Juicy Secrets Forbidden Tales of Lesbian Love

by Purple Les

The next morning found The Tequila Kid up early. She went to the wash house and showered, then came back to the house refreshed, dressed and wearing her guns, to find Clementine on her way to wash up. “There’s coffee on the stove. Help yourself, Kid.” Clem said as she walked past The Kid in her robe, a towel draped over her arm.

The Kid found herself wishing that she’d known to time things a little differently, so she could have showered with Clementine. Shrugging, she poured herself some coffee and took a seat on the porch, relaxing as she sipped from her cup, thinking about what she’d seen the night before.

A few minutes later, a freshly scrubbed Clementine returned from the wash house. “I’ll be dressed shortly, and then we can talk,” Clem told The Kid. Soon she returned in a pretty green dress, the coffee pot in her hand. She topped up The Kid’s cup, poured some for herself, then pulled a chair up next to The Kid, They drank in silence for a little bit, enjoying the short-lived cool of the morning.

“I can tell that you love your girls in a very special way, Clem,” The Kid murmured. “Just want you to know that I don’t see nothin’ wrong with that… nothin’ at all.”

Clementine stared at The Kid, uncertain of what she was getting at.

“Well, now,” The Kid continued, “I could be mistaken about you and the girls, but I don’t think so.”

“I’m not sure I understand,” Clementine said, a hint of fear creeping into her voice.

“Y’see,” the Kid continued, “Lots of men or women lose their mate. They need the comfort that their mate used to give ’em… and they have children. With some of these folks, they end up takin’ that comfort with the child. You get me?”

Clem shook her head. “No,” she whispered. “No, I don’t.”

“Let me try to explain it better, then,” The Kid continued. “I seen fathers with their daughters, even their sons. I seen mothers with their sons, too…”

Feeling a rising horror, Clementine put a hand over her mouth. Had the Kid discovered her secret?

“There was a couple times where the kids didn’t like what was happening.” The Kid said. “But mostly it was somethin’ of a good, happy feelin’, between the parent and child.”

Reaching for Clementine’s hand, The Kid said, “Tell ya what, though — The happiest that I’ve seen is when it happens between a mother and her daughter.” She gave Clem’s hand a soft squeeze and said, “Like I said, I could be wrong, but I think maybe you take comfort with your girls. I ain’t sayin’ it’s a bad thing, mind you… just that I understand.”

The Kid went back to sipping her coffee while Clementine tried to grasp the enormity of what the Kid had just said. Her mind was in a whirl, and all she wanted right then was to escape. “I — I best see the girls are up,” she mumbled, then rose from her seat and hastened into the house.

Clementine’s heart was pounding; so was her head. How does she know about me and the girls? Did she just guess? Did… did Mimi or Susie tell her about us, the things we do?

She found herself wondering about something else The Kid said. Had she really witnessed that kind of love between mother and daughter? She doesn’t seem disgusted with the idea. I wonder… has she ever been with a woman before? Or… a young girl?

Mounting the stairs, Clem halted in mid-step, suddenly remembering what the girls had told her last night. I think Arabella likes to have fun the same way we do, Ma. She loved being naked with us.

Could it be…? Clementine wondered. Are The Kid and Arabella sweethearts? Have they made love?

Somehow, it made perfect sense. Her heart raced anew as she considered what that might mean. For her, for them all.

Taking hold of herself, Clem shook her head to clear it, then resumed her journey upstairs. An interesting notion, she thought, one we’ll look into later. Not a word to the girls, though. Not till I’m certain.

Rousing the girls, she got them up and moving, then went back downstairs to get started on breakfast. Afterwards, Mimi and Susie did their chores, then Clementine gave them their school lessons for the day. All the while, Clem was thinking about the evening to come.

*****

Arabella had begged Clementine to let her have a good look around the ranch grounds, and her aunt, after some deliberation, had agreed. So when the old cowpoke Slim came by to check on things, and relieve the ranch hand who’d kept watch on the house the night before, Arabella was ready for him.

“Please, Slim. Aunt Clem said it would be all right.” Arabella begged, hands clasped before her. “Didn’t she say that, Kid?”

“Well, now, I reckon that is the truth. I did hear Clem say that,” The Kid said as they advanced toward the stable.

Slim couldn’t help but smile. “Then I guess that’s what we’ll do, since Mrs Clem gave the okay,” he said as he opened up the stable doors.

“Oh, thank you, Slim, thank you!” Arabella cried, practically skipping with glee.

“Lemme saddle up a horse for you, young lady.” Slim said, “Then we’ll have us a nice ride to the ranch.” The Kid went along with them, intending to take the borrowed horse and buggy back to Pablo’s.

Glancing at the saddle rack, Slim said, “Susie’s saddle should just ‘bout fit you, I think. But I’ll put it on Mimi’s horse — she’s a real gentle ride.”

The Kid hitched up the horse and buggy while Slim prepared the horse for Arabella, then assisted the young girl into the saddle.

“See ya later!” Arabella shouted as The Kid headed down the road in the buggy, waving as she went.

Slim mounted his horse. “Well, now, young lady,” he said, “Are you ready to see some sights?”

“Yes, let’s go!” said the girl, taking up the reins. With that, Slim set off on the trail to the ranch, Arabella close behind.

*****

After leaving Kingsley the night before, Frank Sims had gone straight to the livery stable and saddled his horse. It was a couple of hours before sunup, and he was impatient to get moving. A solution to his problem was in sight, and Sims couldn’t rest easy until he’d done what needed doing.

Sims had drunk the best part of a fifth of Kingsley’s whiskey, but the cool morning ride toward the DuMount ranch cleared his head some. Along the way, he thought about what kind of accident he could cause for the little girl.

There ain’t quite as much pleasure to take in the killin’ of a child, he told himself, but be damned if I’ll let anyone live to get me hung.

Sims hitched his horse to a tree about a half mile from the ranch. Climbing a hill set between the ranch house and the ranch proper, he’d watched the place since dawn through his battered spyglass. His patience was rewarded an hour or so later, when he saw Arabella and an old cowhand a ride off towards the ranch.

Hastening down the hill, he made his way to a ridge just above where the trail ran, where he lay in wait, grinning ferociously. Them two is about to have a fatal accident, he told himself with a satisfied nod. And I’ll be long gone before the bodies get found.

*****

Just after dawn, Ramses Kingsley had taken a horse from the livery stable. He’d told the stable man that he was taking a ride to get some fresh air, maybe hunt a little game. Kingsley brought his Henry .44 repeating rifle with him. Before long, he was near the DuMount ranch.

*****

Concealed behind some brush, Sims waited for Arabella and the old cowpoke to show. He had loosened a small boulder and was ready to push it down the hill as the riders approached.

Simple, now, Frank Sims thought. Roll the boulder down and spook the horses, then jump down and club ‘em both with a rock. He recognized the old cowhand, though he couldn’t recall the man’s name. One thing for sure, he’s too old to put up much of a fight. Kill him first, then take care of the girl.

He felt that familiar tingling in his right hand, that delicious sensation of power he always got when there was killing to be done.

Hearing the clatter of hoofbeats approach the bend. Sims braced himself.

*****

As Slim and Arabella came around the bend the boulder came hurtling down toward them, hitting the ground with a loud thud, followed by a shower of clattering small rocks and stones. Arabella’s horse reared in terror, and the girl was thrown. She hit the ground hard, knocking the wind out of her. Quickly dismounting, Slim raced toward the girl.

Frank Sims came running down the hill, unnoticed by the others in the excitement. Seizing Slim’s arm, he spun the older man around to face him.

Slim saw that the big man had his other arm raised, and was clutching a rock. He jerked away from the man’s grip, enough so that the rock hit him in the shoulder instead of his head.

Enraged, Frank yanked Slim’s arm so violently that it dislocated his shoulder. Though blinded by pain, Slim still managed to land a haymaker to Frank’s jaw with his other arm, then broke away, falling to his knees. He drew his gun, but Frank kicked the man in the chest and the gun went flying.

Though the attacker was twice his size, Slim was determined to protect Arabella. Launching himself at the big man, he got a useless punch in before Frank grabbed Slim’s throat, shook him like a rag doll, then sent him sprawling in the dirt. Taking a deep breath, Frank bent to pick up another rock, striding over to where the panting cowhand lay, struggling to rise.

Sims raised the rock high over his head, ready to bring it down — then a familiar clicking sound froze the man to the spot. He slowly turned to look.

Arabella had picked up Slim’s pistol and cocked the hammer back. Now she held it in her shaking hands, arms extended straight out. The tip of Arabella’s tongue stuck out of the corner of her mouth as she drew a bead on Frank — staring down the sight on the gun’s barrel, just like The Kid had taught her.

Frank glared at the girl. “Now you best be careful there,” he growled, quiet menace in his voice.

Arabella squeezed the trigger and the gun roared, knocking her to the ground. The pistol flew from her hands, landing several feet away.

Frank screamed like a wild animal, clutching the side of his head. Bringing his hand away, he stared in disbelief at the blood that coated his fingers, then touched the damaged area again. His eyes widened in rage.

“You little bitch! You done shot my ear off!” the big man bellowed. “That’s it, you’re both gonna fuckin’ die! I don’t care how it looks, neither,” The blood was streaming down the side of his neck.

With his last remaining strength, Slim Green crawled toward the gun.

Reaching down, Frank grabbed Arabella’s hair with his bloody hand, lifting the sobbing girl up from the ground. Seeing Slim from the corner of his eye, he kicked the gun farther away.

Frank wrapped his other hand around Arabella’s throat. Staring into the terrified child’s eyes, he hissed, “I’m gonna love killin’ you. I just wish I had time to shove my pecker in your cunt first.”

Suddenly, a shot rang out. Frank’s face had a startled look, like he was trying to remember something. Dropping the girl, he took two steps, then crashed to the ground, his chest a bloody ruin.

Arabella and Slim both looked toward the sound of the shot. Ramses Kingsley was slowly walking toward them, carrying a rifle. Ejecting the spent shell with a quick thrust of the arm, he smiled.

*****

The Tequila Kid had returned the horse and buggy to Pablo at his blacksmith shop in Oak Creek. They were sitting by his forge, catching up on old times. Pablo’s wife Marguerite brought them lunch — hot tortillas with peppers and strips of roasted pork.

After lunch, The Kid made her goodbyes to Pablo and his family, then strolled across the deadline to the white side of town. She saw Deputy Ritter sitting in front of the sheriff’s office and came over to greet him. They made small talk while the Kid rolled a cigarette, seating herself on the steps before lighting up. As she finished her smoke, they both saw the wagon come racing down the street and stood up together.

The Kid’s blood froze at what she saw.

It was a wagon from Clementine’s ranch. Sitting up front with the reins in his hands was Ramses Kingsley, Clementine seated beside him. Next to her was Arabella, clutching her aunt’s arm and crying. Another horse was tied to the back of the wagon and following — Kingsley’s, The Kid assumed.

Kingsley reined the horse in and put the brake on for the wagon.

As the deputy and The Kid raced toward the scene, Clementine cried, “We need the doctor!” Sheriff Milligan was now by the wagon, along with a lot of onlookers who’d seen the commotion and come to investigate.

“I’ll get Doc Stone,” the deputy said and ran off.

“In the back, Sheriff,” Kingsley said.

The sheriff and The Kid looked in the back of the wagon, both wincing as they saw a battered, deathly-pale Slim, gasping for breath. Next to him lay something — or someone — covered with thick canvas.

As the doctor got to the wagon he frowned, seeing Slim. “We got to get this man to my office straight away.”

Sheriff Milligan raised his arms to silence the crowd. “Some of you boys carry Slim there to the doc’s office.” Several men reached in to take hold of the old cowhand. “Take it easy with him, damn it.” Turning back to the wagon, he pulled back the top of the canvas with the Kid looking over his shoulder, revealing the corpse of Frank Sims. Curling his lip in disgust, he covered the dead man’s face. “Damn his black soul,” he muttered. He looked up at Arabella, still shivering in her aunt’s arms. “Does she need the doc too?” the sheriff asked Clementine.

“Not like Slim does,” Clementine said.

Sheriff Milligan stroked his mustache. “I think we’d all better go to my office.” he finally said.

In the sheriff’s office, Arabella climbed into Clementine’s lap, nestling there. She was bruised and shaken up, and had lost some hair on her scalp, leaving a raw-looking circle the size of a silver dollar. Kingsley took a chair somewhat away from the others. The sheriff seated his bulk behind the desk, while The Kid and the deputy stood nearby.

“What happened, Mrs. DuMount?” the sheriff asked.

“Well,” Clementine hesitantly began, “From what Slim and Arabella have been able to tell me, they were attacked by Frank Sims.”

The sheriff looked at Kingsley. “That so?”

Her face puffy from crying, Arabella looked up and said, “Slim and me were riding, and a b-big boulder come down the hill. My horse spooked and threw me. Then” — she sniffled — “then Slim and the big Indian man was fighting.”

“Indian man?” the sheriff said. “You mean Frank Sims.”

“Frank was an Indian?” said Kingsley, furrowing his brow. “Not sure I catch your meaning.”

The Kid spoke up, “Arabella said the men that attacked her family on the trail out of Adobe Wells was Indians. But they was really white men dressed as Indians, and Frank Sims was one of ‘em.”

“Yes.” Arabella said, “That big man. He was gonna kill Slim. But I g-got hold of Slim’s gun and — and took a shot at him.”

“You killed Sims?” the sheriff asked in surprise.

“Perhaps I could shed a little light here, Sheriff Milligan,” Kingsley said in a cool, steady voice. “I was out riding and heard what I thought was a rock slide, then shouting. Naturally, I went to take a look. As I got closer, I saw this man Slim and Frank, fighting. Then the little girl drew a gun on Frank and fired, but only managed to clip him — in fact, she shot his ear off. That sent Frank into a frenzy, and he snatched the girl up by her hair. It was clear that he meant to kill her, so I fired my rifle. I killed Sims.”

They all stared at Kingsley, who calmly continued. “I rode to the DuMount ranch for help, and here we are.”

“Is that about right, Arabella?” the sheriff asked, still looking thoughtfully at Kingsley.

“Yes, sir,” Arabella answered. Deputy Ritter made a pot of coffee while the sheriff began to take notes. Kingsley, Clementine and the sheriff had some coffee once it was brewed.

“How was it you happened to be out that way, Kingsley?” Milligan asked.

“Just taking a ride. Thought I might try to get some game.” Kingsley answered. “Lately, I’ve had a hankering for venison.”

The sheriff was toying with his mustache again. “Well, I reckon that we know why Sims did what he did. He aimed to get rid of the main witness in his murder trial.” He gazed sorrowfully at Arabella. “Little lady, I’m mighty regretful about all this.”

“He can’t hurt anyone else now,” Arabella spoke quietly, staring down at her hands.

Kingsley shrugged. “I thought I knew the man… clearly, I misjudged his character.” He sighed.  “Sheriff, have Frank’s body taken to the undertaker. I’ll pay for his funeral.” He paused, then added, “I would think that since Frank is dead, his bail money will be returned to me.”

Sheriff Milligan gave Kingsley a disgusted look, but opened the safe and gave Kingsley his thousand dollars back after doing some brief paperwork.

Just then, Doc Stone entered. “Coffee’s still hot, Hiram — get you a cup,” said the sheriff. “How’s Slim?”

“No coffee, thanks — maybe later,” Stone said, “Slim’s busted up kind of bad, but he’ll be okay.” Clementine sighed with relief as the doctor added, “He’ll have to stay put for a few days. I figure by Friday, he can go back to the bunkhouse and finish mending there. Right now, though,” he set his black bag down on a nearby table, “I want to take a look at that girl’s head.”

He seated Arabella on a chair near the window, where the light was strong, then carefully checked her scalp. Taking a bottle from his bag, the doctor said, “Now this will sting you some, but I have to clean the place where the patch of hair got pulled out.”

Arabella winced, squeezing Clementine’s hand while the doctor cleaned the small head wound. “That’s got it,” he finally said. “Now, I’ll make sure you didn’t break any bones.” He gently felt around the little girl’s body, then checked her bruises.

“Well, now,” Doc Stone said, “you just let this young lady rest for a day or two, and she’ll be right as rain. And keep that bare patch dry for a week or so.” He picked up his bag. “I better get back and check on Slim. He fainted dead away when I popped his shoulder back into place.”

“Kid, I want to go see Slim. Will you ride back to the ranch with us?” Clementine asked.

“I will.” The Kid answered. Kneeling next to Arabella’s chair, she smiled at the still-dazed child, taking her hand. “You done good, Button. I reckon Slim woulda got killed if you hadn’t been brave.”

Arabella gave a shaky smile. “I don’t feel so brave.”

“Tell you a little secret,” The Kid murmured. “It’s all right to be scared after it’s all over. What you do when somethin’ needs to be done, that’s what counts. And you stood up to Frank Sims. Saved a good man’s life. That makes you a hero, far as I’m concerned.”

The girl extended her arms toward The Kid, who enfolded her in a tender embrace. She kissed Arabella’s cheek, then stood, suddenly feeling bashful when she noticed Clementine watching them. “Um, you two go on ahead,” she said. “I’ll just be a minute.”

Clementine gave her a mysterious smile, then placed a hand on Arabella’s shoulder. “Let’s go see Slim, sweetheart.” The girl slowly stood, and Clem escorted her out as the deputy held the door.

Sheriff Milligan settled back in his chair, a scowl on his lips. “You stay in town for a couple days, Kingsley. I’ll probably have some more questions.”

Kingsley gave a small bow. “I am at your disposal, Sheriff.” He turned to The Kid. “Would you spare me a moment? I’d like to discuss something with you.”

The Kid had stayed behind intending to speak with Sheriff Milligan, but her curiosity was aroused by Kingsley’s request. “I can give ya ’bout fifteen minutes. Don’t wanna keep Mrs. DuMount nor Arabella waitin’ on me.”

Kingsley smiled. “My office is close by. Shall we?”

Without a word, The Kid followed the man up to his quarters.

Seating himself behind his big desk, Kingsley produced a cut glass decanter and two glasses. He carefully poured whiskey into each glass, then pushed one across the desk to where The Kid now sat.

“Much obliged.” The Kid said. Sipping from the glass, she nodded. “That’s some mighty fine whiskey.”

“Kentucky bourbon,” said Kingsley. “Aged twelve years. A business associate of mine owns a distillery in Lawrenceburg. He owes me money, and I take my payments in liquid form.” Chuckling, he took a swallow from his glass.

The Kid took out her makings and began to roll a cigarette. Placing a paper in her left hand, she sprinkled a generous pinch of tobacco in it. As she pulled the pouch closed with her teeth and stuffed it back in her vest pocket, she deftly rolled the cigarette with her left hand, then licked it closed.

Kingsley opened his humidor. Taking out a cigar, he offered it to The Kid. “Try one of these. They come from Havana, Cuba… the only ones you’ll find west of the Mississippi.”

The Kid said, “Well, I don’t smoke ‘em. I got me a friend who loves a good cigar, though. Mind if I take one for him?”

“Take two. In case you change your mind and want to try one. You’ll never enjoy a sweeter smoke.”

“Mighty kind of you,” The Kid, said putting two of the cigars in her top vest pocket. “You do surprise me, Mr. Kingsley.”

“Please, call me Ramses.” Kingsley said, bringing his smile into play. “Surprise you how?” Snipping the tip off his cigar with a tiny scissors, Kingsley placed it in his mouth and lit it.

The Kid flicked a matchstick to life with her thumbnail and lit her cigarette, then blew the match out, never breaking eye contact with Kingsley. “See, I would of figured you to wait till after Sims killed the girl before you shot him dead. Two birds, one stone sort of thing. Then that gold mine would be all yours, and through no fault of your own.”

Kingsley narrowed his cold gray eyes at The Kid as he blew a smoke ring toward the ceiling. “Well, I thought letting the girl die might look too…” He searched for the right word, taking another pull from his cigar. “Let’s just say I thought it best to keep her alive. I might try my luck at asking for her aunt’s hand… she’s still a fetching woman, after all. At any rate, perhaps the fact that I did save her from Sims will make you a little more receptive to an offer I have for you.”

“What kind of offer?” the Kid asked, taking a deep drag on her cigarette.

Letting his cigar rest in the ashtray, Kingsley folded his hands. “Let me put my cards on the table, Kid.” He paused, weighing his words. “That contract for the gold mine has me paying for the expense of it, but only getting twenty percent of the profit. Hardly fair, don’t you think?”

The Kid shrugged. “Hell, you signed it.” Leaning back in the chair, she propped her dirty boots up on the mahogany desk, enjoying the brief flash of annoyance that appeared on Kingsley’s face. She took another warm slug of whiskey, idly studying the glowing tip on the end of her smoke.

“Be that as it may,” Kingsley said, “I have to make the best of a bad deal. Now, here’s my offer. You have four bags of gold in your possession, property of the Adobe Wells bank. If you hand two of those bags over to me, I can use them to get the mine running. That leaves you with half the gold… and I’ll make you a silent partner in the mine, at five percent of the profits. The Hodgkiss girl will never know. She’ll be rich and happy, not a care in the world. Then, once things are up and running at the mine, I can get myself into Mrs. DuMount’s good graces.”

The Kid reached out, setting her empty glass on the desk. Kingsley refilled it, then added some to his own. Sitting back, he took a sip, waiting for the young woman to respond.

“Well, now,” The Kid said, wearing her best poker face, “that does sound like a generous offer.” She was fuming inside, but managed to keep her voice calm and even. Leaning in, she squashed the butt of her cigarette in Kingsley’s ashtray. “Only trouble is… I ain’t got the gold.”

“Now, Kid,” said Kingsley, wagging his finger, “Let’s be frank with one another. As I understand it, you caught the bank robbers in the act, then took the gold. Charlie Redeye found two dead men in the badlands who’d been chasing you. It wasn’t with them. And I know that not one of those bags been returned to the bank in Adobe Wells. No, my friend — you still have that gold.”

“That’s a fair guess, Ramses.” The Kid said, taking a sip of her drink. “Thing is, Charlie lied to Sims about that. He took the gold himself.” The Kid reached into her vest pocket and took something out, holding it tightly in her hand. “When I looked at Charlie’s body, the Doc let me see his belongings. I looked in his medicine pouch. Most Indians carry one, y’know. They’re usually filled with some ash, maybe a feather, a bit of fur or a small piece of bone.”

As Kingsley stared at her, The Kid continued. “When I picked up Charlie’s medicine pouch, it was pretty heavy. Here’s why.” The Kid opened her hand to reveal a very large gold nugget, which she placed on the desk in front of Kingsley. “I found that inside. That’s how I know he had the gold.”

The Kid paused, reaching for the decanter and refilling her glass, then Kingsley’s. “Here’s what I think happened. See, I got pinned down in the badlands by them two holdup men. My horse was dead. So was one of theirs. We had us a stand off. They said if I gave ‘em the gold, I could walk away. So that’s what I done.”

They both drank, then the Kid said, “Maybe one of ‘em wanted to get the gold back to his boss and the other didn’t. Maybe they wanted to split it and head for parts unknown, only one of ‘em got greedy. Maybe they fought over the horse, or the gold, or both. Whatever it was, they drew and shot each other dead.”

Kingsley held his glass up, staring thoughtfully at the amber fluid. It could have gone that way, he mused.

The Kid paused to finish her drink. “So here comes Charlie Redeye, trackin’ me for Frank Sims. He finds two dead horses, two dead men and four bags of gold. He takes the gold, but keeps on his trackin’ job, ‘cause he knows Sims will give him big money for the girl.”

Kingsley took a puff on his cigar. The Kid leaned forward in her chair and said, “Charlie caught up with me, but I got the drop on him and drugged him up good, then he couldn’t help but talk. He told me a big man would pay him plenty money for killin’ that girl.” The Kid picked up her empty glass and turned it upside down on the desk.

“What I reckon,” she went on, “is that Charlie lied to Sims. He told Sims the girl was dead and he didn’t find no gold. He’d get his money from Sims and still have them four bags of gold for himself.”

The Kid shook her head. “Charlie said somethin’ about how he left it with the Hodgekiss family. Till he could go for it.” Slumping down in the chair, she sighed. “I reckon that means he hid it where they was killed, but who knows where that is? Sims knew, but he’s dead now. Charlie found ‘em cause he was a good tracker, and he’s dead, too. By the time I found Arabella, that little girl had no idea where she was. I tried to get her to help me find the place, but we just ended up goin’ in circles. So that gold is out there in the badlands somewhere… but be damned if I know any more than that.”

Pushing her chair back, The Kid stood. “So, thanks for the offer. But I can’t help you.” Smiling wryly, she pointed at the gold nugget resting on the desk. “Tell you what, Ramses… you can keep that. Guess  it’ll be your share of the gold.” Chuckling, she clapped her battered hat on her head and walked out without a backward glance.

Kingsley stared at the nugget. If the Kid was telling the truth, and he thought she was, then that gold was out there. The little girl had no idea where she’d been. No one was left alive to know the location of the murder site.

No one but Ramses Kingsley, he thought, grinning excitedly.

*****

The Kid went to Doc Stone’s to wish Slim well, then she got on the wagon with Clementine and Arabella and drove it back out to the ranch. Once they’d arrived, Clementine took Arabella upstairs to lie down and rest. Clementine had Susie and Mimi start dinner, after telling them everything that happened in town. The mood in the house was a subdued one as Clem and the Kid sat side by side on the front porch.

Finally, The Kid turned to Clem. “I’ll be leavin’ tomorrow at sunup,” she said flatly.

Clementine was shocked. “Why, what do you mean, Kid?” she asked. “You’ve only been here one night!”

The Kid smiled at her. “It’s just for a few days, Clem. I’ll be back, promise. Got some work to take care of.”

Clementine nodded. “Walk with me before you go. I have something to ask you.”

Clem led the Kid up a hill to a tall oak tree. They sat together on a bench and looked at two stone grave markers. “My husband’s buried there.” Clementine said, gesturing toward the larger marker. “That other grave is for the child I lost between Mimi and Susie.”

The Kid wasn’t sure what to say, so she remained silent.

Clementine took The Kid’s hand. “If it’s possible, I’d like my sister and her family to be buried here. I’ve made arrangements for my nephew Dan and my mother’s body to be moved here soon, but… “ Her eyes began to water. “We’re already deep in your debt, Kid, I know that. But if you could see your way to bringing the remains of our kinfolk back to us, it would mean more to me than anything…”

“Don’t say another word, Clem. I can do that for you. I’ll be needin’ to borrow a good horse for four or five days.”

“Anything I have is yours.”

The Kid stroked her chin. “I’ll need me some supplies too.”

“I’ll pay for them. Whatever you want.”

They stood, and Clementine led the Kid back down the hill. As they walked arm in arm, Clem asked, “How did you know about me and my daughters? That’s not why you’re leaving, is it?”

“Shucks, no,” The Kid answered. She felt her cheeks get hot as she said, “Guess I oughta confess, Clem. I saw the three of you last night. I sleep kinda light and, well…” She was horribly embarrassed, but knew that she had to be truthful. “Y’see, somethin’ woke me up, and I thought maybe someone had broke in. I never would of peeked through your keyhole, not if I’d knowed for certain that you and the girls weren’t in some kind of danger.” She fell silent, then added, “Anyhow, I only looked for a little while…”

Now it was Clementine’s turn to blush. “Oh, my. You don’t think badly of us?”

“I can see your girls is good girls… and you’re a mighty fine momma. You got no reason to be ashamed. And I think you’ll find out if you give her the chance, Arabella would like to do that sort of thing with the three of you.”

Clementine nodded. “My girls seem to believe something like that. Why do you think so?”

“Well… just between you and me, Clem, Arabella told me how she used to play petting games with her sister. And while we was on the trail, sometimes she and I had us a little innocent fun. The same kind of fun you like to have with your girls.”

Clementine’s eyes suddenly sparkled. “I’m glad to hear that.” By then, they were back inside the ranch. “I’ve got to get supper done now. We’ll be eating in about ten minutes. Thank you, Kid, for your, um, insight.” Drawing close, she gave the younger woman a gentle kiss, then made her way into the kitchen.

The Kid watched as Clementine put on an apron, absently touching her lips where they’d been kissed. After a moment, she went upstairs and into the room where Arabella lay sleeping.

The Kid softly kissed the young girl’s cheek, then watched Arabella’s eyes flutter open.

“How you feelin’ now?” The Kid asked as the child rubbed sleep from her eyes.

“My head stings some. And I feel kinda sore.”

The Kid had taken some herbs and a small clay jar of ointment from her saddlebags. “This’ll take the sting out,” she said, gently rubbing the ointment she’d made into the scraped spot on Arabella’s head.

“Smells funny,” Arabella said, making a face.

“That’s how you know it works,” The Kid replied. She gently brushed and combed Arabella’s hair to remove the bits of dried blood caught in it — some of it hers, the rest belonging to Frank Sims. That done, The Kid poured some water from a porcelain pitcher into a glass, then added the herbs to it, She offered the glass to the girl, saying, “Drink this all the way down, then you’ll sleep sound tonight and feel fine in the mornin’.”

Arabella grimaced after she’d drained the glass, wiping her mouth with the back of her hand. “Oooggghh.”

The Kid smiled. “Let’s go down now, Button. Supper’s almost ready.”

*****

After a quiet supper, The Kid took Arabella up to bed. Tucking the girl in, she told Arabella, “I’ve got to go away for a few days, Button. You’ll be safe here with your Aunt Clem.”

Arabella peppered her with questions, but The Kid refused to answer any of them, just said, “I got some work to get done. I’ll be back to see you after that.”

The child wasn’t satisfied with that reply, but The Kid’s herbs were already doing their work. Arabella yawned once, then fell sound asleep. Stripping naked, The Kid climbed into bed, cradling the girl to her.

The Kid awakened just before dawn. Sitting up, she bent to kiss Arabella’s forehead. She whispered to the sleeping girl, “I made a bad mistake yesterday, Button. I never should’ve left you alone. I oughta have been there to take out Sims and that rat bastard Kingsley. I’m gonna make it right, though. I swear it.” The Kid looked at Arabella one last time and whispered, soft as a sigh, “If I don’t make it back, I hope somewhere deep inside, you know how much I love you.”

Quietly dressing, The Kid took her gear downstairs and outdoors before anyone else was up. The Kid saddled up the horse that Clementine had told her to use — a handsome red sorrel, the best steed on the ranch — and rode off out to town before moving on.

*****

Two days later, Ramses Kingsley had packed most of his belongings onto a wagon. He’d withdrawn all his money from the bank, and sold off most of his local business interests, all but his share of the mine.

He was headed for a certain spot near Adobe Wells, the one where Charlie Redeye had hidden the four bags of gold. Once he had that, he’d maybe head for San Francisco. Maybe Mexico. He’d decide later, once the gold was his.

He’d heard the Tequila Kid had left town, and that did a lot to ease his mind. As his wagon rolled down the dusty road, Kingsley lit a cigar, thinking about how he’d be a rich man in a day or two.

On to Chapter Eleven!

by Purple Les

With The Kid’s hand in hers, eleven-year-old Susie marched toward the house with a determined stride, escorting her new friend to the wash house. Suddenly she halted in mid-step. “You need a change of clothes after you wash?” she asked. “Maybe we should get those first.”

“That’s a mighty good idea,” said The Kid. “Reckon I got a day’s worth of sweat and trail dirt on these duds.”

“This way, then.” Changing her direction, Susie guided The Kid to the front door of the ranch house.

The Kid’s belongings were still in the entryway, so she took what she needed from her saddlebags. Then Susie retraced their route to the wash house. It was a small well-built shack with a tin roof, a door and two windows and a small stove, plus a water barrel on top that served as a shower. There was also a tub inside, and the well wasn’t far away, either.

“You can put your clothes over there,” Susie told the Kid. “There is washcloths and towels hanging yonder. You can shower or have a bath. If you want a bath, I can help you heat up some water on the stove there. We’d just need to make a fire in the stove. The soap’s on the shelf.”

“Well, now, Susie.” the Kid said, “It’s such a hot day, I believe I’d be partial to a shower.” She glanced at Susie who didn’t seem to have any intention of leaving. “If you have other things to do, I’ll be fine here.”

Susie shrugged. “I got nothin’ to do. If I go back to the house, Ma will just find chores for me. Uh… mind if I stay and keep you company?”

“Sure, that’s fine with me,” The Kid answered. She could tell that the preteen girl wasn’t hanging around to make small talk, but to see her naked. Not that The Kid was bothered by the idea. In fact, the thought of baring herself before this sweet young thing excited her.

The Kid unfastened her gun belt and put it to one side, then sat down on the bench to take her boots off.

“Let me help,” Susie said. Straddling The Kid’s leg with her back to the young woman, she began to tug at the heel of the left boot. “You push, I’ll pull,” Susie instructed.

As she struggled with the boot, Susie’s dress bunched up over the Kid’s leg, exposing the girl’s black stockings up to her knees.

Finally, Susie managed to pull the first boot off, stumbling forward but quickly catching her balance. “There!” she exclaimed, brandishing it proudly. “Now the other one.”

As Susie started on the right boot, The Kid put her stockinged foot on the girl’s backside, giving her some leverage.

What a nice behind she’s got, The Kid thought as the other boot came off. Wouldn’t mind seeing it bare.

“Good job, Susie,” said The Kid, shucking her socks before she stood and began to undress. She doffed her vest, then began to undo the buttons of her flannel shirt, slowly opening it to reveal her breasts.

The Kid pretended that this was all perfectly normal, stripping naked in front of an eleven-year-old girl. Most women would’ve asked for some privacy. Instead, the Kid let her shirt fall to the floor, then slowly undid the buttons on the fly of her Levi-Strauss jeans. She liked how fidgety and red-faced Susie got as more and more of her body was exposed.

All the while Susie kept chatting away about this and that, trying to seem nonchalant — but her eyes kept coming back to The Kid.

Now completely nude, The Kid stepped under the nozzle and pulled the rope that allowed the cool water to sprinkle down freely. Once she’d soaked her skin and hair, she picked up the soap and began to lather herself up.

Susie had been trying to keep up the small talk, but now she stood quietly, staring at the nude young woman. Finally, unable to help herself, she timidly stammered, “You’re b-beautiful. Like a… a Greek statue or something, but even prettier.” Then she made a face, clearly embarrassed and regretting her words.

She perked up right away, though, when The Kid smiled and replied, “Why, thank you. That’s the sweetest thing anyone ever said to me, I do believe.”

“I like the, the paintings on your arms, too.” Susie added, “Did it hurt to get them?”

“These? They’re called tattoos. And yeah, they did smart some for a day or so. Got them the same time as the ones on my chin.” The Kid made sure to give Susie a good look at her from all sides as she washed. Finally, she faced the awed girl and lathered up her vulva, working her fingers around that area.

As she gently toyed with her clit, The Kid saw Susie staring wide-eyed, watching her masturbate. The girl’s hands were in her lap, pressing down, and she was squeezing her thighs together. There was also a pinkness in her cheeks that had nothing to do with the warmth of the bathhouse.

Got a feeling that Arabella’s gonna fit in just fine here with her cousins, The Kid thought. Tugging at the rope again, she rinsed herself off thoroughly.

The Kid stood facing Susie. Her skin gleaming, nipples hard. She watched as Susie took in the entirety of her nakedness, the young girl’s eyes moving from her tits down to her tight belly until she was staring at the Kid’s vulva. The moderate tan of the Kid’s face and hands contrasted with the rest of her light skin.

“Could’ya hand me a towel please, Susie?”

That seemed to rouse Susie from the trance she’d fallen into. Hastening to fetch a towel, she handed it to The Kid, but kept drinking in the sight of her bare body. “How’d you get that scar on your right arm?” Susie finally asked.

The Kid was surprised by the question, since Arabella had never asked her about it. “Gunshot wound,” she answered, leaving it at that. It had happened three years ago on her last visit to Oak Creek, a reminder that death was always near, waiting to claim one more.

Taking her time about it, The Kid put on the clean clothes she’d brought along: a clean but more worn pair of dungarees and a man’s black cotton shirt that she didn’t bother to tuck in. She slid her feet into clean socks, swapping a pair of moccasins for her boots, then put her green corduroy vest back on after brushing some of the dust off it. She combed her long wet hair out, letting it hang straight to dry. She didn’t strap her gun belt back on, just slung it over one shoulder.

Picking up her poor battered hat, she placed it on Susie’s head. “There ya go, buckaroo.” Susie giggled, delighted.

They walked back to the house, Susie skipping the whole way with the Kid’s dirty clothes bundled in her arms. Once inside, The Kid draped her gun belt over a peg. After plucking her hat off Susie’s head, she hung that over her guns, then set her boots on the floor. Susie put the clothes in a small room off to the side where the laundry was gathered, returning just as Arabella and Mimi came thundering down the stairs.

Arabella raced over to The Kid, while Susie joined her sister at the foot of the staircase.

“Well, now, Arabella,” said The Kid, looking the freshly scrubbed girl up and down. ”Don’t you look like a princess, with that pretty dress and your hair piled up high like that.”

Arabella wrinkled her nose and said, “You smell pretty, Kid, like a flower.”

“Thanks. I reckon it must be that soap they have in the wash house. You smell nice, too.”

“Thanks, Mimi had me stand in my underclothes while she cleaned me up with soap and water. She washed my hair too and put it up like her and Aunt Clem wear it. The dress is one of Susie’s that she outgrew.” She drew closer, glancing over her shoulder to make sure no one else was listening. “I think Mimi liked me in my underwear, that’s all I had on for awhile. She kissed me right on the mouth once, too.”

While she listened to Arabella, The Kid watched the sisters whisper to each other, as if exchanging similar secrets. Wonder what they’re talkin’ about, she mused. Is Susie tellin’ Mimi about seein’ me in the altogether? The way the girls kept stealing glances at her made The Kid think this might be the case, especially since they were looking at Button in the very same way.

A moment later, the sisters walked over to join The Kid and Arabella. “Come on with us,” Mimi said. “Supper’s ready.”

It was early evening now, and when Susie and Mimi led their new friends into the dining room, Clementine was there lighting the oil lamps, then the candles on the table. Blowing out the match once she’d lit the last one, she said, “Arabella, Kid, please have a seat. The girls will help me bring the food out.” She left for the kitchen, her daughters close behind.

Once they were alone, Arabella quickly asked, “What happened when Susie took you to the wash house, Kid? Did she help you get clean? Was she givin’ you the eye when you took your clothes off?”

“Shhhh… best ask me later, Button. They’re comin’ right back.”

Sure enough, Clementine emerged from the kitchen an instant later, bearing a platter piled high with fried chicken. Susie followed with a basket of warm biscuits and a bowl of dumplings. Mimi was behind her sister with hot ears of corn and a bowl of mashed potatoes. They placed the food on the table in turn, then sat down.

Clementine and the girls folded their hands and Clem said, “Thank you, Lord, for gifting us with the return of our beloved Arabella… and for our new friend, The Tequila Kid. We ask that you look down on this family in the day to come, and guide us in all things. Now bless this food for the nourishment of our bodies, and our bodies to thy service. We pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

Susie and Mimi echoed “Amen.” Clem looked up with a smile and said, “Help yourself while it’s still hot.”

As they began to tuck in, Clementine said, “I’ve some good French wine, Kid, if you care to indulge.”

“Well, ma’am — sorry, Clem — I reckon I couldn’t taste the difference ‘tween fancy wine and cheap rotgut, but I’d be mighty proud to try yours.”

Laughing, Clementine poured wine for her and the Kid, then the room fell silent but for the sound of eating, forks and knives clinking on china.

Eventually, The Kid spoke up. “These are the best vittles I’ve ate in a long spell,” she said, spreading a dab of fresh butter on the steaming core of a hot biscuit.

“I made the dumplings,” fourteen-year-old Mimi said. “Ma fried up the chicken and we helped each other with all the rest.”

“It would have been easier if someone hadn’t vanished for most of the afternoon,” Clementine said as she gave Susie a stern look. Susie looked down at the table with a sheepish look on her face.

Taking a sip of wine, The Kid said, “You are both good cooks.”

Arabella said, “Out where the Kid fixed me up after I got lost in the desert, we ate chicken most every day. I never had such good chicken before.”

“Well, now,” the Kid said shyly, “When you’re out on the trail and half-starved, everything tastes better when it’s cooked over the fire and you eat it outside. But for my money, this is the best chicken and dumplings I ever did have.”

They continued to eat and chat. At one point Susie said, “Save room for dessert, everybody. Ma made an apple pie.”

“I wish I’d knowed that before I had seconds. I’m fit to bust.” the Kid said.

“Don’t worry,” said Clementine, “We’ll clean up the dishes before we have dessert. I’ll make us some coffee, too.”

“Let us do it, Ma,” Susie said, wanting to get back on her mother’s good side. “You already worked hard enough on supper. C’mon, Mimi — give me a hand.”

“I’ll help, too,” Arabella said with a smile, getting up with Mimi.

“Thank you, girls,” Clementine murmured.

The three girls cleared off the table and started coffee while the Kid and Clementine got to know each other better. The Kid explained to Clementine that they never had chicken while they were on the trail… she’d only told that to Arabella so she’d eat the less appetizing kinds of game she caught, like lizards or snakes.

The Kid shared some of her history with Clementine, then Clem told the Kid how her husband had died years after the Civil War from complications of his battle injuries.

“With Pete gone, I thought sure that we’d have to sell off the ranch,” she said. “It was Slim who talked me out of it. He and my husband were like brothers… they served together in the war, you know. Anyhow, Slim got most of the other hands to stay on. Four of them are still with us, and they’re practically part of the family. I hope you’ll stay long enough to meet them all. Fine boys, every blessed one.”

The Kid nodded. “I got to jaw some with Slim. Liked him right away. Men like him don’t grow on every bush, that’s for sure.”

“Slim still treats me like I’m his daughter. He didn’t exactly stop any men from coming to court me after Pete passed, but he sure weeded out the ones that was just after the ranch.” She shook her head. “It didn’t matter, really. I’ve got no plans to marry again.”

Uncertain of how to respond, The Kid remained silent.

Her expression suddenly turning sober, Clem sighed. “Tell me, Kid,” she began, “how is Arabella holding up? Honestly, now.”

“To be truthful, I ain’t exactly sure. Not bad, I reckon, considering what she saw,” The Kid said. “Y’see, Clem, she saw her Ma and sister raped. Saw her Pa beat. Maybe saw ‘em all killed, I ain’t sure about that. Her Pa hid her in a barrel, is why them outlaws didn’t get her too. And then she lost her brother and grandma, also to murder.”

“Yes,” Clem said, sighing again. “If only Mike could’ve left the boy with me instead of my mother, he’d have been spared, at least… but her home was much closer than mine.” She reached out to take The Kid’s hand in hers. “What on earth did Arabella do after… after what she saw? Poor thing, she must’ve been terrified.”

“Maybe, but she showed real grit, too. Her Ma had told her to run when she could. She escaped without bein’ seen by the killers. Then she ran, walked, and crawled deep into the badlands, tryin’ to get help.” The Kid felt a lump in her throat, but kept her voice steady. “I reckon she’ll pull through it all right, now that she’s with her kinfolk. You seem good people to me. She’s young, but tough… and I’m hopin’ the worst of things is behind her now.”

Clem was about to speak, but stopped herself as the girls traipsed back into the dining room, fresh from cleaning up the kitchen. Smiling at The Kid, she rose from her seat. “Shall we move into the front parlor? We can have Mimi play the piano for us.”

“I’d like that,” said The Kid.

Clementine poured herself more wine, then topped up The Kid’s glass before leading them into the room next door. Mimi seated herself before a piano, and Susie squeezed in next to the Kid on the loveseat while Arabella sat next to her aunt on the couch.

Mimi shuffled through her sheet music. “Here’s one I like a lot,” she said. “Chopin’s Nocturne, Opus Nine, Number Two.” Susie, come turn the pages for me please.” Susie got up and stood by the piano. Mimi briefly flexed her fingers, then began to play. Susie watched her sister. When Mimi gave a small nod Susie knew to turn the page. When Mimi finished and bashfully glanced up at her audience, they burst into applause.

Hoping no one noticed, The Kid hastily brushed a tear from her cheek. “Goodness me… that sounded pretty as a mockingbird singin’ by a brook at sunset,” she said.

Blushing adorably, Mimi bowed her head in thanks.

“It was lovely, dear,” said Clementine, rising to her feet. She’d noticed how moved The Kid had been, and found herself surprised at how sensitive the young woman really was. Wanting to change the mood, she added, “Now, Mimi, play something we can dance to.” She smiled at her guests. “Kid, could you help me move the table to one side, so we’ll have room? Susie, you can roll up the carpet.”

A moment later a space was cleared, and Clem nodded to Mimi. “All right, sweetheart. Play something fast!”

Mimi began a Stephen Foster song at a lively tempo, and a delighted Susie started to spin Arabella around in a circle, clutching both her hands. Arabella caught on quickly, and soon the two girls were giggling with glee as they capered about.

Clementine extended a hand to The Kid. “Will you do me the honor?”

It had been a long while since The Kid had danced, but she gamely allowed herself to be drawn into a brisk two-step.

By the last notes of the tune, the dancers were out of breath, and fell back laughing on the couch and loveseat. They applauded Mimi, who stood and curtsied. Now it was time for dessert. Susie and Mimi went off to the kitchen, soon emerging with a tray bearing slices of pie, and cups of coffee for the grownups.

As they finished dessert, it became clear that the younger girls were fast winding down for the evening. Arabella seemed drowsy, and Susie couldn’t keep from yawning.

“All right girls,” Clementine said, “I think it’s about time to turn in. Susie, you’ll sleep with Mimi tonight. Her bed’s big enough for the two of you. The Kid can take your bed, Susie, and I’ll make up the couch for Arabella.”

“Shucks,” the Kid said, “You can give Arabella the bed, and I’ll put my bedroll on the floor alongside. I find most beds are too soft for me to get any sleep on.”

“If that’s how you prefer it,” Clementine said. “Girls, take Arabella upstairs with you and get ready for bed. I’ll be up directly to tuck you in.”

Susie and Mimi each took their cousin by a hand and led Arabella upstairs, taking her to Mimi’s bedroom. Closing the door, Mimi took her shoes off, then presented her back to Susie. Arabella watched wide-eyed as the little sister unfastened the catch at the back of Mimi’s dress, feeling her excitement grow as the older girl let the garment drop to the floor. Mimi then shucked her underclothes and black stockings, finally standing naked before the two younger girls.

“By golly,” Mimi said, hugging herself, “It sure does feels good to take those clothes off. I think it’s my favorite time of the day, when I get to be in the altogether.” Glancing at her little sister, she said, “I guess you better go get your nightgown, Susie. Did you bring a nightie along, Arabella? Susie can fetch it back here for you.”

Arabella felt her face grow warm as she said, “Um, I don’t have one.” The sisters looked at each other, then grinned as Arabella added, “I’ve just been sleepin’ with nothin’ on.”

“That’s okay,” Mimi said, “Susie, bring back an extra one of yours for Arabella.”

As Susie scampered back to her bedroom, Mimi turned to Arabella. “Here, now. Let me help you get that dress off.”

Arabella’s heart raced as she stared at her fourteen-year-old cousin, so casual about her nudity. She noticed that Mimi’s breasts were a little bigger than May’s. Her nipples were big and pink. Puffy looking. She had more hair down between her legs than either May or the Kid had. It was dark and curly.

Arabella liked the look of her cousin’s body, so soft and comforting. She wanted to wrap both arms around it, hug it close. Mimi reminded Arabella a little of her sister, she decided. That got her thinking, wondering if Mimi and Susie ever diddled together, the way she and Sophia had. Then she thought better of it. Sisters almost never do that with each other, I bet.

But then she thought about May and June, and the things she’d done with the Kid and Miss Annie. Maybe, Arabella thought. Mimi and Susie seem to love each other an awful lot. They could have special love, too.

As she toyed with that interesting notion, Arabella was startled to hear Mimi’s voice suddenly say, “There now, cousin. You’re naked, just like me. Isn’t this fun?”

Sure enough, she was. Lost in thought, it had barely registered that Mimi was undressing her. Drinking in the sight of the older girl’s bare body once more, Arabella suddenly giggled and said, “Yes! You’re right, this is fun.”

At that moment, Susie came back in the room, a nightgown in each hand. Halting in mid-step, she giggled, then said, “Well, I never! Look at you two just standing there together, naked as jaybirds.”

Feeling a sudden attack of shyness, Arabella scurried behind Mimi. But the older girl reached back for her, drawing Arabella out so that her little sister could see. Arabella tried to wriggle free from Mimi’s grasp, but it only gave Susie a better look at her nude cousin — and the young girl liked what she saw, especially Arabella’s flat chest and baby-smooth vulva. Susie knew every inch of her big sister’s body, and the prospect of having a new girl to explore thrilled her to the quick.

“Are you two gonna put your nightgowns on?” Susie asked, holding them to her chest as if she had no intention of letting them do so.

“Nope,” was Mimi’s answer, “Me and Arabella are going to strip you bare naked!” She pushed her little sister down on the bed, then turned to her cousin. “C’mon, Arabella. Help me get her clothes off!”

Leaping onto the bed, Arabella began to unbutton Susie’s dress. A squealing Susie pretended to struggle, her eyes dancing with delight all the while. Before a minute has passed, she was as nude as the others.

Arabella drank in the sight of her younger cousin. She loved Susie’s budding breasts and her almost bare vulva, with just a sprinkle of down to adorn it. The girls sat on the bed, studying each other’s nude bodies.

Mimi asked Arabella, “Did you ever see the Tequila Kid naked?”

Arabella swallowed hard and said, “On the trail we got to see each other a few times. She’s awful pretty.”

“I’ll say!” Susie added. “I saw her naked at the washhouse. She’s the most beautiful woman I ever did see.”

*****

Downstairs in the parlor, Clementine took the Kid’s hand as she asked, “How old are you, Kid? You don’t look much older than Mimi.”

“Well, I’m a mite older than fourteen. I don’t know for sure, but I believe I am nineteen. Maybe twenty.”

“You’ve done a lot of living in those years, I think.”

“No more than lots of other folks, I reckon.” The Kid felt a certain warmth creep through her as Clementine held her hand. She’d already noticed that Arabella favored her aunt in looks. Fine features, that the other girls also shared with their mother.

Just then, a thump and a burst of shrieking laughter could be heard from upstairs. “What in thunder do you think is goin’ on up there?” asked The Kid, glancing at the ceiling.

Clementine laughed. “Well, young girls can be very silly and rambunctious sometimes. I’ll tell you this, though — it’s when children get silent that you need to wonder what they’re up to.”

*****

At that moment, it had gone silent. Upstairs in Mimi’s bedroom, Susie put her hand on Mimi’s breast and nipple, then told Arabella to do the same with the other one. Arabella liked how it felt to the touch — soft but firm at the same time. She was getting warm and wet between her legs. Mimi’s nipple seemed to get harder and press against the palm of Arabella’s hand.

“Do you girls like how my nipples feel?” Mimi said.

“Yeah!” Susie replied, then Arabella gave a bashful nod.

Mimi smiled, then softly said, “Why don’t you kiss them, then?”

The two younger girls exchanged quick glances, then removed their hands and slowly drew closer to Mimi’s bare chest — but froze at the sound of a voice from downstairs.

“Girls!” Clementine called. “You finish getting ready for bed. I’ll be up in just a moment to say goodnight.”

Jumping to their feet, the girls hurriedly pulled their nightgowns on and began to brush their hair, exchanging knowing smiles. Arabella’s heart was throbbing at the thought of what they’d very nearly done… and what it meant. I reckon they do have special love, she told herself, and they want me to have it with them.

Moments later, Clementine peeked into the room. “Hello, girls,” she said upon entering. “All ready for bed?” Susie and Mimi nodded. “Say good night to Arabella, then.”

Clem’s daughters both embraced their cousin. “Good night, Arabella,” Mimi whispered. “I’m glad you’ve come to stay with us.”

“We’re gonna have so much fun together,” Susie murmured, her lips brushing Arabella’s neck.

Arabella was trembling in the girls’ arms, enveloped in their sweet mingled fragrances. “Good night,” she said. “You’re so nice to me. I already love it here.”

As they broke apart, Arabella looked at Susie and Mimi in turn, thrilled by what she saw in their eyes. By then she knew for certain that these girls wanted to make love to her.

Mimi climbed into her bed, followed by Susie. Bending down, Clementine gave each of her daughters a kiss. “Sweet dreams, my angels.” She straightened, then reached for Arabella’s hand. “Let’s get you settled in.”

The Kid’s voice was heard out in the hallway. “Night-night, ladies. I’ll be seein’ you both tomorrow.”

“Good night, Kid!” Mimi and Susie cried, sitting up in bed.

“All right. Now go to sleep,” Clem told her girls, leading Arabella into the hall and gently closing the door.

“I’ll hope you will both be comfortable.” Clementine said as they entered Susie’s room. Helping Arabella into bed, she gave her a tender kiss on the lips. “Good night.” she said. With a nod and a smile for The Kid, Clem left the room, closing the door behind.

“Do you think we could have some fun?” Arabella asked.

The Kid grinned. “I don’t see why not. We gotta be real quiet, though. Let me get outta these clothes first.” She stripped naked, pausing to place her things by the bedroll so that she could dress quickly, should the need arise.

“All right, Button, let’s…” Her voice trailed off, then she chuckled. Arabella had already fallen sound asleep. Shrugging, The Kid opened a window, blew out the oil lamp, then slipped into her bedroll, dozing off quickly.

*****

The sound of quiet footsteps had The Kid awake and alert in an instant.

She heard murmured voices, then a door closing. Arabella slumbered on undisturbed while The Kid listened closely. She dared not waste a moment if there was danger. The Kid rose quickly from her bed roll, pausing only to draw a pistol from its holster.

Moving cat-like across the room, The Kid slowly opened the door and peered into the hall, noticing right away that Mimi’s bedroom door was open. She crept into the hallway and looked in — the bed was empty. Now that’s right odd. Where’d they go, this late at night?

As The Kid carefully made her way down the corridor, it became clear that the voices she’d heard were coming from Clementine’s room. Still sensing danger, she moved cautiously.

Placing her ear against the bedroom door, the Kid heard Mimi say, “I think Arabella likes to have fun the same way we do, Ma.”

It was only then that The Kid gave thought to the fact she was nude. Thinking before only about protecting Arabella, she hadn’t bothered with dressing.

Then Susie spoke. “That’s right, Ma, she loved being naked with us. We were just about to play some, but then you called up the stairs and we had to quit.”

“I’m sorry if I spoiled your fun, girls,” Clementine said, “but I don’t think it would be safe to do anything with her just yet. Not with a guest in the house. Besides, Arabella has been through a lot. I think she needs time to get used to her new life with us.”

“Aw, Ma.” Susie said. “She wants to! Honest, she does!”

“Now don’t you pout, Olivia Susan,” Clementine said, “We can play a little bit, just the three of us.”

Nothing was said after that, so The Kid hunkered down and looked through the keyhole. The oil lamp was turned low, but it was easy to see the mother and her daughters standing in front of the bed. Clementine’s hair was down, and so was Mimi’s. The Kid loved how long and lustrous it was.

Then The Kid’s eyes widened as she saw Susie take hold of the sash that held Clementine’s robe closed and give it a pull. The robe fell open, then Mimi and Susie each took a side and pushed it off their mother’s shoulders. It slid to the floor, and Clementine stood naked in front of her daughters.

Relieved there was no danger, The Kid was also extremely aroused by the sight. That Clementine is a true beauty, she thought. Clementine’s breasts were heavy and large, but held their shape well. Her nipples were standing erect and proud as each of the girls took one in her mouth.

While the girls suckled their mother, the Kid admired the thick triangle of pubic hair that nestled between Clementine’s legs. Legs that were shapely and strong. Her arousal grew sharper still as she saw Susie slip a hand between her mother’s thighs and caress her slit.

With a gasp, Clementine nudged the girls away from her. “You two get undressed, now.” She seated herself on the bed while the girls faced her — their backs toward The Kid, whose cunt was now very wet as she continued to watch. Without thinking she began to tease her sex with a fingertip.

As The Kid began to masturbate for real, Mimi and Susie slipped out of their nightgowns, letting them drop to the floor, revealing the girls’ flawless bottoms. My Lord, those are two of the nicest little butts I ever did see, The Kid thought. They were both delightfully different, though. Susie’s behind was taut and firm, Mimi’s more rounded and soft looking. The Kid plunged a finger deep into herself, imagining what it would be like to kiss those beautiful bottoms. Or lick them, she thought.

Clementine and her daughters were all swapping kisses now, and the room was lit just brightly enough for The Kid to see their tongues flickering back and forth as she fucked herself, hard and fast, her eye fastened to the keyhole.

Breaking an impassioned kiss with Mimi, Clementine turned to her youngest and said, “Susie dearest, you lick me, then I’ll take care of you.” Looking back at Mimi, she murmured, “I’ll take care of you right now, sweetheart.”

An awed Kid watched as Clementine lay back with her feet on the floor and legs spread. Mimi got on the bed and positioned herself so her sex opening was over her mother’s face. The older girl was staring at her little sister Susie, who had just knelt on the floor between Clementine’s legs.

Hot as the sight was, The Kid was beginning to feel stirrings of guilt for spying on her hostess and her little girls. It ain’t mannerly, she scolded herself. These folks have been mighty kind to you. Best to go back to bed, let ‘em have their privacy.

The Kid quietly rose, then padded back to Susie’s room and carefully closed the door. Holstering her gun, she studied Arabella’s angelic face.

Slipping back into the bedroll, The Kid began to masturbate, thinking of what she’d seen and heard. Mother and daughters, bare naked and making love. Mimi sitting on her mother’s face. Susie’s backside, wriggling as she licked her ma’s cunt. The way Susie had stared at The Kid in the bath house, the excitement she’d heard in the girls’ voices as they discussed Arabella’s nudity, that incredible view of Susie’s and Mimi’s bare behinds…

The Kid’s breath hissed through her clenched teeth as she rubbed herself to an intense climax, one that left her panting for a few moments.

Finally able to relax, The Kid soon fell asleep, assured that Arabella would be happy in her new home.

*****

That same evening found Frank Sims sitting in Ramses Kingsley’s office. They were both drinking. Kingsley smoked a cigar while Sims stared glumly at his half-full glass.

“They got some hard evidence on you, Frank.” Kingsley said calmly. “They had to show it to my lawyer before he took the case.” He paused, brooded. “Bad luck that the little girl happened to take one of those arrows with her, when she got away.”

He took a sip of his drink before adding, “Then, that damned Tequila Kid found out you’d had them made here in town.”

Suddenly, Sims downed his drink in a gulp, then said, “Damn it, Ramses. I’m gonna hang, ain’t I?” Reaching for the bottle on Kingsley’s desk, he immediately refilled his glass.

“Now, now, Frank,” Kingsley said in a soothing tone. Taking a long pull on his cigar, he casually blew a smoke ring, then added, “I still think Finch can get you off the hook. He’s a damn good lawyer with no conscience, except for getting his wallet filled.”

Emptying his glass again, Sims set it down on the desk with a loud clunk. Kingsley frowned, but didn’t speak. Sims slopped more whiskey into the glass, then took a hefty slug. “And if he don’t, I’m a dead man.” His face was sweaty and pale.

“Well, Frank.” said Kingsley. “I won’t take it hard if you skip town, even if I lose my thousand dollars.” He stared at the glowing tip of his cigar. “Seems to me, though, that all the evidence they have against you is circumstantial.”

Sims took another swallow of his drink as Kingsley continued, “The entirety of their case is wrapped up in that eyewitness. The little Hodgekiss girl. Out of all of us, the one she remembered was you.” He shrugged. “Easy to see why, Frank. Precious few men have a build like yours.”

Sims drained his glass, then slammed it down on the desk again. “That little bitch has gotta die,” he growled.

“You are correct, Frank.” Kingsley said as he refilled the glass, peering to see if Sims had dented the fine veneer on his desktop. “You get that done, and they won’t have a prayer of convicting you.”

Sims looked at Kingsley, a familiar glint in his eyes. “You mean I’m right, then?” he asked, surprised that he should be right about anything. “That I should kill her. Hmm.” Stroking his chin with his left hand, the big man tried to focus. He worked the fingers on his huge right hand like he was squeezing something.

Kingsley leaned forward in his seat. “Just make it look like an accident.”

“How?” Sims asked.

Kingsley folded his hands on the desk. “Think about it, Frank. Children always risk danger. She might fall down a well, get trampled by a horse. Hell, she could simply stumble and hit her head on a big rock. It’s downright tragic, all the accidents that could befall a little girl.” He gave Sims an oily smile. “All you have to do, Frank, is give fate a helping hand.” He reached for the bottle, which by now only had an inch remaining, and emptied it into Sims’ glass.

Sims downed it immediately. Slowly rising to his feet, he smiled. “Good night, Ramses. Think I’ll take me a ride to clear my head.”

Kingsley stood, nodded. “You do that.” He extended his hand. “Good luck.”

Sims briefly clasped it, then turned and moved toward the door in his heavy stride, pausing to take his hat from the peg and clap it on his head before exiting.

Staring thoughtfully at the closed door, Kingsley strode around to the front of his desk, frowning as he gazed down at the dark mahogany top. Sure enough, Sims had left marks in the finish. Whipping out his handkerchief, a scowling Kingsley rubbed at the gleaming surface.

Yes, have a good ride, Frank. Straight to hell.

On to Chapter Ten!