the home of miss marilyn taylor

ask/rp blog for red dead oc

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

@au-everett

Mr Osborn,

I confess to being rather surprised at receiving your letter, but I assure you that it was a very pleasant surprise. I don’t get mail very often, in fact barely ever, so you can imagine how confused I was to see something addressed to me when I checked the mail. And I’m sure you can agree that it’s a good thing that I was the one who checked, as I can’t imagine Victor would’ve been terribly happy about it.

I’m glad to hear that you’re well, particularly with how dangerous your line of work is. I hope you remain that way, so that I may see you again in one piece. I’m afraid I have nothing very exciting to report, as I said to you before, my life is rather boring and predictable in comparison to yours. My lessons continue as normal, and I have worn through yet another pair of pointe shoes. My ballet tutor is very pleased with this, but my feet don’t share her enthusiasm. Honestly the biggest thing that has happened here is that one of the cats, Olga, has given birth. Seven beautiful little kittens, I’m watching them now, and I love them more and more with each passing moment. We have no way of knowing who the father is, but judging by the patterns and coloring on a few, I suspect it to be a particular golden tabby that I’ve spotted near the house on more than one occasion. I’m not sure if he’ll come see his offspring. I certainly hope so.

Apologies for not having anything more to tell you, I fear you made a rather poor choice in whom to send letters to Mr Osborn, but all the same, if you continue to write, then so shall I.

Please stay safe.

My sincerest regards,

Marilyn Taylor

[au-everett]

Miss Taylor,

I think I made a fine choice of writing partner. It’s a nice change of pace, reading about ballet and cats. I’d rather read about that than about whatever it is I’m doing.

Haven’t done much since my last letter. Been tracking a man through Lemoyne, and he’s been eluding me through either sheer luck or brilliant tactics. I’m hoping that by lying low for a while, I can lure him out, make him think I ain’t after him anymore.

In the meantime, I’ve been practicing a bit of leather working. I’ve enclosed a little plait, you can use it how you like, or toss it if it’s not to your liking at all.

I miss being in your company. The world seems so much simpler when I’m with you.

My best regards,

Everett

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

(Marilyn reads the letter with excitement, almost giddy. She has to do it in secret, so that Victor doesn’t find out. It adds a slight thrill to it.)

Mr Osborn,

I’m glad to hear that I didn’t bore you to tears with my letter, quaint as it was. Thank you for the plait, it’s lovely, and the cats certainly enjoy pawing at it, but I take it away when they unsheath their claws, I would hate to see your hard work ruined. I never learned how to work leather, or anything in the realm of manual labor really, my lessons are of a very different breed. But even someone as ignorant as I can see that it’s well done, you are rather good with your hands.

Are you a cat person? If so I’ll try and introduce to the ones here next time you’re in town. There’s fifteen in all, counting the new litter, and the local strays have learned that they will have an easier time here than at other homes. I’ve always loved cats, and I’m more than a tad envious of how they can laze about in the sun without a single care in the world. I certainly wouldn’t be able to get away with that.

I hope you find your man soon, I would hate for you to be stuck waiting too long. Is it your first time in Lemoyne? I’ve been in the state a few times, but not very often or for very long, the heat is detrimental to my health. I suppose that’s why I’ve grown so close to the cats. I couldn’t play with the other children because of my lessons and intolerance to the heat, so I was forced to stay inside, find ways to entertain myself. At least Ilya is always around to alleviate any lethargy and ennui that may creep up on me. I hope he didn’t offend you when you two met, he can be a little much for people who don’t know him at the best of times, but I think you two would get on well. His letters would certainly be far more exciting than mine.

As for ballet, I don’t recommend doing it unless you’re fine with having perpetually sore feet and going trough dozens upon dozens upon dozens of pointe shoes every year. I’m of course grateful for the opportunity to learn it, there are few pursuits that are as elegant in my opinion, but it is extremely hard work. I don’t envy the professionals one bit, the poor things.

I pray that you remain safe, and that you are well compensated for your hard work. Thank you again for the leather plait.

Sincerely,

Marilyn Taylor

[au-everett]

(Everett doesn’t write back for some time, but when he finally has time to write, he sends the letter right after he finishes it, eagerly waiting for a response)

Dearest Miss Taylor,

Sorry for taking so long. I was out in the swamps after finding a lead. The man I was tracking had turned feral, his clothes torn and shredded, scars all over him from fighting the gators and whatever else lives out here. He was crouched over like an animal himself, barely able to speak words. I think the night people must have gotten to him, made him crazy, for he fought me every step of the way. I must have knocked him out three times between Lagras and St. Denis.

After that, I thought I’d do an easy bounty, but catching a man who was running away for stealing a few bottles of beer turned out to be a much harder job than I thought. It wasn’t worth the $5, not after chasing him through the old Civil War battleground south of Rhodes. Nearly impaled myself on those spikes quite a few times. Only reason I caught the man was because he did impale himself. Still alive, but it wasn’t pretty. I won’t describe more here, I don’t want to shake you up any.

I might be coming through your part of town soon. I could use a break, and if you can get away for a little bit, I’d love your company. I know it ain’t proper for a man to call on a lady, so I’ll let you call on me.

Yours,

Everett

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

(Marilyn read the letter over and over, heart hammering every time her eyes ran over the word ‘Dearest’. She tells herself to remain calm, but it’s easier said than done.)

Dear Mr Osborne

I’m so sorry to hear about all of that. It sounds awful, I cant imagine what it must be like to witness such horrendous things. You truly are a strong man. I’m glad to hear that you’re well and in one piece, and even gladder to hear of your possible return. I wouldn’t want you to take time out of your schedule just for me, I’m sure you have far more important things to tend to. But should you find the time for me, I will certainly do my best to see you. I will even try and smuggle the kittens and their mother out to see you, I’m sure they’re eager to meet the man who made their favorite toy.

My time is usually taken up by my lessons and church, but I do have little windows of freedom where I may go and do as I wish, within reason of course, so I will most definitely see you. I’ll have to be careful, I don’t think Victor has caught on to our little correspondence, but it can be hard to tell with him. Ilya is back from New York so he will no doubt provide a more than adequate distraction. He’s always at his most rambunctious when he’s back from one of the larger cities, wanting to tell everyone about everything he did and saw and the people he spoke to and the money he spent. Usually it would be hard to slip past him as well, but he’s brought back absolute mountains of pretty things for all the ladies he’s acquainted with and I know he fully intends to make a great show of giving it all away. If there’s one thing he loves more than shopping it’s making a spectacle of his purchases. Once he’s mobbed by his many admirers it’ll be easy enough for me to get away.

I very much look forward to seeing you again, and hearing more about what you’ve done. Where would be the best place for us to meet? I await your reply with no small amount of excitement.

Sincerely,

Marilyn Taylor

[au-everett]

Everett reads the letter with a smile on his face.

Sweet Marilyn,

I’m close to your town. In fact, by the time you receive this, I may be camping nearby, by the side of the river where I taught you to protect yourself. I hope you’ve remembered what I taught you. I’d like to think that you’d always be safe, but given your penchant for going wherever you like, I’d like it more if you were able to take care of yourself a bit more.

I’ll swing by if I can, but I’ll wait for your reply before doing so. I get the feeling that if Ilya sees me, he’ll chase me out like a stray dog.

I miss your smile. Hope to see you soon.

Yours,

Everett

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

(Sweet. He called her sweet. ‘Get a hold of yourself.’ He misses my smile. ‘Stop being stupid.’)

Mr Osborn

Consider it done. I’ll wait until Ilya has everyone thoroughly entertained, which really shouldn’t take too long, and I’ll smuggle out the kittens and their mother out with me to meet you. Normally I’m not anywhere near this daring, but it appears that I am capable of more than I thought.

And you musn’t fear Ilya, really. His bark is worse than his bite and his bark is hardly anything at all. He may worry about me at times but I assure you that if I were to introduce you to him properly he will be perfectly amiable, although he will more than likely talk your ear off, he truly is enamored with the sound of his voice.

I eagerly await our reunion.

Sincerely,

Marilyn Taylor

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

@au-everett

Mr Osborn,

I confess to being rather surprised at receiving your letter, but I assure you that it was a very pleasant surprise. I don’t get mail very often, in fact barely ever, so you can imagine how confused I was to see something addressed to me when I checked the mail. And I’m sure you can agree that it’s a good thing that I was the one who checked, as I can’t imagine Victor would’ve been terribly happy about it.

I’m glad to hear that you’re well, particularly with how dangerous your line of work is. I hope you remain that way, so that I may see you again in one piece. I’m afraid I have nothing very exciting to report, as I said to you before, my life is rather boring and predictable in comparison to yours. My lessons continue as normal, and I have worn through yet another pair of pointe shoes. My ballet tutor is very pleased with this, but my feet don’t share her enthusiasm. Honestly the biggest thing that has happened here is that one of the cats, Olga, has given birth. Seven beautiful little kittens, I’m watching them now, and I love them more and more with each passing moment. We have no way of knowing who the father is, but judging by the patterns and coloring on a few, I suspect it to be a particular golden tabby that I’ve spotted near the house on more than one occasion. I’m not sure if he’ll come see his offspring. I certainly hope so.

Apologies for not having anything more to tell you, I fear you made a rather poor choice in whom to send letters to Mr Osborn, but all the same, if you continue to write, then so shall I.

Please stay safe.

My sincerest regards,

Marilyn Taylor

[au-everett]

Miss Taylor,

I think I made a fine choice of writing partner. It’s a nice change of pace, reading about ballet and cats. I’d rather read about that than about whatever it is I’m doing.

Haven’t done much since my last letter. Been tracking a man through Lemoyne, and he’s been eluding me through either sheer luck or brilliant tactics. I’m hoping that by lying low for a while, I can lure him out, make him think I ain’t after him anymore.

In the meantime, I’ve been practicing a bit of leather working. I’ve enclosed a little plait, you can use it how you like, or toss it if it’s not to your liking at all.

I miss being in your company. The world seems so much simpler when I’m with you.

My best regards,

Everett

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

(Marilyn reads the letter with excitement, almost giddy. She has to do it in secret, so that Victor doesn’t find out. It adds a slight thrill to it.)

Mr Osborn,

I’m glad to hear that I didn’t bore you to tears with my letter, quaint as it was. Thank you for the plait, it’s lovely, and the cats certainly enjoy pawing at it, but I take it away when they unsheath their claws, I would hate to see your hard work ruined. I never learned how to work leather, or anything in the realm of manual labor really, my lessons are of a very different breed. But even someone as ignorant as I can see that it’s well done, you are rather good with your hands.

Are you a cat person? If so I’ll try and introduce to the ones here next time you’re in town. There’s fifteen in all, counting the new litter, and the local strays have learned that they will have an easier time here than at other homes. I’ve always loved cats, and I’m more than a tad envious of how they can laze about in the sun without a single care in the world. I certainly wouldn’t be able to get away with that.

I hope you find your man soon, I would hate for you to be stuck waiting too long. Is it your first time in Lemoyne? I’ve been in the state a few times, but not very often or for very long, the heat is detrimental to my health. I suppose that’s why I’ve grown so close to the cats. I couldn’t play with the other children because of my lessons and intolerance to the heat, so I was forced to stay inside, find ways to entertain myself. At least Ilya is always around to alleviate any lethargy and ennui that may creep up on me. I hope he didn’t offend you when you two met, he can be a little much for people who don’t know him at the best of times, but I think you two would get on well. His letters would certainly be far more exciting than mine.

As for ballet, I don’t recommend doing it unless you’re fine with having perpetually sore feet and going trough dozens upon dozens upon dozens of pointe shoes every year. I’m of course grateful for the opportunity to learn it, there are few pursuits that are as elegant in my opinion, but it is extremely hard work. I don’t envy the professionals one bit, the poor things.

I pray that you remain safe, and that you are well compensated for your hard work. Thank you again for the leather plait.

Sincerely,

Marilyn Taylor

[au-everett]

(Everett doesn’t write back for some time, but when he finally has time to write, he sends the letter right after he finishes it, eagerly waiting for a response)

Dearest Miss Taylor,

Sorry for taking so long. I was out in the swamps after finding a lead. The man I was tracking had turned feral, his clothes torn and shredded, scars all over him from fighting the gators and whatever else lives out here. He was crouched over like an animal himself, barely able to speak words. I think the night people must have gotten to him, made him crazy, for he fought me every step of the way. I must have knocked him out three times between Lagras and St. Denis.

After that, I thought I’d do an easy bounty, but catching a man who was running away for stealing a few bottles of beer turned out to be a much harder job than I thought. It wasn’t worth the $5, not after chasing him through the old Civil War battleground south of Rhodes. Nearly impaled myself on those spikes quite a few times. Only reason I caught the man was because he did impale himself. Still alive, but it wasn’t pretty. I won’t describe more here, I don’t want to shake you up any.

I might be coming through your part of town soon. I could use a break, and if you can get away for a little bit, I’d love your company. I know it ain’t proper for a man to call on a lady, so I’ll let you call on me.

Yours,

Everett

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

(Marilyn read the letter over and over, heart hammering every time her eyes ran over the word ‘Dearest’. She tells herself to remain calm, but it’s easier said than done.)

Dear Mr Osborne

I’m so sorry to hear about all of that. It sounds awful, I cant imagine what it must be like to witness such horrendous things. You truly are a strong man. I’m glad to hear that you’re well and in one piece, and even gladder to hear of your possible return. I wouldn’t want you to take time out of your schedule just for me, I’m sure you have far more important things to tend to. But should you find the time for me, I will certainly do my best to see you. I will even try and smuggle the kittens and their mother out to see you, I’m sure they’re eager to meet the man who made their favorite toy.

My time is usually taken up by my lessons and church, but I do have little windows of freedom where I may go and do as I wish, within reason of course, so I will most definitely see you. I’ll have to be careful, I don’t think Victor has caught on to our little correspondence, but it can be hard to tell with him. Ilya is back from New York so he will no doubt provide a more than adequate distraction. He’s always at his most rambunctious when he’s back from one of the larger cities, wanting to tell everyone about everything he did and saw and the people he spoke to and the money he spent. Usually it would be hard to slip past him as well, but he’s brought back absolute mountains of pretty things for all the ladies he’s acquainted with and I know he fully intends to make a great show of giving it all away. If there’s one thing he loves more than shopping it’s making a spectacle of his purchases. Once he’s mobbed by his many admirers it’ll be easy enough for me to get away.

I very much look forward to seeing you again, and hearing more about what you’ve done. Where would be the best place for us to meet? I await your reply with no small amount of excitement.

Sincerely,

Marilyn Taylor

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

@au-everett

Mr Osborn,

I confess to being rather surprised at receiving your letter, but I assure you that it was a very pleasant surprise. I don’t get mail very often, in fact barely ever, so you can imagine how confused I was to see something addressed to me when I checked the mail. And I’m sure you can agree that it’s a good thing that I was the one who checked, as I can’t imagine Victor would’ve been terribly happy about it.

I’m glad to hear that you’re well, particularly with how dangerous your line of work is. I hope you remain that way, so that I may see you again in one piece. I’m afraid I have nothing very exciting to report, as I said to you before, my life is rather boring and predictable in comparison to yours. My lessons continue as normal, and I have worn through yet another pair of pointe shoes. My ballet tutor is very pleased with this, but my feet don’t share her enthusiasm. Honestly the biggest thing that has happened here is that one of the cats, Olga, has given birth. Seven beautiful little kittens, I’m watching them now, and I love them more and more with each passing moment. We have no way of knowing who the father is, but judging by the patterns and coloring on a few, I suspect it to be a particular golden tabby that I’ve spotted near the house on more than one occasion. I’m not sure if he’ll come see his offspring. I certainly hope so.

Apologies for not having anything more to tell you, I fear you made a rather poor choice in whom to send letters to Mr Osborn, but all the same, if you continue to write, then so shall I.

Please stay safe.

My sincerest regards,

Marilyn Taylor

[au-everett]

Miss Taylor,

I think I made a fine choice of writing partner. It’s a nice change of pace, reading about ballet and cats. I’d rather read about that than about whatever it is I’m doing.

Haven’t done much since my last letter. Been tracking a man through Lemoyne, and he’s been eluding me through either sheer luck or brilliant tactics. I’m hoping that by lying low for a while, I can lure him out, make him think I ain’t after him anymore.

In the meantime, I’ve been practicing a bit of leather working. I’ve enclosed a little plait, you can use it how you like, or toss it if it’s not to your liking at all.

I miss being in your company. The world seems so much simpler when I’m with you.

My best regards,

Everett

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

(Marilyn reads the letter with excitement, almost giddy. She has to do it in secret, so that Victor doesn’t find out. It adds a slight thrill to it.)

Mr Osborn,

I’m glad to hear that I didn’t bore you to tears with my letter, quaint as it was. Thank you for the plait, it’s lovely, and the cats certainly enjoy pawing at it, but I take it away when they unsheath their claws, I would hate to see your hard work ruined. I never learned how to work leather, or anything in the realm of manual labor really, my lessons are of a very different breed. But even someone as ignorant as I can see that it’s well done, you are rather good with your hands.

Are you a cat person? If so I’ll try and introduce to the ones here next time you’re in town. There’s fifteen in all, counting the new litter, and the local strays have learned that they will have an easier time here than at other homes. I’ve always loved cats, and I’m more than a tad envious of how they can laze about in the sun without a single care in the world. I certainly wouldn’t be able to get away with that.

I hope you find your man soon, I would hate for you to be stuck waiting too long. Is it your first time in Lemoyne? I’ve been in the state a few times, but not very often or for very long, the heat is detrimental to my health. I suppose that’s why I’ve grown so close to the cats. I couldn’t play with the other children because of my lessons and intolerance to the heat, so I was forced to stay inside, find ways to entertain myself. At least Ilya is always around to alleviate any lethargy and ennui that may creep up on me. I hope he didn’t offend you when you two met, he can be a little much for people who don’t know him at the best of times, but I think you two would get on well. His letters would certainly be far more exciting than mine.

As for ballet, I don’t recommend doing it unless you’re fine with having perpetually sore feet and going trough dozens upon dozens upon dozens of pointe shoes every year. I’m of course grateful for the opportunity to learn it, there are few pursuits that are as elegant in my opinion, but it is extremely hard work. I don’t envy the professionals one bit, the poor things.

I pray that you remain safe, and that you are well compensated for your hard work. Thank you again for the leather plait.

Sincerely,

Marilyn Taylor

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

@au-everett

Mr Osborn,

I confess to being rather surprised at receiving your letter, but I assure you that it was a very pleasant surprise. I don’t get mail very often, in fact barely ever, so you can imagine how confused I was to see something addressed to me when I checked the mail. And I’m sure you can agree that it’s a good thing that I was the one who checked, as I can’t imagine Victor would’ve been terribly happy about it.

I’m glad to hear that you’re well, particularly with how dangerous your line of work is. I hope you remain that way, so that I may see you again in one piece. I’m afraid I have nothing very exciting to report, as I said to you before, my life is rather boring and predictable in comparison to yours. My lessons continue as normal, and I have worn through yet another pair of pointe shoes. My ballet tutor is very pleased with this, but my feet don’t share her enthusiasm. Honestly the biggest thing that has happened here is that one of the cats, Olga, has given birth. Seven beautiful little kittens, I’m watching them now, and I love them more and more with each passing moment. We have no way of knowing who the father is, but judging by the patterns and coloring on a few, I suspect it to be a particular golden tabby that I’ve spotted near the house on more than one occasion. I’m not sure if he’ll come see his offspring. I certainly hope so.

Apologies for not having anything more to tell you, I fear you made a rather poor choice in whom to send letters to Mr Osborn, but all the same, if you continue to write, then so shall I.

Please stay safe.

My sincerest regards,

Marilyn Taylor

[au-everett]

Marilyn gripped Mr Osborne's forearm and tried to push him away, breath hitching a little. She tilted her head back a little to look up at Mr Osborne, eyes wide and nervous as she bit her bottom lip. "Y-You're really strong." She said softly.

Everett felt the pressure against his elbow and let her push his arm enough to give her room to move.

"Sorry sweetheart. You can slip out from my arm now," he murmured. "Just drop down and duck out of my hold."

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

Marilyn did as she was told, gracefully ducking and sliding out of Mr Osborn's grip, pivoting to look back at him. Her heart was beating rapidly at being so close to him, and she fought back a blush. "That was...very educational Mr Osborn." She said, a little breathlessly. "Th-thank you."

[au-everett]

"Any time, sweetheart." He pat her head gently. "The best thing to do is scream and run away, of course."

Holding back his urge to give her a kiss on her pretty blushing cheek, Everett smiled. "Let's pack up and get goin'. Don't want to keep your folks waiting."

He leaned in to whisper in her ear, close enough that his breath moved her strands of hair. "And don't let'em know about our little lesson, alright?" Pulling back, he gave a conspiratorial wink before going to pack up.

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

Marilyn smiled wider and more brightly at the praise. She was about to speak, but froze when Mr Osborn moved closer, and whispered to her. Unable to get even a single word out, she nervously nodded, fidgeting a little with her fingers even as she mounted Gladys. “They-they won’t hear about it Mr Osborn.” She promised, finally finding her words again. “And...well, I mean, if you’re ever in town again....and if it wouldn’t be too much trouble...f-feel free to drop by and say hello! It’ll be nice to see you without having to track you down.” She smiled shyly, hoping that he would take her suggestion into consideration.

[au-everett]

He smiled and nodded. "I'd love to visit, Ms. Taylor, if your keepers don't chase me out first."

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

“Don’t worry, hopefully next time I’ll be conscious enough to stop that.” She giggled a little at her joke, genuinely surprised that Mr Osborn was willing to take her up on her offer. “But they really do mean well, I promise. They’ve known me since I was a child, and it can be hard not to feel strongly about someone when you’ve known them for that long.”

[au-everett]

Everett nodded, smiling softly at her little giggle. She was awfully cute, too innocent for his world.

But if he couldn't resist the chance to see her again. He wondered about the other man, however.

"So, uh, can you tell me more about them? All I know is that one seems like he works for your house, and the other...?" He trailed off, letting her finish his thought.

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

"Victor is the head butler and he's in charge of the rest of the staff." Marilyn explained. "He's very strict and has very high standards, but that comes with the job. The other one is Ilya." Marilyn paused and sighed, the way one would when talking about a child that was a handful. "We've been friends since we were children, and he's very...doting." She was being diplomatic, not wanting Mr Osborn to get an unfavourable impression of Ilya. "I think I indulged him too much when we were younger, because it's escalated over the years." She sighed. "But he's really very sweet, I couldn't wish for a better friend."

[au-everett]

Everett noted how she spoke of the two men.

"Just a friend?" he asked. "He seems to care for you more than that."

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

“No Mr Osborn, I assure you, Ilya only sees me as a friend. Like I said, he’s just very doting.” She was used to people doting the platonicness of her friendship with Ilya, at least on his part, so it no longer bothered her. “He’s like an overly excitable puppy, that’s all.”

[au-everett]

Everett nodded, wanting to believe her, but he got the distinct feeling that she was misunderstanding the man's feelings. He felt a little sorry for him after hearing this, but only a little bit.

"Well, alright, if you say so," he said, trying to hide the doubt he felt. If this was true, then he had a chance. Time to put on the ol' Osborn charm.

As they rode back the town where they had first met, Everett tried to regale her with some of the wilder tales he had heard from his travels, like the man who wore a dress and led a circus, or the woman who dressed up as a man and led a gang out west.

By the time the town was within sight, the sun was starting its descent below the mountains.

"I didn't bore you, did I?"

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

Marilyn remained on the edge of her seat-well, saddle-as Mr Osborn told her about his adventures. She couldn’t help but giggle at some parts, while at others she held her breath in disbelief. She couldn’t help but gaze at him in awe.

“Not at all!” She assured him quickly. “How could anyone be bored when hearing all of that? You’ve lived a very full life Mr Osborn.” She couldn’t help but feel jealous. She had never seen any kind of adventure, least of all the kind he had. She felt woefully boring and inadequate and it made her look down. “You’ve certainly seen more than I have.” She sighed, wistfully.

[au-everett]

He smiled a bit wryly. "I sure have seen a lot... But with all the good comes a lot of bad, too. There are things I've seen, and done, that I wouldn't wish on most others."

"We're almost back. Should I stay back when we get close enough? I don't think your friends will take kindly to seein' me around again."

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

Marilyn furrowed her brow a little. What could a man like Mr Osborn have possibly seen? She looked ahead, and down the road, where not too far the house loomed large, almost over the whole town. Modest it most certainly was not, but it was tasteful, which was more than could be said for plenty of other homes Marilyn had seen.

“That might be a good idea, I would hate for you to get in trouble because of me.” She sighed a little, a pang resounding in her heart at how unfair that was for Mr Osborn, who had been nothing but kind to her from day one when she stumbled across him. Loneliness began it’s slow creep over her, as it liked to do.

[au-everett]

Noticing her sigh, he maneuvered his horse closer to hers. Reaching towards her, he pat her hands kindly. "Never know what the future brings, sweetheart. Our paths may cross again before you know it."

He took his hand away, only to reach up and brush some stray strands of hair behind her ear, his fingers brushing along the shell of it. The look in his eyes was warmer than it had ever been.

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

A deep red blush came over Marilyn’s face when Mr Osborne touched her hands, and it quickly got worse when he brushed her hair away and touched her ear. She looked up at him, and melted under his gaze. Her heart rate began to pick up, and she even felt it flutter a little, and her breath hitched ever so slightly.

She quickly looked away, delicately moving her head away from Mr Osborn’s hand, heart still pounding, as she tried to calm herself down. ‘Don’t be silly now.’ “M-Maybe...” She said quietly.

[au-everett]

Everett held back his urge to pull her into his arms. He might overwhelm the poor woman. For now, he pulled his hand away and smiled. "It was a pleasure spending time with you, Miss Taylor. Best of luck to you." He nodded towards the house. "Go on then, sweetheart, before they see me."

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

Marilyn nodded, still looking away, but didn’t move. “And to you Mr Osborn. Godspeed and...stay safe. Please.” She finally nudged Gladys forward, but when she was just halfway to the house, she dared to look back, heart racing, just for a second, for what might be one last look at Mr Osborn.

[au-everett]

Marilyn gripped Mr Osborne's forearm and tried to push him away, breath hitching a little. She tilted her head back a little to look up at Mr Osborne, eyes wide and nervous as she bit her bottom lip. "Y-You're really strong." She said softly.

Everett felt the pressure against his elbow and let her push his arm enough to give her room to move.

"Sorry sweetheart. You can slip out from my arm now," he murmured. "Just drop down and duck out of my hold."

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

Marilyn did as she was told, gracefully ducking and sliding out of Mr Osborn's grip, pivoting to look back at him. Her heart was beating rapidly at being so close to him, and she fought back a blush. "That was...very educational Mr Osborn." She said, a little breathlessly. "Th-thank you."

[au-everett]

"Any time, sweetheart." He pat her head gently. "The best thing to do is scream and run away, of course."

Holding back his urge to give her a kiss on her pretty blushing cheek, Everett smiled. "Let's pack up and get goin'. Don't want to keep your folks waiting."

He leaned in to whisper in her ear, close enough that his breath moved her strands of hair. "And don't let'em know about our little lesson, alright?" Pulling back, he gave a conspiratorial wink before going to pack up.

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

Marilyn smiled wider and more brightly at the praise. She was about to speak, but froze when Mr Osborn moved closer, and whispered to her. Unable to get even a single word out, she nervously nodded, fidgeting a little with her fingers even as she mounted Gladys. “They-they won’t hear about it Mr Osborn.” She promised, finally finding her words again. “And...well, I mean, if you’re ever in town again....and if it wouldn’t be too much trouble...f-feel free to drop by and say hello! It’ll be nice to see you without having to track you down.” She smiled shyly, hoping that he would take her suggestion into consideration.

[au-everett]

He smiled and nodded. "I'd love to visit, Ms. Taylor, if your keepers don't chase me out first."

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

“Don’t worry, hopefully next time I’ll be conscious enough to stop that.” She giggled a little at her joke, genuinely surprised that Mr Osborn was willing to take her up on her offer. “But they really do mean well, I promise. They’ve known me since I was a child, and it can be hard not to feel strongly about someone when you’ve known them for that long.”

[au-everett]

Everett nodded, smiling softly at her little giggle. She was awfully cute, too innocent for his world.

But if he couldn't resist the chance to see her again. He wondered about the other man, however.

"So, uh, can you tell me more about them? All I know is that one seems like he works for your house, and the other...?" He trailed off, letting her finish his thought.

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

"Victor is the head butler and he's in charge of the rest of the staff." Marilyn explained. "He's very strict and has very high standards, but that comes with the job. The other one is Ilya." Marilyn paused and sighed, the way one would when talking about a child that was a handful. "We've been friends since we were children, and he's very...doting." She was being diplomatic, not wanting Mr Osborn to get an unfavourable impression of Ilya. "I think I indulged him too much when we were younger, because it's escalated over the years." She sighed. "But he's really very sweet, I couldn't wish for a better friend."

[au-everett]

Everett noted how she spoke of the two men.

"Just a friend?" he asked. "He seems to care for you more than that."

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

“No Mr Osborn, I assure you, Ilya only sees me as a friend. Like I said, he’s just very doting.” She was used to people doting the platonicness of her friendship with Ilya, at least on his part, so it no longer bothered her. “He’s like an overly excitable puppy, that’s all.”

[au-everett]

Everett nodded, wanting to believe her, but he got the distinct feeling that she was misunderstanding the man's feelings. He felt a little sorry for him after hearing this, but only a little bit.

"Well, alright, if you say so," he said, trying to hide the doubt he felt. If this was true, then he had a chance. Time to put on the ol' Osborn charm.

As they rode back the town where they had first met, Everett tried to regale her with some of the wilder tales he had heard from his travels, like the man who wore a dress and led a circus, or the woman who dressed up as a man and led a gang out west.

By the time the town was within sight, the sun was starting its descent below the mountains.

"I didn't bore you, did I?"

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

Marilyn remained on the edge of her seat-well, saddle-as Mr Osborn told her about his adventures. She couldn’t help but giggle at some parts, while at others she held her breath in disbelief. She couldn’t help but gaze at him in awe.

“Not at all!” She assured him quickly. “How could anyone be bored when hearing all of that? You’ve lived a very full life Mr Osborn.” She couldn’t help but feel jealous. She had never seen any kind of adventure, least of all the kind he had. She felt woefully boring and inadequate and it made her look down. “You’ve certainly seen more than I have.” She sighed, wistfully.

[au-everett]

He smiled a bit wryly. "I sure have seen a lot... But with all the good comes a lot of bad, too. There are things I've seen, and done, that I wouldn't wish on most others."

"We're almost back. Should I stay back when we get close enough? I don't think your friends will take kindly to seein' me around again."

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

Marilyn furrowed her brow a little. What could a man like Mr Osborn have possibly seen? She looked ahead, and down the road, where not too far the house loomed large, almost over the whole town. Modest it most certainly was not, but it was tasteful, which was more than could be said for plenty of other homes Marilyn had seen.

“That might be a good idea, I would hate for you to get in trouble because of me.” She sighed a little, a pang resounding in her heart at how unfair that was for Mr Osborn, who had been nothing but kind to her from day one when she stumbled across him. Loneliness began it’s slow creep over her, as it liked to do.

[au-everett]

Noticing her sigh, he maneuvered his horse closer to hers. Reaching towards her, he pat her hands kindly. "Never know what the future brings, sweetheart. Our paths may cross again before you know it."

He took his hand away, only to reach up and brush some stray strands of hair behind her ear, his fingers brushing along the shell of it. The look in his eyes was warmer than it had ever been.

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

A deep red blush came over Marilyn’s face when Mr Osborne touched her hands, and it quickly got worse when he brushed her hair away and touched her ear. She looked up at him, and melted under his gaze. Her heart rate began to pick up, and she even felt it flutter a little, and her breath hitched ever so slightly.

She quickly looked away, delicately moving her head away from Mr Osborn’s hand, heart still pounding, as she tried to calm herself down. ‘Don’t be silly now.’ “M-Maybe...” She said quietly.

[au-everett]

Marilyn gripped Mr Osborne's forearm and tried to push him away, breath hitching a little. She tilted her head back a little to look up at Mr Osborne, eyes wide and nervous as she bit her bottom lip. "Y-You're really strong." She said softly.

Everett felt the pressure against his elbow and let her push his arm enough to give her room to move.

"Sorry sweetheart. You can slip out from my arm now," he murmured. "Just drop down and duck out of my hold."

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

Marilyn did as she was told, gracefully ducking and sliding out of Mr Osborn's grip, pivoting to look back at him. Her heart was beating rapidly at being so close to him, and she fought back a blush. "That was...very educational Mr Osborn." She said, a little breathlessly. "Th-thank you."

[au-everett]

"Any time, sweetheart." He pat her head gently. "The best thing to do is scream and run away, of course."

Holding back his urge to give her a kiss on her pretty blushing cheek, Everett smiled. "Let's pack up and get goin'. Don't want to keep your folks waiting."

He leaned in to whisper in her ear, close enough that his breath moved her strands of hair. "And don't let'em know about our little lesson, alright?" Pulling back, he gave a conspiratorial wink before going to pack up.

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

Marilyn smiled wider and more brightly at the praise. She was about to speak, but froze when Mr Osborn moved closer, and whispered to her. Unable to get even a single word out, she nervously nodded, fidgeting a little with her fingers even as she mounted Gladys. “They-they won’t hear about it Mr Osborn.” She promised, finally finding her words again. “And...well, I mean, if you’re ever in town again....and if it wouldn’t be too much trouble...f-feel free to drop by and say hello! It’ll be nice to see you without having to track you down.” She smiled shyly, hoping that he would take her suggestion into consideration.

[au-everett]

He smiled and nodded. "I'd love to visit, Ms. Taylor, if your keepers don't chase me out first."

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

“Don’t worry, hopefully next time I’ll be conscious enough to stop that.” She giggled a little at her joke, genuinely surprised that Mr Osborn was willing to take her up on her offer. “But they really do mean well, I promise. They’ve known me since I was a child, and it can be hard not to feel strongly about someone when you’ve known them for that long.”

[au-everett]

Everett nodded, smiling softly at her little giggle. She was awfully cute, too innocent for his world.

But if he couldn't resist the chance to see her again. He wondered about the other man, however.

"So, uh, can you tell me more about them? All I know is that one seems like he works for your house, and the other...?" He trailed off, letting her finish his thought.

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

"Victor is the head butler and he's in charge of the rest of the staff." Marilyn explained. "He's very strict and has very high standards, but that comes with the job. The other one is Ilya." Marilyn paused and sighed, the way one would when talking about a child that was a handful. "We've been friends since we were children, and he's very...doting." She was being diplomatic, not wanting Mr Osborn to get an unfavourable impression of Ilya. "I think I indulged him too much when we were younger, because it's escalated over the years." She sighed. "But he's really very sweet, I couldn't wish for a better friend."

[au-everett]

Everett noted how she spoke of the two men.

"Just a friend?" he asked. "He seems to care for you more than that."

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

“No Mr Osborn, I assure you, Ilya only sees me as a friend. Like I said, he’s just very doting.” She was used to people doting the platonicness of her friendship with Ilya, at least on his part, so it no longer bothered her. “He’s like an overly excitable puppy, that’s all.”

[au-everett]

Everett nodded, wanting to believe her, but he got the distinct feeling that she was misunderstanding the man's feelings. He felt a little sorry for him after hearing this, but only a little bit.

"Well, alright, if you say so," he said, trying to hide the doubt he felt. If this was true, then he had a chance. Time to put on the ol' Osborn charm.

As they rode back the town where they had first met, Everett tried to regale her with some of the wilder tales he had heard from his travels, like the man who wore a dress and led a circus, or the woman who dressed up as a man and led a gang out west.

By the time the town was within sight, the sun was starting its descent below the mountains.

"I didn't bore you, did I?"

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

Marilyn remained on the edge of her seat-well, saddle-as Mr Osborn told her about his adventures. She couldn’t help but giggle at some parts, while at others she held her breath in disbelief. She couldn’t help but gaze at him in awe.

“Not at all!” She assured him quickly. “How could anyone be bored when hearing all of that? You’ve lived a very full life Mr Osborn.” She couldn’t help but feel jealous. She had never seen any kind of adventure, least of all the kind he had. She felt woefully boring and inadequate and it made her look down. “You’ve certainly seen more than I have.” She sighed, wistfully.

[au-everett]

He smiled a bit wryly. "I sure have seen a lot... But with all the good comes a lot of bad, too. There are things I've seen, and done, that I wouldn't wish on most others."

"We're almost back. Should I stay back when we get close enough? I don't think your friends will take kindly to seein' me around again."

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

Marilyn furrowed her brow a little. What could a man like Mr Osborn have possibly seen? She looked ahead, and down the road, where not too far the house loomed large, almost over the whole town. Modest it most certainly was not, but it was tasteful, which was more than could be said for plenty of other homes Marilyn had seen.

“That might be a good idea, I would hate for you to get in trouble because of me.” She sighed a little, a pang resounding in her heart at how unfair that was for Mr Osborn, who had been nothing but kind to her from day one when she stumbled across him. Loneliness began it’s slow creep over her, as it liked to do.

[au-everett]

Marilyn gripped Mr Osborne's forearm and tried to push him away, breath hitching a little. She tilted her head back a little to look up at Mr Osborne, eyes wide and nervous as she bit her bottom lip. "Y-You're really strong." She said softly.

Everett felt the pressure against his elbow and let her push his arm enough to give her room to move.

"Sorry sweetheart. You can slip out from my arm now," he murmured. "Just drop down and duck out of my hold."

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

Marilyn did as she was told, gracefully ducking and sliding out of Mr Osborn's grip, pivoting to look back at him. Her heart was beating rapidly at being so close to him, and she fought back a blush. "That was...very educational Mr Osborn." She said, a little breathlessly. "Th-thank you."

[au-everett]

"Any time, sweetheart." He pat her head gently. "The best thing to do is scream and run away, of course."

Holding back his urge to give her a kiss on her pretty blushing cheek, Everett smiled. "Let's pack up and get goin'. Don't want to keep your folks waiting."

He leaned in to whisper in her ear, close enough that his breath moved her strands of hair. "And don't let'em know about our little lesson, alright?" Pulling back, he gave a conspiratorial wink before going to pack up.

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

Marilyn smiled wider and more brightly at the praise. She was about to speak, but froze when Mr Osborn moved closer, and whispered to her. Unable to get even a single word out, she nervously nodded, fidgeting a little with her fingers even as she mounted Gladys. “They-they won’t hear about it Mr Osborn.” She promised, finally finding her words again. “And...well, I mean, if you’re ever in town again....and if it wouldn’t be too much trouble...f-feel free to drop by and say hello! It’ll be nice to see you without having to track you down.” She smiled shyly, hoping that he would take her suggestion into consideration.

[au-everett]

He smiled and nodded. "I'd love to visit, Ms. Taylor, if your keepers don't chase me out first."

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

“Don’t worry, hopefully next time I’ll be conscious enough to stop that.” She giggled a little at her joke, genuinely surprised that Mr Osborn was willing to take her up on her offer. “But they really do mean well, I promise. They’ve known me since I was a child, and it can be hard not to feel strongly about someone when you’ve known them for that long.”

[au-everett]

Everett nodded, smiling softly at her little giggle. She was awfully cute, too innocent for his world.

But if he couldn't resist the chance to see her again. He wondered about the other man, however.

"So, uh, can you tell me more about them? All I know is that one seems like he works for your house, and the other...?" He trailed off, letting her finish his thought.

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

"Victor is the head butler and he's in charge of the rest of the staff." Marilyn explained. "He's very strict and has very high standards, but that comes with the job. The other one is Ilya." Marilyn paused and sighed, the way one would when talking about a child that was a handful. "We've been friends since we were children, and he's very...doting." She was being diplomatic, not wanting Mr Osborn to get an unfavourable impression of Ilya. "I think I indulged him too much when we were younger, because it's escalated over the years." She sighed. "But he's really very sweet, I couldn't wish for a better friend."

[au-everett]

Everett noted how she spoke of the two men.

"Just a friend?" he asked. "He seems to care for you more than that."

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

“No Mr Osborn, I assure you, Ilya only sees me as a friend. Like I said, he’s just very doting.” She was used to people doting the platonicness of her friendship with Ilya, at least on his part, so it no longer bothered her. “He’s like an overly excitable puppy, that’s all.”

[au-everett]

Everett nodded, wanting to believe her, but he got the distinct feeling that she was misunderstanding the man's feelings. He felt a little sorry for him after hearing this, but only a little bit.

"Well, alright, if you say so," he said, trying to hide the doubt he felt. If this was true, then he had a chance. Time to put on the ol' Osborn charm.

As they rode back the town where they had first met, Everett tried to regale her with some of the wilder tales he had heard from his travels, like the man who wore a dress and led a circus, or the woman who dressed up as a man and led a gang out west.

By the time the town was within sight, the sun was starting its descent below the mountains.

"I didn't bore you, did I?"

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

Marilyn remained on the edge of her seat-well, saddle-as Mr Osborn told her about his adventures. She couldn’t help but giggle at some parts, while at others she held her breath in disbelief. She couldn’t help but gaze at him in awe.

“Not at all!” She assured him quickly. “How could anyone be bored when hearing all of that? You’ve lived a very full life Mr Osborn.” She couldn’t help but feel jealous. She had never seen any kind of adventure, least of all the kind he had. She felt woefully boring and inadequate and it made her look down. “You’ve certainly seen more than I have.” She sighed, wistfully.

[au-everett]

Marilyn gripped Mr Osborne's forearm and tried to push him away, breath hitching a little. She tilted her head back a little to look up at Mr Osborne, eyes wide and nervous as she bit her bottom lip. "Y-You're really strong." She said softly.

Everett felt the pressure against his elbow and let her push his arm enough to give her room to move.

"Sorry sweetheart. You can slip out from my arm now," he murmured. "Just drop down and duck out of my hold."

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

Marilyn did as she was told, gracefully ducking and sliding out of Mr Osborn's grip, pivoting to look back at him. Her heart was beating rapidly at being so close to him, and she fought back a blush. "That was...very educational Mr Osborn." She said, a little breathlessly. "Th-thank you."

[au-everett]

"Any time, sweetheart." He pat her head gently. "The best thing to do is scream and run away, of course."

Holding back his urge to give her a kiss on her pretty blushing cheek, Everett smiled. "Let's pack up and get goin'. Don't want to keep your folks waiting."

He leaned in to whisper in her ear, close enough that his breath moved her strands of hair. "And don't let'em know about our little lesson, alright?" Pulling back, he gave a conspiratorial wink before going to pack up.

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

Marilyn smiled wider and more brightly at the praise. She was about to speak, but froze when Mr Osborn moved closer, and whispered to her. Unable to get even a single word out, she nervously nodded, fidgeting a little with her fingers even as she mounted Gladys. “They-they won’t hear about it Mr Osborn.” She promised, finally finding her words again. “And...well, I mean, if you’re ever in town again....and if it wouldn’t be too much trouble...f-feel free to drop by and say hello! It’ll be nice to see you without having to track you down.” She smiled shyly, hoping that he would take her suggestion into consideration.

[au-everett]

He smiled and nodded. "I'd love to visit, Ms. Taylor, if your keepers don't chase me out first."

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

“Don’t worry, hopefully next time I’ll be conscious enough to stop that.” She giggled a little at her joke, genuinely surprised that Mr Osborn was willing to take her up on her offer. “But they really do mean well, I promise. They’ve known me since I was a child, and it can be hard not to feel strongly about someone when you’ve known them for that long.”

[au-everett]

Everett nodded, smiling softly at her little giggle. She was awfully cute, too innocent for his world.

But if he couldn't resist the chance to see her again. He wondered about the other man, however.

"So, uh, can you tell me more about them? All I know is that one seems like he works for your house, and the other...?" He trailed off, letting her finish his thought.

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

"Victor is the head butler and he's in charge of the rest of the staff." Marilyn explained. "He's very strict and has very high standards, but that comes with the job. The other one is Ilya." Marilyn paused and sighed, the way one would when talking about a child that was a handful. "We've been friends since we were children, and he's very...doting." She was being diplomatic, not wanting Mr Osborn to get an unfavourable impression of Ilya. "I think I indulged him too much when we were younger, because it's escalated over the years." She sighed. "But he's really very sweet, I couldn't wish for a better friend."

[au-everett]

Everett noted how she spoke of the two men.

"Just a friend?" he asked. "He seems to care for you more than that."

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

“No Mr Osborn, I assure you, Ilya only sees me as a friend. Like I said, he’s just very doting.” She was used to people doting the platonicness of her friendship with Ilya, at least on his part, so it no longer bothered her. “He’s like an overly excitable puppy, that’s all.”

[au-everett]

Marilyn gripped Mr Osborne's forearm and tried to push him away, breath hitching a little. She tilted her head back a little to look up at Mr Osborne, eyes wide and nervous as she bit her bottom lip. "Y-You're really strong." She said softly.

Everett felt the pressure against his elbow and let her push his arm enough to give her room to move.

"Sorry sweetheart. You can slip out from my arm now," he murmured. "Just drop down and duck out of my hold."

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

Marilyn did as she was told, gracefully ducking and sliding out of Mr Osborn's grip, pivoting to look back at him. Her heart was beating rapidly at being so close to him, and she fought back a blush. "That was...very educational Mr Osborn." She said, a little breathlessly. "Th-thank you."

[au-everett]

"Any time, sweetheart." He pat her head gently. "The best thing to do is scream and run away, of course."

Holding back his urge to give her a kiss on her pretty blushing cheek, Everett smiled. "Let's pack up and get goin'. Don't want to keep your folks waiting."

He leaned in to whisper in her ear, close enough that his breath moved her strands of hair. "And don't let'em know about our little lesson, alright?" Pulling back, he gave a conspiratorial wink before going to pack up.

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

Marilyn smiled wider and more brightly at the praise. She was about to speak, but froze when Mr Osborn moved closer, and whispered to her. Unable to get even a single word out, she nervously nodded, fidgeting a little with her fingers even as she mounted Gladys. “They-they won’t hear about it Mr Osborn.” She promised, finally finding her words again. “And...well, I mean, if you’re ever in town again....and if it wouldn’t be too much trouble...f-feel free to drop by and say hello! It’ll be nice to see you without having to track you down.” She smiled shyly, hoping that he would take her suggestion into consideration.

[au-everett]

He smiled and nodded. "I'd love to visit, Ms. Taylor, if your keepers don't chase me out first."

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

“Don’t worry, hopefully next time I’ll be conscious enough to stop that.” She giggled a little at her joke, genuinely surprised that Mr Osborn was willing to take her up on her offer. “But they really do mean well, I promise. They’ve known me since I was a child, and it can be hard not to feel strongly about someone when you’ve known them for that long.”

[au-everett]

Everett nodded, smiling softly at her little giggle. She was awfully cute, too innocent for his world.

But if he couldn't resist the chance to see her again. He wondered about the other man, however.

"So, uh, can you tell me more about them? All I know is that one seems like he works for your house, and the other...?" He trailed off, letting her finish his thought.

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

"Victor is the head butler and he's in charge of the rest of the staff." Marilyn explained. "He's very strict and has very high standards, but that comes with the job. The other one is Ilya." Marilyn paused and sighed, the way one would when talking about a child that was a handful. "We've been friends since we were children, and he's very...doting." She was being diplomatic, not wanting Mr Osborn to get an unfavourable impression of Ilya. "I think I indulged him too much when we were younger, because it's escalated over the years." She sighed. "But he's really very sweet, I couldn't wish for a better friend."

[au-everett]

Marilyn gripped Mr Osborne's forearm and tried to push him away, breath hitching a little. She tilted her head back a little to look up at Mr Osborne, eyes wide and nervous as she bit her bottom lip. "Y-You're really strong." She said softly.

Everett felt the pressure against his elbow and let her push his arm enough to give her room to move.

"Sorry sweetheart. You can slip out from my arm now," he murmured. "Just drop down and duck out of my hold."

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

Marilyn did as she was told, gracefully ducking and sliding out of Mr Osborn's grip, pivoting to look back at him. Her heart was beating rapidly at being so close to him, and she fought back a blush. "That was...very educational Mr Osborn." She said, a little breathlessly. "Th-thank you."

[au-everett]

"Any time, sweetheart." He pat her head gently. "The best thing to do is scream and run away, of course."

Holding back his urge to give her a kiss on her pretty blushing cheek, Everett smiled. "Let's pack up and get goin'. Don't want to keep your folks waiting."

He leaned in to whisper in her ear, close enough that his breath moved her strands of hair. "And don't let'em know about our little lesson, alright?" Pulling back, he gave a conspiratorial wink before going to pack up.

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

Marilyn smiled wider and more brightly at the praise. She was about to speak, but froze when Mr Osborn moved closer, and whispered to her. Unable to get even a single word out, she nervously nodded, fidgeting a little with her fingers even as she mounted Gladys. “They-they won’t hear about it Mr Osborn.” She promised, finally finding her words again. “And...well, I mean, if you’re ever in town again....and if it wouldn’t be too much trouble...f-feel free to drop by and say hello! It’ll be nice to see you without having to track you down.” She smiled shyly, hoping that he would take her suggestion into consideration.

[au-everett]

He smiled and nodded. "I'd love to visit, Ms. Taylor, if your keepers don't chase me out first."

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

“Don’t worry, hopefully next time I’ll be conscious enough to stop that.” She giggled a little at her joke, genuinely surprised that Mr Osborn was willing to take her up on her offer. “But they really do mean well, I promise. They’ve known me since I was a child, and it can be hard not to feel strongly about someone when you’ve known them for that long.”

[au-everett]

Marilyn gripped Mr Osborne's forearm and tried to push him away, breath hitching a little. She tilted her head back a little to look up at Mr Osborne, eyes wide and nervous as she bit her bottom lip. "Y-You're really strong." She said softly.

Everett felt the pressure against his elbow and let her push his arm enough to give her room to move.

"Sorry sweetheart. You can slip out from my arm now," he murmured. "Just drop down and duck out of my hold."

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

Marilyn did as she was told, gracefully ducking and sliding out of Mr Osborn's grip, pivoting to look back at him. Her heart was beating rapidly at being so close to him, and she fought back a blush. "That was...very educational Mr Osborn." She said, a little breathlessly. "Th-thank you."

[au-everett]

"Any time, sweetheart." He pat her head gently. "The best thing to do is scream and run away, of course."

Holding back his urge to give her a kiss on her pretty blushing cheek, Everett smiled. "Let's pack up and get goin'. Don't want to keep your folks waiting."

He leaned in to whisper in her ear, close enough that his breath moved her strands of hair. "And don't let'em know about our little lesson, alright?" Pulling back, he gave a conspiratorial wink before going to pack up.

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

Marilyn smiled wider and more brightly at the praise. She was about to speak, but froze when Mr Osborn moved closer, and whispered to her. Unable to get even a single word out, she nervously nodded, fidgeting a little with her fingers even as she mounted Gladys. “They-they won’t hear about it Mr Osborn.” She promised, finally finding her words again. “And...well, I mean, if you’re ever in town again....and if it wouldn’t be too much trouble...f-feel free to drop by and say hello! It’ll be nice to see you without having to track you down.” She smiled shyly, hoping that he would take her suggestion into consideration.

[au-everett]

Marilyn gripped Mr Osborne's forearm and tried to push him away, breath hitching a little. She tilted her head back a little to look up at Mr Osborne, eyes wide and nervous as she bit her bottom lip. "Y-You're really strong." She said softly.

Everett felt the pressure against his elbow and let her push his arm enough to give her room to move.

"Sorry sweetheart. You can slip out from my arm now," he murmured. "Just drop down and duck out of my hold."

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

Marilyn did as she was told, gracefully ducking and sliding out of Mr Osborn's grip, pivoting to look back at him. Her heart was beating rapidly at being so close to him, and she fought back a blush. "That was...very educational Mr Osborn." She said, a little breathlessly. "Th-thank you."

[au-everett]

It had taken a few days of asking around, but eventually Marilyn was able to find the man who had saved her, and she was determined to repay him somehow. She waved at him shyly, smiling widely. "Hello sir! Do you remember me? You helped me back to town the other day." She eased Gladys, who seemed ambivalent about the whole thing, to a stop, and elegantly dismounted. "I'm Marilyn Taylor?"

Everett was very surprised to see Marilyn again, especially since they were now a full town away from where he had last met her.

"Of course I remember you, Ms. Taylor." He looked around her, trying to spot her wards. "Did you come here alone?"

He wasn't nervous, no. But he was a little cautious when it came to other men who were protective of ladies like her. He couldn't deny his own feral need to protect when seeing her, so he understood how her... Caretakers? How they might feel.

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

“Yes, I am.” Marilyn blushed a little, she could only imagine how Victor and Ilya treated Everett once she passed out. “I hope I’m not interrupting anything, I just wanted to thank you personally.” She smiled and reached into her saddle bag, pulling out a very fine, and expensive, bottle of whiskey. “You were very kind the other day, and I wanted to repay you, and apologise for being so much trouble, I can only imagine you had far better things to do than look after a strange girl.”

[au-everett]

Everett's eyes widened at the bottle of whiskey being offered to him. His immediate urge is to take it and leave, but he had a sudden mental image of his sister whacking him on the back of the head and telling her to refuse it and take the lady home.

He sighed heavily.

"Uh, you didn't have to do that sweetheart," he said, taking the bottle of whiskey anyway. "Let me take you back, make sure you're alright. We're quite a ways away from where you were staying before, unless you've moved elsewhere?"

Part of him wanted to spend a little time with her, but he didn't want to deal with the consequences, and she didn't seem like the type to be interested in certain... activities.

Too innocent. Too much of a temptation. Better to take her home and forget all about those pretty eyes looking up at him.

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

Marilyn blushed profusely when Mr Osborn called her ‘sweetheart’ and she quickly looked away, trying to hide it. “Y-You’re welcome.” She stuttered, swallowing a little. She was used to that kind of treatment from Ilya, not handsome strangers. ‘Stop, don’t even think about it.’ She looked back at Mr Osborn and her smile fell a little, her embarrassment growing. “I...OK.” She said softly. “I’m sorry if I bothered you Mr Osborn, Victor said that you didn’t leave your name or a forwarding address and I wanted to thank you properly, so I had to ask around, I hope that’s alright.”

As if sensing her owner’s embarrassment and nervousness, Gladys approached, gently nudging Marilyn. She smiled and patted the mare’s head. “And I haven’t moved, do you remember the way?”

[au-everett]

"Sure, I remember. I'll escort you back, but you best explain that you came to me if your own accord. I don't want no trouble."

He eyed her for a moment. "I don't recall givin' you my last name, little lady. But I did leave it with Victor. If not from him, how'd you find out?"

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

"Oh. You did?" Marilyn frowned a little, clearly confused. Victor had said that Mr Osborn had just left, without a further word. "I asked the sheriff and a few others, and they were able to point me here." She blushed again, realising how that must've sounded. "I-I hope you don't mind that. Like I said, I wanted to see you and thank you properly. It seemed like the right thing to do."

[au-everett]

Everett smiled. "I don't mind, just... Be careful of asking for me. I'm... not exactly a good man." He stepped closer to her, trapping her between him and her horse. "I'll take you home, but promise me you'll listen and run away if I tell you to."

His voice had gotten low and rough, his cornflower blue eyes looking intently at Ms Taylor.

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

Marilyn took a step back, staring up at Mr Osborn. Her heart began to beat faster, and she took in more of his, rather handsome, features. She blinked, unused to this kind of situation, and thus unprepared.

Gladys however, was far more decisive. She huffed, moving between Marilyn and Everett. She made a sound like a snarl, flicking Everett with her tail.

"Gladys!" Marilyn grabbed the reins and pulled the mare back, face flushed. "S-Sorry." She stammered. "She, um, is rather...protective." Marilyn patted Gladys's neck and collected herself. She looked back at Mr Osborn and tried to smile reassuringly, but it didn't quite meet her eyes. She cleared her throat. "I-I promise." She said. "But I'm afraid I must disagree about you not being good. I don't think a man who wasn't good would've helped me like you did." She smiled shyly, and this time her eyes were warm, almost fond, as she tried to calm her heart.

[au-everett]

Oh lord, she's too cute, Everett thought as he stepped back from her horse's attempt to protect her owner.

"Believe what you want, just tellin' it like it is," he said as he started to walk back to his horse, hitched at the saloon. He glanced behind him to see if she was following.

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

Marilyn held onto Gladys’s reins and patted her neck as she followed Mr Osborn. A part of her felt a little apprehensive, wondering if he had been exaggerating with his warning, or if he was truly worried about something happening.

“How...how was Victor when you spoke to him?” She asked. She was still a little confused as to why he had lied about Mr Osborn not giving his name, although she felt like she had an idea. “He wasn’t unkind was he? I’m sorry if he was.”

[au-everett]

Everett shrugged. "He couldn't wait to get rid of me," he said nonchalantly. "To be fair, if I was in charge of a cute li'l thing like you, I'd snarl at every man that walked by too."

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

Marilyn’s eyes widened and her face went as red as a ripe cherry, and she looked down quickly, praying that he hadn’t seen it. ‘He’s just being kind.’ She told herself sternly. ‘Don’t be such a fool. You barely know him.’ She cleared her throat. “Regardless, I am sorry. He...he feels a lot of responsibility for me...he knew my momma, and practically watched me grow up...” A fond smile makes it way onto her still blushing face. “He’s the closest thing I have to a father...” She trailed off, thinking back to her childhood. Even then Victor had been an ever constant presence, a shadow, watching over her. “But still, that doesn’t excuse any rudeness on his part. Was Ilya any better?”

[au-everett]

Everett thought for a moment; she must be talking about the other man. "The blonde man? He didn't say much to me after I handed you off to him."

He shrugged again. "He weren't rude, but not friendly either. I don't blame'em, I'm just a stranger."

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

Marilyn hummed. "He tends to fret over me a lot. They both do really." She smiled a little. "But I'm sure he was very grateful, even if he didn't express it properly." He hadn't said anything to that affect, at least not around her, but regardless Marilyn was certain that he was grateful to Mr Osborn. "Honestly I'm surprised those two didn't send out an entire search party, with hunting dogs and all." She couldn't help but giggle. "The way those two go on, anyone would think I'm a little girl rather than a woman." But then, she could hardly blame them. They had known her for years, practically her whole life, it was normal for them to be so protective. Even if it was a tad stifling at times.

[au-everett]

Everett barely stopped himself from rolling his eyes. "Men who don't teach their women how to defend themselves just want to control them," he muttered.

He looked back at her, thoughtful.

"Why don't I teach you how to get away from a man, if he ever tries anything. That way they don't have to worry about you so much."

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

Marilyn stared at Mr Osborn, genuinely surprised at his offer. “Oh! I-um, I...” She trailed off, not sure how to respond to his offer. She had never thought about learning how to protect herself, it had never really seemed important. But the idea was certainly attractive, it’s own way. It would be nice to be able to go places unchaperoned, and not be so afraid all the time. But then...

“I don’t want to be bother or a burden to you.” She said gently. “They mean well, really. They just...worry a lot. Besides, I don’t know if I would be any good.” She looked down, a little embarrassed. “I...I would rather not waste your time Mr Osborn.”

[au-everett]

"Won't be a waste of time, as long as you remember what I teach you. Let's get you back home. We'll stop somewhere for a break and I can teach you some tricks."

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

Marilyn carefully mounted Gladys, thinking over Mr Osborn’s offer. She was very much intimidated by the idea, after all any number of things could go wrong. But she found her desire to learn starting to grow. If she could look after herself, it would grant her greater freedom, possibly even more confidence. And if it meant she could spend more time with Mr Osborn... “Well, I suppose we can at least try.” She said finally. “No harm in that.”

[au-everett]

Everett smiled as he mounted his horse and led them out of town towards her home town. He made sure to walk his horse beside hers, keeping an eye on her condition.

As midday approached, Everett led them off the path towards a copse of trees on a riverbank.

"We'll stop here and take a break until the sun passes overhead."

He pulled his bedroll off his horse and laid it down on some flat ground under a tree. Then he walked over to Marilyn and held his hands out to her.

"Lemme help you down."

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

Marilyn quietly followed Mr Osborn’s lead, glancing at him on occasion. She felt so...daring, going off and doing something like this with a man she barely knew. But she had suddenly been gripped by bravery and spontaniety, and she decided to let it lead her where it may.

A little surprised at Mr Osborn’s offer, Marilyn nonetheless took his hands and gently dismounted from Gladys, who still looked very disapproving. “I-I’m very new to this.” She said nervously. “I mean, I’ve never done anything like this before, not in the slightest, so...so please forgive me if I’m a little slow.”

[au-everett]

She's so light, he thought to himself as he helped her down. Thinking about what moves he could teach her, he immediately thought of a couple that she might be able to do.

But first, a break. Leading her to the bedroll, he sat down and pulled out some bread and cheese. Cutting a slice of each for her, he handed her a portion before cutting some off for himself.

"Best to get some food and water in you now while we're not movin'. Then I'll have you practice a couple of things."

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

Marilyn gently sat across from Mr Osborn, legs bent at the knee and lying beside her. "Oh, th-thank you." She said softly, taking the offered food. She nibbled a little at a corner, like a mouse would. She kept glancing up at Mr Osborn, now better able to take in his features, all of which were alarmingly handsome, to the point where she got self conscious just staring at him and she quickly looked away. "I-I hope you find me a...satisfactory student." She took another small bite of the cheese and bread.

[au-everett]

"I'm sure you'll be fine, sweetheart," he replied as he munched on a bread roll. He wondered though, if she'd be able to handle being grabbed from behind... He wondered if he would be able to handle it.

"First thing to keep in mind is to use your elbows to hit someone, not your fist. If you don't mind me sayin', I don't think you have the strength to throw a proper punch."

He drank some water from his canteen and passed it over to Marilyn. "Water?"

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

Marilyn felt her face heat up at being called ‘sweetheart’, feeling rather flustered, and doing her best not to show it. “Well you’re not wrong.” She sheepishly held up her hands. “These hands are better suited for needlework and music than fighting.” She giggled a little, glancing down at Mr Osborn’s hands. His gloves covered most of them, leaving only his fingers bare, and allowing Marilyn’s mind to wander, thinking about how the skin of his hands looked in comparison to hers. She imagined that they were far tougher than hers, her few callouses being rather small and the result of hours of practice at things that, while fun, weren’t terribly practical in the grand scheme of things.

She looked down at the canteen and hesitated for a second before delicately taking it. “Thank you Mr Osborn.” She sipped from it delicately, lips only just brushing against the nozzle, before handing it back.

[au-everett]

Watching her drink like a little bird, he had the sudden mental image of holding her in his arms, petting her head, and then lifting her up and carrying her away...

He shook his head of the thought as he took the canteen back. Taking another drink, the thought that they had just shared an indirect kiss was not lost on him.

Putting the thought away with the canteen, he finished his food and waited for her to finish before standing.

"You ready for your first lesson?"

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

Marilyn quickly rose to her feet, smoothing out her dress and making sure she still looked presentable. “Y-Yes Mr Osborn sir!” She cleared her throat and put her hands behind herself, to better hide her fidgeting. “W-What are we going to do? And would you rather I called you Mr Osborn or sir?”

[au-everett]

Everett swallowed at the sweet sound of her voice calling her 'sir'. Looking away and taking a breath to calm his raging hormones, he turned back to her and smiled. "Just call me Everett, makes me feel less old."

Walking around to stand behind her, he put his hands lightly on her shoulders. Taking a step forward, he murmured in her ear. "I was thinking the first lesson could be how to get out of a choke hold, but I'm gonna have to put my arms around you. Is that alright?"

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

Mr Osborn's reaction to her question didn't go unnoticed by Marilyn, and it left her somewhat confused. Why did he react like that? Her thoughts quickly left her when Mr Osborn's hands settled on her shoulders, and she nearly shivered when he whispered in her ear. For a few moments her mind was completely empty, void of any thoughts.

She eventually snapped out of it and swallowed, exhaling shakily. "S-Sure." She stammered. "You...you do whatever you think is best."

[au-everett]

Everett grinned, his face close enough to her ear that she probably felt his lips curving. Her response was so utterly irresistible that couldn't help himself. He pulled her against him suddenly and wrapped an arm around her neck, gently as to not actually choke her. Her small body against his made his heart pound with possessive desire, but he controlled himself.... For now.

"Turn your head to the side and try to slip out from under my arm," he ordered.

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

Marilyn gasped at the sudden feeling of of Mr Osborn's arm around her neck, and even though she knew she wasn't really in any danger, she still let out a slight whimper. She turned her head and hesitantly grabbed Mr Osborn's arm. "Is-is this right?"

[au-everett]

"That's right, now tuck your chin in and grab my elbow with both your hands, and press it towards you."

Everett shifted his legs; her small whimper had made him feeling a little hotter than he should have.

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

Still a little hesitant, Marilyn did as she was told, bringing her hands to his elbow, although not keeping a very tight grip, and tucking in her chin. A shiver ran down her spine and she felt her heart race at being so close to Mr Osborne. She inhaled deeply.

[au-everett]

It had taken a few days of asking around, but eventually Marilyn was able to find the man who had saved her, and she was determined to repay him somehow. She waved at him shyly, smiling widely. "Hello sir! Do you remember me? You helped me back to town the other day." She eased Gladys, who seemed ambivalent about the whole thing, to a stop, and elegantly dismounted. "I'm Marilyn Taylor?"

Everett was very surprised to see Marilyn again, especially since they were now a full town away from where he had last met her.

"Of course I remember you, Ms. Taylor." He looked around her, trying to spot her wards. "Did you come here alone?"

He wasn't nervous, no. But he was a little cautious when it came to other men who were protective of ladies like her. He couldn't deny his own feral need to protect when seeing her, so he understood how her... Caretakers? How they might feel.

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

“Yes, I am.” Marilyn blushed a little, she could only imagine how Victor and Ilya treated Everett once she passed out. “I hope I’m not interrupting anything, I just wanted to thank you personally.” She smiled and reached into her saddle bag, pulling out a very fine, and expensive, bottle of whiskey. “You were very kind the other day, and I wanted to repay you, and apologise for being so much trouble, I can only imagine you had far better things to do than look after a strange girl.”

[au-everett]

Everett's eyes widened at the bottle of whiskey being offered to him. His immediate urge is to take it and leave, but he had a sudden mental image of his sister whacking him on the back of the head and telling her to refuse it and take the lady home.

He sighed heavily.

"Uh, you didn't have to do that sweetheart," he said, taking the bottle of whiskey anyway. "Let me take you back, make sure you're alright. We're quite a ways away from where you were staying before, unless you've moved elsewhere?"

Part of him wanted to spend a little time with her, but he didn't want to deal with the consequences, and she didn't seem like the type to be interested in certain... activities.

Too innocent. Too much of a temptation. Better to take her home and forget all about those pretty eyes looking up at him.

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

Marilyn blushed profusely when Mr Osborn called her ‘sweetheart’ and she quickly looked away, trying to hide it. “Y-You’re welcome.” She stuttered, swallowing a little. She was used to that kind of treatment from Ilya, not handsome strangers. ‘Stop, don’t even think about it.’ She looked back at Mr Osborn and her smile fell a little, her embarrassment growing. “I...OK.” She said softly. “I’m sorry if I bothered you Mr Osborn, Victor said that you didn’t leave your name or a forwarding address and I wanted to thank you properly, so I had to ask around, I hope that’s alright.”

As if sensing her owner’s embarrassment and nervousness, Gladys approached, gently nudging Marilyn. She smiled and patted the mare’s head. “And I haven’t moved, do you remember the way?”

[au-everett]

"Sure, I remember. I'll escort you back, but you best explain that you came to me if your own accord. I don't want no trouble."

He eyed her for a moment. "I don't recall givin' you my last name, little lady. But I did leave it with Victor. If not from him, how'd you find out?"

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

"Oh. You did?" Marilyn frowned a little, clearly confused. Victor had said that Mr Osborn had just left, without a further word. "I asked the sheriff and a few others, and they were able to point me here." She blushed again, realising how that must've sounded. "I-I hope you don't mind that. Like I said, I wanted to see you and thank you properly. It seemed like the right thing to do."

[au-everett]

Everett smiled. "I don't mind, just... Be careful of asking for me. I'm... not exactly a good man." He stepped closer to her, trapping her between him and her horse. "I'll take you home, but promise me you'll listen and run away if I tell you to."

His voice had gotten low and rough, his cornflower blue eyes looking intently at Ms Taylor.

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

Marilyn took a step back, staring up at Mr Osborn. Her heart began to beat faster, and she took in more of his, rather handsome, features. She blinked, unused to this kind of situation, and thus unprepared.

Gladys however, was far more decisive. She huffed, moving between Marilyn and Everett. She made a sound like a snarl, flicking Everett with her tail.

"Gladys!" Marilyn grabbed the reins and pulled the mare back, face flushed. "S-Sorry." She stammered. "She, um, is rather...protective." Marilyn patted Gladys's neck and collected herself. She looked back at Mr Osborn and tried to smile reassuringly, but it didn't quite meet her eyes. She cleared her throat. "I-I promise." She said. "But I'm afraid I must disagree about you not being good. I don't think a man who wasn't good would've helped me like you did." She smiled shyly, and this time her eyes were warm, almost fond, as she tried to calm her heart.

[au-everett]

Oh lord, she's too cute, Everett thought as he stepped back from her horse's attempt to protect her owner.

"Believe what you want, just tellin' it like it is," he said as he started to walk back to his horse, hitched at the saloon. He glanced behind him to see if she was following.

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

Marilyn held onto Gladys’s reins and patted her neck as she followed Mr Osborn. A part of her felt a little apprehensive, wondering if he had been exaggerating with his warning, or if he was truly worried about something happening.

“How...how was Victor when you spoke to him?” She asked. She was still a little confused as to why he had lied about Mr Osborn not giving his name, although she felt like she had an idea. “He wasn’t unkind was he? I’m sorry if he was.”

[au-everett]

Everett shrugged. "He couldn't wait to get rid of me," he said nonchalantly. "To be fair, if I was in charge of a cute li'l thing like you, I'd snarl at every man that walked by too."

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

Marilyn’s eyes widened and her face went as red as a ripe cherry, and she looked down quickly, praying that he hadn’t seen it. ‘He’s just being kind.’ She told herself sternly. ‘Don’t be such a fool. You barely know him.’ She cleared her throat. “Regardless, I am sorry. He...he feels a lot of responsibility for me...he knew my momma, and practically watched me grow up...” A fond smile makes it way onto her still blushing face. “He’s the closest thing I have to a father...” She trailed off, thinking back to her childhood. Even then Victor had been an ever constant presence, a shadow, watching over her. “But still, that doesn’t excuse any rudeness on his part. Was Ilya any better?”

[au-everett]

Everett thought for a moment; she must be talking about the other man. "The blonde man? He didn't say much to me after I handed you off to him."

He shrugged again. "He weren't rude, but not friendly either. I don't blame'em, I'm just a stranger."

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

Marilyn hummed. "He tends to fret over me a lot. They both do really." She smiled a little. "But I'm sure he was very grateful, even if he didn't express it properly." He hadn't said anything to that affect, at least not around her, but regardless Marilyn was certain that he was grateful to Mr Osborn. "Honestly I'm surprised those two didn't send out an entire search party, with hunting dogs and all." She couldn't help but giggle. "The way those two go on, anyone would think I'm a little girl rather than a woman." But then, she could hardly blame them. They had known her for years, practically her whole life, it was normal for them to be so protective. Even if it was a tad stifling at times.

[au-everett]

Everett barely stopped himself from rolling his eyes. "Men who don't teach their women how to defend themselves just want to control them," he muttered.

He looked back at her, thoughtful.

"Why don't I teach you how to get away from a man, if he ever tries anything. That way they don't have to worry about you so much."

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

Marilyn stared at Mr Osborn, genuinely surprised at his offer. “Oh! I-um, I...” She trailed off, not sure how to respond to his offer. She had never thought about learning how to protect herself, it had never really seemed important. But the idea was certainly attractive, it’s own way. It would be nice to be able to go places unchaperoned, and not be so afraid all the time. But then...

“I don’t want to be bother or a burden to you.” She said gently. “They mean well, really. They just...worry a lot. Besides, I don’t know if I would be any good.” She looked down, a little embarrassed. “I...I would rather not waste your time Mr Osborn.”

[au-everett]

"Won't be a waste of time, as long as you remember what I teach you. Let's get you back home. We'll stop somewhere for a break and I can teach you some tricks."

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

Marilyn carefully mounted Gladys, thinking over Mr Osborn’s offer. She was very much intimidated by the idea, after all any number of things could go wrong. But she found her desire to learn starting to grow. If she could look after herself, it would grant her greater freedom, possibly even more confidence. And if it meant she could spend more time with Mr Osborn... “Well, I suppose we can at least try.” She said finally. “No harm in that.”

[au-everett]

Everett smiled as he mounted his horse and led them out of town towards her home town. He made sure to walk his horse beside hers, keeping an eye on her condition.

As midday approached, Everett led them off the path towards a copse of trees on a riverbank.

"We'll stop here and take a break until the sun passes overhead."

He pulled his bedroll off his horse and laid it down on some flat ground under a tree. Then he walked over to Marilyn and held his hands out to her.

"Lemme help you down."

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

Marilyn quietly followed Mr Osborn’s lead, glancing at him on occasion. She felt so...daring, going off and doing something like this with a man she barely knew. But she had suddenly been gripped by bravery and spontaniety, and she decided to let it lead her where it may.

A little surprised at Mr Osborn’s offer, Marilyn nonetheless took his hands and gently dismounted from Gladys, who still looked very disapproving. “I-I’m very new to this.” She said nervously. “I mean, I’ve never done anything like this before, not in the slightest, so...so please forgive me if I’m a little slow.”

[au-everett]

She's so light, he thought to himself as he helped her down. Thinking about what moves he could teach her, he immediately thought of a couple that she might be able to do.

But first, a break. Leading her to the bedroll, he sat down and pulled out some bread and cheese. Cutting a slice of each for her, he handed her a portion before cutting some off for himself.

"Best to get some food and water in you now while we're not movin'. Then I'll have you practice a couple of things."

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

Marilyn gently sat across from Mr Osborn, legs bent at the knee and lying beside her. "Oh, th-thank you." She said softly, taking the offered food. She nibbled a little at a corner, like a mouse would. She kept glancing up at Mr Osborn, now better able to take in his features, all of which were alarmingly handsome, to the point where she got self conscious just staring at him and she quickly looked away. "I-I hope you find me a...satisfactory student." She took another small bite of the cheese and bread.

[au-everett]

"I'm sure you'll be fine, sweetheart," he replied as he munched on a bread roll. He wondered though, if she'd be able to handle being grabbed from behind... He wondered if he would be able to handle it.

"First thing to keep in mind is to use your elbows to hit someone, not your fist. If you don't mind me sayin', I don't think you have the strength to throw a proper punch."

He drank some water from his canteen and passed it over to Marilyn. "Water?"

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

Marilyn felt her face heat up at being called ‘sweetheart’, feeling rather flustered, and doing her best not to show it. “Well you’re not wrong.” She sheepishly held up her hands. “These hands are better suited for needlework and music than fighting.” She giggled a little, glancing down at Mr Osborn’s hands. His gloves covered most of them, leaving only his fingers bare, and allowing Marilyn’s mind to wander, thinking about how the skin of his hands looked in comparison to hers. She imagined that they were far tougher than hers, her few callouses being rather small and the result of hours of practice at things that, while fun, weren’t terribly practical in the grand scheme of things.

She looked down at the canteen and hesitated for a second before delicately taking it. “Thank you Mr Osborn.” She sipped from it delicately, lips only just brushing against the nozzle, before handing it back.

[au-everett]

Watching her drink like a little bird, he had the sudden mental image of holding her in his arms, petting her head, and then lifting her up and carrying her away...

He shook his head of the thought as he took the canteen back. Taking another drink, the thought that they had just shared an indirect kiss was not lost on him.

Putting the thought away with the canteen, he finished his food and waited for her to finish before standing.

"You ready for your first lesson?"

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

Marilyn quickly rose to her feet, smoothing out her dress and making sure she still looked presentable. “Y-Yes Mr Osborn sir!” She cleared her throat and put her hands behind herself, to better hide her fidgeting. “W-What are we going to do? And would you rather I called you Mr Osborn or sir?”

[au-everett]

Everett swallowed at the sweet sound of her voice calling her 'sir'. Looking away and taking a breath to calm his raging hormones, he turned back to her and smiled. "Just call me Everett, makes me feel less old."

Walking around to stand behind her, he put his hands lightly on her shoulders. Taking a step forward, he murmured in her ear. "I was thinking the first lesson could be how to get out of a choke hold, but I'm gonna have to put my arms around you. Is that alright?"

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

Mr Osborn's reaction to her question didn't go unnoticed by Marilyn, and it left her somewhat confused. Why did he react like that? Her thoughts quickly left her when Mr Osborn's hands settled on her shoulders, and she nearly shivered when he whispered in her ear. For a few moments her mind was completely empty, void of any thoughts.

She eventually snapped out of it and swallowed, exhaling shakily. "S-Sure." She stammered. "You...you do whatever you think is best."

[au-everett]

Everett grinned, his face close enough to her ear that she probably felt his lips curving. Her response was so utterly irresistible that couldn't help himself. He pulled her against him suddenly and wrapped an arm around her neck, gently as to not actually choke her. Her small body against his made his heart pound with possessive desire, but he controlled himself.... For now.

"Turn your head to the side and try to slip out from under my arm," he ordered.

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

Marilyn gasped at the sudden feeling of of Mr Osborn's arm around her neck, and even though she knew she wasn't really in any danger, she still let out a slight whimper. She turned her head and hesitantly grabbed Mr Osborn's arm. "Is-is this right?"

[au-everett]

It had taken a few days of asking around, but eventually Marilyn was able to find the man who had saved her, and she was determined to repay him somehow. She waved at him shyly, smiling widely. "Hello sir! Do you remember me? You helped me back to town the other day." She eased Gladys, who seemed ambivalent about the whole thing, to a stop, and elegantly dismounted. "I'm Marilyn Taylor?"

Everett was very surprised to see Marilyn again, especially since they were now a full town away from where he had last met her.

"Of course I remember you, Ms. Taylor." He looked around her, trying to spot her wards. "Did you come here alone?"

He wasn't nervous, no. But he was a little cautious when it came to other men who were protective of ladies like her. He couldn't deny his own feral need to protect when seeing her, so he understood how her... Caretakers? How they might feel.

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

“Yes, I am.” Marilyn blushed a little, she could only imagine how Victor and Ilya treated Everett once she passed out. “I hope I’m not interrupting anything, I just wanted to thank you personally.” She smiled and reached into her saddle bag, pulling out a very fine, and expensive, bottle of whiskey. “You were very kind the other day, and I wanted to repay you, and apologise for being so much trouble, I can only imagine you had far better things to do than look after a strange girl.”

[au-everett]

Everett's eyes widened at the bottle of whiskey being offered to him. His immediate urge is to take it and leave, but he had a sudden mental image of his sister whacking him on the back of the head and telling her to refuse it and take the lady home.

He sighed heavily.

"Uh, you didn't have to do that sweetheart," he said, taking the bottle of whiskey anyway. "Let me take you back, make sure you're alright. We're quite a ways away from where you were staying before, unless you've moved elsewhere?"

Part of him wanted to spend a little time with her, but he didn't want to deal with the consequences, and she didn't seem like the type to be interested in certain... activities.

Too innocent. Too much of a temptation. Better to take her home and forget all about those pretty eyes looking up at him.

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

Marilyn blushed profusely when Mr Osborn called her ‘sweetheart’ and she quickly looked away, trying to hide it. “Y-You’re welcome.” She stuttered, swallowing a little. She was used to that kind of treatment from Ilya, not handsome strangers. ‘Stop, don’t even think about it.’ She looked back at Mr Osborn and her smile fell a little, her embarrassment growing. “I...OK.” She said softly. “I’m sorry if I bothered you Mr Osborn, Victor said that you didn’t leave your name or a forwarding address and I wanted to thank you properly, so I had to ask around, I hope that’s alright.”

As if sensing her owner’s embarrassment and nervousness, Gladys approached, gently nudging Marilyn. She smiled and patted the mare’s head. “And I haven’t moved, do you remember the way?”

[au-everett]

"Sure, I remember. I'll escort you back, but you best explain that you came to me if your own accord. I don't want no trouble."

He eyed her for a moment. "I don't recall givin' you my last name, little lady. But I did leave it with Victor. If not from him, how'd you find out?"

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

"Oh. You did?" Marilyn frowned a little, clearly confused. Victor had said that Mr Osborn had just left, without a further word. "I asked the sheriff and a few others, and they were able to point me here." She blushed again, realising how that must've sounded. "I-I hope you don't mind that. Like I said, I wanted to see you and thank you properly. It seemed like the right thing to do."

[au-everett]

Everett smiled. "I don't mind, just... Be careful of asking for me. I'm... not exactly a good man." He stepped closer to her, trapping her between him and her horse. "I'll take you home, but promise me you'll listen and run away if I tell you to."

His voice had gotten low and rough, his cornflower blue eyes looking intently at Ms Taylor.

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

Marilyn took a step back, staring up at Mr Osborn. Her heart began to beat faster, and she took in more of his, rather handsome, features. She blinked, unused to this kind of situation, and thus unprepared.

Gladys however, was far more decisive. She huffed, moving between Marilyn and Everett. She made a sound like a snarl, flicking Everett with her tail.

"Gladys!" Marilyn grabbed the reins and pulled the mare back, face flushed. "S-Sorry." She stammered. "She, um, is rather...protective." Marilyn patted Gladys's neck and collected herself. She looked back at Mr Osborn and tried to smile reassuringly, but it didn't quite meet her eyes. She cleared her throat. "I-I promise." She said. "But I'm afraid I must disagree about you not being good. I don't think a man who wasn't good would've helped me like you did." She smiled shyly, and this time her eyes were warm, almost fond, as she tried to calm her heart.

[au-everett]

Oh lord, she's too cute, Everett thought as he stepped back from her horse's attempt to protect her owner.

"Believe what you want, just tellin' it like it is," he said as he started to walk back to his horse, hitched at the saloon. He glanced behind him to see if she was following.

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

Marilyn held onto Gladys’s reins and patted her neck as she followed Mr Osborn. A part of her felt a little apprehensive, wondering if he had been exaggerating with his warning, or if he was truly worried about something happening.

“How...how was Victor when you spoke to him?” She asked. She was still a little confused as to why he had lied about Mr Osborn not giving his name, although she felt like she had an idea. “He wasn’t unkind was he? I’m sorry if he was.”

[au-everett]

Everett shrugged. "He couldn't wait to get rid of me," he said nonchalantly. "To be fair, if I was in charge of a cute li'l thing like you, I'd snarl at every man that walked by too."

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

Marilyn’s eyes widened and her face went as red as a ripe cherry, and she looked down quickly, praying that he hadn’t seen it. ‘He’s just being kind.’ She told herself sternly. ‘Don’t be such a fool. You barely know him.’ She cleared her throat. “Regardless, I am sorry. He...he feels a lot of responsibility for me...he knew my momma, and practically watched me grow up...” A fond smile makes it way onto her still blushing face. “He’s the closest thing I have to a father...” She trailed off, thinking back to her childhood. Even then Victor had been an ever constant presence, a shadow, watching over her. “But still, that doesn’t excuse any rudeness on his part. Was Ilya any better?”

[au-everett]

Everett thought for a moment; she must be talking about the other man. "The blonde man? He didn't say much to me after I handed you off to him."

He shrugged again. "He weren't rude, but not friendly either. I don't blame'em, I'm just a stranger."

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

Marilyn hummed. "He tends to fret over me a lot. They both do really." She smiled a little. "But I'm sure he was very grateful, even if he didn't express it properly." He hadn't said anything to that affect, at least not around her, but regardless Marilyn was certain that he was grateful to Mr Osborn. "Honestly I'm surprised those two didn't send out an entire search party, with hunting dogs and all." She couldn't help but giggle. "The way those two go on, anyone would think I'm a little girl rather than a woman." But then, she could hardly blame them. They had known her for years, practically her whole life, it was normal for them to be so protective. Even if it was a tad stifling at times.

[au-everett]

Everett barely stopped himself from rolling his eyes. "Men who don't teach their women how to defend themselves just want to control them," he muttered.

He looked back at her, thoughtful.

"Why don't I teach you how to get away from a man, if he ever tries anything. That way they don't have to worry about you so much."

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

Marilyn stared at Mr Osborn, genuinely surprised at his offer. “Oh! I-um, I...” She trailed off, not sure how to respond to his offer. She had never thought about learning how to protect herself, it had never really seemed important. But the idea was certainly attractive, it’s own way. It would be nice to be able to go places unchaperoned, and not be so afraid all the time. But then...

“I don’t want to be bother or a burden to you.” She said gently. “They mean well, really. They just...worry a lot. Besides, I don’t know if I would be any good.” She looked down, a little embarrassed. “I...I would rather not waste your time Mr Osborn.”

[au-everett]

"Won't be a waste of time, as long as you remember what I teach you. Let's get you back home. We'll stop somewhere for a break and I can teach you some tricks."

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

Marilyn carefully mounted Gladys, thinking over Mr Osborn’s offer. She was very much intimidated by the idea, after all any number of things could go wrong. But she found her desire to learn starting to grow. If she could look after herself, it would grant her greater freedom, possibly even more confidence. And if it meant she could spend more time with Mr Osborn... “Well, I suppose we can at least try.” She said finally. “No harm in that.”

[au-everett]

Everett smiled as he mounted his horse and led them out of town towards her home town. He made sure to walk his horse beside hers, keeping an eye on her condition.

As midday approached, Everett led them off the path towards a copse of trees on a riverbank.

"We'll stop here and take a break until the sun passes overhead."

He pulled his bedroll off his horse and laid it down on some flat ground under a tree. Then he walked over to Marilyn and held his hands out to her.

"Lemme help you down."

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

Marilyn quietly followed Mr Osborn’s lead, glancing at him on occasion. She felt so...daring, going off and doing something like this with a man she barely knew. But she had suddenly been gripped by bravery and spontaniety, and she decided to let it lead her where it may.

A little surprised at Mr Osborn’s offer, Marilyn nonetheless took his hands and gently dismounted from Gladys, who still looked very disapproving. “I-I’m very new to this.” She said nervously. “I mean, I’ve never done anything like this before, not in the slightest, so...so please forgive me if I’m a little slow.”

[au-everett]

She's so light, he thought to himself as he helped her down. Thinking about what moves he could teach her, he immediately thought of a couple that she might be able to do.

But first, a break. Leading her to the bedroll, he sat down and pulled out some bread and cheese. Cutting a slice of each for her, he handed her a portion before cutting some off for himself.

"Best to get some food and water in you now while we're not movin'. Then I'll have you practice a couple of things."

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

Marilyn gently sat across from Mr Osborn, legs bent at the knee and lying beside her. "Oh, th-thank you." She said softly, taking the offered food. She nibbled a little at a corner, like a mouse would. She kept glancing up at Mr Osborn, now better able to take in his features, all of which were alarmingly handsome, to the point where she got self conscious just staring at him and she quickly looked away. "I-I hope you find me a...satisfactory student." She took another small bite of the cheese and bread.

[au-everett]

"I'm sure you'll be fine, sweetheart," he replied as he munched on a bread roll. He wondered though, if she'd be able to handle being grabbed from behind... He wondered if he would be able to handle it.

"First thing to keep in mind is to use your elbows to hit someone, not your fist. If you don't mind me sayin', I don't think you have the strength to throw a proper punch."

He drank some water from his canteen and passed it over to Marilyn. "Water?"

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

Marilyn felt her face heat up at being called ‘sweetheart’, feeling rather flustered, and doing her best not to show it. “Well you’re not wrong.” She sheepishly held up her hands. “These hands are better suited for needlework and music than fighting.” She giggled a little, glancing down at Mr Osborn’s hands. His gloves covered most of them, leaving only his fingers bare, and allowing Marilyn’s mind to wander, thinking about how the skin of his hands looked in comparison to hers. She imagined that they were far tougher than hers, her few callouses being rather small and the result of hours of practice at things that, while fun, weren’t terribly practical in the grand scheme of things.

She looked down at the canteen and hesitated for a second before delicately taking it. “Thank you Mr Osborn.” She sipped from it delicately, lips only just brushing against the nozzle, before handing it back.

[au-everett]

Watching her drink like a little bird, he had the sudden mental image of holding her in his arms, petting her head, and then lifting her up and carrying her away...

He shook his head of the thought as he took the canteen back. Taking another drink, the thought that they had just shared an indirect kiss was not lost on him.

Putting the thought away with the canteen, he finished his food and waited for her to finish before standing.

"You ready for your first lesson?"

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

Marilyn quickly rose to her feet, smoothing out her dress and making sure she still looked presentable. “Y-Yes Mr Osborn sir!” She cleared her throat and put her hands behind herself, to better hide her fidgeting. “W-What are we going to do? And would you rather I called you Mr Osborn or sir?”

[au-everett]

Everett swallowed at the sweet sound of her voice calling her 'sir'. Looking away and taking a breath to calm his raging hormones, he turned back to her and smiled. "Just call me Everett, makes me feel less old."

Walking around to stand behind her, he put his hands lightly on her shoulders. Taking a step forward, he murmured in her ear. "I was thinking the first lesson could be how to get out of a choke hold, but I'm gonna have to put my arms around you. Is that alright?"

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

Mr Osborn's reaction to her question didn't go unnoticed by Marilyn, and it left her somewhat confused. Why did he react like that? Her thoughts quickly left her when Mr Osborn's hands settled on her shoulders, and she nearly shivered when he whispered in her ear. For a few moments her mind was completely empty, void of any thoughts.

She eventually snapped out of it and swallowed, exhaling shakily. "S-Sure." She stammered. "You...you do whatever you think is best."

[au-everett]

It had taken a few days of asking around, but eventually Marilyn was able to find the man who had saved her, and she was determined to repay him somehow. She waved at him shyly, smiling widely. "Hello sir! Do you remember me? You helped me back to town the other day." She eased Gladys, who seemed ambivalent about the whole thing, to a stop, and elegantly dismounted. "I'm Marilyn Taylor?"

Everett was very surprised to see Marilyn again, especially since they were now a full town away from where he had last met her.

"Of course I remember you, Ms. Taylor." He looked around her, trying to spot her wards. "Did you come here alone?"

He wasn't nervous, no. But he was a little cautious when it came to other men who were protective of ladies like her. He couldn't deny his own feral need to protect when seeing her, so he understood how her... Caretakers? How they might feel.

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

“Yes, I am.” Marilyn blushed a little, she could only imagine how Victor and Ilya treated Everett once she passed out. “I hope I’m not interrupting anything, I just wanted to thank you personally.” She smiled and reached into her saddle bag, pulling out a very fine, and expensive, bottle of whiskey. “You were very kind the other day, and I wanted to repay you, and apologise for being so much trouble, I can only imagine you had far better things to do than look after a strange girl.”

[au-everett]

Everett's eyes widened at the bottle of whiskey being offered to him. His immediate urge is to take it and leave, but he had a sudden mental image of his sister whacking him on the back of the head and telling her to refuse it and take the lady home.

He sighed heavily.

"Uh, you didn't have to do that sweetheart," he said, taking the bottle of whiskey anyway. "Let me take you back, make sure you're alright. We're quite a ways away from where you were staying before, unless you've moved elsewhere?"

Part of him wanted to spend a little time with her, but he didn't want to deal with the consequences, and she didn't seem like the type to be interested in certain... activities.

Too innocent. Too much of a temptation. Better to take her home and forget all about those pretty eyes looking up at him.

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

Marilyn blushed profusely when Mr Osborn called her ‘sweetheart’ and she quickly looked away, trying to hide it. “Y-You’re welcome.” She stuttered, swallowing a little. She was used to that kind of treatment from Ilya, not handsome strangers. ‘Stop, don’t even think about it.’ She looked back at Mr Osborn and her smile fell a little, her embarrassment growing. “I...OK.” She said softly. “I’m sorry if I bothered you Mr Osborn, Victor said that you didn’t leave your name or a forwarding address and I wanted to thank you properly, so I had to ask around, I hope that’s alright.”

As if sensing her owner’s embarrassment and nervousness, Gladys approached, gently nudging Marilyn. She smiled and patted the mare’s head. “And I haven’t moved, do you remember the way?”

[au-everett]

"Sure, I remember. I'll escort you back, but you best explain that you came to me if your own accord. I don't want no trouble."

He eyed her for a moment. "I don't recall givin' you my last name, little lady. But I did leave it with Victor. If not from him, how'd you find out?"

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

"Oh. You did?" Marilyn frowned a little, clearly confused. Victor had said that Mr Osborn had just left, without a further word. "I asked the sheriff and a few others, and they were able to point me here." She blushed again, realising how that must've sounded. "I-I hope you don't mind that. Like I said, I wanted to see you and thank you properly. It seemed like the right thing to do."

[au-everett]

Everett smiled. "I don't mind, just... Be careful of asking for me. I'm... not exactly a good man." He stepped closer to her, trapping her between him and her horse. "I'll take you home, but promise me you'll listen and run away if I tell you to."

His voice had gotten low and rough, his cornflower blue eyes looking intently at Ms Taylor.

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

Marilyn took a step back, staring up at Mr Osborn. Her heart began to beat faster, and she took in more of his, rather handsome, features. She blinked, unused to this kind of situation, and thus unprepared.

Gladys however, was far more decisive. She huffed, moving between Marilyn and Everett. She made a sound like a snarl, flicking Everett with her tail.

"Gladys!" Marilyn grabbed the reins and pulled the mare back, face flushed. "S-Sorry." She stammered. "She, um, is rather...protective." Marilyn patted Gladys's neck and collected herself. She looked back at Mr Osborn and tried to smile reassuringly, but it didn't quite meet her eyes. She cleared her throat. "I-I promise." She said. "But I'm afraid I must disagree about you not being good. I don't think a man who wasn't good would've helped me like you did." She smiled shyly, and this time her eyes were warm, almost fond, as she tried to calm her heart.

[au-everett]

Oh lord, she's too cute, Everett thought as he stepped back from her horse's attempt to protect her owner.

"Believe what you want, just tellin' it like it is," he said as he started to walk back to his horse, hitched at the saloon. He glanced behind him to see if she was following.

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

Marilyn held onto Gladys’s reins and patted her neck as she followed Mr Osborn. A part of her felt a little apprehensive, wondering if he had been exaggerating with his warning, or if he was truly worried about something happening.

“How...how was Victor when you spoke to him?” She asked. She was still a little confused as to why he had lied about Mr Osborn not giving his name, although she felt like she had an idea. “He wasn’t unkind was he? I’m sorry if he was.”

[au-everett]

Everett shrugged. "He couldn't wait to get rid of me," he said nonchalantly. "To be fair, if I was in charge of a cute li'l thing like you, I'd snarl at every man that walked by too."

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

Marilyn’s eyes widened and her face went as red as a ripe cherry, and she looked down quickly, praying that he hadn’t seen it. ‘He’s just being kind.’ She told herself sternly. ‘Don’t be such a fool. You barely know him.’ She cleared her throat. “Regardless, I am sorry. He...he feels a lot of responsibility for me...he knew my momma, and practically watched me grow up...” A fond smile makes it way onto her still blushing face. “He’s the closest thing I have to a father...” She trailed off, thinking back to her childhood. Even then Victor had been an ever constant presence, a shadow, watching over her. “But still, that doesn’t excuse any rudeness on his part. Was Ilya any better?”

[au-everett]

Everett thought for a moment; she must be talking about the other man. "The blonde man? He didn't say much to me after I handed you off to him."

He shrugged again. "He weren't rude, but not friendly either. I don't blame'em, I'm just a stranger."

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

Marilyn hummed. "He tends to fret over me a lot. They both do really." She smiled a little. "But I'm sure he was very grateful, even if he didn't express it properly." He hadn't said anything to that affect, at least not around her, but regardless Marilyn was certain that he was grateful to Mr Osborn. "Honestly I'm surprised those two didn't send out an entire search party, with hunting dogs and all." She couldn't help but giggle. "The way those two go on, anyone would think I'm a little girl rather than a woman." But then, she could hardly blame them. They had known her for years, practically her whole life, it was normal for them to be so protective. Even if it was a tad stifling at times.

[au-everett]

Everett barely stopped himself from rolling his eyes. "Men who don't teach their women how to defend themselves just want to control them," he muttered.

He looked back at her, thoughtful.

"Why don't I teach you how to get away from a man, if he ever tries anything. That way they don't have to worry about you so much."

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

Marilyn stared at Mr Osborn, genuinely surprised at his offer. “Oh! I-um, I...” She trailed off, not sure how to respond to his offer. She had never thought about learning how to protect herself, it had never really seemed important. But the idea was certainly attractive, it’s own way. It would be nice to be able to go places unchaperoned, and not be so afraid all the time. But then...

“I don’t want to be bother or a burden to you.” She said gently. “They mean well, really. They just...worry a lot. Besides, I don’t know if I would be any good.” She looked down, a little embarrassed. “I...I would rather not waste your time Mr Osborn.”

[au-everett]

"Won't be a waste of time, as long as you remember what I teach you. Let's get you back home. We'll stop somewhere for a break and I can teach you some tricks."

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

Marilyn carefully mounted Gladys, thinking over Mr Osborn’s offer. She was very much intimidated by the idea, after all any number of things could go wrong. But she found her desire to learn starting to grow. If she could look after herself, it would grant her greater freedom, possibly even more confidence. And if it meant she could spend more time with Mr Osborn... “Well, I suppose we can at least try.” She said finally. “No harm in that.”

[au-everett]

Everett smiled as he mounted his horse and led them out of town towards her home town. He made sure to walk his horse beside hers, keeping an eye on her condition.

As midday approached, Everett led them off the path towards a copse of trees on a riverbank.

"We'll stop here and take a break until the sun passes overhead."

He pulled his bedroll off his horse and laid it down on some flat ground under a tree. Then he walked over to Marilyn and held his hands out to her.

"Lemme help you down."

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

Marilyn quietly followed Mr Osborn’s lead, glancing at him on occasion. She felt so...daring, going off and doing something like this with a man she barely knew. But she had suddenly been gripped by bravery and spontaniety, and she decided to let it lead her where it may.

A little surprised at Mr Osborn’s offer, Marilyn nonetheless took his hands and gently dismounted from Gladys, who still looked very disapproving. “I-I’m very new to this.” She said nervously. “I mean, I’ve never done anything like this before, not in the slightest, so...so please forgive me if I’m a little slow.”

[au-everett]

She's so light, he thought to himself as he helped her down. Thinking about what moves he could teach her, he immediately thought of a couple that she might be able to do.

But first, a break. Leading her to the bedroll, he sat down and pulled out some bread and cheese. Cutting a slice of each for her, he handed her a portion before cutting some off for himself.

"Best to get some food and water in you now while we're not movin'. Then I'll have you practice a couple of things."

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

Marilyn gently sat across from Mr Osborn, legs bent at the knee and lying beside her. "Oh, th-thank you." She said softly, taking the offered food. She nibbled a little at a corner, like a mouse would. She kept glancing up at Mr Osborn, now better able to take in his features, all of which were alarmingly handsome, to the point where she got self conscious just staring at him and she quickly looked away. "I-I hope you find me a...satisfactory student." She took another small bite of the cheese and bread.

[au-everett]

"I'm sure you'll be fine, sweetheart," he replied as he munched on a bread roll. He wondered though, if she'd be able to handle being grabbed from behind... He wondered if he would be able to handle it.

"First thing to keep in mind is to use your elbows to hit someone, not your fist. If you don't mind me sayin', I don't think you have the strength to throw a proper punch."

He drank some water from his canteen and passed it over to Marilyn. "Water?"

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

Marilyn felt her face heat up at being called ‘sweetheart’, feeling rather flustered, and doing her best not to show it. “Well you’re not wrong.” She sheepishly held up her hands. “These hands are better suited for needlework and music than fighting.” She giggled a little, glancing down at Mr Osborn’s hands. His gloves covered most of them, leaving only his fingers bare, and allowing Marilyn’s mind to wander, thinking about how the skin of his hands looked in comparison to hers. She imagined that they were far tougher than hers, her few callouses being rather small and the result of hours of practice at things that, while fun, weren’t terribly practical in the grand scheme of things.

She looked down at the canteen and hesitated for a second before delicately taking it. “Thank you Mr Osborn.” She sipped from it delicately, lips only just brushing against the nozzle, before handing it back.

[au-everett]

Watching her drink like a little bird, he had the sudden mental image of holding her in his arms, petting her head, and then lifting her up and carrying her away...

He shook his head of the thought as he took the canteen back. Taking another drink, the thought that they had just shared an indirect kiss was not lost on him.

Putting the thought away with the canteen, he finished his food and waited for her to finish before standing.

"You ready for your first lesson?"

[ask-marilyn-taylor]

Marilyn quickly rose to her feet, smoothing out her dress and making sure she still looked presentable. “Y-Yes Mr Osborn sir!” She cleared her throat and put her hands behind herself, to better hide her fidgeting. “W-What are we going to do? And would you rather I called you Mr Osborn or sir?”