By Madison
The young express rider laid on his bunk exhausted from an excruciating run. He was in a peaceful slumber, unaware of the admiring eyes that rested upon him. Trail dust clung to his face and clothes, but didn't hinder his attractiveness. Jimmy was still as handsome as ever.
His gun belts with the Navy Colts cradled protectively in their strong leather, hung from the bed post. His coat, vest, and gloves had been carelessly deposited on the table, while his hat resided on the floor. By the way everything was scattered, Lou reasoned his ride was no cushy number. He hadn't even changed into the clean shirt hanging by his bunk.
He looked adorable to Lou. How she loved this rare opportunity to observe him! Since the rest of the express crew was congregating in town, they had absolute privacy.
Something always drew her to Jimmy. He was intriguing and passionate, yet gentle and sweet. At times, he was a difficult man to understand.
Sometimes Lou wondered what it was like being the famous Jimmy Hickok. His life was never dull. That's what made him so exciting. And to be his woman! How good it would feel to be wrapped in his arms! A comforting embrace for sure.
After letting a sigh escape, Lou left the table and swooped up his dusty black hat. Her hand wanted to put the item beside his coat and vest, but couldn't. The little kid in her said "wear it" just for fun. She had always fancied the game of dress up. After glancing at Jimmy to make sure he was still soundly sleeping, Louise submitted to her inner child.
Upon placing the hat on her head, Louise examined herself in the room's only mirror. It was a tiny thing, but allowed the crew a decent glimpse of their face. A smile crossed her lips as the woman gunfighter appeared in the tiny mirror. She gave her toughest, unwavering face that tested an opponent's courage. Then she giggled as the hat sunk down over her eyes, ending her show down.
"Oh!" she cried softly, throwing her hand over her mouth. Brushing the hat back in place, Louise cautiously tipped toed up to Jimmy's bunk, checking his status. Still dreaming, thankfully.
Before leaving the young man's side, Lou took the time to admire his rig. The Navy Colts rested peacefully in his gun belts, looking dangerously appealing. Not that she was one for guns. But Jimmy's matched pair gave him style in addition to the curse they brought with them. He was only free from the harnessed team during somnolent hours.
She traced the silver barrels lightly with her fingers. The gesture brought a scolding from inside. "Guns aren't toys, Louise!" the little voice said. "They're not to be played with!"
With a sigh, Lou resisted the temptation of sporting the weapons around her small waist. Instead, she reached for the midnight blue shirt patterned with small white diamonds. It was soft and smelled good too, thanks to Rachel's hard work.
The clothing enticed her, encouraging her to slip it on. Unable to contend the urge, Louise unbuttoned her shirt and let it fall to the floor. Then Jimmy's shirt was quickly placed over the camisole she started wearing after everyone discovered her secret. She only wore her long johns as a nightgown.
The dark fabric cradled her gently, falling just above her knees. The sleeves were a good three inches past the tips of her fingers. Being hugged by his shirt was a pleasurable feeling!
Lou paraded to the little mirror playing 'Jimmy' once more. As soon as she went for her 'tough as nails' stare, the hat pulled its naughty stunt again. This time Louise bit her lower lip to stifle her laughter. Slapping the hat up, Lou began twirling around the room playfully. She felt like a kid again.
Playing dress up was one of her fondest childhood memories. By wearing her mother's garments, Louise would transform into different characters. It wasn't until times grew chaotic, eventually leading to her mother's death that she ceased the game.
Masquerading as a boy was an imitation of her former hobby performed merely for survival. Now, for the first time since long ago, Louise was playing the game for fun. And Jimmy was a thrilling character to be!
For the final act, Louise gave her best 'I'm callin' you out' gaze. Yep, she could be intimidating. Her reflection proved it. Or so she thought. A sound resembling a whispered laugh disproved her theory.
"Please don't let him be awake!" Lou prayed to the heavens. Slowly, her eyes drifted to Jimmy's bunk. "Oh!" she exclaimed, throwing her hands over her face. Caught! After a few minutes of hiding, Louise peeked through her fingers. Her cheeks were blazing hot. Jimmy eyed her with a broad smile, obviously amused by her performance.
"You look real cute, Lou," he called. He sat up on his bunk, determined to study the lovely image she presented.
"I was just....uh....thanks," she mumbled nervously. What more could she say?
"You're welcome," he answered, still looking her over. His attention made her a bit flustered.
With her hands still guarding her face, Lou suggested, "This can just be our little secret?" Jimmy nodded, complying with her wishes. Today's adventure would join the list of 'hush hush' tales the two held. Their love was the most hidden treasure, lurking in the shadows for an escape from the barriers disguising it. Games and adventures inevitable set it free from its entrapment, proving the heart was the creator of all their little secrets.
Copyright 1998-This work is not to be reproduced without the permission of the author
The Way Station
Campfire Tales
