Southern Rhapsody (Closed for Homerun2611)

[scarlettnuit]

Lavenia strolled through the gardens of her father’s plantation, thankful for the breeze that now ruffled through the Spanish moss and maple trees. She moved into the shade of one of the largest maples on the property, the one for which their plantation was named: Sugar Maple Springs. The summer had been hot and sticky this year, and she was thankful for the breeze and the shade today. Her brother was due to arrive today and Lavenia couldn’t wait to see him.

He was also bringing a friend along, one he had made when he was at West Point a few years ago. It was because of their impending visitors that she had worn her new dress, a fine white linen confection with pale pink roses patterned across the fabric. While normally she would have worn a closed neck, it was too hot, and so a small patch of her neck and throat were exposed in the neckline. The pink accented her flaming red hair, something her mother had cursed and was now hidden under a straw bonnet. It was the devil’s hair her mother had proclaimed and was clearly a gift from her father’s Irish lineage.

While Lavenia loved dresses and jewelry and hats, as most women did, she also loved riding, cards, and sword play. The latter activities were secret of course, and it was only when her brother Frank visited that she got to indulge in them. However, she supposed with this friend coming, she would be forced to remain completely lady-like. She sighed soft and spun the parasol that rested on her shoulder; Frank had promised to teach her to shoot on his next visit, though there was no hope of that now.

She was lost in this thought when she heard the sound of horse hooves clattering down the red clay drive. She quickly walked to the wrap around front porch, where she was supposed to be waiting, and sat down in one of the wicker chairs. As if on cue, Marigold, their housekeeper, brought out a pitcher of cold lemonade and poured her a glass.

“I saw you out there Miss. Lavenia, if you keep this up, there won’t be enough buttermilk in the state to keep your skin milky,” she said authoritatively.

“Yes Mari, I know,” Lavenia replied with lament. Why was it that boys got to do all the fun things while she was stuck being just another pretty piece of decoration?

“Now when Frank and his friend get here, I expect you to welcome them since your paw ain’t here.”

“I know,” Lavenia replied, having been “the lady of the house” since her mother died last year.

With that, Lavenia stood on the corner of the porch and waited for her brother and his friend to arrive so that she could go through all the necessary motions and get them settled.


____

the dress (realize the dates are a bit off, but this is for fun guys ) - https://www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/96434

 

[Homerun2611]

Jackson "Blackjack" Rutherford, was indeed a graduate of prestigious West Point, with honors no less. How he got those honors was a bit less than honorable but that is a story for a different day.

One thing he was proud of was his friendship with Frank Endicott. They were both men who liked to indulge in certain types of play, play that indulged their vices, women, drinking and gambling, although in the grand scheme of things Frank was far better behaved than Jack. Both had the benefit, not unlike the vast majority of their classmates, in coming from wealthy families, in the day the most important component in being accepted into the venerable service academy. Frank's money was Southern plantation, as Jack remembered, cotton or tobacco or maybe both. Jack's was distillery, or more specifically, about the best damned Kentucky bourbon you could buy.

There was no other way to really put it, Blackjack Rutherford was a scoundrel. He had at one time or another been in nearly every saloon, gambling joint and brothel between Louisville and New Orleans. As not really one to handle the books or production, Jack did distribution, read sales, and had done a fine job of having his BlackJack brand in every saloon bordering the line that would soon demark the Union versus the Confederacy. To say he was not a fan of any upcoming war would be an understatement. There was simply no way that was good for business, and worse yet, Jack feared having to pick a side and due to the West Point training, actually be forced to fight in the damn thing.

While realizing slavery was basically wrong, Jack didn't have a particularly strong or passionate moral compass. He also had seen the lives of free blacks in the North many serving factories or working as indentured servants, and that path was not very attractive either. Soon he thought the South could come to an acceptable alternative to slavery and we could all go about our business of drinking, fucking and general merriment across both territories.

Frank and Jack had been writing and Frank was headed home and invited Jack. Frank would swing by the Rutherford horse farms in Lexington, Jack's father's place, and grab him and then Jack could travel down and see Frank's home and Frank said he knew many saloon and inn keepers, not to mention the gambling dens and whore houses where Jack might find some new accounts.

Supposedly Frank also had a younger sister, who was both pretty as a peach and full of piss and vinegar. A delightful combination if Jack had ever heard one. He gladly accepted the invitation, but the road down had been a bit more frought with danger than either had expected. They had been a half days ride away from Frank's house when they had stopped for some dinner and what they thought was a fun night of gambling and potentially women. Frank had won big, Jack had won a bit, but as they went to gather their winnings the other three men had pulled guns.

They shot their way out, the three losers ultimately dying on the floor, but in the skirmish Frank had taken a pistol shot into the shoulder. They had taken off, camping a bit out of town to rest and treat Frank. However by morning he was burning up with fever. Jack put him on the back of his horse and kept the reins of Franks horse with him. It was almost two PM when they rode slowly up the entrance to Sugar Maple Springs. What should have been a welcome home, was quickly shattered, as Jack was yelling, "We need to get a Doctor here quick, Frank has been shot and his burning up with fever!"

 

[scarlettnuit]

Her mood turned from mildly annoyed, to scared, and then furious as the man, she supposed was her brother’s friend, came storming down the drive with her brother across his saddle.

“Marigold! Tell Uncle James to go get the doctor! Then get someone out here to help bring in Master Frank!” she yelled as she ran out to the horse, 3 servants close behind moving to get Frank off of Jack’s horse.

Just as her brother was removed from the horse, Lavenia’s piercing green eyes looked up at Jack, narrowed in anger.

“How dare you put my brother in harms way. If it were up to me I’d have you horse whipped, but as my paw is looking forward to your visit, I suggest you get inside,” she practically hissed as a small boy came to take Jack’s horse to the stables.

Lavenia then ran into the house, holding her skirts as she bounded up the to the front porch, then into the house and up to Frank’s room. It was there that she found her father already at work on getting Frank’s shirt off to assess the wound.

“I sent Uncle James for Dr. Conroy,” she told her father in a gentle and courteous tone, one the exact opposite of what she had given Jack only moments earlier.

As she looked down at her brother, who was passed out from fever, she managed to put on a cool façade that hid the anger she felt at the man that was to be their guest for the next month, or however long they both decided to stay.

The rest of her afternoon was spent seeing to Frank, making sure he received the medication that the doctor had given him for pain, and making sure that cold compresses were constantly placed on him. Once she was satisfied that he would be ok for a few moments without her, Marigold told her it was time to dress for supper.

She wanted to ask what the point was when there were clearly other things to be seen to, but she knew better than to argue with the woman who was much like a second mother to her. She went to her room and was dressed in a dark green silk for dinner that left her milky shoulders bare. Her hair was pinned up and she donned a pair of emerald earrings and a black lace choker to accentuate her dress.

Walking into the dining room, she saw Jack again for the first time. For a moment her face tensed in anger, but it was soon smoothed by mask she had learned to wear.

“Good evening,” she said cordially as she was sat across the table from the man.

Her father then walked in and moved toward Jack with a big smile and an outstretched hand.

“Well after all these years I finally get to meet you Jack Rutherford!” he grinned as he pumped Jack’s hand and then sat down, “Frank has always told me what a great friend you were. I’m so glad he was traveling with you and not alone when those bastards attacked him,” he said, placing his napkin on his lap as the first course was served.

“I’m just so relieved he’s going to be ok. Doc Conroy is an excellent physician and the fever has already started to go down,” he said and then took a spoonful of soup, “now I have to hear the story,” he grinned.

 

[Homerun2611]

“How dare you put my brother in harms way. If it were up to me I’d have you horse whipped, but as my paw is looking forward to your visit, I suggest you get inside,” Jack smiled and looked into those eyes filled with fire, and the full bosom heaving in and out with righteous indignation, so this was Lavinia! Of course this was not how she presented herself in the moment, she was in fine summer dress, with only the slightest bit of her cleavage visible. No this was the way Jack liked to see women, attractive women at least, how they might look once he got them going, the look in their eyes just before he bedded them.

Of course, this was his dear friend's, perhaps mortally wounded dear friend's little sister, what kid of man in this perilous situation, sees a girl in distress and can only think about how good those luscious red lips would look sealed around his substantial cock? Not most men certainly, but Blackjack Rutherford, most definitely.

"Miss Lavinia I presume, your brother's description did not do you justice. I assure you, your brother and I tend to enjoy a life that frequents harms way, and we like it like that, and trust each other to get ourselves out. This is not the first bullet for either of us, and unless we change out ways, which is most unlikely, I dare say it won't be the last. Thank you though for your...let's say impassioned welcome...but please go tend to your brother and I look forward to seeing MORE of you later."

As he spoke Jack let his eyes take in the entirety of the package before him. The gunfight had rudely broken up the evening, long before Frank and Jack could take their winnings upstairs to enjoy the remainder of the establishment's accommodations, so Jack's ball were a bit on the blue side as he looked at the buxom, fiery young sister. He wondered if she had truly ever enjoyed being ridden hard and put away wet, or if she had broken most if not all of the riders who had attempted in vain to saddle her up.

Off she went in a huff, he most clearly had not made a favorable first impression, but that also was not unfamiliar territory, he usually needed the alcohol to be freely flowing for someone to truly appreciate his real charm. He went inside and was taken to a stately guest room. Old Frank lived well, Jack would enjoy it here. He assumed outside of Lavinia there was also no shortage of other young belles around, and he had also noticed the fine form of some of the younger house staff who he assumed the master of the house had chosen for more than their culinary and housekeeping skills.

Jack unpacked his bag, and was given a bath. He smiled as the younger servant undressed him, the way her eyes were drawn to and lingered on his impressively large cock. "I am going to be here for a bit of time, and at least early on I expect my bed will be quite available." The slender, yet buxom 18 year old only giggled. "Well thank you Sir, but I believe my job is to get you presentable for dinner."

Jack was clean as a whistle and dressed in clean clothes as they went into dinner. “Good evening,” he heard from Lavinia, clearly displaying the good graces of her upbringing, while concealing the revulsion he assumed he momentarily conjured. "I certainly hope it will be " he said with the confidence of a man who liked to stir things up and was unabashed in displaying his lusty expectations.

“Well after all these years I finally get to meet you Jack Rutherford!...Frank has always told me what a great friend you were. I’m so glad he was traveling with you and not alone when those bastards attacked him,” Jack moved toward the distinguished man, a man he knew his friend both idolized and held in the highest respect. "Colonel Endicott, I can't tell you what a privilege it is to meet you, Frank speak so highly of you, you and your entire family..." He took a quick glance at Lavinia his eyes truthfully more on her ful chest than her beautiful eyes, "...I appreciate your welcoming me into your beautiful mansion, I only wish I could have made a less dramatic entrance."

“I’m just so relieved he’s going to be ok. Doc Conroy is an excellent physician and the fever has already started to go down,...now I have to hear the story,” Jack was not surprised but was relieved, Frank Endicott was not only a friend but was his closest friend. They were as close to brothers, both knew their direction after life was as likely headed South as North, which did not scare them at all. They both sucked the marrow from the bone, and were good men at heart, and they would let the chips fall where they may on judgment day, but neither was in any hurry to hear the verdict.

"Well who the bastards were might be in the eye of the beholder.." Jack grinned, "...Frank and to a lesser extent I won the money fair, not dealing from the bottom, no aces up the sleeve. We gambled straight up and the men didn't like losing. However, it was more a factor of the ladies in the room, and the one that Frank particularly hit it off with. Turns out she was one of the men, actually the man who lost the most, wive's. But you know your son, marital status was never much of a deterrent in his choices, and she was one fine specimen, and clearly interested. I understand your son is a chip off the old block in his ability to attract the ladies..." Jack raised his glass in deference to the older cocksman at the table. "..I probably should not be telling such tales with your innocent daughter in the room, so forgive me sir. However, one thing led to another, and the one Gentleman, as Frank was collecting his winnings, stood up and pulled a gun, Frank never had a chance to reach for his pistol. I got the husband before he ever got off a shot, and the second one too, but the third hit Frank before I could take him down. The whole altercation took less than 10 seconds. Sir, I am very sorry about your son, he is my closest and dearest friend. However, this is not his first taste of lead, nor mine, nor probably our last. But I knew if I could get him home, you could help him. He has a might strong constitution...and I am pleased to hear he is already on the mend. I just wish I could have done more...."

 

[scarlettnuit]

As the day worn on, it was obvious to Lavenia that this “Black Jack” Rutherford was a scoundrel of the highest order. Most of the day she had wanted nothing more than to slap him soundly across the face and send him home. Her father’s chumminess with Jack at supper didn’t help her mood.

She listened to the story as Jack told it, her father, missing his old glory days, hung on every word. She did her best to keep her mouth shut, but her infamous temper was rising as she heard about the danger her brother was put in.

“Sounds to me like you two were reckless, and that’s putting it quite mildly,” she said as the soup was taken away and the next course, baked cod, was brought to the table.

“Now now my dear, they’re just a couple of boys having fun,” the Colonel chuckled, ignoring his daughter’s death stare, “Like he said, it wasn’t the first injury Frank will have, won’t be the last.”

Lavenia wanted to slam her fists into the table and leave, but she refused to allowed that retched Jack see her in such an upset state. She was about to eat a piece of her fish when her father spoke again.

“I’m actually quite glad you two are here. I need to go into town on some business and with you and Frank here to look over Lavenia and the house, I don’t feel so worried about it.”

She arched her right eyebrow as she heard that she was going to be alone in the house with this beast. She found some comfort in the fact that Frank would also be there, but he was in no condition to do much more than be an invalid at the moment.

“Let us hope your business fares well father and is quick to wrap up.”

The rest of the dinner was a parry of Jack saying and doing things that aggravated her while she tried to keep herself from reaching across the table and punching him. It was infuriating to have such an attractive man be so crude and annoying.

When they had finally finished their final course, the Colonel invited Jack into the library for cigars and brandy while Lavenia, happily, moved out to the front porch to enjoy the cool evening air. Two weeks with that blackheart in the house while her father was in Atlanta. She prayed that his business was concluded quickly.

 

[Homerun2611]

Jack was having fun, laughing with the Colonel, he sensed that the man would have loved nothing more than to have been with his son and Jack the night before. Lavinia most definitely less so, “Sounds to me like you two were reckless, and that’s putting it quite mildly,” Of course the Colonel came to his rescue with his 'boys will be boys' logic, but it was clear the sexy younger sister was unimpressed.

Dinner was delicious, but he told some of his best jokes, and while the Colonel was having the time of his life, he raised scarcely a smile from Lavinia. After the Colonel told them that he would be traveling on business and needed Frank and Jack to oversee the plantation and take care of his daughter, Jack was more than happy to agree. "Of course Sir, both your home and your daughter will be well taken care of."

The rest of dinner went along enough, except Lavinia's lack of interest in the conversation was noticeable. Dinner broke and Jack and the Colonel went to the library for cigars and brandy. The Colonel wanted to hear about all of his son's and Jack's escapades he could, and Jack regaled him with stories of their gambling, drinking and womanizing and how it went back to their weekend furloughs at West Point. As the Colonel went up to bed, he found the gorgeous ebony servant who had helped Jack earlier. "Marigold, we have a new guest, and I think his bed could use some warming...why don't you show him the hospitality of Sugar Maple Spring?"

Jack had intended to go up, he had had more than a few drinks, and the day had been a long one trying to get Frank back here alive. He was just finishing his cigar as he walked out on the veranda and saw Lavinia starring up into the summer sky. He smiled at the chance to finally talk to her in private, "Penny for your thoughts? But I think I already know one. You don't like me much do you Lavinia? It appears you are even angry I helped save your brother last night? Or is it more that you would have liked to have been there yourself? Frank told me he was planning to teach you to shoot. However, since he will be incapacitated a bit, perhaps I might stand in? Or would you prefer to just sit around here, sip mint julips, and be a good and proper southern lady or would you like to have a little fun?"

 

[scarlettnuit]

How could she explain to him, to this stranger, just what had angered her so. Was it that her brother was being irresponsible? Was it because this stranger had taken up so much of Frank’s time? In truth, it was because of the fear he had inspired in her. The thought of losing Frank had sent a sudden shock through her system, the idea of losing the one person who understood her, sent a fear coursing through her that she couldn’t come to terms with, and so, she used her anger instead. Her anger was like a trusty side arm, warm, comfortable, and always ready to strike.

“Don’t give yourself that much credit,” she said as she stood from her chair, “to hate you would imply that I care enough about your existence to invest an emotion in it,” she told him coolly.

She walked around him and was about to enter the front door when he mentioned her intended shooting lesson. Her muscles tensed as thoughts tumbled over in her mind, trying to find the proper response. Why had Frank shared something like that with Jack? It was private, something that other people would shun her for if they knew, and for Jack of all people, to be the one with the knowledge. She let her hand drop from the door knob and then slowly turned to face him.

“Do you think you can just waltz in here and charm your way into my pantalettes with a few smooth words and some attention? I sir, am not a simpering little fool who falls over and faints at the attentions of a handsome man. I accept that you’ll be here for a while but that doesn’t mean I’m going to be the swell of your ego or your entertainment.”

With that, Lavenia went inside and to her room. When she was undressed and put into bed, she punched her pillow as the sheer nerve of Jack Rutherford sent a burst of anger coursing through her veins like wild fire.

“Damn him,” she said to herself, “and his stupid blue eyes.”


The next morning Lavenia awoke just before dawn, it was the only time she could do anything without being pestered by her father or any of the staff. She got out of bed and quietly padded over to her wardrobe. She looked around, her ears straining to hear the telling squeak of the floor boards that might signal someone was about, but she was rewarded with silence.

She opened the wardrobe and lifted one of the boards in it’s base to reveal a small cubby hole where she hid her most valued things. From this hidey hole, she pulled out a pair of men’s trousers and a man’s shirt. She quickly pulled a short chemise over her head and then pulled on her corset, lacing it up as best she could by herself. She then slipped on the shirt, trousers, and her riding boots. She then tied her hair back at the nape of her neck with a black ribbon and then headed off to the stables.

When she got there, she saw that her father had already taken the carriage and left for town. While she didn’t like the idea of being left in the house with just her invalid brother and Jack, she did like the amount of freedom it would afford her. She quickly saddled her black mare, aptly named midnight, and took off for a long ride.

She wasn’t sure how much time had passed as she galloped and cantered through the surrounding woods and fields, but when she stopped, the sun was high in the sky and she was hot and sticky from her exertions. She stopped Midnight at the edge of a small swimming hole that she and Frank had gone to often as children. It was well hidden little paradise that was fed by a small stream that made a little waterfall into the pool. Lavenia tied her horse up to a nice soft bit of grass and then stripped down behind a bush, carefully laying her clothes on its branches. She then quickly jaunted towards the pool and waded in.

She sighed as the cool clear water slipped over her skin, grateful for the shade of the tall oaks that surrounded the pool. She dipped her head back to smooth her hair from her face and wished that this day would never end.

 

[Homerun2611]

Jackson once again tried to dip his toe into the previously chilly waters, “Don’t give yourself that much credit,...to hate you would imply that I care enough about your existence to invest an emotion in it,” ...and got frost bite. "I assumed no such thing, your brother and I have become very good friends and he thinks the world of you, I was simply hoping we might be friends too..." and then he mentioned the shooting and clearly hit a nerve.

She had paid no attention, too his friendly overture, in fact he wasn't sure if she even heard her, “Do you think you can just waltz in here and charm your way into my pantalettes with a few smooth words and some attention? I sir, am not a simpering little fool who falls over and faints at the attentions of a handsome man. I accept that you’ll be here for a while but that doesn’t mean I’m going to be the swell of your ego or your entertainment.” And with that she spun on her heel and was gone...Jackson was smiling, with only one thought running through his always optimistic head, "she thinks I'm handsome!"

Jackson was enjoying his cigar, as well as the bourbon he had brought along as a present, and he decided to rejoin Lavinia's father. He didn't realize he had been coming out and heard the entire interaction. "She's a spirited colt, isn't she, I am not sure where she gets it, but her bark is worse than her bite." Jack laughed, "well a woman without spirit isn't very interesting is it, and I have a pretty good idea where she gets it." He winked at the older man, who Jackson was quickly understanding he liked very much, and they clicked glasses in quiet confirmation.

They then spent some time with the Colonel asking about any perceptions Jackson said for the increasing hostilities between the North and the South. "I wish folks from the North would come here, see how we run this place. I don't beat slaves, they actually stay in true housing with true meals, far better than they would have as share croppers, or factory workers." Jack could see the earnestness in his tone, and now getting to know the man, he had no doubts he thought himself humane and caring of his servants as he referred them. Jack had no desire to argue with the man, nor could he condone an institution that treated humans as property, and this plantation excluded, usually worse than animals.

"It is a complex issue sir, I do understand the economy of the south is highly dependent on this labor, but unfortunately few other owners think of their..uh, servants as you do." That was as far as Jack wanted to go, and they agreed that unfortunately things seemed to be heading toward a much stronger conflict in the not too distant future. Then the Colonel smiled, "I assume your travels have left you longing for some...relief?"

At first Jack didn't understand the good man's point, which was odd, because with Jack, sex was never far from the forefront of his thoughts. "Ah, well yes, I probably am..." and Jack couldn't help but remember the fine vision of Lavenia's backside as she sashayed out of the front porch, however he was equally sure that the Colonel was not offering up his daughter, at least not yet. "I have several of my women who I believe would give you anything you might desire. They are very enthusiastic, and I can speak with knowledge of their talents and skills." Ah, Jack thought, the Colonel had his own little brothel here. "Well sir, I appreciate the offer, but I tend to like having a bit of chemistry with a woman before bedding her. Perhaps as I spend more time here, I may have time to meet some of the women and see if a connection or two develops." The Colonel scowled, but nodded, 'well certainly if you want to go to that effort, but if not feel free to order one up." They said their goodnights and Jack was pretty certain the Colonel was off to order up some company for himself, and he had to smile at the older man's enthusiasm, it nothing else.

Jack walked by Lavenia's room and thought he heard a bit of a sound, but went along and found the full day brought sleep quickly, even with the summer heat. Having gone to bed much earlier than he usually did, he also found himself awake much earlier. He went in and saw Frank who was at least awake and had a bit of his personality back. "So have you met my sister? She is a firecracker isn't she? Making it tough on you?" They laughed and Jack recounted a few of her better comments. "I will bet you she is out for a morning ride, she likes to run down by the stream and pond, take your horse, she is much more herself in riding gear than a formal dress trust me."

They shook hands, and Jack promised to come back later. So wearing only a shirt and his trousers he went out to the barn and started a swift ride on his black stallion in the direction Frank had recommended, but when he saw her horse tied up, he realized he had encountered much more than he expected. He stopped and tied up his horse, and then as he walked down to find her, he saw the bush covered in her clothes. This was too good to pass up! He grabbed her corset and held it in his hand as he walked to the edge of the swimming hole.

Her back was to him, as she ran the water over her gorgeous, toned back and shoulders. He made a whistle as he would in a bar to an attractive woman, and delighted as she turned her head, eyes shockingly open, looking over her shoulder. "Whooeee, look what I found here. I saw this bush full of clothes, and was worried about what poor woman might have have lost these. But then looking at this corset, I must say I was curious at what kind of a figure might fill out such a garment, now imagine my surprise..**** of the morning to you Miss Lavenia!"

 

[scarlettnuit]

She nearly jumped out of her skin when she heard Jack’s whistle. She looked over her shoulder to see the man in question and immediately blushed pink from head to toe. She looked around for something to cover herself with, all to no avail. She thanked her lucky stars for the fact that the water hid most of her body and she let herself duck low enough so that all but her neck and head were submerged.

“I can’t believe you’re standing there waving my corset about,” she snapped back. Though her voice was as strong as usual, there was a slight waiver in it that betrayed her nervousness at the situation. “If you were any kind of gentleman, you would turn your back and allow me to get dressed…”

She hated that her swim was being ruined but there was little to do but get dressed and pray that no one ever heard about this little chance encounter. Tongues were set to wag as it was, especially where she was concerned; her reputation could so without this particular blemish.

“I take it Frank told you about this place,” she said as she kept her eyes fixed on the water and not the man in front of her. She swam to a boulder that blocked her body from his view and then folded her arms on top of it, resting her head on her arms.

“Have you come to ogle me or do you actually have some sort of purpose?” She asked and then looked at him, panicked, “My God, Frank is ok isn’t he?”

 

[Homerun2611]

She had to see the joyous sparkle in his eye and the mirthful smirk across his lips. This was just too damn good, a gift from the gods to find this little spit fire trapped, vulnerable and at his mercy. Oh, she put up a good front, always the aggressor, even when she didn't have a leg to stand on. Jack admired the hutzpah, no matter how little she had to stand behind it.

“I can’t believe you’re standing there waving my corset about,” He raised a brow, "And why would that be...it is a most lovely corset, and only gives me further admiration for the woman with the figure who can so admirably fill out such a fine garment." Thank goodness her eyes couldn't fire daggers or he would have been a bloody heap her naked body would have come out and most probably kicked!

“If you were any kind of gentleman, you would turn your back and allow me to get dressed…” And t that he laughed, bent over and nearly dropped the corset in the dirt. "A gentleman you say! I believe your sharp little tongue has made it quite evident that you consider me no gentlemen, and who am I to disappoint your rush to judgment. To indignify your conclusions with acts to the contrary." He was loving this, and as she swam over to the rock she exposed a bit more than intended, and he enjoyed every damned inch. She was a fine specimen there was no doubt, nor was his desire to enjoy her.

He could see her mind spinning trying to figure out some cunning strategy to remove her from this predicament but he knew none would be forthcoming. “I take it Frank told you about this place...Have you come to ogle me or do you actually have some sort of purpose?...My God, Frank is ok isn’t he?”

Oh she was a peach, sexy and firey and there wasn't a thing about her, he didn't like or covet, God help him. "Well...indeed he did, but I don't think either of us thought it would lead to this delightful little predicament....and yes he is fine, in fact when we tell him about this, I bet the good laugh alone will help him heal at least two days quick...now, as for ogling, that was not my intention, but now that you bring it up, I can't rightly imagine a better way to enjoy my morning...unless it was to remove my clothes and enjoy a nice cool swim as well?"

He let the words linger there, to both frighten and titillate. Jack was certain she was a woman of passion and daring, even if she didn't fully admit it herself. She not only would enjoy, but she would only find herself truly happy with a man like him, one that challenged her and welcomed her challenging him. A man who did't want a decoration on his arm, but a woman, a partner, who helped paint all the colors more brightly and vividly.

"Don't you worry...I won't join you until I am invited, but I hope that won't be too long. And as good as ogling sounds, and it does sound good!...you are going to get cold soon, and then you might just lose to the mirthful mood I find myself in the good fortune of finding you this morning."

He looked at her and flashed his eyes, "So here is how this is going to work. In return for a kiss...and I mean a real kiss...not one of those little peck good nights that the boys around here settle for, but a kiss a man feel's in his bones, I will turn my back and be an otherwise gentleman. ...and next Saturday night at the dance your father is planning to have here for your brother and I, I will be the first man you dance with, and the last. Miss Lavenia...even if you don't know it, you want me to be that man. There are only two men in this entire area who can really make a woman feel alive, one is your brother, who besides being laid up, well...he is your brother. The other is me. You need and will enjoy being swung around the room by a man who makes your heart pound and your body react. It is not bragging when it is fact. I know you don't think you like me much right now...but I like you. I don't play games, if I want a woman, desire a woman she knows it...so know it....it is my job to make you want me just as much!"

He slowly turned his back, "Now why don't you come out of there, and trust me not to turn. Be quick about it...I am greatly looking forward to it...and I am trusting on your love for your brother and his honor you will not try to renege on our deal!"

 

[scarlettnuit]

If looks could kill, Jack would have been nothing but a blood stump. As it was, however, Lavenia knew that no argument she could formulate would change his mind and see sense. She did her best not to groan loudly and throw a rock at him, but it was a real struggle.

“Fine,” She said through gritted teeth with the most artificial of smiles.

Once Jack had turned his back, she made her way out of the lake, quickly tiptoeing to the bush where her clothes laid. She threw her shirt on, given that Jack was still holding her corset, her trousers, stockings and boots. When she was finally dressed, she walked over to Jack and snatched her corset from his hands, tucking it under her crossed arms.

After a heavy sigh, she closed her eyes, tilted her head up, and pursed her lips together, wanting to get the charade over and done with.

 

[Homerun2611]

Jack turned as she grabbed the corset from his loose grasp. "You mean I don't get to put it back on you? I was growing quite fond of it!" He laughed and then smirked as he saw her tilt her head and close her eyes, pursing her lips. He smirked, "What in dear God's name is that?"

He laughed for a second and then did a mock imitation, smacking his heels together, and wiggling slightly as he craned his neck up, closed his eyes, pursed his lips and then blew a meek kiss. "Perhaps you mistake me for Aunt Millie, or Aunt Petunia...you know, those 80 year old relics whose lips have made the sad transition from soft and inviting to prunish and off putting. You still have to kiss them, but no one would ever look forward to it."

He went on, "Hmm, now I could see where the mustache and goatee might have certain similarities to old bitty Millie, but I promise you I am not her....My dear, I asked you for a real kiss...and I intend to make it enjoyable for both of us...now, I may have assumed wrong, but you have been kissed by a man who knew how to do it, right? A kiss you felt in your nether regions every bit if not more than you enjoyed it on your lips...but perhaps not...well you will have now...."

With that he swept his arm behind her back and pulled her in tight, her breasts pressed against his muscular chest, his lips pressed against his passionately, pressing, a slight moan...his tongue suddenly tickling her lower lip!

 

[scarlettnuit]

Lavenia didn’t appreciate Jack’s mocking and was ready to give up on the whole thing when he suddenly took hold of her and she found herself pressed against his body. Her heart, against her will, began to race and feelings she didn’t particularly want to have started to bubble up. Before she could think on any of it, his lips came crashing down on hers.

Her eyes opened wide in surprise and stayed open for a few moments before closing. His lips felt warm and firm and sent fire crashing through her veins. She was doing her best to gather her thoughts and push him away when she felt his tongue. She jumped at first, she had never even heard of such a thing, but she succumbed to the sensual feeling of his warm, sweet tasting mouth on hers. Just as her arms started to move around him to keep him close, she pushed him away.

In a fluster she walked over to her horse, doing her best to hide her flushed cheeks and the fact that she was trying to catch her breath. She had never felt anything so delicious in all her life, and it pained her that such a feeling was caused by Jack of all people.

“I need to be getting back…” She told him and then stepped up on a tree stump and then mounted her horse, “I’m sure you know the way…”

She kicked her steed into a gallop, putting as much space between herself and Jack as possible. Her body was on fire and she wanted to feel his hands all over it, a thought that made her curse herself. What was wrong with her? She was no harlot yet here she was wondering what it would feel like to have his hands run through her hair, his touch on her neck…

She shook her head and rode harder until she reached the house. She gave her horse to the stable boy and then bolted up to her room and called for a bath. While she waited for the tub to be brought up and filled, she undressed and then looked at herself in the mirror. Dusty pink nipples stood at attention on the peaks of her full creamy breasts. She moved her hands down her sides and then over her mound only to find that moisture had collected there. While she was tempted to touch herself, she knew it wasn’t lady like and pulled her hands away just as the tub and hot water was brought in. She soon stepped into the tub and let the hot water wash away her thoughts, as best I could.

She emerged a few hours later, dressed in a simple muslin summer dress, the top half of her hair pulled back with a ribbon, the rest of her mane cascaded down her back in gentle curls. She walked down the hall to her brother’s room to check on him.

“Well there she is,” Frank smiled as she walked in the door, putting down the newspaper he was reading.

“Did you tell Jack where to find me this morning?” she asked in a huff as she moved a chair near the bed to speak to him.

“I just told him that there was a nice swimming hole,” he smiled as he picked up his pipe and lit it, “Why, did he find you?”

“You know very well that he did,” she began, her face turning beet red, “And I don’t appreciate being accosted by some strange man.”

Frank’s eyebrows knitted together as he looked at his sister, “Accosted? What do you mean?”

Lavenia pursed her lips and was silent for a moment before she responded. “Oh it doesn’t matter. I can’t believe that we will be saddled with that rogue for four weeks,” she sighed and then looked to Frank, “But at least you’ll be here,” She smiled and took his hand in hers.

“Well my darling sister, I will be for a time…but father has asked me to join him in Atlanta to go over some business with him there. I’ll be heading out in the morning for about a week, so I’m afraid you’ll both have to soldier on without me for a bit.”

“But…but…how can you leave me alone with a strange man! It’s just not fitting!”

“Marigold and all the other house servants will be here, you won’t be alone. Besides, I’m sure Jack will be out hunting most of the time anyway. Besides, Jack has his honorable side, I’m sure you’ll be fine.”

“I’m sure he does,” She retorted sarcastically. “I’ve got to go see about the dinner menu, I’ll have some food brought up to you and see that your bags are packed,” She said softly as she stood. She kissed Frank on the forehead before she left his room and went down into the kitchen.

She was going to be stranded alone with that bastard Jack Rutherford and while she was angry at being left at such an imposition, part of her felt a little thrill.

 

[Homerun2611]

Jack was an experienced kisser, and a first kiss told him a lot. What he learned about Lavenia was one, she had never been kissed, which was both disappointing, and thrilling. Disappointing as this might take a bit of time, and he had to muddle through all the morality and silly self image rules women dealt with before admitting, Damn I enjoy a good kiss and I want more of them. Thrilling in that almost immediately she showed s much potential, and he wouldn’t have to waste time helping her unlearn all the bad habits they me spent with a poor kisser could instill in an otherwise competent woman.

He smiled, and she did show promise, how she was startled by and then welcomed his wanting tongue, how for a moment, she let herself go, experience and enjoy before the morality police made their disruptive entrance. She had broken, and moved away quickly, but not quickly enough. A woman may say and do certain things, but their pussies and nipples were the ultimate purveyors of truth. And while he would have enjoyed the secondary confirmation that only a woman’s wet loins can give, her razor sharp nipples had told him what he needed to know. Her mind might be saying no, but her body was saying yes. A long track record of seducing married women, pillars of the church, and virgin daughters had taught Jack, win the body and the mind ultimately succumbs. However, this was more than that. Yhis was more than enjoying the local minister’s wife or daughter, this woman had fire and fight and spunk, this woman was wife material, for an otherwise confirmed bachelor.

Jack still had a smile on his face as he walked into Frank’s room. “You accosted my sister?” Jack laughed. “I did no such thing. I simply blackmailed and then kissed her, really kissed her, and I am sorry to say she has apparently never been truly kissed before.” Jack raised an accusatory brow at Frank who laughed, “Jesus man, she is my sister!” “And?” Jack was now roaring in laughter, “...please tell me how a minor detail like that has ever stopped you from giving a beautiful woman what we both know all beautiful women need. Well, don’t worry, your best friend has again had your back and covered for you!”

Now it was Frank laughing, “Well, I do like you Jack, but best friend?” He winked. They were as close as brothers from m another mother could be. Kindred spirits. “Please remember, she is my sister and I do love her...” Frank nodded and grinned, “ I know, but she is ripe and ready and bursting to enjoy life...but I will make a deal....you are welcome to my sister, wait I don’t have one...well my mother then, or cousin or Ant, all attractive and talented ladies.” Oh how Jack could make Frank laugh, his irreverence was incredible, yet he trusted him with his life. Suddenly he got quiet, “Just please, she is special, be good to her.” Jack came over and patted his friend on the shoulder, “Indeed she is, and I will, and you know, I think I may just be in love with her...but my God, she is a firecracker!”

“Let me go get us some whiskey, we can toast to the seduction of your fiery sister!” And with that Jack was off, to get them the only medicine he believed in...

 

[scarlettnuit]

Lavenia arranged a tray of food to be taken to her brother and then moved into the drawing room. She sat down at the desk and began to pen a letter to her father; there were a few things that were needed that he could only procure in town. She had just finished writing the body of the letter when she saw Jack pop into the room looking for something.

“Can I help you find something?” she asked as she signed her letter and sprinkled some pounce on it to dry the ink. She blew off the dust and then folded the paper neatly and slipped it into an envelope.

“Let me guess, the whisky,” she said, doing her best to hide the curve of her smile. She sealed the envelop and then rose and walked to Jack, “Follow me.”

She led him out of the drawing room and down the hall to her father’s study. She opened the beautifully carved doors and smiled as the perfume of pipe tobacco and leather wafted to her nose. She then moved towards the cabinet on the left side of the room where a cut crystal decanter and several glasses lay. She opened the cabinet, withdrew a small silver tray, and then closed the door once more. She then placed the decanter and two glasses on the tray and walked back to Jack.

“Here you are. Now try not to let him drink too terribly much. I would hate to have him jostle all the way into Atlanta with a sour stomach.”

She was doing her best to be polite to him, given his abominable behavior at the lake. If she were being truthful with herself, she had enjoyed it. She enjoyed laughing and playing, but she was getting a little too old for such things, and given her Pa’s absence, she didn’t want to do anything that would shame him, even though Blackjack Rutherford made it so appealing. She blushed at the thought and gave him the tray quickly.

“I’d best be off to the kitchen to discuss supper with cook and arrange for Frank’s things to be packed. I’m afraid you will be left with only my company for a few days as Pa has asked Frank to meet him in town on important business.” She hesitated a few moment’s and then left to take care of the tasks at hand.

When dressing for dinner, she wore the most modest dress she had, a pale pink silk gown trimmed in white lace. The neckline was highest she had for evening wear and she hoped that it would discourage Jack from any further interest in her, and perhaps herself from reciprocating that interest.

“Now, it’s just a silly man, you’ve been around plenty of flirts and were able to handle them with decorum. Jack is just another silly man,” she scolded her reflection as she checked herself over once more in the mirror. She checked her hair and put on her pearl ear bobs and then headed down for supper.

She moved down the stairs and towards the drawing room where she found Jack waiting.

“Please forgive me, I hope you haven’t been waiting too very long. If you’ll follow me into the dining room, supper is ready to be served,” she told him, doing her best to be both polite and cold towards him, anything to discourage his interest. Once they were seated in the dining room, wine was poured, and the first course served.

“I trust you left Frank well enough to travel in the morning?”

 

[Homerun2611]

“Can I help you find something?” Jack was almost always playful, and this was no exception. He looked down, generally in the vicinity of his cock. He then scanned her up an down, slowly, enjoyably. "No, I believe everything I need is right here, if there was just a bit more alignment on objectives and desires." He cocked his brow. "Oh...you mean alcohol? Yes, bourbon or whiskey, I am nothing if not flexible." He chuckled.

“Here you are. Now try not to let him drink too terribly much. I would hate to have him jostle all the way into Atlanta with a sour stomach.” Jack had to laugh at Lavenia's concern. "My dear, do you know your brother at all? His stomach is more used to whiskey than he would be mother's milk or your sweet tea. I have ridden more miles with your brother so full of whiskey it would have drowned most men, and he never missed a beat and ran the poor animal at full gallup. Both your brother and I love to ride hard, and put our horses away wet, I had hoped you were of similar ilk and appetite."

He went up with Frank and took the tray, and they enjoyed drink after drink. Frank was starting to feel better, and he and his father were hoping to find some entertainment in one of their favorite houses of ill repute. "Tell Rose hello for me, it is too bad she is a whore, or she might have made me a good wife, she is truly one of the only women who shared all of the same passions I do." They laughed at remembering some of their adventures, and by the time Jack headed down to dinner, Frank could not have been in better spirits.

Jack was downstairs a few minutes before Lavenia, and found himself looking forward to reengaging with the feisty young woman. But when she walked in, while she was lovely, almost pure in appearance, that was not the look Jack had hoped for. “Please forgive me, I hope you haven’t been waiting too very long. If you’ll follow me into the dining room, supper is ready to be served,” Jack stood up, took he hand and bowed kissing the back of her delicate hand. "It is no bother, in fact, if you would like to change into something a bit more festive, I was hoping we might celebrate the upcoming travels of your brother and send him off with a mini celebration. I can only imagine how stunning you look in scarlett red, or emerald green, perhaps some black lace highlighting your feminine assets? Lavenia, please take this as a compliment, but you have a figure that deserves to be celebrated and...well...admired."

Jack's eyes were sparkling, thinking he had paid her a great compliment, her eyes suggested he might be mistaken....“I trust you left Frank well enough to travel in the morning?” Jack smiled, "Oh I promise, your brother was feeling no pain...I told him we might help him down after dinner...I think he would like to share a drink with us...he even suggested some music and that he would love to see us dance a bit...you do enjoy a bit of bourbon or whiskey don't you?"

 

[scarlettnuit]

When Jack suggested she change into something more festive, she shot him back a look that would out caliber any bullet.

“Jack Rutherford, if you don’t tone down your advances I’ll have you sent from this house,” she told him sharply and then turned away to hide her smile and walk into the dining room.

They were seated at the table and the first course was served. She nodded as he spoke about her brother. She was about to suggest having the servants help him down for the evening when he popped his head into the dining room.

“Hey there sis, Jack,” he grinned wolfishly, it was clear that he had quite enjoyed the good whisky and stumbled slightly as he moved into a chair.

“I was still hungry…” he explained as he picked up a biscuit from the basket in the center of the table. He then eyed Jack and then his sister. “Am I going to be able to trust you while I’m gone Jack?” He made it sound jovial, almost as a tease, but there was a brotherly concern in it’s undertone.

“I can take care of myself Frank,” she said sternly as claret was poured into her wine glass. She was so tired of being babied. She was a woman, not an infant.

 

[Homerun2611]

Frank’s entrance could not have been better timed, a cynic might even think ir orchestrated (wink)! It wasn’t as if this wasn’t a double edged sword for Frank, he loved his sister dearly, and if any. Man had more interest in his sister’s glorious flower than Jack, it was his long time running mate, and her brother Frank. Now Frank was a good Christian man, and he never would have allowed. Himself to indulge in the actual execution of this taboo fantasy, but look at Lavenia, she was the ripest and prettiest little peach in the state, and would tempt the holiest of convictions.

He also knew his sister needed more, not same man who treated her like a de oration to be pulled out and polished on special occasions, nope his Lavenia need a man who would respect her like a man, encourage her sexual vibrance, and might even be open, liberal of mind, to share with a good friend, a brother from another mother. Yes, Frank has decided his Jack was the perfect man for his Lavenia, now they just needed encouragement.

He and Jack would play out a routine they had used to stare far less worthwhile hens than his gorgeous young sister, and so it began, “Am I going to be able to trust you while I’m gone Jack?” Before Jack could even reposing, Lavenia took issue, and both Frank and Jack could barely contain their laughter, “I can take care of myself Frank,” Of that Jack had little doubt, and it was a key aspect of why she was so appealing! Now it was the men so turn to go through their routine:

Jack: Well you know me, but can trust her. I have been relentless to no avail, just now she chided me that I might be thrown out, and after I defended her so earlier

Frank: Defended her, why would my beautiful sister need defending?

Jack: Well I had gone into town, to have a drink and experience some of the local flavor, when two older gentlemen approached me and asked whatI was doing there? Of course I explained I was your friend, and then they had a sad look, described how sad it was about Lavenia, even used the “F” word, and worse, the “O” word?

Frank: Those scoundrels, how dare they refer to my sister as Frigid, and worse, concerned she might end an Old Maid!

Jack: I know, I know, I told them I was sure they were quite wrong, just look at her fair face, her full bosom, and her firm but rounded hips, what man wouldn’t want to enjoy such beauty. The agreed she was a rare beauty, but then challenged me, “tell me were wrong” the said, surely a man handsome and worldly as yourself has tried to strike her fancy, and can we assume, you like all others has felt the chill of her response? Well, I do declare, they had a point, and of course you as her brother could not have considered anything as forward as passion, it being your sister and all (Jack stopped and winked at Frank) as he was quite sure he had more than considered it, particularly on the trail as he had heard Frank moan Lavenia’s name during those necessary moments of self pleasure. Jack would never judge a man’s desires, and upon meeting and seeing Lavenia he had well understood, the spark that had ignited his flame.

Frank: Is this true Lavenia, have you been chilly and dismissive of good man Jack here? He is a dashing gentleman and a truer friend zi do not believe exists.

Jack: oh Frank, don’t go on so. Not every woman is interested in the more earthly desires, some just do not have that flame. Even now, look at her conservative dress, I tried to nicely suggest how a crimson or emerald, even scarlett silk gown, perhaps with black lace and showing her milky bosom might make men think differently, believe the fire of a woman lie inside, and not a shy girl or worse, but I was resoundly refused. I have tried Frank, and you can count on me to try to defend Lavenia’s reputation, but there is only so much one man can do?

They poured another drink and sat themselves down, quite satisfied with their performance. Then Frank spoke up, perhaps there is time. While we are away, would you consider escorting my sister into town, you would dress up a bit, right Lavenia, if you could be seen dancing, sharing fine food and drink with a real man, perhaps we might change those awful opinions?

Both men looked at Lavenia, trying to gauge her reaction, both men somewhat imagining just how she might look in such an outfit!

 

[scarlettnuit]

Lavenia listened to the men go on, eating politely until they finally finished. When they were done she gently placed her silverware on her plate and took a sip of her claret. She almost sighed as she felt almost instantly relaxed, more so than she should have been. She eyed the glass for a moment before setting it down. Her cheeks flushed from both the wine and the more carnal thoughts that flashed in her mind from Jack and Frank going on about how “un-frigid” she should be.

“I can tell that you two have been thoroughly enjoying the whisky,” she shot back, bringing the glass of wine to her lips and swallowed another deliciously sensual sip. This time she felt almost silly, a strange desire to giggle slightly overcame her, but she managed to stop it at a smile.

Frank grinned a little as he watched his sister visibly relax. Normally he wouldn’t have done such a thing, lacing the claret with the tiniest bit of opium from the prescription the doctor had given him, but his sister was a hard woman, and it seemed that the situation with Jack needed a little…lubrication.

He watched she visibly relaxed, the combination of wine and the drug putting a delightful rose tint on her cheeks. Her smile from the warmth that now swirled inside of her made his cock start to harden. It had been too long since he had had a woman, and there was no denying that his sister was an attractive woman. Before he could think on it too long, he called for one of the servants to help him back upstairs.

“Well, you two enjoy the evening,” he grinned, winking at Jack before he was helped back up to his bedroom.

Lavenia leaned back comfortably in the chair as the next course was brought out, her eyes moving from her brother’s retreating figure to Jack. She sighed softly, he really was very handsome, and charming, and completely infuriating. She moved her head slightly, rolling her neck to help the muscles continue to relax.

When the main course was set before them, she ate more heartily than she might have if she were not so relaxed and giddy feeling. She suddenly didn’t care what anyone thought, every morsel she put in her mouth was delicious and she was going to enjoy it.

“So, if I am understanding you both, I should become a trollop and destroy my reputation?” she grinned, the thought of it comical. However, she paused for a moment, thinking of how delicious such a revealing and sensual outfit would feel. Her eyes moved to Jack again as her imagination painted his reaction to such a frock, a hint of wickedness glinting in her eye before she grinned and turned her attention back to her dinner.
“I’m not sure you would be able to survive such a sight Jack, being of such weak constitution,” she half teased, half challenged.

 

[Homerun2611]

“Well, you two enjoy the evening,” he grinned, winking at Jack before he was helped back up to his bedroom. Jack had no idea of Frank's assist in his endeavor to woo the spirited, and oh so appealing, Lavenia. If he had, although he would have appreciated his good friend's intent, he would not have liked it. Jack liked to think of himself as a rake most rare and capable. Never was a woman more appealing than after a spirited chase, having her succumb to his charms, if not melt her panties right off in her pool of desire.

Nope, he wanted to earn Lavenia, so as Frank left, and Lavenia relaxed, step one in his desired swoon, he naturally assumed it was all of his doing. His rapier like wit, his dashing good looks, his dazzling smile and wickedly wanting eyes, and his scandalous charm. Yes, that was Jack's recipe for success, and he had almost an arrogant confidence that Lavenia, would most assuredly eventually find him irresistible as well. Nearly as much as he found her.

They had moved on to their entree, and Lavenia showed her appetite for the perfectly prepared rib roast was at least as healthy as her appetite for life. Jack liked that, hunger was good in all respects, as was a certain insatiability to her appetite. "For one who feigns such innocence you devour your meal like more of a wolf than a lamb. Perhaps those men in town underestimate you, or perhaps you just need the right feast in which to indulge?"

She paid his double entendre laced statement no heed, barely slowing her enjoyment of her dinner, but briefly pausing to let him know she had heard every word. “So, if I am understanding you both, I should become a trollop and destroy my reputation?” Jack laughed at this, "Well it is all a matter of what reputation you want to destroy, a woman not be a trollup to be a sexual force worthy of desire and awe, such a woman would be the envy of many, the object of desire of others, yet could pick and choose when and if she wanted to endeavor. I see that woman as powerful, I know should I ever want to marry, as far fetched as that concept may be, I would only want a woman who did not feel obliged to hide being a woman in order to satisfy some misguided puritan ideal...a woman should not be considered poorly for having the appetites of a man...." He smiled as she put another forkful in her beautiful mouth, "....she should be rejoiced!"

He was not sure what she was thinking or if she had any reaction at all, and despite his thinly veiled goal of seduction, he was actually espousing his true beliefs. He wanted a woman with the heart and guts of a man, but the beauty, grace and practicality of a woman, Lavenia might be such a rare creature, a female unicorn. Finally she swallowed and once again spoke, “I’m not sure you would be able to survive such a sight Jack, being of such weak constitution,”

Now it was his turn to laugh. "Moi, weak...the lady doth protest too much....for it is not me who chooses to dress like she is ready for a church ice cream social...I dared you to dress in your most daring silks...and let me let you feel the thrill of being properly twirled on the dance floor, as fire rings from the piano players keys. If you fear for your safety, we could do a test, I would let you tie me up, and then show me how you would look if you were to break the shackles of the prim and proper and dress like a woman with your assets, a body designed by the good lord himself for pleasure...would actually let it do just that....Lavenia, I am not one of the little boys who carry your parasol, or ask to take you home from Sunday services and share a spot of lemonade...I am a man, who believes a woman is entitled to drink, enjoy, be bad or good, and be enjoyed in all her glory...I would be disappointed Lavenia, if you were not a woman who craves such adventure!"

 

[scarlettnuit]

Given the scant amount of the drug put into the wine, Lavenia only felt mildly relaxed and a little giddy. She was still in control of herself, though for reasons she did not understand, she felt ready to take on the world.

As Jack tried to smooth talk his way through the main course, she found herself blushing. She had never had a gentleman be so forward or direct with her. She felt like the prize sponge being presented to a starving man. When she finished with the entre she put her flatware down and looked across the table at him. She did have a dress she wasn’t allowed to wear. She had commissioned it without her father’s knowledge and the minute he saw it come through the door he ordered it burned. She, of course, had hidden it away in the back of her armoire. She wasn’t going to let that delicious confection go to waste, then again, she wasn’t going to go put it on with her brother in the house.

She blushed a little hotter as her mind thought about the following evening. The house would be practically empty. Given that she was the only one in the house other than Jack, she had given most of the servants the time off, save for two, one to cook and one to serve.

Chocolate ice was brought out for dessert and she let out a small moan of delight as the spoonful melted on her tongue. Such a treat was a welcome respite from the humid heat of the south.

“All men are just little boys playing soldiers,” She said rather cattily, “But who knows, maybe tomorrow night you’ll prove me wrong,” she smiled, glancing at him through her lush eyelashes.

Once dessert was completed, her chair was pulled back and she stood. “My brother is undoubtedly passed out by now, but if you like, I can certainly show you to the study for a cigar and brandy,” she offered as she walked towards him, gesturing towards a set of double doors that led to the main hallway.

“I would join you but I’m not much for smoking,” she teased.

 

[Homerun2611]

Jack noticed the natural rouge in her cheeks as they ate dinner. With every bite he took, every bite she took, he only wanted her more. It might have been merely the chase, but he thought not. Oh, he loved a good chase and a sheet, clawing bedding as much as any other cad, but she was more than the chase, it was the reward at the end.

After all, this was Franks' sister, and he and Frank were far too close for him to treat her as he had so many other beautiful flowers who all too quickly wilted. No, this chase was not for a quick kill, this was for the opportunity to have a woman of substance, a woman worthy of his extended attentions. The chase had only given him greater appreciation for the prize, a prize to be savored and treasured once obtained.

Dessert followed and even Jack, for a moment forgot the girl. "Chocolate Ice, oh my, I have heard about this but never tried it." In years to come this type of thing, ice cream, refrigeration would be commonplace, but not now, this was a luxury and Jack was all in. Spoonful after spoonful were shaved and succulently enjoyed. Each mouthful was spectacular. It was interesting to contrast the chilled sweetness of the chocolate block, with the creamy delight of Lavenia's skin, and Jack lost himself in the fantasy of eating the dessert directly off of her sizzling body.

“All men are just little boys playing soldiers,” She said rather cattily, “But who knows, maybe tomorrow night you’ll prove me wrong,” The heat of the look alone, nearly melted the dessert in front of him to a puddle of water, she was a flirt and high spirited. "Tomorrow? Does the lady have a plan of which I am unaware. As luck will have it, my calendar is indeed, clear, but you can trust you will find all the man you could ever want." Jack playfully frisked himself, even briefly clutching his manhood, which was below the table and quite out of sight, but he was certain Lavenia got the gist. "Yep, all red blooded american male here, no boys need apply for what most assuredly is a man's obligation and pleasure." He winked at her, but gave a look that suggested he would gladly remove all of her garments right there with one hard pull.

Dinner complete, she offered the typical Southern Gentleman indulgence, “My brother is undoubtedly passed out by now, but if you like, I can certainly show you to the study for a cigar and brandy,” And as she led him, he slipped his arm around her, and let his strong hand grasp her waist. However then she offered the opening he hoped for, “I would join you but I’m not much for smoking,” she teased. Jack laughed but did not let go, and instead swung her toward him, "How ironic that a woman who so easily sparks the fire in a man with a simple smile or toss of her hair, does not care for that fire manifested in smoke.....However, for me, it is an easy choice, if given the choice between a fine cigar or a finer yet young woman, a woman who smoulders with her very presence, then, if truly given the choice, I take the lady....Would you join me for a brandy Lavenia, I won't even tell if you choose to have a second...remember I enjoy a woman who is unafraid to pursue life's pleasures with a passion equal or surpassing any man's!"

 

[scarlettnuit]

She smirked at him; why did he have to be so damned charming? She could get over good looking, or charming, or sexy, but all three Jack very difficult to ignore. She was going to turn and leave him to his thoughts and a brandy, but his arm deftly snaked around her waist and he pulled her close. Damn him all to hell! She wanted to give into the heat he sent through her body, consequences be damned, and she was finding it more and more difficult to resist.

She looked up at the brilliant smile and then into the warm pools of his eyes and sighed softly, her arms relaxing and resting on his own.

“I imagine you already know that if I wanted a drink, or two for that matter, I’d simply have them,” she grinned up at him through her lashes, “but how ever will I pour them if I’m tangled up in your arms?” she asked and then gently removed herself from his grip. She needed a minute to think and the brandy was a more than acceptable excuse.

She poured them each a glass. She placed one glass in his hand and then moved to the settee and sat down with her own. She took a sip and relaxed against the back of the settee and watched what was left of the fire flicker in the fireplace. Normally it was too hot in the summer for a fire, but on evenings like tonight, a cold gust blew in from the river.

She turned to sit sideways, resting her head on the back of the settee for a moment. “You make being a good daughter very difficult Jack,” she smiled and then lifted her head and took another sip of her brandy.

 

[Homerun2611]

She had a parry, for every verbal thrust he made. However, he was determined and had just begun to thrust. She was sexy, smart, witty and her every word and movement only served to make him more interested. Interested in ways that he couldn't remember feeling. "Me thinks, the lady doth protest too much," he thought but kept the thought inside, barely containing the chuckle.

She gave him a healthy pour of the fine brandy, enough he would sleep well tonight. He watched her sit down. She moved with grace and athleticism, a feline, he wanted to make purr. She moved with an elegance and sexiness which was a skill that one must be born with, he imagined her mother was likely quite a woman. She looked relaxed, he liked her like this, except she was far, too far, away. He quite enjoyed his cat and mouse game, that is, as long as he was the cat. “You make being a good daughter very difficult Jack,”

He raised his glass in mock salute, "Thank you...I think. It is the man's role to tempt isn't it...I take great joy and pride in my role." Their eyes met and flashed at each other, they were both beautiful creatures doing a prolonged mating dance. Their eyes locked and neither dropped their gaze, the attraction creating a closed circuit of electricity. "I have gotten to know your father pretty well though, and he is a fine southern gentleman and the consummate host. I have little doubt that he would do almost anything to show his guest a good time....and you Lavenia, his beautiful young daughter, I venture is the best time I might possibly find here? Please do not tell me that I am wrong, or I might never trust my instincts again."

He got up as he talked and closed the gap between them, sitting himself down on the settee and sliding up next to her. Again he raised his glass, "Toast with me Lavenia...not to being good...or bad...just to enjoying life to the fullest in these turbulent times." The clicked, drank and then in on deft, and quick move he slid his arm around her, and pulled her into a single arm embrace. He pressed his lips to hers, and let his tickle her lower lip, requesting entrance. There was only a single kiss, but it was long, passionate and promised so much more for the future.

He released her and got up, "I look forward to our night tomorrow, alone, and this dress, you do not believe I can handle." He turned and still almost full brandy in hand walked out on the veranda and down into the cool night air. He would have that cigar after all, for tomorrow night he only planned to enjoy her....

 

[scarlettnuit]

She gasped and her spine straightened as Jack pulled her into his embrace. Before she could think, his lips were on hers. The tip of his tongue teased the pillow that was her bottom lip. She moved her mouth to ask what he was doing only to inadvertently grant him access. Her body stiffened considerably more as electrical charges darted through her body, what little breath she had was taken away as she savored the delicious flavor combination of fine brandy and Jack’s warm mouth. His kiss made her body come alive.

She was about to pull him closer, her eyebrows knitting together as she fumbled at her own attempt to return the searing kiss. Just as quickly as he kissed her, he stood left the room, retreating to the cool breeze that now caressed the veranda. Her body mourned his departure, her mind thanked him for walking away and leaving her with a moment to think. She sat for a few moments, stunned, and then gulped down the rest of her brandy, leaving the empty crystal glass on the end table as she slowly rose.

She walked towards the front door, peeking, with as much stealth as possible, through one of the small windows that were on either side of their large oak door. She watched him prepare his cigar and light it, every movement he made a screaming confirmation of his masculinity.

She swallowed hard, turned away from the window, and then retreated to the comfort of her bedroom. There she found one of the servants waiting to help her undress. After her dress, cage, crinoline and corset were removed, she dismissed the young woman and looked herself over in the mirror. Her hands brushed over her breasts, her nipples hard and pressing through the fine white cotton. Her breasts felt heavy and she closed her eyes and thought of Jack’s hands squeezing them. She sighed softly and opened her eyes again and noticed a small wet mark on the front of her bloomers, something she wasn’t quite sure about. All she knew was that her body was on fire and dying to be touched. Alas, she was alone.

She took off the remainder of her clothing, put on a long cotton night gown, and then crawled into her bed. She quickly blew out her oil lamp and then looked towards her windows. As the soft fabric danced in the breeze, she smiled as she smelled the hint of cigar smoke. Jack was probably below her window, or at least, not far from it. She rolled on her back, her left arm resting over her head on her pillow, the other resting across her stomach. She sighed in frustration, the more she thought of Jack, the itchier her skin felt, the more painful the ache between her legs. Finally reached down and touched her core, worried something was amiss…only to feel an electric bolt of pleasure shoot through her body. She lay still for several moments before she reached down and tried touching herself again, and again, another gasp escaped her lips.

Lavenia chewed on her bottom lip as she considered this new sensation. She was sure that it was a sin, anything that felt like that couldn’t be very godly. After several minutes of deliberation, she tossed her blankets aside and slowly raised the hem of her nightgown. Her long delicate fingers nervously inched towards her center where she was surprised to find a pool of hot wet stickiness. She brought her fingers up so that she could see them, the clear warm fluid lubricated her fingertips as they rubbed together in curiosity. She bit her lip again and moved her fingers towards her center again, this time allowing them to explore her most feminine of parts. She gasped as her fingertips brushed over her hardened nub, her eyes opening wide. She shifted herself on her pillows so that she was sitting up a bit more, letting her leg spread wide. She looked down towards her center and started touching the nub again, this time trying a small circular pattern. Without really knowing it, a long, heated groan slowly escaped her throat.

Suddenly the room felt too hot and she found herself slipping out of her nightgown and letting it fall to the floor. She laid back down and gazed at her hard, puckered nipples in wonder. She let her fingers brush over them and felt another jolt and twitch from her core. Her breathing was quicker now. Her body wanted her touch, but she really wasn’t sure what the conclusion of all of it would be. She closed her eyes and thought about Jack watching her. Her whole body tingled with heat, partially from the embarrassment such an idea brought her, partially from the naughtiness of the idea.

She moved her hands over her body, pretending they were Jack’s. Her attempt was feeble at best, her fingertips grazing her nipples, causing her to grow wetter with every tease, the nub she was playing with throbbed painfully. She tried rubbing it again to try and gain some relief, only to be brought to a precipice she was too frightened to jump over. Finally, she slammed her fists on either side of her body and growled in aggravation. She had to stop, she was driving herself mad. She rolled over and pulled her blankets up to her neck, forcing herself to go to sleep.

When she awoke the next morning, she felt ashamed for touching herself. She looked around the room, glad she had given most of the staff the day off, and then slowly dressed herself in a simple muslin summer dress. She tied her hair back with a white ribbon and then went downstairs.

After several hours a plenty of commotion, she managed to get Frank and everything he needed, on a carriage and off to meet her father in town. It was fairly early and she hadn’t seen Jack, she presumed he was sleeping in, which filled her with both relief and a little sadness. She was essentially alone with him now. After dinner was prepared it was being left on the sideboard for them to serve themselves. Alone with Jack…and she was daring to wear the confection she bought for a masquerade that hadn’t been “proper”. She had yielded to her father’s wishes, but now she wondered if Jack would find it gauche…would he still like her afterwards?

She spent the rest of the day avoiding him and doing her best to work up the courage to meet him for dinner. After her fantasies the previous evening, she was afraid she would embarrass herself in some way. As she was changing for dinner, she prayed that she would not betray her emotions. She could not be seen as an easy target.

She placed the last of her pins in her hair, most of it piled on her head artfully with a few locks of her hair curled and delicately draped over her shoulder. The dress was made of a beautiful blood red satin. While it was low cut, it was the back that her father had had the most objection to. The back of her dress scooped down to the nape of her back, leaving the expanse of her milky back and shoulders exposed. Given the dress’s artfully constructed bodice, she didn’t need a corset, not that one could have been worn.

The skirt was full with layers of the red satin, each layer accented with black lace and beading at the hem. She grinned at her reflection and decided to put on the mask that she had purchased to go with it in the shape of a butterfly but constructed of black lace with a matching red satin ribbon to tie it on. She placed the mask over her eyes and made a bow behind her head with the red ribbon. She took a deep breath and prayed her didn’t laugh at her.

She slowly descended the stairs and smiled as she heard the noises that could have only been Jack making himself a plate of food. She was glad he was already there; it would have been degrading had she had to wait for him. She pressed her lips together a few times, bringing to them an even rosier hue, and then walked into the dining room.

“I trust you haven’t had to wait long,” She said, mustering an extremely convincing amount of fake confidence. “I had purchased this dress for a masquerade, I trust you don’t mind that I take the entire ensemble for an airing,” she grinned, motioning to her mask and then slowly descending into her chair.