Back to the fiction

AUTHOR: MYSTIC

FEEDBACK: Fill out the form that appears at the end of the story.

RATING: ADULTS ONLY- SEX SCENES. (also more Jimmyness that the heart can handle)

MAIN CHARACTER/S: JIMMY (Yeah!)

STATUS:Complete (Yeah!)

DISCLAIMER: Although I wish I owned a piece of "The Young Riders" I don't. All characters mentioned in this story are the property of the Odgiens/Kane Company and Ed Spielman. This story is in no way meant to demean these characters but explores another avenue of their lives that wasn't touched on in the original show. If this sort of storyline offends you please don't read it. Adults Only.

AUTHOR'S NOTE: Thank You Pandora for your support and help. I couldn't have done it without you!

PANDORA'S NOTE: Thank you Mystic but I really didn't do anything but read it and drool. I'm so honoured that you'd write this just for my site.

TO THE READERS: This is a long one so unless you have free web access, you should save it onto a disk and read it at your leisure. It might take a minute or so to download depending on your equipment

by Mystic

Rachel sat on the porch swing, enjoying the beautiful first day of summer. All chores had been completed, so there she sat taking advantage of the quiet time, which were few and far in between. The boys were out in town picking up supplies and Cody was scheduled in from his run just about any minute now.

Lou emerged from the bunkhouse. She made her way to Rachel's house but now stood in the middle of the path between the bunkhouse and the mainhouse; the rider in the horizon catching her attention. "Rider coming!" she shouted. Rachel stood from the swing and joined Lou as they both looked at the rider coming in with the speed of lightning.

"I wonder what's chasing Cody this time around?" asked Lou with a laugh, recognizing him from afar.

"Knowing Cody, who knows what kind of trouble he got himself into this time around." added Rachel laughing.

Cody soon entered the homestead, stopping his horse next to them. "Hard ride Cody?" asked Lou as she grabbed the reins of his horse.

Cody dismounted grunting from a sore back and bottom. He looked heavily tired and extremely filthy. "What happened to you?" asked Rachel looking on his dreadful appearance.

"Well, I kind a ran into a problem back there."

"So what's new?" asked Lou wryly.

He shot her a disapproving look. "Do you mind?" he asked wanting to recount his latest mishap.

He began relating his encounter with a beautiful young woman whose wagon wheel had become jammed in between two big rocks. Being the helpful soul he always sought to be, he took the time to aid this helpless beautiful woman from her plight. "So after I released the wheel she gave me a very innocent kiss on the cheek when her old husband shows up with a shotgun in hand. Needless to say, it didn't look like he wanted me to explain anything seeing I was there with his wife, so I took off quick, not wanting to become a permanent fixture in the scenary; you know what I mean?"

Rachel shook her head. "William Cody, one of these days..."

"Sorry Rachel, but I just have a soft spot for beautiful women, especially those in need of my assistance." he grinned.

Lou rolled her eyes and took the tired horse to the barn to tend to its needs.

Well, Cody in actuality told them the truth, half of it anyway. After having released the wagon successfully, the woman wanted to show her gratitude to this handsome young man whom she had been admiring all along. Her desire for him becoming ever stronger as she stood there just watching him work the wheel, his sheer strength portrayed through his young rugged body. She felt the excitement growing within her and when he approached, took it upon herself to lay on him one of the most lustful, seductive kisses he had ever had. Her hand soon found its way to his manhood and she moaned softly at the feel of his hardened member. Cody was at first taken aback at such a forward intimate encounter. It wasn't the kind of thing that happened everyday but nonetheless he obliged her desire. She was hungering for satisfaction. He could sense it from her touch, her breathing. She took his hand and lay it on her heavily breathing chest. "Take me. Right here, right now." she whispered in his ear as she kissed it. "I need you now." she emphasized once again. His own excitement grew, as the thought of being out in the middle of nowhere with a beautiful strange woman who was throwing herself at him, was almost unbearable. Just about then an old man pulled up on his horse and she identified him as her husband. The man quickly cocked his rifle, aiming it at Cody who fortunetaly was able to dodge the bullet being fired on him, jumped on his horse and quickly sped off before the old man could fire another shot. "No wonder." he had said to himself. "With an old man like that how much excitement could she had gotten?"

"Well you best go wash up." Rachel ordered. "The rest of the boys will be back soon and supper'll be ready then."

"Sounds grand." he smiled as he turned to the bunkhouse then remembering what he'd almost forgotten, turned back to Rachel.

"I almost forgot." he said, reaching into the pocket inside his jacket. He pulled out a letter. "This came for you." he said handing it to her.

"For me?" she asked puzzled as she took the piece of mail. She read the name on the envelope and looked surprised. Cody seeing her reaction was moved to ask if everything was all right? She smiled and assured him it was. "I just haven't heard from this person in years. I wonder how she found me?"

"News travels fast Rachel. Remember, we're the Pony Express." he said with a wink and headed toward the bunkhouse.

Rachel walked up to the porch and once again sat on the swing. She read the familiar name on the letter one more time just to make sure she wasn't seeing things. Just as quickly, she turned the letter over and ripped it open excitedly. She began to read.

"So here's the good news boys." she began, as she held the letter in her hand. "We'll be having a guest stay with us for the summer." she ended with a smile.

"And who might this guest be Rachel?" asked Teaspoon, as he sat at the supper table.

"Well, she's actually the daughter of a dear friend of mine. MaryAnne and I used to run the card tables back in the days. Seems that after I quit that lifestyle she did too. She got married to a wealthy businessman and lives in Boston now."

"And her daughter is coming here?...Why?" asked Cody, not comprehending why any city girl would want to come out to the uncivilized West.

"Elizabeth, just wants to come out to see me. Goodness I haven't seen her since she was about 12 years old. That was almost ten years ago. Back then she was a frumpy little girl with pigtails. Her mother says she's just gotten back all the way from Paris, France." she told them.

"And what else does she say about Elizabeth?" Cody asked curiously, realizing Elizabeth to be around their age.

"Her mother says she's a very smart, intelligent girl with a great personality."

Cody turned to Jimmy and in a low voice whispered, "Translation: Big as a house and ugly."

"Cody I heard that!" cried Rachel. "That is not true. There's more to a lady than just looks."

"That may be true Rachel. Now I'm personally all for inner beauty and all but, when a girl is described as having a great personality that usually means there's a lack in the physical attributes of beauty which I myself am very fond of." he smiled mischieviously.

Rachel just rolled her eyes, admitting to herself the truthfulness of Cody's words. "Well whatever she looks like, I expect all of you to treat her with kindness and respect. She is a refined lady not one of those saloon girls you boys are used to. She'll be arriving on the noon stage day after tomorrow. I'll need two volunteers to help me go greet her." she informed.

There was silence. The boys hated the opportunity to volunteer for anything and since that was usually the case, Teaspoon did the volunteering for them. He chose Cody and Jimmy much to their dismay, to accompany Rachel to pick up their guest in town.

Cody, Jimmy and Rachel awaited the arrival of the stage. Rachel's excitement peaked with every passing second while the boys moped around waiting for the whole ordeal to be over and done with. Rachel pointed in the distance to the stage. "Oh here it comes!" she cried.

"Okay Jimmy. Make sure you get ready for whatever horror steps off that stage." warned Cody.

"Will you give it a rest?" he replied.

"Ain't you a bit worried?" he asked Jimmy, who just shrugged. "Alright Hickok, I'll make you a deal. Being the sportin' man that I am," he said reaching into his pocket, "I'll flip this here coin. Now if it's heads you look after her the entire summer, if it's tails, the responsibility falls on me."

"Why would I want to do a fool thing like that?" he asked, as if the suggestion was completely absurd.

" 'Cause you know Rachel's gonna have us do it anyway so this way if it don't fall on you, you'll have the whole summer to thank me." argued Cody.

Jimmy knew Cody could be a con artist. He was good at tricking them into doing things that always ended up benefiting him instead. Jimmy decided to proceed in order to amuse his paranoid friend. "And if she turns out to be beautiful and it happens to fall on you, I'm gonna shoot you."

Cody dismissed Jimmy's threat with a wrinkle in the corner of his mouth and tossed the coin in the air. The two boys looked intensely at the dollar piece Cody had thrown up as it made its descent and started spinning on its edge as it hit the ground, choosing, as if their fate hung in the balance. The coin soon stopped to reveal its marked decision. It was heads. Jimmy's countenance and shoulders fell at his rotten luck while Cody gave his friend the most joyous smile.

Before they realized it, the stagecoach came to a quick halt as the Wagon Master yelled for the horses to halt, pulling tight on the reins he held. "Rock Creek!" he shouted. The passenger door opened. From hence emerged a finely dressed business man, although rather dusty from the long journey, an old woman accompanied by a small child, most likely her granddaughter. Then as if the wagon sprung about a good few inches, there came out to their eyes, a finely dressed young heavily set woman with dark hair about the age of Elizabeth. Cody and Jimmy turned around to hide their differing expressions.

Jimmy was obviously not thrilled at the prospect he would have to spend an entire summer entertaining Elizabeth. Their chatter made Rachel turn around to reprimand them on their manners. The three turned back to face their guest who was busy making sure her luggage was being carefully unloaded.

"Well Jimmy, she's all yours." grinned Cody as he patted Jimmy on the back.

Rachel straightened her dress and called her, "Elizabeth!" but the woman didn't respond and moved steadily away at the sight of her relatives. Suddenly there, having been obscured my the much heavier woman, stood a slim, well endowed young woman dressed in a sky blue fitted dress. The lacey trim around the low cut dress, drew attention to her firm breasts. Her hair was pulled from her face and fell into rows of dark shiny curls on the back of her head, down to her neck. She was striking.

"Elizabeth?" called Rachel questioningly, not wanting to make the same mistake twice. The young woman turned at the sound of her name. "Rachel?!" she cried.

"Oh my goodness!" cried Rachel as they ran to each other and engaged in a heartfelt hug.

"Let me look at you." she continued as they separated, holding unto the girl's hands, looking on her appearance. "You look just like your mother." she was moved to remark.

"And you're still as beautiful as I remember." she said with a broad smile.

"Well Cody, you were right about one thing at least." began Hickok as Cody stood there dumbfounded. "She is all mine." smiled Jimmy as he gave Cody a hefty pat on the back and walked towards the two ladies.

The two riders made their way trying to nudge each other out of the way. "Let me get that bag for you ma'am." offered Cody, who had managed to reach her first. She looked at the handsome blue-eyed, blonde headed rider and gave him a sweet smile.

"Why thank you monseuir." she said.

"Let me ma'am." said Jimmy, standing on the other side of her, snatching the bag from Cody's hand.

"Merci; thank you." she said, smiling once again, noticing the competition between the two young men.

"Boys, simmer down." reprimanded Rachel mildly. "Elizabeth, I'd like you to meet two of my riders."

"William F. Cody at your service." he said, tipping his hat but not taking his stare off her.

Jimmy interrupted, drawing her attention. "James Butler Hickok; always ready to serve." he said kissing her hand.

Her eyes met with Jimmy's and she was intrigued by him. "Well Mr. Hickok, the pleasure is all mine. It's not everyday one gets to meet a legend in the making." He blushed at her comment.

Elizabeth felt an instantaneous connection with Jimmy and by his expression she thought he felt it too.

"Okay boys, go get the rest of Elizabeth's things while we go for the buckboard." The two ladies left the boys there to handle matters.

"I really like her." smiled Jimmy, as he looked at her shapely figure from behind, letting out a hefty sigh.

"Well don't get too attached Hickok. I think after further consideration I may cast my chips into this game."

"Save them Cody. A deal is a deal." he said nudging Cody's chest with his finger.

"You're not seriously gonna hold me to that are ya?" he asked, trying to plead.

"Of course I am. Serves you right for always sticking your foot in your mouth." reprimanded Jimmy.

"Hickok...alright; but can't we at least share her?"

Cody knew the response from Jimmy's glare. There would be no sharing. Cody had made his bed and he'd have to sleep in it. Jimmy on the other hand had also made his and couldn't wait to see if by the end of the summer Elizabeth would be sharing it with him.

During lunch, Elizabeth had the pleasure of meeting the rest of the boys. Marshal Hunter was also present along with the female rider they called Lou or Louise. Elizabeth enjoyed being the center of attention as was the usual case with her. She was a very beautiful woman and she loved the male attention she received wherever she went. Flirting with men was also one of her favorite pastimes.

Her lunch with them gave her an opportunity to get to know them each better. She was informed of Lou's true identity and admired the young woman for her spunk. She also sensed, though it wasn't outwardly confirmed that the one they called Kid was romantically involved with her. 'Not a bad catch Louise.' she thought as she looked at the handsome man with short chestnut colored hair. Amazement befell her when she was informed of the Marshal who they referred to as Teaspoon had been married six times and still looked like he wouldn't mind going for a seventh. Looking at the features of the Indian that sat next to her, she admitted to herself he was quite a looker. His dark flowing hair was very sexy. Never having laid eyes on a real Indian before, she was quite pleased by the manly appearance of this one. He had a nice body, she noticed that right away and a great set of lips. Her eyes soon glanced over to the darkest rider in their midst. He had a strong manly look to him. His fierce eyes seem to penetrate anything he looked upon. His handsome face went well with his well rounded bottom which she gave a second look when they first met. She sighed to herself. 'What an interesting summer this could turn out to be.' she thought.

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After a full day of being shown around the homestead and settling in, Elizabeth retired to her room for the evening after they had all enjoyed supper. She had been able to unpack some of her things, some fancy dresses and others not so fancy, a row of shoes, undergarments, night gowns and favorite books.

On the bottom of her trunk lay her most prized possession. A wine colored leather bound journal. It had been a gift from her mother when she left for Paris. In it she wrote her most intimate, secret thoughts. Feelings and desires she would dare not share with anyone.

She picked up the diary and sitting at the vanity in the room proceeded to open it up where she had left off writing. Her last entry read: "I will be heading into Rock Creek today. I can't wait to see Rachel. She is one of the most exciting women I recall ever meeting. Her wild lifestyle almost makes me yearn for one myself. To live such a free life as she did, as she is, is what I want to experience. What will I find here that I didn't in Paris or even back home in Boston? I don't know, but the possibilities are endless and I am open to anything that'll bring me the excitement of living once again."

"Okay, so what shall we write in you now?" she asked herself, pressing the fountain pen to her lips as she gave it a moments thought. She smiled and began to pen: "My arrival in Rock Creek was a safe one. This country is so raw and wild. Rachel looks as beautiful as ever. She has a most exciting form of employment, being the Stationmistress of the Pony Express Station here. The young men that ride for the Express are a bunch of veritable stallions. I did not expect this most pleasant treat.

Marking her last sentence with an exclamation she set the diary aside and walked over to her bed where she had laid her nightgown. She picked up the garment but hearing voices outside, proceeded to the window where she peeked through he lace curtains. Down there she saw him, the gunfighter bidding goodnight to Buck, the Indian rider. He seemed to linger a bit under her window and a wicked thought came to mind. She would give him a restless night indeed.

Standing at the window her silhouetted figure highlighted by the night lamp, she began to undress. She reached behind her, undoing the zipper of her dress. Just then, Jimmy glanced up and couldn't believe the display before his eyes. He knew he should turn aside but as she proceeded to peel the dress from her body, his excitement grew. He watched intently as she stepped out of the dress and then began unlacing the strings of her corset, very sensually as if she knew she was being watched. She opened the corset which had been tied in the front, thereby releasing her voluptuous breasts, the form of which were perfectly seen through her silhouetted figure. Jimmy felt the blood rushing from the head on his shoulders to the head between his legs, a sweat beginning to build on his forehead. She then so sexually, pulled down the bloomers she wore, moving her hips from side to side bending over ever so gracefully, stepping out of them. She stood there, the shadow of her perfectly naked body revealed. Jimmy began getting hotter, the gentle breeze blowing doing little to cool his rising temperature.

Elizabeth next, took her nightgown and lifting her arms above her head, gave him one last view of her breasts and slipped the gown on. Just as quickly as the show had begun, so it ended when she leaned over and shut off the lamp. Jimmy stood there awestruck. He couldn't believe his very eyes, though they had been witnesses to the entire exhibitionist act.

"What 'cha looking at?" asked Cody as he approached, standing next to his friend. Cody looked up in the direction Jimmy's eyes seemed to be fixed. "Well?" he asked again, seeing he didn't get a response the first time.

Jimmy breaking from his trance simply said, "Ah- nothing special. Just a shooting star. Let's go to bed."

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The following morning the entire group was gathered to breakfast, except for Jimmy. The sounds of friendly conversation and laughter could be heard all the way outside. Jimmy proceeded to enter, being the last one to join the group. His eyes looked tired and his manner seemed a bit lethargic.

Kid looked up at his best friend and commented on his wearisome look. "Bad night Jimmy?" he asked.

"Just didn't get much rest that's all." he replied.

Elizabeth kept an attentive ear on this most interesting conversation while she seemed to remain focused on helping Rachel get breakfast ready.

"Something you ate?" asked Rachel from the stove.

"No it wasn't that at all. Just images going on in my head. I just couldn't get to sleep, that's all." he said, hoping they wouldn't inquire further about the matter.

Elizabeth on hearing the reason for his lack of rest, faintly smiled at herself knowing she had accomplished her purpose. She was the reason why and she loved the thought of it.

Breakfast was soon done, which consisted of eggs, bacon and something Elizabeth called French Toast. "It's really delicious." she said, bringing the readied batch to the table. "I ate it all the time while in Paris and just couldn't get enough. I thought you all might enjoy it." she smiled as she served the riders seated at the table. When she got to Jimmy, she bent forward slightly enough for him to get a good look at her cleavage which was visible from another low French cut dress. "Would you like to have some?" The thoughts going through Jimmy's head had nothing to do with food. "I'm sorry?" he replied, trying to clear his mind from the sight before his eyes.

"French toast. Would you like to have some?" she emphasized, holding the plate in front of him.

Jimmy felt rather warm under the collar and hoped no one would notice the redness in his face. Trying his best to collect himself he replied, "Sure, I would." and put two pieces on his plate. She instructed them to put the strawberry preserves and a drizzle of honey for the ultimate enjoyment. They followed the directions and ate the gourmet treat. Elizabeth was pleased that they all liked it and asked of her if she would make it again tomorrow.

The day was spent at the homestead, Elizabeth getting acclimated to her new surroundings.

Cody was being his usual helpful self, showing her the new horses Teaspoon had just purchased. Elizabeth thought Cody to be a very interesting character. His personality was very peppy and she found herself enjoying his company. Her thoughts dwelt mostly on Jimmy Hickok and the effect she knew she had had on him. She was disappointed that he left with the Marshal right after breakfast since she hoped to spend a little more time with him. For some reason he was entrenched in her mind and even though Cody was a fitting companion for the moment, she would've rather had Hickok's companionship instead.

Later that day, she sat on the porch swing with Rachel catching up on the past few years. She told of her time in Paris where she had gone to study and the different experiences she had there. Rachel caught her up on her life also. She told of her marriage to Henry Dunne and his death and how she was wanted for murder and finally how she came to be the Stationmistress of the Express. Elizabeth inquired about the boys and listened with curiosity at the story each had to tell.

As they spoke, the call from Buck rung through the homestead. "Rider Coming!" he shouted. Rachel and Elizabeth looked into the distance. "Who is it?" she asked Rachel.

"Looks like Jimmy." Elizabeth's mood seemed to brighten fourfold. She followed Rachel's lead and stepped down to meet him. He greeted the ladies as soon as he stopped, being especially happy to see Elizabeth. Rachel mentioned having some lunch ready for him, which he thanked her for and headed to the stable to tend to his horse.

"Elizabeth, you coming?" asked Rachel, nodding towards the house.

"Uhm, I'll be there in a minute Rachel." she said, as she watched Jimmy enter the barn.

Once Rachel had entered the house, Elizabeth followed Jimmy into the barn. There she found him feeding his palomino some grain. Feeling a presence at the entrance he turned to see her standing there, her hands clasped behind her. "Bonjour." she greeted. He looked at her with a slight shake of his head and shrug of his shoulder signifying his lack of understanding at the saying. Catching on she informed, "It means good day in French or more directly, hello." He blushed uncontrollaby, and returned the greeting. She walked slowly towards him like a cat eyeing its unsuspecting prey. She stood right next to him as she began to pet the horses' head.

"He's beautiful." she remarked.

"Well, if I may say, not as beautiful as you." he said blushing.

"Why, Mr. Hickok, I'm flattered. I've never been compared to a horse before." she teased.

"That's not what I meant." he added, embarrassed that his comment didn't come out the way he'd hoped.

"Then what did you mean?" she asked flirtingly, turning her full attention to him.

"Uhm...that...I meant to say...you're a very...beautiful woman." he smiled at her.

"Now that wasn't so hard was it? I thank you for the compliment."

"You're very welcome."

"Well see you at lunch." she ended, starting to walk out when he called her. She turned to him. "Yes?" she asked.

"Would you like to go to town with me tomorrow? I'd love to show you around." he hoped she would accept seeing he sort of blurted the invitation out without really thinking.

"I'd love to." she smiled seductively at him and Jimmy felt that weird feeling again. What in the world was he getting himself into? Elizabeth was glad for his gesture and could see that the spell she had cast was having a most desired effect.

That night she wrote: "I will be going into town tomorrow with Jimmy. I get the feeling that he was very much affected by my little show last night. I wonder what sort of naughty things he thought about me. Would he like to make love to me? How would he take me? Where? The thoughts excite me as well. He is a most captivating man. I look at him and feel his sex appeal through my body. Has any man ever affected me this way? I think not. I feel myself wanting to feel his touch, his lips on me. The time will come for that, I will see that it eventually does."

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Elizabeth was dressed in a flower print dress with a low cut scoop neck and elbow length sleeves. The glow she carried made her radiant under the morning sun. She waited for Jimmy on the porch swing. They were to leave early and planned on spending the entire day together. The mere thought excited her tremendously.

Cody seeing her sitting there alone, approached, a broad smile on his face. He walked up the steps and proceeded to seat himself next to her, commenting on her wears. She thanked him for the compliments and continued to ask what his plans were for the day.

"I really don't have anything planned for today but, I can accommodate a lovely lady like you. Can I talk you into a picnic by the lake?" he smiled with his beautiful eyes.

"I'm sorry Cody but I already have plans." as she said those words Jimmy pulls up in the buckboard. Cody sat there not knowing what to say. "Well will you be free later tonight?" he asked with a hint of desperation in his voice as Elizabeth walked over to the buckboard.

"I'm sorry Cody maybe another time." she responded. Jimmy had gotten down and began to help her climb on board. He looked at Cody giving him a mischevious grin in effect saying I told you not to waste your time. "We'll see you later Cody." Jimmy said teasingly as he snapped the reins, sending the horses into a gentle trot.

________________________________________________________________________

Jimmy took the more scenic route to town, passing by the large blue lake. He desired to make the best impression and the most of his time with her. She voiced her pleasure at the beautiful panorama and answered his many questions about what a place like Paris

was like? Once they reached town, Jimmy showed her what Rock Creek was all about.

"I'm afraid Rock Creek is no competition for such a place like Paris but we like it fine." he said, as they walked along.

"And that you should. I feel that every place has its own special magic touch. My, if Rock Creek were Paris, I'm afraid I wouldn't be at your side right now." she smiled.

Her comment released a cute smile from him, which she noticed right away. He hoped she meant that she wanted to be there with him and not in a mere generic sense, meaning just being there in Rock Creek.

As they continued their stroll, Elizabeth having taking possession of his arm, she received many a greetings from the men folk. Some were gentlemanly tips of hats, slight bows and simple hello's while others which came from the not so refined station proceeded with whistles and cat calls. Jimmy felt especially priviledged seeing he had her for himself. Passing by the town's cathouse, Jimmy received some special attention of his own. By the greetings, Elizabeth sensed he knew the ladies there quite well, one of which told him, "Come see me soon." She saw the embarrassed expression on his face and took the chance to tease him about it once they had passed by.

"Well Mr. Hickok, you are a very popular man aren't you? Are those the kind of women you fancy?" she asked with an innocent yet mischevious look in her eyes.

"I fancy women." he stated simply, wanting to keep an air or mystery to him. "And what kind of men do you fancy?" he asked, looking down on her and her slightly revealed breasts.

"Why Mr. Hickok, that's for me to know and for you to find out." she said, and Jimmy of course always took such a challenge to heart.

Jimmy had arranged a picnic lunch for them, which she thought, was very romantic though not letting on to the fact. They went to the lake to enjoy their meal and each other's company. Elizabeth took in the contours of his body and placed these in her memory banks. He wore a gray shirt with a brown vest and black pants. She also found the black hat he wore made him look quite sexy. The two guns strapped around his hips lay there as if they called out for danger. At times she found herself becoming hypnotized by them. When opportunities arose, she liked to stare at his rounded bottom and imaged her hands on its bareness as he made love to her. A feeling of excitement shot through her body snapping her out of her thoughts.

It was close to supper time once they got back home. He escorted her up the stairs and they stood there chatting a few minutes more. She thanked him for the lovely day and for being such a great companion. He wanted to kiss her and she felt it too. As he took a step towards her, she stopped him directly and said, "I'm sorry Jimmy, but I don't kiss on the first date." He looked disappointed since he had looked forward to it all day, but nodded understandingly. "Well do you kiss on the second?" he asked with his bad boy grin. She only smiled at him. "See you at supper Jimmy." she said, as she turned and opened the door. 'What a woman.' he thought as he looked at her from behind as she entered the house to soon disappear. He left quite pleased with the day's accomplishments and headed to care for the horses and buckboard before heading to the bunkhouse.

That evening as she sat on her bed, replaying the day's events she began to write in her diary: "The day was as wonderful as I'd hoped. Jimmy is a very intoxicating man. I almost gave in to his luscious lips when he attempted to kiss me goodbye. Oh my, did I have to use all the strength in my body to resist. The way he looks at me makes me feel that he wants me just as much as I want him. Though my body excites me every time I'm around him I cannot give in, not yet. The torture I inflict on him excites me even more. How much longer will I be able to hold on until I actually burst? I don't know but the more I think of him deep inside of me, the closer I get to wanting to fulfill my growing desire."

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The next two weeks that passed, brought Jimmy and Elizabeth closer together. They had been spending much time together and the fact didn't go unnoticed by the rest of their friends. Even though their friendship had grown tremendously, the two didn't lead on as to their feelings for each other. Their secret desires were kept hidden, not just from the other but most importantly from their nosy friends. Elizabeth had been constantly bombarded with questions by Rachel and Lou as to the state of her relationship with Jimmy. "We want to hear all the sordid details!" exclaimed Lou at one point. Much to their disappointment, there was nothing to tell. Nothing in reality had happened, although Jimmy was starting to feel a bit too comfortable putting his hands around her waist as of late.

On one occassion while she was absent from the homestead, he inquired of Rachel about her whereabouts in which Rachel informed him that she had gone to the lake. He knew she liked the view of the lake, and spent much time there, sometimes with him, most of the times alone so he wasn't surprised to hear she would be there. So, wanting to see her, he rode out to the spot on his palomino. He slowed his horse down to a trot and proceeded ahead where she would be. His eyes opened in excitement as he saw her taking a swim. The weather had been unforgivingly hot so there she was, naked in the blue water. He sat on his horse and continued to gaze on her trying to see more of the details of her body.

Suddenly she looked up and saw him sitting there, staring at her. For a moment she felt flattered but soon came back to her senses. "Jimmy?!" she cried. "What are you doing here?!"

"I was out for a ride. I didn't know you'd be out here." he lied.

"Well then, do you mind leaving?" she asked, playing hard to get.

"Actually," he said getting off his horse, "I was coming down here for a swim myself. Do you mind?" he said as he walked closer to the edge of the lake and began taking his vest off.

"James Hickok! You stay right there! Don't you dare take another step." she ordered.

"Come on Elizabeth, the lake is big enough for both of us." He loved to tease her. "Don't be a water hog!" he continued as he tossed his hat aside and began unbuttoning his shirt.

Seeing what he was doing she began to swim out further, then turned towards him again.

"I swear Jimmy, if you come in here I'll scream!" she exclaimed.

"Well who's gonna hear you all the way out here?" he reminded her.

"James Hickok, you just wait until I get out of here. I'm gonna give you a piece of..."

"a piece of what?" he interrupted, teasing her even more.

Elizabeth realizing where his thoughts lay shouted, "My mind!"

Jimmy seeing she was pretty riled up, decided to concede to her wishes and not enter, not that he was going to anyway. He merely wanted to see how far he could push. She ordered him to turn around as she made her way back. He heard her approach by the sound of splashing water. Images of her naked body ran through his mind and he ached to take a peek.

"You know, it ain't safe for you to be swimming by yourself." As he spoke, he heard her come up out of the water and began to get very aroused. She took a few quick steps past him and hid behind the tall bushes where she had her clothes.

"I wonder why that is." she responded sarcastically.

The thought of her behind those bushes with no clothes on, just a few steps away, made him bulge even more and not wanting to risk sheer embarrassment because of it, he mounted his horse to hide the evidence of his arousal, though not comfortably. When she finaly made her appearance, rambling about the dangers out West she looked surprised to see him on his horse.

"What are you doing up there?" she asked, a slight wrinkle in her brow.

"It's getting late. Let's get home." he stated.

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Jimmy's thoughts began to weigh heavily on Elizabeth. He would stay up sometimes for hours at night just thinking about her. He especially looked forward to meal time particularly when she would serve them. He liked the low cut dresses she wore and each time she leaned in to serve him, her breasts were a sight for joy. Lately his mind began dwelling more than usual on sexual thoughts about her. He began to feel a yearning for her.

"Would you like to have a piece of me?" he thought she'd asked as she leaned to serve him.

"Huh?" he asked, as if he didn't know the answer to the simple question so she repeated it.

"Would you like to have a piece of meat?" she asked once again.

"Sorry. My mind was wonderin' "

"I wonder in which direction." Cody meant her breasts and Jimmy shot him a glare which sent Cody into a quick change in conversation.

Jimmy knew that his friends realized he was attracted to Elizabeth, which was a fact Cody hated. When his turn came to go on a run, he dreaded it, knowing he'd be away from her for days at a time. She hated it also, and having to deal with Cody when he was gone was a full time job in itself. Cody had a tendency to be a bit cruder and more forward than Jimmy and on several occassions attempted to get a bit too personal with her, so she tried maintaining a safe distance.

________________________________________________________________________

The town was prepared for the summer fest they held around this time of the year and all anticipated it with great ecstasy. There would be lots of food and dancing and entertainment. Elizabeth was feeling anxious not knowing for sure if Jimmy would make it back from his run in time to attend.

"Why don't you go to the dance with Cody? I'm sure he'd love to take you." suggested Rachel.

"Ha! I'd rather go by myself than to go to that dance with Cody. He's got more hands than an octopus!" retorted Elizabeth.

"A what?" she asked.

"An octopus. You know, a sea creature with eight arms." she emphasized with a wave of her arms. Rachel understood her point, nodding. "I don't want to spend the entire evening keeping Cody's hands off of me." She let out a heavy sigh. "I just hope Jimmy gets back soon."

"You really like Jimmy, don't you?"

"Well if you must know, yes I think I do. I know I do. I miss him awful when he's gone."

"I get a feeling that he misses you an awful lot too." she smiled. Elizabeth returned the smile and hoped that he would indeed return soon.

At the dance, Elizabeth kept glancing every few minutes to see if he'd arrived. Rachel and Lou kept her occupied in conversation and she was able to meet some of the other ladies from the town. Cody of course, couldn't let the night pass by without a dance, so when he asked her she hesitantly obliged. It would be the first and only dance she'd grant William, seeing he was having difficulty keeping his hands off her hips. She danced also with the Marshal and the other riders were gentlemanly souls.

She stood aside and enjoyed watching all the others dance. Kid and Louise danced so romantically in each other's arms, Buck was quite the dancer too and she was happy to see Cody had found another dancing partner. She was struck with great curiosity as she looked on Rachel and Noah. They had spent a lot of time dancing together tonight and it seemed to her that maybe there was an attraction there. The smiles they shared, the whispering in the ears, well to her it was becoming apparent.

Her thoughts still lingered on Jimmy and his absence. She wasn't having as great of a time as she'd fooled herself into thinking, so she went outdoors to get away from the crowds of people. She took a seat on an old wooden crate and gazed up at the starry night.

"Not having a good time?" asked a voice.

"Oh no, I was..." her sentence trailed off when she met his eyes. A wide, cheerful smile appeared on her face. "You made it."

"Of course I did. Did you doubt it for one minute?" he said, a smile spread across his face.

"Well...I'm just glad you're here." Jimmy was glad to hear it. He was glad to be there with her too. He looked so handsome in his get up that she found pleasure in his appearance. The sound of another dancing tune began to play. It's soft melody being heard outside. "Dance?" he asked, holding out his hand.

"After you." she said gesturing towards the dance hall.

He shook his head. "No; here." he said. His voice had been direct and sort of controlling. Elizabeth felt a rush through her body at the tone. It didn't help much that his piercing gaze fell on her. She felt as if she were melting, once he took her in his arms. They slowly began to dance under the moonlit night and Elizabeth closed her eyes as she rested her head on his chest. Jimmy loved the closeness between them. They had never been this close before. She pulled back just slightly and looked into his beautiful brown eyes and suddenly without thinking she leaned into his lips and gave him a soft, tender kiss. Realizing what she had just done, she quickly proceeded to cover her tracks by saying, "That's for coming home safely." He simply smiled at her and they continued to dance in silence.

After getting home that night she wrote: I must be going out of my mind. Jimmy has captivated me so. When we danced tonight, the way he held me, the feel of his body against mine, conjured sensations in me that I thought were impossible. I took in the deep scent of his body and I can still smell his lingering scent on my dress. He has filled me with so much want. Am I falling in love or merely lusting for him? Love, lust whatever it is, I just know I feel so good when I'm with him. I touched his lips tonight with mine and the softness and want I saw in them sent a flood of arousal through me. The wetness I felt was sure evidence of it. I must exercise control just a little while longer. Does he share my want? My passion? Only time will tell.

________________________________________________________________________

Elizabeth had been busy helping Rachel with chores around the homestead. Today she was assigned to straighten up the bunkhouse which to her was sort of enjoyable, seeing that all the riders slept there. As she concentrated fully on her job, she couldn't help to notice the guns hanging from Jimmy's bunk. The navy colts hung there and as if they were calling out to her, she walked over and began to feel the ivory handles. Erotic thoughts began to fill her mind as she thought of Jimmy's strong hands holding on to them, firmly. As if in a trance, she pulled one of the guns from its holster and continued admiring the weapon. In a way it was seducing her, inciting, excitable feelings as she handled it, tracing its long shiny barrel.

"Do you like it?" he asked. Elizabeth jumped at the sound of Jimmy's voice. He had come in and stood right behind her. She hadn't even heard his footsteps. Her face was red from the thoughts she had been having and hoped he couldn't tell by the expression she had, what they were all about. She was speechless at first, not knowing exactly what to say. She soon regained her composure.

"They're beautiful." she remarked. Jimmy looked at her, a look of want in his eyes. He looked so sexy standing there. His hair was damp from the shower he had just taken in their makeshift shower stall. His blue shirt was unbuttoned all the way, partially revealing his smooth chest and the top button of his pants was undone. Elizabeth swallowed hard as she took in all the features of his sexiness.

He rested one arm on top of his bunk, leaning ever so slightly against it. "Tell me," he continued, "what do you like about them?" his voice was low and seductive.

Elizabeth looked into his eyes, she knew better than to do that, but once she did, he had her in his grip. She glanced back to the gun in her hand and swallowed hard once more.

She began softly. "I like the soft, smoothness of the handle, how it feels so perfect in my hands." She turned the gun from side to side staring at the ivory handle, a glaze in her eyes, as she thought of his smooth bottom so perfectly in her hands.

Jimmy at that moment began to caress her hand gently with his fingers. Elizabeth began to shiver. "What else?" he asked, almost in a whisper, as he fixed his eyes on her.

Elizabeth's inner most feelings were being conjured out of her and she was helpless trying to contain them deep inside. She continued, "I also like the way the chamber is full of bullets, ready to fire at your command. How they go forth with such power, such force until they reach their target." Naughty thoughts were indeed coming forth. Jimmy thought them also.

Jimmy continued to stroke her hand, and took another step closer to her until she could feel his breath on her. His aroma, penetrating her body. She closed her eyes, trying to stop the trembling that was developing in her. "Anything else?" he seductively asked, almost speaking in her ear.

She glanced up at him, then back to the gun, and having no control as far as her thoughts were concerned she added, in a soft tone, "I-I like the length and hardness of-of the barrel, the way it feels so firm in my hand." she said as she traced the length of the barrel between her fingers.

Jimmy was enjoying this extremely and began to get those familiar sensations. "So," he asked, "would you like me to show you how I use it?" Before she could answer, Kid, Buck and Noah entered the bunkhouse engaged in what seemed to be a heated discussion about Cody and his chores. Jimmy and Elizabeth separated immediately, not wanting to give the boys any idea of what had been going on between them.

From that instant Elizabeth knew the tables had turned. She was no longer in control. Jimmy had taken full command. Where would this all lead, she didn't know. But he was no longer the prey, it seemed now that she was.

_________________________________________________________________________

Jimmy would be home for the next few days, before his next scheduled run and she was happy for it. Being in his company was something she looked forward to everyday. Talking to him, spending time alone with him were becoming constant sources of enjoyment for her. She also loved reading to him and getting his philosophy on the way he saw life compared to what they wrote in books.

The sexual conversation that happened in the bunkhouse was not talked about, but they both felt a physical attraction to the other. Ever since that day, when they greeted each other or said their goodnights they would give share a peck on the lips when the others weren't looking, hoping that maybe it would lead to other things, but it hadn't yet. They were both apprehensive yet the desires in them were still growing and it only be a matter of time before the dynamite that had been ignited would eventually explode with a loud, resounding bang!

One afternoon, she sat on an old wagon, not in use anymore with her diary in hand. From her vantage point she could see Jimmy hard at work, chopping wood. He was shirtless and that being the case, she couldn't pass up such an opportunity to sit and admire him from afar. Watching him ever so intently, her eyes never leaving him, she began to write in her diary: "As I sit here and watch him, his body lacking the wear of a shirt, I can't help but to feel more drawn to him. The way his muscles ripple as he swings the ax, so much power, so much energy comes pouring forth. Does he wield such empowerment when he makes love? Does his body thrust with such manly force so as to satisfy the desire of wanting women? My desire? As I look upon him, I can't deny the feelings I have. He has made me fall in love with him and I am as helpless as a babe. Does he realize what he has done to me? A strong woman I used to be, now strong I'm not. I've been weakened by his words, his stare, his simple touch. He is beautiful. I feel the way he undresses me, piece by piece as he looks on me with those sexual orbs. Does it give him pleasure to think of my nakedness. My want also increases with each passing day. Jimmy, will you ever make love to me?"

"Elizabeth...Elizabeth!" called Rachel, as she stood by her. Elizabeth was snapped out of her writing, somewhat embarrassed that she hadn't responded to Rachel's calls.

"I'm sorry Rachel. I was concentrating on my writing." she said, apologizing.

"I can certainly see that. Whatever it was you were writing sure had your mind fixed. I had to call you about four times!" she exclaimed.

"I'm sorry. When I get to writing, I just shut out everything around me." she explained.

Rachel shook her head and had to smile. "Anyway, I've got to run over to town with Noah to pick up a few things. Do you want to come along?"

"I don't think so Rachel." she said wrinkling her nose. "I'd rather stay here."

"Alright then. But I've got a bunch of potatoes in the kitchen that I could sure use some help peeling. Jimmy said he would get started on them, so if you don't mind giving him a hand I'd really appreciate it."

Elizabeth of course agreed, seeing she would have the best company on the homestead to work along with. "Oh and before I forget, could you please go to the bunkhouse and grab the list of supplies that Lou left me while I go help Noah get the mares ready."

"Sure Rachel." she said. Soon Rachel left her presence and she began to write once again: "My suspicions about Rachel and Noah have been confirmed. She finds any chance she can to be alone with him. Right now she heads to the stables to be with him. An affair for a certainty they're having. Not that I can blame Rachel. Noah is a very handsome man and if I must add, the stories that I've been told about black men and how well endowed they are...let's just say, they are very satisfying creatures. My suspicions were all put aside when the night after the dance, while everyone slept, except me of course, I saw him outside from my window heading towards the house. A minute later, the door opened and footsteps started up the stairs. Her door opened and then the rest is history. The sounds of their love-making I could hear and it just made me yearn more for what I could not have. A night with Jimmy in bed. And with that final sentence she jumped down from the old wagon and proceeded to the bunkhouse.

She reached the bunkhouse and set her diary down, as she looked for the slip of paper Rachel told her would be on the table. It was not. She began to search for it under the table, under the seats until she finally caught sight of it and picking it up, bumped her head on the table as she heard Rachel's calls for her to hurry up. With the list in hand she headed out of the bunkhouse towards the buckboard where Noah sat in the driver's seat next to Rachel. "Here you go." she said handing Rachel the list while rubbing the top of her head.

"What happened?" asked Rachel, noticing she was rubbing her head.

"I bumped my head on that stupid table. Oh did that hurt."

"Well you better go get some cold rags to put on top before it turns into an ugly bump." she advised her as she felt the top of her head. "Now." she commanded. Elizabeth rolled her eyes and proceeded to the house to do as she was told.

As she left to tend to her head, Jimmy having finished chopping enough wood to last forever, entered the bunkhouse to grab a towel after having dunked his head in the cold water to cool off. After drying off, he noticed the journal that was on the table. He hadn't seen it before and was sure it didn't belong to any of them. He picked it up and saw the name engraved on the bottom right hand corner: Elizabeth Morgan. He passed a hand over his mouth. He knew journals were very personal things and he had no right to read what it contained but his curiosity was killing him. He wanted to know if she had anything written in there about him. So, taking a look outside the window to make sure no one was coming, he opened to a random page. It said: "As I took my swim in the cool waters, my mind thought of nothing else but him. Would he enjoy being here with me right now? His naked body next to mine? As I thought this, my desires must have been heard by him for he sat there in a moments time upon his horse, looking, staring at me. The sense of excitement I felt was overwhelming although I did not make it known. I could feel him calling me, wanting me just as much as I wanted him. Did the thought of my nakedness arouse him? Could it be he is holding back his passion from me? Torturing me with his pure seductive powers? Jimmy Hickok, do you want to make love to me?"

Jimmy couldn't believe what he had just read. But there it was in black and white. He recalled that day perfectly in his mind. The day he'd caught her at the lake. She wanted him just as much as he wanted her. Why didn't she let on? He guessed she had in her own way, but he had let his reservations get the best of him. Her words aroused him, a deep feeling of want developing in him as he answered the question referred to him with a resounding: Yes! He did indeed want to make love to her. More than she knew. His thoughts were cut short as he saw Elizabeth heading towards the bunkhouse. He quickly closed the journal and set it on the table where it had been. He jumped on his bunk trying to play asleep, his hat over his face. A few seconds later she entered.

"Oh, I'm sorry Jimmy. I didn't know you were in here. I forgot my journal." she said, as she picked up the book.

He leaned up on his elbows and said, "It's alright. I was gettin' up anyway."

"Good, because we need to go peel potatoes." Her reminder induced a grimace from him.

"Oh come on you. It's not that bad. Besides, I think it'll be kind of fun." she said.

"Fun?" he asked wryly, jumping off the bunk. "If you say so."

As they walked towards the house, a sudden thought hit her. She turned to him and holding her diary up to him asked, "You didn't look in here did you?"

Jimmy kept cool and collected. "I didn't even notice it was there." he responded.

She gave him an alright I believe you look, and they continued on to the house.

_________________________________________________________________________

The basket full of potatoes lay on the table. Jimmy lifted the basket and carried it over to the sink, setting it on the floor. He took one of Rachel's small cutting knives and handed Elizabeth a funny looking tool that she had no idea what she was supposed to do with. "You ever used one of those?" he asked, nodding at the tool in her hand.

"What is it? And what am I supposed to do with it?" she asked, looking strangely on it.

He took it from her hand. "It's called a potato peeler. Rachel says it makes peeling the potatoes faster." he stated.

"Well how come you're not using it?" she raised her brows at him.

"Because I like to do it the old-fashioned way." he said flirtingly. "Now, are you sure you won't hurt yourself with this?" he asked, holding the peeler up to her.

She rolled her eyes and snatching the peeler from him said, "Give me that!" she smiled.

Jimmy smiled at her and they began to peel the mounds of potatoes that stared them in the face. While they were busy at this chore, they spent time talking and laughing and after a few minutes the task didn't seem so tedious afterall. Jimmy was getting a kick watching Elizabeth trying to get a handle using the new instrument he'd introduced her to as they stood at the sink peeling potatoes. Somehow she just couldn't get the right flowing motion from the darn thing to peel the potatoes right and found poking herself more than she'd care for. Jimmy's chuckles finally got to her.

"I'm glad you're finding this so very amusing. Is Rachel sure this thing works?" she said holding the peeler up to him.

"Careful with that! That's a dangerous weapon." he teased.

"Well if you're a good boy then I won't have to use it on you."

"You know, Kid uses that thing all the time, I'm sure it works fine." he reassured her.

"Then I'd like to see you try it." she said, handing him the peeler.

Jimmy smiled to himself, sensing a golden opportunity. "Better yet, how about I show you how to use it."

"Suit yourself." she answered wryly.

All of a sudden, Jimmy stepped behind her, his body dangerously close to hers. He placed his arms around her waist, his hands now directly in front of her body. Elizabeth felt a wild shiver run down her back to her legs. She focused on his strong hands as one reached for the brown spud while the other held the tool. He began to smell the sweet scent of her, bringing his nose ever so close to her neck. He began speaking to her in a soft tone and Elizabeth closed her eyes as her body responded to his seduction.

"You take the tool in your hand and hold on to it firmly, then having your potato in the other hand, you bring them together until the peeler is pressing hard against it and then in one firm, swift motion, you stroke it, like this..." he began to whisper in her ear, "over and over." Elizabeth's heart felt as if it were going to stop at any minute from the fierce, rapid pounding it was doing. She began to feel a sweat build on her forehead as the heat in the kitchen intensified. Jimmy took another small step closer to her and she knew that he was very much aroused. Elizabeth had never been in this sort of situation before, she was always the one in command now she didn't know what to do. She enjoyed his seduction too much to put a stop to it. He set the contents in his hand down in the sink, wiped his hands on his pants and gently rested his hands on her waist giving her a soft wanting squeeze. Elizabeth's breathing became much heavier and he could feel the intensity of every breath she took as he brought one hand over her abdomen, feeling her stomach, getting ever more excited by her reactions.

The intensity in the room was great as Elizabeth felt his body now pressed on hers. There wasn't anything she could do now to stop what she knew would happen. Her room was just up the stairs and she wanted him there with her.

"I want you Elizabeth." he whispered in her ear as he took the small dangling earring she wore into his mouth and the feel of his tongue on her earlobe brought another flood of juices running through her body. She braced herself against the sink, feeling as though she was about to collapse. Jimmy couldn't help but to think on the words she'd written in her diary. How she spoke about him and the way she really felt about him. Those thoughts gave him the confidence he now possessed to proceed with his seducing actions. With the gentle touch of one finger on her chin, he turned her face to his, leaning her head back ever so slightly. His lips were close but not touching and his breath fell heavy on her. She looked at his lips wantingly and before she could think he began to take her bottom lip ever so seductively in between his. The move was one full of lust and she didn't hesitate to give in to his command. He captured her mouth administering a full, wet, passionate kiss as her fingers played in his hair. She kissed him back just as fervently. Jimmy sensed the time was right. He was ready and so was she. They separated from their kiss; she leaned into him and they looked at each other as if they both had the same thought in mind. They wanted to feel their union now more than anything.

"Cody, I'm telling you, you can't just keep running off without doing your share of the chores!" cried Kid as he and Buck followed Cody into the house.

"I did do my share Kid, I don't see why y'all are always bothering me about chores and more chores!" Cody shot back.

The sudden flow of non-invited guests that entered the house sent such a fierce shrill through Elizabeth that the mere shock at seeing them induced her to swallow the wrong way and she began to cough uncontrollably.

Jimmy at once, ran for a glass and started to pour water from a pitcher as Kid who had come over to them to see if she was all right, helped her to sit down. Her heart was still racing, not just from what had happened between her and Jimmy but from the prospects of almost getting caught. She took the glass of water with trembling hands.

"Are you sure you're okay Elizabeth? You look pale." noticed Kid. She assured them she was fine once again.

"What happened Jimmy?" asked Buck.

He shrugged. "I don't know. She was just fine a minute ago." he said looking at her, hiding what had taken place just moments ago.

"You sure you're not coming down with something? Kid's right. You don't look like yourself." added Cody. He was right. Her face was extremely flushed and the look in her eyes told them something wasn't quite right.

"I'll be fine." she said somewhat hoarsely as she regained her voice.

"If you say so." said Cody.

"I think I just better go lay down for a spell. It must be the heat in here." she said, glancing up at Jimmy. She rose from her seat when Cody told her he had something for her. He reached into his back pocket and handed her a letter. She took it and read the name of the sender. A deep wrinkle appeared in her brow. Then a look of sadness in her eyes as it seemed she were about to cry.

"Is everything okay?" asked Jimmy noticing her change in demeanor.

"I'm sorry." she said trying to hold back the tears. Without warning, she ran up the stairs to her room. The boys heard her door open and then slam with great force.

They looked at each other puzzled. "What was that all about?" asked Kid. Buck and Jimmy simply shook their heads. Cody on the other hand offered his opinion. "Must be the person who sent her that there letter that got her so upset."

"And how would you know that?" asked Kid.

"Just a hunch. I mean it was addressed by a Charles Montgomery, and by that reaction he can only mean one thing. Trouble."

________________________________________________________________________

"Elizabeth...Can I come in?" called Rachel after a soft rap on the door. Elizabeth sat on a chair by the window looking into the distance. Rachel's knock brought her out of her thoughts and she responded, as she looked at the door, "Come in."

Rachel entered, and walked over to her as she sat there, looking out her window as if she were staring back into her past. She held the opened letter in her hand and from her profile, Rachel could tell she had been crying.

"Want to talk about what's wrong? The boys told me you were upset." Elizabeth didn't respond. Being informed by the boys of her unusual reaction to the letter, Rachel decided it was best just to point to the fact directly. She nodded at the letter and said, "Are you upset because of that letter? Is everything okay back home with your mother? Your father?"

Elizabeth looked up at her friend, a tear stained face giving away a hint of the feelings she was dealing with. "It has nothing to do with my folks."

"Then what is it?" asked Rachel concerned. Elizabeth handed her friend the letter and nodded for Rachel to read it. It said:

"Wow, what a letter." was Rachel's response after she finished. She could see why such a letter would touch Elizabeth in such a deep manner. Still, questions lingered in her head.

"Who is Charles, Elizabeth?" she had the courage to ask.

Elizabeth rose from her seat at the window letting out a hard sigh. She walked to the middle of the room, as Rachel's eyes followed her. She turned to her friend and said, "Charles is...was my fiancee. We were engaged to be married."

Rachel took the seat by the window and continued her inquiry. "Married? What happened?"

Elizabeth walked back to Rachel and kneeling at her feet began to explain the details of her relationship with Charles. They had met over a year ago when her father was on business in Charleston. Charles was immediately taken with her, and his charms were enough for her to fall in love with him, even though he was a man ten years her senior. She loved everything about him except for the fact that he owned and lived on a plantation. She went on to explain how she never understood how awful slavery was until she visited his home and saw how miserable the lot of the slaves was. Even though Charles treated his slaves well according to southern standards, it wasn't enough. Deep inside she couldn't be a part of such a dispicable thing as owning slaves, which is exactly what she would be, a slave owner, once she married Charles. He tried convincing her otherwise but she wouldn't have it and she called the engagement off and soon after left for Paris. Now she knew that her running away from Charles didn't dispel the feelings she still had for him. But now things were even more complicated. Jimmy had entered the picture and she had strong feelings for him too. She loved him yet a part of her still clung to Charles.

"I have to go see him Rachel. I have to come to terms with my feelings for Charles. I know I care for him still but I don't know if I'm in love with him anymore. Everything is so confusing now. I didn't mean to fall for anyone when I came here but now I find myself in that situation. I have fallen for Jimmy but I haven't let go of Charles completely. I have to resolve this and there's only one way to do that. I have to go to Fort Laramie."

Rachel understood Elizabeth's confusion. A heart divided in two is no way to love a man. She would have to choose one or the other if she wanted to be happy and make the one she loved happy.

After supper that evening, Elizabeth decided it was time to lay all the cards on the table for Jimmy. She didn't know what his response would be but she had to be honest with him, though it scared her to death. He deserved that much.

They took a walk around the homestead as she began her confession. "That letter I received today," she paused, not knowing exactly how to say the words, "the reason why it upset me so is because...Charles Montgomery was to become my husband."

"Your husband?" he asked, a wrinkle in his brow.

"Yes. He was my fiancee. I broke the engagement before I left for Paris. I couldn't live the life he expected me to live once we married. So I ran away I guess, but I didn't run far enough because...I think I still have feelings for him."

Jimmy was not happy by this revelation and she could see it in his eyes. "You think?" he said harshly. "What the hell is that supposed to mean?"

"Please don't be mad at me Jimmy. I never meant..."

"What?" he interrupted. "You never meant for what happened between us to happen? Is that what you're saying?"

"No. I wouldn't change anything."

"So, so what was I then? Just some fling on the side that you thought you could have until you decided what you wanted?" he shot at her.

"Not at all! I mean it might've started like that but that's not the way it is now."

"How is it now then?"

"I don't know Jimmy. I can't explain it. I'm all confused."

Jimmy felt humiliated and like a total fool for letting her get to him the way she did. "Well I'm sorry to hear that Elizabeth. Until you get unconfused, I don't think I have anything I want to say to you right now." With those harsh words, Jimmy left. Elizabeth stood there as he walked away, her tears turning into sounds of sobbing. Did he walk out of her life for good? "I can't let you Jimmy. I can't." she whispered.

_________________________________________________________________________

The next two days were almost unbearable. Jimmy and Elizabeth hardly spoke to each other although she had tried on several occassions to talk to him about the situation. She entered the bunkhouse where the boys had been engaged in a game of poker, Kid having all the luck on this afternoon. Jimmy seeing her, at once folded his hand and sat up to get his hat and guns, not acknowledging her presence with the hello's that had greeted her.

The tension between the two had built to a crescendo and it was enough for Elizabeth. She decided to let out her frustration. "Where do you think you're going? Do you feel a need to leave a room every time I enter?" she asked directly. He looked past her, not replying as he secured his gunbelt. The players at the table glanced from one to the other, to the two people engaged in this battle and down to their cards. They said nothing. Jimmy placed his hat on his head and left. Elizabeth's blood was at its boiling point. He wasn't getting off easy this time. She turned at once and followed after him.

"Jimmy, I'm talking to you!" she shouted. He continued his stride without missing one step and headed towards the barn.

"Talk about sexual tension between those two. I wish they'd just get it over with so we can finally have some peace around here. If I were Jimmy I would a done so a long time ago."

"Shut up and play Cody." came a mild reprimand from Kid.

Jimmy grabbed his saddle and fairly threw it upon the horse. He still hadn't said one word to her. "You can't ignore me forever! You know you're not the only one that this has been hard on. I never meant to hurt you Jimmy but you've got to understand. I have to do this.

I have to see Charles if I want to get my life back again. Please Jimmy, I'm leaving in the morning, I don't want us to part like this." she pleaded softly.

What did she want him to say? he thought. 'Good luck with your boyfriend?' He couldn't say anything that would make him or her feel any better.

"Well? Say something?!" she emphatically demanded.

"Have a safe trip Elizabeth." he said with a tone that sought to cause her injury and it had. His words hurt her deeply and she finally gave up trying.

"Fine!" she cried. "If this is the way you want to handle things I will most certainly accommodate you." she told him. So she left, upset, tears in her eyes as she headed to the house to pack the rest of the things for her trip.

_________________________________________________________________________

Seeing the devestation they were both experiencing, Rachel made a slight change in plans. Instead of having Kid escort Elizabeth to Fort Laramie as it was originally planned, Kid was dispatched on an "emergency" run by Teaspoon which left Noah, Buck and Jimmy to do the honors. Buck had just gotten back from a run yesterday, Noah was up next and couldn't be spared, Cody had already left for his run this morning and Lou was still out. So, the only viable one left was Jimmy who protested fiercely at having been made to go on this torturous trip. The idea of traveling with Elizabeth three days to the Fort and three days back home was too much favoring to be asking from him. Rachel though didn't budge from the decision. She knew that this was exactly what they needed. Time alone to sort their feelings out.

"Jimmy?! I'm not going with Jimmy." Elizabeth protested. "Rachel, he hates me."

Rachel chuckled. "He doesn't hate you. Jimmy is just strong-willed at times and doesn't like to be challenged in any way. But I know him and I know he cares for you a lot."

"I don't know Rachel, that's a mighty long trip. We may end up killing each other before it's all over." she added.

"I doubt that very much. At least this will give you two a chance to air some things out."

Elizabeth considered the possibility that maybe things would turn out for the better and conceded to the decision.

_________________________________________________________________________

"Have a safe trip." said Teaspoon as he helped Elizabeth unto the buckboard.

"Thank you." she replied.

"Now Hickok, you make sure you take good care of Elizabeth here." added Teaspoon. Jimmy only nodded, a smirk on his face. They bid farewell and then were on their way.

Jimmy and Elizabeth did not speak at all. They rode in silence. The only sounds between them were the sounds of the wagon, the horses' footsteps and the chirping birds. Elizabeth's head had been turned to her right the entire way and soon felt her neck starting to tense up. Jimmy ached to talk to her but his stubbornness was just as bad as hers. She wasn't kidding either when she told him she'd accommodate him if he preferred not to talk to her and she did just that; she didn't say a word to him.

She closed her eyes and began to massage her neck, moving her head from side to side, back and forth, exposing her beautiful neck as her lips parted slightly. Jimmy looked at her beautiful features and the massage she was giving herself was very sensual to his eyes. As he enjoyed her display, he took his eyes off the road, and the wagon suddenly tilted to her side. She instinctively braced herself as her eyes flew open.

"What happened?" she asked looking down on the wagon wheels.

"I don't know. I'll go take a look." Jimmy jumped down and walked to the rear of the buckboard where the right wheel had become jammed in a rock pile. He shook his head in disgust not believing this unfortunate turn in events. Elizabeth got down after a few seconds and joined him.

"How did that happen?" she asked placing her hands on her hips, as she looked at the wheel.

"It just happens sometimes. These roads do have rocks on them you know." he replied sarcastically.

"I know that, but that's not what happened was it?" she said, noticing they had wondered a bit off the main road. "You weren't watching where you were going." she accused.

"I was." he said embarrassed.

"I'm sure." she added with a smirk but inside she was smiling happily knowing that his eyes had been fixed on her and not the road.

"Well I better go find something to help us pry it out of there."

"Whatever." she said wryly, rolling her eyes and walked off to sit on an a small boulder.

Jimmy left to seek the tree limb to help levy the wheel and after awhile came back to see Elizabeth was nowhere to be found. He began to call for her calmly at first then not hearing a response, he began to shout more frantically as he looked around for her.

"What?!" she cried, as she emerged from the trees.

"Where were you?" he asked her angrily.

She carried a bucket in her hand. "I went to get some water for the horses. There's a river down there not too far." she said as she walked to the horses to give them a drink.

"I know that. You shouldn't be running off by yourself anyway." he scolded.

"Why Jimmy, I'd think that by the way you were calling for me you still cared."

"Well I wouldn't want Charles to be upset if I didn't get you to Fort Laramie in one piece now would I?" he said. Elizabeth just rolled her eyes not deeming such a question worthy of a response.

Jimmy spent the next half-hour trying to adjust the tree limb in a way to help the wheel come undone from the rocks that held it in place. Elizabeth becoming impatient at how long this was all taking, walked over to him and asked, "How much longer is this going to take?" her arms crossed across her chest.

Jimmy looked up at her with a sweat soaked face. He stood up, annoyed that she hadn't even offered to help and shot her an angered look. "Well if maybe I had an extra hand, we would've been gone a long time ago!" he shouted that last bit.

"Well then Mr. Hickok, I suggest you start growing another one!" she shot back and walked away.

Jimmy clenched his fists in frustration. 'Damn it!' he thought. He wanted to grab her and kiss her and at the same time he wanted to kill her.

Elizabeth left Jimmy to care for the buckboard by himself seeing she was still upset with his lack of concern for their relationship. She headed back down to the river to calm her nerves and try to take her mind off Hickok. She stayed down there for quite awhile enjoying the rapidly flowing water. Taking off her shoes, she decided to walk on the rocks that potruded out of the water, standing as if she were almost in the river. Suddenly Jimmy heard what sounded like loud screams. He dropped what he was doing and ran down to the river where the screams came from. His heart beat uncontrollably as thoughts of Elizabeth in danger flashed across his head. In a moment's time he was there and saw her battling hard against the torrents of the river. She cried for him as she tried to swim back to shore but the current was much too strong for her. Jimmy yelled for her to hold on and try swimming to him as he followed her on the edge of the river, coaching her. Elizabeth fought with all her might but it just wasn't helping. She was swallowing more water and soon began to tire. In one last ditch effort to save her, Jimmy ran down ahead of her, and grabbing a tree limb, ran into the water extending it out so she could hopefully grab on to it and he could pull her in. Elizabeth seeing him in the water holding the safety device, used her last bit of strength and successfully grabbed the limb. Jimmy pulled her in to the shallow end of the river, as she began to crawl to the edge. He extended his hand to her and in one swooping motion she pulled him in the water making him fall next to her.

"You...you...I can't believe you were going to let me drown!" she cried, as she coughed. "Why didn't you jump in after me?!" she asked as she sat in the knee-deep water, wiping her hair from her face as she looked at him for a response.

He looked so adorable she thought as he sat next to her, his clothes now soaked from the waters of the river. He looked at her somewhat embarrassed. "I know I should've jumped in after you. But...I can't swim." he added hesitantly. "I'm sorry Elizabeth." he looked away sheepishly.

The contradiction hit her like a bolt of lightning. Here next to her sat a, strong, tough, gunfighter that cannot swim? The thought was too much for her to bear and she began

chuckling and then laughing. Jimmy didn't blame her for such a reaction. It had been a common one among his friends and he had thought the same thoughts she now had probably a thousand times.

"I'm sorry Jimmy, I just figured you could always swim." she said, subsisting with teary eyes from her laughter.

"Well now you know the truth." he humbly said. Elizabeth, seeing him smile at her for the first time in days, broke a small smile at him too as he looked at her thinking how beautiful she was. Strands of her dark hair stuck to her face as her brown eyes pierced through him, calling to him to kiss her. He raised his hand, as they sat in the waters and gently began to move the hair from her face with his fingers. Elizabeth felt shivers from his touch. The reaction was proof enough that she wanted to be with him. She wanted him to love her and she wanted to share her love with him.

"You're so beautiful." he said softly. Jimmy couldn't fight the fact of what he was feeling. He wanted her, more than anything. True he wasn't happy with the latest chapter in their relationship but Fort Laramie was still two days away. Why was he pushing her into the arms of another man when she obviously wanted to be with him? They had almost made love just a few days ago. Things hadn't changed that much. The attraction between them was an overwhelming one. All he could think was, that she belonged to him for the next two days so he would need to make the best of their waning time together and that he was now determined to do.

The palm of his right hand rested on the side of her face and Elizabeth rubbed her face against it enjoying the feel of his strong hand. She turned her face into his palm and began kissing it softly and wantingly. Jimmy traced his hand from the side of her face, his fingers crossing her full lips, down to her neck and began leaning in to her to secure her mouth.

"You kids all right?" startled a man on horseback from the edge of the river.

Jimmy and Elizabeth looked at each other and shared a smile. He helped her to her feet and they headed towards the friendly stranger. "We just had a little accident." he informed.

"You kids need to be careful down this here river. She's a fierce one." They nodded in agreement. "Thanks for the warning." smiled Elizabeth.

The older man noticing their lack of horses inquired of them about their mounts leading Jimmy to fill him in on the unfortunate circumstance of their mode of transportation at the time. The man offered them a hand with the wagon and soon enough they were back in business. He made them to stay over at his home which they thanked him several times for. "Tomorrow you can be back on your way if you'd like. Give you and your horses a chance to rest up. Besides, the Mrs. would love to see some new faces. We don't get too many visitors down our place."

Jimmy and Elizabeth enjoyed the company of the two older people who seemed so happy together after 30 years of marriage. The two wondered if they could ever find such happiness with someone. During supper they informed they were headed to Fort Laramie to see "a relative." interjected Elizabeth, not wanting to spoil their evening with the kind couple. They had been very generous providing them with a hot bath, a meal and of course a place to sleep. Taking it for granted that the two young people were married and the fact escaping Jimmy's and Elizabeth's notice until it was too late, the older couple directed them to the spare bedroom and bid them goodnight.

"Jimmy," she whispered, once inside the room, "we can't do this. They think we're married."

"I realized that when they showed us the room with the one bed." he smiled.

"Why didn't you say something?" she asked, wondering what his response would be.

"What? And ruin the opportunity to call you Mrs. Hickok for one night?" he said mischieviously. "Now," he said approaching her, "didn't you bring something special to wear to bed tonight?"

She was flabbergasted at the mere thought. "You're terrible!" she cried in a whisper as she smiled at him. "We are not sleeping in the same bed together."

"Why not? We almost did the other day." he said as he began caressing her arms.

Elizabeth felt she was beginning to weaken. She slapped his hand away and walked to the other side of the room. "That was different. Besides, it wouldn't be right if you know...we were to...anyway, they think we're married and since we're not, I'd rather not betray their trust in us."

"You're kidding right?"

"I'm certainly not." she stood her ground as she walked over to grab the quilts that rested on the arm of a chair. "You are sleeping on the floor tonight."

"Come on Elizabeth. Okay, I promise I'll keep my hands to myself." he said with an angelic look in his eyes.

"It's not you I'm worried about." she responded devilishly. He blushed at the thought as he watched her set the quilts next to the bed on the floor and set a pillow with them.

"There. Looks comfortable enough." she smiled at him. Jimmy just let out a loud sigh and decided against pushing the issue any further seeing he wasn't going to get his way, not tonight anyway.

She had him turn around as she changed into her night dress and she did the same when he had to change his clothes. She was getting aroused just from imagining the different parts of his attire come undone. The sounds of his gunbelts hitting the wooden floor, the sound of boots being tossed aside, the sound of the zipper on his pants, the faint rustling of the shirt being untucked from his pants. Yes, they were sensual in themselves as she sat on the bed, a blanket over her, listening intently to every sound. She bit her lip to control the flow of excitement she was feeling and tried to make small talk about their trip in the morning.

Once he was done, he laid down on the quilts next to her bed. He bid her a goodnight's rest not seeing how in the world that would be a possibility for him. Before turning out the lamp she grabbed her diary as she sat up in the bed and began writing:

"How come you write in that thing all the time?" his question startled her, cutting into her thoughts.

"I thought you were going to sleep!" she exclaimed, blushing heartily, trying to slow down the beating drum of her heart. He looked so sexy under the dimmed light in the room, a warm look in his eyes. He rested his chin on his forearm as he leaned against the edge of the bed. She tore her stare from him and returned to her writing saying, "Don't worry. I won't be much longer."

"What is it about diaries that women find a need to write in them. I never understood that. Isn't just what you have in your head enough for you?"

"I thought so at one time but, memories tend to fade with the help of time. When you write your feelings, your dreams down in ink, they're preserved for a lifetime. Words never fade they remain forever. There's a beautiful sonnet by Shakespeare that I've written in here. He felt the same way as I do about time and memories. How time ravages everything, even powerful things like stone and brass and he wonders how beautiful things that are so delicate can survive. He then concludes that maybe it's possible to preserve beauty with ink. Can I read it to you?" she asked, turning to the page. He nodded, looking at her beautiful face. She began:

"Since brass, nor stone, nor earth, nor boundless sea,

But sad mortality o'ersways their power

How with this rage shall beauty hold a plea

Whose action is no stronger than a flower?

O how shall Summer's Honey Breath hold out

Against the wrackful siege of battering days,

When rocks impregnable are not so stout

Nor gates of steel so strong, but Time decays?

O fearful meditation! Where, alack,

Shall Time's best jewel from Time's chest be hid?

Or what strong hand can hold his swift foot back?

Or who his spoil of beauty can forbid?

O, none, unless this miracle have might,

That in black ink my love may still shine bright."

"Isn't it beautiful?" she asked, looking at him.

"I guess I never thought about it like that." he admitted.

"Every time I read it, it makes me appreciate the value of writing my experiences on paper. I can always look into my past as if it were today and make time stand still.

"So then,..." he began, "what were you writing about?" he thought he'd ask.

She shot him an awed look as if she couldn't believe he actually wanted her to tell him.

"That is none of your business." she replied with half a smile.

"Well then, is there anything about me in there?" he continued to tease for he already knew the answer to that.

She shook her head in disbelief and closed her diary. "Goodnight Jimmy." she added, setting her diary on the nightstand and turning out the lamp. "Goodnight Elizabeth." he responded sweetly.

About an hour passed by and Elizabeth lay in bed unable to sleep. The light of the silvery moon shone through the window and she could see the beautifully, perfectly rounded creation in the starry heavens. There was another beautiful creation that occupied her thoughts--Jimmy. The thought of him sleeping just a few feet away, kept her mind awake.

She turned over and slid to the empty side of the bed, leaning over the edge as she looked down on him. His back was towards her, so she couldn't get a look of his face.

"Jimmy." she whispered. "Jimmy; are you sleeping?" she asked softly. He gave no answer.

'He must be exhausted.' she thought. His long hair covered the side of his face and with a gentle finger she reached over and moved the hair from his face. 'He is so beautiful.' she said inwardly. She raised herself on her elbow, leaning slightly over to see if he stirred any but she could see he was fast asleep. She lay back down on her side, her head resting on her bent arm and continued to gaze on his handsome features. "I love you Jimmy." she confessed softly and then returned to her spot on the other side of the bed.

Jimmy opened his eyes as soon as he heard her turn over. He had been awake the entire time but was able to maintain his pretense. He couldn't help but feel a sense of happiness and joy to hear such a confession from her. She loved him and that was enough for him even if things were to never work out for them, he knew she did love him.

_________________________________________________________________________

Day number two began better than day one. They rose early that morning, enjoyed

breakfast with their new friends and thanked then once again for their kind help and hospitality. The horses had been rested, fed and the buckboard ready to continue the trip to Fort Laramie.

The older woman's last words to Elizabeth, stuck with her for the remainder of the day. She told Elizabeth just before they left, "You and Jimmy have something very special together. Guard it close to your heart, for true love is a difficult thing to find. Remember, love each other without reservations...always."

As they rode along, those words kept playing in her head constantly. She had indeed found something special with Jimmy. Something that even Charles with all of his money wasn't able to offer her. True contentment. Though she realized this to be a fact, Charles' grip on her was still strong. She felt guilty having such strong feelings for any other man besides him. Charles had always been good to her. He gave her extraordinary attention and catered to her like royalty. She had fallen for his tenderness, his care, his wit. He was indeed still special to her; her first love. But could she take the good with the bad? The answer at present had already been revealed to her and it was no. The bad outweighed the good and she wouldn't be able to live with herself if she compromised her beliefs to have him. She felt misery would become a constant companion.

They arrived late that afternoon to the next town. "I sure could use a hot bath." she mentioned as Jimmy helped her off the wagon. He smiled at the thoughts going through his head but pushed them aside for now.

"Let's go check in at the hotel first, then I have to go take the horses and buckboard to the livery stable for the night." he told her.

They walked into the foyer of the hotel and were immediately greeted by a smiling woman, one Jimmy didn't recognize from his many stays there. The woman stood behind the clerk's desk and after approaching, Jimmy began to inquire about two rooms but was abruptly cut off before he could finish his request of needing two rooms. The woman in her lively manner gazed upon the young couple and assumed the same as the older couple--that they were married; newlyweds.

"You're just in luck." she blurted, enthusiastically. "You've gotten our last room."

"Last...room?" Elizabeth repeated dumbfounded.

"Why yes, with the cattle owners convention going on this entire week, we're booked solid. This room became available just an hour ago and wouldn't luck be smilin' on your happily married faces. I tell you I can spy newlyweds a mile away." She added with a softer tone, "I will personally see to it that your stay is enjoyable and that you are not disturbed."

"Is it that obvious?" Elizabeth asked with mild sarcasm.

"Oh don't be embarrassed dear. It's only the glowing look of a brand new bride." The woman then leaned to whisper in Elizabeth's ear as she glanced over at Jimmy. "I'd have the same look if I had him for a husband."

"Well...thank you." she managed to say.

Jimmy stood there in silence, smiling at the entire scenario. His sexy smile made Elizabeth's face turn red. Jimmy agreed to the room but when asked their names to enter in the register, they looked at each other, hesitating a response. "Mr. and Mrs. Morgan." Elizabeth replied after a few seconds elapsed. The woman gave them another friendly smile figuring the newlyweds still hadn't gotten used to the idea they were now husband and wife.

Jimmy requested a hot bath be set up for his wife and inquired on the direction to the livery stable in order to care for the horses. After paying all fees accordingly, he was handed the key, picked up her bags, requested the small trunk they had be brought up and they began the brief trek up the stairs to their room.

As Jimmy unlocked the door, Elizabeth felt as if she were entering a new chapter in her life. She felt really nervous as she stepped inside. The thoughts she had been having all this time regarding intimacy with Jimmy thrilled but frightened her at the same time.

"Well, here we are." he said, trying to ease the mood, seeing the concern in her face. He set the bags down on the floor. "I better go and care for the horses. I'll be back later."

She appreciated the gentlemanly gesture as he excused himself so she could have her bath. He turned back to her just before exiting, a thought clearly on his mind. "By the way, would you do me the honor of joining me for dinner tonight Mrs. Morgan." he winked at her.

She returned a sweet smile. "I'd love to."

________________________________________________________________________

After her relaxing bath, Elizabeth walked over to the small traveling trunk she'd brought along, she took out the dress she would wear to dinner tonight. Under the dress, there lay an ivory colored silk nightgown. She had purchased it while in Paris and now had brought it along on this trip. She traced the smooth fabric with her fingers, feeling its softness beneath them. Would she wear it for him? She still didn't know, but she began to contemplate it now long and hard. 'He would like it.' she thought.

There was a knock on the door. "Yes?" she answered. "It's me." called Jimmy's voice.

"One minute." she responded. She closed the trunk and stepped behind the changing screen. "Okay." she called. She heard the key on the door and his footsteps as he entered.

"I'll be ready in a bit." she said from behind the screen. "I had them draw a bath for you too. I thought you might enjoy it as much as I did."

"Thanks." he simply replied

"Is everything okay?" she asked peeking around the screen, noticing his unusual silence.

"No, everything's fine. The horses are being looked after...nothing's wrong."

"Good." she said, a wide smile across her face.

Jimmy's thoughts were the reason for his silence. His feelings of uncertainty about this entire situation were beginning to bother him, seeing they would be arriving at the Fort tomorrow. Where would things go from there? What if she decided to stay with Charles?

How would he deal with it if she decided to? Many questions ran the gammut in his head. For the sake of this night though, he would bury them deep. She was here with him now, and they had a wonderful evening planned to spend together even if it was going to be their first and last one.

Elizabeth went ahead and left the room after getting ready so Jimmy could have the privacy he needed, even though he tried convincing her to stick around. "Now where would the fun of anticipation be if I stuck around?" she teased. Jimmy had to agree with her on that one. They liked teasing each other in such a manner, but deep down inside they knew how serious they really were.

Her diary sat on the nightstand next to the bed. Jimmy looked at it, wanting to open it up and read what other things she had written since he last took that peek in the bunkhouse.

He debated wether to invade her privacy, her mind, once again. He really didn't feel guilty about the first time he read it, since it gave him some very valuable insight which he did use to his advantage. Reasoning on his lack of a guilty conscience, he went over and picking up the diary, opened it to another random page, just as he had the first time. It said: "How can life be so wonderful and cruel at the same time? My feelings for Jimmy are stronger than I would have ever envisioned. I had the most erotic experience in my life today with him as we worked together in the kitchen peeling potatoes. The way he seduced me made me so hot and bothered, I just wanted him to take me right there. His strong body pressed against mine and I could feel his pure arousal through his pants. The juices flowed freely through me as he kissed me. His kiss was so hot and lustful, displaying his fervent desire for me, I returned it just as passionately as he gave it. My heart bubbles with love for him. Just when I thought we would finally release our want for each other, the dreadful letter was delivered. Why? Why am I tortured so? Charles has written professing love for me still. Why does he hold me prisoner still? Yes, there is a measure of love I continue to have for him, but does he induce such passion, such desire in me? Has he ever made me hotter than Jimmy has? I have to say no. I realize desire and sexual want must take a back seat in place of reason. I want Jimmy so bad but I have to put the past behind me in order to move ahead with the future.

Jimmy sat on the bed, his face red, his heart thumping from the words written before him. He had just kept company with her most secret thoughts. It was as if he had opened up her soul, exposing every hidden emotion she tried to keep from him. Her words favored him. There was no doubt in his mind now. His feelings for her were just as strong. "I'm not going to let you go tonight Elizabeth." he whispered as he closed the diary. "Tonight, I'm going to make you mine." he promised.

_________________________________________________________________________

Jimmy stood before the vanity mirror tying the black necktie he would wear to dinner tonight when a knock was heard at the door. His attention turned towards the door and grabbing one of his guns as he always did asked who it was.

"Uhm Mr. Morgan, there's a Mrs. Morgan waiting anxiously for you to take her to dinner tonight." Elizabeth's voice induced a smile from him and he opened the door. At the sight of him she gave a broad smile indicating her pleasure at his handsome appearance. "Wow." she said. She brought her hand from behind her back, revealing a yellow daisy and offered it to him. "For you Mr. Morgan." she smiled with a sparkle in her eyes. Jimmy returned the nervous smile as he took the flower from her hand, their fingers touching, both feeling the warmth rushing through their bodies. Taking the flower she had just given him, he decided to adorn her hair with it, putting it on the side of her head.

"You look beautiful." he added, as he took in every aspect of her figure and dress. She managed only a shy blush. "Shall we?" he said as he secured his gunbelts on his hips, then after accomplishing that, he took her by the hand, heading downstairs.

They made it to the restaurant in good time to miss the boisterous revelries of the convention participants who had left for further entertainment at the saloon and town hall where the festivities continued.

They enjoyed a candle lit romantic dinner with wine and Elizabeth felt so happy as he looked at her with love-filled eyes, finding every opportunity to hold her hand. They left the restaurant and began a nice evening stroll holding hands. The night was beautiful. All the stars were out and the air was clean and fresh. As they passed the town hall, they heard the melody of music coming forth. Jimmy pulled on Elizabeth's hand as he stopped their walk. She turned toward him and pulling her by the hand brought her close up to him. He placed his one hand around her waist while he held her other and they commenced to dance slowly.

Few people roamed the street on this night but as they gazed into each other's eyes they felt as if they were the only two people in the world. Elizabeth couldn't resist the temptation of kissing him so she leaned into him, kissing his full lips, gently. He responded in like, as he coupled her lips, his tongue breaking the barrier in a smooth, sweeping motion into her mouth. The kiss was passionate but not rough. It was soft and full of tenderness. She pressed against him, her head on his shoulder, her arms around his neck. It was a sweet moment, a moment she wished would last forever.

About an hour later, they reached their room, deciding it was time to call it a night. Jimmy opened the door and Elizabeth walked in first and he followed right behind. The feelings she was dealing with were overwhelming. She felt deep want and desire, uncertainty and guilt all wrapped up together. She tried composing her nervousness but not very well at all. Jimmy noticed the uncertainty in her eyes. She took a seat on the vanity chair and thanked him for the lovely evening. He told her she was more than welcome and reciprocated the same feelings. There was an uncomfortable silence that ensued. Elizabeth's standoffishness didn't make matters easier. He was hoping to help her to relax somewhat, since they both had the same thought in mind; sex.

Jimmy placed his jacket and hat on the coat rack by the door. His back was facing her, not wanting to make her feel more uneasy than she seemed. He then proceeded to unstrap his gunbelts, setting them down on the small table in the room. Elizabeth's eyes had been heavy on him but she quickly turned her gaze when he turned back in her direction.

Sitting on the chair still, she leaned over and began to loosen the laces of her boots. Jimmy walked over to her and kneeling by her feet said in his softest tone, "Here, let me help you with those." Elizabeth allowed him although she knew better. He lifted her foot by the heel and rested it on his lap. He began to loosen the laces ever so carefully as Elizabeth looked on his sensuality. Once the laces had been sufficiently loosed, he placed his left hand up under the skirt of her dress on her calf and with his right hand, gently slid the footwear off.

He did the same to the other boot. Elizabeth's heart began to thump faster. She proceeded to stand up and walk away from him, seeing his hands had begun to get a little too curious as they gently crept up to her knees, then her thighs.

'What is wrong with you?' she yelled at herself. 'This is what you've wanted and waited for all along! Try to relax.' she thought, giving herself a pep talk. She turned to him and managed a nervous smile before excusing herself to the changing screen. Jimmy understood she was petrified. He was a bit nervous himself. He would take it slow for her. While she was out of his presence, he took the time to play in his mind the steps he would take to successfully seduce her. As he thought about this he relieved himself of his boots and took off the bothersome tie. He undid the top button of his pants and then untucked and unbuttoned his shirt. Elizabeth emerged from the place of concealment, her silk nightgown under the matching silk robe. As she walked back to the vanity, Jimmy's eyes enjoyed the sight. The fabric was so delicate and flowed with her body; with every move she made.

She said nothing as she sat at the vanity, facing the mirror. Her dark, shiny hair was loose down to her shoulders. She grabbed the brush and started to brush her hair. She could feel she was losing her cool, becoming more nervous as she felt his eyes burn into her. 'Relax, just relax. Take a deep breath. It's not like you haven't done this before.' she told herself. But the feeling was different. This wasn't just some passing fling, it was much more than that. Jimmy walked over and stood right next to her, facing her. She ceased her brushing, looking slowly to her right. There he stood, his shirt unbuttoned, the front of his pants had been undone and she could faintly see the form of his penis there before her eyes.

All of a sudden as if an evil dread fell on her, she got up breathing heavily as the face of Charles popped out at her. She stood in the middle of the room trying not to hyperventilate and at the same time trying to contain her unreasonable thoughts. Jimmy walked over stopping right behind her and gently grasped her arms. "It's okay if you're scared." he tried comforting her as he pressed his forehead against the back of her head.

'Scared?!' she thought, becoming defensive. 'It's not like I haven't had sex before.' she thought angrily. "You don't understand." she said pulling away from him. She wanted him, she really did, but Charles' image kept haunting her now more than ever before.

"You may be scared about what might happen between us tonight." he said, understanding what she might be feeling.

The gaul, she thought. How could he be so presumptuous to think that she would let him have her at all? She gasped in response. "There is absolutely nothing that's going to happen between us tonight." She couldn't believe she had just said that. 'You idiot!' she shouted at herself. It wasn't really her talking but her nervousness. 'Just let him take over since you've obviously lost your mind!' she told herself.

"I don't think you mean that. I sure hope you don't." he said as he slowly approached her. With every step he took towards her, she took one back. "I want you Elizabeth. I've wanted you for a very long time." he said in a very seducing tone of voice. Elizabeth's breathing became more labored as she looked at the lust in his eyes. She continued backing away until she had no place to go for her back was now against the door. He continued his approach, realizing she had no further escape. Soon, he was right there, inches from her. His eyes soaked in the beauty before him as he looked at her parts.

"Do you want me Elizabeth?" he asked in a whisper as he untied the belt of her robe. Elizabeth closed her eyes, becoming weak as the question fell on her ears. "Do you want me as much as I want you?" he asked, seducing her with his words as his breath caressed her neck.

"Yes." she answered softly. Jimmy smiled inside. That was all the conformation he needed.

Sliding the robe off her, he stared at the form of her breasts, how her hardened nipples poked through the fabric. His arousal became greater. He took her hand and placed it on his bare chest. They looked at each other deeply. She enjoyed the feel of him and grazed her hand over his hardened nipples. How she had longed to do that. With both hands now on his chest, she swept underneath his shirt, feeling his muscular shoulders and slipped the shirt off him. His muscular body called out to her as her hands slid down to feel the ripples of his stomach. He stopped her hand short from entering his pants and she obeyed in kind.

He took her bottom lip between his soft lips as he had done to her before and heard her utter in a faint whisper, "Oh my god." He played with her lips and in one smooth move, he took her face in his hands and slipped his tongue with command into her mouth. She followed his lead obediently, his passion being expressed through his hot kiss. As he continued to kiss her, his hands slid down the path of her neck, down to her shoulders as he so effortlessly slipped the gown off her shoulders. The sleeveless gown slid down easily to her elbows, exposing her beautifully rounded breasts. Jimmy looked at them, and liked what he saw. His masculine member was really hard now. He brought his hands from her shoulders, to her chest and finally cupped her breasts in his hands. The feel of them sent a flood of arousal through him. He felt the hardness of her nipples and the fullness of her breasts. His touch made her even wetter that is, until he secured her nipples in his mouth. Elizabeth felt like she needed air. Her heart racing as he continued savoring her firm breasts.

Jimmy wanted all of her. His desire grew with every second. From her breasts he proceeded to kiss her stomach, sliding the rest of the nightgown that now rested on her hips off her completely. With his tongue he traced the line between her breasts down to her bellybutton. Kneeling down on her, he passed a hand over her forest and began to lay soft kisses on her inner thighs as he gently hinted for her to separate her legs. Elizabeth's anticipation grew wildly as he finally found the spot of her vagina. The expertise of his tongue on her sent a flow of juices through her and he welcomed the taste of her sweet nectar. Her fingers became tangled in his hair as he found the button of her ultimate womanhood, and administered his magic on her as her moans of pleasure fell on his ears. Jimmy was really enjoying the taste of her, and smoothly raised her right leg up, resting her thigh on his shoulder to gain better access. With stiff tongues he entered the warmth inside her, feeling a hint of her fever. Elizabeth's eyes widened and she gasped with ultimate pleasure at his handy work. She didn't want him to stop but soon he did returning to the trail he had taken on his way south. Elizabeth was now very relaxed and let herself go as she kissed him fully on the mouth.

As they continued their passioned-filled kiss, Jimmy picked her up and walked to the bed. He stood her at the edge, and she separated from his lips. Her eyes roamed every speck of his perfectly defined body. With her hands and mouth she started to feel and kiss his body. His nipples, his chest, his firm stomach. Her hand entered the realm of his pants and this time he didn't stop her. His hardness was thrilling to her touch. She looked in his eyes as her hand traced the path of his long, hard penis. Wrapping her fingers around it, she kissed him fully once again, giving him a mere foregleam of what she was about to do with her tongue.

She sat on the edge of the bed and turned his hips towards her. She nibbled at his hardness through the fabric of his underwear. With both hands on his hip, she slid them into his underwear, pulling them down. He stood there, his perfection before her eyes. The tigress in Elizabeth's eyes made its appearance and now there was no holding back.

With her tongue, she traced his hardened shaft from his head to his balls. She turned her head in such a way where he could see her perform so beautifully. Without any warning she opened her mouth and took him in. Jimmy moaned with pleasure as she began the firm strokes. She took him deep into her mouth, savoring every delicious inch of him. With her hands securedly fixed on his smooth bare-naked butt, she pulled him in even more. She felt his rigid penis down the back of her throat as she did administer this with great enjoyment on her part. He was so big and so, so hard. His hand rested on her head, feeling every thrilling motion and Jimmy felt like exploding in her mouth. Eventually he held her head signaling for her to stop unless she receive the creamy surprise. She would've welcomed it gladly. Elizabeth had learned much from her time in Paris and was surely putting her new-found techniques to great use. Jimmy sure found the head job very intoxicating.

She kissed the head of his penis once more, and proceeded to slide her body on the bed.

Jimmy breathed with great contentment as she lay there, her perfectly defined and contoured body, waiting for him. Elizabeth on her part eagerly awaited her hardened visitor and encouraged him to come to her now. Jimmy obliged gladly, climbing on top, separating her legs with his knees. He took one more moment to admire her beauty, her breasts, her firm stomach, her smooth thighs as his hands traveled without inhibitions over her body. Soon, he positioned himself ready to enter the steamy room. Elizabeth felt her body calling out ever so strongly for him to enter. The sudden feel of his cock on her vagina sent another flow of rapidly flowing juices from her as he slowly made his way in. Elizabeth welcomed him with her hot passion. She was slippery wet just for him and he began to move about first slowly and then with more rapid force. His intervals were exhilirating to her as she rested her hands on his bare behind feeling every thrust and push he conjured. He filled her so perfectly. Jimmy's excitement rose with every moan from her and every kiss she laid on him. She liked what he was doing and he thrilled in his conquest.

His motions were applied in such majestic manners. It's like as if he knew every spot on her to hit, to rub, so as to make her come so effortlessly. Her orgasms came without warning and they came hard. His mouth secured the nipples of her breasts as he held her arms above her head and continued to thrust inside her. She found herself weakening with every delicious stroke her gave her. He let go of her arms and Elizabeth tried her best not to mark his back from the unbelievable pleasure she was feeling but she couldn't. No one had ever done her like that. She dug her nails into his back from the exhilirating rollercoaster ride of sexual excitement and pleasure she was granted. His hair fell over the sides of his face, flowing with every move he made. She loved the way he looked as he commanded the bed and she didn't resist. Her hips moved with his letting him know 'yes you're doing it right.' He wanted her, he got all of her. He then brought both of his hands under her bottom, holding her in place as his penis thrust ever deeper into her, making her call out his name. Elizabeth wrapped her legs around his back, giving him all the room he wanted and he took it. Her body sent out another strong signal, an orgasm was on the horizon, and when she felt him stiffen, thrusting one more time into her, she let go of her own dynamic burst and together they were sent over the edge, totally and finally fulfilled. Their bodies relaxed on each other's as their breaths and heartbeats slowed down from the calming effect.

________________________________________________________________________

They lay in bed, their naked bodies still pressed against each other. She leaned her back against his chest as his arms draped over her, holding her close. She took his hand and began to inspect it closely, kissing his fingers and his palm. "Be careful," he warned with a smile, "or we may be heading for a second round."

"Why? Can't you handle it?" she teased.

"Oh I'm sure I could...but I don't know if my back can." he said, glancing at his very marked back. She turned over to face him. "Oooh let me look." she turned to him and raised herself on her elbow to see the marks. "I'm so sorry. It won't happen again."

"You mean I won't be able to make love to you again Mrs. Morgan? I sure hope that's not the case." he responded devilishly.

"I meant the marks." she said as she laid back down, cuddled in his arms.

"That's okay. Just tells me I was doing a damn good job." he smiled.

"And that Mr.Hickok, I mean Mr. Morgan is definetaly a fact." she added with a seducing look in her eyes. She caressed his face softly with her hand and laid a gentle kiss on his lips. "It was magical." she told him softly. She paused as they looked intently into each other. "I wish this night would never have to end. Can you just hold me and never let me go?" she sought his comfort by snuggling into his chest. Jimmy held her tight. He wished as she did that this night could be neverending but that was an impossibility. Tomorrow they would reach their destination. Where would things go from here? He didn't know. At least tonight, he had her in his arms and he wouldn't let her go.

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They rose early the next morning after their passion-filled night and actually felt like newlyweds. They were greeted once downstairs by the same woman clerk that had checked them in the day before. The woman hoped they had had a pleasant evening and wished them good luck in their marriage. She extended an invitation for them to return one day seeing how happy they looked.

"I think we may do just that on our way back home. Don't you think sweetheart?" said Elizabeth looking at Jimmy with a sweet smile.

"I reckon we can certainly do that." he winked in response.

Jimmy loaded their luggage on the buckboard and soon they were headed to Fort Laramie.

The ride was their most relaxing yet. Elizabeth snuggled close to Jimmy as they talked and shared laughs and lots and lots of kisses.

By early afternoon they saw the town in the near horizon. Elizabeth looked at Jimmy with a scared, uncertain look. The time had come. With her renewed sense of love for Jimmy could she go through with what she came here to do? Jimmy must have read her mind for he commented that it wasn't too late for them to turn around and head back to Rock Creek. She gave his suggestion strong consideration but she knew she needed to stop running from Charles. She had to know where her feelings for him lay and there was only one way to do that...she would have to meet with him.

They rode into Fort Laramie and Jimmy took care once again of the necessary business with the horses and the rooms at the hotel. When they entered the hotel together, the wild assumption was made once again that they were married but this time they admitted to the contrary and received apologies from the desk clerk who mentioned what a handsome couple they made making them both turn red from the compliment. They were able to secure two separate rooms having agreed they would do so on their arrival to the Fort.

Elizabeth hated feeling like a hypocrite since she really wanted to be with Jimmy now. Charles wouldn't arrive for another two days but appearances had to be maintained. She was after all a lady. She couldn't be seen on the arm of one beau one day and then on the arm of a different man just days from now. Rumors were terrible things and she didn't want any information no matter how small regarding her affair with Jimmy to reach Charles' attention. So, there was no hand holding, no public kissing or walking arm in arm, yes, no public displays of affection of any kind. It almost killed Elizabeth especially when Jimmy would get compliments from some of the very flirty young women they encountered as they walked through town. There wasn't much she could do to stop them. She just gave them the hateful 'leave my man alone' glare and since that didn't work in one particular instant, she decided to take a hold of him by the arm saying, "Come on dear brother we don't want to be late for lunch. You know Elizabeth will be very upset if she sees you speaking in such intimate ways with that sort." Then turning her attention to the flirty young woman she continued with a smirk, "Well you know men, they can never be satisfied with just one. But this one's already spoken for." With that she pulled him by his arm and they headed for a late lunch at the town restaurant.

Fort Laramie was a much more developed town than Rock Creek or any of the other smaller townships along the way. It was nice to be in a place that was somewhat more modernized. Elizabeth welcomed the change. It brought back memories of Boston and Paris although the scenery could not be likened to her previous places of habitation.

They sat in the restaurant enjoying their meal but Elizabeth was still a bit annoyed with him. He admitted he was trying to ruffle her feathers by flirting with that last one a bit too much for her taste. "If you're trying to punish me you're certainly doing a good job." she said. He hadn't kissed her for hours and to her that felt like an eternity. Not to mention she kept getting horny just looking at him and thinking about the delicious love they had made the night before.

"This is hard for me too Elizabeth." he admitted. He continued in a whisper, "Don't you know how much I want to hold you and kiss you; how I want to feel you close to me..."

She interrupted his sentence. "Shh, shh, shh. Don't say another word. You don't know what you're doing to me." She was getting hot all over again. She wanted him now, she wanted him inside her this very minute. "Please, have some mercy on your humble slave girl. That kind of talk you know, makes me very excited." He smiled at her and said as he faintly caressed her hand with a finger, "I know." She returned the smile knowing full well the thoughts going on in his head just then.

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That night she sat in her room on her bed all alone. She wrote in her diary without much hesitation in between words. She had much, much to say.

Elizabeth had to stop writing. Her breathing had become heavier as the images in her mind made the wetness between her legs begin to flow. She was hot for him. Only one thought crossed her mind, and she was going to take care of matters right now. Setting the diary aside for a later time, she opened the door to her room slowly and peeked down the hallway just to make sure no one was in sight. She ran a few steps down the hall to the next room which was Jimmy's. She tapped on the door, trying not to knock devestatingly hard even though she felt like knocking down the door if she could. He was just on the other side and she couldn't wait to grab a hold of him.

"Who is it?" he asked, as he sat on his bed, a gun in his hand.

"It's me." she answered.

Jimmy got up swiftly at the sound of her voice and opened the door. She stepped into the room quickly before anyone could see her. "What's wrong?" he asked worriedly.

"I can't sleep Jimmy. Strange town, strange bed. I always have a hard time sleeping when I'm away from home." she said with an innocent but devilish air in her voice. "Can I stay the night with you...here?" she asked, as she touched the ends of his brown hair.

"Well, if you think it'll help you get to sleep. Sure." he responded, knowing full well the thoughts in both their minds.

"It will." Elizabeth stepped up close to him and lay a soft kiss on him, then engaged his mouth in a sultry, lustful kiss. Jimmy took her in his arms responding to her want. She separated from him and began feeling his chest through his shirt and then took it upon herself to begin unbuttoning it. Once all buttons were opened she pressed her lips against his rounded nipples and with her tongue began to lick. Jimmy felt a rush through his body. She was the initiator this time and he found that very exciting. Her hand began to unbutton and unzip his pants and soon her hand was on his crotch once again. She began her masterful performance once she got his pants down, and he reveled in the sexual massage his member was receiving, getting harder by the second. When she was done she kissed his stomach, licked his nipples again and gave him a firm wet kiss as her hands grabbed on to his firm buns.

Jimmy of course was more than happy to please her. She turned around so he could undo her dress, nothing that was too difficult to take off; she had made sure of that. With sweeping hands under the back of the dress he exposed her smooth back and began to lay soft kisses on it. She lacked the wear of any undergarments so he immediately found her rounded breasts, holding them in his hands, fondling them, as he stood behind her, kissing her neck and mouth once she leaned against him.

Stepping out of their cumbersome clothes, she took him by the hand and led him to his bed.

The thought that he would make love to her on his bed was excitably sensuous. She laid down, her naked body before his eyes. He joined her, straddling on top of her. She reached for a feel of his muscular chest, and he took her hand and put her middle then her index finger into his mouth. It was so sexually exciting as she looked at him. He went down on her, separating her legs with his hands and commenced treating her with his magical tongue. It was even better this time than the first and she couldn't believe the sensations he was giving her. With a couple fingers, he exposed her button as his tongue whipped across her clitoris, teasing and playing with it, sucking it from time to time. Her hips moved at the feel of his sexual treatment and she really reveled every lick, suck and kiss he put on her.

After he had been done, he climbed on her and began to enter her, his cock, rock hard and she welcomed him once again with wide-open legs. Their love-making was even more sensual than the night before as they changed positions, her on top, him from behind in different modes. Their explosions were in unison and she wouldn't have had it any other way. He was indeed intoxicating and she would love to have him constantly, besides, he had unbelievably great stamina.

Elizabeth did fall asleep, happy and contented in the arms of her lover. Sweet dreams she dreamt of her and Jimmy; together like this, forever.

_________________________________________________________________________

The next day they spent together away from the town, where roving eyes were certainly absent. They loved the picnic they had by the lake and the different trails they were able to ride on with their horses.

Elizabeth once again spent the night in Jimmy's bed. Their last night together? She hoped it wouldn't be. He had made love to her again and the memories she had stored would last her a lifetime. She figured a woman found only one great lover during her years and she had found hers. He was young, and strong and very sexual. 'It can't get better than Jimmy.' she thought.

As they lay under the sheets in each other's embrace, Jimmy gave her a huge endearing hug.

"What was that for?" she asked, staring into his warm brown eyes.

"Just to let you know, that no matter what happens tomorrow, that I really care for you Elizabeth. These past few days, in fact this whole summer has been the best of my life and that's because of you. No matter what, I want you to remember that."

"I will." she replied, cuddling close to him, her head on his chest.

"Elizabeth?" he called. "Hmm?" she responded.

"Do you know what you'll tell Charles tomorrow? When you see him?" his concerned voice asked.

"No." she said softly. "I won't know until I see him."

"Has he...have you two...been together?" he hesitated with the question.

"Why James Hickok!" she started playfully but saw the look of hurt and concern in his eyes and she was led to comfort him. "No. He's never had me." she said with a quiet voice as she ran her fingers through his long hair. Jimmy felt relieved. He knew there would've been a possibility if he indeed had conquered her the way he had, for old feelings and memories to come flooding back and he wouldn't be able to stand the thought of her making love to another man.

"I'm glad to hear it." he said.

"I love you Jimmy." she confessed openly for the first time, and those words caressed his soul. "I love you Elizabeth." he responded in like. They shared a passionate kiss and Jimmy hoped that he had had enough time to have burned into her his image, his love, forever.

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"Excuse me, but would you happen to have a guest registered here under the name of Elizabeth Morgan?" asked the properly, elegantly dressed man standing at the clerk's desk.

"Mr. Montgomery?" inquired the clerk of the man.

"Yes, I'm he."

"Ms. Morgan said she'd be waiting for you over at the restaurant in town. If you would please be so cordial as to meet her there."

Charles thanked the clerk for the prompt message, and tipping his hat, walked over to the restaurant to meet his lady.

Elizabeth sat at the table, nervous as can be. How would she react when she finally lay sight of him? She was afraid to answer that question but the response would come soon enough. As he entered, she spotted him right away. The host directed him to the table where she awaited him. Once he saw her, he broke a broad, joyous smile. She looked as radiant as ever and he indeed had to admit that yes, he still was very much in love with her.

She stood from her seat as she saw him approach and once he reached her, he took her hands in his, giving them an endearing squeeze and gave her a kiss on her cheek.

"You are sight for sore eyes Elizabeth. You look even more beautiful than I remembered."

She blushed at his complimentary words. "Thank you Charles. You're looking quite well yourself." she said as they took their seats.

"Oh Elizabeth, you don't know how long I've waited for this moment." he took a hold of her hands once more. "Thank you for coming." The look in his eyes conveyed his feelings of utter relief that she had decided to meet with him yet the pain and hurt that existed from their quarrelsome adieu was still lingering therein.

"You're welcome Charles." she responded with civility as she took her hands from him and began arranging the napkin in her lap.

Sensing she was rather tense, he switched gears in the conversation, as the waiter took Charles' request for a bottle of wine to be brought to them. "Your parents, are they well?"

"Yes, they're quite well. Father's business is flourishing and mother is busy as always with her different projects. You know my mother." she said with a faint smile.

The waiter returned and began pouring the wine into their glasses and left the remainder of the bottle on the table. Charles tried to read Elizabeth, he could always see what she had been thinking or contemplating but this time he couldn't; something about her was different.

Elizabeth's thoughts ran from one extreme to the next. It was as if the past year and a half was flashing before her eyes in a matter of an instant: How wonderful things had started out between them, his proposal, her acceptance and withdrawal from the engagement. Her decision to leave him and head for Paris, her experiences there, her trip back home and her mother's suggestion of getting away from it all by paying Rachel a visit, her trip to Rock Creek, her infatuation with one James Hickok and her eventual surrender to his sexual empowerment. All these thoughts she had while she sat there trying to handle this as calmly and reserved as she could.

Charles inquired on her time in Paris and, she admitted she loved every minute of it. She informed him she would be returning to continue her studies in fashion designing. She had become rather intrigued by French Coutoure and Madam Bigou, her teacher, had become renowned in Paris for her designs of sexy lingerie. The French were much more liberated when it came to matters regarding sex she learned. Nothing bothered Elizabeth more than American conservatism where sex was hardly seen anywhere, unless you went to a brothel. She had left America a very innocent girl and came back a better, more rounded woman.

Charles was not pleased in hearing she would return to Paris and to study what? Designing? It was not the sort of thing a proper lady would even consider doing, he commented. Elizabeth rolled her eyes at his demeaning comment and recalled how he wanted her to stay at home and be a wife and mother without having explored the world. He would have liked for her to stay innocent, but that she wasn't anymore. Her eyes had been uncovered and she would not revert. She was her own woman and did not need a man to mold her into what he preferred her to be. Charles, being older, thought he knew what was best for her and at times it became obvious that his desires and expectations were different from hers. Yet, his intense passion for her, his undying care for her, made her love him. He was afterall a very generous, kind, gentle, man.

Elizabeth's decision had been finally made as she sat there in front of him. The confusion she felt the past week was gone. Charles was not right for her. Although she cared for him and she possibly would always, their differences were too many now. There were many more to count since she last saw him. Being a slave owner was not just what led her to brake the engagement, but his expectations of her had begun to suffocate her. Yes, she cared and loved him in a sensible way, but they had grown apart and the ocean between them was too wide to travel.

After their lunch date, Charles and Elizabeth rode out to the lake, where she had picnicked with Jimmy the day before and the feelings she had were awkward. Yesterday here she had been with her lover and today here she was, with a man who wanted to be her lover. She felt overwhelmingly guilty and decided to end things with Charles now.

He began to comment on the beauty of the spot but she cut him off by saying, "Charles please." she began softly. "There's much that needs to be said between us and not enough time to do it." she pointed directly.

They dismounted their horses. Charles stood by her, waiting to hear whatever it was she had to say. Elizabeth didn't know where to begin, so she concluded the best thing to do was start at the beginning.

"When I left for Paris Charles, you knew full well my reasons for going. I couldn't bear the thought of us not being together anymore. The pain was much for me to bear and yes, I decided running away as far as I could from you would help me get over you. But it hadn't. When I received your letter, I was overwhelmed with old feelings for you. Why? I don't know. Maybe it was because you were the first man I ever fell in love with. I would've at one point reveled in becoming your wife, but that's in the past."

"Elizabeth, what are you saying?" he asked, a wrinkle developing in his brow.

"What I'm saying Charles," she continued as she looked into his eyes, "We're not...I'm not the same girl you knew. I've changed and I don't think you could ever be satisfied with the way I am now. The differences between us are now too many to make ammends. You have goals and dreams that are not mine to share. You have ideals that I could never meet.

I'm not the naive girl that left for Paris. The world has been opened up to me Charles in remarkable ways, I have blossomed into a woman. A woman who knows what she wants her life to be."

"But I could give you a good life Elizabeth." he said convincingly.

"I know you could Charles. But a good, comfortable life is not what I seek. We're two very different people who want different things out of life."

"I'll change for you. Whatever you say." he said with intense plea.

"No you won't." she countered, softly. "And I wouldn't want you to. You're a good man Charles and you will find the right woman for you; I'm just not the right one for you." She felt his deepening pain with every word that issued from her mouth. She wished she could've told him everything she had to without the infliction of injury to him, but there was no way of doing that. She tried to be as gentle as she could.

' 'Tis better to hurt now for a little while than to hurt unceasingly in the future.' she thought.

Charles couldn't let her go without asking the inevitable question. "Is there some other Elizabeth?" he said, looking right at her.

Elizabeth closed her eyes and released a heavy sigh. "I would be lying to you if I told you there wasn't."

"I see. He has stolen your heart from me has he not?" he said with a hint of sarcasm in his voice.

"He is a wonderful man Charles. Granted, he could possibly never give me the life that you've so graciously offered me but I do love him. He has endured this entire ordeal with reserved civility for most part. As of this moment, as we speak, he doesn't know if I will return to him or remain with you, yet he waits for my decision. Ever so patiently he waits. Does he deserve to undergo such torture? No, yet he's willing to wait for I know that he does love me. What the future holds for us, that doesn't matter right now. We love each other and that is enough."

Charles was heartbroken. He came to Fort Laramie with high hopes; hopes of leaving assured of Elizabeth's hand in marriage. He was extremely disappointed but had to concede to the fact that her heart belonged to another man. He thought himself a fool for allowing her to get away and admired the man who was smart enough to have held on to her.

They spoke little on their way back to town. Many things weighing heavily on their minds; their coming good-bye being foremost. They reached the hotel and dismounted their horses. Charles took Elizabeth by the hand, the pain so vivid in his brown eyes. It was a difficult moment for them both. Taking a deep breath, he composed himself and said, "Well I guess this is goodbye." Elizabeth looked on him with a similar pain. She wished it didn't have to be this way, but sometimes things happen for a reason. "I guess the next time love comes knocking at my door, I won't be so blind and stubborn to see what's staring me right in the face." he added, trying to smile.

"I know you'll be ready." she comforted.

He took her in his arms one last time, giving her a hearty hug and a kiss on the cheek. "You take care of yourself you hear?"

"You do the same. I will always remember you." she whispered to him.

"And you will always be with me Elizabeth Morgan. On my death-bed, I, even I will think upon your beautiful face. Who knows, maybe our paths will cross before then."

"Only time will tell." she smiled.

"And what secrets she does keep indeed." he smiled back. He took one last good look at her, nodded another goodbye and mounted his horse as he turned toward the livery stable.

Elizabeth felt as if a massive weight had been taken off her shoulders. She breathed a heavy sigh of relief. She could finally close that chapter of her life, now ready to continue with the ones that had begun to be written.

As she climbed the steps to the hotel, she looked down the street and saw Jimmy approaching. Her heart bubbled over with happiness. She turned and picking up her skirt, began a light run to him. His head had been downcast, as he concentrated on Elizabeth, praying she would return to him. He was extremely anxious but troubled. She stood a few feet from him as he looked up. Their eyes met and a flood of emotions poured forth. She had come back to him, he thought. The smile that greeted him blanketed him with such great comfort and joy. She ran to him, not reserving any emotions and threw herself into his arms. Jimmy welcomed her, holding unto her as if he were never to let go. He closed his eyes as he held her tight, her hold on him just as intense. They looked at each other and he pressed his lips on hers when he realized that she had been crying.

"What's wrong?" he asked.

"I'm just so happy to be in your arms. I love you Jimmy. I really do." she emphasized as the tears continued down her face. "I was so scared I would lose you."

"You'll never lose me." he said as he hugged her once more.

Passersby stared at the young couple that looked so much in love, giving approving smiles at the display of affection between the two. Arm in arm they walked back to the hotel to share their love once again.

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The next three weeks whisked by swiftly, at least to them. Elizabeth and Jimmy spent every waking moment they could spare with each other. They had grown very fond of one another and the love between them just continued to grow.

On his return from a run, she left a note on his bunk, telling him to meet her in the barn at an appointed time that evening. He anticipated the moment anxiously since she had made herself scarce that day. She certainly knew how to tease and pull his strings. Not seeing her for more than a few seconds made his want increase even more.

He did show up at the barn that evening, following a series of notes she had left around as clues, and found her up in the loft. A dim lamp lit the room and she lay there on a blanket, naked, her breasts draped in just one of his neckerchiefs. The sight was very erotic and the love they made that night was even more so as they enjoyed the feel and taste of each other.

Elizabeth always seemed to have a way of allowing him to experience her in different ways. While everyone was away one day, she snuck into the shower stall where he was taking his shower, totally naked, surprising the life out of him. He voiced concern about Rachel and the others if they happened to come back but she reassured him there wasn't any need worrying. So, pushing his concern aside, she began her seducing measures by grabbing the bar of soap from his hand and started lathering him up, feeling all of his body parts. She kissed him fully and determined. She went down on him enjoying all parts of his manhood as the water from the huge drum fell on them, all was a new experience. Neither had had sex in a shower before and the thrill was orgasmically stimulating. Outdoors, during the day, and the danger of getting caught, were very powerful stimuli. She enjoyed it all fiercely as he leaned her up against the stall, holding her legs up against his hips as he pumped and drove into her, satisfying her and at the same time trying not to knock the stall wall down. He came hard and so did she. She licked and sucked off the beads of water that had formed on his neck and chest. He looked good enough to eat, standing there, his sexy form before her eyes. He kissed her on the lips once again before turning around to finish his shower. Seeing his muscular back and firm butt led her to walk up to him and press her breasts against his back, bringing her hands around to his chest while she lay sweet kisses on his back. Yeah, things just seemed to be getting better all the time.

The last week of her stay was soon upon them. They dreaded the fact that they only had a few remaining days to spend together. She would be headed back to Boston for a couple of weeks to see her parents before leaving for Paris. The thought of not having her around tore Jimmy apart. She would be so far far away. What would he do without her? Her feelings were just as fervent as his. She would miss him dearly. Her heart would yearn for him in constancy.

The evening before her departure, Rachel had planned a little party for her. All the riders as well as Teaspoon, were present and each expressed their delight in getting an opportunity to have known her, and she reciprocated the same deep affection she had developed for each of them; even Cody. She would miss them all and hoped they would keep in touch with her regularly.

After the party Jimmy and Elizabeth wanted to spend their last night together alone and away from everyone else. They rode out to the lake where they set out a blanket and spent the time reminiscing all of the events of the summer. The night was full of twinkling stars, and the cool breeze that surfed off the lake was refreshingly relaxing. The light of the moon shone on the two lovers, basking them with its gentle glow as the sounds of crickets added to the romantic atmosphere. As they laid down looking up at the stars, holding hands they talked about their feelings for each other; how much they loved each other and wondered if time would be good to them a second time around where they would actually cross paths again. They didn't know the answer to that question, just hoped that if it was their destiny, they would be together again.

Under the light of that very moon, Jimmy and Elizabeth made love for the last time. Her memory, she made sure, became ingrained with every possible image of Jimmy Hickok. He had indeed accomplished that. He had loved her like no man ever had. He had shown her full blown pleasure in every respect and helped her discover a side to her womanhood she never knew existed. He was a good man. Strong but gentle, fearless and caring and he had fallen in love with her. She felt like the luckiest woman in the world.

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Elizabeth sat at the small vanity, looking at the woman that stared back at her. She felt happy truly happy for the first time in a long while. Her face glowed, and she felt she could go out and conquer the world. The only down part of it was that Jimmy wouldn't be there to share it with her. He let her know that his life was here, this is where he belonged. He hated to see her leave him but this was the only life he knew and he had to come to accept that. He didn't know if he would fit in anywhere else and wanted her not to think of him but of herself. What wonderful things she could accomplish and his reassurance that she would always be with him made her see that she couldn't convince him to come with her.

"Elizabeth!" called Rachel from downstairs. "We have to go soon."

"Okay. I'll be down in a few minutes." she yelled back.

The leather bound diary sat on top of the vanity next to her hand. Opening to a newly fresh page, she began to pen: "Rock Creek. What am I to say about you? You're a wonderful place. I came here to you a girl in many ways and am leaving a complete woman. You've opened up to me a life that I never knew. What is it that I found in you that I didn't find in Boston or Paris? I found myself. Who Elizabeth Morgan really is. I'm a woman with passion, and love for life. I know how to love and how to be loved. You've given me the most wonderful gift I could've ever had...Jimmy Hickok; my lover, my friend. My heart breaks to leave him here with you, but this is where he's told me he belongs. I'm certain you will watch over him for my sake. Please do. He's given me so much more than he could imagine. I will never forget the love we shared. The passion he bestowed on me. Those memories will be forever close to my heart. I know I will never find a man like him ever again. His love for life made me alive and he taught me "not to fear life but to live each day as if it were your last." That is what I intend to do. I love you James Butler Hickok. I will always love you."

"Elizabeth! Come on we have to go!" shouted Rachel once more.

"I'm coming!" she replied in a loud tone, as she closed her diary and set it in her bag.

Rising to her feet, she took one last look at her room, her bed. She walked to her bed and traced her open hand over the quilt that draped it. She closed her eyes and recalled very vividly the afternoon they had made love on her bed. Each memory was different, each special in its own way, each permanently recorded in writing. She opened her eyes and released a loud sigh and with that, picked up her bag and joined the others downstairs.

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Once they reached town, they stood in front of the Rock Creek Hotel awaiting the arrival of the noon stage. They stood there chatting and laughing, trying to savor every second they had left together. Elizabeth stood with her arm around Jimmy's waist, his on her shoulders. Even to the last she couldn't resist the urge to touch his body. Her hand at times slid a bit too low down to his buttocks, sending flashes of red to his face as he pulled her hand back to where it belonged. The others of course, were oblivious to the act and that is just the way they liked it.

The stage was just five minutes in arriving and so since she had much to say before departing she began her good-byes.

"Buck," she said, giving him a kiss on the cheek. "Thank you so much for taking time to teach me some sign. I'm sure it'll come in handy. Hopefully."

"Take care of yourself Elizabeth." he added.

"Noah, what can I say? Watching you practice on those apples with that whip...well thanks for letting me try it, though I never did get the hang of your accurate snap, I had fun trying."

"Like I told you, it's all in the wrists." he smiled at her and she gave him a kiss also.

"Kid, Lou. I will never forget you. We've shared some really special times together. Remember the lake?" she winked and they both blushed. The reference was to a time that the four of them went skinny-dipping late one night at the lake. Lou and Kid had gotten so hot for each other that they ran off to have the ultimate experience and once they returned let's just say they looked pretty darn happy.

"It has been memorable." blushed Kid, as he kissed her cheek.

"I'll never forget you." added Louise, who had been a benificiary of a lot of Elizabeth's sophisticated sexual intelligence. They had spent many a nights sharing thoughts and ideas on seeking pleasure and giving pleasure to their men. Both put everything they shared into practice.

"Now remember Louise," she began, then whispered in her ear, "it doesn't matter where you do it, it's how well you do it, where you do it." Lou blushed as Elizabeth chanted their motto. They ended their goodbye with an endearing hug.

She smiled as she looked at the next person in line. "Cody, Cody, Cody." she started as she held his hands. "You are one of the most interesting men I've ever met. Don't you ever change."

"Elizabeth," he said looking at her with his beautiful eyes, "I wish things would've turned out different for us. All I have to say is that Hickok is one lucky dog." She smiled broadly and gave him a small peck on the lips.

"Teaspoon, thank you so much for everything. I'll never forget most of the things you said. You take care of yourself Marshal. It was a priviledge to know you." she said sweetly.

"Well Elizabeth, the priviledge was all mine." he said as he tipped his hat to her. "I'm just glad you were able to put up with the likes of them for an entire summer. Heck, I have a hard time dealing with them every day." She chuckled at his remark and gave him a hug.

"Rachel. It was so good to see you again."

"I hate goobyes." she informed as she wiped the corner of her eyes with a handkerchief.

"Don't you dare start or I'm going to start crying too. I've done well so far so don't you dare start." she said looking at her dear friend. "Take good care Rachel. You've always been special to me. Thank you...for a wonderful summer."

"Let's not wait another ten years before we see each other again." She extended her arms to Elizabeth and they hugged heartily. As they hugged, Elizabeth whispered in her ear, "By the way, take good care of Noah." she smiled at her friend who gave her a surprised look and added almost in a laugh, "Have a safe trip Elizabeth."

The last goodbye was reserved for Jimmy. Her heart sank with sadness as she approached the famous gunfighter, her man, who had the solemnest look in his eyes. He took hold of both her hands and kissed the back of each, smelling the soft scent they possessed.

"Are you sure you won't change your mind?" she inquired once more.

"One day maybe, but I can't today." he honestly said. "You're a special woman Elizabeth Morgan and I want you to dream big dreams enough for the both of us. I will always be with you, no matter where you are in this world you'll always be here." he said, taking her hand and placing it over his heart.

Elizabeth couldn't restrain the tears from her eyes. They flowed freely down her face, telling the pain she felt deep inside. He lifted her chin and wiped her tears with his gloved hand and leaned into her lips giving them a sweet kiss. He tasted the tears from her eyes and felt her tongue on his lips wanting a more sensual kiss which he gave as she wrapped her arms around his neck, his hands on her waist. The kiss was gentle, an expression of the love they had been so fortunate to share. As they kissed, the display made their friends blush as they glanced on the couple. They knew full well the love they had between them and were happy but sad also that she had to leave him behind.

As they parted from that kiss, she took his hands in hers and squeezed them. She looked into is beautiful, sexy eyes and declared once more, "I love you."

He took her in his arms once again and repeated the same profession. "I love you Elizabeth." She shut her eyes tight as the tears began to flow again.

The stage pulled up then, just a few feet away. It was time to go. The boys picked up Elizabeth's luggage and headed toward the coach where the stage master helped them load the wagon. Teaspoon opened the door to the coach. Elizabeth took one long look at Rock Creek, at her friends. She turned her attention to Jimmy caressing the side of his face with one hand and gently gave him one last kiss. He helped her on the wagon and closed the door when she had entered. She held Jimmy's hand through the open window until the stage master shouted the next stop and snapped the reins, sending the team of horses into a gallop. The hold they had was soon broken, as she waved good-bye to them all.

Jimmy stood there, watching the coach that carried his love away, get smaller and smaller until it disappeared into the horizon.

"C'mon Hickok, we've got chores that need to get done." comforted Cody, a hand on his friend's shoulder. "By the way, I have a dollar piece right here. Want to flip for chopping wood?"

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Jimmy entered the bunkhouse, tired from a day full of ups and downs. He missed his lady. She hadn't been gone but a few hours but her presence was wanting. He took off his hat and began unstrapping the belt of one of his guns when he noticed the envelope on the pillow of his bunk. It was addressed to him and he recognized the writing. It was from Elizabeth. He held the letter between his lips as he fastened his belt on his hip and grabbing his hat, headed to the barn for his palomino.

He sat at the lake, their favorite spot. How she enjoyed the serenity of that place. How many memories had been made here. He held the letter in his hand feeling the edges of it with his fingers. What was this about? he wondered.

He opened the envelope, and took out its content. Unfolding the letter he began to read:

Jimmy sat there and read the letter over and over again. Yes, he would guard their love in his heart always never forgetting all that they had shared. Elizabeth had been a special woman to him and that she would always be.

As it is with all long distance romances, they start strong but in the end seem to trail off. The ocean that separated them physically in time separated them wholly. As the months passed by, the lines of communication became lesser and lesser and attentions were diverted in other directions. Jimmy's and Elizabeth's paths would never cross again, but the summer they shared together, had become one with their souls and was never forgotten.