The sound of voices shouting from the street carried into the saloon and was soon followed by the infectious whispering of gossip that spread among its patrons like wild fire.  Eve, still entangled within the arms of a young cowboy, turned in time to watch as Lola returned.  Looking up into the warm eyes of the man capturing her desire, she smiled raising her hand to cup his stubble marked chin. Her honey brown eyes quietly promised her return before whispering her apologies and slipping from his hold for the second time that evening.<br/><br/>Eve’s brown eyes tracked Lola, taking in her friend’s defensive stature. The look of despair that was hidden in Lola’s dark brown orbs spoke of sadness, yet there was a fire that burned bright, one that refused to give into the nights unjust events.<strong>”Lola…”</strong>Eve called out softly, offering a comforting hand for her friend to hold. Words were not required to show Eve’s concern, or to provide proof of her undeniable loyalty to the stunning brunette.  Over the years they had grown as close as two women could become. They were stronger than sisters, feeding off each other’s strengths, supporting the dream of making Lola’s a success.<br/><br/>The two women shared a silent communication, each understanding the need to make a show of strength to the town, more so now than ever before. They might have had their confidence shaken, but any doubts would have to be hidden on the inside. A show of weakness now would surely tighten the noose around their neck. Now was a time for steely determination.  The silent exchange was brief but effective; they wouldn’t allow the gathering storm clouds to sweep Lola’s away into the hands of those who did not deserve it.<br/><br/>The storm continued to twist as the accusations of Jackson’s betrayal gathered steam. The lies were piling up; building a mountain that pulsed like a beast waiting to strike. With every turn there seemed to be more vultures and thieves ready to strike, to snatch what Lola, along with the help of Eve, had worked so hard to achieve.  Eve looked towards Lola, smiling at the other woman’s strength, watching with admiration as she walked the room doing what Lola did best. It was clear to all that the proprietor of the best saloon in Silver City was still very much in charge.<br/><br/>Evelyn slipped quietly out of the saloon in order to take a moment to herself. She moved swiftly along the dusty street, wrapping her arms around her torso, chilled by the hateful atmosphere that hung thick like an abomination in the night air. She paused only long enough to watch the man standing in the doorway of the sheriff’s office, shivering at his smug stance and obvious showing of power. Shaking her head in despair, Eve turned towards the dark alley that trailed between the buildings to rest upon the rough wood.  The beautiful blonde closed her eyes, releasing a sigh that confessed the distressing emotions that flooded her mind. For the first time Eve wondered if she would be strong enough to be able to support Lola in the fight that was surely coming, if not had already arrived upon their doorstep.<br/>