapped his arms around her. All she was doing was making sue that he was okay and and before she could understand what was going on he leaned his lips to hers. She did not resist as this was not their first time but her body slowly relaxed between his arms as she melted into his kiss. Listened to his words slowly opening her eyes. Why would he think that she would leave? His hand moved on her breast just like in her dream. She just understood that her dream was mixed up with reality and her cheeks blushed. She could push him or slap him like in her dream, yes, but she did not want to. His touch was making her heart race and she did not want to stop right this moment. She wanted to explore that new feeling. Slowly leaned back, laying down the bed. Her breathing was changing as her heart was echoing in her ears. She was silent. That was something she had no idea about and she was loving to have him that close. She ran her gaze from him for a moment but then turned to face him. "I just wanted to make sure you are okay..." she whispered looking into his eyes.

He looks back into her eyes, "I'm doing much better now," he says. He keeps his weight on her, and carefully moves his broken arm, sliding the hand under her shirt. The touch of his fingers on the skin of her belly gives him a shudder. She wasn't fighting him, the feeling that she might give in excited him. Made him bold with desire. His hand continues to slide up, feeling her ribs, then the swell of her breast, and finally brushing over her nipple, making it come erect. His hand stays there cupping it, squeezing it gently. He leans back in, kissing her neck this time, moving up towards her ear, nibbling on it, and then back down towards her collarbone. "I'm glad you're hear to take care of me, little fire," he says as he continues to kiss her.

Lilura smiled as she heard he was feeling better. At the end she was the reason for his situation. She did not move her eyes from his, when his hand slid under her shirt. She knew what they were doing was wrong but once again she did not want to stop it. She was enjoying to feel him that close. His touch was almost burning her skin. Her heart started to beat like never before and the butterflies in her stomach was a first for her. She was not sure how to react as she did not want him to stop but she knew they had to. His hand, covered her breast and he leaned down to kiss her neck. Her whole body tensed, her back arched pushing her chest up, almost begging more of his touch. Her hips wiggled grinding softly to his leg. The pleasure she was having was turning into panic as desire was not familiar to her and this was too much for her. Her mind was in full fight with her body as one was burning with desire and the other was trying to hold the reins in fear.

James felt her arching her back to raise her breasts towards him. He felt her grinding the center of her female desire up against him. He inhaled deeply, gratified that she was enjoying this, that she wanted him to keep going. He shifted his weight back into his hips and knees, rising above her. With his good hand, he started to undo the snaps on her borrowed shirt. The stiff metal knobs popping out of their holes with a snap as he tugged on them. Each one coming free provided a view of her stomach, belly button, ribs. Finally, he popped the last fastening and spread the shirt wide, exposing Lilura's breasts to the cool air of the room. He could see them perking up at the change. He leaned back down, kissing her neck again. Kissing down to her collarbone. Kissing down to her chest. Kissing down to the top of her breasts. Kissing down to where her breast rose up to meet him. Kissing down to her nipple, licking it with his tongue then blowing on it, so the coldness felt more intense. Sucking on her nipple, concentrating the pleasure of their touch into that one point of her body.

Lilura laid there watching him undo her shirt. The pace of her heartbeat raised with each snap opened. Her eyes moved between his face and hand. Her whole body was burning with his touch. And once he was done her upper body was fully exposed to him. Her eyes turned to his for a moment but she closed her eyes when she leaned down to kiss her neck. Now there was nothing between them and his skin was so warm. Her hand moved and she placed it in his hair. His lips were exploring her body and she was so enjoying it while her mind was screaming at her to stop. "We should not do this.." she whispered. It was a plea for him to stop while her body was asking exactly the opposite

He can barely hear her words, his mind is focused on the beautiful flesh beneath his lips. He kisses her again, sliding one hand down her stomach and to the top of the waistband of her jeans. His fingers brush just underneath it. He can feel the power of his desire to take her, to make her his own. To let her fire flicker over him, warm him, and allow him to continue to fuel it. "You should be mine. I don't know what's chasing you, what you're running from, but you should be mine and I will keep it from you."

Lilura did not push him away. She was enjoying his touch, his warmth, his kisses. Her stomach sank down when his hand moved to her waist. "He will kill you..." She whispered again but this time she placed a kiss to his shoulder. Her hand was caressing his good arm up and down enjoying feeling his muscles under her touch.

The soft touch of her hand along his arm making him shiver. His hips pushing down, pressing into her, the bulge under his cloth sliding and rubbing against her. "I'm dangerous too," he growls. "And this is my town, I'm not afraid of anyone coming here and finding me unprepared." James runs the back of his hand over her stomach again. Stopping when he gets to the button, gripping one side and looking at Lil to help him get it opened.

Her body shivered under his touch. Her free hand moved down and let him open her button before she placed it to his cheek and moved up to kiss his lips. She wanted him. She wanted him to take her, to own her. Yes he could protect her but still it was too dangerous. Her lips brushed his shyly first. Her tongue slowly licked them and she whispered. " I dont want to lose you..."

James' eyes flutter at the first soft brush across his lips. As she speaks, he kisses her lower lip that moves to give her a full kiss that completely covers her mouth. His tongue, sliding across hers as his passion rises. With his good hand, he unzips the fly of her pants, spreading the fabric and giving him just enough room. He slides one hand down into her panties, his fingers running over the mound that leads to the soft, warm slit between her legs. He runs them across those outer lips, feeling a slick wetness on them. He lets out a moan as his middle finger parts those outer lips, moving inward to even more wetness, running up and down, spreading it around, until finally settling on the clit and beginning to massage it. He moves with strong, confident strokes knowing that Lil will be feeling the ache rise between her legs. An ache to be filled, to be taken, to be protected. And he knows he will do it.

She was shy to make the first move but what she did turned out amazing. His kiss was passionate, possessive like the words he used. He wanted her to be his and his kiss was claiming her as his hand was exploring her most private parts. Her cheeks were bright red as she was embarrassed letting him feel the wetness between her legs. That was her privacy till he found out. He surely was aware of what he was doing. Her fingers tightened around his wrist not pulling or pushing further but keeping her hand there was a precaution. Her hips started to wiggle as their kiss deepened. Her breathing was turning into soft moans.

He hears her moans and is encouraged by them. Feels her kiss grow more passionate. The tightness of her grip on his arm. His fingers continue to rub along Lil's clit, waiting for her to show signs that the pleasure between her legs is building. He can feel her lips starting to writhe below him. This girl, unexpected showing up on his doorstep, is now quickly becoming the one he is attached to. She needs him, needs to stay here with him, needs him to complete her. James slides his hips a little closer, pressing the hardness of his manhood against the side of her hip, putting one leg over hers, and squeezing it between his legs. He wants her to know how much he desires her. How much he wants her and how much he wants to give her.

The hardness she felt at the side of her hip almost made her heart stop. She had only laid next to him because she wanted to make sure he was okay and now things were going to a point she did not plan but also she would not complain. One hand moved up to his cheek then to the back of his neck pulling him even closer while her other hand moved down to the hardness she felt to caress it up an down slowly. Her heart was beating like crazy as she was feeling a man that close the first time and maybe that was even the first time she felt she was that much desired. She wanted him to be even closer but she did not know what to do or what to say.

James' eyes roll back and he closes his eyes as Lil's hand finds his hard manhood. The flood of sensations at feeling her touch him, at knowing it means she wants more from me, of his desire for her, is overwhelming. Regretting the need to stop touching her, he moves his hand so he can tug her pants off. Quickly leaving her lying half naked on the bed, her smooth legs exposed to the cool air, spread before him. Getting to his knees, with Lil's hand still wrapped around him, he unbuttons his pants and pulls them down as well. The shaft of his manhood springing out as the pants slide away. It seems eager, hungry. James lowers himself, lying on top of Lilura again. Their skin touching, the hot desire in his loins pushing against the soft mound of her private places, ready to explore them.

She did not stop him no. Indeed she helped him to get rid of the clothes that was separating them what they were longing for, for so long. On the other hand what that man could do with one hand was indeed impressive. Once he was over her she could feel him between her legs, it was his hardness now instead of his fingers. She slowly opened her eyes to meet his. She did not know what to say but she was hoping that her eyes at least could tell him how she was feeling. She slowly raised her head and once more brushed her lips to his, softly, carefully. She surely knew what was coming. She wanted it yes but she was scared. It was something she did not know yet that she wanted to explore... with him.

James rests on the elbow of his broken and wrist of his good arm, leaning more towards the good side. When Lil kisses him, he kisses her back, unable to put his hand behind her neck, trusting that she will stay. Below, his hips begin to move, his shaft slipping between Lil's wet lips and rubbing up and down, coating himself with her slickness and rubbing the soft skin at the tip across her clit. He wants her to be ready, her body to be ready, to take him. The blood rushing to her crotch, the muscles relaxing, her sex producing the fluid that will make it easy for them to be together. He let's out a moan, saying her name as he does. "Nnnghhhh, Lil, I will have you.

James' dick quivers with anticipation

Lil did not pull back. She was enjoying every moment as he was not between her legs making her more wet every moment. Each time he slips up and down she was gasping not sure when he would push in. She was panting when he broke the kiss to whisper. She nodded softly as she did not know if he was expecting her approval or was just announcing what was coming. She was surely ready, or at least she was thinking she was. She surely was scared and she did not want to show that to him. This whole thing was complicated. The guy did not know who she was and now he was about to do something he could not take back. Nothing could stop them at that point though.

James tilted his hips back once more, dragging the tip of his manhood down across Lilura's wetness and to the opening where her body waited to receive him. He pushed, feeling the tightness of her begin to give way to him. When he encountered resistance, he pulled back, then pushed forward again, a little further each time. Finally, after some slow, deliberate motions, he was fully inside of her. Feeling the softness surround him, clenching and relaxing, as Lil's body processed these new sensations. He listened to her panting, watched her face as he made the first entry into her. And once it seemed that she was comfortable, begins to thrust in to her, filling her more deeply and thoroughly. "Lilura... Lil, my little fire. You're mine now. I don't care what's chasing you, I'll chase it off. You aren't going anywhere while I have a say in it."

Now THAT was uncomfortable. Something was pushing inside again and again and it was indeed hurting. She wondered for a why would someone like that. She could even dig her nails in his flesh once he fully filled her in. But once her walls started to adjust, the sensation started to change. From pain to pleasure. She could feel him pull back and fully fill her in over and over, filling her fully and making her feel completed. Her eyes were locked to him as she was breathing him in and out each time he shook her body. His words warmed her heart but she knew it was not gonna be that easy. She was his little fire but that fire could surround the happiness they had and burn all down... Speaking of fire... What about his ex fiancee? Was he not loving her any more? Or was he just saying all those sweet things because he was... excited. "Do you still love her?" she blurted out and it was easy to see that she did not say that intentionally. Her lips were betraying her mind...

James freezes for a moment. What is she talking about? And why is she asking random question right now? She wasn't talking about herself or she would have said 'me.' Could she be talking about Lily? He barely knew that girl. He tried not to think about it. Tried to keep focused on the moment. He felt his rhythm getting erratic, he wasn't able to stay as steady. Finally, he pauses, leaving himself buried inside her. Holding himself up on his one good arm. "Still love who? There's no one else in my life right now."

Lil needed an answer. Not that she was gonna stop anything after that moment but she needed to know before she could go on. At least she would know what to expect after that. He surely was giving promises she needed but how real were they? The answer of the question would give it to her. "Your Fiancee..." she whispered to his question. Though she was confused. I mean how could he not understand whom she meant

James realized he'd fucked up. A comment he'd made as a joke, something to try and make this unknown girl jealous had been taken seriously. She was thinking he might have someone else that he would leave her for and go back to. He could still feel the throbbing of his cock inside her. Still feel that tightness and softness. He couldn't tell her now that it was just a lie. She'd hate him for it... she still might whenever he told her but not right now. He swallowed, looking up at the wall behind them so as not to have to look into her eyes. "No, I don't love her anymore. I was young, I don't think I ever really knew what love was then. But I haven't seen her in a while. And I don't want to go looking for her. I'm happy with my life here."

"I mean, I haven't thought about her in a while. And I don't want to look for the life that's already behind me." He tries to give a convincing smile.

Lil watched his reactions carefully. He did not want to go look for her? What the heck was he talking about? Wasnt she dead?! She blinked a couple times and then he started to talk. Her worried face enlightened with a smile as she wrapped arms around him and passionately kissed him. She paused to kiss for a moment and whispered with a naughty smile..."Well then..." she giggled..."Have me.."

James is caught off guard by the kiss but lets himself enjoy it. He kisses her back passionately as the shock is replaced once again with desire. He looks down as she says her last words, at the spot where they are already joined. “Oh yes Lil, having you sounds like a wonderful idea.” He begins to move inside her again, letting himself all back into the pleasurable rhythm of their bodies moving against each other

7:57 AM

As he continues to do so, he feels the pressure building deep within him, he’s going to cum soon. He hopes that Lil is feeling the same.

James can feel Lil grabbing him, hanging on to him. It fuels his desire and he feels himself release, pumping wave after wave of his seed into Lil's body. It's exhilarating and thrilling and exhausting. He can feel his arms grow weak, trying to hold himself up. He lowers himself onto Lil, his chest pressing down against hers. His hand moves up to her face, brushing aside some of the sweat and hair. He gives her a kiss. Then looks at her. A thought is forming in his mind. And, after a moment, he seizes it and decides that this is what must be. "Lil, I don't just want to have you today. I want your fire to warm me through all my days. Will you marry me?"