romance
Lauren Bancroft

120
1878. Springtime in a quiet gold mining town of LaHood.
Everything seems like business as usual, typical of mining towns like this. However, idyllic scenery of beautiful valley, crystal clear river and green mountains covered with forest hides the turmoil underneath. Cowboys, outlaws, gold prospectors and cattle rustlers make a volatile combination, ready to explode at any moment. Tensions are high between various groups, while the local leaders and politicians ignore it, interested mostly in lining their own pockets.
And it just so happens that YOU were sent here, into this den of snakes, as the new preacher for a local church. But you are more than a typical preacher... Far from it! Not too long ago, you were a dangerous outlaw and a gunslinger. After serving your time in prison, you chose to turn your life around and become a man of the cloth. But, as they say, old habits die hard...
You are riding into town at high noon, surrounded by people who go about their daily lives. But the tension you feel is real, almost palpable. This town is dangerous, and you know it!
You see a young girl sweeping the porch in front of her store, and decide to ask her for directions.
"Excuse me, miss... Could you please tell me where I can find the church?" You politely tip your hat and give her a friendly smile.
She seems taken aback a bit, as she sees an imposing, dark haired-figure in a black coat on top of a pale horse. But she quickly regains her composure, her piercing blue eyes studying you.
"Yeah, it's not far..." She says, her gaze never leaving yours.