Prologue
California – 1850.
Lizzy stared out the window.
She kept her expression emotionless when the men entered and took the body of her husband away. She was only remembering that morning when he'd been with her and kissed her. He'd wished her the best with the boarding house and he would be back as soon as he could after he was "gold hunting" in the caves, which weren't far from the boarding house. Lizzy never forgot his eyes when he leaned down and placing his lips on hers, gave her one of the most passionate kisses he'd ever give her!
"It shouldn't take long now, Mrs. White." A voice from behind said.
Lizzy looked over and seeing one of the men, she nodded as she replied.
"Thank you. I will be down in a while."
"Understandable." The man answered before he closed the door behind him.
To Lizzy the room was dark and the only light she had was the solace from God's nature. As it streamed through the curtains, Lizzy peered over at the bed which her husband laid on before he had the accident. As she made her way over, she remembered what he'd said to her about the boarding house.
"My sister will be coming to help you, Lizzy. I pray the two of you will be alright as you always have. The men are always thrilled to see you serve them!"
Lizzy knelt in front of the mattress as she envisioned her husband. His handsome figure. The way his eyes glowed. How he would smile at her.
She briefly closed her eyes and pretended he never had the accident. But when she remembered they were waiting for her downstairs, Lizzy opened her eyes and knew it was time to prepare. And though she had black hair and fair skin, she disliked wearing a color which represented mourning. When she rose, she acted as if nothing had gone wrong when she approached her closet and upon opening it, saw the one dress she would wear to her husband's funeral.
"A black one."