Love On The Frontier (A Bounty Hunter's Tale) Book I

Chapter Sixteen | Heart Ache *Mature*

'I Don't Love You'

New Mexico 1873

Clayton made sure to keep his distance from Lena. Not because he was angry with her, but because he needed a break. The girl was too much for him to tolerate is such long doses.

Lena was fast asleep in the full-sized bed while he leaned against the windowsill, monitoring the bed-house in which the bandits resided. Two days had passed by and the bandits still had not left town as he expected. They seem to no longer be in a rush. Something must have changed and he needed to find out. Clayton looked over his shoulder at Lena one last time before heading out the door.

Once inside the lobby of the hotel across from the bed-house, he approached the front desk clerk. "Howdy," he greeted the man as he leaned against the countertop.

"What can I do for you, sir?"

He lowered his voice before discreetly sliding the man a couple silver dollars. "I need a favor," he said.

The clerk's eyes darted around the lobby. He accepted the money and asked, "How may I be of service, sir?"

Often places such as these were more connected then one would think. Many times the owner would manage both the bed-house, hotel, and the general store.

"Can you provide me with the whereabouts of a man named Ned Hamilton," he inquired. The clerks eyes widened. It was obvious that the clerk knew exactly who Ned was--then again who did not?

The clerk promptly slid the money back. "I apologize, but I have no information on the man."

Clayton narrowed his eyes and said, "Is that so?" 

"Is there anything else I may help you with?" He understood the clerks hesitation. Ned and The Ruffians were extremely dangerous, however, Clayton was not someone to underestimate either. 

"Here's my problem..." He looked at his named tag. "Albert. I need you to know who Ned Hamilton. In fact I know you know who he is. You will keep an eye out on that bed-house right there from now until morning. I will come here early tomorrow and you will tell me all that our buddy Ned has been up to."

"Sir," The man began to sweat. "I-I cannot do what you ask me of me. I--"

"You must've misunderstood me. I'm not asking you. I'm tellin' you." Clayton slid the clerk one more silver. "I'm trying to be nice here instead of breaking a bone or two."

With a shaky hand the clerk accepted the money. "Of course, sir. I'll have a report tomorrow morning."

"Good."

"Mr. Cliff?" He heard a voice call, but he did not respond. He had forgotten that the name Cliff was his current alias. "Mr. Cliff, is that you?"

"Sir, I think that lady there is calling for you," The clerk pointed behind him.

Clayton turned around to see the beautiful red-headed. She sauntered over in a purple evening gown that accentuated her bust and hips. Her red hair was pilled on top of her head and twisted into an elegant up-do. Not sure what type of event called for such an elaborate outfit, but he enjoyed the dress all the same.

"Mr. Cliff, are you ignoring me?" She teased.

"Of course not, Lady Sharpton. I was actually just looking for you."

She snapped open her fan and gracefully fluttered it, drawing attention to her bosom. "Is that so? What ever for?"

He moved to stand before. "May I speak boldy?"