I was most taken, however, with her disarming and cheerful personality.

I admit to fantasizing about Aida, often hoping she might steal into my room some night and climb into my bed. Of course, that never happened. For one thing, I was still too naive and inexperienced in the ways of women to understand that Aida was only attempting to get to know me better. We were, after all, about the same age, and she had little opportunity to talk with young men her age.

One evening, as we sat there listening to the sound of crickets and bullfrogs, she turned to me and said, "Billy, I do so enjoy these little talks. How long do you think you will stay in Dodge City? What do you want to do with your life?" "I'm not sure on either account… but I know I want to travel… to get out o...

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