#rdr2fanfic

[laurynlovesliterature]

My OC Rosemary Morgan ♥️

(Not the best at drawing but I did my best. I'm so open and willing to receive advice)

Read the fan fic I wrote about her and her epic quest for revenge here:

An Archive of Our Own, a project of the Organization for Transformative Works

[paradox-valleyy]

Lost and Found

Pre-canon rdr 2 x Teen!fem!oc

Prologue | Chapter 1

Word count: 2,8k

Note: I don’t know if anyone will actually like this, but I tried to do something new.

Summer, 1895, Western America

The midday sun scorched the earth beneath its relentless heat, a blinding gold disk high in the pale blue sky. Even the wind had given up, leaving the streets of the small western town dry and desolate. A fine layer of dust clung to everything, swirling briefly in the occasional stir of movement but settling back quickly. Horses shuffled lazily in front of saloons and shops, flicking their tails to ward off flies. A dog lay panting in the shade of a porch, barely lifting its head as a boy walked by.

Joel was twelve—maybe. He didn’t know exactly, well that’s what he told everyone around her. Since actually, Joel was Jolene, a 15-year-old girl, who hid her identity to make surviving easier. She trudged down the town’s narrow main street, her head low but her eyes alert, scanning for anything or anyone that might pose a threat. Or an opportunity. Her light brown eyes, sharp despite their weariness, flicked from person to person, catching glimpses of tired faces under wide-brimmed hats, leather boots caked in dust, and the occasional glint of coins as men passed money over to shopkeepers or into saloon bartenders’ hands.

The girl’s stomach growled audibly. She hadn’t eaten in two days—three, maybe—and hunger gnawed at her like a desperate animal. Her body was all wiry limbs and bones, stretched too thin by starvation. Her skin, tan from the harsh sun, was smeared with dirt, and her short-cropped light blonde hair stuck to her forehead in sweat-soaked clumps. She wore a pair of trousers several sizes too big, cinched at the waist with a fraying length of twine, and a torn shirt that hung loosely off her small frame. Her torn boots dragged along, accustomed to the rough ground.

The scar across her face was old, though it still itched sometimes, stretching from the center of her forehead down through her right brow, ending just above her eyelid. People often asked about it, wondering how she’d gotten it, but Jolene never offered explanations. Out here, survival spoke louder than words.

Her path brought her to the general store, a worn building with weather-beaten signs and dusty windows. The storekeeper was an old man with a calm demeanor, but Jolene had learned long ago how to be invisible in places like this. She could slip in, slip out, and no one would be any wiser.

The girl pushed the door open, a bell above it jingling softly as she stepped inside. The cool, stale air of the store washed over her, a brief respite from the oppressive heat outside. Shelves lined the walls, stocked with everything from canned goods to tools, clothing to medicine. Jolene’s eyes went immediately to the counter, where the shopkeeper, Johnson, sat hunched over a ledger, muttering under his breath as he tallied numbers.

Jolene approached slowly, her hand already fishing in her pocket for the few coins she had. She barely had enough to buy anything, but that didn’t matter. She was after something else entirely. She picked up a small pack of gum from the counter and tossed her coins next to it.

“How much?” she asked, her voice hoarse from the dry air.

The shopkeeper glanced up, squinting at Jolene. “Two cents,” he grunted.

Jolene pushed the coins forward, making a show of counting them out, as her other hand slipped toward the shelf beside the counter where salted meats hung. Her fingers brushed against one of the packets, and with a quick, practiced motion, she swiped it, tucking it into the loose folds of her shirt.

She picked up her gum and pocketed it. “Thanks,” she mumbled, backing away toward the door. The shopkeeper barely looked at her, already turning back to his ledger as he muttered “Take care.” Jolenej pushed the door open and stepped back into the sun, her heart pounding with adrenaline.

Outside, she slipped into the narrow alley beside the store, crouching behind a stack of crates. She pulled the packet of salted meat from her shirt, tore it open with trembling hands, and bit into it. The salt stung her dry mouth, but the taste was heavenly. She chewed slowly, savoring each bite, her stomach finally calming as it felt the first touch of food in days. She wiped her mouth with the back of her hand, then tucked the rest of the meat into her pocket for later.

Once she was done eating, Jolene wandered back onto the main street, moving carefully now, her sharp eyes darting around as she spotted potential marks. There was always someone drunk in this town no matter the time, or just plain stupid—people who didn’t keep a close eye on their wallets or purses.

She spotted a man leaning heavily against a post outside the saloon, a half-empty bottle of whiskey dangling from one hand. His jacket was unbuttoned, and Jolene could see the bulge of a coin pouch hanging loosely from his belt. The man swayed slightly, his head lolling forward, and Jolene’s pulse quickened. This was an easy mark.

As she moved closer, keeping to the shadows, Jolene reached out, her hand just inches from the pouch, when a voice called out behind her.

“Joel!”

She froze, her heart jumping into her throat. For a split second, she thought she’d been caught, but when she turned, she saw a familiar figure standing on the porch of the doctor’s office across the street. Dr. Avery, the town’s doctor, was waving at her, his face a mix of curiosity and kindness.

Jolene hesitated, glancing back at the man with the coin pouch, but she knew better than to risk it now. She took a step back and quickly crossed the street to where Dr. Avery stood.

“Afternoon, Doc,” Jolene said, trying to sound casual despite the nerves buzzing in her chest.

Dr. Avery smiled, wiping his hands on his apron. He was a tall, lean man with sharp features, his dark hair streaked with gray at the temples. He had a habit of looking at people like he could see right through them, and Jolene always felt a little uneasy under his gaze. But the doctor had never treated her with anything but kindness, and in a town like this, that counted for something.

“You look like you could use a little work,” the doctor said, his eyes glancing over Jolene’s dirty, torn clothes. “Got a job for you, if you’re interested.”

Jolene’s eyes lit up. “What kind of job?”

“I need some herbs. They grow out by the river, near the edge of the woods. Won’t take you too long to collect ’em, and I’ll pay you for your trouble.”

Jolene nodded eagerly. Work was hard to come by, especially for someone like her, and she couldn’t pass up the chance to earn some real money. “What do you need?”

Dr. Avery pulled a small cloth bag from his pocket and handed it to Jolene. “Burdock Root, mostly. You’ll know it when you see it—grows near the water. Bring back as much as you can, and I’ll pay you fair. Just don’t take too long. Sun’s only getting hotter.”

Jolene took the bag, nodding. “I’ll be quick, Doc.”

The doctor gave her a nod. “Good lad. I’ll be waiting.”

Without another word, Jolene turned and headed for the outskirts of town, the dust kicking up beneath her boots as she hurried toward the river. She’d been to the riverbank plenty of times—it was a quiet spot, a small, winding stretch of water that cut through the valley just beyond the town. The woods nearby were dense, thick with towering pines and scrub brush, but the river itself was a peaceful place, far enough from town that no one bothered you.

As Jolene made her way through the dry brush, the sun beat down on her, making her sweat through her shirt. She wiped her brow with her sleeve, squinting against the brightness. The ground sloped downward, and soon the sound of trickling water reached her ears. The river came into view, its clear, cool waters a stark contrast to the dry, dusty land around it. Jolene smiled despite herself, the sight of the water offering a brief sense of relief.

She crouched down by the water’s edge, dipping her hands into the cool current and splashing her face and neck. The water felt like heaven against her skin, washing away the dust and grime. She took off her boots, lifted her pants to her thighs, and stood in the river, the water reaching up to her knees, and for a moment, she allowed herself to relax. She looked around for the herbs Dr. Avery had asked for and soon spotted clusters of it growing near the water, their bright green leaves standing out against the rocky shore.

Jolene got to work quickly, crouching down to pull out handfuls of the roots, stuffing them carefully into the cloth bag. The sun was rising higher, and she could feel the heat pressing down on her, but she kept at it, her mind focused on the promise of payment.

As she worked, something caught her eye in the distance—a small caravan moving into the trees on the other side of the river. Jolene paused, crouching lower in the water as she watched the caravan wind its way through the woods. They were far enough away that they hadn’t noticed her, just a small, ragged figure kneeling by the riverbank. The caravan seemed like an odd sight—there wasn’t much reason to be heading into those woods unless you were looking for trouble or trying to hide from it.

Jolene watched them for a few moments longer, curiosity tugging at her, but eventually, she shrugged and turned back to her task. Whatever business those people had, it wasn’t her concern. She had her own survival to worry about.

The afternoon wore on, and the sun climbed higher, its heat becoming more oppressive as Jolene worked, her fingers swift and steady as she filled the small bag with roots. Her shirt clung to her back, damp with sweat, and she could feel the sunburn setting into her neck and arms. But it didn’t matter—she was nearly done, and the thought of the coins jingling in her pocket by the end of the day kept her going.

Finally, when the bag was full, Jolene stood up, brushing her dirty hands on her trousers. She looked back across the river where the caravan had vanished into the woods, a lingering curiosity tugging at her. What kind of people went off the main trails and into the thick, untraveled forest? Bandits, maybe—or strangers passing through, just looking for a quiet place to camp. Either way, it wasn’t her problem. Not yet, at least.

Jolene began the trek back to town, moving at a brisk pace despite the heat. The walk was mostly uphill, and by the time she reached the outskirts, her legs ached, and sweat dripped down her face. The sight of the town made her feel a strange sense of relief and weariness all at once. She didn’t belong here, exactly, but it was the closest thing she had to a home right now.

She headed straight for Dr. Avery’s office, trying not to look too eager as she pushed open the door. The doctor was inside, bent over his desk, scribbling in a notebook. He glanced up when Jolene entered, his sharp eyes taking in her dusty clothes and sweaty face.

“You’re quick,” Dr. Avery remarked, setting down his pen. He held out a hand for the bag, and Jolene handed it over, watching as the doctor inspected the contents with a practiced eye. “Good work,” he murmured, nodding in approval.

The doctor turned to a small wooden drawer and pulled out a canteen, pressing it into Jolene’s hands. “Here, take a drink. You look like you’ve been to the desert and back.”

Jolene took the canteen gratefully, tipping it back and gulping down the cool water. It tasted faintly of metal, but to her, it was the best drink she’d ever had. When she was finished, she handed the canteen back, wiping her mouth on her sleeve.

Dr. Avery reached into his pocket and pulled out a small wad of cash. He counted out five dollars and placed it in Jolene’s outstretched hand. Her eyes widened at the sight of the money. Five dollars was more than she’d expected; it was enough for several meals, maybe even a new shirt if she bargained hard enough.

“Thank you, Doc,” she said, the gratitude clear in her voice.

The doctor smiled faintly, his gaze softening. “You earned it, Joel. Hard work deserves fair pay.”

Jolene nodded, tucking the money carefully into her pocket. She didn’t linger, giving Dr. Avery a short nod before heading out the door. As she stepped back into the blinding afternoon sunlight, she felt the cool weight of the money against her thigh, a comforting reminder that, for now, she’d have a little bit of security.

Jolene settled into an alley. The money she’d just pocketed was a comfort, and the shadow of the alley hid her from the biting sun. She nibbled on the last bite of her salted meat, savoring every grain of salt, every scrap of toughness.

As she leaned back, the sound of footsteps reached her ears. She didn’t startle—she’d learned long ago how to stay calm, even when it felt like someone was creeping up on her. Glancing down the alley, she saw a familiar figure lumbering toward her.

Mr. Doyle, the town’s gunsmith, was a tall, heavyset man with a face weathered by the sun and dusted with soot. He looked about ready to burst, his whole posture screaming the need for relief. He barely even registered Jolene as he staggered to the far corner of the alley and, with a muttered curse about the “damn hot day,” got to the business of taking a piss.

Jolene smirked a little and kept her gaze pointedly elsewhere, deciding the best thing she could do was make herself as invisible as possible. Once done, Doyle exhaled a loud sigh of satisfaction, tucking himself back in place and pulling out a cigarette from his breast pocket. He struck a match, bringing it to his lips, and took a long drag before finally noticing Jolene in the shadows.

“Ah, Joel. Sneakin’ around as usual, I see,” Doyle said with a half-smile, leaning against the wall. His voice was gruff, but there was a friendly note under the rough edges.

Jolene grinned back, chewing the last bit of meat. “Not sneakin’, just resting.”

Doyle nodded, taking another pull on his cigarette and letting the smoke drift upward. He eyed the scrap of meat in Jolene’s hand with a quirked brow. “You didn’t happen to lift that from old Johnson’s store, did ya?”

Jolene shook her head, pulling out on of the bills from her pocket. “I bought it fair, with the money Doc Avery gave me. He had me collect some herbs by the river.”

Doyle let out a chuckle, his laugh rough and deep. “Well, well. Look at you, an honest working man. Keep that up, and maybe you’ll even make something of yourself one day.” He took another drag, eyeing Jolene with a blend of amusement and something that might have been respect.

Jolene gave a small shrug, a faint smile tugging at the corner of her mouth. “Guess I’ll have to keep the work comin’ to make that happen.”

The gunsmith chuckled again, flicking the ash from his cigarette. “You’re all right, kid. Stay out of trouble, yeah? Doc Avery’s got a soft spot for ya, and who knows? You stick around, keep workin’—maybe life won’t be so rough on you after all.”

With that, Doyle gave a casual wave and walked off, his boots crunching softly on the dusty ground as he disappeared back onto the street.

Jolene leaned back against the wall, still feeling the cool weight of the coins and bills in her pocket. She didn’t trust people too easily, but Doyle’s words settled in the back of her mind like a small, stubborn spark of hope. For the moment, life was simple. She had enough money to get by for the next few days, maybe even buy herself a small meal or two.

As long as she stayed smart, stayed quiet, and kept her head down, she could survive. And for a girl like her, survival was enough.

Jolene glanced up at the sky, watching as the colors shifted, orange and pink slowly blending into the deep purple of night. Her life was a patchwork of dusty streets and stolen shadows, but at least it was hers. And for now, that was just fine

[hillbillyhipster84]

(Arthur goes back to camp after losing his fight with the Saint Denis Vampire)

Arthur: hello everyone. So, uh, fellas, I’m a vampire now.

Dutch: …drama queen

Hosea: you trying to tell us something?

Bill: I-I know! It means he’s a fairy, right? I knew it

Mary-Beth: oh how romantic!

John: that mean’s he sucks goat blood, right Javier?

Javier: … (walks away)

John: what?

Trelawny to Charles: we agree this makes him more sexy, yes?

Charles: (nods) yup

Arthur: what you two talking ‘bout?

Trelawny: how closeted Bill is.

Bill: WHAT?! Naw uh! Charles?

Charles: (shrugs) pretty much

(Bill storms off)

Dutch: Wait! We can work with this!

Hosea: Bill being gay or-

Dutch: No! Arthur’s a vampire.

Arthur: … how?

Dutch: okay, he got bit, yeah? So I’m thinking…

(The next night)

-Dutch during the Brontë abduction

Dutch: (licking his bloody fingers as he throws Bronte’s lifeless body the ground) See, I told y’all I had a plan.

Arthur: (looking super uncomfortable) Dutch, uh… turns out I’m not really a vampire. Guy who bit me, just happened to be a lunatic. So, I didn’t actually turn you into a vampire.

Dutch: hmmm…

Bill: see I told you he’s a fairy!!

[fandomficsnstuff]

Spanish Lessons

Javier Escuella x Reader

Warnings: Micah being Micah

Spanish: 

Mi amor, estás muy distraída - My love, you are very distracted

Hermosa - Beautiful

Princesa - Princess

You tried to concentrate, you really did, but it didn't exactly help that Micah was trying to sour your mood no matter what. So lost in thought were you that you only heard Javier when he gently shoved your shoulder ”aye, hermosa, you lost somewhere in that pretty head of yours?” he gave you one of those cheeky smirks that made you smile and feel better, no matter what.

Gently shaking your head with a small smile, you looked at your hands, your soft smile fading slowly ”I guess...”

Javier hummed low ”do you want to talk about it or continue our lessons?” he gave you a slightly worried look, but you shook your head ”no, sorry, where did we come to?” you forced a smile, and you almost thought he bought it, if it wasn't for him narrowing his eyes at you slightly, before going back to teaching you spanish. A few days ago you had finally gathered up the courage and asked him to teach you, you wanted to know what he sang about in his song, they were so beautiful even though you had no idea what he said. And he luckily agreed. So here you were, sitting on a rock by the water at Clemen’s Point, the gang’s new camp, for now.

“‘Kay, now we’re working on simple questions, such as ‘where can I buy some fruit?’ Can be helpful to know and it’s a good starting point” you nodded as you listened, you maybe focused a bit too much on his lips moving. They looked so soft… but Javier noticed you spacing off again and chuckled lightly.

“Mi amor, estás muy distraída” he held back a laugh at your confused expression, furrowing your brows at him as you tried to remember what word meant what. 

“I’m.. sorry?” you looked at him in utter confusion and he just smirked “see, hermosa, if you’d only been paying attention to my lessons” his casual smirk grew into a mischievous one.

“I was paying attention! I was just… not… acting like it” you mumbled the last part as you blushed and looked back down at your hands in your lap “princesa, can you please tell me what has you so distracted?” he moved a bit closer and you bit your lip, contemplating if you should tell him, he would kill Micah, for sure. After a few seconds you sighed and looked further away from him “it was just something Micah said, I’m a big girl I can handle it Javier” you looked back at him and saw a mix of confusion and anger, the first because he wanted to know what Micah said, and the second because he wanted to know what Micah said.

“What did he say, mi amor?” he spoke in a very gentle tone despite the anger in his eyes over whatever Micah would have done, again.

“He was just rude, Javi, nothing else, as I said I’m a big gi-”

“What was it?” he interrupted, and you knew he just wanted to know instead of going around not knowing.

“He… he called me some nasty things.. nothing more, I told him off” you frowned when Javier looked oddly calm “it’s really not worth repeating” you added quickly, worried about his calm state as he looked at the ground. Maybe he was gonna relax about this, maybe he wouldn’t go to Micah and do somethi-whoops he got up, suddenly walking towards Micah, his knife spinning effortlessly between his fingers. You quickly got up and tried to catch up to him “Javier! Don’t!” you whispered harshly as you almost reached him, but he had already reached Micah who sat at a table, laughing as he had just finished insulting Miss Grimshaw, who sadly hadn’t shot him.

“Hey sheep-fucker!” Javier yelled to catch Micah’s attention, and catch it he did. Just as Micah was about to respond, probably with something that involved the word ‘greaser’, Javier plunged his knife into the table, the blade between Micah’s fingers, slightly having cut the skin, causing him to bleed. Micah stared at Javier with what you could only describe as a moment of pure fear.

“Next time you wanna talk to my princesa, think again, I don’t ever wanna hear you speak another word to her again unless it’s respectful, if you otherwise know how to do that” Javier hissed in a frighteningly low and calm sounding voice. Micah just stared at Javier with wide eyes, finally, for once, speechless as Javier simply removed his knife and went back to you, placing his arm on your lower back as he led you back to the spot you were in before. 

“Javier!” You meant to try and scold him, but it came out more as a small laugh. Javier simply shrugged and sat you down before sitting himself back down on the rock.

“Now” he smirked at you “where were we, princesa?”

[porkchop-ao3]

A Thrill I’ve Never Known (Chapter 66)

Where Next?

Thanks for your patience guys ❤ This one is pretty short, I'm sorry about that, but there is action coming, promise. I hope you'll enjoy this chapter with cute little Jack 😊

Tagging @emily-strange and @actuallyhansolo​​ ❤

(All chapters tagged with #ATINK and also posted on Ao3, username PorkChop)

-

I didn't see much of Arthur for a couple of days. Things were strange at the camp, there was no sense of permanence at all, there was plenty of talk about what next, where next? Some people had their answers, but mostly the camp was quiet with everyone in their own bubble of quiet contemplation. Everything had fallen apart in a matter of days and suddenly everyone had to figure out what to do next. 

I just waited patiently, doing what I could for the group. I hunted and provided some meat for everyone to fill their bellies with, it helped us to keep warm. It wasn't the toastiest of locations, so far north, but it would do until we had our plan. 

Arthur had spent the past two days with Charles. They had broken Eagle Flies out of prison after nightfall and they were up first thing the following day to be with Rains Fall. He was meeting with the army; things were not good and he was hoping to salvage some sort of deal or relationship of trust. That's where they were as I was sitting by the fire, wrapped up in a blanket and keeping an eye on Jack for John and Abigail, who were nearby discussing their plan. All I knew of it was they were wanting to get as far away from this place as possible. I wondered if we would ever see them again, or if they would keep on going further and further until the only evidence we'd ever have of their existence was a letter in the post once or twice a year. It made me sad to think about it, but I couldn't for one second protest it. We couldn't have much of a happily ever after, not after the things we'd done. We just had to make the best of things. 

"What're you doing, Jack?" I called out when I saw him wandering a little too close for comfort to one of the geysers.

"Just looking," he shouted back to me, though he stopped and turned around to smile at me. He was still smiling. It astounded me, honestly, he'd taken everything so well. 

He did ask about Dutch once or twice, wondering when we were going back to him. Abigail was usually the one to tell him the truth, but softly, carefully, while John and the rest of us sat tongue tied, unable to think of the right words to satisfy a four year old in such a situation. Jack usually responded with silence, and I couldn't tell if his silence was a signal of sadness or indifference.

I watched the boy as he picked up a pebble from the ground and then eyed up the geyser. I knew what his question was going to be before he opened his mouth. 

"What would happen if I threw this inside?" He called. I exhaled a chuckle and went to answer, though the words got stuck. I didn't actually know.

"Uhh," I vocalised cluelessly, "I s'pose it'd shoot back out again." 

"Can I try it?" 

"Best not," I chuckled, "the speed that thing would come out– I don't know. I wouldn't if I were you, sweetie. What if it falls down and bops you on the noggin?"

"I'd be okay," he assured me, and I cocked my brow a little. 

"Your momma might not be, I'm supposed to be looking after you. I imagine she'd toss me in there if you got hurt on my watch. C'mere." 

He kept hold of the pebble but did as he was asked, and came trotting over to me with a pair of rosy cheeks.

"Sit by the fire, okay? It's freezing out here, ain't you cold?" 

"No," he told me, his tone was high and it was very obviously untrue.

"Your nose'll drop off if you ain't careful," I warned, a little smirk on my face. He touched his pink nose and considered it for a moment. 

"It didn't fall off when we were in the snow." 

"The snow?" 

"With Uncle Dutch and Hosea, and everyone else. Before you were here," he said, gazing down at the rock in his hand, scratching at a piece of mud caked onto it until it gathered under his fingernail. He wiped it on his trousers.

"Ohh," I nodded, I'd heard about it before, their short stop at Colter after the Blackwater fiasco. "Wow, seems like a long time ago, I bet. You've been to so many places since then, ain't you?"

He hummed his agreement and nodded, not looking up at me. 

"You like going to different places?" 

"I guess so," he shrugged, "but sometimes I get bored." 

I chuckled, "yeah, I think we all do," I smiled at him and stroked his hair for a moment. It was feathery soft and light, and I sighed at his innocence. Such a sweet boy. I had no doubt that Abigail and John loved him and were the best parents they could possibly be to him, but I wished he'd had more normal beginnings in life. And I hoped he'd forget some of the awful things he must've seen and heard. 

"How're you feeling, about going away with your ma and pa?" I asked him. 

"I don't know."

"You don't know?" I repeated, leaning my head on my fist as I leaned forward and down to his level. 

"We're going away. Uncle Arthur, and you, and Sadie won't be there? And all the others?"

"No, sweetheart, we won't. But I'm sure it won't be the last you'll see of all of us, hm? Right now, your mama and papa only wanna take you someplace safer, you understand that, don't you?" I asked softly and he sighed, his little shoulders jerking with it.

"I guess so," his voice was small and I gave his shoulder a little squeeze. 

"Keep your chin up, little prince. Your parents love you to the moon and back, a million times over. You're gonna be okay," I smiled at him, even though he was staring at the rock. I considered it for a moment. "Can I see that?" 

He looked up at me in question, and noticed that I was looking at the rock. He paused for a second before handing it over. I inspected it for a moment, it looked much smaller in my hand than it did in his but it still filled up most of my palm. I clutched it tight in my hand, then looked at Jack as I kissed my knuckles. I closed my eyes for a few moments, and I heard him giggle. 

"What're you doing?" He questioned and I scrunched my face up, shushing him softly. 

"I'm concentrating," I murmured, and continued the performance for a few more moments, his giggles continuing until I slowly cracked one eye open, and then the other. 

"What did you do?" He stood up and turned to me, his hand going to mine, trying to pry my fingers from the stone, his cheeks round and rosy with his grin. 

"I filled it with my love Jacky, and a little extra that I got from Karen, Mary Beth, Tilly, Hosea, Kieran, Molly, Sean, Mr Trelawny, Reverend Swanson, Mr Pearson, Uncle…" I made a show of gasping for a breath after listing off so many names, then swallowed before deciding to mention the names which followed, "and Javier and Bill too, and Mr Strauss… and Dutch." 

My voice had wavered and I needed a second to compose myself. I cleared my throat, and was grateful that Jack was preoccupied by looking at the grey lump of rock in my hand. It was warm from my body heat and he gasped a little when he took it from me, marvelling about it's temperature.

"But it's a big rock. Plenty of room for more love. How 'bout you ask everyone to hold on tight to that rock, and put all their love and care into it. So, as long as you've got that, you'll be safe, and you'll be able to remember all of us and know that we ain't ever leaving you, not in our hearts." 

"Okay!" He did a little jump and squeezed the rock in his hand again, holding it to his chest with the biggest smile I'd seen all year. It warmed my heart despite the freezing temperatures. I glanced up to where Lenny was sat wrapped up in his winter coat, a book in his gloved hands. 

"Why don't you go ask Lenny if he don't mind taking a break from reading?" I suggested, and Jack immediately spun around and ran over to him. 

I watched him from a distance, as he excitedly explained the concept. Lenny chuckled and looked up at me from across the camp. He put his book down, laced his fingers together and pushed them out to stretch out his hands before giving them a shake and rocking his head from side to side, limbering up before taking the rock from Jack and cupping it tightly between both hands and squeezing it as hard as he could, eyes intently focused on them. I grinned and laughed to myself, loving his commitment to making the boy smile. I knew everyone would be just as eager to please, not afraid of making a fool of themselves. 

For the rest of the afternoon Jack went around the camp asking people to contribute to the pebble. I was glad to have given him something to amuse him, and perhaps something to remember us all by, even if it was just a simple rock. It would be nice if he remembered us all each time he looked at it, if it didn't get lost along the way during whatever trips he and his parents were about to embark on. 

In the late afternoon Arthur came back. Charles was not by his side but he quickly reassured us that he had simply gone to visit the Wapiti Reservation after the negotiations hadn't exactly gone to plan. I tried not to listen to the details, despite this horrid feeling that built in the pit of my gut as days went by. I kept trying to reason with myself that Arthur had been putting his life in danger far longer than he had known me and had always come out alive. It didn't stop the voice in my head that would whisper about his luck running out…

Before I spiralled into those thoughts I got on with preparing dinner. As long as I had Arthur back in my arms at the end of the day, whatever chaos had found him while he was gone was not worth thinking about. Torturing myself was not going to help anyone, especially not Arthur, who would no doubt grow tired of my whittling about his well being. I just had to keep telling myself that soon this would all be over. 

–

"Canada, I'm thinking. Would be their best chance. They can't stay here much longer after all of that mess we left behind after the negotiations today," Charles was saying over his helping of rabbit stew. He'd returned from the reservation, where he'd apparently spent the best part of the evening convincing them to start packing up to leave. "Rains Fall seems hesitant, not that I don't understand him.  They've been moved around enough, all they want is to settle and have peace so they can live."

"Doesn't seem like they'll be able to do that here though," John said, and Arthur murmured a sound of agreement.

"He's coming to terms with that I think. He knows they'll have to move on sooner or later, it's just hard for him to accept right now, even harder for Eagle Flies. He's even more against the idea," Charles replied.

"He's got a lot of passion and fire in him, that man. He ain't quite learned though, that sometimes passion like that can get you killed," Arthur said. Charles silently nodded in agreement and looked down at his plate. "Canada, you say?"

"Canada," Charles nodded. "And I'd go with them."

"Really?" My brows raised. A quick, sharp pain went through my heart as in a second it became reality that the group was splitting up. These people I had lived with for so long and come to love, we were all going separate ways...

"Yeah. I don't have any other ideas," he chuckled a bit, then shook his head and became a little more serious, "I like it, with them. I feel closer to my mother." 

I smiled, comforted by the fact that even if Charles wouldn't be with us, he'd have a family.

"Arthur," I heard from behind. It was Sadie's gravelly whisper and my heart dropped. I knew what she was going to ask. Arthur, sitting beside me around the fire, glanced over his shoulder and nodded. Then he wordlessly leaned over to kiss my temple, and got up. He stepped over the log we sat on and headed away from the group with Sadie.

They were going to the O'Driscolls' hideout. More bloodshed. More danger. I took a breath and met Charles' eyes.

"I'm happy for you Charles. You deserve to be with people who care about you, who'll all keep each other safe. And the fact they also share your heritage, that's even nicer," I smiled at him and he nodded, "when do you think you'll go?"

"Soon as I've convinced them," he chuckled a little again, the corner of his lip lifting. 

"I'll miss you," I told him. It seemed to startle him but only a little, he was often cool and calm and not even surprising words of emotion could throw him off for long. 

"I'll miss you too," he said after a moment, and the words sounded almost like a revelation, like he also hadn't fully wrapped his head around the fact he'd be saying goodbye to us all until now. "We'll write to each other, all of us, yeah?" 

"Definitely," I nodded, my smile widening, "and if I ever find myself in Canada, I'll have a free place to stay, right?" I teased just a little and he laughed. 

"Of course.”

[purplecatdad]

Carry On

Part of the RDR Character Mash I had "Charles Smith" and "Post-Apocalyptic" General Fic | Teens and Up | Zombie-AU | CW for suicidal thoughts AO3 Version It was the fifth day of yet another heat-wave and Charles Smith felt ready to die. He had thought about it before - after his old little colony had been run down by the Zombies, half of them eaten alive and the rest turning into monsters he had to get out on his own. He had been 17 back then. Weeks on his own, falling in and out with other groups but never quite fitting on. It had hardened him and left him with little joy. The marks on his arms still told the stories of the battle with himself, one that he almost had lost weren’t it for some kind strangers who had found him back then. A couple, Dutch and Hosea. They had patched him up and he had ridden with them for a while. Until they had been taken out by the real monsters in this mess - the big communities that were making their own laws. Now he was alone again, his horse Taima his only - and best - companion. But it was hard, living like this. And lonely. He looked at the sun that had started to set. His goal for the day had been to find a source of water as his canteen had run dry by now but so far he didn’t have any luck. The heatwaves had become worse each year, there always was a drought and he hadn’t had time to seek out the north for a few weeks because he had been holed up, staying away from patrols roaming the streets to take in loners as bait for the zombies. Taima snorted, she was tired and as dehydrated as him. They both needed water … but Charles also had to make camp soon. It wasn’t safe to stay out in the dark, especially not alone. Then he noticed something. Smoke on the horizon, signs of a fire. He frowned, wondering how good his chances of a safe encounter would be. It always was dangerous to approach strangers, always a risk. But today it felt like it was worth taking - what had he to lose? He brought Taima to a trot, mumbling an apology to the tired mare. He felt how tired she was and swore to himself that she would get any treat that he could find, just to make up for it. He had to cut through a line of trees to get to the source of the smoke and decided to get down from the horse for that. He didn’t want to seem like too much of a threat. When he was almost through the trees he realized that it was a cabin he was walking towards, one half of the wall torn down but covered with some canvas. “Anybody there?” he called out. He didn’t see anybody but suspected that somebody was watching the fire. Suddenly he felt the barrel of a shotgun, pressed between his shoulder blades. “What’d ya want?” He heard a stranger say right behind him. Charles raised his hands, slowly not to startle him. He was surprised that somebody had managed to sneak up to both him and Taima like that but he suspected it was because of the heat and the exhaustion. “My name’s Charles, I just need some water for my horse and me. Her name’s Taima. We’re just tired.” He spoke in a soft voice, his tone as kind and calm as he could muster. “A horse, pa! Look how pretty!” The voice of a kid, Charles didn’t see him so he had no idea how old he was but he heard the man behind him curse under his breath. “Told ya to stay away, Isaac! This is a stranger!” But Isaac didn’t seem to listen. Charles saw a boy with blond hair walk up to Taima, offering her his hand to smell on. He looked up at Charles for a moment, then his gaze wandered back to his Pa. “He ain’t bad, I can tell, Pa. We have to help them.” The boy said, almost pleading. Charles couldn’t imagine raising a kid like him in this mess and wondered if these two were all alone. “You try somethin’, you’re dead”, he heard the stranger whisper, probably trying to shield his boy from the harsh truth they were living in. “Alright.Thank you”, Charles said and he felt how the gun was taken away from his body. At least for now. “There’s a well behind the cabin, can have a drink there. Got some beans left, too and a bedroll for the night”, the stranger walked around him, eyeing him up before extending his hand. “Name’s Arthur, by the way.” Charles took his hand, offering the stranger a smile. “Nice to meet you, Arthur.”

[norafike]

Despite all this, I still love you 3

How she found herself back here even she did not know. Ever since that night Nora tried avoiding unpleasant spaces, one of those being the very last place she had seen Hixon alive. The area brought back bad memories and she found herself unable to willingly travel by it let alone pass through it. Yet here she was, leading her horse through the swampland as she faced one of her biggest problems.

She looked down at the scorched ground and even Casper began to grow unsettled, letting out whinnies of protest to continue further. She turned towards the stallion, patting his neck firmly in an attempt to calm him down but it only frightened him further for an unknown reason.

Perhaps he too became haunted by Nora's past.

The horse's frantic behaviour began to put Nora in distress as she remembered the cry of the wagon's horses just before the explosion, getting reminded of flying back and thinking all had ended for her there and then in that very moment.

She heard the pain cry from Lem as he thought he was the one to have killed her. But perhaps, Nora was lucky he was there when he had been, otherwise, the fire would have gotten to her regardless.

Speaking softly to her Stallion, she began leading him out of the remnants of that night. Maybe it was so he would calm down once being out of the area or maybe she found an excuse to not face what had been haunting her once again.

As she left the vicinity she remembered just what it was she came this way for, an errand to run for her closest friend before distraction caught her. She let out a quiet sigh before mounting her horse once sure enough that he would not buck her off, firmly patting his neck before riding off towards Rhodes where she believed the nearest general store was.

...

Maybe Saint-Denis was a little closer, she decided. Cutting across the train bridge having provided ample in shortness but it also meant she would have further to travel once she bought the supplies she needed.

She didn't know when she started running errands to and from stores for the Fike's but she noticed how Lem would keep her on her feet daily just to bring in all sorts of provisions and supplies, but maybe it was an excuse to not see her look so glum all the time in the moonshine shack.

Maybe he was just being kind and providing a distraction in the best way he knew how. She weren't so sure.

It had been cans of food and salted meat she had been tasked with getting. The cans primarily for their moonshine business as berries were in no short supply and neither was alcohol.

So a couple cans and a satchel of salted meat was enough to be stored on the back of her horse and Cripps would usually come around weekly with more supplies so it wasn't as though Nora had too much to carry and riding back on Casper would be enough.

She also made sure to buy a few apples for the journey back, figuring her horse would appreciate a treat that was different from the carrots she would give him. She wished she had a wide choice of foods picked out for Casper, but she couldn't always afford an assortment of treats to give him and so wild carrots would suffice for now.

...

"How'd you get on?" Maggie asked as soon as Nora entered the property in which she purchased. The younger woman placed the saddlebags on the counter in the corner and began to remove the items requested before turning towards her boss with a gentle smile. "Good."

"You were gone quite a while, Miss Morgan. Thought you had been killed."

"Well, they ain't got me yet an' I doubt they'll get me any time soon."

Having said this impressed Maggie who gave Nora a nod in silent agree. Once her saddlebags had been unpacked and the provisions ordered were placed on the counter, she said her temporary farewells as she left the building to place the bags back.

"Hey there, Nora." Lem called from behind, walking up to her side with an old guitar in hand.

"You play?"

He looked shy. "Yeah, n-not in front of people."

"Didn't realise you could play."

He walked away to lean the guitar against the wall of the moonshine shack, returning to stand by Nora once more who had taken to treating Casper with an apple she non-verbally promised him.

"Learned a long time ago, still pick it up her an' there but for the most part I don't really like to play no more."

Nora frowned at these words shortly after pulling away from her horse. He bounced back and forth on his feet as he awkwardly stood before her, his hands swaying loosely at his sides. "You were gone a while, run into any problems?"

"One." She answered, walking past to sit on the old bench outside the shack. Lem followed suit, taken to lean against the building and look down at her rather than sit by her side. "Went back to that swampland, where we got Hixon an' Danny-Lee."

"All the way down there?"

"Guess somethin' called me to it." She replied, gently shrugging her shoulders.

He pushed himself from against the wall and walked around to stand in front of her, crouching so he was at her level while she was sitting.

"How'd it go?"

No reply but the saddened expression he received as a response to his innocent question. He didn't need to ask anything more as he already knew the answer, but he still donned a smile. Gently he reached forward and took hold of her hand, giving it a gentle squeeze and rubbing the back of it with his thumb. "For what it is worth, I'm proud of you." He said, his voice calm.

"I went someplace an' you're proud?"

"It's a bad place for you Nora. It's like askin' me to go back to jail an' face what's been troubling me." He began. "Although can't really do that."

She let out a light chuckle just as he rose from the crouching position to finally sit by her side.

"How long were you there for?"

"Couple minutes but I had to leave as Casper here was started to become frightened."

"Or was you frightened?"

"I was uneasy being there but once Casper started to get jumpy I decided to leave."

"For what it's worth, M-Miss Morgan, I'm proud you went there. On your own doing."

"Guess so." She turned to look at him, getting entranced by his blue eyes for a moment that she had forgotten what it had been she was meaning to say.

"Lem."

"Yeah?"

Finally peeling away, she looked down at her hands that lay in her lap. "Just wanted to thank you, f-for bein' so kind to me. Makin' a lot of this better."

"I know you'd do the same for me."

"I hope so."

...

She pushed forward, missing the hail of bullets sent her way from the heavy fire following the agent as he manned the maxim gun.

She grew panicked, knowing it would be near impossible to walk out without a few scrapes and wound from it but she needed to keep trying for Maggie depended on her to do.

Blindly she aimed over the boxes she hid behind and fired her rifle a couple of time's, praying for something to be hit. When the shooting from the gun ceased did she look up to see what little work she had accomplished.

Nobody was there, but she saw a few running back for it.

Taking a deep breath she ran forward, her legs feeling weak and threatening to give way underneath her.

Her lungs burning.

She would say that she was doing this for Maggie, the woman having sent her. But maybe, she was really doing it for Lem.

[redcrownroses]

Capable: Arthur Morgan x F!Reader

Summary: You come up with a good robbery job, except there’s one small problem. Arthur won’t let you do it. You decide to disobey and do it either way but things don't turn out the way you expected them to. FLUFF.

Warnings: Injury, blood, mentions of sex

A/N: This is my first contribution to the fandom! I enjoy writing and I’m always nervous when putting my content out there. But anyways! I love Arthur so much!! I had this idea yesterday and decided to try my hand at it. So far I liked how it turned out. It gets pretty fluffy and sweet towards the end. Hope you guys like it, some feedback would also be greatly appreciated :)

                                        —🌹—

“No it’s far too dangerous for ya to go alone.” Arthur warned as he stared at a map in front of him. You were standing to his side, both hands resting flat on the round wooden table.

“I just think that if I were to go around 2 am it wouldn’t be much of a problem. There's only two guards at that time trust me I know what I’m doin’.” Your eyes bore into him though he kept his gaze fixated on the map.  

“No.” Arthur said firmly. “Besides Javier and I are already plannin’ a robbery so please Y/N just drop it. I have work to do right now.” He heaved a sigh and ran a hand down his face, eyes flickering towards the small lapping waves of the lake. Approaching footsteps made you both turn your heads towards the source. “Ah Javier you’re back.” Arthur didn’t spare you a glance which only caused you to roll your eyes and stomp away. “What’s up with her?” Javier arched a brow and Arthur shook his head. “Ah ya know how she is. Stubborn as always.” Arthur dismissed the subject with a curt wave of his hand and the two men began planning out their robbery.

You huffed as you stormed into your tent. You’ve been planning this out for a while now and it irked you to a great extent that Arthur immediately dismissed it. You know how to defend yourself and you’ve proven time and again that you were a very capable woman. 

Arthur knew that as well. He was just being cautious though. Too cautious this time around. Ever since the both of you started being sweet on one another right after the Blackwater mess you couldn’t help but notice how extra protective he became of you. It was endearing at first, you could admit, but as time passed by it began to bother you. Can’t really blame the man though, he finally found something good and real after everything he’s been through. Losing you would be beyond cruel.

As you sat down on your bedroll and began cleaning your twin pistols you thought about asking Dutch’s opinion on the matter but if he were to find out that Arthur rejected your idea, well, it was more than likely that Dutch would side with his right-hand man. And worse, give that job to someone else. You couldn’t let that happen. This was your goddamn job.

It was then that you decided to go through with it with or without Arthur’s consent. 

Like it’s been noted before, you are more than capable of taking care of yourself and pulling through with a job. You gathered all the necessary belongings you were to bring on your trip and took a peek through the flaps of your tent. You watched as the two men conversed by the round table, Arthur’s back facing you. The golden rays of the setting sun reflected on Arthur’s light brown locks, causing a halo like aura to appear around it. He looked like an angel but sometimes he was a demon. Right now he was definitely the latter. 

You sighed and looked away. As much as it hurt to disobey like this you just knew that this take would be worth it. The more money, the sooner you can all finally get away from this outlaw life. All you needed was to get your hands on that state bond that was worth some thousand dollars. You were fortunate to have come across a drunken man working as a guard at the place you were gonna rob at the saloon not too long ago.

Draping your satchel over your shoulder, you took one last peek from your tent flaps before proceeding to fix your button up shirt and try to appear nonchalant. You stepped outside and headed towards Pearson’s post where he was happily singing one of his many sailor songs as he chopped away for tonight’s dinner. 

“Hey Pearson I’m going into town for a while. Gonna order me a hot bath, gather some new supplies, and snoop around if anyone asks. I’ll be back tomorrow morning.” He nodded with a quick wave of his hand and you made your way towards your horse, Mabel, and hopped on.

                                        —🌹—

The ride to Cornwall Kerosene & Tar went just as expected. You arrived within the time period you had predicted and you hardly came across other lone riders on the way. You climbed off of Mabel, patting her and feeding her a sugar cube. “Good girl,” you smiled up at her and continued petting on her muzzle before moving towards the saddlebag and fishing out some canned beans and meat. You were starving and you still had about two hours until you went into action.

You kicked some dirt onto the campfire and climbed onto Mabel. You checked the time, a half hour left until 2. Perfect. You tugged at the reins and guided your horse towards your destination. 

It took about five minutes to finally get there and you immediately fished out your binoculars from your satchel and surveyed the area. Just how you expected it. Two guards at the front entrance, one making their way towards the back area. 

You hitched Mabel onto a nearby tree and began trekking towards the private property. Once you were closer you took cover behind a large wooden crate.

Just then a guard began rounding the corner and you silently peeked from behind the crate, thankful that there wasn’t good lighting in that area. He quickly scanned the vicinity before pulling out a cigarette and lighting it up. 

You weren’t sure how long he was gonna stay there and began formulating some plan to get past him when all of a sudden you heard the other guard calling for him, apparently he ran out of cigarettes of his own. Guess you just got lucky there. You couldn’t help but feel a bit cocky about that as you stood up and slinked towards the door. 

Upon approaching the upstairs office, you quietly began searching the place for the piece of paper. You searched and searched but you still found nothing. So much for luck. You heaved a soft sigh as you brushed back some flyaways from your forehead. Your eyes landed on a pretty painting hanging on the wall on your right. You knitted your brows together as a thought came across your mind and you stepped towards it. 

You brought your hands up and lifted the painting, you didn’t expect it to be quite heavy and almost dropped it. Breathing heavily, heart pumping quickly, you set it down on the floor carefully before looking back up at the safe box. You grinned. Now to get it open. As you worked your way through it you didn’t hear one of the guards coming upstairs until it was too late. 

“Hey! Stop right there!” You whipped around, eyes wide as dinner plates as the guard pointed his repeater at you. You immediately raised your hands up in surrender. “Just what do you think you’re doing?” 

You were fast as you dodged behind the desk and the guard began to open fire, alerting the other one downstairs. There were some more gunshots and you managed to distribute some of your own. The guard ducked and backed out of the room to take some cover behind the adjacent wall. You took this opportunity to fire a few rounds at the wall and when your heard a yell you knew you hit your target. You then bolted towards the window and opened it. Turning sideways, you swiftly swung a leg out but before you could climb out completely the other guard came into view and fired at you. 

You let out a yelp as you climbed completely out the window, stumbling as you tried to steady yourself. The searing pain now coursed through the right side of your waist. You brought a hand over it and felt your blood immediately soaking your hand. This was bad. Your heard one of the guards yelling and boots stalking towards the window. Without a moment's hesitation you fired a couple of rounds towards the window as you backed up, eyes roaming around you wildly.

 You weren’t sure how you were gonna get down. That is until you heard a couple of gunshots coming from inside the building. Your features pulled back in bewilderment as you backed up against the wall behind you for support. When the gunfire ceased and the only sound heard was those of the insects, you finally allowed yourself to slide down the wall and onto the wooden planks of the roof beneath you.

“Y/N?” The familiar voice filled your ears, and although it was rough and filled with concerned you couldn’t help but smile faintly. “A-Arthur,” you managed to utter weakly. You felt yourself lose strength as the moments passed by. You heard heavy footsteps as they neared the window. Finally you heard him again, this time calling your name firmly as he climbed out the window. You could barely muster enough strength to lift your head up towards him. You felt heavy and you fought hard to keep your eyelids open. 

“Arthur,” you whispered softly, half lidded eyes flickering towards him as he hastily knelt down in front of you. “I—” 

He cut you off softly. “Shhh.” 

He immediately removed your hand from your wound and examined it. It was a good thing that the roof area there was well lit by one of the light posts. 

Arthur emitted a soft sigh of relief as he met your eyes again. “It’s only a graze but you’re bleeding so much. Needa apply some pressure on it.” He spoke softly.

He hurriedly dug through his satchel and took out his bandana before unfolding it to the cleaner area. Despite your hazy state you still noticed that Arthur’s hands were slightly trembling. 

“Here.” He placed it on your side with applied pressure and you let out a whimper as you shut your eyes tightly and gritted your teeth. “You’re gonna be okay, darlin’. You could get through this you’re strong.” He reassured you softly (and at the same time he was also reassuring himself). It helped you calm down a substantial amount. 

A small smile stretched across your pale lips. “I know.” That was the last thing you managed to say before everything went black.

                                       —🌹—

Everything and everywhere ached. You slowly opened your eyes and saw him staring down at you, a sturdy hand entwined with yours. He smiled affectionately and brought your hand up to plant a soft kiss at the back, his other hand caressing your thigh that was covered with a blanket. 

“Ya gave me quite a scare back there, darlin’.” It was almost a whisper and you noticed the slight tremor in his voice. His ocean colored eyes were filled with relief but there was also sorrow. It broke your heart witnessing that. 

“I’m sorry,” you croaked. Arthur shook his head. “You’re safe now.” It was then that your eyes traveled around the room you were in, confusion setting in. Arthur couldn’t help but let out a small chuckle at how adorable you looked at that moment. 

“We’re at the doctor's in Valentine. Wasn’t sure if ya were gonna make the ride here but you were a trooper.”

You tried to sit up but immediately felt pain surging through the right side of your waist. It spread like wildfire across your abdomen. “Don’t.” Arthur warned as he gently placed a flat hand on your stomach. “You’re not gonna be moving for a while.” You frowned momentarily and inspected your patched up wound before looking back at him. 

“How—How did you know?” Arthur smoothed out the white sheets over your body before his gaze settled onto you. 

“I saw you ride out and when Pearson told me you were goin’ into town I knew immediately that was a lie, otherwise you wouldn’t be traveling the opposite direction.” He looked down as he caressed your hand in his. 

“So you knew then.” It was a statement rather than a question and Arthur simply nodded. 

“I dropped everythin’ and immediately rode out. Had a bad feelin’.” You swallowed thickly and felt a pang of guilt. You should have listened to him. Never again would you let your pride get in the way like this. 

“I almost had it,” you spoke quietly. “I swear I did. I just don’t know what happened, why the guard decided to check upstairs at that time. But none of that matters anymore, I guess. I was bein’ foolish. Prideful. And I should’ve listened to you. I guess what I was trying to do was prove myself.” You looked away. “In a way I deserved that.” You felt tears coating your eyes, threatening to cascade at any given movement. Arthur’s hold on your hand tightened.

“No you didn’t, darlin’. You almost died out there—I almost lost ya. I was so scared. And yeah you were acting like a fool goin’ behind my back but never say you deserve something like that ya hear? And darlin’,” his voice grew softer. “I know that you are capable. I’ve seen you fight. You have it in you. Don’t ever think that I’m doubtin’ you because I’m not and I sure as hell never will.”

 A single tear rolled down the side of your cheek and Arthur was swift in wiping it away with his thumb, coaxing you to turn and face him afterwards. 

“But that wasn’t the only reason ya know,” you uttered softly. He nodded and caressed your jaw. 

“I promise ya that we’re gonna get out of this. We’ll find some more money somewhere else and then we can finally build our lives together the way we’ve been wanting to.” 

You couldn’t hold it back anymore. Upon hearing those words the tears began flowing. “Out west?” He nodded, lips curving into a loving smile and you returned the gestured as you sniffled. “Living in a ranch?” 

He chuckled softly. “Yeah, we’ll own a nice lil ranch. And best of all we’ll be married.” 

You giggled softly before speaking again. “And have some mini Arthurs running’ ‘round the house.” He leaned forward slowly, gazing affectionately at you with a smile still gracing his features. 

“And mini Y/Ns too, playin’ everywhere.” His lips met yours tenderly, fingers grazing your jaw before moving up to cup your cheek. You reveled in the moment as he lavished you with sweet, tender kisses. If it were physically possible you would melt right there and then in his strong hold. 

You raked your fingers through his hair and down his neck as the kiss gradually deepened. After a few more moments you pulled back, your breathing labored along with Arthur’s from the activity. “It’s too bad I won’t be able to move or do anything for a while,” you teased and bit your lip as your gaze fell onto his torso, your hands caressing his chest and feeling the muscles underneath his flannel shirt. 

“You teasing me, woman?” Arthur’s voice rumbled deeply, the vibrations could be felt on your palms. 

“I suppose we’ll have to wait until I’m fully healed.” 

Arthur shook his head though there was a smirk that formed on his lips. He leaned down once again, lips hovering over yours and barely brushing up against them in a tantalizing manner. 

“We’ll find a way...” his voice dropped dangerously low and like a switch it instantly fueled your core. His lips finally met yours in a fervent yet gentle manner. It was endearing how he could be so gentle. 

This big scary outlaw was the softest and purest man you’d ever met. Truly, he possessed a heart of gold. And he was yours and you were his. You felt like the luckiest woman on earth. As the both of you continued your sweet romantic endeavor, for a moment you thought that maybe you did die back there and this was the afterlife.