The woman studied him for a long moment. "Camille is gone. Headed south. I helped her escape. If she's important to you then find her and make her happy. If Bill Burns gets ahold of her, he'll kill her this time."
"I don't understand. Why did Billy Charles bring her here? Is she related to people here?"
The woman nodded. "Unfortunately. She's my niece. Was married to Bill Burns’ son. Ran off years ago. Probably doesn't even know the boy is dead now. He got killed in a shootout with lawmen just outside Silver City." The woman's dull gaze honed in on his star but she did not say anything else.
Married. Lucas could only stare at the woman, realizing who exactly Camille's husband had been. He'd shot and killed several of the outlaws during the shootout near Silver City. One of the dead had been a Burns. He'd killed Camille's husband.
"Thank you." He turned on his heel and rushed back to where Brogan stood with the horses.
Brogan kept watch, his gaze scanning the surroundings. "I need to go back to Silver City."
The implication was clear. Brogan knew Lucas would keep searching for Camille.
"She is alone and probably frightened. I have to go after her." Lucas was torn. He didn't want Brogan heading to danger alone. "What do you plan to do?"
"Don't worry about that. Go on find her and bring her back home."
Moments later, the men headed in opposite directions, each with a grim determination and knowledge things were about to change drastically.
Chapter Nine
Dust rose, creating a cloud around Silver City. The wind had picked up considerably, blowing across the area as Bill Burns and his son looked down from a nearby hill. "Don't see much commotion yet," Bill grumbled, wondering what took the men he'd sent so long to find the lawmen.
"Lots of people about," Billy Charles commented while fidgeting with the horse's reins. "They got lots of candy at that mercantile."
Bill reached over and smacked him on the head. "Yer not going to the mercantile. Don't even think about it. Once we leave the bank, hightail it back home. You understand?"
Billy Charles rubbed at his head and nodded. "I know Pa. I was just talkin' to talk."
Two shots rang out and people scrambled towards buildings. A grin etched across Bill Burns' face. "Let's go."
They rode to the bank, bringing the horses to the side of the building. Bill listened for more shots and, moments later, one single shot sounded. Once again, several people ran past and Bill pulled Billy Charles' shoulder. "Come on, let's go."
The front of the bank was empty as expected. What he didn't expect was for the door to be bolted shut. Bill Burns went up to the window and peered in. The bank was empty.
Damn it. He'd not counted on the bank folks locking up at hearing a commotion. Now that he thought about it, it made sense. Not a big problem. If the men he'd hired killed the sheriff and brought him McKade, he'd just have to pay up from his own money.
A shot sounded, followed by ringing in his ears.
"Pa!" Billy Charles screamed.
Bill Burns turned to find him lying on the ground gasping for breath. His eldest son held both hands around his neck while blood poured out between the fingers. His mouth gaped open and closed as his wild eyes searched in vain for help.
"What the hell?" Bill Burns took a step towards Billy Charles only to stumble backwards when another shot sounded and a fiery sensation entered his chest. He fell to his knees and looked across the way to meet Raymond Childs’ flat eyes. "Why?" he screamed out.
"Let's say I owe the Scotsman a favor. He gets killed, I end up hung."
Before Bill Burns could lift his gun, two additional shots rang out and he toppled sideways onto the ground, his dead eyes meeting his son's.
Billy Charles died minutes later, one hand outstretched to his father. The simple man never realized how much the man disliked having him as a son.
"The sheriff's coming!"
Brogan raced in to town, bringing his horse to a stop at seeing two dead men and Raymond Childs and another man standing nearby, both with guns holstered. He dismounted and glanced at the dead men. One was Bill Burns, the other had to be the son.
He looked up to the burly, bearded man who returned his gaze. "You hoping to get a reward?"
Childs chuckled without mirth. "Doubt they'd pay it, being it's probably the same as the price on my own head."
Suspecting the other man was also an outlaw, Brogan did not expect introductions. "I am indebted to you."
"I'd say it makes us almost even," Childs replied. "You kept me from getting hung, so I'd say you are still one up on me."
"I don't believe in an innocent man being killed," Brogan replied. "Have you found out anything?"
Raymond shook his head. "It's almost as if the bastard vanished into thin air. Fell into a hole or something. Been all over, searched everywhere. No one's seen or heard from him. I'm beginning to think he's dead."
"Even if you find him, he’ll never confess to killing your wife. You should..." Brogan was about to say give up, but then thought of Sarah. If someone harmed her, he'd never give up. Never stop searching for whoever it was and wouldn't rest until seeing the person die.
"I'll see you around, Sheriff." Raymond Childs and his friend walked away while Brogan watched.
"Why didn't you arrest them, Sheriff?" A man came up and looked at the departing men. "We all saw them kill these two."
"The dead men are outlaws. They came to rob the bank."
The man blinked and stared down at the bodies. "Well, goodness gracious. What is the world coming to?"
With the danger at bay, Brogan considered if he should send help for Lucas and whatever happened with Camille.
It was probably of little use. There was no possible way to catch up to Lucas now. It was sundown and he decided it was best to go and let Sarah know of what happened. Surely his fiancée was worried about him and about what happened to her friend.
Knowing Lucas, he'd not stop despite nightfall. The man would not rest until finding Camille. Although Lucas had not said anything, it was obvious his friend was in love with the woman.
As Brogan watched men load the bodies of Bill Burns and his son, he could only surmise neither would be mourned much.
He headed to the opposite end of town to see his soon to be bride. Hopefully, in another day or two, Lucas would return with Camille.
****
As the sun fell behind the horizon, its rays continued to reach up toward the now darkening space of the sky. Lucas let out a breath and scanned the surroundings. Camille could be anywhere. Alone and no doubt afraid, he hated to think of what she was going through at the moment. It would be too dangerous for her to light a fire to keep warm by, so she was probably huddled somewhere attempting to keep warm.
The horse snorted and its ears twitching as it looked to the left. The animal had either heard or smelled something. Lucas pulled the animal to a stop and listened intently. Very softly at first, but then he heard what sounded like the breaking of branches. He pulled his steed to stand behind a copse of trees and dismounted. After tethering the horse, he went toward the noise on foot. It was becoming dark and soon he'd not be able to see much.
Whatever made the noise stopped and he cursed inwardly, unable to decipher where the sounds had come from. Once again, he remained still listening for any sounds. Finally, he heard it again. This time, the sound was moving away from him. As quickly as possible, he went in the direction of the sound ensuring not to make any noise.
Someone had placed a log up against others forming a type of shelter. He watched as the outline of the person disappeared into the shelter. If he'd not seen him or her go into the shelter, he'd probably have ridden without seeing or noticing anything.
He listened once again for more noise and when it stayed silent, he moved closer. Just as he reached the shelter, he heard sobs.
It was a woman. Could it be possible that he'd stumbled upon Camille?
He crouched down and attempted to peer i
nto the shelter, but whoever was in the shelter was proficient and had covered both sides.
"Camille?” he whispered. "Is that you, sweetheart?"
"Lucas?"
There was scrambling and then a figure, dressed in britches with long, loosed hair, scampered to him. Camille threw her arms around his neck and began crying so hard her entire body shook. "I was so scared," she told him. "I am so cold and hungry."
He smiled despite her state. She felt wonderful in his arms. Unharmed and, although upset, she seemed to be in good health. When she trembled, he hugged her tight. "You're safe. I've got you, darling. Don't cry please."
He held her for a long time, comforting her while stroking her hair, allowing her time to settle and calm down.
Finally, she took a shaky breath and loosened her grip on him. "Are you sure someone didn't follow you?"
"No one's been following me at all. I'm positive."
Her wide eyes met his. "How did you find me so soon?"
"I couldn't stand the thought of you out here alone. I suppose desperation helped. Your aunt, she told me the general direction you went."
"Oh Lucas." Once again, she clung to him with her face hidden in his shirt. "I am so happy to see you. The thought of never seeing you again tore at me."
They would talk eventually, discuss the notes she'd written and what it meant. For now, he'd let it pass and bask in the fact his woman was safe and sound.
"There's a small town not too far. Let's get you some food and a warm bath.” He lifted her onto his arms and carried her back to the horse.
Less than two hours later, they settled into a small room in a small inn. The woman who let rooms had ensured they ate well and although she kept stealing glances at Camille, refrained from asking why she was dressed so oddly and about the bruising on her face. Instead, she seemed reassured by Lucas' badge and concentrated on feeding them and drawing a bath for Camille.
"I can send my son to come and empty the tub later," the woman told Lucas.
"No need. Just leave it. My wife and I are very tired. Once we wash up, we plan to promptly go to bed."
"Very well," the woman replied with a smile.
Camille was so tired, she didn't resist him undressing her and lowering her into the hot water. She let out a happy sigh and her head lolled to the side of the tub. "This is heavenly."
He smiled down at the woman who had no idea what a beautiful picture she presented. "Do you need help washing up?"
When her eyes met his, there was warmth. "Join me. I'm sure you'll enjoy the water."
Not a fool, he undressed and slid into the tub behind her. She fit perfectly between his legs. Lucas pulled her back against him, careful not to move too much since the water threatened to spill over.
"Did Burns hit you?"
She reached up and touched her jaw. "Yes, he is a cruel man. I have to explain..."
"Not tonight, love. We'll talk tomorrow. It will take us into the night to reach Silver City."
Camille was quiet and he did not ask what she thought. He had an idea. But taking his own advice, Lucas decided not to delve into what her reasons were.
Taking the bar of soap that was left beside the tub with both hands, he began washing her hair. Once he was satisfied it was all soaped up, he slid the bar down the front of her body, his hands sliding over her generous breasts giving each attention. She fidgeted; her bottom enticing against his erection.
Camille’s head fell back against his shoulder when he continued his ministrations down past the soft swell of her stomach to between her legs. The apex promised so much and he couldn't resist caressing, touching.
A gasp was followed by a throaty moan. Camille twisted to face him and took his mouth with hers. She pulled the soap from his hands and began lathering his hair. She moved back and smiled at him. "You are most handsome, Lucas."
"I'm glad you think so," Lucas replied dunking to rinse the suds. Camille chuckled. "There is too much soap in here to rinse clean, I'm afraid." She went to move away, but he pulled her against him, taking her lips with hunger.
He wanted her, but more than that, he needed her. The craving was soul deep. Never had he ever felt so overcome with not just want, but appreciation, to be able to hold this woman in his arms.
Camille relaxed against him, her fingers raking through his hair. His hands slid down her back to cup her bottom and pull her closer.
Water sloshed over the edge, the splashing sound seeming loud. "Oh, dear." Camille looked at the floor. "We're making a mess."
Lucas stood from the water and climbed out. "Stand up."
For a long moment, she seemed enthralled by the evidence of his arousal and, damn, didn't that just make him even harder.
Once she stood, he retrieved the water pitcher and poured clean water over her hair. Finally, he leaned over the tub and did the same to his. Satisfied both were rinsed, he retrieved a towel and helped her from the tub.
Wrapped in the large cloth, Camille leaned against him and pulled it around them both. "I still cannot believe this is real."
"It is very real, Camille." Lucas lifted her and carried her to the bed and pulled the cloth from her luscious body. Her gaze followed him as he neared and she licked her lips. Entranced.
Camille could not think clearly. Without touching her, Lucas consumed her, filled her mind, body and soul to the point it was impossible to form a cohesive thought at the moment.
His manhood was engorged, thick and jutting out from between his legs. An impressive display of how much he wanted her at the moment. She could only lay on the bed, unable to move as her entire body quivered in expectation of taking him in.
The bed dipped from his weight and he hovered over her. She grabbed at his shoulders to urge him closer. That his hard, muscular body would cover her in a moment brought a moan. It was almost impossible to keep from making a fool of herself by drawing him to enter her right away. "I can't wait, Lucas. Don't make me wait."
His nod was brisk, almost as if relieved and he took his length in hand and guided it to her core.
Camille slid her legs wider and he prodded at her entrance, the bulbous head stretching her, making way for his sex. She let out a breath and looked up to find his gaze locked on her face. His darkened blue eyes were so intense her breath left. Her mouth fell open with the words left unspoken as he thrust into her with so much force she cried out. "Oh!"
Her fingers dug into his back as he dove into her over and over again, pulling out almost completely before thrusting back inside in fluid motions.
Unable to keep from it, she wrapped her legs around his hips to take him even deeper. Lucas pushed his face into the crook of her neck, his mouth kissing and nipping at her throat as he continued moving, thrust after thrust, until Camille lost all sense of control.
She'd climbed so high that it was uncertain how long the fall would be. When he took her bottom in hand and lifted her to pound into her, she let go and fell, her cries silenced by his mouth over hers. Darkness was broken by sparkling stars as she floated. He moved just twice more before his body began to shake as he, too, found release.
It wasn't clear how much later, but she woke to the soft sounds of Lucas’ deep breathing. Entangled around each other, they'd fallen into an exhausted sleep. She reached for the blankets and pulled them up over both of them and then, unable to resist, once again fell asleep.
At the sound of his own moan, Lucas blinked and woke to see morning had come. And what a perfect way to wake; he was fully erect, not only that but a soft hand stroked his length. The vixen kissed his throat, her hot mouth sending trails of want through his body.
He pulled Camille over him and was pleasantly surprised when she guided him to her already heated sex. Holding her hips, he took the woman until both climaxed.
The innkeeper kept stealing glances at them. Camille wasn't sure what to think. There was no doubt the woman had overheard their lovemaking. A part of her was mortified, yet at the same time, she loved Lucas so much it
didn't matter to Camille who knew they'd made love not just the night before, but once again upon waking.
"The food is delicious. Thank you so much," Camille said, eating the last bites of the flavorful bread.
"May we purchase some food for our travel today?" Lucas asked and the woman preened.
"Of course." Her gaze met Camille's. "Thank you for the compliments. It’s not often people come through here lately and even less often that I get to watch someone enjoy my cooking so much.” The woman went to the stove. "I'll pack you up a good meal. Just give me a few moments."
Camille had braided her hair and changed into a dress she'd purchased from the woman. Although a bit big on her, it was not as uncomfortable as wearing the men's clothing. Her change in outfit seemed to make the woman more comfortable.
They mounted their horses later that morning and headed northeast toward Silver City. Camille could barely tear her eyes away from Lucas. He was devastatingly handsome and could never be hers.
Each time she considered living once again in Silver City, seeing him every day, she could not stop from worrying about how he'd take the news she was related to Burns by marriage.
Camille cleared her throat. "We need to talk." She slid a look at Lucas who gave her a questioning one in return.
"When a woman says that, it usually means something serious. I'm listening."
Her timing was wrong, or perhaps perfect, either way, they had an entire day and part of a night to converse. She let out a breath. "I was married to Bill Burns' son, Timothy Burns."
Lucas kept his gaze forward. "Go on."
In spite of knowing he would not want anything to do with her after this, she had to be honest. The truth always came out. He'd want to know why she'd been taken.
"My husband is dead. I just found out. Billy Charles, the man that took me, is the eldest brother. He happened to see me when coming to Silver City. I think he was looking for information about you."
Forbidden Kisses Page 37
