#payne x reader

[smolbeandrabbles]

Houston, We Got A Problem - Modern!Payne x Reader (Slow West)

@mandy23b​ @wltz-bby​ @happyskywhale​ #MendoTagSquad

Author’s Note: Right. Basically. I was inspired to do this due to pic I saw. And then I had to find a song and a plot that could make this modern and it all kinda worked out-! About 3 or so months after I originally went “this thing will get written-!”  (And then I started in in April and didn’t finish it until August!)

Anyway - I think if I have a checklist of things I can weave in here I got nearly all of them..! 😉😉😉

Disclaimer: AU, obviously / I think he’s as close to in-character as I could have got him but also understand he’s a little OOC (but had to for the context, I guess!) / Slow West & all associated characters not mine / my usual disclaimers-!

Premise: Offered a once in a lifetime opportunity in Houston, Texas - Payne is torn up about leaving you in Colorado. You know it’s a dream he’s been chasing, but you aren’t about to let him leave without reminding him what he has to return to...

Words: 4722

Warnings: AU / Swearing / Drinking / Sexual Connotations / Slight OOC-ness, maybe? He’s a little softer I think than he aught to be but I’ll let you all decide this for yourself-!

________

This is my kinda town, this is my kinda place I wouldn't mind hangin' 'round For more than just a couple days I got a twelfth floor room with a killer view of the empty Astrodome A tab at the bar downstairs, but all I can think about is home

You should've seen 19th Street, you should've seen the midnight rodeo The way them saloon doors swing, when they line dance to "Copperhead Road" Something ‘bout the air down here, that'll make you feel the way all them cowboys do I wish I was an outlaw, But all I can think about is you I got new boots covered in red dirt A "Don't Mess With Texas" T-shirt And a Lonestar postcard postmarked with missin' you It's got the biggest sky you've ever seen, the coldest beer you'd ever drink But I still feel like I landed on the moon 'Cause it ain't got you Houston, we got a problem

---

Undisclosed Location, Colorado

 You could see the truck before you could hear it; stirring up clouds of dust from the dirt roads leading down to the ranch. You were standing out on the front porch, not eager to get caught up in the hot mid-afternoon Colorado sunshine. You were watching Payne, Silas and Marimacho down in the corral with the horses; but that dust made your eyes raise to the horizon. You weren’t due any visitors, and everyone meant to be working here was already in situ. You knew that ad hoc visits sometimes happened; but usually they would call ahead. Cell reception wasn’t great out here, but the landlines worked just fine.

For now the guys were taking a well-earned cigarette break, keeping their sharp eyes on the horse they were training. When the truck was more visible; sun glancing off the paintwork and the hum of the engine filled the quiet air, Payne hopped up to straddle the fence for a closer look. There were no logos to indicate what it might be for, and he was sure that you would have told him if anyone was expected, or had called. He took a drag of his cigarette and squinted at it suspiciously as it continued to wind its way towards the house - you were already outside and could deal with it for now, but he had to admit he was curious. Silas and María joined him on the fencing; equally suspicious. “What’s up there?” Payne raised an eyebrow “Hope it’s good whatever it is...” He watched you point him out.  “Guess they’re looking for you, Payne.” “Ah shit, well, I’ll report back..! You two got this one, right?” Maria scoffed “Course we do-!” “If we don’t you’re not doing your job well.” Payne shoved Silas at that, who laughed, and jumpped down, putting out his cigarette he wandered over to you.

You stepped out to the front of the porch to greet them. Both men whose clothes and build said they were probably also in this profession. So they weren’t lost. Trainers or buyers? That was the question. “Good afternoon, m’am-!” They both sidled up to the porch, tipping their hats - ah-! The old-fashioned kind. “Afternoon gentleman. What can we help you with?” “We’re looking for a man by the name of Payne? Heard he’s the best in the business and that this is his ranch.” That irked you just a little, this was your ranch and your parents before you. And it had collectively become “yours” over time. True he had the reputation, and he’d built it into what it was... but it was not Payne’s. He used to work for your father; Payne had a gift for breaking and training horses, and had put this place on the map beyond your father’s wildest dreams. You weren’t about to argue that point now, instead you gave a small smile and pointed back to where they’d just driven from. “The man you’re looking for is out there working, gentleman...” Although he was watching you, the other two now at his side, and as soon as you indicated to him, Payne cleared the fence and began wandering over. “Oh-! Thank you m’am!” They both turned, not giving you the opportunity to ask what this was about. But you knew Payne; he wouldn’t have them speak without you in the know.

  By the time he reached the truck, the men had already started towards him; “Gentlemen-!” “Ah! You must be Payne!” “Correct,” He nodded to you, “I see you’ve already met my partner in crime, Ms.Y/N.” You mouthed him a ‘thank you’ - at least he always made sure you were recognised. Payne gave you a wink, before turning back to them; “What can we help you with?” “We hear you are the man to come to - for Horse Whispering, or for breaking horses.” Payne folded him arms across his chest and tipped his head, “That’s kind of you to say, suppose the proof can only be in the success - you need horses breaking, or otherwise?” “Yes. We have the horses, but we wanted someone with your expertise for this particular job.” Payne nodded; “Whereabouts are you from?” “Houston, Texas.” Both of you suddenly froze in place. That was Midnight Rodeo territory. There was a lot that could be done in Texas to do with horses. Payne wasn’t beyond being a full-on cowboy at times, if the need called for it. He swallowed hard, “Well, then maybe we should take this inside... that’s... quite a way to come for just me.” They looked to each other, then back to him with massive grins, “Well, Payne, you ain’t just anyone - you’re the best of the best. And hopefully we can have a good discussion. We haven’t looked at anyone else; you’re the man we wanna hire.” Your eyebrows shot up at that - this wasn’t an opportunity your man would want to miss, you knew that.  Payne turned back to his friends to whistle that he’d be a while, and then ushered the men inside - this was likely to be a long discussion; but an exciting prospect at that.

 ***

 By the time they left the sun was low in the sky, and Silas and Marimacho had already packed up ready for the morning – leaving the horses out to graze. You were both sitting on the front porch watching them and discussing the offer, his head in your lap. “It’s a good job, it’s a big job. But you’re gonna be here alone.” You smiled, he was right – it would be unprecedented for Payne to get something good going on in Texas, especially with such draws at the Midnight Rodeo, and to bolster his reputation and his name; yes, you’ve heard of him – now here’s the proof that what they say is true. You certainly weren’t about to let him pass that up, even if it would mean being here alone for a few weeks. You knew he wouldn’t want to go alone; he’d need the whole team – after all Payne always said it was a team effort. You ran your hand through his tangle of curls; “Baby, don’t worry about me, you should do this thing. It’s gonna be real good for you.” He sighed, folding his arms; “I dunno, Y/N… I just…” “You can leave me alone, I’ll be fine.” His eyes met yours and doubt was written all over his face. Payne had a point it wasn’t usual for you to be apart, and you’d suggest going with him but you’d be needed to hold the fort here – and he’d only trust you to do that. “Well, yeah, I’ll miss you. Of course I will, but…” You bent your body over his, “you need this, and you want it. And I won’t let you say no because of me.” and kissed him gently. “But there’s so many other factors-!” Payne looked back to the horses again – “I mean, you by yourself out here? What if you need help-!? I mean, do I leave someone with you here or-!?” “Shhhh…” You rubbed his shoulder affectionately, “Stop thinking so much and make a gut decision.” He scoffed, “If I even knew what that was.” You shook your head and kissed his cheek gently, shifting him off your lap; “Well – maybe it’d be better for you to have an inner dialogue…” He sat back on his hands as you stood, brushing yourself down, “I’m gonna make dinner-!” Payne replaced his hat and raised an eyebrow, reaching out to take your hand “What would you do, if they wanted you?” “I mean I doubt they ever would, I’m hardly the same calibre,” His fingertips danced over your skin, causing you to smile more, “but I would go. If it’s what I wanted.” “And you wouldn’t feel guilty?” You sighed, “I hope you don’t think I would guilt you about it anyway.” You bent to kiss him again, “No. I wouldn’t.” You swept back to the front door, “And don’t you dare try to guilt trip yourself out of it!” He laughed, “I still gotta decide if I wanna go-!” But you knew, deep down, his decision was already made. Dinner was eaten in relative silence, mostly because you felt every time you opened your mouth he might think a little too much on staying for you – you hated to think that a man who wasn’t really one to be tied to any one place, would skip out on Texas for you. Payne had never been homebody and he’d left you here before – you supposed it was the longevity of it. And perhaps how far away he would be. He helped you clear the table before leaving you with a kiss on the cheek and heading outside again. You sighed gently, watching him go. You were worried; how could you not be? But his fretting over this was for nothing; after all it wouldn’t be forever, Payne would still return to you. And if he needed you to make that decision for him, then you certainly would. You gave him another hour or so alone whilst you set out everything that needed to be done the following day, and chalked up everyone’s schedule. After which you got the house in order for the evening, and, thinking that he’d now had enough time to think, joined Payne back on the porch. You couldn’t help but roll your eyes; he was lying back again, one arm behind his head, smoking a cigar. The glass and bottle next to him filled with a suspicious looking green liquid that you knew he shouldn’t be trusted with. ‘If it’s bad enough for Absinthe, I guess it really IS bad.’ You strolled over, shaking your head slowly; “Boy. Don’t make me decide for you!” He was silent for a moment, blowing smoke into the late evening air; “Wish you could.” You leant against the porch frame, one hand on your hip; “I’ll help you get ready…” Your eyes flicked to him; “I’ve been alone before. I mean I love ya, but I think I can survive.” He shot you a look, “I just don’t think sitting out here with absinthe is really gonna help you think with any clarity!” You grinned, “I have a solution, though.” He sat up again, taking another drag, “Oh yeah?” You gave him a smirk, “Yeah… But you’re gonna have to promise me you’re going to go.” “I could just as easily go back on it.” His head tipped, daring you to do something about that proposal. “Well,” You sauntered around him, dragging your fingertips across his shoulders, “if you don’t want me…” He let out a soft groan, “You know I’ll do it.” “You shouldn’t do it because I think you should either…” You paused, picking up the glass and finishing it for him. Regretting it about 5 seconds later and shuddering; you’d nearly always hated the taste – especially neat. “You should do it because it’s all you’ve ever talked about. Because you dream about it. All I’m trying to encourage you to do is chase your dreams.” Payne tipped his head back, blue eyes searching yours; “You’re still gonna be here right?” “You think I’d leave you? I think you’re much more likely to find someone new in Texas.” He growled, “Are you fucking kidding me-!?” “Just checking!” Though the grin on your face was teasing. He stubbed out the cigar and rolled over onto his front, eyes narrowed; “Is that what you think of me?” You took a step back, with a smirk; “Why don’t you prove to me you won’t?” Payne jumped to his feet and pretty soon had you backed against the front door, hands in your hair and lips on yours; “How dare you suggest such a thing-!?” You simply smiled; “I just wanted to check there was someone to wait for, and tell me all about what happened when he lived his dream…” He shook his head, bringing your lips to his again, before moving his hands to the hem of your shirt; “Well – Let me just prove to you, that there’s something worth waiting for.” ***

Houston, Texas

Payne hated to admit how much this was hurting him. He was living it here in Houston, this was the ‘I made it!’ dream.

He’d been here almost a month now, and the entire crew has flown down with him. He was supposed to be having the time of his life, and he was having the time of his life. These were some of the most gorgeous horses he’d ever been given the opportunity to work with and break. And watching them go from fairly wild to seeing them get calmer, and some of them eventually in the rodeos themselves or out working, was breath-taking, and everyone was impressed. Especially the gentlemen who had hired him. He was getting a lot of exposure; his whole crew were. This felt a lot more like play than work, and Payne didn’t think he’d ever seen them all so happy.

But all he could think about was home; all he could think about was you. Even when he was run off his feet, you were still in the back of his head. He called you every day, and if you didn’t pick up then he’d leave a message - but no matter if he got through to you or not, Payne always ended with “I miss you.” Because he did - and he and you had travelled before, it wasn’t like you weren’t used to this but it felt bigger, it felt longer... it was longer. And there wasn’t a real end in sight. But Payne knew he wanted to go home; even realising his dream wouldn’t stop that feeling - he was a Colorado boy, and the ranch and you would always be home.

Payne knew what was coming, from the way everyone was so delighted at his team’s progress, he knew that they would offer him a job. It was always in the air but never said; it was going to be asked as soon as he was on the brink of leaving, Payne knew. It would be him, and he would say no ‘not without the crew’ then it would be all of them asked, and he would still say ‘no, not without her’, and then they would say it would be fine to move everyone’s families too. But you’d refuse; it was a ranch handed down through generations - back to when the West was first being settled. When outlaws and bounty hunters ruled the land. You weren’t leaving - you’d probably rather leave him than you would that house. And Payne had spent way too long crushing on you, then wooing you, and now being with you to let that happen.

This might be his dream but he was comfortable with you. And all Payne had ever wanted was to be comfortable.

 Tonight was another night at the midnight rodeo, but for the first time since he’d arrived here Payne was skipping out. His phone had vibrated a couple of times when he knew it was due to start but they’d left him alone since then. Instead he was sitting at the desk in his hotel room, looking out over the city. There was a glass of whiskey sitting next to him (absinthe wouldn’t have tasted the same away from home either and it wasn’t exactly a wide spread sold alcohol), yet Payne was a little too absorbed in what he was doing to pay real attention to that either. Calling you was all well and good, but Payne didn’t have a fantastically verbal love language. He didn’t think of things to say in the moment that could express his feelings to you adequately; but he could write it. He could ponder what words sounded right, he could change them all around and make sure that it all flowed. Everything that he somehow couldn’t say out loud, Payne was at least glad that you could read it. It might only have been a postcard, not a real love letter, but it would have to do for now. He could still say everything that he wanted to; and Payne would still end those letters in the same way as he did his calls:

‘I miss you.’

 **

You knew what it was as soon as you opened the mailbox, and dropped everything else inside before sitting up on the paddock fence, yours and his horse grazing in the field behind you, you sat and read. You inhaled - knowing that he would have sprayed it with his cologne, in the same way when on occasion you wrote to him you would cover your notes in perfume - and for a second it felt like he was here, with his arms around you.

At first you were smiling; he was such a sweetheart in the way that he wrote. You knew Payne wasn’t good with words, romantic words, but this was always where he told you he loved you. Letters happened even when he was home, you’d find them all over the house and they would always make you beam; you kept them in a little box and sometimes you’d sit and read them back. It always amazed you how what he wrote may have been different the longer you were together but, what he said stayed the same. He still loved you the same, and you loved him just as much. So soon enough, as you continued to read his postcard, you weren’t just smiling, your heart began to ache and tears threatened to spill. You sniffed and rubbed your eyes, not allowing any to fall, as you did so his horse nudged against your arm and you patted his muzzle with a half-laugh-half-upset exhale; “I know... I know... I miss him too.”

 Payne knew the question was coming. You were going to ask it eventually. You knew he had to work but sometimes too long was too long. And you knew what this meant to him, and that you’d persuaded him to chase it across the country, but you missed him. There was no end date: it wasn’t like he’d be back at the end of the month; the truth was he didn’t know when it would be over. “When are you coming home?” He didn’t want to tell you he didn’t know, but he didn’t. Payne could hear it in your voice though, that you couldn’t take much more uncertainty. And neither could he; it wasn’t about wanting to go home anymore, but needing to. “Baby, I... you know what they’re going to say, they’re gonna wanna keep me on.” “Well they can’t have you.” Your answer was curt. He chuckled “Feisty. I wasn’t gonna leave, I know where my place is.” Your voice was amused though, “Damn right-!” “As you know good work is never done when horses go in and out all the time. I guess the specific group I’ve been working with are nearly fully trained. So, I’ll be home soon. I promise you that, I’m comin’ home-!” “Don’t make me hold you to that-!” He grinned “Ha-! Oh, I won’t-!”  

**

It was a harder conversation than he’d expected. But Payne wasn’t one for giving up, nor negotiating when he wanted something. He very much had a ‘my way or the highway’ attitude, and he wasn’t about to be forced into staying when his work was over. The money he was offered was good – brilliant even – he couldn’t deny that. Yet, Payne knew where home was, and it wasn’t here – even with how much he was loving his time here. He kept firm, and made sure they knew he wasn’t about to be pushed around. The one thing Payne worried about was his reputation; after all he didn’t want this relationship to turn sour. Once he’d left they could use anything to turn the rumour mill: ‘aw, the boy couldn’t hack it.’ That just wasn’t true. But Payne didn’t really trust anyone outside his friends and you; and was always that little bit suspicious. You’d always called it out as an odd trait; especially as he seemed pretty open and friendly towards most people. ‘How else am I supposed to get business and get paid, Y/N!?’ ‘AHHH! So it is for your own ends!?’ Yeah, you probably had it right, but he wasn’t admitting that. Though there was always a reason he kept a decent revolver around. What he did promise was that he could come back periodically for a few days, maybe a few weeks, and continue to work for them. But Payne wouldn’t be contracted here, and he explained as such – he’d built up his, and the ranches, name in Colorado and there he would stay. He had a lot waiting back home – and this would never be home. Even if he could miraculously get you to agree to move. Not that he gave them much of a choice, but they saw the logic in his decision and accepted his offer. He’d really have to talk it out with you first; but Payne was sure you’d not mind too much. Weren’t you always calling him a drifter anyway? The ranch was just a home base. That suggestive way you’d look at him, voice sultry to match your blink and say; “If the sex wasn’t so good you probably wouldn’t even stay, huh, babe?” Payne shook away that thought with a deep exhale, you weren’t the only thing he was missing right now. By the time he got back to his crew from the final meeting and tidy up, they were all already packed away. Everyone had the same notion, they were ready to go, ready to get back to families of their own. Still, Payne knew how much they had loved it here; and far be it from him to hold any of them back. “Before we do all get on a flight tomorrow morning back home, I do wanna say to you how proud I am of how hard you’ve worked. We’ve always been like a little gang of outlaws, and hell if we haven’t shown these Texas rangers a thing or two!” There were plenty of laughs and cheers at that, and Payne grinned, “But, I’m going to give you the choice, and no hard feelings. You can stay if you wanna stay, if you think this is better for you…” He turned to take in his surroundings, “I’m not gonna stop ya.” There was silence amongst them for a minute, and as Payne’s eyes settled back on them he had a horrible feeling they were all about to walk away. Skelly was the first one to scoff; “Payne, ya gotta be kiddin’ man! We ain’t leavin’!” Silas joined in immediately; “Hell yeah, you’re a good man and a good boss and we’re sticking with you the whole way! Fuck these guys, it’s all or nothing with us-! Hell, you’re the one that damn near had us make a pact.” Payne chuckled at that; “Yeah, we were kids back then Silas.” “Well, it still means a lot to us!” Marimacho folded her arms with a smile; “You stick by us and our families. If we ever need anything you and Y/N are there, and if there’s ever something troubling us you’re lenient and understanding. Side note too, but your gal is awesome… We’d miss her too much! No-one gets left behind Payne, you’ve always been about that.” “Here, here!” Kid and Gull followed suit on the other three. He blinked a couple of times, humbled – glad that they wouldn’t turn their backs on something good. Still, he smirked, Payne could count on their loyalty – they were a motley crew for sure, but all great friends. He was glad they’d still take some stupid lines said as teenagers so seriously. He nodded, looking at each of them in turn; “You’re right. No-one gets left behind.” His smirk turned back to a small smile; “So, lets get back to the ones who are waiting for us.” *** He had called you the evening before to say he was leaving. You thought it seemed very sudden, but you supposed Payne would rather make sure, and head home than promise you something and find out he couldn’t keep it. He’d also let you know they were getting on the plane, and now you knew he was on his way back you couldn’t have been more excited. So, as soon as you heard his truck, you couldn’t help grinning. It was an all too familiar sound; and not just to you. Seemingly every horse in the stables knew too; his and yours racing to the top end of the paddock, and the dogs were also in chorus. You chuckled to yourself; “Daddy’s home.” Washing and wiping your hands quickly on a towel from where you’d been working, you ran to the door as you heard his truck pull up. By the time you’d opened it and run onto the porch, he’d already leapt from the vehicle and was walking over. Payne stood at the bottom step, presenting himself, grinning at he looked up at you; “Honey, I’m home!” You shook your head at him but, too overcome with joy to care about him being cheesy, you leapt off the porch and into his arms. “God, I missed you so much… I missed you so, so much!!” You cried blissfully as he held you tight to his chest. Payne understood that notion all too well; he’d spend the entire flight thinking about how he couldn’t wait to hold and kiss you again. And now here he was, and you were in his embrace; “I know…” He kissed your hair, before you shifted to capture his lips, arms tangling around his neck. It was a hard kiss, and long, very nearly taking both your breaths away. You smiled, stealing another, “You’ll have to tell me everything.” “Didn’t I already?” He smirked, not letting you leave his lips – oh, you knew exactly how the rest of this day was gonna go. “Uhm, I think I said when you came back, you had to tell me all about how you lived your dreams!” “Ahhh… You won’t even give me 2 seconds to say hello to my lady?” “I think you made your intentions for your lady perfectly clear…” You grazed your lips to his once again, “I may say she has done the same.” You tipped your head, with a raised eyebrow, “Mayhaps she has, but who are you gonna listen to first – the kids are whining.” You didn’t need to point that out, he could already hear that the animals were glad he was back. He pulled you in closer, voice lowering, “The kids can hush, mom and dad are talking…” smirking whilst kissing you again, “How well can they have been looked after, if they’re cryin’ for me?” “Of excitement, actually. They just missed you as much me!” “Uh huh, how about my coat, you look after that?” You laughed, “No-one is wearing a coat like that in this weather.” He made a face, “Okay, ‘cept you. Crazy man.” “Ha!” This time it was Payne laughing hard, and his hands ran down your body. You smirked running your hands from behind his neck across his broad shoulders to study his shirt, before chuckling. Emblazoned on the front were six photographs of form fitting jeans, with the caption ‘A Cowboys Best Assets’. The shirt itself hugged close to his chest and left your partner easy on the eye; not that he wasn’t already, of course. “Well, damn. That shirt’s not wrong… I like it.” Besides he was wearing a pair of those jeans himself right now. “Oh really? Thought you might.” “Mhm…” You tangled your fingers in it, and pulled him into yet another kiss. “But I’d like it and your best assets on the floor of our bedroom right now.” You removed his hat from his head and placed it on your own, with a wink. He didn’t need telling twice, hoisting you from the floor as you wound your legs around his waist; “Oh, yes m’am.” Payne took the porch steps quickly, and didn’t stop until he had you tangled in bedsheets.

---

is this from a Tumblr post? I feel like it is... Might need to find it out there and credit back

Thank you for reading my lovelies! 😘😘😘  You know I love this enough to continue it, right? 😉

[smolbeandrabbles]

Nothing I’ve Ever Known - Payne x Reader (Slow West)

Somewhere Amanda & Jax are laughing at me...

Author’s Note: Essentially this is the direct follow up to All To Myself, and you will have at least need to have read the very end scene of that to understand the beginning of this...

Well I’ve watched this movie a bunch more times than I ever thought I would...  My feelings for the movie are just about the same, but Silas (tbh Silas always was...) and Payne are now in the A-Ok books so, that’s an improvement! 👍

Nothing I’ve Even Known - Bryan Adams

Disclaimer: So, I went and watched Spirit again (DAMN what a movie) and simultaneously stole the soundtrack for this playlist - lyrics, obviously, not mine! Also Slow West isn’t mine (woulda ended different. That’s for sure.) Premise: After tying him up with directions, it’s not long before he’s mad at you. And it won’t be the only time he gets mad at you. Also, you’re not the only one who is leaving Payne... You’re just the only one that comes back... Words: 6558 Warnings: Swearing / Sexual Conotations “Play the highlights reel!”

______ I find myself somewhere I never thought I'd be. I'm going round in circles,  Thinkin' bout you and me... And how do I explain it when I don't know what to say? What do I do now? So much has changed. Nothing I've ever known Has made me feel this way. Nothing I've ever seen Has made me want to stay. Here I am, ready for you. I'm torn and I'm fallin' I hear my home callin' I've never felt something so strong. Oh no. It's like nothing I've ever known... You're the one I'm lookin' for You're the one I need. You're the one that gives me A reason to believe. Followin' a star Has lead to where you are. I feel so strong now This can't be wrong now... ---

Five Days Later… You were resting by a river bank when he finally caught up to you. "oh, here we go..." you stood, although with the way he was pushing his horse you heard him a while before he actually arrived. And you didn't think in all the years you'd known him you'd ever seen him so angry. "YOU-!" Payne was off his horse and on you in 10 seconds flat, and yet you maintained that picture of innocence look on your face. His gun was drawn and you heard the hammer click back, which should mean he meant business. But if he did, he'd have pulled the trigger and you'd have barely known a thing about it. "I could kill you. Right NOW! Like I should have done a long while ago. About time I collected that damn bounty of yours.” If he thought getting up in your face like that and growling was intimidating, it wasn't. You tilted your head with a raised eyebrow, disbelieving, pushing the gun away from your body gently: "Don't point a gun at me unless you intend to use it..." Your voice wasn't raised, if anything it bordered seductive. "You left me. You f**king left me!" "Ah, but you're still alive. And since you followed me here... you got my message." "You're worth more to me dead!" "Aw, now Payne don't lie to yourself..." Inches had become centimetres, "I swear... It’s about time someone did something about you." "Well..." you yanked him closer by his coat; "It ain't gonna be you." Soon Payne’s lips were on yours, and his hands were tangled in your hair again and everything you’d felt from a few days ago was flooding back to you; every touch he’d afforded you, the feel of his skin against yours. (Not that you hadn’t already dwelled on it…) By the fervour he kissed you with, you assumed you weren’t the only one thinking on it either… When he let you go you were both breathless, and even then he stole every kiss he could. You wriggled slowly from his grip; “I mean, I guess I’m glad they found you.” You’d caught up with his gang around 2 days after you’d left him. For which you were a little thankful, just in case the bartender had seriously not gone upstairs and found a man tied to the bed. You’d given them a little tip about what you’d done and where you’d left him. And Silas had almost laughed himself sick about it. Which hadn’t helped you laughing either. Of course, you hadn’t disclosed to them that you’d also slept with him. So you wondered what they thought now. Or rather you might not want to dwell on it. You could almost imagine Silas’s wicked smirk and raised eyebrows. However, they weren’t here. Only he was. “…Yeah, luckily I didn’t really have to explain anything!” “Oh-! So they don’t know?!” You smirked gently, “Shame, thought Silas might get a kick out of that…” You wandered back to your things, making sure to keep one eye on him; “… I’m sure Silas probably figured it out, he’s got a good head on his shoulders.” “He’s about the only one of you that does.” “Watch your mouth-!” You couldn’t help but laugh, and hard “You might just have to come over here to shut me up…” “Oh, I will.” “I have no doubt…” you started pulling things from your bag; “Seen as you’re here… and you pushed your poor horse far too hard to catch me… you best sit and rest. Are they followin’?” “No, I left them at camp this mornin’…” He did as you asked and strode over to you, sitting on what appeared to be a comfortable piece of ground after unbridling his horse by the rivers edge. It was a clear sunny day, and he could shrug himself out of his coat; letting you curiously graze your eyes over his skin. Those shirt buttons were still fairly useless, you saw. You crossed your legs and sat back, regarding him for a minute. He still piqued your curiosity, even now. Perhaps even more so now. What would it be like to be in a real relationship? What would it be like to travel with him? What would it be like to get the opportunity to love him like that every single night? It didn’t sound too bad, sitting here. He’d probably annoy the hell out of you though, that was about the one thing stopping you. Still – you were content to keep his company here, sharing bread, water- “Biscuits?” “Sugar, carbs, water. What else would you need?” Payne gave a shrug, “Seems like you could be healthier… What, no alcohol?” “If you don’t want anything-” “No! NO! This is good!” He broke it in half; knees up to stop you from taking anything back. Payne was just as content to bask in your attention, which you were all too happy to give him as you replayed your night over and over in your head. And he could look at you staring quietly at him and imagine what else he could do to you – oh, you had no idea… Eventually you broke the thoughtful silence and nodded to the tattoo now slightly exposed on his chest; “Snake, huh? Is that supposed to be a warning?” “Could be.” “Should have heeded it.” “That bad, huh?” You began laughing, and he noticed you didn’t answer him as you looked out to the water. Because you’d prefer not to answer. He watched your face; is she blushing-!? Sh*t! And that’s not the heat either, no way… she’s a f**kin’ liar. She enjoyed every damn minute..! He smirked I knew she would… When Payne realised he wasn’t going to get you back to that particular conversation to admit it – though he felt the quiet told him all he needed to know – he nodded behind you to your horse. Now wandered a little way down the river Jett was far enough away for it to be of concern that he could completely wandering off… Or someone popping out of nowhere and trying to make off with him. “I’ve always noticed how much power he has. He’s built big, but incredible fast…” You turned, and when you didn’t call him back Payne assumed you didn’t care, or there was no reason to worry; “Jett? Yeah, probably better that way. Consider I travel alone he can cover a lot of ground fairly quick; which you’re never sure when you’re going to need. Also, I like that he’s built so big, you wouldn’t necessarily mess with him.” You looked to his horse quick; “Not that I’d mess with your horse either.” “Really?” “Well, he’s yours. So, no. And I certainly wouldn’t mess with the horse belonging to the leader of a group of bounty hunters. But… I’m solo… What am I gonna do without a horse, might as well kill me.” “Well, that’s what I was getting to. You’re riding a horse that must be particularly sought after. No-one’s ever tried? I’d be worried about something like that.” “Oh I didn’t say that.” You laughed “Plenty have tried.” “And?” He thought this might be entertaining “Well for one, I’m impressed if they can get within 10 paces of him.” You tipped your head back to look at the sparse clouds for a minute, trying to remember a time when people had succeeded mounting him. It’d happened maybe once? Twice? And you’d got the exclusive front row seat to one of the more entertaining pieces of theatre ever. “Sometimes it happens though; see Jett is barely broken… just enough to be rideable. Just enough to have a bond with me. But he’s pretty much a wild Stallion.” Your eyes flicked back to him; “They don’t get very far before they are thrown off, or he basically refuses to move. Jett’s not one to put up with any sh*t… I like that. Could use some of that-!” “Barely broken? That’s a thing?” “My father used to break horses… I watched him do it all the time.” You nodded “I would have done something similar… He helped me break Jett… but… there was something about seeing him be wild and free… I didn’t want to lose any of that…” you turned back with a smile “He’s like having a part of my family with me. Maybe it’s not a thing; but it’s a concept… That’s what I’m going to call it. He’s still a wild horse, he just tolerates me…”  You turned slowly from watching Jett to your one-time-lover with a gentle smile, “Guess he’s a little like you…” He chuckled at that, tolerate…, he felt he probably did a lot more that that. He wanted to do a lot more than that. He had to know you wanted more than that too. “Why did you leave me a note anyway?” “Oh.” You blustered and gave an elaborate shrug, throwing your arms “Reasons.” “Why won’t you let me hear them. There’s a reason you wanted me to know exactly where you were going…” “Then I think you know. What I’m surprised of is why it took you so long… I did leave very specific instructions… And I didn’t try very hard… We could have pushed a little harder!” “Well, not all of us are great at… directions.” You giggled, “You got lost? Wait what threw you?! The rivers, right? If you started too high you would have come to the point where they intersect. No… I get it.” “I did not get lost; it just means I had to come further down. A detour.” “A detour, huh?” You were amused “I’m glad it wasn’t my writing is all.” “No…” He smiled gently, drawing himself up to height as he stood; “Your writing is fine…” You eyed him with a little more curiosity as he crouched in front of you “Well, good. That means I can continue leaving you notes when I leave you.” “I’m tying you up next time.” You teased; “Oh, is that so, cowboy?” “Don’t f**king start that again…” His voice was soft as he leant in for another kiss. “I’ll f**king start whatever I like…” You smirked, pulling him in to deepen the kiss this time – he placed his hands either side of you; “Then why don’t we…?” Payne bit your lip gently as he kissed you again, and you hummed in gentle approval; until he started to tip your body back, and you realised what he was doing. “UH-! What-! We are not gonna do this on a river bank on rocks!” You pushed Payne back; “Why not?” He went for your neck this time, and you had to struggle between really wanting him to do this and the logical protest, “N-n-No! God! At least have the common decency to take me to bed first-!” His nip of your earlobe – again – made you gasp “PAYNE!” “What-!?” He pulled back but only slightly, now showering your face in kisses; “You do realise we aren’t always gonna have the luxury of a bed, right?” You placed your fingers to his lips to hold him off, eyebrow raised; “Oh. That sounds serious?” “Don’t you want this to be serious?” “Can I trust you…?” you ran your fingers down his cheek to his neck, and stopped your hand at his shoulder “…I’m not gonna be one on a list.” “You can trust me.” He kissed you again; “Snake? Doesn’t sound so trust worthy.” Payne chuckled; “You’re gonna play all the cards until you give up, aren’t ya?” You gave a shrug, this time stealing the kiss from him, forcing him back as you sat upright; “You made the mistake there of thinking I’d give up…” “Ah, my mistake…” He kept his hands either side of you, but when he kissed you again you ran you hands back into his hair. This time neither of you interrupted each other, but were broken apart by a whistle for attention. “I shoulda f**kin’ known it!” You both turned, but of the two of you it was Payne who grumbled; “Aw, sh*t.” You couldn’t help but laugh. This couldn’t have happened any better. Silas sat on his horse, hands on his hips but grin on his face; “…Oh… Sorry, am I interrupting something?!” *** Months Later… It couldn’t have been more than a few weeks after your last encounter with Payne, and you weren’t exactly ready to see him again. But you thought about him often, too much. You weren’t sure it was good. You liked whatever it was you had with him, but you weren’t sure that it was good. In the long run it would go two ways – you’d end up roped into that gang, or he’d get sick of this and finally make a move on that bounty. Hell, maybe you’d end up killing each other. Either way, you didn’t see this working long term. But here you were, working through it anyway. He was good to see, and easy to leave. Because you’d always find him again – bounty hunting was a tight knit community and it wasn’t often that you went after each other. Maybe the new kids on the block would try, but other than that unless the bounty was too good to pass up… The problem with you and yours was trying it. However, every bounty was fair game, and often you would find each other trying to track the same person. No big deal, sometimes it was good to work together in these things. (Not that either of you might be doing that for the money…) So, seen as you weren’t in the mood to see him, finding Silas was the last thing you really wanted. Technically he was coming out of the town that you were going into, but you both reigned up – and for the next few moments there was a tense stand off between the two of you. He quirked an eyebrow; “Is this the part where we both draw arms and I die?” You had to blink a few times to snap yourself out of your dread; “Oh. No… I was just thinking how I only saw you guys a few weeks ago – can’t he get enough?” “You’re the one wandering into town…” Then he tilted his head; “Wait… a few weeks? No, surely months.” Months… Is it?” You had to think on it, and suddenly were relieved that clearly you didn’t count as diligently as you thought you did;  “Anyway, point is I don’t need this again – so I might as well back up and find the next town.” “Huh?” “Well, surely the gangs’ all here?” “Oh…” Silas bit he lips together and his eyes slowly moved from yours “You don’t know…? He didn’t tell you?” You leant forward, carful not to urge Jett on just yet, squinting at your friend; “Tell me what--!?” “Oh. I left.” “LEFT!?” You placed your fingertips to your lips for a second to quiet yourself down; “You did what-!?” “Left… Yeah… I’m… Heading out solo.” You placed your hands on your hips, impressed; “Well, congratulations. I wondered when you’d get out.” “Yeah…” he grinned sheepishly “I guess you’d mentioned it to me a couple of times…” Silas wheeled his horse around in a neat circle so he was now next to you, and pushed on – signalling you should start walking with him. “Why, I don’t think I’ll understand.” You scoffed; “Because I actually like you.” “You like him too though, from what I can gather.” You narrowed your eyes “Careful.” “If you’re sleeping with him then something is going on.” “Shut up-!” Your hand flew out and clamped over his mouth “I’d rather you didn’t say it out loud!” He peeled your fingers away from his face but kept your hand in his; “Why?! That’s what’s going on.” “I’m aware, thank you.” “It’s cuz you constantly told him he wouldn’t be doing anything about it isn’t it?” He smirked but it earned him a punch in the side; “OW! Geez…” He pulled his horse away from you to create a gap; “Alright, you’re only hitting so hard cuz it’s true.” “I can hardly deny it.” You sat back a little to slow Jett’s walk to a more casual pace; “…I’d just rather not dwell.”

Silas tipped his head, curious; “Do you love him?” “Do I what-!?” The way you shot him a look like he was insane made Silas grin; “You heard me.” “Love- NO. What?!” “Just checking.” You pulled Jett forward to stop his horse; “Why-!?” He held his hands up “I’m just checking-!” “Because if I don’t love him then what-?!” “Nothing-! Why are you getting on my case about this..?” You were getting irrationally angry, so the next sentence out of your mouth happened to be; “Do you want me-!?” Silas held your eyes, but as he opened his mouth his face dusted pink; “No. What-!? That’s not why I asked.” You folded your arms, maybe it wasn’t, but you figured it might be related “Uh huh… So what is it then? Why did you ask…” He cleared his throat, and took a breath that made the blush disappear all at once. He focused back on you; “I was wondering whether you were so exclusive to be averse to male company, is all.” “…I’m averse to any company, to be honest, but I’ll hear you out – what is it?” “Well… I was hoping I’d find you… Thought maybe you could keep me straight, teach me a few things about being single.” “Single’s not the word I’d use…” But a smile made its way across your face, and pretty soon you were aware that you were beaming. That was such a sweet thing to ask; you teaching him a thing or two about going solo? You weren’t so sure you wouldn’t be taking him up on a full-time partnership. However, you had to focus back on being alone – that’s what he wanted too. All of a sudden, you were really looking forward to sharing your time with someone else indefinitely; “Sure…! Let go do this!” **

You didn’t spend nearly as much time with Silas as you wanted to. He had this, and you’d known that almost from the second you’d walked out of that first town. But he was tentative, and he wanted to know he could handle this alone. Going from a group to alone would be a big thing, going from two people to just one was a lot easier on him. And you couldn’t help but feel a little proud as you watched him ride off into the distance as you’d bid each other ‘See you around!’ From what you’d gathered from your time together, it wouldn’t be your only time teaming up. He was good company; and you were starting to realise how lonely alone was… You had options to do something about that; but you wouldn’t. You guessed you had your own reasons for that – but were they even good reasons anymore? Instead of you running into Payne, this time he caught up to you. That hadn’t really happened since you’d left him your note, so part of you didn’t expect it. You expected less that he wouldn’t be happy to see you. And even less than that, that the first thing he’d do was drag you away from your horse across the dirt; “OW!! WILL YOU F**KING QUIT IT! WHAT DID I DO NOW-!?!” Though you didn’t know why you were asking what you’d done now, because you’d never done anything. As far as you were concerned. He pushed you back to standing, allowing you to brush yourself down. You noticed his gang still sitting on their horses ominously in the distance, and they all looked pretty pissed too. “You know damn well what you did!” Your face scrunched for a second; “What-!?” Then you wondered why you were bending to this and got angry about it; “NO! But I’m sure you’re gonna f**king enlighten me!” “HA.” He took a step back that read his ‘really!?’ “He left. He f**king left. But you already f**king knew that.” “…Silas?” That made you climb to a new level of outrage “THIS IS ABOUT SILAS!?!” You weren’t all that concerned with how he knew you knew. You should have been. “About Silas-!? Of course it’s about Silas! It’s YOUR fault!” He pointed an accusational finger at you. “WHAT!?” Why? Because a couple of times you’d told Silas he’d be better solo, and joked about it with Payne in earshot? Surely Payne wasn’t so shallow to think that you’d have the power to influence his decision. For Payne, however, this was completely different and that argument burned in the back of his head. Why would you want to leave!? Where are you gonna do better than this-!? Y/N! Y/N?! What about her?! If she can do it, so can I! She’s talked about it for so long, I want to try! Try- but when you fail you’ll come crawling back F**k that – I don’t need this anymore! You’re ALWAYS going to need this Silas! Don’t be so f**king stupid! But he’d headed off anyway. And now all Payne had heard was that you were riding around with him. And you were renowned for always doing everything alone. So it didn’t take him long to put the obvious two and two together – so of course he was mad at you. “You’re the reason he left – he had the balls to say that to my face! So don’t you be acting all f**king innocent.” “Well that’s HIS fault! Not mine! I didn’t force him to go Payne!” "Are you f**king him too-!?"

Suddenly your anger meter hit zero. Your stance slacked and you tilted your head; that’s what this temporary moment of insanity was about. Somewhere on the wind he’d caught that you were travelling with his ex-best-friend (probably.) and he’d come to the wrong conclusion. That wasn’t something to be angry about, that was just kinda funny. He wasn’t angry Silas had left; he was angry that Silas could be sleeping with you. You raised an eyebrow, trying your best not to laugh at him; "You get some funny ideas sometimes…" Your response was so far out of left field that he also dropped his stance; “…W-What?” He expected you to deny it, to deny it whether it be true or not. Or maybe you’d confirm it. He didn’t expect that. You shook your head gently, smiling “Why the hell would I wanna do that when I have you?” “Well why the hell else would you be travelling with him-!?” You took a few steps forward, “Because he wanted to know the ins and outs of doing this solo… Which makes sense, cuz you’ve been part of this thing since you were all late teens right? Given he’s just a little younger…”  You gave a shrug “I mean, granted he couldn’t really ask to learn for anyone better…” “Oh, uh huh?” You indicated to his group, now one down; “I guess they’re pissed cuz I’m the reason he left. You know, the actual kinda good reason to get annoyed at me.” You kept walking to him “But, y’know… Still not my problem.” You stopped just short of close. Looking between those blue eyes that were still stormy; he hadn’t exactly calmed down yet. “Do you think I would be so unfaithful?” “You’re out here alone, what’s stopping you?” You shrugged, figuring Payne could use a shot to his ego; “Where out here is anyone gonna even come close to what you do to me?” “Well, what do you do when you…” His eyes flicked down your body for a moment, but you could see they were already clearing; “…Don’t have me…?” “Oh…” You bit your lip, “That’s easy… I just… think about you…” “Hm…” His face seemed satisfied with the answer; “Still, you ought to prove it to me. Before I start thinking you’re a good liar.” “I am a good liar, I just don’t need to lie to you…” You turned back to his gang “Set them straight, first.” “Oh no, you owe me. I’ll set them straight later.” You leant towards him; “How’s that gonna work? Hey guys, I’m just gonna go f**k a girl you clearly all despise cuz she took Silas from us?” “Yeah.” Payne pulled you into him and pretty soon you were pressed up against him in a kiss with no hope of escape; “Let ‘em think that…” *** You were once again travelling alone. It was just what you did. Maybe you were technically a part of his gang now. From time to time you would travel with them but something about you still loved being solo. You kept in contact- meeting every few days or so (sometimes it’d be weeks… or months… but they killed. And you tried not to count them) as you arched in wide circles, wherever that took you. Sometimes whatever you were doing or whoever you were tracking interested Payne enough to split from his group and join you. Only if it was quick though. He never liked to be split for too long, and you liked that about him. You liked a lot about him, and being with him was easy. You were sure how much his gang really liked you around; considering how much you would flake off. She either is or isn’t one of us… But they seemed to enjoy your company when you were around. “No but honestly, why are you the most badass person here?” Skelly laughed from behind you, making Payne shoot back before you got the chance to open your mouth; “Cuz she’s with me.” “No.” You ran your horse into his to elbow him “You only wish you were as badass as me.” He gave a shrug; “Mmmm… That’s not it.” “I’m gonna push you off that horse in a minute.” Payne scoffed, shaking his head; “I’d like to see you t- HEY-!” only he grabbed your arm and almost pulled you over with him, you had to reign Jett back to keep the two of you steady. “Why the hell do I put up with you?” “Because you love me?” “Mmm… No…” You teased with a grin “That’s not it!” There was a lengthy silence as he glared across at your jab at his jab, but you only turned back to the rest of the group following behind and gave a wink. Upon which they started howling with laughter; “Oh. It’s because they love me more!” you turned to him, tongue out; “Soon it’s gonna be Y/N’s gang!” “Y/N’s gang sounds better!” “Agreed!” “Who is for changing the name!?” You watched him get increasingly more agitated; “SHUT IT ALL OF YOU!!!” You swivelled back to them “Yeah! Listen to your boss!” He tsk’ed “There you go again… Taking sides…” “As long as it’s the right side.” “Is there a right side?” “Between you and your group.” “…I can think of something I’d like to get between…” “I can think of something I’d like you to get between too…” You smirked, causing him to do the same. “Mmm hmmm?” You pointed ahead of you; “Directly in the middle of me and that mountain ridge… that should put you far enough away from my gang…” with a laugh at his defeated breath out. “Sometimes I wonder why I put up with you…” You raised an eyebrow at him; aiming for one last witty remark a you urged your horse on; “I dunno… But the sex is good, right?” You knew you’d hit a nerve by the way he yelled after you. It got lost in the wind now whistling past your ears, but you were almost screaming with laughter. *** Payne awoke alone. That almost didn’t surprise him – he expected to see all your stuff gone; it surprised him more that it wasn’t. Jett was still tethered with his own horse, so you certainly weren’t gone yet. It must have still been late; the stars were still shining. He lay there for a few minutes, but when it was clear you weren’t coming back, he got up. Even in the low light level it was pretty easy to track you; you weren’t looking to stay hidden at any rate. When he found you, you were sitting on the edge of a clearing looking out at the sky. He couldn’t help but smile watching you. He knew you’d never join his crew – you’d never be a part of it. No matter how much he wanted that, no matter how much he would consider you a part of it anyway… You were alone. Your best friend in his crew now operated alone too… The only reason you stayed here was Payne. And he knew that. You weren’t really thinking of anything. Or mindful of anything much either. You always admired how clear and bright the stars were in the Colorado sky. He approached you carefully, so not to startle you. And the first thing you were really aware of was his coat around your shoulders. “It’s cold…” “Mmm… I know…” Your voice was sweet and quiet as you instinctively snuggled into it, pulling it further around yourself. “Leavin’ me again?” Payne smiled and sat with you; watching the way your smile crept across your face, even though your eyes were still firmly fixed on the night sky. “Not yet.” “Then why are you up? It’s late…” “They are so beautiful… I didn’t want to miss ‘em…” “Coulda stayed in camp and still seen ‘em.” You gave a shrug; “It’s quieter here…” “Is that what you like so much about being alone?” He turned his head; to behold the stars also; “The quiet?” “Well. I dunno if I like being alone. I just need it, occasionally.” “Uh huh…” Payne’s blue eyes flicked back to you momentarily as you crossed your legs, sighing gently; “Well, you’re never gonna leave and come with me. Are you.” “I have a responsibility here.” “I know.” “I would if I could. You know that right?” “No, I like that you’re responsible. Someone’s gotta be…” Finally your bright eyes left the stars and turned to him; “You let Silas go.” He looked momentarily defiant that it would be his choice to do so; “He should come back.” “Good luck with that one.”   “Hey, we had a good run. A least I know he can take care of it…” “You care so much, for a man who acts like he don’t care at all.” You leant on your hand for a minute, eyes flicking between his. The stars reflected in them, given the colour, and you realised you had been staring at the wrong thing all this time. He laughed; “Alright – where did that come from. I never said I didn’t care!” “You care about more than a number on a page… If you didn’t you wouldn’t be here… You’d be solo.” “You sayin’ you don’t care?” Payne knew that was a lie. Knew it. “What do you think, hmm?” “I think you like to pretend you don’t. That somehow alone keeps you safe.” He stretched and gazed at your beloved stars again. “It does…” He saw the way you stretched too and tried not to yawn. He’d get you back to bed yet. “Trouble is I can’t stay away from you…” You tipped your body until you head found his shoulder; “Just a mild inconvenience really…” He chuckled, winding an arm around you, and kissed your hair; “Mhn. That’s it.” You shook you head, taking his other hand in yours you shifted again to get more comfortable. “Come on. Come back to bed…” “Aw…” You nuzzled into his neck; making sure to plant a kiss there that had him shivering (and it certainly had nothing to do with the temperature) “Just a little longer.” “You do understand how much ground we gotta cover tomorrow? You better not be asking me for just a little longer then.” “5 more minutes…” You whined into his skin, making him chuckle “What did you just say?” “I love you, idiot.” Payne shook his head; cuddling you close he squeezed your hands gently; “You’re nothing but trouble Y/N…” He placed his head on yours; and looked back to the star-washed horizon. “…But I love you too.”

*** Months Later… Coming back around from your latest solo outing you were bored as hell. Usually you lived for the thrill of drawing quick or hunting men down (especially men who had it in their heads that you couldn’t possible be a good bounty hunter as a woman). HA! Tell that to you and Marimacho. This guy you hadn’t even needed to break a sweat for and it was midsummer. In fact, you probably would even have broken a sweat in Payne’s coat – and damn did you love wearing that whenever possible. So with zero thrills, and your trek back across the hot flat plains of Colorado seeming to stretch out for years, you were glad when you finally spotted shapes upon the horizon. Enough for him and his gang; enough to make your heart jump a little and you spur Jett forward with a smile. The shapes were hazy… But even at this distance you could notice the one that pulled forward. You smirked; Payne. Soon you were galloping across that grass to him, and you didn’t care how it made you look…. Your horse was quick across ground, and always had been. His group always seemed to move slower - which made sense, considering they were a ‘No Man Left Behind’ kinda gang. Which was another reason you had to break away every so often. You were used to covering twice the distance they covered in maybe a third of the time. (And Jett wasn’t used to walking either - despite the respite. You were both restless, you needed to run.) But you always came back, because you missed him too much. Being away was nice, but being with Payne was better. As you galloped ever closer those figures on the horizon line came into focus. And with them, the knowledge that one had pulled significantly further ahead than the others, at pace.  You’d run to him plenty of times, even if sometimes nonchalantly. Even if sometimes you appeared out of thin air you were always running to him. When you could hear the sound of his horse you slowed up. Pulling all the way back to a walk just at the point you reached him. But your horses were both excitable - as an extension of their riders feeling; and they danced around each other in greeting. You hushed Jett, to bring him at least under reign. Reaching just enough to steady Payne’s too, although you knew he was in control. Pulling yourself back in, you brushed your hand against his, the touch was enough. But altogether not enough.

Payne wore a broad grin; “It’s been a while!” “Well you know how it is...” His horse was still, so you rounded him, looking him over “... Do one job... pick up about 5 others...” “Bounty must be good?” You smirked, if he still thought he was getting his hands on any money from jobs you did solo he had another thing coming... “It’s not bad... I’ll give it that...” He laughed “We still aren’t getting anything out of you.” “Bold assumption, but correct...” you slowed the walk, so Payne’s eyes could follow yours, that beautiful haunting blue that tailed you everywhere... “unless you or you...” you indicated to the group “are a part of this I don’t see why I should share...” “Because we’re a team.” “Are we?” You smirked “I thought we only teamed up on special occasions...” “I consider you a member of this group...” “Because we’re ‘together’?” You laughed; “Baby, if I considered myself a real part of this gang, I’d never leave.” “Maybe you shouldn’t.” “Please... we’re both smarter than that...” He turned to keep following your horses walk “Ah, but you always come back.” “Maybe that’s because I love you.” “Love, huh?” “I said maybe...” You pulled your horse closer to his “But maybe it isn’t love... maybe I just need a little bit of affection sometimes.” “Oh. Because that’s all it is...” Payne was smirking now too “Never forget what I said.” “Never forget no matter how true, I’m not a possession and you are good company.” “If you’re suggesting I’m not anything more than a warm body...” He had you laughing again “And what will you do if I am?” “Prove you wrong.” “Honey, I ought to tell you there’s no profit in the business of proving me wrong... only loss.” “That so?” “Mmm hmm...” you stopped Jett and once again pulled yourself closer, so Payne’s leg brushed against yours. He tried not to visibly swallow at the contact. Needy but never saying it, you liked that - it made you feel in control no matter how much that wasn’t true. “Besides, you always talk like one day I won’t turn on you and collect yours...” “Mine?” He chuckled, “she says, mine is hardly worth it - they’ll have to up it before people decide on doing that.” “Because you got a gang of people... that’s the only reason.” “Yours on the other hand...” “Baby, you said it yourself you’ve had plenty of times you could have turned me in, never have.” “Maybe I just like a warm body.” “Well there are plenty of easier women, you could have the money and ask them...” For once he didn’t have a smart come back; but his eyes warned you to stop, which only made you smirk more and opt to continue. “But... they didn’t think of one thing... the people who are too afraid to try collecting on you...” “Oh? And what’s that?” “What happens when they get you away from your gang.” Suddenly Payne was aware of a gentle pull around his torso and he realised exactly what you’d done. You hadn’t put your hand out to steady his horse, you’d intended to rope him up. “Oh you have got to be f**king kidding...!” You laughed “No... sorry baby, this could be the end of the line...” “If I yell right now...” he growled “What and have them kill me? Baby you’d miss out on all the fun...” you winked “But you can keep talking to me in that tone...” Your voice lowered seductively; “Unfortunately - I just couldn’t...” you pulled hard on the rope and he slipped forward so he had to lean into you. There was just about enough slack for him to be able to steady himself; but the only option there was placing his hand on your thigh. You regarded him with interest for a moment; looking a little angry, out of control, helpless. Not a position he liked. Too bad you did.

You brushed your lips teasingly to his, ghosting, barely touching. Perhaps torture for both of you, but you were in control. When he tried to create a kiss, a real kiss, you simply pulled yourself back. That earned you a whine, a real whine. Frustrated. And it gave you your own rush. “Mmm... that’s better.”

--- @wrenx02 - Thank you my darling for inspiring this! Here is your part 2! 💙💜

As ever, Mendo Squad! @dennismitchell @krnncsbtch @happyskywhale

❤