h a n g d o g

hangdog. adjective | browbeaten; defeated; intimidated; abject. indie selective rp blog for kieran duffy from red dead redemption 2 [ penned by emi ]

[4qh4]

[alosthorse]

timecaught‌:

      Kieran had it rough from the first day he’d been dragged into the camp, at least some of the others had stopped making it difficult by now. Lenny had kept his distance from the situation - mostly because he’d been scouting with Micah - but even he’s seen the effort put in. Easily more than Swanson had lately.

      Lenny leans toward the fire, rubbing his hands together, resting both elbows on his knees. “-but you made it this far, right? Just like the rest of us.” The man gives a shrug, but smiles. “I think you earned you place - don’t think that Dutch hasn’t noticed - he probably can’t get past the ‘ex-O’Driscoll’ part. He’s a smart man, he knows you’re helpin’.”

      Honestly, Lenny likes the man, he’d not given any reason not to. “Even Grimshaw has a good word to say about you, and that’s definitely not easy.”

A gentle smile crosses Kieran’s face at the response, at being accepted by at least one member of the gang; he’s a stranger to this kind of treatment, so he has no idea what to say in response. Lenny’s words give him courage, hope... their effect is almost the complete opposite of what Arthur’s usual quips and insults do. 

“I think everyone can at least say I’m... resilient,” he murmured, trying out a new word he’d actually heard Mary-Beth describe him as. She was kind in saying it, so he doesn’t think it’s a bad thing to be called. Taking a long drag of his cigarette, Kieran pauses to think it all over.

“Thank you kindly, Lenny,” he begins with a sheepish look. “...It means a lot, t’ hear all that. It really, really does.” It’s the possibility of belonging somewhere that keeps Kieran afloat, keeps him from giving up completely and succumbing to despair. If he can continue proving himself a worthy member here, maybe things would finally start to turn around for him...

[alosthorse]

ncvelist‌:

‘ Oh why thank you Kieran…I’m just glad all my studying paid off….and here this looks like a good place.’ She chuckled softly, taking a seat on the bench with the warm cup of coffee in her hands, she allowed it to rest flat onto her lap patting the extra space beside her with her hand as her eyes remained on him, taking a small sip from her cup ( as the coffee was hot ) before placing it onto her lap once again , her hand gently going up to his cheek to gently stroke over his beard giving a chuckle as she locked eyes. ‘ I reckon…you are in dire need of a shave pretty soon? though then again I do love a stubble on a man, It’s very ticklish uh..I–I mean that is I think so.’ She listened as he spoke, only slightly having her arm against his own as they enjoyed the rare peace they had, gently placing her cheek onto his shoulder she hummed softly with thought. ‘ I can see the difference…but I know a few others who are still uncertain, but nevermind what they think….you belong here…atleast I believe so.’ She lifted her head abit, her eyes moving onto his own as she went silent for a few moments, taking in the other.

He didn’t want to tell her straight-out that she was the best teacher he’d ever had, because the only other candidates for that were his own parents. He hadn’t been schooled growing up, so he had nothing to compare her lessons to. Not that he wasn’t confident she was the best (because she was), but he didn’t want to also embarrass himself by doting. In the end, he settled for saying, “It really has. You’re a great teacher, miss.” 

He followed her to their semi-secluded spot, taking a seat next to her at a respectful distance. The temperature of the coffee wasn’t the only thing making him warm; her every touch and every word seemed to set his face ablaze with heat. When she commented on his beard, he couldn’t help but let out a small laugh. “You ain’t wrong, Mary-Beth. I ain’t used to be like this - in fact, I hate how long it’s gotten. Just haven’t had the chance t’ shave or cut my hair.” It was unfortunate that he looked as he did, but he definitely prioritized surviving over his image. “...now that I feel a little safer - more than I’ve felt in months, really - I think I’ll ask Arthur or someone if I could have the tools.”

‘You belong here.’ At that last sentence, his breath caught in his throat; he’d longed to hear those words from anyone in the Van der Linde gang, but he almost wasn’t surprised Mary-Beth had been the first. Her freckled face was so close to his, he felt an urge to break their distance - but couldn’t. Not yet. Instead, he took her empty hand in his, lacing their fingers together gently. “Th... thank you. Thank you kindly. I-- sorry, I’m all tongue-tied. S-sometimes it’s hard t’ think straight through how you make me feel, Mary-Beth.” 

[alosthorse]

[ so sorry, far cry 5 consumed my entire weekend... i’ll try to get to replies this week sometime ;w; ]

[skyabove-voicewithin]

Everything is not fine on Red Dead 2 so here is a doodle of Kieran and Branwen

[alosthorse]

“Meet me later tonight?“ // :3

Detective Pikachu starters

“E…eh…?” 

Blinking in surprise, he had to repeat her words in his head several times to process them, finally understanding after more than a few moments of stalling. He had no idea what she wanted to do, but he wasn’t about to decline an invitation from his favorite person. “Um… u-uh, o-of course, miss. Where did y’ wanna… meet…?” 

[alosthorse]

“Are you trying to rob me, or just annoy me?” ~ Mason

Detective Pikachu starters

Shifting uncomfortably, Kieran avoided eye contact for now; he didn’t feel right, being asked something like that directly, so he opted to study a point off in the distance. “Um… n-neither, mister. Was just… tryin’ to make conversation.” Admittedly, that wasn’t something he was very good at.

[lukas-musings]

   I can run from the 𝑙𝑎𝑤               I can run from 𝒎𝒚𝒔𝒆𝒍𝒇. 

              I can run from my 𝕝𝕚𝕗𝕖                               I can run into 𝐝𝐞𝐛𝐭. 

                            I can run from it 𝓪𝓵𝓵

                            I can run til I’m 𝙂𝙊𝙉𝙀

[alosthorse]

ncvelist‌:

‘ The gazebo? yeah I think that is the best spot for a early cup of piping hot coffee.’ She agreed, giving a nod of her head she wrapped her arms casually around his own as she walked beside him to first get the coffee. ‘ It’s a rarely we get to spend time with one another isn’t it? I mean – everyone is either out making Money…or just keeping to themselves, I think that I enjoy being around you, because you’re not so..what’s the word….distant? ‘

“Gazebo! Yeah, that! Gosh, Mary-Beth, you know a lotta them fancy words,” Kieran exclaimed, chancing a smile her way. As she looped her arms around his, her touch kind and gentle as always, Kieran felt his heart quicken against his ribcage. He loved this, loved her, no doubt, but it was still hard to get used to. As she said, they didn’t spend too much time with one another, especially after arriving at Shady Belle. Not that Kieran blamed anyone; with Jack’s kidnapping and the party upon his return, it was difficult lately to get any sort of downtime. 

He chuckled softly as they walked to the spot where the gang kept the coffee. “You’re right, we should, um, talk more. I-if you wanted to, that is.” He grinned wider, practically melting at her compliment. “I... I can’t explain it, but I think after Jack’s party, I feel a bit closer with everyone. Maybe it’s just my imagination, I don’t know. But I sure feel most comfortable around you, miss.”

[oopsiewoopsie123]

DETECTIVE PIKACHU;

send one for my muse's reaction!

“You hear that? Something’s close.” “See? This is what I’m talking about. My heart is pounding.“ “Dude, I thought you wanted to, you know, hang out and relive the good old days.“ “Just look at it. That is the perfect Pokemon for you.” “Okay, thank you, [NAME]. Thank you for that. Are there any other emotional truth-bombs you wanna drop on me?“ “I’m worried about you.“ “Please don’t put this all on yourself. No one should go through this type of thing alone.” “Are you trying to rob me, or just annoy me?” “Something’s rotten, and I'm gonna get to the bottom of it.” “Okay, okay, okay. Whoever you are, I know how to use this.“ “Okay, I’m gonna get a knife.“ “Okay, bad idea with the knife. I’ll find something else.“ “No! No! I’m not going in the trash chute.” “Oh. Looks like someone’s back in a good mood.” “You’re adorable.“ “It’s like destiny.“ “It’s not destiny.“ “You want a coffee? 'Cause I could use a coffee.“ “I could stop whenever I want. These are just choices.” “Look, I’m a great detective. But I can’t solve my own mystery if I have no memory.” “It’s the jellies. It’s that thing, you know? You feel it when you really believe in something despite everyone telling you you’re wrong.” “No, I’m gonna go. We’re done here.” “Hold up a sec. We’re gonna need each other.” “I don’t need a Pokemon. Period. Got it?” “There’s magic that brought us together, and that magic is called hope.“ “Oh, you feel it. You feel it in your jellies, don’t you?” “There’s nothing in my jellies.“ “We’re gonna do this. You and me.” “Should we talk about the fact that your childhood bed is a Pikachu bed?” “I’ve never been so flattered and creeped out at the same time.” “Uh, I was drinking that.“ “Just step anywhere. It’s only my life’s work.“ “I can see why you were so excited.” “I was… [scoffs] Okay, I was not that excited.” “Hey, again. Uh… Yeah, I know this seems weird but I actually needed to ask you something.” “This isn’t an office. It’s a coffin with pencils.” “The docks can be dangerous. It’s not the sort of place you want to visit alone at night.” “I’m actually pretty good at being alone at night.” “That’s not… That’s not what I meant to say. Um… I’m just gonna…” “We need to get some ground rules if this partnership's gonna work.” “You’re not my partner.“ “My problem is that I push people away and then hate them for leaving.” “He’s saying you can shove it.“ “Real cooking is about following your heart, not a recipe!” “All I hear are consonants, and all I see are nipples.” “Here. Hold my hat. I’m about to rock this place.“ “What are you doing? What is your plan of attack?” “I forgot everything you said! I forget things, it’s what I do! I have amnesia!” “It’s not working. I forgot how to use my powers.“ “Are you crazy? Get out of there!” “No, I’m not in denial! I’m right, I know it!” “It wasn’t your fault. It wasn’t anybody’s fault.” “I haven’t been really nice to you.” “Well, there’s no such thing as “daddy issues" without “daddy”.” “What’s with the sunglasses?“ “There’s nothing really casual about this.” “Eh, that sounds like a waste of coffee.” “So let me get this right. We’re forced to listen to this spa music so your head doesn’t explode and kill us all.” “Hey, you put that down. I am not giving you a massage.” “I may have amnesia, but I’m pretty sure this is the worst idea anyone’s ever had.” “This is no time for your stupid headaches.“ “I officially hate this forest.“ “That’s a great fifth option. Let’s work on the first four.” “I’m here, partner. I’m here.“ “You’re gonna be okay.” “You have to go on without me.“ “You’re better off on your own.“ “No! No! I need you. Please.“ “You have to stay away. It’s for your own good.” “No. I’m not letting you go.“ “You see? I can’t help it. I hurt the people who need me. That’s who I am. I’m sorry.“ “You tried to kill him!“ “You think you can stand in the way of the future?” “Give me your hand!“ “I didn’t need to defeat you. I just needed to distract you.“ “I’m sorry. I’m sorry I pushed you away just when you needed me the most.” “I’m just happy you’re back.” “Meet me later tonight?“ “You think I can stay with you for a while?”

[alosthorse]

She hadn't really had a whole lot to do with him since he'd been untied from that tree, but Abigail saw what went on in camp so she waited for a quiet moment. "Kier- mister Duffy." She brushed off her skirt, not really sure how this was gonna sound; she was still sorta embarrassed that the boy's own father didn't take much interest in him. "My boy, my Jack. Y'been real nice to him lately ... I guess I jus' wanted to thank ya. He's been real happy tellin' me about ya lettin' him feed yer horse."

A warm feeling stirs in Kieran’s chest, a smile tugging at his lips. All he wanted since getting off that tree was to eventually become a part of this gang, the Van der Lindes, and feel valuable as a member. He does well enough with the horses, he knows, and he’s a stable boy in all but  name, but it feels good to get recognized for other things, as well. Little, everyday things he doesn’t think twice about, like helping Jack learn not to fear horses. 

“Of- of course, Miss Abigail!” he exclaims, his voice cracking a bit. “I enjoyed it, too - Jack’s a real good kid. He can help me feed Branwen anytime - i-if it’s alright with you, miss!”

[alosthorse]

‘ i’ll stay right here until you fall asleep. ’ // Kieran casually laying his head on Mary beth's lap 😊

* soft family things

As the softness of lace cradles his head like a pillow and slender feminine fingers comb through his hair, Kieran lets out a gentle, pleased sigh. Mary-Beth’s face is framed by her curls as she peeks down at him, green eyes glittering in the pale light of the moon. He’s gotten bolder, lately, with acting on his feelings for her, and is considering letting her know soon. But not now, not when he’s worked himself to exhaustion and sleepily swoons over the look she’s giving him. 

“Thank you kindly,” Kieran whispers. He says it a lot to her, he knows, but he can’t help it; every time she does something for him, he wants to thank her. Wants her to know how much he appreciates her being here, giving him the time of day, treating him like a human being and a friend. 

“Goodnight…” His voice slurs as his eyelids droop, lulled to sleep by the peaceful atmosphere. All is right with the world. 

[alosthorse]

‘ i’m not angry with you, just disappointed. ’ (From Sadie)

* soft family things

Hanging his head like a scolded child, Kieran’s face flushed a tiny bit. He hadn’t really expected anyone to be… disappointed in him, as that implied some degree of care. Angry or not, Kieran should’ve known trying to take on a group of O’Driscolls by himself wasn’t a very smart move, and quite embarrassing overall. Having to get himself rescued by Arthur and Mrs. Adler was even more humiliating, but at least they weren’t too angry with him.

“…I’m sorry, miss. I hate them fellers, but that ain’t no excuse. I did wrong rushin’ in there, and I’m sorry.”

[vhsmeme]

* soft family things

‘ i love you so, so much. ’

‘ stop putting your head down in my house. you know my rule. it’s all love and all pride in this house. ’

‘ lost things have a way of turning up. ’

‘ watch your mouth. ’

‘ not so fast. you still have some vegetables left. ’

‘ very funny. ’

‘ i think you’re due for a haircut. ’

‘ come on. bedtime. ’

‘ and when were you going to tell me? ’

‘ i’m glad you came into my life. ’

‘ you were talking in your sleep. ’

‘ come here. i’ll fix it. ’

‘ this show sucks. ’

‘ mom/dad, can we go home now? ’

‘ you forgot something. ’

‘ can we stay like this for a little while? it’s nice. ’

‘ hot chocolate helps. and good company. ’

‘ you’ll feel better once you take your medicine and have a nap. ’

‘ close your eyes. it’s a surprise. ’

‘ it’s good to have you home. ’

‘ i’m not angry with you, just disappointed. ’

‘ your shoe’s untied. ’

‘ i missed this. ’

‘ hey, hey. sit down. deep breaths. ’

‘ will you tuck me in? ’

‘ go to your room and stay there until you’ve calmed down. ’

‘ i heard crying. i got worried. ’

‘ don’t use that tone with me. ’

‘ well, i love you more. ’

‘ just focus on my voice. that’s it. you’re okay. we’re okay. ’

‘ this movie is too scary. turn it off. ’

‘ how long have you been sick? ’

‘ don’t play with your food. ’

‘ i’ll stay right here until you fall asleep. ’

‘ don’t even think about going outside without your coat. ’

‘ i’m not asking you, i’m telling you. ’

‘ you can pick the story tonight. ’

‘ everyone needs somebody. we got each other. ’

‘ you call that a hug? ’

‘ i was the same way when i was your age. ’

[alosthorse]

ncvelist‌:

Leaning forward she gently placed a kiss upon Kieran’s cheek, just her way of silently thanking him for everything he has done so far, once done she chuckled bashfully allowing her arms to rest at her side for a few moments, before crossing them shyly infront of her lap. ‘ Well I reckon – now will be a good time for coffee, um would you like to join me Kieran? ‘

Kieran let out a little nervous laugh, his face heating up at the cheek kiss. He didn’t know how he got so lucky to meet Mary-Beth, but... well, he wasn’t complaining one bit. “R-reckon coffee sounds really good right now, miss,” he admitted, stifling a yawn. It was still the early hours of the morning, after all, and nothing woke him up like a nice coffee. “W-wanna sit at that, uh... what’d you call it, again?” He pointed outside Shady Belle, to the funny-shaped miniature building in the front lawn. 

[surrealist-lyricist]

Synthetic Sympathy - Trash Boat

[oesteds-deactivated20191211]

✗  ❝    so…    what were you doing with the o’driscolls ?    ❞     a cigarette rested comfortably in the ridges of his index   &   middle finger   &   smoke buffeted steadily from his lips.    his elbows reposed atop his knees   &   his weight on his toes,   leaning forwards like the devil’s found an interest   &   it’s hiding in the broad of day where not even CLOUDS hide him from holy observance.     ❝    y’keep goin’ on about not being one of them n’ hatin’ them but i ain’t exactly buyin’ all that.   i’m thinkin’ the only reason you started hatin’ them is cause you got yourself into trouble with the likes of us.    ❞  ✗

  ✗ @alosthorse

[alosthorse]

Pale green eyes shifting to regard the man beside him, Kieran steadies his gaze on John, listening intently to the venom-filled words. He blinks, slowly, keeping the cigarette between his lips keeping him mum for a few extra seconds, dragging time on as he thinks of a proper response. 

“I haven’t been lyin’ to y’all about my feelin’s on them. At all.” He attempts to keep his voice steady as he replies, knowing that this type of man can easily sniff out fear like a bloodhound. With a long sigh, Kieran blew out smoke, watching it dissipate into the hot Southern air. “They killed my first gang. Was either ride with ‘em or be killed. I chose t’ stay alive.”

Quietly, he added, “I’m startin’ to wonder if I made the wrong choice.”