I wouldn't say no to the bath.

"I wouldn't say no to the bath part and see where things go from there." I smiled, my interest piqued by Mei Ling's suggestion. I didn't really see the point of a fresh shave since I only had stubble and would be heading out on the trail soon.

"Very well." Mei Ling smiled and sat down behind me, lathering up her hands with soap. She began to rub my neck, applying gentle pressure with her fingertips firmly against my skin, kneading it ever so slowly. A sense of relaxation washed over me as her skilled hands worked their magic.

"God, that feels good." I couldn't help but let out a contented moan as her hands washed my neck and massaged it simultaneously. Her movements became more and more sensual with each passing second, and I found myself becoming increasingly captivated by her touch.

"I know much about the human body. Many men come to see me for massages," Mei Ling explained in her sultry foreign accent, her words weaving a seductive spell around us.

"Where did you pick that up?" I asked, curiosity mingling with the pleasure coursing through me, as I rolled my neck to further enjoy her skilled touch. The world outside the room seemed to fade away as I surrendered to the moment.

"My mother studied ancient Chinese medicine when we lived in San Francisco," she shared, moving her attention to my shoulders and skillfully applying pressure to relieve the tension there as her fingers traced circles on my back. Her expert hands sent shivers of pleasure up my spine.

"What brought you here?" I inquired, wondering what prompted her to make the journey from the West to the East. It seemed to me that the real opportunities lay out west.

"My father got a job with the railroad. When he passed away, it was just me and my mother," Mei Ling explained as her hands continued their soothing motion on my shoulders. "I heard that you're joining us on the trail."

"You're coming with us too?" I asked, a mixture of surprise and delight coloring my tone.

"Yes, I want to return to San Francisco and find the rest of my family there," Mei Ling revealed, her voice tinged with a sense of longing and hope for the future then her hands moved down to my back. "You are very strong man." Mei Ling murmured, her breath warm against my ear as her hands continued their sensuous exploration of my body. As Mei Ling's hands ventured lower, exploring the contours of my back with increasing intimacy, a surge of desire coursed through my veins. The room seemed to grow warmer, the air thick with anticipation. Her touch awakened a primal longing within me, and I yearned to feel her hands explore every inch of my body.

"Hard work I suppose." I shrugged and let out a content sigh.

"What work before this?" She slid her hands back up over my shoulders and then down my chest and continued her skilled ministrations, her hands tracing a path along my chest and abdomen, igniting a fire within me. Every touch, every caress, sent waves of pleasure rippling through my body. I found myself completely lost in the intoxicating sensations, surrendering to the passionate dance orchestrated by Mei Ling's expert hands.

"Breaking horses in Kentucky, before that herding cattle in Louisiana." I moaned and laid my head back against her petite bosom. I had done just about every job one could think of and then some that involved being on horseback.

"You have a strong, captivating presence," Mei Ling whispered, her voice filled with desire. Her hands sliding down toward my crotch but I stopped her hand.

"So did Miss Kitty send you to please me or size me up before the trip." I smiled back at her. I was sure the woman had gotten many a secret from many a man before me by getting them to let down their guard.

"A bit of both. A thank you and see if you are easily tempted by pleasures of the flesh. You will protect us girls on trail so." She said coyly in my ear with a soft whisper as her cheek brushed mine. Her fingers tracing softly over my chest.

"Not easily but you make it hard to say no." I smiled back at her.

Her words sent a surge of desire coursing through my veins, but I maintained my composure, meeting her gaze with a playful expression. "Not easily tempted, but you make it quite challenging to say no."

"So we no have sex now?" She murmured, her voice laced with a seductive tone that made my heart race.

"Not now," I replied, my voice filled with a mixture of desire and restraint. "But you can share whatever you like with Miss Kitty. As for me, I think I'll take that shave now." I offered her a warm smile, appreciating her trust and acknowledging the unspoken bond we were forming. "If you're willing to entrust me with your life on the trail, I suppose I can place mine in your capable hands." I laid back and let Mei shave me. She was as good with a razor as she was with her hands and gave me one of the best shaves I had ever had.

After my bath I went back out into the Saloon as the place seemed to have filled up as the sun fell. The place was boisterous as the crowd drank and talked. The fallen doves worked the room as they mingled among the gentlemen. The piano played a lively tune.

I saw Miss. Kitty having a drink with the plump man who was buying the place as they seemed to be toasting the closing of a successful deal. A saloon girl sitting on either side of him. probably ones who were staying and wanted to get on the new owner's good side. She gave me a little wink as she caught my eye.

I saw Cassidy surrounded by a group of cowboys as they sat at a table playing poker. She held the cards close to her face as if trying to hide her smile and looked at the other fellows over the top of them. The little hellcat didn't have much of a poker face. Cassidy gave one of the cowboys a little push and tossed her chips in with playful delight. The dealer caught my eye as she dealt the cards with flair. A pretty dark-haired girl wearing a stylish black cowboy hat.

I moved to the bar where I saw the bartender had been joined by another girl with fiery ginger locks who was putting drinks onto a tray for Abigail. Another woman with brunette hair sat with her back to the bar who was definitely a fallen dove as she wore a feather boa around her and twirled it from her arms as she scanned the room looking for her next mark.

“Hey Flint. Have a nice bath?” Abigail smiled and blushed as she walked past me carrying the drinks to a table.

“Very.” I nodded as she passed.

“So must be Flint.” The barmaid smiled and offered her hand. “I am Fiona and this Belle.” She nodded with a warm smile and then looked to the whore. I smiled as I looked at the ladies.

Fiona extended her hand towards me, her touch firm yet inviting. She had fiery ginger locks that tumbled in loose waves, framing her face with a playful vibrancy. Her emerald-green eyes sparkled with mischief, their gaze framed by long, fluttering lashes. She wore a fitted blouse with billowy sleeves, adorned with delicate lace trim that added a touch of femininity to her attire. Her skirt, in a rich shade of deep green, hugged her curves and flowed gracefully to her ankles. Fiona's confident stance and infectious smile were complemented by a necklace of intricate Celtic design that graced her neck, adding an air of cultural pride to her ensemble. There was a sense of confidence in her stance and the way she carried herself behind the war.

Standing beside Fiona was Belle, a vision of elegance and grace. Her lustrous chestnut hair cascaded down her back in gentle waves, reflecting the warm glow of the saloon's lights. Her hazel eyes held a captivating depth, their gaze both captivating and enigmatic. Belle wore a form-fitting dress that accentuated her slender figure, its deep burgundy hue adding a touch of sophistication. The dress was adorned with delicate lace details, accentuating her refined style. She completed her look with a feather boa draped effortlessly around her shoulders, a fashionable accessory that enhanced her allure and added a hint of glamour to her ensemble. She brought a touch of glamour to the saloon, captivating those around her with every subtle gesture.

“Ladies.” I said taking each hand as they offered them and gave them a little kiss.

“So what can I get you cowboy?” Fiona said as she put her hands on the bar and leaned forward.

“Whiskey.” I shrugged and reached for some coin.

“Honey, your money's no good here. Consider it a parting gift from the saloon.” Fiona shook her head.

Belle, standing beside Fiona, chimed in, her voice sweet and melodious. “That's right, darlin'. It's our way of saying goodbye to this place and the folks win it.”

I leaned back against the bar, a satisfied smile spreading across my face. “Well, in that case, I'll take a double shot.”

“Besides we are going out of business so I am sure Miss Kitty won't mind.”

“More like taking the business on the road. I am sure Butch will pack up as much as he can in the wagon.” Belle teased as she glanced over at the bartender in the bowler hat and mutton chops.

Fiona reached for a bottle of whiskey. She poured a generous amount into a glass and slid it toward me, her eyes sparkling with a playful glimmer. "Bottoms up partner," she said, a hint of mischief in her voice.

Belle chuckled, her voice melodic and enchanting. "It's a shame to see this place closing down," she commented, her gaze drifting to the bustling saloon around us.

“We can always build another where ever we end up.” Fiona said as she wiped down the bar.

“You ladies coming with us on the wagon train?” I asked taking a shot of whiskey.

“That is the plan. Doves are a dime a dozen here in Saint Louis these days.” Belle said with a shrug as she glanced about the place.

"So did you enjoy your bath monsuir?" Juliette said as she came over and touched my freshly shaved face. Mei was standing behind her as she gave me a sly smile.

"It was very refreshing." I smiled not wanting to give away what I knew.

"Mei generally has that effect on men." Fiona teased and poured me another shot as she coyly wetted her lips.

"Belle. be a dear and go talk to the cowboys at the poker table. They are Sam's men and will be escorting us so play nice." Madame Juliette pointed with her finger at the men with Cassidy.

"Madame. I will be so nice they will be fighting to marry me by the time we reach our destination." Belle said as she took Mei's arm in hers and they went to greet the cowboys. As Belle and Mei approached the poker table where Cassidy was engaged in a lively game, the cowboys turned their attention towards them. Belle flashed them a flirtatious smile, her eyes sparkling with mischief while Mei played the coy girl though I knew it was an act. The cowboys seemed captivated by Belle and Mei, and Flint had a feeling that their presence would bring an added layer of excitement and intrigue to their travels.

“How do you like that.” I heard a boisterous yell and looked over to see Cassidy raking in a pile of chips as she leaned over the poker table showing off her cleavage in her shirt. She was clearly cleaning the other cowboys out and would continue to do so with them being distracted as they were. I couldn't help but smile as I looked at the redhead. I felt pulled by her tenacious personality and rough tomboyish beauty.

“Careful don't let Sam catch you looking at his daughter cowboy,” Fiona said as she poured me another drink.

“Who is Sam?” I asked.

“That would be me.” A gruff skinny man with a ten-gallon hat and gray mustache said as he came over. "This your hired gun," Sam said as he took off his hat and sat at the bar and tapped his finger on the counter for Fiona to pour him a drink. The fact that he hadn't bothered to say what he wanted told me he had been in here enough that she already knew. I saw her reach under the counter and pull out a bottle of Tequila

"Oui Monsuir Sam. This is Flint." Madame Juliette said rubbing my chest.

"Sir." I offered my hand but he just sort of ignored me and took his shot in hand.

"I have two rules on the trail kid. First and foremost you do what I say when I say if you want to stay alive. I have been from coast to coast and have seen more than my fair share of both the beauty and the terror of the frontier while you were still suckling on your mother's teat so until you die on the trail I am god as far as you are concerned. " The gruff old timer downed the shot as if he was drinking water.

"And rule number two," I smirked. i had a feeling he was not an easy man to like let alone impress.

"If you can't follow rule number one I will shoot you myself." He said finally giving a sly smile but more to himself than me.

I observed Sam closely, taking in his weathered face and stern demeanor. It was evident that he was a man who had seen his fair share of hardships on the frontier. I respected his authority and the wisdom that came with his experiences. With a nod, I acknowledged his rules, understanding that obedience and trust were crucial for survival on the trail.

"Understood, Sam," I replied, my tone sincere. "I have no intentions of causing any trouble. I'm here to do my part and ensure the safety of everyone on this journey."

Sam grunted approvingly, his eyes scanning the saloon as if searching for any signs of potential conflict. "Good to hear, kid. We'll be heading out at first light tomorrow. Make sure you're prepared and ready to ride. We won't be wasting any time."

I nodded in agreement, fully aware of the importance of being prepared for the journey ahead. "You can count on me, Sam. I'll be ready to ride come noon."

Sam's gaze shifted towards Cassidy, who was still commanding the poker table with her confidence and wit. "And keep your eyes off that one," he warned, his voice laced with a hint of protectiveness.

I couldn't help but grin at his remark, appreciating his concern. "I'll do my best, Sam."

With a satisfied nod, Sam downed another shot of tequila, his demeanor softening slightly. "Good. We've got a long road ahead of us, and I need everyone focused. This ain't no leisurely ride in the park. You make it to Independence then we will see."

With Sam's warning echoing in my mind, I glanced over at Cassidy, who was still engrossed in her poker game, unaware of her father's cautionary words.

I decided to give Sam his space and left him to his drink, not wanting to intrude on his thoughts. After all, we were still strangers to each other, and trust had yet to be earned. I walked away from the bar and found a quiet corner at the end of the bar where I could observe the others without drawing too much attention.

The realization that we would soon be venturing into the unknown wilderness weighed heavily on my mind. Cassidy finally finished her poker game, scooping up her winnings with a satisfied smile. As she made her way towards the bar, I caught her eye and offered a mischievous smile as she joined her father. I was stunned when Belle began to sing a beautiful tune that brought the room to a whisper. The girl had one hell of a voice on her.

"Here you go Lad," Fiona said as she came over with a key. "Lucky number seven, top of the stairs and end of the hall whenever you get ready." She motioned with her finger.

"Thanks."

"Don't let Sam get under your skin. He is really a big softy deep down."

"Real deep. Can I ask? Are you from Ireland?"

"Different Island. New York City Laddy. My folks were immigrants but I was born American. Mom says she almost had me on Elise Island."

"Ah, New York City," I responded, nodding. "Must have been quite the experience growing up there. How did you end up here in Saint Louis?"

Fiona leaned against the bar, a sad look in her eyes. "Well, lad, life wasn't easy back in New York. My family lived in one of those crowded tenements and we struggled to make ends meet, and times were tough, especially during the riots so we got while the going was good."

"I can only imagine," I replied.

"We heard that Saint Louis had a thriving Irish population and better opportunities, so we packed our bags and headed west and been here ever since. I was looking for work and found this place and Butch sort of adopted me. She glanced over at the older man who was talking to Sam and Cassidy. Fiona nodded, a hint of pride in her voice.

"So why leave?" I smiled.

"I've been here for many years," Fiona replied, a touch of nostalgia in her voice. "But lately, things have been changing. The city has grown, and with it comes new challenges and struggles. Besides. I want to own my own place someday and I will never do that here."

"Can I get another drink darling, sometime this week?" A patron called her.

Fiona chuckled and shook her head, a playful glint in her eyes. "Coming right up, Shamus. Hold your horses," she replied, before giving me a little wink. She then headed over to pour Shamus his drink. the place began to wind down as patrons began to leave or head up for the night so I decided to call it a night myself and get some sleep and ran into the card dealer literally as I got up and accidentally collided with her bosom as I got a handful of tit.

"Sorry Ma'am. I said as I moved my hand.

"Well, you definitely know how to make a first impression. Most men at least introduce themselves before they get so friendly darlin'." She said with a playful wink.

I felt a flush of embarrassment creeping up my neck. "I apologize for that Ma'am." I tipped my hat.

Her lips curled into a sly smile as she assessed me for a moment. "No harm done, cowboy. Consider it a memorable encounter. Now, why don't you introduce yourself properly sugar?"

I took a step back, composing myself, and extended my hand towards her. "I'm Flint, ma'am. A pleasure to make your acquaintance."

She accepted my handshake, her grip firm and confidence. "Maeve," her voice carrying a hint of mystery. "Well, Flint, it's a pleasure to meet you too. Now, if you'll excuse me, this lady needs a drink."

As I made my way towards the stairs, I couldn't help but feel a sense of intrigue about the lively woman I had just encountered. The night was filled with unexpected encounters, each one bringing me closer to the enigmatic journey that awaited me. With thoughts swirling in my mind, I ascended the stairs, ready to rest and prepare for the adventures that lay ahead. I blew out the lantern and climbed into bed thinking about what I had gotten myself into knowing sleep would not find me easily as I was filled with anticipation. Suddenly a knock came at the door.

"Enter." I sat up on my arms. A second later Abigail entered the room, her presence casting a soft glow in the dimly lit space. Her dusky caramel skin was illuminated by the lantern she held in her hand. her simple waitress dress flowed about as she walked over.

"Hey, I came to see if you needed anything?" Abigail said meekly as she came over and sat on the edge of the bed.

"No, sleep might be hard though." I shrugged.

"Maybe I can send up one of the girls to keep you company and keep you warm?" She pursed her lips as she gave a bashful smile.