Memphis Sultry Train Chapter 6

Memphis Sultry Train
Chapter 6
The Stranger
I wondered out of my room and made my way down into the Turquoise Lounge, my favorite car on the train. My father designed and decorated it in the most exquisite colors of turquoise and burgundy, and spent a fortune on the delicately hand carved mahogany furniture. When I was a child it was a forbidden place because of the alcohol that was served. But I would sneak in after everyone retired for the night and sip on the fine whiskey’s that came in the most beautiful bottles. I can remember drinking a little too much one night and falling asleep on the velvet couch. When I woke the next morning I was terribly ill and swore I would never drink alcohol again. But after the memory of being sick wore off, I was right back at it. I think father knew I was indulging in his expensive liquors, but he never confronted me about it. Maybe he knew it was an escape from mother’s wrath for me, as it was for him as well.
I entered the car, my silk dress flowing behind me, and sat in my favorite spot, a large comfortable chair close to the bar, next to the window. Henry was tending bar as usual and always went out of his way to be kind to me. 
“Hello Mrs. Scarlet. How are you today?” Henry said as he polished the crystal glass in his hand. 
“I’m just fine Henry. Thank you for asking. How are you today?” I replied. 
“Very well. Would you like a little something to warm you up?” He asked. 
It was early in the day, not quite one in the after noon so I hesitated. I looked around and noticed a man staring at me from across the room. He held a brandy glass in his hand and slowly sipped the dark liquor, but never removed his hardened stare. 
My body shivered as a rush of fear swept through me. I thought of the woman who was murdered less than a month ago on the train. I trusted no one these days.  
The man had a strange vibe that was strong and precise. It was as if he wanted me to be intimidated by his presence.  
“The usual please.” I smiled at Henry and turned my gaze out the window.
I took a long drink of my whiskey and relaxed as the burn flowed down my throat. A warmth came over me that always reminded me of my father. 
I opened the book in my lap and began to read, determined to ignore the piercing gaze from the dark headed, handsome stranger. I crossed my legs and my dress slipped above my knee. I didn’t bother covering my legs back up even though I knew it would be the proper thing to do. I decided to hum a soft tune while twirling a lock of my hair and gazing out the window, still ignoring the strange guest across from me. The fear I was feeling began to fade into curiosity. 
Maybe I should look at the passenger manifest and see who’s name was on it. But only the passengers who booked their tickets in advance would be on the list. So my chances of finding out his name were limited. Maybe I should just ask him what his name is. After all he is on my train. 
Before I could decide he rose from his seat and approached the bar brushing against my leg as he passed. 
“Another please.” He smiled at Henry and then turned his gaze back to me. 
Was he being an arrogant ass hole trying to intimidate me like this? I suppose it was working. I reached down and slowly removed my shoes, stretched my leg out in front of me and caressed my calf, making sure to not meet his gaze. I could feel his presence even stronger the closer he got to me. It was maddening. No, it was enticing. My mind began to wonder what it would be like to feel this strange man’s body next to mine. 
“May I buy you a drink?” He asked while extending his hand to me.
I looked up into his eyes. They were the most exquisite green I had ever seen. He had a strength and presence about him that was drawing me in. I quickly reminded myself of Hamilton. 
“No, thank you.”  I said and turned back to the window. 
“Would you mind if I join you?” He asked. 
Being the hostess of this grand train it was my duty to accommodate my guests. 
“Please, have a seat.” I replied. 
At least that is how I justified the invitation I extended to him. 
An excitement stirred inside of me as he sat down. Suddenly heat pulsed through my body and the woman inside of me took over as passion moved me to want this man without reservation. All I could think of was to grab him by the hand and force him back to my private room where I could then …
“My name is Richard.” He smiled at me and extended his hand again. 
“Richard Rothchild.” 
Oh my God, my husband’s arch-enemy. The man he despises the most in this world. I’d never met him before, but Hamilton spoke of him often the first few years we were married. Oh my, this could prove to be very interesting. 

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