Seduction

.   

   A Laramie Story 

By Barbara Taylor

Chapter 1

As the Cheyenne stage bumped and rattled its way over the dry rutted road towards Laramie, almost all of the passengers where counting down the hours to when they would be able get out and stretch their legs and feel life in their nether regions again. With the exception of the tall blonde young man who sat in the corner with his arm wrapped protectively around the attractive brunette sitting next to him. His mind was focused entirely on the woman wrapped protectively in his strong arms

Slim Sherman looked fondly down at the young woman snuggled up next to him. He still couldn’t believe she was here with him. She was pretty, intelligent and gentle, and yet appeared to have a practical streak that a woman would need to survive out west. Why a woman like this, who could have had her choice of men, had actually chosen him, Slim could not understand. It had worried him at first, but as the whirlwind romance had blossomed for both of them, he wanted and needed her so much; he stopped questioning his good luck and accepted it gratefully. She was here with him now, traveling to meet his ‘family’ and he couldn’t be more proud or happy.

  Aware of his eyes upon her, Rebecca turned and smiled up into the warm eyes that held nothing but love and admiration for her. It had been a long journey and she was tired, but it would soon all be worth the effort. Another few hours and she would reach her goal, the Sherman Ranch and Relay Station. 

Soon she would meet the people she had heard so much about, and she was determined to make this work. No matter what it took, she would win them over. After all, she had won Slim’s heart and mind, and she would use that same strength and sense of purpose to achieve her goals once she reached Slim’s home.  

Rebecca had known Slim was the man she had been looking for the moment he was pointed out to her across the hotel lobby, and from that moment on she had made it her goal to get to know him and win his heart. She was no shrinking violet and knew how to catch and keep a man’s attention when she needed to and she had used her good looks, charm and womanly wiles to get what she had wanted. In this instant she had wanted Slim Sherman and she had quickly achieved her goal.  

With an outward show of affection she reached up and pulled his arm closer around her shoulders and settled her head against his chest and shoulder, letting her eyes drift shut as she amused herself imagining just what his home would be like. 

Slim smiled down at her, his affection evident as he moved slightly to accommodate her small frame against him. ‘Boy, Jonesy and Andy are sure going to be surprised when I get back’ he thought to himself  ‘and as for Jess, he’s going to be green with envy. He won’t be joshing me about my inadequacies with the girls anymore. He just won’t believe a girl as pretty and wonderful as my Rebecca could fall for me. Heck, come to think of it, I don’t believe it myself.’   

Slim looked down again as if to reassure himself she was still there, then he lifted his head to stare out of the window letting his mind drift back to their first meeting and the wonderful weeks that followed. 

He had gone to Denver to try and close a deal with the army for a contract to supply them with fresh horses. If they could pull it off then it would secure the survival of the ranch for several years to come. That spring several of the army’s top buyers had visited the ranch to see the quality of the horses they had to sell. Slim only had a few horses at the time but the buyers had been impressed with their sturdiness and reliability. Nothing had been agreed on then, since the buyers still had a few more suppliers with horses to look over. The arrival of Jess Harper at the Sherman ranch at about that time had proven to be a turning point in the fortunes of the ranch. His skill breaking horses meant Slim had the potential to build his stock up should the army decide to offer him a contract. 

Slim had to admit that when Jess first drifted into his life, they had appeared to be as unalike as it was possible to be. Slim had enough trouble trying to make ends meet and look after his younger brother Andy, without having to worry about a two-bit drifter and gunslinger in his life. He had wanted nothing more than for Jess to get off his land and out of their lives and he had made that pretty clear from the onset. But fate had dealt the two men a very different hand and Jess had been working on the ranch for five months now. They had more than a few differences of opinion and yet somehow a friendship had been forged that was appearing to weather their differences and was growing stronger week by week. Slim had gradually put aside his reservations, won over by the glimpses of the soul of the man behind the gun. He would be the first to admit he still had a long way to go to really know Jess, as the man in question was difficult to read and slow to trust others. But as Jess had come to know Slim better he had allowed him to see glimpses of the hard past that had made the man Slim now knew, and the two men had found their friendship growing.  

In late summer, they had received a telegram asking for them to come to Denver to settle the deal. Apparently it was down to a close decision between the Sherman Ranch and another horse breeding ranch in Colorado. It would finally be settled by negotiation and the two opponents had been asked to come to Denver to finalize the contract.  

A working ranch is always busy, and particularly so in late summer. It would be impossible for both Slim and Jess to go. The decision as to who would stay and who would make the trip was not easy. Jess knew horses better than any man Slim had ever met. He didn’t doubt that if Jess went to negotiate the deal, he’d soon have the army buyers convinced of the superiority of the Sherman herd, but Slim was the more business like of the two. Slim had a head for figures and was the one who kept the ranch’s accounts in order. He was the one who would know how close to their profit margin they could afford to go in the negotiations.  

It had been strange really, as both men actually deferred to the other, willing to give up the chance of a break away from the ranch for the other’s sake. In the end it had been decided by lady fate and the toss of a coin. Slim had called tails and tails was face up when the dollar landed. Slim had even offered ‘best of three’ but Jess had laughed and slapped him on the back. 

“Lady luck’s picked you, Pard. Better not to go against her, she can be mighty fickle,” Jess had said. How right he had been. Lady Luck, Fate, whatever you cared to believe in, had sent him to Denver and into the arms of the woman he wanted to spend the rest of his life with. 

The trip by coach and train had taken three days, the negotiations had been finalized and the contract signed within four days of arriving in the city, but Slim had lingered on, not lying to his friends and family back home, but not quite telling them the full story either, mainly because he didn’t know himself what was happening or where he was heading. He had wired Laramie with the message that the contract was theirs but he was staying on to tie up a few loose ends, he would get home as soon as everything was settled. 

On his second night in Denver he had kept an appointment made by fate and met Rebecca. He was sitting in the hotel lobby, alternating between reading the Denver News and walking to the front doors waiting for the carriage that had been arranged to take him to the meeting with the army negotiators.  

Just a few minutes earlier he had observed, like every other red-blooded male in the room, a very attractive young woman enter the lobby. He hadn’t been able to stop himself from staring as the beautiful apparition glided across to the desk then turned to survey the room. Whatever or whoever she had been looking for must not have been there because she walked across the room and sat down on a settee.  

Slim’s eyes slid over her, taking in the rich chestnut color of her hair and the glow of her creamy skin. From this distance he couldn’t see her eyes but he imagined they would be beautiful just like the rest of her. He had briefly toyed with the idea of going over to her but she looked every inch a lady and it was not done to approach a woman alone in polite society. Since he hardly ever left the ranch these days, and he was new to Denver, it was unlikely that he could find a mutual acquaintance to introduce him to her. Heck, who was he kidding, even if he did get to speak to her, it was unlikely that a woman as fine as this one would give him a second glance. 

The sound of a horse and carriage stopping outside drew him back from his daydreaming and he stood and headed to the door. For whatever reason, Rebecca had also decided to leave at that precise time and their paths had collided, literally, inches from the door.  

As she staggered back, unsteady from the impact, Slim had grabbed her arm and steadied her. 

“Whoa, there. Steady now. Are you all right?” Hardly the most endearing of opening lines, but the best a startled Slim could come up with under the circumstances. 

She had blushed slightly, and kept her eyes cast politely downwards. “I--I’m so sorry. It’s my entirely my fault. I was in such a hurry to get to a carriage I didn’t see you there.”  

Noticing her bag on the floor, Slim reached down and picked it up. “You dropped this. Are you sure you are all right? It really was my fault, I wasn’t thinking. I just saw my carriage arrive and didn’t want to miss it.” 

She had looked up then. “Thank you, Mister--?” She left the question hanging in the air. 

She had brown eyes, large, warm brown eyes, better than he could have imagined. He could get lost in those eyes. He felt a hand touch his and realized she had been speaking to him. “I--I’m sorry. The name’s Sherman, Slim Sherman, and you are Miss--?” 

Her smile had lit up her face. “I’m Rebecca Stanton, Mister Sherman, and really, it was my fault. You see I have an appointment to keep. My friend was to meet me here but somehow we have missed each other. I was waiting for a carriage and when I saw this one arrive, I’m afraid I thought I could hire it.” 

“I’m afraid it’s a private hire, Miss Stanton,” Slim had replied, and then noticing the army sergeant pacing impatiently up and down in front of it, he reluctantly excused himself. “I’m sorry, but I ‘m going to have to go, otherwise I’ll be late.” Slim was well aware that first impressions counted and he wanted to convey a good impression to the army brass. 

He threw her one last regretful smile, wishing he could find a reason to stay and talk, and then headed through the door. Then the idea hit him and he headed straight back in again. She was standing where he had left her and smiled when he returned. 

“Back so soon, Mister Sherman?” she had joked. 

For Slim, his next actions were entirely out of character, but he really was attracted to her, and he’d be kicking himself if he didn’t take this chance. “Look Miss Stanton, maybe we can share the carriage. That’s if you don’t mind traveling with me. Which way are you going?” 

That had been the start of it all. It had turned out she was going to another hotel near the army headquarters so no one had been inconvenienced by the arrangement.  

During that fateful journey in the carriage their chance meeting had developed into a budding relationship and before she had left him they were on a first name basis and had arranged to meet for dinner the next day.  

That dinner date sealed Slim’s fate. He had picked her up at her hotel in a hired buggy and had found himself almost speechless at the vision of loveliness that greeted him. Every fiber of his being had radiated his pride as he observed the admiring glances his companion drew, and the best thing about it all was that she only had eyes for him the whole evening. He was the focus of her entire attention as she hung on every word he said.  

Rebecca had been genuinely interested in all the details of life at the ranch and of his family there. From the start she had made him feel at ease by dispensing with all formality and insisting he called her by her first name. Later that night at the after dinner dance, Rebecca had turned down all of the many requests to dance she received from various men, only taking to the floor when Slim asked her to partner him. She had danced to perfection, gliding around the floor with poise and control like the real lady she was.  

Every spare moment had been spent in her company after that, with Slim even finding excuses for delaying his return to Laramie. When he could no longer put of his return home, she had been distraught at the thought of him going. Slim had decided to ask her to consider traveling back with him, but had known it would be improper and she would have to refuse for the sake of convention. 

Unable to put off returning home any longer, Slim had planned a last romantic evening with the young woman that had stolen his heart. As the evening had drawn to a close, he had been totally taken by surprise when Rebecca had taken the issue totally out of his hands by suggesting she travel back to Laramie with him.   

“Please don’t think I am being forward or improper in anyway, but I feel I can’t just let you walk out of my life without telling you how I feel. Slim, I really like you. No, that isn’t right, to be honest with you, let propriety be blowed, I’m falling in love with you. If I am not mistaken, you feel the same way.” 

At this point Slim had taken her small hands in his, and looked deeply into her soft eyes. “No, I don’t think you are being improper. Life is too short to waste the chance we have been given. I know how I feel about you. I’ve felt this way since we first met. Look, I would love you to come back to Laramie with me, but--” 

“Wait a second, Slim. Hear me out,” Rebecca had interrupted him. “Although I am not rich, my father left me with an independent means of support from a small estate. I am free to go where I please, and it would please me to travel to Laramie with you. After that--? Well, lets wait and see. You don’t have to make any big commitments right now.” 

Slim hesitated, totally taken aback by the fact that Rebecca so obviously felt as strongly as he did. When he finally recovered his voice, he made one of the biggest commitments he had ever made in his life. “Rebecca, I want you to come to Laramie with me. I want you to come home with me to the ranch were I can present you as my future wife.” 

“Slim Sherman, are you asking me to marry you?” Rebecca had asked, her eyes dancing. 

“I guess that I am,” Slim said quietly, then he spoke up again, his voice filled with commitment, “Rebecca, will you do me the honor of marrying me?” 

Slim’s smile spread from ear to ear as the beautiful woman in front of him simply said, “Yes.” 

After his heart had stopped racing and he realized this wonderful creature obviously felt as strongly about him as he did about her, Slim had set about booking the train and stage tickets for her to accompany him. Rebecca had packed a few things, saying she would have the rest sent on and her financial arrangements changed to the Laramie bank. She wired some friends and colleagues to say where she could be contacted from now on; all the while congratulating herself on how easy it had been to achieve her goal. 

Slim had wired Laramie that he would be home soon, but he decided not to say he was bringing the future Mrs. Sherman with him. He wanted to see everyone’s faces as he introduced the beautiful woman he would escort off the stage as his fiancé. 

The very next day the two lovers had got on the train on the first leg of their journey to Cheyenne. From there they backtracked by taking the stage to Laramie, the final leg of a journey that would bring them to an appointment with fate that Slim could not have anticipated.

Chapter 2

The stage threw up clouds of dust as it sped down the road towards the relay station. The driver didn’t appear to see the dark haired young man that stood directly in its path, his right arm outstretched. At the very last possible second the smiling man stepped to one side and the coach driver pulled back on the reigns and slammed on the brakes. The stage came to a stop a mere foot away from the daring challenger. 

Blue eyes dancing with laughter, the good-looking young ranch hand took hold of the lead horse’s rein. “You missed by a mile, Mose. You’re loosing your touch,” he commented. 

“One of these days, Jess, you ain’t gonna move outta my way quick enough, and I ain’t planning on being the one explaining to Slim why his ranch hand ain’t able to help with the chores around here.” Mose started to climb down from the seat. 

An older man had appeared on the porch and shouted across. “You got that right, Mose. Sometimes I swear that boy ain’t got the sense he was born with. If Slim was here, Jess he’d be givin’ you an earful, the number of times he’s told you not to pull that trick.” 

“Well. Old Slim ain’t here, Jonesy, and I’m too fast on my feet to be caught by a slow poke like Mose here.” Jess laughed as he started to unhitch the horses. “Is Andy coming to help me change this team, or is he too busy with those critters of his.” 

Jonesy ignored Jess’ jibe and moved to open the stagecoach door. As he reached for it, the door swung open and a tall blonde man stepped down, his face split by a wide smile. Before Jonesy could speak, Slim shook his head and raised a finger to his lips indicating he should be quiet.  

“Mose, how about you giving me a hand here?” Jess, raspy voice demanded. He was hot and tired, and despite what the others intimated, he had been working hard to keep everything running smoothly while his boss had been away. 

“I’ve been keeping that skittish team under control all morning, Jess. Don’t rightly think I can. Anyways I thought Slim was due back a few days ago.” Mose tried to keep the amusement from his voice. 

“Yeah, so did I. Seems that he had a bit more business to complete. If you ask me he’s got a taste for good living in the big city. Well, I’ve about had it. When he comes back, I’m taking a few days off and taking Andy fishing. We’ll see if he likes doing all the chores on his own.” 

Jess had his back to the group as he bent forward trying to work the chains loose on the traces. He practically fell forward as the next person to speak stood right behind him. 

“Well, is that so, Jess Harper. I think your boss may have something to say about that.” Slims rich voice reached Jess’ ears. 

Recovering his balance, Jess spun on his heels to face the speaker. “Slim! How did you get here?” His mouth spread in a wide grin of happiness to see his friend. If the

truth were known, Jess had been missing his friend, and despite the telegram that Slim had sent, the ex-gunslinger had begun to worry about Slim,s safe return. 

“Now how’d you think I got here?” Slim gestured at the stagecoach. “I just appeared in a puff of smoke, huh.” He reached forward and gave Jess’ shoulder a playful punch.  “I gather you missed me.” 

Before Jess could reply a young boy’s voice split the air. “ Slim! You’re home.” Then another figure ran across the yard and leaped at his older brother. 

Slim stepped away from Jess and grasped Andy’s shoulders. “And I missed you to, little brother.”  

During this whole performance, Rebecca had remained hidden in the dark interior of the coach. As Slim finally released his brother and grabbed Jonesy’s extended hand in firm handshake, she gave a slight cough. Instantly Slim’s attention was drawn to the coach. He moved to open the door, and as Rebecca stepped down he supported her arm to steady her. 

“Sorry, Miss,” Jonesy apologized, “We didn’t realize there was another passenger. I guess we were a little distracted by the prodigal’s return.” 

“That is quiet all right, I do understand,” Rebecca gifted them with her best smile.  

As she stepped down, Jess came forward, “There is fresh coffee in the house, Miss. Allow me to show you the way. You can rest up while the horses get changed.” He offered his arm to her, and she took it graciously, the wink she gave Slim going unnoticed by everyone else. 

Slim placed his hands on his hips and tried to look stern. “And just who is going to change the team?” he asked, trying hard to suppress the happiness in his voice. As he looked around at the familiar sights he realized just how much he had missed his home. 

As he walked away, Rebecca firmly attached to his arm, Jess flung back over his shoulder “It’s time you did some of the work and we got to rest, Pard. I’m busy escorting our guest. Take your time with the horses, there ain’t any hurry.” He returned his attention to the attractive young woman on his arm. “ It may be awhile, Miss---” 

“Rebecca,” she supplied easily, and assured that Slim could not see, she turned her most seductive smile on her handsome young escort. She had known that in order to achieve her goals, one way or another, she would have to win the hearts of all the people that lived at the relay station. As she stared admiringly at Jess, taking in the black wavy hair and dark long lashes veiling startlingly blue eyes, she had to admit she hadn’t expected the job to be quiet so pleasurable as it now promised to be. 

“Rebecca,” Jess repeated, thinking how the pretty name suited her. Once inside the house, he gallantly pulled a chair out for her, and guided her to it. In seconds he had produced two cups of coffee and had joined her at the table. Jess was never usually at ease with what he termed decent women, becoming embarrassed and uncomfortable around them. But somehow, despite the fact that Rebecca obviously fell into that very category, he had overcome his normal shyness. Perhaps it was because he knew she would be leaving once the stage was ready, or perhaps it was the way she was looking at him, open, warm and so inviting.  

He was quiet as he sipped his black brew, uncertain just what he should say next. However it was Rebecca that broke the quiet. “You must be Jess,” she said. 

Totally taken aback, Jess stammered, “H--How did y--you---?” 

“It was easy,” she replied, her gentle laughter inviting. “Your friend Slim thinks a lot of you. He told me quite a few stories about what you and he have been up to.” 

For a moment Jess felt his cheeks color as he wondered just what his friend had said. Of course, it was only natural, as the only two passengers on the stage from Cheyenne that the two of them would talk, but even so--. 

She came to his rescue, almost as if she had read his thoughts. “Oh, don’t worry, everything he said was good.” She reached forward and rested her hand on top of Jess’ on the table. He felt the heat of her touch as it spread through him. It was such a pity that she was only passing through. There was just something about her that made him feel at ease, and the way she looked at him was offering him so much more than conversation. He knew he shouldn’t be entertaining such thoughts about a lady who was so obviously out of his class, but every move she made, every look she threw at him, said she was interested and wanted him.  

He finally found his voice, though it sounded deep and husky with desire to his own ears. “Are you heading to Laramie or just passing through?” He coughed, and when he spoke again, his voice was more normal. 

He knew this woman was attempting to seduce him. After all he was no stranger to the wiles of the saloon girls. It was the fact that this was a lady of obvious breeding and they had only just met that had him squirming. His body was responding but somewhere in the back of his mind alarm bells were sounding. 

Outside Slim had just shrugged good-naturedly as he watched Jess walk into the house with his fiancé on his arm. He would let Jess try his best to make ground with Rebecca, and when he went into the house, if she hadn’t told him who she was, then he, Slim, would. It would be a pure delight to see Jess’ face change and redden with embarrassment when he realized he’d been trying to make a move on his future wife. If it had been anyone but Jess, Slim might have been worried or even jealous, but he knew Jess and trusted him completely. 

“Well, lets get this done, Andy. Then maybe I can get some coffee too?”  

“You ain’t gonna let Jess get away with that are you?” Jonesy asked.

“Just this once, Jonesy. I’ll make sure he gets pay back for it later.” Slim continued to smile as he helped Mose and Andy change teams under the watchful gaze of Jonesy. 

For a minute Jonesy considered just what Slim was up to, but in the end he had to ask. “What have you got planned then? It must be good, ‘cause you look like the cat that got the cream.” 

“Oh, it will be Jonesy, but you will have to wait and find out.” Slim finished hooking up the last horse. 

“I’ll go tell the lady the stage is ready to roll,” Andy offered. 

“No need, Andy. This is as far as she is traveling for now.” 

“What? Is she staying here?” he asked. 

“Yes, she will be, at least for a little while. And her name is Rebecca, by the way.” Slim waved to the laughing Mose as the stage pulled away on the last part of its journey to Laramie. 

Jonesy caught on quickly. “You seem on first name terms for someone you just met on the stage,” he hinted. 

“We met in Denver, Jonesy, almost the first day I was there, and she is here at my invitation.”  Slim’s obvious pleasure could be seen written all over his face. 

“All right, Slim, spit it out,” Jonesy was loosing patience. 

Although Slim had intended to make a grand announcement when they were all together, it was obvious from the look on Jonesy’s face and the way Andy was impatiently bouncing up and down, that he would get no peace until he told them everything. 

“Rebecca and I are engaged to be married,” he stated quietly. 

“WHAT!!” Jonesy and Andy exclaimed together. 

“Hush,” Slim commanded. “I want to see Jess’ face when I tell him” 

“Never mind how Jess will take it. What about us?” Jonesy said, somewhat more reasonably. 

“But, Slim, you didn’t say in your telegram that you where bringing someone b---” Andy was totally thrown by his older brother’s news. 

Before he had even finished the ecstatically happy Slim had interrupted him. “It happened too quickly and anyway, I wanted to see your faces when you met her. Isn’t she just perfect? I mean have you ever met a girl as pretty as she is, and she is a real lady, kind, polite and gentile. Someone you would be proud to have on your arm.” 

“Yes, she is really pretty but--” Andy tried again. 

“She is great to talk to as well and has a wonderful sense of humor.” Slim rambled on, oblivious to the confused and worried faces around him. 

Shaking his head, recognizing they would get no sense from the love smitten man at the moment, Jonesy spoke up. “Save all the questions till later Andy. Right now I think we had better let Slim introduce us to this paragon of womanhood.” 

In a world full of pink fluffy clouds and rose tints, Slim failed to notice the edge of sarcasm in Jonesy’s words. 

“Yes, but don’t let on to Jess. I want to be the one that tells him the news.” Slim strode off ahead and failed to notice Andy as he grabbed Jonesy’s arm and held him back. “What’s wrong with Slim, Jonesy? He isn’t acting like himself.” 

“I know, Andy. A woman can do that to a man sometimes. They do say ‘marry in haste and repent at your leisure’. She seems to make him happy though, so let’s go meet her and make up our own minds.” Then Jonesy gently shoved the bemused young boy ahead of him, to follow the rapidly retreating back of Slim as he disappeared into the house. 

Jess had sat with his back to the door, all his attention focused on the vision of loveliness in front of him. She had fluttered her long eyelashes at him, and allowed herself to blush prettily when he had asked about her intended destination. Then, when she was sure he was totally enthralled, she had smiled shyly and answered Jess’ question with one of her own. “Why, would you like me to stay?” 

Now it was Jess’ turn to blush, caught off guard by her forwardness. “N--No--, er yes, that is --. What I meant to say was, if you are going to stay in Laramie for a while, perhaps we could get together. That is, if you’d like too--?” he finished ineptly. 

Rebecca had been leaning forward towards him, giving the impression that he was the center of her attention and very important to her. She also knew that in this position her low cut dress gave a tempting view of her more than adequate feminine attractions. As good an actress as she was, she had difficulty not allowing herself a smile at how Jess was squirming in his seat, trying to avoid looking directly at her, and failing miserably. Every so often those blue eyes of his would drift south and then just as quickly he looked away and his cheeks colored further. ‘Oh, this job was going to prove delightful’ Rebecca thought. ‘What a pity this one was going to be an expendable pawn in the game she was playing.’ 

“I don’t think there would be any problem in us seeing each other again, in fact I would really look forward to it,” she replied truthfully, reaching still further forward to squeeze Jess hand gently. She raised her other hand and lightly brushed her fingers across Jess’ stubble roughened cheek.  

He felt the heat of her hand on his face even after she withdrew it. Over Jess’ shoulder Rebecca caught sight of Slim as his body cut off the sunlight from the doorway. Hastily she pulled back to sit more demurely, the perfect picture of a respectable lady. The withdrawal of her intimate closeness left Jess feeling strangely bereft and wondering what he had done wrong.  

Then he heard Slim’s deep voice behind him, and picked up on the laughter in his voice. “So, has Jess here been keeping you entertained, Rebecca?” 

Jess’ eyebrows raised in surprise. “You two know each other, I mean, other than enjoying the same stage trip for the past day?” 

“Oh, I’d say we know each other pretty well, don’t we Rebecca?” Slim moved around to stand behind the prettily smiling young woman. He rested a hand on her shoulder possessively, a move that did not go unnoticed by a puzzled Jess. 

Andy and Jonesy had now joined them in the living room, and Jonesy poured a coffee for himself and Slim. “Here,” he said, “You might want to wash the trail dust away before you say anything more.” Then noticing that Jess’ cup was empty, he refilled it with the last of the strong brew. 

“I’m okay, Jonesy. I just finished.” Jess said, sensing an air of expectation in the atmosphere but not understanding why. Maybe it was just the lingering after effects of Rebecca’s overtures that had left him feeling edgy. 

“Trust me, you’re gonna need it,” Jonesy replied as he pulled out a chair and sat down. Andy came in close to Jess, standing so close to him he was leaning against him. Slim’s news had made him feel uneasy and he sought the security of Jess’ presence. Instinctively Jess snaked an arm around the boy’s waist, supplying the comfort he was so obviously seeking.  

There was definitely something wrong now, and Jess couldn’t ignore it any longer. “All right, what’s’ going on? Spit it out, Slim.” 

Slim’s smile spread so much it looked like it would split his face in two. He placed both hands on Rebecca’s shoulders and squeezed them encouragingly. “Jess, Jonesy, Andy, I would like you to meet Rebecca Stainton, My fiancée.” 

“You’re what?” the shock was evident in Jess’ voice. He looked across at the prim and proper young lady that smiled sweetly at him, and couldn’t match her to the seductress that had been flirting with him just seconds before. 

Slim misread the revulsion in Jess’ voice for surprise. “You heard me, Pard. Rebecca has agreed to be my wife.”  Before anything more could be said, Slim continued. “Rebecca, may I present my family to you. Jonesy is a long time friend of my father,Andy and me. He helps keep us all in line and keeps us fed, after a fashion.” 

“What do you mean, after a fashion? I ain’t heard you complain about my pie.” Jonesy tried to sound relaxed, but he had noticed Jess’ reaction for more than just surprise at Slim’s announcement. Now he was all too aware that Jess was uncharacteristically quiet, making no effort to rib Slim. In fact Jess’ eyes were steadfastly refusing to meet Slim’s. He silently resolved to ask him what was wrong later. 

Slim, blissfully unaware of his best friend’s discomfort, continued with his introductions. “The little fella trying to disappear behind Jess is Andy, my younger brother. Come on, Andy, say hello to your future sister–in-law.” Andy stepped away from Jess’ side long enough to shake Rebecca’s hand, then he immediately moved back to stand by Jess. Even Andy, as young as he was, could sense the unease in his friend, and knew that this newcomer was somehow the cause of it. 

“Finally, that dumbstruck idiot who can’t stop gawking is my Pard, Jess Harper. I couldn’t ask for a better friend than Jess, Rebecca, so I hope you two will get along.” 

Rebecca looked to each in turn, nodding hello, but when her eyes settled on Jess, she lowered her gaze, and looked alluringly up at him through veiled eyes. “I am sure we will get along just fine, won’t we, Jess?” she practically purred. 

Unable to get past the tightening in his throat, very aware that this temptress was still flirting with him and Slim just didn’t see it, Jess struggled and failed to find the words to respond. 

“What’s the matter, Pard? Cat got your tongue.” Slim prompted, enjoying what he saw as his friend being surprised, pleased and even a little jealous at his good fortune that he couldn’t think what to say.  

Jess picked up his coffee cup and swallowed the strong brew in one gulp, hoping it would ease his strangely tight throat and gain him time to find the right words to say.

His cup drained, he had no choice but to make a reply. “We have hardly met yet, Slim. Give me some time. This is kind of sudden, takes a mite of getting used to.” 

“Well, get used to it quick, Pard, cause it’s for real. Rebecca is going to stay here a few days, while her money transfers through to the bank. Then she’ll find a nice room in town while we sort things out and make our plans.” 

‘Plans for what?’ went through the minds of the three surprised people in the room but no one voiced it. Not waiting for a response Slim turned to Jess and continued. “You don’t mind movin’ into Andy’s and my room for a few days, do you Jess?” 

Jess was still struggling to come to terms with what Slim had said. Surely Slim couldn’t be considering settling down with a woman such as this, and yet, as he looked across at the demure, smiling Rebecca he could see no trace of the temptress that had virtually propositioned him mere minutes ago.  Maybe it was him. He was hot and tired and hadn’t gotten to town for a while, so he was missing female company. Maybe he had imagined the way she looked at him, and read much more into what could have been innocent comments. 

Slim reached over and playfully flicked the heavy lock of hair that had drifted down over Jess’ eyes. “Hey, Pard, you listening to me? I asked if you minded bunking in with us and letting Rebecca have your room for awhile.” 

Jess pulled himself together and gave the only reply he could without hurting Slim. “Sure, Slim. If that’s what you want. I’ll move my things right now. Excuse me, Miss” Before anyone could object, Jess had stood and moved away, retreating to the safety of his room. He needed time to think and regain his equilibrium. 

Behind him, Slim shrugged. “Seems I’ve surprised Jess more than I thought. He’s so shocked he ain’t thinking straight. Guess I’ll talk to him later.” He turned to a smiling Rebecca. “You stay here and talk to Jonesy and Andy, I’ll get your bags.” Slim squeezed her shoulder gently again then went out to fetch the small traveling bag and trunk that Rebbeca had brought with her. She had told Slim she had arranged for the rest of her things to follow later, rather than delay returning with him she had packed all her worldly possessions. 

Both Andy and Jonesy attempted to make polite conversation, but Andy’s gaze frequently wandered to the closed door behind which he could hear Jess moving around. Something was wrong, he could sense it. Jess was often shy around the decent ladies in town but he was always polite. What was even more worrying was that Jonesy was also unsettled by Jess’ odd behavior, and Andy could see it in the way Jonesy was reluctant to engage in anything more than superficial conversation with the apparently charming young woman.  

It hadn’t taken long for Jess to gather up his few possessions and he realized he couldn’t hide his turmoil behind the closed door much longer without it looking suspicious. He took a deep breath and let it out slowly, letting his tension flow away with the air. As he emerged from the room he met Slim about to enter with his fiancé’s traveling bags. He couldn’t fail to notice the happiness radiating from his best friend’s face and resolved there and then to forget his early encounter with the attractive woman. He would do his best to make friends with her for Slim’s sake. 

“The bottom drawer is empty in the chest of draws by the window, Jess. Put your things in there. It will only be for a few days. Thanks for being so obliging, Pard.” Slim spoke as he stepped past Jess. 

Jess swallowed hard and took the plunge, determined to try and welcome Slim’s intended to the ranch. “Sure, Slim” he hoped his voice didn’t convey the stress he was feeling. “Look, why don’t you help Rebecca move her things in while I finish up the chores with Andy.” 

“I’ve got a better suggestion. You’ve been doing all the work while I’ve been away. Lets leave the chores for the day. Andy, you and Jonesy can finish up the smaller jobs in the barn, can’t you? Jess and me have some catching up to do.” 

“That’s fine with me, Slim, dear. I don’t want a man under my feet while I’m unpacking.” She flashed a winning smile at Slim and turned to the rest of the occupants in the room. “I don’t want to be a trouble to anyone. You boys just carry on and I’ll join you all later.” Then she moved to enter the bedroom, brushing between Slim and Jess, facing towards the darker haired man. In the small space of the doorway, Jess was unable to step back and he found her body pressed tightly against his.  

The sweet smell of her perfume assailed him, and he felt the warmth of her body against his. His own body tensed in reaction to her presence and he felt the heat rise to his cheeks. Worst still was the sultry look she gave him as she passed. A look hidden from the others but carrying a very obvious message aimed at him. 

Jess turned away quickly, telling himself it was an accident and he was letting his own desires read more into her actions. He coughed to cover the tightness that again claimed his throat. “ I’ll just put these away then I’ll meet you outside, Slim. I need you to look over the new stock I bought.” 

“You’re a better judge of horse flesh than I’ll ever be, Jess. I’ll trust your judgment on that.” Slim replied easily, wanting more to regale Jess with his adventures in Denver than to get down to the business of running a ranch again. 

“Thanks, Slim, but just the same, I’d feel easier if you looked them over.” In truth, Jess was nervous and felt he couldn’t trust himself too close to Rebecca at the moment. He didn’t mind jawing with Slim one little bit, but he wanted to be out in the fresh air and as far away from her distracting presence as possible.  

A few short minutes later saw Andy in the barn tidying up the tack, Jonesy finishing the preparations for a celebratory evening meal, and Rebecca unpacking her bags.  

Chapter 3  

Over at the coral, Slim was admiring the breeding stock Jess had purchased. “They look real fine, Jess. I told you I’d trust your judgment any day.” 

Jess dark head dipped in acceptance of the compliment, and then he asked the question he knew Slim was waiting on. “So how did you meet someone as special as Rebecca?” he picked his words carefully. 

“She sure is special, isn’t she?” Slim beamed.  

“Yeah, a real good looker,” again Jess kept his reply carefully neutral. “Beats me why someone like her got hooked up with a dusty ole cow puncher like you.” Jess made the expected tease, and waited for the response. 

“Well, don’t you be getting any ideas.” Slim rose to the bait easily, but Jess turned away to hide the unease he thought must be easily read in his eyes. Slim’s remark, though said jokingly, was too close to the truth of what had transpired earlier. Slim, now lost in his story, was blissfully unaware of Jess’ discomfort, and continued on, regaling Jess with all the details of his whirlwind romance with his wonderful Rebecca.  

Although he kept his gaze neutral and remained staring fixedly at the horses in the corral, Jess’ mind was awash with questions he couldn’t ask. The whole meeting and subsequent romance rang false with the astute man, and yet Slim didn’t think it amiss in any way. In fact he talked as if he believed it was destiny and meant to happen from the start. Jess could hear the happiness in Slim’s deep voice as he rushed on with his tale, and finally he risked a sideways look at his best friend. Slim was also staring ahead, but his eyes where focused elsewhere, reliving his whirlwind romance. Jess saw the happiness Slim felt reflected in his eyes, and decided there and then that he would make every effort to welcome Rebecca, for Slim’s sake.  

As Slim drew his story to a close, Jess gave him a friendly slap on the shoulder. “ I reckon you’ve struck gold, Slim. I’m real happy for you.” 

“Thanks, Jess, it’s important to me that you approve of my choice. I want us to be one big happy family. Rebecca’s presence here won’t change things, except for the better.” 

“Sure, Slim.” Jess hoped he sounded convincing. “Now lets get the chores finished up and get ready for that special meal Jonesy’s promised us.”  

Over the next few days, Rebecca worked her magic on the occupants of the Sherman household. In turn they all fell under her spell as she deliberately spent time with each one, making them feel they where special to her. This was her skill, her talent, and she had put it to good use on many occasions when she worked scams alongside her brothers. When the law had finally caught up with them, she had managed to convince the sheriff that she was an innocent pawn and had been released. Her brothers had not been as fortunate. Since then she had lived off her skills and the small amount of money she had wisely saved from their exploits. Off course, all of this she kept carefully hidden from them all, especially Slim. Rebecca knew he would find out soon enough, but by then it would be too late, much too late. 

She flattered Jonesy on his cooking and totally won his admiration when she asked him to teach her his recipe for Mulligan stew. Jess, and even Slim had stared open mouthed at her as she had insisted he teach her exactly how to do it. 

“It’s absolutely delicious, Jonesy. You simply must teach me how to do it,” She purred. 

Jonesy beamed at the two gawking men. “You see, this here is a Lady of quality and she knows fine food when she gets it.” 

“Yeah, Jonesy, but this ain’t it,” quipped Jess. 

“Well, you don’t have to eat it, you know. I suppose I’d better not serve any apple pie to you two ignoramuses either,” Jonesy responded testily, snatching the two plates of pie away from in front of the two men.  

With equally fast reflexes, Slim and Jess snatched their plates back. “Hey, we didn’t say anything against your pie, Jonsey,” soothed Slim. 

Andy had watched the joshing with a big smile, now he joined in. “They sure didn’t, Jonesy, and they’ve both been working hard today. You couldn’t deprive a man of his pie, just cause they haven’t got Rebecca’s refined palate.” 

Now it was Jonesy’s turn to stare at the young boy. “Her what? Who’s been teaching you such fine and dandy talking”? 

“It means she has good taste---” Andy tried to explain before he was interrupted. 

“I know what it means, son. I just didn’t expect you to be using such high words all of a sudden, let alone understanding them.” Jonesy said as he sat down at the table with the others. 

“Rebecca’s been teaching me. She says it will help me to speak properly if I go to school back east next year.” 

Jess reached over and tousled the young boys hair. “It sure will, Tiger. Maybe I should get me some of her lessons in fine speaking. It might go along way to impress the girls at the next social in town. What do you think Slim?” 

“I think it would take a lot more than a few fine words to make you into a gentleman, Pard.” 

Before Jess could come back with a suitable retort, Rebecca stepped in. “ Now, Slim, I’m sure Jess doesn’t have any problems getting all the best looking women to dance with him with those dark good looks of his.” 

Jess felt his cheeks burning as her eyes raked over him, her look a brazen invitation . None of the others seemed to notice. 

Slim laughed. “Hey, if I were still available, they wouldn’t be giving him a second glance. But then again, I have the best looking gal in these parts already roped and tied.” 

Rebecca turned her cooling gaze on him, a false smile on her pretty features. “Now, Slim, I’m not sure I like you talking about me like that.” 

“ Sorry,” Slim said contritely, but his immediate laughter showed he wasn’t in the least bit genuine. 

Jess however was still feeling the heat of Rebecca’s gaze, and pushed his half eaten pie away as he stood up. “I’ll go brush down the horses and shut up the barn for the night, Slim.” Slim stood to help, but Jess gently pushed him back down. “ No, Slim, you stay here with your fiancé. I reckon I can handle this alone.” 

Once outside, Jess headed for the barn with a purposeful stride. He would often find solace with the horses when he was upset or confused. At least with the horses you got honest reactions, and didn’t have to try and read between the lines. Right now Jess was off balance again. He had thought he had put his fears about Rebecca firmly to rest, and yet that look had left no room for doubt, and he was once again plunged into confusion. He set to brushing down the horses, each smooth stroke gradually soothing his rattled nerves. ‘Well, no matter what the woman intends, whether I am misreading her or not, I’m not gonna give in, so it don’t really matter. Sooner or later, if there is anything amiss, Slim is gonna notice,” he thought to himself, as his rattled nerves gradually settled.  

When he eventually returned to the house, everyone was asleep, or so he thought, as he quietly climbed into his bed. Across the room Jonesy watched as Jess tossed and turned, trying to settle. He had been enjoying the banter at supper, but unlike the others he had seen the look Rebecca had given Jess, and he had seen Jess’ reaction to it. It was not the first time he had observed her flirtatious behavior either, but he had kept his own council. It would be foolish to say anything for the moment. She may just be trying to be friendly with Jess, trying to make the man feel at ease. Jonesy didn’t think that was the case, but Slim was so totally absorbed in the woman, he wasn’t going to hurt him by acting rashly. Besides, Jess seemed to be handling it for now, so Jonesy was content to watch and wait. 

For the following two days, Rebecca contented herself with winning over the oldest and youngest of the unique family and left Jess alone. She realized that perhaps she had tried to push the wary man too far, too fast and didn’t want to ruin her perfect plan by trying to be too hasty.  

Whenever she met Jess and spoke to him she was polite and friendly, but nothing more. Jonesy began to relax, but Jess still seemed on edge whenever she was around. Even Andy had noticed and questioned Slim about it.  

“Slim, Rebecca’s been really nice to us all, but Jess doesn’t seem to talk much when she’s around. He does like her, doesn’t he?” 

Infatuated and in love, Slim could see nothing to cause concern. “Off course he does Andy. Why, he even told me so himself. You know Jess, he can get a little shy around the ladies at times.” 

Andy did know Jess, and although he could agree with his older brother on Jess’ shyness, he just didn’t think this was the case this time. He also recognized that he wasn’t going to get a better answer from Slim for now. He decided he’d ask Jonesy later. 

His opportunity came after supper the same day when he was left to help Jonesy in the kitchen. Slim had taken Rebecca for an evening stroll, taking the chance of some time alone with his intended to plan the start of her future in Laramie. Jess had gone, as was his habit lately, to spend some time with the horses, settling them for the night. 

Andy decided there was no easy way to ask his question, so he came straight out with it. “Jonesy, do you think Jess really likes Rebecca?” 

The question took Jonesy by surprise. He had been watching the interplay between the two, but for the last few days he had observed nothing amiss. Apparently Andy had been noticing something was wrong too. Rebecca was friendly and polite around Jess, showing nothing of her covert behavior Jonesy had observed previously. As for Jess, he treated her politely whenever they met but remained distant. ‘And that’ Jonesy thought, ‘was the real problem’. Jess seemed to be avoiding Rebecca as much as possible, and when he couldn’t do so without making it obvious, Jonesy could sense Jess’ discomfort. All Jonesy could do was watch and wait and hope whatever the problem was, it would settle down and be forgotten in the passage of time. 

“I’m sure he doesn’t dislike her,” he answered carefully. 

“That isn’t what I meant, and you know it. I’m not a child any more, Jonesy. I understand more than you think, and Jess has been avoiding her. I just don’t understand why.” Andy waited for a response as the older man carefully considered his next words. 

“Jess needs time to get used to having her around the place. She is a very attractive young woman and I think maybe he isn’t sure just how to react to her. Give it time, Andy.”  

“Well apparently lame answers seems to be the standard with the adults around here,” Andy snapped and then he was gone, heading to the barn to join Jess, before Jonesy could say another word.

Chapter Four 

It was the very next morning that Slim asked Jess to take Rebecca into town on the buckboard. 

“Jess, I’ve got to stay here and go over the accounts with the stage line inspector and I need Jonesy here to cook up a meal for the old buzzard. You know how Mister Morgan is. He goes over those books with a fine tooth comb and he keeps eating and downing the coffee the whole time.” 

“Yeah, sure, Slim, but can’t it wait till you can take her,” Jess was frantically searching for a plausible excuse not to spend time alone with the woman. “The fence needs checking over in the north pasture.” 

“That can wait a day. We need supplies, Jess, and Rebecca has to go into town to settle her affairs at the bank and sign the agreement on the house she is going to rent until we get sorted. Seems to me you could drive her in and pick up the supplies at the same time.” 

There was just no way to argue Slim out of it without seeming surly, so reluctantly Jess gave in. “All right, but there’s lots to do around here, so’s you’d best be telling her to hurry it up.” Even as he said it, Jess knew how petty he sounded. He immediately tried to back peddle. “You know how women can be, Slim, once they get to talking and shopping.” 

“Yeah, Jess, I know. But why not think on it as a day off. Drop in on the saloon while you wait and unwind a little. Seems to me you’ve been working real hard lately. We ain’t hardly seen you around the place. Have a drink and relax while you wait” Slim went to turn away, then spun back, a broad smile on his face. “Just one mind you, I don’t want you giving Rebecca a bad impression.”  

He watched as Jess gave a weak smile in return then headed to the barn to get the buckboard ready. Slim stared at him. He could have sworn he had seen a scowl on Jess’ face as he had turned back. He knew that the others thought he hadn’t noticed the way Jess seemed to avoid spending time with Rebecca, but he could sense that something wasn’t quite right. He shrugged as he entered the house. Whatever it was that was bothering his best friend would work itself out eventually. Most likely Jess just needed time to get used to the idea of Slim getting married. Well, they weren’t rushing things, so there was plenty of time. 

“Slim, dearest, is Jess going to take me into town?” Rebecca’s voice called to him from the bedroom as she recognized his step entering the house. 

“Yeah, he’s just getting the buckboard ready. It sure was a good idea of yours to get Jess to take you. You are right; he does need time to unwind. He argued against it just like you said he would, but thanks to you I was ready for all his excuses.” Slim reached for her as she stepped towards him, and wrapped his long arms around her, drawing her close. “I don’t know how I got to be so lucky. Not only do I have the best friend a man could ask for, and the most wonderful woman in the world agrees to be my wife, but also the two of them get along so well to.” 

Rebecca stood on her toes and kissed Slim briefly before pulling away.  

“Hey, what’s your hurry.” he teased.  

“Now, Slim. The sooner I go the sooner I come back. Anyway, we don’t want to give Jess a chance to find an excuse not to take me.” She pulled away from the blonde and headed outside, Slim following on her heals.  

Jess was waiting outside, sitting on the buckboard. He tried to smile but he felt anything but happy. 

“That was quick,” Slim commented. “Don’t think I can recall you ever moving that fast in a long time. You got a girl in town you’re planning to visit?” 

Jess’ eyes flicked briefly sideways at the smiling woman standing at Slim’s side.

“Maybe. There are a lot of pretty girls working at the saloon at the moment I hear.” His voice sounded harsher than he intended, but he hoped the remark would hit home to the seductress who now reached up towards him in anticipation of his help to climb onto the seat. With Slim watching he had no choice but to grasp her hand as Slim placed his hands around her waist and hoisted her up from behind.  

He turned away from her the moment she was safely up, embarrassed and aroused by the view her plunging neckline offered from his angle. Her hot gaze from under her dark lashes told Jess she knew exactly the effect she was having, and was pleased by it. His mind frantically searched for an out, and failed. He would have to take her into town, but he wasn’t going to make it easy for her tease him like this. He moved across on the seat, putting as much distance as he could between them.  

If Slim noticed, he didn’t say. “I’ll see you later, Rebecca. Don’t let Jess rush you, I’ve told him it was time he had a day off. I think I can manage around here for a few hours on my own.” 

Jess made a none-committal grunt and flicked the reigns to urge the horses forward. 

“Hey, you don’t need to be in that much of a hurry to get to town,” Slim laughed as Rebecca turned in her seat to blow him a kiss. ‘I hope this day gets whatever is eating at you out of your system, Pard.’ Slim thought to himself as he watched the buckboard disappear up the road towards Laramie. 

At a leisurely pace the journey by buckboard into the town could take an hour or more. Jess was literally appalled at the idea of being this close to Rebecca for that length of time. His usual caring nature was discarded as he drove the horses hard towards their goal.  

It was Rebecca that stopped the frantic dash. She reached over and snatched the reigns from his hands, pulling back to slow the team down. She brought them to a stop.

“Jess, I don’t like being thrown all over the place and keeping up that pace can’t be good for the horses. I thought we could enjoy a nice leisurely drive and talk things through.” 

“All right, for the horses’ sake I’ll take it easy. Just for the record, we ain’t got anything to talk through,” he practically spat out. As far as Jess was concerned the woman was pure poison. He wouldn’t hurt Slim if he could help it, but he wasn’t going to let Rebecca get close. That would only lead to trouble between Slim and him and that was the last thing he wanted. He snatched the reigns from her hands and started forward again, but this time he kept the pace at a slow trot. His eyes remained fixed on the road ahead, and for the next few minutes a stony silence filled the air around them. 

Rebecca took the time to think through her next steps. She could sense the tension in the man. If her plan was to work she needed Jess to fall for her. She was beginning to look on getting this man into her arms as a real challenge, and not just the next step in the plan to bring Slim Sherman to his knees. She looked sideways at him, careful not to let Jess know she was covertly admiring him. His dark wavy hair dared her to run her fingers through it and his long black lashes veiling his blue eyes called pictures to her mind of him looking down at her, the heat of passion reflected in their depths. 

She felt her own desire rising and had to force herself to remember the real reason she had to seduce him. She had learnt a long time ago that while it could be pleasurable if you desired the man you where about to fleece, it could also be very dangerous. She must not allow herself to lose sight of her real goal. 

“Jess, I have tried really hard to be nice to you. Why do I get the feeling you don’t like me?” she asked, her voice sweet and alluring. 

Still staring ahead, refusing to give her the satisfaction of having him lock eyes with her, Jess grunted his reply. “Maybe cause I don’t” 

“You seemed to like me well enough the first time we met. Why, you even went so far as to ask me out,” Rebecca purred, sliding her body closer as they took a corner. 

Jess appeared not to notice as her thigh rested against his. “That’s the problem. You were willing to come on to me and all the while you where engaged to Slim.” 

“Is that all? I was only teasing you. Slim had been talking about trying to surprise you and catch you out all the way from Denver. I was just playing along.” She wriggled a little, adjusting her position and causing her leg to rub against Jess’ even more. “Why are these seats so hard,” she said, by way of an excuse. 

Trying to move away, Jess found himself up against the edge of the seat and unable to escape the heat of her body against his. “Sure you were, and all the other times after that, whenever you thought no one could see?” 

Rebecca pulled away slightly, feigning shock. “Why, Jess. I really don’t know what you mean. I’ve smiled at you and always been friendly, but I thought it would please Slim if we got along.” 

“You’re idea of getting along is likely to break Slims heart. I’m not going to let you do that to him.” This time Jess did turn to look at her and for a second he was taken aback by the moisture in her eyes, and the solitary tear that rolled slowly down her cheek. ‘She really is attractive’ Jess thought, caught off guard by this show of femininity. ‘Maybe I have been reading her all wrong and it’s my own attraction to her that’s causing the problems. After all, anyone that can make Slim as happy as he has been since he got back, can’t be all bad.’ 

His voice was softer as he spoke again “Look, maybe I haven’t been exactly fair on you. What say we try again and make a fresh start, here and now?” 

A smile lit up his face, sending a shiver of desire through Rebecca. She thanked the training she had had as an actress for giving her the ability to turn on the crocodile tears. It had never failed her yet. 

“That would be wonderful,” she responded. “I’m called Rebecca, and you would be?”  

Jess played along, recognizing that this was her way of starting at the beginning again. “Harper, Miss. Jess Harper,” he responded in like kind. 

“Pleased to meet you, Mister Harper, or may I call you Jess?” She stared up at him innocently, all the time knowing that her carefully chosen low cut dress was giving a more than brief glimpse of her cleavage. Some men liked to be the one who did the chasing and make all the plays, maybe that was the way with this one. She would play the game a more subtle way, using all her well-honed skills of seduction. Inevitably at some point today Jess own body would betray him as it responded to her more subtle overtures. 

Playing her role perfectly, Rebecca was the epitome of polite womanhood. She would have passed for a lady in the most elite group of society. She made light conversation about Laramie, the Ranch and Slim, but all the while, she used her attributes and body language to send messages that any man would find hard to resist. 

For his part Jess, replied to her questions and chatter, trying to relax and warm to her. For Slim’s sake he was willing to give her a second chance. If he noticed her subtle overtures, he didn’t let on, telling himself it was just her way, and he was reading too much into it. 

All the while, he could feel the heat of her body against his, even through their cloths. When she reached over to touch his arm in a supposedly friendly gesture, he could feel his skin tingle beneath her touch. He was struggling to resist the urge to kiss her as she would occasionally turn to speak to him, looking up with large doe eyes through fluttering long dark lashes. ‘You’re imagining it, Harper’ he berated himself. ‘You can’t blame her for your own feelings’ 

By the time they reached Laramie, Rebecca could sense she was winning her battle on all fronts. Jess was doing his best to treat her with respect, but her oozing sexuality was working its magic. Although his mind was denying it, his body was inflamed with desire and need for her. As Jess drew the buckboard into the alley alongside the general store, Rebecca knew it was time to take the final step in Jess’ seduction. She shivered in anticipation of claiming his body. She had to admit that this would be one part of her job she would really enjoy.  

“I’m glad we’ve had this chance to talk and start to set things right between us. I’m sure we can work things out between us now, for Slim’s sake.”  Rebecca leaned in really close to Jess as she spoke. Feeling his body respond to her presence Jess squirmed away, feeling the heat rise to his face.  

“Yeah, sure we can,” he replied as he jumped down from the seat, hastily heading towards the store. 

“Jess!” Rebecca’s sharp call stopped him dead in his tracks, and he spun round towards her, uncertain of what was wrong. 

“What?” he demanded, more harshly than he intended. 

She turned her most appealing smile on him. “I always thought a gentleman helped a lady down in such situations.” Rebecca swept her arms wide indicating her position on the wagon, before scooting onto the seat he had just vacated and stretching her arms out towards him. 

Jess coughed, clearing his throat, which suddenly seemed tight and dry. Reluctantly, but seeing no way to avoid it, he stepped towards her, placing his hands around her trim waist. “Sorry,” he mumbled. He kept his head down so as to avoid meeting her eyes, embarrassed by the thoughts he was having and the reactions her presence was evoking in his body. ‘Tarnation’ he thought ‘How am I gonna keep this up? I’m as human as the next man’ But even as he thought of giving in, he knew he would keep fighting to resist, for the sake of his best friend. 

Feeling the tension in his muscles as she placed her arms around his neck, Rebecca knew her ploy was working. She leant more into his embrace, causing her exposed cleavage to be within inches of Jess’ downcast gaze. 

Taking his only option, Jess tightened his grip on her waist and pulled her close as he lifted her from the buckboard and set her down on her feet. Releasing his grip, he stepped back quickly, seeking to escape from the strong desire flaring through his body. 

His retreat from her wasn’t part of the temptress’ plan. Instantly she took a small step forward, feigning a stumble. Automatically Jess reached out to catch her, pulling her close to steady her and prevent her falling.  

Suddenly she was in his arms, her hands clasped behind his neck, guiding his head down towards her pouting lips, as she raised her eyes to lock with his. Pulling her closer, Jess felt the tingle as his lips brushed hers. Then he lost all of his resolve and control as his basic instincts took over.  

His lips pressed against hers with bruising force. Jess could taste the honeyed sweetness of her mouth and smell the vanilla perfume in her hair. Unable to resist any longer, he pressed his aroused body against hers, as his tongue sought entry to her mouth. 

Rebecca didn’t know what was exciting her more, the heated kiss of this desirable man, or the fact she had succeeded in her intentions. She had him now, and looked forward eagerly to this act of seduction. She would give herself to him, an act she knew she would enjoy, and then she would proceed with the next part of her plan. Her desire was rising almost as fast as Jess’. She really did find Jess exciting and coupled with the powerful aphrodisiac of success, she knew she probably wanted him as much as he obviously needed her right now. 

Her mouth pressed against his, their tongues dueled for dominance. She pulled back slightly, her teeth nibbling at his lips as she allowed her hands to roam lower down his back, pulling his hips tighter to her. 

“Come on,” she breathed the words past his parted lips, her warm breath entering his open mouth. 

“Where to?” Jess responded, his voice husky with desire. 

“The back stairs to the hotel. I have a room booked there,” Rebecca replied, releasing his mouth momentarily to speak, before capturing his lips once again. 

“W--What,” Jess questioned, certain he hadn’t heard her right as he struggled to control his body’s demand. 

Sure of victory now, Rebecca released her tight hold of his body and grabbing his hand started to tug him toward the hotel’s back alley. “The hotel, silly. I booked a room for us,” she laughed, teasing him with her smile.  

As the import of her words hit him like hammer blows, Jess snatched his hand back as if he had been burnt. “YOU! You had this all planned.” His voice was still deep with arousal, but the edge of shock and anger was clearly there. 

Rebecca realized her mistake and cursed herself inwardly even as she tried to recover control of the situation. “Jess, what’s wrong? I just knew you desired me as much as I’ve wanted you from the first time I saw you. It was just a question of time and we both know it. I was just being practical, is all. Now come on,” she urged again. “You know you want it as much as me.” She stepped in close again, encircling him with her arms, pulling his body close again, the feel of his body against hers confirming her words. 

Her lips brushed his again, and finding no resistance, she deepened the kiss. Jess’ hands rose of their own volition and came to her arms, starting once again to explore her willing body. 

Suddenly he stiffened, and grasping her arms, he pushed, shoving her away from him so hard she stumbled back to hit the wall hard.“NO!” Jess’ voice cracked as he bit out the single word of denial.  

Rebecca recovered herself, approaching Jess, to try and salvage the situation. She started to speak. “Why, whatever is the matter, Jess? I don’t--un--.” Her voice petered out as she looked up and saw the undiluted hatred and loathing in his eyes. 

“Stay away from me, you whore.” There was pure venom in his voice as Jess spun around and started to walk away. 

“Wait” the catch in her voice was genuine this time, as was the fear in her eyes. She realized she had pushed the man too far and quite possibly blown the whole thing. In all her careful planning she had not counted on meeting someone that could resist her charms, someone whose loyalty to a friend would enable him to withstand her powerful lure. “What---what will you tell Slim?” she asked, her voice trembling. 

Jess hesitated, he knew what he should tell Slim, but he just couldn’t bring himself to hurt his best friend in this way. He knew telling Slim about his fiancés sexual advances to him would destroy the man. That was if he could even get Slim to believe him, given how completely besotted with the women his partner was.  

When he finally replied he spat out every word as if it was poison. “I’m heading back as soon as I’ve loaded the supplies. You can get the afternoon stage back later. As far as Slim’s concerned you had things to do and I needed to get back.” 

“That’s it,” she asked incredulously. 

“That’s all I’m gonna say. Anything else is up to you.” The anger was clear in his voice and showed in the way his hands formed into tight fists at his side. 

“I--I don’t understand.” Again her confusion was genuine. 

“I wont be the one to hurt Slim, and you’ve got your claws into him so deep it’d tear him apart to know what you’re really like.” He stepped closer to her, intentionally using his physical closeness to intimidate her. “For his sake, you get one chance to make it right. You step out of line just once, and I’ll make it my business to hunt you down and see you in hell.”  

Again he headed to the store, but had one final thought. Turning briefly, his lips curled back in a snarl, he spat out “and keep the hell away from me!” 

To Chapter 5

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