Western Front

[SandS13]

The cattle moved about the acres. Benjamin Render looked out at them from his place on his horse.

"Two missing you say? That makes six in three weeks. And none dead, just gone. This is concerning."

The ranch hand nodded. "What should we do sir?"

Benjamin frowned. "I need to think about it."

He turned his horse and road back to his home. He crested the hill and began the descent towards the home he shared with his wife, his two sons and their wives and now his niece. He had this place built for his family. He and his wife, Abegail had left the east coast for a life out west on land and on a ranch that he had always dreamed of. He chose Little Springs, purchased this land just outside the town and built the life he had always dreamed of.

For years the ranch was prosperous. Cattle and well kept gardens. They helped put Little Springs on the map. Benjamin had a hand in deals that brought the railroad to town. With it came brothels, stores, gambling...

Reputations grew and now Benjamin was facing a ranchers worst nightmare. They are poachers. His cattle was going missing.

As he pulled the horse to a stop and slid off his horse Benjamin made a decision.

Inside his family was at the breakfast table. Abegail had carefully decorated the house. It was like their home they had in Boston, big and made for large gatherings and a large family. His son, Arthur sat with his very pregnant wife Anna. His other son, Johnathan sat with his wife, Marianne. His wife, Abegail sat at one end. The last figure at the table, dressed in black was his niece, Victoria.

The dark haired beauty had arrived only a month ago. Her husband had died and now, in her fourth month of mourning she chose to come out here to stay with them. Benjamin doted on his niece. She was smart and had a head for business.

"I am going into town today. It is time to hire someone. Two more have gone missing. We need protection."

Abegail tsked. "Guns, I don't like it."

"Mother, dear there are already guns on the property." Johnathan rustled his paper.

"Yes but not for well, your father is talking about hired goons."

Benjamin sat and began eating his breakfast. "I will be hiring someone who will be in charge of protecting out investments in whatever way he sees fit."

"Besides, if they become too daring they may come for the women..." Johnathan teased. Abegail gasped.

"That's enough. There will be no such issue. I will be hiring someone." Benjamin scolded his son.

"May I go with you? I need to pick up a few things." Victoria looked up at her uncle.

"Of course." Benjamin gave his niece a slight nod.
------
The road was bumpy and the pair were quiet in the wagon. Victoria sat and looked at the scenery. The town was not far and as they entered they found it bustling. Her uncle frowned at the women who lounged on the porch of the brothel. Victoria stifled a smile at his discomfort. He parked the wagon and helped her down.

"I will see you for lunch."

She nodded and headed off to the general store. Benjamin turned and headed off. He had a few leads on men that might be good hires for the task at hand.

 

[Strangebuddy]

“A wolf can live on its own as long as it finds a new pack but a coyote on its own will only meet a terrible end.”

The man, who went by the name “Wolf” when he was doing robberies, aimed a gun at Jake’s head, barely perturbed by the gun Jake aimed at his. They were in a small cave in the Mesa flats: the last hideout their gang had left.

“Shoot, Wally, those names were just things we picked out of a hat. Thinking yourself a wolf! Musta got something weird stuck in your brain. Don’t worry, one pull of my trigger and we’ll get it right out.” Said Jake, his unblinking eyes burrowing into Wally’s.

“Fate chose those names, Coyote.” Wally said solemnly, “Fox was a tricky bastard but those dogs out there,” he said, tipping his head towards the back of the cave to where the sound of lawmen attacking their barricade was coming from, “they got him. Vulture couldn’t stop looting our fallen long enough to get away, so now it’s just me and you and the corpse of some poor sonuvabitch who tried to rob us.

Jake didn’t look down. Neither of them knew the man. He had just been unlucky enough to find and try to rob their hideout that morning. For all intents and purposes he was a nobody but that was what made him so valuable: he was a nobody who the lawmen didn’t know was in here, who was about Jake and Wally’s age and build. A change of clothes and a bullet or two more in the face and the lawmen would think he was one of them, letting one of them slip off into the night.

But just one. To get the law satisfied, there would need to be two bodies.

“Y’know they say everyone becomes a philosopher right before they die Wally. Not a good sign for you.” Yet Jake didn’t pull the trigger. Wally, or “Wolf” as he liked to call himself, was the faster hand. Even if he got his shot off, Wally would definitely shoot him. At the same time, Jake had the faster eye. Even if the trigger was slower, he’d pull it fast enough as he saw the hammer fire to blow Wally’s brains out.

“Heh. Maybe so. So let me sell it to ya like this. I leave, I can play the part of a dog. There’s a reason I was the leader after all. People can buy me as a tough but overall civilized folk. You though? You’d cheat at a card game even if you had the winning hand, you drink like a fish, and you can’t keep your eyes or hands off of a woman. You walk out of this cave you’ll have a bullet I you within a week. You’re a good outlaw. A mean sonuvabitch...but you can’t go civilized. In the legends ole Coyote is a trickster but everyone always figures him out, you’re no different. Think about it. I’ll make it quick and at least one of us will live.”

Jake paused. . “You’re right Wolf...just please let me say one more thing before I die.” Jake said, dropping his gun. Wally looked stunned but kept his eyes on Jakes face.

Jake caught the gun in midair in his left hand and fired two shots into Wally’s gut, the shock making him drop the gun.

“I’m ambidextrous you piece of shit.” He kicked the gun away and stripped himself then the corpse. Fortunately he only had to change shirts, boots and belt with the man, “besides, shooting me in the head? How would that have worked for the rangers outside? They heard you killing this summbitch so is both getting clean headshots would make no sense. No, I shot you in the gut and with your last strength you,” he picked up Wally’s gun and fired Two more times into the corpse, making its face unrecognizable, “blasted me away, but I got one more in you before I died.”

“You’ll see Coyote. You’ll see. You’ll be in hell soon and You’ll tell me I was right.” Wally said as he passed.

“We’ll see Wally. We’ll see.”

—-
It had been three months since then. Jake, now known as ‘Clay’ had slipped away into the night. The rangers had bought the lie. To the world, Jake was dead. He slipped away and joined a wagon train as protection and wandered around doing odd jobs. Clay had found himself in Little Springs, holding onto the last of his cash. Right now he was losing a game of cards, one he could easily have won back in his cheating days, and nursing a sarsaparilla. He hated Wally and didn’t want to prove the bastard right but it was so hard to play it straight when a bevy of temptations surrounded him, such as the saloon girl who was massaging his shoulders.

“C’mon Clay, i know somewhere you can get reaaaaaally lucky. I’ll give you a hint. It’s upstairs in my room.”

“Yours is a noble profession Claribelle and I’m sure there are bountiful pleasures to be found in your sheets but I’m afraid my assets are running a bit short.”

The girl stopped and went on to the next man, not wanting to try and draw water from a dry well. Clay wanted a woman, needed one, but one girl would turn to two, then three. He’d splurge on them, drink till he was past drunk and then he’d be Jake-no, Coyote again. Even a single slip and he’d plunge.

“Ya hear about Render? He been having some cattle go missing, the way I hear it.”

“Heh, the city slicker’s finally running into some trouble, huh? Serves him right. Little Springs was a quiet town and then he comes in slinging his money around like he owns the place.”

“I won’t hear a word of it. Render’s have been good to us. They’re a respectable family and they may have been born in the East but they’re hardworking folk.”

“Still, the balls someone must have to rustle their cattle. Ain’t something your average cowpoke would do.”

Clay got up. Town gossip wasn’t his style. All he knew about the Renders was that they had money and raised cattle. A respectable life but they and their troubles meant little to him. He needed to get moving on soon. Lazing at the saloon was just inviting temptation.

“Now hold on Clay. What’s your rush?” An old man side-eyed him, “You getting jumpy?”

“Just was getting some air. I’m low on cash and high on disappointment so I’m heading off, gotta problem with that.”

“Well no...but it’s odd ain’t it? You been in town a month now. You got some nice calluses on your hand but I ain’t seen you pull a gun once. You don’t drink, you go to bed early, you don’t take a woman to bed and no one knows where you go at night.”

“Walks, I go on walks.” Clay’s face was stoic but inside he was fuming. He played things straight, he went to church for chrissakes, and now that made him suspicious.

“A desperate man does a lot of things. Cattle rustling would be easy to do for a strong man like you. And the thefts got worse after you came to town. A stranger would have no problem with messing with a the Renders.”

“Do I smell like cow pies? I don’t know Jack about cows.”

“Don’t need to know much to steal them.” The other patrons were turning on him, whether out of genuine belief in the coincidences, annoyance with Clay, or boredom, they were eyeing him up.

“I don’t rightly appreciate the insinuation. If you got accusations, take em to the Sherrif. I got these calluses defending wagon trains. I go on walks because I hate your all’s company and I drink Sarsparillas because I like them. Now if you’re just looking for a tussle cause you don’t have money for whores and your sheeps are claiming they have headaches and you can only get off by attacking a man whose crime is taking walks, then go elsewhere cause I ain’t got time for this shit.”

Clay rose up to his height of 5’10 and strolled out the door, glad he at least didn’t have to shoot his way out. While his guns were with the Sherrif, his mind had formulated a plan on getting the small gun from Claribelle’s garter belt, then the gun from the man at his table who was cheating at poker, then using that to get the shotgun that was kept behind the bar.

Instead he heard three sets of feet chase after him. Clay sighed. The first stopped, shifting his weight, and clay ducked to the side to come under the punch and and grab the arm to flip him over his head. He then kicked the saloon door, bashing the next one to come out and making him fall back into the other pursuer.

Clay saw the first man try to get up but put his boot down on his chest.

“Think about it reallll hard, partner. I just whooped you without even looking and being in a fairly good mood. Do you want to find out what happens when I got a good look at you and I’m pissed off?”

Clay peered into him as though he had him square in his sights and was prepared to watch the life fade from his eyes. The man was paralyzed with fear and when Clay looked back, the other pursuers retreated back to their booze.

“Nothing to see here folks!” Clay said, putting on a jovial smile as the townsfolk stared at him, “a little daytime drinking got a bit out of hand. We’re good now.”

He tipped his hat to some of them, including Benjamin. He helped the man up and whispered to him “now get inside before I regret not shoving my spurs in your eyeholes.” The man ran off.

He needed some relief. He sized up Benjamin, having no idea who he was but needing to get a cigar or cigarette as soon as possible. “hey mister, sorry you saw that. Would you happen to have a smoke? Afraid my temper got the best of me when those fellas got rough there and I need to relax a bit.”

 

[SandS13]

Victoria did not witness the scuffle. She was already inside the general store. She handed over some letters to be posted for her. Her parents and the man who managed her finances were still back home and she corresponded with them weekly. A great deal of money had been left to her at the time of her husband's death, add her own family wealth and Victoria took great pain to ensure things stayed in order.

She also handed over a small list of things she needed. A new comb, a new hand mirror and some handkerchiefs as her aunt insisted she take up embroidery despite Victoria having absolutely no interest in it what so ever.

Outside though Benjamin saw everything. He watched as the man ducked and kept the man who was trying to attack him down on the ground. He watched the man defuse the situation and then explain to everyone there was nothing to see. He claimed day drinking but Benjamin knew that wasn't the case.

"I would say compared to them you handled it quite well." The man asked for a smoke. Benjamin chuckled a little. "I don't have one on me but allow me to treat you to one. Come along."

He led the way to nicer of the two hotels and into their restaurant. To the far back end was a lounge where men tended to gather after dinner for a cigar and drink. Benjamin nodded to the owner and made his way to that area with the stranger in tow.

"I will be meeting my niece here later so if this suits you we can enjoy a cigar and a drink of your choice."

It was then that he stopped and turning, faced the man. "I haven't introduced myself. Benjamin Render. I have to say I am impressed at how you handled yourself. A lesser man would have taken to beating him or worse." He put out his hand for the man to shake.

Benjamin was already considering that perhaps this man with his ability and what he had seen of his disposition might be inclined to work for him. Of course, Benjamin needed a man who could also handle a gun but there was still time to have that discussion with the man over their cigars.
------
Victoria looked through a catalogue as the shop keep packaged up her few items. She flipped through pages of dresses. Many were just slightly out of style for the east coast but very much in fashion here in the west. This was the new frontier after all. The newest fashions didn't make their way here very quickly. Truly though it wasn't the styles that Victoria cared about. Fashion and trends were never something that caught her engagement. It was the colours. She still donned the black of mourning and she wasn't quite sure when she would stop. She longed for colour again but it felt so disrespectful to his memory.

Her eyes scanned the page and swatches of material. Under her glove she still wore her wedding band. That too she had not been able to convince herself to take off. Oh, Anna and Marianne had been asking her since she arrived when she might give up her mourning but Victoria knew it was not for her benefit. They wanted to throw a party and her 'coming out' of her mourning was the excuse they were looking for. It would be a reason to bring everyone they knew together both from here in Little Springs and from back home.

All she had to do was hint that it was time and they would be a twitter with party planning.

She closed the catalogue and picked up her package. She bid the shop keeper good bye and head back out to the street. There were lots of people around. A group of children ran past. Little Springs was quite a bit busier than she had expected. In truth though she had decided to come based on letters from her uncle but that was before the town had had a major boost in their economy. The roads were still dirt, unlike home but it was showing signs of one day being a city. A proper city.

A few men glanced her way but most respected the black clothing. It was one thing to harass a brothel girl, it was another to do so to a widow even if she was quite young.

Victoria headed to the inn with the nice restaurant as her uncle had instructed. She got a table for the two of them, ordered tea and pulled out a book from her handbag to read as she waited for him. She had no idea that he was in the backroom.

 

[Strangebuddy]

Clay shrugged, “Jess got some experience from my days on the wagon trains, that’s all but I’ll take up your kind offer.” It wasn’t like he had anywhere to be and Clay could practically smell the money off of the man and the way the man was sizing him up made it clear that The money might find its way to him if he played his cards right.

As they headed towards the hotel, Clay formed an impression of the man. He had an air of confidence about him, that much was certain. He knew the town well so he must have been a local and being able to go to such a fancy establishment without being a guest meant he didn’t just have money: he had standing. The fact he mentioned a niece suggested a family man.

Clay nodded at the offer. It would mean he’d have to drink something a bit harder (An establishment like this likely didn’t have anything that wasn’t top shelf anyway) but a single real drink shouldn’t be too difficult.

“A bourbon then. Perfect drink for some casual conversation.” A whiskey would be too risky and a bourbon seemed appropriate for the high class setting.

Then the man, Render, revealed who he really was and Clay’s eyes shot wide open for a second and then settled as his lips parted for a stoic, “huh.”

It was an odd coincidence but Clay quickly regained his composure. Clay could feel a business proposition coming on and while his empty wallet was desperate for cash, he couldn’t let the old fart see him get impressed.

“Well Mr. Render,” Clay said, letting his hand turn over in the casual style, “I’m far from being able to look down on any man but the fact is, once man is down: he’s down. True, he had attacked me but by simply showing him how outmatches he was, I took the fight from him. If I had debased myself by beating him to say, send a message to the two in the bar, what would it have achieved? A man trying to get a sawbones in the middle of the day, unable to go back to his job and provide for himself, a group of townsfolk who had their morning ruined by a pointless act of brutality, and a night in jail for myself. Utterly worthless. By simply showing him he had no chance, all that was lost was a bit of pride, easily recovered with some liquid courage, and a mild distraction for the good folk..and in my case I seem to have gained a cigar, a good drink, and an intriguing conversational partner.”

He smiled. The best lies were mostly true and Clay had told a whopper. True, there was no point in beating a down man...in broad daylight, where the law could see you, where witnesses were all around, when you weren’t a local and suspicions for a hanging crime had been levied against you. Besides, when Clay went by Jake, he had found a beaten man tended to show up with a gun. If you were going to beat a man, you maybas well put a bullet in them. Teaching a lesson only taught the student to take the teacher out before they threw a punch.

“Now Mr. Render, while I must say I love the setting and receiving compliments, I must ask why you invited me for a conversation. Surely a man of your means and industry must be too busy for conversation alone, unless you had another goal in mind.”

 

[SandS13]

Benjamin smiled as he listened to the man talk. He cut two cigars and handed one to the man. He lit his and began to take a drag off of it. With an exhale the smoke swirled about his head.

"Well, I admired the way you handled that back that there and it puts me in mind of the reason I came to town today. I have some issues out at my ranch. Poachers seem to think my cattle are fair game and I think it is time to be a little more forceful in turning them away. Thing is I don't want just any man around my ranch. Around my family. I don't want some hot head who shoots first and simply angers the poachers. I want someone who is going to send the right message to them. I want someone who is going to make sure they know that my ranch is not where they want to be. I need a man who will protect my cattle, my ranch hands and my family. I need someone I can trust."

He took another drag of his cigar.

"From what I saw of that tussle you are a man who thinks. From what you just told me I believe you are a man who thinks and sees things the same way I do. From all those thoughts I am inclined to make you an offer. A job, at my ranch as a protector of sorts. Of course there are a few things to consider and I would know your name before we decide fully."

Their drinks were set down for them and Benjamin took another drag of his cigar.

"I propose that you think on it, ponder any questions you might have and then we can have lunch."

Benjamin looked to the man. "What do you think?"
----
Victoria scanned the page and made a mental note of the plant. It said it should grow here. If it was on the grounds of the ranch she wanted to find it. The book said it was good for pain reduction. This was a worthwhile plant to have.

Her aunt wanted her to take up embroidery and other womanly habits. Her aunt was aghast because Victoria tackled her finances and business affairs. That was supposed to be a man's job. What her aunt didn't understand was that her deceased husband had treated her as an intellectual equal. He had included her in the financial decisions and ensured she always knew where their money was.

He also valued her love of knowledge and her desire to learn knew things. He found her mind interesting.

She sighed, lost between thoughts of her husband and the plants in her book. Perhaps her life would be easier if she was more like her cousin's wives. Easier but not happy.

Victoria sipped her tea and turned her attention back to her book.

 

[Strangebuddy]

Clay thought about the offer. On the surface, it seemed like a solid deal. Scaring some rustlers off would be little trouble and Render was king shit in this town: no way would he try to squeeze Jake out of his pay. It also would keep him out of town, away from the surly citizens, the booze, and the women. Render had mentioned a niece on back at the Ranch but she was likely some scraggly kid, nothing that would Jake would want any part of.

Yet, there were some catches. Protecting wagon trains was one thing: the folk from out East never remembered a name of the hired guns, so Clay never had a question lobbied his way. If he stayed in one place, he’d have more eyes on him, people making rapport with him, people learning his face...not good for an ex-outlaw, even one who the law thought was dead.

What was more, there were some oddities with the situation:

“Clay, Mr. Render, Clay Barkley, and I would be happy to be your man and keep your herd safe, though I must declare that I would like your thoughts on the situation at your ranch.” Clay kept his smile pleasant, “Now, you say “poachers” a choice of words that would seem to indicate that you have not been subject to a mass rustling of your bovine companions, would that be right? A few here and there?”

“Now don’t let me undersell your situation. Even a single cow is a fine source of meat and money, but it would seem strange for someone to poach a few from you. I haven’t been in town too long but I know the custom brands your family use, anyone who is stealing a cow couldn’t sell local or get caught right away. They could sell a far way away but not too profitable unless they had a huge herd. Now of course could be some dumb kids from around town or a starving family but the latter ain’t too common in town and no one family needs a regular supply of beef in that quantity lessen they want some serious indigestion, and the former would have either snuck the cow back or been bragging about it at the saloon.”

“So in your expert opinion, what do you think these poachers are aiming for?”

Clay in his outlaw mind thought of several possibilities:

1. They were testing the cow’s security. Taking one here and one there and keeping the stolen bovines hidden would give an idea how feasible a larger operation would be.

2. They were testing the ranch’s security. If a ranch couldn’t keep it’s cows safe, the family wouldn’t be much safer.

3. Sabotaging the Render name. Get a few cows, let em get scrawny, or worse, hoof n mouth, and then let me show up in public or get someone from the local government to see them. Even if the locals knew the cows were missing, a thing like that could cause the destruction of the herd, letting another interested business buy the ranch for a small amount of cash.

...not that Clay had ever done anything like those ideas...but if he were a rustling sunnavabitch he would consider those plans. Either way, this would mean a bit more trouble than scaring off a few punks.

 

[SandS13]

Benjamin gave a slight smile as the man introduced him and asked what he thought the poachers motivations might be. He took a long drag of his cigar and exhaled slowly.

"A very good question Mr Barkley. Before I answer I want to say, call me Benjamin and I am happy to hear you are interested in the position. We will shake on it after lunch. Go over some terms as well."

He reached out, grabbed his glass and took a drink. As he lowered it Benjamin turned to look at Clay.

"In my opinion I think these are calculated moves. They are testing my ranch hands, my security and the way we track the cattle. I fear the implications of this in the long term. It could be a rival rancher. It could be a gang with plans to come in and run the town. The thought being, take down the big ranch and they can rule all. It makes me fear for my family. What does it say about a man who cannot protect their cattle? What else can I not protect? My sons? Their wives? My soon to be born grandchild? My niece? That is what I feel is the reason."

Another puff of the cigar. "Now that is my thought. It could be something like sabotage but I don't think so. The cows were taken at different times from different fields as if testing. Perhaps they tried other times and it happened to be when my men were there or the terrain was too treacherous. I can't be sure."

He nubbed out the cigar. "If you are still interested Mr Barkley I suggest we finish our drinks and get a table with my niece for lunch. We can discuss terms and you can come see the ranch. Then we will shake on the deal."
---------
Victoria finished her tea and ordered a sherry. It was late enough in the day and she was feeling a bit more daring and relaxed. It was a good day so far. She had mailed letters, picked up some things and made a plan to stroll the ranch grounds later to gather some plants.

She smiled to herself, the brightness of it a contrast to the black of her dress.

"Would you like to order lunch now?"

Victoria looked up at the waiter. "I was planning to wait for my uncle."

"Yes, ma'am but he is in the next room and it seems they are almost concluded their conversation." A third chair was placed at the table. Victoria cocked her head a little at the sight.

"They?" She inwardly scolded herself for questioning. If her uncle had invited another to lunch that was up to him. "Yes, I will order."

She ordered her lunch and waited. Her mind wondered who else might be joining them. Her uncle had mentioned needing to hire someone. Perhaps this was that someone. It intrigued her. Victoria was always curious about the people who worked the ranch. The stories of their lives were always so varied and interesting.

Her napkin was placed on her nap and her book was put away as she waited for her uncle and his companion to join her.

 

[Strangebuddy]

The old man sure knew his stuff, Clay had to give him that. It would be a risky job but knowing Render knew the state of things put Clay at ease. An incompetent employer wouldn't be worth the risk, would refuse providing resources even if they were badly needed. Clay could at least be convinced that Render would work with him if he took the job. When Render reminded him that that the ranch was the key to the town, that started another train of the thought.

Clay had thought that getting tied up with a large rancher might be risky...but a big enough rancher and that might not be an issue. If he played his cards right, even if the law took notice they wouldn't want to cross Render and if Render did cross him, the job sounded like it would easily let him squirrel away a significant pile of cash so he could slip away.

Adding it all up, Clay decided to take the job. If things got too hot, he could slip away in the night. He'd play coy a bit to see what Render would offer but as far as Clay was concerned, he'd take the job. Beside, ranch life might be good for resisting temptation. Just a bunch of men, low stakes gambling, limited booze, and all of the women would be too old or too young for Clay to be interested in or already spoken for.

Clay followed suit and put out his cigar.

"sounds mighty fine Mr. Render, mighty fine." He rose out of his chair and finished his drink, "I'm looking forward to the vittles and the Ranch."

He headed to the door and held it open for Benjamin, as he held it open, he spied a comely woman in a black dress. Oh she was a sight and he could spend hours looking at her but he didn't dare drink her in lest Render find out he was a lech. Oh well, not like he would be seeing much of her once they got to the ranch.

 

[SandS13]

Benjamin lead the way into the lunch room and to the table where Victoria sat. The woman looked up as her uncle approached.

"Good aftern-" Her eyes fell on the man behind her uncle. Victoria cleared her throat. "Pardon me. Good afternoon uncle." She stood to greet the men.

Benjamin nodded to his niece as she stood. He met her eyes and a smile formed on his lips. "This is Mr. Clay Barkley. He is considering a job at the ranch, protecting the cattle."

Victoria turned to the man. She held out a hand to him.

"Clay, let me introduce you to my niece Victoria. Recently arrived from the east coast. As you may have been able to tell she is mourning. Husband."

Victoria smiled a little and tried not to openly stare at the man. He was handsome. He was not the typical gentleman like her husband had been. She felt a warmth in her cheeks.

"A pleasure Mr Barkley." Blue eyes locked on his for a moment. She blinked once. "Will you be joining us?"

Benjamin chuckled inwardly. It was interesting to watch the interaction between the pair. "Come, sit. Both of you."

He took a seat and waited for them.

"Good, I am glad you will join us. The food here is lovely."

 

[Strangebuddy]

Clay barely listened to Benjamin as he eyed up Victoria. When he had heard "niece" he thought of some little brat with chocolate stained cheeks and pigtails, not a proper woman...and what a woman! Even in mourning dress she struck a fine figure and her eyes were neither naive nor jaded and shone with some real culture and intelligence, a look that paired with her beauty made her very tempting yet very dangerous for Clay. After all, if she was too intelligent and worldly she could likely see through him. Yet with a face and body like that, Clay would be mad to not even try.

"Pleasure to meet ya, ma'am" he took her hand, briefly admiring its softness, and shook it firmly but briefly, "sorry for your loss."

He took a seat and ordered a steak, medium rare, and some wine, still gentle enough to avoid a buzz. He looked at Render, then Victoria, "I must say, wouldn't expect this kind of fancy digs this far west, back when I was protecting wagon trains, we were lucky to arrive at a town that had an outhouse built, much less a fine establishment like this one."

He took a quick glance at Victoria, "Of course it's also rare to find such refined persons as yourselves out west."

He wanted to leer and lust over Victoria but even at his worst, Clay knew not to lust after the boss's family right in front of him.

 

[SandS13]

Victoria gave a polite nod at his condolences. She took her seat but found herself glancing back at Clay. Food was ordered. She felt a strange tightness in her stomach. She liked the look of him and the sound of his voice.

Benjamin nodded and took a drink from his glass. "The town wasn't always this way. We have worked hard to establish it and some good businesses. Course, prosperity comes with things like brothels and gambling but one cannot begrudge a man a little fun, for those that wish to partake of course."

Victoria knew her uncle wasn't one for gambling and women but his sons were another story. Well, not the women part from what she could tell of them but the gambling. Both liked to play cards, one a little more hooked on the constant need to win. Her uncle was aware that it occurred and seemed fine with it as long as it didn't interfere with the home life. The boys both received stipends that ensured they and their wives never wanted for anything. She also knew her uncle was being diplomatic so that Clay knew he would not be judged for such activities.

An image of him, bare chested and leaning over a woman flashed in her mind making Victoria's cheeks warm.

"We come from out east. Some of our family is still there, like Victoria's parents. Aunts and all that. My wife and I wanted to venture out here, make a life for our family out here."

The food arrived and Benjamin lifted his fork. "Before I forget, Clay, if you take the job do you wish to stay on the ranch? I feel it would be easier for you but I will leave that to you. If you do wish to stay out with us there is a small house, one I built when we first arrived as the ranch was being establish. It is in good condition and perfect for a man to live in. Big enough for a small family too if you have a wife and children to house. We would be happy to have them."

Benjamin glanced at his niece. Victoria was still working on her very inappropriate thoughts and was looking at her own plate as her uncle spoke. At the talk of a wife she looked up and at Clay.

"Oh yes, the ranch is a lovely place for a family." She met his eyes for a moment before demurely looking away.

 

[Strangebuddy]

Clay kept a careful eye on Victoria as he ate. She definitely was looking at him with a hungry eye.

"Guess even grief can't keep the lust away for too long" he thought. He had to admit, even if the job was dangerous, he had a much better appreciation for the perk of getting to spend time with such a gorgeous lady. thoughts of having a roll in the hay with her began to fill his mind and he had to quickly take another drink to take his mind off of Victoria's shapely form.

Clay listened to Benjamin, nodding appreciatively as Benjamin admitted gambling and whoring being an acceptable vice. He seemed like a reasonable man. Victoria being from out East made sense. While she looked like she had some strength she lacked some of the roughness that even the most gentle schoolgirl picked up in the west.

When he heard the question he smiled. This job was sounding better and better.

"No, no family or wife. Ain't found the right woman yet." He said, letting a quick smile come out with a glance to Victoria, "though," in response to Victoria's glance, "It does sound nice getting to raie a little family out here."

Clay ate with healthy gusto, "I must say Benjamin, you're a hell of a business man. I' liable to sign say yes right now but I'm also really itching to see this ranch of yours if you and Victoria wouldn't mind me catching a ride back with you.

 

[SandS13]

She raised the napkin to her lips in an effort to hide the faint blush that spread on her cheeks. Clay had looked her way as he spoke of not being married yet.

You are in mourning. You should not be fawning like a school girl. She tried to chastise herself but found it hard. This man certainly had her in knots. It pleased her to think he might come out to the ranch, work there and even live there. Perhaps she would have time to talk with him, get to know him better.

Victoria tried to keep other thoughts of what they might do at bay.

She finished her meal and sat sipping her tea as the men finished.

Benjamin nodded. "We would be happy to have you ride back with us. I would like you to see the ranch, the little house if you desire. I want you to know what you are getting into before you say yes. You should meet the rest of the family and if things go well, I hope you will stay and have dinner with us tonight." He took a drink. "The family would welcome some distraction. One of my daughters in law is expecting any day now and I fear they all feel a little cooped up. A new face with new stories will perk things up. Don't you agree Victoria?"

Victoria let her fingers trace along the cover of her book as her uncle spoke. She drifted into a little daydream, not something the practical woman was prone to doing. Little house...Clay, shirtless with coffee in hand, standing outside in the morning air...

"Victoria?"

The woman jumped a little. "I am sorry uncle, my mind was elsewhere." Warmth spread up her neck and into her cheeks. "I got a letter from home about the estate and was just pondering some investments." A lie but plausible enough for her uncle to believe.

Benjamin smirked. "Yes, my niece has a head for money and investments. Her husband left her well off and of course, her family money is there to be looked after. She, unlike a lot of women who might be in her position, prefers to be hands on. My wife does not approve, feels it isn't proper but I admire a strong mind in a woman. Don't you agree Clay?" The smirk remained as he looked to the man.

 

[Strangebuddy]

"Careful 'Clay' He thought "There's money to be made. Keep your lusts in check. If you want to rut bide your time

Clay couldn't help but shoot some looks back at Victoria as he saw her blush. She was cute, no doubt about that..and had a mind for money and some money of her own. For a moment in his mind he was back to being the Coyote, salivating over his prey. He could see Victoria sprawled out on his bed, clothed only in sweat and exhaustion as he counted the potential money. He could just sink his fangs into her and devour her.

Clay blinked just in time to answer Benjamin's question. He had to be more careful, even if Victoria was a potential mark, he had a lot more to gain by living the straight and narrow. He pushed his drink away before he answered, he needed a clear head if he was to make it though today.

"Why yes, Benjamin. Personally I think a woman who knows what she wants and has the strength of mind to go get it is very admirable, Ms. Victoria." he said, addressing the young woman, "A strong woman is a wonderful thing to encounter." He let a smile paint over his lips. "

 

[SandS13]

Benjamin chuckled. "If only her aunt shared your sentiment. Her cousins just long for her to get out of mourning clothes and discuss little of business."

"Hush now uncle. You speak as if the women in your family have no minds and care for little other than frivolous things."

"If the shoe fits my dear. If the shoe fits..." He stood. "Clay, I will take care of the bill if you would escort my niece out to my carriage. You can ride with us or on your own horse. Whichever you wish."

He moved away, not listening for an answer from the man. He was smiling to himself as he walked away from the couple.

Victoria glanced at her lap demurely. "You do not have to sir. I can manage. My uncle likes to amuse himself by sometimes putting others on the spot."

She gathered her gloves and slipped them on. Next, she stood and picked up her small package and her book. She could feel her heart beating hard and fast. She hadn't considered when her husband died that she would find herself in a scenario like this.

 

[Strangebuddy]

In truth, Clay had no horse of his own. The few meager possessions he had, save his guns, were on him at the moment. Though even if he had one he would still take the opportunity to ride in the carriage with Victoria. Oh yes, he was practically salivating at the thought of being even closer to her, his bestial instincts almost slipping through. He barely noticed Benjamin slip away as his mind thought of getting to spend time with the young, refined woman.

"Not at all Miss Victoria," He said politely, caging his lusts behind a gentile smile, "I was going to request a ride if your uncle hadn't offered and besides, having the company of a strong refined young woman like yourself is a rare treat out in these parts. Think of it less like me escorting you and merely the two of us, a man and a woman, having a leisurely stroll on a fine day."

He let his smile turn into a bit of a smirk for a moment, trying to let her know that he hadn't been oblivious to her wandering eyes...and he wasn't opposed to their looks.

He was tempted to take her hand but instead merely Turned his eyes away from her and went over to the entrance, where he held the door open for her.

"If you wouldn't mind showing me the way, Ms. Victoria? I'll stay close, and please, no more "sir" just Clay will do.'

 

[SandS13]

She was a little surprised and pleased that he didn't immediately jump to take her arm or otherwise help her out the door. It showed her that he meant what he stated about strong women. He recognized she did not need nor desire coddling.

He was still a gentleman though and held the door for her. She smiled as she passed by him. "Thank you, Clay." Victoria tested the name in a soft, gentle tone. She licked her lips lightly. "This way."

She led him down the wood stairs to the dirt road. "So have you been in the town long? I am still getting used to it but I like it. Quieter than where I came from. There is something nice about that."

Victoria walked near him but not too near by. She kept a respectful distant though she did not wish to make him think she was avoiding him. Her uncle's carriage was not far.

 

[Strangebuddy]

Clay thought carefully about the answer.

"I've been here for about a month now. I grew up West of here and I'd say it's a mighty fine little town y'all got here. Even compared to other towns it's pretty quiet and you don't run into some of the bigger problems you do in other towns. Though, I'll be honest, before your Uncle offered me a job I was thinking of leaving as a sleepy town tends not to need my services for long...but having met your uncle and you, I think that would have been a severe mistake."

"Still though, you must miss something from the big city, right? Your uncle seems like a great man but don't you ever miss the big city life?"

 

[SandS13]

They approached the carriage and she paused beside it. Victoria looked thoughtful at the question. “I suppose I miss some of my friends or the various gatherings. The museums and theatre but a lot of it reminds me of a life I had there, happiness that was short lived. I prefer it here. A new start, new people and a new life for myself. My aunt and cousins would have it as it was back east, parties and such. They will get that I am sure but for now I am happy here and look forward to all the things this place will bring me.”

She smiled and the driver opened the door for her. Behind them Benjamin was approaching. “Alright everyone in. Let’s move so your aunt can start making a fuss about a guest and I can show Clay around.” He helped Victoria in and then waited for Clay to follow.

In the carriage, Victoria sat with her back to the side where the driver was sitting. The seat across empty. Her uncle likes to face front so he could look out the window and see what was ahead.

 

[Strangebuddy]

Clay listened intently, trying to glean any clues he could find to find a way to worm his way into Victoria's good graces. She was looking for a new start and new opportunities. Clay would need to focus on how he could be one of those new opportunities.

"It would seem you've the spirit of a pioneering woman, Ms. Victoria." Clay said, "I believe I can relate to wanting a fresh start...a (he struggled with the word) "metamorphosis" if you will. Wanting to cast off the old you and come out as a butterfly...though if you don't mind me saying, I'll bet when you emerge you'll be far prettier than the ole monarchs we get out this way, yes sir."

Yes, Clay could sympathize with wanting to leave the past behind, though if Victoria was a butterfly in its chrysalis, he was instead a coyote wearing the skin of a dog.

Clay sat across from Victoria, stretching himself out like a cat he waited for the wagon to get going before he spoke, letting the noise of the wheels mask his conversation.

"Now since parties and such aren't your thing, what brings you some Joy, Ms. Victoria? Myself, a good morning ride or a midnight dip, long as I don't get my clothes snatched away and wind up naked as the day I was born," he heartily laughed, "Nothing more magical than swimming along, not a sound for miles and diving into a reflection of a hunter's moon. Like you're one with all of god's creation just for a moment."

 

[SandS13]

Benjamin was extremely amused but also pleased at the conversation between the two. He didn't like to see his niece in black. He had a true soft spot for her. His wife and the other ladies wanted to see her married off once more, Benjamin just wanted to see her smile more and some colour to her. The black made her appear paler than she was.

"A midnight dip?" Victoria blushed. "I have never um, participated in one. I like to read. I find plants fascinating. Many have healing properties. Horses...I have a fondness for them."

Benjamin scoffed. "What my dear niece isn't telling you is that she rides better than most men and has a way with horses that would make the most experienced stableman jealous. Something about her nature I think. What she is also not telling you is that her husband was killed by being thrown from a horse and she hasn't ridden since. A shame really."

Victoria grew pale and looked down at her hands.

"Sorry, dear." Benjamin looked a little guilty now. He hadn't realized she was trying to hide from the truth.

"Its alright uncle. You were only telling facts. My skills, you may have over exaggerated...." She smiled sweetly though it didn't seem to ring totally true.

The carriage moved down the winding rode out of the town before pulling down a long driveway. The land around them was lush and hilly. Cattle roamed in various fields and ranch hands could be seen out there with them. A large farmhouse stood at the top of a hill with barns at the bottom of a gentle slope.

"The smaller house is over there. To the left, just by that copse of trees." Benjamin pointed, hoping to distract the pair