Hot Summer Night

[lexieredefined]

Closed for Lazorrath

It was a scorching summer day. Beth Russell sat in the shade of the large oak tree on her family farm watching her brothers and their friends talk among themselves. Beth knew her father was choosing among her brothers' friends for a suitable match for her and her sister. She had only hoped it would be the dashing Mr. Charles Edwards. Her blue eyes watched Charles from behind her fan.

"Beth, really, you are going to burn a hole in the man if you keep staring like that," her friend Eliza nudged her playfully. Beth groaned, caught. She skillfully turned and fanned herself, "I don't know what you are talking about." She grinned at Eliza and the rest of the girls sitting with her. "Besides, I could stare at your fiance if you'd rather," she teased knowing Eliza didn't have a fiance or a prospect of one. Eliza made a face and rose with a huff, "Beth, really, you can be so mean sometimes." Beth leaned back, closed her eyes, and started fanning herself, "Well at least she created a bit of a breeze when she left." What she didn't see from across the yard was her brothers' friend Jacob Rawlings burning a hole in her.

Later that night, Beth's older sister Mary helped her unlace her dress. Beth practically cried in pleasure when Mary unlaced her stays and she felt the fine boning come away from her skin. Mary rubbed Beth's' ribs as she had done for her a few minutes prior, "I know Daddy wants us to be dressed our best at all times, but he really doesn't understand how horrible these gowns are in the summer." Beth whimpered when her sister stopped massaging her petite frame, but began the ritual of unpinning her long blonde hair. She stood at the window of their room in her shift, the light of the moon shining through the thin fabric. Looking down into the yard, she saw her brothers and their friends who were staying a few nights running down through the yard. She knew Charles was with them.

"Mary! They boys are going to the lake! Let's go with them!" she cried. Mary tutted, "You know better Bethie. We can't do that. Even if it is a hundred degrees." Beth poked her lower lip out. "Please Mary! It's so hot!" "Beth..." Beth got down on her knees next to Mary knowing she was giving. "Please?" Mary grabbed her hand, "Oh alright, but we are going to the complete opposite end of the lake, do you hear me? It's plenty big for all of us as long as we stay in separate places."

Once they reached the lake Mary and Beth both slipped out of their shifts and stepped into the water. They could hear the echos of the boys at the other end of the lake whooping and hollering. The girls peacefully floated in the water enjoying the stillness and cooling effect. Eventually Mary grew tired, "Beth, come on, let's go back." "But I want to stay. Isn't this so wonderful?" "Yes, it's lovely, but I'm very tired and want to go to bed." Beth continued to float, "Then go. I know my way back." Mary frustrated with her sister swam to the bank and put her shift back on, "Fine, but don't stay too much longer."

Beth smiled to herself and counted slowly in her head. She would give Mary a little bit of time to leave and then she would make her way down to the other end of the lake. She didn't know why, but she wanted to. Being out like this made her feel so naughty. She heard and felt the water move around her so she flipped into a treading position, "Mary?" A deep voice came from a direction behind her, "No. You shouldn't be out here alone. It's not safe." "Who's there!? Show yourself!" she demanded keeping all but her head below the water. Slowly Jacob made his way to her. "Hello Beth," he said, his eyes full of lust. Beth felt a scream on back of her throat.

 

[Lazorrath]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZO1SGvFSgZQ (I like putting music with my intro's) Helps me get into my writing and my characters head.)

Gazing over the country side, on the top of an old oak tree was a well hidden owl. It stared as the moon was rising, the sky illuminated a blue with heavenly bed of stars blanketing it all. With piercing yellow eyes it darted stayed ever so still looking for prey to feed upon. This evening had all manners of creatures foraging, hunting and skulking. One creature earned its right to be among them in an uneasy harmony. A black stallion galloped along through the treea with a rider wearing a wide brimmed hat that had seen some age, three hawk feathers weaved into the cap. The rider wore a plain long sleeved shirt with the arms rolled up; over that a dark brown vest with weaved in utility pockets. He wore a pair of tan leather pants and black boots with heavy spurs. Gloved hands held into the reins showing long, lean arms. A gold chain came over his vest into one of his pockets.

The man on the black stallion had long light brown hair that almost came to his shoulders. A growing stubble of facial hair was all over him, but a concentration on his chin for a small beard was on his face. Cold hazel eyes stared straight ahead as he rode along griping the reins tight. He had been riding from the train station for some time; the stallion was a pretty price but well worth it. It earned its horseshoes in the speed they were making through rough terrain. On his belt was a Navy Colt Brass .44 pistol with a walnut finish in a brown leather stirrup. Rigged to the side of the horse was a Henry rifle sharing a similar walnut finish.

Several hours of riding he knew he should be getting close to the Russell Farm. He was on some higher ground at this point and he stopped his horse briefly as he looked up to the night sky. He was lucky this evening for it to be such a clear night and the moon giving him some light. The rider listened briefly for a moment. He could hear the sound of cattle in the distance; knowing he was close he could use a break from riding for so long. The black stallion trotted to a nearby try; the rider lifted his leg slowly and stepped down. On the back of his horse was a large set of gear; he quickly found his canteen to drink of some water.

A long sigh left his lips, few men could ride since midday and continue riding to this hour. Reaching into his vest he found his bag of tobacco with a some wraps. With quick expert fingers he began to roll himself a cigarette; once it was rolled he manifested a match quick to light. With a few puffs it was lit and he took a long drag. As he breathed in the aroma of the tobacco he shook the match and stomped it on the ground. The rider began to look around his settings, they were on some higher ground so he had a small vantage of what was ahead.

The rider took a few steps away from his horse; the stallion stood obediently. It was funny, maybe a year ago he was around these parts. Not too far from here he could remember taking his men trying to set an ambush for Union soldiers. If you looked hard enough there may still have been trees with large bullet holes blown into them. As he thought back to his present settings he couldn't help but notice a new noise. He heard people splashing in water. A small smile came on his face.

"Seems that old bat of a shop keep wasn't a liar after all. Damn...i owe him a whiskey." A chuckle left his lips for the shopkeeper who helped him remember this back route; and the other that he had made it. May had been a little late but he was sure Mr. Russell wouldn't be bothered too much by it. The rider had to take a moment and reached for the gold chain near the collar of his shirt. Pulling on it revealed a gold pocket watch with a turquoise bead hanging from it. Clicking it open with one hand and bringing his cigarette close to see the time. As he did so there was a black and white photo in the top of the watch. It was of a women with long blonde hair, a small smile to her and the face of an angel.

The rider closed it quickly but he then spun the watch around, on the back in small letters the words Cyrus Mason decorated the back. Staring the heavy eyes, he forgot about the world for a moment. A strong hand gripped the watch then quickly tucked it away. The man went back to the cigarette and look to the direction that the sounds lead him. As he approached and jumped back on his horse, he began to make his way to the sounds. The farm should not be far....what a strange change in his life.

Near a town, with people who called each other family. His family has been people who could carry a gun and not die of a bullet or illness for the last decade of his life. He wondered if he was ready for that sort of change....was God ready for him to change? Can a man really change he wondered, time will make you older no doubt. But do we really change? The horse slowly trotted forward in the general direction. From the lake the shop keep said the farm was just northeast. Cyrus wondered if he was ready for something like this. Ready to have a calm life for once.

 

[lexieredefined]

Beth felt a tremor of fear run through her body. Jacob was only a few feet from her and the look in his eyes was like nothing she'd ever seen from him... or any man for that matter. She tried to calmly tread the water, hoping to slowly propel herself back to bank.

"Jake! You scared me! Why aren't you down there with the rest of the boys?" she asked. Jacob reached out toward Beth, not coming any closer, but trying to gauge the distance between them, "Why aren't you at the Big House asleep?"

"Probably for the same reason you and my brothers aren't," she replied with a big of haughtiness in her voice and emphasis on the word 'brothers'. Maybe I could dive under the water, she thought, but I think Jacob is a good swimmer. Jacob, slightly insulted that Beth would again act too good for him, took the moment of hesitation and grabbed for her. He wrapped his arm around her waist pulling her tightly to him.

At first Beth was too startled to scream but then Jacob put his hand over her mouth. Panic quickly set in. She could feel Jacob's naked body against hers... and something hard against her thigh. Jacob was trying to keep them both afloat, swim to the bank, and keep Beth's mouth covered. Beth was struggling as much as possible despite the incredible hold Jacob had on her waist.

She felt her knee hit something between Jacob's legs and his hold loosened. She push away from him and swam like her life depended on it. Fingers wrapped around her ankle. She managed to scream before her head was pushed under the water.

 

[Lazorrath]

Cyrus and his stallion could now see the lake in sight and they weren't too far. He knew his horse was gonna be thirsty just as he was. Hearing the louder splashes and voices, best not to startle them and keep to himself. He headed to the other side of the lake but as he was going along he suddenly heard that loud scream and it absorbed his attention. He tried squinting down the lake and with the moonlight he saw someone else in the water. He didn't like the feeling in his gut and so he slapped at the reigns and poked with his spurs.The horse rushed like lightning close to the waters edge.

Soon enough he was at the waters edge and he could see there was splashing of some kind. He reached back and grabbed a sturdy rope he had. He flew into action, having the experience he had he knew the sooner you act the more lives you save. Hesitation kills a man or a woman worse a child. Soon dropping off his horse he was at the waters edge and he gave out a yell.

"Hey!" His voice echoed easily, yelling battle commands over gun fire and cannons gave him plenty of practice. A deep strong voice went out, no doubt the whole lake could hear it. Birds and other night life might have scurried off. The glow of his cigarette fell to the ground as he spit it out.

Cyrus was already getting the rope ready with a lasso; his arm extended as much as possible going in wide circles. "I gotta rope; GRAB ON!" As he stared he saw that there were two people in the water. One of them was a bigger fellow; but he saw slender feminine arms and legs. He had seen enough struggles and the cynic in him began to build a scene in his head.

Luckily the scowl on his face for the time being was hidden by the night sky and his hat. For now though, together or not he was gonna break up this little get together. Never let your enemy know too much; might just save your life. For now he went with his little charade and threw the rope they're way. It flew with accuracy in their direction not being too far away.

 

[lexieredefined]

Beth felt like her lungs were going to explode. She tried to claw at Jacob's body, but in her panic she just clawed at air and water. She felt something hit the water near her and tried desperately to reach it. Jacob had released his hold on her head and she came to the surface sputtering and gasping for air. No sooner had she taken in a breath of sweet air, he clamped his hand over her mouth and pulled her to him. He was treading water but this time had turned Beth's arm painfully behind her back so she wouldn't thrash around.

Jacob looked to the man on the bank of the lake, "What are you doing? This ain't your place. You're disturbing my wife and I. Go on now and we won't call the law on you." Beth's heart soared. Who was here? Not her brothers from the way Jacob was talking. But if this person heard her scream then maybe her brothers did too. More help would be on the way. She hoped so. Jacob was hurting her arm so badly.

From the way Jacob had her pressed against him, she couldn't see who he was talking to, but she hoped he would help her. She hoped he would see that Jacob was lying. She tried to scream again, but Jacob's fingers dug into her cheeks and his thumb covered her nose cutting off her air again.

 

[Lazorrath]

Cyrus stared at Jacob with the eyes of a hell hound, no smile or grimace in his face for the time being. Being a badge helps you look at your surroundings, each little thing was a clue. He didn't bring in the rope for the time being. The cigarette not far still holding a fair glint to it. He felt a fire in him rise and his fist clinched. A small exhaled chuckle followed by a smile came over him. He took a step closer to the waters edge.

"You sure do hold your wife in quite the uh..."romantic" way. I've heard a woman needing to keep her mouth shut but I think she can do it by herself friend." He stared down at Jacob letting the clinched hand now rest upon his revolver. He would never use it in thing such as this but a little intimidation could go a long way.

"Ain't no need for law here...especially for you my friend. And I know Mr. Russell wouldn't like people who aren't expected. I'm am...are you my friend? And are you expected to be found with her on his property." A bit of a bluff but he had to play it straight. Cyrus was expected by Mr. Russell but he didn't know how it would play out. Stone cold glare came from him now; no friendly look on his face as he thumbed the walnut finish. He was lucky it was a moonlit night; if there had been cloud cover this may have gone terrible.

Cyrus didn't budge, not even an inch. The light trail of cigarette smoke wafted around him. Those hazel eyes had seen enough stand offs. "Lets keep it simple tonight friend...and we can all go on our ways." One last time to keep things amicable; then Cyrus might have to get a bit loud.

 

[lexieredefined]

Jacob could see that he didn't have the advantage in this situation. He whispered in Beth's ear, "This isn't over. And if you speak a word of this to your father..." He tightened his grip on her arm until Beth thought it would snap. She tried to whimper and assent but was beginning to fade from the lack of air. Jacob released Beth and swam away from her toward the other end of the lake. He looked back at Cyrus on the bank, "I have no quarrel with you." He disappeared under the water.

Beth gulped in air as the blackness started to fade from her vision. Remembering that she needed to tread water, she feebely kicked her legs. She looked toward Cyrus standing on the bank like her knight in shining armor. "Thank... you," she sputtered between breaths.

 

[Lazorrath]

Seeing at her struggle he would not wait as soon as the attacker was swimming away he would begin to wade into the water to get her. He would help her out onto the bank and look over at the scumbag swimming away. Before he would dip his head under the water Cyrus gave him a clear message. He would have a quarrel alright; Cyrus pointed at his eyes then pointed straight back at him. Beating the tar out of him would teach him to never touch a woman again.

For now though the woman was completely soaked and probably cold. Poor girl could have gotten pneumonia because of that punk. Cyrus quickly ran to get a blanket he had on his pack. "Gonna be alright...just take deep breaths." He whirled the blanket around her to help get the excess off her. Now that the incident had passed he now finally got to see who just needed his help.

She was quite a looker no doubt in that; with those baby blues looking up at him he was left a little speechless for a moment. When she finally spoke in that soft voice it brought him back to reality. "Your welcome mam...do you always take midnight swims with people looking to strangle ya?" Now that he wasn't yelling he had a pleasant tone in his strong voice. He spoke to lighten the mood; a smile crept up on his face now that the danger was gone. An angry streak went through; he couldn't help but think he should have shot him when he had the chance.

 

[lexieredefined]

Feet solidly on ground again, Beth felt safer. Shaking with fright, she gratefully pulled the blanket around her despite the heat of the night. She looked up at the man in front of her feeling incredibly small but surprisingly safe. Even in the dark, his eyes captured her. They were hard and serious, but concerned. And gorgeous.

Gingerly rubbing her sore arm under the blanket she replied, "No, I don't. It's just my sister and I were swimming and then she grew tired so she returned to the house. Then Jacob just appeared and I don't know what he meant to do..." she rambled. "If you had not come to my aid..." Beth burst into tears with the sudden shock of the night hitting her.

 

[Lazorrath]

Cyrus knew what that man intended; no need to darken this moment with what could have been. The way she spoke she was thinking it to see her cry it caused him to get a little uncomfortable. He stayed close knowing she was pretty shaken. The way she grabbed at her arm he knew best to avoid it. She knew his name; made him all the easier to find. He would have to pay Jacob a visit soon.

A part of him just wanted to let her get it all out but he knelt down beside her and put a hand on her non injured shoulder. "Hey its ok...he's a coward and he knows it. Your fine now, no need to let your mind wander." He had a bit of a southern accent but he made sure to seek a sure smile about her. "I'll get you home and if I ain't assumin too much I reckon home is at the Russell Farm?" He then began to help her up and lead her to his horse.

The stallion shook his head and let out a quick snort; Cyrus whistled and the horse came over to him. Cyrus place a hand on her back and the other on her unharmed arm; just in case she might need the support. "Whenever your ready mam, I help you get on so we can get you home."

 

[lexieredefined]

"Oh my shift. Just a moment please." Beth walked over to where her shift was lying discarded on the bank. Blushing she picked it up. He had seen her naked! He wasn't saying anything though. Or being strange like the Jacob was. She contemplating putting the shift back on but she figured the blanket was coving more than her shift would. She tucked the blanket around her tighter as she walked back to where Cyrus stood.

She smiled shyly up at him, thankful for the darkness so he couldn't she the flush of embarrassment on her face. "Yes, Russell Farm is home. I'm Beth. Beth Russell."

 

[Lazorrath]

Cyrus had gotten an eyeful that was for sure; she was gorgeous beyond beautiful. The night hid some of the finer details but the last thing she needed was another pervert. He had to stop himself from gazing at her form while she went to get her shift. Luckily he was a gentlemen and knew to keep to himself. The way Jacob handled her she wouldn't want more on her; he had seen victims of crimes like this it was never a pretty sight.

As she walked to get her shift he looked to the cigarette that still was half there. He picked it back up and took a drag from it. Beth...it was a pleasant name to his ears. It was good to see her smile; no tears ever needed to be on that face. "Mason...Cyrus Mason. You're fathers hired me to help the farm out." He then offered a hand to her to help her on the horse.

"Come on Beth, I'll give you a hand." He offered to help her on his horse; he extended a hand with a pleasant smile on his face. A man could get lost in those eyes. The black stallion was a beautiful creature it looked over at Beth with those big dark eyes.

 

[lexieredefined]

She tentatively put out a hand and felt a small thrill when Cyrus' hand closed around hers. "Your horse is a fine one. If you are coming to work for my father he will mark that in your favor. He appreciates a good horseman," she said knowingly.

When Cyrus boosted her into the saddle, she felt a momentary panic realizing her legs were bare. She tried to pull the blanket over the them but couldn't from how she was sitting. Using her shift to cover the tops of her thighs, her calves and feet would just have to show. She giggled at the thought of what Mary would say if she saw her right now. It says about the only thing keeping her from crying again at what happened earlier. That and Cyrus.

 

[Lazorrath]

"In my time I've had plenty of practice." He realized he was putting a bare naked woman on a saddle; he planned a rescue not for this though. Luckily she was able to improvise and with that done he jumped on the horse in front of her. Feeling her body close to his made his heart race for a moment. It had been awhile since he got to take a woman for a horse ride. He had to remind himself to be on good behavior.

However as he looked to her there was a moment where he was quiet and he didn't get the horse to move. He took a drag of his cigarette and blew the smoke away from her. He squeezed the cherry of his cigarette between his fingers. Cyrus reached for the reigns and he gripped them tightly. A soft gentle voice went through his thoughts.

"Cyrus..." He had close his eyes for a moment before he got the horse on the move. With a pinch of his spurs and he gave a quick shout the stallion moved around the lake. The horse move with powerful legs; however Cyrus made sure to control the stallion the didn't want to drop Beth. "Hold on tight Mrs. Russell."

As he spoke before he spoke again he realized that she was still a Russell. She was unmarried, quite a surprise with a woman like her. "Your father spoke about you in his letter. You have quite a blessed family."

 

[lexieredefined]

As the horse began to move Beth wrapped her arms around Cyrus' waist. Without realizing it the blanket was still clutched in each hand leaving her bare chest and stomach pressed into Cyrus' back. She planted her forehead between his shoulder blades for a moment, dying of embarrassment. Her mother would would never forgive her if she saw her like this. She was feeling quite warm as the flush of embarrassment spread.

Lifting her head, "Daddy wrote about us? It's just me, my sister Mary, Mama, Daddy, and Grandmother at home. My brothers are all married but they live close. Mary was engaged but her beau was killed in the war. Do you have family close?" Beth hoped she could keep trival small talk going to keep her mind from her present situation.

 

[Lazorrath]

Feeling her body pressed up against him he was quite glad he sat in front. He could feel the blood coursing his body, he could his member slowly growing. Even in the layers of clothes he wore the pressure of her breast against him was a rush. He quickly focused on their conversation to not think more about her supple body. To feel her arms around his body did not bring feelings of lust...his mind could not help but drift again. A woman had not latched onto him like that in years. The conversation went turned on him quick; he didn't want to lie to her.

She spoke over his family and he found it best to avoid it. "I'm sorry about your loss...but I'm sure he was a decent man. We lost a lot in that war; far more then than the North will care to remember. I was in the fight for the last 3 years as 1st Lieutenant." The war was its own set of bad memories but he managed to survive it without being maimed. He couldn't say the same for many of his men; nor to the many that did not come back home.

Death was something he wanted to stay away from at the moment. "You lived on the farm your whole life?" He asked as he took a sharp right as he began to see lights in the distance. Wouldn't be long now. They quickly began to approach the fence to the land and he wasn't slow down. Soon enough with another kick of his spurs the horse jumped the fence with ease and they were on the Russel Farms estate.

 

[lexieredefined]

Beth tightened her hold on Cyrus when they jumped the fence. Her breasts rubbed against the leather of his vest. It didn't feel good but it didn't feel bad either. Beth felt her face flush again. What is going on with her, she wondered. She must still be foggy from the earlier encounter with Jacob she rationalized.

"Yes the farm is home. I do love it here." Seeing they were nearing the big house, she pressed closer into Cyrus so the could point to an area of trees. "Stop over there. I can sneak back in the house. Then you can go up the house separately. It wouldn't do for you to come riding up with me. Besides some one will be up waiting for you and will show you to your quarters."

 

[Lazorrath]

Cyrus began curve over to the tree line. It was definitely best for her to not be seen like this; especially with him. He pulled on the horse's reigns and the horse slowly came to a halt in the tree line. "Its a nice piece of land; hope to have something like this soon for myself." Feeling her body upon him he didn't know if he should get off the horse to help her. The chance to see her body again one more time thrilled him; he hadn't felt a stir inside himself like this in a while. Women came and went; maybe it was the nature of Beth...who knew?

"Do you need any help Mrs. Russell?" Keep it professional, going on a first name basis with Mr. Russell's daughter might not be a smart idea. He may be old but he no doubt could still handle a gun. Still...if there were more people like her in this area; he knew it might be a friendly place to live. Possibly even talk to Mr. Russell to about selling a bit of his land if he was so inclined. All in do time.
"Sure you're gonna be alright?" He asked before she got of his horse and he made the mistake of looking back.

He quickly looked back ahead and cleared his throat. "I apologize miss."

 

[lexieredefined]

Beth looked down realizing the blanket had slipped from from her shoulder, revealing the milky white skin. She didn't feel overly revealing. In fact she had gowns that showed more shoulder. However she did imagine her grandmother would call this a 'compromising situation' or at least she was pretty sure it would be.

Not quite ready to let go of Cyrus' waist yet, she spoke "The farm is much bigger than just this. The land seems to go on forever some days." She pointed through the trees beyond the main house, her chin resting on Cyrus' shoulder. "The guest house is over there. The workers who stay here live over there. Then just down there are the stables." Beth didn't realize just how lucky her family had come out during and after the war.

With a quiet sigh, she removed her arms from around Cyrus and secured the blanket around her. "Wait. Don't look. I'm going to put my shift back on. I can't go back in the house with your blanket." Beth was young and innocent, so she trusted Cyrus was a gentleman, unlike Jacob. She quickly let the blanket fall around her hips. She looked down and realized her nipples her hard. Strange, she thought. She raised her shift over her head. The arm Jacob had twisted screamed in protest. She let out a pained whimper but got the shift on. "Mr. Mason, I think I'll need help dismounting."

 

[Lazorrath]

Her arms lingered around him as they slow came upon the trees for her. The warmth of the blanket and with her head resting upon his shoulders...he couldn't really speak. Should been quick to move and help her down but the two people seemed to just enjoy the moment. A nostalgia entered his mind and Cyrus let in the moment of weakness. His heart picked up a beat and he couldn't help but imagine Beth as someone else. He could feel some of her hair blow past his neck; he faded in and out of Beth's words about the farm.

Cyrus came back to reality when she asked him not to turn around as she put on the shift. "No problem miss." He kept to his word as he felt her get oriented; the pained whimper almost made him turn. It must have been that arm that Jacob rustled her with. If he saw that bastard again it would be too soon. Cyrus surveyed the land around him until Beth asked for his help again. He gave a knod and he was first to lift his leg over the horse head and land on the ground.

Cyrus oriented himself beside her but he didn't wait for instructions. As soon as her legs were to one side he scooped with his left arm under her thighs. As he began to lower his other arm wrapped around her waist and he slowly lowered her to the ground. He kept eye contact with her as he did to not be tempted to look down her dress. See the breast that had rested on his back would have been an eye full for the young man. But he kept his word and let her feet gently touch the ground.

"You sure you'll be alright to get back to the house Ms. Russell?" Cyrus figured it would be alright; the house wasn't far from here. Just didn't feel right for a girl like her to be walking by herself. She would be quick on her feet he imagined.

"Well...helluva way to introduce each other." Cyrus spoke with a chuckle as he stared into her blue eyes. It was like a pair of sapphires staring at him. He was glad it was dark out to hide the large bulge that had grown between his legs. How was she not married?

 

[lexieredefined]

As Cyrus helped her down from the horse, heat surged through her body. She'd never felt anything like it before. She almost wanted to laugh because he was so sweet and gentlemanly about it. Her feet touched the ground, but all she could think about was his arm around her waist and his beautiful hazel eyes looking into hers.

She looked up at him, pushing her damp blonde hair out of her face. Her shift was hanging limply on her body and she was acutely aware that the thin fabric was separating her from the flesh of his arms. She felt her head swim with feelings that she had no idea what to do with. She knew they were probably bad though.

"Yes, it was interesting," she smiled up at him. "But I am glad for it. You saved me." Driven by an impulse she didn't know existed, she laid her hands on his chest, stood on her tip toes and quickly kissed him. "Thank you." She looked at him for a moment and then as if realizing what she'd done, she stumbled back, clapping her hands over her mouth. "Oh. I'm so sorry!"

 

[Lazorrath]

Cyrus didn't know how to respond at first; he didn't think the girl had it in her. The feeling of her soft lips and her hands on his chest; may have been quick but he savored the first time he had kissed a woman in years. He kept a solid poker face on as she lowered her self from her toes. There was such a soft sweet innocence about her; it made him feel 10 years younger. After she apologized he couldn't help but smile and keeping looking in those eyes of hers.

"No offense taken Mrs. Russell." He tipped his hat to her and soon he jumped back on his horse. He took the blanket and folded it and strapped it on his pack. The blond angel by his side...his mind began to wander in places it shouldn't. He had to see her again.

"Mrs. Russell, I will bid you goodnight. I look forward to seeing you in the morning." His spurs quickly kicked into the stallion and Cyrus let out a quick shout. "Hiyah!" The black stallion soon was off like lightning towards the house but as he did he looked back to Beth one more time. The tresses of her blond hair framing her pretty face. Maybe he did find a nice town to stay at after all.

Soon enough he made his way to the house; seeing that the barn wasn't too far he took his horse. The barn was locked naturally but there was a post to hitch with some water to drink from. It would work for the night; Cyrus undid the belts of the pack and carried it on his shoulder. He hitched his rifle on his side and began walking back to the large house. They had done well given the recent activity in the war. They were one of the lucky ones not to be hit by Sherman's March. An act of cruelty that he had not forgotten.

He walked onto the porch of the house and let his belongings down. He didn't see anyone at the moment and he didn't feel like waking up the house. Cyrus was sure someone would be around in awhile to let him in Mr. Russell was expecting him. So for the time begin he stood underneath the porch and quickly rolled another cigarette.

He could have done it blind folded for as many times he had rolled cigarettes for friends and enemies at times. A flick of his wrist with a match and he small cloud of smoke left his lips. His mind didn't wander to far...that kiss stayed on his mind as well as that body of hers. Prettiest damn woman he had seen in years. He had to see her again...but his thoughts drifted to the picture in the pocket watch.

For the time being he just looked over at the porch at the beautiful night sky; a silent prayer going through his mind.

 

[lexieredefined]

Beth stood in the trees for a moment watching Cyrus leave. She felt dizzy and giddy. Her first kiss. And she was so brazen! She ran like the wind back to the Big House knowing that was where he was heading. Moving swiftly and quietly, she ran through the yard and onto the back porch. She easily tiptoed through the kitchen and up the back stairs. There was a reason her family nicknamed her Hummingbird. She was small, light, and could move so quickly. As a child, her brothers often capitalized on that fact when cookies were being made in the kitchen. It also helped that her baby blues could get her out of almost anything when caught as well.

She swiftly ran down the upstairs hall, past the bedrooms of her parents, her own where her sister slept, displaced by the guests, and her brothers and their wives and children in the remaining rooms. She came around to the front stairs of the house and sat on the top step, curling her legs under her, just in time to see Thomas, her father's right hand man open the door for Cyrus. He had been waiting at the house to welcome him.

She watched silently as the men exchanged a few words, studying Cyrus in light of the candles. He was very handsome indeed. She thought his long hair and beard looked good on him, unlike how most of the men she knew tended to keep their faces clean shaven. He was scruffy, as her grandmother liked to call men who had been on the road for some time, but she found she liked it. His face however, showed a hardness and sorrow that she couldn't see in the dark when they were outside. While it startled her, she also found it made her heart go out to him.

As Thomas and Cyrus walked out the front door, shutting it behind them, Beth went back to her room where Mary was soundly asleep. Beth crawled in bed next to Mary, ignoring her still damp locks, and lay looking at the ceiling. She lightly touched her lips and secretly wondered what it would be like to have Cyrus laying next to her instead of Mary.

 

[Lazorrath]

Cyrus was half way through his cigarette when he heard boot steps from behind the front door. Standing up straight he waited to see who it might be. He saw a tall man with a bushy greying mustache. Wearings leather pants and a plaid red and black shirt he gave a nod to Cyrus.

"Cyrus Mason?" He asked with a deep voice that held quite the years of experience. Thomas had to be in late 30's by the look of it. He took a few steps to the opposite side of the opening of the porch. He leaned against a column as he looked over Cyrus.

"Yes sir." Cyrus said plainly, the two men weren't one for unnecessary words. Thomas held his hand out and Cyrus returned a firm strong hand shake. Taken lightly by some, Cyrus knew a good hand shake was the beginning of good friends especially if he was gonna be working for Thomas.

"Thomas...pleasure to meet ya Cyrus. Imagine your ready for some shut eye; long day of work tomorrow." He said with a smirk; Cyrus knew that they would ride him pretty hard. It was all part of the game. You took the early lickings to earn the respect of men around you. Cyrus didn't let his achievements precede him; pride did not become of him.

"Pleasure Thomas...been a long ride from Weston." Cyrus took a long drag of his cigarette before he picked up his pack. Thomas and his new ranch hand began to walk off the porch to the quarters.

"Your timing couldn't be better...with the war done we been needing strong hands. Especially with our work hands being freed by the government. Not gonna lie we been having to work our boys to the bone."

"Moneys tight I imagine but Russell's land seems to be looking okay."

"We keep this place working as we can. Just plenty of work to be done; then having to watch the herds till morning. Needless to say coffee becomes water for us." Thomas gave a warning with a chuckle. He wondered if this hand would be scared off by the work; he looked young but he knew Cyrus was a soldier.

"Coffee is my sleep and water after the nights I've had. Don't bother me none as long as someone is cooking. Could be fried dirt as long as its warm" He let a puff of smoke leave his lips with a smirk of his own.

Thomas chuckled, he was confident that was for sure. He would see how Cyrus would hold up in the days to come. "Heard you served for the South?"

"Yes I did. First Lieutenant 19th infantry." He wore that number with pride; he fought for those men under his command. Especially during the last months of the war. The 19th was more then just infantry though; him and small teams would go across enemy lines to sabotage cannons and burn down ammo depots.

Thomas chided in. "Imagine this might be vacation for ya." And it was true apart of it was to get away from fighting. However Cyrus knew there was one last fight he hadn't yet finished; and would see it end.

"The way you make it sound; I might as well grab my uniform." The two men soon were at the quarters. It was a small one room house but it had a roof at least. It needed some touching up no doubt about that. "It ain't much Cyrus, but it doesn't leak when it rains and its closest to outhouse. We start at five so make sure your ready."

"Will do....night Thomas." Both the men gave a nod and Cyrus was soon entering in his quarters. By the look of it it might have been a tool shed they hollowed out. It would do though, it had blankets and a few candles. Cyrus took a light to one of the candles to give him some light. He unloaded some of the simple thing he might need from his pack. He was getting pretty tired from riding all day. So as he disrobed he snubbed out the rest of his cigarette against a old bucket.

Taking off his shirt showed a lean cut body that was trained by years of fighting and living off the land. His abs showed well in the candle light, but it wasn't without scars. He was a myriad of scars and bullet wounds. He had to look at the scars his body held, his hand trailed over a few of them. He left his pants on and kicked off his boots. As he laid down on the weak bed his mind drifted back to Beth. That soft kiss and those delicate hands. Soon enough his eyes would drift and his dreams would be sweet...at least for a small while.

 

[lexieredefined]

The following morning came too soon considering how late it was when Beth had gone to bed. Still, it was morning and that meant she had to get ready. It was going to be a busy day. There was to be a gathering that evening at the Russell place. The war had hit the area hard, but not as hard as most according to her brothers. Still her father had been born and raised her as had his father before him and his father before him. He felt it was his duty to try to bring prosperity and people back to the neighboring town and area. So night he was planning to have the local families and merchants over to discuss rebuilding and to hopefully bring a little goodness back into lives. Beth also knew this meant she and Mary would have to help their mother where ever possible in the mean time and then be on display that evening.

Beth dressed in a simple gown, a clean shift beneath it. Mary frowned at Beth, "Your hair is a mess! Could you not have plaited it before you went to sleep?" Beth absently touched her hair, "Oh, no. I was so tired." Mary gave a resigned sigh, "Well come sit down, I'll comb it out and plait it for you."

Beth smiled and kissed her big sister on the cheek, "You are so good to me, Mary." As Mary began to comb out Beth's long hair, Beth thought of the night before. She was rather confused about a lot of things.

"Mary?"

"Hmm?"

"Can I ask you something?"

"Of course, Bethie. What is it?"

"What happens when a man and a woman lie together?"

Mary froze mid brush stroke. Beth hastily continued, "Well, it's no secret Daddy is looking for me a beau and well... I should know these things! Mama acts like it's a mortal sin to talk about it even though she's had seven children. Well, ten if you count the babes."

Mary walked in front of Beth scandalized, "Beth! You shouldn't say such things. And why are you asking me anyway? I'm not married." "No, but you and Madge are so close. I though maybe she might have told you something."

Beth looked down at the floor knowing she might have pushed Mary too far. She was always pretty good at getting what she wanted, but this was a bit much even for her. Mary looked at the wall lost in thought, walked back around behind Beth and started brushing her hair again. With a sigh she said, "Madge says there really isn't much to it. You just lie there while he lies on top of you and puts his, um, thing in you."

Beth felt her face and chest flush with embarrassment, "That sounds awful! Does it hurt?" Mary started weaving her fingers through Beth's hair, sectioning for the braids, "The first time yes, but it gets better after. But I don't think the lying there gets better."

"It sounds fun for the men," Beth commented. Mary deftly tied off Beth's hair and with a pat on her head, "Well that's why you always hear men making the bawdy jokes and not the women, I suppose. Enough of this. Let's get down to help Mama."

Beth sat on the bench for a moment listening to Mary's receding footsteps feeling even more confused. Some of that sounded scary, like what she felt with Jacob... but with Cyrus it was so different! Surely if a kiss felt that wonderful then anything else would too. She felt herself flush again. No sense in thinking about things like that. While she desperately hoped to see him again, she almost felt like last night was a dream... one she didn't want to wake up from.