Chapter Text
The wintry air clouded Rose’s lungs as she sat on her horse swaying left and right, travelling along the barren valley. Snow blew in from every damn direction as she tried to make her way through the storm. It had been a long while since everything happened, at least 2 years since Colm O’Driscoll shot down her sister in cold blood. She had been after him ever since but had lost track of him, unsure of where he was or where he went. The winter air stung against her skin and her eyes strained to see if anything was ahead. If she didn’t find shelter soon, the cold would kill her before any man or bullet could. Her hand went down and patted the mane of her horse, “There, there—Lily. Keep on goin’ girl—” her voice was straining, the cold air freezing everything in her.
The winds blew the snow across the lands, blinding out anything in the distance and making it impossible to see. Her body turned almost ridged, her fingers frozen as she gripped tightly onto the reins and the tears that slid down her face were now stuck to her skin. Death was knocking at her door and it was begging to come in. Even Lily wasn’t handling the snow anymore than she was and it felt like ice every time Rose had to breathe in. That couldn’t be good... However, in the distance there was a faint outline of what looked like some buildings and for a moment wasn’t sure if she was hallucinating or not. Her eyes felt heavy slowly making their way forward, until exhaustion and sleep came over her. Whether she would wake up, would be a different story.
Hours went by, maybe even days. But eventually she did wake up and found herself wrapped up in some blankets. The gunshot wound on her arm had been wrapped up and taken care of as well. She was starting to wonder where the hell she was. The sound of the wind echoed against the building she was in as her eyes adjusted to her surroundings. There was still a chill through her bones, but was definitely a lot warmer than before. The door slammed wide open, the wind blowing through before someone walked in, she couldn’t tell who it was till they came up close to the bed. Her eyes finally focused when the sight of Dutch came into view.
“Dutch—“ she coughed, feeling a pain in her chest, “is that ya?“
“Rose—dear lord—Is that really you?”
“Naw Dutch. I’m an agent workin’ for the Pinkertons.” She winked playfully, before her voice cut to a serious tone, “ Course it’s m’ya damn fool.”
“When Hosea said they found you, I couldn’t believe it.” He knelt down beside the bed and wrapped his arms tightly around her, his hand resting against the back of her head. She couldn’t remember the last time she had felt such warmth as she leaned into him, “What are you doing out here in the middle of this goddamn storm?”
She smiled and laughed, though it caused a deep pain in her chest, “Been travelling is all.” As if he would believe that crap, but went with it anyway. She had known Dutch for the longest time. Took her and Agatha in when it was just him, Hosea and Arthur at the time. The door opened and once again, letting in the cold air. A huge smile formed on Rose’s face seeing who had walked in, “Well, well, Arthur Morgan. Aren’t ya a sight for sore eyes.”
Arthur walked over near the bed and leaned up against the wall, lighting up a cigarette, “If that’s what you wanna call it.”
“Still making friends I see.” Dutch said as he looked over at Arthur and shook his head before turning his attention back to her, “My lord. Rose! I didn’t think I’d-- ever see you again.”
“Me too, Dutch,” she smiled for a moment, before it left her face. Rose’s gaze went over to Arthur’s as she laid a hand on Dutch’s arm, “Can ya give us a minute?”
“Sure.” Dutch stood up and walked over to the door, leaving the two of them in peace.
Rose patted her hand on the bed, “I ain’t gonna bite, Arthur.” She smirked.
He walked over, the smoke hanging from his lips as he spoke. “Why is it when I finally get rid of you…that for some unfortunate reason, you somehow make your way back?”
“Oh my,” she placed her hand on her chest, “that’s no way to talk to a lady.”
He smirked, his eyes edging as he looked at her, “You ain’t no lady.”
Her fingers plucked the cigarette from him, her lips wrapping around the tip and inhaling deeply before handing it back over to him, “Thanks for that.”
He placed the smoke back into his mouth, “What you doing here anyway?”
“If I didn’t know any better, I'd think yer still bitter about m’leaving ya all alone and naked in that Motel bed.” She bit her bottom lip trying to hide a smile.
He laughed deep in his throat, still handsome as ever and even had a beard going on. She was starting to wonder why she ever left them. “As I recall, you stole my smokes, most of my money and my clothes.”
“That’s not true. I left ya some clothes. What kind of woman do ya think I am?”
“You left my hat.” He coughed for a moment, “in fact, you left only my hat.”
Her laugh echoed in the small cabin, “Was yer favourite. Couldn’t take that from ya.”
“But you had to take my clothes,” He took a puff of his smoke and shook his head, “Just causing trouble everywhere you go.”
“Ya wouldn’t like m’if I didn’t.” Her fingers reached out and touched his face lightly, which at first the intrusion was not wanted. But after a few seconds, he relaxed. “Ya don’t grow old, Arthur. Just more handsome.”
“Well, shit. You here to flatter me or is there a real reason you’re all the way out here?”
“Always cuttin’ to the chase, huh?” her eyes watched his, admiring him and the deep color of his eyes, “I’m lookin’ for someone. And I reckon yer lookin’ for him too.” Her fingers ran from his bearded face down to his exposed neck.
The touching was lighting a fire in him, wondering how long it had been. However, he wanted to stay on track with the conversation, “Colm O’Driscoll?”
“That’d be him. See, he’s gotta date with a bullet and I need to make sure they meet up.”
She had somehow moved closer to him, not that he noticed though, “What he do to piss you off?”
Her eyes looked away from his for a moment, it had been 2 years. And though she had made peace with grief, she hadn’t made peace with the little shit that shot her, “Colm was supposed to marry m’sister. Instead of being a man and disappearin’ like most of ya fuckers do—”
“Says the woman that buggered off on us.”
Her eyes glared at him before she continued speaking, “--he put a bullet in her…sayin’ he had to make a point.” Some tears welled up in her eyes, but she blinked them away, “So I’d like to return the favour.” Arthur handed over the cigarette to her as she took another huge drag, “So I ain’t goin’ anywhere until I put a bullet in Colm’s head. Or I watch him hang. Whichever comes first.”
“Yeah well, that makes more than the two of us.”
She was a few inches away from his lips as he threw down the smoke and pressed his boot on it, dowsing its light. His eyes watched hers for what felt like an eternity, contemplating whether or not it would be a good idea to delve into her again. He had a weakness for her, she wasn’t some Skirt that hung around in a bar, she could handle herself in a goddamn gun fight and she was strong. Her breathing was light as she cupped his face between her hands before she moved from underneath the blankets and straddled his hips. His hands went to her legs, realizing she didn’t have anything on, only her blouse which was opened slightly, exposing her chest.
“What’s the matter, Arthur?” her skin felt hot under his palms, “haven’t ya missed me?”
He groaned in his chest, pulling her closer, “tempting me, are you?”
She laughed softly and pulled off his hat, “I don’t see ya runnin’ Arthur.” He pulled her hard against his lips, causing a moan to sound from the both of them. She wasn’t sure how long it had been for Arthur, but it had been a long while for Rose. She loved him, though she didn’t need to say it at the moment. Revenge had been hot at her door for the last two years, she didn’t have time for that. For love. And when she felt it with Arthur, she couldn’t be bothered to say anything. Not yet. He lifted her up and placed her back down onto the bed. As he slipped off his jacket and whatever layers he had on, onto the chair. He was finally down to his shirt and pants as Rose reached over and pulled him down, between her legs. Her hands moving down to unbuckle his pants, “Gonna show m’a good time?”
He hummed and smirked, bending down to press his lips against her neck, “When have I not?” His lips worked at her skin, causing moans and whimpers to sound from her. He abruptly stopped looking down at her, “Hold on—“
“Arthur?”
He cleared his throat looking down at her, his cock straining hard against his pants. He tried to ignore it for a few seconds as he spoke, “You ain’t planning on stealing my shit again and buggering off, are you?”
She shook her head, trying not to laugh and trying to keep her composure. A huge grin formed on her face, “Really made an impression on ya, did I?” She yanked hard on his belt, “Now shut up and c’mere—“
In the morning, her skin felt warm and well, everything felt warm…but when her eyes opened, she realized that it was just her in the bed. Though it bothered her a small bit, a smile played along her face realizing he wanted to repay the favour. But spared her the embarrassment of no clothing. She grabbed onto her blouse and pants from the floor and slipped them back on, feeling the cold wrap around her, “Shit—” she gasped and started on the layers of clothing to stay warm. The sound of the wind continued to howl against the building as she finished up, tightening the gun belt around her waist as she made her way outside. It was still windy out, but at least the snow had died down. She could hear the sound of a few men roaring with laughter along with the sound of them arguing. She walked over to the cabin and flung open the door, a few of the men staring at her.
“Wantin’ to freeze the lot of us? Shut the damn door—”
Rose looked to Bill and slammed the door, “It ain’t exactly a tropical paradise in here.”
“So you’re the little number that Hosea found last night.” Micah, grinned and took a swig of whiskey before handing it over to Bill.
“Easy now, boys.” Arthur looked at the lot of them before introducing Rose to them all.
“Well aren’t y’all fellas just a pleasant bunch.” Her eyes went over to Arthur’s as he lit up a smoke. The wood creaked as she walked over to him and grabbed it from him, “Thanks again.” She winked and patted the side of his face before walking out the cabin with it, inhaling it as she did. A few of the men once again roared with laughter, but not before Arthur came flying out as he grabbed onto her arm and pulled her back.
“Gonna be making a habit of stealing my things?”
“Aw, give a girl a break.” She smiled and walked over to her horse, giving her a good pat and some oatcakes. When she turned, Arthur was up close and personal, “Is there somethin’ I can help ya with? ‘Cause I thought I already did that last night.”
“You’re just all sorts of trouble.” He grabbed the smoke from her hand, “Where do you think you’re runnin’ off too?”
“Gonna go find m’ some O’Driscoll boys. Reckon Colm will be with ‘em.” she paused, “Who am I kidding...he’s never not with ‘em.” Her eyes watched his, “Why, think Dutch will figure something out before I do?”
“If you just wait—”
Her hands grabbed onto his jacket, pulling him nice and close. Her lips brushed lightly against his as the smell of tobacco lingered between them, “Naw, I don’t feel like doin’ that. Takes too damn long anyways. Or perhaps ya’d like to convince me?” Arthur’s beard was lightly tickling against her skin, if she wasn’t careful, she’d be dragging him back into the cabin. It would be a pain in the ass to dress back into the four layers she already had on…again.
“Is this how it’s gonna be?” His free hand slipped around the back of her neck and gripped tightly, causing a gasp to sound from her, “cause I don’t play games.”
She smirked and quickly ran the tip of her tongue along his lips, “Oh, but I do, Arthur.”
Roughly he pulled her lips to his, a pleasurable warmth shot from her chest and down to her core, causing an ache to form between her legs. Though they had fun last night, she wanted more and always wanted more. Her moans vibrated against his lips and desire flowed through him, how much he wanted to fuck her again. Make her scream his name, like he did last night. But there were other things that needed to be done. He pulled away giving her some space to breathe.
“Alright, I suppose I could wait for Dutch to—use his brain.” Her cheeks were warm and red as she looked at him. He may be an outlaw, but once you got on his warm side, he was easy to get along with.
He smirked, “Good. We’ll find Colm. Don’t you worry.”
“Then ya tell Dutch to hurry the fuck up.” She pulled away from her horse, “Been waitin’ two years to shoot that son of a bitch. I ain’t waitin’ any longer.” She walked by him and over to see Pearson, wondering what he was up too. Rose walked into the open cabin, “somethin’ smells mighty fine. I think—”
Pearson shot up to fix himself and take another swig of whiskey. “Had I known I’d have female company, I would have cleaned up a little."
“Oh trust me.” Rose laughed and grinned, “I ain’t the greatest company.”
“She ain’t lying.” Arthur said as he came up behind her.
“Lucky Hosea found ya, helluva time to be out on your horse.”
“What can I say?” She walked over and looked down at the bottle that Pearson was drinking from, “I loved the idea of freezin’ m’diddey's off.” She smiled cheekily. Arthur groaned and shook his head, “So what’s cookin’?”
Pearson laughed and walked over to the table, looking over whatever food was lying there, “Let’s see—we have a few cans of food and a rabbit. For ten, twelve…” Pearson looked at Rose, “thirteen people? When I was in the navy—“
Arthur laughed, “I–I do not wish to hear about…what you got up to in the Navy, Mr.Pearson.”
Rose walked over to Arthur, “Well that’s just not fair. I ain’t opposed to hearin’ some stories from Mr. Pearson.”
“No—” Arthur protested.
“We were stranded at sea…for fifty days.”
“And you unfortunately survived…” Arthur quipped at him.
“When we ran away from Blackwater…I wasn’t able to get supplies in.” Pearson grabbed onto a black cauldron and carried it over to the fire.
“Well when government agents are hunting you down…sometimes shopping trips need to be cut short. We’ll survive…we always have and if needs be, we can eat you… you’re the fattest.”
Rose looked at Arthur, “look if there ain’t enough food ‘round here. Let m’go and have a look. I’m good with a gun and shootin’ shit.”
Pearson looked at her, “I already sent Lenny and Bill hunting and they found nothing.”
Arthur stuck his hands over the fire, trying to warm them up, “Well Lenny’s more into book learning than hunting. Bill’s a fool.” Charles walked over to the lot of them, listening to the conversation.
“Ya just make all sorts of friends ‘round here, don’t ya? Why don’t ya let m’head up to the mountains and I’ll bring ya boys back some goddamn meat. Consider the lot of y’all seem to only have it hanging between yer legs.” She winked playfully at Arthur before he continued to speak.
“Goddamn it, Rose.” He groaned, slightly embarrassed by her words, “Look, unless those mountains are full of game that wanna read...ain’t no wonder they found—”
Charles cut him off, “Enough of this. We’ll go find something. Come on, Arthur.”
“Wait a second, hold on—” Pearson hurried over and picked up a jar of something and handed it to Arthur, “here…you’re gonna need something to eat out there.”
“Assorted salted offal…” he chuckled for a moment, “starving would be preferable.”
Rose walked over and smirked before finally walking out of the cabin and over to her horse, “shall we head out boys—”
“Whoa there—” Arthur said, catching up with her and turning her to face him, “you can stay here, little miss.”
“Little miss? S’cuse me? Do ya know who yer talkin’ too?” The winds stung against her exposed skin on her face, “I can handle m’self, Arthur—”
He bent close to speak to her, “ you think I didn’t notice that wound on that arm of yours? Boast all you want about your shootin’—” her eyes looked at his, “but you can’t go huntin’ with that arm of yours.”
“I’ve been through much worse, Arthur. But ya wouldn’t know that—”
He admired the way she looked at him, how strong she was. Sure, she could handle herself, but then what would happen if she couldn’t? “We won’t be long. You stay here and stay warm.”
“Won’t be able to without ya—” she lifted her fingers up to his lips, “Mighty bossy... I kinda like it.” She pulled away from him, “now ya boys stay safe out there. Charles, ya make sure Arthur here makes it back in one piece. Need him alive.”
She lifted her hand up gesturing a goodbye as they slowly disappeared towards the mountain. Her feet crunched in the snow as she made her way over the Dutch’s cabin. She opened the door to the sight of Dutch and Micah and a few other men sitting around trying to figure out where to scout. Dutch looked up from the papers they had scattered around.
“Rose—”
“Mornin’ gentlemen. Mind if I join?”
“No, not at all.”
Hosea walked over to Rose, “M’dear, look at you.” The dad she never had, Hosea was a godsend. Always kept a level head, even when the rest of them didn’t. Rose wrapped her arms around him.
“So good to see ya, Hosea.” She smiled softly before he pulled away and went back over to Dutch.
Her and Dutch had an understanding, a very deep understanding. But he did know her and her sister a long time ago. After her mother had passed away and her father had gotten himself killed. They had nowhere to go. She was about 13 and Agatha was 6 when they had gone with Dutch, Hosea and Arthur. Rose had an understanding of what is was Dutch and them did and what she was getting into. But it was better than nothing, better than her trying to take care of her younger sister. After they left...12 years flew by. So many years... And yet Dutch looked at her the same way he always did.
With love...
At least his version of it.
Rose sat down in one of the chairs, Micah offering her up a cigarette. She smiled and took it from his hand, lighting up a match and inhaling the tobacco.
“I need some of you men to go out and scout the area. The snow seems to be dying off in our favour, would appreciate if y’all could go and see what we’re dealing with.”
Bill stood up with the smoke in his mouth, “we can head out now, weather seems good. At least decent ‘nough.”
Rose sat quietly smoking, as everyone left from the cabin, minus her and Dutch. He turned to look at her, “Nothing’s changed for you has it, Rose?”
“A lot has changed.” She chuckled and inhaled more of her smoke, “And a lot has happened since ya last saw m’and m’sister. Most of it ain’t good.” Her body felt a little shaky, but she stood up from the chair and walked over to Dutch, leaning against the table.
“How is Agatha these days—” he went to look at her, seeing the hardness from the subject. She took in the last of her smoke and threw it onto the ground, breathing out the excess.
“Been dead for the last two years, Dutch.” She hated having to even tell him that. But it was the reality of what she was going through.
Dutch reached over and rested his hand on her shoulder, “I’m awful sorry to hear that, Rose. She was a good kid.”
“Yeah. Which is why I’m personally lookin’ to put a goddamn bullet in Colm O’Driscoll’s head. And I heard yer lookin’ for him. So, like I told Arthur…I’m stickin’ ‘round until that little shit dies.”
Dutch watched her eyes closely, “Where the hell is Arthur?”
“Gone out with Charles to do some huntin’, so that we don’t hafta cook Pearson. Should it come to that.” A smile played along her face before a faint tint of red dusted her cheeks. The night that she had slept with Dutch popped into her mind. It was one time and after it happened, her and Agatha had left and disappeared into the night. Rose wondered if Dutch still felt bitter about it and sometimes the thought would invade her. But as she stood there looking at him. It all came back and she was sure he was thinking about it too.
“You’ve grown into a fine woman, Rose.”
She smiled at the compliment, “ya didn’t do so bad yerself, Dutch.” Being playful was her thing, always had and will be. Her arms wrapped around his body, hugging him tightly. Though unlike Arthur, Dutch didn’t mind so much, “I never did get the chance to thank ya, for everythin’ ya had done for m’and Agatha.”
“It was my pleasure.” He whispered, hugging her back and holding her close. She pulled away from him, not wanting to linger.
“I best be headin’ out, go and help Pearson make some food for these poor people. If ya ever need another gun, Dutch. Know that I’m always willin’ and ready.”
“Good to know.” He rubbed the bottom of his stubbly chin. She went to walk out the door when his voice stopped her. “Why’d you leave so damn quick that night?” She closed her eyes, thinking she should have forced herself to go with Arthur.
“Shit—” she whispered to herself and turned to look at Dutch. Of course he didn’t forget about it, “ya seem to be makin’ it a hard thing to understand. Ya wanted somethin’ and I let ya have it.” Flashes of that night were coming back to her. And it was causing a hell of a fluster, “I let ya have all of me .”
Dutch walked over to her, closing the space between them, “You left without a goddamn word to me. Just up and whisked you and Agatha into the night. Did what I say bother you that much?”
Her hands clenched into fists, “I couldn’t return yer words, Dutch…ya are a fine man, probably one of the best that I know. But I was young.”
He laughed and it was deep and taunting, “18 years of age, my dear. And that didn’t stop you from coming to me that night.”
The ways of the outlaws, was now her way of living. It was a scary trek, trying to chase down that train. Jumping off a hilltop and onto the damn thing. She had never done that before. But she had been held up at gunpoint and those men were talking all sorts of wrong things. Things that they were gonna do to her.
Dutch had saved her life in more ways than one.
When they all headed back to camp after robbing the damn train, all Rose wanted to do was curl up and forget it happened. She knew she’d have to be stronger in this line of work. And be stronger for her younger sister, Agatha.
She walked over to Dutch’s tent and walked in, “Ya got a minute?”
“Rose—” he stood up from the chair and turned to face her, her cheeks filled with red seeing his shirt was open, exposing his chest.
“Oh—lord—” She turned and hid her face, “I’m mighty sorry, Dutch.”
He looked down and smirked as he started to button up his shirt, “Sorry—wasn’t expecting company.”
“It’s fine—I wanted to thank ya for savin’ m’life. Lord knows what those men were gonna do…” though she had a pretty good idea of what. A warm hand touched on her shoulder as she turned to face Dutch, with both his hands resting on her.
“I gave your sister my word that I wouldn’t let anything happen to you.” He laughed for a moment, “said she’d put a bullet between my legs if something did.”
“An 11 year old threatenin’ ya?” Rose smiled and laughed for a moment, “Hearts in the right place, but I wouldn’t worry too much. She can’t shoot worth a damn.” Her smile faded fast, “probably should fix that…” she was really getting off track. Whatever it was she was feeling, Lord it was hot and aching. There was a want and need that she couldn’t explain. But she walked close to him and went to press her lips against his cheek, “Again, thank ya—”
Dutch turned his head, capturing her lips against his. The aching feeling in her lower stomach flared up as his lips touched hers. At first, she wasn’t certain and pulled away slightly to look at him. His eyes looked down at hers, his hands slinking up to cup around her face, her skin felt hot beneath his palms. “Do you want me?” He whispered, “‘cause I ain’t gonna lie. I want you.”
A part of her had come to his tent for a reason that was not pure. Yes, she did want to thank him, but after stirring in her bed for lord knows how long. She came here. The question lingered in her mind but seconds later she reached out and grabbed onto his shirt, trying to rip off the fabric. A groan sounded from him as her lips found his. Everything went from slow to fast real quick. He threw most of her clothing onto the ground, before lightly throwing her onto his bed.
His eyes looked hungry, as if he was going to devour her and her eyes went to his throbbing cock, dripping with his own lust, “spread them pretty legs for me.” And she did just that, his eyes trailing down to her glistening cunt. He knelt down on the floor between her legs and pulled her hips close to his face. Her eyes watched him before he delved into her wet folds, his tongue running along over her clit, causing her body to squirm and twitch beneath his touch.
“D-dutch—” her fingers reached out and ran them through his hair.
He lapped at her for a few more minutes, taking in the taste of her before he kissed up her body and planted himself between her legs. Her desire and lust wore off a little bit, realizing she hadn’t done this before...at all. Sure, fooled around with some men, but it didn’t get far as she always had to pull a gun on them. His touch was gentle as he pulled her close to him, the tip of his cock pushed lightly against her opening.
She had no idea how it was supposed to feel, but he pushed in feeling some resistance. Her moans turned into whimpers, feeling some pain before it dulled down into nothing. Dutch looked down at her, his breathing heavy, perhaps she should have told him. But she didn’t have to, because he knew. He knew the minute he felt her. She didn’t want to talk about it and reached her hands up to pull him down, her lips finding his in a searing kiss.
“Dutch—please—”
He moved slowly at first, and then rested his head in the crook of her neck, moving against her hard and fast. Her whimpers turned into moans that echoed in and outside of the tent. She was wondering why she hadn’t done this before, “Rose—” he breathed against her skin and held her close. His arm slipped underneath her back and pulled her close, his cock pushed further into her aching core. The pleasure caused her to cry out and cling onto him more. “Dutch—” she cried out.
“Come for me—” he whispered, feeling her cunt squeeze and tightening around him, he wasn’t sure he’d be able to hold on much longer.
Her head arched back, breathing hard and ragged as a shuddering pleasurable feeling shot through her. Dutch groaned, feeling her hot and pulsing around him as his movements slowed, letting her ride out her orgasm. Her legs wrapped tightly around his waist, his thrusts hard before slamming into one last time as he came, filling her with hot spurts of cum. He pulled out and laid down beside her on the small bed and pulled her close to him, “Could be like this every day, you know—” his hands ran along her sides, whispering in her ear, “Be with me.” She turned to look at him, Lord, was this man about to say something he shouldn’t? “I love you, Rose. And I have for quite some time.”
The words washed over her, along with the feeling of dread. She didn’t love him.
Rose stood still, her cheeks burning from the memory and it made her heart ache with pain, “I can’t do this. It’s in the past, Dutch. Why ya wantin’ to drudge up old memories, when they cause nothin’ but grief...”
He was a few inches from her, standing so close. He may have aged, but he was still a handsome man. “You left without saying a word. Course I’ve been thinking ‘bout it all these years.”
“Dutch—”
“Rose.” His hand reached up and lightly ran his fingers along her face, “I loved you. Was that such a hard thing to bear?”
“Kinda.” She sighed, could have had this fight 12 years ago, but no. She had to bail at that moment, “I gave ya a part of m’that no other man will be able to ‘ave. Why can’t ya take that for what it was?”
“And what would that be?”
“A night of passion. I ain’t gonna lie, yer a fine man indeed. But I can’t do this. Much has happened, Dutch and it ain’t been good things.” Even with all her layers of clothing on, it still felt cold in the cabin.
“Like what, Rose?”
The pain was flooding her like clockwork, her eyes looked at his, “Dutch—please. It’ll do ya no good to know.”
“Tell me.” He seemed so goddamn aggressive about this.
A few tears fell down from her eyes, though now she looked more angry than sad. It looked like he was about to give up as he walked away from her towards the cabin door, when she finally gritted out through her teeth, “I was pregnant.”
The sound of him walking stilled to a halt, and then there was nothing but silence for a few minutes. She turned slowly to face him as he finally started to speak again, “You were pregnant...with my goddamn child—”
“Yes. About two months after I left with Agatha. We had a run in with—some outlaws. I was injured real bad and—” Her eyes left his, “ya get it.”
Dutch, though an outlaw, could have been a father. A part of him, in that moment, started to like the idea of his own child... “were you ever gonna come back?”
“It don’t matter now.” He moved forward and pressed his lips against hers deeply and for a moment she gave in, moaning softly. Finally she pulled away from him, “Dutch—”
“It’s Arthur, ain’t it? You love him.”
Rose laughed softly, “I do. But don’t ya go tellin’ him that stuff. He don’t know and it’s best to stay that way.” She went and hugged him tightly, before she pulled back to look at him, “Ya’ve done a lot for m’Dutch. I’ve always loved ya, I’ve cared for our friendship. And that night—” she blushed and smirked, “I’m glad it was ya.”
His arms tightened around her body as he looked at her, “keep talking like that—and I’m not gonna be able to contain myself—”
“Well ain’t that tough for ya...” she turned her head over towards the door, “Arthur should be back with Charles now. I better go…”
His grip was tight on her as she tried to move from him, “Just one last kiss.”
It wasn’t like Arthur was courting her or anything like that and she had never been tied down to one man, “Since ya asked so nicely—” as she stood there looking at him, contemplating the idea. The cabin door opened. She pulled away so damn fast, unsure of who was walking through the door, but it was Arthur and now, she couldn’t bear to look at him. She hurried past him and out into the cold. “This is stupid. I ain’t with Arthur—” she mumbled to herself. The thought about taking her horse and heading out had crossed her mind seeing that the weather was bearable. But decided against it as she started back over to the cabin they had put her in. As she reached the door, Arthur’s voice caught her off guard, causing her to jump a little. “A-arthur--ya tryin’ to give m’a heart attack?”
“Mhmm...” he lit up a smoke and turned to look at her, “Do I need to ask what was going on back there? Or can I rightfully assume you just can’t keep your pants on.”
She grimaced at the comment, only laughing a little, “Don’t ya dare, Arthur. It ain’t none of yer business.”
He walked over to her and pushed her into the cabin, shutting the door behind him. “Maybe not. But if Molly finds out ‘bout it, you gotta deal with her.”
“Dutch and I were talkin’ ‘bout the past. There, happy?”
“Not even close.”
She groaned and shook her head, “It ain’t yer business. It’s not like I’m sweet on him or anythin’ like that—”
“Looked pretty sweet on him in there—”
She walked over to him and grabbed onto the smoke, with still lots to go, she threw it onto the ground and stomped her foot on it. Arthur didn’t look too pleased about that, “Now I know, ya’d never understand, Arthur Morgan. But what happened between Dutch and I, was a long time ago.”
He hummed in his throat, looking down at her, “Is that so?”
“We’re done here.” She went to pull away, but Arthur had a tight grip around her. She was mighty angry and definitely didn’t want to be around him. Or anyone for that matter.
“Then who you sweet on?” his eyes looked down at hers, pulling her closer, “You can tell me—” his voice was taunting her, feuling on the anger and annoyance she was feeling.
She took a deep breath, “Don’t ask questions ya don’t want the answers to, Arthur.”
“Will you just goddamn say—”
“Ya.” she cut him off, “It’s ya, alright? And has been for quite a while...” his grip loosened slightly as she pulled away from him and walked out of the cabin. Giving Arthur something to think about. She looked over to her horse, Lily, hitched up at the post. “Fuck it—” she walked over to her horse and hopped on, taking her out into the snow, “Come on girl—gonna go find us some O’Driscoll boys. Cause fuck the lot of ‘em.” And headed out, following the tracks that the boys had taken. They came back just as she took Lily and waited for them to crowd into Dutch’s cabin. She heard a few of them saying they found a ranch, south of their location. It didn’t take too long to get there, the blizzard and lack of wind made it easier to navigate the land. When she got there, she left her horse behind to scout out the area, with Arthur’s binoculars. She crouched down and went over to the edge looking over some cabins.
“There ya are, son of a bitch.” She whispered, it looked like Colm was heading out somewhere. If she was gonna do this, it had to be quick and when she turned to head down the hill, one of Colm’s men held her up at gunpoint.
“Nice n’ easy, sweetheart—” her eyes watched his from under her hat, “Let’s go—” he motioned her to move, she didn’t want to argue and went along with him back towards the ranch.
“What the hell is goin’ on?” Colm looked seeing one of his men bringing someone to him.
“Found her on the hilltop, scouting out the area it would seem.” He shoved her forward and Colm hopped off his horse. Rose looked up at him, her eyes glaring at him.
Colm grinned walking over to her. He didn’t age well, his eyes looked tired and had many cares lining his face, making him look a lot older than he was, and his teeth...she didn’t even want to go there. “It’s been a long time, hasn’t Rose?”
Angry tears filled her eyes as she looked at him, but she didn’t say much. His hand reached out as he roughly grabbed onto her face.
“I see you’re still bitter about Agatha—” her teeth gritted at the mention of her sister's name coming from his mouth. Her hands clenched into fists, wanting to lunge herself at him. “Sweet thing. Such a horrible thing to befall a beauty like that.”
“Ya killed her—”
He smiled and ran the pad of his thumb along her bottom lip, “Sometimes you need to make a point. I was gonna marry her. But she didn’t fancy marryin’ me.”
“I don’t blame her.”
His hand made hard contact with her face, the sound echoing through the skies. “You got a mouth on you. I think I’ll put it to good use later.”
Her eyes closed for a moment, the thought was horrifying, “I’d rather be dead, than let ya touch me—”
“It’ll be like old times, Rose.” He whispered against her ear before he laughed and pulled away from her. Most of his men had headed back to their post, he looked over to the two beside her, “throw her in one of the cabins. I’ll see to her later.” He got on his horse and rode away from them, disappearing down the hill. Two of the men grabbed onto her arms and started to move her.
“Sorry boys—" it was swift and precise as she grabbed a pistol from one of them and shot him in the face, shoving the other one away as she ducked into cover.
“Shit—” she whispered, as a few bullets flew past her, “start a goddamn fight with all of ‘em? Good goin’, Rose.”
She popped up quickly, taking a few shots and pinging a few of them down for good. Waiting before she went up again, only to have a bullet carve along her shoulder. “Fuck!” she yelled out feeling the pain fuck with her senses.
Arthur ran over to her and hiked her behind a rock, giving her more cover. “C’mere ya damn fool—”
“I-I don’t need yer fuckin’ help, Arthur!” She looked, seeing Dutch and a few of the guys, sneaking down.
He chuckled at her snarky remark, “You’re welcome. Now stay low—”
She came up anyways and took a few more shots, hitting a few more men.
Arthur glared at her, “Goddamnit woman. I told you to stay low.” He came up, shooting off his gun. He was a good shot. Always was. But hell if Rose was gonna be useless to the lot of them.
“Sorry, Arthur—” she pulled herself away from the rock and ran over to some boxes, her back hitting hard against the wood as she laid low before peeking out and firing her gun.
“Goddamn stubborn woman...” he voice growled out.
The pain in her arm wasn’t so bad. It was what Colm had said that was truly bothering her. She looked down at the pistol and groaned, seeing she had only one bullet left. There was one man left, but he grabbed onto the back of her jacket and shoved his pistol deep into her neck.
“Keep nice and still—” he whispered against her ear and then yelled out to Arthur and the rest of them, “Now ya’ll better put down your guns. Or else the pretty one gets a bullet in her head.”
Rose struggled, trying to find something she could fight him off with, “Don’t ya dare, Dutch—I ain’t—I ain’t worth it!” It dug deeper into her skin, causing her to cry out, “Keep yer weapons boys. Don’t listen to this little shit—” he kneed her hard into her back as a searing heat went to the area.
Arthur shifted his head out and looked over to Dutch. They couldn’t shoot him, not without hitting her. There was some blood dripping off of her and onto the snow as her hand reached slowly to the knife the guy had on his side and gripped tightly onto the handle. It was swift and quick as she stabbed the knife into his side; he screamed and pulled away from her trying to get the knife out. Rose pulled her gun out and pressed it against his head. A loud bang echoed as some of his blood splattered onto her clothing and face. The sound of his body vibrated in her ears as he thumped down onto the ground.
Her breathing was ragged and hard as she looked down at the body. The pain in her arm seemed dull from the adrenaline coursing through her with anger also blinding her. So much, that she was gonna throw all caution to the wind and chase down that son of a bitch Colm, herself. And peel his eyes out from his skull. Her hair had come undone as locks of brown curls hid the darkness that filled her eyes. She turned away from the body and made her way back over to Arthur, “I’m goin’ after him—”
“The hell you are—” he grabbed onto her, trying not to grab her bleeding arm. “You’re not chasing after him the way you are.”
“I had one fucking chance, Arthur. I was so close, closer than any of ya’ve gotten and he got away!” could she really stop how she was feeling? Her eyes shook as she looked at Arthur, “Coulda ended this! Lord knows where the little shit is hiding now—”
Dutch walked over, a few of the others following behind, “We’ll get Colm, Rose. He ain’t going anywhere.”
“I’d like to see any of ya try and stop me.” Her eyes were dark and edged, “Just try—”
“I think it’d be wise that you head back to camp.” She turned to look at Arthur, “Go and rest. You’ll thank us for it later.”
Dutch motioned Bill over, “Take her back to camp and make sure Ms.Grimshaw sees to that wound.” Bill lightly placed his hand on her back, urging her to move. Rose looked behind her at Arthur and then walked with Bill back to her horse.
“Naw, you can ride with me. It’ll be hard to climb up with that arm.”
She wanted to argue, but decided against it as she walked over to him and grabbed onto his hand as he hoisted her up. As they moved forward, Rose whistled, her horse turning and following behind as they headed back to camp.
“Fine horse you got there.” Bill chimed in.
“She’s been through a lot with me.” She smiled softly watching Lily walking along, “m’only friend.”
“Don’t seem like it. What about Arthur?”
Rose laughed, “What ‘bout him? More like a pain in m’ass.”
“Arthur Morgan, as much as I hate to say it... he’s a good man. When he’s not being a complete prick. I highly doubt he would have put up with your shit as long as he has.”
“What are ya on ‘bout?”
“After he saw you, he wouldn’t shut up about what you did. Said you took his clothes and left only his hat.” Bill laughed, “would’ve paid to see the look on his face.”
She smirked, “Would’ve seen more than his face, Bill.” She laughed and whistled once more, making sure Lily was still following. They reached the camp as Ms.Grimshaw came out of one of the cabins.
“Oh for pete’s sake.” She hurried over to Rose and helped her down off her horse, looking at the wound on her arm, “You’re just as bad as the boys. I swear you’d all die if I weren’t ‘round.”
Rose nodded her head, “I have zero doubts about that, Ms.Grimshaw.”
“Come then, get you all cleaned and patched up.”
The day was losing its light as she waited for Arthur to come back. The others came, but apparently Arthur went chasing down one of O’Driscoll’s boys, hoping to bring him back here. Rose stood up from her bed and slipped on her coat wrapping it around her as she walked outside. Arthur came up with something or someone on the back of his horse, “Here we are you sack of shit. Let’s introduce you to the boys.” he hopped off and hiked him over his shoulder.
“Don’t hurt me, please.”
“Ooh, don’t worry, they’re real nice.”
Rose walked over to Arthur and looked down at the guy, “Caught yerself a live one, did ya?”
“I did. Slippery Bastard.”
“Please ma’am, lady, whoever you are—”
“Lemme stop ya right there, boy.” Rose looked down at him, “I’m the last person ya should be beggin’ for yer life. To be honest, wouldn’t mind seein’ ya squirm a little bit.”
“She got a point.” Arthur laughed as they walked over to Dutch’s cabin.
Dutch walked outside, “Ho, found the little shit, did you?”
“Yep—” Arthur threw him down onto the ground, “I got him.” And pulled out his knife to cut the rope around his feet.
“Very good.” Dutch started rolling up a piece of paper, “Welcome to your new home...Hope you’re real happy here.”
Arthur grabbed onto the guy and lifted him up onto his feet, “You want me to make him talk?”
Rose walked over to the guy looking him over, “I think y’all should let m’have a try. Ya like to have fun boy?”
“I—I do—”
“Can start off with some metal spikes. Get ‘em real nice and hot to poke ya with. Then we can go from there.”
The boy looked frightened, more so than he did before Arthur caught him, “I ain’t with O’Driscoll, I swear. Please keep her away from me!”
Dutch looked at Arthur and then at Rose, “Oh no, now all we’ll get is lies. Uncle. Mr. Williamson. Tie this maggot up someplace safe. We get him hungry first.”
“Aw, ya boys ain’t no fun. Could get him talkin’ real quick.”
“Remind me not to piss you off, Rose.” Arthur smirked.
Dutch looked over to the boy, “I got a saying, my friend...we shoot fellers as need shooting...save fellers as need saving...and feed ‘em as need feeding. We’re gonna find out what you need. I can’t believe it!” Dutch turned around to walk away, “An O’Driscoll in my camp.”
“No, I ain’t an O’Driscoll, mister!” the boy started to yell out, “I hate that feller.”
“Oh, whatever you say, son.” Dutch yelled out and looked at Arthur, “Well done, Arthur.”
“I’m just sorry we missed out on Colm.”
Dutch looked over at Rose, seeing the pain if not the annoyance about that, “Oh, there’s time enough for that. Now, I gotta figure out if we can hit that train.” Dutch walked back into his cabin and shut the door.
Arthur looked over at Rose, “See Ms. Grimshaw patched you up.”
“That she did.” Rose walked with Arthur back over to his cabin.
“Also see you’re ignoring her demands to be resting in bed.”
She laughed, “What she don’t know, won’t hurt her.” They reached his cabin, stopping outside, “Well Arthur...have a good night.”
His eyes watched hers for a moment as she turned away and walked back over to her cabin. The door shut behind her as she slowly stripped off her jacket. She walked over to bed and picked up the bottle of whiskey she left on the floor, chugging back whatever was left.
“Please Colm! I’m beggin’ ya...Don’t hurt Agatha!”
Colm turned to look at her.
“I’ll do whatever ya want. Anythin’. Please—” her voice cracked as she looked at Agatha, knelt down on the ground, some blood sliding down her the side of her face, “Take m’instead—”
Rose stared down at the bottle, her hand shaking lightly.
“I don’t want you—” his gun sounded off as Agatha’s body went rigid as she fell with blood pouring onto the ground.
Rose fell silent, she couldn’t scream. She couldn’t do anything.
“But now that you mention it—” Colm walked over to her and motioned to his men, “take her to my cabin.”
Her eyes shut tightly, trying to ignore the memories that flooded her.
Colm walked over to her and tied her to his bed.
First he hit her.
Then cut her.
It wasn’t until later that he touched her, and it wasn’t a pleasant touch.
Then he forced himself on her. Multiple times.
“Does it feel good?” he whispered, “cause I’m gonna do this—again and again and again—”
A few tears fell down her face as she whipped the bottle at the wall near the front door, unaware that someone was coming in at the same time. The bottle shattered against the wall as Arthur jumped back, “Jesus, are you trying to kill me?”
“I didn’t—” she paused, seeming both confused and upset, “I tried to save Agatha.” Arthur shut the door behind him and walked over to her.
“Rose…”
“I offered myself, so that he wouldn’t kill her. But he did and then he took me and tortured me and raped me...” her teeth gritted as she walked around the cabin, “I coulda killed him today. I was so close, Arthur...so fuckin’ close. Closer than I was ever gonna get!”
He stood there looking at her, “We’ll get him, Rose. You’re not the only one wanting him dead.”
“But I coulda done it, Arthur—” her voice shook, before she yelled, “and then he’d be gone!”
“And so would you—” Arthur yelled back, which was both frightening and quite the turn on. He took off his hat and placed it down on the table. He sighed and slipped off his coat before he walked over to her.
“Why does that matter? He woulda been dead. And that’s all that should matter, Arthur.”
“You are the most stubborn woman I’ve ever met.”
She sighed and looked at him, now wondering, “Why are ya in m’cabin?”
Arthur looked at her, but decided not to say anything as he walked over to her and pulled her close. His head resting in the crook of her neck. She gave in and placed her hands on his back pulling him close. The need for someone to be there, to tell her everything would be alright. A battle she had endured for the last 2 years.
Her lips went to his ear, whispering softly, “You’re a fine man, Arthur Morgan.” His arms tightened around her, “Stay with m’tonight?”
He pulled away slightly and looked down at her, “You sure?”
“I wouldn’t be askin’ if I wasn’t.” She smiled softly and cupped his face in her hands, “I think I’m a fool.”
“And why’s that?”
“To think that I could ever leave ya behind, Arthur Morgan.” She grabbed onto his hands and pulled him over to her bed, slipping off her blouse, leaving her half naked. She had some scars that littered along her chest, the freshly bandaged wound on her arm. Arthur grabbed onto the waist of her pants and pulled her close, unbuckling her belt and pants. As her hands worked at his shirt, slowly exposing his chest. A smile played along her lips seeing his chest hair, “Fine man indeed.”
He hummed deep in his throat looking down at her, his hands sliding down her pants and then along her sides and ass, pulling her hips hard against his. She laughed softly, still trying to get his pants off.
“Won’t be able to get these damn things off, if ya keep doing that—”
“That so?” he smirked and pushed her back onto the bed, slipping everything off and kicking them to the side as he crawled into bed with her and under the covers. Her fingers danced along his chest as she snuggled close to him, his skin felt burning hot against hers. Her eyes wandered from his face and down along his chest and stomach as it disappeared under the blankets.
“Arthur—” her eyes still looked sad, but the tears had stopped. She pushed herself up and straddled his hips.
He moaned, sliding his hands onto her thighs, “Thought we was gonna sleep.” A soft gasp sounded from her, feeling his cock push against her wet folds. She shifted her hips, feeling the length of him rub against her clit. A groan sounded from Arthur as he moved her hips upwards, pushing his way into her aching cunt. His eyes looking up at her naked form, “Though, I shouldn’t complain.” He chuckled deep in his throat.
“Naw, ya shouldn’t.” Her moans were soft and quiet.
His fingers ran to her wound on her arm, “sure you can handle it?”
“I can—”
He sat up, wrapping her legs around his waist, her chest pressed against his, causing all sorts of pleasurable feelings to course through her. “I think—” he pulled her hips close to his, her arms wrapping tightly around him, as he thrust up into her core. Feeling her hot and tight around his length, “best you let me do the work—” he groaned holding her close. Her whimpers and moans turning into gasps as he fucked her.
“A-arthur—”
His lips found her neck as he kissed and bit her skin lightly, his beard burning and tickling against her. His breathing became ragged.
Her fingers ran through his hair, “I’m close—” she breathed out.
Arthur chuckled against her skin, finally moving back up to her lips, hovering over them, “So soon?” Her eyes watched his, god she loved this man. She loved him so much. And even though she told him she was sweet on him, he probably still didn’t know the truth. Which was fine for the time being.
He lifted her up and laid her down on the bed, his hips moving hard and slow. He looked down at her, watching her thrive and squirm under his touch, how good he was making her feel. Especially after everything that happened. Her moans grew louder with each thrust, hitting her sweet spot. She tightened her legs around his waist, pulling him close, wanting more of him.
“Harder—please Arthur—”
He bent down and captured her lips, his tongue tasting her mouth as he tried to thrust harder, sweat lingering between the two. His one hand dug into her hip as the other held him up for support, looking down at her.
Definitely wasn’t cold in the cabin anymore.
His thrusts went to slow movements, feeling himself closer and closer to climaxing. Her hand went to his hair, slicking it back from the sweat that accumulated and pulled him close, “Cum for me—” she whispered against his lips.
“Rose—” he moaned against her lips, before he groaned and yelled out, thrusting slowly as hot spurts of cum filled her womb. The feeling of emptiness came when he pulled out, but his fingers filled her quickly, rubbing his thumb against her clit, her moans turning into cries of pleasure, “ Does it feel good ?”
Her eyes shot open wide, for a second it didn’t sound like Arthur. She didn’t feel well and she didn’t want this anymore, “Stop—” her tone went from soft to harsh.
“Rose?” He was starting to wonder if he wasn’t doing something right.
“I said—STOP!”
He pulled his fingers away from her and looked down at her. A couple of tears slid down the sides of her face. Arthur closed his eyes, breathing hard, “Rose, look at me…” her eyes went over to his, her hands cupping his face. Warmth surrounded him, causing his eyes to close for a moment. This wasn’t Colm. It was Arthur. “That bastard is gonna die. One way or another, for what he did to you.”
Her heart was pounding hard against her chest, as she looked at him, “I’m sorry, Arthur—”
“C’mere,” he laid down on the bed and pulled her close, both laying on their sides. Her hand went up, playing with the beard on his face.
“Like you with a beard. Better be keeping that.” She smiled softly, his right hand on her side, pulling her closer to him. Throughout the night they stayed like that till morning came.
The light shined through the windows as she opened her eyes slowly, realizing she must have turned away at some point during the night. Arthur’s arm was tight around her waist with his arousal twitching against her backside. She went to move when his arm tightened.
“Where you think you’re goin’?” his voice rasped out.
Rose smiled and ran her hand along his arm before she turned to face him, his arm still around her waist, “I’m goin’ to get dressed and see what ya’ll are doin’ today.”
He smirked, “One helluva nosy person, huh?”
“Of course, Arthur. Ya wouldn’t have it any other way—”
He pulled her down, kissing her deeply, “You’re right.”
She pulled away from him, feeling the cold in the cabin hit her bare skin, “Goddamn! Think I’m gonna have a talk with Dutch ‘bout his plan for us to leave. ‘Cause I am hatin’ this cold!” she hurried around picking up her clothes, which were also cold to the touch. Arthur sat up and placed his feet on the ground, shivering at the cold for a moment before he stood up completely naked. Rose’s eyes went over to his body, stopping everything she was doing and smiled, “Is that a gun, Arthur. Or are ya just happy to see me?”
He grabbed onto her pillow and threw it at her, “Awful giddy today, ain’t you?”
“Well Arthur, someone has to be.” She walked over to him and handed his clothes over, “Ain’t no fun when yer angry and sad lookin’ all the time.”
“That what you think of me?”
She stood on the tip of her toes and pressed her lips against his softly, “I think lots of things, Arthur. And they’re good. Now get dressed. Pretty sure Dutch is lookin’ for ya.”
“Bet he is.” Arthur chuckled and slipped on his clothing, “Turning into his damn errand boy.”
They both dressed, finally warm again. Arthur stopped her at the door to her cabin and pressed his lips against hers once more.
“Ya be careful out there, Arthur. God knows what Dutch has planned.”
“Said somethin’ ‘bout a train. Dutch always has a plan.”
Rose opened the door as Arthur went out first, her following after and walked with him over to Dutch’s cabin. Rose leaned against the wall as the boys talked out their plans to heist the train and as much as she loved the idea of robbing a rich prick. She wanted out of the mountains bad, more than she wanted money.
“Dutch—” she had to chime in, he looked over at her.
“Ms. Reeds, always something to say.” He motioned her to come over, “Now what can I do for you?”
She looked at the lot of them and then back at Dutch, “I’d like it if I could leave. Go and scout out that area Hosea was talkin’ ‘bout, outside of Valentine?”
“Can’t take the cold m’dear?” Dutch smirked.
“Leave the girl alone, I don’t blame her one bit for wanting to get out of here. We all do.”
“And I get that. However, I can go ahead. The snows let off and I’d be able to make it there. I can even take the girls. We can set up. For the most part.”
“Ain’t wantin’ to rob a train, eh? Knew you weren’t good for anything—” Micah laughed before Rose walked over and grabbed the smoke hanging from his mouth and placed it in her mouth. Micah grimaced at her, but then grabbed another smoke and lit it up.
“As much as I’d love to rob a rich prick. I ain’t wantin’ to waste no time in helpin’ make sure that everythin’s good for when y’all want to leave.” She took a puff, looking at Dutch, “And I’m sure them girls are tired of freezing their diddey’s off.”
Dutch laughed for a moment, “Sure are right there, Ms. Reeds.” He walked over to her, looking at her with soft eyes, his voice coming down to her level, “If let you do this. Does that mean you’ll be staying with us?”
Rose looked at him and smiled, “Course, unless there’s any objections to m’being here—”
“Keep stealing any more smokes, and there will be—” Micah glared at her.
“Oh Micah.” She patted the side of his face, smirking as she did, “Y’all soon grow to love me. They always do.”
Micah laughed, “highly doubt it.”
Hosea came over with the map, laying it down for Rose to see, Arthur came over and looked as well. “Called Horseshoe Overlook. It's east of here, there is a town nearby called Valentine. Good place.”
“At least a day’s trip. I can make it.” She looked to Dutch, “will ya let m’do it?” She looked over to Dutch, “It’ll be good for me and the girls. I can leave Ms.Grimshaw so ya’ll don’t bleed out n’ die.”
They all laughed out, Dutch placing his hand on her arm. The touch was warm and gentle, “That’s fine Ms. Reeds. Make sure ya’ll make it there safe and sound.”
Rose smiled as she pulled away from Dutch and the rest of them, “Wouldn’t let a damn thing happen to them, Dutch. Should know m’better than that.” She smirked and walked out of the cabin, heading over to talk with the girls about travelling in the morning.
When the morning came, Dutch and the boys began to head out to the train. Rose helped the girls out, packing their things into two of the wagons. Ms. Grimshaw seemed mighty bitter about being left behind.
“Ms. Grimshaw, it ain’t personal. Besides, Abagail is stayin’ behind with ya.” Rose grabbed onto a few things and threw them into the wagon, “As I said to the boys, it’s so they don’t bleed out and shit. You have a better chance of not lettin’ that happen.”
She groaned and nodded her head, “Well, I ain’t gonna argue with you Ms. Reeds...Be careful is all I can ask.”
Karen, Tilly, Mary and Sadie all crawled into the wagon, “Let’s GO! Ready to leave this place.” Karen yelled out as Rose made her way over and climbed up onto the seat.
Karen smiled, “Hope you like company, doll.”
“Hoping that the weather holds up.” She whispered to herself and grabbed onto the reins, “Hi-ah!” she whipped the reins as the horses began to move slowly, “One more thing, Ms. Grimshaw!”
“What, Ms. Reeds?” she yelled out.
“Tell Arthur I’m mighty sorry ‘bout stealing his smokes. I’m sure he’ll be wonderin’ what happened to ‘em.”
Ms. Grimshaw rolled her eyes and waved her hand, “You better take care of m’girls. Or else.”
“I know, Ms.Grimshaw.” Rose pulled out a smoke and lit it up leaving it dangling in her mouth as spoke again, “Cause ya’ll shoot me if I don’t...” She whispered to herself as they travelled through the snowy pathway towards the main road. Karen leaned over, starting to chat up a storm and only about one thing.
“So, see you and Arthur have been mighty sweet on each other as of late—”
“If this is all you’re gonna be on ‘bout for the whole ride, then I be shuttin’ up now.” Rose took a puff of her smoke, “Why ya wanna know ‘bout that anyhow?”
Karen laughed and bundled up a bit more. The snow may have died down but, the wind was pretty nippy. “ ‘Cause Arthur wouldn’t stop bitchin’ and moanin’ ‘bout you leaving him at the motel. With nothin’ but a hat to cover the poor sod.” Karen bent over in laughter.
Rose smiled and laughed, “That was a mighty fine day, indeed! Couldn’t help it. It wasn’t meant to hurt him, just playing a real shit joke.”
“And yet here you are.”
They travelled through the snow, slowly watching as it died off, “I was ‘round when Dutch and them got together. I didn’t stay though. Was me and Agatha after that, before Colm got her...”
Karen nodded her head, “I’m real sorry, Rose. Ain’t easy losing family. But you got us now. And I say we’re a pretty good one.”
“Ya have yer moments, Karen. Guess everyone does. Come on, got a long road ahead of us.”