Late for Dinner
The table was laid, and the sun had set.
It wasn't like Denver, to forget.
It was becoming obvious, he wouldn't be returning.
He rushed off to fetch Petra, hoping they were nearing an understanding.
Missy had dressed in her favourite red gown.
Disappointed, she looked in the mirror with a frown.
There was a knock on the door, the guest of honour was here.
She went to the door, this wasn't going to be easy, no matter the provocation, she had to remain sincere.
She opened the door, and there she stood a Caucasian woman, with a beauty and grace, rarely seen in the wilds of the west.
Welcome Talulah, please take a seat, it was like an aging beauty contest.
Before she was seated, the rage was building inside, like a volcano ready to explode.
I don't wish to be rude Missy, but where has Two-Face decided to hide?
Ignoring the slight, she enquired if Talulah had children of her own.
Without reply, she explained briefly, their dilemma with Petra and how Denver rushed into town.
It may be, that the subject of children hit a soft spot, but her retort was sharp and to the point.
I've had hundreds, most of whom have been saved from a life of slavery, what's your point?
It was obvious why Denver had a blind spot for this woman, for like him, she exhibited the ability to transform her bad into good.
For most of us two plus two equals four, but for them the lesser of two evils equals good.
Missy decided to play her at her own game, asking, why don't we see this as an opportunity?
But Talulah was right on her game and replied, I agree, why don't we make being straight with each other, the opportunity?
Recognising Talulah was an equal match, she began to smile, that turned into laughter.
Talulah persisted with her grimace until she was overcome and soon the Cabin was resonating with the sound of their laughter.
From now on, the wine and the honesty ran free.
It seemed an impossibility, but they shared the secrets of their addiction for this frustrating man, from whom they did not desire to be free.
Missy confirm what Talulah suspected, that he knew all about the trick she played on the bridge.
However, even she was surprised to find, this only fueled Denver's admiration, who else would dare fire a Buffalo Gun, behind him on the bridge?
Even more to her surprise, if his suspicions were correct, of which he had no doubt, he did not wish to be involved.
Further to this, he wanted her to consider a joint finance free partnership in the Liberty Belle, in which just you and he would be involved.
The night ended well, Talulah returned to her cabin, surprised not only by Denver's offer, a sign of good faith but by her warm feelings for a woman, whom she'd always detested.
Her first instinct was to grab the offer with both hands, a thought she instantly repelled and detested.
What was happening to her, why this sudden emotional turmoil?
Then she realised, could she face the other woman, day after day, how could she resolve this turmoil?
Missy was soon asleep, trusting in Denver's safe return as she'd always done.
She awoke with a start, had received a warning that Denver was in danger, something had to be done.
A warning from Shadow, no doubt, she was soon dressed and out the door.
She called Conan for helpbut could not wait and flew to the Black Diamond Forge and kicked open the door.
YOU ARE READING
Busted Gulch vol 10
AdventureThe town is growing, and with the increase wealth an unsavory element have been attract to BG. The Jail and bank have already met with tragedy. Now the culprits are on the loose. It's up to Billy, 3Gun and Justice to cook these bad guys goose. A co...