Lola's  - IC (retired)
<h1 id="title">Elliquiy Role Playing Forums</h1>
		<h2 id="linktree">Play-By-Post: Light =&gt; Light: Human Small Groups =&gt; Topic started by: Miss Lilly on 26-12-2011, 10:28:09</h2>
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				Title: <strong>Lola's  - IC (retired)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Miss Lilly</strong> on <strong>26-12-2011, 10:28:09</strong>
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				<div align="center">(http://i132.photobucket.com/albums/q15/doogieporker/Lolas-1.gif)</div><br><div class="floatright">(http://www.readthesmiths.com/articles/Images/Entertainment/Idol/Katharine.jpg)</div>"One whiskey, neat, comin' right up!"<br><br>Lola watched her barman do his thing from the interior balcony that ran around three sides of her saloon, nodding approvingly. Business was good these days.&nbsp; The reputation that the diminutive woman had been working on for years was now finally paying off.&nbsp; It was no easy thing for a woman to own her own saloon out here in the west.&nbsp; And although most of her patrons thought highly of her and her girls, there was certainly a proportion of her customers who would take advantage of a woman without thinking twice about it.&nbsp; She'd learned the hard way to trust nothing and no one, except herself.&nbsp; It made for a rather lonely existence at times, but she took solace in the little 'family' that she had here.&nbsp; Most of her girls would have wound up as whores, or worse, had she not taken them in, schooled them, and given them jobs in the saloon.<br><br>And they all learned their lessons well.&nbsp; <em>Lola's</em> was well renowned for having not just the best whiskey in town, but the best saloon girls as well.&nbsp; They were well groomed, well dressed, and well read.&nbsp; Lola insisted on this.&nbsp; Her patrons were not the usual low lifes that haunted most of the other establishments in town.&nbsp; They came here not just for the drinking and the attention from pretty girls, but for conversation as well.&nbsp; Many a business deal had been brokered in the plush booths that nestled around the walls of the dance floor.&nbsp; And if those walls could talk!&nbsp; Well...there'd be more than one scandal in town.&nbsp; That's not to say that <em>Lola's</em> was only for the toffee noses, however.&nbsp; Everyone was welcome, as long as they behaved themselves, and as far as Lola had always been concerned, everyone was equal once they stepped through her door.&nbsp; The money of a miner was as good as the money of an alderman.&nbsp; And surprisingly, his manners were often better.<br><br>A familiar sashay caught the brunette's eye.&nbsp; She smiled as Layla, one of the newer girls, worked the room.&nbsp; Although still not what could be considered 'experienced' in the industry, Layla was a fast learner, and was quickly becoming one of her most popular girls. Tall, with long light brown hair and the most amazing blue eyes, her dance card was full to the brim most nights, and it was a rare occasion that she couldn't get the gentlemen to spend more at the bar than they likely intended to.&nbsp; Or to return the next night to do the same.<br><br>Deciding that it was time she put in her nightly appearance, Lola smoothed her red satin gown, flicked her long brown curls over her shoulder, and descended regally down the staircase to the bustling bar below.&nbsp; Spontaneous applause broke out, as was usual, and calls of "Lola!" from a number of her regular customers had the corners of her crimson lips curling upwards.&nbsp; Slowly making her way through the crowd, she smiled and laughed, and stoked ego's as she went.&nbsp; Making her customers think that they were the most important person in the world was the best way to loosen their purse strings, and Lola had a gift for making each and every one of them feel special.<br><br>Reaching the bar at last, she climbed a top it, enlisting the help of two of her regulars to do so.&nbsp; Every face turned in her direction, expectation filling the room.&nbsp; A quick nod to her pianist, and she burst into a rendition of <em>Clementine</em>, which had everyone singing along by the second verse.&nbsp; It was a nightly tradition, and they loved it.&nbsp; The piano was completely drowned out as every voice in the bar joined in the singalong, the noise only exceeded by the enthusiastic clapping as the song came to an end.&nbsp; Shushing the ensuing hooting and whistling, Lola smiled around the room at the people who kept her business alive.<br><br>"The next round is on me!" she declared loudly.<br><br>It was another nightly tradition that was always met with loud cheering, and tonight was no different.&nbsp; Hopping down from the bar, Lola worked the room, politely declining the many drinks that were offered her.&nbsp; It was what kept many of them coming back....the hope that perhaps one day, Miss Lola would accept <strong>their</strong> offer of a drink.
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				Title: <strong>Re: Lola's (Lilly, Aemirys &amp; Rolo)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Rolo</strong> on <strong>27-12-2011, 18:18:05</strong>
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				Cresting the ridge south of town, Jackson's eyes see the sweet relief of Silver City laying out below him.&nbsp; The oil burning lights of the various saloons lighting the main road giving him an inviting call.&nbsp; The week trip from Carson was uneventful given the fact that he traveled through some of the most savage territory in the west.&nbsp; If you manage to avoid the wolves and the cougars you still have to keep a wary eye out for the blood thirsty Indians that are waring over the land.&nbsp; Sleeping with one eye open makes for exhausting travel and takes it's toll on his mental sharpness.&nbsp; Not generally how Jackson likes to be when getting into town, but he knows that he can get all the refuge he needs at Lola's.&nbsp; A smile crosses his lips at the thought of getting a weeks worth of trail dust off of him and possibly a little rub and tug before bed to assist in a long nights sleep.<br><br><em>The rough and rowdies are at it tonight</em>, he thinks to himself as he winds his way to the livery stable.&nbsp; A fresh faced kid comes running from the door and immediately takes the reins into control.&nbsp; "Put your horse up for you mister?"<br><br>Swinging his leg off the side of the horse, Jackson winks at the boy, "Yeah and give ol' Blue here a good rub down, and easy on the oats, don't want you spoiling him."&nbsp; Once standing on the ground he shakes the ride out of his legs and stretches his six foot two frame.&nbsp; Reaching into his vest pocket he flips a gold coin to the young lad and says, "Take my bed roll and saddle bags over to Lola's when you get a chance."<br><br>The boys face lights up, "THANKS, Mister!"<br><br>Jackson turns and heads for Lola's and some much need grub and drink.&nbsp; His boots make a sharp thump on the wooden walkways as he walks with a steady gait.&nbsp; Passing a window he catches a glimpse of himself and turns to make sure his jacket is square and his black hat with silver buckles is set just right.&nbsp; He pats some of the dust off of him before returning to his mission.&nbsp; Last check is to make sure that his trusted pearl handle six shooters are secure on his hips.&nbsp; <br><br>The roar of the crowd nearly knocks him over when he walks through the swinging doors to Lola's.&nbsp; <em>She has them revved up tonight,</em> he smirks to himself.&nbsp; He makes his way to the bar and gets the keeps attention, "Three fingers of whiskey," he commands as he flips another gold coin on the bar top.&nbsp; Turning to take in the crowd he sees all of Lola's beauties working the floor, dressed impeccably in all the plumage.<br>Returning his attention to the bartender when he delivers the drink, he drops a couple more coins on the bar and asks, "Think you could rustle me up a steak and a plate of beans?&nbsp; Also gonna need a room for a couple of nights.&nbsp; Give me one with a tub and an assistant," he says with a parting wink.<br><br>"Sure thing mister West," he hears over his shoulder as he makes his way to a corner booth that was surprisingly unoccupied.&nbsp; Sliding into the seat he postions himself where he can see the door and most of the patrons milling about, drinking and dancing.&nbsp; A habit that has kept him alive many a time.&nbsp; Jackson never looked for trouble, but somehow it always managed to find him.&nbsp; Part of the understanding why Lola allowed him to keep the six shooters at his side.&nbsp; Usually all guns were checked at the bar, but events from the past have proved it necessary for him to keep his on.
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				Title: <strong>Re: Lola's (Lilly, Aemirys, Breathless Intent &amp; Rolo)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Aemirys</strong> on <strong>29-12-2011, 08:38:11</strong>
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				<div class="floatleft">(http://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/5/52/Portrait%2Cg%2Cwoman-51521911daf03db5040dcb28b94ae27a_h.jpg)</div><br>Out of the corner of her vision Layla (http://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/5/52/Portrait%2Cg%2Cwoman-51521911daf03db5040dcb28b94ae27a_h.jpg) saw Jackson saunter into Lola's and order himself up a drink, three fingers of whiskey neat if she knew him and she knew Jackson alright. <br><br>He had always been a regular fixture since Layla had started working for Lola which was some four months now and he was one customer that she always enjoyed when he was in town. <br><br>Layla Harding had a dancer's lithe physique and she stood 5'11". With tumbling light brown hair that fell down to her waist she was attractive by most standards but it was her amazing green eyes that were flecked with amber and her stunning smile that caused most people to take notice of her. Behind those striking eyes lay a quick mind which she nearly always played down to her own advantage. She possessed a fierce and often stubborn personality that served to both indear her to people and also get her into trouble. There was more to Layla than met the eye although most would never even begin to see what lay there. <br><br>With a natural charm and grace that came to Layla without any conscious effort she wended her way through the crowd towards the bar to procure two whisky filled glasses and then continued on her way to the vacant booth which had now been claimed by the solitary, dusty traveller. <br><br>Quietly and unobtrusively she slid into the booth just as he was finishing off his first drink. With adroit skill that had been honed into her thanks to Lola's diligently tutelage, she arrayed the lustrous satin Verdi green dress around her to flatter and entice whilst still conveying a sense of ladylike propriety. Still maintaining the poise and grace that Lola expected and demanded of her girls Layla relaxed back into the plush cushions of the booth her demeanour one of affectionate companionship and succor.<br><br>"Tough trip?" she asked falling straight into conversation with him and handing him one of the glasses of whiskey she had in her possesion.<br><br>She was attentive to the needs and desires of all the patrons of Lola's and she prided herself in being able to accurately read what those needs were without having to ask. So it was with Jackson, she knew he would take a good few minutes to quietly unwind so she slowly sipped at her whisky, patiently waiting, attentive to his subtle cues.
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Lola's (Lilly, Aemirys, Breathless Intent &amp; Rolo)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mr Self Destruct</strong> on <strong>29-12-2011, 19:28:45</strong>
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				<div class="floatright">(http://i132.photobucket.com/albums/q15/doogieporker/HellOnWheels_300111107124928.jpg)</div>&nbsp; Desmond King pushed his way into the saloon, his dark eyes scanning the raucous crowd within.&nbsp; The place was rather full this evening, and the saloon's proprietor, Lola, was making her normal evening rounds, according to the reports of the eyes he'd hired within the town.&nbsp; He'd been increasing his influence in town for months now, hiring informants and spies to tell him everything he needed to know about who ran things, who was well liked, and who had enemies.<br><br>It was only a week prior that he'd subtly purchased the property that Lola's sat atop, becoming the sole owner of the ground quite literally beneath his feet.&nbsp; Certainly, it was an unscrupulous move, but it was the first step in taking over this growing little town, and making it his own.&nbsp; He had enough money to do so, as well, and all that stood in his way was the opposition he would no doubt face from the few folks in town who fancied themselves independent souls.<br><br>But they would all come to see the light.&nbsp; If they didn't, they would end up like the Apache bandits that had assaulted him earlier.&nbsp; He'd left them all with holes in their heads, just a few miles outside of town, their bodies now food for the desert critters that roamed the land.<br><br>He was tall, just over six feet in height, and broad of shoulder.&nbsp; His dark hair had only a few streams of silver in it, and the stubble that lined his jaw was only just growing silver.&nbsp; A thick mustache and goatee rounded out his chin, and his hair was worn long at the back, just touching his collar.&nbsp; He wore a dark shirt beneath a long, dark duster.&nbsp; His trousers were a faded grey, dusty from the road, and his leather boots were thick soled and adorned with a pair of sharp spurs at each heel.&nbsp; At his waist he wore two six-guns, with mother-of-pearl handles and well-oiled rotating chambers.&nbsp; His stance was that of a practiced gunman, and the rotation of his hips spoke of a man that had spent a good amount of his life in the saddle.<br><br>Moving to the bar, he leaned against it, folding his arms on the countertop.&nbsp; His gaze moved to Lola, and he watched her, waiting for her to come his way that he might make his presence, and his intentions, known.
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				Title: <strong>Re: Lola's (Lilly, Aemirys, Breathless Intent, Rolo &amp; Dark Clown)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Breathless Intent</strong> on <strong>30-12-2011, 13:00:24</strong>
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				A symphony of mundane saloon sounds provided a constant hum and rhythm in the common room. Clinking glasses, the thrum of shuffled cards, and of course the low rumble of male conversation highlighted by the intermittent soprano voices of the working girls. Dancing in time to this steady beat, a diminutive redhead &nbsp;(http://media-cdn.pinterest.com/upload/81275968244691737_JbGU1z5d_c.jpg)expertly navigated her way through the crowd with a tray of drinks in hand. Pausing at one of the occupied booths set against the back wall, she flashed a sparkling smile to the three men at the table, “Ok, now who ordered the whiskey?” The table erupted into a short burst of laughter as the smiling girl set a few glasses of rye and beer in front of the men. Taking up the remaining glass of “whiskey” (actually colored sugar water), she knocked back the contents of the glass and screwed up her delicate features as if she had actually forced down the vile whiskey usually served to the men. “Now that I’ve shown you all how its done, you let me know when you’ll be needing a second round.” Grinning, she winked to the table of men and sashayed off to attend to another booth. <br><br>As the hours ticked by, the effervescent saloon girl maintained the twinkle in her eye and cheerful smile that had elevated her to one of Lola’s most profitable assets. A year had passed since the innocent wide-eyed widow had wandered in and begged to be one of the saloon’s girls. The first few months were hard, and Lola had almost thrown her out on her ear a handful of times for being clumsy and dropping more drinks than she served. But, her saving grace was her smile and the uncanny ability to make any man feel like the center of her universe whenever she turned those dark blue eyes on him. It also didn’t hurt that the curvy little redhead made it a habit to memorize all she could about Lola’s patrons, making their experience that much more tailored with each visit. <br><br>She was sitting at the poker table with a handful of customers when Jackson walked in. Immediately her eyes were on him, watching the tall figure weave his way to the bar and order up…probably a bit of beans and steak, judging by the dust on him. Intending to intercept him, she politely excused herself from the table and started to make her way to the booth he had taken up. Unconsciously, her hands moved to smooth the emerald green taffeta of her dress over her hips and a tuck any stray auburn locks back in place. <br><br>Damn it all to hell! Apparently, Layla’s long legs had carried the giant of a woman over to him faster. Her azure gaze narrowed momentarily as she glared at the lovely blonde woman who had taken her place at Jackson’s side. Intent on weaseling her way into that booth anyway, she approached…only to be swept into the arms of a dancing cowboy. “Abby, darlin’ when are you gonna just say Yes?” Momentary surprise was pushed aside as Abigail met that familiar smile of one of her favorite customers. “Joseph, you know I couldn’t deny you a thing! Ask me tomorrow and I’m yours.” Abby’s tinkling laughter mingled with the piano music as Joseph twirled her around the dance floor. It was an exchange they had made countless times, Joseph always asking for her hand in marriage and Abby promising that tomorrow would be the fateful day. A few minutes later, Joseph had a fresh drink in his hand and had paid for yet another “whiskey” for Abby and, of course, the spin on the dance floor. Very little was free at Lola’s, including a dance. <br><br>With Joseph deposited at one of the gaming tables in the back, Abby once more set her sights on Jackson. She noticed that the plate of food he customarily ordered after a long trip was not at his table yet. Grinning in self-satisfaction, she approached the bar and smiled ever so sweetly at the barkeep, asking that her know when Jackson’s food was prepared. While she waited at the bar, another familiar figure darkened Lola’s door, Mr. King. The dark man sent a thrill through her, the power and money he had went far in terms of smoothing over some of the less than stellar aspects of his personality. Flashing him a cheery smile, Abby greeted him with a chipper “Evenin’, Mr. King” before taking up the steaming plate of steak and beans which had just been set before her. Excusing herself with a nod, she headed over to Jackson’s booth. <br><br>“Good to see you again, Jackson. I thought you might want something warm and fresh to heat you right on up.” The sparkling smile and sweet words did little to cover the intent of those words. And her very pointed effort not to look Layla’s way only served as further indication that Abby wanted Jackson to herself.
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				Title: <strong>Re: Lola's (Lilly, Aemirys, Breathless Intent, Rolo &amp; Dark Clown)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Miss Lilly</strong> on <strong>02-01-2012, 02:13:55</strong>
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				The sound of a familiar voice cut through the hum of activity in the saloon, catching Lola's attention.&nbsp; Glancing towards the source, her eyes fell on a very recognisable back.&nbsp; Smiling quietly to herself, she tried to return her focus to the customer who was currently doing his best to win her affections.&nbsp; It would do no good for him to think that she wasn't completely absorbed in his conversation. Still, it was hard to resist the urge to excuse herself and make a bee line for Jackson. But Lola was confident that he would be in town for a few days.&nbsp; He didn't usually just stay one night, and they would have a chance to catch up later.&nbsp; And besides...he was very popular with her girls, and would be well looked after.&nbsp; He didn't need her hovering, effectively cramping his style.<br><br>Out of the corner of her eye, Lola saw Layla slide into Jackson's booth, two glasses in hand, and at almost the same time, Abby was also headed in that direction.&nbsp; Lola frowned a little.&nbsp; The girls knew her policy on all customers being treated equal, and to have two of her best girls focussing on the same man at the same time was poor form, to say the least. Relieved when Joseph twirled the tiny woman away onto the dance floor, Lola smiled up at the patron in front of her.<br><br>"Harry, I'm sorry, but duty calls.&nbsp; Would you excuse me?"&nbsp; She flashed the man, a local shop owner, her best smile.&nbsp; Being a business owner himself, he understood the trials and tribulations of keeping customers happy.&nbsp; Giving his hand a friendly squeeze as he lifted hers to his lips, she gave him a good natured wink as she turned away.&nbsp; "You enjoy the rest of your evening, Harry.&nbsp; And don't forget to grace the dance floor with at least one my girls.&nbsp; You know how much they love dancing with you!"<br><br>Leaving a chuckling Harry looking very pleased with himself, Lola made her way toward Abby, who had collected Jackson's food order and was once again headed for his booth.&nbsp; She was well aware of the friction between Abby and Layla, and having them fighting over the attentions of a customer, no matter how charming, was a situation she most definitely wanted to avoid.&nbsp; <br><br>Before she could get to her, however, the unwelcome sight of Desmond King leaning on her bar demanded her attention.&nbsp; There was something about the seemingly respectable businessman that made the hair on the back of her neck stand on end.&nbsp; In short, he gave her the heebie jeebies.&nbsp; In Lola's assessment, he was like a mountain lion.&nbsp; Always stalking.&nbsp; Always on the hunt.&nbsp; And when he turned his face towards her, his hungry gaze made her blood run cold.<br><br>Ignoring the instinct to get as far away from him as possible, Lola hitched her smile that little bit wider, held her head high, and approached the forboding man with a confidence that she didn't feel.&nbsp; Noticing that he was still wearing his pistols, she made a mental note to speak to Joe, the barman, reminding him of their policy.&nbsp; There was only one exception to that rule, and it certainly wasn't Desmond King!<br><br>"Mr King," she said warmly, holding out her hand for his taking, treating him to a small curtsy as he did so.&nbsp; "How nice to see you in my humble establishment.&nbsp; I trust you're being well attended to?"&nbsp; Noticing he hadn't yet ordered a drink, she continued.&nbsp; "I pride myself on having the best whiskey in Silver City, you know."&nbsp; Very few of her patrons could resist her charms, and most would jump at the opportunity to buy her a drink.&nbsp; Looking up at him coyly through partially lowered lashes, she dropped her voice a little, giving him the impression that she didn't want to embarrass him.&nbsp; "I must ask, though, that you turn your guns over to Joe behind the bar.&nbsp; <em>Lola's</em> policy is no weapons in the saloon.&nbsp; I'm sure you understand."
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				Title: <strong>Re: Lola's (Lilly, Aemirys, Breathless Intent, Rolo &amp; Dark Clown)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mr Self Destruct</strong> on <strong>02-01-2012, 05:16:46</strong>
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				Desmond's gaze was impassive the entire time, and if her feminine wiles had any effect on him, it didn't show.&nbsp; He took her hand, and even squeezed it gently, before he pulled his hands back and folded them together on the bartop.&nbsp; He waited for her to finish speaking, smiling as she did so, before he began to laugh.<br><br>"You'll have to forgive me..." he said, reaching into the pocket of his coat and retrieving a folded piece of paper.&nbsp; His long, thin fingers slid the parchment toward her, where he waited for her to unfold it and realize just why he had come.&nbsp; "<em>Lola's policy</em> isn't my concern.&nbsp; As this establishment won't be <em>Lola's</em> much longer."<br><br>He grinned widely, and directed her eyes to the deed in her hands.<br><br>"I purchased the ground this place sits upon..." he explained, his dark eyes roaming her form for a long moment before rising back to her gaze.&nbsp; "That makes this establishment an intrusion on my property.&nbsp; I am well within my rights as a land owner to demand Lola's removal, but there are other options.&nbsp; After all, I'm not an animal.&nbsp; I'm quite certain we can work out some sort of bargain." <br><br>He stood then, pulling the deed back into his possession and slid it into his coat pocket.<br><br>"Now, Lola...why don't you grab a bottle of your finest whiskey and meet me upstairs.&nbsp; We have some things to discuss."<br><br>With that, he moved further within, climbing the stairs, his thick-soled boots crunching in the sawdust on the floor of the saloon.&nbsp; <br><br>
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Lola's (Lilly, Aemirys, Breathless Intent, Rolo &amp; Dark Clown)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Rolo</strong> on <strong>03-01-2012, 21:29:33</strong>
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				Jackson polished off the first whiskey just as a second was set in front of him.&nbsp; Layla's charm and smile never failed to put him at ease.<br><br>"Nothing that a nice hot bath and a good shave can't cure," he said as he winked to his pretty, young guest.&nbsp; "How are your skills with a razor?," he continued, sure that his intentions would be made.<br><br>He took his eyes away from her stunning beauty long enough to see the pole cat of a man that just walked in.&nbsp; There was an air of arrogance about him that made Jackson's trigger finger begin to itch.&nbsp; He slipped his hand to his side for reassurance that his trusty side arms were accessable.&nbsp; His distrust of the man doubled when he saw Abby and he had shared words.&nbsp; <br><br>His eyes searched the room for Lola, who was sure to be about the floor somewhere.&nbsp; The cackles on his neck stood at attention when he saw her making her way to the stranger.&nbsp; He tried his best to keep his uneasiness from Layla.<br><br>As Abby approached with his food the hunger pangs were in full force.&nbsp; A weeks worth of jerky and jack rabbit made him hunger for something more substantial.&nbsp; He noticed the disdain for his guest in her voice as she spoke, but the steak demanded his attention first.<br><br>"Thanks Darlin'," he said before he scooped a pile of beans in his mouth.&nbsp; He swallowed before he spoke again, "You always know how to put a smile on my face."&nbsp; His words dripped with innuendo.&nbsp; He'd be lying if he said the thought of two assistants with the bath didn't give his groin a twitch.&nbsp; <br>
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Lola's (Lilly, Aemirys, Breathless Intent, Rolo &amp; Dark Clown)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Aemirys</strong> on <strong>06-01-2012, 05:39:59</strong>
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				Although most of the time Layla drank the feigned whiskey the girls where supposed to every now and again she indulged in the real thing. Given the chance Layla could drink just about any man under the table. Although as Lola had expressed to her one evening that wasn't something to exactly be proud of. Well Layla thought, she had a lot of skills that weren't exactly something to be proud of but they had sure saved her skin more than once when she was younger.<br><br>She sipped appreciatively at the whiskey, because Lola sure did have the best stuff in town, her attention was focused completely on Jackson and upon hearing the barely veiled lascivious requests in his voice she widened her smile and conveyed in body language alone her enthusiastic acceptance of his salacious proposal.<br><br>Layla could feel the withering stare of Abby on her but with practiced nonchalance she kept kept her sights firmly set on her objective, Jackson.<br><br>She leaned in towards him and allowed a delicately gloved hand to fall to his knee. "If you like darlin' I'll go up stairs right now and draw you that nice hot bath you've been longing for?" She allowed her mouth to wrap around the word longing inbueing it with as much meaning as possible. She didn't bother to conceal her lust anymore as her satin fingers slowly and tantalising moved further up his leg. "And sugar," she crooned directing her words at both Jackson and Abby. "I'll give you the best shave you've ever had so that you won't go anywhere else after me."<br><br>And with a meaningful wink Layla downed the last of her whiskey and slid with all the grace of a dancer out of the booth and headed directly upstairs.
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Lola's (Lilly, Aemirys, Breathless Intent, Rolo &amp; Dark Clown)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Breathless Intent</strong> on <strong>06-01-2012, 20:45:47</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				Full lips were drawn into a wide smile of pure satisfaction at the words of praise directed at her. In fact, she wanted to act out in a childish display of triumph over the slender little floozy draping herself over <em>her</em> man. But, she knew that any such outburst would have quite the opposite effect. Jackson would certainly not appreciate it, and Lola might drag her away by her ear if she overheard such nonsense coming from her. As it was, Abby knew she was treading thin ice by lavishing any additional attention on the lone man when there were easily a half dozen others behind her that would gladly pay for her time. Still, she couldn’t very well walk away and leave Layla to claim her prize. <br>&nbsp;<br>Not being one to leave well enough alone, she chimed in lightly, “Sugar, you know I’d do just about anything to make you smile. And have.” That last bit was emphasized with a saucy wink as one round hip was popped out slightly, emphasizing her curvy little frame in an effort to compensate for the fact that the statuesque woman at his side was shamelessly hanging on him. Jealousy bubbled inside of her the longer she stared at the woman whose striking beauty and easy way with men had overshadowed Abby’s own talents in recent months. Until Layla had mysteriously arrived on Lola’s doorstep (as most of the women admittedly did), Abby had been the hands down favorite. Showered with gifts and proposals right and left, she had been overconfident in her position. Now, many of the men who had professed undying devotion to her had turned around and done the same to the lithe dancer. <br>&nbsp;<br>And Jackson! He was the worst of all! At least in Abby’s estimation. She had set her sights on him the moment she first saw him darken Lola’s door. He was tall and handsome and there was an air of mystery about him that had lured her in completely.&nbsp; So, she had flaunted and flirted and taken him to her bed. He had been hers exclusively (or so she believed) until Layla showed up and started making eyes at him. <br>&nbsp;<br>What confidence she had gained from Jackson’s prior remark was soon shattered by the blatant (and lewd!) attention Layla’s hand was providing Jackson’s upper thigh. Adding insult to injury, the obvious implication that she was replacing Abby caused her hands to ball into fists at her side and dark cerulean eyes to narrow sharply. Luckily, Layla slipped away and disappeared upstairs before Abby could overcome her outrage long enough to scream at the woman. With a hot flush tinting her cheeks, she turned her eyes back to Jackson with a flash of accusatory irritation burning in their depths. But, she knew that railing at him would do nothing to help her cause. Taking a calming breath, she reapplied that sweet smile and looked down at him with adoration warming her gaze. One delicate hand rose to brush familiarly through his dark hair, the warm soft tips of her fingers lightly trailing the curve of his ear. “Looks like you had a rough ride, darlin’. If you’d like, I can work out those kinks for you just the way you like.” Her hand dropped down to his shoulder, expert fingers working into his rigid muscles for a few moments to release some of their tension. “I have that lovely little lace thing up in my room. You are free to join me there if you’d like. I’m sure we can get that steaming bath moved someplace more to your liking.” 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Lola's (Lilly, Aemirys, Breathless Intent, Rolo &amp; Dark Clown)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Rolo</strong> on <strong>06-01-2012, 22:58:08</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Jackson's kept his attention on the plate of steak and beans steadfast as the knife sawed through the blood dripping flesh.&nbsp; He stabbed the chunk of meat and swirled it through the sauce of the beans before he shoved it in his mouth and worked if furiously between his teeth.<br><br>&nbsp;The tension mounted as thick as his steak between the two beauties vying for his attention.&nbsp; Layla's hand on his leg sparked a twinge in his groin that paused his face feeding frenzy, if but only for a moment.&nbsp; Guilt crept through his soul at the display before Abby.&nbsp; Truth be told his feelings for her were far more than she could ever know.&nbsp; Abby was the spitting image of Sarah, his late fiance, with the personality to match.&nbsp; From the moment he met her he could not deny the attraction, in fact several times in their moments of intimacy it was all he could do to keep from calling Abby, Sarah, something that she could not and would not ever know.&nbsp; The scars of Sarah's death ran deep.<br><br>The only person Jackson had confided that information to was Lola, and she had long expressed her opinion on the subject to the point she all but forbade him to lay with Abby anymore.&nbsp; His guts twisted at the look in her eyes between the internal fight to be with her and the fear of crossing Lola.&nbsp; He so desperately wanted to be with her.<br><br>As Layla slipped from the booth and Abby's smile returned he was sure that the relief would be visible.&nbsp; His skin tingled at her touch and the tension of the trail melted away as she massaged his shoulder.&nbsp; He allowed a smile to cross his face as he looked deep into her eyes, trying to convey something that he could not find the words for.&nbsp; <br><br>Jackson's attention snapped back when he sees Lola coming their direction, over Abby's shoulder, with a bottle in one hand and a discerned look on her face.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Lola's (Lilly, Aemirys, Breathless Intent, Rolo &amp; Dark Clown)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Miss Lilly</strong> on <strong>07-01-2012, 04:35:15</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Noting that his laugh did not reach his eyes, Lola unfolded the parchment Mr King slid towards her, her eyes scanning the contents quickly.<br><br><em><strong>"Lola's policy isn't my concern.&nbsp; As this establishment won't be Lola's much longer."</strong></em><br><br>The paper shook in her hands, and she couldn't tear her eyes away from the official looking document.&nbsp; Lola wondered idly if it could be a fake, but something about the big man's demeanor told her it was genuine, and he was her new landlord.&nbsp; <br><br><em><strong>"I purchased the ground this place sits upon. That makes this establishment an intrusion on my property.&nbsp; I am well within my rights as a land owner to demand Lola's removal, but there are other options.&nbsp; After all, I'm not an animal.&nbsp; I'm quite certain we can work out some sort of bargain."</strong></em> <br><br>Her blood ran cold at his words.&nbsp; Glancing up just in time to see his hungry eyes roam her small frame, she shuddered involuntarily as his gaze revealed the monster within. For the first time that Lola could remember, words escaped her. She couldn't speak.&nbsp; Couldn't even move as King plucked the offending document out of her hands and leaned towards her, close enough that she could feel the warmth of his breath as he instructed her to follow him upstairs.<br><br>Lola's mind raced. What was she going to do?&nbsp; Would she be forced to deliver sexual favours to the animal who was now making himself comfortable in one of her rooms upstairs, just to hold on to what was rightfully hers?&nbsp; Would he demand a share in Lola's? Or his pick of her girls, effectively turning them all into the whores that she had worked so hard to avoid them becoming?&nbsp; Or worse...would he actually do what he was apparently entitled to do, and demolish her cherished saloon?<br><br>Glancing around, hoping beyond hope that no one had overheard the conversation, Lola noticed the less than friendly exchange between Abby and Layla. <em>Don't tell me those two are fighting over Jackson again,</em> she thought bitterly to herself as Layla headed upstairs and Abby took her place in the booth. Watching the small redhead's hands working his shoulders, Lola's nostrils flared with anger.&nbsp; Grabbing a bottle of whiskey from Tom, Lola headed in their direction, determined to put a stop to this before it went any further.<br><br>"Abby," she began, trying to keep all traces of annoyance from her voice. "I have a special assignment for you."&nbsp; She smiled, hopefully warmly, avoiding Jacksons gaze as she continued.&nbsp; "In one of the upstairs rooms, you'll find Desmond King.&nbsp; I'm sure you're familiar with him?" It was a rhetorical question. "Take this bottle of whiskey to him, and give him a reason to forget about business for a while.&nbsp; You have my permission to share the bottle with him, if you like."<br><br>Lola held her breath, wondering if Abby would object.&nbsp; It was an odd instruction for her to give to one of the girls.&nbsp; Usually she actively discouraged any sort of sexual activity with customers, although she knew it went on from time to time.&nbsp; But this was different.&nbsp; And although she wasn't exactly directing Abby in that regard, desperate times called for desperate measures, and if anyone could make Mr Desmond King forget why he came to <em>Lola's</em> in the first place, it was Abby.<br><br>Taking the seat across from Jackson, Lola tried to get her whirling emotions under control.&nbsp; She knew Jackson would help her deal with King, if she asked.&nbsp; But did she want to ask?&nbsp; Would that put him in any danger?&nbsp; Could she live with herself if he were harmed because he felt obligated to help her out of a sticky situation?&nbsp; Not knowing where to begin, she blurted out the first thing that came to mind.<br><br>"What the hell do you think you're doing, causing a stir with my girls?" Her tone was angry and accusing. "What exactly are you playing at, Jackson??"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Lola's (Lilly, Aemirys, Breathless Intent, Rolo &amp; Dark Clown)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Breathless Intent</strong> on <strong>09-01-2012, 10:40:25</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Warmth suffused every inch of her at receiving <em>that look</em>. Since meeting Jackson, she had come to think of <em>that look</em> as her own special form of affection from him. Over the months she had caught him looking at her that way at various times and without fail it had made her blood boil. The first time had been just before she had taken him to her bed. They had flirted and talked for days on end at that point and she knew she wanted him…oh, but <em>that look</em> had sealed the deal. He had turned those lovely blue eyes on her and there was something sizzling beneath the surface that had set her heart racing. Without fail, since that day anytime <em>that look</em> had been turned on her, she was dragging him up to her room in the space of a minute. In that very moment her roiling desire was also amplified by the sweetness of triumph over Layla. <em>This’ll teach her to keep away from what’s mine!</em> Abby’s hand slid from Jackson’s shoulder down his arm and entwined her lithe fingers with his with every intention of absconding with him to her room.&nbsp; <br><br>Unfortunately, Lola had different ideas. The ecstatic grin that had lit up Abby’s delicate features froze as soon as she turned her gaze upward to meet Lola’s stare. Honestly, she had expected Lola sooner…and with a much less pleasant look on her face. It was apparent that she wasn’t happy but usually when Abby got in trouble Lola didn’t try to hide it. Now, however, she had a smile on her face. All hope that Lola was simply stopping by to wish Jackson a good evening was dashed as soon as Lola mentioned her “assignment,” whatever the hell that meant! Following Lola’s lead, Abby set her own pleasant smile in place, shaking her head lightly to indicate that she had other plans. But, before she could get out her refusal, Lola explained that Mr. King was upstairs and needing some companionship. <em>Hm…interesting.</em> Lola never encouraged her girls to meet privately with men. In fact, many times she actively discouraged such meetings in order to keep the saloon’s reputation untarnished. On top of it, she was permitting her to share the bottle. That was another of Lola’s rules, no getting drunk with the patrons. A drink here and there was tolerated to keep up the light atmosphere, but the girls were meant to keep their heads the whole time. Layla seemed to manage that best, downing many more drinks than some men and still keeping her head straight. But anyone who actually knew Abby knew that she was a lightweight and after two drinks she was gone. <br><br>Uncertain how to react, Abby turned to look at Jackson, hoping that maybe he would step in and let Lola know that she was already spoken for that evening. But, judging by the stare that was locked now between both Lola and Jackson, it didn’t seem like any such rescue was forthcoming. So, with her brow knit and a pout on her lips, she muttered a petulant “Fine,” before taking the neck of the whiskey bottle in hand and making her way across the main floor up to the stairs. She cast one final glance to the pair and was surprised to see Lola laying into Jackson. <br><br>Not wanting to get on Lola’s bad side, Abby turned her attention back to the “assignment” she had been given. If it hadn’t been for her prospective time alone with Jackson, Abby would have jumped on the opportunity to entertain Mr. King. He was wealthy and seemed ambitious…two qualities she adored in a man. It didn’t hurt matters that he was handsome and seemed to be a little dangerous. Maybe he had even requested that Abby specifically come join him. She had seen him at the bar after all, maybe she had finally caught his eye, something she had tried (and failed) to do since he came to town. <br><br>A quick inquiry to one of the boys running water upstairs for Jackson’s bath told her which room Mr. King was in. After a cursory knock she pushed the door open and stepped into the room wearing her most charming grin. Meeting Mr. King’s dark stare, she closed the door meaningfully behind her and presented the bottle of whiskey. “Hello again, Mr. King. I heard that you were looking for someone to share a few drinks with and I couldn’t pass up the chance to spend a little quality time with you. Would you mind sharing a few glasses with me?” Not waiting for a response, she slowly approached the table on the other side of the room where a few empty glasses sat. The naturally feminine sway of her hips was intentionally accentuated as she took those few steps, showing off the ample curves of her hourglass figure to great effect. In a matter of seconds she turned back to the tall man and extended one slender arm toward him, offering a whiskey-filled glass. Her voice had dropped slightly, taking on a dusky tone that matched the impure intent in her indigo stare, “To our new friendship?” 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Lola's (Lilly, Aemirys, Breathless Intent, Rolo &amp; Dark Clown)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Aemirys</strong> on <strong>10-01-2012, 06:01:25</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				With a satisfied step in her stride Layla made her way to her room, on route she caught one of the boys that fetched water and ran errands and told him to start a bath going for Mr West in her room. <br><br>To everyone around her Layla was a confident and happy woman, only Lola knew something about her past and the ghosts that haunted her but even she didn't know just how deep the darkness of her past went, Layla had run as far as she could to make sure of that. She often wondered were she would be if Lola hadn't rescued her when she did. She owed that woman so much, she always said a pray for her each night even though Layla questioned the existence of God because if there was a God why would He allow the things that happened to Layla to happen at all. Either that or she was truly as worthless as so many men had called her throughout her life and she was beyond His loving and care<br><br>As she reached for the door handle to her room out of an instinctive habit her hand wandered to the blade she had hidden in her corset, a wickedly sharp stiletto blade in a hardened leather sheath that she could secure to any of her corsets, all she need do was reach between her breasts. She forced her hand away and entered the room but her untrusting eyes searched the shadows of her room. <br><br>She quickly set about lighting some candles, the cheery light of the dancing flames helped to force back the darkness of the room and her mind. She set about making the room and herself ready for Jackson. As she straightened the white crocheted bed covering her hand involuntarily wandered to the small pistol she kept under her pillow, feeling it's familiar weight she contemplated momentarily about removing it but old habits died hard for Layla so she left her trustworthy little friend where it was sure that West would be to busy to find it anyway.<br><br>Layla folded herself into the well padded arm chair that sat near a full length mirror and chest of draws and began undressing. <br><br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Lola's (Lilly, Aemirys, Breathless Intent, Rolo &amp; Dark Clown)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mr Self Destruct</strong> on <strong>10-01-2012, 19:35:09</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				As Abby moved into the room, carrying with her a bottle of a whiskey and her most charming smile, Desmond grinned.&nbsp; He sat at the same table she moved toward, his feet propped up on the tabletop, one boot crossed over the other.&nbsp; His dark eyes roamed her form, from the gentle curve of her backside to the rise of her breasts, and as his gaze met her own, he stood, taking the offered glass of whiskey.<br><br>Downing it in one gulp, he sat the empty glass on the table and pulled the woman in close to him, crushing her body to his own.&nbsp; His right hand slid up behind her, grabbing a thick handful of her red hair, while the other slid down to squeeze her ass tightly, while he pressed his hips against her own.<br><br>“To new partnerships…” he said, and pressed his lips to her own, turning her so that when he pressed her back, the two of them fell to the bed.&nbsp; Lola hadn’t bent to his will, but he hadn’t expected her to.&nbsp; She was strong-willed and determined, and though she was only a woman, she ran one of the most profitable saloons in Silver City.&nbsp; Of course, most of those profits were taken from the miners in the nearby silver pits, independent workers who wanted nothing more than a stiff drink and a soft woman, but they were profitable nonetheless.&nbsp; He hadn’t intended to reveal himself so soon, but old debts had to be repaid, and there was no sense in waiting for them to come due.<br><br>His strong hands slid down the front of her corset as his lips pulled away from her own.&nbsp; He squeezed her breasts, grinning lecherously, his dark eyes growing darker with the growing lust within him.&nbsp; He began unlacing the corset, slowly and deliberately, his legs straddling her waist, pinning her to the mattress.<br><br>“You’re all mine for the night, are you?” he asked, his fingers working their way down the corset.&nbsp; “And a bottle of whiskey, to boot.&nbsp; She’s trying to keep me distracted.”&nbsp; He chuckled, finally loosening the corset enough to pull it free from her body.&nbsp; He squeezed her bare breasts, his hungry fingers kneading her flesh, before he pressed his lips to one pale nipple, sucking it between his teeth.&nbsp; He grinned, tugging on the tiny nub with his teeth, before doing likewise with the other.&nbsp; <br><br>He stood then, and removed his coat, tossing it over the back of a nearby chair.&nbsp; He slowly began unbuttoning his shirt, looking down at her half-naked form.&nbsp; <br><br>“Come on, Abby…” he said.&nbsp; “Show me what you’ve got.”<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Lola's (Lilly, Aemirys, Breathless Intent, Rolo &amp; Dark Clown)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Rolo</strong> on <strong>12-01-2012, 18:02:49</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Jackson narrowed his eyes on Lola's with an equal amount of disdain as her biting tongue.<br><br>"You know damn good and well I am not playing at anything, Lola," he snapped before he shoved the last bite of steak in his mouth and chewed in anger.<br><br>He swallowed and continued, "I just finished chasing that snake, Jeb Blackwell, across Arizona and Nevada for the past six weeks.&nbsp; Finally caught him in Tumbleweed, nowhere and dragged his ass back to Carson to collect the reward.&nbsp; I'm tired and dusty and just want to feel the soft flesh of a woman beneath me for a change."<br><br>Jackson softened his stare at her for a moment before continuing, "I am trying to respect your wishes about Abby, and Layla seems eager and willing.&nbsp; If you would like I can take my money down to Trixie's, catch the drip and never darken your door again."<br><br>Lola's reputation for a good time and clean women was a rare mark in the west and Jackson liked being able to be with a woman that did not require a visit to the doctor immediately following.<br><br>Before Lola could rebut Jackson shoved the tin plate her direction and excused himself from the booth and made his way to the stairs.&nbsp; He paused half way up them as a pass of guilt waved over him.&nbsp; He looked back at Lola with a half hearted attempt at an apologetic look before he continued up the last few steps.<br><br>He turned the corner and ran into the lad that left his gear outside Layla's door.&nbsp; He thanked the boy with a quick rub on his head and started down the hallway.&nbsp; He caught sight of Abby's door and his blood boiled at the thought of her laying with the dark stranger.&nbsp; He paused long enough to shove the idea of entering her door out of his mind.&nbsp; The urge was overwhelming to barge in and throw the stranger out window and have Abby to himself, but he figured he had tested the limits of Lola's patience enough.<br><br>He walked to Layla's door and turned the knob to enter.&nbsp; He kicked his gear just inside by the wall and looked up to see Layla already in the bath with one leg propped on the side of the porcelain claw footed tub and an inviting smile on her face.&nbsp; His groin twinged at the sight of her milky white skin glistening from the water, that caught the light from a solitary oil lamp that burned in the room.&nbsp; Jackson closed the door behind him before he loosed his gun belt and began to undress.&nbsp; I streak of dull pain shot through his shoulder as he took his shirt off.&nbsp; He revealed a welted scar that reminds him of the bloody shoot out so many years ago.&nbsp; A blade width scar was visible down his side as well that extended over his lower four ribs to his hip.&nbsp; With every remaining article of clothing he removed his excitement began to grow which conversely pushed the thoughts of Abby and the stranger, Lola, and the past few weeks from his thoughts.&nbsp; As with most males, the primal urge to lay with a woman generally ruled over all else, and Jackson was not foreign to that concept.<br><br>He lowered himself in the tub between her legs and sighed as the hot water soothed the aches and he leaned back against her ample breasts.&nbsp; All thoughts vanquished from his mind as he laid there fully erect and pleased with the touch of a woman's skin to his.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Lola's (Lilly, Aemirys, Breathless Intent, Rolo &amp; Dark Clown)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Miss Lilly</strong> on <strong>14-01-2012, 03:00:53</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Having been on the receiving end of more than a few of Jackson's biting remarks, Lola let his words roll off her like water off a duck's back.&nbsp; She knew he was trying to avoid any further entanglements with Abby, although tonight he didn't seem to have been trying very hard at all.&nbsp; Lola supposed she should be pleased that Layla had managed to wrangle his attention away from the small redhead who looked so much like his dead love, he was less likely to become emotionally attached to Layla, but she wasn't feeling particularly grateful about anything right at the moment.&nbsp; In fact, she was fighting the urge to jump up and down and scream in his face about how selfish he was being, and didn't he realise that her world was about to come crashing down around her?<br><br>His comment about Trixie's caught her off guard, and she looked up at him sharply.&nbsp; He wouldn't, would he?&nbsp; She couldn't imagine not seeing him every few months, never knowing if he was okay, or even alive.&nbsp; She opened her mouth to apologise, but she was too slow.&nbsp; He was already halfway across the saloon floor, striding purposefully towards the stairs, and Layla's bed.&nbsp; Tears welled in Lola's eyes as she watched his retreating back.&nbsp; What was she thinking, fighting with Jackson?&nbsp; He was the one person she'd always been able to count on.&nbsp; The one person who'd always been there when she needed someone.&nbsp; Especially after what had happened with Emmett.&nbsp; They never spoke of it, but she suspected that Jackson still felt the weight of responsibility for her husband's death.&nbsp; Emmett had been his best friend, after all.<br><br>Carefully patting away her unshed tears with the lace handkerchief she kept stowed in her sleeve, Lola closed her eyes and took a slow, calming breath.&nbsp; It seemed there would be no talking her problem over with Jackson. At least, not tonight.&nbsp; She glanced up at him just as his back turned toward her.&nbsp; Had he hesitated on the stairs? Did he have the same urge to apologise that she did?&nbsp; And if he did, how could he turn away and leave her crying?<br><br>Lola rose from the booth, hitching what she hoped was her best smile into place.&nbsp; Crying over her problems would do her no good at all, and it wasn't like this was the first fight that she and Jackson had ever had, nor would it be the last.&nbsp; She would apologise to him later, and maybe try to talk the Desmond King dilemma over with him too.&nbsp; Although perhaps it would be prudent to wait until Mr King was no longer in the saloon.&nbsp; Jackson was likely to try to find a permanent solution to the problem, and Lola couldn't risk him being thrown into jail over a situation that was hers to deal with.&nbsp; Pushing all such thoughts to the back of her mind, the elegant hostess began mingling with her customers once again.&nbsp; It was a testament to her acting skills that not a single one of them realised that Lola was anything less than her usual delightful, engaging self.&nbsp; For the first time since she opened <em>Lola's</em>, she considered accepting all the drinks offered her.&nbsp; Perhaps it was time to break her rules a little.&nbsp; If Mr King had his way, the rules may not be hers to break for very much longer.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Lola's (Lilly, Aemirys, Breathless Intent, Rolo &amp; Dark Clown)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Aemirys</strong> on <strong>16-01-2012, 20:37:43</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Seeing Jackson's obvious arousal a salacious smile spread across Layla's lips with her own mounting desire coupled with the imminent prospect of finally claiming her long sought after prize. Her tongue unconsciously sort out her lips, moistening them, her own primal urges coming to the fore and threatening to overwhelm all her senses, she pulled herself back from the brink of submitting to mindless pleasure and remembered her place.<br><br>She pressed her naked form into Jackson's back as she began to gently wash away the dirt and cares that clung to him. She deliberately allowed her breasts to slide over his naked back as she administered attention to the rest of his body. She let the wash cloth fall from her grasp and instead with insistant , hungry hands began massaging his hard member, her strokes urging him on to greater heights as well as conveying her own desperate desire.<br><br>Leaning in close she whispers into his ear, "Your shave might need to wait, I think there are more <em>pressing</em> matters to take care first, don't you think?"<br><br>Having been on the road and away from the tender mercies of female companionship for too long Layla knew from experience that she needed to release the built up pressure lurking within Jackson for both of their sakes.<br><br>She wrapped her long legs around him, rocking her hips in time with the motion of her hand as she stroked away Jackson's cares. It didn't take long to unleash the dormant passion in his loins, with a well practiced rhythm she brought him to a shuddering release, his muscled form arching back into her as she milked him of every drop.<br><br>She cradled Jackson with her whole body, allowing the hot water and silence to wash over him.<br>&nbsp;
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Lola's (Lilly, Aemirys, Breathless Intent, Rolo &amp; Dark Clown)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Breathless Intent</strong> on <strong>17-01-2012, 11:39:31</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				There was something in his eyes that had the hair on the back of her neck standing on end a scant second after she had offered that drink…“predatory”, was the word that came to mind. Whatever it was, it was more than simple lust or desire. No, she had become accustomed to seeing those emotions in the eyes of countless men at the saloon. Hell, she made her living off of those looks. But this was something entirely different, and Abby wasn’t quite sure what to make of it. <br><br>Part of her was excited by the grin on his lips and his appreciative stare. She wanted to flaunt a little more, press her breasts together a little tighter, and lick her lips to make him think of kissing them. But there was another part of her, a sensible little kernel tucked deep within her mind, that told her to politely excuse herself and back out as fast as possible. That nagging worry was tamped down and covered by her curiosity of the man. He was a Big Deal after all and hadn’t Lola asked her to take care of him? Keeping her smile in place, she took a healthy drink of the whiskey and watched over the rim of her glass as he downed his in one go. <br><br>Everything after that seemed to happen in a blur. In the space of a moment the large man had taken her over and wound his fingers into her hair to tug it back harshly. The lips crushing roughly against hers muffled her reflexive cries of protest. Trapped within the power of his hold, what little struggle she gave was a futile effort against his strength and did nothing to deter groping hands or the thrust of his hips against her. Feeling her feet give way beneath her, she gasped against his lips and grunted a second later as he fell over her onto the bed. The shock and panic she had felt a second before was only intensified as his large body straddled hers and began yanking at the strings of her corset. <br><br>Stunned, she simply lay there and watched as he expertly pulled at her top, finally releasing it with a rough tug, which allowed the soft porcelain expanse of plump breasts to become fully exposed. His taunting words also rocked her to the core. Lola had asked her to go up there and make sure that he was occupied for the evening…but did she know exactly what would go on behind closed doors? Did she set her up for this as a form of punishment for fighting over Jackson? A flurry of thoughts and scenarios played out in her mind as rough hands groped at the sensitive flesh of her breasts. <br><br>Soon, the shock and fright melted in the heat of a blooming anger. Lola thought she could get away with this, did she? Thought she was so high and mighty because she owned this place? Well that bitch was nothing compared to the man over her. Mr. Big Deal himself. Forcing down her fright and trying to recall her earlier excitement, Abby closed those big blue eyes of hers and tried to focus on the task at hand, which was to make Mr. Desmond King about the happiest, most satisfied man west of the Mississippi. <br><br>Concentrating on the sensation of his touch, she arched her back up and offered those luscious mounds for the taking. Immediately, the pale pink peaks pebbled tightly between plucking fingertips and her husky moans encouraged him onward. At the touch of his lips and tongue to those sensitive tips, she whispered a soft “Yes” and sucked in a slow gasp as his teeth clamped and tugged on them. While he leaned over her, her hands had slid up to glide along the broad stretch of his shoulders, one continuing along the curve of his neck and up to curl her fingers in his hair to hold him tightly in place. <br><br>By the time he pulled away and began to undress, Abby had well and truly worked herself up for the part. At his goading words, she could not help but turn that lusty indigo stare up to meet his dark eyes, letting him see that she was ready for him and that the struggle which had been in her earlier had melted away. Keeping her eyes locked on his, delicate hands slid over the soft ivory skin of her breasts, thumbs and forefingers of both hands finding her nipples and toying with the damp flesh which he had just seconds before been teasing. The pink tip of her moist tongue slid out to slowly trace the fullness of her lips, as a sound of erotic excitement hummed in the back of her throat. <br><br>Sliding both hands down her taut belly, she slowly untied the sides of her skirt and pushed it down over the full swell of her hips. Clad only in her undergarments, she unfastened them as well and after slowly peeling the layers away she lay perfectly nude before him. Full soft breasts rose high over a narrow waist, which flared out to round feminine hips and lean smooth legs. Returning her gaze to his, she traced the curves of her body with a light touch, one hand settling over the patch of deep auburn curls covering her mound. Lacing a few fingers down between ivory thighs, she teased at sensitive lips, dipping one finger further to gather up a drop of wetness to glide over pink flesh. Having seized his full attention, a slow grin curled the corners of her lips and an enticing lilt entered the soft husky tone of her voice, “For you, sir, I’ve got anything you could possibly want...”
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Lola's (Lilly, Aemirys, Breathless Intent, Rolo &amp; Dark Clown)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Rolo</strong> on <strong>17-01-2012, 17:06:16</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Jackson closed his eyes as he relaxed into Layla's embrace.&nbsp; Her young, firm breasts pressed into his back, long silky legs wrapped around him and soft hand fondled his manhood.&nbsp; Her touch was that of an experienced woman, one not befitting a woman as young as she.&nbsp; She had the perfect mixture of firm yet soft when needed.&nbsp; Her hand would slip up over the bulging head and then back down to the base in a subtle rhythm bringing him to the brink in no time at all.&nbsp; His release was pure bliss as she milked him with just enough touch to his sensitive areas that kept him on the edge of ecstasy for several long moments.<br><br>As her grip loosened on his cock he melted into her once again as the heat of the water and her touch washed over him.&nbsp; His thoughts turned to the delightful things he wanted to do her in the bed after the bath which in turn rejuvenated his erection quickly.&nbsp; They laid in the tub silently knowing what was to come until the hot water turned tepid.&nbsp; Jackson leaned forward and grabbed a large pail of water sitting next to the tub and poured it over his head to clean out the dust of the trail.&nbsp; Once finished he stood and turned to face Layla with a grin of invitation on his face.&nbsp; <br><br>He stepped from the tub and toweled off quickly before he escorted her from the tub.&nbsp; He inspected every sensual curve of her body while he toweled her off.&nbsp; His hands nearly trembled when he finished and he put them on her tender skin.&nbsp; He circled behind her and slowly slid his hands from her hips to her stomach and pulled her close to him, his full erection pressed into her back.&nbsp; His lips found her neck as he drank in the faint scent of her perfume.&nbsp; Jackson's leather hands moved to her milky white breasts and began to fondle her budded nipples.&nbsp; Desire ruled the room as the passion built passed the point of no return.<br><br>A brief regret flashed through his mind at the thought of bedding a woman half his age, but the rage of excitement soon took over at the thought of fucking this young piece of ass.&nbsp; After all he certainly was not the first to have tasted her sweet passion, nor did he figure he would be the last.&nbsp; He finally succumbed to his desires and turned her to face him.&nbsp; He lifted her in his arms and in two short steps had her pinned against the wall.&nbsp; His lips pressed to hers he kissed her longingly and reveled in the touch of their naked skin together.<br><br>He turned and backed up a half dozen steps before he fell back on the bed and still held her tightly in his arms.&nbsp; His hardened dick pressed against her sweet, tender oasis.<br><br>He grinned before he spoke, "I agree.&nbsp; The shave will just have to wait."&nbsp; His eyes twinkled as his arms fell, to let her do her bidding.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Lola's (Lilly, Aemirys, Breathless Intent, Rolo &amp; Dark Clown)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Aemirys</strong> on <strong>22-01-2012, 07:18:51</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She answered his words and his passion with a wicked grin of her own. She grabbed his arms and pinned them above his head, leaning in to hungrily kiss him. Feeling very much like the predator who is about to devour her long stalked pray. <br><br>She wrapped her longs legs around him, straddling his waist and slowly and deliberately she lowered herself onto his hard waiting member. As his hard sex filled her up completely she threw back her head letting out a long satisfied moan. Her mind could think of nothing else at the moment except sating the urgent hunger she felt inside of her.<br><br>Her wet sex gripped and quivered around Jackson's manhood as she rolled and rocked her hips moving him inside of her. Her pace quickened, her blood pounding hard in her veins, her mind and actions completely intent on climaxing. All thoughts and cares were abandoned as she sought her own sweet release, knowing that it would be but the first of many, for both her and her lover. <br><br>Now that she had Jackson she wasn't going to let him get away, not until they were both lying spent and exhausted. <br><br>She abandoned Jackson's arms as her hands moved to his chest, clawing at him in her mounting pleasure. With her head thrown back in the zeal of ecstasy, her white creamy breasts thrust invitingly forward, her breath came in short ragged pants punctuated with her frequent moans of delight.<br><br>She could feel herself ready to slip over the edge of passion, her hips moved in a frenzy against Jackson, her nails biting into his flesh, unrestrained by any self control leaving long ragged marks just about his heart, with a piercing moan her pleasure reach it's crescendo.<br><br>With her long piercing moan dying away she collapsed into Jackson chest and embrace quivering with satisfied desire, unable to do anything more for the moment than lay there soft against him, his member still inside of her.<br><br>Layla had always found she could escape all her cares and woes in the pursuit of pleasure, it brought her a sweet oblivion from all the heart ache she had ever known unlike anything else in life.<br><br>Even though much of the heartache Layla had suffered had happened during the course of sex, she didn't question why it also allowed her to escape them, why question something that brought such intense pleasure she reasoned, instead she revelled in it and actively hunted out her sweet oblivion.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Lola's (Lilly, Aemirys, Breathless Intent, Rolo &amp; Dark Clown)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mr Self Destruct</strong> on <strong>24-01-2012, 05:39:57</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Desmond watched as Abby’s fear gave way to desire, her passion growing with the pure power he exuded.&nbsp; His grin widened, his rough fingers working their way down the buttons of his shirt.&nbsp; He pulled it open, and tossed it atop his coat, before he moved toward her.&nbsp; One arm slid around behind her, and he pulled her closely to him, their bodies pressing together.&nbsp; Unlike so many things in his world, she was soft and warm, and he felt his passion burn all the hotter with her so near him.<br><br>He pressed his lips to her own, crushing them against hers, his tongue pressing hungrily into her mouth.&nbsp; One hand rose, his fingers curling in her red hair, taking up a thick handful of her soft tresses as he kissed her.&nbsp; His other hand rose, squeezing her breast longingly, and he moaned as his growing erection rubbed along her body, the front of his dark trousers straining to keep him contained.<br><br>He pulled away from her then, and turned, taking up the bottle of whiskey once more.&nbsp; He pressed the bottle’s opening to his lips and took a deep drink of the stuff, making a slight face as it burned its way down his throat.&nbsp; Turning back to her, he grinned, and moved his free hand to the front of his trousers.&nbsp; Unclasping them, he let them fall to his feet, and stepped out of them, his thick cock jutting out before him like a spear aimed at her core.&nbsp; His hand then rose, sliding to the back of her neck, and he kissed her quickly before he began to slowly press her downward, that she might kneel before him.<br><br>He had to give Lola credit, he supposed.&nbsp; With Abby’s nude body before him and the nearly full bottle of whiskey, he’d be distracted for the better part of the night.&nbsp; Of course, that didn’t mean that his intentions for the woman and her saloon would change.&nbsp; He’d been quick to reveal himself and his intentions to her to draw her sights directly to him.&nbsp; With her attention focused on the threat he posed, she wouldn’t notice the subtler, quieter legal machinations that his team of lawyers were even then composing.&nbsp; They would take time, of course, but as he glanced down at Abby, his cock pressed to her full, luscious lips, he knew he could wait.&nbsp; After all, there was much here to keep him occupied while Silver City slowly became his own.<br><br>His fingers curled through her hair as he pushed the head of his cock past her lips, and moaned again.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Lola's (Lilly, Aemirys, Breathless Intent, Rolo &amp; Dark Clown)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Miss Lilly</strong> on <strong>24-01-2012, 09:11:31</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Lola, when will you let me take you away from all this and make an honest woman of you?"<br><br>The voice behind her belonged to Mr Peters, who owned the local drug store.&nbsp; His wife had died several years ago, he hadn't yet taken another, and his standing invitation to rescue her from debauchery was not entirely jovial.&nbsp; Lola knew, should she give him even the slightest indication she would accept his offer, that he'd have an appointment at the courthouse the very next day. <br><br>"What, and drag me away from all this?" Laughing along with him, she slipped her arm through his and cocked her head towards the dancefloor.&nbsp; "How about a good old fashioned dance instead?"&nbsp; Her eyes twinkled with mischief, and she knew she had just made his day.&nbsp; It was the best part of the job for Lola.&nbsp; Giving men, forgotten or otherwise, a reason to head home at the end of the night with a smile on their face, and an urge to come back tomorrow.&nbsp; No wonder her name was mud amongst the wives in town.&nbsp; Not that that bothered her any.&nbsp; Lola had never been one to base her sense of self worth on the opinions of others.&nbsp; She was an independent woman.&nbsp; The only one of her kind in Silver City, and it was only natural that she would be seen as a threat by the ladies in town.<br><br>After a few whirls around the dance floor and a chaste kiss on his cheek, Lola took her leave from Mr Peters and continued to mingle amongst her guests.&nbsp; Having made the decision not to succumb to the despair that had threatened to crush her earlier, she continued to politely decline most of the never ending supply of drinks bought for her.&nbsp; However, Lola was shrewd, and she had the game down to a fine art.&nbsp; Every now and then she would accept a drink, but never from the same man twice in the same night, or even in the same week.&nbsp; It was what kept the men folk buying whiskey in two's.&nbsp; Her sales were effectively double when she was working the floor.<br><br>Several dances later, Lola excused herself from the group of miners she had been entertaining, and made her way to the bar.&nbsp; Tom knew her routine, and already had a glass of water waiting for her, a refreshing slice of cucumber floating lightly on the top, just the way she liked it.&nbsp; Sipping it delicately, she leaned back on the bar, watching her customers enjoy themselves.&nbsp; Bill, the owner of the local stockfeed, was making his way toward her through the crowd.&nbsp; He looked troubled, and Lola hoped that it wasn't marital&nbsp; again.&nbsp; It was no secret that his wife was somewhat...volatile.&nbsp; On more than one occasion he'd been seen in <em>Lola's</em> sporting a black eye.&nbsp; If Bill was to believed, he'd walked into every door in Silver City.<br><br>"Evenin', Lola," his gravelly voice cut through the noise as he nodded towards Tom for a whiskey.&nbsp; "Can I tempt you into joining me?"&nbsp; His voice was hopeful, and coupled with the weight of the world look he was wearing, it took all of Lola's self control to say no. She'd already reached her self imposed quota.&nbsp; He smiled resignedly.&nbsp; "Maybe next time, then."<br><br>Lola watched him throw back the whiskey, and immediately order another.<br><br>"Bill, is everything okay?"&nbsp; She rested her hand on his forearm, giving it a reassuring squeeze.&nbsp; "You look troubled.&nbsp; You know I'm a good listener, if you need to talk."&nbsp; Lola could fill a book with the trials and tribulations of her customers that she'd listened to over the years.&nbsp; It was all part of the service, as far as she was concerned.&nbsp; "Did you want to join me in a booth?&nbsp; It's a bit more private than here at the bar."<br><br>Bill shook his head and threw back his third whiskey.&nbsp; Lola was really getting concerned now.<br><br>"Thanks, Lola.&nbsp; But there's nuthin' anyone can do.&nbsp; It's too late.&nbsp; I'm out of options.&nbsp; Thanks to that bastard King," he spat.<br><br>Lola's heart sank.&nbsp; Had Desmond King put the squeeze on Bill like he had her?&nbsp; And what was it too late for?<br><br>Before she could question him further, or offer him any more reassurance, Bill had thrown enough coins on the bar to cover his tab, downed a fourth whiskey, and headed for the door.&nbsp; Lola watched him go, a heaviness settling over her heart.&nbsp; It seemed that there was more to Mr King than met the eye.<br><br>And perhaps Lola needed to talk to Jackson sooner, rather than later.<br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Lola's (Lilly, Aemirys, Breathless Intent, Rolo &amp; Dark Clown)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Rolo</strong> on <strong>24-01-2012, 18:06:17</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Jackson laid in awe of Layla's sexual talents.&nbsp; His hands found her slender waist and slipped to her hips as she gyrated on his galvanized cock.&nbsp; He felt her build up and explode in ecstasy on him and nearly tripped his own release.&nbsp; When she collapsed on him his arms wrapped around her in a thankful embrace that his sensitive member was given a moment of pause to stave off his climax.<br><br>His hand slid up her back and he laced his fingers in her dark curls.&nbsp; Jackson pulled back her head and laid his lips on hers as they rolled over on the bed.&nbsp; Wrapped up in the passion of the moment he began kissing along her neck and shoulder, savoring the taste of her sweet young flesh.&nbsp; The stubbled growth on his face left little patches of blush on her otherwise perfectly white skin.&nbsp; He moved down her body continuing to kiss and nip at her plump breasts.&nbsp; His mouth attacked her budded nipples with a fury of licking and sucking.<br><br>He rose to a kneel between her leg, and looked down on her satin skin shimmering in the flicker of oil lamp.&nbsp; His body willing and ready and hers inviting as a flash of Abby and the dark stranger doing something similar streaked through his thoughts.&nbsp; His mood darkened briefly as his blood began to boil.&nbsp; <em>Fuck it!</em> he thought as he tried to return his attention to the young beauty laying spread out in front of him, but the thought kept nagging at him.<br><br>His tenderness evaporated when he crawls back over Layla, his desire became more urgent to push the though of his forbidden love laying there with someone else's cock stuffed in her and her adoring eyes looking up at someone else's face.<br><br>Jackson reached down and placed his still wet shaft at Layla's opening and push his hips into her quickly that resulted in a sharp smack as their flesh met.&nbsp; He held this postion while he pined her hands above her head and held them with one hand.&nbsp; His other hand reached down and pulled at her thigh and brought it to rest over his hip.&nbsp; He began rotating his hips before withdrawing and slamming back into her.&nbsp; Each time he pounded into her, brought the tingle to the tip of his rod and drove the thoughts of Abby away for the moment.&nbsp; He continued at a rapid pace until the trigger let loose and he climaxed with a primal yell through clenched teeth.&nbsp; The scream was a mixture of sweet release and frustration of his thoughts.<br><br>When he collapsed against Layla his aggression turned to resolve, and he was determined to fuck away the thoughts of Abby.&nbsp; <em>If she can do it, I can to.</em><br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Lola's (Lilly, Aemirys, Breathless Intent, Rolo &amp; Dark Clown)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Breathless Intent</strong> on <strong>29-01-2012, 06:04:10</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Hunger burned within the dark blue stare that followed the course of King’s loosening buttons. Lusty appreciation was writ across delicate features as she took in the sight of his shirtless chest – well-formed and strong, with no soft rolls of flesh to hide the power of his frame. Curiously, there appeared to be four aces tattooed on his chest. She hadn’t seen many tattoos in her years and was immediately curious to touch and taste the marked skin. Transfixed by the dark lines of ink, she welcomed the sudden pull of her body up against him and took that opportunity to slide her hand up the right side of his chest to graze the pad of her thumb along the aces. <br><br>Warm fingers clung against his skin a second later as the crush of his lips and tongue took over her senses. Abby’s soft pale flesh pressed tight against the hard dark plains of King’s exposed skin, her body melting in reaction to the urgent heat of his kiss. A soft gasp and subsequent moan were muffled between their joined lips as the grip of his fist tangled in her hair and the upward squeeze of her soft breast sent the sensitive bud of her nipple instantly tightening against his palm. She arched against him, sliding her soft skin over his body with every intention of fueling the lust that had already kindled between them. She wanted him to burn for her and recognize that there was something special about her, something he would come back for and pursue beyond this night of mere distraction. <br><br>King’s unexpected step back caused her to stumble forward slightly since she was using his body as an anchor as she arched and writhed against him. Never having been particularly graceful, she tried to make up for it with a lighthearted attitude. But here? In this setting? She hoped that the bright rush of embarrassed color to her cheeks was hidden by the darkness of their small room and covered by the fact that he was taking another drink of whiskey. When his hands dropped to his waist and his pants fell away, she stood in silence while she admired his nude body and blatant arousal. Dragging her plump lower lip between her teeth, she stared at the thick length of him for a long moment before returning her gaze to King’s face. <br><br>The sweet steady pulse of her arousal increased immediately at the gentle, yet insistent, push of his rough hand upon her neck. Needing no further encouragement, her lips traveled down the length of his neck and chest, pausing momentarily to sate her desire to flick her tongue over the Ace of Spades before continuing lower. By the time she settled on her knees, her mouth and tongue were working over the hot skin at the crease of his hip and thigh, lapping at that little indentation teasingly while his cock throbbed a mere inch from her lips. The tug of his fingers in captive coppery curls urged her to quit her teasing and give him what he wanted from her. <br><br>Peering up through thick auburn lashes, indigo eyes met his dark stare just as those sweet pink lips parted around the shimmering head of his length. Within the warm confines of her mouth, her tongue slid forward to take her first taste of his slick skin. His taste was strong and salty, but she enjoyed the feel of his thickness stretching her lips and the grip of his hand in her hair. Placing delicate palms against his upper thighs, she slowly slid her mouth forward and lavished the hot wet attention of her slippery tongue over each inch that disappeared inside her mouth. Eventually, nearly his entire cock was buried inside of her mouth, her wild tongue working industriously as she kept up the pressure of holding her lips’ grip on him, causing her cheeks to sink in slightly. <br><br>While her lips and tongue worked over his throbbing length, one set of fingers curved inward along his inner thigh. She stroked the sensitive skin, scraping her nails over him gently before finally curling between his legs and cupping the heavy weight of his balls. Within her warm soft palm, she gently massaged them in time with the pace of her lips and tongue working over his cock. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Lola's (Lilly, Aemirys, Breathless Intent, Rolo &amp; Dark Clown)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mr Self Destruct</strong> on <strong>30-01-2012, 05:58:01</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				A low, rumbling growl reverberated from within him as her wet lips slid along his flesh.&nbsp; Her hands cradled his heavy balls, her fingers massaging the twin orbs between his legs, and despite himself, a shiver ran through his form as he stood before her, his frame towering over her kneeling body.&nbsp; The fingers in her hair tightened, gripping her red curls as his hips began to slowly slide to and fro, each thrust pushing his thick cock deeper into her mouth.<br><br>"Mmmmmhmmm..." he moaned, his dark eyes growing darker with lust.&nbsp; "I may have to accept Lola's distractions more often.&nbsp; You're worth the effort of being patient with her.&nbsp; But you'll be working for me soon enough, Abby.&nbsp; And then things will get even more entertaining." <br><br>He chuckled darkly at that, his other hand sliding to the back of her head.&nbsp; His thrusts increased in pace and depth, his cock pushing deeper and deeper into her mouth until his balls began pressing against her chin.&nbsp; His cock seemed to grow harder as his shaft slid past her lips and along her tongue, and he growled once again as he pushed his cock to the back of her throat, holding her head in place, her lips at the base of his cock.<br><br>A moment later, he pulled back, a thin trail of saliva trailing from her luscious lips to the head of his cock.&nbsp; He grinned widely, and knelt down next to her, pressing his lips to her own once more.&nbsp; He kissed her deeply, one hand sliding between her legs.&nbsp; His eager fingers found her cunt, and he began rubbing her clit hard and fast as he kissed her.&nbsp; He slid a finger past her folds, feeling the wetness inside of her, while his thumb kept rotating over her clit.<br><br>Pulling back from their kiss after a long moment, the fingers in her hair tugged back, raising her gaze to meet his own.&nbsp; He held her gaze, his dark eyes boring into her own, while his fingers caressed her folds.<br><br>"What do you say, Abby?" he asked, grinning hungrily.&nbsp; "Are you ready for someone to make you into more than just a saloon whore?&nbsp; How far will Lola take you before she dumps you for someone younger?&nbsp; What if you get pregnant?&nbsp; Tell me you want what I have to offer, Abby.&nbsp; Tell me how badly you want it..."<br><br>As though to accentuate his point, his fingers began moving in and out of her quickly, moving harder and faster, ready to make her cum.&nbsp; His hard cock stood rigid and eager, the tip pressing against her stomach as he knelt next to her.&nbsp; 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Lola's (Lilly, Aemirys, Breathless Intent, Rolo &amp; Dark Clown)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Aemirys</strong> on <strong>30-01-2012, 14:13:36</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				With Jackson's masculine form pinning her against the bed she felt a animalistic surge wash over her.... Finally a man who could equal her in bed, she thought, thrusting her whole being against Jackson as wave after wave of pleasure washed through her. <br><br>With each rough thrust she sought her own escape from the constant demons that hounded her. Perched on the cusp of climax was the place she found she could be free of them, so she hunted down that pleasure like a wild cat hunting for it's final meal before starvation hit. <br><br>Somewhere in the back of her mind she wondered what Jackson was running from.<br><br>As they lay there spent together exultant in their release, pinned underneath Jackson's powerful form she looked up into his eyes, for once all the pretenses' she wore discarded....<br><br>A vulnerable and wounded Layla beneath him.<br><br>With her knowing words matched only by the pained and soulful look in her eyes she asked him, "and what are you running from lover?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Lola's (Lilly, Aemirys, Breathless Intent, Rolo &amp; Dark Clown)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Breathless Intent</strong> on <strong>12-02-2012, 05:05:27</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Self-satisfaction swelled within Abby’s bare breast, a sense of power taking her for a brief moment as the sounds of lusty appreciation rumbled from the man she knelt before. When he began to speak, the lashing ministrations of her tongue stilled for a brief moment, a flash of irritation lighting her eyes at his description of her as one of&nbsp; “Lola’s distractions,” as though she were merely a common whore. She was about to pull off and say as much, but his next words made her nearly redouble her efforts to please him. Her mind was a jumble of questions. <em>Is Lola selling to King? Is King really going to run the saloon? If so, why is Lola trying to distract him? What did this all mean for <strong>me</strong>? </em><br><br>With each passing moment and each growling sound from his throat, that initial sense of power was stripped away. The questions lingered, but were pushed aside by more immediate concerns. King’s hands were gripping her head as he thrust his rigid length deep inside, the thick head sliding further beyond her point of comfort. The light touch of her left hand on his thigh had become more forceful as she attempted to push him away or give him some indication that he was taking her too hard. In the swirling heat of his lust, that weak refusal went unheeded. Finally her face was pressed firmly against him, the full length of his throbbing cock filling her mouth and entering the back of her throat. Red-rimmed blue eyes swam with wetness as she struggled to keep from choking while simultaneously trying to continue pleasing him. <br><br>Just as she teetered on the edge of panic, King pulled himself from her mouth. Abby knelt with her bruised mouth open and smeared with the wetness of her saliva, gasping in mouthfuls of air. Mid-breath, Kings mouth slid over hers, taking her with his lips and tongue. Between their joined mouths, a gasping cry surged forth as his fingers found her center. Whimpering and writhing, her hips ground down against his thrusting fingers the unmistakably slick sound of her arousal matching the wet slapping of their kiss. When he pulled back, lust clouded eyes struggled to focus on his face while her body continued to rock eagerly into his touch. <br><br>His string of questions confused her, putting images into her head of the worst possible outcome. She had come to Lola’s to escape the possibility of those very eventualities but here he was saying that they were just around the corner. Rationally, she knew that he was misconstruing things. Lola never forced her to whore herself out and certainly had never indicated that she would toss her out for not doing so. But the tone of King’s voice and the look in those dark eyes had her mind racing with fear. To top it all off, the sudden burst of his fingers working in and out of her body left her quivering and bucking forward, without much attention left to give thoughtful consideration. Instead, she gave into what he was saying, wrapping herself in the fantasy of his promise, “Yes! Yes, Sir! Please!” She didn’t know what it was he was offering, what he might be promising her, but she knew in her bones that she wanted it desperately. <br><br>With that thought in mind, her hand reached between their kneeling bodies and wrapped tightly around his thick shaft. Her fingers stroked madly over him, pumping in time with the speed set by his thrusting fingers. The slickness coating her belly where his head pressed against ivory skin added another level of lurid pleasure to their actions, increasing Abby’s pleasure to new heights. At some point her free hand reached down to grip him, attempting to force his fingers in deeper, and found that the wetness of her arousal was dripping down his fingers and wetting his palm and wrist. The curling stroke of his long fingers into that hidden center finally sent her over the edge. Throwing her head back, a primal cry of passion tore from her mouth while the slick walls of her body clamped tightly around his touch. <br><br>Gasping and moaning in the continuing pulses of her orgasm, she leaned forward against King to keep herself from crumbling. The hand on his cock had slowed as she was focused on her pleasure but soon her fingers were pressing and sliding along his length again. Her lips found his neck and shoulder, licking and kissing at his salty skin as she murmured encouragement for him to reach his own orgasm.&nbsp; 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Lola's - IC</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mr Self Destruct</strong> on <strong>15-02-2012, 03:53:39</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Desmond grinned as Abby came, her orgasm an explosion of bliss that erupted from her body with a rush of cum and a loud cry.&nbsp; He pulled his fingers from her wet cunt, bringing them to his lips and licking her juices from them before his hands went to her breasts.&nbsp; He squeezed them tightly, his fingers massaging the twin mounds of flesh while she began to stroke him, coaxing him to reach his own orgasm.<br><br>But Desmond would not be denied that which he'd worked so hard to create.&nbsp; He stood, his hands hooking beneath her arms and dragging her weary body up with him.&nbsp; He pushed her down onto her stomach on the bed, his rough, calloused hands squeezing her backside for a moment before he slapped her rump, his grin widening.&nbsp; Then, one hand rising to grab a thick handful of her red hair, he pushed his hard cock past her folds and into her hot wet cunt.<br><br>He began fucking her hard and fast, his foreplay finished and his passion near to exploding.&nbsp; There was no gentle caress or teasing touches now.&nbsp; Now, he wanted to fuck, and he was doing just that.&nbsp; His thick cock plunged deeply into her again and again, his rhythm increasing with each thrust, his heavy balls rubbing against her thighs as he fucked her.<br><br>The hand in her hair tightened then, and he pulled her head back, forcing her gaze to meet his own.&nbsp; He leaned forward then, and pressed his lips to her own, kissing her deeply and roughly, his hips continuing to pound into her.&nbsp; He growled into the kiss, feeling his balls tighten and his cock throb inside of her.&nbsp; Then, with a loud cry, he pulled out of her and came, his hand stroking his shaft furiously until his seed sprayed out in thick, hot globules along her ass.<br><br>Despite his heavy breathing, the grin along his face was that of a wolf having conquered its mate.&nbsp; He chuckled, stepping away from her, his fingers uncoiling from her hair as his cock dribbled more of his thick cum along her thighs.&nbsp; He turned, fumbling around in his coat for a moment, before he sat in the chair beside the bed, a rolled cigarette dangling between two fingers.&nbsp; He slid it between his lips and struck a match, touching the flame to the tip before waving the match's flame into nothing but a small puff of smoke.<br><br>Taking a deep drag off the smoke, he glanced to Abby and grinned.<br><br>"Stick with me, sweetheart..." he said, taking another draw before offering her the cigarette.&nbsp; "Things in this town are going to be changing, and soon.&nbsp; It's best to be on the winning team when they do."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Lola's - IC</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Rolo</strong> on <strong>15-02-2012, 17:37:37</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Jackson laid on top Layla, his chest heaved to regain breath, as she milked his cock of his ebbing orgasm.&nbsp; Slowly his tight muscles gave way to the exhaustion of the trail.&nbsp; Her question distracted him from his thoughts as he rolled off of her.<br><br>"Ghosts older than you Darlin'," he said with the intention of keeping his feelings for Abby private.<br><br>Jackson swung his feet to the side of the bed and stood.&nbsp; He wandered over to his saddle bags and retrieved a slender cigar.&nbsp; His naked frame cast a shadow across the room when he lit the cigar on the oil lamp.&nbsp; He took a couple long drags until he was sure it was lit.&nbsp; The intoxicating smoke filled his lungs and left in a long exaggerated exhale.&nbsp; The relaxation mingled with the fatigue that was taking over.&nbsp; He then moved to his coat hanging on the wall and he reached in the pocket and found a wad of folded bills.&nbsp; He took a sawbuck from the stack and laid in on the table before he returned to the bed.<br><br>Jackson sat back down on the bed and leaned against the head board.&nbsp; He pulled Layla's arm across his waist and continued to puff on the little cigar.&nbsp; His free hand stroked her hair as she nestled against his torso.&nbsp; He looked over her bare body with a slight smile, certain he had found a reasonable substitute for the comforts of Abby.&nbsp; <em>Maybe Lola will get off my ass now.</em>&nbsp; <br><br>His eyes grew heavy as he sat there in reflection.&nbsp; He set the cigar in the wash basin on the night stand and allowed sleep to consume him.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Lola's - IC</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Loves</strong> on <strong>15-02-2012, 21:08:37</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/life/images/attachement/jpg/site1/20080403/0013729c050d095e810109.jpg)</div> Evelyn Miller known to most as Eve, and to the lucky rare few as Evie, sat among the patrons of the popular saloon, attentively holding a polite smile that skillfully feigned her amusement. Her soft painted lips combined with the voluptuous swell of her breasts, were enough of a distraction to preserve her secret, effectively evading the truth found buried in her expressive honey brown eyes.&nbsp; <br><br>Perched upon the knee of a well-dressed, older man, with one hand draped along the back the plush chair, currently occupied by Hank Thompson, a regular to Lola’s during his many stopovers to Silver City. A highly successful business man, Hank demanded the best offerings in life, preferring the understated elegance of the cool blonde at his side opposed to the flashy sexuality decorating some of the more presumptuous younger models.&nbsp; Evelyn fully understood his needs. Image was important and what pleasures of the flesh they would, at times, participate in would be concealed in the privacy of her room, restricted from the prying eyes that may look for an opportunity to prosper from his indiscretion. <br><br>Evelyn was no amateur when it came to the roll of mistress. Her grasp of the unspoken rules were that of a seasoned warrior, knowing when to speak and when to remain silent and consistently offering something pretty to look upon had lined her pocket with various sparkling precious gifts as well as padding the overall take at Lola’s. Currently the attractive blonde was happy to sit silently, allowing the men at her table to concentrate on a game of risk. Her golden brown eyes swept the room, taking the opportunity to scan the saloon, watching as some of the less experience girls entice the coins from the well-worn pockets of the town’s men.&nbsp; The elegant curl of her lips never once waivered, concealing any show of distaste at some of the more brazen acts committed by the young and inexperienced.&nbsp; Evelyn had learned over the years to keep her opinions to herself, unless otherwise requested by Lola.&nbsp; Her expression was frozen; set in salutation as she presented herself as what could be easily mistaken as a bona fide lady, had her environment not been that of a saloon lounge.&nbsp; <br><br>As a silent observer, Evelyn watched as Layla and Abbey vied for the attention of Jackson, a regular and good friend of Lola’s. If only she could be at a closer vantage point, for the fire that erupted in Abbey’s eyes was strong enough to be felt clear across the room. Evie’s lips twitched, threatening to betray her amusement with the younger girls, causing her to drop her head slightly in order to hide the laughter dancing in her eyes.&nbsp; Returning her attention to those at her table, Evelyn offered a teasing smile to one of the card players sitting directly across from her, effectively causing his attention to dwindle from the game at hand, and allowing the tell from his bluff to show.&nbsp; <br><br>Abandoning her flirtatious game and giving way to curiosity, her eyes moved from his smiling face, unaware that with one smile she had cost him the game, and swept the bustling room. Evelyn felt the shiver run along the full length of her spine as she spied her friend and employer talking to the very dangerous Desmond King, a man Evelyn instinctively took great care in avoiding. She watched them with great interest, concealed under a thick veil of lashes.&nbsp; Unfortunately the distance between herself and the conversing couple was far too great for Evelyn to grasp the nature of their exchange. However the body language came in loud and clear. Lola was not happy. Evelyn made a mental note to see if there was something she might do to assist the saloon’s proprietor as soon as the opportunity presented itself. <br><br>Evelyn’s private observations were interrupted with the sound of loud laughter erupting from the table of gamblers as once again Hank had won the pot.&nbsp; Leaning his large frame towards the center of the table, extending his meaty arms out in order to frame the pile of gold, Hank chuckled gleefully sweeping his take towards his placement on the circular table.&nbsp; The movement had Evelyn pushed forward at the waist, presenting her plentiful bosom to the men that joined in a friendly game of chance, offering them a small consolation, and smoothing the sting of their loss with her feminine temptations. <br><br>“This here filly is my golden charm I tell ya!” Hank boasted in a loud and booming voice, one hand sweeping his take into a neat pile as the other curled possessively around Evelyn’s waist.&nbsp; The show of affection continued as Evie raised a slim hand to stroke along his bearded face, responding in a gentle tone emphasizing the feigned docile femininity he enjoyed. <br><br><strong>”Buy a round of whisky Mr. Thompson?&nbsp; I’m sure it will go a long way in easing the loss with your generosity.” </strong>&nbsp; His grip bit into her cloth covered flesh as he showed his agreement with a quick deceive nod. It was a small gesture, but one that would give her reason to escape his clammy grasp without becoming offensive.&nbsp; His reward was increased by evidence of his smile, upon finding Eve’s soft lips pressed against his cheek as she gracefully raised from her place on his lap. <strong>“Gentlemen! I promise to return with refreshments, the finest whisky in all of Silver City!</strong> As she moved away from the table Evie graced them with one last flirtatious smile and a teasing remark, <strong>”and just maybe…if you’re lucky…a few friends might come along, to help ease your pains.”</strong>&nbsp; Her promise punctuated with a sassy wink, Evelyn waltzed off towards the bar without looking back, the sound of raucous laughter chasing her steps and the feeling of several pairs of eyes burning her backside as they took great pleasure watching the soft sway of her female form as it weaved through the crowd.<br><br>Keeping a pleasant smile upon her pretty face, Evelyn moved through the crowd as gracefully as a dancer, taking note of the absence of both Layla and Abbey, curiosity getting the better of her with the even more notable absence of Jackson.&nbsp; A wicked thought flashed in her honey brown eyes, highlighting the golden flecks within as sultry, erotic images of all three entangled in a lustful embrace danced in her mind.&nbsp; In an attempt to regain her composure Evie raised her slim hand, mindlessly fanning her heated skin, kissed by the fever of her passionate thought.&nbsp; It took a moment or two before she was able to reclaim her sanity taking notice another absence, that of Mr. King. It was that absence that chilled her body, halting all further thoughts pertaining to the wanton cravings of the flesh.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Lola's - IC</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Miss Lilly</strong> on <strong>18-02-2012, 05:57:42</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				A quick glance at the grandfather clock on the landing above the bar, one of the few family heirlooms that Lola possessed, told her it was nearly midnight.&nbsp; Surely Jackson had finished up his 'business' with Layla by now. He certainly hadn't seemed in the mood to take his time when he stormed away from her after their argument earlier.&nbsp; But then Lola hadn't seen Layla return to the saloon floor either.&nbsp; A quick scan of the room made it was obvious that she wasn't there.&nbsp; The young women was by far the tallest girl on Lola's staff, and easily spotted in a crowd.&nbsp; Chewing her bottom lip indecisively, Lola knew she had to talk to Jackson tonight.&nbsp; What King had said to her, coupled with her short conversation with Bill, made waiting any longer a foolish act of pride.<br><br>Lola caught Evie's eye as she approached the bar, letting her most trusted employee know with nothing more than a look that she needed to talk to her.&nbsp; Evelyn was Lola's greatest success story.&nbsp; They had arrived in Silver City together, with no man accompanying them, nor one waiting to meet them.&nbsp; It wasn't exactly a scandal, but had created quite a stir at the time.&nbsp; Lola remembered the shy slip of a girl that she'd found abandoned at the train station, all her hopes and dreams already crushed at the tender age of sixteen.&nbsp; Despite having no children of her own, Lola's maternal instincts had kicked in, and although it had taken Evie some time to relax and trust the older woman, here they were seven or so years later, as close as sisters.<br><br>Leaning in close to avoid being overheard, Lola tried to keep the strain out of her voice. <br><br>"I need to talk to Jackson.&nbsp; Can you keep an eye on things down here for a while?"&nbsp; She knew she didn't need to ask, but didn't ever want Evie to feel like she was being taken for granted.&nbsp; "It's important, so I'm not sure how long I'll be."&nbsp; Lola tried to smile reassuringly, knowing full well that her young prodigy would be reading between the lines, and would suspect that something was wrong.&nbsp; "Everything's fine, truly."&nbsp; Giving Evie's back a reassuring rub as she left, Lola headed upstairs, the sense of dread that had seeped into her via Bill growing with every step.<br><br>Pausing outside Jackson's room, Lola took a deep, steadying breath.&nbsp; She didn't want him to see just how much this King business had shaken her up.&nbsp; Jackson could be a hot head at times, and the last thing she needed was him being a hero and trying to take care of the problem immediately, in his own special way. King wasn't one of his bounties, and had to be handled correctly.&nbsp; Lola sensed that a full on assult of the man would do nothing but make the situation worse, if that were possible.&nbsp; She asked herself again if involving Jackson was the smart thing to do, but she really had no choice.&nbsp; He was the only man she could truly trust.<br><br>Sure that she could hear no sounds of activity on the other side of the door, Lola knocked softly.&nbsp; It was unlikely Layla was still there.&nbsp; If she were, there'd definitely be tell tale noises emanating from the room.&nbsp; She wasn't exactly shy when it came to being loud in the bedroom.&nbsp; Getting no response to her knock, and confident that he was alone, Lola gently turned the doorknob and walked quietly through the door.&nbsp; If Jackson was asleep...and she hoped he wasn't...she'd wait and talk to him in the morning.<br><br>The sight of her newest girl curled up and asleep in Jackson's arms drove all rational thought from Lola's mind.&nbsp; She slammed the door violently behind her, the noise loud enough to startle the sleeping couple awake.&nbsp; Anger burned like fire in Lola's eyes, and if looks could kill, Layla would have been dead on the spot.&nbsp; The young woman knew, before Lola even opened her mouth, that she was in big trouble.&nbsp; She'd been caught breaking Lola's most golden of rules.&nbsp; Scrambling out of the bed, Layla stammered an apology while trying to get back into her dress.<br><br>"Don't bother," Lola spat, her voice low and menacing.&nbsp; "Get your things and get out of here."&nbsp; It was on the tip of her tongue to banish the young woman completely, but she couldn't bring herself to condemn Layla to a life working in a place like Trixie's, where whoring wasn't just expected, but required.&nbsp; "Until you learn to respect my rules, your services on the floor will no longer be required.&nbsp; From now on, you'll be working in the kitchen.&nbsp; And heaven help you if you step one foot out of line in there, Missy! You'll be out on your ass quicker than you can drop your drawers!"&nbsp; Never once did Lola raise her voice, but in no way did that lessen the impact of her anger.&nbsp; Layla quivered under the force of her gaze, and hurried out of the room, not even bothering to button her dress.&nbsp; Once the door had closed behind her, Lola turned her attention to Jackson, who, in her estimation, was just as much at fault as the girl who'd just left.<br><br>"What the hell are you doing, Jackson?&nbsp; You know my rules!&nbsp; You know the girls are not allowed to stay the night!&nbsp; Hell, if I thought I could properly enforce it, there'd be no whorin' at all!&nbsp; I tolerate it, barely, but I will NOT tolerate..." she gestured wildly around the room..."THIS!"&nbsp; Although not yet shouting, her voice had risen noticeably.&nbsp; The small woman was uncharacteristically angry, and it seemed that she was just getting started.&nbsp; "If you want whores in your bed all night, then perhaps Trixie's would be the best place for you!!"<br><br>Realising that she may have gone too far, and that Jackson wasn't likely to take kindly to her berating him so, she covered her face with her hands, unable to stop the tears that had been threatening to fall ever since he'd stormed out on her earlier.&nbsp; Giving in to the stress and strain of the evening, Lola crumpled to the floor, her skirts mushrooming around her.&nbsp; <br><br>"Oh, Jackson," she sobbed from behind her hands.&nbsp; "What on earth am I going to do?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Lola's - IC</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Loves</strong> on <strong>18-02-2012, 09:26:30</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The look in Lola’s eyes was enough on its own to express her need for Eve’s assistance. There would be no need for elaborate or wild gestures to gain the blonde’s attention. Without a second thought to the promise she had given Hank and his friends, Eve made her way towards the petite brunette. Her curious brown eyes continued to search out the missing Mr. King, positive he had something to do with the uneasy flicker hiding in Lola’s eyes. <br><br>"I need to talk to Jackson.&nbsp; Can you keep an eye on things down here for a while?"<br><br>Eve simply nodded her head in agreement, offering a soft and encouraging smile. She would do anything Lola asked, no matter what the favor, no questions asked. She had vowed to have the other girls back a long time ago, and in the seven years they have been friends, Evelyn could honestly say she hadn’t let Lola down yet. It was a vow she had taken seriously with no intention of breaking. <br><br>"It's important, so I'm not sure how long I'll be."<br><br>Reaching a slim hand to cover the wrist of her friend and employer Evelyn smiled, squeezing gently to offer a silent show of support. Speaking in a hushed whisper so not to be overheard Evie tried to bestow a note of confidence in her friend, letting her know that whatever the problem was, there was at least one person ready to fight alongside of her, right to the bitter end. <strong>”Take as long as you need Lola. I can handle this lot with one hand tied behind my back. Actually, that might not be a good idea considering some of the men in this room.”</strong> The soft smile that decorated her pretty face didn’t hide the concern that filled the honey brown of her kind eyes. As always, Lola was aware of the truth hidden behind the mask, extending her arm to place a reassuring rub against the silk coverings of Eve’s back.<br><br>“Everything's fine, truly."&nbsp; <br><br>Three words spoken softly, yet with enough conviction to put Eve’s worries on the back burner, still not totally convinced everything was well in Silver City, yet willing to believe that things were at the very least reasonably well. The unknown had always been a source of anxiety for Evelyn. She watched as Lola took the stairs, tracking her with soft brown eyes swimming with trepidation.&nbsp; <br><br>At the tender age of sixteen she had been filled with adventure and romantic ideals. Taking a train across country towards her future armed with nothing but a few dresses and a picnic basket loaded with chicken and cornbread. A soft smile tugged at the corners of her lips, smiling at the memories that flooded her mind as it flashed snap shots of her first meeting with Lola. The memories were bittersweet, as one dream died to give birth to a new ambition. A shiver ran along the elegant curve of Eve’s back at the unwelcome thought of what might have become of her had she not been rescued that day. <br><br>Whatever didn’t kill you made you stronger, words that Eve would live her life by. Pushing the uneasy feeling to the back of her mind, Eve turned her attention to her duties, after all a promise was a promise, and she was not about to let her friend down.&nbsp; With a simple roll of her shoulders, the determined blonde stood a little taller, pushing her breasts out as she smoothed the silk along her slim waist, highlighting her hour-glass figure. She painted on a playful smile, presenting the room her stage persona, brighter than the sun, alluring and attractive, with an aura of being impervious to scandal, glowing with confidence. <br><br>Signalling one of the new additions to Lola’s over with an easy crook of her finger, Evelyn slipped into the role of entertainer, speaking at first with a hushed voice, instructing the girl to take care of the promise still waiting to be fulfilled. <strong>”Take a tray of whiskeys over to Hank and his buddies, take a few girls with you and show them our appreciation Lola’s style, understand? Be sure to send Hank my apologies with some special attention, Let him know something came up…he’ll understand.”</strong><br><br>With a soft push of encouragement to start the doe-eyed sweetheart on her way, Eve turned to the room, smiling with a mischievous glint in her eyes. <strong>”They say there are ten men waiting on me tonight!"</strong> she called to the room at large, her tone carefully crafted with a spirited tune.<strong>”One of you will have to go home, I’m tired!”</strong> Several men laughed, joking with each other as to who would be the sorry son of a bitch that would have to walk that walk of shame. <strong>”Now boys, I can’t stand to see those sad faces… buy a lady a drink and let’s see where the mood takes us! You only live once, but if you do it right, once is enough!"</strong> Punctuating her banter with an equally suggestive wink, Eve moved about the room, strutting and crooning, playing up to each punter one by one, enticing them to dip further into their pockets, each one hoping to impress the buxom blonde into setting their lust free, bringing their dreams to life.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Lola's - IC</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Breathless Intent</strong> on <strong>23-02-2012, 09:38:38</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				The soft wet sound of King’s fingers drawing free from Abby’s body were joined by the whimpering gasps of her recovery. When his greedy inelegant hands found her breasts, she continued working and idly hoped that his release would come soon now that the afterglow of her own was starting to fade. As he stood, Abby braced herself to lean forward and take him in her mouth again. However, when his strong hands dragged her upright, she knew what he had in mind next. What she hadn’t expected was the loud crack of his hand on her upturned rear. Gasping in shock, her body tensed just as he thrust fully within her. A gasping cry ensued, the combination of his fingers wound in those coppery tendrils and the urgent pounding of his cock into her silken walls surprising her past the lull of her receding orgasm. <br><br>Pushing herself up onto her elbows, Abby tilted her hips and arched her back sharply to allow him full access to her body.&nbsp; As the grip in her hair dragged her head back, she whimpered and extended her arms to prop herself up on her palms while he savagely took her mouth. The odd angle was difficult to maintain, but his firm grasp did not allow any leeway and the powerful crush of his lips mirrored the strength of his pounding hips. Straining and sore, she just barely restrained a moan of relief when King pulled out and the thick drops of his cum warmed her skin. Gasping in breaths, she lay on her stomach for a long while, her hair in a wild array of disheveled curls and her ass gleaming with the white wetness of King’s seed. Finally regaining her capacity for thought and action, she rose from her position on the bed and filled a ceramic basin with water from the matching pitcher set on the bedside table. <br><br>Washing herself with the water and a slip of cloth found on the nightstand, she took those moments to reflect on what had transpired over the last hour. The soreness between her legs rekindled that earlier flash of vindictive anger toward Lola, causing Abby to mull over King’s comments harder. She had just been used like one of Trixie’s trollops, what was to say that Lola wouldn’t make this type of “request” more often? And what if she did get pregnant? Who wanted a pregnant barmaid bouncing on their knee? And what would she do with a child anyway? Frowning into the basin of water, Abby resolved that fate would not befall her. <br><br>King’s words drew her out of her silent musings, pulling her dark blue gaze over her bare shoulder to meet his stare. His insinuation that she was invited to join his “team” put a little spark of confidence in her. Abby’s usually cheery smile returned to her lips as she turned to face him, her flawless nude form sashaying across the room to accept the offered cigarette. Plucking it from his fingers, she lowered herself onto his lap and wound an arm around his shoulder, fingers working up through the long dark hair at his neck. After taking a shallow drag, she offered it back to him with her smile still in place, “I am quite fond of winning, Mr. King. I would be honored to be on any team of yours.” Still stroking those lithe fingers through his dark locks, she peered up curiously into his face, the image of wide-eyed innocence (so long as one did not take note of her distinct lack of clothing or the scent of sex in the air). “So what changes are we talking about, sir? You thinking of running for mayor or becoming sheriff?” Hoping to draw a little information out of him, she used all of the feminine wiles available to her in that moment, hoping desperately that he would reveal something that would shed a little light on what was going on. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Lola's - IC</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Rolo</strong> on <strong>24-02-2012, 17:56:07</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				Jackson woke with a start when the door slammed.&nbsp; He searched the landscape for his sidearm to ward off the unknown danger.&nbsp; Rare was it for his guns to be out of reach, but the fatigue of the trail and warmth of the young woman's flesh allowed him to let his guard down.&nbsp; A mistake that could have cost him his life, and not one that he planned to make again anytime soon.<br><br>Finally his eyes focused on the intruder, and he saw the fire and anger in Lola's eyes.&nbsp; Layla's hastened exit from the bed had him disoriented and confused until he heard Lola's voice as she admonished the young beauty.&nbsp; He watched Layla's as she scrambled to get dressed and escape the wrath of her employer.<br><br>"For Christ's sake, knock it off Gertie," he said and hoped the use of the nickname of her proper name, Gertrude, would get her attention.&nbsp; Jackson rose from the bed and grabbed the bed cover and wrapped it around his lower body.&nbsp; <br><br>"Leave that poor girl alone and hand me my britches over there.&nbsp; She wasn't gonna spend the night, we was just restin' for a bit before I rolled her over and fucked her again," he spoke harshly and tried to cover for Layla.&nbsp; <br><br>He watched as Lola continued to berate the now half clothed girl and ignored his request for his pants.&nbsp; He walked to the chair by the table and picked his pants off the back and stepped into them before he pulled them up and buttoned them around his waist.&nbsp; He grabbed Layla's arm as she raced for the door and planted a kiss on her lips.&nbsp; He could see the fear in her eyes as tears welled up in them.<br><br>"Don't worry Darlin', I'll calm her down," he reassured her before letting her slip out the door.<br><br>He closed the door behind her and turned in time to see Lola slump to the floor and begin to sob.&nbsp; Her tears knocked the spite out of his heart as he took a concerned stance over her.&nbsp; He lifted her up and set her on the edge to bed, before he retrieved his half smoked cigar.&nbsp; He took a match from his pocket and struck it on the wall to light up.&nbsp; He took a chair and turned it around and straddled the seat to face Lola.<br><br>"What have you gotten yourself into now?," he said with a concerned voice.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Lola's - IC</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Miss Lilly</strong> on <strong>26-02-2012, 01:52:15</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				Lola was angry enough at finding Layla in Jackson's bed that she didn't even notice him call her Gertie.&nbsp; Normally, the merest utterance of that hated name was enough to earn him a severe tongue lashing, but she had other, more pressing, matters on her mind tonight.&nbsp; Realising she was showing signs of weakness, something she abhored, the distraught woman tried to get her whirling emotions under control.&nbsp; Or, at the very least, stop this ridiculous sobbing! She fished a lacey hankerchief from her cleavage and patted her eyes dry.<br><br>By the time she was calm enough to explain, she was perched on the edge of the bed and Jackson had half smoked the remnant of his cigar.&nbsp; She took a long, slow, calming breath, tried to organise her thoughts, and began.<br><br>"I don't know how...or why...but Desmond King, have you heard of him?"&nbsp; Lola watched Jacskon for any sign that he recognised the name of the man who, in her estimation, was as notorious as the bounty he had just claimed.&nbsp; "Desmond King has purchased the land that <em>Lola's</em> sits on, and is threatening to order the removal of the saloon.&nbsp; MY saloon!! He says there are 'other options' and that he's certain we can 'work out some sort of bargain'.&nbsp; As if I'd ever bargain with that desert rat,"&nbsp; she spat, her ample breast heaving with emotion as her anger at King grew.&nbsp; She paused momentarily to reign in her anger. <br><br>"Jackson," she whispered. "I'm scared. He's put the heavy on Bill....he owns the stockfeed...." Her bottom lip trembled slightly as she remembered the hopeless look on the face of the normally jovial man.&nbsp; "And now he's doing the same to me.&nbsp; What am I going to do?&nbsp; I can't lose <em>Lola's</em>!" 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Lola's - IC</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mr Self Destruct</strong> on <strong>27-02-2012, 22:19:53</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				King took a deep drag off of his cigarette, and exhaled heavily, watching as Abby began to wash herself down with water from the basin on the nearby table.&nbsp; Watching her drag the wet cloth across her pale skin was almost intoxicating, and for a moment, the man thought to take her again, then and there, without giving her a chance to catch her breath.&nbsp; Instead, he kept his dark eyes fixed on the woman, and slowly smoked his cigarette in silence.<br><br>When she came toward him, her lithe hips and ample bosom swaying with every step, it was all he could do to keep his hands to himself.&nbsp; She pulled the cigarette from his grasp as she slid into his lap, her free hand rising to caress his own dark locks, and King couldn’t help but smile at the effort she was placing into further seducing him.&nbsp; Women were often masters at getting what they wanted, at using their feminine wiles to get men to do for them what they couldn’t do for themselves.&nbsp; But King was a master manipulator, and knew that true power was taking what you wanted, rather than coercing others to do it for you.<br><br>“I am now the sole owner of the very dirt beneath this saloon…” he said flatly, his dark gaze holding her own.&nbsp; “Lola’s is mine, whether its current proprietor wishes to admit it or not.&nbsp; I could demolish this place and leave everyone in here to fend for themselves.&nbsp; Or, someone can talk to Lola, get her to see reason, and to barter with me to keep what she’s worked so hard to create.”<br><br>He smirked, and winked at Abby briefly before taking back the cigarette from her fingers.&nbsp; He inhaled deeply, before he stood, sliding her from his lap and moving across to the table.&nbsp; He poured another glass of whiskey, and slowly sipped it as he moved toward the nearby window.&nbsp; He stared out into the street below, his dark gaze fixed on the townsfolk that milled about, and he couldn’t help the slow grin that began to form on his face.<br><br>“I’ve got bigger plans than just taking this place from Lola…” he admitted.&nbsp; “This entire city is going to be mine, Abby.&nbsp; There will be those who will think to stand against me, like that Jackson fool, but they will only be bumps in the road.&nbsp; In the end, everything in this town will be mine…it’s already begun.”<br><br><div align="center">_______________________________________</div><br>A sudden shriek erupted from the streets below, and it was quickly followed by the heavy footfalls of the townsfolk as they ran to see what was wrong.&nbsp; There, just off the street that Lola’s resides upon, a limp form hung from a short noose, the end tied to the thick, wooden lamp post on the street corner.&nbsp; The lifeless form of the local stock feed owner, Bill, hung heavily at the noose’s end, his head turned grotesquely to one side, his lifeless eyes staring at the ground beneath him.<br><br>His wife, often reputed to take out her frustrations at the struggles of living in the west on her husband, wailed loudly, her hands tearing out her hair, her face covered in tears.&nbsp; There were those who tried to comfort her, but she was inconsolable, smacking away any comforting hands that came her way.<br><br>Even though none would dare say it to his face, the talk had begun immediately…King was to blame.&nbsp; It was common knowledge that Bill owned the single largest stock feed in the region, and his claims to the nearby farmland kept any possible competitors from getting a foothold in the area.&nbsp; But with Bill dead, the land was available for purchase, and it wouldn’t be long before the land was bought up and the townsfolk were none the wiser.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Lola's - IC</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Rolo</strong> on <strong>28-02-2012, 20:39:00</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Jackson listened intently as Lola told her story through abbreviated sobs.<br><br>"King?&nbsp; Not familiar with him, and as far as I know, there is no legal bounty on his head," he spoke reflectively.&nbsp; "Wait!&nbsp; Is that the polecat that you sent my Ab... I mean the you sent Abby up to?," his voice grew with anger at the thought of Abby with such an asshole and the fact that Lola sent her to him.&nbsp; He was not unaccustomed to Abby sharing her bed with other men, but for the most part Jackson approved of them, and knew that it was part of the life of a saloon girl.&nbsp; His hidden demons prevented him from taking her from the life and making an honest woman of her.&nbsp; That and Lola had threatened him within an inch of his life if he took one of her best girls.<br><br>"I will send word to Tom at the U.S. Marshals office in the morning to see if he has any inform..." Before he finished his thought he was interupted by the shrill scream from the street below.&nbsp; He jumped from his seat and rushed to the window to investigate the disturbance.&nbsp; He saw the lifeless body hanging from the lamp post, and a couple of shady characters leaning up against the wall in the alleyway.&nbsp; The crowd grew around the now widowed woman crumpled in the street, wailing.<br><br>"Is that mother fucker mean enough to kill?," he questioned Lola as he retrieved his gunbelt and quickly strapped it around his waist.&nbsp; He grabbed a shirt and threw his arms into the sleeves before he lifted the window.&nbsp; He stuffed his feet into his boots and stepped onto the balcony of the saloon.&nbsp; Three strides led him to the edge where he crouched and jumped the ten feet to the ground.<br><br>When he reached the body of Bill he commanded a couple of bystanders to help him as he put the muzzle of his six shooter on the knot that held the rope to the lamp post and fired.&nbsp; The men lowered the limp body to the ground and Jackson stood and looked around wildly for any sign of a guilty party.&nbsp; The two figures in the alley retreated into the darkness as Jackson started walking their way.&nbsp; He looked up and saw the silhouetted figure staring out of Abby's window.&nbsp; His blood ran cold at the thought of the evil looking down at the street.<br><br>He abandoned his pursuit of the dark strangers in the alley and turned down the street towards the Sheriff's office.&nbsp; If that old bastard would not take notice of his town now, then Jackson was determined to take over.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Lola's - IC</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Loves</strong> on <strong>29-02-2012, 19:03:36</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Evelyn was proud of how she was handling the floor, working hard to represent Lola in her absence, skillfully manipulating the lonely and desperate in order to line the tills with gold. It was amazing just how fast a cowboy was willing to dive into his pocket after a little affection from the pretty blonde.&nbsp; She was encouraging a local boy to part with his hard earned coin when the saloon’s door burst open to reveal another wide-eyed townie.&nbsp; His shouts of terror showed the sign of stress as his voice shrilled over the noisy saloon, calling out for any and all willing and able bodies to help. His cry was instantly rewarded as the room exploded with activity. Body’s reacted in various degrees, from curious onlookers who wanted nothing more than to witness the gruesome find, to those willing to jump to their feet and face the danger head on, no matter what it may be.<br>&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;<br>Currently Evelyn was perched on the knee of one such brave sort, his hat sitting upon her golden locks as she ran her fingers through his thick strands. She had been working his ego, adeptly aware of the tricks required to draw him in, creating the illusion that she had chosen him, out of all others in the saloon, to lay with. To those lucky enough to experience her charms, they would be encouraged to part with a small investment, well worth the efforts it would bring. Those who couldn’t afford to gain her attention would have to learn to live with disappointment, appeased by the small display of affection as she coupled them with other, less experienced girls.<br>&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;<br>It was a well known fact that Evelyn was choosey as to whom she bedded, a lesser known fact was that those she did couple with, she did so only after establishing private monetary gain. The blonde seductress knew how to look out for herself. Although she trusted Lola with her life, Evelyn had been quietly lining her own pockets with such luxuries as silks and furs, to gold coins and precious jewels, accepting each offering as a gift from her lovers in order to negate the nagging voice that disapproved of her actions.<br>&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;<br>However, from time to time something would happen to bring the lovely blonde crashing back to earth, normally whenever her ego grew a shade past her reality. This would be one of those times. Perched on the knee of one of the many that wouldn’t see her naked form, Evelyn smiled and flirted, weeding his coins from his pocket, only to find herself unceremoniously dropped onto the hard wooden floor as he stood on guard, ready to wage war with the devil himself. Her blue eyes looked up, bewilderment showing upon her pretty features. His actions were a reminder that she was nothing more than a paid companion, a far cry from the life of a lady that she had dreamed of in her youth.<br>&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;<br>The blue of her eyes glittered with the coldness that had seeped into her heart from years of disappointment. Rising from the floor with as much dignity as she was able, Evelyn dusted off her silken robes before scanning the room with the attentiveness of a shrewd business woman, assessing the damage the outside event was having on her saloon.&nbsp; Her painted lips curled up in amusement, already seeing Lola’s as belonging to her. It wasn’t exactly a secret that Eve held the hope that one day Lola would pass the business over to Eve. Her ambition and loyalty would win out in the end; at least that was Evelyn’s hope.<br>&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;<br>Gathering a few of the girls she quickly snapped out her plan of action. Attention had to be taken from whatever was happening outside. No doubt it was a terrible tragedy for some poor towns woman, but Eve would be damned if it would take away the opportunity for business. If she spun it right, she might just be able to increase the nights take. It was a simple enough plan. Eve, along with the other girls, would turn the emotional event to their favor, hoping to tap into the very human need for comfort at times of stress and tragedy. With a subtle encouragement, they could profit on the opportunity at hand, persuading the men back into the saloon as they turned to a drink, and the arms of a pretty and willing woman, in order to ease the shock from whatever had the townsfolk in a tizzy.&nbsp; <br>&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;<br>Moving through the crowd, Evelyn made her way to the saloons doors, stepping out into the night air to survey what was happening. Her eyes grew wide at the sight of Bill Carter’s lifeless form being cut down. The sound of his horrid wife wailing at the top of her lungs punctuated the air, a sickly, mournful sound that demonstrated her angst. Her first initial thoughts were one of disappointment followed closely by the guilt of sadness. Bill had been a regular visitor to her bed, often leaving her pocket book the richer for the experience. She had been a comfort to him in ways his wife had not, and thus Eve refused to allow herself to feel an ounce of remorse for bedding a married man. <br>&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;<br>The sharp pang of guilt that stuck her side was instantly ignored as she set her plan of action into play, covering her mouth with an elegant hand, she took a step back into the arms of a willing patron. Gracefully, she pivoted, turning her face into the well toned chest of the nearest warm body, catching her breath on a sob. It was quite the performance; inwardly smiling she played up her plight as the tender, weak woman in need of a hero. One by one the girls followed her lead, turning to the strong arms of the men lining the entrance porch of the saloon, drawing them back inside for that much needed shot of comfort that came in the form of the amber liquid, sold willingly in Lola’s saloon. As with every tragedy, there came a price. Evelyn knew that more than most however, if you were lucky enough you might be able to have that price line your pocket at the expense of those searching to feel lucky enough to still be around to live another day.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Lola's - IC</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Miss Lilly</strong> on <strong>01-03-2012, 08:05:56</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Jackson's slip of the tongue was rewarded with a sharp look from Lola.&nbsp; Even in her emotional state, she didn't miss the fact that he referred to Abby as 'his'.&nbsp; It irked her no end that he seemed determined to remain hung up on the girl who, despite being lovely and very talented at her job, was nowhere near good enough for him. At least, not in Lola's estimation anyway.&nbsp; And she refused to feel guilty for sending Abby to entertain King.&nbsp; What, if anything, happened behind closed doors was of Abby's doing.&nbsp; She hadn't been instructed to do anything more than distract him.&nbsp; And she should know by now that Lola would never <em>expect</em> her girls to supply those kinds of services to the men.&nbsp; If they chose to, it was of their own volition.<br><br>Biting her tongue, she put those thoughts aside for later and listened with relief as Jackson mentioned getting more information from the Marshall's Office. She had fully expected him to charge across the hall with guns blazing.&nbsp; Lola was about to agree that that sounded like a good idea when she, too, heard what could only be a wail of grief from the street below.&nbsp; Following Jackson to the window, she was sure she recognised the figure swinging from the lamp post, and it broke her heart.<br><br>"Honestly, I don't know. But nothing would surprise me.&nbsp; That man makes my skin crawl."&nbsp; Lola couldn't drag her eyes from the lifeless body swinging gently in the summer breeze.&nbsp; The thought that it might be Bill weighed heavily on her mind.&nbsp; And if it was him, she'd bet her last dollar that it was King who was the cause.&nbsp; <br><br>"Jackson, be careful!"&nbsp; She called the warning as he jumped straight off the side of the balcony.&nbsp; There was unlikely to be any danger right now, but a feeling of impending doom had settled around Lola's heart.&nbsp; Losing a good customer like Bill was bad enough.&nbsp; Losing Jackson....well, that was a possibility that didn't bear thinking about. <br><br>Turning her back on the scene below, Lola hurried downstairs.&nbsp; News like this travelled like wildfire, and there was a good possibility that it had already reached those inside her saloon.&nbsp; There would be shock, perhaps even a mild form of panic.&nbsp; Those with families would be wanting to get home to them, to assure themselves that they were safe and sound.&nbsp; Those without families could well be looking for another type of comfort, most likely in the form of amber liquid and a soft bosom.&nbsp; Considering whether or not it would be poor form to keep <em>Lola's</em> open after such a shocking tragedy on their doorstep, Lola took the stairs almost at a run.&nbsp; <br><br>It seemed, however, that Evie had matters in hand.&nbsp; Although the general hubbub of a normal night at <em>Lola's</em> was markedly absent, there was enough activity to convince its hostess that those among her patrons who were single were most definitely in need of somewhere to be.&nbsp; At times like this, people needed to be with other people.&nbsp; And for hard working, hard playing men, the company of a pretty girl was the best distraction in the world.<br><br>Lola scanned the floor of the saloon and spotted Eve in the arms of a young cowboy, her innocent young lady shocked at the sight of death act perfectly convincing to everyone except her oldest friend.&nbsp; A quick flick of her head was the only sign Lola needed to give for Evelyn to know that she needed to see her.<br><br>"Who was it?" she asked softly when Evie managed to disentangle herself from the man who didn't seem too happy to see her go.&nbsp; "Tell me it wasn't Bill...."<br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Lola's - IC</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Loves</strong> on <strong>03-03-2012, 04:08:36</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				With her soft cheek pressed against the Cowboy’s chest, Eve presented a convincing performance, offering him a damsel in distress to take care of in order to help him feel important and needed.&nbsp; Death affected people in all sorts of ways. Only some were able to handle it better than others. Most needed something to remind them that they were still alive, that they were needed and would be missed should the worst happen. In the end it was comfort that ruled the human psyche, be it found in the arms of one’s family or in the arms of a lover. It was this understanding that drove Eve to execute her plan of action, using her need to keep things flowing as a convenient excuse not to explore her true feelings.<br><br><br>It wasn’t that Eve hadn’t been affected by Bill’s untimely death. Her first initial response was one of shock and disbelief. However, she had learned years ago to push her true feelings to the back of her mind. To follow such whimsy would surely lead down a path marked with heartache. Evelyn had experienced enough pain and heartache for two life times; she was not interested in accumulating more.&nbsp; With her attention firmly placed upon her own safety and wellbeing, the pretty blonde companion took comfort knowing she had done her best to provide the late Bill Carter with several evenings of bliss, a far cry from anything he had received at home.&nbsp; Her conscious was clear. <br><br><br>Locked in the arms of one of the saloon’s regulars, Eve took a moment to revisit her personal policies. Though privately, he had yet to enjoy the pleasures of her company, the fact remained that he was a reliable patron at the saloon. Customers were important. Without them there wouldn’t be a Lola’s to hand over. With that in mind Eve would consider bending her rule this one time, taking pleasure in his arms in a more private venue.&nbsp; Her hands smoothed over his strong, broad shoulders, drawing a soft sigh and an secret grin. Her sacrifice for the greater good, and for the future of Lola’s wouldn’t be as much of a bitter pill as she had once suspected. <br><br><br>Ever diligent in her duties, Evelyn continued to watch the room under the cover of her long lashes. She searched from corner to corner, looking for any sign of trouble when she spotted Lola descending the stairs. With her boss back and resuming a strong hold of the reins, Evie would be free to initiate her own plan to find comfort after such a tragic happening. Her soul could use some coddling, not to mention her bodies need for sinful pleasures. She was only human. It was true that on occasion, Eve to felt the need for a healthy, strong stud between her thighs. A soft smile graced her face as she prepared to offer him the invitation he had been hoping for only to be waylaid by the sight of Lola’s subtle command for Eve’s attention. Untangling herself from her cowboys hold, the blonde entertainer left him with the promise of her quick return and a soft kiss placed firmly upon his lips.&nbsp; Moving swiftly across the room, Eve slipped beside Lola, offering her friend an apologetic smile.<br><br><br>"Who was it?.....Tell me it wasn't Bill...."<br><br><br>Evelyn’s expressive eyes spoke of the truth before the words were able to trip from her delicate lips. <strong>”I’m sorry Lola”</strong> replied Evie, her voice as gentle as a feather.&nbsp; Reaching out to comfort her friend, Evelyn smoothed her hand along the other woman’s arm, taking Lola’s fingers in her hand and squeezing gently with a show of compassion. <strong>"What's going on? Does this have anything to do with whatever it was that King said to you? What was that all about? You will tell me if there is anything that I can do to help you?"</strong> Trying to draw a smile from the woman she considered to be her best friend Eve added <strong>"Want me to starch his britches? I bet he won't act so smug with his long underwear chaffing his rump!"</strong>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Lola's - IC</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Miss Lilly</strong> on <strong>06-03-2012, 04:20:43</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				At Eve's words, a single tear slid silently down Lola's lightly rouged cheek.&nbsp; Bill had been a good man.&nbsp; He'd give a person the shirt of his back if he thought they needed it, and he deserved better than the hand that he'd been dealt.&nbsp; His wife had made his life a misery, and now King had done the same for his death.<br><br>Lola smiled weakly at Evelyn's offer to starch King's britches.&nbsp; A bit of chaffing might do the monster more good than harm, it was true.&nbsp; But it would do little in the long run.&nbsp; What they needed was for Mr King to disappear, but it seemed he had the money and the contacts to ensure that didn't happen.<br><br>"Oh, Evie," Lola moaned, wondering if this was really the right time to be discussing this.&nbsp; Bill had just died.&nbsp; But then, would there ever be a good time?&nbsp; Probably not, she thought to herself.&nbsp; Lola sighed.&nbsp; "King came here tonight to tell me that he'd bought up the land that <em>Lola's</em> stands on, and as far as he's concerned, the saloon is now his to do with as he pleases.&nbsp; And from what Bill said to me earlier, my guess is that the bastard had done the same to the stockfeed."&nbsp; She held on tight to the hand of her friend.&nbsp; "I was just filling Jackson in when we heard the cries from the street, and he jumped down from the balcony to help.&nbsp; Actually...." she paused and scanned the room quickly.&nbsp; "Where is Jackson?&nbsp; Oh, god...I hope he hasn't done anything rash!"<br><br>She let go of Evelyn's hand and rushed towards the door, weaving her way expertly through patrons who now seemed intent on having a wake for Bill.&nbsp; If Jackson thought for a moment that Desmond King was responsible for his death, there's no telling what he'd do.&nbsp; Lola knew she had to stop him before he did something stupid.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Lola's - IC</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mr Self Destruct</strong> on <strong>06-03-2012, 05:32:03</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				King left Abby in the room to mull over his words.&nbsp; He didn't need an answer immediately.&nbsp; Siding with him against the others in the saloon was a big decision, and one that was best thought over for a few days.&nbsp; Besides, he was confident enough in his ability to manipulate those around him.&nbsp; With the wild ride he'd just given Abby, along with the seeds of doubt he'd planted in her mind, Abby would be his.&nbsp; It was only a matter of time.<br><br>He emerged at the top of the stairwell, his calloused fingers buttoning the front of his shirt as he began moving downstairs.&nbsp; He slid his jacket on, his gun belt resting easily at his waist.&nbsp; One hand rose, adjusting the angle of his dark hat, and as he turned, taking the last few steps toward the main floor of the saloon, his dark eyes slid over the crowd, meeting the dark glares of those who had heard of why Bill had killed himself.&nbsp; If anyone rose to challenge him, his guns were at the ready...but no one would.&nbsp; They were cowards, one and all, preferring to drown their woes in whiskey and women rather than face the obvious threat among them.<br><br>Him.<br><br>He walked across the length of the saloon, his dark gaze washing appreciatively over Evie, and lingering on her form for a moment before moving on.&nbsp; He pushed out the front doors of the saloon, and into the crowd.&nbsp; The angry cries that had been slowly fading suddenly grew again as he walked among them, and once more, King's gaze met those who would challenge him.&nbsp; And again, that steely gaze, that dark stare that promised death, cowed each and every one of them into submission.<br><br>He stopped at the edge of the street, though, his gaze falling to the broken shell of the man that was Bill.&nbsp; He'd been cut down, but his neck was still at that odd angle, and his lifeless eyes seemed to stare accusingly at King.&nbsp; That gaze was something that Desmond had seen before, however, and the lifeless eyes of a dead man had no effect on a man such as he.&nbsp; <br><br>"It's a pity..." he said, his hands going to his hips, his lips swirling the toothpick around in his mouth before he continued.&nbsp; "Bill was a good man.&nbsp; I hope that nobody else takes his example and takes the easy way out.&nbsp; Life is worth livin' and livin' well.&nbsp; There's a lot of work to be done in this city...and a lot of reward for those who take up the calling."<br><br>He glanced around at that, meeting the mixture of curious and hateful stares that came his way.&nbsp; He nodded to a few men, including the two that Jackson had seen in his rather heroic leap from the rooftop, before he turned, walking out into the street.&nbsp; He tossed aside the chewed toothpick as he moved, before turning a corner and disappearing from sight.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Lola's - IC</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Loves</strong> on <strong>06-03-2012, 21:52:12</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Offering a comforting smile, Eve gently stroked her thumb across Lola’s cheek, catching the single tear before it had the opportunity to ruin her friend’s flawless complexion.&nbsp; &nbsp;Her attempt at using humor to lighten the situation failed miserably, but the real surprise came as Lola explained the predicament she had found herself in.&nbsp; &nbsp;Standing as still as a statue, Eve couldn’t keep the shock from her expression as she looked upon Lola with wide, fearful eyes. Her painted lips hung slightly open upon taking in a sharp gasp of stolen air, only to let it rush out in a stream, leaving her breathless.&nbsp; &nbsp;<br><br>Lola’s words washed over her, stinging her with each syllable. King had bought the land? Could he do that? What did that mean for Lola’s? What did it mean for her?&nbsp; Eve had worked hard helping he friend make a success out of the saloon, partially because she felt indebted to Lola and partially because she had designs to take it over one day.&nbsp; But with King holding a fourth Ace up his sleeve Eve’s very future now hung precariously in the balance.&nbsp; <br><br><strong>”What does this mean for us Lola?”</strong> Eve asked. Her words cut from her tongue in a gravelly whisper, delivered wrapped in thick layer of fear. Her mind went wild with possible alternatives, each one more depressing than the last.&nbsp; The only silver lining was the nice nest egg she had built up over the years. Eve’s expression warmed as an idea began to form, what if she offered that nest egg to Lola? Could they buy the land back from King? Would he even entertain such a deal? Perhaps, if he had enough incentive to go along with it King just might be willing to play nice.&nbsp; <strong>”I’ve got….”</strong> Eve began strong only to find&nbsp; her words sticking to her tongue. It was harder than she had thought to give up years of security. No matter, Lola had left without Eve ever noticing, so for now the idea would remain mute. <br><br>Hugging her arms to her chest Eve felt a sudden chill in the air as a wicked shiver ran along her spine. Added to the whispers that flooded the animated saloon, Eve knew, without a doubt, that Desmond King had descended onto the main floor. She didn’t dare turn around, instead she moved slowly towards Lola. As she passed the handsome cowboy she had promised to return to, Eve was once more scooped into his arms, any notion of finding her friend would have to wait...business, after all was business. Lola’s wasn’t under Kings steely hold as of yet, and if she had anything to do with it, never would it be. So for now Eve vowed to take care of things until Lola's return, she wouldn't turn her back on the saloon nor would he abandon the best friend she had the greatest fortune to ever meet. They would get through this, they had to!&nbsp; Both she and Lola had worked too long and too hard to let it be stolen by the likes of the despicable, Desmond King!<br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Lola's - IC</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Rolo</strong> on <strong>16-03-2012, 19:45:51</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The glass pane rattled when Jackson barged through the door of the Sheriff's Office.&nbsp; A stubble faced man leaned against the wall in his chair and just sat there cool as a cucumber.&nbsp; Across the room stood the sheriff, who stared out the window at the commotion that raged in the street.<br><br>"Don't tell me you sat there and watched that, you drunk fool!," Jackson accused, as the blood boiled in his veins.<br><br>The sheriff turned with a nervous look and just stammered incoherently, "Ahh... West... I.. I ahh." His eyes darted to the stranger.&nbsp; West turned to take a better look at the man who still hadn't moved a muscle.&nbsp; His gun hung down from his hip and Jackson saw a bit of light flash off what looked like a Deputy's badge.&nbsp; <br><br>"What the hell is going on here, Sam?," Jackson raged, as he turned back to the sheriff, confused by the dynamics of the room.&nbsp; West moved towards the sheriff and grabbed his lapels and slammed him against the wall.<br><br>"If I find out you had anything to do with this, or know who did it and aren't talking, I will fucking sting you up myself you piece of shit!," Jackson warned.&nbsp; The reek of booze filled the old man's breath, and tears of hopelessness welled in his eyes.&nbsp; Frustrated, Jackson shoved the sheriff hard against the wall, and stormed out of the office.&nbsp; He noticed on the way out that the silent man still hadn't moved.<br><br>Back out on the street, West saw the deliberate stroll of King after he addressed the crowd and went around the corner.&nbsp; Jackson headed in the direction of Lola's and was about twenty paces from the saloon, still unnoticed by anyone in the streets.&nbsp; Just then a shot rang out in the night air, followed by the yells of the formerly silent man in the sheriff's office.<br><br>"WEST!&nbsp; WEST!&nbsp; WEST JUST SHOT THE SHERIFF!!&nbsp; I SAW IT!&nbsp; HE SHOT HIM DOWN LIKE A DOG!!," the man screamed loud enough for all to hear.<br><br>Jackson was dumbstruck and turned in disbelief.&nbsp; The crowed turned in time to see him as he stood, frozen in time.<br><br>"THERE HE IS!," came an anonymous yell.<br><br>Before he knew it, Jackson's instincts kicked into action.&nbsp; He ran to the nearest horse, grabbed the reins and leaped atop the steed in one fell swoop.&nbsp; He jerked the leather straps in the opposite direction of the crowd and kicked sharply into the animals flanks.&nbsp; The horse's reaction pierced the air, before it leaped in the directed direction and sped off into the night. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Lola's - IC</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Miss Lilly</strong> on <strong>19-03-2012, 03:57:45</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Too late to stop Jackson storming off, Lola watched him go, relieved to see he was headed in the direction of the Sherriff's Office.&nbsp; <em>At least he's not trying to take matters into his own hands,</em> she thought to herself as she felt the tension drain from her body.&nbsp; Not that there wasn't plenty to be tense about. Looking at the group of people huddled around the now lifeless body of Bill, she suspected that Silver City's troubles were just beginning.&nbsp; But for now, at least, Jackson wasn't putting himself in harms way. And for that small blessing, she was eternally grateful.<br><br>Not sure if her presence would be welcomed or not, she made her way towards the mourners.&nbsp; Although she'd never taken Bill to her bed, he had been a very good customer, and Lola had been fond of the big man.&nbsp; His hulking size and tendency to move slowly and deliberately had given some credence to the belief that he was a little on the slow side.&nbsp; Nothing could have been further from the truth, though, and the fact that Bill hadn't been able to see a way out of his predicament worried Lola no end.<br><br>Noticing that the group gathered around the pathetic sight of Bill's wife keening over his corpse were all men, Lola's heart went out to the woman.&nbsp; "Esther," she said softly as she hunched down beside the still wailing widow, slipping a comforting arm around the woman's shoulders.&nbsp; "I'm so sorry.&nbsp; Bill was a good man.&nbsp; If there's anything I can do...."<br><br>It wasn't that she expected Esther to take her up on the offer, although if she had, Lola would have been more than willing to help in any way she could.&nbsp; But the venom in the grieving woman's eyes was so obvious, so intense, that it took Lola by complete surprise.<br><br>"Get away from me, you....you....whore," Esther screamed at Lola, pushing her away so hard that the pretty brunette found herself sprawled on her back in the dirt.&nbsp; "If it hadn't been for you and the rest of your whores, Bill would have been at home tonight, where he belonged!" Her voice had reached fever pitch, and although Lola's instinct was to defend herself and her girls, she feared the consequences of enraging the woman further, and so stayed languishing in the dirt at Esther's feet.&nbsp; "If he'd been at home, he'd still be alive.&nbsp; YOU killed him!&nbsp; You and your ruttin' whorehouse!!" <br><br>Well, that was one step too far.&nbsp; Trixie's was a whorehouse.&nbsp; Lola's was a saloon.<br><br>"Now Esther," came the deep voice of Harry, who'd been watching from the front porch of Lola's. He strode over and hoisted Lola out of the dirt, placing her gently back on her feet. "That's hardly fair, and you know it.&nbsp; Lola is no more responsible for Bill's death than I am.&nbsp; It's just the grief talkin'.&nbsp; How 'bout I escort you home, and make sure you get there safe 'n sound, hummm?"&nbsp; Harry flashed Lola a reassuring smile, then wrapped a protective arm around the waist of Esther Carter, widow.&nbsp; She dissolved once again into tears, collapsing into Harry's broad chest as he led her away from the grisly scene.<br><br>With Esther's last words still ringing in her ears, Lola watched them go, relieved that someone had taken the initiative and done <em>something</em>.&nbsp; She made a mental note to buy Harry a drink or five the next time he was in Lola's.&nbsp; If he hadn't stepped in when he did, she didn't know what would have happened.&nbsp; She'd seen red at the insult to her establishment, and would have likely reacted without thinking, which would have just made matters ten times worse than they already were.&nbsp; Confident that the men would handle the removal of Bill's body with dignity, Lola was about to head back inside when a shot, followed by an accusing voice, rang out from down the street.<br><br><strong><em>"WEST!&nbsp; WEST!&nbsp; WEST JUST SHOT THE SHERIFF!!&nbsp; I SAW IT!&nbsp; HE SHOT HIM DOWN LIKE A DOG!!"</em></strong><br><br>Lola turned towards the shouting just in time to see Jackson leap onto a horse and gallop off like he was being chased by the devil himself.&nbsp; Icy fingers slipped around her heart and squeezed as the impact of what just happened hit her.&nbsp; She knew that Jackson would never kill a lawman. Knew beyond a shadow of a doubt.&nbsp; But if someone had killed the Sheriff and tried to frame Jackson for it, then that someone had just taken away Lola's only fighting chance of beating Desmond King and holding on to her saloon.&nbsp; And worse than that, Jackson was likely now a wanted man. <br><br><em>Will this cursed night never end,</em> Lola wondered miserably as she hurried back to the relative safety of her saloon.&nbsp; Even more worrying was the thought that things could, and probably would get much, much, worse.&nbsp; <br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Lola's - IC</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mr Self Destruct</strong> on <strong>19-03-2012, 22:24:35</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				King's man in the Sheriff's office smiled, watching West ride off in a panic.&nbsp; The pistol in his hand was still smoking, it's barrel hot and colored with gunpowder.&nbsp; He slid the weapon into the holster at his hip, then moved to the doorway, peering out just in time to catch the silhouette of West on horse back, disappearing into the night.&nbsp; Let him run.&nbsp; King's plan had begun, and went off without a hitch.&nbsp; This was just the beginning, the man knew.&nbsp; He'd worked with King long enough to know that there was rarely anything...or anyone...that was left untouched when the man wanted something.&nbsp; <br><br><div class="floatright">(http://i132.photobucket.com/albums/q15/doogieporker/raylan-givens.jpg)</div>Turning, he walked over to the cooling body of the Sheriff, and knelt down beside him.&nbsp; As if on cue, the townsfolk stumbled their way into the sheriff's office, their eyes wide and their faces contorted with panic and anger.&nbsp; The man turned, eyeing them, before he looked back to the body of the old sheriff.&nbsp; He reached out, taking the dead man's badge of office, and affixed it to his coat.&nbsp; He straightened, rising to his full height, and turned around to address the crowd gathered.<br><br>"Rest easy, folks...." he said, his hands rising, his palms out, as though trying to calm the crowd.&nbsp; "West won't get far.&nbsp; And when we find him, he'll be tried and hung for murder.&nbsp; We don't need some madman with a taste for blood ruinin' the money that Mr. King's gonna bring to this town.&nbsp; Spread the word!&nbsp; I want any information on Jackson West...there's a hundred dollar reward for any information leading to his capture!"<br><br>The crowd grumbled their agreement and slowly filed out of the sheriff's office, and out into the street.&nbsp; They joined the rest of the townsfolk that had gathered outside, and their murmured voices became a mixed cacophony of anger and dissent.&nbsp; West was the angry name on their lips, and the hundred dollar reward was the incentive they needed to do their best to find him.<br><br>The new sheriff watched as the crowd exited and began to slowly disperse.&nbsp; His gaze rose, moving over the heads of those gathered and to the lone figure standing on the opposite side of the street, in the shadows of an overhang.&nbsp; The figure was none other than Desmond King, who nodded his approval, then turned, and moved off into the night.&nbsp; 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Lola's - IC</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Loves</strong> on <strong>21-03-2012, 17:50:58</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				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.&nbsp; Eve, still entangled within the arms of a young cowboy, turned in time to watch as Lola returned.&nbsp; 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.&nbsp; <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.&nbsp; <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.&nbsp; 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.&nbsp; <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.&nbsp; 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.&nbsp; 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.&nbsp; 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>
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Lola's - IC</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Breathless Intent</strong> on <strong>26-03-2012, 12:05:43</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				The stale scent of smoke and sex lingered in the air, tickling her nose as Abby slowly nursed the glass of warm whiskey in her hand. Sitting bare skinned on the chair King had vacated a few minutes before, she stared sightlessly ahead of her and swallowed another burning mouthful. Her mind was tumbling end over end with the news he had sprung on her. King owned Lola's. Or near enough at least. And Lola, true to form, was being stubborn about it. How it had happened, Abby did not understand. <em>Didn't Lola buy this place ages ago? How can the saloon be owned separate from the ground it stands on?</em> That one worry nagged at Abby, putting King's whole claim into question. <br><br>Idly tracing her tongue over the rim of the glass, Abby retraced her response to King. She had been curious, interested, and wholly noncommittal. She had, of course, ensured him that she would try to talk to Lola on his behalf. Even if she had no intention of doing so, she'd be stupid not to tell him what he wanted to hear. Regardless of the validity of his claims, King was the richest man in town and apparently had designs on running the place. Abby had decided immediately that she in no way wanted to land on Desmond King's bad side. <br><br>Finally, Abby decided she ought to clean up and get back to work; she was doing herself no favors by getting drunk alone in one of the guest rooms. In no time, Abby's practiced hands had her undergarments, skirts and corset back on. Standing in front of a mirror she stared at herself and winced slightly. Her lips were plumply swollen and a bright shade of pink, her hair was mussed, and her skin was slightly flushed. There would be no doubt what she had been up to in the room upstairs...then again Lola would have known that all along. What had she expected? For Abby to somehow seduce King into forgetting all about his property rights? The woman was obviously daft. Or...Perhaps she was having him test the wares before selling? Frowning at her reflection, she suddenly felt overexposed by the low neckline of her corset. Self consciously tugging it up another inch or so, she finally gathered enough courage to leave the room. <br><br>The cacophonous roar of voices hit her like a brick as she stepped onto the landing of the stairs that overlooked the main floor of the saloon. Lola's was always bustling and loud, but this was a different level than she was accustomed to. Patrons were clumped tightly together, talking loudly and gesticulating wildly. Abby's natural curiosity had her taking a step or two down the stairs, intent on discovering what had happened to cause such a stir. Then she saw Lola and Eve. The two were thick as thieves and judging by the looks on both of their faces, the commotion stirring downstairs was serious. Her foot hovered over another step down before she reconsidered and drew it back. Still reeling from the news King had dropped on her and the knowledge that things were changing drastically in Silver City, Abby wasn't so sure she could handle another revelation of "big news." <br><br>Just as Eve parted from Lola's side, Abby spun around on her heel and disappeared up the set of stairs to the third story of the saloon, up to the staff's quarters. She didn't care if Lola needed her to help staff the saloon. She had been contracted out all night, after all, so obviously she wasn't needed. With that bitter thought in mind, Abby found her tiny bedroom and locked herself inside. Her mind was still racing, and after having seen Lola, even for those brief moments from across the saloon, she knew she could not face her that night. What could she possibly say? "Lola, King says he owns the saloon, you better play nice" or "Don't do anything stupid, the rest of us still need our jobs"? She would have to think long and hard about what approach to take to the whole situation. <br><br>It wasn't long before she was stripped bare and laying naked in the sheets of her small bed. Clutching her pillow to her chest, she stared into the darkness of her room and idly wished Jackson were with her. The strength of his arms and the power of his presence would assure her that everything was going to be all right. With a smile on her lips, Abby eventually drifted off to sleep with the intent of speaking to Jackson tomorrow. He would know what to do, and he was likely the only person in Silver City that could talk some sense in Lola. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Lola's - IC</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mr Self Destruct</strong> on <strong>11-04-2012, 16:55:02</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				<div align="center"><strong>Day 2</strong></div><br><div class="floatright">(http://i132.photobucket.com/albums/q15/doogieporker/Character%20Images/amc-hell-on-wheels-anson-mount-ifc-western-1.jpg)</div>The sun rose slowly over the streets of Silver City, its warm and welcoming glow unable to chase away the darkness that had taken hold within the town.&nbsp; That darkness, Desmond King, stood on the front porch of his rented room, sipping his dark coffee and smoking a rolled cigarette while he watched the sun's ray spread across the land.&nbsp; He watched as night receded from the town, fading away shadow by shadow, giving way to the unstoppable light of day.<br><br>The comparison between light and dark and his own influence on the city wasn't lost on him.&nbsp; He'd already purchased enough land in the area to damn near own the town, and had buyers working aggressively to purchase more of the surrounding area, as well as many of the more profitable businesses in town.&nbsp; With his money and his ruthlessness, he was as unstoppable as the coming dawn, but he knew that if he really wanted to truly have the town under his sway, he had to make Lola's Saloon his own.<br><br>Lola was an influential woman, and the influence that her girls had on the men that frequented the place was powerful as well.&nbsp; They had the ear of ranchers, farmers, miners, and gamblers not only within the city, but throughout the surrounding countryside as well.&nbsp; Their feminine charms were just what he needed in order to gather information about any potential rivals, but also to keep an eye out for anyone who had something to gain by working with him to take control of the town.<br><br>Grinning that wolfish grin, Desmond finished his coffee and flicked his cigarette to the street before heading back inside to prepare for his day.&nbsp; After dressing in his usual dark shirt and pants, he slid on his gun belt and his wide brimmed black hat and long, dark coat.&nbsp; After taking a moment to inspect himself in the mirror, making certain that everything was in its place, he headed out, making his way across town.&nbsp; Lola's would be his first stop for the day, and while he hoped to have a chance to speak to Lola again, any one of the girls would do, he supposed.&nbsp; And if any of them were as hungry for a chance at power as Abby was, they would find it by his side.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Lola's - IC</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Loves</strong> on <strong>11-04-2012, 21:28:20</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(http://www.pictures13.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/Marisa-Miller-Photos.jpg)</div>Evelyn rose with the sun, as was her habit since the first days of the saloon’s grand opening. Her eyes felt dry and sore, a direct result from lack of sleep.&nbsp; She had tossed and turned all night, unable to fall into the deep sleep her body craved. It was understandable considering the events from the previous night. She had found a reprieve, however temporary, in the arms of the handsome cowboy that had enfolded her in his arms, comforting her after the tragic news of Bill’s untimely death had broken.&nbsp; Taking a customer to bed wasn't exactly taboo within the saloon’s rules. However, it was rare for Eve to partake in the pleasure of the flesh with her customers without receiving some kind of monetary gain, or at the very least, presented with an expensive offering.&nbsp; Over the years she had managed to build a sizable nest egg, one she had briefly considered offering to Lola in hopes they could buy back the land that the saloon stood upon.&nbsp; It was a fleeting idea that had lost its appeal the moment she had a chance to think it through fully.&nbsp; As noble as it was to want to help, Eve still understood that it was up to her to ensure her future, especially now that her position as the future proprietor hung in the balance.<br><br>Cleaned and dressed for a new day, Evie took her time styling her hair, leaving long tendrils of blonde curls to fall around her shoulders. Her choice of attire had everything to do with distraction, hoping to draw attention away from her tired eyes and placing it firmly where most men enjoyed their focus. Flaunting her charms was, after all, what she did best.&nbsp; Evelyn paused long enough to cast her gaze over her room and smiled, satisfied with its neat appearance, before making her way down the grand staircase. The stillness of the early morning had always been her favorite time of day. She enjoyed the peaceful atmosphere of the saloon, grateful for the time she could spend alone. There were days when one of more townies wandered in, hoping for an early start to their drinking day and possibly some female attention, but they were often shown the door with a gentle reminder of the saloon’s working hours. That being said, the more influential clients were more likely to be shown the staircase, accompanied by one of Lola’s girls and depending how prominent the customer, by Evelyn herself. <br><br>Settling herself at one of the round tables on the main saloon floor, Eve smiled as the cook greeted her with a warm cup of coffee and a light breakfast.&nbsp; Her eyes glanced at the staircase as she slipped into her private thoughts, pondering the events from the previous evening. She mulled over the possible solutions, one more improbable than the next. In the end there were only two possible options, neither seemed remotely desirable. She could either repeat the unheard offer from the night before, sacrificing her secret nest egg that she had accumulated over the years, or vanish like Jackson had, leaving Lola to pick up the pieces on her own. Tapping her nails on the wooden surface of the table, Evie showed no outward sign of stress as she struggled with the thoughts that waged within her mind. The more she thought it through the more she realized there was only one choice, she would have to offer the money to Lola again, and hope that it was enough to buy their safety from King. To cut her losses and slink off into the night, washing her hands of both the saloon and the people she had come to see as her family was too heavy a burden for her to carry. <br><br>A heavy sigh slipped past her lips as she cradled her chin in the palm of her hand, resting her elbow on the table, mindlessly staring into space.&nbsp; <strong>”If I had gotten married like I was supposed to do, none of this would matter”</strong> grumbled Evie, pouting at the thought of the complicated mess that had become her life.&nbsp; Nothing seemed to have worked out as her childhood dreams had imagined. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Lola's - IC</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Miss Lilly</strong> on <strong>16-04-2012, 05:57:08</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				To say that Lola woke would be a stretch of the truth, as she wasn't entirely sure that she'd slept at all.&nbsp; The tumultuous events of last night had refused to stop replaying themselves in her mind, and that, accompanied by her deep worry for Jackson, had kept proper sleep firmly at bay.&nbsp; Half wishing she'd given herself a little liquid help before taking to her bed, Lola finally gave up just as the suns' rays kissed the tops of the nearby mountains.<br><br>Wrapping her silk robe around her shoulders, the normally composed woman walked slowly to the window of her suite, deliberately avoiding looking at her reflection in the mirror as she passed. From her rooms on the third floor of the saloon, which was situated atop a hill overlooking the town, Lola was able to watch as Silver City slowly woke up.&nbsp; Despite losing two of their own last night, life for the townsfolk trudged inevitably onwards, and before long the streets below were dotted with the usual early morning risers.<br><br>A heavy sigh escaped Lola's lips as she turned from the peaceful vista and busied herself with getting her own day started.&nbsp; It wasn't unusual for her girls to gather downstairs to share the first meal of the day together, and Lola thought that today of all days, they would probably be looking to her for answers.&nbsp; <br><br>Not surprised at her harried look, she dressed quickly in one of her day dresses, a simple green tartan gown cut almost demurely, leaving her luscious brown hair flowing loosely around her shoulders for a change.&nbsp; Truth be told, she didn't have the patience to fiddle with it today, and Lola knew herself well enough to know that if it didn't go up just right, she was likely to take the scissors to it in a fit of frustration.&nbsp; A few strategically placed dabs of concealer beneath her eyes, and Lola was as ready as she was going to be.<br><br>Eager to speak to Abby, and find out what had happened with King last night, Lola descended the stairs quickly.&nbsp; Finding Evie eating alone in the saloon, it suddenly dawned on her that she not seen hide nor hair of Abby since sending her into the lion's den.&nbsp; A feeling of dread settled over Lola's already overloaded heart, and she hoped beyond hope that she hadn't made an error in judgement by sending the girl to entertain Mr King.&nbsp; She should have really gone herself, but she had been scared.&nbsp; Not scared for her person, but scared of saying or doing something that would make things worse for her, for her girls, and for her saloon.&nbsp; She'd needed time to compose herself, and to talk things through with Jackson. Neither had been particularly successful, and Lola found herself right back at square one.<br><br>Stopping by the kitchen to place her breakfast order with Cook, she slid quietly into the chair next to Evie.&nbsp; The younger woman had been so lost in her own thoughts that Lola wasn't even sure she'd noticed her arrival.&nbsp; Brushing her lips against her friend's cheek in a light good morning kiss, she smiled in what she hoped was a reassuring way.<br><br>"Penny for them?" she asked softly.&nbsp; What she really wanted to know was whether or not Abby had come down yet, but Eve looked as though she'd been engrossed in her own thoughts for some time, and Lola thought it would be best to give the blonde a chance to speak her mind before they moved on to discussing business.&nbsp; It wasn't like a few minutes would make a whole lot of difference.&nbsp; And besides...before she could think properly herself, Lola needed coffee.&nbsp; One cup, at the very least.&nbsp; And today, she would probably polish off the whole pot.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Lola's - IC</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Breathless Intent</strong> on <strong>17-04-2012, 06:28:07</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				Dawn's subdued light cast a soft light into Abby's third floor room, a pale beam of sunlight breaking through a part in the curtains to fall directly across her sleeping face. Screwing up her nose in irritation, she twisted around in bed and pulled the pillow over face in an attempt to fall back to sleep. But, in that instant of waking, anxiety welled up in her heart and captured hold of her throat. Memories of King and his claims about the saloon and Lola were tumbling around in her head, leaving Abby staring sightlessly at the wall opposite her bed. She lay there for a long while, playing through alternate scenarios in her mind until she felt sick with worry and uncertainty. Groaning, she decided that it was better to get up and dressed than to lay in bed and work herself into a tizzy. <br><br>Flinging back her thin sheets, Abby's naked form rose from the small bed and in short order she had on her morning attire. Unlike her flashy work clothes, she was dressed in a simple gown of cornflower blue cotton over a loosely cinched corset and light petticoat. She swept her hands over the simple fabric and couldn't help but wonder what King might dress her in. Surely not something so base as cotton. Silk, perhaps? A grin rode on her lips as she indulged in that day dream, filling her mental closet with the finest and most fashionable gowns. Peering at herself in her full length mirror, she pinned up her thick auburn curls and pinched a little color into her pale cheeks. She wasn't a complete wreck, but the after effects of having imbibed a few glasses of whiskey the night before were felt in the dull throbbing behind her eyes. <br><br>Swinging her door open, she stepped out into the hallway and nearly crashed into a curvy blonde. Stopping short, Abby gasped and laughed at the narrowly avoided impact, "Woah! Sorry about that, Bella." Bella's wide blue eyes stared at Abby in shock, undoubtedly because it was unheard of that Abby was up so early. Usually, the bubbly redhead slept in until just before noon and stumbled down for lunch before getting ready for the rush of business hours. Then, the most unexpected thing happened...Bella's lower lip began to tremble and she flung her arms around Abby, pulling her up against her body and squeezing her in a tight hug. Bella's high voice trembled as she spoke, "Oh, Abby! You must be torn up 'bout Jackson. We all know he wouldn't do nothin' so stupid as shootin' the sheriff without good cause, don't you worry. It'll all get sorted, you'll see!" The girl's hand patted Abby's shoulder consolingly, cradling her in close to her soft breasts and rocking her in that otherwise deserted hallway.<br><br>Abby's expressive features exhibited the gamut of her reactions - surprise at the unexpected embrace, confusion at the blonde's strange concern, shock at the implication of what she was being told, and complete and utter panic once it set in. Tearing herself away from Bella's arms, she stared at her in shock, her head shaking in denial, "No! No, that is ridiculous. Jackson wouldn't...He couldn't...He's much too...Where's Lola??" Without waiting to hear a single word from Bella, Abby rushed down the hallway to Lola's room, her fist balled as she pounded on the door and called out, "Lola? LOLA!" When Lola's bedroom door slowly swung open to reveal that the room was empty, Abby turned on her heel and raced down the stairs, nearly tripping on her clumsy feet at least three times. <br><br>Whipping into the kitchen, wild eyes sought out the brunette proprietor. Finding her at a table with Eve, she flicked her eyes dismissively past the blonde and settled her attention on Lola. Breath ragged, she shot out a litany of desperate questions, "Lola, what the hell is going on around here? What happened to Jackson?? Is he okay? Oh God, please tell me he's alright." Her last words were a plea, spoken before her eyes welled up in tears at the thought of what very well might have happened to a man accused of shooting the sheriff.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Lola's - IC</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Loves</strong> on <strong>18-04-2012, 16:41:20</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Even though Evelyn’s mind was troubled by indecision it was impossible not to smile as she was greeted by Lola. Her friendly kiss and the soft, concerned voice instantly soothed Evelyn’s turmoil, pulling the blonde from the shadows into the warmth of Lola’s care.&nbsp; There was no doubt in Evie’s mind that the request to share her troubles was sincere, and although it was not Lola’s intention, the guilt that weighed heavily upon the blondes shoulders tightened the band that already squeezed at her heart. Lola had her own troubles, what with King’s threats and demands and now the uncertainty about Jackson, but she had still enough strength to take on Eve’s plight. How could have Eve ever considered not offering the nest egg to her friend?&nbsp; <br><br>Twisting in her chair Evelyn offered a genuine smile that reached her honey brown eyes, returning the friendly morning greeting with a heartfelt embrace and soft kiss upon Lola’s cheek.&nbsp; <strong>”A penny for these thoughts is an overindulgence, they aren’t worth even half that”</strong> Eve began as she reached for the coffee pot to pour Lola her morning brew. Sliding the cup across the table Eve silently assessed her friend as Lola settled herself at the table and debated within her mind how to approach the subject of King and his demands.&nbsp; <strong>”You’re not alone you know”</strong> Eve began truthfully.&nbsp; No matter how many times the thought of cutting out on her friend might rise to the surface, Eve knew without a doubt that she wouldn’t ever take that way out. It was a cowardly thing to do. She may be many things to different people in this town, but a coward was not one of them.&nbsp; <strong>”Whatever King has in mind, whatever he thinks he can do…”</strong> reaching a comforting hand out to cover Lola’s, Eve hoped to bring even an ounce of comfort to her friend <strong>”we will face it together. I’m not leaving you.”</strong> <br><br>Eve wasn’t sure if her words were meant to comfort Lola, or to cement the decision she had finally reached in her mind.&nbsp; She felt weightless, infused with the peace and clarity that came with having a plan, or at least an option other than raising the white flag and handing over everything they had worked so hard to accomplish. <strong>”I don’t think you should talk to him alone”</strong> Eve began <strong>”but honey, you are going to have to talk with him. At the very least we need to try and find out the truth about Jackson.”</strong>&nbsp; She was thinking on her feet now. Perhaps offering King the money wasn’t the right thing to do. Perhaps, offering it to someone who close enough to the snake to hold his confidence was a better idea. It would be imperative that person would be able to be coaxed into sharing information, and if that meant Eve would have to use her special talents of persuasion then so be it. <br><br>She would have explained further however the quiet of the morning was soon disrupted with a loud clattering causing the blonde to turn sharply towards the kitchen door. Her soft brown eyes grew darker, pinning a glare upon the red head that had arrived with all the grace of a sand storm. Eve bristled with irritation, instantly drawing herself higher in her chair, ready to do battle on Lola’s behalf. Her instinct was to protect her best friend, whether it was from one of the girl, King, or the devil himself. No matter how selfish Eve could act, Lola’s welfare had always trumped her own needs. <strong>”Sit down Abby, stop screeching like a banshee”</strong> Evelyn snapped, resisting the urge to roll her eyes at the other woman’s dramatics. If there was one thing that life had taught Eve, it was that hysterical behavior seldom got you anything but a headache. She may come off as cold and uncaring at times, but she never once lost ground with a man when negotiating her terms, simply by being in control of her emotions. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Lola's - IC</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Miss Lilly</strong> on <strong>27-04-2012, 04:47:09</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The first sip of strong, hot, coffee was always the best of the day, and Lola savoured the slightly bitter brew while she listened to Evie talk. Covering the younger woman's hand with her own, she smiled at her statement of solidarity.<br><br>"I know, honey.&nbsp; I appreciate that.&nbsp; And you're right...I can't just bury my head in the sand and hope the whole thing will go away while I'm not lookin'."&nbsp; Lines of worry creased Lola's brow further at the mention of Jackson.&nbsp; She was sure that King trying to take the saloon, and Jackson being accused of killing the sheriff were all part of something bigger.&nbsp; Something that had implications for the whole of Silver City.&nbsp; If King had half a brain - and he'd already shown that he had - he would know that Jackson was one of the few men...possibly the <em>only</em> man...who would have the courage to stand in his way.&nbsp; Getting rid of the ex-Texas Ranger would certainly make life a whole hell of a lot easier for Desmond King. Lola was certain of that.<br><br>Before she could share any of her suspicions with Eve, though, Abby came barrelling out of the kitchen, her eyes wild, looking something akin to a stampeding horse.&nbsp; It certainly wasn't out of character for the red head to turn on the dramatics, but even she wasn't this good of an actor.&nbsp; It was obvious that she was genuinely concerned about Jackson, and Lola wondered briefly if she was doing the right thing keeping them apart.&nbsp; Putting that thought aside for later consideration, she waited for a break in Abby's rapid fire questions for a chance to get a word in.<br><br>"He's fine, Abs," Lola began soothingly, trying to smooth over the rough edges of Eve's almost unkind words.&nbsp; It was not lost on her that the two younger women got under each others skin.&nbsp; But now was not the time for infighting, and she shot her second in command an admonishing look.&nbsp; Evie did not suffer fools well, and although Abby was no fool, Lola knew that melodramatics fell into the same category in her protege's mind.&nbsp; Pouring the distraught woman a cup of coffee, Lola smiled reassuringly, indicating that she should join them.&nbsp; Several of the girls had drifted downstairs in Abby's wake, and were now taking up positions around the table, almost too eager to hear what had transpired during the course of the evening.<br><br>"As for what's goin' on, well...we're not really sure."&nbsp; Lola gave the assembled group a quick recap of the stormy events of the previous night, minus the business with King.&nbsp; There was no need to worry them all with that just yet.&nbsp; "I'm sure Jackson is safe," she directed the statement mostly at Abby, although the handsome bounty hunter was a favourite with all of the girls. "He's quite good at takin' care of himself.&nbsp; And if I know him, and I do, he'll get in contact as soon as he can."<br><br>"Now..." she continued, giving Abby's hand a reassuring pat.&nbsp; "How about we try to just try to enjoy our breakfast, and then get on with things as usual.&nbsp; The customers will still be wantin' to see y'all smilin' and dancin' like normal, once the sun goes down."<br><br>Lola waited for the girls to fall into conversation before leaning surreptitiously towards Abby, whispering soft enough that only she could hear.&nbsp; "Come to my office after breakfast, Abigail.&nbsp; We can talk more there."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Lola's - IC</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mr Self Destruct</strong> on <strong>17-05-2012, 16:10:11</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Now..." she continued, giving Abby's hand a reassuring pat.&nbsp; "How about we try to just try to enjoy our breakfast, and then get on with things as usual.&nbsp; The customers will still be wantin' to see y'all smilin' and dancin' like normal, once the sun goes down."<br><br>At her words, the saloon doors opened, and King entered, his boots thumping heavily on the wooden floorboards as he moved.&nbsp; At his right, the new sheriff entered behind him, his thumbs hooked into the gunbelt at his waist and his eyes roaming the gathered women without regard for subtlety.&nbsp; At his left, a tall lanky figure (http://i132.photobucket.com/albums/q15/doogieporker/Character%20Images/Capture.png) stood, his thick mustache framing a pointed chin and an ever present smirk.&nbsp; His dark, beady eyes stared at the girls from beneath the brim of his wide hat, and while his hands were nowhere near his weapons, he carried himself with the gait and easy relaxed stance of a gunslinger.<br><br>"Truer words have never been spoken, my dear Lola..." King said, walking right up to her table.&nbsp; Michael, the sheriff tucked into King's pocket, remained by the door, occasionally glancing outside, as though expecting trouble.&nbsp; The tall, lanky man tipped his hat to the gathered women, and remained by the door as well, though he kept his gaze firmly affixed on King, as though it were his sole occupation, to protect the new owner of Lola's Saloon.<br><br>"Now, ladies...I'm not sure if your lovely proprietor here has told you all the sordid little details or not..." he said, his gaze drifting to Abby briefly before drifting away once more.&nbsp; "But I am the new owner of this establishment.&nbsp; I am Desmond King, for those that haven't had the pleasure...and for those that have, you'll know that I'm a man who gets what he wants.&nbsp; It was how I was able to purchase the land beneath your feet.&nbsp; And anything atop that land becomes either mine, or an obstruction to progress.&nbsp; The question here, and it is this....is what will happen to this rustic little saloon if Lola here decides she doesn't want a partnership with the man who has the power to ruin her?"<br><br>He moved up behind Lola as he spoke, his hands going to her shoulders.&nbsp; He rubbed them briefly, letting his gaze circle the crowd of girls gathered, watching their expressions shift from doubt to anger to desperation.&nbsp; Many of them had come from desperate and abusive situations.&nbsp; Lola's had been good for many of them, pulling them from a hard life of pain and fear and giving them a chance to make a decent life under her employ.&nbsp; King was now threatening that, but their continued comfort was simple enough to ensure.&nbsp; Lola just had to agree to his terms.<br><br>"Now...the town is under a bit of turmoil, at the moment.&nbsp; Bill is dead.&nbsp; Jackson has killed the sheriff and is now a wanted man.&nbsp; Things will be put right, but I need each and every one of you to understand this...change is coming.&nbsp; It is undeniable, unstoppable, and if you're not in line with the changes that progress will bring, then you're in the way.&nbsp; And you will be crushed under the weight of the future."<br><br>Leaning down to Lola's ear after he finished speaking, he grinned, and said, "How about that talk now?&nbsp; Unless you've got another girl that you can distract me and my boys with for another day?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Lola's - IC</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Miss Lilly</strong> on <strong>21-05-2012, 04:19:44</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				A collective shiver rustled around the table as the doors of the saloon burst open and the cause of Lola's sleepless night strode across the room like he owned it, his two henchmen remaining on guard at the entrance.&nbsp; The girls at the table who didn't already know about King's acquisition of Lola's looked shocked at his announcement, their mouths falling open almost simultaneously in what would have been a very comical manner had the circumstances been different.&nbsp; Watching King carefully, Lola didn't miss the way his gaze lingered briefly on Abby, and she wondered what exactly had transpired last night. <em>I should have made a point of speaking to her as soon as King left,</em> Lola chastised herself.&nbsp; But, other happenings had gotten in the way, and it was too late to be worrying about that now.<br><br>Lola tried to put on a brave face as each girl turned towards her, fear of the unknown in their eyes.&nbsp; She gave them a small smile of reassurance as King stalked around the table, coming to a halt behind her.&nbsp; Cringing as his hands caressed her bare shoulders, she shook her head at his announcement that Jackson had killed the sheriff.&nbsp; It was unlikely that anyone at the table would believe that statement anyway - they'd all known the bounty hunter longer that they'd known King - but Lola knew that mud had an unfortunate way of sticking if it was flung hard enough.&nbsp; However, she knew in her heart that Jackson would never shoot someone down in cold blood, especially a fellow lawman.&nbsp; She had to make sure that the girls all believed that too, so they could counteract the gossip that would no doubt be sweeping the saloon floor tonight.<br><br>An involuntary shudder passed through her when he leaned down to speak in her ear.&nbsp; The man made Lola's skin crawl.&nbsp; She shot an apologetic look in Abby's direction, guilt at having sent the girl to distract King once again eating away at her.&nbsp; Never had Lola regretted something she'd done here in Silver City the way she regretted doing that.&nbsp; She'd make a point of speaking to Abby as soon as she could, and putting things right with her.&nbsp; She adored each of her girls like they were her own offspring, and the underlying implication of King's statement about <em>another girl to distract him</em> left Lola in no doubt that Abby had been subjected to more than just his words last night.&nbsp; And she would hate for Abby to think that she had thrown her in front of King like a lamb to the slaughter.<br><br>"Of course, Mr King," she responded with as much dignity as she could muster. "Would you care to join us for breakfast?&nbsp; I'll have Cook bring you some grits, if'n you like."&nbsp; Lola indicated an empty chair at the table, inviting him to sit.&nbsp; It wasn't just that she didn't want to be alone with the monster.&nbsp; Given that his "terms" would affect them all, she thought it only fair that her girls be privy to the conversation as well. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Lola's - IC</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Loves</strong> on <strong>23-05-2012, 01:54:04</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				To say that Eve was a little put out with the more than obvious coddling of Abby could very well be an understatement. It wasn’t that Evelyn didn’t like the redheaded girl. She did, she liked Abby as much as she did any of the other girls that worked in the saloon.&nbsp; That’s not to say she didn’t like the other girls, it was more that she tolerated their existence.&nbsp; However, Lola’s sudden “handling with care” reeked of guilt and if there was one thing Eve rarely ever cow down to was guilt. There was no point to it. Guilt didn’t bring relief to your worries, nor would it bring a positive outcome to the situation that had now presented itself.&nbsp; King was now openly claiming to be the rightful owner of Lola’s so the real question here was, where would that leave Eve? That was the only worry the blonde would concern herself with today. Whatever happened to Jackson, Abby, and now it seemed even to Lola, was out of her control, or so she told herself. <br><br>Luckily for Eve she had options. She could excuse herself from the table and the discussion that would soon unfold and retreat to her room. There she could easily pack her things and collect the substantial amount of money she had been squirreling away over the years and leave behind the saloon and its question of ownership. The idea of moving to a nearby town and making a clean start held a strong appeal, so much so that she pushed her chair away from the table and stood without ever making a conscious decision for her future.&nbsp; <strong>”You can have my seat”</strong> Eve announced turning smoothly to the side in order to face&nbsp; King&nbsp; head on as he stood behind Lola. <br><br>The moment the words tripped from her lips, so the guilt set in causing Eve to curse under her breath as she turned her eyes away from King and connected with Lola. Had it been anyone else but Lola, Evelyn would have been able to turn her back upon the entire situation, as she had planned to,&nbsp; and stride proudly across the room, gracefully ascending the staircase leaving the whole sordid mess behind her.&nbsp; However, it wasn’t just anyone. It was Lola, and no matter how much Eve tried to talk herself into believing that she was alone in this world, she knew, deep down that she owed Lola a great deal more than simply her respect. She owed the woman her loyalty. <br><br>Lola had saved her from a life time of misery.&nbsp; It was true that she lived a solitary life, even though she was surrounded by women close enough to become her sisters. However, her love and affection for Lola had been true. The two women had bonded over the saloon and formed a bond that seemed stronger than mere blood. They were sisters in every sense of the word and Evelyn knew without a doubt that she would rather die before disappointing Lola and leaving her to dance alone to Kings tune.<br><br>Eve willed Lola to see the truth behind her actions, hoping against hope that the older woman would trust in their friendship and cling to the faith that they had for each other before breaking the contact and returning her gaze to King.&nbsp; Rolling her shoulders back in a subtle movement, Eve smoothed the black silk of her daring dress along the curves of her body. Unlike the others, Eve had chosen a dress that accentuated her curves, displaying her figure to its fullest.&nbsp; She had needed the ego boost that morning, and was glad to feel prepared, dressed in her "working" clothes to deal with the men that had invaded their morning meal. <br><br>Her smile warmed as she purposely allowed her gaze to drop, following the lines of Kings powerful frame before returning to his curious stare. Glancing over her shoulder at the door she offered the new sheriff an even brighter smile before turning back to Lola. <strong>“I’ll gather a plate for Mr. King. I know you wouldn’t want him thinking us inhospitable.&nbsp; Should I fix a little something for the Sheriff?”</strong>&nbsp; Turning to look at the menacing third man that had entered the saloon with King and the Sheriff, Eve tossed a playful wink at the stoic man before adding <strong>”and one for Mr. Mysterious here as well?”</strong>&nbsp; Returning her gaze back to their unscheduled visitor Evelyn offered her best and brightest smile to Mr. King, hoping he had not seen her earlier moment of weakness. Eve was determined to find a way out of this mess. If that meant she had to get close to the devil then so be it. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Lola's - IC</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mr Self Destruct</strong> on <strong>05-06-2012, 19:58:54</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				As King's fingers left Lola's flesh, they did so slowly, the man knowing exactly how much it made the woman uncomfortable.&nbsp; Lola's wasn't a whorehouse, after all, but rather a saloon, where the women were treated with much more respect and were afforded much more dignity.&nbsp; But that didn't stop Lola from placing Abby in his path, tossing her out like a piece of meat to satiate the hungry wolf.&nbsp; King grinned at the thought of the night prior, and as he circled the table, his fingertips brushed along Abby's slender neck, his dark eyes holding her own for a long moment before Evie spoke, drawing his attention to her.&nbsp; The sheriff returned her smile, his gaze drinking in her form.&nbsp; Even the tall gaunt figure couldn't help but be drawn in by her curves, but only briefly, his attention to his duty never keeping his attention away from King for very long.<br><br>"At least there are a few who are more hospitable, Lola..." he said.&nbsp; "Yes, some breakfast for me and my men.&nbsp; The new sheriff here has quite the appetite, and I'm sure it'll take more than grits to appease him.&nbsp; And as for my silent friend here, well...let's just say that he isn't one for talking.&nbsp; Not since the Apache cut out his tongue."<br><br>The tall, gaunt figure turned, glancing at the ladies, and smirked, before shrugging and glancing back outside.&nbsp; King chuckled, and leaned back in his seat, one hand rising to remove his dark hat and set it on the table before him.&nbsp; His long, dark hair was streaked with small strands of silver, but despite that, his hair was thick and full, the scalp of a much younger man.<br><br>"Some people just aren't made for conversation..." he said, glancing briefly at the tall gunman before his gaze settled on Lola.&nbsp; "I'm certainly hoping that you are, however.&nbsp; This can be an easy transition, or it can be quite painful.&nbsp; And you've got all these girls looking to you for leadership and protection.&nbsp; You don't want to let them down, do you?&nbsp; So come...let's talk.&nbsp; Tell me what concessions you're willing to make in order to help your new owner feel at home."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Lola's - IC</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Rolo</strong> on <strong>05-06-2012, 20:43:58</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				Daylight and the cool morning air broke through the opening of the abandoned mine shaft that Jackson inhabited from time to time.&nbsp; Life on the trail was not conducive for putting down roots, so he found this shaft and stored items that he could not take with him.&nbsp; <br><br>Jackson rubbed the sleep from his eyes as he peered out into the open with a wary eye.&nbsp; He left in the dark knowing that the townfolk would have no earthly idea where he was headed.&nbsp; Town was near five miles away and only two people knew of the hidaway, and he was certain that neither would willingly give up the information.&nbsp; <br><br>He stretched out the aches and pains from the short sleep on the ground and began to replay the events of the night before.&nbsp; He was not sure just exactly where everthing went to hell in a hand basket, but he knew that he had his work cut out for him to set things straight.&nbsp; First he had to get some information about the devil, King.&nbsp; One thing the Rangers taught him was, the more you know about the lawless, the better chance you had to stay alive.&nbsp; A fact that had helped him more than once in his bounty hunting.<br><br>Once satisfied that he was alone on the slope side of the ridge, he grabbed extra ammo and a Winchester from a stash and headed out to where he left the horse.&nbsp; The magnificent animal grazed on some long grass when he approached.&nbsp; He mounted the steed and pulled the reigns sharply to the north and gave it a little kick in the flanks.&nbsp; He planned on riding the ridge to keep his distance from town.&nbsp; He would make his way ten miles north of town to the Gunderson homestead.&nbsp; He knew Albert, his almost father in law, would believe in him and give him any help possible.&nbsp; He thought about Jeb, Sarah's baby brother, and figured that he was probably about twenty now, then he thought about Marianne's hot apple crisp pie and gave the horse another little kick to get him set to a trot.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Lola's - IC</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Miss Lilly</strong> on <strong>11-06-2012, 07:41:02</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				Eve's sudden movement made Lola jump a little. The legs of the chair scraped across the wooden floor as she pushed it back, and all she could think was that there'd be scratches in the timber that would need polishing out.&nbsp; A quick glance up at the blonde's face told Lola all she needed to know.&nbsp; Evelyn was thinking of leaving.<br><br>Lola was under no illusions as to the character of her oldest friend.&nbsp; She knew that Evelyn looked out for number one first, and that was fine.&nbsp; Lola didn't judge her for it. And quite honestly, at the moment, she wouldn't blame the younger woman if she did leave.&nbsp; King scared the willies out her, and she had a lot more experience dealing with the likes of him than Evie did.&nbsp; What scared her the most, though, was that he seemed to have slithered into town and quietly started taking over, completely undetected by anyone.&nbsp; And now, he had the Sheriff in his pocket as well!&nbsp; Where did that leave the good folk of Silver City?<br><br>Not really to Lola's surprise, Evelyn turned her sudden leave from the table into an invitation for King to sit.&nbsp; When he accepted her chair, and offer of breakfast, Lola gave Eve and almost imperceivable nod, indicating that she should go on to the kitchen as she had suggested.&nbsp; She'd have rathered the blonde stay, though. Evelyn was sharp as a tack, and good at reading people. Not to mention manipulating them.&nbsp; Usually it was to curry some small gift - jewellery, or money.&nbsp; But Lola had seen Evelyn use that skill in other ways as well.&nbsp; Not that Lola couldn't read people.&nbsp; She wouldn't have made such a success of the saloon if she couldn't.&nbsp; But Evie excelled in it.&nbsp; And it seemed that she had decided to stay afterall.&nbsp; Lola breathed a little easier.&nbsp; She felt much more confident with Evelyn by her side.&nbsp; Now, if she only had Jackson here as well...<br><br>Pushing those thoughts aside, Lola brought her full attention to King.&nbsp; Taking your eyes off a snake about to strike is a sure fire way to get bitten, and Lola planned on avoiding that for as long as possible.&nbsp; When he spoke of her girls, Lola felt the weight of responsibility for them rest heavily on her shoulders.&nbsp; Of course she didn't want to let them down.&nbsp; But she also didn't want them working for King.&nbsp; Because you could bet your bottom dollar that there'd be certain...perks, he'd be demanding from them, and her girls were not whores!<br><br>"Concessions?" Lola asked, as sweetly as she could manage.&nbsp; She leaned back in her chair, trying to adopt a more nonchalant pose.&nbsp; "I'm sure I don't know what you mean, Mr King.&nbsp; And all you've shown me so far is a piece of paper claiming that you own the land Lola's sits on.&nbsp; I'm not about to just take your word for that, you realise.&nbsp; I'll be having my lawyer look into it today.&nbsp; So I'd appreciate it if you'd stop trying to scare my girls."<br><br>The idea of calling Mr Sanders, her lawyer, hadn't occurred to her until just that minute, and Lola could nearly kick herself for not thinking of him before.&nbsp; At the very least, that should buy some time for Jackson to do...well, what ever it was that he planned on doing.&nbsp; They'd not had a chance to discuss a course of action before he'd had to leave town.&nbsp; But Lola was confident that he had something, some idea, up his sleeve.&nbsp; She just had to hold the fort until he got back.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Lola's - IC</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Loves</strong> on <strong>11-06-2012, 23:39:44</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Eve returned Lola’s nod, quietly shifting towards the kitchen, purposely ignoring Mr. King’s comment as he spoke of the Sherriff’s copious appetite. Though her eyes shifted towards the man in question just long enough to appreciate his masculine form before her attention was captured by Mr. Mysterious.&nbsp; Inwardly flinching at his loss, Eve moved closer and offered the silent man a charming smile. She smoothed her hand over his chest and leaned in to whisper <strong>”don’t you worry none about that sugar, I’m sure you can still show a girl a good time.”</strong> She let her eyes drop, trailing over his body to rest upon the area to which she was referring before stepping back and moving towards the kitchen. Evelyn moved with grace and confidence, swinging her hips from side to side, making sure to keep her pace slow and easy.<br><br>The second she disappeared behind the kitchen's swinging doors, Eve’s relaxed demeanor changed instantly. <strong>”Cookie (http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-d-A86vQRuTg/TzXw83PVhZI/AAAAAAAAAaU/Q3cwvU3WsgQ/s1600/madamcj.jpg)!”</strong> she hissed, bringing her voice down to a level of a desperate whisper <strong>”Cookie!”</strong> Eve called out again before opening the door a crack to peer out at the main floor of the saloon. She scanned the area making a point of tagging each one of Kings men, ensuring that they were not following her.&nbsp; Turning from the door she went to call for the cook again, however her words were swallowed by a squeak that tumbled from her lips. Shocked to find the very woman she was searching for now standing directly in front of her Evie released the breath she hadn't been aware of holding. <strong>”Heavens woman! Are you trying to put me in an early grave?”</strong> Placing her hands on the older woman’s shoulders, Eve guided her friend away from the door.&nbsp; <br><br>“My stars Miss Evie did you see him come in? Bold as brass, slipperier than a snake with eyes as cold as...”<br><br><strong>”Yes, yes, very sneaky with eyes as calculating as the devil! All the more reason for us to tread lightly, you hear? Now, here’s what I want you to do!”</strong> With Eve’s hands placed firmly on the cooks shoulders she turned the flustered woman around and gave her a friendly push. <strong>”Fix three plates for the snakes and make sure you don’t skimp on the rations you hear!”</strong> Eve’s lips twitched as Cookie took issue with&nbsp; Eve’s suggestion that she would ever consider offering less than what was expected. <strong>”I love you Cookie but for the love of all things holy,&nbsp; please! Go fix the plates!”</strong> <br><br>As Eve moved around the kitchen she opened and closed the cupboards, pulling out pots and pans and assorted spices while Cookie busied herself with prepping the plates of food. “Whatchew looking fer?” Cookie asked while stabbing a large pot with a spoon and pulling out a ladle full of beans. <strong>”There’s a rat in our house Cookie! What do you do when there’s a rat stalking you land?”</strong> Eve hissed as she narrowed her eyes, bending at the waist in an attempt to see at the back of the lower cupboards. <strong>”You get it before it gets you!”</strong> Eve continued before rising in victory and bumping her head on the top of the cupboard. <strong>” Dang it!”</strong> Eve snapped as she backed out carefully, rubbing her head and wincing at the throbbing pain.&nbsp; <br><br>Cookie moved quickly across the kitchen, grabbing at a clean towel in her haste. She submerged the cloth into a bucket of cold water and squeezed the excess clear before placing it on the blonde’s crown. “You caint kill him Miss Evie. What would Miss Lola say?”&nbsp; Evelyn’s temper began to lessen, bringing a strange calmness about her. She looked into Cookies kind, dark eyes and smiled. <strong>”I wasn’t plannin’ on killin’ him Cookie, I just planned on making him sicker than a dog. Besides, it looks like we are clean out of Red Squill.”</strong><br><br>Cookie sighed with relief “I’m sorry Miss Evie, I used it all on that nasty rat that’s been helping himself.” Secretly she knew of a cupboard that held more of the rat poison, known to kill the rat by paralyzing its heart. The taste was very bitter and would have certainly caused awareness that something was amiss, however unlike arsenic, red squill was a natural cause of vomiting. King and his men wouldn’t have died, but with any luck they just might have wished they had.&nbsp; Evelyn sighed and gave the cook a warm hug. <strong>”It’s fine Cookie. It was probably a bad idea. Knowing my luck King would have had me taste his food before he ate it anyway. The bastard!”</strong> Still holding the empty bottle of red squill and opting to leave the kitchen cupboards a mess, Evelyn moved along with Cookie towards the wooden table that held the three plates of food. <strong>”Better get some coffee to wash it down with, and I’ll need a tray.”</strong>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Lola's - IC</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mr Self Destruct</strong> on <strong>27-06-2012, 19:54:29</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"You're playing with fire, Miss Lola..." King said.&nbsp; "But by all means, contact your lawyer.&nbsp; See for yourself that everything is perfectly legal.&nbsp; But don't take too long...the longer you wait in giving me what I want, the less I can ensure that your saloon here will survive.&nbsp; I'm sure all these lovely ladies can find work as whores in Silver City...of course, why make them do that when they have it so good here?"<br><br>He glanced to the girls gathered, smiling darkly, letting his gaze circle the room before going back to Lola.&nbsp; <br><br>"Another thing to consider is that I have the law on my side...isn't that right, Mr. Irons?" he asked, without bothering to glance away from Lola.&nbsp; The new sheriff gave a nod, followed by a curt 'Yessir' before falling silent again.&nbsp; King grinned all the wider, and reached inside of his coat.&nbsp; When his hand came back out, he was holding one of his twin black and silver Colt .45's, the gun resting on the table, pointing directly at Lola's rather ample bosom.<br><br>He held the gun there, pointed directly at her, remaining still despite all the sudden gasps and cries of surprise from the girls around them.&nbsp; The sheriff shuffled nervously by the door, glancing to the tall man questioningly before looking back at King.&nbsp; The mute gunman didn't move, however, merely turning his head to glance at what was happening before his gaze returned to the outside of the saloon.<br><br>"The odds are against you, Lola..." he said, his voice cold and calm all at once.&nbsp; "I own this saloon, I own the law, and soon, I'll own this entire damned town.&nbsp; You have no recourse here, Lola.&nbsp; You have nowhere to turn.&nbsp; Now get up.&nbsp; You and I need to speak in private, and if I have to do it at gunpoint, then so be it."<br><br>He rose from the table, the gun held steady on the brunette across from him.&nbsp; 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Lola's - IC</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Miss Lilly</strong> on <strong>02-07-2012, 04:37:47</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The sudden appearance of King's weapon drew gasps of shock and surprise from the girls around the table, but not from Lola.&nbsp; In truth, she was surprised the snake hadn't drawn it earlier. It had been apparent from the moment he walked through the door that he was hell bent on getting his way, and if he had to get it at the point of a gun, then he'd go right on and do it.<br><br>Lola watched him as he rose from the table, the pistol still leveled at her heart. For the first time since he had shown her the deeds for the land the saloon stood on, she felt a sense of calm.&nbsp; Sure, things looked dire at the moment, but at least he was now showing his true colours, rather than masquerading as an upstanding citizen.<br><br>She smiled serenely at him, surreptitiously transferring her small pistol from the top of her right boot to the pocket hidden in her skirts.&nbsp; To date, she'd never had cause to draw her weapon in Silver City, but old habits die hard, and Lola didn't feel properly dressed without the reassuring pressure of the gun against her lower leg.&nbsp; Placing her hands palms down on the table so the bandit across from her could see she was unarmed, she stood regally, and walked gracefully around the table towards him.<br><br>"Mr King," she purred when she reached him, pressing herself into his side and running her hand down his arm to his pistol, applying enough downward pressure that he would be in no doubt that she expected him to lower it.&nbsp; "Is that really necessary?&nbsp; Are you so threatened by a group of women that you need to hide behind the barrel of a gun?"&nbsp; The insult was obvious, but so sweetly delivered that were he to react to it, he would just be proving Lola's point for her.&nbsp; "Or are you just worried that your natural charm alone isn't enough to entice me?"&nbsp; She grinned and winked at her girls, showing them that she wasn't in the least worried about dealing with King.&nbsp; That wasn't true, of course, but having all the girls in a flap was the last thing she needed at this hour of the morning.<br><br>"Please," she continued, her tone dripping with honey. "Join me in my office.&nbsp; Fanny will show you the way. I'll organise us some tea."<br><br>At the mention of her name, the slim blonde joined Lola at King's side, slipping her arm through his and giving him her most radiant smile.&nbsp; No matter what anyone said about Lola's girls, they were well trained, and at all times, excellent hostesses. Leaving her guest with Fanny, Lola headed for the kitchen.<br><br>"Evie," she hissed as soon as she was out of King's earshot.&nbsp; She found her friend organising the breakfast tray with Cook.&nbsp; "Change of plans.&nbsp; King wants to seem me 'alone'...like I'm going to let <strong>that</strong> happen," she reassured Evelyn before the younger woman could begin protesting. "Cookie, please take the breakfast tray out to the new Sheriff and his associate, Eve, bring a tray of tea to my office. And be quick about it!"&nbsp; The urgency in Lola's voice was unmistakable, as was the tension.&nbsp; She turned on her heel and left the two woman staring after her, not even giving them a chance to respond.<br><br>Despite her misgivings about spending even a second alone in the company of King, Lola hitched her smile back into place and entered her office.&nbsp; Fanny was leaning back against her desk, her golden laugh tinkling through the office.&nbsp; Lola could hear that the humour wasn't genuine, but she doubted that King would have any idea.&nbsp; She wondered what the bastard had said that was even remotely funny.&nbsp; Probably nothing.&nbsp; Fanny was no doubt trying to disarm him with her feminine wiles, which Lola had to admit, worked on most men.<br><br>Closing the door softly behind her, Lola took her seat behind her desk, her hands resting in her lap, out of sight of King and close to her pistol, should she need to draw it. She smiled her thanks at Fanny as the woman glanced over her shoulder for instruction, but didn't dismiss her.&nbsp; If the pretty blonde could keep King distracted until Evelyn arrived, more the better.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Lola's - IC</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Breathless Intent</strong> on <strong>08-07-2012, 11:23:44</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Dark blue eyes swam with ushed tears as she waited those few pitiful moments for Lola's response.Swept up in a gale of unconstrained emotion, Eve's unexpectedly curt response was met with a near snarl as Abby sucked in a breath in anticipation of laying into the snide blonde. However, Lola's reassuring voice broke in before she could snap back an equally snide retort. In no mood to acquiesce to anything Eve suggested, Abby stood her ground and crossed her arms under her breasts, pointedly ignoring the bossy blonde. The agitated expression writ across her delicate features soon melted into relief as soon as the words "He's fine.." crossed Lola's lips. Releasing a heavy breath, the tense set of her shoulders instantly relaxed and she could feel herself starting to nod in agreement with Lola's suggestion that Jackson could take care of himself. <em>Yes, he's like a cat - nine lives and always landin' on his feet.</em> Finding a ghost of a smile, she finally lowered herself into the seat offered at Lola's side. <br><br>As Lola prattled on about putting on a brave face, Abby found a bit of that frustration starting to creep back into her system. <em>She wants us all just to pretend like nothing's happened? The whole town's gone to hell, and she's sittin' here thinkin' of how to get more money out of the customers.</em> Soured by that uncharitable thought, her jaw tightened when Lola leaned in to suggest a private meeting in her office. She could use the alone time to try to get some clue as to what King mentioned the night before about owning the saloon. Just as she nodded her acceptance of Lola's invitation, the subject of her private concerns sauntered into the room with two strangers at his side. <em>Just saunters in like he own the place...he wouldn't dare if it weren't true, would he?</em> Wary blue eyes track King's every movement, noting the familiar way he approached the table of women. When his eyes touched hers, she felt an unbidden twinge between her legs and a deep pink flushed her cheeks. Dropping her gaze immediately, she turned her eyes to the faces of the women surrounding her. Most wore looks of confusion that reflected some of the confusion she herself felt. Those familiar questions popped up again as King prodded Lola, why was he so keen on getting her acquiescence if he has every legal right to what he is doing? And why come in here like this, scaring the whole staff if he intends only to keep them going as they always have? <br><br>Worrying at her lower lip, she mused on those questions for a&nbsp; few moments longer, ignoring most of what was going on around her. Only when King spoke Jackson's name did she shoot her eyes up to him, a frown creasing her brow at his casual insistence that Jackson was responsible for the sheriff's murder. Still, she had more sense than to pipe in at that moment, so she forced herself to try to relax again. It was proving an impossible task, however, as Lola was shooting her guilty looks and offering King an invitation to their table. Abby had no time to consider Lola's sudden guilty conscience, as she was soon thoroughly distracted by King's rough fingers dragging along the curve of her neck. Once more, she felt those sparks of excitement shooting inside of her, mingled with the sense of dread she had of the man. Their night together had been violently passionate, and while she recalled the pleasure, she still bore the marks from his rough treatment. Trapped by his lingering stare, she let loose her pent up breath as soon as he tore his eyes from hers and returned his attention to Lola. <br><br>As the discussion moved to talk of lawyers, Abby found her attention drifting again. What would happen if King actually did end up winning this tug of war with Lola? Would he take her place in the saloon? It seemed that if he wanted to do that, he wouldn't be making such a fuss about getting Lola on board. And if he didn't intend to do that, why this awkward public approach? Staring intently at the tabletop as she mulled the questions over, she didn't notice King drawing his gun until the gasps and cries from the other women drew her from her musings. Glancing up, Abby's own delayed gasp joined the murmuring of the gathered crowd. Wide eyes stared in disbelief at the man across from both her and Lola. Is this what she would be signing up for if King took over control? A gun pointed at her if she dared to voice protest to a command? Glancing from King to Lola, she felt the panic that sprang up in her slowly start to ebb as she noted Lola's calm demeanor. If Abby was in her place, she'd be wailing about now. But Lola's calm smile and reassuring voice seemed to defuse the situation. <br><br>Abby's panic slowly shifted to suspicion. Lola seemed far too comfortable approaching King with his pistol drawn. And offering Fanny up to escort the man upstairs alone? <em>Maybe she's hoping another girl will keep him satisfied.</em> The snide internal comment made her shift uncomfortably in her chair, remembering the task she had been given the night before. Incapable of sitting still any longer, she pushed away from the table. She didn't want to go upstairs just yet, she didn't want to be filing past Lola's office while Lola and King were discussing "concessions." Had she been one such concession? The thought sent chills racing through her and made her want to go soak in a hot tub. As she paced around the large dining table, she finally took notice of the two strangers among them. Glancing to the new sheriff, she couldn't keep the frown from her face. This was the man to benefit from Jackson being wrongly accused of the former sheriff's death. And he hadn't lifted a finger when King drew a gun on a room full of women. What kind of sheriff was that? Dismissing the man with an upturned nose, she looked down the path Lola and King (and Fanny) had taken moments before. The whole thing was not sitting right with her. Watching the kitchen door, she decided to wait for Eve to inevitably follow after Lola. She wanted to talk to some of the girls, but she didn't dare question Lola's motives when Eve would be snapping at her heels for daring to question their fearless leader.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Lola's - IC</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Loves</strong> on <strong>22-07-2012, 16:33:16</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(http://www.pictures13.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/Marisa-Miller-Photos.jpg)</div>Cookie shuffled off to fill a coffee pot leaving Evelyn to finish dishing out the men’s breakfast. The good natured cook worried over the blonde’s vindictive intentions and moved to a small cupboard to secretly slip the second bottle of Red Squill, that lay hidden within, into her apron pocket.&nbsp; The movement had not been lost on Eve and soon the suspicious young woman turned her full attention onto the unsuspecting cook. <br><br><strong>“Cookie!”</strong> Eve hissed in a loud whisper. <br><br>Evelyn’s sharp command had Cookie jumping, pressing a trembling fist against her chest as her heart beat wildly against her ribcage.&nbsp; “Lordy Miss Evie! What are you tryin’ to do? Kill me dead?”<br><br>Evie narrowed her eyes and moved with haste across the kitchen, her dress rustling with the quick succession of her steps. <strong>”What do you have in your hand Cookie?”</strong> Evie asked bluntly, accusing the older woman of hiding something. <br><br>“Nothing Miss Evie…I swear to the lord above! I ain’t got nothing in my hands” As if to prove her point Cookie slipped her hand from her pocket and raised both to show she had nothing to hide. It might have worked had her eyes not given her away, straying to the tiny bottle nestled against her soft tummy, hidden within the pocket of her apron. <br><br>Evelyn followed Cookies eyes, trailing over the robust woman’s form to settle upon the small bump that hinted of deceit. <strong>”What’s in your pocket Cookie?”</strong> Evie asked in a tone as smooth as silk wrapped in a warning that spoke of her temper that burned just under the surface. She moved towards the older woman with purpose, challenging the older woman with her eyes. <br><br>“Now Miss Evie, you said it - you says it ain’t no good idea posionin’ that snake”&nbsp; Cookie pleaded stepping back until she was forced against the wooden work table.<br><br>Standing directly in front of the stout cook Eve placed her hands upon her round hips and looked sternly into Cookie’s eyes, intentionally intimidating her friend. Without a single word spoken she held her hand out, palm facing up, and wiggled her fingers.&nbsp; They stood quietly eyeing each other, waiting for the other to back down, both stubborn as mules. The moment Evelyn spotted the twitch in Cookies eye she knew she had won. <strong>”Don’t ever lie to me again Cookie”</strong> Eve warned before slipping her fingers into the apron pocket to retrieve the small bottle.&nbsp; <strong>”Now get the tray. We won’t talk of this ever again”</strong><br><br>Returning to the abandoned breakfast plates Evelyn absentmindedly toyed with the bottle of Red Squill and smiled, imagining King writhing in pain. Carefully she opened the lid calculating how much to use so not to cause more than a bad stomach ache, a really bad stomach ache. Enough for King and his men to wish they had died without actually allowing them the sweet relief of their final slumber. Her smile grew malicious at the thought of King sweating and cursing all that was holey. The only thing that would make it better would be for him to know it was her that had brought him to his knees. <br><br>“Please Miss Evie, don’t go through with it child. He’ll know it was us and then…lordy have mercy on our souls!” Cookie implored the younger woman, hoping to appeal to her loyalty for Lola and the family that made up the saloons employees.&nbsp; They stood in deathly silence, neither aware of Lola’s approach until the gentle creak sounded, signaling a third member had joined their party of two.<br><br><em>"Evie, change of plans.&nbsp; King wants to see me 'alone'...like I'm going to let <strong>that</strong> happen.&nbsp; Cookie, please take the breakfast tray out to the new Sheriff and his associate, Eve, bring a tray of tea to my office. And be quick about it!"</em><br><br>Lola’s timely interruption had Evie jumping out of her skin and the bottle slipping from her grasp. It fell to the floor, spilling its contents rendering the poison useless. It wasn’t clear if one or more of the prepared plates had been splattered in the process, or even if enough had been administered to do much damage at all. Eve was left with only her hope and a sinking feeling that all might be lost. <br><br>“There ain't no bigger sign Miss Evie. God's will ain't to be ignored” Cookie whispered as she bent to clean the spill before the blonde could suggest picking up what may be left to use in her nefarious plan.<br><br><strong>”Take care of the breakfast plates”</strong> Evie grumbled as she moved back to the giant wood stove to prepare the tea. <strong>”Let’s hope we still have some of those biscuits you made. With any luck King might choke on one.”</strong> <br><br>“Miss Evie!” Cookie exclaimed trying hard not to giggle and failing.<br><br>Tossing her friend a playful wink, Evelyn quickly gathered a plate and filled it with various baked goods, including the dry biscuits that looked much more appealing than they actually were.&nbsp; If she couldn’t poison him at least she could make sure he had some digestive discomfort. <br><br>It only took a few moments before the swinging door opened to reveal Cookie holding a tray with two plates piled high with delicious scrambled eggs, bacon, beans and homemade bread. <strong>”Gentleman, come and get it!”</strong> Evelyn announced cheerfully. Though her message was for both men, Evelyn’s eyes settled upon the Sheriff’s with a sultry smile painting upon her lips. <strong>”Don’t be shy boys, come and get it while it’s hot.”</strong> <br><br>Cookie giggled as she fussed with the plates while Evelyn moved, purposely swinging her hips as she walked proudly towards Lola’s office. She didn’t look to see if the Sheriff was watching, but she hoped her message had been clear. <br><br>Balancing the tray on one hand, Evelyn knocked on the closed door before entering. Gracefully she swept through the doorway, leaving the door open in her wake. Eve’s eyes pierced Fanny’s dismissing her clearly without a single word spoken. To Eve’s amusement the girl tried to hold her own, challenging Eve’s authority. It was true that Lola had not requested the girl to vacate the office however that was before Eve had arrived.&nbsp; Cocking a shapely eyebrow Evelyn turned the full force of her glare onto the girl causing the less experienced of the two to shrink back. <br><br>Evelyn shared a look with Lola as Fanny quickly made a hasty exit, offering a polite farewell to Mr. King before taking her leave. The calculating blonde busied herself preparing Lola’s tea exactly as Lola liked it and handed the cup to her boss and best friend, offering her a reassuring smile left hidden from King’s view. It was the strength that Lola showed in her eyes that gave Eve the courage to face the devil himself. Normally Eve did her best to avoid King. However his attack on the saloon was striking at her very heart. Like any cornered animal, Evelyn was not going down without a fight.<br><br>Slowly Evie turned on her heels, boldly facing King.&nbsp; She allowed her gaze to travel over him while leaning her body against the desk, perching on the edge showing a flash of skin as she playfully swung one leg. <strong>”Mr. King, tell me…”</strong> Evie asked, pausing for effect <strong>”how do you like it?”</strong> Her softly spoken question held a duel meaning. Each word was impregnated with a sultry tone as she fluttered her long, dark lashes and waited for his reply. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Lola's - IC</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mr Self Destruct</strong> on <strong>30-10-2012, 04:33:01</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(http://i132.photobucket.com/albums/q15/doogieporker/94uqfb7x0ihp3724e256.jpg)</div>Desmond narrowed his eyes at Lola as she came near, her insult coated with enough flirtatious charm to keep him from putting a bullet in her heart then and there.&nbsp; He slid his pistol into the holster at his hip, and eyed her as she did her best to seduce him.&nbsp; Fanny’s arm slid about his own and the buxom blonde flashed her most charming smile, though he could see past that charm to the fear in her eyes.&nbsp; But she was loyal enough to Lola, or foolish enough, to believe that the woman would get them through anything.<br><br>Lola couldn’t get them through this.&nbsp; Nobody could.<br><br>He flashed a glance at the Sheriff and his hired gun, who nodded.&nbsp; They remained where they stood, though the Sheriff seemed more than a little interested in all the flesh on display.&nbsp; At King’s glance, however, he straightened visibly and did his best to look grim, at least until his boss was headed toward Lola’s office.<br><br>King winked at Abby as he passed her, and he couldn’t help but smirk at the way she shied away from him, as though their night together had been a mistake for her.&nbsp; He chuckled quietly, drawing a curious glance from Fanny.&nbsp; He smiled to her, and gave her a wink, as well, though he couldn’t help but glance back at Abby once more before he lowered himself into a chair just inside of the back room of the saloon that served as Lola’s private office.<br><br>Once behind closed doors, the Sheriff visibly relaxed.&nbsp; At Evie’s insistence, he moved to the table, eying the plate of food before him hungrily.&nbsp; He glanced to his mute companion, who studied him with a raised brow, before he too moved to the table, albeit more slowly.&nbsp; It was obvious he didn’t trust Evie or Lola, but the mixture of hunger for flesh and food made him warily take a seat and watch to see if the Sheriff had any reaction to the food before he too began to eat.<br><br>At Evie’s entrance to the office, King glanced away from Fanny as she stood and left the office at the more tenured woman’s insistence.&nbsp; It was clear that Evie was in control here, or at least wanted to be, and what was even clearer was the desperation she no doubt felt when she draped herself across the desk and asked her loaded question.&nbsp; King turned his gaze to Lola for a moment before he grinned and leaned back in his chair, folding his hands in his lap quietly.&nbsp; <br><br>“You’ll find out, sooner or later…” he answered, his cold, dark eyes meeting her own.&nbsp; “You might even like it.&nbsp; But that’s not what we’re discussing at the moment, is it, Lola?”<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Lola's - IC</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Miss Lilly</strong> on <strong>06-11-2012, 08:26:12</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(http://www.celebritiesheight.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/Katharine-McPhee.jpg)</div><br>Doing her best to keep her fear in check as King glowered at her from across her desk, Lola was grateful for the surreptitious smile from Evie.&nbsp; The younger woman was on board, there was no doubt in Lola's mind.&nbsp; With their two heads, and with any luck, Jackson's as well, Lola truly believed no one - not even Desmond King - would be able to throw her out of her saloon.<br><br>But that didn't mean she could lower her guard.&nbsp; Oh, no.&nbsp; Lola knew better than to turn her back on a predator ready to attack.&nbsp; She steeled herself for what could be a very unpleasant conversation.<br><br>Noting King's dismissal of Eve's attempts at wrong-footing him, Lola held his intense gaze levelly, not allowing herself the luxury of blinking.&nbsp; In part because she wanted King to know just how strong her will was, but also because in her mind, being the first to blink in a situation such as this was a sign of weakness.&nbsp; And although King may think her weak purely because she was a woman, nothing could be further from the truth.&nbsp; Lola had endured more hardship in her lifetime than a man like King could possibly imagine, let alone live with.<br><br>A small smile graced Lola's painted lips.<br><br>"Well, Mr King," she placed a slight emphisis on the title, implying that Desmond King didn't deserve to be addressed in such a fashion. "In all honesty, I'm not entirely sure what it is we're talkin' about. Why don't you just lay all your cards on the table? Unless, of course, you'd like me to call your bluff."<br><br>The challenge was out of Lola's mouth before she could bite it back.&nbsp; It certainly wasn't what she'd planned to say. But, hell...maybe it was time the snake did just that. Lola had to admit she was more than a little curious as to what, exactly, King expected of her, her girls, and her saloon. If he planned on tearing it down, why the attempts to get her on side? And if he planned on keeping Lola's open, surely he didn't expect her to work for him?&nbsp; Hell, she'd take all her girls and find another two bit town to set up shop in if it came to it.&nbsp; She'd done it once, she could do it again!<br><br>But, Silver City was her home, and despite the contempt she got from many of the womenfolk in town, she actually cared about the people here.&nbsp; Whatever King had planned didn't stop at <strong>Lola's</strong>, of that she was sure.&nbsp; But what on earth could that be?
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Lola's - IC</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mr Self Destruct</strong> on <strong>29-01-2013, 06:15:42</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Desmond smiled at her dare, and his eyes narrowed for a moment as he held her gaze.&nbsp; Casually, he leaned his chair back, resting it on the back legs, one arm rising to fall nonchalantly over the back of it.&nbsp; He rocked back and forth slightly, letting the silence grow between them, his gaze never leaving Lola's own, no matter how much he would have liked to let it roam over Evie's form once again.&nbsp; But he was a man of control, and if he couldn't control himself, how could he hope to eventually rule the entire town?<br><br>"It's a simple plan, really..." he said.&nbsp; "I want you to run things, the way they are.&nbsp; You're a businesswoman, and you're quite successful at it.&nbsp; This place wouldn't have survived this long if you weren't.&nbsp; But as you well know, money is the key to true success.&nbsp; Without those horny cowboys coming in here and rustling up your girls now and again, you wouldn't have so much as a tumbleweed blowing, let alone one of your talented gals."<br><br>His gaze did go to Evie then, and he winked, a smirk coming over his features for a moment before his gaze moved back to Lola.<br><br>"I could simply tell you what I've got planned, but that would ruin the surprise.&nbsp; But suffice it to say, I've been working hard.&nbsp; First, the deed to the land your saloon here sits upon, and then getting my man out there installed as Sheriff.&nbsp; Course, there is the ugly matter of that Jackson fellow...he'll have to be brought to justice sooner or later.&nbsp; We cannot simply let him go about his business after shooting the last sheriff, after all.'<br><br>"But more importantly, there's the matter of you, my dear.&nbsp; You sit here on your throne, ruling over these young women like you're some kind of matriarch, acting benevolent and wise while your girls hike up their skirts and spread their legs for every swinging dick to walk through those doors.&nbsp; Oh yes, I'm well aware of your reputation.&nbsp; But no matter what you say to protect the dignity of this place, Lola's is a whorehouse, plain and simple.&nbsp; And I mean to keep your whores working their tails off...figuratively speaking."<br><br>He paused then, letting his words soak in for a moment before he spoke again.<br><br>"Is that clear enough for you?" he asked.&nbsp; "Or do we need to play a new game of cards?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Lola's - IC</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Loves</strong> on <strong>30-01-2013, 05:42:59</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Evie wouldn't allow herself the luxury of flinching at King’s response to her “innocent” question. After all it had been designed to fit two meanings, she couldn’t very well bristle with the one he had chosen to answer. Her full lips twitched into a smile, even though she tried very hard to remain emotionless. It had certainly amused her to learn of his ego. Evelyn’s eyes trailed lower over his body silently assessing what he might have to offer. It was a very well-known fact that the larger the ego the more it was used to compensate. The insult was on the tip of her tongue and would remain there as Lola began to lay out her demands. It was clear her boss and friend had enough of dancing to the same old tired tune that had been playing between King and he saloons rightful owner. Lola wanted to hear what King had in mind, and for that mater so did Evelyn.<br><br><div class="floatleft">(http://vh1.mtvnimages.com/sitewide/flipbooks/img/movies/people/m/miller_marisa/2612551_10.jpg?quality=0.85)</div>The cool blond remained perched at the edge of Lola’s desk with her slim fingers curled around the edge of the solid wooden desktop. She let out a disgruntled breath and looked over her shoulder to glance at Lola, rolling her eyes. Of course King wasn’t going to lay down his full hand. She returned her focus onto the man as he revealed part of his plans. Though in all honesty what he had to offer didn’t exactly come as a surprise. Eve very much doubted Lola’s was shocked to learn his thoughts on the saloon, or how it would come to play into the grand scheme he was keeping close to his chest. <br><br>She worried Lola would become emotional when Jackson’s name was brought up along with the trumped up crime that had been laid upon the cowboy, neatly wrapped up in hangman’s noose. It would seem that King’s digs were not finished and soon after opening the wound he applied the salt with a second blow indicating that Lola’s pride and joy was nothing but a whore house. Eve knew how hard Lola worked to avoid such claims, true or not. <br><br>Evelyn refused to look away as King glanced in her direction, offering a wink and a smirk that was answered with a challenging lift of her brow. She wondered just how much he knew of what went on in the privacy of her bedroom. Eve had been selling her wares for some time, though only to a selected few. The average cowboy just couldn’t afford what she had on offer. Refusing to feel guilty over it, Eve justified her actions with the comforting thought that she was doing nothing more other than providing a service that could have been given freely by the men’s wives if they had a mind to. Was it her fault their mind was filled with doilies and town gossip? Perhaps if they placed their mouth around their husbands cock once and awhile the men wouldn’t be willing to pour a small fortune at Eve’s feet. In her mind the women had no one to blame but themselves. She would not apologize to anyone. Nor was she willing to share her earnings with the likes of Mr. King!<br><br><strong>”To be clear”</strong> began Eve in a tone of voice that remained calm despite her rising temper. <strong>”What you aim to collect from us is a cut of the action? Nothing more?”</strong>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Lola's - IC</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Miss Lilly</strong> on <strong>02-02-2013, 08:38:24</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				It took all of Lola's self control not to whip out her pistol and shoot King in the heart at his insinuation that Jackson had killed the Sherriff.&nbsp; Lola was, if anything, more protective of the cowboy than she was of her girls, despite the fact that he could well and truly look after himself.&nbsp; But, that wasn't something that she wanted Desmond King to know.&nbsp; It was bad enough that he had framed Jackson for murder - she didn't want to give King a reason to think that he could use her loyalty to Jackson against her. Or vice versa.<br><br>Somehow, she managed to bring her focus back to what King was saying just in time to hear him call <em>Lola's</em> a whorehouse.&nbsp; Again, she had to fight an almost uncontrollable urge to throttle the man with her bare hands.&nbsp; The idea of watching the light slowly die in his dark, evil eyes was very attractive in that moment, and if it hadn't been for Eve piping up at just the right time, Lola may have just launched herself across the desk at him.<br><br>The opportunity to take a few deep, calming breaths while Evie asked her question was enough to steady Lola's voice.&nbsp; Before King could answer, she added her own thoughts to the discussion.<br><br>"I'm afraid you've completely got the wrong idea about my establishment, Mister King.&nbsp; <em>Lola's</em> does not...I repeat, does not," she placed extra emphasis on the reiterated phrase, "uniformly prostitute out the girls.&nbsp; If...and it is an if...they choose to take a man to their beds, that's entirely their business .&nbsp; And what goes on behind closed doors makes no nevermind to me."&nbsp; Lola smiled her sweetest smile across the desk.&nbsp; "So, you see...there is no 'action' to be taking a cut of.&nbsp; I'm sorry to be disappointing you...."<br><br>The simulated apology hung, unfinished, in the air. There could be no doubt that she was not sorry. Not one little bit.&nbsp; But again, the words were said so sweetly that it was nigh on impossible to take offense to them.&nbsp; Fondling the grip of her pistol through her skirts, Lola watched King's face intently.&nbsp; Would he have any sort of tell that would give her an idea of what was really going on around here?&nbsp; Or was he more cunning than that?&nbsp; It seemed that only time would tell.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Lola's - IC</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mr Self Destruct</strong> on <strong>03-02-2013, 05:38:57</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Oh, there'll be more..." he said, grinning lustfully at Evie.&nbsp; "But we'll get to that in a moment."<br><br>He moved to say more, but a sudden outburst from the main room had him rising from his chair.&nbsp; The sheriff's food hadn't settled too well with him, the added ingredients from the kitchen making him sick as a dog.&nbsp; He had vomited on the tabletop, making the mute gunman rise and back off in disgust, and as King burst from the room, his hand going to his gun, the sheriff could only stare at him stupidly before vomiting again.&nbsp; A few of the girls around the table snickered at his misfortune, but most of them looked fearfully at King.&nbsp; After all, the truth of so violent an outburst was readily apparent.<br><br>Turning back to Lola, he narrowed his eyes dangerously.&nbsp; <br><br>"You try to poison my men?" he asked, knowing all too well the answer.&nbsp; "You're playing a deadly game here.&nbsp; Will you gamble with the lives of your girls to try to harm me and my men?"&nbsp; His hand lowered, and he wrapped his fingers around the mother-of-pearl grip on his pistol.&nbsp; Instantly, his mind flashed with murder, with the vision of him pulling his gun and putting a quarter sized hole in her forehead.&nbsp; But Lola was important.&nbsp; If he could sway her to his way of thinking, then the rest of the women would follow.&nbsp; Once they did, they could be swayed to his cause, and their influence could spread throughout the city and sway others.&nbsp; And for a man who was setting himself up as the new public face of Silver City, he had to remember that a good public image would work for before he took power, but not after.&nbsp; And after he owned this city, it wouldn't matter what people thought of him.<br><br>"Get ahold of yourself!" he roared, turning back to face his sheriff.&nbsp; The man coughed, trying to clear his throat, while the mute gunman merely glared at those around him, silently questioning who had tried to poison their food.&nbsp; "Get out, both of you.&nbsp; We're done here.&nbsp; But we'll be back.&nbsp; And when we return, all you girls will have a decision to make.&nbsp; You'll choose to stick with Lola, the one who lets keeps you safe...but keeps you working here, for scraps, with no chance to rise above what you are.&nbsp; Or you can choose to side with me, work for me, and have the chance for a future.&nbsp; You can have a chance to be better than this.&nbsp; I urge you to take that chance.&nbsp; Ask Abby.&nbsp; She can tell you what's in store."<br><br>With a grin at Lola and a wink at Abby, he and his men walked out, leaving them behind to decide their fate.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Lola's - IC</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Miss Lilly</strong> on <strong>28-02-2013, 06:05:18</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				It seemed that King had been about to finally reveal something of what he had planned, when the commotion from out in the saloon interupted him.&nbsp; Following him out into the ruckus, Lola couldn't help but laugh at the sight of the Sherriff clutching his stomach and looking around like a small, scared, boy, completely convinced that someone had dosed his food with poison.&nbsp; Lola knew Cookie would never do such a thing, but a sidelong glance at Evie suggested that her friend just might.<br><br>"Just because your <em>man</em>," Lola drawled, struggling to keep the sarcasm out of her voice, "has a weak stomach, Mister King, does not mean he's been poisoned.&nbsp; Maybe he's just not used to being in the company of ladies. Or maybe he simply doesn't have the stomach for your kind of business."&nbsp; The determined woman lifted her chin defiantly at King, even as his hand went for his gun.&nbsp; Lola doubted he'd do anything stupid. Not in front of so many witnesses.&nbsp; He'd have to slaughter the entire staff, and that would not go unnoticed in town.&nbsp; Even the new 'sheriff' wouldn't be able to sweep such an act under the carpet.<br><br>Once it was clear there was no immediate danger, laughter swept through Lola's girls.&nbsp; The stress of the morning was lifted somewhat as they giggled and pointed at the back of the obviously ill sheriff as King tried to shepherd him out the door, still clutching his stomach.&nbsp; Lola, however, wasn't laughing.&nbsp; She had heard King's parting statement cut through the hilarity, and once he was gone, her gaze turned questioningly to Abby.&nbsp; Something had obviously happened last night that she needed to know, and it was high time the young woman came clean about exactly what had transpired in the upstairs bedroom.<br><br>"Abby. Evie.&nbsp; My office, now."&nbsp; Lola's tone was clipped and completely business like, and caused the laughter to die immediately.&nbsp; There could be no doubt that she was annoyed.&nbsp; Angry, even.&nbsp; Lola didn't anger easily, and in all the time she had been running the saloon, the girls had never seen her lose her temper, especially with one of them. "The rest of you clean up this mess.&nbsp; We'll continue our discussion later."<br><br>With that, Lola turned on her heal and swept into her office. Her instructions were obviously not to be argued with, and it seemed clear that she expected Abby and Evie to follow her immediately.&nbsp; However, even the short space of time alone in her office was too much.&nbsp; She paced back and forth, agitated, her thoughts racing about King. And Abby. And Evie.&nbsp; How had everything gone so wrong, so suddenly? And more importantly, where the hell was Jackson?
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Lola's - IC</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Loves</strong> on <strong>08-03-2013, 21:04:51</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Eve jumped at the sound of the ruckus coming from the main parlor. She followed King out of the small office, though her pace was decidedly more of a saunter than it was an explosion. The vision that greeted them was beyond priceless. Evie had to bite the inside of her cheek to keep from laughing aloud. She fought the smug smirk that tugged at the corner of her lips and held her breath so to keep from showing any sign of amusement. And it was amusing. <br><br>Her eyes registered innocence as King turned on Lola, accusing her of poisoning his man. It was funny just how wrong one man could be, first with his assumption that Lola’s would be easy pickings, and now with the assumption that Lola had anything to do with the alleged poisoning. <br><br>A cold sweat took hold of the blonde as her brown eyes tracked King’s hand and watched as his fingers circled the handle of his gun. Did she go too far with the poisoning? Cookie had tried to warn her, and in the end the application of the red squill had been an accident. Eve had been holding the bottle when Lola entered the kitchen causing the bottle to slip from Eve’s hands. Its contents had spilled onto the floor and table. How was she supposed to know if it had breached the breakfast as well? <br><br>Not that she regretted it. Not for one minute. <br><br>The breath she hadn’t realized she had been holding released on a soft sigh as Eve unconsciously relaxed her once tense shoulders and watched as King turned away from Lola and barked his orders to his men. For a moment Eve’s eyes locked with the mute man. She would not back down or show fear, hers was an expression worthy of the best poker players in Silver City. She’d been playing there game for many years now and had become an excellent actress. <br><br>However, she couldn’t resist blowing the ill Sheriff an air kiss. <br><br>As king addressed the girls of the salon Eve took an obvious step towards Lola, signalling her loyalty to her friend. Her brown eyes narrowed in the direction of Abby. Evie had always distrusted the girl, but now it would seem she had even more reason to. Maybe now Lola would throw the tramp out onto her backside with nothing more than the tatty dress she had on! <br><br>Eve was not at all surprised to hear Lola’s orders barked out with precision, and so the cool blonde pushed away from the wall she had been leaning against and moved smoothly into the office once again. She paused only long enough to watch her friend pace before moving to the seat in which King had once occupied, and quietly waited. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Lola's - IC</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Breathless Intent</strong> on <strong>11-03-2013, 10:47:14</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Subconsciously tugging at her lower lip, Abby's suspicious blue gaze followed King as he was escorted away by Fanny toward Lola's office. His final backward glance came unexpectedly, causing her to hurriedly flash him a bright smile in an attempt to mask the wheels spinning in her head. Abby was no fool, and she'd do her damnedest to stay in Desmond King's good graces until she knew full well what was going on between him and Lola. <br><br>Amidst the tension and uncertainty of the room, the bright tinkling sound of laughter broke through like sunshine on a cloudy day. The heavy silence that had befallen the room of women and two strangers was lifted by the appearance of two dark haired children. Annabel, being chased by her twin brother Timmy, weaved around the skirted legs of the women standing around the room, finally finding her mother seated at the end of the table. Climbing up onto her mother's lap, Annabel giggled over her shoulder at Timmy. "I win!" The familiar sight of Pearl's two children playing in the morning returned a much needed sense of normalcy to the room. Annabel and Timmy were as much a part of <em>Lola's</em> as anyone else, perhaps more so, since the two small children had just about everyone wrapped around their little fingers. Abby had never had much interest in children until she met Pearl's twins; they were darling children, bright and sweet tempered, and they managed to make <em>Lola's</em> feel more of a home than Abby could have imagined. It was their presence as much as anything else that kept so many of the girls grounded and feeling like they were more than just the hired women the town's women painted them to be. <br><br>Watching the two children settle at the table for breakfast, Abby was suddenly struck with a new concern. What could King's interest in <em>Lola's</em> mean for Pearl and her two children? He hadn't given her any specifics about what his plans for the saloon and its girls would be, but she was suddenly left to wonder whether two innocent children could be a casualty of the war of wills between King and Lola. <br><br>Abby's concern for the two children was interrupted by the groaning sound of the new sheriff. His face had taken on a sickly gray pallor and he was clutching his middle in that age old display of extreme discomfort. Frowning in confusion at his sudden display of illness, she wondered what could have suddenly upset him. Then she remembered Eve insisting that the lawman and his companion eat. <em>She couldn't possibly be that stupid, could she?</em> The response to her silent question was the contents of the sheriff's stomach deposited on the table in front of him. The room erupted into cries of concern, disgust, and&nbsp; amusement at the plight of the retching man. Abby stared in wide eyed horror at the response of laughter by the women. They were all completely insane! Frozen in place, she turned her horrified eyes to King as soon as he burst from Lola's office. Met with the undignified sight of his righthand man vomiting up the contents of his breakfast plate, he understandably let his fury out on Lola. <br><br>The heated exchange culminated with the three men storming out and King's parting invitation for everyone to turn speculative eyes on Abby. Without giving her a chance to try to deflect King's comment, Lola barked for Abby to confer with her in her office. With Eve. Snapping her eyes toward the blonde, she caught her wicked glare and found herself returning the angry stare with one of her own. <em>What nerve does that viper have after the stunt she just pulled?</em> Roiling with all manner of emotions, Abby latched onto her anger and clutched it tight as she stomped after Lola and Eve into Lola's office. Not bothering to hide her emotions, she slammed the door after her and turned her angry eyes on Lola. "Don't you dare act like I have done something wrong! I just did what <em>you</em> told me to!" Unwittingly she crossed her arms over her chest, remembering that initial feeling of having been sacrificed to the wolf. "You sent me up there with him knowing full well what he would do! And for what? What did it buy you, Lola? Jackson is run out of town and King is saying he owns the ground we walk on!" After that outburst, she turned her stormy blue eyes on Eve and snapped "And what in hell is wrong with you? What good could you possibly see coming out of poisoning one of King's men?" 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Lola's - IC</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Miss Lilly</strong> on <strong>12-03-2013, 08:07:42</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Get a hold of yourself, Abby! And sit down!"&nbsp; <br><br>Lola's raised voice, something that was rarely heard in the saloon, left no room for argument.&nbsp; The furious woman waited until Abby had taken a seat, using the time to try to get a handle on her anger.&nbsp; She was about ready to start throwing things, but knowing that would do no good to anyone, she took a few deep, calming breaths, and somehow managed to make her voice sound something approaching normal.<br><br>"Abby, calm down. I'm not angry at you. Or with you. I know I sent you up there last night, and don't think that's a decision I haven't bin grapplin' with ever since."&nbsp; Lola's cheeks were flushed with the anger that still pulsed through her, and she knew that she sounded harsher than she intended.&nbsp; She smiled in what she hoped was a reassuring way. "The fact of the matter is that we haven't had a chance to talk about it yet.&nbsp; Which, given this mornin's turn of events, may have been a mistake.&nbsp; I should have come found you last night, but with what happened with Bill, and Jackson and the Sheriff...well, it just completely slipped my mind.<br><br>"As for you, missy."&nbsp; Lola's heated gaze turned to Evelyn.&nbsp; The blonde's guilt was written all over her face, albeit defiantly. "What in the name of all that is holy did you think you were doin'? What made you think that poisonin' the new Sheriff would do anybody any good?&nbsp; Even if you'd succeeded, King would have just replaced him with someone else!&nbsp; All you've managed to do is poke the hornet's nest with a stick!&nbsp; And now we're all gonna be runnin' for cover to avoid gettin' stung!"<br><br>Lola's tirade helped her calm down a little, and her demeanor towards Eve softened slightly.<br><br>"Honey, seriously.&nbsp; I know you had the best of intentions, and you're just looking out for <em>Lola's</em>....but really. What were you thinking? And more importantly, what are we going to do about King?"<br><br>The last question was directed at both girls.&nbsp; Lola knew that defeating King was going to have to be a team effort.&nbsp; She'd feel better if Jackson were here, but in his absence, the girls would just have to pull together.&nbsp; Like they always did.<br><br>Lola was a survivor, as were all of her girls.&nbsp; They'd built something good here at <em>Lola's</em>, and hell would freeze over before they let that go.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Lola's - IC</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Loves</strong> on <strong>13-03-2013, 20:19:25</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Eve was more than happy to have an excuse to leave the happy sight of Pearl and her precious children. The blonde did not enjoy children, or at least that was what she told herself. Evie had always been careful not to allow herself to get to attached to anyone, bar Lola and secretly Jackson. The rest of the saloon’s family could come and go as they pleased as long as they did not upset her life while doing it. The children were just another thorn in her side that pricked at all the bitterness she held inside. One more thing to remind her of the life she had meant to have. The life that had been in her grasp before everything went to hell in a hand basket. <br><br>Now sitting comfortably in one of the chairs opposite Lola’s desk Eve adopted her best innocent expression. There was no proof that she had done a single thing wrong and she wasn’t about to admit to the poisoning, not in front of Abby. As far as Eve was concerned the girl couldn’t be trusted. <strong>”Who said he was poisoned? There you go jumping to conclusions. For all we know the food just didn’t settle in his stomach. Maybe it was guilt.”</strong> Eve's gaze fell upon the redhead, and lips formed a ghost of a smile as she added in a tone that hinted with amusement. <strong>”Guilt is a terrible thing Abby. It can cut you up inside…”</strong> cocking her head to one side Evie gave a great impression of compassion as she continued chatting. <strong>”How are you feeling sweetie? A little light headed? Queasy maybe? It must have been witnessing the man being ill. Having to sit so close to it. Poor thing.”</strong><br><br>Eve would have laughed had it not been for Lola. Her brown eyes shifted towards her employer. Her stance bristled at her friend’s accusation, seeing it as an alliance with Abby. <strong>”It seems I’ve been tried and sentenced”</strong> grumbled Evie as she crossed&nbsp; her arms against&nbsp; her ample bosom. <strong>”He wasn’t poisoned, nothing that could harm him much more than a poorly stomach. I didn’t shoot a man in cold blood and hang another out to dry. Besides, it was an accident!”</strong> Eve’s lips twitched as she described the argument over the Red Squill and how it had slipped from her hand when Lola poked her head into the kitchen to bark her new orders.&nbsp; Eve looked to her friend and silently pleaded with the woman to understand. <strong>”I thought it had all fallen on the floor and a bit on the table. I didn’t know it had found its home on one of the plates. Honest.”</strong><br><br>She waited a moment before offering a suggestion, one that she hoped Lola would take under consideration. <strong>”Someone has to play his game Lola. Get close to him, feed him information, or at least let it seem like she is. Smoke and mirrors Lola. I can keep him distracted so you can find where the hell Jackson went.”</strong> Her brown eyes watched her friend carefully looking for any doubt that might appear in her expression. <br><br>They had been friends for a long time. There was a level of trust between them that stood stronger than the mountains, at least there was on Eve's side. It was that trust that had Eve admitting to the Red Squill. She had never given Lola a reason to question her loyalty. Sure she had kept the information of her nest egg from her employer, but Eve didn’t think it was anyone’s business but her own. One day she would be too old to attract a cowboy and when that day came she had to be able to look after herself. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Lola's - IC</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Breathless Intent</strong> on <strong>08-04-2013, 07:35:27</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Lola's snapped command had its desired effect, causing Abby's mouth to snap shut and her body to sink into the nearest chair. She had never seen Lola as worked up as she was that morning. Sure, she'd seen her chew out girls who were skimming off the top or others that were being a bit too blatant about entertaining anyone with a coin to spare, but even then Lola had always maintained an air of control and reserve. Now, however, her nerves were truly starting to show...and that mere fact had Abby biting her tongue and wishing to high heaven that she had disappeared with Jackson the night before. <br><br>Lola's attempt at reassurance made little impact on the frazzled redhead. The fact that she had been "grapplin' with" her decision to throw Abby in King's way and then managed to forget to seek her out just proved Abby's point - Lola didn't give a damn about her or anybody else, so long as she got her way. She was no better than King. Years of smiling in the face of drunken fools and charming foul smelling men day in and day out had taught Abby a thing or two about concealing her emotions. So, while she was inwardly sneering at her employer, Abby merely shrugged a shoulder and nodded meekly. She wouldn't give Lola any reason to doubt her loyalty at this point. Besides, perhaps she could get something useful to take back to King. He may be a scheming, power hungry, son-of-a-bitch, but at least he didn't try to sugar coat it with false concern the way Lola did. And hadn't he promised her a better life? Perhaps she should take him up on that promise after all. <br><br>Abby's train of thought was interrupted by Eve's taunts and poorly veiled threats. Frowning slightly, she narrowed her eyes at the woman and considered how quickly she could launch across the room and start snatching handfuls of blonde hair from her head. But Lola interceded before Abby could respond, and the look on Eve's face was priceless. Grinning triumphantly, she watched with unabashed amusement while Lola tore into Eve and the woman tried to talk her way out of the mess she had clearly made. However she painted it, the fool had just thrown fuel on the fire and <em>Lola's</em> would end up having to pay.<br><br>Eve's suggestion about spying on King almost made Abby laugh. As if that man would trust anything out of Eve's mouth. It was widely known that Eve and Lola had arrived in Silver City together and that they were thick as thieves. At least...it was among the girls that worked there. Perhaps King didn't actually know...yet. Abby may just have some useful information to share with Silver City's premiere citizen after all. With that thought in mind, she nodded in agreement with Eve's suggestion. "She may be on to something there, Lola. Last night, King asking me about you and the saloon. I tried to get him to talk about himself more though. That was when he told me about owning the land under the saloon and that he was trying to work out some kind of deal with you. I didn't fully understand...I still don't actually. But the point is, he was snooping. If Eve can get close with him, I think he'd have his ears wide open to anything she has to say." <em>And I'll be right in his other ear telling him to ignore every rotten word out of her mouth.</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Lola's - IC</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Miss Lilly</strong> on <strong>03-06-2013, 04:41:55</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The fact that there was no love lost between Eve and Abby was no secret, but Lola was surprised by how deep the mutual dislike seemed to run.&nbsp; Watching the two women snipe at each other would have been concerning at any time, but now...when they needed to present a united front...?&nbsp; It was damn alarming! But Lola wasn't naive enough to think that their relationship would mend itself just because they had a mutual enemy.&nbsp; The attempts from both women to throw the other to the town wolf made that abundantly clear.&nbsp; And knowing both of them as she did, Lola knew without a shadow of a doubt that&nbsp; if either of them had the chance, that's exactly what they'd do. <em>Lola's</em> be damned.<br><br>"That's enough,"&nbsp; Lola snapped.&nbsp; "From both of you," she continued, not giving either one a chance to get another word in. The warning in her voice was obvious.&nbsp; She looked at Eve hard, the older woman's dark eyes boring into the younger blue ones unwaveringly.&nbsp; "I will accept your explanation of what happened, Evelyn. However, should anything like that ever happen again, I won't be so forgiving. Comprende?"&nbsp; <br><br>Lola didn't wait for Eve to acknowledge her words.&nbsp; She knew the warning would hit home with her protege, and she was confident that the smart, sassy woman wouldn't be so stupid in the future.<br><br>"As for Jackson, I have an idea where he may have gone, but I have no way of knowing for sure. What I do know, however, is that he would never abandon us. He will be back. We just have to hang in there until he returns."&nbsp; Lola's chin lifted defiantly as she spoke; her belief in Jackson unshakable.&nbsp; He had never not been there when she needed him, just like she had always, and would always, be there for him.&nbsp; Their bond ran deeper than anyone at <em>Lola's</em> knew, save for Eve, and the only thing that would stop him coming to her rescue was his death.&nbsp; And Lola knew in her heart that that had yet to happen.<br><br>Lola quieted for a moment, chewing over her next decision.&nbsp; She knew what she was about to ask was more than she had a right to. But at this point, she really didn't have a choice.&nbsp; &nbsp;Eve was right.&nbsp; They needed to have someone get close to King.&nbsp; Not only to try to feed him misinformation, but to try to find out the real motivations behind his hostile take over of the saloon.&nbsp; But which woman to ask to do that?&nbsp; Lola was torn. It was like choosing one of her children to sacrifice that the others may live.&nbsp; Her eyes dropped, resting on her clasped hands, the knuckles white from the tense grip they maintained on each other.&nbsp; Lola knew what she had to do.&nbsp; She just hoped she would be forgiven for doing it.<br><br>"You're right, Evie.&nbsp; We do need to have someone ingratiate themselves to King.&nbsp; It would be a great tactical advantage.&nbsp; But that person can't be you."&nbsp; Lola's gaze moved slowly to Abby.&nbsp; "Abby, sweetie, I know I have no right to ask you to do this. And I'll understand if you say no." Lola's voice almost pleaded for forgiveness.&nbsp; "King would have to be a blind fool not to know that Evie is closer to me than anyone.&nbsp; The whole town knows we came to Silver City together.&nbsp; And he'd never believe she'd be a turncoat."&nbsp; Lola hated that she seemed to be implying that somehow Abby appeared less trustworthy.&nbsp; "Which means she can't get as close to him as we need.&nbsp; And he's obviously already taken a shine to you."&nbsp; Lola paused, the moment heavy with expectation. She took a deep breath and ploughed on.&nbsp; "Abby, would you be willing to spy on him?&nbsp; I'm not asking just for me, but for all of us.&nbsp; For all of them out there."&nbsp; She waved her hand towards the main part of the saloon, where the other girls would still be cleaning up the mess that Evie had caused.&nbsp; "I'm asking for Pearl, and for the children, and for the whole of the city.&nbsp; We can't let King just walk in and take over everything. We all know he's not planning on stopping with <em>Lola's</em>.&nbsp; Look at what he's done at the Sheriff's Office. The man is a snake.&nbsp; And we may be the only ones who can stop him."<br><br>Lola paused again, her bosom heaving with the emotion that coursed through her when she thought about what King would do to the town she loved.<br><br>"Will you help me stop him, Abby?"
			</dd>
		</dl>
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