Chapter 1: Chapter One

"Tonight is going to be amazing,” Dolly Morgan proclaimed excitedly, brushing out her hair. “I hope Kenneth comes to the party tonight. He treats me like a proper lady.”

“Dolly, you have only seen him three times. He is just another man with needs. That's all. Don't give your heart away too soon.”

“Why are you so negative all the time, Elaine? Honestly, anyone would think you wanted to stay single forever.”

Elaine Bower sighed, glancing up at her friend's face in the vanity mirror. “I have been in this trade for ten years, nine more than you. Trust me, I've seen everything. Julia may have educated us in refined ways but we are still whores. My dear, a decent man will never see us as anything else. We are meant for sex, not marriage.”

Tears glistened in Dolly's eyes. “Kenneth loves me. I know he does! He's different, Elaine.”

“I know you think he loves you but...”

“He does, he does! I won't listen to this insanity any longer.”

“I don't wish to be cruel or hurtful.” Elaine turned around on the stool. “I want the best for you.”

“Then keep your opinions to yourself. Maybe Kenneth isn't the one but I'll find a good man who loves me. I have nothing to lose by hoping.” Dolly leaned down and kissed her forehead. “We aren't only whores, my darling friend. We are survivors doing what is necessary for life. We deserve the same chance as anyone else to find love and happiness. I will never believe otherwise.”

The pretty blonde grabbed an oriental fan, checked her up-do and swished from the room. The merry group partied away downstairs, enjoying drink and erotic company. Elaine sat before the mirror. Tired. Empty. Hopeless.

Ten years of meeting men's needs had taken its toll.

Her young face, though attractive, possessed wrinkles from sadness. Her brown eyes, once filled with hope and life, stared back with chilling emptiness. She had no soul, no future and no prospects. What had she to hope for? Men only saw her slim, enticing body while women shunned her companionship as being of ill-repute. She craved to achieve Dolly's optimism but didn't know where to start.

For a long time, she had protected her heart from the pain. Loneliness had snuck between the iron bars. The key had since been thrown away. She could see the metal gleaming on the floor outside her cell. No matter how her mind stretched or strained, she couldn't reach freedom.

With a sigh, she tucked an amber curl behind her left ear. The night was young and her presence was required at the client party. Quickly, she dressed in a low-cut green gown and chose a pink shawl. A necklace, laden with pseudo jewels, was fastened around her slender neck. White evening gloves completed her ensemble.

Once preparations were complete, she stepped outside the room. Muffled groans and gasps drifted from each room as she passed down the hall. Julia's Palace was already running a brisk business and her part must be played. The party grew louder as she reached the stairs.

Taking a deep breath, she stiffened her carriage and began an elegant descent.

Men of all ages milled around below, looking for a good time. Elaine's coworkers draped themselves over the clients. The coiffured women wore heavy paint and sported revealing necklines to advertise their wares. A few nervous young bucks were cleverly seduced before being led upstairs. The older men mingled with leisure, picking their sexual partners.

Wine flowed freely, provided by the house.

In the midst of this scene was Julia Bulette, a respected presence who ruled her domain with a firm hand. She demanded the finest character from the men who frequented her establishment. Fierce as a mama bear, she protected her girls and personally paired each one with a decent, pleasant gentleman. Rowdy drunkenness was not tolerated. When angered, she was a lioness, wielding a one-shot derringer pistol. The small red purse dangled from her wrist, an innocent warning.

When Elaine reached the parlor, she lingered in the doorway. All eyes turned toward her, most were lustful while the rest were jealous. With a knowing smile, Julia approached with a gray-haired gentleman. He was dressed in a frock coat, gold vest and looked nice enough.

“Good evening, Elaine dear,” Julia smiled, pecking a kiss upon the younger woman's cheek. “Do you know Mr. Lee Harrison? He is one of the lucky ones to strike gold. He is going back East to start a new life with his earnings.”

Elaine turned to the man. “I do not believe I've had the pleasure, Mr. Harrison.”

“The pleasure is all mine.” He took her hand and softly kissed its her knuckles. “Miss Elaine, I have heard tales of your beauty and sharp wit.”

“These rumors are false for sure. I am merely a decorative object to be traded among the wealthy. Presumably, I do not possess intelligence.”

Harrison chuckled, his eyes twinkling. “You have answered my question to the fullest.”

“Indeed, she is an amazing talent.” Julia smiled. “Elaine is incredibly accomplished and educated in the arts. Did you know that she can speak three different languages?”

“I am impressed. Which tongues do you speak?”

“French and Italian, sir.”

“That is only two.”

“English is my native language.”

He smiled, regarding her intently. “Of course. I can see that this evening will be both stimulating and entertaining.”

Julia chose that moment to excuse herself. “Well, if you two will forgive me, I must attend to my other guests. Enjoy your night.”

Left alone with her companion, Elaine knew that her friend had chosen well for the night. This man would be gentle in his desires, treat her right and pay well. His face was distinguished and quite handsome for his age. All were desirable traits for an experienced prostitute who had earned the first pick. His money would pad her savings and help purchase land for a farm.

Harrison offered his elbow. “My lady, can I interest you in a late dinner? My carriage is waiting out front.”

Surprised by the tame request, she nodded, accepting his arm. The couple walked outside. Crisp and cool, the night air was bracing. A faint breeze caressed her face as he helped her into the carriage. When he climbed in afterward, she expected caresses and groping kisses. On the contrary, he sat opposite her and made no advances.

Content in his easy company, she rested into the plush red cushions. Not often was she taken for an elegant dinner. Virginia City, Nevada sparkled with light and night life. What did this unusual man have in store for her?

During dinner at the Gold Hill Hotel, Mr. Lee Harrison proved an intelligent companion. He had a wide range of knowledge on many topics which surpassed her own. She enjoyed listening and asked questions in return. The food proved delicious and he ordered champagne to please her.

Their conversation eventually turned from his adventures to what the future might hold. The doctors had diagnosed a condition of the heart which would prove fatal in six months to a year. He was traveling back East to spend his fortune and die in comfort. His plans caused a curious, hopeful thought to pop into her mind.

“Mr. Harrison, I have a question to ask.”

“Call me Lee, please. We can't afford to stand on ceremony.”

“Lee...you have lived up in the mountains. From your experience, would there be a possibility for a woman to live alone up there?”

Setting his champagne flute down, he sat back and looked thoughtful. “Indians aren't plentiful high up but predators are sure enough. Wolves, cougars and the like. But as long as you have a shotgun handy and know how to use it, they shouldn't bother your animals much.”

“I was thinking about a horse, milk cow and maybe a few chickens. Would those do well in the thin air?”

“Yup, those will do nicely. Keep them locked up at night and they'll be safe enough.” He leaned forward and took her hand. “Miss Elaine...if you are in the market for a farm, I have one that might interest you.”

“Perhaps I would be interested if the price was right.”

“This little place won't cost much. There's a large cabin, some pastureland and a barn. The land is overgrown and neglected by now but you're welcome to it. Since coming into money, I have no need for the property any longer.”

Elaine's heartbeat roared in her ears. “Are you really serious?”

“Dead serious. I will give you the farm.”

“Oh, no, no. I have to pay you something.”

“I don't require further payment, my dear.” He smiled. “A kind, elegant lady living there will make me happy. Perhaps you could write me a letter one day on how the farm is progressing.”

“Of course, I would but surely you need more compensation than a warm feeling inside.”

“Miss Bower, let me tell you a depressing story. I bought that piece of land nigh on thirty years ago when I was twenty-seven. I wanted to find a wife and start a family out here. Then an injury claimed my ability to provide children. I was unfit to marry. So I left the farm and took up golddigging which worked out, thank God. I still enjoy the company of a beautiful woman but can't offer her anything more than a posh dinner and expensive gifts.”

“You mean, you can't...”

“No, I can't,” he mumbled, clearing his throat. “I didn't ask you out to dinner for that reason. I needed an intelligent woman to listen to me tonight. It being my last evening out West and all.”

“You are a special man, Lee. I am unworthy of your respect. We both know what I am, after all.”

He snorted, waving off her remarks. “Nonsense. Life dealt you a bad hand. I am sure you didn't choose this occupation.”

“How did you make that assumption?” she asked, taking a sip of fizzy champagne.

“You hold yourself differently than other women. There is a strength in your eyes, in your manner. The way you enter a room is something to behold. Have you realized that?”

“No, I haven't but thank you.” She took his hand and squeezed. “This evening has been delightful.”

“I've enjoyed our talk as well. Now, I'll jot down the directions to your new farm. Tomorrow morning before the stagecoach leaves, I'll transfer the land's title to your name.”

With a shaking hand, she took the paper and read over its contents. “There is still the matter of payment. I have some savings put aside...”

“I won't hear of such a thing. Use that money for repairing the farm. You'll need those funds very much, I'm afraid.”

Unable to help herself, Elaine leaned over and threw her arms around his neck. Diners looked on in amazement.

“This means the world to me, Lee. I...I don't know how to thank you.”

“Mmm...a kiss will do nicely later.” He chuckled, eyes twinkling. “In all seriousness, take care of the farm and enjoy your new life. That's thanks enough.”

“Actually, I have encountered many men over the years who had problems performing in the usual way. I have learned techniques which can still create intense arousal for such a man.”

Once dinner had concluded, the couple drove back to Julia's Palace. Elaine led her nervous lover up to her room and undressed for him. His lustfilled eyes traveled over her voluptuous body posed before him.

During the next hour, she strove to give him pleasure without asking for any in return. He cried out at last and fell back on the bed, panting and happy. Once he had put his clothes back on, he withdrew a leather pouch from his suit jacket pocket. Gold dust glittered inside.

Slipping on a blue silk robe, Elaine shook her head. “No, you don't have to pay me. Dinner tonight was a rare treat for me. Not many men have ever treated me like a lady.”

“I want you to have this memento from me,” he whispered, closing her hand around the bag. “Promise that you'll find someone to care for you.”

“I've never had anyone to care for me. Except Julia, of course.”

“Then take this gold and find happiness.”

Tears blurring her vision, she kissed his cheek. “Good luck, Lee Harrison. You'll be in my thoughts and prayers.”

“The same to you. Goodbye, my dear.”

Her heart racing with excitement, Elaine closed the door behind him. The party was winding down and most couples were engaged sexually in the luxurious bedrooms. Crossing the room, she dug out a tin box from behind the dresser. Now, these tainted savings could be spent on furnishings and animals.

Joyful tears stung her eyes as she stretched out on the bed.

Never again would she be forced to attend a man's needs. Unless a man would offer true love, her body would be hers alone. Those days were over in the blink of an eye. How could a dismal night end with indescribable joy?

The Lord worked in mysterious ways, even loving a soiled dove like her.

A knock on the door echoed through her heart. The latch clicked shut and footsteps walked up behind her. Dolly came into view as she sat on the bed. A comforting hand settled on Elaine's shoulder.

“What is troubling you, my dear friend? Please tell me so I can help.”

“Something wonderful has happened, I can't believe it. I must be dreaming.”

Loud gasps and thumping against the nearest wall interrupted their conversation. Coming back to reality, both girls burst into giggles. The brothel was real as could possibly be imagined.

Then Elaine explained what had happened and her friend was astonished.

“This is a miracle,” Dolly exclaimed, “I won't have to worry about your happiness now.”

“What do you mean?”

“Despite your earlier concerns, Kenneth proposed to me tonight! We are to be married without delay. At this moment, he is arranging to move me into a hotel this very night.”

“What a day for blessings! Good grief, Dolly, can this be true? ”

“It certainly will be, dear sister. Kenneth and I will be married in three days and I want you to stand with me.”

“Oh, I would love to stand for you but my funds are limited where a hotel is concerned. I certainly can't stay here at Julia's expense.”

“Kenneth is quite wealthy and has already volunteered rooms for each of us. His family owns the hotel!”

Elaine smiled. “I take back every negative thing I said about him earlier. He sounds wonderful and generous with his love.”

“He is generous in every way. Elaine, I am going to be so happy now. I hope you will be too.”

“Happiness is overrated. I merely want to live free and clear. Out in the open air.”

“I hope your dreams come true.”

“And yours as well. I think we are both in for a terrific adventure.”

“Jolly good fun, I should think! Pack your things quickly. Kenneth is sending a carriage 'round for us in about an hour. Best get ready for the rest of your life.”

Giggling, Dolly bounced out of the room, closing the door behind her. Elaine lay for a long while. Brothel sounds filtered through the hallways. She groaned, pulling a pillow over her head. In a place of her own, silence would be normal and not just as cherished rarity. She wanted peace. God help her, she was going to find hers.