#THIS GOES FOR GRIMSHAW AND THE OTHER LADIES TOO !!!! ONLY BECAUSE THE MEN GET MORE LOVE FROM WHAT I'VE SEEN

[wrylu]

I love when people make (rdr2) OCS that are friends/friendly or have romantic attraction to underrated/not talked about much characters- the ones who get left out of those certain headcanon lists, the ones who have under 150 or so fanfics written with them as the main character, the ones who need more fanart and so on...

[1dmonthlyficroundup]

1D Monthly Fic Roundup

Hi, and welcome to the 1D Monthly Fic Roundup for August 2021! Below you’ll find 23 One Direction fics that were all published this month in the order they were submitted to the blog. We hope you’ll check out these new fics! If you would like to submit your own fic, please check this post on how to submit or visit our blog @1dmonthlyficroundup​.

Happy reading!

He Carries The Key by @lululawrence

[Niall/Louis, OT5, 8k, Not Rated, tumblr post]

Niall was mostly home, ready for a shower and a chat with Louis, when suddenly Niall was flooded with emotions from the pack bond.Shock. Surprise. Confusion.But mostly fear.Something was wrong with Louis.

Plus One by mynameispiaivy / @missrefridgefreetorator

[Louis/Luke Malak, 3k, Mature, tumblr post]

Louis is invited to an event and he has to bring a "plus one".

Better Mistakes by lovelarry10 / @chloehl10

[Harry/Louis, 117k, Explicit, tumblr post]

“Look, this doesn’t have to be the end of the world-”

“Oh but it fucking is,” Louis said, shaking his head. “How the fuck am I going to tell Matt I’m pregnant with a baby when we’ve not had sex in months? He might be a bit thick sometimes, but he is gonna know there’s no chance this baby is his.”

“You don’t have to, uh, tell him it’s mine, right?”

Louis scoffed. “Why, are you scared he’s gonna come and kick the shit out of you?”

“He wishes,” Harry laughed, looking back down at the test. “Shit, I … I can’t believe this. Louis, I didn’t mean for this. Honestly. It was just sex for me. We have great sex, and I didn’t see why I should have to turn that down, not when you clearly wanted it as much as I did. I didn’t want this to end in a baby.”

Louis knows he shouldn’t be sleeping with his boyfriend’s enemy. He knows that. But there’s something that draws him back to Harry over and over again. Falling in love wasn’t part of the plan...

Thou, Sun, Art Half As Happy by @lululawrence

[Louis/Harry/Nick Grimshaw, 7k, Not Rated, tumblr post]

Hello, I’m sorry if this isn’t a post that is allowed on this channel, but I was hoping for the best since it is regarding a photography project I’m working on at the moment. I’m working on a set of sunrise kiss photos and therefore am needing a willing kissing partner. I’d hoped to be able to provide one for myself, but it hasn’t panned out, so here I am! I was hoping to find someone here, since I know most of you (at least peripherally) and can generally vouch for you not being creeps. Plus this way I know you will understand needing to continue to tweak the camera settings and reshoots etc that others might not.

Anyway, I’m looking for someone who identifies as male or male-ish (sorry, ladies) who is between the ages of 18 and 40. I’m a 29 year old male-ish myself, for those who would like to know before replying.

If you’re interested and are free the early morning of August 7th and would like to kiss in the sunrise with me for the sake of some (hopefully) interesting and fun photos, let me know via DM and I’ll give you the location.

OR the one where Louis needs a kissing partner, two show up, and it all might turn out for the best that way.

call my name and save me from the dark by @so-why-let-your-voice-be-tamed / we_are_the_same

[Louis/Harry, 4k, Teen & Up, tumblr post]

“I don’t know if it was a nightmare,” he confesses to the ceiling, the darkness making it easier to speak up even when he still has to close his eyes to stop himself from tearing up. “It feels more like a memory. But it can’t be.”

Harry shifts, and Louis can feel his chin perched on his chest, doesn’t need to look at him to know that Harry’s studying him. “Why?” He prompts, when Louis doesn’t immediately continue, and Louis swallows, tries to shrug off the apprehension, the fear that Harry will think that he’s gone mad.

“Because I heard them pronounce me dead.”

Feels like home by @neondiamond

[Louis/Harry, 2k, Explicit, tumblr post]

Louis comes home from work with an exciting surprise. Daydreaming and celebrations ensue.

this is my jam by @disgruntledkittenface

[Harry/Louis, 4k, Mature, tumblr post]

The guy’s eyes are so blue that Harry can’t tear his gaze away, even as he moves to the beat. The searing light shade is magnetic; he finds himself leaning in and yelling, “This is my jam!” only to earn a laugh from thin pink lips that Harry’s definitely going to be dreaming about tonight.

“Your jam?”

When the guy yells back over the music, his blue eyes sparkling and his lips twisted in a smirk, Harry’s chest literally puffs out with pride at earning his attention. His obvious approval. Tongue-tied, Harry nods and closes his eyes as he lets go, the music reverberating around them. All of the usual inhibitions that keep him in the corner at parties fall away and he bounces around the center of the dance floor, waving his arms above his head. Somehow his towel stays on, even as he starts to think he wouldn’t mind if it fell off. Fuck it. He finally made it here, he’s damn well going to enjoy it.

Harry goes to a gay bathhouse for the first time. 90s AU.

I Know My Arithmedick (2 + 2 = 4sum) by yeah_alright / @uhoh-but-yeah-alright

[Harry/Louis + Louis/multiple partners, 3k, Explicit, tumblr post]

Harry wants to watch Louis fuck someone else. Louis loves giving Harry what he wants. It’s simple math, really.

doG…and his friend by @uhoh-but-yeah-alright / yeah_alright

[Louis/Harry, 3k, Teen & Up, tumblr post]

When Joan has to move out of her small, nice home and in with a random roommate, she obviously brings her dog/boyfriend, Doug, with her.

Doug makes a friend. And maybe more.

I Heard You Talking by @lululawrence

[Louis/Harry, 10k, Not Rated, tumblr post]

It had been an hour of their noise that Louis had been dealing with, and for some reason the fact that these grown men were being this rowdy in the quiet carriage over a game of Uno was the breaking point for him. He stood up and turned around, making his way down to where the group of five were somehow gathered around a table.

Louis stopped at the table and cleared his throat, mouth open and ready to politely request they keep it down when the man who was sitting with his back to Louis turned.

He was stunningly gorgeous.

Blinking a ridiculous number of times in an attempt to pull himself together, Louis coughed and spit out, “This is the quiet carriage.”

God, he was nearly forty and that was the best he could do in front of a set of pretty, green eyes?

Or the one where Harry is famous and Louis doesn't have a clue. Good thing his son is able to help him out.

All That You Need by @haztobegood

[Louis/Harry, 2k, Explicit, tumblr post]

Pre-heat was always one of Harry’s favorite times to spend with Louis. It was a time to rest up and indulge in extra cuddles, like basking in a ray of sunshine before having to dive off the deep end. Louis lavishes him with tender touches and soft kisses. Harry wants to savor this time as long as possible. The unquenchable need will come later, but for now, his desires are simple. He just needed to be closer to his alpha. As close as possible.

sickly sweet fonding by amomentoflove / @daggerandrose

[Louis/Harry, 1k, General, tumblr post]

A few members of their crew start piling up the dirty dishes and taking them over to the sink. Harry walks around the cameras, and smiles brightly at Louis.

“What do you think, Lou? Do I have it in the bag?”

Louis eyes a bowl of bright pink lumpy batter being cleaned from Harry’s side. “Of course you do.” He wraps an arm around Harry’s waist and steers him away, all while ignoring the dramatic gagging Niall is doing. He doesn’t think it’s just the batter making Niall gag.

or the one where Louis fonds over Harry's horrible baking skills

Fractured Moonlight by amomentoflove / @daggerandrose

[Louis/Harry, 1k, Mature, tumblr post]

Louis huffs because he doesn’t want to deal with this. “Listen, I appreciate your concern.” He doesn’t. “But it’s not your duty to look after the sad man at the bar. Okay?”

'Ere comes the milk by stretchmybones / @onlyfor-thegays

[Harry/Louis, 1k, Explicit]

Louis is obsessed with Harry's mommy milkers.

everything comes back to you by stretchmybones / @onlyfor-thegays

[Louis/Harry, 8k, Explicit]

Harry and Louis are childhood best friends. What happens when Harry has to move towns just as they are starting their secondary gender presentations? What happens when fate brings them back together years later in the most unexpected of ways?

He Still Takes My Breath Away by @parmahamlarrie

[Harry/Louis, 32k, Teen & Up, tumblr post]

Camp Infinity is the perfect place for a lot of things; hiking, swimming, sports, eating, and falling in love. Harry Styles is a bit too familiar with the last one from his years of being a camper. This year things will be different. He’s 21, a grown man now, and ready to see Camp Infinity from a different point of view; working as a lifeguard. However, his whole summer turns upside down when a familiar British lad makes his return into Harry's life.Or the one where Harry is a lifeguard and Louis is the head of recreation. And, sometimes, you just need a little push to realize what was right in front of you the whole time.

Also known as – The Summer Camp Fic

tread lightly on my ground by fairytalelights / @lookslikefairytale

[Louis/Harry, 20k, Explicit, tumblr post]

No, that's the tragic part of this, the part that makes Harry feel like the universe is playing a cruel joke on him. The father of his baby is exactly right, exactly who he always imagined himself having kids with. He just imagined them married, bonded. Happy. He didn't imagine them barely talking, tip-toeing around each other because neither of them is brave enough to talk about what happened between them. He didn't imagine the father of his child not loving him back.

or, the one where Harry is having Louis' baby, but Louis doesn't know it's his.

Getting a Head for Heights by @ladyaj-13 / LadyAJ_13

[Louis/Greg James, 3k, Teen & Up, tumblr post]

The problem is, Louis thinks Greg would be quite good to date, so it would really help if everyone would stop reminding him of that fact so he could unthink it. He’d be a gentleman, at least until Louis talked him out of it, and he’s funny and nice and hot and they’re both into music and football and drama. He’s also a freakish giant of a human, and the problem with dating is that sooner or later you have to stand next to each other.

We Go Together (series) by @beelou / cherrylarry

[Louis/Harry, 3k, General, tumblr post]

A grease au

Hot Boy Summer (series) by @louisandtheaquarian / zita17

[Harry/Louis, 35k, Teen & Up, tumblr post]

Louis is an overworked bartender hoping to save up enough extra tips to buy a new air conditioner before he literally melts during a scorching NYC heat wave. Harry is the new neighbor that wakes him up by moving in his sole day off at 6am. An NYC enemies to neighbors to lovers AU featuring a rickety fire escape, the 2021 Euros, Lirry bickering like a divorced couple, and enough OT5 clichés to rot your teeth. (If Harry's pastries don't get them first.)

across the river is where my heart is by 4ureyesonly28 / @evilovesyou

[Louis/Harry, 8k, General, tumblr post]

The first time they see each other is when they are toddlers, playing out in the yard. Louis remembers sitting on the perfectly trimmed lawn and getting yelled at for picking at the soft blades of grass; she remembers looking over, across the narrow but deep and wild river, and watching another little girl, out in a different garden, picking flowers for her mother.

She remembers carefully raising her hand and waving—her little heart beating hard in her chest, as if she had done something dangerous, something forbidden, even though back then she could not understand the true divide the River made amongst them.

bright eyes, blue denim by 4ureyesonly28 / @evilovesyou

[Louis/Harry, 2k, General, tumblr post]

Louis' favourite jeans have suddenly disappeared from where he always got them. Harry is a store manager with an affinity for customer care, particularly when the customer has bright blue eyes and happens to be very flirty.

whatever you feel like doing in this moment by 4ureyesonly28 / @evilovesyou

[Harry/Louis, 2k, General, tumblr post]

Louis gets all that he's ever wanted during his favourite game at their group's weekly improv show.

[outlawsworld]

Trusting Strangers - Chapter 3

Arthur Morgan x Female reader

Summary: The reader gets to know Arthur better and she finally goes out on her first job.

Warnings: Just fluff 🤠

Notes: This was my favourite chapter so far. It's not as fast pace as the previous two but I just think it's cute! If you like it please let me know and reblog 🤠❤️

Chapter 1

--

The morning light peered through the flap on your tent. You could hear the rain falling and the wind blowing harshly. Grabbing your coat from your chest you made your way to the horses. You took some hay and put them in small piles on the ground so the horses have a bit more to eat. The weather was bitter and cold so once you were done you headed back towards your tent for shelter. You were already drenched and shivering slightly as you stepped into your tent. The rest of camp was beginning to stir and you could see that Arthur, John and Bill must have gotten back to camp in the middle of the night as Arthur was finally resting in his cot. He placed his hat over his face and his arm was hanging from the cot limply. This must have been the first time you had seen him sleeping.

You sat at the entrance to your tent with the flap tied back when Pearson came over to pour you a cup of coffee. The heat was radiating from the cup as you held it with both hands close to your chin to try and warm yourself. With the weather as bad as it was Mrs Grimshaw assured you that you didn't have any chores to do today. You were dreading your chores in this weather so you breathed a sigh of relief at this.

''That only means you'll have twice as much to do tomorrow Miss (Y/N)'' she scoffed at you before making her way round camp. She must have seen the smile on your face and had to remind you that you don't get days off without consequences. You respected Mrs Grimshaw because although she was harsh and bossy, she did a good job at keeping the camp running smoothly. At least she made sure everyone was doing there bit.

You enjoyed sitting in your tent watching the world go by. There was something relaxing about watching the rain fall and seeing the camp quiet for once. Most of the gang remained in their tents seeking shelter from the wet and cold weather. You watched as Micha and Lenny went out but they seemed to be the only ones to leave camp this morning.

Tilly and Karen came to your tent and brought some dominos to play.

''Fancy a game?'' Karen asked as she sat next to you on the floor.

''I don't see why not'' All three of you played a couple of games. You won two games and Tilly won one.

''I never liked this game anyway'' Karen spit at you and tilly as she started to pack the dominos away.

''Someone is a sore loser'' Tilly laughed at Karens remarks. You couldn't help but join in with the teasing and you all sat there giggling.

''Well....I'm going to do some stitching. Poor Kieran had about 5 rips in his shirt after being tied to that tree for so long'' Karen sighed as she stood up to take her leave.

''Kieran? The O'Driscoll boy?'' You questioned. A couple of days ago you finally asked John who the O'Driscolls were. You had been accused of being one when you first arrived so you wanted to know who these people were. Turns out it's another gang. Dutch fell out with the leader, Colm O'Driscoll, many years ago because they both killed someone the other cared about. Nasty business. So Dutch and Colm have had a hatred for each other ever since.

''Yeah, turns out he never really liked the O'Driscolls and our boys managed to take one of their camps out last night with his help'' Tilly answered as she also stood up to leave. ''You comin' (Y/N)?''

You shook your head in response with a smile ''I think I'm finally starting to dry off'' you pointed out your wet clothes that clung to your skin still.

With that Tilly gave you a smile and followed Karen back to their tent. You leaned back against the foot of your cot looking out across camp. Your eyes landing on Arthur who had just woken up. He stretched his arms and grabbed his journal and scribbled something down before sitting on the edge of his bed. You couldn't help but stare at him, he was very easy on the eyes but he also had something about him that always intrigued you. Maybe it was the way that he could flip his mood from tough outlaw to caring man in the blink of an eye. Or maybe it's the mystery behind this man that caught your attention. You noticed Arthur never talks much about anything. Not his past, or what he's feeling. He just seems to nod and get on with it. You have now had a couple of conversations with him and he knew everything about you but you were none the wiser about him.

''Mornin''' Arthur's voice woke you from your daydream. He was standing at the front of your tent soaked through from just walking from his tent to yours.

''Mornin', come in'' You gestured for him to sit next to you and get cover from the rain. He took a seat next to you and lit a cigarette before taking a drag. ''Shit ain't it'' you looked out to the rain that seemed to be getting heavier.

Arthur couldn't help but laugh at the foul language you used. ''You know a lady like yourself shouldn't use that sorta language''.

''Well maybe you've never met a 'lady' like me before Mr Morgan'' you teased him. He smiled under the brim of his hat.

''You're right, I don't think I have'' he looked at you with those blue eyes and a grin plastered across his face. His smile was infectious because before you knew it you were smiling right back at him with blushed cheeks.

"How was last night?" You questioned.

"What with the O'Driscoll kid?" He muttered. "Well, we took a couple of the men out but Colm wasn't there. Bagged a bit of cash though so it wasn't completely useless" he looked at Kieran as he made his way to the horses.

''I talked to Hosea last night'' you met his eyes and you saw them soften. ''I told him everything. He took it well, told me I fit in more than I care to realise''.

''I hope you don't mind that I mentioned to him we spoke, swear I didn't say anymore then that'' Arthur took another drag from his cigarette and the smoke got lost in the rain as he exhaled. You shook your head with a smile in response. ''But he ain't wrong. You definitely fit in with these bunch of idiots''. You quickly punched his arm after his comment which only made him laugh more. You couldn't believe he was already teasing you about things. You barley knew him but you knew just how to give it back as good as you got.

''Well... you're the biggest idiot of them all Mr Morgan'' you fired back as you both laughed.

''Have you not met John yet? He got half his brain eaten by wolves and you are calling me the biggest idiot'' Arthur was quick to defend himself.

''I have met him actually and I happen to think he's a very interesting man. Least he has plenty of stories to tell'' you teased. Arthur shot you a look of slight hurt at this which was your intention. It seemed that the thought of you finding John more interesting then Arthur struck a nerve with him.

''Oh I have plenty of stories, just haven't had a chance to tell you 'em yet'' he scoffed.

''Well it's a good job this weather isn't getting any better'' you looked out to the rain again before turning back to Arthur. ''We got time'' you gave him a cheeky wink which he didn't expect. Using the same line he used on you the other day made him chuckle and throw his hands up in surrender.

''Alright, alright you got me'' he shook his head ''What do ya wanna know''.

You wanted to know everything about him. He was not one to sit and talk for too long so you didn't want to miss your opterunity. You had spoken to everyone in camp and had an idea of who they are and where they came from but you were clueless when it came to Arthur.

''Let's start with how you ended up with Dutch and Hosea'' you watched him as he told you how his dad was no good to him and how his mum had died when he was young. He kept it brief as you imagined he would. Arthur didn't seem like the type to go into details about his past as he seemed to almost be afraid of reliving it all.

''You've been with 'em for twenty years?'' you couldn't believe it. You had assumed Arthur had been with the gang for a while given their relationship. He was more than loyal to Dutch but you didn't realise just how long he had spent on the run.

''hmm'' He replied in a hushed tone. ''They taught me everything I know. How to read and write. How to shoot a gun''

''How to rob a bank'' you smirked at him.

''Yeah, all that too'' Arthur turned his attention to the weather outside which was beginning to clear up. For the first time you really looked at Arthur. The way the stubble graced his weathered face except for the one spot on his chin where a scar was. The rough calluses on his hands showing all the heavy labour he had done. He had a genuine smile upon his face as he was speaking to you about his first bank robbery. He didn't smile much. Well, not a lot from what you had seen. He always held a serious face around camp unless his was antagonising someone. But that wasn't a genuine smile, this one, the smile he had now was. Yes, he was a big, broad, intimidating man but in this moment he was just a normal guy talking about his past. You were thankful for the rain as it allowed you this time to actually get to know Arthur. Before now you never knew what to think of him. He was just a well oiled machine that Dutch used to do his dirty work but this conversation with him changed your mind. He was human, he did have emotions, he just chose to not show them. Even when he was talking to you, you could see him cursing himself as he let his guard down slightly. Hiding his smile under the brim of his hat, to not show you what he was really feeling. Although it didn't stop him from talking about his first attempt at robbing.

''Sorry if I'm boring ya'' he paused as he realised he was talking a lot.

''Not at all, I'm enjoying it'' you smiled at him reassuringly. ''Who would 'av thought, Arthur Morgan the boy who didn't know how to use dynamite properly'' you teased him after he told you about his botched job on the bank robbery.

''Never made that mistake again'' he laughed at your comment. It was around mid afternoon when the rain had finally stopped and you couldn't help but feel slightly disappointed. You were really enjoying getting to know Arthur and you didn't know when would be your next opportunity.

''Well now the weather has cleared we can go see about that house'' Arthur stood up to leave your tent. ''You still up for it?''

You had forgotten all about the job Arthur had asked you to do with him. With that you jumped to your feet and grabbed your coat that was still wet.

''Lead the way sir'' you gave him a nod and followed him over to the horses. Charles was stood at the hitching post tending to the horses.

''How you doin' Charles?'' Arthur asked as he started to saddle up.

''Good thank you Arthur'' Charles turned to you and helped you saddle up Dallas. ''Where are you both headed?''

''I overheard a rich fella talking about going away for a couple of nights with the Mrs. Leaving an empty house. Just gonna check it out'' Arthur replied. ''Might have a bit of money lying around. (Y/N) is comin' with me. Always good to have an extra pair of hands''

''Need me to come along?'' Charles offered as you and Arthur mounted up.

''Nah, I'm sure we can handle it but thanks anyway'' Arthur kicked his horse into a steady trot.

''Alright'' Charles shouted after Arthur. He turned his attention to you ''be careful out there'' he gave you a smile and patted Dallas' neck.

''Always am'' you smiled at him before trotting to catch up to Arthur. You could feel how powerful Dallas was. He was raring to go and you were getting bounced out of the saddle with his big strides. You gave him a pat and tried to steady him before Arthur turned to you again.

''Want to see what that horse can do?'' Arthur cocked his eyebrow and a cheeky smile appeared on his lips. You knew it was a stupid idea with the ground being so wet and slippy but you couln't help it.

''Is losing to me once not good enough for you Arthur?'' you teased. His face turned dark with competition. ''To the tree line over there'' you pointed to the distant woods and without a second word you both kicked your horses into a full gallop. The thunder from the horse's hooves was roaring through the heartlands as you raced to the woods. You were neck and neck, both pushing your horses as fast as they could possibly go. Dallas was gaining speed by the second and you could tell he had a lot more to give if you just pushed him on that bit more. Spurring him on slightly, you felt his stride open up until you started to pass Arthur and Siego. You let your reins loose giving Dallas control of his head and before you knew it you were in the lead and gaining distance once again.

The tree line came up quickly and you struggled to pull Dallas into a steady trot. He had a lot more gallop in him and he was a lot stronger then most of the horses you had ridden before. You gave him a good pat as Arthur came up beside you and you were finally able to pull him up.

''Keep up next time would ya'' you gave him a cheeky grin. He scoffed at you as he gave his horse a good pat. You both had bright red faces and were struggling to catch your breath.

''I shoulda kept that horse for myself'' he gestured at Dallas. ''Got a lot of run in 'im don't he''

''Sure does, still don't think that was as fast as he could go either'' you kept at a steady walk now to cool off.

''Alright, no need to rub it in'' Arthur laughed with you. You followed behind Arthur for the rest of the ride to a big farm house just outside Strawberry. There were no other houses nearby so it would be an easy job to do without being spotted. You left the horses just outside of the grounds and crouched behind a bush.

''Doesn't look like anyone is home but keep an eye out'' Arthur handed you one of his pistols. ''Here, you may need it if things go south''. He told you the plan where he would knock on the front door to see if anyone is home while you go round the back and into the house. You nodded at him in reply and started to make your way round the house.

You reached the back and peered through the window and saw the house looked empty. Arthur had knocked with no response so you were ready to go. Lock picking was a skill you picked up when you were on the run, many people had locked chests full of valuables so it was a good skill to have which was quiet enough to not draw attention. You picked the lock on the back door and made your way inside. By this point Arthur had made his way round the back and caught up to you.

''You check to see what you can find down 'er, I'll check upstairs'' he patted you on the shoulder and quietly made his way up the creaky stairs with his pistol at the ready. You started in the kitchen taking bits of food and liquor before going into the dining room. There were a few jewels but nothing of too much value. You could hear Arthur fumbling about when you saw the weird dust pattern near the fireplace. Arthur came stomping down the stairs ''Well.....there ain't much here. What a damn waste of time'' you could sense the frustration in his tone.

You made your way over to the fireplace to investigate. It looked like someone had fumbled about here not too long ago. You reached into the chimney and felt around until your hand landed on some papers. Pulling them out you saw a couple of bonds and at least $400 stacked together. You held them out to Arthur.

''They must have known we were comin' or they wouldn't have hidden all this'' you smiled up at Arthur. Your hand was still feeling around in the chimney to see if you had missed anything. Arthur quickly glanced through it all clearly seeing there was a lot of money that could be made from it by the look he gave you.

You stood up and headed towards the kitchen when you heard a horse and cart pull up to the front door.

''Shit!'' Arthur muttered as he looked out the window to see the couple had cut their trip short. Keeping your head down you both quietly snuck into the kitchen and out the back door. You headed round the side of the house waiting for the couple to go inside before making your escape. The couple were arguing about some of their belongings being stolen whilst on the road to their destination. You couldn't help but think it was ironic that they had been robbed twice in one day.

They made their way into the house and you made your way down the drive back to where you left the horses. Arthur followed close behind, you both looking behind you to make sure you hadn't been seen. As you got to the horses you heard a woman shriek and yell ''It's gone''. You didn't stop to watch the show, so you mounted your horses and pushed them into a gallop as far down the road as you could without raising suspicion. 

You couldn't hold it back anymore as you began to laugh. Arthur gave you a look before joining in with your fit of giggles.

''Could you imagine the look on 'er face when she noticed'' you were crying with laughter at this point.

''Well least she'll learn not to openly talk about her empty house again'' Arthur laughed back at you. ''Nice job Miss (Y/N)'' he threw your half of the money to you.

''That was fun'' the smile on your face said it all.

''That it was'' Arthur admitted. He sounded almost defeated, like he didn't want to admit that he had enjoyed your company today. You both smiled at each other before laughing again.

It was starting to get dark as you were riding back to camp. You ended up telling Arthur about the first time you tried to rob someone. It had gone horribly wrong because you never had any experience doing things like that. You got caught and had to gallop away from the law but still managed to steal the man's pocket watch and $5. Arthur smiled at you and shook his head in amusement as you rode down the track and into camp.

''I enjoyed riding with you today'' Arthur said softly as he hitched his horse up.

''Me too'' you caught his eyes as you spoke. You looked at each other for a moment longer not quite knowing what to say. Arthur was clearly not one for giving complements and you could see his face racing to find the right words to say.

''I think you should tell Dutch about what you found'' Arthur broke the silence and gestured over to Dutch's tent. ''After all it was you who found all this'' he passed you back the bonds. You couldn't help but feel grateful, even though it was Arthur's job he was willing to give you the credit. On the same note you weren't the type to take credit for something that wasn't fully yours to take.

''You comin' with me? It was your job, I can't take all the credit' you glanced at Arthur as you headed over to Dutch's tent. When you both reached the tent, Dutch was sitting on his cot reading a book. He looked up and closed his book as he saw you approaching.

''Well hello there Miss'' he gave you a shy smile. ''Arthur'' he nodded in Arthurs direction. ''How can I help you''.

''Arthur had a tip on a house so we went to check it out, we may have found something'' you held out the bonds and money to Dutch to inspect. Dutched flicked through the papers you had handed him and a huge grin appeared on his face. He was very clearly happy with what you had just passed him just as Arthur was.

''Did you run into any trouble?'' he looked at Arthur now.

''Not really, we got out just before they got home'' Arthur answered. ''(Y/N) found the bonds hidden in the chimney. Apart from that, there wasn't much to take'' he nodded in your direction as to direct Dutch's attention to you.

''Well Miss (Y/N) you've done good. You've done very good'' he stood up and patted you on the shoulder. ''We will have to get you out on more jobs if this is the sort of thing you bring in'' he paused looking at you and then Arthur. ''You two make quiet the team''.

''Thanks Dutch'' you nodded at him before taking your leave. Arthur turned to follow you out of the tent.

''Arthur, I need to speak to you'' Dutch stopped him in his tracks. You gave them both a smile and left them both to talk.

None of the girls were sitting at the fire tonight but you saw John and Sean and decided to join them.

''There she is'' John called after you as he saw you. You took your seat on the log next to him and he passed you a warm bowl of Pearson's stew. The stew warmed you up right to the core and you had to take a second helping. ''How was the job?'' John nudged your arm impatiently waiting for an update.

After you finished your second bowl of stew you told them about the job and what you had managed to steal. They both looked at you approvingly. As you finished your story Arthur left Dutch's tent and joined you round the fire. He grabbed himself a bowl of stew and lowered himself onto the log opposite you and John.

''Arthur'' Sean cheered. ''Is (Y/N) gonna be comin' on jobs with us now, eh?''

You shot Sean a look before shyly looking at Arthur. He took a mouthful of stew before looking up at Sean.

''I'd rather have her there then you'' Arthur smirked. ''Least she can hit a target'' he glanced at you and gave you a blushed smile before turning his attention back to his stew. Sean was visibly offended by Arthurs comment but you couldn't help but feel flattered. You were not sure if he meant what he said because you knew he liked to tease Sean. However, you felt like some part of him meant it.

''You can shoot?'' John interrupted Sean from saying anything back to Arthur. He looked at you with an impressed smirk.

''Yeah I guess'' you looked at your feet and blushed.

''You are one impressive woman (Y/N)'' John nudged you again. The heat ran to your cheeks as you blushed. You knew full well they were all teasing you but it felt nice to be included. Arthur muttered something under his breath but you couldn't quite make out his words and before you had a chance to ask he stood up and said goodnight before going to his tent. You sat with Sean and John for a little longer before you also took your leave.

As you were on your way to your tent you saw that Arthur was still awake and scribbling in his journal again. You wondered what he had in his journal, maybe it was a diary or was it just his own ledger that he kept. When you reached your tent you closed the flap behind you before getting undressed into your night wear. It was nice to finally get out of the wet clothes you had been in all day and the dry fabric warmed you almost instantly. You laid on your bed before your thoughts wandered again.

Only this morning you were questioning Arthur and now you had spent the day with him, that had all changed. Today was the most alive you had felt in years and that was all thanks to him. You had proven to Arthur what you were capable of and he had vouched for you to the other men and to Dutch. Maybe now you wouldn't be stuck in camp as often with Mrs Grimshaw doing chores. Maybe now you could go on some real jobs.

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Chapter 4

[myfairgunslinger]

Title: Red Dead Revenge: Kiss of Death  [Part 7 ]

Pairing: Arthur Morgan x OC x John Marston

Warnings: Cursing, Violence, Animal Death (predators)

Summary:  Abigail knows the truth of John and Maeve’s relationship.  All hell breaks loose. Arthur goes out on a job.

A/N: Hey guys! I’m back with another entry in Maeve’s journey.  Let me know what you guys think on what you think so far!  Hope you enjoy!  Italics means  flashbacks/dreams.

Chapter 7: Hunted or Hunter?

Abigail glanced between the two men, thinking them strange, "Uh John, what's he talkin' about?"

John had his hands on his hips glaring back at John, "Nothing, Abigail.  Can we talk alone for a minute?"

"You'll need more time than that," Arthur called out. "Do you know when to shut up?" John snapped at him before turning to Abigail to lead her to his tent.

When they got in John took off his hat, placing it on the small table.  Abigail just watched John silently for a moment then finally after waiting too long asked, "What did you do?"

"I left for that year," he started, "Did you ever wonder where I went off too?" Abigail had crossed her arms over her chest, "Feelin' sorry for yourself at the bottom of a bottle."

He winced his eyes at that response and sharply, Abigail replied with a, "Am I wrong?"

"I was in Blackwater for a good part of it," John said staring at her, "And I met someone."

"A girl," Abigail said, uncharacteristically calm.  He nodded, "She was--is a good person.  Came from decent folk, never caused anyone grief and completely innocent in our affair."

"Really now?" Her voice was in a mocking tone, "So you two fucked."

"Abigail--"

"Did you or did you two not fuck?  An easy question, John."

John didn't want to answer that, not because he wanted to lie but it just sounded harsh, "No, we didn't fuck Abigail.  That's something you did for a livin'," she made an offended scoff.  "What me and her had it was...intense, intimate. I never had anything like it before."

"Oh brother," Abigail then stepped closer to her husband, "Did you tell her that you are married?  That you have a child?"

John put his head down, gently shaking it, "No."

"Of course not because what you had was fake, John!  It was just a cheap lie that you got to pump your frustrations out on until you decided to come crawlin' back here to your real family."

John tilted his head up with an angered expression, "Don't ever say that again.  She loved me, cared for me.  More than your heartless self ever could!"

"That's cause she's probably dumb like you!  Your head is about as full as a bucket with a hole at the bottom!" Abigail spat, "And if you were any smarter you wouldn't have left me in the first place!"

John pointed his finger at her, "If I was smarter I would have stayed in Blackwater with Maeve!" Abigail's mouth dropped at the name, "Her?!  You were with her?"

His jaw clenched shut as Abigail glared at him, "You're a pathetic man.  Did you plan on bringin' her here?"

"No."

"Don't lie to me!"

"I'm not lying!  I was just as surprised when Arthur brought her here," John huffed, "I didn't think I would ever see her again."

Abigail rolled her eyes, "And now that she is you two plan on runnin' away.  Tearin' apart poor Jack's family."

"Were we ever much of one?" John's eyes hardened, "Is he even mine Abigail?" Her hand reached back to slap him across the face, "How dare you!"

John's head turned from the loud smack.  He really riled her up with that, "How dare I?  How dare you, for confusin' that boy in the first place." He then started to leave his own tent as Abigail called out, "Go a head and leave!  You do that so well!"

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"Shit," Maeve said when Abigail was in front of her.  John saw them from where he was sitting and got up.

"Shit is right!" she huffed, "I'm aware that Numbskull over there forgot to mention that he already had a wife and child.  And I know it's a hard time for you right now, being a newly orphan and all," Abigail said so mean that Maeve was taken back by that.  Hell, some of the other members of the camp heard it.

"Abigail! Leave her alone!" John shouted, but the angered woman continued, "So I'm only givin' you this one warning. Stay away from him.  He's not yours."

Maeve tilted her head to the side and perched her lips for a moment, "Or else what?"

"Excuse me?" Abigail was surprised she was being challenged.

Maeve shrugged, brushing off her threats, "What are you gonna do?  I honestly wanna know what's gonna happen if I get a sudden urge in the middle of the night," she leaned in to say, "to go in your husband's tent and fu--."

Abigail, without missing a beat, punched Maeve in the face, right under her right eye.  Maeve had stumbled back holding the spot while hearing Mary-Beth gasp in the distance, "You'll join your parents if you do such a thing!"

That did it.  That set off a fuse that only lead a fiery trail to the bomb with in the accused.  All that pain from witnessing the deaths of Everett and Cecilia, all that anger from John treating her like a shameful secret, all that turmoil Maeve has been through had all been shoved off the edge when Abigail mentioned Maeve's mother and father no longer being here.

Maeve let out a scream and charged right at her, tackling the woman to the ground.  The girl on top was shoving the bottom one's face into the desert dirt while yanking the dark strands of hair out of her messy bun.  Maeve managed to pull Abigail's head up for a moment before pushing it right back down on the hard, grainy terrain, "Talk about my parents again, bitch," she slammed her head once more, "and I'll rip your jaw open so you can never speak again!" Maeve hissed with a deadly look in her eyes.

Everything was moving so fast that before they knew it, Arthur had pulled Maeve off Abigail with ease, "That's enough!"  John went to help up Abigail who still had a lot of fight in her when she was trying to shove John away, "Abigail that's enough! You're bleeding!" he could see it on the back of her head and on the dirt below them.

"Let me take care of your lil' orphan whore!" his wife snarled when John got a good hold on her.

Maeve was trying to break out of Arthur's grasp, "Try it!  I'll make Jack motherless!"

"Ladies!  Ladies!" Dutch had his hands up trying to make the peace, "John, get your women under control."

"Oh Dutch, now is now the time!" Hosea said from behind, "Arthur, bring Miss Milley to my tent.  John...work on your marriage."

John was enraged that he had to stay with Abigail so she wouldn't do something stupid, like going after Maeve.  Mrs. Grimshaw went to help treat Abigail's wound since hers was worse.  Her head wouldn't stop gushing out that red horror.  Arthur practically carried Maeve over there, "Let go of me!"

"Not until I know you won't go up and kill Abigail," he said as they got in the tent. "I'm not gonna kill her!  I just wanna get the hell outta here!" She said once he set her down.  Maeve went to lean on the table, putting all her weight in her hands, "And go where?"

Maeve sucked on her teeth, "Anywhere but here!" she turned her head back, "I don't belong, Arthur.  It was a mistake that you saved my life! All of it was one big mistake!" her eyes welled up.

Arthur shook his head, "No, it wasn't.  You don't mean that."

"I don't?" Maeve snapped while approaching him.  Arthur would be lying if he denied being fearful of this wild one, "What's keepin' me going then?" After some dead air, she took in a breath to then stare at the ground noticing a small pebble there, with a soft kick to it Maeve went to lean on against the table.

"You just have to find your reason, Maeve.  I can't help you with that because it's something you have to look for on your own," Arthur said in a tender tone to the very lost girl. 

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Maeve walked down the steps to her home to find her mother sitting on their sofa, "Ma?" The light outside the windows shined bright through the glass.

Cecilia was wearing her light blue striped shirt with a dark blue Constance skirt and gold earrings, her hair was down however.  She had a tired expression on her face, "Hello, my sweet," the mother softly smiled.

Sitting down next to her, Maeve embraced her in a hug, "Why are you down here alone?  Where's Pa?"

"He's outside," Cecilia said nodding to the front door, "Said one of the horses was givin' him grief when he tried givin' it water."

Maeve winced confused, "It wasn't drinkin'?" Cecilia shook her head, "Being stubborn like all hell.  Hasn't been the same since it was bitten by that wild cat."

"It'll die out here in the heat if keeps rejecting water like that," she was trying to see outside the window but it was too bright outside.  Cecilia didn't look away from her, "Yes.  It can.  Sometimes, though, the reason they don't drink is because they have a sickness."

"What?" Maeve's eyes went back to her, "They ignore something so crucial to their survival because they’re sick," the mother pointed to her head when saying the last word.

Maeve speculated while still trying to see out the window, "Havin' to watch one of the other horses being eaten during that attack must have made 'em sick with grief."

"Perhaps," Cecilia agreed, "Witnessing something so awful, it changes you Maeve.  Don't matter if you're a horse or a scared child like you are."

The daughter's eyes went to stare at her mother, thrown off by this moment, "You don't say that...you're supposed to ask me to take that horse on a walk."

Cecilia cupped her hand on the side of Maeve's face, "I will, but I just need you to understand that it's okay to be afraid or to grieve...just don't let it kill you, my sweet.  That's the last thing I want."

Maeve's eyes started to water while not looking away from her mother knowing this moment was going to end at any second. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Maeve's eyes opened up and she sat up.  Under her right eye, she felt a throbbing pain that swelled there.  Maeve went to touch the black eye that had formed and made a hiss when a sting was there, "That bitch," she cursed.

She stood up still feeling pissed about last night, recalling all those remarks about her folks that Abigail just threw in her face.  Maeve had half a mind to go find her in camp and kick her ass again.  On top of that, she remembered what Hosea had said to John when Arthur had pulled her away, 'John...work on your marriage.'  It had rubbed her the wrong way.  Sure, he may have tried to calm his wife down, but John never came to check on Maeve at some point.  I guess, deep down she always knew where John stood even if he was smiling at her before everything blew out of proportion.

Right before she opened the flap to the tent, Hosea had came in, "Good, you're up.  I need your help today.  I already talked to Mrs. Grimshaw about it."

"Um? Okay, what did you need?" Maeve asked confused wondering what ever it was this old man could want from her, "Arthur has told me a great deal about you, like that you're a great shot with a rifle."

Maeve gently smiled, "He did?"

"Yes," Hosea's tone then turned into a grumble, "Also told me you're a dirty liar too," her smile quickly left her face, "So I reckon I take you with me today on a little hunting trip today.  Get you out of camp."

The girl stared at him as if he was serious about not saying the real reason he wanted her out of the camp for the day, "You mean so I don't cause any more trouble?"

"Did I ever say that?" He answered with a question.  Maeve gave him a knowing smirk while pointing at her bruise, "I'll play along because I don't even want to be here anyway."

"Good!  Get on your horse and we'll be on our way. I already spent the early morning packing our things.  You don't have a lot so it was fast."

Maeve scoffed, but followed him out, when the sun hit her she saw different members of the gang looking at her, but it wasn't how they used to.  Before when they would lay their eyes on her she could see their pity and their mouths' having 'poor kid' right there at the tip of their tongues.  Now it was just uncertainty as to what she'll do next which could be a gateway to, dare she think it, fear.  Even the women of the camp were giving her shifty eyes and whispering among each other what Maeve could assume was recalls of her anger.

But did they all expect her not to stand up for herself?  Did they all expect her to just take Abigail's shit, her punch and then just be okay with it?  Sure, Maeve may have deserved getting hit by the wife of John for being intimate with him, but Abigail screwed herself the moment her mouth flapped about the only two people that have ever unconditionally loved Maeve.

Her fists balled up as an angered huff of breath escaped her nose.  If everyone here expects Miss Milley to lie down and take whatever it is they throw at her, they got another thing coming.

"Miss Milley!" Hosea called out.  Maeve hurried over to get on Liability.   ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- "So what exactly are we huntin'?" Maeve asked her babysitter.  They had headed east towards Hennigan's Stead where some life grew and it wasn't just a desert anymore.

"There's a man that owns a ranch not far from here that's been having a  problem with a cougar, it's been attacking his cattle and even some farm hands," Hosea explained.

With large eyes, Maeve expressed, "And you thought I can handle that?" "Arthur said you were a good enough shot to win contests."

"Yeah, bird shootin' contests! Not cougar shootin' contests!" Maeve had never really seen one of those beasts, let alone hunt one.  She has, however, heard one in the distance and seen the after math of the damage it leaves behind.  Everett has lost one of his horses to an attack.

"If you're gonna have a cry about it, I'll kill it myself, Miss Milley," Hosea chirped, being amused from her panic.

Maeve stared ahead of the road for a moment wondering why on Earth, he would bring her along for this trip.  She was better off at camp, "Why couldn't you ask Arthur to do this?  He seems like an actual hunter."

"Because, he's doing some hunting of his own for Mr. Strauss," the girl turned her head to him, "What?"

Hosea saw the ranch up head and continued to tell Maeve, "You are aware that Mister Strauss is a loan shark of sorts, right?" she nodded remembering Mrs. Grimshaw mention it a little after she first woke up at camp.  "Well, from time to time, Strauss sends Arthur to go collect for us."

Maeve wasn't sure how to take that.  In the past, back when the Milley's lived in Saint Denis, 'collectors' have come for her father when he's owed more than what he was given and usually they were never nice enough to leave Everett without being beaten up some.  She could remember how her mother would spend hours cleaning up her father's wounds while Maeve had to go fetch some water.  Then it took days or even weeks for the bruises and swelling to go down on his face.

There was a spark of anger that was deep inside her when recalling those particular times, "Does he... get rough with them?" she asked.

"Sometimes," Hosea said honestly, "but he usually gets the money back after visiting once. The man can be persuasive."

"Sure," that left a distaste in her mouth.

Once they reached the ranch, Hosea got to work on tracking down where this cougar can be.  They ventured out in the fields where they came across an animal carcass that was tangled in the long, gold grass.

Hosea had his rifle out while going over to kneel down next to their clue, "This is definitely one big cat.  Poor pronghorn didn't stand a chance," he observed the teeth marks that tore it open.  Maeve held her breath to not breathe in the hot, rotting smell, "Splendid.  Which way did it take off?"

The old man saw the tracks heading further east, "That way.  And it's a she," he stood up going in that direction on foot.  Maeve dismounted Liability, took her rifle and followed him, "What makes you say that it's a she?"

"Females of most species of animals are always deadlier," then after inspecting that carcass, it lead them to another, "You know, Miss Milley, in case we find this cougar and one of us dies--"

"Why.  Why are you talkin' like that Mister Matthews?" Maeve said in dread, now hoping they never found it.

"Let me finish! In case either of us dies, I have to ask you something."

Maeve looked around their area to make sure nothing snuck up on them, "Yes?"

"Last night, when you beat up Abigail, how long were you waiting to let out all that anger?" Maeve was surprised at that question, "Excuse me?"

"You heard me," Hosea looked back at her, "How long were you waiting to take out all your emotions out on someone?" he had stopped following the tracks and instead stepped towards Maeve, "Because you just charged at that woman, looking to draw blood and succeeding.  Damn near certain you gave Abigail a concussion."

Maeve clutched her hands around the gun, "Might be an improvement to her brain.  Maybe if poor Abigail kept her big mouth shut about things she doesn't understand I wouldn't have had to do anything to her," her voice was like venom.

He had pointed at her with a finger, "Do not get me wrong, what Abigail said was inexcusable, but did you expect her to react any different once finding out about you and John?"  Maeve was standing there, staring at the man in front of her.   She let out a sigh, shaking her head.  Hosea nodded once, " I feel you were unloading all your anger out on the wrong person for a lot of the wrong reasons."

"Oh I had my reasons.  She shouldn't have said anything about my folks--"

"Your folks.  That's what I'm getting at, Miss Milley.  You still hold a grudge for what happened to them, which is understandable.  But you have to heal.  You have to find something that helps you move on or keep your mind busy; otherwise, it can make you sick and kill you inside," he warned her of the danger she was in.

Maeve could hear her mother all over again when he said that, "You've lost someone too...haven't you?" she asked.

Hosea nodded once, "Haven't we all?"  She pressed her lips into a thin line with despondent eyes.  Loss was going to come eventually to everyone.  Still, Maeve was robbed of all that lost time by the Bollard Twins.  Time that they themselves had no right to take.  Maeve wanted someone to make them pay, someone to make them suffer as she had.  Someone to do something.

The grip on Maeve's rifle loosened when having a moment of clarity.

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Arthur had rode up to a run down house that was hiding off the main road in the desert.  Only lizards and people hiding from someone lived out here, capable of taking the heat.  A condor had flown over the man on the horse making for a nice sight.  Arthur went to take out his journal to sketch the bird but when he heard a loud thump from the house he got back on track.

After approaching the home, he dismounted Boadicia saying nothing so he had the element of surprise on his side.  He took a peek through the broken shutters that were on the windows.  He didn't see anyone in there though he did see sunlight coming from an opened back door.

"Son of a--"

He saw a figure running off when he turned around, "Hey!" he ran after the person like a wolf chasing it's prey.  When he caught up to the figure, Arthur tackled them down, "Gotcha!  It's time to pay up, Mister--" when he turned the body around he was met with a skinny, young, pale boy that had on an oversized coat and lots of fear in his eyes.

"What in the hell?  You're just a kid?"  Arthur was baffled with this surprise. "Please don't kill me!  I don't have anything, sir.  My mama got real sick and my papa took money from some German soundin' fella to get her medicine and help us with bills--"

Arthur grabbed the kid by the collar of his coat to pick him up, "Where are your parents now, boah?"

The boy, who couldn't have been more than fifteen, peered his eyes down in sorrow, "They're dead, sir...fever hit them real bad in the night...I woke up to them dead."

Arthur was curing Strauss under his breath.  What was he supposed to do now?  "They didn't leave me with anythin'.  Just a bunch'a debt," the boy continued.  Arthur huffed out, "Sorry for the loss, kid.  Really.  But you don't have anything at all to pay off what they owed?"

The boy shook his head, "No..." he then thought for a moment, "But I know where to get some."

"Don't go quiet on me now, speak up," Arthur encouraged, hands not as tight around the fabric of the coat.

"Well, there's this house out on Lake Don Julio. Said to have lots of good stuff like jewelry and such," the older man looked at the boy, wincing his eyes, "Does there happen to be a family livin' in that house?"

"Well--" he stammered before Arthur grabbed him by the collar of his coat again, lifting him off his feet, "What's the matter with you?  You don't go sellin' out some innocent family that has nothing to do with you!  They didn't put you in debt."

He was shouting out in fear of Arthur, feet flailing about, "I'm sorry!  I'm sorry!  I'm desperate!"

Arthur tossed the boy on the ground, "You ain't right is what you are!" he pulled out his revolver and aimed it towards the kid, "Now get on outta here!  Before I change my mind and put you out of your misery!"

The boy got up to start making a run for it as Arthur shouted out, "And if I hear that house on Lake Don Julio got robbed, I'm huntin' you down, boah!" And like that, the teenager was gone.  Arthur rubbed his chin with his rough hand, frustrated that this was a bust.

He knew letting the kid go was the right thing to do, but he'd never hear the end of it from Strauss.  When he got back on Boadicia, Arthur couldn't help but be irritated at how that boy sold out some family for their riches.  Wouldn't be the first time that's happened for him.

"Help!  Get away from me you nasty wolves!" The prospector shouted while throwing a pan at one of them.  He was standing on top of a large rock to keep out of reach of these hungry beasts.  Their snarling echoed through the woods along with the loud cries of, "Help!"

As one of the wolves leaped up to bite the prospector's leg, a bullet went into it's stomach.  More bullets went into each of the wolves, killing them off.  The prospector had a hand over his heart, when he saw Arthur ride up saying, "You alright, mister?"

"Holy hell!  You just 'bout saved my life!  Those wolves came outta no where!"

"They won't be troublin' you no more," Arthur reassured him getting ready to ride off to Blackwater.

"Hey wait!  I don't have anything to give you for savin' me, but I do think ya deserve something."

Arthur wondered what this could be, "Some gold you found there, old timer?"

"Not that I found.  This stableman did a while ago.  A whole bunch of it! He keeps it in his safe," That peeked his interest, "Where is this gold?"

The prospector pointed towards Blackwater, "Lives in a yellow house with his family.  There's a wind mill next to them. You can't miss it!"

Arthur would consider going there as he wrote down the description of the house in his journal, "Thanks for the tip," and with that he rode off.

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When they had walked up to another dead pronghorn, Hosea right away noticed how fresh the kill was, "Couldn't have gotten too far.  Blood is still pooling out of the damn thing."

Maeve had backed up a bit seeing the bloodied footprints of this wild cat heading off south, "Oh I don't like this."

Hosea followed the trail, getting just ahead of Maeve, "You've expressed that. Tell ya what, Miss Milley.  If you kill the beast, I'll talk Mr. MacFarlane into keeping the fur so we can get you a coat."

"And if you kill the beast?" Maeve cocked her gun when she heard rustling, "Then I still talk Mr. MacFarlane into keeping the fur, only it'll be for me."

Maeve let out a huffed chuckle, "You got a deal."  Her and Hosea split off to be further apart when searching for the animal.  Grass being moved and small twigs being snapped put them both on edge for any moment, one of them could be pounced on.

She had started to move slowly when an eerie feeling crept up her spin, one that she was being watched.  A low growl was heard all around her in the area and Maeve felt her heartbeat pounding against her chest.  She was sure the cougar could heart the blood pumping through her body. As the rustle gave away where something was hidden, Maeve quickly turned around to aim her rifle down towards the ground to see a rabbit hop out from the waist high blades of grass.  She tilted her head in confusion.

Suddenly, a loud, high-pitched scream ripped through the air causing Maeve's blood to run cold as ice.  She whipped herself around to see the beast lunging itself through the air, claws out, teeth bared, ready to end her life.

Everything slowed down.  Slow enough for Maeve's only reaction to be that of squeezing her finger on that trigger once.  The bullet shot right between the cougar's eyes, instantly killing it.  However, that didn't stop it from crashing right into Maeve's frame, knocking her down on the ground with the dead animal on top of her.

"Miss Milley!" Hosea came running up to her to seeing Maeve pushing off the animal, "I'm okay!" she grunted out while going to stand.  Her clothes were blood stained and part of her right shoulder was scratched from the claws, but other than that she was fine.

He let out a relived breath that she was able to stand, still breathing, "I thought that was the end for you, Miss Milley."

Maeve let out a scoffed laugh, "Oh?  What happened to all that faith you had in me for being a good shot?  Didn't think it was all talk, now did ya?" she slung her rifle over her shoulder.

"No...but that was one hell of a lucky shot you pulled off," Hosea said, now having the feeling of being impressed settle in.

"What can I say?  I really wanted a coat," Hosea chuckled then took out his knife, "A fair reason."  Just as he had knelt down to skin the creature, he stopped then looked over to the girl and offered his knife, "You skin it." "What!" Maeve shook her head as Hosea nodded his, "Yes, you skin it. You killed it, you should do it or at least know how."

She glanced at the animal, "Uh that's okay...I know how."

Hosea rolled his eyes, "Arthur was right.  You are a dirty liar!"

"Oh excuse me for not being over-joyed in wanting to peel back the fur of this thing that almost killed me!"  Maeve exclaimed.  Hosea was still holding up the knife, looking at her, not letting this go.

"Fine!" Maeve snatched the sharp tool from him, "Where the hell do I even begin?" she asked reluctantly.

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The pelt was rolled up and tied to the rear of Liability.  After talking to Mr. MacFarlane into keeping the fur as payment, they headed back to camp.  The sun was getting ready to come down, making the heat more bearable.  Her hands were blood stained as they gripped the reins, pulling to a stop when Maeve could see the campfire light.  Hosea went a few yards a head before stopping himself to turn back, "What's wrong?"

Maeve looked off in the far distance, "I think I should go into town and see someone about making this coat for me," she nodded towards the direction of town.  Hosea couldn't help but notice that night was coming, "It's a little late now.  Can't wait until tomorrow morning?"

She softly shook her head, "Maeve, you gotta be at camp eventually.  Can't stay away forever," Hosea said to her.  The girl gazed at him, almost in an offended manner, "You think I'm tryin' to avoid Abigail?  That I'm scared?"

"No," He shook his head, "I don't think you are scared of Abigail," Maeve thought his words through, understanding what he was getting at when it came to what it was that Maeve was scared of.

Hosea was right however.  She should stay, "Alright...do you have a habit of always being right?"

He shrugged, "It's more of a curse if I do say."  Just as he said that he saw a light in the distance riding up, "Oh, looks as though Arthur made it back."

Maeve got off Liability then hitched her to the post just as Arthur did, "Howdy," he greeted her.

"Hi," she said back rather short, not looking at him while unloading the satchel Hosea packed up for her.  Truth was, Maeve was still thinking about him beating up some poor family to get some money back even if that's not what happened.

"How'd huntin' go?" he asked her noticing how off-putting she was being. Maeve pointed at the rolled up pelt on the back of her horse. "A cougar?  You shot and killed one?" she nodded carrying the bag over to her bed roll.  Arthur was still following her, "Good for you, Miss Milley.  Might be gettin' a coat sooner than I thought."

She said nothing back, "Hey, I picked something up for you when I was out today."

Maeve dropped the bag down to turn around to face him.  Her eyebrows rose up as a signal for him to continue.  Arthur reached into his satchel to take out what looked like a small journal with a pencil inside.  He handed it over to her, "I picked this up for you.  I figured you could write out your thoughts or feelings.  Maybe draw like I do?"

She held the small book in her hand then glanced up at him, not understanding the gesture.  Arthur then said, "Or you could use it for makin' lists and keepin' track of chores Mrs. Grimshaw gives you."

The girl gave him a single nod before tossing it on her bed roll, "How was your day, Arthur?" she finally spoke.

Arthur paused, surprised someone for once asked him how his day was, "It was...annoying, but fine I suppose."

Maeve perched her lips, "A little birdie told me that you did collections for Mister Strauss."

"Was this birdie old and overbearing," Arthur irritably glanced over at Hosea who was by the campfire.

She smirked, "Yes, actually," then her stance changed to be more relaxed, "You know when I heard that, I couldn't help but be a little disappointed and angry."

Arthur stared at her taking in the sight of her hip being popped out to the side while her fingers fiddled around the edge of her shirt.  Most of the muscles in Maeve's face were relaxed, yet her eyes were dark and held a level of intensity that kept Arthur guessing if she was going to lash out or be calm.  Strangely, it excited him.  Her black-eye was still there but didn’t look as bad as it did the night before while those fresh new scratches on her shoulder were piercing red.

Yet, here she was having a conversation with him paying no mind to her wounds.  This little lady could take a lot, something Arthur admired.  His eyes dragged over to gaze at her neck, skin being smooth and alluring as a neck tie was wrapped around it.  Even beaten up, Maeve managed to make Arthur feel tingles in his stomach.

"Oh?" He had to snap himself out of his own thoughts, "And have those feelings changed?" Maeve went to place her finger on her chin as if debating her answer, but it took less than a second to say, "No."

He lightly threw his hands up, "But how did today go?  You said it was annoying," Maeve gave him a chance.

"Ended up being just a kid.  Parents died and left him with the bill," Maeve's eyebrows furrowed together showing her heart had stung for the boy, "Then what?"

"Then I ended up lettin' him go.  He had nothing to offer.  Guess I'll have to find another way to get the money back," Arthur had placed his hands on his hips, raising his eyebrows, "Satisfied, Miss Milley?"

Maeve adverted her eyes to the ground beside Arthur, "Actually, yes.  I am," her brown orbs were back on him, "I'm glad you let him go.  I was really worried there for a moment."

The man had stepped close to her, "Worried for what?  For me?"  Maeve nodded, "I didn't want to believe you were anything like those men," she whispered the last word, "Those treacherous twins that took everything from me."

After a long moment of both their gazes holding on to each other, Maeve let out a relieved breath, "But you're not.  You're a much better person than that." She closed in the space between them to hug her arms around Arthur.  He was shook that she was embracing him and that her face was buried in his chest.  While he longed for the closeness, he was damn never relishing in it, he felt such a heavy guilt on his shoulders.

He couldn't tell her the truth now, not when she had this much faith in him being a good person.  It would crush Maeve if she ever found out that the only reason Arthur was in Blackwater was so he could rob her family's gold.

Arthur brought up his arms so he could embrace her back, whispering, "I'd never do anything they would do," to comfort and reassure the girl in his hold.

[fangirl-ramblings]

Once Upon a Time in Blackwater

I’m hoping this story will eventually fill in some of the gaps regarding the pre-canon of the game - namely the events leading up to the Blackwater Massacre. (But we’ll see how that goes) Plus if anybody can think of a better title let me know😜

Chapter 1

“Whatchu doin’ here gurlie?” Arthur asked as Lilly hitched her Hungarian half breed to the nearby post. She smiled at the affectionate nickname the man who she’d grown to love as a brother had gave her almost a decade ago when he, Dutch & Hosea had saved her as a frightened 15 year old who refused to give her name.

“Pleased to see you too Morgan” she playfully punched his shoulder. “I was gettin’ kinda lonely sittin’ in that room all by myself, so I thought I’d come and see some friendly faces…” she paused before landing the punch line. “…and your ugly mug too.”

He chuckled “well you ain’t wrong there” he replied scratching his scar lined chin before taking an oatcake from his satchel to feed her horse “You make sure you weren’t followed?”

“Well as I left Blackwater, I hollered over to the sheriff & his men my exact destination, and then made sure the group of men trailin’ me could see me clearly as I rode ahead” Unimpressed with her sarcasm he gave Lilly a steely gaze "No Arthur, I made sure, I promise" 

He huffed before teasing “Well with that head of wild red hair, you’d be easy to spot anyway.” It was now Lilly’s turn to shoot a dirty look in Arthur’s direction as he chuckled "Well me & Hosea are gonna be finalisin’ our plans in a bit if you wanna take a look with us” Casting her eyes downwards she shuffled her feet.

“Not real sure Hosea wants to see me at the moment” she mumbled causing Arthur to raise an eyebrow.

“When has he never wanted to speak with you, you’re practically like a daughter to him”

Lilly blushed “maybe because…he…er…walked in on me”

“That’s it? You know he’s seen a woman before Lil’” Arthur chuckled “he was married to Bessie for 30 years”

“No, he walked in on me” Lilly emphasised but the look on Arthur’s face showed he still wasn’t getting it “…with a gentlemen friend” She thought it was in everybody’s best interests to stay vague with the details for the time being.

“Oh…er…right” he replied scratching his neck, blushing slightly “well, that makes more sense”

An awkward silence now filled the air between the two of them. Neither wanting to look the other in the eye, Lilly kept looking at ground – hoping it would swallow her up, while Arthur focused on feeding and patting her horse before clearing his throat

“So….err…okay then…I’ll catch you later” he stuttered while walking away towards to his tent in embarrassment.

Feeling bemused by the whole situation, and not really wanting to encounter Hosea just yet, Lilly walked in the opposite direction towards Pearson’s wagon.

“Lilly Mae James, you ain’t gonna say hello?” A pleasant voice greeted her as she walked past the dominoes table.

“Tilly!’ Lilly turned to greet her pulling her friend into a warm embrace "How’s things?”

“Oh you know, nothing much changes around here” she giggled picking up some dirty plates from the nearby table “here grab some of these before Grimshaw clips our ears for loitering” Obliging, Lilly walked alongside her towards the wash bowl. “So…what’s this I heard about a gentlemen friend?”

“Miss Jackson, were you eavesdropping on my private conversation?” She jokingly mocked

“Oh please, Like you wouldn’t do the same in my shoes - you’re the queen of listening to things that don’t concern you” she laughed placing a dish in the water "So tell me all about him then”

Lilly felt her face redden. “There’s not much to tell”

“You’re tellin’ me you disappear for weeks, and that has nothin’ to do with a man?” Lilly rolled her eyes

“Firstly I didn’t "disappear”, I was out looking for leads on Dutch’s orders - as you well know. Secondly, it’s complicated"

“Complicated?” Tilly passed her the clean plates to dry “What is he married or something?” Lilly nodded gently trying not to look at the disappointment upon her friends face “Oh! Sorry I didn’t…”

"I should have known the reason no work is getting done is down to you two standing around engaging in idle gossip”

“Well hello to you too Susan” Lilly greeted the camp matriarch who now stood before the pair with her hands firmly on her hips.

“We have been doin’ work” Tilly foolishly argued, gesturing to the clean bowls still in Lilly’s hand.

“Well not quick enough” Grimshaw barked “Get a move on girls, Mr. Pearson has nearly finished preparing supper and people will want feeding” she barked “and don’t forget Miss Jackson that there is a pile of laundry that still needs doing” she added before marching over to her next victim “Miss Jones, that bottle of whiskey in your hand seems to be stopping you from your needlework…”

As soon as she was out of earshot Tilly placed a reassuring arm on Lilly’s, whispering “I don’t understand why you have to go & do somethin’ stupid like that? A married man?”

Shrugging her shoulders Lilly simply replied “You can’t help who you fall for I suppose”

Tilly sighed gently as she passed the last dish over. Turning to look at her oldest friend in camp she smiled “But at least you seem happier now"

“I am” Lilly beamed.

“Ladies” John greeted the two girls “I heard the food was nearly ready - any spare bowls?”. Lilly nodded handing him one from the freshly cleaned pile. Catching his eye giving him a small discreet smile to which he returned his own.

“That’s how you’re gonna greet her?” Tilly teased earning herself a confused look from John. “You two were inseparable before you both decided to go wandering and you welcome her back by askin’ for a clean dish?”

“errr welcome back then I suppose”

“Just ignore her” Lilly chuckled “We all know Mr. Marston ain’t one for outward shows of affection. I suppose I should just be glad he’s actually spoke to me in the presence of an other”

“Hey!” he laughed

“Miss Jackson, will you hurry up” Grimshaw’s voice roared from across camp

“I better go, but our conversation ain’t over” Tilly warned as she hitched up her skirts to run back to the waiting pile of laundry.

“What conversation’s that?” John inquired walking closer so they could talk quietly

“Never you mind” Lilly teased before looking around to make sure nobody else was around “Has Hosea said anythin’ to you yet?”

John shook his head “After what he saw this mornin’ I’ve been keepin’ my distance. I can’t deal with another lecture this week”

“Best thing for it I guess” Lilly nodded, wondering what else had been said to John.

“Nearly 10 years of running with you guys & I’ve never seen that look of disappointment on his face before”

“Well part from Williamson does something stupid” he joked trying to make light of the situation

“Does this make us as big as fools as Bill?” Lilly asked in mock terror, clutching a hand to her chest.

“Nah, that ain’t possible” he chuckled “Suppose it coulda been worse”

“Worse than Hosea catchin’ us in bed together? I don’t see how”

“I think once he’s calmed down, We’ll be able to talk him around, especially if it’s you doin’ the talkin’. She raised an eyebrow “Everyone knows you’re the only person who he lets get away with shit” Lilly opened her mouth to protest, but John carried on “Anyway, you mentioned last night that it was meant to be Arthur meetin’ you in town this morning”

“Dear Lord!” Lilly eyes bulged “You’re right, Hosea givin’ us the silent treatment, but Arthur? I can see him beating the livin’ daylights outta you before reading me the riot act!”

“Well, it ain’t like he hasn’t been lookin’ for an excuse to kick my ass either” he sighed “He still ain’t really talked to me since I got back, yet he’s always the first to have a go when somethin’ goes wrong”

“Give it time, you know he’ll come around eventually, just keep provin’ that you’re still loyal to the gang ” Lilly took John’s empty hand into her own “You know he’s just hurtin’ still –“

“Well it don’t help that every time Abigail has problem with me, she goes runnin’ to him like he’s her knight in goddamn shinin’ armour” he vented

Lilly tensed at the mention of name of the girl who had come between her & John “She just knows he’s got a good heart that’s all”

"You know I was thinkin’ - maybe all of this…” he gestured “..it’s a sign. A sign about us” Lilly titled her head in confusion “After we’ve finished up here in Blackwater, maybe we should just run away together again” he paused looking deep into her eyes “Actually do it this time”

“are you mad?” Lilly hissed “We tried running away last time and it didn’t stick”

“No, you got scared and ran back to Hosea & Dutch after 5 minutes away from camp” seeing the hurt cloud he face he closed his eyes and shook his head “ but it’s different this time”

“How?” she sulked

“You’ve spent weeks down here by yourself before you wrote to Hosea. Maybe this time you’re ready”

“Well what about the boy?”

“That kid could be anybody's” he protested

Rubbing a gentle thumb over the back of John’s hand, Lilly tried to comforted him “That as well be – and let’s be honest she could’ve chosen anybody to trap but for some reason she named you though.”**

“Shit Lil’, you know I dunno how to be a father” He placed his plate back on the table and gently moved Lilly’s chin with his hand so her gaze met his. “…at least not without you by my side”

Tilting there heads, each slowly moved closer to the other with their lips parted in expectation, before being startled by a gentle “Ahem”….