<strong>~ Carmen at the General Store talking with Guinevera Starr | Day 2, early afternoon ~</strong><br/><br/><strong>"Thank you, Miss Stevens."</strong><br/><br/>Stifling a quiet chuckle at Guinevera’s tendency to still address her so formally after all their years of knowing each other, Carmen slid her arm around Guinevera’s to act as escort when the woman gestured for them to step outside to talk. The madame was well versed in - and made good use of - all the societal niceties that Carmen so enthusiastically shunned, which Carmen found endearingly amusing. However, even after all the scrapes she’d gotten herself into over the years, Guenevera still showed her warmth and respect whenever she came to town. Yes, Guinevera Starr was certainly one special lady.<br/><br/>Outside, the two women stood comfortably together in the shade of the covered porch, enjoying a few moments of catching up. Carmen was glad to hear all was well at the Seguaro, but she wasn’t surprised. The place was a mighty popular draw for any and all who passed through town, and for most of the locals as well. She suspected it would do well no matter what, even if all the other businesses in town went belly-up.<br/><br/><strong>”How about you and your brother? How's the ranch these days?"</strong><br/><br/>Rolling her eyes dramatically, Carmen shook her head in exasperation. “You know Rand - he’s the hardest working man I know! He’s like to work us all to death out at Sweetwater, iff’n he had his way!” Carmen knew Guinevera was well acquainted with her brother and wouldn’t take her complaints too seriously.  And besides, she felt comfortable letting off a little steam now and again with the madame. After all, Guinevera was known for being a good listener with an understanding disposition.<br/><br/>“What about you, Guinevera? Any new prospects you’ve set your sights on?”<br/>